National Vice President, Collegiate Chapters

Christine Bruns has resigned her position

as she joins husband Rob during his two-year

deployment to South Korea. Region 8 Regional

Officer Jessica Chichester has been appointed

to serve the remainder of Christine’s term, which

concludes in 2015. Alice Bermann has been

named as the new Region 8 RO to succeed

Jessica. We already miss Christine and thank her

for her service to SAI.

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NEB and RO Update

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WHAT’S INSIDE

GREGORY DICKENS Publications

Manager

RUTH SIEBER JOHNSONExecutive Director

CONTACT US

828.251.0606

nh@sai-national.org

sai-national.org

Introducing SAI’s Newest Chapter, Mu Kappa

Introducing the newest chapter in the Upsilon A Province: Mu Kappa. The chapter was installed at Western Illinois University in Macomb, IL, on Saturday, Nov. 16. National Vice President, Extension

Marcie Richardson was the presiding officer. Upsilon A Province Officer Clare Malott assisted with the installation. It was a dreary rainy day, but it couldn’t overshadow the

glowing excitement from all of those present. Members from Lambda Mu, Beta Gamma, Psi, Sigma Alpha, and the Bloomington/Normal Alumnae Chapter were present to support these women on their new journey as a chapter. Chapter Adviser Dr. Heather Zosel was also initiated as a patroness member. — Upsilon A Province Officer Clare Malott

Mu Kappa members in alphabetical order: Ashli Augsburger, Hanna Becker, Samantha Bivens, Mariah Chapdelaine, Ashton Driscoll, Samantha Evans, Janelle Gerstein, Mia Iliopoulos, Lydia Lewis, Kristen Mahannah, Stephanie Martin, Emily Nation, Brittany Robertson, Taylor Stone, Julie Winter, and Victoria Zamora.

The Urbana Alumnae Chapter visited the SAI National Archives at the University of Illinois in October and spoke with Director Ellen Swain. She explained that the three-story, temperature-and humidity-controlled vault

contains hundreds of boxes from many diverse fields of study, as well as artifacts of student life. “The Sigma Alpha Iota Archives are an invaluable research resource at the University of Illinois Archives’ Student Life and Culture Archival Program,” Swain said. “We welcome all SAI members to explore the archives holdings either by visiting or checking out the online finding aids. We also welcome materials from student and alumnae chapters for deposit in Archives! Just get in touch: eswain@illinois.edu.”

Update on the SAI Archives

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Zeta — Butler University, Indianapolis, IN This year the Zetas will increase service activity and awareness of the arts throughout the Butler and Indianapolis communities in many new ways. A service project is underway to begin volunteer performances at the local Indiana University Methodist hospital, as well as initiating a new school-wide collaborative fundraiser with other arts fraternities at the University by selling Jordan College of Arts t-shirts. The goal of the performances is to allow Zeta members the opportunity to share their musical talents with those visiting the hospital and offer a stress-free performance opportunity. The t-shirt fundraiser is expected to be funded by a grant from Butler University and raise up to $2,000 to be used for our chapter budget with a majority being donated to SAI Philanthropies. This semester is packed full of events for the chapter, and there are multiple recruitment events in process. — Kathryn Chamberlain, editor

Theta — Washburn University, Topeka, KS This fall has been extremely exciting and busy for Theta chapter. Thus far we’ve had two recruitment events, one of which was a craft party where we made flower hair pieces. At the end of October, we hosted our third recruitment event at a local pumpkin patch to enjoy the weather and sip some warm apple cider! Many of the girls from Theta chapter have gone on “Rose Dates” with a member of the Topeka Alumnae Chapter. It’s a great experience to learn a bit about the women who were formerly in a collegiate chapter and how SAI has impacted their lives. To show our support for local musicians, we have continued our receptions at “Last Minute Folk,” a concert series devoted to showing a wide array of traditional music genres. Our fundraising committee has been hard at work this semester, hosting a used sheet music sale and launching a new

fundraising initiative, “Dinner with the Faculty.” Music students bid on faculty members, and, in return, the faculty prepared a meal for the student and a guest. Not only did the fundraiser support Theta chapter, it was a hit with the music department! — Sally Heaslet, editor

Rho — University of Wisconsin-Madison Cancer is an unfortunate disease that has affected the lives of many loved ones Rho Chapter sisters hold dear. It is for this reason that we decided to do our part in supporting those diagnosed with breast cancer. As one of our Fall Recruitment Events, we held a Girls Love Mail Crafting Session. Girls Love Mail is a non-profit organization that distributes handmade cards to women recently diagnosed with Breast Cancer through oncology centers and hospitals. We had a very good turnout and were happy with the number of cards we were able to make and the words of hope we got to share with women battling cancer. Some of our sisters have even pledged to write weekly letters through this non-profit so that they can support more women as they undergo cancer treatment. Information about how your chapter can hold a similar Girls Love Mail event can be found at girlslovemail.com. — Anastasia Grindle, vice president-membership

Sigma Beta — Ohio University The chapter is excited to announce the welcoming of Elise Armstrong, Sarah Balderson, and Kristi Stropes, our three new MITs this semester. Kathy Vansant also arrived for her Province Officer official visit at the end of September. The chapter learned new techniques and took suggestions for improvement for the remainder of the year as well as for years to come. Sigma Beta also participated in the Photo Challenge presented by Christine Bruns to help raise money for SAI Philanthropies, Inc.

Members of Iota Zeta visited National Headquarters in September.

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One of the goals of the chapter this year is to extend our outreach in the Athens community. One way we hope to do this is through fundraisers to help local school districts buy new instruments for their students. We would also like to have a larger presence in the School of Music and are planning community service events to make this possible. We’re looking forward to a busy, but exciting year! — Lauretta Werner, editor

Sigma Delta — University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Sigma Delta would like to congratulate our three Sword of Honor recipients from last spring: Alyssa Arkin, Kailey Draves, and Kelly Nyquist. This fall has been filled with fun recruitment events. Our favorite recruitment event is our yearly trip to Curtis Apple Orchard, where we enjoy all of the fall-themed activities. — Ann Buchanan, editor

Iota Zeta — University of Georgia, Athens The chapter visited Executive Director Ruth Sieber Johnson at National Headquarters in early September as part of the chapter’s annual sisterhood retreat, held this year in nearby Lake Junaluska, N.C. While there, the ladies went on a tour of the location and sang a handful of sisterhood songs with Mrs. Johnson and the Iota Tau chapter from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. However, Iota Zeta’s main reason for visiting National Headquarters was to hand-deliver a substantial donation for SAI Philanthropies, Inc. The chapter was able to donate $1,000 via bake sales and other fundraisers as well as from chapter dues, given that the chapter has over 50 members. The chapter

will continue to raise money in the coming months for the various philanthropies it supports, including Extra Special People, a local organization that benefited from the proceeds of Iota Zeta’s third annual 5K race on Oct. 26. — Maria del Pilar Torres, editor

Iota Theta — University of North Texas, Denton On Sept. 8, something very exciting happened for one of the sisters from the Iota Theta Chapter. Brittni Kelly was presented with the National Collegiate Leadership Award by Kappa B Province Officer JoAn White. She was one of two sisters to receive this prestigious award for 2013. The ceremony took place on the campus of UNT, Denton, Texas and had several sisters from around the area in attendance: the Iota Theta chapter, Iota Omega sisters, Denton Alumnae Chapter President Sarah Demy, and Rosalind Cratsley, former Kappa B PO and current advisor. It was a joyous occasion, and Brittni was quite surprised. After the ceremony a reception was held honoring her. It was undoubtedly a special night and we, as a chapter, are very proud of her. — Mary Di Stefano, editor

Iota Tau — University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill This September, during officer training with Tau D Province Officer Nancy Durling, officers of Iota Tau and visiting chapters held a surprise ceremony to bestow the National Collegiate Leadership Award to Alex Bradsher. The chapter nominated her last year, and current president Anna Sprecher learned several weeks ago that Alex was to receive the award.

collegiate comment collegiate comment

Members of Iota Zeta present SAI Executive Director Ruth Sieber Johnson with a $1,000 donation to SAI Philanthropies, Inc.

Alex Bradsher, recipient of National Collegiate Leadership Award, left, with Anna Sprecher, current president of Iota Tau.

Iota Theta member Brittni Kelly (center left in red) received the National Collegiate Leadership Award from Kappa B PO JoAn White (center right).

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Everyone played her part to ensure the ceremony was both meaningful and memorable. Anna worked in secret with Alex’s fiancé Brad to find a time for the ceremony that worked for Alex. Then, while the couple was out driving the next day, Brad told Alex that he wanted to visit UNC’s campus, as they’re both alumni. Alex was hesitant but accepted and arrived completely unaware. Meanwhile, several sisters worked to set up for the ritual, and everyone excitedly proceeded with the first portion of officer training. As soon as Alex arrived, she was escorted into the room, where many sisters looked on as Ms. Durling presented Alex with the award. Speechless but joyful, Alex thanked everyone with hugs and warm words afterwards. It was truly an amazing example of the SAI family reaching out to someone who gave so much of herself as a collegiate president. — Sarah Church, editor

Gamma Theta — Georgia Southern University, Statesboro We would like to congratulate our President, Ashley McDonald, on achieving Tau C’s Collegiate Leadership Award, the Ruby Sword of Honor, which she received at Tau C’s Officer Training in Augusta, GA. Ashley is a Senior and Music Education major at Georgia Southern University, graduating this Fall 2013, and starting her Master’s program in Statesboro in Music Education. Ashley is a member of the Spring ’10 class, and has held various positions in the Gamma Theta chapter including Benefit Chairman, Vice President of Membership, Editor, Sergeant-at-Arms (along with Bylaws chairman), and now President. We are so thankful and proud of Ashley, and all she has done and is currently doing for our chapter. — Kori S. Williams, editor

Epsilon Iota — University of Tennessee at Martin On Sept. 13, the sisters at Epsilon Iota celebrated their new MITs with a Cupcake Decorating Bid Night. A few sisters arrived early to get a head start on the baking. The delicious treats included white, chocolate, pumpkin, and strawberry cupcakes. After spending quality time over the

mixing bowl and by the oven, everyone else arrived, and the sweet smell of the cupcakes filled the air. As sisters eagerly waited to decorate, everyone was chatting, mingling, and trying to get the attention of a new MIT to hug her or offer her words of encouragement and congratulations. Sisters sat around laughing and talking as icing was spread, and sprinkles were carefully placed in the cutest way imaginable. When everyone was full and happy with their adorable cupcakes, the rest of the night was spent playing games. Everyone had a lot of fun and enjoyed spending time with the new MITs. — Payton Mink, editor

Epsilon Lambda — Belmont University, Nashville, TN We have welcomed eight new members to the MIT class and have high hopes for another class in the spring. About 30 women attended the information meeting during recruitment week, the majority of them first-semester freshmen. Our theme for recruitment week was “The ‘80s!” In order to complete the theme we presented a musicale consisting of songs from artists like Whitney Houston and Madonna and even a selection from The Phantom of the Opera (1986). This was only a preview to the amount of talent that the women of SAI can present. We made this event open to the campus in order to gain more interest in our organization. Instead of our traditional ice-skating event, we decided to do roller-skating at the Brentwood Skate Center. Other events included ‘80s Ladies Night and cupcake decorating, a semi-annual favorite. For fundraising, we held a bake sale before recruitment to gain interest with goods made by individuals in the chapter. It was a huge success, and we are looking forward to the future of Epsilon Lambda! — Celine DuTemple, editor

Eta Pi — Stetson University, Deland, Florida Eta Pi had a very exciting start to the year! Our first weekend back, we had an overnight sisterhood retreat to Daytona Beach. On the retreat, we had several meetings to discuss plans for the upcoming year. We also spent time working to increase our bonds of sisterhood through various activities, one of which had us pull a random sister’s name and describe three of your favorite things about her, while the rest of the chapter guessed who it was. Our next event was a Formal Dinner, co-hosted

collegiate comment

Collegiate Comment Editor Rosalind B. Cratsley, Iota Alpha initiate, can be reached at collegiatecomment@sai-national.org. Send photo submissions to Gregory Dickens at gregory@sai-national.org.

The Eta Pi Chapter welcomes Lambda C Province Officer Ashley Harrington during her Official Visit.

The Eta Pi Chapter welcomes Lambda C Province Officer Ashley Harrington during her Official Visit.

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with the Phi Mu Alpha Chapter, to welcome students back to school. Just a week later, we welcomed our Lambda C Province Officer, Ashley Harrington, for Official Visit. We were able to spend time getting to know her through meetings, a lovely potluck dinner, and getting great advice! This year our bond with the Volusia County Alumnae Chapter has started off strong. We were able to have a wonderful dinner that allowed us to hear stories of their time in SAI as collegiate members and share some of our experiences. Their chapter also hosted an instrument petting zoo in which our chapter demonstrated various instruments to 150 children! — Brittanie Hamilton, editor

Eta Upsilon — Radford University, Radford, VA Eta Upsilon has made it a goal this semester to strengthen our bonds as a chapter and fundraise as much as possible. This year is our second annual Silence-a-Thon, where each sister picks out 36 hours that they are willing to be silent over the course of a week, and asks for $1 per hour of silent time, or $35 for the entire 36 hours. This fundraiser is a lot of fun for the entire music department as well as other departments as our friends like to make us be silent for as long as possible. Even our professors get in on the fun! We have one senior graduating in December, Heather Price. One of our sisters, Allison Hall is having her Senior Recital this semester. — Heather Price, editor

Theta Eta – Alma College, Alma, MI Theta Eta hit the ground running with organized and passionate sisters. One of the new goals our chapter has this year is to have a bigger presence in the community, and participating in Alma College’s Relay for Life is one of the many ways to accomplish that. Laura Jo Hassold has stepped up to the plate to take the role as team captain this year and has worked diligently to prepare for fundraising this year. Our goal is to raise $500. In order to raise money this year, sisters plan to contact churches in order to play and sing during services for a portion of their offerings. Other ideas for fundraising are still in the works, such as donations during performances put on by sisters and community caroling. For more information, please contact Sarah Scales at scales1se@gmail.com. — Sarah Scales, editor

Theta Theta — Nicholls State University; Thibodaux, LA This fall, the chapter hosted a recurring Halloween fundraiser. The chapter contacted the school’s music, art, mass communications, and

speech departments to participate in this event. Each department had a jar containing the names of teachers who agreed to participate in the fundraiser. Once the teachers’ jars reach $20, the teachers agreed to dress up for the full day of Halloween. The proceeds from the fundraiser will go to the music program of a recent graduate from the chapter. She is currently employed as a band director at a low-income school that doesn’t have funding for instruments, music, etc. All money raised from the fundraiser will go directly to the school for the purchase of instruments and any other necessary items for a thriving music program. — Maegan Besson, editor

Theta Kappa — William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ This past June, Theta Kappa hosted a Benefit Concert for the Community Food Bank of New Jersey. Several SAI Sisters from Theta Upsilon at New Jersey City University and alumnae members, performed and supported the great cause. Piano accompanist, Kevin Lynch volunteered to share his talent. A number of members of the Butler United Methodist Church helped out as well, providing the venue, printing concert programs, and advertising. Admission to this event was a donation for the food bank. Excitement filled the eyes of Theta Kappa as audience members walked in with bags filled with food to donate. Though the audience was quite small, Theta Kappa still raised $140 and the food collection total was 211 pounds of donations! It was certainly a success, and the chapter is hoping to make this an annual event. The chapter would like to thank all who came to support the Community Food Bank of New Jersey, by coming to the Voices for Hunger benefit concert, and making a difference. — Lauren M. Shepard, editor

Theta Lambda — Furman University, Greenville, SC Just weeks into the 2013-2014 school year and the sisters of Theta Lambda have already been hard at work! Furman University’s chapter teamed up with the Phi Mu Alpha chapter to help welcome new music students on Band Camp Move-In Day and with their annual Freshman/Faculty Picnic. Sisters and Brothers could be spotted throughout campus directing traffic, answering questions, and helping students move their belongings into their new rooms! The Freshman/Faculty Picnic, held on Aug. 29, is an annual event for Furman’s chapters of SAI and PMA. More than just a tasty meal, the picnic is a chance for new students to chat with their professors and meet other freshmen. During the picnic, each of the fraternities introduced themselves and the Sisterhood sang the Chorale. These events are just the beginning of what Theta Lambda intends to continue throughout this year in an effort to reach chapter goals. Theta Lambda intends to continue to serve the needs of Furman Music Department in a variety of ways. — Elyse Marder, editor

Theta Omicron — Central Methodist University, Fayette, MO The chapter started the year by welcoming freshman at the annual Fair on the Square. They had a great time singing their songs to the new and returning students. This semester the women decided to collect box tops to give to a local school in need. Theta Omicron held a Lazy Man Olympics as their first Membership Recruitment Activity of the year. All in attendance had a blast playing games seen on the popular television show Minute To Win It. The chapter is busy preparing a Sweet 16 Celebration. The celebration will be a luncheon in honor of the sixteenth year of the chapter. — Sarah Espino, editor

collegiate commentEpsilon Iota President Alissa Plewa with two cupcakes from a chapter MIT event.

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Theta Psi — Loyola University, New Orleans, LA Theta Psi has made huge progress this year. The chapter has doubled in size since last fall, initiating 13 new members, three new members in the Fall 2012 semester and 10 in the Spring 2013 semester. This significant growth has allowed the chapter to be more active within the New Orleans community. For example, this past summer the chapter participated in a local service event called Sealabration! In this project, sisters helped local children make musical instruments out of sea shells. This fall, the chapter will have a musicale community service project at Storyland, a park inside of City Park. Sisters will be singing and doing skits dressed as different fairy tale characters. After the musicale portion, they will be interacting and handing out candy to the children present. The chapter is also putting together musical coloring books for Sacred Heart school children. Currently, the chapter has five members in training looking forward to initiation. The chapter is so excited for the new year with new opportunities arising. — Christina Paparo, editor

Kappa Epsilon — University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS On June 7 and 8, members of the chapter gathered at the home of member Katie Sims for a Sisterhood Retreat. At the retreat, the chapter enjoyed delicious food, movies, swimming, and sisterhood-building activities. The women also communicated ways to improve the chapter, as well as discussed aspects of the chapter that they loved and valued. As the retreat came to a close, the host had one final sisterhood activity for the chapter, which resulted in a poem written by members of Kappa Epsilon. — Jennifer Evans, editorTo my dearest sisters,I love you all. I promise to be there whenever you call. In times of strife we will rise above, By maintaining sisterhood, friendship, and love.

Each sister’s gift shines a light, Bringing music and beauty to the world with all its might. Sisters, we are a special kind, But music is the thread that binds.

We, as great women, make up this fraternity; Love, Music, Sisterhood, for all of eternity. To my sisters I pledge my devotion, With love as our sincerest emotion.

Among our sisters near and far,Our rose acts as a guiding star. For Kappa Epsilon proudly stands, Singing together hand in hand.

Kappa Upsilon — Kansas State University, Manhattan

After celebrating our chapter’s 10 year anniversary, Kappa Upsilon started off the Fall semester with a week of fun-filled recruitment events, such as Spa Day, Zumba, Musical Trivia, and a Formal Tea. After recruitment was over, we can proudly say we have taken on five members-in-training and have nine promises for our Spring initiation. A recent project our chapter has taken on is a musical calendar for the year 2014. Our chapter has teamed up with the three other musical organizations on campus (Kappa Kappa Psi, Phi Mu Alpha, and Tau Beta Sigma) to compile a marching band calendar. This will help us fundraise for future chapter events while also getting our name out into the community. We look forward to what this semester brings our chapter and hope to achieve all the National Objectives! — Katelyn Nickerson, editor

Kappa Phi — Auburn University, Auburn, AL Growing the sisterhood is a very important task and one that takes commitment and skill. The chapter is proud to announce our first fall class in several years. These young ladies are amped up and have taken the first initial steps in their SAI journey. Thanks to the brilliant recruitment ideas of Sami Bustos, Vice President, Membership, and each active member’s drive to grow our chapter, we have three members-in-training for Fall 2013. Arielle Tigney, Erin Conway, and Jessica Terrell are well on their way to becoming members. We wish them luck as they join our cherished organization and sisterhood. — Alisha Carlton, editor

New initiates of Theta Psi Chapter.

Kappa Phi MITs.

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Last April, the Nebraska SAI chapters celebrated Xi A Province Day with an exciting service project organized by the Lincoln Alumnae Chapter. In

collaboration with Lincoln Public Schools and the Lincoln Children’s Museum, we presented our second annual “Music at the Museum,” familiarizing youngsters with a variety of musical instruments and allowing them to hear solo and ensemble performances by school-age musicians. As families entered the Children’s

Museum, they encountered “Live in the Lobby,” a performance zone featuring student-musicians at various ability levels, from late elementary through high school. Upstairs they found the try-out zone (The Petting Zoo), which provided the children – and some adults! – an opportunity to handle and test many different instruments. Children collected stickers at each of the instrument stations: woodwinds, brass, strings, and percussion. The try-out zone was staffed by 35 music education students from

three area colleges including members of Kappa and Eta Nu chapters; they enjoyed sharing their enthusiasm for music with the children and their families. Our lobby musicians, along with their parents and teachers, were grateful for the opportunity to perform in public; for some, this was the first time they’d performed outside of school! We’re already looking forward to next year! — Hannah Jo Smith, Lincoln Alumnae Chapter President

Baltimore (MD) On Sept. 23, Vice President, Membership Stephanie Femrite Stevens appeared as a contestant on Jeopardy! While she did not win in the end, Stephanie played the game quite well, especially, of course, when it came to questions about Broadway musicals and music in general. Stephanie describes the experience as “amazing” and notes that being one of 400 contestants selected out of 100,000 people who took the initial test is an honor. All of the sisters of the Baltimore Alumnae Chapter are very proud of her! — Jennifer McIlvaine, editor

Boston (MA) On Sept. 29, the chapter held a celebration in memory of the lives of two of its members, Donna Clanin Hieken and Alice Allen Lovey. The event encapsulated everything that Sigma Alpha Iota represents. Our two sisters were lovingly remembered with word and song. Presiding over the Memorial Service was former National Vice President, Alumnae Chapters Geraldine Barretto-Sims. She reminded us all of the many musical gifts that Donna brought to our chapter as well as to the national organization. PAN PIPES Editor Heather Davis Lam spoke about Alice Lovely, a sister that too few of us got to know. The music at the memorial service itself was “So Near So Dear,” “An die Musik,” and the Lutkin “Lord Bless You and Keep You.” Former Chairman, SAI Philanthropies, Inc. and current Bold Notes Director Arlene Jospe Veron played all the music for the memorial ceremony as well as accompanying both the vocalists in the concert. Four SAI generations performed on the concert. Marcia Bachman touched our hearts with her beautiful and sensitive interpretation of Aaron Copland’s “At the River” and “Simple Gifts” and we were all moved by Max Janowski’s “Lord, My Heart is not Haughty.” The chapter’s 2013 scholarship winner, Nicole Pompei, drove in from Springfield to play in

this concert. Her beautiful bassoon filled the church with the mellow strains of Bach’s “Cello Suite in G Major #1” movements 1 and 4. It was a rare treat to hear the bassoon in such a perfect environment for the sound. Gina DePaoli delighted us with her “Andante Pastorale” from Giacomo Meyerbeer’s Le Profete, “Ariette” by Gaspard Procksch and “Etchings” movement 1 by SAI composer Melissa Ferguson. Because of the live nature of the church, the clarinet, at times, almost seemed to be playing in canon. It was truly glorious. Martha Ebel sang the traditional Welsh Air “Ar Hyd y Nos” in Welsh as well as premiering a piece by Alpha Omicron initiate Blanche Bonell, set to a Welsh poem “The Swan of Syfaddon Lake.” She finished her set with “My Love is Like a Red Red Rose” which was arranged by Helen Hopekirk. Rosilind Mohnsen, who arranged for the memorial concert to be at her church, Immaculate Conception in Malden, set the tone for the memorial service on the organ with Prelude in F by Fanny Mendelssohn Hensel. The Postlude was Toccata (Deo Gratis) by Richard Key Biggs. Her outstanding virtuosity and choice of music reflected the strength of “Our Cherished Sisterhood.” — Geraldine Barretto-Sims, editor

Boulder (CO) Many of you have most likely heard of the extensive flooding in Colorado and in Boulder, particularly. I am happy to report that all of our SAI sisters (both alumnae and collegiate) are safe and accounted for, though there has been a good deal of damage, and some did get evacuated for a short period of time. Many are now back in their homes, but we do have some members still displaced (one is living with another of our sisters!) and trying to rebuild. We are very grateful that everyone has been able to keep moving forward through this disaster. Many of the sisters have been volunteering with flood relief efforts as well, showing that SAI cares about its community. We can truly see the cloud’s silver lining, even with these storms! In other news, Boulder Alumnae Chapter started off the year strong with a “red book” sing-a-long that was enjoyed by all the members at the first meeting. The ladies have an affiliation ceremony planned for the second meeting of the year to welcome three new sisters into the chapter! This year is going to be a very busy year for many of our sisters: One notable example is this: our president, Megan Oechsner, will be getting married in November! Congratulations to Megan and Tom on a most lovely musical union! — Patty Krus, editor

Dayton(OH) A highlight of the annual Fall Luncheon for the chapter was a visit from Sigma B Province Officer Kathy Vasant. She announced that the chapter had won the Sigma B Province Alumnae Chapter Achievement Award for 2013 for outstanding fulfillment of the National Objectives.

Baltimore Alumnae Chapter Vice President, Membership Stephanie Femrite Stevens competed on Jeopardy!

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Members of the Dayton Alumnae Chapter

She pointed to the many music programs performed throughout Dayton area retirement centers, often assisted by musicians from Delta Sigma, the University of Dayton SAI chapter. Additionally, the chapter raised $600 to support the annual Mary Fox Scholarship Award and supported the Dayton Piano Repertory School and its quality workshops. Camaraderie was enjoyed at a luncheon at the Dayton Racquet Club featuring two flute selections from Delta Sigma president Kelly Connell. — Marilyn Tolnitch, editor

Denver (CO) The chapter awarded scholarships to three members of Sigma Upsilon at the University of Denver in February: First Place, Danielle Snyder, piano; Second Place, Jenna Bainbridge, voice; and Third Place: Camille Jasensky, voice. On March 3, members of our chapter and the Zeta Chapter of Delta Omicron International Music Fraternity presented their joint musicale under the title “American Music in Rhapsody and Song.” It featured a piece for flute and oboe composed by chapter member JoAnne Kyhl, who organizes this annual event. Members who performed were Andrea Wiseman, Mary Nichols, Kristin Rousom, Delorus Netzel, and Donita Banks. In June, we presented 65-year membership certificates to Corrine Olson, Glenda Powell, Jeannine Shafer-Flint, and Rita Jo Tensly. They join Netzel, also a 65-year member. Current President, Janet Williams was awarded the Sword of Honor. In January 2014, we are sponsoring a concert to benefit Mending Faces, a non-profit organization that will send medical personnel and the needed equipment to the Philippines for a week in February 2014. There they operate free of charge on anywhere from 65 to 80 children born with cleft palates. The concert, entitled “Not Everyone Can Whistle,” will feature performers from our chapter and Sigma Upsilon. — Donita Banks, editor

Fort Wayne (IN)

Our April meeting was highlighted by a musical program by the Indiana University/Purdue University (IPFW) Guitar Ensemble. Fifteen players were involved. In May, we honored chapter member Dr. Rosalie Haritun, who retired from Indiana University Purdue University Fort Wayne Indiana. Among many career accomplishments, Dr. Hariton published Music Teacher’s Survival Guide: Practical Techniques & Materials for the Elementary Music Classroom. Zeta Psi soprano Natasha Kersjes performed. Natasha is one of the 2013 recipients of the alumnae

chapter’s auditioned scholarships. In the year ending in June, the chapter affiliated three members, initiated one Distinguished Member, and presented six musicales and three public performances. In addition, six members were honored by the surrounding community. The chapter also sponsored an SAI booth at the annual Indiana Music Educators Association (IMEA) convention in January. This enabled attending SAI music educators to connect and spread the word about SAI. — Tess Reiling, editor

Houston (TX) The chapter set the stage for the fall with a Founders Day picnic and a morning of tea tasting at the annual Alumnae Tea in August. On June 5, in celebration of our inspirational founders, SAI sisters gathered in Houston’s gorgeous Memorial Park for a picnic. Alumnae reminisced on our lives in SAI, our musical and career goals, and our summer adventures ahead. SAI sisters Sheri Lindsey, Ann Hendrix, Laura Bohlmann, Laura Buntin, and Hilary Yip gathered at The Path of Tea to try out six different teas and chat about the summer and the upcoming year. Chapter members have enthusiastically begun the new year with a great budget plan and super ideas for keeping music vibrant in the Houston community. We are all looking forward to a fantastic year together. — Allison Conlan, editor

Indianapolis (IN) We had a fantastic first meeting in September. Our secret surprise was the presentation of the Region V Diamond Sword of Honor to

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Fort Wayne Alumnae Chapter member Dr. Rosalie Haritun was presented with a plaque from Dr. Robert Bean, Music Dept Chair of Indiana University/Purdue University Fort Wayne.

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Leslie Nelson, former National Vice President, Ritual & Fraternity Education and current Treasurer of SAI Philanthropies, Inc., followed by the presentation of the National Alumnae Leadership Award to her as well. Our special guests were Beta A Province Officer Shannon Wagner to present the Diamond Sword and our Region V Regional Officer Peggie Glennie to present the National Award. It was a total success, and Leslie hadn’t a clue that any of this was going on [See Fall 2013 PAN PIPES for complete bio.]. We also affiliated Lisa Delmedico, who just graduated from Butler University in the Spring. — Stephani Jo Burgess-Graves, editorLafayette (LA) On June 14, the chapter held a “White Elephant” Auction and Dinner at the Petroleum Club. Twenty large beautifully decorated and wrapped theme baskets comprised the Silent Auction. Following the dinner, auctioneer Ed Roy entertained the crowd of members and their families and friends with jokes and stories while he conducted the live auction of 20 items including paintings, house wares, musical-themed throws, a Mardi Gras wreath, candles, and other “white elephants” contributed by members. More than $1,900 was raised during the evening to fund various local projects such as renovations for the Early Music Room at University of Louisiana at Lafayette. A portion of these proceeds has been designated by the chapter for SAI Philanthropies. On Sept. 7, at the first meeting of the year, a memorial ceremony was held for patroness Carol Boudreaux. Following the business meeting, there was a musicale featuring Wendy Mayfield (French horn), Amy Williams (flute), and Sue Steck-Turner, piano. The composition performed was “Serendipity” by Jennifer Linn. — Sonja Branch, editor

Lake County (IN) The chapter held its September picnic at the home of member Nancy Stivers. Special guests included members of the Valparaiso University Beta Lambda Chapter, Friend of the Arts Doug Ross, and National Arts Associate Maestro Kirk Muspratt. The picnic was enjoyed by all who attended and was a great way to begin our new chapter year! — Lois Hamm Turner, editor

Lexington (KY) 2012-13 was a year to remember for the chapter. We affiliated 7 new members, held a breakfast at the Kentucky Music Educators Association professional development conference for current and future music teachers in our state, and supported a local collegiate chapter by assisting with their pledging and initiation ceremonies. As of this fall, Lexington Alumnae is officially a chapter in good standing. Due to their hard work and dedication, they were honored with the 2012-2013 Sigma A Province Alumnae Chapter Achievement Award. This year’s planned activities include making pottery for Phlea-Phlam at Sigma A Province Day, a Super Bowl-themed meeting, and an end-of-the-year potluck. We will also be supporting recent Friend of the Arts initiate Clifton Cason at his organ dedication recital at Maxwell Street Presbyterian Church. We plan to affiliate several new members and can’t wait to see what this year will offer for our chapter. — Rebecca Sepulveda, editor

Minneapolis/St. Paul (MN) The chapter met Sept. 9 at the home of Shirley and Michael Santoro in Maplewood. President Susan Anderson-Benson led the officer reports following a lovely potluck dinner created by all members. A Fraternity sing-along preceded a brilliantly performed Musicale by new member Mimi Tung (piano), which included selected works of Alexander Scriabin (1872-1915). A most welcome greeting from Epsilon B Province Officer Carla Amundson concluded the evening. — Madalyn Staupe Traun, VP ProgramingNashville (TN) On Oct. 26, the chapter hosted a brunch for the Psi B collegiate chapters at Lipscomb University’s historic Avalon House. With a little over a month before the chapter benefit program, the Nashville Alumnae Chapter ladies were busy advertising, auditioning, fundraising, rehearsing, and so much more. This year’s program, A Salute to Disney, was held Nov. 8 at I.T. Creswell Magnet Middle School. We were delighted to open the doors for students, parents, the community, and our collegiate chapter sisters to “Be Our Guests” for an exciting night of music, nostalgia, and fun as we raised money to support I.T. Creswell’s music program and SAI Philanthropies, Inc. On Dec 7, Nashville Alumnae will spread some Christmas cheer at Heartland Nursing Home at our Christmas Caroling Social. — Dorian Townsend, editor

New Orleans (LA) The chapter proudly welcomed four new members this year, including the chapter’s first Patroness Member. Leslie Goldberg, Tammy Hathaway, and Regina O’Connell affiliated with the chapter, and Fifi Higgins, who was given Patroness Training, was initiated as a Patroness Member. This year, the chapter has been striving to meet the fraternity’s National Objectives by actively supporting SAI Philanthropies, Inc. and donating to other worthy causes within the community. For example, the chapter donated a $300 scholarship to a local elementary school for a one-hour performance by the Singers for United Land (SOUL). The chapter also made a $100 donation to the University of Southern Mississippi School of Music, to aid in their recovery from severe damage caused by a recent tornado. Finally, just in time for the holidays, the chapter will be holding an Avon fundraiser. The profits received by the chapter from this fundraiser will be donated directly to SAI Philanthropies, Inc. — Sarah Coleman, editor

Alumnae Comment Editor Kim Everett, an initiate of Gamma Rho Chapter, can be reached at alumnaecomment@sai-national.org. Send photo submissions to Gregory Dickens at gregory@sai-national.org.

alumnae comment

Beta A Province Officer Shannon Wagner (left) and Region V Officer, Peggie Glennie (right) presenting the National Alumnae Leadership Award to Leslie Nelson (center).

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New York (NY) During the June meeting Chapter VP, Ritual Cara Roldan presided over the presentation of two awards to deserving sisters. Stefanie Michelle Britton received the Sword of Honor. She did a fantastic job last year as our social chairman and was extremely active in all our chapter activities. Outgoing Chapter President and National Communications Director Michelle Ingram received the Rose of Honor for her continued dedication to SAI on both the local and national level. The chapter thrived under her leadership, and we’re glad she’ll be continuing as a member of the chapter’s Executive Board. Congratulations to them both! — Karen Birch Blundell, editor

Raleigh-Durham (NC) The chapter was honored to learn that we received the 2013 Alumnae Chapter Achievement Award for Tau D Province. Our instrument petting zoos have continued to gain popularity in our community, and we were asked to return to every library in the Wake County area. Additionally, we have collected and donated snacks for students at a high school where two of our members teach. We have also formed a partnership with the local Veteran’s Association and plan to support them through performances and card writing. To continue funding our scholarship program for Tau D collegiate members, we have a variety of fundraisers planned. Our chapter is thrilled to begin our second year by welcoming two new affiliates and implementing a new Patroness recruitment strategy. Our programs for this year include a focus on the ritual, a drum circle workshop, yearbook directory statistics, our annual holiday celebration, and a membership recruitment event. — Johanna Wolf, editor

Reno (NV) Our own Christie Gilkey has been chosen as one of the “Twenty Under 40,” a group of young leaders honored for their exceptional business and community contributions. Each year the Reno Gazette Journal and the Reno-Tahoe Young Professionals Network chooses these outstanding citizens. Annie Beck, an “extremely gifted” special needs student won this year’s chapter scholarship to the Lake Tahoe Music Camp. Asked to play a piano solo during the camp’s concert, she wowed the audience with her talent. The chapter has now received an extremely moving letter of gratitude from Annie, stating that her music camp experience was an event that changed her life. We will all be behind her in her future endeavors in music. Family events are ideal in the hot, sunny Reno summers, especially in the evenings when the mountain air cools down. The members and their families attended an outdoor Reno-is-Artown presentation in the park by

the Reno Dance Company, at which Christie Gilkie’s daughter performed. Sweating through their blood-red SAI t-shirts on, according to some records, the hottest day in Reno history, chapter members gathered an impressive amount of gently-used items for a midsummer garage sale at Linda Brown’s home. There were tears of joy by the hard workers on learning of record returns, mostly gleaned from 25- and 50-cent items, indicating the high turnout despite the heat. This total will nearly cover next year’s music camp scholarship. — Ann Owen, editor

Rochester (NY)

Four talented women affiliated with our chapter on Sept. 9. Beth Bentley and Lindsay Kate Brown came to us from Delta Pi at Pennsylvania‘s Mansfield University. Beth graduated in December with a degree in Vocal Performance and a minor in Child Welfare. She is currently the secretary to the Director of Special Education for the North Rose-Wolcott Central School District. Lindsay will graduate with degrees in Music Education and Vocal Performance. She is student teaching until January when she will return to Mansfield for the second semester. Julie Hopkins graduated from Ohio University in Athens with a degree in Music Therapy. She will be in Rochester for one year to complete a music therapy internship. Jeanne Gray is a retired music teacher for the Webster Central School District. She is past president of the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA), has been a board member of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, and is currently a board member of the Rochester Philharmonic Youth Orchestra. It was a lovely evening, and we were especially pleased to have Eta A Province Officer Cori Hahn in attendance. — Holly Barry, editor

Rockford (IL) Sept. 21 saw two concerts in Rockford, both directed by chapter members. During the day, the Rock Valley Children’s Choir performed, directed by member Leah Baskin. That evening was the Opening Gala for the Rockford Symphony Orchestra, directed by National Arts Associate Steven Larsen. September also marked the passing of one of the charter members of the Rockford Alumnae Chapter. Barbara Nelson was a 65-year member of SAI and was one of the founding members in our chapter’s formation in 1956. Vice President, Membership Barbara Simon has been in contact with several recent graduates who may be interested in joining the chapter. One of them, Northern Illinois University graduate Katie Adams (Beta Mu), attended our September meeting and was affiliated at our October meeting. — Sarah Thurber-Fiorenza, editor

Seattle (WA) The chapter gave money to six young female musicians to help with their summer music camp expenses. These six musicians presented a program for the chapter on Sept. 21. There were two violinists, two singers, a French horn player, and a trumpeter. Three summer music camps were represented: Marrowstone-in-the-City, Cascade Youth Orchestra Summer Camp, and Seattle Girls’ Choir Summer Camp. The performers were accompanied by Friend of the Arts Dr. Charles Enlow, and recorded by Friend of the Arts Dr. Michael Matesky. They were given a CD of their performance. The newly appointed Nu Province Officer, Mayalisa Bordenkircher, made her official visit at our September chapter meeting and attended our scholarship performance. The chapter hosted Nu Province Day on Oct. 5 at Music Center of the Northwest. — Nancy Matesky, recording secretary

alumnae comment

The Raleigh-Durham Alumnae Chapter Executive Board members.

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Tampa (FL) Greetings from the Tampa Bay area! Things are very busy in the Tampa Alumnae Chapter! In our first formal meeting of the year, held at Janice Lancaster’s home, we affiliated Beta Sigma initiate Amey Major. Our chapter is bursting at the seams with 11 more potential new affiliates! In addition, we have many goals for this new year, including a Musicale to be jointly held with Beta Sigma (University of Tampa) and Delta Chi (University of South Florida). With our growing chapter, we are finding ways to keep everyone busy and active! Lambda D Province Officer Tracy Reinhardt-Goss held an officer training for both alumnae and collegiate members that was very informative and well-attended. We are looking forward to many events this year. Have a great year, everyone! — Carol Carstensen, editor

alumnae comment

Members of the Tampa Alumnae Chapter

Friend of the Arts Dr. Charles Enlow (left) accompanied winners of Seattle Alumnae Chapter scholarships (from left): Lauren Barnes, trumpet; Emma Pirie, French horn; Sofia Smith, singer; Ava Gaylord, violin; Erin Dacey, singer; and Charlotte Bedward, violin.

The Tucson Alumnae Chapter invited me to attend the birthday celebration of one of it’s members today. Virginia will turn 100 years old on October 20th. She personally knew four of our

founders! Virginia was initiated into the Sigma chapter in 1934. She spent most of her time with Minnie Davis Sherrill. I loved hearing her first hand accounts. Today I discovered a diamond in Omicron Province I did not know was here. There is such a rich tradition to this organization and I have such respect for those who paved the way for our future. I am so inspired after such an amazing day! — Jennifer Cady, Omicron Province Officer

LEttER fROm a PROviNcE OfficER

Tucson Alumnae Chapter member Virginia Plaia turned 100 in October.

DECEMBER 2013ONE TUNNEL ROADASHEvILLE, NC 28805

INTERNATIONAL MUSIC FRATERNITY INTERNATIONAL MUSIC FRATERNITY

TEMPO!

Save the dates — July 23-27, 2015 in St. Louis

To make the Tempo! National Newsletter interesting and pertinent, we depend on your regular input of chapter activities. By detailing what you’ve been up to, we can let your sisters around the country share in your achievements, charitable efforts and brilliant campaigns.

Chapter comments for both collegiate and alumnae groups are published in Tempo!, the national SAI newsletter. As always, comments should be sent to the appropriate editor. The following suggestions will enable you to show off your chapter in the best possible manner.

1. The amount of text in each comment entry is limited to 200 words. Quite a bit of information can be conveyed in detail in this amount of space. Use the entries in this issue as a template for yours.

2. If you want to include the complete list of graduating seniors or MITs, those will count as part of your 150-200 words. This national SAI newsletter can’t replace the chapter and province newsletters, but instead can offer an overview of chapter activities for the entire fraternity.

3. Provide information of specific compositions performed and any possible theme tying them together. This can inspire similar assemblies in other chapters. And here’s a trick using the current design: We don’t count the words in the photo cutlines. So be specific of who, where and what’s going on in your submitted photos.

4. Too often, chapters begin with “___ had a great/busy year!” to begin their comments. It’s understandable. Starting an article can seem daunting, and this is a reliable crutch. We empathize. We’ve all been there. Unfortunately, we end up with a commentary section where too many articles begin this way. Truly, the articles don’t need such an introductory sentence. We, the SAI audience, are already eager to read what you’ve been up to. Hit the ground running.

5. Watch your exclamation points. An abundance can make your comments shout at the reader. Exclamation points are good in moderation. We’re not banning them, just asking you to cut back to use when you’re conveying truly big news.

6. Don’t be shy about the themes, details and activities of your booths, floats, parties, etc. We all want to know your clever ideas. Tempo! can act as a trading post for ideas for fundraisers, parties, and the like.

7. Have your members received any awards, certificates, gold stars, etc. from outside SAI? Mention that in your entry. The initiation details for Distinguished Membership will still run in Pan Pipes (continue sending in those forms, bios, and pictures as you have before), but a brief mention of DM initiation in your comments is welcome.

8. Let us know of upcoming events you have planned. Give us an idea of your scope of events. Province Day reports will appear in their own section within the Chapter Comments.

9. When possible, submit your entries in Word .doc format. Using a font size no smaller than 12 is very helpful. Those articles using double-spaced lines are easier to read and edit.

10. If you can’t save as a .doc file, type the text inside the email message itself. It will help if your attachment file name identifies the chapter instead of just saying “Article for Tempo” or “Tempo Submission.”

11. If sending photos digitally, try to use as large a resolution as possible. We print at 300 dpi. Usually the default setting on your digital cameras is fine for this. Keep in mind: Even if we don’t run the photos, we keep them for the national archives.

12. Be sure to identify the articles you send with the following information: Date of entry Your name as editor Email address or regular address Telephone number (if you don’t have email ) Complete name of your chapter (with state)

And, voila!, a 12-step guide for making Tempo! convenient, informative, and inviting to read. We welcome your responses and comments and want to help you put together your news in the best possible package. We look forward to your chapter submissions.

Editors Provide Updated Comment Submission Tips