Sorority honors sister killed by gun violence

Arielle Dukofsky April 30th, 2017

COLLEGE PARK M.d. Ten years ago, Nicole Schiffman, a former member of Phi Sigma
Sigma, died a from gun violence while visiting a friend at another school.

On April 15, Schiffman was remembered by her sorority sisters, their families, and members of
the Greek community at Nic@Nite, an annual event unique to the Beta Alpha chapter at the
University of Maryland. From 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., 150 attendees filled the walls of the Phi
Sigma Sigma chapter house, located at 4531 College Avenue.

A portion of the proceeds from Nic@Nite benefit The Nicole Schiffman Foundation, an
organization founded by Schiffmans family, aimed at creating awareness for gun violence.

On the main floor, attendees were offered food and drink, and were able to purchase raffle tickets
for a number of prizes including themed gift baskets, accessories, and apparel. Prizes were
donated by small brands including Luxe and Hazel, Just Campus, KT Farello Designs,
LeStyle25, and Devons Designs.

In addition to raffles, attendees were able to shop from several

venders stationed throughout the basement of the chapter house.
Venders include Beauty Counter, Stella and Dot, Peach, Luxe and
Hazel, 49Trent, and Mello Brand.

With reason, Nic@Nite falls on Phi Sigma Sigmas parents

weekend each year.

I love the fact that my family is able to participate, said

freshman Rachel Slobodien. It gives them a chance to see how
important this sorority is to me, and what we stand for.

As the event came to a close, Philanthropy Chair Julie Clark

briefly addressed attendees.
Raffle prizes were spread throughout
We have this event each year to celebrate sisterhood and to
the living room of the chapter house.
Courtesy of Aimee Howard commemorate Nicole Schiffman, our sister, who lived inside
these very walls, said Clark. Although most of us did not
know Nicole personally, The Nicole Schiffman Foundation is a cause close to all of our hearts. It
could have been any one of us.

At sundown, electronic candles purchased by attendees lit up the steps of the chapter house.
These candles serve as tribute to Schiffman and her family.
- MORE -
 Its clear to see how much the sisters care about this
organization, said one parent. Im proud that my daughter is
able to be part of it.

Earnings from the sale of raffle tickets, candles, T-shirts, and

vender items exceeded $3,000. Through The Nicole Schiffman
Foundation, this money goes straight toward activities designed
to prevent the kind of violence that ended Schiffmans life.

Electronic candles lit up outside of the

chapter house as tribute to Schiffman (# # #)
and her family. Courtesy of Julie Clark