Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College proudly announces that Kiyoshi Takahashi, a student at the Jackson County Campus, has been named a 2024 Guistwhite Scholar by Phi Theta Kappa (PTK). Takahashi is among the eight exceptional PTK members selected nationwide to receive this prestigious honor and a $5,000 scholarship for baccalaureate studies.

Takahashi, a resident of Ocean Springs, has demonstrated outstanding commitment and leadership in various campus organizations, including Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), Honors college, Student Government Association (SGA), and Oak Club. Notably, he serves as the chapter president of the Pi Epsilon Chapter of PTK on campus, showcasing his dedication to academic excellence and community engagement.

After completing his studies at MGCCC, Takahashi plans to transfer to Mississippi State University, where he will pursue a bachelor’s degree in biological science (pre-med). His long-term goal is to attend the Uniformed Services University and prepare for a career as a physician in the U.S. Air Force, with aspirations of becoming an allergist/immunologist.

Takahashi expressed gratitude for the support he has received from his peers, especially the Pi Epsilon Chapter of PTK officers, and acknowledged Mr. John Miller, the advisor for the chapter, for his guidance and mentorship. “Because of the opportunities and scholarship, I feel that people believe in my goals of becoming a physician, and it makes me see that I can succeed in different future endeavors,” he stated. “I am more motivated to continue finding success and moving forward with my plans.”

The Guistwhite Scholarship is the second-highest scholarship offered by Phi Theta Kappa and is named in honor of the late Margaret and Dr. Jack Guistwhite. The scholarship was established in 1975 as the first transfer scholarship designated exclusively for Phi Theta Kappa members to Florida Atlantic University. Winners of this scholarship were selected from a pool of 3,000 applicants nationwide based on academic excellence, leadership accomplishments, and engagement in Phi Theta Kappa programs.

In addition to the $5,000 scholarship, Takahashi and his fellow Guistwhite Scholars will also receive a commemorative medallion. Phi Theta Kappa’s President and CEO, Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner, commented on the legacy of the scholarship, stating, “What Dr. Guistwhite started nearly 50 years ago has become a transformational force in the lives of PTK members and has resulted in more than 800 colleges and universities designating transfer scholarships for our students.”

The Guistwhite Scholarship celebrates outstanding scholarship and leadership, reflecting the commitment of Jack and Margaret Guistwhite to supporting the academic aspirations of Phi Theta Kappa members. MGCCC congratulates Kiyoshi Takahashi on this remarkable achievement and wishes him continued success in his academic and professional pursuits.