Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College inducts new members into Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society

Published on Apr 30, 2026

Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College recently welcomed a new class of high-achieving students into the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society during an induction ceremony held April 23 at the Nicey and Alice Hazen Theater on the Cumberland Campus.

The ceremony recognized students for their academic excellence, leadership and commitment to service, hallmarks of Phi Theta Kappa membership. To be eligible for membership, students must complete at least 12 college credit hours and maintain a minimum 3.5 grade point average, demonstrating sustained academic achievement. Family members, faculty, staff and community leaders gathered to celebrate the accomplishments of the inductees and their dedication to continued success.

SKCTC President Emeritus Bruce Ayers delivered remarks during the ceremony, reflecting on his own connection to the organization. Ayers was among the first group of students inducted into Phi Theta Kappa at Southeast following the establishment of the Xi Sigma Chapter in 1966, while his wife, Barbara, was part of the second class.

“Being inducted into Phi Theta Kappa is an honor you earn, and one that, like your education, can never be taken away,” said Ayers. “I never imagined as a student that I would one day serve as president of this college, and I hope you recognize that your path can take you further than you ever expected.”

Paul Pratt, former vice president of community and business development at SKCTC, also addressed the group. A Southeast graduate, Pratt went on to earn a degree in mining engineering from the University of Kentucky and later served as president and superintendent of two large mining operations. He encouraged students to remain grounded in their values while pursuing their goals and reminded them that their potential is limitless.

Phi Theta Kappa Advisor Jacob Craiger emphasized the significance of the honor and the opportunities it provides students.

“Phi Theta Kappa is more than an academic honor. It reflects a commitment to leadership, scholarship and service,” said Craiger. “What you do now matters, whether you are entering the workforce or transferring to a university. There is no elevator to success. You take it one step at a time, and we are here to support you along the way.”

Student leaders for the organization include Alexis Freeman, president; Olivia Freeman, vice president; Katelyn Jones, secretary; Shayla Whitaker, treasurer; and Carlye Dixon, public relations officer.

Freeman said the organization provides students with opportunities to grow as leaders while building meaningful connections.

“Being part of Phi Theta Kappa has given me the chance to connect with other students who are just as driven and focused on their goals,” said Freeman. “It is an honor to be part of a group that pushes each other to keep going and do more.”

Students inducted into Phi Theta Kappa at SKCTC include:

Harrison Addington, Nicole Anderson, Rachel Ball-Maiden, Holly Bargo, Madison Blair, Jacob Brock, Holly Brock, Cassidy Burnette, Alexis Caldwell, Callie Chappell, Kylee Cochran, Maleah Cole, Jordan Collins, Dylan Cox, Payton Eldridge, Drew Freeman, Grayson Grills, Jeremy Holden, Sunshine Hoskins, Jacob Howard, Kristin Hunley Gibson, John Hurley, Brett Johnson II, Katelyn Jones, Macy Jones, Sarah Lambdin, Nina Lay, Kaydee Lewis, Landon Marsee, Tucker Mills, Carolyn Minton, Serena Moore, Brody Napier, Addison Nelson, Alycia Rhymer, Dalton Sexton, Sarah Shepherd, Karli Shoupe, Sean Stewart, Haley Tigue, Alyssa Tippett, Arizona Ward, Leslie Warren, Grace White, Madison Whitehead and Abagail Willis.