09/09/2025
Hello,
My name is Joseph van Oss. Before retiring from UW-L in 2023, I was faculty adviser to EPA from 2007. I'd like to comment on the status and future of EPA.
EPA was founded in 1971 with the aim of becoming a chapter of the national honor society Phi Beta Kappa. (I still believe that dream is possible.) Membership was open to students in the college of (as they are now known) Art, Social Sciences, and Humanities, and the college of Science and Health. There was no affiliation with a national organization as there is with Golden Key.
When I retired, there was no time to launch a search for a new faculty adviser. Though this FB page continues to be viewed, EPA seems to be quiescent.
IF there is student interest in a revival of EPA, it will have to be led by students. I invite you to message me to express interest in forming a search committee. If you prefer, the Office of University Centers would be a resource and helpful contact in this process.
If no viable search team comes together, it is likely that UW-L will eventually remove EPA from its roster and this FB page will be taken down.
It was a privilege to work with so many extraordinary student leaders and members. My heart goes with all of you.
VO
