SEPT 12, 2024 | OPINION | By Lily Ljiljanich
Editor’s Note: writer is a member of CC’s Kappa Alpha Theta chapter.
The Beta Omega chapter of the Kappa Alpha Theta (KAΘ) sorority is bringing a positive perspective toward Greek life back to campus. As we celebrate 150 years of Colorado College, we must also reflect on the traditions and developments that have brought this college to where it is now.
With chapter disaffiliation, alleged basement flooding and national as well as local disputes, the general consensus on the value of sororities and fraternities at CC has been questioned. Kappa Alpha Theta is determined to provide truth in its mission of community engagement, campus recreation and intellectual and personal growth for women.
Founded in 1870, Kappa Alpha Theta was the very first Greek-letter fraternity established for women, and it now has 139 active college chapters in the U.S. and Canada. Here at CC, the Beta Omega chapter is thriving. As the only nationally-affiliated sorority on campus, they offer a sisterhood for the women of CC, and recruitment is right around the corner. Second block will be buzzing with Theta news, as potential new members are welcomed into the sorority house on Nevada Ave to experience the possibility of becoming a part of the Theta community. Recruitment provides an opportunity for interested first-years, transfers and other female-identifying students to get to know the values and goals of the sorority while building bonds with current members.
Joining the sisterhood goes beyond wearing the KAΘ black and gold; it means stepping into a legacy of impassioned philanthropy. In the spring, Theta hosted their annual Kicks for CASA kickball tournament. On a beautiful, sunny day, students from all parts of campus came together on kickball teams to support Kappa Alpha Theta’s partner philanthropic group, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), an association that promotes court-appointed advocates for abused or neglected children. CC’s chapter works closely with CASA year-round to offer support, volunteer labor and personal-interest development within the organization. Active member Carlie Malott ’26 worked for CASA this summer, helping relocate children in the foster care system to safe homes.
The sorority’s well-attended “Kicks for CASA” Kickball tournament was refereed and managed by the sisters themselves, where they also served Raising Cane’s fried chicken to the famished participants. All proceeds went to CASA.
Beyond their organized events, Kappa Alpha Theta is making a splash all over campus. Avery Lane ’27, a dancer, is elevating the game this year as a choreographer for Dance Workshop, where you’ll find many artistically inclined Thetas rocking the show, showcasing their energy and skills on the stage. The long-awaited event fills up fast, so get there early and grab your seats for their three performances during Block 3.
Miranda Hernandez ’27 also takes the stage as a star comic for the Sunbutter Comedy Hour, the stand-up comedy group bringing humor to campus. Their “Sunbutter Olympics” comedy show on Aug. 30th brought the true competitive spirit of the Paris Games right into Taylor Theater. You can even find Thetas at the polls; Julia Watson ’25 is running for Vice President of Student Life on the CC Student Government Association. Watson offers her dedication for advocacy and her vision for CC’s future to this election. You can also support Theta’s very own women’s Cutthroat rugby player, Caroline Cullinane ’27, this Sunday Sept. 15, at 1:00 p.m. at Air Force Academy.
CC’s Theta is bursting with passionate, dynamic leaders, determined to uplift and inspire others to achieve the best version of themselves. Built on love, support and authenticity, Kappa Alpha Theta’s members are a prime example of CC women. The chapter looks forward to introducing its new pledge class in Block 2.
KAΘs interchapter strength, on-campus presence, and local involvement have produced a thriving sisterhood and attracted ambitious new members every year, further diversifying and growing the collective of women known as Thetas. While the portrayal of Greek life in popular culture and media has been predominantly one of toxicity and negativity in recent years, CC is proud to boast a strong sisterhood of women, determined to set their own standards on what it means to be a Kappa Alpha Theta.