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:
