Your Voice | Widen the circle of senior societies

I read with interest Emily Orrson’s commentary on senior societies.

In the spring of 1971, an ad appeared in The Daily Pennsylvanian for a joint Friars-Sphinx smoker. While in Houston Hall for another meeting, I accidentally ran across the advertised smoker and wandered into the crowded West Lounge (now known as Bodek).

I’m so glad I did. I was inducted into Friars, met memorable class leaders from across the University, got to know Friars alumni (including one who hired me in my first job after graduation), met my future husband (who was also inducted into Friars) — the list of impactful experiences goes on and on.

I am grateful for my life-altering connections due to Friars, and trace all back to a DP ad and coincidence. Senior societies need to reach back to old traditions, widen the circle and invite any interested juniors to learn more about their activities.

Doris Cochran-Fikes 1972 College for Women graduate Director, Secondary School Committees, Penn Office of Admissions

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