Delta Alpha Pi is in its first year of operation at Southeastern. It was founded at Southeastern in the fall of 2010.

 Delta Alpha Pi is an international honor society that aims towards recognizing those students with disabilities for the academic achievements rather than what they are stereotypically recognized for.

For undergraduate students to qualify to be able to become a member of Delta Alpha Pi, they must present the proper documentation for their disability, have at least a 3.14 GPA and have gained at least 24 credit hours.

The Office of Disability Services is proud to have Delta Alpha Pi as a part of Southeastern since they are able to inform others of those with disabilities and the things they can accomplish.

The organization is also an excellent way for students with disabilities to develop leadership skills and to learn to represent themselves rather than have others automatically assume responsibilities for them.

“It’s a great opportunity for our students to get involved,” said Leigh Smith-Vaniz, coordinator of Disability Services, “and to showcase their abilities rather than their disabilities.”

As a part of Disability Awareness Week, the Office of Disability Services along with Delta Alpha Pi held a jambalaya sale on Tuesday, Feb. 22 in the Student Union Mall. The meals were supplied by Jambalaya N’ Company, which is located across from Southeastern campus.

Each plate included jambalaya, white beans and bread. Tickets for each plate were pre-sold at the price of $7, and $4 of the profit from every plate sold went to scholarship members of Delta Alpha Pi.  Over $600 was raised for the Delta Alpha Pi scholarships from the jambalaya sale.

Students with disabilities have to worry about the financial burden of college tuition along with the large amount of expenses they may have as a result of their disability. The purpose of the jambalaya sale was to be able to alleviate some of that financial burden from those who qualify to be a member of Delta Alpha Pi.

“Some people with disabilities have medical bills or other extra expenses and don’t have the money to pay dues in clubs like ours,” said Vice President of Delta Alpha Pi Victoria Odom. “We’re just trying to help those who make the grades and do all the hard work be able to afford the recognition they deserve.”

While the sale was held to help raise money for scholarships for current and potential members, it was also held to shatter the stereotype of students with disabilities.

 “Too often we are recognized as that boy that asks too many questions in class, that girl who walks funny or that person that just has to sit in the front desk and keeps to themselves,” said President of Delta Alpha Pi Johnny Braud. “Although people may look at us a little strange sometimes, when we come together as an organization, everyone can see how smart, funny and sociable we are and in that moment we are recognized for our ability not our disability. That’s what we are about.”