To the Editor,
Each semester at East Tennessee State University, students receive letters, post cards and emails congratulating them on being “selected” to join an honor society. For many, especially those early in their college experience, that message feels like a meaningful recognition of their hard work.
Not long ago, a student stopped by my office with one of these invitations in hand, excited but unsure. They asked a simple question: “Is this something I should join?” Like many students, they were trying to balance pride in being recognized with uncertainty about whether the opportunity was truly worthwhile. As Dean of Student Engagement—and after almost 20 years working with student organizations—I’ve seen how complex and confusing this decision can be.
In some recent cases at ETSU, organizations have used university trademarks without authorization and sent invitations stating that “East Tennessee State University cordially invites” students to join. This is misleading. Student organizations are not agents of the university, and registration with the Office of Student Activities & Organizations does not imply University endorsement.
In fact, ETSU policy makes it clear that recognition of a student organization should not be interpreted as approval of a group’s purpose or practices.
It is also important to understand what membership represents. While some of these groups offer leadership development or access to scholarships, they often operate through parent companies that generate revenue through membership fees. In that sense, students must recognize that they are purchasing a service—and the value of that service deserves careful consideration.
Other groups, sometimes using broad names like “honor society,” are not affiliated with ETSU at all and rely on mass email outreach, again without authorization from the University. While some of these groups may hold nonprofit status or have a nonprofit arm in order to accept donations, many are not certified by the Association of College Honor Societies, the leading authority on legitimacy and academic standards.
Before joining any of these groups, students should pause and ask: Do the membership standards meet my expectations for a highly selective or prestigious recognition? What am I gaining, and is it worth the cost? Are benefits ongoing, or dependent on additional annual fees?
I encourage students and families to consult ETSU Buc-Hub (www.etsu.edu/buc-hub) to verify whether an organization is registered and in compliance with University procedures, review the Association of College Honor Societies website (www.achshonor.org) for the list of certified groups, and reach out to the Student Activities and Organizations office (studactv@etsu.edu or 423-439-6633) for guidance.
We are always happy to help students think through these decisions. Recognition should feel meaningful—and it should be earned in ways that truly support your goals. With a bit
of research, students can make choices that reflect both their achievements and their aspirations
M. Leah Adinolfi
ETSU Assistant Vice President/Dean of Student Engagement
