JACKSON, TENN. – Jackson State Community College (JSCC) Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Chi Omicron Chapter has been awarded the International Hallmark Award for Distinguished College Project during the 2026 PTK Catalyst Convention in Baltimore, Maryland for the development of a “College Survival Guide” digital student resource.
The content throughout the 35+ page document was created by students of the PTK chapter, to answer the age-old college question of “where do I find that?” The guide provides students with information regarding college closure dates, campus resources, tips and tricks, tutoring information and more. Nearly every question a student may have is answered in the resource, thanks to its development by students who have asked those very questions.
“This entire project was completely student-driven,” said Jason Keeton, Associate Professor of Biology and PTK Advisor. “They proposed the idea to me to help incoming students have a resource readily available to help them. They worked with college employees across many departments on our campus to identify every resource imaginable along with asking for common questions they get from students. This information hunt was then compiled and written by PTK members.”
Following the guide’s launch, it won at the state-level, and the Chi Omicron chapter was recognized in February for developing the guide at the Spring 2026 Tennessee PTK Regional Convention held at Union University.
“I’m proud of the remarkable work these students did to create an award-winning resource for their fellow student,” said JSCC President Dr. Carol Rothstein. “This resource helped break-down barriers for our students, showcased resources that some might not know about, and connected students in times of need.”
PTK Officer and SGA President Katie Snow submitted the guide for the International Hallmark Award that was announced at the Catalyst Convention.
Layout and design were developed by Maria Stewart under the creative direction of Chief Marketing & Communications Officer Henry Kilpatrick.
