The Eta Gamma Chapter of the Tau Sigma National Honor Society at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University inducted forty-five transfer students during its spring ceremony, according to a March 27 announcement. The event was held on Feb. 17 in the School of Journalism and Graphic Communication lecture hall, where faculty, family, and friends gathered to celebrate the achievements of these students.
Tau Sigma recognizes academic achievement among transfer students. Membership is based primarily on performance during a student’s first semester at their new institution; inductees must enroll full-time and earn a minimum 3.5 grade point average during their inaugural term at FAMU.
Elaine Bryant, Ph.D., associate dean of the School of Journalism and Graphic Communication, delivered the keynote address. “Transfer students bring a unique tenacity to our campus,” Bryant said. “While the transition can be daunting, your presence here today proves that you haven’t just adapted to a new environment, you have excelled in it. This induction is a testament to your ability to turn the initial hurdles of ‘transfer shock’ into a foundation for leadership. You are not just joining a society. You are setting a standard for excellence at FAMU.”
Alyssa Griggs, one of the new inductees, spoke about her experience as a transfer student: “Coming to a university as large as FAMU, after starting elsewhere, felt like being a small fish in a massive pond,” Griggs said. “Earning this recognition through the Eta Gamma chapter makes the initial struggle feel worth it. It’s more than a 3.5 GPA. It’s knowing that we belong here just as much as those who started here as freshmen.”
Tamaria Williams, Ph.D., director of transitional services within the Office of Student Success, also addressed how organizations like Tau Sigma help transfer students integrate quickly into campus life: “Organizations like Tau Sigma play an important role in helping transfer students build connections early and stay engaged throughout their time at Florida A&M University,” Williams said.
The chapter plans to continue supporting its newest members with professional development workshops and community service initiatives throughout the spring semester.
