You Matter Here

Development and Recognition


 

Recognition Opportunities

The 1st Annual Legacy of Leaders: Student Recognition Ceremony took place on April 17, 2025, at the Rio Grande Campus – Center for Government and Civic Service (CGCS). This event honored and celebrated students who exemplified leadership, service, and dedication across Student Life and campus-wide initiatives. Students were recognized for their contributions to student organizations, volunteerism, governance, academic excellence, leadership programs, and upcoming graduation. The evening featured awards, a pinning ceremony, the signing of the legacy banner, and a celebratory reception to recognize our future and current student leaders. We are proud to celebrate the achievements of our Legacy Leaders and look forward to continuing this new tradition in 2026.

 

The Amazing Race: Riverbat Edition

Student Life’s inaugural Amazing Race: Riverbat Edition was a huge success! Over three action-packed days, 12 teams of ACC students raced across campuses and tackled exciting challenges that introduced them to new programs and campuses. With generous prizes and local business donations, our student participants gave it their all.

Bat Chats

Bat Chats are thrilling and interactive student-led speaker sessions inspired by TED Talks! These unique events allow you to join your fellow students in engaging discussions on topics that matter most to you. It’s a platform for meaningful conversations, self-improvement, leadership, and motivation.

Click here to explore our Host Highlights and discover the inspiring topics and stories from our past Bat Chats hosts!

Host: Zoila Walston
Major: Liberal Arts
Topic: “Ambition Without Exhaustion: Balance vs. Rhythm”
Description: High-achieving students often struggle with burnout and perfectionism, constantly chasing success while trying to maintain balance. But what if balance isn’t the answer? Zoila challenged the balance myth and introduced a rhythm-based approach to sustaining ambition without exhaustion. Participants learned how to break free from toxic hustle culture, manage perfectionism, and develop sustainable habits that support achievement and well-being so you can keep striving without sacrificing yourself.

 

Host: Samantha Bhuiyan
Major: Business
Topic: “Mental Health and Well-Being in the Digital Era”
Description: In an always-connected world, technology and social media play a major role in shaping mental health and well-being. Samantha explored how the digital era impacts stress, self-care, and overall wellness. Participants learned how to navigate the challenges of constant connectivity, set healthy boundaries, and use digital tools to support mental and emotional health.

 

Host: Jordan Shearer
Major: Liberal Arts
Topic: “Epic stories turn Disability into Ability”
Description: Jordan discussed the Epic of Sudaniana and how individuals can turn their own disabilities into abilities by using accommodations and tips and tricks to help them mend the gaps.

Host: Oliver Nite
Major: Radio-Television-Film & Audio Engineering
Topic: “IKIGAI: A Path to Wholeness”
Description: As the first-ever virtual Bat Chat host, Oliver guided students on an interactive journey to discover the keys to a longer, more fulfilling life. He explored the Japanese concept of IKIGAI (finding purpose) and the healthy habits of Blue Zones, regions known for longevity. By connecting these ideas, Oliver inspired his audience to create a life of purpose, joy, and well-being.

 

Host: Catherine Franco
Major: Electrical Engineering
Topic: “Perseverance: Turning Obstacles into Opportunities”
Description: Catherine shared her inspiring journey of overcoming challenges and redefining success through perseverance. She explored how resilience and determination can help navigate obstacles and achieve goals. Perhaps most impactful, she offered insights on taking control of your path, turning setbacks into growth, and transforming hurdles into achievements.

Host: Garrett Skupinski
Major: Creative Podcasting (Certificate Program)
Topic: “The Best You: Discovering Your Personal Brand & the Confidence Behind It.”
Description: Garrett shared their insights on self-discovery and personal branding, guiding the audience through the powerful connection between understanding your unique identity, refining your leadership style, and envisioning your future self. They inspired a transformative journey of self-awareness, empowerment, and unlocking your fullest potential.

 

Host: Mariama Mbacke
Major: Human Resources (Graduated)
Topic: “Finding Your “Why!”
Description: Mariama inspired the audience to uncover their “why” and explore the deeper meaning behind their goals. She highlighted how determination and ambition can drive success and shared practical insights to stay motivated and focused. Her Bat Chat encouraged students to embrace their unique journey and pursue a life of purpose and fulfillment.

 

Host: Juan Lerma
Major: Business
Topic: “Let’s Simplify Together: How to UNcomplicate the World.”
Description: Juan offered a fresh perspective on how we often over complicate life, overlooking the simple paths to happiness and peace. He led a thought-provoking conversation on cutting through unnecessary distractions and prioritizing well-being. Juan emphasized the importance of focusing on ourselves first, then extending that growth to help others, showing how this approach can lead to true happiness and fulfillment.

Host: Maritza Cruz
Major: Psychology
Topic: “Don’t stress about the stress. Let’s talk about it!”
Description: Maritza made history as the first-ever Bat Chats host, paving the way with a powerful discussion on managing stress in healthy and effective ways. She shared practical strategies and insights tailored to college students, sparking meaningful conversations about prioritizing well-being and building resilience in the face of challenges.