The University of Alabama’s Delta Xi chapter of Eta Sigma Gamma, a national health education honorary, recently won two awards for its work during the 2017-18 year.
Delta Xi received the Chapter Achievement Award for its efforts in teaching, research and service. In addition, President Meghan Shewmake was honored with the Loren B. Bensley Jr. Gamman of the Year Award for outstanding leadership.
“The Chapter Achievement Award is a great honor for our chapter and brings recognition of our program to the national stage,” said Shewmake. “Our chapter continuously goes above and beyond to add new activities and projects that will serve the needs of the University and community.”
To be considered for the award, a chapter must participate in three activities, including one service and one teaching activity. Shewmake said the group has worked hard over the past few years to expand its work.
“Delta Xi ensures that our students understand the basics and foundations of health education and promotion,” said Shewmake. “We use information learned in the classroom and apply it within our activities and projects.”
Shewmake, who earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from UA and will graduate with a doctorate in health education and promotion in August, received the Loren B. Bensley Jr. Gamman of the Year Award. The award recognizes a student who demonstrates outstanding leadership and service to furthering the goals of Eta Sigma Gamma.
“It’s an honor to receive the Gamman of the Year Award,” said Shewmake. “Throughout my time with ESG, I have always tried to do my very best and show up for my chapter and community as much as I could, and I’m proud of the work that we have been able to do over the past five years.”
Delta Xi, in alignment with the mission of Eta Sigma Gamma, promotes the health education profession by elevating the standards, ideals, competence and ethics of professionally prepared health educators. UA students taking public health courses are recruited by the organization each year.