Your e-mail was great. I don't think that you need to wait to hear from John before you start to plan for rush or recruitment. Actually, you should probably hold an informational meeting at the beginning of next semester in order to get organized. I suggest that you contact the other women who were interested in being founding sisters over the break via e-mail in order to set up this meeting. Tell them to invite their friends. There will be a lot of interest in a new sorority on campus so don't worry about potential members.
I suggest that you start to function as a sorority as soon as possible. That way you can show John and potential members that you are serious. For example, have weekly meetings in order to get to know each other. You can build momentum and see who is founding sister material. It's true there is a lot of interest in anything new, but when people find out they are expected to contribute a significant amount of time, you will find that some will drop out. Don't be discouraged! Things will be slow at first, but prepare yourself because that is only temporary.
I hope that this works out for you! You have the qualities necessary to be an outstanding member of any sorority! Good luck with everything! Enjoy your break!
