Published on April 26, 2019 by Sara Roman  
Kappa Delta Pi

Orlean Beeson School of Education recently welcomed 34 new members into the Kappa Delta Pi, international honor society in education, Zeta Theta chapter.

The ceremony included the induction of new members and the appointment of the 2019-20 Kappa Delta Pi, Zeta Theta officers. Senior secondary education major Celena Hathaway will serve as the 2019-20 chapter president. 

“We are united in a profession whose purpose and challenge is to inspire young and old to grow,” said Kyla Kugler, 2018 Zeta Theta president. “It is my privilege to honor and welcome our newest members.” 

According to Erin Gilchrist, assistant professor and chapter sponsor, the new society members keep good company.

“Albert Einstein, George Washington Carver, Eleanor Roosevelt and Margaret Mead are just a few members that have made outstanding contributions to the development of professional education,” Gilchrist said.

Kappa Delta Pi was founded in 1911 to foster excellence in education and promote fellowship among those dedicated to teaching. The society’s founders chose the name from the Greek words knowledge, duty and power. 

The society provides members with the opportunity to grow their professional competencies while networking and collaborating with peers. Membership affords candidates access to an educator learning network, career center and resources that advance quality education and inspire teachers.

“This organization provides an array of resources, but our Zeta Theta chapter is special because it also promotes strong cross-program networking,” said Gilchrist. “We are intentional about blending our undergraduate and graduate education candidates because we believe that networking component is essential.”

According to Gilchrist, the society also serves as a wonderful opportunity for members to participate in community outreach. Last year, members coordinated a successful book drive that provided books to classrooms which spanned multiple school districts.

“I am proud of our member’s commitment to academics, leadership and service. I know our newest members will continue this tradition of excellence,” said Gilchrist.

 
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.