After falling into a period of inactivity as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, the Sigma Kappa Delta Honors Society, also known as SKD, is finally returning to Jones College.
SKD is the English Honor Society for community colleges across the nation. The society isn’t limited only to English majors, but to anyone on campus with a love for reading or writing.
This fall, sponsor Amanda Robertson began work to rebuild this program after it and the rest of the world’s abrupt shutdown in 2020.
“Mrs. Julie Atwood came to me and said she wanted to revive the program,” said Robertson. “She thought I would be good at it and has helped me get SKD back on its feet.”
Currently, the society has over 15 members and counting. To join, the only criterion students must meet is to have no grade lower than a B in an English course and have a minimum of 12 credit hours before joining.
Despite the short period of time it has been active again, the society has already made great strides to become established on campus once more. One project the group participated in was a joint effort between SKD and Phi Theta Kappa. The two groups worked together to write about the paintings of late artist Mandy Buchanan and display these at the opening of her memorial, where many of her paintings were displayed.
Later this year, the society plans to work with PTK and the art department to create a free book-exchange library on campus for students to enjoy. The idea is to have art and design students design and construct the miniature library themselves. Meanwhile, the SKD students are responsible for making sure it stays stocked with books and maintaining the upkeep.
Another goal SKD hopes to accomplish this year is to provide tutoring opportunities for local youth. SKD students would go to local elementary schools, as well as the childcare facility on campus, and help children learn to read.
“I have this grand idea of having something like in New York where they have Shakespeare in the park,” said Robertson. “We make that our own and do Shakespeare on the plaza.”
SKD is looks to make a strong comeback this semester. Students interested can join anytime throughout the academic year by contacting Amanda Robertson at amanda.robertson@jcjc.edu.
by Kate Atwood
