The South Mountain Community College Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) chapter recently received the honor of being recognized as a 2025 REACH Chapter by Phi Theta Kappa’s REACH Rewards program. In addition to this recognition, members and officers of SMCC’s PTK will receive Phi Theta Kappa graduation stoles to be worn during the ceremony in May, which further signifies their accomplishments in leadership and academics.
The REACH Rewards program was established to encourage year-round recruitment and student involvement in the honor society.
This reward is given to those chapters that achieve a 15% or higher membership acceptance rate. SMCC has maintained a growing student interest in the PTK chapter and has continued to expand its reach, as 60 students have joined since the fall of 2024.
“This recognition represents more than membership growth—it reflects a cultural shift grounded in two guiding frameworks we emphasize in our chapter: “We All Count, or None Counts” and “Nothing About Us, Without Us.” These principles center on student voice, inclusion and shared ownership of leadership and decision-making,” said Dr. L. Andrea Brownlee, SMCC PTK Advisor.
The designation also emphasizes the importance of the students’ successes within PTK and how their work directly impacts the community.
“This recognition validates students’ academic accomplishments while strengthening their sense of belonging, leadership identity and purpose. It encourages continued engagement in scholarship, service and storytelling initiatives that connect classroom learning to real community impact. Students see themselves not only as scholars, but as change agents prepared to contribute meaningful solutions within their communities and beyond,” said Brownlee.