Wittenberg University’s Lambda Iota chapter of the National Collegiate Hispanic Honor Society has been named an “Honor Chapter” for its outstanding activities in 2016-2017.
Being named “Honor Chapter” is an award that was bestowed upon only 12 chapters nationwide in 2017. This is the chapter’s second national award in its history. Assistant Professor of Languages Sheree Henlon and Visiting Assistant Professor of Languages Elizabeth Amaya, the chapter advisors, were instrumental in earning this year’s national recognition.
“Lambda Iota members are Spanish minors and majors from the Department of World Languages and Cultures,” Amaya said. “Members are committed to increasing an awareness of the contributions of Hispanic cultures; and the importance of being appreciative of and celebrating world cultures. Wittenberg’s chapter was recognized for the year’s impressive events that fulfill the highest ideals of the society.”
Some events included Trivia Night, Immigration Panel, Día de los muertos (an important Mexican celebration that represents the syncretism of the culture) and an Earth Day celebration of Pachamama, a ceremony to thank Mother Earth and show respect to nature.
Each summer, the more than 613 chapters of Sigma Delta Pi across the United States are asked to submit an annual report detailing their numerous activities and projects from the academic year. Based on these reports, the National Executive Committee chooses approximately 15 to 20 award recipients annually.
Chapter recognitions are based upon the caliber of chapter projects that reflect the Sigma Delta Pi mission of honoring excellence in the study of the Spanish language, contributing to cultural understanding and upholding the goals of the society.
With its national office at the College of Charleston in South Carolina, Sigma Delta Pi is a member of the Association of College Honor Societies, the nation’s only certifying agency for college and university honor societies.
