Difference between pages "Eta Epsilon" and "Epsilon Upsilon"

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{{Infobox Fraternity
 
{{Infobox Fraternity
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|Name= Eta Epsilon
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|Name= Epsilon Upsilon
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|GreekSymbol= HE
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|GreekSymbol= EY
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|Image= [[File:Eta_Epsilon.jpg|200px]]
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|Image= [[File:Epsilon.jpg|200px]]
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|Founded= {{start date and years ago|1999|10|23}}
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|Founded= {{start date and years ago|1873|11|25}}
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|College= [http://www.jhu.edu/ Johns Hopkins University]
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|College= [https://www.baylor.edu/ Baylor University]
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|Location= Baltimore, MD
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|Location= Waco,TX
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|Homepage= [http://chapters.kappakappagamma.org/etaepsilon/pages/welcome.php Eta Epsilon Homepage]
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|Province= Theta
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|Media= [http://wiki.kappakappagamma.org/index.php?title=Category:Eta_Epsilon Media related to Eta Epsilon Chapter]}}
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|Homepage= [https://baylor.kappa.org/ Epsilon Upsilon Website]
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|Media= [https://wiki.kkg.org/index.php?title=Category:Epsilon_Upsilon Media related to Epsilon Upsilon Chapter]}}
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'''Baylor University, established in 1845, Waco, Texas
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'''3,116 initiates (as of June 2018)'''
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----
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'''Charter Members:'''
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Kathryn Ann Bledsoe, Tamara Jane Cox, Debra Ann Edens, Suzanne Maniss Craig, Sharron Williams Cutbirth, Debra Ann Edens, Patricia Ann Jansky, Elizabeth Dorrett Keitt, Susan Grace King, Molly Grace Meredith, Sara Lynn Miller, Judith Annette Rose, Mary Douglas Seabury, Gena Lynn Smith, Karla Gay Smith, Sabrina Lynn Walker, Helen Liana Wiggins, Sharron Kay Williams and M. Donise Wilson, chapter President.
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'''Fraternity Council Members:'''
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'''Fraternity Loyalty Award Recipients:'''
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'''Fraternity Alumnae Achievement Award Recipients:'''
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'''Additional Outstanding Epsilon Upsilon Alumnae'''
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==History of Baylor University==
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The Texas Baptist Education Society then petitioned the Congress of the Republic of Texas to charter a Baptist university in the fall of 1844. Republic President Anson Jones signed the Act of Congress on Feb. 1, 1845, officially establishing Baylor University. Reverend James Huckins, the first Baptist missionary to Texas, was Baylor's first full-time fundraiser and the third founding father of the university. Although these three men are credited as being the founders of Baylor University, there are many others who worked to see our university established in Texas.
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After the University was chartered on February 1, 1845, four communities made bids to be the location: Travis, Huntsville, Shannon's Prairie and Independence. Independence was selected, and classes for preparatory students began in May 1846 with college courses offered the following June. In 1886, Baylor and Waco University consolidated to form Baylor University at Waco.
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From humble beginnings in Independence, Texas, the campus has grown to approximately 1,000 acres in Waco, Texas, annually educating more than 15,000 men and women to pursue their individual life callings.
  
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These are exciting times in the life of the University - a period in which our institution is striving to remain both a relevant institution of higher learning for the coming years and to continue to fulfill our original mission laid down by our founders: to be a Christian University "fully susceptible of enlargement and development to meet the needs of all ages to come." In a world where faith is often the casualty of a serious pursuit of academic achievement, Baylor is a special place.
  
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'''Johns Hopkins, Established in Baltimore, MD, in 1876'''
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The ability and willingness of Baylor to adapt and change to achieve continual progress can be traced throughout its history. It has endured and survived hardships, from financial difficulties, to the Great Depression, to world wars. It made a historic and critical decision to move from Independence to Waco, its current home. It divested its medical and dental schools at a time when that proved to be the most prudent decision for the success of each program. It even had the foresight and fortitude to change its very charter to insulate the institution from denominational struggles.
  
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Baylor University is a private Christian university and a nationally ranked liberal arts institution. Our rank of alumni include missionaries and pastors, heads of Fortune 500 companies, governors of Texas and professional athletes. Chartered in 1845 by the Republic of Texas through the efforts of Baptist pioneers, Baylor is the oldest continually operating university in the state.
  
  
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'''Chapter Founded in 1999 -- 44 charter members'''
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==The Early Years  (From The History of Kappa Kappa Gamma 1870–1976)==
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'''Largest Initiation!'''
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During September 22–24, 1977, Kappa Kappa Gamma Installed Epsilon Upsilon Chapter at Baylor University. Everyone knows Texas is a big state and Texans “think big,” so it was only fitting that this was the biggest Initiation yet for Kappa Kappa Gamma!
  
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Beginning on Thursday and culminating in a formal banquet on Saturday evening, a total of eight Initiation services were held and close to 400 Atheneans became Kappas.
  
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'''The Athenean Club'''
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The Athenean Club was founded in 1935 when four freshman girls felt a need for more social contact between “dorm girls” and “town girls.” Each of the four chose a friend, and the eight of them formed a sorority based on high ideals, which grew strong and loyal with approximately 1,500 initiates between 1935 and 1977. The name Athenean was suggested by their first sponsor, Sarah Lowry. It was chosen because of the intellectual qualities and cultural attainment associated with the people of ancient Athens.
  
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'''607 initiates (as of June 2016)'''
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'''Installation Weekend'''
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Serving as the installation chairman was Becky Stone Arbour, Delta Iota—LSU, with co-chairman Penny Hight Richards, Beta Xi—Texas, who made sure that out-of-town guests were housed at the Old Main Lodge in Waco, and the First Presbyterian Church was ready for the ceremonies, and the Student Union was available for the lovely formal banquet and Sunday afternoon campus reception.
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Installing officers were Jean Hess Wells, Delta Upsilon—Georgia, Fraternity President; Kay Smith Larson, Beta Pi—Washington, Director of Chapters; Gay Chuba Barry, Delta Alpha—Penn State, Director of Alumnae; Patricia Boyd Adams, Theta Province Director of Chapters; and Shirley Younkin Shreve, Theta Province Director of Alumnae. Executive Secretary, Betty Sanor Cameron,along with Jean Ebright Elin,  and Diane Miller Selby, Beta Nu—Ohio State, Editor of The Key, came from Fraternity Headquarters as the expert “set-up crew.”
  
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Kappa alumnae in Waco worked tirelessly to assure the success of this venture—bringing flowers, hammers and smiles every day. Kappas from Fort Worth, Houston, Dallas, Richardson and other areas came to help during the Initiation ceremonies. Beta Xi—Texas, served as the sister chapter for Epsilon Upsilon.
  
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Among the initiated were many relatives—mothers and daughters, younger sisters and older sisters and other relatives. In a club as old and strong as the Atheneans, it was fitting that the oldest initiate was honored—Cornelia Marschall Smith, born October 15, 1896. She entered Baylor in 1915, earned an AB, and then a MA from the University of Chicago, and her Ph.D. in 1928 from Johns Hopkins. She was a member of Mortar Board and other honoraries. Her husband was a professor of English at Baylor, and Cornelia was a professor emeritus of biology.
  
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The 17 young women who chose to become charter members of Epsilon Upsilon Chapter were initiated in the first service. A large group of former Athenean presidents as well as many other Athenean alumnae were initiated in subsequent services.
  
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'''Some of Chapter’s Outstanding Alumnae:''' (If you have chapter alumna who have received recognition in any of these three categories, please list them with the date(s) of recognition.)
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The installation banquet was held in the Barfield Room of the Student Union Building. Peggy Hicks McGregor, Gamma Phi—SMU, served as toastmistress, and Virginia Dodson Crump, the associate dean of students, provided a warm welcome. Sara Stewart, Beta Xi President and Donise Wilson, Epsilon Upsilon President, spoke as well. An inspiring speech by former Fraternity President Louise Little Barbeck, Gamma Phi—SMU, was enjoyed by all.
  
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The new chapter received many gifts and showed their appreciation by singing an original song, which seemed likely to become a Kappa favorite. Field Secretary Karen Hungerford, Mu—Butler, and Graduate Counselor Nancy Trimble, Delta Sigma—Oklahoma State, appeared every bit as excited as the  newly initiated Kappas when the final banquet song ended and all realized that this big dream was a reality—the Atheneans were Kappas in the finest sense!
  
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'''Fraternity Council Officers:'''
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At the time of Epsilon Upsilon’s founding, Baylor University was owned and operated by the Baptist General Convention of Texas, and had a student enrollment of 8,000 in its 240-acre Waco campus. The university was founded in 1845 and was chartered by the last Congress of the Republic of Texas. One of Baylor’s first benefactors was Sam Houston.
  
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==Highlights of the 1980’s==
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In the 1980’s Baylor’s freshman classes were continuously getting much larger meaning that “rush” was as well. In 1985 Baylor had an especially large freshman class with 200-300 over the typical enrollment. Consequently, almost 1200 girls registered for recruitment and 487 pledged (we took 50 girls totaling the chapter to 173). In 1987 Baylor began exploring adding another Panhellenic group to campus (at the time they had 9 organizations) because of the amount of women that were interested in Greek Life. Throughout the 80’s we had our new members do their own philanthropy event and our class of 1985 chose to visit a nursing home two different days with the KOT pledge class.
  
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Recruitment did look a bit different back in the 80’s though. In 1985 part of our recruitment consisted of taking potential new members to different Kappa Apartments – “Apartment Hops” – and themes were Halloween and Christmas. This year we also began using our computer to tabulate votes which really helped to speed up the process.
  
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'''Fraternity Loyalty Award Recipients:'''
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Some regular events we held were Kappa Dads Day, a scholarship banquet, Founder’s Day, Kite and Key with Kappa Alpha Theta, Homecoming events, Mystery Masquerade (annual Halloween/costume dance), Swingaton with Sigma Alpha Epsilon benefiting Waco Firefighters, All University Sing, and more! One annual event that they started in 1984 was a Powder Puff football game with the new members against Pi Beta Phi’s new members. The Kappa Pickers were of course around to sing at many of these events.
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We also created a clear goal each year that we really wanted to focus on. In 1985 this goal was “Unity” which stood for Understanding, No Hazing, Involvement, Time with God and Your Sisters. Each officer incorporated this theme into their goals for her office and committee. In 1987 we decided to have the goal Kappa Kommittment each month. Every month Kappa had a new commitment to strive towards (Scholarship, Pledges, Friendship, etc), but in the fall of this year we received a letter from headquarters with concerns regarding our scholarship standing and we then switched all of our focus to overcoming this dilemma.
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==Highlights of the 1990’s==
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Epsilon Upsilon started out the 1990’s wanting to be remembered for our achievement in philanthropy in 1991. During this year we sponsored the all university walk-a-thon which let every sorority enter and raise money for their individual charities. Among other service projects were visits to nursing homes, the Methodist Home and serving dinner at the Salvation Army. In 1991 we also received the Most Improved Chapter awards at the Kappa Kappa Gamma Convention. This year our Chapter President was also named Baylor Homecoming Queen!
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In the early 90’s one of our biggest challenges as a chapter (which continued on from the 80’s) was scholarship. We continued to work on trying to raise our chapter GPA through study halls for different GPA categories, a reward system to encourage others, and raising our grade requirement during recruitment. By 1995 we had raised our GPA above the Kappa national average, but we didn’t want to just maintain this so we continued to add new ways for members of our chapter to focus on scholarship together.
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With our scholarship improvements throughout the early 90’s, the late 90’s we realized we needed to start focusing more on ways to increase fraternity education and ritual. We did this through short facts during chapter meeting and weekly information sessions. We even gave our entire chapter pre-tests and post-tests in order to measure the increase in knowledge.
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Epsilon Upsilon continued to stay involved on the Baylor campus in the 90’s – participating in All-University Sing, Pigskin, Greek Week, intramurals and more. In 1993 we also started an annual Easter Egg Hunt for faculty and alumni children which proved to be a big success.
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We also consistently focus on bonding with our sisters and one way we did so was through an annual fall chapter retreat. In 1994 we escaped to Camp Balcones Springs in Marble Falls on beautiful Lake Travis. It was a wonderful weekend for the entire chapter to relax, bond, share and get to spend quality time together. One thing we did during this retreat was a “pair share” time. This is a time when every Kappa in the chapter is paried with another Kappa they do not know very well and get a chance to talk and then share with the chapter what their learned about their sister.
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Prayer has consistently been important to us at Epsilon Upsilon and in anticipation of rush in 1996 we implemented a 24-hour day of prayer. Each chapter member signed up for a time slot and continually prayed for our chapter throughout the 24 hours.
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==Highlights of the 2000’s==
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Epsilon Upsilon celebrated the millennium with a special “It’s a New Year In Kappa” theme on the first day of recruitment, which began January 3, 2000. The slide show presentation ended with grand fireworks giving all present the feeling of ringing in the new millennium together. A monetary gift was given to the Panhellenic Building Fund to celebrate the ground breaking of the Stacy Riddle Panhellenic Forum.
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In the 2000’s Epsilon Upsilon continued our on-going support of their community – local charities, university-wide events, and other campus organizations alike. We regularly participated in and looked forward to the Kappa Omega Tau Fishery which is a unique service project that allowed us to serve the mentally and physically handicapped individuals in Waco. We also continued our annual Easter Egg Hunt tradition for the community. Back in 1999 we started a new philanthropy – Kappa Klassic Golf Tournament. This tournament continued throughout the 2000’s and we raised significant amounts of money for charity. We also began a partnership with a local elementary school (Parkdale Elementary) where we not only tutor the children, but members also have the opportunity to sign up for Parkdale Pen Pal.
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We continued to have many event such as Kappa Country, Kappa Krush, and Kappa Krawfish Boil. While many events we have are with other members of Greek Life at Epsilon Upsilon “Kappa Backs the Bears” so we had many fun take-a-dates and mixers with the football, basketball, and baseball teams.
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Homecoming is consistently important at Baylor and to us in Epsilon Upsilon. Throughout the 2000’s there were multiple times that a member was elected Homecoming Queen and we are always very involved with all the activities. In 2008 the Homecoming theme was “Hanzel and Gretel” and we built a fantastic homecoming float titled “Brew Mizzou”.
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As it was in the early 90’s, the early 2000’s were a time for us to focus on strengthening our chapter GPA. We worked hard to update Kappa test files and provide members with tutoring so that older and younger members within the same fields of study could pair and help each other. In 2006 this proved to be very helpful in that our chapter GPA rose from sixth out of nine sororities to fourth out of nine. In 2008 our chapter was placed on a letter of warning from the fraternity which created many changes within our chapter, but also united us to work together to comply with the recommended areas of improvement.
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Prayer continued to be an important aspect our chapter throughout the 2000’s and especially during the time of September 11, 2001. Throughout the days following the tragedy, Baylor conducted several prayer services. Another University-wide action was a moment of silence the next day at 12:00 noon, so that every student and professor could take to opportunity to reflect and pray for the victims and their families. Our Kappa chapter also held a prayer session for us to unite and support those in need.
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==Highlights of 2012==
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Two Thousand Twelve was an outstanding year for the Epsilon Upsilon chapter. Last January, we had another successful recruitment and were blessed with an incredible new member class. Our Sing chairs created a breath-taking first place masquerade act, which will now appear in Pigskin Review.
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The event chairs planned date dashes, the annual Sapphire Ball, pledge dance, and a take-a-date. There was our spring Swing-a-thon and afternoons spent at Parkdale Elementary School serving as mentors to second graders. The chapter participated in established traditions, such as organizing the 62nd Annual All-University Baylor Beauty Style Show and arranging an Easter egg hunt for children of faculty, but we created new traditions as well.
  
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To celebrate our founding sisterhood, we hosted the first Late Night at Monmouth Pancake Breakfast with the ladies of Pi Beta Phi. Together, we raised $2,960 for charity water, a non-profit organization that seeks to bring clean and safe drinking water to those in developing countries.
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Spring finals arrived too quickly, but summer did not bring the end to Epsilon Upsilon’s involvement. A few members of our Chapter Council participated in the Fraternity’s 69th Biennial Convention in Jacksonville, Florida. We attended seminars, workshops, and educational events, as well as enjoyed spending time with alumnae, advisers, and Kappas from around the world. Together, members studied abroad, interned across the country, and took summer classes. Regardless if we are meeting each week, it is never hard to find a Kappa!
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Before we knew it, August arrived, and summer came to an end. We started the year with Greek Week events, intramurals, and an All-American themed crush. Even amidst the chaos that fall semester brings, it is truly wonderful to see our chapter come together to celebrate both Kappa and Baylor traditions. The seniors have enjoyed “seniors only” social events, while our new members have continued to learn pledge songs for recruitment.
  
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We honored Founders Day with our Waco Alumnae Association. Partaking in our ritual together was a great reminder that Kappa truly is for a lifetime. We got to know each other’s families at our lovely Parents’ Weekend luncheon. Epsilon Upsilon has continued to volunteer weekly at Parkdale, held the fall Swing-a-thon, hosted a Kendra Scott Jewelry Trunk Show benefiting Reading is Fundamental, organized a Halloween carnival at Compassion Ministries, and kicked off our annual book drive. Nights have been spent with the men of Alpha Tau Omega at our float site and dancing with the Kappa Sigmas at Pigskin practice. Both of these ventures were very successful by winning Judge’s Choice Award for float and performing our First Place act in Pigskin.
  
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'''Fraternity Alumnae Achievement Award Recipients:'''
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We are gearing up for another exciting recruitment, getting to know many potential new members and legacies. We ended the semester with the Kappa Pickers performing at multiple functions. Our final Kappa event for the semester was Kappa Kountry in which we two-stepped the night away!
  
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There have been many recent changes on the Baylor campus during this year. Baylor University is building a new stadium that will be on campus. The stadium will not be completed until the 2014 season. Baylor is also building a new dormitory that should be ready for for the incoming freshman. Multiple projects are going on around Baylor University at all time.
  
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==Highlights of 2013==
  
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Two Thousand Thirteen was another great year for the Epsilon Upsilon chapter. In January, we had a wonderful recruitment and were able to take an incredible new member class. The new member class was initiated and has been a blessing to the whole chapter. Our Sing chairs created an imaginative act called Topsy Turvy which was performed for Baylor University. The social chairs planned date dashes, our Sapphire Ball, pledge dance, and a take-a-date. Our spring Swing-a-thon and afternoons spent at Parkdale Elementary School allowed our chapter to give back to our community. The chapter participated in many established traditions, such as the 63rd Annual All-University Baylor Beauty Style Show and an Easter egg hunt for children of faculty. Late Night at Monmouth Pancake Breakfast was a success for the second year where we raised money for charity water, a non-profit organization that seeks to bring clean and safe drinking water to those in developing countries.
  
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==Johns Hopkins University==
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The spring semester came to an end, but summer did not bring a pause to Epsilon Upsilon’s involvement. Our chapter was able to organize a mission trip to Antigua, Guatemala, which a handful of members participated in. Those members served the people of Guatemala with loving hearts and were able to contribute much more than time and money during their stay there. We attended seminars, workshops, and educational events, as well as enjoyed spending time with alumnae, advisors, and Kappas from around the world. Together, members studied abroad, interned across the country, went on mission trips and took summer classes at Baylor.
  
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The Johns Hopkins University was the first university in the Western Hemisphere founded on the model of the European research institution. Named for its initial benefactor, Baltimore merchant Johns Hopkins, the university enrolls nearly 20,000 full- and part-time students on campuses in Baltimore, Maryland; Montgomery, Maryland; Washington, D.C.; China; and Italy. The Baltimore campus – Homewood – has more than 4,700 full-time undergraduates in two schools, the Krieger School of Arts and Sciences and the Whiting School of Engineering. Johns Hopkins is also well known for its School of Medicine and Bloomberg School of Public Health.  
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Before we knew it, August arrived, and summer came to an end. We started the year with Greek Week events, Welcome Week events, a take-a-date, and intramurals. Our chapter found the time to celebrate Baylor and Kappa traditions in the fall semester despite our busy schedules. The seniors enjoyed “seniors only” social events, while our new members continued to learn pledge songs for recruitment. We honored Founders Day with our Waco Alumnae Association. Partaking in our ritual together was a great reminder that Kappa truly is for a lifetime. We paired with several fraternities at football games to have tailgates before the games. We got to know each other’s families at our lovely Parents’ Weekend brunch.  
  
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From The Key, Summer 1999; figures updated October 2012 [http://webapps.jhu.edu/jhuniverse/information_about_hopkins/about_jhu/facts_at_a_glance/index.cfm]
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Epsilon Upsilon has continued to volunteer weekly at Parkdale Elementary School, hosted a Kendra Scott Jewelry Trunk Show benefiting Reading is Fundamental, and organized a Halloween carnival at Compassion Ministries. Our chapter created a new event on campus, Kappa Karnival, which was a great success. Nights were spent working with the men of Alpha Tau Omega at our float site for the homecoming parade. The Kappa Pickers performed at many events including Christmas on 5th. We just had another successful recruitment and are preparing to initiate our 89 new members!
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Baylor University’s new football stadium is close to being finished. There is construction on it constantly and it should be open for the fall 2014 football season. The new dormitories that opened this past fall on campus have been a great blessing to the freshmen this year. Baylor is also currently preparing to build a new business school on campus.
  
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===Greek Life at Johns Hopkins University===
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==Highlights of 2014==
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Johns Hopkins University's Greek system includes four councils: The Panhellenic Association (PHA), the Interfraternity Council (IFC), Multicultural Greek Council (MGC), and the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC). In Spring 2012 there were over 1,200 Greeks at Johns Hopkins (approximately 25% of the undergraduate student population). [http://studentaffairs.jhu.edu/FSL/]
 
  
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The university does not provide Greek housing to any fraternities or sororities, though many fraternities maintain private residences off-campus.
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Two Thousand Fourteen was an outstanding year for the Epsilon Upsilon chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma. Last January, we had another successful recruitment and were blessed with an incredible new member class. Our Sing chairs worked really hard to create a great Sing Act called “Running Wild”, which was shown in Pigskin Review in the Fall of 2014. The social chairs planned date dashes, the annual Sapphire Ball, pledge dance, and a take-a-date. There was our Spring Swing-a-thon where we raised and donated money to a local halfway house in Waco, Compassion Ministries. Last Spring was also full of many afternoons spent at Parkdale Elementary School serving as mentors to second graders. The chapter participated in established traditions, such as organizing the Annual All-University Baylor Beauty Style Show and arranging an Easter egg hunt for children of faculty, but we created new traditions as well.  
  
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Recruitment at Johns Hopkins is deferred and typically takes place in early February.
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Spring finals arrived too quickly, but summer did not bring the end to Epsilon Upsilon’s involvement. A few members of our Chapter Council participated in the Fraternity’s Convention in Houston, Texas. We attended seminars, workshops, and educational events, as well as enjoyed spending time with alumnae, advisors, and Kappas from around the world. Together, members studied abroad, interned across the country, and took summer classes. Regardless if we are meeting each week, it is never hard to find a Kappa!
  
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Before we knew it, August arrived, and summer came to an end. We started the year with Greek Week events, intramurals, and a dodgeball crush event. Even amidst the chaos that Fall semester brings, it is truly wonderful to see our chapter come together to celebrate both Kappa and Baylor traditions. The seniors have enjoyed “seniors only” social events, while our new members have continued to learn pledge songs for recruitment. We honored Founders Day at a local country club with our Waco Alumnae Association. Partaking in our ritual together was a great reminder that Kappa truly is for a lifetime. We got to know each other’s families at our lovely Family Weekend luncheon. Epsilon Upsilon has continued to volunteer weekly at Parkdale, held the Fall Swing-a-thon benefitting a local animal shelter in Waco, Texas; Fuzzy Friends, organized a Halloween carnival at Compassion Ministries, volunteered at the Parkdale Halloween carnival and kicked off our annual book drive. Nights have been spent with the men of Phi Kappa Chi at our float site, where we ending up winning 1st place out of all the Homecoming Floats. We also performed “Running Wild” in Pigskin Review. We also hosted our second Kappa Karnival this year, it was very successful. Throughout the Fall we spent time gearing up for another exciting recruitment, getting to know many potential new members and legacies. We ended the semester with the Kappa Pickers performing at multiple functions.
  
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<b>Panhellenic Association</b>
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Our Campus has a new football stadium, McLane stadium. It is beautifully designed. Baylor is currently building a new Business School, which will be opening in Fall 2015. There are also many other changes going on in the growing Baylor community. The nature of our chapter is very positive, growing, graceful, friendly, loyal, and loving. There is a strong focus on RIF, supporting other chapters, including all Kappa chapter members, and University related events (SING, Homecoming Float, Steppin Out, Pigskin etc.).
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* Alpha Phi, Zeta Omicron Chapter (Chartered 1982)
 
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* Kappa Kappa Gamma, Eta Epsilon Chapter (Chartered 1999)
 
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* Phi Mu, Gamma Tau Chapter (Chartered 1982)
 
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* Pi Beta Phi, Maryland Gamma Chapter (Chartered 2010)
 
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* Delta Gamma, Zeta Kappa Chapter (Chartered 1990, Closed 1995)
 
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* Kappa Alpha Theta, Zeta Chi Chapter (Chartered 1997, Closed 2009, Reestablished 2013)
 
  
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We hold chapter meetings in our Kappa suite in the Stacy Riddle Panhellenic Forum. This suite is rented.
  
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<b>Inter-Fraternity Council</b>
 
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* Alpha Delta Phi
 
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* Alpha Epsilon Pi
 
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* Beta Theta Pi
 
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* Lambda Phi Epsilon
 
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* Phi Delta Theta
 
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* Phi Gamma Delta
 
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* Phi Iota Alpha
 
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* Phi Kappa Psi
 
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* Sigma Chi
 
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* Sigma Phi Epsilon
 
  
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==Highlights of 2015==
  
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<b>Multicultural Greek Council</b>
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Two Thousand Fifteen was an outstanding year for the Epsilon Upsilon chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma. Last January, we had another successful recruitment and were blessed with an incredible new member class. Our Sing chairs worked really hard to create a great Sing Act called “Weird Science”, which was shown in Pigskin Review in the Fall of 2015. The social chairs planned date dashes, the annual Sapphire Ball, pledge dance, and a take-a-date. There was our Spring Swing-a-thon where we raised and donated money to the Waco Humane Society Last Spring was also full of many afternoons spent at Parkdale Elementary School serving as mentors to second graders. In the Spring of 2015, our chapter won an award for partner of the year (2014-2015) for Waco ISD. The chapter participated in established traditions, such as organizing the Annual All-University Baylor Beauty Style Show and arranging an Easter egg hunt for children of faculty. Spring finals arrived too quickly, but summer did not bring the end to Epsilon Upsilon’s involvement. Together, members studied abroad, interned across the country, and took summer classes. Regardless if we are meeting each week, it is never hard to find a Kappa! Before we knew it, August arrived, and summer came to an end. We started the year with Greek Week events, intramurals, and a dodgeball crush event on campus. Even amidst the chaos that Fall semester brings, it is truly wonderful to see our chapter come together to celebrate both Kappa and Baylor traditions. The seniors have enjoyed “seniors only” social events, while our new members have continued to learn pledge songs for recruitment. We honored Founders Day at McLane Stadium with our Waco Alumnae Association. Our chapter was so excited to celebrate the 145th year. Partaking in our ritual together was a great reminder that Kappa truly is for a lifetime. Epsilon Upsilon has continued to volunteer weekly at Parkdale, held the Fall Swing-a-thon benefiting the Waco Humane Society, volunteered at the Parkdale Halloween carnival and kicked off our annual book drive. Nights approaching Homecoming weekend were spent with the men of Phi Kappa Chi at our float site. Kappa had a Junior member, Sydney Taylor,  selected as a Homecoming Princess this year. We also performed “Weird Science” in Pigskin Review Homecoming weekend. We hosted our third Kappa Karnival this year, it was very successful. Throughout the Fall we spent time gearing up for another exciting recruitment, getting to know many potential new members and legacies. We ended the semester with the Kappa Pickers performing at multiple functions.
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* alpha Kappa Delta Phi
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Baylor built a new Business School, which opened Fall 2015, it is very nice. There are also many other changes going on in the growing Baylor community. The nature of our chapter is very positive, growing, graceful, friendly, loyal, and loving. There is a strong focus on RIF, supporting other chapters, including all Kappa chapter members, and University related events (SING, Homecoming Float, Steppin Out, Pigskin etc.).
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* Delta Xi Phi
 
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* Iota Nu Delta
 
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* Sigma Omicron Pi
 
  
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Chapter Philanthropy:
  
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<b>National Pan-Hellenic Council</b>
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Our chapter supports RIF, Kappa Foundation, Parkdale Elementary, Compassion Ministries, Waco Humane Society, and Hannah’s House.
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* Alpha Kappa Alpha
 
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* Alpha Phi Alpha
 
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* Sigma Gamma Rho
 
  
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==Highlights of the 1990s==
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We have supported and worked with Parkdale Elementary and Compassion ministries in years past and want to continue that relationship with both of them. We started supporting Waco Humane Society and Hannah’s House more recently. There is a huge stray animal problem in Waco and our local humane society helps curb that issue. Our chapter thinks it’s really important to help the community of Waco in that aspect. Hannah’s House is a nonprofit organization created to raise funds to build a children’s village with 8 homes in Zambia through Family Legacy in honor of Hannah Butler, a member of our chapter who recently passed. She was such a joy and so loving, and the village will be built in her honor once the funds are received.
  
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Eta Epsilon Colony was established at Johns Hopkins University, April 9-11, 1999. The colonization/recruitment process resulted in 44 enthusiastic new members. Initiation of new members and installation of the chapter took place October 22-24, 1999. Greek life at Hopkins consisted of eleven fraternities and four NPC sororities at the time. The biggest challenge of 1999 was acceptance by other sororities and fraternities. By participating in all Panhellenic events and joining the Fraternity League's intramural volleyball games (the first girls' Greek organization to participate in the league), the chapter not only received acceptance as a Greek organization but also respect, both as individual women and an organization.
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==Highlights of 2016==
  
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Membership was a concern as well. The chapter began fall semester with 29 new members and held Continuous Open Bidding (COB), gaining two more members.
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January: 9- Bid Day: 96 girls pledged Kappa
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29- Social Event: Sapphire Ball Formal
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30- New Member Luncheon with Waco Alumni
  
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==Highlights of 2000-2010==
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February 6-Participated in KOT Fishery: A philanthropy event; 9- Academic Excellence Dinner in the Kappa Room
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13- Initiated 96 members into Kappa; Initiation luncheon at The Baylor Club
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27- Competed in All-University Sing: Our act "Come Dance with Me" was performed with Kappa Sigma and advanced to Pigskin.
  
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<b>Academic Year 2001-2002</b>
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March 23- Kappa put on our Annual Easter Egg Hunt for Faculty and Staff's kids
  
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From chapter’s History Report: The Johns Hopkins University, and the new Eta Epsilon chapter, recognized the tragedies of Sept. 11, 2001, by holding a candle light vigil on the Arts and Sciences Quad. Our chapter consists of 40 sisters, many of whom sit on chapter council. Our small size presents difficulty trying to accomplish all the activities and tasks necessary for a well rounded chapter.
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April 3- Legacy Tea; 9- Baylor's Steppin Out: University Philanthropy Event; 10- Mom's Day with Practically Picasso in the Kappa Room; 16-Crawfish Boil Fundraiser with Kappa Sigma; 19- Kappa hosted our annual Event- Baylor Beauty; 21- Social Event: Take-A-Date Game night in Waco; 27- Kappa and Chi Omega hosted a faculty appreciation event: Cupcakes with Chi O
  
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<b>Academic Year 2004-2005</b>
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May 2- Luncheon at Parkdale Elementary: Our Philanthropic Partner; 15-24: Mission trip to Antigua, Guatemala
  
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By 2004, our fifth year as a chapter, we saw an increased presence in the involvement in the Johns Hopkins community. Campus events included a smores barbecue, and a Halloween candy giveaway. Eta Epsilon had the largest number of sisters participating in freshman orientation. Sisters were involved as executive staff, student advisers, parent ambassadors and orientation assistants. Additionally, the Panhellenic Council recognized Eta Epsilon as having the highest GPA of all sororities and fraternities on campus.
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August 26- Recruitment Event: Late Night at the SLC
  
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Following the tragic death of a brother of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, Eta Epsilon showed its support to the fraternity by sending irises and a card to their house as well as providing emotional support to the brothers and friends of the lost student.
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October 1- Social Event: Take-A-Date to the Texas State Fair; 13-15: Homecoming Weekend: Kappa had 5 members nominated for Homecoming Court, Created and Showcased a float built with Phi Kappa Chi, and performed "Come Dance with Me" at Pigskin
  
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Dissatisfied with Recruitment in 2004, more time was spent planning for Recruitment 2005, with help from the Advisory Board who held workshops discussing conversation skills, body language and smooth transitions, in order to boost the chapter's confidence in recruitment abilities. In the Spring of 2006 we gained one of our largest classes, 21 new sisters. That fall we won our campus wide Greek Week contest for sororities. Other events we participated in were Relay for Life, raising money for cancer, reading books to children. Our Waffle House philanthropy raised more than $300.
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November 4-Philanthropy Event: Reading is Key at Parkdale; 5- Social Event: Tailgate with Sigma Chi;16- Philanthropy Event: Monmouth with Pi Phi; 17- Kappa and ADPi Worship Night; 18- Social Event: Dad's Day; 30- Kappa Social Event: Kappa Christmas
  
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<b>Academic Year 2005-2006</b>
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This semester we have also implemented "Key Girl of the Week" which is a way to recognize members of our chapter who have gone out of their way to support other members. A member is nominated each week and then our VPS picks the winner who gets to wear a KKG necklace for the week.
  
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2006 saw us active in a clean-up project in the Wyman Park Dell near campus, and we received a grant to help us purchase playground equipment for a Baltimore city playground.
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Taylor Adams, our president during 2015, won the Greek Leader of the Year award.
  
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<b>Academic Year 2006-2007</b>
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We received the silver award for our HHR Binder. At convention, we received awards for PR and Risk Management.
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Our chapter hosted a Trunk Show this year that featured work from our members. There were jewelry items, art, flower arrangements and more that all benefited RIF. We also partnered with Pi Phi again this semester to celebrate Monmouth with a pancake dinner. Last spring, we hosted a crawfish boil with Kappa Sigma and the proceeds went to RIF.
  
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A constant struggle is recruiting enough members. We are the smallest sorority on campus and our small size is often frowned upon by girls going through recruitment who want to join a larger sorority. We welcome Leadership Consultant visits to help before and after recruitment but the challenge continues. In Spring 2007, the chapter welcomed 9 women through formal recruitment and participated in Spring COB to bring the new member class to 15 women.  
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Baylor has undertaken some beneficial changes during the last year. The biggest one is Title IX awareness across campus and especially for Panhellenic women. Baylor has provided multiple speakers and an online course to bring awareness to this issue. Although Title IX coordinators have changed, Baylor is still promoting awareness and safety for the issue. Another big issue in Panhellenic is that are need of a new chapter on campus to accommodate all the girls who go through recruitment. This year we started a Panhellenic philanthropy in order to show our support for other chapters and Baylor Panhellenic. Circle of Sisterhood, the philanthropy, has had several events throughout the semester that our chapter has attended.
  
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<b>Academic Year 2007-2008</b>
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Our chapter raises money for Reading is Fundamental. However each week we work directly with Parkdale Elementary, a local elementary school. Each week members go into second grade classrooms and read with the students.
  
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In Fall 2007 the chapter welcomed a new member class of 6 women through Fall COB. In Spring 2008 we welcomed our largest new member class yet, 24 women. Twelve new members came from formal recruitment and an additional twelve were added through Spring COB.
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This year we continued our partnership with Parkdale Elementary because our existing relationship has proved very effective. Our members love going each week and it's really fun to continue working with the same teachers and occasionally seeing some of the kids you've worked with before. We wanted to make sure we continue to establish a relationship with the Waco community.  
  
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<b>Academic Year 2008-2009</b>
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Our chapter holds meetings in the Stacy Riddle Panhellenic Forum in our own Kappa room . 
  
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In Fall 2008 the chapter welcomed an additional 6 women through Fall COB. That year we also were recognized as Greek Week Champions of 2008, and we won the Panhellenic Award at the Biennial Convention.
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We recommend Tommye Lou Davis for the Oral History Project
  
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In Spring 2009 the chapter welcomed a new member class of 33 women, 25 of whom were recruited through formal recruitment (8 were added through Spring COB).
 
  
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<b>Academic Year 2009-2010</b>
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==Highlights of 2017==
  
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In Fall 2009, an additional 9 new members were welcomed through Fall COB. We enjoyed a sisterhood retreat at Terrapin Adventures where we did rope courses, a giant swing and zipline, creating a unique bonding experience before the start of the school year.
 
  
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Finally, in Spring 2010, the chapter saw the largest expansion of the chapter in our short history with a new member class of 60, nearly doubling the chapter size and surpassing quota for the first time in the chapter's history. Fifty-four of these women were recruited through formal recruitment and 6 were added through Spring COB. The large increase in the size of the new member class can be attributed to both an increase in quota after the closing of another Panhellenic chapter, and the extraordinary efforts of the Kappa sisters to shine during recruitment.  
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January 6- Bid Day
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January 27- Sapphire Ball
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February 11- Initiation
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February 16-18; 23-35- Competed in All-University sing: our act "Fountain of Youth" was performed
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February 21- Academic Excellence Dinner
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March 1- New Member Dance
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April 6- Baylor Kappa holds the annual easter egg hunt on Baylor University's campus in honor for the faculty and staff and their children. We have an egg hunt, snacks, and pictures with an Easter Bunny.
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April 2- Moms day: Pop-up shop
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April 7- Take-A-Date: Oasis in Austin, TX
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April 9- Legacy Tea in the Kappa room for PNM Baylor Legacies
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April 11- Kappa hosted the 66th Baylor Beauty Charity Style Show, where ladies nominated campus wide competed against each other to be named baylor beauty. All ticket proceeds went to our philanthropy.
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April 13 - For the first time, we have one of our own selected to serve as a Leadership Consultant, Sydney Taylor.
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April 28- Parkdale Partner Lunch
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May 14-21: Baylor Kappa goes on mission trip to Antigua, Guatemala
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August 25- Recruitment Event: Late Night at the SLC: all university event for PNMs that are interested in recruitment
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September 29- Semi-Formal
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October 10- Founders Day including scholarship recognition of the chapters members.
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October 16- Spaghetti Not So Formal with ATO; an all university event and proceeds go to our philanthropy
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October 19-21- Homecoming Weekend: Kappa had members nominated for Homecoming Court. Created and showcased our 1st place float, and performed our sing act in Pigskin.
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October 28- Dads Day
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November 8- Kappa Karnival is an all university event benefiting Reading is Fundamental. We have raffle prizes, free dessert, bounce houses, and carnival themed booths run by fraternities.
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November 10- Reading is Key event at Parkdale Elementary
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December 1- Social Event: Take-A-Date to the exhibit "ICE!" at the Gaylord Texan Hotel
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Describe the recent changes on your campus and describe the overall nature of your chapter.
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The nature of our chapter is very friendly, very diverse yet we are all so alike and the personality of the chapter is fun and unique but responsible.
  
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During Relay for Life, we were the largest fundraiser at Johns Hopkins. At Convention in Phoenix Eta Epsilon received the Recruitment award and honorable mention for Academic Excellence, Standards, Panhellenic, Finance and Greatest Improved Chapter. At Johns Hopkins we earned recognition for earning the highest GPA of all sororities with a 3.51.
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Chapter Philanthropy:
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What organization(s) has your chapter historically/traditionally raised money for, or donated hours to, in your community?
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Our chapter raises money for Reading is Fundamental. However each week we work directly with Parkdale Elementary, a local elementary school. Each week members go into kindergarten grade classrooms and read with the students.
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Why did your chapter choose this organization(s) to support?
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This year we continued our partnership with Parkdale Elementary because our existing relationship has proved very effective. Our members love going each week and it's really fun to continue working with the same teachers and occasionally seeing some of the kids you've worked with before. We wanted to make sure we continue to establish a relationship with the Waco community.
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Chapter Facility:
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In what kind of a facility does your chapter meet? Please attach a clear photo of where you typically hold chapter meetings – whether in a classroom, chapter house or elsewhere.
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Our chapter holds meetings in the Stacy Riddle Panhellenic Forum in our own Kappa room
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Oral History
  
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<b>Academic Year 2010-2011</b>
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Tommye Lou Davis
  
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We celebrated our 10th birthday in the fall, an important milestone, and welcomed Pi Beta Phi to our campus. Pi Beta Phi colonized in Fall 2010 with 66 charter members.
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==Highlights of 2018==
  
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Fall 2010 marked the first time in many years that Eta Epsilon chapter did not participate in Continuous Open Bidding, as the chapter had grown sufficiently that this measure was not necessary. The chapter has not participated in Fall COB since.
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January 7- Bid Day: 97 girls pledged Kappa
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27- Social Event: Sapphire Ball Formal
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February 4- Participated in KOT Fishery: A philanthropy event
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7- Academic Excellence Dinner in the Kappa Room
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10- Initiated 97 girls into Kappa
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17- Competed in All-University Sing: "Carwash" was performed and received 2nd place and a bid to Pigskin
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March 16- Social Event: New Member Dance
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25- Take-a-Date: Dallas Mavericks Basketball Game
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28- Kappa hosted annual Easter Egg Hunt for faculty and staff children
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pril 7- Baylor's Steppin Out- University Philanthropy Event 8- Legacy Tea 11- Kappa hosted annual event: Baylor Beauty
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12- Kappa and Chi Omega hosted a faculty appreciation event: Cupcakes with Chi O
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22- Mom's Day May
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27- Mission trip to Antigua, Guatemala
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August 24- Recruitment Event: Late Night at the SLC
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October 8- Social Event: Dad's Day
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24- Celebrated Founder's Day with Alumni at the Baylor Club
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27- Take-a-Date: Austin Park in Austin, Texas
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November 2-4: Homecoming Weekend: Kappa had 2 members nominated for Homecoming Court, Created and showcased a float built with Alpha Tau Omega, and performed "Carwash" at Pigskin Revue
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8- Kappa Karnival: All-University Event raising money for Reading is Fundamental
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10- Baylor's Steppin Out: University Philanthropy Event
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16- Philanthropy Event: Reading is Key event at Parkdale Elementary 
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December 1- Social Event: Kappa Kristmas Semi-formal This semester we implemented "Bravo" which recognizes a member each week
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who has gone above and beyond in their way to support fellow members.
  
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With the addition of Pi Beta Phi all chapters' recruitment quotas were lowered to 35 women, allowing for smaller and more closely-knit new member classes. In Spring 2011 Kappa Kappa Gamma welcomed the largest new member class of any Panhellenic chapter on campus, 41 women. The chapter did not participate in Spring or Fall COB.
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At convention, we received awards for PR and Risk Management. Our chapter hosted Outdoor Voices for a pop-up shop to raise money for Reading is Fundamental.
  
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At Province Meeting in March we were awarded the Risk Management award for our dedication to new risk policies and procedures. In April, a Kappa Trainer, Julie Martin Magnis, George Washington, Museums Chairman for the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation, presented ritual workshops prior to initiation.
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Baylor has undertaken several changes in the Greek community this year. Through this election of Alpha Phi to join Baylor Panhellenic the chapter has had the opportunity to strengthen unity with other chapters. Epsilon Upsilon looks forward to officially welcoming Alpha Phi to Baylor's campus this spring and working to encourage the growth of their chapter. The nature of the chapter is positive and excited for this season of change and the idea of building a stronger unity with other old and new chapters on Baylor's campus.
  
  
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Our chapter supports Reading is Fundamental but works weekly with Parkdale Elementary.This year we continued our partnership with Parkdale Elementary because our existing relationship has proved very effective. Our members love going each week and it's really fun
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to continue working with the same teachers and occasionally seeing some of the kids you've worked with before. We wanted to make sure we continue to establish a relationship with the Waco community. This provides the chapter with the opportunity to raise funds for Reading is Fundamental but also an opportunity to work weekly with local students who need extra assistance in reading.
  
  
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'''Philanthropy:'''
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Our chapter meets in the The Stacy Riddle Panhellenic Forum in our own Kappa room.
  
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Bracelet sale to benefit the Kenya water project, raising $400, Relay for Life, Waffle House to fund Kappa causes, purchasing playground equipment for a city playground. Raised $1,000 at our Barnes and Noble charity book fair to promote literacy and hosted a  children's section at the University Spring Fair.
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Oral History
  
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'''Chapter Convention Awards:'''
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Tommye Lou Davis
  
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2008 Recruitment Award
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Rene Taylor Beth Musgraves
  
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==Highlights of 2011-2020==
 
  
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==Highlights of 2011==
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==Highlights of 2019==
  
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A new tradition was begun in 2011 when we held our first annual Monmouth Duo picnic with the recently colonized Maryland Gamma chapter of Pi Beta Phi, wearing tee shirts especially designed with an interlacing Kappa key and Pi Phi arrow on the back. We continued to excel in academics with the top campus GPA of 3.45.
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January  12- Bid Day: 98 girls pledged Kappa
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February 1  - Social Event: Sapphire Ball Formal
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February 2- Social Event: Sapphire Ball Formal Participated in KOT Fishery: A philanthropy event
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5- Academic Excellence Dinner in the Kappa Room
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15- Initiated 97 girls into Kappa
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21- Competed in All-University Sing: "Come Fly With Me" was performed and received a bid to Pigskin
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March    16- Social Event: New Member Dance
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23- Take-a-Date: Dallas Mavericks Basketball Game 
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28Kappa hosted annual Easter Egg Hunt for faculty and staff children
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April      6- Baylor's Steppin Out- University Philanthropy Event
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7- Legacy Tea       
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11- Kappa hosted annual event: Baylor Beauty             
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18- Kappa and Chi Omega hosted a faculty appreciation event: Cupcakes with Chi O 
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21- Mom's Day
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May      27- Mission trip to Antigua, Guatemala 
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August  24- Recruitment Event: Late Night at the SLC
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October 12- Social Event: Dad's Day
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15- Celebrated Founder's Day with Alumni at the Baylor Club
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November 1-3: Homecoming Weekend: Kappa had 2 members nominated for Homecoming Court, Created and showcased a float built with Alpha Tau Omega which won "Best in Class," and performed "Come Fly With Me" at Pigskin Revue
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8- Social Event: Winter Semi Formal           
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19- Kappa Karnival: All-University Event raising money for Reading is Fundamental
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22- Philanthropy Event: Reading is Key event at Parkdale Elementary
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December 1- Social Event: Kappa Kristmas Semi-formal
  
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In Spring 2012 the chapter continued to excel in recruitment, surpassing quota of 45 by welcoming 47 new members.
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This semester we implemented "Kisses" which is a game we will play at the end of chapter where 3 people are given Hershey's kisses and they pass them along to someone who made them happy that week or they think is great.  .  
  
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==Highlights of 2012==
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Our chapter hosted Outdoor Voices for a pop-up shop to raise money for Reading is Fundamental.
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The nature of the chapter is positive and excited for this season of change and the
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idea of building a stronger unity with other old and new chapters on Baylor's campus.
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Chapter Philanthropy
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Reading is Fundamental but works weekly with Parkdale Elementary
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This year we continued our partnership with Parkdale Elementary because our existing
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relationship has proved very effective. Our members love going each week and it's really fun
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to continue working with the same teachers and occasionally seeing some of the kids you've
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worked with before. We wanted to make sure we continue to establish a relationship with
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the Waco community. This provides the chapter with the opportunity to raise funds for
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Reading is Fundamental but also an opportunity to work weekly with local students who
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need extra assistance in reading.
  
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The sisters of Eta Epsilon chapter began the year with recruitment in February and welcomed the Chi new member class shortly afterwards. With the addition of the Chi class the chapter grew to approximately 130 active members. Following recruitment the sisters engaged in a number of social activities including sisterhood bonding events for the new members, three date parties, and send off luncheon for the soon to be graduating seniors. The luncheon provided the perfect time for the sisters to reflect on the many ways being a Kappa had enriched their university experience. In addition the sisters continued their academic and philanthropic pursuits. The chapter’s combined GPA for the spring semester was a 3.41. Spring philanthropy included continued work at Barclay elementary school as well as Kappa participation in events such a Dance Marathon and Relay for Life.  
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Chapter Facility
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The Stacy Riddle Panhellenic Forum in our own Kappa room.  
  
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Fall semester was marked by Kappa’s participation in Greek Weekend in which we hosted the 2nd annual Kappa cook off, the proceeds of which went to Barclay Elementary school. Kappa was also happy to take 2nd place in the weekend’s powder-puff football competition. Later in the semester as a sisterhood bonding retreat the sisters visited a nearby ropes course where they partook in both teambuilding and trust exercises. The fall was concluded with a winter formal and the election of new officers.
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Oral History
  
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In the past year it has not just been the Greek organizations on campus that have experienced growth. The university accepted the largest freshman class in history last spring. In addition a number of new construction projects have been completed to handle the university's expansion. However, the heart of campus remains the same as do the attitudes of the students. Greek life is still a close knit community of four panhellenic sororities though there has been discussion of inviting a fifth sorority to campus in the next few years.
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Tommye Lou Davis
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Rene Taylor
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Our chapter has expanded greatly in the last year and has really succeeded in establishing itself around campus as an involved and proactive organization as seen by our strong turn out for Greek week and our high level of involvement in other on campus organizations. We are still a tightly knit group despite our rapid growth and the sister remain focused on academics and philanthropy: Relay for Life, volunteering at the Barclay School for RIF, American Cancer Society, Maryland Food Bank, Maryland SPCA.
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Beth Musgraves
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Gretchen Eichenberg
  
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==Highlights of 2020==
  
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==Highlights of 2013==
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Pre-covid chapter events of 2020 read as follows. January 11: 89 new members pledged Kappa. January 30: Big little reveal. January 31: New Member Dance with theme “Kappa Kappa Glow” where new members and dates and active members dressed in neon clothing, danced, and performed new member songs. February 1: KOT Fishery, philanthropy event. February 7: Sapphire Ball Formal. February 9: beginning of Inspiration Period for Initiation. February 14/15: Initiation of 89 new members. February 29: Participated in All-University Sing paired with Kappa Sigma for our act, “Ship of Dreams.” Received first place and a bid to Pigskin. Following spring break, we did not return to campus due to COVID-19. We began to adapt in the spring semester by sending out news letters to encourage and engage the chapter. Our social media presence during this time became another way for our chapter to stay connected. Our PR chairs created a beautiful postcard to mail to each of our members to the location in which they were quarantined. We began social media campaigns to encourage one another and stay connected, including “What we miss Wednesday,” “Sister Spotlight,” and “Senior Saturday.” Each of these were intended to highlight a particular member and share about what makes our chapter special to them. In addition, we began posting Instagram Stories for every members birthday, as we were not able to sing to them in meeting like normal. When we returned to campus in the fall, we began to hold virtual meetings every Tuesday at 5:15pm over Zoom. Our Philanthropy week took place November 8-14. This included a book drive for our local elementary school, Parkdale Elementary. We had profit shares all week at popular Waco restaurants which we promoted through our social media, including Andy’s Frozen Custard and Mamaka Bowls. On Thursday we had a Zoom Zumba class where participants paid $3 which went to RIF. On Friday we had a virtual raffle with amazing prizes including $100+ gift cards to local restaurants, football tickets, gift cards to local boutiques, and many more.
  
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During 2013, Eta Epsilon chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma was the recipient of the Province Standards Award. Eta Epsilon continued their tradition of receiving the Highest GPA Award in chapter rankings at the Johns Hopkins University with a 3.43 in the Spring Semester and a 3.49 in the Fall Semester. The sisters additionally received 2nd place in the Greek Week event of Powder Puff. The Philanthropy event of our Kappa Kook-Off continued to be very successful and raised money for the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation and Reading is Fundamental.  
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Reading is Fundamental, works with Parkdale Elementary weekly, reading to second grade students. This weekly practice was put on pause with COVID.This year we continued our partnership with Parkdale Elementary because our existing relationship has proved very effective. Our members love going each week and it's really fun to continue working with the same teachers and occasionally seeing some of the kids you've worked with before. We wanted to make sure we continue to establish a relationship with the Waco community. This provides the chapter with the opportunity to raise funds for Reading is Fundamental but also an opportunity to work weekly with local students who need extra assistance in reading. Even through COVID where we could not continue to meet with our students weekly, we participated in a drive-by at the beginning of the school year to encourage the students and show our support.
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To support Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion within our chapter, we elected two officers to support this effort. One officer’s responsibilities included communicating with Baylor’s Panhellenic community to support our community’s DEI efforts. Our second officer was elected to internally implement DEI within our chapter. Through chapter discussions and training, we have continued to make strides with DEI and look forward to continuing this growth and understanding in our
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community.
  
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2013 Recruitment included the highest number of Potential New Members going through formal Recruitment to date at the Johns Hopkins University. This affected all sororities on campus in accommodating these large numbers during the recruitment process. The Eta Epsilon Chapter enjoyed a successful recruitment gaining its chapter a large class of 56 New Members. The sisters of Eta Epsilon held a new philanthropy event called Kappa Kickball to raise funds and support the local community.  They also started a new tradition of accepting children’s books as admission to Kappa events or monetary donations. All the children’s books and proceeds were donated to Baltimore’s Barclay Elementary School. In 2013, there was a great dedication and focus on philanthropy. Eta Epsilon sisters volunteered for Dance Marathon, Relay for Life, President’s Day of Service, Freshman Move-in/Orientation, Tutorial Project, Kappa Kook-off, Kappa-Kickball, children’s book game during Spring Fair, and continued working on literacy skills with students at Barclay Elementary.
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To celebrate Kappa’s 150th anniversary in a safe, socially distanced manner, we held a
  
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==Highlights of 2014==
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virtual Founders Day ceremony over Zoom. In addition to the Zoom ceremony, we
  
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During 2014, Eta Epsilon chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma received honorable mention for academic excellence at the Kappa Kappa Gamma 2014 National Convention in Houston, Texas. Eta Epsilon is proud to report their members continued success in academics as the chapter again received the Highest GPA award among sorority chapter rankings for the Fall semester at the Johns Hopkins University with a 3.45 GPA in the Spring Semester and a 3.49 GPA in the Fall Semester. The two Philanthropy events during 2014 were the second annual Kappa Kickball event and then the annual Kappa Kook- off. Both were successful events that fostered a sense of community on the Johns Hopkins campus as well as helped raised money for the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation and Reading is Fundamental.
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delivered Chick-Fil-A to our member’s houses/apartments so they could enjoy dinner with
  
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2014 Recruitment again saw a very large number of Potential New Members excited to go through the formal Recruitment process at the Johns Hopkins University. With five sororities on campus offering bids to potential new members, Eta Epsilon Chapter welcomed 42 New Members (after two losses of Potential New Members). The sisters of Eta Epsilon again held successful philanthropy events, Kappa Kickball and Kappa Kook-off, in which at each event they accepted children’s books, as well as monetary donations, as admission to Kappa events. As during 2013, all the children’s books and monetary donations were donated to Baltimore’s Barclay Elementary School. In 2014, the sisters of Eta Epsilon set a goal of attending and participating in more philanthropic events run by on-campus student organizations as well as other Greek life organizations. These events included Dance Marathon, Relay for Life, President’s Day of Service, Freshman Move-in/ Orientation, Tutorial Project, Greek Week, Powder-puff, Kappa Kook-off, Kappa Kickball, Johns Hopkins’ Spring Fair activities and various other sorority/ fraternity events. Eta Epsilon also made a goal of having a more organized structure to its committee meetings and a better flow of communication between chapter members.
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roommates while watching the ceremony. In addition to the ceremony and dinner, we
  
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Eta Epsilon chapter holds chapter meetings each Sunday of the month in a hall owned by the university on campus property. Eta Epsilon does not have a house. Therefore, each member finds her own housing, either in an apartment or smaller house located around the campus of the Johns Hopkins University.
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painted a banner and hung it for photos, as well as had a Snapchat filter for members to
  
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celebrate and take photos. This made us feel close with one another as we celebrated from
  
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==Highlights of 2015==
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a distance. Photos of the banner will be attached!
  
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During 2015, Eta Epsilon continued to report its members continued success in academics. Eta Epsilon report an average 2015 spring semester GPA of 3.42. The two Philanthropy events during 2015 were the first annual Kappa Krushes and Kappa Con Queso. Both were successful events that fostered a sense of community on the Johns Hopkins campus as well as helped raised money for the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation and Reading is Fundamental.
 
  
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2015 Recruitment again saw a very large number of Potential New Members excited to go through the formal Recruitment process at the Johns Hopkins University. With five sororities on campus offering bids to potential new members, Eta Epsilon Chapter welcomed 44 New Members (after three losses of Potential New Members). The sisters of Eta Epsilon again held successful philanthropy events, Kappa Kickball and Kappa Kook-off, in which at each event they accepted children’s books, as well as monetary donations, as admission to Kappa events. As during 2014, all the children’s books and monetary donations were donated to Baltimore’s Barclay Elementary School. In 2015, the sisters of Eta Epsilon continued their pledge to attend and participating in more philanthropic events run by on- campus student organizations as well as other Greek life organizations. These events included Dance Marathon, Relay for Life, President’s Day of Service, Freshman Move-in/ Orientation, Tutorial Project, Greek Week, Powderpuff, and Johns Hopkins’ Spring Fair activities.
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Disclaimer: all photos attached were taken before COVID-19 or are taken following social
  
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In spring 2015, Eta Epsilon formed “Kappademics”, a Facebook page run by the Education chairwomen. This page fostered a sense of community by having sisters post where on campus they were studying and when. It allowed sisters to form study groups and prioritize time for academics. The sister who posted the most in the group and also attended study hours was awarded the prestigious title of “Geek of the Week”.
+
distancing guidelines. Photos attached of members without masks are roommates.
  
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==Highlights of 2021-2030==
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[[File:2020 Chapter History Report Photos.pdf|thumb|Baylor pics]]
  
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From chapter’s History Report: Scholarship, group honors/awards, traditions, special events, changes on campus or within chapter, overall nature of the chapter, chapter goals, challenges and how they were overcome, etc.
 
  
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--------
 
  
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'''Note to Chapter Registrar:'''
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==Highlights of 2021==
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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.  
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This past year, our chapter has had the incredible privilege of welcoming in our New Member class, rebuilding traditions
 +
following the COVID-19 pandemic, and continuing to grow our chapter’s impact on the Waco
 +
community with our new philanthropy supporting children’s mental health. While the spring
 +
semester of 2021 was mostly virtual, our new members were given the chance to grow closer
 +
together with their member class and be a part of our organization amidst a global pandemic. Our
 +
chapter is proud to have had so many girls join Kappa during the spring semester, and with the start
 +
of the fall semester, we have begun to implement more in-person events again. Starting this fall, we
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hosted several sisterhood events specifically for MC 21, held our Lock-and-Key semi-formal in the fall,
 +
as well as showcasing our winning Sing performance, titled “Ship of Dreams” in Baylor’s Pigskin Revue
 +
which takes place every homecoming. Our float chairs also put together a beautiful NASCAR-themed
 +
float along with the help of our friends in the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity that was a hit in the
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homecoming parade. Our philanthropy chairs have led the charge in supporting Parkdale Elementary
 +
School, which has been a partner of Kappa at Baylor for nearly 30 years. We are proud to say that
 +
while there have been limits placed on how we can support the students at Parkdale, we have
 +
continued to assist them in any way we are able to and we are looking forward to continuing that
 +
relationship we have held with Parkdale Elementary for so many years. While this was an
 +
unprecedented year in our chapter’s history, we are proud to say that the Epsilon Upsilon chapter of
 +
Kappa Kappa Gamma has come out stronger because of it.
 +
Chapter Philanthropy
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What local organization does the chapter support and why? Our chapter has been in the
 +
process of continuing our long-standing relationship with Parkdale Elementary School located in
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Waco, Texas. Starting in August, our chapter council voted to support a new organization focusing on
 +
children’s mental health, especially considering the impact that the pandemic has had on all
 +
elementary-aged children. The organization we voted to support is the Children’s Health and
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Mentorship Program, otherwise known as “CHAMP,” which focuses on supporting all aspects of
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children’s mental health and giving them a healthy environment to learn and thrive, especially
 +
following the mental strain that COVID-19 has had on all students, especially elementary-aged
 +
students such as those in Parkdale.
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How did the chapter support Kappa’s philanthropy? Due to the COVID protocols that Parkdale
 +
Elementary School has put into place, our chapter was not able to attend Parkdale on Fridays like we
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normally would during a year without social distancing policies. In order to accommodate for this lack
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of in-person support, our chapter held a “Drive-Boo” where we had a drive-through Halloween party
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for the students, a profit-share to raise money for CHAMP, and our philanthropy chairs have been
 +
working to continue fundraising events in the spring.
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Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
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Our chapter has implemented a Diversity, Equity,and Inclusion chair in our chapter council. Our current
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DEI Chair, Kelsey Womack, has done an
 +
outstanding job in educating our chapter on how we can uplift our community at Baylor and act in
 +
such a way that is respecting and honoring to everyone who is on our campus and in our Waco
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community. Kelsey, along with her committee, shared devotionals about inclusion in our weekly
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chapter meetings and helped lead a worship night with a local fraternity on campus to grow closer as
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a Baylor community with the intention of growing in diversity and inclusion.
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Operating in a Pandemic
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In the spring semester, our chapter had virtual new member period, initiation, and chapter
 +
meetings. Along with the help of our Panhellenic council, we were able to have a socially distant
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event outside in April, where our new members were able to sing the songs they learned virtually
 +
from our recruitment chairs. This fall semester has held a strong desire to be back in-person, and our
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chapter council has held several in-person chapter meetings and social events in order to grow closer
 +
as a chapter. While we are supporting our philanthropy in a virtual setting, we intend to be back
 +
helping out on their campus as soon as they lift social distancing policies. Additionally, we are
 +
preparing to have a virtual open house day for our spring recruitment with in-person days following
 +
the virtual meetings. The lack of in-person events has certainly helped our chapter grow closer
 +
together and appreciate the time we now spend together outside of zoom!
  
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Your efforts will ensure a complete and accurate history of your chapter for future generations to enjoy!
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[[File:Baylor21.jpg|thumb|Sisterhood]]

Latest revision as of 16:21, 10 September 2022

Epsilon Upsilon
EY
Epsilon.jpg
FoundedNovember 25, 1873 (1873-11-25) (152 years ago)
CollegeBaylor University
LocationWaco,TX
ProvinceTheta
HomepageEpsilon Upsilon Website
Media related to Epsilon Upsilon Chapter

Baylor University, established in 1845, Waco, Texas


3,116 initiates (as of June 2018)


Charter Members: Kathryn Ann Bledsoe, Tamara Jane Cox, Debra Ann Edens, Suzanne Maniss Craig, Sharron Williams Cutbirth, Debra Ann Edens, Patricia Ann Jansky, Elizabeth Dorrett Keitt, Susan Grace King, Molly Grace Meredith, Sara Lynn Miller, Judith Annette Rose, Mary Douglas Seabury, Gena Lynn Smith, Karla Gay Smith, Sabrina Lynn Walker, Helen Liana Wiggins, Sharron Kay Williams and M. Donise Wilson, chapter President.

Fraternity Council Members:


Fraternity Loyalty Award Recipients:


Fraternity Alumnae Achievement Award Recipients:


Additional Outstanding Epsilon Upsilon Alumnae


History of Baylor University[edit]

The Texas Baptist Education Society then petitioned the Congress of the Republic of Texas to charter a Baptist university in the fall of 1844. Republic President Anson Jones signed the Act of Congress on Feb. 1, 1845, officially establishing Baylor University. Reverend James Huckins, the first Baptist missionary to Texas, was Baylor's first full-time fundraiser and the third founding father of the university. Although these three men are credited as being the founders of Baylor University, there are many others who worked to see our university established in Texas.

After the University was chartered on February 1, 1845, four communities made bids to be the location: Travis, Huntsville, Shannon's Prairie and Independence. Independence was selected, and classes for preparatory students began in May 1846 with college courses offered the following June. In 1886, Baylor and Waco University consolidated to form Baylor University at Waco.

From humble beginnings in Independence, Texas, the campus has grown to approximately 1,000 acres in Waco, Texas, annually educating more than 15,000 men and women to pursue their individual life callings.

These are exciting times in the life of the University - a period in which our institution is striving to remain both a relevant institution of higher learning for the coming years and to continue to fulfill our original mission laid down by our founders: to be a Christian University "fully susceptible of enlargement and development to meet the needs of all ages to come." In a world where faith is often the casualty of a serious pursuit of academic achievement, Baylor is a special place.

The ability and willingness of Baylor to adapt and change to achieve continual progress can be traced throughout its history. It has endured and survived hardships, from financial difficulties, to the Great Depression, to world wars. It made a historic and critical decision to move from Independence to Waco, its current home. It divested its medical and dental schools at a time when that proved to be the most prudent decision for the success of each program. It even had the foresight and fortitude to change its very charter to insulate the institution from denominational struggles.

Baylor University is a private Christian university and a nationally ranked liberal arts institution. Our rank of alumni include missionaries and pastors, heads of Fortune 500 companies, governors of Texas and professional athletes. Chartered in 1845 by the Republic of Texas through the efforts of Baptist pioneers, Baylor is the oldest continually operating university in the state.


The Early Years (From The History of Kappa Kappa Gamma 1870–1976)[edit]

Largest Initiation! During September 22–24, 1977, Kappa Kappa Gamma Installed Epsilon Upsilon Chapter at Baylor University. Everyone knows Texas is a big state and Texans “think big,” so it was only fitting that this was the biggest Initiation yet for Kappa Kappa Gamma!

Beginning on Thursday and culminating in a formal banquet on Saturday evening, a total of eight Initiation services were held and close to 400 Atheneans became Kappas.

The Athenean Club The Athenean Club was founded in 1935 when four freshman girls felt a need for more social contact between “dorm girls” and “town girls.” Each of the four chose a friend, and the eight of them formed a sorority based on high ideals, which grew strong and loyal with approximately 1,500 initiates between 1935 and 1977. The name Athenean was suggested by their first sponsor, Sarah Lowry. It was chosen because of the intellectual qualities and cultural attainment associated with the people of ancient Athens.

Installation Weekend Serving as the installation chairman was Becky Stone Arbour, Delta Iota—LSU, with co-chairman Penny Hight Richards, Beta Xi—Texas, who made sure that out-of-town guests were housed at the Old Main Lodge in Waco, and the First Presbyterian Church was ready for the ceremonies, and the Student Union was available for the lovely formal banquet and Sunday afternoon campus reception. Installing officers were Jean Hess Wells, Delta Upsilon—Georgia, Fraternity President; Kay Smith Larson, Beta Pi—Washington, Director of Chapters; Gay Chuba Barry, Delta Alpha—Penn State, Director of Alumnae; Patricia Boyd Adams, Theta Province Director of Chapters; and Shirley Younkin Shreve, Theta Province Director of Alumnae. Executive Secretary, Betty Sanor Cameron,along with Jean Ebright Elin, and Diane Miller Selby, Beta Nu—Ohio State, Editor of The Key, came from Fraternity Headquarters as the expert “set-up crew.”

Kappa alumnae in Waco worked tirelessly to assure the success of this venture—bringing flowers, hammers and smiles every day. Kappas from Fort Worth, Houston, Dallas, Richardson and other areas came to help during the Initiation ceremonies. Beta Xi—Texas, served as the sister chapter for Epsilon Upsilon.

Among the initiated were many relatives—mothers and daughters, younger sisters and older sisters and other relatives. In a club as old and strong as the Atheneans, it was fitting that the oldest initiate was honored—Cornelia Marschall Smith, born October 15, 1896. She entered Baylor in 1915, earned an AB, and then a MA from the University of Chicago, and her Ph.D. in 1928 from Johns Hopkins. She was a member of Mortar Board and other honoraries. Her husband was a professor of English at Baylor, and Cornelia was a professor emeritus of biology.

The 17 young women who chose to become charter members of Epsilon Upsilon Chapter were initiated in the first service. A large group of former Athenean presidents as well as many other Athenean alumnae were initiated in subsequent services.

The installation banquet was held in the Barfield Room of the Student Union Building. Peggy Hicks McGregor, Gamma Phi—SMU, served as toastmistress, and Virginia Dodson Crump, the associate dean of students, provided a warm welcome. Sara Stewart, Beta Xi President and Donise Wilson, Epsilon Upsilon President, spoke as well. An inspiring speech by former Fraternity President Louise Little Barbeck, Gamma Phi—SMU, was enjoyed by all.

The new chapter received many gifts and showed their appreciation by singing an original song, which seemed likely to become a Kappa favorite. Field Secretary Karen Hungerford, Mu—Butler, and Graduate Counselor Nancy Trimble, Delta Sigma—Oklahoma State, appeared every bit as excited as the newly initiated Kappas when the final banquet song ended and all realized that this big dream was a reality—the Atheneans were Kappas in the finest sense!

At the time of Epsilon Upsilon’s founding, Baylor University was owned and operated by the Baptist General Convention of Texas, and had a student enrollment of 8,000 in its 240-acre Waco campus. The university was founded in 1845 and was chartered by the last Congress of the Republic of Texas. One of Baylor’s first benefactors was Sam Houston.

Highlights of the 1980’s[edit]

In the 1980’s Baylor’s freshman classes were continuously getting much larger meaning that “rush” was as well. In 1985 Baylor had an especially large freshman class with 200-300 over the typical enrollment. Consequently, almost 1200 girls registered for recruitment and 487 pledged (we took 50 girls totaling the chapter to 173). In 1987 Baylor began exploring adding another Panhellenic group to campus (at the time they had 9 organizations) because of the amount of women that were interested in Greek Life. Throughout the 80’s we had our new members do their own philanthropy event and our class of 1985 chose to visit a nursing home two different days with the KOT pledge class.

Recruitment did look a bit different back in the 80’s though. In 1985 part of our recruitment consisted of taking potential new members to different Kappa Apartments – “Apartment Hops” – and themes were Halloween and Christmas. This year we also began using our computer to tabulate votes which really helped to speed up the process.

Some regular events we held were Kappa Dads Day, a scholarship banquet, Founder’s Day, Kite and Key with Kappa Alpha Theta, Homecoming events, Mystery Masquerade (annual Halloween/costume dance), Swingaton with Sigma Alpha Epsilon benefiting Waco Firefighters, All University Sing, and more! One annual event that they started in 1984 was a Powder Puff football game with the new members against Pi Beta Phi’s new members. The Kappa Pickers were of course around to sing at many of these events.

We also created a clear goal each year that we really wanted to focus on. In 1985 this goal was “Unity” which stood for Understanding, No Hazing, Involvement, Time with God and Your Sisters. Each officer incorporated this theme into their goals for her office and committee. In 1987 we decided to have the goal Kappa Kommittment each month. Every month Kappa had a new commitment to strive towards (Scholarship, Pledges, Friendship, etc), but in the fall of this year we received a letter from headquarters with concerns regarding our scholarship standing and we then switched all of our focus to overcoming this dilemma.

Highlights of the 1990’s[edit]

Epsilon Upsilon started out the 1990’s wanting to be remembered for our achievement in philanthropy in 1991. During this year we sponsored the all university walk-a-thon which let every sorority enter and raise money for their individual charities. Among other service projects were visits to nursing homes, the Methodist Home and serving dinner at the Salvation Army. In 1991 we also received the Most Improved Chapter awards at the Kappa Kappa Gamma Convention. This year our Chapter President was also named Baylor Homecoming Queen!

In the early 90’s one of our biggest challenges as a chapter (which continued on from the 80’s) was scholarship. We continued to work on trying to raise our chapter GPA through study halls for different GPA categories, a reward system to encourage others, and raising our grade requirement during recruitment. By 1995 we had raised our GPA above the Kappa national average, but we didn’t want to just maintain this so we continued to add new ways for members of our chapter to focus on scholarship together.

With our scholarship improvements throughout the early 90’s, the late 90’s we realized we needed to start focusing more on ways to increase fraternity education and ritual. We did this through short facts during chapter meeting and weekly information sessions. We even gave our entire chapter pre-tests and post-tests in order to measure the increase in knowledge.

Epsilon Upsilon continued to stay involved on the Baylor campus in the 90’s – participating in All-University Sing, Pigskin, Greek Week, intramurals and more. In 1993 we also started an annual Easter Egg Hunt for faculty and alumni children which proved to be a big success.

We also consistently focus on bonding with our sisters and one way we did so was through an annual fall chapter retreat. In 1994 we escaped to Camp Balcones Springs in Marble Falls on beautiful Lake Travis. It was a wonderful weekend for the entire chapter to relax, bond, share and get to spend quality time together. One thing we did during this retreat was a “pair share” time. This is a time when every Kappa in the chapter is paried with another Kappa they do not know very well and get a chance to talk and then share with the chapter what their learned about their sister. Prayer has consistently been important to us at Epsilon Upsilon and in anticipation of rush in 1996 we implemented a 24-hour day of prayer. Each chapter member signed up for a time slot and continually prayed for our chapter throughout the 24 hours.

Highlights of the 2000’s[edit]

Epsilon Upsilon celebrated the millennium with a special “It’s a New Year In Kappa” theme on the first day of recruitment, which began January 3, 2000. The slide show presentation ended with grand fireworks giving all present the feeling of ringing in the new millennium together. A monetary gift was given to the Panhellenic Building Fund to celebrate the ground breaking of the Stacy Riddle Panhellenic Forum.

In the 2000’s Epsilon Upsilon continued our on-going support of their community – local charities, university-wide events, and other campus organizations alike. We regularly participated in and looked forward to the Kappa Omega Tau Fishery which is a unique service project that allowed us to serve the mentally and physically handicapped individuals in Waco. We also continued our annual Easter Egg Hunt tradition for the community. Back in 1999 we started a new philanthropy – Kappa Klassic Golf Tournament. This tournament continued throughout the 2000’s and we raised significant amounts of money for charity. We also began a partnership with a local elementary school (Parkdale Elementary) where we not only tutor the children, but members also have the opportunity to sign up for Parkdale Pen Pal.

We continued to have many event such as Kappa Country, Kappa Krush, and Kappa Krawfish Boil. While many events we have are with other members of Greek Life at Epsilon Upsilon “Kappa Backs the Bears” so we had many fun take-a-dates and mixers with the football, basketball, and baseball teams.

Homecoming is consistently important at Baylor and to us in Epsilon Upsilon. Throughout the 2000’s there were multiple times that a member was elected Homecoming Queen and we are always very involved with all the activities. In 2008 the Homecoming theme was “Hanzel and Gretel” and we built a fantastic homecoming float titled “Brew Mizzou”.

As it was in the early 90’s, the early 2000’s were a time for us to focus on strengthening our chapter GPA. We worked hard to update Kappa test files and provide members with tutoring so that older and younger members within the same fields of study could pair and help each other. In 2006 this proved to be very helpful in that our chapter GPA rose from sixth out of nine sororities to fourth out of nine. In 2008 our chapter was placed on a letter of warning from the fraternity which created many changes within our chapter, but also united us to work together to comply with the recommended areas of improvement.

Prayer continued to be an important aspect our chapter throughout the 2000’s and especially during the time of September 11, 2001. Throughout the days following the tragedy, Baylor conducted several prayer services. Another University-wide action was a moment of silence the next day at 12:00 noon, so that every student and professor could take to opportunity to reflect and pray for the victims and their families. Our Kappa chapter also held a prayer session for us to unite and support those in need.

Highlights of 2012[edit]

Two Thousand Twelve was an outstanding year for the Epsilon Upsilon chapter. Last January, we had another successful recruitment and were blessed with an incredible new member class. Our Sing chairs created a breath-taking first place masquerade act, which will now appear in Pigskin Review.

The event chairs planned date dashes, the annual Sapphire Ball, pledge dance, and a take-a-date. There was our spring Swing-a-thon and afternoons spent at Parkdale Elementary School serving as mentors to second graders. The chapter participated in established traditions, such as organizing the 62nd Annual All-University Baylor Beauty Style Show and arranging an Easter egg hunt for children of faculty, but we created new traditions as well.

To celebrate our founding sisterhood, we hosted the first Late Night at Monmouth Pancake Breakfast with the ladies of Pi Beta Phi. Together, we raised $2,960 for charity water, a non-profit organization that seeks to bring clean and safe drinking water to those in developing countries.

Spring finals arrived too quickly, but summer did not bring the end to Epsilon Upsilon’s involvement. A few members of our Chapter Council participated in the Fraternity’s 69th Biennial Convention in Jacksonville, Florida. We attended seminars, workshops, and educational events, as well as enjoyed spending time with alumnae, advisers, and Kappas from around the world. Together, members studied abroad, interned across the country, and took summer classes. Regardless if we are meeting each week, it is never hard to find a Kappa!

Before we knew it, August arrived, and summer came to an end. We started the year with Greek Week events, intramurals, and an All-American themed crush. Even amidst the chaos that fall semester brings, it is truly wonderful to see our chapter come together to celebrate both Kappa and Baylor traditions. The seniors have enjoyed “seniors only” social events, while our new members have continued to learn pledge songs for recruitment.

We honored Founders Day with our Waco Alumnae Association. Partaking in our ritual together was a great reminder that Kappa truly is for a lifetime. We got to know each other’s families at our lovely Parents’ Weekend luncheon. Epsilon Upsilon has continued to volunteer weekly at Parkdale, held the fall Swing-a-thon, hosted a Kendra Scott Jewelry Trunk Show benefiting Reading is Fundamental, organized a Halloween carnival at Compassion Ministries, and kicked off our annual book drive. Nights have been spent with the men of Alpha Tau Omega at our float site and dancing with the Kappa Sigmas at Pigskin practice. Both of these ventures were very successful by winning Judge’s Choice Award for float and performing our First Place act in Pigskin.

We are gearing up for another exciting recruitment, getting to know many potential new members and legacies. We ended the semester with the Kappa Pickers performing at multiple functions. Our final Kappa event for the semester was Kappa Kountry in which we two-stepped the night away!

There have been many recent changes on the Baylor campus during this year. Baylor University is building a new stadium that will be on campus. The stadium will not be completed until the 2014 season. Baylor is also building a new dormitory that should be ready for for the incoming freshman. Multiple projects are going on around Baylor University at all time.

Highlights of 2013[edit]

Two Thousand Thirteen was another great year for the Epsilon Upsilon chapter. In January, we had a wonderful recruitment and were able to take an incredible new member class. The new member class was initiated and has been a blessing to the whole chapter. Our Sing chairs created an imaginative act called Topsy Turvy which was performed for Baylor University. The social chairs planned date dashes, our Sapphire Ball, pledge dance, and a take-a-date. Our spring Swing-a-thon and afternoons spent at Parkdale Elementary School allowed our chapter to give back to our community. The chapter participated in many established traditions, such as the 63rd Annual All-University Baylor Beauty Style Show and an Easter egg hunt for children of faculty. Late Night at Monmouth Pancake Breakfast was a success for the second year where we raised money for charity water, a non-profit organization that seeks to bring clean and safe drinking water to those in developing countries.

The spring semester came to an end, but summer did not bring a pause to Epsilon Upsilon’s involvement. Our chapter was able to organize a mission trip to Antigua, Guatemala, which a handful of members participated in. Those members served the people of Guatemala with loving hearts and were able to contribute much more than time and money during their stay there. We attended seminars, workshops, and educational events, as well as enjoyed spending time with alumnae, advisors, and Kappas from around the world. Together, members studied abroad, interned across the country, went on mission trips and took summer classes at Baylor.

Before we knew it, August arrived, and summer came to an end. We started the year with Greek Week events, Welcome Week events, a take-a-date, and intramurals. Our chapter found the time to celebrate Baylor and Kappa traditions in the fall semester despite our busy schedules. The seniors enjoyed “seniors only” social events, while our new members continued to learn pledge songs for recruitment. We honored Founders Day with our Waco Alumnae Association. Partaking in our ritual together was a great reminder that Kappa truly is for a lifetime. We paired with several fraternities at football games to have tailgates before the games. We got to know each other’s families at our lovely Parents’ Weekend brunch.

Epsilon Upsilon has continued to volunteer weekly at Parkdale Elementary School, hosted a Kendra Scott Jewelry Trunk Show benefiting Reading is Fundamental, and organized a Halloween carnival at Compassion Ministries. Our chapter created a new event on campus, Kappa Karnival, which was a great success. Nights were spent working with the men of Alpha Tau Omega at our float site for the homecoming parade. The Kappa Pickers performed at many events including Christmas on 5th. We just had another successful recruitment and are preparing to initiate our 89 new members!       Baylor University’s new football stadium is close to being finished. There is construction on it constantly and it should be open for the fall 2014 football season. The new dormitories that opened this past fall on campus have been a great blessing to the freshmen this year. Baylor is also currently preparing to build a new business school on campus.

Highlights of 2014[edit]

Two Thousand Fourteen was an outstanding year for the Epsilon Upsilon chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma. Last January, we had another successful recruitment and were blessed with an incredible new member class. Our Sing chairs worked really hard to create a great Sing Act called “Running Wild”, which was shown in Pigskin Review in the Fall of 2014. The social chairs planned date dashes, the annual Sapphire Ball, pledge dance, and a take-a-date. There was our Spring Swing-a-thon where we raised and donated money to a local halfway house in Waco, Compassion Ministries. Last Spring was also full of many afternoons spent at Parkdale Elementary School serving as mentors to second graders. The chapter participated in established traditions, such as organizing the Annual All-University Baylor Beauty Style Show and arranging an Easter egg hunt for children of faculty, but we created new traditions as well.

Spring finals arrived too quickly, but summer did not bring the end to Epsilon Upsilon’s involvement. A few members of our Chapter Council participated in the Fraternity’s Convention in Houston, Texas. We attended seminars, workshops, and educational events, as well as enjoyed spending time with alumnae, advisors, and Kappas from around the world. Together, members studied abroad, interned across the country, and took summer classes. Regardless if we are meeting each week, it is never hard to find a Kappa!

Before we knew it, August arrived, and summer came to an end. We started the year with Greek Week events, intramurals, and a dodgeball crush event. Even amidst the chaos that Fall semester brings, it is truly wonderful to see our chapter come together to celebrate both Kappa and Baylor traditions. The seniors have enjoyed “seniors only” social events, while our new members have continued to learn pledge songs for recruitment. We honored Founders Day at a local country club with our Waco Alumnae Association. Partaking in our ritual together was a great reminder that Kappa truly is for a lifetime. We got to know each other’s families at our lovely Family Weekend luncheon. Epsilon Upsilon has continued to volunteer weekly at Parkdale, held the Fall Swing-a-thon benefitting a local animal shelter in Waco, Texas; Fuzzy Friends, organized a Halloween carnival at Compassion Ministries, volunteered at the Parkdale Halloween carnival and kicked off our annual book drive. Nights have been spent with the men of Phi Kappa Chi at our float site, where we ending up winning 1st place out of all the Homecoming Floats. We also performed “Running Wild” in Pigskin Review. We also hosted our second Kappa Karnival this year, it was very successful. Throughout the Fall we spent time gearing up for another exciting recruitment, getting to know many potential new members and legacies. We ended the semester with the Kappa Pickers performing at multiple functions.

Our Campus has a new football stadium, McLane stadium. It is beautifully designed. Baylor is currently building a new Business School, which will be opening in Fall 2015. There are also many other changes going on in the growing Baylor community. The nature of our chapter is very positive, growing, graceful, friendly, loyal, and loving. There is a strong focus on RIF, supporting other chapters, including all Kappa chapter members, and University related events (SING, Homecoming Float, Steppin Out, Pigskin etc.).

We hold chapter meetings in our Kappa suite in the Stacy Riddle Panhellenic Forum. This suite is rented.


Highlights of 2015[edit]

Two Thousand Fifteen was an outstanding year for the Epsilon Upsilon chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma. Last January, we had another successful recruitment and were blessed with an incredible new member class. Our Sing chairs worked really hard to create a great Sing Act called “Weird Science”, which was shown in Pigskin Review in the Fall of 2015. The social chairs planned date dashes, the annual Sapphire Ball, pledge dance, and a take-a-date. There was our Spring Swing-a-thon where we raised and donated money to the Waco Humane Society Last Spring was also full of many afternoons spent at Parkdale Elementary School serving as mentors to second graders. In the Spring of 2015, our chapter won an award for partner of the year (2014-2015) for Waco ISD. The chapter participated in established traditions, such as organizing the Annual All-University Baylor Beauty Style Show and arranging an Easter egg hunt for children of faculty. Spring finals arrived too quickly, but summer did not bring the end to Epsilon Upsilon’s involvement. Together, members studied abroad, interned across the country, and took summer classes. Regardless if we are meeting each week, it is never hard to find a Kappa! Before we knew it, August arrived, and summer came to an end. We started the year with Greek Week events, intramurals, and a dodgeball crush event on campus. Even amidst the chaos that Fall semester brings, it is truly wonderful to see our chapter come together to celebrate both Kappa and Baylor traditions. The seniors have enjoyed “seniors only” social events, while our new members have continued to learn pledge songs for recruitment. We honored Founders Day at McLane Stadium with our Waco Alumnae Association. Our chapter was so excited to celebrate the 145th year. Partaking in our ritual together was a great reminder that Kappa truly is for a lifetime. Epsilon Upsilon has continued to volunteer weekly at Parkdale, held the Fall Swing-a-thon benefiting the Waco Humane Society, volunteered at the Parkdale Halloween carnival and kicked off our annual book drive. Nights approaching Homecoming weekend were spent with the men of Phi Kappa Chi at our float site. Kappa had a Junior member, Sydney Taylor, selected as a Homecoming Princess this year. We also performed “Weird Science” in Pigskin Review Homecoming weekend. We hosted our third Kappa Karnival this year, it was very successful. Throughout the Fall we spent time gearing up for another exciting recruitment, getting to know many potential new members and legacies. We ended the semester with the Kappa Pickers performing at multiple functions. Baylor built a new Business School, which opened Fall 2015, it is very nice. There are also many other changes going on in the growing Baylor community. The nature of our chapter is very positive, growing, graceful, friendly, loyal, and loving. There is a strong focus on RIF, supporting other chapters, including all Kappa chapter members, and University related events (SING, Homecoming Float, Steppin Out, Pigskin etc.).

Chapter Philanthropy:

Our chapter supports RIF, Kappa Foundation, Parkdale Elementary, Compassion Ministries, Waco Humane Society, and Hannah’s House.

We have supported and worked with Parkdale Elementary and Compassion ministries in years past and want to continue that relationship with both of them. We started supporting Waco Humane Society and Hannah’s House more recently. There is a huge stray animal problem in Waco and our local humane society helps curb that issue. Our chapter thinks it’s really important to help the community of Waco in that aspect. Hannah’s House is a nonprofit organization created to raise funds to build a children’s village with 8 homes in Zambia through Family Legacy in honor of Hannah Butler, a member of our chapter who recently passed. She was such a joy and so loving, and the village will be built in her honor once the funds are received.

Highlights of 2016[edit]

January: 9- Bid Day: 96 girls pledged Kappa 29- Social Event: Sapphire Ball Formal 30- New Member Luncheon with Waco Alumni

February 6-Participated in KOT Fishery: A philanthropy event; 9- Academic Excellence Dinner in the Kappa Room 13- Initiated 96 members into Kappa; Initiation luncheon at The Baylor Club 27- Competed in All-University Sing: Our act "Come Dance with Me" was performed with Kappa Sigma and advanced to Pigskin.

March 23- Kappa put on our Annual Easter Egg Hunt for Faculty and Staff's kids

April 3- Legacy Tea; 9- Baylor's Steppin Out: University Philanthropy Event; 10- Mom's Day with Practically Picasso in the Kappa Room; 16-Crawfish Boil Fundraiser with Kappa Sigma; 19- Kappa hosted our annual Event- Baylor Beauty; 21- Social Event: Take-A-Date Game night in Waco; 27- Kappa and Chi Omega hosted a faculty appreciation event: Cupcakes with Chi O

May 2- Luncheon at Parkdale Elementary: Our Philanthropic Partner; 15-24: Mission trip to Antigua, Guatemala

August 26- Recruitment Event: Late Night at the SLC

October 1- Social Event: Take-A-Date to the Texas State Fair; 13-15: Homecoming Weekend: Kappa had 5 members nominated for Homecoming Court, Created and Showcased a float built with Phi Kappa Chi, and performed "Come Dance with Me" at Pigskin

November 4-Philanthropy Event: Reading is Key at Parkdale; 5- Social Event: Tailgate with Sigma Chi;16- Philanthropy Event: Monmouth with Pi Phi; 17- Kappa and ADPi Worship Night; 18- Social Event: Dad's Day; 30- Kappa Social Event: Kappa Christmas

This semester we have also implemented "Key Girl of the Week" which is a way to recognize members of our chapter who have gone out of their way to support other members. A member is nominated each week and then our VPS picks the winner who gets to wear a KKG necklace for the week.

Taylor Adams, our president during 2015, won the Greek Leader of the Year award.

We received the silver award for our HHR Binder. At convention, we received awards for PR and Risk Management. Our chapter hosted a Trunk Show this year that featured work from our members. There were jewelry items, art, flower arrangements and more that all benefited RIF. We also partnered with Pi Phi again this semester to celebrate Monmouth with a pancake dinner. Last spring, we hosted a crawfish boil with Kappa Sigma and the proceeds went to RIF.

Baylor has undertaken some beneficial changes during the last year. The biggest one is Title IX awareness across campus and especially for Panhellenic women. Baylor has provided multiple speakers and an online course to bring awareness to this issue. Although Title IX coordinators have changed, Baylor is still promoting awareness and safety for the issue. Another big issue in Panhellenic is that are need of a new chapter on campus to accommodate all the girls who go through recruitment. This year we started a Panhellenic philanthropy in order to show our support for other chapters and Baylor Panhellenic. Circle of Sisterhood, the philanthropy, has had several events throughout the semester that our chapter has attended.

Our chapter raises money for Reading is Fundamental. However each week we work directly with Parkdale Elementary, a local elementary school. Each week members go into second grade classrooms and read with the students.

This year we continued our partnership with Parkdale Elementary because our existing relationship has proved very effective. Our members love going each week and it's really fun to continue working with the same teachers and occasionally seeing some of the kids you've worked with before. We wanted to make sure we continue to establish a relationship with the Waco community.

Our chapter holds meetings in the Stacy Riddle Panhellenic Forum in our own Kappa room .

We recommend Tommye Lou Davis for the Oral History Project


Highlights of 2017[edit]

January 6- Bid Day January 27- Sapphire Ball February 11- Initiation February 16-18; 23-35- Competed in All-University sing: our act "Fountain of Youth" was performed February 21- Academic Excellence Dinner March 1- New Member Dance April 6- Baylor Kappa holds the annual easter egg hunt on Baylor University's campus in honor for the faculty and staff and their children. We have an egg hunt, snacks, and pictures with an Easter Bunny. April 2- Moms day: Pop-up shop April 7- Take-A-Date: Oasis in Austin, TX April 9- Legacy Tea in the Kappa room for PNM Baylor Legacies April 11- Kappa hosted the 66th Baylor Beauty Charity Style Show, where ladies nominated campus wide competed against each other to be named baylor beauty. All ticket proceeds went to our philanthropy. April 13 - For the first time, we have one of our own selected to serve as a Leadership Consultant, Sydney Taylor. April 28- Parkdale Partner Lunch May 14-21: Baylor Kappa goes on mission trip to Antigua, Guatemala August 25- Recruitment Event: Late Night at the SLC: all university event for PNMs that are interested in recruitment September 29- Semi-Formal October 10- Founders Day including scholarship recognition of the chapters members. October 16- Spaghetti Not So Formal with ATO; an all university event and proceeds go to our philanthropy October 19-21- Homecoming Weekend: Kappa had members nominated for Homecoming Court. Created and showcased our 1st place float, and performed our sing act in Pigskin. October 28- Dads Day November 8- Kappa Karnival is an all university event benefiting Reading is Fundamental. We have raffle prizes, free dessert, bounce houses, and carnival themed booths run by fraternities. November 10- Reading is Key event at Parkdale Elementary December 1- Social Event: Take-A-Date to the exhibit "ICE!" at the Gaylord Texan Hotel Describe the recent changes on your campus and describe the overall nature of your chapter. The nature of our chapter is very friendly, very diverse yet we are all so alike and the personality of the chapter is fun and unique but responsible.

Chapter Philanthropy: What organization(s) has your chapter historically/traditionally raised money for, or donated hours to, in your community? Our chapter raises money for Reading is Fundamental. However each week we work directly with Parkdale Elementary, a local elementary school. Each week members go into kindergarten grade classrooms and read with the students. Why did your chapter choose this organization(s) to support? This year we continued our partnership with Parkdale Elementary because our existing relationship has proved very effective. Our members love going each week and it's really fun to continue working with the same teachers and occasionally seeing some of the kids you've worked with before. We wanted to make sure we continue to establish a relationship with the Waco community. Chapter Facility: In what kind of a facility does your chapter meet? Please attach a clear photo of where you typically hold chapter meetings – whether in a classroom, chapter house or elsewhere. Our chapter holds meetings in the Stacy Riddle Panhellenic Forum in our own Kappa room Oral History

Tommye Lou Davis

Highlights of 2018[edit]

January 7- Bid Day: 97 girls pledged Kappa 27- Social Event: Sapphire Ball Formal February 4- Participated in KOT Fishery: A philanthropy event 7- Academic Excellence Dinner in the Kappa Room 10- Initiated 97 girls into Kappa 17- Competed in All-University Sing: "Carwash" was performed and received 2nd place and a bid to Pigskin March 16- Social Event: New Member Dance 25- Take-a-Date: Dallas Mavericks Basketball Game 28- Kappa hosted annual Easter Egg Hunt for faculty and staff children pril 7- Baylor's Steppin Out- University Philanthropy Event 8- Legacy Tea 11- Kappa hosted annual event: Baylor Beauty 12- Kappa and Chi Omega hosted a faculty appreciation event: Cupcakes with Chi O 22- Mom's Day May 27- Mission trip to Antigua, Guatemala August 24- Recruitment Event: Late Night at the SLC October 8- Social Event: Dad's Day 24- Celebrated Founder's Day with Alumni at the Baylor Club 27- Take-a-Date: Austin Park in Austin, Texas November 2-4: Homecoming Weekend: Kappa had 2 members nominated for Homecoming Court, Created and showcased a float built with Alpha Tau Omega, and performed "Carwash" at Pigskin Revue 8- Kappa Karnival: All-University Event raising money for Reading is Fundamental 10- Baylor's Steppin Out: University Philanthropy Event 16- Philanthropy Event: Reading is Key event at Parkdale Elementary December 1- Social Event: Kappa Kristmas Semi-formal This semester we implemented "Bravo" which recognizes a member each week who has gone above and beyond in their way to support fellow members.

At convention, we received awards for PR and Risk Management. Our chapter hosted Outdoor Voices for a pop-up shop to raise money for Reading is Fundamental.

Baylor has undertaken several changes in the Greek community this year. Through this election of Alpha Phi to join Baylor Panhellenic the chapter has had the opportunity to strengthen unity with other chapters. Epsilon Upsilon looks forward to officially welcoming Alpha Phi to Baylor's campus this spring and working to encourage the growth of their chapter. The nature of the chapter is positive and excited for this season of change and the idea of building a stronger unity with other old and new chapters on Baylor's campus.


Our chapter supports Reading is Fundamental but works weekly with Parkdale Elementary.This year we continued our partnership with Parkdale Elementary because our existing relationship has proved very effective. Our members love going each week and it's really fun to continue working with the same teachers and occasionally seeing some of the kids you've worked with before. We wanted to make sure we continue to establish a relationship with the Waco community. This provides the chapter with the opportunity to raise funds for Reading is Fundamental but also an opportunity to work weekly with local students who need extra assistance in reading.


Our chapter meets in the The Stacy Riddle Panhellenic Forum in our own Kappa room.

Oral History

Tommye Lou Davis

Rene Taylor Beth Musgraves


Highlights of 2019[edit]

January 12- Bid Day: 98 girls pledged Kappa February 1 - Social Event: Sapphire Ball Formal February 2- Social Event: Sapphire Ball Formal Participated in KOT Fishery: A philanthropy event 5- Academic Excellence Dinner in the Kappa Room 15- Initiated 97 girls into Kappa 21- Competed in All-University Sing: "Come Fly With Me" was performed and received a bid to Pigskin March 16- Social Event: New Member Dance 23- Take-a-Date: Dallas Mavericks Basketball Game 28Kappa hosted annual Easter Egg Hunt for faculty and staff children April 6- Baylor's Steppin Out- University Philanthropy Event 7- Legacy Tea 11- Kappa hosted annual event: Baylor Beauty 18- Kappa and Chi Omega hosted a faculty appreciation event: Cupcakes with Chi O 21- Mom's Day May 27- Mission trip to Antigua, Guatemala August 24- Recruitment Event: Late Night at the SLC October 12- Social Event: Dad's Day 15- Celebrated Founder's Day with Alumni at the Baylor Club November 1-3: Homecoming Weekend: Kappa had 2 members nominated for Homecoming Court, Created and showcased a float built with Alpha Tau Omega which won "Best in Class," and performed "Come Fly With Me" at Pigskin Revue 8- Social Event: Winter Semi Formal 19- Kappa Karnival: All-University Event raising money for Reading is Fundamental 22- Philanthropy Event: Reading is Key event at Parkdale Elementary December 1- Social Event: Kappa Kristmas Semi-formal

This semester we implemented "Kisses" which is a game we will play at the end of chapter where 3 people are given Hershey's kisses and they pass them along to someone who made them happy that week or they think is great. .

Our chapter hosted Outdoor Voices for a pop-up shop to raise money for Reading is Fundamental.

The nature of the chapter is positive and excited for this season of change and the idea of building a stronger unity with other old and new chapters on Baylor's campus.

Chapter Philanthropy Reading is Fundamental but works weekly with Parkdale Elementary This year we continued our partnership with Parkdale Elementary because our existing relationship has proved very effective. Our members love going each week and it's really fun to continue working with the same teachers and occasionally seeing some of the kids you've worked with before. We wanted to make sure we continue to establish a relationship with the Waco community. This provides the chapter with the opportunity to raise funds for Reading is Fundamental but also an opportunity to work weekly with local students who need extra assistance in reading.

Chapter Facility The Stacy Riddle Panhellenic Forum in our own Kappa room.

Oral History

Tommye Lou Davis Rene Taylor Beth Musgraves Gretchen Eichenberg

Highlights of 2020[edit]

Pre-covid chapter events of 2020 read as follows. January 11: 89 new members pledged Kappa. January 30: Big little reveal. January 31: New Member Dance with theme “Kappa Kappa Glow” where new members and dates and active members dressed in neon clothing, danced, and performed new member songs. February 1: KOT Fishery, philanthropy event. February 7: Sapphire Ball Formal. February 9: beginning of Inspiration Period for Initiation. February 14/15: Initiation of 89 new members. February 29: Participated in All-University Sing paired with Kappa Sigma for our act, “Ship of Dreams.” Received first place and a bid to Pigskin. Following spring break, we did not return to campus due to COVID-19. We began to adapt in the spring semester by sending out news letters to encourage and engage the chapter. Our social media presence during this time became another way for our chapter to stay connected. Our PR chairs created a beautiful postcard to mail to each of our members to the location in which they were quarantined. We began social media campaigns to encourage one another and stay connected, including “What we miss Wednesday,” “Sister Spotlight,” and “Senior Saturday.” Each of these were intended to highlight a particular member and share about what makes our chapter special to them. In addition, we began posting Instagram Stories for every members birthday, as we were not able to sing to them in meeting like normal. When we returned to campus in the fall, we began to hold virtual meetings every Tuesday at 5:15pm over Zoom. Our Philanthropy week took place November 8-14. This included a book drive for our local elementary school, Parkdale Elementary. We had profit shares all week at popular Waco restaurants which we promoted through our social media, including Andy’s Frozen Custard and Mamaka Bowls. On Thursday we had a Zoom Zumba class where participants paid $3 which went to RIF. On Friday we had a virtual raffle with amazing prizes including $100+ gift cards to local restaurants, football tickets, gift cards to local boutiques, and many more.

Reading is Fundamental, works with Parkdale Elementary weekly, reading to second grade students. This weekly practice was put on pause with COVID.This year we continued our partnership with Parkdale Elementary because our existing relationship has proved very effective. Our members love going each week and it's really fun to continue working with the same teachers and occasionally seeing some of the kids you've worked with before. We wanted to make sure we continue to establish a relationship with the Waco community. This provides the chapter with the opportunity to raise funds for Reading is Fundamental but also an opportunity to work weekly with local students who need extra assistance in reading. Even through COVID where we could not continue to meet with our students weekly, we participated in a drive-by at the beginning of the school year to encourage the students and show our support. To support Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion within our chapter, we elected two officers to support this effort. One officer’s responsibilities included communicating with Baylor’s Panhellenic community to support our community’s DEI efforts. Our second officer was elected to internally implement DEI within our chapter. Through chapter discussions and training, we have continued to make strides with DEI and look forward to continuing this growth and understanding in our community.

To celebrate Kappa’s 150th anniversary in a safe, socially distanced manner, we held a

virtual Founders Day ceremony over Zoom. In addition to the Zoom ceremony, we

delivered Chick-Fil-A to our member’s houses/apartments so they could enjoy dinner with

roommates while watching the ceremony. In addition to the ceremony and dinner, we

painted a banner and hung it for photos, as well as had a Snapchat filter for members to

celebrate and take photos. This made us feel close with one another as we celebrated from

a distance. Photos of the banner will be attached!


Disclaimer: all photos attached were taken before COVID-19 or are taken following social

distancing guidelines. Photos attached of members without masks are roommates.

Baylor pics


Highlights of 2021[edit]

This past year, our chapter has had the incredible privilege of welcoming in our New Member class, rebuilding traditions following the COVID-19 pandemic, and continuing to grow our chapter’s impact on the Waco community with our new philanthropy supporting children’s mental health. While the spring semester of 2021 was mostly virtual, our new members were given the chance to grow closer together with their member class and be a part of our organization amidst a global pandemic. Our chapter is proud to have had so many girls join Kappa during the spring semester, and with the start of the fall semester, we have begun to implement more in-person events again. Starting this fall, we hosted several sisterhood events specifically for MC 21, held our Lock-and-Key semi-formal in the fall, as well as showcasing our winning Sing performance, titled “Ship of Dreams” in Baylor’s Pigskin Revue which takes place every homecoming. Our float chairs also put together a beautiful NASCAR-themed float along with the help of our friends in the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity that was a hit in the homecoming parade. Our philanthropy chairs have led the charge in supporting Parkdale Elementary School, which has been a partner of Kappa at Baylor for nearly 30 years. We are proud to say that while there have been limits placed on how we can support the students at Parkdale, we have continued to assist them in any way we are able to and we are looking forward to continuing that relationship we have held with Parkdale Elementary for so many years. While this was an unprecedented year in our chapter’s history, we are proud to say that the Epsilon Upsilon chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma has come out stronger because of it. Chapter Philanthropy What local organization does the chapter support and why? Our chapter has been in the process of continuing our long-standing relationship with Parkdale Elementary School located in Waco, Texas. Starting in August, our chapter council voted to support a new organization focusing on children’s mental health, especially considering the impact that the pandemic has had on all elementary-aged children. The organization we voted to support is the Children’s Health and Mentorship Program, otherwise known as “CHAMP,” which focuses on supporting all aspects of children’s mental health and giving them a healthy environment to learn and thrive, especially following the mental strain that COVID-19 has had on all students, especially elementary-aged students such as those in Parkdale. How did the chapter support Kappa’s philanthropy? Due to the COVID protocols that Parkdale Elementary School has put into place, our chapter was not able to attend Parkdale on Fridays like we normally would during a year without social distancing policies. In order to accommodate for this lack of in-person support, our chapter held a “Drive-Boo” where we had a drive-through Halloween party for the students, a profit-share to raise money for CHAMP, and our philanthropy chairs have been working to continue fundraising events in the spring. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Our chapter has implemented a Diversity, Equity,and Inclusion chair in our chapter council. Our current DEI Chair, Kelsey Womack, has done an outstanding job in educating our chapter on how we can uplift our community at Baylor and act in such a way that is respecting and honoring to everyone who is on our campus and in our Waco community. Kelsey, along with her committee, shared devotionals about inclusion in our weekly chapter meetings and helped lead a worship night with a local fraternity on campus to grow closer as a Baylor community with the intention of growing in diversity and inclusion. Operating in a Pandemic In the spring semester, our chapter had virtual new member period, initiation, and chapter meetings. Along with the help of our Panhellenic council, we were able to have a socially distant event outside in April, where our new members were able to sing the songs they learned virtually from our recruitment chairs. This fall semester has held a strong desire to be back in-person, and our chapter council has held several in-person chapter meetings and social events in order to grow closer as a chapter. While we are supporting our philanthropy in a virtual setting, we intend to be back helping out on their campus as soon as they lift social distancing policies. Additionally, we are preparing to have a virtual open house day for our spring recruitment with in-person days following the virtual meetings. The lack of in-person events has certainly helped our chapter grow closer together and appreciate the time we now spend together outside of zoom!

Sisterhood
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