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University of North Georgia's (´óÏó´«Ã½) chapter of the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi recently was recognized as a Circle of Excellence Silver Chapter, an award given to chapters that exceed expectations in chapter operations and demonstrate sustainability and vitality.

"The vibrancy of the ´óÏó´«Ã½ Phi Kappa Phi chapter alone struck a chord at the national level," said Brenda Bishop, president of ´óÏó´«Ã½'s chapter, which was chartered in 1969.

Bishop credits the award to the society's membership, chapter officers, faculty, and staff and expressed appreciation for their hard work.

"Recognition as a Circle of Excellence Silver Chapter illuminates the dedication of our chapter officers, including our student officers, the growth of our membership, and the energy of our nominee to the PKP Fellowship in 2018," Bishop said. "Receiving this national award underscores the fact that ´óÏó´«Ã½ students are reaching the pinnacle of academic excellence."

To be invited to join Phi Kappa Phi, juniors must be in the top 7.5 percent of their class, while seniors and graduate students must be in the top 10 percent.

This is the first year the Circle of Excellence distinction, which was introduced in 2018, has been awarded. Of the more than 300 Phi Kappa Phi select campuses in the United States and the Philippines, 75 chapters have been recognized, 29 of them being distinguished as Silver Circle chapters.