A new chapter of the National Biological Honor Society, Beta Beta Beta, officially received its charter and initiated 47 new members Wednesday in the Molecular Biology Atrium.

Beta Beta Beta encourages scholarly development in the biology field, according to its mission statement. It was originated in 1922 by Frank G. Brooks at the Oklahoma City University.

Membership is reserved for those who strive for superior academic excellence and who show a major interest in life sciences. The goal of Beta Beta Beta is to enhance student interest and a higher appreciation for the biological field.

The initiates included 13 regular members, four honorary members and 30 associate members. The group includes students from many majors, including ecology, biochemistry, biology, biophysics, botany, entomology, genetics, microbiology and zoology.

The evening consisted of a banquet and ceremony, and both parents and selected guests of the new members were invited, said Matthew Lux, president of Beta Beta Beta.

Beta Beta Beta was started as an Iowa State club three years ago by Kevin Cavallin, Sarah Daniels and David Wohlford, Lux said.

Before the club could become an organized honor society, it had to meet certain criteria. Lux said it had to be an established club and had to have elected officers, advisers, a constitution and a budget.

After these criteria were met, the club had to raise money in order to apply for a charter. Lux said the entire process took a year and a half to complete.

Members of Beta Beta Beta have many opportunities for scholarships and awards. Lux said members also are able to publish their research in academic journals or present their work at district and national meetings.

“There are certain scholarships and research grants that members can apply for at the national level,” he said. “We hope to offer charter scholarships in the future.”

Beta Beta Beta also plans to organize a scholarship and internship database to help members, and Lux said they also intend to get involved with service-oriented programs.

“We look forward to an exciting future and are striving to make Beta the best we can,” he said.