Troy University’s Sorrell College of Business officially chartered its chapter of Beta Gamma Sigma during a special ceremony on Wednesday, March 5.

With the honor society’s charter, the Sorrell College joins the top-tier of business colleges worldwide to host the organization.

“Membership in BGS is the highest recognition a business student anywhere in the world can receive, and Beta Gamma Sigma is recognized by leading corporate recruiters as an indicator of business acumen and leadership,” said Dean Dr. Judson Edwards.

The honor society is available only in colleges accredited by AACSB, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, and its mission is to encourage and honor academic achievement in the study of business, cultivate and celebrate leadership and professional excellence, advance the values of the Society, and serve its lifelong members.  Its mission is supported through Chapter activities focused on the development of members and professional leaders, an enduring commitment to honor and integrity, pursuit of wisdom, earnestness, and service, according to Dr. Bob Wheatley, who will serve as faculty advisor to the group along with Dr. Edwards.

“AACSB accredits just five percent of schools worldwide, so BGS members belong to an organization synonymous with the highest standards of academic excellence,” he said.

Statistically, BGS members represent the top 10 percent of undergraduate students, the top 20 percent of graduate students, and 100 percent of the doctoral degree candidates who have successfully defended their dissertation.

Founded at the University of Wisconsin in 1907, BGS was established as the only scholastic honor society recognized by AACSB in 1919, after honor societies at Illinois and California merged with BGS in 1913.

Today, BGS is dedicated to providing lifetime value for its members through programs, connections, benefits, and opportunities.  BGS is a global network with more than 590 collegiate chapters and lifetime members from more than 190 countries.  The Global Leadership Summit provides members an opportunity to network, and participate in hands-on leadership experiences.  The Ethical Leadership Certification Program contains modules in decision-making and conflict management, and involves CEOs of Fortune 500 companies.  Through ConnectBGS, members can network, create and maintain lifelong connections and learn from a diverse community.  Educational benefits include internships and volunteer opportunities that can take members to Washington DC, Europe, Asia, Africa, and more.  Partnerships with multiple graduate schools offer exclusive scholarships to BGS members and GMAT/GRE and application fee waivers.  Career benefits include special discounts on auto insurance, laptops and computers, gifts and services, publications, and professional attire.