Phi Kappa Phi honors sophomores for academic excellence

Commonwealth University’s chapter of Phi Kappa Phi, one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious honor societies, recently celebrated the academic achievements of more than 60 sophomores of varying majors at Bloomsburg, qualifying them for future induction into the international society.

Membership in Phi Kappa Phi is earned through admission by invitation only, nominated by a chapter.

Eligibility requirements:

• Juniors must have completed at least 72 credits and rank in the top 7.5% of their class.
• Seniors must have completed at least 90 credits and rank in the top 10% of their class.
• Graduate and professional students must have completed at least 18 credits at their institution and rank in the top 10% of their class.

Christina Francis, professor of English and president of Commonwealth’s Phi Kappa Phi chapter, opened the ceremony by commending the students for their dedication to academic excellence.

“Your academic performance has brought you to this point,” Francis said. “When you become juniors, you’ll have the opportunity to officially join Phi Kappa Phi and gain access to a worldwide network of scholars and resources. Our motto, ‘Let the love of learning rule humanity,’ reminds us that education is not just an achievement but a lifelong pursuit.”

Francis highlighted the organization’s extensive scholarship and grant opportunities, noting that many members leverage Phi Kappa Phi’s support to pursue graduate degrees or advanced studies in fields ranging from business to the sciences and creative arts. She also encouraged students to balance academic dedication with personal growth and exploration.

“High achievers sometimes focus so much on success that they forget to enjoy the college experience,” Francis said. “It’s important to stay open to new interests and unexpected passions. The path to learning doesn’t always have to be straight — it can twist and turn, and that can make it even more meaningful.”

Following Francis’s remarks, student vice president Anna Sears, a senior digital forensics and cybersecurity and anthropology major, shared her story of self-discovery. She spoke about the uncertainty she faced as a sophomore and how her academic journey led her to rediscover her passion through an unexpected major in anthropology.

“Growth often happens when we feel unsure,” Sears said. “When we let the love of learning guide us, we not only achieve personal success but also uplift others and contribute to something greater than ourselves.”

Sears encouraged students to take advantage of every opportunity and to embrace challenges as part of their academic and personal growth.

“Your time here will pass faster than you think,” she said. “So be proud of what you’ve achieved but keep looking forward. Keep striving, questioning, and letting your love of learning light the path ahead.”

Phi Kappa Phi Sophomore Recognition

Abby Shaheen, Abigail Twiddy, Alexa Deiter, Alex Pigos, Ali Smith, Allie Harper, Allie Wenrich, Aly Hebel, Alyssa MacIver, Amanda Gettle, Andrew Beagle, Andrew Sharrow, Ava Serafin, Ava Shearer, Avery Cavanaugh, Avery Curtis, Bailey O'Keefe, Bella Foster, Brandi Patterson, Brianna Gisler, Brooke Alexander, Brynn Neidigh, Celina Gubhaju, Chloe Newbury, Danielle Rush, Decoda Williams, Emily Rowland, Emma O'Neill, Finn Garner, Gabriella Marosevitch, Giana Correia, Grace Clippinger, Hannah Frederick, Haylie Heverly, Jacob Hollenbach, Jon Patterson, Kaidence McCormac, Kellsey Eyer, Kiri Emmert, Lizzie Ehmann, Lomie Falb, Maddy Mascho, Madison Shrimp, Maren Coyle, Matteo Carestia, Michelle Latoraco, Mitchell Hamilton, Molly Bross, Molli Petro, Olivia Brady, Paige Elcock, Paige Seay, Rachel Marino, Reagan Reisinger, Reese Foltz, Sydney McCormick, Theresa Kollar, Theo Gorman, Trevor Johnson, Varonica DiPasquale, Will Saner.