Î÷¹ÏÊÓÆµ College’s chapter of (ALD), the national honor society that recognizes first-year academic success, has been awarded the prestigious Order of the Torch for the 2024–25 academic year. This award, established in 1989, honors the most outstanding chapters in the country and is based on a judged submission of the chapter’s activities from the past year.
Î÷¹ÏÊÓÆµ’s submission stood out for its vibrant programming, consistent communication, and strong campus presence. The award-winning chapter was led by a dedicated team of student leaders, including Logan Thomas ’27, President; Gretchen Davis ’27, Vice President; Sarah McMahon ’27, Secretary; Lauren Squibb ’27, Treasurer; AnnMarie Sullivan ’27, Historian; Alyssa Szymaszek ’27, Communications Chair; Liam Carter Mahar ’27, Scholarships Chair; Avery Reicher ’27 and Brady Melvin ’27, Service Chairs; and Brooklyn Pallarino ’27, Social Chair. The chapter is advised by Dan Chapman, Director of Student Transitions and Family Programs, who praised the group’s creativity and commitment.
“This award is a testament to the passion and drive of our student leaders,” said Chapman. “They’ve created a community rooted in academic excellence and genuine support, and I’m incredibly proud of all they’ve accomplished.”
At the heart of Alpha Lambda Delta is a mission to encourage superior academic achievement, promote intelligent living and a continued high standard of learning, and assist students in recognizing and developing meaningful goals for their unique roles in society. The Î÷¹ÏÊÓÆµ chapter exemplified this mission through initiatives that not only celebrated scholastic success but also fostered leadership, service, and connection.
The Order of the Torch distinction places Î÷¹ÏÊÓÆµ’s chapter in elite company alongside those at Dickinson College, Kent State University, Spelman College, and the University of Massachusetts Boston.
“We sincerely appreciate the work it takes to achieve the Order of the Torch award. The students from these winning institutions demonstrated high-quality programming, outstanding communication across campus and in their communities, and overall excellence,” said Eileen Merberg, Executive Director of Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society.
Recognizing the many demands today’s students face—including academics, work, family, service, and leadership—Merberg added: “It is truly impressive what the winning chapters were able to accomplish this past year. These chapters were able to stay engaged and continue the important work of supporting student success.”