Members of Kappa Alpha Theta from across the United States traveled to Washington, D.C., this past spring to lobby Congress on behalf of the Fraternal Government Relations Coalition (FGRC). They joined collegians and alumnae from other National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) member organizations to share about their sorority experience and advocate for legislation impacting the fraternity/sorority life community, such as affordable housing, students’ rights, and more.
Jackie Lawrence, Gamma/Butler
“After attending the Freedom of Association Institute, I was familiar with the potential harms facing our Greek life community. The Greek experience has been a major part in my personal and professional development through college, so I want to make sure that it is preserved for generations to come.
The experience was an incredible opportunity to advocate for things I am passionate about. From the training, I had a great time learning about the implications of our proposed bills on Greek life. I also loved meeting collegians and alumni who were equally passionate about advocating. It was inspiring to meet so many passionate and successful leaders.
I look forward to continuing to advocate and sharing the importance of proposed bills to the broader Greek community.”
Emilee Kay Sanderson, Gamma Phi/Texas Tech
“My passion for public service began in college through my involvement in student government. Serving as student body vice president at Texas Tech University deepened my interest in government and civic engagement. I was fortunate to intern for a member of Congress in Washington, D.C., an experience that further fueled my desire to learn about policy and public service. When I learned about the opportunity to represent Kappa Alpha Theta in this space, I was thrilled.
This experience truly opened my eyes to the powerful, deeply connected community that exists within Greek life—one that extends far beyond our individual chapters or campuses. During the trip, I had the opportunity to meet not only other members of Kappa Alpha Theta, but also members from a wide variety of sororities and fraternities from across the country. It was inspiring to see how united we all were in our shared values and passion for advocating on behalf of the Greek experience. ... [J]oining a sorority or fraternity isn’t just about the college experience; it’s about being part of a lifelong network of people who uplift one another.”
Caroline Wingert, Delta Eta/Kansas State
“This past summer I had the privilege of interning on the Hill with a senator. Upon returning, I quickly realized that lobbying and advocating for one's passion was an interest of mine, and so important. I was also ending my term as serving as president of Delta Eta Chapter of Kappa Alpha Theta. When I got an email to apply, I jumped on the opportunity! I saw this to gain more experience in a profession I was interested in and with an organization I loved.
Returning to Kansas State University following the Hill visits, I have been excited to tell my friends about my experiences. I have told them about the bills we lobbied for, and the importance of them to our community. I also shared about the incredible alumni I met while there. I believe that telling others about an experience such as this one is just as important as the experience itself.
I think it is important to continue to shine light on the positive impacts Greek life makes in student lives and on campus.”