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|Image= [[File:Epsilon_Kappa.jpg|200px]]
|Founded= {{start date and years ago|1967|02|18}}
|College= [httphttps://www.sc.edu/ University of South Carolina]
|Location= Columbia, SC
|Homepage= [httphttps://wwwsc.usckkgkappa.org/ Epsilon Kappa Homepage]|Media= [httphttps://wiki.kappakappagammakkg.org/index.php?title=Category:Epsilon_Kappa Media related to Epsilon Kappa Chapter]}}
'''2,318 330 initiates (as of June 20172018)'''
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Most of the previous information was excerpted from The History of Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity, 1870-1976. The information that follows has been gleaned from available resources including Chapter History ReportsHAt the University of Tennessee, as the Epsilon Lambda chapter meeting minutes, letters Kappa Kappa Gamma is committed to helping women reach their full potential and aspirations, while never losing sight of its dedication to the community. Kappa offers its members experience ranging from friendship to mentoring, from leadership to service, and comments from chapter campus activities to a lifetime of community involvement. With 180 members and alumnae, the Kappa Kappa Gamma at UT represents a diverse group of women coming together to make a difference, a difference that the entire Knoxville community will never forget. ==Highlights of the 1980s== During the 1980s, Epsilon Kappa was especially involved with GAMMA, otherwise known as Greeks Against Mismanagement of Alcohol, along with the other sororities and fraternities. USC tried to raise awareness about the seriousness of drunk driving and the other effects alcohol can have on students. The chapter co-hosted the annual Tiger Burn, volunteered with the annual Carolina/Clemson blood drive, and fundraised for Camp Chemo and the Ronald McDonald House. Their annual philanthropy event, the Balloon Derby, often raised funds for Carolina Sunshine, an organization that granted wishes to terminally ill children. In the 1980s EK was top in intramurals, second place in Greek Week (1983), and second place in Derby Days. During one Initiation, the chapter was visited by the Fraternity ArchivesPresident, Sally Moore Nitschke, and also by former president Mary Turner Whitney. The Keychapter hosted Province Meeting in 1987. Recruitment numbers grew during the 1980s, and EK’s Panhellenic scholarship ranking was excellent. Each The chapter is expected to update ranked first on campus or first in NM class rankings several semesters. Members from the chapter held offices and membership in and received awards from every organization, sports team, and honorary society on campus. The chapter always did well in “Cockfest” (Homecoming) and Derby Days. In 1985, all eight sororities received halls in one of the women’s dorms. Columbia, SC, celebrated its history record annuallybicentennial in 1986. Contact Fraternity Headquarters at kkghq@kkg In 1987, the chapter lost a new Initiate, Rebecca Allyson Rey, in a car accident.org with questionsThe chapter will always hold this dear sister in their hearts. In September 1989, Hurricane Hugo, tore through Charleston, SC, with 135-mile-an-hour winds. Epsilon Kappa members responded quickly and generously. Their philanthropy project, the annual Balloon Derby, raised $4,000, with $3,000 going to Hugo assistance through the Salvation Army and $1,000 going to the Rose McGill Fund. In addition, for three weeks after the hurricane, members sorted clothes and goods at a collection center. 1989 marked the last year of the Balloon Derby, as the chapter learned that the balloon debris was harmful to local wildlife. Responsibly, they chose to end the much-loved event. ==Highlights of the 1990s== During the 1990s, Epsilon Kappa continued to work hard on academics and participate in organizations, honor societies, and athletics teams across campus. The chapter excelled in recruiting and events like the annual Greek Games. In 1990 and 1991, chapter members won Greek Woman of the Year. In 1994 an EK was Panhellenic President, and another was Mortar Board President. In 1996 an EK was Homecoming Queen, and in 1997 a chapter member was in charge of all of recruitment. The chapter was fortunate to have a traveling consultant and a lounge renovation in 1993. Specific chapter goals were set. The chapter prioritized Fraternity education, including Ritual and history. Philanthropy programming shifted from fundraising to volunteer work. Kappas volunteered together, teamed up with other groups, participated in other organizations’ events, and required each member to complete a set number of individual service hours with an organization(s) of their choosing. Participation in G.A.M.M.A (the alcohol awareness program) continued. The 1996 goal was K.A.P.P.A. P.R.I.D.E. -knowledge, attendance, pride, philanthropy, appreciation, participation, respect, interest, dedication, and enthusiasm. ==Highlights of 2000-2010== Kappa Kickoff was a success along with RIF. We participated in Greek Week, and also won the Party Walk competition. We also participated in various Homecoming festivities with Kappa Alpha, and we placed 2nd in the float building contest. We also participated in several other fraternities' and sororities’ philanthropy projects. Several of our members served as liaisons for Dance Marathon. Lori Miller served as Sorority Council President. We also received the chapter of excellence award, and 2 awards from the Fraternity during the biennial Convention. Our chapter has 118 members, all of whom are extremely active all over campus and the community. Our new pledge class was one of the largest in years, which added more girls from various places all over the country into our sisterhood. A definite challenge EK faced this past year was having good attendance at all the meetings, philanthropy events, etc. The events were made a little more exciting and new activities and practices were implemented during meetings to boost attendance. Financially we struggled and had a hard time getting the house full, but with our new girls they were so anxious to get into the house that now there is a waiting list for next year. During recruitment Katti Bowling assisted us in everything we were struggling in with recruitment, allowing us to gain a great new pledge class. Lori Miller served as Sorority Council President. We also received the chapter of excellence award from Greek Life. This year at USC there were more than 350 degree programs of study, more than 25,000 students, and the university began construction on the new Innovista learning and research facility. It also began tearing down the old freshman dorms (the Honeycombs) to make room for new honors college dorms. Columbia is an extremely diverse city with a growing urban campus area. In 2008, Epsilon Kappa won the House Board Award at Convention. During 2010, The Epsilon Kappa chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma accomplished many things. EK raised over $4700 for the Relay for Life here at USC and also raised $3809 for Dance Marathon benefiting the Children’s Miracle Network. EK was the biggest Greek Life donor at Bark at the Park, where they gave homeless animals the attention and love they deserve. In addition to our successful philanthropies, EK had many successful events including an Alumnae Tea, Formal, and Kappa Rage in the spring and Buffet Bash, Fall Band Party, Backwoods Bash, Tacky Christmas Sweater Party, and Semi------------------Formal in the fall. EK was recognized by Greek Life for Excellence in Scholarship, Excellence in Involvement, and given the Bronze Award for Chapter Achievement. In the fall all of the new members volunteered at A.C. Moore Elementary School at a RIF Parade, and EK hosted two Jeans Sales and our annual Kappa Kickoff benefiting the national philanthropies.
==Highlights of 2011==
In the spring of 2011 the Epsilon Kappa Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma had its largest spring pledge class with eight new members. After a great recruitment in the fall of 2011 the Epsilon Kappa Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma gained 98 new members.Our annual fall philanthropy event, Kappa Kickoff, was a successful flag football tournament, with participation from other Greek organizations and University sports teams. The Epsilon Kappa chapter has grown dramatically in the past year. We nearly doubled in size after our spring and fall recruitment, growing from 159 members to 262.
==Highlights of 2012==
Lindsay Webb appointed to be a Leadership Consultant.
71st Biennial Kappa Kappa Gamma Convention attended by Emily Fuldner, Libby Allen, Taylor Kane, and Lindsay Bratun. , where we won the Recruitment Award
This fall, our campus welcomed Alpha Xi Delta into our Greek community. The University of South Carolina now offers thirteen different Panhellenic sororities to its students. During the beginning of October, our campus experienced the consequences of yet another natural disaster. Hurricane Matthew closed campus for three entire days at the beginning of October. Thankfully, the city of Columbia was not directly affected by the storm; however, Charleston and other coastal areas in South Carolina were impacted by devastating flooding. Once again our campus was able to assist our neighboring communities that were directly affected by this hurricane.
This fall, our Sorority Council took the initiative to enact a Greek-wide plan that ensures safer Greek events. Under this new plan, events must be approved by the University of South Carolina's Fraternity and Sorority Life a few weeks prior to the actual event. Events are only approved if they follow strict guidelines in order to ensure the safety of its participants. Each week, a list of the approved events are sent out to the members in Greek organizations, discouraging the attendance of events that do not follow the University's regulations.
==Highlights of 2017==
'''Seniors'''
'''Fall 2017 New Member Weekly Events'''
'''One Time New Member Events'''
'''Kappa Trainer Events'''
'''Functions'''
'''Special Events'''
'''Philanthropic Involvement'''
Our chapter choose to support the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation and Reading is Fundamental because these are Kappa's two national philanthropies. We love being able to help our own sisters that are in need through the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation. Giving back to them is so special especially when they have given so much to this organization. In addition, we choose to support Reading is Fundamental (RIF) because it is so important that all children are given the resources necessary to learn how to read. We love how we can see the impact of our philanthropy throughout our own community's primary schools. We get to travel to different schools throughout South Carolina through Cocky's Reading Express and deliver books to children in need. Seeing our direct impact to a cause that is so important makes our philanthropy so special. At the beginning of the year we also voted on whether to host Girls Academy. We all saw this as an amazing opportunity to help young women in our community. We as not only college women, but sorority women have so much to offer young minds. We have the power to inspire these young girls in such an important time of growth in their lives. We are so excited to be active in so many amazing philanthropies.
[[File:Epsilon Kappa Chapter Room.png|thumb|Epsilon Kappa's Chapter Room 2017]]
==Highlights of 2018==
'''Chapter and School Timeline'''
Chapter Council meetings at 5pm on Sundays
Chapter meetings at 7pm on Sundays
Standards meetings at 7pm on Mondays
House Board meetings one Tuesday per month
1/16/18 – first day of class
1/28/18 – sisterhood chair, t-shirt chair, banner chair, outreach chair, percent night chair, and philanthropy public relations chair announced
2/4/18 – new member assistants announced
2/11/18 – committees announced
2/18/18 – Epsilon Kappa’s founders’ day
2/25/28 – new member recruitment workshop
3/4/18 – Daily Gamecock announces KKG as USC’s best sorority
3/10/18 to 3/18/18 – spring break
3/21/18 to 3/23/18 – inspiration period
3/25/18 – new member recruitment workshop
4/22/18 – chapter-wide recruitment workshop
4/27/18 – philanthropy hours due
4/29/18 – makeup recruitment workshop
4/30/18 – last day of class
4/30/18 nominating committee chair elected
5/1/18 – reading day
5/2/18 to 5/9/18 – final exams
5/11/18 – payment application plan due
5/11/18 – status applications due
5/11/18 to 5/12/18 – Spring Commencement
8/6/18 – House live-in girls and Chapter Council move-in
8/8/18 to 8/15/18 – recruitment workshop
8/16/18 – 8/17/18 – round 1 of formal recruitment
8/18/18 – 8/19/18 – round 2 of formal recruitment
8/20/18 – 8/22/18 – round 3 of formal recruitment
8/22/18 – new student convocation
8/23/18 – first day of class
8/25/18 – preference round of formal recruitment
8/26/18 – Bid Day
8/28/18 – new member pinning
8/29/18 – makeup new member pinning
9/4/18 – 10/9/18 – new member meetings held on Tuesdays of this period
9/7/18 – new member retreat
9/9/18 – event assistant, percent night chair, outreach chair, and philanthropy public relations chair announced
9/16/18 – initiation review
9/17/18 – fireside review
9/18/18 – initiation review
9/19/18 – initiation review
9/23/18 – committees announced, homecoming and dance chairs announced
9/24/18 – initiation and fireside review
9/25/18 – fireside review
9/26/18 – initiation review
9/30/18 – initiation review
10/1/18 – initiation and fireside review
10/3/18 – initiation review
10/5/18 – 10/7/18 – parent’s weekend
10/7/18 – nominating committee elected
10/7/18 – initiation and fireside review
10/8/18 – initiation review
10/9/18 – big little reveal
10/10/18 to 10/12/18 – composite pictures taken
10/12/18 – fireside
10/13/18 – initiation
10/14/18 – individual slate and preference forms due
10/14/18 – initiation brunch
10/18/18 to 10/21/18 – fall break
11/4/18 – formal chapter ritual review
11/4/18 – presidency bylaw voted on
11/6/18 – no class because of general elections
11/11/18 – slate presented
11/18/18 – chapter elections
11/21/18 to 11/25/18 – thanksgiving break
11/26/18 to 11/30/18 – big appreciation week
11/26/18 – house contracts are submitted
11/27/18 – makeup composite pictures are taken
12/1/18 – status applications due
12/2/18 – leadership day for new officers
12/2/18 – installation of new officers
12/7/18 – last day of class
12/10/18 to 12/17/18 – finals exams
'''Special Events'''
• 2/11/18 – Behind Happy Faces programming seminar - All freshmen and sophomore members attended this seminar focusing on how to deal with mental illness and how to help sisters struggling with it.
• 2/14/18 – 50 Shades of Grey premier sisterhood event
• 2/22/18 – Good Will Hunting function
• 3/28/18 – Sweet Tea with KKG
• 3/29/18 – Glow with the Flow function
• 4/8/18 – senior sisterhood event: Senior Tea
• 4/9/18 to 4/13/18 – Greek Week - Kappa was partnered with Theta Chi and Iota Phi Alpha, Main events of the week were a social media competition, a blood drive, Night at Strom, MGC Cultural Food Fest, Greek Life Through the Ages presentation, and Greek Sing (a dance and lip-singing competition between the teams), Kappa won a Delta Zeta social media challenge with Pelican’s so $100 was donated to RIF
• 4/11/18 – senior sisterhood event: Mad Platter
• 4/13/18 – strawberry picking sisterhood event
• 4/14/18 – formal
• 4/19/18 – Fireflies baseball game sisterhood event
• 4/30/18 – Pelicans Snowballs and Sweat Cycle class exam breaker
• 5/1/18 – Cool Beans tab exam breaker
• 5/2/18 – exam goody bags and Insomnia cookies exam breaker
• 5/3/18 – Starbucks exam breaker
• 5/4/18 – piñata exam breaker
• 9/14/18 – Kant Be Tamed function
• 9/30/18 – pumpkin patch sisterhood event
• 10/4/18 – t-shirt swap sisterhood event
• 10/5/18 – Parent’s Cocktail - During Parent’s Weekend, all families were invited to a social event that included dinner, dancing, and conversations.
• 10/7/18 – parent house tour - During Parent’s Weekend, all families were invited to the house for a presentation on what it means to be in a sorority, information on what dues are spent on, and to explore the rooms of the house.
• 10/10/18 – movie night with insomnia sisterhood event
• 10/11/18 – roller skating sisterhood event
• 10/21/18-10/27/18 – homecoming week, Kappa was partnered with Delta Kappa Epsilon, Main events of the week were the Kickoff Carnival, Spurs and Struts (a dance competition between homecoming teams), Color your Carolina (a banner competition), Breakfast with a Side of Trivia, a Talent Show, Cocky’s Canned Creations (each team built a display with food cans they had previously donated), the Stroll Off, and a parade of another display.
• 11/2/18 – Backwoods function
• 11/5/18 – Kappa Kappaccino
• 11/8/18 – Barre3 sisterhood event
• 11/29/18 – senior sisterhood event: Mad Platter
• 11/30/18 – semi formal
• 12/7/18 – holiday mixer with Sigma Phi Epsilon
''' Academics'''
In the Spring of 2018, our chapter’s grade point average was a 3.54 and we were ranked 5th out of the Panhellenic community. Gifts are awarded to each member to achieves a 4.0 for the semester. In the Spring of 2018, there were 67 4.0s. Each week at chapter, members are awarded “Geek of the Week” for outstanding test scores, and each receives a gift card. This Fall, the number of members who could receive “Geek of the Week” per week was raised from one to five. This Fall, we added “Study Sundays” every Sunday from 12-4, where study sessions are held at the house with snacks. Members willing to tutor fill out a form with their specialties so that members in need of tutoring can be matched with a helpful sister. We have organized an EK google drive including teacher and class recommendations as well as other academic resources. We also have an EK Chegg account to help members learn class material. This Fall we created a PowerPoint listing every member’s major so sisters know who to seek out for help and who to take classes with. In the Spring, we host “Sweet Tea with KKG” and in the Fall, we host “Kappa Kappaccino” where members are encouraged to invite professors to the house for tea/coffee and snacks.
'''Honors and Awards'''
The Daily Gamecock, the school newspaper, voted Kappa as the “Best Sorority on Campus." At formal each year, four awards are given to Kappa members. Three new member awards are given – the “Owl Award” was given to Rachyl Jones for being “wise beyond her years,” the “Key Award” was given to Katie Denson for being “sisterly,” and the “Fleur-de-lis Award” was given to Erynne Rasheed for being “true blue.” The “Woman of the Year Award” was given to Beth Poche for her outstanding role as president.
'''Programs'''
At Kappa Convention, Epsilon Kappa was awarded honorable mention in Panhellenic involvement. Leadership academy was attended by Lauren Haisfield. Convention was attended by Lulu Hawken, Katherine Meuse, and Ali Geary. One new member attended the New Member Experience Conference with USC’s Fraternity and Sorority Leadership
'''Traditions'''
Each chapter, one member who we call Lady Minerva stands up and reads a heartfelt letter to a sister that has played an important role in her life. The sister who is the subject of the letter then becomes the new Lady Minerva and reads a letter to a different sister at the next chapter. Each week, members can nominate each other for “Supportive Sister” and they are announced at chapter. At each chapter, “Geeks of the Week” are awarded gift cards for their academic achievements. Each month, the Recording Secretary sends a newsletter to active members, parents, and alumni with chapter updates and upcoming events. During each inspiration period, the chapter engages in a game of "I-ssasins,” where members split up into teams and play a game of campus-wide manhunt. A new-member sleepover is held the night before initiation and seniors come to bond with the new pledge class. At the end of the schoolyear, seniors are awarded with superlative sashes to highlight their best qualities. At the end of the schoolyear, senior wills are read highlighting funny stories and the members’ favorite memories in Kappa.
'''Campus'''
Unfortunately, USC was impacted by two more hurricanes this year. Hurricane Florence was a serious threat to South Carolina and the campus was closed from the afternoon of September 11th through the 14th. Luckily, it did not hit Columbia as hard as expected. Later in the year, Hurricane Michael closed the campus on October 11th, but the city recovered quickly. The Panhellenic community discussed the possibility of adding a 14th sorority to campus, and while Kappa voted for the change, it did not pass the 2/3 vote from other sororities. Going on inside the chapter, two bylaws were changed this year. One bylaw created a GPA minimum for mandatory Period of Concern. That minimum was set at a 2.7. The other bylaw addressed presidency, making it so that any Sophomore or Junior in good standing could be president, taking out the clause of previous chapter council experience.
'''Philanthropy'''
The Kappa Kappa Gamma foundation is important to us because part of being in a sorority is understanding how expansive the organization is and how Kappa is still there after graduation. We are proud to give back to the Kappa community especially after everything Kappa has given us. All of the money made from percent nights goes to this organization.
We also support Kappa’s national philanthropy, RIF. We are lucky enough to have a direct impact on our surrounding community on top of raising money. Through Literacy is Key and Cocky’s Reading Express, we visit kids at local elementary schools, give them books (for some of them, this is the first book they can call their own), and do crafts with them. The money from our Spring and Fall philanthropy events goes directly to RIF. It is so important that children are not only given the resources to learn but are encouraged to learn as well. We love encouraging the education of children in our local community.
Lastly, we are honored to be chosen to participate in Girls’ Academy. We fundraised for this event by spreading the word on our campus’ busiest street and by sending letters to our family and friends. We have now raised all of the money and are so excited for our event coming up in the Spring. Girls’ Academy is important to us because we have all been at that age where it is so easy to lose confidence in yourself. As strong college women, it is important to be there for girls who are going through the socially challenging times of middle school.
• 1/29/18 - Chipotle percent night - $136.70 was raised
• 2/5/18 to 2/28/18 – book drive battle with Pi Beta Phi
• 2/9/18 – Literacy is Key event
• 3/26/18 – Southern Belly % percent night - $17.96 was raised
• 3/20/18 – Literacy is Key event
• Barefoot percent night - $16.54 was raised
• 3/24/18 – Spring philanthropy event: Kappa Kar Wash - At Kappa Kar Wash, members washed cars in the community for donations to RIF, $1,360 was raised
• 10/2/18 – Fall philanthropy event: Singo - At Singo, the community bought tickets to engage in a game of bingo with music, $2,208.56 was raised
• 10/16/18 – Entourage percent day
• 10/26/18 – Freaky Friday Halloween Carnival at Satchel Ford Elementary School
• 10/29/18 – Chipotle percent night, $262.47 was raised
'''Community events'''
Kappa members are very engaged with the Panhellenic and USC community. These are the events which members participated in.
• 2/13/18 – Delta Zeta’s Sweet Caroline bone marrow drive
• 2/21/18 – Alpha Chi Omega’s Alpha Male pageant
• 3/3/18 – Dance Marathon - The Kappa team had 94 members and raised $19,813 to the total amount of $1,025,171
• 3/20/18 – Kappa Delta’s roller-skating event
• 3/22/18 – Kappa Delta’s philanthropy concert
• 3/25/18 – Zeta Tau Alpha’s Think Pink 5k
• 4/13/18 – Relay for Life, The Kappa team had 25 members and we raised $5,000
• 4/21/18 – Gamma Phi’s Moonball
• 4/21/18 – Delta Zeta’s Bark-BQ
• 4/22/18 – Alpha Delta Pi’s Kicking it for the Kids event
• 4/24/18 – Pi Chi roll call, 13 Kappas served as Pi Chis, helping potential new members find their home in a sorority.
• 4/29/18 – Phi Mu’s Hailey Bordeaux Memorial Brunch
• 9/19/18 – Circle of Sisterhood’s t-shirt drive
• 9/24/18 to 9/28/18 – hazing prevention week, This week, Kappa was paired with Theta Chi and partook in a social media challenge to raise awareness for hazing. There was also a banner competition between the sororities and we placed 3rd.
• 9/27/18 – Phi Mu’s Bonnamu
• 10/3/18 – Alpha Chi Omega’s paint war
• 10/4/18 – Pi Beta Phi’s Burgers and Phries
• 10/28/18 – Delta Zeta’s Turtle Trot
• 10/30/18 – Trick or Treat with the Greeks, At this event, families trick-or-treated in Greek Village and Kappa members gave out candy on the front porch.
• 11/3/18 – Delta Delta Delta’s Gameday event
• 11/5/18 – Zeta Tau Alpha’s Big Man on Campus
• 11/10/18 – Alpha Gamma Delta’s Give Thanks with Alpha Gam event
• 11/10/18 – Alpha Xi Delta’s day of service
• 11/15/18 – Chi Omega’s Cookoff
• 11/16/18 – Gamma Phi Beta’s G-Live at B-Live
==Highlights of 2019==
The chapter’s overall nature is pleasant and genuine. Our members frequently support one another and work together to achieve goals as a group.
[[File:Epsilon Kappa Chapter 2019.png|thumb|Epsilon Kappa Chapter 2019]]
The chapter celebrated Founders Day together with the celebration of the Initiation of New Member class ‘19. Active members and alumnae gathered for a two-hour brunch filled with socialization and appreciation of KKG. We celebrated with the Founders Day Ceremony and raised awareness of the upcoming sesquicentennial celebration. We have begun to celebrate Kappa’s 150 anniversary by announcing weekly a different member of Kappa over the years who has made an impact in her life. Our plans for the 2020 celebration will be thought of more in depth by the new Chapter Council.
Our Instagram account is @southcarolinakkg
[[File:Epsilon Kappa Glow.png|thumb|Epsilon Kappa Chapter 2019]]
• Chapter Council meetings at 5pm on Sundays
• Chapter meetings at 7pm on Sundays
• Standards meetings at 7pm on Mondays
• House Board meetings once a month
• 1/14/19 — first day of class
• 1/27/19 — membership chairman assistants and new member chairman assistants announced. Departments announced.
• 2/17/19 — new member recruitment workshop
• 2/18/19 — Epsilon Kappa’s Founders Day
• 3/10/19 - 3/17/19 — Spring Break
• 3/24/29 — new member recruitment workshop
• 4/14/19 — chapter wide recruitment workshop
• 4/28/19 — makeup recruitment workshop
• 4/28/19 — nom com committee chairman selected
• 4/29/19 — last day of classes
• 4/30/19 — reading day
• 5/1/19 - 5/8/19 — final exams
• 5/10/19 — status applications due
• 5/10/19 and 5/11/19 — Spring Commencement
• 8/5/19 — Kappa House opens for move in
• 8/8/19 - 8/14/19 — recruitment workshops
• 8/15/19 and 8/16/19 — round 1 of formal recruitment
• 8/17/19 and 8/18/19 — round 2 of formal recruitment
• 8/19/19 and 8/20/19 — round 3 of formal recruitment
• 8/21/19 — new student convocation
• 8/22/19 — first day of class
• 8/24/19 — preference round of formal recruitment
• 8/25/19 — bid day
• 8/27/19 — new member pinning ceremony
• 8/28/19 — makeup new member pinning ceremony
• 9/3/19 - 10/1/19 — new member meetings held every Tuesday at 7pm
• 9/4/19 - 9/25/19 — makeup new member meetings held every Wednesday at 7pm
• 9/8/19 — Initiation review
• 9/9/19 — Initiation review
• 9/11/19 — Initiation review
• 9/12/19 — Initiation review
• 9/15/19 — departments announced, Initiation review
• 9/16/19 — Initiation review
• 9/17/19 — Initiation review
• 9/18/19 — Initiation review
• 9/22/19 — Initiation review
• 9/23/19 — Initiation review
• 9/24/19 — Initiation review
• 9/25/19 — Initiation review
• 9/27/19 - 9/29/19 — Parents weekend
• 10/2/19 — big/little reveal
• 10/2/19 - 10/5/19 — Inspiration week
• 10/4/19 — Initiation
• 10/5/19 — Initiation
• 10/6/19 — Founders Day/Initiation brunch
• 10/10/19 - 10/11/19 — fall break
• 10/14/19 — new member ritual review, nom com is elected
• 10/27/19 — personal preference form due
• 10/29/19 — individual slate form due
• 11/10/19 — slate presented
• 11/11/19 - 11/15/19 — big appreciation week
• 11/17/19 — chapter elections, leadership day for new officers
• 11/24/19 — installation of new officers
• 11/27/19 - 12/1/19 — thanksgiving break
• 12/3/19 — status applications due
• 12/6/19 — last day of classes
• 12/7/19 — reading day
• 12/8/19 - 12/16/19 — final exams
'''Academics'''
• In the Spring of 2019, our chapter’s grade point average was a 3.56 and we were ranked 3rd out of the Panhellenic community. There were 67 4.0s.
• Gifts were awarded to each member to achieve a 4.0 for the semester.
• Every week a member of the Chapter who has excelled in her exams is eligible for “Geek of the Week” and receives a gift card.
• Members of the chapter who did well in certain areas had the opportunity to tutor other members who may need extra help.
• We also have a Chegg account to help members access outside material.
'''Honors and Awards'''
• Our chapter won Greek Week this past spring.
• At formal every year, 4 awards are given out to members. There are 3 new member awards — the “owl”, the “key”, and the “fleur de lis awards”. There is also the “woman of the year award,” which goes to a member who has been outstanding consistently.
'''Programs'''
• Leadership Academy was attended by Emily Saatoff
• Convention was attended by Rachyl Jones, Erin Flanagan, Kerry Callaghan, Kiley Shafer, and Marisa Laycock.
'''Traditions'''
• Every chapter, one member receives the “Lady Minerva” book where she stands up before the chapter and reads a letter to another member who has impacted her life in a positive way. That book is then passed on to that member.
• Each week, a “Supportive Sister” is nominated and selected.
• Traditionally, a new member sleepover before initiation is held where new members and seniors get the chance to bond. This year, the event was held after FS and the new members went home.
• Seniors are awarded superlatives on sashes to wear at their last formal in the spring.
• At the end of the year, senior wills are read where seniors get the chance to look back on their time in Kappa and share funny stories.
'''Special Events'''
• 1/27/19 — Girls Academy Programming
• 2/13/19 — Sisterhood trampoline event
• 2/28/19 — Mardi Gras function
• 3/23/19 — Sisterhood event to Charleston
• 3/27/19 — Sweet Tea with KKG
• 3/29/19 - 3/31/19 — Mom’s Weekend
o This included events at Studio Cellar for painting and a Shopping event Saturday
• 4/1/19 - 4/5/19 — Greek Week
o Kappa was paired with Phi Kappa Tau and Theta Delta Chi
o Main events were a social media competition to help with sexual assault awareness, a blood drive, a Night at Strom, a PSA creation competition, MGC Cultural Food Fest, and Greek Sing.
• 4/5/19 — Master's function
• 4/7/19 — Senior Tea
• 4/19/19 — Formal
• 4/26/19 — Tour of Cola sisterhood event
• 5/1/19 — Exam goody bags at house
• 5/2/19 — Insomnia and Ice cream bar at house
• 5/3/19 — Tropical smoothie tab and HIIT class with Molly Jones
• 5/4/19 — Krispy Kreme donuts and coffee at house
• 5/6/19 — Cool beans tab
• 9/10/19 — Barefoot T-shirt design sisterhood event
• 9/20/19 — Kappa Kowboy’s function
• 9/27/19 — Parents Cocktail
o During parents weekend, families were invited to get together to enjoy a night of conversation
• 10/3/19 — movie night with insomnia sisterhood event
• 10/16/19 — State fair sisterhood event
• 10/25/19 — Backwoods function
• 10/26/10 - 11/1/19 — Homecoming week
o Kappa was partnered with Beta Theta Pi
o Events that week included a 5k run, comic book carnival, dodgeball tournament, movie night, float displays, Carolina’s got talent, trivia competition, and spurs and struts dance competition.
• 11/13/19 — Kappa Kappucino
• 12/8/19 — Bubble soccer sisterhood event
'''Philanthropy'''
• 2/9/19 — Girls Academy
• 2/22/19 — Literacy is Key event
• 3/4/19 — Southern Belly Percent night
• 4/2/19 — Moe’s Percent night
• 4/8/19 - 4/11/19 — Rally For RIF week
o Included selling baked goods, a percent night, sign painting at the house, and “Kake a Kappa” as ways to raise money for RIF.
• 4/12/19 — 2 Literacy is Key events held
• 4/13/19 — Spring Philanthropy Event: Kappa Karwash
• 4/15/19 — Groucho’s Percent night
• 4/16/19 — Vestique Percent night
• 4/22/19 — Panera Percent night
• 4/25/19 — Groucho’s Percent night
• 10/18/19 — Fall Philanthropy Event: Kappa Disko
• 10/28/19 — Burger Tavern 77 Percent night
• 11/25/19 — MOD Pizza Percent night
• 12/2/19 — Chipotle Percent night
'''Chapter Goals'''
• Chapter Council Approachability
o One of the goals set was to improve the approachability of Chapter Council so that members felt more comfortable asking any questions they had, as well as feeling like their voices were being heard.
• Greater focus on Philanthropy
o This year we wanted to emphasize the importance of philanthropy to our chapter. This was done by adding awareness to when Literacy is Key events were happening, adding a week filled with ways we can raise money for RIF leading up to our Spring Philanthropy event, and using social media to raise awareness of when events benefiting our philanthropy were happening.
• Promoting Sisterhood
o The chapter as a whole wanted to encourage a strong sisterhood amongst members. This was done by having monthly sisterhood events such as trips to Charleston, activities like bubble soccer and trampoline parks, and t-shirt design classes. All events were paid for through the chapter, so members could sign up to spend time with each other at events already set up.
[[File:Epsilon Kappa 2019.png|thumb|Epsilon Kappa Chapter 2019]]
'''Community Events'''
o Epsilon Kappa currently supports the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation, Reading is Fundamental, and Girls Academy.
o As members of Kappa it is important to give to the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation because it is a special part about being in this organization. If we can give back to former and current Kappas, we are able to be active participants in an aspect of Kappa that is unique to us, and we can be reminded that Kappa is more than just four years.
o We also support KKG's national philanthropy, Reading is Fundamental. This spring we celebrated 15 years with RIF. We help partake in RIF’s goals by putting on Literacy is Key events monthly, where we go to local underserved elementary schools and spend time with kids, making sure each child goes home with a book. We also encourage members to get involved with UofSCs reading program, Cocky’s Reading Express, where they go to schools across the state to help kids with reading.
o We also support Girls Academy. We had so much fun spending time and getting to know the middle school girls of Blythewood Middle School. Middle school is a hard time, and being able to spend time with them and learn how to overcome the difficulties girls at that age faced was incredible. We are even more honored to have been selected for a second year of Girls Academy, and we are currently fundraising for the event in the spring of 2020.
Our Spring 2019 total was $35,689, and at our first Kappa Disko event in Fall 2019, we raised $12,291.
Events that Kappa members took part in throughout the year in the Panhellenic and USC Community:
• 2/14/19 — CPA Galentines Movie Night
• 2/17/19 — IFC Flag Football tournament
• 2/23/19 — Pi Beta Phi: Dodge the Arrow Dodgeball tournament
• 2/26/19 — Alpha Chi Omega: Alpha Male pageant
• 3/2/19 — Dance Marathon
• 3/18/19 - 3/22/19 — Kappa Delta’s: Shamrock Week
o Included events such as hosting a concert, handing out donuts and buttons, and roller skating.
• 3/26/19 — Alpha Gamma Delta: Strike out Hunger bowling night
• 3/29/19 — Chi Omega: War of Wings
• 3/29/19 — Gamma Phi Beta: Moonball tournament
• 4/5/19 — Relay for Life
• 4/11/19 — Tri Delta: 15K in 1 Day
• 4/12/19 — Alpha Xi Delta: Light it up Blue 5K
• 4/14/19 — Delta Zeta: Bark-B-Q
• 4/23/19 — Pi Chi Roll Call
• 4/27/19 — Alpha Delta Pi: Lion Challenge
• 9/22/19 — Delta Zeta: Turtle Trot 5K
• 9/23/19 - 9/27/19 — National Hazing Prevention Week
• 9/23/19 - 9/27/19 — Kappa Delta’s Shamrock Week
• 9/27/19 — Alpha Xi Delta: Blue and Gold Gala
• 10/2/19 — Alpha Chi Omega: Paint Wars
• 10/16/19 — Gamma Phi Beta: G-Live
• 10/21/19 — Zeta Tau Alpha: Big Man on Campus
• 10/23/19 — Phi Mu: Bonnamu
• 10/29/19 — Trick or Treat with the Greeks
• 11/6/19 — Chi Omega: Cook Off
• 11/17/19 — CofS Spelling Bee
Harris Pastides, the 28th President of UofSC, retired at the end of his 11th year in spring of 2019. There was a lot of controversy surrounding the selection of the new president, Bob Caslen, as many in the campus community felt as though the Board of Trustees did not consider a diverse enough group of candidates. However, the vote went through and Bob Caslen is currently serving his first year as President of UofSC.
The Panhellenic community once again considered adding a 14th sorority on campus. While Kappa voted for the change, it did not pass the 2/3 vote from other sororities.
==Highlights of 2020==
'''January 2020 Highlights'''
1/12 - FSL (Fraternity and Sorority Life) Leadership retreat at U of SC.
- 2020-2021 Chapter President Erin Flanagan attended.
1/26 - Greek Leadership Conference
- All-day conference held in U of SC Russell House.
- Members of each Fraternity/Sorority attended.
- All EK Chapter Council Members attended, broke out into breakout sessions coinciding with their position (EX: Event Chairman attended the Event Workshop).
1/31 - 80s in Aspen Function.
'''February 2020 Highlights'''
2/8 - Girls Academy at Blythewood Middle School
- Since 2019, the EK Chapter has been selected to host Girls Academy, a day-long training session for middle school girls teaching them empowerment and confidence skills. We were honored to be selected again to host this year. Girls Academy stands for Girls Inspiring Respect Leadership and Service (GIRLS). This acronym was a key part in our mission.
- Throughout the day, girls traveled with their “teams”. There were 5 teams total, and each had 2 kappa members leading them. Different teams had different team-building activities planned.
- Group sessions included topics about body positivity, bullying, and speaker sessions where female professionals came and spoke about their careers. At the end of the day, the girls performed skits with their teams and their parents were invited to attend their “graduation” from Girls Academy.
- Over 60 members of EK attended the event and helped out with meals, activities, and time-keeping.
2/18 - EK Founders Day
- Displayed some of EK’s photo memorabilia throughout the year in the house.
- Chefs planned a special dinner for EK, including a cake.
2/28 -Bahamas & Pajamas Function 2/29 -Dance Marathon Main Event -Our chapter formed a KKG team for Main Event, a 14-hour fundraising day for Dance Marathon, an organization to provide funds to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. -U of SC Dance Marathon raised funds for the local CMNH hospital, Prisma Health Center. -In addition to our Kappa team, many of our members were on staff and held leadership positions on the “Ignite” and “Morale” teams. '''March 2020 Highlights''' 3/4 -Sweet Tea -On March 4th, our VP of Academic Excellence, Erin O’Sullivan, hosted and planned our annual professor & students mixer. Here, members of PC ‘18 and PC ‘17 were required to invite a professor of their choice to join them at EK for tea and cake. This was a great bonding opportunity for our girls and allowed them to make further connections with their professors. 3/8 -3/15 -Spring Break 3/13 -USC Announces Extended Spring Break ...Around the week of March 27th, USC announces that school will be virtual until Fall 2020… Members quickly had to transition to adapting to online school, but they handled this with grace and positivity. Everything was moved online and our events were forced to be canceled. Although this was tough on our members and for everyone at U of SC, Chapter meetings every Sunday at 7 pm were still held through the month of May and until the school year ended. Our Chapter Council did an amazing job continuing to meet with and encourage members throughout these tough times. '''April 2020 Highlights''' 4/26 -Final chapter meeting of the semester. 4/29-5/6 -Final Exam Week -During exams, it was important to EK to make sure that our members felt supported. Our VPAE scheduled a Netflix Party and a virtual exercise class during exam week as “Exam Breakers.” '''May 2020 Highlights''' 5/8 -Graduation - Senior graduation was virtual this year, but our Education chairman shipped “Senior Gifts” to our graduating members (stainless steel cups with a golden key etched onto it). Education Chairman, Maura Delaney, included a hand-written note and their “Senior Superlative” banner in their gift box. 5/9 - Virtual Initiation - 2 members of PC’19 were not able to be initiated with everyone else in the Fall, so we rescheduled to have them initiated with HQ. In the week leading up to Initiation, both members received candy and gifts as a way of getting them excited for Initiation. '''In Memoriam''' 7/24/2020: On July 24th, 2020, our beautiful sister, Ally Carpel (PC’17), passed away tragically and suddenly. This was a very tough time for our members, as Ally was a remarkable person who lit up every room. To celebrate her life, EK hosted a ceremony later in the week to honor her and invite members to share stories about her. Kappa Headquarters, with the assistance of EK, was also able to support her family financially. In the house, we have an Ally memorial set-up where members can write notes and offer up their thoughts/memories to her. In the first week back at school, we held a memorial dinner with Ally’s favorite meal at the house. Mental health is very important to EK and we continue to support our members and her family with this great loss. '''August 2020 Highlights''' NOTE: When it was time for everyone to return to school, we had strict guidelines for the house. Everyone was required to wear a mask at all times (even house girls) when leaving their room or entering the house grounds. The meal line was marked with social distance reminders and 3 hand sanitizing stations were at each of the doors. Members were not permitted to eat in the common room, even though we had plastic dividers separating tables. Our chapter and House Board did a remarkable job adhering to CDC guidelines throughout the semester. 8/6 - 8/9: Work Week - Because of the Coronavirus pandemic, events over 50 people could not be held. As recruitment went on, there was hope of EK being able to hold Preference round in person, but that was later canceled. However, members of EK and especially PC ‘19 worked vigorously over Zoom with our recruitment chair, Sydney Williams, to make sure everything went right. We even had our “themed” days although it was over Zoom. During work week, we had 2 “Zoom Chairs” who would handle breakout rooms. After just a few days of practice, our girls were ready to go. 8/10 - 8/12: Round 1 - This round looked a bit different than in years past (due to COVID). Because of the volume of PNMs, Greek Life was forced to watch and rate “Intro” videos that PNMs recorded. - Here, we had the opportunity to view PNMs “About Me” videos and see if they would be a good addition to Kappa. 8/13 - 8/14: Round 2 - During “Philanthropy” Round, members had the opportunity to share their experiences with RIF, Girls Academy, and the KKG Foundation.- During this round, members were assigned morning and/or afternoon “shifts” to break up some of the day.- We also included a 4-minute philanthropy video documenting EKs love and involvement with all 3 of our philanthropies. 8/16 - 8/18: Round 3- During “Sisterhood” Round, members were able to form deeper connections with PNMs with extended conversation time.- We also had a 4-minute video documenting what our sisterhood is like. 8/21 - 8/22: Preference Round - Preference round was still very special this year even though it looked differently than normal. Although this was still over Zoom, members of EK did a wonderful job recruiting and making PNMs feel welcome. 8/23: Bid Day 2020- Throughout the day, NMs would “run” to the house in shifts, in accordance with CDC guidelines. Masks were required by everyone, and the spacing out of New Members running home really helped. After NMs received their “buddies,” they were not allowed to do activities together that did not adhere to CDC guidelines (go in a car together, eat less than 6 ft apart). Although this was a disappointment for us, it was important to keep our members safe. Throughout Bid Day, EK did a wonderful job ensuring the safety of members and new members. Our president, Erin Flanagan, hosted an intro Zoom as a celebration for our NMs on the night of Bid Day where they got a chance to meet us, get a house tour, and see what Kappa is like. 8/31: NM Pinning Ceremony '''September 2020 Highlights''' 9/23: Cowboy Hat Decorating Sisterhood Event - Members signed up to come to the house and retrieve their cowboy hat decorating “kits” that included a hat, glitter, and other decorations. This was a huge hit for our chapter and members loved it. - NOTE: Every Saturday, Columbia has a farmers market called “Soda City.” Each week, interested members were added into a “Soda City Group Chat” where they could attend as a group and spend time with one another. 9/30 - 10/3: Inspiration Period - Here, members took time to reflect on their sisterhood. Coffee + Donuts were provided the day before initiation and a game of I-Assassins was played throughout the week. This allowed for our sisters to spend time together (safely) and get to know each other and bond before Initiation. 9/30: Big/Little Reveal - Our Zoom Chairman set up our Big/Little reveal on Zoom. All of the girls met in the “main room” and then broke out into separate breakout rooms with their families. Although different than how we normally do it, this was the safest and best option for our chapter. [[File:Big Little 2020.png|thumb|Big Little 2020]] '''October 2020 Highlights''' 10/3: Initiation - We separated this year’s virtual initiation into 2 times (one at 9AM and one at 11AM). All in all, the ceremony lasted about 40 minutes and we had the opportunity to invite a few alumni to attend. Although small and not in-person, it turned out to be very intimate and special for our NMs. 10/4: Founders Day/Sesquicentennial Celebration - To honor Kappa’s 150 years ceremony, we decorated the house and had photos throughout the years displayed.- We also held a special brunch at the house, including a customized cake for members to enjoy. - A social media post honoring our sisterhood and its history was posted, and we also invited our members to post recognition for 150 years of sisterhood. - In addition to our own celebration, on the night of October 13th, members were invited to attend the Kappa HQ Virtual 150 Years Celebration. 10/19 - 10/23 Rally For RIF Week - Although our semester fundraiser looked a little bit different this semester, we were able to raise over $3,000 for RIF ($3,200 not including % nights/days). Most of our members created donation pages and shared them with friends and family. - Throughout the week to raise money, we had a percent day at Carolina Cafe and Chipotle, a Virtual Disney Trivia Night, a HIIT workout class, and a percent day for three different local Columbia boutiques. - NOTE: Throughout the year, we had over 15 other tabs and % nights at restaurants and cafes to raise money for RIF. 10/28: Parents Weekend Zoom - Parents of members were invited to a “Parents Weekend Zoom” instead of our annual Parent’s Weekend activities (in-person). Here, philanthropy and sisterhood presentations were shared and our House Chairman and President gave a house tour! '''November 2020 Highlights''' 11/9: Barefoot T-Shirt Cutting + Nail Tab Sisterhood Event - Members were invited to learn how to cut and create Gameday T-shirts at the house! - On this same day, members were also invited to sign up for a free manicure at Devine Nails and Spa in Columbia. 11/15: Leadership Day & New Chapter Council is Inducted - Old Chapter Council officers met with the new CC members and discussed operations and tasks that coincide with particular roles. This was so our new CC felt prepared going into the year. - 2020-2021’s new Chapter Council was inducted via Zoom chapter 11/17: Kitchen Staff Appreciation Day & Bracelet Making Sisterhood Event - To honor our kitchen staff, we had a staff appreciation for them where sisters were invited to make cards and decorate the house in their honor. This was a huge success and was a great way to show our gratitude to our staff for being so awesome throughout the year.- On this same day, we had a bracelet making event at the house where sisters could make customized bracelets (led by one of our members). 11/20: StudioFire Sisterhood Event - Our Chapter rented out StudioFire, a local Columbia workout center, and booked a class for our members to attend (outside and socially distanced). '''December 2020 Highlights''' 12/7-12/14: Finals Week - To encourage our members, our new VPAE offered some “Exam Breakers" throughout the week. These included: entry to win a Starbucks gift card if you sent a picture of you and a sister studying, a Dunkin Donuts Tab, a Yoga Class taught by one of our members, and a HIIT class led by another one of our members. Exam Breakers are always a fun way to reward our sisters with all their hard work and encourage them to keep going! 12/14 - End of Fall Semester 2020 '''Scholarship Awards''' This year, our EK Scholarship award was given to Anna Dunbar, PC’18, for her academic ability and application. This scholarship is awarded to an individual who has high academic and social integrity, grades, and extracurriculars. In addition to the EK scholarship, we give about 3 merit-based or need-based scholarships per year. '''Convention Awards''' Risk Management Award Honorable Mention: Epsilon Kappa, South Carolina Philanthropy Award ~ Signature EventHonorable Mention: Epsilon Kappa, South Carolina Recruitment AwardRecipient: Epsilon Kappa, South Carolina Most Outstanding Chapter AwardHonorable Mention: Epsilon Kappa, South Carolina '''Diversity Initiatives/Chapter Goals''' - The goals this year for our chapter were as follows: - Increase strong sense of sisterhood for seniors - Focus on making Chapter Council more approachable- Focus on increasing involvement with other chapters (not just Greek Village) - Create a Mental Health & Wellness Department (we did this and it has been a huge success!) '''Diversity and Equity''' This year, we decided to create a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee- Goals for this committee were to: - Increase involvement with other historically African-American sororities and fraternities - Invite guest speakers focused on issues of racism and diversity/inclusion initiatives to speak to our chapter Surrounding the death of George Floyd and BLM movements across the country, it was important for EK to turn within the chapter and think about our role in promoting diversity and inclusion. In addition to providing resources for our chapter to utilize to address the injustices, EK took to social media to show our chapter’s support for the movement. ==Highlights of 2021== Chapter and School Timeline Calendar Year *Chapter Council held at 5pm on Sunday *Chapter held at 6pm on Sunday *Standards Meetings held at 8pm on Sunday *Sisterhood Study Sundays at 10am *House board meetings once a month Chapter and University Events 1/11/21: First Day of Class 3/12/21: University Wellness Day 3/15/21: Recruitment Workshop 3/17/21: St. Patrick’s Day 3/22-27/21: I-Week 3/27/21: Initiation Ceremony 3/30/21: University Wellness Day 4/2/21: Good Friday 4/4/21: Easter Sunday 4/10/21: Recruitment Workshop 4/16/21: Formal 4/21/21: University Wellness Day 4/24/21: Makeup Recruitment Workshop 4/26/21: Last Day of Class 4/27-5/5/21: University Final Exams 4/27/21: Studio Fire Exam Breaker 4/29/21: Cool Beans Tab5/1/21: Chick-Fil-A Breakfast Exam Breaker 5/2/21: Chipotle Picnic at House Exam Breaker 5/6/21: University Greek Village Closes 8/2/21: University Greek Village Opens 8/4-10/21: Recruitment Workweek8/12-18/21: University Recruitment 8/19/21: First Day of Class 8/21/21: Recruitment 8/22/21: Bid Day 8/23/21: CPA New Member Summit 8/24/21: Formal Pledging 8/29/21-9/3/21: LC Visit 8/30/21: New Member Pinning 9/6/21: Labor Day 9/17/21: Function 9/21-23/21: Composite Pictures at the House 9/24-26/21: University Family Weekend 9/28/21-10/2/21: I-Week 10/2/21: Initiation 10/7-10/21: Fall Break 10/11-16/21: Homecoming Week 10/17/21: Nomination Committee Elections 10/21/21: Function10/24/21: Individual Slate and Personal Preference Forms Due 10/31/21: Halloween 11/7/21: Slate is presented 11/11/21: Veteran’s Day11/14/21: Chapter Elections 11/21/21: Leadership Day for New Officers11/21/21: New CC Transitions 11/23/21: Greek Village Closes 11/23-28/21: Thanksgiving Break 12/3/21: Last Day of Class Sisterhood Events 3/2/21: Netflix Viewing Party at the house 3/3/21: Professional Development LinkedIn SCC Event3/14/21: Studio Fire and Wellness Café 3/29- /21: Senior Week 3/29/21: Senior Studio Fire Event 3/30/21: Senior Studio Cellar Painting 3/30/21: Picnic Lunch at the House 3/31/21: Senior Nail Bar Tab4/7/21: Top Golf4/18/21: Senior Tea 4/19/21: Kappa Bingo Night 8/27/21: Kappa Kickoff 9/11-12/21: New Member Retreat 9/19/21: Senior Recognition 9/27-30/21: Big Little Week 9/30/21: Big Little Reveal 10/1/21: Sisterhood Event at House Panhellenic Involvement 3/22-27/21: Women’s Empowerment Week10/6/21: EmpowerHer Women’s Conference 10/26/21: Trick or Treat with the Greeks 11/14/21: DZ Fall Festival [[File:Epsilon Kappa Bid Day 2021.png|thumb|Epsilon Kappa Bid Day 2021]] '''Philanthropy''' Epsilon Kappa supports a local organization to Columbia, SC - Palmetto Place. Palmetto Place works as a safe space for children and youth which have faced abuse, homelessness, or neglect. Kappa’s involvement is impactful as it enables our sisters to become involved with our local community and develop meaningful relationships with those at Palmetto Place. Epsilon Kappa has found success in hosting a social event known as Kappa Disco. Kappa Disco is a silent disco held at an on-campus field, in which other Greek organizations compete to be voted to be the best DJ of the night. Along with such a fundraiser, Epsilon Kappa has been involved in other events such has hosting a local blood drive, sending holiday cards to those in the Air force, as well as participating in local 5ks. Other fundraisers Epsilon Kappa has held includes percent nights at local restaurants like MoD pizza, Chipotle, and more in which a percentage of the proceeds go to our local philanthropy, Palmetto Place. Philanthropic Involvement:2/19/21: Virtual Trunk show/Percent Night with Julia Grace Jewelry2/24/21: Panhellenic Tina VanSteenberger Keynote Speech 3/26/21: Virtual 5K3/26/21: Drive-In Movie 4/9/21: Relay for Life 4/12/21: Chipotle Percent Night 4/19/21: Blood Drive 9/21/21: Kappa Disco 11/15/21: Blood Drive 11/16/21: ModPizza Percent Night 12/1/21: Chipotle Percent Night 12/1/21: Holiday Cards Made for Airmen '''Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion''' In January, Kappa held a Diversity and Inclusion Programming workshop at which members became familiar of how to demonstrate inclusivity within the chapter. '''Operating in a Pandemic''' Due to COVID-19, Epsilon Kappa faced many changes to be made within operations. For example, throughout the Spring of 2021, chapter was held virtually which continued to be an option for members who did not feel comfortable attending in person in the fall as well. In terms of recruitment, rushing was held in person with all actives and PNMs with masks on. Such small changes were seen at all our events including formal, percent nights, and more. ------------------------
'''Note to Chapter Registrar:'''
Please refer to your chapter archives including chapter meeting minutes and back issues of ''The Key'' to fill in any gaps in the above historical highlights. If your chapter archives are not complete, please research your university library, campus newspaper and yearbook archives for newsworthy information about your chapter. Please double check your work for accuracy. Contact chapter Advisory or House Board members, local Alumnae Association members, or your Province Director of Chapters for assistance.
Your efforts will ensure a complete and accurate history of your chapter for future generations to enjoy!