Delta Phi Alpha is the National German Honor Society. Founded in 1927, its motto is "Fackelträger des menschlichen Geistes" ("torchbearer of the human spirit"). The Department's Pi Chapter is one of 234 chapters in existence today. Membership is available to students who have or show:

1. A minimum of two years of college or university German or their equivalent
2. A minimum average of B+ or its equivalent in German courses
3. A minimum cumulative average of B- or its equivalent
4. An indication of continued interest in the study of German language and literature

For more information, contact Professor Stephanie Hilger at hilger@illinois.edu.

The Department is able to present monetary and book awards due to generous donations from faculty, student alumni and the Goethe Institut.