At Southern Nazarene University, students have access to a wide range of clubs, societies, honors programs, and services that allow them to become involved and represent the university. One of those options is the Mortar Board, a national honors society that recognizes high-achieving juniors and seniors for their commitment to scholarship, leadership, and service.
Students who are in the Mortar Board must rank in the top 35% of their class or maintain a minimum GPA of 3.3. Along with academic achievement, members are selected based on their influence and dedication to their campus and community.
Professor Tami McDaniels, academic support advisor for tutoring services, serves as the chapter advisor for SNU’s Mortar Board. When asked what she hopes students understand about the significance of membership, McDaniels explained, “They will be part of this community for life. Membership is a lifetime honor that includes networking, career resources, leadership development, and engagement opportunities years beyond graduation.”
Students Jalan Washington, a junior majoring in mass communication, and Matthew King, a PGS senior majoring in family studies and gerontology, are both members of SNU’s 2026 Mortar Board. Although the society is still in the early stages of the academic year, both students noted the group’s strong sense of organization and collaboration.
King shared that he was impressed by how efficiently the group began its work. “I was surprised at how quickly we were able to elect our leadership team and how seamlessly everyone came together to start planning activities,” he stated.
Washington encouraged students to not hesitate when considering membership in the society. “Don’t worry about the finances – instead go to the Mortar Board website, and read the synopsis for the honors program,” he said. “Once you feel like this is something that interests you, don’t hesitate to sign up. I believe it will be all worth it for skillsets such as leadership and service all while building community at SNU.”
McDaniels echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the growth she has already observed in the SNU Mortar Board thus far. “Every time I interact with the members, I see leadership in action,” she conveyed. “They work together with intention, show empathy towards one another, and thoughtfully create and carry out plans. Right now what stands out most is their genuine desire to serve others.”
The SNU Mortar Board has been working hard on continuing to show their commitment to service through campus involvement. Members sold flowers for December 2025 during commencement, and they are currently promoting their upcoming fundraiser for Valentine’s Day. From Feb. 9-12, the group will sell Valentine’s Kiss-o-grams and Crush sodas in the SNU library.
Photo Provided by the Mortar Board