Sigma Tau Delta
In 1924, Sigma Tau Delta was formed as an outgrowth of the Dakota Wesleyan English Club. Judson Q. Owen, its sponsor, established the purpose, the insignia, the Greek letters, and the English words (Sincerity, Truth, Design) assigned to them, and the official colors of cardinal and black. He announced on May 28, 1924, that the society was national English departments in several universities having formed chapters. Professor Owen became the first Executive Secretary and Editor of the society's literary magazine, The Rectangle. He held these positions until his death in 1969.
P. C. Somerville served as president from 1924 until 1931. In 1931, Dr. Frederick Fadner became president, holding the title until 1954. Dr. Herbert L. Hughes succeeded him in 1954, serving until the Society reorganized in 1970. That vigorous reorganization resulted in a revised Constitution, an expanded national board, and a scheduling of national conventions in even-numbered years. Dr. Edwin Stockton, Jr., served as the National President from 1970 to 1987. Professor Isabel Sparks served as president from 1987 to 1984. Professor Elaine Hughes served as president from 1994 to 1998. In 1998, Helen Lojek was elected president of Sigma Tau Delta. The Society became international in 1988. Currently, Bob Halli of the University of Alabama is the international president.
Organization Facts
Motto: "Sincerity, Truth, Design"
Colors: Cardinal and Black
Membership Qualifications: English or English
Education Major
GPA of 3.0 overall on a 4.0 scale
GPA of 3.0 in all English classes
Minimum of 6 hours of English above Freshman level
Pledge: I shall endeavor to advance the study of the chief
literary masterpieces, to encourage worthwile reading, to promote the mastery
of written expression, and to foster a spirit of fellowship among those
who specialize in the study of the English language and of literature ever
keeping in mind our international motto: Sincerity, Truth, Design.
Pi Zeta Chapter
The McNeese State University chapter of Sigma Tau Delta, Pi Zeta, was
founded in 1956 and was reactivated in 1988.
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