Andalusia, Ala. (WDNews) — Two students from LBW Community College are being recognized at the state level for their academic success, leadership, and service.
Emma Helms of Ashford and Chloe Yates of Mobile have been selected to the 2026 All-Alabama Academic Team, according to the Alabama Community College System. The pair will be honored during a program in Birmingham on Friday, April 10.
“Congratulations to Emma and Chloe on this well-deserved recognition,” said LBW Dean of Student Affairs Jason Jessie. “Their dedication to academics, leadership and service exemplifies the values we celebrate at LBW. They are true difference-makers, and we are proud to see them represent our college on the All-Alabama Academic Team.”
Students selected for the All-Alabama Academic Team must maintain at least a 3.25 GPA, be active on campus, and complete a minimum of 12 semester hours at their college.
Helms, a former LBW volleyball player and fall 2025 graduate, is now attending Auburn University after earning her associate in arts degree. She is working toward a bachelor’s degree in marketing with plans to become a pharmaceutical sales representative.
“I am proud to say that I have accomplished many athletic and academic goals and honors in my short 19 years of life, and I am excited to see what goals I can reach and exceed in the future,” Helms said. “I know that LBW athletics and education has given me the tools I need to finish my degree at Auburn and stay successful.”
Yates is a sophomore studying psychology and plans to transfer to the University of South Alabama. She is a member of the Saints softball team and has earned NJCAA All-Academic first team honors. She is also active in Phi Theta Kappa and Mu Alpha Theta honor societies.
“My major is psychology, and I intend to become a sports psychologist,” Yates said. “I chose this field because I have seen firsthand how the mental side of a sport can impact performance. Many athletes never reach their full potential not because of lack of effort or skill, but due to losing the mental battle. I want to help athletes overcome these struggles and truly love their sport.”
The All-Alabama Academic Team program was established in 1995 and highlights top students across the state’s community college system.
