About Us

Der Hexenkreis Senior Honor Society recognizes Cornell seniors for outstanding achievement in scholarship, leadership, and public service. Cornell's second oldest honor society, Der Hexenkreis has the distinction as the first honor society founded by, and originally exclusively for, female members of the Cornell community. Although founded as exclusively female in 1892, Der Hexenkreis joined the Mortar Board National Honor Society soon thereafter, and in the 1970s, joined Mortar Board in tapping individuals of all genders. Though having been a part of founding four chapters of the Mortar Board National Honor Society in 1918, the society's 130th Tapping Class voted to officially disaffiliate from the National organization, elected to reclaim their roots as a uniquely Cornellian society. Der Hexenkreis' unique origins and traditions at Cornell, while remaining co-ed, continue to resound in the current traditions and values the Society strives to uphold. Der Hexenkreis, offers its members a unique opportunity to be among some of Cornell's most influential student leaders from many outstanding groups on campus. Der Hexenkreis continues to provide ample opportunities for continued leadership development, promotes service to both the Cornell and Ithaca communities, and recognizes the value of scholarship and academic excellence. Those tapped for membership are among the most respected, accomplished individuals to call Cornell University their collegiate home.