The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) chapter of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), Beta Eta Nu, was recently announced as a 5-star PTK chapter for the 2025-26 academic year.

According to Joe Pastorino, SWCC PTK chapter advisor, this achievement shows the dedication and teamwork of members and supporters.

"We worked with the college administration to encourage scholarship applications and make college affordable," stated Pastorino. "We also researched cinema's impact on culture and screened the Disney movie Encanto on campus. Our chapter met goals in leadership, growth, outreach, networking, and community impact to earn 5-star status. Thank you to everyone who made a positive impact!"

Phi Theta Kappa is an international honor society for two-year college students. Its purpose is to honor and recognize academic achievement among community college students and provide opportunities for personal and professional growth.

To be eligible for PTK membership, students must earn a cumulative GPA of 3.5 on at least 12 transferable credit hours earned at SWCC. Membership is by invitation only.