What Is a Sorority Probate? Guide to the Ceremony, History, and Traditions
A sorority is a social organization for women, typically on college campuses, fostering sisterhood, leadership, and community service. Many belong to national/international groups identified by Greek letters, such as Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA) or Delta Sigma Theta (DST). These organizations, especially historically Black sororities under the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC, or “Divine Nine”), use traditions like probates to celebrate new members and uphold cultural legacies.
Table of Contents
Sorority Probate vs. Legal Probate: Key Differences
| Sorority Probate | Legal Probate |
| Celebrates new members’ initiation | Settles a deceased person’s estate |
| Involves stepping, chants, and unity | Involves court filings and asset distribution |
| Rooted in African American traditions | Governed by state laws |
What Is a Sorority Probate?
A sorority probate is a public “coming out” ceremony where new members (neophytes) are introduced after completing a rigorous, secretive intake process. It’s the culmination of weeks of learning the sorority’s history, values, and traditions. Think of it as a debutante ball meets cultural celebration—complete with performances, chants, and sisterly pride.
The Tradition and Significance
Probates are central to NPHC sororities like AKA, DST, Zeta Phi Beta, and Sigma Gamma Rho. These events:
- Celebrate New Members: Honor neophytes’ dedication.
- Foster Unity: Unite Greek communities (other sororities/fraternities attend).
- Preserve Culture: Feature strolling (synchronized dance rooted in African traditions).
- Build Legacy: Connect new members to the sorority’s history (e.g., Kamala Harris’ AKA ties).
Example: At Howard University, DST’s 2024 probate honored its 1913 founding with a step routine and voter registration drive.
Related article for you:
How to Know When Probate Has Been Granted? 2025 Guide
What Happens at a Sorority Probate?
While each sorority adds unique flair, most probates follow this structure:
- Greetings & Shout-Outs:
- Neophytes (often masked) greet other Greek organizations with respect.
- Groups reply with signature calls (whistles, chants).
- History Presentation:
- Neophytes recite the sorority’s founding, mission, and milestones.
- Example: “Alpha Kappa Alpha was founded in 1908 at Howard University…”
- Strolling/Stepping:
- Synchronized dance routines symbolizing unity and pride.
- Combines African rhythms, military precision, and modern hip-hop.
- The Reveal:
- Neophytes remove masks, share sorority names (e.g., “Line Name: Phoenix”), and personal stories.
- Celebration:
- Sisters embrace new members; crowds cheer with chants like “SKEE-WEE!” (AKA’s call).
- Post-event photos and afterparties.
The Probate Process: From Interest to Initiation
- Interest Meeting: Potential candidates learn about the sorority’s mission.
- Discrete Screening: Members vet GPAs, service hours, and values.
- Neophyte Training: Weeks of lessons on history, rituals, and sisterhood.
- Probate Prep: Rehearsing steps, chants, and speeches.
Note: Reputable sororities ban hazing—focusing on mentorship, not humiliation.
Sorority Probate vs. Fraternity Probate
| Sorority Probates | Fraternity Probates |
| Emphasize group unity | Often highlight individual feats |
| Include community service vows | Focus on brotherhood challenges |
| Feature alumnae involvement | Alumni may judge competitions |
Variations and Modern Practices
- NPHC vs. NPC: National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) sororities (predominantly white) rarely hold probates.
- Social Media Impact: TikTok videos of probates go viral, sparking debates about privacy vs. visibility.
- Inclusivity Shifts: Some chapters invite non-members to demystify traditions.
Example: Spelman College’s 2024 AKA probate included a livestream for remote viewers.
Famous Sorority Probate Traditions
| Sorority | Signature Element | Example |
| Alpha Kappa Alpha | “20 Pearls” step tribute | UT Austin’s 2023 probate honored founders with pearl-themed choreography. |
| Delta Sigma Theta | Red/white “Power Lines” | Howard’s 2024 event celebrated 111 years with civil rights-themed strolling. |
| Zeta Phi Beta | Blue/white “Finer Womanhood” | FAMU’s 2023 probate raised $10k for scholarships. |
How to Attend a Sorority Probate
- Watch for Flyers: Campuses post probate dates on bulletin boards or Instagram.
- Respect Rules: No recording without permission.
- Support Charity: Many collect donations (e.g., hygiene kits for shelters).
FAQs
Can anyone join a sorority after attending a probate?
No—probates celebrate new members who’ve already completed intake. Attendees must apply separately.
Why the secrecy pre-probate?
Honors tradition and builds anticipation.
Are non-Black students welcome?
Yes! Most are public, but respect the cultural context.
Why Probates Matter
Sorority probates blend artistry, history, and sisterhood—they’re a celebration of Black excellence and communal pride. For neophytes, it’s a life-changing rite of passage. For viewers, it’s a window into legacies that have shaped campuses for over a century.
Interested? Follow NPHC chapters on social media or attend a Divine Nine event near you.
Final Tip: Never ask someone if they’re in a sorority—wait for them to share their affiliation first!