WVU Parkersburg hosts Sigma Alpha Pi Induction Ceremony          

 Parkersburg, W.Va. (January 17, 2025) — WVU Parkersburg hosted an Induction Ceremony for the Sigma Alpha Pi Chapter of the National Society of Leadership & Success (NSLS) on Friday, December 6, 2024.

“Induction ceremonies are important because they formally mark a person’s transition into a new role or group, signifying their acceptance and membership while also providing a sense of belonging, pride and commitment to the organization’s values and standards. Essentially, it’s a way to publicly acknowledge and celebrate new members while establishing a connection to the group’s history and traditions,” said Lawrence J. McKenzie, advisor.

Dr. Jared Gump served as the keynote speaker during the event. His speech focused on leadership, success and the unique challenges introverts face in their leadership roles.

Students Julia Brooke Bland, Lyndsey Flevaris, Dalaney Haines, Johnathon Garret Laxton, James David Miller, Adam Christopher Rector, Amber Elliott, Amanda Hayes, Jodi Renee Lamp, Chandler Stephen McDowell, Lindsey Parish, Michael Brandon Riblett, Amber Saltz, Airyell Kaye Shultz, Jason Lee Thomas, Lily Shephard and Logan Gregory Skurupey were inducted into Sigma Alpha Pi.

New chapter officers were also recognized during the ceremony:

• Logan Skurupey was named the new student president.
• Jodi Lamp was named the new student vice president.
• Johnathon Laxton was named chair of social events.
• Lindsey Parish was named secretary.
• Crystal Proctor was named treasurer.

In addition, several awards were presented:

• Jared Gump received an Honorary Membership Award.
• Andrew Walker received an Excellence in Teaching Award.
• Katie Finnerty received an Excellence in Service to Students Award.
• Marie Butler received an Impact Leader Award.
• Lloyd Franklin Frazier II received an Impact Leader Award.

The Sigma Alpha Pi Chapter of the National Society of Leadership & Success, an accredited Honor Society, was established in 2021. Since then, more than 304 members in the chapter have joined the WVU Parkersburg Chapter of the NSLS. The NSLS is an organization that provides a life-changing leadership program that helps students achieve personal growth, career success and empowers them to have a positive impact in their community.