Delta Phi Epsilon Hosts Gala to Support Cystic Fibrosis Research

Pace Universities Delta Phi Epsilon sorority hosted their annual 65 Roses ceremony Tuesday to raise awareness for cystic fibrosis.

The event featured many different elements including dinner, raffles, presentations and even a ceremony for the sorority's seniors.

More than 50 people attended the grand gala in support of Delta Phi Epsilon’s cause. Sorority sisters, fraternity brothers, and loved ones all gathered to raise money for cystic fibrosis.

Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity freshman Daniel Zelevansky described the event as a “fun way to raise money while also bringing the community together”. He looks forward to supporting other Greek life events and charities.

While all the underclassmen in Delta Phi Epsilon dressed in black, seniors wore red to show their accomplishments. Daniel Zelevansky states that she loves “raising money for such a good cause in such a fun way”.

The event featured a buffet-style dinner provided by Chartwells, and several raffle baskets from sorority sisters. The walls were lined with rose themed decorations and balloons while the tables were lined with red and topped with gold candles.

As guests entered the candlelit room, they were greeted by formally dressed sorority sisters who showed them to a table and gave them an opportunity to participate in the events raffles. Many attendees dressed formally, creating an elegant atmosphere and a professional environment.

According to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, cystic fibrosis is a “genetic disease that affects the lungs, pancreas, and other organs”. The condition affects children more often than not, with most patients being diagnosed by the age of two. People with cystic fibrosis experience mucus clogs in their airways that lead to infections, inflammation and respiratory failure.

More than 30,000 people in the United States live with the disease, according to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Treatments have improved over the years, allowing many patients to live into adulthood. However, challenges remain, especially for those without access to consistent care or new medications.

Unfortunately, there is no known cure for cystic fibrosis. However, groups like Delta Phi Epsilon work tirelessly to raise money for cystic fibrosis research.

The sorority, often referred to as DPhiE, has supported individuals affected by cystic fibrosis since 1990 when the Pace chapter was founded. The sorority also proudly supports causes like ANAD, multiple sclerosis, and educational funds.

In past years, the gala has helped raise hundreds of dollars for cystic fibrosis research. The sorority also works year-round to spread awareness through campus tabling events, such as bake sales and giveaways. Social media also plays a part in spreading awareness for cystic fibrosis. The sorority utilizes social networking to raise funds for cystic fibrosis.

On a national scale, 65 roses has been a tradition for many Delta Phi Epsilon chapters. Since adopting the philanthropy in 1967, the sorority has raised over one million dollars across the country. With more than 67,000 active DPhiE sisters, each respective chapter comes together for a singular cause, cystic fibrosis.

Along with 65 roses, Delta Phi Epsilon hosts another cystic fibrosis fundraiser in the fall. This event, called Deepher Dude, is a male fashion show that encourages donations and educates students about the condition.

The name, 65 roses, comes from a long-standing nickname for cystic fibrosis. Children who struggle to pronounce the name of the condition refer to it as 65 roses instead. Over time 65 roses became the symbol of hope for cystic fibrosis patients.

DPhiE has been hosting their 65 Roses gala annually to raise awareness for this important cause. Through raffle tickets and donations, the sorority raised a grand total of $118 for cystic fibrosis.

Delta Phi Epsilon is committed to community service and looks forward to continuing its philanthropic efforts in support of cystic fibrosis.