Students involved in ISU’s Greek community remember March for a much different reason than basketball. It’s the month for a dance show that began in 1976 when the women of Chi Omega hosted a competition among the Greeks to honor member Jody Swanson.
Swanson was diagnosed with cancer and treated at the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Peoria. Competition proceeds went to St. Jude that year and until the early 2000s, when Chi Omega started supporting the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
The March Madness dance competition continues to unite ISU’s Greek community to benefit a wonderful cause. Fraternities and sororities practice for months to battle for first, second and third place awards. During the show, a Make-A-Wish child tells about a dream that came true through the foundation. Last year’s event raised $27,000, with the goal expected to increase annually.
This year, as the show marks 38 years, the Chi Omega Rho Kappa chapter celebrates its 40th anniversary. Members will host events April 11-12. Alumni are invited to participate in campus tours, dinners, and chapter home visits. Go to Alumni.IllinoisState.edu/ChiOmega for more information.
