Eta Chi Chapter

Charter

Eta Chi Chapter, the first chapter of Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Incorporated in the State of Indiana, entered the sisterhood on Saturday, April 24, 1965.  Prior to the initiation a delicious buffet dinner was served at the home of Basileus, Daisy Borel. The Embassy Room at the Continental Hotel provided an impressive setting for the elaborate initiation ceremony for 19 charter members.  Mamie O. Garland, National Organizer from Pittsburgh, PA and Ella Rose Carter, Regional Director from St. Louis, MO officiated at the initiation. A coffee and dessert hour were held at the hotel immediately following the ceremony.

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Activities Relating to Purpose

Eta Chi Chapter is known in the Indianapolis area as a service organization; however, Eta Chi is known for its philanthropy for nursing students.  In 1985, a fund-raising event was created to support the chapter’s scholarship program.  The event was named Flip Side. Flip Side was a way for the community to see what nurses, doctors and other healthcare workers do outside of their regular occupation.  It was a variety show that consisted of musical entertainment, comedians, dance routines, theatrical skits, and many other talents that were showcased by healthcare providers.  Over the years, Flip Side has provided more than $25,000 in scholarships for nursing students. The success of the endeavor has continued for over 30 years. 

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The chapter has developed working relationships with other professional and community organizations for the improvement and delivery of health care services.  Included among these groups are Indiana University School of Nursing, the American Cancer Society, the National Kidney Foundation, and St. Jude Childrens Hospital.

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Over the years, Eta Chi has partnered with Indiana University School of Nursing to provide education regarding the Myths of Nursing to high school students who may consider nursing as a career. 

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In addition, Eta Chi Chapter has participated in health fairs to provide education to community members of all ages.  Education consists of games for children who learn about and answer age-appropriate health questions, education for seniors on home safety, and education about healthy eating and physical activity.

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