Prairie View A&M University kicked off Spring Fest by hosting its New Membership Showcase in the William “Billy” J. Nicks Field House on Monday, March 27. The New Membership Showcase, or “Probate,” is an opportunity for established organizations to present and unveil their new initiates, or “Neos” to the students and faculty. The Spring 2006 showcase was one of surprising and exciting proportions. Representing the C.S.O. organizations were Karnation Kourt, Incorporated, Sigma Alpha Iota, International Music Fraternity for Women, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, Gamma Sigma Sigma National Service Sorority, Alpha Phi Omega Fraternity Incorporated, Gamma Phi Delta Christian Fraternity, and Epsilon Gamma Iota. Representing the Devine Nine and National Pan-Hellenic Council was Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated.
“I feel that we represented well and that the student body as well as our sorority expects and will see great things from the new members,” said senior and Gamma Sigma Sigma Neo, Franchelle Craft. Craft said she chose the sorority because of its extreme dedication to the community and the fact that they love helping others and establishing sisterly bonds through service.
“I expect to gain an international sisterhood with women who share the same love for music as myself,” said sophomore and Neo of Sigma Alpha Iota, Erica Gordon.
Probate was not only a celebration for Neos, but for old members as well. “All organizations did well, and I hope that they continue to represent their organizations well. It was such a joy to come out and celebrate with the prophytes of our organization. I am especially proud of my sorority, all of their hard work really paid off,” said senior Mara Arceneaux and Prophyte of Gamma Sigma Sigma.
Senior Yanique Nelson and member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated was very proud to see her new “bruhs.” “I was especially excited for the brothers of Omega Psi Phi, all of their hard work, blood, sweat, and tears really paid off.”
Indeed probate was a time of anticipation and excitement; the showcase of new members surely gives the campus something to look forward to.