Photo courtesy Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and Phi Kappa Phi
by Ray Newton
Exceptional student scholars and top professors at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) were recognized during formal spring ceremonies sponsored by the National Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi (PKP) April 15.
Four senior and 12 juniors were inducted into the nation’s oldest and most selective all-discipline academic honor society.
Seniors were: Elizabeth Dieringer, Thomas R. Fike, Nathan Fuentes and Carol D. Martin. Juniors were Prince Gersom Anselmo, Blake M. Blomquist, Kaylee T. Chavez, Elizabeth Chwiakowski, Michael D. Finigian, William O. Moody, Rowdy D. Morman, Jacob B. Peterson, Edwyn R. Schindler, Abigail M. Slease, Michael T. Szoke and Brennah A. Van Cleave.
Also inducted were five faculty. They were: Derek S. Fisher, Megan E. Hanna, Zafer Hatahet, Jennah C. Perry and Joel Schipper.
Schipper, Ph.D., was singled out as the 2021-22 Top Faculty Scholar. He teaches in the electrical engineering curriculum.
Named as the 2022 Top Student Scholar was Brenn Barkis, who earned a degree in forensic psychology and global security and intelligence.
A Meritorious Service Award was given to Prescott resident Ray Newton, who serves on the ERAU Board of Visitors. A former national officer for PKP, Newton and his wife Patricia were among founding members of ERAU chapter 337 when it was established in the fall of 2016.
Presiding at the initiation ceremony were ERAU faculty members Curtis James, president; Jon Haass, vice president; Jules Yimga, treasurer; Hong Zhan, secretary; Anne Boettcher, Fellowships & Scholarships; and Steven Bobinsky, public relations officer. They were aided by Brenn Barkis and Jessica Rader, student vice presidents.
Also speaking was Chancellor Anette Karlsson, who praised the students for their academic excellence and exceptional grades.
