LFCC inducts students into technology honor society in virtual ceremony

LFCC technology students now can aspire to join an honor society devoted to their field. Computer Science Professor Melissa Stange has brought Epsilon Pi Tau to LFCC. It is open to students taking both credit and non-credit classes.

Twenty-seven members were inducted into Delta Phi chapter of Epsilon Pi Tau earlier this spring. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the ceremony was held remotely. The inductees included 17 students, eight faculty and two professors emeriti. In the future, membership will be open to alumni and professionals.

“I brought this society to LFCC to acknowledge the amazing and talented technology students both on the academic and workforce side of LFCC,” said Professor Stange. “The Shenandoah Valley has some very talented technologists and technology companies who aren’t always recognized for their value to society.

This honor society is one way of recognizing their hard work.

“Additionally, the international society structure allows LFCC to provide a networking opportunity for our technology stakeholders. Students get the opportunity to network with potential employers and professionals working in the field. Professionals are given an opportunity to mentor students who soon will be entering the job force, and employers get to network with their future employees.”

Pictured during the virtual induction ceremony are Epsilon Pi Tau Executive Director Kevin Howell, IT Professor Darrell Andrews and Computer Science Professor Melissa Stange. Ia Gomez is the dean of Science, engineering, math and health.

In addition to networking opportunities, the honor society will offer scholarships to students and faculty, provide opportunities for publication, and hold community service activities.

To join Epsilon Pi Tau, students must have a minimum 3.5 GPA, and must maintain a GPA of 3.2 through graduation, be enrolled in a program that promotes the use of technology and have completed at least 30 semester hours. Faculty members must have taught in a technology program for two years or more, or be retired from teaching a technology program.

The LFCC chapter is co-led by Information Technology Professor José Nieves. A National Center for Women & Information Technology grant covered the cost of the inaugural ceremony.

Click here for the chapter’s website.