Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering

Sigma Lambda Chi Update, Fall 2004

By Eric Jestrab, Sigma Lambda Chi president

The construction engineering honor society, Sigma Lambda Chi, has been extremely active this semester. Over the semester, 12 students were initiated, which brought the total membership to 24. Meetings were held throughout the initiation process to provide students an opportunity to meet current members and other candidates.

As a result of our large membership, we were able to participate in many volunteer activities. This semester, members assisted in mentoring and advising the Construction Engineering 101 class. During this class, Sigma Lambda Chi members reviewed freshmen course schedules prior to class registration.

In addition, Sigma Lambda Chi helped judge the Associated Building Contractor's Excellence in Construction awards, and we will be present at their award ceremony.

Outreach activities compose the majority of our volunteer work. Sigma Lambda Chi uses Hotel Lego as a foundation to inform middle school students about construction and Iowa State University. During this activity, members present a lego building plan to students, and they race to assemble the project. The activities involved in Hotel Lego are analogous to planning, staging, and construction on an actual construction project. Over the past month Sigma Lambda Chi presented Hotel Lego to 160 middle school and 80 high school students.

Furthermore, three members presented to 25 students and several parents for High School Senior Visitation Day. During this presentation, members provided information about construction engineering and Iowa State University. The high school students appeared to relate very well to Sigma Lambda Chi members as their questions and concerns were addressed.

In addition to our volunteer activities, we have several social activities. These include guest speakers and Friday after class pizza outings. Also, next semester a golf outing will be held.