Michael van Reekum Inducted into Leadership Society

2012 Oct 30

On Sunday, October28, Hampden-Sydney College senior Michael Stephen van Reekum was inducted into Omicron Delta Kappa, the national leadership honor society for college men and women. The Lambda Circle of ODK was established at Hampden-Sydney in 1924, and membership is a mark of highest distinction and honor. Selection of members is based on their influence as campus leaders to better campus life and to encourage high standards in all activities.

A Madison Scholar, Michael serves as President of the honorary society Psi Chi (psychology) and as Academic Officer for the social fraternity Lambda Chi Alpha. He has played varsity football, was named to the Academic All-ODAC, and received the Howell L. Gruver Award for the highest grade point average for students in football. Michael is the student representative to the Academic Affairs Committee, is active in RAMPS (Ramp Access Made Possible by Students), and is a member of the Goochland County Volunteer Fire-Rescue. He is a member of the Garnet & Grey Society (admissions tour guide) and the academic honor society Phi Beta Kappa. A psychology major, he is a graduate of Collegiate School and is the son of F.B. van Reekum and the late J.R. van Reekum, Jr. of Manakin Sabot.

A private college for men, Hampden-Sydney is nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Report. The College is known for its liberal arts curriculum, the Honor Code which stresses individual and collective responsibility, and a focus on the needs of young men.

PHOTO: Front row, left to right: Ke Shang, Beijing, China; Michael van Reekum, Manakin Sabot, VA; Richard Pantele, Richmond, VA. Middle row: John Dekarske, Franklin, VA; Walter McCoy, Goodview, VA; Alex Price, Fairfax, VA; Lewis Bell, Norcross, GA. Back row: Josh Shelton, Richmond, VA; Will Smith, Hampden-Sydney, VA; Diego Velasco, Richmond, VA; Ned Bowden, Crozier VA; John Bishop, Guntersville, AL.