ODK continues to prosper

Giselle Cancio/Staff Writer 

Omicron Delta Kappa, the National Leadership Honor Society, was founded Dec. 3, 1914 at Washington and Lee University in Lexington, Virginia by 15 student and faculty leaders.

According to the ODK’s national website, the founders formulated the idea: that leadership of exceptional quality and versatility in college should be recognized, that representatives in all phases of college life should cooperate in worthwhile endeavors, and that outstanding students, faculty, and administrators should meet on a basis of mutual interest, understanding, and helpfulness.

“There are so many students that are involved in many things on campus while maintaining a good GPA and volunteering in the community,” Vanessa Martinez, Secretary of Omicron Delta Kappa at FIU, senior majoring in political science said. “They should be recognized for their efforts, which is why we have an FIU Circle of ODK.”

ODK was founded at FIU in Apr. 21, 1985 and has initiated over 500 individuals since.

ODK was the first college honor society of national scope to give recognition and honor for continuous leadership and service in extracurricular activities. It also encourages development of general campus citizenship and since it’s founding, Omicron Delta Kappa has initiated over 300,000 members nationwide.

The ODK idea or purpose is to recognize those who have attained a high standard of efficiency in collegiate activities and to inspire others to strive for the same attainment. The second part of the idea is to bring together the most representative students, in all phases of collegiate life, in order to help better the institution. The last part of the ODK idea is to bring together members of the faculty and student body that have a mutual interest in the success of the university, and in the growth of the community.

“We recognize achievement in scholarship, athletics,
campus/community service, social/religious activities, campus government, journalism, speech and the mass media,
and creative and performing arts,” Martinez said.

Criteria to get into the ODK Circle at FIU requires participation in at least two of the above mentioned. It’s not only about being a part of a club, but holding a leadership position in a club or organization as well. Students must have a 3.0 GPA as well as being in junior or senior standing.

If there are any questions on what is required of applicants, they should be directed tofiuodk@gmail.com. Applications are currently open and will close on Feb. 7. The application can be found on the FIU CLS website, leadserve.fiu.edu.

Different events omicron delta kappa put on include the annual leadership summit, a workshop series, and leadership panels.

“At the end of the day, we look for students who are involved and interested in making fiu Worlds Ahead. It’s an honor and privilege to be a part of ODK, and it’s something that is nationally recognized.” Martinez said.

giselle.cancio@fiusm.com