Wednesday, September 23, 2026

It’s That Time Again: Fall 2026 Rush



                                       I can’t believe it’s that time again—Fall 2026 Rush is here!

As everyone settles back into school life after almost a month on campus, I’m sure many schools have already hosted their Back-to-School celebrations, Yard Shows, Meet the Greeks, and other campus events. If you’re a freshman, I highly recommend attending as many of these events as possible. This is your opportunity to get to know your classmates, meet people from different organizations, and learn more about the culture and community on your campus.

But don’t just attend events—get involved!

Join Student Government. Check out the Black Student Union. Write for the student newspaper or yearbook. Volunteer. Attend campus programs. Find organizations that align with your interests and passions.

You want to make connections, build relationships, and get your name out there. More importantly, you want to find ways to contribute to the campus community.

If you’re a sophomore, junior, or senior, you should already be thinking about how you can become even more involved. And if there’s a cause you’re passionate about but your school doesn’t have an organization dedicated to it, this could be the perfect opportunity to start one.

Be the voice of change.

Make Your Voice Heard

This is also an important time to remember the power of our voices through civic engagement. Consider getting involved with a voter-registration drive or other nonpartisan civic-engagement efforts on your campus.

So many of the organizations we become involved with are centered around making our voices heard, serving our communities, and advocating for social justice. Your campus is a place where you can put those values into action.

Don’t wait for someone else to create the opportunity. Sometimes, you have to be willing to step up and create it yourself.

Behind the Lens

This past year, I had the honor of serving as the Midwest and Far West Regional Conference Photographer. I have truly enjoyed attending these conferences, meeting so many incredible people, and hearing about the wonderful work my organization is doing in the areas of social justice and community service.

One of the greatest blessings for me has been being able to capture my sorors doing the work through my lens.

There is something incredibly special about being behind the camera and watching people dedicate their time, energy, and talents to making a difference. Every photograph tells a story, but the stories behind those photographs—the service, sacrifice, advocacy, and commitment are what mean the most to me.

And it isn’t just my organization making a difference. Every organization, every student, every volunteer, every advocate, and every person who decides to use their voice and talents to help others has the ability to create change.


To Those Pursuing Membership in D9

To everyone who is pursuing membership in the Divine Nine this Fall, I wish you nothing but the best during this season.

Remember that there is so much more to campus life than simply being interested in joining an organization. Take this time to learn, grow, serve, and build genuine relationships.

If I could leave you with one piece of advice, it would be this:

The best way to get noticed is to get involved.

Make your voice heard.
Make a difference.
Serve your community.
Build meaningful relationships.
Be a leader.
And, of course, study and keep those grades up!

Your academic success should always remain a priority.

Whether you’re a freshman just finding your way around campus or an upperclassman preparing for your next chapter, use this school year to make an impact. Get involved in the things that matter to you. Find your purpose. Stand for something. And never underestimate the difference you can make when you decide to show up.

Wishing everyone pursuing membership the very best during Fall 2026 Rush season!

Now go out there, get involved, make your voice heard, and be the change you want to see.

Wednesday, July 22, 2026

How are ya'll out there?

Hey Everyone!!!!! 💙

I can't believe we're already approaching the end of summer. Seriously, where has the time gone? In just a couple of weeks, I'll be heading back into the classroom and preparing for another school year.  I first spent the first part of my summer going home to visit my family in Chicago. During my visit, I was blessed go to the Obama Center. It was amazing!

How has everyone's summer been so far? For my neophytes, how has life been since crossing those sands? Have any of you attended your first Regional Conference, Conclave, Convention, Boule, Leadership Seminar, or other national event? Do you have any upcoming conferences or events on your calendar for the next few weeks or months?

This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to serve as the official photographer for the Mighty Midwest Region of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. during their regional conference in Detroit—and what an amazing experience it was! Although I stayed busy capturing the many events, I truly enjoyed every moment. The energy, sisterhood, and memories created throughout the conference were simply unforgettable. Here is a snippet of my different comfy outfits I captured during the conference. 


I'm also excited to share that I'll be photographing the Fabulous Far Western Regional Conference in Utah this September. If you'll be attending, I would absolutely love to meet you in person, so please don't hesitate to say hello!

I want to extend a heartfelt congratulations to the Zealous Ladies of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, on a successful Boule a few weeks ago. Congratulations as well on welcoming your newest honorary members. What an exciting and historic occasion!

 To my Pretty Ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha who is currently wrapping up their Boule in Via Las Vegas. My timeline has been filled with Pink and Green all week.  Congrats to your Honorary Members...what a LIST!!!! 


To my Pretty Poodles of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc., wishing you all the best as you are prepared to paint Tampa Florida Blue and Gold.

Wishing everyone a wonderful remainder of the summer, and I look forward to hearing about all the amazing things you've been up to! Drop a line or two and share how your summer has been so far. To the neos, how has your 1st summer been in Greekland? To my prospects out there, how are you preparing for upcoming Fall and Spring Rush? I would love to hear from you ALL!  💙

Ciao,
V

Sunday, January 11, 2026

Spring Rush 2026

It’s that time again!!!!! I hope you all are ready for this season. Remember, if it’s your time, IT’S YOUR TIME! A few things to keep in mind:

  1. If you need a letter of recommendation from a financial member of the organization you want to join, make sure you provide them with all the details well in advance.

  2. Meet ALL deadlines. There will be hundreds of prospects vying for a spot, so make sure everything is submitted on time and in order.

  3. If you need a copy of your transcript, request it now rather than later. You don’t want that to be the reason you’re held up.

  4. Funds matter. Hopefully, you’ve been saving! It would be unfortunate to be selected and then unable to continue due to a lack of funds.

  5. Have someone you trust—and preferably a member of the organization—review your packet. They can help guide you and ensure everything is complete and correct.

  6. Ask questions! Rush is not only a time to receive information but also to ask questions. You should be well-informed about the process and expectations.

  7. Review your application multiple times. Make sure everything is filled out correctly. If something doesn’t apply to you, write N/A instead of leaving it blank.

  8. Stay busy! Once your application is submitted, keep yourself occupied while you wait to hear back. It’s easier said than done, but it truly helps.

  9. Don’t HATE. I get it—you may feel your packet was perfect, yet still wasn’t chosen for whatever reason. Remember, most organizations don’t rely solely on your packet; members also vote on who they want in their chapter. If it’s not your time, don’t give up. Keep pushing forward. Many people who’ve followed my blog for years didn’t make it until their 3rd or 4th try. Go back and read the comments—you’ll see. They didn’t quit, and neither should you.

  10. GOOD LUCK! Wishing you all the best as you apply to the organization of your dreams.