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).
Rho Zeta's DEI
Phi Mu’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is rooted in the Fraternity’s core values of love, honor, and truth. The words of the Phi Mu Creed encourage members to treat others with respect and to value each person beyond differences in culture, wealth, or background. These principles continue to guide Phi Mu’s commitment to creating an environment where every member feels respected, valued, welcomed, and celebrated for who they are. For Rho Zeta, DEI is important because our chapter is a community made up of individuals with different backgrounds, experiences, perspectives, and identities. Practicing DEI means making sure every sister feels that she belongs and that her voice matters. It encourages us to learn from one another, respect our differences, challenge assumptions, and create a chapter environment where everyone has the opportunity to participate and feel supported. By putting Phi Mu’s values of love, honor, and truth into practice, Rho Zeta can continue building a sisterhood where differences are respected, individuality is celebrated, and every member feels valued.
