What started as a small group of five future educators has grown into an award-winning community within the University of Cincinnati's (UC) College of Education, Criminal Justice, Human Services, and Information Technology (CECH).
UC's Zeta chapter of Kappa Delta Pi (KDP), a national honor society and professional association for educators, was recently recognized with the Phoenix Award for chapter improvement-an honor that highlights the organization's rapid growth and impact.
Under the leadership of president and CECH ambassador Erika Flynn, the chapter expanded from just five members to 33 in one year.
Beyond community-building, the chapter has prioritized community service. One of its signature initiatives is a donation drive supporting Crayons and Beyond, a Cincinnati-based organization that provides classroom supplies to teachers.
Members collect donations across campus and from their personal networks, ensuring local educators have the resources they need-especially during critical times of the school year.
"This is really important to me because we're giving back to our future and helping set schools up for success," Flynn says.
Faculty advisors say the chapter's growth reflects a deeper connection between leadership, research and real-world impact.
"I've been incredibly fortunate to mentor Erika Flynn, Ellie Glover and Halle Haigis," says associate professor Kim McCormick. "Kappa Delta Pi provides an incredible outlet for extending research, leadership and professional growth, and I truly believe the best is yet to come."
Featured image at top: Members of the Kappa Delta Pi Zeta chapter display their Phoenix Award for Oustanding Chapter Growth. Photo/Provided
