Pictured: Melody Mott, Jordan Chapin, Victor Diaz, Fatima Fuentes, Cade Bennett, Monse Rivero, and Michelle Calderon
Eight members of Alpha Mu Chi, NTCC’s chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, attended the PTK International Convention, known as Catalyst, in Columbus, Ohio. Attendees drove through the night Wednesday April 19, to arrive for the first opening session on Thursday April 20.
Jordan Chapin, as outgoing Texas Regional President, and Monse Riverro, as incoming District III Vice-President, both marched in the parade of flags, across the stage before thousands in the first General Session. Monse Riverro gave her introductory speech and helped run the Texas Regional Meeting at Catalyst. Keynote speakers at Catalyst included, among others, Geena Davis, Academy Award-Winning Actor, Founder & Chair, Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media.
At the international convention, the Texas Region won awards for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Transfer Readiness, and Chapter Engagement. Alpha Mu Chi members who serve as regional officers help with the write-ups. Jordan was pleased to note that the Texas Region won three awards, a first for the region.
Jordan stated “I was so happy to have the opportunity to attend PTK Catalyst. It was a different experience than last year and I felt like I was able to enjoy myself more! My favorite part was being the flag bearer in the first general session!”
Michelle Calderon commented “My first experience at Catalyst was one I’ll remember forever. The convention, ambience, and time spent with my friends made it incredibly fun and special. The speakers at the convention were outstanding and captivating. After a year full of fundraising and working hard, Alpha Mu Chi was able to bring members and alumni to Columbus, for this we thank Victor and our advisors. I can’t wait to share this experience with new members at the next one!"
Cade Bennett, a former District III Vice-President, also accompanied the group. “As an alumnus getting to come back again and feel the connection to the organization and members was really special. The convention itself was incredible, and the long drive there and back also made for a cool experience by getting to see so many things I wouldn’t have otherwise! I’m definitely looking forward to the next one.”
Phi Theta Kappa, founded in 1918, is the world’s oldest, largest, and most prestigious honor society for two-year colleges. It has chapters in the United States and 10 other nations. To find out more, go to www.ptk.org . To learn more about what Alpha Mu Chi, NTCC’s chapter of PTK has been doing, check out https://www.facebook.com/alphamuchi/
