News from the Industry

For the ninth consecutive semester at Purdue University, the combined GPA from all cooperative, fraternity, and sorority members was higher than the campus average, according to The Exponent. For Greek members, the combined GPA was 3.12, while the campus undergraduate average was a 3.03. Alpha Chi Omega had the highest GPA among community members with a 3.45, while Zeta Tau Alpha raised the most philanthropic funds at more than $100,000. Among the four groups that represent 6,639 undergraduate students in the Greek system—21.3 percent of the total undergraduate population—sororities led the way with a 3.26 average.

The Daily Trojan also has coverage of a pending lawsuit at the University of Southern California in which five members of the fraternal community are challenging the university’s plans for deferred recruitment. The lawsuit alleges that prohibiting freshmen from participating in Greek life during their first semester is a form of discrimination against students and Greek organizations. Sigma Chi, Beta Theta Pi, Theta Xi and Tau Kappa Epsilon, as well as Kappa Alpha Theta are listed on the lawsuit. 

Utah State University will be paying a settlement to a former student who was raped by a fraternity brother. Victoria Hewlett will be receiving $250,000 from the school; she alleged they failed to act on reports her rapist had attacked several other women beforehand. Hewlett plans to donate the money for sexual assault prevention at the school. The university will also be taking measures, such as appointing a coordinator to oversee Greek Life, The Salt Lake Tribune reports.

Kappa Alpha Theta is Hiring!

We are currently hiring for four positions; job descriptions and application instructions can be found on the Kappa Alpha Theta website. 

• College support coordinator 

• FHC property manager 

• Foundation project coordinator 

• Part-time receptionist/administrative assistant

RAP (Relationships/Advocability/Political capital) Index Survey

As noted at Grand Convention, the Fraternity Government Relations Coalition (consisting of both NPC and NIC groups) is building a network of influential alumnae to assist in advancing our positions (for example, protecting our organizations from being forced to go co-ed by university administrators). The RAP index was emailed to more than 104,000 Theta alumnae on July 9. These responses are helpful to the Fraternity Government Relations Coalition team as we work together to contact legislative leaders. 

We are aware that some college/universities do not appear on the drop-down list. If you do not find your school listed, also check under The University of _____ or University of _____. Thank you for completing the survey at your earliest convenience. Contact Laurie Connor, director of government relations, with any questions. 

What is the RAP index?  The RAP Index is a trusted survey software tool that will help us build a network of influential alumnae to assist in advancing our priorities, by

• Identifying their connections to and relationships with elected officials at every level of government;
• Pinpointing members who will be able to help advance our policy agenda; and
• Gauging how important specific issues are to our members.

Year-End and Expense Reports

The Fraternity’s 2017-18 fiscal year ended June 30. Because some of your expenses may be for the 2018-19 fiscal year, please note on your submitted expenses if they are for the 2017-18 or 2018-19 fiscal year.

2017-18 expenses will be accepted until, but no later than, July 31. No exceptions to this deadline will be granted, as the Fraternity’s audit begins in August. Please submit your invoices in a timely manner. Also remember that, in accordance with the Fraternity’s travel policy, only expenses submitted within 90 days of expenditure will be reimbursed. If you have any questions, please contact your staff partner.

Volunteers for High Five Friday

Have you worked with an exceptional volunteer recently? Consider nominating her for High Five Friday! Email her name and role to Laura Stelsel, assistant director of alumnae engagement. And a very special thank you to YOU for all the work you do on behalf of Kappa Alpha Theta. 

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