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ORANGE — ​Lamar State College Orange President Dr. Thomas Johnson was recently honored with the Shirley B. Gordon Award of Distinction by the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society during the PTK Catalyst 2025 convention in Kansas City Missouri.

This award recognizes college presidents who have demonstrated outstanding support for student success initiatives, leading to enhanced pathways for completion, transfer, and employment. Recipients are nominated by students and are selected based on their active interest in supporting high-achieving students and fostering student leadership on campus, according to a news release from LSCO.​

“Dr. Johnson’s unwavering commitment to our students’ success has transformed LSCO into a nurturing environment where academic excellence and leadership thrive,” said Dr. Wendy Elmore, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs. “This recognition by Phi Theta Kappa is a testament to his dedication and the positive impact he has made on our campus community.”​

The Shirley B. Gordon Award of Distinction is PTK’s most prestigious honor for community college presidents and is named after Dr. Shirley B. Gordon, the longest-serving Chair of PTK’s Board of Directors and a founder and long-time president of Highline Community College in Washington. To be eligible, college presidents and CEOs must have served in their role for at least five years and can receive the award only once in their career. Dr. Johnson was among 14 college administrators nationwide to receive this honor in 2025.​

Under Dr. Johnson’s leadership, LSCO has implemented various initiatives aimed at enhancing student success, including programs focused on academic support, leadership development, and career readiness. His dedication to creating a supportive and enriching educational environment has garnered recognition both within and beyond the LSCO community.​

“Dr. Johnson has been the unwavering champion, the steadfast encourager, and the unconditional supporter of Phi Theta Kappa” said Jessica Williams, PTK Advisor & Faculty Senate President. “We are forever grateful for the dedication, guidance, and belief he has shown in us and our journey with these amazing students.”

Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, founded in 1918, is the premier honor society recognizing the academic achievement of students at associate degree-granting colleges and helping them to grow as scholars and leaders. The PTK Catalyst annual convention serves as a platform to celebrate student and institutional accomplishments and to provide professional development opportunities for members and advisors.