FROM CHALLENGES
TRIUMPH
TO Delta Sigma Pi Shines Bright Over the course of a transformative year, the Southern Miss Delta Sigma Pi chapter emerged as a beacon of success and leadership after embarking on an extraordinary journey of growth—overcoming challenges and celebrating remarkable achievements. Post-pandemic, the Gamma Tau chapter struggled with both membership and their financial standing, as did many other student organizations. The newly elected student leaders of the chapter knew they would have to work hard to get the organization back to the caliber it once was, and as the year went on, the chapter proved to be an unstoppable force. The chapter hit the ground running, organizing several successful events, from community service efforts that benefitted their philanthropic partner, Ronald McDonald House of Jackson, to hosting a multitude of guest speakers, fundraising initiatives, and recruitment activities. The chapter ended the year with 23 newly initiated members, doubling their membership numbers. During the fall semester, the chapter returned to national "good standing" after three years of "on guidance" status. The chapter was also recognized as an accredited chapter for the 2021-22 academic year in accordance with the Delta Sigma Pi Chapter Management Program (CMP). This is the first time the Gamma Tau chapter has earned any designation since 2015. The chapter ended the 2022-23 academic year as a "Chapter of Excellence"— the highest designation of the CMP.
38 | College of Business and Economic Development
As the year went on, the Gamma Tau chapter remained steadfast in their pursuit of excellence, participating in several conferences and meetings in places such as St. Louis, Missouri; Knoxville, Tennessee; and Houston, Texas. During the LEAD Provincial Conference, Southern Miss captured the prestigious Provincial Outstanding Financial Operations for a Collegiate Chapter Award presented by the national office. This award is presented to a chapter that plans and implements the most comprehensive program of fundraising and financial management. Winning this award was a testament to the chapter’s overall excellence and their success at bouncing back from the challenges they faced just a short time ago. Celebrating their achievements and acknowledging the contributions of their members, the Gamma Tau chapter organized the 2023 Alumni and Senior Appreciation Banquet. This gathering brought together collegiate members and distinguished guests, including former Delta Sigma Pi grand presidents and alumni, Bill Tatum '79 and Mitch Simmons '09. Both Tatum and Simmons shared inspiring anecdotes from their personal journeys. They also presented recipients with new awards named in their honor. The inaugural Mitch Simmons Excellence in Leadership Award was presented by Simmons to Emma Warren, while the Bill Tatum Excellence in Recruitment Award was presented to Madalyn Sanders. Several other outstanding members were recognized for their exemplified excellence in leadership, dedication, and fraternal spirit.