Liam Blakeway, a student at Lone Star College-Cyfair in Texas, has been named Student Representative to the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society (PTK) Board of Directors.
Blakeway graduated with an associate of science degree from Lone Star College in May 2023 and is now taking additional classes in education at the college. While his initial end goal had been to enter the medical field as a radiology technician, his journey at community college inspired him to redirect his focus to education, so he could help people succeed throughout their academic journey. At Catalyst 2023, Blakeway was elected to serve as Phi Theta Kappa’s 2023-24 International President, the highest leadership position available to students in the organization.
“The Board is pleased to welcome Liam’s valuable insight and guidance as we implement the Society’s strategic priorities and our long-term vision of making Community Colleges first-choice institutions for higher education,” said Dr. George Boggs, Chair of the PTK Board of Directors and President and CEO Emeritus of the American Association of Community Colleges.
PTK welcomed Blakeway and made him feel connected as an international student from South Africa. In his PTK chapter, Blakeway served as Beta Lambda Mu’s Vice President of Scholarship before being elected as the Chapter President.
In all aspects of his life, Blakeway works to create a culture that values inclusivity and diversity. He works to break down barriers and examine solutions on how to create equity.
PTK has allowed Blakeway the opportunity to work towards his goals and grow as a leader.
“As an unconventional college student, part of the LGBTQ+ community, and a foreigner, I struggled to find a sense of belonging. However, this changed when I received my invitation from Phi Theta Kappa because I found something more than an honor society,” Blakeway said. “I found a brotherhood and sisterhood of like-minded high achievers who wish nothing more than to see each other excel. My journey and growth with Phi Theta Kappa has been profoundly impactful. I am honored to serve an organization that deeply values its members and works to create an environment of supportive camaraderie.” The Phi Theta Kappa Board of Directors governs all policies of PTK and ensures that the Society’s mission to nurture academic excellence among college students is reflected in all its programs and endeavors.