Events
Phi Kappa Phi (PKP) Chapter 203 is proud to host its annual Initiation Ceremony each spring semester. Our chapter hosts additional events throughout the academic year as a way to earn funds to support scholarships and awards, and to build camaraderie and promote lifelong learning among chapter members.
Student Scholars Service Initiative
The Phi Kappa Phi Student Scholars are sponsoring a special collection for Challenge Unlimited housing residents through Monday, January 31. The adult residents of these homes are on fixed incomes but enjoy items that will keep them active, such as craft kits, puzzles and coloring books, along with “fun” stuff like crazy socks, beads and nail polish. Collection boxes are out at four campus locations. Contact Cindy Scarsdale with questions or to arrange for a pick up.
Initiation
The PKP Initiation Ceremony celebrates and welcomes new initiates to Chapter 203. These individuals have been chosen on the basis of their superior scholarship and incredible service and achievement. At the initiation ceremony, new members are presented with a certificate of membership, as well as an emblem in the form of a pin. Additionally, our chapter provides students with a PKP medallion, which is most often worn by members at commencement.
Traditionally an in-person ceremony held in the Morris University Center on campus, the pandemic that transpired in 2020 and continued in 2021 led to the ceremony being reimagined. In spring 2021, PKP presented a hybrid initiation. An in-person event meeting all COVID-19 safety requirements was held. New initiates gathered their PKP medallion, pin, membership certificate and an ‘e’ treat. They were then led to an outdoor photo opportunity with PKP members who serve as senior leaders on campus, including the Chancellor and three Vice Chancellors. Additionally, a virtual, asynchronous ceremony was produced and shared with all members of PKP Chapter 203.
The 2022 PKP Initiation Ceremony will be held Wednesday, April 13. Please save the date and watch for future details.
Book Exchange
With the motto, take a book, leave a book, PKP regularly hosts book exchanges at which donated reading materials can be purchased at low cost. Individuals can choose to donate books in exchange for “new” gently used ones, or purchase paperback books for $.50 each or hardcover books for $1. These exchanges offer a great opportunity to promote the work of PKP, make students aware of scholarship opportunities and raise funds to support the chapter’s ongoing efforts.
Membership Development
Each year, PKP Student Scholars coordinate a few events that serve to expand networks, build skills and promote educational opportunities. These vary by semester to meet the interests of current members.
For the 2020-21 academic year, the Student Scholars Executive Committee met monthly via Zoom. The following events were also hosted by the Phi Kappa Phi Student Scholars on Zoom:
- “Resume Tips and Review” on Nov. 12, 2020, led by Eileen Martindale of the SIUE Career Development Center
- “Finding your Way as a Freshman” on Feb. 1, 2021. The PKP Student Scholar officers led a session for underclassmen that offered tips on studying, time management, etc., and provided information on student organizations, and other “insider” information for SIUE students. This session was coordinated with the Phi Eta Sigma freshman honor society.
- “Preparing for your Future: Graduate Entry Exams, Professionalism and Networking” was led by John Killingbeck on Feb. 24, 2021. John was the first president of the PKP Student Scholars and just completed his second year at The George Washington School of Law in Washington, DC.
- An information session for students who were invited to join PKP on March 4, 2021
- A welcome session for new PKP student initiates and current student members on April 20, 2021
Notably, the Phi Kappa Phi Students Scholars were recognized with two Kimmel Leadership Awards for the 2020-21 academic year. The “Resume Tips and Review” session was selected for the Educational Program Award, and Cindy Scarsdale received the Advisor Award.
Fall Nature Walk
The PKP Student Scholars hosted a Fall Nature Walk in The Gardens at SIUE on Tuesday, Oct. 19, 2021. Participants enjoyed a walking tour during which they identified fall foliage in The Gardens. Dr. Betsy Esselman, professor in the Department of Biological Sciences, served as our guide.
