2021 Greek Book

E X P L O R E

Fraternity & SororityLife!

GREEK STUDENT HEADCOUNT BY COLLEGE

DURING THE

01260 220ACADEMIC

STEM 30%

YEAR

HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES

STEM

23%

25%

HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES

YSU

THE

28%

CREATIVE ARTS & COMMUNICATIONS

9%

GREEK

COMMUNIT Y HAS

DONATED 6,376 8,040 HOURS

EDUCATION

CREATIVE ARTS & 9% COMMUNICATIONS

LIBERAL ARTS, SOCIAL SCIENCE, EDUCATION

3%

24%

LIBERAL ARTS & SOCIAL SCIENCE 10%

BUSINESS 19% BUSINESS

20%

OF COMMUNITY SERVICE

& RAISED

$56,000 $154,477 FOR THEIR

PHILANTHROPIES

THERE ARE OVER

9 GREEKS MILLION

70%

OF FRATERNITY & SORORITY MEMBERS GRADUATE IN

4 YEARS

NATIONALLY

(U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION)

(U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION)

T 481

he Greek system at Youngstown State University (YSU) is full of tradition, brotherhood/sisterhood and pride.

From participating in Homecoming and Welcome Week events, to playing Intramural Sports, Greeks know how to show school spirit at YSU. Our members are proudly represented at YSU athletic events, hold leadership positions in numerous student organizations, and carry out some of the top philanthropy efforts at the University. We are confident you can find a home in one of our organizations and ensure a true Penguin Experience.

WELCOME Dear Potential Member of the Greek Community, Welcome to Youngstown State University! Your experiences as a student here at YSU should be among the most memorable years of your life, and we are here to help make that happen. It is our hope that you will become a part of our future and leave a legacy at YSU and in the fraternity and sorority community. Our Greek Life at YSU is vibrant with 11 chapters under three governing councils. Although each council has different focal points, operational structures, and history, there is always emphasis placed on community development, leadership, and learning.

We are proud of the many opportunities our students have available to them as they become active on campus during their collegiate careers. Becoming a part of the Greek system is just one of those options but is very rewarding. Membership in a fraternity or sorority can lead to many other exciting opportunities both during college and after graduation. Bonds that have been forged and the brotherhood/sisterhood that has been established last long after your college years, while the fun that has been shared are the memories that will last a lifetime. Our groups excel in academics and are most visible when working on behalf of the many philanthropies that they represent. They serve in many leadership roles on campus, developing their individual potential while reaping the benefits of a group experience.

Please take time to learn about each of these organizations and consider joining one. Recruitment functions and Greek 101 sessions will give you the chance to learn about each chapter and what it means to be a part of the Greek System at YSU. A suggestion throughout the process is to keep an open mind and choose a group with which you feel most at ease. Look at its many qualities such as leadership, character, and brotherhood/sisterhood— then choose the organization in which you share the common ideals of its members. Also, be sure to do your research, attend programs, and get to know members of the chapter.

Fraternity and sorority membership is a lifelong commitment—not just something you will experience for your undergraduate days. We look forward to welcoming you into the fraternity and sorority community!

Co ntac t I n fo rmat io n The Office of Student Activities Kilcawley Center, 2234

(330) 941-3575 studentactivities@ysu.edu www.ysu.edu/greeklife YSU Greek Campus Life @ysugreek @ysugreek

TABLE OF CONTENTS Brotherhood, Sisterhood & Friendship.. Pg. 3-4 Scholarship .............................................. Pg. 5-6 Service ...................................................... Pg. 7-8 Leadership & Involvement ...................... Pg. 9-10 Traditions ................................................. Pg. 11-12 Interfraternity Council (IFC).................... Pg. 13-14 Alpha Phi Delta Fraternity.......................... Pg. 15-16 Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity ............... Pg. 17-18 Sigma Chi Fraternity .................................... Pg.19-20 Sigma Tau Gamma Fraternity ................... Pg. 21-22 Theta Chi Fraternity ..................................... Pg. 23-24 National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC).... Pg. 25-26 Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc ............. Pg. 27-28 Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc ............... Pg. 29-30 Panhellenic Council (NPC) ..................... Pg. 31-32 Alpha Omicron Pi Sorority.......................... Pg. 33-34 Alpha Xi Delta Sorority................................ Pg. 35-36 Delta Zeta Sorority........................................ Pg. 37-38 Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority............................... Pg. 39-40 Greek Terminology................................. Pg. 41-42

Sincerely,

Carrie Anderson Associate Director, Student Activities

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3

SISTERHOOD, BROTHERHOOD, AND FRIENDSHIP J

oining a sorority or a fraternity is the start of a new life. You will be welcomed into a family of men or women, who will stand beside you, support you, encourage you, and respect you. These men and women will become your brothers and sisters, friends, and mentors for the rest of your life. All sororities and fraternities are different, yet they are built on the inherent principles set forth to further develop you as an individual and college student.

During your first semester of affiliation, sororities and fraternities plan activities to develop your knowledge of the chapter you have joined, better acquainting you with the members and informing you of the goals of that chapter. All sororities and fraternities plan different member activities like study groups, sisterhoods, mixers, formal dinners, and service projects that will give you the chance to learn more about the other members of your chapter.

Joining a sorority or fraternity leads to lifelong relationships and unending support from your new sisters and brothers. Thus women and men will embody the true sense of the words sisterhood and brotherhood. They will be the ones to stay up to study with you, sit and talk to you when you need advice, help you deal with tough times, and laugh with you when life smiles down on you. The meaning of sisterhood and brotherhood will not only encompass what these individuals will do for you, but what you will be able to contribute to the chapter as a unique individual.

“When I joined Sigma Alpha Epsilon a whole new world was opened up to me. I didn’t know I could be welcomed somewhere so fast and gain so many people who care about me so quickly.

The brotherhood of fraternities on YSU’s campus is amazing! I can even rely on brothers not from my own chapter, and they’re always there to help!”

Nicholas Locke | Senior Accounting Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity

“I joined Delta Zeta for not only the tremendous leadership opportunities but also the bond of our sisterhood. I didn’t have a lot of friends growing up and joining a sorority changed my life for the better. Being in a sorority means that you have a circle of successful and amazing women who will always be there for you!”

Gillian Pirone | Junior Middle Childhood Education Delta Zeta Sorority

4

5

SCHOLARSHIP S

cholarship is a key component to Greek Life, and all sororities and fraternities realize the importance of emphasizing this area every semester. The focus on scholarship begins before a YSU student even becomes a member of the Greek community because a minimum grade point average of a 2.5 or better is required in order to participate in recruitment. Any potential new member with a GPA lower than this will not be permitted to go through the recruitment process.

Though many candidates easily surpass this GPA hurdle, each sorority and fraternity has its own minimum GPA requirement that an individual must meet in order to join a chapter.

Fraternities and sororities offer many scholarship programs and designated study hours. Many scholarships are also awarded through individual and national chapters. Greek letter organizations were founded on the principle of successful scholarship and Youngstown State University does not neglect this important factor. In addition, each chapter is expected to maintain an acceptable overall grade point average. Last year, all councils averaged above the all-undergraduate grade point average.

National Greek Leadership Honor Society Order of Omega is a national leadership honor society that was founded in 1959 at the University of Miami. Order of Omega has over 500 chapters in North America that recognize students for their scholarship, leadership, character, and service to the Greek, campus and local community. The organization strives to recognize those fraternity men and women who have attained a high standard of scholarship and leadership in interfraternal activities, to encourage them to continue along this line, and to inspire others to strive for similar conspicuous attainment.

Membership in the Omicron Nu chapter at Youngstown State University is only available to the top 5% of Greeks. To be selected for membership, one must be of junior or senior status with a 3.00 overall grade point average or higher. Initiation takes place each spring during the awards portion of the annual Greek Sing competition.

“Being around like minded and motivated individuals in my fraternity has pushed me to do my best to excel in the classroom.

Achieving academic success is very important to us and is one of the main reasons why I joined.

The fraternity gives a sense of accountability and allows us to strive for growth and success.”

Nathaniel Willison | Sophomore Mathematics Theta Chi Fraternity

FA L L 2 0 2 0 3.20 3.33

SPRING 2020 3.23 3.27

FA L L 2 0 1 9 3.12 3.19

SPRING 2019 3.13 3.19

FA L L 2 0 1 8 3.08 3.17

SPRING 2018 3.09 3.19

6

7

SERVICE T

he interests and concerns of Greek men and women go beyond the confines of campus life. Sororities and fraternities sponsor a multitude of activities and events each year to impact the community and to earn money for their special philanthropies or identified causes. Each chapter takes time to organize an all-campus event to benefit its designated philanthropy as well as donating hours of community service during each school year. Over the last year despite the pandemic, the YSU Greek Community has donated over 6,376 hours of community service and raised over $56,000 for their philanthropies.

The YSU campus chapter of Order of Omega Greek Honor Society also sponsors a volunteer day each year to coincide with National Volunteer Week called “Greeks in the Streets.” In the spring semester, 97 Greek volunteers provided a total of 286 volunteer hours by the end of the day. These events are not only beneficial to the charities that each chapter supports, but they also help create a more positive Greek image to the public.

The Greek Community benefits such organizations as the Beatitude House, Akron Children’s Hospital, Autism Speaks, Children’s Miracle Network, Huntsman Cancer Foundation, Special Olympics, United Services Organization, Arthritis Foundation, Youngstown Hearing and Speech, Painted Turtle Camp, Bright Pink, Joanie Abdu Comprehensive Breast Cancer Center, Breast Cancer Education and Awareness, and the Cornea Research Foundation.

The opportunities available to benefit philanthropies and the community are endless. The ability to donate time, heart, and energy is one of the most important qualities a person will develop and cultivate while being a member of YSU’s Greek System.

“The experiences I have had being involved as a leader in Greek Life are invaluable; I’ve hosted the Order of Omega Scholarship Night, ran a Greek Life social media campaign, and put on multiple philanthropy events. These experiences sparked a passion in my life for philanthropic work, which inspired me to take my passions into the classroom. I took up a minor in Nonprofit Leadership to utilize my leadership abilities and artistic creativity while following my passion of community service. I am forever grateful that my experience in Greek Life has opened the doors up for opportunity in the future by giving me the confidence to view the future in ways that will fulfill me as a leader, student, and woman.”

Galena Lopuchovsky | Senior Industrial and Systems Engineering Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority

“Sigma Chi has given me many opportunities to grow as an individual, one of these was organizing our annual Roquacade benefit concert. The concert proceeds benefit our philanthropy, the Huntsman Cancer Foundation. This past year, we were able to raise over $5,000 to help fund cancer research and treatment.”

Trenton Peluso | Junior Information Technology Sigma Chi Fraternity

Measuring the Impact of YSU GREEKS 2020 Academic Year

Participated in the In Total the Fraternity and Sorority Autism Speaks Walk in Cleveland, Community Completed 6,376 generating $4,748 for the cause Service Hours

Together, raised over $14,489 for Akron Children’s Hospital by participating in Guinathon

Collected over 2,000 clothing items for Good Will

Donated 2,324 items to the Student Government Food Pantry

Collected $710 through Sisters In Total the Fraternity for Soldiers to support US Military and Sorority Community Soldiers and their families Donated $56,000 to Philanthropies

Sponsored 4 girls in third world countries through Circle of Sisterhood by funding an entire year of their education

$5,850 was raised during Pink Out Week benefiting Breast Cancer Education and Awareness programs

*This is not an all inclusive list but meant to highlight some of the impact our YSU Greeks have had on the community.

8

9

LEADERSHIP AND INVOLVEMENT M

embership within a fraternity or a sorority provides countless opportunities to be involved in leadership roles. As a chapter officer or director of an event or community service project, members can further develop their personal leadership skills.

Each chapter has committee structures which allow involvement in all operational aspects of that specific Greek organization. Additionally, chapters provide educational programming in such areas as time management, leadership, communication, future planning, and other interesting topics. Greek men and women also participate in campus-wide leadership activities.

Being Greek also provides a resource network when looking for employment. Greek alumni understand the Greek experience of being a team player; being an individual; the desire to achieve high goals, both inside and outside of the educational setting; and the high commitment of its membership to give something back to the community. Greeks often hire Greeks, and, in this constantly changing world, it is important to establish relationships beyond the boundaries of Youngstown.

Interaction with alumni or chapter advisors can begin building bridges for the future.

The desire to excel, both in and out of the classroom, and commitment to the betterment of the community are traits that employers look for and recognize as attributes of those active in fraternity and sorority life. Members also are encouraged by their chapter to become involved in campus-wide activities.

Greek Life is a gateway to campus involvement, such as Student Government, Intramural Sports, Athletics, and many other social and honorary organizations. In fact, many of Youngstown State’s chapters make it a goal to have representation in every organization and have at least one member attend every campus-wide event.

Finding a balance between your academics and social activities is an important part of college life.

Involvement in both areas provides a well-rounded college experience, which will only improve the chance of excelling in the future.

“Since I’ve joined, I not only gained forever brothers, but I have attended leadership conferences, took leadership roles, and made many connections with other fraternities and sororities. I would not be where I am now in life without the brothers of Sigma Tau Gamma. They have pushed me to be more involved in campus life and taught me to take risks that will benefit me in the long run. I am thankful for all the opportunities that they have given me.”

Mario Campalong | Junior Criminal Justice Sigma Tau Gamma Fraternity

“Being a member of AOII has helped me become a leader in many different ways whether it be having someone’s back when they need it the most, being able to communicate effectively, and most importantly, practicing compassion.”

Olivia Bordonaro | Senior Business Administration Alpha Omicron Pi Sorority

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11

TRADITIONS GREEK SING

Greek Sing is the annual song-and-dance event featuring the fraternities and sororities competing in group performances to showcase their talents, build community within their organizations and to have fun!

Each year the Greek Campus Life Council chooses a theme that all chapters use as the basis to create their performance that must not exceed seven minutes. A panel of five judges critiques their singing ability as well as presentation including entertainment quality, choreography, enthusiasm, difficulty level, costumes and props. Additionally, any individual or group of individuals may choose to enter the open class competition to sing and perform a song that does not have to be related to the overall theme.

The event, which began in 1952, is the culmination of all YSU Greek activities for the academic year. It is traditionally held in April at Stambaugh Auditorium on Fifth Avenue just north of campus and is an event that is open to the public.

GREEK WEEK

For years, Greek Week has brought the Greek Community together for a series of events for the sake of friendly competition as well as supporting a joint service project. Fraternities and sororities compete within their councils in events such as a Lip Sync, Trivia, Bocce, Field Day Festivities, and a Food and Clothing Drive to benefit community agencies though the United Way. The week concludes with Greek God and Goddess where each chapter nominates a representative to compete in a talent competition.

That night the Greek God and Goddess are awarded after the panel of judges has evaluated them on their talent, formal wear and responses to the question and answer session. Following that presentation the fraternity and sorority Greek Week Champions are announced based on their point totals from the week’s competitions.

Each year the Greek Campus Life Council selects a committee of members from each organization to choose the events and service initiatives that will be the focus of the week. Traditionally the week is held during the month of November.

HOMECOMING WEEK

Fraternities and sororities at YSU take pride in being involved in the Homecoming festivities. Every year the chapters pair up to contend in the float building competition. This week emphasizes the importance of celebrating Penguin Pride while promoting fraternal connections with other chapters along with fostering some competitive spirit. Greek alumni also return to campus for the Parade and Game Day festivities for a chance to come back to their alma mater to see their old chapter and catch up with brothers and sisters.

INTRAMURAL SPORTS

YSU boasts an intramural program that offers many activities throughout the school year. Each year the Interfraternity and Panhellenic Councils vote on what three sports they will compete against each other during the course of the semester. These sports range from Flag Football and Volleyball, to Ultimate Frisbee and Bubble Soccer. Each year there seems to be plenty of competition on the field of play and intramural sports is just one example of the positive programs to keep members active and help them network within the Greek Community.

“Joining Greek Life has absolutely defined my time at Youngstown State. As a freshman, I craved belonging in an organization that was both exciting and empowering; a community to be proud of. I found that and more within my chapter Zeta Tau Alpha.

My ability to take part in a variety of Greek events has given me lifelong friendships and memories to never forget. Yearly events like Greek Week and Greek Sing allowed me, like so many before, to explore my creative, athletic, academic, and, yes, performative abilities to the test alongside my closest friends. While these are friendly competitions, events such as these showcase the chapters’ dedication to academics, values, and philanthropy as well as to each other! This sense of unity and belonging is exactly what I was hoping to find in school as a collegiate and what I will always admire most about our Greek Community.”

Paige Stewart | Junior Biology Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority

12

INTERFRATERNITY COUNCIL “My experience in Greek Life has been nothing short of fantastic. When I first came to YSU, I was hesitant to join, as fraternities were something I always dismissed as not for me. But when I decided to go to one event, I fell in love with it. Upon joining my chapter, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, I truly felt what it was like to have brothers beside you for the best and worst moments in your life. If I had not decided to leave my room and go to a recruitment event, I don’t believe I would be the same person.

“Greek Life has shown me what it takes to be a leader, not just within your chapter, but also within the community. It has let my passion for volunteering flourish and has given me so many opportunities to lead efforts towards philanthropy by serving a cause completely.”

13

Ian Ward | Senior Biology Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity Interfraternity Council President

NORTH-AMERICAN INTERFRATERNITY CONFERENCE, INC. The North-American Interfraternity Conference (NIC), founded in 1909, is a trade association representing 61 national and international men’s fraternities. Members are represented on more than 800 college campuses in the United States and Canada, with approximately 380,000 undergraduate members.

INTERFRATERNITY COUNCIL EXECUTIVE BOARD The Interfraternity Council (IFC) is the local governing body for National Interfraternity Conference fraternity chapters at Youngstown State University. IFC works to promote the highest ideals of scholarship, leadership, service, and fraternalism among its member organizations. The council provides educational programming on a variety of topics to fraternity chapters, while also providing administrative guidance for policy, procedure, recruitment, academic issues, and governance. The council is made up of eight elected executive officers and a legislative body of fraternity representatives. Delegates are the voting members of their chapters on all community-wide issues.

RECRUITMENT Fraternity Recruitment is held each fall and spring semester for all fraternities. Each one looks for individuals who can contribute to their chapter in a variety of ways. Grades, activities, talents and interests are all considered individually and together in the selection of new members. Likewise, fraternities consider whether their group has something to offer to specific students as a new member. As men go through recruitment, they will find certain fraternities they like.

After a few visits, and if the chapter wishes to extend an offer of membership, an interested student will be offered a chapter bid. This is an invitation to join the fraternity and should be considered seriously. A student may be offered several chapter bids but can only sign one, so it is important to take time and choose carefully.

NINE BASIC EXPECTATIONS OF FRATERNITY MEMBERSHIP 1.

I will know and understand the ideals expressed in my Fraternity Ritual and will strive to incorporate them in life.

2. I will strive for academic achievement and will practice academic integrity.

3. I will respect the dignity of all persons; therefore, I will not physically, mentally, psychologically, or sexually abuse or haze.

4. I will protect the health and safety of all human beings.

5. I will respect my property and the property of others; therefore, I will neither abuse nor tolerate the abuse of property.

6. I will meet my financial obligations.

7. I will neither use nor support the use of illegal drugs; I will neither misuse nor support the misuse of alcohol.

8. I acknowledge that a clean and attractive environment is essential to both physical and mental health; therefore, I will do all in my power to see that the chapter property is properly cleaned and maintained.

9. I will challenge my members to abide by these fraternal expectations and confront those who violate them.

14

INTERFRATERNITY COUNCIL

ALPHA PHI DELTA BETA OMICRON

15

ΑΦΔ

ALPHA PHI DELTA (APD) fraternity was founded at Syracuse University in 1914 by a small group of Italian-American men. While initially founded as a social society, it quickly evolved into one of the most unique American college fraternities. Alpha Phi Delta still upholds its original Italian traditions and principles.

By only seeking the utmost quality of men to join and become leaders, Alpha Phi Delta distinguishes itself amongst many other fraternities. Membership in Alpha Phi Delta is a lifelong bond.

There are well over 20,000 members spanning the entire globe.

Alpha Phi Delta prepares college men for challenges and duties that will surely be encountered in one’s lifetime. The fraternity prides itself on basic life principles that lead to success.

The Beta Omicron chapter was established at Youngstown State University in March of 1953. After a leave of absence in the 90s, the fraternity returned to the YSU campus in 2004.

The Youngstown Alumni Club of Alpha Phi Delta was very instrumental in the return of APD. This will be the club’s 68th year in existence. Since the return of the fraternity, Beta Omicron has represented themselves, their alumni, and the University with great pride and respect.

This year, Alpha Phi Delta is celebrating its seventeenthyear anniversary of its reestablishment at Youngstown State University. In the past, they won first place in the annual homecoming float competition and had two brothers receive an individual award for their service and leadership within the Greek community. Beta Omicron has been successful in philanthropic efforts by sponsoring and running raffles for the Cornea Research Foundation, donating time to gather donations and participate in YSU’s dance marathon, Guinathon, in order to raise money for Akron Children’s Hospital, and by contributing to the Northside Corn Roast to give back to the neighboring community. With seventeen years of being active on campus, the chapter has made many great strides. Members have repeatedly held top leadership roles in the Interfraternity Council as well as Greek Campus Life. APD’s success has continued to grow and its brothers look forward to what lies ahead.

“Joining a Fraternity was never something I thought I would do when coming to YSU. After a year of not being involved on campus I joined Alpha Phi Delta. Joining Greek Life has given me many chances to take on leadership roles both in my chapter and on campus that I never would have thought about taking before. Through participating I have had plenty of opportunities to get involved on campus and to help give back to our community. Through Alpha Phi Delta I have gained Brothers for life, and I can confidently say that this chapter helped me get to where I am at today and has truly changed my life for the better.”

Noah Davies | Senior History Alpha Phi Delta Fraternity

Chapter Nickname APD

Date Founded November 5, 1914

Date Chartered at YSU Originally, March 1, 1953 Rechartered March 27, 2004

Minimum GPA 2.55 (High School or College)

Colors Purple and White

Values Temperance, Fortitude, Justice, and Prudence

Motto Faciamus - “We Do”

Flower White Carnation

Symbols Crest

Philanthropy Multiple Sclerosis Society of America, Cornea Research Foundation

Service 258 hours, $4,686 raised

Awards & Honors Man of the Year, IFC Delegate of the Year First Place Homecoming Float Competition 2016 Kessler Award/Outstanding Philanthropy

Notable Members Frank Sinatra, Vincent D’Onofrio, Ray Mancini, Sal Vulcano

16

INTERFRATERNITY COUNCIL

SIGMA ALPHA EPSILON OHIO ALPHA

ΣΑΕ 17

SIGMA ALPHA EPSILON (SAE) was founded on March 9, 1856 in Tuscaloosa, AL. The founders were eight young men including Noble Leslie Devotie. The Fraternity faced many struggles over the American Civil War and almost dissolved nearly twice before the 20th century. After expansion to the Northern part of the country, the fraternity grew to what it is today. With 350,000 lifetime members, SAE has more nationwide members than any other national fraternity to date.

Sigma Alpha Epsilon established its national headquarters in Evanston, IL in 1930. This was the site of the first collegiate national leadership school; a program designed to foster the physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual needs of the undergraduate members. Today, there are nearly 220 chapters of SAE across the United States.

The Ohio Alpha chapter of SAE was chartered at Youngstown University in 1959, making them the oldest social fraternity at YSU. The men of this organization have consistently participated in social, campus, alumni, and community activities. This past year, the brothers of Sigma Alpha Epsilon have participated in many IFC and GCL sponsored events such as Intramural Sports, Homecoming, Greek Week, and Greek Sing. SAE has also sponsored several philanthropy events throughout the year to raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network, the Boy Scouts of America, and many others.

Chapter Nickname SAE

Date Founded March 9, 1856

Date Chartered at YSU December 5, 1959

Minimum GPA 2.75 (High School or College)

Colors Royal Purple and Old Gold

Values Loyalty, Friendship, Honor, and Scholarship

Motto The True Gentlemen

“I joined Sigma Alpha Epsilon to band together with a group of like-minded gentlemen who seek to make the most of their college experience and make a difference in the community. The brotherhood we share is something that cannot be found anywhere else, and I believe that it is the basis for our efforts to give back to the community through our service and philanthropy events. Being able to come together and put-on large-scale events that benefit the Akron Children’s Hospital, and having fun doing it is an incredible and unique experience that I am so thankful to be able to participate in. In my time in Sigma Alpha Epsilon, I have also learned about and gained access to so many new resources that I can use to benefit my academic achievements and leadership abilities. Overall, I don’t think my first year at college could have been any better if I had not joined!”

Ronnie Shirilla | Sophomore Electrical Engineering Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity

Flower Violet

Symbols The Lion

Philanthropy Children’s Miracle Network

Philanthropy 1959 hours, $26,295 raised

Awards & Honors 2016-17 Orion Award (for outstanding YSU student organization)

Notable Members President William McKinley, David Spade, T. Boone Pickens, Troy Aikmen

18

INTERFRATERNITY COUNCIL

SIGMA CHI ETA CHI

19

ΣΧ

SIGMA CHI fraternity was founded on June 28, 1855 at Miami University, in Oxford, Ohio by seven men. Six of these men were brothers of another fraternity. They felt what they stood for was imperfectly realized in that organization. Based on the ideals of friendship, justice and learning, these men formed the Fraternal Order of Sigma Chi. Sigma Chi has inducted over 300,000 members. There are 235 active chapters across the United States and Canada.

Additionally, Sigma Chi has over 117 alumni chapters, in addition to alumni groups in professions such as law and medicine, among many others.

Annually, Sigma Chi holds the world’s largest leadership workshop called the Krach Transformational Leaders Workshop.

Sigma Chi strives to be the world’s premier leadership development organization. In fact, in 2005, the United States Congress passed a resolution congratulating Sigma Chi on its 150th anniversary and wishing the fraternity well in their future as a well-respected and cherished organization.

Sigma Chi has a plethora of famous alumni, from David Letterman to John Wayne and many others in between, but takes pride in saying that all brothers are important members who uphold a strict standard to be men of good character and well-respected on both local campuses and internationally.

The local chapter, Eta Chi, was founded on April 16, 1977.

This spring, they celebrated their 44th anniversary of chartering at Youngstown State University. They have continued to advance philanthropic efforts by holding “Derby Days”, their annual philanthropy week which aims to raise both awareness and funding for cancer research for their national philanthropic partner, the Huntsman Cancer Foundation, founded by one of Sigma Chi’s most noteworthy alumni, Jon M. Huntsman. Each March they host “Roquacade”, an evening of local musical talent which raises money for Huntsman. In 2017, the chapter had the distinct honor of being awarded the Peterson Significant Chapter Award, the fraternity’s highest honor, for only the sixth time in their chapter’s history.

“When I came to YSU I was an incoming freshman at a time when it was nearly impossible to get out there and make friends or even just really talk to people.

Originally that’s the main reason I decided to even consider joining a fraternity. I reached out and immediately got along well with the brothers of Sigma Chi. This led to leadership opportunities, and I have already been elected to serve on the executive committee. I look forward to growing closer and helping build our fraternity!”

Alexander Papa | Sophomore History Sigma Chi Fraternity

Chapter Nickname Sigs

Date Founded June 28, 1855

Date Chartered at YSU April 16, 1977

Minimum GPA 2.75 (High School or College)

Colors Blue and Old Gold

Values Friendship, Justice, and Learning

Motto In Hoc Signo Vinces “In This Sign You Shall Conquer”

Flower White Rose

Symbols White Cross

Philanthropy Huntsman Cancer Foundation

Service Over 200 hours $1,335 raised

Awards and Honors Peterson Significant Chapter Award Winner (1977-78, 1984-85,1985-86, 1998-99, 2012-13, 2015-16)

Notable Members Drew Brees, Brad Pitt, Luke Bryan, President Grover Cleveland, David Letterman, Urban Meyer

20

INTERFRATERNITY COUNCIL

SIGMA TAU GAMMA BETA GAMMA

ΣΤΓ 21

SIGMA TAU GAMMA fraternity was founded at the University of Central Missouri in 1920 by seventeen educators and veterans of the first World War. As the fraternity’s official website states, these men “…were veterans who had met death face to face. Even so, they did not stare death down, for that is impossible. Rather, they fully realized the essence of a life worth living, a life that manifests itself in caring, one for the other.” This year, Sigma Tau Gamma’s Beta Gamma Chapter is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its installation at Youngstown State University.

Sigma Tau Gamma maintains six fundamental principles: learning, integrity, excellence, leadership, citizenship, and brotherhood. These principles are more than just words, but rather guides by which the fraternity’s brothers lead their lives. The fraternity’s national philanthropy is the Special Olympics, an organization for which Beta Gamma frequently fundraises. As an example, YSU’s brothers of Sigma Tau Gamma participate yearly in the Polar Plunge at Mosquito Lake, in order to raise money for the Special Olympics.

The brothers of Sigma Tau Gamma, beyond philanthropic endeavors, are dedicated to academic excellence. Since returning to campus at YSU, Beta Gamma Chapter has achieved the highest or second highest average GPA of the University’s fraternities for over 19 years.

Today, these brothers strive for superior performance just as their forebears did – these accomplishments, among others, prove that the Beta Gamma Chapter works tirelessly to transform the fraternity’s six principles from abstract ideality to tangible reality.

Chapter Nickname Sig Tau

Date Founded June 28, 1920

Date Chartered at YSU Originally, 1959 Rechartered April 7, 2001

Minimum GPA 2.5 (High School or College)

Colors Azure and White

Values Learning, Integrity, Excellence, Leadership, Citizenship, and Brotherhood

Motto “Building Generations of Noblemen”

Flower “Being in a fraternity at YSU has definitely given me a greater purpose and overall drive to be the best man and friend that I can be. Prior to joining Sig Tau, I had a nice college experience, but it definitely felt like I was going at it alone. The only person holding me accountable was me and that made getting motivated difficult. Upon joining a fraternity, I acquired this new drive to be even better than I was prior, and it altered my trajectory for my college career. Early on, I just wanted to represent my chapter well and make my brothers as proud of me as I was of them.

Now, I am driven to integrate myself as deeply into our campus culture as a positive representative of my chapter and Greek Life as a whole. Without Sig Tau and our Greek Community, I would be an average college student who went to classes, studied, and went home. With my chapter, my college experience has become so much more, and I couldn’t be happier.”

Clay Miller | Senior High School Math Education Sigma Tau Gamma Fraternity

White Rose

Symbols Coat of Arms, Crest

Philanthropy Special Olympics

Service 317 Hours, $1,142 Raised

Awards & Honors Nationally, the Beta Gamma chapter was honored with one of three McCune Distinguished Chapter awards, the highest award a chapter in Sigma Tau Gamma can receive.

Notable Members Jack Link, O. Glen Hocker, Robert Libby, Mel Hancock, James Kirkpatrick, Stan Musial, Brad Ellsworth

22

INTERFRATERNITY COUNCIL

THETA CHI EPSILON DELTA

23

ΘΧ

THETA CHI (OX) was founded on April 10, 1856, at Norwich University, by two military cadets: Frederick Norton Freeman and Arthur Chase. Believing in the idea that two men can do greater than one, these two cadets founded what is now a military based fraternity. Theta Chi aims to provide its members with an enjoyable and fulfilling collegiate experience that also prepares them for rewarding, successful lives after graduation.

Theta Chi has installed 244 Chapters since 1856, with a current active 162 chapters still up and running today across the United States. Internationally, the fraternity has approximately 8,700 undergraduate members, inducting over 191,000 members throughout the years.

The members of Theta Chi aspire to and are expected to live by high moral values, including having regard for all people as being worthy of respect. Brothers believe in true friendship; they extend an “Assisting Hand” to one another, and they seek to exact harmony. They stand for the primacy of Alma Mater, the promotion of knowledge and advancement of culture. Theta Chi strives to create the “Resolute Man”, which is the overall ideal, well rounded man. They believe in the virtues of truth, temperance, tolerance and seek the mutual benefit and improvement of all members and strive to serve their country and their fellow man.

The local chapter, Epsilon Delta was brought back to campus on March 17, 2018, after a year of hard work and dedication. Theta Chi at YSU prides itself on raising funds for the United Services Organization (USO) by holding numerous fundraisers throughout the semester. The chapter works dilligently to make a positive impact on the campus, its members, and the local community. Theta Chi aspires to achieve many more great things in the future as a newly reinstalled chapter.

Chapter Nickname OX

Date Founded April 10, 1856

Date Chartered at YSU Originally, May 12, 1956 Rechartered March 17, 2018

Minimum GPA GPA 2.7 (High School or College)

Colors Military Red and White

Values Truth, Temperance, Tolerance

Motto An “Assisting Hand”

Flower Red Carnation

“Greek Life has given me and so many others the opportunity to grow as a leader. The ability to hold positions in Chapter, to organize events on campus, and to be a part of an organization with major goals has played a huge role in developing myself as a person and as a leader. Before joining, I never thought I’d be able to be President of a Chapter or be a part of the wonderful things Greek Life has to offer. I cannot express how thankful I am to be a part of the Greek Community and Theta Chi Fraternity.”

Jake Clark | Senior Marketing Management Theta Chi Fraternity

Symbols Rattlesnake

Philanthropy United Services Organization

Service Locally, the chapter raised $1466 for the USO while completing 400 hours of service.

Notable Members Steven Spielberg, Lee Iacocca, Rob Corddry, Alan K. “Al” Saunders, J. William Grimes, William K. Howell

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NATIONAL PAN-HELLENIC COUNCIL “Joining Greek Life at YSU has been amazing thus far! I have received so much love from my Sorors and the campus as a whole.

As a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, I have the honor of having sisters for a lifetime and participating in events I had no idea occurred on campus. Going Greek has been a very exciting part of my college experience.”

Avery Calloway | Senior General Studies: Psychology / Education Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

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WHAT IS NPHC? The National Pan-Hellenic Council, Inc. (NPHC) is the umbrella organization for the nine historically black, international Greek lettered fraternities and sororities.

The council promotes interaction through forums, meetings, and other mediums for the exchange of information and engages in cooperative programming and initiatives through various activities and functions.

HISTORY OF NPHC On May 10, 1930, on the campus of Howard University in Washington D.C., The National Pan-Hellenic Council was formed.

The stated purpose and mission of the NPHC is: “Unanimity of thought and action as far as possible in the conduct of Greek letter collegiate fraternities and sororities, and to consider problems of mutual interest to its member organizations.”

ACADEMIC AND MEMBERSHIP REQUIRMENTS Undergraduate students who wish to join an NPHC organization must meet specific membership qualifications. These standards include academic achievement (2.5 GPA or higher depending upon the organization, must be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours, and at least 12 hours of completed coursework or more), community service, good character, and involvement on campus.

Organizations will host interest meetings and informationals throughout the year for students interested in joining the organization. Each individual organization’s National Headquarters sets the guidelines for when and how often a chapter can participate in the membership intake process.

NPHC membership is a lifelong commitment.

Membership continues after college and into the alumnae chapters. Therefore, decisions should be made very carefully and informed.

WHY SHOULD I JOIN NPHC? You should join an NPHC organization if you are interested in a historically significant organization dedicated to serving their community and continuing education. These organizations each have something that makes them special and it is up to each person to find which one fits them best. Joining an NPHC represented organization is joining a brotherhood/ sisterhood for life and is a lifetime commitment to serving the surrounding communities.

THE ROAD TO NPHC: KNOW WHO WE ARE. Be comfortable with yourself.

NPHC membership is a lifelong commitment; you must know who you are before you devote yourself to an NPHC organization.

DO YOUR RESEARCH. Learn about ALL the organizations within NPHC (visit National websites).

Suggested Reading:

- Divine 9 by Lawrence Ross - Black Greek 101 by Walter Kimbrough - African American Fraternities and Sororities: The Legacy and Division by Gregory S. Parks

ATTEND PROGRAMS, especially those hosted by NPHC, but attend Chapter sponsored programs for all NPHC Chapters! Get to know the NPHC, while they get to know you! Do not hesitate to engage in conversation with them. Attend seminars, informational programs, meet & greets, community service, academic and social events.

At these programs, you will learn more about individual organizations and chapters.

- Attend Black Greek 101, this is a great way to learn about the NPHC community at YSU. This is a place to ask questions about general membership!

- Attend a Step Show.

TAKE NOTES at programs, especially Black Greek 101.

UNDERSTAND that each Chapter holds a membership process on their own timeline and not all Chapters take new members in any given academic year. Also know that each National Organization has slightly different requirements for potential new members and do not take first-semester students who have not earned credit hours.

ASK QUESTIONS, we want you to ask real questions!

BE ATTENTIVE, demonstrate your interest with your actions.

Every NPHC Organization believes in developing leaders.

START YOUR LEADERSHIP SKILLS EARLY and get involved in other campus organizations. NPHC organizations cannot offer membership to first-semester, first-time students. Our organizations are looking for students who can demonstrate their ability to balance academics with involvement. Get involved in things that matter to you and help you develop your leadership skills.

GET TO KNOW NPHC, while they get to know you! Do not hesitate to engage in conversation with them!

EXPRESS INTEREST – with respect!

- Once you have decided which organization is for you, it is best to speak directly with a current chapter member of the respective organization. This will be discussed in depth during Black Greek 101.

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NATIONAL PAN-HELLENIC COUNCIL

ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA DELTA DELTA

27

AKA

ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INCORPORATED is an international service organization of women whose mission is to cultivate and encourage high scholastic and ethical standards, to promote unity and friendship among college women, to study and help alleviate problems concerning girls and women in order to improve their social stature, to maintain a progressive interest in college life, and to be of “Service to All Mankind.”

The sorority was founded on the campus of Howard University in Washington, D.C. on January 15, 1908 as the first female Greek-lettered organization by African American women. Alpha Kappa Alpha has 300,000 members in the graduate and undergraduate chapters that are located in the United States, Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada, Dubai, Germany, Japan, Johannesburg, Liberia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

On May 8, 1953, Youngstown State University had its first African American sorority chartered on campus, the Delta Delta chapter. The chapter’s signature event is the Holly Jolly Christmas Party, which is held for children ages 3-12. This event allows the community to see these young ladies in service.

Children from the greater Youngstown area enjoy pictures, and celebrate the holiday season with lots of laughs and love.

The sisters of Delta Delta recently reactivated the chapter in the Fall of 2019. They have volunteered service including, but not limited to, making pillowcase dresses to send to children in Haiti, hosting financial advice programs for college students, and giving awareness to Youngstown East students on how to apply to college and for scholarships. The chapter hopes to continue in the future with some of the programs that were hosted previously such as assisting and stacking deliveries at the Gleaners Community Food Bank, partner with Alzheimer’s Association creating awareness on campus about the disease, and service projects on MLK Day of Service.

Date Founded January 15, 1908

Date Chartered at YSU May 8, 1953

Minimum GPA 2.5 GPA, full-time status (12 hours or more) Completed minimum of 12 hours (fall or spring semester)

Colors Salmon Pink and Apple Green

Values Scholastic and Ethical Standards, Friendship, Social Stature and be of “Service to All Mankind”

Motto “By Culture and by Merit”

Flower Pink Tea Rose

Symbols Ivy Leaf

“Joining Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated has been a life changing experience for me. It has continued to mold me into a better individual from the day I was initiated. It has helped me flourish and gain lifelong friendships. I am always motivated and encouraged to lead and never give up. My leadership skills and knowledge will continue with me all throughout life. I joined this sorority because it has very high morals and standards. Also, I wanted to network and grow connections with other women who are in the profession I soon hope to be in.

I wanted to be a part of an organization who wanted to make changes to our community and world to positively impact the lives of others. The community service activities we do to service all mankind are amazing. I now have a relationship with women who hold very good jobs and positions in our world. Some are doctors, social workers, instructors, and above all the Vice President of the U.S. is a member of this sorority.”

Jay’Lynne Armour | Senior Nursing Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Philanthropy Alzeimer’s Association, Gleaners Community Food Bank

Service Sent pillowcase dresses to children in Haiti, hosted financial advice and college preparedness programs

Awards Exemplary Chapter Award, Standing Tall Among Regions Award for Standards, Educational Advancement Award

Notable Members Phylicia Rashad, Maya Angelou, Loretta Devine, Alicia Keys, Jada Pinkett-Smith, Brandy, Rosa Parks, Coretta Scott King

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NATIONAL PAN-HELLENIC COUNCIL

DELTA SIGMA THETA ZETA GAMMA

ΔΣΘ 29

DELTA SIGMA THETA SORORITY, INCORPORATED is an international organization of women dedicated to providing sisterhood, scholarship and public service within hundreds of communities. It was founded in 1913 on the campus of Howard University by 22 courageous women. At the core of their commitment is the continued development of new members to share in their values and social action driven agenda.

The sorority develops strong bonds between its members while promoting sisterly love between sisters, chapters, regions, and associations. The major programs of the sorority are based upon the organization’s Five Point Programmatic Thrust. These include Economic Development, Educational Development, International Awareness and Involvement, Physical and Mental Health, and Political Awareness and Involvement.

More than ten thousand members typically attend Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated’s biennial national conventions, and each of the seven regional conferences (held during years when there is no national convention) typically hosts thousands of members. At its recent national convention held in the District of Columbia, more than 38,000 members registered and attended.

The Youngstown Alumnae Chapter has volunteered for thousands of public service hours and has raised money for the American Heart Association, 300 Sisters in Red, Adopt a School Programs, such as Williamson and Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary in Youngstown, and has also awarded thousands of dollars in scholarships for high school students.

Additionally, the Youngstown Alumnae chapter has been recognized by the NAACP, the Urban League, the National Council of Negro Women, and locally, the Junior Civic League.

Date Founded January 13, 1913

Date Chartered at YSU February 17, 1968

Minimum GPA 2.75 GPA, full-time status (12 hours or more) Completed a minimum of 24 hours

Colors Crimson and Cream

Values Scholarship, Sisterhood & Community Service

Motto “Intelligence is the Torch of Wisdom”

Flower Violet

Symbol Fortitude

Philanthropy “Marianna Williamson once stated, ‘as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.’ This is what Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. has done for me. They introduced me to not only a lifetime of sisterhood but essential qualities that I will carry with me throughout my life.

They strive to ensure each person is putting their best effort into everything they do. They are committed to helping the community and making positive change where it is possible, while also placing great emphasis on education. Others have benefited from these key fundamentals not only physically but spiritually and mentally as well.”

Shantell Jenkins | Senior Criminal Justice Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Economic Development, Educational Development, International Awareness and Involvement, Physical and Mental Health, and Political Awareness and Involvement

Service American Heart Association, 300 Sisters in Red, Adopt a School Programs, and awarded thousands of dollars in scholarships for high school students

Awards and Honors Recognized by the NAACP, the Urban League, the National Council of Negro Women, the Junior Civic League

Notable Members Shirley Chisholm, Roberta Flack, Cicely Tyson, and Aretha Franklin

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PANHELLENIC COUNCIL PANHELLENIC CREED We, as undergraduate members of women’s fraternities, stand for good scholarship, for guarding of good health, for maintenance of fine standards, and for serving, to the best of our ability, our college community. Cooperation for further fraternity life, in harmony with its best possibilities, is the ideal that shall guide our fraternity activities.

We, as fraternity women, stand for service through the development of character inspired by the close contact and deep friendship of individual fraternity and Panhellenic life. The opportunity for wide and wise human service, through mutual respect and helpfulness, is the tenet by which we strive to live.

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“When I came to Youngstown State University, I knew I wanted to get involved. Joining a sorority at YSU gave me an opportunity to get involved on campus and give back to the community while also growing as a leader. Through the Panhellenic Council, I have found an amazing community of women who all support one another regardless of the organization they are a part of.

We support our shared philanthropy, our other chapters, and the community as a whole.”

Abbey Cochran | Senior HR Management Panhellenic Council President

NATIONAL PANHELLENIC CONFERENCE National Panhellenic Conference (NPC), founded in 1902, is the umbrella organization for 26 national and international women’s fraternities and sororities.

Members are represented on more than 670 college campuses in the United States and Canada, and in more than 3,700 alumnae associations. Established NPC chapters and alumnae associations are composed of more than five million women worldwide.

The National Panhellenic Conference’s mission is to support its women’s fraternities, commonly known as sororities, by promoting values, education, leadership, friendship, cooperation, and citizenship. NPC supports its Collegiate Panhellenic chapters in all endeavors.

When a student joins one of the four NPC sororities at Youngstown State, she also becomes a member of the Panhellenic Association. The Panhellenic Association and its sororities are led by YSU’s Panhellenic Council (PHC), which is the governing body for the four chartered Panhellenic sororities at YSU. PANHELLENIC EXECUTIVE BOARD The Council is made up of five officers and one delegate and alternate from each of the four chapters.

Through a committee structure, the Panhellenic Council is able to effectively organize and assist in events of mutual concern to all sorority women. Panhellenic helps support events such as community service projects, academic initiatives, and formal sorority recruitment.

Panhellenic Council is an excellent way for the women of Youngstown State’s NPC sororities to get involved not just in their individual chapters, but in the entire community. Delegates are the voting members of their chapters on all community-wide issues and elected officers are able to provide leadership for the community.

PHILANTHROPY - CIRCLE OF SISTERHOOD (COS) Circle of Sisterhood is the Panhellenic Council’s chosen philanthropy. It is a non-profit organization founded and powered by sorority women on a mission to raise financial resources to help remove education barriers for girls and women facing poverty and oppression.

COS supports women and girls in 24 countries and on four continents. It only costs $53 to send a girl to school for a year with everything she needs to be successful, such as a uniform, supplies, tuition, and lunch every day!

POTENTIAL NEW MEMBER’S BILL OF RIGHTS 1. The right to be treated as an individual 2. The right to be fully informed about the recruitment process 3. The right to ask questions and receive true and objective answers from recruitment counselors and members 4. The right to be treated with respect 5. The right to be treated as a capable and mature person without being patronized 6. The right to ask how and why and receive straight answers 7. The right to have and express opinions to recruitment counselors 8. The right to have inviolable confidentiality when sharing information with recruitment counselors 9. The right to make informed choices without undue pressure from others 10. The right to be fully informed about the NPC Unanimous Agreements implicit in the membership recruitment acceptance binding agreement (MRABA) signing process 11. The right to make one’s own choice and decision and accept full responsibility for the results of that decision 12. The right to have a positive, safe, and enriching recruitment and new member experience RECRUITMENT COUNSELORS Some of the first people women get to know during recruitment are the recruitment counselors. These women have been nominated by their chapter and selected by the Panhellenic Executive Board. They are chosen for their ability to relate to people, positive attitudes, knowledge of the Greek system, and capability to help potential new members have a positive recruitment experience. Any questions women have about Greek Life can be answered by them because they have been extensively trained.

Recruitment Counselors will have no contact with their own chapters during formal recruitment and will be disaffiliated the first few weeks of fall semester. Potential new members can count on them to keep all of their questions and concerns confidential. Look to them as a shoulder to lean on. Since they went through recruitment as well, they understand that the decision to choose a chapter is a difficult one and they want to help.

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PANHELLENIC COUNCIL

ALPHA OMICRON PI PHI LAMBDA

33

AΟΠ

ALPHA OMICRON PI (AOII) was founded on January 2, 1897, by four women seeking the lifelong bonds of fraternal love and friendship at Barnard College of Columbia University in New York, New York. Over the next 120 years, AOII has added over 190 collegiate chapters and initiated over 155,000 active members.

AOII has only one color, cardinal. Its jewel is the ruby, the flower is the Jacqueminot Rose, and the panda is the official mascot. Alpha Omicron Pi’s international philanthropy is Arthritis Research and the Arthritis Foundation.

Begun as a local sorority called Phi Lambda Delta in 1927, the Phi Lambda Chapter at Youngstown State University became AOII’s 72nd chapter when it installed 17 members.

In its early days, Phi Lambda participated in activities such as building prize-winning floats; the election of Homecoming, prom and Mardi Gras Queens; and Greek Sing. When Youngstown experienced an economic depression during the early 1980s, the university’s enrollment declined and students could not afford the expenses of Greek letter organizations.

The chapter’s charter was placed in trust in 1982. Phi Lambda was re-installed on December 10, 2011. The chapter has been extremely active in the local community. They have sponsored campus-wide service projects including Sisters for Soldiers, Run Out Arthritis 5K, and a “Strike Out Arthritis” Bowling Event.

“I originally wanted to join a sorority because I moved from out of state and wanted to find my home away from home. This was important because I was moving to a new place where I knew absolutely no one. It was their sisterhood that really brought me in.

The support in AOII is never ending and we always push each other to be the best versions of ourselves. We also love reaching out to help with the Arthritis Foundation or Sisters for Soldiers. It is unbelievably outstanding what we can do to make a difference and impact people. Even in a pandemic, we haven’t stopped and have been doing whatever we could to help others. Alpha Omicron Pi has also given me the chance to lead. I can lead through action and help the sorority that has given me my home away from home. I could never give enough thanks for the young women of Alpha Omicron Pi that have developed me into the person I am today.”

Chadelynn Johnson | Junior Kinesiology and Sports Science Alpha Omicron Pi Sorority

Chapter Nickname AOII

Date Founded January 2, 1897

Date Chartered at YSU Orignally, September 28, 1957 Rechartered December 10, 2011

Minimum GPA 2.7 (High School or College)

Colors Cardinal

Values At all times standing for Character, Dignity, Scholarship and College Loyalty

Motto “Inspire Ambition”

Flower Jacqueminot Rose

Philanthropy Arthritis Foundation

Service Dollars donated to the Arthritis Foundation support arthritis research, Juvenile Arthritis Power Packs, Juvenile Arthritis Camps and Conferences, and so much more. Sisters for Soldiers collects money and non-perishable food items for hundreds of men and women fighting overseas for the United States.

Awards and Honors Phi Lambda has been recognized as a Ruby Level chapter for the past eight years and was the 2020 YSU Sorority of the Year

Notable Members Heather Whitestone (former Miss America) and Courtney Kupets (double Olympic medalist and world champion gymnast)

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PANHELLENIC COUNCIL

ALPHA XI DELTA THETA UPSILON

35

AΞΔ

ALPHA XI DELTA was founded on April 17, 1893, by 10 women at Lombard College in Galesburg, Illinois. Their shared vision and dream of a national organization dedicated to the personal growth of women became Alpha Xi Delta, one of the oldest women’s fraternities in the United States. The timeless ideals envisioned by Alpha Xi Delta’s founders remained constant throughout the years, inspiring the drive in each member to pursue individual excellence. The sorority is proud of its rich history and lasting impact on its members and the Panhellenic community.

Alpha Xi Delta’s founders left a great legacy. They taught the value of education because it inspires sisters to achieve their goals and gives them the power to be whatever they choose. They taught sisters to support one another through shared experience and understanding. They taught members to serve others and reach out to better the lives of those less fortunate. Because of these founders, the national sorority continues to inspire countless bold and talented women to realize their potential.

Alpha Xi Delta enriches the lives of women throughout the world by emphasizing the ideals which are instilled within the fraternity: sisterhood, leadership, knowledge, and service to the community. The Theta Upsilon chapter of Alpha Xi Delta was founded at Youngstown State University on April 13, 1996.

Throughout its time, women in the chapter have strived for excellence in all areas of the four ideals and to realize their potential.

Theta Upsilon continues to showcase their founding ideals through the chapter’s colors of double blue and gold; light blue for friendship, dark blue for integrity, and gold for philanthropy, as well as its flower, the pink killarney rose, for leadership.

“Becoming a sister of Alpha Xi Delta Sorority has been one of my most important and impactful decisions I’ve ever made. Not only did I find amazing friends who are now my sisters, but an entire support system that is dedicated to help me succeed and grow into the woman I’ve become today and still push me to improve. Through pushing me academically, introducing me to philanthropic opportunities and ways to be involved in the Youngstown community, and showing me that I could be a part of something larger than myself has been such an amazing experience. Even in my first year I’ve managed to gain four leadership positions and become New Member Class President which has been a huge honor. I could not imagine my college experience without Greek Life now that I know how many amazing friends and opportunities it would provide me with.”

Zoe Guzmán | Freshman Social Work Alpha Xi Delta Sorority

Chapter Nickname AXiD (pronounced “A-Zee-D”)

Date Founded April 17, 1893

Date Chartered at YSU April 13, 1996

Minimum GPA 2.5 (College) 2.75 (High School)

Colors Double Blue and Gold (light blue, dark blue, and gold)

Values Knowledge, Leadership, Service, and Sisterhood

Motto “The Pen is Mightier than the Sword”

Flower Pink Killarney Rose

Symbols The Quill, BetXI Bear

Philanthropy Kindly Hearts Campaign

Service The past five years the chapter has raised $37,900 for Autism Speaks

Notable Members Betsey Johnson (designer) Carolyn Rafaelian (founder of Alex and Ani bracelets) Carol Abersold (author of Elf on the Shelf)

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PANHELLENIC COUNCIL

DELTA ZETA KAPPA CHI

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ΔΖ

DELTA ZETA (DZ) sorority was founded in 1902 at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. The sisters of the Kappa Chi chapter celebrated 51 years of high honors and philanthropy achievements at Youngstown State University this October.

Delta Zeta/Kappa Chi hosts their annual benefit concert, Hits for Hearing, featuring local bands to promote the importance of hearing and speech. The proceeds made that week benefit their national philanthropy and are sent to the Starkey Hearing Foundation. Additionally, sisters may volunteer at Paul Newman’s The Painted Turtle Camp in Lake Hughes, California. The Painted Turtle Camp provides an authentic camp experience to children with serious medical conditions completely free of charge.

Today, Delta Zeta has enriched the lives of over 260,000 members in the United States and Canada, and has 170 collegiate chapters. Members of Delta Zeta have high esteem, seek high scholarship, promote cultural interests and participate in many campus activities and organizations.

Members also experience group interaction, provide numerous services to others, establish life-long friendships and continually strive to improve themselves. The Delta Zeta Foundation, a nonprofit organization, makes possible gifts and support for scholarships, leadership, philanthropy, and education that continue to enrich DZ members and enable them to enrich the lives of those in need.

Delta Zeta members share a common purpose: to make life fuller, more meaningful, more rewarding. They promise friendship, personal development, and opportunity. As valued citizens they are committed to making a difference and giving graciously by promoting their values of Friendship, Curiosity, Generosity, Citizenship, Empowerment, and Belonging to the campus and beyond.

Delta Zeta values have fostered tremendous personal advancement to their sisters. Their members hold a variety of leadership roles in other organizations at YSU and within the chapter. They desire personal growth while shaping themselves for career success.

Chapter Nickname DZ

Date Founded October 24, 1902

Date Chartered at YSU October 10, 1970

Minimum GPA 2.7 (High School or College)

Colors Rose and Green

Values Friendship, Curiosity, Generosity, Empowerment, Citizenship, Belonging

Flower Pink Killarney Rose

Symbols The Roman Lamp, Diamond, & Turtle

Philanthropy “I joined a sorority because I wanted to become involved on campus and make new friends! I wanted to find friends who would support me throughout my college years. Through the everlasting sisterhood of Delta Zeta, I have found my forever friends.”

Katrina Hayes | Senior Spanish & International Business Delta Zeta Sorority

Hearing and Speech

Service The Painted Turtle Camp

Awards & Honors 2017-2018 Constellation Award (for Outstanding University-Wide Program) recognizing Hits for Hearing, 2019 and 2020 Top Academic Sorority

Notable Members Florence Henderson, Joy Behar, Mercedes Bates “Betty Crocker”

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PANHELLENIC COUNCIL

ZETA TAU ALPHA ZETA GAMMA

39

ΖΤΑ

ZETA TAU ALPHA was founded on October 15, 1898, by a group of nine women in Farmville, Virginia that banded together with common ideals of friendship, laughter, and sisterhood. The purpose of Zeta Tau Alpha is to intensify leadership, promote happiness among its members, and to build up a nobler and purer womanhood in the world. The sisterhood of Zeta Tau Alpha has grown to include 173 chapters with over 257,000 sisters nationwide, who share the same dreams as the founders’ original ideals.

The Zeta Gamma chapter of Zeta Tau Alpha strives for greatness and is committed to providing the best experience possible for its members. These women have consistently been recognized on both local and national levels for their effort on campus and in the greater Youngstown community.

This past year the chapter was awarded the highest honor one can receive nationally, based on standards of character, personal conduct, social competence, and cultural attainment, developed through programs that benefit the chapter and its members. Zeta Tau Alpha’s programming provides our young women the opportunity to form friendships, excel academically, sustain wellbeing, and enjoy sisterhood throughout and beyond their college years.

Zeta Gamma is committed to enriching the lives of its members through innovative programming with an emphasis on service. Our largest event, The Pink Ribbon Cheer Classic is a cheerleading and dance exhibition dedicated to those who fought and are still fighting the battle against breast cancer.

Since 2001 over 1 million dollars has been donated to the cause through this event. Other service projects that the chapter participated in this year included ZTA Bingo, Charity Miles, making dog toys for local animal shelters, sending cards to local nursing homes, and participating in Guinathon.

Chapter Nickname Zeta, ZTA

Date Founded October 15, 1898

Date Chartered at YSU October 3, 1964

Minimum GPA 2.7 (High School or College)

Colors Turquoise Blue and Steel Gray

Values Friendship, Leadership, Academics, Service

Motto “Seek The Noblest”

Flower White Violet

Symbols Five-pointed Crown & Strawberry

“When joining a sorority, I was expecting to meet women that held the same values and that would be my friends for a lifetime.

My expectations were beyond exceeded.

These women have become my greatest treasures and I will forever cherish the friendships I made in Zeta and within the Greek Community.”

Emma James | Sophomore Early Childhood Education / Early Childhood Intervention Specialist Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority

Philanthropy Breast Cancer Education and Awareness

Service The Pink Ribbon Cheer Classic, Panerathon Against Breast Cancer, Bright Pink, National Football League

Awards & Honors Crown Chapter for High Attainment, Major Donor, Academic Excellence, Kessler Award/ Outstanding Philanthropy, Sorority of the Year, Ohio Zeta Day Fundraising Award Orion Award (Outstanding YSU Student Organization), Alpha-Omega Award (YSU Greek Membership Programming)

Notable Members Erin Andrews (NFL reporter), Betty Nguyen (news reporter) & Shelley Meyer (OSU football First Lady)

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GREEK TERMINOLOGY As you learn more about fraternity and sorority life, you’ll want to get acquainted with these frequently used terms.

Active: A person who has been formally initiated by a chapter.

Alumni: An initiated member who has graduated from college.

Badge: The pin of an initiated member.

Bid: A formal invitation to join a chapter.

Big Brother/Sister: Active member assigned to be the personal mentor for a new member.

Chapter: The local collegiate group of a national fraternity or sorority.

Charter: Documentation that an individual chapter is recognized and operates according to the national organization.

Colony: A newly formed affiliate of a national organization that has not yet received its charter; the organizing members of a colony are often referred to as founders.

Continuous Open Bidding: Process of extending bids on an individual basis that begins immediately following the formal recruitment program.

Crossed: The term NPHC groups use for being initiated.

It means different things to different groups, but generally means crossing over from being a pledge to being a full member.

Financial: Term used to refer to an active member (e.g., someone paying dues).

Formal Sorority Recruitment: A membership recruitment period during which a series of organized rounds are held by each National Panhellenic Conference sorority, organized and implemented by the Panhellenic Council.

Fraternity: A group of men or women who are bound together by rituals, beliefs, and common goals.

Greek 101: A program to educate new members about Greek Life at YSU, responsibilities of being Greek, and current issues facing college students.

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Hand Sign: Used to identify members of the same organization. Most have a deep meaning to that organization or ritualistic symbol.

Initiation: A formal ceremony in which a new member begins full membership.

IFC: Interfraternity Council, the coordinating governing body of fraternities. IFC operates under the affiliation requirements of the North-American Interfraternity Conference (NIC).

Informational: Recruitment event for culturally based groups.

Intake: The process several chapters perform to recruit, interview, choose, and educate new members.

Interest: Title of a potential new member who the group knows is interested. Sometimes these students will band together and form an interest group.

Lavaliere: A pendant with a fraternity or sorority’s Greek letters on it. Sorority members usually receive their chapter’s lavaliere at the time of initiation.

Legacy: Someone whose family member was an affiliate of a particular Greek-letter organization; each organization determines legacies differently, but may include mother/father, sister/brother, aunt/uncle, or grandmother/grandfather.

Line Name: The name given to a pledge class. Some groups do number their lines by Alpha, Beta, Gamma…

But also their line has a name to define them. Many times it is an acronym.

Line: The members of an NPHC Greek organization new member class.

Membership Intake: The term NPHC groups use when they bring new members into their organizations. Each NPHC group determines when they will conduct intake, and thus no two NPHC groups will conduct intake together.

National: The central organization of a fraternity or sorority.

National Panhellenic Conference (NPC): Conference composed of 26 national women’s fraternities; each is autonomous as a general, Greek-letter society of college women, undergraduates, and alumnae.

National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC): Collaborative organization of nine historically African American, international Greek lettered fraternities and sororities.

Neophyte (Neo): A new member in an NPHC organization.

New Member: One who has been accepted as a probationary member of a sorority/fraternity.

New Member Class: A chapter’s group of new members after the recruitment process is complete.

New Member Educator: A liaison between the new member class and the chapter who is responsible for implementing and monitoring the new member program and preparing the new members for initiation.

New Member Presentation (Rollout, Probate): A formal presentation of a new line to campus. It is usually done in a public forum after members have been initiated into an NPHC organization.

Number: The number you are assigned based on the chronological order you are in on your initiation line (often members of other culturally based organizations identify or relate to one another by distinguishing that they are the “same” number).

Panhellenic Council: The coordinating and governing organization for sororities.

Recruitment Counselor: A Panhellenic sorority member who has disaffiliated herself from her chapter during formal membership recruitment. She is specially trained to help potential new members and answer any questions they may have about sorority membership.

Sands: A member of your organization or another culturally based organization that was initiated at the same time you were.

Sorority: A Greek-letter organization for women (may also be called a fraternity).

Stepping: A historically black tradition characterized by synchronized hand foot movements, along with singing, dancing, chanting, and acting. Many Latino/Latina and Multicultural groups participate in stepping as well.

Stroll: A line dance done by members of cultural Greek organizations; usually done at a party or step show.

Total: The allowable chapter size, including both new and initiated members, as determined by the Panhellenic Council.

Yard: A term used by NPHC groups to indicate the campus. Used in phrases such as “which groups are on the yard,” meaning which groups are presently active on campus.

Paraphernalia (Nalia): The different items of Greek clothing or items someone is wearing.

Philanthropy: Fundraisers, projects, events, or donations to raise money for nationally sponsored charitable organizations.

Potential New Member (PNM): A student who is not yet affiliated with a chapter and is interested in becoming a part of the fraternity and sorority community.

Prophyte: Someone who has been a member of the organization for a year or more, or someone who has initiated members (NPHC).

Quota: A specified number of potential new members each chapter may bid during formal recruitment.

Recruitment: A social experience in which mutual choice and selection occurs to determine sorority membership.

GREEK LETTERS A - ALPHA

N - NU

B - BETA

X - XI

G - GAMMA

O - OMICRON

D - DELTA

P - PI

E - EPSILON Z - ZETA

R - RHO

H - ETA

T - TAU

Q - THETA

U - UPSILON

I - IOTA

F - PHI

K - KAPPA L - LAMBDA M - MU

C - CHI Y - PSI

S - SIGMA

Notable Members

W - OMEGA

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WHY SHOULD YOU GO GREEK? “Becoming a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, has helped me to develop into a better young woman. I have gained professional skills that I will carry with me forever. I have also formed numerous friendships with like-minded people. This sorority has encouraged me to focus on my academics and the community around me. The expectations to be an Alpha woman are high, they have allowed me to step into leadership roles and bring our traditions to this campus. I am grateful to be a part of such an impactful organization.”

Kamarri Hall | Junior Early Childhood Education / Intervention Specialist Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. “I joined a sorority because I wanted to be able to help different communities and give back to the people who need help and encouragement. Being in a sorority has impacted me by helping me recognize the true values of being a good student and an even better woman.”

Christian Williams | Senior Early Childhood / Special Education Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

“Being a member of a fraternity has strongly impacted me in many ways. My brothers helped me get involved around campus and pushed me to be an overall better person. Alpha Phi Delta has also helped me by making new friends and has significantly helped improve my academics.”

Justin Bean | Sophomore Exercise Science Alpha Phi Delta Fraternity

“Coming to college, I knew I wanted to get involved, however I was unsure of what I would do to get involved on campus. Shortly after starting my freshman year, I was introduced to Greek Life, and all the amazing opportunities within the Greek Community. I always wanted to be a leader and through holding multiple positions I was able to hone those skills both in chapter and on council. Being able to work with the with my peers every day is something I hold close to my heart. I have never felt so strong in a leadership role as I do with this community backing me.”

Camryn Ealy | Junior Physical Therapy he Greek system at Youngstown State University (YSU) is full of tradition, brotherhood/sisterhood and pride.

Alpha Xi Delta Sorority From participating in Homecoming and Welcome Week events, to playing Intramural Sports, Greeks know how

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to show school spirit at YSU. Our members are proudly represented at YSU athletic events, hold leadership positions in numerous student organizations, and carry out some of the top philanthropy efforts at the University. We are confident you can find a home in one of our organizations and ensure a true Penguin Experience.

YSU Office of Student Activities | www.ysu.edu/greeklife Youngstown State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, disability, age, religion or veteran/military status in its programs or activities. Please visit www.ysu.edu/ada-accessibility for contact information for persons designated to handle questions about this policy.

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