When I joined the oldest women’s service organization at USC, the Helenes, I had just started my first semester of college. Through Helenes, I have grown as a person, given back to my community and developed friends that I can count on.
As part of a biannual tradition, the Helenes welcome a new class of ladies known as “rosebuds” into our organization every semester. Two years ago, I missed my own chance to be officially welcomed into the sisterhood of service. Since then, I have witnessed four more classes of remarkable young woman partake in the eye-opening and illuminating experience of joining a selfless organization.
On Thursday evening, when the Helenes ushered in 25 new members, I captured some of the magic—faces lit up with joy as we celebrated another milestone in the nearly 90 years of our sisterhood.
Our grand welcome took place in the courtyard of the Mudd Hall of Philosophy, when the stars above were reflected in the candles each member held and in the sparkle in their eyes. The incoming class was announced and given roses, the symbol of our sisterhood.
In unison, everyone read the Helenes creed, vowing to serve proudly, generously and thoughtfully. Our garden of goodwill is sure to grow with budding roses and nurture the elderly, the homeless and the children with disabilities to whom we dedicate our time, our efforts and our hearts.
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