DEI
“To be to others what we would they would be to us… To walk in the way of honor… Striving to esteem the inner man above culture, wealth or pedigree.” These words from the Creed of Phi Mu provide a guide for noble living and are just as important today as when they were written in 1916.
In 2016, Phi Mu’s National Council created five Ends Policies to set strategic priorities for our organization. The policy focused on diversity, equity and inclusion has become an immediate priority for the Fraternity. A DEI trategic Plan Focus Group was formed in 2020 and the Phi Mu Fraternity DEI Strategic Plan was unveiled in April of 2021. The Focus Group was facilitated by Dr. Shirley Davis, the President and CEO of SDS Global Enterprises, Inc. Dr. Davis brought a unique background as a seasoned human resources and diversity and inclusion global thought leader. Her consulting fee was made possible through a generous grant from Phi Mu Foundation.
One of the many outcomes of the Focus Group’s work was writing a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Position Statement: Our core values of love, honor and truth, in principle and in practice, demand a commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion throughout Phi Mu Fraternity. Our steadfast sisterhood is strong because all members are respected, valued and celebrated for who they are.
Diversity Equity and Inclusion National Committee
Following the work of the DEI Working Group and the creation of the DEI Strategic Plan, a permanent national committee has formed currently led by Annie Schutzler (Muhlenberg). The national committee will support the work of the staff to make Phi Mu a stronger, more inclusive organization. The staff partner is Diane Humphreys (Huntingdon).
Phi Nu's DEI
At Phi Mu Phi Nu, we pride ourselves on our constant devotion to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our members come from unique backgrounds that make each individual special and allow them to bring something different to our sisterhood. Without this diversity, our chapter would not be the same. We like celebrating our abundant races, ethnicities, and religions by hosting potlucks where sisters bring cultural dishes to share with the chapter. Events like these allow members to feel not only accepted but appreciated for our differences. Within our Belonging Committee is the position of DEI Chair. This position is held by a member who dedicates their time to continuing to inform our members about the importance of DEI. At Phi Mu Phi Nu, we strive to be better every day because we know that we are never done learning. One way we continue to learn is by involving ourselves with the Coalition for Women of Color. Several of our members have been on or currently reside on the board and the rest of our chapter enjoys going to their monthly meetings to continue to foster our diverse community.
