The University of Alabama, a prestigious institution in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, boasts a vibrant Greek life with a rich history. At the heart of this vibrant community lie the Old Row sororities, a group of seven established organizations that have played a significant role in shaping the university’s social and cultural landscape for over a century.
The Founding of Old Row
The origins of Old Row can be traced back to the late 19th century, when the university was still known as Alabama Polytechnic Institute. In 1885, the first sorority on campus, Chi Omega, was founded. This was followed by the establishment of Kappa Kappa Gamma in 1894 and Phi Mu in 1896. These three organizations initially met in various campus buildings but soon found a permanent home on sorority row, which became known as Old Row.
The Seven Old Row Sororities
Today, Old Row consists of seven sororities that have maintained their presence on campus for decades:
- Chi Omega (founded in 1885)
- Kappa Kappa Gamma (founded in 1894)
- Phi Mu (founded in 1896)
- Pi Beta Phi (founded in 1903)
- Kappa Alpha Theta (founded in 1925)
- Alpha Chi Omega (founded in 1926)
- Alpha Gamma Delta (founded in 1928)
The Legacy of Old Row
Over the years, Old Row sororities have established a reputation for academic excellence, leadership, and philanthropy. Their members have held prominent positions in student government, university administration, and local and national organizations. They have also been actively involved in various community service projects and fundraising initiatives.
Academic Excellence
Old Row sororities value academic achievement and encourage their members to excel in their studies. According to the university’s Office of Greek Life, the average GPA of Old Row sororities is consistently above the all-sorority average. Many members also participate in honor societies and receive academic scholarships.
Leadership
Old Row sorority women are known for their leadership skills and involvement in campus organizations. They serve in leadership roles within their sororities, as well as in various student clubs, programming boards, and athletic teams. Many also hold positions in student government and participate in university-wide initiatives.
Philanthropy
Philanthropy is a core value for Old Row sororities. They actively support various local and national charities through fundraising events, volunteerism, and advocacy. Each sorority has its own designated philanthropy, such as Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals (Kappa Kappa Gamma), Girl Scouts of the USA (Alpha Chi Omega), and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (Pi Beta Phi).
The Old Row Experience
Joining an Old Row sorority is more than just being part of a social organization. It is a lifelong commitment to a sisterhood based on shared values and experiences. Members participate in a variety of activities throughout their college careers, including:
- Recruitment: Potential new members go through a formal recruitment process, which includes meeting sorority members, attending events, and expressing their interest in becoming part of the organization.
- Initiation: New members undergo an initiation ceremony to become full-fledged members of their sorority.
- Chapter Meetings: Sororities hold regular chapter meetings to discuss business, plan events, and engage in sisterhood activities.
- Social Events: Old Row sororities host a variety of social events throughout the year, such as formals, parties, and mixers.
- Service Projects: Members participate in service projects and fundraising events to support their sorority’s philanthropy and give back to the community.
The Benefits of Joining Old Row
There are numerous benefits to joining an Old Row sorority, including:
- Sisterhood: Members form close bonds with their sorority sisters, creating a lifelong network of support and friendship.
- Leadership Opportunities: Old Row sororities provide members with opportunities to develop their leadership skills through various roles within the organization and on campus.
- Academic Support: Sororities offer study groups, tutoring, and academic resources to help members succeed in their studies.
- Philanthropic Involvement: Members contribute to their sorority’s philanthropic efforts, making a positive impact on the community.
- Personal Growth: Joining a sorority fosters personal growth, self-confidence, and a sense of belonging.
The Future of Old Row
Old Row sororities continue to play a vital role in the University of Alabama community. They remain committed to their values of academic excellence, leadership, and philanthropy. As the university continues to grow and evolve, Old Row sororities will undoubtedly adapt and thrive, continuing their legacy of sisterhood and service for generations to come.
