The academic accomplishments of 26 Penn State Berks students were celebrated on Feb. 24, 2026, when they were inducted into the college’s Lambda Beta Chapter of Alpha Alpha Alpha, a national honor society for first-generation college students. The students, along with honorary inductee James McCarty, director of enrollment management, were recognized in a ceremony attended by more than 60 guests.
McCarty and Penn State Berks student Nate Baker, who was inducted into the honor society last year, shared their inspirational first-generation stories and advice during the ceremony.
Lambda Beta Chapter advisers Alexa Hodge, associate director of the student success center, and Lolita Paff, associate professor of business and economics, commented that they are both proud first-generation college graduates. They stated that they look forward to working with inductees, the Office of Students Affairs, and staff and faculty of the college to increase recognition of and support for first-generation college students at Penn State Berks.
“Welcoming a new class of inductees into Tri-Alpha is a powerful reminder that first-generation excellence is not an exception at Penn State Berks — it is a defining strength of our campus community,” stated Paff.
“Our first-generation students are already proof of what is possible. Their induction into Tri-Alpha recognizes not just their academic success, but their resilience and determination to navigate spaces that may have once felt unfamiliar,” added Hodge.
Hodge explained, “During the ceremony, inductees were encouraged to continue stretching themselves — to pursue opportunities that may feel intimidating, to engage in organizations beyond their comfort zones and to trust that they are capable of more than they may currently realize. They were reminded that growth often begins just outside what feels safe.”
“They were also encouraged to intentionally seek out community. Building relationships with mentors, peers and advocates who both support and challenge them will be critical as they continue their academic and personal journeys. At times, others may recognize their potential before they fully see it in themselves — and that belief can make all the difference,” Paff stated.
“As a first-generation college graduate myself, I understand the determination, resilience and hard work it takes to reach this milestone. It is an honor to welcome this outstanding group of students into the Penn State Berks Beta Lambda Chapter of Tri-Alpha. We are thrilled to recognize their academic excellence and commitment to success. These students’ achievements not only open doors for their own futures but also inspire others in their families and communities. I am deeply honored and committed to mentoring and supporting them on their journeys, just as others once guided me.”
The induction ceremony was made possible by campus donors Michael and Diane Katzaman.
Michael Katzaman is a native of Reading and a first-generation college student. He began his studies at Penn State Berks before graduating from Penn State University Park in 1973 with a degree in computer science. In 1976, he completed an MBA at Drexel University and went on to a successful career in technology, working in management positions for General Electric and MCI Inc., among others before retiring in 2003.
Diane Malcolm Katzaman graduated from Penn State in 1971 with a bachelor’s degree in horticulture and worked for several years as a Penn State Extension agriculture educator in Bucks County. After earning an MBA from the University of Pennsylvania, she spent many years in information technology and health care marketing positions. Upon her retirement in 2015, she became a Penn State Extension master gardener in Berks County.
For more information on ways to connect with and supporting first-generation students, contact both Hodge at AEH221@psu.edu and Paff at LAP21@psu.edu.
