All nostalgic because I was asked to write a letter to the incoming president of my sorority...
First and foremost, congratulations on ascending to the presidency of Gamma Delta Pi! Your loyalty and dedication to the sisterhood have not gone unnoticed and you are continuing a long and proud legacy.
From my experience as President of Gamma Delta Pi, I might have been regarded as somewhat “soft” in my decisions - but I will say this: Gamma Delta Pi has been, and will always be, (in my opinion, anyway) a sorority of the people.
At risk of turning this letter into a microcosm of the Democratic National Convention, I’ll offer you my unsolicited advice. Tradition is a critical aspect of Gamma Delta Pi. As we pass on the oversized paddle (couldn’t get rid of the damn thing if I tried :P), we are carrying on a pretty epic legacy, but as essential as tradition is, never put it before the will of the sisterhood.
Gamma Delta Pi is more than cheap vodka and fraternity parties. It is more than Donut Ride and Wake Up and Exchange and it is even more than that moment when you realize you’re a part of something bigger than yourself.
Being President of Gamma Delta Pi was an extremely formative part of my college experience. I entered into Ithaca as something of an introvert, but by the end of my four-year stint with the sorority, I was a person evolved. Currently, I’m pursuing my Master’s in Student Affairs and believe me, the eternal student is not a path anyone would have guessed I’d take.
So, as much as you will lead Gamma Delta Pi, let it lead you too. Particularly, if it leads you in the direction of The Chapter House, look for our letters on the wall. Shea and I are pretty proud of that one. ;) I am entirely confident that the sorority is in capable hands and if you ever need anything, I’m always here.
Jen Kamish
Pledge Class ‘71
From my experience as President of Gamma Delta Pi, I might have been regarded as somewhat “soft” in my decisions - but I will say this: Gamma Delta Pi has been, and will always be, (in my opinion, anyway) a sorority of the people.
At risk of turning this letter into a microcosm of the Democratic National Convention, I’ll offer you my unsolicited advice. Tradition is a critical aspect of Gamma Delta Pi. As we pass on the oversized paddle (couldn’t get rid of the damn thing if I tried :P), we are carrying on a pretty epic legacy, but as essential as tradition is, never put it before the will of the sisterhood.
Gamma Delta Pi is more than cheap vodka and fraternity parties. It is more than Donut Ride and Wake Up and Exchange and it is even more than that moment when you realize you’re a part of something bigger than yourself.
Being President of Gamma Delta Pi was an extremely formative part of my college experience. I entered into Ithaca as something of an introvert, but by the end of my four-year stint with the sorority, I was a person evolved. Currently, I’m pursuing my Master’s in Student Affairs and believe me, the eternal student is not a path anyone would have guessed I’d take.
So, as much as you will lead Gamma Delta Pi, let it lead you too. Particularly, if it leads you in the direction of The Chapter House, look for our letters on the wall. Shea and I are pretty proud of that one. ;) I am entirely confident that the sorority is in capable hands and if you ever need anything, I’m always here.
Jen Kamish
Pledge Class ‘71