In the news release, Phi Theta Kappa Exposé: New Book “Saving PTK” Exposes Toxic Systemic Issues Within Phi Theta Kappa, issued Jan. 29, 2025 by Toni Marek over PR Newswire, we are advised by a representative for the company that there have been multiple updates throughout the release. The complete, corrected release follows:
Phi Theta Kappa Report: Upcoming Free Book “Saving PTK” Examines Governance and Transparency Concerns
Saving PTK: The Whistleblower's Fight for Truth and Change, by Toni Marek, is a public-interest publication that explores concerns raised about Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), the nation's largest honor society for community college students. Based on publicly available data and firsthand accounts, the book examines governance, recruitment messaging, and financial decision-making within the organization.
The book will be available for free on Amazon.com starting April 3, 2025, ensuring accessibility for students, parents, educators, and policymakers.
Examining Membership and Scholarship Messaging
PTK promotes recognition for “Top 10%” students and access to $246 million in scholarships. However, publicly available data indicates that eligibility criteria and scholarship accessibility encompass a wider range of students than commonly understood.
— At some colleges, 30% to 60% of students qualify for PTK membership, exceeding the widely advertised “Top 10%” threshold.
— Some advertised exclusive scholarships are also available to non-members.
— PTK states that “the average member receives $2,500 per year in scholarships,” though financial reports do not specify how this figure is calculated across all members.
“PTK has played a significant role in students' lives, but transparency benefits everyone,” said Marek.
Financial Oversight and Leadership
The book examines PTK's financial priorities based on publicly available reports:
— PTK's net income declined by $5.6 million between 2021 and 2023, shifting from a $4.7 million surplus to a $900,000 deficit.
— During this period, CEO Lynn Tincher-Ladner's salary increased by 49%, reaching $386,564 in 2023.
— Public records show thatTincher-Ladner's spouse holds a role within PTK Foundation and is listed as receiving compensation from PTK in organizational filings.
Perspectives from Former Employees
The book also explores accounts from individuals familiar with PTK's internal culture:
— A former PTK executive shares insights on leadership communication.
— A former membership services team member shares experiences discussing PTK's eligibility criteria.
— A former marketing professional shares observations about how recruitment messaging evolved.
Encouraging Transparency
As part of the effort to encourage transparency, Marek has launched a Change.org petition addressing PTK's governance, recruitment, and financial oversight. To read the petition, please visit: Change.org/SavePhiThetaKappa
“This book and petition aim to bring attention to concerns that students and employees have raised,” said Marek.
Availability
Saving PTK will be available for free download on Amazon.com starting April 3, 2025.
Disclaimer
This book is a public-interest publication reflecting the good faith opinions of the author and contributors. It does not allege wrongdoing and is intended to promote transparency and open discussion about nonprofit governance and recruitment practices in the honor society space. All information is based on publicly available data and firsthand accounts. This book is not endorsed by Phi Theta Kappa.
Media Contact: Toni Marek Founder www.andthenshespokeup.com 389604@email4pr.com (361) 239-2694
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SOURCE Toni Marek
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