Top of the heap
May 14, 2025
Is Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) a big deal? Yes, it is. PTK is the oldest and most prestigious U.S. honor society for two-year colleges.
Nineteen UNM-Taos Lobos, with eight in attendance, joined the esteemed list during an afternoon induction ceremony on May 7 at Padre Martinez Hall. The 2025 members bring the running UNM-Taos total, since 2022, to 87. To become a member, a student must receive an invitation from the PTK chapter at their college. The New Mexico region of Phi Theta Kappa serves more than 20 state chapters.
UNM-Taos is the Beta Upsilon Iota Chapter, established in 2013. The local chapter determines eligibility, and requirements can vary by chapter. UNM-Taos requirements are that students maintain a 3.5 GPA or higher, and a specific number of credits must be completed.
PTK Chapter Advisor and Supervisor of Academic Advising Bayley Byers kicked off the ceremony, followed by remarks of pride and encouragement from Dean of Instruction Dr. Randi Archuleta and Chancellor Dr. Mary Gutierrez, respectively.
The Lighting of the Candles of Knowledge was next, led by Academic Advisor Angelique Vargas. She explained it as a traditional part of the PTK induction ceremony, where new members ceremoniously light candles, symbolizing the "flame of knowledge" they will carry forward in their academic journey. This gesture, along with receiving membership certificates and taking an oath, marks their official induction into the honor society.
PTK provides scholarships, leadership development, and a platform to showcase achievements, helping members stand out from the crowd. This mark of academic excellence and leadership is recognized by employers, scholarship providers, and four-year colleges and universities.
