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The Pepperdine 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 2009-10.  

Sigma 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.

Lila Carlsen, assistant professor of Hispanic Studies, is the current chapter adviser and was instrumental in earning the national honor, which was awarded to only 12 chapters this year.

"There are so many opportunities to celebrate and connect with Hispanic culture here in Malibu and the Los Angeles area," says Carlsen. "Our officers this past year, Jayde Ashford, Larissa Crownover, and Sarah Chevallier, were fundamental in coordinating projects that were enjoyable and enriching for the members. They are outstanding students and leaders who truly appreciate the Spanish language and Hispanic culture."

Carlsen adds that the outstanding activities organized by the students included a reception for guest speaker Professor Raymond L. Williams, who gave a talk on contemporary Latin American fiction, a group volunteer day at Malibu Labor Exchange Language Connection, and a Hispanic film night.

Each May, all 575 chapters of Sigma Delta Pi are asked to submit an annual report detailing their numerous activities and projects from the academic year. The 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.

This is the second consecutive year that the Pepperdine chapter won the award. "I am thankful to my colleagues in Hispanic Studies and particularly April Marshall, who advised the chapter for several years before I took over in 2009," says Carlsen. "I have simply encouraged our members to continue on the path that Dr. Marshall and previous officers started."

With its national office at the College of 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.