Phi Theta Kappa Charters Chapters in the Pacific Islands

Chartering ceremonies held recently at the College of the Marshall Islands and the College of Micronesia marked Phi Theta Kappa's continued expansion into the Pacific Rim.

Phi Theta Kappa's Institutional Advancement Officer and Alumni Program Coordinator Dana Van Deman visited both colleges and welcomed the chapters to the Society by presenting the charter plaques to the advisors and college administration.

"Phi Theta Kappa can serve as a change agent for these colleges and students," said Van Deman on her visit to the chapters. "Through scholarships and numerous other benefits, the students on the islands will have the resources necessary to continue their education."

The College of the Marshall Islands is located in Majuro in the Republic of the Marshall Islands. Dr. Frankie Harriss will serve as chapter advisor.

Approximately 40 attendees consisting of friends, family, campus administration and faculty members watched as the chapter inducted the 15 founding members. The College of the Marshall Islands president, Wilson Hess, and vice president, Dr. John Tuthill, also delivered speeches during the ceremony.

Although the concept of an honor society was very new to the students and the campus, Dr. Harriss says the new members are excited and ready to represent the Society on campus and in the community.

"After learning more about the organization during orientation and meetings, our members are very enthusiastic about establishing an effective and productive chapter," said Dr. Harriss.

The College of Micronesia's chapter held a similar ceremony to recognize its charter members.

Located on the island of Pohnpei in the Federated States of Micronesia, the College of Micronesia includes five different campuses located throughout the Caroline Islands. The new chapter will draw members from all campuses. Ringlen Ringlen will serve as advisor for the new chapter.

Twenty-seven members were inducted during the ceremony with approximately 250 family members, community leaders and individuals from the college community attending.

John Haglelgam, who served as the second president of the Federated States of Micronesia and is currently a professor at the college, presented the keynote speech at the ceremony.

Ringlen says the chapter anticipates additional members joining in the spring and summer.

Both the College of the Marshall Island and College of Micronesia will join Phi Theta Kappa's Pacific Region, which includes chapters in Hawaii, Guam and the Republic of Palau. The Pacific Region is part of Division IV.

Currently, Phi Theta Kappa includes more than 1,200 chapters in all 50 United States and U.S. territorial possessions, Canada, Germany, the Republic of Palau, the British Virgin Islands and the United Arab Emirates. Additional chapters are expected to be chartered in Belize, Trinidad and Tobago, Cyprus and Singapore.