2026 Outstanding Students

Maria Eduarda dos Passos de Souza

Allied Health & Sciences Division

Maria Eduarda dos Passos de Souza has been selected as the Outstanding Student in the Allied Health and Sciences Division. She is graduating with an Associate of Arts.

She is the daughter of Wanderley Ribeiro de Souza Jr. and Adriana dos Passos de Souza. Maria Eduarda is 2023 graduate of La Salle Águas Claras and is from Brasilia, Brazil.

While she has been a prominent student-athlete on the volleyball team, Maria Eduarda has set herself apart as a scholar first. She is known for her collaborative spirit and her ability to consistently earn top scores on rigorous science exams. Her instructor, Danielle Mueller, lauded Maria Eduarda’s dedication to her studies, stating, “Maria Eduarda is an excellent science student.” Her disciplined approach in the laboratory and classroom serves as the foundation for her success, setting a high standard for her peers.

This same discipline also extends to the court, where she was a key component in MAC Volleyball’s successful 2025 season. Her leadership and athleticism helped propel the team to a ninth-place finish at the National Tournament, marking one of the program’s most successful runs.

Reflecting on her time at MAC, Maria Eduarda said she’s enjoyed the atmosphere and the great instructors and staff. As an international student, she’s found lots of support and a kind community.

Maria Eduarda will continue her volleyball career at Grand View University in Iowa, where she will pursue a degree in Physical Therapy, aiming to turn her passion for athletics and science into a career helping others.

Madalyn Henson

Arts and Communications Division

Madalyn Henson is the Outstanding Student in the Arts and Communications Division. She is graduating with an Associate of Arts in Art.

Madalyn is the daughter of Kristin and Jeremy Henson. She graduated from North County High School in 2024.

Art Instructor Abril Warner says that Madalyn is an academic leader in her art classes. She notes that Madalyn never missed a single slideshow identification throughout her three Art History courses—an extremely rare achievement! Her artwork has been recognized in the department’s annual juried art show, and she is well-respected by both peers and instructors.

Beyond her strong academic record, Madalyn was deeply engaged in the art community at MAC, serving as Vice President of the Art Club, a recipient of an Art Scholarship, a work-study student, and a dedicated volunteer for the department, the Mineral Area Council on the Arts (MACOA), and Mineral Area Fine Arts Academy (MAFAA). She co-designed and edited a calendar and Christmas cards to fundraise for the study abroad trip, and was recently chosen to create a template for a MAC CommUNITY Committee event.

Madalyn said she’s had a very positive experience with the MAC Art Department and Art Club, “I have been met with so much kindness and openness with the members of the art community. They all have helped me to be a more open and positive person.”

As a first-generation college student, she is proud to be accomplishing her goal of completing an associate degree and would like to continue her art education by pursuing a bachelor’s degree. Madalyn’s ultimate goal is to have a career centered in art, possibly as a tattoo artist.

Ava Penuel

Athletics

Ava Penuel is the Outstanding Student in Athletics. She is graduating with an Associate of Arts in Teaching.

A 2024 graduate of Fredericktown High School, she is the daughter of Chuck and Jennifer Penuel.

Ava was an integral part of MAC Volleyball’s highly successful 2025 season, which was capped off with a ninth-place finish at the National Tournament. As libero, she anchored the team’s defense, appearing in 33 matches and recording a team-high 453 digs (4.04 per set). She also contributed significantly to the Cardinals’ transition game with 91 assists and 35 service aces while maintaining a .950 reception percentage.

Her coaches say Ava goes above and beyond for her peers and always pushes those around her to be better. She’s been a great friend and a strong support to the international students on the team, always the first to step up when they need help.

The first in the gym and last to leave, Ava’s character shines through in all she does. She’s active in the community as well, passing what she’s learned as a college player along to future athletes by coaching a local 14’s club team.

“She is exactly what being a MAC Cardinal is all about,” Coach Tim Copeland said.

Ava excelled in the classroom, too, and said all the professors were very welcoming. Two of her favorites were Megan Wilson and Jennifer Sikes, who were “great with building relationships with all students.”

Ava’s next step is Benedictine College, where she will continue playing volleyball while completing her degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Physical Education.

Ian Sales

Business, Computers, and Math Division

Ian Sales is the recipient of the Outstanding Student Award for the Business, Computers, and Math Division. He is receiving an Associate of Arts.

A 2024 graduate of Farmington High School, he is the son of Erin Sales.

Ian’s business instructors nominated him in recognition of his academic excellence, leadership, and exceptional work ethic. He has excelled in the classroom, earning Dean’s List recognition and inclusion in the National Society of Leadership and Success. What truly distinguishes Ian, however, is his character. He is respectful, motivated, and consistently strives to improve himself both academically and personally. He approaches challenges with maturity, critical thinking, and a strong sense of responsibility, making him the type of student who not only works hard for his own success but also contributes positively to the environment around him.

Beyond the classroom, Ian has been a standout member of FBLA Collegiate. His dedication to his field was on display this spring at the state competition, where his performance qualified him to represent the college as a competitor at this summer’s FBLA Collegiate National Leadership Conference in Las Vegas.

During his time at MAC, Ian has served as the manager for the women’s basketball team and has found support from Coach Shephard, among others, on campus. He is deeply thankful to everyone who helped him excel, checked in on him, or pushed him to truly master complex topics.

Ian’s next step will be to continue his business studies at Missouri State University, where he will major in finance/corporate and investments.

Shelby Kennedy

Concurrent Enrollment

Shelby Kennedy has been named the Concurrent Enrollment Outstanding Student. This week, she is graduating from MAC with both an Associate of Arts and an Associate of Arts in Teaching, and from Fredericktown High School with her high school diploma.

She is the daughter of Natasha and Casey Kennedy.

In her junior year of high school, Shelby joined the Mineral Area Youth Apprenticeship program, which allowed her to work alongside an educator and experience the teaching profession. She said the program, a “grow-your-own” initiative to streamline the pathway from high school to fully credentialed teaching positions, helped her tremendously.

Shelby has earned respect from faculty and staff who say that her work ethic is stellar. She balanced a lot with her high school and college classes, the apprenticeship, and a job (at one point, three jobs!) to fund her tuition.

When reflecting on her experiences, she said she has loved being a MAC student, especially Dr. Young’s Teaching Profession with Field Experience evening course, “He made that class go by so fast, while still teaching some pretty amazing things.”

She’ll take advantage of the jump start she’s gotten by continuing her education online with Central Methodist University. After completing her bachelor’s in secondary education and securing a teaching position, she’ll begin her work on a master’s degree and eventually a doctorate.

Luke Powell

Human Services Division

Luke Powell is the Outstanding Student for the Human Services Division. He is graduating with an Associate of Arts in Teaching.

Luke is a 2024 graduate of Northwest High School in Cedar Hill, Missouri, and is the son of Becky Powell and Jonathan Powell.

Dr. Shawn Young, Education Program Coordinator and Professor, says Luke is very deserving of this recognition, noting that he has distinguished himself as one of the most capable and naturally gifted students in the program. Luke’s command of content and depth of knowledge in secondary social studies truly set him apart from his peers. Beyond his academic aptitude, Dr. Young highlights Luke as an exceptional collaborator who naturally steps into leadership roles during class projects without ever overshadowing his classmates. He is consistently diligent, ensuring his work is completed to a high standard of excellence that reflects his genuine passion for the field of education.

Outside of the classroom, Luke balanced his rigorous studies with his commitments as a student-athlete, competing as a member of the MAC Track and Field team. During his time on campus, he deeply enjoyed his coursework with Dr. Young, Ellen Miller, and Rodney Wilson. He credits these instructors with making their classes engaging and providing him with the valuable tools he will carry into his own future classroom. He is thankful for their ability to explain complex material clearly while fostering an environment that encourages academic curiosity.

He will continue his education to earn a bachelor’s degree in secondary social studies. Ultimately, Luke would like to become a high school history teacher and “help students understand the importance of history while building strong, supportive relationships that encourage learning and growth.”

Olivia Shaw

Industry and Technology Division

Olivia Shaw has been chosen as the Outstanding Student for the Industry and Technology Division. She is graduating with an Associate of Arts and an Advanced Multi-Process Welding Certificate.

She is the daughter of John and Cindy Shaw and is a 2024 graduate of Montgomery County R-II High School in Montgomery City, Missouri.

Welding Instructor Nate Ellett notes that Olivia consistently distinguishes herself through a rare balance of academic excellence and technical mastery. Whether engaging with theory or perfecting a bead in the lab, her approach is defined by an unwavering focus and a drive for high-quality results. Beyond her individual achievements, Olivia stands out as a natural leader who frequently takes the initiative to mentor fellow students, fostering a collaborative and productive environment for everyone in the program.

These leadership qualities are just as evident on the court. As a captain of the MAC volleyball team, Olivia was a vital component of the 2025 roster, leading her teammates to a ninth-place finish at the National Tournament. Whether she is guiding a peer through a difficult technique in the lab or rallying her team during a national run, Olivia exemplifies the dedication and character required of a true student-athlete.

Reflecting on her time at MAC, she says she’s had great experiences with every instructor and class she’s taken. Olivia will continue her volleyball career next year at Lander University in South Carolina where she’ll complete a bachelor’s in business management. In the future, she hopes to combine her welding and business skills to open her own company.

Kelcie Bunch

Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Division

Kelcie Bunch has been selected as the Outstanding Student for the Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Division. She is graduating with an Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice and from the MAC Law Enforcement Academy, Class #26-113.

Throughout her time at MAC, Kelcie has demonstrated strong dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to personal and professional growth.

Kelcie earned her GED from Arcadia Valley before continuing her education at MAC. She is married to Kaitlin Roseanau. Kelcie is the proud mother of Everleigh Bunch, and the granddaughter of Bridget Madden and William Madden.

Kelcie has consistently demonstrated initiative, accountability, and a willingness to support her fellow recruits. Her instructors describe her as driven, resilient, and eager to learn, noting her ability to apply knowledge gained in training to real-world situations.

Kelcie says, “The most valuable part of my experience at MAC has been the knowledge and skills I’ve developed over the past three years, which have helped prepare me for a career in law enforcement.”

She’s gone above and beyond by completing additional training in hazardous materials emergency response, further demonstrating her commitment to the profession. Kelcie also served as Vice President of her class and has excelled as both a leader and problem-solver.

Following graduation, Kelcie plans to pursue a career with a police department while continuing her education to earn a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. She also intends to volunteer in firefighting, further serving her community.

Her instructors are confident that Kelcie will make a meaningful impact in law enforcement and continue to serve as a positive example for future academy graduates.

Nyah Parker

Leadership and Campus Service

Nyah Parker has been chosen as an Outstanding Student in Leadership and Campus Service. She is graduating with an Associate of Arts in Art.

The daughter of Toshia Parker and James Parker, she is a 2024 graduate of Farmington Senior High School.

Nyah’s influence extended across MAC’s academic and artistic communities. She has been deeply engaged in campus life as an active member of EXCEL, President of the MAC Art Club, and a student worker.

As Art Club President, Nyah set agendas for weekly meetings and designed activities to foster participation and community. She organized and worked tables at events such as Homecoming and Club Days, and served on the student panel during the Q&A session during Fine Arts Day.

Nyah exemplified servant leadership as a student worker, reliably completing daily responsibilities while managing the needs of peers seeking supplies, feedback, or assistance in the studio, and empowering other students through her advice and generous support.

Art Instructor Abril Warner says Nyah was instrumental in fundraising efforts for this spring’s Study Abroad course. She organized a Trivia Night, and co-designed a calendar and Christmas cards to benefit the trip.

“Having met her own financial goals, she continued to lead independent fundraising initiatives in support of fellow travelers, demonstrating fierce loyalty and a leadership style rooted in action and service,” Warner said.

Nyah says all of the faculty have been kind and welcoming, but Ms. Warner “takes the cake,” providing a sense of belonging that she’d never felt before attending MAC.

Her future plans include transferring to the University of Missouri-St. Louis to complete a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art with a goal to have a career in storyboarding, animation, and illustration.

Carly Saunders

Leadership and Campus Service

Carly Saunders has been chosen as an Outstanding Student in Leadership and Campus Service. She is graduating with an Associate of Science in Nursing.

A 2024 graduate of Potosi High School, she is the daughter of Reggie Saunders and Sandy Saunders.

Carly has been active in many campus activities at MAC, including MAC Cheerleading, National Society of Leadership and Success as President, and Student Nurse Organization as Historian, but she was nominated especially for her leadership with the Lambda Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, the honor society for two-year colleges.

As Lambda Chapter President, she led new-member recruiting efforts, was instrumental in the chapter’s perfect 5-Star Rating in 2025, and pitched the student lounge campus project to Administration. She also served as Chapter and Regional Delegate for Hallmark Awards and as Voting Delegate.

Carly also served as the Heartland Regional Vice President for Phi Theta Kappa, the first time MAC has had a regional-level representative in more than 10 years. This position required additional time and leadership to plan the region’s fall and spring conferences, attended by PTK chapters from throughout the Midwest. Through the experience, she collaborated with other student leaders from community colleges across the United States.

Carly says her involvement in activities and organizations at MAC has helped shape her character and develop her leadership skills.

“The relationships I have built as well as the lessons I have learned will be carried with me onto the next stage of my journey,” she added.

After graduation, Carly plans to become an emergency room nurse. She’ll continue her education by pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Central Methodist University.