A Decade of Growth: Celebrating the 10th Anniversary of Chenoa Social Tribe
The youngest women's social organization at Mississippi College reflects on a decade.
Chenoa Social Tribe celebrated its 10th anniversary on March 30. Founded in 2015, Chenoa Social Tribe is the youngest women’s social organization at Mississippi College.
Guided by the motto “to thrive joyfully as one community,” Chenoa members cultivate a close-knit and supportive environment. With its small size, the tribe offers a special opportunity to form long-lasting friendships with every member.
“I like to think of Chenoa as going into your grandmother’s home,” Kate Secoy, the public relations chair of Chenoa, said. “It’s very warm, very welcoming; it’s very familiar to you. It did not take me long at all to get acquainted with everyone.”
There is a strong network within Chenoa that has affected each of the members’ lives immensely. Secoy believes the consistently supportive community has played a pivotal role in building her self-confidence. “I wouldn’t be as confident as I am about myself if I didn’t have them,” Secoy said.
During the rush process, potential new members are required to memorize lists of the names of tribe alumni. As a new tribe, members have the unique opportunity to interact with the founding pioneers of Chenoa, gaining insight into the organization’s origins and traditions. “You actually got to meet them and experience what it was like for them firsthand when they were creating it,” Secoy said.
Chenoa’s status as a newer organization has influenced its culture in other ways as well. When competing in inter-organizational competitions such as Swerve and Follies, Chenoa members must work hard to gain recognition.
Even with its small size, though, Chenoa has experienced an exceptional amount of growth. This past year, the tribe has doubled in size with the new process class. This has resulted in significant structural changes concerning meetings and events. “With the new girls coming in, it’s kind of brought a whole new culture to Chenoa and we’ve had to learn how to adapt to that,” Secoy said. Secoy and other Chenoa officers look forward to an even bigger process class next year.
Within the next decade, Chenoa members hope to never stray from living according to their motto. “I’d like for new girls that come into MC to be drawn to Chenoa,” Secoy said. “Not for the look or the aesthetic of Chenoa, but because of the people in it.” For many girls, Chenoa has been a source of light in their lives, and Secoy hopes its tribe members will remain committed in their resolve to joyfully support one another. The Chenoa community is also appreciative of its beaux. “They are truly some of the best people I’ve ever met,” Secoy gushed. “They make Chenoa even better.”
During their weekly meeting, Chenoa members will take part in a small commemorative celebration, complete with hats, music, and cake. On the official date, a special event was held to honor a decade of growth and community. “Since Chenoa turned 10, we wanted to throw an epic kids birthday party,” Secoy said. The event was held on March 30 at Defy Trampoline Park.
“This gave us a chance to fully celebrate our decade milestone all together doing something we love,” Secoy said.
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