March 6, 2025 – Just eight months into his first year as Paris Junior College’s ninth president, Dr. Stephen M. Benson is already gaining state and national notice. He will receive two awards from Phi Theta Kappa, the national two-year college honor society. He was nominated for both awards by the PTK Beta Zeta Chapter, which has been active at PJC since 1932.
“I am truly honored to be nominated for these awards by the outstanding students of Phi Theta Kappa,” said Benson. “This organization represents the best of academic excellence, leadership, and service, and I am continually inspired by their dedication. As president of Paris Junior College, my greatest privilege is championing student success, and I share this recognition with the incredible faculty, staff, and students who make our institution thrive.”
At the Texas annual meeting of Phi Theta Kappa, Dr. Benson will be inducted into the Texas Hall of Honor for New Presidents for the Texas Region of Phi Theta Kappa. Benson will receive the honor at the Texas Region’s 2025 Awards Banquet held in Houston on March 8.
On April 3, Benson will travel to Kansas City, Missouri for PTK Catalyst, the honor society’s annual international meeting. There he will receive the PTK Paragon Award for New Presidents. This award recognizes new college presidents for their outstanding support of student success and for providing high-quality learning environments both inside and outside the classroom.
“I applaud you for taking an active and direct interest in the leadership development of your Phi Theta Kappa students — they are so grateful, and it’s not just them,” said Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner, President & CEO of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. “Your nomination was strong evidence that you are a student success champion for all students. They know you are working hard to provide them more opportunities and stronger pathways to completion, transfer, and employment. They know you support their learning, and as a result, they have had a better college experience because of you.”
Christopher Withrow, PTK Beta Zeta Chapter President, wrote both successful nominations.
“Although his tenure has only spanned a few months,” Withrow wrote, “Dr. Benson has been instrumental in facilitating change on our campus, as well as for our chapter.”
Withrow cited Benson’s willingness to talk with student leaders, even during his vetting process, and address their questions and concerns.
“He presented himself as a champion whom Phi Theta Kappa could rely on,” Withrow said, “and he has fulfilled that assurance. He has been open to any and all suggestions for positive activities that PTK could be involved in to improve the community and fellowship of our institution.”
Paris Junior College — located in Paris, Texas, about 100 miles northeast of Dallas — has been a part of the Lamar County community since 1924.
Paris Junior College offers Associate in Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science degrees, as well as Certificates of Proficiency in technical/workforce fields. The college has expanded its academic curriculum through the years to encourage associate degree and university transfer candidates. Since establishing its first vocational program — jewelry and watchmaking in 1942 — the college has been aggressive in adding technical/workforce programs that will benefit students entering the workforce.
The campus of 54 tree-shaded acres includes 20 major buildings and residence halls and provides students a unique and pleasant environment for learning.
Paris Junior College also operates centers in Sulphur Springs, Texas, and in Greenville, Texas.
Vision
To be the educational provider of choice for the region.
Mission
Paris Junior College is a comprehensive community college serving the region’s educational and training needs while strengthening the economic, social and cultural life of our diverse community.
