From the President

Dear fellow Phi Betes,

What a joy it was to see so many of you at our recent Phi Beta Kappa awards luncheon – our first in four years since the pandemic began! The positive feedback we’ve received has been heartwarming, and it’s evident that everyone relished the chance to reconnect and celebrate the accomplishments of our esteemed colleagues and students. Your presence and active participation made this event truly exciting. I want to express my deepest gratitude to those who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to orchestrate this gathering, especially Joanne Sandstrom and Jean James, with assistance from Judy Hardardt, Ray Hendess, and Larry Davenport. Your dedication and meticulous planning truly paid off, as the event was a resounding success.

The ceremony itself was inspiring. We were privileged to honor our exceptional professors with Teaching Excellence Awards, and each graciously shared insights into their teaching philosophies, powerful reminders of the transformative impact of education on shaping the future. Furthermore, we had the pleasure of awarding scholarships to students who have shown outstanding academic achievement and a genuine passion for their respective fields of study. These scholars captivated us all with presentations of their diverse and compelling research projects.

Regrettably, this year’s celebration coincided with pressing global issues, including the ongoing Israel and Palestine conflict, which deeply concerns us. In times of upheaval, the values upheld by Phi Beta Kappa—intellectual curiosity, academic excellence, and a commitment to lifelong learning—are more crucial than ever. These disciplines foster critical thinking, empathy, and the ability to see the world through different lenses—all essential skills that empower individuals to navigate complex issues like this one. As a community, let us persist in championing these values as we work towards a brighter future for all.

I encourage you to remain actively involved in our community by attending our upcoming events. Your ongoing participation is invaluable as we continue to advocate for liberal arts and sciences education among a community of lifelong learners.

I would like to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to Duncan Missimer for his unwavering dedication as our treasurer throughout the years. While his presence at board meetings will be dearly missed, we look forward to seeing him at our annual events. With great enthusiasm, I warmly welcome Audrey Utchen, our incoming treasurer, who will assume the role from Duncan starting July 1st.

In closing, I thank our dedicated board members, committee chairs, and supporters whose tireless efforts make the Phi Beta Kappa Northern California Association a vibrant organization. 

Ole! Time for Tapas-Making Class with master chef Chris Kenber, July 20, 2024, 10 AM. Members $50, Non-members $75.

Join us for the Exclusive Tapas-Making Class with our Exclusive Tapas Chef Chris Kenber, Saturday, July 20, 2024 starting at 10:00 am & ending at 3:00 pm.

What an experience this will be for us!  We will meet at Judy Hardardt’s condo in Davis where we will have the chance to not just learn about Tapas but also how to make them.  This will be a “hands-on” experience led by master chef Chris Kenber.  The class will be followed by lunch including the tapas we’ll have made.  By the end of the day, we’ll be going home with freshly made souvenirs. https://pbknca.com/event-5718000

Honk! On the Road to a Car Museum, August 24, 2024, 11:00 AM. Members $25, Non-members $40

Come join a docent-led tour of the California Automobile Museum, housing a collection of over 150 classic cars, race cars, muscle cars and early models. Displays range from a 1900 Locomobile Steam Car up to today’s electric cars. Be sure to check out the Glamour Road exhibit (August 5th to late October) highlighting color, fashion, style and the mid-century automobile.

Located in downtown Sacramento, the museum’s mission is to educate and entertain while preserving and promoting the automobile and its influence on our lives. https://pbknca.com/event-5731580

Past, Present, and Future of Treasure Island, Sept 28, 2024, 10:30 AM Members $30, Non-members $45

Treasure Island Museum, housed in the historic Art Moderne Golden Gate International Exposition Administration

Building, which was also the air terminal for the Pan American Clipper Ships. The second hour or so will be a 3-mile walking tour of the island with sun and wind exposure, but is easy walking.

Gourmet snacks, a bar and restaurants are close by for those wanting to stay for lunch https://pbknca.com/event-5731579.

38th Annual Asilomar Conference Feb 14–17, 2025

Register now for 2025 at https://pbknca.com/event-5621925, or use coupon on page 2 of the PDF hardcopy.

There is an ongoing virtual book club open to interested members.

Contact Program VP O'Neil Dillon at oneilsdillon@gmail.com