MSU has opened a chapter of Phi Kappa Phi on campus, joining other colleges in the Texas Tech System. PKP president-elect Catherine Earley discussed the benefits of the honor society. 

“Phi Kappa Phi is an honor society for all disciplines. The wonderful thing about this is that it connects students, alumni, scholars, and faculty from all different academic disciplines together in what Phi Kappa Phi considers an ecosystem of learners,” Earley said. “It’s about connecting lifelong learners. They have a great online platform that allows you to connect with people all throughout the membership all over the country.” 

The university has to work for a year and a half to create a chapter for students at MSU.

“I’m really glad that we did it. It’s not an easy process. It was a year-and-a-half-long process. And part of that includes examination of the university for excellence and opportunities to students. Really the activities that demonstrate the love of learning across the campus.” Earley said. 

The school has many organizations that showcase the students’ love of learning. In order to be initiated into the organization, students must be of at least junior standing.

“The university helps to recognize the members who are eligible and then once students respond to the invitation, it’s going ahead joining, paying the national dues, and attending the initiation ceremony to be initiated as a new member,” Earley said. 

After being initiated, members are involved for life. They have the opportunity to continue in the organization throughout their graduate programs and beyond. 

“It’s a tremendous honor for students but it’s also a phenomenal opportunity. So students who become members as undergraduates can continue their membership and apply for all those great opportunities throughout their graduate studies,” Earley said. “So if they go to a different campus they can follow through and interact with the members there but also members all over the country.” 

Members are able to connect with other students, both nationwide and at MSU.

“I think it’s a great opportunity to involve students, to recognize our students, to connect our students, and to connect them not only within our institution but also throughout the country. So I really look forward to being able to make more opportunities available to the students on our campus and increasing recognition of the great work that they’re already doing,” Earley said.