This is a nearly complete collection of oversized, matted color composite photographs of the sorority, 1983-2021. The photographs are organized by size and chronologically. All the composites include the color portraits, names, and officer positions of the sorority members; the sorority name, Central Michigan University, the academic year, the coat of arms of the sorority with its moto, Les Souers Fideles, and the name of the photography company. The composites are in good condition, but most have sustained some edge damage and have tape around the periphery of the back side. Most of the composites are mounted on heavy board. Sizes of the composites vary in size from 24x30 to 42x53 inches. A few of the composites in the collection include photographs of sweethearts. A photograph of Emerson, a service dog, is included in 2020/21. The composites for 2015/16 and 2016/17 list a few names for women whose photographs are not included. A few composites have tape damage on the front. Years missing from the collection include: 1987/88; 1994/95; 2001/02; 2007/08; and 2013/14. Photographers are identified on every composite and include: 1983-1990/91 Fraternal Composite Service, Inc.; 1991/92-1993/94 Vantine Studios, Hamilton, NY; 1993/94-2004/05 Custom Composites, Inc.; and 2005/06-2020/21 Digital Pix and Composites, LLC. The collection is stored in oversized folders in map cabinet drawers.
Organizational History:
A group of Lambda Chi Alpha little sisters formed a local sorority, Delta Rho, in 1981, which was accepted as an associate member by the Panhellenic Council on September 2, 1981. Their goal was to become affiliated nationally. On October 3, 1983, Delta Rho became the Rho Delta colony of Phi MU. After building their membership to 29, they were recommended for national installation. Phi Mu Fraternity Rho Delta Chapter was installed by the national chapter at Central Michigan University (CMU) on January 19, 1985. A ritual ceremony was held in the University Center (UC) Annex, followed by a reception in the UC. The first president of the CMU sorority was Elizabeth Sheets, a junior from Benzonia, Michigan. (This information is from the 1985 Chippewa, pp. 71-72.) Nationally founded in 1852, Phi Mu is a women’s organization which provides personal and academic development, service to others, commitment to excellence, and lifelong friendship through a shared tradition. Phi Mu promotes vibrant living, encouraging members to achieve their personal best. (This information is from the website of the Phi Mu Fraternity Rho Delta chapter at CMU, accessed in June 2022. For more detail, please refer to this website.)
