On April 23 and April 24, the Xi Gamma chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, Inc. and the Omicron Pi chapter of Delta Sigma Theta sorority, Inc. of Southeast Missouri State University presented their new members in shows that demonstrated their knowledge and commitment to their respective fraternity and sorority.

For historically African American fraternities and sororities, otherwise known as the National Pan-Hellenic Council or NPHC, these shows are often referred to as a “probate”. The name probate comes from the presentations being considered the validation of their membership in the new organization.

Each probate features the new members initially masked or covered to protect their identities. The identities are often revealed toward the end of the show, and they are officially recognized as being a member of their organizations. New members must be able to recite in unison and from memory important facts related to their fraternity or sorority. These facts may include but are not limited to founders of their organizations, the mission statement of their organizations, the greek alphabet and the history of the other National Pan-Hellenic Council organizations.

There were three pledges for Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. on April 23. One of the pledges, junior business economics major Jerad Davidson, described the experience as a surreal moment.

“I was feeling anxious,” Davidson said. “I was looking out at the crowd and thinking ‘wow, look at all these people’. But something clicked, and I knew it was show-time. It was just a good feeling and we really put on a show for the crowd.“

Davidson said since joining his new fraternity, he has felt more of a sense of family than a typical greek-lettered organization, and expressed the importance of being in a fraternity which is historically African American.

“It’s more of a family than a fraternity.” Davidson said. “It’s also a pillar of black excellence. Getting to be a surrounded by successful black men is a wonderful aura to be around.”

Nine women pledged as Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. on April 24. Danielle Crawford, recording secretary of the Omicron Pi chapter, said that their show was of great importance for their sisterhood.

“The probate is for the campus to see all the hard work the ladies put into becoming young women of Delta Sigma Theta,” Crawford said. “The show was great and there was a great turnout. It’s particularly a special moment for the families who come down to see their daughters reveal themselves as new members.”

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. are two of the five NPHC organizations currently active on Southeast’s campus. The NPHC aims to contribute to the multicultural life of the university, and extend outside of the community. Any student interested in learning more about these organizations may contact the Office of Greek Life.