This summer I had the opportunity to represent the Epsilon
Rho chapter at Kappa Alpha Theta’s Grand Convention in Orlando, Florida. Grand Convention
occurs every other year as a chance for the fraternity to conduct business and
celebrate all that we have accomplished. I was able to experience being a Theta
on a much larger scale by attending leadership workshops and collaborating with
women from across the US and Canada.
My weekend in Orlando was filled with learning and powerful
connections. I am so grateful for the opportunity to learn about the experiences
women have in their own chapters and make new friendships. I left Orlando
inspired by the leading women in my organization. We discussed how joining a
sorority is about belonging, not fitting in. Belonging is being accepted for
you, while fitting in is being accepted for being like everyone else. At Grand
Convention they encouraged us to focus on having members feel like they belong
and are accepted despite their differences.
I am now ready to tackle my role in the Greek community with
a new perspective. Grand Convention reminded me that being in Greek Life is not
always about the events or meetings but the community. As a Panhellenic
community, we support women to become their best selves and encourage them to
make an impact on campus. Serving on Panhellenic Exec this year as the VP Greek
Relations, I hope to bring what I learned at Grand Convention back to the
chapters on campus. It is important to remember and embody our chapter values
to create a space where members can laugh and cry together. Grand Convention
inspired me to cultivate a positive community and remind others why sororities
are an important space for women today.