Dr. Tracy Mancini to Receive Shirley B. Gordon Award of Distinction

Phi Theta Kappa | Named 2024 REACH Chapter

Carteret Community College is proud to announce that President Dr. Tracy Mancini has been selected as a recipient of the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society’s Shirley B. Gordon Award of Distinction. This esteemed award recognizes college presidents who have demonstrated outstanding support for PTK and its members, fostering student success and academic excellence.

Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) is the official honor society for two-year colleges. Founded in 1918, PTK celebrates academic achievement and fosters personal growth, leadership, and service among community and technical college students. With nearly 1,250 chapters in 11 nations and over 4.3 million students inducted, PTK provides a transformative experience, connecting its 230,000 active members to opportunities for scholarships, leadership development, and success beyond the classroom.

Dr. Mancini will be honored at PTK’s annual Catalyst convention in April in Kansas City, Missouri. Recipients of this award are nominated by students on their campus and can only receive the distinction once in their career.

“I am deeply honored to receive the Shirley B. Gordon Award of Distinction,” said Dr. Mancini. “At a former institution I had the privilege of starting a PTK chapter and serve as an advisor. I witnessed firsthand how PTK transforms students’ academic and personal growth. When I came to Carteret CC, I remained committed to supporting our students and advisors as they strengthen our chapter and expand leadership, service, and scholarship opportunities. This award reflects their dedication, and I look forward to seeing PTK continue to thrive on our campus.”

Under Dr. Mancini’s leadership, Carteret Community College’s Beta Delta Pi chapter has achieved significant milestones, including being named a 2024 REACH Chapter by Phi Theta Kappa. The REACH Rewards program recognizes and rewards PTK chapters that excel in membership development. PTK established this program to ensure that as many students as possible receive the benefits of membership, including scholarships and increased opportunities for engagement with peers and faculty—leading to higher rates of completion.

Since coming to Carteret CC, Dr. Mancini has been a driving force in expanding PTK’s impact at the College. Her efforts in securing grant funding, championing service projects, and increasing access to PTK membership have helped transform the Beta Delta Pi chapter from a student-led initiative into a college-wide movement. Under her guidance, Carteret CC has established a PTK grant through the College Foundation, ensuring continuous financial support for scholarships, conference attendance, and service projects.

“Dr. Mancini’s commitment to PTK goes beyond funding—she fosters a culture of service and academic excellence,” said PTK Advisor Jennifer Fox. “Through initiatives like the Dolly Parton Imagination Library book drive, the expansion of our campus food pantry, and the creation of a dedicated PTK awards showcase, she has created opportunities for students to lead, grow, and give back to the community.”

Her leadership has also increased accessibility and awareness of PTK membership. By advocating for dedicated club space and fostering collaborations with other student organizations, Dr. Mancini has created a welcoming environment where students can engage in leadership, fellowship, and service.

Dr. Mancini’s unwavering support has been instrumental in guiding Carteret CC’s PTK chapter to new heights, elevating it to a five-star chapter status and now earning the 2024 REACH Chapter recognition. This distinction highlights the College’s ongoing commitment to student success and engagement.

Carteret Community College congratulates Dr. Mancini on this well-deserved honor and celebrates the continued achievements of the Beta Delta Pi chapter of Phi Theta Kappa.

For more information about Phi Theta Kappa at Carteret Community College, visit www.carteret.edu.