NORTH EAST, MD — Cecil College student Crystal Kalbaugh has been named a 2026 New Century Workforce Pathway Scholar by Phi Theta Kappa, an honor recognizing academic achievement, leadership, and service among students at two-year colleges.
Kalbaugh will represent Maryland in the national scholarship program, which selects one student from each state, according to Cecil College.
The scholarship program is sponsored by the Coca-Cola Foundation with additional support from Phi Theta Kappa, and recipients receive a $1,500 award. Kalbaugh will be recognized at the College Presidents and New Century Scholars Recognition Luncheon scheduled for March 27 in Baltimore.
“Being named a 2026 New Century Workforce Scholar is both humbling and empowering,” Kalbaugh said. “Receiving this honor shows that it is never too late to pursue your goals.”
Kalbaugh, an Elkton resident, is pursuing an Applied Associate of Science degree in Bioproduction along with a certificate in biological lab skills at Cecil College. She is also working toward professional certifications while employed in a quality laboratory.
She expects to graduate from Cecil College in May 2026 and has said she plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in the future.
Kalbaugh recently completed an internship with the National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL) in Delaware, where she gained laboratory experience through training programs focused on biotechnology and quality science.
Dr. Benjamin Rohe, professor of biology at Cecil College, said Kalbaugh distinguished herself in the school’s bioproduction program through laboratory skills and leadership in collaborative projects.
The New Century Workforce Pathway Scholarship supports students at associate degree-granting institutions who plan to enter the workforce after completing their degree or certificate. More than 2,300 students from nearly 1,400 college campuses were nominated for the scholarship this year.
Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society for students at two-year colleges, recognizes academic achievement and promotes leadership, service, and professional development opportunities for its members.
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