Volunteer Spotlight – October 2013
Tuesday, October 1, 2013
Kathy E. K. Charleston
Longwood University
Q&A
Name: Kathy E. K. Charleston
Chapter Position: Chapter President
Years of Service to the Chapter: 9
University Position: Assistant Dean of the College of Graduate & Professional Studies
Degree(s)/Discipline: M.S., Education - Secondary Social Studies, Longwood University
How did you become involved as a chapter officer?
Dr. Nancy Blattner, President of Caldwell College in New Jersey, was Regent of Phi Kappa Phi at the time of my initiation, spring 2004. She shared many highlights of her time with Phi Kappa Phi and encouraged me to attend the Phi Kappa Phi Convention that August in Albuquerque, New Mexico, as Longwood's delegate. I've been hooked ever since!
What has your chapter done that has made you proud?
Each year at our initiation ceremony, Longwood recognizes the top 1% of the freshman class and top 2% of the sophomore class. These students are invited to the ceremony and presented with a Phi Kappa Phi certificate of recognition. The impact means they know who we are long before they are juniors or seniors giving them a goal for which to strive.
What does Phi Kappa Phi mean to you?
Recognizing superior academic achievement is a pinnacle in all of higher education and to personally be a part of that recognition is an honor I am humbled to achieve. "University" in the original Latin means "a place that works together" and Phi Kappa Phi exemplifies that on every level. The richness brought to my life from this 'university of honor' is immeasurable on the chapter and national level.
What do you enjoy most about being a chapter officer?
Being able to serve students in such a positive way is gratifying and exciting. Too often as an administrator, I am the enforcer of the rules. However, the rules enforced for Phi Kappa Phi are pleasurable ones that generate pride and joy in the recipients.
What advice would you give to a new chapter officer?
Take advantage of every opportunity to interact and participate in all the available Phi Kappa Phi activities. The connections you will make all across the country will bless you on every level.
What are your hobbies?
I'm a history aficionado - my husband and I visit historic sites and museums, live in a 250+ year old house, enjoy reenactments, and are thankful we live in Virginia where history lives on almost every corner.
Where are you from?
I was born and raised in Newport News, Virginia, and have lived in Virginia my entire life. My husband and I moved to Cumberland County just outside of Farmville, Virginia, over thirty years ago.