Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society

The Honor Society for Community College Students

Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) International Honors Society is recognized as the official honor society for community colleges by the American Association of Community Colleges. Its aim is to help students excel in the areas of academics, leadership, service, and fellowship.

PTK International recognizes and rewards high-achieving students and provides opportunities through Honors in Action and the Five Star Competitive Edge to develop such critical skills as problem solving, project planning, team building, effective communication, and conflict resolution. These skills can give you a competitive edge when planning for transfer or applying for jobs.

Membership

Hawkeye is a local chapter of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK). Participating in Hawkeye's PTK chapter does not require students to join PTK International and joining PTK International does not require participation in Hawkeye's chapter. However, we encourage participation in both to maximize the benefits.

Students in all degree programs are eligible to become members of Hawkeye's PTK chapter when they have completed 12 credit hours in a program (does not include success courses) with a cumulative GPA of 3.25 or higher. Eligible students will receive an email letter of invitation from the Hawkeye President to join.

Hawkeye's PTK chapter meets weekly to discuss ideas, collaborate on projects, listen to guest speakers, share vital information on projects, and hang out and make friends. Contact the Faculty Advisor for specific meeting dates and times.

Members can also join the Honors-PTK Canvas page where we will post additional information and updates. Watch your Hawkeye email for an invite.

Eligible students can also join PTK International, which requires a separate application and one-time $90 fee.

By joining PTK International, students have access to scholarships, regional and national conferences, and online and in-person workshops.

Why join PTK? See the Benefits

Formal induction is held during the spring semester for new fall and spring members. Family and friends are encouraged to attend the induction. For more information, contact the PTK Hawkeye chapter faculty advisor.

Hawkeye has designed the Honors Program and our Phi Theta Kappa chapter with a flexible structure that can support students in many different, changing circumstances, with different schedules, and with different needs.

If you wish to participate in service projects or help come up with a new service project, we will support you. Scholarships and funds are available to support projects and Hawkeye faculty are eager to work with all interested students!

Students can receive course credit for service projects in a variety of ways, depending on their needs and circumstances through the Honors Program.

Current and Past On Campus Group Service Projects

  • Developed the Hawkeye Student Food Pantry over the course of several years. The Hawkeye Student Food Pantry is now run by the Foundation.
  • Student led mental health support groups overseen by Hawkeye's Mental Health Specialist, Deanna Shafer.
  • Annual Food and Toy drives for campus and community.
  • Cards for the Holidays, homemade, signed, and sent to shut-ins and others who need cheer during the holidays.
  • Blood drives on campus each semester.

Current and Past Individual or Small Group Service Projects Designed by Students

  • Collecting books for young readers
  • Art projects for the House of Hope
  • Earth Day events on campus
  • Giving time at the Hawkeye Food Pantry

If you are interested in PTK, you may also be interested in Hawkeye's Honors Program.

Participating in the Honors Program is not required to participate in Hawkeye's Phi Theta Kappa chapter, but is encouraged to maximize benefits.

Discover the Honors Program

Students who join Phi Theta Kapp (PTK) International will likely receive a very generous scholarship when they transfer to a new school. Most colleges and universities, including the University of Northern Iowa, offer at least $2,000 to all PTK International members when they transfer, typically $1,000 per year for two years.

To be eligible for the UNI PTK scholarship, here’s what you’ll need to do:

The application deadlines are May 1 for fall semester and December 1 for spring semester.

UNI PTK Transfer Scholarship International PTK Scholarships

All Phi Theta Kappa members are eligible to wear Honors regalia at the commencement ceremony.

To purchase your honors regalia, please stop by the Foundation office, Hawkeye Center 224, or reach out to Jenny Hoover at 319-296-4002 or email Jenny.

  • Stoles: $23
  • Nursing Stoles (for Nursing Students): $23
  • Cords: $12
  • Tassels: Free

As a member of PTK you will receive a special PTK seal on your diploma to recognize your dedication to scholarship, leadership, service, and fellowship. To receive this recognition, you must:

  • Be an active PTK member in good standing.
  • Meet the eligibility requirements set by Hawkeye's chapter of PTK.

Club Contacts

Club Advisor

Tim Adamson
Main Campus
Black Hawk Hall 104
319-296-2329 ext.1449
Email Tim Adamson

Student Activities

Main Campus
Brock Student Center
319-296-4027
Email Student Activities

Regular Hours — Spring 2025

Monday – Thursday 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Friday 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM