English Honor Society Wins Award

Rockhurst University’s English honor society has some new bragging rights. In March, the Alpha Mu Gamma chapter of Sigma Tau Delta was one of three chapters to receive the coveted chapter of the year award during the organization’s international convention in Portland, Ore.

“I was really excited about receiving the recognition,” said Laura Williams, Mayview, Mo., junior. “We were hoping that this would be our year because we had so many huge events, and the participation last year was excellent, but we were still surprised when we got the news.”

During the 2011-12 academic year, the group put on events like banned book week and their annual book sale, as well as publishing the eighth volume of Infectus – the journal that showcases RU students’ literary and artistic talents.

John Kerrigan, Ph.D., associate professor of English, is one of the faculty advisers for the honor society. He said there is a strong culture of English at the University. He said he wasn’t expecting that RU’s relatively young chapter would win the distinction so early.

“I am so proud of what these students have managed to accomplish in 10 years,” Kerrigan said. “We are part of something big and exciting. We are excited and proud for Rockhurst.”

Of the more than 900 active chapters, both nationally and abroad, RU was chosen along with the University of Alabama, Tulane University and Chapman University. Besides the recognition, the chapter was also awarded a plaque and a $400 prize.

“I am hoping that this award will help us draw more visibility on campus and encourage people to join our organization or the other English organizations,” Williams said.

Membership into this English honor society requires a major in English, an application form, and a personal essay.