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Installation in Tennessee
Alpha Gam officially re-installed Gamma Nu Chapter at UTK on November 3, 2024.
Collegians from Gamma Psi–University of North Alabama and Gamma Zeta–University of Memphis served as members of the Initiation team. Caroline Mcneal, Gamma Psi-University of North Alabama, who was one of the members who traveled to Knoxville to serve on the Initiation team, said she will cherish the opportunity forever. "I was able to see Alpha Gamma Delta from a much wider view and that is something I loved. I cannot wait to see the positive impact Gamma Nu Chapter brings to the UTK campus," Caroline said.
International President Andrea Pendleton served as the Installing Officer and Toastmistress of Feast of Roses. “These new Alpha Gam sisters are driven by strong values and have made a commitment to be there for each other, to be the best version of themselves, and to know that what they do matters — because what they do makes a big impact on our world and our Fraternity,” Andrea said. “I am so excited for the rich future these new members have already established for this chapter and am honored that all of you have joined us to celebrate this special occasion.”
The Installation and Feast of Roses Banquet was held at the Foundry on the Fair Site in Knoxville. Parents, sisters and friends of Alpha Gamma Delta joined together for this celebration of sisterhood. Notably, several Gamma Nu alumnae were present for Initiation and got to help pin the new members.
Gamma Nu Chapter alumna Robin Bayless said being a part of Installation and rechartering of the chapter has been a great honor. “I have so many beautiful memories and lifelong friends because of Alpha Gam. It is wonderful to be back at UT and I look forward to watching the chapter flourish,” she said.
Chapter Advisor Jessi Hesseldahl, Gamma Zeta–University of Memphis, said Feast of Roses was a beautiful event. “I was encouraged by the number of guests who showed up and were excited for their daughters, sisters and friends as they celebrated the installation of Gamma Nu. Also, the support from IHQ has been tremendous. Every person involved put so much time, effort, sweat and love into making Gamma Nu's Installation a memorable experience," Jessi said.
At the banquet, Katie Jolley Abernathy, Chief Executive Officer of the Fraternity, presented the chapter with its official charter.
Julie Waitman, Chief Executive Officer of the Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation, announced the Foundation would be giving five $1,000 scholarships for collegiate members of the chapter next fall.
Shortly after the installation, Gamma Nu Chapter hosted its first philanthropy event, Let’s Taco ‘Bout Fighting Hunger, where members sold walking tacos—small bags of Doritos that you put the toppings directly into. Attendees included other students, faculty, advisors, parents and even some local firefighters who helped raise $3,342 for the Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation.
Alpha Gamma Delta women are united by a common purpose. We continue inspiring women and impacting the world as we grow our sisterhood.
