Pinning at FIT, and not for hem lines

Chelsea Now photos by Jefferson Siegel

Taur Orange (at right), director of FIT’s Office of Educational Opportunity Programs, pins Sade DeSouza, 20, a recipient of the 3.0 Student Achiever commendation. DeSouza, from Brooklyn, is a Fashion Merchandising and Management major and student vice-president for the industry-sponsored Black Retail Action Group (BRAG).

By Jefferson Siegel

The Educational Opportunity Program at the Fashion Institute of Technology, which provides support and expanded services to students who seek higher education despite long-term socioeconomic challenges, inducted its first members into the Epsilon Kappa Chapter of the Chi Alpha Epsilon National Honor Society last Friday in Chelsea.

In a pinning ceremony full of emotion, students were pinned by fellow students, parents and, in one case, a fiancée. EOP students who have maintained a 3.0 grade point average were honored at the event, which included the announcement of EOP students who will graduate on May 20.

“As our celebration unfolds this afternoon, there are countless young people from across the city and state who seek a chance to advance their lives through an FIT education,” said EOP director Taur Orange, who addressed the crowd before the ceremony began. “They have the talent, the motivation and the academic capability to succeed. But for the insidious pressures and distractions brought about by persistent economic hardship and the lack of advocates, they are not among those we celebrate this afternoon. We must all find a way to offer them the opportunity.”

Joyce Brown, president of FIT, spoke with pride of the students. “Even in a community of unusually motivated students, such as FIT, you stand out,” she said. “They say that character is destiny. I believe that, in your case, collectively, we need have no worry for your future. Your characters are shaped, and they are outstanding.”

The Chi Alpha Epsilon National Honor Society was founded in 1989 for students who belong to EOP programs nationwide. To be inducted into the society, full-time students must have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher for two consecutive semesters. Part-time students must achieve this for three consecutive semesters.