New Panhellenic Council Exec Board takes over t ceremony

Concluding what leaders described as a banner year, the Panhellenic Council Executive Board passed the torch to its new board Wednesday at Panhel's annual Circle of Sisters ceremony. The event also marked the official induction of pledges into Greek life after 1 1/2 weeks of exposure to pledging. Circle of Sisters -- held in the Chemistry Building -- was attended by more than 300 pledges, sisters and presidents and officials from each of the eight sororities. The attendees watched attentively as Panhel President and Delta Delta Delta sister Jessica Lennon, a College senior, and her executive board handed power over to Pi Beta Phi sister and incoming President Janelle Brodsky, a College and Engineering junior, and her fellow officers. Office of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs Director Scott Reikofski gave an introductory speech in which he praised Penn's Panhel as one of the top sorority organizations in the country. Reikofski pointed out that the average Panhellenic grade point average last fall was 3.4, significantly higher than the University-wide average for female students of 3.19. He also welcomed the new pledges into the Greek system and encouraged them to be active members. "You get out of it what you put into it," Reikofski told the pledges, adding that they have an exciting Greek experience ahead. Later in the evening, members of the outgoing board presented their successors with flowers and a ceremonial gift, representing Panhellenic ideals. For example, outgoing Treasurer and Alpha Chi Omega sister Mary Woland, a College senior, gave incoming Treasurer and Sigma Delta Tau sister Stacey Finerman, a Wharton junior, a shield representing the responsibilities of her position. After the change of officers, pledge educators from each of the eight houses led the pledges in the recitation of the Panhellenic pledge. Brodsky then concluded the pledge, which includes the prohibition of racial slurs and the preservation of trust, respect and sensitivity. "You are now officially pledges," Brodsky said. But for many students, the highlight of the evening took place before the transition of officers, as Vice Provost for University Life Valarie Swain-Cade McCoullum -- a sorority sister in her undergraduate days -- delivered a speech praising the ideals and benefits of Greek life. Lennon introduced the Delta Sigma Theta alumna as an administrator with an "unfaltering commitment to Greek students." "I'm honored that you invited me again," said McCoullum, who also spoke at last year's event. The vice provost explained how excited she was to be speaking before "so many strong Greek women." McCoullum explained that prior to pledging, she felt isolated at Pennsylvania State University, her alma mater. "Penn State turned from very cold? into home," McCoullum said. McCoullum concluded her speech exclaiming "Right on, Panhel!" to match the enthusiasm in the room, which far exceeded that of a normal day in the Chemistry Building. "I thought she was great," new Vice President of Publicity and Chi Omega sister Meredith Lahl said. The Nursing junior explained that she was impressed by more than just McCoullum's speech and dedication to Greek Life. "She was very cute," Lahl said. "She wanted to sit in the audience so she could see our expressions."