Phi Theta Kappa Featured Students
Each month, a different member of Phi Theta Kappa will be featured here and on our to highlight your accomplishments!
Want to be an Upsilon Chi Featured Member? Submit the form in the link below!
February 2026 Featured Student

Annaelle Lacossade
Originally from Port-au-Prince, Annaelle now calls Goldsboro home. She chose to attend 黑料正能量 because of the welcoming and supportive environment; a place where she has been able to grow academically and personally.
Annaelle accepted her invitation to join Phi Theta Kappa simply because she loves it and we love her enthusiasm! Her involvement on campus and in the community reflects her commitment to excellence and service. She is a proud participant of the Global Scholar Distinction program, participates in the Multicultural Club, and volunteers with the local Health Department. Her dedication to both scholarship and service truly embodies the spirit of PTK.
Here are a few fun facts that make Annaelle uniquely Annaelle:
-She loves sleeping (who can blame her?)
– She enjoys watching Christmas movies
– She loves attending church
– She appreciates positive, peaceful environments
– She values community and connection
After graduating from 黑料正能量, Annaelle plans to transfer to a four-year college to pursue her bachelor鈥檚 degree. We are confident that wherever her journey leads, she will continue to shine brightly.
February 2026 Featured Student

Mariah Raynor
Mariah, a native of Pikeville, NC, accepted the invitation to join the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa because 鈥渋t is a great opportunity to grow in academic strength and leadership. Receiving the invitation was an exceptional encouragement as well. In accepting the invitation, I felt a sense of accomplishment. I knew that I was obtaining a significant honor and opportunity to discover new potential for myself and cultivate my existing strengths.鈥
When asked why she chose 黑料正能量, Mariah stated 鈥渋t is very close to home. I love the diversity, and I am thankful for the friendships and opportunities I have found here so far. I cannot wait to further them!鈥
Mariah also shared that after she graduates, she plans to 鈥渢ransfer to East Carolina University and study for a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice.鈥
Along with being an Upsilon Chi Member, Mariah is currently the vice president of the WCC Criminal Justice & Forensics Club. She also serves in volunteering and ministry outreach within her church and other organizations.
Outside of academics, Mariah has 鈥渁n eager desire for all things music! Whether it is music theory, making music, or simply listening, there is rarely a moment in which I am not doing something music related. I sing and play various instruments; guitar and mandolin being my favorites. I am also an avid collector of vintage items, especially records and books. Aside from music, I also enjoy watching sports including baseball (go Braves!) and hockey (go Canes!). I am also a (self-proclaimed) coffee connoisseur. I spend a lot of free time at the coffee shop writing, drawing, or just observing the world around me.鈥
January 2026 Featured Student

Kelly Nachbaur
Kelly, a native of Eustis, Florida, accepted the invitation to join the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa because 鈥渋t was the first time I was ever invited to join any kind of national honor society organization.鈥
When asked why she chose 黑料正能量, Kelly stated 鈥渋t鈥檚 close to where I currently live and they have the program I was interested in.鈥
Kelly also shared that after she graduates, she plans to 鈥済o for my bachelor鈥檚 degree just not sure which university yet.鈥
Along with being our Upsilon Chi Student Government Association Representative, Kelly is a WCC Student Ambassador, a member of the Honors Program, the Global Scholars Secretary, and a Peer Tutor in the Academic Skills Center.
Outside of academics, Kelly enjoys reading, writing, and playing Pok茅mon Go. She is also a fan of screen entertainment including Star Wars, Harry Potter, and Predator/Xenomorph.
January 2026 Featured Student

Kinda Gregory
Kinda, a native of Goldsboro, accepted the invitation to join the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa because 鈥渋t is an amazing opportunity to connect with other colleges and a nice introduction to college for me.鈥
When asked why she chose 黑料正能量, Nicole stated that 鈥淢y mom attended and graduated from WCC. They also have everything I鈥檓 looking for in a college.鈥
As a dual enrolled student, Kinda shared with us that she enjoys being a member of her high school softball team, as well as participating in volunteer activities the school offers. She also sings in their choir and acts in their drama courses.
Along with her high school participation, Kinda shared that she enjoys creating art and music and is learning to play the guitar. Some of her favorite past times are attending drag races and playing with her two yorkies, Bentley and Lyla. Kinda also is an avid reader and historian.
After graduating from WCC, Kinda plans to work on cars in a dealership or mechanic shop and dreams of one day opening her own place.
December 2025 Featured Student

Michael Bloom
Michael Bloom is from a small town in New York State, but migrated to the south at a very young age and calles the south his home. He accepted the invitation to join the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa because “the chapter offers great opportunities to help the community we live in and affords scholarship opportunities, so it’s a win-win.”
Michael told us that he chose 黑料正能量 because “I wanted a college where I was not just a number.” At 黑料正能量, the small classes facilitate instructor engagement with a hometown feel.
This past May, MIchael graduated with an Associate Degree in Cybersecurity. He tols us, “I am looking to possibly change careers in the future and WAyne offered a degree that will improve my earning potential. WIth rising prices and a kid to get through college, I needed a way to increase my opportunities and Wayne was the obvious choice.”
Michael has many hobbies including gardening, making jellies and jams to give to friends and family, working on cars, construction, and gaming. He is currently building his own arcade cabinet to be used as an arcade machine and as a server rack at home.
November 2025 Featured Student

Nicole Bryant-Alvarado
Nicole, a native of New Rochelle, New York, accepted the invitation to join the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa because 鈥渋t was a huge thing for me to be invited. I felt as if I had done well in school. I never imagined I would even get an invitation. I thought at first the email was fake but then I realized, no this is real, and the hard work I was putting in was being rewarded. ”
When asked why she chose 黑料正能量, Nicole stated that 鈥淚 graduated from the GED program here and felt it would only make sense to also go to school here. There are so many resources that the school offers.鈥
Nicole shared with us that she is, 鈥渃urrently enrolled in WCC for an Associate in Science. I plan on transferring into the forensics program at Fayetteville State University after graduation. I want to be forensic scientist because I feel it鈥檚 a way I can help someone鈥檚 loved one get justice. I鈥檓 someone who loves helping others and so I feel this is my calling and has been since I was young.鈥
Nicole also 鈥減lans to run up the ladder in the field and become a forensic profiler in the future. If I can say anything about myself, is I never give up! I can fall so many times, but I will always pick myself back up and continue running towards my goals. Being in PTK showed me that I can do anything as long as I continue to put my mind to it. Coming from earning my GED last fall to now being in PTK has been a huge honor and has made me want to continue to work even harder!鈥
Along with the Upsilon Chi Chapter of PTK, Nicole is a member of Global Scholars, the Criminal Justice/Forensics Club, and the Honors Program. Being the 7th out of 10 children, she developed a love for making beaded bracelets, watching Twilight Eclipse, and KPop.
October 2025 Featured Student

Isaiah Williams
Isaiah, a native of Dudley, NC, accepted the invitation to join the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa because 鈥渂eing invited to join an organization due to my academic achievements feels like something to be proud of, and the fact that this organization provides multiple scholarship opportunities seems like a good reason to join.鈥
When asked why he chose 黑料正能量, Isaiah stated that 鈥淚t provides many trade degrees, it’s close to home, and cost efficient.鈥
Isaiah also shared that after he graduates, he 鈥減lans to go work at a company that I’ll be a part of during my apprenticeship鈥 at 黑料正能量.
When he is not focused on his studies, Isaiah enjoys 鈥渞eading light novels, reading comic books, swimming, spending time with my dogs, and playing video games.鈥 He is currently an Eagle Sount and a volunteer for the local Community Soup Kitchen.
August 2025 Featured Student

Amanda Johnson
Amanda, a native of Athens, Maine, who resides in Seven Springs, NC, accepted the invitation to join the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa 鈥渢o help me further my career and help me expand my horizons.鈥
As the owner/operator of Dogwood Billing Solutions, LLC, Amanda share that why she chose 黑料正能量, Amanda stated that she 鈥渃hose WCC because it is close to home and had exactly what I was looking for.鈥
manda also told us that 鈥淎fter I graduate, I am going to be working with my company and looking to get more providers to sign on for my billing service. I am also going to be going to get my national certification for Coding/ Billing and credentialing.鈥
She enjoys 鈥渉elping with the Children’s Miracle Network and Cure for the Colors.鈥 Amanda also enjoys working with her 4 horses, playing with her 2 dogs and a cat, listening to music, and spending quality time with family. Amanda also has over 30 years of piano/keyboard experience, stating that she began playing when she was just able to sit on the bench and reach the keys.
Amanda finished by sharing that 鈥淚 was raised by my mom and struggled to get what we needed. I was raised in the Baptist church in Athens. Graduated from Heartland Christian School with my high school diploma and proceeded to go to Beal College. I graduated in 2004 with my Associated Degree in Law Enforcement. I am currently raising 2 young boys, 5 and 4. While going to school and raising my family I am also planning a wedding for December 2025.鈥
July 2025 Featured Student

Olivia Adams
Olivia, a native of Duplin County, who resides in Pikeville, NC, accepted the invitation to join the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa 鈥渂ecause I aspire to be outstanding in my career and education. I love to learn and excel in my classes with the support from my peers.鈥
When asked why she chose 黑料正能量, Olivia stated that 鈥渋t is a flexible program that I can work with while still in high school. It also carries a variety of programs that allows a horizon of career choices.鈥
Olivia also told us that 鈥淎fter I graduate from 黑料正能量, I plan to go NC State. I want to be a veterinarian for exotic animals! I want to eventually own my own clinic to help animals in need.鈥
She enjoys 鈥渧olunteering for my local veterinary hospital, and the library of my little brother鈥檚 elementary school. In my high school, I participate in the drama club, and the trailblazers club.鈥
Olivia is a dual enrolled (high school and college) student who has embraced the hectic, yet rewarding, life pace. Along with her three brothers, she has five dogs, two guinea pigs, and a cat to add to her bustling life. In her free time, Olivia enjoys relaxing to music (pop is her favorite genre) and reading everything she can.
Olivia finished by stating 鈥淚 love my family and my education. I have amazing people who have supported me the whole way!鈥
February 2025 Featured Student

Sabrina Moore
Sabrina, a native of Jackson, Mississippi, who resides in Goldsboro, NC, accepted the invitation to join the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa 鈥渢o actively engage in both school and community activities. It presents a wonderful opportunity to contribute positively, connect with others, and make a meaningful impact. By participating, I aim to broaden my horizons and truly make a difference in the lives of those around me.鈥
When asked why she chose 黑料正能量, Sabrina stated that 鈥淕oing to college has always been a goal of mine. I had previously attended a community college but eventually dropped out, feeling discouraged. However, my perspective changed when I spoke with some advisors at 黑料正能量. They were incredibly helpful and understanding, which reignited my passion for education. Since then, I’ve completed two semesters and feel like there’s no limit to what I can achieve. With the support and encouragement from WCC, I have the confidence and resources to go further than I ever anticipated.鈥
Sabrina went on to state that her 鈥減ost-graduation plans are still evolving, but as of now, I aim to obtain another degree from 黑料正能量. And remain advancing my career in the insurance industry.鈥
Sabrina is 鈥渁n active聽member聽of the Faith and Fellowship Club through my workplace, as my faith is an important aspect of my life. I spend time with others who share similar beliefs and participate in various volunteer projects as they arise. Additionally, my full-time career in the insurance industry has provided me with valuable experiences and skills that I bring to both my professional and community engagements.鈥
She also has 鈥渁n unwavering passion for Marvel, immersing myself in its universe through comic books and blockbuster movies. Exploring new places and experiencing different cultures brings me immense joy, and I find peace in nature, whether it’s hiking, relaxing by a lake, or enjoying scenic views. Connecting with others and creating moments of joy and laughter is incredibly important to me. And fun fact: I don’t like bananas!鈥
In the words of Sabrina鈥檚 grandfather, 鈥淓ducation is your golden ticket. Learn all you can learn. It will open many doors for you.鈥
December 2024 Featured Student

Gaby Rivera
Gaby, a native of Humacao, Puerto Rico who resides in Princeton, NC, accepted the invitation to join the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa because she knew the organization 鈥渨ould help me in different ways even after leaving 黑料正能量. I also knew I鈥檇 meet new amazing people that are on a similar path as I am.鈥
When asked why she chose 黑料正能量, Gaby stated that 鈥淚 had heard great things about WCC, and I wanted to be in a place that still felt like home but also gave me a smooth transition into college.鈥 She expressed her sincere love for WCC during our Fall 2024 Graduation Ceremony as the Guest Speaker and graduate. ()
After completing her degree this December, Gaby plans to 鈥渁ttend East Carolina University for the upcoming Spring 2025 semester and major in Speech and Hearing Sciences with a minor in Psychology.鈥
As well as being an active Upsilon Chi Member, Gaby has also been extremely involved in the WCC Multicultural Club, Global Scholars, and WCC Honors Program. Throughout her time at WCC, Gaby has presented at the 2024 North Carolina Honors Association Conference about her 鈥淧assion 4 Paws鈥 service project, as well as created her own website for the completion of the Global Distinction Program ().
In addition to her studies at WCC, Gaby enjoys baking for her family and friends, creating social media content, painting, trying new foods, and spending time with her best K9 friend, Luna. She also has an enormous love for Snoopy (we hope you didn鈥檛 miss her in our Upsilon Chi 2024 WCC Trunk or Treat display ).
October 2024 Featured Student

Jessica Byrd
Jessica, originally from Stokes, NC, accepted the invitation to join the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa because 鈥済rowing up struggling in K-12 school with a learning disability, and having an IEP鈥 she knew 鈥渋t was a huge honor to be given an invitation to join Phi Theta Kappa.鈥
When asked why she chose 黑料正能量, Jessica stated that 鈥渓iving in Greene County, I was near many schools to get a two-year degree. I found when I looked into 黑料正能量 that everyone was super helpful. My Criminal Justice advisor was able to understand my struggles with school and helped me build a schedule around what was best for me. WCC has some of the best professors and instructors. I have spent a lot of time in their offices, phones, and emails making sure I was clear (on what was expected). Not once did I ever feel like I was bothering them. I felt like I was talking to a friend that genuinely wanted to help me. For that reason, I stayed with WCC. I couldn鈥檛 imagine a better staff to support someone getting their two-year degree.鈥
After completing her degree in May 2025, Jessica is 鈥渃onsidering attending a 4-year college. It鈥檚 another big step for me. My goal is to work with the DA鈥檚 office as their lead investigator. I will probably stay on as a GAL (Guardian ad Litem) but will cut back my case load some.鈥
Jessica has 鈥渂een a GAL for almost 7 years now. I am a child鈥檚 voice (advocate) for children that have been abused or neglected by their parent or guardian and it has gone to court.鈥 She currently 鈥渢he JROTC booster club president at he youngest daughter鈥檚 high school, as well as a volunteer for numerous projects that pop up that need additional support.鈥
Jessica is first and foremost 鈥渁 wife and mother of two beautiful girls. One is 20 years old and, in the US Army. My youngest is in the 11th grade and hoping to be a medic in the Air Force.鈥 Jessica 鈥渓oves horses, as I grew up with my uncle as a horse trade and rode more horses than people have ever seen.鈥 She also enjoys visiting the mountains, listening to the quiet sounds of nature, investigations, and putting the pieces together to see the bigger picture.
Jessica 鈥渨ant(s) to show my children the importance of going to college and just because it鈥檚 hard for you doesn鈥檛 mean you should not try. You might even shock yourself at what you can accomplish. I know I was!鈥
September 2024 Featured Student

Philip Rhodes
Philip, a Goldsboro native, accepted the invitation to join the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa because he 鈥渇elt the organization was a great tool to highlight students with a passion for learning. It helps build a sense of pride in honoring the student’s achievement while bettering themselves for the future.
Philip told us that he chose 黑料正能量 because 鈥淚 live in Goldsboro, it was an obvious choice for me based on my specific need in learning through the Engineering department. WCC gave me that option.鈥
This past May, Philip graduated with an Associate鈥檚 Degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology. 鈥淚 am currently enrolled in the Associate in Science degree program and plan to transfer to either ECU or NC State to get my Bachelor鈥檚 Degree in Mechanical Engineering. I feel this enhances my experience and makes me more value for my company. It also creates a sense of personal achievement for myself at my age.鈥 The company Philip works for 鈥渉as been in business for over 135 years where I have been a tooling designer of 28 years.鈥
Philip has been married to his high school sweetheart for 32 years. He shared with us, 鈥淚 am 52 years old; I have 5 beautiful children who are all grown, and most are married. They have blessed me with 5 beautiful grandchildren.鈥
Philip also 鈥渆njoys playing music (drums), funk and jazz are my favorite genres of music. I help direct, plan, manage, create, and play in a band (NorthBound Worship). We serve at a recovery center (Hope Extended) where we provide music for special events there.鈥
August 2024 Featured Student
Kris Gauthier
Kris, a native of Ewa Beach, Hawaii, accepted the invitation to join the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa for the program鈥檚 prestigious reputation, scholarships, and transfer opportunities.
As a Combat Medic Army Veteran, Kris chose 黑料正能量 to pursue an Associate in Science (AS) degree, valuing the convenient campus commute. During his transition from Active Duty to civilian life, Kris plans to complete his AS degree and then transfer to East Carolina University, where he aims to earn a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science.
In addition to being a full-time student, Kris is a dedicated husband and father of three wonderful children. He balances his studies with helping his kids with their schoolwork and honing their soccer and baseball skills.
In his spare time, Kris enjoys fishing, working on automobiles, refining his combat skills, and engaging in hands-on creative projects.
May 2024 Featured Student

Mya Artis
Mya, a Dudley, NC native, chose to accept the invitation to join the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa because 鈥渋t would be a great once in a lifetime opportunity鈥.
As Mya is pursuing an Associate in Arts degree at 黑料正能量, she is also working full time at Pizza Hunt, with a second job helping make children鈥檚 birthday parties memorable by dressing as their favorite characters for their special day. When asked why she chose WCC, Mya said 鈥淚t was closest to my job, and it was really affordable鈥.
Upon completion of her degree, Mya is planning to move to Florida, attend Full Sail University, and major in creative writing. When discussing her plans, Mya stated, 鈥淚 want to become a journalist and change the world with my words in a positive way.鈥
Although she is extremely busy with classes and work, Mya makes time for her two favorite hobbies, drawing and writing. She also loves the suspense found in reading murder mystery books and horror movies. When she is not reading, writing, or drawing, you can find Mya with her 5 dogs, which are pit bull mixes, or playing video games with her friends and family.
Mya also shared that 鈥淚 am a new member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society at the college, and I plan to keep my grades up so I can graduate with honors. Everything I do is to make my parents proud.鈥
March 2024 Featured Student
Heather Drake
Heather, a Pikeville, NC native, chose to accept the invitation to join the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa because 鈥渕y mother is a member of Phi Theta Kappa.鈥 Along with joining ranks with her mother in our International Organization, Heather stated that she was proud of herself for excelling in her program, as this was a new experience for her.
While pursuing a degree in Emergency Management at 黑料正能量, Heather is also a full-time paramedic with Wayne County EMS, a mother of two teenagers, as well as extremely involved with Girl Scouts of America. She chose to WCC because 鈥渋t is close to home and I like to be able to come to the campus when I need something.鈥 After graduation, Heather is planning to continue growing her EMS career.
Heather and her 13-year-old child are in constant competition for the highest overall Grade Point Average. This, along with her love for the outdoors and helping others, keeps Heather motivated to succeed. Having her children watch her succeed is a way of keeping them motivated and instilling the constant love for family in her home. She knows that 鈥渘o obstacle is too big when I have my mind set on a goal鈥 and proud of have her children witness this truth in her life.
When Heather is not investing her time in puzzles and diamond art, she is 鈥渁lways looking for a new adventure for my family and I to go on.鈥 She also enjoys 鈥渕aking people laugh because life is too short to be sad!鈥
February 2024 Featured Student

Kaylee Martin
Kaylee, a Goldsboro, NC native, chose to accept the invitation to join the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa to 鈥渇ind friends and better myself through relationships with others鈥.
She chose to pursue her Associate degree at 黑料正能量 鈥渂ecause it allowed me to study while also remaining close to family.鈥 Upon completion of her degree, Kaylee is planning to attend 鈥渢he University of North Carolina at Wilmington to get a Bachelors in Marine Biology with a minor in Environmental Science.鈥
Along with accepting the role as the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa President, Kaylee is also an Ambassador for 黑料正能量, and volunteers with the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. She also works at Wayne Christian Daycare, enjoys reading all types of novels, and learning everything she can about her favorite animals 鈥 sharks!
When asked for a few extra thoughts, Kaylee stated, 鈥淚 am grateful for my time at 黑料正能量 because it has allowed me to make so many friendships and connections not only with other students, but also faculty. Throughout my time at 黑料正能量, I have grown tremendously as a person, not only growing in my academic journey, but also learning many valuable life lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.鈥
January 2024 Featured Student

Anna Weeks
Anna, a Goldsboro, NC native, chose to accept the invitation to join the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa to 鈥済row stronger leadership, academic, and personal skills, along with the opportunity to meet other scholars around the campus. Phi Theta Kappa provides countless opportunities for its members to grow into adaptable, passionate, and honest scholars and leaders.鈥
She chose to attend 黑料正能量 鈥渂ecause it is local to home. After I graduated high school, I was unsure of what I wanted my future career path to look like. WCC and the wonderful staff helped guide me to find the right path for my career. Since my first day of classes, all my professors have been very supportive and encouraging and have always made WCC feel like 鈥榟ome鈥.鈥
What else sparked Anna鈥檚 love for business? 鈥淚 decided that I wanted to pursue a business degree from watching one of my biggest role models’ successes over the years. My dad is a skilled electrical contractor who has also been an entrepreneur for over 20 years. By watching his leadership, determination, and work-ethic, this encouraged me to always work for what I want. He is a risk-taker, problem-solver, and the most optimistic person I know, and that is why I admire him. My dad has always told me, “I never dreamed of success, I worked for it.” That empowering statement has always stuck with me and motivated me to always chase after my dreams and realize that nothing is impossible.鈥
What are Anna鈥檚 future goals? 鈥淚 graduated this past December with my Associate Degree in Business Administration. After much thought and consideration, I plan to stay at WCC for another two years, as I will be applying for the ADN program in the spring. I am very excited for this next chapter and to see all the opportunities that it brings.鈥
Outside of her studies, Anna enjoys traveling and exploring with her family and friends, spending time with her shih tzu, Bella Grace, shopping at Target and TJ Maxx, and meeting new people.
December 2023 Featured Student
Paige Haines
Paige, a military kid who grew up mainly between England and Germany, chose to accept the invitation to join the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa upon moving to Goldsboro, NC, because she 鈥渨anted to do anything to help the college while I was earning my degree. It is important to me to be involved in the community, especially one that I am new to.鈥
Paige is one of six children in her family. They have lived in three different countries, with North Carolina being the fourth state she has lived in. Paige is looking forward to traveling more and seeing all that she can throughout the world.
She chose to attend 黑料正能量 鈥渂ecause it was closest to (SJAFB) base at first. I wanted to be a substitute teacher, so I took that course, which motivated me to take the courses I am in now. Also, once I saw the campus and how pretty it was in person, I was sold!鈥
So, what are Paige鈥檚 goals now? 鈥淚 am going to try to get into a top college. I went to a community college to save some money but with my associate degree that I will be receiving soon, I will be able to get a decent job. After that, I would like to go into the FBI Academy and pursue my dream of being a Criminal Behavioral Analyst (CSI stuff).鈥
Outside of her studies, Paige enjoys spending time with her two dogs, Ebony and Pepper, crafting and painting when she is motivated, playing soccer, which she has done since she could walk, and volunteering 鈥 especially for Upsilon Chi activities!
When asked for a few extra thoughts, Paige stated, 鈥淚 am very excited to be a part of PTK and anyone that gets an (invitation) email about it, should join! I know that I had a lot of trouble looking for scholarships to complete, but on the account portal, there are many scholarships that one can receive no matter who they are. I also get emails about colleges and transferring so that I know I have options!鈥
November 2023 Featured Student
Anna Hines
Anna, a Mt. Olive, NC native, chose to accept the invitation to join the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa 鈥渢o become more involved on campus鈥 and the community.
She chose to attend 黑料正能量 due to the 鈥渨ell known nursing program鈥 and wanting to make a difference in the lives of everyone she meets. Anna is in the ECU aRIBN program on campus and is looking forward to becoming an Registered Nurse and potentially earning her Bachelors of Science in Nursing through East Carolina University.
Outside of her studies, Anna loves 鈥渂aking, cooking and trips to the beach鈥 with her family and friends.
October 2023 Featured Student
Dustin Neal
Dustin, from Pine Hall, NC, chose to transfer his membership from his previous PTK chapter to the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa 鈥渂ecause it allows me to associate with like-minded students, engage in meaningful service projects, and enhance my academic and leadership skills. Being part of this prestigious honor society will enable me to be part of a community that values excellence in education and the positive impact we can make on our college and community.鈥
Dustin plans to transfer to a university to 鈥渃ontinue my education in criminal justice and, ideally, accept a job at the Federal or State level of law enforcement.鈥
This love for justice and American history began displaying itself in his life around the 5th grade when he memorized all the US presidents and won the school spelling bee! Apart from history,
Dustin enjoys traveling to new places, exploring new sites, playing golf, attending Carolina Panthers football games, and spending time with his family. His faith is essential to him.
September 2023 Featured Student
Kristen Joyner
Kristen, a Kinston, NC native, chose to accept the invitation to join the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa “to prove to others that no matter what you鈥檝e been through in the past you can always achieve your goals.”
She chose to pursue the Business Administration / Operations Management AAS degree at 黑料正能量 due to the flexibility of online courses while being a stay-at-home mom. After graduation, Kristen plans to work full time while reaching more goals she has set for herself.
Outside of her studies, Kristen loves “fishing, riding four wheelers, spending time with her family, and showing others Jesus.”





