Emory & Henry College has created a chapter of an international English honor society that builds on a tradition of excellence in education in the humanities and the liberal arts, according to the E&H professor who formed the organization.

Mallory Cox of Suffolk is a member of the inaugural class of the Alpha Tau Lambda chapter of the Sigma Tau Delta honor society.

When she came to teach recently in the E&H English Department, Dr. Nicole Crockett was surprised to learn that the college did

not have a chapter of Sigma Tau Delta.

“I made it a goal to get a chapter started here as soon as possible, especially since Emory & Henry is known for its rigorous academics,” said Crockett. “Adding Sigma Tau Delta to our roster of honor societies continues to build on that reputation and allows us to more formally recognize our students’ excellence.”

Beyond offering students recognition for their academic achievements, Sigma Tau Delta students interested in literature and literary pursuits may come together and enjoy books without the pressure of papers and tests.

“Now that we have officially partnered with the international organization to charter the Alpha Tau Lambda chapter here at Emory & Henry and inducted our first group of members, we hope to continually increase our membership,” adds Crockett.

Membership in Sigma Tau Delta is open to students in all academic disciplines. Students should have a B average in two literature or composition classes beyond English 101 and at least a 3.0 overall GPA.

A member of the Association of College Honor Societies, the group was founded in 1924 at Dakota Wesleyan University in Madison, S.D.

Sigma Tau Delta’s central purpose is to confer distinction upon students of the English language and literature in undergraduate, graduate and professional studies. Sigma Tau Delta also recognizes the accomplishments of professional writers who have contributed to the fields of language and literature.

With more than 800 active chapters located in the United States, Europe, the Middle East and the Caribbean, Sigma Tau Delta boasts more than 1,000 faculty sponsors and the annual induction of approximately 9,000 members.

Sigma Tau Delta is also the sponsor of The National English Honor Society. NEHS provides an outreach to thousands of students and teachers who share a commitment to excellence in English language arts.