In the past, Panhellenic Recruitment would normally take place in-person. However, due to COVID-19 and campus guidelines, many of the Panhellenic sororities had to move their recruitment activities to a virtual platform.
“Since March,” Greek Life Director Julie Mincey said, “the chapters in College Panhellenic, really had to just come together and say, ‘Alright, we’re working together as a team, we’re gonna make this happen and it’s going to be a good experience for all people involved.’”
Mincey expressed her amazement at the resiliency and adaptability of those involved with recruitment planning.
“It’s been amazing to see all these college women come together and move things to a virtual format, film videos, and figure out the logistics of Zoom,” Mincey said.
While Panhellenic recruitment has been virtual, Mincey said that this adjustment has not stopped the formation of new connections and relationships between the potential new members and the chapters.
Phi Mu Alpha Gamma President Megan Lenoir discussed the challenges her sorority has faced and how they have adapted to this new normal.
“Not being in-person and being able to meet the girls face-to-face has been a good challenge for us,” Lenoir said. “In a positive light, we have had to change the way we have done things and adapt to Zoom. Because of this, we have actually found it has given us a great opportunity for conversation.”
Following National Panhellenic guidelines, Mincey said that Bid Day was also done virtually.
Lenoir provided information on how Phi Mu would conduct their Bid Day activities.
“Phi Mu will open bids and celebrate all virtually this year while still hoping to give our new members the experience they deserve. We plan to give out bags and treats in small group shifts and have other virtual events throughout the week to welcome girls to our sorority,” Lenoir said.
According to Mincey, after Bid Day, the sorority chapters will start focusing on more sisterhood activities with new and active members in small groups, while meeting all social distancing and mask guidelines.
Lenoir said she is not only proud of her sorority and their adjustment to virtual but all Panhellenic sororities on campus.
“All the Panhellenic sororities on campus have done a great job of adapting to the changes and giving the potential new members the recruitment they deserve,” Lenior said. “I am still so proud to be a part of Samford Greek Life and lead such an amazing chapter on campus.”
For more information on Panhellenic recruitment, visit https://www.samford.edu/greeklife/recruitment.
Staff Writer
