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Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Marietta, GA/Cobb County
Strategic Plan Developed in 2016
Implementation 2017-2019

1 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INCORPORATED®
Rho Zeta Omega
2017-2019 Strategic Plan
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction ..................................................................................................2
Strategic Planning Committee .....................................................................2
Mission Statements ......................................................................................3
Vision Statements ........................................................................................3
Values Statement/Guiding Principles ..........................................................4
Soliciting Chapter Input ..............................................................................5
SWOT Analysis and Findings .....................................................................6
Strategic Goals .............................................................................................7
Strategic Plan ...............................................................................................8
Implementation Plan ..................................................................................19
Conclusion .................................................................................................19
Appendices .................................................................................................20
A. Committee Action Plans ..........................................................21
B. Timeline ...................................................................................39
C. Survey Questions/Results ........................................................40
D. Focus Group Questions/Results ...............................................51

2 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this Strategic Plan (Plan) is to serve as Rho Zeta Omega’s primary planning
guide focused on short-term and long-term goals, objectives and action plans. While the
inclusive process utilized to develop the Plan was purposeful and structured, the Plan prioritizes
results rather than process. The goals defined within this Plan are specific, measurable,
achievable and timed. The Plan, completed in December 2016, represents the “voice” of what
the Chapter wishes to see for outcomes over the next two (2) years. Finally, the implementation
strategy that will guide the Chapter in measuring the progress of the Chapter against the Plan will
begin in January 2017.
RHO ZETA OMEGA STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE - 2016
Soror Sarah-elaine Jones - Basileus
Soror Monique Spaulding – Strategic Planning Committee Chairman
Soror Diana Ashurst
Soror Trish Atwater
Soror Turea Flowers
Soror Stacy Grooms
Soror Brenda Jordan
Soror Daphne Moore
Soror Gloria Nichols
Soror Carlicia Porter
Soror Tammy Prince
Soror Pat Simmons Suckey
Soror Caryn Young
Soror Jacqueline McMillan – External Consultant (Tau Pi Omega)
NOTE: The makeup of this Committee included: A Charter Member (1), Executive Board
Members (7), a Golden Soror (1), Silver Sorors (6), sorors under 40 years of age (4), a soror
initiated in Rho Zeta Omega (1), recent transfers from local Chapters (2), transitions from Pi Phi
(2), a recent transfer from undergrad (1), and an external consultant (1).

3 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
MISSION STATEMENTS
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INCORPORATED® MISSION
STATEMENT
“The purpose of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority is to cultivate and encourage high
scholastic and ethical standards, to promote unity and friendship among college
women, to study and help alleviate problems concerning girls and women in order to
improve their social stature, to maintain a progressive interest in college life, and to
be of service to all mankind.” (Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Constitution; Article II – Purpose)
RHO ZETA OMEGA MISSION STATEMENT
“By uniting individual efforts, Rho Zeta Omega Chapter through its Sisterhood
continues to build a strong cohesive organization that positively impacts the lives of
families and communities.”
VISION STATEMENTS
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INCORPORATED® VISION
STATEMENT
“Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated is the premier unique sisterhood of
distinguished professional women united to serve humankind.” (2010-2020 Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® International Strategic Plan)
RHO ZETA OMEGA VISION STATEMENT
“Rho Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. is a non-profit
organization recognized in Cobb County/Marietta as a premier provider of
community service programs and an organization, which encourages high
scholastic achievement. The impact of these programs is exhibited by the national
recognition received for exemplary programs in the areas of scholarship,
education, health and economics.”

4 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
VALUES STATEMENT
Input from Rho Zeta Omega found the following principles to be the “Top 5” for the Chapter
(ranked in priority order by Strategic Planning Committee from the Sorority’s 14 guiding
principles):
1. Sisterhood
Our behavior will cultivate an atmosphere in which
women are encouraged to achieve their highest goals,
hopes and dreams.
2. High Ethical Standards
Our members and officers will exemplify high ethical
standards.
3. Leadership
Our activities will advance the training and development
of leaders.
4. Education
Our initiatives will advocate lifelong learning for the
people we serve.
5. Economics
Our organization will endorse solid economic practices
and economic empowerment.
In summary, the Rho Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® prides
itself on being an established sisterhood of service and high ethical standards. Our continued
leadership in the areas of education and issues impacting the economics of our service area will
enhance our ability to improve the quality of life for the communities we serve.

5 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
SOLICITING CHAPTER INPUT
The Strategic Planning Committee collected Chapter input from surveys distributed via hard
copy at Chapter meetings (Appendix C) and electronically (via SurveyMonkey). In addition,
five focus groups were offered and four conducted to solicit additional input (Appendix D) from
(1) the Executive Committee; (2) Golden/Silver Sorors; (3) new members—3 years or fewer in
Chapter; (4) members with 10 years or longer in Chapter; (5) any other member interested in
participating in the focus group exercise.
The Strategic Planning Committee was careful to employ a variety of instruments and to offer a
number of opportunities for the membership to provide input into this inclusive planning process.
While the responses received from surveys and focus groups likely include duplications and
therefore the response rate reported is not statistically precise, (i.e., respondents completing the
survey as well as attending focus groups), the Committee was pleased with the input received
from the membership:
*Some respondents likely responded to survey AND
attended focus group
Instrument Responses
SurveyMonkey 72
3/19/16 - 40
9/17/16 - 11
9/29/16 – 21
Hard Copy Survey 24
Focus Groups Attendees 21
Hard Copies 6
Total Responses 123
Response Rate* 49%

6 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
SWOT ANALYSIS AND KEY FINDINGS
The participation of the membership and the candor of their input resulted in productive
discussions regarding the perceived strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats to the
Chapter. Highlights of this environmental scan are listed below with additional sampling of data
from the survey located in Appendix C.
Instrument Timeline Sampling of Key Findings
SWOT
(Questions
were
embedded
within survey
and focus
group
questions)
March 19, 2016
thorough
September 29,
2016
Strengths:
Membership – motivated, informed, open, warm,
friendly
Finances – financials are strong, good financial
acumen, stewardship
Programming – strong connection with community,
programs meet the needs of the community
Weaknesses:
Succession planning, leadership development
Transparency could be improved
Some inconsistency in program execution
Opportunities:
Leadership development/mentoring
Partnerships/sponsorships – to improve programming
effectiveness
Expand health initiatives – physical and mental
Threats:
Unproductive cliques
Meetings are too long
Overbooking/overlapping meetings/programming
Common themes emerged from the review of the combined instruments used for analysis and are
included in the Strategic Goals section of the Plan.

7 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
RHO ZETA OMEGA STRATEGIC GOALS
Rho Zeta Omega identified major immediate, near-term, and long-term issues to be addressed
based on the identified ‘Key Findings.’ As a result, the following four common themes, or key
focus areas, were identified as priority goals for the Chapter:
GOAL 1 – MEMBERSHIP AND SISTERHOOD
Grow, reactivate, retain (85%) and develop a strong, diverse, respectful and actively involved membership of distinguished women consistent with the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® and Rho Zeta Omega mission and vision.
GOAL 2 – STRUCTURE AND OPERATIONS
Maintain an efficient, effective, and transparent (open door) shared governance structure and operations in support of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® and the Rho Zeta Omega mission and vision.
GOAL 3 – FUNDRAISING, SUSTAINABILITY, AND FOUNDATION
Maintain a strong financial base to provide for the financial empowerment and sustainability of the Chapter in support of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® and Rho Zeta Omega.
GOAL 4 – PROGRAMS OF SERVICE
Increase overall participation across all programs of service and activities in support of the goals and mission of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® and Rho Zeta Omega.

8 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
RHO ZETA OMEGA STRATEGIC PLAN 2017-2019
GOAL 1 – MEMBERSHIP AND SISTERHOOD Grow, reactivate, retain (85%) and develop a strong, diverse, respectful and actively involved membership of distinguished women consistent with the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® and Rho Zeta Omega mission and vision. Objective Key Actions Timeline Responsibility*
1. Recruit at least 85% of Chapter
membership on an annual basis;
generate more enthusiasm across
the Chapter for all activity/event
promotion
Conduct robust
new member
orientation;
assess all
programming
Provide
opportunities for
Chapter sorors
to interact with
one another
outside of
Chapter
meetings, i.e.,
retention
retreats,
mentoring/
buddy
programming
Partner with
Technology
Committee to
capture soror
talents/interests
Evaluate, assess,
adjust as needed
Annually;
2017
Membership
Committee
Subcommittees
appropriate to
activity/event
Public Relations
Committee

9 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
Objective Key Actions Timeline Responsibility*
2. Recruit talented women for
Graduate Membership in Rho Zeta
Omega/Alpha Kappa Alpha
Sorority, Incorporated ®
Consider, vote
on, and if
appropriate,
execute an MIP
consistent with
Chapter bylaws
Offer an
undergraduate to
graduate
membership
program each
semester for Pi
Phi graduating
seniors
Annually;
2017
Annually,
2017 May,
Aug, Dec
Membership
Committee
Certified
Graduate
Advisory Council
Member
3. Reactivate at least 25% of the
sorors that visit the Chapter
seeking to reactivate or transfer.
Develop a robust
visitor
orientation
process
implemented at
monthly (10)
Chapter
meetings
annually.
Conduct at least
one reclamation
event annually.
Partner with
Technology
Committee to
utilize social
platforms.
2017
Membership
Committee
Sisterhood

10 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
Objective Key Actions Timeline Responsibility*
4. Enhance and execute a robust
internal (Chapter) and external
(regional/international)
awards/recognition program
Regular
Committee
meetings as
needed to
develop and
execute awards
program
Develop and
adhere to a
timeline that will
ensure an
inclusive
process and
timely
submission
Timeline
award
specific:
Feb/Mar
for
regional
submissi
ons
January
for
Chapter
awards
Awards
Committee

11 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
GOAL 2 – STRUCTURE AND OPERATIONS Maintain an efficient, effective, and transparent (open door) shared governance structure and operations in support of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® and the Rho Zeta Omega mission and vision.
Objective Key Actions Timeline Responsibility*
1. Establish a management system to
(a) effectively facilitate
officer/Committee leadership
transition; (b) prepare year-end
documentation for audit readiness
Schedule
meetings as
needed to
develop
appropriate
systems with
accompanying
documentation
Develop a
timeline for
transition
including
submission of
items/documents
specified in
written plan
Annually in
September
Nominating
Committee
Potential Ad Hoc
Committee
2. Ensure that Chapter Bylaws are
consistent with International
Bylaws; Ensure that sorors are
aware of International and Chapter
bylaws
Review
International
Bylaws
regularly
Update Chapter
Bylaws as
needed via
Boule
amendments and
Chapter
revisions and
present at
Chapter
meetings,
monthly
newsletter
Annually in
the Spring
Bylaws
Committee
Bylaws
Committee
Members
Standards
Committee

12 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
Objective Key Actions Timeline Responsibility*
3. Review current annual budget
planning process to determine
areas for improved efficiencies
Review process
for gathering
Chapter input
Review current
annual budget
Determine
budget for
following year
Annually
Spring
Summer
Basileus
Standards
Committee
Budget
Committee
Anti-Basileus
PEARL
Foundation
Officers
Program
Committee

13 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
GOAL 3 – FUNDRAISING, VISABILITY, SUSTAINABILITY, AND FOUNDATION Maintain a strong financial base to provide for the financial empowerment and sustainability of the Chapter in support the priorities of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® and Rho Zeta Omega.
Objective Key Actions Timeline Responsibility*
1. By 2021 and in partnership with
the PEARL FOUNDATION,
increase funds raised annually by
30% (non-assessment) through
fundraising activities and a 50%
increase in corporate sponsorships.
Plan and
implement 2
major
fundraisers per
year yielding
profit of at least
$15K each for
Chapter and in
collaboration
with the PEARL
FOUNDATION
Bring to
membership for
approval per
Chapter bylaws
Assess, evaluate,
adjust as needed
2017; goals
met by 2020
Annually
Fundraising
Committee
PEARL
Foundation
President
EAF Committee
PEARL
Foundation
Treasurer
Respective
Committees
2. Increase visibility in the
community to facilitate major
corporate or community
sponsorships with strategic
planning and intentional execution
Identify and
leverage
opportunities for
combined
audiences for
maximum
impact and
broader
community
reach
Develop regular
PR training
within the
Chapter
January 2017
and ongoing
January 2017
and ongoing
Public Relations
Committee

14 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
Objective Key Actions Timeline Responsibility*
3. Capitalize Endowment Fund
($20,000) by the end of 2018 to
support Graduate scholarships
($2,500 by 2019)
Develop and
execute an EAF
Campaign
Establish an
informed Board
to serve as an
advisory to the
Graduate
Scholarship
Program;
provide Board
orientation
December
2018
December
2019
EAF Committee

15 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
GOAL 4 – PROGRAMS OF SERVICE Increase participation across all programs of service and activities in support of the goals and mission of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® and Rho Zeta Omega.
Objective Key Actions Timeline Responsibility*
1. Enhance the effectiveness and
expand the reach of Chapter
initiated Programming in support
of International Priorities
Maintain/increase the number
of Golden Citizens that attend
the quarterly “Dinner and
Learn”
Kids’ Club
Increase number of male
students in the ASCEND
Program
Expand the Environmental
Ownership Awareness in the
Community”
Expand the Family
Strengthening Seasonal Wraps
Program (2 annual initiatives)
Increase
outreach visits
and marketing to
identified sites/
organizations
within the
community
Partner with
other
Committees to
generate interest
and participation
throughout the
Chapter
Partner with
Technology
Committee to
assess the
feasibility of
increasing the
use of social
media;
implement as
appropriate
Evaluate, assess,
adjust as needed;
announce and
celebrate
successes
Annually
beginning
January 2017
and ongoing
January 2017
and ongoing
Program
Committee
Committee Co-
chairmen

16 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
Objective Key Actions Timeline Responsibility*
Develop
intentional
outreach plan to
increase the
collaboration/
partnership with
other Chapter
Committees
Develop and
implement an
active
recruitment plan
to increase
Chapter
participation
Expand to
include other
schools with the
Cobb County
District
Renew focus on
International
Target Areas
Evaluate, assess,
readjust as
needed
All Committees

17 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
Objective Key Actions Timeline Responsibility*
2. Determine which of the current
International priorities will be
continued beyond transition in
International leadership
Review and
develop plan for
each
International
priority
regarding
continuation
beyond next
International
leadership
transition, (i.e.,
ASCEND vs.
ongoing college
prep
programming)
Determine
which
programming
should be
continued/expan
ded
/discontinued
based upon
demographics
and needs
assessment
within Cobb
County service
area
January 2017
and ongoing
Program
Committee
Program
Subcommittees

18 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
Objective Key Actions Timeline Responsibility*
3. Expand health education outreach
to the Cobb County/Marietta
communities
Establish,
develop and
execute an
annual health
fair in the
community
Increase
participation in
Chapter health
promotion
activities
(personally and
for the service
communities)
Quarterly
March
December
Health Committee
*All activities require Executive Committee Approval.

19 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
IMPLEMENTATION TEAM AND MAINTENANCE OF THE PLAN
As recommended by Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority, Incorporated®, Rho Zeta Omega Chapter
will formalize an implementation process to measure the progress of the Chapter against the
approved Strategic Plan.
Thus, in January 2017, the Strategic Planning Committee will transition into an Implementation
Team that will meet quarterly to facilitate ongoing assessment of the Plan’s execution. This
Implementation Team will submit a report to the membership on an annual basis.
The Rho Zeta Omega Implementation Team will:
Consult with designated “champion sorors” of key initiatives regarding activities and
outcomes;
Review and track progress on a quarterly basis;
Report updates to the Chapter on an annual basis;
Facilitate adjustment of Plan components as needed with membership approval as
required by Chapter bylaws;
Maintain the most current version of Plan on the Rho Zeta Omega website;
Submit a copy of the annually updated Plan to the Regional Director each year;
Maintain a copy of the current Plan in Chapter files for self-assessment and evaluation
purposes.
CONCLUSION
The 2016 Strategic Planning Committee would like to recognize the participation of the Chapter
and Leadership Team for its full participation in successfully completing the Plan. Working on a
strict timeline to complete the final phase of the planning (Appendix B), the entire membership
was mobilized around this important initiative. We look forward to the continuing efforts in
support of the Implementation Phase.

20 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
APPENDICIES

21 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INCORPORATED®
RHO ZETA OMEGA CHAPTER
STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE ACTION PLANS
ASCEND SUBMITTING SOROR:
SARAH JOHNSON/MARCELLA JONES
TACTICAL OBJECTIVE
(What will accomplish)
SPECIFIC TASKS
(How we will get it done)
METRICS
(Measure of success)
BUDGET
(Cost)
TIMELINE
(Begin/end)
CHAMPION
(Responsible Soror)
Increase the numbers of male
students in the program by
10-15%
1. Reach out to the
community by visiting the
following
sites/organizations
Churches
Fraternities
Boys and Girls Clubs
Schools
Group Homes
Coaches at School
2. Present an overview of the
program at each
location/organization
Advisements of the
program at each location
/organization (Flyer,
brochures of each
subcommittee/overview
and applications, Media:
Facebook, Instagram,
hashtags)
Numbers of male
students
increased by 10-
15%
Annually -
Beginning
with the
annual
recruitment
process of the
program and
ending upon
the selection
of students
Recruitment
Team
Co-Chairs
Coaches
*NOTE: All Activities Require Executive Committee Approval
COMMITTEE ACTION PLANS APPENDIX A – COMMITTEE ACTION PLANS

22 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
AWARDS SUBMITTING SOROR: JOVONN GIVENS
TACTICAL OBJECTIVE (What will accomplish)
SPECIFIC TASKS (How we will get it done)
METRICS (Measure of success)
BUDGET (Cost)
TIMELINE (Begin/end)
CHAMPION (Responsible Soror)
Submit awards to regional
conference that demonstrate
Chapter programs and Soror
activities
Committee meets to review
award criteria and decide
on awards to submit
Committee works with
program chair and
subcommittee chairs to
make recommendations on
awards to submit and to
gather pictures and
supporting documentation
Committee completes
award submissions
Committee ships awards to
designated location set by
regional Committee
Number of
awards
submitted to
regional
Committee by
deadline
$1100
February/Mar
ch (dependent
on awards
deadline set
by regional
Committee)
Awards chair
Execute annual Chapter
awards program
Develop nomination forms
for Soror of the Year,
Sisterly Relations, New
Chapter Member, &
Outstanding Service
Committee vets nominees
against criteria set forth in
the operation manual
Committee presents
nominees to Chapter for
vote
Committee plans program
for January Chapter
meeting including working
with other Committee
chairs for recognition
(membership, EAF,
program)
Execution of
Chapter awards
program
$220
January
Awards
Committee
Membership
Committee
EAF
Committee
Basileus
*NOTE: All Activities Require Executive Committee Approval

23 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
BYLAWS SUBMITTING SOROR: DANA NEWMAN
TACTICAL OBJECTIVE
(What will accomplish)
SPECIFIC TASKS
(How we will get it done)
METRICS
(Measure of success)
BUDGET
(Cost)
TIMELINE
(Begin/end)
CHAMPION
(Responsible Soror)
Ensure Chapter Bylaws
concur with International
Bylaws
Keep abreast of
International Bylaws
changes and their impact to
Rho Zeta Omega Bylaws
Update Rho Zeta Omega
Bylaws as necessary
Proposed
Bylaws
amendments
presented to
the Chapter
for voting
TBD -
Approved
annually
at the
budget
planning
session
January 2017
– No end
Date
All Committee
Members
Increase Chapter’s awareness
and knowledge of Rho Zeta
Omega Bylaws
“Know Your Bylaws”
corner in the Rho Zeta
Omega monthly newsletter
Interactive module at Rho
Zeta Omega annual
Leadership Seminar
Periodic/quarterly “did you
know…?” Bylaws
presentation at Chapter
meetings
Add as
additional
effectiveness
feedback
question on
Seminar and
Chapter surveys
and
questionnaires
TBD –
Approved
annually
at the
budget
planning
session
January 2017
– No end
Date
Bylaws
Committee
All Committee
Members
*NOTE: All Activities Require Executive Committee Approval

24 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
EAF SUBMITTING SOROR: ANISSA HUNTER
TACTICAL OBJECTIVE
(What will accomplish)
SPECIFIC TASKS
(How we will get it done)
METRICS
(Measure of success)
BUDGET
(Cost)
TIMELINE
(Begin/end)
CHAMPION
(Responsible Soror)
Capitalize Endowment Fund
by the end of 2018 ($20,000)
Develop and execute an EAF
Campaign
Track the funds
received against
$20,000 goal
$100
Sept – Dec
ending in
2018
EAF Captain
Committee
Members
Raise Money for Graduate
Scholarships beginning 2019
($2,500) Based on past
annual contributions
Develop and execute an EAF
Campaign
Track the funds
received against
$2,500 goal
$100 Sept – Dec
(every year)
First award in
2019
EAF Captain
Committee
Members
Establish a board to
determine how much, when
and how often to give
Graduate Scholarships
Meeting and present proposal
to Executive Board and Chapter
for feedback and approval
Completed
documentation
outlining the
criteria and
specific details
of the
scholarship.
By December
2019
EAF Captain
Committee
Members
Start giving Graduate
Scholarships 2022
Develop and execute an EAF
Campaign
Track the funds
received against
goal
$100 Sept – Dec
(every year)
EAF Captain
Committee
Members
*NOTE: All Activities Require Executive Committee Approval

25 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
EDUCATIONAL ENRICHMENT (SCHOLARSHIP/THINKHBCU/BACKPACKS) SUBMITTING SOROR: CHRISTY JACKSON
TACTICAL OBJECTIVE
(What will accomplish)
SPECIFIC TASKS
(How we will get it done)
METRICS
(Measure of success)
BUDGET
(Cost)
TIMELINE
(Begin/end)
CHAMPION
(Responsible
Soror)
1. Establish a process for
scholarship procedures
2. Follow International
Guidelines for ThinkHBCU
activities
3. Follow International
Guidelines for collecting
and donating one million
backpacks and related
school supplies
1. Post scholarship application
2. Schedule interviews
3. Schedule scholarship
reception
1. Kickoff 08 Campaign at the
September Chapter meeting to
raise funds by asking Sorors
to make an $8 donation
2. Designate a scholarship to a
recipient who plans to attend
an HBCU
1. Collet backpacks from Sorors
Have Sorors
complete survey
for improvements
The actual amount
raised by the
Chapter at the end
of the year
Provide the actual
number of
backpacks
collected based on
Chapter size
Minimum:
$15,000
Minimum:
$300
$300
December 15 –
May 15
annually
January 1 –
December 31
annually
September 1 –
June 15
annually
Scholarship
Committee
Foundation Board
ThinkHBCU
Committee
Backpack
Committee
*NOTE: All Activities Require Executive Committee Approval

26 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
ENVIRONMENTAL OWNERSHIP SUBMITTING SORORS:
JANET LONGMIRE/CHANDA CALDWELL
TACTICAL OBJECTIVE
(What will accomplish)
SPECIFIC TASKS
(How we will get it done)
METRICS
(Measure of success)
BUDGET
(Cost)
TIMELINE
(Begin/end)
CHAMPION
(Responsible Soror)
Increase community outreach
and impact with Committee
activities to benefit those
outside of Chapter.
Promote environmental
stewardship in the
communities we support
Increase use of social
media to increase interest
and enthusiasm around
environmental issues
Partnership with other
Committees to generate
interest and participation
outside of normal audience
Create informational
speaker series on
environmental issues
affecting communities we
serve
Begin using pre/post
surveys for activities to
collect better feedback
Increased
participation
at events
and
activities
Measure the
positive
impact of
activities
(increased
recycling,
cleaner areas
we support,
etc.)
$400
11/2016
and ongoing
Committee
Chair/Co-chair
*NOTE: All Activities Require Executive Committee Approval

27 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
FAMILY STRENGTHENING SUBMITTING SORORS:
WENONA WATSON/MONIQUE SPAULDING
TACTICAL OBJECTIVE
(What will accomplish)
SPECIFIC TASKS
(How we will get it done)
METRICS
(Measure of success)
BUDGET
(Cost)
TIMELINE
(Begin/end)
CHAMPION
(Responsible Soror)
To either solicit donations
from the Chapter or use
budgeted funds to purchase
seasonal wraps
To successfully execute 2
Seasonal Wrap Initiatives per
calendar year
Complete both
initiatives per
Corporate
guidelines
$500 January 2017
for April
distribution
September
2017 for
December
distribution
Family
Strengthening
Committees
*NOTE: All Activities Require Executive Committee Approval

28 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
FUNDRAISING SUBMITTING SOROR – TUREA FLOWERS
TACTICAL OBJECTIVE
(What will accomplish)
SPECIFIC TASKS
(How we will get it done)
METRICS
(Measure of success)
BUDGET
(Cost)
TIMELINE
(Begin/end)
CHAMPION
(Responsible Soror)
By 2021, increase funds
raised annually by 30% (non-
assessment) through
fundraising activities and a
50% increase in corporate
sponsorship annually.
Establish sponsorship and
fundraising goals
Provide PEARL updates
prior Rho Zeta Omega
meetings.
Evaluate and present the
impact of the EAF
endowment campaign on
The PEARL Foundation
long term goals to the EC
and Chapter
Profit/Loss
reports
TBD
2017-2021
Fundraising
Committee
PEARL Board
President
EAF
Committee,
PEARL Board
Plan and implement 2 major
fundraising programs per
year yielding profit of at least
15K each by 2020.
Develop a plan for 2 major
fundraisers per year
Bring to Chapter for vote
Assess new event concepts
Chapter vote
Event calendar
Event budget
2017
2017
PEARL Board
Fundraising
Committee
Fundraising
Committee
Reduce soror PEARL
Foundation assessment for by
30-40% by 2022.
Establish a vote for a reduced
assessment.
Chapter vote
2022
Fundraising
Committee
PEARL Board
*NOTE: All Activities Require Executive Committee Approval

29 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
HEALTH COMMITTEE SUBMITTING SOROR: MICHELE MCKENZIE
TACTICAL OBJECTIVE (What will accomplish)
SPECIFIC TASKS (How we will get it done)
METRICS (Measure of success)
BUDGET (Cost)
TIMELINE (Begin/end)
CHAMPION (Responsible Soror)
1. Establish an annual
health fair to meet the
international health
platform
2. Provide health education
outreach to the Cobb
County/ Marietta
community regarding
health issues facing
African Americans
3. Increase soror
participation in Chapter
program activities
1. Identify a Committee to
attain corporate sponsor
Form a logistics
Committee to identify
location, secure
vendors, etc.
Form a volunteer
Committee
2. Work in conjunction with
Chapter Public Relations
Committee
Identify speakers
Identify location
3. Ensure that programs are
open to all Chapter sorors
and not just Committee
members
Recognize sorors’
participation hours
Soror, vendor,
and
community
member
participation
survey
Soror and
community
member
participation
survey
Program
participation
log and/or
electronic sign
in system log
Minimal -
$1000
Minimal -
$500
$0
December
Annually
March
Quarterly
Health
Committee
Health
Committee
Health
Committee
Chairperson
Program
Chairperson
*NOTE: All Activities Require Executive Committee Approval

30 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
GOLDEN CITIZENS SUBMITTING SORORS:
JOANNE LOUIS/CRYSTAL BRANTLEY
TACTICAL OBJECTIVE (What will accomplish)
SPECIFIC TASKS (How we will get it done)
METRICS (Measure of success)
BUDGET (Cost)
TIMELINE (Begin/end)
CHAMPION (Responsible Soror)
Increase and maintain the
number of Golden Citizens
that attend the quarterly
Dinner and Learn sessions
Recruit new members to
attend the quarterly dinner
and learn sessions
Ensure new members are
able to attend the dinner
and learn sessions
Compare number
of Golden
Citizens from
beginning of
year to the end of
the year
January 2017
– No end
Date
All Committee
Members
Ensure Golden Citizens
program is in line with
international platform
Ensure dinner and learn topics
are in line with International
Platform
January 2017
– No end
Date
All Committee
Members
Increase collaboration and
partnership with other
Committees
Reach out to other Committee
chairs and create topics for
quarterly dinner and learns that
fall in line with Committee
targets
Document the
number of
programs that
include
partnership with
other
Committees in
the Chapter
January 2017
– No end
Date
All Committee
Members
*NOTE: All Activities Require Executive Committee Approval

31 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
KIDS CLUB SUBMITTING SOROR: TAMMIE NIXON
TACTICAL OBJECTIVE
(What will accomplish)
SPECIFIC TASKS
(How we will get it done)
METRICS
(Measure of success)
BUDGET
(Cost)
TIMELINE
(Begin/end)
CHAMPION
(Responsible Soror)
1. To provide hands-on
learning sessions that
encourages student
learning and
participation.
Consult with the teachers
and/or principals at the
partnering schools to seek
feedback from the sessions.
Schools’
feedback,
Number of
participants
Student
surveys
January 2017
No Specified
Date
All Committee
Members
2. Ensure learning sessions
are aligned with
International Programs.
Design topics/activities that
focus on the International
Target Areas.
The
Chapter’s
Leadership
will measure
success.
January 2017
No Specified
Dates
All Committee
Members
3. Establish partnerships
with other Cobb County
Schools.
Research the needs of other
schools in the Cobb County
District.
Success will be
measured by the
number of new
school
partnerships
established.
January 2017
– No
Specified
Date
All Committee
Members
PEARL Board
*NOTE: All Activities Require Executive Committee Approval

32 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
MEMBERSHIP SUBMITTING SOROR – JENNIFER TURNER
TACTICAL OBJECTIVE (What will accomplish)
SPECIFIC TASKS (How we will get it done)
METRICS (Measure of success)
BUDGET (Cost)
TIMELINE (Begin/end)
CHAMPION (Responsible Soror)
1. Reactivate at least 25%
of the sorors that visit
the Chapter seeking to
reactivate or transfer
Develop a robust visitor
and visitor orientation
process and implement at
10 monthly Chapter
meetings
Conduct at least one
reclamation event
annually.
Work with the Technology
and Public Relations
Committee to utilize
platforms such as social
media (Twitter, Facebook,
Instagram, Snapchat,
Linkedin) where
appropriate to highlight
member involvement
(programs, standing
Committee)
*Provide easily accessible
tools for Chapter sorors to
get involved in reclaiming
lost pearls (contact cards)
Utilize Chapter soror
visitor information to
promote events/activities
as appropriate
In conjunction with the
Chapter Awards
Committee, incentivize
sorors to assist Chapter
membership with
reclamation efforts.
Program
Developed
At least 25%
of visitors
reactivated
Implement
program 10
times
(monthly –
Jan-Jun,
Sep-Dec)
Feedback
(verbal or
survey)
requested on
impact of
program.
Committee
to check and
adjust
annually
Reclamation
event
conducted
Two
platforms
utilized
Web or
Social
Media Data
tool
provided to
sorors
Survey
success of
use via
feedback or
survey.
Number of
visitors (#)
Contact
Information
Chapter
award
criteria
developed
TBD
Ongoing;
each Chapter
meeting
Annually
Annually
Membership
Committee (to
assign annually
via
subcommittees
or similar
process)

33 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
TACTICAL OBJECTIVE
(What will accomplish)
SPECIFIC TASKS
(How we will get it done)
METRICS
(Measure of success)
BUDGET
(Cost)
TIMELINE
(Begin/end)
CHAMPION
(Responsible Soror)
Awards
awarded.
2. Recruit talented women
for Graduate
Membership in Rho Zeta
Omega/Alpha Kappa
Alpha Sorority Inc.
(currently on a 3-4 year
basis)
Ensure per the Chapter By-
Laws that Chapter
members vote on whether
or not to conduct Graduate
MIP in the next calendar
year.
If affirmative vote, conduct
graduate MIP, conduct
Graduate MIP following
the official Graduate
Membership Intake
Process Manual.
Vote taken
If
affirmative
vote,
Graduate
MIP
successfully
implemente
d following
official
governing
documents
and
Graduate
MIP Manual
Survey New
Members
Annual
in June
Conduct per
Graduate
MIP Manual/
Schedule
Membership
Committee
3. Retain at least 85% of
Chapter membership on
annual basis the next
calendar year.
Conduct a robust new
member orientation on an
annual basis for all new
Chapter members
Develop creative
membership driven
activities (Spring/Fall
event) and ongoing
activities via the
Membership Committee to
provide an opportunity for
Chapter sorors to interact
with one another outside of
Chapter meetings.
Orientation
Conducted
Survey
participants
as a check
and adjust
Conducted
Fall/Spring
Events
Success of
program
determined
via Survey/
Feedback
Annually
(March)
Fall/Spring of
calendar year
Ongoing for
some
activities, ie,
Getting to
Know Your
Membership
Committee (via
Subcommittees)

34 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
TACTICAL OBJECTIVE
(What will accomplish)
SPECIFIC TASKS
(How we will get it done)
METRICS
(Measure of success)
BUDGET
(Cost)
TIMELINE
(Begin/end)
CHAMPION
(Responsible Soror)
Develop and implement an
annual Graduate Soror to
Graduate Soror Mentoring
Program
Conduct a Chapter member
retreat annually focused on
soror retention
Develop and implement a
Chapter “buddy” (or
similar) to assist new
members.
Develop a measurement
tool (survey, interview) for
sorors who exit the Chapter
and implement. Analyze
data and review with
Chapter Leadership.
* With the assistance of
Chapter Technology
Committee, capture soror
talents/interests for better
member utilization.
Program
review
conducted
via
Mentoring
Program
Manual
(Y/N)
Program
review to
determine
success via
Survey/
Feedback
Member
retreat
conducted
Conduct
Survey to
gather
feedback
Program
conducted
Number of
Sorors
Outreached
(#/Total
Chapter
membership
or new
members
Page
(GTKYP) or
meetings)
Annual
Annual (July-
Aug)
Ongoing
Annually

35 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
TACTICAL OBJECTIVE
(What will accomplish)
SPECIFIC TASKS
(How we will get it done)
METRICS
(Measure of success)
BUDGET
(Cost)
TIMELINE
(Begin/end)
CHAMPION
(Responsible Soror)
Survey/Tool
developed
(Y/N)
Number of
responses/
interviews
received
Soror
utilization of
tool (%)
Improved
Chapter
retention
rate (%)
4. Undergraduate to
Graduate Member
Program is held each
semester (or prior to
graduation) for Pi Phi
Sorors
With the assistance of the
Graduate Advisor/
Graduate Advisory Council
ensure transition activities
are held for Graduating Pi
Phi Sorors.
Formalize program such
that the information
provide is consistently
delivered.
Promote the Dues
Incentive Program for
Undergraduates
transferring to Rho Zeta
Omega directly after
membership
Program
developed/
conducted
Number of
sessions
See previous
metric (roll
into
program)
May, Aug,
Dec
Membership
Committee
Certified
Graduate
Advisory
Council
Member
*NOTE: All Activities Require Executive Committee Approval

36 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
NOMINATING COMMITTEE SUBMITTING SOROR – KRISTIE WOODS
TACTICAL OBJECTIVE
(What will accomplish)
SPECIFIC TASKS
(How we will get it done)
METRICS
(Measure of success)
BUDGET
(Cost)
TIMELINE
(Begin/end)
CHAMPION
(Responsible Soror)
A. Provide
recommendations for
Chapter By-Laws
changes
B. Encourage Sorors to
become more engaged in
the Chapter election
process.
C. Request for the increase
in the size of the
Nominating Committee.
The Chapter size has
increased over the last five
years and the Chapter By-
Laws must be aligned with
the International
Nominating Guidelines.
Assist sorors to identify
how their professional
experiences and other
volunteer activities can be
a transferrable skill for
pursuing officer positions
in Rho Zeta Omega.
Create program for sorors
to shadow an officer for
one month in a position
they may consider
pursuing
Submit a bylaw
recommendation to
increase the size of the
Nominating Committee to
eight.
Complete by
January 31,
2017.
Submit the by
March 2017
Submit by
June 2017.
Nominating
Committee
All Nominating
Committee
members
*NOTE: All Activities Require Executive Committee Approval

37 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
PUBLIC RELATIONS SUBMITTING SOROR: MARANIE BROWN
TACTICAL OBJECTIVE
(What will accomplish)
SPECIFIC TASKS
(How we will get it done)
METRICS
(Measure of success)
BUDGET
(Cost)
TIMELINE
(Begin/end)
CHAMPION
(Responsible Soror)
Increase visibility in the
community to hopefully
secure a major corporate or
community sponsor
Develop promotional
components/value-adds for
sponsorship packages for
corporate sponsors.
Secure features in
state/regional publications,
outlets, and/or social media
channels
1-2 corporate
sponsors secured
for 2017-2018
1-2 state/regional
features secured
for 2017-2018
$750 for
regular
ads in
local
magazines
and radio
Begin in
January 2017
Public
Relations
Committee
Increase collaboration (for
promotional activity) with
other Chapters within the
Metro Atlanta area
Identify opportunities for
collaboration and leverage
combined audiences for
maximum impact and larger
reach in communities
1 feature/
promotional
activity secured
with other
Chapters
NA
Begin in
January 2017
Public
Relations
Committee
Anti-Basileus
Generate more enthusiasm
across the Chapter for all
event promotion
Outline expectations for
individual Chapter
members to promote
events
Develop regular PR
training for Chapter
Majority of the
Chapter
participates in
training
NA Begin in
January 2017
Public
Relations
Committee
Program
Committees
*NOTE: All Activities Require Executive Committee Approval

38 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
STANDARDS COMMITTEE SUBMITTING SOROR – STACY GROOMS
TACTICAL OBJECTIVE (What will accomplish)
SPECIFIC TASKS (How we will get it done)
METRICS (Measure of success)
BUDGET (Cost)
TIMELINE (Begin/end)
CHAMPION (Responsible Soror)
1. Establish a management
system to effectively
facilitate officer / Committee
transition.
2. Establish a management
system to prepare year- end
documentation for audit
readiness.
16 Define a more
effective annual
budget planning
process.
Schedule meetings for each
Office and Chairman
Provide details on what
needs to be provided
Have a Standards
Committee member
facilitate each meeting
Schedule an official
schedule for turn-in of
identified items
Collect items and
immediately prepare for
storage
To be determined.
Sign-off process
by new officer
validating
transition
Audits passed
with high rating
Annual budgets
meet Chapter
requirements,
with no shortage/
overage
Minimal -
$100
Minimal -
$200
$400
December 1 –
December 31
Annually
January 1 –
January 31
Spring /
Summer
Annually
Standards
Committee
Standards
Committee
Standards
Committee,
Budget
Committee,
Anti-
Basileus,
Tamiouchos,
PEARL
Treasurer
*NOTE: All Activities Require Executive Committee Approval

39 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
September 8
Begin final phase of Strategic Planning
Engage Strategic Planning Consultant - Dr. Jacqueline McMillan (Tau Pi Omega)
September 10
Chapter Meeting – Basileus to update/reengage Chapter
Distribute/collect shortened survey
September 15
Distribute survey electronically/SurveyMonkey
Reaffirm commitment of Strategic Planning Committee Chairman/Team
Confirm invitation to September 17 focus groups via email
September 17
Consultant will conduct 5 focus groups (Saturday)
September 29
Consultant will provide briefing to Executive Committee (via phone)
Planning grid template submitted to Executive Committee for review and completion (areas of
responsibility/expertise only)
October 6
Consultant meets with the Strategic Planning Committee (in person)
Committee receives briefing and update on the process to date
Review/approve timeline
October 15
Chapter Meeting – Strategic Planning presentation team and consultant will provide 10-15
minute update to membership
Distribute timeline
Executive Committee/Committee Chairmen/Standing Committee Chairmen are asked to complete
the planning grid by filling in the blanks for their areas of responsibility/expertise
Committee Chairmen encouraged to engage Committee members to develop input/feedback (i.e.,
programs, finance, sisterly relations, etc.)
October 29
Due date for submission of completed planning grids from Executive Committee/Committee
Chairmen/Standing Committee Chairmen
November 3
First draft of plan submitted to Basileus and Executive Committee
November 12
Chapter Meeting – Update Chapter on progress
First draft of plan available to membership
Feedback needed in one week
November 19 Deadline for feedback
December 1
Completed Strategic Planning document submitted to Executive Committee
December 10 Meeting – Final update to Chapter
Final document available to membership
Feedback needed in one week
10/10/2016jm
Rho Zeta Omega
Strategic Planning
Timeline 2016
APPENDIX B – TIMELINE

40 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
Greetings, Sorors: We are seeking your input for the current Rho Zeta Omega strategic planning process. Please complete the following short survey and RETURN IT TODAY. Please be candid but succinct with your responses. Your voice is important to this process!
1. How many years have you been in the Chapter? __________ In the Sorority? __________
2. Please list your current roles with Rho Zeta Omega: officer, Committee Chairman, Committee member, etc.
1_______________________ 2_______________________ 3_______________________
3. What would you like Rho Zeta Omega to focus on in the next 3-5 years? What topics or issues do you hope
we can address during the planning process? 4. What do you feel are the most important/successful programs, activities or services that Rho Zeta Omega
currently offers to Chapter members? 5. What do you believe are the most important/successful programs or services that Rho Zeta Omega currently
provides to our service area? 6. List any programs or services that you feel Rho Zeta Omega does not currently provide to its members or
service communities that we should consider.
Rho Zeta Omega Strategic Planning Survey
September Chapter Meeting, 2016
PLEASE CONTINUE ON BACK
APPENDIX C – SURVEY QUESTIONS/RESULTS

41 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
7. List what you consider to be Rho Zeta Omega strengths.
8. List what you consider to be Rho Zeta Omega’s weaknesses or areas in need of improvement. 9. List what you would like to see Rho Zeta Omega do in order to become a better or more effective
organization. Think in terms of opportunities. 10. List what you believe Rho Zeta Omega should do differently (change, enhance, discontinue, etc.) in order to
remain a relevant and effective organization. Remember to also consider threats and/or “competing” service organizations.
11. What expertise or special interests can you bring to Rho Zeta Omega’s continuing development that you are
not currently providing, e.g., finances, fundraising, marketing, communications, planning, etc.?
1_______________________ 2_______________________ 3_______________________ 12. Please suggest 3 specific strategic goals for the plan:
1 _________________________________________________________________________ 2 _________________________________________________________________________ 3 _________________________________________________________________________
Thank you for your input!

42 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
Rho Zeta Omega Strategic Planning Survey Raw Results *Some edits made for clarity
Hard Copy Submissions N = 24
1. How many years have you been in the Chapter?
YEARS IN CHAPTER YEARS IN SORORITY
0 – 4 years 8 0 – 4 years 3
5 – 10 years 10 5 – 10 years 2
11 – 15 years 1 11 – 15 years 2
16 – 20 years 1 16 – 20 years 2
20+ years 4 20+ years 15
2. Please list your current roles with Rho Zeta Omega: officer, Committee Chairman, Committee member, etc.
TBD
Health Connections Bylaws
Health Fundraising Committee member
Technology ASCEND member Sisterhood member
Standards Health Anti-Pecunious Grammateus
Sisterhood Committee Connections Fundraising
Scholarship Grammateus Officer
Committee Chairman Scholarship Fundraising
Sisterhood Committee Connections Anti-Basileus/Program Chairman
Membership member Sisterhood member Connection
Committee Chairman Golden Citizens Road cleanup Committee
Golden Citizens Fundraising Sisterhood
Chairman Foundation President Chairman on 3 Committees
Graduate Advisory Council PEARL Board Foundation Grant Committee
Nominating Committee Health Committee Graduate Advisory Council

43 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
3. What would you like Rho Zeta Omega to focus on in the next 3-5 years? What topics or
issues do you hope we can address during the planning process?
Health (mental and physical)
Educating the community on laws and government process that affect the community
Some sort of strategy to encourage sorors to be officers by making it appealing; I think an officer spotlight in the newsletter would be fantastic; even past officers; what made them run, etc.; succession planning
Fundraising made easy; provide service for teens and young children in group homes (foster home kids)
Education
Other district schools (ODS) – new on horizon; research for information
Emphasize local (city, county-wide) elections
Emphasize Black-on-Black crime (Cobb County-Metro Atlanta)
More membership activities to get to know our current Chapter members
A signature fundraising event; more collaboration between Committees so sorors are not pulled in so many multiple directions on same (or week if possible)
Increasing fundraising amounts, establishing signature fundraiser/programs that continue to garner community support an recognition
More membership activities to get to know our current Chapter members
To continue focusing on sustaining sorors, active membership and participation in programs, and developing a meaningful fundraiser/signature program.
Identifying 2 signature programs that we support each year regardless of corporate platform; develop a program that deliberately engages new Chapter members immediately upon joining the Chapter to prepare them for leadership or identify who may be future leaders with the Chapter.
A structured shadowing process whereby members with leadership potential and desires receive training to prepare them to take office and be successful.
Mentoring to reactivating sorors; activating Chapter members to participate in programs
Programs for youth; programs for senior citizens
Programs for working with youth; programs for seniors; sisterly relations
Community service & economic development
Sisterly relations and leadership training
Continue partnering with Alzheimer nursing home

44 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
4. What do you feel are the most important/successful programs, activities or services that
Rho Zeta Omega currently offers to Chapter members?
Sisterhood and leadership activities
Sisterhood and membership activities
The meetings (inclusive of prayer team) a lot of good energy and synergy in there
The most important/successful programs, activities or services are membership (reclamation, meet-ups, and social activities of interest)
Our retreat should include a strategic outlook session
Sisterhood and membership activities designed to help sorors get to know each other; I like the “thoughts and prayers” that are announced by the Sisterhood Chairman; it gives us an opportunity to reach out to sorors in need.
All of them
Sisterhood events; community service events in Cobb County
Membership and sisterly relations events
Many outreach programs for the community and sorors
Building sisterly relations
Sisterly relations and leadership training
Educational enrichment; leadership program
Fundraising; health
Sisterhood; fundraising; family strengthening
Sisterhood and membership support; educating each other
Meet up groups
Opportunities to give back to the community that are efficient and mindful of busy working mom’s schedules
5. What do you believe are the most important/successful programs or services that Rho
Zeta Omega currently provides to our service area?
Education and all others
Elementary and middle school programs (playground, etc.)
Scholarship (although we need to raise and give more); Golden Citizens
Community impact days when sorors come together for one purpose to be a voice to the voiceless; family strengthening is another program that truly touches the community
ASCEND; scholarships

45 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
Educational enrichment (scholarship/reception, think HBCU recognition and support, backpack drives and donations, ASCEND, golden citizens, dinner and learn, environmental/acts of green activities (clean pickups along Fairground St.), voter registration and community impact days (1908 Playground Project, MLK Day, Alzheimer, Heart Disease, and NAMI)
Scholarships but we need to do more in this space; college prep
I am biased towards the scholarship program; any assistance we can give to an individual to help them complete a college education becomes a game changer. It saddens me that so many young people are now graduating college saddled with huge loans and loan payments.
All of them
ASCEND; school partnerships
AKA 1908 playground projects; ASCEND
All of our service programs are successful
All the programs; we are well known in Cobb County
Golden citizens
Partnership with our local schools; health awareness
Leadership programs; educational enrichment
Health; family strengthening (meals for kids)
ASCEND; golden citizens; family strengthening; global impact; acts of green
Family strengthening; ASCEND
ASCEND; golden citizens
The playground project w/Home Depot
6. List any programs or services that you feel Rho Zeta Omega does not currently provide to its members or service communities that we should consider.
A buddy system for sorors new to the Chapter; finding your fit for new sorors to find the best place to serve in the Chapter and get them involved and warmly welcomed into active participation.
Food pantry
With a pretty large number of sorors who work in health care and the medical field, I would like to see Rho Zeta Omega provide a health fair within its service area; educate the public on health disease, mental illness, stroke, Alzheimer, nutrition, and exercise; provide blood pressure screenings
We need to start a middle school program; launch an annual health initiative in Cobb County for the underserved community
Our calendar is running over; in lieu of adding more, we should do a better job of collaboration between Committees to that we do not have so many activities at the same time

46 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
Maybe doing something for the homeless community, especially for the children
Partner with troubled teens in group homes
Programs for foster/group home kids
Debutante cotillion
How the laws and government process affects the community
More leadership development and perhaps an addition to the directory for an option to include what sorors do professionally; we had a pink slip part in the past, but there are some sorors that may be looking for a career transition or need references to services such as legal, etc.
7. List what you consider to be Rho Zeta Omega strengths.
Large number; membership; information shared; participation in community
Follows all bylaws; considers the needs of all members/all age groups
Very little friction among members
Sisterhood; program execution
Warm welcome; service within the community; growing community impact and presence in Cobb County
Well known; can quickly organize and mobilize; respected within our organization; have connections/partnerships that help us succeed
Sisterhood and fellowship; family events; social events; health; environmental
We’ve been sisterly
Ability to work together for a common good in spite of differences of opinions
The Chapter is growing; the location is great and events are conveniently located as well
Community involvement (i.e., NAMI walks, environmental ownership; adopt a mile); membership growth
Open door policy
Communication is great
Outreach programs and activities for the community and sorors; strong support of regional and national programs
Our programs for outreach to the community
Presence in leadership roles in South Atlantic Region and Internationally; community programs in Cobb County
Sisterhood; organization
Everyone is a potential leader and when given the opportunity, rise to the occasion with aplomb; the care that sorors show in time of need
The talents and creativity of the Chapter sorors; we have perspectives from all age groups—a diamond soror, several golden sorors and silver sorors, as well as sorors new to the sorority and to the Chapter

47 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
Good financial acumen; friendly/sisterly; respected and regarding throughout metro Atlanta Chapters; we work well together
Rho Zeta Omega is a strong Chapter in terms of its community involvement and community impact; we come through in times of crisis or need for one another; we work well with the other 14 metro Atlanta Chapters; we support our undergraduate Chapter, Pi Phi; we get “it” done
8. List what you consider to be Rho Zeta Omega’s weaknesses or areas in need of
improvement.
Still observing
Transparency; clear messaging/communication; Chapter meeting start/end times
Having a signature fundraising event that community looks forward to on a regular cadence; missed opportunities to collaborate between Rho Zeta Omega Committees
Consistency with some programs; failure to plan long term; some weak leadership
Its just a want for me, I’d like the budget corner to come back
More transparency in electoral process
I’m a new soror and I would like to get to know the sorors better and get connected
Corporate sponsorship
Sometimes it can be unclear who is the designated contact for certain activities or for information
Encourage stronger unity and discourage cliques
None
Determine why sorors want to leave the Chapter when requesting transfers and use these reasons as opportunities for improvement, if warranted; timeliness of meetings
I am concerned about cliques as we continue to grow; as a 20+ year Rho Zeta Omega member, this was never a concern for me previously
Limited bench strength of those willing to lead; we have 2 groups within the Chapter right now—we are divided; we need increased exposure in the community—people should come to us to help with problems because we are known for getting things done
Time management at meetings; respect for Chapter officers and positions held are areas that Chapter sorors need to be mindful of; more Chapter soror presence and participation at program activities and events; I’d like to see more interaction and support for the other Cobb NPHC organizations

48 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
9. List what you would like to see Rho Zeta Omega do in order to become a better or more
effective organization. Think in terms of opportunities.
Still observing
Continue to streamline processes within accordance to AKA and Rho Zeta Omega Chapter bylaws and procedures
Implement long term planning; allow the program chair to run the program Committee
Partner with other organizations/corporations to bring in/raise more dollars to give back to the community
Partner with other organizations; get sponsorships
More corporate sponsors
Remember to be sisterly and know AKA rules
Determine why more Chapter members are not participating in programs
Partner with other orgs
Committee collaboration on Chapter activities
Improve the understanding of the relationship between Pearl and the Chapter; include Pearl meetings at the beginning of each Chapter meeting or in the middle of the Chapter meeting; set up the Anti-Basileus position to work more closely, i.e., shadow the Basileus; ask appointed Chairman who are not performing their duties to step down (having the program mentioned in #3—leadership for new sorors/potential leaders--will help identify the sorors who would be able to step in and lead
Currently, I think Rho Zeta Omega is an effective Chapter with a broad spectrum of knowledge in many areas; we’ve tot to build more fundraising efforts and execution
10. List what you believe Rho Zeta Omega should do differently (change, enhance, discontinue, etc.) in order to remain a relevant and effective organization. Remember to also consider threats and/or “competing” service organizations.
Still observing
Rho Zeta Omega works on the previously noted above—signature programs, opportunities to collaborate between Committees—Rho Zeta Omega would remain a relevant and effective organization
Make stronger partnerships in the community, establish a signature event/program that the community looks forward to in order to build continued support
We have been partnering with other Divine Nine organizations, we should increase that if we can; also, we’ve been sending out the upcoming events (I really appreciate this) however could we have a way to sync the calendar to our phones, etc.

49 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
Maintain compliance and reduce hazing at the undergraduate level; bring on women who choose to serve and not just wear letters
The meetings are too long; is it possible to have a lite breakfast snack or afternoon snack at meetings?
Enhance the use of the Chapter calendar to avoid several activities at the same time; there is so much going on that sorors for the most part only support the activities of the Committee that they serve with; we need to get back to supporting all of the Chapter activities but this won’t happen unless we work collaboratively
Implement a process at the end of a major event, i.e., community breakfast, MIP, etc., to walk through the financials from that event, expenses, income and profit/loss; streamline the number of programs we support and pool our money so that we span fewer causes but we can go deep and really make a difference; set goals and targets for each activity and report the results to the Chapter; number of lives impacted and how…how did we change lives and situations; be open to more even non traditional partnerships in the community
Continue implementing meaningful and relevant program activities; encourage incoming sorors to get on board and actively participate and interact with sorors; after all, they united with the Chapter of their choice
11. What expertise or special interests can you bring to Rho Zeta Omega’s continuing development that you are not currently providing, e.g., finances, fundraising, marketing, communications, planning, etc.?
Education Communication Technology
Communications Planning Networking
Conflict resolution Conflict resolution Human resources
Mentoring Arts and crafts Arts and culture
12. Please suggest 3 specific strategic goals for the plan:
Encourage sorors to share and utilize their talents and skills in the Chapter to educate and bring awareness to issues and/or initiative at hand
Develop along range plan of action for fundraising activities over the next 4-5 years to support our scholarship and other programs
Increase community outreach within Cobb County
Establish one new strategic alliance annually within Cobb County aligned w/a target
Improve establishment of sponsorships and relationships w/sponsors
Chapter fundraiser for program account

50 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
Long term planning for programs (at least 6 months in advance)
Although its probably not in the near future, I would love to have our own meeting facility
Structured shadowing for members who have expressed a desire to serve in a leadership capacity
Increase grants and corporate sponsorships of Chapter programs RHO ZETA OMEGA Survey Responses
Hard copy submissions.jm

51 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
Rho Zeta Omega Chapter
Strategic Planning 2016 Focus Group Questions
1. What major accomplishments of Rho Zeta Omega make you proud to be a member?
2. What do you see as a nonproductive or inefficient practice of the Chapter? Please be specific.
3. What do you believe we need to focus on to ensure the continued success of Rho Zeta Omega? Please be as specific as possible.
Thank you for your input!
APPENDIX D – FOCUS GROUP QUESTIONS/RESULTS

52 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
Rho Zeta Omega Focus Groups Raw Data *Some edits made for clarity
Saturday, September 17, 2016
1. WHAT MAKES YOU PROUD TO BE IN CHAPTER?
Legacy - daughter initiated
Programs
o Contributions/programs o Programs serving people and communities from A-Z (i.e., Golden Citizens) o NAMI/neighborhoods (taking over/mental health) o Health Initiatives - physical and mental health o Signature Programs - Remain even through leadership changes o Scholarship programs o Serving every age group o Numbers served – 3K-5K o Partnerships within community o Service focus o Health focus/NAMI o Kid’s Club o Golden Citizens o Awards (M. Angels) o Programs – ASCEND, Senior Citizens (clothing, holidays) o Elementary/Kids Club o Give back constantly o Think HBCU o Scholarships o Golden Citizens o Foster Kids o 1908 Playground o Dresses for Africa o Program impact o Kids of Incarcerated Parents

53 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
Recognitions
o Home depot/partner/education/partner of the year o Hosted 2010 Founders’ Day – 1908 Day with period costumes o 1908/Regional o Multiple community awards and recognition o Consistent awards on an annual basis at Regional Conferences o Recognitions at Boule o Boule 2016 leadership positions and Chairman in Chapter
Chapter Dynamics
o Diversity – experience, age backgrounds, creativity o Positive reception to new ideas o Resolution of conflict
– Well handled by Basileus – Be open – Golden Rule re tone, speech – Revisit protocols – Decorum – Cattiness – Mandatory protocol training – Sisterly relations – Coming together – Professionalism – Consistency – Finding ways to fit – Following corporate guidelines – Basic programming
o Planning
– Executive Committee and Chapter – Budget/June

54 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
2. WHAT IS NONPRODUCTIVE/INEFFICIENT OR NEEDS TO BE CHANGED/FIXED?
Chapter Meetings
o Meetings are too long o Send reports via email o Use meeting minute compilation on internet o Restrict reports to pertinent issues o Don’t read reports/it’s insulting o Plan for certain number of minutes for each report/stick with it o Time reports (3 min each) o Make report timing part of the Chapter meeting process o Improve/increase/use technology for membership sign-in o End report compilation at least 2-3 days prior to Chapter meeting o Submit all reports ahead of time o Perhaps couple of copies for review prior to the meeting if sorors have not
read. Not during meeting o Submit changes/edits/additions to minutes prior to meetings; track changes
and submit to Grammateus o Develop in-service programming for all new officers that include time
management/report issues o Develop in-service programming for all new officers regarding parliamentary
procedures o Begin and end meetings on time o Don’t read reports in Chapter meetings - Make reports more interesting o Email Committee reports prior to meetings vs. reading during meeting o Place time limits on reports o Place all important events on schedule/calendar o Be selective regarding what is announced in meetings o Parliamentarian not empowered to keep order o Limit discussions in Chapter meetings
Chapter Dynamics
o Big Chapter – thinking small o THINK BIG o Growing pains/cliques – develop strategies to dis-encourage cliques and
encourages networking at Chapter meeting and/or social/programming events
o Too new to contribute o Improve use of member talents – reluctance to utilize talents o Need to develop an electronic skills bank of sorors o Lack of participation – programs vs. social/Chapter meeting o Chapter is award driven vs. service driven

55 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
o Need sisterhood partnership environment o Need for better communication/more transparency o Some don’t feel they have a voice in decisions o Ensure that older sorors are kept in loop o If certain persons speak in a meeting, no one else feels that they can counter
or have alternate view o Some members are “nice nasty” o Too many arguments in Chapter o Arguments need to be taken off line o Increase Foundation fundraising via grants, sponsors, etc.
Chapter is stuck in the past
o Accept new ideas o Increase scholarships based on criteria from Committee/Chapter o Consider tiered awards based upon agreed upon criteria o Determine rationale for decisions o Improve decision transparency o Short term vs. long term planning o Increase fundraising/decrease assessments
Leadership Decision-making/Transparency
o Scholarship Committee’s decisions were changed arbitrarily o Trust issues o Lack of inclusiveness
3. WHAT DO WE NEED TO FOCUS ON TO ENSURE CONTINUING SUCCESS? Leadership Development/Succession Planning
o Soror engagement that leads to leadership development (Committee chairs,
etc.) o Leadership selection process/how are Committee chairs selected? o What is the criteria/what is the process for selecting Committee chairs? o How can we increase typical “go to” lists of current and future leaders? o Enhance/expand relationship building activities and events o Reactivate sorors then involve them in leadership development/make it a
process o Increase membership/sisterhood activities o Present leadership opportunities to the body (Committee chairs, co-chairs,
etc.) o Expand affinity groups then bring them into leadership development
programming

56 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
o Revisit the mandatory participation “rule.” Increase participation/leadership requirements.
o Continue electing strong leadership that embraces a personal/leadership o Leadership development and mentoring o Succession planning
Progressive/creative ideas
o Develop creative ideas/be innovative o Don’t get stuck in how it’s always been done o Increase amount/number of scholarships re growth of Chapter/moving
forward o Growth mind-set/Chapter complacent
Planning and Assessment
o Do less/collaborate more o Assess and measure community impact via survey, assessment, who is our
audience o Candid discussion regarding Chapter growth o Think big/act big
Soror retention
o Soror connectedness o Focus on sisterhood o Create a positive environment o Ensure that everyone feels valued o Region/county growth presents opportunities o Balance representation on Committees/diversity of thought, experience,
longevity in sorority, etc. o Quality of membership intake o Mentorship of new sorors and/or transfers
Fundraising – annual signature event
o Pink Ice Ball/Dance o Mother-Daughter event o Shades of Pink o Hush/Silent auction o Purposeful

57 Rho Zeta Omega Chapter Strategic Plan
Leadership Transparency
o Improve transparency in decision-making, etc. o Leadership should routinely invite and answer all questions o Every voice should be heard and respected o Debate after meeting if not relevant to issue at hand – includes Basileus and
Program Chairmen
Sisterly behavior
o Why are we here o Its not about the individual o We need to walk in love
4. ANYTHING ELSE ON YOUR MIND? Increase grant submissions and sponsor development Decrease Chapter assessments/fund more programming with grants and
sponsorships Engage neutral facilitators more often Include Chapter building (facility) in long-term planning Everyone needs to pitch in so the heart for AKA is apparent Don’t over-extend – we’re not effective when too tired Reach out to new sorors Institute a phone tree/checks regarding leadership (?) Become accountability partners Enhance technology – especially for information dissemination
RHO ZETA OMEGA Focus Group Responses.jm