But why are the NPHC groups so ... different???

[NinjaPoodle]

YES!! Right on point.

Originally posted by stardusttwin
For Psych Tau:

From what I've seen on these boards (& correct me if I am wrong) many alumnae chapters for NIC/NPC groups are connected directly to the undergrad chapter of initiation. I think that adjusting that set up would be a start for encouraging membership past college years.

Members of NPHC alumnae/alumni chapters are not all from one undergrad chapter. So if you pledged at XYZ college when you graduate and move to anytown, USA, you are expected to affiliate with the local alumnae chapter which will be made up of women from age 24-80+ who have all joined at different colleges and are in different stages of life. You may maintain a special bond with those from your undergrad (or grad) initiating chapter (and still support them), but you are expected to continue your individual membership and service for life where ever you are nationwide. When you think about it, you are a member in undergrad for 2-3 years (say 18-21). If you live to be 61 thats 50 years of service through your grad chapter. Much longer than your undergrad years (I hope). This is why its not unheard of for members to be initiated through alumnae/grad chapters...even if one is invited to membership at age 40-you have plenty of years to work hard for your organization.

As for events... there are national initiatives for all NPHC groups but it really depends on the area-what one chapter focuses on may not be a pressing need in another community. The beauty is you are always learning and when one group has a successful event/initiative there is no harm in putting the program in affect somewhere else. Who cares who set up the mentoring program first? If it works, just do it!!

To clarify, I'm not a member, but I have lots of friends who are active on the alumnae level.