Two Flathead Valley Community College students have earned statewide and national recognition this year for their outstanding achievements in creative work and community service.

Lillyan Johnson was selected for publication in the 31st edition of Phi Theta Kappa’s Nota Bene Literary and Visual Arts Honors Anthology for her piece, “The Wooden Battle.” Nota Bene is academic honors society's premier literary publication, showcasing top creative work from honor society students across the nation. 

More than 3,200 submissions were reviewed by a national panel of judges, making Johnson’s selection a distinguished accomplishment. “The Wooden Battle” will be published later this year, and Johnson will be honored as part of the honor society's Parade of Scholars in 2026.

Logger Sports athlete and team captain Blaine Shaw received the 2025 Montana Athletes in Service Award at the Brawl of the Wild football game in Missoula. Presented annually by the Montana Campus Network for Civic Engagement, the award recognizes student-athletes who model leadership through service, balancing athletic and academic commitments while making a meaningful difference in their communities.

A sophomore majoring in natural resources, Shaw contributes regularly to local and statewide volunteer efforts. His service includes trail maintenance with Foys to Blacktail Trails, cleanup and support for the Crazy Mountain 100-mile race, volunteering at the Log Jam nonprofit fundraiser and helping present educational demonstrations at the Family Forestry Expo. 

In addition, Shaw has been involved in community service since childhood, volunteering weekly at a nearby assisted-living community.

“I volunteer to give back to the community and be around others who want to make a difference,” Shaw said. “Having clean, well-maintained areas for recreation encourages people to get outside and enjoy nature. I want to inspire others to find ways to give back, whether that’s trail work, picking up trash or assisting nonprofits. Leave things better than you find them.”

FVCC administrators said they were proud to recognize Lillyan and Blaine for their accomplishments and the positive example they set for our campus and community.