Letter from the President

My name is Skyla Whelan, and I am the president of the Zeta Gamma chapter of Delta Gamma. At the University of Richmond. I am a Junior majoring in Political Science and Global Studies with a concentration in policy and governance and a minor in History. 

I joined Delta Gamma through Continuous Open Bidding during my sophomore year at Richmond, and it was truly the best decision I’ve made during my time at UR. Delta Gamma has given me not only lifelong friendships and sisters, but also valuable opportunities outside of our chapter. This past summer, I was allowed to meet Delta Gammas on a national level at Lewis Institute, and I found that DG has embedded strong values in us all. Delta Gamma fosters an environment where you can truly flourish. I have watched myself grow by surrounding myself with strong, passionate women who value our philanthropic initiative as much as I do and value the bonds created in DG. 

Delta Gamma is more than just a sorority; it's a promise to live by our motto, “Do Good”, every day. DGs throughout the country “Do Good” in many different ways, but all of our actions are rooted in kindness and sisterhood. Every individual chapter, member, and experience is different, but we all share values that bond us to this sisterhood and the philanthropy that we love. Our dedication to service helps unify all Delta Gammas. Something we pride is that Delta Gamma was the first women’s fraternity to create its own philanthropic foundation, Service for Sight. Our foundation funds five schools for children with visual impairments, in addition to supporting other organizations that promote sight preservation and conservation. 

Zeta Gamma’s signature philanthropy event, a hot dog stand called DG Grillin’ For Good, is one way we raise money every year to benefit Service for Sight. Additionally, Zeta Gamma works with local organizations to improve the livelihood of individuals with visual impairments. The overarching goal to “Do Good” goes beyond our philanthropic foundation as we strive to make a positive impact on our communities as individuals. 

Since its establishment in 1987, the Zeta Gamma chapter has received the Patricia Peterson Danielson award six times, most recently in 2021. This award is given to Delta Gamma chapters who exceed the Fraternity’s Standards. More recently, Zeta Gamma was given the H.K. Stuart Award for Service in 2024! This award recognized Zeta Gamma’s achievement of the most service hours per capita of any collegiate chapter across the country. Our chapter continues to have one of the highest member-to-service-hour ratios year after year. 

Delta Gamma has created a home for me beyond my university's campus and given me friendships that span from Richmond to all across the United States. Joining the Zeta Gamma chapter has transformed my college experience and positively influenced the way I view the world. Through developing my leadership skills and love of civic engagement, I have become an embodiment of what it means to truly “Do Good”. Please reach out if you have any questions! 

ITB, Skyla Whelan