After 15 years of dedicated service to the international honor society of community colleges, UNM-Valencia Campus Academic Advisor, Tracy Owen, was recognized by Phi Theta Kappa.

“My time in Phi Theta Kappa was the best part of my job," she said. "I was able to see students learn and exercise leadership roles, win scholarships, make friends and get out in the world."

Tracy Owen 2

As the chapter advisor, Owen was tasked with recruiting members and officers, coordinating meetings and events, maintaining a budget, fundraising and guiding students to and during conferences.

The Owen-led chapter submitted its “Campus Resources” project during the 2019-2020 academic year, leading The UNM-Valencia chapter to receive The College Project Award from the New Mexico region. This projected consisted of disseminating information to students about tutoring and veteran resources, support programs, food access, library information, police support and various resources on campus.

“Every year we try to complete a college project that has some impact on the campus. This last year, being a pandemic year with many changes, we found it important to have resources for students to get the help they needed,” Owen said. “A quick resource guide; we will use one every year and give it to all new students.”