A Gathering Place for Scholarship and Tradition
Located southeast of Old Main, the Omicron Delta Kappa Circle is one of the Marshall University Arboretum’s most distinctive outdoor spaces. Constructed of brick and stone, the circular seating area has served as a place for learning, reflection, and academic tradition for more than seventy years.
Dedicated in May 1950 to Marshall College, the circle remains a lasting reminder of the university’s commitment to scholarship, leadership, and service. A plaque set into the ground commemorates the original dedication and preserves the connection between the site and its long history on campus.
A Legacy of Omicron Delta Kappa
Omicron Delta Kappa (ODK), the National Leadership Honor Society, has a long history at Marshall University. The ODK Circle was established as a permanent gathering space associated with the organization’s mission of recognizing leadership and achievement.
Because of its symbolic connection to the honor society, the circle became a natural location for ODK induction ceremonies. Generations of students gathered within the circular space to celebrate academic achievement, leadership, and service to the university community.
Historic photographs show induction ceremonies taking place at the site, reinforcing its role as both a physical landmark and a place of institutional tradition.
Restoration and Stewardship
Over the years, the ODK Circle has remained an important part of the campus landscape. In 2001, the stone top of the circular table at the center of the seating area was restored by Omicron Delta Kappa member Gunnar Miller, helping preserve the structure for future generations.
This restoration reflects the continuing stewardship of a space that has served Marshall students and faculty for decades.
An Outdoor Classroom
Today, the ODK Circle is frequently used as an outdoor classroom and informal gathering space. Surrounded by trees, landscaping, and the historic character of the Old Main area, it offers a setting where classes, discussions, and small group meetings can take place outdoors.
During temperate weather, faculty and students often take advantage of the circle’s design and location, bringing teaching and learning beyond the walls of traditional classrooms.
The ODK Circle Today
More than seven decades after its dedication, the Omicron Delta Kappa Circle continues to fulfill its original purpose as a place for community, learning, and academic engagement.
Whether serving as a classroom, a gathering place, or the site of a ceremonial tradition, the circle remains an important feature of the Marshall University Arboretum and a reminder that the campus landscape includes not only trees and gardens, but also spaces intentionally designed for reflection, conversation, and connection.
Learn More
- ODK Names 11 New Pledges, The Parthenon, April 15, 1955
- Summer Scenes Around Campus, The Parthenon, June 27, 1957
- ODK will seek funds to buy bronze buffalo, The Parthenon, November 26, 1968
Quick Facts
Name: Omicron Delta Kappa Circle
Location: Southeast of Old Main
Dedicated: May 1950
Dedicated To: Marshall College
Constructed Of: Brick and stone
Notable Feature: Circular seating area with central table and dedication plaque
Restoration: Central table top restored by ODK member Gunnar Miller in 2001
Historic Use: Omicron Delta Kappa induction ceremonies
Current Use: Outdoor classroom and gathering space