We're currently opening up e-board applications for the 2024-2025 school year! These are great leadership opportunities if you want to get more involved in ACUMEN. If you are interested in serving on the e-board, please apply by Monday, April 22nd: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdd2uFTVuwZ3PdGy. If you have any questions, please contact jwrigh3@ilstu.edu.

Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity, Inc., renowned for its commitment to fostering personal growth and academic excellence, proudly introduces its newest cohort of members. Following a rigorous selection process, these individuals have demonstrated outstanding potential and a dedication to upholding the values and traditions of the fraternity. The induction ceremony, held March 23rd at the Bone Student Center, marked a significant milestone in the lives of the newly initiated brothers. Surrounded by fellow fraternity members, alumni, and university officials, the event served as a testament to Lambda Theta Phi's enduring legacy and commitment to excellence. Among the esteemed group of new members are individuals who have excelled in various academic disciplines, extracurricular activities, and community service initiatives. Their diverse backgrounds and shared values promise to enrich the fraternity's vibrant tapestry of brotherhood and leadership. In his remarks, Daniel Garcia, President of the Delta Psi chapter of Lambda Theta Phi, expressed his enthusiasm for the newest additions to the fraternity. "We are thrilled to welcome these exceptional individuals into our brotherhood," he stated. "Their passion, integrity, and dedication exemplify the values that define Lambda Theta Phi, and we look forward to the positive impact they will undoubtedly make within our fraternity and the broader community." As Lambda Theta Phi continues to uphold its tradition of excellence, the addition of these outstanding individuals reaffirms its commitment to fostering a supportive environment where members can thrive personally, academically, and socially. With their induction, the fraternity embarks on a new chapter filled with shared experiences, lifelong friendships, and opportunities for growth. As the fraternity's newest members embrace their roles and responsibilities, they join a distinguished lineage of brothers who have left an indelible mark on Illinois State University's Greek community and beyond. Their journey as members of Lambda Theta Phi promises to be one of fulfillment, camaraderie, and purpose. "Chivalry Above Self"

Mark your calendars because on Monday, April 8th, the Total North American Eclipse will travel across the United States, Mexico, and Canada! Starting at 12:47 pm, the eclipse will begin to pass over Bloomington-Normal, reaching its peak at 2:04 pm with a totality of 96 percent, and concluding at 3:19 pm. The last time a spectacle like this took place was in 2017, just 7 years prior, with a totality of 94 percent. After this next eclipse in April, we will have to wait until 2044 to see another. There are annular solar eclipses, though, but the entirety of the Sun is not blocked out as the moon passes by. The annular eclipses are known for the “ring of fire” caused by the moon being a greater distance away from the Earth. Total solar eclipses occur when the moon passes between the Earth and the Sun while its size appears equal to or greater than that of the Sun. The moon is 400 times smaller than the Sun, but it is 400 times closer to the Earth, making these eclipses possible. During the event you can expect it to become very dark, as though it were late evening or early twilight. There might even be the chance to make out some stars or planets when it reaches its maximum, the sky dark enough for the light to effectively reach Earth despite the time of day. The behaviors animals exhibit will change, too, the drastic shift in the brightness causing them to begin the routines they would normally start in the evening. There won't be a drastic change in temperature when the eclipse happens, but there will be a lack of solar radiation for the duration of the event. This affects the atmosphere, leading to a decrease of ionization, and these changes in the ionosphere are called “ionospheric anomalies.” These anomalies can cause disruptions in GPS navigation systems and radio signals. These impacts are only temporary and the ionosphere returns to normal along with the solar radiation levels. Illinois State University is planning a university-wide event that will give students the opportunity to safely view the solar eclipse with proper solar eclipse glasses. There will be over 15,000 pairs of glasses handed out to ensure that every student can take part in the event. One pair of solar eclipse glasses per person. Unlike the viewing of the 2017 eclipse, this historical event will be organized by collaborating RSO's, including: American Society of Safety Professionals Physics Club Solar Car Astronomy club Emergency Services Club The participating departments include: Emergency Management Sustainability Physics Environmental Heath & Safety Illinois State University is working to make the event as accessible and fun as possible. We hope that you join us on the 8th at 1:00 p.m. as we watch this astronomical event! Keep an eye out for more details as they are released!   Written by Evan Keck (ISU Astronomy Club Member)