Minnesota West’s Willow Hoff Named 2026 Coca-Cola Academic Team Scholar

Canby, Minn. — Minnesota West proudly announces that Willow Hoff, a Canby Campus student, has been named a 2026 Coca-Cola Academic Team Scholar. Hoff will receive a $1,300 scholarship and a commemorative medallion in recognition of her exceptional academic excellence, leadership, and service.

The Coca-Cola Academic Team Scholar Award, sponsored by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation and administered by Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), recognizes high‑achieving students who excel in the classroom and contribute meaningfully to their campuses and communities. Nearly $200,000 in scholarships is awarded annually through the program.

“The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation has a long history of providing financial assistance to outstanding students at community colleges,” said Jane Hale Paulsen, President of the Foundation. “We are proud to partner with Phi Theta Kappa to make it possible for more deserving students to achieve their educational goals and support tomorrow’s global community leaders.”

Hoff was nominated by Phi Theta Kappa Advisor Tyler Wadzinski, who oversees nominations for the Alpha Nu Kappa Chapter, representing every Minnesota West location. As the college’s official PTK All-USA Nominator, Wadzinski evaluates applicants for All-Minnesota Academic Team honors, All-USA Academic Team honors, and multiple PTK-administered national scholarships.

While each Minnesota West campus may nominate up to four students, two in transfer programs and two in workforce programs, the distinction is highly competitive.

“When there are more than two qualifying students in a category, I nominate the individuals who demonstrate the strongest academic excellence, intellectual rigor, leadership, and service beyond the classroom,” Wadzinski explained.

Students must take the initiative to apply themselves; only completed applications are considered. Each year, Minnesota West typically sees 5-10 PTK scholarship applicants, making Willow’s selection even more notable.

Wadzinski emphasized just how meaningful Hoff’s achievement is:

“I am incredibly proud of Willow! Being selected for this national award is an impressive accomplishment, especially in light of the many other strong applicants from Minnesota West. I’m grateful that Phi Theta Kappa provides opportunities such as the Coca-Cola Academic Team for our highest-achieving students to be celebrated for their achievements in the classroom, in sports and extracurricular activities, and in our communities.”

PTK’s evaluation process weighs more than academics. Nominees are assessed holistically, with added emphasis on personal integrity, ambition, courage, and commitment to service.

“Applicants are often among the most ambitious and accomplished PTK members,” Wadzinski said. “Ultimately, students who are nominated for PTK recognition serve as exemplary role models and leaders among their peers and in our communities.”

Coca-Cola Academic Team Scholars are traditionally celebrated across the country through state-level PTK All-State Academic Team ceremonies. Scholars who have not yet received their commemorative medallions will be presented with them soon or have them mailed directly.

In addition, every 2026 Coca-Cola Academic Team Scholar, including Hoff, will be recognized on stage during the Parade of Scholars at PTK Catalyst 2026, the international PTK convention held March 26-28 in Baltimore, Maryland.

Hoff will also represent Minnesota West as a member of the 2025-2026 All-Minnesota Academic Team, alongside Minnesota West students Reagan Christians and Kenia Sebastian. All three will be honored during the statewide recognition event in Minneapolis on April 17, receiving medals, certificates, and inclusion in the official program.

Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner, President and CEO of Phi Theta Kappa, highlighted the impact of the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation’s continued partnership:

“We thank the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation for recognizing these student leaders and for investing in their futures. Scholarships like these are integral to the success of these students in reaching their educational and career goals.”

For Minnesota West, Hoff’s selection reflects both the strength of its students and the institution’s commitment to encouraging leadership, service, and academic excellence.