Press contact: Kyla Kruse

SPRINGFIELD — Student leaders from Lincoln Land Community College’s Alpha Epsilon Kappa chapter of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society attended Catalyst, PTK’s international convention, in Orlando, Fla., April 4-6. LLCC’s chapter was named one of PTK’s Top 100 Chapters for the first time in chapter history, placing it in the top 8% of all PTK chapters internationally.

Dr. Gillian Bauer of Springfield was awarded a Paragon Award for New Advisors, which recognizes significant contributions to chapter and individual member growth by an advisor with less than four years of experience. Olivia Marchizza of Auburn was recognized as a Coca Cola New Century Transfer Pathway Scholar, and chapter president Isaac Barrett of Sherman, who also serves as the PTK Illinois Region central vice president, represented the Illinois Region on stage during the convention’s opening session.

Catalyst attendees had the chance to network and connect with students from the other 1,247 active chapters across the U.S. and other countries. LLCC’s student team attended sessions ranging from identifying leadership styles to knowing worth in the workplace. Students also heard motivational speakers and experienced the election and campaigning of PTK’s new international officer team. 

PTK is the foremost honor society recognizing academic excellence in two-year college students. Its goals include promoting scholarship, leadership, fellowship and service. The honor society is open to students enrolled at LLCC who have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 and who have completed at least 12 hours of college coursework. LLCC’s Alpha Epsilon Kappa chapter has maintained five-star status, the highest status available, within the PTK organization since 2013. LLCC’s PTK chapter is advised by Dr. Bauer, professor of English, and Ryan Roberts, professor librarian.