The Lakonides Honor Society was formed in the 1930s by Miss Haidt, the director of women's physical education at Penn State's School of Physical Education and Athletics. The name of the society was inspired by the idea of Spartan women cultivating the health of mind, body, and character toward which women in the program were encouraged to strive. In 1975 the name was changed to the Lakonians, and men were allowed to join. The standards for admission rose steadily over the years to include a high grade point average, pertinent extracurricular activities, and personal recommendations. The society sponsored programs meant to be both social and informative, including group meetings with instructors, teas, big/little sisters, and student awards.
From the description of Lakonians Honor Society records, 1944-1988. (Pennsylvania State University Libraries). WorldCat record id: 660047743
