Des Plaines, Ill. (March 1, 2022) – The international Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society has selected Karl Brooks, Ed.D., Oakton’s vice president for Student Affairs, to receive a Distinguished College Administrator Award.
Dr. Brooks will be one of 28 college administrators, nationwide, to be recognized at the Society’s annual convention April 7-9 in Denver, Colo. Selected from among thousands of eligible college administrators, they will be honored for working in support of student success, and directly with student leaders to solve problems on campus and in their communities.
An award letter from PTK President & CEO Lynn Tincher to Dr. Brooks specifies his unique accomplishments:
“This year, you worked to mentor and develop student leaders in completely unfamiliar circumstances. Racial and political unrest, and a global pandemic made 2021 one of the most challenging years in recent history — one that you worked exceptionally hard to overcome. Your nomination is evidence of the gratitude your PTK students feel for supporting them and students like them — even during the most difficult times.”
“I am honored and humbled to be recognized with this prestigious award,” Dr. Brooks said. “Such recognition would not be possible without the vision, integrity and support of Oakton’s dedicated staff, faculty and student leadership.”
As vice president for Student Affairs, Dr. Brooks is responsible for overseeing the activities of several offices that directly serve Oakton students including: Athletics, Career Services; Counseling and Health Services; Enrollment Services; Access, Equity, and Diversity; Recruitment and Outreach; Registrar Services; Student Development; Student Life; and Student Success. Dr. Brooks also serves as a member of Oakton’s President’s Council, comprised of a group of senior College administrators.
Prior to coming to Oakton, Dr. Brooks served as the dean for student success at Joliet Junior College, and as a student leadership institute director at DePaul University. Dr. Brooks received a doctorate degree in education from DePaul University; a master’s degree in education from Drake University; and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from North Central College.
Phi Theta Kappa is the international Honor Society for two-year colleges. Active on more than 1,250 campuses around the world, it offers exclusive programs and benefits for members that contribute to a dynamic college experience. At Oakton, PTK members are campus leaders who can take advantage of many resources that provide academic enrichment, personal development, and opportunities for service.