By Dominic DiIorio

Staff Writer

MARPLE, Pa. – The Delaware County chapter of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), Alpha Tau Epsilon, held its first general meeting on September 25 from 11:10 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in room 2510 of Founders Hall. Chester County has its own chapter, Beta Psi Pi.

The meeting was led by chapter President Elif Isman, Vice President Shakia Gordon-Hutt, and ten other student officers. About 40 students attended and were greeted with music and free pizza. The officers introduced themselves and highlighted the organization’s four core values: scholarship, leadership, service, and fellowship.

“It’s a core value for PTK,” said Paulina Jaus, Vice President of Service, regarding the importance of service. “It helps us grow.”

The meeting also provided key information for new and prospective members. To join PTK, students must have a minimum 3.5 GPA and have completed at least 12 college-level credits. Invitations for the fall semester were sent to eligible students via email on September 15. The one-time membership fee is about $100.

A significant benefit of joining PTK is access to scholarship opportunities. Founded in 1918, the national organization connects members with a wide range of scholarships, including merit, need-based, and college-specific awards, all of which are available on the PTK website. The application deadline for fall transfer-focused scholarships is December 2, 2025.

Near the end of the meeting, Dionne Harrison, VP of Leadership, shared her story as a non-traditional student coming back to school last year. “I didn’t really think about how I could excel until I got that invitation from PTK.” She came to a meeting and joined through the support of a fee-waiver provided by the chapter to a select group of applicants. It encouraged her to join and now she is an active leader.