Throughout his 19 years as a collegiate chapter advisor, John Norwood has exemplified the Mission of Beta Gamma Sigma. He has gone above and beyond the call of duty to honor the achievements of his outstanding students; he has fostered excellence, advanced the values of the Society, and provided a great deal of service to Beta Gamma Sigma members on the University of Arkansas campus.
Norwood personally invites all eligible students to become members, delivering the invitation by hand in front of the invitees’ classroom peers. In the last 10 years, fewer than five have failed to accept the invitation. This represents a membership acceptance rate of approximately 99.5 percent.
Norwood’s recognition of achievement does not stop with new inductees to the Society. Five years ago, Norwood began inviting 50-year alumni to the school’s annual Beta Gamma Sigma banquet. These special guests renew their Beta Gamma Sigma pledge and receive a new lapel pin and membership certificate. The University of Arkansas BGS Chapter is believed to be the only chapter in the world to do this.
To help increase the visibility of the Society, Norwood undertook a fundraising drive during the late 1990’s to install a BGS bronze key on campus. Norwood led the drive by example, donating $1,000 of his own money to the project.
Norwood’s efforts have greatly benefited the chapter’s student members – and the Society’s lifetime members – as the enhanced visibility of the school’s BGS chapter has led to the endowment of multiple scholarships, available only to chapter members.
To honor the achievement of the chapter’s graduating members, Norwood personally purchases the BGS stoles to be worn by members at commencement. While the business school is willing to pick up this $1,000 annual expense, Norwood considers this his gift to graduating BGS seniors.
Beta Gamma Sigma thanks John Norwood for his continued dedication to the Society and service to his students, and congratulates him on his recognition as the 2008 Outstanding Chapter Advisor!
John Norwood
