2013-2014 WCU Fraternity and Sorority Annual Report

office of fraternity and Sorority lifediviSion of Student affairS

w e s t c h e s t e r u n i v e r s i t y o f p e n n s y l v a n i a

Fraternity andSorority Life

annual report2013-2014


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Office of Fraternity and Sorority LifeDivision of Student Affairs

annual report2013-2014

CONTENTS:

Year in Review Letter from the Director . . . . . . . . . 2

Acknowledgements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Community Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Non-profit Organizations Served . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Fraternity and Sorority Grade Report . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Governing Council Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Fraternity and Sorority Awards & Recognition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Community Highlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Expansion Update: Why We Choose to Grow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

“Being part of my sorority has many benefits. One in particular has to be the amazing relationships that I’ve made with all the other fraternity and sorority members. Each organization is filled with great men and women who have great leadership skills that they’ve shared and molded along with me.” Victoria Moon, Sigma Lambda Gamma


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YEAR IN REVIEW

“If you can’t fly, then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.” Martin Luther King Jr.

The theme for this past year was about creating momentum as a community to begin tackling some of the major areas that will take us to the next level. With such a large increase in total membership, many systems and structures needed to be updated to encourage self-governance and to establish a presence on campus.

The following new programs and milestones were a big part of creating this momentum:

> Total membership of 1,385 students resulting in an overall increase of 21% from 2013 which is the largest total membership in the history of fraternity and sorority life at WCU

> More than 70% of all members earned a 3.0 or higher for the spring 2014 semester – an astounding statistic for our highly academic successful community

> The Judicial Boards for each governing council have been re-established, with 75 board members trained in partnership with the Office of Judicial Affairs and Student Assistance

> The Fraternity and Sorority Alumni Board has been re-established

> The Black and Latino Greek Council Step Show was re-established after a three year hiatus

> Governing council officer roles were redeveloped to align with national standards and encourage cross-collaboration

This coming year will focus on applying all that was learned in assessment efforts over the past year. Through the PASSHE Program Review process and the NASPA Assessment & Knowledge Consortium survey, the departmental priorities will shift to match those opportunities for improvement towards national benchmarking. We learned which areas need more educational emphasis, and are proud to continue making contributions toward students’ self-reported growth in leadership, communication skills, and appreciation of diversity.

This annual report describes the successes and challenges for the past exciting year. We hope that you read this and celebrate all that has been accomplished and join us in carrying this momentum forward.

Fraternally,

Cara Jenkins

Director of Fraternity and Sorority Life


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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

As we reflect on the accomplishments of the WCU fraternity and sorority community over the past year, we would like to take the time to thank those who assisted in that growth and development on campus:

Dr. Sami Abdel-Salam, Criminal Justice, Assistant Professor Mr. Barrett McGee, Student Activities Coordinator, Student Services, Inc.

Mr. Brad Allen, Accounting, Executive in Residence Ms. Marion McKinney, Director, Residence Life

Mr. Terry Beattie, Associate Director of Athletics Mr. Chris Mehrholz, Administrative Assistant, Student Services, Inc.

Ms. Ilana Berger, Student Photographer Ms. Diane Miller, Catering Event Sales Manager, ARAMARK

Dr. Mary Braz, Communication Studies, Assistant Professor Ms. Kellianne Milliner, Assistant Director, Athletics

Ms. Christina Brenner, Associate Director, Sykes Student Union Ms. Amanda Mitchell, Assistant Director, Twardowski CareerDevelopment Center

Dr. Matthew Bricketto, Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Katherine Norris, Early and Middle Grades Education, Associate Professor

Mr. Jared Brown, Director, New Student Programs Dr. Brian O’Neill, Criminal Justice, Associate Professor

Ms. Ann Callaghan, Secretary, Sykes Student Union Mr. Alex Paez, Graduate Assistant, Multicultural Affairs

Ms. Krista Carstens, Staff Assistant, Twardowski Career Development Center Ms. Mary Ellen Panaccio, Secretary, Student Leadership and Involvement/Fraternity and Sorority Life

Ms. Kirsten Cirelli, Undergraduate Intern, Fraternity and Sorority Life Ms. Stephanie Paulachok, Administrative Assistant, Office of Residence Life and Housing Services

Dr. Angela Clarke, Psychology, Associate Professor Ms. Kathryn Pawlowski, Staff, Information Center

Dr. Stephan Clyburn, Political Science, Professor Dr. Julie Perone, Director, Counseling Center

Mr. Brady Collier, University Student Housing Mr. Ryan Pugliese, Resident Director, Wayne Hall

Ms. Carolyn Comitta, Mayor of West Chester Dr. Thomas Purce, Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs

Dr. Joanne Conlon, Director, Pre-Major Academic Advising Mr. Matthew Queh, Custodial Worker, Sykes Student Union

Ms. Trudy Cruice, Executive Associate, Vice President for Student Affairs Ms. Ashley Reichenbach, Assistant Director, Twardowski Career Development Center

Ms. Ellen DiSanti, Secretary, New Student Programs Ms. Lauren Reidy, Consultant, Alpha Delta Pi

Ms. Michele Dormer, Program Director for Camp Dreamcatcher Ms. Joellen Reindl, Secretary, Service Learning and Volunteer Programs

Ms. Tracey Duckert, Director, Alumni Relations Ms. Sabrina Rightmer, Administrative Assistant, Sykes Student Union

Mr. Carlos Esteve, Custodial Worker, Sykes Student Union Ms. Mary Jane Rogan, Coordinator, Wellness and Alcohol Education

Dr. Jonathan Friedman, History, Professor Ms. Becky Ross, Director, Twardowski Career Development Center

Mr. Peter Galloway, Assistant Dean of Student Involvement Ms. Jodi Roth-Saks, Director, Service Learning and Volunteer Programs

Dr. Stephen Gambino, Director, Campus Recreation Dr. Lisa Ruchti, Women’s and Gender Studies/Sociology, Associate Professor

Mr. Vernon Gerety, Economics and Finance, Adjunct Professor Dr. Simon Ruchti, Philosophy, Assistant Professor

Ms. Alicia Hahn, Director, Wellness Education and Interim Ms. Holly Sanborn, Board Secretary for Camp Dreamcatcher Director, Women’s Center

Dr. Brian Halsey, Associate Professor, Marketing Mr. Mike Selby, Director of Housing, University Student Housing, Inc.

Ms. Mary Ann Hammond, Assistant Dean of Students Mrs. Anne Shuniak, Community Outreach & Marketing Director, Chester County Food Bank

Mr. Marcus Harrison, Resident Director, Allegheny Hall Ms. Shelley Siedzikowski, Assistant Director, Judicial Affairs

Ms. Patty Hilkirk, Founder & Director of Camp Dreamcatcher Ms. Preeti Singh, Associate Director, Twardowski Career Development Center

Dr. Sara Hinkle, Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs Ms. Kim Slattery, Information Technology, Web Team

Ms. Stacy Houck, Business Office Generalist, Student Services Inc. Ms. Aneesah Smith, Assistant to the Vice President for Student Affairs, LGBTQA Services/Special Projects

Ms. Tiffany Hundley, Student Photographer Ms. Mallieen Steimel, Staff, Information Center

Mr. Jerome Hutson, Director, Multicultural Affairs Lt. Raymond C. Stevenson, Assistant Director, Residence Hall Security/Community Policing

Mr. Jeff Iliff, Custodial Worker, Sykes Student Union Dr. Cassie Striblen, Philosophy, Assistant Professor

Ms. Lisa Iliff, Custodial Worker, Sykes Student Union Mr. David Timmann, Director, Sykes Student Union

Ms. Tiffany Lane, Social Work, Assistant Professor Ms. Susan Visoskas, Assistant Director, Housing

Ms. Danielle Lewis, Graduate Assistant, Fraternity and Sorority Life Mr. Hank Walden, Consultant, Pi Kappa Alpha

Ms. Sandra Jones, Director, Off-Campus and Commuter Services Mr. Charles Warner, Director, Student Leadership and Involvement

Ms. Mell Josephs, Executive Director, Student Services, Inc. Ms. Helen Watson, Catering Sales Coordinator

Ms. Toni Kampf, Assistant Director, Sykes Student Union Ms. Eryka Weaver, Undergraduate Intern

Mr. Jordan King, Consultant, Pi Kappa Alpha Mr. Ben Weston, Franchise Owner for OrderUp WCU

Ms. Lynn M. Klingensmith, Director, Judicial Affairs and Student Assistance Dr. Christine Williams, Health, Professor

Mr. Doug Kohen, Custodial Worker, Sykes Student Union Ms. Jamie Williams, Assistant Director, Service Learning and Volunteer Programs

Mr. Craig Leduc, Assistant Director, Campus Recreation Dr. York Williams, Special Education, Assistant Professor

Dr. David LeVasseur, Communication Studies, Professor Ms. Monica Woutersz, Secretary, Campus Recreation

Ms. Levette Lewis, Custodial Worker, Sykes Student Union Mr. Ric Winston, Communication Studies, Adjunct Faculty

Ms. Querida Lugo, Associate Director, Multicultural Affairs Dr. Deanne Zotter, Psychology, Professor

Ms. Kim McCann, Administrative Assistant, Judicial Affairs and Student Assistance

“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.”

John Fitzgerald Kennedy


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Community programming – Chapter and Council programming

52 Philanthropy Events

174 Service Programs

$75,383.97donated to

Philanthropic causes

7,016 Hoursof service donated

3,519 lbs.of food donated

Total raised for the Fraternity and Sorority Community Philanthropy, Camp Dreamcatcher: Benefitting children and families affected and infected by HIV/AIDS

Non-Profit Organizations Served in 2013-2014 Adopt a Block

AIDS Fund

Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children

Alpha Phi Foundation for Women’s Cardiac Care

American Heart Association

American Red Cross

Autism Speaks

B+ Foundation

Becca’s Closet

Beiber & Lamberton Middle School

Borough of West Chester

Brandywine Hall Senior Center

Breast Cancer Education and Awareness

Bringing Hope Home

Camp Dreamcatcher

Center for Exceptional Learners

Chester County Food Bank

Chester County Homeless Shelter

Chester County Hospital NICU and Pediatrics DepartmentsChester Ridley-Crum Watersheds AssociationChildren’s Hospital of PhiladelphiaChildrens Miracle Network HospitalsChildren with Intellectual Disabilities Circle KHershey Medical Center ConKerr Cancer CampaignCooper University Hospital Child Abuse ProgramCystic Fibrosis FoundationDavid’s Drive 831Fame Fire Co. No. 3Fire Departments throughout PAFirst West Chester Fire Co.The Giving TreeHabitat for HumanityHattie McDaniel Cancer Awareness and Health Program

Holy Trinity ChurchThe House Ear InstituteThe Jimmy V FoundationThe Kay Yow Cancer FundKiwanis International Make A Wish FoundationMaternal and Child Health ConsortiumMiller- Keystone Blood CenterMontgomery County Public SchoolsMooresville High SchoolThe National Education AssociationNemours A. I. DuPont Children’s HospitalOverbrook High School of PhiladelphiaThe Painted Turtle CampPalmer House Senior Citizen HomePhi Sigma Sigma Foundation for School and College ReadinessPine Mountain Settlement School Police Athletic League

Relay for Life/American Cancer SocietyThe Renfrew CenterRonald McDonald HouseSafe HarborSalvation ArmyShe’s the FirstSickle Cell Disease Association Special OlympicsSt. Agnes DayroomSt. Judes Children’s Research HospitalStarkey Hearing FoundationSusan G Komen UNICEFUniversity Student HousingUS ArmyWest Chester Chamber of CommerceYMCAZeta Tau Alpha Foundation for Breast Cancer Education and Awareness

$15,791.80

Social

Chapter management

ritual

recruitment

Scholarship

Community Development

Health & Wellness

Leadership

Financial management

Cultural

Career planning

risk management0 10 20 30 40 50 60

n 2012-2013

n 2013-2014


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West Chester UniversityFraternity and Sorority Grade Report - Spring 2014

Rank +/- FA13 CHAPTER Council Chapter/

Colony SizeSem. GPA

+/- FA13

Cuml. GPA

+/- FA13

# of New Members

New Mem Sem GPA

New Mem Cuml. GPA

1 0 Delta Phi Epsilon PHC 112 3.49 0.08 3.36 0.052 0 Alpha Delta Pi PHC 83 3.40 0.00 3.38 0.00 4 3.73 3.6143 0 Zeta Tau Alpha PHC 101 3.384 0.06 3.26 0.054 3 Phi Sigma Sigma PHC 91 3.380 0.14 3.28 0.055 5 Alpha Phi PHC 85 3.377 0.15 3.27 0.076 3 Alpha Xi Delta PHC 92 3.371 0.14 3.26 0.077 -3 Alpha Sigma Tau PHC 105 3.32 0.04 3.21 0.048 4 Delta Sigma Theta BLGC 6 3.30 0.13 3.25 0.059 2 Phi Mu PHC 92 3.29 0.08 3.18 0.0410 -2 Delta Zeta PHC 86 3.27 0.03 3.19 0.0511 4 Alpha Kappa Alpha BLGC 9 3.25 0.15 3.27 0.14 6 3.22 3.3312 -6 Sigma Gamma Rho BLGC 6 3.23 -0.02 3.01 -0.0313 1 Chi Upsilon Sigma BLGC 5 3.13 0.00 2.95 -0.0714 -1 Sigma Lambda Gamma BLGC 12 3.03 -0.12 3.12 0.0115 -10 Zeta Phi Beta BLGC 6 2.93 -0.33 2.97 -0.01 5 2.87 2.89

1 0 Sigma Phi Epsilon IFC 44 3.34 0.04 3.22 0.06 8 3.04 3.082 0 Pi Kappa Alpha IFC 66 3.29 0.02 3.21 0.01 10 3.12 3.203 0 Delta Chi IFC 58 3.24 0.12 3.16 0.09 9 3.32 3.254 3 Lambda Alpha Upsilon BLGC 10 3.23 0.44 2.97 0.09 3 3.05 2.945 -1 Kappa Delta Rho IFC 23 3.16 0.14 3.02 0.01 5 3.14 3.036 n/a Kappa Sigma IFC 33 3.12 3.03 33 3.12 3.037 -1 Sigma Pi IFC 90 3.05 0.12 2.89 0.12 9 2.87 2.778 0 Sigma Alpha Epsilon IFC 53 3.04 0.27 2.86 0.109 -4 Pi Kappa Phi IFC 79 3.01 0.01 2.95 0.07 10 2.46 2.7410 n/a Alpha Epsilon Pi IFC 5 2.94 3.02 5 2.94 3.0211 -2 Sigma Lambda Beta BLGC 9 2.46 -0.27 2.60 0.00 2 2.83 2.7812 -1 Phi Beta Sigma BLGC 6 2.41 0.24 2.26 -0.07 2 1.72 1.8213 -3 Kappa Alpha Psi BLGC 11 2.32 -0.27 2.64 -0.0314 n/a Alpha Phi Alpha BLGC 6 2.24 2.64 2 2.40 2.84

Semester Cumulative Semester Cumulative

3.10 3.00 2.97 2.973.36 3.26 3.30 3.263.03 3.02

All Sorority (891) 13% FTE Women (6,968)

3.27 3.17 3.17 3.15

All New Members (113)

WCU Sororities

WCU Fraternities

FTE Men (4,560)

Com

mun

ity

Stat

istic

s Undergraduate FTE11,528

All Fraternity/Sorority (1,385) 12%

All Fraternity (493) 11%

Fraternity anD Sorority Community graDe report - Spring 2014

71.8% earned a 3.00 GPA or higher for the spring 2014 semester28.9% earned a 3.67 (Dean’s List status) for the spring 2014 semester

6.71% earned a 4.00 for the spring 2014 semester68.49% currently have a 3.00 or higher cumulative average at WCU

The average fraternity/sorority member at WCU earned a 3.21 GPA for the spring 2014 semester

The list of 272 fraternity and sorority members who achieved Dean’s List status can be found on the Fraternity and Sorority Life Website (www.wcupa.edu/greeklife).

http://www.wcupa.edu/greeklife

http://www.wcupa.edu/greeklife


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goVerning CounCiL upDateSBlack and Latino Greek Council (BLGC)

Strong leadership on the executive board and active chapter delegates contributed many positive changes in the BLGC community this year. Most notably, the annual Step Show competition returned in the spring semester, hosting nine groups in competition or exhibition categories. For the first time, the BLGC chapters competed together during Greek Week, placing in many events. Students benchmarked programming requirements from other institutions and implemented major changes to their governing documents to allow all chapters equal representation in annual programming and fundraising efforts. In April, BLGC was recognized with the “Ramdom Excellence Award” from the Office of Student Leadership and Involvement. The award honors groups for extraordinary work.

@WCU_BLGC

Interfraternity Council (IFC)

The Interfraternity Council had a very productive year. Adjusting to a new governing council structure, officer roles now have counterparts on PHC and BLGC, allowing for cross council collaboration. Responsibilities are more clearly defined so more progress is made, especially in the area of finance and operations. As they welcomed a new fraternity to campus, emphasis was placed on interpersonal relationships and providing current members the opportunity to get to know one another, culminating in a 50 man paintballing trip that will hopefully become an annual tradition. Spring semester saw the return of the IFC Judicial Board, with their first hearing serving as a very developmental process for all those involved.

@WestChesterIFC

Panhellenic Council (PHC)

Last fall, Panhellenic hosted another record formal recruitment process, expanding the events to two weekends to accommodate all women and relieve academic pressures from members. Panhellenic membership continues to comprise over 70 percent of the total fraternity and sorority community. The women are ever-present on campus, assisting with campus events like MLK Day of Service, Pink Zone, and Relay for Life. The community celebrated unity through Badge Day festivities, Panhellenic Pride Week, and a PHC Camp Dreamcatcher fundraiser. They are currently planning an all fraternity and sorority Alternative Spring Break project for March 2015. In addition, the women continued to support new chapters through the extension process by assisting the colonizing chapters and hosting campus visits for incoming groups.

WCU_Panhellenic

http://www.twitter.com/WCU_BLGC

http://www.twitter.com/WestChesterIFC

http://www.twitter.com/WCU_Panhellenic


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j j j j j

“Leadership is something inside everyone, and Fraternity Life brought that out of me in full-force.”

-Ryan Schaefer, Delta Chi

Fraternity anD Sorority aWarDS anD reCognitionFive Star Chapter Assessment (spring 2013-fall 2013)

The Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life conducts a yearly assessment of its chapters to determine how the core values of individual fraternities and sororities support the community at WCU. The assessment is composed of five different categories through which individual chapter performance is measured: scholarship development, chapter development, new member development, risk management, and service to campus. A score of 90 or higher in a category means the chapter is achieving minimum standards set by the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life, and the chapter earns a star. The chapter that receives the highest point value in each of the categories below is recognized with the overall excellence award for that category.

Overall Excellence in Scholarship DevelopmentZeta Tau Alpha and Delta Chi

Overall Excellence in Chapter DevelopmentPhi Sigma Sigma and Delta Chi

Overall Excellence in New Member DevelopmentZeta Tau Alpha and Sigma Phi Epsilon

Overall Excellence in Risk ManagementPhi Mu and Sigma Phi Epsilon

Overall Excellence in Service to CampusDelta Zeta and Delta Chi

Overall Excellence in PhilanthropyZeta Tau Alpha

Chapter DevelopmentAlpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.Alpha PhiDelta ChiDelta Phi EpsilonDelta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.Lambda Alpha Upsilon Fraternity, Inc.Phi MuPhi Sigma SigmaSigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.Sigma Phi EpsilonZeta Tau Alpha

Scholarship DevelopmentAlpha PhiAlpha Sigma TauDelta ChiZeta Tau Alpha

New Member DevelopmentAlpha PhiChi Upsilon Sigma National Latin Sorority, Inc. Delta ChiDelta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.Delta ZetaPhi Mu

Phi Sigma SigmaSigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.Sigma Phi EpsilonZeta Tau Alpha

Service to CampusAlpha Phi Alpha Sigma TauAlpha Xi DeltaDelta ChiDelta ZetaPhi MuPhi Sigma Sigma

Risk ManagementDelta ChiDelta ZetaPhi MuPhi Sigma SigmaSigma Phi EpsilonZeta Tau Alpha

PhilanthropyZeta Tau Alpha


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inDiViDuaL aWarDSIn addition to the chapter area of excellence awards, recognition is also offered to chapters and individuals who have provided exemplary leadership to the community throughout the spring 2013 and fall 2013 semesters. The honored individuals were nominated by their peers or advisors and recognized at the Fraternity and Sorority Awards Ceremony in April.

Charles W. Warner Fraternity of the Year James J. Jackson Sorority of the YearDelta Chi Zeta Tau Alpha

Fraternity Man of the Year Sorority Woman of the YearJohn Scheck, Sigma Phi Epsilon Kirsten Cirelli, Delta Phi Epsilon

Fraternity Emerging Leaders Sorority Emerging LeadersDan Mitchell, Delta Chi Kate Edwards, Phi MuRyan Walter, Sigma Phi Epsilon Anjelica Finore, Delta Phi Epsilon

Chapter Advisor of the Year Peter C. Galloway Faculty/Staff Advisor of the YearTiffany Coleman, Phi Sigma Sigma Brady Colyer, Sigma Phi Epsilon

Outstanding Chapter Presidents James Weese Award for Ashley Cardenas, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. New Member Academic AchievementDom Dallatore, Kappa Delta Rho Elizabeth Andrew, Alpha Delta PiLacy Preddie, Delta Zeta Joseph Sinibaldi, Pi Kappa Alpha

Fraternal Values Society AwardsKyle Gallagher, Sigma Phi EpsilonAisha Hynson, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.Jessie McNevin, Delta Phi EpsilonChelsea Brunie, Phi MuEvan Booth, Delta ChiCorin Chapman, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Student Leadership and Involvement Awards*:

Emerging Leader Awards:Ruth Hochberg, Delta Phi EpsilonRyan Schaefer, Delta Chi

WCU Leader of the Year: Anthony LaFratte, Delta Chi

Citizen Leader, Golden Ram Awardand The Beverly A. Domenick Student Leader Award: Ilana Berger, Delta Phi Epsilon

Senior Leaders of the Year: Adam Goral, Delta Chi Christine Mackin, Phi MuPhilip Hagstotz, Delta Chi

Diane DeVestern Ethical Leadership Award: Malik Muhammed, Sigma Phi Epsilon

Most Improved Organization of the Year: Kappa Delta Rho

*Student leaders and organizations in this category were recognized by the Office of Student Leadership and Involvement during the Leadership Awards in 2014.

Outstanding Chapter Presidents awardees: Lacy Preddie, Dom Dallatore and Ashley Cardenas

Chapter Presidents Evan Booth and Kira Schollenberger represent Delta Chi and Zeta Tau Alpha as Fraternity and Sorority of the Year


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Community HigHLigHtSNational Conference Attendance

February marked the second year for community leaders to represent West Chester University at the Association of Fraternal Leadership and Values (AFLV) and National Black Greek Leadership Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana. The conference allowed attending officers to educate themselves about best practices and interact with other leaders from across the country. WCU delegates focused on sessions that would best benefit the campus community, including risk management and recruitment programs.

“Initially, I thought leadership meant always being in control. But I quickly learned it is not about you. It is about encouraging others to grow to their fullest potential, and being their support system on the way.”

– Corin Chapman, President of the Black and Latino Greek Council

Fraternal Values SocietyThe Fraternal Values Society inducted its Beta Class in April, adding to the initiates from last year. The selected students were chosen for their commitment to living their values, and a willingness to create dialogue on campus about the values movement.

Members of the Beta Class of the Alpha Iota Chapter at West Chester are:

Michael Arrington, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.Evan Booth, Delta Chi Chelsea Brunie, Phi MuAshley Cardenas, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.Liana Carvahlo Pruna, Phi MuCorin Chapman, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.Ashley Henry, Alpha Sigma TauMelissa Hoot, Delta Phi EpsilonCaroline McGowan, Phi Sigma Sigma Amanda Purelli, Delta ZetaAaron Rapsinski, Sigma Phi EpsilonKaitlyn Shaffer, Phi Sigma Sigma Madison Sloan, Phi MuTori Van Horn, Phi Sigma Sigma Deanna Villari, Phi Sigma Sigma

WCU delegates at AFLV: Corin Chapman, Amanda Purelli, Ryan Schaefer, Georgy Weber, Brianna Dawes and Dom Dallatore

Initiates (Back row, L-R): Ashley Cardenas, Michael Arrington, Liana Carvahlo Pruna, Melissa Hoot, Kaitlyn Shaffer, Corin Chapman, Caroline McGowan, Aaron Rapsinski (Front row, L-R): Evan Booth, Madison Sloan, Tori Van Horn, Deanna Villari, Amanda Purelli, Ashley Henry

http://www.wcuquad.com/news/greek-life-leaders-participate-in-leadership-conference-1.2992579#.Ud7ImRaVvGu


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greek Week restructured

Each year, Greek Week brings together chapters for a variety of activities related to service, athletics, entertainment, and interfraternalism. In the past, pairs were formed for chapter bonding, but the schedule was structured for chapters to compete individually. At the end of the week, fraternity and sorority awards were distributed separately. In the spirit of true community, Greek Week 2014 was restructured for all events to be hosted in pairs. All activities were comprised of joint male and female teams. Panhellenic and IFC groups competed in pairs and triads, with the nine BLGC chapters competing as one team due to their chapter sizes. Teams were named for decades based on the week’s “Through the Decades” theme. Events included: lipsync, god/goddess pageant, field games, canned food sculpture (benefiting Chester County Food Bank), and dodgeball. WCU also hosted a speaker, James Robilotta, for a Greek Forum, and made a donation of toys to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The successful week was chaired by Maggie Kelly from Alpha Phi. First place was awarded to a highly competitive triad: Delta Phi Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, and Phi Sigma Sigma.

Alpha Phi and Sigma Phi Epsilon at Dodgeball

Delta Chi and Alpha Sigma Tau at Lipsync BLGC performers at Greek God/Goddess

Representatives from the winning teams with the 2014 Greek Week trophy


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BLgC Step Show returns The Black and Latino Greek Council (BLGC) was pleased to host the return of its Step Show, one of West Chester University’s largest campus traditions. On Wednesday, April 23, 2014, nine chapters from the Black and Latino Greek Council showcased their talents and competed for the chance to win $1,000.00 in prize money. WCU chapters participated in area step shows in the past two years, but were anxious to reestablish their tradition at WCU. Teams were judged on several points of criteria, with most emphasis on overall presentation, precision, and degree of difficulty.

Congratulations to the winners:

Grand Prize WinnerSigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

First Runners-UpAlpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Second Runners-UpSigma Lambda Gamma National Latin Sorority, Inc. Sigma Lambda Beta International Fraternity

alumni Board re-establishedIn the latest version of the University Strategic Plan, our office has been charged with re-establishing the Fraternity and Sorority Alumni Board. The project will provide valuable connections to current and former members. Alumni can get involved in a number of ways, and are encouraged to reach out, update contact information, share stories, and keep an eye out for volunteer opportunities in the future! For more information, visit the alumni page of our website.

Grand Prize Winners: Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

http://www.wcupa.edu/_services/stu.greeklife/alumni.aspx


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EXPANSION UPDATE: WHY WE CHOOSE TO GROW

At the end of the spring 2013 semester, the community totaled 1,087 students. One year later, membership has grown 21%, with total membership at 1,385. In the past five years, total membership in fraternities and sororities has grown by 51%. Using this past year to mirror growth statistics, the community could very easily be at 1,700 members by spring 2015.

The sheer growth in student enrollment is one valid explanation for the increase in fraternity and sorority membership. However, one could also argue that it is something more. Our chapters are more values based than ever, and young men and women want to join organizations in which they can grow and learn life skills that they will use far beyond their college years. Long gone are the days where joining a fraternity or sorority is primarily about finding a regular party to attend. While our chapters have fun, the “social” outlet membership provides has evolved to redefine social in a different capacity – less about red solo cups and more about healthy interpersonal relationships.

WCU students involved in Fraternity and Sorority Life have higher retention and graduation rates than those who do not join these organizations. Based on data provided by the Office of Institution Research, members of the Fall 2007 cohort of first time, full time, first year students retained or graduated at rates from 9-16% higher than non-fraternal members across all timeframes measured. What we hope this means is that as WCU continues to grow, and as membership in fraternities and sororities grows as well, more students will graduate.

In the spring of 2013, both the Interfraternity Council and Panhellenic Council established long term expansion plans that will add an additional three IFC chapters and two PHC chapters over the next three to four years. Like Alpha Delta Pi and Pi Kappa Alpha, these chapters will start with national staff members coming to campus and recruiting a group of students with the unique drive to be founding members. We could not have predicted the level of success of the two colonization processes.

The next year will certainly inform the continued growth plans. As each new chapter begins, we will push our current chapters to recommit to their founding principles and the collective community will surely do their part to fulfil the values and vision of the University, further emphasizing why we choose to grow.

The reflections of two of the founding members demonstrate the power of creating a legacy on campus that will influence future generations.

“It was great to see the formation of bonds developed through such diverse, yet like-minded people seeking to grow both as individuals and leaders. I am excited to see what the future of Pike at WCU has in store.” Tory Getz, Pi Kappa Alpha

“Joining a new sorority on campus was one of the best decisions I ever made. Being a founding sister of such a huge national organization is an amazing feeling.” Cory Amenta, Alpha Delta Pi


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NEW CHAPTERS

WCU WELCOMED THE FOLLOWINGNEW FRATERNITIES AND SORORITIES IN 2013-2014:

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated*Founded: December 6, 1904; Cornell University Nickname: Alphas Color: Black and Old GoldSymbol: Great Sphinx of GizaPhilanthropy: See national website Active chapters: 800+

Alpha Epsilon Pi FraternityFounded: November 7, 1913; New York University Nickname: AEPiColors: Gold and BlueSymbol: LionPhilanthropy: See national websiteActive undergraduate chapters: 155

Pi Kappa Alpha FraternityFounded: March 1, 1868; University of VirginiaNickname: PIKEColors: Garnet and Old GoldSymbol: Shield and DiamondPhilanthropy: determined by local chapterActive undergraduate chapters: 220

Alpha Delta Pi Sorority Founded: May 15, 1851; Wesleyan CollegeNickname: ADPiColors: Azure and WhiteSymbol: Diamond Philanthropy: Ronald McDonald House CharitiesActive undergraduate chapters: 146

Kappa Sigma FraternityFounded: December 10, 1869; New York University Nickname: Kappa SigColors: Scarlet, White and Emerald GreenSymbol: Star and Crescent Philanthropy: A greater cause to Military HeroesActive undergraduate chapters: 316

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated*Founded: January 16, 1920; Howard University Nickname: ZetasColor: Royal Blue and WhiteSymbol: White DovePhilanthropy: See national website Active chapters: 850

WCU LOOKS FORWARD TO WELCOMING THE FOLLOWINGORGANIZATIONS IN 2014-2015:

Phi Gamma Delta FraternityFounded: May 1, 1848 at Washington & Jefferson CollegeNickname: FIJI or Phi GamMotto: “Friendship, the sweetest influence”Colors: Royal PurpleSymbol: Black Diamond with White StarPhilanthropy: United Service Organization (USO) and the American Red CrossActive undergraduate chapters: 150

Alpha Sigma Alpha SororityFounded: November 15, 1901 at Longwood UniversityNickname: ASAMotto: “Aspire. Seek. Attain”Colors: Crimson and Pearl WhiteSymbol: Phoenix, Crown, Palm Tree and StarPhilanthropy: S. June Smith Center, Special Olympics and Girls on the RunActive undergraduate chapters: 90

* Reactivated Chapter

Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life110 W. Rosedale Avenue

Sykes Student Union, Room 238West Chester, Pennsylvania 19383

610-436-2117www.wcupa.edu/greeklife

www.wcupa.edu/greeklife

Documents

2013-2014 WCU Fraternity and Sorority Annual Report