As the members of UF’s colonies of Delta Phi Omega Sorority (DPO) and Delta Epsilon Psi Fraternity (DEPsi) traveled last weekend to their respective National Conferences, both anxiety and anticipation struck them. After enjoying a busy weekend in Atlanta, it was now the moment of truth. They sat on the edge of their seats nervously waiting for the news that would validate all of their hard work, efforts, and true love for their Greek organizations and South Asian culture. That time had finally arrived as these two colonies became official chapters.

“It was an amazing feeling and a great honor with all sisters there. Just thinking about it every time gives me goosebumps.” says Hema Gude, President of DPO, as she recalls this heartfelt moment. 

The UF colony of Delta Phi Omega was founded on April 13, 2003. After 11 years of pure dedication to the expansion of their sorority, these sisters decided to apply for chapter status and have been humbly recognized as the Sigma Chapter. DPO will of course continue to exemplify their virtues of leadership, sisterhood, service and academics. 

With the number of Greek chapters already on the UF campus, it is easy to underestimate the amount of time that goes into making this transition a reality. Chapter status is not easily given but a privilege earned by Greek organizations that meet and often exceed their national requirements. UF DPO and DEPsi did just that by upholding the pillars they embody and demonstrating to their community and National Councils their prominent standing and support for good causes. 

The brothers of DEPsi take pride in this momentous accomplishment. President Maulin Patel, comments, “It is almost impossible to describe how I felt when we were finally given chapter status. I looked around at my active body as well as the alumni that were in attendance, and surprisingly most of us were at the point of tearing up.”

As the youngest Greek organization in UF’s Multicultural Greek Council (MGC), this fraternity has surpassed many of the financial and new member challenges it has originally faced as a colony. First established on February 8, 2009, Delta Epsilon Psi is continually growing and representing the true meaning behind brotherhood, discipline and commitment. In only five years, this South Asian fraternity has been awarded its most deserved acknowledgement as Rho Chapter. 

This past weekend marks a milestone not only in each of these respective chapters but within the history of MGC as well. Both presidents feel so lucky to have been part of the development of their organizations into full fledged chapters. Hema states, “We look forward to a great year. With support of other orgs, MGC will make powerful changes on campus. ”

They look forward to the coming celebrations with their brothers and sisters from all around Florida. Be sure to attend their first co-host of the FIRE & ICE party at the Bank Bar and Lounge on August 29th. 

As Maulin stresses, “This is just the beginning! We are definitely planning larger events in the near future and trying to get bigger and better.”