Alpha Lambda Delta (ALD) and Phi Eta Sigma (PES) are national honor societies that recognize first-year students who earn at least a 3.5 GPA during their freshman year in college. Although they are separate national organizations, they function as ALDPES at IU Indianapolis and several other major universities.
An important dimension of ALDPES is the opportunity for service and leadership on campuses and in communities across the country. This honor society encourages superior academic achievement and a lifelong high standard of learning while helping students to recognize and develop meaningful goals for their unique roles in society.
History
Both organizations were founded at the University of Illinois—PES in 1923 and ALD in 1924. They are the oldest and original honor societies to recognize academic excellence in the first year of college. The IU Indianapolis (known as IUPUI at the time) chapters were officially chartered in 1985.
IU Indianapolis chapter
IU Indianapolis chapter officers have attended national leadership workshops and conventions every year and received numerous national scholarships. The chapter has been recognized as one of the top chapters in the country each year since 2003 (when the institution was known as IUPUI) and is also the largest student organization on campus. IU Indianapolis's chapter is known for its community service and participates in annual events with nonprofit organizations such as Indy Parks, Community Centers of Indianapolis, Ronald McDonald House, Animal Care and Control, St. Jude Children's Hospital, and United Way Day of Caring.
The chapter also holds many social events, ranging from ice skating and holiday parties to attending Indiana Pacers and Indianapolis Indians games.
Initiation
ALDPES conducts an annual initiation ceremony for new members and their families and friends in the Campus Center during the spring semester. Officers are chosen late in the spring semester each year and attend an officer transition retreat at the beginning of the fall semester. The organization provides an excellent opportunity to develop leadership skills, become connected on campus, and make lifelong friends.
Contact Lisa Ruch, IU Indianapolis Chapter Advisor