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Phi Mu

Phi Mu Fraternity is an American women's collegiate social organization founded on March 4, 1852, at Wesleyan College in Macon, Georgia—the first college chartered to grant degrees to women—by Mary Ann DuPont, Mary Elizabeth Myrick, and Martha Bibb Hardaway as the Philomathean Society, a literary and social group that evolved into a national fraternity chartered by the state of Georgia in 1904. As the second-oldest secret society for women in the United States, it joined the National Panhellenic Conference in 1911 and has since expanded to foster bonds of friendship among its members through shared values of loyalty, sincerity, and personal development. With nearly 200,000 women initiated since its founding, Phi Mu maintains over 125 active collegiate chapters and a network of more than 175 alumnae chapters, supporting philanthropy efforts primarily directed toward Children's Miracle Network Hospitals, to which it has contributed since 1986. The organization's symbols include rose and white as colors, the lion as mascot, and a badge featuring a barbed quatrefoil shield, reflecting its heritage of resilience and unity.

History

Founding and Early Development

Phi Mu was founded on January 4, 1852, at in , when three junior students—Mary Ann DuPont, Mary Elizabeth Myrick, and Martha B. Hardaway—convened to organize the Philomathean Society as a secret literary association dedicated to intellectual discourse and debate. The society's public introduction occurred on March 4, 1852, a date now observed as . , chartered in 1836 as the first institution in the world to grant degrees to women, provided the context for this early experiment in female camaraderie amid limited opportunities for women's . In its initial decades, the Philomathean Society endured as a single-chapter entity, fostering scholarship and social bonds among members despite the disruptions of the American Civil War (1861–1865), during which Wesleyan College suspended operations and many participants faced regional upheaval in Georgia. The group maintained continuity through alumnae loyalty, evolving from a campus-specific literary club into a more structured fraternity with rituals and governance, though it remained confined to Wesleyan until the early 20th century. By the 1890s, growing membership and external interest prompted discussions on nationalization, reflecting broader trends in American collegiate Greek life where women's societies sought formal recognition. On August 1, 1904, the organization received a charter from the State of Georgia as , adopting its Greek-letter name and securing authority to install chapters at other institutions, marking the shift from local society to national sorority. This incorporation, supported by over a thousand alumnae, formalized its constitution and expansion potential, though initial growth was deliberate and limited to select Southern campuses in the ensuing years.

Expansion Through the 20th Century

Following its incorporation as a by the State of Georgia on August 1, 1904, Phi Mu initiated expansion beyond , establishing additional chapters at institutions such as Hollins College in that same year. This development transformed the organization from a single-campus into a entity with the authority to groups elsewhere. Membership in the , achieved in 1911, provided a framework for standardized practices and inter-sorority collaboration, supporting steady growth amid the era's increasing prevalence of women's . Chapters proliferated primarily in southern and border states during the early decades, with installations including one at in 1920. A pivotal expansion milestone came in 1939 through the merger with Alpha Delta Theta, a smaller national sorority founded in 1919. This union added five new collegiate chapters to Phi Mu's roster and integrated eight more via on-campus mergers with existing groups, while establishing four corresponding alumnae chapters. The merger diversified Phi Mu's footprint, incorporating chapters from Alpha Delta Theta's network at institutions like and . Subsequent decades saw continued installations, often at in the and Midwest, though some early chapters faced closures due to institutional changes or wartime disruptions. By mid-century, Phi Mu maintained dozens of active collegiate chapters, reflecting resilience and adaptation to evolving campus dynamics.

Growth and Modern Era

Following , Phi Mu sustained its expansion amid the broader surge in U.S. enrollment driven by the and demographic shifts, installing new chapters at growing universities nationwide. This period marked steady growth in the organization's footprint, building on pre-war foundations to establish a presence at additional institutions through the mid-. By the late , cumulative chapter chartering exceeded 228, reflecting sustained organizational development. Into the , Phi Mu has maintained 137 active collegiate chapters and 145 alumnae chapters, with over 230,000 initiated members supporting its operations and traditions. In 1996, the pioneered support for panhellenic initiatives by becoming the first NPC member to endow a fund in the newly formed Foundation, aimed at advancing and programs. Recent efforts include digitizing archival materials through a with HistoryIT, enabling to historical records and enhancing preservation for future generations.

Symbols and Traditions

Insignia and Colors

Phi Mu's official colors are rose and white, originating from the colors of the Philomathean Society, the literary society at Wesleyan College from which Phi Mu emerged in 1852. These colors symbolize womanhood for rose and truth and purity for white, as reflected in Phi Mu's traditions and branding materials. The primary insignia of Phi Mu is its badge, a gold barbed quatrefoil shield overlaid with a black shield that features two bonds representing sisterhood, three stars denoting light and truth, a hand clasping a heart signifying charity, and the Greek letters ΦΜ. This design, unique to initiated members, is worn only by those who have undergone the fraternity's rituals and is protected under Phi Mu's policies against unauthorized reproduction. The , designed in 1904 by two Alpha Chapter members at , consists of a red shield supported by two lions—the fraternity's —bearing the Phi Mu badge at its center and the open motto Les Amis Prospères ("Prosperous Friends" in ) inscribed below. This emblem encapsulates Phi Mu's foundational values of friendship and prosperity, as established in its early conventions. Additional symbols include the , derived from the badge's shape and representing fidelity and , and a black-and-gold Phi pin for new members prior to . These elements are standardized in Phi Mu's branding guidelines, which specify 212 C for the rose hue to maintain visual consistency across chapters and materials.

Creed and Rituals

The Phi Mu , formally adopted in , functions as a foundational ethical guide for members, recited during chapter meetings, initiations, and personal reflection to reinforce core values of , , , and . It emphasizes practical application of principles such as extending aid to the needy, recognizing divine guidance, upholding love, honor, and truth in daily conduct, maintaining womanly demeanor with kindness toward others, affirming belief in a higher , and committing to enhance the world through individual actions. While the full text is not exhaustively published on the fraternity's official website to preserve its ceremonial significance, it is widely known among members and alumni as a unifying pledge that aligns with Phi Mu's founding ideals of noble womanhood. Phi Mu's rituals constitute the private ceremonial practices central to the fraternity's identity, designed to impart its values through structured, symbolic experiences shared exclusively among initiated members. These include initiation ceremonies, where new members affirm the and take an , fostering bonds of and commitment to the organization's principles. Rituals are conducted in designated spaces, adhering to strict protocols to ensure reverence and confidentiality, with no public disclosure of details to maintain their sanctity and prevent dilution. Periodic assessments, such as those initiated in recent years, solicit member input on elements to adapt them while preserving foundational traditions, underscoring their role in sustaining organizational cohesion across chapters.

Organizational Structure

National Governance

The National Council serves as the governing body of Phi Mu Fraternity, functioning as its and setting strategic direction for the organization. Composed of volunteer alumnae members, the Council includes a National President, six National Vice Presidents, and the (NPC) Delegate. These officers oversee policy implementation, resource allocation, and alignment with the fraternity's core values of love, honor, and truth, while professional staff at the National Headquarters in , handle operational execution. Phi Mu employs the Carver model, in which the National Council defines "Ends Policies" that articulate the fraternity's primary outcomes—such as fostering supportive , member development through the and rituals, community enhancement via , and lifelong alumnae —without prescribing specific operational methods. This framework guides a 2025–2030 Strategic Plan emphasizing multigenerational communication, organizational structure optimization, membership retention, and high-return investments in programs. The Council's authority derives from the fraternity's and Bylaws, which outline officer duties and require adherence to NPC standards for interfraternal cooperation. National Council members are elected or appointed for biennial terms, with nominations open to any alumna in via self-nomination or a Nominating process; elections occur at the biennial by delegates from collegiate chapters, alumnae associations, and clubs. The 58th in , in 2024 selected the current 2024–2026 officers: National President Lynn Storlien-McGraw (Zeta Sigma Chapter, ); Vice Presidents Dr. Jessica Brady (Kappa Iota, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill), Ellen Fryman-Bower (Delta Beta, ), Shannon Gibbs (Rho, ), Sarah Marks (Alpha Epsilon, ), Kendra Pickens (Kappa Nu, ), and Jen Wu (Kappa Omicron, ). Eligibility mandates prior chapter or volunteer experience, and officers must maintain per the Bylaws.

Chapter Operations and Membership

Collegiate chapters of Phi Mu operate under the oversight of the national fraternity's , Bylaws, and Standing Rules and Procedures, with each chapter maintaining its own bylaws consistent with national policies. These bylaws govern internal operations, including the election of officers, financial management, housing requirements where applicable, and disciplinary processes handled by a chapter Discipline Committee. Chapters receive support from National Headquarters staff in areas such as member services, finances, operations, and , utilizing tools like Billhighway for dues collection and payment processing. policies prohibit , illegal drug use, and restrict alcohol consumption, with chapters required to host alcohol-free events and adhere to interfraternal cooperation standards through the (NPC). Each collegiate chapter is led by an Executive Committee comprising elected officers, including a , , Provisional Member , Membership , one or more Secretaries, , Panhellenic Delegate, and Honor Chairwoman; the appoints additional chairwomen subject to Executive Committee confirmation. Officers are elected in accordance with national guidelines and chapter bylaws, often requiring a minimum grade point average such as 2.8 to hold office. Chapter activities focus on sisterhood-building, such as retreats and meetings, alongside compliance with campus Panhellenic rules for events and reporting. Alumnae chapters mirror this structure, promoting ongoing engagement through similar operational frameworks adapted for post-collegiate members. Membership eligibility for collegiate chapters requires candidates to be full-time undergraduates at an hosting a Phi Mu , possessing high moral and intellectual qualities, and meeting university scholastic standards without being on . follows NPC guidelines, campus Panhellenic rules, and Phi Mu policies, including primary formal recruitment and continuous open periods, with recommendation forms accepted via the myPhiMu from May 1 to July 31 for fall and November 1 to January 1 for spring. Minimum GPA thresholds vary by campus, such as 3.0 for incoming freshmen at some universities. occurs after election and fulfillment of provisional requirements, with alumnae available for women post-graduation who align with Phi Mu's values. Chapters maintain membership rosters through systems, ensuring via academic and conduct compliance.

Philanthropy and Community Impact

Partnership with Children's Miracle Network

Phi Mu established its national philanthropic partnership with Children's Miracle Network Hospitals in 1986, making it the only sorority with such an alliance. This collaboration supports 170 member hospitals across the , with funds directed to local children's hospitals through chapter-specific events and initiatives. Since the partnership's inception, Phi Mu members—both collegiate and alumnae—have raised over $26.5 million for , including a record $2.4 million in 2024 alone. Annual fundraising typically exceeds $2 million, funding critical treatments, equipment, and research for pediatric patients. In 2019, Phi Mu earned recognition as a Miracle Million Sponsor from Children's Miracle Network Hospitals for cumulative contributions surpassing $10 million at that time. In July 2024, Phi Mu committed to a lifetime pledge of $30 million, aiming to achieve this within five years through intensified chapter , such as competitions and awareness campaigns. This goal builds on prior milestones, including over $20 million raised by early 2025, emphasizing direct impact on local communities where chapters operate. The organization's creed, which includes the principle "to lend to those less fortunate a helping hand," underpins these efforts.

Fundraising Achievements and Other Causes

Phi Mu's fundraising efforts for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals have yielded substantial results since the partnership began in 1986. As of , the organization had raised over $26.5 million in total donations, including a record-breaking $2.4 million in that year alone. Annually, chapters and alumnae contribute over $2 million, supporting treatments and care at 170 affiliated hospitals nationwide. In July 2024, Phi Mu committed to a $30 million lifetime pledge over the subsequent five years, building on the $20 million milestone achieved earlier that year. The fraternity received Million recognition from CMN Hospitals in 2019 for surpassing $1 million in annual giving. Individual chapters have driven notable local achievements, such as the chapter raising $33,280 for UF Health Shands during the 2023 academic year. Similarly, the Sacramento State Eta Rho chapter donated nearly $35,000 to UC Davis since its founding in 2016. These efforts often involve events like weeks, dance marathons, and themed fundraisers tailored to campus communities. Beyond CMN Hospitals, Phi Mu supports varied local and international causes through chapter initiatives and community service. Many chapters partner with organizations such as and Show Mercy International for service projects and donations. Others focus on regional hospitals, including via events like Bonnamu and Cheesin' for the Children. The Phi Mu Foundation supplements these by awarding academic scholarships and leadership grants, distributing $185,000 in scholarships and $555,184 in grants during the 2024-25 . Members are encouraged to participate in hands-on , emphasizing aid to women and children consistent with the fraternity's historical philanthropic roots.

Chapters and Expansion

Active and Emerging Chapters

Phi Mu operates collegiate chapters at universities across the , with a focus on maintaining strong, compliant operations aligned with fraternity policies and campus standards. As of 2019, the fraternity reported 137 active collegiate chapters. Recent expansions have added to this network, including the installation of the Theta Iota Chapter at in , on April 12, 2025, marking a new presence in the state system. Active chapters vary in size and focus but emphasize , academics, and , often participating in campus Panhellenic activities. For instance, the Beta Alpha Chapter at the Georgia Institute of Technology in has been operational since its chartering, contributing to local traditions and service. Chapters are supported by national staff through consultations on , operations, and compliance, with chapter consultants visiting campuses annually to ensure standards are met. Emerging chapters develop through an extension process coordinated with the (NPC), which identifies campuses for potential growth and invites Phi Mu to . Colonies undergo a probationary period of recruitment, education, and adherence to fraternity rituals before receiving a as a full . The Theta Iota Chapter originated from such an invitation to , transitioning from colony status to active chapter in spring 2025. No additional colonies were publicly announced as active in development as of October 2025, though the fraternity continues evaluating opportunities for sustainable expansion.

Historical Chapters and Closures

Phi Mu has chartered over 140 collegiate chapters since its founding in 1852, with some early expansions merging or dissolving due to institutional shifts at women's colleges, though comprehensive records of pre-20th century closures are sparse. In modern history, closures have typically resulted from low membership totals failing to sustain operations, non-compliance with national standards, or breaches of university and legal policies, reflecting broader challenges in life amid evolving regulations and enrollment fluctuations. The maintains no official public of all inactive chapters, prioritizing active expansion, but documented cases illustrate patterns of voluntary cessation or enforced suspension. Notable recent closures include the Lambda Beta Chapter at , which ceased operations on May 13, 2020, citing a sustained decline in membership that undermined chapter viability. Similarly, the chapter at closed at the end of the 2017-2018 amid mixed reports of internal challenges and recruitment shortfalls. The Gamma Alpha Chapter at the suspended operations effective May 13, 2013, following national directives, though specific triggers were not publicly detailed beyond operational review. Policy violations have prompted other terminations, such as at Virginia Commonwealth University, where the chapter ceased operations in March 2024 after an investigation revealed members using organizational platforms to buy and sell prescription drugs, violating fraternity, university, and federal laws; operations remain suspended until May 2028. At Bowling Green State University, the chapter ended in July 2013 when national headquarters suspended activities for unspecified conduct issues, revoking its campus recognition. The Kappa Omicron Chapter at Georgia Southern University's Armstrong campus disbanded in 2023 after more than 50 years, attributed to organizational and membership sustainability concerns. The Delta Lambda Chapter at the is scheduled to close effective December 12, 2024, marking the end of a 70-year presence, with university statements expressing regret over the outcome without specifying causes beyond standard review processes. Earlier instances, like the chapter's closure in 2011, highlight facility repurposing post-dissolution, as its house was converted to an alumni center. These events underscore Phi Mu's emphasis on accountability, with national leadership intervening to protect the organization's integrity when local chapters falter.

Controversies and Criticisms

Hazing and Member Misconduct

In April 2024, the Phi Mu chapter at was suspended by the university until May 2028 after an investigation revealed that members had used the organization's group communication forum to buy or sell prescription drugs, constituting unauthorized commercial activity and potential violations of and policies. The national organization also suspended chapter operations effective March 11, 2024, in response to the findings. At , former chapter treasurer Bryana Bunte was charged in March 2024 with two felony counts of and one count of corrupt for embezzling over $200,000 from Phi Mu between 2019 and 2023; she allegedly used the funds for personal expenses including purchasing a and drugs for her boyfriend, vacations, and daily living costs. Bunte was sentenced in December 2024 to pay full restitution to the chapter. In March 2020, the chapter at , was placed on interim by the university amid allegations tied to incidents reported in January 2020, occurring off-campus during events involving organizations; the restricted all chapter recognition and privileges pending . The chapter at faced sanctions in February 2015 for or other physical or mental abuse, requiring members to complete programming. In April 2018, it received additional penalties including social probation for prohibited use and retaliation against reporting parties. No documented cases of hazing-related deaths or lawsuits directly involving Phi Mu sorority chapters were identified in , though the maintains a strict anti-hazing prohibiting any intentional acts causing mental or physical discomfort or harm. Various chapters have undergone disciplinary reviews for -related violations, such as an unregistered event with at in August 2020, resulting in a warning and partnership outcome. In response to incidents of and member misconduct, Phi Mu enforces a Policy that categorically prohibits in any form, including physical, mental, or emotional abuse, and aligns with the Fraternity Insurance Purchasing Group (FIPG) standards. The policy requires all s to adhere to , , and laws, mandates on , and provides mechanisms for reporting violations through officers, advisors, or the National Anti-Hazing Hotline (1-888-668-4293). Violations trigger investigations by the national organization, potentially resulting in sanctions such as membership reviews, , of operations, or revocation. Phi Mu's national headquarters has directly intervened in chapter misconduct by suspending or closing operations at non-compliant groups. At Roanoke College, the chapter's charter was revoked in 2014 following multiple risk management violations, including unspecified misconduct that breached fraternity bylaws. Similarly, the Kappa Omicron chapter at Georgia Southern University's Armstrong campus disbanded in November 2023 amid operational challenges tied to prior compliance issues, though membership decline was cited alongside risk concerns. At Virginia Commonwealth University, national suspension of chapter operations took effect on March 11, 2024, after members used organizational communication platforms to facilitate the buying and selling of prescription drugs, prompting a university-imposed suspension until May 2028. Universities hosting Phi Mu chapters have independently enacted policy responses, often in coordination with national headquarters. issued an interim suspension of its Phi Mu chapter on March 11, 2020, revoking campus recognition and privileges amid allegations of involving chapter members. At , the chapter faced social suspension in 2018 for prohibited alcohol use and retaliation against reporting members, requiring educational programming. These institutional actions typically involve conduct board reviews under anti-hazing statutes, such as Pennsylvania's Act 80 of at , where Phi Mu received a seven-week activity suspension and deferred suspension in 2020 for policy infractions, though specifics were not publicly detailed as . Legal proceedings involving Phi Mu chapters have primarily addressed claims rather than criminal prosecutions. In Hanouchian v. [case details], a Court of Appeal ruled in 2023 that individual sorority members do not owe a legal to others based solely on their voluntary agreement to university protocols, limiting liability in a suit stemming from chapter activities; Phi Mu national was not a named party. No major civil lawsuits or criminal convictions directly against Phi Mu's national organization for fatalities or severe injuries have been documented, contrasting with high-profile cases in other organizations. Internally, Phi Mu has applied membership policies to enforce ideological conformity, as in December 2023 when national leaders warned over a dozen alumnae of potential restrictions or revocation for publicly affirming distinctions in opposition to participation in women's sororities, framing such views as contrary to values of .

Notable Alumnae

Business and Entrepreneurship

Tammy McClain Cohen, initiated through the Alpha Lambda chapter at , founded in 1999 as its , growing it into one of the top 10 background check and identity screening companies globally, recognized for pioneering services in employment verification and compliance screening. Tena Clark, Alpha Omicron chapter at the , serves as founder, CEO, and Chief Creative Officer of DMI Music & Media Solutions, a global firm specializing in music production, branding, and artist development; her career includes Grammy Award-winning songwriting for artists like and entrepreneurial ventures bridging music with activism and media. Dima Elissa, Rho chapter at , established Vis-Med3D as CEO and founder, focusing on advanced 3D and visualization technologies to enhance surgical planning and patient outcomes in healthcare. Pamela Prince-Eason, initiated via the ETSU chapter, led the Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) as President and CEO from 2011 until her death in 2025, certifying over 17,000 women-owned businesses and advocating for supplier initiatives that generated billions in procurement opportunities for minority- and women-led enterprises.

Politics and Public Service

Betty Montgomery, initiated at the Delta Kappa chapter at , became Ohio's first female , serving from 1995 to 2003, and later the first woman to hold the position of Ohio from 2003 to 2007. She previously served as Wood County Prosecutor, marking her as the first woman in that role as well. Melinda Schwegmann, from the Alpha Eta chapter at , was elected as Louisiana's first female in 1991, defeating incumbent Paul Hardy after outspending him nearly two-to-one; she held the office from 1992 to 1996. Carol C. Laise, a member of the Gamma Delta chapter at , served as U.S. Ambassador to from 1966 to 1973 under Presidents and , and became the to serve as Director General of the U.S. Foreign Service in 1973. Elizabeth Weaver, affiliated with the Delta chapter at , was appointed to the in 1992 and elected in 1994, serving until 2010 and as from 1999 to 2001. Beverly B. Martin, from the Alpha Eta chapter at , was appointed as a U.S. District for the Northern District of in 1994 by President and elevated to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit in 2010. Evett L. Simmons, initiated at the Alpha Tau chapter at , served as President of the National Bar Association in 2000, becoming the first woman in that role for the nation's oldest predominantly Black bar association.

Entertainment and Arts

, initiated into the Alpha Omega Chapter at , is a distinguished stage and screen actress renowned for her versatile performances in theater and film. She received five Tony Award nominations for her roles, including in (1987) and (1997), and appeared in films such as (1991), (1993), and (2002). Mary Wickes, a member of the Zeta Epsilon Chapter at , was a prolific character actress spanning over five decades in . She gained recognition for her roles in (1933), (1954), and the series (1992–1993), often portraying sharp-tongued, comedic supporting characters in more than 50 films and numerous television appearances. Kimberly Schlapman, from the Epsilon Lambda Chapter at , is a Grammy Award-winning singer and founding member of the band , formed in 1998. The group has released multiple platinum albums, including Tornado (2012), and earned accolades such as the Vocal Group of the Year in 2013 and 2015. Sara Joanne Byrd Rogers, an Alpha Omega Chapter alumna from , was a professional concert pianist whose career included performances and recordings; she also supported her husband ' work on , contributing to educational media through music. Rachel Reilly Villegas, initiated at , transitioned from reality television stardom—winning Big Brother 13 (2011) and competing on (2013)—to acting roles on and hosting duties on entertainment shows like Hollywood Today. Susan Harling Robinson, from the Gamma Omicron Chapter at , served as the real-life inspiration for the character Shelby Eatenton in her brother Robert Harling's play (1987), which was adapted into a 1989 film starring and , highlighting themes of family and resilience in Southern literature and cinema.

Science, Education, and Other Fields

Mary Ellen Weber (), a and former , joined Phi Mu during her undergraduate studies and later earned a Ph.D. in ; she was selected for 's 14th class in 1992 and flew on two missions, STS-70 in July 1995 and in May 2000, logging over 400 hours in space conducting scientific experiments and payload deployments. Geraldine "Jerrie" Mock (, Psi Chapter), an aviator and author, became the first woman to fly solo around the world on March 4, 1964, completing the 23,103-mile journey in 29 days, 11 hours, and 2 minutes aboard a single-engine Cessna 180 named Amerika, demonstrating advancements in aeronautical engineering and long-distance flight capabilities for women. Kathy Pham (Georgia Institute of Technology, Theta Zeta Chapter), a and product leader, served as of for Phi Mu and has held roles in , , and at organizations including and Workday; she was invited as a guest to President Obama's 2015 Address for her contributions to ethics and open-source health data initiatives during the . Edith "Jackie" Ronne (George Washington University, Beta Alpha Chapter), an explorer and glaciologist, participated as the first woman in an Antarctic expedition from 1946 to 1948 with her husband Finn Ronne, contributing to mapping over 250,000 square miles of the continent's coastlines and interior via aerial photography and ground surveys, which informed early understandings of Antarctic geography and climate. In education, Vicki Phillips (chapter unspecified), holder of an Ed.D., advanced K-12 education policy as director of education at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation from 2005 to 2012, overseeing initiatives that influenced curriculum standards and teacher evaluation systems in multiple U.S. states, and later served as chief of college, career, and civic readiness at the U.S. Department of Education. Other fields include Frances C. Wilson (, Delta Nu Chapter), Ed.D., who as the first female of the U.S. from 2006 to 2009 oversaw medical operations for over 44,000 personnel worldwide, implementing health policy reforms amid deployments in and .

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