For Rowan College of South Jersey’s (RCSJ) Alpha Psi Pi chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) honor society, an unwavering commitment to one another throughout a year of virtual education – and to their chapter’s goals – has proven to be rewarding.

The Alpha Psi Pi chapter and their advisors, Shawn Rutter and Jackie Thomasson, began the spring semester with a reason to celebrate – their designation as a “5-Star Chapter” for the second consecutive year. As the premiere international honor society recognizing students at associate degree-granting colleges, PTK provides scholars the opportunity to grow and encourages dialog with college leadership and active participation in the college community.  A 5-Star status is the highest level of achievement a chapter can attain for their participation on campus and in local, regional, national, and international activities.

“This is my first full year as a Phi Theta Kappa advisor,” said Thomasson. “The officers and members of Alpha Psi Pi have surpassed my expectations and impressed me in so many ways.”   

As part of their efforts to earn the 5-Star designation, the chapter completed an “Honors in Action” project that involved research, problem-solving and efforts to educate the community. They addressed the question: “Are Individuals Raised to Criticize People Based on Stereotypes?” After much research and discussion, one theme was clear – people are not always aware of the stereotypes they hold. Students took it upon themselves to create an eye-opening video to expose this issue, which has been shared across multiple RCSJ platforms.

The Alpha Psi Pi chapter was also a recent recipient of the “Recognizing Excellent in Acceptance and Completion with Honors (REACH) Reward.”  This program recognizes the recruitment efforts of chapters that grow their membership over the academic year.  Currently, the Alpha Psi Pi chapter has more than 240 active members. 

“We were really excited to achieve this honor,” remarked Rutter. “Enhancing our membership during this past year was challenging to accomplish while the campus was offering a remote learning environment. The Alpha Psi Pi chapter’s continued growth is a credit to the enthusiasm and dedication of its officers and members.”

For information about Alpha Psi Pi and how to become a member visit RCSJ.edu/PTK or view Phi Theta Kappa’s international website at PTK.org.