Established in 1911 and famously known to have had Albert Einstein as a member, Kappa Delta Pi is an honors society for all types of educators. Its aim is to further excellence in teaching through additional service opportunities and leadership. Members participate in fundraisers, volunteer work, and community outreach. They also receive recognition and awards for their involvement.
Here at FGCU, our chapter is called Omega Epsilon. It has been internationally recognized as one of the best chapters of the entire association for three years in a row, receiving the Achieving Excellence Chapter award. Kappa Delta Pi was also dubbed Organization of the Year at FGCU for the fall and spring semesters of 2008-2009. These impressive credentials represent the society well and demonstrate its effectiveness.
Student member Andy Delgado, a junior majoring in education, explained what the society is all about.
He said, “Kappa Delta Pi’s sole purpose is to embrace future educators through our organization regardless of what gender or nationality they are.”
The society recruits new members every semester, although they must be enrolled in the College of Education with a 3.0 GPA or higher. Currently, there are approximately 150 students in the society. Their main focus is leadership development through activities that benefit those around them.
Kappa Delta Pi’s community service work is extremely productive and encompassing. This includes volunteering at Eagle Expo, participating in a number of walks, and hosting the annual Dress for Success fashion show that teaches students how to dress appropriately for a job interview.
“The visit to the children’s hospital was extremely eye opening,” Delgado stated, speaking of a particular event the society took place in. “Just to make a sick child’s day with coloring books and goodies made my week.” Members also participate in fundraising at eateries like Foster’s Grille, Moe’s, and Sweet Tomatoes.
Dr. Elizabeth Elliott, the KDP facility advisor, is in her sixth year of management for the society. When asked about how Kappa Delta Pi helps propel students into a career in education and in what ways it aids its members, she openly shared her perspective about the benefits of this organization.
“When we do our fashion show, we invite principals to talk to our members about how to apply for a job,” Dr. Elliott said. The principals offer advice concerning the best way to go about sending in a resume and where they should look for open positions. Dr. Elliott also claimed that, “Principals recognize the importance of being in Kappa Delta Pi. They know [members of KDP] are the cream of the crop.” She finished by saying that, “Our students are the best.”
Kappa Delta Pi provides its members with unique opportunities to connect with those who hold power in the education world, and ample chances to assist others in their community. The society does offer certain scholarships and grants based on need as well, and it provides viable resources for locating and securing jobs.
If you are majoring in education, it is highly recommended that you strive to become involved with Kappa Delta Pi, or at least ask questions about how they can help you succeed in your future career. Remember: “Teaching is the one profession that creates all other professions,” so do not let it be overlooked in our generation.
KDP recruits new members every semester, so check it out and join soon.