Crowder College Celebrates Phi Theta Kappa Induction

35 students inducted into the Xi Xi Chapter of the international honor society

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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Crowder College held its Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society International Spring Induction ceremony, welcoming 35 new members into the Xi Xi Chapter. The induction celebrated scholarship, leadership, and service, with a keynote address by Dr. Keith Zoromski of Mineral Area College. The ceremony also recognized two Crowder staff members with the inaugural Star Staff and Star Faculty awards.

Why it matters

Phi Theta Kappa is the premier honor society recognizing the academic achievements of students at two-year colleges. The induction ceremony highlights the dedication and hard work of Crowder College students, and the support they receive from faculty and staff to succeed academically and develop as leaders.

The details

The Phi Theta Kappa induction ceremony at Crowder College celebrated the academic accomplishments of 35 students who were inducted into the Xi Xi Chapter. The keynote speaker, Dr. Keith Zoromski of Mineral Area College, encouraged the new members to rely on the leadership, scholarship, and community they gain through PTK to navigate challenges with confidence and purpose. The ceremony also included the inaugural recognition of two Crowder staff awards - the Star Staff Award went to Cindy Brown, and the Star Faculty Award was presented to Stacy Pugh-Towe.

  • The induction ceremony was held on Sunday, March 8, 2026.
  • The 35 new members were inducted into the Xi Xi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa.

The players

Phi Theta Kappa

An international honor society that recognizes students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and a commitment to leadership and service.

Keith Zoromski, Ed.D.

The keynote speaker for the Phi Theta Kappa induction ceremony, and a faculty member at Mineral Area College.

Stacy Pugh-Towe

The recipient of the inaugural Star Faculty Award at Crowder College.

Cindy Brown

The recipient of the inaugural Star Staff Award at Crowder College.

Emily Lewis

The co-advisor for the Xi Xi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa at Crowder College.

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What they’re saying

“As a Xi Xi Chapter Advisor, it is always a privilege to celebrate our students and their accomplishments.”

— Emily Lewis, Co-advisor, Phi Theta Kappa (blogspot.com)

“We are also grateful for the continued support from our college administration, including our President, Chett Daniel, Ed.D., PCED and Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs, Sandra Wilson, for their encouragement of student achievement and leadership helps create opportunities like this for our students to grow and succeed.”

— Emily Lewis, Co-advisor, Phi Theta Kappa (blogspot.com)

The takeaway

The Phi Theta Kappa induction ceremony at Crowder College highlights the college's commitment to fostering academic excellence, leadership, and community engagement among its students. The recognition of outstanding faculty and staff further demonstrates Crowder's dedication to supporting student success.