BUTLER TWP - Butler County Community College is looking for a few good former students.

BC3's alumni association is seeking former students for its second annual BC3 Distinguished Alumni awards program.

The awards were started last year to recognize former students who are making outstanding contributions in their profession and who also show a commitment to community service.

"We're looking for a 'wow factor,'" said Michelle Jamieson, BC3's alumni affairs director. "What we want to show is that we have former students who have gone on to bigger and better things. We want to honor them for their success."

Jamieson had just started her new position with BC3 last year when the alumni awards were started.

"It was very well-received by the community," she said. "We had 150 people attend the awards ceremony, and we hope to attract even more this year."

During that process, Jamieson said, "I realized that the community really supports BC3. And no matter which way you turn, you run into a BC3 success story."

Last year's honored alumni were: Jessica Forsythe, a 1969 BC3 graduate; Diane Marburger, a 1981 graduate; and Dr. Drew Matonak, a 1974 graduate.

Jamieson said there is no rule on how many people may be honored. It depends on the number of nominations.

Requirements for nomination include:

The nominee must be nominated by someone other than themselves.

The nominee must have completed 30 credits at BC3.

The nominee must have distinguished themselves in their chosen profession.

The nominee must provide volunteer service in the community or to the college.

The nominee must provide inspiration to the college and community.

Nomination applications are available online at www.bc3.edu or by calling 724-287-8711, Ext. 8235. Applications must be returned no later than Feb. 15.

This year's honored alumni will be announced in late March. An awards ceremony will be May 6 at the BC3 Succop Theater.

Tickets for that event are $12 per person and $10 for BC3 alumni members. For tickets, call 724-287-8711, Ext. 8235.