Tri Delta collegiate and alumnae leaders traveled to Washington, D.C., to participate in the annual Fraternal Government Relations Coalition (FGRC) Hill Visits, joining fraternity and sorority members from across the country to advocate for issues impacting the Greek community.
Representing Tri Delta on Capitol Hill were collegiate leaders Mariam Nguyen, Furman; Rayna Handis, Ohio State; Lauren Bergman, Washington State and Liana Hinojosa, Texas A&M/Corpus Christi. They were joined by alumnae Catherine Hernandez-Blades, Louisiana/Lafayette; Quinn Rose Vonder Haar, Drury; and Julie Coffman Doss, Texas A&M.
Advocating for First Amendment Rights
This year’s Hill Visits centered on protecting First Amendment rights, with a strong focus on freedom of association and its impacts on student organizations. By deepening their knowledge of freedom of speech and association, participants become more informed citizens and stronger advocates for individual and organizational liberty.
The training from the First Amendment Institute (FAI) played a direct role in shaping those conversations. Attendees explored how First Amendment issues intersect with higher education, public relations and policy, giving them the tools to communicate effectively and respond to challenges facing student organizations today.
“This was one of the most meaningful experiences of my collegiate career. Being surrounded by like-minded peers and incredible mentors who are just as passionate about advocacy and making a difference reminded me why I fell in love with this organization in the first place. Beyond advocating for our Greek communities on the Hill, the career development and networking opportunities were truly unmatched. Getting to turn my love for Tri Delta into real policy work and connect with women who inspire me every step of the way is something I will always be grateful for.” —Rayna Handis
Through the First Amendment Institute and Capitol Hill Visits, Tri Delta’s members are not only learning how to advocate—they are actively shaping conversations that impact the future of student organizations nationwide.
Not in attendance: Abbey Berry, Tennessee
The FGRC is a collaborative effort that includes the National Panhellenic Conference, which is comprised of 26 women’s-only sorority organizations and the North American Interfraternity Conference (NIC), made up of 56 men’s-only fraternity organizations. In total, the FGRC represents organizations with more than 600,000 undergraduate members at 9,300 chapters on nearly 700 campuses.