OBU Recognized Among 40 Colleges & Universities for Dynamic Transfer Pathways

OBU was recognized by Phi Theta Kappa as one of 40 members of the inaugural Excellence in Community College Transfer Honor Roll for creating dynamic pathways to support community college transfers.

Phi Theta Kappa is the oldest, largest and most prestigious honor society recognizing students pursuing two-year degrees. Phi Theta Kappa is made up of more than 3 million members and nearly 1,300 chapters in nine nations.

Applications were judged based on engagement, collaboration, impact and achievements related to the transfer of community college students as well as partnerships, support, admissions outreach, scholarships/financial aid, student engagement opportunities and institutional priorities.

These 40 colleges and universities, which offer exemplary programs, initiatives, and benefits for community college transfers, were recognized at Phi Theta Kappa’s 2016 annual convention in National Harbor, Maryland, April 7-9. They will be acknowledged with the “Transfer Honor Roll” designation on Phi Theta Kappa’s online transfer support platform, CollegeFish.org. Phi Theta Kappa also will release a study regarding transfer success based on the information provided in the honor roll applications.

Director of Scholarship Operations Christin Grissom said the new recognition program reflects the growing importance of transfer students in helping the U.S. achieve its college completion goals and will promote further study and sharing of best practices.

“With this designation, we hope to connect community college students with institutions who value their unique transfer experience and prioritize their success,” Grissom said.

According to Phi Theta Kappa’s President and CEO Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner, 92 percent of Phi Theta Kappa members complete an associate degree or transfer.

“Phi Theta Kappa members have a proven track record of success. Our members transfer at a much higher rate (72 percent) than the traditional community college student (29 percent),” Tincher-Ladner said. “In order to ensure their continued success, the Transfer Honor Roll Program identifies colleges and universities that understand the unique needs of community college transfer students and applauds the dynamic pathways these colleges have created to continue fostering student success at the four-year college.”

“Transfer students are vital to the OBU community and we are honored to be part of this program,” said Will Brantley, OBU director of admissions. “This recognition validates our commitment and dedication to these students. Our goal is to help transfer students pursue Christ-centered academic excellence that will prepare them to live a life worthy of the high calling of God in Christ. We are so thankful that Phi Theta Kappa has chosen to recognize our work with transfer students by naming us to the Transfer Honor Roll for 2016.”