Submitted by South Puget Sound Community College
Two students from South Puget Sound Community College (SPSCC) were awarded a $1,000 scholarship at the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. virtual event on January 19, 2021. Desirée Toliver and Torin Tinnin were honored by The Thurston Group of Washington State for their success in academics at SPSCC and beyond that aligns with the values of The Thurston Group.
Desirée Toliver returned to school after a ten year break from formal education. Her wish to provide a better life for her daughter drives Desirée to not only attend school, but to pursue academic excellence. Desirée has made the Vice President’s list three times and is a member of the Phi Theta Kappa national honor society. After she graduates from SPSCC, she plans to move on to a four-year university to continue her education.
Torin Tinnin is a 27 year old student-athlete on the men’s basketball team. Torin is a new father juggling school and work. Torin plans to earn a business degree and open a small profitable business to support his family. Beating the odds and overcoming adversity are two things that help him stay motivated on his path to success.
Desirée and Torin are both in SPSCC’s Black Scholars program, which helps Black and African American students get through college and graduate. Students in the program receive professional and peer mentorship, an academic advisor, and an entire community committed to helping students succeed.
To support Black Scholars and other diversity & equity programs at SPSCC, you can give at the SPSCC website.
