Polk State PTK officer named to Coca-Cola Academic Team

As the new Phi Theta Kappa International Vice President for Division II, Polk State College student Catherine Derival has a lot on her plate. The concern of paying for college, however, has been largely alleviated, thanks to receiving a prestigious scholarship.

Derival has been named to the Coca-Cola Academic Team and will receive a $1,300 scholarship and a commemorative medallion. The Coca-Cola Academic Team recognizes Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) students based on achievement, leadership and engagement in college and community service. To qualify, students must be nominated by an administrator.

“I was incredibly surprised,” Derival exclaimed. “This will allow me to stay at Polk for the foreseeable future. I love my Polk family. It greatly alleviates the financial burden that comes with being a college student.”

In her first year as a member of Xi Pi, Polk State’s PTK Winter Haven chapter, Derival was recognized internationally as a Distinguished Officer in March at Catalyst in Baltimore, PTK’s annual national conference. Derival becomes the first student from Polk County to hold that distinction. She was previously recognized as a Distinguished Officer and won first place in a speech competition during the regional conference held in Melbourne in February.

“PTK gives you such a sense of fulfillment and purpose,” Derival explained. “You are molded into a student leader. You learn so much more about yourself, your community and how to serve others. I have been lifted up academically and had opportunities to network with people in so many different industries.”

Derival first enrolled at Polk State in 2019 as a dual enrollment student in high school. She earned her Associate in Arts in 2022 and is currently pursuing an Associate in Science in Polk State’s Computer Systems and Business Analysis.

“She uses her experience to assist anyone with scholarships and has developed workshops that she has given to hundreds in Phi Theta Kappa’s Florida Region,” said Anthony Cornett, Polk State Professor of Biology and Co-Advisor for Xi Pi. “Cat is incredibly intelligent, hardworking, empathetic, hilarious and passionate about helping others. She has been one of the best members I have ever had. Soon, regions across the U.S. will get to know this incredibly talented officer.”

Derival wants to use her degree to work within the EdTech industry, designing digital learning tools and online curriculums, preferably for nonprofit organizations that strive to help eliminate financial barriers for college students.

“My entire educational journey has been aided by programs that alleviate financial hardships,” Derival reflected. “The Polk State (College) Foundation has been absolutely phenomenal. They are changemakers and I owe a lot to Polk State’s Foundation.”

In addition to PTK, Derival has been involved with Polk State’s Student Government Association, Book Club, Art Club and STEM Club. She also has interest in joining Future Business Leaders of America as it makes a rebirth at the College.

“Polk State offers sense of community and collaboration that I haven’t felt anywhere else,” Derival said. “Everyone, from the Foundation to the advisors, has been so accommodating. I’ve had wonderful professors who are devoted to students and their success. Polk State is the best institution for me. Something I’ve learned through the relationships I’ve built and achievements I’ve earned, is that as Polk State Eagles, we don’t just fly; we reach for the stars.”