This past summer, Gamma Beta Phi leadership attended a National Summer Planning Meeting where they were awarded the Exemplary Award, honoring them for the highest number of points from service projects both nationally and internationally.
There is only one award given out in the country for this category. The organization receives points for service projects, number of members held and attendance rates. The chapter has an 86 percent attendance rate with 456 members.
“I believe in this organization,” said Jackie Dale Thomas, advisor of Gamma Beta Phi. “What they do is so magnificent. The biggest part of Gamma Beta Phi is the service component.”
For Gamma Beta Phi, Homecoming is one of their biggest projects. As part of their plans for the year, they will host a food drive during Homecoming for the Tangi Food Pantry, a local food distribution center for the needy and give out “mocktails” to the students to encourage them not to drink alcohol.
Gamma Beta Phi is also very active during the holiday season. They collect stocking stuffers for children, bring presents to residents of local nursing homes, who may not have family visitors and collect coats for Pat’s Coats for Kids.
According to the information provided on the Gamma Beta Phi Web site, the three main components of the organization are scholarship, character and service. The society was founded in 1964 and over the years, has grown to have chapters all across the nation. Gamma Beta Phi prides itself upon being both an honor society and service organization.
“It’s a feel-good organization,” said nursing junior Jamie Mashburn, who received the Most Outstanding Member Award.
Mashburn participated in more events than were required, despite the roadblock of a recent knee surgery, as well as physical therapy appointments. According to Mashburn, she likes being involved in Gamma Beta Phi because she is constantly meeting new people and helping the community.
Every year, Gamma Beta Phi attends a meeting where they discuss plans and budgeting along with a schedule for the October convention.
Christy Hutchison, president of Gamma Beta Phi, explained receiving the Exemplary Award as recognizing those chapters who go above and beyond what is required, since the award is only given to one chapter. The award marks the amount of service that goes into receiving the honors.
“The chapter is one active group,” said Thomas. “Members constantly find opportunities for new ways to serve.”
For additional information, go to the official Gamma Beta Phi website or contact the chapter at 985-549-2233.