Ozarks Technical Community College’s honor society brings home awards

Representatives from Ozarks Technical Community College’s chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society for two-year colleges, recently returned from the organization’s 91st Annual International Convention with several awards in hand.  The College’s chapter was recognized as a Top 25 Chapter overall, having earned the rank of 6th out of more than 1,200 chapters internationally.  Additionally, the group earned the International Scholarship Hallmark award and the International Leadership award, both of which recognize the top 30 chapters in the world in their respective categories.

The College’s Phi Theta Kappa advisors were also honored at this year’s convention.  Academic Advisor Steve Fritts earned an International Paragon Advisor award, which is given to advisors serving less than five years.  Jo Fritts, division chair for the College’s Early Childhood Education program, received an International Distinguished Advisor award, which is given to advisors serving more than five years.

While at the convention, the chapter was also recognized as the chapter raising the most money for the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life over the course of Phi Theta Kappa’s involvement with the event.  Ozarks Technical Community College’s chapter has raised more than $40,000 for the American Cancer Society.

Phi Theta Kappa honors students who have a grade point average of 3.5 or higher, and places its emphasis on leadership, service, scholarship and fellowship.  Ozarks Technical Community College’s chapter of Phi Theta Kappa is among the top five largest in the state.  The international convention, held this year in Grapevine, Texas, drew more than 3,500 students and advisors from around the world.