Activities and Organizations

Sigma Tau Delta

In 1986, Valparaiso University established a new chapter of Sigma Tau Delta, the National English Honor Society. The purposes of the Society are (a) to confer distinction for high achievement in English language and literature in undergraduate, graduate, and professional studies, (b) to promote interest in literature and the English language on local campuses and their surrounding communities, and (c) to foster the discipline of English in all its aspects, including creative and critical writing. In spring 2005, Sigma Tau Delta, in conjunction with the History Honors Society, Phi Alpha Theta, hosted a week of literary and cultural events based on the theme of the 1940s.

NCTE

The English Department sponsors a student chapter of the National Council of Teachers of English. This organization is open to students who are considering teaching English at any level, from junior high school through college. The chapter sponsors lectures and workshops on subjects of interest to future English teachers.

Wordfest

Wordfest is not just a single event, but an annual series of readings, lectures, and discussions by practicing writers of poetry, drama, fiction, and nonfiction prose. In both the fall and spring semesters, professional writers present their own creative works and stimulate students' writing. These artists often meet classes, hold workshops, and confer with interested student writers. Among the poets, fiction writers, nonfiction writers, and playwrights who have visited Valparaiso University to offer presentations of their works and meet with students are a winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature, a former Poet Laureate of the United States, and various authors who have been recipients of the Pulitzer Prize, the National Book Award, the National Book Critics Circle Award, or other distinguished honors for their writing. Wordfest also sponsors an annual writing contest for undergraduates, recognizing outstanding works in poetry, short fiction, and nonfiction prose. Wordfest writing contest guidelines may be found at the following. Wordfest Awards Guidelines

Books & Coffee

On the first eight Thursdays of the spring semester, professors from various Departments of the University review a series of best-selling books. The audience--townspeople as well as students, faculty, and staff--is noteworthy for its lively discussion. Students are encouraged to attend to hear stimulating reviews of important works of fiction and non-fiction and to meet an interesting group of people.