The MiraCosta College Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Alpha Chi Lambda Chapter continues to excel among PTK chapters, receiving multiple awards and recognition during the 2024 PTK Catalyst held on April 4-6 in Orlando, Florida. The chapter's dedication to excellence and service was internationally recognized, earning prestigious awards for its outstanding achievements.

During the Hallmark Awards Gala at the 2024 PTK Catalyst, the chapter was honored with the prestigious 2024 Distinguished Honors in Action Project award. This recognition is particularly notable as only 50 projects worldwide received this esteemed award. The chapter's Honors in Action (HIA) Co-Coordinators, Jinhui Wang and Sylvie Tran, along with members Lehli Burke and Anh Tong, played instrumental roles in the success of this project.

“Winning the 2024 Distinguished Honors in Action Project award at PTK Catalyst is a tremendous honor for our chapter,” said Sylvie Tran, HIA co-coordinator. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and collaboration of our chapter members, student clubs, and professors.”

The winning project explored how childhood experiences impact career choices. Through research and collaboration, the project addressed barriers and proposed strategies. Utilizing survey data from California and Nevada, the project fostered collaboration among chapter members, student clubs, and professors, culminating in a workshop to present findings and encourage personal growth.

In addition to this outstanding achievement, the chapter ranked in the Top 100 Chapters out of 1,300 worldwide. With nearly 1,300 chapters in 10 countries and approximately 240,000 active members, this is a remarkable accomplishment and a testament to the chapter's commitment to excellence.

Additionally, the chapter received multiple awards at the earlier Nevada/California district meeting. The awards included the 2024 Distinguished Theme Award for Honors in Action, Theme 6 – Nostalgia as Play, the 2024 2nd Most Distinguished Honors in Action Award, and the 3rd Most Distinguished Chapter Officer Team Award. 

“These awards validate our hard work and inspire us to reach new heights,” said Lara Lobato, chapter co-president. “They'll inspire our future initiatives, showing that our efforts lead to tangible success and recognition. We will use this momentum to pursue even greater projects and impact within our college community and beyond.”

The chapter is no stranger to success, having repeatedly been named a Five-Star Chapter the last several years, the highest level of recognition a chapter can earn.

“The dedication and excellence of our 2023-24 executive officers and members are truly inspiring,” said longtime PTK Co-Advisor Dr. France Cruz. “They continue to raise the bar, embodying the true spirit of Phi Theta Kappa.”

Phi Theta Kappa is an international honor society founded in 1918 that recognizes and encourages the academic achievement of two-year college students. To qualify for membership, students must have completed at least 12 units with a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Membership offers access to scholarship opportunities, leadership development programs, and networking events, enhancing students' resumes and aiding their transition to four-year institutions or the workforce.

For more information about the MiraCosta College Phi Theta Kappa Alpha Chi Lambda Chapter, please visit miracosta.edu/ptk.

[Photos by Ryan Molina]