Each year, Omicron Delta Kappa recognizes those circles that have achieved a significant level of accomplishment. Circles that receive these awards are the embodiment of the best practices in coordinating O∆K activities. They provide inspiration and examples of how circles can thrive at their host institutions. In addition to meeting Circle Minimum Standards, circles must have completed additional requirements to be honored with these awards.
Circle of Distinction
In addition to the Circle Minimum Standards, this award honors circles that have completed at least three of the following:
- Selected and submitted the nomination for a Circle Leader of the Year
- Sponsored a circle-driven signature event on campus
- Participated in the National Day of Service (or an equivalent service project)
- Applied for the Maurice A. Clay Leadership Initiative Grant
- Submitted a nomination for a national award (Hogle, Roark, etc.)
Circle of Distinction Recipients
- Christopher Newport University
- Clemson University
- Hampden-Sydney College
- Lamar University
- Purdue University
- Southern Connecticut State University
- Southwestern University
- St. Lawrence University
- University of Alabama at Birmingham
- University of Baltimore
- University of Minnesota Duluth
- University of South Carolina
- Winthrop University
Superior Circle
This award honors circles that have done the following:
- Fulfilled all the requirements to be recognized as a Circle of Distinction
- Sent delegate(s) to the virtual National Leadership Conference (April 2021) or the June 2022 National Leadership Conference.
- Qualified for one of the supplementary recognitions (Membership Growth and Stability or Circle Stewardship)
Superior Circle Recipients
- Concordia University Irvine
- East Carolina University
- Loyola University New Orleans
- Western Kentucky University
Presidential Award of Excellence
This award honors circles that have:
- Circle of Distinction for five consecutive years; or
- Superior Circle for three consecutive years; or
- Been recognized with some combination of both (Circle of Distinction or Superior Circle) every year for five consecutive years
Presidential Award of Excellence Recipients
- Cumberland University
- Emory University
- Fontbonne University
- Morningside University
- University of Maryland, College Park
- University of Richmond
