Kara Price, a Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society member at Martin Community College, received a $1,300 Coca-Cola Academic Team scholarship for 2026.
Throughout high school, Price engaged in extensive academic and extracurricular pursuits. She led the percussion section in Bear Grass Charter School's Marching Band, which earned a superior rating at the Music Performance Adjudication competition. She competed on the women's tennis team for four years, finishing her senior season as first seed and team captain, advancing to the 1A individual doubles state tournament.
Beyond athletics and music, Price participated in the Student Government Association, Math Team, and Battle of the Books. She held memberships in Beta Club and National Honor Society. She intends to study Chemistry at East Carolina University before pursuing a pharmacy doctorate.
As a Phi Theta Kappa member, Price maintained a 3.5+ cumulative GPA across minimum 12 semester hours, demonstrating academic excellence and leadership recognized by faculty.
College President Dr. Tabitha R. Miller stated: "Kara Price stands as a powerful example of what authentic leadership looks like: vision grounded in purpose, service rooted in compassion, and excellence achieved through hard work and integrity."
The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation president noted they partner with Phi Theta Kappa to support deserving community college students. Selections depend on academic achievement, leadership, and community service engagement. Scholars receive recognition at local, state, and international ceremonies during Phi Theta Kappa's annual convention.
The foundation sponsors nearly $200,000 in annual scholarships, providing each scholar a commemorative medallion.