In the Spring of 1990, the Gamma Omicron chapter of the National Russian Honor Society - Dobro Slovo- was established on the Oxford Campus. Inductions are held annually, and the membership currently numbers just over 100.
As in all societies, the Letters DS, which are named Dobro Slovo, are only the first letters of the true name of the Society. This Society has the true name of "Dety Slavy," meaning Children of Glory, which, members become.
During the induction ceremony of Dobro Slovo, each inductee is given a Key engraved with these letters as a reminder of the distiction they have attained. Also engraved on the Key is a Firebird. This image is a favorite one from Slavic folklore and serves to remind members of the traditions and culture which goes back to the very dawn of Slavic history. One corner of the Key is turned back to symbolize the manuscript folios that are turned over in a never-ceasing investigation of Slavic languages. literatures and cultures.