Eight Ģý students have become members of the college’s newest honor society Alpha Phi Sigma, which recognizes excellence in criminal justice.
Criminal justice advisor Douglas Davis, who is also a member of the honor society, welcomed the new students – KaWanda Temple, Anna Hurt, Krystal Jones, Leo Hanlon, Charity Martin, Evenlyn Foster, Raven Jackson, and Katherine Epifanio – into the Nu Sigma chapter in a ceremony April 10 in Miller Chapel.
“I am very proud,” Davis said. “The honor society was chartered one year before the degree was even voted on and it is a compliment to students, especially the new chapter president, KaWanda Temple.”
To gain membership in Alpha Phi Sigma, criminal justice majors or minors must have completed three full semesters or its equivalent, have an overall grade point average (GPA) of 3.2, a 3.2 GPA in criminal justice courses, and be ranked in the top 35 percent of their class. A minimum of four courses are required in the criminal justice field.
“It has definitely been a long road,” said Temple. “Now I am starting to see my hard work paying off. I learned to never give up on anything. Without Chief Davis none of this would be possible.”
During the induction ceremony, Davis lit four candles, which represents the honor society’s four ideals: academic excellence, unity, leadership, and service.
Each inducted member received a key emblazoned with the scales of justice, the shield of honor, and the columns of learning. The honor society has two significant colors: blue, for criminal justice, and gold, which represents scholarship.
“It is definitely an honor to be one of the first inductees of Alpha Phi Sigma at Ģý,” said Jones, a junior. “I have made a lifelong pledge to serve my community, protect those around me, and make a positive change in the lives that I encounter along the way. I am excited to devote my life to the business of change.”