The Spring 2025 Lyre

Introducing the Foundation’s

Growing Our Circle Initiative

Announcing the Collegiate Chapter Award Winners

Sylvia

Reaching for Goals, National President Style, 1975

BY SALLY CUTLER (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY)

Adele Fieve Drew (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota) served as National President from 1970-76, a time of rapid change and busy but rewarding days for Alpha Chi Omega volunteers. Adele attempted to demystify the National President position in a column in the spring 1975 issue of The Lyre entitled “The National President? What Does She Do All Day? A Day in the Life of …”

And what a day it was! From a 5:30 a.m. delivery to an 11:15 p.m. phone call, Adele’s day was full of phone conversations, responding to mail, listening, planning, advising and more. During this particular day:

Adele carved out time to support volunteer efforts.

7:30 A.M. Call from an officer who had forgotten all about the different time zones. She was most enthusiastic about her idea.

She took a moment to appreciate the good things happening in Alpha Chi Omega.

11:20 A.M. Conference with the lady responsible for the installation of our newest chapter: always a special thrill.

There was time to bond with the postal carrier (no email yet, so loads of mail, it seems)!

2:00 P.M. My friendly mailman comes to the door as there is far too much for the mailbox to hold. He makes little jokes about persons who do not use enough postage.

THE DRESS WORN BY ADELE IN THE PHOTO ABOVE, ON DISPLAY AT THE 2024 NATIONAL CONVENTION

Adele faced challenging circumstances with resolve.

2:00-4:00 P.M. The financial reports received are responsible for over an hour at the adding machine in an effort to see how it is possible to continue our services in these days of rising costs without raising dues and fees. It does not look possible.

And, at the end of the day, she expressed gratitude.

11:45 P.M. Unable to sleep, reflect that this must, this MUST be the most rewarding possible kind of volunteer work!

Clearly Adele relished her role as National President and the goals she – and Alpha Chi Omega – were

energetically reaching for each day with a combination of grace, humor, persistence and resilience.

THE 1974-76 NATIONAL COUNCIL; ADELE DREW IS THIRD FROM LEFT

Reach for Your Goals

As editor of The Lyre, I have the privilege of talking to dozens of women each year about their passions, dreams and accomplishments. As we discuss their goals – the ones they are pursuing and the ones they’ve achieved – I often find myself asking if they are doing what they thought they would be. And almost always, the answer is a resounding “No way!”

Alpha Chi Omegas are lifelong learners, committed to living and growing as their most authentic selves. So when an experience, person or piece of information shows them a new path, they allow their goals to evolve. Refocusing and refining, they build upon the lessons they’ve learned so far, seek support along the way and continue on their redrawn path to seek new heights.

Each of us is reaching for a goal, whether that’s personal, professional, communal or otherwise. And while our goals may be unique, we all share one thing in common: a sisterhood that believes in us and encourages us to pursue our passions and better ourselves along the way.

Loyally,

Lauren Filippini

Alpha Chi (Butler University) Marketing and Communications Manager Editor, The Lyre

P.S. I can’t get away with not sharing my current goal: more connection time, less phone time. Let’s get to know each other!

Contributors

KELLY BECK

ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA SORORITY

Kelly is the 2023-25 chair of the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) and previously served as national president of Alpha Sigma Alpha. In the spirit of promoting the sorority experience, we share her recent announcement of NPC’s updated vision, mission and values on page 59.

SALLY CUTLER

ALPHA CHI (BUTLER UNIVERSITY)

Sally worked as the Alpha Chi Omega headquarters historian and archivist from 2022-25. She continues to share her love of Alpha Chi history in this issue with articles on the inside of the front cover and on page 56.

LYRE SPOTTING

Iota Upsilon Iota (Williamsburg, Virginia) members celebrated the chapter’s 26th anniversary in January and brought along The Lyre!

SEEKING YOUR STORIES

Alpha Chi Omega wants to know what kind of stories you are interested in reading about in The Lyre. Let us know what you want to see – or share your personal story or the name of a sister seeking the heights – by emailing editor@alphachiomega.org.

ELLE ROTTER

ALPHA CHI (BUTLER UNIVERSITY)

Elle is a sophomore studying journalism and strategic communication with the hopes of becoming a writer for a newspaper in Indianapolis or St. Louis. She enjoys reading, crocheting and spending time with her sorority sisters, friends and family. Read her article about chapters’ philanthropic and service initiatives, found on page 28.

TAYLOR SAWYER

GAMMA IOTA (UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA)

Taylor is a second-year Ph.D. student in plant breeding, focusing on prediction and simulation of strawberry growth and development. She is passionate about increasing access to healthy fruits and building recognition of the role fresh produce plays in long-term health. She shares about her academic pursuits and the support of a sister on page 6.

DR. ELLEN THOMPSON

GAMMA OMICRON (MARSHALL UNIVERSITY)

A past Alpha Chi Omega Real. Strong. Women. of Distinction Award recipient, Ellen is the director of the Cardiology Training Program at Marshall’s School of Medicine and maintains a practice. She focuses on cardiac imaging and education, and in this issue, she shares her top heart health tips for women on page 32.

STAFF CONTRIBUTORS

JESSICA VELTE

GAMMA IOTA (UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA)

Jessica is a first-year Ph.D. student in plant pathology, focusing on phytobacteriology, the effects of the microbiome on plant health and disease management using biological controls. She seeks to make an impact in the health and sustainability of agriculture. She writes about how her Gamma Iota sister has impacted her journey on page 6.

TRICIA WIESE

DELTA NU (IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY)

As a recruiter-turned-career coach, Tricia helps people feeling stuck in their job searches through resume reviews, interview prep, negotiations and more. She shares her top tips to enhance your resume on page 37.

JODI MCDONALD WILSON GAMMA DELTA (UNIVERSITY OF DENVER)

After years hiking to raise money for MS research and treatments, Jodi penned a love letter to the sorority sisters who accompanied her up the mountains and on her journey. You can read it on page 34.

Members of the Alpha Eta (University of Mount Union) chapter’s centennial planning committee also contributed a recap of their event on page 9.

MORGAN ELAM , FOUNDATION COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

LAURA KNOBEL , ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF LIFETIME ENGAGEMENT

AUTUMN MCBRIDE , EDUCATION AND ENGAGEMENT MANAGER

KENDALL SUESS , ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF HOUSING

EMMA WILLE , MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

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.

If you know a young woman who plans to participate in recruitment on her campus, our online recommendation form is the best way to let the chapter know! Our members are the best resource for real, strong women into the Alpha Chi Omega sisterhood.

Past, Present and Future Dreams

BY JANIS ROSE HURTER

(ZETA OMICRON, VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY), NATIONAL HOUSING CORPORATION PRESIDENT

Sometimes, it’s hard for me to believe that the same woman who put liquid soap in the dishwasher as a collegiate house manager is now the president of the National Housing Corporation. But that is the beauty of Alpha Chi Omega – the memories and life lessons take you to places you couldn’t dream of.

I learned about home ownership and property management as a collegian at Zeta Omicron chapter at Vanderbilt University in the early 1990s. I smile now at some of my mistakes, like the soap, which resulted in bonding time with the officers, Amy Dunlap and Debbie Kleckner Day, who helped me mop up the kitchen. Then, I had to ask for forgiveness for trying to save the chapter money by ordering bulk paper goods, not realizing we didn’t have space to store it all.

I also spoke weekly at chapter meetings about my recycling collection goal to raise funds for Safe Haven Family Shelter. I attempted to make the “house fairy committee” (aka moving furniture) all about fun. I created a monthly meal plan so that we maximized our money. Sharing my experiences and tribulations with the incoming house manager and my senior-year roommate, Katheryn Shaffer Ray, was another leadership moment as I empowered her to improve the role.

I knew Alpha Chi Omega provided me with a safe and affordable housing experience to grow and strive for excellence. As an alumna, the bonds of sisterhood became even stronger with Gamma Psi Gamma alumnae chapter in Sacramento. That is when I realized Alpha Chi Omega was an organization I wanted to devote my time and philanthropic dollars to.

While volunteering with the Foundation’s For Now, Forever campaign, I had the pleasure of working alongside Faythe Luther Vorderstrasse (Alpha Rho, University of Idaho), a member of the Foundation’s first Board of Trustees and its second president. We roomed together at one meeting, and she said to me, “What’s your ‘next’? You have so much passion, and how will you make the world a better place?” I decided to apply for our Foundation’s Board of Trustees because I wanted to impact our organization – striving to make Leadership Academy accessible for four officers per chapter versus only one. Every dollar matters, and I want to pay it forward.

Alpha Chi Omega’s network of sisters has been incredible. Past National President Lynne Biggio Herndon (Alpha Upsilon, The University of Alabama) shared insights about the NHC, investment, audit and strategic planning while we both served on the Finance Advisory Committee, which are valuable in my NHC role today. As I transitioned into the NHC president role, Donna McGrath Klinge (Epsilon Kappa, California State University, Fullerton) spent time with me weekly. She transferred her knowledge and expertise and encouraged me to embrace my leadership style and desires for the years ahead. Mentorships are priceless, and I am deeply grateful to the many sisters who have inspired me.

Our Alpha Chi Omega memories transcend time and generations. It is a testament to the enduring human spirit, the power of community and the limitless potential we’ve cultivated through living our Real. Strong. Women. Experience. As we strive to fulfill our dreams, let us draw inspiration from the past, embrace the present and look forward to a future filled with possibilities.

JANIS ROSE HURTER

Support in Seeking the Heights

When Jessica Velte and Taylor Sawyer first met in the Gamma Iota (University of Florida) chapter, they couldn’t have imagined the way their friendship would intertwine. Not only did they both hold the role of vice president facility operations, but they also continued on to Ph.D. programs at the University of Florida in plant sciences. Taylor and Jessica share how the bond of Alpha Chi Omega has connected them from their collegiate days to today as they collaborate and cheer each other on in their work to improve food security.

Jessica: I joined the Gamma Iota chapter of Alpha Chi Omega my freshman year of college. I became friends with Taylor, and we later learned of our interest in

agriculture. One year, Taylor was VP facility operations and had been working at the UF blueberry lab. I had been her assistant but wanted to be more involved in the chapter and was interested in running for the executive board. She introduced me to the president of our local housing corporation, Brittany, who happened to also be the president of the Florida Blueberry Growers Association. I [talked] to Brittany about my interest in plant pathology. She said she knew a professor that I should reach out to – a blueberry pathologist! Soon after, I worked at the UF Plant Diagnostic Center and fell in love with the work.

Taylor: My sister, Jessica, and I share a special connection in our research areas; her focus on plant pathology complements my work as a breeder. Our shared expertise allows us to support each other in meaningful ways. Jessica has been a constant source of encouragement and inspiration throughout my academic journey. Having her by my side, especially during challenging times, has been invaluable to my success. Her professionalism, work ethic and kindness motivate me to push through obstacles in my personal and professional life. I am incredibly proud of her

TAYLOR SAWYER

JESSICA VELTE

“I’ve carried with me the core values I learned during my time in Alpha Chi: the true meaning of friendship, the strength of sisterhood and the incredible power of women uplifting one another.”

field collecting data, nothing was more comforting than walking down the hallway to Jessica’s room, where we’d catch up, share a laugh or enjoy a meal together. Jessica’s support was unwavering, and her excitement for me when I submitted my application to my Ph.D. program and was accepted made the moment even more special. People like Jessica are the ones who make life sweeter.

accomplishments and always try to be her biggest cheerleader, like watching her research win first place at the University of Florida’s 8th Annual Plant Science Symposium. Witnessing her success not only fills me with pride to be her sister but also inspires me in my own research goals.

Jessica: I’m in a field that I am very passionate about and working on research that aligns with my aspirations to improve food security. A Ph.D. is a big commitment, and there will be highs and lows of both grad school and research. Science is hard, which is what makes it so rewarding when you have a breakthrough or new idea. I have great support from my Gamma Iota sisters, like Taylor.

Taylor: Our bond goes beyond academia and is deeply rooted in our shared experience in Alpha Chi Omega during undergrad. Living together in the house and serving in the same officer role, VP facility operations, is a time I will always treasure. After long days in the

Jessica: Taylor probably doesn’t realize how much she has helped me with my transition into grad school. We work mainly in the same building (when she’s not out of town for strawberry season), and we talk all the time. She has been instrumental in giving me advice on how to navigate balancing classes and research as well as normal grad school dilemmas that all students go through. We still get to collaborate on things together, except now it’s at club meetings and about research, not on VP FO responsibilities. Our studies overlap in many cases, so it’s wonderful to be able to talk about our research and vent about long days when you have field work or are stuck working on the lab bench. Having her support makes me feel like I have a sister here in Gainesville that has my back. The relationships I’ve made from Alpha Chi Omega will truly last a lifetime. Through the highs and lows, my sisters have always been so supportive of me pursuing my dreams.

Taylor: Since graduating, I’ve carried with me the core values I learned during my time in Alpha Chi: the true meaning of friendship, the strength of sisterhood and the incredible power of women uplifting one another – values that drive my ambition and remind me of the potential we unlock when we support one another.

Jessica is a first-year Ph.D. student in plant pathology, focusing on phytobacteriology, the effects of the microbiome on plant health and disease management using biological controls. She seeks to make an impact in the health and sustainability of agriculture, especially considering problems such as chemical resistance in fungal and bacterial diseases.

Taylor is a second-year Ph.D. student in plant breeding, focusing on prediction and simulation of strawberry growth and development. She is passionate about increasing access to healthy fruits and building recognition of the vital role fresh produce plays in long-term health.

104 in 2024: Alpha Eta’s Centennial Celebration

BY THE ALPHA ETA CENTENNIAL COMMITTEE

In early 2018, a committee formed to plan Alpha Eta’s Centennial Celebration. The committee planned a beautiful weekend for the fall of 2020 to celebrate 100 years of Alpha Chi Omega at the University of Mount Union. Of course, by mid-2020 we knew that our celebration could not happen the way it had been planned. We delayed, rescheduled, postponed, rescheduled again and finally decided to cancel. In fall 2023 at our annual meeting, a group of Beta Psi Beta (Alliance, Ohio and Alpha Eta Initiates) alumnae chapter members brought up the idea of a belated centennial celebration, and from there the plan came to fruition.

A group of 14 sisters worked diligently from then on to host “104 Years of Sisterhood” from October 11-13, 2024. On Friday night, we met for the reunion dinner at a local venue and were joined by more than 100 sisters ranging from the member class of 1952 to the member class of 2024. Sisters sang songs, made toasts, viewed composites and other chapter memorabilia, and truly enjoyed being together. The committee organized an auction, which over the course of the weekend helped to raise close to $2,000 for our scholarships and chapter programming.

The University of Mount Union is known for our football program, so on Saturday Beta Psi Beta organized a homecoming tailgate with alumnae and collegians. We again had sisters of all ages join us for fun and football. And of course, we all loved to see a Raider win!

Our celebration concluded on Sunday, when we hosted the Alpha Eta collegians and alumnae for brunch and our official centennial program. Earlier in 2024, the local house corporation sold the Alpha Eta house to the university, and management transitioned to the National Housing Corporation. The NHC and the university then worked together on a complete remodel of the house. Part of our program was the rededication of the house, which was especially meaningful because two of the members responsible for building the house in the 1960s were there to celebrate with us. We hosted a memorial ceremony for sisters who had passed, distributed four scholarships to current Alpha Eta collegians, honored sisters with their 50year pins, heard from National President Jennifer Daurora, celebrated Alpha Eta being recognized with the National Council Trophy at convention and honored sister Marcia Thomas on 72 years of membership in Alpha Chi Omega.

Looking back on the weekend, we can’t think of a better way to have celebrated 104 years of Alpha Eta at the University of Mount Union. Sisters that had not seen each other in decades got to exchange hugs, and our newer sisters (collegians and the two alumnae initiates that Beta Psi Beta sponsored) saw a bigger picture of what the Alpha Chi Omega experience is. This weekend was magical, and one that we will all remember for a very long time. One hundred years is an amazing milestone, and we are so thankful that we got to spend time celebrating all of our sisters past and present.

ALUMNAE AND COLLEGIANS OF ALPHA ETA CHAPTER AT THE CENTENNIAL EVENT; PHOTO BY CHLOE BIRD

AXΩ Events

Alpha Chi Omegas have been busy the past few months! As part of the Real. Strong. Women. Experience, several national events provided our members with leadership training, personal growth and connection. Enjoy some highlights and then visit alphachiomega.org/blog to read about the events in detail!

More than 550 collegiate officers kicked off their terms with LEADERSHIP ACADEMY in January! From a competitive game of Ritual trivia and a policy review session that crowned sisters either a “Bylaw Baddie” or “Serving Safety” to analyzing case studies and learning how to lead empathetically, the weekend was packed with innovative sessions, sisterhood and discovering how to turn aspirations into achievements.

Alpha Chi Omega alumnae chapter officers gathered virtually on February 2 for learning, connection and growth at the biennial ALUMNAE CHAPTER OFFICER RETREAT! More than 150 sisters representing 96 alumnae chapters enjoyed large group trainings, panel discussions and breakout conversations on topics ranging from planning intentional events to maximizing leadership potential. Special highlights included a welcome from CEO Katie Gaffin and an exclusive session with National President Jennifer Daurora, with fun and giveaways sprinkled throughout the day!

STAY CONNECTED WITH ALPHA CHI!

COLLEGIATE GROWTH ACADEMY focuses on recruitment, retention and marketing. After the event February 21-23, collegiate officers took valuable lessons back to their chapters, including the importance of yearround recruiting and how to market to today’s PNMs.

Love is … celebrating healthy relationships! From February 10-14, sisters from coast to coast honored HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS WEEK. This time of the year is a meaningful reminder to reflect and celebrate the ways we nurture and grow healthy relationships in our lives – be it with family, friends, sisters or ourselves!

From candle-making to mini-golf, arts events to dinner, read about the fun had by all during ALPHA CHI NIGHT OUT, celebrated on Galentine’s Day, February 13. Alumnae, mark your calendar for February 12, 2026 to celebrate #AXONightOut next year!

April is SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS MONTH . Members will continue their philanthropic commitment by sharing education, participating in Denim Day and supporting survivors.

The Alpha Chi Omega Foundation’s DAY OF GIVING is 1 day, 8 hours and 85 minutes of generosity, starting on April 3. All gifts to the Real. Strong. Women. Fund will make a direct impact on our sisterhood.

Spring Into Book Club!

Join thousands of Alpha Chi Omegas who share a love of reading in our virtual book club. Questions will be posted toward the end of each month in the “AXO Alumnae Book Club” Facebook group so you can share your thoughts and connect with sisters. Here’s what we’re reading next!

APRIL 2025

THE HOUSE OF EVE

BY SADEQA JOHNSON

Two women from different worlds are brought together by secrets, love and the choices that will shape their futures. The novel follows Ruby, a bright young woman with dreams of escaping her Philadelphia neighborhood, and Eleanor, a Howard University student navigating the pressures of race, class and marriage in Washington, D.C. Rich in historical detail and emotional depth, The House of Eve is a powerful story of motherhood, ambition and resilience.

DISCUSSION DATES: APRIL 21-25

MAY 2025

THE LOST BOOKSHOP

BY EVIE WOODS

“On a quiet street in Dublin, a lost bookshop is waiting to be found…” A vanishing bookshop casts it spell on three strangers who learn all too quickly that their own lives are just as exciting as the ones in the books they love. This heartwarming novel transports readers from a past world of hardship to a future of hope through the transformative power of books.

DISCUSSION DATES: MAY 26-30

JUNE 2025

FUNNY STORY

BY EMILY HENRY

Daphne loves her own love story with fiancé Peter until he informs her he is actually in love with his childhood best friend, Petra. Stranded, alone and working her dream job in Waning Bay, Michigan, Daphne finds herself roommates with Petra’s ex, Miles. As they formulate a plan to post misleading photos of their summer adventures, Daphne and Miles end up in a comical situation that slowly transforms into a deeper connection, challenging their perceptions of love, friendship and starting over.

DISCUSSION DATES: JUNE 23-27

2025 Collegiate Chapter Award Recipients

Congratulations to the collegiate chapters that were recognized with Alpha Chi Omega’s 2025 national awards! Winners were announced at Leadership Academy in January so that chapter officers could celebrate in person. We are so proud of our chapters’ hard work and dedication to the Real. Strong. Women. Experience during the 2024 calendar year. Individual award recipients will be announced in the coming months.

NATIONAL COUNCIL TROPHY

This award is presented annually to the collegiate chapters that displayed the most significant achievements in chapter management, member support and development. These chapters exemplify the ideals and mission of Alpha Chi Omega.

ZETA SIGMA (MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY)

Zeta Sigma chapter prioritized innovative programming and intentional connection to strengthen sisterhood. The chapter created Pearl Groups, strategically grouping sisters from different classes to foster diverse connections. The chapter brought sisters together to connect, learn or celebrate at events like a clothing swap, risk management Jeopardy, a love language social campaign, a Real Strong Women’s Weekend and a service day. Zeta Sigma focused on creating ways to support each other, from working to break down barriers around talking about mental health to recognizing members for accomplishments and contributions through carnation passes at chapter.

THETA LAMBDA (CLEMSON UNIVERSITY)

Theta Lambda chapter incorporated connection, creativity and education to create impactful experiences for members. Sisters came together in camaraderie at events like gameday gatherings, trivia nights, sweatshirt making, themed retreats and philanthropic bracelet making. Leaders focused on celebrating individual members through sister of the week recognition, senior spotlights and an arts showcase where members presented their visual art, music or writing to the chapter. The chapter hosted workshops and programming like a vision board night, academic mentoring, stress management and career readiness to help members explore and reach their goals.

IOTA PHI (QUINNIPIAC UNIVERSITY)

Iota Phi chapter focused on fostering belonging and developing programming to help promote personal development. Chapter leaders planned programming and initiatives based on member feedback, which included workshops on leadership development, career planning and mental health awareness. Members are regularly recognized for their achievements in academics, leadership and service during weekly chapter meetings. The chapter built strong relationships among sisters through mentoring opportunities, Founders’ Day celebrations and fun sisterhood events like paint classes, bouquet making, game nights and more.

CONTINUING EXCELLENCE AWARD

This award is presented annually to the collegiate chapters with sustained success after winning the National Council Trophy within the past five years.

ALPHA UPSILON (THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA)

Alpha Upsilon chapter worked to enhance the membership experience at every stage of sisterhood. Programming was offered to help sisters explore involvement on campus, learn important life skills, prepare for internships and post-grad jobs, and more. By prioritizing member feedback, the chapter implemented changes to operational procedures like room selection and positive points and hosted programming that sisters were most interested in like paint classes, movie nights and leadership trainings. The chapter also connected to the greater University of Alabama community by encouraging members to get involved in more than 100 oncampus organizations, hosting swaps and events with other organizations, and raising awareness for domestic violence through philanthropic events.

BETA SIGMA (UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA)

Beta Sigma chapter focused on creating strong bonds within the sisterhood and learning together. Members connected and had fun at Monday night dinners before chapter meetings, craft nights, salsa dance lessons, a Founders’ Day game night and so much more! The chapter also learned together with workshops focused on study tips, relieving stress and healthy relationships. Members of the executive board focused on delegation and organization through monthly roster meetings, improved communication in weekly chapter and exec board meetings, and regular meetings with advisors. Throughout the year, the chapter raised awareness about the prevalence of domestic violence and sexual assault while actively supporting their local shelter through fundraising efforts and weekly volunteer shifts at its thrift store.

EPSILON LAMBDA (THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT ARLINGTON)

Epsilon Lambda chapter created a more collaborative sisterhood and made a significant impact on the community. To address members feeling detached from the chapter during the summer, each executive board member reached out to a small group of sisters in June, July and August. This initiative significantly improved summer retention. Members prioritized collaboration by implementing practices such as having two chairs for each day of recruitment. Additionally, officers collaborated on programming efforts, including a joint self-care day hosted by the vice president risk management and the vice president diversity, equity and inclusion. The chapter not only raised awareness about domestic violence in the community but also raised more than $48,000, making its largest donation to date to SafeHaven of Tarrant County.

Continued on next page...

CHAPTER PROGRESS AWARD

This award is presented to the chapters that have displayed significant growth and progress in the areas of chapter operations, member support and development in the past calendar year.

NU (UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO BOULDER)

Nu chapter has made strides in many areas of chapter life, demonstrating a commitment to growth, inclusion and well-being. Leaders shifted to a more supportive and empathetic approach in both harm reduction and accountability through educational workshops, explanation of how policies connect to member safety and addressing behavior concerns through a lens of care. With more than 400 members in the chapter, officers implemented voluntary affinity groups based on member feedback to foster deeper connections through shared interests, backgrounds and characteristics. The executive board also increased the number of social and sisterhood events and was strategic about offering a mix of small, medium and large events throughout the year to help sisters better connect.

BETA DELTA (COLLEGE OF WILLIAM & MARY)

The Beta Delta chapter has progressed in many areas including academics, chapter programming, inclusivity and wellness. Chapter leaders encouraged members to pursue intellectual development beyond class through initiatives like a chapter book club and educational programs focused on career exploration. The chapter achieved the highest sorority GPA for the academic year. Leaders organized a variety of programs for sisters that ranged from learning about relevant issues like healthy and unhealthy relationships to getting active through a pickleball tournament. Sisters were encouraged to share events and endeavors outside of Alpha Chi at chapter meetings, which helped create a culture where sisters supported each other at dance shows, half marathons, research presentations and more.

IOTA SIGMA (SOUTHERN METHODIST UNIVERSITY)

The Iota Sigma chapter demonstrated progress in operations, recruitment, retention and programming. The chapter executed two formal recruitment cycles in one calendar year as the campus transitioned to fall formal recruitment. Welcoming two large new member classes required substantial operational organization and strategic planning by chapter leaders. The chapter prioritized building stronger connections among sisters through activities such as craft nights, workout classes, mystery dinners, coffee dates and retreats. Members continue to learn together through workshops focused on wellness and diversity education. The chapter’s dedication to service was evident in its signature event, Alpha Chi Couture, which raised more than $210,000 to support domestic violence awareness initiatives.

ADDITIONAL COLLEGIATE CHAPTER AWARDS

SEEKING THE HEIGHTS –CHAPTER GROWTH

This award is presented to the chapters that have performed exceptionally in marketing and promoting the sorority experience to potential new members and welcoming new members into Alpha Chi Omega.

• Alpha Eta (University of Mount Union)

• Alpha Iota (University of Vermont)

• Alpha Mu (Indiana University)

SEEKING THE HEIGHTS –CHAPTER OPERATIONS

This award is presented to chapters that have surpassed expectations in all aspects of chapter operations and management, ensuring that Alpha Chi Omega’s policies and processes are consistently upheld by both chapter leadership and members.

• Alpha Nu (University of Missouri)

• Iota Sigma (Southern Methodist University)

• Kappa Phi (Loyola Marymount University)

SEEKING THE HEIGHTS –MEMBER RETENTION

This award is presented to the chapters that have made exceptional strides in creating and maintaining programming and events for sisters at every stage of collegiate membership that strive to connect them to each other and to Alpha Chi Omega.

• Theta (University of Michigan)

• Beta Eta (Florida State University)

• Zeta Upsilon (Case Western Reserve University)

SEEKING

THE HEIGHTS –MEMBER WELLNESS

This award is presented to the chapters that have been outstanding in providing wellness activities, promoting mental health programming, and educating on and implementing harm reduction strategies to support the safety and well-being of their members.

• Beta Eta (Florida State University)

• Delta Epsilon (Southeast Missouri State University)

• Epsilon Phi (Georgia Institute of Technology)

SEEKING THE HEIGHTS –REAL.

STRONG. WOMEN. EXPERIENCE

This award is presented to the chapters that have proven exceptional dedication to providing programming and educational opportunities to their members.

• Beta Epsilon (Michigan State University)

• Gamma Tau (Oklahoma City University)

• Epsilon Upsilon (Mississippi State University)

DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION AWARD

This award is presented to the chapters that have worked to educate members on issues related to diversity and inclusion internally as well as participate in diversity and inclusion efforts in their community and on campus.

• Gamma Upsilon (University of Houston)

• Epsilon Zeta (Auburn University)

• Theta Omicron (Massachusetts Institute of Technology)

CHAPTER INNOVATION AWARD

This award is presented to the chapters that host a signature event or initiative within the calendar year that is both creative and innovative.

• Epsilon Zeta (Auburn University)

• Zeta Nu (Texas A&M University)

• Zeta Sigma (Missouri State University)

Growing Our Circle

EXPANDING OUR IMPACT TOGETHER

BY MORGAN ELAM (EPSILON ZETA, AUBURN UNIVERSITY), FOUNDATION COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

The Foundation exists to help fulfill the promise of the Real. Strong. Women. Experience that Alpha Chi Omega makes to its members. This mission is realized through the Foundation’s support of the Fraternity Grant request.

Every year, the Fraternity submits a grant request to the Foundation for the total cost of its educational and philanthropic programs eligible for funding under IRS guidelines. The Foundation’s goal is to fund the request fully; however, the Fraternity’s need significantly outweighs the available funding in most years.

Leadership Circle donors, who give $1,000 or more annually to the Real. Strong. Women. Fund, play an important role in the Fraternity Grant process. Their gifts make up a significant portion of the Foundation’s annual unrestricted fundraising and are critical to our ability to fund the Fraternity Grant request. (To learn more about Leadership Circle and its benefits, check out the “All About Leadership Circle” article on page 19!)

In February, the Foundation launched Growing Our Circle, an initiative to increase the Foundation’s ability to fund the Fraternity Grant through ambitious growth in annual giving to the Real. Strong. Women. Fund through the Leadership Circle program.

Growing Our Circle aims to expand this circle of support through three goals:

1. More than double the number of Leadership Circle donors to 850

2. Increase the level of annual giving by Leadership Circle members

3. Reach a new generation of donors through the addition of the Olive Circle

Increased participation in Leadership Circle leads to more dollars for the Real. Strong. Women. Fund and the Fraternity Grant, which means that the Fraternity can continue to develop and expand its programs each year. Keeping our programs relevant and accessible ensures a strong and thriving future for our sisterhood.

THE FRATERNITY GRANT FUNDS A VARIETY OF EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS FOR COLLEGIANS AND ALUMNAE INCLUDING LEADERSHIP ACADEMY, WOMEN & WISDOM, MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES, ROTATIONAL PROGRAMS AND MORE!

As part of Growing Our Circle, the Foundation has introduced two new recognition levels within Leadership Circle – Olive Circle and Leadership Circle Platinum.

OLIVE CIRCLE

Our Millennial and Gen Z sisters are the future of the Foundation’s support! Olive Circle, which recognizes donors aged 30 and younger who make annual gifts of $500 or more to the Real. Strong. Women. Fund, provides an opportunity for those sisters to directly engage with Foundation leadership and other top donors. Joining Olive Circle is a great opportunity for young alumnae to begin their legacy of giving while connecting with like-minded sisters.

“Giving back to Alpha Chi Omega is important to me because it was such an integral part of my college experience. During COVID, some of the only times I got to see my friends was during chapter meetings through Zoom. Giving back means that I might be able to make someone else feel like they found their home and safe place as it did for me.

It means a lot to be a part of a giving community alongside other Alpha Chis. A big part of Alpha Chi Omega is being able to be charitable, and it’s nice to know that I’m able to make an impact.”

- MEGHAN LACY

ALPHA CHI (BUTLER UNIVERSITY)

“I was inspired to join Olive Circle and support the Foundation as a young alumna because I believe giving back isn’t reserved for when you’re older and have a more substantial income. It is an opportunity I have the means to participate in now and an organization that I believe in and can tangibly see the benefits of. Giving back to Alpha Chi Omega through my time and my treasure is important to me because it is a tangible way to uphold the values that drew me to join Alpha Chi in the first place while ensuring a meaningful experience is continued for all members – present and future.

To other young alumnae who may be interested in giving back to Alpha Chi Omega, just start – that is the hardest

MEGHAN LACY (CENTER) AND RACHEL LACY (RIGHT), INAUGURAL OLIVE CIRCLE MEMBERS, WITH THEIR MOM AND PAST NATIONAL COUNCIL MEMBER, JILL SABATINO LACY (GAMMA MU, BALL STATE UNIVERSITY)

part. Our philanthropic disposition and values were never meant to end once we graduated. No amount is too small or unseen. Any gift is worthwhile as it all helps to create the unique, impactful Alpha Chi Omega experience.”

- RACHEL LACY

SIGMA (UNIVERSITY OF IOWA)

As a special thank you, the first 77 members of Olive Circle will receive an olive Swarovski crystal dangle to add to their badge, proudly displaying their commitment to Alpha Chi Omega!

LEADERSHIP CIRCLE PLATINUM

Created in honor of our founding year, Leadership Circle Platinum recognizes donors who give $8,500 or more annually to the Real. Strong. Women. Fund.

The Foundation was proud to welcome 30 sisters into the inaugural Leadership Circle Platinum class in 2024. These especially generous sisters go above and beyond in their commitment to Alpha Chi Omega, inspiring and leading the way for others.

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THE OLIVE CIRCLE DANGLE

THE OLIVE CIRCLE RECEPTION AT THE 2024 NATIONAL CONVENTION

Join Our Circle Today!

LEADERSHIP CIRCLE BY THE NUMBERS:

DURING THE 2023-24 FISCAL YEAR, LEADERSHIP CIRCLE DONORS GAVE MORE THAN $1 MILLION TO THE REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. FUND.

25% OF THE 2023-24 FISCAL YEAR LEADERSHIP CIRCLE MEMBERS HAVE BEEN MEMBERS EVERY ONE OF THE NINE YEARS SINCE THE GIVING CIRCLE WAS CREATED.

112 CURRENT LEADERSHIP CIRCLE MEMBERS ARE ALSO FOUNDATION PARTNERS, THE FOUNDATION’S COMMUNITY OF MONTHLY DONORS.

FOUNDATION TIP: ALL GIFTS TO THE REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. FUND COUNT TOWARD LEADERSHIP CIRCLE QUALIFICATION AND CAN BE MADE AS A SINGLE ANNUAL GIFT OR THROUGH MULTIPLE GIFTS DURING FOUNDATION INITIATIVES (DIRECT MAIL, DAY OF GIVING, FOUNDERS’ DAY CHALLENGE OR STAR BOOTH) THROUGHOUT THE FOUNDATION’S FISCAL YEAR (AUGUST 1-JULY 31).

RECURRING CREDIT CARD GIFTS TOTALING MORE THAN $1,000 PER YEAR ALSO COUNT TOWARD LEADERSHIP CIRCLE.

Will you help us grow our circle and fulfill our promise of the Real. Strong. Women. Experience?

By joining Leadership Circle, you empower the next generation of real, strong women, supporting them in becoming better leaders, volunteers and helpers in their communities. Together, we can grow our circle and expand our impact.

Scan the QR code to join Leadership Circle today!

For alumnae aged 30 or younger, visit give.alphachiomega.org/OliveCircle to join Olive Circle, the Foundation’s community of donors committed to furthering the work of Alpha Chi Omega!

For questions about Leadership Circle or the Growing Our Circle initiative, please contact the Foundation at foundation@alphachiomega.org or 317-579-5050, ext. 0290.

All About Leadership Circle

BY MORGAN ELAM (EPSILON ZETA, AUBURN UNIVERSITY), FOUNDATION COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

Leadership Circle is a community of the Foundation’s most engaged and generous sisters who invest $1,000 or more annually in the Real. Strong. Women.® Fund. They have a unique opportunity to empower the philanthropic, educational and leadership initiatives of Alpha Chi Omega.

THE LEVELS

The Foundation is proud to offer additional recognition levels within Leadership Circle:

• Olive Circle: $500 (for ages 30 and younger)

• Leadership Circle: $1,000

• Leadership Circle Silver: $2,500

• Leadership Circle Gold: $5,000

• Leadership Circle Platinum: $8,500

THE BENEFITS

Leadership Circle donors receive invitations to quarterly webinars with Fraternity and Foundation leaders, opportunities to engage with other members of Leadership Circle, and special communications and recognition throughout the year.

New this year, Leadership Circle donors also have access to the Leadership Circle Boutique, where they have the opportunity to purchase exclusive Alpha Chi Omega merchandise and swag, curated just for Leadership Circle donors.

DISCOVERY EXPERIENCE

In addition to other benefits, Leadership Circle members at the Silver level and above are invited to attend Discovery Experience, a unique donor-centric experience held alongside Leadership Academy.

Discovery Experience is a special opportunity for Leadership Circle donors to see their dollars at work. Throughout the weekend, attendees spend time connecting with collegiate officers, participating in exclusive programming with the National Council and Board of Trustees, and networking with fellow donors.

For more information about Discovery Experience, please contact Madeline Jenkins, director of development and engagement, at mjenkins@alphachiomega.org.

HOUSING

SPOTLIGHT: Vice Presidents Facility Operations

BY KENDALL SUESS (GAMMA EPSILON, OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY), ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF HOUSING

The vice presidents facility operations (VPs FO) at Alpha Chi Omega chapters work closely with the National Housing Corporation (NHC) or their local house corporations (LHCs), as well as house directors, to ensure that chapter facilities are well-maintained, safe and provide a comfortable living environment for members.

Each VP FO plays a crucial role in helping maintain the facility. Responsibilities typically include coordinating with the house director on repair and maintenance reporting, managing chapter budgets for facility-related items, coordinating housing agreements and oftentimes working with kitchen staff to create menus. This role is important in creating a supportive home for Alpha Chi Omega members, enhancing their overall experience within the chapter.

The VP FO role also offers members an opportunity to grow! Looking beyond college, skills like problem solving, teamwork and budgeting help our members with professional development and prepare them for their future careers.

Let’s hear from some of our 2024 VPs FO, Q&A style!

JULIA ESCH (DELTA ZETA, CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY)

WHAT PROFESSIONAL SKILLS DID YOU GAIN DURING YOUR TIME AS VP FO?

I learned how to be a confident communicator. While working with multiple companies as well as our house management, I represented my chapter and the legacy of our home. This gave me an opportunity to expand on being a professional communicator and an advocate for my community of women! I learned so much about myself and my capabilities, and even more so, I learned how loyal the members of Alpha Chi Omega are. As I enter into my next phase of life, I’m grateful to my chapter for trusting me with this position and allowing me to show myself the responsibility I am capable of.

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF BEING YOUR CHAPTER’S VP FO?

My favorite part of being VP FO was the wonderful women I worked with in my chapter. I got to see their leadership ability and deep loyalty to our facility. It was an honor to collaborate with my sisters!

DELTA ZETA (CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY) SISTERS TOGETHER IN THE CHAPTER FACILITY

LAUREN ANDERSON

(DELTA OMEGA, UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY)

HOW DID SERVING AS VP FO HELP WITH YOUR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT?

It taught me that you can’t always prepare for everything! I’m the type of person where I have my whole life planned out and want to be in control of every situation, but I quickly learned that that can’t always be the case, which is OK. This role put me in situations where I didn’t know what to do, and I had to figure out how to solve that problem. It also taught me to reach for my goals and go above and beyond them by pushing myself out of my comfort zone. I now have the communication, time management, organization and confidence to help me with what gets thrown my way.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPACE IN YOUR CHAPTER FACILITY AND WHY?

My favorite space would have to be the living room couches or the kitchen table; they are always where I see the most people. I have had some of my favorite conversations there and gotten to know so many people that I didn’t know before I moved into this house. I’ve never had spaces like this before, so being able to experience this in my chapter house has truly been one of my favorite memories of my college experience.

CLAIRE SCHIE

(EPSILON PHI, GEORGIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY)

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPACE IN THE CHAPTER FACILITY AND WHY?

We are fortunate to have a space called the Media Room, with big, comfortable couches and a projector. It played a pivotal role in building the lifelong relationships I cherish. As an out-of-state student, I initially struggled to find a sense of home at Georgia Tech. I missed the simple moments of sitting on the couch with my family and watching TV while doing homework. I knew I had found my place in Alpha Chi Omega when I realized I was sharing those same moments that I longed for with my family back at home, now with my sisters.

HOW DID SERVING AS VP FO HELP WITH YOUR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT?

This experience taught me to set meaningful goals and work diligently to achieve them. Collaborating with people in diverse roles ... helped me develop the confidence to stand my ground and effectively communicate my ideas. Rarely do we get to see the direct impact of our work on a community, but this role gave me that privilege. Listening to the needs of my chapter and coming up with solutions that made a real difference has instilled a deep confidence in my ability to create positive change, wherever life takes me.

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FORMER VP FO LAUREN ANDERSON AND DELTA OMEGA SISTERS IN THE CHAPTER FACILITY

FORMER VP FO CLAIRE SCHIE WITH EPSILON PHI SISTERS IN FRONT OF THE CHAPTER FACILITY.

RILEY SCHRAG

(ZETA SIGMA, MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY)

HOW DID SERVING AS VP FO HELP WITH YOUR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT?

Being VP FO taught me so much about teamwork, staying organized and handling a variety of responsibilities. I’ve learned how to be a better leader, stay organized and communicate with all kinds of people. I’ve learned how to manage projects and work with others, which I know will come in handy in the future. It’s been such a rewarding experience!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPACE IN YOUR CHAPTER FACILITY AND WHY?

My favorite space is the living room because it’s where our sisterhood comes to life. This space is filled with memories and laughter, and it’s where we truly connect as a chapter. It represents everything I love about Alpha Chi Omega!

PAIGE GIARRUSSO (LAMBDA PI, UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI)

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY OF BEING YOUR CHAPTER’S VP FO?

My favorite memory as VP FO was Move-In Day. After months of hard work preparing the house for our first group of live-in members, it was so rewarding to see everything come together. It was also amazing to begin forming relationships with my sisters and, of course, see their beautifully decorated rooms!

WHAT PROFESSIONAL SKILLS HAVE YOU GAINED FROM YOUR TIME AS VP FO?

I gained many professional skills, such as budgeting, problem-solving and time management. But what I value the most is working with my fellow executive board members, improving my communication and teamwork skills. This role has also boosted my self-confidence by teaching me to trust myself and my abilities, take accountability, and improve my communication skills.

THE NHC VALUES THE ROLE VP S FACILITY OPERATIONS PLAY IN HOUSING AND APPRECIATES THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE OVERALL SUCCESS AND WELL-BEING OF THEIR CHAPTERS. THIS COLLABORATION FOSTERS A SUPPORTIVE AND THRIVING COMMUNITY AT OUR MEMBERS’ HOMES AWAY FROM HOME!

FORMER VP FO RILEY SCHRAG AND ZETA SIGMA SISTERS IN THE CHAPTER FACILITY

FORMER VP FO PAIGE GIARRUSSO AND LAMBDA PI SISTERS IN THEIR CHAPTER FACILITY

Welcome to the NHC, Gamma Xi and Sigma!

BY KENDALL SUESS (GAMMA EPSILON, OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY), ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF HOUSING

A SKETCH OF THE GAMMA XI FACILITY FROM THE ORIGINAL BLUEPRINTS IN THE 1960S

The National Housing Corporation (NHC) welcomed Gamma Xi (Western Michigan University) and Sigma (University of Iowa) chapters this past winter as the facilities transitioned over from being managed by local house corporations (LHCs) to the NHC.

Both chapters have been on their campuses since the 1900s, and their LHCs oversaw all of the facilities’ operations for many decades. The NHC appreciates the dedication and hard work of the alumnae volunteers of these LHCs, whose commitment has made these chapter facilities welcoming homes for many Alpha Chi Omega members over the years.

The NHC looks forward to collaborating with Gamma Xi and Sigma for many years ahead, continually enhancing the housed member experience. Here are some historical facts about the newly transitioned chapters!

GAMMA XI CHAPTER FACILITY THE ORIGINAL SIGMA CHAPTER FACILITY

GAMMA XI (WESTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY)

Gamma Xi was established at Western Michigan University on April 21, 1951. Originally founded as a debate society in 1916, it was one of the first sororities at the university and became part of Alpha Chi Omega in 1951. Located on Fraternity Village Dr. in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the chapter house has been home to Alpha Chi Omega sisters since 1969 and can accommodate 40 live-in members. Recently, the chapter has hosted events such as big/little reveal, Family Weekend and various philanthropy events at the facility.

SIGMA (UNIVERSITY OF IOWA)

Our Sigma chapter was founded at the University of Iowa on June 13, 1911. The original Sigma house, a cherished home for many years, was destroyed in April 2006 by a devastating tornado in Iowa City, Iowa. In 2008, the LHC completed the construction of a new, impressive fourstory facility for members. This chapter house, located on E. Washington St., can accommodate up to 46 live-in members.

Pedaling for a Purpose

BY EMMA WILLE , MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

5,258. That’s how many miles stretch between Austin, Texas and Anchorage, Alaska on the Sierra route. For Avery Wong (Alpha Phi, The University of Texas at Austin) that number also represents a lifechanging experience. Over the course of 70 days, she made that journey to not only impact her own life but also make a difference for others.

Growing up in Austin, Avery remembers her first interaction with the organization Texas 4000 for Cancer when she was in eighth grade riding in the car with her parents. “I saw this group of college-aged cyclists biking around Austin with jerseys proclaiming, ‘Fighting Cancer Every Mile,’” she explains. The group piqued her interest, since her dad had been biking Avery’s whole life.

“Every year my dad would do a two-day charity bike ride from Houston to Austin. As a kid, it was a dream to be able to do a bike ride like that with my dad one day. Back then, it felt like an unattainable goal since I was barely biking without training wheels,” she says. So, when she saw the young group of college students biking together for one mission, the dream of following in her father’s footsteps felt like maybe one day it could be real.

Soon Avery found herself in high school, where she developed a close relationship with her teacher, Mrs. Kirsten Mulligan.

“She is a contagious, energetic ray of sunshine,” Avery says. “Even on the longest days of the year, she never failed to energize my day, put a smile on my face or make my difficult days a little better.” In the fall of Avery’s senior year, Mrs. Mulligan lost her husband to

According to the Texas 4000 website, the event is the world’s largest annual bike ride, with several routes participants can follow from Austin to Anchorage. The organization selects UT Austin students like Avery for an 18-month program that helps them train for the bike ride and empowers them to volunteer and raise funds for the fight against cancer. The riders are self-sufficient for the 70-day journey and rely on the generosity of local communities for places to sleep along the way.

After countless hours of training and raising funds, Avery was ready to take on the Texas 4000 in the summer of 2024. Her team took the Sierra route, hugging the southwest desert and along the Pacific coast, eventually entering Canada in Vancouver. As you can imagine, the journey wasn’t always easy.

“Every day brought struggles,” Avery recalls. “Sometimes it was finding out our accommodations for that evening fell apart; some days our ride included a 12-mile steady

AVERY’S ROUTE FROM TEXAS TO ALASKA

climb in dry, desert heat; other times the struggle was living a nomadic lifestyle; and in some moments, the struggles were inevitable accidents on the road that come with biking alongside cars or in areas of no cell service.” However, these obstacles only kept pushing Avery forward, helping her grow with each and every mile. In fact, some of the most challenging days turned out to be filled with the best memories.

On day 11 of the trip, the team faced the most challenging ride yet, biking from Page, Arizona to Kanab, Utah. With a 10-mile climb, ferocious headwinds and over 100 degrees of heat, everyone was completely exhausted. Looking forward to their next rest stop, Avery had no idea what was in store. “We stayed with the sweetest couple; they welcomed our team wearing funny circus hats and the biggest smiles,” she says. “We had initially planned on stopping there as a rest stop, but as we stayed longer at their house, we started puzzles, did some laundry and got some access to Wi-Fi. But even more than the amenities they offered, they showered us with love. After asking nicely, we ended up spending the night at their house and slept on their roof. We got to fall asleep under the Milky Way surrounded by the Zion canyons.”

of the route were the people who had motivated her for the entire journey: her dad and Mrs. Mulligan. The feeling was surreal, especially since Avery didn’t have any idea what to expect after the 5,258-mile journey. “There were a lot of emotions,” she says. “On one hand, I was happy that the ride ended because I was exhausted, but at the same time, I had just spent every waking moment for 70 days with the same 24 people, and within hours we went our separate ways.”

Avery’s journey was much more than just a physical challenge. Through it all, she was able to honor the ones she holds close and raise awareness for the fight against cancer. And while the ride may have ended in Anchorage, the lessons and experiences will stay with her for a lifetime.

AVERY WONG

AVERY ARRIVING IN ALASKA

Four Programs, Limitless Impact

FULFILLING THE REAL. STRONG. WOMEN.

EXPERIENCE PROMISE THROUGH ROTATIONAL PROGRAMS

BY AUTUMN MCBRIDE (TAU, BRENAU UNIVERSITY), EDUCATION AND ENGAGEMENT MANAGER

As part of the Real. Strong. Women. Experience, more than 18,000 Alpha Chi Omega collegians annually participate in educational programming through four rotational programs: Let’s Talk Love, Alcohol Skills Training Program (ASTP), Kaleidoscope and InTune. The goal is for every member to experience each program before graduating. Facilitated by more than 80 generous Alpha Chi Omega volunteers, these programs empower members to pursue their ambitions, foster personal growth and create meaningful change.

LET’S TALK LOVE

Launched in 2016, Let’s Talk Love educates collegiate members on dating violence, sexual assault and healthy relationships. It teaches members to recognize unhealthy relationships, identify warning signs, intervene when someone needs help and be a supportive friend. We proudly partner with the One Love Foundation, a leading organization in relationship abuse prevention and education, for part of the curriculum.

The knowledge gained and conversations had through Let’s Talk Love impact our members beyond their

collegiate years. In 2023-24, 98% of participants reported that Let’s Talk Love gave them the knowledge and tools to build healthy relationships in the future.

ALCOHOL SKILLS TRAINING PROGRAM

ASTP is an interactive program acknowledging that college students may choose to drink and focusing on evidence-based education to encourage steps toward reduced risks. Its goal is to educate students about alcohol, increase their ability to critically examine their drinking patterns and eventually implement the skills they learn.

Participants explore our risk management philosophy, learn how alcohol affects the body, and understand blood alcohol levels and tolerance. The program incorporates each chapter’s Sisterhood Survey data on drinking behaviors to identify strategies to reduce risk. After completing ASTP, 86% of participants think differently about their drinking behavior. The health and safety of our members is paramount to the Alpha Chi Omega experience, and we are proud to offer this valuable educational program for our members.

LET’S TALK LOVE WITH BETA PSI (LOUISIANA TECH UNIVERSITY)

GAMMA OMICRON (MARSHALL UNIVERSITY) AFTER ASTP

Reflect, Welcome and Commit.

The in-person program builds on these concepts through discussions on valuing differences, engaging in compassionate conversations, and understanding unconscious bias and microaggressions. Participants also brainstorm ways to foster inclusivity in their chapters and make personal commitments to developing spaces where all members are respected, are included and feel a sense of belonging.

From 2023-24 assessment data, 86% of participants shared that participating in Kaleidoscope increased their motivation to make positive change in their chapter and community.

INTUNE

Activity-based and chapter-driven, InTune helps members embrace vulnerability and understand how their priorities align with and contribute to those of Alpha Chi Omega. The program’s progression is rooted in our values of wisdom, devotion and achievement.

Members complete a pre-survey to assess chapter strengths and areas for growth, allowing facilitators to tailor the program to best address the chapter’s specific needs. Members explore Dr. Brené Brown’s “The Power of Vulnerability,” delve into dream making and dream managing, create a chapter-wide action plan and more!

In 2023-24, 81% of participants said they had grown as

the invaluable impact of our programming. “I wish everyone on campus, not just our sorority, was required to participate in this training,” said one ASTP participant. “I think it would prove to have significant effects on the world if programs like this one were implemented for more people, and more often! So thankful for this educational experience!”

We are excited to see the impact of our rotational programs for years to come!

Feeling inspired by the impact of our rotational programs? Consider making a gift to the Foundation’s Real. Strong. Women. Fund, which helps support our rotational programming efforts!

Are you interested in facilitating one of our rotational programs? Email volunteer@ alphachiomega.org for more information.

TAKE A PEEK INSIDE INTUNE WITH TWO ACTIVITIES OUR CHAPTERS EXPERIENCE!

PRIORITIES IDENTIFICATION ACTIVITY

“WHEN WE WORK TO BE VULNERABLE WITH OURSELVES AND OTHERS, IT MAY FEEL LIKE WEAKNESS, AND IT MIGHT BE UNCOMFORTABLE AT FIRST. THAT IS AN ACT OF COURAGE, WHICH ALLOWS US TO CONNECT AND DREAM TOWARD A BETTER FUTURE.”

OWNING OUR STORIES ACTIVITY

“DON’T LET YOUR INTERNAL VOICE TELL YOU YOUR DREAMS OR REALITIES ARE NOT WORTH IT. WRITE WITHOUT FEAR! ANYTHING FROM YOUR BUCKET LIST DREAMS TO YOUR BIG AND AUDACIOUS FUTURE GOALS ARE WORTHWHILE.”

THETA (UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN) AT KALEIDOSCOPE

Alpha Chis at Work

COLLEGIATE CHAPTERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE FOR DVA AND THEIR LOCAL COMMUNITIES

BY ELLE ROTTER (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY)

According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, women ages 18 to 34 experience the highest rates of intimate partner violence. The Hotline’s website also states that nearly one in five women have been raped in their lifetime.

Alpha Chi Omega’s national philanthropy is domestic violence awareness. Each chapter hosts events and raises money year-round to increase awareness about these shocking statistics and donate to various organizations such as the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation, the One Love Foundation and local women’s shelters that support women escaping dangerous relationships.

THERE ARE TWO MAIN WAYS OF GIVING BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY: FUNDRAISING/ DONATING MONEY AND COMMUNITY SERVICE . BOTH ARE IMPORTANT AND HELPFUL, DEPENDING ON WHAT THE ORGANIZATION NEEDS. MONETARY DONATIONS CAN HELP ORGANIZATIONS FUND PROGRAMS, SERVICES OR INFRASTRUCTURE. MEANWHILE, HANDS-ON VOLUNTEER WORK CAN HELP ORGANIZATIONS GET DAY-TO-DAY TASKS DONE SO THEY CAN FOCUS ON THE GREATER NEED.

Ten Alpha Chi Omega chapters were recently recognized with the Achievement in Service award for the highest average service hours per member. Each demonstrates the importance of service and philanthropy in its own unique way. Find out more about three and how their members are actively making a difference in their communities.

ALPHA CHI (BUTLER UNIVERSITY)

Amelia Moor is the outgoing vice president philanthropy for her

chapter. She ran for this position with the intention of supporting others in her community.

“It’s always been instilled from my parents and people around me that giving back is important,” Amelia says. “Doing what I can to help others succeed has been something that I’ve always strived to do. I knew that I was going to try my best to support the people around me, especially members of my own community.”

The Alpha Chi chapter raises money for the Julian Center in addition to the Alpha Chi Omega and One Love Foundations. The Julian Center is a women’s shelter in downtown Indianapolis that aims to equip survivors of domestic violence to live a life free from abuse. Alpha Chi members also volunteer at Thrifty Threads, a thrift store and donation center where women supported by the Julian Center can shop for free.

During Amelia’s term as VP philanthropy, the chapter achieved about 2,000 hours of community service

AMELIA MOOR TABLING FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS WITH ALPHA CHI CHAPTER

and raised more than $20,000. In addition, she led the chapter in educating the college community about domestic violence. Amelia’s favorite memory from her term was running Healthy Relationships Week, which celebrates the development of healthy relationships in hopes of preventing domestic violence and sexual assault.

“[We] focused on things like de-stressing, being with each other, moving our bodies and promoting health in that way,” she says. “We did events, not only on campus, but also just within our sisterhood, to promote healthy relationships. That was probably one of my favorites because it wasn’t as much [about raising] money; it was more advocating for education on campus.”

Amelia reflected on the impact that she made throughout her term by underlining the importance of education and awareness of domestic violence on Butler’s campus.

“[We focus] more on awareness and perspective of what other people go through,” she says. “A large part of our sorority’s mission is to promote authenticity and making sure people have the resources to be as successful as they can, whether that means they feel comfortable being themselves [or] they have a supportive community around them.”

IOTA SIGMA (SOUTHERN

METHODIST UNIVERSITY)

Ashley Isabelle decided to run for vice president philanthropy to become more involved in her chapter. Iota Sigma chapter donates specifically to the Genesis Women’s Shelter, on top of the Alpha Chi Omega and One Love Foundations.

“We try our best to stay actively involved in philanthropy,” Ashley says. “The girls care a lot about it [because] the cause that we support is directly related to everybody. With [domestic violence] being something that impacts our age group, realistically and unfortunately, it’s sadly easy to relate to.”

At the end of 2023, Ashley joined the models and retailers committee for Alpha Chi Couture, which is a fashion show and silent auction co-hosted by the Iota Sigma collegiate chapter and the Beta Kappa Beta alumnae chapter in Dallas. This experience inspired Ashley to run for VP philanthropy with the hopes of running the event in 2025.

“Our committee is huge,” Ashley says. “Our chapter members are always willing to help out, which is just a blessing. My committee for Couture is [about] 30 girls, and to have 30 girls who want to volunteer to help out is great, and I love that they want to get involved.”

The event is typically run during Mom’s Weekend, which encourages families and alumnae to attend the event. Models that walk in the fashion show are active members of the chapter, people from other campus organizations and women from the Genesis Women’s Shelter.

“We have a scene dedicated solely to women at the Genesis Women’s Shelter, which is always super awesome,” Ashley says. “I also love that because it’s nice to meet [the women] and know that the money is going to something real.”

Alpha Chi Couture is the chapter’s biggest philanthropy event of the year. In 2024, it brought in more than $200,000. Besides Alpha Chi Couture, Iota Sigma hosts events year-round to continue raising money, including an event called Paint Wars and tabling events throughout

IOTA SIGMA MEMBERS AT COUTURE

Domestic Violence Awareness Month. In 2024, Iota Sigma raised around $220,000 that went toward raising domestic violence awareness and supporting women in need. On top of this, members from the chapter also worked more than 1,800 service hours for the year.

In addition to getting to meet and work with some of the women at the Genesis Women’s Shelter, members of the Iota Sigma chapter were also able to volunteer at the shelter’s thrift shop, where the women and children from the shelter can shop for free.

“Our members love to be able to go actually in person,” Ashley says. “We support the shelter monetarily, but it was nice for them to be able to actually go in person and do tangible work.”

LAMBDA MU (TRINITY COLLEGE)

Hope Bettencourt, the outgoing VP chapter relations and standards for Lambda Mu chapter, attributes her love of service and community work to growing up in Martha’s Vineyard, a tight-knit community she says is very passionate about taking care of everyone. Hope was looking for the same experience at Trinity.

“Philanthropy was something that was heavily emphasized during recruitment. When I was talking to people, everyone in our chapter stressed the importance of [domestic violence awareness]. I knew immediately that was something that I wanted to be a part of,” Hope says.

The two main events that Lambda Mu hosts every year are Donut Let Love Hurt, an event where members sell donuts while tabling and talking about domestic violence, and Swirls for the Girls, another fundraiser where they sell ice cream. Proceeds from both of these events last year went to Interval House, a domestic violence shelter in Hartford, Connecticut.

“Donut Let Love Hurt is super fun because we do it every year during homecoming weekend,” Hope says. “We get all the parents and alums to come. It’s super fun to see the alums that want to give back to the community.”

Hope is also the president of Annual Community Event Staff (ACES), which offers service opportunities for the college. Throughout her term she coordinated service events for both Lambda Mu and Trinity, like a Thanksgiving food drive, blood drives, Sponsor a Snowman gift card drive and Halloween on Vernon.

“I have always loved community service. It’s something that I’ve been heavily involved with since I was in elementary school, and that was something that I knew going to Trinity that I wanted to be able to continue,” Hope says. “I would say that Halloween on Vernon is my favorite event of the year. It’s fun to see all of the kids go trick or treating. I like getting to put on an activity for the kids and get to engage with them.”

The small Lambda Mu chapter completed 168 service hours this past semester and raised $4,420 for various organizations including Interval House, RAINN and the One Love Foundation.

“Everyone in our chapter is someone who is passionate about service,” Hope says. “There’s always someone that’s willing to step up, and people always come to chapter with good ideas about more ways that we can get involved. Being able to do whatever we can to help is something that sticks with all of us when we do our service.”

Community service and philanthropy are core values of Alpha Chi Omega. Working in the community to increase domestic violence awareness is a passion that sisters share, whether that is through raising money or hands-on service. These chapters prove that when we come together, we can make a difference.

LAMBDA MU CHAPTER MEMBERS AT THEIR DONUT LET LOVE HURT PHILANTHROPY EVENT

INTRODUCING THE

Have you ever had trouble finding information on a health concern specific to women? Have you ever wanted to advocate for your wellness but weren’t sure how to talk to your doctor or take the first step? Do you know what to do to prepare yourself for a healthy life?

Introducing the Women’s Wellness Series, an exploration of health and wellness topics for sisters, by sisters. Within the Alpha Chi Omega network of more than 250,000 members are professionals who want to offer their expertise and support. They’re ready to help you break through the noise of a million Google search results for “What does this [insert symptom] mean?” and equip you with knowledge to take charge of your wellness – all while talking to you as a friend and sister.

The aim of this series is to provide you with the information you need to lead the life you want, to gain confidence in advocating for your health needs and to understand that you are not alone. In addition to learning from our experts, we’ve also built a community group in Women & Wisdom where we will share the articles (like the one on the next page from cardiologist and professor Dr. Ellen Thompson) and other resources from the Women’s Wellness Series and create a space for sisters to come together.

Are you an expert in the health and wellness field and want to share with sisters? Email mentoring@alphachiomega.org. We’d also love to hear from members about the topics they want to learn more about.

CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION ONLINE WITH ALPHA CHI OMEGA’S NETWORK OF REAL, STRONG WOMEN!

MAKE YOUR ACCOUNT OR LOG INTO WOMENANDWISDOM.ORG , AND THEN NAVIGATE TO GROUPS > WELLNESS SEEKERS.

JOIN THE GROUP SO YOU CAN EXPLORE RESOURCES AND CONNECT WITH SISTERS ABOUT HEALTH AND WELLNESS.

WE’RE EXCITED TO LEARN AND GROW TOGETHER!

READY TO GET STARTED? TURN THE PAGE TO LEARN ABOUT WOMEN’S HEART HEALTH!

Heart Smart Sisters: Understanding Cardiovascular Health

BY DR. ELLEN THOMPSON (GAMMA OMICRON, MARSHALL UNIVERSITY), CARDIOLOGIST AND PROFESSOR

Right now, in your workplace, your chapter house, or your gym, you probably know several women affected by heart disease. It might be your big sister who just had a baby, your favorite professor who manages high blood pressure or that amazing alumna who seems to do it all while dealing with a family history of heart problems.

DR. ELLEN THOMPSON

UNDERSTANDING YOUR RISK FACTORS: THE CLASSIC FIVE Sisters, think of risk factors like pieces of a puzzle – the more pieces you have, the clearer the picture becomes of your heart health. Let’s break down the five major risk factors that every woman should understand, track and discuss with her healthcare provider.

Hypertension

Those numbers you get at every doctor’s visit matter! Normal blood pressure is generally below 120/70 mmHg. High blood pressure puts stress on your heart and blood vessels, and it often has no symptoms, which is why it’s called the “silent killer.” The good news? It’s highly manageable through lifestyle changes like regular exercise and limiting salt intake, as well as medication when needed.

Here’s the reality, sisters: cardiovascular disease is the #1 killer of women in America. Many of us think of heart disease as something that happens to older men, but the truth is it affects women of all ages – and many of us don’t even know we’re at risk.

Although some form of heart disease affects 1 in 2 women in their lives, up to 80% of heart disease is preventable. That’s right – the choices we make today, even in college and early career years – can dramatically impact heart health for decades to come. The good habits we make now can literally add decades to our lives.

Knowledge is power, and when it comes to heart health, it could literally save your life or the life of a sister you love. So, let’s dive in and learn how to keep our hearts strong.

Cholesterol

There are different types of cholesterol, and you should know your numbers for each. LDL (the “bad” cholesterol) is the culprit clogging up arteries. The lower your LDL is, the better. Ask your doctor about your target, because it changes depending on how many other risk factors you have, but striving for less than 100 mg/dL will keep you on solid ground. HDL (the “good” cholesterol) helps keep things flowing smoothly, and the higher it is, the lower your cardiac risk. Your total cholesterol should ideally be below 200, but what’s really important is the balance between your HDL and LDL. Regular testing, especially after age 20, helps you stay on track. Diet and exercise will help cholesterol, though some cases will require medicines.

Diabetes

Diabetes and pre-diabetes aren’t just about sugar –they can double your risk of heart disease, and many young women have pre-diabetes without knowing it. Watch for things like excess weight around your middle, extreme thirst or family history. Regular screening is key, especially if diabetes runs in your family.

Smoking

Smoking affects everything from your blood pressure to how well oxygen moves through your body. And yes, vaping and e-cigarettes count too.

Family History

If you have a close relative who had early heart disease (before 55 for men, before 65 for women), your risk is higher.

Think of these factors as early warning signs –opportunities to act. Small changes in diet, exercise and lifestyle can make a big difference in managing these risks.

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO REDUCE RISK?

There are multiple lifestyle interventions that have been proven to reduce cardiovascular disease; these have been laid out well by the American Heart Association, in their “Life’s Essential 8” program, along with actionable items for each.

The “Essential 8” are:

• Healthy Eating

• Fitness

• Quit Nicotine

• Sleep

• Lose Weight

• Cholesterol

• Diabetes

• Blood Pressure

Now, let’s focus on two action items that can start making a difference today:

Know Your Numbers

• Blood Pressure: check at least yearly, more often if it’s elevated.

• Cholesterol: get tested every 4-6 years (more frequently if you have risk factors).

• Blood Sugar: ask your doctor if you need screening, especially if diabetes runs in your family.

Movement is Medicine

The good news? You don’t need to become a marathon runner to protect your heart.

• Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week (that’s just 30 minutes, 5 days a week).

• Find activities you actually enjoy – dancing counts! So does brisk walking between classes or running errands.

• Add some strength training twice a week.

• Break it up into smaller chunks if needed –three 10-minute walks count just as much as one 30-minute session.

WE’VE COVERED A FEW OF THE BASICS, BUT THERE’S SO MUCH MORE TO DISCUSS ABOUT WOMEN’S CARDIOVASCULAR CONCERNS. BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR MORE ABOUT WOMEN’S HEALTH AS PART OF THIS SERIES! NEXT UP, TALKING ABOUT HORMONES AS WE EXPLORE HOW THEY AFFECT WOMEN’S BODIES AND WHAT HAPPENS DURING DIFFERENT STAGES OF LIFE.

A Love Letter to Jodi’s Golden Girls

BY JODI MCDONALD WILSON (GAMMA DELTA, UNIVERSITY OF DENVER)

It’s hard to believe it’s over! After 12 years of gathering in the beautiful Colorado mountains for four days, our time together has come to an end.

After graduating from the University of Denver, a few Alpha Chi sisters and I remained in the Denver area. During lunch one day, one of my sisters mentioned that she was thinking about doing a hike in the mountains to raise money for multiple sclerosis (MS). I had been diagnosed with MS in 2001 and had shared this with them previously. It was at this lunch that we decided to recruit other sisters to participate in the July 2012 hike. As word spread, we ended up with 13 sisters from all over the US.

Hike MS is a National Multiple Sclerosis Society event and is accessible for novice and experienced hikers. It takes place at Keystone Resort in the Colorado mountains, and the hike routes are 2, 3, 6 or 9 miles. Money is raised for research providing the MS treatments we have today.

Over the next 11 years, our Alpha Chi sisters gathered for four days each July for the hike. Several of our hikers participated in the challenging longest route, but many chose the shorter routes. I cheered them on from the base. We needed a team name, and one sister suggested Jodi’s Golden Girls. We also had team accessories: red cowboy hats, red sunglasses, red and white polka dot socks, and red bandanas. Because of these, we became recognizable and befriended many hike participants. We met one couple from Wyoming our first year and

SOME OF JODI’S GOLDEN GIRLS AT A HIKE MS EVENT

have continued the friendship; Jonna has become an “honorary” Alpha Chi Omega sister. Our JGG team has raised more than $130,000 and has received the Most Spirited Award.

Our sisterhood went beyond the hike itself. A rental house would be booked and groceries purchased, and we would meet to enjoy gourmet meals together, prepared by our amazing sister chefs Hibbard, Howes, Cosby and Lex. We’d sing Alpha Chi Omega and old familiar songs with Gilbert, Candy, Carla and Katie. We’d dance with DJ Huggins. We’d share old composites and pictures, laughing at “Who is this?” with Raber, Hanes, OB, Paddock and Liz. We’d play cards and take short hikes locally. It was definitely the very best of times.

“Our Alpha Chi sisterhood has certainly been a treasured gift.”

JODI’S GOLDEN GIRLS: SANDRA GILBERT EVANS, SUSAN HIBBARD ALLESHOUSE, CAROL HANES HARRAWAY, LEXIE EVANOFF BUDDIG, AMY COSBY STEPANIK, JONNA PATTON, JODI MCDONALD WILSON, SANDIE HOWES LAKOTKO, MARY RABER MUSSON, PAM HUGGINS, CANDY TYRRELL LOESBY (NOT PICTURED: CARLA DIRE CAPSTICK AND LIZ HANFORD ALDRIDGE)

Jodi’s Golden Girls will be revered in Keystone for many hikes to come. Our red cowboy hats and polka dot socks made us legendary and will be missed on the trail. We won’t be wondering ever again, “What color are the shirts this year?” Surely some year scarlet and olive green will be popular. But seriously, JGG, I have so much affection for you all, especially our core team who were with us for 12 years. We were joined occasionally by other University of Denver sisters of the ’70s, and I salute them too. Mary Keathley and Christina Carro, our first-class hike coordinators from the National MS Society, deserve a shout-out too. They have bonded with our crazy team, and as my MS symptoms have worsened over the years, with the support of Keystone Village, they provided me with a wheelchair our last year.

July 2023 was our final year in Keystone. I live in Florida now, so instead of traveling out to Colorado, we’re planning to gather Jodi’s Golden Girls for the MS walk here as we continue to fundraise. Our Alpha Chi sisterhood has certainly been a treasured gift.

JGG, my admiration for your devotion and generosity to the cause knows no bounds. You all are truly the most unselfish group I know. It has been the joy of my life to know you. I will always be in your debt, and I look forward to sharing an MS walk with you in the future.

Scan the QR code or visit womenandwisdom.org to start building your network today!

How To Elevate Your Resume Today

BY TRICIA WIESE (DELTA NU, IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY)

Ihave been a recruiter and career coach for 25 years, and the number one thing I hear from candidates is that they need help with their resume. Resumes don’t have to feel difficult. I have helped thousands of job seekers land their “right” job, and there are several simple things you can do to elevate your resume today.

WORK HISTORY

This will be the longest section of your resume. List your experience in reverse chronological order, including company name, title, dates (month and years) and a bulleted list of four to six responsibilities or accomplishments from each.

EDUCATION, CERTIFICATIONS AND OTHER

Include degree, college/university, professional certifications and any organizations you were involved in, including Alpha Chi Omega.

TAILORING YOUR RESUME

Save your general resume as “Your Name-Resume-Date” and revisit it every 6-12 months to reflect your ongoing accomplishments. When you find a position to apply to, copy that file and save it as “YourName-ResumePosition-Company-Date.”

Recruiters and hiring managers may only look at your resume for less than 2 minutes before deciding whether to move forward with you or reject you. In that short period of time, they are looking for specific details.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Your contact information should be at the top and include your name, city and state, phone number, professional email and hyperlinked LinkedIn profile. A location on your resume is key; some companies must hire within a certain area or time zone – don’t let the bots opt you out by omitting a city or state.

OBJECTIVE OR SUMMARY

Highlight your skills and accomplishments in two to four sentences and state the position you are seeking. This is a quick way to personalize your resume to a job.

PRO TIP : A LINKEDIN PROFILE SHOULD INCLUDE ALL THE SAME THINGS AS YOUR RESUME (AND MORE!), PLUS A PROFESSIONAL PHOTO. LINKEDIN SHOULD ALSO BE USED TO MANAGE YOUR PERSONAL BRAND AND CONNECT WITH OPPORTUNITIES.

To elevate your resume, tailor it by looking for the job description’s key skills, competencies or requirements section. Weave those skills into your resume by showing how you have them.

Before applying, don’t forget to save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting!

PRO TIP: AFTER EACH BULLET POINT ON YOUR RESUME, ASK YOURSELF, “SO WHAT?” THIS WILL HELP YOU IDENTIFY THE IMPACT.

By implementing these tips, you can transform your resume into a powerful marketing tool that positions you as the ideal candidate. Remember, your resume is often your first impression — it should reflect not only your qualifications but also your attention to detail and understanding of the employer’s needs. With personalization, a clear structure and strategic keywords, you’ll stand out in even the most competitive job markets.

Ready for a resume review? Request one from an alumna in our Women & Wisdom network. Find more professional development tips and opportunities to connect at womenandwisdom.org.

TRICIA WIESE

Leading from the Heights

BY LAUREN FILIPPINI (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

They go by many titles – chief executive officer, executive director, president. But at the top of every company is one individual responsible for directing teams of employees to carry out the mission. It’s no surprise that Alpha Chi Omegas hold many of these roles at businesses, nonprofits and organizations worldwide. In this issue, we hear from two of them – one who created her own company and CEO role and another who has spent her career leading community-focused teams – as they share advice to help you seek the heights.

SUSAN GEORGE OMEGA

(WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY) FOUNDER AND CEO OF MEDIARY MARKETING

Susan George never thought she’d be CEO of her own company. Her dream was to be a musician, which she pursued in college as she wrote and performed her own music. Some of her first fans were her Alpha Chi Omega sisters, who would gather around the piano in the chapter house to listen to Susan play. After recording an album and performing around Seattle, she soon realized she needed to do some personal branding and social media marketing if she wanted to get her name out there.

At that point, Susan was on the forefront of social media, first blogging and later live streaming on TikTok. She formed an online community and found herself giving advice to other social media influencers,

encouraging them to ask for payment for their content, and later she started brokering brand deals. Finally, Susan founded Mediary Marketing.

Susan’s company handles creator management, brand deals, organic content, paid media, event strategy and more, focusing on women- and minority-owned brands. “It’s been interesting to develop that business side of myself that I didn’t necessarily know I had in me and combine it with what I love,” Susan explains. “It’s community and bringing people together.” Susan says she loves social media for its ability to be an equalizer, to provide new pathways for artists and business owners to succeed outside of traditional routes like record deals.

“The more I challenge myself, the more I am realizing what I’m capable of.”

SUSAN GEORGE

As she’s built her business, Susan has created her own rules – or more accurately, decided there are no rules! “The most freeing part is that I can make the agency feel and do whatever we want.” She explains that her definition of professionalism is “doing what you say you’re going to do and being very transparent with the client.” In managing her team of mostly women, Susan likes to ask what they are passionate about so she can tailor assignments to work that makes them happy – while also admitting that she’s still working on assigning the less-than-fun aspects of business!

Managing a company that focuses on social media means constantly adapting to changes and trends. But one thing holds true: “The most important thing that I’ve seen to be successful across platforms, regardless of the changes, is authenticity,” Susan says. When she and her team are working with clients to build organic content, she asks, “How can I help them say what they would say to a customer in the most authentic way, and then translate that to social media?”

Leading Mediary Marketing while continuing her music career and devoting herself to her family has taught Susan to, in her words, “fight for time to listen to myself.” This self-care work includes writing three pages of whatever is in her mind each morning, as well as reading books by entrepreneurs and taking time away from her phone. “It’s learning to put up boundaries so I can hear myself and what I want and where I want to go, because in all of the complexities that come along with being a woman and having a family and having dreams, no one else will have the answer that will feel right for me.”

from Alpha Chi Omega to appreciate the power of women coming together for a common goal and has seen that play out in her professional life, including the leap she took to found her company.

“It [being a CEO] is something that’s completely taken me by surprise. I never in a million years thought I would do this,” Susan says. “But the more I challenge myself, the more I am realizing what I’m capable of.”

LYNNE FUGATE DELTA PI (UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE, KNOXVILLE)

CEO OF GIRL SCOUTS OF SOUTHERN APPALACHIANS

“Take the call.” It’s the advice that Lynne Fugate gives any Alpha Chi Omega sister, and it’s the advice that has shaped her own career. As Lynne explains, she couldn’t have charted the course of her life, but staying open to possibilities has allowed her to take on incredible projects and make a difference. This includes spending 25 years as a banker; working as executive director of Nine Counties. One Vision., the Southeast’s largest citizen-driven strategic planning effort; and currently serving as a member of the Knoxville, Tennessee City Council.

For sisters who want to follow in Susan’s footsteps, she shares simple but powerful advice: “Be fearless.” She says she learned

Today, Lynne is the chief executive officer of Girls Scouts of Southern Appalachians (GSCSA), which serves 46 counties across three states. While the organization is in the business of empowering girls, Lynne explains that her role is running the organization as a business. “I’m not the person that impacts the lives of the girls,” she

SUSAN GEORGE

LYNNE FUGATE

explains. “I set the stage and provide the foundation for the people who do … using my education and background to make sure this council is financially solvent and using best practices to deliver the mission.”

Female empowerment is a thread that runs through all of Lynne’s life – including the Girl Scouts, Alpha Chi Omega, and her own upbringing and motivation. She explains, “I understand there are women who paved the way for me, and I want to be doing that for girls.” In fact, Lynne points out that The Symphony of Alpha Chi Omega and the Girl Scout Law share a lot in common, most notably the value of female friendship and creating a network.

“I understand there are women who paved the way for me, and I want to be doing that for girls.”

Lynne is a former chapter advisor and province chairman for Alpha Chi Omega, but she says that her leadership role in college made the most lasting impact. “Being rush chairman was the best training for any job I’ve ever had in my life,” she explains, highlighting the skills she developed in multitasking, communication, event planning and being able to find something in common with anyone.

In addition to dedicating herself to her family, community involvement is a hallmark of Lynne’s life, and she encourages sisters to get involved locally with what they are passionate about. “Life is richer if you are involved and engaged in the community,” she says. She encourages women to be multi-faceted, so that “if any one of the parts of your life ever hits a bump – and life will give you a bump – you’ve got other parts of your life that are positive to offset that, and other friends and community connections.”

One of those challenges we all experienced was the COVID-19 pandemic, and Lynne led her team at GSCSA through what she views as one of her proudest accomplishments as CEO. Not only did the council remain in a good financial state through the pandemic, it provided virtual programming almost immediately, highlighting to the girls the power of creativity with new badges and projects to be done in their own homes.

Spoken like a true leader, Lynne sums up her current work and her lifetime of achievements with one powerful idea: “When I step back and think about what my career is, it’s all helping people achieve what they want to achieve.”

LYNNE FUGATE WITH HER HUSBAND AND SONS

At the Top of Her Game

BY LAUREN FILIPPINI (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

LEARN ABOUT THE SPORT THAT’S SWEEPING THE NATION – PICKLEBALL – FROM TOP PLAYER AND ALPHA CHI OMEGA SISTER SYLVIA HERRERAS WHITEHOUSE.

Nine medals at the US Open Pickleball Championships.

Four medals at the USA Pickleball National Championships.

Two championship wins at the Huntsman World Senior Games.

Sylvia Herreras Whitehouse (Epsilon Kappa, California State University, Fullerton) is a pickleball powerhouse. She’s won the top titles in the senior (50+) age group in the nation’s most prestigious tournaments for amateur players and recently advanced to the pro level. She has a sponsorship with Selkirk Sport. A certified instructor, Sylvia shares her mastery of the sport as a teaching pro.

And a decade ago, she had never even picked up a pickleball paddle.

“Someone I played tennis with wanted to try pickleball, and I said, ‘Oh that sounds so weird,’” Sylvia says. “Finally, I just tried it and fell in love with it. And I’ve really accomplished a lot considering I never played a college sport.”

FROM NOVICE TO MEDALIST

Pickleball has been sweeping the nation the last few years, but for those who haven’t hit a “dink shot” or tried to avoid “the kitchen” to return a volley, here’s a quick primer.

Combining elements of tennis, badminton and ping pong, the sport is played on a court in either a singles or doubles format. One player serves the ball (similar

to a wiffle ball) across the court with their paddle, and a rally begins, with players attempting to return the ball over the center net so that their opponents miss or hit it out of bounds. More technically, the ball must bounce one time on each side after the serve, it cannot bounce twice throughout the rally, and it must bounce once if it’s within 7 feet of the net (in the non-volley zone or “the kitchen). Points are scored after every rally, regardless of the serving team, and most nontournament games are scored to 11, win by 2.

While the sport of pickleball began back in 1965, it saw a surge in popularity in 2020 as people looked for outdoor activities they could safely play during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sylvia had been playing for a few years by then, having made the switch from tennis after she realized she could likely play pickleball for longer.

“I thought that this is something I could do later in my years just because in tennis, the courts are a lot bigger and you have to move a lot more. In pickleball, the court is shorter and smaller, and if anything, you have to take three steps to the kitchen line,” she explains.

Sylvia says that as soon as she started playing, she “wanted to be the best” but found it challenging to build her skills because there were so few dedicated pickleball courts to play on. Putting hundreds of miles on her car traveling across Florida to play, she improved her skills while being part of the growth of the sport. “I just really focused because this is something I fell in love with,” she says.

As her skills progressed, Sylvia took her competitive spirit to the tournament circuit and started a winning streak for herself. She looks back laughing on her first tournament win: “The first tournament I played in, I was so disappointed because they gave you a pin instead of a medal. So to be honest, I went online and bought myself a gold medal because I was so excited,” she recalls.

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“But it’s an awesome feeling when you’re on that stand and know that all your hard work has paid off. And when you don’t win, it’s fun still to cheer and learn and take notes.”

Amateur pickleball players are rated on a scale of 1.0 to 5.5 to help place them for tournaments, and they are further divided into age categories. Over the years, Sylvia has medaled at more than a dozen of the most prestigious competitions; she says her greatest accomplishment has been winning gold in three major

tournaments – the World Senior Games, the US Open and the National Championship – over a seven-month span at the 5.0 amateur level for ages 50+ in doubles (mixed and women’s).

“The game is evolving. It’s constantly changing. Every time I come back from a tournament, I am thinking about what I’ve got to do [to improve],” she says, pointing to things like trying out new grips on the paddle to add topspin and practicing harder shots instead of her go-to strategy of perfect placement.

LOVE OF THE GAME

Pickleball is known as a sport for everyone, which is one of the things Sylvia loves most about it. “What’s great about it is it’s multigenerational,” she explains. “You know, I can play with my son, and my son hates it because I’m better than he is! It’s grandparents able to play with their kids and their grandkids.”

Sylvia is excited about the younger generation picking up the sport and making changes. She explains that while some older folks come to pickleball from tennis and think the strategy is to hit the ball as hard as they can, younger people are bringing a more nuanced approach, one that Sylvia likens to a chess game with strategic placement of players and hits.

She has taken her love of the game to a job as a teaching pro at Pictona in Holly Hill, Florida (where the photos in this story were taken), and has her certificate for instruction from the International Pickleball Teaching Professional Association. When she’s training players, especially those new to pickleball, she often identifies the skills they have from other sports or even playing musical instruments to apply them to pickleball.

“I love to be able to teach what I love and to help people get better,” Sylvia says. “I know how it’s helped me to feel better about myself, to meet new people.”

Even at her advanced skill level, Sylvia tries to get in some games just for fun – though she says that can be a challenge! “It’s hard for me to play [recreationally] because I’ve played tournaments so much and I always want to go out there and win, so it’s hard for me to turn off that button,” she says. “And then what happens when I play? They don’t hit to me!”

WHAT’S NEXT –FOR SYLVIA AND THE SPORT

Sylvia plans to retire from competition soon, citing 10 years of the mental and physical toll that she’s experienced playing at the highest levels, as well as the cost and travel of competitions. “Now I feel I can rest on my laurels. I’ve worked really hard,” she says. She also plans to continue teaching.

Sylvia is excited to see the growth the sport and hopes the momentum continues while still keeping its roots in fun, friends and fitness. “Right now, it’s becoming too commercialized. It used to be like a local store, a small mom-and-pop shop, and it’s becoming like a Costco. … I hope it doesn’t lose that,” she says.

For anyone interested in trying pickleball for the first time, Sylvia has some advice on the next page to get started. She also points out that, with the boom of the sport, many towns have free or low-cost courts to try it out. And if there isn’t a court near you, make it happen! She says, “If their town doesn’t have courts, they need to lobby for courts – dedicated courts or painting lines on the tennis courts.” Sylvia says it was a grassroots effort by many passionate pickleball players to get as many courts as the country has today.

Whether she’s competing, playing for fun or teaching, Sylvia is in it for the love of the game. One of her favorite moments, in the early morning hours before tournaments, is hearing the distinctive sound of the pickleball hitting the paddle. “It’s music to my ears,” she says. “I hear that sound, and it makes me excited. It’s joyous.”

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Ready to Play Pickleball?

SYLVIA SHARES HER TOP TIPS FOR GETTING STARTED IN THE SPORT.

TIP 1: Learn the rules, particularly how to keep score. “That’s usually the hardest aspect of learning how to play, and I [as a coach] don’t want to waste your money on how to keep score.” Check out online resources from organizations like USA Pickleball or go on YouTube. “It’s easier to understand when you see it visually.”

TIP 2: Train up.

Injuries happen when you go from couch to court with nothing in between. Sylvia recommends working on stamina and muscle strength, and suggests brisk walks and stretching as preventative measures. “Don’t walk out on the court cold without a warm-up regimen.”

TIP 3: Take an introductory class or join a beginner league. Your community rec center or local pickleball facility can help you gain fundamentals and confidence. Get a feel for the game and play with other players at your level.

TIP 4: Learn to block.

“It’s pretty much the first thing I teach women. It is not a nice gentleman’s sport. It’s basically guerrilla warfare out there now, which is intimidating to new players. Pickleball of old used to be a chess game, where you are strategic and move players around; now, it’s a checkers game, just whacking the ball back and forth.”

LOOKING FOR A COURT?

USA Pickleball and the Global Pickleball Federation have partnered with Pickleheads on a tool to help players locate nearby courts. Type in your location to find options near you, with information about the types of courts (indoor vs. outdoor, dedicated pickleball court vs. lines overlaid on a tennis court) and fees.

Visit pickleheads.com to start searching online or download the mobile app!

TIP 5: Learn strategy, not just how to slam the ball. “As women, we’re up against guys who have longer arms and are more powerful. So we have to be a little bit more crafty.”

TIP 6: Place your shots.

“The whole idea is you have to keep the ball low and slow, meaning a low bounce and soft pace. This buys you and your partner time. Think about baseball –you’ve got to keep the ball away from the strike zone where they have a chance to hit a zinger right at you.

In pickleball, keep the ball below your opponent’s knee or lob above their paddle.”

TIP 7: Practice the fundamentals.

“Mastering the fundamentals and correct court positioning will enable you to play with anyone.”

TIP 8: Play people at your level or better. That’s how you learn and grow!

TIP 8: “Remember, pickleball is fun, social and fitness!”

FROM THE

Player’s Perspective:

“I wanted to be the best. ... I just really focused because this is something I fell in love with.”

Rooted in Resiliency

BY EMMA WILLE, MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

Corinne LePage (Zeta Theta, Brown University) arrived at Brown University like any average college student does, nervous about navigating the transition in life. However, she is not your average college student. Taking on multiple volunteer roles, leading her chapter as vice president philanthropy and starting new projects on campus, it’s safe to say she isn’t shy of taking on responsibilities. Corinne, who is a first-generation, non-traditional student, has made an impact in the community that will last a lifetime.

Currently studying environmental science and critical Native American and Indigenous studies, Corinne never thought she would attend college. “I was at a point in my life where I was like, ‘I need to do something.’ And I never thought I would ever go to college. I was in a

really, really bad situation, and I finally took a chance on myself and went to community college,” she says.

Shortly after taking that leap of faith, she made the transition to Brown University in 2022. Entering their undergraduate program in her late 20s, she knew her experience would be unique, and she wanted to make the most of it. Corinne says, “I remember attending an activities fair, where you could meet all the organizations. And I remember seeing these big letters and thinking, ‘What is this?’ I never ever thought I would join a sorority.” But Alpha Chi Omega changed her mind.

Corinne is passionate about domestic violence awareness and supporting victims of abuse. One way she found to channel her passion when she arrived at Brown was volunteering at Sojourner House, a Providence agency that supports survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Volunteering at Sojourner House has meant more to Corinne than just following her passion and doing good in the community.

“For me, this is a very integral part of my life because I lived through that [domestic violence], unfortunately,” she explains. “I remember being in a position where I had absolutely nothing, all my stuff was gone, and an organization like this helped me get back on my feet.”

At the activities fair, she immediately noticed that the Zeta Theta chapter frequently worked with the Sojourner House to support Alpha Chi Omega’s national philanthropic mission of domestic violence awareness. After a few conversations, Corinne’s view of joining a sorority started to shift. “I filled out the formal recruitment interest paper the day it was due,” she says. “I really didn’t have any interest in any of the other sororities, only Alpha Chi. And going through the rounds I just thought, ‘They’re so down to earth.’ I felt really welcomed, and I didn’t expect to be because I’m older.”

Corinne accepted a bid to the chapter and continued her domestic violence awareness work with her new sisters. And her commitment to the cause extends even further! In 2023, after assisting with a few programs that Sojourner House had already, Corinne had an idea

CORINNE LEPAGE

“The beauty of these workshops is … that they transcend language.”

to start her own program, something the organization had never seen before. “I thought these services were great, but I couldn’t see myself doing them if I was there getting services,” she explains.

Corinne’s idea would blend her passion for environmental science and her advocacy. With funding from the Royce Fellowship, a program through Brown University that allows students to create a project that benefits the community, Corinne began to lay plans for a program at Sojourner House rooted in the power of plants that would help domestic violence survivors in their recovery process.

While she was able to secure the fellowship, she soon realized she may need a little more help from the community. “I decided to go speak to Dr. Rebecca Cardinal, who runs the greenhouse at Brown University,” she explains. “At this point I had never met her, and I made an appointment with her. In the first 5 minutes I met her, I just spilled my guts on this huge project idea. And she agreed within those first 5 minutes. I will never forget, she said, ‘This is awesome. I will help you.’”

With the support of Dr. Cardinal, licensed social workers, volunteer coordinators and other community members, Corinne finally kicked off her project with a series of 10 horticultural therapy workshops. While all were built around underlying themes of trauma

care and mental wellness, each class was different. For example, one featured succulent planting, with themes of resiliency since that plant can adapt to withstand extreme conditions.

As the workshops progressed, Corinne learned the true impact a project like this could have. “At first it was a little slow, and then we got a regular group. It was unique because we had a Spanish speaking women’s group, and we had a translator since I do not speak Spanish. But after a while it didn’t even matter,” she says. “The beauty of these workshops is … that they transcend language. Anyone can be doing these workshops, and it’s just like a beautiful thing.”

The workshops became so popular that she eventually had to turn people away. After the original 10 workshops, Corinne began talking to the volunteer coordinator at Sojourner House about making this a full-time program.

Along with running these workshops, Corinne also oversaw the creation of a pollinator garden at the nonprofit drop-in center, where people are able to visit and enjoy the calming effects of nature. With this garden comes the work to maintain it, and Corinne was able to tap into sisterhood for help, with the Zeta Theta chapter officially partnering to help keep the garden going, even after Corinne graduates. This garden gives sisters the opportunity to do hands-on volunteering to benefit domestic violence awareness. “Volunteering is also important to the [chapter members], and getting out there and being able to volunteer in person makes you feel like you’re doing something impactful,” Corinne says.

The results of Corinne’s work don’t just make a difference in the community; they have also made an impact on her. “I’m so happy I did this because not only am I supporting others that have experienced similar things to myself, but I’m also learning new things,” she says. Looking ahead to the future, she hopes to one day create a nonprofit and travel across the country to host workshops to support domestic violence survivors. Through her empathy and dedication, Corinne will continue to make a difference, one plant and one survivor at a time.

Strengthening Our Sisterhood

BY LAURA KNOBEL (IOTA ALPHA, ALUMNAE INITIATES), ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF LIFETIME ENGAGEMENT

As a sales operations advisor for a tech company in Chicago and a self-described “empty nester,”

Lauren Woodruff (Iota Alpha, Alumnae Initiates) had already found a few things to fill her spare time, including pursuing her MBA and attending concerts and Chicago Cubs games with her husband, Henri. But still, something was missing.

“Much of my time when my son was in school was spent volunteering with Boy Scouts and sports activities. … It was non-stop. After my son graduated, I remember looking at my husband and asking, ‘What do I do with all of this extra time?’”

Lauren shares. “I explored joining some local groups, but for various reasons, nothing really worked out. I was eager to find a community where I could develop a meaningful connection with others and also give back, making a difference.”

One day over lunch, a coworker said the five magic words that Lauren needed to hear: You should join a sorority!

“At first, I chuckled because I only associated sorority involvement with college, and let’s be honest, my undergrad college days were well behind me!” Lauren recalls. “Joining a sorority was something I had always wanted to do during my collegiate years, but my family

commitments outside of class were a priority over joining most extracurricular activities on campus.”

Fortunately, Lauren didn’t let the suggestion pass her by. She began to research joining a sorority after college and soon learned that many organizations offer a path to alumna initiation, including Alpha Chi Omega.

The National Alumna Initiate Program (NAIP) extends our membership experience to real, strong women in our communities who identify with our mission and values, care about our philanthropic initiatives and are not already members of another national sorority. Since formal record-keeping began in the 1980s, we have welcomed more than 960 women to our sisterhood through alumna initiation.

Although she didn’t personally know any Alpha Chis, Lauren felt called to apply for membership. “As someone who loves music and has previously performed, Alpha Chi’s musical roots really resonated with me, along with the commitment to raising awareness and prevention of domestic violence, [as I have] a close friend who has been affected by it,” she shares. “I just knew Alpha Chi was my top choice!”

When a candidate applies for membership without knowing an existing member, NAIP panel members may connect her with alumnae in her community who are willing to meet her and consider sponsoring her for membership. Each of Alpha Chi Omega’s 170+ alumnae chapters across the country have the awesome responsibility of extending the Real. Strong. Women. Experience to sisters in their community; when a chapter partners with NAIP, that experience can include welcoming brand-new sisters into the bond.

“Our chapter, Iota Lambda Iota (Lake County, Illinois), had never sponsored an alumna initiate, but some

LAUREN WOODRUFF

sisters were familiar with NAIP through convention and reading about it in The Lyre,” says Jan Curschman (Beta Phi, Bowling Green State University), alumnae chapter president.

“Some of us had in the past had casual conversations about encouraging daughters and friends to go through the alumna membership process,” Jan says, but the chapter hadn’t yet formally sponsored any candidates. So, the chapter members were intrigued and excited when NAIP panel members reached out inviting sisters to meet Lauren, and Jan arranged for Lauren to attend an upcoming gathering.

The connection felt meant to be. “From the very first conversations with Lauren, we knew she was a wonderful candidate and would also be enriched by Alpha Chi Omega sisterhood,” Jan shares. “It was just such a good fit; she genuinely embraced the notion of being in our beloved sorority, aligning with our philanthropy, values and mission.”

The feeling was mutual for Lauren. “Jan Curschman reached out to me, and honestly, it felt like we were old friends right from the start!” she says. “Jan invited me to the Founders’ Day dinner for Iota Lambda Iota. I was a bit nervous on the way there, but as soon as I stepped into the room, I felt like I was in a room of friends. Everyone was so incredibly welcoming!”

“Words cannot express how strengthened our sisterhood was by coming together to embrace Lauren as a new member.”

Jan recalls that Founders’ Day event fondly: “I’m glad [Lauren] was on my [trivia] team when it came time to knowing our history. She took the initiative to learn as much as she could about Alpha Chi Omega … and in turn, refreshed the seasoned sisters’ memories graciously.”

After a successful first meeting and receiving a group

LAUREN (CENTER) WITH MEMBERS OF IOTA LAMBDA IOTA ALUMNAE CHAPTER AFTER HER INITIATION

sponsorship from Iota Lambda Iota, Lauren was approved to continue in the membership process and took part in the Dedication, an online educational experience that prepares all new members for initiation alongside reflection and review meetings with a member of the NAIP panel. Then, it was time for the Initiation Ceremony.

Iota Lambda Iota was provided with the supplies needed to host the ceremony by headquarters and was coached through the experience by NAIP volunteers. “There’s always a learning curve when trying new experiences, but our NAIP panelist Mary Kay Gillam (Epsilon Iota, University of Northern Iowa) was awesome in answering questions and guiding us through the process, even clarification the night before,” Jan says.

In addition to welcoming a new sister and alumnae chapter member, the opportunity to reconnect with our Ritual by hosting the Initiation Ceremony is a meaningful reason why many alumnae chapters choose to sponsor NAIP candidates.

“It’s been years since most of the women have been through initiation and/or Hall of Commitment, and we found it wonderful to hold a ceremony for Lauren,” shares Jan. “[In attendance] we had a 60-year member, a province collegiate chair, a headquarters staff member, the greatgranddaughter of Olive [Burnett Clark] wearing Olive’s everyday badge, a woman who wrote the music to ‘Song of My Sister’ and another sister who sings with Chicago Master Singers, and all had special roles in her ceremony.”

Jan adds, “Words cannot express how strengthened our sisterhood was by coming together to embrace Lauren as a new member.”

“YOU SHOULD JOIN A SORORITY!” WHO WILL HEAR THESE MAGIC WORDS NEXT? WHETHER YOU HAVE ONE OR MANY WOMEN TO INVITE TO THE ALPHA CHI OMEGA SISTERHOOD, SCAN THE QR CODE TO SPONSOR CANDIDATES FOR ALUMNA INITIATION THROUGH NAIP!

The effort undertaken by chapter members to make the day special did not go unnoticed by Lauren. She says, “I had such an incredible initiation experience! I’m truly thankful for my new sisters who went out of their way to make the day so memorable.”

As Lauren continues to get to know her new sisterhood post-initiation, she discovers new and unexpected connections that show Alpha Chi Omega was calling out to her all along.

“For 20 years I looked at a hanging in my dermatologist’s office, wondering what this strange harp thing was on the wall. Turns out she’s also an Alpha Chi, and for 20 years I was looking at the lyre!” Lauren shares. “I also work at the same company as Jan’s daughter. What are the odds? I think Alpha Chi was always meant for me, but at the right time.”

Jan agrees. “Lauren is already a role model for what it is to be a real, strong woman, and we’re proud to call her our sister.”

As for what’s next? Both Lauren and Iota Lambda Iota are looking toward more partnerships with NAIP in the future.

“In addition to connecting with my new sisters and making a difference for others, I hope I can in some way (big or small) help promote the alumna initiate program to other women,” says Lauren.

“Now that 13 [Iota Lambda Iota] members have participated in the Ritual, sisters have come to appreciate our new sister Lauren and her fresh perspective of what it means to be an Alpha Chi Omega,” shares Jan, adding, “We’re already talking about who might be our next alumna initiate.”

LAUREN AND JAN

Into the Heart of the Storm

BY LAUREN FILIPPINI (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

Billowing clouds. Darkening skies. The hint of a funnel. Seeing these signs, most people would run for cover. But Jennifer Mitchell (Gamma Chi, Stetson University) is racing toward the storm.

While she was always interested in the sky, Jennifer

didn’t start chasing storms until the COVID-19 pandemic. “I found myself driving on rural roads, just for lack of anything else to do, and I started to see cloud formations.” She sent some casual photos of storms to a friend who is a storm chaser, and he encouraged her to pursue it. With his guidance and Jennifer’s additional research, she began a journey into chasing hurricanes and tornados that has taken her across the U.S.

JENNIFER MITCHELL

When Jennifer travels out to Tornado Alley, she’ll spend days on the road looking for supercells that have the potential to form a tornado. Each morning, she checks forecast models, drives, waits and checks again. “I always say it’s a lot of storm waiting instead of storm chasing,” she says.

“You’re checking radar, you’re checking satellite images and you’re basically trying to make your best bet as to where the storms are … [and then] you’re literally following the clouds.” When the storm gets closer, Jennifer preps not only her camera but her safety plan, including identifying an exit route. To increase safety, she teams up with a chase partner.

Closer to her home in Florida, Jennifer says the approach to chasing hurricanes is different, as those storms are forecasted for a general area weeks in advance and she can pinpoint the exact landfall location later. For hurricane chases, she also needs to bring more supplies like food, water and gas, as those will be limited in the areas affected by the storm.

One of Jennifer’s most memorable storms was Hurricane Milton in 2024, as it made landfall in Florida near to her heart. “The high point (where storm chasers safely watch from to avoid the storm surge) was actually the garage of the hospital where I was born. It’s an interesting point of view standing on top and watching your city basically get destroyed by this hurricane.”

Jennifer and her peers provide storm information to the National Weather Service and host live streams on social media and with news stations to give an on-theground look at how a storm is progressing – important to those who have evacuated, are hunkering down or are checking in on loved ones from afar. “I hear from a lot of people that really do appreciate ‘coming along’ with me with the storms as I live stream,” she says.

Storm chasers are still mostly men – but Jennifer and other female chasers are working to change that! The group Girls Who Chase is inspiring girls and women to pursue science, weather and storm chasing by creating community, offering educational resources and training, and promoting storm photography. Jennifer has connected with friends and chase partners there, and she suggests that group, as well as Tornado Titans, as places to start learning about storm chasing.

Jennifer wants people to know that that storm chasing can be for everyone! There are some chasers who are in it for the adrenaline rush, others working on

scientific data and still others inspired by the stunning photography, like the photos here that Jennifer took. She adds, “The art and the science go hand in hand.”

You can follow Jennifer’s chases and see more of her photos on Instagram @Sunchaser941.

THEN AND NOW

Strategic Planning

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.

Alpha Chi Omega has survived and thrived for nearly 140 years thanks, in large part, to a commitment to concerted planning for the future. While the process and tools for what we now know as strategic planning may have changed over time, the importance and impact has not. Read on to learn more about what planning for Alpha Chi Omega’s future has looked like in the past and where it finds us today as we face the future.

BY SALLY CUTLER (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY)

While the mid-1980s was not necessarily the first time that Alpha Chi Omega’s leaders made formal strategic plans, it seemed an opportune time to be futurefocused. In January 1986, just after the Fraternity had celebrated its centennial, the National Council created and announced its “intentions,” described as measurable touchstones for Alpha Chi Omega in a second century of sisterhood.

Under the main intention “To strengthen and produce strong collegiate chapters,” these touchstones covered topics both practical and aspirational. Many would prove to be relevant for years to come; others were more reflective of that particular time and place. A few points of interest include:

• Administration – Maintain a balance between volunteer officer and staff involvement.

• Alumnae – Have each alumnae group provide collegiate chapter support.

• Financial – Protect the portfolio.

• Housing – Furnish whatever assistance is possible to provide quality housing.

• Membership Selection – Create quality rush parties by using professional skits and ceremonies.

• Ritual – Improve the performance and appreciation of Ritual among members.

2025

In the 21st century, strategic planning has evolved and become an integral part of the work of the Alpha Chi Omega Enterprise boards, including the National Council, Foundation Board of Trustees and National Housing Corporation Board of Directors. In the early 2000s, strategic plans outlined specific to-do lists for the organization that were prescribed for a set fiveyear period.

Alpha Chi Omega has transitioned from a “traditional” strategic plan, spanning a set number of years, to a different approach. In March 2020, the Enterprise adopted the Beyond 2020: Strategic Framework and set an overarching focus: grow and sustain the Alpha Chi Omega Enterprise. This approach provides four areas of focus – Discover, Grow, Engage and Sustain – to center Alpha Chi Omega’s efforts while providing flexibility in establishing evolving priorities.

Each fiscal year, Alpha Chi Omega’s board members and staff work together to develop entity-specific strategic priorities as well as metrics to measure accomplishments. At the mid-way point and end of each fiscal year, staff reports to the Enterprise boards, collectively, the progress and accomplishments associated with each priority. Thanks to advancements in technology, updates can now be shared with members in a timely manner through the Alpha Chi Omega website’s Resource Center > General Resources > Member Resources.

ENGAGE

The current approach allows for more responsiveness to the evolving reality of the rapidly changing environment in which Alpha Chi Omega – its chapters and its members – exist. Strategic planning has become a way of thinking rather than a way to work through a list of tasks, and with volunteers, staff and members all working together, Alpha Chi Omega will continue seeking the heights into the future!

Carolyn Spaeter

Alpha Chi Omega volunteers serve in many different capacities but have one thing in common: they make a positive impact on our sisters. We are honored to spotlight Carolyn Spaeter (Beta Phi, Bowling Green State University) who serves as Gamma Psi Gamma’s (Sacramento, California) chapter president.

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED FROM YOUR EXPERIENCE SERVING AS AN ALUMNAE CHAPTER PRESIDENT?

I have learned how important it is as an Alpha Chi to volunteer and how we can make a difference at the national, collegiate and alumnae level. I have a better understanding of the role and impact the national organization has and the importance of these leaders, who are mostly volunteers. Without these women, our sorority would not continue to thrive.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO AN ALUMNA WHO IS READY TO VOLUNTEER FOR THE FIRST TIME?

There are numerous volunteer opportunities at both the local and national level where an alumna can make a difference. The levels of commitment vary, and there is a role that will fit

your niche. Start small and get a better understanding of the opportunities available. I started by creating the e-vites for our events and hosting an event at my home.

WHY SHOULD ALUMNAE BECOME VOLUNTEERS FOR ALPHA CHI

OMEGA?

Our sorority’s foundation is built on volunteers, and without these women, Alpha Chi would not continue. Our sorority is dedicated to helping women reach their potential through sisterhood, service and leadership development. This could not be accomplished without our 3,000+ volunteers.

WHAT

“There are numerous volunteer opportunities at both the local and national level where an alumna can make a difference.”

DOES ALPHA CHI OMEGA MEAN TO YOU AND WHY DO YOU CHOOSE TO REMAIN INVOLVED?

Alpha Chi enhanced my college experience, and as an alumna, the sorority continues to provide me with women “who stand by your side, cheer you on and lead you to a lifetime of growth and connection” (from the Alpha Chi Omega website). I moved to Sacramento knowing very few people, and joining Gamma Psi Gamma gave me a network of sisters who helped me adjust to my new hometown. Without these women, my life would not be as enriched as it is today.

Were you inspired to begin volunteering after learning about Carolyn’s experience? Log in to my.alphachiomega. org and select “Profile” and then the “Volunteer Interest” tab. Complete your Volunteer Interest Form today to get started!

CAROLYN WITH HER GRANDDAUGHTER

NPC Mission, Vision and Values

BY KELLY BECK , 2023-25 NPC CHAIR

In 2023, the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) board announced that we were revisiting our guiding statements to ensure they are relevant in today’s world. I’m proud to share the updated mission that drives us forward, a renewed vision that inspires us and core values that will continue to guide every decision we make. These aren’t just words on paper; they are the foundation of the future we are building together.

Our mission speaks to the heart of who we are and what we stand for. At NPC, we believe in the power of community, leadership and lifelong sisterhood. Our mission is simple yet profound: To champion the collective interests of our member organizations and preserve the women’s-only sorority experience.

This mission reflects our unwavering commitment to supporting each of our member organizations, advocating for their unique needs and safeguarding the traditions that bind us together. In a constantly evolving world, the sorority experience continues to empower women, foster lifelong bonds and positively impact campuses and beyond. We champion our collective interests to ensure our members’ voices are heard. By preserving the women’s-only sorority experience, we honor a legacy that has shaped generations of women into strong leaders and active contributors to society.

Our vision represents the future we are striving to create together: To foster thriving sorority communities.

We aspire to build environments where sorority life survives and truly thrives. These are communities where women feel empowered, supported and inspired to lead purposefully and where personal growth, lifelong friendships and meaningful connections flourish. We aim to create inclusive, resilient spaces equipped to face the challenges of tomorrow. This vision is not just about sustaining our traditions; it’s about ensuring that the sorority experience continues to evolve and impact future generations.

Our actions and decisions must be guided by a shared set of values. These values define how we engage with one another, our member organizations and the broader community.

Belonging: We create opportunities to build supportive communities and positive relationships among our members. Belonging means ensuring that every voice is heard and valued so we can continue fostering a sense of connection and sisterhood that defines the sorority experience.

Collaboration: We convene stakeholders and work together to achieve common goals. Collaboration is about uniting our efforts, seeking diverse perspectives and sharing ideas openly. We are committed to deeper, more meaningful collaboration with our members and stakeholders.

Respect: We conduct our work with integrity, cultivate trust through open communication and acknowledge our stakeholders’ varied perspectives. Respect goes beyond polite interaction—it requires that we truly listen to and value one another, even when we disagree.

Relevance: We adapt to trends influencing our industry to ensure our efforts positively impact the growth and sustainability of women’s-only sororities. We are forwardthinking and proactive, ensuring that our mission continues to meet the needs of today’s world while preserving the traditions we hold dear.

Together, let’s bring this vision to life, guided by our shared values and united by a mission that empowers us all to make a lasting impact.

KELLY BECK

Welcome to the Board of Trustees, Stephanie M King!

The Alpha Chi Omega Foundation Board of Trustees is pleased to announce that Stephanie M King (Theta Tau, Rutgers University) has joined the board as a trustee. Stephanie is a senior legislative analyst at the US Small Business Administration. She is a 2024 recipient of Alpha Chi Omega’s Real. Strong. Women. of Distinction Award, and she loves to travel, particularly enjoying river cruises in Europe and spending time in Paris.

Stephanie was elected to fill the remainder of the 2023-26 term of Mary Carter Martin (Alpha Nu, University of Missouri), who has stepped down from the board. The Foundation is grateful for Mary Carter’s service.

egian, I had the privilege to grow personally and professionally Omega. The ample support I received from my sisters and adv As a senior, I knew I wanted to be that person for college wom but also a cheerleader for our officers."

have developed during my time as a consultant is confidence, n ber for the Fraternity but also as a young woman who travels f ent when supporting officers and volunteers, asking for help an mishap!"

t so lucky to explore new and exciting places while I am on the New York City, the foliage in Vermont and all the historical m

INSPIRED BY MARISSA’S EXPERIENCES? WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CHAPTER CONSULTANT ROLE?

STEPHANIE M KING

CONGRATULATIONS, fall 2024 graduates!

WE CAN’T WAIT TO SEE THE INCREDIBLE THINGS YOU DO AS YOU CONTINUE YOUR LIFELONG ALPHA CHI OMEGA EXPERIENCE.

Visit the Young Alumnae page of alphachiomega.org to learn about all the opportunities that await you!

COLLEGIATE NOTES

1 ALPHA PHI (THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN)

Nothing better than spending your gamedays with sisters!

2

Dressed in red, black and white, sisters got ready to cheer on the Dawgs!

3 EPSILON PHI (GEORGIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY)

Enjoying the sweater weather, sisters piled up to take a fun photo in the fall leaves.

4

Late nights and the northern lights are even more magical with sisters.

BETA SIGMA (UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA)

DELTA CHI (WILLIAM WOODS UNIVERSITY)

5 ZETA SIGMA (MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY)

After initiation, members snapped photos with carnations to celebrate!

6 XI (UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA – LINCOLN)

Sisters got dressed up for a chapter photoshoot.

7 DELTA RHO (UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS)

One big happy family, this group of sisters celebrated big/little reveal.

8 KAPPA XI (UNIVERSITY OF WEST FLORIDA)

Members of Kappa Xi chapter could not have been more excited at big/little reveal!

9 EPSILON ETA (STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE UNIVERSITY)

Sisters showed off what love means to them in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

10 EPSILON NU (BOISE STATE UNIVERSITY)

Jen Paquette and Mikayla Vistaunet took their graduation photos on the iconic Boise State blue turf. Even better, their photographer was sister and philanthropy advisor Marla Silverman (Epsilon Kappa, California State University, Fullerton) through her business Marla Silverman Photography.

11 THETA OMICRON (MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY)

Members hosted a bake sale during Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

12 BETA ETA (FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY)

In memory of their late sister Ellie Sims, an avid runner, Beta Eta chapter partnered with the local Alpha Phi Alpha chapter to host a 5K. Said VP Philanthropy Claire Sciandra, “Working alongside the Alphas to raise funds for March of Dimes and promote awareness for pedestrian safety in Ellie’s honor was a deeply fulfilling experience.”

15 EPSILON KAPPA (CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, FULLERTON)

Members posed for a festive photo before their winter formal.

14

The warmth of new sisterhood kept these women cozy

Members bundled up to play in the snow during the holiday season.

16 ALPHA UPSILON (THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA)

Ribbons, pearls and pink pajamas made for the perfect holiday gathering.

EPSILON ZETA (AUBURN UNIVERSITY)

THETA (UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN)

ALUMNAE NOTES

1 GAMMA THETA GAMMA (LOS ANGELES, CA)

Members of the alumnae chapter celebrated Founders’ Day with tacos and sisterhood.

2 IOTA UPSILON IOTA (WILLIAMSBURG, VA)

To recognize Founders’ Day, chapter members explored a local exhibit of movie and television costumes designed by two-time Academy Award winner Ruth E. Carter.

3 ALPHA IOTA ALPHA (COLUMBUS, OH) AND ALPHA OMICRON (THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY)

Alumnae and collegiate sisters in Columbus came together to celebrate Alpha Chi Omega for Founders’ Day.

4 SIGMA PSI SIGMA (OMEGA ALUMNAE)

Dressed in their Washington State University red and white, alumnae chapter members enjoyed a watch party of the Apple Cup to cheer on their alma mater.

5 KAPPA SIGMA KAPPA (LITTLE ROCK, AR)

The alumnae chapter purchased hand-held lyres for the Delta Rho (University of Arkansas) collegiate chapter to use for recruitment, Bid Day, pep rallies and more!

6 GAMMA ETA GAMMA (EUGENE, OR)

Members shared a “Sisters-Giving” dinner and collected six boxes of toiletries and clothing for Hope and Safety Alliance.

7 ALPHA LAMBDA ALPHA (CINCINNATI, OH)

To celebrate the season of thankfulness, chapter members gathered in November for a philanthropic event where they collected four laundry baskets full of personal care and household items to donate to Women Helping Women and the YWCA of Greater Cincinnati.

8 BETA OMEGA BETA (PHOENIX, AZ)

Members celebrated the holidays with their annual ornament exchange. Sisters brought an ornament with Alpha Chi Omega letters, carnations or lyres to trade.

9 MU MU (KANSAS CITY, MO)

Twenty sisters from seven chapters of initiation gathered for a holiday cookie exchange and donation collection for the Rose Brooks Center holiday store.

10 RHO RHO (OKLAHOMA CITY, OK)

Members hosted a Merry Milestones event honoring their chapter’s 50-year pin recipients.

11 ALPHA GAMMA ALPHA (ATLANTA, GA)

At the chapter’s annual Christmas party, sisters collected gift cards, hygiene items, and sheet and towel sets for the Wellspring Living Women’s Residential Home.

12 SIGMA SIGMA (ST. LOUIS, MO)

With 74 sisters and guests present, the chapter’s Ugly Sweater Holiday Party was a huge success. Attendees brought exam treats for the four collegiate chapters they support, enjoyed dinner and raffled off incredible prizes!

13 EPSILON ETA EPSILON (NORTHERN VA)

The chapter recognized two Zeta Xi (University of North Carolina at Greensboro) initiates for membership milestones while enjoying a meal together.

14 BETA ZETA BETA (HOUSTON, TX)

The alumnae chapter had a lot to celebrate, recognizing sisters celebrating 50, 60 and 75 years of Alpha Chi Omega membership!

15 ALPHA UPSILON (THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA) ALUMNA

Unalane Carter Ablondi received her 75-year milestone pin from sisters of the Epsilon Eta Epsilon (Northern VA) alumnae chapter.

16 WELCOME TO THE SISTERHOOD

Active and alumnae members of the Beta Lambda (University of Arizona) chapter were thrilled to welcome Andrea Carmichael (third from left) into the sisterhood as an alumna initiate.

17 THREE GENERATIONS OF ALPHA CHIS

Finley Ryan was initiated into the Sigma (University of Iowa) chapter this fall and was joined at the ceremony by her mother, Kris Anderson Ryan (Alpha, DePauw University), and her grandmother and Alpha Chi Omega Past National President, Judy Evans Anderson (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota).

18 MU (SIMPSON COLLEGE) ALUMNA

Dawn Shearer Dixon’s 75-year milestone ceremony was a family celebration. Not only did her daughter Denise Core (Mu) join the festivities, but the Alpha Omicron Alpha (Des Moines, IA) chapter serenaded Dawn’s husband with the “Sweetheart Song.”

ACCOLADES

1 DELTA RHO (UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS) ALUMNA

Jean Turner Carter was inducted into the Arkansas Legal Hall of Fame this fall, celebrating her 40 years of legal services focused on underserved and low-income populations.

2 OMICRON (BAKER UNIVERSITY) ALUMNA

Rose Schneeberger was elected as one of 25 members – and the only woman – to the Downey, California Kiwanis All-Century Team as part of the organization’s November centennial celebration.

3 KAPPA (UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSINMADISON) ALUMNA

Joanie Helgesen holds nine pageant titles, including Ms. Super Senior Universe 2020. She loves to perform, including playing the harp, tap dancing and starting a local music club.

4 ALPHA UPSILON (THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA) COLLEGIAN

Kate Herndon is one of only 32 students nationwide this year to have earned the Rhodes Scholarship, the most prestigious academic award for American college graduates and the oldest award for international study. Kate says, “Looking toward my future, I am excited to form a global community of peers and support as I seek answers to the problem of domestic violence.”

5 ZETA UPSILON (CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY) ALUMNA

While serving the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation as a trustee, Julie M. Stufft received the Department of State’s annual award for outstanding economic performance by a senior officer. As shared at the awards presentation, “Under Julie’s leadership ... the Department developed initiatives that streamlined the visa renewal process and reinforced economic reach across 45 states and over 2,000 companies.”

6 BETA ETA (FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY) ALUMNA

Amie Remington published The Art and Science of HR based on her 30 years of work in the field of employment law. This leadership, HR and employment law book helps business owners, supervisors and leaders stay compliant and develop employment practices that can lead to employee satisfaction and higher profits.

In Memoriam

Reported to headquarters between November 1, 2024 and January 31, 2025.

Name, Initiation Year, Month and Year of Death

Alpha (DePauw University)

Margaret Mutschler Armantrout, 1950, February 2018

Sarah Howell Galliger, 1950, July 2016

Susan A. Gauger, 1959, November 2024

Carolyn Burckhalter McGahey,1950, June 2014

Virginia Kraft Scatterday, 1950, January 2017

Martha Kuenzli Smith, 1964, July 2021

Phyllis M. Taylor, 1956, January 2024

Margaret A. Thienemann, 1950, February 2020

Helen Ford Trask, 1950, September 2015

Joan Davis Vargo, 1950, April 2014

Mary Elizabeth Watts, 1949, February 2024

Beta (Albion College)

Judith L. Andrews, 1957, December 2018

Delinda Littleton Blamy, 1962, September 2017

Barbara Ann Eckfeld, 1952, August 2018

Janet Lee Henderson, 1965, May 2022

Jane Caley Mixer, 1950, May 2024

Marjorie Watson Pochert, 1950, February 2020

Maureen Lee Sanders, 1954, August 2022

Gamma (Northwestern University)

Darlene Coufal Braak, 1950, December 2020

Janice Klein Brune, 1960, March 2023

Lucy Jo De Monchaux, 1955, April 2019

Edith Gillespie, 1953, July 2021

Carolyn Mildred Hood, 1950, August 2022

Ann Jo Lloyd, 1957, May 2017

Mary Lee Mahan, 1950, July 2015

Mary Lovejoy Sweet, 1963, August 2024

Delta (Allegheny College)

Bonita Kathleen Beck, 1950, October 2003

Marcia E. Grant, 1964, June 2016

Barbara DuVal Park, 1955, November 2023

Epsilon (University of Southern California)

Jacqueline Teets Armstrong, 1947, January 2018

Nancy Parke Cagnacci Quam, 1957, November 2024

Marie Josephine Christopher, 1950, August 2017

Charmayne Leeson Killingsworth, 1950, September 2024

Katherine Irene Offenhauser, 1950, March 2020

Melissa Beth Scott, 2014, June 2020

Denise Joanne Smith, 1979, January 2019

Zeta (New England Conservatory)

Jeanne Boissoneau Collias, 1950, September 2020

Eta (Bucknell University)

Betty Burrows McCoy, 1959, January 2023

Jacqueline Marjorie Nelson, 1950, November 2000

Pollyann Keller Owen,1953, December 2024

Virginia Ann Weber, 1962, March 2021

Theta (University of Michigan)

Barbra Suzanne Anderson, 1965, November 2023

Edith Louise Andrew-Akita, 1947, May 2024

Sherry Truesdell Andrews, 1950, March 2016

Norma Jo Billmeyer, 1950, March 2015

Frances Dailey Boucher, 1950, January 2017

Carole Lofgren Ehret, 1950, March 2023

Barbara Harris Erdody, 1955, November 2023

Dominique Karibian Lark, 1982, March 2023

Mildred F. Mills, 1959, September 2023

Marjorie C. Mix, 1950, December 2007

Marjorie C. Mix, 1950, December 2022

Rosemary Smith Pleune, 1940, January 2025

Carolyn Suzanne Randall Cross, 1944, August 2024

Cherry E. Squiers, 1950, December 2019

Iota (University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign)

Kathryn Avery Burtness, 1944, April 2016

Patricia Edwards Caron, 1953, December 2024

Delores A. Fogler, 1950, February 2021

Jane Anne Jones, 1996, December 2021

Penny Borst Larson, 1957, June 2024

Julie A. Lashbrook, 1947, September 2012

Elizabeth Ann Mudd, 1987, November 2024

Marjorie Hawthorne Novotny, 1945, October 2017

Kelly Renee Park, 1984, April 2024

Dessa Byrd Reed, 1950, May 2022

Mary Katherine Scott Reising, 1966, January 2018

Patricia L. Summers, 1950, September 2019

Patricia Gail Voras, 1954, December 2024

Kappa (University of WisconsinMadison)

Amy Lou Chenery, 1950, February 2018

Carol Senogles Curran, 1950, August 2015

Susan Mary Hilty, 1966, November 2024

Jacqueline Jones Irwin, 1950, October 2008

Merll M. Korndoerfer, 1948, September 2017

Rosemary Elizabeth Metzdorff, 1945, January 2018

Virginia Frances Miller, 1950, February 2022

Joan Mary Schaefer, 1952, January 2022

Rose Marie Piper Selsmeyer, 1952, September 2024

Carol Carpenter Simmons, 1965, February 2024

Julie Crane Stafford, 1950, June 2015

Bettye Lail Thompson, 1950, February 2019

Judith Kay Verhulst, 1962, February 2021

Lambda (Syracuse University)

Doris C. Andruss, 1950, August 2022

Katherine Filardo Benzel, 1961, June 2022

Martha Potter Corse Tubbs, 1955, June 2023

Janice Hilbert Halliday, 1950, March 2008

Harriet Galpin Hughes, 1944, January 2025

Mu (Simpson College)

LaDonna Lea Allen, 1950, August 2017

Diane Ardelle Chamberlain, 1958, February 2024

Dorothy Susanne Susanne Henze, 1950, May 2006

Arlene Overton Kennedy, 1940, June 2011

Betty Ruth Pickering, 1943, July 2016

Marilyn Wynette Webner, 1950, April 2023

Diana Lee Whitlow, 1963, December 2024

Nu (University of Colorado Boulder)

Margot Eddy Bennett, 1950, January 2019

Karen Louise Bernoteit, 1984, July 2006

Marjorie Elliott Bevlin, 1935, July 2009

Carole Ann Cox, 1959, November 2021

Margaret Peggy Doole, 1956, November 2021

Patricia A. Dover, 1950, June 2017

Marian Slininger Gibson Gulardo, 1951, May 2018

Eleanor Dimond Haines, 1956, August 2024

Mary Ellen Hirst, 1950, February 2012

Judith Lee Lutz, 1950, August 2024

Joanne Selck Robbins, 1950, December 2014

Romaine Barber Romney, 1944, December 2022

Sally Joan Young, 1950, May 2021

Xi (University of Nebraska – Lincoln)

Elizabeth Stehly Cantrell, 1947, May 2017

Rosemarie Weber Curtis, 1968, October 2024

Judith J. Denker, 1958, April 2021

Bonnie M. Gaebler, 1947, December 2007

Marcia Stransky Gilmore, 1951, May 2019

Joyce Ann Mesmer, 1950, January 2019

Shirley Peterson Munson, 1953, November 2018

Charlene Ferguson Reishus, 1955, August 2010

Jean Marie Russell, 1960, April 2020

Eva Mae Seidel, 1939, July 2015

Jane Winslow Shaw, 1939, May 2004

Jean Karol Sherrick, 1950, September 2020

Charlene Joyce Srb, 1952, March 2024

Frances Ann Stehly, 1950, July 2012

Omicron (Baker University)

Marsha Ann Darlington, 1955, January 2012

Effie Jean Kerley, 1944, November 2012

Mary Martha Moss, 1950, November 2021

Elizabeth Middlebrook Papa, 1952, July 2023

Dorothy J. Rollert, 1950, March 2002

Pauline Bee Valliere, 1943, November 2023

Pi (University of California, Berkeley)

Barbara Lee Aubertine, 1950, February 2001

Suzanne Harrison Berg, 1953, April 2019

Julia Grace Merlo, 1977, November 2015

Christine Williams Pollock, 1950, November 2019

Rho (University of Washington)

G. Marilyn Ives Breindl, 1950, January 2018

Nancy Lou Cushing, 1957, December 2024

JoAnne Winget Dlott, 1954, October 2024

Marguerite Sideres Herzog, 1950, April 2005

Mary E. Hiester, 1930, August 2003

Doreen Gladys Kolb, 1950, September 2021

Sharon Rose Olin, 1950, November 2013

Maureen Dearing Ronken, 1959, June 2024

JoAnne Evelyn Tallman, 1950, December 2004

Marilyn Newcomb Tallman, 1950, December 2004

Sigma (University of Iowa)

Marylene Laura Cavooris, 1951, April 2019

Patricia Olson Dent, 1961, October 2020

Carol Helene Divertie, 1950, November 2010

Shirley Jean Johnson, 1951, January 2024

Betsy Crusinberry McCarville, 1951, May 2024

Gloria McQueen Walter, 1950, July 2019

Tau (Brenau University)

Lottie Kyzar Bailey, 1950, April 2017

Margaret Prosser Hammond, 1950, May 2015

Jean Evans Morgan, 1945, November 2012

Marina James Pappas, 1950, September 2010

Upsilon (Millikin University)

Kathleen McCarthy Carpenter, 1950, May 2016

Michele Claire Connelly, 1973, April 2021

Angela T. Elder, 1950, June 2023

Beverly Ann Hinton, 1950, July 2018

Mary Lou Louise McBride, 1950, February 2022

Barbara A. Moffat, 1968, December 2017

Dorles Jean Paden, 1952, August 2024

Mary Jean Sears, 1950, April 2014

Marilyn Griffin Taylor, 1950, June 2023

Mary Grace Walker, 1950, April 2023

Phi (University of Kansas)

Mary Jane Grinter, 1957, January 2023

Lynn Ruth Jones, 1966, October 2024

Georgia Moore, 1950, July 2019

Janet Claire Murphy, 1968, March 2017

Ruth Marie Rinker, 1957, June 2024

Alice Barbara Snodgrass, 1958, August 2021

Ange Diane Stalcup, 1954, May 2018

Vivian Eileen Young, 1950, May 2014

Chi (Oregon State University)

Shirley J. Althaus, 1950, June 2022

Carolyn J. Bertsch, 1953, June 2023

Sue Ann Blaco, 1959, July 2014

Jean Austin Bolos Fairchild, 1950, August 2007

Patricia Kathleen Gaunt, 1950, October 2018

Dona Clifton Gordon, 1950, June 2023

Joyce Lucille Leggatt, 1950, November 2019

Ann Ordeman Moffette, 1950, October 2024

Kristin LaRae Shimek, 1990, November 2012

Psi (The University of Oklahoma)

Janis Ellen Calmes, 1955, November 2017

Karen Jean Cavin, 1983, February 2014

Mary Lynn Dahlgreen Beezley, 1952, June 2017

Dorothy Savage Hammert, 1948, September 2023

Carolyn Elaine Knapp, 1959, November 2024

Kathryn Leigh Koontz, 2004, October 2024

Jane Nicholson, 1974, July 2023

Eleanor Ardyth Phillips, 1950, October 2014

Jane Holbird Primrose, 1958, October 2024

Beverly Martin Sprehe, 1950, April 2024

Johnell Preston Welden, 1950, November 2013

Geraldine Evelyn Zalkovsky, 1960, October 2023

Omega (Washington State University)

Mary Frances Bustion, 1938, September 2012

Pamela R. Corpman,1964, October 2022

Eleanor Ann Dupee, 1954, November 2016

Marian Stouffer Elberson, 1943, January 2020

Margaret Jane Larsson, 1950, September 2012

Bonita Thelma Roberts, 1940, January 2022

Mary Teresa Schreck, 1929, January 2002

Alpha Beta (Purdue University)

Barbara Jean Clayton, 1949, January 2025

Nancy Jean Coolman, 1962, August 2018

Elizabeth J. Dresser, 1956, December 2024

Elizabeth Joyce Higgins, 1950, August 2021

Rosemary Riordan Hughes, 1944, December 2024

Mary Beth Abel Kucka, 1970, January 2024

Ellen Adel Morrison, 1950, August 2015

Juanita L. Nee Nelson, 1950, March 2011

Mary Jeannine Stokes, 1949, November 2024

Jean Maddox Weinheimer, 1950, May 2022

Alpha Gamma (The University of New Mexico)

Dorothy Peters Bolton, 1950, April 2019

Jo Ann Hunter, 1951, August 2014

Phyllis Lee Lucky, 1950, May 2013

John Julia Strong, 1934, September 1993

Alpha Delta (University of Cincinnati)

Doris June Austin, 1950, August 2021

Theresa Claire Brescia, 1947, August 2016

Florence Louise Kimball Mayer, 1949, December 2023

Ruth Helen Luttmer, 1950, October 2018

Joyce Ann McCrate, 1950, January 2019

Elizabeth Connolly Pettit, 1950, May 2017

Susane Granzow Phillips, 1950, November 2015

Martha J. Sassen, 1948, April 2021

Carol Hanna Spain, 1950, April 2020

Martha Hitchens Steer, 1963, August 2018

Alpha Epsilon (University of Pennsylvania)

Shirley Congdon Beattie, 1945, February 2023

Peggy Rincliffe Beatty, 1945, July 2023

Elizabeth Pedrotty Cornman, 1950, June 2021

June Reinhardt Huebner, 1956, January 2025

Alpha Zeta (Washington University in St. Louis)

Florence Bosman Feuerborn, 1957, February 2017

Elizabeth Brockmeyer Hinshaw, 1944, November 2024

Gloria Jean O’Dell, 1950, February 2014

Betty C. Ranta, 1961, August 2020

Marilyn Louise Tallman, 1944, April 2024

Mary A. Zaki, 1950, April 2022

Alpha Eta (University of Mount Union)

Linda Logan Byrd, 1959, November 2024

Jane Ann Hales, 1950, February 2007

Constance Rosalind Jenkins, 1953, May 2018

Barbara L. Robertson, 1950, June 2016

Mary Ann Stockum, 1952, November 2024

Elizabeth A. Thorpe, 1948, December 2022

Betty Evans Watkins, 1945, November 2016

Alpha Iota (University of Vermont)

Linda Riggs Abbott, 1963, June 2017

Janet Lois Geer, 1950, December 2021

Terry Thatcher Iliff, 1957, November 2023

Jane Tandy Lindquist, 1951, May 2016

Janet Brickner McNeil, 1950, March 2020

Shirley Eva Money, 1950, March 2015

Alpha Kappa (University of Oregon)

Christine Ann Connelly, 1999, January 2024

Amy Katherine Erenberger, 1993, November 2023

Helen Virginia Franciscovich, 1950, September 2022

Patricia Sue Linn, 1962, July 2024

Hallie Belle Nottingham, 1950, August 2022

Winnafred May Smith, 1951, May 2024

Peggy Dolores Sullivan, 1952, October 2024

Sally Ryan Tomlinson, 1953, November 2024

Donna Lee Youngreen, 1952, October 2013

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Alpha Lambda (University of Minnesota)

Mary Ann Bodem, 1961, March 2024

Toni D. Elliott, 1965, April 2022

Catherine Ellen Hays, 1957, November 2011

Suzanne Johnson Tennison, 1954, December 2024

Genevieve Lucille Wood, 1947, January 2012

Alpha Mu (Indiana University)

Rena Marie Guttrich, 2007, November 2022

Ruth Kyle Lewis, 1947, March 2024

Mary Helen MacGregor, 1956, May 2024

Donna Mae Olson, 1950, August 2019

Molly Kristine Parsley, 1994, March 2021

Gayle Marie Stuebe, 1956, March 2024

Ann Morrow West, 1950, December 2022

Alpha Nu (University of Missouri)

Marilyn Osgood Ackermann, 1950, August 2009

Barbara Coso Bowie, 1950, May 2016

MauDell A. Breeden, 1950, April 2024

Nancy Jo Stovall Cramer, 1950, January 2021

Elizabeth Schick Elliott, 1956, October 2024

Gretchen M. Fort, 1954, December 2017

Angela Maxine Kreienheder, 1965, December 2024

Lynda Orine Owings, 1958, March 2023

Kelly Christine Pozzoli, 1998, February 2014

Alpha Xi (University of Montana)

Shirley McDonald O’Neil, 1950, May 2023

Eileen Mae Wimett, 1937, December 2003

Alpha Omicron (The Ohio State University)

Joan Massay Dennis, 1953, August 2024

Betty Ann Farwick, 1950, August 2017

Peggy Lee Hardin, 1960, January 2025

Judith Ann Haskell, 1955, September 2023

Joan Evelyn Hebden, 1950, February 2016

Kathleen Mary Huettl Courtney, 1949, August 2024

Gloria Mae Kinnaird, 1950, July 2017

Nancy Wyatt Parthe, 1950, September 2012

Judith Anne Schlag, 1950, April 2010

Linda Lee Spahr, 1960, December 2024

Carrie Jean Waters, 1950, September 2014

Gloria Olga Williams, 1951, October 2019

Alpha Pi (University of North Dakota)

Kathryn Geck Dorgan, 1969, May 2024

Alpha Rho (University of Idaho)

Patsy Miller Rogalski, 1961, February 2012

Alpha Sigma (Ohio Wesleyan University)

Barbara Hepplewhite Draheim, 1950, June 2006

Joyce Holstein Kinlock, 1950, September 2024

Frances B. Lewis, 1943, November 2005

Patricia Martha Lofgreen, 1963, June 2014

Alice Carolyn Zeman, 1950, July 2011

Alpha Tau (University of New Hampshire)

Nancy S. Gillum, 1966, September 2023

Barbara Dustin Hobby, 1950, October 2011

Joan M. Kingsbury, 1950, March 2023

Ann Patricia Lapchick, 1955, October 2022

Susan Hollidge McFarland, 1969, April 2016

Edith Swindlehurst Rumrill, 1950, September 2015

Rhoda Pickwick Stevens, 1950, December 2021

Alpha Upsilon (The University of Alabama)

Pauline Fenn Barnes, 1951, July 2020

Betty Jean Bentley, 1950, November 2006

Anne Patton Boles, 1967, August 2018

Rosemary Graddick Cooke, 1950, January 2022

Billie Macon Fain, 1950, November 2024

Grace Irvine Oliver, 1950, November 2020

Donna Wesson Smalley, 1974, November 2024

Mary Joan Smith, 1950, October 2021

Amy Virginia Stevenson, 1942, December 2023

Elizabeth Ann Ward, 1959, January 2025

Shirley Cain Wilson, 1950, July 2019

Alpha Phi (The University of Texas at Austin)

Lucianne Knight Alderdice, 1950, June 2021

Marian Laverne Ballard, 1944, September 2016

Ella Louise Burba, 1946, January 2016

Donna Jean Craig,1950, November 2022

Joella Roberts Guenther, 1950, August 2015

Georgia Poulos James, 1944, August 2023

Loretta M. Lyden, 1950, January 2022

Kathryn Thomas McMillen, 1950, February 2013

Beverly Ann Muraglia, 1969, November 2018

Ruth Anne Nash, 1948, September 2024

Elisabeth Wason O’Steen, 1950, December 2022

Patricia Sheerin Robertson, 1950, June 2023

Marcia Margaret Shaw, 1963, September 2017

Jimmie Corinne Staacke, 1953, November 2024

Charlene L. Warren, 1950, June 2010

Alpha Chi (Butler University)

Cleo Lorraine Ellis, 1950, December 2021

Brooke Hilary Feister, 1959, December 2024

Martha Lancet Fishback, 1946, November 2023

Phyllis Jean Gambill, 1947, April 2024

Debra Jayne Ratliff, 1966, August 2022

Normajean Butts Stone, 1946, November 2024

Alpha Psi (UCLA)

Theresa L. Colesworthy, 1950, January 2019

Celida M. Deseran, 1950, January 2022

Kathy M Guilfoyle, 1975, September 2022

Nancy Hagenbuch Harwood, 1947, December 2011

Norma Jean Jackson, 1950, December 2015

Jacquolyn Asaro Sawyer, 1953, April 2021

Patricia Moore Thomas, 1951, April 2024

Alpha Omega (Birmingham-Southern College)

Dixie Ruth Cahill, 1961, September 2023

Louise Dismukes, 1950, September 2018

Bettie Louise Hicks, 1950, September 2008

Linda Diane Higginbotham, 1961, July 2024

Theresa Josephine Perri, 1982, October 2000

Terry Ellen Wade, 1966, March 2023

Beta Gamma (Louisiana State University)

Patsy Ruth Bryant, 1952, January 2016

Betsy Ann Dombourian, 1950, November 2012

Sheila Grace Palmisano, 1962, August 2014

Sarah Voelker Stoltman, 1957, September 2020

Beta Delta (College of William & Mary)

Nancy Jane Brumbaugh, 1950, August 2021

Anna Floreta Jump, 1950, January 2022

Jo Ellen Kessler, 1960, December 2019

Germaine Burkes McClanahan, 1950, March 2023

Beta Epsilon (Michigan State University)

Joan Mary Legg, 1950, October 2016

Marjorie Ruth Rees, 1950, August 2011

Patricia Page Rindskopf, 1950, March 2022

Pauline Anne Schadt, 1951, August 2024

Mary Elizabeth Smith, 1957, January 2024

Judith G. Sturm, 1960, November 2021

Patricia G. Weichert, 1950, February 2022

Marilyn Jean Zweng, 1950, August 2019

Beta Zeta (Whitman College)

Dolores Ruth Bjorback, 1950, January 2023

Mary McMillan Brandt, 1952, June 2024

Sarah Alice Bunnell, 1950, March 2022

Suzanne Lutcher Colgan, 1957, July 1997

Sherril C. DeMoss, 1953, March 2006

Jane Allison Schuster, 1940, December 2017

Marybelle Matthews Sincock, 1936, November 2002

Beta Eta (Florida State University)

Patricia Ann Durham, 1955, July 2024

Carol Othen France, 1958, October 2022

Susan Miller Kinney, 1968, February 2024

Annette Joaquin Nelson, 1962, July 2021

Rose Mary Ogram, 1949, July 2022

Mary Helen Steinhauer, 1950, May 2018

June Tomlin Stephenson, 1950, January 2022

Montelle Audrey Trammell, 1962, April 2024

Barbara Thomas Wills, 1950, May 2020

Beta Theta (Lawrence University)

Virginia Runge, Appleton, 1951 February 2022

Mary Baker Horan, 1945, November 2022

Dawn Marilyn Larson, 1944, July 2023

Janet Spencer Ollmann, 1951, January 2017

Mildred Elizabeth Swart, 1950, June 2019

Beta Kappa (University of Wyoming)

Janice Ann Erisman, 1956, September 2018

Nancy Elisabeth Marty, 1955, June 2020

Beta Lambda (University of Arizona)

Joan Ella Ebert, 1950, April 2019

Gwendolyn H. Hartmann, 1946, February 2021

Rose Marie James, 1950, November 2022

Marjorie Ruth Leider, 1950, March 2024

Lois Vaughn Mackey, 1950, August 2022

Tara Nicole Neal, 2013, May 2020

Carol Ann Pellerito, 1955, March 2021

Patsy Sue Stewart, 1950, August 2015

Beta Mu (Pennsylvania State University)

Louise Coward Anderson, 1960, September 2017

Norma Lee Herman, 1950, August 2016

Virginia Laudano Lester, 1950, November 2016

Susan Evelyn Stout, 1960, July 2022

Beta Nu (University of Utah)

Carolyn Sharp Barney, 1961, January 2019

Donna Joy Bills, 1950, April 2012

Lucy Rae Capel, 1947, May 2017

Beverly Backman Davis, 1950, December 2022

Joanne Bushman Doxey, 1951, November 2020

Marion Louise Dunn, 1957, November 2020

Phyllis Bench Ensign, 1950, May 2020

Rosanne Openshaw Newell, 1960, November 2024

Mary Joan Ostler,1950, July 2018

Virginia Madsen Sargent, 1950, April 2020

Lois Jeanette Sprunt, 1950, November 2019

Kathryn Marie Steffensen, 1950, January 2016

Phyllis Elaine Williams, 1957, November 2020

Beta Xi (Utah State University)

Ann Jones Bryant ,1953, February 2019

Trudie Hoffman Downs, 1950, April 2023

Elaine Reese Farmer, 1954, January 2025

Joyce Rinderknecht Horgan, 1950, February 2019

Gaynell Johnsen Hutson, 1950, April 2019

Ada Joye Petersen, 1950, January 2016

Daphne Faye Shupe, 1950, February 2015

Joylene Hobbs Steffensen, 1950, February 2020

Bonnie D. Summers, 1950, March 2008

Faye Raymond Tuttle, 1959, March 2017

Afton Elaine Williamson, 1950, July 2012

Beta Omicron (Florida Southern College)

Nancy Meredith Booream, 1950, May 2022

Joy Joan Golliver, 1954, October 2024

Dorothy Owenby Schroeder, 1948, January 2025

Priscilla Ann Van Zandt, 1943, September 2012

Beta Pi (Washington College)

Marilyn Davis Girard, 1964, January 2022

Marlene Meyer Hubbard ,1950, August 2016

Beta Rho (American University)

Maxine Park Montgomery, 1950, September 2015

Jeanne Betsock Stillman, 1961, August 2024

Beta Sigma (University of Georgia)

Mary Ellen Stewart Ciganovich, 1971, November 2024

Dian Heard Cole, 1961, July 2020

Frances Fay Collins, 1954, December 2023

Sherrie Grow Flynn, 1950, December 2021

Audrey Jane Ford Cofer, 1964, November 2024

Gloria Johnson Horstman, 1950, April 2024

Anne Hood Huppertz, 1949, October 2024

Nora Mahone Magoni, 1950, October 2023

Mary Ellen Wilson, 1949, December 2024

Beta Tau (Miami University)

Arlene Jane Brandt, 1950, April 2021

Nancy Ann Colton, 1953, January 2025

Carol Striegel Fara, 1952, February 2019

Shirley S. Immel, 1950, March 2019

Marjorie Ann Malcom, 1957, May 2020

Louan L. Schwartz, 1950, September 2018

Barbara J. Simone, 1958, May 2022

Daun Richards Smith-Kevelder, 1950, October 2014

Mary Frances Vaughan, 1950, May 2015

Beta Phi (Bowling Green State University)

Joann Hunter Abelein, 1946, September 2021

Carol Maye Adams, 1947, October 2024

Annette Ellen Brown, 1950, July 2006

Carol Lynne Heise-Gillies, 1957, January 2025

Marlene Welch Holkovic, 1951, July 2017

Linda Hughes Perlioni, 1965, June 2024

Julia-Dell Petrich, 1950, March 2016

Donna Heinzen Shurtz, 1950, October 2006

Susan Dill Staker, 1976, April 2023

Dorothy Raines Stevenson, 1944, December 2012

Wendy Eichenberger Thomas, 1972, June 2022

Beta Chi (Willamette University)

Jean Arden Gardner, 1950, December 2021

Sara Louise Kruse, 1950, June 2016

Joanne Moore Motschenbacher, 1950, October 2000

Jane Fooshee Sanford, 1950, September 2017

Marilyn J. Scapanski, 1954, February 2018

Beta Psi (Louisiana Tech University)

Sara Ellen Benton, 1950, February 2018

Anna Coates Nevils, 1950, December 2009

Frances Lillian Norris, 1946, June 2015

Sally Will Pelton, 1960, October 2020

Nelwyn Pinson Shows, 1965, December 2016

Beta Omega (The University of Toledo)

Donna K. Gallanis, 1950, February 2024

Nancy Margaret Kratt, 1950, March 2018

Mary Katherine Woodfill, 1955, November 2019

Gamma Delta (University of Denver)

Suzanne Arden Goldy, 1952, April 2022

Phyllis Brisack Johnstone, 1950, April 2018

Gloria Caroline Nelson, 1952, October 2018

Betty Norgren Stroh, 1950, December 1970

Gamma Epsilon (Oklahoma State University)

Linda Beth Allen, 1974, June 2013

Lee Hurst Bunch, 1961, June 2005

Dixie Lee Chen, 1958, April 2018

Ruth Ann Clabaugh, 1950, February 2023

Judith Lee Colgin, 1964, June 2023

Jan Elise Dunkelberg, 1967, July 2023

Jo Ann Hutchison Engelking ,1954, November 2018

Nancy Carolyn Ferguson, 1968, June 1987

Barbara J. Foster, 1950, December 2019

Carolee Ann Frank, 1974, October 2023

Phoebe Jane Goodwin, 1970, September 2023

Pamelia Carol Goree, 1948, November 2024

Carolyn May Hunter, 1955, January 2024

Edwina Pogue Hunter, 1953, March 2016

Mickolyn Ann Jeffery, 1968, December 2022

Julia Leigh Jobe, 1974, October 2018

Marcia J. Keele, 1947, June 2014

Linda Kay Lusk, 1961, May 2024

Barbara Kay Mayes, 1961, August 2022

Nancy Colleen McCoy, 1960, August 2022

Alice Gene Meacham, 1947, April 2022

Kimberli Lane Motley-Moomey, 1976, February 2021

Elizabeth Jane Nichols, 1948, January 2022

Maxine Kelle Nixon, 1950, January 2015

Marilyn Jean Ownby, 1960, September 2019

Donna Lou Palu, 1969, May 2023

Denise Renee Pearse, 1983, August 2011

Jenny Lee Redwine, 1952, December 2023

Lynda Kay Rhoades-Frost, 1971, March 2005

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Joy Kamp Russell, 1947, November 2016

Patricia Stansberry Schiff, 1967, November 2018

Janet Lyles Schroeder, 1959, October 2017

Irma Jean Sparks, 1953, December 2020

Judy Janet Tarter, 1968, September 2018

Mary Ruth Waldrep, 1947, February 2024

Gamma Zeta (Kansas State University)

Bonnie Rose Barrett, 1950, December 2024

Lesley Eileen Case, 1967, April 2024

Julie Denise Ciesielski, 1968, December 2023

Margaret Rothberger Ehmke, 1950, August 2005

Bonnie Bea Hanson, 1962, June 2022

Janet Richardson Himebaugh, 1950, January 2013

Carol Ann Keenan, 1950, April 2016

Patricia Kay Pressman, 1961, June 2024

Gamma Eta (San Jose State University)

Patricia Brizee Bell, 1950, October 2022

Marian E. Ciabattari, 1951, July 2023

Ann Benstein Little, 1959, September 2022

Marilyn Jean McKelvie, 1948, August 2022

Barbara Walden Pomeranz, 1959, July 2024

Valda Theodora Tormey ,1948, November 2024

Dorothy Rankin Waldie, 1958, November 2020

Gamma Theta (University of Maryland)

Katherine Hunt Binder, 1979, June 2017

Lois Ann Bird, 1948, December 2023

Mary Lou Yopes Plutschak, 1969, October 2020

Joanne Ruth Price, 1956, December 2024

Nancy Lee Pyle, 1960, May 2023

Gamma Iota (University of Florida)

Ann Jacquelyn Canepa, 1950, March 2004

Marjorie Elizabeth Fiorilla, 1952, November 2022

Kay Patterson Netscher, 1954, December 2016

Millicent Taylor Williamson, 1965, January 2025

Gamma Kappa (Idaho State University)

Marion Clark Bowen, 1950, March 2015

Doris Weaver Brydon, 1950, November 2024

Nancy Harrison Coke, 1950, April 2018

Gayle Couch Dudley, 1950, July 2023

Marilyn Donaldson Kelly, 1953, August 2020

Patricia Jayne Lombard Bilyeu, 1950, August 2011

Glenna Mae Olson, 1950, September 2015

Rhea June Paige, 1950, September 2016

Lenno Joyce Wells, 1950, December 2023

Gamma Lambda (Kent State University)

Frances Joanne Cardinal, 1950, December 2021

Joan A. Conger, 1950, April 2008

Joan Wasson Froelich, 1950, October 2018

Josephine G. Heisler, 1950, May 2014

Ruth Horbaly Karakul, 1950, June 2019

Joanne Clare Mannino, 1950, December 2022

Martha Nye Shriver, 1950, June 2014

Stephanie Kornprobst Wester, 1950, February 2016

Gamma Mu (Ball State University)

Irene Rider Ahlgrim, 1950, June 2018

Gwenlyn E. Carter, 1950, February 2018

Mary Hullinger Faunce, 1950, September 2002

Mary Jane Fekrat, 1964, May 2015

Jacqueline Baird Foelber ,1950, July 2014

Carol Ann Healy, 1955, April 2023

Jane Stewart Italiano, 1950, December 2022

Margaret Ellen Lacey, 1965, January 2021

Jean Brown Milleman, 1950, December 2007

Pamela S. Peterson, 1970, November 2013

Joelma Tosh Powers, 1950, September 2019

Pauline Marie Rajkovich, 1950, October 2016

Letitia Lawler Siemion, 1960, November 2023

Martha Lee Soper, 1954, March 2021

Constance Jennings Titak, 1973, December 2023

Gamma Nu (San Diego State University)

Angela Marie Biscotti, 1962, October 2024

Loraine Cecilia Brown, 1950, December 2020

Dorothy Jane Greene, 1950, October 2022

Nettie Clark Hagar, 1950, April 2021

Cheryl Kay Maloney, 1967, June 2010

Marilyn Ann McCurdy, 1950, December 2020

Anna Rosa McMenomy, 1950, January 2013

Teresa Ann Shaffer, 1950, December 2018

Helen Schwartz Wetherill, 1950, February 1990

Marjorie Eckert Whitelaw, 1950, February 2014

Gamma Xi (Western Michigan University)

Evangeline Mary Carlin, 1953, June 2024

Janet Marie Fliss, 1958, January 2012

Barbara Ann Fox, 1953, June 2023

Betty Ann Goodrich, 1952, January 2025

Mary Lee King, 1965, November 2018

Carolyn Marie LaBudde, 1952, December 2020

Carol Suzanne Seely, 1953, September 2017

Louise Ilene Zevchak, 1969, September 2024

Gamma Omicron (Marshall University)

Effie Mae Ayers, 1953, August 2023

Ann Clay Irons, 1960, February 2024

Sandra Jean Mullett, 1958, October 2023

Gamma Pi (University of Tampa)

Elyse C. Kuchenthal, 1962, June 2018

Marlene Sue Paskert, 1959, June 2017

Gamma Rho (Texas Tech University)

Gabrielle Nicole Aguirre, 2015, April 2019

Lynn Marie Heiting Murphy, 1983, April 2013

Gamma Sigma (University of Rhode Island)

Mary Downing Gardner, 1962, January 2021

Gamma Tau (Oklahoma City University)

Mary Elizabeth Herrin, 1956, November 2024

Gamma Upsilon (University of Houston)

Patricia Helen Bradley, 1958, January 2020

Carole Mann Hoffpauir, 1956, November 2024

Cheryl Lynn Pechal, 1977, January 2020

Gamma Phi (Lamar University)

Judith Lee Cox, 1960, November 2024

Elizabeth Jane McDonald, 1956, February 2021

Gamma Chi (Stetson University)

Carole Owsley Lauger, 1962, February 2022

Cassandra June Mason, 1957, April 2023

Gamma Psi (Wichita State University)

Patricia V. Hayes, 1958, January 2017

Linda Anne Varga, 1964, March 2024

Jeanne Louise Welch, 1958, January 2022

Delta Epsilon (Southeast Missouri State University)

Judith Alice Bland, 1960, August 2021

Kimberly Sue Brinkmann, 1979, November 2024

Diane Kay Lawson, 1962, December 2014

Delta Zeta (Central Michigan University)

Patricia Ann Jarvis, 1963, March 2014

Joyce Yeomans Krull, 1958, January 2017

Delta Eta (Queens College)

Marilyn Miller Comer, 1959, March 2022

Delta Theta (University of Maine)

Jane Bachelder Morin, 1966, March 2021

Delta Lambda (Ripon College)

Cheryl Kolb Roht, 1962, March 2023

Delta Mu (University of Massachusetts)

Kathleen Michele Vincent, 1966, April 2017

Delta Nu (Iowa State University)

Ann Louise Ghrist, 1975, January 2024

Jill A. Gustafson, 1965, April 2021

Kristin Jane Smrcka, 1995, March 2000

Delta Xi (Denison University)

Linda Ward Holbrook, 1961, April 2024

Filiz Nevin Levy, 1996, July 2022

Maritza Katherine Webb, 2007, July 2024

Millicent Harris Woods, 1967, December 2015

Delta Pi (University of Tennessee, Knoxville)

DeAnne Pratt Mitchell, 1962, September 2023

Delta Rho (University of Arkansas)

Rhonda Wilkinson Rapps, 1967, April 2019

Delta Tau (Minnesota State University, Mankato)

Vicki Dianne Bielke, 1966, July 2019

Deborah Ann Brown, 1965, April 2021

Linda Lee Klein, 1967, September 2024

Delta Chi (William Woods University)

Sue Ann Schellmann, 1967, December 2020

Epsilon Zeta (Auburn University)

Keren Polidoro Jones, 1967, January 2023

Epsilon Iota (University of Northern Iowa)

Ann Marie Finger, 1975, December 2020

Connie Rae Price, 1968, November 2018

Epsilon Kappa (California State University, Fullerton)

Thelma Pruett Evatt, 1969, July 2022

Epsilon Lambda (The University of Texas at Arlington)

Rebecca Betts Bright, 1974, October 2016

Vicki Barker Taylor, 1969, July 2024

Epsilon Pi (Georgia Southwestern State University)

Janet L. Brown, 1972, January 2021

Epsilon Sigma (University of Central Florida)

Denise Catherine Cobia, 1978, June 2018

Zeta Eta (Bradley University)

Erin Louise Frieders, 2005, April 2013

Zeta Omicron (Vanderbilt University)

Karen Deborah Catherine Shields, 1994, April 2018

Zeta Rho (Northwood University)

Ann Elizabeth Gowgiel, 1983, April 2023

Zeta Sigma (Missouri State University)

Jennifer Ann Berkbigler, 1992, January 2025

Laura Catherine Berlin, 1996, October 2024

Megan Ohmes Ross, 1995, December 2024

Zeta Psi (Loyola University New Orleans)

Amy McCullough Biddlecomb Beane, 1986, January 2025

Theta Upsilon (University of South Carolina)

Chandler Elizabeth Merck, 2011, December 2020

Theta Chi (Lehigh University)

Gina Mackenzie, 1992, January 2022

Iota Mu (University of Richmond)

Meredith Sanderlin Thrower, 1991, January 2025

Iota Phi (Quinnipiac University)

Kimberly Anne Bilello, 2000, May 2017

Lambda Pi (University of Mississippi)

Gianna Marie Solimine, 2024, December 2024

We asked current and former chapter officers on social media:

WHAT IS YOUR PROUDEST LEADERSHIP MOMENT?

“Initiating our newest member class! Such a full circle moment especially being a senior.”

- CLAIRE DUNN (IOTA SIGMA, SOUTHERN METHODIST UNIVERSITY)

“Celebrating my chapter’s 10-year anniversary as VP RFA.”

- RILEY MCCRACKEN (KAPPA RHO, UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHARLOTTE)

“This past semester, my chapter’s philanthropy event raised more money than we have in years! It was so rewarding to be part of that experience and to know that I had played a part in our fundraising efforts as VP finance.”

- CHELSEA ACKMAN (EPSILON, UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA)

“As VP PRM, getting to plan for and host all of our amazing alumnae during homecoming!”

- MORGAN WIRTZ (BETA, ALBION COLLEGE)

“Giving my grandmother her 75-year pin (MC 1943!!)”

- ABBY PAUST (KAPPA PI, UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA, WILMINGTON)

STAY CONNECTED WITH US ON SOCIAL: @ALPHACHIOMEGAHQ

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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!

Alpha Chi Omega Fraternity

5635 Castle Creek Parkway N. Dr. Indianapolis, IN 46250-4304

alphachiomega.org

DAY OF GIVING - APRIL 3, 2025

Make your gift early by scanning the QR code or visiting give.alphachiomega.org/DGRSW!

All gifts to Day of Giving support the Real. Strong. Women.® Fund, making a direct impact on our sisterhood.