April 20, 2010
For immediate use

(DURHAM, N.C.) – The Gamma Beta Phi Honor Society at Durham Technical Community College inducted 15 new members recently in a ceremony held in the Phail Wynn, Jr. Student Services Center. The national organization recognizes scholarship, service, and character at colleges and universities. Dr. Bill Ingram, president of Durham Tech, addressed the gathering, praising the students for their academic excellence, their participation in college extracurricular activities, and their community service. Members of the Durham Tech chapter of Gamma Beta Phi have participated in blood drives; tutored local children; and worked with March of Dimes, the Boys and Girls Club, and many other agencies.

During the induction ceremony, Carrie Smith, president of Durham Tech’s chapter of Gamma Beta Phi, explained that the organization began in 1962 as an outgrowth of high school Beta Clubs. There are now more than 10,000 members throughout the nation. Greg Gassaway and Joy Johnson serve as advisors of the Durham Tech chapter. New inductees include P. Sean Boyles, R. Blair Childs III, Jessica Cooke, Caitlin Crabtree, Robert Dejounett, Delores Denny, Nickolai Detert, Michelle Andrea Diaz, Elizabeth Dvorsky, Jed Gorman, Alison Latimer, Charles Mayes, Mary Nelson, Parawee Srisornak, and Yolanda Vines.

Photo: From left: Yolanda Vines, Charles Mayes, Parawee Srisorsnak, Michelle Diaz, Nikolai Detert, Caitlin Crabtree, and Jessica Cooke.