Tyneisha Lewis
"As you move through this life and this world you change things slightly, you leave marks behind, however small. And in return, life-- and travel-- leaves marks on you." - Anthony Bourdain
2020 has been an unusual year, with the effects of the Coronavirus being felt by everyone. Schools and colleges being closed, social distancing, food shortages, health problems, cancellations and delays are such effects.
Despite everything happening, people are finding new, creative ways to do special events and occasions. One way is through online platforms such as Zoom.
The mission of Phi Theta Kappa is to "(1) Recognize and encourage the academic achievement for students of two-year colleges and (2) Provide opportunities for individual growth and development through participation in honors, leadership, service, and fellowship programming."
Since its 1918 establishment in Missouri, Phi Theta Kappa has continued to follow their mission and has grown to several million members and several thousand chapters from countries around the globe. It's recognized as the official honor society for two-year colleges.
"Phi Theta Kappa is the world’s largest honors organization, said Assistant Director of Student Life and Phi Theta Kappa Co-advisor, Daniel Sym. “PTK inductees are among the best and brightest students that CCBC has to offer, representing less than 1% of all CCBC students. This semester, for the first time, we are combining to one large tri-campus ceremony and making it virtual."
The Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society held their induction ceremony for new members on Tuesday May 19th from 5-6pm. Although online, the ceremony's communal atmosphere was still felt with people dressed in semi-formal attire.
The induction ceremony was a wonderful way to celebrate not only the mission of PTK but also the hard work of the students.
"Induction ceremony is an evening unlike anything I've ever experienced. Every component makes you feel distinct and special," said Phi Theta Kappa V.P. of Service, Zeal Goolesby.
The ceremony was one to remember as all three CCBC campuses, Catonsville, Dundalk, and Essex were together. Everyone including The CCBC president, PTK officers, advisors, members, inductees along with their friends and families were present.
Opening remarks were made by Linda Gronberg Quinn Chapter Advisor, CCBC president Dr. Kurtinitis, PTK CEO Lynn Tincher-Ladner, Middle States Regional Coordinator Patti Van Atter, Briana Barone Middle States Regional president, Rachael Mickl Maryland/DC President, and Traci Williams-Sue, Alumni Speaker.
Followed by speeches made by officers from the Catonsville, Dundalk, and Essex campuses, the evening was filled with laughter, smiles, and proud moments of everyone who attended.
Inductees raised their right hands and gave their pledges. With that, inductees proudly became new Phi Theta Kappa members.
After their pledges, the new members were given a time to shine. As pictures of the members were shown, PTK Chapter Advisor, Eric Cotton read their names, future career aspirations, and the people they would like to thank and acknowledge.
The Phi Theta Kappa Induction Ceremony will be one to remember. A number of students were welcomed and inducted as new members.
Congratulations to all the new members of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society!
I didn’t know it was the largest honors society in the world. I have gotten emails telling me to join Phi Theta Kappa, but I’, still on the edge. I don’t know much about the society and the reasons on why would someone like to join it.
2020 has been a different type of year to say the least. The virus has changed life as we know it and we don’t really know for how long. Just like the students who didn’t let anything stop them, Phi Theta Kappa didn’t let the closing of the CCBC campus to stop the induction ceremony for 2020. The Ceremony hosted speeches from CCBC president Dr. Kurtinitis among several notable PTK members both current and alumni. As a member of PTK myself, I welcome my fellow honors brothers and sisters.