Sigma Phi Lambda, a non-denominational Christian sorority known as “Phi Lamb,” is returning to SMU after closing its chapter in 2020. The organization is currently in the process of re-establishing itself as an official chapter, with eight women who consider themselves founding mothers (members).
Phi Lamb is recognized through the university’s Office of the Chaplain and Religious Life, rather than SMU’s Panhellenic Council. The sorority has 19 chapters nationwide, with SMU set to become its 20th.
Phi Lamb President Anna Dang explained that the group’s mission is to bring women closer to Jesus and to each other through a shared bond of faith.
“We’re trying to be rooted in Christ, where the sisterhood goes beyond surface level friendship,” Dang said.
Founding mothers say Phi Lamb offers something deeper than a weekly ministry meeting. Phi Lamb Vice President Nicole Chang said that the sorority creates a stronger sense of community.
“The true bond with a sorority is that you’re constantly with the same people and really getting to know them on a deeper level,” Chang said. “It’s more about growing together rather than just expanding your circle every day.”
Faith is at the center of all Phi Lamb activities. Weekly chapter meetings include prayer, worship, devotionals and guest speakers who address different topics. Members will also participate in covenant groups, which are small gatherings where students can share their highs and lows of their week and lift one another up in prayer.
Alongside these spiritual practices, the sorority will host traditional events such as date parties, retreats, fundraisers, family events, formals and philanthropy initiatives.
Phi Lamb’s earlier chapter at SMU dissolved five years ago.
Some members of existing sororities have expressed concern that a Christian-centered sorority might draw women away from their chapters. However, university officials have been supportive. Ashley Fitzpatrick, SMU’s director of Fraternity and Sorority Life, has worked closely with Dang.
Audrey Lokar, Phi Lamb’s new membership educator, added that the sorority is about sisterhood post-college and building lifelong friendships.
“The whole point for us is to grow in our faith together, and that’s hard to do with so many temptations on campus and in life,” Lokar said.
The chapter has already secured an off-campus house near Snyder Plaza, where meetings will be held. Dues are expected to range between $250 and $350. Membership requirements include being Christian, attending church regularly, participating in Bible study and affirming the sorority’s statement of belief, the Apostles’ Creed.
Regan Shills, a founding member of Alpha Delta Pi, which was established at SMU two years ago, said one of the biggest challenges was convincing students to join a brand-new sorority without an established reputation.
Shills advised Phi Lamb to put sisterhood first and stay authentic.
“Remember that reputation isn’t built overnight,” Shills said. “It takes consistency through campus involvement, philanthropy and treating other chapters with respect.”
Dang said that 35 people are planning to pledge, and those selected will become the founding members. Phi Lamb plans to announce its first pledge class on Friday, Sept. 26, with eight founding mothers getting initiated on Nov. 16.
The founding mothers hope Phi Lamb will provide a home for students who may be struggling to find their place on campus.
“This sorority can be a home away from home,” Dang said.
The Daily Campus reached out to SMU’s Director of Fraternity and Sorority Life, Ashley Fitzpatrick, but received no comment.
