Veteran, Military Students Inducted into Honor Society

Aiken, SC (04/27/2018) — The University of South Carolina Aiken's chapter of Pi Alpha Sigma inducted its newest members, just a month before the students graduate May 9.

Pi Alpha Sigma is an honor society that recognizes the academic achievements of veterans and military students. Specifically, it was established to assist militarily connected students in their academic pursuits, recognize outstanding academic achievement, and cultivate a stronger sense of community.

"The mission of Pi Alpha Sigma is to recognize outstanding success in academia by veteran, military, and military family students who embody our core values of dedication, understanding, and community," said Robert Murphy, U.S. Marine Corps veteran and director of the USC Aiken Office of Veteran and Military Student Success.

"The Greek letters are representative of the phrase by which we identify ourselves: 'Tomorrow Warriors of Wisdom.'"

To be considered for membership in the organization, students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Jack Torres, a U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Air Force Veteran who works at Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations Aiken Off-Road Tire plant as a maintenance supervisor, was the guest speaker for the induction ceremony. Several community supporters of the VMSS, also attended.

Dr. Sandra Jordan, chancellor praised the efforts of the Office of Veteran and Military Student Success for its commitment to ensuring the continued success of these students.

"I credit the VMSS team for creating a culture where all are welcome, where the "troops" support one another; encourage one another during the tough battles, whether inside or outside the classroom; and who celebrate the victories - like a good grade on an exam or presentation - and certainly, graduation.

"Success is at the heart of everything the Office of Veteran and Military Student Success does," she said.

Since the university first opened the Veteran and Military Student Success Center five years ago, this student segment has grown exponentially.

In fact, this academic year, more than 13% -- or almost 430 students -- of the USC Aiken student body is made up of veteran and military students.

This represents an 18.48% overall enrollment increase from this same time last year.

That's much higher than the national average, which is about 6 percent.

"I know part of this boost in this student segment is due to the exceptional education we provide, but I also strongly believe that many veteran and military students choose USC Aiken not only because of the holistic support the VMSS offers but also the camaraderie and the connection they enjoy with their extended military family here," Jordan said.

While these students pursue their academic goals, all Pacers benefit to having military and veteran students on campus.

"Having our service members or their family members in our classroom greatly enhances the educational experiences of all our students," Jordan said.

"Their unique insight allows for engaging discussions and enriches mutual understanding, and their contributions in the classroom and presence on campus continue to expand each year."

Those inducted into Phi Alpha Sigma were:

Brenna Abdullah

Military Family Member

Early Childhood Education

Jennifer Braddy

U.S. Army Veteran

Business Administration

Brigette Cuonzo

Military Family Member

Applied Clinical Psychology

Aubrey Dakin

U.S. Army Veteran