IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser.

Sorority rallies to break stereotypes with inspirational photo series

The Delta Gamma sorority at Ohio University is sick of people passing judgment before getting to know them.
/ Source: TODAY

The Delta Gamma sorority at Ohio University is sick of people passing judgment before getting to know them.

In hopes of making a difference on campus, they decided to create a campaign called "Defying Stereotypes."

In early November, Junior Kaitlin Hatton, a photography major, went to the chapter's head of public relations, Elizabeth Harris, with the idea to create a photo series.

"We wanted to present our sorority in a different light than the stereotypical ones you see in movies and TV shows," Harris, 21, told TODAY.com.

defying stereotypes
Marisa SheppardCourtesy of Kaitlin Hatton

RELATED: Meet the inspiring student with Down syndrome who's changing sorority life

On Nov. 17, 24 members of the sorority gathered in their house to pose while Hatton snapped away.

defying stereotypes
Corttany BrooksCourtesy of Kaitlin Hatton

"Our chapter has so many unique individuals, who come from all different backgrounds, so this was a nice way to show that off," Harris said.

defying stereotypes
Kenzie Seaton-ToddCourtesy of Kaitlin Hatton
defying stereotypes
Paige LudwinCourtesy of Kaitlin Hatton

RELATED: Over-the-top sorority video 'bad for feminism'

"Some girls are into makeup and fashion, while others play sports and aren't afraid to get dirty," Harris said.

"But everyone gets along really well and that's part of the point we're trying to get across — accepting differences."

defying stereotypes
Gretchen CraigCourtesy of Kaitlin Hatton
defying stereotypes
Courtney RechinCourtesy of Kaitlin Hatton

"I've always been a true believer that the friendships you make in your sorority are friendships for life," Harris said. "I couldn't imagine life without them."

defying stereotypes
Elizabeth Harris, Director of PR for Delta GammaCourtesy of Kaitlin Hatton

After the photos were posted on the Ohio University Delta Gamma Facebook page on Tuesday, students both in and out of Greek life were approaching the sorority sisters to congratulate them.

defying stereotypes
Kaitlin HattonCourtesy of Kaitlin Hatton

"I didn't want to rush as a freshman specifically because of those stereotypes," Hatton, 20, told TODAY.com. "I finally decided to go through with it sophomore year and got a glimpse about just how wrong I was."

defying stereotypes
Gabriella Francesca AlbaneseCourtesy of Kaitlin Hatton

The sisters also donate their time to volunteer at assisted living facilities and animal shelters and started the Service for Sight foundation, which helps bring the gift of sight to those in need.

defying stereotypes
Mallory FergusonCourtesy of Kaitlin Hatton

"I just wanted to inspire hope, change and acceptance for everyone — even those not in Greek life," Hatton said.

"Several people have told me our photos have changed their minds about sorority girls and others said how grateful they were that someone is breaking stereotypes."