Concordia students inducted to English and communication honor societies

On Sunday, April 3, Concordia University, Nebraska’s chapters of Sigma Tau Delta, an international English honor society, and of Pi Kappa Delta, a communication and forensics honor society, held a joint induction ceremony and installation of officers. The new members were selected for their scholarship and service. 

Founded in 1924, Sigma Tau Delta has over 775 active chapters. Its purpose is to confer distinction upon students of the English language and literature in undergraduate, graduate, and professional studies. Concordia’s chapter of Sigma Tau Delta has existed since 1983. The group offers its members several professional and academic opportunities, including access to internships and scholarships.

At Concordia the group is responsible for Potpourri, a literary magazine. Members choose, edit and publish student entries. "Having a hand in this process is not only something in which to take pride as a Sigma Tau Delta member, but it also allows students to recognize excellence in the writing of  peers at a local level," said advisor Laurie Zum Hofe, assistant professor of English.  

Concordia’s Sigma Tau Delta inductees this year:

Emily Barz, Junior, Dubuque, Iowa

Sara Holle, Senior, Marysville, Kan.

Allison Mellick, Junior, Omaha, Neb.

Sara Schultz, Senior, Wamego, Kan.

Sara Sprague, Junior, St. Louis, Mo.

Alicia Wosepka, Junior, Ackley, Iowa

Pi Kappa Delta is the oldest national collegiate forensic organization, with chapters located on more than 200 colleges and universities. Concordia's chapter was started to recognize students in speech and debate and offer them options for service and fellowship.

“The goal is to promote ethical, fair and honest communication and competition, learning that words are powerful and those who use them have a great deal of responsibility to use them wisely,” said advisor Dr. Renea Gernant.

This year’s Pi Kappa Delta inductees at Concordia:

Kendra Freudenburg, Junior, Madison, Neb.

Ariel Harris, Junior, Valley Center, Calif.

Emily Hemphill, Freshman, Utica, Neb.

Stephanie Lund, Junior, Parker, Colo.

Daniel Miller, Sophomore, West Point, Neb.

LeAnn Miller, Sophomore, Battle Creek, Neb.

Christopher Schneider, Sophomore, Omaha, Neb.

Anna Schuett, Junior, Grand Island, Neb.

Sarah Sprague, Junior, St. Louis, Mo.

Aaron Wendorff, Freshman, Winthrop, Minn.

Alicia Wosepka, Junior, Ackley, Iowa

In addition to the induction of new members, the two organizations announced officers for next year.

Sigma Tau Delta:

President: Heidi Niedfeldt, Senior, Stella, Neb.

Secretary: Stephanie Lund, Junior, Parker, Colo.

Pi Kappa Delta:      

President: Heather Niedfeldt, Senior, Stella, Neb.

Vice president: Hannah Kroonblawd, Senior, Eagan, Minn.

Secretary: Heidi Niedfeldt, Senior, Stella, Neb.

Historian: Rebecca McCracken, Junior, O’Fallon, Mo.