Members of UF Golden Key can say all their hard work has paid off.
The UF chapter was one of 28 recipients of the 2013 Key Chapter Award presented to Key chapters of college and universities internationally.
“As a high-functioning chapter, the recognition is very exciting since these are students who represent a great example of balancing academics and service to the community,” said Chris Loschiavo, a UF Golden Key chapter adviser.
The UF group had to achieve a gold chapter status by fulfilling activity and service requirements such as volunteering at service events including March for Babies, Relay for Life, local street cleanups and the Rock for the Hungry benefit concert.
Olivia Glotfelty, a 20-year-old UF anthropology junior, said UF’s chapter received the award because of the members’ participation and involvement in various service and social events throughout the year.
“I feel we are set apart from other chapters because we like to give back to the community while also having fun getting to know one another through our socials,” said Glotfelty. “We’re a diverse group, so it’s a great way to bond and make connections.”
To join, qualified students of any major must be recommended by advisers via email.
Students must maintain a 3.75 GPA in order to be invited to the chapter.
Jordan Turetsky, a 19-year-old UF biology sophomore, said his involvement with Golden Key has been a positive experience so far.
“Golden Key was one of the first major organizations that I was involved in, and it has helped me develop leadership skills while giving back to the community through our dedicated chapter,” he said.
A version of this story ran on page 5 on 9/19/2013 under the headline "UF Golden Key wins award"