Another UIFI experience shared by Elizabeth Tully, Alpha Phi...
The Undergraduate Interfraternity Institute (UIFI) is a five-day fully immersive experience that welcomes hundreds of collegiate fraternity and sorority members from throughout the United States. Held at Indiana University in Bloomington, IN, participants identified practical leadership skills by exploring critical issues in thought-provoking activities. By defining the challenges that our diverse communities face today, personal leadership potential was advanced. Collaboration with peers provided a platform that inspired confidence and success. UIFI fostered a spirit of passion and commitment amongst leaders who pledged to ensure and promote a positive fraternity and sorority relationship. UIFI commenced with initial dynamic teambuilding activities that resulted in lasting trust and friendship. By examining revolutionary leadership and individual identity, values, ethics, and conduct were integrated into everyday decision-making processes and conflict management. The harsh realities of the current state of fraternity and sorority life were held up against the ideal visions that founded our chapters. Through the creation of a UIFI “Blueprint”, participants were able to detail their plans of action that will combat resistance and ignite change. We were instructed by our dedicated and enthusiastic mentors to consider the “why” and root causes of the surrounding issues that plague our entire Greek community. These deep moments of reflection inspired my love for Alpha Phi and the continued prosperity of Lehigh University’s Greek affiliates. My UIFI journey was, at times, truly overwhelming and emotional. I was forced to look in the mirror and hold myself, my chapter and the Lehigh community accountable for its triumphs and failures. UIFI was truly an eye opening and inspiring experience that has motivated me to enact authentic change in my chapter and greater Greek community. I have transformed into a confident and genuine leader that is prepared to challenge the process, lead the way and live out my and Alpha Phi's values each and every day. I am eternally grateful that the Alpha Phi Foundation sponsored my attendance and is committed to enhancing the Greek experience for all of its sisters. Every member of the Greek community should participate in this life-changing institute. It’s not just for four years. It’s for life.
