Herkimer College Student Elected to Regional PTK Office; Chapter Recognized
Herkimer College’s chapter of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) received an award at the PTK New York Regional Convention, held in Rochester, March 17-19, for “Most Distinguished Honors in Action.” The research project, “Teamwork Makes the Dream Work,” explored the theme of how the experience of play can serve as a catalyst for epiphanies, innovations, and inventions. The project was led by chapter president Kyle Poulos, Sanborn, NY, and featured the efforts of many active members. Poulos is a sophomore majoring in Criminal Justice, and he also serves as a student trustee on the Herkimer College Board of Trustees.
“When we work as a team, the outcome and product of whatever we're working on greatly improves,” Poulos said about his experience. “This project is a perfect example of our chapter coming together and producing something great."
Margaret Skourlis ’21, Queens, NY, who also attended the convention, was elected the northern vice president for the NY region. As a regional officer, Skourlis will be responsible for attending training, executing regional initiatives, and communicating with other districts, among other duties. Skourlis graduated with PTK honors, receiving her A.A.S. in Human Resources Management. She was also a 2019 recipient of the Mohawk Valley Society for Human Resource Management (MVSHRM) Student Scholarship Award. Skourlis returned to Herkimer College in 2023 to pursue her A.A.S. in Legal Studies.
Skourlis said she hopes to increase PTK participation and involvement in her new role.
“My biggest takeaway from the conference was how the region as a whole has many community colleges that are not utilizing PTK or participating enough in PTK,” Skourlis said. “What I hope to accomplish as a regional officer is to have an automatic transition for members upon graduating into the New York Regional Alumni Association. I also hope to bring honors students throughout the region closer together through Zoom and activity events, not only conferences. Networking is the key to entrepreneurship.”
The chapter also received recognition for achieving 5-star chapter status, which is the highest level of engagement in the international honor society. The five-star designation recognizes chapters for student engagement, both on campus and in the community. Earning the five-star designation is the most exclusive status a chapter can achieve.
"Congratulations to Kyle, Margaret, and the entire Chapter on these impressive accomplishments,” College President Dr. Cathleen McColgin added. "I am continually inspired by the drive and dedication of our students."
In 2022, 53 students accepted membership in the College’s Chapter. Herkimer College is among 464 PTK chapters nationally that have been recognized for membership growth.
Herkimer College student, Kyle Poulos, led his Phi Theta Kappa chapter’s research project, Teamwork Makes the Dreamwork, winning the Most Distinguished Honors in Action award at the regional PTK convention.
Margaret Skourlis ’21 (center), who has returned to Herkimer College to pursue legal studies, is sworn in as Phi Theta Kappa northern vice president for the New York region.