Sigma Chi’s annual philanthropy week, Derby Days, concluded with a “safe” Serenade on Friday.
Throughout the week of April 13, several events were held to raise money for Sigma Chi’s philanthropy, The Huntsman Cancer Foundation. Although these events serve to promote cancer awareness and raise funds, there have been problems with intoxication and injuries in past years at the final event, Serenade, as revealed by police reports.
However, this year went well, according to Sigma Chi executive members. There were a few changes, including a location shift from the Heuser Art Center parking lot to Olin Quad and a resolution passed by Panhellenic Council (PHC) to prohibit sorority chapter members’ participation in philanthropic activities involving alcohol.
The resolution was drafted in fall 2014, stating that the seven sororities would not participate in demeaning themes and activities or allow alcoholic beverages at PHC attended events, excepting venues licensed to sell them.
“I think the biggest thing is our community recognized that there was a lot of philanthropic activities that were involving alcohol and, according to the policies of our seven organizations on campus in the national Panhellenic council, that’s not okay,” Assistant Director for Fraternity and Sorority Life Nancy Schwartz said.
However, Schwartz emphasized that the Derby Days Serenade is not the only philanthropic activity where alcohol has been involved. She said it is because it is one of the larger, more popular events that it receives greater scrutiny.
Schwartz said the previous location and setup did not allow for effective risk management. After speaking with the Bradley University Police Department and the Student Activities Office, a new location was chosen.
“I so appreciate the fraternity,” Schwartz said. “Sigma Chi was incredible. They were so awesome in just working with it and going with the flow and just being really responsive, which it was really cool to see them make that awesome effort.”
Both Schwartz and the fraternity members were in agreement that the week was a success.
Events like a mural painting contest, Derby Darlings pageant, penny wars and a cookout raised money for their philanthropy. Their goal this year is $8,000 – $9,000. According to Derby Days Chair and Recruitment Co-Chair Jake Lawniczak, all of their proceeds from the week go toward The Huntsman Cancer Foundation.
“I think one thing that makes us really successful is that we put our own money into it,” Lawniczak, a junior civil engineering major, said. “So the hats, that’s $700 that we just throw into this [event] to make it worth it. All the murals we buy, all the paint we buy, unless the girls want to buy their own. We put a lot of effort into trying to make this a big thing. Serenade doesn’t make any money, but it’s just for fun, trying to get people involved, which is why this probably turned out as well as it has. From what I know, it’s one of the biggest philanthropies on campus.”
Sigma Chi Philanthropy Chair Will Kennedy said one of the best aspects to the week is to be able to spread awareness about The Huntsman Cancer Foundation and teach others about the organization.
Chi Omega won Derby Days, with Kappa Delta coming in second and Gamma Phi Beta in third. According to Jake Lawniczak, more than $6,000 has already been collected, with donations still coming in.
