Collins named Project Strive Student of the Month

Collins, a sophomore from Prairie City, South Dakota, said he chose Chadron State because of its affordability, small-town feel, and welcoming community. Without the aid of academic and athletic scholarships, Collins believes he would not have been able to attend a four-year college.  

Collins is a K-8 Elementary Education major and member of the CSC track team. 

Ethan Rich, assistant track and field coach, notes Collin’s positive mindset on the team. 

“Shane is a great student and an awesome teammate. As an athlete, he comes to practice every day with a great attitude, is always ready to work, and is supportive of his teammates,” Rich said. 

Collin’s favorite class was Individual Sports Activities (HPER 107). That class allowed him to play games like racquetball and bowling, two activities he didn’t participate in during high school.  

After graduating, Collins wants to teach and coach in a small town. Collins eventually wants to earn his master's degree in school administration and become a principal or superintendent. 

Dr. Eric Rapp, assistant professor, commented positively about Collin’s commitment to education and passion for his future career in education.  

“I know that Shane is going to be a great teacher because of the way he thinks. Shane applies what is learned in class to real world situations and is concerned with best practices in the classroom. Shane is highly motivated to be a great teacher, and from what I can see he is well on his way,” Rapp said.  

Jennifer Schaer, Director of Project Strive/TRiO, praises Collins for his involvement in Project Strive and willingness to help others. 

“Shane has been very active in Project Strive since he started last year as a freshman. He has learned to balance school and track and has been very successful. If there is a project or if someone needs guidance, Shane is a Strive member that will help out. I look forward to seeing Shane grow and excel at CSC,” Schaer said.  

When Collins isn’t in class or competing, he enjoys hanging out with friends and playing cards or going to The Pit to play pool and ping pong.  

Chadron State College’s Project Strive/TRiO program, located in the lower level of the King Library, is an academic enrichment program committed to help students succeed. Project Strive also focuses on career exploration, cultural and social enrichment and self-awareness. To be eligible for the program, a student must be one of the following: A first generation student where neither parent has a four-year degree, meet low-income status based on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services criteria, or have a documented disability. For more information, visit femdomcenter.com/projectstrive.  

—Olivia Bryant, College Relations