kappa, theta, pi phi at smu

the "rankings" at SMU haven't changed AT ALL in 50+ years:

Pi Phi / Theta / Kappa are "tops" at SMU for a number of reasons, but their staying power at the top has been the tremendous backing of very powerful alumnae in Highland Park/ Preston Hollow. Period. Those women are the gatekeepers into the chapter for Dallas PNMs and if you're not the most popular/ wealthiest/ from the "right" families, they aren't interested.

Tri Delta & ChiO have always been just a step below. Influential alumnae (and extremely aggressive alumnae in ChiO's case), but not as "society" as Pi Phi - Theta - Kappa.

DG has always been right in the middle. Decent sized alumnae presence in Dallas (but not aggressive recruiters). The house draws a lot of girls from states where DG is a powerhouse like California. I've always assumed those SMU DG's are moving back home after graduating. They have a loyal chapter alumnae group as they are able to build the new house- just not as much local as the top 5.

All other houses have always been below DG. Little to no alumnae presence or influence, much less alumnae money going into the chapter as evidence by not having new houses.