Southeast Missouri State University student publication

NPHC keeps up their homecoming tradition one step at a time

Wednesday, October 17, 2018
Members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorioty, Inc. stroll the auditorium when the points were being calculated.
Photo by Charles D. Hamilton ~ Arrow Reporter

Greeks chanted and strolled throughout Academic Hall’s auditorium as the audience supported them with endless cheers during “School Daze,” an annual homecoming step show Oct. 13, hosted by the National Panhellenic Council.

The step show consisted of performances called “strolling” by fraternities and sororities of the council. Strolling is an NPHC tradition going back to the 1900s. Each member gathers with their brothers and sisters in a line and performs a dance routine unique to their respected fraternities and sororities.

To kick off the event, Joshua Howard of Omega Psi Phi encouraged participation from the crowd with some call and response.

“Since it’s homecoming, let’s do a little roll call,” Howard said. Everyone from freshmen to alumni proudly responded to his calls to represent their respected classifications.

Three sororities, Delta Sigma Theta, Zeta Phi Beta and Sigma Gamma Rho competed in the competition for best routine.

Five women of Delta Sigma Theta performed first, setting the bar for the competition. Their routine was inspired by “Little Red Riding Hood.” Soror Jaleea Hudson-Wilson ended the performance with a solo routine.

Next on the list was four women of Zeta Phi Beta. The sorors let their presence be known while performing, by chanting that if there is one thing the Zetas never worry about, it is “a hater.” Anticipation grew as the competition was nearing an end.

Four women of Sigma Gamma Rho followed the Zetas, beginning their routine with an upbeat version of “It’s a Hard Knock Life.”

While waiting for the results, the sororities and fraternities strolled around the auditorium.

The results were announced in ascending order, with Delta Sigma Theta's named for third place, followed by Zeta Phi Beta for second. The women of Sigma Gamma Rho rejoiced upon hearing the results because they already knew where they placed in the competition. They were awarded first place for their performance.

The evening was concluded with one last stroll by all of the fraternities and sororities in attendance and an announcement by Josh Howard, who thanked everyone for attending and wished them a happy remainder of the homecoming weekend.

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