This semester, Stevenson University and the Athletic Department will induct its first class of members into the school’s new Chi Alpha Sigma Honors Society chapter. The nationally renowned organization, established in 1996 by DePauw University head football coach Nick Mourouzis, recognizes collegiate athletes who excel both academically and athletically. SU in particular will induct 150 student-athletes from almost every major and sport into this inaugural class, joining a handful of other colleges and universities in the society’s Omicron Chapter.

Chip Rouse, Stevenson’s Athletics Academic Coach and advisor for Chi Alpha Sigma, was excited to bring this chapter to SU. She explained that the chapter represents a larger effort to support Athletics Director, Brett Adams, in finding ways to bring “honor and pride to our student-athletes who are good students.” The upcoming inaugural induction, Rouse added, therefore provides “a space where students who devote an enormous amount of time to practice and play can also be rewarded for their academics.”

Indeed, it’s no small feat to make Chi Alpha Sigma’s cut. To qualify, hopefuls must be a college junior or senior, earn a 3.4 cumulative grade point average or higher, excel in their varsity sport, and be in good standing with the university and their coaches. 

Emily Pellini, a junior at SU and women’s indoor and beach volleyball player, is co-president of Stevenson’s inaugural Chi Alpha Sigma class, alongside Ryan Patrick, who is also a junior at SU and a member of the men’s ice hockey team. “There are so many deserving student-athletes that work hard in the gym and in the classroom,” Pellini said, “so it means a lot to be recognized as one of them.” She added that, through her experience as a leader and member of the society, she hopes to foster better relationships with athletes and coaches within the chapter and to connect with members outside her sport. 

As for Chip Rouse’s future Chi Alpha Sigma plans, she would like to engage the SU chapter in an annual service project every fall where members can participate and give back to their community. 

Presently, there is no date and time yet scheduled for this spring’s induction; it will likely occur virtually in April. Chi Alpha Sigma updates, as well as society news and induction qualification information, can be found here.