Recent CCI graduate, Cristian Gonzalez Mendez, was named the Jim McKay Scholarship winner by the NCAA.

Created in 2008, the award honors Jim McKay, one of the most prominent figures in sports journalism. One female and one male student-athlete are awarded $10,000 annually for outstanding academic performance. Students must have competed in intercollegiate athletics, have a 3.5 GPA, demonstrate superior character and leadership skills, as well as committing to a graduate degree program. Students are encouraged to pursue sports broadcasting.

“It’s an honor to receive the Jim McKay Scholarship from the NCAA,” Mendez said. “I’m fortunate to have the opportunity to receive this to keep studying at Florida State. I want to thank my family and fiancé Summer for their immeasurable support throughout my collegiate career as I couldn’t have done it without them.”

Mendez graduated in Spring 2015 with a Bachelor’s in Public Relations. The former men’s tennis player plans to pursue his Master’s in Integrated Marketing Communication through the School of Communication.

During his time at Florida State, Mendez went 27-8in singles during the 2014 season, helping the team go to the NCAA Tournament for the 13th consecutive season. Through his hard work, he made Florida State’s top-10 list for singles-season victories. For 2014, Mendez was ranked No. 65 nationally.

When he wasn’t on the court Mendez was a devoted student, making the Dean or President’s List seven semesters and graduated with a 3.92 GPA. The Golden Torch winner also made his impact on the community, volunteering with Florida’s Water and Land Legacy as well as the Boys and Girls Club of the Big Bend.