I have been blessed to send three of my daughters to the University of Kansas, knowing they would pursue an active life in the Greek system. Words of wisdom passed from one sister to the next as each packed up to start their exciting journey as freshmen at KU, “Choose the sorority that best fits your needs.” Interestingly, each of my daughters, with such very different personalities, chose to be a part of the Phi Chapter of Alpha Chi Omega. And, I am very proud that they became very active members of the sorority. They shared many stories of the wonderful philanthropic activities that the chapter sponsored and I began to feel that I knew the young women that had become such an important part of their lives.
As each academic year comes to a close, I look forward to “Mom’s Day”…the day I can connect with other Mom’s and meet many of the young women who have shared experiences with my daughters and helped guide them on this journey we call “life”. The brunch is always quite tasty, the conversation…lively, and the auction bids, well…competitive. Mom’s Day is a day to remember, a day to look back on and smile, a day to see that my daughters interact with such wonderful young women.
Over the course of many Mom’s Day Brunches, I have learned many valuable lessons. The most important of which is that the women of Alpha Chi Omega are not only beautiful, they are intelligent, compassionate and they know and understand the true meaning of friendship. The bonds of sisterhood have bound them together…for life. But, those bonds are not hidden behind the walls of the house. They reach out into the community as a powerful team to assist those with great need. And, I can only imagine the joy they bring to the under-privileged when they resolve the problems with encouraging, bright and cheerful smiles. Yes, they do know how to have fun. But, having fun is an important part of life to relieve stress from work and mundane daily tasks. But, having fun does not mean they aren’t committed to their education…I am so proud that my daughter’s have been a part of a sorority that makes grades a priority. These things help make well-rounded women and will ultimately help them lead happy lives. I strongly believe that when you work hard, give your time and talents to your community and surround yourself with good friends, you will lead a happy life.
I only regret that I was not a part of the Greek system during my collegiate years so that I, too, could have made life long friends.
Written by Carol Keplinger, Mother of Kailyn Keplinger.
Phi Chapter Alpha Chi Omega 