HERKIMER – Herkimer College has been recognized by the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) National Honor Society as a 2022 Recognition Excellence in Acceptance and Completion with Distinction (REACH) Chapter.
The REACH Rewards program honors colleges for their efforts to bring the life-changing benefits and opportunities of PTK membership to their campuses. As part of this special recognition, Herkimer College will receive five Phi Theta Kappa graduation stoles for graduates to wear to signify their membership in PTK.
The Herkimer College PTK Upsilon Epsilon Chapter also holds the distinction of being a Five-Star Chapter, an honor held consecutively since 2017. The Five-Star designation recognizes chapters for student engagement, both on campus and in the community. . Earning the five-star designation is the most exclusive status a Chapter can achieve.
“REACH recognition is an honor and a testament to Herkimer College’s commitment to academic excellence, leadership development and community service,” said College President Dr. Cathleen McColgin. “Congratulations to our PTK Chapter, faculty, and staff for improving the college experience and the lives of our students.”
According to Vicki Brown, College PTK Chapter Advisor, watching the level of engagement among PTK students grow and deepen has been an enriching experience. “It was great to follow the interaction as we expanded our connections through virtual outreach,” Brown shared.
In 2021, 66 students agreed to become members of the Herkimer College PTK Chapter.
According to PTK.org, 91% of Phi Theta Kappa members will earn an associate’s degree or transfer to a four-year college, compared to just 31% of students nationally. Herkimer College is one of 464 PTK chapters nationally recognized for membership growth.
Members have access to millions of dollars in scholarships – $1 million in competitive scholarships through the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation and over $246 million in transfer scholarships to more than 850 four-year colleges.
“As the pandemic lingered into 2021, celebrating student achievement became more important than ever,” said PTK President and CEO Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner. “PTK membership creates greater self-efficacy, fosters a sense of belonging, and provides a supportive community for learning and self-expression. Our work leads to increased student engagement, which leads to higher success rates. I’m so proud of our Reach Chapters – they worked exceptionally hard to create spaces where students could connect and support each other – even in the midst of a global pandemic.
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