Irvine Valley College student Ofelia (Lia) Veisalov has earned national recognition after being selected for three prestigious Phi Theta Kappa academic honors that recognize outstanding community college students for their academic achievement, leadership, and campus engagement.
Veisalov was named to Phi Theta Kappa's 2026 All-USA Academic Team, one of the nation’s highest honors for community college students. Selected from more than 2,300 nominees nationwide, she will receive a $3,000 scholarship recognizing her academic achievement, leadership, and community engagement.
She was also selected as a 2026 New Century Transfer Scholar, a distinction awarded to only one student from each state. Chosen from more than 2,300 nominees representing nearly 1,400 college campuses, New Century Transfer Scholars are recognized for their academic accomplishments, leadership, and meaningful involvement both inside and outside the classroom. Veisalov will receive a $2,750 scholarship.
In addition, Veisalov has been named a 2026 Guistwhite Scholar, an honor awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and leadership through their involvement in Phi Theta Kappa. Selected from approximately 3,000 applicants nationwide, Guistwhite Scholars receive a $5,000 scholarship to support their baccalaureate studies, along with a commemorative medallion.
Now in her third year at Irvine Valley College, Veisalov has distinguished herself as a dedicated scholar, campus leader, and advocate for student success. She describes IVC and her time in Phi Theta Kappa as a meaningful second chance after previously stepping away from college for personal reasons. Returning with renewed determination and purpose, she committed herself to academic excellence, community engagement, and leadership development, with the goal of not only succeeding but also inspiring other students facing similar challenges.
A chemistry major with plans to become a professor, Veisalov is deeply passionate about science and hopes to one day teach at a community college or university, where she can inspire students and cultivate a love of chemistry in future generations.
Beyond the classroom, Veisalov actively contributes to campus initiatives and research. She serves as a peer mentor in the IVC Honors Program and is assisting with Zero Textbook Cost (ZTC) empirical research conducted by the IVC Library. Through her honors coursework and participation in the Honors in Action program, she has presented literature reviews at research conferences including the Honors Transfer Council of California Conference and the IVC/Saddleback Symposium. Veisalov also holds several student leadership roles. She serves as President of the International Students Club and as Vice President of Leadership for Phi Theta Kappa, where she leads the Honors in Action project. In this role, she has worked to make the research process accessible and engaging for all members, fostering inclusive discussions and encouraging fellow students to step into leadership roles through mentorship and workshops.