The New England Region continues on its mission to become one of the most active regions of Phi Theta Kappa with some exciting activities and initiatives planned for spring 2007.

The most important spring activity will be the 2007 New England Regional Convention, taking place March 9-11 in Newport, Rhode Island. Attendees will be able to hear from noted speakers, participate in interactive workshops, and visit with admissions counselors at New England’s largest college transfer fair. Elections will also be held for the 2007-2008 New England Regional Officers. Contact any of the advisors if you are interested in attending the conference, or regional president Marie Cifelli at mariecifelli@yahoo.com if you think a regional position might be the job for you.

A highlight of the convention will be the annual awards ceremony, where Phi Theta Kappa chapters, officers, advisors, and members are recognized for their outstanding contributions throughout the year. Members should be especially interested in the creative arts awards, which are presented to individual members for written, performing, and fine arts submissions. For information on the regional awards, visit neptk.org.

Although they’re not going to help your résumé as much as an award, the free saplings offered to members as part of the region’s Operation Green efforts will certainly make you feel good. The Regional team is taking orders for the spring. If you are interested in obtaining a sapling to plant in your own yard, contact Michelle Nickerson at iampooh12@yahoo.com.

Finally, we’d like to remind you about the upcoming International Convention in Nashville, Tennessee coming up in April. All members are encouraged to attend if they are able, and limited financial assistance may be available through Alpha Upsilon Alpha. If you are interested in attending, please contact any of the advisors. Note that if you are considering running for international office, you will be required to attend. Contact New England Regional Alumni Association president Diane Hutchins at dhutchins57@yahoo.com if you’d like information on running for the highest Phi Theta Kappa offices available.

-- J. Ashley Odell, Central Vice President - New England Region