Classics Hosts Eta Sigma Phi National Convention

The Truman Classics program hosted the 98th annual convention of Eta Sigma Phi, the undergraduate classics honor society, March 20-22. 

The event drew 60 delegates from 11 universities from across the country to Kirksville to participate in business meetings, workshops, Latin and Greek declamation contests, a quiz bowl competition, paper presentations, a show at the planetarium and other events that celebrate the ancient world. 

Truman faculty and staff led workshops on special topics in the ancient world. Alex Tetlak, instructor of classics, presented on Latin meter in Horace’s poetry, and Amy Norgard, associate professor of classics, co-presented with Cheryl Musch, head of special collections and University archives, on the Latin and Greek early printed books in Truman’s collections. At a formal banquet, President Sue Thomas delivered an opening address, and Eta Sigma Phi bestowed a Lifetime Achievement Award to Clifton Kreps, emeritus professor of classics, for his impact and years of service at Truman.

Truman undergraduate students were key to the event’s success. The event planning committee was composed of classics students Lillian Boehlke, Wren Crocker, Lauren Meitz, Sagan Wilson and Molly Wright, whose talents and creativity made this a memorable event. Hannah Stark, a classics student, led a workshop on how historical video games portray the ancient world through archaeogaming. Bridget Thomas, professor of classics and member of the Board of Trustees of Eta Sigma Phi, oversaw the organization of this event. Thomas was selected to step into a leadership role for the national organization for the 2026-28 academic years.