January 19, 2023
Pearl River Community College’s Beta Tau Gamma Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa on the Forrest County Campus recently nominated two chapter officers and one chapter member for Hallmark Awards – Phi Theta Kappa’s prestigious, highly competitive awards program recognizing individuals for excellence in PTK programming, priorities, and membership development.
Chapter President Tobias Adams and Vice President Benjamin Hartley were selected as Distinguished Chapter officers by their peers based on their demonstration of leadership and promotion of the Beta Tau Gamma chapter.
Carlo Catlett was voted the chapter’s Distinguished Chapter member based on his active participation in the chapter and because he embodies the Hallmarks of the Society – Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Fellowship.
“Our award-winning chapter has achieved a status of nationwide respect because of the work and dedication of outstanding students like these,” said Dr. Terri Ruckel, PRCC’s contact advisor for the Beta Tau Gamma chapter. “We are very proud of their accomplishments.”
Adams’ major is chemistry with a biochemistry emphasis. He currently serves as president for the Beta Tau Gamma chapter. He serves as regional webmaster for Phi Theta Kappa, vice president of the Student Government Association, a William Lewis Honors Institute council member, a River Navigator and membership in Mu Alpha Theta, Sigma Kappa Delta and the Science Club.
“It feels great to see the fruits of my labor from my persistent dedication throughout my journey,” Adams, 19, said. “I have enjoyed being involved in helping other students enjoy their experiences at PRCC.”
A graduate of Oak Grove High School, he plans to apply for an international PTK officer position, before transferring to either Mississippi State University, William Carey University or the University of Southern Mississippi.
Hartley, 19, also graduated from Oak Grove High School. He is a Dr. William Lewis Honors Institute member and will major in business when he transfers to a university from PRCC.
“This award is something that I did not expect and am truly happy to receive,” said Hartley. “In my mind, this award shows the effort that I put forward into making people feel welcomed in Phi Theta Kappa.”
Catlett, 21, graduated from Sacred Heart High School before attending PRCC and becoming a Dr. William Lewis Honors Institute and Sigma Kappa Delta member. He is a career-technical student and plans on completing the coding program at PRCC.
“I feel extremely honored to receive this award,” said Catlett. “I feel like I came a long way from where I was to get here today.”
His time as a student at PRCC has been rewarding. “What excited me about being here is forming bonds and relationships with others, as well as the abundance of opportunities to practice leadership.”
Besides Dr. Ruckel, other Beta Tau Gamma Chapter advisors are Dr. David Collum, Dr. Doug Donohue, Said Otwane and Dr. Ryan Ruckel.
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Article and photos by Chuck Abadie.
