J. F. Ingram State Technical College students Dillon Lee and James Wells, III have been named to the 2022 All-Alabama Academic team. The award recognizes academic excellence, leadership, and service. The students will each receive a scholarship in the amount of $1,000 to the college or university of their choice.

Lee and Wells were nominated for the awards by Beta Psi Gamma, the Ingram chapter of Phi Theta Kappa national honor society. Phi Theta Kappa, USA Today news organization, and the American Association of Community Colleges sponsor a national All-USA Academic Team program.

Both students are member of Beta Psi Gamma and take an active role in college life. Wells, who will graduate from the Diesel Mechanics program in May, works with college staff to recruit new students. “I encourage them to enroll and take the first step on their journey to success.” Asked about goals for the future Wells said he plans to continue his education, ultimately becoming a mechanical engineer.

Lee tutors other students in math and English and participates in the Ingram Ambassador program. As an Ingram Ambassador he has assisted with campus tours for a variety of visitors, including representatives from the Governor’s office and the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles. Lee plans to use the skills he has learned in Ingram’s logistics program to start his own business. “I learned about being a freight broker from my instructor, Mr. Holloway,” he explained. “It’s a career that will let me provide a future for my family and still maintain a good work-life balance.”

Ingram president Annette Funderburk congratulated Wells and Lee on their accomplishments, “We could not be recognizing two more outstanding students,” she said. “Whether they are building their own skills, setting an example to other students, or welcoming visitors, James and Dillon consistently represent what is best about Ingram State and embody our mission of developing responsible citizens.”