| Epsilon Eta | |
|---|---|
| EH | |
 | |
| Founded | March 23, 1963 |
| College | Auburn University |
| Location | Auburn, AL |
| Homepage | Epsilon Eta Homepage |
| Media related to Epsilon Eta Chapter | |
Auburn University established in 1856 in Auburn, Alabama
Founded March 23, 1963
17 charter members:
Dorothy Lee Blackard, Cheryl Ann DeVenny, Virginia Lee Durham, Lulie Radcliff Edmonson, Elizabeth Marthella Field, Carole Diane Frech, Emily Whiting Hobbie, Jane Handley Lane, Judith Annettte McLeod, Sandra Gail Norrell, Mary Kennon Petranka, Linda Elaine Shelfer, Betty Sue Shore, Rebecca Jo Slawson, Christina Starling, Susan Gail Summerlin, Shirley Rebecca Walker.
2,676 initiates (as of June 2018)
Some of Epsilon Eta’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.)
Fraternity Council Officers:
Fraternity Loyalty Award Recipients:
Fraternity Alumnae Achievement Award Recipients:
Additional Outstanding Epsilon Eta Alumnae: Deborah Wehle (Anderson), Graduate Counselor 1977-1979; Josette Baxter (Perez), Chapter Consultant 1985-1987; Lisa Kruse (Carter), Chapter Consultant 1988-1990; Jacquelyne Moore, Chapter Consultamt 1991-1992
Contents
The Early Years
Inspiration in the naming of colleges and college buildings comes more often in a flash after a substantial check has been received than after a poem has been read, yet Auburn University’s name was derived from one in spite of the fact that the author never did well in school, was a problem student, a dropout and an educational drifter. This poem was Oliver Goldsmith’s Deserted Village: “Sweet Auburn! Loveliest village of the plain.”
The university’s earliest name, not inspired by poesy, was East Alabama Male College. Chartered by the Methodist Church in 1856, it opened its doors to students in 1859, only to close them again during the War Between the States, when the main building was used as a hospital for military casualties. In 1862, after the Land Grant Act was passed, the church donated the college to the state, and the first Land Grant college in the south, separate from the state university, was established as the Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical College. In 1892, women were admitted, inaugurating college coeducation in the South. In 1899, its name changed to the Alabama Polytechnic Institute, and in 1960 the name was changed by the legislature to Auburn University.
The university had been on the Kappa official list as a possible extension site for several years, when, on May 16, 1962, the Panhellenic of Auburn issued an invitation to the Fraternity to establish a chapter. In June, the campus was inspected by Ruth Bullock Chastang, Ohio State, then Fraternity extension chairman, and by province officials. Their report was enthusiastic, and a recommendation of colonization was presented to the Fraternity Convention in Asheville, N.C. Epsilon Eta Colony, to become Alabama’s second Kappa chapter, was underway.
A February 1963 date for Colonization was changed to September 1962 due to pressure from Kappa alumnae living in Alabama. Fast action by Frances Fatout Alexander, DePauw, ended in furnishing the newly painted dormitory suite assigned to the Kappas-to-be with furniture acquired from Delta Beta Chapter at Duke University. By September 19 when Fraternity officers and other alumnae began to arrive, the suite was ready, and on September 24, Epsilon Eta Colony was born. Installation weekend for the new Kappa chapter was March 22–24, 1963. By that time, the Duke chapter furniture had been augmented with Kappa china sent from Fraternity Headquarters and silver coffee pots, flat silver and glass serving plates from the Boyd Hearthstone, which had been closed.
The suite, with a key-shaped knocker, was the scene of Fireside and pledging services. Installation of the 17 charter members took place in the Baptist Student Center. Present were Mary Turner Whitney, Cincinnati, Fraternity President; Dorothy McCampbell Nowell, Texas, Director of Chapters; Clara O. Pierce, Ohio State, Executive Secretary; Frances Davis Evans, Ohio State, Chairman of Chapter Finance; Jean Hess Wells, Georgia, Mu Province Director of Chapters; Elizabeth Adams Harrison, Tulane, Mu Province Director of Alumnae; Frances Alexander, National Panhellenic Delegate; and Ruth Chastang.
Gamma Pi Chapter, University of Alabama, was the installing chapter, and members of Delta Upsilon Chapter, University of Georgia, made up the choir. Dr. Miriam Locke, Alabama, was the speaker at the gold-and-white banquet held in the ballroom of the university Union Building. Gifts to the new chapter included a gavel, silver punchbowl, trays and candlesticks from the Emory, Alabama, Mississippi and Georgia chapters; and the Houston, Texas, and Baton Rouge, La., alumnae. The Epsilon Eta Advisory Board presented a silver bowl to be engraved annually with the name of the active member with the highest GPA, and Advisory Board Chairman Sue Fox Hatcher, Tulane, gave a brass chalice to be used in Initiation. Florida State offered a replica of an antique badge for an award pin.
Epsilon Eta came into existence at a time when Greek organizations were under considerable pressure to do just that. Before the chapter was one year old, its members represented the group on Mortar Board, Who’s Who of American Women, Phi Kappa Phi, the University Symphony Orchestra, the Plainsman (student newspaper) staff, Angel Flight, Calendar Girls and as sweethearts of seven fraternities and dormitories. The strength and determination of these fine young women gave Epsilon Eta a firm foundation among 11 established sororities (the two youngest had already been on the campus seven years at the time of the Epsilon Eta charter). Strong sororities and keen competition put the young chapter to the test. Much support from Kappa alumnae—national, area and local—contributed greatly to the chapter’s steady growth.
In fall quarter 1969, Epsilon Eta brought its scholarship rank from a devastating 12th place (out of 13 sororities) to a joyful, exuberant first. There was the 10th anniversary reunion in 1973 when many of the 300 Epsilon Eta initiates gathered in the chapter room in Dorm II to find old friends and meet new ones. The chapter was too young to experience a generation gap. And there was the Auburn–Alabama football game in the fall of 1973 when the winner of the Epsilon Eta–Gamma Pi Runathon for Cancer was announced. Auburn was defeated by Alabama in football, but the Epsilon Etas returned home victorious, having raised $10,515 for the American Cancer Society. Together the two Kappa chapters earned $20,715—what better way to demonstrate the worth of our Fraternity.
The previous information was excerpted from The History of Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity, 1870-1976. The information that follows has been gleaned from available resources including Chapter History Reports, chapter meeting minutes, letters and comments from chapter members and alumnae, the Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity Archives, and The Key. Each chapter is expected to update its history record annually. Contact Fraternity Headquarters at kkghq@kkg.org with questions.
Highlights of the 1980s
Eta Epsilon’s chapter goal in 1985 was Information: The Key to Involvement. The chapter wanted to increase involvement in campus and chapter events by making sure that all members were fully informed about campus and chapter events and responsibilities. As a result, better participation and attendance was achieved. At the end of 1985, the chapter had 128 initiated members and 52 pledges. Overall, the chapter ranked second on campus scholastically, and the Epsilon Eta seniors were ranked first on campus academically. During this year, the chapter was proud to have a Kappa selected to be the yearbook editor and Kappas elected to be senators in the student government. Other sisters participated in the University Programs Committee, Model United Nations, International Business Club, Marching Band, Mortar Board, sports teams and many major related associations.
The chapter goal, overall size and pledge class size remained consistent in the mid-1980s. The chapter redoubled its academic efforts as by 1987 its ranking had slipped to 11th on campus (by 1988 it was back up to sixth). The chapter motto in 1987 was “Attack the Slack” which applied to all parts of chapter life. This included organizing cleaning crews for the hall and chapter room with positive results. Chapter events in 1987 included Monmouth Duo, spring and winter formals, secret Easter bunnies, a bowling party, Founders Day and a kitchen shower for the chapter.
In 1988, the chapter held an anniversary banquet for actives and alumnae to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the chapter’s founding. Also in this year, Epsilon Eta helped welcome Sigma Kappa to the Auburn campus. Chapter activites in 1989 included a pledge formal in Montgomery, Ala., a Blue Sapphire Ball in Atlanta, Ga., a homecoming tea and a scholarship banquet. The chapter also co-hosted Professors Night Out where they babysat the children of university professors for an evening. The Kappas and the Zetas had a scholarship challenge in the winter of 1989. Whichever chapter had the highest GPA from the winter term had to host the other for an ice cream party. The Kappas were proud to be the Zetas’ honored guests! Epsilon Eta won the Active-Alumni Relations Award at the 1989 Nu Province Meeting.
Housing: At the end of spring 1989, the chapter packed up for the move to the quad dorms at the start of the fall 1989 term while their home, Dorm K, was renovated.
Philanthropy: The chapter held a Balloon Derby with Sigma Chi in 1985 during which more than 5,000 blue and orange ballons were released. The proceeds from the derby went towards child abuse prevention. The chapter also participated in the philanthropy events of other greek groups such as Derby Days and Anchor Splash. Epsilon Eta hosted the Balloon Derby in 1987 with Sigma Phi Epsilon. This year, $1981 was raised for the Make-a-Wish Foundation.
The 1988 Ballon Derby benefited Child Find of America. This year, Chi Phi helped the chapter with the fundraiser, and almost 6,000 balloons were released, raising $3500. Eta Epsilon’s 12th annual Balloon Derby was held in 1989 with Phi Gamma Delta. Eight thousand balloons were released before the Auburn-LSU football game, raising $5855 for Alabama Special Olympics.
Highlights of the 1990s
In 1990, the chapter goal was to have 100% percent attendance during recruitment and to take quota. The members were pleased to achieve both, and also with their 50 new pledges to go along with 120 active members. (The chapter size remained fairly consistent during the decade.) Chapter activities in early 1990s included Monmouth Duo, Greek Week, Senior Banquet, Founders Day Banquet, formals, parent picnics and a Scholarship Banquet.
Epsilon Eta members were involved in many campus groups in the ‘90s, including Catholic Student Union, Sailing Club, Marching Band, Panhellenic, Italian Club, intramurals, Mortar Board, International Business Club, Spanish Club, Glomerata (yearbook) and Campus Republicans. Also, several members were little sisters for various fraternities and sports teams. In 1997, the chapter goal was to have 90 percent of sisters involved in two groups outside of the sorority.
In 1991, the chapter goal was to be above the all-women’s average each quarter, scholastically. The stated chapter goal in 1992 was to achieve a 2.9 average/quarter, which would be increased to 3.0 when this was achieved. Evidence of the chapter’s success was noted in 1993, when the chapter was ranked fifth on campus scholastically and was above the all-women’s sorority average. The GPA goal was increased to 3.1 in 1995. By 1998, the chapter GPA goal was 3.14. (Strive for Pi)
The chapter had a very active year in campus life in 1995 with sisters participating in Miss Greek Week, Miss Fall Rush, Miss Auburn University, Greek Sing and the Auburn University Talent Show. The same year, Epsilon Eta sent 17 members to the Nu Province Meeting at Ole Miss.
In 1998, the chapter celebrated its 35th anniversity on March 23rd with a banquet. Approximately 100 alumnae attended the celebration. During the banquet, there were two Kappa speakers (an active and an adviser), and the chapter performed a rush skit.
At the end of the 1990s, more than 30 percent of Auburn’s 22,000 students were Greek, and there were 16 sororities on campus. The chapter had 150 active members, and each year the pledge class numbered approximately 50.
The end of the decade brought the adoption of the New Member Program to replace the pledge period and the introduction of the Philanthropy Round during recruitment.
Convention Award: Epsilon Eta was awarded an Honorable Mention for Gracious Living for a housed chapter at the 1998 Convention.
Housing: Before the beginning of the fall 1990 quarter, the chapter moved back into its newly renovated chapter room in Dorm K. The chapter worked hard to get everything unpacked before rush began. Over Christmas break in 1994, the chapter moved into a new chapter room on campus in Dorm M. This new chapter room was remodeled in 1997.
Philanthropy Epsilon Eta held their its Ballon Pop in 1990. Instead of releasing balloons as had been done in previous Balloon Derbies, the balloons were filled with prizes and given out at the Auburn-UGA game. The chapter, with help from Beta Theta Pi, raised $6500 for Alabama Conservancy (to protect Alabama’s dolphins). In December, pledges visited Eaves Retirement home to deliver Christmas cards and goodies to the residents. In 1991, the chapter held a carnival in conjunction with Tau Kappa Epsilon that raised $500 for the Children’s hospital in Birmingham, Ala.
During the mid-1990s, chapter members made monthly visits to Wesley Terrace, a nursing home. In the late 1990s, the chapter adopted Children’s Services as its philanthropy. Through Children’s Services, the chapter visited Moton Day Care Center each Friday to read to children. The chapter also donated books to the day care center. Epsilon Eta also participated in Kappa’s Holiday Giving Program.
Highlights of 2000-2010
Technology brought a new opportunity and challenges to Epsilon Eta. Social networking was a new venue, and Auburn University embraced this media by creating an Auburn University Social Network where members only could post such items as philanthropy events but which also showed some members with pictures and other information.
In 2009, athletics included first place in swimming and diving.
For its outstanding contribution to philanthropy, Epsilon Eta was awarded the Philanthropy Award at the Xi Province Meeting.
In 2010, the Auburn Tiger football team had a historic season. Led by Heisman Trophy winner Cam Newton, the Tigers were undefeated and ranked number one in the BCS ranking. Sisters arrived at the games two hours early to ensure their favorite lucky spot, yelling the entire game. Many also traveled to away games as far as Kentucky.
A favorite activity in 2010: all of the sisters came out for a great night of fun and bonding at Frog Legs, an indoors bounce house location. Everyone had tons of fun bouncing, racing and playing games all night Athletics in 2010 included first place in tennis, bowling and softball and the Jean Dean RIF Run to Read Participation Award.
Greek Sing began before finals in December of 2010 when a member was nominated as this year’s head, bringing three prior years of Greek Sing experience along with the determination to make this year’s dance Kappa’s best ever. As try-outs started the first two weeks of school in January, she and the dancers hit the ground running. Practices commenced with girls meeting three days a week, cleaning on the dance, perfecting props and orchestrating stunts. The best part of Greek Sing, in the eyes of the dancers, was getting to know their sisters from other new member classes.
Convention Award: House Board Award
Epsilon Eta began a tradition of raising money for Reading Is Fundamental, the new national philanthropy of Kappa Kappa Gamma. A chili cookoff judged by the local fire department was held and continues to be held each year. In 2010, it featured the Ryan Kinder Band.
In addition, the chapter participated in Kappa Alpha Theta’s philanthropy, Theta Throwdown, in which each sorority competes in a short dance competition. Kappa received third place.
Highlights of 2011
In August 2011, the chapter council held a leadership retreat to get back into the swing of the semester. The retreat was held in the Eagle’s Nest overlooking the Auburn campus with speakers from the Auburn University Center for Leadership & Ethics. Chapter officers participated in activities such as True Colors and other leadership building exercises as well as creating a plan and goals for the upcoming semester. Epsilon Eta welcomed 67 amazing new members on Bid Day 2011.
Proctored study hours began in the chapter room with yummy snacks. On Dead Day in April, a Sisterhood Event was held at the Auburn University Challenge Course. First we did a team building exercise where we had to all balance on the same platform. Then we did a smaller scale version of the High Ropes Course, where we could practice maneuvering in the harnesses. We were all paired up and worked with a partner who went through the course with us to make sure we were clicked in safely - talk about trust!
Athletics in April found the softball intramural team winning the game that clinched Epsilon Eta’s spot in the playoffs. An additional honor was a first place in swimming and diving 100-meter backstroke. Sixteen officers were able to attend Xi Province Meeting, and Epsilon Eta was honored to win the Xi Province Recruitment Award.
On April 15th, about 25 of our members helped out at Auburn University’s Relay for Life event. This was an all-night event in which different teams were formed in order to help raise money for the American Cancer Society. Our Kappa team sold some delicious snacks and drinks in order to donate money to this incredible cause. We kept up our fundraising and walked around the track at the Beard-Eaves Coliseum until we were one of the last few teams left participating. Despite the rain, we had an incredible time being with each other and helping out the American Cancer Society.
In support of our national philanthropy, Reading Is Fundamental, our chapter held our seventh-annual Kappa Chili Cook Off on April 2nd in which teams entered their pots of chili for a taste test. Auburn city firefighters were our honored judges for the day and picked the winning chili teams. In addition, there was also the Crowd Favorite Award.
On April 2nd, we held our annual Scholarship & Parents Banquet in which scholars for the semester were recognized and a video slideshow was created to commemorate the past year’s activities as well as honor our 45 graduating seniors. Girls who had a GPA over 3.5 were given GiGi’s gift certificates as a reward for their hard work and dedication to their studies. We are truly blessed to have so many girls who value their education.
Highlights of 2012
January 17 – 26 Continuous Open Bidding COB consisted of two parties. The first was a scavenger hunt, and the second was a movie night in the chapter room.
February 4 Auburn University Dance Marathon A Kappa team participated at Auburn’s first Dance Marathon benefitting Children’s Miracle Network. Kappa Came in third place.
February 14 Kisses for Kappa Kappa held a benefit night at Chill, a local frozen yogurt café. The money raised was donated to the Red Cross.
March 23 Sapphire Ball Sapphire Ball was held in Atlanta, at the Fabulous Fox Theater in the Egyptian Ballroom.
April 1 Initiation of Continuous Open Bidding girls
April 10 Greek Sing Kappa participated in the Panhellenic dance competition. Our theme was “Rags to Riches”. The money raised by ticket and T-shirt sales was given to Habitat for Humanity.
April 21 Kappa Chili Cook-off and Parent’s Weekend The spring philanthropy event was a chili competition. We raised about $5,000 for Reading is Fundamental. We had a live band as entertainment and had several guest judges, including Miss Auburn and several Auburn football players. Later that night we had a Parent’s Banquet at Greystone Mansion.
August 7 – 13 Fall Recruitment Recruitment consisted of 2 days of Ice Water Teas, 2 Philanthropy Days, a Skit Day, Pref Day, and Bid day.
October 13 Initiation and Founder’s Day Celebration 68 girls were initiated, and then were invited to a Founder’s Day brunch with their families. Several seniors spoke, and the Kappa Pickers performed.
October 20 Run to Read Kappa participated in the local RIF warehouse 5K, where we had girls both running in the race and volunteering.
November 30 Fall Formal Formal was held at the Auburn Hotel.
Panhellenic Awards: Panhellenic Scholarship Recipient – Marlena Gillis Alpha Omicron Pi’s Lori Hart Ebert Award for Outstanding Dedication to the Collegiate Chapter – Kelsey Lott Alpha Delta Pi’s Lyn Edward Angell Award – Kristina Passi Kappa Alpha Theta’s Bettie Locke Award for Outstanding Panhellenic Participation – Epsilon Eta Chapter
Convention Awards: Honorable Mention for Academic Excellence
Philanthropic Involvement Our chapter is lucky enough to have a RIF warehouse very close to campus. The entire chapter helps out every fall and spring semester. We help organize and label thousands of books during our time there. We also participate in book drives and events such as chili cook-off competitions and benefit nights at local restaurants.
Chapter Challenges and Goals Challenges: Reaching academic goals Attendance at events, both Panhellenic and campus. Morale at events
Goals: Work to bring grades up to our chapter-wide GPA goal Increase attendance at events
Chapter Strengths: Recruitment involvement and morale Strong ties to our national philanthropy Informative New Member Programs
Campus Life Auburn has a beautiful campus with a wonderful and friendly atmosphere. Recent changes to campus include the building of the new Student Activity Center, set to open in the spring of 2013.
Chapter: Kappa is a wonderful group of girls who are genuine and caring. They are true a representation of the blues of sky and sea. Differences in majors range from industrial engineering to apparel merchandising to pre-med. Campus involvement ranges from Camp War Eagle councilors to college ambassadors to women on the equestrian team.
Highlights of 2013
Summary- Previous Calendar Year
January •17: Continuous Open Bidding Party #1 •21: Continuous Open Bidding Party #2 COB - parties were recruitment parties to meet potential new members. •23: Continuous Open Bidding Bid Day COB-Bid Day was a dinner to welcome the six new members. •26: 50th Anniversary Celebration - The 50th Anniversary was a celebration of Epsilon Eta’s 50th year on campus. There was a brunch and a tour of the facilities and then a banquet that evening with over 400 kappas in attendance. Laura Young Palmer was our guest speaker. •27: Continuous Open Bidding Formal Pinning - COB Formal Pinning was the pinning of the six new members.
February •12 & 19: COB Key Sister Dates - New members went on scheduled dates with active members to meet their potential big sisters before the Big/ Little reveal. •26: Big/ Little Reveal - Big Little Reveal was an event to reveal the 6 new member’s big sisters.
March •2: Spring Formal - We dubbed this formal the “Cotton Ball” as it was held at a barn in Wilsonville, AL. •22: Continuous Open Bidding Fireside - COB Fireside was the first day of initiation held at St. Dunstan’s followed by a dinner at four actives’ house. The new members ate, played games and reflected on their time as new members. The actives, who happened to be senior that all previously served as officers, shared their favorites experiences in Kappa over their time. •23: Continuous Open Bidding Initiation - COB Initiation was held in our facilities with alumni followed by a brunch with the newly initiated members’ parents. •24: Philanthropy Kolor Run - We changed our spring philanthropy this year from a Chili Cook-off to a Kolor Run. The ‘Kolor Run’ was the first color run on to be held on Auburn’s campus. It was a 5K and at each kilometer we threw colored powder at the runners. So at the end of the 5K they were covered in color. It was structures as a fun 5K attracting students and members of the community. We raised over $8,500 for RIF. It was a huge success!
April •6: Ropes Course Sisterhood Event - We went to a local ropes course called the Auburn Adventure Course. This served as a great opportunity to bond and foster sisterhood. •11: Greek Sing - Greek Sing is an all sorority dance competition. We competed with the theme “British Invasion.” •20: Parent’s Banquet - The Parent’s Banquet was held in the ballroom in the Student Center. It gave the parents an opportunity to see what all Epsilon Eta did throughout the year. In addition, it honored our seniors and congratulated members with academic success.
August •9: Pre-Recruitment - The active members and alumnae got everything ready for recruitment through training sessions and sisterhood events. •12: Recruitment begins - There were two Ice Water Tea Days, two Philanthropy Days, Skit Day and Preference Day. •18: Bid Day - Welcomed the New Members! •19: Formal Pinning - Formal Pinning was the pinning of the 60 new members. •23: New Member Retreat - The New Member Retreat was held at Chewacla State Park. The retreat included hiking and hammocking as well as icebreakers and bonding games. The new members also had a picnic dinner together.
September •14: Parent’s Tailgate - Before the football game against Mississippi State, the parents of Kappas were invited to mingle and have a BBQ dinner. •22: Big/ Little Reveal - The New Members were given a letter and a bag with costume pieces in it. The new members were then released to the green space to find the Big that’s costume matched theirs. Some of the most creative pairs were Ms. Frizzle and the Magic School Bus, a Where’s Waldo Book and Waldo, and Peanut Butter and Jelly.
October •1: Miss Greek Week - Cailyn Gray was our phenomenal representative for Kappa in this pageant. Each sorority elects a representative and all the money raised benefits The Boys and Girls Club. •4: Fall Formal - Formal was at Del’avant in LaGrange, GA. •12: Fireside/ Kappa Kozy - The new members had sisterhood event at Robbie Hyde’s house to get to know each other before initiation. Dinner was provided and after dinner the new members played board games, watched movies, and reflected on their time as new members. •13: Initiation - The 60 new members were initiated. We had the help of 13 alums and it went very well! •15: Founders Day - The Founders Day event was held at the Alumni Center with actives and alums from the area. Actives put on the program, Kappa Pickers sang, and desserts were provided. •16: Book Fair - At the book fair, we invited all members of Auburn’s Project Uplift to come have a snack, hear a story read by Miss Auburn University, and receive a book of their very own.
November •2: Run to Read - Run to Read is a philanthropy event put on by our local RIF Warehouse, Jean Dean RIF. It consists of a 5k, 10k, and a one-mile walk. Epsilon Eta’s members serve as the main volunteer pool for the race. So, we did everything from registration, traffic, food and kids events. We also had Kappas participate as well. •7: Coffee House - We held a Kappa Kappachino to benefit our local Philanthropy Jean Dean RIF. During this event, anyone on campus could come to the chapter room and enjoy sweet treats after paying an entrance fee to benefit RIF. We raised $1,525! •18: Miss Fall Rush - Mary Eleanor DeRamus represented Kappa in this pageant. This pageant serves a Delta Sigma Phi’s fall philanthropy. Each sorority has a representation and a winner is crowned. They were judged based off the three main events that took place during the pageant; game day wear, the talent competition and evening wear.
New Member Programs
Our new member period was 8 weeks long. Once a week during this period, new members attended meetings with the New Member Chair to learn about all about Kappa Kappa Gamma. Each week different officers would come in and present small presentation that went along with the programs in the Kappa Handbook and other Kappa new member materials.
Swaps Swaps are events held for the newest pledge class along with one other Greek organization’s newest pledge class. Each event has its own theme and/or activity. Some of their favorite activities this year included a pumpkin decorating contest and a paint fight.
Social - Socials are events held with all pledge classes along with at least one other Greek organization’s entire chapter. Themes change per social as well. Some of the recent themes include Olympic themed, When I Grow Up and Thrift Shop Prom.
Group Honors/ Awards 2013 AU Dance Marathon Participation Award 2013 Xi Province Award for Excellence in Recruitment 2013 Better Steger-Moulton Panhellenic Award Recipient- Kristina Passi 2013 Panehellenic’s Most Outstanding Recruitment Chair- Susie Bridges 2013 Katherine Cooper Cater Panhellenic Scholarship Award Recipient- Jordan Kirkland 2013 Kappa Kappa Foundation Scholarship Recipient- Mary Catherin Banister
Philanthropic Involvement Each semester, we have a workday at our local RIF Warehouse. We go to sort and label books or help out with whatever they need. Once a week throughout the year, we take a group of members to read to and do activities with a local day care close to campus. We also periodically hold drives to collect books and attend book distributions.
Chapter Goals: Chapter Budget presentation Stern use of Focus Plan Clean up social media Use alumni connections made at the 50th Anniversary event Foundation presentation for CAYA chapter More sisterhood events Committee plan of action Panhellenic updates at every chapter
Chapter Strengths: Understanding of Risk Management Appreciation of Ritual Involvement in Recruitment Bid Day
Campus: Auburn’s campus is warm and welcoming filled with tons of smiling faces. An addition to campus this year is the new Recreation and Wellness Center. It includes an indoor track, an outdoor pool, a rock climbing wall, courts, group fitness studios and more!
Chapter: Kappa is full of lovely ladies who care about each other and love being a part of a sisterhood. While each girl has her own interests, we all love doing things together and becoming closer as sisters!
Highlights of 2014
January
๏ 15: Greek Sing Auditions - Began auditions for our annual Greek Sing competition.
๏ 16: Greek Sing Auditions - Completed Greek Sing Auditions.
• 25: RIF Warehouse Day - Our chapter supported RIF by volunteering at our local RIF warehouse. These days are were our chapter goes and organizes books that will later be sent out to kids who need them.
• 26: RIF Warehouse Day - Our chapter finished the weekend off by helping out our local RIF warehouse.
• 30: Social - “Winter Olympics” was the chapter’s first fun-filled social of the year. Girls dressed up as figure skates, skiers, and even the Olympic Rings! It was a great way to start of the new semester.
February
• 11: Social - Our chapter enjoyed a fun social that’s theme was “When I Grow Up”. Members dressed up in creative costumes that represented what they want to be when they grow up.
•Sisterhood Event - The chapter room was turned into a movie theater for the night. All pledge classes were invited to come the chapter room and watch movies together. Movie night is a easy way for the girls to bond.
• 21:Recruitment Workshop - A workshop was held for members who were new to recruitment, and for them to learn about the ins and outs of the recruitment process.
March
• 1: Parent’s Banquet - Parent’s Banquet was at the Greystone Mansion. The Greek Life advisor came and spoke the chapter and their parents. Some members of the chapter were presented awards to the members for their outstanding grades to promote academic excellence. The parents loved getting to meet all of their daughters’ friends and having an event planned for them.
• 18:Sisterhood Event - We just love Movie night! For this month’s sisterhood even we had another movie tonight, since the first one was such a success.
• 22: Sapphire Ball - Our chapter hosted our Sapphire Ball on March 22, 2014. It was held at the B&A Warehouse in Birmingham, Al. The girls look beautiful in their long dresses, and made memories to last a lifetime.
April
• 5:Relay for Life - Our Chapter supported our own sister, Beth Beyers who was fighting her own battle with cancer, at Relay for Life. At Relay for Life we won the Most Spirited Award.
• 6: Senior Tea - The chapter gave our seniors a tea in order to celebrate their years as a Kappa, and reflect on their years in Kappa.
• 10: Greek Sing - Greek Sing is a Panhellenic dance competition between all of the sororities on campus. The proceeds benefit Habitat for Humanity. This years theme was Kappa Kappa Getway and was a beach like theme that the girls had a lot of fun with. We started practicing in January and it was a great way for girls in different pledge classes to get to know each other and form better bonds.
• 11:Sisterhood Event - The chapter went on an outside adventure for this April sisterhood event. Members of our chapter enjoyed a Ropes Course. The chapter enjoyed being outside and getting fresh air, as well as getting to know more about each other.
• 21:RIF Distribution at Ridgecrest and Sisterhood Event - Epsilon Eta supported a local preschool by distributing books to them that came from our local RIF chapter. RIF Distribution is a favorite day among many girls as we get to see how excited children where to receive books from them.
๏ After some hard work at Ridgecrest, the chapter room was opened for another movie night. Members of all pledge classes came together to watch movies, and relax after volunteering earlier that day.
• 26: Kolor Run - Our chapter supported RIF by putting on a Kolor Run. Our chapter threw colorful cornstarch onto runners who came out to support us. All of the proceeds benefited Reading is Fundamental.
August
• 7-9: Pre-recruitment - Active members and even some alumni prepared for recruitment.
• 10: Ice Water Teas Day 1 - Kappa began the first day of Auburn’s University largest recruitment, by hosting over a thousand girls.
• 11: Ice Water Teas Day 2
• 12: Philanthropy Day
• 13: Skit Day
• 14:Preference Day
• 15: Bid Day - Epsilon Eta welcome all of the new members to Kappa! The new pledge class wore smiles as they took their first pledge class picture. In total, Epsilon Eta gave out 82 bids to 82 amazing girls.
• 17: New Member Picnic and Class Tours - New Members had a picnic the day before classes where they were able to meet some of their new sisters. Also, older girls volunteer to help show the freshmen were their classes where, so they wouldn’t be lost.
• 22: New Member Formal Pinning - The new members received their new member pins at Formal Pinning.
• 23: New Member Retreat - New Members enjoyed a day at Lake Martin, and were hosted by an alumni at her house. They enjoyed their time bonding together and getting to know their new sisters. The girls had fun in the sun, as the laid out on the piers are swam in the cool waters of Lake Martin.
• 26: Big Little Speed Dating - Speed dating was held after chapter in the chapter room. This was one way for new members to meet potential bigs. Freshmen talked to a different sophomore every five minuets, in hopes of finding a big.
September
• 2: Social - Our Chapter held a “Rave” social in which members dressed up in fun, neon color attire. It was the first social of the year, and the first social of many for new members.
• 4: Swap - The new members attended their first swap with AGR. The girls were able to meet new friends as the enjoyed the swap thats theme was messy twister.
• 11: Swap - The new members attended a paint fight swap with DTD.
• 15:Sisterhood Event - Our first sisterhood event of the new school year was a simple movie night in the chapter room. This was an easy way for the new members to meet some new faces, and for other pledge classes to meet them.
• 18: Swap - The new members attended a swap with Phi Sig and participated in a shaving cream fight.
• 20: Fall Formal - The Fall Formal was held in Columbus, Georgia at the River Mill Convention Center. The chapter loved the venue, and the entertainment which was the Park Band.
• 21: Big/Little Reveal - New members were given a pair of socks and then let out into the yard to find the girl with the matching pair, who would become their big. Big/Little Revel is a special moment for every girl in Kappa as they get an immediate special bond with someone that day.
• 23 : Swap - New Members attended a swap with Delta Sig and participated in a water balloon fight.
• 24: Kick Hazing to the Fleur - Kappa participated in Kick Hazing to the Fleur Day. Members signed a banner and they stated why they do not haze. As a chapter we strongly believe in loving our sisters, and do not tolerate hazing.
• 25: Swap - The new members attended a swap with Farm House the theme was risky business.
• 27: Parent’s Tailgate - Kappa welcomed parents to the Plains by hosting a Parent’s Tailgate in front of the chapter room before the Homecoming game. The parent’s love getting to see their daughter and also enjoying an Auburn football game.
• 30: Swap - New Members attended a luau themed swap with Phi Tau. Hawaiian leis and grass skirts were common attire at this fun filled swap.
October
• 7:Swap - New Members attended their last swap with Sigma Pi and the theme was ABC. It was fun and bittersweet as the girls would miss all the swaps they went too.
• 10: Fireside Cozy - The new members enjoyed a delicious dinner and made s’mores as they bonded before initiation day. They were hosted by three actives at their house, before returning to the chapter hall in the Village for the night.
• 11: Initiation - The 67 new members were initiated in to Epsilon Eta. After initiation, many of the girls were surprised by their families who came to see them on such an important day.
• 14:Founder’s Day Celebration - The chapter celebrated Founder’s Day at the Auburn Alumni Center. The chapter was entertained by the Kappa Pickers after enjoying desserts.
• 21: Miss Greek Week - Shannon Smith represented Kappa in Auburn’s Miss Greek Week Pageant. Miss Greek Week is a Panhellenic Pageant in which girls competed in interview, evening wear, and game day attire. Shannon was a wonderful representative for Kappa Kappa Gamma.
• 23: Kappa Kappacino - The chapter room was turned into a coffee house for the night. It was five dollars for all unlimited coffee and desserts. All proceeds benefited RIF and the Kappa Foundation.
• 24:Sisterhood Event - With Halloween right around the for this sisterhood event, the chapter decided to go to a hunted farm. The girls enjoyed Pope’s Haunted Farm right here in Auburn.
• 30:Social - The chapter celebrated Halloween with a social. The girls got creative with their Halloween costumes and many of them dressed up in groups.
November
• 1: Run to Read - Run to Read was a philanthropy event, in which Kappas volunteered to either work it or run the 5k,10k, or fun run. Some girls even dress up as RIF’s mascot, Clifford.
• 3: Project Uplift Book Fair - The chapter invited Project Uplift children to the chapter for a book fair’s theme which was “Around the World”. While the Project Uplift children were read books by members about different countries.
• 6: Sisterhood Event - Yoga Fly, a local yoga studio, was nice enough to host the chapter at their studio. For this sisterhood event, we enjoyed a relaxing yoga class. This was a great way for the members to get fit and become closer as sisters.
December
• 2: Social - The chapter finished the year off together with a Christmas social, named Kappa Kissmas. Each girl brought a date, and the social was held at the Hound.
New Member Programs
• Over the course of a few weeks, prior to initiation, new members attended meetings with the New Member Chair to learn about rituals and history of Kappa.
Swaps
• Swaps are events held for the newest pledge class along with one other Greek’s organization’s newest pledge class. Each event has its own theme and/or activity.
Socials
• Socials are events held with the entire chapter along with at least one other Greek organization’s entire chapters. Themes change per social.
Groups Honors/Awards
• 2014 Convention Honorable Mention in Gracious Living • 2014 Convention Honorable Mention in Recruitment • 2014 Convention Reading Is Fundamental Award Winner
Throughout the year, we help our local RIF Warehouse, in different ways. We have
warehouse days in which we sort and label books, and days where we distributed the
books to children. As well as events such as Kappa Kappachino where we raised money
for RIF and the Kappa Foundation. Also, three to four girls a week volunteer to read at a
Ridgecrest Preschool.
Chapter Challenges and Goals
Challenges:
• Understanding Chapter Budget • Raising the Chapter’s GPA • Encouraging Involvement on Campus • Enhancing Sisterhood Experience • Understanding of Chapter History and Heritage • Taking Ownership of Facilities • Encouraging Panhellenic involvement
Goals:
• Raise chapter GPA • Chapter Budget Presentation • Encourage Attendance at Panhellenic • Kappa Trainer on Involvement • Social Media Presentation • Share Facts about the Chapter • Pledge Class Sisterhood Events • Encourage Involvement in Chapter
Chapter Strengths:
• Involvement in Recruitment • Philanthropy Events • Understanding and Appreciation of Kappa Ritual • Understanding of Risk Management Policies
Campus Life
Campus:
Auburn’s campus is warm and welcoming filled with tons of smiling faces. This year the new Wellness Kitchen opened on campus. This all you can eat style dinning features the best tasting and healthiest food on campus. It is just one of the many ways Auburn continues to promote its students’ health and fitness.
Chapter:
Kappa is full of lovely ladies who care about each other and love being part of a sisterhood. While each girl has her own interests, we all love doing things together and becoming closer as sisters.
Highlights of 2015
January
• 22: Social
• To start of the new school year, the chapter enjoyed a Ski Lodge Social. The social took place with AXD and AGR, and everyone came out in their best ski attire.
February
• 6-8: Provence
• Chapter Council officers and advisors attended Provence in Atlanta, Georgia. There they had a fun time during the pajama party after a long day of learning about Kappa.
• 12: Social
• To celebrate Valentine’s Day, the chapter held a social. The theme was Cupid’s Choice, and it was held at 1716.
• 15: Warehouse Visit
• Members of the chapter spent time at our local RIF Warehouse. At Warehouse visits, girls in the chapter arrange book and package them to be sent off to children in need.
• 22: Warehouse Visit
• Members once again went out and supported our local RIF Warehouse.
March
• 1:Recruitment Workshop
• With the most exciting time of the year just around the corner, the chapter began to prepare for recruitment.
• 7:Sisterhood Event
• Our chapter traveled to the Montgomery Zoo to spend the day together.
• 8: Recruitment Workshop
• Another workshop was held, to better prepare for recruitment.
• 12:Philanthropy Event
• The chapter held a Benefit Night for Reading Is Fundamental and the Kappa Foundation, at a local restaurant. Uncle’s Maddio’s was gracious enough to host this event.
• 15: Philanthropy Event
• The chapter hosted its third annual Kappa Kolor Run. The Kolor Run, is the chapter’s largest philanthropy event of the year. All proceeds benefit Readings is Fundamental and the Kappa Foundation.
• 19: Kappa Dinner
• The chapter enjoyed a delicious dinner in the chapter room. Our chapter loves Kappa Dinners, as it allows us to spend more time with our sisters.
• 31: Convocation
• The chapter attended our Phanellenic Council’s Convocation. One of members, Sarah Perez was presented an award. !
April
• 9: Social
• The chapter held a #tbt themed social. Members came out and wore there favorite 90’s attire.
• 16: Kappa Dinner
• The chapter had another delicious Kappa Dinner. Members enjoyed the food and spending time with one another.
• 19: Parent’s Banquet
• The Chapter invited the member’s parents to Auburn for a banquet. The banquet was held at the Opelika Event Center.
• 25: Formal
• With the end of the year close, the Chapter finished it off with a formal. Formal was held at the Webster House in Auburn, AL. !
August
• 7:Pre-Recruitment
• Members enjoyed getting to see each other after summer. We prepared for recruitment, and go to know our LC, Jo.
• 8-13: Recruitment
• 14:Bid Day:
• Epsilon Eta welcomed 97 new members! The theme for Bid Day was Kappa Karnival.
• 21:Formal Pinning:
• The new members received their new member pins. !
• 22: New Member Retreat
• New Members enjoyed their retreat at Lake Martin. The girls got to get to know each other and start making memories with another.
• 27: Freshmen/Sophomore Kappa Dinner
• Freshmen and Sophomores enjoyed pizza in the chapter room as a way to meet potential Bigs/Littles.
September
• 8: Social
• The first social of the year was a tropical theme social.
• 15: Swap
• New members had a Space Jam themed swap with FIJI
• 17: Swap
• New members had a messy twister with AGR
• 22: Swap
• New members had a paint swap with Lamba Chi
• 23: Kappa Dinner
• All members enjoyed a delicious meal in the chapter room.
• 26: Parent’s Tailgate
• The chapter invited parents to join them for a tailgate before the Auburn vs Mississippi State football game.
• 27: Big/Little Reveal
• After the long wait, new members got their Big sisters.
• 29: Philanthropy Event
• The chapter hosted its annual Kappa Kappacino in the chapter room. It was five dollars for unlimited desserts, coffee, and live music. The line was out the door for this successful fundraiser for RIF.
October
• 1: Swap
• New members had a thrift shop themed swap with KA
• 9: Fireside/Kappa Kozy
• Fireside was held at St.Dustan’s in downtown Auburn. Kappa Kozy was hosted by a local alumni, and new members enjoyed a catered meal from Olive Garden.
• 10:Initiation/Founder’s Day
• After all our new members were initiated, we held a celebration for Founders Day at Auburn’s Alumni Center.
• 13:Swap
• The 2015 Pledge class had an ABC swap with PIKE.
• 22: Kappa Dinner
• All members enjoyed a delicious meal from Chiptole in the chapter room.
• 24: Philanthropy Event
• The chapter helped our local RIF Warehouse by volunteering for the Run to Read 5k.
• 24:Formal.
• Our Fall Formal was held at the Overall Company in Opelika, AL . • 29:Swap
• New members had a toga themed swap with SAE.
• 29: Panhellenic Event
• Miss Panhellenic is a pageant in which one member from each sorority competes. The chapter came out to support our representative.
November
• 5: Philanthropy Event
• The chapter hosted its annual Project Uplift Bookfair. Boys and girls who are mentored by Project Uplift, come to the chapter to be read books and get to leave with that’s just for them. !
• 16:Sisterhood Event
• The chapter had a sisterhood event at a local clothing store Behind the Glass. Behind the Glass stay open after hours just for us, and also gave members a discount.
December
• 3: Social
• Our last social was a Christmas cocktail at the Supper Club.
• 6: Dead Day Brunch
• Brunch was provided in the chapter room so that girls would be nice and energized to study for finals.
New Member Programs
• Over the course of a few weeks, prior to initiation, new members attended meetings with the New Member Chair to learn about rituals and history of Kappa. !
Swaps
• Swaps are events held for the Freshman pledge class along with one other Greek’s organization’s newest pledge class. Each event has its own theme and/or activity. !
Socials
• Socials are events held with the entire chapter along with at least one other Greek organization’s entire chapters. Themes change per social. !!!
Groups Honors/Awards
• Sarah Kelley was awarded Student Female Leader of the Year at Auburn’s Student Involvement Awards.
• At Convocation Sarah Perez received an award.
• Kappa was named Auburn’s Dance Marthon Miracle Cup Winner’s. !
Philanthropic Involvement !
Throughout the year, we help our local RIF Warehouse, in different ways. We have warehouse days in which we sore and label books, and days where we distributed the books to children. As well as events such as Kappa Kappachino where we raised money for RIF. !!
Chapter Challenges and Goals !
• Better Academics
• Chapter Image
• Campus Involvement
• Chapter Unity and Sisterhood
• Better appreciation of Kappa
Campus Life
Campus: !!
Auburn’s campus is warm and welcoming filled with tons of smiling faces. Jordan Hare, Auburn’s football stadium, recently added the new Jumbotron. The Jumbotron is the largest in the nation. It is an overall great addition to the Auburn game day experience that Kappa’s enjoy here. !!!!
Chapter:
Kappa is full of lovely ladies who care about each other and love being part of a sisterhood. While each girl has her own interests, we all love doing things together and becoming closer as sisters.
Highlights of 2016
Over the 2016 year we have done a few different things with our philanthropy events. Instead of a 5K color run in the Spring we did a Kappa Karnival with different games and bouncy house for families in the Auburn/Opelika area to enjoy. We also hosted two events in the Fall.
We held a Kappa Con Queso, which is where we offered cheese dips and catering from Moe's Southwestern Grill for people to enjoy. In addition to the Kappa Con Queso we still hosted the Kappa Kappacino later on in the Fall. One of our new members was granted her wish from Magic Moments. Our chapter also received an award for Top Sorority Fundraiser from Auburn university Dance Marathon. At convention Epsilon Eta was given the Adelphe society award for our donations to the foundation.
We redid the chapter room. It is now a grey color with new furniture and decorations. Auburn's campus is adding onto the library.
We continue to raise money for Reading is Fundamental. A portion of our proceeds go to the national philanthropy, but we also work directly with the RIF chapter in Opelika, AL. We also have a lot of girls in our chapter that donate a lot of their time towards Auburn University Dance Marathon.
We chose RIF because it is Kappa's national philanthropy, and Opelika has a local chapter.
Highlights of 2017
This year the Epsilon Eta chapter was involved in a RIF distribution day, shop nights, had our Kappa Con Queso event, our Kappaccino, and several benefit nights. As a chapter we received the Bettie Locke Award for Outstanding Panhellenic Participation. This award seeks to recognize a collegiate chapter that exemplifies the true spirit of belonging to the National Panhellenic Council, “upholding the traditions, fine standards, and values long held by Auburn women.” We also raised money and donated to relief for the flooding in Houston, to support our sisters who were affected by the flood. Our chapter also had trouble filling our sorority hall, we overcame it by having the freshmen sign the housing contract the night of bid night. Our chapter donates money to Reading is Fundamental and the Kappa foundation. We have been chosen to host a Girls' Academy, so money is also being raised for that event.
In 2017, Auburn added a new nursing school building to the campus and added the Mell building to the Library. Einstein's Bagels was added in the Haley Center, and RBD Café was added into the library. We continue to hold our chapter meetings in our chapter room on campus.
Highlights of 2020s:
Note to Chapter Registrar: Please refer to your chapter archives including chapter meeting minutes and back issues of The Key to fill in any gaps in the above historical highlights. If your chapter archives are not complete, please research your university library, campus newspaper and yearbook archives for newsworthy information about your chapter. Please double check your work for accuracy. Contact chapter Advisory or House Board members, local Alumnae Association members, or your Province Director of Chapters for assistance. Your efforts will ensure a complete and accurate history of your chapter for future generations to enjoy!