National LGBT & Straight-Ally Sorority Charters Fourth Chapter in U.S. at K-State

Gamma Rho Lambda Delta Chapter Makes History being inducted at OUT & GREEK National Conference

November 25, 2009 (Manhattan, Kansas) – A new chapter of Gamma Rho Lambda (GRL) was officially recognized at Kansas State University (K-State) on November 21st. GRL is the first national progressive sorority with a focus on providing a social support system for young college students in the LGBT and straight-ally community. Delta Chapter is the fourth undergraduate chapter recognized by GRL. The chartering occured the same weekend as the Out & Greek National Leadership Conference hosted at K-State this year.

The journey to establishing a chapter at K-State began a year and a half ago when Chelsey Fritch, Chapter President, and seven other students established a colony of Gamma Rho Lambda on campus. As a colony of GRL, young women are given the opportunity to prove to themselves and others that they can form a sustainable group dedicated to the mission of Gamma Rho Lambda. It is a difficult, three-semester process, and the group met both the requirements of the University’s Greek Life Office and Gamma Rho Lambda’s National Council.

“We’re extremely proud of the sisters at K-State,” said Janette Smith, Vice President of Expansion for Gamma Rho Lambda National Sorority. “The group is incredible. They have gone above and beyond the requirements for obtaining their charter, and I look forward to seeing the group continue to flourish.”

The group exceeded expectations in their final semester as a colony. They fulfilled all requirements by their University and GRL National Council with one of the highest collective GPAs of all K-State Panhellenic sororities and GRL Chapters. In addition, they were a major contributor in hosting the 2nd Annual Out and Greek Conference that took place from November 19th to the 22nd on K-State’s campus. GRL members raised over $6,000 to bring in speakers that specialized in LGBT and Greek issues. Students from around the country attended to learn how to be more inclusive of LGBT students on their respective organizations.

Cindy Brown, Vice President of Collegians for Gamma Rho Lambda National Sorority, said, “I can’t wait to see what the coming semester brings. Delta Chapter did an amazing job hosting Out and Greek. Not only are they a great addition to our organization, they’ve proven their dedication to the purpose of the sorority.”

About Gamma Rho Lambda
Gamma Rho Lambda was founded at Arizona State University in 2003. It has continued to expand across the country and now has active chapters at Arizona State University, San Diego State University, and Kansas State University. Colonies include California State University, Northridge; University of California, Los Angeles; Purdue University; and State University of New York, Albany. www.gammarholambda.org

The Lambda 10 Project, an educational initiative of Campus Pride, works to create safer, more LGBT-Friendly fraternity and sorority communities at colleges and universities.

Believe In -- Campus Pride. Campus Pride is the leading national nonprofit organization 501(c)(3) for student leaders and campus organizations working to create safer, more LGBT-friendly colleges and universities. It exists to give "voice and action" in building future LGBT and ally leaders. More information online at www.campuspride.org