I going to add a wrench into all of this.
I think that have the large amount of chapters in a given state is important.
However, wouldn't it also be important to look at the given school/s in the state including the strength of the chapters, RMF issues, grades, campus/community involvement and quota/retention?
So ABC has 27 chapters BIG STATE. However they are at
- BOONIEVILLE DRUNKEN BIG STATE - struggles, barely has enough to fill the house and closest thing to sober on campus
- NORTHEAST BOONIEVILLE DRUNKEN BIG STATE - unofficial keg stand champions but don't tell their national.
- SOUTHEAST BOONIEVILLE DRUNKEN BIG STATE - Campus chapter of the year, the golden child.
- UNIVERSITY OF BIG STATE - struggles, poor grades, lack of sisterhood, not making quota, will close soon
Alumnae are active to keep the chapters going. Occasional teas and toddlers programs.
VS.
XYZ in the same state
- PRESTIGIOUS PRIVATE UNIVERSITY - Campus chapter of the year, the golden child.
- UNIVERSITY OF BIG STATE - Campus chapter of the year, the golden child. Every PNM wants this chapter. Legacy line around the block.
Alumnae mentor collegians, networking opportunities. Huge annual XYZ Debutante Ball that benefits the local children's hospital. Anchor of one of the television news stations is an alumna.