ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. — The Nu Nu chapter of Phi Theta Kappa at College of The Albemarle held its annual induction ceremony this spring, welcoming 21 new members and celebrating a year of distinguished achievement. The event highlighted the chapter’s commitment to academic excellence, leadership and service on campus and across the region.
The newly inducted members are Kafia Almuzerawi, Katerine Bellamy, Heather Ballance, Ani DeSmidt, Josefin Engner, Emily Gray, Akaia Hancock, Andrew Heath, Shiniquek “Shy” Hunter, Charles Lancaster, Caitlin Milam, Jennifer Pena-Munoz, Mary Shepard, Brynlee Stevens, Tammy Staten, Hayley Tisdale, Crystal Turner, Charles White, Carolee “Pixie” Wescott, Lakota Smith and Madilyn Young.
Photo (l-r): Kafia Almuzerawi, Aimee Marsh, and Joshua Hughes – Nu Nu Chapter Induction Ceremony Spring 2025
Chapter officers, supported by advisor Leah Allen Jones, conducted the ceremony and shared reflections on the chapter’s many accomplishments. This year, Nu Nu achieved Five Star Chapter status, the highest level of recognition in Phi Theta Kappa, and was awarded the 2025 Carolinas Region Website Award, which includes a $75 scholarship to support regional engagement. The chapter also earned honorable mention for the Carolinas Regional Distinguished Community Service Award for its donation to the American Red Cross in support of disaster relief efforts in western North Carolina.
Several members received individual honors. Aimee Marsh, Tammy Staten and Bailey Joyner completed six PTK Edge courses. Joyner also earned honorable mention for the 2024 Distinguished Chapter Member Award and was inducted into the Carolinas Region Hall of Honor. Hayley Tisdale was recognized as a recipient of the PTK Golden Opportunity Scholarship. Advisor Leah Allen Jones was recognized as a 2024 Five Star Chapter Advisor. Jones, along with Andrew Heath, Joshua Hughes and Aimee Marsh, was inducted into the Alpha Omega Carolinas Regional Alumni Association.
The chapter presented the Evonne Carter Champion of Excellence Award, named in honor of former COA Vice President Evonne Carter, to Joshua Hughes for outstanding service and leadership. Hughes led the chapter to Five Star status, directed the Honors in Action project “Preserving Community College Graduate Voices,” organized campus events and consistently supported member engagement. He has been accepted to Howard University, where he will continue his studies this fall.
During the ceremony, the chapter formally recognized Jennifer Lopes, COA Vice President of Learning, who has joined the Nu Nu chapter as a chapter advisor. In appreciation of her encouragement, leadership and continued support of the society, Lopes was honored with a Stole of Gratitude, a Phi Theta Kappa tradition that symbolizes the chapter’s deep appreciation for those who have made a significant impact.
Lopes also delivered the keynote address, offering guidance and encouragement to the inductees.
“You are the future leaders, thinkers and changemakers of our community, and as members of Phi Theta Kappa, you have access to tools that can help you unlock your full potential,” Lopes said. “Use your talents to uplift others—your peers, your college community and society at large. May this membership be a source of inspiration and opportunity as you continue on your journey toward excellence.”
The Nu Nu chapter thanks its members, advisors and supporters for a successful year and looks ahead to continued excellence in scholarship, service, leadership and fellowship.
For information or media inquiries, contact Tammy W. Sawyer, director of communications and marketing, at 252-335-0821, ext. 2420, or [email protected].