The Portuguese Program at the University of Georgia celebrated a milestone as twelve outstanding students were inducted into the Sigma Pi Lambda chapter of the Phi Lambda Beta Society of Portuguese Learning. This marks the first-ever induction ceremony at UGA, commemorating the chapter's establishment in 2024.
The Sigma Pi Lambda chapter was launched through the efforts of student Sibel Olcal, whose dedication to promoting the Portuguese language and cultures of the Portuguese-speaking world helped bring the national honor society to the university. The ceremony, held on April 25, recognized the academic excellence and cultural engagement of students who have distinguished themselves in Portuguese language studies and related fields.
Phi Lambda Beta was founded in the 1960s at Vanderbilt University with the mission of recognizing and promoting excellence in the study of the Portuguese language, literature, and the diverse cultures of the Portuguese-speaking world in the United States. The society also aims to strengthen cultural ties between the American people and Lusophone nations.
With great enthusiasm, the chapter welcomed the following members:
- Amy Henriques
- Barbara Machado-Requena
- Chantelle D’Silva
- Elisa Braga
- James Brune
- Laura Isabel Vieira
- Luana Santos
- Madison Dixon
- Michel Soares do Carmo
- Sibel Olcal
- Victória Lane F. Silva
- Yasmin Paiva de Siqueira
Membership in Phi Lambda Beta is more than an academic honor—it is also a call to action. Members are encouraged to serve as ambassadors of the Portuguese language and the cultures it connects, spreading awareness and fostering understanding of the histories and identities of Portuguese-speaking nations.
Students interested in joining Sigma Pi Lambda should visit the Sigma Pi Lambda: Society of Portuguese Learning page in the Department of Romance Languages website to check eligibility and learn more about the application process.
