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 Nu's DEI
Phi Mu Rho Nu consistently continues to grow our DEI efforts by continually learning about diversity, equity, and inclusion and how it effects those in our communities. Overall, Rho Nu holds DEI events such as the opportunity to hear from incredible DEI speakers in our community and holding movie nights that relate to our DEI topic of the month! We strive to create a community of belonging, with our DEI initiatives at our forefront. Our DEI Chairwoman plans DEI Minutes that include a minute presentation about a community, disability, or current topic that is relevant to what is changing in our world. Our chapter looks forward to these Minutes at our weekly Chapter meetings as they help us continue our learning and growth in regards to DEI. They also teach the chapter about allyship and engage in crucial conversations with our members. If you have any questions about Rho Nu's DEI initiatives, reach out to our DEI Chairwoman, Paisley Besanko-Jensen at nkuphimu.dei@gmail.com.
