NW Valley Times

GCU's Arizona Alpha chapter of the Alpha Chi National College Honor Society has been recognized as the top chapter in the country, earning the prestigious President's Cup at the national convention in Birmingham, Alabama. Katalina Inzunza Herrera, the Honors College Academic Program Manager, proudly stated, "We are the No. 1 chapter in the country."

This achievement marks a significant milestone for the Arizona Alpha chapter, which boasts the largest membership in the nation with 3,488 active and 12,584 alumni members. Dr. Breanna Naegeli, the Honors College Dean and chapter advisor, expressed gratitude for the recognition, saying, "We feel exceptionally honored and grateful to have been selected as this year’s President’s Cup recipient."

The hard work and dedication of the chapter's staff and students were evident in their pursuit of excellence. Chapter co-advisor Anya Cofrancesco highlighted the exceptional efforts of the student leaders, stating, "I was confident we had a very good chance of receiving this recognition because of the incredible work – the hard work – our student leaders have done over the academic year."

The Arizona Alpha chapter's success was not limited to the President's Cup, as Dr. Naegeli received the Distinguished Service Award for Region VII, and several students showcased their scholarly work at the convention. Reflecting on the students' accomplishments, Inzunza Herrera emphasized how their presentations exemplified the professional development opportunities provided by GCU.

The chapter's commitment to academic excellence and servant leadership was further acknowledged through various scholarships awarded to students at the convention. Naegeli commended the students for their dedication to the rigorous scholarship application process, noting, "We are exceptionally proud of the work our students put into their scholarship applications."

Inzunza Herrera concluded by affirming that the accolades received at the convention validate the chapter's ongoing efforts, stating, "It recognizes the scholarship and servant leadership being displayed by our students." The Arizona Alpha chapter's continuous pursuit of excellence and commitment to academic achievement have cemented its position as a leading chapter within the Alpha Chi National College Honor Society.