What is ODK?
Purpose (Adapted from Omicron Delta Kappa National Homepage)
Omicron Delta Kappa was created to recognize those who have attained a high standard of efficiency in collegiate activities and to inspire others to strive for conspicuous attainments along similar lines. It was intended to bring together the most representative students in all phases of collegiate life and thus to create an organization that will help to mold the sentiment of the institution on questions of local and intercollegiate interest. ODK brings together members of the faculty and student body of the institution, as well as other Omicron Delta Kappa members, on a basis of mutual interest and understanding. Omicron Delta Kappa recognizes and encourages achievement in scholarship; athletics; campus or community service, social and religious activities, and campus government; journalism, speech, and the mass media; creative and performing arts. Membership is based on exemplary character, responsible leadership and service in campus or community life, superior scholarship, genuine fellowship, and consecration to democratic ideals. Membership in Omicron Delta Kappa is awarded to undergraduate junior and senior students, to students of graduate and professional schools and colleges of the institution, to members of the faculty and administration, and to alumni. Election to membership is on the basis of merit, is irrespective of a person’s affiliation with other organizations, and is without solicitation or propaganda, such as rushing or social pressure, to insure acceptance of the invitation to membership. Membership is as much an obligation and responsibility in citizenship as it is a mark of highest distinction and honor.
A Former Student’s Vision
St. Lawrence University’s chapter is comprised of students and faculty who have all demonstrated leadership in the five necessary areas: Scholarship; Athletics; Campus/ Community Service, Social/Religious Activities, and Campus Government; Journalism, Speech and the Mass Media; and Creative and Performing Arts. ODK members are spread across numerous clubs, organizations, departments and teams on campus. The one thing that binds together the students and faculty is leadership, but what is leadership? As an organization, we have pondered this question and have come up with many meanings for the word. Leadership is a motivation for others. Good leadership empowers other to open up, gain confidence, and mobilize. Good leadership is not the imposition of beliefs but rather it is the act of providing direction to attain ones own beliefs. Successful leadership cultivates growth and gives back to the community and to those who have shaped them. We, as the ODK honorary, uphold this definition of leadership. The members of ODK are leaders on this campus, whether it is on or off the playing field, in or out of the classroom or in front of or in back of an audience. Leadership is not just a held position, something you can write on a resume; it is fostering action and making things happen.
Written by Erin Mellow, Class of 2007