Student Life

In view of USD’s Mission to develop the whole person and understanding that learning takes place in a variety of educational contexts, the Department of Student Life offers numerous opportunities for students to become actively engaged in student life. The department also partners with faculty and staff from other areas in an effort to link cognitive understanding with practical experiences that facilitate personal maturity, interpersonal effectiveness, and ethical leadership.

Student Government and Activities

All undergraduate students belong to the Associated Students of the University of San Diego, a self-governing group acting under the authority given by its approved Associated Students Constitution. Officers of the Associated Students (AS) and members of its governing board are elected or appointed by the students. Under their leadership, the students plan and manage student events and funds. Through participation on several faculty and faculty-administration committees, students share in decisions on university affairs.

The Associated Students serves as both the student government and student programming board for the USD undergraduate campus. The Associated Students Leadership team is comprised of a president, vice presidents, directors, and senators. The team plans events, works on solving student issues, financially supports several campus services, facilitates communication between student organizations, and serves as the official student voice to administration.

The Associated Students have the following focus areas: finance, academics, marketing, student issues, programming, multicultural relations, and student organizations.

Finance

Associated Students oversees an annual budget, budget committee, and inter-club council budget process. Associated Students is charged with allocating funds.

Academics

Associated Students serves as advocates with regard to all academic matters. The team works on academic programming, issues, and honor council.

Marketing

This area provides marketing/communication for all Associated Students programs, events, and issues. This area coordinates marketing and communication, community relations, and elections.

Student Issues

The Associated Students, along with representatives from varying groups on campus, assesses and remedies student concerns.

Student Organizations

This area coordinates the recognition and support of over 80 clubs/organizations.

Student Programming

This area coordinates a variety of programs for the student body including concerts, showcase, social, multicultural, and the arts.

Multicultural

The Associated Students supports issues and offers programs geared toward multicultural awareness and competence. The Associated Students acts as a liaison to the United Front Multicultural Center, Women’s Center, Ethnic Studies, and clubs and organizations.

Associate Students Committees, Programming Areas, and Centers

Alumni Relations

The Director of Alumni Relations is responsible for planning all of the traditional events on campus including the annual Homecoming event. Other events may include alumni dinners and networking events.

Arts

The Director of Arts publishes USD’s literary magazine, Asylum, and also coordinates the popular “Open Mic Night” programs in Aromas coffeehouse. In an attempt to broaden the experience of campus life, events that highlight the diverse makeup of USD and surrounding San Diego communities are presented.

Athletics

The Director of Athletics promotes athletics and works to promote school spirit. The committee coordinates tailgate parties and other promotion activities.

Budget/ICCBC

The Associated Students Budget Committee consists of individuals who meet on a bi-weekly basis to decide the allocation of funds to USD’s various clubs and organizations. The committee allocates resources to clubs and organizations providing services/events to the entire student body. In addition, the Inter-Club Council Budget Committee (ICCBC) allocates funds to clubs and organizations once a semester.

CASA

The Center for Awareness, Service, and Action committee is responsible for outreach and service to the San Diego community. Numerous ongoing projects link service with learning about social issues. Activities include working with the homeless, senior citizens, and youth.

Community Relations

The Community Relations committee establishes contact with, and gains support of, alumni and businesses outside of USD. In addition, this area focuses on the public relations for the Associated Students.

Concerts

This committee provides quality music entertainment. Members participate in stage crew, production, hospitality, security, and publicity for major concerts, as well as many musical events held at the Ernest and Jean Hahn University Center, Aromas coffeehouse, Shiley Theatre, and the Jenny Craig Pavilion.

Elections

The Elections Committee is involved in helping to organize elections, enforcing campaign policies, and managing voting polls on campus.

Historian

The Historian is responsible for recording the history of Associated Students through video, pictures, news clippings, and written documentation.

Honors Council

This committee is responsible for developing and promoting policies that work to build a strong academic environment conducive to supporting high ethics and honorable conduct among the student body. It also provides an open forum for issues related to academic honor and ethics.

Marketing

This committee prepares advertising materials ranging from flyers, posters, and banners to full-sized displays.

Media

The Associated Students provides funding and support to USDtv.

Multicultural Issues

This committee is responsible for representing students’ cultural concerns and needs.

Multicultural Programming

This committee works with the AS Vice President of Multicultural Relations, and is responsible for programming that enhances multicultural awareness on campus through events that focus on diversity and cultural understanding.

Showcase

Showcase events may include hypnotists, films, comedians, or other novelty acts.

Social Issues

This committee is responsible for planning events addressing social issues and coordinating the university’s annual Social Issues Conference.

Sustainability

This area researches and promotes recycling, green practices and an energy friendly campus.

Traffic Court

Responsibilities for this committee include conducting the student court that deals with parking violations and appeals.

Wellness

This area coordinates wellness initiatives including alcohol education, AIDS awareness, and fitness.

Women’s Center

The Women’s Center supports intellectual, physical, emotional, spiritual, and cultural development. Its programs facilitate personal transformation and inspire both women and men to unlock ambition and skills to achieve personal power. The Women’s Center promotes women’s dignity and well-being and the belief that communities are enriched by diverse points of view.

Undergraduate Student Organizations

The following is a list of registered undergraduate student organizations as of Fall 2008. New organizations are always being formed. For more information about a specific organization or to express interest in joining, contact the Student Leadership and Involvement Center, Hahn University Center, Room 161, at (619) 260-4802.

Academic and Professional Organizations

20/20 Pre-Optometry is a club providing interactive learning experiences such as vision screenings and Optometry Admission Test and Optometry School prerequisite materials to serve the campus and local community.

Accounting Society aims to help students learn about the various aspects of the Financial Information profession through activities and involvement with professionals, faculty, and peers.

Alpha Kappa Delta, the International Sociology Honor Society, is dedicated to the ideal of “investigating humanity for the purpose of service.” Its goal is to promote human welfare through the association of a group interested in developing scientific knowledge that may be applied to the solution of social problems.

Alpha Kappa Psi is a co-educational business fraternity that aims to foster scientific research in the fields of commerce, accounting, and finance.

American Humanics provides speakers, field trips, and seminars aimed at students interested in leadership careers in human service organizations.

American Medical Students Association is a nation-wide, student run association of active pre-medical students committed to representing the concerns of physicians-in-training.

American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) represents the USD student body to the American Society of Mechanical Engineering Board and aims to spread the word about fun contests, interesting conferences and build connections between the current and past students in the Mechanical Engineering program.

Anthropology Club seeks to bring together students interested in the many diverse fields of Anthropology.

Beta Alpha Psi is a co-educational accounting fraternity that provides members with opportunities for academic, professional, and personal development in the fields of accounting and finance.

Biology/Oceans Club seeks to create a social and academic environment for all students interested in the different realms of the biological sciences through field trips, community service, and other activities.

Chemistry Club is an organization providing social service and professional activites for chemistry majors.

Delta Sigma Pi is a professional fraternity organized to foster the study of business in universities and to promote closer affiliation between the commercial world and students of commerce.

Ethnic Studies Student Organization is designed to celebrate issues of diversity and to contribute to the learning of diversity throughout campus.

German Club seeks to create a group where all students interested in German can meet.

Honors Student Board is the leadership body of the Honors Program, which is designed to provide students with superior ability and accomplishment with challenges and opportunities that will allow them to realize their potential more fully.

The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) is a scientific and educational organization directed toward the advancement of the theory and practice of electrical, electronics, communications and computer engineering.

National Society of Collegiate Scholars (NSCS) is the nation’s premiere honor organization for high-achieving students whose activities include leadership development, service programs, and more.

Phi Alpha Delta is an international law fraternity whose purpose is to form strong bond uniting students and teachers with members of the Bench and Bar in a fraternal fellowship designed to advance the ideals of liberty and equal justice under law.

Phi Alpha Theta is a professional society whose mission is to promote the study of history through the encouragement of research, good teaching, publication, and the exchange of learning and ideas among historians.

Phi Delta Epsilon is the largest and only International professional medical fraternity whose benefits include: community service, leadership development, doctor shadowing, MCAT prep-course discount, professional interaction and networking, and many other things to make you the best candidate possible for medical school.

Philosophy Club consists of students and faculty that wish to further the conversation of philosophy as a field of study and theory in general at the university.

Pi Sigma Alpha is a national political science honor society aimed “to stimulate scholarship and intelligent interest in political science.”

Psychology Club is available to stimulate, encourage, and maintain the social, academic, and professional growth of students interested in the field of psychology.

RX for Success serves undergraduate students pursuing a pharmacy-related career through guest speakers, various events, and informational meetings.

Student International Business Council (SIBC) is a leadership training organization committed to promoting social responsibility in today’s global business community. Their student motto is “Peace through Commerce.”

The Dental Club prepares, assists and educates students interested in pursuing a career in dentistry by providing leadership and community service opportunities in a cooperative and positive environment.

Cultural and Ethnic Organizations

The United Front Multicultural Center was established in 1997 to promote the goals and objectives of a coalition of student organizations, known collectively as the United Front. The objective of the United Front Multicultural Center (UFMC) is to contribute to the creation of a campus environment which respects and supports diversity and inclusion. The UFMC aids in developing a campus community that is culturally diverse and responsive to changes in local, regional, and national demographics. The center provides programs (e.g celebrations of various history/heritage months, observances of international holidays, cultural performances) and trainings that address issues of diversity. Ultimately, the UFMC serves as an educational resource for the university. For example, the Rainbow Educators aim to help the university move toward greater awareness, knowledge, and inclusion of its lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered (LGBT) community. All in all, the UFMC continuously works to contest the dominance of prejudices and “-isms” at USD.

AIESEC is the largest student organization in the world fostering international cooperation and understanding with an overriding commitment to the local community.

Aikane O’Hawai’i (Friends of Hawaii) promotes and perpetuates Pacific Islander culture and spirit on campus as well as to the surrounding San Diego community.

Association of Chicana Activists promotes the recruitment and retention of Chicanas/Latinas in higher education. It is a group that promotes leadership development and community service.

Black Student Union promotes the recruitment and retention of African-Americans in higher education and provides cultural programs to address African-American issues.

Board of Asian Student Organizations

Filipino “Ugnayan” Student Organization is aimed at promoting and preserving Filipino American heritage and provides educational programs that address these issues.

International Student Organization is aimed at promoting the international student experience and perspectives through educational programs.

Jewish Student Union promotes Jewish faith and educational programs.

Movimiento Estudiantil Chicana/o de Aztlan (MEChA) promotes the recruitment, retention, and education of Chicana/o and Latina/o students, and promotes leadership development and community service.

Native American Student Organization serves Native American students and addresses Indigenous issues on campus.

PRIDE offers friendship, alliance, and mutual assistance to undergraduate men and women who are gay, lesbian, or bisexual, and to any undergraduate ally.

Taiwan Student Association aims to help new students and foster Taiwanese cultural exchange.

Fraternities and Sororities

All of the following Greek-letter organizations offer lifelong friendships, activities in support of academic excellence in all major fields, opportunities for community service, campus involvement, networking with alumni/ae, and social activities. Students are eligible for membership after completing one semester at USD (unless transferring in with 24 or more units of college credit). The women’s groups are coordinated by the Panhellenic Council, and the men’s groups are coordinated by the Interfraternity Council (IFC). In addition, the nationally-recognized Order of Omega honors men and women who have attained a high standard of leadership in inter-Greek activities.

International Women’s Fraternities/Sororities
Alpha Chi Omega
Alpha Delta Pi
Alpha Phi
Gamma Phi Beta
Kappa Alpha Theta
Kappa Kappa Gamma

Men’s Fraternities
Beta Theta Pi
Delta Tau Delta
Lambda Chi Alpha
Phi Kappa Theta
Sigma Phi Epsilon

Recreational and Sports Clubs
Dancesport Club
Equestrian Club
Men’s Lacrosse Club
Men’s Soccer Club
Men’s Volleyball Club
Rugby Club
Running Club
Student Athlete Advisory Council
Surf Club
Ultimate Frisbee Club
USD Argentine Tango Club (Toro Tango)
USD Club Baseball
USD Dive Club
USD Kiteboarding Club
Water Ski Club
Women’s Lacrosse Club
Women’s Soccer Club
Women’s Volleyball Club

Religious Affiliated Organizations

Every Nation Campus Ministries is to be a diverse group of Christian students, staff, and associate members who are committed to serving the USD campus.

Intervarsity Christian Fellowship is a forum to bring together Christians and non-Christians alike through Bible studies, outreach, and social events.

Students For Life aims to protect the sanctity of life in all of its forms through prayer and service, as well as to raise awareness of life issues.

Special Interest Organizations

Ambassadors Club is a student organization sponsored by the Office of Undergraduate Admissions whose members provide campus tours for prospective USD students and help with college fairs.

Association of Environmental Professionals (AEP) USD Chapter is an organization of professionals dedicated to the enhancement, maintenance and protection of the natural and human environment.

Basement Society is a student organization made to promote the arts in the university and give the students and teachers a place to express themselves.

Best Buddies is dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with intellectual disabilities by providing opportunities for one-on-one friendships and integrated employment.

College Republicans is an organization for students who support the Republican Party.

Film Club promotes film culture on campus and provides a place where film lovers can engage conversation through facilitating film screenings on campus, visiting film festivals, making films, and analyzing and critiquing films.

Founders Club preserves the spirit of the founders of USD – the Religious of the Sacred Heart and the Diocese of San Diego.

One Good Club provides interrelation among ambitious USD students who are involved with the community of San Diego and seek to make a difference in society.

RHA (Residence Hall Association) is an organization that aims to improve campus life for residents.

STAND is an international student anti-genocide coalition that organizes to prevent and stop genocide whenever and wherever it may occur.

Student Alumni Association connects alumni and students, uniting the University of San Diego’s past with its future.

The Frontline is an organization dedicated to creating passion and support amongst the student body for USD Basketball.

USD Outing Guide Club are volunteer guides for Outdoor Adventures which leads outing trips.

Honor And Professional Societies

Accounting Society helps students learn about the various aspects of the accounting and financial information professions through activities and involvement with professionals, faculty, and peers. The mission of the Society includes the following: to provide members with opportunities for academic, personal, and professional development so that they may contribute effectively and ethically to their organizations and society; to serve the community and develop members as conscientious members of the community through participation in civic activities; to build unity within the club and establish friendships and networks that extend beyond the college career; to educate members about the opportunities provided by all sectors of the financial information professions including accounting, finance, real estate, information technology, and supply chain management; to aspire to continuous improvement in all activities so that members may perform effectively in today’s business environment; and most importantly, to have fun with fellow classmates and members.

Alpha Epsilon Delta is the international pre-health professional honor society. Its goals are to improve the quality of pre-medical education and to promote cooperation among pre-medical students, medical students, and educators.

Alpha Kappa Delta, the international sociology honor society, is dedicated to the ideal of “investigating humanity for the purpose of service.” The goal of Alpha Kappa Delta is to promote human welfare through the association of a fellowship group interested in developing scientific knowledge that may be applied to the solution of social problems. Eligibility for membership in this society requires that students be officially declared sociology majors or demonstrate a serious interest in sociology. Students must have achieved junior standing, successfully completed at least four courses in sociology, and accumulated the equivalent of a grade point average of 3.25.

Alpha Kappa Psi is a co-educational business fraternity that aims to foster scientific research in the fields of commerce, accounting, and finance.

Alpha Pi Mu is an honor society for industrial engineering students that will provide a common ground on which outstanding young engineers could exchange ideas, and to provide experiences that could help their future professional development. It serves as an organization to recognize top junior and senior industrial engineering students for their academic achievements and to increase professional development and promote networking among faculty and undergraduate students.

Alpha Sigma Gamma is an international real estate honorary society open to undergraduate and graduate students who are pursuing an interest in real estate. It is an affiliate organization with the American Real Estate Society, an international professional real estate organization. The main purposes of the society are to recognize and reward superior academic performance in real estate; encourage research and teaching in real estate; and recognize individuals who exemplify the intelligent and ethical application of real estate knowledge. In order to be eligible for the society, undergraduate students must have completed at least 75 percent of total credit hours with a minimum 3.25 grade point average. For graduate eligibility, students must have completed at least 50 percent of total credit hours with a minimum 3.5 grade point average. All students must have also taken at least six credit hours in real estate-related courses with a minimum 3.75 grade point average.

American Medical Student Association (AMSA) is a student-governed, national organization committed to representing the concerns of physicians-in-training. With a membership of medical students, premedical students, interns, residents and practicing physicians from across the country, AMSA continues its commitment to improving medical training and the nation’s health.

American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) is a 120,000-member professional organization focused on technical, educational, and research issues of the engineering and technology community. ASME conducts one of the world’s largest technical publishing operations, holds numerous technical conferences worldwide, and offers hundreds of professional development courses each year. ASME sets internationally recognized industrial and manufacturing codes and standards that enhance public safety. It is ASME’s vision to be the premier organization for promoting the art, science, and practice of mechanical and multidisciplinary engineering and allied sciences to our diverse communities throughout the world. Its mission is to promote and enhance the technical competency and professional well-being of its members, and, through quality programs and activities in mechanical engineering, better enable its practitioners to contribute to the well-being of humankind.

Beta Alpha Psi is a national honors fraternity that enhances the university educational experience by providing interaction with finance, information systems, and accounting professionals; conducting technical and personal development programs through campus, regional, and national meetings; and promoting and encouraging community service. Beta Alpha Psi is a co-curricular experience with an established set of activity and program guidelines that, if fulfilled, bring great value to student pledges and members. The local chapter of Beta Alpha Psi aspires to instill in its members the following goals and values of the fraternity: to inspire a desire for self-improvement; to foster high moral and ethical standards; to encourage and give recognition to scholastic and professional excellence; to cultivate a sense of responsibility and service; to promote the collegiate study of financial information professions; and to provide for its members opportunities to associate with business professionals.

Beta Gamma Sigma is the highest international recognition a business student anywhere in the world can receive in an undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral program at a school accredited by AACSB International. To be eligible for membership, the academic ranking of those being considered must place them in the upper 7 percent of the junior class, upper 10 percent of the senior class, or upper 20 percent of the graduating master’s class. Local chapters may require higher standards. While almost 300,000 students receive a bachelor’s or master’s degree in business in the U.S. each year, only about 19,000 are elected to membership in Beta Gamma Sigma.

Delta Sigma Pi is a professional fraternity organized to foster the study of business in universities; encourage scholarship, social activity, and the association of students for mutual advancement through research and practice; promote closer affiliation between the commercial world and students of commerce; and further a higher standard of commercial ethics and culture, as well as the civic and commercial welfare of the community.

Eta Kappa Nu Association is a national electrical and computer engineering honor society founded in 1904 to encourage excellence in engineering education for the benefit of the public. Student inductees have conferred honor upon engineering education by distinguished scholarship, activities, leadership, and exemplary character as students in electrical or computer engineering. Professional members are inducted based on their attainments in the field of electrical or computer engineering. Eta Kappa Nu chapters seek to bring society members into a closer union to foster a culture of service and leadership in the engineering community and community at large, and to aid in continuing their professional development through association with alumni and others who have attained prominence in the industry.

Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers disseminates knowledge of the theory and practice of all aspects of electrical engineering, electronics, radio, allied branches of engineering or related arts and sciences, as well as the furtherance of the professional development of students.

Institute of Industrial Engineers informs students about events and opportunities in industrial engineering.

Kappa Gamma Pi is the national Catholic college graduate honor society. Members are graduates who have demonstrated academic excellence and outstanding service and leadership during their college years. As candidates, they pledge to continue to provide examples of scholarship, leadership, and service in their personal and professional lives. This commitment is the difference that distinguishes nomination to Kappa Gamma Pi as one of the most relevant and prestigious awards on campus. Kappa Gamma Pi was founded in 1926 at the National Catholic Educational Association Conference of Catholic Colleges. Today, more than 41,000 graduates of 139 Catholic colleges are Kappa Gamma Pi members. They live throughout the United States and in many foreign countries. Their successful lives and careers exemplify outstanding leadership and service in church, profession, and community. Kappa Gamma Pi has members from the first graduating classes of USD to the present. These members are Catholic men and women as well as men and women of other faith communities. In January, graduating seniors who have a GPA of 3.5 or above receive a letter from the Provost informing them that they are qualified by reason of their academic achievement to apply for membership in Kappa Gamma Pi. If they have exemplified outstanding leadership and service during their years at USD, they are encouraged to submit a letter of recommendation and an essay to the selection committee. Kappa Gamma Pi sponsors the St. Catherine Medal, awarded at the Honors Convocation, for outstanding leadership and service as well as the Cornaro Scholarship for members of Kappa Gamma Pi pursuing graduate studies. Currently, the Cornaro Scholarship is $3,000.

Lambda Alpha, the national collegiate honor society for Anthropology, was founded to encourage and stimulate scholarship and research in anthropology by recognizing and honoring superior achievement in the discipline among students, faculty, and other persons engaged in the study of anthropology. Undergraduate students who have completed not less than 12 semester-hours in anthropology, with a grade point average of not less than 3.0 in these courses, and a cumulative quality point average of not less than 2.5 may apply for membership.

Lambda Pi Eta is the official communication studies honor society of the National Communication Association (NCA). The goals of Lambda Pi Eta are to recognize, foster, and reward outstanding scholastic achievement; stimulate interest in the field of communication; promote and encourage professional development among communication majors; provide an opportunity to discuss and exchange ideas about the field; establish and maintain close relationships and understanding between faculty and students; and explore options for further graduate studies. To be eligible for membership, students must have completed 60 semester hours in undergraduate credit courses; have a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0; have completed the equivalent of 12 semester hours in communication courses with a grade point average of at least 3.25 in these courses; be in the upper 35 percent of their graduating class; and be currently enrolled as a full-time student in good standing.

Mortar Board is a national honor society for college seniors which was founded in 1918 and chartered on the USD campus in the fall of 2000. The society recognizes in its members the qualities of scholastic achievement, outstanding leadership, and dedicated service to the university and the community. There are over 200 active chapters of Mortar Board at colleges throughout the country. To be eligible for membership, students must have junior standing in the spring semester with an overall GPA that places them in the top 35 percent of their class. Moreover, students must have participated and excelled in leadership and service activities during their college years. They must submit an information sheet, a resume, a letter of recommendation from a USD faculty member, and a personal essay for review by the current Mortar Board members. Admission to Mortar Board at USD is highly competitive and is restricted to approximately 30 students each year. USD’s Mortar Board chapter is an active student organization and expects full participation from its members. Chapter members participate in bi-weekly meetings, an annual Faculty Appreciation Dinner, tutoring and other service activities, interaction with San Diego’s Mortar Board Alumni Chapter, social events, and fundraising for the STRIVE scholarship, which chapter members established for college-bound seniors at Kearny High School who have excelled in scholarship, leadership, and service. Mortar Board members have the opportunity to apply for local and national Mortar Board scholarships and fellowships to be used for graduate study. Each year in February a letter is mailed to juniors who are in the top 35 percent of their class. The letter invites those students to submit their essay, letter of recommendation, and other required information for consideration for Mortar Board membership. Selected students are “tapped” in one of their classes by USD Mortar Board members. The Mortar Board Initiation ceremony occurs in April.

National Society of Collegiate Scholars aims to recognize and celebrate high achievement among first- and second-year students in all academic disciplines; encourage and promote high standards throughout the collegiate experience; provide opportunities for personal growth and leadership development for members; organize and encourage learning opportunities through community service; and foster an overall appreciation for the value of the higher education experience.

Omicron Delta Epsilon is open to economics majors who have demonstrated excellence in the study of economics. Membership makes available participation in extracurricular programs, lectures, discussions, and meetings furthering the study of economics.

Order of Omega seeks to recognize students who have attained a high standard of leadership in inter-Greek activities; encourage such students to continue along this line; inspire other students to strive for similar conspicuous attainment; bring together the most representative fraternity and sorority members; create an organization which will help to mold the sentiment of the institution on questions of local and intercollegiate affairs; and bring together members of the faculty, alumni, and student members of the institution’s fraternities and sororities on a basis of mutual interest, understanding, and helpfulness.

Phi Alpha Delta is a professional organization for undergraduate women and men interested in law. We provide a friendly forum for the exchange of information about law schools, legal scholarship, and legal careers. As part of the Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity International, we strive to promote the principles of liberty and equal justice under the law, inspire excellence in scholarship, encourage the professional development of our members, and develop friendships that will last a lifetime.

Phi Alpha Theta promotes the study of history through the encouragement of research, good teaching, publication, and the exchange of learning and ideas. We seek to bring students, teachers, and writers of history together for intellectual and social exchanges, which promote and assist historical research and publication by our members in a variety of ways.

Phi Beta Kappa is the oldest and most prestigious academic honor society in the United States. The society was established in 1776 and has evolved to become the nation’s leading advocate for the liberal arts and sciences at the undergraduate level. The society’s distinctive emblem, the golden key, is widely recognized as a symbol of academic achievement. USD received its Phi Beta Kappa charter in 2003 and is one of only 270 chapters nationwide. To be eligible for membership, students must be majoring in an area of the liberal arts or sciences, hold senior standing, and have attained a GPA that places them in the top 10 percent of their class. Additional criteria for selection include intellectual integrity, tolerance, and a broad range of intellectual interests. Each spring a campus committee composed of Phi Beta Kappa faculty invites a select group of students to become members in the Society. Students who accept the invitation are then initiated into the Phi Beta Kappa Society in a formal installation ceremony.

Phi Delta Epsilon serves to promote fellowship and mentoring, equality, and unity; to promote the highest scientific and educational standards in the field of medicine; to promote the highest standards of ethics in the practice of medicine, medical teaching, and research; to promote nonprofit group service to the community; to promote discussions at all fraternity levels of current social and economic issues as related to the practice of medicine.

Phi Sigma Tau serves as a means to award distinction to students who have both high scholarship and a personal interest in philosophy; promote student interest in research and advanced study in this field; provide opportunities for the publication of student research papers of merit; encourage a professional spirit and friendship among those who have displayed marked ability in this field; and popularize interest in philosophy among the general collegiate public.

Pi Delta Phi is the national French honor society in which French majors and minors who maintain high scholastic standing and serve actively in the French Club are eligible for membership.

Pi Sigma Alpha promotes the discipline of political science, which includes the related fields of government, public administration, and international relations; stimulates productive interest in political science; provides a forum for free intellectual discussion; and promotes the continuing search for knowledge by way of speakers, presentations of papers, and use of informal discussions while adhering to the principles of freedom of expression and thought.

Psi Chi has a purpose to encourage, stimulate, and maintain excellence in scholarship of the individual members in all fields, particularly psychology, and to advance the science of psychology.

Sigma Delta Pi is the National Collegiate Hispanic Honor Society in which Spanish majors and minors who maintain a high scholastic standing are eligible for membership. Sigma Delta Pi is a member of the Association of College Honor Societies and is affiliated with the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese.

Sigma Pi Sigma exists to honor outstanding scholarship in physics, to encourage interest in physics among students at all levels, to promote service to all, to provide for a fellowship of persons who have excelled in physics, and to help them in their professional development.

Sigma Tau Delta is the international English honor society. The USD chapter, Alpha Nu Mu, confers distinction for high achievement in the study of English language and literature, provides cultural stimulation on campus and promotes the surrounding community interest in literature and the English language.

Sigma Theta Tau International is the honor society for the profession of nursing. The honor of membership is conferred on baccalaureate and graduate students in recognition of their superior scholarly achievements. The purpose of the organization is to recognize superior scholarship, foster high professional standards, encourage creative work, strengthen commitment to the ideals and purposes of nursing, and recognize the development of leadership qualities. Founded in 1922 by six nursing students, there are now chapters in more than 94 countries.

Society of Women Engineers is a national nonprofit, educational service organization dedicated to making known the need for women engineers and encouraging young women to consider an engineering education. Its mission is to inspire women to achieve full potential in careers as engineers and leaders, to expand the image of the engineering profession as a positive force in improving quality of life, and to demonstrate the value of diversity.

Student International Business Council is a privately-endowed international leadership training organization that offers students the opportunity to have real world experience in a variety of fields. The council is dedicated to promoting its motto of “Peace through Commerce.” The council completes several projects per year in conjunction with business leaders in the San Diego area and all over the world. There are also great networking and internship opportunities available, both domestically and internationally. Members can be awarded fully funded international internships, leadership forums, and international conferences. In furthering its service-oriented goals, the council developed a publicly recognized Rotaract Club with many connections to rotary institutes in the San Diego area and in Jamaica. The University of San Diego Chapter of SIBC was founded in 2002, with fellow chapters at Notre Dame University and Benedictine College. The council maintains a minimum 3.0 grade point average. The Student International Business council presents a unique combination of invaluable real-world experience, excellent networking opportunities, and the chance to connect with fellow students in a fun, educational environment.

Theta Alpha Kappa, the national honor society for theological and religious studies, recognizes outstanding scholarship in theological and religious studies and supports further study of these subjects. Membership is an honor conferred on students who have demonstrated academic excellence in these fields and in their general education.

Hahn University Center

The Hahn University Center offers meeting areas, spaces for cultural events, and several indoor and outdoor dining spaces. In addition to the Main Student and Faculty Dining Rooms, and the Marketplace on the main level, students will find Torero Grille, the campus grill, on the lower level, which is open late into the evening.

The Center houses the offices for student government, student publications, undergraduate student organizations, as well as the Office of Student Affairs and University Ministry. A 400-seat multi-purpose room allows presentations of films, speakers, cultural programs, popular entertainment programs, and exhibits. The Center also includes a student lounge, Student Computing, the Women’s Center, United Front Multicultural Center, Outdoor Recreation rentals, and a ticket booth.

Hahn University Center Hours:
Monday through Friday 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Sunday 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

University Ministry

The University Ministry Center strives to nourish, support, and challenge the faith development of all members of the USD community. Through diverse partnerships across campus, University Ministry works to foster an intellectual environment in which USD students’ academic and social development is amplified through complementary spiritual growth.

Persons of all religious traditions and those still searching for their religious identity are invited to take part in University Ministry’s liturgies, programs, activities, and services. In addition to a vibrant Roman Catholic sacramental life, University Ministry offers immersion trips, local service opportunities, retreats, small faith-sharing communities, pastoral counseling and companionship, scripture study, and all-faith services.

All of the center’s programs are designed to empower students, staff, faculty, and alumni to:

• build a faith community
• develop a mature faith
• educate and work for justice
• nurture personal development
• cultivate leadership for church and society
• form a Christian conscience

Those interested in learning more about the Catholic Church or preparing for the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation) may take part in programs presented from mid-September through May. Likewise, University Ministry staff members are available to assist in preparation for marriage in Founders Chapel, the Immaculata, or in another Catholic church.

The USD community gathers in prayer each Sunday evening for Eucharistic liturgies in Founders Chapel at both 7 and 9 p.m.. During these vibrant celebrations the campus community is renewed and refreshed for the on-going work of finding God in the midst of study, work, and play.

For more information on our center, please visit us in the Hahn University Center, Room 238, call (619) 260-4735, or go to www.sandiego.edu/administration/missionministry/

Campus Recreation

The Recreation Center offers members of the university community many opportunities to use their leisure time constructively and to complement USD’s academic experience. Students are encouraged to use the facilities of the Sports Center at the east end of campus. Facilities include a heated swimming pool, a six-basket gym, two indoor volleyball courts, four tennis courts, and weight and exercise rooms. Other on-campus facilities include the Jenny Craig Pavilion Fitness Center, Mission Café Fitness Center, Manchester multi-use field, softball field, soccer/multi-use field by the Mission dorms, and eight more tennis courts adjacent to Copley Library. In addition, sailing, water-skiing, and surfing facilities and equipment at the Mission Bay Aquatic Center are available on a fee basis for use by the USD community.

Students may also participate in the many recreation classes offered by the Campus Recreation department. Some of the classes include: golf, scuba, martial arts, yoga, volleyball, tennis, and many additional leisure activity courses. In addition, students are encouraged to sign up as free agents or organize teams to participate in the more than 20 intramural leagues. Other leisure programs available throughout the year include a Swim Training Program and Fit and Active. Fit and Active is a flexible program which enables participants to take an unlimited number of fitness classes per week on an exclusive drop-in schedule for one low fee. For additional information, contact the Recreational Sports Office at (619) 260-4533.

Intramural Sports

With a full schedule of men’s, women’s, co-recreation teams, and individual sports activities, the intramural program offers every student, faculty, and staff member the opportunity to participate in competitive as well as recreational sports. Activities include softball, football, basketball, floor hockey, bowling, tennis, soccer, golf, running events, volleyball, dodge ball, table tennis, and innertube water polo.

Sports Clubs

Sports clubs are student-registered organizations, which are administered through the Campus Recreation department. Some of the competitive clubs include: men’s and women’s lacrosse, men’s and women’s rugby, men’s and women’s soccer, men’s and women’s volleyball, equestrian team, surf team, water polo team, water ski team, ultimate frisbee team, baseball team and roller hockey team. These clubs compete in league and national collegiate club memberships. In addition there are recreation clubs that include: running, scuba, recreation activities club, and martial arts. These clubs may compete in events, however they tend to sponsor recreational activities as their primary function. Individuals can join competitive clubs through the respective club tryout process. For more information on sports clubs go to www.sandiego.edu/campus recreation.

Outdoor Adventures

The Outdoor Programs Office offers services to students, faculty, staff, and alumni for a reduced price, encouraging self-growth and self-expression. Outdoor Adventures trip programs offer outings such as rock climbing, kayaking, canoeing, backpacking, hiking, and outdoor cooking, as well as a rental program for people interested in planning a personal outing. Another popular program is the customized trip program where private outings for groups are planned based on their specific requests. The REACH-teambuilding program creates individual programs for groups that would like to enhance their communication skills, problem-solving abilities, group or self-awareness, or just have fun doing activities such as a low or high element challenge course. Our challenge course program partners with a local camp to offer weekend retreats. Additionally, the program offers guide development and facilitator training programs, an outdoor RLC, and orientation adventure freshman wilderness program. The office is located in Hahn University Center, Room 136 or go to www.sandiego.edu/outdoor

Dean of Students Area

The Dean of Students Area has the responsibility of creating opportunities that enhance the educational experiences of all students. This is done by providing a wide range of programs and services. Beginning with the first day students arrive on campus, The Preceptorial/First Year Experience introduces students to liberal arts education, and the challenges and rewards of academic excellence. Our residential learning program focus on each class year’s developmental needs.
The Dean of Students Area is comprised of the following departments and programs: Residential Life (Housing), Student Learning Initiatives, The United Front Multicultural Center, the Women’s Center, Student Conduct, Graduate Student Life, and Torero Days.

Residential Life (Housing)

The purpose of the Office of Residential Life is to develop effective communities to enhance and support the mission of the university and facilitate student learning. Resident students can expect to find supportive faculty, students, and staff, along with a variety of resources and programs, all focused on the university’s core values. Residence halls are not only a place to sleep and study, but they also provide an environment in which students are able to experience personal growth and development. Living in our residential communities provides students the opportunity to grow and find meaning through friendships, exploration of ideas, and involvement both on and off campus.

Resident living accommodations house approximately 2,600 undergraduate students. Rooms are available in traditional dormitory style, suite-style living areas, and apartment units. Residence hall staff are present in each living area to serve as a resource for students.

Residence halls will be open for occupancy a few days prior to the first day of classes each semester. Exact dates are stated in the terms and conditions of the Housing and Dining Services Contract. Each room must be vacated 24 hours after the student’s last final examination, or by noon on the day following the last day of final examinations, whichever comes first. The residence halls are closed during Christmas, Intersession, and spring break. The academic year housing contract does not include housing during these vacation periods, except for residents of Manchester Village and the Presidio and University Terrace Apartments, although students may leave personal belongings in their rooms. Students have the option of contracting for housing during Intersession or spring break if they will be involved in academic coursework or employment at USD. Specific terms and conditions regarding student housing are included in the Housing and Dining Services Contract that is provided to all resident students.

Community Service-Learning

Through service, USD students are engaged to learn in partnership with the community, and make life-long commitments to promote social change and justice. For over 20 years the Center for Community Service-Learning has worked with the San Diego community. From direct service, addressing real needs identified by the community, to advocacy/activism, the center provides students with valuable experiential education opportunities.

CASA (Center for Awareness, Service, and Action) gives any student the opportunity to serve at any time. Located in the Hahn University Center, Room 113, CASA sponsors a wide range of meaningful student-led community service projects.

Through course-based service-learning, students are able to serve and learn in the context of the classroom. The community becomes part of the classroom and students are able to see and experience first hand what they are learning from their professors.

Many service projects address a variety of social issues which are brought to light and examined by the Social Issues Committee (SIC). Providing learning opportunities through an annual conference with major speakers, team-taught classes, and cultural events, SIC bridges the gap between service and activism.

The Center for Community Service-Learning is located in Maher Hall, Room 218; the telephone number is (619) 260-4798. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Athletics

As a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), the University of San Diego Department of Intercollegiate Athletics maintains a full program of sports for men and women. The university is a member of the West Coast Conference, Pioneer Football League, Western Athletic Conference, Western Intercollegiate Rowing Association, and Pacific Softball Conference. Men’s NCAA Division I sports include basketball, baseball, cross country, golf, tennis, soccer, and crew. Football participates in Division I-AA. Women’s Division I sports include basketball, cross country, softball, crew, tennis, swimming, track, volleyball, and soccer.

Athletic Eligibility

Admission to the university does not imply eligibility to compete in intercollegiate athletics, particularly in the case of students transferring from another college or university. Concerns about athletic eligibility should be directed to the appropriate coach or to the Executive Director of Athletics.