MISSOULA, MONTANA: Raymond Knight, an AmeriCorps member serving Miles Community College (MCC), has been awarded the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
The President’s Volunteer Service Award, presented by AmeriCorps and Points of Light, recognizes individuals who have dedicated their lives to positively impacting their communities. Knight’s service accounts for more than 6,500 hours served, focused on promoting higher education opportunities to underserved communities.
“It is nothing short of an absolute honor to receive such recognition,” stated Knight, who received his award during the dress rehearsal of the 2023 MCC Commencement Ceremony earlier this month. “I am indebted to the advisory board for nominating me and everyone who was involved in my selection.”
AmeriCorps College Coaches are placed in high schools, colleges, universities, and education-focused nonprofits throughout Montana. They serve directly with low-income and first-generation students, helping them to attain their educational goals and prepare for successful careers.
“As a multi-term AmeriCorps member, Raymond embodies persistence, thoughtful positivity, and commitment to addressing the real challenges in our society,” said Josh Vanek, Executive Director of Montana Campus Compact. “He has demonstrated the AmeriCorps commitment to "making our people safer, smarter and healthier" and that fits perfectly with Campus Compact's network of colleges and universities who strive to support students and communities reaching their full potential. We're honored to know and serve with Raymond.”
Knight has served through AmeriCorps in several areas of the country including Georgia, Washington, Arizona, and now Montana. He has helped hundreds of students navigate the admissions process, secure financial aid, enroll in college, and find meaningful employment by providing them with the tools and resources they need to succeed.
“Raymond makes a difference on our campus and in our community,” commented Richard DeShields, MCC Dean of Student Engagement and Auxiliary Services. “During his time here, he has helped counsel students who once thought college wasn’t a possibility. His work in helping connect students’ academic experiences with real-world applications through career development has positively impacted MCC students and high school students throughout Eastern Montana.”
In addition to his service as an AmeriCorps member, Knight is actively involved in his community. He serves on the board of several local non-profit organizations and is also a member of several professional organizations that advocate for equal access to education and opportunity for all.
“Volunteering is a wonderful way of taking the benefit of what one has learned and applying it directly to a situation to affect positive change,” stated Knight. “It’s a rewarding, life-transformative, win-win activity drenched in hope and compassion that is available to just about everyone. I would encourage everyone to get involved and become the change that they want to see.”
Knight received a certificate of achievement and an official coin from AmeriCorps and letters of recognition from both Montana Governor Greg Gianforte and the President of the United States.
To learn more about Montana Campus Compact and AmeriCorps, vist: For more information on the Montana Campus Compact awards and scholarships, please visit www.mtcompact.org.
