St. Bonaventure University is a private, Franciscan university located in Allegany, New York. It has a relatively small student population of around 1,800, which creates a close-knit community atmosphere on campus. Sororities are an important part of campus life at St. Bonaventure, providing female students with opportunities for personal growth, leadership, and community service.
There are three sororities currently recognized by St. Bonaventure University: Alpha Sigma Tau, Delta Phi Epsilon, and Sigma Gamma Phi. Each sorority has its own unique history, traditions, and philanthropic initiatives.
Alpha Sigma Tau was founded in 1899 at Michigan State Normal College (now Eastern Michigan University). The sorority’s motto is “Active, Self-reliant, Trustworthy,” and its colors are emerald green and gold. Alpha Sigma Tau’s philanthropic focus is on promoting the empowerment of women and raising awareness about mental health issues. The sorority hosts events like the “Embrace Your Body” campaign, which promotes body positivity and self-confidence.
Delta Phi Epsilon was founded in 1917 at New York University Law School. Its motto is “Esse Quam Videri,” which means “To be, rather than to seem,” and its colors are royal purple and pure gold. Delta Phi Epsilon’s philanthropic focus is on supporting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. The sorority hosts events like “Deepher Dude,” where male students can participate in a beauty pageant to raise money for the foundation.
Sigma Gamma Phi was founded in 1994 at St. Bonaventure University. Its motto is “Women of Strength, Unity, and Grace,” and its colors are royal blue and silver. Sigma Gamma Phi’s philanthropic focus is on supporting organizations that benefit children, such as the Make-A-Wish Foundation and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The sorority hosts events like the “Greek Week Dance-Off,” which raises money for its chosen philanthropy.
In addition to their philanthropic work, each sorority at St. Bonaventure University has its own set of traditions and events that are unique to their organization. For example, Alpha Sigma Tau hosts an annual “Sisterhood Retreat,” where members can bond and participate in team-building activities. Delta Phi Epsilon hosts an annual “Deepher Dish” event, where members can show off their cooking skills and enjoy a meal together. Sigma Gamma Phi hosts an annual “Spring Formal,” which is a formal dance event for members and their dates.
To join a sorority at St. Bonaventure University, students must participate in the recruitment process, which usually takes place at the beginning of the fall semester. During recruitment, potential new members attend events hosted by each sorority to learn more about their values, traditions, and philanthropic work. After the recruitment process is complete, students may receive an invitation to join a sorority.
In conclusion, sororities are an important part of campus life at St. Bonaventure University, providing female students with opportunities for personal growth, leadership, and community service. With three sororities to choose from, students can find an organization that aligns with their values and interests. The philanthropic work, traditions, and events hosted by each sorority make them a valuable and fun addition to the St. Bonaventure community.