ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS (October 12, 2026) — Augustana College has been named to Phi Theta Kappa’s 2026 Transfer Honor Roll, recognizing institutions that excel in student success, credit mobility and degree applicability, financial support, recruitment and admissions, and campus engagement for transfer students.
Of the 1,117 colleges and universities that completed PTK’s 2026 institutional profile, only 275 received the recognition.
For transfer students like senior physics major Cholo Ferrolino, Augustana’s welcoming community and support made a lasting impression. A transfer from McHenry County Community College, Ferrolino chose Augustana after visiting campus, hearing about the experiences of friends, and learning about transfer scholarship opportunities.
“Being a first-generation student, I really wanted a good major and a good job,” Ferrolino said.
“I did an in-person visit to Augustana, and going around campus and seeing the people there, everyone seemed so welcoming.”
Since transferring, Ferrolino has gained hands-on experience in Professor James van Howe’s optics lab, earned a prestigious Open Quantum Initiative fellowship through the Chicago Quantum Exchange, and helped create a pipeline for Augustana students to participate in national-level quantum physics research.
He also serves as president of the Photography Club and historian for the Asian Student Organization.
Sophomore Joshua Hackney, a double major in Philosophy and Communication Studies, transferred from Wake Tech Community College in North Carolina. He said Augustana provided the academic depth and faculty relationships he was seeking.
“I was hungry for depth, and I wanted answers,” Hackney said.
“I really got into philosophy and communications, and I realized at Augustana I could explore the things I’m passionate about while getting the full liberal arts experience.”
Rachel Gustafson is Augustana’s executive director of admissions, transfer, nursing, health sciences, and graduate studies. She is proud of the Transfer Honor Roll recognition, which reinforces Augustana’s commitment to transfer students.
“We are proud that Augustana has established itself as a community where transfer students can find a renewed sense of belonging, rigorous academic programs, and comprehensive support,” Gustafson said.
