Spring Break
Multi-cultural organizations join UA community
Gamma Eta
Lindsey Pruitt
Issue date: 11/26/07 Section: News
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Founded at the University of Florida in 1995, a group of women saw the need to form an organization that would offer the support system needed by women of different ethnic backgrounds.
"Being a multi-cultural sorority means that we welcome exceptional women from all backgrounds. Because of this, we are a diverse group and embrace diversity in every aspect. We have sisters that are Salvadorian, Mexican, Native American, Filipino, Laotian and many more. Nationally, our sisters represent over twenty countries from all over the world," said Vanessa Stewart, president of Gamma Eta.
The organization promotes academic success, social interaction, community service and networking, which are components of a lifestyle that will lead to a successful college career. It also promotes involvement in the community and campus life, according to a brochure.
"Being a Gamma Eta sister means leading a balanced life. Through our history, sisters have been involved in different facets of campus life including, student government, residence hall assistants, freshman orientation, program mentors, and other leadership roles and organizations," Stewart said.
The Gamma chapter at the UA currently has 27 members.
"We may not have as many members as other organizations, but that just makes us work even harder. We have seven pillars of excellence that we uphold: leadership, unity, sisterhood, service, scholarship, strength and diversity," Stewart said.
"Our diversity truly sets us apart from other campus organizations; we serve as a support system for girls that feel like they can't fit into any other organization. All of the sisters are open-minded and welcoming," she said.
Gamma Eta is not yet a part of the UA Greek community but they are Greek nationally through membership of the National Multicultural Greek Council.
"Although we have only been on this campus for five semesters, Gamma Eta has had an impact at the UA through our educational programming, volunteerism, leadership activities and relationships with other organizations," Stewart said.
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