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By Eugenia Johnson Staff Writer ejohns14@my.westga.edu
The National Pan-Hellenic Council has added new memberships in the past two weeks. Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. presented their new members for the spring 2009 semester to the University of West Georgia.
"The National Pan-Hellenic Council is excited about this upcoming fiscal year. We all are striving to increase our numbers in membership and are looking for individuals that will help enhance our individual chapters here on campus," said Marvin Smith, former NPHC and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity president.
Traditionally, new members of a NPHC fraternity or sorority will recite their organization's history, perform step routines and chants, and introduce themselves during their probate show. Sometimes new members may dress according to a certain theme of the show. Families and friends travel long distances to view their loved ones present themselves as members of the respective fraternity or sorority.
Sasha Campbell is a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority and traveled from Georgia State University to view UWG's Omicron Nu chapter of Zeta Phi Beta show.
"The Zeta probate was nice. Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority are recognized as a true brother-sister organization and I like that the new Zeta members did a signature Phi Beta Sigma step as a tribute to our brothers." said Campbell
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority started the "coming out" celebrations at the Mansion on Maple Street. Three ladies, Whitney Hermonstine, Whitney Brown and Jaleesa Bailey were recognized for accomplishing membership into the sorority.
According to their national website, "SG Rho aims to enhance the quality of life within the community. Public service, leadership development and education of youth are the hallmark of the organization's programs and activities. They address concerns that impact society educationally, civically, and economically."
The brothers of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity held a complimentary cookout for attendees before their probate show at Oil Park. Members exemplified traditional chivalry by only allowing female guests to eat first before the show.
"Omega Psi Phi does not seek members; quality men seek Omega Psi Phi. Successful applicants will have a strong presence at the college, university or graduate chapter where they gain admission, but he will also become a part of an international organization known worldwide," said Jonathan Williams, " Congratulations to Brandon 'Shaggy Que' Thompson and Marcus 'Scooby Que' Wise, the newest members of Omega Psi Phi. We all have to remember: 'friendship is essential to the soul'."
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority concluded the festivities presenting their most recent line in the HPE gym on campus. Their new members include: Annalysce Baker, Shunte Thornton, Karissa Alcock, Natasha Hendricks, and Chyna Francis.
"I'm excited for the fall so that I may practice all the principles of Z PHI B as a member and extension of myself. The principles are service, scholarship, sisterly love and finer womanhood. My goal is to strive for excellence and present myself as a role model to young women on this campus," said Baker.
"I am really glad to see the NPHC starting to grow here on the campus of West Georgia. I am starting to see the interest, excitement and willingness of the students to participate in on-campus activities with the NPHC starting to rise. I am definitely excited to see what will happen in the fall," said President Elect of Tau Chi Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha, Tommy A. Vance.
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