By Rees Sinnott
This past Friday, SMU’s newest sorority, Alpha Delta Pi, welcomed its first member class of over 60 girls. ADPi originally made its debut to SMU’s campus in 1915, but the chapter closed in the 1990s. This reestablishment marks the first addition to SMU’s Panhellenic community since Alpha Chi Omega in 1994.
ADPi began their recruitment process during the open house round of formal recruitment, inviting potential new members of all grade levels to learn more about the chapter. The process continued this past week, leading up to their bid day on Friday.
Lauren Hoenshell, a senior from Dallas and member of this reestablishing class, shared her excitement for ADPi, stating “Everyone was so kind and welcoming. I have met so many amazing girls that I have already grown close to.”
Students from SMU’s other Greek organizations, parents, and alumni greeted the new members as they ran home to the lawn outside the Fondren Science Building. To celebrate, the new members were treated to a coffee cart, as well as ADPi clothing and accessories from The 1851 Shop to help them show their spirit.
Mary Jane Hatchett, who served as the VP of Communication Development for Panhellenic Recruitment this past year, attended bid day with the rest of the executive board.
“It was truly amazing to see how much support they had on Bid Day from every chapter on campus. Everyone was beaming with excitement and positivity for ADPi. I cannot wait to see where this takes SMU Panhellenic and how it will positively impact sorority recruitment in the future,” said Hatchett.
After the excitement of bid day and all the anticipation leading up to it, it will be so exciting to see ADPi make their mark on campus in the upcoming years.
“I feel honored to be a part of a piece of history by being one of the founding class members of such an amazing national organization. ” said Hoenshell.
Photos by Mary Jane Hatchett
