President Fred Hawkins Named Phi Theta Kappa Paragon President

Feb. 10, 2026 – President Fred Hawkins has been named a Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Paragon President Honoree. President Hawkins will be recognized during PTK Catalyst, Phi Theta Kappa’s annual international convention.

 

The Phi Theta Kappa Paragon President recognition celebrates college leaders who demonstrate a strong and immediate connection to student success by prioritizing the recognition of high achievement and championing meaningful opportunities for student engagement. These presidents understand that when students are connected to their campus through leadership, scholarship, and service, they are more likely to persist, complete their credentials, and achieve successful transfer and career outcomes. Honorees are nominated by Phi Theta Kappa student leaders.

 

At South Florida State College, President Hawkins has demonstrated visible and consistent support for Phi Theta Kappa by encouraging students to extend leadership beyond the classroom and into their communities. By recognizing PTK scholars at college events, Board of Trustees meetings, and commencement ceremonies, he has helped elevate academic achievement as a defining part of the College’s culture. His leadership reinforces the value of scholarship, service, and civic engagement, encouraging students to see themselves as future leaders both on campus and beyond.

 

Students and advisors note that President Hawkins fosters an environment where institutional leadership remains accessible and engaged. His emphasis on collaboration across faculty, advisors, and administrators ensures that Phi Theta Kappa initiatives align with the College’s broader mission of academic excellence, community engagement, and lifelong learning.

 

“President Hawkins has created a culture where students feel seen, heard, and celebrated,” said Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner, president and CEO of Phi Theta Kappa. “By elevating academic achievement and encouraging students to lead both on campus and in their communities, he is helping shape an environment where engagement and success go hand in hand.”

 

The Phi Theta Kappa Paragon Award for New Presidents recognizes college presidents who have served in their role for less than three years and who have quickly established a culture that values academic excellence, student engagement, and leadership development. Paragon honorees prioritize the recognition of high achievement and help create environments where students are encouraged to persist, complete their credentials, and pursue meaningful transfer and career opportunities — reinforcing a culture where academic excellence is not only celebrated but expected.