Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society (PTK) has named Dr. Rolando Garcia, President of North Hennepin Community College as a recipient of the Shirley B. Gordon Award of Distinction, the Society’s highest honor for community college presidents. Dr. Garcia will be recognized during PTK Catalyst, Phi Theta Kappa’s annual international convention taking place this year on March 27, in Baltimore, Maryland.
The Shirley B. Gordon Award of Distinction honors college presidents who have demonstrated sustained, exceptional commitment to student success through academic excellence, leadership development, and access to opportunity. Nominees must have served in their role for at least five years and are selected based on nominations submitted by Phi Theta Kappa students on their campus.
Since becoming president of North Hennepin Community College in 2020, Dr. Garcia has been recognized for a leadership style defined by accessibility, mentorship, and a deep commitment to aligning opportunity with purpose. Students describe a president who is present and engaged—one who takes time to listen, ask questions, and invite students into meaningful conversations about their goals and the future of their college.
Throughout his presidency, Dr. Garcia has emphasized that student success extends beyond completion to include confidence, leadership, and a sense of responsibility to the community. His leadership reflects a belief that colleges should help students understand how their academic work connects to real-world impact. Under his direction, the college has fostered a culture where students are encouraged to lead, serve, and see themselves as contributors whose voices matter.
Dr. Garcia is known for making space for students to grow into leadership roles through guidance, dialogue, and example. He consistently reinforces the importance of recognition and visibility, helping students understand that their achievements deserve to be celebrated and shared. This approach has strengthened a campus culture where excellence is expected, supported, and affirmed.
At the core of Dr. Garcia’s leadership is a commitment to inclusion and belonging. He leads with openness and intention, ensuring that students from all backgrounds feel welcomed and supported as they pursue ambitious goals. His willingness to engage directly with students—whether through mentorship, classroom engagement, or campus conversations—has helped build trust and confidence across the college community.
“Dr. Garcia leads with purpose, generosity, and a clear belief in students,” said Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner, President and CEO of Phi Theta Kappa. “He understands that leadership is about investing time and attention in people. This recognition reflects the gratitude of students who have experienced his commitment as both personal and transformative.” The Shirley B. Gordon Award of Distinction is named in honor of the late Dr. Shirley B. Gordon, Phi Theta Kappa’s longest-serving Board Chair and a lifelong advocate for community college students.
About Phi Theta Kappa
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.
For questions, please contact Makayla Steede at press@ptk.org.