Zoe Markovic, 19, of Rock Hall, hopes to use her talents in math and science to make the world a better place.  At Commencement 2026, Zoe received the John T. Harrison Award, Chesapeake College’s highest student honor.

In her graduation address, Zoe urged her classmates to celebrate their academic accomplishments and appreciate all the relationships they formed during their time at Chesapeake.

“We are comforted because we’ll leave with all of the valuable things Chesapeake has given to us. Academic preparation, yes, but also the relationships that can only be achieved in such a tight knit and passionate community as this one,” she said.

A member of Phi Theta Kappa honor society and a Dean’s List student, Zoe has a 3.9 grade point average. In addition to pursuing her studies, she works at a restaurant in Rock Hall and volunteers with the Kent County Public Schools.

When her plans shifted from a career in the U.S. Navy, Zoe turned to Chesapeake College for her next steps.

“Throughout high school, I had planned to enlist in the Navy. I took Dual Enrollment courses at Chesapeake in my junior and senior years, and then my future plans changed.” The Kent County Highs School graduate said. “Chesapeake seemed like the perfect place for me to get started. Everyone here is supportive, the campus is peaceful, and I have been able to really focus on my goals.”

Despite the self-focus, Zoe said she also stepped out of her comfort zone to work with other students.

Zoe is a member of the Skipjack Squad, giving campus tours and representing Chesapeake at community events. She also joined the Chesapeake College Astronomical Society.

“I’ve enjoyed meeting prospective students and learning about their goals. Students here are pursing so many different paths and it’s great that they can do it all right here,” she said. “I’ve developed some new skills here on campus that will help me in the future.”

In supporting her nomination for the Harrison Award, staff and faculty noted Zoe’s attributes.

“Zoe is a remarkable person and she exemplifies what it means to be a top-notch student.  She is kind, respectful, hardworking, and very intelligent. I have every confidence that Zoe will be successful in all she pursues in life,” said Assistant Professor of Mathematics Sarah Sewell.

Assistant Professor of Communications Amy Childs taught Zoe in three classes at Chesapeake.

“Zoe is one of those students who, when I saw her name appear on my roster at the start of a semester, I got extra excited about that class and its potential.  Now, I get to be excited for everyone who has the opportunity to work with her in future endeavors.  She’s that fabulous.”

An aspiring engineer, Zoe will continue her studies at the University of Maryland- College Park. Her eventual goal is an engineering career in sustainability or a field that improves environmental impacts.