Jayden Narciso has been named to the prestigious 2026 All-USA Academic Team.
Selected from more than 2,300 nominees nationwide, Narciso’s achievement highlights his exceptional academic performance, leadership and commitment to community service. As part of this recognition, he will receive a $3,000 scholarship.
The All-USA Academic Team, presented by the Phi Theta Kappa and the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), celebrates students who excel both inside and outside the classroom. Narciso will be formally honored at the AACC annual convention in Seattle later this month.
A Proven Record of Academic Achievement and Service
Narciso’s selection is based on a well-rounded record of academic excellence, campus involvement and meaningful community engagement. This recognition marks his second major honor from Phi Theta Kappa in 2026. Earlier this year, he was named a New Century Transfer Scholar and recognized at a ceremony in Baltimore.
“The All-USA program is a prestigious recognition of a student's exceptional abilities both in and outside of the classroom,” said Amanda Karpinski-Gorman, Director of the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation. “These students are selected for their resilience, creativity and ingenuity in tackling global and local challenges.”
Dual Credit Success and a Bright Academic Future
Narciso is currently a dual credit student at San Juan College High School. In May, he will graduate with both a high school diploma and an Associate of Science degree in Pre-Health Sciences.
“Being selected as a 2026 All-USA Academic Team member was thrilling,” Narciso said. “I am grateful for the support and opportunities from San Juan College High School and San Juan College. I’m proud my hard work throughout high school and at SJC over the past four years has paid off.”
Acceptance into Competitive UNM BA/MD Program
Looking ahead, Narciso has been accepted into the highly competitive Combined BA/MD Degree Program at the University of New Mexico (UNM). This selective program was established to address the physician shortage in rural and underserved communities across New Mexico. Each year, only 28 students are admitted from high schools across the state and the Navajo Nation.
Participants in the program receive financial support and conditional admission to UNM’s School of Medicine, positioning them for long-term success in the medical field while encouraging them to serve their communities.
Passion for Research and Community Impact
Narciso plans to pursue biomedical research with a focus on cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, fields that have the potential to transform lives through innovation and discovery.
“I’d like to continue research at UNM with a biomedical focus,” he said. “My dream is to research cancer or neurodegenerative diseases. I'm very happy that I've been able to make a positive impact on my community, and I hope to continue doing so in the future as well.”
His dedication to both science and service reflects the core values of the All-USA Academic Team: leadership, academic rigor, and a commitment to making a difference.
Celebrating Student Success at San Juan College
Jayden Narciso’s achievement underscores the strength of student support, mentorship and academic opportunity available at San Juan College. His journey serves as an inspiring example for students pursuing higher education, particularly those interested in healthcare and community service.
Whether you’re starting your college journey or advancing your career, now is the time to take the next step toward your future.
