Eta Sigma Phi Classical Studies - Men and Women Founded at the University of Alabama, April 28, 1926 Publications: NUNTIUS

PURPOSE: The Constitution of Eta Sigma Phi states that the purposes of the society are "to develop and promote interest in classical study among the students of colleges and universities; to promote closer fraternal relationship among students who are interested in classical study, including inter-campus relationship; to engage generally in an effort to stimulate interest in classical study, and in the history, art, and literature of ancient Greece and Rome." ELIGIBILITY: There are three categories of membership: (1) Active membership is limited to undergraduates who are enrolled in classes in Latin and/or Greek in the original languages. A student must meet the basic qualification of an attained grade of not less than "B" in courses in Latin and Greek, with completion of at least one semester or two quarters. The chapters are permitted considerable autonomy in any additional requirements for membership; however, the grade standard stated above must be observed, and it is expected that chapters will maintain even higher standards. (2) Associate membership is open to graduate students who were undergraduate members of Eta Sigma Phi and graduate students in Classics elected under the requirements of membership. (3) Honorary membership is conferred upon persons selected by the chapter for their interest in the Classics and contributions to the understanding and appreciation of classical languages, history, and culture. MAJOR ACTIVITIES: At the national level, Eta Sigma Phi sponsors these activities: (1) The Scholarships: Each year the society awards two scholarships for study abroad during the summer, one to the American School of Classical Studies at Athens and the other to the American Academy in Rome, to members who have recently graduated. A third scholarship, to a session of the Vergilian Society at Cumae, is also offered, with preference going to rising juniors and seniors. (2) The Contests: Each year the society sponsors contests among college and university students to encourage the study of Latin and Greek on the college level. Participation in the contests is limited to colleges and universities in which there are Eta Sigma Phi chapters. The contests are in Greek translation, Latin translation, and Latin prose composition. (3) The Medals: The society makes available to high school teachers inexpensive medals to award to outstanding students. Many Eta Sigma Phi chapters also award the medals in local high schools. These medals are intended to encourage the study of Latin in high school. (4) The Newsletter: NUNTIUS is the official publication of Eta Sigma Phi, published two times each year. It contains information concerning the society, original articles by members, announcements, and accounts of the activities of the chapters. (5) The National Convention: The Constitution provides for a national convention each year, late in March or in April. At this time,NUNTIUSdelegates conduct the business of the society, including the election of national officers, and workshops are held. Local chapters bid to host the convention, and an effort is made to move the site from region to region to accommodate chapters in different parts of the country. OFFICIAL CONTACT: The Executive Secretary of Eta Sigma Phi will be pleased to answer any questions concerning the society or the formation of new chapters. Contact him at waynet@hsc.edu.