The University of Houston Delta Iota chapter of Phi Beta Delta, honor society for international scholars, was recently recognized by the national organization as the outstanding chapter from among 150 chapters worldwide. Agnes deFranco (’83, ’89, ’93), associate professor in the Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management, is chapter president.

In addition, Sharon Joy (’00), music education faculty and assistant director of graduate studies at the Moores School of Music and the chapter’s membership committee chair, has been recognized with the national outstanding faculty award. Janet Fleming (’90, ’98), functional analyst with the PeopleSoft project and immediate chapter past president, has been recognized with the national outstanding staff award. Bringing additional recognition to the group, Anita Gaines (’75, ’81), director of the Office of International Student and Scholar Services and chapter liaison, has been nominated for the position of national senior vice president elect.

The chapter will hold its annual induction ceremony for new members Wednesday, April 20 in the O’Quinn Great Hall of the Athletics/Alumni Center. Larry Napper, diplomat-in-residence at UH, will be keynote speaker. During deFranco’s tenure, the chapter successfully completed a fund-raising drive to endow scholarships. The first ones will be presented at the ceremony. Oscar Gutierrez (’67), director of university advancement projects in the Division of University Advancement, is the chapter’s incoming president.