Illinois State University’s Eta Upsilon chapter of Sigma Delta Pi, the National Collegiate Hispanic Honor Society, has been named an Honor Chapter for its exceptional activities in 2018-2019.

This is an award that was bestowed on only 16 chapters nationwide in 2019. This is the eighth consecutive year that ISU enjoys this distinction, and because the chapter maintained Honor Chapter status for each year of the 2016-2019 triennium, it also received the prestigious Octavio Paz Award.

Professor Angela Bailey de las Heras, ISU’s long-standing chapter advisor, was instrumental in earning these national honors, and was consequently awarded the national José Martel Award, which is presented every three years to an outstanding chapter advisor who has served in this role at least five consecutive years, with an induction ceremony yearly.

Each summer, the 625 chapters of Sigma Delta Pi nationwide are asked to submit an annual report detailing their numerous activities and projects from the academic year. Based on these reports, the National Executive Committee chooses approximately 10-15 Honor Chapters annually. This recognition is based upon the caliber of chapter projects that reflect the Sigma Delta Pi mission of honoring excellence in the study of the Spanish language, contributing to cultural understanding and upholding the goals of the society.

Those interested to know more about ISU Chapter can contact Chapter Advisor Angela Bailey de las Heras.

For additional information, contact Sigma Delta Pi’s Executive Director Mark P. Del Mastro.