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Introduction/purpose: "Alpha Upsilon Alpha, the honor society of the Internationa Reading Association, has as its purpose the recognition and encouragement of scholarship, the development of personal and professional leadership qualities, and service to the field of reading--with special emphasis at the undergraduate and graduate levels." (Alpha Upsilon Alpha brochure produced by the IRA) This exclusive, reading honor society was established as a part of the International Reading Association in 1985. As the largest association of reading educators and professionals in the world, the IRA is uniquely qualified to recognize scholarship and promote world-wide interest in reading. The Greek letters chosen for this honor society are significant, coming from the words Anagnosis (reading), Upotrophia (scholarship), and Archon (leadership). The motto says it all, "Lege sapere aude" -- Read, dare to be wise. Benefits of membership: A sense of scholarly accomplishment in the field of reading/language arts is the primary intrinsic benefit; however, there are also extrinsic reasons to belong to AUA. Members are acknowledged for having excelled in their chosen field of study, and by actively participating, members become professionally committed to the importance of reading/language arts in education. Finally, stating membership on resumes and vitas shows prospective employers a strong commitment to the importance of literacy in education. |
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