An honors society chapter at Eastern received a national award that has been given out for the first time.

Gamma Chi, an EIU chapter of Sigma Gamma Epsilon, received the National Quality Award according to a press release.

“SGE is the national honor society for geology, and this award (Gamma Chi) received . recognizes excellence in planning,” said Michael Cornebise, chair of the geology and geography department.

Cornebise said Gamma Chi won the award based on the activities that the members have done throughout the last year.

The Gamma Chi chapter is advised by Diane Burns, assistant professor of the geology and geography department.

“Dr. Burns and Gamma Chi have exemplified excellence and are very deserving of recognition,” James Walters, the national secretary-treasurer for Sigma Gamma Epsilon, said in a press release.

Cornebise said one of the requirements for receiving the National Quality Award is nominating an individual from Gamma Chi for the Tarr Award, which is one of the major awards of Sigma Gamma Epsilon.

According to a press release, along with selecting a recipient for the Tarr Award, specific criteria need to be met. Those criteria include electing officers, initiating new members, submitting forms, paying dues and completing a service project.

Cornebise said winning the award is an accomplishment to the department of geology and geography.

“The reason why this is important is because this is the first time it’s ever been given out, the quality award, and nationally to win the award is pretty cool,” Cornebise said.

Alesha Bailey can be reached at 581-7942 or ambailey2@eiu.edu