The International Academic Honor and Professional Society in Gerontology

Sigma Phi Omega (SPO) is the International Academic Honor and Professional Society in Gerontology. Created in 1980, SPO focuses on the multifaceted vista of aging, promoting “scholarship, professionalism, friendship, and service to older persons”, and recognizing excellence in gerontology and aging.

Alpha Delta Omega is University of Arizona’s SPO chapter, created in March 2022 with the goal of creating a common platform where eligible members of the UArizona community involved in aging and gerontology (study, research, practice), can come together to learn, connect and serve. SPO is made up of chapters, (currently more than 50 chapters worldwide), with each chapter determining how to execute SPO’s goals in their jurisdiction. As a new chapter, we are seeking persons with vision, passion, and enthusiasm to help create a vibrant chapter that promotes engagement and growth among its members, in the service of older persons in our community. We will induct new members into our chapter in Fall 2022.

Membership in SPO signals commitment to aging and gerontology, which can be expressed in many forms. It also opens the door to engagement and collaboration, locally and further afield. For students and professionals alike, it provides a space to interact and network with those who share similar interests, and participate in regional, national, and international conferences. Members and chapters are also eligible for SPO awards that recognize contributions to undergraduate and graduate education experiences or the contributions of professional members to the well-being of older adults, including awards for service projects (chapter), video contest (chapter), and student papers.

UArizona students currently enrolled (as major or minor) in a gerontology or aging studies program, or related fields are especially welcome. (Related fields: a concentration in gerontology or aging studies within a discipline or professional degree program other than gerontology). To be eligible, students must have completed a semester in their program, have overall grade point average of at least 3.30 (undergrads) or 3.50 (grads) on a 4.0 scale, and a commitment to leadership and achievement in gerontology/aging/their related fields of professional study. Student membership fee is $30 per year (includes SPO Pin)

The Alpha Delta Omega chapter of SPO at the UArizona was established by Amanda Sokan, PhD, MHB, LL.A, assistant professor in the Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health. She encourages your participation!

For more information, email Chapter Advisor, Dr. Amanda Sokan at aesokan@arizona.edu.

Sigma Phi Omega (SPO), the international academic honor and professional society in gerontology, was established in 1980 to recognize excellence of those who study gerontology and aging and the outstanding service of professionals who work with or on behalf of older persons. The formation of a society provides a much needed link between educators, practitioners, and administrators in various settings where older persons are served.

The goals of SPO are achieved primarily through activities of local chapters, and secondarily through efforts of the national office and officers. Local chapters serve as links within their respective communities to promote interaction between gerontology educators, students, alumni, and local professionals. The chapters provide opportunities for personal and professional interaction, sharing of concerns, discussion of issues, and service activities.

SPO seeks to promote scholarship, professionalism, friendship, and services to older persons, and to recognize exemplary attainment in gerontology/aging studies and related fields