St. Lawrence University's chapter of the national leadership organization
Omicron Delta Kappa has been named a "Circle of Distinction" by the group.
Of the 279 Circles of the society, only 13 received the Circle of Distinction
honor for the 2001-2002 academic year.
Omicron Delta Kappa, was founded in 1914, at Washington and Lee University by
student and faculty leaders. In the tradition of the idealism and leadership
of George Washington and Robert E. Lee, the founders formulated the idea that
leadership of exceptional quality and versatility in college should be recognized,
that representatives in all phases of college life should cooperate in a worthwhile
endeavor, and that outstanding students, faculty and administration members
should meet on a basis of mutual interest, understanding and helpfulness.
At St. Lawrence, recognition of outstanding leadership began in the early
1920's. At that time, Kixioc (for men) and Kalon (for women) were formed to
recognize students who have excelled in scholarship, leadership, and service
to the University. In 1954, Kixioc became affiliated with Omicron Delta Kappa,
and at the same time Kalon became an affiliate of Mortar Board, the national senior
honorary for women. In 1976, the members of Omicron Delta Kappa and Mortar
Board decided to merge into one organization: The Kalon-Kixiox Chapter of Omicron
Delta Kappa, open to junior and senior men and women and to members of the
faculty and staff.
New members are "tapped" in a traditional ceremony held on campus in the spring,
following Moving-Up Day events.
Read more about ODK
at St. Lawrence.