272 Omicron Delta Kappa (ODK) was a multigenerational National Leadership Society that returned to campus in fall 2022. The Harding circle of the organization was formed by Dr. Mike James in the 1994-95 school year. During the 2019-20 school year, the club had a hard time meeting due to the COVID-19 related health regulations in place and took a hiatus as a result. Dr. John Richard Duke, associate professor of history and political science, was in charge of the club and planned for it to be stronger with new officers and members. “It’s always been there,” Duke said. “It just took about a year and a half where they didn’t have an induction class during COVID to help cope with the situation, we’re trying to get it going again.” With the new inductees, they also appointed new officers. Junior Briana McSpadden was president, and junior Allie Nesbitt was vice president. They explained that they were nominated and accepted the invitation to join. “ODK seeks to encourage collaboration among students, faculty, staff and alumni to advance leadership,” McSpadden said. Harding’s circle was actively involved with hosting events for the University, such as the Leadership Seminar hosted each spring. The seminar resembled an open conference where many student leaders gathered to learn. Campus leaders from the community also attended the event. Learning Leadership The national organization Omicron Delta Kappa rebuilds its circle at Harding. “Being a part of ODK gives us an opportunity to develop good leadership skills and learn more about what it looks like to use those skills throughout the rest of our lives,” Nesbitt said. Written by: Athya McBride GOOD DAY Dr. John Richard Duke gives a welcome speech to the inductees at the beginning of the ceremony. He served as a faculty sponsor for ODK. Photo by: Grace Hurt
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