Phillip Brooks, of Eden has been selected as the 2014 Academic Excellence Award recipient for Rockingham Community College. Brooks, whose academic average is currently a 4.0, is on track to earn an Associate in Science in computer information technology this summer. Each year one student is chosen at each of the state's 58 community colleges to receive the prestigious award.
“I am appreciative of my work being recognized and that means a lot,” said Brooks. “If I don't make 100 on an assignment, I want to understand how to succeed the next time.”

When nominating Brooks for the honor, Computer Information Technology Department Chair, Diane Dalton, wrote, “Phillip is an exceptional student who strives for 100% on all assignments and tests, not just the grade of A. He analyzes how lessons can be applied in a real-world situation.”

Dalton describes Brooks as the go-to person in the classroom who leads study groups where students help each other understand concepts.

After graduation, Brooks plans to seek employment and pursue a bachelor's degree. In addition to his academic commitments, Brooks is married and has six young daughters.