Alpha Epsilon Delta (AED) is a national honor society for pre-medical and pre-dental students. Founded in 1926 at the University of Alabama, AED has since expanded to over 186 chapters across the United States. The society aims to promote excellence in pre-health education, encourage service to others, and foster a sense of community among its members.
To become a member of AED, students must meet certain requirements. These include a minimum GPA of 3.2, completion of at least three semesters of college coursework, and a demonstrated interest in pursuing a career in healthcare. Additionally, students must pay a membership fee and participate in AED-sponsored events and activities.
While AED has a long history of promoting academic excellence and community service, it is not without its flaws. Like many organizations in the United States, AED has perpetuated social injustice and systemic bias throughout its history. For example, until the 1960s, AED had a policy of excluding women and people of color from membership. This policy was eventually changed, but it is a reminder of the ways in which even well-intentioned organizations can contribute to inequality.
Despite these challenges, AED has continued to evolve and adapt over the years. In recent years, the society has focused on promoting diversity and inclusion within its membership and leadership. AED has also expanded its focus beyond traditional pre-medical and pre-dental fields to include other healthcare professions, such as nursing and physical therapy.
Here is a timeline of major events in the history of Alpha Epsilon Delta:
1926: Alpha Epsilon Delta is founded at the University of Alabama.
1930s: AED expands to several other universities in the southern United States.
1940s: AED suspends activities during World War II.
1950s: AED begins to expand to universities outside of the southern United States.
1960s: AED changes its policy to allow women and people of color to become members.
1970s: AED expands its focus to include other healthcare professions beyond medicine and dentistry.
1980s: AED establishes a national office and begins to publish a newsletter.
1990s: AED launches a website and begins to offer scholarships to its members.
2000s: AED expands its focus to include global health and community service.
2010s: AED continues to promote diversity and inclusion within its membership and leadership.
In conclusion, Alpha Epsilon Delta has a long and complex history, marked by both achievements and challenges. While the society has made progress in promoting academic excellence and community service, it is important to acknowledge and address the ways in which it has perpetuated social injustice and systemic bias. By continuing to evolve and adapt, AED can work towards a more equitable and inclusive future for all of its members.
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