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