James Ray, a North Central Missouri College (NCMC) student from Bosworth, MO, has achieved an exceptionally high score on his Microsoft Word (Microsoft 365 Apps) exam, earning him the title of Missouri State Champion. As a result, James has been selected to represent Missouri at the Certiport’s 2025 Microsoft Office Specialist U.S. National Championship in Dallas, Texas, this June.

At the national championship, James will compete in the Microsoft Word track against other top-scoring students from across the nation. The competition offers the chance to win scholarships, prizes, trophies, and the prestigious title of U.S. National Champion, which includes an all-expenses-paid trip to the world championship in Orlando, Florida, in July.

NCMC Business Instructor Madi Stillwell praised James, stating, “James was so quiet and hard-working, but the hard work paid off! He is very bright, and I truly hope Microsoft Offices will help his future career.”

James, an elementary education major, plans to transfer to Northwest Missouri State University to earn his bachelor’s degree in elementary education after graduating from NCMC. His ultimate goal is to teach at a small school, reflecting the family-like atmosphere he experienced throughout his education. James shared, “I would like to have the same small family-like atmosphere that I had all throughout school, starting in elementary school.”

At NCMC, James is actively involved in SMSTA and chose NCMC for its proximity to home and its supportive learning environment. “I enjoy the smaller, friendly atmosphere at NCMC compared to bigger institutes,” he said. His favorite class is Teaching with Field Experience, taught by Instructor Cassie Cordray. “Classes are much smaller than most colleges would be, allowing for more personal connections between students, advisors, and instructors. Instructors and advisors also care about the success of their students, which helps maintain a positive attitude through classes, assignments, and stressful times. I am also commonly reminded of what the end goal is, becoming a teacher, which is the idea I have had since first grade.”

The 2025 Microsoft Office Specialist U.S. National Championship is not just a competition but a platform for students to network, gain recognition, and enhance their professional skills. Students will participate in leadership workshops, professional development sessions, networking events, and fun activities throughout the competition to further develop their skills and celebrate their achievements.

North Central Missouri College is incredibly proud of James and wishes him the best of luck as he represents Missouri and NCMC at the Certiport 2025 Microsoft Office Specialist U.S. National Championship.

Photo: James Ray