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News from New Orleans by Chapter Secretary Kathleen Minadeo Johnson The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi celebrated its 100th anniversary this summer in New Orleans. For three days, the past and present leaders were acknowledged for their efforts to recognize and promote excellence in higher education in all academic disciplines. In preparation for the celebration, PKP members were invited to submit original musical compositions for a centennial march, as well as a design for the centennial logo. Both John Bliss, the composer, and Becky Magee, the designer, were presented with a special award during the final dinner. In addition, Mr. Bliss led the Nicholls State University Band as it played his Centennial March during the opening academic processional. Each chapter will receive a copy of the march for use during PKP celebrations. The depth of the talent of PKP members was evident throughout the variety of presentations from present and current fellowship recipients. Hugh Herr, 1991-92 fellow, was one of the most inspirational. In a mountaineering accident as a high school junior, Mr. Herr lost both his lower legs due to severe frostbite. Because of his experience, he became an inventor of orthotic and prosthetic appliances. The audience viewed a portion of a NOVA program that featured him and his inventions. Besides the talks that continually reiterated the theme of excellence, there was an award ceremony honoring chapter activities in a variety of categories, e.g., Best Activity for National PKP Week. The conclusion of the celebration featured a dramatization of the history of Phi Kappa Phi. Carnegie Institute of Technology (before we became Carnegie Mellon) was mentioned because Carnegie Tech's Lawrence Guild was the national Secretary-Treasurer from 1935 to 1971. In its first 100 years, Phi Kappa Phi has established more than 275 chapters, has honored more than 675,000 scholars and has funded more than 2,500 graduate and professional studies because of its dedication to superior scholarship. The next 100 years should be even better. |