EMILY HENDERSON
STAFF WRITER
Photo by RAUL RIVERA
Due to the ongoing pandemic students may have noticed a few changes to this year’s events. Derby Days and Greek week are no different.
Greek week has recently come to a close, with many having participated in the events. Greek week is an event that all the Greek organizations on campus took part in and was created as a way for these groups to earn money for their various philanthropies.
This year Greek week may have looked different than years prior, with a lot of in-person events being moved to a virtual format to ensure the safety of those participating.
Some of the events included different dress-up days during the week such as letters day or formal attire. There were also different challenges that occurred throughout the week. A scavenger hunt, trivia night and social media challenge were just a few of the events that took place during this week-long event.
“Anything that is done in person is meant to be socially distanced and obviously requires masks,” said Julia Neuvirth (‘21).
Social distancing as well as mask wearing were required to participate in any of the in-person events that occurred during the week, as well as any event that is hosted at Alma College.
This year Greek week was hosted as a way for these organizations to earn money for their philanthropic ventures.
If you missed the happenings from this year’s Greek week fret not, as more philanthropic events are just around the corner. Sigma Chi’s annual philanthropic event Derby Days will commence this year in just a few short days.
The brothers of Sigma Chi will host a myriad of events during the week to raise money for the Huntsman Cancer Institution.
The Huntsman Cancer Institution, founded in 1995, is an organization that works towards cancer research and is located in the state of Utah. All Sigma Chi fraternities across the nation have been raising money for the Huntsman Cancer Institution since 2012.
The question at the forefront of many minds is how the brothers will be able to host these events in a way that is safe for all.
“Derby Days will be different this year due to the pandemic. There will be a mix of socially distanced events and online events that consist of virtual events and social media challenges,” said Brandon Ralston (‘21).
Events this year will allow for students to be able to donate and participate while still remaining healthy and distant. While Greek week focuses more on those a part of Greek life, Sigma Chi’s Derby Days is meant for all students to enjoy.
“We love having non-Greek students participate because it demonstrates that Greek life is about more than partying,” said Ralston.
Many Greek organizations focus on hosting events meant to raise money for their philanthropic venture and are a way for students to donate money to organizations while also participating in different happenings on campus.