The Penn State Smeal College of Business Beta Theta Chapter of Beta Alpha Psi, an international honor organization for financial information students and professionals, achieved distinguished status for the 2012-13 academic year.
This is the second year in a row that the Beta Theta Chapter has been recognized as a distinguished chapter. Led by faculty adviser Ralph Licastro, senior lecturer in accounting, the chapter “has excelled in the areas of academics, professionalism and leadership,” according to Jan Taylor Morris, current president of the international Beta Alpha Psi organization.
Students received word of the recognition at the Beta Alpha Psi national meeting in Anaheim, Calif., in August. Members of the executive board attended the meeting, met other chapters from around the country, and shared best practices.
Throughout the semester, the Beta Theta Chapter holds events to develop professional skills, network with recruiters and connect with fellow candidates and members. The chapter also participates in various service activities, including the Penn State IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon (THON) to raise money for the fight against pediatric cancer.
Founded in 1919, Beta Alpha Psi is an honor organization for financial information students and professionals. There are more than 300 chapters on college and university campuses with more than 300,000 members initiated since Beta Alpha Psi’s formation. The organization’s primary objective is to encourage and recognize scholastic and professional excellence in the business information field, including promoting the study and practice of accounting, finance, and information systems; providing opportunities for self-development, service, and association among members and practicing professionals; and encouraging a sense of ethical, social, and public responsibility.