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

Transcription

1 An Introduction and Quick Reference Guide for Phi Theta Kappa Advisors and Officers Inside: Initial Action Lists... 2 Activate the Mission... 3 Chapter Leader Roles and Responsibilities... 4 Chapter Activities: January/February... March/April/May... June/July/August... September/October... November/December Project Guides Glossary Recognition and Opportunities ptk.org

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 onjalai.flake@ptk.org Ext Danya Stuart danya.stuart@ptk.org Ext DIVISION II Alabama, Florida (FL, BVI, Peru), Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi/Louisiana, Tennessee, Texas Courtney Lange courtney.lange@ptk.org Ext Melissa Price melissa.price@ptk.org Ext DIVISION III Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minn-Kota (MN, ND, SD), Missouri, Oklahoma/Arkansas, Wisconsin Mia Ramos-Shirley mia.ramos@ptk.org Ext Paige Still paige.still@ptk.org Ext 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 Banks dawneen.banks@ptk.org Ext Fredrica Packnett fredrica.packnett@ptk.org Ext Getting Started Advisors 1. 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 servantleaders. 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 Officers 1. 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 servantleaders. 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! 2

3 Translating the Mission into Action That 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: Phi Theta Kappa s Mission Activate the Mission Five Star Chapter Plan 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. ONE STAR CHAPTER Recognizing 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 CHAPTER Organized Chapter Leadership and Getting Started with Honors in Action THREE STAR CHAPTER Developing an Honors in Action Project and a College Project FOUR STAR CHAPTER Increased Presence on Campus and Increased Engagement in the Region FIVE STAR CHAPTER Further Involvement in the Region and in International Activities or Events 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. Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, Center for Excellence, 1625 Eastover Drive, Jackson, MS, 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. FPO 3

4 Chapter Leadership Roles Each 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 FOUNDATIONS Considered 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 ceremonies CHAPTER 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 ACTION In 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 president CHAPTER 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 PROJECT In 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 Project CHAPTER 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 REGION In 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 entries CHAPTER 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 EVENTS In 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) 4

5 January/February This 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 follow-up Submit the Chapter Annual Report (an online form; a link is ed 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, 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, Learn more at ptk.org/benefits/awards/mosal and ptk.org/benefits/awards/marshall. Regional information if applicable Event: Dates: Location: 5

6 March/April/May This 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. Convene chapter meetings twice monthly (one of the meetings can be a chapter officer meeting). 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. 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. 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, 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, Learn more about scholarships at ptk.org/scholarships. Regional information if applicable Event: Dates: Location: 6

7 June/July/August This 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 follow-up Convene chapter meetings twice monthly (one of the meetings can be a chapter officer meeting). Update chapter activities at ptk.org/fivestar. 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. 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. Regional information if applicable Event: Dates: Location: 7

8 September/October This 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. Convene chapter meetings twice monthly (one of the meetings can be a chapter officer meeting). Update chapter activities at ptk.org/fivestar. 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. 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, 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, 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, Learn more about scholarships at ptk.org/scholarships. Regional information if applicable Event: Dates: Location: 8

9 November/December This 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. 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. Convene chapter meetings twice monthly (one of the meetings can be a chapter officer meeting). Update chapter activities at ptk.org/fivestar (the last day to update chapter activities is January 27, 2016). 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. 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, 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, Learn more about scholarships at ptk.org/scholarships. Regional information if applicable Event: Dates: Location: 9

10 H 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: 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 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. 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. 10

11 Quick Reference Glossary Who s Who? Advisors Associate Directors of Regional and Chapter Development (AD) 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 Four headquarters staff ADs work side-by-side with regional leaders on advisor education, conferences, orientations, and 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 Chapter Officers Faculty Scholars Headquarters (HQ) Staff Honors Program Council International Officers Key Services Consultants (KSC) Regional Coordinators Regional Officers What s What? College administrative staff member who oversees the chapter for the college Members elected to lead the local chapter; key responsibilities include promoting the benefits of membership and engaging in Phi Theta Kappa programming 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 Employees of Phi Theta Kappa s international, central office located at The Center for Excellence in Jackson, Mississippi ( ); the Executive Director since 1985 is Dr. Rod Risley Chapter advisors selected in a competitive application process 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 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 Four headquarters staff KSCs work directly with chapter advisors, officers, and members to support chapter implementation of programming and membership campaigns; there is a KSC for each Phi Theta Kappa Division 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 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) 15 x 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 Advisor Institute Chapter Bylaws CollegeFish.org A pre-conference preceding the NerdNation Convention for personal and professional development and to enhance effectiveness within Phi Theta Kappa roles (advisors, officers, members) Annual training and networking event for advisors each fall Operational rules for the chapter established at chartering; revisions must be approved and filed with HQ 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 Community College Completion Corps (C4) Five Star Chapter Plan Five Star Competitive Edge Founders Day Golden Key News Briefs (GKNB) Hallmarks Hallmark Awards Honors Case Study Challenge Honors in Action (HiA) Honors Institute Honors Presentations Honors Program Guide (HPG) Honors Study Topic (HST) A project that supports the chapter s college, developed jointly with the college administration (see also p. 10) Phi Theta Kappa created this student-led initiative to raise awareness of the importance of college completion and to advance student success (cccompletioncorps.org) Guidelines for specific activities that lead to success and recognition in Phi Theta Kappa; often referred to as 5 Star ptk.org/fivestar Personal and professional development plan for members that promotes college completion and career success, with recognition for their level of participation (my.ptk.org) 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 An newsletter for members and advisors 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 Competitive awards program for chapters (Honors in Action & College Project) and individuals (Advisors, Officers/Members, College Administration) Follow newspaper coverage on current events related to the Honors Study Topic and enter the competition for an international award, deadline is in early November (ptk.org/honors/casechall) Phi Theta Kappa s program chapters combine scholarship, leadership, service, and fellowship within a project founded on the Honors Study Topic 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 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 A study guide for Honors in Action which features the biennial Honors Study Topic A study topic is developed every two years that is challenging, interesting, in the news, interdisciplinary, international, issueoriented, 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 Convention Scholarships The annual Hallmark Awards are presented, renowned speakers, opportunities to meet college and corporate representatives and attend educational presentations and workshops; nearly 4,000 attend each spring 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 11

12 Recognition for Chapter Success The Five Star Chapter Plan Local: Regional: A letter will be ed to your college president citing the significance of the chapter s achievement in the Five Star Chapter Plan 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 Awards The 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 Entries for administrator award categories must have been completed online by December 10, 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, Chapter awards entries (College Project and Honors in Action Project) must be completed online by January 28, The 2015 Hallmark Awards will be presented at Phi Theta Kappa's Annual Convention in San Antonio, Texas, April 16-18, For the 2016 Hallmark Awards, chapters may write about their activities completed from January to December Entries for administrator award categories must have been completed online by December 9, 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, Chapter award categories must be completed online by January 27, The 2016 Hallmark Awards will be presented at Phi Theta Kappa s Annual Convention in National Harbor, Maryland, April 7-9, Regional and International Chapter Awards Compete for Honors in Action Project awards and College Project awards Regional and International Individual Awards Nominate members, officers, advisors, college presidents and administrators 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 Corps The 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. Overview of Phi Theta Kappa Structure, Events and Opportunities Your Honor Society Your Region Your College s Chapter You More than 131,000 accept membership annually in more than 1,285 chapters in eight countries Each chapter belongs to one of 30 regions; regions are divided into 4 divisions International Headquarters Staff Honors Program Council (by application and selection) International Officers (elected members) NerdNation Annual Convention Honors Institute Honors Presentations Leadership Development Program Regional Coordinator (appointed by HQ) Regional Officers (elected members) Regional Events Chapter Advisor(s) (appointed by the college) Chapter Officers (elected members) Inductions Chapter Honors in Action Project and College Project Members: Scholarship Opportunities Five Star Competitive Edge CollegeFish.org Advisors: Faculty Scholar and Leadership Certification Opportunities Association of Chapter Advisors Advisor Institute Follow us on 12