Home / Alumni & Donors / Alumni / Alumni Recognition / Emerging Alumni Award Emerging Alumni Award Jackson Junior College (JJC) alumnus Zenneth Arthur Pond dreamed of flying, a goal made possible by JJC’s Civilian Pilot Training Program (CPTP). A dedicated student and athlete, he earned his pilot’s license under director Frank Dove’s guidance. Pond enlisted in the Marines in 1941, joining Squadron VMF-223. As part of the first squadron stationed at Guadalcanal, he became a fighter ace, downing six enemy aircraft in 12 days. On Sept. 10, 1942, he disappeared in combat while facing overwhelming odds. He was posthumously promoted to Captain and awarded the Navy Cross for extraordinary heroism. His nephew, Dr. Douglas Benn ’55, described him as a man of integrity, goodwill, and service. In his honor, Jackson College established the Captain Zenneth A. Pond Emerging Alumni Award, recognizing early-career professionals who exemplify integrity, character, and achievement. Emerging Alumni Nomination Form Emerging Alumni Award Recipient 2026 – Emily Mast We are thrilled to recognize Emily Mast, a remarkable achiever who enrolled in the Jackson Preparatory Early College at age 14 and earned her Associate of Arts degree from Jackson College at just 16 — graduating with a perfect 4.0 GPA. A founding member of the Jackson College Heritage Center, Emily credits her experience there, mentored by Professor Diana Agy, as the most impactful of her academic and professional life. Professionally, Emily serves as Channel Marketing Manager for Crexendo, where she has earned the Telarus Coin of Excellence and the Channel Marketing Association Rising Star Award. She is also the Founder of Big Sister Advantage, a platform supporting and empowering women in the workplace, and serves as Inaugural Board Member and Director of Marketing & Communications for Young Channel Leaders. An active alumna and ambassador for Jackson College, Emily remains deeply committed to giving back to the institution she credits as foundational to her success. We are proud to celebrate her outstanding leadership and community impact! Past Recipients 2025 Candyce McArthur Class of 2009 2024 Emily Garcia Hoffman Class of 2010 2023 Ridge Bollheimer Class of 2016 2022 Dr. Brianne E. Mezo Class of 2005 2021 Kyle Leighton 2020 Courtney McIntosh Class of 2011 2019 Dr. Jonathan Curtis Class of 2010 Alumni & Donors Ways to Give Make a Gift Planned Giving Events Giving Tuesday Honors Dinner Starry Night Event Alumni Alumni Recognition Alumni Wall Crockett Distinguished Alumni Award Emerging Alumni Award Alumni Stories Employment & Education Update Contact Information Volunteer Opportunities Jackson College Foundation Board of Directors Mission Scholarships Contact the Foundation
