As you read the following pages, please remember that this flip book was designed with YOU in mind. There is valuable information on each page intentionally written to help you prepare for this incredible experience. In addition, there is inf i b i b h register, information on membership expectations, a
On behalf of the Panhellenic community, I want to thank you for your interest in joining one of our exceptional chapters! This is your opportunity to engage with the largest women’s organization on Penn’s campus, and participate in sisterhood, philanthropy, social justice, and leadership development with women who will become your lifelong friends I’m really proud to be a part of this community, and am so glad that you are considering joining as well My hope is that you will embrace the recruitment process with energy and confidence, be yourself, and have fun! This flip book has been designed to inform you about sorority membership here at Penn, and can serve as a guide for the formal recruitment process If you have any questions, I am always happy to answer them, and I look forward to meeting you all soon!
As the Panhellenic Council advisor, I have the pleasure of working with such confident, inspirational, and empowered women The Panhellenic community is a network both at Penn and internationally With 26 National Panhellenic Conference member groups, 8 on Penn's campus, everywhere you go you'll meet an active or alumnae member of a sorority My experience as a sorority woman was enhanced through the relationships built with fellow Panhellenic women My purpose has strengthened through work and volunteering with collegiate and alumnae members This experience can be so much more than four years and one chapter if you let it be Recruitment is just the start
It starts somewhere, It starts with you.
"Joining a sorority was one of the most formative decisions that I’ve made at Penn. No matter what I am going through, I know that I have a community of people who support me and want to see me succeed and who know that I will do the same for them. Through the Panhellenic community, I’ve met an ncredible array of passionate, inspiring women who make me feel empowered to always strive to be the best person and friend that I can be. "
- Kaylee Slusser, Panhellenic President
tively, our values are scholarship, leadership, service to and friendship. Feel free to ask each chapter about the nal values that are important to their sisterhood.
eight Panhellenic groups have houses that you will visit hout the recruitment process One of the expectations of ership is to live in the sorority house, if space permits Each er is expected to fill its house with at least 40% classmen and many of the other residence are sophomores s often describe the experience of living in the house as thening their sense of sisterhood with other members.
Panhellenic sororities value scholarship. One of the obligations of membership is to uphold the academic standard. In addition to the minimum CU and GPA set by the university, each sorority has a minimum GPA requirement to join and maintain membership. The minimum to join ranges up to a 2.75 GPA.
a member also requires a financial commitment. Chapter ay for a number of different things, including sisterhood , social functions, programming, and inter/national fees. The mester dues range from $550-$971, averaging out at $775. tion, OFSL requires a $91 annual Programming Fee and Out sing Fee ranging between $175-$350 a semester for members living out of the house Be sure to ask each chapter about payment plans, due t t d h l hi t iti during Sisterhood R
Penn has a plethora of resources that are here to support your health, wellness, and academic needs. Visit their website for links to their resources and more.
CAPS offers free and confidential services to all Penn undergraduate, graduate, and professional students.
The Reach-A-Peer Helpline is a peer help line that provides confidential peer support, information, and referrals to any and all students of Penn The service is open to all students who wish to share a problem, are in need of information, or just want to talk to someone about anything on their mind
Penn Benjamins is an organization run by students, for students. They offer short-term, confidential peer listening and referral services to any member of the Penn undergraduate community
Panhellenic welcome students with disabilities and we are committed to providing the same exceptional opportunities to all students. If you would like to request accommodation due to a disability, please contact the Office of Disabilities Services at 215-573-9235 or through their website Please contact the Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life if you would like to request access to an event by calling 215-898-5264
In joining a sorority, you are committing yourself to fulfilling the obligations of membership. Among these obligations is committing to the values of the sorority.
Recruitment can be stressful and you may have a lot of questions, the following are valuable resources.
The fall semester has many opportunities for you to learn more about the Panhellenic Community at Penn.
Greek Week
Tuesday, October 23rd-26th
Click Here for Facebook Event Page
Panhellenic Council Open House
Saturday, November 17th from 12pm - 4pm
Click Here for Facebook Event Page
Is Sorority Rush Right For Me? Panel Discussion
Wednesday, December 5th from 6pm - 7pm
Click Here for Facebook Event Page
Meet your Rho Gamma
Saturday, December 8th at 3pm
Click Here for Facebook Event Page 4.
Registration for Primary Recruitment closes on New Years Day.
CONVOCATION
Monday, January 14th at 7pm
OPEN HOUSE ROUND
Tuesday, January 15th at 10:00am
SISTERHOOD ROUND
Wednesday, January 16th at 5:30pm & Thursday, January 17th at 6pm
PHILANTHROPY ROUND
Friday, January 18th at 2pm
PREFERENCE ROUND
Saturday, January 19th at 3:30pm
BID DAY
Sunday, January 20th at 2:30pm
Registration is discounted the earlier you register. Early registration is $25 (before 11/30), registration is $35 (before 12/20) and late registration is $45 until the deadline to register on 1/1.
1. 2.This schedule details the times and locations for each round of recruitment, and should give you an idea of what to expect during each round. It also provides examples of what you can wear each day. There is no a dress code for recruitment, so take these as suggestions and wear whatever you feel comfortable and happy in. Remember it will be winter, and you will want to dress warmly.
Meet your Recruitment Guide (Rho Gamma) at Irvine Auditorium in the Main Hall for a presentation from the Panhellenic Recruitment Team about all the details of recruitment week. Please arrive between 6:45pm and 7pm to check-in and find your seat. This day is casual and you will not be visiting any houses, but is required for all Potential New Member (PNMs).
Meet your Rho Gam at Hall of Flags at 10:00am sharp. Each group is scheduled to visit each house for 30 minutes from 10:45am-8:45pm, with several breaks during the day. Free lunch will be provided during the mid-day break. During this round, houses will be decorated according to the colors, symbols, and traditions for their chapter. Use these details to help you remember which sorority is which. When you walk into the houses, sisters will welcome you with open arms and may be cheering to greet you. At the end of the night, all PNMs must submit their preferences (which chapters you would like to visit again) this day will end around 9:30pm.
Warmth is key, because you will spend a few minutes waiting outside each house before before you meet the chapter Warm dress pants, a skirt or dress with tights, or sweaters are all good options. There will be a place to hang your coat and bag at each house. Don't forget gloves, scarves, and hats, all of which can be stored in your bag during the round. It is best to wear warm comfortable shoes, there may be ice on sidewalks and you will be walking a lot.
For more ideas check out Pinterest Page @pennpanhellenic
Dress as if you are going to a nice dinner with your family - you will want to make a good first impression on each house!
MUTUAL SELECTION: The primary recruitment process is a mutual selection process. After each round, PNMs will submit their preferences on which sororities they want to continue to see. Sororities submit their preferences as well Each round, PNMs and chapters continue narrowing down their lists, until each PNM receives one bid, and each sorority has different women in their new member classes.
Meet your Rho Gamma at Hall of Flags Wednesday at 5:30pm to receive your personal schedule for Sisterhood Round. These events are 45 minutes, at the house you will talk to sisters and watch a short video about sisterhood. Chapters will also be prepared to talk about financial obligations and GPA requirements, so make sure to ask! When you leave an event, go directly to the next event on your schedule. If you have a break, stay warm in rooms on campus, and arrive at your next scheduled house 10 minutes prior to the beginning of the event. This round is split over two days, Wed in Hall of Flags and Thur in Irvine. Upon completion of your last event, you will go to Hall of Flags (Wed) or Irvine (Thur) to submit your preferences.
Meet your Rho Gamma at Irvine Auditorium at 2pm to receive your personal schedule for the day. These events are one hour, and you will be learning about each sorority's philanthropic efforts. Sisters will be excited to talk about the service initiatives and philanthropy events they host throughout the year. When you leave an event, go directly to the next event on your schedule. If you have a break, go stay warm in rooms on campus, and arrive at your next scheduled house 10 minutes prior to the beginning of the event. Upon completion of your event schedule, please go to Irvine Auditorium to submit your preferences for the next round of recruitment.
Feel free to wear jeans and comfortable hoes! You will likely be sitting on the floor for the video during sisterhood round, so dress accordingly.
For more ideas check out Pinterest Page @pennpanhellenic
These rounds are more casual, and you may dress as if you were going to lunch downtown with friends.
SCHEDULE CONFLICTS: Please adjust your schedule so that you can attend all events for the full duration of recruitment. If this is not possible due to a class, religious observance, athletics, or other extenuating circumstance, complete the google form (page 23) with your conflict as soon as you are aware of it If you find out about a conflict less than 24 hours before a round, notify your Rho Gamma and fill out the form. Submitting your conflict will help us customize your schedule to maximize your attendance but does not guarantee you will not miss events.
Meet your Rho Gamma at Hall of Flags at 3:30pm to receive your personal schedule for the night. These events are one hour long, and are a beautiful ceremonial experience. Because of the nature of the event and the important decision you will make at the end of the round, this day is more formal. We ask that you do not talk to other PNMs or outside sources, and make your decision based off of how you feel. After your last event, you will go directly to Hall of Flags to meet with your Rho Gamma and sign the MRABA (described on PAGE 11). Please do not stop anywhere along the way or use your phone until your MRABA is submitted. This day is all about reflecting and making your own opinions and choices.
Meet your Rho Gamma at Irvine Auditorium at 2:30pm. This day of celebration is when the official invitation ("bid") to join one of the Panhellenic organizations are given out. Your bid will only be from one of the chapters you visited on the day prior (Preference Round). After the official invitation, PNMs will join their new sorority for a sisterhood event.
Not all women who register for recruitment receive bids. However, PNMs who keep an open mind about all 8 PHC sororities, fully participate in recruitment, and maximize their options by attending all events they are invited to have a very high bid matching rate at Penn.
Bid Day is casual. Wear comfortable shoes. The chapters may have a t shirt for you to wear for their event after the bid distribution.
Tights and sleeves are encouraged.
For more ideas check out Pinterest Page @pennpanhellenic
Because of the nature of the event, dress is more formal. A nice cocktail dress or skirt and blouse are appropriate. Make sure to dress warmly!
Rho Gammas go through many hours of training to be the best resource for PNMs during recruitment. They have chosen to take on this role to get to know you and support you in your decision, so utilize them as you go through recruitment! Learn more about their role below.
Recruitment is an exciting and memorable experience, but it can be an overwhelming and emotional time as well.
Recruitment Guides, referred to as Rho Gammas, are undergraduate women from the various sororities at Penn, who represent Panhellenic during recruitment. They have agreed to temporarily disaffiliate from their chapters. This means that from the time of her selection until Bid Day, she is not allowed to talk to any sorority sisters about the recruitment process, nor is she allowed to reveal her chapter to you. They do this to fully focus on the PNMs and keep PNM information confidential. You should feel comfortable talking to her about the decisions you are making, and how you are feeling about the process.
Your Recruitment Guide is your resource for all information about recruitment. She is there to answer your questions, refer you to helpful resources, and to guide you in your decisions when you submit preferences. An event called Meet you Rho Gamma allows you to get to know your assigned Rho Gamma before recruitment begins. During recruitment, they are for you from Convocation until Bid Day.
All meetings with your Recruitment Guide are required, as she is there to provide you with essential information about the process. Please be sure to stay in touch with her often. She will give you her cell phone number and email address. All questions that the Rho Gamma cannot answer should be directed to the Panhellenic VPs of Recruitment.
You should always feel free to talk to another Recruitment Guide or a member of Panhellenic Executive Board, or email the VP Recruitment at pennpanhellenic.vprecruitment@gmail.com.
Penn Panhellenic values each individual. Panhellenic holds all members accountable for following recruitment rules and upholds these PNM Bill of Rights during the Recruitment Process, to ensure that each PNM has the best recruitment experience.
1.
The right to be treated as an individual
2. The right to be fully informed about the recruitment process
3.
The right to ask questions and receive true and objective answers from recruitment guides and members
4. The right to be treated with respect
5.
6.
7.
8.
The right to be treated as a capable and mature person without being patronized
The right to ask how and why and receive straight answers
The right to have and express opinions to recruitment guides
The right to have inviolable confidentiality when sharing information with recruitment counselors
9.
The right to make informed choices without undue pressure from others
The right to be fully informed about the NPC Unanimous Agreements implicit in the MRABA signing process 10.
The right to make one’s own choice and decision and accept full responsibility for the results of that decision 11.
The right to have a positive, safe and enriching recruitment and new member experience
NPC member organizations want every potential new member (PNM) to be informed about her options for joining a sorority. At the completion of the primary recruitment period, all women are given the option to sign a membership recruitment acceptance binding agreement (MRABA). In order to receive a bid from a sorority on campus, the MRABA must be signed. The MRABA is used on every campus that has NPC member organizations.
All PNMs are given final instruction during the time of signing about the MRABA and what they are agreeing to abide by. The MRABA consists of six sections. The sections include:
1.
2.
Completing contact information
Checking off a statement to withdraw or continue: The PNM has the choice to submit an MRABA, make her sorority ranking selection and receive a bid. She also has the option to not submit an MRABA and remove herself from the recruitment process. She will still be eligible as a snap bid and for continuous open bidding (COB) should she choose not to submit an MRABA.
The MRABA is signed after your last Preference Event the day before Bid Day.
By signing and initialing seven statements by the PNM as acknowledgement she has read and understands each point
The PNM only lists the sororities in which she attended preference events. She should only list the sororities from which she will accept a bid of membership. She has the option to not list a sorority if she is certain she will not accept a bid. While maximizing options will increase a chance of a PNM receiving a bid, she should never be forced to write down all her options. Maximizing her options does not increase the likelihood of receiving a bid to her first choice.
The PNM acknowledges, should she choose to limit her options and not write all the sororities whose preference round she attended, she may not receive a bid at the end of this recruitment process.
After signing...
Once the MRABA is signed and submitted, a PNM cannot change her selections. This includes adding, subtracting and changing the rank order.
If a PNM does not receive a bid at the end of this process, the PNM is eligible for COB. Not all sororities may be open or participate in COB, so a PNM will need to be aware of her options.
If a PNM declines a bid after receiving it, she will be ineligible to join any sorority on this campus until the next primary recruitment period. The PNM did acknowledge she would only list the sororities that she would accept a bid of membership. By declining the bid, she is bound by the agreement to wait until the next primary recruitment on this campus.
The PNM will list in rank order of her preference the sororities from which she is willing to join and accept a bid.
Signing the binding agreement, clicking submit on an electronic version denotes a signature and agreement to the terms listed.
nversations can be about anything from classes s at Penn to your favorite TV show - talk about u enjoy doing and what you're passionate about!
u can also ask women about their sorority nces. It's okay to be nervous at first, and you'll e comfortable as you continue through rounds. "
- Shivani Prakash, VP of RecruitmentUse the provided hand sanitizer between events.
Dress warmly for each day. You will be waiting outside each house for at least 8-10 minutes before going inside.
Wash your hands often and take vitamins. Many people find that colds circulate during recruitment - don't let yourself get sick!
Get plenty of sleep. Use your evenings and free time to rest and stay on top of your classes.
Be kind to others in your group. Everyone has a different experience during recruitment, and it is important to respect your fellow PNM's feelings and support each other throughout the process.
Ask questions during the rounds! It helps the conversation and is a sign of your interest in the organization
Be respectful in the conversations, regardless of whether or not you think you like the sorority. Your opinion may change with each person you meet, and you may decide that you like a chapter that you thought you weren't interested in.
If you do not think you are interested in a certain house, you should still be courteous to the women hosting you. When you join any sorority, you are also joining Panhellenic, and those women are part of that larger community.
Do not interpret any remark made at an event as assurance of a bid. An individual member has no way of deciding on their own or knowing if you will receive a bid.
Look at each sorority as a whole Sororities are made up of many individuals - don't judge it by just one woman that you met
Be mature in your decision making. Do not be influenced by others' opinions. This organization will be with you for the rest of your life, and is bigger than one year, person, or your time at Penn.
p , become a well-balanced person by following the dictates of the four points symbolized by our diamond- shaped badge: first, strengthening my own character and personality; second, watching my attitudes toward my fellow beings; third, recognizing the value of high educational standards; and fourth, developing faith and loyalty"
ix students established Alpha Delta Pi as the first secret society for nd consequently changed the college experience for generations to ontinuing the legacy of the founding women by pursuing ities to lead and grow in unchartered territory, Alpha Delta Pi seeks ce every member’s college experience while instilling values that levant long after graduation. Joining Alpha Delta Pi means investing that has formed influential leaders on Penn’s campus and across the
a Delta Pi experience cultivates well-balanced leaders that ly affect positive change within the sorority as well as across Penn’s isters are able to contribute and develop their skills and talents by an officer or a committee member, while also finding opportunities us involvement through the extensive network within the chapter. volved in organizations such as MERT, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Kite Varsity Athletics, and Wharton Women, the sisters of ADPi e each other to pursue meaningful involvement and excellence in they undertake Surrounded by innovative women and working a shared vision, Alpha Delta Pi women are leaders set apart by their d well-rounded skill set
Alpha Delta Pi's active relationship with the Ronald McDonald House Charities demonstrate sisters' desire to positively contribute to their surrounding community. Providing a home away from home for families with children undergoing treatment at nearby hospitals, the Ronald McDonald House’s mission and vision holds great importance for Alpha Delta Pi sisters. Located a few blocks away from the very first Ronald McDonald House, members regularly cook dinner for the families staying at the facility. We are able to do so much for our philanthropy because it is so close to home. Through Alpha Delta Pi’s signature philanthropy event, Pie A President, sisters also raise significant funds to support the life-changing work carried out by the Ronald McDonald House. There is nothing more satisfying than pieing someone in the face for a good cause!
Alpha Delta Pi can’t wait to meet you during recruitment!
Colors: Azure Blue and White
May 15, 1851 at Wesleyan Female College in Macon, Georgia chartered at Penn in 2014
Symbols
Flower: Woodland Violet
Symbol: 4-Pointed Diamond
Mascot: Lion, nicknamed "Alphie"
International 160 International Chapters www.alphadeltapi.org
Philanthropy
Ronald McDonald House Charities
3906 Spruce Street 17 Beds Total in House Capacity
Penn Chapter
Theta Tau Chapter
upenn.alphadeltapi.org
a Phi at Penn is a close-knit sorority full of friends and fun! With over decades on Penn’s campus, we are proud to carry on the traditions of our rnational sorority that date back to its founding in 1872 As one of the sororities in the nation, Alpha Phi is called a fraternity because we were ded before the word sorority was even invented!
sisters can be found leading activities throughout campus: athletic ms, honor societies, dance and acapella groups, as well as community ice organizations. In addition to contributing to life at Penn, Alpha Phis to spend time with our sisters. We have great traditions within the rity to celebrate Penn’s unique traditions such as Spring Fling, mecoming, and Hey Day. Alpha Phi also plans many exciting sisterhood nts; trips to six flags, SkyZone, apple and pumpkin picking in the fall, nches, and numerous catered study breaks.
ddition to our fantastic social and sisterhood events, philanthropy is emely important to every Alpha Phi The Alpha Phi Foundation supports men’s cardiac care and research Alpha Phi raises thousands of dollars at Annual Red Dress Gala- a tradition of many Alpha Phi chapters across the on Family, friends, and alumni are invited to raise money for women’s heart health in a night out on the town filled with good food, silent auctions, raffles, and prizes Other philanthropy events include our Mac ‘ n Phis late night, where guests raise money for the Alpha Phi Foundation while enjoying all you can eat mac ‘ n cheese, and our Spring soccer tournament- Alpha Phifa.
In addition to being passionate about women’s cardiac care, Alpha Phi loves to participate in Panhellenic and Penn fundraisers like the Rena Rowan Ribbon Run and Relay for Life. We also strive to make an impact in Philadelphia by partnering with community service organizations like the Transplant House and Operation Santa.
In Alpha Phi, sisters find rewarding experiences both inside and outside of our sisterhood Most importantly, the sisters will be forever connected through amazing memories and lifelong friendships The Eta Iota chapter of Alpha Phi welcomes you to Recruitment 2017 We can’t wait to get to know you!
Colors: Silver and Bordeaux
Symbols
Flower: Lilly of the Valley and F
Symbol: Ivy Leaf
Mascot: Phi Bear
International 170 International Chapters
www.alphaphi.org
Philanthropy
Alpha Phi Foundation which su Women's Heart Health
Housing
4045 Walnut Street
21 Beds Total in House Capaci
Penn Chapter
Eta Iota Chapter www.upennalphaphi.com
p fraternity is a membership organization dedicated to promoting sisterhood, cultivating leadership, encouraging intellectual curiosity and advocating service. Alpha Phi develops character for a lifetime."1872 at Syracuse University chartered at Penn in 1988
The Beta Alpha chapter of Chi Omega is proud to be a diverse sisterhood of omen from all sectors of the Penn community Chi Omegas are not only ery involved in the sorority, but they also hold leadership positions in rganizations like student government, varsity sports, performing arts oups, student publications, social justice, among many more We value omen who are passionate about their unique interests and provide a ommunity where each person’s perspective is appreciated.
We are strong women who realize that balance is the key to success, and love e way Chi Omega helps us be enthusiastic about sisterhood, philanthropy, nd social events. Our packed calendar includes apple picking excursions, ovie nights at the house, alumni trips to Manhattan, class dinners, date and ush parties, formals, and multiple philanthropy events throughout the emester.
hi Omega supports the Make- A-Wish Foundation with its fall Chi O Late ight at Wishbone and spring Best of the Nest event, as well other activities roughout the year The Beta Alpha chapter was able to grant a 6-year old lymphoma patient at the Children's Hospital of Pennsylvania her wish to go to Disney World and threw a send-off party in her honor in the theme of her favorite princess--Elsa from Frozen
As the largest women’s fraternal organization in the world, with over 350,000 initiates, the Chi Omega network extends well beyond Penn. Our extensive alumnae network offers scholarships for graduate education, professional networking, social get-togethers, leadership training, and more. You may be a collegiate sister for just a few years, but you will truly be a Chi Omega for a lifetime!
Whether you’re hoping to find a new group of friends, a place you can call home, a new set of inspirations and values, or a vast community of successful and genuine women and sisters, Chi Omega has something to offer. Each member is able to contribute her special qualities, interests, and capabilities to an orga i ti th t t th id l bl d f i di id lit companio class to Ch
1895 at University of Arkansas chartered at Penn in 1919
Symbols
Flower: White Carnation Symbol: Owl
National 174 National Chapters
www.chiomega.com
Philanthropy
Make-A-Wish Foundation
Housing
3926 Spruce Street
16 Beds Total in House Capacity
Penn Chapter
Beta Alpha Chapter www.upennchiomega.com
Colors: Cardinal and Straw
"Throughout Chi Omega’s long history, six purposes have guided the direction of every chapter and provided members unequaled opportunities for personal growth and development. Those purposes are Friendship, High Standards of Personnel, Sincere Learning and Creditable Scholarship, Participation in Campus Activities, Career Development and Community Service."
TriDelta is the oldest sorority on Penn's campus. In it's 112 years at Penn, the si chapter has attracted a dynamic and diverse group of women who are tive in all facets of campus life, including Varsity Lacrosse, Penn Dance, Wharton Women, Mortar Board, the Daily Pennsylvanian, Best Buddies, enn Environmental Group, Undergraduate Advisory Boards, and te and Key
addition to being leaders on campus, we also strive as a chapter to make gnificant strides beyond Locust Walk Every fall, TriDelta holds a Pancake reakfast with live musical entertainment, helping to raise millions of dollars r our national philanthropy, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. In fact, iDelta chapters nationwide are working to fulfill their pledge to raise $15 illion in five years for a new clinic at St. Jude.
nce our founding in 1888, TriDelta’s traditions, rituals, and sisterhood ave become well-established nationwide, helping to create a large social etwork that extends far beyond Penn. In addition to our philanthropic and social activities, the most rewarding aspects of TriDelta are the bonds of friendship – we’re not only sisters, but best friends We are an extremely close chapter and always have fun together, whether we’re dancing at our annual Woodser, dining downtown with Bigs and Littles, or de-stressing during study breaks
Our chapter house is an important part of our chapter, as 34 sisters live-in and all sisters are welcome Sisters can congregate at the chapter house for meals, Deltas Only events, and to use our gym equipment and comfortable common spaces!
At TriDelta, you will meet an ambitious group of fun and intelligent women. The Psi chapter looks forward to meeting you and wishes you the best in Recruitment!
Colors: Silver, Gold and Blue
Founding
1888 at Boston University
chartered at Penn in 1904
Symbols
Flower: Pansy
Symbol: Trident
Mascot: Dolphin
National 137 International Chapters www.tridelta.org
Philanthropy
St Jude Children's Cancer Research
Housing
4044 Spruce Street 34 Beds Total in House Capacity
Penn Chapter Psi Chapter
http://upenn.tridelta.org/
"The purpose of Delta Delta Delta shall be to establish a perpetual bond of friendship among its members, to develop a stronger and more womanly character, to broaden the moral and intellectual life, to assist its members in every possible way."
Kappa Alpha Theta was originally chartered at Penn in 1919 and recolonized in 1988, when the members of the Nu Delta Society were initiated into Kappa Alpha Theta As Thetas, we are devoted to scholarship, community service and friendship. Theta prides itself on the diversity of the sisterhood. Coming from all different backgrounds, Thetas are involved in a wide variety of campus activities including class boards, varsity sports, dance and a cappella groups, the Panhellenic Council, the Kite and Key Society, Friars and Mortar Board Senior Honor Societies, and many more.
Our international philanthropy is CASA, Court Appointed Special Advocates – an agency providing trained volunteers who speak on behalf of abused and neglected children in court. The information provided by CASA volunteers enables judges to make informed and timely decisions about what is in the best interest of the child, thereby allowing these children to have the best chance at childhood We have many fundraisers throughout the year to raise money and awareness for CASA As a women’s organization, we are also committed to awareness of issues that affect us as women, such as selfdefense and body image
Of course, being a part of Theta is also having fun We have theme parties, date parties, formals, and brunches with our family and alumnae at our house. In addition, we place an emphasis on sisterhood activities within the chapter, such as movie nights, chapter dinners, and trips around Philadelphia to promote unity among our diverse and active membership.
We are a motivated group of women and we are proud of the fact that we have been able to pursue our own activities as individuals, while still coming together to make the Beta Eta chapter of Theta strong. We welcome you to Recruitment and look forward to meeting you!
Colors: Black and Gold
Symbols
Flower: Black and Gold Pansy
Symbol: Kite and Twin Stars
International
130 International Chapters
www.kappaalphatheta.org
Philanthropy
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA)
Housing
130 S 39th Street
22 Beds Total in House Capacity
Penn Chapter
Beta Eta Chapter
penn.kappaalphatheta.org
"Yesterday, today, and tomorrow, Kappa Alpha Theta exists to nurture each member throughout her college and alumnae experience and to offer a lifelong opportunity for social, intellectual, and moral growth as she meets the higher and broader demands of mature life."1870 DePauw University chartered at Penn in 1919
The University of Pennsylvania welcomed the Beta chapter of Sigma Delta Tau to its campus on June 20, 1920 Since then, the sisters of SDT have been extremely active members of the Penn community We have been recognized for exhibiting outstanding scholarship, holding the title of highest average GPA of the chapters of the Panhellenic Association
In recent years, SDT has organized many events to raise awareness for and benefit our national philanthropy, Prevent Child Abuse America (PCAA). Our annual late-night fundraising event at Greek Lady is not only always a great time, but it is also successful in raising an impressive amount of money for PCAA; this year we raised almost $10,000. Additionally, throughout the year, our chapter hosts many community service events such as bake sales and trunk shows that also benefit PCAA. As leading women in the community, we are constantly working to further our philanthropy and are committed to having a positive impact in and outside of Penn
The sisters of SDT are proud to be extremely involved on Penn’s campus Members are leaders in a variety of campus organizations, like Kite & Key Society, Wharton Women, varsity sports teams, and performing arts groups In addition to our work with PCAA, members also value giving back to the Philadelphia community In their free time, many sisters volunteer at CHOP and participate in the West Philadelphia Tutoring Project
Our close-knit sorority promotes a strong bond of friendship and sisterhood. This sense of community is continually fostered through the numerous events hosted for the chapter such as movie nights, yoga classes during finals, and a Thanksgiving Potluck. Each semester we have a number of formal social events like date parties, crush parties, and formals that further bring our chapter together. Even on a day-to-day basis, there is opportunity for us to spend time together as sisters of all years are welcome to eat dinner at the chapter house, courtesy of our wonderful chef Aimee.
Colors: Cafe Au Lait and Old Blue
Symbols
Flower: Golden Tea Rose
Symbol: Torch
Mascot: Teddy Bear
The women of the Beta chapter of Sigma Delta Tau are true friends at heart Our sisterhood wishes you well in Recruitment and we look forward to meeting you soon! National
g close social and fraternal union of those of similar ideals and to foster, maintain, and instill such ideals in the hearts of its members as will result in actions worthy of the highest precepts of true womanhood, democracy, and humanity.”
1917 at Cornell University chartered at Penn in 1920
The Kappa Iota Chapter of Sigma Kappa prides itself on its diversity and close-knit sisterhood. The sisters of Sigma Kappa are leaders on Penn’s y activities, including Wharton Women, West Philadelphia ct, and the Daily Pennsylvanian, to name a few. Sigma Kappa of diverse and dedicated women together to create an ampus family.
find sisters hanging out at the house, studying or having a uring the week, sisters organize lineage dinners, study out classes, or trips to Center City Our other sisterhood luded ice skating at Penn’s Landing, apple picking, and having ark Park We especially look forward to date parties and hout the semester!
is very dedicated to giving back to the community Each year, osts our Ultraviolet Quizzo Tournament to raise money for our thropy, Alzheimer’s Research. In recent years, we've donated o Alzheimer’s Research. We also host events in the spring semester to raise money for the Maine Sea Coast Mission, which provides necessities to underprivileged families on the coast. Throughout the year, we also cook at Penn’s Transplant House and host various profit shares, with proceeds benefiting our charities. Participating in these service activities together brings us closer as a sisterhood.
Each Sigma Kappa sister individually pursues her own passions and talents, but together, we are each other’s cheerleaders, best friends, and family The sisters of the Kappa Iota chapter of Sigma Kappa would like to wish you good luck with recruitment this year – we are very excited to meet you!
Colors: Lavender and Maroon
1874 at Colby College in Wa chartered at Penn in 2002
Symbols
Flower: Wild Purple Violet
Symbol: Dove and Heart
National 124 National Chapters
https://www.sigmakappa.org
Philanthropy
Alzheimer's Disease Researc
Housing
3928 Spruce Street
18 Beds Total in House Capa
Penn Chapter
Kappa Iota Chapter
www.upennsigmakappa.com
"The Purpose of Sigma Kappa Sorority is to provide women with lifelong opportunities and support for the social, intellectual, and spiritual development by bringing women together to positively impact our community."
The Alpha Beta Chapter of Zeta Tau Alpha was proudly reestablished at Penn in 2011 Zeta Tau Alpha is a fun and diverse group of women involved in all aspects of campus life, including varsity athletics, a cappella groups, student government, Wharton Women, Penn Fashion Collective, ROTC, Alternative Spring Break, and many more While we do have a wide range of interests, one thing is constant - our sisterhood. From themed mixers with fraternities to date nights and sisterhood retreats, our social calendar is always packed with fun and unique events. Our past events included: visiting Linvilla Orchards for apple picking and a professional fall photo shoot, a makeup collaboration event with Bare Minerals and Cosmopolitan magazine, Painting with a Twist, Six Flags for roller coaster adventures, Philadelphia restaurant week for sisterhood dining, and much more! In addition to all of these exciting events, we also love a cozy sisterhood night at our chapter house, often spent catching up on the latest episodes of The Bachelor. Our beautiful house is a home for all ZTA sisters, and you can always find people there to have a fun night of cooking and bonding No matter what we’re doing, we always have a good time!
In addition to social events, our chapter also understands the importance of philanthropy and service During the month of October, Zeta sisters come together to decorate Penn’s campus in its entirety with pink ribbons, Christmas lights, and paint adorning everything from the LOVE statue and the Button to Fraternity houses lining Locust Walk We also pass out breast cancer ribbons and self-breast exam shower cards that month, and host our annual philanthropy event for the entire Penn community to attend, such as our popular Pink, Pups & Pizza. Along with raising awareness at Penn, our chapter has spread our philanthropy’s mission beyond campus by venturing into Philly to help others Think Pink. Over the past few years, we have helped raise racer morale by volunteering at the Survivor’s Tent at the Philadelphia Race for the Cure. We also set a Panhellenic record by raising over $30,000 for Penn’s Relay for Life.
College may only last for four years, but Zeta lasts forever - really! ZTA has one of the strongest alumni networks in the country As an international organization, Zetas all over the world can assist in job placement, career advancement and relocation assistance Our sisters of the Alpha Beta chapter of Zeta Tau Alpha wish you good luck during recruitment - we can’t wait to meet you!
Colors: Turquoise Blue and Steel Gray
Symbols
Flower: White Violet
Symbol: Five-Pointed Crown
International
169 International Chapters www.zetataualpha.org
Philanthropy
Breast Cancer Education & Awareness
Housing
4027 Walnut Street 20 Beds Total in House Capa
Penn Chapter
Alpha Beta Chapter
upenn.zetataualpha.org
Penn students can join more than 600 clubs and organizations, most of which register with the Office of Student Affairs. The Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life (OFSL) oversees three governing councils affiliated with International/National Fraternities and Sororities: Panhellenic Council (PHC), Intercultural Greek Council (IGC), & Interfraternity Council (IFC).
Penn’s 47 recognized Greek chapters are defined by the fraternity’s or sorority’s stated values, purpose, and ceremonies. OFSL requires that recognized Greek organizations meet accreditation standards and expectations for academic excellence, chapter operations, member development, leadership development, and experiential learning, as well as accountability for university and national policies around risk reduction and management. Students and chapters are expected to follow Penn policies and local, state, and federal laws.
IGC is comprised of 6 fraternities and 7 sororities. Each of those 13 chapters are a member of one of the national umbrella groups: National Association of Latino Fraternal Organizations (NALFO), National Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Panhellenic Association (NAPA), and National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC).
IGC conducts recruitment/intake processes which may include interest meetings and/or chapter-specific events where candidates can learn about the organization. All second-semester freshmen, as well as sophomores, juniors, and seniors, are eligible to participate in recruitment/intake if they meet the eligibility requirements for OFSL and the member organization.
IFC is comprised of 26 organizations (24 men's and 2 co-ed groups). There are two major periods in which IFC recruits new members, Informal Recruitment in the Fall semester, and Formal Recruitment in the Spring semester. Informal Recruitment is only for sophomores, juniors, and seniors, while Formal Recruitment is also open to freshmen. For either joining period, the process begins by signing up on Campus Director, in which prospective students fill out an e-application that helps OFSL determine academic eligibility for joining. All interested students must register on Campus Director in order to be able to participate in any recruitment-related events.
At Penn, some registered student organizations function as academic or thematic co-ed fraternities. Examples include a business fraternity or engineering fraternity like Theta Tau, which is a national co-ed engineering fraternity that has a chapter at Penn. These organizations are based in schools, not OFSL, and typically have staff or faculty advisors.
Penn is home to several identified off-campus organizations which operate independently of the University, without advising or regulation. These groups may have formed after a national fraternity or sorority closed its Penn chapter due to policy sanctions or other reasons Some of these groups may utilize Greek letters or even refer to themselves as fraternities; they recruit members and host social events in private off-campus residences. These groups receive no University funding. They may or may not follow risk management protocols. Identified off-campus groups are expected to notify the Office of Student Affairs of their leadership and member rosters, and are expected to register any events they host with alcohol. Students who join these organizations, and the groups themselves, are expected to follow Penn policies and local, state, and federal laws.
Accepting an initiation "bid" for membership into a Panhellenic organization means that you are wishing to seek membership into the sorority and will participate in their new member education process During this time, if you choose to no longer pursue membership into the particular sorority, you may withdraw from the process. If you choose to withdraw you must wait until the following primary recruitment to go through recruitment again. If you complete the new member program and are initiated you are bound to that organization as a lifetime member.
The New Member Education (NME) Process, which by University policy is a maximum of 6 weeks (though some chapters will have a shorter process), is a structured national program that all new members complete. The NME Process is structured like a class: when you receive your schedule, you will see a mixture of sisterhood-building activities, ceremonies, and meetings to learn about the chapter's history, traditions, and values. The NME Process concludes with a ceremonial ritual called initiation Following initiation, students are lifetime members of their Panhellenic organization! All organizations must initiate their new members before Thanksgiving Break (for Fall COB) or Spring Break (for primary formal recruitment.)
Penn, OFSL, and PHC all prohibit hazing and enforce the Antihazing Policies of both our campus and national sororities.
The Anti-Hazing Law of Pennsylvania, hazing means any action or situation (1) which recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student or (2) which willfully destroys or removes public or private property for the purpose of initiation or admission into or affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in, an organization operating under the sanction of, or recognized as an organization by, the University including, without limitation, fraternities and sororities (an “Organization”). For purposes of these regulations, any activity as described herein upon which the initiation or admission into or affiliation with or continued membership in an organization is directly or indirectly conditioned shall be presumed to be “forced” activity, the willingness of an individual to participate in such activity notwithstanding.
Honor Council, RAP-Line, & MERT presentations; LGBT Ally, Sex Camp, and Vagina Monologues programs
"Recruitment is a fantastic opportunity to meet a whole new group of people at the university. I’ve found some of my closest friends through Greek life, and my sisters have been by my side through both my toughest and happiest times at Penn. My biggest piece of advice for recruitment is to just be yourself, and also be open minded about where the process takes you!"
Active: Alumna(e):
Bid:
Chapter:
a fully initiated member of a sorority an initiated member of a sorority that has left the collegiate Greek system a formal invitation to become a New Member of a sorority refers to an individual sorority house; chapter names are different on all college campus
COB (Continuous Open Bidding):
the informal
process of recruitment, only chapters under total can participate in COB
Greek: Initiation:
a member of a fraternity or sorority
the traditional Ritual the brings a New Member into full membership
Legacy:
a potential member of a sorority who is a daughter, granddaughter, or sister of a member of a Greek organization (applied and defined differently by each sorority
Mutual Selection:
the process of selection by both PNMs and Chapters in narrowing down choices during Recruitment
National:
a term referring to the central organization of a given sorority
NPC (NationalPanhellenic Conference):
a conference comprised of 26 national sororities
New Member:
a member of a sorority who has not yet been initiated
PHC (Panhellenic Council):
the coordinating body of sororities on a college campus
PNM (Potential New Member):
a person
participating in Recruitment or interested in becoming part of the Greek community
the maximum number of New Members that a sorority can take during Primary Formal Recruitment
Recommendation: a written letter for a PNM from an alumna of a chapter
Quota: Recruitment:
a mutual selection process where chapters seek New Members and PNMs seek membership
Social: a planned social gathering of the membership or Greek organizations
Total: a total number, based on median chapter size, that sororities may reach during COB
Recruitment Registration: https://upenn.mycampusdirector2.com/
Schedule Conflict Form: https://goo.gl/forms/VBKXWydopbpGt9mv2
- Elena Hoffman, AVP of Recruitment
