5 Surprising Facts About Chi Omega At Ole Miss: Inside The Tau Chapter’s $60K+ Impact And New 2025 Initiatives
The Chi Omega Tau Chapter at the University of Mississippi, affectionately known as Ole Miss, is not just one of the nation’s largest and most storied sororities; it is a powerful philanthropic engine and a cornerstone of the university’s Greek life. Since its founding in 1899, the chapter has maintained a legacy of leadership, scholarship, and service that continues to evolve with fresh, impactful initiatives into the current academic year of 2025. This article dives deep into the chapter's history, its massive financial impact on charity, and the prominent figures who have emerged from its ranks, providing you with the most up-to-date and unique insights into the sisterhood.
As of late 2024 and early 2025, the Tau Chapter is solidifying its status as a top-tier philanthropic powerhouse, consistently raising over $60,000 annually for its national charity, Make-A-Wish, while simultaneously launching a significant new focus on women's health. The chapter’s commitment to its founding principles—Friendship, High Standards of Personnel, Sincere Scholarship, Campus Activities, and Career Development—is evident in every aspect of its vibrant campus presence, from the historic house on Rebel Drive to its highly anticipated annual events like Chi O Crawfish and Chi O Carnival.
Notable Alumni and The Tau Chapter’s Biographical Profile
The Tau Chapter boasts a rich, century-plus history as the first national sorority established on the University of Mississippi campus. Its members have gone on to achieve success in entertainment, business, and national leadership within the Chi Omega Fraternity itself. The chapter’s enduring influence is a testament to the strong foundation laid by its earliest members.
- Chapter Name: Tau Chapter
- University: The University of Mississippi (Ole Miss)
- Location: Oxford, Mississippi
- Date Founded: 1899
- Chapter House Address: 678 Rebel Drive, University, MS 38655
- National Philanthropy: Make-A-Wish Foundation
- Annual Fundraising Goal: Consistently over $60,000
- Notable Alumni:
- Mary Ann Mobley: Former Miss America (1959) and acclaimed actress.
- Mary Ann Frugé: Beloved former S.H. (National President) of the Chi Omega Fraternity.
- Mary Donnelly Haskell: Accomplished singer and actress who graduated with honors from Ole Miss in 1980.
- Chapter House Mother: Patti Sanders (a figure with deep roots in Oxford and the Ole Miss community).
The Philanthropic Powerhouse: Over $60,000 Annually for Make-A-Wish
Chi Omega’s national alliance with the Make-A-Wish Foundation finds one of its most dedicated and successful partners in the Tau Chapter. The Ole Miss chapter is consistently recognized as the top fundraiser for Make-A-Wish Mid-South, a title earned through tireless dedication and innovative event planning.
The chapter’s commitment is quantified in impressive figures: they raise over $60,000 annually for the foundation, directly funding wishes for children with critical illnesses in the Mid-South region. This significant financial contribution is the result of several cornerstone events that have become highly anticipated traditions within the Ole Miss Greek life and the broader Oxford community.
The Signature Events: Chi O Crawfish and Chi O Carnival
The largest and most recognized fundraiser is the annual Chi O Crawfish boil. This event, which has run for over a decade, is more than just a social gathering; it’s a deeply meaningful tradition. The event is closely tied to a personal story—the chapter often hears from individuals like Buchanan, whose family’s experience underscores the vital importance of the funds raised.
In addition to the Crawfish Boil, the Tau Chapter hosts other major fundraisers, including the Chi O Carnival and, more recently, Chi O Donuts, with events for the 2025 calendar already being planned. These events, combined with a dedicated fundraising letter drive, ensure the chapter not only meets but exceeds its ambitious goals, reinforcing its position as a leader in campus service and devotion.
Fresh Initiatives and the Future of Tau Chapter in 2025
While the commitment to Make-A-Wish remains paramount, the Chi Omega Tau Chapter is not resting on its laurels. In a significant and forward-thinking move, the chapter has announced a new philanthropic focus: a dedicated gift to benefit a Women's Health initiative. This expansion demonstrates a commitment to addressing critical needs both nationally and locally, broadening the chapter's impact beyond its primary charity.
This dual focus on Make-A-Wish and Women’s Health marks a pivotal moment for the chapter in 2025, allowing members to engage with a wider range of service projects and develop a more holistic understanding of community support. The addition of this local initiative, alongside the national partnership, ensures the Tau Chapter remains at the forefront of campus leadership and civic engagement.
The Historic House on Rebel Drive
The physical home of the Tau Chapter is as legendary as its history. Located at 678 Rebel Drive, the Chi Omega house stands as a central hub for the Panhellenic community. The structure itself has been subject to significant investment, including a recent renovation and addition that modernized resident rooms and communal bathrooms, ensuring the house continues to serve as a high-standard living and meeting space for its members.
A key figure in maintaining the house's welcoming atmosphere is the House Mother, Patti Sanders, who embodies the spirit of Ole Miss and the Oxford community. Her dedication helps to foster the strong sense of sisterhood that is a hallmark of the Tau Chapter, guiding the newest members of the pledge class as they run down the hill and begin their journey in the fraternity.
A Legacy of Leadership and Sincere Scholarship
The principles of Chi Omega—especially "Sincere Scholarship" and "High Standards of Personnel"—are deeply ingrained in the Tau Chapter's culture. Members are consistently recognized for academic excellence across various disciplines at the University of Mississippi. The chapter actively promotes career development, encouraging members to pursue leadership roles not only within the sorority but also across campus organizations, from the Associated Student Body (ASB) to various academic honor societies.
The Tau Chapter’s enduring legacy, from being the first national sorority on campus in 1899 to its current status as a top fundraiser for Make-A-Wish Mid-South and a pioneer in new Women’s Health initiatives, proves its commitment to the highest ideals of Greek life. For incoming students and those interested in the impact of the Ole Miss Panhellenic community, the Tau Chapter of Chi Omega stands as a shining example of tradition meeting modern, impactful service.
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