Eta Sigma Delta

What is Eta Sigma Delta?

Eta Sigma Delta is an international honor society that recognizes the scholastic and professional achievements of students and alumni in the field of hospitality, tourism and culinary arts.

In 1978, a group of students from the University of New Hampshire’s Whittemore School of Business and Economics identified a need to recognize hospitality and tourism students for outstanding academic achievement, meritorious service and demonstrated professionalism. At that time, honor societies existed for other disciplines, but not for the field of study serving one of the world's largest industries.

As a special project, the students researched and evaluated a variety of options for fulfilling this need. The end result was the establishment of the first chapter of Eta Sigma Delta International Hospitality Management Society. Today, there are over 90 active Eta Sigma Delta chapters throughout the world. The growth is testament to the dedication of both students and professionals in hospitality and tourism to the pursuit of academic, professional and personal excellence. The guidance and support of International CHRIE has made it possible for ESD to grow. It is the intent that this Society will lead hospitality and tourism educators and professionals to the highest levels of professionalism and achievement.

Benefits of ESD

The professional benefits of Eta Sigma Delta include an opportunity for outstanding students to distinguish themselves in the eyes of educators, recruiters and industry executives in an increasingly competitive industry. In addition, ESD provides a networking system that allows for interaction and the exchange of information among students and professionals. 

Educational benefits include the opportunity to provide a stimulus for students to strive for academic excellence. By functioning as a resource for the hospitality program, ESD also provides tutoring or other forms of academic support for students needing assistance.

Membership and Eligibility

The following requirements must be met by students, or alumni, in order to hold a membership in Eta Sigma Delta: 

• Completed 50% of the credit hours required for the degree
• Officially declared a hospitality management or related major
• Undergrads: Cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 or in the top 20% of the class
• Grads: Cumulative GPA of at least 3.5 and be in the top 15% of the class
• Must agree to uphold the values of: Excellence, Leadership, Creativity, Service, and Ethics

Have any questions or want to learn more? Contact Hospitality & Event Management program coordinator Dr. Seon Jeong (Ally) Lee at slee89@kent.edu.