JSU Chapter of Phi Delta Kappa International Leader in New Members

On April 22, the Jacksonville State University Chapter of Phi Delta Kappa (Chapter 0211) held its Spring Initiation. Fifty-five candidates were initiated. This number coupled with the fall initiation of new members makes this chapter number one in new members internationally according to Mr. Christian Cherau, a PDK International Board member, who spoke at the initiation.

Mr. Cherau also announced that this marked the JSU chapter's 35th year, as it was chartered on October, 11, 1973. Present at the initiation was Mr. Mitchell W. McKay, former Jacksonville High School principal and one of the signers of the charter.

Another signer of the charter and his wife were honored at the ceremony. Dr. Charlotte Thornburg presented the Thornburg Award, named for her and Dr. Roland Thornburg. The award recognizes the outstanding cooperating teacher for 2008-2009. The first recipient of the Thornburg Award was Ms. Bridgett Vernon who teaches at Kitty Stone Elementary School. Ms. Vernon had also been the recipient of the PDK Graduation Medallion in 2001, and coincidentally her student teacher, Ms. Ashley T. Campbell was this year's recipient of the medallion.

Five high school students were recognized at the initiation ceremony. The Chapter recognized Ms. Toni M. Gibbs, of Ranburne High School and Ms. Lindsey R. Bowen of Geraldine High School as PDK Scholarship Award Recipients. The Chapter was notified in a letter from PDK International that Ms. Gibbs has also been selected for a PDK International Award.

Ms. Megan LeAnne Holland of Sardis High School, Ms. Amie L. Mobley of Ranburne High School, and Ms. Danielle M. Piper of Crossville High School were recognized for their community service with the newly named Dennis C. Zuelke Award for Community Service. Dr. Zuelke was a professor at JSU and continues to be an active member of the chapter. Dr. Zuelke was a leading force for the establishment of this award, and made the presentations personally.

Ms. Toni M. Gibbs of Ranburne High School and Ms. Lindsey R. Bowen of Geraldine High School, PDK Scholarship Award recipients. (courtesy photo)

 

Ms. Bridgette Vernon, winner of the first Thornburg Award, and Ms. Ashley Campbell, winner of the PDK Graduation Medallion.

Mr. Mitchell McKay and Dr. Dennis Zuelke

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