Phi Theta Kappa Regional Awards

Regional Awards for Excellence – Membership Recruitment and Chapter Engagement

The purpose of the Regional Awards for Excellence is to highlight the work in the 28 Regions of Phi Theta Kappa. Regions may submit one entry in up to three categories: Scholarship; Leadership; Service; Fellowship; CCSmart; Transfer Readiness; Career Readiness; Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; Membership Recruitment; and Chapter Engagement. Entries should be written by regional officers in collaboration with the regional coordinator, associate regional coordinator, and/or regional advisory council/board. Up to five awards in each category may be presented during PTK Catalyst.

Five Star region

The Regional Five Star Plan is Phi Theta Kappa’s official framework for recognizing excellence and engagement at the regional level. Just like chapters, PTK regions can earn star rankings—up to Five Star status—based on their overall participation, leadership, and support of chapter development.

• A region achieves Five Star Status by completing a series of initiatives that promote:
• Strong leadership through active regional officers and advisors
• Support for chapters to grow and advance through the Five Star Chapter Plan
• Engaging programs and events, such as conferences and workshops
• Communication and collaboration across the region
• Promotion of PTK’s core programs, including Honors in Action, the College Project, and scholarship opportunities

Distinguished Regional Officer Award

The Distinguished Regional Officer Award recognizes a Phi Theta Kappa regional officer who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, commitment, and service throughout their term. This prestigious honor is awarded to individuals who go above and beyond their official duties to support regional growth, foster teamwork, and engage chapters across the region.

Nominees are evaluated on their:

• Knowledge of PTK’s mission, history, and major programs, including Honors in Action, College Project, PTK Edge, and the Five Star Chapter Plan
• Understanding and performance of their officer responsibilities as defined by the Regional Officer Honor Code
• Effective communication with the Regional Coordinator and fellow officers
• Active support of chapters, including outreach, mentoring, and promoting chapter participation in regional and international initiatives
• Visibility and leadership at regional meetings and events, both in person and virtually
• Dedication to PTK’s Hallmarks of Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Fellowship
• Contribution to regional goals and overall impact on the region’s development

To be considered for this award, a regional officer must not only fulfill their responsibilities but demonstrate initiative, collaboration, and inspiration, serving as a role model for PTK members across their region.

Alumni Hall of Honor

The Alumni Hall of Honor is one of Phi Theta Kappa’s most prestigious recognitions for alumni, celebrating individuals who have made a significant and lasting impact on chapters, regions, and the lives of PTK members.

This award honors alumni who continue to serve and support Phi Theta Kappa well beyond their time as students—through mentorship, leadership, and advocacy that uplifts the Society at every level.

Key Criteria:

• Nominees must have held Phi Theta Kappa alumni status for at least three years
• Alumni are recognized for their positive contributions to chapters, regions, or individual members
• Nominees do not need to be affiliated with an Alumni Association
• Each chapter and region may nominate one alumnus annually
• An alumnus may only receive this award once
• Current members of the Alumni Advisory Board are not eligible during their term
• Recipients of the Alumni Appreciation Award and the Board of Directors Alumni Award will be included as legacy inductees

Up to 28 recipients are selected annually—one per region—making this award both competitive and meaningful. Induction into the Alumni Hall of Honor reflects a deep commitment to PTK’s values and a continued legacy of leadership and service.

Paragon Award for New Presidents

The Paragon Award for New Presidents is one of Phi Theta Kappa’s highest honors presented to college presidents or campus CEOs who have served in their current role for three years or less. This award recognizes exceptional new leadership and a president’s early and impactful support of student success through Phi Theta Kappa.

Nominees are evaluated based on how they:

• Elevate Phi Theta Kappa’s visibility and accessibility on campus
• Promote a culture of academic excellence, recognition, and engagement
• Invest in student growth through leadership opportunities, scholarships, and support for travel
• Support chapter advisors, ensuring they have time, space, and resources to thrive
• Actively engage with the chapter through meetings, inductions, and project support
• Advocate for PTK beyond the campus, including support for scholarships and participation in regional and international programs

This award is student-nominated and honors presidents who have embraced the values of Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Fellowship, and who demonstrate a strong commitment to equity, opportunity, and access in higher education.

Up to 25 college presidents or CEOs are selected for this distinction each year, making the Paragon Award a prestigious affirmation of a leader’s student-centered approach and lasting influence in the earliest years of their presidency.