After being placed on a three-year probation at the end of the spring 2015 semester, Delta Nu sorority is working under an Alumnae Advisory board to continue planning philanthropic events and celebrate its organization’s history.

Founded this year, the Delta Nu Alumnae Advisory Board was originally suggested by the Dickinson Administration. Delta Nu President Lea Simms ’16 says this partnership “has been extremely beneficial” because working with these women provides the sorority with “a different and mature perspective.” Each member of the board has professional experience related to her position, so the sisters will benefit from their mentorship.

Anna Wagman ’16, Delta Nu’s new member educator, says that the sorority will work with its alumnae board, faculty advisors and the administration to make the organization “more sustainable.”

According to the sorority’s website, Delta Nu was officially founded in 1971 when the sisters of Dickinson’s Delta chapter of Chi Omega decided to return their national charter and form a local sorority that was inclusive of all races. To celebrate its 44th anniversary on Oct. 8, sisters and founding members gathered to discuss their history, eat cake and sing Delta Nu songs.

“The stories from the founders were the most powerful piece…when we’re bogged down in the day to day of running an independent organization, it’s easy to forget how important its values and history are to us, past sisters and the Dickinson community,” said Wagman.

“We have the pleasure of being part of something that was founded on ideals of racial and religious equality and hearing the alumnae’s stories about that made everyone proud to be part of the same organization. I think that current sisters left feeling like they were part of something bigger than themselves and also excited for the future of Delta Nu,” said Simms. “I see so much energy and drive in the younger members which is indicative of what is yet to come.”

Simms’ vision for the future of Delta Nu includes continued involvement in the Cumberland Valley community, especially with Safe Harbour, a Carlisle based nonprofit that provides a variety of housing services to Cumberland County’s homeless, according to its website. Wagman explained that Delta Nu has worked with the organization for years.

“They do so much good in the community and we’re so happy to have the chance to help them out however we can,” said Wagman.

Delta Nu hosts an event for Safe Harbour each semester. In the fall, they host Dishes with DNu which is “an event where DNus cook delicious food and then people buy tickets and all proceeds go to Safe Harbour,” according to Simms. “We are extremely excited about this event because it not only benefits a great local organization, but it also educates the Dickinson community about Safe Harbour.”

This year, Dishes with DNu will take place on Nov. 16 in the HUB Social Hall from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased from Nov. 9 to 16 in the bottom of the hub for $5 in advance and $7 at the door.