Founded at West Chester University of Pennsylvania, Chi Alpha Epsilon was organized in 1989. Responding to an increased need to acknowledge the continuing successes of students in the Academic Development Program and recognizing that students who share similar experiences could serve as significant models for others, a Greek letter honor society was proposed by Dr. Elbert Saddler. A university psychologist and counseling coordinator for the ACT 101 Program, Dr. Saddler identified eligible students and alumni to form the nucleus who are now the founding members of XAE. Through the efforts of Dr. Peter T. Kyper, Director of Developmental Programs at West Chester University, national recognition of the society has begun. Directors of similar programs at other colleges and universities have hailed its formation, which has led to plans for expansion to National Honor Society status.
Chi Alpha Epsilon was formed to recognize the academic achievements of students admitted to colleges and the universities through non-traditional criteria. Its purposes are to promote continued high academic standards, to foster increased communication among its members, and to honor academic excellence achieved by those students admitted to college via developmental programs. The involvement of eligible alumni enables networking for members. Programs sponsored by the society encourage other students toward this accomplishment.
The honor society also has the potential to be a significant political force in the support of funding for developmental studies nationwide.
Membership in Chi Alpha Epsilon is offered through local campus chapters to eligible students and alumni.
Full-time students who hold a 3.0 cumulative G.P.A. for two consecutive semesters who were admitted to the college/university via developmental or Higher Education Opportunity types of programs are eligible for membership.
Alumni who were graduated with a 3.0 or better cumulative average prior to the formation of a campus chapter may, once a chapter is founded, be organized into graduate chapters.
A chapter may be instituted on a campus where a higher Educational Opportunity type of program exists. A letter from the program director indicating a desire to form a chapter and including the names of a minimum of four eligible students, along with their official transcripts, should be sent to: Chi Alpha Epsilon, 129 Lawrence Center, West Chester University, West Chester, PA 19383, E-Mail: esaddler@wcupa.edu. Phone 610.738.0521
Chapter Officers and Founding Members |
FAQ's: Frequently Asked Questions answered by Dr. Saddler |
Philosophical and Theoretical Foundations of XAE |
XAE as a factor in the Academic Development Program at WCU |