NPC Annual Meeting: A Collegian’s Perspective

 -written by Francesca Pancorbo, Chi Omega collegian from the University of Minnesota

The State of NPC is Strong

For many collegians, the National Panhellenic Conference is often thought of as a mythical higher-up organization connecting to collegiate women solely through rules in the Manual of Information. However, because of the incredible opportunity to attend the 2015 NPC Annual Meeting, this revolutionary organization has truly been brought to life before my eyes.

In her State of NPC address, my Sister and NPC Chairman, Jean Mrasek, spoke of the vast advancements that the NPC organization has made for women throughout history. Thriving as one of the largest women’s organizations in the world today, NPC has had a transformational year. As Chairman Mrasek explained it, this governing body has “worked together to make a difference” and have “encouraged the sorority women to think BIG and act STRONG as a unified coalition of women.” These statements are reflected in the accomplishments made by NPC in the 2014-2015 year, which include: hosting the first Panhellenic Academy in which Panhellenic officers were trained, approving an NPC position statement on sexual assault and launching a social media awareness campaign, engaging sorority leaders on more than 20 campus visits, and recognizing College Panhellenic excellence with presentations of awards on campus.

Hearing the impact that NPC has made throughout the world to improve the lives of its collegians and alumnae truly resonated with me and was arguably my favorite part of the day.To see how active NPC is in the community is inspiring and sheds light on the idea that there is so much more to be had and be involved with after our collegiate years are over.

 
For today, I will close with Chairman Mrasek's telling words that truly embody what the life-long Greek experience is about and how important it is for NPC to leave a lasting legacy: "We must do more than survive; we must flourish. Our work will impact generations of sorority women to come." Snaps to that.

NPC Transitions

We can learn a lot about teamwork and transitions from watching geese in flight.

This fall, thousands of geese will fly south in the United States to escape the cold, Canadian winter. They fly together in V-formation, each goose providing additional lift and reducing air resistance for the goose flying behind it. Scientists who study migrating birds note that the flock can reach the destination more quickly and with less energy when members fly together in formation.

Equally important, geese rotate leadership many times during the course of the journey. This practice allows for the flock to function at full capacity while the lead goose drops back and another goose moves to the front position.

Inter/national sorority leaders gather later this month in Irving, Texas, at the National Panhellenic Conference annual meeting. The rotation of leadership in NPC will pass from one member organization to another - Chi Omega to Sigma Kappa.

Leadership rotation happens in NPC for a member organization every 52 years. Like the geese flying in V-formation, it is our tradition every two years for the lead sorority to step back and make way for the next member organization to step forward and serve in the front position. The designee for the member organization serves on the NPC Executive Committee as vice chairman for two years before beginning her two-year term as chairman. This smooth and seamless transition exemplifies the mutual trust and respect we have in one another.

It has been humbling in my role as chairman to represent NPC as one of the largest women's organizations in the world. Chi Omega set me on this course as a sorority woman 35 years ago, providing growth and leadership development through volunteer opportunities at the local and national levels. I was asked to serve on Chi Omega's NPC delegation in 1993. That appointment was a turning point for me in my life. NPC recognized the passion in my heart for Panhellenic and took me miles down the road with new interfraternal friendships.

Indeed, this has been a remarkable journey. It has been my distinct honor and privilege to lead and to serve as NPC chairman. I have been blessed to have many mentors in both Chi Omega and NPC. And it has been my good fortune to work alongside such talented and dedicated women on the NPC Executive Committee, Board of Directors and Foundation Board of Trustees, as well as all those seated around our U-shaped table arrangement at NPC business meetings. Some of you went out of your way to acknowledge my efforts, and your kind words lifted me. This reinforces our friendship beyond badges and illustrates the true beauty of sisterhood in our women's-only organization. Thank you for your encouragement and support.

At this transition time, it is appropriate to reflect on the recent accomplishments and think forward to what awaits us. We have navigated new waters and climbed new heights together as a unified coalition of women. Our shared commitment has resulted in positive outcomes. Here are a few highlights. NPC has:

• Become more visible and recognized as the authority for the sorority experience through our media placements and advocacy efforts.
• Gained credibility through Gallup research findings on sorority membership and well-being, and private research on sorority membership and retention.
• Forged new relationships with interfraternal partners and college and university officials through campus visits, and additional forums for outreach and collaboration.
• Provided educational tools and College Panhellenic essentials for campus sorority leaders with the introduction of College Panhellenic Academy.
• Taken a stand with position statements on discrimination and sexual assault, and raised our voices in favor of legislative solutions on student safety and success.

Can we sustain our momentum? There are daily challenges that have the potential to knock us off course. But our work to preserve our timeless core values and our relentless drive to stimulate progress motivate us all to press on. This fundamental duality is what characterizes NPC as an enduring great organization, as described in Jim Collins' monograph, "Good to Great and the Social Sectors."
 
NPC will continue to soar as we take flight in the coming years. We have learned through our history that we are lifted up by the energy of one another.

NPC Can Help Rock the Vote

Our member organizations were founded by women who were courageous to step forward and establish women’s-only organizations where they had voice and vote in a safe forum, this before the ratification of the 19th amendment. Many of the early leaders in our organizations were also active in the women’s suffrage movement. These sorority sisters advocated for future generations of women when they petitioned for voting rights.

National Voter Registration Day is Sept. 22. As part of our duty as citizens in our communities, I encourage you to exercise your right to vote whenever possible and encourage other sorority members to get registered. Please visit www.nationalvoterregistrationday.org for information on opportunities to become more engaged.

Let’s do our part and honor those women who came before us and fought for the rights and privileges that we enjoy today. Spread the word and rock the vote.

OUR VOICES MATTER: NPC STANDS UNITED AS A SOLUTIONS COMMUNITY

Let's all agree that sexual violence is a heinous crime. It is a felony and should be treated as such.

Thankfully, most recognize that something must be done to improve the existing state of affairs, and a wide range of voices have been heard in Washington, D.C., throughout the United States and around the world to address numerous concerns.

One year ago NPC became more vocal on the topic of student safety on campuses. The Chairman's Message in September 2014 (Sexual Assault Awareness: We Are on the Same Team) focused on our united efforts to speak out about sexual violence and the need for more awareness and solutions to improve the status quo. This year we are promoting "The Red Zone" as part of a social media awareness campaign.

There has been significant progress since we turned up the volume and aired our concerns about student safety on campus. Of particular note:

• NPC formed a Student Safety and Sexual Assault Awareness Task Force in October 2014. This task force reported on recommendations to the board of directors at its May meeting. Further work on areas of awareness, campus resources and member organization resources is underway.
• The NPC Board of Directors approved a position statement against sexual assault in February.

We shared last year that we would enter collaborative discussions with the North- American Interfraternity Conference (NIC) to address campus safety as part of the Fraternal Government Relations Coalition legislative agenda. A considerable amount of time and focus has been dedicated to this effort, which includes conversations with lawmakers and others in the interfraternal community.

This summer legislation was introduced that garnered the support of NPC and its member organizations. NPC supports both bills -- Safe Campus Act and Fair Campus Act -- because they represent viewpoints on key concepts and core principles held by many of our members. Polling data released this week shows an overwhelming percentage of likely voters believe that the law enforcement agencies should take the lead in investigating and adjudicating allegations of sexual assault on campuses.

Why is NPC speaking out on federal legislation? 

NPC has a responsibility and obligation to advocate for the issues confronting its members. As sorority women, we are proven leaders on campuses and in communities. It is part of our tradition to seize opportunities to improve the status quo and seek solutions. We want to be part of the conversation surrounding sexual violence, student care strategies, due process rights for individuals and organizations, and preservation of single-sex exemption under Title IX.

Hear our voices as college chapter leaders, alumnae and inter/national sorority leaders speak out ...

Many of my sorority sisters, Panhellenic friends and classmates have been affected by sexual violence, and unfortunately, this number continues to grow every term. However, this does not have to continue to be the case. The Panhellenic community has an incredible opportunity to change the status quo for our members and all collegiate women. The legislation is essential to preserving our sisterhoods, protecting collegiate women and improving campus safety. -- Tracy Nelson, Delta Gamma, Southern Methodist University class of 2016

While I absolutely understand the need for colleges and universities to have and utilize sexual-assault policies, I also find it vital for young women and men to understand that sexual assault is a criminal act. It cannot be looked upon as a less serious offense because of where it happens or who's involved. That's why I feel it's crucial to encourage law enforcement as an essential resource for those dealing with sexual assault. -- Courtney Brown Zemerick, Kappa Delta, professional counselor

The Safe Campus Act and the Fair Campus Act provide unprecedented protections to all student victims affected by sexual violence on campus. They are comprehensive in scope, resulting from months of collaboration among leaders of men's and women's fraternities, in consultation with a wide array of subject-matter experts, including law enforcement officials and victims' rights advocates. -- Laura Doerre, Kappa Alpha Theta Fraternity president

How can you get involved?

• Review the information about the legislation NPC is endorsing. Click the links to find further details.
• Contact your representative to share your support of one or both bills.
• Promote campus resources available to victims of sexual violence.
• Share the National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline -- 800-656-HOPE -- with your community.
• Provide education on bystander intervention.
• Support sisters who have the courage to step forward and choose to report.
• Promote "The Red Zone" and create more awareness by sharing, liking, regramming or retweeting our messages.

As stated in our Panhellenic Creed, we stand for "guarding of good health, and for serving, to the best of our ability, our college community." It is vital for NPC and our member organizations to advance solutions that will protect our members on campus.

Our voices must be heard, and the time is now.

Guest Blog: Collegiate Women Deserve Better Than the Status Quo

By: Tracy S. Nelson, Southern Methodist University, Delta Gamma 

Many of my sorority sisters, Panhellenic friends and classmates have been affected by sexual violence, and, unfortunately, this number continues to grow every term. However, this does not have to continue to be the case. The Panhellenic community has an incredible opportunity to change the status quo for our members and all collegiate women. This is why I support endorsing the Safe Campus Act and Fair Campus Act. 

The Safe Campus and Fair Campus acts protect all those involved in an incident of sexual misconduct by ensuring campus-level support for victims, interim measures to protect a campus from an alleged perpetrator and due process rights for all students involved. The pending legislation also recommends education. This means that if I or any of my friends have to face the horrible reality of sexual violence, we will be ensured protection, support and a fair and just conduct procedure. 

Women should be able to unite as a community to support and encourage one another when sexual violence impacts a campus. Chapter meetings and sisterhood functions are a time when you know you will be safe, loved and understood. The Safe Campus and Fair Campus acts protect our right to function as female-only organizations; an aspect of sorority life that some campuses have attempted to change in response to sexual violence. Sorority women should not be punished nor suspended in the times when community and sisterhood are most needed. 

This legislation is essential to preserving our sisterhoods, protecting collegiate women and improving campus safety. I support the Safe Campus and Fair Campus acts because I believe we as collegiate women deserve so much better than the status quo.

VALUES-BASED RECRUITMENT

We, the fraternity women of America, stand for preparation for service through character building, inspired in the close contact and deep friendships of fraternal life. To us, fraternity life is not the enjoyment of special privileges, but an opportunity to prepare for wide and wise human service.--Panhellenic Creed, National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) 1925  

The Panhellenic Creed, recited in 1925, is relevant even today. It speaks volumes about who should join our ranks. For you see, we are in the business of preparing sorority women for wide and wise human service.

Many of our members will return to campus this month to prepare for primary recruitment with their sorority sisters. This is an important time for sorority women to practice conversation skills and learn to talk about the values and ideals found in their ritual and highest teachings.

Sorority recruitment numbers continue to be high on campuses coast to coast, an indicator that the sorority membership experience is appealing to potential new members (PNMs). The number of women pledged during the last recruitment period was up 10.61 percent compared to the previous year. In addition, more than 6,400 women joined new chapters on college campuses in 2014-15, which was up 36.4 percent compared to those pledged in new chapters in 2013-14.

Given current social media culture that promotes "connections" and "likes" on Facebook and Instagram, we know young women seek what sorority membership provides -- a sense of belonging. Sorority recruitment is intended to engage PNMs in meaningful interactions and exploration of the lifetime benefit associated with membership. These interactions, we offer a preview of our caring community.

From the beginning, our member organizations sought accomplished women to join their organizations. Sororities wanted women "who represented diverse worldviews and who held different notions regarding women in higher education." ("Bound by a Mighty Vow," Diana P. Turk.) Member organizations evolved over time to represent the differing and changing needs of their members. What has remained unchanged is that new members are chosen based on qualities and accomplishments that align with chapter values and established criteria.

Membership selection is one of the most important parts of recruitment. Each candidate receives thoughtful consideration, and it should be no surprise that member organizations have developed policies and procedures that must be followed. And since recruitment is based on mutual selection, PNMs also have the opportunity and responsibility to engage with chapters and further seek those with whom they feel a values-based connection.

There are several moving parts that contribute to recruitment success on campuses. College Panhellenics assist with recruitment management and ensure that NPC Unanimous Agreements and recruitment procedures are followed. Sorority chapter leaders educate active members on procedures outlined by their inter/national organization and ensure that they comply with them. And alumnae volunteers support recruitment efforts in various ways, giving credence to the fact that sorority membership is a lifetime commitment.

Working hand in hand, all entities function in concert with one another. Our ultimate goal is that, through values-based recruitment, potential new members will find the perfect sorority match.

Ready to recruit? Let's go!

NPC has several position statements related to recruitment activities:

• Position Statement Against Discrimination

• Position Statement on Membership Selection

• Position Statement on Right of Association as Women's-Only Organizations

• Position Statement on Primary Recruitment

Advancing Solutions

NPC has a proud reputation as one of the leading organizations of collegiate and alumnae women. Our member organizations are located on more than 670 campuses with over 350,000 undergraduate members in more than 3,100 chapters. We are in the business of empowering women to be leaders on their campuses and in their communities to make a difference in the lives of others.

The Safe Campus Act and Fair Campus Act were introduced yesterday in Congress. NPC announced its full support for both the Safe Campus and Fair Campus acts and remains committed to playing a part in important dialogue pertaining to student safety and success.

On a personal note, I am pleased to see legislative efforts representing different approaches to address the complex topic of campus sexual violence. This legislation escalates the conversation for the benefit of our sorority members and all students. We all want the same outcome -- a safer campus.

We will watch closely in the coming days and weeks as lawmakers debate issues that impact student safety on campus and address due process protections for individuals and organizations. In addition, we will enthusiastically support legislation that will strengthen our historic exemption under Title IX as a women's-only organization. 

Our shared commitment as a unified coalition of women is important every day, but especially today. We applaud members of Congress for hearing our voices and seeking solutions to our concerns.

Convention Highlights

I have enjoyed the opportunity to travel this summer as NPC Chairman and speak at sorority conventions. It is such a joy to meet active and alumnae members and recognize there is friendship beyond badges. My favorite part of attending any convention is to hear about the remarkable achievements of sorority women.

At Alpha Omicron Pi convention in Los Angeles, I attended the Panhellenic luncheon with a garden party theme. What an impressive setting! It was symbolic to recognize that there are many varieties in the NPC garden, yet we are all grounded with the same soil and grow from similar humble beginnings as values-based women’s organizations. During the luncheon, I heard about Nicole Klibert who attends Northwestern State University. She was awarded the AOPi Mary Louise Roller Award that recognizes a collegiate member for outstanding service and leadership to her Panhellenic, campus and/or community. A proven campus leader, Nicole has served as President’s Leadership Program Association chair and on the Student Government Association election board. For the sorority community, Nicole has served as AOPi Panhellenic delegate, College Panhellenic president and vice president of recruitment — in that order — delegate first, president second and vice president third. When Nicole could have rested on her laurels after serving as Panhellenic president, she stepped up to serve as vice president of recruitment when needed. That speaks volumes about Nicole being a servant leader.

When attending Kappa Delta convention in Orlando, I was swept away with the energy of

the opening night event. At that event, I heard about the top 15 Kappa Delta collegians honored as recipients of the Corre Anding Stegall Collegiate Leadership Award. One woman who was highlighted was Cara Mund a student at Brown University. From Bismarck, North Dakota, Cara is a founding member of her chapter and currently serves as KD chapter president. She excels in the business, entrepreneurship and organization honors program with a 3.8 GPA. This exceptional leader balances her school work and leadership position with other activities, including teaching assistant, tour guide, cheerleader and member of two dance companies. In addition, she is the founder and director of her hometown’s annual Make-A-Wish Fashion Show, which has raised over $48,000 to help make wishes come true for children battling life-threatening medical conditions. Cara is described by a fellow teaching assistant: “Although the school is filled with some of the most accomplished students in the country, she continues to stand out because of her continued academic achievements, campus involvement and personal drive.” Cara clearly puts her values into action.

Outstanding young leaders like Nicole and Cara make us all proud to be sorority women. Our conventions provide opportunities to honor excellence and celebrate the sorority experience.

ABSOLUTE AMBASSADORS: LEADERSHIP CONSULTANTS TAKE TO THE ROAD

NPC Executive Committee with 
Sigma Kappa leadership consultants

This summer, more than 300 outstanding sorority women, who recently graduated from college, will be trained as chapter leadership consultants for the 26 NPC member organizations. They are absolute ambassadors for our NPC member organizations.

Chapter inspections occurred early in our existence as national sororities. National officers and alumnae volunteers traveled by train to visit chapters on college campuses and quizzed chapter leaders about their knowledge of sorority history, rules, ritual and officer duties and responsibilities. Written or typed reports were submitted for review. These reports had bearing upon which chapters received awards or those that received additional resources and support.

It was important then and remains critical today that our sorority chapters operate in alignment with inter/national policies and procedures. Leadership consultants deliver important messages and help bridge communication between inter/national headquarters and the local chapters. With their hand on the pulse of campus current events, consultants provide helpful feedback to the inter/national councils and governing boards in their ongoing efforts to monitor campus trends and develop relevant programs.

Consultants are mentors and coaches. Others would describe them as the sisterhood of the traveling shoes as they move from campus to campus and visit NPC's combined 3,000+ sorority chapters.

These women are top notch young professionals who teach chapter officers how to lead and motivate others, as well as mediate challenging situations. Consultants train chapter members on topics ranging from social policies and decision-making to membership selection and marketing. They collaborate with alumnae advisors and house corporation volunteers who serve as the local support system for the chapter. In essence, our traveling consultants function at a high level as organizational development specialists, blending both individual and group coaching to maximize team and organizational performance.

Consultants help chapter leaders implement strategies for success and sustain results by:

• Building relationships with collegians, alumnae and university officials.
• Developing short-term and long-term action plans for chapters.
• Ensuring consistency and compliance with inter/national sorority standards.
• Instilling chapter officer responsibility and accountability.
• Facilitating discussions on current campus issues.
• Conducting educational programs.
• Teaching sorority ritual and how it applies to our daily lives.
• Identifying risky behaviors.
• Teaching intervention strategies and creative problem solving.
• Encouraging collaboration and contributing to harmony in Panhellenic.
• Extending outreach to other women in the campus community at large.

I encourage you to welcome these ambassadors to your campus during the coming year. Consultants can help identify chapter strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. By holding up the mirror to chapter leaders, consultants help assess chapter success and make positive change happen.

CONNECT THE DOTS: THE REAL VALUE OF SORORITY MEMBERSHIP

I like being around people who make me smarter by the force of their intellect and the level of their devotion to their life's work ... I found accord with some, disagreements with others and valuable leadership lessons from all.

-- Lynn Hardy Yeakel, "A Will And A Way"

Many graduates are starting their first jobs or preparing for graduate school. Job applications often ask about leadership examples, campus activities and honors. Graduate school interviews include questions about campus involvement.

Sorority women can readily provide answers to these questions. Our members list participation in a sorority on varying levels. Some sorority women have served as chapter presidents, treasurers, standards committee members or alumnae relations chairmen. Interviewers want to know background on how an applicant can work in a group. Our members share stories of involvement on chapter teams -- whether it is community outreach or intramurals.

So how does this translate? What is the real value of the sorority experience in the workplace or the next chapter in life?

During a time when sorority membership has come under scrutiny in the media, it is timely to evaluate how the sorority experience can teach skills and core competencies that are transferrable into other settings. There are valuable lessons gained by being a sorority member.

Leadership

Employers want individuals who know when and how to lead. This adds strength to the company roster and provides hope for the future. When interviewing, the chapter officer or committee chairman can speak to the fact that she has led and managed a chapter comparable to operating budgets of a franchise business or nonprofit organization. Many of our chapters have membership sizes over 100. To make a point, it is no small feat to lead 100 women in a sorority chapter and motivate them to fulfill their obligations to the organization and work toward common goals. Proven leadership is valued.

Community Outreach

Employers encourage employees to establish connections within their communities. This signifies a deeper commitment of an employee to make a difference. Sorority teaches intrinsic fulfilment from helping others. And our rituals inspire us to extend ourselves in selfless ways to better the world. In prior research studies conducted, sorority alumnae account for what is termed as social capital in their communities, by serving on boards at schools, in churches and charitable organizations. Contributions of time, talent and resources are critical to communities.

Teamwork

Employers want staff members who can work together to find solutions and make positive change happen in an organization or business. The best lessons about teamwork can be found inside our chapter houses and within our College Panhellenics. As one university official stated during a recent campus visit: "Panhellenic is the engine on campus. Sorority women know how to come together and get things done." Results speak volumes when you look at the number of volunteer hours donated and money raised for charities by sorority women. Teamwork can accomplish desired outcomes.

Mediation/Conflict Resolution/Communication

Employers appreciate individuals who can bring professional skills to the table that infuse tact and diplomacy into the job setting. Sorority leaders are trained in mediation skills and encouraged to offer constructive feedback in respectful ways. The goal is resolution through artful conversation and diplomacy. Skills like these are taught at leadership conferences and reinforced with support of alumnae advisors. Face-to-face interaction is part of the process. Chapter officers have thanked me years later for these conflict resolution experiences that prepared them for other encounters in the workplace.

Strategic Planning/Project Management/Organizational Development

Employers look to potential leaders among their staff who can help articulate the vision and steps to be taken in order to reach company goals. Sorority women know how to plan and prepare for events as there are many opportunities to put skills to test. The chapter-wide focus on effectiveness and efficiency results in desired outcomes. Sorority leaders are directly involved in managing organizational change and implementing strategies to achieve positive change. This translates well into any setting, whether it is the workplace or another organization.

In her book, Lynn Hardy Yeakel, Delta Delta Delta, shares that her career has been a series of distinct episodes, "connecting dots in the pursuit of a useful life." Lynn's work has been dedicated to accomplish fundamental changes in society and achieve gender equality. She is the founder of Vision2020, which NPC supports.

Lynn's story is not unlike many stories of sorority women who would describe their career as connecting dots. There is real value in the sorority membership experience in that skills can be applied in new ways and in different settings beyond the college years.

We need to connect the dots and talk about it.

Freedoms We Hold Dear

On this Memorial Day weekend, NPC salutes those who have died while serving in the country’s armed services. We hold dear our rights and universal freedoms — in particular, freedom of speech and our right to peacefully assemble as women’s-only organizations. Our sorority settings provide safe and supportive environments where our members can actively, openly and respectfully debate and exchange ideas. NPC is a collective caring community of 26 member organizations, each demonstrating outreach through works of community service and civic engagement. Our chapter operations are based on democratic principles, valuing voice and vote. We promote leadership and encourage our members to give back to their communities, be it the campus community or the communities in which they reside. We seek to make a difference and contribute in meaningful ways.

Patriotism was evident in NPC early in its existence. NPC was founded in 1902 and in 1917 went on record recommending to each member organization that it investigate all opportunities and needs for war service and that it aid in every way possible our nation in its present crisis. Our historical record goes further, stating, “Note — Every fraternity did war work.” Our members have continued to do their part through the years to support national armed service efforts — whether it be sending care packages to military bases overseas or greeting soldiers at airports. We stand tall on our heritage supporting those who fought so courageously and bravely for us.

And we also pause and remember our loved ones on this day.

STRENGTH IN NUMBERS

Follow your interests. In order to do that, you have to keep your passions alive. You have to feed your flame and work very hard to protect it from the harsh judgment of naysayers, critics, discouragers, underminers and most of all, your own self-doubt.

-- Patricia Harrison, “A Seat at the Table”

Patricia Harrison, president and CEO of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting -- and a sorority woman -- stresses keys to success in her timeless book that serves as a guide for female leaders. Harrison’s successful career can be attributed to her ability to establish a network of women. She notes that women have a great deal to contribute in business, government and communities. She says, “With planning and thinking, focus and commitment, women can take their place at the table of their choice.”

But success takes a willingness to overcome fear. There is no substitute for women helping women. Sororities serve as mentoring groups, and our mentors encourage young alumnae to keep their passions alive and help develop personal networks.

More than 60,000 sorority women in NPC member organizations will graduate this spring. A lifetime of sisterhood awaits these graduates as they begin a new chapter in their lives. The sorority membership experience will indeed serve them well.

An independent survey released by Gallup Education found that college graduates who are fraternity and sorority members fare better than all other college graduates in a variety of long-term outcomes. The index study of more than 30,000 college graduates released in 2014 was designed to measure the relationship between the college experience and the five essential elements of well-being. Overall, the sorority experience translates into graduates who are more likely to be engaged in the workplace; more loyal to their alma mater; and more prepared for life after college.

There is more justification to the sorority experience, however. Research indicates a set of core competencies that graduates need as part of the 21st century skill set to be socially adept. Guided team projects and clubs/organizations help build these skills through the following opportunities:

• Interact effectively with others. The sorority setting teaches this skill and goes one step further by providing an intergenerational component to the interaction by virtue of alumnae advisors.
• Respond open-mindedly to various perspectives. A sorority chapter promotes the type of environment where ideas are shared and issues are debated as a learning laboratory. People learn from other people when the lens of another perspective is considered.
• Leverage differences and strengths of others in order to foster innovation. Sororities encourage committee work whereby members learn the benefit of teamwork and collaboration that ultimately results in positive outcomes.

There are more indicators that sorority membership adds value to the college experience. As part of NPC’s commitment to preserve the single-sex exemption in Title IX, it commissioned a task force last year to study the benefits of single-sex status. A white paper on this subject will be disseminated soon. Research compiled by this NPC task force reinforces the notion that women flourish in women’s-only educational settings where they feel empowered, inspired and supported.

Amid co-educational academic settings, sororities provide a safe place where women find there is connection with peers and a great sense of belonging. This instills confidence and allows for good growth. Overall, there are many benefits to women banding together.

The beauty of the sorority experience is that it does not end when the graduate receives her diploma. There are nearly 4,000 alumnae associations distributed among the 26 NPC member organizations. Young alumnae can find instant connections through new friends in sorority alumnae organizations and reap the benefits that come from female mentors.

Best wishes to all of our sorority women graduates. Seek to have a voice that makes a difference, and enjoy the sorority journey as part of your lifetime commitment.

Resources:

• Fraternities and Sororities: Understanding Life Outcomes, Gallup Research Study
• “Generation on a Tightrope: A Portrait of Today’s College Student,” Arthur Levine and Diane R. Dean
• “21st Century Skills,” Bernie Trilling and Charles Fadel
• “A Seat at the Table,” Patricia Harrison

Shining Example of Panhellenic Excellence

Look no further than the University of Oklahoma to find one shining example of excellence in College Panhellenic operations. Last weekend I presented the NPC Excellence Award to the OU College Panhellenic. University officials, sorority chapter leaders and inter/national leaders representing the 11 NPC chapters on campus were in attendance for this special recognition event.

NPC recognized 11 campuses with this award for the 2013-14 academic year. Other Excellence Award recipients included the College of William and Mary, Georgia Institute of Technology, Indiana State University, Mississippi State University, Texas Christian University, University of California, Los Angeles, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, University of Kentucky, University of South Carolina and University of Southern Mississippi. With 585 College Panhellenics in North America, you can imagine it is quite an honor to receive this level of recognition. Campuses range in size but the common thread among all of them is superior performance in seven areas identified as core functions of College Panhellenic operations. These include:

• Recruitment planning and execution
• Panhellenic structure
• Regular communication with the NPC area advisor
• Implementation of NPC judicial procedure
• Panhellenic programming
• Academics
• Panhellenic community impact and relations

NPC views these core functions as key factors in the success of any College Panhellenic. OU’s efforts truly represent and exemplify the values of the National Panhellenic Conference.

This event was part of a Panhellenic showcase weekend where we heard about the achievements as well as challenges the OU Panhellenic community has facec. The OU Panhellenic is banding together to heal and move forward following the recent fraternity incident that cast a negative light on fraternity and sorority life. Sorority women recognize opportunities to lead and offer solutions. There was agreement that good will come from what has happened as the community confronts the issues. This statement was profound: “We will all grow and improve.” As a blended group of inter/national and local chapter leaders, we held a roundtable discussion where we talked about the strengths and challenges that we face as sorority women. We drilled deep and discussed issues related to integrity versus image and accountability. We also talked about programming for seniors and how we can better use them as mentors and instill lifetime membership. Overall there was an unwavering commitment to advocate for the sorority experience. I walked away inspired by these young women as I listened to their hopes, their dreams and their convictions.

I look forward to watching OU “better its best,” as I do regard OU College Panhellenic as the gold standard. Here’s to OU!

UNITED VOICES ON CAPITOL HILL

As we consider the power of united voices on issues, we can point to our lobbying efforts in Washington. This marks the 10th consecutive year that sorority women have been involved in such endeavors. But lobbying is nothing new for the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC). In fact, we have history to prove that our united voices make a difference.

Panhellenic power was evident in the 1970s when sororities and fraternities learned that the government planned to eliminate all the membership restrictions based on gender in the proposed guidelines for Title IX of the Education Amendments. NPC acted promptly and issued a statement that the proposed regulations did not apply to private sororities with voluntary members. Letters and phone calls urged Congress to reconsider the position. As a result, Congress passed a bill providing exemption to social fraternities and sororities and certain youth organizations. President Gerald Ford signed the bill into law. This example illustrates positive outcomes from a united and concentrated interfraternity effort.

This year, more than 200 students and alumni will lobby on Capitol Hill in April to advocate on behalf of our sorority and fraternity community. 

The annual visits are sponsored by the Fraternal Government Relations Coalition, which is composed of NPC, the North-American Interfraternity Conference and the Fraternity and Sorority Political Action Committee. Students will participate in two days of training to learn more about our public policy agenda. The participating alumni will join the students for an afternoon of training in preparation for our day on the Hill scheduled for April 29.

Here is our legislative agenda:

• Passing the Collegiate Housing and Infrastructure Act 
• Protecting freedom of association rights under Title IX
• Focusing on campus sexual assault issues
• Ensuring every student’s right to due process
• Limiting alumni volunteer liability
•  Preserving charitable giving deductions

Why lobby?

This united lobbying effort raises our visibility among members of Congress and extends our reach, so we can continue to advocate for rights as single-sex private organizations.

For 10 years, these visits have allowed our sorority women to develop bipartisan relationships with members of Congress, paving the way for our voices to be heard on major issues that affect students. 

Lobbying teams meet with staff and members of Congress. These experiences provide learning opportunities for our students as they advocate alongside the inter/national leaders of sororities and fraternities.

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. NPC and NIC are proposing a SAFE CAMPUS for all students and are dedicated to working with other parties to eradicate acts of sexual violence. Our joint statement reads: “The National Panhellenic Conference and North-American Interfraternity Conference organizations believe that one assault is too many. We fully understand and support campuses acting swiftly on behalf of a victim, and we are dedicated to supporting the victim’s rights -- whether he or she is our member or not. We also fully support the victim’s right to choose his or her course of justice.”

Watch for postings later this month, and learn more about our legislative agenda.

Will you join us in our crusade? We encourage our College Panhellenic leaders to launch sexual assault awareness campaigns on campuses and promote bystander empowerment. Sororities are a caring community that can provide emotional support to courageous women who step forward and report. 

Our march continues this month to advocate for many issues affecting the sorority movement. With our voices in unison, we can achieve our vision to advance sorority together. 

Stand strong. Stand united. 

We Hear Your Voices on Sexual Assault Awareness

The National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) has taken steps in recent months to address this topic that has become part of the national conversation. Please review the timeline illustrating the progress made by NPC since we entered into the discussions on sexual assault awareness. Some noteworthy actions:

• In February, the NPC Board of Directors approved the attached position statement on sexual assault. This bold move was deliberate and most intentional. We realize that our voice on this topic is important as one of the largest women's organizations in the world.
• We have continued our conversations with RAINN and recommend its hotline -- 800-656-HOPE -- as a resource for students affected by sexual assault.
• Our Student Safety and Sexual Assault Awareness Task Force will issue a preliminary report this weekend to the inter/national presidents.  
• In May, the Student Safety and Sexual Assault Awareness Task Force will present their recommendations to the NPC Board of Directors. We will share the board's decisions on our strategic steps to move forward as plans get underway.

Sororities are a caring community that supports students affected by sexual assault. It takes courage to come forward and report sexual assault, and we applaud those individuals who choose to speak out and navigate their path for justice.

Threads of Friendship and Purposes Everywhere

In celebrating Women’s History Month, I am revisiting the historical records of the founding of NPC and many of our member organizations. It is remarkable to track the progress made by our founders and early pioneers to form women’s-only organizations. These women were bold, ambitious and strategic in establishing chapters from coast to coast — all of this achieved through personal letters, Western Union telegrams and visits by train to campuses in college towns. The early leaders would be amazed at the evolution of our organizations.  

I read this from one of the historical journals, to paraphrase: We are a society of college women devoted to fine friendship and progress. While this historical account tells the story of this progress, we find the threads of friendship and purposes everywhere.

Have we remained true to these purposes? What would our early leaders think of us now?

I honestly believe that our early leaders would be very pleased at the state of sorority in today’s world. You find threads of friendship and purposes everywhere illustrated in pictures of sorority women linked arm in arm posted on Facebook and impact reports of our community outreach. Sorority women are scholars, servant leaders and philanthropists. We make a difference today in our communities by putting our values into action.  

That said I also believe that our early leaders would be troubled with how sororities are being depicted in the media without full consideration of the enrichment that sorority membership adds to the college experience. I have not lost heart in the sorority experience, despite recent news stories. Actions of a few are incongruent with our values and founding principles; it is unfair to use a broad brush to paint all of us with allegations of anything to the contrary of what we stand for. These are indeed challenging times. As sorority women, we must stay the course and continue our efforts to do good and do better.

Friends, we have been entrusted to honor the legacy of our founding principles and pass it on to future generations. I recall a quote from one of my Chi Omega mentors, Kirk Bell Cocke Hassell. She said, “Leadership at its finest is by example. You can show your campus and world what we stand for and, at the same time, enrich your own life.” 

Our shared commitment as a unified coalition of sorority women will allow us to perpetuate the goodness that is embodied in our organizations. Just as our founders were determined to establish a presence on campuses, we are charged with the responsibility to see to it that our women’s-only organizations continue to flourish.  

We must stay true to our ideals. And lead by example.