(North Canton, OH – May 4, 2021) – Stark State’s Beta Gamma Epsilon Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society recently took home honors from the Ohio Region Awards Convention.

Stark State Phi Theta Kappa officer Andrea Young received Order of Athena, Regional President Award of Appreciation and Most Distinguished Chapter Officer Award nominee.

The College’s chapter also earned these honors:

• Five-Star Chapter
• 2021 Reach Chapter
• Shining Star Award for 17 years straight as a Five-Star Chapter
• College Project Hallmark Award – second runner up

Advisor Shari Brooks received the Dr. John Kesler Paragon Award for New Advisors at the Ohio Region level and the Paragon Award for New Advisors at the international level. The award goes to an advisor with less than four years’ experience as a chapter advisor whose inspiration, enthusiasm, dedication, and generous sharing of ideas, time, and energy have given outstanding support to chapter officers and members and have enhanced the image of Phi Theta Kappa.

Four Stark State College students were recognized among the state’s top students as they were named to the 2021 All-Ohio Academic Team. Elizabeth Martin, administrative office professional major; Ariel Stewart, accounting; and Mandy Paulus, dental hygiene, were among the state’s 75 best two-year community and technical college students. The students, named to the third team, each received a $250 scholarship along with a certificate, pin and medallion and were recognized at a virtual ceremony.

“Ohio’s community college students know that our campuses provide a welcoming environment for students to thrive and succeed,” said Jack Hershey, president and CEO of the Ohio Association of Community Colleges. “We are so proud of these students, our best and brightest, for their academic excellence and we look forward to seeing them become leaders in their careers.”

The All-Ohio Community College Academic Team provides statewide recognition to outstanding two-year college students and opportunities for cash scholarships. Students, nominated by their college, must have a minimum 3.5 cumulative grade point average. Selections are based on academic performance, demonstration of leadership and community service involvement.

The program is a collaboration by Ohio Association of Community Colleges, Phi Theta Kappa national honor society and Honda of America Mfg., Inc., the event sponsor.

Also, Brett Tipton, a digital video media technology major, was named a PTK New Century Workforce Pathway Scholar. The $1,250 scholarship recognizes the most outstanding workforce-bound student from each state. He spoke about his community college experience and post-graduation plans during the April 29 statewide virtual recognition event.