Distinguish yourself and join a global network of hospitality professionals

Benefits of Membership

Joining Eta Sigma Delta offers numerous advantages that extend beyond academic recognition. Members can enjoy the following benefits:

• Professional Networking: Gain access to an extensive network of over 100 ESD chapters worldwide, fostering connections with educators, industry professionals, and fellow students. This networking system provides opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and career advancement.
• Career Distinction: Membership in Eta Sigma Delta sets you apart in the competitive hospitality and tourism industry. It demonstrates your commitment to excellence and positions you favorably in the eyes of recruiters and industry executives.
• Educational Support: ESD chapters serve as a resource for academic support, offering tutoring and mentorship to help members achieve their academic goals. This collaborative environment encourages students to strive for excellence.
• Lifetime Membership: ESD membership is lifelong, allowing you to remain connected with the society and its resources long after graduation. Members retain access to the International Council on Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Education (ICHRIE) and its offerings.
• Special Events and Recognition: Eta Sigma Delta members have the opportunity to participate in exclusive events, including special functions at annual trade shows. Additionally, an Eta Sigma Delta column regularly appears in the International CHRIE monthly newsletter, providing a platform to share updates and activities of its members.

Membership Eligibility

Eta Sigma Delta (ESD) offers membership to students, alumni, and distinguished professionals who demonstrate excellence in hospitality and tourism. Membership eligibility is categorized as follows:

Student Member ESD Eligibility

To qualify for Eta Sigma Delta student membership, students must meet the following criteria:

• Students must have completed 50% of the credit hours required for graduation.
• Students must officially declare a major in Hospitality, Event, Entertainment, or Theme Park management (or a related field).
• Students must be enrolled in an institution that belongs to International CHRIE.
• Students must maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or 3.5 for graduate students.
• If not on a 4.0 system, students must be in the top 20% of their class.
• Students must agree to uphold the core values of excellence, leadership, creativity, service, ethics, and Diversity-Equity-Inclusion.

Honorary ESD Membership Eligibility

Honorary membership is extended to industry professionals, faculty administrators, or other distinguished individuals who have made significant contributions to the fields of hospitality management, tourism, or culinary arts. Nominations for honorary membership must be made in writing by individual chapters or Chapter Advisors and will be reviewed by the Board of Governors.

Alumni ESD Membership Eligibility

Alumni membership is available to graduates of an institution who would have met the student membership qualifications for ESD at the time of their enrollment, had there been an active ESD Chapter during their studies.

Application Process for Students

Becoming a member of Eta Sigma Delta is a straightforward process for eligible students. Follow the steps below to join this prestigious international honor society:

• Verify Eligibility: Confirm that you meet the eligibility criteria outlined above, including completing at least 50% of the required credit hours, declaring a hospitality-related major, and maintaining a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher (or 3.5 for graduate students).
• Complete the Application: Download & Complete the official Eta Sigma Delta student membership application form attached below. If you have any questions, you can also contact your ESD Faculty Advisor.

STUDENT MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

• Pay the Membership Fee: Submit a check or money order for $75.00 made payable to Eta Sigma Delta (ESD), which covers your lifetime membership. This one-time fee includes an honor cord to wear at graduation, an Eta Sigma Delta certificate of academic excellence, and an ESD lapel pin.
• Submit Your Application: Once you have completed your application and included your payment, you can submit it in one of two ways:
  • In-Person: Deliver your application and payment directly to my office, Rosen 271, by October 11, 2024.
  • By Mail: Alternatively, you may mail your completed application and payment to the following address:
    Rosen College of Hospitality Management
    Dr. Kevin Murphy
    Office 271
    9907 Universal Blvd
    Orlando, FL 32819
• Attend the Induction Ceremony: Join us for an Induction Ceremony Reception on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, from 5:00 – 6:30 PM in the Disney Dining Room at the Rosen College. Family and friends are welcome to attend.