World-renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma '76 received the medal last year and became an honorary associate.
President Neil L. Rudenstine, also an associate member, will speak this spring, as will Porter University Professor Helen H. Vendler, who will introduce the poet chosen to recite this year's verses.
Filling in Gaps
In many ways, some members say, the Signet fills in the gaps that intellectual life in the houses today leaves--but only for its members.
The club was once "a supplement to 12 flourishing intellectual centers," says Gomes, adding, "That's not entirely the case" at present.
But though not all students can have access to the resources of the Signet, the club's members say that it makes a valuable contribution to the community as a whole in a number of ways.
"It enhances and increases the quality and interest of artistic life," says Mancini.
"I don't think in a real sense one can measure the value on a per capita or aggregate basis," says Gomes, "but it is a significant component in the diversity of undergraduate life."