PTK Members Connect Over Service
Students in Clark's honor society volunteer for local clean up event
Donned in gloves and colorful reflective vests, Clark’s Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) students took to the community to celebrate Earth Day in a meaningful way. On April 18, several PTK members participated in the Stop Oregon Litter and Vandalism (SOLVE) Vancouver Clean Up event in downtown Vancouver. They joined fellow community members for a day of giving back by picking up litter, starting at the Waterfront Park and making their way down the Renaissance Trail and farther into town.
While the event focused on cleaning up the community, PTK members took away something special from the experience — connection.
For PTK member Tobias Nelson, the event was a reminder that service is all about connecting with others, the environment, and yourself. “It was so great to meet new people, see old friends, and connect with everyone over a shared commitment to service,” he said. “The event really made me feel more connected to the Vancouver and Clark College communities.”
Similarly, Ceirra Murphy noted a sense of camaraderie between PTK members and volunteers from the community. “People were laughing, working together, and genuinely enjoying themselves,” she said. “There’s something about cleaning up a shared space that just naturally brings people together.” She also appreciated being able to spend time with her fellow PTK members — a rare opportunity given their busy schedules.
Clark’s PTK honor society has a long history of service, and Tobias expressed gratitude at the opportunity to be part of that tradition. “Service events like the SOLVE cleanup remind me of the importance of connection, and it makes me grateful to be a part of such a welcoming community at Clark College.”
One thing that makes PTK stand out from other honors societies is the focus on community and service. Clark College’s chapter, Alpha Sigma Phi, plans at least one service activity per term for members to participate in. In the winter term, PTK partnered with the Penguin Pantry for their service activity. This term, PTK organized this clean-up opportunity, and they are currently planning a second service activity.
About Phi Theta Kappa at Clark College
Phi Theta Kappa has been recognized as an official honor society at Clark College since 1991. For more than 100 years, Phi Theta Kappa has recognized academic achievement while helping students develop professional and leadership skills, earn scholarships, and explore career pathways.
PTK members represent a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. Many are working adults, students preparing to transfer to four-year universities, or individuals pursuing new career opportunities. They span all ages, majors, and career fields, united by a commitment to academic excellence and personal growth.
Membership to PTK is by invitation only — eligible students are invited at the end of each term and are required to have a 3.25 cumulative GPA after completing at least 12 credits towards a degree or 6 credits towards a certificate program.
At Clark College, the Alpha Sigma Phi Chapter gives students opportunities to expand their leadership abilities, connect with peers, and broaden their horizons both inside and outside the classroom.
Learn more about Clark College’s Alpha Sigma Phi Chapter. Contact: ptk@clark.edu
Photos courtesy of Clark College’s Phi Theta Kappa
Story by Malena Goerl, Staff Writer, Communications and Marketing