By RACHEL HALEY (OMICRON, BAKER UNIVERSITY), ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF HARM REDUCTION
In Alpha Chi Omega, we believe in cultivating a sisterhood where every member feels safe, respected and empowered. When we put our values first, our actions and decisions shape the culture of our chapters and strengthen our bonds. For National Hazing Prevention Week, our members proudly share their commitment to creating an inclusive sisterhood and inspire us to reflect on the impact of hazing and how we can work together to prevent it.
SPREADING AWARENESS AND SHAPING COMMUNITIES
“Our chapter takes great honor in raising awareness for National Hazing Prevention Week. We table in common areas to spread awareness, host in-chapter workshops, as well as make banners in support of this awareness week. We value our sisterhood and pride ourselves on ensuring all our members feel comfortable and welcome in our space which does not tolerate hazing of any form!”
– Hailey Elmhorst (Delta Tau, Minnesota State University, Mankato), chapter president
Conversation starter: What chapter traditions reflect Alpha Chi Omega’s values and help prevent hazing (sisterhood events, member retreats, etc.)?
STRENGTHING SISTERHOOD THROUGH SHARED VALUES
“One way I’ve helped build a healthier sisterhood is by making sure every member feels safe, supported and heard. As vice president risk management, I’ve worked hard to remove the pressure and stigma around safety conversations, turning them into opportunities to care for one another. Whether it’s sending reminders before a big weekend, checking in with sisters one-on-one or creating space for people to share their concerns, I strive to be someone they know they can come to without judgment. I truly believe that growing alongside each other is beautiful and only strengthens our sisterhood. I’m grateful every day for the chance to learn more about each of my sisters and to continue being a resource and support within the Theta chapter. I feel so lucky to be part of this sisterhood!”
– Caroline Coleman (Theta, University of Michigan), vice president risk management
Conversation starter: What’s one way you’ve helped build a healthier sisterhood in your chapter?
THE VALUE OF HAZING PREVENTION 
“Hazing prevention matters to me because every woman deserves a safe space to grow and thrive. Alpha Chi Omega is a place for real, strong women to grow, and creating an environment where women feel valued, seen and heard is essential. My love for Alpha Chi Omega has only continued to grow as I've deepened my connections with other sisters in an environment built on trust and safety. I want every woman to have that experience.”
– Maya Solis-Stokes (Beta Xi, Utah State University), vice president recruitment
Conversation starter: Why does hazing prevention matter to you?
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PREVENTION WITH INTENTION
“At Delta Epsilon we encourage each other to be the best versions of ourselves. We found it’s very helpful to learn of Alpha Chi Omega’s policies they have in place to ensure everyone is having a positive Alpha Chi Omega experience. Finding event monitors to ensure the safety of our events and explaining the “why” behind our events have been critical to our success as a chapter."
– Erin Urhahn (Delta Epsilon, Southeast Missouri State University), chapter president
Conversation starter: What is one piece of advice you would give to create a safe, values-driven chapter experience?
BECOMING CHAMPIONS FOR CHANGE
“I really strive to make sure everyone is included and involved with what is happening. I know what it’s like to be singled out of an event, and I don’t want to make that happen for anyone else. I believe that we cannot have ‘no discords in the harmony of life’ without being able to be selfless and respectful to our peers.”
– Kalissa Willie (Delta Tau, Minnesota State University, Mankato)
Conversation starter: In what ways do you contribute to creating spaces where individuals feel valued, included and supported to be their most authentic selves?