Sidney Hurwitz plays a huge part in the Greek community. The Greek community involves many different sororities and fraternities that are interconnected to better the community and provide a sense of comfort for college students as they transition away from their hometowns. Sisterhood and brotherhood are valued greatly, but charitable acts and staying social are important to each sorority and fraternity as well. Sidney’s role is playing the president of the Alpha Epsilon Phi sorority, and she has many tasks to succeed at and duties to fulfill. Her job not only helps out the Greek community, but makes a difference in the community too. Here are some of the questions I asked Sidney to understand her position and Greek life a little more:
What compelled you to want to be the AEPhi president?
I have been involved in AEPhi from an early point on in my membership. My time in AEPhi has been so rewarding, so when Executive elections rolled around, I knew I wanted to take my involvement in our chapter to the next level. Many friends supported my decision, and urged me to run even when I doubted myself. Above all else, I was inspired by the Presidents before me (#SisterShoutOut Giselle, Alexa, Nicolette and all members of the #PastPrezClub!), and I wanted to honor and build on their dedication to our sorority!
What are you responsible for as AEPhi president?
Essentially, I oversee a 13-member Executive Board, as well as a 215-member chapter, and I make sure that we achieve our social, academic and philanthropic goals. I aim to help the women of AEPhi thrive on all levels in any way I can. A “day on the job” (although I do not consider this a job because of my love for #PHI) includes membership communication, email correspondence between our chapter and our National leaders, and meetings with my Executive Board. Communication between all members is key. Our Executive Board always strives to be transparent and trustworthy, which is why every Monday after Chapter I host “Oval O(phi)ce Hours” to offer my services to those who need it! Stop by from 7-9 P.M. if you want to chat, no topic is off the table. ;)
What is your favorite part of being the AEPhi president?
My presidency has allowed me to connect with all of my sisters on a more personal level. I have formed new relationships with girls of all ages, and I know that I can rely on all of them the same way that they rely on me! Additionally, I am learning more about myself as I take on this leadership position. I have already gained important skills that I know will better my future, and I look forward to seeing what the rest of my term has in store for me!
What is your favorite part of being a member in AEPhi?
AEPhi’s core values align with what I value most in my personal life. All sisters respect our shared heritage and philanthropic causes, all while embodying the three columns of our insignia: beauty, strength, and wisdom. AEPhi has connected me to so many girls who exemplify these three qualities, and I feel lucky to call them my best friends!
What is your favorite part of being in the Greek community?
The Greek community is amazing because all of its member’s support one another, regardless of the letters they wear. Sororities and fraternities alike attend each other’s social and philanthropic events, and I feel this really exemplifies the good that the Greek community brings back to the Madison area. I urge all #NewBadgers to Go Greek – it’s connected me with my best friends, it’s taught me leadership skills, and it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made to date!
What else are you involved in at UW-Madison?
Last semester, I was a director for the AEPhi Humorology cast! I’ve held other positions within our sorority as well, including House Manager. Outside of AEPhi, I am a member of the National Speech Language and Hearing Association (NSSLHA). I also try (HARD emphasis on try) to stay active on campus by attending weekly yoga classes! But if my parents ask, I workout at least 4 times a week….
How does your involvement make you feel connected to the Madison community?
Often times, your social circle is so comfortable, so you feel no need to branch out. Involvement in our community allows me to broaden my own circle, put myself in new situations, and come out with new, incredible relationships! Community involvement has also led me to discover my interests and declare my major, Communication Sciences and Disorders! I am also pursuing a certificate in Education and Educational Studies.
Overall, do you feel like you make a difference to society? If so, how?
I would like to hope I have made some difference to our community. My main goal as President is to foster an environment of love and support for my members, so that they can become their best selves. It is so important to join an organization where you can rely on its leaders and members; if at least one girl feels supported by me, I will be satisfied with the work I have put forth. Our chapter has made many positive strides in the past few years, and as President, it is my hope to bring these changes to light and carry on tradition. At the end of the day, it is the incredible women in my chapter making a huge difference, and I feel so honored to lead them through it all!
Sidney is an amazing asset to the Greek community and seems to really have accomplished a lot already as president. It is important to get involved on campus and find something to do that you love.