The Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha; Spring 2014

MyMy

Spring 2014 | Volume 100

Your journey in ASA!Your journey in ASA!

page 6

page 18

FillFillTOTODaysDays

“This is my creed...”

P hoenixof

Beta Nu Chapter, Murray State University, KY

Delta Kappa Chapter, University of Southern Indiana

Theta Delta Chapter, University of Alaska-Anchorage

Zeta Tau Chapter, Grand Valley State University, MI

Beta Sigma Chapter, Missouri State University

Epsilon Lambda Chapter, University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown, PA

Theta Iota Chapter,Oregon Institute of Technology

Zeta Theta Chapter, Wagner College, NY

Beta Upsilon Chapter, Indiana State University

Eta Eta Chapter, Pittsburg State University, KS

Theta Omicron Chapter, University of Missouri-Kansas City

Zeta Zeta Chapter, University of Central Missouri

Delta Iota Chapter, University of Delaware

Nu Nu Chapter, Drexel University, PA

Theta Omicron Chapter, University of Missouri-Kansas City

Epsilon Alpha Chapter, Southern Arkansas University

Zeta Tau Chapter, Grand Valley State University, MI

thank you to all alpha Sigma alphaS who took the plunge for Special olympicS! #polarplunge

The cold never bothered us anyway!

FEATURES

Cover story, page 6:

“This is my Creed in Alpha Sigma Alpha”

16

6

18

SpRing 2014 ContEntS

DEpARTMEnTS

4 Editor’s desk

5 From the president

24 District news

27 ASAFoundation news

28 ASA palms

30 news & events

31 From the ASA archives

32 Woman of poise and purpose

12 2014-16 national Council slate

16 Thank you Alpha Sigma Alpha volunteers

18 My journey in Alpha Sigma Alpha

PHOTO CREDIT: Gamma IOTa CHaPTER; PICTuRED: allIsOn FRIEDman, nICOlE luPInETTI, KayTlyn JOHnsOn anD Ellyn HOROwITz.

PHOTO CREDIT: GREEKyEaRbOOK

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 3

Dear readers,Well, we made it. Winter is officially over, and we

have entered spring.

Was anyone else contemplating whether or not

spring would actually come? i must admit, there

were mornings when i just wasn’t sure. But here

we are, and the future is right in front of us. Let’s

kick off with celebrating the second issue commemorating the 100-year

anniversary of the Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha magazine.

in continuing with the four-issue celebration of Live it, Talk it, Dream it, Work

for it, we are ready to look ahead and celebrate our ability to shape our

lives with our words.

Spring 2014: Talk it.

in this issue, we will learn about the leaders of our organization who have

been nominated for the 2014-16 national council slate, we will learn how

to say the Creed of Alpha Sigma Alpha in sign language, and we will take you

down a path to find your Alpha Sigma Alpha journey.

Let’s go, shall we?

Mizpah,

Katie Matis Smith

Twitter and instagram @kmatis25

Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha (USPS 430-640) is

published quarterly by Alpha Sigma Alpha, 9002

Vincennes Circle, Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018.

Periodicals postage paid at Indianapolis, IN, and

additional mailing offices. Produced by Shelle Design

Inc., www.shelledesign.com. ©Alpha Sigma Alpha

Send address changes, death notices and business

correspondence to the national headquarters.

Address all editorial correspondence to the editor.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes (Form 3579) to

Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha, 9002 Vincennes Circle,

Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018. Printed in the USA.

DeaDlineSWinter Sept. 10

Spring Dec. 10

Summer March 10

Fall June 10

eDitorKatie Matis Smith, DH

contributing eDitorNancy I.Z. Reese, BU

national heaDQuarterS9002 Vincennes Circle

Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018

Phone: (317) 871-2920

Fax: (317) 871-2924

Email: [email protected]

Stay connecteD

www.facebook.com/AlphaSigmaAlphaSorority

www.twitter.com/asaHQ

www.youtube.com/user/AlphaSigmaAlphaNHQ

www.pinterest.com/AlphaSigmaAlpha

www.instagram.com/AlphaSigmaAlpha

Editor’S DESK

SHARE YOUR thouGhtSWe always welcome your comments—both

criticism and praise—about this publication. Email

[email protected] or send mail to:

Editor, Alpha Sigma Alpha

9002 Vincennes Circle

Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018

P hoenixFall 2013 | Volume 99

of

page 16

ServiceimmerSion

eXPerience How a trip to Hawaii

changed lives

introducing your 2013-14 Leadership consultants

ServiceimmerSion

eXPerience How a trip to Hawaii

changed lives

introducing your 2013-14 Leadership consultants

page 12

P hoenixof

Volume 100, Number 2

4 phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Spring 2014

Editor’S DESK

everyone’s heard the line that “sorority women love to talk” right?

We have conversation-based recruitment, sisterhood building and

social activities. Talk, talk, talk! in honor of our second installment

of the Phoenix’s centennial anniversary, let’s look at the talk it in “Live

it, talk it, dream it and work for it.”

When we hear talk it, i conclude that many of us take the position

that this represents what we tell others about our Sorority experience.

“Talk it up,” right? We use “talking it up” to promote our chapters,

our programs, membership recruitment and alumnae engagement.

All of our “talk it” is outward, persuasive speech, meant to convince

others that we have something good going on here, and they surely

don’t want to miss out on it. We develop talking points, fact sheets and

newsletter content to position or “talk us up” to our intended audience.

While this is positive to an extent, is it authentic communication?

We continue to talk it as we get to know each other through structured

or thematic sisterhood events, such as the kind where you draw a

question from a bowl and provide your individual response. The

questions can range from the downright silly, to favorite foods or

actors or asking you to disclose something more personal about

yourself. While this is also positive and fun to an extent, is it

authentic communication?

Perhaps by now you see what i’m hinting about. Talk it is essentially

about ourselves and our desired relationships with each other.

Sometimes we can focus on talking as an activity, with the outcome

of recruiting a new member, or participating in an activity such

as a sisterhood event or completing a sorority meeting. While we

learn facts and fun trivia or complete business, talking becomes

something we do as an action, not something we experience that

guides us to an authentic place.

it’s easy to go through the motions of talk it without ever getting

anywhere significant. it happens all the time in jobs, communities,

within chapters and even within our leadership. People can decide

not to invest in authentic talk it because it won’t bring them what is

individually wanted, may alter a friendship or simply isn’t something

they know how to do well. We, members of an association based upon

friendship which leads to sisterhood, a higher level of friendship,

must embrace authentic talk it, rather than talk around it, talk about it

not to it, or any other version of talk it that doesn’t hit the target of

authentic communication.

Live it perhaps, is more easily done than talk it. Without “talking it,” we

won’t ever be able to convince others of Alpha Sigma Alpha’s beauty,

greatness and its power - because we haven’t authentically experienced

it ourselves.

So, let’s get started today, and continue every day, with authentic talk

it. if you need a starting point, just give this article to the person with

whom you desire an authentic conversation. Tell them nora sent you!

in Alpha Sigma Alpha,

nora M. Ten Broeck

national President

Follow nora on Twitter @ntenbroeck!

Tell or show us how you #Talkit on Twitter or instagram!

BY nora M. tEn BroECk, BK | nATiOnAL pRESiDEnT

SHARE YOUR thouGhtS

FROM THE PrESidEnt

it’s easy to go through the motions of talk it without ever getting anywhere significant. it happens all the time in jobs, communities, within chapters and even within our leadership. ... [but] we, members of an

association based upon friendship that leads to sisterhood, a higher level of friendship, must embrace authentic talk

it, rather than talk around it... or any other version of talk it that doesn’t hit the target of authentic communciation.


FillMyTO

Days.....................This is my Creed in Alpha Sigma AlphaGamma iota Chapter, Rochester institute of Technology, nY, says

and signs the Creed of Alpha Sigma Alpha at each business meeting.

Chapter President Kayla Vodacek and Chapter Secretary Paige

Peckham share the reasoning and process for using sign language…

At the beginning of each business meeting, we stand and say the creed, just as every other chapter does. However, just as proudly as we say the creed in the spoken word, we also say it in American Sign Language (ASL).

We incorporate ASL because some of our sisters are either deaf or hard of hearing, as are many students at the Rochester Institute of Technology, the home to the National Technical Institute for the Deaf.

The moment students arrive on campus, they are exposed to this culture. Within a few weeks, everyone on campus knows how to sign their name and some basic conversational signs.

Our new members learn the creed throughout Advantage, and each week new members practice at business meeting alongside the older members. We have a dedicated special chairman, the Sister 2 Sister Chairman, who oversees educating sisters and new members about sign language and Deaf culture. She teaches applicable signs to the chapter weekly to promote communication between all sisters.

The main purpose for including ASL in our meetings and all of our events is to bond together, encourage our sisters to break barriers and blend cultures.

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BY PaiGE PECkhaM, GI and kayla VodaCEk, GI

FEATURing kaytlyn JohnSon, GI


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Some lucky people stumble upon a moment when a small experience or simple conversation can point them in a

direction that changes their lives. For Michelle Rupp, BL, that moment was in high school when a friend mentioned that she looked a lot like a local news anchor. Rupp, who wasn’t sure what she wanted to do with her life at that point, suddenly thought, “yeah, I could do that,” and she has been pursuing her passion for television news ever smce.

As a college student at University of Central Arkansas, Rupp

majored in journalism and loved it, but it was an internship at

KATV the ABC affiliate in Little Rock, AR, in her senior year

that really solidified her career choice. As an intern, Rupp would

follow reporters and photographers to the scene of a story, take

information, and later write the news script for the news anchor

to read. her experience, connections and creativity landed her a

full-time job at the station after graduation. With hard work and

talk itMIChELLE rUPP, news anchor

BY dina liBEratorE, ZN , Phoenix CONTRIbUTOR


determination, she worked her way up from assistant producer

to producer, responsible for helping to launch “Good Morning,

Arkansas,” a mid-morning variety show that focused on music,

fashion, cooking and other segments that catered to the stay-at-home

parent. During her two years working for that show, Rupp

had many incredible experiences including receiving a regional

eMMY nomination in the show’s first year and meeting celebrities

like Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, whom Rupp describes as

“gracious, humble and a delight to work with.”

When Rupp decided that she no longer wanted to work behind the

scenes, she transitioned from producer to reporter. in her eight

years in front of the camera, she reported on everything from

Arkansas politics to the devastation after a tornado outbreak. She

covered the heart-wrenching story of a mother who lost her child

to violence, but also witnessed the generosity of those willing to give

their last dollar to help someone else. “Being a reporter, you see

both the best in humanity and the worst of humanity.” Then there

were the fun stories, such as meeting dignitaries and celebrities like

former Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, harry Connick

Jr., LL Cool J and Kenny Chesney. Rupp received an edward R.

Murrow regional award for some of her severe weather coverage.

Through her television career, Rupp has never stopped challenging

herself. While reporting for KA TV news, Rupp earned her B.S. in

meteorology (2010) and again changed careers in 2011 from reporter

in Arkansas to news anchor at the CBS affiliate in Charlottesville, VA;

but Rupp attributes her success thus far to that first internship that

she had in college. “i can’t stress how important internships truly are.

They set such a strong foundation and are an excellent way to get your

foot in the door.” She is also a strong believer in networking as a key

to success. “network within our sisterhood. You may not always get a

job out of it, but each sister has advice and can offer mentorship that

will help, no matter what career field you choose.”

Rupp looks back on her time as a collegian and member of Alpha

Sigma Alpha with fondness and has taken what she learned in the

Sorority to guide her work each day. Rupp may talk it for a living, but

she also live[s] it, showing others the beauty, greatness and power of

Alpha Sigma Alpha through her leadership, values, relationships

and accomplishments.

“Network within our sisterhood. you may not always get a job out of it, but each sister has advice and can offer mentorship that will help, no matter what career field you choose.”

Top photo: Michelle Rupp and co-anchors prepare for the nightly broadcast. Middle photo: Michelle frequently creates packages on-site for daily broadcasts. Bottom photo: Michelle Rupp and co-anchor appear on local billboards promoting their broadcast.


Live it, Talk it, Dream it, Work for it. We are

members of a strong Sorority, and almost 100

years after that phrase was first coined in the

1916 Phoenix, we can say with pride that the

nominees for the 2014-16 national council

slate are incredible women who uphold the

ideals to “…effectively convince others of

its beauty, its greatness and its power.”

The women slated for the 2014-16 national council live it in their daily

lives by following our creed, evident through the application process.

They talk it in their mentorship and leadership roles in our national

organization. They dream it as reflected in their personal statements

to share high ideals of their vision for the growth of our organization.

They work for it as demonstrated by their volunteer roles within Alpha

Sigma Alpha and in their communities and professions.

The 2014-16 nominating committee was charged with reviewing

the Alpha Sigma Alpha 2012-15 Strategic Plan and the Alpha Sigma

Alpha governance documents to understand the role that national

council members serve in our organizational structure. These

documents also provided the nominating committee an outline of

the responsibilities of the national council and the national council’s

working relationship with the national headquarters staff and other

volunteers. Past national President Marianne Busch Bullock,BΘ, facilitated a training session for the committee outlining

the nominations procedure for the nominating committee.

national President nora M. Ten Broeck, BK, provided a summary

of projected national council activities for the next biennium,

highlighting continued work on the next strategic plan with a focus

on current trends, research and connecting with our members to

advance our organization. The nominating committee was asked

to consider the experiences of current leadership, support

of the volunteer structure updates and oversight needed for

organizational governance.

nominees completed an application that addressed their personal,

professional and Sorority experience. They submitted a resume

and wrote a personal statement outlining their reason for seeking

a national council position, their vision on key issues facing Alpha

Sigma Alpha, how they would promote the Alpha Sigma Alpha

Foundation and what they hoped to achieve by serving on national

council. nominees submitted endorsement letters from two members

and participated in an interview with members of the nominating

committee. The interview focused on the leadership qualities needed

to be in touch with our membership and ensure a successful national

council team with the skills and experience to grow our organization.

Leadership experience that promotes a working knowledge of

Sorority business was a key focus for the committee. Feedback from

members who have served in leadership roles for Alpha Sigma Alpha

and accountability reviews were considered. These slated candidates

will work for it with enthusiasm and passion for the long-term success

of the organization, with thoughtfulness, with genuine care and

concern for its members and with desire and willingness to

devote the time, energy and talent needed to fulfill their roles.

The nominating committee members were national volunteer

representatives erika Butts, EK, district 3 facilitator and Marylou

Kulaszewicz Wendzinski, DZ, academic excellence team leader; advisor

representative heide echelberger Mituta, DN-B, Delta nu-B Chapter

advisor; alumnae chapter representative Lori White Scott, EE, Kansas

City Alumnae Chapter member; collegiate chapter representative Julia

Sammur, eta eta Chapter president; and chairman Cindy Fundis

Smith, EE. The committee is pleased to announce the following

members have been placed on the slate of national council candidates

to be presented to the convention body in July:

inTRODUCing THE 2014-16 nATiOnAL COUnCiL SLATE

BY THE alPha SiGMa alPha noMinatinG CoMMittEE

nATiOnAL COUnCiL


Melissa Koch Merriam is

a graduate of emporia State

University, KS, holding a

bachelor’s degree in business

management. She served her

chapter as a standards board

member, risk management

chairman, vice president of

programming & ritual and

president. She was honored

by her collegiate chapter as

Alpha woman, outstanding senior, a Frost Fidelity Award nominee,

Panhellenic outstanding new member and Panhellenic community

service award. She was involved in many campus organizations,

including order of omega, GAMMA (Greeks Advocating

Mature Management of Alcohol) and Rho Lambda.

She served the Greater Kansas City Alumnae Chapter, Mo, as

president, Panhellenic delegate and webmaster. As Panhellenic

delegate, she served as grants and loans chairman and program

chairman. She also was a founder and first president of the

Fountain City Alumnae Chapter, KS.

Melissa served the national organization as a leadership consultant,

2000-01; Zeta Mu Chapter membership advisor, 2001-03; District

9 recruitment coaching team leader, 2002-03; District 9 facilitator,

2003-05; volunteer recruitment and placement team leader,

2005-07. Melissa has served on national council since 2007,

serving the roles of vice president of membership, 2007-10 and

2012-14, and vice president of operations, 2010-12. She served as

a facilitator at six emma Coleman Frost Leadership Development

institutes, presented workshops at national conventions and District

Day events, participated in extension presentations and served on

eight installation teams. Melissa was honored with the Agape

Award at the 2006 national convention & leadership conference.

Professionally, Melissa works as a development coordinator for

Sudden infant Death Syndrome Resources, inc. She lives in

overland Park, KS, with her husband, Andy, and her two sons.

Julie Wiley Levine graduated

from Longwood University, VA,

in 1993 with a bachelor’s degree

in elementary education. She

received a master’s of education

in school administration, higher

education from old Dominion

University, VA, in 1998 and an

educational specialist degree

from George Washington

University, DC, in educational

leadership and administration in 2006. Julie has completed the

coursework towards a doctorate in educational administration and

policy studies at George Washington University.

Julie served Alpha Chapter as president and treasurer. She was the

recipient of Longwood’s 1993 Greek woman of the year award and

the most outstanding student leader for the senior class of 1993.

After graduation, she traveled as a leadership consultant for the

national organization.

Julie served the national organization as convention delegate,

1992-12; epsilon eta Chapter advisor, 1994-07; formal rush

coaching team leader, 2002-06; District 4 facilitator, 2006-

10. Julie has served on national council since 2010 in the role

of vice president of membership. She has served as a facilitator

for numerous leadership development institutes and presented

workshops at conventions and District Day events. At the 2008

national convention, Julie was honored with the Agape Award. in

addition, she has served as a small group facilitator for the national

interfraternity Conference’s Undergraduate interfraternity institute

(UiFi) since 2010. Julie lives in Virginia Beach with her husband,

Marc, and her two children.

JULIE WILEY LEVINE, alPHa

MELISSA KOCh MErrIAM, EPsIlOn EPsIlOn

President Melissa Koch Merriam, EEVice President of Operations Julie Wiley Levine, A Vice President of finance Kelly McGinnis Morello, EKVice President of Communications Kim benson, DN-B

Vice President of Membership Heather Riley, ΦΦ Vice President of Membership Jessica bridwell, ZPVice President of Membership Kathryn Wolfington

Harth, EE


Kelly McGinnis Morello served her collegiate chapter

at Millersville University, PA,

as song/sunshine chairman,

treasurer, 10-year anniversary

chairman and standards chairman.

on campus, she served as vice

president of order of omega and

corresponding secretary of student

senate. She graduated in 1998 with

a bachelor’s degree in business

administration with a concentration in accounting. Upon graduation,

she traveled as a leadership consultant for the national organization.

Kelly graduated magna cum laude from Villanova University in 2005

with a master’s degree in human resource development and has earned

her Senior Professional in human Resources certification. She is

currently completing her MBA at Penn State Great Valley.

As a founding member of the Greater Valley Forge Alumnae Chapter,

Kelly has served as president, ritual chairman, alumnae chapter

Panhellenic delegate and currently serves as treasurer.

A national volunteer since 1999, she was epsilon Kappa membership

advisor in 1999; epsilon Kappa chapter advisor, 1999-04; province

director, 2000-02; District 2 Advantage coaching team leader, 2002-

04; District 2 district facilitator, 2004-07; volunteer recruitment

and placement team leader, 2007-08. Kelly has served on national

council since 2008 in the roles of vice president of membership

2008-12, and currently serves as vice president of finance. She has

also participated in extension presentations, served as a delegate at

six national conventions, facilitated several leadership development

institutes and has been a presenter at numerous District Day

events. Kelly was honored with the Agape Award at the 2006

national convention & leadership conference.

Professionally, Kelly is the vice president of human resources and

administration for DrugDev, inc., located in the greater Philadelphia

region. She is active in her community, serving as vice president for

the Philadelphia Society of People and Strategy and holds several chair

positions with the West Bradford home and School Association. She

resides in Romansville, PA, with her son and dog.

Kim Benson is a 1991 graduate

of GMi engineering &

Management institute (now

known as Kettering University),

Mi, holding a bachelor’s degree

in electrical engineering. She

served her collegiate chapter as

membership director, chapter

treasurer, Greek assembly/

Panhellenic representative and

house steward. As an alumna,

she has been a member of the nY Metro, Greater Dallas, Laurel

highlands, PA, and currently the Greater Jacksonville Alumnae

Chapters, FL. She has held various positions in these alumnae

chapters, including charter member, chapter president, treasurer,

secretary, editor, philanthropic chairman and convention delegate.

Kim has volunteered for the Sorority in a variety of roles since

1994, serving as province director, 1994 – 2000; District 7 finance

coaching team leader, 2002 – 03, District 7 facilitator, 2003 – 04;

and District 3 finance coaching team leader, 2004 – 06. Kim began

her service on national council in 2006 when she was elected vice

president of membership. She served as vice president of finance

and Foundation trustee (ex-officio), 2007-12, and currently serves

as vice president of operations. Kim has been a convention delegate

from 1996 to 2012 and a presenter at several district days and emma

Coleman Frost Leadership Development institutes. Professionally,

Kim works for UPS as a plant engineering manager. She currently

resides in Jacksonville, FL, where she is involved with the United

Way of northeast Florida and Society of Women engineers First

Coast Section.

Heather Riley joined the Phi Phi

Chapter at northwest Missouri

State University where she served

her chapter as membership

director and standards committee

member. She was invited to

join the order of omega and

participated in several other

campus organizations.

KELLY MCGINNIS MOrELLO, EPsIlOn KaPPa

hEAThEr rILEY, PHI PHI

KIM BENSON, DElTa nu-b

nATiOnAL COUnCiL


heather graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in

chemistry and a minor in mathematics. Following graduation,

she was accepted to the graduate chemistry program at iowa

State University, where she earned her master’s degree in

inorganic chemistry.

heather has served the national organization in numerous roles.

She was a convention project team member for two conventions

and an emma Coleman Frost Leadership Development institute

facilitator. She also has participated in extension presentations,

chapter installations and District Day presentations. She served

as District 9 district meeting coordinator, 2010-12. and was an

education coaching team member, 2006-08. She is past president

of the Greater Kansas City Alumnae Chapter, Mo, and also served

as secretary, treasurer and convention delegate for that alumnae

chapter. She joined national council in 2012 and currently serves

as the vice president of membership.

She lives in Kansas City, Mo, with her husband and four cats. She

is passionate about animal welfare and is a long-time volunteer at the

humane Society of Greater Kansas City. She enjoys sports and crafting.

Professionally, heather is director of the illig Family Foundation.

Jessica Bridwell is a graduate

of the University of Southern

Colorado (now known as

Colorado State University-

Pueblo), holding a bachelor’s

degree in marketing and a master’s

degree in business administration.

She is a founding member of

Zeta Pi Chapter, which she served

as a member of the installation

committee, vice president of public relations & recruitment and

chapter president. While in college, Jessica was honored by her

chapter as member of the year for two consecutive years and was

heavily involved in student government and student life. After

graduation, she traveled as a leadership consultant for the Sorority.

A volunteer since 2001, Jessica has served the national organization as

District 9 Advantage coaching team leader, 2001-04; Zeta Zeta Chapter

recruitment advisor, 2001-05, and colony/chapter development

coordinator for Theta Rho Chapter, 2011-13. in addition, she was

a member of the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation Board of Trustees

from 2004-13, serving as chairman from 2008-11. Jessica has

participated in several extension presentations and served on four

installation teams, facilitated at numerous emma Coleman Frost

Leadership Development institutes and presented at multiple District

Day events in various districts.

Jessica serves the Albuquerque Metro Area Alumnae Panhellenic as

the treasurer and Alpha Sigma Alpha delegate. She is a member of

the development team for the Circle of Sisterhood Foundation.

Jessica resides in Albuquerque, nM, and is the assistant director

of communications at Albuquerque Academy.

Kathryn Wolfington Harth

graduated magna cum laude from

emporia State University, KS, with

a bachelor’s degree in elementary

education, and from the University

of Colorado Denver with a master’s

degree in informational and

learning technologies. Kathryn

served the epsilon epsilon Chapter

as secretary, housing manager and

president and was involved in many

campus organizations. her leadership was recognized through the

Ruth Schillenger outstanding Sorority Woman of the Year Award, the

A Cappella Choir outstanding Member Service Award and the Rho

Lambda Leadership Award. As an alumna, she has been a member

of the Lawrence, KS; Denver, Co; and Capital City (Topeka, KS)

Alumnae Chapters.

Kat has volunteered for the Sorority in a variety of roles, serving as

the epsilon epsilon Chapter membership advisor, 2006; district

meeting coordinator, 2003-07; convention event team leader,

2006-08; District 9 facilitator, 2008-present. She has served as

a facilitator at the emma Coleman Frost Leadership Development

institute and presenter at District Day. She has served as a delegate

at five national convention & leadership conferences and in 2008

was a recipient of the Agape Award at the 2008 national convention

& leadership conference.

Kat currently works as a meeting planner at Kansas State University

and volunteers on the K-State Dance Advisory Council and for the

KAThrYN WOLfINGTON hArTh, EPsIlOn EPsIlOn

JESSICA BrIDWELL, zETa PI


VOLUnTEER thank you

Thank you, volunteers!

Alpha Sigma Alpha honors our volunteers during National Volunteer Appreciation Month in April 2014. We send our sincerest gratitude for those who have served and continue to serve in their volunteer roles.

We have embarked on an exciting time in Alpha Sigma Alpha’s history.

There are changes that have taken place in 2013 showing us incredible

promise and dedication to the sustainability of our Sorority. in fall

2013 and spring 2014, we refreshed our advisory board structure,

better aligned our district leadership structure to meet the needs

of our collegians and advisors, and are currently working on a new

training system for all volunteers!

“Our volunteers give back to Alpha Sigma Alpha out of love for the organization, for what the organization stands and to help pay it forward to the next generation of members. Alpha Sigma Alpha is a truly lucky organization to have such wonderful volunteers.” – nikki Kawalec, ZU, volunteer management team leader

We are pleased to announce the following updates and accomplishments

of collegians and volunteers during this transition:

43 percent of chapters have a completely full advisory board (six core positions)

37 percent of chapters have four to five filled positions

80 percent of our chapters have a majority of their boards filled

81 percent of chapter advisors are Alpha Sigma Alpha members

19 percent of chapter advisors are non-member advisors

35 is the average age of an advisor

82 percent of district leadership teams are full

273 volunteers donated to the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation for the 2012-13 fiscal year


Thank you, volunteers!

Are you interested in volunteering, but you

do not know where to get started? Check out

the following breakdown of positions Alpha

Sigma Alpha offers and consider how they

may enhance your professional and personal

goals. If something interests you, feel free

to visit us at: AlphaSigmaAlpha.org to

complete a Volunteer Interest form or

contact Laura Whitney, BS, volunteer &

alumnae coordinator, at (317) 871-2920.

Chapter-level positions: Provide a very hands-on practical application of skills. You will have the opportunity to mentor collegiate women and work directly with the operations of the chapter.

Chapter advisor

Membership education advisor

Membership commitment advisor

Financial advisor

Recruitment advisor

Social responsibility advisor

Faculty advisor

housing advisor

District-level positions: Provide facilitation and overarching supervision of collegiate officers and advisors in a very specific subject.

District facilitator

Advisory board liaison

Alumnae liaison

Communications liaison

Panhellenic liaison

Meeting team

Finance leader

Recruitment leader

Social responsibility leader

Membership commitment leader

The following opportunities are by national appointment:

Task forces: Exist to develop a new project or program for the Sorority or to address a specific need. examples include but are not limited to: alumnae leadership task force and the recruitment resource task force.

National coaching teams: Exist to provide support to chapters with a specific need in an area of expertise. examples include but are not limited to: national ritual coaching team. Project teams: Exist to work on ongoing projects for the Sorority. examples include but are not limited to: individual awards project team and academic excellence project team.

Standing committees: Exist to work on ongoing projects or to meet ongoing needs of the organization. examples include but are not limited to: convention event team.

Special event committees: Exist to work on a special project related to a specific event. examples include but are not limited to: convention bylaws committee.

Management teams: Exist to oversee and manage an ongoing process for the Sorority. examples include but are not limited to: volunteer management team. Delegations: Exist to represent and vote on behalf of the organization. examples include but are not limited to: nPC delegation.

resource groups: Exist to assist with specific parts of a project; comprised of individuals with special skills relating to the project area. examples include but are not limited to: Phoenix contributors and extension presentation volunteers.

foundation volunteers: Exist to assist the Foundation with donor cultivation and recognition. Examples include but are not limited to: Foundation ambassador.


ALUMnA ExpERiEnCE

I got my first job… Congratulations! First, take your time adjusting to your new professional role. Use what you learned in your collegiate

experience to take charge and have confidence. once you are settled in, contact us to see how we can help add to that resume of experience.

I am still job searching… You are not alone. Connect with area alumnae and alumnae chapters letting them know you are in the

market. if they don’t know, they can’t send the opportunities your way. if you are interviewing,

be sure to relate your sorority experience to those real-life professional skills. Conflict

management, public speaking, you name it. You got it from working with your sisters.

I am going to continue my education… Rock on. The academics will be tough, but there is always time to continue to build relationships

professional and personally. Use your social aim to get your name noticed and your intellectual

aim to reach your academic goals.

I want to just hang out… Check out our option to join or start an alumnae association.

You found a sister in the area that likes yoga? Awesome. Register with us so others can find you! Associations are more social in nature and can serve a specific purpose

that fits the needs of the group.

I want a little structure and/or to have some responsibility… Alumnae chapters are a great way to engage with other sisters in a structured environment. There are

opportunities to run for officer or chairman positions that have specific responsibilities in

the chapter. From holiday social events to more formal meetings, there are plenty of options.

I want to be engaged in my community and give back… We can help you give back and connect you with the local Girls on the Run

program or alumnae chapter that participates in service and philanthropic events.

I JUST GrADUATEDI AM A fEW YEArS OUT Of COLLEGE

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My journey in Alpha Sigma AlphaAlpha Sigma Alpha is dedicated to

continuing lifetime engagement

for women, regardless of what

journey they choose in life. Our

values stand true to developing

women of poise and purpose not

only in our collegiate years but

thereafter. We ask you to consider

where you are in your journey and

how the sorority experience can

help you along the way.


I am a new mom, and it’s time for some relaxation with my sisters… An alumnae chapter or association is meant to provide a

space where you can enjoy some time to focus on Alpha Sigma Alpha and the benefits of meeting sisters; or if you need support as a new mom, this can be the place. You may have sisters wanting the same support as

you, but you have to reach out first to let us know how to connect you.

I want to bring my significant other and let them know how cool Alpha Sigma Alpha is… We do too. Alumnae events can be social, and your significant other can certainly attend

if the chapter chooses. Who knows, they may have some shared interests and start

something of their own.

I don’t have enough time or energy to commit… You can choose to be involved with national volunteer opportunities, an alumnae

chapter or association. Choose what is right for you and what you need in life right now. if you need to have a less structured approach, then an association may be best for you. if you want more structure or the opportunity to work with others,

a chapter or volunteer role may be perfect.

I don’t have a skill the supervisor is looking for… it’s time to get to work. Whether it is a

hard or soft skill, an alumnae chapter leadership position or volunteer position may be the perfect

answer. We can connect you with the local alumnae chapter (or help you get one started)

and/or narrow down the best volunteer position with the Sorority to help you gain that skill

needed. Also, did you know alumnae can attend educational programming like District Day and the national convention & leadership

conference? We can provide some education to help you advance.

I need volunteer or community service experience to compliment my professional

background… Yes you do! There are plenty of opportunities to give back within Alpha Sigma Alpha. You can mentor our collegiate women, work with national task forces and groups or

volunteer at a district or local level, or volunteer for our philanthropic partners. Find what makes you passionate and call or email us to see how we

can help you give back in a purposeful way.

I need experience in supervision or advising… our women need you too. Collegiate advisors are a top priority of the organization. As an advisor, you will have a direct impact on the lives of our women as they learn to run an organization,

create lasting friends and develop persistence.

I want to give back with my time… Your wisdom and insight are needed.

Research our alumnae chapters, associations and volunteer opportunities. You have potential to give back in a variety of ways

that meet you where you are in life.

I want to give back to furthering education… educational programming and benefits are key

to advancing our organization. The Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation has plenty of

donor opportunities that directly impact our membership and their development.

Visit their website to learn more about where your money goes and the impact it has.

I need to spend some time with my sisters but it has been a while… What benefit of

alumnae membership speaks to you the most? Socially connecting, mentoring other sisters,

advising… you name it we can find it. We would love to keep you busy and let you have a little fun while doing it. Visit our website to see what we have been up to, and how

you can connect with sisters again.

For more information about how Alpha Sigma Alpha can aid you in your journey, visit us at www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org/Alumnae/Volunteer.For more information about how Alpha Sigma Alpha can aid you in your journey, visit us at www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org/Alumnae/Volunteer.

I AM rETIrEDI AM LOOKING fOr ThAT PrOMOTION

I hAVE A fAMILY

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2

2

2

3

3

3


Social media seems to be everywhere. We use terms like “tweet,” “like” and “share” almost every day and not the way our Founders would have used them in 1901.

Alpha Sigma Alpha members are no strangers to social media.

Sorority communications have expanded to embrace the

exciting, interactive possibilities that can only come from

having a more direct line to our members every day.

We love to see the pictures, hear the stories and get

our news right away.

But it is also true that not all our members use social

media, and some members are curious to know: how

does social media fit into the bigger Alpha Sigma Alpha

communications picture?

not just for the young’unsLet’s start with one of the biggest and oldest

misconceptions: social media is a place where you

will only engage with younger members. it is true

that the youngest folks are most engaged online, but

the other age ranges aren’t far behind them.

According to research from the Pew internet & American

Life Project, 73 percent of all adults online are using

social networking sites, including 65 percent of adults

in the 50-64 age range. Backing that up, the Global

Web index Study reported that Twitter’s fastest growing

age demographic was 55-64 year-olds, which grew

by 79 percent over the 2012-13 year.

Clearly, the party is online, and everyone wants to be there.

Although not all of our members are stalking our

Facebook and Twitter feeds (yet!), our fan numbers

and their engagement increase steadily each year.

While there is room to grow, recent studies show

that our members are well engaged, and we

are above the median for medium-sized

nonprofit organizations.

What does all of this mean? Alpha Sigma Alpha is in a good place.

We may never have 100 percent of our members on social media, but

those members who are online want to engage with their sorority, and

we want to engage with them. That’s the foundation for a beautiful

(online) relationship.

facebook, twitter and instagram – oh my!it isn’t just the social media population that is growing.

The social media platform has been growing too.

Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin might have been

the start, but Pinterest, instagram and Vine weren’t

far behind. in fact, new social media environments

pop up every day (anyone heard of oovoo yet?) The

key to using social media successfully is knowing what

platforms matter to our members.

Based on the Pew research, 42 percent of online adults

use multiple social networking sites, but Facebook is still

the favorite at 71 percent. in fact, among those who use

only one site, 84 percent say it’s Facebook for them.

our members have also shown a preference for Facebook,

with a 12 percent growth from 2012 to 2013. But we continue to

meet with our members across all of the popular platforms

and keep our ears open for however they want to

engage next.

Social media is an ongoing conversationSocial media offers our members a new way to engage

with Alpha Sigma Alpha. While the Alpha Sigma Alpha

website and the Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha deliver a one-way

platform of powerful stories and important information,

social media creates a two-way dialogue between you and

Alpha Sigma Alpha.

it’s hard to predict what the future may hold when

it comes to communications and technology, but

what we can predict is that Alpha Sigma Alpha will

continue to offer ways for you to be a part of the

conversation and growth of our organization.

Step into social mediaSOCiAL MEDiA

BY MarCia PuCCi JaCquEttE, DN-A , VICE PRESIDENT OF COMMUNICATIONS

Medium nonprofit:

For purposes of this study, a medium

nonprofit is defined as one with 25,000 to 100,000 members.

Social media:Virtual (online)

communities in which people create, share, and/or exchange information and

ideas. Unlike traditional media, it is highly

interactive.

Engagement:The amount by

which readers act as participants instead of just

viewers. Typically, this is measured by how much the content is “Liked”

or “Shared.”

Platform:

A unique technology on which other products

are built; a category of products with a common technical

foundation.


75%

60%

45%

30%

15%

0%

Where did you hear THAT?

Phoe

nix

Face

book

Twitt

er

Insta

gram

Vine Pint

eres

t

Linke

dIn

Who is using social media?

18-29year olds

90%

year olds

30-49

78%

year olds

65+

46%

year olds

50-64

65%

Reference: Pew Research Center’s Internet Project Survey, July 18-Sept. 30, 2013

Reference: Alpha Sigma Alpha By the Numbers Report 2012-13

15,000

12,000

9,000

6,000

3,000

0

Face

book

Linke

dIn

Pinte

rest

VineTwitt

er

Insta

gram

Reference: Alpha Sigma Alpha By the Numbers Report 2012-13

75%

60%

45%

30%

15%

0%

Face

book

Linke

dIn

Pinte

rest

Twitt

er

Insta

gram

Reference: Pew Research Center’s Internet Project Survey, July 18-Sept. 30, 2013Reference: Pew Research Center’s Internet R renc Pew searc Ce s Int net Project Survey July 18-Sept 30 2013ct vey y Sep 0 3

Where are most users?

Reference: Alpha Sigma Alpha By eren Alp Sig Alp By the Numbers Report 2012-13e N be po 0 3

Where are ΑΣΑs?

2013

npC annual MEEtinG

National Panhellenic Conference delegations, executive directors, inter/national presidents, editors and staff gathered Oct. 10-13 at the Los Angeles Airport Marriott for the 2013 annual meeting. Meeting participants reflected on the accomplishments within the Conference during the past year and looked forward to the ongoing commitment of sorority advancement in the next biennium.

Registration opened for the meeting oct. 10,

and nPC hosted a “family reunion” throughout

the day to allow attendees to meet one another

or catch up before working sessions began.

GreekYearbook captured photos and helped with videography

throughout the meeting for upcoming nPC projects. The nPC

Foundation sold sunflowers next to the registration area, which

allowed a continuous stream of donors to contribute to the

Foundation throughout the annual meeting.

Social media was introduced as a positive vehicle for nPC

ambassadorship during a short workshop lead by nPC Marketing

and events Manager Julia Schenk, Kappa Kappa Gamma, during

dinner oct. 10. Throughout the three-day meeting, attendees

used Twitter, lnstagram and Facebook to share exciting moments

and memorable photo opportunities from the meeting using the

hashtag #nPCAM13. it was an efficient and

fun way to communicate meeting activities to

nPC audiences near and far.

Friday, oct. 11, began with breakfast meetings for

committees. Then 2011-13 nPC Chairman Jane

h. Sutton, Alpha xi Delta, opened the 2013

annual meeting general session. She began by

welcoming attendees from local College and Alumnae Panhellenics

present at the business meeting. She also recognized several women

who are retiring from their delegations for their service to nPC.

The Conference then reviewed several legislative items.

Friday events included the vendor exhibits, which this year featured

35 companies. executive directors and inter/national presidents

dedicated two hours of their schedules to visit the vendors, who

annual meeting rECaP

pREpARED BY JEnnifEr WEtzEl, Pi BEta Phi, AnD SydnEy WillMann, zEta tau alPha, NATIONAL PANHELLENIC CONFERENCE MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS INTERNS


also joined meeting attendees for lunch. nine sponsors supported

the meeting, including three diamond-level sponsors: Billhighway,

herff Jones - Greek Division and MJ insurance, inc.

The second general session Friday night incorporated the first

“family meeting,” which provided updates from the Measurable

outcomes Committee and Panhellenics Committee on

accomplishments, upcoming work and trends. This session

concluded with the memorial service led by Carol Coordt,

Kappa Delta, honoring the sorority women who passed away

during the biennium.

Guest speakers took top billing Saturday, oct. 12. The editors

enjoyed a fun photography activity through the hotel while the

nPC delegations, inter/national presidents and executive directors

attended a town hall meeting with Tim Burke and John Pryor, who

shared information on trends in higher education.

Audrey Jeager, Ph.D., associate professor of education at north

Carolina State University, presented the keynote address at the

Alumnae Achievement Luncheon. She emphasized the need

for women in the fields of science, technology, engineering and

mathematics. Jaeger received the Women in higher education

Achievement Award from the nPC Foundation. in addition,

nPC presented the Coachella Valley Alumnae Panhellenic, CA,

with the outstanding Alumnae Panhellenic award. nPC also

recognized the group as the first honoree into the Carol Coordt

Circle of excellence for being named outstanding Alumnae

Panhellenic during two consecutive bienniums.

During the closing general session, the Conference finalized

legislation discussion and voting, led by Legislative Committee

Chairman Dana Katz, Alpha epsilon Phi. nPC Foundation

President Janet Dodson, Alpha Sigma Tau, recapped the

Foundation’s fund raising, grants and notable donations

over the past year.

Representatives from 10 different member organizations—including

nPC “first man” Bob Sutton—came to the stage to present gifts to

the Conference. Gifts included significant contributions to the

Something of Value program, nPC staff professional development

and a contribution to the nPC internship program.

Jane Sutton concluded her tenure as chairman with the state of

the Conference address and installation of the 2013-15 executive

Committee, led by Jean M. Mrasek, Chi omega. her speech and

the installation were broadcast via a live webstream for the first

time. in her final address as nPC chairman, Jane Sutton said,

“There is a reason we have existed as a conference for 111 years,

and i know your belief in the power of sorority will lead you to

ensure the Conference survives and thrives for future generations

of women. Thank you for allowing me to have made this journey

with you.”

After a reception celebrating Phi Sigma Sigma’s centennial, the

2013 annual meeting concluded with a closing banquet and

reception Saturday evening. Pete Smithhisler, president and

Ceo of the north-American interfraternity Conference, gave

the invocation.

NPC presented awards to the following people: Dan Shaver of Affinity Consultants received the lnterfraternal

Partner Award.

Dave Conner received the Outstanding Panhellenic Advisor award sponsored by Alpha Chi Omega.

Jean Scott, Pi Beta Phi, former NPC chairman, received the Distinguished Service Award.

Finally, Jane Sutton passed the gavel to Jean Mrasek, the 2013-

15 nPC chairman. Mrasek thanked her family, Chi omega and

Panhellenic sisters for their love and support. in her first speech

as nPC chairman, she explained that “Collaboration is essential

to accomplish our goals and implement the strategic plan.” She

added that collaboration is a major focus in the 2013-15 biennium.

Following dinner, the 2013-15 executive Committee welcomed

attendees to a dessert reception.

The 2013 annual meeting allowed for reflection, celebration and

discussion. it also provided attendees with a renewed vision of

the nPC mission and goals, which can be attained by advancing

sorority together.

Alpha Sigma Alpha in attendance of the NPC Meeting from left to right, top row: Second Alternate Delegate Cindy Kelley, BP, Executive Director Krystal Geyer Slivinski, GR, First Alternate Delegate Sue Zorichak, BB, Third Alternate Delegate Eleanor Borbas Williams, A. From left to right, bottom: National President Nora M. Ten Broeck, BK, Delegate Lynne Rachal Chambers, A.


1. Alumnae and collegians of Beta nu

Chapter from Murray State University,

KY, volunteered at a local nursing home

over the holidays. The chapter plans

regular service and social events with

local alumnae.

2. Alumnae of the Beta Phi Chapter

from the University of Wisconsin-

Stout held a 50-year reunion over

the summer in Wisconsin. Alumnae

of the chapter, currently dormant,

try to get together annually.

3. Alumnae of the Gamma Mu Chapter

from Adrian College, Mi, held their

annual Christmas and holiday party

in December 2013. Pictured, back left

to right: Janice Wolf harmon, nicole

Towle Dudus, Rebecca Flowers, Kristen

Mickey Chinery, Stefanie Georges, Tara

Dell Andrews and Lara Mossa Stump.

Front left to right: Melissa LaMay

hughes, Angela hardacre Ferguson

and Vanessa Lozzi.

4. Members of the Kansas City Alumnae

Chapter, Mo, get together every month

for lunch and a game of bridge. Pictured

from left to right: Joann hughes Moore,

BS, Virginia Bohn hamble, EE, Marty

Woolsey McKenna, ZZ, Johanna haag

Gardner, ZZ, helen Taylor McGuire,

ZZ, and Marg Thomas Puckett, HH.

DiSTRiCT nEWS

1

3 4

2


5. Members of the Tidewater Alumnae

Chapter, VA, hosted a Toys for Tots

drive in December 2013 and invited

members of the Marine Corps Reserve

to attend a dinner and collect the toys.

Pictured: Julie Wiley Levine, A, Theresa

Sprague, DK, Rebecca Denny, EH, erika

Whitfield, ZU, Shelby St. Gelais, EH,

Crystal Ricks Colohan, A, Misty Young,

DR, Liz Council Cummings, A, and

Katie harrison hardee, A.

6. Members of the Midnight Sun Alumnae

Chapter, AK, hosted an alumnae holiday

party in December 2013, and even

invited a furry friend to enjoy the

festivities! Pictured back row from left

to right: Paloma Field, ΘD, Amanda

Doughty, ΘD, nancianna Schaaper, ZΦ,

Aisha Merced, ΘD, Demonica Chong,

ΘD, Katie Galligan, ΘD. Front row left

to right: Katie Adrian, ZC, Kimberly

Kluckman, ΘD, Kelsey Rodriguez, ΘD.

7. The Delta eta Chapter from DePaul

University, iL, held its annual Murder

Mystery gala in fall 2013. The chapter

invites student organizations and

students at DePaul University to

attend a night of dinner, dancing

and games all while playing a role

in the night’s murder mystery.

5 6

7 7


8. The epsilon eta Chapter from Virginia

Wesleyan University participated in the

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Light

The night®.

9. The Zeta Kappa Chapter from

Minnestota State University, Mankato,

hosted its annual Family Day in fall 2013.

Parents and siblings of members attended

the event and were able to partake in

many fall activities.

10. The Tulsa Alumnae Chapter, oK,

held their annual Christmas meeting

in December and welcomed new faces

as they celebrated one of Alpha Sigma

Alpha’s exemplars.

11. The Zeta Zeta Chapter from the

University of Central Missouri held

its inaugural Freezin’ for a Reason flag

football tournament in February 2014

to raise money and embrace the cold

temperatures for Special olympics.

DiSTRiCT nEWS

8

10

9

11


FOUnDATiOn nEWS

HeRItAGe SOCIetyThere is still time to become a member of the heritage Society for fiscal

year 2014. To do so, make your donation at www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org/AlphaSigmaAlphaFoundation by May 31, 2014. The

heritage Society honors donors who give $250/year or

more unrestricted funds to the Foundation. Members

of this giving society receive a recognition pin.

The Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation cannot wait to see

you in San Antonio! There are many events to look

forward to, brought to you by the Foundation…

2014 NAtIONAL CONVeNtION & LeADeRSHIP CONFeReNCe FOuNDAtION ReCePtION Ruby Circle heritage Society members, annual giving of $500 or more, will be

recognized at the invitation–only Foundation reception held during the national

convention & leadership conference this summer. Donors with lifetime giving of

$1,901 or more will also be invited.

tHe CHAIRMAN’S AFFAIRThe Chairman’s Affair is a private reception for donors who have donated more

than $10,000 in lifetime giving.

tHe ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA FOuNDAtION ReD tIe DINNeRAll national convention & leadership conference attendees are invited to the

Red Tie Dinner on Friday, July 11, 2014. Please wear red in support of the

Foundation, and together we will celebrate love, loyalty and lifelong giving.

ReD tICKet RAFFLeThe famous red ticket raffle returns to the national convention & leadership

conference in 2014. To donate items to the red ticket raffle, please drop them off at

the registration table on-site. Suggested items to donate to the red ticket raffle include:

• Gift baskets • Alpha Sigma Alpha merchandise • Accessories, bags and purses • Jewelry


The word palm means tribute, honor or praise. Alpha Sigma Alpha gives palms to alumnae and collegians for their successes and milestones.

Celebrating a personal, professional or volunteer success? Tell us about it! Send your success stories to the editor at [email protected].

ASAPalms

ASA PalMS

epsilon Phi hannah Combs, president of Big Brothers

Big Sisters at indiana University, was honored as the iU Big

Sister of the Year by Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Central

indiana. hannah, pictured on the far left, is a senior majoring

in tourism, hospitality and event management.

Zeta Phi Miriam Schmidt,

pictured on the

right, was awarded

the Lincoln Academy

of illinois Student

Laureate Award,

which is awarded to

an outstanding senior

from an illinois higher

education institution.

Lincoln Student

Laureates are honored for their overall excellence in both curricular

and co-curricular activities. Miriam will represent illinois institute

of Technology at a gathering at the illinois house of Representatives

where she will be given a medallion from the governor.

theta tau Madison Mikhail is the founder and president of

oneLiFe, a nonprofit organization that connects individuals to

world needs, reliable nonprofits and service opportunities through

the process See, heLP, TeLL.

A biology student at Capital University, oh, Madison is

interested in pursuing a career in public health. Because of her

inspirational and motivating journey in creating oneLiFe, she

gave a presentation, The Charity Disconnect, at TeDxYouth@

Columbus in fall 2013. in the talk, Madison shares her passion

for giving people a place to start in connecting to charities.


Gamma Pi Dr. Julie Custer Conner,

ed. D., recently wrote a book Dreams to Action

Trailblazer’s Guide. The book helps you discover

your dream, define your purpose and create

tangible goals. Julie empowers you with the

skills and tools needed to transform your

dream into a spectacular plan of action.

Julie received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Missouri,

where she joined Gamma Pi Chapter to combat shyness. She taught in public

schools and received a doctoral degree in educational leadership. She is now a

speaker, workshop presenter, educator and consultant. She has guided businesses,

organizations, school districts and churches as they create meaningful vision and

mission statements aligned with their purpose and goals for more than 30 years.

She is a student teaching field supervisor at the University of Missouri-Kansas

City and steers courageous conversations about inclusion and diversity.She is

a passionate advocate of at-risk youth and families and provides goal-setting

strategy training and workshops in Kansas City’s urban core.

theta Rho Aurora “Rori” ortiz landed an

internship in Washington, DC at the office of U.S.

Rep. Mac Thornberry, R-Texas, where she will

work during spring 2014. Rori has been a

West Texas A&M University Woman of the Year

nominee and is the recipient of the WTAMU

Student Government Leadership Scholarship

for the past three years.

Zeta Omicron Libby Rahe was

crowned the

Muskingum

University, oh,

homecoming

queen in

fall 2013.


nEWS AnD EVEntS

West Chester University, pA, expansionAlpha Sigma Alpha has been invited to colonize at West Chester University in West Chester, PA, in fall 2014. We are seeking passionate and dedicated alumnae to be advisors for our next chapter.

email [email protected] to express your interest in volunteering. Visit www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org/Alumnae/Volunteer/InterestForm to formally apply for a volunteer position.

Alpha Alpha Chapter Centennial celebrationThe Alpha Alpha Chapter from Miami University, oh, was installed on nov. 27, 2014. The women who founded the chapter were known for their poise, good scholarship and involvement on campus.

This summer, Alpha Sigma Alpha celebrates the centennial of Alpha Alpha Chapter at Miami University in oxford, oh, on Saturday, June 21, 2014.

This event will include a centennial luncheon, open house, archival display, an anniversary ceremony and events associated with the

Miami University Alumni Weekend. Family and guests are welcome to join all festivities. To register, visit the Miami University Alumni Association Alumni Weekend website at www.miamialum.org/AlphaSigmaAlpha.

Questions regarding the celebration can be directed to Alpha Alpha alumna Laura Gadbau Laclede at [email protected].


Mary Goeke Backsman, AA – National president, 1964-70Mary Goeke Backsman, AA, a lifelong ohioan, served the Alpha Alpha Chapter at Miami University, oh, for many years before her election as national president at the 1964 national Convention in Ashville, nC. After two terms as president, she served as the nPC delegate for Alpha Sigma Alpha and then later served nPC for six years. She is the recipient of the Wilma Wilson Sharp Award and the evelyn G. Bell Award.

from the archiveswww.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 31

9002 Vincennes Circle | Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018

i learned from amazing and pioneering women leaders who generously shared their wisdom, experience and insight, which prepared me for my life. i learned to be kind and gracious under pressure and was inspired to be an example worthy of being followed.

our open motto helped guide me on my journey into the entrepreneurial world launching a publishing company that now boasts a nine-time award winning book series: The Refractive Thinker®, a collaboration of doctoral scholars from around the world who contributed their cutting edge doctoral research.

Recently i was proud to be selected as a collaborating author for the international best seller, The expert Success Solution, creating the solution for 22 of the most critical and personal and professional challenges encountered by men and women around the globe.

Aspire, Seek, Attain is how i choose to live every day of my life.

Dr. Cheryl Kulikowski-Lentzepsilon Beta alumnaUniversity of illinois

WOMAN OF Poise and Purpose

The Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha; Spring 2014

Documents

Transcript of The Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha; Spring 2014