UConn’s Panhellenic Council – the governing body for nine sororities at the University – was one of just 12 such groups out of nearly 600 to be recognized for national excellence this year.

The council received the College Panhellenic Excellence Award from the National Panhellenic Conference, which confers the honor on councils that “have demonstrated outstanding contributions to all award criteria which include academic innovation, community impact, leadership, recruitment, programming and marketing.” UConn’s council was one of 12 to receive this award, out of more than 580.

“It shows the strength that we have built in the council over the past few years and shows how we grow with the changing world, practice diversity, equity, and inclusion, and counteract the stigmas that are typically drawn about us,” says Panhellenic President Katherine Bates ’25 (CLAS).

The council serves as the governing board of the nine Panhellenic sororities on campus, and over the past three years, has worked to expand the culture of the community in efforts to meet national standards. This culture change emphasizes the positive impact they want to have on not only all of the women in sorority chapters, but also within the broader UConn community.

One of their main goals is to destigmatize sororities and challenge negative impressions that are sometimes associated with Greek life on campus. This year, Panhellenic recruitment was up by 47%, a strong indication that their efforts are bearing fruit.

“Joining Panhellenic allowed me to build a professional network,” Bates says. “Without the leadership experience I gained through my sorority and the Panhellenic council, I wouldn’t have become as well connected with the University and involved in other clubs. The social relationships lead to professional relationships. Panhellenic brings out the best in people by learning social and professional skills and applying them to their academics and jobs.”

The council’s Executive Vice President, Naomi Mathew ’26 (CLAS), says the Panhellenic community is a tight-knit group within UConn’s large student body.

“Every single connection in the Panhellenic community is true, which has shaped my experience. My life here would never be the same without my sorority chapter or this community, and I am so grateful to have found something that is greater than any degree,” she says.

The Panhellenic community at UConn contributes to a unique college experience, members say, fostering a sense of togetherness among all sororities, offering leadership opportunities, and connecting young women with philanthropic values. Council members say that being recognized on a national level not only acknowledges their outstanding achievements, but promotes the uplifting and inspiring community the Panhellenic council has built for undergraduate women on campus.