History of ASL

In the winter of 1945-46, Dr. Rollin B. Posey, Dean of University College at Northwestern University, realized that a measure of encouragement and recognition accorded an evening student's scholastic achievement at an early stage of his/her program could provide the thrust of desire to achieve his/her educational objectives. Dr. Posey founded a society, Alpha Sigma Lambda, to honor those dedicated adult students who, while adroitly handling their life responsibilities, achieve and maintain high scholastic standards.

Today there are over 300 chartered chapters throughout the United States. The camaraderie, advantages and benefits of Alpha Sigma Lambda are its own best incentive for being. The Society not only brings together outstanding students and faculty, but also offers each individual an exposure to interests other than his/her own.

For the nontraditional student, the Society stands as an inspiration for continuing scholastic growth, and is a builder of pride through recognition. For the chapter institution, the Society serves as a vehicle for imparting appreciation for adult students' academic achievements and contributions. Also, the Society has been found to aid immensely in the recruitment and retention of nontraditional/adult students.

To this day Alpha Sigma Lambda is not only the oldest, but also the largest, chapter-based honor society for full- and part-time students.

Chapter History

"First in Scholarship
and Leadership"

In the spring of 2006, R. William Jacobs II, MHR, an academic advisor in the College of Liberal Studies at the University of Oklahoma visited with his colleagues to discuss the availability of national honor societies specifically for their adult students. There were several honor societies for traditional students which were considered; however, Mr. Jacobs' focus centered on the accomplishments of the adult student and their unique ability to balance family, community, and work obligations. After meticulous research, he determined that it was vital to seek out an honor society that encompassed prestige, tradition, and possessed a large chapter base. Alpha Sigma Lambda National Honor Society was selected to recognize the scholastic achievement of both full- & part time adult students at the University of Oklahoma. The initiation of fifteen charter members took place during the inaugural induction ceremony in the fall of 2006.

Contact

Malissa McCracken, M.Ed.
Advisor, Upsilon Omicron Chapter
Phone: 405-325-1061
Fax: 405-325-7132

University of Oklahoma
Center for Student Life, OMU
900 Asp Avenue, Suite 370 Box 118
Norman, OK 73019

Links

The College of Liberal Studies

The University of Oklahoma

Alpha Sigma Lambda National