Founded on April 5, 1895, at the University of Arkansas, Chi Omega stands proudly as the largest women's fraternal organization across the world. By participating in a wide range of activities throughout the year, Chi Omega's members strive to be well rounded in all that they do. The members of Chi Omega follow several foundational principles: friendship, personal integrity, service to others, academic excellence and intellectual pursuits, community and campus involvement, and personal career development.
Founded on June 9, 1923, the local chapter of Beta Beta Chi Omega at Washington State University, or rather "Chi O," aims to make a difference in the community. The Beta Beta chapter aims to better themselves as a whole while applauding the successes of each individual member. Chi O is laid back and diverse, priding themselves on the fact that their members never feel insecure or out of place. "When I got here I felt like I could be myself and not have to brag about anything to be noticed, "Freshman Adele Doneen says, " Chi O has such a homey feeling and I knew I would be happy here."
The Beta Beta chapter holds their main philanthropy, Chi-O Kickoff, in the fall. This is a flag football tournament that is hosted on the practice football field. Both Greeks and non-Greeks are encouraged to attend this philanthropy. The proceeds go toward the Make-A-Wish Foundation, a foundation that grants terminally ill children one wish of their choice.
To this date, the Beta Beta chapter of Chi O has donated over $30,000 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. One of junior Paige Singhose's favorite parts about their philanthropy is seeing a wish being brought to fruition. Her favorite wish was granted to a little boy who wanted a Macbook Pro so he could Facetime his siblings that were in Spokane while receiving treatment in Seattle. Singhose said, "Helping grant wishes for young kids where their biggest struggle is their health, makes your problems seem so trivial."
In the midst of the many negative stereotypes that surround Greek communities everywhere, sophomore Stella Kim spoke with me about how Chi Omega seeks to better the Greek community. Aside from being involved in multiple clubs and holding many positions within these clubs, she, and members of Chi O, want to prove to people that they aren't the "average sorority girl."
Kim believes that by doing this and showing people the positive aspects of Greek life, it will address some of the negativity toward Greek life. Kim said, "I do well in school, I am able to double major in four years and study abroad. I am not rich or spoiled — I work so I can afford the many expenses that come with being Greek."
As shown through their philanthropy, involvement across campus, and their sisterhood, Chi Omega lives by its six values as a chapter. They learn from each other through their mistakes and failures, but are determined to grow, triumph, and help others along the way.
