A new international honor society recognizing high-achieving students with disabilities has been established on UNC Greensboro’s campus to acknowledge and celebrate their academic accomplishments.
Last fall, the Zeta Phi chapter of Delta Alpha Pi International Honor Society was established, becoming one of 170 chapters across the country, one of four in the state, and the first of its kind at UNCG. The organization supports the academic achievement, leadership, and advocacy of its members by providing opportunities to serve as mentors and participate in activities designed to serve and educate the community.
While the organization was established specifically for students with disabilities, students, staff, and faculty of all abilities are invited to apply, attend meetings, and participate in chapter activities. To be eligible for membership, undergraduate students must also have a minimum 3.1 GPA and 24 credit hours completed, and graduate students must have a minimum 3.3 GPA and 18 credit hours completed.
Since forming the chapter last semester, Rose Ewald, chapter president and doctoral student in the Dept. of Public Health Education, has facilitated monthly Zoom meetings with her fellow members, bringing in speakers from Environmental Health and Safety, Housing and Residence Life, and UNCG Police to discuss accessibility and safety on campus.
Other ideas on the chapter’s agenda include participating in activities to educate the community on ableism and partnering with campus tours so that chapter members can be paired with prospective students with disabilities who visit campus to speak with them about accessibility and accommodations.
“This organization is a space where every person is welcome and honored, regardless of who they are or what their disability is,” said Ewald. “Delta Alpha Pi reinforces the idea that we don’t allow our disability to define who we are or limit what we are capable of doing.”
The Zeta Phi chapter is currently accepting applications for membership for this semester now through Feb. 15. Applications can be dropped off at the Office of Accessibility Resources and Services in Suite 215 of Elliott University Center. To learn more and to obtain an application, find the Zeta Phi chapter on Spartan Connect or Facebook, or email the chapter at uncg.dapi@gmail.com.
Story by Alexandra McQueen, University Communications
Photography by Grant Evan Gilliard, University Communications
