Riverland Community College is proud to announce that student Katherine Eliason has been named the 2024 Phi Theta Kappa International Poet Laureate for her poem, A Chance to Breathe.

This prestigious recognition was awarded to Katherine after her poem was selected from over 4,500 entries in Phi Theta Kappa’s national competition for Nota Bene, the organization’s renowned honors anthology. In addition to the honor, Katherine will receive a $1,000 scholarship and have her work published in the 30th edition of Nota Bene, which will be released later this fall.

Dr. Susan Edwards, Senior Director of Honors Programs at Phi Theta Kappa, expressed her enthusiasm in a congratulatory message to Katherine: “I greatly enjoyed reading your poem and am honored to share this news with you. We are excited to showcase your talented work to the Phi Theta Kappa community.”

Katherine’s accomplishment highlights her talent and dedication, as well as the supportive academic environment fostered by Riverland Community College. As Poet Laureate, Katherine continues to set an inspiring example for students and the broader community.

“This poem powerfully humanizes the final thoughts of those lost in a tragedy, said Susan V Hansen, Phi Theta Kappa advisor. “We need voices like Katherine’s. She has been an asset to our Zeta Eta Chapter, and we look forward to her future!"

Phi Theta Kappa is the world’s largest and most prestigious honor society for two-year college students, offering recognition and scholarship opportunities for academic excellence and leadership.