Alpha Alpha Alpha (Tri-Alpha)

About Alpha Alpha Alpha

The purpose of this organization shall be to recognize academic achievements in first-generation college students, create enthusiasm for scholarship, to promote leadership, and to provide support networks for first-generation students within and across college chapters.

  • About Alpha Alpha Alpha

    Alpha Alpha Alpha (Tri-Alpha) is a national honor society that recognizes the academic excellence of first-generation college students. We provide a national community of support, mentorship, and distinction for those who are the first in their families to pave the way.

    Alpha Alpha Alpha, or Tri-Alpha, was founded March 24, 2018 at Moravian College (now Moravian University) in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Over 100 members of the Alpha Chapter were initiated that day, including undergraduate students, faculty, staff, alumni, and honorary members.

    Following the successful induction, the College took steps to incorporate Alpha Alpha Alpha so that chapters could be started on other campuses across the country.

    Tri-Alpha exists as a not-for-profit (501(c)3) organization, for the purposes of supporting the activities of the honors society.

    University of Denver chapter founded Spring 2026.

Alpha Alpha Alpha

Join us! All are welcome to join our community and Crimson Connect group, official membership and associated benefits are reserved for members provided dues and other eligibility are met.

JOIN

  • Membership & Eligibility

    Students may be eligible for induction if they:

    • Identify as a first-generation college student according to the institution's definition.
    • Are enrolled in a degree-seeking undergraduate program.
    • Have completed at least 24-30 credit hours (or the equivalent of two full-time academic terms).
    • Have earned a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.2 on a 4.0 scale.
    • Demonstrate a commitment to academic excellence and community engagement.

    Faculty, Staff, Alumni, and Honorary Membership

    Tri-Alpha also recognizes faculty, staff, alumni, and community supporters who:

    • Were first-generation college graduates themselves, or
    • Have demonstrated a significant commitment to supporting and advocating for first-generation student success.

    These members serve as mentors, advocates, and champions for the first-generation community.

    Membership Benefits

    Membership in Tri-Alpha is a lifetime honor and includes:

    • National recognition as a first-generation scholar
    • Official induction certificate and membership pin
    • Networking opportunities with fellow first-generation students, faculty, staff, and alumni
    • Leadership and professional development opportunities
    • Participation in mentorship and community-building programs
    • Recognition at graduation and university events
    • Access to a supportive community that celebrates first-generation achievement

    Member Expectations

    Tri-Alpha members are encouraged to:

    • Uphold the values of academic excellence and integrity
    • Support fellow first-generation students
    • Participate in chapter events and programs
    • Serve as mentors, role models, and advocates
    • Contribute to building a welcoming and inclusive campus community

  • F&Q

    What is Tri-Alpha?

    • Alpha Alpha Alpha (Tri-Alpha) is the national honor society dedicated to recognizing the academic achievements of first-generation college students while promoting leadership, scholarship, and support networks.

    What does "first-generation" mean?

    • Generally, a first-generation student is someone whose parent(s) or guardian(s) did not earn a bachelor's degree.

    Is Tri-Alpha an honor society?

    • Yes. Tri-Alpha is the national honor society specifically created to recognize the accomplishments of first-generation college students.

    How do I know if I am eligible?

    • Students typically must:
    • Have completed at least 30 credit hours
    • Hold a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher
    • Eligibility is reviewed prior to each induction cycle.

    How do students become members?

    • Eligible students are invited to participate in a formal induction ceremony. Membership becomes official upon induction.

    Is membership for life?

    • Yes. Membership in Tri-Alpha is a lifetime distinction.

    Is there a membership fee?

    • Tri-Alpha includes a one-time national membership fee that supports lifetime membership and recognition materials. Fee information will be shared during the induction process.

    Can faculty and staff join?

    • Yes. Faculty and staff who are first-generation graduates or who have demonstrated exceptional support for first-generation students may be inducted.

    What opportunities are available after induction?

    • Members can participate in:
    • Leadership positions
    • Mentorship programs
    • Professional development workshops
    • Networking events
    • First-Generation Celebration Week activities
    • Community service and advocacy initiatives

    How can I get involved if I'm not yet eligible?

    • All are welcome at all events and meetings regardless of membership status
    • Students who are interested in Tri-Alpha are encouraged to attend events, engage with campus first-generation programs, and connect with chapter leadership to learn more about future eligibility.

  • Resources

    Tri-Alpha is a USG-recognized group, so members are required to complete training on campus resources, harm reduction, and student development. The chapter advisor can always assist in navigating campus resources and advising on a case-by-case basis.

    Connect with campus resources that support your journey:

    • FIRST@DU has partnered closely with Tri-Alpha since its founding, and offers personalized, research-informed consultations, programs, student cohorts, and collaborates across-campus to increase first-gen integration at the University of Denver.
    • FIRST@DU Enrichment Fund. DU maintains funds for student emergencies, activities, and enrichment. The FIRST@DU Enrichment Fund can be used to support students to enrich their college experience. Explore via a 4D lens. The broad fund can be used for support, conference attendance, funding a project, or professionalizing your practice or experiences.
    • College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences First-Gen (CAHSS First-Gen). Seeks to address educational inequity by offering comprehensive mentoring for CAHSS students who are the first in their immediate family to attend college.
    • First-Gen is recognized nationally on November 8th and has encompassed a week-long event at DU. See Crimson Connect for all current event details.
    • Undergrad Student Government maintains a First-Gen Senator role
    • New Student and Family Programs (NSFP). Family and significant supporters play a large role in the journeys of first-gen students. Via orientation, direct support, first-gen collaboration, and family newsletters NSFP organizes signature experiences like Family Weekend & First Ascent to the Kennedy Mountain Campus help to create belonging and support.
    • Academic Advising (Undergraduate; Grad Students generally receive advising in their respective programs).
    • Writing Center Take advantage of support offered at the Writing Center via in-person or remote meetings.
    • Career & Professional Development Resume assistance, career advising, workshops, and more.
    • The Office of Student Engagement is the go-to for student activities at DU. The Office facilitates student governments, Fraternity and Sorority life, student organizations, hallmark events and traditions, and the DU Programming Board.

    Explore opportunities to prepare for life after graduation:

    Recommended National Resources

    Need Help?

    You don't have to navigate college alone. Reach out to our chapter leadership, advisors, or campus first-generation support offices to connect with resources, mentors, and opportunities designed to help you thrive.

Documents

    Website Folder