Phi Beta Delta, an academic and professional society dedicated to recognizing scholarly achievement in global education has a renewed presence on the University of Iowa campus.

The Alpha Tau Chapter of Phi Beta Delta Honors Society for International Scholars at the UI was reactivated in Spring 2020, led by Yashwant Prakash Vyas, assistant director of diversity resources and president of the Alpha Tau Chapter, with support from the Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and International Programs.

It is unknown when Phi Beta Delta was last active on campus.

“The chapter provides meaningful recognition for faculty, staff, and students involved in international educational interchange. It also provides a platform for individuals to address issues facing global education as well as to build community. These two actions strategically contribute to promoting international educational interchange at the University of Iowa, which is a crucial aspect of the university given its status as a Tier 1 research university with international reach,” said Vyas.

The society’s mission is to recognize achievement in international educational interchange and to serve as a catalyst to increase the recognition, credibility, and importance of the international experience, and develop a network of individuals involved in international experiences. Vyas commented, “Phi Beta Delta is unique because it is resolutely interdisciplinary and international.”

Kristine Djerf, senior study abroad advisor and program coordinator in International Programs, serves as the Alpha Tau Chapter marketing chair. When asked about benefits of membership, she commented, “I believe that the primary benefit to being a member is the community aspect and networking with people who are like-minded. Being a member has the potential to open a lot of doors and opportunities for everyone.”

Upcoming initiatives led by the Alpha Tau Chapter of Phi Beta Delta include an affinity graduation for international students as well as a Global Education Lecture Series to discuss issues facing international educational interchange. The first lecture, From Pandemic to Promise: Rebuilding International Education in the Wake of COVID-19, is scheduled for Thursday February 18, 2021, from 4-5 p.m. CST.

For additional information, please see https://phibetadelta.org.uiowa.edu/. Interested in becoming a member of Phi Beta Delta? Check out information about membership criteria here, https://phibetadelta.org.uiowa.edu/membership-and-recognition-0.