UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Eta Psi chapter of Tri-Alpha, a national honor society for first-generation college students, inducted 93 new members in its second year at an April 25 ceremony at Penn State University Park.
The program opened with remarks from Chelsey Walls, Eta Psi chapter adviser and assistant director of the Penn State Chaiken Center for Student Success, who reflected on the strength and resilience of first-generation students and their families.
“Being first-generation often means navigating decisions, conversations and spaces with no clear roadmap,” Walls said. “It means figuring things out as you go — even when you're unsure — and showing up anyway.”
The program also included a special video message from President Neeli Bendapudi and a moment of recognition for the chapter’s outgoing executive board, who helped lead Eta Psi through its first full academic year.
“The ceremony this year was wonderful, filled with hard-working first-generation students who deserve praise for their hard work and pioneering nature,” said Nate Hendricks, outgoing chapter president. “It could not have been possible without support from our chapter adviser, Chelsey. She's done a spectacular job mentoring and assisting us in our first year as an organization.”
He also thanked his fellow board members for their service and friendship, and said he believes the incoming board will “continue to propel the honor society into exceptional territory.”
“Each of their unique experiences at Penn State will be highly beneficial to current and new members,” he said. “I cannot wait to see the work they do over the next year.”
The five incoming officers for the 2025-26 board were the first to be inducted, symbolizing their role in guiding the chapter forward. They are:
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Kaelonnah Darlich, president
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Gary Liu, vice president
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Bonnie Wang, treasurer
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Miracle Banta, marketing director
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Shuyu Qiu, engagement director