The University of Alabama at Birmingham Omicron Delta Kappa circle — a national leadership honor society — earned multiple honors for the 2024-2025 school year.
For the third consecutive year, the UAB chapter received the Circle of Distinction, a national recognition that celebrates circles that meet rigorous standards and demonstrate sustained excellence.
“Our UAB circle exemplifies the highest standards of leadership, scholarship and service,” said Shannon Blanton, Ph.D., dean of the UAB Honors College and faculty advisor of UAB’s circle of ODK. “I am proud of our members as their efforts not only honor the long-standing traditions of ODK but strengthen the culture of leadership that defines our university.”
To earn this recognition, a circle must meet all Circle Minimum Standards and complete at least three of the following:
- Sponsor a meaningful circle-driven signature leadership event on campus
- Participate in the National Day of Service (or an equivalent service initiative)
- Apply for the Maurice A. Clay Leadership Initiative Grant
- Submit a nomination for Circle Leader of the Year
- Submit a nomination for a national ODK award
These criteria ensure the Circle of Distinction represents active membership, leadership development, service and excellence.
Other recognitions included Blanton’s receiving the 2024 Eldridge W. Roark, Jr. Meritorious Service Award and UAB student Taigan White’s receiving the Circle Leader of the Year award for leadership and service.
The UAB circle of ODK, established on Nov. 22, 1975, has a long tradition of honoring individuals who embody the highest ideals of scholarship, service, integrity and collaboration. UAB President Ray Watts was a charter member of the UAB circle while an undergraduate student and served as the circle’s president.