South Louisiana Community College (SLCC) is launching Alpha Alpha Alpha organization, also known as Tri-Alpha, across its campuses beginning this fall. It is a national honor society of first-generation college students, with more than 100 chapters across the United States.
More than three out of four students at SLCC (76%) are considered first-generation college students. The college’s Tri-Alpha chapter is an initiative started by the student-led Diversity and Inclusion Programming organization.
Jakia Steele, student life coordinator at SLCC, helped to bring Tri-Alpha to the college, alongside Toni Celestine, director of career and testing services. Steele is a first-generation college graduate, and establishing Tri-Alpha is personal to her.
“As a first-generation college student, I know first-hand how challenging navigating college can be. It is important for our students to know that they are not alone in this challenge that SLCC supports them and encourages their successes,” said Steele. “Tri-Alpha is an opportunity to connect students with faculty and staff mentorship, local and national resources, and peer support while celebrating the academic achievements of our students.”
Eligible students must have earned at least 30 credit hours toward an associate or baccalaureate degree, have an overall GPA of 3.2, and is classified as a first-generation college student.
Membership is $10 for students, and $20 for faculty, staff, and alumni. Membership is Tri-Alpha is for life. Student members will be able to receive mentoring from other first-generation college students, as well as faculty, staff, and alumni who were first-generation students.
“Tri-Alpha Honor Society provides students with opportunities for growth and leadership,” said Celestine. “As an employee of SLCC, I am committed to being a champion for our students by partnering with professional organizations and creating opportunities for success.”
For more information on SLCC’s Tri-Alpha chapter, email trialpha@solacc.edu.
ABOUT ACADIANA’S COMMUNITY COLLEGE
South Louisiana Community College is a comprehensive community college that operates campuses in Abbeville, Crowley, Franklin, Lafayette, Morgan City, New Iberia, Opelousas, St. Martinville, and Ville Platte. The college serves more than 17,000 students annually and offers an array of academic programs. Students earn associate degrees, technical diplomas, certificates, and industry-based certifications. It is ranked 14th among the Top 100 Associate Degree Producers as determined by Community College Week.
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