One of Penn State's newest sororities is pioneering the move to revise pledge activities.
The national sorority Alpha Delta Pi, which started a chapter at the University this year, will become one of the first Greek organizations at the University to take steps to implement a shorter pledge period this fall.
A Total Membership Education Program geared toward educating members continuously rather than just during the six- to 12-week pledge period has been adopted, said Shelley Riggen, a traveling chapter consultant for Alpha Delta Pi who visited State College last week.
The pledge period has been shortened to eight weeks instead of the traditional semester-long pledge time. Members are brought directly into full membership and "women have respect right off," said Karin Lomicky, president of Alpha Delta Pi's Penn State chapter.
"Basically, the new program eliminates hazing and focuses on the Total Education Program," she added.
The new program works to inform members about the history of Alpha Delta Pi, and also offers programs on wellness, health issues --including AIDS, safe sex and breast examinations -- as well as resume-writing skills and job interview tips.
"We are supporting them in any way we can," said Kimberly Harris, Panhellenic Council secretary. "It's a positive thing that will definitely help sisterhood."
Last year, the American Council on Education issued the White Paper -- a report that questioned the relationship between Greeks and their campuses. It also expressed the council's concern with various aspects of Greek life, especially hazing.
That began a trend of new policies, mostly concerning activities that occur during pledge periods, said Beth Mannle, grand president of Alpha Delta Pi.
"Alpha Delta Pi decided to take a pro-active stand," said Jane Madio, the sorority's grand treasurer and a national board member. Last year the sorority piloted a Total Membership Education program at various chapters across the country, which was successful and has been implemented at all Alpha Delta Pi chapters.
Several Penn State fraternities have already adopted shorter pledge periods and a number of sororities will also implement similar programs this fall.
"We are going to see that all (Greek) groups re-evaluate pledgeship," said Rick Funk, Greek Life coordinator.
