Colby Community College sophomores Jessica Houk and Gabriel Schriner joined 54 of their peers Feb. 15 in Topeka to be recognized at the Twenty-Third Annual Phi Theta Kappa Honors Luncheon.

Phi Theta Kappa is the honor society for students attending community and two-year colleges. Membership is based on high grade point averages and other criteria, with members focusing on scholastic achievement and service to community and campus.

Scholars are selected by their respective community colleges.

Houk, a graduate of Leyton High School in Dalton, Neb., is the president of the Colby PTK chapter. She is employed as a workstudy at H.F. Davis Library, a tutor in the Comprehensive Learning Center, and is active in Chi Alpha, the campus ministry. She was also a member of the 2016-17 track and field team. After graduating in May, her plans include transferring to Fort Hays State University to earn a bachelor’s degree. The business administration major intends to pursue a career in pharmaceutical sales and bring new pharmaceuticals to rural areas that are often forgotten.

Schriner is from Colby and graduated from Heartland Christian School. He volunteers at the College Drive Assembly of God and is actively involved with Chi Alpha. In addition, he regularly assists with the Genesis-Thomas County Food Bank. He will graduate from CCC in May and then transfer to Southwestern Assembly of God University to earn a bachelor’s degree in theology and worldview. Later, he intends to enter graduate school to pursue a master’s degree in apologetics. His long term goal is to be employed by Colorado-based Summit Ministries, a place where young adults can get a Godly view of controversial, contemporary topics.

The luncheon was held at the Topeka Ramada Inn Hotel. Houk and Schriner were accompanied by CCC president Seth Carter, Vice President of Student Affairs Dr. George McNulty, Vice President of Academic Affairs Brad Bennett, PTK advisor Vanessa Flipse and board member Arlen Leiker. Others in attendance were university representatives, legislators and members of the Kansas Board of Regents staff. The keynote was delivered Dr. Liang Chi Wee, president of Northeast Iowa Community College, who shared his history as an immigrant from Shanghai.

Each scholar was named to the 2017 All-Kansas Academic Team and presented with a medallion, certificate, and scholarship award from the presidents’ and trustees’ organizations. Additionally, each student is a nominee for the 2018 All-USA Academic Team, sponsored by the newspaper USA Today, Phi Theta Kappa, and the American Association of Community Colleges. First team members will receive a $2,500 stipend and be featured along with second and third team members in USA Today. Names of the students will be placed on the Society's website, www.ptk.org.