[aopirose]

It went pretty good. Here is the press release.

Alpha Omicron Pi Establishes Colony at the University of La Verne

Thirty members of Alpha Omicron Pi at the University of La Verne gathered together in anticipation and excitement for the first time on Thursday evening, October 26, 2006, on the University of La Verne campus to establish AOII’s newest colony. Like previous colonies, this AOII colony will continue to exemplify the traditions of academic excellence, philanthropy, community service, and lifelong friendships found at 180 other collegiate chapters of AOII across the United States and Canada. Alpha Omicron Pi is the third National Panhellenic Conference sorority to organize on the University of La Verne campus. The AOII chapter is expected to have tremendous success over the next few years as the colony and Greek tradition grow at the University.

The colony members at the University of La Verne are among the top students and leaders on the campus. Their commitment to academics is evident in their average GPA of 3.23. In addition, members are involved in all areas of campus life including the Campus Activities Board, Residence Hall Association, Latino Student Forum, and numerous other honorary societies and campus organizations. Many members are also very active in philanthropic organizations and community outreach.

Executive Board Vice President of Development Allison Allgier, Executive Board Director of Collegiate Chapters Phyllis Gilson, officials from AOII International Headquarters in Brentwood, Tennessee, local alumnae and collegiate members, Alumnae Advisory Council, and Corporation Board members assisted in the recruitment efforts on campus.

The next few months will be full of fun, learning and work as the University of La Verne colony prepares itself to be installed as the 183rd chapter of Alpha Omicron Pi. Members will participate in weekly education sessions and sisterhood events, as well as socials, philanthropic events, and a colony retreat. They are responsible for establishing the chapter’s sub-motto and name that will typify the chapter’s unique character. There are also bylaws to write, officers to elect, and procedures to establish.

The Colony Development Network Director, Linda Mahfouz, and the Colony Development Network Specialist, Lori Curci-Reed, will guide the colony and continue guiding them as a chapter for the next several years, along with a dedicated Alumnae Advisory Committee and Corporation Board composed of 20 local AOII alumnae. Additionally, a Resident Consultant, Pammy O’Leary, will stay with the chapter through installation.