Omicron Delta Kappa Named Circle of Distinction

Omicron Delta Kappa Named Circle of Distinction

Georgia Southern’s circle of Omicron Delta Kappa has gained attention from the National Leadership Honor Society for its dedication to the ODK standards of excellence.

According to John Banter, campus advisor for the Circle, the honor is bestowed upon circles that have exceptional performance of their responsibilities including leadership and community service.

“Georgia Southern’s Omicron Delta Kappa Circle provides its members with leadership development workshops and several opportunities for community service,” Banter said. “For example, our ODK circle has been responsible for collecting hundreds of canned goods during opening night at the Kiwanis Ogeechee Fair for many years, and has packaged and delivered items to local senior citizen facilities during the holidays.”

In an effort to be named a Circle of Distinction, Georgia Southern’s circle not only hosted workshops on campus and participated in community service, the circle also participated in the ODK National Leadership Summit and Convention, held an induction for 51 new members and participated in the regional ODK meeting held at Clemson University.

“The goal of each circle is to recognize those who have met a high standard of excellence with their college activities and to inspire others to do the same,” Banter said. “Being named a Circle of Distinction is a true testament to our student, faculty and staff members’ dedication to leadership and desire to make an impact on others.”

Alexandrea Williams, student president of the Georgia Southern circle, was excited to learn of the chapter’s national recognition.

“It was very exciting to hear that our chapter was named a Circle of Distinction for the 2012-2013 year. It is always encouraging to see an organization, whether I am a part of it or not, receive national recognition for their achievements. I hope that this continues and our circle continues to improve and receive recognition,” Williams said.

She added that serving in a leadership role of such an organization is very rewarding.

“What I enjoy most about this organization is being a part of a group of people that share the same drive to be successful in our respective fields of interest,” Williams said. “I have come across many people in this organization who lead and serve because they want to, and not because they feel obligated.”

Georgia Southern’s Circle of ODK was chartered in 1999, and membership is open by invitation to juniors, seniors and graduate students who are in the top 35 percent of their classes. Those that do apply are then selected for membership based on their level of involvement and scholastic dedication in the five areas of achievement that ODK focuses on: Scholarship; Athletics; Campus/Community Service, Social or Religious Activities, and Campus Government; Journalism, Speech and the Mass Media; and Creative and Performing Arts.