By Ashton Drought
May 1, 2026
The Honors Society at Genesee Community College provides students with opportunities to expand their academic experience beyond the classroom while preparing for future careers.
Students with a GPA of 3.25 or higher are eligible to apply. According to Program Coordinator and Professor of Criminal Justice Karen Wicka, the program is designed to help students challenge themselves academically, build professional relationships, and engage with a community of motivated peers.
The Honors Society emphasizes three main goals. First, students are encouraged to complete work that goes beyond standard course requirements, allowing them to gain a deeper understanding of course material. Second, the program promotes the development of professional relationships with faculty and staff, helping students build skills that will be valuable in their future careers. Third, students are given opportunities to connect with other honors participants and develop a supportive academic community.
Wicka said that while the additional workload can be challenging, it also helps students develop time-management skills and explore new areas within their field of study.
The program has also undergone significant changes in recent years. After the loss of the previous faculty coordinator Garth Swanson, Wicka worked to restructure the Honors Society. The program has shifted away from designated honors courses and now allows students to take greater control of their academic experience.
Enrollment has increased because of these changes. The program grew from no students in 2023 to nearly 30 students by December 2025. Wicka said she hopes to continue expanding participation in the coming years.
Students in the Honors Society select a faculty mentor and complete a contract course each semester. In these courses, they complete an additional project, such as a research paper or internship, tailored to their academic interests.
In addition, students must complete a capstone project before graduation. These projects are designed to reflect their field of study and can be presented to future employers. Examples include marketing plans developed by business majors or portfolios created by art students. Honors students are also required to complete 15 hours of community service.
Through these requirements, the Honors Society aims to support students in developing academically and professionally while encouraging them to take an active role in shaping their education.