Texas Judge Dissolves Gag Order — Survivor’s Book “Saving PTK” to Move Forward
VICTORIA, Texas, Apr. 11, 2025 — A Texas judge has officially dissolved the temporary restraining order that Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) used in an attempt to block the release of Saving PTK: The Whistleblower’s Fight for Truth and Change — a free book by former PTK International Officer Toni Marek that details her experience as a survivor of sexual assault and retaliation by PTK’s top leadership.
“This book was never about revenge — it’s about truth,” Marek said. “It’s about breaking a silence that has cost too many too much. I didn’t write it for headlines. I wrote it for the students, survivors, and whistleblowers who’ve been told to sit down and stay quiet. Not anymore.”
The court’s ruling marks a major First Amendment victory — not just for Marek, but for anyone who’s been silenced through intimidation, legal threats, or abuse of power. The attempted injunction against Saving PTK was a classic case of prior restraint: one of the most extreme forms of censorship in American law.
But while the order has been struck down, the legal battle isn’t over.
Phi Theta Kappa continues to pursue new actions in court. For nearly six months, the multimillion-dollar nonprofit has spent tens of thousands on litigation and cease-and-desist threats aimed at Marek — a survivor, a veteran, and a whistleblower — all while reporting internal financial losses and executive salary increases.
In addition to revealing her personal story, Saving PTK includes:
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Lawfully obtained FOIA documents
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Public records
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Whistleblower testimony
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Allegations of misconduct, financial mismanagement, and survivor silencing
The manuscript is currently being updated to reflect new facts that emerged during the litigation. An updated release date will be announced at www.AndThenSheSpokeUp.com, where visitors can also access court filings, supporting documents, and a new financial transparency section titled Where Is the Money?
This is about more than one book.
It’s about the broader systems — legal, institutional, and cultural — that protect power and punish truth.
“Saving PTK is not just a book — it’s proof that you can stand up, fight back, and win. This victory wasn’t just mine. It belongs to every student, whistleblower, and survivor who’s ever been threatened into silence.”
To support the legal defense fund and help make sure Saving PTK reaches the public, please visit: https://www.givesendgo.com/savephithetakappa
Media Inquiries and Interviews:
Toni Marek
Co-Founder
www.andthenshespokeup.com
[email protected]
(361) 239-2694
Phi Theta Kappa Report: Upcoming Book "Saving PTK" Examines Governance and Transparency Concerns
Victoria, Texas — January 29, 2025 – Saving PTK: The Whistleblower’s Fight for Truth and Change, by Toni Marek, is a public-interest publication that explores concerns raised about Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), which describes itself as the nation’s largest honor society for community college students. Based on publicly available data and firsthand accounts, the book examines governance, recruitment messaging, and financial decision-making within the organization.
The book will be available on Amazon.com starting April 3, 2025, ensuring accessibility for students, parents, educators, and policymakers.
Examining Membership and Scholarship Messaging
PTK promotes recognition for “Top 10%” students and access to $246 million in scholarships. However, publicly available data indicates that eligibility criteria and scholarship accessibility may be broader than some might expect.
- At some colleges, 30% to 60% of students qualify for PTK membership, exceeding the widely advertised “Top 10%” threshold.
- Some advertised exclusive scholarships are also available to non-members.
- PTK states that “the average member receives $2,500 per year in scholarships,” though financial reports do not specify how this figure is calculated across all members.
“PTK has played a significant role in students’ lives, but transparency benefits everyone,” said Marek.
Financial Oversight and Leadership
The book examines PTK’s financial priorities based on publicly available reports:
- PTK’s net income declined by $5.6 million between 2021 and 2023, shifting from a $4.7 million surplus to a $900,000 deficit.
- During this period, CEO Lynn Tincher-Ladner’s salary increased by 49%, reaching $386,564 in 2023.
- Public records show that Tincher-Ladner’s spouse holds a senior role within PTK Foundation.
Perspectives from Former Employees
The book also explores accounts from individuals familiar with PTK’s internal culture:
- A former PTK executive shares insights on leadership communication.
- A former membership services team member shares experiences discussing PTK’s eligibility criteria.
- A former marketing professional shares observations about how recruitment messaging evolved.
Encouraging Transparency
As part of the effort to encourage transparency, Marek has launched a Change.org petition addressing PTK’s governance, recruitment, and financial oversight. More information can be found at Change.org/SavePhiThetaKappa.
“This book and petition aim to bring attention to concerns that students and employees have raised,” said Marek.
Availability
“Saving PTK” will be available for download on Amazon.com starting April 3, 2025. More information can be found at www.andthenshespokeup.com.
Disclaimer
This book is a public-interest publication reflecting the good faith opinions of the author and contributors. It does not allege wrongdoing, nor does it claim to represent PTK’s official policies or operations. It is intended to promote transparency and open discussion about nonprofit governance and recruitment practices. All information is based on publicly available data and firsthand accounts. This book is not endorsed by Phi Theta Kappa.
Media Contact:
Toni Marek
Co-Founder
www.andthenshespokeup.com
[email protected]
(361) 239-2694