Last updated on July 8, 2025
Dallas College students demonstrated exceptional leadership and talent this spring, bringing home numerous awards and recognition for their achievements. Dallas College sent representatives to Phi Theta Kappa Catalyst, and the event culminated with a celebration of community, connection and representation.
When Special Academic Programs Senior Manager Rebekah Benavides talks about her involvement as an advisor for Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), she easily identifies a number of advantages students receive by participating fully in the experiences that PTK offers. Students who represent the honor society serve the community and participate in various events, but Benavides says the most impactful experiences include the ability to meet and learn about students from PTK chapters around the world.
Benavides organizes events for all the PTK chapters at Dallas College, and she travels with the members who participate in the yearly assembly. In Spring 2025, more than 60 students and advisors traveled to the Kansas City Convention Center in Kansas City, Missouri.
PTK Students Lead with Purpose –
At the Phi Theta Kappa Catalyst Conference, two Dallas College students stood out for their contributions.
Jehyna Wright earned recognition for her chapter’s innovative Honors in Action project, which focused on supporting incarcerated students pursuing education. Wright explained that her chapter partnered with a local institution to help provide much needed school supplies and support to students completing their education goals, especially those enrolled in HVAC programs.
Faith Lungu’s impetus to get involved with PTK started with her parents. After immigrating from Zambia, they had landed in Dallas and joined Dallas College as students. Both excelled and became members of the Phi Theta Kappa chapter at North Lake Campus. Lungu watched her parents strive, learn and grow in a country far removed from Southern Africa, and PTK was part of their story, and the lessons she learned.
During her own time with PTK, Lungu was drawn to numerous opportunities and adventures, but she especially responded to hearing from students who share stories like her own. She met fellow PTK members who understand what it is like to be part of the Black community and who are willing to share their experience of learning one’s own history and finding the voice to talk about their authentic experiences. The yearly event brings together students from all over the world, and Lungu was comforted by meeting those who understand what it is like to navigate life and college as the daughter of immigrant parents.
At this year’s Catalyst, Lungu made history by becoming the first Dallas College student to receive the prestigious $5,000 Guistwhite Scholarship. The scholarship recognizes Phi Theta Kappa members for leadership accomplishments and outstanding academic achievement during the pursuit of a bachelor’s degree. Reflecting on the moment, she shared, “Being the first person from Dallas College to receive this, walking [across] the stage, waiving at the crowd and taking in the moment was beautiful.”
Dallas College Leadership Recognized –
This year’s Catalyst winners also included leadership awards bestowed upon two Dallas College leaders. Mountain View President Macario Hernandez was recognized in the Hall of Honor for College Administrators and with the Paragon Award for New Presidents. Former North Lake President Christa Slejko, who recently retired, was recognized with the Michael Bennett Lifetime Achievement Award and was inducted to the Hall of Honor for Retiring Presidents.
Congratulations to PTK participants and award winners. They are all inspirational leaders and make their Dallas College family proud. Dallas College thanks all the faculty, staff and advisors who guide PTK programs and initiatives. Their support is essential to student success, and their impact is invaluable.