The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi—the nation’s oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines—recently recognized the Berea College chapter of Phi Kappa Phi as a Circle of Excellence Gold Chapter, the second-highest commendation a chapter can receive from the organization. The award is given to chapters that exceed expectations in chapter operations and who demonstrate sustainability and vitality as a chapter of Phi Kappa Phi.
The Circle of Excellence program was introduced in 2018. The program recognized 108 chapters this year, including 37 with the Gold distinction. Phi Kappa Phi currently has chapters on more than 300 select campuses in the United States and the Philippines.
“The Circle of Honor program recognizes Phi Kappa Phi chapters that have gone above and beyond to promote academic excellence on their campuses,” said Society Executive Director Dr. Mary Todd.
The Circle of Excellence Gold honor is given to chapters who scored a 95-99 out of 100 on a criteria scale that evaluates chapter health indicators. By receiving the Gold distinction, the Berea chapter is recognized as a thriving organization that holds annual initiations, upholds the Society Bylaws, regularly attends chapter training opportunities and submits a chapter-endorsed nominee to the Phi Kappa Phi Fellowship Program.
“It is a great honor to be awarded the Phi Kappa Phi Circle of Excellence Gold Status,” said Chris Thomas, chapter president. “Like the students inducted into Phi Kappa Phi, our local chapter seeks to excel too. I am thankful to work alongside a board that not only cares about students but strives for excellence.”
Chapters achieving the Circle of Excellence Gold distinction receive:
- a commendation letter from the Society sent to chapter officers and campus administration
- special recognition on the Phi Kappa Phi website
- specially-designed logo for use in chapter communications
- choice of a $200 cash award or applicable event registration grant