RADFORD – After a five-year hiatus, as of April 10, 2023, Radford University again has a circle of Omicron Delta Kappa (ODK). During a ceremony in the Bonnie Auditorium at the Hurlburt Student Center on campus, 31 students were inducted into the revitalized student organization.
Dr. Jean Mistele, director of the Citizen Leader Program and professor in the mathematics and statistics department led efforts to restart the ODK circle at Radford University (RU). Her efforts were supported by team members Dr. Timothy Reed, vice president of membership and operations at ODK headquarters, Dr. Pamela Frasier, professor in the health and human performance department, Dr. Chapman Rackaway, chair and professor in the political science department, and Jacob May, Circle assistant and undergraduate student at Radford University.
Mistele, Frasier and Rackaway were also inducted into Omicron Delta Kappa per national requirements. Mistele serves as Circle coordinator, and Frasier and Rackaway serve as faculty advisors.
Local inductees include: Kristen Renee Edwards, of Christiansburg; Abigail Elaine Ridpath, of Radford; and Allison Noelle Jones, of Shawsville.
The unique mission of ODK is to recognize and encourage collaboration among collegiate leaders. The Society seeks to identify, celebrate, and engage collegiate and community leaders from different backgrounds, perspectives, and generations. Members enjoy scholarship opportunities, leadership development programs, access to a national network, and more.
The eligibility requirements for ODK include: two semesters (one year) as a full-time student at Radford University; sophomore, junior, or senior standing; a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.4 (sophomores), 3.5 (juniors), or 3.6 (seniors); exemplary character as evident by the submission of a resume and character references; and achievement of special distinction in leadership.
