Three students inducted into UGA's Arch Society

Last month, three students in the University of Georgia College of Education were inducted into UGA's Arch Society, a unique student organization for students in their third year or higher.

Named after the most prominent symbol of the university, members of the Arch Society provide service to the University of Georgia as official hosts and goodwill ambassadors. Selection by the organization is based on the applicant's poise, demeanor, knowledge of the institution and ability to represent the university to its many, diverse constituents.

The Arch Society inducted nine returning members and 27 new members to serve in the 25th inducted class of the organization. All inductees were presented with their official black blazers from Victor Wilson, the vice president for student affairs at UGA, as well as their respective lapel pins from Tom Cochran, the Arch Society's founder.

Before they were officially inducted, all members completed a group interview with members of the '15– '16 class, as well as a group of alumni members. Afterwards, the members had an individual interview with the University Selection Committee, which consisted of representatives from all of the offices the Arch Society serves, as well as Cochran, an alumni representative and two outgoing Arch members. The selection committee was chaired by Wilson who oversees the Arch Society.

Members went through their formal training period every week between their selection and induction. Held on April 24, the Induction Ceremony was immediately followed by a reception to celebrate the new group. Approximately 200 guests were in attendance.

The students selected for a second year of membership from the College are:

• Cristian Escalera, exercise and sport science (Valdosta, Georgia)
• Ellie Pardee, middle school education (Lawrenceville, Georgia)

The new inductee and first year member from the College is:

• Omar France, intended English education (Morrow, Georgia)