Member Mentions – October 2022

The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi's international community is a unique blend of students, academicians, and corporate and civic leaders from all fields of endeavor. Membership in Phi Kappa Phi recognizes and rewards academic success. That recognition doesn’t end after initiation. From their time in school to their professional career, Society members’ hard work continues to pay off and be acknowledged.

Phi Kappa Phi would like to congratulate these members on their recent achievements:

Lesia Crumpton-Young (Tennessee State University) president of Texas Southern University, has been appointed to the United Way of Greater Houston Board of Trustees. Crumpton-Young is one of six new members confirmed to the Board that provides direction to one of the leading charitable organizations in the Houston region.

Jackelyne Hinojosa (California State University, Stanislaus) is among aspiring teachers, artists and other professionals who have been selected as 2022 Mary Stuart Rogers Scholars. The awards, in their 32nd year, honor upper-division students and credential candidates who have overcome challenges to achieve success and demonstrate hope for the future.

Patricia King (University of Nevada, Reno) was recognized at the annual College of Science Distinguished Alumni Reception as a Samuel Abraham Goudsmit Medal Recipient for her contributions and advancement of the mission of the College and the University.

David Prihoda (Emporia State University) was honored to present at Fulbright's 45th Annual Conference in Bethesda, Maryland. His talk at the conference, entitled "The Ubiquity of Malaysian Rain" chronicled his journey from the American Midwest to Asia, during his year in Malaysia as a Fulbright ETA in 2012.

Cheryl Tillotson (University of Nevada, Las Vegas) was honored with the 2022 Patrick T. Smith Achievement in Service Award for her work as an advisor, instructor, mentor, and volunteer.

Widener University recognized students for outstanding work in the university’s 13th-annual Summer Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities Symposium–a program that allows undergraduates to work alongside faculty with hands-on investigations into research and creative projects. They include Society members Zachary Anderson and Zora Deseignora.

Texas A&M University has named the 2022 Gathright/Dean’s Excellence Award Winners–the top first- and second-year students in each of the academic colleges at the school. They include Society members Allison Bendersky, Miles Cook, Kade McAdams and Abhinav Ramesh.

Do you have an accomplishment you’d like to share? Email your member news to news@phikappaphi.org to be considered for inclusion.

Calling All Graduates—Order Your Graduation Regalia

Show your Phi Kappa Phi pride during your upcoming commencement ceremony with Society-branded graduation regalia. Honor stoles, cords, tassels, and the Phi Kappa Phi medallion are available individually, or you can save when you buy all three items in the recognition bundle and receive a free tassel with ΦΚΦ charm!

Click here to shop now and have your 8-digit Phi Kappa Phi member ID available to validate your purchase. Your member ID can be found on your membership card and within your membership account. Members can take advantage of free shipping on orders of $50 or more.

Questions about ordering or shipment time frames? Call Customer Service at 888.502.0635 or email pkpstore@egroupengage.com.

Member Spotlight – Atinuke Adeleke

Born in Nigeria, West Africa, Atinuke Adeleke moved to the United States in 2009. She holds an undergraduate law degree from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, and a master’s degree in law from the University of Buckingham, England. Atinuke is currently pursuing a master’s degree in fine arts at the University of North Texas, where she was initiated into Phi Kappa Phi. She is also an alumnus of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and a member of the Society of North American Goldsmiths (SNAG).

After moving to the U.S., Atinuke could not work due to her visa status, so she stumbled upon jewelry making to supplement her family’s income. She founded the accessory brand Zuri Perle, and her pieces have graced runways at New York Fashion Week and Kansas City Fashion Week. Her creations have also been featured in Italiano L'Orafo, Weekly Style Magazine, Fox 4KC, Say Yes to the Dress and CNN Africa.

In 2020, Atinuke was one of fifty artists selected by New York City Jewelry Week for the “Here We Are” initiative that focuses on BIPOC jewelry artists. Her current body of work includes sculpture and fiber pieces that incorporate her birthplace's traditional culture and practices, western traditional woodworking techniques, and modern processes such as CAD, 3D printing and CNC routing.

Let’s get to know Atinuke!

Why did you accept the invitation to join Phi Kappa Phi?
In building a business from the ground up, I have learned to wear different hats: artist, designer, marketer, social media influencer and so much more. However, not having the traditional networking circles of school, family, etc., to rely on has given me a greater appreciation of how valuable these resources are and can be. I believe that accepting the invitation to join Phi Kappa Phi is a step in the right direction toward building and sustaining a network that will help me grow and flourish personally and in my artistic practice.

What is the biggest lesson you have learned through running your own business?
Resilience and patience. It takes a lot to pursue, build and sustain your passion from the ground up,

What do you plan to do after graduation?
I plan to continue growing my business and artistic practice. I would also like to serve as a facilitator and guide to those coming behind me through teaching and mentorship opportunities.

Who inspires you?
Different people inspire various aspects of my life. As an artist, I am inspired by artists such as Peju Alatise, Simon Leigh and Anselm Keiffer.

What was the best vacation you’ve been on?
Egypt, I got to see and stand on the stones of the Pyramids. They truly are magnificent.

What was the first concert you attended?
The first concert I can recall attending would be a concert held by the Choir of the Chapel of Resurrection back in Nigeria. My grandmother was an active member of that choir for over 50 years. We always went to see her sing, and her solos were simply amazing. She passed away this year.

What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
It’s never too late to go after what you want.

What was the greatest challenge in your collegiate studies?
Venturing into the arts from a legal and business background can seem like you were plucked from the earth and dropped off on Mars. Playing catch up and learning the lingo and terminology while staying true to myself and my vision was a challenge.

What is your favorite restaurant?
My current favorite food place is Gidi Bar and Grill. Their menu includes Nigerian dishes, and I like to order Ofada Sauce and Rice, a spicy sauce with assorted meats and rice.

If you could meet one person from history, who would it be?
It would have to be an artisan from the Yoruba tribe prior to the onset of colonization and western influence. I have so many questions about the artistic practice and influences of that era and would love the chance to have some of my questions answered.

To learn more about Atinuke and connect, visit her profile within our online member community here.

Is there someone you would like to see in the spotlight? Send your nomination to engagement@phikappaphi.org, and include background information for the nomination.





Career Rescue: It is never too late in your career to start networking

Q: I have always struggled with networking, not because I avoid people, but when at work, I focus on getting my job done. I should know how to reach out, but it feels phony. I now have more time to reach out, but I am unsure what to say. How do you start networking when you are out of shape?

A: Most know that connecting with others plays an important role in their career growth, albeit to some it’s the least favorite activity. One of the best things about networking is that you can start any time.

Having regrets over not reaching out to people earlier does not help with momentum in your search. Thinking about what you should have done only leads to self-doubt, strengthening your awkwardness in connecting with others. The truth is that every person in the workforce needs one another. No one lives on a career island where self-sufficiency is enough. The key to networking is understanding it and how to be yourself.

Out of all the job search skills you need throughout your career, learning how to connect with people will be the one that gets you through the ups and downs of the marketplace.

If you lean toward being introverted, networking can feel overwhelming. Even if you enjoy meeting people and exchanging information, there appears to be an element of “being phony” when you focus on your needs rather than learning about others.

Think about how often you network throughout your day while taking care of business. Whether it is running errands or attending a baseball game, more than likely, you are among people who share a common interest. The difference between meeting people at a game and gathering for a professional association is your attitude toward it.

Here are some ways to change your mindset toward networking and to feel genuine:

• Focus on learning rather than seeing networking as a “need to” activity. See it as a “want to” activity. When you focus on wanting to talk with people for the sake of curiosity, you are more open to discovering information. If you look at networking as a “need to,” it feels phonier.
• Look for common interests to make networking more pleasant. When shared interests form your networking, it feels more genuine and meaningful.

Think in terms of what you can give. When you network with an attitude of giving, it seems less self-promotional and makes it more of a shared conversation.

Reach out to people with an attitude of expanding your knowledge of industries, employers, and trends in your career field. Talking with people empowers you and takes the focus off your needs. Learning more about others and exchanging information is the core of networking.

Start expanding your network today by connecting with other Phi Kappa Phi members in Link, the Society’s exclusive online community. Visit Link.PhiKappaPhi.org/Profile to update your profile, and click here to start browsing today! To learn more about Link, visit www.PhiKappaPhi.org/Link.


Do you have questions about networking? If so, send them to engagement@phikappaphi.org, and we’ll follow up.

From the Executive Director: Phi Kappa Phi’s Landmark Birthday

As this autumn issue of Forum reaches our members, the fall semester is well underway in campuses across our Phi Kappa Phi community. After navigating the lockdowns required by the pandemic, we’re heartened to see students and faculty once again able to physically gather on campus. It’s a piece of news well worth celebrating at a time when so many headlines underscore the world’s challenges.

In our summer issue of Forum, I mentioned the pond cypress our staff and board leaders planted last spring at our national office to honor those lost to COVID-19. That little tree was bare when we gathered to place it in the ground back in March, but I’m happy to report that our memorial tree is fully green now and thriving. Seeing it just beyond my window at the national office is a reminder that resilience comes in many sizes – and that it rests in each of us.

That affirming reality has been brought home to me in a special way since joining Phi Kappa Phi’s national office as your executive director and CEO in January. I’ve been deeply impressed by the resourcefulness and tenacity of our members in answering the challenges of the past three years. I’m privileged to witness that can-do spirit up close when I visit chapters in many places.

One of my recent trips included a stop at the University of Maine, where Phi Kappa Phi was founded in 1897. I was humbled during my visit when I was able to see some of the Society’s founding documents in the campus archives.

That visit also highlighted a landmark birthday for Phi Kappa Phi, which this year is marking the 125th anniversary of its founding. The Society’s birthday was a centerpiece of our biennial convention in Orlando this summer, which was a huge success. Even if you weren’t able to attend the convention, you can still connect with the rich legacy of Phi Kappa Phi by checking out our new video history of the Society.

Watching this splendid story of Phi Kappa Phi’s evolution, I was reminded that the strength of our Society has always rested in its members – and in the willingness of special people who agree to share their talents and wisdom in leading our organization.

That proud tradition is evident in the contributions of our past president, Missy Hopper, who left our National Board of Directors this year after years of distinguished service. As Past President Dan Sandweiss passed the gavel to our new president, Lora Becker, at this year’s convention, I couldn’t help but think how fortunate we are to have both Dan and Lora on board to help guide Phi Kappa Phi.

The theme of this Forum issue is conversation, which is fitting since our Society has always been grounded in the lively exchange of ideas. I always welcome your ideas and suggestions about how our national office can serve our members. Please don’t hesitate to reach me at bnewcomer@phikappaphi.org.

I can’t help but wonder what the next 125 years will bring for Phi Kappa Phi. I feel extraordinarily lucky to be partnering with you in helping to shape that future.

Members Save on Learning & Development Resources

Keep your brain in tip-top shape and never stop learning with exclusive discounts and resources from Society partners.

Brain Training
At Lumos Labs, they believe in helping people keep their brains challenged. That's why they created a simple online tool to allow anyone to exercise core cognitive abilities. Lumosity's groundbreaking program is based on extensive research in the field of neuroplasticity. Over 90 million people already use Lumosity, and they're adding more each month.

The Society is partnered with Lumosity to offer members a 35% discount off their scientifically designed training for the web, iOS, and Android. Visit www.PhiKappaPhi.org/Lumosity to learn more (your member login will be required).

Resume Writing Services
Partnered with Phi Kappa Phi since 2015, Seeking Success can help you rise above the competition with a resume focused on your target, complies with modern screening apps, and promotes your value through accomplishments. They will ask you the right questions to develop a complete set of career-related documents, including a resume, cover letter, and new language for your LinkedIn profile.

To learn more about the services offered, visit www.SeekingSuccess.com/PKP. Use code PKP2015 to access the Phi Kappa Phi member page. You will also need to use this code to apply the $100 discount to your order.

Language Learning
If you are thinking about learning a new language, Fluenz is here to help! They offer interactive language learning software for Spanish, French, Italian, German, Portuguese, and Mandarin. Products are available on CD, as a download, and via mobile apps. Fluenz can also be streamed online with supplemental audio MP3s and flashcards.

Phi Kappa Phi members can save 20% on any Fluenz purchase. Visit www.PhiKappaPhi.org/Fluenz to access the exclusive promotional code and start learning today!

Academic Journals
Subscribe to JPASS by JSTOR and gain access to expertise from more than 2,000 of the world's leading academic journals to ensure the accuracy and quality of your work. Browse subscription plans and save 25% when you purchase an annual subscription. Click here to get started!

Test Prep
The Princeton Review can help you achieve your dreams with personalized and innovative ways to prepare for the big test. Visit www.PhiKappaPhi.org/Princeton-Review to learn how you and your family can save up to 15% on tutoring and prep courses for the MCAT, GMAT, GRE, and more.

If you're preparing for the CPA Exam, Becker Professional Education offers a variety of study formats to suit each person best. Save $300 when simultaneously registering for all four parts of the Becker CPA Review course. Click here to create an account and select The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi in the society drop-down menu on the Affiliations tab. The discount will be automatically applied to your purchase.

Find the Right Program
Are you researching graduate schools? Grad Compass by U.S. News helps students find the right graduate school and connect their education to their dream career by offering complete rankings and expanded profiles of business, education, engineering, law, medicine, and nursing programs. The Society is partnered with U.S. News to provide members with a 20% discount on unlimited Grad Compass access for one full year. Click here to learn more and use promo code PKPSAVE to apply the 20% discount to your subscription.

To learn more about all the benefits available to active Phi Kappa Phi members, visit www.PhiKappaPhi.org/Benefits.

Enter Our Costume Contest for a Chance to Win!

Fly, Slither or Crawl. Submit your photos to our Halloween Costume Contest and you could win it all! We know our members have brilliant ideas for Halloween costumes, and we want to see them. Show us your most creative ideas, and you could win a goodie bag of Phi Kappa Phi branded merchandise.

Visit our member-exclusive Link community and post your photos in this conversation to enter. The deadline to submit photos of your spooktacular costumes is Nov. 2. The winning entry will receive a goodie bag of Phi Kappa Phi gear valued at $100.

While you're there, check out all of the community conversations you may have been missing. From tech discussions in the STEM Lab to publishing world chats in the Writer's Block to successful job search tips in the Career Corner, there's a topic of interest for everyone.

The community is available to active members only, and you will be required to log in with your Phi Kappa Phi credentials. For login assistance, email webmaster@phikappaphi.org.

Not active? Click here to renew your membership and gain access to this exclusive benefit.



The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi Announces Love of Learning Award Recipients

The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi—the nation’s oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines—today announced the recipients of a 2022 Love of Learning Award. The $500 awards were given to 200 Phi Kappa Phi members.

Love of Learning Awards are designed to help fund post-baccalaureate professional development for active Phi Kappa Phi members including graduate or professional studies, doctoral dissertations, continuing education, travel related to teaching and research, career development and more.

“For 125 years our motto, let the love of learning rule humanity, has guided Phi Kappa Phi. We are pleased to support our members through the Love of Learning Awards. These members embody Phi Kappa Phi’s motto, and we celebrate their lifelong learning through these awards,” said the Society Executive Director and CEO, Dr. Bradley R. Newcomer.

Established in 2007, the Love of Learning Program gives 200 awards annually in support of post-baccalaureate professional development. The selection process for a Love of Learning Award is based on the applicant’s academic achievement, campus and community service, intended use of award funds as it relates to academic and career goals, and a personal statement.

Since 1932, Phi Kappa Phi’s award programs have recognized members and students on its chapter campuses for outstanding academic achievement. In addition to the Love of Learning Program, Phi Kappa Phi awards graduate and dissertation fellowships, study abroad grants, and grants for local, national and international literacy initiatives. Each year $1.3 million is awarded through programs that recognize nearly 500 individuals annually.

For the complete list of recipients, visit www.PhiKappaPhi.org/LoL2022recipients. The application process for the 2023 Love of Learning Awards will open on Dec. 15, 2022.

Save the Date for Giving Tuesday

On Nov. 29, Phi Kappa Phi will celebrate Giving Tuesday – a day of philanthropy dedicated to giving back through the support of nonprofit organizations.

This year, we ask that you consider making a gift to Phi Kappa Phi to support deserving students and help members realize their educational and career goals. All gifts, no matter the size, will open doors of opportunity to members both near and far.

With the recent addition of the Pioneer and Mary Todd Sabbatical Awards and increased funding for Graduate Research Grants and Love of Learning Awards, the Society now proudly distributes $1.3 million each year to students, members, chapters and institutions to support their quest for lifelong learning.

Want to see exactly how your contributions can make an impact? Check out these testimonials from Phi Kappa Phi members across the country.

Ready to join the Giving Tuesday movement? Here are some ways to get involved:
1. Make sure you save the date on your calendar.
2. Follow us on social media for updates leading up to the big day.
3. Spread the word by joining and sharing our Facebook event with friends and family.

Now Accepting Applications for Graduate Research Grants and Dissertation Fellowships

The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi – the nation's oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society – is currently accepting applications for its Graduate Research Grant and Dissertation Fellowship Award.

Introduced in 2018 as a pilot program, the Graduate Research Grant will provide up to $1,500 to 20 eligible members who are enrolled in a graduate program. These grants provide funding for research in support of career development opportunities. For full eligibility requirements, visit www.phikappaphi.org/graduateresearch.

Fifteen Dissertation Fellowships of $10,000 each will be awarded to eligible members in the dissertation writing stage of their doctoral study. For full eligibility requirements, visit www.phikappaphi.org/dissertation.

Since 1932, Phi Kappa Phi's awards program has recognized members and students on its chapter campuses for outstanding academic achievement. Each year $1.3 million is awarded through award programs that recognize nearly 500 individuals annually.

Questions? Contact Kelli Partin, director of awards.