Published on April 15, 2022 by Kameron Brown  
kappa delta pi education

Samford University’s Orlean Beeson School of Education recently welcomed 30 new members into its Zeta Theta chapter of Kappa Delta Pi, an international honor society in education.

The occasion marks the first time this event has been held in-person in two years. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, students participated in the event virtually. Now, new members are excited to celebrate this accomplishment together.

“Kappa Delta Pi is an international education honor society that celebrates the excellence of teachers,” said Kate Scarborough, assistant professor and Kappa Delta Pi’s organization counselor. “Membership in this honor society follows you beyond college and into the classroom.”

The society recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of the students, as well as their character.

“These students demonstrate excellence in their classwork and clinical placements, they strive to do their best, they are dedicated, and show strong leadership,” Scarborough said. 

Grace Cooper says she is honored and grateful, as she steps down from her position as the chapter’s president and welcomes Mary Snyder as the new president.

“Being a part of Kappa Delta Pi has simply been an honor. My hope and vision for the next cabinet is to keep it simple and local. As educators, we commit to the well-being of a community because we commit the well-being and success of their kids,” Cooper said.

The ceremony included the induction of new members and the appointment of the 2022-23 Kappa Delta Pi, Zeta Theta officers. Following a welcome from Dean Anna McEwan, Hannah Creel entertained guests and honorees with a musical performance. 

Guest speaker, Armentress Robinson, principal of Charles F. Hard Elementary School, spoke at the ceremony.

“Teaching is a calling, an honor and a privilege,” Robinson said.

Following the initiation of the new members and the installation of the new officers, there was a recognition of the graduating members where students received a rose for their service to the organization.

“All good things must come to an end. I'm ready to graduate with my degree and start teaching. My profession has been something I have been working towards my whole life so I'm ready to go,” Cooper said. 

Monique Witherspoon, associate professor and associate dean, offered closing remarks and a prayer for the conclusion of the ceremony.

 
Samford is a leading Christian university offering undergraduate programs grounded in the liberal arts with an array of nationally recognized graduate and professional schools. Founded in 1841, Samford is the 87th-oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. Samford enrolls 6,101 students from 45 states, Puerto Rico and 16 countries in its 10 academic schools: arts, arts and sciences, business, divinity, education, health professions, law, nursing, pharmacy and public health. Samford fields 17 athletic teams that compete in the tradition-rich Southern Conference and ranks 6th nationally for its Graduation Success Rate among all NCAA Division I schools.