The Grenada Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa at Holmes Community College held its induction ceremony on April 14th in the Corey Forum, welcoming a new group of outstanding students into the prestigious scholarly fellowship.
Dr. Tina Garrett, coordinator of academic programs on the Grenada Campus, opened the program and welcomed guests. Katie Grace Ray, vice president of the chapter, shared the history and purpose of Phi Theta Kappa, noting that it is the largest honor society with more than 3.5 million members across the United States and 10 sovereign nations. Founded in 1918, the organization is dedicated to scholarship, leadership, service, and fellowship, and awards approximately $1.5 million in scholarships annually to its members.
During the ceremony, William Hobson, vice president, described the symbolism of the organization. A candle representing the torch of knowledge, a white rose symbolizing purity and the beauty of life, and the official emblem, featuring a golden slab and black band, each reflect the ideals of wisdom, aspiration, and purity that define Phi Theta Kappa.
Chapter President Lexi McClain delivered a charge to the inductees, encouraging them to uphold the values of the organization before inviting each new member to the stage for induction.
A special thank you was extended to Hannah Pierce, assistant director of transfer recruitment at Mississippi State University, for sponsoring the event and providing refreshments. During the ceremony, she also recognized Lexi McClain for receiving the Presidential Partnership Scholarship to Mississippi State University, a full-tuition award and a significant achievement.
PTK advisors for the Grenada Chapter include Cynthia Abel, Gabrielle Hopkins, and Haley DeNoon. Chapter officers are President Lexi McClain and Vice Presidents William Hobson and Katie Grace Ray.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, Cynthia Abel was honored for her 10 years of dedicated service as a Phi Theta Kappa advisor as she prepares to roll off this semester. Her impact on the Grenada Chapter and its students has been meaningful, and she will be greatly missed.
The ceremony celebrated the academic excellence and leadership of Holmes Community College students and marked the beginning of their journey as members of Phi Theta Kappa.
