The Journey
A newsletter for chapter advisors, chapter officers, and regional officers.
May 2000 Issue
Old Friends, New Beginnings
Phi Theta Kappa advisor Ann Burkes and college president Dr. Eddie Smith received special recognition during the chapter's spring induction ceremony at East Central Community College in Decatur, Mississippi.
For the 78 newest members of the Theta Xi Chapter at East Central Community College in Decatur, Mississippi, their Phi Theta Kappa induction was marked with milestones. It was the last induction for long-time advisor Ann Burkes, as well Dr. Eddie Smith, President of East Central Community College. Burkes is retiring from Phi Theta Kappa after 19 years of service, and Dr. Smith is serving his last year as president of the college.
“Phi Theta Kappa has been such an important part of my life that it has become a part of who I am,” said Burkes. “Through Phi Theta Kappa I have made hundreds of new friends who I like to think of as my Phi Theta Kappa family. My Phi Theta Kappa students feel like my children, and I have been so proud of them as I watch them blossom into successful adults. I breathe Phi Theta Kappa. Sometimes I think the air is actually blue and gold before it makes it into my lungs!” laughed Burkes.
Burkes met Dr. Smith in 1963 when he was the chapter president of the Theta Xi Chapter. “Neither of us are planning to distance ourselves from Phi Theta Kappa,” added Burkes. “Dr. Smith and I would like to establish an alumni chapter here on campus, so we can give additional support to the student chapter.” The alumni chapter would also include the support of another longtime Theta Xi advisor, Dr. Shelby Harris, who retired last year.
Phi Theta Kappa welcomes two new advisors to the Theta Xi Chapter, Carol Shackelford and Tonya Kirk. Shackelford and Kirk have been working closely with the chapter for several months to ensure a smooth transition in their new leadership positions.