The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi – the nation’s oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines – recently recognized the College of Charleston chapter of Phi Kappa Phi as a Circle of Excellence Platinum Chapter, the 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 32 with the platinum 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 Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi Executive Director Mary Todd.
The Circle of Excellence Platinum honor is given to chapters who scored a perfect 100 on a criteria scale that evaluates chapter health indicators. By receiving the platinum distinction, the CofC 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.
College of Charleston President Andrew T. Hsu became an honorary member of Phi Kappa Phi honor society when he was the dean of engineering at San Jose State University.
The current student vice presidents of the College’s chapter are Blaine Billings, Jesisi Davison, Emily Ramsayer, Aitana Rizzo and Tanner Crunelle.
“Our chapter is honored to receive this award in recognition of our work in promoting excellence and in engaging scholars at the College of Charleston,” said CofC computer science professor James Bowring, CofC’s Phi Kappa Phi chapter president.
