Delta Epsilon Sigma (ΔΕΣ) is an American scholastic honor society that was established for students of Catholic universities and colleges. It was established at Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa in 1939. Delta Epsilon Sigma has 119 chapters across the United States and nearly 39,000 members.

Delta Epsilon Sigma
ΔΕΣ
The Society's Symbol
Founded1939; 85 years ago (1939)
TypeHonor society
AffiliationACHS
StatusActive
EmphasisRoman Catholic
ScopeNational
Colors  Gold and   Maroon
PublicationDelta Epsilon Sigma Journal
Chapters119
Members38,848 lifetime
Headquartersc/o Neumann University
Arts & Sciences BACH 305
One Neumann Drive

Ashton, Pennsylvania 19014
United States
Websitewww.deltaepsilonsigma.org

History

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In October 1938, Reverend E. A. Fitzgerald, dean of studies at at Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa, surveyed his peers to see if there was interest in establishing a scholastic honor society for students at Catholic universities and colleges.[1] He presented his findings to the College and University Department of the National Catholic Education Association (N.C.E.A.) in 1939.[1] This led to the creation of a 32 member Committee of Founders, with Fitzgerald as the chair.[1]

The committee selected the name Delta Epsilon Sigma and created a motto, insignia and constitution.[1] This work was shared with all Catholic colleges and universities before a Constitutional Convention in Kansas City on March 29, 1940.[1] During this convention, a provisional constitution was adopted and 32 chapters of Delta Epsilon Sigma were chartered.[1] Delta Epsilon Sigma was established as a national scholastic honor society for students at Catholic universities and colleges.[2][3] Fitzgerald was selected as its national secretar-treasurer.[3]

In 1947, the society began publishing the Delta Epsilon Sigma Bulletin, now the Delta Epsilon Sigma Journal.[1][4] It changed its constitution, bylaws and induction riturals on May 28, 1976.

As of 2024, Delta Epsilon Sigma has 119 chapters across the United States and has more 38,848 members.[5][1] Its national headquarters is in Ashton, Pennsylvania.

Symbols

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Delta Epsilon Sigma's colors are gold and maroon.[6][7] Its membership badge is a key.

Membership

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Membership is by invitation sent from the college or university's chapter. Undergraduate students must be ranked in the top twenty percent of their class and have completed at least half of the credit requirements for their baccalaureate degree.[8] Graduate students must also have a minimum GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale and have completed at least half of the credits for their degree. Individual chapters can set more stringent GPA requirements. Candidates must also have a record of dedication to intellectual activity and community service.[9]

Chapters

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The chapters of Delta Epsilon Sigma are named for letters of the Greek alphabet, in charter date order.[4]

References

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  1. ^ a b c d e f g h "About". Delta Epsilon Sigma. Retrieved 2024-09-10.
  2. ^ "Delta Epsilon Sigma". The Telegraph. May 9, 1985. Retrieved 20 December 2009.
  3. ^ a b "Delta Epsilon Sigma Plans First Chapter In Maine At Portland". Lewiston Daily Sun. November 26, 1949. Retrieved 20 December 2009.
  4. ^ a b "Constitution". Delta Epsilon Sigma. Retrieved 2024-09-10.
  5. ^ "Chapters". Delta Epsilon Sigma. Retrieved 2024-09-10.
  6. ^ "DES Official Honorcord | Delta Epsilon Sigma Online Store". Award Concepts. Retrieved September 10, 2024.
  7. ^ "Honor Society Cord Colors | College and University". Senior Class Graduation Products. 2024-07-29. Retrieved 2024-09-10.
  8. ^ "FAQ – Delta Epsilon Sigma". Retrieved 2021-10-24.
  9. ^ "Bylaws". Delta Epsilon Sigma. Retrieved 2024-09-10.
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