Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society Stronger Than Ever

No one understands the importance of staying connected more than QCC’s Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society’s Advisor, Bonnie Coleman. Under the veil of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ms. Coleman has seen the largest student membership increase in recent memory in the College’s Alpha Zeta Theta Chapter. This past Fall Semester, 160 new students became new members. This number exceeds the combined total of new members of both fall and spring semesters in previous years.  

“It’s been really amazing the way the students have responded since we’ve gone to remote instruction. We are finding that more often than not they are joining if they meet the criteria for membership,” Ms. Coleman said.

Students must have at least 12 credits of college level courses (level 100 or higher) and a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or greater to be eligible to join, as well as pay a one-time membership fee of $85 (a requirement of the national PTK organization).

This increase in student interest may be attributed to the personal growth, camaraderie and leadership skills that students find as a PTK member. Yet what seems to be of particular interest to many new PTK members, are the community service projects.

“Community service is the cornerstone of our chapter and even through a pandemic we have made it our core mission,” Ms. Coleman said. “We currently have 40 students who are volunteering on campus and helping with paperwork and other needs for student COVID-19 testing.”

Another community service project underway is a phone outreach project to all QCC students. PTK students make calls that are designed to ensure that all QCC students know how to manage classes in a remote learning environment, and connect anyone who needs assistance with the appropriate support services.

“It’s really amazing how many PTK students want to help their fellow students,” Ms. Coleman said.

While community service is not a mandatory membership requirement, students who perform two community service projects through the chapter and attend two general chapter meetings before they graduate, will earn a gold stole.

“Becoming a PTK member is so much more than students realize. They are members in PTK for life and the positive implications of being a part of this honor society are endless,” Ms. Coleman said.

While the PTK Office is currently a virtual one, it continues to be active by engaging students online through games and activities, in addition to the ongoing community service projects.

Registration has just begin for the Spring Semester and according to Ms. Coleman, in less than 24-hours, 32 new students registered to members.

“There is no sign of membership slowing down this semester. This demonstrates the importance of programs such as these that help keep students connected despite the challenges of being remote,” she added.

To learn more about the PTK Honor Society, visit PTK. To check on eligibility and register to join, email Ms. Coleman at bcoleman [at] qcc.mass.edu