Meet the greeks: Sigma Kappa

Sigma Kappa’s Theta Pi chapter is unique to Geneseo, known for their excellent academic standing as well as their philanthropic efforts. Kappa’s editorial board (pictured above) consists of 11 women who are dedicated to their chapter’s four core values: friendship, service, personal growth and loyalty (Courtesy of Sophie d’souza).

Known by most as “Kappa,” the Theta Pi chapter of the Sigma Kappa sorority was founded on May 6, 1987. Kappa is comprised of 99 unique girls, each with a notable presence on campus. They are a very diverse and academically driven sorority, boasting the highest GPA out of any other Greek organization for the spring 2018 semester. 

Sigma Kappa president junior Sophie D’Souza began her presidency in the new semester and she intends on doing what she can to improve Sigma Kappa in away way possible.

D’Souza isn’t the only sister ensuring Sigma Kappa runs smoothly. Their executive board consists of ten other women, ranging in class years and majors. 

Kappa’s national philanthropy is the Sigma Kappa Foundation, where sisters raise money through philanthropy events right on campus in order to fund leadership, scholarship and other philanthropic initiatives. Their local philanthropies include Gerontology, The Maine Seacoast Mission and the Alzheimer’s Association. 

D’Souza elaborates on her pride in Kappa’s selflessness and drive to give back to the Geneseo community.

“Our sisters pride themselves on being involved, active members of the Geneseo community,” D’Souza said. “You can usually find us tabling in the Union or library to raise awareness for causes that are close to our chapter’s heart.”

Biology major junior and Kappa sister Sydney Marotta expressed what distinguishes Kappa from any other organization.

“I would have to say that it’s probably our close sisterhood. I know that sounds cliché, but I remember when I was rushing, I was so overwhelmed and really thought that I would never get to know every sister or even be comfortable around them for that matter,” Marotta said. “After I got a bid and really started to get to know all the girls, that feeling quickly passed and it felt so amazing because I knew that I had truly found my home away from home.” 

This semester, Kappa is taking part in Panhellenic Recruitment and is eager to welcome new members into their organization. 

“For any new members considering Sigma Kappa or rushing in general, I would honestly just recommend going through formal recruitment truly and honestly being yourself,” D’Souza said. “The conversations that stick with us most are ones that are genuine and being your complete self will help you find your home at Geneseo.”

Marotta emphasizes Kappa’s core values and what it really means to be a sister in the sorority.

“Our sisterhood operates heavily around our four core values: friendship, service, personal growth and loyalty. All of our sisters do their best to live by these values every day,” Marotta said. “With almost 100 members it may not be obvious that every girl practices these values, but that’s what I believe makes a Sigma Kappa a Sigma Kappa. Every single one of us is different, yet we are all bonded together by our values. It’s a really cool thing to be a part of.”