Ever Faithful, Everlasting
HANNAH KEENAN
BY SALLY CUTLER (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), HISTORIAN AND ARCHIVIST
Hannah Keenan (Alpha, DePauw University) truly embodied the everlasting Alpha Chi Omega experience. Hannah’s mother was Founder Bessie Grooms Keenan, and Hannah was initiated into the Alpha chapter in February 1918. Her devotion to our Fraternity was defined not merely by her unique heritage; it was also shaped by her many years of work on behalf of the growing organization.
In September 1929, Hannah joined the central office (known today as headquarters) staff as the assistant to the national executive secretary. She transitioned into the role of director of central office in 1937 and held that position for 29 years.
When she started on staff in 1929, Alpha Chi Omega had 48 collegiate chapters and 68 alumnae chapters. By 1961, the organization had grown to 96 collegiate chapters and 234 alumnae chapters. She also oversaw growth of the central office itself. In 1937, central office was essentially a one-woman operation, but by 1964 Hannah was leading a team of 11 staff members.
After her 1966 retirement, Hannah became Alpha Chi Omega’s archivist. To honor her years of service, the Undergraduate Scholarship Fund was renamed the Hannah Keenan Scholarship Fund.
At the 1983 National Convention, Hannah issued a “Call to Celebrate” the Fraternity’s Centennial, a vision which was realized at the 1985 National Convention in Indianapolis. In it, Hannah shared, “Many sisters have gone before us to make great contributions to our Fraternity, and many sisters will come after us to carry on our traditions and build upon them. However, the happy duty falls to us to celebrate the Centennial of Alpha Chi Omega ... the cornerstone of our Second Century ... Together we will usher in a second century greater than the first. Together we will reach the heights.”
Hannah Keenan passed away on July 8, 1999, at the age of 99.
PLATE HANDPAINTED BY HANNAH AT AGE 12 AS A GIFT TO HER MOTHER, FOUNDER BESSIE GROOMS KEENAN
HANNAH’S SIGNATURE STAMP FROM HER TIME AS DIRECTOR OF CENTRAL OFFICE
HANNAH AT THE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION IN 1985
Everlasting Experience
In July, more than 800 Alpha Chis gathered in Indianapolis to set the pace at our 62nd National Convention. There were countless inspiring moments, but I’d argue that one of the best was looking around each room to see the wide range of sisters in attendance.
Collegiate delegates in their first few years of membership. Volunteers reuniting with their teams in person. Our convention Olympians returning for their 20th event. And so many more!
The Alpha Chi Omega experience is everlasting. It starts with accepting your bid to membership, reaches a milestone at your initiation and can continue in numerous directions throughout your lifetime. That was truly on display at convention as I watched sisters hug after years apart, connect across the generations and encourage each other to stay dedicated to our sorority experience.
When I first accepted my bid to Alpha Chi Omega, I saw a glimpse of what this lifelong sisterhood could be, but I never imagined all the ways this organization would continue to impact my life – the lessons learned, skills built, friendships formed and bonds deepened. Knowing that my personal journey as a real, strong woman continues to evolve, I wait eagerly to see how this everlasting experience will continue to show up in my life, driving me to seek the heights.
Loyally,
LAUREN FILIPPINI ALPHA CHI (BUTLER UNIVERSITY) MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER EDITOR, THE LYRE
WATERCOLOR EXPLORATION
Hosted by Alpha Chi Omega headquarters and led by Pamela Saunders (Zeta Xi, University of North Carolina at Greensboro), the Watercolor Exploration Class was a fun virtual event for alumnae in June. Some sisters extended the fun by gathering in person to paint and socialize! Pictured at the top, Rho Tau Rho (Manhattan, Kansas) incorporated the class in its alumnae chapter programming, and Alpha Pi (University of North Dakota) sisters of the 1988 member class, pictured right, painted carnations and nature during their reunion weekend.
READ IN PRINT OR ONLINE!
Did you know that The Lyre is accessible to all members and friends of Alpha Chi Omega on our Issuu account? If you’re reading this in print, scan the QR code to view our digital flipbook, where you can use the helpful search feature or send the issue to a sister. If you’re reading this online, you can enjoy a hardcopy version when you reach the Foundation’s Life Loyal roll through cumulative gifts of $299.
Contributors
RANDI CRAWFORD
ZETA TAU (VILLANOVA UNIVERSITY)
Randi is a certified life coach with a passion for coaching and educating young adults and their parents. She started her career as the co-founder of a public healthcare company for midlife women, and after a long hiatus, found her purpose when she began to funnel her passion for helping others and has been coaching and keynote speaking through her company, Randi Crawford Coaching, ever since. Read her advice for building resilience on page 44.
JANET CROWDER
ALPHA UPSILON (THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA)
Janet and the other members of the Alpha Upsilon Centennial Planning Committee put on a tremendous weekend event in Tuscaloosa to celebrate 100 years of the chapter. She shares about the May celebration on page 7 (and is pictured here with her daughter, Anna Sara Lavender; Sunee Gates Lavender, mother-in-law of Anna Sara; and Alma Gates Scroggins, Sunee’s sister and former chapter president – all Alpha Upsilon members!).
ALICIA
FIRSTBROOK-STOTT
BETA OMEGA (THE UNIVERSITY OF TOLEDO)
As the president of Rho Tau Rho (Manhattan, Kansas) alumnae chapter, Alicia traveled to Indianapolis as a voting delegate for the 62nd National Convention. She shares on page 13 about the personal experience of our Real. Strong. Women. tagline that she found there.
BRITTANY WESLOCKY
IOTA LAMBDA (TEXAS CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY)
Brittany is an alumna of the Iota Lambda chapter’s member class of 2007. She says her greatest titles are being the wife to Tom; mom to 4-year-old triplets, Avery, Bradley and Connor; and a pelvic health physical therapist. Read about the bond Brittany has with her sisters on page 5.
STAFF CONTRIBUTORS
SALLY CUTLER , HISTORIAN AND ARCHIVIST
OCTOBER HENSON DAVIS , ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF VOLUNTEER AND ALUMNAE ENGAGEMENT
EMILY FLOYD , EVENTS MANAGER
LAURA KNOBEL , ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF LIFETIME ENGAGEMENT
JILL RICHARDSON , ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF MARKETING OPERATIONS
KENDALL SUESS , HOUSING OPERATIONS COORDINATOR
EMMA WILLE , MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR
National President Jennifer Daurora
National Vice Presidents
Leslie Abramsky Block
Kristin Miller Edwards
Dr. Cassie Gerhardt
Dr. Jennifer Wilhoit Lane
Kelli Rodriguez
Chief Executive Officer
Katie Lampinen Gaffin
Senior Director of Education and Engagement
Amy Colvin Mustafa
Director of Marketing and Communications
Amanda Spice
Marketing and Communications Manager
Lauren Filippini
The Lyre is published quarterly.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Lyre 5635 Castle Creek Parkway N. Dr. Indianapolis, IN 46250-4304
Submission Deadlines
Fall issue - July 1
Winter issue - October 1
Spring issue - January 1
Summer issue - April 1
317-579-5050 alphachiomega.org editor@alphachiomega.org
Our Mission
Through the Real. Strong. Women.® Experience, Alpha Chi Omega cultivates impactful communities where women are inspired to connect, lead, grow and serve.
A Sisterhood That is Everlasting
BY JENNIFER DAURORA (DELTA, ALLEGHENY COLLEGE), NATIONAL PRESIDENT
As I think about my Alpha Chi Omega journey, I loved and will always cherish my days as a collegian. The women I met are still among my closest friends. They are the women I call with celebratory news and the ones I reach out to first when I need help or advice. Over the years we’ve supported each other through life’s ups and downs. We’ve been there for each other during the heartbreaks and the high-fives, and for that I will be forever grateful.
Now, I can count on these sisters when I want to talk through an idea, need advice or just want to share good news.
Our Alpha Chi Omega experiences endure and become even more rich and meaningful over time. This is especially so if we find ways to stay connected and give back. It is through these connection points that we help ensure that Alpha Chi Omega will be ready, strong and relevant for the next generation. At the same time, we can enjoy all that our sisterhood has to offer in the present moment!
Serving as your National President, my Alpha Chi Omega experience is becoming even more rewarding and meaningful. To be in service to our Fraternity and our sisters across the country is truly an honor. I am looking forward to meeting new sisters who share our common bond, learning their stories and how Alpha Chi Omega has made an impact throughout their lifetime.
At the same time, I didn’t truly experience the vastness of Alpha Chi Omega until I became an alumna member. When I joined my local alumnae chapter, I was able to meet sisters from all walks of life connected by the everlasting bonds of our sisterhood. During the uncertainty that often awaits recent college graduates, these sisters were welcoming and provided much-needed support.
As I began my volunteer service for Alpha Chi Omega, I witnessed the power of alumnae mentorship and guidance. Through my volunteer service, I gained new skills that helped accelerate my professional development. I learned how to work with diverse groups of individuals and lean on our collective strengths to solve problems creatively. I also benefited from serving alongside women from across the country, significantly expanding my network.
Autum is a great time for reflection. I hope during this season you reflect on your Alpha Chi Omega experiences and consider how you can become even more deeply connected with our sisterhood.
This might mean reconnecting with your chapter sisters, or inspiring others to join you in volunteer service. The great news is that there are no shortage of opportunities or ways to connect with Alpha Chi Omega. From in-person and virtual alumnae events to volunteer service, there is always room for each of us. There is always room to enhance our Alpha Chi Omega experience and deepen our commitment and connection to our sisterhood, a sisterhood that is everlasting.
JENNIFER DAURORA
Unwavering Friendships
BY BRITTANY WESLOCKY (IOTA LAMBDA, TEXAS CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY)
The bond with my AXΩ sisters started almost 17 years ago, when I met some of my best friends as a freshman going through recruitment at Texas Christian University. This new sisterhood I joined was my first connection to others on my new school campus, and I would never have imagined our friendship as freshmen to blossom into what it is now.
My core TCU friends are all my sorority sisters. We have seen each other through the good and the bad. We have celebrated with each other over weddings, buying first homes, promotions and our precious babies. We have grieved with each other over family and friends passing, infertility/miscarriage and illnesses.
Four of us are in the DFW metroplex and one is in Austin, and even though we all live in different cities, we get together often for TCU football games and a lot of kids birthday parties … since we have 12 kids, 5 years old and younger, in our crew. We have also started yearly vacations together. Our first trip was with all the kids and husbands to Broken Bow, OK in 2022, and then in 2023 it was just adults to Savannah, GA, where another sorority sister who lives in Georgia joined us. This year is supposed to be with all the kiddos again.
My sorority sisters have shown up for me so well over the years. In May of 2021, my sorority sisters – Kate Brush, Tara Westbrook, Easton Baker and Katherine Robertson – were the first friends outside of my family I called to tell them I had been diagnosed with breast cancer. The day I had my bilateral mastectomy, two of them were at our house to watch my 1-year-old triplets so that my husband and mom could be with me at the hospital. They set up ways for people to help with meals and childcare as I was going through treatment.
The day we found out I would need chemotherapy and that I would start the next day, they found a company
BRITTANY WESLOCKY (CENTER) WITH HER IOTA LAMBDA CHAPTER SISTERS
to provide me cold caps to help save my hair within less than 24 hours. They encouraged me throughout the entire process and celebrated with me when I was done with chemotherapy. They have been on the emotional roller coaster of this disease as it metastasized to my bones in December 2023.
They have helped raise money so that finances are not another burden on my family. Sorority sisters I have not seen in years have donated to my cause and sent messages of encouragement. The sisterhood formed in those four years at school are lifelong connections.
I have been a cancer survivor for over three years now. In March, I realized just how blessed I am with my group of friends, as I went to a conference for breast cancer survivors under 40 years old. Many of the attendees struggled with losing connections due to their friends being unable to take on the burden of a stage 4 cancer friend. It broke my heart to hear but made me so thankful for the never-wavering friendship I have in my AXΩ sisters. They are and will always be by my side.
A Century of Sisterhood
ALPHA TAU
(THE UNIVERSITY OF NEW HAMPSHIRE)
ESTABLISHED SEPTEMBER 9, 1924
ESTABLISHED JUNE 24, 1924
ALPHA UPSILON
(THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA)
ALPHA PHI
(THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN)
ESTABLISHED SEPTEMBER 13, 1924
Reuniting, Reflecting and Remembering
THE ALPHA UPSILON CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION
BY JANET CROWDER (ALPHA UPSILON, THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA), ALPHA UPSILON CENTENNIAL PLANNING COMMITTEE
Like the two days of celebration that launched our Alpha Upsilon chapter of eight members and three pledges in 1924, 400 chapter members, ages 20-89, gathered at The University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa May 17-18, 2024 for our Centennial Celebration. The weekend included a variety of activities, each with a unique purpose designated by the letter “R.” Casual Friday night gatherings were an opportunity to REUNITE with close friends, member classes or decade groups at local venues and private homes around town.
Saturday’s events were held at the 801 Colonial Drive sorority house, our beloved location since 1927. The morning began with milestone pinning ceremonies to commemorate 20, 50 and 60 years of loyalty to AXΩ, followed by house tours. The Lyre Brunch was a time to REFLECT on the chapter’s history and continuing excellence. A Hera statue, decorated with flowers and surrounded by pearls, greeted guests in the foyer, and tables were decorated with a collage of trophies, yearbooks, crowns, medals and red carnations. A PowerPoint presentation recounted our founding, three houses, chapter accomplishments and individual honors. Current chapter officers gave updates on recruitment, philanthropy and DEI. National President and Alpha Upsilon initiate Lynne Herndon presented a centennial recognition plaque to the chapter. Past National President and current
PHOTO BY ZAPFOTO
Foundation chief development officer Marsha Grady, also an Alpha Upsilon initiate, issued a challenge to financially support the future of the chapter. The morning ended with singing favorite AXΩ songs (led by our Lyre Choir), reciting the Symphony and a group photo.
Campus tours provided an afternoon break before gathering back at the AXΩ house for the evening Pearl Party to REMEMBER the fun we’ve had as AXΩ members and sisters. The foyer stairs were draped in balloon pearls, and the dining room was elegantly transformed with white flowers for a cocktail supper. Later, a video took us back to our college days, revisiting rush skits, Bid Day, initiation, swaps, formal, football games, intramural sports, holidays, Step Sing, the Sigma Chi Derby and parent weekend; it concluded with photos of AXΩ family legacies, weddings with AXΩ bridesmaids and class reunion gatherings as a reminder that AXΩ sisterhood is a lifelong privilege and promise. The program ended with a champagne toast to our 100 years, Dream Cake dessert and singing.
The fun moved to the back veranda with a band party and dancing late into the night. We closed our Centennial Celebration singing “Linger.” We couldn’t linger in the magic of the night, but the Centennial Committee is hopeful that the events of the weekend will inspire those present to reconnect with their AXΩ sisters and recommit to supporting AXΩ and our chapter. It was a once-in-alifetime Top Ten weekend as we made history together celebrating our chapter’s 100th in Alpha Upsilon style!
Be a Province Officer!
Are you interested in supporting Alpha Chi Omega’s collegiate and alumnae chapters by serving as a province alumnae chair (PAC) or province collegiate chair (PCC)? We are currently recruiting for the 2025-27 term!
The women who serve in these prestigious national volunteer roles connect, lead, grow and serve by:
• Building relationships with members of different chapters within the province, as well as with Alpha Chi staff and other national volunteers
• Serving as mentors to sisters and resources to chapters in their province
• Strengthening and sharing their knowledge of our organization and member experience
• Developing and enhancing skills that are applicable to professional and personal work
• Impacting the lifelong commitment of our members to Alpha Chi Omega
All candidates interested in being considered for a province officer position must complete an application by
November 3, 2024. Scan the QR code to apply! If you have questions about serving as a province officer, please email volunteer@alphachiomega.org.
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH
Throughout the month of October
Join Alpha Chi Omega in honoring our national philanthropy of domestic violence awareness. In 2024, we are focusing on financial abuse. Did you know financial abuse is present in 99% of domestic violence situations? Help raise awareness on your campus, in your community and across social media.
FOUNDERS’ DAY
October 15
Celebrate 139 years of Alpha Chi Omega! How will your chapter recognize our founding? Alumnae, stay tuned for a virtual event hosted by headquarters!
FOUNDERS’ DAY CHALLENGE
October 7-21
Honor our Founders with a gift to the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation! Scan the QR code on the back of this issue to give early and make a difference.
ATTENTION, ALPHA ETA CHAPTER SISTERS!
While the Alpha Eta (University of Mount Union) chapter was unable to celebrate its centennial in 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions, sisters are now ready to celebrate “104 in 2024”! The celebration will take place October 11-13, 2024. Details can be found at betapsibeta.square.site/ centennial-celebration or by emailing betapsibeta. axo@gmail.com.
THE PAC TEAM (TOP) AND THE PCC TEAM (BOTTOM)
Last Book Picks of 2024
As we head toward the end of the year, how is your progress on your annual reading goal? If you need to add a few more books to the list, make them the last three Alumnae Book Club picks of 2024! Join sisters in discussion in our Facebook group, AXO Alumnae Book Club.
OCTOBER 2024
TOM LAKE BY ANN PATCHETT
In the spring of 2020 in northern Michigan, Lara’s three daughters return home to the family orchard. As they spend time together, the daughters beg Lara to tell them stories of Peter Duke, an actor who she shared both a stage and romance with many years ago at the Tom Lake theatre company. Tom Lake is a tale of love: young love, married love and the beauty of the life your parents lived before they became your parents.
DISCUSSION: OCTOBER 21-25
NOVEMBER 2024
THE READING LIST BY SARA NISHA ADAMS
Widower Mukesh and anxious teenager Aleisha are an unlikely pair as they forge a bookworm connection at the library. The two embark on a journey to read through a crumpled-up reading list found in an old edition of To Kill a Mockingbird. The reading list binds them together as they both grapple with loneliness and the hope of finding joy again. This book is a perfect read for sisters who find joy in the spine of a new book.
DISCUSSION: NOVEMBER 18-22
DECEMBER
2024
STARS IN AN ITALIAN SKY BY JILL SANTOPOLO
From 1946 to 2017, Stars in an Italian Sky is a telling of true love and the impact of opposing families. In post-World War II Italy, Vincenzo and Giovanna spend time exploring each other’s minds and Vincenzo’s family’s vineyard until political shifts require them to choose a side, ending in perceived betrayal. Decades later in New York, Cassandra and Luca know they are each other’s perfect match even though their families aren’t a perfect fit. When Luca convinces his grandfather to pose for a photo with Cassandra’s grandmother, secrets that have been threatening to resurface for years finally collide.
DISCUSSION: DECEMBER 16-20
Giving Voice to Our History
CALLING ALL SISTERS FOR OUR ORAL HISTORY PROJECT!
BY JILL RICHARDSON (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF MARKETING OPERATIONS
Beginning this fall, Alpha Chi Omega is embarking on the Oral History Project, gathering unique perspectives, recollections and stories of sisters relevant to both individual chapters and the broader Alpha Chi Omega Enterprise. Alpha Chi Omega has partnered with PCI, also known as Publishing Concepts, Inc., to create the Oral History Project (OHP). PCI, a family-owned business based in Dallas, Texas, has published directories for educational institutions, fraternities, sororities and military organizations across the nation for more than 100 years.
As we work to connect with as many sisters as possible, you can expect to receive a series of postcards, emails and/or outreach calls from PCI representatives. If you have received a postcard or an email with a telephone number, you may call the number to speak with a dedicated representative for the Oral History Project. The representative will verify the information we have on file for you, make any updates where needed and then ask you to share your story about your time as an Alpha Chi Omega. Your story will be recorded, and the sound clip provided to Alpha Chi Omega at the conclusion of the project. Sisters living internationally or in need of assistance may email customerservice@ publishingconcepts.com or call 800-982-1590 to participate.
The Oral History Project provides Alpha Chi Omega an opportunity to connect with members, through
interviews conducted by PCI, and gather stories of membership experiences before they are lost to time. Themes to be explored include sisterhood, traditions, lifelong friendships, moments in time and/or professional achievements.
Once the interviews are complete, PCI will transcribe the stories and enter them into a digital story vault owned by Alpha Chi Omega. Member stories will be curated into a hardcover book, available for purchase along with a few apparel and merchandise items to share your Alpha Chi Omega pride.
Alpha Chi Omega benefits from this project in several ways:
• Updated information – allows us to effectively communicate with and engage members
• Heritage – sharing and collecting stories preserves the history of our organization
• Pride – wearing apparel shows support and love for our organization
When you choose to participate, you’ll be helping to capture moments in our sisterhood’s history. So, give it some thought and be ready to share – how has Alpha Chi Omega shaped your life since joining?
MEMBERS – BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR A YELLOW POSTCARD WITH THIS DESIGN IN YOUR MAILBOX SOON!
We Set the Pace!
BY EMILY FLOYD (THETA UPSILON, UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA), EVENTS MANAGER
Alpha Chi Omega was “Back Home Again in Indiana” in July for the 62nd National Convention! More than 800 sisters traveled to Indianapolis to connect, grow and lead the way as sorority women.
The weekend kicked off on Friday, July 12, with an excursion to DePauw University and the Alpha chapter house, tours of Alpha Chi Omega headquarters, the Alumnae Initiation Ceremony and service projects with HopeAnchor & Crew. Prior to dinner, the NHC held a reception to celebrate its accomplishments throughout the biennium. Friday evening, attendees joined each other in the ballroom for Reunion Night Dinner to recognize volunteers, celebrate Seeking the Heights chapter award winners and connect with sisters from their chapter of initiation. After dinner at the Start Your Engines Sisterhood Social, sisters shopped new looks and styles from vendors, mailed postcards to friends and got matching permanent jewelry.
Saturday morning started bright and early with province meetings and networking, followed by the first National Chapter Meeting. National leaders shared updates with attendees during the State of the Enterprise, delegates elected the National Council and National Nominating Committee, and we took the all-attendee convention photo. After the Sisterhood Luncheon, where attendees reflected on the bonds we share, they chose sessions from education tracks to attend before joining together for Jess Ekstrom’s keynote, “PACE Your Mind: Change Your Inner Dialogue and Step Into Your Purpose.”
Next was All That Is Noble, a sister recognition program to celebrate those reaching their 50-, 60- and 75-year anniversaries of Alpha Chi Omega membership,
as well as to recognize more award winners and honor sisters who had passed in the last biennium during the Hall of Memory. To wrap up Saturday, sisters explored downtown Indianapolis with dinner on their own or attended the Indianapolis Indians baseball game with other fans before resting up for the final day of convention.
On Sunday morning, some sisters attended a guided meditation session or enjoyed breakfasts sponsored by Pearl Stone Partners, the Foundation and the chapter consultant program. At the second National Chapter Meeting, delegates voted on important Fraternity legislation. The Foundation celebrated the Common Bond. Uncommon Impact. campaign with an astounding $33 million raised by the luncheon on Sunday – complete with cold sparks!
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR STAR BOOTH REGIONAL CHALLENGE WINNER: REGION 3 - THE SOUTH!
Convention came to an end with the popular Carnation Celebration dinner. We recognized National Council members completing their first term of office and celebrated outgoing National Council members. The evening concluded with the official passing of the National President’s badge from Lynne Herndon to Jennifer Daurora, as well as the reveal of the winners of the Fraternity’s highest and most coveted awards.
Through the whole convention weekend, sisters set the pace for the next two years until we can reconvene in Dallas, Texas, for the 2026 National Convention!
Renewed and Inspired
BY ALICIA FIRSTBROOK-STOTT (BETA OMEGA, THE UNIVERSITY OF TOLEDO), PRESIDENT OF RHO TAU RHO (MANHATTAN, KANSAS) ALUMNAE CHAPTER
Ihave had a few seasons in life where when it rained ... it truly poured. Glennon Doyle’s tagline, “We can do hard things,” has truly been my mantra this year during the worst “storm” yet. I almost thought about not going to convention.
Going was exactly what I needed. I was surrounded by the strength of sisters, all around me! Throughout the weekend I was reminded of the power of Alpha Chi Omega’s tagline, “Real. Strong. Women.”
THANK YOU
to the more than 1,093 donors for your support of Star Booth 2024! Together, we raised more than $250,000 for the Real. Strong. Women. Fund and honored the sisters who make Alpha Chi Omega home.
One of those real, strong women I finally got to meet in person was Samara Terrill (Gamma Tau, Oklahoma City University), who is my province alumnae chair. She is such a wonderful leader and mentor. She didn’t know about any of my struggles, but she has been such an inspiration going through all she has with her breast cancer diagnosis.
I asked Samara if I could share about her in this convention reflection, and she said that although this year has been a whirlwind, it’s been the “biggest blessing” that she can keep serving as an Alpha Chi volunteer.
“The support I have received from my chapters that I serve and the province alumnae team has gotten me through some really hard moments,” Samara shared. “Just a random text message, call and even snail mail – these sisters have supported me each step of the way. Our sisterhood is for a lifetime, and I couldn’t be more grateful.”
Samara is “my story” of convention. I came away from the convention feeling renewed and inspired to move forward in my seasoned journey.
Sometimes showing up is the “cure!”
State of the Enterprise
At convention, the board chairs and CEO of the Alpha Chi Omega Enterprise shared the State of the Enterprise, detailing our collective accomplishments over the last biennium and the future work of our sisterhood. The Alpha Chi Omega Fraternity, Foundation, National Housing Corporation and Pearl Stone Partners look forward to continuing to shape the future through the powerful, transformative and everlasting connections of real, strong women. Here are a few highlights:
ALPHA CHI OMEGA FRATERNITY
Provided robust programming, education and support to collegiate and alumnae members
Created a sense of belonging through experiences, programs and language
Preserved our history and invested in our archives
Focused on growing and retaining membership, particularly through COB and marketing
Prioritized increasing the number of alumnae interested in board service
Continued positioning Pearl Stone Partners to be the employer of choice for the sorority housing industry
Maintained our commitment to our national philanthropy of domestic violence awareness
Ended the biennium with 148 collegiate chapters and 169 alumnae chapters
Filled 4,301 volunteer roles
Surpassed 319,000 real, strong women initiated since our founding in 1885
“With
your support
and dedication to our experience,
new chapters
will
be written for generations to come. Thank you for your love and loyalty to Alpha Chi Omega.”
– NATIONAL PRESIDENT LYNNE HERNDON
ALPHA CHI OMEGA FOUNDATION
Granted more than $6.2 million to support Alpha Chi Omega, including programming, scholarships, chapter support and member assistance
Raised more than $1.5 million for chapter housing projects
Grew Leadership Circle to 340 sisters and Foundation Partners to 225 sisters
Surpassed $10 million granted to local nonprofits through the Community Impact program
Recorded the highest donation totals ever for Founders’ Day Challenge and Day of Giving
Made our way toward the end of the recordbreaking Common Bond. Uncommon Impact. campaign on July 31
“Our accomplishments at the Foundation are truly measured by their impact on the lives of real, strong women … and we couldn’t do what we do without you.”
– FOUNDATION CHAIR KORI WHITENER FELLOWS
ALPHA CHI OMEGA NATIONAL HOUSING CORPORATION
Worked with 13,000 members in 78 NHC-managed spaces
Completed five major renovations and welcomed five properties from LHC transitions
Partnered with 36 LHCs and 37 unhoused chapters
Provided education and support to chapter leaders, advisors, LHC volunteers and house directors
Led renovation of our new headquarters building to beautifully represent Alpha Chi Omega’s heritage
“The work of the NHC requires problem-solving, perseverance and creativity … Providing housing for Alpha Chi Omega remains worth the effort and investment.”
– NHC PRESIDENT DONNA MCGRATH KLINGE
Individual Collegiate Awards
AMY DUBOIS RIETH EMERGING LEADER AWARD
Honors a recently initiated member who has embraced the ideals of Alpha Chi Omega and shown great potential to serve her chapter, her campus and her community – and is already taking steps to do so
TATIANA GARCIA (BETA ETA, FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY)
According to her nominator, Tatiana “is engaged, proactive, collaborative, and driven, all of which are attributes essential for someone aspiring to ascend and excel in leadership roles.” She has been dedicated and involved in her chapter and across campus while focusing on her studies as an honors program student. Her nominator added, “Her impact on her chapter is multifaceted, encompassing active participation in events, leadership roles, and an infectious passion that resonates with her fellow sisters. Her dedication reflects a well-rounded commitment to the chapter’s success and the collective well-being of its members.”
ESTELLE LEONARD OUTSTANDING SENIOR AWARD
Honors a senior who best represents the ideals of Alpha Chi Omega. This real, strong woman is actively involved in her chapter, on her campus and in her community
KENDALL MCCARTHY (IOTA LAMBDA, TEXAS CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY)
According to her nominator, Kendall “shines as a passionate and dedicated leader, always offering a helping hand when others need it.” In addition to her campus involvement, Kendall served TCU’s Panhellenic community and volunteered with Alpha Chi Omega nationally as a 2022 convention page. She had a double major and was an honors college student. Her nominator adds, “Her genuine love for our sisters, coupled with her dedication to Alpha Chi Omega principles, has created a legacy that resonates throughout the chapter’s past, present, and future.”
OUTSTANDING COLLEGIATE CHAPTER ADVISOR AWARD
Presented to an Alpha Chi Omega chapter advisor who guides and supports the chapter, serving as a role model while encouraging innovation and motivation
TIPPA FELTMAN (THETA KAPPA, UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS), CHAPTER ADVISOR FOR LAMBDA PI (UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI)
Tippa has been a constant support to leaders and members of our newest chapter as they continue to grow. She leads by example to help Lambda Pi navigate through successes and challenges as a team. Her nominator shared, “Tippa always takes the extra step to make members feel valued. She actively listens to the thoughts of our members, while also pushing our members to grow and adopt different perspectives. She embodies exactly what it means to be a real, strong woman: to love your sisters, and yourself, through every phase of our journey of seeking the heights.”
OUTSTANDING COLLEGIATE POSITIONAL ADVISOR AWARD
Presented to an Alpha Chi Omega collegiate positional advisor who embodies a real, strong woman and who guides and supports the chapter in the area that she advises
CALLIE COLE (DELTA RHO, UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS), RECRUITMENT ADVISOR FOR BETA SIGMA (UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA)
Callie understands the nuances of how recruitment and potential new members evolve each year and is knowledgeable about each step of the recruitment process. She is passionate, level-headed and empowering of the recruitment team in leading Beta Sigma through successful values-based recruitments. Her nominator shared, “She advises with insurmountable grace, compassion and understanding. It is not only the recruitment team that is inspired by Callie, but also the whole chapter. Callie is the role model and leader we aspire to be.”
OUTSTANDING LOCAL HOUSE CORPORATION VOLUNTEER AWARD
Awarded biennially to recognize the outstanding volunteerism of an individual local house corporation board member who has demonstrated a positive impact on the work of the LHC and/or the collegiate chapter
LESLIE SOULE (SIGMA, UNIVERSITY OF IOWA), SIGMA CHAPTER LHC
Leslie has been a member of the Sigma LHC board since 2011 and has served as its secretary, treasurer and president. Her nominator shares, “Leslie embodies a real, strong woman because no job is too difficult for her. She always finds a way to solve problems.” Throughout her tenure, Leslie has overseen many tasks related to the house such as updating the HVAC control system, security system and cameras; remodeling the upstairs members rooms; remodeling the informal living room; handling vendor payments; preparing tax returns; managing the house budget; and more.
LOCAL HOUSE CORPORATION COLLABORATION AWARD
Presented biennially to recognize a local house corporation that partners, collaborates and ensures a positive working relationship with the collegiate chapter
PHI LHC AT THE UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS
The Phi local house corporation personifies collaboration and centers its work on supporting the collegiate members of the Phi chapter at the University of Kansas. LHC members consistently maintain open lines of communication with chapter leaders and advisors and are incredible partners. Most notably, the Phi local house corporation has been instrumental in helping the chapter navigate COVID-19 and the loss of a chapter member, knowing how important a home away from home is for our collegiate sisters. Pictured accepting the award at convention: Phi LHC President Missi Schoen
COLLEGIATE CHAPTER SEEKING THE HEIGHTS AWARDS
CHAPTER GROWTH
• Epsilon Lambda (The University of Texas at Arlington)
• Epsilon Zeta (Auburn University)
• Theta Upsilon (University of South Carolina)
MEMBER WELLNESS
• Gamma Tau (Oklahoma City University)
• Zeta Nu (Texas A&M University)
• Zeta Sigma (Missouri State University)
MEMBER RETENTION
• Alpha Upsilon (The University of Alabama)
• Beta Eta (Florida State University)
• Sigma (University of Iowa)
REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. EXPERIENCE
• Delta Kappa (Sam Houston State University)
• Delta Zeta (Central Michigan University)
• Gamma Sigma (University of Rhode Island)
Collegiate Chapter Awards
CONTINUING EXCELLENCE AWARD
Presented to the chapters that have demonstrated continued excellence after receiving the National Council Trophy or Continuing Excellence Award during the last five years
ALPHA UPSILON (THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA)
Alpha Upsilon continued to provide members with engaging and educational programming, including speakers and sisterhood events, and connected with and celebrated each other through recognition programs. Alpha Upsilon raised awareness for domestic violence through multiple philanthropy events; encouraged members to get involved on campus and with other sororities; participated in mental health activities; and had each member complete the DEI program outlined by the university’s Student Government Association.
CHAPTER OPERATIONS
• Alpha Mu (Indiana University)
• Delta Epsilon (Southeast Missouri State University)
• Zeta Upsilon (Case Western Reserve University)
CHAPTER INNOVATION AWARD
• Alpha Kappa (University of Oregon)
BETA ETA (FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY)
Beta Eta continued to focus on sisterhood and members’ well-being by hosting wellness workshops and implementing sister check-ins. The sisters of Beta Eta fundraised and raised awareness about domestic violence through philanthropy events and continued to make a positive impact on the community by donating leftover food to local organizations. Beta Eta prioritized member education and connection through speakers, DEI educational workshops, Founders’ Day Dinner with alumnae, sisterhood events and leadership retreats.
DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION AWARD
• Beta Psi (Louisiana Tech University)
• Epsilon Omega (Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo)
• Iota Phi (Quinnipiac University)
NATIONAL COUNCIL TROPHY
Presented to the chapters that display the most significant achievements in chapter management, member support and development, with the highest cumulative scores across all Seeking the Heights Award categories and the Diversity and Inclusion Award
ALPHA ETA (UNIVERSITY OF MOUNT UNION)
Alpha Eta developed programming to celebrate the heart of our organization – sisterhood. The chapter hosted at least one sisterhood event per month, reconnected at a retreat, recognized individual sisters, collaborated with the local alumnae chapter and more! Officers and advisors created clear guidelines for committees to increase delegation and involvement. Alpha Eta also implemented a year-round risk management education program, shared information about cultural events and recognition months, and raised domestic violence awareness.
BETA SIGMA (UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA)
Beta Sigma focused on integrating philanthropy, education, inclusion and Ritual to create meaningful and impactful experiences for members. Members connected through weekly chapter dinners, sisterhood workout classes, DEI discussions, a Founders’ Day celebration, a LinkedIn workshop, a new mental health chair and more. The chapter educated the campus community on domestic violence and raised more than $33,000 for its local shelter. The executive board focused on delegating to committees, keeping decisions transparent and maintaining clear communication.
EPSILON OMEGA (CAL POLY, SAN LUIS OBISPO)
Epsilon Omega developed programming focused on connecting and learning alongside each other through sisterhood bonding events, academic workshops and education dialogues. Epsilon Omega also emphasized member well-being by providing resources and support. Campus and community involvement was encouraged; Epsilon Omega had the most members assisting first-years at Mustang Move-In and raised more than $12,000 for its local shelter.
CHAPTER PROGRESS AWARD
Presented to the chapters with significant growth and progress in chapter operations, member support and development
DELTA PI (UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE, KNOXVILLE)
Delta Pi increased transparency behind decisionmaking, improved communication with members, worked with campus partners to create educational programming and focused on informal accountability. The chapter celebrated many successes, like having 100% new member retention, having 92% of the chapter involved in another organization and reaching the highest ranking in the Office of Sorority & Fraternity Life recognition program. Delta Pi focused on creating a stronger sense of belonging among its 400 members, making sure everyone felt heard.
Partner Awards
2024 VISION AWARD
Recognizes individuals who are not members of Alpha Chi Omega for contributions to the fraternity and sorority movement
CORPORATE AWARD
Honors a corporation or business that demonstrates generosity to Alpha Chi Omega through financial contributions or support and serves a vital role in furthering our mission
DR. PATRICK BIDDIX
Dr. Patrick Biddix is a professor of higher education at the University of Tennessee and research fellow for the Timothy J. Piazza Center for Fraternity and Sorority Research and Reform at Penn State University. He is a leading researcher in student affairs, studying the impact of fraternity and sorority membership on success during and beyond the college years. He has conducted multiple research projects on behalf of NPC on the topics of retention, diversity and well-being. Dr. Biddix is the primary research advisor for the Foundation for Fraternal Excellence’s Women’s Research Initiative agenda.
THE NATIONAL BANK OF INDIANAPOLIS
The National Bank of Indianapolis is a valued business partner that has developed meaningful relationships within our organization and provides above and beyond customer service to Alpha Chi Omega with everything from large loan negotiations to continual reminders about potential risk areas for bank fraud. The relationship with The National Bank of Indianapolis over many years has been a critical part of Alpha Chi Omega’s success. Pictured accepting the award at convention: Jason Vohs, vice president of nonprofit services for The National Bank of Indianapolis
Alumnae Chapter Awards
NATIONAL COUNCIL TROPHY
Presented to the alumnae chapters that best exemplify the ideals and mission of Alpha Chi Omega through accomplishments in all areas of alumnae chapter development
SIGMA SIGMA (ST. LOUIS, MO)
Sigma Sigma implements best practices for chapter management, membership growth, member engagement, philanthropy, sisterhood and more. Sigma Sigma supports four collegiate chapters in Missouri and has hosted ceremonies for 15 alumnae initiates over the past 10 years. Four local domestic violence support agencies receive gifts of time, money and hygiene items from Sigma Sigma members.
ALPHA GAMMA ALPHA (ATLANTA, GA)
Alpha Gamma Alpha’s membership represents a crosssection of Alpha Chi Omega sisters; its diverse executive board and programming reflect the wide-ranging perspectives and interests of members. The chapter is particularly passionate about philanthropic initiatives, hosting many fundraisers throughout the year and participating in service projects. Chapter leaders strive to remain adaptable and relevant, using the results of member surveys to guide programming decisions.
ALUMNAE CHAPTER SEEKING THE HEIGHTS AWARDS
COLLEGIATE SUPPORT
• Epsilon Pi Epsilon (Rhode Island)
• Omicron Phi Omicron (Zeta Pi Alumnae)
INNOVATION
• Mu Mu (Kansas City, MO)
• Lambda Upsilon Lambda (Asheville, NC)
MEMBER ENGAGEMENT
• Nu Nu (Denver, CO)
• Gamma Tau Gamma (Newport Beach, CA)
MEMBERSHIP GROWTH
• Sigma Chi Sigma (The Villages, FL)
• Alpha Eta Alpha (Jacksonville, FL)
CONTINUING EXCELLENCE AWARD
Presented to the alumnae chapters that best exemplify the ideals and mission of Alpha Chi Omega through sustained success across all areas of alumnae chapter development, after receiving the National Council Trophy or Continuing Excellence Award during the last five years
BETA KAPPA BETA (DALLAS, TX)
Beta Kappa Beta boasts a large and well-coordinated executive board, with leaders who are also involved with local collegiate chapters and alumnae Panhellenic associations and chapter members who are fully engaged in the functions of the chapter and the Fraternity. The chapter continues to grow through personal outreach, membership milestone celebrations and cross-generational connections, and it has now exceeded its pre-pandemic membership numbers.
PHILANTHROPY
• Iota Lambda Iota (Lake County, IL)
• Mu Mu (Kansas City, MO)
PROMOTING ALPHA CHI EVERYDAY (PACE)
• Iota Lambda Iota (Lake County, IL)
• Theta Kappa Theta (Springfield, MO)
GAMMA THETA GAMMA (LOS ANGELES, CA)
Gamma Theta Gamma enjoys celebrations of Alpha Chi traditions, especially through arts-themed programming for MacDowell Month and service and random acts of kindness for Hera Day. The chapter communicates regularly with sisters in the LA area through its newsletter highlighting chapter and national events, personal accomplishments of sisters and more. Special interest groups and varying membership levels and costs ensure all sisters have a way to “plug in” to the chapter at their comfort level.
RITUAL
AND FRATERNITY APPRECIATION
• Sigma Chi Sigma (The Villages, FL)
• Delta Eta Delta (Arlington, TX)
SISTERHOOD
• Nu Nu (Denver, CO)
• Beta Omega Beta (Phoenix, AZ)
Individual Alumnae Awards
AWARD OF ACHIEVEMENT
Presented to alumnae members who have gained national recognition in their chosen profession and/or field of study
ALUMNAE APPRECIATION AWARD
Presented to alumnae who have given many volunteer hours to Alpha Chi Omega faithfully and unselfishly through the years through sustained, outstanding service
OUTSTANDING DEDICATION AWARD
Recognizes alumnae who currently give many volunteer hours to Alpha Chi Omega faithfully and unselfishly
STEPHANIE O’ CONNOR (GAMMA EPSILON, OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY)
Stephanie is the chief technology officer at City Utilities. She is the founder of SWAG (Strong Women Achieving Goals), focused on advancing and supporting women within their workplace to pursue work-life balance, be unapologetic leaders and build support networks. Her nominator writes, “Stephanie embodies the qualities of an Alpha Chi Omega and a real, strong woman through her remarkable career and impactful initiatives.”
BEVERLY “BEV” WOOD NICHOLS (ALPHA NU, UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI)
Bev has served Alpha Chi continuously since her collegiate days as VP finance. After graduating, she joined the Alpha Nu LHC and still serves to this day. She served as the Mu Mu (Kansas City, Missouri) alumnae chapter treasurer for more than 20 years, VP membership for four years and is currently the chapter president. She is passionate about building and maintaining connections between sisters of all ages. Her nominator shared, “Bev is one of the rare jewels who has shown such long, faithful, unselfish and dedicated volunteer service to benefit the greater good of the Fraternity.”
COURTNEY ELLIS (XI, UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA – LINCOLN)
Courtney has served in a variety of roles: collegiate advisor, house corporation member, alumnae chapter executive board member, alumnae Panhellenic board member, province collegiate chair, province officer nominating committee, extension team member, NPC area advisor and Alpha Chi Omega’s chief Panhellenic officer. Her passion for promoting the sorority experience through Panhellenic involvement has helped strengthen Alpha Chi’s relationships with other NPC groups across many campus and city communities. Her nomination reads in part, “Courtney’s contributions have provided an enduring legacy of philanthropy, mentorship and unity.”
DO YOU KNOW A FUTURE AWARD WINNER? MAYBE IT’S YOU?
Nomination forms for individual awards open in mid-September, with a November 15 submission deadline. Collegiate chapter award applications are currently live and close on October 15 for semester schools and October 30 for quarter schools. (Alumnae chapter awards, LHC awards, the Vision Award and the Corporate Award are only presented in convention years.) Check your email for more details and application links!
YOUNG ALUMNA AWARD
Recognizes outstanding service to Alpha Chi Omega by alumnae who have been initiated in the past 12 years
GABRIELA BOTZMAN (ALPHA ETA, UNIVERSITY OF MOUNT UNION)
Gabriela has already served in many volunteer roles, including on the Alpha Eta advisory board and as an LHC member. She also served in various officer positions for Beta Psi Beta (Alliance, Ohio), including as chapter president, and transitioned the chapter to a blended model to engage Alpha Eta alumnae across the country. She currently serves as the province alumnae chair for Ohio and mentors sisters through Women & Wisdom. Her nominator shared, “[Gabriela is] willing to go the extra mile to support those around her. She is passionate, organized and challenges the status quo.”
WHO DO YOU KNOW?
members
resource for
Celebrating Our Common Bond and Uncommon Impact
Campaign Impact Report
Sisters and friends of Alpha Chi Omega,
What began as a means to continue Alpha Chi Omega’s vision of shaping the future through powerful, transformative and everlasting connections has become a shining imprint on our fraternal history. The Foundation’s Common Bond. Uncommon Impact. campaign has been a journey of collective effort and steadfast commitment to empowering real, strong women.
Our goal was to raise $25 million to support our four campaign priorities: Fraternity Programs, Chapter Support, Individual Members and the Community Impact Program. Thanks to your generosity and commitment to our common bond, we quickly reached that goal and decided to build on the momentum by extending our goal to $30 million and exceeding it.
During the campaign period, every gift of every size and purpose counted toward our goal. While our goal was ambitious, so was our drive to create a lasting impact – an uncommon impact – for Alpha Chi Omega.
Within these pages, you’ll see our full campaign report, outlining the impact you’ve made and how your support is making a difference in the lives of real, strong women. We recognize our success would not have been possible without the continued generosity of sisters and donors like you. Your support, in its many forms, has made this historic celebration possible.
As we look ahead, we are excited about the possibilities and new initiatives on the horizon. There is still work to be done, and we look forward to always moving Alpha Chi Omega forward, together.
Thank you, again, for your unwavering dedication and commitment to Alpha Chi Omega. Together we have made an uncommon impact!
Loyally,
Miek Hart (Sigma, University of Iowa)
Campaign Co-Chair
Anne Helliwell (Gamma Iota, University of Florida)
Campaign Co-Chair
Uncommon
Total Raised
$34,107,888
$25M original goal
$30M extended goal 114% of goal met
$27.7M in cash gifts and pledges
$6.4M in documented planned gifts
10,892 alumnae and collegiate donors to the campaign*
6,112 first-time alumnae and collegiate donors
12,763 total members and friends donating to the campaign
*does not include nonmember
Fraternity Programs
$2.7M in cash gifts and pledges
$600,000 in documented planned gifts
Fraternity programming is at the core of the Real. Strong. Women. Experience. Signature Alpha Chi Omega programs and experiences enrich the lives of our members, empowering them to connect, lead, grow and serve in every phase of life. Ensuring these opportunities continue to develop and adapt is essential to our members’ success.
The Common Bond. Uncommon Impact. campaign has provided critical funding to support and enhance these programs, ensuring that our members have access to transformative experiences that foster personal and professional growth.
11 NEW ENDOWED LEADERSHIP FUNDS CREATED DURING THE COMMON BOND. UNCOMMON IMPACT. CAMPAIGN:
•Angela Costley Harris Fund for Fraternity Programs
•Betty Tudor Brown Leadership Fund
•Darlene Gates Stevenson Fund for Convention Assistance
•Jensy Patterson Richards Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Fund
•Judy Evans Anderson Leadership Fund
•Katie Lampinen Gaffin Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Fund
•Leadership Academy Fund in Honor of Angela Costley Harris
•Marsha King Grady Leadership Fund
•Mary Patricia Lambke Leadership Fund
•Pamela Haymes Graham Fund for Alumnae Programming
•Suzy Ball Gunter Memorial Fund Benefitting Let's Talk Love
AT LEADERSHIP ACADEMY, COLLEGIANS HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO COLLABORATE AND BRAINSTORM WITH SISTERS ACROSS FROM ACROSS THE COUNTRY.
Real. Strong. Women. Fund
$3.9M in documented planned gifts
These funds were used to support Foundation operations and Fraternity programs during the campaign period.
Chapter Support
$7.1M in cash gifts and pledges $1M in documented planned gifts $9M in cash gifts and pledges
The campaign has created a brighter future for Alpha Chi Omega by ensuring the sustained success of individual chapters. By making gifts to chapter-specific endowed funds, Alpha Chi Omega sisters and friends have invested in our chapters, underwriting opportunities for leadership, learning and service.
• 21 new chapter housing funds created during the campaign
• 35 total chapter housing funds active during the campaign
• 14 new chapter education funds created during the campaign
• $1.5M raised for new and existing chapter education funds
• $6.5M raised for new and existing chapter housing funds
Chapter education funds provide financial assistance to individual chapters for expenses related to national leadership and educational programming.
Chapter housing funds help lower the costs of construction, renovation, redecorating and ongoing maintenance of educational spaces in Alpha Chi Omega facilities.
14 CHAPTER EDUCATION FUNDS CREATED DURING THE COMMON BOND. UNCOMMON IMPACT. CAMPAIGN:
• Alpha Phi Chapter Education Fund in Honor of Kay Webb Nunnally
• Alpha Pi Chapter Centennial Fund
• Beta Tau Chapter Education Fund
• Cheryl Maize Chapter Education Fund for Delta Omicron Chapter
• Delta Rho Chapter Education Fund
• Iota Nu Chapter Educational Leadership Fund
• Jennifer Daurora Fund for Delta Chapter
• Kristine Scoon & Sara Scoon Sladjoe Kappa Leadership Fund
• Lorna Stoakes Fox Fund for Alpha Lambda Chapter
• Margaret L. Maxwell Fund for Beta Lambda Chapter
• Rocky Top Chapter Education Fund
• Sigma Chapter Education Fund
• Texas Province Leadership Fund
• Theta Tau Chapter Education Fund
Individual Member Support
$2.8M in cash gifts and pledges
$900,000 in documented planned gifts
Every Alpha Chi Omega deserves to excel and reach her academic potential while also enjoying the lifelong benefits of the sorority experience. Through gifts to the Common Bond. Uncommon Impact. campaign, donors have helped alleviate the financial burden many members face while in school, making sisterhood and higher education more accessible. In addition, gifts to new or existing member assistance funds help support collegiate and alumnae sisters during difficult times of their lives.
• $3.7M raised for new or existing funds for scholarships, educational assistance and member assistance benefitting individual members
• 43 new scholarship and educational assistance funds created during the campaign
• 2 new member assistance funds created during the campaign
Community Impact
For more than 32 years, Alpha Chi Omega has been committed to raising awareness and educating others about domestic violence. Our members are dedicated to fighting against unhealthy relationships and serving those impacted by domestic violence.
Through the Foundation’s Community Impact program, collegiate and alumnae chapters have made an uncommon impact within their campus and local communities, furthering Alpha Chi Omega’s efforts to eliminate domestic violence.
• 150 collegiate and alumnae chapters participated in the Community Impact program during the campaign
• 1,409 events hosted through the Community Impact program during the campaign
• $6.2M raised for local domestic violence agencies and other charities during the campaign
SCHOLARSHIPS AND GRANTS PROVIDE SUPPORT FOR SISTERS IN THEIR PURSUIT OF UNDERGRADUATE AND GRADUATE DEGREES.
Number here and on cover represents campaign total as of the convention Foundation Luncheon on July 14, 2024
Thank You!
Thank you to the real, strong women who served in Foundation volunteer roles alongside our staff during the Common Bond. Uncommon Impact. campaign. Your strategic leadership and oversight have been critical to the success of the campaign and have inspired others to give back through time and treasure. Your commitment to Alpha Chi Omega has been the driving force behind every milestone we’ve achieved, and for that, we extend our deepest gratitude. Your efforts not only helped us meet our financial goals but also created a legacy of generosity, sisterhood and service that will inspire future generations of Alpha Chi Omegas.
CAMPAIGN STEERING TEAM:
Miekeleen D. Hart, Sigma, Campaign Co-Chair
Anne E. Helliwell, Gamma Iota, Campaign Co-Chair
Diane Polin Boone, Beta Tau
Cathy Smith Boragno, Delta Sigma
Julie Cain Burkhard, Beta Sigma
Dr. Kori Whitener Fellows, Alpha Phi
Allison J. Foster, Gamma Chi
Lorna Stoakes Fox, Alpha Lambda
Katie Lampinen Gaffin, Delta Zeta
Cassie Gerhardt, Alpha Pi
Marsha King Grady, Alpha Upsilon
Angela Costley Harris, Alpha Beta
Lynne Biggio Herndon, Alpha Upsilon
Kristin Snyder Himsel, Alpha
Madeline Plesac Jenkins, Alpha Beta
Donna McGrath Klinge, Epsilon Kappa
Jill Sabatino Lacy, Gamma Mu
Mary Pat Lambke, Beta Epsilon
365 volunteers served on Foundation committees and boards throughout the campaign.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2018-24:
Aggie Smith Steiner, Beta Eta, Chair 2017-19
Mary Pat Lambke, Beta Epsilon, Chair 2019-21
Dr. Kori Whitener Fellows, Alpha Phi, Chair 2021-24
Mikelle Holt Brady, Alpha Beta
Angela Costley Harris, Alpha Beta
Janis Rose Hurter, Zeta Omicron
Jill Sabatino Lacy, Gamma Mu
Kim Wood Phillips, Alpha Beta
Carmen Becker Rene, Gamma Delta
Judy Kuergeleis Schmuck, Delta Chi
Lindsay Ferrell Vise, Omega
Anne Teaford-Cantor, Alpha Psi
Cassie Gerhardt, Alpha Pi
Lynne Biggio Herndon, Alpha Upsilon
Maree Magliocchetti Lattanzi, Alpha Tau
Tonya Tatum, Beta Lambda
Diane Polin Boone, Beta Tau
Jenny Winterstein Champlin, Psi
Annamarie Geppert Hellebusch, Zeta Omicron
Leslie Abramsky Block, Theta Tau
Mary Carter Martin, Alpha Nu
A complete list of Common Bond. Uncommon Impact. campaign donors can be found on the next pages, exclusively here in the digital version of The Lyre
Campaign Recognition
Thank you to the generous sisters, friends and chapters that supported the Common Bond. Uncommon Impact. campaign. Our campaign honor rolls recognize members and chapters who made gifts from August 1, 2018 through July 31, 2024. (+ denotes deceased)
THREE STRINGS IMPACT
($500,000 - $999,999)
+Betty Tudor Brown, Phi
Paula Catterall, Sigma
Carla Henke Mattson, Alpha Nu
Wendi Solinger, Alpha Psi
Lark Will, Delta Iota
Collegiate Chapters
Alpha Upsilon, The University of Alabama
Iota Lambda, Texas Christian University
Iota Sigma, Southern Methodist University
SYMPHONY IMPACT
($250,000 - $499,999)
Sandra Lord DeTar, Omega
Kori Whitener Fellows, Alpha Phi
Anne E. Helliwell, Gamma Iota
Lynne Biggio Herndon, Alpha Upsilon
Ginger Sears Johnson, Zeta Omicron
Jill Sabatino Lacy, Gamma Mu
Mary Pat Lambke, Beta Epsilon
Anonymous, Alpha Beta
Maggie Molleston, Iota Sigma
Nancy Eckert Selleck, Phi
Tonya Lee Tatum, Beta Lambda
Anne Teaford-Cantor, Alpha Psi
Collegiate Chapters
Beta Eta, Florida State University
Zeta Nu, Texas A&M University
GOLD IMPACT
($100,000 - $249,999)
Julie Cain Burkhard, Beta Sigma
Joe Buskuhl in memory of Jayne Bellmon Buskuhl (Alpha Phi, The University of Texas at Austin)
Heather Carrio, Psi
Donna Smith Chereck, Alpha Phi
Ashlee Townsend Cribb Woliver, Epsilon Phi
Tristin Stauder Donnell, Psi
Shawn M. Donnelley, Zeta Psi
Fami Kim Eaton, Iota Alpha
Stacey Anderson Farrell, Alpha Phi
Lynn Self Ford, Psi
Ellie Smith Fox, Psi
Patricia Franklin, Beta Lambda
Kaylyn Stauder, Psi
Marsha King Grady, Alpha Upsilon
Denise M. Griffey, Mu
Liza Pugliese Hallsten, Alpha Omega
Miekleen D. Hart, Sigma
+Katharine Irwin, Pi
Kristin Koppen, Delta Chi
Suzanne Rizer Kuch, Nu, in memory of Helen Suzanne Sayre Rizer, Gamma Delta
Barbara Schultz Lynch, Alpha Beta
Cheryl Maize, Delta Omicron
Kandi Murphy McCasland, Psi
K. Knox Nunnally
MerLynn Harris Pitcher, Beta Xi
Tamara Taylor Pluth, Delta Upsilon
Susan Seefeldt Rehorn, Zeta Pi
+Mary Ann Rokovich, Gamma Eta
Anonymous, Delta Pi
Babs Sandeen, Epsilon Psi
Linda Wisner Sanford, Beta Eta
+Mereta Spitler, Beta Epsilon
+Jeanne Scharnberg Staff, Alpha Mu
Sheffra Brown Stauder, Psi
Joan Rossin Stephans, Alpha Iota
Karen Schaffer Stewart, Beta Epsilon
Collegiate Chapters
Kappa, University of WisconsinMadison Nu, University of Colorado Boulder
Alpha Phi, The University of Texas at Austin
Alpha Psi, UCLA
Beta Lambda, University of Arizona
Beta Sigma, University of Georgia
Beta Psi, Louisiana Tech University
Gamma Rho, Texas Tech University
Delta Kappa, Sam Houston State University
Delta Omega, University of Kentucky
Epsilon Tau, Virginia Tech
Zeta Pi, Arizona State University
Theta Upsilon, University of South Carolina
Alumnae Chapters
Beta Kappa Beta, Dallas, TX
Mu Mu, Kansas City, MO
OLIVE IMPACT
($50,000 - $99,999)
Shelly Stone Armstrong, Psi
Susan Arndt, Alpha
Ruth Ann Bartlett, Beta Sigma
Emilie Van Hook Beagle, Upsilon
Lisa Griffin Bliss, Gamma Rho
Jennifer Lynch Butler, Beta Eta
Sally Ost Callahan, Alpha Lambda
Susan Esco Chandler, Psi
Heather L. Coleman, Delta Psi
Sheila Dolan, Omega
Whitney Staker Fenech, Beta Xi
+Rita Geiger, Delta Rho
Pam Haymes Graham, Alpha Phi
Angela Costley Harris, Alpha Beta
Kristin Himsel, Alpha
+Jeanne Rummell Karr, Alpha Sigma
Kelly Lynn Kilgour, Kappa Nu
Jessica Penland Lahey, Gamma Zeta
Patricia Bates Mattingley, Beta Zeta
Hon. Margaret Lisbeth Maxwell, Beta Lambda
Nancy Orwick McCamon, Alpha Eta
Niki Kennedy McCann, Zeta Sigma
Leslie Luecke Moss, Gamma Rho
Jane Hand Pefanis, Psi
+Nancy Brockow Polimer, Epsilon
Jensy Patterson Richards, Sigma
Britain Dwyre Riley, Beta Eta
Gloria Ann Bohler Rogers, Beta Eta
Theresa Kawase Rovira, Epsilon Kappa
Judy Hendricks Schubert, Alpha Mu
Alma Gates Scroggins, Alpha Upsilon
Aggie Theresa Steiner, Beta Eta
Jane Elizabeth Thessin, Beta Theta
Lauren P. Turner in honor of Taylor Turner (Iota Sigma, Southern Methodist University)
Collegiate Chapters
Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota
Alpha Chi, Butler University
Beta Nu, University of Utah
Gamma Theta, University of Maryland
Gamma Mu, Ball State University
Gamma Nu, San Diego State University
Gamma Upsilon, University of Houston
Delta Pi, University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Epsilon Kappa, California State University, Fullerton
Epsilon Lambda, The University of Texas at Arlington
Theta Pi, University of California, Davis
Theta Psi, Columbia University
Iota Rho, Loyola University Chicago
Kappa Mu, The University of Texas at Tyler
Kappa Rho, University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Kappa Sigma, The University of Southern Mississippi
S CARLET IM PACT
( $ 25,000 - $4 9, 999)
Judy Evans Anderson, Alpha Lambda
Jari Askins, Psi
Brittan Bailey, Iota Sigma
Fran Steele Barford, Alpha Omega
Mita Minnett Bates, Psi
+Sally McBride Beam, Alpha Mu
Dr. Caryn Beck-Dudley, Beta Xi
Judy Barrett Benning, Epsilon Zeta
Kathy Gallagher Bickford, Gamma Epsilon
Alexandra Binder, Iota Sigma
Diane Wilson Blackwelder, Omicron
+Marilyn Paddock Blanch, Gamma Iota
Leslie Abramsky Block, Theta Tau
Georgia Stevens Boatman, Alpha Rho
Diane Polin Boone, Beta Tau
Cathy Smith Boragno, Delta Sigma
Lynn Janetzky Bower, Epsilon Kappa
Priscilla Pringle Boyd, Phi
Jenn Dunwoodie Brackett, Gamma Sigma
Mikelle Holt Brady, Alpha
Amber Brown, Psi
Louise Powell Cassingham, Psi
Kathleen Whittemore Castro, Alpha Psi
Monica M. Cepero, Beta Eta
Elizabeth Rios Chanfrau, Beta Eta
Kathleen Chavez, Alpha Upsilon
Charles E. Cheever Family in honor of Helen Cheever (Iota Sigma, Southern Methodist University)
Sarah Posey Click, Epsilon Phi
Suzanne Artenian Cobb, Epsilon
Jennifer Rose Daurora, Delta
Julie Richards Davis, Alpha Mu
Kitty Cannon deKieffer, Epsilon Kappa
Siobhan Gilleran Dixon, Psi
Polly Kubesch Dobbs, Gamma Mu
Barbara Green Durrett, Psi
JoAnn Bargiel Eisenberg, Iota
Diane Ellis Erdman, Kappa
+Marcia Jones Everson, Sigma
Kaye L. Evleth, Delta Psi
Jan Cardene Faulkner, Beta Eta
Mary Lynn Ferguson-McHugh, Delta Sigma
Allison J. Foster, Gamma Chi
Sylvia Miller Foster, Beta Eta
Lorna Stoakes Fox, Alpha Lambda
Caroline Shackelford Fulmer, Delta Pi
Katie Lampinen Gaffin, Delta Zeta
Cassie Gerhardt, Alpha Pi
Robin Rodgers Gladstein, Psi
Marilyn Smith Grace, Psi
+Sylvia LeCount Harder, Alpha Upsilon
Nancy Irish Harman, Gamma Rho
Julia Kaps Harris, Delta Rho
Tara Summers Hasenpflug, Gamma Epsilon
Marsha Harris Haubelt, Psi
Michelle Mattox Hawes, Beta Xi
+Carol Schepman Hendrickson, Xi
Karin Swisher Hotchkiss, Beta Eta
Janis Rose Hurter, Zeta Omicron
+Carol Edmundson Hutcheson, Epsilon Zeta
Stephanie Marie King, Theta Tau
Mary Beth Holley Lake, Epsilon Phi
Sharon Albert Lease, Gamma Tau
Donald Lee
Shirley Smith LeForge, Delta Theta
Christy Lindsay
+Doris Duermit Matthews, Alpha Delta
Maxine Bizon Mazur, Alpha Tau
Anne McInnis, Delta Psi
Holly Dorsey Meidl, Beta Sigma
Valerie Molina Morrison, Theta Sigma
Teresa McAffee O’Donnell, Psi
Urvashi Patel, Epsilon Omega
Diane Kaskewsky Perreault, Gamma Sigma
Kim Wood Phillips, Alpha Beta
Carol Swanson Ritchie, Phi
Carol Mansfield Schlessman, Gamma Delta
Kristine Ludwig Scoon, Kappa
Jane Grabowski Seifert, Gamma Omega
Anonymous, Sigma
Leslie Smith Sinyard, Beta Sigma
Gail Panarello Smith, Epsilon Phi
Susan Campbell Squires, Beta Eta
Joyce Mulholland St. Clair, Alpha Mu
Barb Stabno in honor of Macey and Nicolette Stabno (Iota Sigma, Southern Methodist University)
Darlene Gates Stevenson, Gamma Delta
Lynne Wesche Strasser, Alpha Eta
Renee Clemente Suchara, Beta Epsilon
Suzie McClendon Symcox, Psi
Melissa Ford Taylor, Alpha Upsilon
Terri Smolko Valenti, Gamma Iota
Maggie Dulay Ward, Epsilon Theta
Teresa Nash Warner, Psi
Lee Yoder Welborn, Epsilon Phi
Lynette Lemon Wert, Psi
Bonnie Wilson Williams, Beta Eta
Susan Johnson Wilson, Beta Lambda
Julie Crider Wisbrock, Phi
Eileen O’Shea Wrubel, Kappa Nu
Penny Passaro Zamkov, Lambda
Collegiate Chapters
Delta, Allegheny College
Rho, University of Washington
Alpha Beta, Purdue University
Alpha Mu, Indiana University
Alpha Nu, University of Missouri
Alpha Omicron, The Ohio State University
Beta Epsilon, Michigan State University
Beta Rho, American University
Beta Tau, Miami University
Beta Phi, Bowling Green State University
Gamma Epsilon, Oklahoma State University
Gamma Zeta, Kansas State University
Gamma Iota, University of Florida
Gamma Chi, Stetson University
Delta Nu, Iowa State University
Delta Rho, University of Arkansas
Epsilon Nu, Boise State University
Epsilon Upsilon, Mississippi State University
Epsilon Chi, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Zeta Omicron, Vanderbilt University
Zeta Sigma, Missouri State University
Zeta Tau, Villanova University
Theta Lambda, Clemson University
Iota Psi, Elon University
Kappa Nu, Carnegie Mellon University
Kappa Omicron, High Point University
Kappa Pi, University of North Carolina Wilmington
GREENCASTLE IMPACT
($10,000 - $24,999)
Christine Turner Ashburn, Beta Eta
Alyse Lee Bailey, Psi
Maria Telli Bailey, Beta Eta
Mary Kacmarcik Baker, Delta Mu
Cindy Hoard Ballard, Zeta Rho
Dr. Paula Curlee Barnes, Delta Rho
Katelynn Sexton Bass, Gamma Epsilon
Dianne Reaugh Bauman, Psi
Patty Reilman Beaver, Epsilon Phi
Donna Woods Beckman, Psi
Bonnie Bacnik Biggs, Epsilon Chi
Lindsay Blanton
Erin Schmidt Bley, Psi
Maya Lippert Botvinick, Epsilon Kappa
Marita Bowden, Beta Lambda
Lisa Renee Brock, Beta Eta
Kathy Wise Butkiewicz, Alpha Chi
Sue Witten Butler, Iota Alpha
Lorraine Riffle Caron, Beta Sigma
Susan Nunamaker Carr, Psi
Megan Castles Sittig, Delta Rho
Jordan Chambers, Iota Sigma
Jenny Winterstein Champlin, Psi
Tiffany Mordini Chapman, Beta Eta
Deborah Goldacker Chaves, Beta Eta
Amy Ford Chinouth, Iota Chi
Mary Challinor Cole, Phi
June Smith Cook, Alpha Mu
Kathryn DiLeo Copple, Beta Psi
Nicole Benton Costello, Beta Eta
+Barb Jones Coussement, Alpha Iota
Holly Michaels Cowx, Gamma Iota
+Dena Jones Crooke, Psi
Jan Culver, Beta Tau
Leslie Peterson Cunningham, Gamma Rho
Jan Wenzinger Curschman, Beta Phi
Laisha Morales Daley, Beta Eta
Judith Greig Danziger, Beta Epsilon
Mary Gratton Davids, Chi
+Lillian Davis, Alpha Phi
Lee Roberts Denney, Gamma Epsilon
Jean Chapuran Durling, Beta Tau
Kristin Miller Edwards, Beta Epsilon
JoEllen Breshock Eidam, Alpha Beta
Beverly Green Ellis, Psi
Virginia Bentley Ellis, Beta Sigma
Abby Moore Elmore, Beta Sigma
Linda Kabrich Evans, Beta Eta
Rita Poetter Evans, Beta Sigma
Rosemary Fairhead, Delta Rho
Judy Garwood Fecel, Alpha Beta
Susan S. Fiorito, Ph.D., Beta Eta
Sherry Snell Forsee, Delta Epsilon
Nancy Widmer Freeman, Alpha Beta
Alice Young Freidline, Gamma Rho
Shannon Gallagher-Bolton, Pi
Lisa West Garbe, Gamma Rho
Patty Renick Garrard, Beta Eta
Traci Simpson Gerdes, Gamma Chi
Anne Folrath Gerhart, Alpha Nu
Camilyn Martin Germann, Beta Sigma
Laura Morrison Glenn, Beta Epsilon
Heidi Boehm Grau, Beta Eta
Martha Clubine Gschneidner, Delta Nu
+Alice Dahlquist Hackett, Alpha Beta
Ann Weston Hallse, Iota
Lisa Hancock, Epsilon Rho
Sandra L. Harris, Beta Eta
Michelle Nettle Hays, Iota Sigma
Annamarie Geppert Hellebusch, Zeta Omicron
Amanda Williams Hene, Beta Sigma
Tracey Daniels Hickey, Beta Sigma
Deirdre Reason Hill, Epsilon Zeta
Stacey Brandhorst Hollopeter, Gamma Epsilon
Marie Sexton Holmes, Beta Eta
Robbie Kimbrel Howard, Beta Sigma
Stefanie Weaver Jackson, Beta Eta
Diane Marcucci Janaros, Gamma Sigma
Holly Culpepper, Epsilon Phi
Lisa Pettett Jeran, Zeta Upsilon
Aimee Phipps Joanos, Beta Eta
Elizabeth Tschatschula Jones, Gamma Rho
Alissa Kaiser, Iota Sigma
Amy Carrigan Katz, Beta Sigma
Christine Kelley, Psi
+Helene Morlock Kemp, Alpha Sigma
Jane Francis Kenney, Psi
Melanie Brammer Kilgore, Delta Upsilon
Amanda King, Zeta Nu
Gay Elder Kirby, Psi
+Flo Ott Kirschbaum, Gamma
Stacey Kimel Kitchens, Beta Sigma
Marie Russell Klaer, Epsilon Phi
Donna McGrath Klinge, Epsilon Kappa
Julie Black Kolman, Delta Kappa
Sherri Lance in honor of Kaytee Waters (Psi, The University of Oklahoma)
Bobbi Lubberstedt Larsen, Xi
Meghan Green, Epsilon Phi
Maree Rose Magliocchetti, Alpha Tau
+Jean Bengel Laughlin, Beta
Diane Misenheimer Lee, Gamma Epsilon
Donald Lee in honor of Melinda Lee (Gamma Rho, Texas Tech University)
Anonymous, Kappa Lambda
Yvonne Lentz-Kelley, Nu
Jo-Ann M. Little, Gamma Sigma
Robin Diller MacMorran, Beta
Thomasina Pierce Madden, Zeta Eta
Fran Kinsey Maddox, Iota Sigma
Katy Harrison Madsen, Psi
Audra Sinclair Mahnke, Delta
Mary Carter Duncan Martin, Alpha Nu
Yvette Martinez, Zeta Nu
Suzanne Sackleh Masters, Delta Pi
Michele Norton Mattoon, Rho
Kim Baldwin McClure, Gamma Omicron
Susan Terry McLendon, Gamma Phi
Katherine Wilson McNeil, Alpha Eta
Karen Aunan Miley, Alpha Lambda
April Elizabeth Millaway, Psi
Sherry Wetzel Morgan, Beta Sigma
Ashley Hubbard Moynihan, Epsilon Phi
Diane Davis Murphy, Epsilon Psi
+Marvy Stueber Nankovitch, Alpha Delta
Glenda Smith Neely, Beta Sigma
Beverly Wood Nichols, Alpha Nu
Ann Olson, Alpha Pi
Pamela Miller Ottesen, Beta Eta
Louisa Pack in honor of Macy Pack (Iota Sigma, Southern Methodist University)
Jan Johnson Percy, Delta Phi
Joan M. Perry, Zeta Lambda
Lynn Petrelli, Epsilon Lambda
Judy Ziegler Phillips, Gamma Lambda
+Barbara Baker Pierce, Lambda
Susan Sutherland Pina, Epsilon Phi
Janet Romberg Pollack, Nu
Lisa Pollina, Gamma Xi
Sara Elizabeth Walling Pollock, Theta Upsilon
Tammy Aikman Powell, Psi
+Ernie Hon Pyle, Gamma Delta Anonymous, Epsilon Kappa
+Janet Hickox Radford, Chi
Karen Carwile Rayburn, Zeta Lambda
Bridget Guernsey Riordan, Gamma Mu
Cynthia Hearn Robbins, Epsilon Phi
Kelli Rodriguez, Theta Pi
Shirley Voltz Rogers, Gamma Theta
Stanley & Karen Rose
Christina DeMello Sechrest, Theta Omicron
Kara Dawn Sheets, Gamma Epsilon
Ann Jennings Shepard, Mu
Margi Richey Shostedt, Alpha Lambda
Sheri Shoup, Alpha Phi
Kara Wehby Shuror, Epsilon Lambda
Stephanie York Sibley, Gamma Nu
Mari-jean Oswald Siehl, Alpha Omicron
Kristen Sims
Sandy Campbell Singleton, Gamma Rho
Ann Luer Skipper, Beta Eta
Marlene Whitehead Small, Epsilon Lambda
Susan Schmedinghoff Smith, Gamma Sigma
Susan Brookshire Smith, Psi
Alice E. Snedeker, Epsilon Phi
Bradley Stolshek in memory of Dee
Dee Bychak Stolshek (Epsilon Kappa, California State University, Fullerton)
Marilyn Manning Taylor, Beta Sigma
Michelle Wheeler Touchstone, Epsilon Phi
Beth Trerotola, Gamma Delta
Janice R. Van Ekeren, Delta Nu
Chere Vinson in honor of Taylor Vinson (Iota Sigma, Southern Methodist University)
Lindsay Ferrell Vise, Omicron
Nancy Spanich Waiss, Omega
Sara Williams Walker, Beta Sigma
Betty Beard Wall, Psi
Rusty Wallis in honor of Jessica Wallis (Psi, The University of Oklahoma)
Donna Williams Weaver, Psi
Charlotte Jones Weeks, Psi
Larry and Irene Weir
Kyle L. Weir in memory of Karen Weir (Omega, Washington State University)
Mary Seybold Welch, Alpha Beta
+Suzanne Bransom Wester, Beta Eta
Jan Hanzel Whitlow, Alpha Nu
LouAnn Pfeifer Wilcox, Alpha Nu
Susan Mauger Wilcox, Beta Eta
Jennifer Williams in honor of Morgan Williams (Iota Sigma, Southern Methodist University)
Lynn A. Wittenburg, Beta Eta
Corinne E. Wolffe, Zeta Eta
Linda Burnham Yawn, Beta Sigma
Diane Claes Young, Epsilon Tau
Collegiate Chapters
Epsilon, University of Southern California
Theta, University of Michigan
Iota, University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign
Lambda, Syracuse University
Sigma, University of Iowa
Upsilon, Millikin University
Phi, University of Kansas
Omega, Washington State University
Alpha Kappa, University of Oregon
Beta Delta, College of William & Mary
Beta Xi, Utah State University
Beta Pi, Washington College
Beta Omega, The University of Toledo
Gamma Pi, University of Tampa
Gamma Sigma, University of Rhode Island
Gamma Tau, Oklahoma City University
Delta Epsilon, Southeast Missouri State University
Epsilon Zeta, Auburn University
Epsilon Omicron, Indiana State University
Epsilon Omega, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo
Zeta Lambda, University of Virginia
Zeta Chi, Muhlenberg College
Zeta Psi, Loyola University New Orleans
Theta Iota, Baylor University
Theta Tau, Rutgers University
Iota Xi, University of California, Riverside
Iota Chi, Middle Tennessee State University
Kappa Lambda, University of San Diego
Alumnae Chapters
Alpha Gamma Alpha, Atlanta, GA
Iota Lambda Iota, Lake County, IL
Design with Connection in Mind
BY KENDALL SUESS (GAMMA EPSILON, OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY), HOUSING OPERATIONS COORDINATOR
At the center of all National Housing Corporation (NHC) projects are sisterhood and connection. We do this by incorporating Alpha Chi Omega elements in unique ways throughout chapter facilities. Collaborating closely with vendors such as designers, architects and contractors, the NHC is able to include Alpha Chi Omega and specific chapter history within the walls of the facility that collegiate members and alumnae feel connected to. The NHC also works closely with chapter project teams (often consisting of the chapter president, vice president facility operations and their respective advisors) when doing projects to make sure the chapter feels at home and connected to its spaces.
Alpha Chi Omega branding, including symbols, colors and mottos, brings a sense of belonging to members, and it is important to the NHC to incorporate this into the design and décor of a chapter facility. Working together with interior design firms such as Raegan Ford Interior Design and PDR Interiors, the NHC is able to blend the elements of home design and Alpha Chi Omega identity together to create a sense of pride and connection for members. When working with these interior design companies, the local chapter project team often meets with the NHC during the planning phases to help select furniture, paint colors and artwork.
The Beta Lambda (University of Arizona) facility has incorporated Alpha Chi Omega’s identity into décor. In the entry way, there are sixteen molds of the lyre hung on the wall in a of variety shades within the Alpha Chi Omega color palette. Underneath the formal staircase,
FRAMED PHOTOS UNDER THE BETA LAMBDA FORMAL STAIRCASE; PHOTO COURTESY OF ANDIE BARTICK (BETA LAMBDA)
framed yearbook photos of the founding members of Beta Lambda chapter are displayed, tying in the chapter’s history with the current facility and collegians in a special way.
BETA LAMBDA ENTRY WAY; PHOTO COURTESY OF RAEGAN FORD INTERIOR DESIGN
Furniture is another way the NHC brings Alpha Chi Omega to life in our chapter facilities. Chairs, desks, bunk beds and more have design elements like letters and colors that bring a personal touch to the furniture and foster a sense of belonging. Zeta Nu (Texas A&M University) and Epsilon Chi (University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill) have custom furniture that adds to their facilities’ personality.
Branding reinforces shared values and further enhances the sense of community within a chapter. Check out some other ways the NHC has worked with vendors to make our chapter facilities feel like home!
A BRANDED RUG IN THE ENTRY WAY OF ALPHA (DEPAUW UNIVERSITY)
AT EPSILON PHI (GEORGIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY), THE SYMPHONY IS PRINTED ON THE WALL IN THE STAIRWELL
A CUSTOM NEON SIGN HANGING ON THE WALL AT BETA NU (UNIVERSITY OF UTAH)
WOODEN CHAIRS AT ZETA NU (TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY) WITH OUR GREEK LETTERS ON THE CHAIRBACKS
BUNK BEDS AT EPSILON CHI (UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHAPEL HILL) WITH OUR GREEK LETTERS ON THE SAFETY RAIL
BETA SIGMA (UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA) ENTRY WAY WITH A CUSTOM FLOOR INLAY
Welcome to the NHC!
BY KENDALL SUESS (GAMMA EPSILON, OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY), HOUSING OPERATIONS COORDINATOR
The National Housing Corporation (NHC) is excited to welcome Alpha Lambda (University of Minnesota) and Alpha Eta (University of Mount Union) chapters this summer as the facilities transition over from being managed by local house corporations (LHC) of alumnae volunteers to the
ALPHA LAMBDA (UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA)
Alpha Lambda was founded at the University of Minnesota and established on September 30, 1921. The original Alpha Lambda house on 514 11th Street was occupied by chapter members until 1966 when the chapter moved into its current facility on University Avenue. The facility can currently house up to 52 members. Over the past several years the LHC completed a common area renovation that improved the kitchen serving area, dining room, living room and TV room.
NHC. Both chapters were established in the early 1920s, and their local house corporations oversaw all of the facilities’ operations for many years. The NHC is thankful for all of the work done by these dedicated LHCs and their commitment to making these chapter facilities home to many Alpha Chi Omega members. The NHC is excited to work with Alpha Lambda and Alpha Eta for many years to come and to continue to improve the housed member experience. Here are a few historical housing facts about the newly transitioned chapters!
THE ORIGINAL ALPHA LAMBDA CHAPTER FACILITY ON 11 TH STREET
ALPHA ETA (UNIVERSITY OF MOUNT UNION)
Established on June 11, 1920, our Alpha Eta chapter was founded at the University of Mount Union. In 1927, the chapter held a house dedication for its first facility on Simpson Street. The Alpha Eta local house corporation was formed in 1962 with the goal of building a new chapter facility, which was completed in 1964. In May 2024, after years of thoughtful discussion, the LHC sold the facility to the University of Mount Union, and the NHC will lease it back for the chapter’s use. This is consistent with other Greek organizations on campus and allows dues and fees to be more competitive. The university is also completing renovations to the house this summer including a first floor ADA bathroom, adding air conditioning, and creating new single bedrooms that will increase occupancy from one member to five!
SKETCH DRAWING OF THE ORIGINAL ALPHA ETA CHAPTER FACILITY FROM THE 1927 DEDICATION PROGRAM
THE ALPHA ETA CHAPTER FACILITY BEFORE THIS SUMMER’S RENOVATIONS
Connecting to the Collegiate Experience
BY LAUREN FILIPPINI (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER
“It’s not four years, it’s for life.” This is a common phrases you hear about the sorority experience – and for good reason! At initiation, you accept lifelong membership. Alpha Chi Omega promises each member continued growth, connections and involvement that extend beyond college and fit with your needs and wants at any stage of life. One of these can be opportunities to connect back to the collegiate experience where it all began.
The Alpha Chi Omega collegiate experience is supported by a vast team of volunteers, including advisors, specialists, local house corporation board members and province officers. For many alumnae, volunteering with their chapter of initiation is a great way to stay connected with the chapter that brought them into the sisterhood.
“When I heard there was an opening to give back to the chapter that had given me so much, I knew I had to say yes,” says Natalie Zepeda, the recruitment and membership programming advisor for her chapter of initiation, Delta Pi (University of Tennessee, Knoxville). “Alpha Chi Omega has been instrumental in my continued growth as a friend, leader, and person. I could not imagine not having continued my involvement with Alpha Chi past my collegiate years.” You can read more about Natalie’s volunteer experience, alongside fellow chapter sister and advisor Carrie Stafford, in this issue’s Volunteer Spotlight on page 50.
With collegiate chapters across the country, many of our sisters find new connections with other collegiate chapters than the one they were initiated into. In fact, almost half of our chapter advisors volunteer with a
different chapter! Whether they’ve moved away from their college town, want a new perspective or saw a need at another chapter, they are making a difference and new connections.
Jessica Lahey is one of these volunteers; an initiate of the Gamma Zeta chapter at Kansas State University, she took on many volunteer roles with Alpha Chi Omega (including as an alumnae chapter officer and a province alumnae chair) before becoming the chapter advisor of Iota Chi at Middle Tennessee State University. She shares that a highlight of volunteering with a different chapter is “continuing to meet and build relationships with more sisters, whether it’s the current collegiate women or the local alumnae in the area that I didn’t already know.”
While sharing the common bond of Alpha Chi Omega, the two chapters are quite different – Gamma Zeta was founded in 1947 on a traditional Big 12 campus while Iota Chi was founded in 2002 (and thus has a smaller alumnae base) on a campus with many nontraditional and commuter students. Putting in the effort to understand the different experiences has helped Jessica grow in her role! “Seeing how Alpha Chi works differently on different campuses has forced me to embrace the idea that we don’t have to do something
JESSICA LAHEY (FOURTH FROM RIGHT) WITH IOTA CHI COLLEGIANS AND ADVISORS
just because the chapter has done it before. If an event, activity or tradition is no longer serving our members, it’s easier for me to say, ‘Let’s change it up and do something different.’”
As a bonus to members, Jessica has also been able to connect officers and advisors across schools and emphasize the value of lifetime engagement with Alpha Chi Omega! She sums up her experience by saying, “No two chapters are the same, just like no two members are the same. The sorority experience may look different on different campuses or in different stages of our lives, but [Alpha Chi Omega] always has something to offer us, just like we always have something to offer back to her.”
The sisters of Tau Upsilon Tau alumnae chapter are the newest example of another way sisters maintain and grow connections with their collegiate experience – alumnae chapters for graduates of the same chapter of initiation. Tau Upsilon Tau was established just this year for Alpha Psi (UCLA) initiates.
76 CHAPTER ADVISORS
VOLUNTEER WITH THEIR CHAPTER OF INITIATION
72 CHAPTER ADVISORS
VOLUNTEER WITH A DIFFERENT CHAPTER
27 ALUMNAE CHAPTERS ARE BASED ON CONNECTING ALUMNAE FROM THE SAME CHAPTER OF INITIATION, EITHER VIRTUALLY OR IN A BLENDED MODEL
“It was so important to provide a place where sisters could reconnect and make new Alpha Psi friends,” explain co-presidents Natalie Kaye and Karen Lynch about the new chapter’s goals. “We wanted to bring the magic of a diverse alum membership to our UCLA sisters, whether they were local or across the country.” Creating virtual bonds requires creativity, and Tau Upsilon Tau’s first annual summer reunion saw sisters participating in speed dating-style conversations, first with sisters from the same decade of initiation and later with sisters across generations. “We offered
CO-PRESIDENTS NATALIE KAYE AND KAREN LYNCH
question prompts to help spur conversations, but turns out they weren’t really needed!”
In addition to online meetings, the alumnae chapter members proudly support their collegiate sisters, including by donating supplies to the domestic violence shelter that Alpha Psi partners with. Tau Upsilon Tau’s next major project is working on Alpha Psi chapter’s 2026 centennial. (Natalie and Karen encourage interested Alpha Psi initiates to email AlphaPsiVirtual@ gmail.com to get involved in the planning!)
The goal of building everlasting bonds – with each other and their collegiate chapter – underscores all of Tau Upsilon Tau’s work. Natalie and Karen share, “So many amazing women worked hard for the last 98 years to build our Alpha Psi sisterhood into what it is today, and we know what a privilege it is to step up and serve to create a fun and fulfilling alum experience for our fellow Bruins and remind them what lifetime engagement in Alpha Chi is all about.”
TAU UPSILON TAU HELD ITS SECOND VIRTUAL MEETING IN JUNE, A SUMMER KICK-OFF CELEBRATING ALPHA CHI!
Through the Lens
BY EMMA WILLE , MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR
Throughout our lives, we capture memories in photographs to cherish forever. And for Mia Ignazio, a collegiate member of the Lambda (Syracuse University) chapter, taking photos has meant uncovering her passion. “I’m passionate about creating emotional, raw work,” she says. “I believe photographing is one of the most beautiful things you can do and one of the most beautiful exchanges.” From her early fascination with capturing these beautiful moments, to overcoming her personal challenges through her craft, Mia’s journey is an example of the power of art.
Growing up in a small Massachusetts suburb, Mia fell in love with photography at a young age. “As a child on library visits, instead of picking through the newest books, I would beg my mom to photocopy images from old runway fashion show books so I could have my own collection at home,” she says. Her love didn’t stop there; at 7 years old, Mia staged a picture of herself and her sister, and since then the camera has never left her hand.
MIA EARNED THE OPPORTUNITY OF A LIFETIME TO SHOOT FASHION EDITORIALS, INCLUDING THIS PHOTO, IN ICELAND THE SUMMER BEFORE COLLEGE
Mia continued to immerse herself in any form of photography or film she could. “My first taste of filmmaking was, of course, a little horror movie moment in 5th grade – [with] an iPod and a dream. Entering middle school, my interest in photography peaked, and I began staging photoshoots to do with my friends around town,” she says. She soon was manifesting her dream of being the “cool girl with the camera,” learning not by taking classes but by taking pictures and “finding out what worked and what didn’t.”
Mia’s efforts were soon interrupted when she was left with a severe concussion after an accident in high school. She says, “Reading was impossible for a year, going to school was a challenge, and my life revolved around finding new treatments. What saved me was tapping into my creativity.” Still dealing with daily headaches, Mia accepted that this pain would continue to be part of her life, and instead of letting it hold her back, she decided to embrace the unique perspective it offered her. She shares, “I believe that my chronic pain is a huge influence in the work I create and is a part of me.”
MIA SAYS OF HER PHOTOS (LIKE THIS ONE), “MY WORK IS DRIVEN BY EMOTION, LIGHT, THE INTRICACY OF THE HUMAN BODY, CONNECTION AND NATURE. MAKING MY SUBJECTS FEEL BEAUTIFUL, COMFORTABLE AND SUPPORTED IS ESSENTIAL IN MY PRACTICE.”
With college just around the corner, she knew that she wanted to follow her passion professionally, looking into schools with fine art photography and cinema production programs. When it was time to apply, Mia decided to showcase her experience with chronic pain in her art. “I created my own short film that I wrote, directed, filmed and edited and at the same time created an entire collection of self-portraiture depicting my struggle with chronic pain,” she says. Through her hard work and vulnerable projects, Mia was accepted into The School of Visual and Performing Arts at Syracuse University, majoring in fine art study.
Before taking the big leap to college, Mia made an even bigger jump into the photography world. The summer before starting school, she traveled to Iceland to participate in photoshoots for fashion editorials. “I was beyond terrified and intimidated. I was the youngest person there and kept my age quiet until the last day,” she says about her thrilling adventure.
The two-day experience was led by Cara Mia, Mia’s favorite photographer, and her creative team. On the set, Mia and the other photographers were presented with a wide variety of editorial set-ups full of gowns, suits and couture pieces. Along with taking photos, Mia met and observed famous photographers from across the globe, including Oghalé Alex (named by PhotoVogue as one of “The Next Great Fashion Image Makers”).
The whole experience completely shifted how Mia viewed creating art. “The first hour, I trekked up a mountain with 20 other photographers and looked out on top of a fjord – a pinch-me moment! It was truly surreal and cemented into me that this is the kind of work I want to do for the rest of my life,” she says.
Now in college, Mia has not only kept up with her love for art but has also begun to inspire other students. “On campus, I am one of the founders of Matchbox Films, an independent filmmaking house, and I’ve had the honor of being director of art and design. It hasn’t even been a full year, and we have more than 100 members,” she says.
Along with starting a new outlet for expression, Mia has fostered friendships that help fuel her creativity, particularly in Alpha Chi Omega. “I feel so much support from them in all my endeavors and especially in my creative work. I have found my forever family here,” she says. “Being a member has allowed me to find parts of myself I didn’t know even existed with people I know will be in my life forever.”
So, what’s in store for the future? Mia hopes to continue following her passion. “My intention for the future is to work for a fashion magazine in a beautiful city surrounded by people I love,” she says. No matter where she goes, Mia is sure to continue capturing life’s most beautiful moments.
IGNAZIO
MIA
Building Resilience and Writing Your Story
BY RANDI CRAWFORD (ZETA TAU, VILLANOVA UNIVERSITY)
Since my children flew the coop, I’ve become obsessed with pickleball. In my opinion, it checks all the boxes. When we head over to the pickleball courts, we’re surrounded by people, IRL (in real life). We’re not on our cell phones, and we’re getting physical exercise, making new friends, soaking in vitamin D and learning lessons that will teach us to cope when things don’t go our way.
As a life coach who works with college-age women, I see incredible young ladies who work hard at school, in sorority life and hold down part-time jobs, all while balancing friends and family. So why are they working with me? Because the reality is that in their downtime, which is usually late at night, they scroll social media, and it makes them feel worthless. If anyone told me that social media doesn’t impact their mental health, I’d call their bluff. We compare our life to what we see on “the Gram,” even when we know that people are just posting the “glossy” version of their life, using filters and curating a life they want us to believe is true. I cannot tell you how many young women I work with who admit they post pictures that make them look like they’re having a great time, when in reality, they’re miserable.
I wish I could take away your pain when things don’t go your way, when you feel left out of a group activity or when you feel like you don’t measure up. But the best way you can become resilient in the face of this adversity is to rewrite your story. How do you become
resilient and develop coping skills? It’s taking small steps toward living the life that you want and celebrating every step along the way – including the steps that involve failure! When you do what makes you feel happy, you gain confidence and won’t need to compare yourself on social media. Changing your mental game is easier than you think, but it starts with knowing what your narrative is today, and what you want it to be tomorrow. Once you write your story down, you will start to live it.
As parents, our job is to help our kids write their story, not to write it for them. And each story requires finding the value in challenges. We strive to raise our kids to be strong, but the problem is that we do a lot for our kids because it hurts us more to watch them struggle than for them to actually struggle. We figure that if we just fix it, it will get done faster and better. But by doing this, we are creating learned helplessness. Our kids start to rely on us for everything because that’s all they’ve known.
If your daughter makes the cheer team but isn’t in the stunt group that she wants, don’t text the coach and have her moved. Let your daughter work it out with the coach. Maybe she needs to be a higher level to be in that particular group. Maybe she is a fantastic base, and they need her skills in the group she’s in. Whatever the case, when you let her figure it out, everybody wins. Once she learns the coach needs her in a certain group to show the other girls how to catch the flyer, it will send her confidence through the roof. If you step in and interfere because she’s not happy, you’ve just stolen a life lesson that your daughter needs to learn on her own. We don’t intentionally steal from our kids. But when we remove adversity and don’t let them handle certain situations on their own, they also feel our lack of confidence in them.
RANDI CRAWFORD
It’s a lot like pickleball was for me. After I learned to play the game and started to return some hard shots, I would still lose the point, and it was incredibly frustrating. I had two options. I could get angry and decide this game isn’t for me because I’ll never be good enough. Or I could take lessons, start drilling, watch YouTube videos and ask friends for help. That’s the definition of grit. We shouldn’t run away when we don’t succeed at first. We can rewrite our story to be whatever we want, and we must be willing to learn from our failures along the way and make changes that we need.
When I went to Villanova, from a ranch in Weatherford, Texas, having Alpha Chi Omega provided me with a sisterhood that extended far beyond the
court, offering lifelong friendships. Ladies, lean on your community during challenging moments because we all need each other. We’re all going to fall, get frustrated and feel unworthy after doom-scrolling. Let’s change our story, set limits on our social media use, and only follow people and influencers who make us feel great about ourselves and fit into our new story. What do you want your story to be?
Here’s to sisterhood, lifelong friendships and lifting each other up!
You can learn more about Randi’s coaching business at randicrawfordcoaching.com.
A Sisterhood That Lasts and Grows
BY LAUREN FILIPPINI (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER
The Alpha Chi Omega experience is everlasting. While staying rooted in our heritage and values, the organization has continued to evolve to offer a membership that responds to the dreams and realities of women over time since our 1885 founding.
RECRUITMENT
Alpha Chi Omega started adding new members just days after the founding. As detailed in the 1948 History, “Each Founder selected one name, which she presented to the group for approval. These were voted upon by ballot, and all were accepted.” By the end of the 1885-86 school year, Alpha Chi Omega had grown from seven members to 22.
By the early 1900s, with the chapter roll expanding, recruitment became more important – and more structured. Rosita Hopps Nordwall (Epsilon, University of Southern California), who served as both National President and NPC chairman, said, “It was apparent to all that when there were several different chapters on the same campus there was a need to bring order into the rush for new members and that the term of ‘all is fair in rush and war’ was not the way to go.” Quota systems began to be implemented in the 1930s, a concept that continues today to balance new members across Panhellenic organizations.
RECRUITMENT THROUGH THE YEARS
• 1934: 1,753 COLLEGIATE MEMBERS
• 1960: 4,982 COLLEGIATE MEMBERS
• 1981: 7,898 COLLEGIATE MEMBERS
• 2023: 18,599 COLLEGIATE MEMBERS
The level of formality and complexity of recruitment has varied by decade
TOP: 1983 RECRUITMENT AT EPSILON UPSILON (MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY)
BOTTOM: 2024 RECRUITMENT AT DELTA KAPPA (SAM HOUSTON STATE UNIVERSITY)
and by chapter, from elaborate skits and songs in the 1950s and 60s to the less formal 1970s with this popular mindset: “Make a friend, then make that friend a sister.” While Alpha Chi Omega has always strived to focus on recruiting members that meet our standards, today’s goal of values-based recruitment drives this home.
Another throughline has been the importance of connecting with potential new members (PNMs) and promoting Alpha Chi Omega. “The best method of all seems to me to make your fraternity mean so much that everyone wants to be an Alpha Chi that knows you,” said Maude S. Steiner (Theta, University of Michigan), extension vice-president, in 1917. Today, members share their sisterhood stories with PNMs (and others!) face-to-face, at Panhellenic events and on social media.
ALUMNAE CHAPTERS
Reunions of sisters were plentiful in the 1890s, but Alpha Chi quickly decided to formalize alumnae engagement. Alpha Alpha (Chicago, Illinois) was our first alumnae chapter in 1906, with five more following in the Fraternity’s first 25 years. The 1911 Heraeum gave this impassioned plea for involvement: “There is no better way to prove your interest in helping Alpha Chi Omega realize her high ideals than by giving a little time and thought to the splendid work which may be done by Alumnae chapters.” Today, nearly 170 alumnae chapters provide the lifelong Real. Strong. Women. Experience.
VOLUNTEERS
Alpha Chi Omegas have always wanted to give back to their beloved organization, and this originally took the form of supporting collegiate chapters. An early Alpha Chi Omega history book, The First Fifty Years, shared about volunteers, “National altruistic programs have been made possible, and real service to their communities has been given … They have helped to train their members in good citizenship, as well as to keep their interest in the organization which played so large a part in molding their undergraduate years.”
GAMMA (LOS ANGELES, CA) MEMBERS IN 2023
BOTTOM: 1936-38 ALPHA
ALPHA (CHICAGO, IL) YEARBOOK
Alumnae chapter members have long been passionately involved in philanthropy and service, meeting the needs of the time. For example, during World War II, chapters were encouraged to designate a defense chairman to organize local defense needs and support the Red Cross. And it was two alumnae chapters, Delta Delta (West San Fernando Valley, California) and Alpha Kappa Alpha (Pasadena, California), that led the effort to adopt cerebral palsy as Alpha Chi Omega’s national philanthropy in 1947.
One newer twist on alumnae chapter membership is a virtual setup. While there is great value in bringing together sisters in the same area, members also have a desire to connect over common interests across the world! The first virtual chapter was Mu Tau Mu, established in 2004 for Zeta Upsilon (Case Western Reserve University) alumnae. Alpha Chi currently has 29 chapters that operate virtually or in a blended model.
While many collegiate chapters had informal or unofficial advisors, the role of volunteers quickly became more structured. As Alpha Chi Omega’s 191035 history book records, “Recognizing that collegiate chapters could best maintain the Fraternity’s high standards if they were exposed to the ongoing leadership and experience of Alpha Chi Omega alumnae, in 1908 a system of alumnae advisors was made a constitutional requirement.” Today, Alpha Chi Omega strives for each collegiate chapter to have an advisor for each executive board officer.
World War II saw the volunteer ranks shrink as many alumnae resigned their positions to enlist or support war efforts. But soon after, volunteers returned with fervor, and the late 1950s brought a major reorganization of the Fraternity’s volunteer structure. Today, more than 4,000 roles are filled by members and friends of Alpha Chi Omega, from national officers and chapter advisory positions to short-term application reviewers and event-specific facilitators.
TOP: GAMMA THETA
GAMMA MU GAMMA (PALO ALTO, CALIFORNIA) MEMBERS, CIRCA 1960
ALPHA CHI
OMEGA FOUNDATION
Since the beginning, our members and friends have been generous toward Alpha Chi Omega. Early giving took the form of several funds supported by individual and chapter contributions, dues and merchandise sales. One example was the Alta Allen Loud National Endowment Fund, established in 1910 as a scholarship fund, changed in 1912 to help finance chapter house building and ultimately becoming a reserve fund.
Leaders soon realized a larger effort was needed to support Alpha Chi Omega, particularly as collegiate dues couldn’t cover the full costs of programming and philanthropy. So in 1978, convention delegates unanimously adopted a resolution to establish the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation. As the 1960-85 history book says, the establishment of the Foundation “reflected a philosophical shift for Alpha Chi Omega, which in the past had not regularly solicited financial support from alumnae – and it became an opportunity for alumnae to more directly impact their sisterhood as it grew and evolved.”
Early on, the Foundation encouraged collegiate chapters to host frisbee golf tournaments to raise money; some of them still do this today! Countless other creative and educational philanthropic events have their impact amplified through today’s Community Impact program (previously called the Local Philanthropic Initiatives program) as money is raised for the Foundation and local nonprofits in the work to end domestic violence.
The Foundation is constantly growing its impact on Alpha Chi Omega and breaking its own records. The 2012 For Now Forever campaign set an impressive goal of raising $7 million; 12 years later, the Common Bond. Uncommon Impact. campaign surpassed its $25 million goal by raising more than $34 million (see the campaign report on page 26)! The Foundation’s work is felt by today’s members and will continue to make a difference for our organization for generations to come.
NATIONAL HOUSING CORPORATION
THE BETA (ALBION COLLEGE) LODGE IN 1895
THE BETA LAMBDA (UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA) FACILITY IN 2024
The first Alpha Chi Omega facility was for Beta chapter at Albion College in 1895 – a five-room brick lodge. By 1910, 10 of the 16 chapters had leased houses, and by 1924, nearly all chapters that didn’t currently own a house had a building committee dedicated to doing so. As then-National President Gladys Olmstead Graff (Zeta, New England Conservatory) said, “The advantages of living in and owning a chapter house are too obvious to require discussion.”
IN 1978, ALPHA CHI OMEGA HAD 107 CHAPTERS WITH THE FOLLOWING LIVING SITUATIONS:
• 68 CHAPTERS IN HOUSES
• 5 CHAPTERS IN LODGES
• 17 CHAPTERS IN SUITES
• 11 CHAPTERS IN PANHELLENIC BUILDINGS
• 2 CHAPTERS IN APARTMENTS
• 4 CHAPTERS IN OTHER SITUATIONS
LEFT: THE FIRST FOUNDATION BOARD OF TRUSTEES
RIGHT: GAMMA PHI (LAMAR UNIVERSITY) MEMBERS FUNDRAISE FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS IN 2023
By the mid-1950s, many facilities were being renovated, completing work that had been held up by the war. This – along with maintenance, repairs, finances and competition with residence halls – led local house corporations (LHCs) to be hailed as “unsung heroines” in this time. This not only mirrors the hard work done by today’s LHCs, but also foreshadowed the formation of a new entity at Alpha Chi Omega.
In 1996, the NHC became the third corporation of the Alpha Chi Omega Enterprise. That year’s issue of The Lyre reported that the NHC’s goals would be to support LHCs, assume responsibility for properties owned by the Fraternity, assess housing requirements in extension, implement plans for housed chapters without LHCs and establish records.
Today, the NHC has assets of nearly $95 million dollars, working with 13,000 members through the management of 78 spaces. From capital improvement plans to ongoing maintenance to new builds, the NHC carries on its commitment to providing safe, affordable and competitive facilities, believing what those early members did – that living with your sisters creates a transformational and everlasting impact.
PEARL STONE PARTNERS
While today it is Pearl Stone Partners that formally employs all house directors and other chapter-level employees, our earliest days saw many working to ensure the housed member experience. In the 1913 Lyre, we can read about the role of “the chaperone” in a chapter house, who “exerts the greatest influence over the girls by her charm, womanliness, and strength of character.” The 1937 Lyre lists one of the qualifications for a “housemother” to be that she “should have such a keen appreciation of the desirable things her girls do that they will cease to do the undesirable ones.”
Over the years, the chapter-level employee landscape grew more complex, with different needs at each of the Alpha Chi Omega facilities. The work of employing these people fell heavily on volunteer advisors, which as the 2018 Lyre shared, was “extremely taxing, challenging and frustrating.”
TOP: A “HOUSEMOTHER” VISITING WITH BETA SIGMA (UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA) COLLEGIANS IN 1955
BOTTOM: DELTA PI (UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE, KNOXVILLE) COLLEGIANS WITH THEIR HOUSE DIRECTOR IN 2024
Enter the fourth entity of Alpha Chi Omega: Pearl Stone Partners. In 2018, the LLC was established to serve as the employment hub for chapter-level employees. In addition to handling hiring, onboarding and performance management, Pearl Stone Partners develops tools and resources for employees, advisors and collegiate officers. This collaboration has resulted in a positive experience for all involved, like one house director recently shared, “Each day I know that no matter what challenges arise, I will be heard, respected, supported, encouraged and appreciated by my Pearl Stone people!”
Alpha Chi Omega is always seeking the heights, which means both leaning into our heritage and growing with the needs of our sisterhood. As we near a century and a half of Alpha Chi Omega, we know this sisterhood stands the test of time. For a deeper dive into Alpha Chi Omega through history, explore the history books available on issuu.com/alphachiomega or immerse yourself in our history website at alphachiomega. historyit.com.
Carrie Stafford and Natalie Zepeda
In each issue of The Lyre, we highlight the exceptional work of our volunteers. Read about the experiences of two Delta Pi (University of Tennessee, Knoxville) alumnae who are back serving with their chapter – Carrie Stafford (pictured right) as recruitment information advisor and Natalie Zepeda (pictured left) as recruitment and membership programming advisor.
HOW DID YOU START VOLUNTEERING?
Carrie: January 2023, more than 60 Delta Pi chapter members from the 90s had gathered in Franklin, TN to celebrate the life of our sister, Jessica Lea Beasley, after she passed away. After the event, we received an email that the chapter was trying to fill some advisory board positions. There’s not a visit to the Alpha Chi house where Jessica doesn’t cross my mind in some way. She is 100% the catalyst for my becoming an advisor.
Natalie: My good friend and former colleague asked me to consider joining the advisory board for Delta Pi while I was volunteering at Collegiate Growth Academy. When I heard there was an opening to give back to the chapter that has given me so much, I knew I had to say yes!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF ADVISING?
Carrie: Being an advisor means I get to listen, share my thoughts and watch it happen. I’m honored to spend so much time with these chapter members.
Natalie: I love working with the new officers and seeing them develop their leadership skills and increase their confidence. Acting as an unofficial mentor is so much fun!
IF THIS ARTICLE INSPIRED YOU TO SERVE, LOG IN TO MEMBERS.ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG AND SELECT “PROFILE” AND THEN THE “VOLUNTEER INTEREST” TAB TO FILL OUT YOUR VOLUNTEER INTEREST FORM!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF RECRUITMENT?
Carrie: I love seeing the friendships created and strengthened during pre-recruitment week. Our chapter is so large that even after a full year, we hear repeatedly about our women meeting someone new and finding a new best friend.
Natalie: My favorite part about recruitment is what it does each year for the active members. Women who haven’t yet met spend two weeks together talking about why they went Greek, why they chose Alpha Chi and planning for a future of sisterhood.
WHY SHOULD ALUMNAE VOLUNTEER?
Carrie: Volunteering comes in so many shapes and sizes. Start small and help your local alumnae chapter with Hall of Commitment. Or go my route and jump in headfirst! If you have just one meaningful conversation or teaching moment, you’ve done your job.
Natalie: You have an opportunity to see the organization in a new way and experience all of the joys of sisterhood with a new cohort of sisters. Serving the organization as a volunteer can open the doors to a renewed love for the organization.
Women & Wisdom
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With Women & Wisdom, you can find mentoring, events, groups, job opportunities, member and business directories, and connections with sisters sharing your interests and experiences. If you are looking to empower and support sisters in reaching their fullest potential, while investing in your personal and professional growth, Women & Wisdom is for you!
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PLATFORM HIGHLIGHT
START CONNECTING AT WOMENANDWISDOM.ORG!
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JUST IN CASE
Risa Mish (Zeta Phi, Cornell University) facilitated a session on cultivating confidence.
Sisters set the pace for mentorship through Convention Connections, our on-site mentoring experience, while in Indianapolis for our 62nd National Convention.
Sisters who participated in the program were matched with another attendee in a short-term mentoring relationship. They found a time to connect with each other in person to share and seek advice and support each other’s personal and professional development during the weekend!
PLATFORM HIGHLIGHT
RESOURCES
Our network is the place to grow and learn! Did you know you can find links to all our past Women & Wisdom Series recordings in a folder under the Resources section of the platform? You can also find messaging templates if you’re not sure how to start the conversation when reaching out to a sister for an informational interview, resume review or mentorship. Don’t miss out on learning a new skill or making a new connection – explore the resources available on the platform today!
Making Live Game Magic
BY LAUREN FILIPPINI (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER
No, Fran Rotella (Theta Tau, Rutgers University) can’t get you courtside seats to tonight’s NBA game. As the NBA’s associate vice president of live game production, Fran isn’t courtside herself. She doesn’t even have an arena seat – during games, she’s usually in a truck in a parking lot. But Fran can give you an inside look at how the game gets to your TV or smartphone, and she’s happy to share advice for sisters who want to follow in her footsteps!
An Emmy-winning sports media executive, Fran had her sights set on the television industry in college. After a few years at MTV, during which she fell in love with the live aspect of TV, she moved into sports, taking on roles at ESPN, the NFL Network, NBC Sports and now the NBA.
It was the love of storytelling that brought her to the sports industry. “I’m not an athlete,” she says, laughing.
“In my mind I am, but I know I’m not an athlete, although I did play in the Alpha Chi flag football event for charity years ago. I just love the stories of the athletes.”
Fran says some people questioned her jump from MTV News to sports, particularly as a woman. “If I was a male, no one would ever ask, ‘Do you really know about football?’ Yeah, I do … You have to study twice as hard.”
But with supportive colleagues and results that speak for themselves, Fran says, “I never felt like I was the only woman in the room, even when I was the only woman in the room.” And she uses her unique position to inspire more junior female employees to seek the heights and show them the path to executive levels. Fran adds, “I always try to hammer home [that] if there are two seats at the table, two women aren’t fighting over one seat.”
Fran thrives on the live aspect of television. “There’s nothing like it. It never gets old,” she says. “There’s just this rush, and you prepare for a bunch of different outcomes, and sometimes it goes as planned and sometimes it goes in a totally different way … The best producers are the ones that are willing to kind of veer off and throw the rundown out the window and just go with it.”
In her executive role with the NBA, Fran is tasked with innovating and thinking about the future of game broadcasts. When you watch a basketball game, are you watching on your TV? Or on your tablet with a streaming service? Fran has to think about both – and more! “At the end of the day, it [the game] still needs to be produced. It still needs to be high-quality,” Fran explains. “Maybe it’s shot in a slightly different way, maybe presented in a slightly different way … but [it’s still] the basic premise of storytelling and bringing fans into the arena.”
FRAN AT SUPER BOWL LVI
value of internships to not only provide experience but also help students understand what they want in a job. She explains, “I’ve had direct reports that said, ‘I think I want to go to law school.’ And I say, ‘Well, then that’s what you should do. And hey, if you want to come back to sports, you could be an agent, [and] teams have lawyers.’ There’s not one, defined career path. It’s wide open.”
A wide-open career path has been important to Fran, too, keeping her motivated through gaps in employment. When Fran’s NBC job was eliminated during the pandemic, she took on various projects for the network in the interim. That was the year she worked on the Super Bowl and the Olympics and won her first Emmy after 11 nominations. “It was a wild, wild year,” she says. “You have to remind yourself of your self-worth and know that the opportunities come.”
Key to finding those new opportunities? Networking. “It’s really about connections,” Fran says. In fact, her now-boss was a mutual acquaintance; she didn’t know Fran was unemployed (since she was keeping herself so busy with projects) and was looking for “someone doing what Fran does for NBC” when she was writing the job description. Another connection let Fran know of the opportunity, and Fran has been at the NBA since!
Fran is focused on the small details like camera angles, but also on the far reach of the NBA – from local broadcasts to national events to fans around the globe – and the ever-evolving technologies changing the way people experience a game. Her job is demanding, with work on nights, weekends and holidays, so she tries to take a step back and appreciate the incredible athletic events she’s been part of. She recalls, “I was on the ice after a Stanley Cup-clinching game, and I had to stop myself, like, ‘OK, take a moment and really remember this.’”
Juggling many priorities is a skill Fran learned from her collegiate days. Serving as the Theta Tau chapter president, Fran says she developed organization skills that helped her balance academics, sorority involvement and internships. She emphasizes the
“You have to not be shy about reaching out to people,” she encourages our job-seeking sisters. “It doesn’t matter what industry, it doesn’t matter what you want to do. People will always find time to talk about their experiences and their companies.”
And Fran says that network should include Alpha Chi Omega! “I honestly feel like I could use my Alpha Chi network to talk to anybody because you have this common bond.” Whether in professional contexts or personal connections, Fran has seen the value of our sisterhood. “Those bonds – they don’t just go away. You’re just automatically there for your sisters.”
FRAN WITH THE EMMY SHE EARNED FOR HER WORK AS TECHNICAL SUPERVISOR OF THE SUPER BOWL LVI PREGAME SHOW WITH NBC
Racing Forward
BY LAUREN FILIPPINI (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER
You will rarely find Karishma Cordero standing still. A recent alumna of the Alpha Phi (The University of Texas at Austin) chapter, Karishma is always chasing her passions, whether that means jumping out of a plane or exploring the world. You may have been able to watch her live out her passion for travel this year when she was a contestant on The Amazing Race! While she hit a few roadblocks on the show, Karishma is grateful for her experience and excited to see where her passions take her next.
KARISHMA CORDERO (RIGHT) WITH HER AMAZING RACE TEAMMATE KISHORI TURNER. PHOTO CREDIT: CBS
THE RACE OF A LIFETIME
On The Amazing Race, 13 teams of two travel around the world, led by clues and confronted with physical and mental challenges called Roadblocks and Detours in every city they visit. Each leg of the race sees one team eliminated at the end of the episode. The winning team takes home an incredible $1 million prize!
CBS has been airing The Amazing Race since 2001, and Karishma was part of its 36th season. Spoilers ahead – if you want to watch the season without knowing how it ends, jump to the next section!
For the rest of us, let’s rewind to 2022, when Karishma first learned about the chance to be on the show. And what more fitting way to take a lifechanging call about a race around the world than already being across the world from home! Karishma was participating in Semester at Sea, a study abroad program that takes students to multiple countries for in-person learning while taking courses aboard a ship. She got a call from her cousin, Kishori Turner, saying she had an amazing opportunity and asking if Karishma could take a phone call with an Amazing Race producer right now.
“That day she called me, we were supposed to be sailing, but a big storm had come,” Karishma recalls. “When we
were sailing, we didn’t have phone service, so this was meant to be, looking back at it.”
A lifelong fan of The Amazing Race, Kishori had originally applied to be on the show with a male friend, but the show’s casting team was looking for an all-female team and asked if Kishori had any sisters or female family members. Kishori immediately suggested her cousin, and Karishma jumped at the chance.
That phone call led to more interviews and testing. While waiting on the final word that she had been cast, Karishma began training for the show. In addition to brushing up on her geography and puzzle skills and learning to drive stick-shift, she wanted to make sure she was in shape for the show’s physical demands. Already having signed confidentiality agreements, she approached an Alpha Chi Omega sister who was passionate about fitness for some help, saying, “I have to train for something, but I can’t tell you what it is.”
The two trained together, went on long runs and did Orangetheory workouts.
Finally, a few weeks before filming, Karishma got the call that she had been cast and took a month-long leave from school in the first semester of her senior year. Karishma thought she knew what to expect on The Amazing Race.
THE CAST OF THE AMAZING RACE SEASON 36 RUNNING TOWARD THEIR BAGS TO START THEIR ADVENTURE; KARISHMA IS IN THE HOT PINK SHIRT IN THE CENTER.
“On your couch, it’s so easy to judge somebody because the show is edited down. I would watch the show –that’s what I would do to study – and I would be like, ‘They can’t figure out the simple puzzle; they’re so dumb!’ But then when you’re thrown into the show, there are so many other factors,” she says, pointing to things like the language barrier, the long days with constant running and her nerves that made it hard to eat. “It’s just a mental [challenge] to be able to turn your brain on after you’re exhausted, you’re hungry and you’re forced to do a puzzle in 100-degree heat.”
When asked if she would do anything differently, Karishma laughs and responds, “So many things!” She then elaborates, “If I were to do it again, I would slow down. The thing is, it’s a race, and I was like, ‘I have to go, I have to go!’ But if I were to go back, I would slow down and reread the clues … and maybe let my cousin do a lot more of the tasks than I did!”
Karishma says her favorite country she raced in was Colombia, including paragliding over the city of Medellín, and her favorite memory was a challenge when she and Kishori had to cook traditional Colombian meat dishes.
Ultimately, Karishma and Kishori were eliminated after Leg 5 in Chile. As viewers saw, Karishma stumbled during a few challenges, including having to complete a Roadblock twice after forgetting a key piece of the instructions. But through it all, Karishma and Kishori kept smiling, cheering each other on and having fun.
Returning home after filming, Karishma couldn’t wait to share her experience, assuming that the show would air just a few months after it was filmed like it did for previous seasons. “I was like, ‘Oh, this will be so fun, it’s going to come out while I’m still in college so I can celebrate with all my friends.’” However, the network decided to hold the season for a year and a half and re-edit it due to the writer’s strike! Still unable to tell anyone about the show during her senior year, Karishma says her Alpha Chi sisters had countless guesses about where she had been, everything from competing on Survivor to working in the FBI or CIA. Karishma recalls, “All I said was I had a work trip.”
Finally, the season premiered in March 2024, and Karishma celebrated with family, friends and Alpha Chi sisters at a viewing party. And when the season finale aired, Karishma was able to reunite with her castmates, who she says were the best part of her experience. “We’re just all so close, and I got family out of it.”
AN APPRECIATION FOR THE WORLD
While Karishma says she wasn’t a superfan of The Amazing Race like her cousin and teammate Kishori, her love of travel fit perfectly with the show.
“I work a corporate job, and sometimes you get caught up in a little thing and it’s so stressful, but then you take a step back when you travel,” Karishma explains. “It’s so much of a bigger picture, [and you see] what other
THE CAST OF THE AMAZING RACE SEASON 36; KARISHMA IS THE FRONT ROW, THIRD FROM THE RIGHT. PHOTO CREDIT: CBS
people struggle with on the daily and how I’m honestly just grateful to have work and a roof over my head and the things I didn’t realize were such commodities here. You get such a different perspective of the world … it changes you.”
When Karishma travels, there’s always some element of thrill. On an upcoming trip to Vietnam, she’s hoping to explore via motorcycle, and when she heads to Egypt this fall, she’ll see the sights while skydiving (more on that later!). Her next big travel goal is to make it to Antarctica, the final continent she hasn’t visited, before she turns 25.
Karishma loves exploring new places, meeting new people and embracing new cultures. This respect for and interest in perspectives outside her own made her the perfect person to take on the role of the Alpha Phi chapter’s first vice president diversity, equity and inclusion when she was in college. Starting in 2021, when Karishma held the role, each collegiate chapter began electing this officer to provide experiences, opportunities and space that encourage growth, education and belonging.
“That was something I was really passionate about,” Karishma says. “Being able to mold the position and create it and then see it be taken over was really rewarding for me.”
ALPHA CHI OMEGA SISTERS CAME OUT TO SUPPORT KARISHMA (FOURTH FROM LEFT) AT THE PREMIERE OF THE SEASON – DRESSED IN HOT PINK TO REPRESENT KARISHMA AND KISHORI’S TEAM COLORS!
KARISHMA COMPLETING A CHALLENGE ON THE AMAZING RACE TO JUMP THROUGH A LASSO AT A TRADITIONAL MEXICAN RODEO.
The positive experience she had in that role and the opportunities she had to educate her sisters propelled her later to apply and be selected for a similar leadership role during her Semester at Sea study abroad program.
Karishma says her Alpha Chi experience connected her to the wider campus, gave her lifelong friendships and taught her skills she still uses today. “I was that person within our house that people could kind of come to for anything, and I could be a friend to all,” she says. “I still take that in my day-to-day life.”
PHOTO CREDIT: CBS
KARISHMA (FRONT ROW, SECOND FROM LEFT) AND HER FELLOW
ALPHA PHI CHAPTER EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS
And she almost didn’t go through recruitment! Her first-year roommate asked if Karishma would consider signing up so they could move in early together. The first in her family to join a sorority, Karishma asked the women in her neighborhood for help understanding the process and then gave it a chance with expectations of just “making friends and talking to nice people.” She ended up finding her home – and now shares the Alpha Chi Omega bond with her little sister, Kaveri!
A FEARLESS SPIRIT
Now that the season has aired, Karishma has her sights set on new goals while appreciating the experience that The Amazing Race was.
“It’s so funny when I’m walking down the street and somebody’s staring at me. I’m like, ‘Have they watched the show? Or are they staring at me because I’m sweaty from my run?’” she says. “Obviously when you go on reality TV, you’re nervous about the way you could potentially be perceived, but I think The Amazing Race does a really good job at showcasing who people truly are.”
She adds that it’s been special to receive positive messages from people who watch the show, And there’s nothing like “rewatching this adventure I had with my best friend.”
The Amazing Race has also helped fuel her adventurous spirit! Karishma has a license for solo skydiving. It’s a hobby that started out of a desire to cross skydiving off her bucket list; she was hooked after that first jump and
has now thrown herself out of a plane more than 130 times! She even shared the hobby with her Alpha Chi sisters – who, she notes, were always more willing to try skydiving than her male friends. “I would take them in groups … and I would go jump out of the same plane with them. I would say it’s probably over a hundred [Alpha Chi sisters], I’ve taken so many of them.”
She explains why she loves skydiving: “It’s crazy to say, but it really does calm me down when I’m in the plane and I can see everything after the jump. It makes me trust myself. It gives me a lot of perspective and makes everything else in my life seem just so much less stressful. Like, I have to finish this deck or do this presentation for my buyer, and I’m like, ‘Wait, why am I stressing? I literally jump out of planes for fun.’ It’s given me a lot of peace.”
Her goal is to reach 200 jumps by the end of the year, so “I have a lot of jumping to do,” she says.
Outside of more skydiving, Karishma has big dreams, including starting a business around travel and wellness, exploring new countries, and maybe even becoming a pilot one day. But just a year out of college, she’s also taking time to enjoy where she is right now, settling into her job and making time for her hobbies. Just like on The Amazing Race, she’s learning to slow down and appreciate every moment – and the world around her.
Follow along on Karishma’s adventures at @KarishmaCordero. She also would love to hear from sisters!
Like Mother, Like Daughter
BY LAURA KNOBEL (IOTA ALPHA, ALUMNAE INITIATES), ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF LIFETIME ENGAGEMENT
There are threads that seem to weave through history, forming deep connections between generations. For Sarah-Elizabeth Gundlach Lambousy (Iota Alpha, Alumnae Initiates) and her late mother Sarah Lanelle Ward Gundlach (Beta Eta, Florida State University), those threads are family, profession and now Alpha Chi Omega.
“My mom’s family were some of the original settlers in Troy, Alabama. She was an avid genealogist and the family historian. She was the kind of person that could get any kind of fun, interesting and random or sometimes unknown family story out of family members,” Sarah-Elizabeth recalls. “As far back as I can remember, we attended family reunions in Troy [with] tons of family and tons of food.”
It would seem Sarah-Elizabeth was predestined to follow in her mother’s footsteps, as she attended the University of Mississippi to major in history and anthropology, where she fell in love with working with the special collections, and then got a master’s degree in archives and records management from The University of South Alabama, all while volunteering (and later working) back home with the Fort Lauderdale Historical Society. But she wasn’t always so keen on history!
“I do remember as a kid not wanting to visit another cemetery, library, archive, museum or antique store… it was boring and I’d much rather [have been] playing with my cousins. But I look back on it now realizing what an opportunity that was for me, considering what I do for a living. I now appreciate it so much more than I did as a child,” she says, referring to her current role
running the State Museum Archive in New Orleans, Louisiana.
All those years, Sarah was passing down more than just her passion for history to Sarah-Elizabeth. She was also sharing her love for Alpha Chi Omega.
“I [didn’t] understand when she would tell me to ‘seek the heights’ and do the best that I can whenever I was trying out for something or doing something I wasn’t comfortable [with] or unsure about. She always said that. I now understand it,” Sarah-Elizabeth shares.
Sarah-Elizabeth’s mom and dad, who met in Marion, Alabama while attending Judson College and Marion Military Institute, respectively, transferred to Florida State University together and were both part of fraternity and sorority life there.
“My dad was president of Chi Phi, [and] I remember my mom saying she really loved the atmosphere and the girls at Alpha Chi and felt like she was home when she visited the [Beta Eta] house. I know it was a big part of her life, and when my parents got married, she had three of her Alpha Chi Omega sisters as bridesmaids,” says Sarah-Elizabeth.
Sarah-Elizabeth participated in recruitment while attending the University of Mississippi but didn’t end up joining any sororities there – a decision that may have ultimately been for the best as there was no Alpha Chi Omega chapter on campus when she was there in 1997. “I remember my mom trying to find out
THE LATE SARAH LANELLE WARD GUNDLACH
SARAHELIZABETH RECEIVED HER MOTHER’S LYRE BADGE AT HER INITIATION
if Alpha Chi had plans to establish a chapter there,” she says. Though her mom passed away before the Lambda Pi chapter was established at the university in 2022, Sarah-Elizabeth says, “I knew my mother would be elated.”
Fortunately, there is more than one path to membership in Alpha Chi, as Sarah-Elizabeth learned years later. “I had been talking to some friends of mine, and I mentioned that I would’ve liked to have been a part of Greek life in college; it was something that I had missed out on. One of my friends mentioned that there were opportunities now to join as an alumna if I wanted to.”
Suddenly, reminders of Alpha Chi started appearing everywhere Sarah-Elizabeth looked: she stumbled on an article from The Lyre that hit home, and friends started reaching out who happened to be Alpha Chi members. She felt she had no choice but to look into Alpha Chi Omega’s National Alumna Initiate Program (NAIP).
“The more I learned and read about it, the more I wanted to do it…not just for myself, but I could hear my mom saying, ‘Do it, Sarah-Elizabeth.’ As silly as this may sound, I felt like the universe was telling me to do
this at this time. I felt it was a sign and that I was meant to be a part of this amazing organization.”
Although she was nervous to pursue alumna membership, Sarah-Elizabeth says the alumnae who supported her through the process made it easygoing and enjoyable. She is thankful for the new connections she has made with Alpha Chi Omegas both locally and nationally, but especially appreciates the new connection she has with her mom.
“It was a full-circle moment for me,” Sarah-Elizabeth says of her Initiation Ceremony at a New Orleans sister’s home in summer 2023, during which she was pinned with the same badge Sarah was pinned with when she initiated in 1974. “I wish she could’ve been here for my initiation. I know she would be so excited and proud of me…It feels good to share this with my mom. This is something I will always treasure, and I know that she is always there with me.”
IS THERE A WOMAN IN YOUR LIFE WITH WHOM YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE THE SPECIAL CONNECTION OF SISTERHOOD? SCAN THE QR CODE TO SPONSOR HER FOR MEMBERSHIP!
SARAH-ELIZABETH (SECOND FROM RIGHT) WITH MEMBERS OF GAMMA OMEGA GAMMA (NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA) ALUMNAE CHAPTER
Our Everlasting Sisterhood
75 YEARS OF DEDICATION
MARTHA MCADAMS VERTREES (ALPHA PHI, THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN) CELEBRATED 75 YEARS OF MEMBERSHIP WITH BETA LAMBDA BETA (AUSTIN, TEXAS) SISTERS AND FRIENDS.
PERDITA LOOMIS SHEIRICH (PI, UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY) CELEBRATED HER 75 TH MILESTONE AND 94 TH BIRTHDAY WITH ALUMNAE SISTERS, FAMILY AND FRIENDS.
JOYCE CAMPBELL BEALS (KAPPA, UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON) RECEIVED HER 75-YEAR PIN FROM XI XI (PORTLAND, OREGON) ALUMNAE AND HER DAUGHTER, BRYNN BEALS.
BY OCTOBER HENSON DAVIS (IOTA CHI, MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY), ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF VOLUNTEER AND ALUMNAE ENGAGEMENT
There are many celebrations to be had as a member of Alpha Chi Omega, from Bid Day to initiation to graduation. You’ll gather with sisters to celebrate advanced education programs, buying houses, marriages, promotions and growing families. And each year you’ll celebrate another anniversary as an initiated member of Alpha Chi Omega.
As the years pass, our dedication to our sisterhood expands in unique and beautiful ways. Members around the country grow with Alpha Chi Omega, and none know that experience better than our sisters celebrating their 75-year membership milestone. As they receive their 75-year pins (a gift from the National Fraternity), many are honored by family and loved ones through a milestone ceremony.
When our 75-year members were initiated in 1949, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) had just been established, and radio listeners were entertained by Fibber McGee and Molly. Since then, these sisters have experienced countless moments in world history and their personal lives – so why is it important for them to celebrate the sorority commitment they made 75 years ago? Because Alpha Chi Omega is an everlasting part of their life. All celebrations look different – from small gatherings with family to weekend trips to their alma mater to large alumnae chapter banquets – but the message remains the same.
Laurabelle Eby Roderick (Alpha Beta, Purdue University) recently celebrated her 75-year milestone by visiting Purdue’s campus with her daughter, Tura Cottingham
LAURABELLE ON CAMPUS 75 YEARS AFTER HER INITIATION
and husband John. They made a weekend of being on campus by taking a campus tour (of course stopping by the old and new Alpha Chi houses), toasting the weekend at Harry’s Chocolate Shop and exploring West Lafayette, Indiana. They gathered with close friends and family during their trip to host a milestone ceremony where Laurabelle received her pin.
When asked why Alpha Chi Omega means so much to her, Laurabelle shared, “On a big campus, it was good to be in a home when coming back from classes and dining together in the evening with friends. It felt safe, and I enjoyed the friendships. In fact, it was a sorority sister who set me up on a blind date with a local boy from Lafayette. We were married and enjoyed 68 wonderful years together.”
Laurabelle’s Alpha Chi Omega memories are incredibly important and unique to her – while also mirroring the experience of thousands of sisters. So many of our members share similar stories of the impact our sisterhood had on their life. They share memories, lessons learned and ways Alpha Chi Omega has shown up in their lives. They are also quick to ask, “Can you believe I am 94 years old?!”
When you think about your own initiation and how many things have changed, you should also consider how many things stay the same. Alpha Chi Omega’s 2024 initiates may live in a much different world than our 1949 initiates, but they are all part of a sisterhood that has sustained us since 1885. The empowering connections, growth opportunities, lifelong friendships and love for Alpha Chi Omega remain everlasting.
Alpha Chi Omega annually recognizes members reaching 10, 25, 50, 60 and 75 years of membership. If you’re celebrating a milestone this year, we invite you to visit alphachiomega.org/ milestone-celebrants.
COLLEGIAN LAURABELLE AT THE ALPHA BETA HOUSE BEFORE A DANCE WITH HER FUTURE HUSBAND, JACK
JEAN JONNARD (LAMBDA, SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY) TOASTED TO 75 YEARS ALONGSIDE MEMBERS OF EPSILON ETA EPSILON (NORTHERN VIRGINIA).
ELOUISE SPEARS OHLSON (GAMMA DELTA, UNIVERSITY OF DENVER) RECEIVED HER 75-YEAR PIN AT NU NU’S (DENVER, COLORADO) ANNUAL SPRING LUNCH.
LUNCHEON HOSTED BY LOCAL ALUMNAE.
ANN BERNING HOCHSCHEID (ALPHA DELTA, UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI) RECEIVED HER PIN DURING A
BARBARA JANE BRAYMER LUBACH (BETA ETA, FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY) WAS HONORED BY HER DAUGHTERS AND ALUMNAE SISTERS.
THEN AND NOW
Committed to Philanthropy
Have you ever thought about what Alpha Chi Omega was doing 10, 20, 50 years ago? How have things changed for our members and organization? How have they stayed the same? Taken from previous Lyre magazines, the “Then and Now” series offers a glimpse into what life was like for Alpha Chi Omegas throughout history. Beginning with our support of the Star Studio at the MacDowell artists’ residency program in New Hampshire in 1911, Alpha Chi Omega has been deeply committed to philanthropic endeavors. While the focus of our volunteer and fundraising efforts has evolved over time as needs have changed, the core purpose and drive of our members and our organization have remained the same.
BY SALLY CUTLER (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), HISTORIAN AND ARCHIVIST
Let’s take a look back at what philanthropy was like in Alpha Chi Omega nearly 50 years ago. After supporting a number of causes through the years, some of which had been driven by support of wartime efforts – including providing financial assistance to French orphans during World War I and staffing and providing supplies for daycare centers during World War II – the Fraternity’s philanthropic direction began to shift.
In the 1970s, for example, Alpha Chi Omega members were actively involved in supporting research to find a cure for cystic fibrosis, a genetic disorder affecting the lungs, pancreas and other organs. This support continued from 1974 until 1990. In 1982, Alpha Chi Omega adopted frisbee golf tournaments as a national fundraiser, and collegiate chapters nationwide could be found holding Frisbee Fling tournaments, as featured in these pages from the spring 1982 issue of The Lyre.
And, of course, in 1979, the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation was created. In the years following the Foundation’s inception, collegiate and alumnae chapters have supported the Real. Strong. Women. Experience and Alpha Chi Omega’s philanthropic priorities through their gifts to the Foundation. Notably, Alpha Chi Omega chapters have raised more than $11 million in the past 20 years through the Community Impact Program.
• Glamorous fashion shows and galas – think Alpha Chi Couture, a longstanding fashion show and silent auction held by the Iota Sigma (Southern Methodist University) collegiate chapter and the Beta Kappa Beta (Dallas, Texas) alumnae chapter, as well as the Beta Eta chapter’s Night Under the Stars Gala at Florida State University
• Donation drives – collecting diapers, blankets and other items most needed by survivors and local shelters
• Fundraising events with a definite focus on fun – like a Volley Against Violence campus event or a talent show. The Beta Sigma chapter at the University of Georgia, as another example, holds a Love Should Be Sweet event to raise funds for its local domestic violence shelter while passing out doughnuts to the campus.
Alpha Chi Omega collegiate and alumnae chapters continue to make a lasting and meaningful impact through their dedication to philanthropy. We celebrate the important place philanthropy has held for so many years in Alpha Chi and can only imagine the impact our sisters will make in the future!
ZETA IOTA ZETA (CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA) MEMBERS SPREAD AWARENESS IN THEIR COMMUNITY AT A WALK BENEFITTING A LOCAL SHELTER
DELTA RHO (UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS) MEMBERS AT THEIR VOLLEY AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE EVENT
2024-25 National Boards
FRATERNITY
NATIONAL COUNCIL
JENNIFER DAURORA
(Delta, Allegheny College)
NATIONAL PRESIDENT
LESLIE ABRAMSKY BLOCK
(Theta Tau, Rutgers University)
NATIONAL VICE PRESIDENT
KRISTIN MILLER EDWARDS
(Beta Epsilon, Michigan State University)
NATIONAL VICE PRESIDENT
DR. JENNIFER WILHOIT LANE
(Zeta Pi, Arizona State University)
NATIONAL VICE PRESIDENT
DR. CASSIE GERHARDT
(Alpha Pi, University of North Dakota)
NATIONAL VICE PRESIDENT
KELLI RODRIGUEZ
(Theta Pi, University of California, Davis)
NATIONAL VICE PRESIDENT
FOUNDATION
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
MAREE MAGLIOCCHETTI LATTANZI
(Alpha Tau, University of New Hampshire) CHAIR
HEATHER RENEE CARRIO
(Psi, The University of Oklahoma)
TRUSTEE
YVETTE MARTINEZ
(Zeta Nu, Texas A&M University)
TRUSTEE
TONYA LEE TATUM (Beta Lambda, University of Arizona)
TRUSTEE/SECRETARY
KRISTIN SNYDER HIMSEL
(Alpha, DePauw University) TRUSTEE
JULIE M. STUFFT (Zeta Upsilon, Case Western Reserve University)
TRUSTEE
ANNE TEAFORDCANTOR
(Alpha Psi, UCLA)
TRUSTEE/TREASURER
MARY CARTER MARTIN (Alpha Nu, University of Missouri)
TRUSTEE
ALSO SERVING ON THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES FROM THE NATIONAL COUNCIL ARE JENNIFER DAURORA AND KRISTIN MILLER EDWARDS.
ALPHA CHI OMEGA IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THE MEMBERS OF THE ENTERPRISE BOARDS
FOR 2024-25. THANK YOU,
SISTERS, FOR YOUR SERVICE.
NATIONAL HOUSING CORPORATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
JANIS ROSE HURTER
(Zeta Omicron, Vanderbilt University) PRESIDENT
ANNA CLOVIS RITCHIE
(Phi, University of Kansas) DIRECTOR
NANCY SPANICH WAISS
(Omega, Washington State University) DIRECTOR/ SECRETARY/ TREASURER
BROOKE OLIVER SMITH
(Alpha Chi, Butler University) DIRECTOR
MELANIE GOERKE
(Iota Alpha, Alumnae Initiates) DIRECTOR
ALISANDE LISETTE WILLIAMS
(Epsilon, University of Southern California) DIRECTOR
ALSO SERVING ON THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS FROM THE NATIONAL COUNCIL ARE DR. CASSIE GERHARDT AND KELLI RODRIGUEZ.
ALPHA CHI OMEGA VISION STATEMENT
Alpha Chi Omega shapes the future through the powerful, transformative and everlasting connections of real, strong women.
FRATERNITY MISSION STATEMENT
Through the Real. Strong. Women. Experience, Alpha Chi Omega cultivates impactful communities where women are inspired to connect, lead, grow and serve.
FOUNDATION MISSION STATEMENT
The Alpha Chi Omega Foundation strives to realize and sustain the educational and philanthropic values of Alpha Chi omega through successful fundraising and stewardship. Generous gifts from our members and friends enhance the Real. Strong. Women. Experience and empower our members to impact their communities and world positively.
NATIONAL HOUSING CORPORATION MISSION STATEMENT
The National Housing Corporation enhances the Real. Strong. Women. Experience by providing safe and competitive facilities where members connect, lead, grow and serve.
PEARL STONE PARTNERS MISSION STATEMENT
Pearl Stone Partners delivers comprehensive human resources services and supports employees and those who direct them to enhance the Real. Strong. Women. Experience.
Note: Pearl Stone Partners is the fourth corporate entity of the Alpha Chi Omega Enterprise; however, instead of a governance structure board, it is led by an operational advisory committee and overseen by its member-manager, the Fraternity.
chapter consultant?
Alpha Chi Omega is seeking passionate and driven members to join our team as chapter consultants for the 2025-26 term. This is a unique chance to make a significant impact on the organization and its members while gaining invaluable professional experience.
AS A CHAPTER CONSULTANT, YOU WILL:
Travel to various college campuses
Foster leadership and growth within collegiate chapters
Build relationships with collegians, alumnae and university professionals
Facilitate workshops and training sessions
Assist in recruitment and retention of members
Develop action plans and strategies for chapter success
THIS ROLE IS PERFECT FOR THOSE WHO ARE LOOKING TO SHARPEN THEIR SKILLS IN:
Public speaking and presentation
Project and budget management
Conflict resolution
Relationship management
Marketing and event planning
Embark on a journe personal and profes all while contributin of Alpha Chi Omeg join a team of real, dedicated to making
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT THE CHAPTER CONSULTANT ROLE? SCAN THE QR CODE TO VISIT OUR WEBSITE.
1 ALPHA GAMMA (UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO)
The executive board of Alpha Gamma chapter has been hard at work in 2024.
2 EPSILON OMEGA (CAL POLY, SAN LUIS OBISPO)
This pile of executive board members couldn’t stop smiling during their photoshoot.
3 DELTA EPSILON (SOUTHEAST MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY)
As the academic year wrapped up, sisters took some photos around campus.
4 BETA OMICRON (FLORIDA SOUTHERN COLLEGE)
Beta Omicron celebrated how sisterhood grows in the chapter during spring Bid Day!
5 EPSILON (UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA)
Members celebrated the Fourth of July with a pool party, fireworks and even AXΩ pool floaties!
6 ALPHA (DEPAUW UNIVERSITY)
There’s nothing like reuniting with sisters over the summer, like these two Alpha chapter members at a baseball game.
7 BETA (ALBION COLLEGE)
Sisters met up for a beautiful summer weekend in Petoskey, Michigan.
8 THETA IOTA (BAYLOR UNIVERSITY)
Exploring London is fun – doing it with sisters is even better!
1 GAMMA ETA GAMMA (EUGENE, OR)
The alumnae chapter welcomed Latara Wilson (center) into our sisterhood as an alumna initiate.
2 MU MU (KANSAS CITY, MO)
Alumnae chapter sisters enjoyed the Greater Kansas Alumnae Panhellenic Brunch; celebrated their AX Women of the Year, Jamie Eaton (Omicron, Baker University) and Jenny Duld (Omicron), and their scholarship winner, Kolbie Christensen (Omicron); and raised funds for next year’s scholarships.
3 ETA THETA ETA (NASHVILLE, TN)
The alumnae chapter kicked off its summer series with a sisterhood event at Arrington Vineyard.
4 KAPPA OMICRON KAPPA (SAN DIEGO COAST, CA)
The chapter hosted a 60-year milestone ceremony for Pauline Harper Nutt (Gamma Nu, San Diego State University), who shared the positive impact Alpha Chi Omega has had on her life since her initiation.
5 MU PI MU (SAN FERNANDO VALLEY, CA)
After presenting a 50-year pin to Julie Shapiro (Epsilon, University of Southern California), alumnae chapter members celebrated at a neighborhood restaurant.
6 SIGMA SIGMA (ST. LOUIS, MO)
With husbands and friends joining them, Sigma Sigma sisters enjoyed a summer day at Defiance Ridge Winery, taking in the wine valleys and hilltops.
7 KAPPA SIGMA KAPPA (LITTLE ROCK, AR)
These sisters composed themselves for a picture after a fiery evening. Vice President Theresa Blair (Delta Rho, University of Arkansas) shares, “With the smoke alarm blaring and candle flames roaring 5 inches, we all had a lesson with a fire blanket – and it works!”
8 BETA NU BETA (TUCSON, AZ)
Members of the alumnae chapter paused for a photo after hosting the Hall of Commitment ceremony for Beta Lambda (University of Arizona) seniors.
9 DELTA RHO (UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS) ALUMNAE
Some of our newest alumnae, the 2024 Delta Rho graduates celebrated the start of alumnae life with the Hall of Commitment Ceremony.
10 BETA PHI (BOWLING GREEN STATE UNIVERSITY) ALUMNAE
These 2005 graduates reunited on campus and went back to their favorite spots, including the Beta Phi chapter facility! Pictured front row: Karen Wood Tolone, Keri Mohrbach Bridges and Vanessa Kelley Ohlinger; pictured back row: Amy Colvin Mustafa, Sara Dotson Lampela, Lindsay Wiener Newsome
11 DELTA KAPPA (SAM HOUSTON STATE UNIVERSITY) ALUMNAE
Sisters returned to campus for a 70s reunion in January, complete with matching denim shirts!
12
LAMBDA (SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY) ALUMNAE
Writes Penny Zamkov, “Through every twist and turn of life’s journey, we’ve stood by each other, weaving a tapestry of enduring memories and unwavering support ... The bonds we’ve forged feel as timeless as they are unbreakable.” Pictured front row: Shannon Sanders von Hassel, Rhonda Clement Bergeron, Marijo Adimey, Penny Passaro Zamkov, Suzanne Cabral Hewett; pictured back row: Krista Muller Celli, Kristin Reid Pena, Kim Hill Tromba, Pam Cohen Bass, Susan Andreoli Platt
13 KAPPA (UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN –MADISON) ALUMNAE
In April, seven Kappa sisters gathered for a weekend reunion in Tucson, Arizona; some of the women hadn’t seen each other in 50 years! Pictured: Diane (Joslin) Patience, Pat (Konopka) Jones, Ann (Wilcox) Garber, Janice (Britt) Beck, Jane (Nagle) Villapiano, Christine Hughes, Laura (Lewis) Rea
14 MU (SIMPSON COLLEGE) ALUMNAE
During a Simpson College alumni trip, Kathy Goodwin Brackney, Pam Leahigh Zimmerman and Denise Griffey posed with matching lyre scarfs on the Avalon River Cruise Ship on the Rhone River in France.
15 IOTA OMICRON (UNIVERSITY OF LYNCHBURG) ALUMNA
Jessica Dauer Lowrance (pictured far right) officiated the Division III Women’s Lacrosse National Championship in May in Roanoke, Virginia. She shared, “It was an honor to be selected for championship weekend, then named to the championship game.”
16 ALPHA UPSILON (THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA) ALUMNA
Susan Duckworth Bedsole, along with her husband Travis M. Bedsole Jr., received the 2024 V. Gordon Moulton Distinguished Service Award from the University of South Alabama. Due to their volunteerism, scholarship endowments and partnerships, the Bedsoles were recognized for their commitment to helping young people achieve their potential through access to education.
Remembering Barbara Deady Horton
Alpha Chi Omega is saddened to share news of the passing of Barbara Deady Horton (Gamma, Northwestern University), a former National Council officer and Foundation Board of Trustees member, on July 15, 2024.
A longtime volunteer for the Fraternity and the Foundation, Barbara served in many volunteer positions for Alpha Chi Omega, including:
Alpha Chi Omega Fraternity
National Treasurer (1980-85)
National Secretary (1978-80)
Assistant Alumnae Vice President
National Nominating Committee Chairman
National Constitution Committee Chairman
National Nominating Committee and Election Process
Task Force Chair
District Alumnae Chairman
Parliamentarian
Alpha Chi Omega Foundation
Trustee and Secretary (1979-80)
Membership Assistance Committee
Educational Assistance Committee Chair
Barbara was also very involved in a number of local, statewide and regional activities for organizations including P.E.O., United Way, Girl Scouts of America and the Phoenix Panhellenic.
She recently shared that her favorite Alpha Chi Omega memories were “being involved in the Centennial program for Alpha Chi Omega at DePauw; working with [Past National President] Karen Miley as she set into action strategic planning and the start of the Foundation; working with [Past National President] D’Alice Cochran as we progressed into the future of Alpha Chi Omega; and working with [past Executive
Director] Nancy Leonard, who believed in the board setting policy and the staff executing the policies set by the board.” She said a particular highlight was working with all of the members of the board during her seven years of National Council service.
Barbara’s commitment to Alpha Chi Omega and to securing its long-term viability was evident in all she did, and the Fraternity is deeply grateful for her service and devotion. She will be greatly missed.
A funeral service will be held in Sun City West, Arizona, on October 4. Barbara’s daughter requested that condolences be sent to Alpha Chi Omega headquarters; those can be emailed to info@alphachiomega.org or mailed to 5635 Castle Creek Parkway N. Dr., Indianapolis, IN 46250.
In Barbara’s last wishes documented with the Fraternity, she asked that donations in her memory be made to the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation. Those interested in doing so can visit https://give.alphachiomega.org/Horton.
BARBARA DEADY HORTON
BARBARA (SECOND FROM LEFT) WITH MEMBERS OF THE 1983-85 NATIONAL COUNCIL
In Memoriam
Reported to headquarters between May 1 and July 31, 2024
Name, Initiation Year, Month and Year of Death
Alpha (DePauw University)
Martha Jarvis, 1957, May 2024
Beta (Albion College)
Gayle Virginia Broadbooks, 1952, March 2024
Diana Wilson Clapp, 1950, May 2024
Gamma (Northwestern University)
Linda Grube Eisenhauer, 1956, June 2024
Barbara Deady Horton, 1950, July 2024
Kaye Johnson McCardle, 1955, June 2024
Eta (Bucknell University)
Marion Rodan Steele, 1945, July 2024
Theta (University of Michigan)
Anne Ackenhusen, 1947, July 2024
Mary Burrell Koenig, 1961, May 2024
Charlotte Iselman Tanger, 1941, December 2007
Iota (University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign)
Corinne Brockmeier Krebs, 1951, October 2023
Barbara Grumley Sullivan, 1947, October 2015
Kappa (University of Wisconsin - Madison)
Mary Huberty McNulty, 1944, September 2017
Lambda (Syracuse University)
Jill Covitz, 1990, January 2022
Mu (Simpson College)
Betty Nyswonger Love, 1942, August 2010
Nu (University of Colorado Boulder)
Sally Kimmel Rhodes, 1955, January 2019
Bonnie Stebbins Streeter, 1960, May 2024
Margaret Gills Wellings, 1948, June 2024
Xi (University of Nebraska – Lincoln)
Barbara Tooley Justice, 1951, May 2024
Omicron (Baker University)
Phyllis Landers Leibrandt, 1953, June 2024
Barbara Craig Lewis, 1958, February 2024
Marie Ann Haigh Wicke, 1956, May 2024
Pi (University of California, Berkeley)
Joanne Vilardi Bjork, 1954, July 2023
Elizabeth Kendall Howard, 1935, July 2018
Kay Byard Smith, 1949, January 2010
Sigma (University of Iowa)
Janice Lind Brake, 1948, July 2024
Tamara Sitz Cox, 1980, June 2024
Beverly Hiller Hartig, 1987, July 2023
Tau (Brenau University)
Nancy Wofford Moore, 1957, July 2024
Chi (Oregon State University)
Betty L. Mosar, 1945, December 2014
Psi (The University of Oklahoma)
Saraellen Lessert Woodard, 1955, July 2024
Omega (Washington State University)
Virginia Geehan Bigelow, 1934, April 2014
Donna Schwartz O’Halloran, 1948, June 2024
Alpha Beta (Purdue University)
Barbara Meredith Gerke, 1965, May 2024
Alpha Zeta (Washington University in St. Louis)
Charlotte Rist Adelsperger, 1957, July 2024
Delores Moore Bouffard, 1950, August 2021
Marjorie Nowakowsky Gottfried, 1947, May 2024
Pamela Ann Haisty, 1962, May 2023
Linda Candace Hess, 1971, March 2021
Rowena Nagel Janssens, 1951, March 2023
Barbara Homan Kraft, 1954, October 2021
Patricia Scannell Wehner, 1964, June 2022
Javais Evett Wolters, 1950, April 2024
Alpha Eta (University of Mount Union)
Jayne Nims Shirk, 1936, September 2014
Alpha Kappa (University of Oregon)
Jeanette Morse Bauer, 1951, May 2024
Patricia McReal, 1951, October 2023
Alpha Mu (Indiana University)
Jean Decker Allread, 1953, May 2024
Nancy Elliott Buckmaster, 1961, January 2024
Alpha Nu (University of Missouri)
Barbara Beck Beeching, 1948, July 2023
Ardelle Fenton Crisler, 1951, June 2024
Barbara Karen Quentin James, 1958, September 2022
Shirley Ann Page, 1946, October 2022
Alpha Rho (University of Idaho)
Janet Scudder Bast, 1964, July 2023
Alpha Sigma (Ohio Wesleyan University)
Barbara Slater Frank, 1961, December 2023
Alpha Upsilon (The University of Alabama)
Sylvia LeCount Harder, 1956, May 2024
Mary Lou Williams, 1970, May 2024
Alpha Chi (Butler University)
Karen Allen Keene, 1973, February 2023
Deborah Ward, 1974, May 2022
Alpha Psi (UCLA)
Sharla Perrine Boehm, 1948, May 2024
Susan Volkmann Cable, 1956, March 2023
Elizabeth Wilcock Weigle, 1936, June 2007
Beta Gamma (Louisiana State University)
Janis Summers Chopin, 1965, June 2024
Beta Epsilon (Michigan State University)
Carol Nelson Cooper, 1952, May 2024
Beta Nu (University of Utah)
Janice Russell Brickey, 1958, April 2024
Beta Xi (Utah State University)
Afton Carter Alder, 1941, April 2024
Beta Sigma (University of Georgia)
Donna Anderson, 2017, June 2024
Beta Tau (Miami University)
Barbara Romig Roark, 1941, July 2015
Beta Chi (Willamette University)
Charleen Asvik Oerding, 1951, March 2024
Gamma Epsilon (Oklahoma State University)
Margaret Schneider Slagle, 1956, October 2021
Debby Dasbach Stewart, 1974, October 2014
Gamma Eta (San Jose State University)
Catherine English Gunther, 1948, September 2014
Gamma Iota (University of Florida)
Eleanor Stucky Robinson, 1963, August 2023
Gamma Lambda (Kent State University)
Carol Pokorny Dambaugh, 1955, June 2024
Nancy George Grau, 1964, March 2023
Jane Fancher Lawton, 1962, July 2024
Gamma Mu (Ball State University)
Lida Hufford Fidger, 1965, November 2022
Bonnie Beach Gersh, 1950, April 2018
Gamma Nu (San Diego State University)
Ronda Magnuson Block, 1980, August 2018
Gamma Omicron (Marshall University)
Kathryn McGinnis Driscoll, 1971, July 2024
Barbara Ferrell Walton, 1953, July 2024
Gamma Tau (Oklahoma City University)
Mary Hamilton Mohr, 1955, February 2013
Gamma Upsilon (University of Houston)
Nancy Goodrich Barziza, 1959, July 2024
Velura Anne Merriam Johnson, 1966, May 2023
Delta Kappa (Sam Houston State University)
Karen Clarke Anglin, 1989, July 2024
Delta Mu (University of Massachusetts)
Barbara Mary Davis, 1965, July 2024
Delta Nu (Iowa State University)
Patricia Frischmeyer Hansen, 1977, March 2024
Delta Pi (University of Tennessee, Knoxville)
Ann T. Thurman, 1978, May 2024
Delta Sigma (University of the Pacific)
Valerie Pasquini Willsea, 1974, September 2023
Delta Upsilon (Colorado State University)
Diane Miller Cramer, 1971, July 2024
Epsilon Iota (University of Northern Iowa)
Jeanine Thorsheim Lynch, 1972, June 2024
Epsilon Xi (University of Nevada, Reno)
Michelle Renee Glaeske, 1991, January 2024
Epsilon Chi (University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill)
Sally Warneck Kinder, 1980, January 2016
Epsilon Psi (University of California, Irvine)
Leslie Anne Malmgren, 1978, April 2024
Zeta Chi (Muhlenberg College)
Brooke Feldman Jones, 1985, May 2024
Theta Iota (Baylor University)
Anne-Marie Lowe Yankowsky, 2008, October 2023
Kappa Xi (University of West Florida)
We asked. Sisters
ON FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM, WE ASKED ALPHA CHI OMEGAS TO SHARE THEIR FAVORITE BACK-TO-SCHOOL OR FALL CAMPUS TRADITIONS –HERE’S WHAT THEY TOLD US!
ALEX DANZ (THETA SIGMA, UNIVERSITY OF NORTH FLORIDA
“At the end of work week, our local alumnae host a pool party for us!”
-ELLA WILBURN (GAMMA OMICRON, MARSHALL UNIVERSITY)
“Eagle Walk (high fives to players) at football games in the fall”
-EMMIE KOSZALKA (KAPPA SIGMA, UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI)
“Move-in day with my sisters!”
-JERSEY CHERNOW (GAMMA EPSILON, OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY)
“ Taking back-to-school pictures at the bell tower with our fdos (first day of school) shirts”
-ISABELA RUIZ HERNANDEZ (DELTA KAPPA, SAM HOUSTON STATE UNIVERSITY)
“Jersey Thursday!”
BETA XI (UTAH STATE UNIVERSITY)
-BROOKLYN FLEMING (THETA IOTA, BAYLOR UNIVERSITY)
“Meet the Greeks at UT Tyler. The first week back is so fun!”
-CAMERON CATE (KAPPA MU, THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT TYLER)
“Move-in with everyone having different music spilling out into the hallway”
- ANNIE DEMCHAK (ALPHA, DEPAUW UNIVERSITY)
“First day photos at the house”
-BRAYDEN BEARDSLEY (DELTA RHO, UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS)
Savannah DeLoach, 2013, April 2024 JOIN THE CONVERSATION BY
BETA PHI (BOWLING GREEN STATE UNIVERSITY)
Join the Life Loyal Roll!
WE HOPE YOU’RE ENJOYING THE DIGITAL VERSION OF THE LYRE !
We also know there’s something special about receiving a magazine in print and flipping through the pages to read the stories of our sisterhood.
Alumnae members who make cumulative gifts of $299 or more to the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation reach the Life Loyal Roll and receive the printed version of The Lyre four times a year as part of the donor communications plan.
The Impact of Your Gifts
When you join the Life Loyal Roll, you’ll support the Foundation’s mission to enhance the lifetime experiences of our members – and dream big about the future of Fraternity programming.
Through your gifts at the Life Loyal Roll level, you’ll make a lasting impact on the future of Alpha Chi Omega and in the lives of our sisters. Transformational programs and experiences that make up the Real. Strong. Women. Experience help our members gain life skills like confidence and leadership ability, self-awareness and interpersonal relationship skills, and comfort with vulnerability and bridging difficult topics.
Only with support from donors will Alpha Chi Omega continue to:
• Promote mental well-being for our sisters through programs that facilitate authentic conversations about mental health
• Empower our members to build healthy relationships through programming like Let’s Talk Love while increasing awareness of domestic violence
• Create communities of support where sisters encourage sisters to discover their most genuine selves through the Real. Strong. Women. Experience
THANK YOU FOR CONSIDERING A GIFT TO THE FOUNDATION AT THE LIFE LOYAL ROLL LEVEL!
