Few things are better than giving — giving gifts to those you love, giving thanks for what you have, and giving back to the world around you. Why give? Let’s ask donors who contribute to the PTK Foundation.
Michelle Gietl wears many hats — chapter advisor, Rocky Mountain-Cascade Regional Coordinator, and Vice Chair of the Association of Chapter Advisors. She’s also an alumna and a donor to the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation. Here she answers our questions about why she gives.
Describe your experience as a member?
I became a chapter officer shortly after becoming a member. I knew from the beginning there was something special about Phi Theta Kappa. As a non-traditional student, I felt it was a place where I fit. I was able to grow as a scholar and leader. I served as the chapter president for two years. During that time my chapter officer team was able to start our chapter’s Five Star winning streak. I made lifelong friends and will cherish my experience for a lifetime.
What has it been like to serve as a chapter advisor and Regional Coordinator?
I have been serving as an advisor for my home chapter since 2011, and I became the Associate Regional Coordinator of the Rocky Mountain-Cascade Region in January 2015. In May 2018, I was named Regional Coordinator. It has been the most incredible experience to be a servant leader within Phi Theta Kappa.
One of the most rewarding aspects of these positions is to see the amount of growth in my chapter and regional officers. To see them succeed academically and personally makes me so proud. My students are a huge part of my life. I invest my time in their future, whether I am writing a letter of recommendation, having a lively discussion on a road trip or just being there when they need a shoulder to cry on.
My nickname on both leadership teams is “Mama Bear.” They are my cubs. I want to protect them but let them grow at the same time. Being an advisor/Regional Coordinator has given me the opportunity to grow both professionally and personally, but most of all it’s rewarding to know that I can be a small part of a student’s life and hopefully make an impact.
Why do you give to the PTK Foundation?
I cannot put a price tag on what Phi Theta Kappa has done for me. I know the organization still has so much to offer me and in return, I will serve. The reason I give to the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation is simple, the members. Our members have opportunities that are unique only to PTK. I want to make sure that we continue to see our members grow as leaders and scholars.
With a monthly gift of $5, by the end of a year you are providing a Golden Opportunity member scholarship for one qualified student. It’s easy — just visit the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation website and choose the “Give Monthly” option.
