Building Leaders-RVCs-PTK-Chapter-Recognized-for-Excellence.php

Building Leaders: RVC's PTK Chapter Recognized for Excellence

• Students
• 06/12/2025

Omicron Eta, Rock Valley College's Phi Theta Kappa chapter, attended the Illinois Regional Convention and Honors Institute from May 30 to June 1 in Champaign, IL.

In addition to leadership training and seminars devoted to the Honors Study Topic, the event included the Regional Hallmark Awards Ceremony. Omicron Eta was recognized with several leadership awards. Caz Cruz and Sarah Greenlee received the Hall of Honor Officer Awards. These officers demonstrated excellent leadership skills and a command of Phi Theta Kappa programming. Additionally, Alyssa Aarvig received an Outstanding Member Award for her contributions to the chapter.

"One of the great things about being in Phi Theta Kappa is it allows students to develop leadership skills and to be recognized for their accomplishments by the honor society," said Phi Theta Kappa Advisor Tim Spielman. "The recognition validates their accomplishments and enhances their ability to get scholarships."

The chapter also received a College Project Award. Previously recognized with a "CC Smart Champion" Award at the International Convention, RVC Phi Theta Kappa's project showcased how Rock Valley College demonstrates that community colleges provide excellent opportunities and that attending one is a smart choice for students.   

Finally, RVC's Phi Theta Kappa chapter was recognized as a Five-Star chapter, with a notation of continuing merit. A Five-Star designation signifies that the chapter has reached the highest level of engagement in Phi Theta Kappa programs, including leadership development and honors programming. 

RVC student attendees Aurora and Allie shared their biggest takeaway from the convention was the importance of connecting with people. Allie noted that she did not realize how powerful it was to interact with the " wider Phi Theta Kappa community" until she attended the convention and met students from around the state.

The 2024-2025 Chapter Officers were Caz Cruz, President; Sarah Greenlee, Vice President of Service; and Joshua Crain, Recording Officer.  Tim Spielman serves as the chapter advisor.

Founded in 1918, Phi Theta Kappa is the official honor society of two-year colleges, recognizing the academic achievement of students at associate degree-granting colleges and helping them to grow as scholars and leaders. The Society is made up of more than 3.8 million members and nearly 1,300 chapters in 11 countries, with approximately 240,000 active members in the nation's colleges. Learn more at ptk.org