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MOHAVE COUNTY – Mohave College is proud to announce that Jade Mitchell has been named the 2026 recipient of the Kathy Hodel Most Outstanding Student Award.
The award recognizes a student for exceptional academic achievement, leadership, service and perseverance. Along with the honor, Mitchell will receive a $10,000 cash award, which she plans to use to help fund her future education.
“It’s a huge honor,” Mitchell said. “I’m proud, excited and shocked that I got this award, and I can’t wait to use it for my future.”
Mitchell is pursuing an associate degree in accounting and will graduate this spring with a certificate in bookkeeping. She plans to continue her education at Arizona State University, where she will major in neuroscience.
Mitchell started her journey at Mohave College as a Lake Havasu High School student in the Early College program. The program allowed her to get a jump-start on college courses while still in high school and complete three certificates. Mitchell committed to continue her education at Mohave College after high school because it was close to home and provided her with opportunities to grow personally, enhance her social skills and prepare for a successful career.
Beyond the classroom, Mitchell has remained actively involved in campus life. She serves as secretary for the Bighorn Nerd Herd and is a member of Phi Theta Kappa. She formerly served as secretary for Student Activities Council. Mitchell
said she enjoyed being part of the organizations because they allowed her to find new hobbies and learn leadership and collaboration skills.
About Mohave College
Since 1971, Mohave College has been transforming lives by helping students earn degrees and certificates that lead to better careers and brighter futures. Most alumni stay right here in Mohave County, strengthening the local workforce, fueling economic growth, and giving back to the communities they call home. The College delivers an estimated $199 million annual economic impact to the region and supports over 3,000 jobs in industries ranging from healthcare to the arts. Alumni contribute $158 million each year in additional income to local communities, and 96% of graduates say Mohave prepared them well for their careers or further education. Whether you’re starting your journey or advancing your skills, Mohave College is here to help you own your future. Learn more at Mohave.edu/ImprovingLives.
About the Kathy Hodel Most Outstanding Student Award
The Kathy Hodel Most Outstanding Student Award was established through an endowment gift to the Mohave College Foundation. It was provided by Dr. James H. Childe to honor the memory of his friend Kathy Hodel. She passed away in 2018, after a long battle with bone cancer. Dr. Childe, a retired attorney and Mohave College instructor, gave nearly a quarter-million dollars to establish the endowment. He chose to use this gift as a way to honor outstanding graduating Mohave College students, and Kathy for her countless hours and efforts working to help Mohave College and our local communities. Dr. Childe passed away in 2023.
About Mohave College Foundation
The Mohave College Foundation’s mission is to promote the growth, development, and strength of Mohave College and its students, faculty, staff and programs. Through community partnerships and philanthropy, the Foundation helps advance innovative pathways and quality education that empower students to succeed.
President Dr. Tim Culver, left, presented Jade Mitchell, right, with the Kathy Hodel Most Outstanding Student Award at the 55th Mohave College Commencement Ceremony.
Jade Mitchell was named the 2026 recipient of the Kathy Hodel Most Outstanding Student Award.