The Walters State Community College chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society for community college students, was recognized for its leadership and service at both the state and national levels.

The chapter’s officers were recognized as the Tennessee Regional Distinguished Chapter Officer Team. Officers are Kelly Hornberger, president; Mia Kathaynas, vice president of leadership; Connor Shelton, vice president of service; Orlando Bueno, vice president of scholarship; Karina Mesa Ramirez, vice president of fellowship; and Gabriella Sanchez, vice president of public relations. Dr. Lisa Eccles, professor of biology, is advisor to the chapter.

At the state level, the chapter was also named a Chapter of Light for leadership and service and received the Icarus Award, given to the state’s top literary chapter.

Ramirez was named both the Tennessee Regional Distinguished Chapter Officer and the International Distinguished Chapter Officer.

Walters State also received the International 5-Star Chapter award, one of the highest honors bestowed. Eccles was also recognized for 15 years of service as a chapter advisor.