The 2024 KON inductees and HDFS faculty are, front row, from left: HDFS Teaching Professor and Program Coordinator Janet Melnick, Emily Kizer, Ava Smargiassi, Leila Moran and Jazmine Hamilton. Second row, from left: Emily Hallman, Skylar Bower, HDFS Assistant Teaching Professor Melissa Labuda, Associate Professor of HDFS Parminder Parmar and Francesca Orellana.
DUNMORE, Pa. — The Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS) program at Penn State Scranton recently celebrated the induction of new members into the Kappa Omicron Nu (KON) honor society, recognizing their academic achievements and commitment to leadership in the human sciences. The formal ceremony was held in the campus’ Sherbine Lounge and led by HDFS Program Coordinator and KON Adviser Janet Melnick.
Kappa Omicron Nu is a national honor society dedicated to recognizing and promoting excellence in scholarship, leadership and research within the human sciences. The society, which has been in existence since 1990, was formed through the consolidation of two earlier organizations: Kappa Omicron Phi, founded in 1922, and Omicron Nu, established in 1912. Today, KON boasts more than 80 active chapters and over 150,000 members across the country, offering numerous opportunities for professional development, academic research and service.
This year, four new members were inducted into KON: Skylar Bower, Emily Kizer, Leila Moran and Ava Smargiassi, who were recognized for their exceptional academic records, leadership potential, and dedication to the values of the human sciences. They join a select group of students committed to making a positive impact in their communities and the broader field.
In addition to the new inductees, the ceremony also recognized the current officers of the Penn State Scranton KON chapter. Emily Hallman serves as president; Francesca Orellana is the vice president; and other active members include Jazmine Hamilton, Jessica Reed and Sadie Stevens. These students are involved in a wide range of leadership activities, both on and off-campus, and contribute to the society’s mission of promoting excellence in scholarship, leadership and community service.
KON members are encouraged to take an active role in service projects that address important social issues. These projects often focus on topics such as bullying prevention; community beautification; diversity, equity and inclusion; homelessness; hunger; and physical activity. Through these initiatives, members develop valuable leadership skills while making a tangible difference in their communities.
The society also places a strong emphasis on research. KON members have the opportunity to work closely with faculty on research projects, with many students submitting their work for publication in the Undergraduate Research Journal for the Human Sciences or presenting their findings at national conferences. KON provides scholarships and grants to support student research and encourages members to continue their academic and professional growth in the field of human sciences.
For many students, induction into KON is not only a recognition of their accomplishments but also a steppingstone to future opportunities. As members of this honor society, students gain access to a wide network of peers and professionals, as well as resources for scholarships, research opportunities and leadership development.
The induction ceremony underscored the commitment of Penn State Scranton’s HDFS program to providing students with the tools and support they need to succeed both academically and professionally. The students inducted into KON represent program's values of excellence, leadership and a dedication to making a difference in the field of human sciences.
The ceremony concluded with a reception that gave students, their families and faculty an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the new inductees and reflect on the significance of being part of such a distinguished organization.
Penn State's bachelor of science in human development and family studies is a flexible degree that emphasizes hands-on learning to prepare students who want to work with children, adults and families in a diverse array of careers across a wide range of human services, health care, and helping professionals in public and nonprofit agencies, or business and industry. It also prepares students for advanced professional or graduate study.
