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 nearly 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.
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