Epsilon Gamma
| Epsilon Gamma | |
|---|---|
| EΓ | |
 | |
| Founded | November 8, 1958 |
| College | University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill |
| Location | Chapel Hill, NC |
| Homepage | http://www.kappa.org |
| Media related to Epsilon Gamma Chapter | |
University of North Carolina established in 1789
Epsilon Gamma founded February, 1958
2, 061 initiates (as of 2011)
Some of Epsilon Gamma’s Outstanding Alumnae:
Fraternity Council Officers:
Fraternity Loyalty Award Recipients:
Fraternity Alumnae Achievement Award Recipients:
Dorothea Lowendick Bitler: Editor of The Key 1986-1988. Chapter Consultant at U of Virginia and earned her master’s degree there in communication.
Martha Hendrix Kaley: Ms. Kaley was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1992. She founded Friends for an Earlier Breast Cancer Test (Friends), a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting awareness and education and to raising funds for research into earlier detection of breast cancer. Since its inception in 1995, Friends has awarded nearly $3 million in seed grants to qualifying projects. It continues to offer several grants to be used for pilot projects in the area of early breast cancer detection. Friends awards up to $40,000 over a 1-3 year period.
The Early Years
Epsilon Gamma (EG) was colonized on the campus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in February of 1958, received its charter at the Bedford Springs, Pennsylvania, Convention that June, and was formally installed in November.
A unique chapter, it was the first and only “two-year chapter” in Kappa’s history. The University of North Carolina admitted junior women transfers, undergraduate girls who lived at home in Chapel Hill, and graduate students in some departments. Before 1925, it had been almost entirely a men’s university. A chapter made up of two-year students cannot function the same way as a chapter of four-year students. The members of Epsilon Gamma repeatedly wrote to Headquarters, “We cannot do this or that because we are different!” It was a great relief when sophomores were pledged; then freshmen. Later, first semester pledging was allowed. By the early 1970s, Epsilon Gamma had become a fine group of about 80 members ranking high on the growing campus of 18,000 men and women.
A small number of alumnae in Chapel Hill, Durham, Raleigh, and other small towns, along with Delta Beta Chapter of Duke University, helped Epsilon Gamma in making early plans. Rush parties were held in campus buildings and alumnae homes. Two Kappas from William and Mary and one from Duke transferred to give stability and to counsel the first 24 pledges who were initiated as charter members at the November 1958 Installation. Much was accomplished due to the able leadership, guidance, advice and loyalty of Frances Fatout Alexander of the Iota Chapter at DePauw University, a former Fraternity President. The university was helpful, making it possible for the girls to live in one dormitory only a short distance from what was soon to become the Kappa house at 302 Pittsboro Street. After a complete renovation, this house, near the university campus, made a beautiful home for 32 girls and a house director. The seventh sorority at the University of North Carolina was soon well established.
The Frances Alexander Award was created in 1960 when Frances Fatout Alexander, DePauw, served as Fraternity Vice President and former Mu Province Director of Chapters 1947-1952. Each year a girl was chosen by her sisters as having contributed the most to the chapter during the year and was honored by having her name engraved on a beautiful plaque displayed in the trophy case. The Louise Loomis Memorial Scholarship key was presented to the active with the highest semester average. It was named for a 1961 graduate who was killed in the Atlanta Art Tour plane crash. Louise had been a recipient of the Frances Alexander Award. A third award, a beautiful key, was worn for a semester by the girl showing the greatest improvement in scholarship.
An excerpt from the chapter newsletter, Hoots from the Hill, (1963) described the girls’ attitude toward scholarship: “ … after having won … for three consecutive semesters the Kappas retired the scholarship trophy last fall. It must have gone to our heads, for our standing fell to third place … however, the spring semester found us studying instead of talking about how much we have to do, and we have regained our position …” The trophy case showed not only several scholarship cups but also awards in Valkyrie sings, intramural sports and other campus activities.
Epsilon Gamma participated in community and university service working with the handicapped, a children’s hospital in Durham, with the mentally handicapped in Butner, tutoring in public schools and helping with recreational projects in the community. The members always took part in campus drives, politics, symposiums, fairs and many other university events. The members of Epsilon Gamma participated in one interesting research program with the Infectious Diseases Laboratory at the university’s School of Medicine in Chapel Hill designed to study respiratory diseases in college students. For several years, the chapter formed a central group that gave throat cultures and blood for antibody studies.
The chapter had members of Phi Beta Kappa and Valkyrie, presidents of the Young Women’s Christian Association Women’s Athletics Association, and assistants in the office of the dean of women. The chapter has had three members chosen as “Woman of the Year” by the university.
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 1970s:
Recruitment was very successful all years, with quota always being met. The chapter finances were well-handled, and debt was not an issue during this period. Many sisters held leadership positions in campus organizations, and several scholarship awards were given to the chapter. EG hosted for the Nu Province Meeting in 1975.
Housing:
With the growth of the chapter over the years, more space was needed to allow for chapter meetings as well as much-needed updates to the outdated kitchen and lounge areas. A renovation took place in 1978 that expanded the dining room, updated the kitchen, made a new lounge for the girls living in the house, and also updated the house mother's apartment. New landscaping was performed in 1979.
Highlights of the 1980s:
Crew-neck sweatshirts adorned with fraternity letters were a popular item worn in many pictures. A pledge ball, held each year, provided the chapter members a chance to wear beautiful gowns. Social functions were held throughout the day, including many morning events. These events were much more casual than events held today. For most of the events, members wore everyday clothes rather than dressing up for a specific theme.
Many of the members were active in a variety of groups on campus. These groups included Big Buddy, Community Link, the Daily Tar Heel, Yackety Yack (UNC Yearbook), Freshman Camp, and Inter-varsity. Many of these groups are still present on campus and many current members participate in these activities. EG had many members that were interested in campus, national, and international politics and affairs. One member was UNC treasurer and another member traveled to Russia to learn more about the culture. She visited with a group from the university and was surprised by the warmth and generosity of the Russian citizens. The member also noted that many of the soldiers did not want war. EG held a variety of fundraisers for the YWCA Coalition for battered women and the Campus Y. These fundraisers included a dinner and an Ice Cream social. EG received both the Greek community service award and the Greek scholarship award during the 1981-1982 academic year.
EG participated in Sigma Chi’s Derby Days and a Founder’s Day banquet at Duke in 1985. Other events included a pledge formal at Northridge Country Club, Parent’s Day, Shrimp and Beer, spring dance at the Big Barn, and a Stranger Mixer. EG held a faculty picnic with Delta Delta Delta. EG had the highest grade point average of all sororities. An event, Kappa Coffeehouse, showcased hidden talents of sisters. EG had four members of Phi Beta Kappa, ten Morehead Scholars, two Johnston Scholars, the Editor of the Yackety Yack (the University Yearbook), the Senior Class Vice-President, the Order of the Bell Tower President, a member of the Order of the Old Well, and five varsity athletes.
In 1987 the chapter held an overnight pledge retreat to the mountains of North Carolina. EG sent two delegates on the Panhellenic Council including the President. EG continued to be first in grade point average among sororities. EG receive the scholarship award at the Lambda Province Meeting.
In 1989 the chapter held its first Parents’ Weekend. EG held a faculty picnic with Kappa Delta. Other events included Greek Week, spring informal, a pig pickin’, and shrimp and sauce. EG had eight Morehead scholars, nine members of Phi Beta Kappa, and eight varsity athletes. EG had the highest GPA on campus among sororities and has maintained that status for at least eight semesters in a row. The scholarship committee organizes fall and spring scholarship banquets. These banquets recognize sisters with a 3.5 or above GPA, the sister with the highest GPA, the sister the most-improved GPA, and the Big/Little Sis pair who have the highest combined GPA. The Mayor of Chapel Hill spoke to the chapter about careers in public service.
Housing:
In the late 1980s, several chairs and a sofa were reupholstered so the downstairs living area matched. Pictures, tables, and accessories were added as well as track lighting. EG also has a “little house” next door to its main house. A new recliner, a new rug, and two reupholstered chairs were added to little house. EG also added a Treasurer’s computer room and was one of the few Kappa chapters with its own computer. EG did not have central air, but was hoping to get it soon!
Philanthropy:
One of the chapter’s neighbors was an elderly woman with a degenerative muscle disease which greatly impeded her mobility. Twice daily, members would go over and help her eat, get into her wheel chair, or simply keep her company.
Nursing home philanthropy project with Alpha Kappa Alpha, supporting a Mexican child, collecting money for UNICEF, annual pumpkin walk
Cookout with Lambda Chi for a handicapped group home was held in 1989 as well as bowl-a-thon for the Rose McGill fund and the American Heart Association
Chapter Convention Awards:
1984: Winner: Chapter Finance, Honorable Mention: Personnel and Scholarship; 57th Biennial Convention: Winner: Financial Excellence Award, Honorable Mention: Cultural Award,
Highlights of the 1990s:
The chapter was ranked first in scholarship among sororities on campus in 1990. EG’s chapter goal was unify diversity through increased chapter attendance, sister support, and respect for ritual. Events at EG included: Valentine’s cocktail, spring retreat, rush workshop, scholarship banquet, Parent’s Weekend, spring informal, faculty picnic, Shrimp and Sauce, Graduation banquet, fall picnic, stranger mixer, Founder’s Day banquet, pledge formal, fall retreat, surprise mixer, and a sister outing to see The Nutcracker. EG had nine members of Phi Beta Kappa, nine members of Phi Eta Sigma (Freshman Honor Society), a member of the homecoming court, a member of the Order of the Old Well, the Panhellenic President, three members of student government, a varsity athlete, and three members of the Loreleis (an all-female acapella group). EG tried to make rush practice enjoyable by dubbing “Rush Queens” each day.
EG accepted the “Challenge to Excellence” issued by the Regional Director of Chapters in 1991. As a chapter, EG decided to focus on improvement in participation, alumni relations, and officer reports. Events included: a scholarship banquet, Shrimp and Sauce, spring picnic, Graduation luncheon, and pledge formal. EG was ranked first out of all sororities on campus for scholarship. EG had four members of Phi Beta Kappa, two members of the Pauper Players, one member of the homecoming court, six members of the Order of the Bell Tower, two members of the varsity crew-team, a member of the women’s gymnastics team, and a member of the cross country team.
EG receive the scholarship award at the 1993 Lambda Province Meeting. Events included: informal at the Big Barn, Shrimp and Sauce, spring and fall picnics, cocktails at Valentine’s and Christmas, Sapphire Ball, ice skating, mixers, and Parent’s Weekend. EG also held its faculty picnic and Kappa alums gave a career program in which they spoke to the chapter about their careers. A new program to boost attendance was introduced called “Owls, Keys, and Fleur-de-Lis.” EG intramural teams won championships in swimming, wallyball, racquetball doubles, and grail basketball. EG was one of the top four intramural organizations on campus and qualified for the Super Teams competition. The chapter finished second overall and had three members of Phi Beta Kappa, the captain of the varsity gymnastics team, a member of student government and a Morehead Scholar.
EG won the Most Improved Chapter Award from the Greek Affairs Office in 1995/1996 and surpassed both the Greek and non-Greek GPA averages. At the Lambda Province meeting, EG received the scholarship award and the “Our Chapter, Our Choice” Award.
EG sisters participated in over 52 athletic, philanthropic, and leadership organizations both on and off campus. EG voted on the formal of a new trial office—Women’s Issues Coordinator.
To improve scholarship, the chapter started programs like “Nerd Nights” at the library, a pledge group scholarship competition, and “Smart Cookie” awards. To encouraging attendance, a stuffed owl was passed each at chapter to comfort a sister who was unhappy or overburdened, Kappa Konnection was started, a program that involved picking someone name out of a basket and making a special effort to get to know that sister better and do her a favor that week, and flowers were presented as “Sister Spotlights” to highlight achievements.
Events included: afternoon mixers, mixers with fraternities from Duke and N.C. State, roller-skating outings, theme-mixers like Paradise Island and Casino Night, Kappa Kidnap, fall and spring picnics, Parent’s Weekend, Shrimp and Sauce, Christmas and Valentine’s Day cocktails, formal, and informal. Three chapter members were on the staff of the Daily Tar Heel (the University newspaper), two members of the concert band, eight members of student government, two members of the undergraduate Honor Court, and one teaching fellow.
In 1996-1998 the chapter house was declared the safest house on campus. Many sisters travelled to the 1996 summer Olympic Games in Atlanta. Actress Ashley Judd, a Kappa Alumna, stopped by the house while working on a movie set. EG’s helped to clean up campus in the aftermath of Hurricane Fran. As a result, EG was featured on the local news and in the campus, Chapel Hill, and Raleigh newspapers.
Events included: a spring social, a pledge retreat to the Vineyard for a ropes course and games, movies, informal at Big Barn, St. Patrick’s Day Mixer with an Irish band, a Crush Mixer, Shrimp and Sauce, Bid Day Beach Bash, Mardi Gras Mixer, Toga Party, Pajama Party, Haunted Halloween, Disco Big Sis/Lil Sis, South of the Border, Wedding Mixer, 80’s Mixer, Kappa Kidnap, Parent’s Weekend, Hat’s Off (a pledge cocktail), Sapphire Ball, Christmas and Valentine’s Day cocktail, Carolina Freeze, Groundhog Day Grab-a-Date, and Thursday night television watching. Pledges made up lyrics to popular songs and serenaded the sisters at formal. They also wrapped the house in twine as a prank! EG invited alumnae for an afternoon tea. EGs logged over 2600 community service hours, the third highest of all sororities on campus.
EG won the “Strive for Pi” Award and first place for the trendsetters award at the Lambda Province Meeting in 1997. The chapter received honorable mention for Risk Management, the pledge program and scholarship. Events included: a founder’s day banquet with sister from Duke University and alums from around the state, informal at Big Barn, theme mixers, senior week, senior cocktail, school days bid day party, karaoke mixer, toga party, Halloween mixer, Big Sis/Lil Sis Day, 70s mixer, fall cocktail, parent’s weekend, and formal. EG offered a coffee break for local alumnae. EG had eight members of the Order of Omega, two members of the equestrian team, four members of the staff of the Daily Tar Heel, and two members of the Greek Judicial Board. EG was honored at the UNC Greek Affairs Chapter Excellence Ceremony for the highest GPA among sororities and fraternities.
Events held in 1999 included: spring picnic, formal, Kappa Kidnap, faculty picnic, a talent show, a Valentine making party, Valentine’s cocktail, new member retreat, fall cocktail, and Founder’s Day banquet. EG increased the number and frequency of sister-only events to include, spring picnic, Shrimp and Sauce, roller skating, holiday parties, movie nights, and “Pamper yourself” nights. EG had six members of Phi Beta Kappa, two members of the women’s glee club, two members of the Golden Key National Honor Society, and six members of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars.
Housing:
In 1990, EG had house parents. The house was resided and repainted. The hardwood floors were restored, new carpet was installed, and the yard was improved. In 1991, redecoration and minor reconstruction was done. Walls were repainted and furniture was replaced. In 1994, “little house” was completely remodeled. New floors, new furniture, and new decorations were added. In addition, the study room of the main house was redecorated. In 1995-1996, the dining room was decorated and a sprinkler system was added.
In 1996, emergency lights and lighted exit signs were added. In 1996-1997, the kitchen was completely redone with new furniture and prints on the walls. Little house was painted and redecorated. A big screen TV with surround sound was added in the living room. In 1997-1998, improvements included: chairs for little house, reroofing, new equipment for the kitchen, weatherproofing, new windows, motion detection, flood lights, umbrellas for patio tables, and new dining room doors.
Philanthropy:
1990: NC Memorial Hospital Pediatric visit, MRA Dance, donation to Human Rights week (from selling parking spots during football games), Derby Days (EG raised $400 for the NC Pediatric Hospital)
1991: Habit for Humanity, Head Start, IFC Soup Kitchen, Special Olympics, Orange County Women’s Center
1994: Derby Days (EG raised $1000 for the Children’s Hospital), donation to the Children’s Hospital from selling parking spots during football games, IFC Council, soup kitchen, Ronald McDonald House, Kidsread Program, Friends to the Elderly, Special Olympics, Trick or Treat for Orphans
1995-1996: “Change for Charity” (change jars in dorms, $500 raised for the Orange County Rape Crisis Center and $200 for the Rose McGill Fund), Christmas Angel 1996-1997: Ronald McDonald House- EGs cooked and served meals and made a $1300 donation raised from “Finals Food Packs” sold to parents of EGs; “Kappa Angels” (sponsorship of a low income family from Ephesus Elementary for Christmas), walk to raise money for “Friends You Can Count On”,
1997-1998: A walk to raise money for “Friends You Can Count On,” Footbrawl (co-ed flag football tournament benefiting the Women’s Center), pancake dinner to raise money for Derby Days, Kappa Angel, sponsoring a family at Thanksgiving
1999: Breast cancer walk, Dance Marathon, Bloodmobile
Chapter Convention Awards:
1990: Scholarship, 1991: Scholarship, 1996-1997: Heritage Award
Highlights of 2000-2010:
EG holds several events each year for just its members whereby the bonds of Kappa are strengthened. Some of these events include: • Kappa Fiesta • Dance Parties • Jordan Lake Cookouts • Karaoke • Game Nights • Movie Nights • Holiday Dinner • Sisterhood Retreats
Epsilon Gamma kicked off 2005 with a Harry Potter themed dinner on January 12th. Each member was assigned to the Owl House, the Key House or the Fleur-de-lis House. The goal of dividing the chapter was to encourage chapter, campus, and Pan-Hellenic involvement. Early in January, the sisters enjoyed a pizza and movie night where they watched “Napoleon Dynamite” and spent time together as a sisterhood. The sisters enjoyed a gathering with the brothers of both Alpha Epsilon Pi and Delta Sigma at W.B. Yeats just before kicking off informal recruitment. Spring, or informal recruitment, began on January 31st when current sisters began bringing potential new members to the house for meals. The current sisters and potential new members enjoyed a barbeque dinner at the house and a women's basketball game on February 4th.
In the Valentine’s Day spirit, the sisters invited many potential new members to join in their all-sister event of making Valentine's Day cards and cookies, and for a showing of "The Notebook" on February 13th. On Wednesday February 16th, EG held a Kappa Lu-Owl, a Hawaiian themed preference night dinner. The following Friday, the sisters offered bids to five well-suited young women to join the Kappa sisterhood. They celebrated with pizza at the house and an evening of ice skating.
The New-Member Chairman kicked off a Key Sister Appreciation Week with an all-sister cup and frame decorating night during the first week of March. During this week the younger sisters were encouraged to show their appreciation for their older Key sister. Pre-formal was held at W.B. Yeats on March 4th.
The annual Sapphire Ball was held at the Carolina Inn on the following evening. The new members were initiated into the Epsilon Gamma Chapter in early April. Shrimp and Sauce was held at He's Not Here.
A handful of sisters attended the Nu Province meeting at Duke University in mid-April. Here, the women gained knowledge about the neighboring chapters and about ways to improve EG’s fraternity life. Epsilon Gamma received awards for their outstanding informal recruitment and their excellent alumni relations at the meeting. The sisters enjoyed study breaks with snacks provided by their house mom during the final exam period in May.
On September 7th, the sisters welcomed their new fall 2005 pledge class with dinner at the house followed by bowling. On September 10th, EG held their Shrimp and Sauce party at Pantana Bobs. The sisters ate shrimp and enjoyed a beach music band. The new member retreat at Camp New Hope on September 17th helped the fall 2005 pledge class to learn more about each other and the fraternity. Goldie's hosted EG's Kappa Krush fall cocktail in late September. To close out September, many of the sisters worked at the NC State/Carolina football game serving concessions aiding Broughton High School in Raleigh, North Carolina. The sisters welcomed their families to Chapel Hill during the first weekend of October. The families enjoyed a cocktail at Spanky's, a football game and a Sunday morning tea all planned by the Public Relations Chair.
On October 11th, the sisters enjoyed a Founders Day Banquet and archives displayed at the house during dinner. The new members and their Key Sisters participated in Inspiration Week starting October 24th. During this week, Key sisters exchange gifts, learn about EG traditions, and celebrate all things Kappa. The conclusion of Inspiration Week was held on Friday night with a southern-style Blue and Blue Banquet and paddle exchange. EG initiated its new pledge class on October 29th.
During November, EG hosted their traditional alumni weekend. On November 11th, Epsilon Gamma hosted its semester scholarship banquet. During the banquet members were honored for individual achievements which included two members being inducted into the order of Omega, twelve members being inducted into Gamma Sigma Alpha, and two members being honored with requests to join Phi Beta Kappa. Informal was held on November 18th at West End Wine Bar. Chapter elections were also held in late November, where a promising chapter council was elected. The final event of the year, Kappa Kissmas, was held at Carolina Coffee Shop in early December. During December the sisters were encouraged to stop by the house to take exam study breaks and to spend time together before the winter break.
In 2005, the archives display occurred on the same day as Epsilon Gamma's Founder's Day Banquet. To celebrate Kappa Kappa Gamma's heritage, the chapter held a birthday party in the dining room. The Education Chairman and Registrar played a fabulous game of "Guess Who?" using Kappa Kappa Gamma's six founders. The members' knowledge of Kappa Kappa Gamma’s founders was tested and furthered during the dinner and game. A set of Epsilon Gamma’s chapter bylaws, information about Kappa's Headquarters and Kappa's history were available for each member to read. Scrapbooks from Epsilon Gamma's past were also available for the members to get a sample of what life at Epsilon Gamma was like in the recent past.
Overall, 2005 was a great year for Epsilon Gamma filled with enthusiasm, friendship, honor, and scholarship. The sisters look forward to their future together as members of Kappa Kappa Gamma.
Epsilon Gamma’s began 2008 with officer installations at formal chapter on January 9, 2008. The LEAD seminar was also held during January. Organized by Vice President of Organization, the seminar brought together the chapter councils of UNC, Duke, and Wake Forest to work on leadership and delegation skills. Spring recruitment practices began on January 13th, with spring recruitment beginning on the 22nd with the sisters inviting potential new members to join them for dinner at EG. Recruitment ended with Preference round and voting on January 30th.
On February 1, Epsilon Gamma had their spring bid day with the sisters and the new members going to see the film “27 Dresses” and then returning to the house for dinner. New member pinning occurred the next Wednesday. The new members had a slumber party for their new member retreat on February 8-9, bonding over movies, games, and time with their soon-to-be sisters.
The sisters of EG celebrated Valentine's Day with a cocktail at Tallulah's. Planning for fall recruitment began early in the year, with recruitment workshops on March 2nd and 30th. Inspiration Week began on March 24th with firesides every evening, paddle exchange, Blue and Blue banquet, and spring initiation. The sisters hosted a staff appreciation dinner on April 3rd, and then ended the first week of April with the Sapphire Ball held at the Franklin Hotel on the 5th. Epsilon Gamma was the first Greek organization to have a formal event at the Franklin Hotel, which was especially exciting for the Social Chair.
The sisters had a lovely time at formal and look forward to holding the ball at the Franklin again in 2009. On April 12, the chapter hosted the Tar Heel Trot benefiting Friends for a Earlier Breast Cancer Test under the direction of the Philanthropy Chair. The rest of April and the beginning of May was busy for the sisters of EG with classes ending and final exams. The sisters participated in a number of different activities over the summer, some working or attending classes in Chapel Hill, others traveling or studying abroad, and others spending time at home.
Recruitment was extremely successful for EG, who reached quota on bid day, and celebrated by taking the new members to Frankie's Funland --- playing laser tag, bumper cars, and arcade games. New member pinning followed on the 10th, and the new member retreat was held the following weekend. The sisters held their Fall Cocktail at La Rez on August 26th. Parent's weekend was October 3-6 with a cocktail and a family cookout/brunch. The sisters celebrated Kappa Kappa Gamma's Founders Day on October 13th with a banquet and a presentation of the archives. Inspiration Week began on October 20th and ended with Initiation on the 26th. This year, Kappas from Wake Forest University joined Epsilon Gamma for the Blue and Blue Banquet and Initiation and the EG sisters enjoyed meeting and spending time with Kappas from the Zeta Psi chapter.
In 2008, the Epsilon Gamma archives were displayed on October 13, 2008 at the Founders Day Banquet. The Education chair led the chapter in an activity to determine which founder each sister was most like in personality. Pictures and information on each of the founders was displayed, as well as Epsilon Gamma scrapbooks, for sisters to look at before and after the banquet. A lot of archives were also displayed at the 50thAnniversary celebration. Old photo albums, composites, and a slide show were shown.
50th Anniversary Celebration:
On Saturday, November 8, 2008, EG celebrated its 50th Anniversary. To commemorate the occasion, the sisters organized a weekend full of events that coincided with UNC’s Homecoming. More than 100 alumnae traveled from all over the country to celebrate EG's 50th with the active members. That Friday evening, the active sisters hosted a welcome reception to embrace the alumnae back into the Kappa house, the only sorority house on campus still in its original location. At the reunion, members enjoyed refreshments and catching up with old pledge classes while listening to an a capella performance by the Tar Heel Voices. The next day, the sisters attended a cookout and tailgate together before heading to UNC’s Homecoming football game against Georgia Tech, in which the Tar Heels were victorious. On Sunday, the final day celebrating the birthday of EG, sisters gathered one last time to indulge in a delightful brunch at the Carolina Club. All together, the weekend was a great success. EGs, new and old, were proud to congregate and celebrate their fraternity’s presence on campus for 50 years. They are already looking forward to planning the chapter’s 75th Anniversary.
In 2009, many events stood out for the members of Epsilon Gamma. A very successful recruitment was held toward the end of January which included going to Build-a-Bear to make stuffed animals to donate to the North Carolina Children’s Hospital. Bid Day was held at the local ice skating rink. Valentine's Day Cocktail was held on February 13th at the Varsity Theater. The unique location added a feeling of old Hollywood glamor, which perfectly fit the theme of "A Red Carpet Affair."
On February 24th, a mixer, themed "Rumble in the Jungle," was held at the restaurant Vespa with the Delta Upsilon and Delta Sigma Phi fraternities. Animal print was very popular that night, and everyone had a great time. March 16th-20th was Inspiration Week for the Spring pledge class, culminating in the Blue and Blue Banquet on the 20th. The spring pledge class was excited about receiving paddles from their big sisters, and spent a lot of time decorating the paddles for their big sisters. Initiation was held on March 21st, and it was a very special time for all of the new Spring girls, as well as the rest of the chapter, since they could finally welcome the new girls as sisters.
On April 3-4, 2009, the Nu Province meeting was hosted at UNC-CH. EG won an Honorable Mention in Philanthropy, an Honorable Mention in Recruitment and the Heritage Award. The day went very smoothly, and all of the sisters enjoyed getting to meet sisters from other schools and participate in different seminars.
To end the Spring of 2009 were our Pre-formal and Formal dances, which were held April 16th and 17th, respectively. Pre-formal was held at the Recovery Room, and Formal was at the Franklin Hotel. Formal went beautifully, and the meal was delicious.
Fall of 2009 was another great semester for Epsilon Gamma. Recruitment was held during September 4-10. Preparing for recruitment was very exciting for all of the sisters with the implementation of a new skit for the skit round, themed "Kappa Kappa Glam Records." Bid Day was held at BounceU, which made for a fun way to get to know all of the great new girls that had decided to pledge KKG. On September 17th, a mixer was held with Delta Upsilon and Pi Kappa Phi. The theme was Kappa Cup, and everyone had a great time finding big, elaborate hats and getting another wear out of their summer sundresses. The "P is for Party" cocktail was held on September 24th at Jack Sprat. People chose costumes ranging from pirates to princesses to policemen, and even a Portuguese Man-O-War jellyfish. It made for a fun night of discovering just how creative all of the sisters really are. On October 11th, Epsilon Gamma had a chance to travel down the road to mingle with their sisters in the Delta Beta chapter at Duke University for a celebration of Founder's Day. It was great being able to meet the sisters and share in the celebration of Kappa's founding.
October 26th-30th marked Inspiration Week for the new Fall Pledge class, and paddles were exchanged between the new big and little sisters before the Blue and Blue banquet on the 30th. Initiation was held the 31st which, as always, was very exciting for Epsilon Gamma. Elections for the new Chapter Council officers for 2010 were held on November 18th, and a great new chapter council was chosen by the chapter. A sisterhood retreat was held December 4th through 5th at Camp Don Lee in Arapahoe, N.C. This was the first ever all-chapter retreat. It was fun to be able to spend time with everyone outside of campus, and playing capture the flag. The leadership activities held the next day were a great way to learn more about each other and build confidence and leadership abilities. Also, in 2009, an EG Kappa was elected Pan-Hellenic President. The year finished with anticipation for the new decade and more fun times in 2010.
January 2010 started off strong as Epsilon Gamma Chapter’s new Chapter Council took over and the members prepared for Membership Recruitment. To kick off Membership Recruitment, potential members were invited to two dinners at the house. During the philanthropy round, the fall pledge class and the potential members went to Build-A-Bear and made bears to donate to the North Carolina Children’s Hospital. The outing allowed the potential members to get to know the members of their future pledge class before enjoying an ice cream social with the entire chapter.
On Bid Day, the new members and members enjoyed decorating tiles at Paint the Pot. Members and new members enjoyed the first social event of the year at the end of January. On February 6th, EG held the 11th annual Tar Heel Trot, which benefits Friends for an Earlier Breast Cancer Test. The members and new members enjoyed cheering on and providing refreshments for the runners who braved the winter weather. Members and new members also collected books to donate to a local elementary school as part of Reading is Fundamental. Each member and new member placed a bookmark and personalized bookplate into their book. Some members then delivered the books during their monthly visit to the elementary school.
Later on in February, members and new members enjoyed dancing and socializing at a Valentine’s Day cocktail. As Initiation approached, EG received exciting news that Delta Beta Chapter would be joining Epsilon Gamma for Initiation. In March, EG and Delta Beta Chapter initiated their new members together at the EG house.
A fun NASCAR mixer and the annual Sapphire Ball wrapped up the social events for the semester. Sisterhood events during the semester included a new member retreat, a Valentine’s Day cookie making event, Big/Little reveal, participation in Kore groups, and a tie-dye event. EG also held a benefit dinner to help support UNC’s Relay for Life.
During finals, members enjoyed treats and study breaks before their summers began. In June, several members attended the 68th Biennial Convention. While attending, the members participated in philanthropy activities for Reading is Fundamental, attended seminars on a variety of topics, and had the opportunity to meet members from other chapters.
August 2010 brought the beginning of fall semester and all the members were excited to reunite and begin preparing for Membership Recruitment. During this time, EG hosted a leadership consultant. She was a great asset as we practiced for Membership Recruitment. As Membership Recruitment began, all the members were enthusiastic to meet the potential new members. On Bid Day, EG welcomed our new members and everyone enjoed a picnic concert featuring campus a capella groups.
An EG was crowned “Miss Greek 2010” at the First Annual Greek Week Competition. EG won a Fire Safety Award for perfect inspections. Our first function was a blast as members and new members danced the night away in togas.
After experiencing harsh weather in February, our Tar Heel Trot chair decided to move the race to October and secured a prime date during Parents Weekend! EG held a pre-race benefit dinner that was a certified green-event.
During Parents Weekend, members, new members, and their families enjoyed a family brunch at the house on Saturday and many attended the football game. On Sunday, many parents and siblings participated in the 12th Annual Tar Heel Trot. The members and new members enjoyed cheering all the runners and the familiar faces made it especially fun.
The middle of October brought a neon mixer, which provided an opportunity to dress in fun, bright clothes. New members discovered who their big sisters were before a sisterhood event to the North Carolina State Fair.
For Founders Day, Epsilon Gamma Chapter was invited by the Greater Raleigh Alumnae Association to an event at the North Carolina Executive Mansion. North Carolina Governor Bev Perdue is an alumna of the Beta Chi Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma at the University of Kentucky and is the first female governor of North Carolina. The members and new members were honored to be invited and enjoyed meeting alumnae. Many members and new members were fortunate enough to have the opportunity to meet the governor.
At the beginning of November, Epsilon Gamma Chapter initiated the new members. The next week brought elections for the 2011 Chapter Council. Later in the month, members enjoyed getting dressed up and dancing the night a way at informal. After Thanksgiving, a Tacky Holiday mixer was a fun way to relax before the stress of finals arrived. During finals week, members received treat bags and were able to relax during a study break at the house.
Our sisterhood was strengthened through the many events of 2010 while practicing the ideals of Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity. EG had a successful 2010, and the members look forward to another successful year in 2011.
Housing:
KKG is the only fraternity house on the UNC campus still in its original location.
Philanthropy:
Tar Heel Trot, a 5K to support Friends for an Earlier Breast Cancer Test (Friends). The first Tar Heel Trot was held in 2000. Between 2000 and 2010, EG raised over $80,000 for Friends. In October 2009, the chapter was recognized by Friends with the 2010 Named Grant Award at the 14th Annual Gathering of Friends in Greensboro. The naming of a grant from Friends for an Earlier Breast Cancer Test is an honor that has only been conferred on five occasions over the fourteen year history of the organization. This honor is the most prestigious recognition that can be awarded by this non-profit organization.
In 2009, EG established a reading program for the E.K. Powe Elementary School in Durham, North Carolina. Sisters go to the kindergarten classes once a month to read to the children and play educational activities. EG held a book drive to kick-off Kappa's new reading program. Sisters raised over 120 books which were given to the children and the school. The program will continue in the fall. The sisters love going to the school as much as the children and teachers love having them.
EG held two philanthropy dinners during the 2010-2011 year, in the spring, a Chili dinner which benefited UNC Relay for Life and in the fall, a “Kappa Keeps it Green” dinner to support Friends for an Earlier Breast Cancer Test. All utensils, plates, and cups were compostable and the dinner was certified by the Carolina Green Events Committee. EG also held their 11th and 12th annual Tar Heel Trot. The average community service hours reported per member was 34.0 hours for the spring semester and 25.2 hours for the fall semester.
In addition, sisters at Epsilon Gamma chapter are involved in many different types of philanthropic events. Epsilon Gamma Kappas and alumnae volunteer through the South Orange Rescue Squad. Sisters also had a hand in contributing to a successful Dance Marathon, a fundraiser benefiting the North Carolina Children's Hospital. The chapter sponsorship coordinators to dancers. Relay for Life was also a popular event. Kappas participated in committees and teams, walking the night away for cancer awareness.
The chapter women support activities hosted by other Greeks and are involved in several philanthropies outside of Kappa, such as:
•Rotoract •Millennium Village Project •Kidzu Children’s Museum, •Historic Stagville, •V Foundation, •UNC Hospitals
Chapter Convention Awards:
68th Bicentennial Convention 2010: Honorable mention awards in Finance and Advisory Board Relations.
Highlights of 2011-2019:
Events in 2011 included: Big Barn Bash and Sapphire Ball.
Housing:
Philanthropy:
Build a Block (a program to build housing for families of employees of the University)
Chapter Convention Awards:
Highlights of 2020s:
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.:
Housing:
Philanthropy:
Chapter Convention Awards:
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!
