About Phi Theta Kappa
Phi Theta Kappa is the International Honor Society of the two-year college. Since 1918, Phi Theta Kappa has recognized academic excellence. More than 3.1 million members have been inducted into the society at 1,285 colleges in the United States, Canada, U.S. territories, and military installations abroad. Some famous alumni include Jeanne Kirkpatrick, former UN Ambassador; H. Ross Perot, entrepreneur and Presidential candidate; Jim Lehrer, host of PBS News Hour; Fred Haise, Apollo-13 astronaut; H Ben Kinchlow, host of 700 Club; and Sela Ward, Emmy Award-winning actress.
Membership in PTK opens the door to several opportunities, including:
- Scholarships: Access over $90 million in scholarship opportunities to continue at a two-year institution or transfer to a four-year college.
- Leadership and Service: Opportunities to participate in leadership development programs, service projects, and chapter initiatives that positively impact the college and community.
- Networking: Connecting with fellow high-achieving students, faculty, and alumni worldwide.
- Recognition: You’ll receive a membership certificate, the opportunity to wear honor regalia at graduation, and national recognition for your academic success.
Alpha Nu Omega (ANO) is the local chapter of Phi Theta Kappa at Harrisburg Area Community College. It was founded on April 10, 1988, by Dean Thaddeus Sampson, who remained chapter advisor until his retirement in June 2012.
The ANO chapter is an award-winning Five Star Chapter with a strong student excellence and service legacy. Some highlights include:
- Multiple All-Pennsylvania Academic Team winners
- Over $500,000 in scholarships awarded to members in the last three years (since 2022), including:
- Over 630 service hours contributed in just the last two years (since 2023)
- Several members currently serving or having served in Student Government Association leadership roles
To be eligible for full membership in the Alpha Nu Omega chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, you must be enrolled in a program at HACC leading to an Associate's Degree, have completed 12 credits that count toward the degree, have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher, and be a student in good standing. Each semester, the chapter advisors and the Dean of Students' office send invitations to all eligible students, giving them information about the next orientation and induction.
Why should I join Phi Theta Kappa?
Becoming a member of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), the premier international honor society for two-year colleges, opens the door to a world of opportunity and recognition.
- Gain over $90 million in transfer scholarships—available only to PTK members—through partnerships with more than 700 four-year colleges and universities. Local partner examples include institutions like Lebanon Valley College.
- PTK members boast a 91% graduation rate, far exceeding the national average. Your membership signals academic excellence and a commitment to success.
- Become part of a prestigious community of over 3 million scholars worldwide, shaping the future across industries and disciplines.
- Apply for PTK’s exclusive, internally funded scholarships, such as:
- Leaders of Promise – for students completing their associate's degree
- Guistwhite Scholarship – for those transferring to complete a bachelor’s degree
- All members are honored with:
- The Golden Key Membership Pin
- A Certificate of Membership
- Official notation on your college transcript
- Eligibility to affix the Gold Diploma Seal to your degree
- Show your pride at graduation by wearing PTK’s honors regalia, including the gold stole and tassel, which are available exclusively to members.
Your hard work deserves to be recognized. Join Phi Theta Kappa and turn your academic success into a launchpad for your future. If you have any questions, please contact PhiThetaKappa@hacc.edu
