On March 8, 1911, the former Education Club at the University of Illinois became Kappa Delta Pi, Honor Society in Education. Founded by Drs. William Bagley, Truman Lee Kelley and Thomas Edgar Musselman, this organized society for educators was established to support and honor those professionals dedicated to the field of education. It was one of the first honor societies for the field of education.
 Since that humble beginning 100 years ago, KDP has grown to become an international society of educators, 45,000 strong, that provides professional development opportunities in addition to serving educators through its original mission of recognizing and supporting excellence in education.
On March 8, 2010, KDP established an official annual recognition and celebration of its founding with the purpose to reflect on the mission and ideals of The Society and celebrate its dedication to honoring educators and their professions. Members are encouraged to recognize this day, not only to celebrate KDP’s founding, but also to appreciate all of the education professionals making up KDP, including themselves, and their place in making a difference to students, education, and the world at large.
So, on March 8, 2011, please join your Kadelpian colleagues in celebrating the accomplishments of KDP and its educational professionals. Here are a few ways to take part in Founder’s Day:
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Pay tribute to KDP at the grand Founder’s Day Centennial Celebration on March 5 at The University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign. |
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Wear the KDP colors of green and purple. |
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Wear your favorite KDP shirt, jacket, or jewelry; carry your KDP coffee mug, computer bag, or portfolio. |
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Make a KDP birthday cake for your teaching colleagues or university education department. The 100 candles are optional. If you do make a cake large enough for 100 candles, please check the building’s fire codes! |
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