Feature Story
Southern Virginia University’s Chapter of Sigma Delta Pi Earns National Award for Third Consecutive Year
Press release from the National Collegiate Hispanic Honor Society, Sigma Delta Pi
Southern Virginia University’s Alpha Alpha Gamma Chapter of Sigma Delta Pi, the National Collegiate Hispanic Honor Society, has been named an “Honor Chapter” for its outstanding activities in 2025–26, an award that was bestowed to only 12 chapters nationwide in 2026. This is the third consecutive year in the chapter’s 11–year history that Southern Virginia has earned this distinction, and Dr. Iana Konstantinova, faculty adviser who founded the chapter back in 2015, was instrumental in earning this award for her student group.
Each summer, the 640 chapters of Sigma Delta Pi nationwide are asked to submit an annual report detailing their numerous activities and projects from the academic year. Based on these reports, the National Executive Committee chooses approximately 10–15 “Honor Chapters” annually. This recognition is based upon the caliber of chapter projects that reflect the Sigma Delta Pi mission of honoring excellence in the study of the Spanish language, contributing to cultural understanding and upholding the goals of the society.
Founded in 1919 and with its national office at the College of Charleston in South Carolina, Sigma Delta Pi is also a member since 1966 of the Association of College Honor Societies, the nation’s only certifying agency for college and university honor societies.
For Konstantinova, the recognition reflects the enthusiasm and commitment of the chapter’s students.
“I love seeing how passionate and involved our students get,” said Konstantinova. “We’re a small chapter, but their dedication to the Spanish language and Hispanic culture is remarkable. It’s all driven by the students; I simply encourage them, and their hard work and willingness to serve are what brought us here.”
During the 2025–26 academic year, the university’s chapter hosted a wide range of cultural and social events, including a multilingual poetry night, a bachata night, a pan dulce and hot chocolate social, and a Super Bowl watch party and dance in partnership with the university’s Latino Club.
Members also remained active in the community, translating at local schools, volunteering with and making a Puerto Rican dinner for Project Horizon, participating in Buena Vista’s Park Service Day, and organizing a Day of the Dead service initiative with BillionGraves. Chapter officers have also been distinguished with the prestigious Gabriela Mistral Award every year since 2023.
Led by student president Amirrah Hoffman, the chapter also partnered with the Pulsera Project from Oct. 1-14 to sell bracelets and purses on campus. All benefits from the sale were used to benefit Central American artisans and promote fair trade.