Bricks for Brilliance

Bricks with engraved names and dates, walked over every day–perhaps a legacy forgotten, but for most a prestigious honor to receive. Delta Kappa Honor Society is one of Vanguard’s most prized time-honored traditions. Since it was instituted in 1960, the honor recognizes outstanding students who excel in their Christian lifestyles, those who have served their peers beyond expectation and have represented the university proudly.

Requirements for the honor range from a 2.5 grade point average, participation in leadership, spiritual formation, student activities or an academic club as well as community service. Students are nominated by faculty and staff and are then sent applications. The applications are reviewed by Delta Kappa committee members as well as staff members from Student Life, and from there the top 15 students are considered for their merits by the honor committee.

Previously, the winners of the Delta Kappa were announced at the Junior Senior Banquet. This year, however, there will be a luncheon in their honor following the University Awards Chapel. Judy Hamilton is a Registrar employee who also oversees much of the Delta Kappa process and its history.

“It is our hope that in the future even more will be done to honor those students who are inducted into Delta Kappa. We feel so blessed to have students at Vanguard giving of themselves in so many ways,” Hamilton said.

Among a few of the nominees this year is senior Heather Hernandez, an active student in leadership since her freshman year, who has worked to organize President Taylor’s inauguration as well as the 90 days of Vanguard.

“Being nominated for Delta Kappa was a very big honor for me. This is something I have looked forward to since my freshman year and I am humbled that I was considered by the faculty and staff. The idea of Delta Kappa is a way to honor the students who have spent four years in service to the university. I love the idea of thinking that I have the possibility to have my name be a part of this university for years to come,” Hernandez said.

The nominated students for 2011 represent some of Vanguard’s most distinguished, hard-working and committed across the entire senior class.

“It’s going to be tough, as there are so many outstanding nominees,” Hamilton said.

The luncheon to honor the new members is scheduled for April 19. Only President Taylor, the Delta Kappa committee and the inductees will be a part of the festivities.