The MHCC Board was recognized for its work with the 2018 Board of Trustees Excellence Award. The award celebrates the leadership and commitment to student success of trustee boards at postsecondary institutions and is given by the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society. The MHCC Board was the only one of four selected nationally for the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) award.
Serving as a trustee of a community college can often be a difficult job. Members of the Mt. Hood Community College Board of Education are volunteers and not paid for their time. They work diligently within their communities to advocate for the college and for student success. And they do all this while serving four-year board positions and helping to guide the college and its mission.
“The MHCC District Board not only provides financial support for our Phi Theta Kappa chapter, but board members also participate in chapter activities and attend our events,” said Beth Sammons, MHCC instructor and adviser to the college’s PTK chapter, Rho Theta.
“One major way that the Board has supported Rho Theta over the years is by ensuring that one-third of each new club member’s dues are paid,” added Sammons. “As a result, Rho Theta has the lowest dues among PTK chapters in the Northwest.”
Members of the Board also attend Rho Theta induction ceremonies and participate in the club’s outreach campaigns and efforts. Rho Theta members provide annual updates to the Board on their efforts and initiatives.
“This award speaks to the commitment and tireless efforts of our Board members,” said MHCC President Dr. Lisa Skari. “Like the college, they’re dedicated to supporting our students, transforming lives through education, and championing community building, and we’re proud of their work.”
MHCC and the MHCC Board of Directors maintain a commitment to three core themes. These include providing the necessary tools to nurture and build upon learner success; partnering with businesses, government agencies and nonprofits to deliver state-of-the-art training and skills development; and taking pride in the local community through engagement in education, economic and cultural opportunities.
“We’re grateful for this honor from the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society, Beth Sammons and the Rho Theta students,” said Diane McKeel, chair of the MHCC Board of Education. “We’re excited for what the future holds for MHCC and for its students, staff and our community.”
MHCC’s Board members will be presented with the award at the Association of Community College Trustee Leadership Congress, Regional Awards Luncheon, held Oct. 26 in New York City.