Scholarship Project: Community Symposium

On Wednesday, February 6, students, faculty, and staff were invited to our symposium held in the cafeteria to discuss issues of the Honors Study Topic: “Customs, Traditions, and Celebrations: The Human Drive for Community.” Attendees chose one of the ten issues listed in the Honors Study Topic guide, and then joined others at a table that focused on that topic. Each issue table had a moderator who was either an Alpha Kappa Alpha member or a college faculty member. After the discussion period, each small group reported its conclusions to the large group. As an extra incentive for participators, we gave away cash prizes for the best contributors from each group. Participants indicated that they enjoyed the symposium and benefited greatly from the discussion.

Give Someone a Warm Fuzzie!

Do you ever think about the things you say or do? Do you sometimes wish that more people cared about you and what you do? People do care; however, social stigmas have frowned upon randomly sharing those feelings. Phi Theta Kappa has the answer to sharing how much you appreciate individuals. Between the science department and college center, and between the second floor English Faculty offices, Science hall, and Fine Arts corridors, there are posters featuring cards for Warm Fuzzies.

1. Noun: A note to promote positive feelings for others.
2. Adjective: Describing an act of kindness to another individual.

It feels great to get or give a warm fuzzie. There are two posters up; look for more coming soon. Our goal for this project is to spread a kindhearted atmosphere on campus and in the community. A special thank you to Ms. Katie Gaitan’s Interpersonal Communication classes for donating ideas.

Advocacy Days Rally

On Wednesday, February 13, Phi Theta Kappa members, along with students from Normandale Student Senate and Program Board attended the Advocacy Days rally at the Minnesota State Capital. The rally, sponsored by the Minnesota State College Student Association (MSCSA), was an effort to combat tuition hikes proposed by the Minnesota State Legislature. Students enjoyed beautiful weather outside before being invited into the rotunda. Thanks to all who showed their support by attending this rally. Their efforts will keep the cost of college tuition from rising.

Minn-Wi-Kota Regional Convention

The Minn-Wi-Kota region held its 33rd annual Regional Convention for Phi Theta Kappa at Anoka-Ramsey Community College in Coon Rapids on February 22 and 23. The Normandale chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha went with hopes of obtaining Regional Honors Chair, 5-Star Chapter status, and various Hallmark awards. Our chapter won the office of Regional Mini-Honors Chair, honorable mention in the Scholarship Hallmark, the Pinnacle Scholarship, and 5-Star Chapter Status. At the convention three general sessions were held focusing on volunteer resources, team performance, and the Muslim community in America. Overall it was an enriching experience for all who attended.