Summer 2011
INSIDE:
Discovering and maintaining personal life balance
of Alpha Sigma Alpha
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Theta Omicron Chapter installed
ON THE COVER:
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F E AT U R E S
Summer 2011
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District Day 2011–12: Leading with passion
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legacies: Following footsteps, creating paths
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Summertime and the cooking is easy
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Theta Omicron Chapter installed
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Finding balance through technology
Discovering and maintaining personal life balance
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PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA
SUMMER 2011
Volume 97, Number 3
of Alpha Sigma Alpha Summer 2011
FROM THE EDITOR Dear readers, When I started to think about this issue of the Phoenix and its focus on balance, my thoughts led to a District Day alumnae workshop that I participated in a few years ago called “The Art of Balance.” This workshop was written and presented by The Leadership Institute-Women with Purpose (The LI). During this workshop, I took away a lot of helpful information about maintaining personal life balance, and I’m sure other alumnae felt the same way.
DEPARTMENTS 4
Message From the President
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FOUNDation news
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District News
Alpha Sigma Alpha is fortunate to have a great working relationship with The LI, and they agreed to write an article for this issue about discovering and maintaining personal life balance, based upon their curriculum from “The Art of Balance” workshop. We are so thankful they agreed to write this article for us, and I hope you enjoy reading it. I am also excited for you to read the work of some very talented Alpha Sigma Alphas and their tips to help you maintain balance in various areas of your life. I hope that after reading the articles in this issue, you will pass it along to your mothers, daughters, sisters, aunts or friends, so they too can gain insight about personal life balance from our writers. In Alpha Sigma Alpha,
News & Events From the Archives
DEADLINES Winter . . . . . . . . . September Spring . . . . . . . . . . December Summer . . . . . . . . . . . March Fall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June
EDITOR
Erika Ann Butts, ebutts@alphasigmaalpha.org
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STAFF 10 10 10 10
Contributing Editor Nancy I.Z. Reese, niz.reese@gmail.com
NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS 9002 Vincennes Circle Indianapolis, IN 46268 Phone: 317-871-2920 Fax: 317-871-2924 E-mail: asa@alphasigmaalpha.org
Erika Ann Butts Phoenix Editor
PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA (USPS 430-640) is published quarterly by Alpha Sigma Alpha, 9002 Vincennes Circle, Indianapolis, IN 46268. Periodicals postage paid at Indianapolis, IN, and additional mailing offices. Produced by Maury Boyd & Associates, Indianapolis. © Alpha Sigma Alpha. Send address changes, death notices and business correspondence to the national headquarters. Address all editorial correspondence to the editor. POSTMASTER: Send address changes (Form 3579) to Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha, 9002 Vincennes Circle, Indianapolis, IN 46268. Printed in the USA.
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M essage from the president
Striving for balance B Y C I N D Y K E L L E Y , National President When thinking about balance in our lives, one person’s account that defines and helps us visualize the intricacies of the concept of “balance” was presented in a commencement speech at Georgia Tech University by Brian G. Dyson, former president and CEO of Coca-Cola. “Imagine life as a game in which you are juggling some five balls in the air. You name them — work — family — health — friends — spirit, and you’re keeping all of these in the air. You will soon understand that work is a rubber ball. If you drop it, it will bounce back. But the other four balls — family, health, friends and spirit are made of glass. If you drop one of these, they will be irrevocably scuffed, marked, nicked, damaged or even shattered. They will never be the same. You must understand that and strive for balance in your life.”
Dyson further explained how you can do just that by providing the following 12 pieces of advice: 1. Don’t undermine your worth by comparing yourself with others. It is because we are different that each of us is special. 2. Don’t set your goals by what other people deem important. Only you know what is best for you. 3. Don’t take for granted the things closest to your heart. Cling to them as you would your life, for without them, life is meaningless. 4. Don’t let your life slip through your fingers by living in the past or for the future. By living your life one day at a time, you live ALL the days of your life. 5. Don’t give up when you still have something to give. Nothing is really over until the moment you stop trying. 6. Don’t be afraid to admit that you are less than perfect. It is this fragile thread that binds us together. 7. Don’t be afraid to encounter risks. It is by taking chances that we learn how to be brave. 8. Don’t shut love out of your life by saying it’s impossible to find. The quickest way to receive love is to give; the fastest way to lose love is to hold it too tightly; and the best way to keep love is to give it wings. 9. Don’t run through life so fast that you forget not only where you’ve been, but also where you are going. 10. Don’t forget that a person’s greatest emotional need is to feel appreciated. 11. Don’t be afraid to learn. Knowledge is weightless, a treasure you can always carry easily. 12. Don’t use time or words carelessly. Neither can be retrieved. This is good advice for all of us no matter where we are in life — collegian, young professional, working mother or retiree. 4
PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA
Balance is emphasized for Alpha Sigma Alphas through our mission, ritual, aims and core values. Our mission reads, “Alpha Sigma Alpha promotes high ideals and standards for its members throughout their lives by emphasizing balance among our four aims of intellectual, physical, social and spiritual development.” I am thankful for the sorority’s emphasis on balance as a daily reminder, and I often select “balance” as the core value that resonates with me most on any given day. For me, it is the key to my happiness, health, wealth and overall wellbeing. Like so many women, I strive to strike a balance between family, work, volunteer service, friends, learning, playtime and “me” time. To me, balance is not defined by mere moderation where everything stays in consistent alignment and perfect balance 100 percent of the time. I believe balance exists with ups and downs, highs and lows, accomplishments and challenges and excitement and relaxation. To enjoy life balance, I must not only engage in hard work, but I must also enjoy quality time with family and friends. I can indulge in an extra chocolate chip cookie when I want, as long as I remember to make healthier food choices other times. I can enjoy a vacation in the Caribbean from time to time if I choose a “staycation” at other times. Balance desires variety and demands attention; and I try to give it both. In doing so, I reap the benefits and have the opportunity to live each day to its ultimate good. May this edition of the Phoenix inspire you to seek balance in your life. In Alpha Sigma Alpha,
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This August, as we launch a new brand identity for Alpha Sigma Alpha, relive your memories, rekindle your friendships and re-embrace the sisterhood that encouraged your growth and created a woman of
poise and purpose. SUMMER 2011
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At District Day 2011–12: Leading with passion, members will experience a wide variety of educational programming including chapter operations sessions, personal development workshops and programming for alumnae. Also, at each District Day event, advisors have the opportunity to attend advisor certification training that will coincide with District Day. Alpha Sigma Alpha is excited to feature educational programming again from The Leadership Institute—Women with Purpose. At District Day, they will be presenting sessions titled, “Game Changers” for both collegians and alumnae.
“Game Changers: Alumnae”
District Day 2011–12: Leading with passion B Y H I L A R Y M O E , Leadership Development & Event Coordinator R A C H A E L C A N D E E , Volunteer & Alumnae Coordinator
“A great leader’s courage to fulfill his vision comes from passion, not position.” — John Maxwell Alpha Sigma Alpha members share a common bond – passion for our sorority. As leaders in our sorority and in our communities, it is so important to remember why we are leading. As John Maxwell states, “leadership isn’t about the position you have, it is about the passion you have for what you are leading.” Alpha Sigma Alpha’s success thrives on the passion of its members, and District Day 2011–12: Leading with passion, will help members highlight and strengthen the passion they already have for Alpha Sigma Alpha. 6
PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA
Are you stuck? Have you had a big life change recently, or do you anticipate one right around the corner? If so, this workshop will take you through an easy framework for dealing with and embracing change effectively. Next, you will begin to rediscover your true life’s passion and focus on what is really important to you in order to manage productive change. Finally, learn the steps for planning the next big phase in your life after a major event. Life is change. Learn how to be a game changer.
“Game Changers: Collegians” Every day we are presented with thousands of new thoughts, images, ideas and facts. From time to time, one creates a big spark in us, and we are compelled to create change in our life. However, when we are passionate about something new, we often struggle trying to get others involved with the same level of excitement, passion and energy. This workshop will walk you through the simple steps of how to have a great idea and share it, get others involved and committed to the idea and then making the change happen. Life is change. Learn how to be a game changer. District Day is a great opportunity for alumnae and collegians to network with each other. Collegians from different chapters will attend workshops together, while sharing ideas and becoming instant resources for each other. All alumnae attending District Day are invited to attend an alumnae reception, which is hosted by Alpha Sigma Alpha and the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation. SUMMER 2011
Advisor certification 2011–12 Registration information Registration for District Day will be available in August 2011 on the Alpha Sigma Alpha website for alumnae and advisors. Collegiate chapters can register on the Alpha Sigma Alpha Officer Portal. Registration is $45 per person, which includes event materials, favors and lunch on Saturday. For more information on hotel locations, registration deadlines and event details, visit the District Day page on the Alpha Sigma Alpha website.
Dates and locations District Day 2011–12: Leading with passion District 2 – Nov. 12, 2011 – Valley Forge, PA District 3 – Nov. 5, 2011 – Pittsburgh District 4 – Feb. 25, 2012 – Richmond, VA District 5 – March 24, 2012 – Fort Wayne, IN District 6 – Oct. 22, 2011 – Memphis, TN District 7 – March 3, 2012 – Dallas District 8 – Nov. 12, 2011 – Milwaukee District 9 – Feb. 18, 2012 – Kansas City, MO
Mark your calendars for the second annual Foundation Chapter Challenge! During the 2010-–11 District Day events, 41 collegiate and alumnae chapters participated in a competitive fundraiser that raised nearly $10,000 for the Foundation. Chapter donations ranged from $100 to more than $1,000. The funds raised during these events continue to support scholarships for members and grants to the sorority for expanded programming and opportunities. Start planning your chapter fundraiser now. Fundraisers should be conducted prior to the District Day event and a two-to-three minute presentation should be created to highlight the fundraiser. Checks will be presented to trustees during the event, and prizes will be awarded in each district for the most creative fundraiser and the most money raised. All donations for the chapter challenge also go towards the chapter giving recognition levels. For more information about this exciting opportunity, contact Foundation Development Coordinator Naydia Spears Mills, , at nmills@alphasigmaalpha.org or call (317) 713-1924. SUMMER 2011
Topics covered ■ Working together as an advisory board ■ Applying Alpha Sigma Alpha’s recruitment philosophy on campus ■ Problem-solving with risk-management case studies ■ Guiding a chapter through standards processes ■ Advising financial management best practices Advisor certification itinerary 8:30–9:30 a.m. Check-in 9:00–9:30 a.m. District Day opening session 9:30–10:30 a.m. Leadership Institute programming 10:45–11:45 a.m. Advisor certification introduction 12:00–1:15 p.m. District Day lunch 1:30–4:30 p.m. Advisor certification programming 4:45–5:00 p.m. Advisor certification recognition ceremony
Advisor certification to coincide with each District Day event The certification programs include precertification and onsite training that together create comprehensive support to advisors. Registration materials will be available in August. Questions? Contact Volunteer & Alumnae Coordinator Rachael Candee at (317) 871-2920 or rcandee@alphasigmaalpha.org.
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legacies:
Following footsteps, creating paths B A R B J . W I L L I A M S O N , Historian
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Do you remember the apprehension and excitement of going through recruitment? Imagine attending recruitment events with the additional pressure of knowing that your aunt, sister, grandmother or mother belongs to the same sorority you are considering. “Will they like me? Do other women going through recruitment know that I’m a legacy? Will being a legacy help me? Will it hurt me?” A legacy is defined as a sister/step-sister, daughter/step-daughter, granddaughter/ step-granddaughter, niece/step-niece of an Alpha Sigma Alpha member. Legacies exist from chapter to chapter within Alpha Sigma Alpha and are truly special. Instead of trying to explain to family members terms like executive board, Phoenix Degree Service, exemplars or District Day, legacies can have meaningful conversations with moms, aunts, sisters or grandmothers about their experiences. Longwood to Roanoke “Being a legacy is pretty amazing,” said Logan Newton, , Roanoke College, VA. “It’s something that runs in my family, so I have a very high sense of pride in the sisterhood that other sisters may not have. It has made a connection between my mom and me that we didn’t have before.” Logan’s mom Susan Ramsey Newton, , Longwood University, VA, encouraged Logan to consider Greek life at Roanoke, but not in particular.
“The choice had to be hers. This is her life at Roanoke College, and she has to be happy with the decisions she makes there. Having said that, I couldn’t have been more pleased when she told me of her decision to join ! It’s a special bond we now have as ‘sisters’ as well as mother/daughter.” Susan saved her bulletin board, badge and other sorority memorabilia from her college days to share with Logan some day. Never did she dream she would be able to pass them down to her. Emporia State to Emporia State In addition to sharing college mementos, legacies have the opportunity to share actual events. Bernie Acinger West, , Emporia State University, KS, has two daughters following in her footsteps at Emporia State. This has allowed her to attend the alumnae sleepover, homecoming and mom’s day events with her daughters, Meredith and Mallory. “It’s a little surreal to think that both my daughters were attending my alma mater and both chose to be Alpha Sigs with more than 30 years separating us,” Bernie said. “It’s given me a common link to my mom and sister,” said Meredith. “It’s an honor to be a legacy, because most of the girls in the chapter can’t say that they are one. It makes you feel like you are more of a leader because you have had a ‘connection’ to this chapter for such a long time. It makes you want to make the SUMMER 2011
chapter a better place so this piece of your family will excel years down the road.” Longwood to Longwood Elizabeth Rammell Harris pledged Alpha Chapter in 1978 and her daughter Elizabeth Harris pledged Alpha Chapter in 2008. When daughter Elizabeth recently participated in her final Sanctuary Degree Service as a senior, she reflected on her legacy status. “It was really cool thinking the whole time that my mom has been through the same rituals and ceremonies that I have and pledged herself to the same values. At every initiation, I look through the book and find the signature of my mom.” Northwest Missouri since 1943 Keri Kemmerer doesn’t have to look very far to trace her roots, and her legacy doesn’t stop with just one person. Keri’s great aunt Mary Lee Wharton Polk joined in 1943, and Keri’s grandmother (Mary’s sister) Alice Wharton Arthur joined in 1948. Keri’s mother Jenny Arthur Burkhead became a member in 1974, and Keri followed in 1999. All of Keri’s relatives are members of Phi Phi Chapter at Northwest Missouri State University. Alice, Jenny and Keri even lived in the same residence hall. Keri enjoyed attending mother/ daughter lunches with her mom and grandmother with the Kansas City Alumnae Chapter when she was a little girl. “When I went through recruitment,” said Keri, “my mom seemed pretty open about checking out all the sororities on campus. She didn’t try to sway me one way or another. I later found out that she called her sorority sisters nightly, worried I would choose a different one.” Keri and Jenny appreciate the bond their family shares. “Every knows and understands that special bond that you share with your ‘sisters’,” Keri said. “Just imagine being able to share that bond with your mother. It’s just one more thing that makes us that much closer!” Beta Psi Chapter to Beta Psi Chapter Being a legacy is very special to Debbie Steele Herrick, , whose older sister Penny Steele Griffith joined the Beta Psi Chapter at Western Michigan University SUMMER 2011
two years before Debbie. Even though there was preferential treatment for legacies, Penny wanted Debbie to make her own decision, to join a sorority that was best for her. Debbie had no doubts her heart belonged to . “It was great sharing sorority activities and memories with Penny during our college years!” They shared the same dinner dances, fundraisers and Special Olympics activities. But the most poignant events they shared were Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, when their parents came to the banquet and sat between Penny and Debbie beaming with pride. Penny and Debbie continue sharing through their involvement in alumnae chapters and volunteering. Debbie was an advisor for Zeta Tau Chapter at Grand Valley State University, MI, for six years. One Christmas, Penny gave Debbie a brick ladybug doorstop, not for her, but for the Zeta Tau chapter house. “It was really cool to present it to the chapter and tell them about my sister and the special feeling that results from being a legacy,” said Debbie. Later, Debbie had the opportunity to take Penny through the Zeta Tau chapter house and show off the Beta Psi paddle that once hung in the Western Michigan University student union. The Beta Psi Chapter heritage lives on through legacies and volunteers at Zeta Tau Chapter. There’s a policy for that Every time a legacy becomes a member, it is a joyous occasion and our organization grows richer. On the flip side, if a legacy is not invited to become a member, pain, bitterness and disillusionment may be a result, not only for the legacy, but also for her alumna relative. For this reason, our chapters should give special consideration to each legacy during recruitment. Please refer to the national policy on legacies in the side bar. Mallory West, , sums up the meaning of being a legacy, “It’s so special to be a legacy because I am able to see the lifetime impact has on a woman. Being an Alpha Sig does not stop the minute we graduate and leave college. It is a lifetime commitment and that is what my mom taught me, and how Meredith is also choosing to live her life.”
A legacy is defined as: Sister/step-sister, Daughter/step-daughter, Granddaughter/step-granddaughter Niece/step-niece of an Alpha Sigma Alpha member. Legacies are considered important to the success of our sorority. Chapter members are strongly encouraged to get to know and give extra consideration to legacies during the recruitment process. Extending an invitation to membership to a legacy not only enables a chapter to gain a new member, it often revives the interest and loyalty of an alumna. Membership, however, is by mutual selection, and it is important to encourage a legacy to choose a group that suits her own needs, and the chapter to select appropriate membership. The ultimate decision as to whether or not a legacy is extended an invitation to membership is that of the collegiate chapter. 1. A chapter must invite a legacy to the first round of invitational parties and when necessary the second round of invitational parties to assure the legacy has been met by a representative cross-section of the chapter members. 2. Any legacy invited to a preference party must be placed on the chapter’s first bid list. 3. A chapter must call the district facilitator or recruitment coaching team leader prior to releasing the legacy. The national volunteer will review the policy with the chapter and discuss the pros and cons of releasing a legacy so that the chapter understands the potential affects it may have. The chapter president must call the sister/step-sister, mother/ step-mother, grandmother/step-grand mother or aunt/step-aunt of the legacy and tell her of the decision. The call must be made prior to the time the invitations are extended and shall be made in the presence of the recruitment or chapter advisor. 4. If a legacy does not attend an invitational party on her own or chooses not to participate in Alpha Sigma Alpha’s recruitment, the chapter is not obligated to place her on the chapter’s bid list. PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMa ALPHA
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Summertime and the cooking is easy BY STACEY RESNICK R Y C H L E W S K I , Phoenix Contributor Many of us find it difficult to put dinner on the table night after night. The ability to plan a menu, find the recipe and organize the ingredients requires time, time that many of us spend doing hundreds of other things. But creating delicious meals does not need to be a daunting task. In today’s technology age, there is no reason to be intimidated by mealtime again. Yes, there are easier solutions like delivery, ordering take out or eating out, but all of these alternate solutions can be costly, fattening and unfulfilling. There are several solutions I can suggest that will take the guess work out of meal preparation, make mealtime fun and have your friends and family stand up and say “wow.” I have a degree in food administration and have managed to take my passion for food into a career path. But please believe me when I say, I am a huge fan of recipes requiring less than five ingredients or that take less than 30 minutes to prepare. When it comes to cooking, no one wants to be a martyr. Everyone is seeking the same time saving tips to bring into their home and mealtime routine. The Food Channel has created an entire cult following of closet “chefs” who love to cook, but there is also a following of people who love to watch others cook for pure entertainment factor. Hosts like Rachel Ray have made an entire career out of creating recipes that are 30 minutes or less. Her books and Food Network TV show attempt to demonstrate just how easy it is to open your pantry and whip up a fast, easy and delicious meal.
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Pantry ‘must haves’ The first step is to identify those key ingredients that are “must haves” in your pantry today. I have created a list of the top 10 items that every pantry should stock: Olive oil: Healthier choice of oil for cooking and packed with flavor, antioxidants and when consumed moderately, better-for-you claims to fend off heart disease. Pasta: Quick, easy, inexpensive to make and available in a variety of shapes and sizes, whole wheat is a better-for-you choice and delivers a rich nutty flavor to any dish. Most are dry, but I encourage you to try varieties like gnocchi and tortellini. Canned tomatoes: Perfect for soups, stews and a quick pasta sauce starter. Keep a variety like stewed, diced, crushed and paste. Garlic: Versatile because it can be roasted, sautéed, diced, sliced, minced, crushed and even grilled. Perfect for any cuisine. Another heart healthy, better-for-you pantry staple. Canned meat or fish: Tuna, salmon and chicken are a great addition to many pasta dishes. This protein has a great shelf life and can be made into casseroles, croquettes and salads. Rice: Opt for brown rice rather than enriched white rice for all of the extra nutrients. Anyway you look at it, rice can be a perfect base for a casserole, side dish or even dessert. When paired with other pantry staples, you can create complete meals with this starch. Broth or stock: Available in chicken, beef and vegetable, this is a fantastic way to dress up a rice side dish. Perfect for making sauce bases and better than water in stews. Can also be used for creation of home-made soups. Jams, jellies and preserves: Not only for breakfast, but a great addition to appetizers and desserts. These sweet spreads compliment toast, crackers, cookies and cheeses. Canned vegetables and beans: Always handy to have kidney or garbanzo beans on hand to add a little lift to salad, mushrooms are a great addition to skillet meals and peas are wonderful in casseroles. SUMMER 2011
Vinegar: May be used in dressings, marinades and sauces. Your choices are far more extensive than white vinegar. Explore apple cider, red wine and the variety growing in popularity, balsamic. Technology in the kitchen I have also found some great websites that have very easy and delicious recipes that make you look like a chef. Realsimple.com and Campbellskitchen.com are two such sites that offer recipes for every meal occasion of the day. Kraftfoods.com has another website that uses a combination of prepared ingredients like mustards, stuffing mix and salad dressings along side of typical ingredients that help reduce your time in the kitchen. Many of these sites, like Kraftfoods.com, also have weekly emails you can sign up to receive to help you on your meal planning journey with featured seasonal ideas to improve your efficiency in the kitchen and maximize your time outside of the kitchen. Don’t be afraid to try a new app for your smart phone or other mobile device to make menu planning easier. There are many inexpensive or free cooking apps that provide recipes, calorie counters and grocery lists to make your culinary tasks easier to execute. Write a grocery list for the farmers market Buying local? Eating seasonal? Have you taken advantage of your local farmers market? This is a wonderful way to see what is in season and how to get the freshest ingredients for those easy dishes. Do not get carried away with all the pretty colors, just stick to what you know and what your recipes call for, otherwise you will end up with a bunch of stuff in the refrigerator that you have no idea what to do with, like daikon radish, Jerusalem artichoke or celery root. These are all very yummy and a great way to add variety to your menus, but the best way to get started is keeping it simple. I like to say, baby steps. The crock pot comeback Remember the crock pot? The crock pot is making a huge resurgence. The
secret of the crock pot is that, with only a few minutes of preparation time, you drop the ingredients into the pot, add some seasoning, plug it in and in a matter of hours your home smells like you had a visiting chef in your kitchen all day. Your investment in a crock pot can be as minimal as $19 to as extravagant as $279. The choice is yours. Many less expensive cuts of meat can deliver an unbelievable meal in a crock pot, with little to no effort on your part. Get over your neurosis about leaving your home with an appliance on all day. Just make certain you plug the crock pot into a ground fault outlet and cook all day. You will be surprised what this handy kitchen appliance can do for you. Kids in the kitchen One more solution I have for making mealtime an event is try to get help in the kitchen from your family members, spouses, significant others and kids. These folks are all willing to help if you ask. Husbands love the grill. Kids love to get their hands dirty, and there is a sense of accomplishment when everyone pitches in to get the job done. Many kid friendly recipes can be found online. Don’t forget that your neighborhood library is a fantastic source of recipe ideas too. So go ahead, try it. Fill your pantry, explore the local farmers market, surf the Internet and start off small. Offer to bring a delicious pasta salad to the next block party or picnic. Test out a new appetizer or surprise your family with a sumptuous casserole. Good luck and good cooking.
Stacey is currently the Brand and Business Manager for Kraft Salad Dressings and Good Seasons. She has been with Kraft Foods in the Chicago area for 12 years. Stacey earned a bachelor’s degree in food administration from Rochester Institute of Technology, NY, and an MBA at Otterbein University, OH. PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMa ALPHA
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D
iscovering & maintaining
personal balance
To this day, so many of us can relate to that feeling we had as youngsters, sitting cross-legged in front of the television set thinking, “I wish my life held balance more steadily.” We, at The Leadership Institute — Women with Purpose (The LI), define life balance as: accepting the things you have to do, spending time on the things you want to do and eliminating the things you feel you should do that waste your time or are not truly necessary. Sound easy? Not usually so. Our philosophy is that life balance is a mere 25 percent time management and planning, contrary to what many may think. The majority of successful life balance (75 percent) is discovering your perspective on your life and aligning that with your values. It’s an ‘inside job’ It is essential to keep in mind that life balance is an “inside job.” What does that mean? Life balance looks different for each individual. Consider your journey toward discovering life balance as a path
BY THE LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE — WOMEN WITH PURPOSE Phoenix Contributors
! z i u q e h t Take In The LI’s “Art of Balance”
When you were a little girl, did you ever watch the young women performing on the balance beam in the Olympics and think to yourself, “I wish I could be that poised, focused and relaxed in my balance without teetering from side to side, sometimes even clumsily toppling over?” Perhaps you watched in awe as Mary Lou Retton or Shawn Johnson took to the beam for their astonishingly beautiful performances.
workshop, a self-assessment is self-administered to guide participants in their own discovery of life balance. Take five minutes to complete the sample of this assessment below on how you typically behave. (Trust us! You’ll be glad you fit this in your schedule.) Circle ‘T’ if the statement is true for you, ‘F’ if the statement is false for you and ‘S’ if the statement seems somewhat like you.
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to honoring yourself and avoid fulfilling external expectations. “To be honest, the theory of life balance as an ‘inside job’ is an idea I have always struggled with,” said Erin Correa, executive director of The LI. “I often find myself advising others to work less, sleep more or spend additional time taking care of themselves. It is in those moments I am reminded that maintaining my own life balance is a continuous journey.” Noting that life balance is a personal journey and not simply a destination, can bring peace of mind when striving to achieve your own balance. Like you may have heard in relation to sports, working toward life balance is 90 percent mental and only 10 percent physical. When you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed in your endeavors, envision yourself accomplishing your end result. This will have a positive effect on your mood and outcome. “Despite the fact that I frequently teach courses on this topic, I don’t have all the answers,” Correa said. “What looks like life balance in my life may be completely
How to say no gracefully 1. Be firm and not overly defensive or apologetic. 2. Don’t lead someone on by telling them you will get back to them when you don’t intend to. 3. Offer an alternative, for example: ■ “Can we discuss other ways I may be able to contribute?” ■ “Can we get lunch next week instead?” 4. Be honest and don’t make excuses. different from what balance looks like in the life of someone else. Balance depends on what is important to you. It’s about living your life in congruence with your personal values and making time for the activities and people you love, no matter what anyone else may think.” Just say ‘no’ “Simple it may be, but easy it is not,” says Kyle Witham, training and development manager at The LI. “It’s difficult to say no to opportunities and requests from others. Often times, guilt arises as a result of feeling like you need to do everything and be
everything to everyone. But when you constantly say ‘yes’ to others, you don’t have room in your life to say ‘yes’ to yourself. Try to only say ‘yes’ to opportunities that fit in your life. If something doesn’t fit, say ‘no’ without excuses or feeling bad about it. It is your life; the only one responsible for what you do with it is you.” It’s especially important to say ‘no’ to opportunities extended to you if it will force you to miss out on doing something beneficial for yourself. Now is the time to take control of your life and your time in order to perform at your best and maintain life balance.
I often feel like I am doing things I think I should do and I want to do or enjoy doing. There are parts of my life or people in my life that get the attention they need and I want to give them. I am not overwhelmed or anxious. I know what direction to take my life. I laugh often. I take care of myself physically, in a way that supports my health and well-being. I have order and organization in my life. I am the same person on the inside as I am on the outside. I do not worry about the future. I am not a perfectionist.
T T T T T T T T T T
F F F F F F F F F F
S S S S S S S S S S
Tally your results. If you notice many of the 10 statements you answered were false or only somewhat like you, perhaps some additional examination on the balance in your life couldn’t hurt. However, keep in mind life balance is an inside job and there are no right or wrong answers to this assessment. The results are only intended to provide a framework to begin thinking about your current level of life balance. The best way to begin this analysis is to think about how you spend your days. Does it seem you’re spending your time on things you have to do, want to do, should do or simply waste time doing? Try to distinguish between the have-tos and the shoulds. Have-tos are things that are imperative to your survival. Shoulds, on the other hand, are things you feel you should do based on external influences, but you don’t necessarily want to do. Take some time to examine how you would like to spend your time. Evaluate your values from your perspective on what life balance means to you. Sounds simple, but how do you eliminate the shoulds and time wasters from your schedule? As an important tool in The LI’s Balancing Act of Wearing Many Hats explains, it is simple, “Just say NO.” SUMMER 2011
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Members of The Leadership Institute — Women with Purpose staff. From left: Erin Fischer, director of training services, Danielle Groves, marketing and program manager, Erin Correa, executive director, and Kyle Witham, training and development manager.
The Leadership Institute – Women with Purpose Inc. was organized by the Alpha Gamma Delta Fraternity and the Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation as a 501 (c)(3) organization. The Leadership Institute — Women with Purpose helps women reach their potential by providing the tools to develop personal and professional leadership skills. The organization is committed to building a community of learners with whom to exchange ideas, experiences and resources. For more information about The LI and specifically on life balance, please visit The LI’s web site www.theleadershipinstitute-wwp.org.
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The LI offers five tactics to guide women through this journey of taking control in our “Art of Balance” workshop. One of the most important tactics is to communicate your needs. Do you have a support group including family, friends or co-workers? Let this circle of people know that you’re striving for life balance. Not only will this allow them to see and respect your mission, but it will help to hold you accountable and see the results as they appear. Your first step toward taking control of your life in an effort to achieve life balance should be to set an action plan. Your action plan will be most effective by composing SMART goals to reach your objective. What is a SMART goal? A SMART goal is specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely. These goals will allow you and your support system to continuously assess your progress. Director of Training Services at The LI, Erin Fischer, strives to take control of her life and maintain balance by seeking out opportunities that give her perspective and focus on what is truly important to her. “In my life, like many others, I tend to seek out ways to keep busy,” Fischer explained. “No matter what it is, I find that I always have something on my plate. Recently, however, I gained a true sense of perspective when I started volunteering for Make-A-Wish. I was assigned to a rush wish, which means that the child I would be working with didn’t have a lot of time left. As I set up the wish and met with the parents, I felt myself letting go of some things that I was worrying and stressing about in my life. Suddenly, a spotless house and a silly argument didn’t carry the same weight. My priorities became much more focused — family, friends, laughter — that is what is truly important each and every day to me. It was amazing the amount of focus this little guy gave me.”
Find a way to re-focus
Here is our challenge to you as your begin on your path toward personal life balance. Discover a daily or weekly re-focus that will bring you some perspective. Based off of the evaluation of your values and how you really want to spend your time, you should have insight as to what type of activities may provide this re-focus to assist in taking control of your life. It is essential to keep in mind one very important theory about life balance. It is and always will be a life-long process, and there may be times in your life when you are more in balance than others. Life balance can be a struggle for women at every age. Recognizing this, The LI has composed, in consultation with Christine Hassler, Finding Life Balance & Direction, a journal to internally guide women toward improving life balance and direction. Our guided journaling experience provides parameters for journaling about what you may find most beneficial in your life. Find more information on how to obtain your copy of our journal on www.lulu.com. The LI conducted a survey of more than 700 women, which concluded with data supporting an overwhelming need for understanding how to find life balance and direction. From those childhood years when we sat in awe as the Olympic gymnasts twisted, turned and flipped on the beam without missing a beat, to our more mature years of ever-so-carefully striving to maintain balance . . . remember to continue to gently put one foot in front of the other, take one step after another and visualize your values bringing your life to its most balanced state.
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Theta Omicron Chapter installed March 19, 2011
B Y M E G A N B R O W E R ,
Leadership Consultant For the women in the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) Colony, the weekend of March 19 meant accomplishing their goal that started in August 2010. The previous seven months focused on recruitment, membership education and the building of a strong sisterhood. That Alpha Sigma Alpha sisterhood was felt on a much larger scale with the involvement of women from across District 9 and Kansas City during their installation weekend. Members from the Zeta Eta Chapter at Rockhurst University, MO, the Eta Eta Chapter at Pittsburg State University, KS, and the Epsilon Epsilon Chapter at Emporia State University, KS, participated in the installation weekend activities. The Theta Omicron advisory board members and other volunteers also attended the festivities. The chapter was also supported by the installation team, which included Vice President of Operations Melissa Koch Merriam, , Membership Growth Coordinator Katie Matis, , Colony Development Coordinator Aly Campbell, , and Leadership Consultant Megan Brower,
. On Friday evening, March 18, the Theta Omicron Chapter had the opportunity to celebrate with family and friends and representatives from other campus organizations at a reception. Later that evening, the women hosted a get acquainted party, during which the Theta Omicron Chapter was able to spend time with the Zeta Eta Chapter from Rockhurst University, a group of women who have formed a close relationship with the Theta Omicron Chapter members. The installation team was also a part of this event, SUMMER 2011
which included singing Alpha Sigma Alpha songs and playing games. Saturday, March 19, 2011, the Theta Omicron Chapter took part in the Sanctuary Degree Service, the Service for Installation of a New Chapter and Installation of Collegiate Chapter Officers. A white luncheon was held after the ritual ceremonies. Aly Campbell, , colony development coordinator, served as toastmistress for the luncheon where the chapter received gifts from national council and Alpha Sigma Alpha collegiate and alumnae chapters. A formal banquet was held Saturday night. Families were able to join the women of the Theta Omicron Chapter in celebrating their achievements individually, and as a group. Megan Brower,
, leadership consultant, served as the toastmistress and Shelby Coxon, , the assistant director for student involvement at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, shared her thoughts about being a founding sister as the keynote speaker. The traditional “Aspire, Seek, Attain� toasts were given by Mary Rae Staples, president of the Zeta Eta Chapter, Heather Riley, , president of the Kansas City Alumnae Chapter, and Melissa Koch Merriam, , vice president of operations. Megan and Melissa led the ceremony to commemorate the unveiling of the Theta Omicron charter. The weekend was an unforgettable experience for the Theta Omicron Chapter, the other Alpha Sigma Alphas and guests who were able to share it with them. Nicole Netti, a founding sister of Theta Omicron Chapter said, “Installation was an unforgettable time that I felt really bonded me to my sisters. Being a founding sister of such an amazing organization is such a great feeling, and I couldn’t be happier about joining Alpha Sigma Alpha.�
New initiates of Theta Omicron Chapter: Amanda Argo Emily Bennett Katie Bruns Sarah Bush Morgan Butler Lauren Clifton Alice Collins Sara Conwell Jessica Day RaeAnne Eckert Amanda Enriquez-Norris Terrissa Ford Anna Forrester Amy Goodwin Kayla Griffin Stacia Handley Amber Harrington Megan Hohensinner Sharon James Bethany Jordan Crystal King Brittany Lavely Kenna Marx Nicole Netti Tracy Okojie Amanda Osborne Lydia Parker Amelia Pinnell Victoria Poplin Amber Reinert Bethany Reyna Bethany Rippy Brenda Scharnhorst Brianna Sensenich Jennifer Shea Samantha Shellenberger Jaime Sinden Autumn Smith Katie Sullivan Laura Thompson Kate Young New members of Theta Omicron Chapter: Kirstie Smith Nicole Teel Gifts to the chapter were received from: Zeta Omicron Chapter Zeta Zeta Chapter Theta Nu Chapter Phi Phi Chapter Zeta Mu Chapter Epsilon Epsilon Chapter Cincinnati Alumnae Chapter Greater Kansas City Alumnae Chapter Washington, DC, Alumnae Chapter
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Finding balance through technology B Y K I M B A Y M A , a n d KRISTINE PLOURDE GOLDEN, Phoenix Contributors Alpha Sigma Alpha members all share the core value of balance and strive to attain it in everyday life. In today’s world, many websites and online applications can help simplify and balance your life. With access to the Internet, one can find more information than ever before, but how do we comb through everything to find the most accurate and reliable resources? Technology is rapidly changing, but is becoming more accessible to everyone. Whether using a home computer or a SmartPhone, there is a website or program application for everyone. This article will focus on Internet websites and some applications that can help simplify and balance your life. Calendaring, invites & to-do lists To help keep you, your family — or a group on track, electronic calendaring makes information timely, and can provide instant updates. Websites like Google Calendar* allow you to share your schedule with other Google users. You can also set up reoccurring events, such as birthdays and anniversaries, so you never forget an important date again. Since Google Calendar is web-based, you can access the information anytime from anywhere with a simple Internet connection or from your SmartPhone. There is no need to lug around a thick day-planner anymore. Do you feel like you forget a lot? There are many websites that help those on the go “remember the milk.” SmartPhone apps like RemembertheMilk.com* and reQall.com* are online resources to help you stay organized, with labels, tags and other coding that help you. These even integrate into your Google Calendar. If you are looking to celebrate and want to invite your friends and family, try PaperlessPost.com or Evite.com*. These online resources allow you to skip the post office and electronically send out your event details to your guest list. Evite also has a mobile website, easily viewable from your SmartPhone. *indicates this technology is available through a smartphone application
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Finances Check to see if your financial institution has a website or mobile application. Most banks now offer online account access where you can make transactions or schedule bills to pay. You can go green and completely paperless. Wonder where all your extra money goes every pay check? If you are juggling multiple finances, such as bank accounts, credit cards, investments or loans, there are sites like Mint.com* and Learnvest.com to keep your budget on track. These websites create a comprehensive view of all of your assets and debts and can even generate a report on your spending. These two examples have Internet portals, as well as SmartPhone apps. Health & fitness When you are constantly on the go, it’s sometimes hard to watch what you eat. Websites like MyNetDiary.com* or caloriecount.about.com* will help you track what you’re eating to help you make better choices about your calorie intake; they offer an online portal and a SmartPhone app. Are you looking to track your fitness progress? Websites like DailyBurn.com* let you record your workouts, provides nutrition information and exercise plans. MapMyRun.com* uses GPS technology to track your run distance and time and even charts your route. Both of these sites can be synced with a SmartPhone for instant access. For a holistic look at your well-being, try MyLifeRecord.com*, an app that uses software to keep track of your medical records, including x-rays, ultrasounds and MRIs. It also tracks medications, whether it is prescribed or over the counter. Online shopping Do you hate waiting in long lines, or fighting at the mall to get those great deals? To shop in the comfort of your pajamas, there are hundreds of options for online shopping. Retailers like Amazon.com* and Esty.com* offer a diverse list of products from home goods to hand crafts. Many online retailers also offer free shipping, and sometimes free returns, which add to the convenience of
clickable storefronts. Amazon.com also offers a shopping app, and members can use one-click checkout (a little dangerous for your Mint.com shopping budget). For those really on the go, there are also several grocery stores that offer delivery service. Check with your local grocer, or try Peapod.com* which offers virtual grocery shopping. Deliveries can be scheduled in two-four-hour windows. Delivery is also very handy if you order heavy items. Bargain hunting It is just as easy to “save” as it is to “buy” online. You can find promotional codes and coupons for retail stores with a simple search on either Retailmenot.com* or Couponcabin.com*. Many browsers have plug-in capabilities with these sites that will pull-up promotional codes while you shop. Another discount trend is “daily deal” websites like Groupon.com* and LivingSocial.com* which, negotiate huge discounts (usually 50-90 percent off) with popular businesses. These sites use group buying power to negotiate great deals for consumers. To even further simplify how you get your “daily deals,” check out Dealradar.com* to have all local deals sent to you in one email. If you consider yourself a “bargain hunter,” there are sites like Slickdeals.net and woot.com. Both of these sites offer great deals for those who are willing to sift through the “bargain bins” of the Internet. Vacation planning Looking to book your next trip? There are endless sites to find great airfare, hotel and rental car deals. Airfarewatchdog.com breaks down the best deals out there for air travel, and as an added bonus, you can indicate what cities you want fare alerts for and get instant email notifications when a deal is available. Another site to check out is Kayak.com, which allows you to compare travel deals across hundreds of travel sites in one search. Airlines such as Southwest.com* not only offer economy flights, but also vacation and cruise packages. SUMMER 2011
Using an internet search, check to see if your destination has a convention and visitors’ bureau or “cvb.” Most cities and countries offer free information online, such as visitphilly.com or bahamas.com. Some of these sites also offer a reservation portal so you can get the best recommendation and even vacation deals. Multitasking & organization Many Alpha Sigma Alphas volunteer or run their own business. More than ever, the Internet offers tools to assist. Google Docs* offer free spreadsheets and documents and allows you to share documents and track changes with other Google users. For those with small businesses, consider using BaseCampHQ.com* to help manage your projects and your staff. This site provides a portal to share documents and provides an easy to manage communication system — all in one interface. FreeConferenceCall.com and Vyew.com offer free-of-charge conference lines and online collaboration — making working from multiple locations easy and cost-free. Skype.com* allows you to make free Internet phone calls and video conferences, allowing you to stay connected no matter where you are. Are you looking to find that convenient time to meet? Use Doodle.com to propose different dates and times to your group so you can see when everyone is free. Other sites to check out include Evernote.com* and Simplenote.com*. These sites allow you to capture notes, web pages, photos, screenshots and other data and keep them organized. You can share your “notes” with others and never lose anything you find online again. Staying connected — social media Today the world is more connected than ever due to the growth of social media, the use of web-based and mobile technologies to turn communication into interactive dialogue. The three big sites to consider joining include: Facebook*, LinkedIn*, and Twitter*. Many employers are now using LinkedIn for recruitment, so keeping an up-to-date profile opens SUMMER 2011
up your job prospects and network opportunities. Facebook is a great way to stay connected with friends, family and sorority sisters, while Twitter is an easy way to keep up with micro blogs. If you already are a social media fan, consider using a social media dashboard to keep all of your accounts in one place. Threadsy, TweetDeck* and HootSuite* are free tools to help you manage your social networks.
Disclaimer: When joining any of these sites, it is important to investigate all privacy settings and make sure you are keeping private information non-public. There is always risk of “over-sharing” and online etiquette is continually evolving (emilypost.com* is a great resource for etiquette, and yes there is an app.) Technology can be overwhelming, but it does not have to be. When you embrace the tools available to you, it can make your life more manageable and balanced. Incorporating the sites and apps most useful and practical for you will save you time and allow you to focus on living each day to its ultimate good. PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMa ALPHA
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F oundation news
Foundation celebrates 25 years
Foundation names new officers and welcomes new trustees to the board for 2011-13 Chairman – Lori Scott, Vice Chairman – Barb Williamson, Secretary – Susanne Withsosky Alfonso, Treasurer – Anita Reichling, -B
B Y J E S S I C A M C K E N N A , Foundation Chairman 2008–11 It is hard to believe that on Oct. 23, 2011, the Foundation will celebrate its 25th year of working to provide support to the sorority through charitable giving. Since 1986, the Foundation has grown tremendously, all due to the incredible generosity of Foundation donors. Take a look at all that we have to celebrate. â–
New trustee – Alyssa Klementisz Guers, New trustee – Kelly Gillespie Skinner,
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More than $500,000 in grants and scholarships have been awarded to the sorority and individual members as well as non-members. The Emma Coleman Frost Leadership Development Institute continues to be a dynamic personal leadership development program supported in part by Foundation grants. The first scholarship endowment by Lois V. Beers, , inspired many others. Since 1990, the number of Foundation scholarships has grown to a total of 26 that are awarded annually. Foundation grants for District Day programming by The Leadership
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Institute — Women with Purpose have provided opportunities for volunteers, alumnae and collegians to attend professional leadership training. 1,800 individuals have had gifts made in their honor to the Foundation generating more than $100,000 in donations in the last five years. The Foundation has awarded more than 350 scholarships. The second biennial Red Tie Dinner, a new Foundation tradition, helped raise more than $30,000 at the 2010 national convention & leadership conference. Since its creation four years ago, more than 600 collegiate members have joined or renewed membership in the 1901 Society. The Foundation launched its own Facebook and Twitter pages, as well as Giving Matters, a e-newsletter to keep donors informed and connected.
The best part about this list is that these accomplishments are only the beginning. Thank you for 25 fabulous years. Your support secures the future of Alpha Sigma Alpha for decades to come.
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D istrict news
1. The Alpha Chapter at Longwood University, VA, on spring bid day 2011. 2. The newly charted Greater Jacksonville, FL, Alumnae Chapter gathered for one of their first events. Clockwise from left: Neve Perry, daughter of Jesse Beck Perry, Jesse Beck Perry, , Amy Swift , , Jane Meisel Chafin, , Katherine Gneiting George,
, Emily Hickok Phan, , Joan Boylan Bacon, , Adair Bates Harris, , and Cory Lexo Ferreira , .
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3. The Gamma Iota Chapter, Rochester Institute of Technology, NY, cheered on eight of their sisters who took the Polar Bear Plunge in February 2011. 4. Members of the Philadelphia Metro Alumnae Chapter celebrated their 19th anniversary during a brunch held at Derek’s Restaurant in Manayunk, PA, on Feb. 27, 2011. 5. The Cincinnati Alumnae Chapter members gathered for their 60-year anniversary celebration on March 12, 2011.
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D istrict news
Sisterhood 1. The Des Moines Alumnae Event held a BINGO fundraising event on March 27, 2011. The event raised funds for the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation and the S. June Smith Center. From left: Mandy Havel, , Ainslee Barnes, Heidi Onstot Johnson, , Stacy Williams Horner, , Nancy Nelson McGraw, , Drea Milobar Iseminger, , and Faith Chapman McGee,
. 2. Members of the Midnight Sun Alumnae Chapter take a moment for a photo after their January 2011 meeting. From left: Renee Dixon, , Demonica Chong, , Taryn Stein, , Aisha Merced,
, Amanda Martinez, , Nancianna Derrick Schaaper, , Angela Waalkes, , and Kim Dennis, 3. The Zeta Nu Chapter at Moravian University, PA, was the winner of their division in the 2011 snow bowl, a six-on-six flag football tournament to benefit the Special Olympics held at New Meadowlands Stadium in New Jersey. Bottom row from left: Lauren Lavelle, Erica Stiefel, Alyssa Howerter, Melissa Marazas, Liz Kussler and Kinga Wang. Middle row from left: Maddie Webb, Lauren Kowalczyk, Jessica Puckett, Kelsey Ashworth and Lacey Neff. Top row from left: Selena Agnor, Carolyn Latkovich, Tori Clark, Liz Adshead, Samantha Valentini and Lindsay Henkelman.
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D istrict news
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4 4. The Richmond Alumnae Chapter, VA, held their annual cookie exchange at the home of Jennifer St. Germain Murphy, , on Dec. 12, 2010. First row from left; Lynne Rachal Chambers, , and Frances Jobson Franics, . Second row from left: Jennifer St. Germain Murphy, , Jamie Doran Jones, , Jennifer Levesque, , Heatherann Gallagher McCreary, , and Laura Burke Allin, . 5. The Theta Mu Chapter, Valdosta State University, GA, during their retreat in February 2011. 6. On spring bid day 2011, three Zeta Upsilon Chapter members, Lynchburg College, VA, decorated new member T.J. Stokes’ car to welcome her into Alpha Sigma Alpha. From left: Megan Little, Jessica Berry and Rachel Clubb Markham. 7. Members of the Beta Nu Chapter, Murray State University, KY, before they take the Polar Bear Plunge for Special Olympics. 8. Members of the Beta Lambda Chapter, University of Central Arkansas, wait to greet their new members on bid day spring 2011.
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N ews & events
Fraternity Communications Association award Alpha Sigma Alpha won an award at the 2011 annual meeting of the Fraternity Communications Association (FCA.) We were awarded second place in the persuasive essay category for Cindy Kelley’s message from the president in the winter 2010 issue of the Phoenix, “A wish for a courageous new year.”
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Extension and colony update Alpha Sigma Alpha has four new colonies lined up for the 2011–12 academic year. In fall 2011, Alpha Sigma Alpha will establish colonies at West Texas A&M University in Canyon, TX, and Southern Connecticut State University in New Haven, CT. The colony at West Texas A&M will be part of expansion recruitment, joining a strong Panhellenic community of Chi Omega, Delta Zeta and Zeta Tau Alpha. At Southern Connecticut State, the local sorority Kappa Delta Xi will join Alpha Sigma Alpha. Kappa Delta Xi is known for their passion in community service work for Camp Rising Sun in Rocky Hill, CT. In spring 2012, Alpha Sigma Alpha will be establishing colonies at Capital University in Columbus, OH, and the University at Buffalo in Buffalo, NY. Alpha Sigma Alpha will be affiliating with Zeta Pi Lambda at Capital University, a local sorority who consistently holds the highest sorority GPA and has been at Capital University since its establishment of Greek life in the 1960s. At the University at Buffalo, Alpha Sigma Alpha will be joining an impressive Panhellenic community by affiliating with Delta Xi Omega, a local sorority that has more than 200 alumnae and participates annually in the Buffalo News Kids Day. Alpha Sigma Alpha is thrilled about our upcoming colony opportunities. If you want to know more about how to get involved with these colonies, contact Membership Growth Coordinator Katie Matis at kmatis@alphasigmaalpha.org.
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From the Archives
1949 READER’S GUIDE The Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha, the official quarterly publication of the Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority, has been published continuously since 1914. Its mission is to reflect the character of the organization and its members and to communicate the goals and direction of the sorority and Foundation.
Contact us Post us: The Phoenix, Alpha Sigma Alpha, 9002 Vincennes Circle, Indianapolis, IN 46268 E-mail us: ebutts@alphasigmaalpha.org Call us: (317) 871-2920; for magazine questions, select ext. 20 Fax us: (317) 871-2924 Visit us: www.alphasigmaalpha.org
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Tulsa alumnae have the honor of meeting National President Wilma Wilson Sharp, ZZ (seated center with corsage), Jan. 14, 1949.
How to receive the Phoenix All collegiate members and alumnae members receive the Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha. Individual copies are mailed to each member’s permanent address and a few are sent to the chapter editor or the chapter house.
Parents and guardians Your daughter’s magazine is being sent to your address while she is in college. We hope you enjoy reading it too. If she is not in college, or is no longer living at home, please send us her new permanent address (see below).
How to change an address You can send address changes to the mailing address listed above or e-mail your old and new addresses to asa@alphasigmaalpha.org. You may also call us at (317) 871-2920, ext. 110.
How to get published
How to send a letter to the editor
Collegiate chapters and alumnae chapters: Each editor is a correspondent for the Phoenix magazine. View deadlines and photo requirements listed below. Chapter updates and photos must be submitted via e-mail to ebutts@alphasigmaalpha.org. If you have news about an individual alumna, please send information to ebutts@alphasigmaalpha.org or send information to the address above.
We always welcome your comments— both criticism and praise—about this publication. E-mail ebutts@ alphasigmaalpha.org or send mail to Editor, Alpha Sigma Alpha, 9002 Vincennes Circle, Indianapolis, IN 46268.
General deadlines for submissions Winter issue: Sept. 10 Spring issue: Dec. 10 Summer issue: March 10 Fall issue: June 10
Photo requirements Please e-mail only high resolution photos at least 500kb in size. Only pictures that are of good quality can be used. Pictures that are blurry or have been scanned do not produce well and therefore cannot be used. Pictures should tell a story of what is happening.
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“I love the sisterhood and community that I have found in Alpha Sigma Alpha. The sisters that I have met in both collegiate chapters that I was a member of, as well as my alumnae chapter, have truly become my second family. I joined the Arista Alumnae Association so that I could give back to Alpha Sigma Alpha and help aid in its continued growth. I value my experiences within the organization and know that my continued support through the Arista Alumnae Association will help impact the experiences of other members.� Anna Slaughter,
District 5 finance coaching team leader Mid Michigan Crown Alumnae Chapter secretary