2021 Merit Award

NJCAA Merit Award

First awarded in 1990, the Merit Award is given to a former NJCAA student-athlete that has distinguished themselves and are recognized nationally for their achievements in their profession.  The Merit Award has been given to NJCAA alumni in various fields including professional sports, politics, and music.  To view past Merit Award winners, visit: NJCAA Merit Award Recipients.

Mark Carlson | Parkland College (IL)

Mark Carlson, former Parkland College catcher, has served as an umpire in Major League Baseball since 1999.  Carlson was a member of the Cobras squad from 1987-89 before attending the Joe Brinkman and Bruce Froemming's Umpire School. Carlson was inducted into Parkland's Hall of Fame in 2015 and is recognized as one of the college's 50 Notable Alumni.  In 2020, Carlson was selected to serve on the umpire crew for the 2020 MLB World Series and was promoted to crew chief in the 2021 season. 

Before embarking on his officiating career, Carlson served in the United States Marine Corps and served as a Board member for UMPS Care Charities before founding the Mark Carlson's Care Children's Charity, a non-profit organization designed to help children in need. 

For all 2021 NJCAA Honors and Annual Award Winners, visit: 2021 NJCAA Award Winners

For all NJCAA Honors, please visit: NJCAA Honors Home