Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College’s Phi Theta Kappa Gamma Nu Chapter advisor, Elizabeth Dingman, has been honored with PTK’s 2025 Paragon Award for New Advisors. This prestigious award recognizes outstanding new advisors who foster student growth and academic excellence and is based on their PTK chapter’s student recommendations.

Dingman, who has served as an adjunct instructor at MGCCC since 2015, is finishing her first full year as a full-time member of the college’s faculty at the Perkinston Campus.. Specializing in Biology and Anatomy & Physiology (A&P), she has quickly distinguished herself as a dedicated educator and an inspiring PTK advisor and Honors College director. Her work with the Gamma Nu Chapter of PTK has been marked by a collaborative approach—providing students with vital resources, mentorship, and leadership opportunities that have contributed significantly to their success.

In recognition of her exceptional contributions, Dingman received the regional Paragon Award and will soon be presented with the national Paragon Award at PTK Catalyst 2025. The national ceremony is scheduled for April 3-5 at the Kansas City Convention Center in Kansas City, Missouri, with advisor award recipients being honored on Friday, April 4, during the Advisor Breakfast and again on stage during General Session 2 before hundreds of PTK members and advisors from around the world.

“I am honored to be recognized with the Paragon Award,” said Dingman. “This achievement is truly a team effort and would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our college administration and the guidance of my fellow advisors. Navigating my first year as a full-time instructor and PTK advisor has been challenging yet incredibly rewarding. I am continually inspired by our students’ passion for academic excellence and community service. This award is a testament to our collaborative spirit, and I am excited to continue empowering our students as they work to shape their futures.”

Dingman’s accomplishment underscores MGCCC’s commitment to providing a supportive and innovative educational environment where faculty and students alike thrive. Her recognition as a new advisor highlights the vital role that dedicated mentorship plays in advancing both academic success and personal growth.