Hello and welcome to the University of Maryland Panhellenic Association! 

 

My name is Ava Morrow and I am beyond thankful to be writing to you as the University of Maryland Panhellenic Association President. 

 

For background, all Panhellenic Associations (PHA) established at universities across the country are governed by the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC). As founded under the NPC Creed, The University of Maryland Panhellenic Association prides itself on promoting and exhibiting values of philanthropy, service, community, leadership, and education. Our PHA branch is proud to have 15 nationally recognized sorority chapters on campus.

 

As I reflect on the past three and a half years spent at The University of Maryland, I am indebted to the Panhellenic community for helping me meet some of my best friends, grow my confidence and leadership skills, and be involved in a community larger than myself. As UMD grows into a more academically competitive institution, I have seen the significantly positive impact that PHA has had on my, and my peers' scholarly pursuits. Being surrounded by such a large group of motivated, intelligent, empowered, and hardworking women has been extremely inspiring, and helps me continue to strive to be a better version of myself. 

 

With all that said, however, it would be irresponsible not to acknowledge that the Panhellenic and broader sorority community has historically fallen short of when it comes to full inclusivity. Our community is shaped by a variety of perspectives and identities including but not limited to differing  races, religions, socioeconomic statuses, sexualities, etc. Despite this, it is important to emphasize that everyone has a place in this community. What makes UMD PHA so special is seeing how women of all backgrounds and walks of life come together to support one another. But, we can be better. The UMD PHA executive board, as well as myself as an individual, are prioritizing how we can best make our community inclusive, supportive, and safe for ALL women. We will continue the efforts made by previous boards to challenge the status quo, and help accessibility for all to experience the benefits that joining a chapter provides. 

 

As the PHA community continues to progress, I will remain committed to being a voice and advocate for our women. We must rely on one another to make these positive changes happen as change requires support, solidarity, and bravery. Though, it’s important to recognize that this reliance is not sustained when it's exclusive to those within their own individual chapters, or even just amongst our 15 chapter community. Reliance requires a generational, inclusive network - something that I hope to continue to foster and grow during my time. I hope that our women continue to feel empowered so that once they graduate they can translate and utilize this empowerment to leave the world a better place than when they started their Greek journey. 

 

I am extremely grateful to have been introduced into this community and to have been allotted the ample number of opportunities that have come with my experience. I hope that everyone has the chance to find their home and go Greek! 

 

If you have any questions or concerns that you would like to discuss, PHA related or not, please do not hesitate to reach out to me via email at phapresidentumd@gmail.com. 

 

Sincerely,

Ava Morrow

University of Maryland Panhellenic Association President