JCC Student Receives PTK Chime Scholars Foundation Award

Jefferson Community College (JCC) student, Kimberly S. Searles (on right) of Potsdam, has been named a 2026 Chime Workforce Scholar, joining 200 students nationwide recognized for their academic achievement and pursuit of career-focused education.

The Chime Workforce Scholarship, funded by the Chime Scholars Foundation and administered by the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Foundation, provides each scholar with $1,000 to help cover educational expenses while completing a certificate or associate degree that prepares them to enter the workforce in a high-demand field.

Jeni Izuel, president of the Chime Scholars Foundation says, “At the Chime Scholars Foundation, we believe that career and technical education opens doors to financial progress and long-term opportunity. We’re proud to support students who are working hard to gain in-demand skills and build better futures for themselves and their families.”

Searles, a mother of six, is pursuing a degree in Human Services at Jefferson while balancing the responsibilities of raising her family. As a participant in Jefferson’s Advancing Success in Associate Pathways (ASAP) program, she anticipates graduating from Jefferson in May 2027. Driven by a deep desire to help others, Searles hopes to become a Chemical Dependency Counselor, working directly with individuals facing addiction and guiding them through the recovery process. She is passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based support that helps people regain stability, restore hope, and feel understood during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.

Throughout her educational journey, Searles has found encouragement and inspiration in Jefferson’s supportive learning environment. Faculty mentorship and engaging coursework have strengthened her confidence, expanded her skills, and reinforced her commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

“Jefferson has given me a strong foundation for the career I’m working toward,” said Searles. “I am thankful to JCC for offering a flexible online learning experience that has allowed me to be present for my children while continuing to build a brighter future for my family and myself.”

Receiving this award is especially meaningful to Searles because it recognizes the determination and sacrifices that often accompany the pursuit of higher education as an adult learner and parent. Juggling coursework, family life, and everyday responsibilities has not always been easy, but she views this recognition as proof that hard work and perseverance can open new doors. She hopes her experience serves as encouragement to others who may be considering a return to school, reminding them that every step forward brings them closer to achieving their goals.

Amanda Karpinski Gorman, executive director of the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation said, "We are thrilled to launch this new program and award hardworking students with Chime Workforce Scholarships. These scholarships support students pursuing career and technical education at two-year colleges, and we look forward to seeing all they go on to accomplish."

Daniel J. Dupee, II, College President says, “Receiving the PTK Chime Scholars Foundation Award is a tremendous accomplishment and a reflection of Kimberly’s dedication to education and future success. We are proud to see our students recognized for their hard work and commitment to achieving their goals, and we congratulate Kimberly on this well-deserved honor.”

The Chime Workforce Scholarship supports students preparing for high-demand careers that strengthen their communities and local economies. By helping students complete their education and earn workforce credentials, the program helps create a stronger pipeline of skilled workers in fields where they are needed most.

About Jefferson Community College
Established on November 7, 1961, Jefferson Community College was the area’s first institution of higher education. Supervised by the State University of New York (SUNY), Jefferson offers more than 50 associate degrees, certificates and microcredentials for career preparation and transfer. The college also provides local access to bachelor’s and advanced degrees through partner institutions; lifelong learning through workshops and seminars; business and industry training; and community-based research. Jefferson’s state-of-the-art mechatronics labs provide hands-on learning opportunities in automation, electronics, hydraulics and mechanical systems to support workforce development in emerging industries. Through its Center for Community Studies, the college facilitates productive discussion of ideas and regional issues and provides cultural enrichment opportunities that serve the entire tri-county region, including Fort Drum’s military community. Jefferson, accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, serves approximately 3,400 students, many of whom are service members and their families.  

About Chime Scholars Foundation and Phi Theta Kappa Partnership
The Chime Scholars Foundation (CSF) is a nonprofit initiative launched by financial technology company Chime in 2022 to expand access to higher education by removing financial barriers for students from diverse backgrounds. It is funded through Chime’s 1% equity pledge, which commits millions of shares over time to support scholarships. CSF provides up to $20,000 in renewable scholarships to students pursuing degrees, certificates, vocational training, or other higher education pathways. Scholars can be traditional or non‑traditional students, including parents, full‑time workers, and returning learners. The program has awarded nearly $10 million to about 1,500 students since 2022. Phi Theta Kappa is the first honor society recognizing the academic achievement of students at associate degree-granting colleges and helping them to grow as scholars and leaders. The Society is made up of more than 4.4 million members and nearly 1,250 chapters in 11 countries, with approximately 220,000 active members in the nation’s colleges.