Kilgore College student and Phi Theta Kappa officer Ruddy Morales was awarded the prestigious Dr. Mary Hood Star Scholarship during the 2025 Phi Theta Kappa Texas Honors Institute, held July 13 at Texas Lutheran University.
Morales, a computer information systems major, was recognized for his leadership, academic excellence and service to both campus and community. The Dr. Mary Hood Texas Region Scholarship is presented annually to outstanding Phi Theta Kappa members attending college in Texas and honors students who exemplify the society’s hallmarks of scholarship, leadership, service and fellowship.
“Ruddy is an exemplary student leader whose dedication to both academics and service inspires everyone around him,” said Lori Solley, PTK advisor at KC. “We are proud to see his achievements recognized on a state level.”
At KC, Morales has played an instrumental role in Phi Theta Kappa initiatives, contributing to chapter projects, member engagement and campus programming. His passion for technology and problem-solving has also positioned him as a role model for students pursuing careers in computer and information sciences.
The scholarship honors the legacy of Dr. Mary Hood, former Texas regional coordinator of Phi Theta Kappa, whose leadership and advocacy expanded opportunities for community college students across the state.
For more information about Phi Theta Kappa at KC, contact Ivory or Solley at ptk@kilgore.edu.
About Phi Theta Kappa:
Phi Theta Kappa is the international honor society recognizing the academic achievement of students at associate degree-granting colleges. The society helps students grow as scholars and leaders through opportunities in scholarship, leadership, service and fellowship. PTK advisors at KC are Curtis Ivory and Lori Solley. For more information on PTK at KC, visit www.kilgore.edu/ptk.