The Nu Theta Chapter of Alpha Alpha Alpha (Tri-Alpha), the National Honor Society for first-generation college students, held their inaugural induction ceremony. The class included nine students and six professionals from across campus.
Alpha Alpha Alpha Induction Ceremony photo gallery
Students Dakota Cooper, Franck Nanfack Chezing, Sheltiere Cox-Matos, Stephen Matthews, Carissa Mura, Sharon Riegel Egure, Jeremiah Robbins, RayLee Smith, and Nicholas Zuban were given honor cords along with a certificate.
Assistant Vice President of Well-being & Student Support Jonathan Hilsher, Assistant Director for Residential Life Jared Jensen, Senior Director of Cultural and Student Life Matthew Ryan, Vice President for Student and Employee Affairs Gregory Sammons, Director of Career Planning & Development Maureen Sibble, and Dean for Academic Support and Student Success Francine Staba were also honored.
“Nearly thirty percent of our students are first-generation,” commented Assistant Director of Accessibility Melanie Ryan, who served as emcee for the event alongside her husband Matthew. “Tri-Alpha is a wonderful way to recognize the hard work done by the students. It was exciting evening to honor these students, and we look forward to seeing them wear their honor cords when they cross the commencement stage.”
To qualify for Tri-Alpha students most earn at least thirty credits towards an associate or baccalaureate degree, have a GPA of at least 3.2, and neither of the student’s parents (stepparents or legal guardians) have completed a college degree.
Faculty and staff who meet the definition of first-generation graduates upon the completion of their bachelor’s degree are eligible to be inducted as well. Faculty and staff serve as mentors to first-generation students.