Tuesday, May 31, 2016

Buy a PC, Get a Free TV from Dell

In the market for a new PC? For a limited time, Phi Kappa Phi members are eligible to receive a free 32” Samsung TV when purchasing select Dell PCs valued at $699.99 or more.

As an added benefit, Dell PCs come with one year Accidental Damage Service included. Members can also enjoy 5% back in rewards and free second business day shipping when joining Dell Advantage Rewards for free at checkout.

Click here to learn more about the Phi Kappa Phi – Dell Member Purchase Program and start shopping today! Please note you must be logged in with your Phi Kappa Phi credentials to access this page.

For more information about this limited-time offer, click here. And learn more about additional Dell offers currently available to members.

If you need assistance accessing any of the discounts, please contact Angie Lex at Angie_Lex@Dell.com or Jamie Chapman at jchapman@phikappaphi.org.

Friday, May 20, 2016

Executive Director's Blog – Going for Gold

From the Executive Director
Forum, Summer 2016

Each year I am invited by a few chapters to speak at their initiation ceremonies. I always learn
something on these campus visits — the diversity of higher education institutions assures great variety in the venues of the events, the formality (or informality) of campus cultures finds some chapter officers in academic regalia while others dress more casually, and the obligatory food options range from cookies or a sheet cake to hot hors d’oeuvres or even sit-down banquets.

No matter the differences from campus to campus, what they have in common is the language of the official ritual of initiation, a script that imparts the history and symbolism of Phi Kappa Phi to its newest members along with the recognition they have earned by their academic achievements. The overarching theme is celebration of excellence.

I believe strongly that public recognition of academic excellence is not only important but essential. I don’t think we do it nearly often enough. We certainly don’t need to wait for an elaborate event to celebrate academic excellence — it can be a daily practice. The faculty member in the classroom who affirms a student’s contribution to class discussion, the student who high-fives a classmate after a strong presentation, the tutor who delights in seeing a breakthrough in a struggling student with whom she’s been working — the message in each case is positive, whether the words are “well done!” or “good work” or simply a grin, thumbs up, or the letter A.

Public events celebrate the academic achievements of a college’s best students; the initiation script reminds us that once inducted into Phi Kappa Phi, you remain a member the rest of your life. Membership provides a ready-made network of equally talented peers, a résumé boost, career connections, and resources to support you in the lifelong learning that higher education promotes.

The theme of this issue of the Forum is sport. This summer, the Games of the XXXI Olympiad will be hosted by Rio de Janeiro. Some people will watch for the entertainment of the opening ceremony. Others watch to cheer on their national team. I watch more to learn the personal stories of the athletes than to follow the athletic contests. That’s why I’m glad the TV coverage includes the medal ceremonies at the conclusion of a competition. Whether winning gold, silver, or bronze, the best athletes always seem so very much in awe of their accomplishments and so very, very proud, especially the gold medalists who hear the national anthem of the country they represent played as its flag is raised.

The medallions (or honor cords or stoles) of The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi are the Olympic medals of higher education. Like Olympic champions, I expect some of our newest members are in awe of their accomplishments. You only have to read their Tweets and Facebook posts to know how proud they are of the honor Phi Kappa Phi membership bestows.

Nearly four years ago, in my first column in these pages, I wrote these words: I believe we have not only the opportunity, but an obligation, to call for a revaluing of the notion of honor — what does it mean in today’s world to be an honor society? John Gardner’s small book, first published in 1961, simply titled Excellence, might offer a starting point. Gardner believed that while everyone has a potential for excellence, “Some people have greatness thrust upon them. Very few have excellence thrust upon them. They achieve it.”

Those people are the academic champions we call Phi Kappa Phi members.

-Mary Todd, Executive Director



Monday, May 16, 2016

Phi Kappa Phi Awards $100,000 Excellence in Innovation Award to Tulane University

The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi today announced Tulane University as the inaugural recipient of its $100,000 Excellence in Innovation Award. The award, given once per biennium, recognizes Tulane for achievement in finding powerful solutions to local, regional, national and global challenges through the university’s Phyllis M. Taylor Center for Social Innovation and Design Thinking.

Founded in 2014, the Taylor Center is a university-wide initiative that implements a range of academic, co-curricular and research opportunities through programming that includes community partnerships, student-led activities, visiting professors, student fellowships, service-learning components, award programs and social ventures. Each facet of the Taylor Center, exemplified by its transdisciplinary methods, works together to provide sustainable solutions to challenges faced in the environment, society, education, health care and beyond.

“Phi Kappa Phi is delighted to recognize Tulane University with its first Excellence in Innovation Award,” said Society Executive Director Mary Todd. “The Phyllis M. Taylor Center’s emphasis on the interdisciplinary intersection of thought and action reflects Phi Kappa Phi’s own multidisciplinary nature, while engaging Tulane students and faculty in creative applied learning both on and beyond their campus.”

Tulane, on behalf of its efforts with the Taylor Center, was selected as the inaugural recipient of the Excellence in Innovation Award by a jury of emeritus presidents and provosts during a two-part screening process. The university was first selected as one of six semifinalists before advancing as a top three finalist. The pool of entries represented inventive, multifaceted projects at institutions across the United States. Each institution was assessed on its project’s ability to achieve meaningful, measurable outcomes to create systemic large-scale change.

"We are thrilled to receive this honor which recognizes Tulane's efforts to educate and inspire its students and researchers to pursue world-changing ideas and innovation," said Tulane President Michael A. Fitts.

Tulane will accept the award in person at Phi Kappa Phi’s Biennial Convention in Atlanta, Ga., on July 30.

Since 1933, Phi Kappa Phi has awarded fellowships and grants to members and students on its chapter campuses. Currently, more than $500,000 is awarded annually through programs that last year recognized over 270 individuals. The Excellence in Innovation Award is the Society’s only award for collegiate institutions. The program launched in September with an invitation to 1,600 regionally accredited baccalaureate or higher degree-granting four-year colleges and universities.

The call for submissions for the 2018 Excellence in Innovation Award will open in the fall of 2017. For more details and to see the finalists’ portfolios, please visit www.phikappaphi.org/innovation.

About Phi Kappa Phi
Phi Kappa Phi annually inducts approximately 30,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni. The Society has chapters at more than 300 select colleges and universities in North America and the Philippines. Membership is by invitation only to the top 10 percent of seniors and graduate students and 7.5 percent of second-term juniors. Faculty, professional staff and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction also qualify. The Society's mission is "To recognize and promote academic excellence in all fields of higher education and to engage the community of scholars in service to others." For more information about Phi Kappa Phi, visit us here.

Career Resources for Members

Are you a recent graduate starting your job search? Let Phi Kappa Phi help! We offer many resources to assist members in the development and advancement of their careers. From the Career Center to the career guidance podcast series, we provide our members resources to jump-start their careers!

  • Career Center – Job seekers can post résumés, search job openings and apply for jobs; while employers can use the site to find and recruit top talent and post available positions.
  • Career Corner – Join other Phi Kappa Phi members to share job search strategies, interview tips and all-around career advice in this exclusive Link community.
  • Career Guidance – Watch podcasts and get advice on interviewing, networking, writing a winning résumé and dealing with stress.
  • Logo Graphics – Proudly display your Phi Kappa Phi membership on your résumé by including an official Society logo.
  • Membership Verification Letter – Verify your membership in the nation's oldest and most selective all-discipline honor society with a letter from the Executive Director.
  • SeekingSuccess.com – As a Phi Kappa Phi member, you can save $75 on a SeekingSuccess.com résumé and LinkedIn profile writing package. 

Wednesday, May 11, 2016

Mark Your Calendar! Special Brooks Brothers Event for Members

Mark your calendars for the Brooks Brothers Summer Shopping Event next Wednesday, May 18! Phi Kappa Phi members can receive 30% off regularly-prices purchases during the one-day event.

To receive the discount in store, you must sign up for a complimentary Brooks Brothers Corporate Membership Card by visiting Membership.BrooksBrothers.com or calling 1.866.515.4747 with the organization ID#: 11755 and pin code: 61431.

To receive the discount online, members must create a separate Corporate Member profile, even if you already have an existing Brooks Brothers profile. Please allow 20 minutes after you receive your email confirmation before creating your online Corporate Member profile. Register for your separate Corporate Member profile here.

Brooks Brothers, the oldest clothing retailer in the U.S., offers classic clothing for men, women and children. Visit www.brooksbrothers.com for more information.


If you have additional questions, please contact Jamie Chapman at jchapman@phikappphi.org

Tuesday, May 10, 2016

Phi Kappa Phi Announces Finalists for Excellence in Innovation Award

The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi today announced the three finalists for its inaugural Excellence in Innovation Award. The $100,000 award, given once per biennium, will recognize an institution for achievement in finding powerful answers to important local, regional, national or global challenges.

The finalists, selected by a jury of emeritus presidents and provosts, were chosen from a pool of six semifinalists representing multifaceted projects at institutions across the nation. Each institution was assessed on the project’s ability to achieve meaningful, measurable outcomes to create systemic large-scale change.

The three institutions chosen as finalists are:
  • Arizona State University
  • California State University, Fullerton
  • Tulane University

“The quality of applications for the inaugural Excellence in Innovation Award presented the jurors a true challenge, each portfolio offering evidence of the creative, sustainable innovations being developed regularly on campuses from coast to coast,” said Society Executive Director Dr. Mary Todd. “Phi Kappa Phi is thrilled to recognize the three finalist institutions for their projects, which, while unique, are also readily adaptable by other institutions.”

The inaugural recipient will be announced Monday, May 16, and will receive $100,000 in tangible recognition of its best practice in response to the changes and challenges facing higher education in the 21st century. The award will be presented at the Society’s biennial convention on July 30 in Atlanta, Ga.

The three semifinalist institutions receiving honorable mention are The Evergreen State College, James Madison University and The New School.

Since 1933, Phi Kappa Phi has awarded fellowships and grants to members and students on its chapter campuses. Currently, more than $500,000 is awarded annually through programs that last year recognized over 270 individuals. The Excellence in Innovation Award is the Society’s only award for institutions.

About Phi Kappa Phi
Phi Kappa Phi annually inducts approximately 30,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni. The Society has chapters at more than 300 select colleges and universities in North America and the Philippines. Membership is by invitation only to the top 10 percent of seniors and graduate students and 7.5 percent of second-term juniors. Faculty, professional staff and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction also qualify. The Society's mission is "To recognize and promote academic excellence in all fields of higher education and to engage the community of scholars in service to others." For more information about Phi Kappa Phi, visit us here.

Monday, May 9, 2016

Member Benefits Highlights – May 2016

Don’t miss out on these exclusive offers including a special shopping event available only to Phi Kappa Phi members throughout May.

Brooks Brothers
Mark your calendars for the Brooks Brothers Summer Shopping Event on Wednesday, May 18! Receive 30% off your regularly-priced purchases during the one-day sale. To receive the discount, you must sign up for a complimentary Brooks Brothers Corporate Membership Card by visiting Membership.BrooksBrothers.com or calling 1.866.515.4747 with organization ID 11755 and pin code 61431.

To receive the discount online, members must create a separate Corporate Member profile, even if you already have an existing Brooks Brothers profile. Please allow 20 minutes after you receive your email confirmation before creating your online Corporate Member profile. Register for your separate Corporate Member profile here.

Budget Truck
Moving soon? Take advantage of the Budget Truck Rental discount and save 15% on rental and mileage. To book your rental, call 1.800.566.8422 and mention Phi Kappa Phi account number 56000134543 or click here to book online. To ensure availability, early reservations are strongly encouraged.

Church Hill Classics
Looking to show off your Phi Kappa Phi pride? Frame your membership certificate with a customizable frame from Church Hill Classics. Choose from a variety of frame moldings, mat colors and materials to create a frame that complements your home or office decor. In addition, you can find a frame to showcase your medallion, stole or Phi Kappa Phi photos! Start designing today!

Dell

Who doesn’t love a free TV? For a limited time, get a free 32” Samsung TV (a $319.99 value) when you buy select PCs of $699.99 or more. Members can also receive 5% back in rewards with Dell Advantage Rewards – plus free second business day shipping. Join for free at checkout. Click here to visit the Phi Kappa Phi - Dell Member Purchase Program and start shopping today!

LifeLock
Summer travel plans? Make sure you are protected from identity fraud with LifeLock’s vacation preparedness quiz. LifeLock, the leader in identity theft protection, makes it easy to stay protected with peace of mind while traveling. As a member, you are eligible to receive a 30-day free trial and 10% discount on membership plans. Click here to enroll. Use promo code HSPKP.

Phi Kappa Phi Visa® Rewards Credit Card
The Phi Kappa Phi Visa® Rewards card is the perfect way for members to show theirPhi Kappa Phi pride everywhere Visa is accepted, support Phi Kappa Phi awards and grants and earn rewards points redeemable for thousands of rewards items. For a limited time, the first 100 approved cardholders to make their first purchase will receive a complimentary Phi Kappa Phi canvas tote bag (pictured) – courtesy of The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi. To qualify for this offer your account must be opened by June 30, 2016. To sign up for the Phi Kappa Phi Visa credit card and take advantage of the great benefits, click here.

Summer Travel Savings
Planning a summer getaway? Make your reservations through our partners and your hotel savings could exceed 50%, while car rental savings may exceed 35%.

Book today with:

Questions about any of the member discounts? Contact Jamie Chapman at jchapman@phikappaphi.org or 800.804.9880, ext. 217.

Thursday, May 5, 2016

Apply to Serve on the Council of Students

The role of Student Vice President is a unique one within the organization of Phi Kappa Phi. Members chosen for this position have the chance to make real connections between the chapter officers on campus and student members. Being selected as a member of the Council of Students offers an opportunity to make these connections on a national level.

If you are interested in serving as a representative for student members at a national level, you are encouraged to apply for the 2016-2018 Council of Students.

The Council of Students, per the Society bylaws, consists of no fewer than five members, representative of the student membership as a whole. These students will gain valuable leadership skills and will communicate regularly with staff at Society headquarters and the two Student Representatives that serve on the Board of Directors.

The Council will meet at the Phi Kappa Phi Convention in Atlanta, Ga., July 27-31, with all expenses covered by Phi Kappa Phi. This opportunity requires a commitment to serve through the 2018 biennium, when the Society selects its next Council of Students.

Interested in applying? Download the Council of Students Application for full eligibility requirements and submission instructions. All applications must be submitted via email to kwhite@phikappaphi.org by May 20, 2016.