UTM's Beta Chi Chapter of Phi Chi Theta, the National Professional Fraternity in Business and Economics, recently received the honor of top chapter in the nation. This award in the Efficiency Rating Program (ERP) competition marks the 23rd time the chapter has been recognized as the most outstanding in the nation.

The 2002-2003 chapter president is optimistic for the year ahead. "It's an honor and a privilege to help lead such a successful organization with high goals. We hope that UTM's chapter will maintain this streak for years to come." said Andrew Usery, junior Accounting, Franklin.

Members from UTM's chapter received the award at the 37th Phi Chi Theta national convention, held in St. Louis in August.

The chapter received the ERP honor over groups from institutions including the University of Texas, the University of Michigan, New York University and many others.

"I'm happy that our chapter has gained national recognition so consistently," said Cynthia Luttrell, a junior Accounting major from Dyersburg and the chapter's vice president.

The chapter's performance was judged in 10 categories, including administration, pledging and initiations, professional service, educational activities, and conference participation.

"I am extremely proud of the members of the UT Martin Chapter of Phi Chi Theta for their hard work and professionalism," said Dr. Thomas Payne, professor of finance and Horace and Sara Dunagan Chair of Excellence in Banking. "They have consistently exhibited leadership through service to the business profession and their community.

Included in the members' “hard work” was a wide variety of community and campus activities. Members were instrumental in planning the College of Business and Public Affairs' annual Business Week. The chapter also volunteered with the local Special Olympics games and hosted a “Cook Out for a Cause” to benefit the Boys and Girls Club.

“I'm proud to be involved with a group that's so well-respected and with such a great track record on a national level,” said member Joseph Brasher, junior, Finance, Sharon. “(My membership) has also given me great opportunities to network with future employers.”

Along with the ERP award, the chapter walked away with other major honors. Payne was named National Adviser of the Year; Dr. Kay Durden, professor of information systems, received the Naomi Satterfield Alumni Achievement Award; and Clinton received one of three $1,000 Anna E. Hall and Helen D. Snow Memorial scholarships. In addition, chapter alumnus Betsy Brasher, of Knoxville, was elected

National Vice President of Collegiate Affairs, and chapter alumnus Lynn Vo, of Nashville, was elected Southern Regional Director.

Payne and Durden also noted that Dr. Ernest Moser, dean of the College of Business and Public Affairs, is very supportive of the Beta Chi Chapter and other student organizations.

"His encouragement and support played a major role in the success of the chapter," Durden said.

Durden became the chapter's founding adviser in 1966, a role she filled until 1978, and has been a member of the Martin Alumni Chapter since its inception.