McHenry County College (MCC) recently recognized Diamond Payton with the Spring 2025 Joseph A. Blanco Spirit Award, which includes a $600 scholarship. The award was founded in 2009 by Joe Blanco—a beloved MCC tutor and member of the ADS staff—before he passed away in 2011. It honors students who inspire others everyday with their positive spirit and “can do” attitude.
Diamond was selected by MCC’s Access and Disability Services (ADS) department, who felt that she embodies the qualities that the award recognizes.
“Diamond demonstrates determination and initiative by taking deliberate steps to improve her academic performance,” MCC’s ADS staff noted in their nomination letter. “She has reflected on past challenges and responds proactively when action is required. She makes time for each of the priorities in her life, and it shows through her successful relationships, good grades, and positive feedback from her school team. Diamond demonstrates that you can learn and grow from past obstacles and still be very successful.”
Diamond plans to continue her education at MCC, then transfer to a four-year university to pursue a degree in education.