WORCESTER, MA – Date – Two students from Quinsigamond Community College were recognized earlier this month by the Massachusetts Association of Community Colleges (MACC) for their induction to the 2025 Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) All-State Academic Team. QCC students Deanna Kelsaw and Vijay Kesavan joined 31 students from other community colleges throughout the state at the ceremony.
“It is an honor to have two of our outstanding PTK students, Deanna and Vijay recognized as members of the state’s All-Academic Team. Their achievements are a testament to what can be accomplished through hard work, dedication, and determination," said QCC President Luis Pedraja, Ph.D.
PTK International Honor Society recognizes and encourages the academic achievement of two-year college students. Students nominated to the national All-USA Academic Team are automatically named to the All-State Academic Teams. To be eligible for nomination, students must have earned a minimum cumulative college-level grade point average of 3.25 on a 4.0 scale
Kelsaw, who recently received a certificate in medical assisting, recognized PTK as a support system that contributed to her success at QCC, in addition to her own strength and perseverance.
“At first, when I thought about a career, I was not sure what I wanted to do because I have cochlear implants and limitations,” Kelsaw shared, explaining that support from PTK staff and other students helped her embrace both her strengths and weaknesses while guiding her academic and professional journey in healthcare.
“Once you become a Phi Theta Kappa member, you are never truly alone,” Kelsaw added.
Kelsaw plans on continuing her studies to become a registered nurse, so she can pursue her passion for helping others.
Kesavan, who will be transferring to Worcester Polytechnic Institute in the fall, has been involved in many extracurricular and academic pursuits at QCC.
“I was very happy to have been recognized. I had never been to the State House before, so getting to go there for an event like the recognition ceremony was an amazing experience,” Kesavan said.
QCC’s PTK Alpha Zeta Theta chapter offers students opportunities for growth through leadership and service programming and has won several regional and national awards.
For more information visit www.QCC.edu/PTK.