I was at an officers meeting 2 weeks ago, discusiing how our alum chapter can recruit and maintain dues-paying members. The president was aggressively pushing alumnae initiation. Most of the officers agreed, and they pointed me out as an example (blushing).
However, one officer did object, saying that the AI process dilutes the Alpha Phi experience because of the lack of collegiate involvement. She was by no means discrediting AI process, but was speaking in a general sense. The president then responded it doesn't mean we're just going to take anybody; rather, we will seek potential initiates who exhibit dedication to Alpha Phi. The president also pointed out that based on her observations, alumnae initiates tend to be very dedicated to the organization.
I understand this one officer's concerns, but as pointed out before many a times, sorority membership is for life. During my AI process I was self-conscious at times because I did not want any of the Alpha Phi members to think that I was taking the easy way out, or that I was not going to understand what Alpha Phi was about because I didn't join the organization as a collegiate. But as one member told me (bless her!), you're only a collegiate 4-5 years. You're an alum for the rest of your life.
I contacted 2 of the local NPC alum chapters about my interest in the AI process, and while one responded sooner than the other, my e-mails were enthusiastically received. I'm glad and grateful that Alpha Phi welcomes alumnae initiates with open arms, and recognizes that AI's are a wonderful asset to the fraternity.
Greek love,
bearal