Phi Mu fraternity, a women’s organization centered on character building, leadership development, community service and sisterhood that was founded in 1852, will colonize a new chapter at Cornell in fall 2014.

“Phi Mu’s core principles and mission align well with those of the Cornell fraternity and sorority community, while the personality and character of the organization offer a complementary experience to our students,” said Travis Apgar, associate dean of students.

Over the past several years, the Cornell Panhellenic Association has seen increased interest in membership. In 2010, 670 women registered for formal recruitment. This year, 873 women registered. To address the growing interest, a committee comprising members from the 12 current chapters was established last year to review recruitment statistics, campus trends and assess the current state of the Panhellenic community. Following the review, the Cornell Panhellenic Association voted to expand.

“Phi Mu was selected because of their passion for growth, sisterhood and philanthropy. As Phi Mu grows on campus, more women will have the opportunity to join Greek life and find lifelong sisters and friends,” said Erika Whitestone ’15, president of the Cornell University Panhellenic Council.

Phi Mu will begin recruiting new members this fall and is expected to participate in formal recruitment in January 2015.

Katherine Cianciotto is an assistant dean of student services.