MCC Daily Tribune
Three Students Selected for Transitional Studies Scholarships
On behalf of the Developmental Education Council, we are pleased to announce the recipients of the two scholarships (three individual awards) focused on developmental education and were formally part of the Transitional Studies Program.
Benarta “Bonnie” Glickman Memorial Endowed Scholarship: Andres Palma
Andres Palma has demonstrated exceptional grit and courage in life, overcoming multiple obstacles. Coming to the United States from Honduras at ten years old, Andres attended a large school where he fell through the cracks, and the academic system overlooked the weight of his unstable home life. He served five years in the Army, with a deployment in Afghanistan, and has focused on building a life with his wife. Having worked at a school for students with special needs and as a crisis intervener, he has realized his true calling: to become a teacher. Andres says, "My aspiration is not only to teach academic content, but also to create a safe, supportive environment where students feel seen and valued. By becoming a teacher, I hope to break cycles, open doors, and inspire students to believe in themselves and what they can achieve."
Deborah Sak Memorial Endowed Scholarship: Darrin Singleton and Uconda Perry
As a single father of two children, Darrin Singleton juggles the demands of school, parenting, and his role as a Residential Associate at Catholic Charities. In the summer of 2018, Darrin lost his younger brother, first cousin, and uncle in a local slaying. "I’ve been on my own, fighting to better our lives ever since," says Darrin. In his work life, he is in training to be a counselor, and at MCC he is set to earn his degree as a drug and alcohol counselor. Darrin Singleton is a true asset to MCC and the larger community. He says, "This may be my purpose in life--to be a light in any human’s dark time in life."
Unconda Perry is a single mother of eleven children, three grandchildren, a cancer survivor in remission, and a full-time student. Unconda has leveraged her multiple life challenges and her faith to foster a fierce determination to move forward in life for the sake of her family. Currently, Uconda is completing a capstone project focused on trauma-informed care for Black families in the education system. Uconda is clear about her purpose in life and in school when she says, "My passion lies in helping children and families access supportive, safe environments that foster healing and growth. I want to use my education to advocate for families who have experienced hardship and to bring more understanding and compassion into schools and communities."
Thank you to the more than 150 students who applied for these awards.
Sincerely,
Eric Berg and Judi Salsburg Taylor, Co-chairs, Developmental Education Council
Judi Salsburg Taylor
English and Philosophy
05/06/2026