In 1921 the Palmer Society formed to create a female literary group. Back then, the Society focused on the literary review, performing plays, and holding welcome teas for new members. As interests expanded to include more social activities, the group reorganized in 1923 and again in 1928, eventually becoming a social society with a focus on scholarship and service. Well into a new century and as strong as ever, some may wonder what life is like for Palmer Girls today.

Before the fall semester begins, society leader’s attend the Intersociety Council (ISC) Retreat, hosted by the Office of Student Affairs. Members move in early and hold sessions on leadership, yearly goal setting, and new member recruiting. Current Palmer president Marisol Haro ’11 notes, "It give us a chance to get focused and organized before classes begin. It is really nice to get to know the leaders from the other societies and have a chance to work together. I believe it opens a lot of doors for interactions." Marisol goes on, "By the time we have the Student Activities Fair in the first week, I feel like we are really ready to introduce the Palmer Society. I appreciate how the retreat has helped me to be a more effective leader." Those at the retreat volunteer during orientation, particularly with "Move-in Day," a great way to meet new students.

And where do the Palmers live? Many are commuters, living with their families but the members also have their own community in the Harris Residence Hall Complex. "We have an entire secured floor to ourselves, so the common space is ours to hang out in," says Maria Pizana ’12, "It’s fun to come home after classes and have my sisters around. Sometimes we cook dinner." Haro says, "It is a lot of fun. We decorate the area with our banners and event boards. We have Open House there and it gives potential members a chance to see where we live." Fall ’10 President, Tammy Miyata says, "I like it because it supplies a place for all Palmers to congregate and relax." Palmers have a reputation as good citizens for the community. Pizana goes on, "Every year we review with housing why we want the space and it’s good; it makes us think about what we want out of our experience. We talk about the responsibilities of living together and problem solving, and it renews our commitment to being good members of our campus community."

The Fall semester remains busy for Palmers, with Whittier Weekend (Homecoming), Open House and Rush. Palmers have an extended recruitment plan that they execute over the semester, with regular sisterhood breaks and outings for potential new sisters; they also host "Un-rush", a less formal but very fun off campus activity for recruits. The results show too, 2007-2011 recruiting is up 12% from 2002-2006 and up 34% compared to 25 years ago (1982-1986).

And what about pledging? New Member Education has moved to Spring this year (more info) and is now extended. Haro says, "It was different, juggling spring classes and pledging at the same time and trying to manage our time." Long time Faculty Advisor Dr. Mike McBride has stated that he is impressed with the program pledge mistress Elle Foran ’11 put together with the actives. Foran writes, "I felt really supported by our (alumnae) sponsors (Aimee Grove ’09 and Jenny Smith ’07) and by Andre (Coleman, Associate Dean of Students) throughout the process." Fall ’10 V.P. Donna Orozco ’12 adds, "Andre is always open to hear what societies have to say about events and fundraising (too). I know he has looked into fundraising activities for us and has helped set that up."

Service and scholarship are important too; each member commits to 5 h/semester of service as a part of her mission for Palmers and as a member of the ISC community. This includes, among many activities, taking part in Shelter’s Right Hand 5k Fitness Walk which supports victims of domestic abuse, and Helping Hands Day. Scholarship comes in at the Center for Academic Advising and Success (CAAS). Pizana calls it "Palmer Central" because so many sisters work and/or study there. CAAS offers many services such as mentoring, writing assistance, and tutoring as needed. Pizana elaborates, "Being able to work there as an academic coach or tutor really helps student retention, especially with our freshmen. It also helps develop our leadership skills."

One thing that continues is the social fun. Many of the same stags that were popular before, such as the "5P," are still held and the "Annual Spring Picnic" remains a must. The Little Brother program is still strong and every semester, the "Misses" plan Sisterhood Week and a retreat. With the help of funding from ASWC, ‘80s P.O.P. (Palmer – Orthogonian- Party), held for the entire Campus, is now in its 3rd year. They also continue to meet for Rock Lunch– a weekly highlight. This along with spontaneous moments that come from being together allow for many great memories. Memories are shared and passed on especially at the annual send off for graduates, Senior Farewell.