| November_2003_Special_Recognitions |
| Kappa Tau has been extremely fortunate to have had in our club a gentleman, who for the past year has exemplified what it means to be a member of Phi Theta Kappa. His name is John Meeks, and he is in his second year with the Longview Community College. John plans on going into the music sound recording industry for his career, and is working quite hard at achieving those goals. Not only does John work hard at his studies, and for Phi Theta Kappa, he is also president of the Computer Club here on Campus, a member of the Disability Club, which he was instrumental in getting reactivated this semester. He not only attends Longview Community College but also attends UMKC as well. As one might imagine John has a very busy schedule, but is never to busy to help out anyone who is in need. Even though he was not a member of our chapter, John came with his wife Lois (one of our officers) and threw himself into helping in whatever way he could. He attended our honor conferences, and in short order made lots of friends with his infectious humor, his keen curiosity, his willingness to help and learn, and a rather large heart that refuses to turn away anyone who is in need. John has been envolved with our many programs like Adopt-a-Road, Day of Caring, the Blood Drive, Project Graduation, the multiple chapter July picnic, the school supply drive, the food drives for Hope House, Rachel House and Harvesters, volunteered for the help desk each semester, worked in the fundraisers like the Valentine Day's carnation sale, putting up the flyers for the Jewelery sale, and the Walk to Cure Diabetes in which he also partipated in the event. What makes this man truly unique in his attitude, help, and outlook on life is that he has cerebral palsy and is in a wheelchair. Yet, this does not even slow him down, as he refuses to allow it from robbing him of his dreams. He wants to show the world of the able bodied individuals that the disabled have as much to offer as anyone else if they are just given the chance to do so. He is a staunch advocate for disability rights and access in the schools, colleges, the work place, and the community. He has met all the criteria of being a active member, just hasn't met the GPA guideline, and so it was our pleasure and honor to recognize him for all the hard work he has done for Phi Theta Kappa. At the induction ceremony on October 12th, 2003 he was presented with a special award by Diane Sager our Co-Advisor. This award not only recognised John's contributions at our local chapter, not only at the Regional level, or the national level, this award recognized him at the International Level !! He is now an Honorary Member of Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society of the Two Year College. Congratulations John!!! |