Cochise Newsroom

Sheila Wheeler, a student at Cochise College, has been named an Oberndorf Scholar by the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society and has received a $1,500 scholarship.

 

The Oberndorf Lifeline to Completion Scholarship helps Phi Theta Kappa members overcome unanticipated financial barriers preventing the completion of their first college credential, associate degree, or certificate. 

 

Wheeler, a business administration major, expressed gratitude for the scholarship, emphasizing its impact on continuing her academic journey.

 

"Being named an Oberndorf Scholar is an incredible honor," Wheeler said. "PTK has given me confidence and kept me engaged in college. I plan to use the scholarship for tuition, but the cost of continuing my education and transferring to a university continues to be a big concern. I’m truly grateful for this scholarship."

 

The scholarship is named for its benefactors, Rosemary and Lou Oberndorf. Lou co-founded METI, a world leader in medical education technology whose products are used in many community colleges as well as in the world’s leading medical schools. He is a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation Board of Trustees. 

 

Up to 15 Oberndorf Lifeline to Completion Scholarships are awarded annually. 

 

“Without a doubt, the Oberndorf Scholarship has a tremendous impact on the lives of these hard-working, high-achieving students, making it possible for them to complete their associate degrees,” said Amanda Gorman, Interim Executive Director of the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation. 

 

“We are grateful to the Oberndorf family for their commitment to helping students achieve their educational goals. Congratulations to all of the scholarship recipients!”