Jefferson State’s ADA Accommodations Office recently announced a new chapter of the Delta Alpha Pi International Honor Society for Jefferson State students.
The new student organization will recognize outstanding academic achievement among students with disabilities, and strive to remove stigmas and stereotypes associated with disability which may cause students to be reluctant to identify themselves publicly.
“Students with disabilities face challenges other students do not, and despite those challenges they not only persevere but they excel,” said Jefferson State Accommodations Coordinator and advisor for the Delta Alpha Pi chapter Scotty Rainwater. “It is exciting to recognize both the academic achievements of our students, and the initiatives they will embrace to educate the campus community about disabilities.”
The chapter at Jefferson State is designated the Iota Nu chapter and is the first chapter to be established at a community college in Alabama. Delta Alpha Pi also has chapters at Auburn University, the University of Alabama at Birmingham, the University of North Alabama, and the University of South Alabama. The Iota Nu chapter at Jefferson State has 14 founding members. These members were inducted into the honor society on April 25, 2024.
“The Jefferson State Student Government Association could not be happier to endorse the establishment of Delta Alpha Pi honor society,” said JSCC SGA President Moises Munoz Paredes. “We believe organizations like ΔAΠ are vital to the growth and enrichment of Jefferson State students, and we are excited to see the positive impact ΔAΠ will have on the entire Jefferson State community.”
The Greek letters selected for Delta Alpha Pi each have specific meanings. Delta (D) is for disability but it is also a triangle which symbolizes strength. Members in Delta Alpha Pi demonstrate strength as leaders on campus and in their classes to help break down the barriers of negativism. They also serve as mentors and role models for other students with disabilities. Alpha (A) is for achievement. Admittance into the honor society is based on outstanding academic achievement. “A” also stands for advocacy because students must advocate for themselves before they can advocate for others. Members of Delta Alpha Pi enhance their advocacy skills for themselves and for the rights of all individuals with disabilities to be included fully in society. Pi (P) stands for pride, pride in academic achievement and in other accomplishments, not just as students with disabilities, but as members of the college community. The JSCC SGA approved the chapter as a student organization in November 2023.
“To become greater than oneself is to inspire others, and Delta Alpha Pi has given us the opportunity to do just that,” said Delta Alpha Pi President Wesley Slaughter. “I believe Iota Nu is a stepping stone to unimaginable opportunities for everyone.”
To learn more about Delta Alpha Pi, go to www.deltaalphapihonorsociety.org.
