Pittsburg State University

08/02/2024 | Press release | Archived content

All three sorority chapters at Pitt State earn top national awards

From hundreds of sorority chapters, only a few are chosen each year for top national awards given at national conferences. It's even rarer for all sororities on a campus to earn national awards in one year - something that inspires student leaders as they prepare for recruitment season, which begins this month.

"It's a big deal for any one of our chapters to earn such an award from their national organization, but I find it truly exciting that all three chapters housed on our campus achieved this honor!" said Pitt State's Panhellenic Advisor Sydney Anselmi.

Such awards reflect sororities having gone beyond expectations of a well-functioning chapter in membership, academic excellence, finances, chapter operations, philanthropy, and more.

This year's awards included:

Alpha Gamma Delta
Circle of Excellence Award

Alpha Sigma Alpha
Four Star Chapter
Generous Spirit Award: Kaytie Frisch

Sigma Sigma Sigma
Touchstone Chapter
Excellence in Academic Success
Excellence in Marketing & Social Media
Margaret Freeman Everett Outstanding Senior: Madeline Murdock

Alpha Gamma Delta

Ashley Heinen, a Plastics Engineering Technology major and president of Alpha Gamma Delta, said the "Circle of Excellence" award reflects the hard work and dedication of every member from 2022-2024, highlighting collective achievements in academics, leadership, service, recruitment, retention, experience, and finance.

"This recognition validates our commitment to excellence across these critical areas and motivates us to continue striving for even greater accomplishments," she said. "We are extremely proud of this achievement and grateful for the support and efforts that made it possible!"

Their work included implementing new academic programs, offering opportunities for leadership growth, strategic planning for recruitment, and participating in more than 1,500 community service hours. They focused on retention by engaging members and with their philanthropy, they fought hunger.

Alpha Sigma Alpha

Emily Bright, a Construction Management major and president of Alpha Sigma Alpha, said earning the title of a Four Star Chapter was not only an honor, it reminded members of their values and that hard work pays off.

"Our chapter members stay involved and hold leadership positions in campus organizations/clubs. We raise money for our four philanthropies while also supporting philanthropy events by other organizations. And our sisters work hard in school to achieve high academic standards," she said.

The sorority was especially proud of member Kaytie Frisch, who was awarded the Generous Spirit Award.

"We are so proud of Kaytie and her constant commitment to our chapter. Her generosity and positive spirit are infectious!" Bright said.

Sigma Sigma Sigma

Hannah Eckstein, a Biology (Pre-Medicine) and Spanish major and president of Sigma Sigma Sigma, said members were "beyond excited to see not only our chapter but also an individual member recognized for incredible work this awards season."

She was referring to Madeline Murdock, who was named the Margaret Freeman Everett Outstanding Senior.

"On campus and nationally, we have been continuously recognized for our excellence in academics," she said. "We always put being a student first, and we will continue to strive to support our members in growing their knowledge and character."

"Being a Touchstone chapter was an added honor, and one we were eager to receive," she said. "It takes lots of planning and coordination, but in the end, it was an effort of all of our members.

Recruitment:

"Panhellenic" is the collective, governing body of social sororities. Primary recruitment occurs the week before classes begin on Aug. 19. Participants meet all three chapters in a unique setting and find their perfect match, culminating in a fun Bid Day reveal.

Those interested should register by midnight on Sunday, Aug. 4, at pittstate.mycampusdirector2.com
Additional details on Instagram: @npcpittstate.