Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas (PCCUA) recently recognized the highest achieving students during the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Sigma Kappa chapter induction ceremony held on the Helena campus. The ceremony was directed by PTK advisor Dr. Tarsha Smith. This year’s event was particularly bittersweet, as it marked Dr. Smith’s final induction after 17 years of dedicated service to PTK and PCCUA.
Eighteen outstanding students from the Phillips County area were inducted, including Mohammed Alkarsh, Wesley Barringer, Stephan Billingsley, Joshua Caffey, Trinity Edgin, Taylin Esters, Alexus Franklin, QuaNeisha Hawkins, Marsella Mason, Zechariah Mondy, Semajah Pendleton, Gracie Pryor, Luke Pryor, Jasmine Rogers, Aubrey Tyler, Charleston Wallace, Climer Warren, and Tamaro Williams.
Sigma Kappa, established in 1967, is the oldest Phi Theta Kappa chapter in Arkansas. It recognizes academic excellence and fosters leadership and service. Inductees must achieve a minimum 3.5 GPA and complete at least 12 transferable college hours. Founded in 1918, Phi Theta Kappa is the oldest and most prestigious honor society serving two-year colleges worldwide. In 1929, the American Association of Community Colleges officially recognized PTK as the honor society for two-year colleges. Phi Theta Kappa continues to encourage and celebrate the academic achievements of two-year college students while offering opportunities for personal growth through leadership, honors, and service programming. Students invited to join PTK must rank in the top 20% of their class and maintain high academic standing throughout their enrollment.
