Active chapters are found on some 300 campuses in 45 states and Puerto Rico. Member institutions range in size and orientation from large state universities to small private colleges. At least once a year, local chapters induct new members and register these with the national office. Chapters sponsor a variety of local programs designed to enhance the intellectual life and to uphold the ethical standards of their academic communities. These may include scholarly lectures, panel discussions, academic contests, and receptions for prospective members.
Many chapters provide tutorial help and community service projects.
Regional and National Organization Local chapters are affiliated with one of seven regions, which convene every year to conduct their business. Each region elects a president, vice president, and secretary-treasurer from among the chapter sponsors, as well as a student representative who serves on the regional executive committee. The Convention conducts the business of the society, including election of faculty members to the National Council and presentation of awards to outstanding chapters, scholarship and fellowship winners, and distinguished alumni. The latter award recently went to CBS newsman Dan Rather, a former member of the Texas Omicron chapter at Sam Houston State University. The focus of both the National Convention and the regional conventions is scholarly presentations by student members, who share their research, creative, or performance projects with their peers.