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Olney Central College students Stephanie Blake and Caleb Thomas have been named to the All-Illinois Academic Team by Phi Theta Kappa, the international two-year college honor society.
Blake and Thomas, both of Olney, were selected from among community college students across the state on the basis of academic achievement, volunteer work, campus activities, honors and awards. The All-Illinois Academic Team initiative honors outstanding Illinois community college students and highlights the high-quality education provided by the 48 public community colleges and the six private two-year colleges in the state.
Recipients were recognized at the virtual All-Illinois Academic Team Banquet. Blake and Thomas will receive medallions and certificates by mail.
“I am extremely honored to have been chosen to be on the All-Illinois Academic Team,” Blake said. “When I began my back-to-school journey, I never really imagined I would be awarded something like this.” Blake, who graduates this month, plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in business at Eastern Illinois University and possibly continue her education with a master’s degree.
“I have enjoyed so many things about PTK,” Blake said. “I have appreciated being able to meet everyone that is enrolled and active within the PTK club. I was honored being able to swear in the new members at the induction ceremony this February. I am thankful to have led so many positive-impact projects within our community the past two years. I feel being an active PTK member has given me an advantage when applying for scholarships.”
Blake recently received a $1,000 Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship from EIU.
“I am grateful for being chosen to be on the PTK All-Illinois Academic Team,” Thomas said. “The thing I have enjoyed most about PTK is how flexible the program is with one’s schedule.”
Thomas will graduate this month with an associate in science and arts degree. He plans to transfer to the University of Southern Indiana and pursue a bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems.
“I chose OCC because of its affordability and because it is in my hometown,” he said. “The thing I love most about OCC is the size of the classes. It has allowed me to easily get help and create relationships with instructors.”
Blake said serving as PTK president and treasurer allowed her to acquire additional leadership skills that will continue to serve her in the future. She is proud of her accomplishments serving as a PTK officer and Student Senate Vice President.
“I believe I have made decisions and implemented ideas to better organize our PTK chapter and Student Senate at OCC,” she said. “I hope that the future presidents and officers of these clubs continue to grow these organizations and accomplish so many amazing things in the future.”
Blake is especially grateful to PTK Advisor Amie Mayhall.
“She has taught me many things within PTK, different ways to accomplish our goals, ways to engage in student involvement and so much more.” Blake said. “She is a fantastic leader and advisor. I wish we had more time to spend together, however my journey at OCC is coming to an end.”
