Greek Life at UMass: Kappa Phi Lambda
Fraternities and sororities collectively make up a significant number student body groups here at the University of Massachusetts. UMass Kappa Phi Lambda is one of several sororities here on campus to choose from. Let's find out more about what it's like to be a "sister" with the Kappas!
The Mu Chapter of the Kappa Phi Lambda sorority here at UMass is an Asian-interest, but not exclusive, sorority that focuses on sisterhood, service and cultural diversity. The Kappas were chartered in Spring of 2001, growing bigger every year. As I write this, they are now 200 sisters strong — which has helped increase the greater cultural sense and belonging on campus.
This semester has looked different from most, with the sisters learning and living remotely from wherever they deem home for the time being. While the chapter was inactive this fall semester, they continue to update their social media frequently and sisters have found ways to stay in contact with one another during this semester —whether it’s socially distanced meet-ups or via platforms like zoom. This post reflects on the chapter’s engagement pre-COVID, and typical processes the chapter engages in during a normal academic year.
Sister Anh Tong notes “there is a saying in our organization that is mentioned frequently throughout the year, 'empowered women empower women' — and every single sister does exactly this.” Rising junior Kara Chaung chimes in, adding “in addition to being my friends for life, the sisters are also my classmates, study buddies, people I volunteer and work with, and most importantly, my support system!”
Many of the girls decided to rush because they wanted to meet new people, and UMass Kappas allowed them to find new friends and a “home away from home”.
Current member Victoria Salemme recalls feeling like she had a difficult time branching outside of her major during her first year, and starting her sophomore year she “really wanted to find a place with people who had the same work ethic and interests”. Victoria believes since joining the Kappas she has “had so many opportunities open up to me that I may never have experienced otherwise.”
For rising senior Kristal Lee, she “went out to rush because I was genuinely curious about what Kappa Phi Lambda stood for, and was extremely impressed by their commitment to community service and cultural diversity.” Many of the sisters agreed that they were drawn into the sisterhood after meeting the other members, and hearing about the Kappa's strong values and commitment to empowering one another.
Emeline Chang says that for those wondering about the 'Rush' process, it is "typically two weeks long and filled with a bunch of non binding events where girls who are interested in joining can attend to learn about the sorority, what it stands for, as well as meet some of the sororities sisters.”
While the Kappas are Asian-interest, they are not Asian exclusive and the only academic requirement they have is that you must carry a 2.7 GPA or higher; although first-semester first-year students are excluded from this requirement. To qualify for an interview the Kappas require attendance of three rush events and one general interest meeting.
During rush events, Suki suggests taking “a chance and sharing your interests and hobbies because you never know who will have the same interests, hobbies, etc as you!” Anh Tong adds in “be yourself and have fun with it!” because the sisters love to meet new people, regardless of why you come to rush.
The Kappas mission is to further educate individuals about Pan-Asian culture, as well as creating “ a safe, fun, and educational place for girls to explore themselves and the environment around them.” The group is also heavily committed to raising money for their philanthropies: Stop it Now!, a local organization in Northampton committed to preventing sexual abuse of children, and CARE — which is dedicated to ending poverty across the world.
One of the most important things to the Kappas is giving back to their community, locally and internationally. Before the pandemic, sisters could be seen volunteering at numerous events during the school year including Amherst’s Winterfest, UMass Wellness Night, and Chilifest. In the past, the Kappas have collaborated with other RSO’s on events that focus on educating the community about Pan-Asian culture.
Throughout the course of the year, the Kappas organize many events throughout the semester that are intended to educate the UMass community on cultural history and current events.
Each semester, the Kappas also hold various fundraising events to raise money for our philanthropies and our organization.
In addition to having a local focus, the group also participates in national campaigns such as Walk in Her Shoes, a two-mile walk that honors all women around the world that need to walk long distances for their basic necessities and It’s On Us, a national initiative founded under the Obama Administration that helps prevent and combat sexual violence on college campuses.
Emeline Chang says her favorite memories with Kappas have been the late-night library hours with her sisters at Du Bois Library.
“They make doing homework and studying a whole lot better, especially during midterm and finals season,” she explains. Anh Tong has enjoyed the “random hangouts with the sisters” and getting to seeing their familiar faces around campus.
The Kappas do not have a strict time commitment and they say “the time commitment is what you want it to be,” while noting, “the more time you put into it, the more you get out!”
Kara Chaung also notes “UMass Kappas are not only the undergrads, but also the alumni — all of whom I can reach out to for absolutely anything.” The sister bond doesn’t stop after you leave UMass, and Terry Moy recalls that “one time some alums came to visit us and we got the chance to eat dinner with them! It was great to hear how our chapter has progressed and to look back on fun memories together!” Krista Lee adds “it was super meaningful and impactful to know that women who had graduated five to ten years agos would take the time to drive from their homes in different states to meet us. It was in that moment where I realized that my affiliation with Kappa Phi Lambda will last forever.”
While the sisters haven’t been able to officially gather together this past fall, they continue to find socially responsible ways to connect with one another and support each other during this difficult time. As mentioned before by multiple sisters, the Kappa’s have a strong commitment to supporting each other, and the connecting on social media has allowed them to continue to adhere to their commitment, regardless of where the sisters may all be at this time.
To learn more about the Kappas follow them (@UMass.Kappas on Facebook and Instagram), or visit their website.
