Dr. Kevin Rose, President of Northeast Texas Community College, has been named a Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Paragon President Honoree. Dr. Rose 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 Northeast Texas Community College, Dr. Rose has demonstrated visible and engaged leadership by elevating Phi Theta Kappa’s role within campus governance and community partnerships. He introduced a new practice at Board of Trustees meetings that highlights student organizations and faculty achievements, inviting Phi Theta Kappa to lead the first presentation and ensuring trustees understood the impact of student scholarship and leadership.
“Dr. Rose has long been a champion of the Alpha Mu Chi chapter at NTCC, even before stepping into his role as president,” said Dr. Melissa Fulgham, advisor for NTCC’s Phi Theta Kappa chapter. “He not only provides steadfast leadership and institutional support for our organization, but he is also genuinely invested in our students. He takes time to attend student events, celebrate their achievements, and make himself personally available to them. This honor is well deserved."
Students and advisors note that Dr. Rose maintains an active presence across campus, regularly attending induction ceremonies, district meetings, and student activities while promoting Phi Theta Kappa achievements through social media and college communications. His approachable leadership style, from greeting students across campus to supporting initiatives such as peer mentoring and “sticky spaces,” reflects a commitment to creating an environment where students feel connected, supported, and inspired to lead.
“Dr. Rose leads with energy, accessibility, and a genuine commitment to student success,” said Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner, President and CEO of Phi Theta Kappa. “By encouraging innovation, celebrating achievement, and inviting students into conversations that shape their college experience, he is helping build a culture where leadership and academic excellence thrive.”
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.
Phi Theta Kappa is the first honor society recognizing the academic achievement of students at associate degree-granting colleges and helping them grow as scholars and leaders. The Society serves more than 4.4 million members and nearly 1,250 chapters worldwide. Learn more at ptk.org.
