The 2026 honor graduates from the Helena Campus of Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas (PCCUA) were recognized during a special reception ahead of commencement on Friday, May 15. These students achieved a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher, reflecting their dedication, hard work, and academic excellence throughout their college careers.
Honor graduates include:
From Bartlett,TN: Mariah Koss
From Helena: Wesley Barringer, Najah Collins, Alyssa Elliot, Dalton Mabry, Adriauna Mayfield, J’Nyah Walker
From Holly Grove: Toni Henderson
From Lexa: Stephanie Dunigan
From Marianna: JaBari Booth
From Marvell: MaKayla Booth
From Poplar Grove: Tamera Carruth, Shakira Zachary
From West Helena: Chelsea Camp, Hannah Gates, Qua’Neisha Hawkins, Gracie Pryor, Taylor Smith, Ku’Mauri Washington, Avery White
In addition to celebrating honor graduates, PCCUA proudly recognized five students as Outstanding Students of the Year for their academic excellence, leadership, and meaningful contributions to the PCCUA community.
Shanita Cannon – Allied Health (ADN)
Shanita Cannon is recognized for her resilience, leadership, and meaningful contributions to the nursing program. As a single mother balancing work and school, she has remained dedicated to her education while inspiring those around her with her perseverance and compassion.
Tashanderlyn “Shan” English – Allied Health (MLT)
Tashanderlyn “Shan” English is being honored for her exceptional dedication, professionalism, and strong performance in the Medical Laboratory Technology program. Her positive attitude, collaborative spirit, and passion for learning have made her a standout student and future healthcare professional.
Korshaune Henry – Applied Technology
Korshaune Henry is recognized for his outstanding work ethic, leadership, and commitment to excellence in the Applied Technology division. His dedication, professionalism, and impressive industry credentials have made him a respected leader among his peers.
Qua’NeishaHawkins – Arts and Sciences
Qua’Neisha Hawkins is celebrated for her determination, academic excellence, and perseverance. While balancing family responsibilities, work, and her studies, she has remained committed to building a brighter future for herself and her family.
Felicia Manning – Business and Information Systems
Felicia Manning is being recognized for her exceptional dedication, reliability, and strong work ethic. While balancing academics, employment, caregiving responsibilities, and an internship, she has consistently demonstrated perseverance and a commitment to success.
Outstanding Students (left to right): Felicia Manning, Shanita Cannon, Tashanderlyn English, Qua'Neisha Hawkins, and Korshaune Henry.
Special recognition was also given to 2026 Academic All-Star Scholarship recipient Ku’Mauri Washington.
Academic All-Star: Ku'Mauri Washington.
Graduating student-athletes from both the PCCUA men’s and women’s basketball teams were also recognized for their dedication, perseverance, and achievements as they balanced the demands of academics and athletics while preparing for their next chapter.
From Bartlett,TN: Mariah Koss
From Brinkley: Mitchell Hicks Jr.,
From Columbus,MS: Jeremiah Aaron
From Holly Grove: Toni Henderson
From Keiser: Zakiyah Brownlee
From Olive Branch, MS: Jaiden Brunson
From Poplar Grove: Dekylon Arnold
Graduating Student-Athletes (left to right): Mariah Koss, Toni Henderson, Mitchell Hicks Jr., Dekylon Arnold, Jaiden Brunson, and Jeremiah Aaron.
PCCUA is proud to recognize these students, whose dedication to excellence reflects the college’s mission to foster achievement, leadership, and lifelong learning.
