Courtesy of Lyndsey Devaney
Kappa Tau Chapter of the Alpha Omicron Pi founded on campus in 1963, is an organization that works in the field of arthritis with its special concentration on juvenile arthritis. The organization recently received an international recognition through an award named after the founder, Jessie Wallace Hughan.
The organization that currently has 85 members received the award at the “Alpha Omicron Pi International Convention” held at Washington Marriott Wardman Park in Washington D.C. held from June 28 to July 2.
According to President of Kappa Tau Chapter and junior elementary education major Lyndsey Devaney, JWH is given to the sorority with the most outstanding service to its college or community and fulfillment of obligations to Alpha Omicron Pi. She described the feeling of being awarded.
“It was amazing,” said Devaney. “The experience was absolutely phenomenal and it was really humbling for us. We didn’t expect it.”
Approximately 20 people participated in the convention including the members of the organization and representatives from campus like Assistant Director for the Office of Student Engagement Kyle Gallagher, Interim Director for the Office of Student Engagement Angela James, Vice President for the Division of Student Affairs Dr. Eric Summers and other professors.
Alongside visiting places in the Washington D.C. area, the team also got an opportunity to learn about ways of personal growth.
“We had a great time in Washington D.C.,” said Devaney. “We were able to go see the monuments. We also participated in different educational tracks. We had some on topics like time management, calendar programming, health and life style. There were things that helped us not only as members of our organization but also helped us develop as people throughout our actual career. It was a great experience.”
Junior elementary education major Jade Sheets was not expecting the team to receive the award. She feels the award reflected the hard work and dedication that the chapter puts for its betterment.
“After winning this award, we were asked ‘What’s next for Kappa Tau Chapter?’ and it has left an imprint on us ever since,” said Sheets. “We are determined to continue exceeding the expectations and inspiring ambition. This award is the highest honor, and our founders would be so proud of the ladies that have succeeded them.”
Devaney believes that the chapter seeks for its betterment in the days to come.
“We are always looking for ways to improve as a chapter and to improve our relations with the campus and community through service,” said Devaney. “We are always looking for room for improvement. And, I was really proud to represent the chapter because I feel like they never look at themselves and congratulate them for the achievement they have accomplished. They are always looking towards the betterment of the chapter and how we can help other people. It only makes us want to further the development of our chapter.”
The organization had its celebration for the achievement on March 10 in Ponchatoula, where several alumni of the organization participated.
During her presidency, Devaney aims to help other members grow personally achieving one of many goals for the sorority on campus.
“My main goal is not only for the chapter to excel but for each individual person to realize their fullest potential and for them to flourish,” said Devaney.
