[navane]

Originally Posted by RaggedyAnn

I speculate part of it could be that it is possible most alum groups do not have all of the ritual equipment needed, since it is such a rare occurance-but I could be wrong.

I think that's one logistical consideration; but, I agree that it would only be a part of the reason.

I personally would feel uncomfortable if we allowed alumnae groups to just alumna initiate women at will without the permission/endorsement of a collegiate chapter.

As SWTXBelle mentioned, Gamma Phi Beta AIs have to be recommended by an alumnae chapter. However, they are also initiated under the designation a of sponsoring collegiate chapter. So, the two entities needs each other. If the alumnae chapter wants to AI someone, they have to ask nicely of the collegiate chapter....and if the collegians want to AI someone, they have to ask nicely of the alumnae chapter.

But what about the point breathesgelatin brought up? Her chapter members were confused about AI, the purpose of AI, didn't know the candidate, etc. Part of this could be alleviated by education. Though, I like what her chapter did, they trusted their alumnae sisters' judgment, based on a strong recommendation and the candidates connection to Pi Phi, and approved the request.

I'd like to think that, if my girls asked us (the alumnae chapter) to sign off on AI for a well-liked faculty member or mother of a member, etc, that we would take the time to learn why they thought she was a deserving candidate and then trust their judgment. If we didn't feel entirely comfortable, I suppose we could invite the candidate around to an event; but, at the end of the day, it would be discourteous to the collegians to not approve her.

.....Kelly