Purpose of Chi Alpha Epsilon (XAE)

Chi Alpha Epsilon recognizes the academic achievements of college students in opportunity and access programs. Its purposes are to

• promote continued high academic standards
• foster increased communication among its members
• honor academic excellence achieved by its students.

History of Chi Alpha Epsilon (XAE)

Chi Alpha Epsilon National Honor Society (XAE) was organized in 1989 and originally founded at West Chester University by Dr. Elbert Saddler, a university psychologist and counseling coordinator for the Pennsylvania Higher Education Equal Opportunity Program (ACT 101). Recognizing an increased need to acknowledge the achievements of students in opportunity and access programs, he proposed this Greek letter honor society. XAE connected successful students at West Chester University with peers who shared similar experiences. Dr. Sadler believed students impacted each other powerfully and positively and could serve as significant models and mentors for each other. He believed in the potential of XAE members to use their political leverage in support of opportunity and access programs nationwide. Dr. Saddler selected eligible students and alumni who would be thoughtful founding members of XAE and together established the original board of directors. Learn more about Chi Alpha Epsilon!

History of Chi Alpha Epsilon (XAE) at Cornell

The Zeta Upsilon Chapter of Chi Alpha Epsilon was chartered at Cornell University on April 25, 2014. The ceremony was conducted by the Most Honorable Dr. Elbert Saddler, Chi Alpha Epsilon Founder, and the Honorable Shamail Shahid. This group included 17 undergraduate students and 8 faculty and staff our charter members!

Membership Eligibility for Chi Alpha Epsilon (XAE)

Eligible students

• are active participants in EOP/HEOP, McNair, Posse or Pre Professional Programs (P3)
• maintain a 3.0 or higher cumulative GPA for two consecutive semesters with full-time enrollment
• are in good standing with their college
• must be nominated by the director of the affiliated opportunity and access program
• have at least one semester of attendance remaining prior to induction in XAE

Nominated students go through a selection process. Students are invited to an information session to receive a presentation, review application materials, and meet current members. For more information contact, oadi@cornell.edu.

XAE Membership Induction Classes