On Thursday, Feb. 19, the Alpha Lambda Delta honor society began the process of increasing its membership. Earlier this semester, several students were invited to join the Elizabethtown College chapter of the national organization and attended a meeting that introduced them to the organization. In order to be considered for Alpha Lambda Delta, a student must maintain both full-time enrollment status and at least a 3.5 GPA during their first term. Additionally, a student must be in the top 20 percent of his or her class. This year’s class had 174 students qualify for membership.

Several of the invited students expressed how good it felt to see the many hours of work they put into their education pay off so significantly. “I am excited to be part of a group that is motivated and driven towards academic success,” first-year biochemistry major Colby Schweibenz said. First-year actuarial science major Nina Cicero and first-year biochemistry major Kayla Hess also expressed their excitement to join. “I was really pleased seeing how many of my peers are getting involved and doing well in classes. It makes me sure of my decision to come to Elizabethtown and proud of my accomplishments this early in college,” Hess said.

“It’s not an easy goal to reach, and it’s an honor to have such an accomplishment receive the recognition of your peers and a national honor society like ALD,” first-year international business major David Smith said of the high GPA requirement.

Other than the recognition they will receive, members of the honor society are also eligible to receive additional educational opportunities and scholarships.

The Elizabethtown chapter of Alpha Lambda Delta, recipient of the Silver-level Delta Award, is advised by Dr. Justin Badgerow, associate professor of music, and is currently presided over by sophomore Tyler Butkus.

An additional ALD meeting will be held to elect new officers on Thursday, Feb. 26.