Two Westwood College Students Recognized in CACCS “Student of the Year” Awards

DENVER--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Two students from Westwood College’s Denver campuses have been recognized by the Colorado Association of Career Colleges and Schools’ (CACCS) 2012 “Student of the Year” program. The students, Denise Gray and Don Heflin, were honored in a ceremony that took place Sept. 7, 2012.

“We are tremendously proud of Denise and Don, and congratulate them both on this honor.”

Gray, a student in the Criminal Justice program at Westwood’s Denver South campus, was named the Student of the Year by CACCS in the Specialized Trades category. She was nominated because of her tenacity and perseverance. Having battled polio at a young age, and as a woman of color in the 1960s, Gray was unable to achieve her dream of becoming a police officer. But today, as a grandmother of three, Gray is on her way to making that dream a reality. Her path also included working as a medical transcriptionist for 25 years. Gray is an example and positive influence for other students, as she arrives early to class and stays late, and frequently incites thoughtful discussion – whether in the classroom or out – always encouraging her fellow students to strive for excellence.

Heflin, a student from Westwood’s Denver North campus, is receiving Meritorious Recognition in the same category. Heflin was recognized for being a “take-charge person,” whose leadership qualities resulted in his being named President of the college’s Criminal Justice Club. In his first month in that role, Heflin has developed fundraising events that not only bring students together within the organization, but also give back to the community. His dedication to his education is proven by the fact that he has been on the President’s List each term, all while he is working outside of school and taking care of his family.

“These two students demonstrate exactly what it takes to be successful in any learning institution. They are committed to their education and are going above and beyond, working hard to obtain a degree that will ultimately work hard for them,” said Dean Gouin, CEO of Westwood College. “We are tremendously proud of Denise and Don, and congratulate them both on this honor.”

About Westwood College

Westwood College is an institution of higher learning with 14 campuses located in California, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois and Virginia. Westwood offers a hands-on, career-focused curriculum in fields such as healthcare, technology and business. Westwood is nationally accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS). A 2012 survey conducted by Noel-Levitz showed Westwood students are significantly more satisfied than the comparison group of approximately 125 public and private colleges, particularly in the areas of course content, quality of instruction and the school meeting their career goals. For more information, visit http://www.westwood.edu.