What is panhellenic?

"Panhellenic" typically refers to organizations or activities that encompass or relate to all Greek people or culture, particularly in the context of ancient Greece. The term is often used in two primary contexts:

1. Ancient Greece: In ancient Greek history, "Panhellenic" refers to events, sanctuaries, or institutions that were open to all Greeks, transcending city-state boundaries. The most well-known example is the Panhellenic Games, which included the Olympic Games, the Pythian Games, the Nemean Games, and the Isthmian Games. These were religious festivals that featured athletic and cultural competitions and were held in honor of various Greek gods. They played a significant role in promoting a sense of shared Greek culture and identity.

2. Modern Greek Life in North America: In the context of modern North American Greek life, the term "Panhellenic" is often associated with the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC). This is an umbrella organization for 26 women's sororities in the United States and Canada. The NPC serves as a governing body that provides guidance, advocacy, and support for its member sororities, promoting values like leadership, scholarship, and community service. Many college campuses have Panhellenic Councils, which are local collegiate versions of the NPC, coordinating activities and recruitment among the member sororities on that campus.

These uses of "Panhellenic" highlight its roots in Greek heritage, whether through the celebration of ancient traditions or the structure of contemporary sorority organizations.