April 9, 2024 (Middletown, CT) — CT State Middlesex Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society co-advisor Landi Hou is a national recipient of PTK’s 2024 Distinguished Advisor Award. Hou was recognized at the PTK Catalyst 2024 convention at the Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center in Orlando on April 5.
“This recognition means the world to me and serves as a validation of the passion and dedication I bring to my role as an advisor,” said Hou. “It’s a testament to the incredible students I’ve had the privilege to work with and the supportive community that surrounds me.”
The award is based on nominations by the Middlesex PTK chapter, Beta Gamma Xi, and CT State Middlesex administration.
A Middlesex employee since 2001 and a PTK co-advisor since 2015, Hou is a computer support specialist and an adjunct professor.
“I chose to become a PTK advisor because of the opportunity to positively impact students’ lives, contribute to their education and further their professional development.” Hou stated. “I find fulfillment in witnessing the personal and academic growth of our students. Helping them develop leadership skills, attain academic excellence and actively participate in community service is incredibly rewarding.”
In Spring 2016, the chapter advisor team, which included Hou, dedicated considerable effort mentoring chapter officers and organizing chapter projects and events. This led to the chapter achieving notable success by earning more regional awards. That year, for the first time, the Middlesex chapter received five-star chapter status, a distinction the chapter has proudly maintained, according to Hou.
“Although this is an individual award, it’s the result of the collaboration of all the officers and current and past advisors, including Eva Jones, Anton Pettiford, Lin Lin, Ph.D., and Donna Bontatibus, Ph.D. Under the leadership of chapter president Katherine Tocto Quituisaca, the chapter has won multiple regional and national awards again this year. As a co-advisor, I am proud of them and am very happy to work with these vibrant students,” Hou added.
Hou expressed her thanks to the chapter officers and members, to Middlesex CEO Kim Hogan for the nominations, and to Dean Bontatibus for her strong support.
“I also want to thank co-advisor, Dr. Lin. It was under her influence that I joined the advisor team, and she provided invaluable guidance throughout this period,” said Hou.
Hou said another motivation to become a PTK advisor is a deep emotional connection to the group of community college students. Having graduated from Nashville Technical College with an A.S. degree in 1999 and having worked for many years at Middlesex, she has a profound sentiment toward both the school and community college students. She said she hopes for the success of the students.
Hou earned a Master of Science in Computer Science from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and a bachelor’s degree in engineering from the University of Science and Technology in Beijing.
