an introduction and quick reference guide for phi theta ... · an introduction and quick reference...

An Introduction and Quick Reference Guide for Phi Theta Kappa Advisors and Officers

800.946.9995 | ptk.org

Inside:Initial Action Lists ............. 2Activate the Mission ....... 3 Chapter Leader Roles and Responsibilities ....... 4

Chapter Activities: January/February ............ 5 March/April/May ............. 6 June/July/August ............ 7 September/October ...... 8 November/December .... 9

Project Guides............... 10 Glossary ......................... 11Recognition and Opportunities................ 12

2

Dear Chapter Leader,Greetings from Your Headquarters Staff! We are so grateful for your leadership in our community of scholars! This guide provides the road map – better known as the Five Star Chapter Plan – for an active, engaged Phi Theta Kappa Chapter. Your chapter team decides the destination you would like to reach this year – the level of engagement that best fits your chapter’s aspirations.

In addition, this is your go-to guide for Phi Theta Kappa lingo – you’ll find a comprehensive Glossary about the people, the Program, many benefits, and international initiatives and events on page 11.

We’re here to help so let us hear from you! Contact information for staff dedicated to your division of the organization is below.

DIVISION I Carolinas (NC, SC), Middle States (DE, MD, NJ, PA), New England (CT, ME, MA, NH, RI, VT), New York, Ohio, Virginia/West Virginia

Onjalai Flake [email protected] | 800.946.9995 Ext. 5740

Danya Stuart [email protected] | 800.946.9995 Ext. 3522

DIVISION II

Alabama, Florida (FL, BVI, Peru), Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi/Louisiana, Tennessee, Texas

Courtney [email protected] | 800.946.9995 Ext. 3555

Melissa Price [email protected] | 800.946.9995 Ext. 3557

DIVISION III

Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minn-Kota (MN, ND, SD), Missouri, Oklahoma/Arkansas, Wisconsin

Mia [email protected] | 800.946.9995 Ext. 3628

Paige [email protected] | 800.946.9995 Ext. 3554

DIVISION IV

Arizona, Colorado, Nebraska/Wyoming, Greater Northwest (AK, AB, MT, N. ID, WA), Nevada/California, New Mexico, Pacific (Palau, Micronesia, Marshall Islands, AS, GU, HI),

Rocky Mountain-Cascade (OR, UT, S. ID)

Dawneen [email protected] | 800.946.9995 Ext. 3647

Fredrica Packnett [email protected] | 800.946.9995 Ext. 3572

Getting Started Advisors1. After you browse this helpful resource, log in with your username

and password to Phi Theta Kappa’s website – ptk.org. 2. Go to ptk.org/myptk. This is where you’ll update your chapter’s

Five Star Plan goal/progress, submit eligible members, report chapter officers, check your invoices, register for conferences, and, well, manage your chapter!

3. Then review YOUR chapter information at ptk.org/myptk to make sure we have the correct people listed for your campus.

4. Work with chapter officers to launch a Membership Recruitment Campaign with our professional resources at ptk.org/myptk AND your personal touches. Step-by-step instructions are at ptk.org/myptk.

5. If your chapter is planning to be a Two Star Chapter or higher, get started on Phi Theta Kappa’s program, Honors in Action. This is the primary way we fulfill our mission to build scholar servant-leaders. Learn more at ptk.org/honors.

6. Check out membership benefits/engagement at ptk.org/programs AND advisor benefits at ptk.org/advisor. Phi Theta Kappa provides advisors with exceptional professional development and even scholarship opportunities so don’t miss out!

7. Plan to join us for our spring Annual Convention called NerdNation (nerdnation.ptk.org) and/or our summer Honors Institute (ptk.org/honors/institute). We promise you’ve never experienced anything like these international events. And they are a great way to network and learn more about your leadership role.

8. Make the most of your Phi Theta Kappa Experience!

Chapter Officers1. After you browse this helpful resource, log in with your username

and password to Phi Theta Kappa’s website at ptk.org/myptk to set your chapter’s goal in the Five Star Plan.

2. Then review YOUR chapter information at ptk.org/myptk to make sure we have the correct people listed for your campus.

3. Working with your advisor(s), launch a Membership Recruitment Campaign with our professional resources at ptk.org/campaign AND your personal touches.

4. Organize an induction ceremony at ptk.org/myptk. Keep in mind every ceremony doesn’t have to be this formal.

5. If your chapter is planning to be a Two Star Chapter or higher, get started on Phi Theta Kappa’s program, Honors in Action. This is the primary way we fulfill our mission to build scholar servant-leaders. Learn more at ptk.org/honors.

6. Check out your member benefits at ptk.org/programs so you can effectively promote participation to your fellow members. Many students accept membership in Phi Theta Kappa for scholarship opportunities. Learn more at ptk.org/scholarships.

7. Plan to join us for our spring Annual Convention called NerdNation (nerdnation.ptk.org) and/or our summer Honors Institute (ptk.org/honors/institute). We promise you’ve never experienced anything like these international events. And they are a great way to network and learn more about your leadership role.

8. Make the most of your Phi Theta Kappa Experience!

3

Translating the Mission into ActionThat’s what the Five Star Chapter Plan does! Phi Theta Kappa chapters put our mission into action through five levels of engagement that progress from local, campus involvement to regional involvement to international involvement. This guide introduces you to the details of the Five Star Chapter Plan, a road map through the levels of increasing engagement in Phi Theta Kappa activities. Here’s how every level connects to our mission and a quick summary of the levels:

In the following pages, this guide shows all the chapter activities chronologically, indicating which level of engagement each activity represents.

Online, you will find the Five Star Chapter Plan checklist to report your activities so your chapter will

be recognized for contributing to our mission.ptk.org/fivestar

Phi Theta Kappa chapters often engage in the college and local communities with many activities beyond those included in the Five Star Chapter Plan. You won't find information about those other activities here. The activities of the Five Star Chapter Plan all directly connect to the mission of Phi

Theta Kappa and make the chapter distinct from other student organizations. Chapters can earn recognition at the international and regional levels for completing these activities.

As you will notice in the following pages, chapters work on multiple levels of the Five Star Plan at the same time. The complete Five Star Chapter Plan details, reporting form, suggestions, and FAQs are online at ptk.org/fivestar.

ONE STAR CHAPTERRecognizing Academic Excellence, Chapter Foundations

All chapters have a default goal to be a One Star chapter. Those chapters that choose to engage in our Honors Program and initiatives and events can set a higher goal to earn more stars and use the Five Star Chapter Plan to track progress.

TWO STAR CHAPTEROrganized Chapter Leadership and Getting Started with Honors in Action

THREE STAR CHAPTERDeveloping an Honors in Action Project and a College Project

FOUR STAR CHAPTERIncreased Presence on Campus and Increased Engagement in the Region

FIVE STAR CHAPTERFurther Involvement in the Region and in International Activities or Events

Phi Theta Kappa’s Mission Five Star Chapter PlanActivate the Mission

The purpose of Phi Theta Kappa shall be to recognize and encourage scholarship among two year college students.

To achieve this purpose, Phi Theta Kappa shall provide opportunity for the development of leadership and service, for an intellectual climate for exchange of ideas and ideals, for lively fellowship for scholars, and for stimulation of interest in continuing academic excellence.

Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, Center for Excellence, 1625 Eastover Drive, Jackson, MS, 39211 800.946.9995 601.984.3504 ptk.org

On the cover: Psi Kappa Chapter, St. Philip's Community College – San Antonio Campus, San Antonio, Texas

Copyright © 2015 by Phi Theta Kappa. All rights reserved.

Phi Theta Kappa is committed to the elimination of discrimination based on gender, race, class, economic status, ethnic background, sexual orientation, age, physical ability, political affiliation, and cultural and religious background.

1625 Eastover Drive • Jackson, MS 39211 • 800.946.9995

Appearing in photos are members fromAlpha Chi Zeta, Seattle Central Community College,

Alpha Epsilon Omega, North Seattle Community College & Pi Iota, Shoreline Community College, Seattle, WA

Your academic excellence has earned you an invitation to join Phi Theta Kappa and receive the benefits of The Phi Theta Kappa Experience.

MEMBERSHIP BENEFITSRecognition of Your Academic Achievement Golden Key Membership Pin

Embossed Membership Certificate

Opportunity to wear the Phi Theta Kappa Honors Regalia (contingent on college policy)

Press Release announcing membership

Scholarships & Transfer Resources

$36 million in transfer scholarships offered to Phi Theta Kappa members by more than 700 four-year colleges and universities

$130,000 in scholarships awarded annually by Phi Theta Kappa

Automatic inclusion in CollegeFish.org, Phi Theta Kappa’s comprehensive transfer planning program

Letters of recommendation sent to college admissions counselors

Career Resources

Access to Phi Theta Kappa’s Career Resource Center

Opportunity for GS upgrade for federal employees (upon completion of baccalaureate degree)

Letters of recommendation sent to potential employers

www.ptk.org

Phi Theta Kappa...The Key Advantage

Phi Theta Kappa is recognized as the official honor society for community colleges by the American Association of Community Colleges.

Membership is based on superior academic achievement and is conferred only by invitation of your local chapter. To learn more, attend an informational meeting on your campus, contact your chapter advisor, or visit us online at www.ptk.org.

FPO

4

Chapter Leadership RolesEach of the activities on the following pages relates to Phi Theta Kappa’s mission and the Star Level of each activity is indicated in addition to the suggested time of year that activities occur. Advisors and officers fulfill differing roles for these activities of the different Star Levels as described here.

ONE STAR CHAPTER RECOGNIZING ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE, CHAPTER FOUNDATIONSConsidered the “Premier Star,” activities at this level are the foundation and minimum requirements for every chapter. Validation and recognition of academic success and promoting membership acceptance are ongoing throughout the year, even as chapters engage in activities for the other levels of the Five Star Chapter Plan.ADVISORS’ ROLE• Work with the appropriate college personnel to obtain the list of eligible members, and upload the file online to allow

students to accept their invitations to become members • As a key point of contact for the chapter, advisors also contribute to raising awareness of Phi Theta Kappa and the

benefits of membership, and assist with presentations at information sessions• Assist and direct the officers with arrangements for induction ceremonies; participate in leading the ceremoniesCHAPTER OFFICERS’ ROLE• Raise awareness; contact prospective members; lead information sessions; lead the induction ceremonies

TWO STAR CHAPTER ORGANIZED CHAPTER LEADERSHIP AND GETTING STARTED WITH HONORS IN ACTIONIn addition to the One Star Chapter activities, Two Star Chapters conduct at least two enrollment periods and induction ceremonies and begin to implement Phi Theta Kappa’s program called Honors in Action. ADVISORS’ ROLE • Monitor and coach officers for effective meeting management• Make initial contact with the college president and participate in the officers’ meeting with the college presidentCHAPTER OFFICERS’ ROLE• Organize and lead effective chapter meetings, at least twice per month• Participate in a meeting with the college president or an administrator about the chapter’s activities and plans• Lead the chapter’s exploration of the Honors Program Guide and organize the chapter’s research of a theme related to

the Honors Study Topic, Frontiers and the Spirit of Exploration. Learn more at ptk.org/honors • Review the Five Star Chapter Plan; set a Star Goal; report the goal and activities at ptk.org/fivestar

THREE STAR CHAPTER DEVELOPING AN HONORS IN ACTION PROJECT AND A COLLEGE PROJECTIn addition to the One Star and Two Star Chapter activities, Three Star Chapters continue to implement Phi Theta Kappa’s Honors in Action program and plan and implement a College Project with the college administration.ADVISORS’ ROLE • Coach the chapter regarding Honors in Action, especially regarding college policies for student projects• Facilitate continued outreach and reporting with the college administration regarding the College ProjectCHAPTER OFFICERS’ ROLE• Plan and lead the chapter’s Honors in Action Project and College Project; engage members to participate• Keep a record of the chapter activities and share news on campus and in the community

FOUR STAR CHAPTER INCREASED PRESENCE ON CAMPUS AND INCREASED ENGAGEMENT IN THE REGIONIn addition to the One Star, Two Star and Three Star Chapter activities, Four Star Chapters get involved in their Phi Theta Kappa region and write and submit an entry for at least one Hallmark Award.ADVISORS’ ROLE • Facilitate registration, financial paperwork, transportation arrangements for regional events• Coach the Hallmark Awards submission process and certify the Hallmark Awards entriesCHAPTER OFFICERS’ ROLE• Participate in regional activities; share what happens in the region with others who could not attend• Write and submit a Hallmark Award application; the chapter president must certify the Hallmark Awards entries for

advisor awards only• Host a Phi Theta Kappa Awareness event on your campus (ptk.org/awareness); can include sharing benefits of

membership like scholarship opportunities and Competitive Edge, and benefits for all students like CollegeFish.org

FIVE STAR CHAPTER FURTHER INVOLVEMENT IN THE REGION AND IN INTERNATIONAL ACTIVITIES OR EVENTSIn addition to the One Star, Two Star, Three Star, and Four Star Chapter activities, Five Star Chapters fully engage in international activities and/or events and enter at least three Hallmark Awards categories including the awards for Honors in Action Projects, College Projects and one individual award. • Roles mirror the Four Star Chapter roles, but for international activities and events• If the chapter is unable to send a representative to the Annual Convention, the Honors Institute or the Advisor Institute,

the requirement to participate at the international level may be fulfilled without travel if the chapter submits an entry in the Honors Case Study Challenge (learn more at ptk.org/honors/casechall)

5

January/FebruaryThis is a suggested timeline for Five Star Chapter Plan activities; many of these activities can be completed at any time.Note: The timeline lists activities related to all of the levels in the Five Star Chapter Plan, the level of an activity is indicated by the stars.

Set membership recruitment goal for each induction in 2015; Advisors – hold a winter/spring recruitment campaign.• Strategize how to conduct the most effective membership campaigns and increase the membership

acceptance rate• Gain visibility on campus; Membership Benefits promotional materials are mailed to advisors in January• Ask all faculty to encourage eligible members to accept their invitations; Faculty Awareness Fliers are

available for download at ptk.org/campaign• Send membership invitations• Conduct information sessions for students eligible for membership; agenda suggestions and PowerPoint

presentation available for download at ptk.org/campaign• Use telephone and email follow-up

Submit the Chapter Annual Report (an online form; a link is emailed to the contact advisor in January).

Review the entire Five Star Chapter Plan at ptk.org/fivestar, and indicate your Five Star Chapter goal for 2015 if you plan to reach Two, Three, Four, or Five Stars; be sure to report the goal and update activities at ptk.org/fivestar.

Convene chapter meetings twice monthly (one of the meetings can be a chapter officer meeting).

Review the Honors Program Guide (copies mailed to advisors in January, also available electronically at ptk.org/honors).

• Learn about the Honors Study Topic and the Honors in Action program • Set research objectives and goals and initiate an investigation of one of the issue-oriented themes

Get the word out – about meetings and activities – with a chapter newsletter, website, and/or published articles in a college publication.

Keep a complete chronicle of the chapter’s activities.

Enter at least one Hallmark Awards category for activities in 2014; deadline for individual member and advisor award categories is January 14, 2015, and for chapter award categories is January 28, 2015, by 5:00 p.m. CST. Details about the awards categories, judging rubrics and entry instructions can be found at ptk.org/hallmarks.

Enter BOTH of the Chapter Hallmark Awards categories, deadline is January 28, 2015, by 5:00 p.m. CST, and at least ONE Member, Advisor or Administrator Hallmark Awards category; deadline January 14, 2015, by 5:00 p.m. CST. Details about the awards categories, judging rubrics and entry instructions can be found at ptk.org/hallmarks.

Phi Theta Kappa’s Annual Academy and NerdNation Convention on April 16-18, 2015 in San Antonio, Texas, is one of the options to fulfill the Five Star requirement to participate at the international level. The Early Bird Convention Registration deadline is February 2, 2015. Learn more at nerdnation.ptk.org.

Phi Theta Kappa’s Honors Institute in Albuquerque, New Mexico at the University of New Mexico, June 15-20, 2015, is one option to fulfill the Five Star requirement to participate at the international level. Registration opens in January. Learn more at ptk.org/honors/institute.

If the chapter is unable to send a representative to the Annual Convention, the Honors Institute OR the Advisor Institute, the requirement to participate at the international level can be met if the chapter submits an entry in the Honors Case Study Challenge. Learn more at ptk.org/honors/casechall.

Also of note – Advisors may apply for the Mosal and Marshall Awards, due February 20, 2015. Learn more at ptk.org/benefits/awards/mosal and ptk.org/benefits/awards/marshall.

Regional information if applicable

Event: Dates: Location:

6

March/April/MayThis is a suggested timeline for Five Star Chapter Plan activities; many of these activities can be completed at any time.Note: The timeline lists activities related to all of the levels in the Five Star Chapter Plan, the level of an activity is indicated by the stars.

Conduct an induction ceremony; March is often the time for spring induction ceremonies. Provide information about chapter activities and benefits of engaging in them and be sure to encourage new members to run for chapter leadership positions.

March or April is often a good time to meet with the college president or other administrator to discuss chapter goals and involvement on campus, begin dialogue about a possible College Project, share experiences at regional and international events and any recognition received, discuss plans and needs for the remainder of the year.


Late spring is often when chapters have officer elections for the next summer, fall, and spring semesters; new officers should begin by reviewing the chapter bylaws.

If the chapter elects new officers in the late spring: Advisors – Report the new chapter officers; Chapter Leaders – verify the Chapter Directory information at ptk.org/myptk.

Plan for a smooth transition to a new officer team and schedule an orientation and training session for the late spring or early summer.

Update chapter activities at ptk.org/fivestar.



Honors in Action Project planning (learn more on page 10 and at ptk.org/honors).

March is often when Regional Conventions occur and attendance at a regional event and engaging with the region is a Four Star requirement; check your region’s information at ptk.org/myptk. Check for summer events too and plan ahead!

How will your chapter engage with the region?• Campaign for regional office• Contribute to the regional Honors in Action Project• Host or help lead a regional event• Collaborate with at least two other chapters in the region for an activity or event

Phi Theta Kappa’s Annual Academy and Convention is one of the options to fulfill the Five Star requirement to participate at the international level. The Annual Convention is April 16-18, 2015, in San Antonio, Texas. Learn more at nerdnation.ptk.org.

Phi Theta Kappa's Annual Honors Institute is one of the options to fulfill the Five Star requirement to participate at the international level. The Honors Institute registration deadline is May 30, 2015. The Honors Institute takes place June 15-20, 2015, at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Learn more at ptk.org/honors/institute.

If the chapter is unable to send a representative to the Annual Convention or Honors Institute or an advisor to the Advisor Institute, the requirement to participate at the international level can be met if the chapter submits an entry in the Honors Case Study Challenge. Learn more at ptk.org/honors/casechall.

Also of note – Remind members about a key membership benefit: Scholarships! Phi Theta Kappa’s Spring Scholarship Application opens on March 2, 2015, and the deadline is May 15, 2015. Learn more about scholarships at ptk.org/scholarships.



7

June/July/AugustThis is a suggested timeline for Five Star Chapter Plan activities; many of these activities can be completed at any time. Note: The timeline lists activities related to all of the levels in the Five Star Chapter Plan, the level of an activity is indicated by the stars.

Plan for the fall membership recruitment period.

Strategize how you can conduct the most effective membership campaigns and increase the membership acceptance rate.

• Gain visibility on campus• Ask all faculty to encourage eligible members to accept their invitations; Faculty Awareness Fliers are

available for download at ptk.org/campaign• Send membership invitations• Conduct information sessions for students eligible for membership; agenda suggestions and PowerPoint

presentation available for download at ptk.org/campaign• Use telephone and email follow-up





Honors in Action Project and College Project preparation and activities (learn more on page 10 and at ptk.org/honors).

Many regions convene events during the summer months and attendance at a regional event and engaging with the region is a Four Star requirement; check your region’s information at ptk.org/myptk.

Phi Theta Kappa’s Honors Institute is one of the options to fulfill the Five Star requirement to participate at the international level. The Honors Institute takes place June 15-20, 2015, at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Learn more at ptk.org/honors/institute.

During the summer, registration for the 2015 Advisor Institute will open, another option to fulfill the Five Star requirement to participate at the international level. Advisor Institute is a complimentary training and networking event usually held in September. Find out more at ptk.org/myptk.

If the chapter is unable to send a representative to the Annual Convention or Honors Institute or an advisor to the Advisor Institute, the requirement to participate at the international level can be met if the chapter submits an entry in the Honors Case Study Challenge. Learn more at ptk.org/honors/casechall.



8

September/OctoberThis is a suggested timeline for Five Star Chapter Plan activities; many of these activities can be completed at any time.Note: The timeline lists activities related to all of the levels in the Five Star Chapter Plan, the level of an activity is indicated by the stars.

Organize and conduct a membership campaign.

Conduct a second induction ceremony; October is often the time for fall induction ceremonies. Provide information about chapter activities and benefits of engaging in them and be sure to encourage new members to run for chapter leadership positions.





Honors in Action Project and College Project activities and events (learn more on page 10 and at ptk.org/honors).

September/October is often when Regional Honors in Action Conferences occur; check your region’s information at ptk.org/regions.

How will your chapter engage with the region?• Campaign for regional office• Contribute to the regional Honors in Action Project• Host or help lead a regional event• Collaborate with at least two other chapters in the region for an activity or event

Host a Phi Theta Kappa Awareness event on your campus (ptk.org/awareness); can include sharing benefits of membership like scholarship opportunities and Competitive Edge, and benefits for all students like CollegeFish.org.

One option to fulfill the Five Star requirement to participate at the international level is advisor attendance at a 2015 Advisor Institute, scheduled to take place in September.

If the chapter is unable to send a representative to the Annual Convention or Honors Institute or an advisor to the Advisor Institute, the requirement to participate at the international level can be met if the chapter submits an entry in the Honors Case Study Challenge. Submissions deadline is November 3, 2015. Learn more at ptk.org/honors/casechall.

Also of note – Advisors may apply to be 2016 Faculty Scholars, an opportunity for professional development and engagement with the Honors Program and Honors Institute. The application deadline is September 30, 2015.

Also of note – Remind members about a key membership benefit: Scholarships! Phi Theta Kappa’s Fall Scholarship Application opens on October 1, 2015, and the deadline is December 1, 2015. Learn more about scholarships at ptk.org/scholarships.



9

Phi Theta Kappa Founders Day is November 19! It’s a great time to raise awareness of Phi Theta Kappa on campus, promote the benefits of membership, and celebrate with members and prospective members.


Update chapter activities at ptk.org/fivestar (the last day to update chapter activities is January 27, 2016).



Honors in Action Project and College Project review and reflection (learn more on page 10 and at ptk.org/honors).

Share information with the campus and/or community about the Honors in Action research the chapter conducted (e.g., host an event that includes a formal presentation, write an article for a publication, create a display in the library or other resource center, etc.).

Begin preparing for writing the 2016 Hallmark Awards entries (Four Star requires at least one Hallmark Awards entry; Five Star requires Hallmark Awards entries in BOTH of the Chapter Hallmark Awards categories and at least ONE Member, Advisor, or Administrator Hallmark Awards category). Deadlines for the 2016 Hallmark Awards Program are December 9, 2015 for Administrator Awards categories (College Administrator, Gordon, Bennett, Community College State Director), January 13, 2016 for Individual Awards categories (Chapter Member, Chapter Officer, Chapter Officer Team, Paragon Advisor, Distinguished Advisor, Continued Excellence for Advisor, Regional Officer and Regional Officer Team Awards), and January 27, 2016 for Honors in Action Project Award and College Project Award entries. Entries are always due by 5:00 p.m. CST on the appropriate due date. Details about the awards categories, judging rubrics and entry instructions can be found at ptk.org/hallmarks.

Administrator Hallmark Award nominations for the 2016 Hallmark Awards Program are due at Phi Theta Kappa Headquarters by December 9, 2015, by 5:00 p.m. CST (the specific award categories are College Administrator, Gordon, Bennett, Community College State Director). Details about the awards categories, judging rubrics and entry instructions can be found at ptk.org/hallmarks.

If the chapter is unable to send a representative to the Annual Convention, the Honors Institute or the Advisor Institute, the requirement to participate at the international level can be met if the chapter submits an entry in the Honors Case Study Challenge. The deadline to submit a chapter entry in the Honors Case Study Challenge is November 3, 2015. Learn more at ptk.org/honors/casechall.

Also of note – Remind members about a key membership benefit: Scholarships! Phi Theta Kappa’s Fall Scholarship Application deadline is December 1, 2015. Learn more about scholarships at ptk.org/scholarships.



November/DecemberThis is a suggested timeline for Five Star Chapter Plan activities; many of these activities can be completed at any time.Note: The timeline lists activities related to all of the levels in the Five Star Chapter Plan, the level of an activity is indicated by the stars.

10

College Project Quick Reference Guide

The College Project is designed to help your chapter gain administrative support. How? By reaching out to the college administration to assist them in any project that supports your college. Phi Theta Kappa has developed a Community College Completion Corps toolkit that chapters may wish to present to their college president to implement a College Project related to this important initiative. Check to see if your state/region is participating in a statewide C4 initiative. The toolkit can be downloaded at cccompletioncorps.org. If your college president is looking for additional ideas, you’ll find more suggestions at ptk.org/fivestar.

Honors in Action Project Quick Reference Guide

For Honors in Action (HiA) — Phi Theta Kappa’s program – chapters combine academic inquiry, leadership, service-learning, collaboration and reflection within a project founded on the Honors Study Topic, Frontiers and the Spirit of Exploration. The Honors Program Guide is a comprehensive publication on the Honors Study Topic and Honors in Action. You can download an electronic copy at ptk.org/honors. It includes an Honors in Action Planning Model which can supplement the following list of steps:

HONORS IN ACTION

1. Read the Honors Program Guide and choose one of its nine themes. Keep reflective journals, minutes or notes at each step, describing the process used to select your theme.

2. Develop research plan and objectives. a. what process will be used for meeting your objectives? b. how will your research team work to collect, share and

analyze resources? c. what leadership roles will individual chapter members and

the chapter as a group fulfill in meeting these objectives?

3. Explore several sources about the Honors Study Topic theme to narrow your focus.

4 Investigate specific research question/focus of theme. Use at least 8-10 good-quality academic resources: e.g., academic or professional journal articles, books by academic/professional experts, and formal interviews with experts that highlight various ideas, perspectives and ways to approach the theme. Pay attention to the overarching question listed for your Theme. That will let you know whether, as you work through the Honors in Action process, your investigation fits the theme you have selected.

5. Analyze research and develop conclusions. Develop objectives or goals resulting from these research conclusions — what can the chapter do to address a specific need at the college or in the community?

6. Develop a plan of action and objectives. a. action component that addresses a need or needs at the

college or in the community; b. leadership actions and roles chapter members will undertake

and the specific leadership development training in which the chapter and its Honors in Action project team will participate in to successfully develop the project;

c. college, community and other groups with which the chapter will collaborate;

d. reflection and assessment of all parts of the Honors in Action process.

7. Carry out the plan. Evaluate regularly as you go and make adjustments as needed. Assess the results and consider future possibilities.

8. Write the results. Use your journal and judging rubrics for the Hallmark Awards (reflection) and submit the entry to Phi Theta Kappa Headquarters. ptk.org/hallmarks

1. Consult as a chapter with college administrators about projects that would help the college. Keep reflective journals, minutes, or notes during the meeting and through each of the following steps.

2. As a chapter, collaborating with administrators, choose a project and develop objectives and goals, a written process and strategies for carrying it out.

3. As a chapter, collaborating with administrators, complete the project.

4. As a chapter, collaborating with administrators, evaluate the results and future possibilities.

5. Write about the College Project — using your journaling — for the Hallmark Awards.

11

Quick Reference GlossaryWho’s Who?Advisors Faculty or administrative staff member appointed by the college

to guide the chapter’s operations; every chapter must have a contact advisor who receives all mailed communications from HQ; additional advisors are co-advisors

Associate Directors of Four headquarters staff ADs work side-by-side with regional Regional and Chapter leaders on advisor education, conferences, orientations, and Development (AD) setting regional goals; there is an AD for each Phi Theta Kappa Division

Association of Chapter Advisory body that every advisor belongs to automatically and Advisors (ACA) free of charge; advisors attending the NerdNation Convention elect ACA officers to represent advisors

Chapter Administrator College administrative staff member who oversees the chapter for the college

Chapter Officers Members elected to lead the local chapter; key responsibilities include promoting the benefits of membership and engaging in Phi Theta Kappa programming

Faculty Scholars Advisors who serve as seminar leaders at Phi Theta Kappa’s annual Honors Institute; selected in a competitive application process, they also attend a two-part Faculty Scholar Conference to prepare for the Honors Institute

Headquarters (HQ) Employees of Phi Theta Kappa’s international, central office Staff located at The Center for Excellence in Jackson, Mississippi

(800.946.9995); the Executive Director since 1985 is Dr. Rod Risley

Honors Program Chapter advisors selected in a competitive application process Council and Phi Theta Kappa Honors Program Department staff who

develop the biennial Honors Study Topic and assist with the compilation of the Honors Program Guide

International Officers Members serving at the highest level of student leadership; a President and four Vice-presidents (one from each of the four Divisions) elected by voting delegates for each chapter attending the NerdNation Convention; International Officers serve as ambassadors and advance the mission of Phi Theta Kappa for one-year terms

Key Services Four headquarters staff KSCs work directly with chapter Consultants (KSC) advisors, officers, and members to support chapter

implementation of programming and membership campaigns; there is a KSC for each Phi Theta Kappa Division

Regional Coordinators 30 Regional Coordinators support the mission of Phi Theta Kappa in partnership with headquarters staff to provide advisor guidance and education, convene regional conferences, train regional officers, and develop positive relationships with the region’s chapters and colleges; many Regions also have an Associate Regional Coordinator working closely with the Regional Coordinator and headquarters staff

Regional Officers Each of Phi Theta Kappa’s 30 Regions has a team of elected officers who support the Phi Theta Kappa mission; positions and responsibilities vary from region to region (contact your Regional Coordinator for more information)

What’s What?15 x 15 2014-2015 International Officer team goal to reach 15%

membership acceptance rate by the end of 2015; membership acceptance rate is the percentage of eligible students who accept their invitations to become members; average membership acceptance rate is 10%, meaning that 9 of 10 eligible members are missing the chance to affect their future success through scholarship opportunities and the Phi Theta Kappa Experience

Academy A pre-conference preceding the NerdNation Convention for personal and professional development and to enhance effectiveness within Phi Theta Kappa roles (advisors, officers, members)

Advisor Institute Annual training and networking event for advisors each fall

Chapter Bylaws Operational rules for the chapter established at chartering; revisions must be approved and filed with HQ

CollegeFish.org Resource to assist members with planning for transfer and facilitates degree completion; includes information on transfer universities, Phi Theta Kappa scholarships, and other scholarships

College Project A project that supports the chapter’s college, developed jointly with the college administration (see also p . 10)

Community College Phi Theta Kappa created this student-led initiative to raise Completion Corps awareness of the importance of college completion and to (C4) advance student success (cccompletioncorps.org)

Five Star Chapter Plan Guidelines for specific activities that lead to success and recognition in Phi Theta Kappa; often referred to as “5 Star” ptk.org/fivestar

Five Star Competitive Personal and professional development plan for members Edge that promotes college completion and career success, with

recognition for their level of participation (my.ptk.org)

Founders Day First chapter founded in 1918 at Stephens College, Columbia, Missouri; on November 19, 1929, the American Association of Community and Junior Colleges (now AACC) recognized Phi Theta Kappa as the national honor society for junior and community colleges; November 19 is now celebrated as Founders Day

Golden Key News An email newsletter for members and advisorsBriefs (GKNB)Hallmarks The tenets of the Honor Society: Scholarship – studying the Honors Study Topic and sharing

scholarly activities with others Leadership – taking leadership roles and developing leadership

skills Service – participating in service learning Fellowship – collaborating with members, college, community,

region, and/or beyond

Hallmark Awards Competitive awards program for chapters (Honors in Action & College Project) and individuals (Advisors, Officers/Members, College Administration)

Honors Case Study Follow newspaper coverage on current events related to the Challenge Honors Study Topic and enter the competition for an

international award, deadline is in early November (ptk.org/honors/casechall)

Honors in Action (HiA) Phi Theta Kappa’s program – chapters combine scholarship, leadership, service, and fellowship within a project founded on the Honors Study Topic

Honors Institute Annual, five-day intensive examination of the Honors Study Topic for members and advisors; Honors Institute takes place in June at a different 4-year university each year

Honors Presentations Recorded presentations by experts in topics related to the Honors Study Topic; login to my.ptk.org to view these presentations from the NerdNation Annual Conventions and Honors Institutes

Honors Program A study guide for Honors in Action which features the biennial Guide (HPG) Honors Study Topic

Honors Study Topic A study topic is developed every two years that is challenging, (HST) interesting, in the news, interdisciplinary, international, issue-

oriented, important, intellectual, and action-oriented; the topic for 2014 and 2015 is Frontiers and the Spirit of Exploration and is the basis of chapter research and exploration and the development of Honors in Action projects

Leadership A humanities-based curriculum developed by Phi Theta Kappa Development Program for use by chapters and for colleges to offer as a credit course, if

desired (with a Phi Theta Kappa Certified Leadership Instructor; leadership.ptk.org)

NerdNation The annual Hallmark Awards are presented, renowned speakers,Convention opportunities to meet college and corporate representatives

and attend educational presentations and workshops; nearly 4,000 attend each spring

Scholarships Over $1,000,000 distributed annually in scholarship opportunities for members through Phi Theta Kappa, and $37 million in Transfer Scholarship opportunities are available to Phi Theta Kappa members exclusively through 4-year College and University partners; all information at CollegeFish.org

12

Five Star Competitive Edge Every member can develop as a leader with Phi Theta Kappa’s Five Star Competitive EdgePlan for professional development. Learn more at ptk.org/competitive_edge.

Community College Completion CorpsThe C4 website features chapters that have organized events to raise awareness throughout the student body of the importance of completing a college credential. Report your C4 events at cccompletioncorps.org.

Your Honor Society

Your Region

Your College’s Chapter

You

Overview of Phi Theta Kappa Structure, Events and Opportunities

l More than 131,000 accept membership annually in more than 1,285 chapters in eight countries

l Each chapter belongs to one of 30 regions; regions are divided into 4 divisions

l International Headquarters Staffl Honors Program Council

(by application and selection)l International Officers (elected

members)l NerdNation Annual Conventionl Honors Institutel Honors Presentationsl Leadership Development Program

l Regional Coordinator (appointed by HQ)

l Regional Officers (elected members) l Regional Events

l Chapter Advisor(s) (appointed by the college)

l Chapter Officers (elected members) l Inductionsl Chapter Honors in Action Project and

College Project

Members:l Scholarship Opportunitiesl Five Star Competitive Edge l CollegeFish.org Advisors:l Faculty Scholar and Leadership

Certification Opportunities l Association of Chapter Advisorsl Advisor Institute

Recognition for Chapter Success The Five Star Chapter PlanLocal: A letter will be emailed to your college president

citing the significance of the chapter’s achievement in the Five Star Chapter Plan

Regional: The chapter will receive the award certificate during your region’s annual awards presentation in the spring

International: Achievement listed on Phi Theta Kappa’s website and at the Annual Convention

* Chapters are recognized for the highest level for which they completed AND reported all the requirements in addition to completing and reporting all the requirements of the levels below that highest level. The reporting deadline is January 28, 2015 (for 2014 activities) and January 27, 2016 (for 2015 activities). Report regular progress to HQ and your region at ptk.org/fivestar.

Hallmark AwardsThe Hallmark Awards, based on competitively-judged applications, recognize individuals, chapters and regions for excellence in the Society’s Hallmarks of Scholarship, Leadership, Service and Fellowship as exemplified through Honors in Action activities.

For the 2015 Hallmark Awards, chapters may write about their activities completed from January to December 2014. Entries for administrator award categories must have been completed online by December 10, 2014. Individual award categories (Chapter Member, Chapter Officer, Chapter Officer Team, Paragon Advisor, Distinguished Advisor, Continued Excellence Advisor, Regional Officer and Regional Officer Team awards) must be completed online by January 14, 2015. Chapter awards entries (College Project and Honors in Action Project) must be completed online by January 28, 2015. The 2015 Hallmark Awards will be presented at Phi Theta Kappa's Annual Convention in San Antonio, Texas, April 16-18, 2015.

For the 2016 Hallmark Awards, chapters may write about their activities completed from January to December 2015. Entries for administrator award categories must have been completed online by December 9, 2015. Individual award categories (Chapter Member, Chapter Officer, Chapter Officer Team, Paragon Advisor, Distinguished Advisor, Continued Excellence for Advisor, Regional Officer and Regional Officer Team awards) must be completed online by January 13, 2016. Chapter award categories must be completed online by January 27, 2016. The 2016 Hallmark Awards will be presented at Phi Theta Kappa’s Annual Convention in National Harbor, Maryland, April 7-9, 2016.

l Regional and International Chapter Awards – Compete for Honors in Action Project awards and College Project awards

l Regional and International Individual Awards – Nominate members, officers, advisors, college presidents and administrators

Follow us on

an introduction and quick reference guide for phi theta ... · an introduction and quick reference...

Documents