Overview of Specific Honor Societies

Omicron Delta Kappa (ODK) is a national leadership honor society that recognizes and encourages superior scholarship, leadership, and character. Founded in 1914 at Washington and Lee University, ODK has since expanded to over 300 chapters across the United States.

To be eligible for membership, students must be in the top 35% of their class and demonstrate leadership in at least one of five areas: scholarship, athletics, campus or community service, journalism, or creative and performing arts. Faculty, staff, and alumni who have achieved distinction in their fields may also be invited to join.

ODK’s history is rooted in the early 20th century, a time when college fraternities and sororities were becoming increasingly popular. However, ODK sought to distinguish itself from these organizations by focusing on leadership and character rather than social activities. The society’s founders believed that leadership was not just about holding positions of authority, but also about serving others and making a positive impact on society.

Over the years, ODK has faced criticism for perpetuating social injustice and systemic bias. Like many organizations in the early 20th century, ODK was initially limited to white male students. It wasn’t until the 1970s that women and people of color were allowed to join. Even then, some chapters continued to discriminate against these groups, leading to protests and calls for reform.

Despite these challenges, ODK has continued to evolve and adapt to changing times. In recent years, the society has focused on promoting diversity and inclusion, with many chapters actively recruiting members from underrepresented groups.

Here is a timeline of major events in ODK’s history:

1914: Omicron Delta Kappa is founded at Washington and Lee University.

1924: ODK establishes its first national office in Lexington, Virginia.

1940s-1950s: ODK expands rapidly, with dozens of new chapters established across the country.

1960s: ODK faces criticism for its lack of diversity and inclusion. Some chapters begin to admit women and people of color, while others resist.

1970s: ODK officially opens membership to women and people of color. Some chapters continue to discriminate, leading to protests and calls for reform.

1980s-1990s: ODK continues to grow and expand, with new chapters established at colleges and universities across the country.

2000s-present: ODK focuses on promoting diversity and inclusion, with many chapters actively recruiting members from underrepresented groups. The society also expands its focus to include issues such as sustainability and social justice.

While ODK has faced criticism for its history of discrimination, the society has taken steps to address these issues and promote diversity and inclusion. Today, ODK remains a respected organization that recognizes and encourages leadership and character in college students and beyond.