(Clarksdale, Mississippi) —The Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society (PTK) Alpha Omicron Pi Chapter continues to gain recognition for its commitment to scholarship, leadership, service, and fellowship, recently earning honors on both the international and national levels.
At the 2026 PTK Catalyst Convention, the chapter was named among the top 100 PTK chapters in the world, a distinction that places Coahoma among an elite group out of approximately 1,200 chapters worldwide. Adding to the milestone, chapter advisor Monica M. Tompkins received the Distinguished Chapter Advisor Award, recognizing her outstanding leadership and dedication to student success on an international stage.
The recognition reflects years of consistent effort and a strong culture of excellence within the chapter. Under Tompkins’ guidance, students have not only maintained a high level of academic achievement but have also grown as leaders through active participation in regional meetings, annual Catalyst conventions, and hands-on project work that extends beyond the classroom.
Tompkins has been instrumental in shaping the student experience within PTK at Coahoma. From ensuring members attend leadership conferences to personally guiding them through research projects and scholarship opportunities, her approach is both structured and deeply personal. Students are introduced early to expectations and opportunities, helping them transition smoothly into the organization while building confidence and accountability along the way.
Her commitment to PTK’s mission is evident in how she recruits and supports members. By actively identifying eligible students and maintaining consistent communication through emails, letters, and follow-ups, she ensures no qualified student is overlooked. Induction ceremonies are thoughtfully organized to celebrate each student’s academic accomplishments, reinforcing the value of excellence from the very beginning of their PTK journey.
Mrs. Tompkins keeps members engaged by promoting leadership development programs such as PTK EDGE, mentoring students through college and honors in action projects, and encouraging participation in scholarships and academic initiatives. Her hands-on support helps students navigate challenges, refine ideas, and stay motivated, even when projects become demanding.
Her leadership also extends beyond campus. Serving as the Northern Mississippi Representative for the PTK Mississippi/Louisiana Region, Tompkins plays an active role in regional programming and leadership development. She ensures students have access to these opportunities by coordinating travel, managing logistics, and finding creative ways to secure funding so that financial barriers do not limit participation.
Equally important is her advocacy for the chapter within the campus and surrounding community. Whether organizing outreach events, supporting service initiatives, or building partnerships with local organizations, Tompkins works to elevate the visibility and impact of PTK. From assisting with campus pantry awareness efforts to helping facilitate community-based projects, her involvement reinforces the chapter’s role as a meaningful contributor to both the college and the region.
This latest recognition highlights not only the achievements of the Alpha Omicron Pi Chapter but also the strength of its leadership and the dedication of its members.
Students interested in joining the Phi Theta Kappa organization at Coahoma Community College can contact Monica Tompkins at (662) 621-4671 or by email at mtompkins@coahomacc.edu. For more information about membership and upcoming opportunities, contact Joharrison Rockett at (662) 621-4211 or jrockett@coahomacc.edu.
Boilerplate
Founded in 1949, Coahoma Community College is a public, comprehensive, historically
Black community college serving the heart of the Mississippi Delta. Coahoma offers
Associate of Arts degrees, Associate of Applied Science degrees, and specialized certificates
across dozens of diverse academic and career pathways. Located on a 99-acre campus
in Clarksdale, Mississippi, the College is celebrating 77 years of academic excellence.
In addition to its affordable tuition and generous scholarship opportunities, Coahoma
has earned widespread recognition in nursing and health sciences, career-technical
education, and university transfer programs. Outside of the classroom, students are
involved in competitive NJCAA athletics as well as a variety of organizations and
clubs, including student government, the celebrated college choir, and the renowned
Marching Maroon Typhoon Band.