Delta Omega

Delta Omega (ΔΩ) is the honorary society for public health studies, founded in 1924 at the Bloomberg School of Public Health at Johns Hopkins University by Edgar Erskine Hume and Claude W. Mitchell. The society aims to elevate the profession of public health and recognize excellence in the field. Its creation was inspired by the founders' desire to establish a fraternity-like organization for public health professionals, similar to those in other fields. The first chapter, Alpha, was established at Johns Hopkins, with expansion beginning quickly; Beta chapter at Harvard University and Gamma chapter at MIT were approved by October 1924, followed by others. Membership is based on merit, including academic performance, teaching, research, or community service. Chapters can induct up to 20% of graduates and 10% of undergraduates, with faculty induction limited to 3%. Honorary members are recognized for exceptional contributions to public health at the national or international level. Delta Omega engages in various activities, including an annual business meeting held in conjunction with the American Public Health Association (APHA). The society also hosts a national student poster competition and a curriculum award to honor innovative public health education. Chapters organize events such as scholarship competitions, research awards, socials, lectures, and community service projects. The society promotes public health education and research by preserving and reprinting classic works in the field, making them freely available on its website. With over 122 chartered chapters, most remain active, with members contributing to public health initiatives both on campuses and in communities ...