MACON — Mercer University’s Phi Beta Kappa chapter was one of six recognized as Outstanding Chapters during Phi Beta Kappa’s 47th Triennial Council on Aug. 3, in Washington, D.C.
According to the Phi Beta Kappa Society, recipients of this cycle’s Outstanding Chapter Awards demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to fostering an environment of inclusive excellence, building visibility among their campus communities, and making the most of key relationships on campus to elevate the arts and sciences.
“This recognition highlights our students’ academic achievements and the chapter’s dedication to learning in the liberal arts and sciences,” said Dr. Jeff Denny, Mercer chapter secretary. “Our students demonstrate the highest levels of academic success, and we are elated to celebrate with them.”
The Phi Beta Kappa Society’s Zeta Chapter of Georgia at Mercer was recognized for building a renowned liberal arts lecture series, the Malcolm Lester Lectures, its commitment to inducting a diverse group of students each year, and its tradition of faculty inviting students to join Phi Beta Kappa by coming to a class in regalia.
“An enormous Phi Beta Kappa key sits embedded in a foundation stone from Mercer’s original campus in Phi Beta Kappa Plaza on the historic quad. This monument signifies Mercer’s foundational commitment to the values of the liberal arts,” said Dr. David A. Davis, president of Phi Beta Kappa, Zeta of Georgia.
“We are grateful to the Society for recognizing our commitment to these values and proud of the students who have earned membership in Phi Beta Kappa at Mercer.”
“Phi Beta Kappa occupies a central place both intellectually and physically in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences,” said Dr. John Thomas (Tom) Scott, Mercer chapter resident member and dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. “Intellectually it challenges students to achieve at the highest levels across a wide spectrum of disciplines, and physically our PBK plaza sits in the heart of the old campus, reminding all who pass it of the aspirations of Phi Beta Kappa.”
The awards are presented once every three years.
“It is a privilege to recognize these outstanding chapters for their unwavering commitment to the values of Phi Beta Kappa,” said Frederick M. Lawrence, the Society’s secretary and CEO. “Their innovative programs, strong campus presence, and dedication to inclusive excellence have profoundly impacted their institutions. We deeply appreciate their steadfast commitment to elevate the liberal arts and sciences on their campuses and inspire new generations of students.”
Dr. Katharine Northcutt, Mercer chapter vice president, accepted the award at the event. Other colleges and Universities recognized were Davidson College, Gettysburg College, Drew University, Iowa State University and SUNY Geneseo.
About The Phi Beta Kappa Society
Founded on Dec. 5, 1776, The Phi Beta Kappa Society is the nation’s most prestigious academic honor society. It has chapters at over 290 colleges and universities in the United States, nearly 50 alumni associations, and more than half a million members worldwide. Noteworthy members include 17 U.S. Presidents, 42 U.S. Supreme Court Justices and more than 150 Nobel Laureates. The mission of The Phi Beta Kappa Society is to champion education in the liberal arts and sciences, foster freedom of thought, and recognize academic excellence. For more information, visit www.pbk.org.
