Glossary

Sorority:
A group of women banded together for social and educational purposes.

Sister:
A term used within a women's fraternity when referring to other initiated members.

Bid:
A formal invitation to join a sorority.

Badge:
A pearled golden lyre worn by initiated members of Alpha Chi Omega.

Lyre:
An instrument of the Greek gods, the symbol and badge of Alpha Chi Omega.

Chapter:
The local group of a national sorority.

Rituals:
The traditional, sacred ceremonies of a chapter, which are usually secret.

Initiation:
The ceremony in which a new member becomes a full active member.

Legacy:
A potential new member who has a relative that is a member of a sorority.

Hera:
Greek goddess and patron goddess of Alpha Chi Omega.

Hera Day:
Celebrated on March 1, a day recognized by Alpha Chi Omega to give personal service for the happiness and well-being of others.

Philanthropy:
Community service and fundraising efforts to promote human welfare. Alpha Chi Omega's philanthropy is the fight against domestic violence.

Mystagogue:
An initiated member assigned to a new member to be her guide and counselor in all matters pertaining to the sorority.

Macdowell Month:
A month to celebrate the fine arts in honor of the MacDowell Colony which was Alpha Chi Omega's first altruistic project, an artist's colony in Peterborough, New Hampshire.

Dues:
Fees for a sorority membership.

New Member:
The title given to a potential member from the time she accepts a bid until the time she is actually initiated.

New Member Education:
A period of time spent learning about the chapter and sorority life prior to initiation.

Membership Criteria:
Foundation upon which membership is based. Specifically to Alpha Chi Omega: Academic Interest, Character, Financial Responsibility, Leadership Ability, and Personal Development.

Membership Status:
One's standing with the sorority.

Panhellenic:
The governing body for women's sororities.