Chi Alpha Epsilon, Alpha Rho Chapter
The Plattsburgh Chapter, Alpha Rho, was established in the fall of 1999. Members proudly
display their XAE pins and honor cords on commencement day as a reflection of their
academic excellence and service to the program.
Students who strive for excellence and who would like to receive the distinction of
membership in XAE must meet the following eligibility requirements.
Two consecutive semesters of:
- Full-Time enrollment
- Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or greater each semester
Founded at West Chester University of Pennsylvania, Chi Alpha Epsilon was launched
in 1990 in response to an increasing need to acknowledge the continuing successes
of students in the Academic Development Program. Recognizing that students who share
similar experiences could serve as significant models for others, a Greek letter honor
society was proposed by Dr. Elbert Saddler. Dr. Saddler, a university psychologist
and counseling coordinator for the ACT 101 Program, identified eligible students and
alumni to form the nucleus who are now the founding members of XAE.
Educational Opportunity Programs, and developmental programs at many colleges and
universities across the United States, have hailed its formation and in 1996, The
National Association for Developmental Education (NADE) has officially endorsed Chi
Alpha Epsilon as an honor society for developmental education students. The Council
for Opportunity in Education is also encouraging participation.
Purpose
Chi Alpha Epsilon was formed to recognize the academic achievements of students admitted
to colleges and the universities through non-traditional criteria or who utilize developmental
and educational support services. Its purposes is to promote continued high academic
standards, foster increased communication among its members, and to honor academic
excellence achieved by those students admitted to college via developmental/opportunity
program pathways or for those who participate in Student Support Services.
The involvement of eligible alumni further enables networking for members. Programs
sponsored by the society's chapter encourage other students toward this accomplishment.
The honor society also has the potential to be a significant political force in the
support of funding for developmental studies and educational opportunity programs
nationwide.