San José City College gets approval for Sigma Chi Eta chapter

San José City College has won approval from the National Communication Association to launch a Sigma Chi Eta honor society chapter in its Communication Studies and Mass Media Department. The first student induction is planned for spring 2027, giving communication majors a new path to recognition, leadership and transfer opportunities.

Why it matters: - The new chapter gives San José City College communication students a formal honor society that can strengthen academic recognition and belonging. - The chapter is designed to support students as they transfer to four-year colleges, continue into graduate study or enter the workforce. - SJCC sees the chapter as a tool to keep more students engaged in communication studies and mass media through degree and certificate completion.

What happened: - The National Communication Association approved San José City College’s request to establish a Sigma Chi Eta chapter. - The NCA notified the college in a letter dated Oct. 27. - Professor Guadalupe Alatorre submitted the application on behalf of the Communication Studies and Mass Media Department. - SJCC plans its first induction ceremony for spring 2027. - The chapter is open to communication studies and mass media majors, along with students interested in the field.

The details: - Sigma Chi Eta is the official community college honor society of the National Communication Association. - SJCC President Dr. Marilyn Flores said the chapter will give students a community of peers and a record of achievement they can carry into a four-year university or a career. - Alatorre said the honor society supports the department’s goal of increasing the number of students who choose communication studies and mass media and earn an associate degree or certificate. - Alatorre said the chapter is expected to recognize high-achieving students, strengthen their sense of belonging and encourage continued participation in the program. - Alatorre also said the chapter should help students explore leadership opportunities, build connections and take pride in academic accomplishments. - Since 2000, Sigma Chi Eta has inducted communication students at two-year colleges and universities each year. - Sigma Chi Eta membership is lifelong. - The society encourages members to stay connected with their college, faculty and fellow students. - The society’s goals include rewarding scholastic achievement, stimulating interest in communication and promoting professional development among communication majors. - Sigma Chi Eta also provides a forum for students to exchange ideas, builds closer faculty-student relationships and helps members explore further undergraduate and graduate study.

Between the lines: - The approval gives SJCC a visible recruitment and retention tool in a department that wants more students to choose communication as a pathway. - The chapter also creates a clearer bridge between community college study and the next step after SJCC. - Recognition from a national association can raise the profile of the department and give students a credential that travels with them beyond campus.

What’s next: - SJCC will prepare for the first induction class in spring 2027. - The department will begin identifying eligible founding members in communication studies and mass media. - The college expects the chapter to become part of its broader student-success strategy.

The bottom line: - SJCC is adding a national honor society chapter that is meant to reward achievement, deepen student engagement and support transfer and career goals.

More information: San José City College