Member Experience Survey Results

Data Reveals Importance of Alumnae Involvement in Personal Development of Collegiate Members

In summer 2021, the national organization invited all members to participate in a membership experience assessment. Nearly 4,000 members responded, representing 100 percent of collegiate and alumnae chapters, as well as past and current volunteers, and members from a variety of generations.

Demographics— such as age, race, and religion —were collected to help identify patterns, trends, and any gaps between members who have a more positive experience than those who do not.

Assessment questions were carefully designed to measure the impacts of Tri Sigma's strategic initiatives—including seven major priorities and 26 goal areas. Collected data is used to determine programming, volunteer, and training needs. It also provides a baseline for future measures of success.

For example, results showed resources previously used for personal development for alumnae could be more effectively allocated to building organizational affinity and more innovative, creative programming for chapter leaders and advisor teams.

“Assessment results have influenced our member development framework for our educational offerings,” said Lorin Phillips, Associate Executive Director of Enablement. “This will be heavily reflected in the learning outcomes for future in-person, peerled and online programming.”

Data also reinforces the significant value of having engaged advisor teams. Members from chapters with an active Chapter Advisory Board (CAB) felt Tri Sigma added more value to their lives and contributed positively to their personal development. They also feel more empowered and reported higher levels of resilience and feeling prepared for life after college.

“You don't have to be an expert to make an impact. When advisors simply make an effort to be active and present, it makes a direct and significant impact on the collegiate member experience and increases their connection to the organization,” said Lorin. “As advisors continue their own training and development, the impact becomes even greater.”

While 39 percent of alumnae respondents reported having been involved with the organization postgraduation, this number is significantly lower than the 46 percent reported across NPC sororities. According to a 2020 report from Cygnus Applied Research, 32.5 percent of sorority alumnae who are not currently engaged with their organization would be willing to serve in this capacity if asked. Still, 93 percent of Tri Sigma collegiate chapters have vacancies in their CAB.

Collegiate members from chapters with higher alumnae involvement reported higher levels of competency in the areas of collaboration, civil discourse, communication, critical thinking, wellbeing, or social excellence.

“The development of these soft skills are not only vital to the overall strength of a collegiate chapter, but to the member's ability to thrive after graduation,” said Ellen Elmore, Director of Chapter Services. “CAB service is one of the most direct ways to fulfill our promise to empower women.”

In addition to measuring the success of our strategic plan and identifying areas of opportunity, the assessment helps us pinpoint areas of strength, such as:

90% OF MEMBERS COMPLETE THEIR DEGREE IN LESS THAN 5 YEARS

85% EITHER SECURE A JOB WITHIN SIX MONTHS OF GRADUATION OR PURSUE AN ADVANCED DEGREE

93% REPORT BEHAVIOR CONSISTENT WITH STRONG CHARACTER

90% ARE OPEN TO THE EXPERIENCES AND IDENTITIES OF OTHERS