Cecil College President Dr. Bolt receives PTK’s Award of Distinction

NORTH EAST, Md: Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society (PTK) has named Dr. Mary Way Bolt, President of Cecil College, as a recipient of the Shirley B. Gordon Award of Distinction, the Society’s highest honor for community college presidents. Dr. Bolt was recognized during PTK Catalyst, Phi Theta Kappa’s annual international convention held March 26-28, in Baltimore, Maryland.

The Shirley B. Gordon Award of Distinction honors college presidents who have demonstrated sustained, exceptional commitment to student success through academic excellence, leadership development, and access to opportunity. Nominees must have served in their role for at least five years and are selected based on nominations submitted by Phi Theta Kappa students on their campus.

Throughout her presidency, Dr. Bolt has been recognized for a leadership style defined by visibility, consistency, and a deep respect for students and their achievements. Students describe a president who is present and engaged—one who takes time to celebrate academic success, listens thoughtfully, and ensures that recognition remains a meaningful part of the college experience.

Dr. Bolt has consistently emphasized that student success is strengthened when achievement is acknowledged and opportunity is accessible. Her leadership reflects a belief that recognition matters—not just as a ceremony, but as an affirmation of effort, persistence, and potential. Under her direction, Cecil College has fostered a culture in which academic distinction and student leadership are integral to the institution’s mission.

Students frequently note Dr. Bolt’s personal engagement at academic celebrations and campus events, where she interacts directly with students and families. She is known for encouraging students to take pride in their accomplishments and for reinforcing the idea that their work and contributions matter to the college and the broader community.

At the core of Dr. Bolt’s leadership is a belief in students’ ability to rise when they are supported, seen, and encouraged. She consistently communicates confidence in students’ potential and reinforces the message that excellence is achievable when institutions lead with intention and care.

“Dr. Bolt leads with authenticity and an unwavering commitment to students,” said Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner, President and CEO of Phi Theta Kappa. “She understands that recognition is powerful when it is rooted in respect and presence. This honor reflects the gratitude of students who have experienced her leadership firsthand.”

The Shirley B. Gordon Award of Distinction is named in honor of the late Dr. Shirley B. Gordon, Phi Theta Kappa’s longest-serving Board Chair and a lifelong advocate for community college students.

About Phi Theta Kappa

Phi Theta Kappa is the first honor society to recognize the academic achievement of students at associate degree-granting colleges and to help them grow as scholars and leaders. The Society serves more than 4.4 million members and nearly 1,250 chapters worldwide. Learn more at ptk.org.

About Cecil College

Founded in 1968, Cecil College is a comprehensive, open-admission, learner-centered institution providing career, transfer, and continuing education coursework and programs. Our numerous degree and certificate offerings, along with our continuing education and workforce development programs, anticipate and meet the dynamic intellectual, cultural, and economic development challenges of Cecil County and the surrounding region. Cecil College strives to empower each learner with the skills, knowledge, and values needed for college preparation, transfer to four-year colleges and universities, workforce entry or advancement, and personal enrichment through our support services and a technologically enriched learning environment. For more information, visit cecil.edu.