Members of Franklin & Marshall’s seven sororities joined to form friendships and build community on campus. Reflecting on their experiences, student leaders say they found the sense of connection they were looking for and more—including opportunities to make an impact by giving back. 

“I was really drawn to organizations that had close-knit communities, especially ones that had meaningful impact through philanthropy and charity work,” said Kathleen Byrne, current president of Alpha Phi, of her decision to join a sorority.

For Taylor Williams, joining Delta Sigma Theta, Inc. also meant becoming part of the broader community of the Divine 9, nine historically Black fraternities and sororities that comprise the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC). 

“Being a member of Delta Sigma Theta and the Divine Nine is about more than just sisterhood and brotherhood; it’s about bringing together like-minded people to foster cooperative action in community service, academic excellence, leadership development, and social justice advocacy,” said Williams. She is now president of the Lambda Gamma chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, which is chartered at both Franklin & Marshall College and Millersville University.

"Being member of Delta Sigma Theta and the Divine Nine is about more than just sisterhood and brotherhood; it's about bringing together like-minded people to foster cooperative action."

-Taylor Williams '27

"I came into college extremely anxious and hesitant to by myself. Since joining Alpha Phi, I broke out of my shell with the help of confident, hardworking, and encouraging women by my side."

-Kathleen Byrne '27

  The communities formed through sorority life offer a strong foundation to advocate for causes students care about and fundraise for their chosen philanthropies. For Byrne, it’s a key part of the bond she shares with her fellow members. 

“Our philanthropy is the Alpha Phi Foundation, which supports Women’s Heart Health,” Byrne said. “We organized our annual Red Dress Gala in February, which is an extremely important event for our sorority that we get to share with family and friends.”

Fundraisers also bring together other communities on campus and beyond. Chi Omega’s annual Mr. Make-A-Wish event connects members of F&M’s fraternities and men’s athletic teams to participate in a pageant judged by sorority presidents.  

“It is the most fun event, and we get to watch the guys perform their talents and answer interview questions all while raising money for a great cause,” said Lorena Saavedra, president of Chi Omega. “This year we raised about $10,000 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.”

"The biggest event we have all year is Mr. Make-A-Wish. This year we raised about $10,000 for the Make-A-Wish foundation."

-Lorena Saavedra '27

Events open to the entire campus community can provide a place for all students to interact and connect with each other—and with the broader Lancaster community.

“One notable event we hold each year is our Black Business Expo,” said Williams. “Local Black-owned businesses set up in the Steinman College Center to engage with students, connecting our school to the broader Lancaster area.”

Sororities have also offered valuable leadership opportunities—and the confidence to pursue them. 

“I came into college extremely anxious and hesitant to be myself. Since joining Alpha Phi, I broke out of my shell with the help of confident, hardworking, and encouraging women by my side,” Byrne said. “My experience as president has been extremely rewarding in the ways I’ve learned to lead.”

Social Life

We know a vibrant campus life is about ore than how you spend your evenings and weekends — it's a major contributor to your college experience. Opportunities to build community, discover your passions, and develop new skills are waiting for you at F&M.

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