Meet David McCaulley, a recent Athens State graduate from the College of Arts and Sciences. He is from Hayden, Alabama, and is a first-generation college graduate. McCaulley is a devoted father to three beautiful daughters and shared that his life is an enriching blend of work, academia, and family.
In August of 2023, Athens State University was accepted as member of the Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society as its Upsilon Kappa chapter. Alpha Sigma Lambda is recognized as the official honor society for adult learners. McCaulley was the first Athens State student to receive a scholarship from Alpha Sigma Lambda.
The Greek organization’s aim is to recognize the special achievements of adults who accomplish academic excellence while facing competing interests at home and work. They are dedicated to the advancement of scholarship and recognize high scholastic achievement in an adult student’s career. By so doing, this Society encourages many students to continue toward and to earn associate and baccalaureate degrees.
McCaulley earned a Bachelor of Science in biology and Minors in Psychology, Behavioral Science, and Education. He plans to become a high school biology teacher or university professor with the aspiration to “ignite young minds with the wonders of biology.”
Through leadership born of effort, both scholastically and fraternally, Alpha Sigma Lambda inspires its candidates to give of their strengths to their fellow students and communities through their academic achievements. McCaulley embodied this mission while at Athens State and will continue to do so in the workplace.
Most of our adult learners are juggling school work, families, and careers, yet they still maintain a high level of academic achievement,” said Felicia Mucci, Director of Athens State’s Adult Learner Services Office (ALSO). “We are so excited to bring Alpha Sigma Lambda to our campus. It is a great way to celebrate and acknowledge our adult learners.
This new honor society coincides with Athens State’s emphasis on adult learning and helping adult students balance their education with the demands of work and family. The Adult Learner Services Office helps these students finish their degrees by assessing their experience and knowledge and applying it as college credit. By conducting a Prior Learning Assessment, learning attained outside the classroom such as work, seminars, training programs, military education, and certification programs can be counted toward a student’s degree.
“I firmly believe in the power of education and the doors it can open, and I am committed to using my knowledge to make a difference in the lives of others,” shared McCaulley.
Athens State will continue supporting its students through organizations like Alpha Sigma Lambda and ALSO because education paves the way to a brighter future for the student and produces a ripple effect in the whole family, community, and beyond.
About the Biology Program
The Biology degree program at Athens State University provides a supportive and inclusive environment for incoming students who wish to expand their understanding of biology’s fundamental concepts, the process of science, and improve their discipline-specific professional skills. Learn more HERE.
About ALSO
We believe there is nobility in completing one’s education, particularly when one is managing the pressures and constraints of adult life. As an Upper Division University, Athens State celebrates the resolve of the adult learner. After all, it takes courage, and then some, to balance finishing your degree with work and family life. That’s why we offer Adult Learner Services. We assist working adults with finishing their degrees by applying their experience and knowledge as college credit. Learn more HERE.