First-generation students finally have an honor society to call their own as the Alpha Alpha Alpha chapter at The Ohio State University was born Wednesday.
During the ceremony at Hale Hall, eight students who will serve as the organization's first set of officers were inducted into the fledging organization. Emily Johnson, the chapter's new president, spoke over video link from Prague where she is studying abroad. The sociology major told the audience that first-generation students must overcome obstacles like a lack of knowledge in institutional processes as well as increased risk of food insecurity and homelessness.
“First Gens have to work harder to accomplish what non-first gen students do,” said Johnson, a low-income student from the village of Chesapeake along the Ohio River. “I hope that Tri-Alpha gives First Gens a place to stand and take pride in their status as First Gen.”
Dr. James L. Moore III, the chapter's advisor who serves as the vice provost for diversity and inclusion at Ohio State, said the Tri-Alpha organization will grow to become a prestigious honor and source of support for first-generation students. “You are a star in your families and communities, lighting the way forward for others to follow your lead into higher education,” he said. To be eligible for the honor society, First Generation college students must hold at least a 3.2 GPA and have completed 30 credit hours.
While the group's first induction ceremony won't take place until this coming fall, there was a surprise honorary induction as Sly Worthy, a graduate student who founded the Buckeyes First student organization for first-generation students in 2019, was ceremonious tapped. “I'm excited to pass the torch. I'm excited for Tri-Alpha,” said the Lorain native who will graduate this spring with a master's degree in social work. “Anything that helps first-generation college students be more visible I'm behind it.”
Along with Johnson, those inducted on Wednesday were Julius McIntyre, vice president; Chelsea Glaspell, secretary; Kelsie Hegemeyer, treasurer; Yondris Ferguson, historian; Cameron King, vice president for student outreach; Emmanuel Long, director of operations; and Kyle Kurz, director of events.
There are 122 other Tri Alpha chapters in 35 states.