Riverside City College Honors Academic Excellence at First-Ever Scholar Squad Celebration

Jan 19, 2026
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Riverside City College Athletics will recognize the academic achievements of its student-athletes during the First Annual Scholar Squad Celebration, taking place Wednesday, January 28, at 7:15 p.m. in Wheelock Gym.

The inaugural event will honor 274 RCC student-athletes who earned a grade point average of 3.0 or higher, including 57 students who achieved a perfect 4.0 GPA. Together, these scholars represent 44 percent of RCC’s student-athlete population, underscoring the college’s commitment to excellence both in the classroom and in competition.

The Scholar Squad Celebration is designed to formally recognize the discipline, resilience, and dedication required to balance rigorous academic coursework with the demands of collegiate athletics. All honorees will receive commemorative Scholar Squad shirts, and the evening will include an awards ceremony, food, and time for teams to celebrate together alongside coaches, athletic staff, family members, and campus supporters.

“This event highlights what it truly means to be a student-athlete at RCC,” said Jen Spalding, Dean of Kinesiology and Athletics. “Our athletes are excelling not only on the field and court, but in the classroom—setting a powerful example of what is possible through commitment and hard work.”

By establishing the Scholar Squad Celebration as an annual tradition, RCC Athletics aims to reinforce a culture where academic achievement is celebrated alongside athletic success. The event is expected to draw strong attendance from across the campus community and strengthen team cohesion while inspiring future Tigers to pursue excellence in all aspects of their college experience.

The Scholar Squad Celebration reflects Riverside City College’s broader mission to support student success, foster accountability, and promote Tiger Pride on and off the field.