MSSU ODK Golden Crest Circle

Ashley Buchanan (.r.buchanan)
Major: Psychology
Biggest Accomplishment at the undergraduate level: One of my greatest accomplishments during my undergraduate experience at Missouri Southern State University has been the meaningful relationships I have developed. I am especially grateful for the MSSU Psychology Department, whose support and mentorship have shaped my growth and led to lifelong connections. Through conducting and presenting my senior thesis, serving as president of Psi Chi, and working in the Psychology Animal Lab, I have been continually supported and challenged by exceptional faculty.
Favorite ODK Memory: One of my favorite Omicron Delta Kappa memories was our service activity at The Salvation Army. Working alongside fellow members and staff reinforced for me the importance of taking time to give back and actively serve one’s community.
Postgrad plans: After graduation, I will be attending Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO) in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, to pursue a Master of Arts in Counseling with an emphasis in mental health. I will also be serving in a graduate assistantship position at SEMO’s Center for Teaching and Learning.
 
(Final plans are pending the outcome of an interview with University of Missouri–Kansas City.)
Individuals who have been of significant impact: Dr. Holly Hackett, Dr. Amy Kay Cole, Dr. Casey Cole, Mrs. Jeane Elliott

Waafi Awal (Waafi.awal)
Major: Biomedical Sciences/MKEAP
Biggest Accomplishment at the undergraduate level: One of the most meaningful parts of my undergraduate experience has been the relationships I’ve built along the way. While I’m grateful for opportunities to be involved in organizations, internships, and research presentations at national and international conferences, it’s the friendships and connections that have had the greatest impact on me. They’ve helped shape me into a more thoughtful leader and a better person overall.
Favorite ODK Memory: My favorite ODK memory has to be the end-of-year Tee Time social we had last year. It was really nice to spend time at the range with friends and just enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. It ended up being a great way to unwind and connect with everyone outside of our usual activities
Postgrad plans: After graduation, I plan to attend Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Fall 2026. As an aspiring physician, I hope to serve low-income and underserved communities, both in the United States and globally, in underserved communities, like the ones in Bangladesh. I’m grateful for the path ahead and the opportunity to use my education to make a meaningful impact, as a leader in medicine.
Individuals who have been of significant impact: Special shoutout to my Mom and Dad, both who have supported me throughout all of my endeavors, and all of my friends who have always lent me an ear. Special shoutout to Dr. Alicia Burris and the entire biology department for always being there for me.

Pari Patel ()
Major: Biomedical Sciences/MKEAP
Biggest Accomplishment at the undergraduate level: My biggest accomplishment in my undergraduate career was participating and being involved with organizations that represented my beliefs. I also think that all the friends and memories I made along the way were an accomplishment!
Favorite ODK Memory: Volunteering at the Joplin Humane Society was one of my favorite memories in ODK. I had a great time helping out with the animals and hanging out with my friends!
Postgrad plans: Attending KCUCOM
Individuals who have been of significant impact: Dr. Barry and Dr. Locher

Jennifer Archer ()
Major: Chemistry
Biggest Accomplishment at the undergraduate level: I served as Collegiate Chapter President of Zeta Tau Alpha for two terms. During this time, I was awarded the Presidential Excellence Award and Greek Women of the Year
Favorite ODK Memory: My favorite activity is the One Warm Coat Drive we do every winter! It is so rewarding to give back to our amazing community and to create fun memories with the members of ODK while doing the activity!
Postgrad plans: I am taking a gap year and serving as a Zeta Tau Alpha Leadership Consultant for the 26-27 school year. I will be attending graduate school in Fall 2027 to earn a masters or doctorate in chemistry.
Individuals who have been of significant impact: I want to shout out Dr. Gilbert-Saunders for being the best mentor, role model, and professor!

Earlier today, we had the pleasure of hosting our mystery guest speaker, . He shared valuable leadership insights, emphasizing the power of communicating with passion and how even the smallest actions can make a meaningful difference in someone’s life. We’re grateful for the inspiration and perspective he brought to the meeting.

Join us for the 2nd ODK Meeting of the semester! ✨

We’re excited to continue building momentum this semester—and we even have a surprise guest speaker you won’t want to miss. 👀

Come connect, learn, and be part of the conversation. We’re looking forward to seeing everyone there!

Be there… it’s going to be a great meeting!

First service project of the semester for Omicron Delta Kappa 🤍

We had an incredible time volunteering at the . Our members participated in play groups and helped bathe and walk the dogs and cats.

Missed this one? Don’t worry — just wait until you see what we have planned for next month! 🐾

Our circle's first service event of 2026! Thanks to all who participated!

Let’s try this again 🔁🔥 Our FIRST real meeting of the semester is HERE! 🚨✨ Don’t miss it — we’ve got a VERY special guest speaker 🎤👀 and you DO NOT want to miss this! 💥🎉

ODK meeting canceled due to inclement weather 🌨️
Meeting minutes will be shared via email instead—please keep an eye out.

We cannot wait to meet y’all!