Chi Alpha Sigma Inducts 208 Students into First Class

Adrianne Hutto

Last month, Manhattan College inducted its first class of Chi Alpha Sigma honor society members and hosted its annual Brunch with the Stars.

Chi Alpha Sigma is a national organization that honors college student-athletes who have excelled in both the classroom and in their respective sports. The induction ceremony was held at Draddy Gymnasium and was attended by family members, friends, coaches, and faculty members. The inductees, who were nominated by their coaches and approved by the selection committee, were recognized for their dedication to academic excellence, athletic achievement, and community service.

Among the 208 student-athletes who were inducted into Chi Alpha Sigma and Brunch with the Stars, a recognition of academic excellence among underclassmen athletes, there were representatives from a variety of sports, including basketball, soccer, volleyball, and lacrosse. Each inductee was presented with a certificate and a Chi Alpha Sigma medallion to commemorate their achievement.

Kaya Simpson, a senior of the track and field team, and Teddy Segmuller, a senior on the swim and dive team, helped organize the event.

Segmuller explained that the establishment of Chi Alpha Sigma at Manhattan College is a significant milestone for the athletics program as it is their first year inducting members.

“Matthew Ray Bard brought Chi Alpha Sigma to our attention and he wanted us to bring that to the school and we thought it was a great idea,” Segmuller said. “Just to be able to recognize student athletes. You know, who were juniors and seniors that have not only done well in athletics, but also in their academics as well.”

The induction ceremony also featured a keynote address by Chi Alpha Sigma advisor, Matthew Raidbard.

He spoke about the importance of balancing academic and athletic responsibilities, and how being a part of Chi

Alpha Sigma helped him to achieve that balance during his time at Manhattan College.

“We are extremely excited about bringing Chi Alpha Sigma to Manhattan,” Raidbard said. “It is an amazing opportunity to highlight the tremendous academic accomplishments of our student-athletes.”

Simpson and Segmuller credit their achievements this year and the work they have been able to achieve with Chi Alpha Sigma in large part to Raidbard.

“I think the way that we communicate with each other and administration really allows us to get things accomplished at the end of the day,” Segmuller said. “And honestly, none of it would be possible if we didn’t have Matt. We owe so much to him, he has made a lot of things this year for us so special.”

Simpson explained that the process of putting together the induction was stressful, but

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overall rewarding. “

I can’t believe we really made it all work,” Simpson said. “We got another thing that people could add to their resume and showcase their hard work, not just like being an athlete, but being a student athlete.”

While Simpson and Segmuller are seniors, there is still a lot left this year for the duo. From the mental health initiative at MC and the Jaspys, an awards ceremony held for all the college’s athletes, they truly are making the most of their college experience.

The induction of the inaugural class of Chi Alpha Sigma members at Manhattan College was a momentous occasion. It not only recognizes the achievements of the student-athletes who were inducted but also serves as a reminder of the college’s dedication to fostering a culture of excellence both on and off the field.