On March 29, Alpha Phi International Fraternity added a shining star to the sky with the installation of the Iota Delta chapter at the University of Rhode Island. The Fraternity proudly initiated 87 charter members, 26 alumna initiates, and several mothers.
After three days of inspiration activities, including a song night, a big/little night, and a flower ceremony, the installation weekend began. Court of Ivy was held Saturday night and was conducted by collegiate and advisory board members from the Eta Alpha chapter at the University of New Hampshire.
Initiation took place at the URI Multicultural Center and the installation team included: Laura Malley-Schmitt (Zeta Phi-MIT), a member of the International Executive Board; Jennifer Koschalk Stevens (Theta Zeta-Florida Tech), representing the Northeast regional team; Liz Howe Oltman (Theta Tau-Rensselaer), chapter adviser for Seton Hall; Megan Ford (Eta Lambda-George Mason), representing the Executive Office; Tiffany Garrett (Gamma Eta-North Texas), educational leadership consultant; and collegians from Eta Alpha (New Hampshire) and Eta (Boston). Also assisting in the initiation ceremony was Jodi Fontes (Theta Kappa-Rochester), whose sister, Christine, and mother, Paula, were both initiated.
The new chapter was formally presented at a reception for family and friends, held at the Newport Naval Base Enlisted Club. It was a time for smiles and tears of happiness as the advisers and collegiate members shared memories of the growth of the new chapter and its many successes over the last 18 months.
The new Alpha Phi chapter grew out of a local sorority, Kappa Delta Theta, which began in 1994 and pursued a longtime goal to affiliate with a strong national or international organization. Alpha Phi formally presented to the group in the spring of 1997 and began the formal establishment period in the fall of 1997 with 30 members of the local group affiliating.
Maria Destefani – 2018 Michaelanean Award Winner
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