Lee University’s chapter of Kappa Delta Pi (KDP), an honors society for educators, welcomed five new members in an induction ceremony held earlier this month.  
 
“I enjoy our yearly induction for KDP because we get to see the fruit of the students’ hard work and perseverance for excellence,” said Dr. Paige Rapson, professor of education and faculty sponsor for Lee’s KDP chapter. “These students show excellence both inside and outside of the classroom where they care for students holistically.” 
 
Friends and family were invited to watch as the inductees received an encouraging word from guest speaker Laura Stilltrotter, a Lee University alumna, teacher at Blythe-Bower Elementary in Cleveland, and recipient of 2025-26 Tennessee Novice Teacher of the Year Award. After she spoke, the KDP officers officially inducted the candidates into the honor society, and a presentation of certificates followed. 
 
The new inductees included Robbi Guthrie, Ashlee Hickey, Alex Hutchins, Alia Serrano, and Bailey Smith. 
 
“Being inducted into Kappa Delta Pi is an honor that not only motivates me to continue growing as an individual, but as a future leader and educator,” said Hickey. “I am thankful for those who have supported me and seen the potential I have to make a difference in the next generation. This honor will allow me to serve and develop confidence to lead with excellence and integrity.” 
 
For more information about KDP, visit kdp.org/home. 
 
For more information on Lee’s Helen DeVos College of Education, call (423) 614-8175 or email [email protected].