Steffenson, who graduates this month with an Associate of Arts degree, is only one of 23 students selected statewide. Nominees were selected based on biographical information, letters of recommendation, academic performance, demonstration of leadership, and campus and community service involvement.

Steffenson, 45, has worked three part-time jobs while attending school full-time. He also has served as president of his Phi Theta Kappa honor society chapter and chaired the chapter’s Relay for Life team. In addition, he volunteers in his church, teaching third through sixth grade, and he works as an advocate in a local homeless shelter. He is also a Master Gardener and coordinates more than 30 volunteers to provide horticultural information to county residents.

Steffenson plans to pursue a career working with special needs students. He has already begun taking classes at St. Cloud State University and plans to transfer there full time and earn a degree in Special Education.