On Sept. 28, Phi Theta Kappa held its 2011 Fall Induction Ceremony into the Beta Beta Psi Chapter of the internationally acclaimed honor society at Madison Area Technical College’s Truax campus. In total, 151 members were inducted, however, only about 70 members were present at the Mitby Theatre for the induction.
The prerequisite, as stated by present speakers, was for the newly found members to maintain a grade point average of 3.5 or higher, therefore placing those eligible in the upper one percent of all students currently enrolled at Madison College.
Benefits of being part of the honorary society include status on a resume, as well as a higher eligibility for scholarships, ergo increasing the chances of the ability for inductees to transfer to more prestigious schools.
Many speakers were present at the ceremony, including Phi Theta Kappa Advisor and Madison College Director of Student Life, Renee Alfano, and Tina Wegner, President of Phi Theta Kappa. Others included Frances Huntley-Cooper, Madison College District Board Chair, and Madison College Student Development Vice-President, Dr. Keith T. Cornille.
Of the speakers present, Terrance Webb, J.D., Madison College Provost, gave the speech that best summated the details regarding the purpose and existence of Phi Theta Kappa.
“This is a particularly significant year for your reception,” Webb said. “[Madison College] is celebrating its 100th year of existence.” The purpose of Phi Theta Kappa, Webb continued, is to observe and commemorate those who excel in their studies, even in light of varying hardships such as essential side jobs, other tasks relating to the fulfillment of financial concerns, handling any rising of unexpected family issues, and the general stress from the pressures to academically achieve.
Inductees recited the pledge, “I do solemnly promise to uphold the standards of Phi Theta Kappa, and I pledge allegiance to my fellow members and promise to aid them in all worthy endeavors.” It was encouraged by speakers that the inductees remain a tight knit group, aiding each other in all future events to come, even despite some of the inductees’ short terms left at Madison College.
As each new member’s name was announced, clapping and eventually cheers from the audience echoed throughout the theatre. A concession offering food and drink was held in the cafeteria following the ceremony.
The accomplishments of the inductees will hopefully inspire new students and veterans to excel in their studies, and inspire many to succeed academically.
“The more you challenge yourself to excel, the greater the rewards will be,” Webb said. He finalized his speech with, “Ladies and gentlemen, I’m here to tell you tonight that these are the rock stars of Madison College.”