From Our President 2021

Dearest Alumnae and Friends of Willard Sorority,

In the fall of 2019, I registered for formal recruitment with the hope of simply making friends and familiarizing myself with campus. Stepping foot in Willard, I immediately felt at ease and at home, laughing and talking with women as if I had known them for years. As I enter my Junior year, I have been blessed with the opportunity to serve as the Sisterhood and Diversity Chair, as well as current President of the chapter that inspires me daily.

Since the founding of Willard Sorority in 1889, members have striven to uphold our five pillars of character, sisterhood, scholarship, service and commitment in their journeys to perfect womanhood. Today, the chapter is home to sixty-six incredible women who exemplify every pillar. Each Willard brings unique life experiences, stories, passions, and knowledge; all of which contribute greatly to the diversity of the chapter. Willard Sorority is more than just a house on a corner; it is a place where each sister feels valued and welcome. On behalf of the active chapter of Willard Sorority, welcome to the nation’s oldest and largest local sorority!

The women of Willard are leaders in the classroom and beyond. Over the years, Willard has placed in the top among the Nebraska Wesleyan University Greek Community in regard to academic success. In the 2021 spring semester, Willard Sorority had a cumulative grade point average of 3.73, exceeding that of the all sorority, all Greek, all female and all university semester grade point averages. Willards excel academically and are rewarded through initiation into academic honoraries. Over the past several years, Willard women have taken advantage of the many experiential learning opportunities available on Wesleyan’s campus including the Capital Hill Internship Program, study abroad programs, internships and various research opportunities.

Each semester, the active chapter host events promoting sisterhood. Retreats, formals, socials, study nights and every event in between allow women to create memories and develop lifelong friendships. Other events are held to recognize individuals in our lives, celebrate achievements, honor the Nebraska Wesleyan staff who contribute to our education and show our endless appreciation to the alumnae who support our chapter in every conceivable way.

Each active member participates in at least twelve hours of community service per semester, giving their time and talent towards local organizations. While the pandemic made in-person opportunities scarce, Willards still were able to make substantial impacts. Additionally, we participate in annual philanthropies as a chapter. The proceeds from Rock-A-Thon, our annual fall philanthropy, hosted in partnership with a fraternity on campus, benefit Make-A-Wish Nebraska. In the Spring, we host our annual Build Your Own Burrito event which serves Fresh Start, a women’s shelter in Lincoln. We also host S’more Local Love, whose proceeds are donated to a local cause that speaks to the active chapter.

I feel so incredibly lucky. I can sincerely say that I cannot imagine my life without my sisters by my side. Words cannot adequately express how incredibly special Willard is and how grateful I am to be a part of this wonderful family. I would not be the person that I am today without the love and support of the women within my chapter. I will never be able to thank Willard and the women of Willard enough for what they have and continue to bring to my life.

Willard Love and all of mine,

Ellie Roselius