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Pepperdine's Chapter of Sigma Delta Pi Earns National Award

Pepperdine University's chapter of the National Collegiate Hispanic Honor Society, Sigma Delta Pi, has been named an "Honor Chapter" for its outstanding activities in 2008-09.  

Sigma Delta PiSigma Delta Pi

Sigma Delta Pi was established in 1982 in Seaver College's International Studies and Languages division to honor those who attain excellence in the study of the Spanish language and in the study of the literature and culture of the Spanish-speaking peoples. Currently, the society is made up of 15 members. In 2004, April D. Marshall, associate professor of Hispanic studies, took over as advisor. "This recognition gives our chapter national visibility in the organization. There are over 500 local chapters of Sigma, so this is a real distinction for Pepperdine. Furthermore, it highlights our chapter's dedication to the Hispanic community around us," Marshall says.

Each May, all 564 chapters of Sigma Delta Pi are asked to submit an annual report detailing their numerous activities and projects from the academic year. Based on these reports, the National Executive Committee chose nine "Honor Chapters" this year. This recognition is based upon the caliber of chapter projects that reflect the Sigma Delta Pi mission of honoring excellence in the study of the Spanish language, contributing to cultural understanding and upholding the goals of the society.

Marshall says that Pepperdine’s officers, 2008 graduates Jazmin Aguila and Rebekah Donaldson were instrumental in earning this national honor that was awarded to only nine chapters in 2009.

"Last year we had a variety of activities, many of which were service-oriented," says Marshall of the reason for Pepperdine's recognition. "For instance, in December 2008 Sigma members were invited to participate in Malibu Labor Exchange’s Christmas Party as well as celebrate with the Mixteca-Indigena Communtiy Organizing Project and help with children’s holiday activities at Navidad en Oxnard. We also tried to be active in cultural activities on campus that involved Spanish, like the Tiempo Libre concert at Smothers Theatre last January. Our chapter offered free tickets to 10 Sigma members so they could attend the timba concert, a mix of Latin jazz and Cuban son."

With its national office at The Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina, Sigma Delta Pi is a member of the Association of College Honor Societies, the nation's only certifying agency for college and university honor societies.

To find out more about Sigma Delta Pi National, click here. For more information about the Pepperdine chapter, visit the International Studies and Languages division.