There are plenty of voices in the higher education world asking if fraternities and sororities have outlived their usefulness.
There are so many ways today’s college student can experience leadership and community, why should students join fraternities and sororities?
Julie Cain Burkhard is the most recent past-chairman of the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC). She is widely considered to be one of the most progressive leaders currently shaping the interfraternal world. Under her leadership, NPC began a number of exciting new strategic initiatives and worked hard to update the organization’s image within higher education.
Now she is taking that progressive spirit and helping students and college communities understand the potential that fraternity and sorority membership offers.
Point blank, if you need some re-boosting in your Panhellenic community, Julie is the woman for your campus. When Julie was brought to [our campus], she spoke about what it means to be a Panhellenic woman...She focused on the ideals of which, we as Panhellenic women, strive to live. She re-instilled in us that being a Panhellenic woman doesn't just stop after our undergraduate years, but is something that is life long and that no one can ever take away from you.
Nicole Finkel, University of North Florida
Why Fraternities and Sororities Still Matter
Her keynote, “Why Fraternities and Sororities Still Matter,” Julie addresses the topic of fraternal relevance head-on. She will help your students understand how the history of their organizations provides an enduring example for today’s members; and will also help them understand their role in making their chapters relevant for future students. By telling their stories, actively defining their positive experiences and remembering to “never take off your badge,” students will be empowered to work hard to ensure the continued success of their organization’s values. Julie also has a version for Panhellenics audiences, “Why Sorority Still Matters.”
Anyone who has met Julie knows that she is a passionate advocate for the potential of Fraternity and Sorority Life, and she will inspire your students to make the most of the leadership potential their organizations offer. Her messages about the importance of Fraternity and Sorority Life are perfect for Greek Week events, new member convocations, pre-recruitment keynotes, year-end events and more.
Julie's Bio
Before spending six years on the NPC executive committee, Julie spent more than two decades in volunteer positions with Alpha Chi Omega Fraternity, culminating with four years as the sorority’s national president. She has presented at Greek regional conferences, NASPA, AFA and a variety of campuses. She has served in faculty positions for UIFI and IFI, and she has lobbied members of Congress on behalf of the interfraternal community.
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