Bismarck State College (BSC) student Sophia Fafard, Rocanville, Sask., has been named a 2026 New Century Transfer Scholar and awarded a $2,750 scholarship. Fafard was recognized at Phi Theta Kappa's annual convention, PTK Catalyst, in Baltimore, Maryland, March 26–28.

New Century Transfer Scholars are selected based on academic accomplishments, leadership, activities, and how students extend their intellectual talents beyond the classroom. More than 2,300 students from nearly 1,400 college campuses nationwide were nominated. Only one New Century Transfer Scholar is selected from each state.

“I am very grateful for this recognition,” Fafard said. “It shows that hard work does make a difference, and that my dedication to school and work has paid off.”

Fafard, a mass communication major, chose BSC because of an opportunity to run for the Mystics cross-country team and because of her visit to campus. “When I saw the campus and the Mystic Media newsroom, it made me want to attend BSC,” she said. “Making the choice to attend BSC has been one of the best decisions I’ve made.”

It was while earning her associate degree and working with Mystic Media (the student media organization), serving as co-editor of the college’s student newspaper, that Fafard discovered her passion for journalism.

Fafard graduated from BSC in May 2026 and will attend the University of North Dakota this fall to pursue a bachelor’s degree in journalism, followed by a master’s degree in communications. Her long-term goals include becoming an environmental journalist or a journalism professor and publishing her first book.

“Sophia’s selection as North Dakota’s New Century Transfer Scholar is an extraordinary achievement and a testament to her academic excellence, leadership and dedication to learning,” said Dr. Dan Leingang, Vice President for Academic Affairs at BSC. “Through her involvement with Mystic Media, she exemplified the value of hands-on, experiential learning while developing the skills and passion that will guide her future career in journalism.”

The New Century Transfer Scholars program is sponsored by The Coca-Cola Foundation, the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation and Phi Theta Kappa.

“We congratulate Sophia for receiving this prestigious scholarship, and we are honored to partner with the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation and The Coca-Cola Foundation to recognize these outstanding achievements,” said Phi Theta Kappa President and CEO Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner. “Scholarship programs like this are integral for creating opportunities for two-year college students to succeed and for putting college completion within reach.”