Bridgette Cram
Vice President for Students

Q&A

Name: Bridgette Cram

Volunteer Position: Vice President for Students

Years of Service: Served on 2010-2012 Council of Students, national Board of Directors since 2012, and served my local chapter prior 

Degree(s)/Discipline: B.A. International Affairs and Spanish and M.S. Higher Education from Florida State University; currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Public Affairs from Florida International University

How did you become involved as a Phi Kappa Phi volunteer?
I first became involved as a Phi Kappa Phi volunteer through my local chapter at Florida State University. I was encouraged to become a student vice president by my mentor and served in this position at both the undergraduate and graduate level.  

What has Phi Kappa Phi done that has made you proud?
I am very proud of Phi Kappa Phi's dedication to literacy. The literacy grants are an excellent example of "letting the love of learning rule humanity," as it provides funding to great programs that enhance literacy for students of all ages. In addition, the Council of Students has just started a book drive competition, which is also a point of pride for me. 

What does Phi Kappa Phi mean to you? 
To me, Phi Kappa Phi means excellence. However, not only excellence in terms of academics, but also in serving both your community and enhancing your own institutions or workplaces. I think that being a member of Phi Kappa Phi should mean that you strive to foster a love of learning wherever you go, thus making a contribution in your own unique way.

What do you enjoy most about being a board/committee member? 
I enjoy the opportunity to engage with my fellow colleagues in making every effort to make sure that Phi Kappa Phi is the best organization it can be. The board meetings provide an excellent opportunity to reflect on what Phi Kappa Phi means and what we envision it to mean in 5, 10, or 20 years. 

What advice would you give to a new board member? 
My best piece of advice would be to have an open mind. Although that seems obvious, I think that it is important to understand the many different stakeholders our organization serves. It is critical to really be able to step back and see how decisions can affect those that are not only in academia, but members at large as well.