Gamma Psi of Sigma Chi Sweethearts

Glenda Septrion Darin '73

Attending Michigan State University and becoming a member of Greek life changed the course of my life’s journey. 
On a fall evening, as a Chi Omega pledge, I was sent to pick up rushees on a part of campus of which I was unfamiliar. Being unsure where I was, I saw a young man sitting outside on a bench and approached him to ask directions to Mason Hall.
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As it turned out, he was waiting outside of Mason for the cafeteria to open so that he could guarantee a quiet spot in which to study. (Mason Hall is just across Grand River from the Sigma Chi house. He later admitted he never went there again). We chatted for a moment and exchanged names. His name was John Darin, he was a Sigma Chi. 
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John and Glenda (Septrion) Darin
Later that week he called the Chi Omega house to find me. John says he remembered my name because of the association with the “good witch” from the Wizard of Oz. The rest is history! That was October 11, 1971 and we have been together ever since. ​
Together we enjoyed so many Greek activities as well as football games, intramural sports, serving on our individual boards, and making new friends in each other’s house. Becoming a “little sister” of Sigma Chi was very special. The best part for me was helping out at rush and talking with all the brothers and potential new members. Being selected Sweetheart of Sigma Chi at the Ball in Harbor Springs was an unforgettable experience.

We like to think our relationship is what eventually made Sigma Chi and Chi Omega brother-sister houses. When we married in 1973, both of entire houses were invited to the party.
Greek life continued to shape our paths even after we graduated. The inspiration we received from the friends we made while at MSU strengthened our individual career paths. I went on to teach special needs students and John went into his family business, eventually helping to take English Gardens from a one store location to its current six stores in metropolitan Detroit. He continues to serve as CEO, successfully guiding the business through the recent pandemic. After taking what John fondly calls my “23 year sabbatical” to raise our 3 daughters, I returned to teaching, earned my Masters in Special Education, and continued working for the next 20 years.  
Our love for MSU, Sigma Chi, and Chi Omega certainly had an influence on our daughters. They all have fond memories of football weekends on campus and at the Sigma Chi house where they became friends of the brothers’ children. They eventually all attended our beloved Alma Mater and joined the Greek system as well. 

John and I are so happy our paths crossed that evening in October. We continue to be proud Spartans and look forward to Sigma Chi’s return to campus. Go Green! 

Glenda Septrion Darin, ’73
Chi Omega - Xi Gamma Chapter