Halifax Community College’s Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society has inducted 20 new members.  

An induction program, which featured keynote speaker Taneka Cumbo, was held in November.

Cumbo, a native of Potecasi, earned her licensed practical nursing diploma and associate degree in nursing from Halifax Community College. 

Cumbo told the inductees, “Perseverance means not giving up. It means the effort required to do something and keep doing it until the end, despite difficulties or setbacks.”  

Cumbo is pursuing her master of science in nursing and works for one of North Carolina’s mental health hospitals.

The new members are Jerry Altamirano, Discia Ashe, Jada Barber, Serenity Barnes, Victoria Bobbitt, Ayden Brantley, Landyn Clippard, Morgan Dickens, Kamryn Dixon, Austin Fender, Melody Freeman, Shaelyn Johnson, Samantha Manning, Nevaeh Parker, Devance Purnell, Alyssa Richardson, Markayla Tann, Trequan Watson, Gabrielle Williams, and Zachyra Worley.

PTK co-advisors Gary Redding and Ellen Divens said that PTK inductees must have a 3.5 or higher GPA, 12 credit hours towards an associate degree, and be in good academic standing.

PTK’s recent activities and workshops have included a cover letter, resume, and dress for success workshop, college transfer workshop, physical and mental fitness forum, and donation drive for local youth.

Barbara Hasty, vice president of enrollment management and student services, also encouraged the PTK inductees to continue to persevere through their educational journeys.

HCC President Patrena Elliott expressed how proud she was of the PTK inductees in her closing remarks. “You are extraordinary students who illustrate that academic excellence is demonstrated and proven inside and outside of the classroom.”

Established in 1918, Phi Theta Kappa has a presence on almost 1,300 community college campuses in 11 nations.