Q
alpha gamma delta
QUARTERLY
NOT YOUR MAMA'S RUSH THE RECRUITMENT ISSUE
Summer 2019 VOLUME 109 • ISSUE 4
Summer 2019
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Q alpha gamma delta
QUARTERLY Director of Communications and Marketing Wendy Theus Barker, Gamma Alpha–University of Georgia Quarterly Editor/Marketing Manager Jennifer Freeman Thompson, Upsilon–University of Oklahoma Content and Engagement Specialist Ashlie Freeman
Contributing Writers Hayley Baker, Gamma Zeta–University of Memphis, Beth Hartnett, Delta Tau–Chapman University, Olivia Levy, Tau–University of Toronto, Kristin Timken Neusel, Beta Eta– University of Southern Illinois at Carbondale Emily White, Theta Omega–University of South Carolina
The Mission
The Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly endeavors to serve as a forum of communication to inspire, educate and challenge members on Fraternity, Greek and women’s issues; to rekindle, sustain and excite member loyalty and interest through celebrating sisterhood and recognizing individual and chapter/club accomplishments; to serve as a permanent record and archive, documenting the Fraternity.
The Fine Print
The Quarterly is published four times per year by the Alpha Gamma Delta International Fraternity and is created by its in-house Communications and Marketing Team. Two printed issues are distributed by mail and two digital issues are distributed by email. Submission deadlines are the first day of September, November, February and May. Submissions and questions may be sent to à quarterly@alphagammadelta.org.
M E M B E R O R G A N I Z AT I O N
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Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly
International President's Viewpoint
R
ecently, I read a speech given by Founder Ethel Brown Distin at the 1954 International Convention in celebration of Alpha Gam's 50th anniversary. As I was reading it, the words practically jumped off the page at me. “Never could there have been more difference, not only in character, but also in our attitudes and college interests. Yet, there were similarities. All were enthusiastic, all had determination; perhaps, should I say, perseverance, as well as pride in our beginning,” Ethel said of our Founders. This statement also mirrors my Alpha Gam experience. Not long after I walked through the doors during recruitment, I knew I would be appreciated for being me. I sensed I was valued for what I had to offer, not because I fit some mold. Sure enough, that impression has proven true again and again. My sisters have cheered me on, yet they’ve also challenged me and provided constructive criticism when I needed it. They’ve helped me see how my actions impact others, and I’ve done the same for them. My sisters have seen leadership qualities in me—even when I couldn’t see them. Opportunities to learn and grow have emerged my entire adult life because I’ve responded cheerfully to Alpha Gamma Delta. What I can say now—that I didn't know at the beginning of my Alpha Gamma Delta experience—is that recruitment is the beginning of a promise.
looks like should be different for each of us, as we each have different passions. Our Founders knew it from the very beginning and they celebrated those differences. If you think about our Purpose—especially within the context of recruitment—you can see our values are big and well defined. They are inclusive, rather than exclusive. Our values ask us to sit “at the table” with sisters who may have different backgrounds, political, religious or cultural beliefs; to learn from and with one another. The very first line of our Purpose epitomizes this value. Since I am at the point in my life where many of my chapter sisters have daughters or friends headed to college, this time of year brings many questions about sorority recruitment. Each time, so many thoughts and feelings come rushing back as I imagine the experience all over again. I know now that, during recruitment, I only caught glimmers of what my sorority experience would become. There’s honestly no way I could have imagined how much my life would change because Alpha Gamma Delta chose me. I am so glad we take the time in this issue of the Quarterly to dig into recruitment as our chapters are experiencing it today. While it is different in many ways from what I experienced years ago, the heart of it remains the same. It is the beginning of a promise.
Take a moment to think about that statement: Recruitment is the beginning of a promise. Alpha Gamma Delta promises women who join that we will love them, we will give them space and support to grow and be the best they can be, now and always. Inherent in that promise is a space to belong, yet a space that values diversity. We seek women with ambition, respect and connectivity—but what that ambition, respect, and connectivity
Lee Woodham Langub
International President Gamma Alpha–University of Georgia
In This Issue
Alpha Gam ONLINE
ON THE HILL
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Alongside the Fraternity Government Relations Coalition, four Alpha Gams traveled to Washington, D.C., to lobby for the value of the fraternity/sorority experience.
CAUGHT IN THE RUSH
14
Though the "high frills" excess of yesterday's recruitment has been toned down, today's Values Based Recruiting provides potential new members a deeper look inside our sisterhood.
OLIVIA'S STORY
20
While stories of societal or systemic racism are all too familiar today, what is often unspoken is individual encounters of internalized racism and oppression.
In Every Issue 02 03 06 10 13 22
Spot a Squirrel/Inbox Red, Buff & Green Scene Fraternity Updates Alpha Gam Achievements She Said Sister Profile
24 26 27 30 32 33
Health & Vigor of Body Pearls of Wisdom Foundation Fraternity Housing Corporation Chapter Grand Last Look
facebook AlphaGammaDelta instagram AlphaGamIHQ twitter AlphaGammaDelta pinterest AlphaGam linkedin Alpha-Gamma-Delta snapchat AlphaGamIHQ web AlphaGammaDelta.org
Interact
WITH US
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on the
COVER In honor of our favorite time of year, this photo of Melinda Pagala at Delta Pi–San Francisco State University's 2018 Bid Day sums up how we feel about Primary Recruitment season. We look forward to seeing your 2019 photos—tag us on social media (links at the top of this page)!
Summer 2019
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SPOT A SQUIRREL Sometimes you spot a squirrel and you just have to have your photo taken with it. Hey, we get it—and we want to see it! Send your photos to àquarterly@alphagammadelta.org.
International Headquarters 8710 N. Meridian Street Indianapolis, IN 46260 317.663.4200 àinfo@alphagammadelta.org Office Hours 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m. ET
International Council
International President Lee Woodham Langub International Vice President–Alumnae Melissa Jacobson James International Vice President–Collegians Stephanie Simpson International Vice President–Membership Julie Berger Karstetter International Vice President–Extension Karen Donaldson Metzger International Vice President–Finance Alicia Adams International Vice President–Education Catherine Matthews Executive Director Katie Jolley Abernathy
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Foundation
President: Sue Maggio Sim Vice President: Carol Richards Peske 4
Secretary: Patti Guthrie Rogers Treasurer: Janis Lang Bartosz Trustees: Adrienne Kerr Beckett, Lee Woodham Langub, Martha Petry Parham, Lynne Dunford Rossell, Sylvie Kramer Weikert Executive Director: Julie Waitman
Fraternity Housing Corporation President: Mary Beth Dulcey Morabito
Directors: Gail Calkins Duree, Caroline Mahoney, Catherine Matthews Executive Director: Lisa Busch Spalding 2
Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly
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1. Penny Yocum Edmondson, Beta Xi–Purdue University, took a break from her VST duties as Ritual Committee Chair to visit Gatlinburg, Tennessee. 2. Kim Horner Dunnagan, Alpha Tau–Edinboro University, submitted this photo of her favorite legacy, Arabella, at the Ashe County farmer’s market in West Jefferson, North Carolina. 3. Deana Briggs, Beta Beta–North Dakota State University, in Ljubljana Slovenia. 4. Emily Whittle, Gamma Omicron–Eastern Kentucky University, made a new friend while on vacation in St. Augustine, Florida.
INBOX
Dear Quarterly,
Via Instagram "It has been a few
Brand Feedback
issues since I opened
Hi! I'm writing because I do not like the new "branding." No, I'm not Gen Z. I understand your research found other NPC groups with a rose and/ or Purpose. Our Purpose is unique to AΓΔ, as are the double roses, which I almost never see anymore. On the other hand, I realize that the branding is not for me, but for current college students. I hope they find it appealing.
up the Q so I was very surprised as I flipped through that it felt more like this month’s Real Simple than a
Nancy "Nima" Meeker Alpha Beta–University of Michigan
chapter report..."
Editor's Note: We appreciate you weighing in, Nima. Both the double rose and Purpose are still very much part of our identity and are prominently featured on our website. While we did receive a handful of notes from alumnae expressing their disappointment with the new brand, we received widespread messages of support from members of all ages.
Editor's Note: Arin Cox Teeter, Theta Upsilon–Georgetown College, kindly tagged us while settling in to read the Spring issue. Tag us @alphagamihq and show us where you read your Quarterly!
Lift Every Voice
My name is Olivia Levy and I am an initiated member of Alpha Gamma Delta Tau Chapter. Along with my involvements in Alpha Gam, I am also a full-time content writer for an international online magazine called ®Her Campus. I recently published a piece that received high amounts of attention from readers across North America. At the request of Tau Chapter Advisor Paula Martins, I am sending you this article to see if you would consider publishing it in the Quarterly. It talks about my experience as a woman of color in terms of internalized racism and other race-related issues. My Alpha Gam sisters are well aware of my struggles and have been incredibly supportive. As we are such a diverse organization that represents many cultures, ethnicities and races, I hope this piece will bring to light many of the voices within our wonderful organization and foster more opportunity to recruit diverse women. I look forward to hearing your response as you consider my request. Olivia Levy, Vice President of Member Experience Tau–University of Toronto Editor's Note: Thank you for sharing this important perspective, Olivia. Readers, we hope you'll read Olivia's piece on page 20 and take her words to heart.
Pleasant Reminders
Compliments on the Spring 2019 Quarterly. What a beautiful, insightful issue! I am so proud of my sorority. The years have gone by (82 years old and still going strong!); however, the wonderful memories I have of the women I lived with are renewed in the Quarterly. I look forward to many more issues. Clare Jalon Bismuth Alpha Beta–University of Michigan
Destination: Alpha Gam
Ever since my daughter joined a sorority in college, I have had occasion to read several issues of the Chi Omega equivalent to our Quarterly magazine. I am pleased the Quarterly has notably improved in content as well as presentation in recent years. However, I continue to be saddened by the absence of efforts to coordinate alumnae activities and develop ways in which alumnae can connect with one another. Seems like the new book club that I noticed advertised for the first time in the Fall 2018 issue is positive movement in that direction. Would it be possible to create a travel club for Alpha Gams with a few planned trips each year? Chi Omega currently offers this to its members and I feel our members would also benefit from such an opportunity. Just imagine the fun—as well as the savings—if many small groups got together to choose to vacation in the same place and could look forward to planned trips together each year or every few years. Has this idea been researched? Clearly Chi O decided it was viable—why not us? Tara Saia Lewis Theta Theta–Mississippi State University Editor's Note: Thanks for reaching out, Tara. IHQ regularly sponsors a number of alumnae initiatives, including the Alpha Gam Book Club, Circle in the City and Alpha Gam Night Out to name a few. While we don't have a formal travel club, several members take advantage of our special group rates at ® International Convention and tack on a few days before or after to gather for a mini reunion. We've passed along your idea to our Alumnae Development Specialist and encourage you and other alumnae to send their ideas for alumnae engagement to à alumnae@alphagammadelta.org. Summer 2019
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GOLD LETTER TEE This comfy v-neck has gold stitched letters on the front. Unisex fit; S-XXL; $26. Available in Garnet, Oatmeal and Emerald. Shop this look and more at ÂŽalphagamboutique.org.
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Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly
Red,Buff+Green
SCENE Stay Cozy Beat the chill of your roommate's heavy-handed thermostat or get a headstart on your fall wardrobe with this Alpha Gam Corduroy Sweatshirt available in S–XXL for $62 at ® alphagamboutique.org.
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From Instagram
Can't wait for the next #Quesday? IHQ staff and guest bloggers—including volunteers and collegiate members—bring you articles on a variety of informative and personal topics each week.
The top five most viewed blog posts of 2019 so far are: 5. ®Recruitment Advice for the Parent 4. ®Ten Things You Didn’t Know About Alpha Gam’s New Executive Director 3. ®Trendy Ways to Wear Your Assigned Recruitment Tee 2. ®From Houseboy to Husband 1. ®Everything You Need to Know About Applying for an Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation Scholarship
This May 30 Founders' Day post got 1,077 Likes
Check out this content and more at ® alphagammadelta.org/blog!
and resulted in InstaStory tributes from hundreds of collegiate members—and we loved it!
#WHATSMYNAME We received an outpouring of love and support following the tragic loss of collegian Samantha Josephson, Theta Omega–University of South Carolina. Our April 3 Facebook post was shared more than 2,000 times by members of all ages, Sami's fellow students and our intrafraternal brothers and sisters. Alpha Gamma Delta continues to urge you to ask "What's my name?" before entering any rideshare vehicle and to support legislation that works to strengthen the legitimacy of all rideshare drivers.
The Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation awarded its highest level of grants and scholarships ever last fiscal year (6.8.2018–5.31.2019), totaling
$795,200 [Learn more on page 27]
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FRATERNITY UPDATES
Former IP Joins NPC Board of Directors Alpha Gamma Delta is proud to announce that former International President Rie Gerah Hoehner, Epsilon Nu–University of Central Oklahoma, recently joined the National Panhellenic Conference’s newly restructured Board of Directors.
New Archive Space Complete
NPC voted in October 2018 to replace its Executive Committee with a Board of Directors, consisting of five elected members and two rotating members. Alpha Gamma Delta and Zeta Tau Alpha are the first organizations to join the board by rotation under this new structure. The 2019-2021 NPC directors are: • • • • • • •
Archives Committee members Jo Randolph Hatch, Alpha Beta– University of Michigan, Barbara Baerwald Bowman, Beta Xi, Purdue University, and Committee Chair Suzanne Carmack Spicer, Gamma Pi–Middle Tenneesee State University, cut the ribbon on the new Fraternity Archives space at IHQ. The new area includes library-style shelving for greater organization as well as increased measures to protect materials against outside elements, such as chemicals, dust, sunlight, water and fire. If you have archival materials you'd like to donate to IHQ, email Suzanne at à ACC@alphagammadelta.org.
Rie Gerah Hoehner, Alpha Gamma Delta Mary Kacmarcik Baker, Alpha Chi Omega Carol Jones, Alpha Omicron Pi, Chairman Laura Doerre, Kappa Alpha Theta Cheri De Jong, Sigma Kappa Laura Sweet, Sigma Sigma Sigma Malaea Seleski, Zeta Tau Alpha
"Alpha Gam is pleased to have Rie continue her service to the Fraternity by representing us on the NPC Board of Directors,” said International President Lee Woodham Langub. “We are confident she will be a strong voice as NPC and the larger fraternity/sorority community face changes and challenges.” The Council of Delegates, composed of a representative from each of the 26 NPC organizations, voted in May to elect the five non-rotating board members. Carole Jones of Alpha Omicron Pi—who has served as NPC Chairman since 2017— will continue as Chairman. Learn about NPC's efforts on Capitol Hill on page 8.
FHC Welcomes New Executive Director
The Alpha Gamma Delta Fraternity Housing Corporation is pleased to announce the hiring of Lisa Busch Spalding, Epsilon Delta–University of Texas at Austin, as Executive Director. Her experience in strategic operations, business analytics, organizational assessment has included positions with Angie’s List, where she served on the senior leadership team, and 17 years with the State of Indiana working in the areas of tax policy and economic development. 6
Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly
September is Hunger Action Month Alpha Gam
BOOK CLUB
Epsilon Nu, University of Central Oklahoma
Hunger Action Month was established by Feeding America in 2008 as a nationwide effort to battle food insecurity in local communities. During September, people all over America stand together with our philanthropic partner Feeding America and their nationwide network of food banks to fight hunger. Let us know how you're fighting hunger in your community by tagging us in your photos and using the hashtag #AlphaGamServes.
The Alpha Gam Book Club is your opportunity to connect with alumnae and explore themes relevant and important to modern women. Over the course of a year, the book club will read, talk, learn and join together with sisters—locally and virtually. AUGUST Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens SEPTEMBER What My Mother and I Don't Talk About by Michele Filgate OCTOBER I Wish You All The Best by Mason Deaver NOVEMBER/DECEMBER All These Beautiful Strangers by Elizabeth Klehfoth JANUARY Girl, Wash Your Face: Stop Believing the Lies by Rachel Hollis
IHQ's Communications and Marketing Team attended the ®Fraternity Communications Association annual conference in Columbus, Ohio, and brought home six honors from the highly competitive awards competition, including: 1st Place: eNewsletter; 1st Place: Critics' Choice - Photography; 2nd Place: Video Presentation - Educational; 2nd Place: Printed Materials - Educational; 3rd Place: Writing - Persuasive or Opinion Article; 3rd Place: Social Media Engagement. Additionally, Communications & Marketing Director Wendy Theus Barker, Gamma Alpha–University of Georgia, was appointed to FCA's Board of Directors.
FEBRUARY The Moment of Lift by Melinda Gates MARCH The Only Woman in the Room by Marie Benedict APRIL The Affairs of the Falćons by Melissa Rivero MAY Dare to Lead by Brené Brown JUNE/JULY On the Come Up by Angie Thomas
Participate in online discussions by joining the Facebook Group at ® bit.ly/AGD-Book-Club
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FRATERNITY UPDATES
Alpha Gam Goes to Washington M
ore than 250 fraternity and sorority members, both alumni and students, traveled to Washington, D.C., in early April to advocate for the value of the fraternity/sorority experience. Representing Alpha Gam were collegiate members Emily Buice, Beta Eta–Southern Illinois University Carbondale, and Ana Landsverk, Epsilon Chi–Kansas State University, NPC Delegate and former International President Rie Gerah Hoehner, Epsilon Nu–University of Central Oklahoma and Executive Director Katie Jolley Abernathy, Delta Theta–University of Idaho. In 2002, the National Panhellenic Conference, North American Interfraternity Conference, Fraternity/Sorority Political Action Committee and the Fraternity and Sorority Action Fund collaborated to create the Fraternal Government Relations Coalition. Since then, sorority and fraternity members have met with members of Congress each year to discuss pressing issues within the fraternity/sorority community. “Our organizations create a unique community of support. They are the one place on a college campus, where through a shared single-sex experience, young women or men can enjoy a sense of belonging, empowerment and personal development,” says NPC Chairman Carole Jones, Alpha Omicron Pi. The Fraternity Government Relations Coalition represents 92 single-sex fraternities and sororities nationwide, including 800,000+ undergraduate members and 9.1 million alumni. This year, representatives collectively participated in more than 460 meetings with legislative staffs. “We started at 10 a.m. and had meetings about every 30 minutes until 4 p.m.,” said Emily. “Some staffers were pressed for time and offices were a bit small, so we found ourselves often meeting in hallways. Participants not only lobbied for the value of the fraternity/sorority life experience, but also focused on two higher education policy priorities: ensuring that fraternity/sorority members’ freedom of association rights are not being violated by any institution of higher education that accepts federal financial aid and enhancing federal disclosure laws related to hazing, allowing parents and students to be aware of which organization provide a meaningful experience and not one that risks the health and safety of members. Before meetings, participants learned, planned and practiced their talking points. They also heard from Harvard students who have been directly impacted by recent campus sanctions.
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Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly
Executive Director Katie Jolley Abernathy, Brady Smith–Pi Kappa Phi, Emily Buice, Rep. Rodney Davis–Alpha Tau Omega, Andrea Bechtel–Chi Omega stop for a quick photo opp prior to discussing important legislative issues.
“I knew the issues we were advocating for were incredibly important to preserving the sorority and fraternity experience,” said Ana. According to Carole Jones, NPC continues to build support for the Collegiate Freedom of Association Act, END ALL HAZING ACT and the REACH Act. “Our organizations’ values of character and dignity guide our members in their daily lives as they serve their university communities. The value of protecting our single-sex experience and keeping our members safe now and into the future cannot be overstated, and NPC will continue to lead the way in advocating for the sorority experience and the health and safety of our members. “ The value of the sorority experience—the value of the Alpha Gam experience—is critical to so many young women. "When NPC sorority women of all ages unite in one voice for our freedom to associate or for the health and safety of our members it is immensely inspiring, empowering and effective," said Rie. "It takes time, strategy and patience to move legislation through the congressional labyrinth of policy and law creation. It will take all of us, together, to keep focus on our goals to protect our rights as organizations and to insure the health and safety of our members." To learn more about the efforts of the Fraternity and Sorority Political Action Committee, click ® here. To learn more about Emily and Ana’s experience on Capitol Hill, vist the ® Alpha Gam blog.
It's T-shirt time! The Alpha Gam Boutique is your #1 source for Recruitment, Bid Day and custom event apparel. ® alphagamboutique.org
Summer 2019
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Alpha Gam
ACHIEVEMENTS 1. Haley Mowdy, Upsilon–University of Oklahoma, recently represented Baylor Law School where she and her partner won the 2019 National Championship of the American Bar Association's National Appellate Advocacy Competition (NAAC), the largest moot court competition in the nation. Haley was also awarded Best Advocate and Best Speaker. Two hundred law schools competed in six regional rounds of the ABA NAAC and a total of 24 teams were invited to compete in the National Finals. After graduation, Hayley will join Locke Lord LLP's Dallas office as a litigation associate. 2. Christal Garrison Gammill, Delta Theta– University of Idaho, has received a Silver Medal Award from the Idaho Advertising Federation. The AAF Silver Medal Award Program was established in 1959 to recognize those who have made outstanding contributions to advertising and have been active in furthering the industry’s standards, creative excellence and responsibility in areas of social concern. Christal serves as Managing Director for Publicis Boise. 3. Michelle Miller, Gamma Zeta–University of Memphis, was named Collierville Schools' Teacher of the Year and a Pre-K—4 Regional Finalist. She is an interventionist at Bailey Station Elementary in greater Memphis.
Celebrating promotions, achievements, awards and successes of our sisters
1
3
2
4
4. Cindy Hill, Delta Alpha–University of Southern California, was named #1 Commercial Agent Worldwide from Keller Williams Realty International, an award given to the commercial broker with the most closed deals and commission earned in the past year. She also received the fourth highest individual award for highest gross commission income at Keller Williams, including among residential agents. Cindy has worked in the Commercial Real Estate industry for more than 30 years and specializes in the selling of multi-family investments in the San Fernando Valley, Californa area.
Amelia Robinson, Theta Eta–University of Tennessee at Martin, was granted her 7th U.S. Patent, "Method for determining the location, size, and fluid composition of a subsurface hydrocarbon accumulation." A former Research Geologist at ExxonMobil, she is now a teacher and school administrator at The Academy at World Champions Centre in Spring, Texas.
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Tianna Tuamoheloa, Delta Omicron– University of Nevada, Las Vegas, who was crowned Miss Nevada USA 2019 in January, made it into the Top 5 of the Miss USA pageant held in May. A former athlete, she is dedicated to promoting her platform "Healthy Body, Healthy Mind" which supports the maintenance of good mental health through physical activity.
Linda Tucci Teodosio, Omega–University of Akron, was elected by her peers to serve as the next President of the Ohio State Bar Association. Her election will give the OSBA its first all-women officer panel. She previously served as President of the Akron Bar Association and has received several local, state and national honors, including Outstanding Alumna of the University of Akron, the Margaret Clark Morgan Foundation Award for Innovation and the MacArthur Foundation’s “Champion for Change” Award.
Angie Perry Wrublewski, Upsilon–University of Oklahoma, was appointed Director of Supportive Programs for the Chickasaw Nation by Gov. Bill Anoatubby of Oklahoma. A Chickasaw citizen, she has served the Chickasaw Nation for seven years. In her new role, Angie is responsible for providing administrative direction, planning, evaluation, budgeting and supervision for programs supporting education efforts. Angie also serves as Property Advisor for the Upsilon Chapter.
Michaela McLean, Psi–University of Alabama, was named Miss Florida 2019. She will compete in the Miss America pageant in September. Besides the coveted crown, she received $15,000 in scholarship funds. Micheala graduated in May with a double major in dance and public relations. She is the co-founder of the Brave & Beautiful, LLC, which empowers young women to live, love and lead courageously.
Augustina Mills, Zeta Zeta– Worcester Polytechnic Institute, was recently installed as president of the Junior League of Tucson. She is actively involved in mentoring students and with the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers. A graduate of the Greater Tucson Leadership Academy, Augustina is an engineer with Intuit.
Lisa Pavlak Vignerot, Zeta Lambda– University of Findlay. has been named to the university's Board of Trustees. Lisa leads LMV Consulting, which provides IT consulting to a variety of federal government departments, including the executive office of the President, Department of Homeland Security and Department of Justice.
Emily Buice, Beta Eta–Southern Illinois University Carbondale, received the Service to Southern award, SIU's highest honor awarded to a graduating senior who has shown outstanding service to the university. After her May graduation, Emily joined the IHQ staff in Indianapolis as Alumnae Development Specialist.
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Shop alumnae merch and more at
alphagamboutique.org 12 Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly
SHE SAID ALPHA GAM VOLUNTEER POSITION
Chapter Advisor at Delta Rho– Sonoma State University
MOLLY RATTIGAN
CHAPTER & YEAR OF INITIATION
Delta Rho, 1999
MOST REWARDING PART OF ADVISING
I really enjoy following the lives of members after they graduate. Seeing them continue to celebrate and support each other through good times and not-so-good times warms my heart. It’s rewarding to see them thrive in their careers, as mothers, as sisters and as friends. I am fortunate to be a small part of their story. INSPIRED BY
My community. I am fortunate to live in the Napa Valley—we have experienced five natural disasters in five years, including devastating wildfires in 2017. I am continually impressed by the ways my community steps up to help our own. Some of our darkest times have proven to be our finest moments of humanity. ON HER NIGHTSTAND
My 5-year-old and I are working our way though the New York Times list of 100 Best Children’s Books. Oh, and whatever Reese Witherspoon recommends. THE LAST BINGE WATCH
"Dead To Me" on Netflix.
CURRENTLY LISTENING TO
The "Armchair Expert" podcast with Dax Shepard. I recently saw him do a live show in San Francisco. He has an incredible ability to tell a story and converse with guests. GUILTY PLEASURE
The Container Store. It’s a store dedicated to organization and storage solutions. It’s Type A heaven! FAVORITE INDULGENCE
A good cheese plate. ON HER DAY OFF
Spending time with my daughter, Tessa and my husband Nate, exploring the ins and outs of the Napa Valley. If you ever visit, hit me up for insider tips! DREAM JOB
If I weren’t a Deputy County Executive Officer, I would love to host a morning show or a talk show. Top: Enjoying Texas with Delta Rho chapter officers at the 2018 International Convention; Middle: Showing off their best "ugly sweaters" with her daughter and husband; Bottom: A mini-reunion with pledge sisters.
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C Gamma Alpha–University of Georgia, 2018 14 Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly
Caught
The thrills of "no-frills" Primary Recruitment
IN THE RUSH
I REMEMBER IT LIKE IT WAS YESTERDAY. Standing outside the Kappa Alpha Theta house at the University of Oklahoma on that hot morning in the late summer of 1994, I had no idea what to expect as I waited to enter my first round of Primary Recruitment—then called rush. I nearly jumped out of my espadrilles when the thunderous chanting began. A few houses over, I could hear Alpha Gams, who I'd meet later that afternoon, singing at top volume out of every window and door facing Chautauqua Avenue. The following five days were a whirlwind of skits with professionally choreographed dances, impeccably themed decor and songs. So many songs. Now, 25 years later—when I can barely remember what I ate for breakfast—I clearly recall every word Alpha Chi Omega sang when I walked through the door and the one Zeta Tau Alpha crooned as I exited. It was fun, it was stressful, it was “high frills rush”—and it was unlike anything I'd ever experience again. Flash forward a year later to my first “work week,” the week prior to the start of recruitment. Days were spent practicing skits, dances, songs, conversation—even smiling. We tried on and modeled every outfit we’d wear the next week as officers and advisors told us to change our shoes, add a necklace or put a slip on under our skirt. Elaborate sets that would rival that of a community theater production were built for our skits. Nights were spent pouring over slideshow after slideshow, discussing and learning everything we could about the 500 or so
Epsilon–University of Kentucky, 1969.
“rushees” who would soon walk through our doors. It wasn’t until I served on the Volunteer Service Team years later that I saw how much recruitment had changed—and continues to evolve. But the changes didn’t happen overnight. In fact, the National Panhellenic Conference had already begun implementing small changes six years before I witnessed my first doorstack. In 1989, NPC began encouraging its 26 member organizations to tone down the excess and move toward what is now referred to as ® Values Based Recruiting. Summer 2019 15
alpha gam
IN 2019
417
Largest Campus Total
21
Smallest Campus Total
111 6
Largest Chapter Quota
36
Average New Member Class Size
Smallest Chapter Quota
“It had gotten to the point that deciding which sorority you wanted to join had become more about who had the best skit or the prettiest house rather than which group you felt more at home with,” said Amy Vojta, Alpha Kappa–Bowling Green, who serves as Associate Director of Fraternity/Sorority Life at Rutgers University-New Brunswick. “Reducing the frills forced groups to look at and promote what they bring to the table beyond the superficial.” Though met with resistance, NPC implemented guidelines for recruitment budgets, discouraged elaborate decorations and eliminated the gifting of party favors. Instead, they urged its member groups to focus on conversation over alumnae connections and prompted College Panhellenics to ensure these changes were being implemented.
Slowly, skits were replaced with service projects and extravagant PNM wardrobes were traded for matching Panhellenic T-shirts and khaki shorts. Elaborate decorations were swapped for informational banners outlining philanthropic statistics and member obligations. Rushees became Potential New Members—or PNMs for short. And, eventually, conversations focused more on the true value of membership. In other words, less clapping and singing, more talking, learning and connecting. MEMBERSHIP SELECTION In 2003, NPC piloted Release Figure Methodology on 10 campuses. Today, more than 495 campuses use RFM—including 113 where an Alpha Gam chapter is located. RFM is based on a mathematical model to determine the number of invitations issued by each sorority during each round of the recruitment process. Under RFM, chapters with higher rates of return are required to release more PNMs in the early rounds than chapters with lower return rates. This prevents PNMs from being carried along by chapters they have no statistical chance of matching with. Eliminating false expectations allows PNMs to focus on their more viable options and maximizes placement into a group that is best suited for her. It also reduces the amount of women who discontinue the recruitment process. “The RFM framework helps level the playing field for both chapters and PNMs,” said International Vice President–Membership Julie Berger Karstetter, Iota– University of Washington. “It helps more competitive chapters manage their growth while allowing all chapters a better chance to achieve quota.”
Most campuses with fewer than five NPC organizations or with a very small percentage of sorority women hold a minimally structured recruitment that is less formal and often begins with what is known as "tabling," a less formal way for PNMs to learn more about sorority life. Tabletop decor, apparel, Bid Day goodies and a variety of recruitment supplies are available at ®alphagamboutique.org. Today's recruitment events are informational and sometimes hands-on. During philanthropy round at Delta Eta–San Diego State University, PNMs are asked to consider what they can accomplish with a full plate.
16 Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly
According to NPC, PNMs on campuses where RFM is used are matched with their first preference 85 to 95 percent of the time. By 2010, the majority of Alpha Gam campuses were using RFM. Because of this, the Fraternity made changes to the way membership selection is conducted on the chapter level. Today, the process is more objective than it is subjective. “Our membership selection process still takes into account scholarship, student involvement and recommendations, but there is more emphasis on meaningful conversation,” said Julie, who also serves as one of NPC's 66 highly trained RFM Specialists. “In fact, a member is not allowed to vote on a PNM with whom she hasn’t had significant interaction.” Gone are the days of membership selection slide
shows to individually discuss every PNM. In fact, most discussion has been replaced by electronic voting via a secure mobile app called OmegaRecruit. "Once voting has completed, it only takes seconds to generate the invitation list for the next day,” said Julie, who also serves as one of NPC's 66 highly trained RFM Specialists. "The time saved allows members to focus more on the next day’s events and getting a good night’s rest." Electronic voting also reduces the "herd mentality" of voting alongside friends and prevents members from voting on PNMs they have not met. RELEASE FIGURE METHODOLOGY Based on a mathematical model to determine the number of invitations issued by each participating chapter in the recruitment process, RFM is a process by which sororities on a campus are advised of the number of PNMs they need to invite to each round of recruitment in order to match quota. The RFM has three primary goals: 1. Maximize the number of PNMs who ultimately affiliate with a sorority. 2. Allow each PNM to methodically investigate realistic options and ultimately match with a chapter for which she has a preference for. 3. Enable each chapter to invite a sufficient number of PNMs to each event round to match to quota at the conclusion of recruitment. Since its implementation in 2003, the overall number of chapters matching quota or close to it has grown significantly, according to the National Panhellenic Conference. Currently, 113 Alpha Gam chapters are on campuses utilizing RFM.
Another change in Alpha Gam’s selection process is the requirement of a recommendation. While still accepted and helpful when intentionally pairing members and PNMs during recruitment rounds, Recs are no longer a requirement to join Alpha Gamma Delta. This allows members to consider PNMs who may not have previous connections to the fraternity/ sorority community. “The Greek system has long had a reputation for excluding potential new members based on factors such as race and socioeconomic background,” said Kylie Frisby, Upsilon–University of Oklahoma, Assistant Director of Student Life and Panhellenic Association Advisor. “Removing the recommendation requirement allows chapters to make selections based on shared values rather than making sure all of the recommendation boxes have been checked.”
Chapter total—i.e. the ideal chapter size on a particular campus—is determined by the individual College Panhellenic. This number is evaluated and adjusted as needed with the academic year or term. Alpha Gam chapters that have not reached total participate in Continuous Open Bidding. Casual and mostly unstructured, COB allows chapters to extend bids throughout the year until their chapter is at capacity. Regardless of chapter size, Alpha Gamma Delta’s Fraternity Growth Team is dedicated to providing the best resources to assist our chapters in adapting to the ever-changing landscape of sorority recruitment. THE ROLE OF ALUMNAE As I sat on a bale of hay back in 1994 surrounded by gingham-clad Alpha Gams singing songs rewritten to complement the day’s cowboy theme, I had no idea how many alumnae were working behind the scenes. From prepping food and beverages to tallying votes, the number of alumnae needed to pull off a high-frills recruitment was staggering. Today, however, very few alumnae are even allowed on the premises during Primary Recruitment. And, for the most part, there isn’t much an alumna can do to help during the actual recruitment events. At most universities, only current active members, one advisor and one official international/national representative is allowed in the areas where the recruitment round
To allow members to learn more about outstanding PNMs prior to recruitment, collegiate chapter members may submit an Impact PNM form. Impact PMNs may also be identified by their pre-qualification score, which is determined by her resume and/or the information she submitted with her recruitment registration. Slight updates have also been made to our ®legacy policy. In addition to mother, sister and grandmother connections, the step-daughter, step-sister or stepgranddaughter of a member is now considered a legacy of Alpha Gamma Delta. However, it’s important to note that a legacy is not guaranteed an invitation for membership. She must qualify for membership in her own right and be compatible with the chapter. ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL While the most drastic changes in recruitment are more evident at larger universities, sorority life looks different on every campus.
On many campuses, yesterday's matching outfits have been traded for a coordinated, but individual look, as seen above on members from Lambda Delta–Rutgers University. Summer 2019 17
LOOKING FOR WAYS TO HELP YOUR LOCAL CHAPTER DURING POLISH WEEK OR PRIMARY RECRUITMENT? Many area alumnae groups have a private Facebook Group where specific requests are made—or you can use the Chapter Locator to contact the chapter. Here are some advisor-appreciated ways you can help: • Donate food. In cases where Primary Recruitment is held prior to the start of school, members may not have access to their meal plan yet. Often, the Chapter Advisor will coordinate outside snacks and meals or collect money to order food delivery. Even if the chapter is housed in a facility that serves meals, yummy treats are usually welcome. • Participate. If your local chapter holds a mock recruitment, make plans to attend. Members always need new faces to meet and practice conversation skills with. • Volunteer to run errands. The week before Primary Recruitment is a whirlwind. The Chapter Advisor and/or Recruitment Team Advisor probably has a million small errands to run and not enough hours in the day to do them. Ask if there is anything you can do to help, such as picking up food or decorations. • Use your connections. If you or someone you know runs a business in the personal/self-care space, ask the Chapter Advisor if you can donate services. While the schedules for Polish Week and Primary Recruitment are jam packed, a 30-minute yoga class or on-site spray tan appointment can be just what members need. Discounts to vendors for items such as flowers or printed napkins may also be helpful. • Write Recs. While not required, it is very helpful for chapters to have completed Recommendations Forms for each PNM. If you live in a small town where you pretty much know everyone or are in a profession where you know a lot of college-bound women (e.g. teacher, clergy, dance instructor, etc.), let the chapter know you are available to write recs on anyone from a specific location or high school. • Don’t wait. Help is needed all year long. From Initiation and Feast of Roses to philanthropic events and recruitment training, your time, talent and treasure can mean a world of difference to a collegiate chapter. While recruitment week is vital, what happens every other week of the year is what truly sets a chapter up for success during recruitment week! Please remember, a lot of advanced planning and coordination go into Polish Week and Primary Recruitment. Responding to and managing lastminute offers to help can be overwhelming. Reach out to the Chapter Advisor well before crunch time to see how you can be the most helpful—and don’t be upset if you don’t hear back right away. In addition to their chapter duties, most of our advisors have full time jobs and families to balance as well.
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Gamma Delta–Auburn University, 1989
takes place. At universities where a handful of alumnae are permitted in the recruitment area, they are not allowed to actively recruit and must wear name tags of a different color or something else to signify they are not collegiate members. Before offering advice to a PNM based on your personal recruitment story, remember that—even at your own alma mater—the recruitment process is likely different than the one you experienced. It should also be noted that if an alumna violates a recruitment rule, the chapter could face repercussions from the College Panhellenic. Anyone acting on the Fraternity’s behalf is subject to the rules, including those regarding communication with a PNM during Primary Recruitment. WHICH WAY TO SISTERHOOD? When NPC first made strides to remove the frills back in 1989, there’s no way it could have been predicted the move to a more low-key, values-based recruitment would be more in line with the personality traits of Generation Z.
Research shows today's college students seek a more meaningful membership experience; one with personal and professional benefits; one that inspires them to make an impact on the world. I can’t imagine an organization more in line with those values than Alpha Gamma Delta. A lot has changed since I ran home to 930 Chautauqua Avenue on Bid Day, but the hallmarks of the sorority experience are still the same. There is still an emphasis on academic success, philanthropy, leadership development, programming and, of course, social events. The recruitment fanfare may not be as ornate and glittery as it once was, but that isn’t a bad thing. We, as alumnae, need to support our chapters and NPC legislation by embracing today’s recruitment process. After all, it wasn’t the dance moves or decorations that ultimately drew me in. It was the special connection I made with two amazing women—who would later become my sister-mother and big sis— that made my decision to join Alpha Gam so easy. And I’m still so very glad I did.
By Jennifer Freeman Thompson. Jennifer serves as the Marketing Manager for IHQ and editor of the Quarterly. She considers herself lucky to have been a part of two wonderful chapters during her collegiate experience: Upsilon–University of Oklahoma, where she was initiated, and Epsilon Zeta–Arkansas State University, where she later transferred and affiliated.
Alpha Gamma Delta Recruitment Recommendation General Information Name of Potential Member: ______________________________________________________________________________ FIRST PREFERRED NAME MIDDLE LAST Hometown: ____________________________________________________________________________________________ CITY STATE/PROVINCE Attach additional information like a resume, photograph or transcript to this form. If these items are not available, complete the Supplemental Activities Form.
Scholarship Information High School: __________________________________________________________________ GPA or Letter Grade: _______ NAME CITY, STATE/PROVINCE College/University (if applicable): _________________________________________________ GPA or Letter Grade: _______ NAME CITY, STATE/PROVINCE High School Graduation Date: ____________________ College Class: Freshman Sophomore Junior Senior Legacy Information This woman is an Alpha Gamma Delta legacy of an alumna or collegiate member(s) in Good Standing:
Yes
No
If so, please indicate the full name (including maiden name), phone number and email address of this woman’s legacy connections:
Alpha Gamma Delta Legacy Policy • • • •
A legacy is a woman in a family relationship such as a daughter, sister or granddaughter to an AΓΔ member in Good Standing. A legacy must be a qualified potential new member in her own right as well as be compatible with the chapter. A chapter is not required to offer a bid to a legacy. A legacy who falls below the carry line will only be extended a courtesy invite back to the first invitational round of events if she has a Recommendation from a member in Good Standing If a legacy attends Preference or a final function, she must be placed at the top of the chapter’s bid list.
•
Alpha Gamma Delta chapters are not to call a potential new member’s legacy connection upon her release nor are chapters to provide information about the status of a legacy or any other potential new member during recruitment. The Fraternity respects every potential new member’s right to make her own decision and to choose how and when she informs her family and friends. While Alpha Gamma Delta recognizes the value of the legacy relationship, the Fraternity also respects potential new member privacy and each chapter’s confidentiality during the Membership Selection process.
Recommendation Information
Family Greek affiliations (please give organization and relationship to the woman):
Check the box next to your recommendation: Exceptional candidate Good candidate Average/fair candidate Below average candidate/recommend with reservations I do not recommend this woman Please provide specific information explaining the recommendation indicated above including relevant information about the nature of your relationship with the potential new member:
Relationship Information: I have known this woman for ________ years OR I don't know this woman personally, but I spoke with ________________________ on her behalf OR I do not know this woman or anyone who does. If sent to IHQ, this recommendation should be forwarded to ______________ chapter.
Recommender’s Information Name: ________________________________________________________________________________________________ FIRST MAIDEN LAST Address: ______________________________________________________________________________________________ STREET CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP Email Address: _________________________________________________________________________________________ My Chapter/School: _____________________________________________________________________________________ CHAPTER/SCHOOL INITIATION YEAR I am a/an:
Alumna in Good Standing
Collegian in Good Standing
Mail form to the chapter’s campus address, ATTN: Membership Coordinator. Recommendations can also be submitted via email to recommendations@alphagammadelta.org. Make sure to complete and save the form on your computer as a PDF before attaching to the email. Questions? Contact International Headquarters at 317.663.4200. Summer 2019 19
as a blonde HE WOULD'VE LIKED ME BETTER
[THE TRUTH ABOUT INTERNALIZED RACISM] In today’s media, we witness racist beliefs and events happening all around us, including the recent antisemitic gun violence in Pittsburgh and the 2017 shooting in which a gunman opened fire during a Sunday morning service at a predominantly African American church in Charleston, South Carolina. While stories of societal or systemic racism are all too familiar, what is often unspoken is individual encounters of internalized racism and oppression.
20 Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly
I WAS SHOCKED to hear these words spoken by one of my best friends. She believed a failed relationship was due to her race. She thought she was not good enough because she was not white.
Although internalized racism is difficult to overcome, it can be lessened or eliminated. Some strategies include:
Internalized racism occurs when a member of an oppressed group believes the stereotypes created about their group. In other words, an individual who believes the possession of certain physical or cultural traits or membership to a specific makes them inherently inferior.
Realizing you might be suffering from internalized racism can cause shame, embarrassment or hurt, but remember you are not alone. Voicing these insecurities and having someone help you rationalize your way through them can help you heal.
Internalized racism affects the lives of ethnic and racial minorities across North America daily. It represents a harmful consequence of a racially unequal system. As seen through my friend’s comment, internalized racist beliefs can prevent people from pursuing relationships or cause them to blame their race when relationships end. It can hinder them from achieving academic or career goals because they feel they won’t succeed. It can cause an individual to believe that stereotypes and misinformation about their culture are true. As a woman of color, I too have experienced—and continue to experience—internalized racism. Growing up, I was raised in an affluent, primarily Caucasian suburb. I attended private schools where the majority of my peers were white. I have been repeatedly told that I “act white.” This is a flawed idea considering race is not something you act—it is part of your biology. A classmate once told me she was shocked that I was “so much smarter, not ghetto at all and read a lot more books” than the other members of my race she had encountered. This comment affected me in several ways. Firstly, it was a reality check as to how people perceived many people of color. Secondly, I developed an "othering" mentality, which further separated me from the people who fall into this stereotype.
FIND A TRUSTED FRIEND OR MENTOR TO TALK TO
RECOGNIZE WHEN IT HAPPENS
When you hear others—or yourself—making statements that sound like internalized oppression, take time to point it out in a constructive manner and move the conversation away from this harmful narrative.
ASK QUESTIONS—INSTEAD OF MAKING ASSUMPTIONS
For women who are not women of color, consider how you can help mitigate internalized oppression. Through my studies I’ve learned biases and stereotypes are a natural human practice; however, they can be overcome by seeking reliable information on race and/or culture. I encourage you to visit cultural museums or festivals and read literature written by people of color. Developing meaningful relationships with people of other races, ethnicities and cultures can also break down barriers.
REMEMBER INTERNALIZED OPPRESSION ISN’T LIMITED TO RACE
It can occur due to gender, sexuality, ethnicity or even disability. Many individuals across varying racial, ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds frequently experience lower self-esteem, distorted beauty perceptions and self-doubt.
This idea of me acting white further increased when I pledged Alpha Gamma Delta. As sorority members are widely thought of as white middle-to-upper class, women of color are not the automatic association for a sorority girl. Similarly, Alexis Hassanpourtehrani, Vice President–Chapter Wellness at Tau, felt the effects of internalized racism as young as 13-years-old. “I remember talking to a group of my girlfriends and realizing that the oppression of women of color wasn’t just external, but also faced inward,” she said. “This insecurity has followed me like a shadow my entire life. It is very difficult to come to terms with the fact that we are subconsciously conditioned to believe we are lesser.”
Olivia Levy (top center) with some of her Tau–University of Toronto chapter sisters.
Summer 2019 21
Lose something? The Alpha Gam Boutique has a limited number of Badges available for immediate shipment.
"SHE ACTUALLY THOUGHT SHE WAS NOT GOOD ENOUGH BECAUSE SHE WAS NOT WHITE." For anyone experiencing internalized oppression, taking proper steps and giving yourself time to heal can allow you to love the skin you’re in and take pride in who you are. For my fellow sisters of Alpha Gamma Delta of all races, religions and cultures, I encourage you to take pride in the growing diversity within our sisterhood and continue to make the Fraternity a place of love and support. By Olivia Levy. Olivia serves as Vice President–Member Experience at Tau–University of Toronto. In addition to studying sociology and psychology, she is an undergraduate research assistant in sociology/socio-legal studies. Olivia contributes entertainment, mental health, activism and campus affairs content for Her Campus | U Toronto, where she serves as Managing Editor and a version of this article was previously published. Additional editing was provided by Naomi Litwack-Lang, Tau, and the Quarterly editorial staff.
DOING OUR PART Based on recent data from Dyad Strategies, we know the experiences of our sisters often differ based on a member's background—with sisters from underrepresented groups reporting lower feelings of support and belonging than their peers.
Shop replacement badges and more at alphagamboutique.org!
In an effort to ensure all members of Alpha Gamma Delta have a positive and rewarding member experience, the Fraternity’s new Volunteer Service Team structure, revised July 1, now includes a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee. "Issues related to diversity, equity and inclusion are at the forefront of national conversations across the United States and Canada. Our Committee was created to ensure that every current and future member feels welcome and loved," said Committee Chair Andrea Pendleton, Gamma Iota–Mercer University. "We are working to understand more about the experiences of our members, developing training resources and collaborating with other committees and teams to support and improve an inclusive Fraternity member experience for every Alpha Gam." The committee welcomes you to send your ideas and suggestions to àDEICC@alphagammadelta.org.
22 Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly
SISTER PROFILE
The Science of Suds J
ocelyn Havel, Delta Tau–Chapman University, spends most of her week working with molecules and compounds, but the scientific mixtures she creates aren’t kept confined to her laboratory. They are served cold to thirsty customers throughout California’s Bay Area and beyond.
As the quality manager for 21st Amendment Brewery—a Northern California beer maker that is part of the state’s burgeoning craft brew scene—Jocelyn has made her career mixing together two of the things she loves most: science and a good drink. She set out on a traditional path in science that took an unexpected detour after college. Jocelyn started her undergraduate education on the pre-med track, but after spending time working in a hospital realized the medical world wasn’t for her. Still enamored with science, she completed dual degrees in biochemistry and molecular genetics and moved on to her PhD program in chemistry at the University of California, Davis. Despite enjoying her studies, she remained disenchanted with the academic career prospects. “The atmosphere in academia is like a dog fight,” she said. “I loved the science, but I didn’t love [academia]. I felt isolated.” After finishing her master’s degree, Jocelyn decided to forego her doctoral program in favor of taking her scientific background in a somewhat unconventional direction. She began learning how to apply her favorite subject to a hobby: craft beer. She became devoted to teaching herself beer science. After five months of intense studying, and a 9 hour exam, she received her diploma in brewing. Not long after, a friend and manager of one of 21st Amendment’s local brewpubs mentioned the brewery was opening a facility in her neighborhood. On a whim, Jocelyn applied and landed the job. In the four years since receiving the call, Jocelyn has
Jocelyn Havel stands proudly in front of a wall of Brew Free or Die! IPA, one of her many science projects.
worked in nearly every area of the brewery’s production—from brewer to quality analyst, supervisor and now manager. The primary objective of her work in quality control is to try and make every batch of beer taste the same every time it’s brewed. This already difficult task is made more challenging because the raw materials provided to the brewery are never the same. Transforming variable crops into a consistent product often comes with some unexpected and unwanted chemical reactions. This is where Jocelyn’s scientific background comes into play. Her everyday work requires three fundamentals: employing microbiology to keep the fermenting yeast healthy and the beer free of bad microbes, which throw off the taste of the beer; analytical skills to measure the numbers to make sure the beer has the right amount of alcohol, the correct color,
appropriate bitterness and other important compounds; and the sensory to determine and compare each batch of beer to the one before to make sure they taste the same. The stakes of the work are high. Every tank of beer she evaluates is worth half a million in beer sales, and even a small mistake will render a batch useless. But Jocelyn has never been one to shy away from a challenge. She was the only girl on her high school’s wrestling team and now she is only one of the few female production managers in the craft beer scene. She relishes her role applying her critical thinking skills to her work as a beer researcher. “I love that science is a daily part of my life and that I get to work with people who are really smart in ways I wasn’t exposed to before,” she said. “I love being able to see a different side to academics in my work here.”
By Beth Hartnett Jager, Delta Tau–Chapman University. Beth channels her inner Lois Lane for several news outlets in southern California. When not writing, she enjoys serving for Delta Tau and as a board member for the Orange County Alumnae Chapter. Summer 2019 23
HEALTH & VIGOR
POOL QUEUES
E D
verything in the summer is better poolside—even exercise! Aquatic activity can improve flexibility, strength, balance and agility. The benefits can be great for many, including those with arthritis, fibromyalgia, back pain, joint replacements and other conditions that can make exercising a literal pain. There's no need to enroll in a water aerobics class—just grab a pool noodle (and maybe even your favorite sister) and find a body of water that is at least waist-high. SCISSOR KICKS With your back to the side of the pool, place your arms on the edge. Stick your legs out straight and kick them over each other, like you would when doing scissor kicks on land. This move works your glutes, legs and abs. CURLS With palms flattened for resistance, bend your elbows to 90 degrees. Flex your wrists toward the water as if you are lifting a small barbell. Repeat for 3 sets of 10. For even more resistance, try placing children’s arm floaties on your wrists or holding two empty gallon jugs with lids.
ONE LEG BALANCE Stand on your right leg and lift your left knee up to hip level. Place a pool noodle in the middle of your left foot so that it forms a U-shape. Keep your hands by your side and balance for 30 seconds. Switch legs and repeat. For an extra challenge, lift your arms above your head as you balance.
POOL PLANKS Place both hands on a pool noodle and hold it in front of you. Keeping your feet on the pool floor, lean forward into a pushup position while applying your weight to the pool noodle and submerging it underwater. Do not bend at the waist when going forward. Your arms should be downward toward the pool floor. Hold for 15-60 seconds, repeat 3-5 times.
SIDESTEPPING Facing the pool wall, take 20 sidesteps to the right. Then take 20 sidesteps to the left. Repeat twice in each direction.
HIP KICKERS Stand perpendicular to the pool wall so you may use it for support as needed. Kick your right leg forward, to the side and behind you. Repeat 30 times. Turn around so that your right side is closer to the pool wall. Kick your left leg forward, to the side and behind you. Repeat 30 times.
WATER WALKING OR JOGGING Start walking slowly from one side of the shallow end to the next. Once you're warmed up a bit, increase your speed. Alternate jogging and walking for 30 seconds each and continue for five minutes.
DEEP WATER BICYCLE In deeper water, loop two pool noodles around the back of your body to make a U-shape—your back in the center. Rest your arms on top of the noodles for support. Move your legs as if you are riding a bicycle. Continue for three minutes.
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HEALTH & VIGOR
Garden FRESH
For an easy way to make use of your garden's bounty (or your farmer's market haul), this quick and easy dish is sure to be a family favorite.
HONEY GARLIC CHICKEN & VEGGIES INGREDIENTS • 2 lbs. chicken breasts, legs and/or thighs • 16 oz. baby red potatoes • 16 oz. baby carrots
• ½ cup water • 2 cloves garlic, minced • 1 teaspoon dried basil OR 1 tablespoon fresh basil
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano OR 1½ tablespoon fresh oregano
• ½ cup reduced sodium soy sauce*
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 cup honey
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ¼ cup ketchup
DIRECTIONS
NUTRITIONAL INFO
• Combine soy sauce, honey, ketchup, water, garlic, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes and pepper in a large bowl.
• Serving size: ¼ of recipe
• Place chicken, potatoes and carrots into a slow-cooker OR Instant Pot; cover with sauce mixture.
Recipe by Kristin Timken Neusel, MS RD LD CDE, Beta Eta–University of Southern Illinois at Carbondale
• Cover and cook on low heat for 7.5 hours OR high for 3.5 hours in a slow-cooker OR 40 minutes in an Instant Pot.
• Calories: 721 • Fat: 6.6 g • Saturated fat: 1.4 g • Cholesterol: 166 mg • Carbohydrates: 110 g • Protein: 59 g • Sodium: 1194 mg* • Fiber: 6 g Omit soy sauce to reduce sodium
*
Summer 2019 25
PEARLS OF WISDOM
Event Planning 101
W
hether you've been put in charge of planning your next IRD celebration or you're considering having your besties over for the next Alpha Gam Night Out, these think-ahead tips from Fraternity Event Manager Hayley Baker, Gamma Zeta— University of Memphis will help you plan the perfect gathering to celebrate our lasting sisterhood.
• For a larger reunion, gather a committee to support the event. Each person should own one part of the event, such as venue selection, food/beverage, favors/florals and invitations. • Set up a Gmail account that is specific to your organization (e.g. GammaZetaEvent@gmail.com), so your attendees can email with any questions. Keep it vague so it can be passed along and used for future events. • Decide if you will email or mail printed invitations. Websites such as ®PunchBowl, ®Paperless Post or ®Evite provide easy design options and let you track RSVPs. If opting for printed invitations, allow at least two weeks for printing and mail at least a month prior to the event. • When selecting a venue, consider parking and other factors that could impact attendees, such as heavy traffic in the area during the start time of your event. • Check for hidden costs. When looking at a venue's menu, remember that the cost of the item on their menu is not the final price. If you see the symbol ++ next to it, tax and gratuity will be added onto the price shown. If they do not list tax and gratuity in the contract, be sure to ask about it! • Be thorough when signing venue contracts. Look at the food/beverage minimum and determine if you will be able to meet it. For a larger group, most venues will not charge a room rental fee if the food/beverage minimum will be met. Know that if you do not meet the minimum, the venue will charge you the remaining amount. • Creative thinking can help you cut costs and meet your overall budget. For example, your table centerpieces can be a great giveaway or door prize. When thinking of favors, contact the Alpha Gam Boutique and they can help you order a small, branded gift within your budget.
26 Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly
Central Florida Alumnae Club
• Use your network. Work with influential alumnae, local businesses and IHQ to sponsor aspects of your event, such as florals, favors, a cocktail reception or speaker. • Plan a smaller event around Convention. If you're looking to plan a "Girls' Weekend," head to Pheonix for International Convention 2020 and take advantage of discounted group hotel room rates the week prior to Convention and the few days following. This is a great opportunity to spend time with your closest sisters and experience Convention. • Consult the chapter calendar for ideas around gathering in conjunction with a campus event. Game days, IRD, Initiation, Recruitment or Homecoming are all great excuses to road trip to your collegiate chapter and spend the weekend with chapter members old and new. • Take lots of photos! Send your high quality photos to à quarterly@alphagammadelta.org.
OUR 2018-19 GRATITUDE REPORT IS ONLINE!
Your generous donations to the Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation provide scholarships, essential leadership programs and grants to fight hunger in our communities. That's why we created this Gratitude Report—to acknowledge those who have so selflessly given and share stories of the impact those gifts have made on the lives of our sisters.
Click the screen above to view online or visit ® alphagammadeltafoundation.org to learn more.
Because of members like you, the Alpha Gam Foundation's inaugural Day of Giving was an unbelievable success! In just 1904 minutes, our sisters and supporters came together to raise more than $113,000 in support of women's education, leadership and philanthropy. ® Learn more in our 2018-19 Gratitude Report.
Summer 2019 27
coming soon
Meet the 2019-2020 Leadership Consultants in the Fall issue—or at a chapter near you
28 Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly
Denim jacket and more available at
alphagamboutique.org Spring 2019 29
FRATERNITY HOUSING CORPORATION
Open
HOUSE
SHOWCASING CHAPTER SPACES DURING RECRUITMENT
Our chapters are more than just sororities. They are the place you meet your best friends, try new things, gain valuable leadership experience, prepare for future careers and make lasting memories. These experiences define your membership and engage potential new members during the recruitment process. The FHC knows that a house doesn’t make a chapter; experiences do. That’s why we aim to provide chapter spaces that foster growth, pride and sisterhood—all while serving as a home away from home.
FHC facilities are designed to be comfortable and attractive places where sisters want to hang out and spend time together. Recruitment Talking Point: Share a story about some of the most special memories you have made in the house to help PNMs picture themselves making similar memories.
30 Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly
All Alpha Gam FHC spaces feature similarly-themed colors, lettered items, historical images and other elements unique to Alpha Gamma Delta. Recruitment Talking Point: When walking by a Purpose wall or your chapter’s charter, take an opportunity to talk about what this lifelong commitment means to you.
Beta Delta–Indiana University Bloomington
FHC homes have a desk and chair for every live-in member as well as combination of tables and comfortable furniture to accommodate the different study environments our members need. Recruitment Talking Point: When in your chapter’s study space ask the PNM how and where they prefer to study. There is likely a sister who is a night owl or prefers quiet study in her own space, too!
Lambda Delta–Rutgers State University of New Jersey Upsilon–University of Oklahoma Theta Epsilon–University of South Alabama
Whether hosting a philanthropy event in the dining room or working with the kitchen staff to donate leftovers to a local shelter or soup kitchen, Alpha Gam’s mission to contribute to the world’s work starts at home. Recruitment Talking Point: Discuss how the chapter uses the facility as a base from which to host events that serve the community. Ask PNMs what types of community service they are passionate about. Gamma Beta–Florida State University
A lot of research goes into FHC spaces to make sure they are competitive with other sorority facilities on campus. Recruitment Talking Point: Mention how you personally use custom spaces in your home, such as a gym, craft space or coffee bar.
Summer 2019 31
CHAPTER GRAND Beta
Alpha Gamma
Gamma Epsilon
Delta
Alpha Delta
Gamma Zeta
University of Wisconsin-Madison Lois Lawson Zabel 1946 University of Minnesota Mari Wiest Johnson 1984
Epsilon
University of Kentucky Davis Lowery Gardner 1946
Zeta
Ohio University Ruth Hopkins Pack, 1942 Betty Lou Kennedy Baker 1944
Eta
DePauw University Joanne Adams Stout 1953 Constance Marks Matlock 1968
Lambda
University of Cincinnati Janice Emig Stephens 1961 Ohio Wesleyan University Elsbeth Murphy Laurien 1935 Margaret Rushong Earley 1955 Victoria Ellen Carter 1973
Alpha Epsilon
Westminster College Nancy May Crawford 1947 Linda Gillie Flohr 1959
Alpha Eta
Dalhousie University Jessie Morrison Churchill-Smith 1946
Alpha Kappa
Bowling Green State University Magdalyn Laibe Casper 1948
Northwestern University Blanche Gregory Gangwere 1937 Elizabeth Smith Almon 1941
Alpha Omicron
Mu
Beta Beta
Brenau University Lulu Tankersley Harwell 1938 Hilda Kimsey Walker 1943
Rho
Iowa State University Jane Steele Bigbee 1950
West Virginia Wesleyan College Mildred Thornton Lindley 1961 North Dakota State University Doris Dean Martin 1945 Susan Thorkelson Peterson 1959
Beta Gamma
University of Manitoba Joan Fleming Anders 1944
Tau
Beta Delta
Upsilon
Beta Kappa
University of Toronto Pamela Cowie Gray 1949 University of Oklahoma Mary Bridal McKaig 1947 Patricia Richardson Snider 1947 Dorothy Skinner Elliott 1953 Margaret McConnell Swimmer 1963
Phi
Oregon State University Jean Fulton McDowell 1942
Chi
Michigan State University Eleanor Furnival Westcott 1942
Omega
University of Akron Marjorie Hoover Good 1939
Alpha Beta
University of Michigan Eleanor Benner Ullrich 1945 Gloria Skidmore Olin 1951
32 Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly
Indiana University Bloomington Madolyn Minot Milan 1954 University of Iowa Joyce Killay Patton 1987
Beta Xi
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Nancy Curtis Bormann 1949 University of Memphis Rena Mitchell Manning 1947
Gamma Eta
High Point University Martha Collins 1975
Delta Beta
Washington State University Megan Allen Tracy 2001
Delta Gamma
Montana State University Sonvy Brenden Sammons 1962 Linda Bartels Kocher 1965
Delta Theta
University of Idaho Christine Anne Tolmie 1997
Epsilon Alpha
University of Missouri Lorna Longwell Johnson 1953
Epsilon Epsilon
William Jewell College Esther Thornton Glover 1965
Epsilon Zeta
Arkansas State University Alice Cochran Gregory 1949 Jolene Helms Lamb 1952 Mary Jane Smith Van Slyke 1960
Epsilon Mu
Fort Hays State University Gayla Clapp Amend 1983
Epsilon Nu
Purdue University Julia Angle 2008
University of Central Oklahoma Linda Frick Ferguson 1962 Michelle Cornelius 1969
Gamma Alpha
Zeta Sigma
University of Georgia Marian Chesnut McCullers 1944 Marguerite Mintz Jacobs 1945
Gamma Beta
Florida State University Helen Miller Lester 1944 Phyllis Reindel Hoffman 1945
Gamma Delta
Auburn University Mary Ann Herren Williams 1939 Jean DeLaBar Harris 1946
Northwood University Melissa Ann Tracy 2007
Theta Psi
Austin Peay State University Kenna Gupton Robards 2011
Theta Omega
University of South Carolina Samantha Lee Josephson 2015 The Fraternity extends sincere condolences to family and friends of these members. This list includes notices received from March 1, 2019 through May 31, 2019.
Last
LOOK
We received this heartfelt tribute from Robert F. Gunn of Cincinnati to his "Alpha Gamma Sweet Heart" Patricia Werner Gunn, Beta Delta–Indiana University Bloomington. Thank you for sharing this with us, Robert. Best wishes to you both! Summer 2019 AG
Alpha Gamma Delta Fraternity 8710 N. Meridian St. Indianapolis, IN 46260 alphagammadelta.org
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