Sigma Tau Delta

Sigma Tau Delta is an International English Honor Society established in 1924, and it is open to students with a 3.5 GPA or higher, pursuing a major or minor in literature, composition, or other related fields.

The Nu Epsilon chapter at Missouri Valley College offers induction ceremonies during the fall, and provides the opportunity to be a part of The Purple Patch board.

With over 900 active chapters in the US and abroad, more than 1,000 faculty sponsors, and approximately 9,000 members inducted annually, Sigma Tau Delta strives to:

  • Confer distinction for high achievement in English language and literature in undergraduate, graduate, and professional studies;
  • Provide, through its local chapters, cultural stimulation on college campuses and promote interest in literature and the English language in surrounding communities;
  • Foster all aspects of the discipline of English, including literature, language, and writing;
  • Promote exemplary character and good fellowship among its members;
  • Exhibit high standards of academic excellence; and
  • Serve society by fostering literacy.

The Purple Patch

The Purple Patch, MVC’s literary journal, features creative nonfiction, academic prose, fiction, poetry, and artwork by the school’s students. The volumes are edited each year by a board composed of Sigma Tau Delta members, and physical copies of the year’s journal are available at the end of each spring semester. 

Each semester the Editorial Board will nominate submissions from each category to receive an award for their phenomenal literary work. A winner from each genre will be chosen, and will be invited to a special ceremony to accept their prizes, with the opportunity to talk about their art.

To submit your art for consideration of publication, attach a PDF copy of your work and email purplepatch@moval.edu . This same address will be available to answer any other questions you may have.

Click on the links below to view other year’s volumes of The Purple Patch.

2023-2024 Purple Patch

2022-2023 Purple Patch

2021-2022 Purple Patch

2019-2021 Purple Patch

2017-2018 Purple Patch

2016-2017 Purple Patch

2014-2015 Purple Patch

2013-2014 Purple Patch

2012-2013 Purple Patch