The De Anza chapter of the international honor’s society Phi Theta Kappa inducted its new members last Thursday, Nov. 30.

The ceremony included a speech by Dr. Judy Miner, De Anza Vice President of Instruction and a candlelight section with President Lani Bondshu explaining the honor society’s hallmarks scholarship, leadership, service and fellowship.

Many of the 105 new members said they enjoyed the special ritual of being accepted into Phi Theta Kappa. Sonja Rose, who prefers to be called “Suni,” brought her 10 month old daughter Elesa along to the ceremony.

Rose said what she liked most about the ceremony was Miner’s speech that compared the candles being lit at the ceremony to the candles of life and knowledge. Like Rose, many students decided to join Phi Theta Kappa because they want to seize the education and leadership opportunities being offered.

While some mention scholarship and academic excellence as their main objectives, others tend to favor the recognition factor of this internationally acclaimed society. “It looks good on a resume”, said new members Lorilin Miller and John Newell.

Phi Theta Kappa President Lani Bondshu said fewer new members showed up for the ceremony this quarter than before. Bondshu attributes this decrease in attendants to the fact that the ceremony used to be held on a Sunday.

Regardless of this decrease, Bondshu said she was “thrilled about” the new members and the wonderful diversity among Phi Theta Kappans. We even have a 12-year-old inductee.”

Colin Moore and Jagmit Kaur, two Phi Theta Kappa officers, were recognized and given an award for their contributions to the community and their devotion to volunteer work.

-Staff writer Jasmin Bodmer participated in the induction ceremony.