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Frequently Asked Questions
History
Is this for real, why join?
First, let us say that we understand your concern. In today's higher education, there are numerous "honor" societies that offer little or no benefit in exchange for a healthy sum. We're sure that your exceptional student has been contacted by several of these less-than-reputable organizations. Now, let us tell you what sets Alpha Lambda Delta apart.
- Alpha Lambda Delta has been around for over 80 years - the Society was founded in 1924 at the University of Illinois by Dean of Women Maria Leonard.
- ALD was one of the first members of the Association of College Honor Societies - the organization that sets the standard for honor societies in the United States. All ACHS member Societies are required to meet strict guidelines regarding their membership requirements, governance structures, and operational practices in order to proudly display the ACHS logo. For more information about ACHS and about the standards for honor societies, please visit the ACHS web site and read the Standards Alert.
- Alpha Lambda Delta offers plenty of opportunities (see below) for very little cost - lifetime national dues are only $20!
Why was I invited?
You were invited because you've attained a 3.5 or higher GPA in your first year or term in higher education, and you're in the top 20% of your class after the first year or term. You've already earned the recognition that Alpha Lambda Delta offers - now, all you have to do is accept it.
What exactly is my $50 for?
Aside from the honor and recognition that come with becoming a member in an academic honor society with over 80 years of tradition, Alpha Lambda Delta offers the following opportunities:
- Recognition at a chapter initiation ceremony, where he/she will receive a membership certificate and an piece of ALD insignia jewelry. Parents are encouraged to attend and share in their student's accomplishment.
- The opportunity to compete for over $150,000 each year awarded as scholarships and fellowships to deserving ALD members.
- Opportunities to work with other outstanding students on campus and community service projects, to meet with them in chapter service projects, and to be noticed as an outstanding scholar by the campus community as a whole.
- Opportunities to grow as a leader, both at the local and national level. Students are encouraged to run for local chapter offices, and students are also selected each year to sit on the National Council, the governing body for the entire national organization.
- Members are allowed to wear ALD Senior Honor Cords at graduation, marking them as exceptional scholars on their special day.
- Students who maintain the ALD GPA may be awarded ALD senior certificates, and the Maria Leonard Book Award, given to almost 150 outstanding ALD members each year!
What is Phi Eta Sigma? Can I join both?
Phi Eta Sigma is another honor society for first year students. ALD and PES were twin organizations (one for men, one for women) until the Title IX decisions made both organizations co-educational in the 1970's. On some campuses, there are chapters of both ALD and PES, and on some of those campuses, the organizations work together as a joint chapter.
If there are both groups on your campus, you can certainly join both. In fact, by joining both, you'll be eligible for the membership benefits and scholarship competitions offered by both groups!
What do I get by joining Alpha Lambda Delta?
- Lifetime National membership dues are only $20 (Local dues may be added)
- Enjoy your privacy- Alpha Lambda Delta will never sell your personal information to third parties
- Participate in local and National service and social activities - do your part to help the community and your campus
- Compete for $55,000 in undergraduate scholarships at the National Level
- Compete for almost $90,000 in Alpha Lambda Delta Graduate Fellowships
- Make friends from around the nation at the annual National Leadership Workshop
- Wear Alpha Lambda Delta Senior Honor Cords at your graduation exercises
- Receive the recognition that comes from membership in a national society with over 80 years of tradition!
This is the only chapter in Washington...what about Oregon and Idaho?
Like Washington, Idaho only has one chapter. However, Oregon has multiple chapters. Click on one of the states in the image below for more information.
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