Alfie Scholars Trio Selected to Lead New First-Generation Honor Society
Alfie Scholars Lorra Hernon (Nursing ‘21), Richard Pallangyo (Computer Science ‘21) and Adrian Nava (Nursing ‘21)
Lorra Hernon and Adrian Nava (Cohort 4, Nursing '21) are the new co-presidents, and Richard Pallangyo (Computer Science '21) is the vice president of the inaugural leadership team of the Alpha Alpha Alpha (Tri-Alpha) First-Generation Honor Society. New for the 2020–2021 academic year, the Seattle University chapter of Tri-Alpha is the first chapter in Washington State of this national honor society. On April 9th, the new chapter welcomed more than 80 members.
Tri-Alpha promotes academic excellence and provides opportunities for personal growth, leadership development, and campus and community service for first-generation college students.
Tri-Alpha membership is earned by outstanding academic achievement and lasts for a lifetime. Tri-Alpha's mission is to encourage and reward academic excellence among first-generation college students pursuing an associate's or bachelor's degree.
As the chapter's co-presidents Lorra and Adrian will plan, organize, and facilitate chapter meetings, assist with the recruitment process for new members, and recruit their successors for the following academic year.
The Alfie Scholars trio is looking forward to helping first-gen students navigate the education system and provide any resources they can offer. They also want to provide a safe space for first-generation students. At Seattle University, we define first-generation undergraduate and graduate students as students whose parents or guardians have not received a U.S. bachelor's degree. Almost 90% of Alfie Scholars are first-generation college students.
Lorra is looking forward to her new role. "I'm proud to be a part of the first-gen community. I have received wonderful support at SU, and it is an honor to be able to give back in this way."
"For me, starting the very first Tri-Alpha First-Gen Honor Society is very exciting! I am very excited to provide mentorship for first-gen students with the other Tri-Alpha officers. I am interested in learning about everyone's life experiences as first-gen students," Adrian shared.
In his role as vice president, Richard is also looking forward to opportunities to shine a light on his fellow first-gen students: "To serve in the inaugural leadership team of the Tri-Alpha's first chapter in Washington is an honor. I am grateful to have the opportunity to establish the Seattle University chapter and lead the way for other schools in Washington state. It is empowering to be working with a great team of first-generation students."
For more information on Lorra, Adrian and Richard
Learn more about Alpha Alpha Alpha
Hear more about the first-generation experience
