CONTACT: Michelle Dahnke, Centennial Co-Chair (954) 494-7471

By Elizabeth Peter
April 4, 2008

CHI OMEGA TO UNVEIL GIFT TO FSU, CATALYST FOR NEW ‘GREEK PARK’

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Several hundred Florida State University Chi Omega alumnae dating back to 1936 have donated more than $40,000 to commemorate their time in the sorority through the beautification of what will now be known as “Greek Park.”

Saturday, April 5, current and past Chi Omega members will unveil a gift to the university -- a large statue that will be the catalyst for renovation and beautification of the green space between Landis Hall and Jefferson Street.

Greek Park is located just up the street from the building that has been home to the Chi Omegas since 1958.

“We are most appreciative of the contributions that Chi Omega has made to support the creation of this plaza and our Greek Park,” said FSU President T.K. Wetherell. “The park will be a beautiful milepost along our Legacy Walk.”

With its 15-foot height, graceful design and unique use of multiple patinas, the beautiful “Three Sisters” statue conveys a classic elegance and seems a fitting addition to a historically significant area of the campus.

All Greek organizations will be encouraged to follow in the footsteps of Chi Omega and expand Greek Park with their own beautification projects.

As of March 24, the sorority had raised just under $43,000. Of that, $36,000 had already been collected and $7,000 was pledged. The initial goal was $25,000. Donations and pledges have been received from 144 FSU Chi Omegas. The first pledge class represented is 1936 and each decade following is represented, as well.

This weekend also represents Chi Omega’s Centennial on campus in Tallahassee. Events will be ongoing throughout the weekend, including a Memorial Service for sisters in the Omega Chapter, campus bus tours and dinners.

Chi Omega is expecting approximately 400 alumnae from across the nation to attend this weekend’s activities.

Chi Omega’s current chapter, Gama Chapter, at FSU includes 155 members, 38 of those living at the Chi Omega House on Jefferson Street. In 2007, the Gamma Chapter received the Award of Excellence from Chi Omega National Fraternity, the highest honor given to outstanding chapters.

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