Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly • Winter 2009

V O L U M E C , No. 1

W I N T E R 2009

Alpha Gam on the RACHAEL RAY Show, page 8

Living a Balanced Life, page 10

x

behind our signatures

V O L U M E C, No. 1

WINTER 2009

2

2

16 24

16 24

Behind Our Signatures What does your membership in Alpha Gamma Delta mean to you? Alpha Gams share their stories of challenge and achievement and how sisterhood guided them along the way.

2008–2009 Foundation Scholars Meet the 2008–2009 Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation scholarship recipients.

Stephannie Sack Bailey Named Executive Director Learn more about Stephannie and her dedication to Alpha Gamma Delta Fraternity.

In every issue …

Inside Cover 8 10 14 16 22 26 28

Viewpoint Collegiate News Alumnae News Chapter Grand From the Foundation Fraternity Happenings Directory EndNotes

In the wake of a new calendar year and new beginnings, I recently reflected upon what my membership in Alpha Gamma Delta means to me. As the feature article in this issue mentions, we are all affected, in some manner, by our Fraternity and its sisters. Throughout my membership in Alpha Gamma Delta, I have grown more than I ever imagined. It is very safe to say that as an 18-year-old collegian, I did not expect to be fulfilling the role of International President! I could not be where I am today without the support of my sisters, helping me each step along the way.

As I continued to think about the meaning behind Alpha Gamma Delta membership, one word that frequently came to my mind was investment. We all need to invest in our Fraternity, whether with our time, our talents or our treasures. Due to the difficult economic times, we are facing some financial hurdles; however, just as we lean on our sisters in times of need, we can all work together to provide more resources to the Fraternity.

One way to achieve sustained Fraternity growth is by paying your alumnae dues. Your support of $35 helps pay for recruitment and extension efforts, publishing the Quarterly and other vital Fraternity programs. This is an easy investment opportunity for you to give to Alpha Gamma Delta’s future. Review the back cover of the magazine to find out how you can support the Fraternity with your alumnae dues payment.

Please support the Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation so it can continue to fund Fraternity programs, such as the Leadership

Consultant/Advisor program, The Leadership Conference, collegiate programming that addresses issues such as alcohol use, date rape, anti-hazing initiatives and other real life situations. The Foundation gives back to sisters in need by providing SIS grants and scholarships. The support for diabetes research and education along with The Leadership Institute–Women with Purpose, Inc., assists the Fraternity in fulfilling our Purpose to contribute to the world’s work.

On behalf of the Fraternity, we are grateful for members’ generous contributions to our sisterhood via the Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation. Your heartfelt gifts to build and foster growth of the Fraternity are truly phenomenal. Please consider a gift to the Foundation as a perpetual investment to your sisterhood.

Have you made the investment to develop and prize health and vigor of body? A new year is a perfect time to make the commitment to healthy living. Take care of yourself as Ann Cassada Quasman encourages us to do on page 11! Sign up to Defeat Diabetes One Step at a Time as we virtually walk 1,000 miles with our sisters prior to Convention 2010.

Another way to invest in our Fraternity is by giving your time and talents. No matter if you are available twice a week, twice a month or twice a year, every volunteer is a vital resource for Alpha Gamma Delta. Chapters and alumnae groups need your participation. Volunteer Service Team appointments for the 2009–2011 biennium will be completed this spring. Visit the Fraternity website for more information about available vol-

unteer positions and to download a volunteer application.

Invest in Alpha Gamma Delta by spreading goodwill about the Fraternity to unaffiliated women.

Encourage high school and college women to consider Greek life at college. Be sure to mention Alpha Gamma Delta when you talk to them! The National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) has unveiled a new website, thesororitylife.com. This new website encourages unaffiliated women to engage in Greek life—Share this with them. Just as we need involvement on the collegiate level, we also need more investment in Alumnae Panhellenics. Review page 23 to see where Alpha Gamma Delta needs representation in Alumnae Panhellenics.

Many thanks to Penny Yocum Edmondson, past International Vice President-Alumnae, for her unwavering support of Alpha Gamma Delta as she served as Interim Executive Director of the Fraternity. Please welcome Stephannie Sack Bailey as the new Executive Director! Her vision for the Fraternity will help us achieve steady growth. Get to know more about Stephannie on page 24 and by visiting the Fraternity’s website.

I encourage each of you to reflect upon your Fraternity membership; anticipate the dividends gained from your gift of time, talent and treasure. With everyone investing in our Fraternity, our returns will surely continue to grow!

Jackie Brannon Stutts International President

Assistant Director of Communications Jill Lewman Graphics/Web Coordinator Elizabeth Hoover

www.alphagammadelta.org

Member, Fraternity Communications Association

The Quarterly is published four times per year at 8701 Founders Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46268. Send all correspondence to International Headquarters, 8701 Founders Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46268.

When sending marriage or death announcements, please send duplicate information to your collegiate chapter or alumnae chapter/club so accurate records may be kept.

The Quarterly welcomes editorial submissions from freelance writers. Issues focus on themes, so please contact the Communications Department for guidelines, deadlines and additional information.

The Quarterly Magazine Mission The Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly Magazine endeavors to: • Serve as a forum of communication to inspire, educate and challenge members on Fraternity, Greek and women’s issues.

• Rekindle, sustain and excite member loyalty and interest through celebrating and validating sisterhood and recognizing and acknowledging individual and chapter/club accomplishments.

• Serve as a permanent record and archive, documenting the Fraternity.

Lean On Me Coming Up...

Alpha Gams Going Green!

What does “going green” mean to you? Has your chapter or club made an effort to implement responsible environmental decisions? Do you work in a field that encourages being environmentally friendly? If so, share your stories with the Quarterly staff by e-mailing quarterly@alphagammadelta.org.

We Need You! Share your ideas and stories. Call our office at 317-872-2655 or e-mail quarterly@alphagammadelta.org.

On the Web Fraternity’s Financial Statement The Fraternity’s financial statement has been published on the Member Services section of the Fraternity website. Visit www.alphagammadelta.org to view this statement. For help with logging on to Member Services, e-mail webmaster@alphagammadelta.org.

By Lee Watts, Theta Delta– North Georgia College and State University

There will be days when the sun won’t shine When every step is in the wrong direction And no word comes out right.

These are the days to lean on me.

There will come a time when confusion takes over When the world has overwhelmed you And you feel alone.

These are times to come to me.

There will also be times of great joy When laughter fills our world And everything falls into place.

These are the moments you share with me.

We will not lose each other in passing time.

We stand together over thousands of miles Bonded by an unspoken connection.

There will come a time when we are left without words Left without sign or badge And yet, I will know you as you will me.

This is the moment when all the tears and laughter And the love and fears combine To create a single moment that all sisters Know lights their way home.

Poem by Lee Watts, Theta Delta Chapter

28

x

behind our signatures

Think about how many times you’ve signed your name and the reasoning behind each penned signature. Often, signatures indicate significant life milestones—a birth certificate, a home loan and a marriage license, to name a few. A signature is a symbol of your commitment, your stamp of approval and an official record regarding a particular situation. When you signed your name as an official sister of Alpha Gamma Delta, what was going through your mind? As a collegian, perhaps you signed your name without a serious thought, assuming it was a fun, four year extra-curricular activity. Or perhaps you were eager to start a lifelong journey with a group of women you could call family. Whatever the case, there is no doubt that the signature solidifying your Alpha Gam membership has had a significant impact on your life.

Unfortunately, some Alpha Gamma Delta sisters have experienced traumatic circumstances in their lives. Thankfully, others have experienced great joy. No matter the situation, these Alpha Gams truly understand the significant meaning behind their commitment to Alpha Gamma Delta and are willing to share their stories of challenge, triumph and sisterhood emanating throughout all of life’s unexpected circumstances.

2

x words cannot explain how i feel to be a part of alpha gam

x

overcoming challenges

Put yourself in the following situations. You’ve been diagnosed with a major illness. You’re alone in a new city. How do you overcome these obstacles and live a happy life? It’s simple; call on the women who committed to support you—your Alpha Gamma Delta sisters. When Rachael Swann Koontz, Theta Iota–Western Kentucky University, was 28 years old and 29 weeks along in her pregnancy, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Although Rachael is now thankfully cancer-free, when she initially heard the bad news, she was devastated. Immediately, her Alpha Gam sisters outpoured their encouragement and support. When Rachael came home from the hospital after delivering her son four weeks early, she was relieved to find that several of her sisters had flowers, cards, blankets, baby clothes, bottles and diapers ready for her at her home. “To know that they had thought ahead and helped prepare everything was so nice,” says Rachael. At International Reunion Day, they made an announcement about Rachael’s situation and she received over 100 cards from Alpha Gam sisters that she didn’t even know personally. Her sisters also got together a Relay For Life team partly in honor of her and they supported her when she participated in the Race for the Cure last October. Throughout all of her collegiate years and beyond, Rachael has been thankful for the loving support of her sisters. “Our sorority sisters are our closest friends,” says Rachael. “It is truly a bond that will last a lifetime. I can’t imagine not having these women and their families in my life and I know the other women feel the same.”

x women need each other

Allison McDonald, Delta Nu–University of Calgary, also connects with her sisters, but in a different way—through her website, www.NoTimeForFlashCards.com. When Allison moved to Seattle, Washington from Canada, she felt isolated and alone.

Not knowing any Alpha Gams in the area and being a stay-at-home mom, Allison needed an outlet from the sometimes difficult, tedious conditions of motherhood. She used her teaching background to start a website, No Time for Flash Cards, where she records educational and crafty activities she does with her son. “I want to show people that young kids can do all of these things,” says Allison. Her website, which launched a year ago, receives about 1,500 hits per day. Through the website, she has re-connected with several Alpha Gam sisters, who praise her for her efforts. “It’s wonderful to hear [positive feedback] from people that mean so much,” says Allison.

The goal of Allison’s website is to unite mothers and show them that children of all ages can participate 3

x my sisters are there to lean on

in fun, educational activities. It also provides moms with a support network. “Becoming a mom changed a lot of things,” says Allison. “It made me realize how much women need each other.” In addition to connecting with other moms on the website, Allison maintains contact with sisters through her website and the popular social networking tool, Facebook.

“As an alumna, I don’t need to see [my sisters] every lunch or have to hang out with them after every [chapter] meeting,” Allison says. “But just getting a heartfelt note or congratulating them on the birth [of their child] really matters…It connects me even though I don’t go to meetings or I’m not actively involved as an alumna.”

x

x we stand by each other in times of struggle

helping a hurting sister We’ve all had a time when we were supported by a sister. Our Purpose encourages us to “cherish friendships but with a chosen few and to study the perfecting of those friendships.” How do we follow the guidelines of the Purpose to support our sisters in troubling times? Melissa Barber, a college student from Alpha Kappa–Bowling Green State University, is very appreciative of her sisters who support her as she battles a difficult illness. As a young woman with cerebral palsy, Melissa struggles with her physical, motor and speech skills. It may take a little longer for her to get ready for class, but Melissa relies on optimism and her sisters to help her get through challenging situations. One of these challenging moments was when she attended LeaderShape, an educational conference designed to inspire, develop and support more people to lead with integrity.

Although there were more physical activities than Melissa realized, the staff was accommodating and she really felt involved in the experience. Two of Melissa’s chapter sisters attended LeaderShape along with her. “Going into LeaderShape, I didn’t know what to expect but it was nice to have my sisters there to lean on if I needed any help,” says Melissa.

By simply being there for her while she attended LeaderShape, Melissa felt at ease, which made her confident and willing to complete all of the fun and educational activities.

For Melissa, sisters providing words of encouragement and assistance when needed allows her to live each day to its fullest. For Stephanie Mazzatenta, Gamma Beta–Florida State University, a former victim of sexual abuse and violence, she knows how it feels to be a hurting sister. Stephanie was a very involved campus leader—a member of honor societ-

4

ies, a club sports team and several Alpha Gam officer roles—but her life was spiraling out of control.

As a result of sexual abuse, Stephanie gradually lost her friendships, her ability to excel academically and almost her position on Executive Council for Alpha Gamma Delta. To help Alpha Gams who want to reach out to a troubled sister but aren’t sure where to begin, Stephanie has developed several recommendations and advice to ease this sister’s pain.* If a sister is shying away from social situations, sleeps all day, involves herself in reckless behavior or neglects her usual involvement in activities, Stephanie says that is a sign she may need your help.

By simply asking the sister how she is doing or if something is wrong, no matter how difficult that may be, that will help you get to get to the bottom of the situation. “Let her cry, let her get angry, just as long as she gets it out,” suggests Stephanie.

Once you get up the courage to ask, it is likely that your sister will be venting to you and you might not know what to say next. That’s fine; Stephanie says the less you say, the better. She just needs to know you’re listening. Don’t judge her or scrutinize her for what she’s saying and don’t interrupt her when she’s talking.

x

celebrating achievements There is no doubt that sometimes life can be challenging; thankfully, there are special moments that make life meaningful. As Alpha Gamma Deltas, many of us share these special moments with our sisters. Through marriages, babies, divorces, deaths and cancer scares, Rebecca (Becky) Auer Gomes and her chapter sisters from Alpha Tau–Edinboro University of Pennsylvania have sustained deep friendships, long after their college years. Little did Becky know that over 20 years after signing her bid card, she would still be extremely close to her sisters. As collegians, Becky and her chapter sisters spent a lot of their time together, participating in Greek Week, juvenile diabetes events for the Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation and social events. Each year that went by brought them closer and closer together; as a result, meaningful and trusting friendships were formed. Today, Becky and her sisters, about eight or nine of them in total, communicate primarily through e-mail; they send out e-mails for special notices, like engagements or birthday celebrations. Their goal is to get together at least once per year. On Becky’s

x alpha gams are my family

After your sister is finished telling you her problems, Stephanie says the best thing to do is be positive and ensure her that she is a great sister and friend.

“Pointing [her strengths] out will help her to realize the positive attributes of herself that she may have forgotten,” says Stephanie.

It’s important to keep checking in on your sister to make sure she is doing well and to take initiative in her recovery. “Don’t just make a vague suggestion; give her concrete information about where to go,” recommends Stephanie. Do some research; gather information relating to her problem and give her phone numbers of licensed professionals who can help her sort through her problems. Many colleges and universities have counseling centers that provide free or minimally priced assistance. Don’t just leave her to figure out the answers for herself; play an active role in her recovery.

*Editor’s note: Please remember that each situation and each sister is different, so be sure to gain advice from licensed professionals if you aren’t sure what to do regarding a particular situation.

5

x sisterhood got me through it

45th birthday, for example, the women had a casinothemed party, and the sisters traveled from as far as Ohio and even Phoenix to attend. For someone who doesn’t have a big family, Becky is appreciative of the support she receives from her sisters. “I feel like [my sisters] are my family,” Becky says. “I could ask them to do anything and they would drop everything and come if I needed them to…I think that’s just the camaraderie we built up at Edinboro with the Alpha Gams.” Through divorce and a child with cystic fibrosis, Becky’s Alpha Gam sisters have provided her with unwavering support and comfort.

A more recent college graduate, Melissa Voynich, Gamma Iota–Mercer University, has become best friends with her chapter sister, Alex Meade. They laughed together through the good times, supported each other through the bad, and now will be the maid of honor in each other’s weddings. During spring vacation her senior year of college, Melissa’s father unexpectedly passed away; Alex and other Alpha Gams dropped everything for Melissa, bringing her flowers, stuffed animals and emotional support.

“Alex and I have been best friends for about six years and I don’t see that changing any time soon— even if we are far apart [geographically],” says Melissa. Without committing to Alpha Gam as a collegian and having a network of loving sisters, it would have been even more difficult for Melissa to graduate from college on time. “Sisterhood is what got me through those last few months at Mercer,” Melissa recalls. “…Without the support of my sisters, I don’t know if I would have been able to go back and finish classes to graduate in May 2006. I did go back, and I walked at graduation; Alex even celebrated with my family afterward!”

x i took so much strength from her

x

unexpected encounters Many alumnae still communicate with our chapter sisters, but a few find a special sister in the most unlikely place. Take Allison Steele Sandor, Beta Delta–Indiana University, and Trish Ames Lannon, Zeta Delta–Towson State University, for example. Both of these women signed their bid cards at completely different Alpha Gam chapters and they vary about a decade in age; however, one illness brought them together: colon cancer. Trish and Allison were scouring the internet for information about colon cancer when they found The Colon Club, a support group intended for people under age 50 who have been diagnosed with colon cancer. Every year, The Colon Club produces a calendar, The Colondar, which features the stories of individuals

6

x we had an instant bond of understanding

who have battled colon cancer. Before they knew it, Allison and Trish were on a plane to upstate New York to be models for the calendar. “Allison and I bonded right away,” recalls Trish. They continued talking, and when college life came up, they both found out that they were Alpha Gams. “We had this instant bond of understanding that we both battled colon cancer,” says Allison. “And then to find out that we were sorority sisters made it all that more special.” Trish and Allison continue to share e-mails and Facebook messages, keeping each other updated on medical progress and their personal lives.

As Alpha Gams, little did we know that when we signed up for Alpha Gamma Delta as a young adult that we would be positively affected by sisterhood throughout the rest of our lives. We get older each year and our lives continue to evolve; however, one factor remains constant: our Alpha Gamma Delta sisters are always there for us, in good times and in bad.

x

what’s the story behind your signature?

The Quarterly staff wants to hear from you! Tell us why you joined

Alpha Gamma Delta and feel free to share your stories of sisterhood in times of challenge and in times of great achievement. The Quar-

terly staff will post the stories on the Fraternity website at http://www. alphagammadelta.org/NewsAndEvents/theQuarterly.html. E-mail your stories to quarterly@alphagammadelta.org or call 317-827-2655.

Check out the website for more information!

7

collegiate news

Can You Cook?

Alpha Gam Perfects Culinary Craft on the RACHAEL RAY Show

A

big smile beams across her face as Madison Mayberry, Rho-Iowa State University, is named the winner of the “Hey Can You Cook?! 3” challenge. A part of the Emmy winning RACHAEL RAY show, “Hey Can You Cook?! 3” is a reality competition where five select cooks from across the country face off in a series of unique cooking challenges. The youngest contestant to ever to compete on the show, Madison completed each challenge with confidence and determination.

In order to apply for the show, each hopeful contestant must submit a video preparing a culinary dish. Madison decided to videotape her submission in the Alpha Gam kitchen at Iowa State. Before she knew it, the RACHAEL RAY show camera crew was at her Alpha Gam home. “One of the [video] clips showed me and my [Alpha Gam] sisters hanging out, so it was nice for them to be a part of the experience,” says Madison.

From preparing popular snacks at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, to cooking international fare on Ellis Island in New York, Madison successfully made it through five grueling rounds of culinary competition. In the final challenge, Madison competed against a 41 year old real estate agent from New Jersey, and the two finalists were charged with making a dish from Thanksgiving leftovers. Madison’s potato turkey pancake, squash mash and sweet pea gravy with apple and pear sauté was a big hit with surprise guest judge Jamie Oliver, and he declared Madison the winner of “Hey Can You Cook?! 3.”

As the winner of “Hey Can You Cook?! 3,” Madison won a kitchen facelift with professional Viking® appliances and Silestone® counter-tops, which she gave to her mother. Also, Madison and a guest will travel to Paris, France in June, where Madison will participate in a culinary training program at Le Cordon Bleu®. Finally, Madison appeared on the RACHAEL RAY show and cooked black tie chicken cordon bleu and pasta with pumpkin cream sauce. Madison’s recipe will be featured in the Every Day With Rachael Ray magazine.

Cooking has always been one of Madison’s interests, and she looks to her mother and the Food Network for helpful tips and crafty cooking ideas. “From cooking with my mom to cooking things for my friends, I just love to be in the kitchen,” says Madison.

Check out Madison on the RACHAEL RAY Show at www.rachaelrayshow.com/heycanyoucook3.

8

As a charismatic, optimistic and well-spoken 21-year-old, there’s no doubt that Madison will have a lot of bright opportunities on her plate in the future.

collegiate news

A Warm Welcome Alpha Gams Welcome NFL Player Back to Campus

H

omecoming 2008 is a sweet memory for the Alpha Gamma Delta sisters at Gamma Alpha Chapter at the University of Georgia, as current NFL Atlanta Falcons player and former University of Georgia quarterback D.J. Shockley stopped by the chapter house for a visit.

As a part of a series called Welcome Back D.J. that airs on Comcast On Demand in Atlanta, D.J. visited with the University of Georgia fans, cooked hamburgers, chatted with his former coach and visited the Alpha Gam chapter house.

Before taping the show, D.J. had never visited a sorority chapter house at the University of Georgia. “For D.J. to want to come to our [chapter] house was incredible,” says Jenna Harrison, Philanthropy Coordinator for Gamma Alpha Chapter.

D.J. visited with the Alpha Gams, talked about football with them, learned recruitment songs and even judged a dance competition. Word spread quickly, and members of other Greek organizations on campus also came to the Alpha Gam chapter house to meet D.J. The opportunity to have D.J. visit the Alpha Gams came from Colleen Sullivan,

an alumna from Beta Delta Chapter at Indiana University. Colleen is the Production Manager for CSS-Comcast/Charter Sports Southeast, and when she knew that D.J. was coming back to the University of Georgia campus to tape a Homecoming show, visiting the Alpha Gamma Delta chapter house immediately came to her mind.

Alpha Gams at the University of Georgia were so welcoming and personable that each Welcome Back D.J. show begins with the Alpha Gams standing in front of their porch cheering, “Welcome Back D.J.!”

Meeting D.J. and spending a few hours with him was truly the hallmark of their fall semester. “It was an amazing experience,” Jenna says. “Everyone was excited to have him there.”

Top left: Colleen Sullivan (left) and Rebekah Martin (right) pose with D.J. Shockley.

Top right: Atlanta Falcons NFL player D.J. Shockley in action.

Bottom right: D.J. Shockley interacts with an Alpha Gam from Gamma Alpha Chapter.

9

alumnae news

Y Only Five Minutes Alpha Gam Teaches Women to Live with Their Hearts

10

alumnae news

Y

“You have nothing to give if you don’t take care of yourself.”

A s Alpha Gamma Deltas, we are all talented, hardworking women. Whether we are an 18 year old collegian, an 80 year old alumna or something in between, we all have one common challenge: achieving life balance. Ann Cassada Quasman, Gamma Mu–James Madison University, has been in our shoes before. As a college freshman, Ann was in a terrible car accident, which led her to have chronic pain and take prescription painkillers for over 20 years. She was tired of working in the corporate financial world, she was frustrated with being in so much physical pain and she was letting her mind control her life. She started doing body techniques and focusing within herself; within one year, Ann was free of chronic pain.

Now, Ann lives each day with her heart as a guide.

Achieving Balance. Ann’s experience of struggling to achieve life balance led her to reach out to other women like us.

She is the founder of Living In Your Heart, LLC—a company that provides workshops to women in the Maryland and suburban D.C. area. Through a variety of self-care techniques and introspective exercises, Ann teaches women to live life with awareness and intention. “Regardless of the situation, all women have the same concerns,” Ann says. “We all want to be loved, to feel safe, to feel comfortable.” Ann encourages women to identify and release the emotional and energetic “stuff” that keeps them from living their desired life. When women are ready to make a significant, positive change in their lives, Ann is there to help them start living the life they want to live.

Throughout Ann’s workshops, she uses a variety of techniques— Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), Behavioral Kinesiology, Various Meditation Techniques and Creative Visualization, to name a few—to help others take charge of their lives. In a fourweek, women-only intensive workshop called There’s a Pony in Here Somewhere, Ann helps each participant get acquainted with themselves using introspective techniques. In her Intro to the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) and her R & R (Recharge and Renew) classes, both women and men learn how to manage stress and become centered within themselves.

Talking About It.

Along with her longtime friend, Ginny Robertson, Ann co-hosts a weekly talk radio show called WomanTalk Live. Airing on Talkradio 680 WCBM in Baltimore, Maryland, WomanTalk Live covers all aspects of a woman’s life.

From professional work challenges and excess weight to chronic health issues and relationship problems, no topic is left out of the picture. “Our topics…are interesting to women of all ages,” Ann says. To showcase young women in Maryland who are making a significant impact in their communities, WomanTalk Live hosts an annual scholarship essay contest, called Girls Gone Great.

The contest is open to Maryland high school juniors and seniors; the winner receives a $1,000 scholarship, a guest appearance on the radio show, an article in On Purpose Woman Magazine, an awards luncheon and a bag of goodies. In addition to Girls Gone Great, WomanTalk Live supports women serving in the military by collecting toiletries, food, and other items and sending them overseas.

Focusing Within.

Regardless of our age or life situation, Ann encourages all of us to take time to focus on ourselves. “The hardest thing in the world is to tell people you have to make time for yourself, but you have to,” Ann urges. “It’s not an option.”

Even if it’s five minutes, Ann assures that by getting grounded and centered, we will be on the road to a healthy physical and emotional life. In addition, if we are happy with our lives, then we will reach out to others in a positive way. “You have nothing to give if you don’t take care of yourself,” says Ann. It only takes five minutes. Whether it’s when you wake up in the morning, when your child is taking a nap or before you go to bed at night, only five minutes will take you to a heightened sense of self awareness and start you on the road to emotional and physical recovery.

Learn More Online: Living In Your Heart, LLC www.LivingInYourHeart.com WomanTalk Live Radio www.WomanTalkLive.com 11

alumnae news

All the Way to the Top Former Leadership Consultant Makes Mark in Pharmaceutical Industry

Left: Anne Clem Whitaker, Gamma Psi-University of North Alabama Above: Anne spends time with her husband, Trampas.

Right: Anne poses with her two sons, Chad and Mason.

W

orking her way from a pharmaceutical sales representative to Senior Vice President of Global Leadership and Organizational Development for GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), Anne Clem Whitaker, Gamma Psi–University of North Alabama, knows what it takes to achieve success. She was a vice president before age 30, one of the first female Business Unit Heads in the United States for GSK and featured in Working Mother magazine for her ability to manage a career and family.

A campus and Alpha Gam leader in college, Anne decided to become a Leadership Consultant for Alpha Gamma Delta after graduation. Having never flown in an airplane before, Anne quickly embraced traveling across the country and learning about different types of people. “[The Leadership Consultant program] made me realize that there is a real world out there that I wanted to see and that moving around was okay,” Anne says.

“I learned a lot of coping skills and adapting skills that year.”

Ever since she was a little girl, Anne wanted to be a nurse or a doctor. What she discovered, however, was that the real reason she wanted to pursue the medical field is because she wanted to help people. “I chose pharmaceuticals because I wanted to be close to medicine,” Anne says. “I like to be involved with helping people, and I feel like our mission at GSK, which is to help people ‘do more, feel better, live longer,’ was a great mission. I do think about it every time I make a business decision.”

Due to several job promotions and relocation assignments, Anne and her college sweetheart husband, Trampas, have moved 11 times in their 18 years of marriage. Recently, Anne was relocated

12

on a three year assignment to London, England, with her husband and two teenage sons, Chad and Mason. Their sons attend an American school in London, in which 50 percent of the students are American and 54 nationalities are represented. Although some moves are more challenging than others, Chad and Mason lean on each other for support and comfort. “I’m raising very resilient, adaptable children and I think that will serve them well in life,” Anne says. “They’re very accepting of different cultures and different people.”

When Anne and Trampas started their family, they decided that Trampas would stay home to care for the children and Anne would continue advancing her career, which had more opportunities for growth. To maintain an appropriate balance between work and family, Anne creates uninterrupted, quality time with her children, completely away from her career responsibilities. It hasn’t always been easy, but she works hard to maintain a balanced life. “What I learned was that it is really about living an integrated life,” Anne says. “I have worked over the years to establish some boundaries so that when I’m with [my children], I carve out that quality time…

When I’m with them I give them 100 percent of my attention.”

From dreaming about being a doctor as a little girl, to being a Leadership Consultant, to becoming a pharmaceutical sales representative and now a senior vice president for a major pharmaceutical company, Anne has truly made significant progress over the past two decades of being in the workforce. Her intelligent decision making skills, compassion for others and willingness to learn and grow will no doubt prove beneficial to Anne as she continues to make advancements in her career.

alumnae news

A Lifelong Passion Alpha Gam Promoted to Assistant News Director

E

ach year, each day and each moment are new and different for Jennifer VanDerBosch Lyons, Rho-Iowa State University, as she fulfills her Assistant News Director duties for WGN-TV in Chicago. An employee of WGN-TV for the past 15 years, Jennifer has been passionate about news producing since grade school. Although she has worked in nearly every capacity in the news room during her tenure, Jennifer’s most recent role as Assistant News Director includes oversight of the news gathering process for WGN-TV; she works with show producers, executive producers, web producers, writers and assignment editors to get the job done. One of her most recent special projects was putting together the coverage for the Presidential Inauguration.

White Sox championship rally and traveling to Rome to cover a story, to a devastating space shuttle accident and the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, Jennifer has truly covered a wide variety of news. “My most difficult day was September 11,” recalls Jennifer. “It was gut wrenching. I set my feelings aside and spent eight hours producing live coverage…The things I have seen over the years make you cherish what you are given.”

With six children between the ages of 4 and 17, Jennifer makes it a priority to maintain a happy, healthy family and enjoys being surrounded by her children daily. Jennifer says, “I race home [in an effort] to never miss a track meet, softball game or football game.”

In the world of news, some days are more difficult to endure than others. From a Jennifer VanDerBosch Lyons, Rho-Iowa State University

Alumnae Initiates Congratulations to the following Alumnae Initiates: Zeta Delta Chapter June 20, 2008 Jacqueline Hastings Susan Biddison Plummer

Delta Beta Chapter June 20, 2008 Kelsey Hirsch

Gamma Delta Chapter June 20, 2008 Patsy Hicks Johnson

Beta Beta Chapter November 8, 2008 Meri Martin Epsilon Mu Chapter June 20, 2008 Heidi Bender Martin

Delta Kappa Chapter November 22, 2008 Darlene Vollrath Bethany Lewis

Epsilon Nu Chapter November 16, 2008 Helen Ogilvie

Epsilon Upsilon Chapter November 15, 2008 Amy Wade Angie Stickland Nimmo

13

Beta – University of Wisconsin Betty Buckles Cramer ‘49 Mary Quale Ehlers ‘53 Maureen Lynch Hamel ‘40 Delta – University of Minnesota Comfort Brown Leckie ‘41 Epsilon – University of Kentucky Dorothy Ammons Goode ‘39 Thelma Thompson Mays ‘44

Psi – University of Alabama Nellie McDuffie Curry ‘62

Gamma Theta – Florida Southern College Margaret Pendleton Simms ‘63

Alpha Gamma – University of Cincinnati Ruth Mergler Elder ‘35

Delta Alpha – University of Southern California Naomi Fredrickson Overton ‘45

Alpha Theta– Hunter College Helen McQuillan Rack ‘52

Delta Beta – Washington State University Claire Drinkwine Anderson ‘34 Avis Atkins Brown ‘28

Alpha Iota – Baldwin Wallace College Susan Garman Meermans ‘47

Eta – DePauw University Bettie Hunter Blind ‘40 Eleanor Mackey Hanson ‘45

Alpha Xi – University of Maryland Jeanne Watson Cockey ‘51

Iota – University of Washington Robin Buhtz Yates ‘66

Alpha Omega – Duquesne University Mary Kral Almas ‘71

Mu – Brenau University Martha Puckett Keeton ‘52

Beta Alpha – Nebraska Wesleyan University Virginia Gewacke Brusven ‘67 Gwendolyn Booth Conant ‘39 Jane Jewell Lorenz ‘45 Phyllis Stander Schulz ‘42 Mary Dunlap Smith ‘57

Xi – Illinois Wesleyan University Beryl McDonald Makemson ‘35 Pi – Coe College Pauline Burmeister Breed ‘34 Mary Fiebig Houghton ‘40 Rho – Iowa State University Alice Thomas Schoof ‘50 Kathryn Frankenfeld Whitson ‘61 Sigma – University of Illinois Dorothy Durham Pierce ‘41 Patricia Pefferle Sloan ‘43 Chi – Michigan State University Adelaide Dubois Moir ‘40 Upsilon – University of Oklahoma Gretchen Vedder Hagerty ‘54 Fayne Bumgarner Lutz ‘46 Phi – Oregon State University Doris Sweet Curda ‘46 14

Beta Delta – Indiana University Carol Engstrom Bleck ‘55 Gamma Alpha – University of Georgia Josephine Griffin Doyle ‘41 Margaret Loebmann Haas ‘88 Gamma Beta – Florida State University Sara Padgett White ‘59 Gamma Delta– Auburn University Helen Randle Snider ‘48

Delta Zeta – University of British Columbia Lyla Butterworth McKinnon ‘48 Epsilon Alpha – University of Missouri Marilyn Wright Thomas ‘47 Epsilon Delta – University of Texas at Austin Nancy Cartledge Lewis ‘40 Epsilon Epsilon – William Jewell College Joan Schierding Dankner ‘78 Angela Vincent Elliott ‘90 Eugenia Beaumont Stokes ‘49 Epsilon Zeta – Arkansas State University Loma Essex ‘2002 Epsilon Kappa – Pittsburg State University Emajeane Shy Boone ‘60 Kathleen Kinkead Miller ‘72 Epsilon Lambda – Central Missouri State University Theola Orr Walker ‘70 Epsilon Rho – Texas A&M College Station Patricia Quillin Achilles ‘80

Gamma Epsilon – University of North Carolina Anne Torrey Coleman ‘59

Zeta Alpha – Eastern Michigan University Margaret Stadtmiller Hermel ‘74 Suzette Koviak Slezak ‘85

Gamma Zeta – University of Memphis Patricia Fitzgerald Terry ‘54

Zeta Iota – Miami University Lesley Black Parker ‘2003

“I adore getting the Quarterly in the mail. It’s like hearing from a distant friend four times a year.”

–Shavonne Marshall Atkinson, Theta Tau–Belmont University

Quarterly Continues to Inspire Sisters P

ublished continuously since 1909, the Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly has long been a source of history, current events, sisterhood and above all, pride for Fraternity members. Alpha Gam Shavonne Marshall Atkinson, Theta Tau–Belmont University, shares her Quarterly memory, which encouraged her to achieve a significant milestone: “I remember reading an article [in the Summer 2007 Quarterly, titled Sisters’ Support Runs Deep] about how a fellow Alpha Gam had a goal of running a marathon before she turned 30. At the time I was a runner, but I had never entered any actual races. After reading that article, being 28 at the time, I decided that was an awesome idea: to run a marathon before I turn 30. I started training in October 2007 for the

Country Music Marathon in Nashville, Tennessee, which was held on April 26, 2008. I finished the marathon in April and even though I was completely exhausted, I decided that day that I could not wait to run another one!

I just want to thank all my Alpha Gam sisters for constant motivation in life. Sometimes it takes people you have never even met to give you that extra push toward something you will continue to do for the rest of your life.”

Share your Quarterly memories!

E-mail quarterly@alphagammadelta.org and let us know what the Quarterly means to you.

15

collegiate co c eg e new news e alumnae a l from news om the foundation foundat fou from foundation fraternity happenings fr

The Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation 2008–2009 Scholars The Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation would like to congratulate this year’s scholarship recipients.

Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation General Scholarship Awards The following members are recipients of Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation General Scholarships. These scholarships are available to both graduate and undergraduate members of Alpha Gamma Delta through donations to the Foundation’s Annual Fund. Unrestricted gifts to the Foundation’s Annual Fund provide grants to our Fraternity, assistance to sisters with emergency needs, scholarships to outstanding women such as those listed below and much more.

16

Edie L. Anderzhon Beta Alpha-Nebraska Wesleyan University Major: Music Education

Andrea A. Cummings Theta Iota-Western Kentucky University Pursuing: Master of Finance at Auburn University

Heather L. Evans Zeta Nu-Alma College Major: Elementary Education

Shareen T. Aqrabawi Upsilon-University of Oklahoma Major: Education – Social Studies

Katherine B. Davenport Gamma UpsilonUniversity of Montevallo Pursuing: Doctor of Pharmacy at Samford University

Erika L. Gemzer Gamma Phi-Georgia Institute of Technology Major: Chemical Engineering

Katherine Baczewski Omega-University of Akron Pursuing: Master of Dietetics at Case Western Reserve University

Jennifer Swanson DelVecchio Beta Sigma-Creighton University Pursuing: Master of Education at Concordia University Chicago

Kayla M. Heath Epsilon Psi-University of Texas at Dallas Major: Accounting & Information Management

Laura C. Berry Epsilon BetaUniversity of Kansas Pursuing: Master of Education – Curriculum & Instruction at University of Kansas

Sarah E. DeVoe Alpha UpsilonCentral Michigan University Major: Family Studies & Psychology

Jessica A. Hermes Beta Xi-Purdue University Pursuing: Doctor of Pharmacy at Purdue University

Becky J. Bonner Delta Iota-California State University, Chico Pursuing: Credential of Education at California State University, Chico

Ashley N. Doles Alpha Lambda-Ohio State University Major: Health Sciences/ Pre-Optometry

Tanya M. Horvath Epsilon Omega-Truman State University Pursuing: Juris Doctor at University of Missouri-Columbia

Ting Cheng Gamma Phi-Georgia Institute of Technology Pursuing: Master of Advanced Design at Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Megan E. Edwards Zeta Psi-Western Michigan University Pursuing: Doctor of Education at Colorado State University

Laura A. Jaskierski Xi-Illinois Wesleyan University Pursuing: Master of Public Administration at Syracuse University

from the foundation

Abbie M. Johnson Gamma Iota-Mercer University Pursuing: Doctor of Pharmacy at University of Georgia

Melanie Morley Alpha Upsilon-Central Michigan University Major: Sociology & Criminal Justice

Jennifer Strong Alpha Eta-Dalhousie University Major: Neuroscience

Fawn R. Kidder Epsilon Mu-Fort Hays State University Major: Justice Studies

Andrea J. Pendleton Gamma Iota-Mercer University Pursuing: Master of Public Administration at Kennesaw State University

Kari M. Swartzmiller Zeta Omicron-Kettering University Major: Mechanical Engineering

Monica Anderson Mann Zeta Eta-Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Pursuing: Master of School Counseling at Montclair State University

Jayme L. Petete Epsilon Nu-University of Central Oklahoma Major: Performing Arts

Alexandria N. Theodosopoulos Alpha Lambda-Ohio State University Major: Business

Carolyn S. McAliley Gamma Xi-Murray State University Pursuing: Master of Food & Nutrition at Florida State University

Teresa N. Roberts Gamma Tau-University of West Georgia Pursuing: Master of Education/School Counseling at University of West Georgia

Hillery R. Tucker Gamma UpsilonUniversity of Montevallo Major: Foreign Languages

Nicole M. McDonald Alpha Eta-Dalhousie University Pursuing: Master of Public Administration at Dalhousie University

Jennifer A. Rodriguez Beta Eta-Southern Illinois University Pursuing: Master of Psychology at Roosevelt University

Ashley L. Urben Beta Delta-Indiana University Major: Psychology

Jamie A. Meeks Psi-University of Alabama Major: Communicative Disorders

Laura Sivy Beta Xi-Purdue University Major: Organizational Communication

Sara E. Walter Zeta Theta-Lafayette College Major: History and Government & Law

Heather Meyers Jones Alpha Pi-Wayne State University Major: Biology

Jamie R. Spisak Alpha EpsilonWestminster College Major: Speech Communication

Lauren M. Wybenga Gamma Delta-Auburn University Major: Building Science

17

from the foundation

Endowed Scholarship Awards The following women are recipients of scholarships provided through the Foundation’s endowment fund program.

Thanks to the generosity of our many loyal members, chapters, clubs, family and friends, over 120 endowed funds will provide educational support to our members for generations to come.

If you would like to know more about endowing a scholarship fund, please contact Julie Waitman Cretin, Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation Executive Director, by phone at 317-879-9328 or by e-mail at jcretin@alphagammadelta.org.

18

Erica A. Adams Kay Schurr Scholarship Zeta Beta-Lehigh University Major: Graphic Design

Megan Britt Fred & Marie Monk Samp Scholarship Epsilon Phi-Texas Woman’s University Major: Government

Lu Chen John & Betty Yeoman Briffett Scholarship Zeta Omicron-Kettering University Major: Applied Math

Lyndsey M. Andary Alpha Beta Past Grand Council Members Scholarship Alpha Beta-University of Michigan Pursuing: Master of Health Administration at Eastern Michigan University

Amy M. Campbell Jenae Marie Johnson Scholarship Epsilon Xi-East Central University Pursuing: Master of Medicine at University of Oklahoma

Graycen E. Colbert Helen E. Heggie Scholarship Epsilon Zeta-Arkansas State University Major: Art History

Tara L. Baratz Robert Graf Scholarship Gamma Tau-University of West Georgia Major: Chemistry; Pre-Medicine

Ashley M. Campbell G. Robert Grant Scholarship Gamma Alpha-University of Georgia Major: Child & Family Development

Infinity N. Cole Beta Omicron Scholarship Beta Omicron-Illinois State University Major: Psychology/ Criminology

Jessica A. Block Sir Harry Polche Scholarship Kappa Gamma-Texas A & M – Corpus Christi Major: Graphic Design

Kirby Y. Cannon Hillary Fitzhugh Scholarship Upsilon-University of Oklahoma Major: Social Work

Sarah B. Columbia Harriett Fox Grant Scholarship Theta UpsilonGeorgetown College Pursuing: Master of Psychology at Murray State University

Anne D. Bostrom Chicago Northwest Suburban Alumnae Club Scholarship Xi-Illinois Wesleyan University Pursuing: Master of Social Work at The University of Chicago

Dedra L. Casey Diane Raffel Collins Scholarship Gamma Phi-Georgia Institute of Technology Major: Economics

Brittany R. Cramer Barbara Henderson Miller Scholarship Zeta Gamma-Gannon University Pursuing: Master of Occupational Therapy at Gannon University

from the foundation Mariam P. Dalaly Dr. Dorothy E. Chapman Scholarship Alpha Beta-University of Michigan Pursuing: Master of Public Health at University of Michigan

Progga Das Jessie Fortier Memorial Scholarship Zeta Eta-Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Major: Biomedical Engineering

Emily Dawes Beta Xi Scholarship Beta Xi-Purdue University Major: History

Julie A. Farrell Jean Lehl Koziara Scholarship Epsilon Mu-Fort Hays State University Major: Social Work

Jacqueline K. Flaherty Carol Ann Gordon Scholarship Omega-University of Akron Major: Communication/ Public Relations

Jennifer L. Foster Jean Lehl Koziara Scholarship Upsilon-University of Oklahoma Major: Social Work

Kelly M. Dermyer Elizabeth Connely Lee Scholarship Alpha Upsilon-Central Michigan University Major: Family Studies & Life Management Education

Casie M. Frink Cindy Devereaux Memorial Scholarship Beta Eta-Southern Illinois University Major: Psychology

Ashley R. Droege Cindy Devereaux Memorial Scholarship Beta Eta-Southern Illinois University Major: Radiologic Sciences

Jacqueline Gajus Barbara Caldwell Memorial Scholarship Zeta-Ohio University Pursuing: Education Specialist Degree at University of Cincinnati

Lauren C. East Harriett Fox Grant Scholarship Gamma Sigma-Troy University Major: English/Language Arts Education

Jordan M. Gray Sarah Geraldine & Rufus Preston Payne Scholarship Delta Theta-University of Idaho Major: Journalism

Ashleigh J. Griffin Luann Rhodes Scholarship Gamma Phi-Georgia Institute of Technology Major: Environmental Engineering

Steffanie D. Grossman Beta Beta Scholarship Beta Beta-North Dakota State University Major: Psychology

Cara J. Group Rosalie Chuma Polche Scholarship Alpha Omicron-West Virginia Wesleyan College Pursuing: Juris Doctor at Duquesne University

Ashley C. Grys Diana Stevens Falk Memorial Leadership Scholarship Epsilon Epsilon-William Jewell College Major: Church Music

Laura E. Harrison Sarah Geraldine & Rufus Preston Payne Scholarship Epsilon Zeta-Arkansas State University Major: Journalism/ Communication

Alyson L. Hendry Barbara Henderson Miller Scholarship Epsilon Omega-Truman State University Pursuing: Master of Communication Disorders at Truman State University Rachel L. Hersh Jess Agee Temple & Helen Pasas Todd Memorial Scholarship Delta Rho-Sonoma State University Major: Psychology 19

from the foundation Mary E. Hourihan Delta Theta Scholarship Delta Theta-University of Idaho Major: Business

Katherine S. Hylen Charles J. & Helen Desha Petrie Scholarship Epsilon-University of Kentucky Major: Elementary Education

Lauren A. Johnson Theta Sigma Upsilon Scholarship Epsilon-University of Kentucky Major: Communication Disorders

Jenna A. Kelly Michelle Flake Morgan Scholarship Gamma Tau-University of West Georgia Major: Accounting/ Finance

Jacqueline Kirchhofer William Denning, Jr. & Minerva Denning Roberts Scholarship Member of University of Central Missouri Major: Psychology & Chemistry Jessica L. Krzyzanowski Barbara Feurer Freise Dallas Alumnae Scholarship Epsilon Psi-University of Texas at Dallas Major: Psychology Alyse Kupsis Harriett Olsen Nagel Scholarship Beta Xi-Purdue University Major: Communication

20

Rebecca L. Littlefield Barbara Feurer Freise Memorial Scholarship Sigma-University of Illinois Major: Agriculture Education

Holly A. Moore Charlotte Kickhaefer Davis Scholarship Gamma Sigma-Troy University Major: Elementary Education

Krysta MalcolmRexrode Alpha Omicron-Glauner Scholarship Alpha Omicron-West Virginia Wesleyan College Major: Communication

Aran R. Mordoh Beta Delta Scholarship Beta Delta-Indiana University Pursuing: Master of Public Health at Columbia University

Tiffany R. Martin Fred & Marie Monk Samp Scholarship Epsilon Kappa-Pittsburg State University Major: Public Relations

Monique I. Narvaez Merlon King Fanno Memorial Scholarship Delta Iota-California State University, Chico Major: Exercise Physiology

Stephanie C. Mazzatenta Margaret Uhl Burrows Scholarship Gamma Beta-Florida State University Major: Exercise Physiology

Karlie M. Nieto Delta Pi Scholarship Delta Pi-San Francisco State University Major: International Relations

Staci Bohringer McClendon Culp Memorial Scholarship University of Central Missouri Major: Geology

Whitney Farris O’Neal Jane A. Graf Scholarship Epsilon Zeta-Arkansas State University Pursuing: Master of Music at University of Alabama-Tuscaloosa

Cassandra A. Milke Delta Sigma Hawaii Scholarship Delta Sigma-University of Hawaii at Manoa Major: Education & History

Becky Paskievich Gamma Xi Scholarship Gamma Xi-Murray State University Major: Nutrition

from the foundation Brittany L. Pease Tricia Barber Scholarship Gamma Alpha-University of Georgia Major: Child & Family Development

Erin Pfefferle Barbara Caldwell Memorial Scholarship Zeta-Ohio University Pursuing: Juris Doctor at University of Cincinnati

Amanda B. Shakal Dee Ann Elliott Woodall Scholarship Upsilon-University of Oklahoma Major: Microbiology/ Pre-Medicine

Kristina Shoemake Sandy McMurray Novak Scholarship Iota-University of Washington Major: Earth & Space Sciences

Lindsay M. Powers Adelaine Cheney McMurray Scholarship Iota-University of Washington Major: Drama & Communications

Megan Fotheringill Spangler Patricia Houck Holvick Scholarship Iota-University of Washington Pursuing: Master of Nursing at University of Washington

Aimee N. Queen Zeta Omicron Scholarship Zeta Omicron-Kettering University Major: Mechanical Engineering

Sarah J. Stringer Marilynn Joan Yocum Roy Scholarship Iota-University of Washington Major: English & Economics

Sarah A. Schweizer Cindy Devereaux Memorial Scholarship Beta Eta-Southern Illinois University Pursuing: Master of Social Work at University of Maryland Baltimore

Carson R. Tallent Elaine Barrick Bess Scholarship Gamma OmegaUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham Major: Nursing

Dominique M. Seghetti Patricia Houck Holvick Scholarship Iota-University of Washington Pursuing: Master of Accounting at University of Washington

Tea E. Toplak Southern California Alumnae Scholarship Delta Pi-San Francisco State University Major: Theater Arts

Lindsey Updike Barbara Caldwell Memorial Scholarship Zeta-Ohio University Major: Finance

Valerie A. Vandenberg Elsie M. Jackson Scholarship Beta Delta-Indiana University Major: Nursing

Jennifer L. West Calvin and Marian Newell Scholarship Alpha Upsilon-Central Michigan University Pursuing: Master of Business Administration at Wayne State University Meg L. Williamson Margaret Shirley Koster Scholarship Psi-University of Alabama Major: History & Political Science

Heather L. Wolf Cindy Devereaux Memorial Scholarship Beta Eta-Southern Illinois University Major: Radiologic Sciences

Sara E. Wright Dawn Cleek Memorial Scholarship Gamma Zeta-University of Memphis Major: Psychology

Allison M. Zimmerman DuPage Area Alumnae Club Scholarship Beta Xi-Purdue University Major: Industrial Technology & Distribution 21

fraternity happenings

National Panhellenic Conference Launches New Website www.th

T

o reach out to the millennial generation’s desire for effective, electronic communication, the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) launched a new website, called The Sorority Life, on November 17, 2008. Aiming to change attitudes, misperceptions and common stereotypes regarding sorority life, NPC executives set up this resource-rich site to help women make educated choices about the paths they take in college that can affect their futures. “We hope to change some perceptions out there and tell the clear, honest truth about the sorority experience. That means also informing some visitors to the site that a sorority choice may not be the right one,” says Julie Cain Burkhard, NPC Chairman.

“We’ve never defined the experience this way, educated people this way, dispelled stereotypes this way.”

At the site, www.thesororitylife.com, visitors learn about the sorority experience, the expectations of its members, tips on 22

esororit

ylife.co

m

participating in recruitment and famous Panhellenic women.

Visitors may also sign up for an e-newsletter to get updates on The Sorority Life.

This project will eventually include three new sites that will include information and interactive capabilities for parents, alumnae and unaffiliated women who are looking for specific information about sorority life. As teens continue to prefer more and more of their communication electronically, NPC sees a need to expand its presence online. “There is no doubt our online presence needs to grow and provide accurate data, not only to young women entering college, but also to parents, high school advisors and others who play an important role in shaping lifelong goals of emerging adults,” says Julie. “We intend to be proactive and define the experience.”

fraternity happenings

Alpha Gamma Delta & Panhellenic: Opportunities for a Lifetime

By Rie Gerah Hoehner, International Vice President-Panhellenic Affairs

A

s campus-based organizations, College Panhellenics contribute to a positive collegiate sorority experience. The Panhellenic experience, just like our sisterhood, lasts for a lifetime! NPC supports 214 Alumnae Panhellenics which continue to offer sorority members opportunities for involvement in community service, leadership, as well as Panhellenic friendships well beyond the college years. Through involvement with Alumnae Panhellenics, Alpha Gamma Delta sisters further widen their lifelong circle of sisterhood, friendship and support.

ence, it can also support the growth of Alpha Gamma Delta.

The Fraternity continually seeks growth through both new and existing collegiate chapters. Alpha Gamma Delta alumnae who are involved in Panhellenic at the local level can offer a wealth of support to our membership recruitment efforts. By promoting the Fraternity experience to potential new members and supporting collegiate chapters in the recruitment information process, alumnae members are invaluable. As the Fraternity seeks new chapter growth opportunities, alumnae can also significantly support our extension research efforts. Having locally involved alumnae who can provide insight and information regarding local colleges and universities is such a wonderful resource for our extension team.

Alumnae Panhellenics promote the women’s fraternity experience to high school women, keep alumnae informed of current trends in the Rie Gerah Hoehner, International Greek world and support a positive Panhellenic Vice President-Panhellenic Affairs image. Alpha Gamma Delta is currently represented in 131 Alumnae Panhellenics across the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom; however, If you are interested in getting involved in your local Alumthere are 83 Alumnae Panhellenics seeking Alpha Gamma Delta nae Panhellenic or in any other of those without current Alpha alumnae to represent the Fraternity in their local communities. Gamma Delta representation, please contact Rie Gerah Hoehner, While our alumnae involvement supports the Panhellenic experi- International Vice President-Panhellenic Affairs at ivppa@vst. alphagammadelta.org.

ALUMNAE PANHELLENICS SEEKING ALPHA GAMMA DELTA REPRESENTATION: Arkansas Arizona California Colorado Connecticut Florida

Illinois Indiana Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Massachusetts

Michigan Missouri Mississippi Montana North Carolina New Jersey

New Mexico Nevada New York Ohio Oklahoma Oregon

South Carolina Texas Utah Washington Wisconsin West Virginia

The states listed above host Alumnae Panhellenics in need of Alpha Gamma Delta alumnae representation. For a detailed list of the specific Alumnae Panhellenics, visit www.alphagammadelta.org/AboutAGD/NationalPanhellenicConference.html.

23

fraternity happenings

Stephannie Sack Bailey Named Executive Director of Alpha Gamma Delta Fraternity “It is a privilege and honor to bring my professional skills to my Fraternity. I know first-hand what a positive impact Alpha Gamma Delta can make in the lives of its members. I look forward to continuing our great heritage while moving our organization forward as we continue to inspire the woman and impact the world.”

-Stephannie Sack Bailey, Executive Director of Alpha Gamma Delta Fraternity

Stephannie Sack Bailey (at left) works with Penny Yocum Edmondson (at right) to transition into her new Fraternity role.

I

nternational Council is pleased to announce Stephannie Sack Bailey, Zeta Omicron–Kettering University, as the new Executive Director of Alpha Gamma Delta Fraternity.

Stephannie’s most recent position was the Executive Director of The Leadership Institute–Women with Purpose, Inc., which is a nonprofit leadership development organization funded by the Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation. Stephannie’s professional experience began at General Motors Corporation as a District Manager and Regional Product Trainer. After receiving her master’s degree from the University of Kentucky, Stephannie was employed by McKesson Provider Technologies as an Education Consultant and Senior Program Manager.

“Stephannie is an experienced, dynamic leader who consistently fosters the spirit of excellence. She has proven herself to be a talented and devoted member of Alpha Gamma Delta who gives her best to every situation,” says Jackie Brannon Stutts, International President. “Stephannie is in the unique position of serving 24

the Fraternity previously as a Chapter Advisor, a Volunteer Service Team member and a staff member for our sister-organization. We are very excited about the future of Alpha Gamma Delta under her leadership.”

Penny Yocum Edmondson, Beta Xi–Purdue University, served as Interim Executive Director while the Fraternity searched for its Executive Director. “The Fraternity and I are so thankful that Penny responded so joyfully when called upon to bestow her talent and leadership upon the Fraternity,” says Jackie. In the seven months she served as the Interim Executive Director, Penny made great progress in multiple areas of the Fraternity. International Council is pleased that Penny will continue to serve the Fraternity as Philanthropy Committee Chairman.

While the Fraternity continues to grow, let’s thank Penny for her continued support to the Fraternity and welcome Stephannie as the sixth Executive Director of Alpha Gamma Delta Fraternity.

fraternity happenings

Are You Stepping Up to the Challenge?

Walk to 2010 Challenge Progress Report Steps we’ve taken: 41.4 Million Calories we’ve burned: 1.2 Million Number of Inspired Sisters: 953

Sidebar or something: Together, Alpha Gams from coast to coast are marching together to virtually walk 1,000 miles from International Headquarters in Indianapolis, Indiana, to our next Convention site in Tampa, Florida. Learn more about the Walk to 2010 Challenge at www.alphagammadelta.org/philanthropy/walkto2010.html.

25

International Reunion Day 2009 Health and Vigor: The Prizes of our Purpose A Alpha Gams will reinforce our commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle through our celebram tion of International Reunion Day (IRD) in April ti 22009 with the theme, Health and Vigor: The Prizes oof our Purpose. This theme offers many possibilities for addressing the importance of healthy living for our members and their families. We hope to see you at IRD 2009!

Learn more about IRD online at www.alphagammadelta.org/NewsAndEvents/ Reunion.html.

Directory International Council International President– Jackie Brannon Stutts ip@vst.alphagammadelta.org Tuscumbia, Alabama International Vice PresidentAlumnae– Mary Beth Dulcey Morabito ivpa@vst.alphagammadelta.org Novi, Michigan International Vice PresidentCollegians– Sharon Dunkman Carruthers ivpc@vst.alphagammadelta.org Memphis, Tennessee International Vice PresidentMembership– Marie Ford Palmer ivpm@vst.alphagammadelta.org Lexington, South Carolina International Vice PresidentExtension– Sheila Kelley Sola ivpe@vst.alphagammadelta.org Kennesaw, Georgia International Vice PresidentFinance– Anne Loring Eiler ivpf@vst.alphagammadelta.org Lighthouse Point, Florida International Vice PresidentPanhellenic Affairs– Rie Gerah Hoehner ivppa@vst.alphagammadelta.org Houston, Texas 26

International Headquarters 8701 Founders Rd. Indianapolis, IN 46268 317-872-2655 Fax: 317-875-5824 www.alphagammadelta.org Office Hours– 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. EDT Executive Director– Stephannie Sack Bailey Director of Accounting and Human Resources– Sara Hicks Director of Chapter Services– Mary Farrell Director of Communications and Marketing– Position Open

Fraternity Insurance MJ Insurance, Inc. Heather Cox 9225 Priority Way West Dr., Ste.100 P.O. Box 50435 Indianapolis, IN 46240 888-442-7470 www.mjsorority.com

Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation Trustees President– Benita Wilson Dick benita@airmail.net Dallas, Texas Vice President– Debbie Douglass Roth ddragd@sbcglobal.net North Canton, Ohio Secretary– Peggy Kuebler Field pfield3311@sbcglobal.net Houston, Texas Treasurer– Patricia Tulley Riddiford riddi4d@aol.com Chicago, Illinois Jackie Brannon Stutts ip@vst.alphagammadelta.org Tuscumbia, Alabama Gail Calkins Duree gduree@duree.com Denver, Colorado Deborah Schmidt Eschenbacher deborah@esch-associates.com Upper Arlington, Ohio

Foundation Office 3905 Vincennes Road, Suite 105 Indianapolis, IN 46268 317-879-9328 Fax: 317-415-0335 Office Hours– 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. EDT Executive Director– Julie Waitman Cretin Account Manager– Chris Rudduck Fedor Development Manager– Jamie Sheriff

The Leadership Institute–Women with Purpose, Inc. 3815 River Crossing Parkway, Suite 100 Indianapolis, IN 46240 Office Hours– 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. EDT Executive Director– Erin Strine estrine@theleadershipinstitute-wwp.org Training and Development Manager– Position Open Program Coordinator– Jill Lyons jlyons@theleadershipinstitute-wwp.org

27

I remember sitting down in my dorm room with my little poetry notebook and my pen to write this poem at a time in my life when Alpha Gam, Theta Delta Chapter and my sisters were my foundation. College is a time of experimenting with being an adult, making your own decisions, falling on your face, wanting to stand on your own feet.

Are there any of us who don’t know how difficult that can be without knowing that there is a support system behind you? My family was great, but away at college it was my sisters who really supported me as I made my way along the bumpy path that was my college career.

The poem was read and still is read as part of Theta Delta Chapter’s preference ceremony and to this day, I have sisters tell me that it brings tears to their eyes. I would like to think that it

is my skill as a writer, but I know it’s the love that we inspire in each other that makes this poem resound with Alpha Gams of all ages.

At my last recruitment as a collegiate member there was a large white board and on it someone had written, “Who are you going to call at 3 a.m.?” That stuck with me. I am not as close to my sisters now as I was then, but any of those women could call me tonight and say, “Lee, I need you right now” and I would be out the door, even at 3 a.m.

form through the sisterhood that is Alpha Gamma Delta are not fleeting; they make a place in your heart that remains throughout life. I could not have understood then how much I was going to learn from these women in such a short time or how much those experiences would affect who I am now almost 10 years later.

Recently I have been flipping through photos remembering all the silly stories and moments that you don’t think of as often as time passes. The woman I am today, a woman who I am intensely proud of, wouldn’t be the same without my experiences with my sisters. The bonds we

29

You

are Alpha Gamma Delta.

You play an important role in the sustainment of our Purpose and ideals.

A

As alumnae, we unite to strengthen sisterly bonds and create new opportunities and enriching experiences for all Alpha Gamma Delta sisters. Your $35 Alumnae Dues payment is an essential factor in helping us to secure a bright future for Alpha Gamma Delta.

You can pay your alumnae dues: 1) online; Visit www.alphagammadelta.org.

2) by mail; Enclose the mailing label below with your check and mail it to International Headquarters.

Moving or Changing Your Name?

Please detach and mail changes to: Alpha Gamma Delta Fraternity 8701 Founders Road Indianapolis, IN 46268

Name __________________________________ New Name ___________________________________

Or e-mail changes to: lwilliams@alphagammadelta.org

New Address __________________________________________________________________________ city state/province ZIP/postal code street

Notify the Permanent Secretary of your chapter of any changes.

New Phone Number ______________________________ E-mail _______________________________

Chapter/Year of Initiation ______________________________________________________________

Effective Date ________ Alumnae or Fraternity office currently holding? _______________________ Parents: While your daughter is in college, her magazine is sent to her home address. We hope you enjoy it. If she is no longer in college and is not living at home, please encourage her to update her contact information with the Fraternity.

Alpha Gamma Delta Fraternity 8701 Founders Road Indianapolis, IN 46268 Change Service Requested

NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 467 Dulles, VA