Butte College Student Ashley Threewit Named Kinesiology Student of the Year

Butte College student Ashley Threewit has been named Kinesiology Student of the Year, North by the California Community College Physical Educators, Kinesiology and Dance Association.

Threewit is recognized for her dedication, leadership, and perseverance both in and out of the classroom. In yoga and dance courses, instructors consistently highlight her strong work ethic, perfect attendance, and positive influence. She encourages classmates to push themselves while creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

Her journey to this achievement reflects remarkable resilience.

Threewit returned to college after experiencing housing insecurity and living outdoors. In March 2023, she moved into the Genesis Pallet Shelter in Chico, where she connected with the Department of Rehabilitation and began rebuilding her path through education.

"Since coming back to Butte College, I have fully committed myself to my education," Threewit said in her student statement for the award. "I maintained strong grades and, in some classes, perfect attendance - despite walking in the rain and taking multiple buses to campus."

She is now the first person in her family to be accepted into a state university, a milestone she describes as deeply meaningful.

Beyond her academic success, Threewit advocates for people experiencing housing insecurity. Through social media and local media appearances, she shares her story to promote dignity-centered support and challenge stigma.

"I may have experienced homelessness, but I have never been helpless," she said. "My resilience defines me - and drives my future."

Threewit plans to complete a bachelor's degree in kinesiology and launch her own dance fitness program. Long-term, she aims to earn a master's degree with a focus on pedagogy and adaptive physical education.

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