MU secret societies unveil new initiates at Tap Day

COLUMBIA — Six MU honor societies unveiled initiates on Friday in the same style as in years past, but without the procession to the Columns on Francis Quadrangle.  

The new members, dressed in colorful robes and wearing hoods to conceal their identities, were marched to the Jesse Hall stage for ceremonies after wet grounds forced MU’s 83rd annual Tap Day indoors.

Tap Day recognizes the exemplary performance of students in several different arenas, including service to the community, academics and leadership.

Each society also had “honorary taps” for faculty, staff or alumni who were chosen for influencing students in a positive way.

 “We take pride in our students,” said Cathy Scroggs, vice chancellor for student affairs. “They put the interests of others before their own.”

The honor societies include QEBH, Mystical Seven, LSV, Mortar Board, Omicron Delta Kappa and the Rollins Society.

QEBH was founded in 1898 by Royall Hill Switzler and is the oldest honor society on campus.

Initiate Jarrett Sutton said he was excited about meeting new students in QEBH. “I get to see the history that goes into the school, and it’s really cool to be a part of it,” he said.

Sutton belongs to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, plays for the MU men’s basketball team and is a member of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee. He was also involved with Special Olympics.

Mystical Seven, the second-oldest honor society at MU, recognizes seven students each year who display leadership and character.

Junior Andrew Lorenz, who was inducted into Mystical Seven, said he’s looking forward to joining a new campus family for his senior year. “It is a way to close out a great experience,” he said.

Lorenz was a Summer Welcome leader in 2009 and a peer educator for sexual violence prevention.

LSV was founded in 1908 by a group of women who were concerned about their status on campus. For LSV, Tap Day marks the end of a year of service. For the other societies, Tap Day signifies the beginning of service for the campus and community.