Smurthwaite: a place where 46 unique women can come together and create a community that develops each resident into both a stronger leader and woman. Every day is an adventure with memories to be made through Big/Little events, midnight food runs, and unexpected dance parties. There is never a dull moment when you’re always surrounded by sisters.
Our house was founded on four pillars: leadership, scholarship, friendship, and service. The women are encouraged to become leaders on campus from the moment they move in. We are involved in campus clubs, in both leadership and active member roles, college ambassadors, members of music ensembles, and so much more. We also work hard in the classroom and strive for excellence in their respected academic fields. Smurthwaite requires a GPA of 2.8 for both prospective students both in high school and college. We have a study room that maintains quiet hours 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in order to provide a perfect learning environment. Smurthwaite provides an atmosphere that not only fosters the growth of knowledge but relationships as well.
Each fall, new members are paired with an old member as a part of our Big/Little program. A “Big” acts as a new member’s mentor and helps her adjust to college, Smurthwaite, and any life changes she finds along the way. There are special activities planned each month to provide bonding times but Big/Little pairings are encouraged to spend time together outside of those events either getting coffee, watching a movie, or doing each other’s nails. It’s a special relationship that lasts a lot longer than just the college years.
Our final pillar, service, is one that is highly encouraged in our house. Each woman is required to complete community service hours throughout the school year which participating in various activities. Every fall the women select an organization as our house philanthropy. We then spend the year volunteering or raising funds for them in some form or another. Last year, we packaged 80+ shoe boxes for Operation Christmas Child and this year, we picked the Riley County Human Society for the house philanthropy. Serving fills us with unspeakable joy but it’s even better serving alongside 40 beautiful sisters.
If you, or know of someone that would like to be a part of Smurthwaite, please contact our recruitment chairs, Kaitlyn Heier (keheier@ksu.edu) or Rachel Robertson (roberrac000@ksu.edu) and they would be more than happy to provide you with the necessary information. Also, feel free to call us at (785) 395-2900!
With Smurthie love,
Sophia Pitney
Vice-President
