Welcome to the Panhellenic Association!

 

At the University of Maryland, the Panhellenic Association (PHA) is one of four Greek councils. PHA has 16 unique nationally recognized sorority chapters on campus. Governed by the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC), PHA strives to promote and exhibit values of philanthropy, service, community, leadership, and education. 

 

To say that I am proud to be representing this organization alongside so many unique, strong women would simply be an understatement. This community has provided me with invaluable learning experiences and the opportunity to connect with so many incredible individuals who constantly challenge me to be the best version of myself. I have so much gratitude for this community and I am inspired by the work we continue to pursue to make this a more equitable, welcoming environment. 

 

However, the work is far from complete. Both nationally and locally, this community has historically excluded minority communities. Specifically, people of color, those of low socioeconomic status, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. This organization is forever intertwined with the history of racism, prejudice, oppression, and privilege that it was founded on, but I reject stagnation, rather, we must continue to challenge the status quo. Myself and the 2024-2025 Executive Board have committed ourselves to prioritizing the expansion of accessibility and inclusivity, and increasing our levels of financial transparency, while simultaneously holding each chapter to the same standard.

 

While it is crucial to acknowledge our past, it is also important to highlight the ways in which our community has grown and the positive impacts our chapters have on members, both personally and professionally. Even as the Panhellenic Association continues to evolve, our chapters and members remain steady in their commitment for philanthropy and service. Our organizations also continue to provide opportunities for leadership and belonging. This sisterhood expands beyond just our individual chapters, rather it has fostered a unique sense of community that empowers our members to pursue their passions while remaining confident that they will always have a home here.  

 

Growing up as an only child, I always longed for the sense of community and sisterhood that so many of my peers cherished. Joining the Panhellenic Association gave me so much more than that. I not only had the sense of sisterhood I was searching for, I had a community of passionate individuals with whom I could be authentically me. This community gave me a home and a place of comfort, but it also provided so many leadership and professional development opportunities, and a place to grow. 

 

I am honored to represent a community of supportive, passionate, and empowered individuals. As a member of a Panhellenic chapter, the loyalty, compassion, and respect ever present in our community is something that I embrace and admire. As a leader, I hope to provide you with the same experiences, those that you will forever cherish, and I hope that you find your home here.

 

If you have any questions or concerns, PHA related or not, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me via email at phapresidentumd@gmail.com. 

 

Sincerely,

Robin Schlesinger

University of Maryland Panhellenic Association President