CCCC’s PTK recognized as a 2024 REACH Chapter
SANFORD, N.C. – Central Carolina Community College's Beta Sigma Phi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) has been recognized as a 2024 REACH Chapter by the international PTK organization.
This prestigious honor celebrates the chapter's exceptional efforts in promoting PTK membership and engaging students in academic and service learning opportunities. The REACH Rewards program acknowledges chapters that achieve high rates of membership acceptance, thereby fostering student success and development.
PTK President and CEO Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner emphasized the significance of this achievement, stating, “PTK membership engages students beyond the classroom in academic and service learning. By increasing student engagement, we increase rates of student success.”
PTK is the premiere international honor society for two-year students. PTK’s mission is to “… recognize academic achievement of college students and to provide opportunities for them to grow as scholars and leaders.” The CCCC chapter, Beta Sigma Phi, was founded in Fall 2010. CCCC’s PTK chapter is one of over 1,246 chapters in 10 nations, and among 60 chapters in North Carolina.
PTK is guided by four hallmarks – Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Fellowship.
“Being part of Phi Theta Kappa is an incredibly rewarding experience — not just for our students, but for me as an advisor,” said Sarah Shannon-Mohamed, CCCC Director of Onboarding and New Student Programs – and PTK advisor. “My goal is to support our members to ensure they are able to get the most out of their experience, contributing meaningfully to their personal and academic success. For me, it is the students themselves who truly make this experience special. Seeing their growth and development through their engagement with PTK projects and initiatives is one of the most fulfilling aspects of my role.
“Our officer team’s dedication and hard work this past year have been the driving force behind our chapter’s success. Their commitment to growth ensures that students at CCCC can make the most of their time in PTK, taking advantage of leadership opportunities, scholarships, and community involvement. Receiving the REACH Reward Chapter recognition is a testament to our officer team's efforts in creating a strong, supportive PTK community. I’m incredibly proud of what they’ve accomplished and excited to see our chapter continue to thrive, providing even more students with the chance to excel, grow, and lead,” said Shannon-Mohamed.
The CCCC Phi Theta Kappa chapter has demonstrated a strong commitment to academic excellence and community engagement through active participation in various PTK initiatives. Notably, members attended the Honors Institute at Clemson University, an immersive learning experience where students and advisors delve into PTK's Honors Study Topics through enhanced educational activities that challenge conventional thinking and offer new perspectives. In addition, the chapter has been actively involved in PTK's Honors in Action and College Project initiatives.
“PTK has had a tremendous impact on my experience at CCCC, especially through my role as an officer. Being part of the leadership team has given me a strong sense of purpose, improving my confidence and ability to connect with others regarding the incredible opportunities this honor society offers,” said CCCC student Irelynn Strother. “Attending the Carolinas Region Summer Honors Institute in 2024 reinforced how PTK is more than just a line on a transcript — it is a community dedicated to meaningful projects that benefit both students and the wider community. The connections I’ve made have been the most rewarding part of my journey, and I am honored to be part of a chapter that continues to grow in membership and engagement.”
PTK members benefit from a wealth of resources, including access to millions of dollars in scholarships — $1.5 million in competitive scholarships through the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation and more than $246 million in transfer scholarships to over 850 four-year colleges through PTK Connect™.
Notably, 91% of PTK members complete an associate degree or transfer to a four-year college, significantly higher than the national average.
As a REACH Chapter, Beta Sigma Phi will receive special Phi Theta Kappa graduation stoles to be worn by chapter officers and members during commencement ceremonies, symbolizing their commitment to academic excellence and leadership.
