Hey Delta Class,
Soon, you’re going to become my brothers. Right now, I’m really happy to be your mom. It’s really funny that you call me “mom.” Lots of Greek Life Pledge classes (or New Member classes as we call them at Saint John’s University), be they social, special interest or what have you, call their New Member Educator or Pledge Master 'mom' or 'dad.' I never forced you to, I never asked you to. But you did. You took it upon yourselves to call me mama. And a big part of me is so glad.
Over this past 5-6 weeks, it’s been a blast getting to know all 35 of you. I’ve watched you grow as leaders, as friends, as future brothers. I recognize your handwriting and I know where you like to hang out and whose laugh is whose at meetings. Some of you have downright blown me away with your maturity, work ethic, and your kindness. When I’m on break from work and I see you hanging out with each other, studying, working hard--together--it makes my heart burst with happiness.
I guess that’s part of being a mom, being proud. Which is why I think it’s fitting that you call me that, because I am so proud of you. Every time you post statuses and photos with each other, I smile knowing that you look out for each other and care about one another.
This process is hard. Alpha Phi Omega’s newly chartered Alpha Eta Pi has some big shoes to fill. Many of our founders have crossed, the personality of our organization is changing, and we’re still growing into our own. As New Member Educator, it’s the job of myself and my counterparts to make sure that we bring in only the best to our brotherhood. I know that maybe not everyone will cross into Alpha Eta Pi, but what I do certainly know is that I have the best group of kids to ever hit this chapter. You're people who have big personalities and are willing to try despite the challenges that might complicate the process. Whether you're successful this time around or not, each of you have had a big hand in shaping how I play my role as your new member educator, and how we relate to each other as educator and new members. Your impression is a lasting one on all of us. You were each willing enough to give it a shot, and that’s what counts. You cross, or you come back again to join us next semester, stronger and better than ever.
No matter what happens, I’ll always be your “mom.” You make me laugh with your millions of e-mails and text messages. You blow up my phone and I love it. When your process is over, part of me will miss it…
35 is a lot. For you, for me, for our chapter. But it’s fun, and it’s worth it.
I wouldn’t trade this experience I have with you guys for the world.
I love you (x35).
See you on the other side kiddos.
Yours in leadership, friendship and service,
Mama