LBW Community College students Brandon Scott Walker and Peighton Carpenter will soon receive statewide recognition for exceptional academic achievement, distinguished leadership, and community service.

The two sophomores are named as 2018 All-Alabama Academic Team members with the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) and will be recognized by ACCS Chancellor Jimmy Baker and the Board of Trustees at a ceremony in April.

“These students represent the highest achievers of our college,” said Dr. Herb Riedel, LBWCC president. “We are extremely proud of what they have accomplished both in and out of the classroom. This is well-deserved recognition for them both.”

Walker, son of Rickie and Carmen Walker, is a history major with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 4.0. He will complete an Associate in Science Degree in May before transferring to Auburn University in Montgomery. He ultimately plans to earn a law degree.

“I chose history because it is a good prerequisite for law school. I find great interest in studying the past so that maybe I can learn more in the future,” he said.

“I plan to become a district attorney and serve 20 years in the Army National Guard. After serving my time in the courtroom and military, I plan to pursue a career in politics.”

Walker joined the Guard as a senior in high school and currently provides military funeral honors for U.S. veterans.

“I chose to attend LBW because of the opportunity to develop my leadership style, academics, and service before attending a university,” he said. “My sister, who was an ambassador at LBW for two years, explained the caring faculty, devoted instructors, and lower cost, which amplified my interests in attending LBW.”

Walker serves as LBWCC Ambassador, holds the office of president of leadership in the Alpha Beta Eta Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, president of the Student Veterans Military Association, president of Mu Alpha Theta honorary math society, and is a member of the Student Government Association (SGA).

“Being involved on campus allowed me to network, obtain new friendships, help others, and learn first-hand from my superiors,” he said.

The Brantley High School graduate said being named as a member of the All-Alabama Academic Team is overwhelming.

“In high school, I was not the most dedicated academic student,” he said, but that changed once he enrolled at LBW. “I became determined to do my absolute best in all aspects of life. For me to come from 14th in my high school class to the top portion of my college truly goes to show nothing is unattainable. With hard work and determination, one can become or do anything he/she sets their mind to do.”

He said he also recognizes his achievements were possible due to encouragement from others.

“Such an honor did not come through my work alone, it was countless others that invested time in my future that made this achievement possible. From the bottom of my heart, to everyone who helped me along the way, thank you.”

Peighton Carpenter, daughter of Todd Carpenter and Laura Rath, is a nursing major and holds a 3.8 GPA.

“I started LBW the summer after I graduated high school,” she said. “It was the best decision for me financially and was also an easy commute from my home.”

The 2016 Brantley High School graduate will complete an Associate in Science Degree in May and plans to transfer to Troy University to earn a four-year degree in nursing, and ultimately achieve a Master of Science Degree in Nursing to become a family nurse practitioner.

“I have always loved helping others and I believe there are opportunities for me through this career path.”

Carpenter maintained a high GPA while also working several jobs and being involved in various clubs and organizations on campus throughout her time at LBW.

In addition to providing tutoring at two LBWCC campus locations, she is also a member of the Honors Program, serves as president of the Alpha Beta Eta Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, and is a member of Mu Alpha Theta and SGA.

“Being involved on campus helped me make connections with fellow students and as a freshmen, it made me aware of my campus surroundings,” she said.

“It is humbling to be named a member of the All-Alabama Academic Team of 2018. I am honored and immensely grateful that all of the hard work and long hours put into my academics is being rewarded.”

The All-Alabama Academic Team recognition program was founded in 1995 to complement the All-USA National Academic Team Program sponsored by USA Today, Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, and the American Association of Community Colleges.