CHARLESTON, S.C. - College of Charleston softball sophomore Jen Rosene was recently inducted into Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society, the oldest and largest honor society for college sophomores in the country.

Phi Eta Sigma was founded by three distinguished Phi Beta Kappa members in 1923 to encourage and recognize high scholastic achievement among students after the completion of the freshman year.

CofC established its chapter in 2007 and now has more than 700 members. The requirements for membership in Phi Eta Sigma are demanding, requiring a 3.60 GPA or higher on a 4.0 scale.

"I am extremely proud of Jen for receiving this distinguished honor," said CofC head softball coach Shelly Hoerner. "She works very hard to be amongst the top students here at CofC. Her dedication and commitment to her studies are reflected in this achievement."

Phi Eta Sigma provides a wealth of opportunities to get involved on campus and in the community. It also offers leadership roles to students who aspire for an office in the society.

An important strength of Phi Eta Sigma is its form of government. It is governed by a Constitution and Laws generated by student delegates attending national conventions. At the biennial conventions, the student delegates elect national officers and Executive Committee members.

"Scholastics are very important to me and I am honored to be included in this society," said Rosene. "I am happy to be a part of it and hope that I can get involved and impact Phi Eta Sigma."

Rosene, a business administration major from Charlotte, N.C., was also one of four Cougars recently named an NFCA All-America Scholar Athlete. This honor recognizes student-athletes who excel both on the softball field and in the classroom.