Phi Theta Kappa, or PTK, is the American Association of Community Colleges’ official honor society for community colleges. Membership is based on superior academic achievement and is conferred only by invitation of your local chapter. PTK promotes academic achievement and provides service opportunities for professional growth and fellowship. And it has a new president for its Wisconsin Region: Cris Mendoza.
Mendoza, a Blackhawk Technical College graduate of the Medical Assistant program and current student in the Nursing program, is serving as the organization’s regional president from June of this year through May 2027. She succeeds the former president, April Decker, from the Alpha Xi Iota chapter at Gateway Technical College. Blackhawk is home to PTK’s Beta Rho Psi chapter.
“Serving as the president for the Wisconsin Region of Phi Theta Kappa is an opportunity to represent chapters across the state while inspiring student leaders to grow through scholarship, leadership, service, and fellowship,” Mendoza said.
The regional president collaborates with chapter officers, supports regional events and conferences, promotes PTK initiatives, and serves as a voice for students. This leadership role focuses on building connections between chapters, encouraging member engagement, and helping create meaningful opportunities for student success and leadership development.
“Leadership isn't measured by the title you hold, but by the legacy you leave behind,” Mendoza said. “As PTK president, I hope every conversation, every service project, every conference, and every opportunity plants a seed that continues to grow long after my term ends. ‘Leaves of Legacy’ reminds us that just like leaves nourish the tree for future seasons, our actions today create the foundation for tomorrow's leaders. My goal is not simply to lead; I want to inspire others to discover their potential, serve with purpose, and leave behind a legacy that continues to flourish long after we've turned the page to a new season.”
PTK Wisconsin Region officers are selected annually by student leaders from across the state. Officers represent their chapters, plan and host regional conferences, and represent the state at the annual PTK convention, coming next spring in Texas. The annual regional officer goals support growth and development of PTK’s state and local chapters as well as individual members.