Asa phoenix vol 74 no 3 spring 1989

Iof Alpha Sigma Alpha

Put

AEA on top

Spring 1989 1

From the Editor

Alpha Sigma Alpha brings hazing out of the closet

by Nancy I.Z. Reese National Editor

When I was a pledge 20 years ago, we didn't think it was hazing.

The pledge books, which we were required to carry, were small and very subduedly decorated.

Pledges were told to stand when a member or alumna entered the room, and we ran small errands for the initiates. My greatest embarrassment was when I was "kidnapped" for the initiation and members didn't find the white dress I had borrowed for the occasion. I still have the picture of me in my slip and the jacket borrowed from someone else's outfit.

The initiated members said the chapter didn't believe in hazing.

There were no line-ups, no blindfolding, no hell week and no forced road trips. At least two of the requirements during my pledgeship (a dry pledgeship and hours in the student union) were dropped the following year when someone pointed out that initiated members were unwilling to abide by the same requirements.

It was the late '60s, when young men were being sent to Vietnam, and Kent State and burnt bras

were on the horizon. It was also a time when rushees, let alone pledges, were hard to come by, and the chapter needed to initiate every member it pledged. Looking back, the chapter was a prime candidate for Elaine Fuerst's non-hazing ladder.

One of my fellow pledges demanded to be hazed (ever hear of the "recite the Greek alphabet while holding a burning match" trick?). She was told by members that the chapter "didn't do those kind of things. " What would have been our attitude towards those members and the chapter if they had been involved in heavy hazing? Suzanne Kilgannon makes an excellent point when she says you need look no further than hazing to find the root cause of apathy of initiated members towards the chapter.

But to remember a chapter as it was 20 years ago is not to know it as it is now. Because the membership in a chapter turns over every four years there is a very short collective memory. What is considered tradition may in fact be only four years old, only in existence as long as the oldest senior has been a member.

If your current pledge class uses the new standardized pledge pro-

gram and the rest of the chapter follows the guidelines outlined by Kim Meyer, four years from now, the chapter will claim non-hazing as its tradition.

What has happened to hazing over the past 20 years? It comes and goes in some chapters and in others it is like a cancer that no one wants to talk about but refuses to eliminate.

Alpha Sigma Alpha has had a non-hazing policy on the books for over five years, but in 1988-89, the sorority has brought the issue out of the closet. Chapters have been put on probation for hazing; the standardized pledge program was introduced; a definition of hazing and the sorority's policy on hazing were added to the membership manual; the model state/province day program features a non-hazing theme; and this issue of The Phoenix is devoted to the sorority's programs against hazing.

With the issue out of the closet and into the chapter room, so to speak, it is now up to each individual and chapter to decide what direction to take.

For me it's simple. Women don't treat other women, especially those they expect to become their dearest friends, as second-class citizens.

***

The National Council of Alpha Sigma Alpha

The National Council of Alpha Sigma Alpha

Announces the colonization of

Announces the colonization of

Epsilon PI Tarteton State University Stephenville, TX Sept. 24, 1988

Epsilon Rho William Pateraon College Wayne, NJ

2 SPRING 1989

Feb.9,1989

THE PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA

I

PHOenix Spring 1989

of Alpha Sigma Alpha

Deadlines Fall. . . ..... . ... .. . . ....

Winter ......... . . . .....

Spring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Summer........... . . ..

Vol. 74, No. 3

Feature Apr. 10 July 10 Oct. 10 Jan. 10

Editor Nancy I.Z. Reese 828 S. Golf Cui de Sac Des Plaines, IL 60016

Staff

Put AEA on top using the power of positioning.

4

Is your chapter hazing? .....

6

How model pledge program eliminates hazing ...... . .. .

7

Feature Editor Cretia Rowlette 3861 N. Cherry Ln .

Kansas Ci ty, MO 64116

Foundation announces goal of $90,000 by 1990 ............... .

Alumnae Editor Lori Muehlbauer Robinson 1500 Sparkman Dr. Apt. 36F Huntsville, AL 35816

The 5 Ps of rush . . . . . . .

Collegiate Editor Terri Higgs Mu rphy 4922 Epwort h Rd. Newburgh , IN 47630 Historian Betty Urban Wallick P.O. Box 4727 Yuma, AZ 85366-4727

Meet two new members of council.

PHoenix

on

Second-c lass postage paid at Springf ield, MO, and at additional mailing offices.

Postmaster. Send address changes to THE PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA, 1201 East Walnut St., Springfield, MO 65802.

THE PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA

From the Editor . . . . . . . .... .

On the Cover Alpha Sigma Alpha has launched a program to 'Put AEA on top ' of the non-hazing movement on campuses across the nation. This program, created by Vice President of Program Elaine Fuerst, and other aspects of hazing are examined in this issue. (Photo of Eta Eta members Bethany Berry and Lauri Schmitt taken by Terry Gintner, Eta Eta.)

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Collegiate Stars . .. . . . ..... .

14 16

Collegiate Corner ... . ... . . .

18

Rush information form ..... .

top

Articles are Invited for publication in t his journal.

Manuscript s should be submitted to the editorial staff for consideration. Accep tances are on a contrlb· utln g basis only and subject to editorial review. Artl· cles published are the personal expressions of the aut hors and do not necessaril y represe nt th e policies ofAI:A.

Departments 21st Century questionnaire ... .. . . . . . . .. .

THE PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA (USPS 430· 640), an educational journal , is published In the fal l, winter, spring and summer of each year by the Soror· lty, 1201 East Walnut St reet, Springfield, MO 65802.

Subscri pti on pri ce, $1 .50 a year. Produced by Maury Boyd & Associates, Indianapo lis, IN 46268. Member, National Panhellenic Confere nce and College Frater· nlty Editors Associ ation.

Send change of address and business correspon· dence to Alpha Sigma Alpha National Headquarters, 1201 East Walnu t St., Spri ngfield, MO 65802. Address all corres pondence of an edi torial nature to the edi· tor, Nancy 1. Z. Reese, 828 S. Golf Cui de Sac, Des Plaines, IL 60016.

10 12 15

The Next Issue Advisors and .advisory boards are a crucial link between the sorority's chapters and college or university administrations, local communities and the national organization. In the next issue, The Phoenix will examine the function of these important and often overlooked volunteer positions.

SPRING 1989 3

Put AEA on top //

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By using the power of positioning and creating a non-hazing ladder you can put your chapter on top

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by Elaine Fuerst Vice President of Program

To understand the power of positioning, we first must understand the potential market and how it fits into the overall picture of recruiting members and building your image.

The sorority rushes for new members each year. The entire population of non-Greek, female students make up the potential member list or market. But this population is too big. You can't possibly rush and bid every one of these women. So you break it down into manageable pieces. We call this "segmenting the market."

Segments of the potential market might be freshmen and sophomore women, women who live in dorms, 4 SPRING 1989

•

women who belong to non-Greek organizations. These are manageable numbers of women. On a larger campus, you could even concentrate on just specific dorms .

Opinion of sororities After deciding how to break down the large population of potential rushees, we now have to try to put ourselves in their minds to see what they think of sororities.

Many people come to school with lots of misconceptions about sororities.

Think back before you joined a sorority and remember some of the opinions you heard around campus. You heard "sororities choose your friends for you," "all sororities do is party and drink all the time," or "they make you do dumb stuff."

You have placed yourselves in

the minds of the prospective rushee. When you do that, you are trying to determine the "position" that sororities have in the rushee's mind. Actually, what is usually in the rushee's mind is also in the mind of most non-Greeks on campus and in the community. These are activities that always appear in newspaper articles and help keep people thinking this way.

Defining positioning To help you further understand the theory of positioning, let me share a definition. Position is the place a product, service, company, person or any other thing occupies in the mind of the one viewing it.

You have a position in the mind of those who know you. You may be known as the one who always smokes or the one who knows evTHE PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA

erything about computers or the sweetest woman in the chapter.

On most campuses, there are two or three sororities that are always high in membership. They share the #1 position with each other. One year one group is on top; the next the other group and so on. When two groups are really close together for the number one position, they will take turns occupying it.

Picture a ladder. Let's call this ladder the sorority ladder. At your school, in the rushee's mind, which sorority would occupy the top position on that ladder on your campus? Remember, this is in the rushee's mind because that's the only mind that counts.

If you do not occupy the number one position, chances are you never will. The first sorority to establish a position, owns that position . You have to create a new ladder and a • new position for yourself.

A classic example Let's look at a success story to illustrate this point. Imagine a ladder called "soft drink. " If I were to ask 100 people on the street to name the number one soft drink in the country, chances are the majority, if not everyone, would say Coca Cola.

Coke occupies the number one spot because they got there first and for a host of other great marketing strategies. They will stay there even if they lose market share to the number two soft drink Pepsi.

No matter how hard Pepsi tries, nor how much money they spend, nor what taste tests they do , they will never unseat Coca Cola from the number one position in the buyer's mind on the soft drink ladder.

Think of other soft drinks. You may say 7-Up. But does 7-Up really THE PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA

belong on the same ladder with Coca Cola? No, not anymore. In order to complete with Coca Cola, 7-Up chose to not compete in the cola war and created a new position in the buyer's mind called the un-cola ladder, and 7- Up is at the top of that ladder.

Coca Cola cannot compete with 7-Up on the un-cola ladder . . . ever. And it will be next to impossible for Sprite or Orange Crush to beat 7-Up out of the number one position on the un-cola ladder. Remember, whoever gets there first, owns that position. 7-Up changed the way we view soft drinks . . . forever .

So, how does this apply to sororities? Well, in the rushee's mind, there is a ladder called sorority.

There may or may not be one particular sorority at the top. What you do is create another ladder in the rushee's mind that will make her think differently about the other sororities.

Remember, what was true in cola and un-colas is true for sororities. The first sorority to establish a position, owns that position.

The non-hazing ladder For many rushees, the sorority ladder is the same as a hazing ladder. By creating a non-hazing ladder, you place Alpha Sigma Alpha at the top of that ladder. We have to reposition ourselves in the minds of rushees so that when they think of AEA, they think of a sorority that does not haze.

We create the non-hazing ladder, and we place ourselves at the top because no one else has created this ladder, so we own it. Now we have to let people know. We have to publicize the fact that we are the non-hazing group!

Of course, before we reposition ourselves, we have to examine our

activities for hazing. Think about all the activities that your chapter engages in that may border on hazing or are silly. Then list the reasons why we do these activities.

For example, we may have a rule that all pledges have to call all initiated members by Miss and their last names. That's hazing. A simple, non-threatening (on the surface) method of hazing. Why is this a rule? Probably so that all the pledges would be able to learn the initiated members' names as a way of getting to know them.

Now that's an honorable reason, but the activity is not an honorable one. What would be a better way to get to know each other? You have probably already thought of small group activities, team events, cola dates , study buddies that rotate . . . the list is endless.

One last comment. All the other sororities receive a copy of The Phoenix. They will read this arti~le. In addition, the energy generated by developing this theory for repositioning the sorority was started at National Convention. It's likely that someone else will develop a new ladder before you do.

You're running out of time. Remember whoever gets there first owns the ladder and the top position!

When a non-Greek comments about sororities making you do dumb stuff, you can say, "Not the Alpha Sigs, we Help, we don't Haze. We're the non-hazing sorority on campus. "* * *

Editor's note: Elaine Fuerst is the founder and owner of a marketing consulting firm. Read more about her in the Council Profile on page 15.

SPRING 1989 5

HAZING Is your chapter doing it?

by Suzanne Kilgannon Province X Director Former Chapter Consultant

Suzanne traveled over 30,000 miles as chapter consultant for Alpha Sigma Alpha and visited nearly all of the campuses where there are AEA chapters. All of the incidences below were, during the time she traveled, common practice on those campuses.

Hazing: It comes in all forms. It can be ridiculous and seemingly harmless or physically and mentally punishing and potentially dangerous.

First the ridiculous: Pledges on one campus had to get signatures from every other Greek on campus. There were nine sororities and 12 fraternities, each with 70 members, for a total of 1,470. That's an average of 35 signatures a day during a six-week pledge period, with no time off for weekends.

On another campus, I witnessed a pledge class marching enmasse into the student union, silently and in single file . They wore pledge T -shirts and carried pledge books and stuffed animal mascots. They were not allowed to speak until spoken to and then had to address the initiates as "Miss Jones or Smith." The pledges, of course, were referred to as "Pledge Wilson or Levy."

Arriving just after "heir wee:K" on one campus, I heard about pledges who were required to carry a dead goldfish in a shampoo, toothpaste and shaving cream mixture through a day of classes . .

Other ridiculous antics included: Not walking on campus grass during the pledge period, performing skits on command in the union, being slaves for initiates, answering 6 SPRING 1989

'Do you think that our founders created an organization to foster friendships and sisterhood, hoping we would be doing push-ups in the mud at 2 a.m.?'

gusting concoctions as a sign of trust in the initiated members. On yet another, blindfolded pledges are handed peeled grapes and told they are the preserved eyeballs of founders or other distinguished alumnae.

Requiring pledges to chug beers and drink shots is also popular.

And on one campus, pledges are sent to every fraternity house to drink whatever the fraternity members mix up.

• • • chapter phones with five minute renditions of sorority history and cleaning up sticky fraternity house floors the morning after parties.

Now the physically harmful: Pledges on one campus were required to run wind sprints, obstacle courses and do calisthenics at 4 in the morning.

On another, pledges were required to do similar activities late at night, preferably in driving rain.

Push-ups and sit-ups in the mud and running while shouting sorority songs were part of these weekly "call-outs."

Of course, physical hazing is so obvious. Mind games are much more subtle . . . and destructive: The blindfold is popular on several campuses. On one, pledges are taken into a dark room. Members rattle pots and pans while quizzing a pledge on sorority, chapter and college history and why she is worthy of being initiated. During these line-ups, questio,ns are thrown out randomly, and pledges must identify the initiates' voices and correctly answer the questions. There is the implied threat of not being initiated if the pledge cannot answer correctly.

On another campus, pledges are blindfolded and asked to drink dis-

As I traveled for the sorority after graduation, I shared ma~y great times with each chapter I VISited. There were disturbing times as well. The worst was learning about hazing, like the examples above, occurring in AEA chapters.

Some of the same chapters that brag about a close-knit sisterhood.

Some of the same women who claim to have a deep love for one another. Some of the same women who make their pledges do horrible things in order to prove their worthiness to be Alpha Sigma Alphas.

The seemingly harmless hazing isn't so harmless to the pledges and initiates who resent other members for treating them in these ways.

Not harmless to women who depledged or almost depledged because sorority ended up being so different from what they were told during rush. Not harmless to chapter unity and motivation when members won't work for the sorority as initiates after they worked so hard as pledges. The effect that hazing has on members' attitudes undermines the desire to achieve goals set by chapters. Chapter members complain about apathy without realizing that hazing is destroying the future of their chapter.

Continued on page 8 THE PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA

How model pledge program eliminates hazing

by Kim Meyer Chairman of Membership Education

This year, for the first time, each chapter of Alpha Sigma Alpha is using the same basic pledge program. "The AEA Way." Compiled and written by Marilyn Stratton, national vice president of collegians, it is the culmination of several years of work and a combination of the "best of the best" pledge programs throughout the sorority.

Now all pledges of AEA will receive the same high quality, complete education about the sorority and the responsibilities and privileges of membership.

In the past, the quality of pledge programs varied from barely adequate to very good, while some chapter members refused to give up their hazing practices. At the national convention last summer, the convention body approved the addition of a chairman of membership education, whose primary responsibility will be to oversee and develop programs relative to new member education.

In addition, each chapter delegate was presented with a Standardized Pledge Program and Pledge Supplement Guide, which every chapter will use for the next two years. The program will be evaluated regularly, and at the end of the trial period, the decision will be made whether or not to continue with the program.

Each element of the pledge program is represented by the parts of the badge, with each pledge earning pearls and rubies toward fulfilling the four aims by completing individual and pledge class activities. The star, the crown, the alpha, sigma and alpha also are atTHE PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA

Why it's 'no-hazing' The new Standardized Pledge Program is a "no-hazing" program because: 1. Emphasis is on the individual and her uniqueness.

2. Chapter unity is stressed (instead of pledge class unity).

3. Pledges are drawn into activities with the entire chapter.

4. Responsibility for the success of the pledges falls on each member (instead of only the membership director).

5. The goals of pledge education is not to simply memorize the material, but to understand and be able to apply it.

6. Personal development continues for the duration of sorority membership (for initiates as well as pledges).

7. Prime motivators for pledges are pride, acceptance, understanding and the emergence of self-respect and confidence (not fear and intimidation). tained by completing parts of the pledge program.

There are at least 10 individual activities from which to choose (each pledge must chose four) and four group activities (the entire pledge class must complete one for each aim). There is a wide variety of choices, enabling the program to fit any personality or campus situation . Membership directors for each chapter are urged to insert their own artwork, mascots and pertinent campus information to personalize the program.

In each of the pledge class activities used toward completing the four aims, the emphasis is on participating with the initiates versus being set apart from them. Pledges are provisional members and do not have to earn membership.

They have already been accepted as members and only have to complete the pledge program to become initiated.

The educational portion of the

program is designed in modules that can be completed in any order, allowing pledge classes to enter the program at different dates, study the same material at pledge class meetings and be initiated as each class completes all the modules. All of these components make the job of membership director much easier since a new program doesn't have .to be written for each pledge class.

An important aspect of the standardized pledge program is to eliminate any hazing activities or hazing attitudes. A clear definition of hazing is included in the program given to each pledge. It defines hazing as "any activity that endangers the physical safety of a pledge; produces mental or physical discomfort; causes embarrassment, fright , humiliation, ridicule, or degrades the individual. " Pledges should not allow themselves to be hazed. Each pledge is Continued on page 8 SPRING 1989 7

Model Continued from page 7 encouraged to talk to her province director or a national officer if she thinks she or her pledge sisters are being hazed. The message is very clear: Alpha Sigma Alpha forbids hazing.

The program also includes clear statements regarding AEA's alcohol and standards policies, financial and scholastic requirements, importance of rituals and the benefits of lifetime membership.

But just saying, "no hazing" isn't enough. Initiates and alumnae have to carefully think through their attitudes toward pledgeship.

Breaking from tradition is difficult for many chapters, so the new pledge program is carefully designed to help them accomplish their goals-members and pledges getting to know each other and pledges learning about the sorority, developing leadership skills, learning to work together, balancing the demands of sorority and academic life and building the basis for lifetime membership.

The national organization encourages each Alpha Sigma Alpha chapter to be the leader on campus and be proud to be the sorority that does not haze its pledges. The Encounter, the pledge handbook, also has been rewritten to more closely reflect this "no-hazing" policy. Education of new members should be a positive, challenging experience.

AEA participates in beauty pageant April Ann Flemming, Miss Virginia and a member of Epsilon Gamma Chapter, participated in the Miss America Pageant Sept. 9, 1988, in Atlantic City, NJ .

April was one of 11 NPC sorority women to participate in the pageant , including the winner , Gretchen Carlson of Kappa Kappa Gamma.

A senior at Virginia Commonwealth University, April is an accomplished singer and dancer and sang "New York State of Mind" for

8 SPRING 1989

Many traditional activities for pledge classes can be "borderline" hazing. Each chapter should ask itself the following questions: 1. Does the activity reflect the ideals of our sorority and its sisterhood?

2. Does the activity have a constructive purpose? Is there another activity that more constructively accomplishes this purpose? The end does not justify the means.

3. Does the activity fall within national, state and university guidelines? With increased awareness of hazing, many states and universities have strong anti-hazing laws and policies .

4. And most importantly, is the activity also practiced by the initiated members?

We have all heard and shuddered at the widely publicized deaths and serious injuries resulting from hazing, but even "minor" hazing cannot be tolerated. Alpha Sigma Alpha will put a chapter on probation or revoke a chapter's charter because of hazing, most universities will suspend Greek organizations because of hazing, and increasingly, states are passing stringent laws forbidding hazing.

Also at risk is an individual's or chapter's financial status due to personal and chapter legal liability.

Despite these threats , the ultimate tragedy of hazing is that it violates every ideal of Alpha Sigma Alpha and the basis upon which our sorority was founded . It destroys the sisterhood that binds a chapter together.

***

Chapter Continued from page 6 While physical hazing includes stunts that only military boot camps might deem acceptable and is potentially injurious, mental hazing can be even more destructive. The stress created by these situations can affect the pledge's demeanor , performance in class and attitude toward sisterhood.

When combined, physical and mental hazing can be deadly.

Denial is often used as a defense by chapters engaged in such hazing. The threat of tragedy is denied by saying, " It will never happen to us. " Indeed, it may very well happen to you.

But that is not my point. My point is that hazing contradicts everything our sorority represents .

Do you really think that our founders created an organization to foster friend ships and sisterhood, hoping we would be doing pushups in the mud at 2 a.m.? Or that they wanted us to drink excessive amounts of alcohol to prove ourselves? I don't think so.

How simple it would be to replace the negative with the positive. All it takes is creativity, the dedication to break old habits and the courage to stand up and lead your chapters. Challenge yourselves to make the pledge period an educational period of learning about our sisterhood, our heritage and our members. Most of all, keep it fun for everyone!

***

her talent presentation. She won a $2,000 scholarship.

Her activities at VCU have included fund-raising chairman for AEA , sophomore class president, captain of the dance troupe and lead vocalist for a stage band.

April, a marketing major who has been an assistant manager of a dress shop while路 attending school, hopes to attend graduate school and one day open her own retail business.

April Ann Flemming

THE PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA

Help AEA plan for its next century The Strategic Planning Committee of Alpha Sigma Alpha has been appointed by the National Council to review and project the status of the sorority. In an effort to chart possible future directions for Alpha Sigma Alpha as it moves toward a new century, the committee will examine ideas and recommendations in such areas as general membership services, programming, expansion, finances, headquarters operations and organizational structure.

We need your help!

We want to hear from you about your needs and ideas. Your response is encouraged whether or

not you are currently active. Please share your thoughts with us by completing the survey below.

Strategic Planning Survey 1. Please check any that apply: _ _ Collegian _ _ Alumna ( _ _ dues paying _ _ non-dues paying) _ _ Year of graduation or leaving school

_ _ Member of a local alumnae group

2. What are two strengths and weaknesses of the national organization?

Strengths:

1.---------------------------------2. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ____

Weaknesses: 1. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

2. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ___

3. Are you a contributor to the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation? _ _ Yes

_ _ No

4. Why have you contributed/Why have you not c o n t r i b u t e d ? - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

5. What do you like and dislike about The Phoenix?

Like: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ____ Dislike:---------------------------------------

6. Would you consider paying a yearly subscription fee for The Phoenix?

7. Would you pay to receive an alumnae newsletter from your collegiate chapter?

Yes

_ _ No

_ _ Yes

_ _ No

8. In what areas of the country do you think Alpha Sigma Alpha should be expanding?

Collegiate: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Alumnae: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ 9. What additional services would you like to receive from the National organization? _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

10. What issues and challenges do you feel will impact Alpha Sigma Alpha in the next five years? _ _ _ _ __

11 . Why are you a member of an alumnae chapter/Why are you not a member of an alumnae chapter? _ _ __

12. Other c o m m e n t s : - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Return by May 1, 1989, to Linda B. Rogers, 377 Mayberry Ln. , Dover, DE 19901

THE PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA

SPRING 1989 9

Closing the door on the '80s.

by Bonnie Koenemann Foundation Chairman

As we enter the last year of the '80s, it gives us a chance to reflect on the years behind us. Whether you were a college student of the '30s, '40s, '50s, '60s, ' 70s , or whether you are presently a college student, the goals of the sorority remain the same. One of Alpha Sigma Alpha's five founders, Louise Cox Carper, wrote the following in the founding days of our sorority: "The fundamental object of a sorority is to cultivate those qualities which will help its members to meet more successfully the events of life. A sorority is the training

• • How are we going to open the door to our future? By supporting the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation.

Our collegiates are being asked to give one dollar a year. This may seem like an insignificant amount, but we hope it will set a pattern in the formative years of the Foundation that will continue as they fondly remember their college friendships.

Alumnae chapters also have been asked to give a donation , and many alumnae have sent in individual contributions. This, of course, is where our strength lies. There are 10 SPRING 1989

•

ground for the cultivation of the act of living in harmony with other people. Cooperation cannot be had where affection and trust is not.

The first duty of the sorority is then , the nurture of the atmosphere of mutual love and fellowship in a common venture. Alpha Sigma Alpha has a definite work to perform throughout the lives of its members and through them a beneficer;,t influence upon society at large.

We have a common venture in the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation. We must build a strong endowment with our tax deductible donations to carry out the aims of the Foundation, which is to grant scholarships to deserving young

• women and provide support for leadership training seminars as well as other worthwhile endeavors within the scope of the Foundation.

When you were conferred the Phoenix Degree during your pledging ceremony, you made a promise of loyalty to the sorority and you accepted the rights and responsibilities of membership. This was the beginning of a sisterhood that will endure for a lifetime.

We hope that you will remember the many ways that Alpha Sigma Alpha has enriched your life and that you still feel the loyalty that you felt as a new initiate. 1r 1r

*

. Opening the door to the future many ways a member may give to the Foundation. A contribution may be sent at any time to National Headquarters. You may want to make your gift something special, and we have a few suggestions: A birthday gift: Surprise a sorority sister on her birthday by sending a donation to the Foundation.

A card will be sent to her indicating that you are the donor.

In recognition: You may want to recognize a friend on his or her accomplishment, award, promotion, etc. Send a gift to the Foundation, and a card will be sent to the designated person.

Memorials: A contribution in memory of a friend or relative is a lasting remembrance. An appropriate card will be sent to the person you designate on your donation.

As we fondly remember the rich heritage of Alpha Sigma Alpha, let us also look to the future and give generously so that some day we can look back on the '80s and say, "I helped build the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation."

Send your tax deductible contributions to: Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation, 1201 East Walnut, Springfield, MO 65802. 1r

**

THE PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA

NAlpha Trustees announce goal of $90,000 by 1990

Members of the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation Board of Trustees hosted a breakfast during the 1988 National Convention at Clearwater Beach, FL. Members of the board were, standing, left to right, ex-officio members Diane James and Rosemary Goss, Foundation Chairman Bonnie Koenemann, S. June Smith, Secretary Judy Winter and Treasurer Lois Beers. Ex-officio members have since been replaced by National Vice President of Finance Connie Hoffman and National President Diane James. Among those who enjoyed the breakfast were, front row, Julia Oberweis, r A and Boston alumna; Amy Kumpula, EE, Julie Beard, EE, and Sandy Scheller, EE, Emporia State University collegians.

During the 1988 National Convention, the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation Board of Trustees announced as their goal donations totaling $90,000 by the year 1990. Help the Foundation reach this goal by sending your donation today!

Foundation contribution form Date _________________________________________________.Check Enclosed For $ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Name __________________________________________________________________________________ Maiden

First

Married

College Chapter

Address ________________________________________________________________________________ City

Street

Zip

State

If a memorial gift, please state: lnmemoryof ___________________________________________________________________________ (If a AEA, give full name and chapter)

If gift is in honor of someone, please state: lnhonorof _____________________________________________________________________________ (If a AEA, give full name and chapter)

Name and address to whom acknowledgement card is to be sent: Married

Malden

First

City

Street

State

Zip

Please return this form with check payable to: Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation, 1201 East Walnut, Springfield, MO 65802 Thank you for your support. Contributions are tax-deductible.

THE PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA

SPRING 1989

11

What will involve you in a rush of acHvity, fun and excitement? Rush! As a vital source of sorority growth, rush is met with anticipation from both rushees and actives and holds a different meaning for each woman involved. Accept the challenge to help Alpha Sigma Alpha'grow and enter the wonderful world of rush. Your chapter can swing through rush with relative ease if you just remember the five Ps. * -tr

*

PRIDE Pride in your school.

Pride in your Greek system.

Pride in your sorority and its accomplishments.

Take pride in what your group has to offer a rushee. Rushees are very impressionable at this time and need information to make a serious choice. Let them know that your chapter received the scholarship trophy for 10 consecutive years , your chapter placed second in the Greek games, your sorority's national philanthropy is Special Olympics. Remember, they won't know if you don't tell them.

Pride in yourself. By taking pride in yourself, you will portray a level of confidence that is easily recognized by your audience of rushees. As the television commercial advocates, "you never get a second chance to make a first impression." -tr

**

路 \I,

PREPARATION Have an objective. As with any project, you need an objective with which to weigh your success. This will more likely be to meet quota and chapter total.

What exactly is quota? According to sorority standards , quota is "the total number of rushees accepting the first invitational parties divided by the number of participating sororities. This is the number each sorority is allowed to pledge during a formal rush period. Once established, quota should remain unchanged for that entire formal rush period."

Have a detailed schedule. Details do count. Make use of the detail list as a final checklist; when rush week arrives, you'll be glad you did. Though rush parties are over in what seems like a short time span, rushees have absorbed the environment and made a note of the efforts that were involved.

Know your rushees. Study their interests, review their rush forms and make them feel as if you knew them before they walked in the door. They shouldn't be strangers; they may end up being your sisters. -tr

**

PRACTICE Communication skills. As the saying goes, it takes at least two to communicate: you and the rushee.

Ask open ended questions (one that requires a response other than yes or no), be a good listener and show sincere interest with the rushee.

Rotating. Transition and introductory phrases are most appropriate here. When the next active comes to relieve you, take your cue and move on; you want to talk to as many women in one session that you can.

Singing. Make sure every member has words to rush songs memorized!

Mock rush sessions. One of the most overlooked rush resources are members of the local alumnae chapter; they can be invaluable during rush week.

Their presence alone offers encouragement to members at such an important time. Above all, use alumnae for your rush practice sessions. Ask them to fill in as rushees, and put your rushing techniques to the test. They can offer objective opinions, and you'll feel like pros when the "real thing" rolls around. Remember to show appreciation for their help; they may appreciate baked goodies for their next alumnae meeting. {;{

* {;{

PARTICIPATION Rush requires everyone's help. Each member has something to offer whether it be making name tags, painting props, making refreshments , costumes or favors.

Make use of committees for each party and assign duties. Everyone has something to contribute and everyone needs a job. A successful rush is not a onewoman show. And remember, the last party is as important as the first.

Most chapters incorporate skits into each party to support the overall theme. Here's your chance to be a "star for the day."{;{

* {;{

PLEDGES

Yes, you'll have pledges, but pledges are rushees first. Make rush week count.

Just when you thought it was over . . . Rush is never over; as a sorority member, you are a representative of your organization and are always making impressions on others. Make the best of that opportunity! {;{

**

SPRING 1989

13

Alpha Sigma Alpha rush information If you know of a young woman who is attending, or will attend, college on a campus where there is a chapter of Alpha Sigma Alpha, please fill out this form and send it to Alpha Sigma Alpha Nation_al Headquarters, 1201 East Walnut Street, Springfield, MO 65802. This form is for information only. It does not obligate the woman or chapter in any way.

Rushee's name ________________________________________________________________________ College or university rushee is pi ann i ng to attend ----------------------------------------------Homeaddress _________________________________________________________________________ Name of parent or guardian --------------------------------------------------------------Rushee's high school _______________________________________________Graduation year ________ Rushee is now a _____ freshman, _____ sophomore, _____ junior, _____ senior If rushee is a transfer, former college: -------------------------------------------------------Relatives in Alpha Sigma Alpha or other Greek organization---------------------------------------Do you know the girl personally? ________ lf not, source of information-----------------------------Please describe: Academic achievements and honors: -------------------------------------------------------

Interests, hobbies and talents: -------------------------------------------------------------

Community activities: -------------------------------------------------------------------

Other comments: _______________________________________________________________________

Yourname _______________________________________________ Chapter _______________________ Address _________________________________________________ Phone ________________________ City _________________________________ State ______________________J...ip __________________

Balfour Fellowship applications available Applications are now available for 1989 Balfour Fellowships.

Funded from income from a significant grant to the National Interfraternity Foundation from the estate of Lloyd G. Balfour, awards last year totaled $15,000.

Further information and an application are available from the National Interfraternity Foundation, 3901 W. 86th Street, Suite 14 SPRING 1989

#390, Indianapolis, IN 46268.

Deadline for applications is April 1, 1989. *: *

*

Alumnae Panhellenic offers scholarship 路 The Fairfield County, Connecticut, Panhellenic Association offers its annual scholarship of $900 to any sorority woman whose home residence is in Fairfield County and who is attending any college or university in the United States.

Applicants must be in their sophomore or junior year and must be active members of a National Panhellenic Conference Sorority.

Selection is based on academic records and service to sorority, school and community. For application forms, write to: Grace Dole, 503 W. Lion Farm Dr., Greenwich, CT 06831.

Completed forms and accompanying information must be returned by April1, 1989.

***

THE PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA

Council Profiles

Vice president of program

Vice president of alumnae

Introducing: Elaine Rahaim Fuerst Collegiate chapter: Beta Delta School: University of Southern Mississippi; Hattiesburg Degrees: M.Ed. in Marketing Education; MBA in Management; BFA in Art Education Certification: Marketing education with the State of Florida Alumnae chapter: Past member of the Fort Lauderdale Area Alumnae; Member of the reorganized Atlanta Area Chapter Alumnae/national activities: Field representative; National rush chairman (four years); National vice president of collegiate program (four years); Chairman of philanthropies (four years) Awards: Wilma Wilson Sharp Award Innovative contributions: Developed chapter enrichment program; Co-creator of KROP Civic activities: Membership chair for the American Society for Training apd Development (ASATD); Director of the Sandy Springs Leads Group for Women Entrepreneurs; Involvement in the Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Gwinnett County Cancer Society Occupation: Owner and founder of a marketing consulting company, Marketing Essentials Previous Occupation: Training manager for Motorola South Florida Best aspect of career position: "Having the opportunity to be involved with. a variety .of b!;lsinesses; there is a new challenge wtth each chent.

Greatest challenge facing you in your new position as vice president of pro~ra~: "Reorganizing the leadership development mshtutes and making sure they are implemented on schedule.

Each is equivalent to a 'mini convention' and will require the coordination and commitment of many individuals. " Personal information: Elaine and her husband, John, live in Alpharetta, GA, a suburb of Atlanta, with their two Cavalier Spaniels Interests: Low-impact aerobics, reading and visiting with friends What AEA means to you: "Identifying and believing in who I am and having the confidence to know I can do anything. Alpha Sigma Alpha has also helped me appreciate women of all ages."

Introducing: Sue Zorichak Hagen Collegiate chapter: Beta Beta School: University of Colorado, Greeley Degree: B.A. in journalism Collegiate activities: Junior panhellenic president; Panhellenic representative; House manager; Social chairman Alumnae/national activities: Field representative; Phoenix collegiate editor (two years); Phoenix feature editor (four years) ; member of the national awards committee (four years); Installing and supervising officer of the Epsilon Delta Chapter in Winona, MN; Vice president of the Twin Cities Alumnae Panhellenic Association Awards: Named an Outstanding Young Woman of America, 1986 Civic activities: Active in RENEW program, a five-semester program at the Catholic Church Occupation: Editor of a monthly trade magazine published in St. Paul, MN Previous occupation: Copy and photo editor for six weekly county newspapers Best aspect of career position: "Feeling satisfaction when the 120 page magazine comes back from the printer every month . It is very rewarding to actually see the fruits of the input effort."

Greatest challenge facing you in your new position as vice president of alumnae: "Building alumnae membership. I believe that goal starts with the pledges, that is, instilling the meaning of alumnae at an early phase of sorority membership."

Best aspect of sorority job: "Having the opportunity to help shape and contribute to the future of the sorority."

Personal information: Sue, her husband Jeff and their son Matthew live in Inver Grove Heights, MN Interests: Reading, yard work/working outside and sports What AEA means to you: "All inherent meanings stem from having a good college experience. Some of my close friends I met in college. When I belong to an organization, I work and extend effort to support that group. "

THE PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA

Editor's note: Elaine Fuerst and Sue Hagen were elected to the National Council of Alpha Sigma Alpha at the 1988 Convention in Clearwater Beach, FL. The profiles were written by Cretia Rowlette, Phoenix feature editor. -t.

-t.

*

SPRING 1989

15

Collegiate Stars

Suzanne Pellegrino, Alpha, nominated most outstanding freshman .

Alpha Suzanne Pellegrino, nominated most outstanding freshman, biology club, dean's list, pledge chaplain, freshman leadership workshop; Karen Whitely, chapter vice president, theatre club, Longwood Players, Alpha Psi Omega (drama) , Catalinas; Caroline Bowe, standards committee, marketing club; Susan Thein, philanthropic chairman, marketing club, riding team, art club; Gina Mancuso, chapter treasurer, accounting club, judicial board; Vicki Colpe, Panhellenic representative, Panhellenic treasure r , marketing club; Charlene Connor, vice president of Psi Chi (psychology) , dean's list, social chairman, corresponding secretary; Dina Ferrigno , publicity, Greek Columns, Rotunda editor; Kim Brumley, dean's list, Scholastic All-American; Margaret Ricks, Scholastic All-American , dean's list; Anna Tannenbaum, chapter editor, riding team, marketing club.

Alpha Beta Trish Cope, chosen to represent AEA at the Alpha Tau Omega Leadership Conference, varsity tennis team, singles and doubles conference champion, Order of Omega, Alpha Phi Sigma (scholarship), pre-law advisory committee, Pi Sigma Alpha (political science); Natalie Kim, one of 20 people in the United States to be awarded a full scholarship at the Reynolds House Museum of American Art, student ambassadors, Alpha Phi Sigma (scholarship), psychology 16

SPRING 1989

Alpha Beta Chapter member Angie Hamm reigned as homecoming queen at Northeast Missouri State University during their fall festivities.

club , Showgirls dance squad; Sarh Hartman , Pershing Scholarship, College Republications , Lutheran Student Movement; Diane Karl , President's honorary scholarship, varsity tennis team , Panhell enic treasurer; Laura Kemper, chapter vice president, peer counselor in the unive rsity's Career Planning and Placement Center, Cardinal Key , President's Honorary Scholarship; Margaret Allen , Best Pledge, Young Democrats , political science club , National Organization for Women; Jane Yeckel , Governor's Task Force on unwed adolescent sexual activity and pregnancy , student activities board, member of Young Republicans, vice president for student ambassadors; Stacy Roberts and Janet Morlan, track team members; Tracy Jones, volleyball team.

Alpha Gamma Cindy Cox, chapter membership director, Big Brothers and Sisters, Penn State Cooperative Extensive Service, home economics association; Ann Hamrock, chapter social chairman, fashion club , Big Brothers and Sisters ; Terry Curren, philanthropic chairman, student marketing association; Missy Fucci, softball team ; Kelly Giordano , cheerleading squad; Pamela Gardner, chapter president, College Republicans; Michelle Horner, standards chairman, chapter second vice president, recipient of chapter's Distinguished Service Award, McFarland Scholarship, para-professional peer tutor; Jennifer

Liz OeMovic, Beta Kappa, homecoming queen candidate.

Rissi, awarded Outstanding Sportsmanship Award given to a Greek woman on campus, voted "Ideal Sister" by the pledges.

Beta Kappa Liz DeMuvic, chapter editor, homecoming queen candidate, Order of Omega, student ambassador organization , senior challenge board, dean ' s list , Alpha Epsilon Rho (broadcasting) , news and feature writer for student newspaper, Sequel yearbook writer, WLS-TV , Chicago, summer intern , wrote, directed and produced editorials for campus television station, Taste of Chicago staff; Brenda Jennings, chapter president, student orientation board, Kappa Omicron Phi (home economics), Panhellenic representative, student government representative, student government committee for financial aid; Lori Waters, chapter treasurer, student leader of the month, freshman floor vice president, student orientation board , chairman of student activities, council for exceptional children, contemporary entertainment committee; Aracelia Lopez, president of Latin American student organization, director of Tradicion Hispana dance troupe, international friendship club; Janet Morales, Delta Sigma Pi (business), junior guide, Rho Epsilon (real estate), central budgeting committee, Dean Witter, Chicago, summer intern, finance club.

THE PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA

Collegiate Stars Delta Rho Carrie Town , past chapter president, Omicron Delta Kappa (leadership), campus newspaper, Panhellenic; Kathy Meadows, past chapter editor, campus newspaper; Angela Morton and Michele Tullo, assistant trainers for football team; Susan Semonite, Bonnie Shinnamon and Angie Stone, assistants to deans of student affairs and housing.

Delta Upsilon Lupita Vasquez, varsity cheerleader; Kimi Gomillion, Panhellenic president; Tecla McDonald, summer employee at Sea World of Texas; Leanne Haase, chapter president, weekend orientation assistant, new student orientation assistant, orientation tour guide.

Lucy Seagraves, Beta Mu, Who's Who in American Colleges.

Dezanne Russell, Epsilon Iota, Greek Woman of the Year.

Beta Mu

Gamma Omicron

Epsilon Iota

Angie Bratton, cheerleading squad; Regina Jones, first woman to make All-American Swimmer (AlA); Lucy Seagraves, Who's Who in American College Students, congressional internship.

Jenny Castonguay, resident assistant; Terri Repak, volunteer tour guide; Deana Vassel, studied in Hungary; Lara Reish, cheerleader; Beckie Cemick, Golden Poet award; Christine Kropcho, cadet second lieutenant in ROTC; Amy Black, radio show host on WWZU; Beth Firster, lead role in university production of "Cabaret"; Kim West, summer intern at Ames.

Andrea Tunia , chapter treasurer, Academic Peer Counselor; Barbra Calhoun, received the Best Pledge award; Sally Klein, chapter vice president, Sister of the Year; Dezanne Russell , chapter president, Greek Woman of the year.

Beta Nu Wendy Galloway, Miss MSU candidate, student ambassador, student government senator of education, student alumni association, summer orientation counselor, chapter social co-chairman; Dawn Combs, student ambassador, student alumni association, summer orientation counselor, Gamma Beta Phi honor society, dean's list, intramurals; Jenny Goodwin, president of student alumni association, Gamma Beta Phi, Kappa Omicron Phi (home economics); Cindy Dietzel, publicity chairman of university center board , intramurals, chapter philanthropic co-chairman; Rochea Perry, Rush Rho Chi , homecoming queen candidate, chapter housing chairman; Barbara Heathe, Rush Rho Chi, ROTC Ranger, chapter vice president; Rhonda Kasten, pompon squad, Gamma Beta Phi honor society, chapter treasurer; Lisa Bumpus, Alpha Kappa Psi (business), chapter intramural chairman; Joeli Staley, Sigma Alpha Iota (music), chapter song leader.

THE PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA

Gamma Pi Janet Moore, chapter president, starter on women's varsity basketball team; Carol Dillon, captain of the varsity volleyball team; Lisa Boone, Sigma Zeta (science), captain of varsity soccer team ; Yvette Franco, varsity soccer team.

Gamma Rho Dawn Blain, Phi Epsilon Kappa (physical education); Missy Rentschler, leading role in "Waiting for Godot, " community service award; Cheryl Kruse, orientation aide; Janine Stahl, resident advisor; Valarie Cook, cheerleader co-captain; Kim Murray, orientation aide, cheerleader co-captain; Susanne Colligan, dean's list; Denise Fischer, dean's list; Kathy Siegert, varsity softball team, president of the health and physical education majors club , dean's list, second lieutenant in the ROTC .

Epsilon Kappa Suzanne Goodhard, track team ; Amy Therrian, dean's list, early childhood education association, rush chairman; Jodi MacNair, vice president of intersorority council, accounting club; Peggy Whelan, co-president of Greek council.

Epsilon Lambda Dorothy O 'Donnell, Phi Eta Sigma (freshman scholarship) , orientation counselor , chapter chaplain and housing chairman; Judy Whitlam, business manager of college newspaper, chapter standards chairman; Jill Ewell, homecoming candidate nominated by three campus organizations, chapter treasurer; Dana Dewald, chapter Ideal Pledge Award; Cindy Vukelich, actress in campus production of "Tartuffe."

Epsilon N u Colony Paula Bobeck , president of New York State Games for the physically handicapped organization on campus; Chris Verdone, honors society program; Lynn Vujakovich, school newspaper.

SPRING 1989

17

with a ceremony and plaque inscribed with her name.

Angie Hamm Indiana University of Pennsylvania

A successful retreat

Beta Theta 's own 'Aiphateers ' participate in a Mickey Mouse skit.

Longwood College

Fall fun The Alpha Chapter participated in Longwood College's sesquicentennial celebration. Many members, other students and staff participated in a big birthday bash. Hor d'oeuvres and dancing were followed by a musical laser show.

The chapter has adopted two new philanthropic activities. Twice a month, members go to the Southside Hospital or the Weyonoke RetirementHome.

Wrapping up a busy schedule before Thanksgiving break was the annual Founders' Day party. Instead of a traditional semi-formal celebration, a casual party was held at a near-by cabin, with a bonfire, hot cider, music and cook-out.

Anna Tannenbaum Miami University of Ohio

.M:As help "Make a Wish" The second annual Alpha Alpha Broomball Tournament was held on Oct. 22. Sororities and fraternities were invited to participate and make a donation. Donations were contributed to Dreams Come True, a Cincinnati chapter of the National Make a Wish Foundation. This organization helps subsidize trips and outings for terminally ill children.

Similar to hockey, broomball is played on ice with tennis shoes, helmets, a plastic ball and short sticks.

Goggin Ice Arena was very helpful by waving some of the costs for reserving the arena. Over 20 Greek organizations participated in the event.

Some 10 area merchants contributed services and items used for prizes.

Acting as co-sponsor, Pizza Hut awarded 40 free pizzas to the teams with the most supporters at the tournament.

Susan Sutton Northeast Missouri State University

Colors of victory Homecoming was a very successful time for the Alpha Betas. Festivities were Oct. 3-9 with the theme "The Color of Victory." This year the colors gf victory were red and white as the AEAs swept the competition. AB received first place in the banner competition. Several members united to win the campuswide scavenger hunt. The prize money was put into a fund in memory of chapter member Robin Meyerkord , who was killed in an auto accident two years ago . Pledges also received first place honors for their skit in the pep assembly. Angie Hamm, Alpha Beta representative for homecoming queen was victorious and reigned as queen over the weekend festivities.

After the crowning, the Alpha Betas gathered on stage to sing songs and celebrate their victories.

The parade began early Saturday morning. The Alphas made a float with Sigma Phi ,Epsilon fraternity.

After the football game, the chapter's annual " coke-tail" reception was held. Members from many years gathered to sing songs and exchange memories of their AEA sisterhood.

On Sunday, as the weekend drew to a close, the chapter dedicated its chapter room to Robin Meyerkord

Michelle Homer, standards board chairman , planned a retreat for the members of the Alpha Gamma Chapter. The retreat occurred Sept.

23 at the College Lodge. The main purpose for the retreat was to set a list of goals for the chapter to strive towards.

A self-defense instructor spoke during the first portion of the evening.

He showed the members helpful tips that would make them feel more secure and confident.

In a relaxed atmosphere, the members were encouraged to freely discuss their opinions about the sorority.

A list was produced by everyone that aided in fostering positive attitudes and comments, and also encouraged more participation.

Ending the evening in a friendship circle, the members each commented on ' 'I'm proud to be an AEA because . . . " The result enhanced cooperation among members.

Carolyn Orban Central Missouri State University

Dreams can come true Homecoming this year was Oct. 15 with "Memorable Moments" as the overall theme. Based on that, the Zeta Zeta Chapter decided to make their theme "Alpha Sigma Alpha Can Make a Dream Come True."

The chapter collected money throughout the week of homecoming and donated it to the KMBC, Channel 9, KCMO's Dream Factory. This organization fulfills terminally ill children's dreams.

The members all had matching shirts designed for the occasion and chanted appropriate cheers while marching in the homecoming parade. Most of the applause for planning this project should go to our two homecoming co-chairmen, Melissa Mann and Julie Mayer.

Pam Boyle Pittsburg State University

Greek Week winners As the fall semester gets into full swing, the Greek organizations look forward to the arrival of the everpopular Greek Weeki This week pro-

18 SPRING 1989 THE PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA

1

Collegiate Corner vides an excellent opportunity to better Greek relations, get to know the newest members on campus and gives rise to a little "friendly competition" between the sororities and fraternities through various activities and events.

This year's Greek week was held during the week of Sept. 19-23.

Tuesday evening, all Greeks gathered for an alcohol awareness program followed by a "mocktail" competition in which each organization made their own nonalcoholic beverage. Eta Eta Chapter placed first in this event with its "Screaming Daq Whip," which got the week off to a great start.

Wednesday brought about the Airband (lip sync) and the Greek God and Goddess competitions. HH tied for first and second places in the goddess competition with senior Linda Allee, and sophomore Rachelle Schmitz, respectively. The chapter's airband placed second overall with a performance of Joan Jett's "I Hate Myself for Loving You!" With Thursday came the Greek games, including a bat race, an egg toss, a tug-o-war competition and relay race. Following the games, a picnic was catered by the Mall Deli.

On Friday, the final day of competition, the chapter found itself neck and neck for the lead and coming down to the wire with the final event being the bedraces. Each organization furnished and decorated its own bed while their god or goddess contestant rode the bed during the races.

HH Chapter prevailed with a first place in the races which gave it first place overall and enabled it to keep the Greek Week grand champion trophy for the third year in a row.

Leslie Heiskell Temple University

Prize-winning float Kappa Kappa Chapter president, Trish DiCicca, was involved in welcoming the entire class of incoming freshmen to the Temple campus. She successfully organized materials to be distributed to all freshmen before school started. This book was arranged to make new members of the university feel welcome and allow their entrance to do as smoothly as possible.

Soon after that was homecoming.

The chapter entered a float building contest, among Greeks on campus, with the Phi Kappa Psi fraternity .

THE PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA

The float won "First Prize" and "Best Used Theme" awards.

Lisa Lombardo Northwest Missouri State University

The Beta Delta Chapter is very proud of the fact that Alpha Srgma Alpha is the oldest sorority on campus and has been a vital part of the university for 50 years.

Lynn Moore

A fantasyland homecoming

James Madison University

Fairy tale characters, pomped and in the flesh, took to the streets and stage as part of this year's homecoming theme, "Fantasyland."

With the hustle and bustle of rush and classes and homecoming kicking off earlier this year, the Phi Phi Chapter found it necessary to take some crash courses in time management. Pressure worked in favor of the Phi Phis, who finished their third place Sleeping Beauty, "Victory Sealed With A Kiss," float one week early.

This was only the beginning, for the Alphas continued to rack up the honors including a third place finish in the variety show skit, "Bobbyrella," a second and third place finish for the individual clowns, "Pinocchio" and "Jiminy Cricket," and a first place finish for the group clowns, "Winnie the Pooh."

The Alpha winning streak spelled supremacy as the members rejoiced in taking overall honors in the homecoming parade.

Homecoming spirit remained high and was given an extra boost when Lisa Robison, chapter vice president, was crowned homecoming queen.

Homecoming activities tapered off early Saturday evening with the alumnae tea. Alumnae, members and pledges had the opportunity to meet each other and converse about homecoming honors and the scholarship trophy given by Panhellenic council to the chapter for its high grade point average.

Cindy Monticue University of Southern Mississippi

Celebrating 50 years This year homecoming was extra special for the Beta Delta Chapter because it celebrated its 50th anniversary on campus.

In addition to the unusual homecoming festivities, the chapter held a banquet before the football game and an alumnae reception following the game in the chapter room. The homecoming and 50th anniversary celebration took place Oct. 28.

"Red, White, and You" Beta Epsilon's fall rush got off to a great start with a round of "Red, White, and You." All members sported AEA T -shirts with Red, White, and You printed on them and jean mini-skirts. This theme coincided with rush posters placed around the campus encouraging rushees to take a look at Alpha Sigma Alpha.

Everyone wore creative nametags designed to start up conversations with questions like, "Ask me about Special Olympics" or "Ask me about our spring formal."

The recreation room of AEA was cheerfully decorated in red and white with various items placed around the room . Big sister's paddles, AEA signs, banners and pictures from chapter activities surrounded the rushees.

Posters with spiritual, physical, intellectual and social aims also filled the room, which explained the different aspects of AEA. Rushees were able to see what AEA could do for them in becoming a well-rounded person.

This theme gave AEA a personal touch for the rushees, and everybody had a great time sharing their knowledge about the sorority.

Sara Harris Central Michigan University

Summer planning helps rush Beta Theta Chapter experienced one of the best rushes ever for the chapter. Formal rush chairman, Shawn Wheeler, worked hard all summer getting ready for a spectacular fall rush. She formulated ideas, gathered decorations and designed shirts that the entire chapter wore.

One of the most successful events was the Mickey Mouse theme party.

It was used for second-round parties, after a first-round party theme of "Up, Up and Away with AEA." For the Mickey Mouse party, each member wore Mickey Mouse ears and shirts that said "Alpha Sig" on them in Mickey Mouse material. The AEA SPRING 1989

19

Collegiate Corner song parody, "When You Wish Upon a Star " was used along with a new creati~n from the Mickey Mouse Club theme song.

Michele Lilley Radford University

Chapter has retreat

the rushees had fun socializing, eating nachos and breaking the pinata.

Rhonda Pitt Northern Illinois University

Rush skits prove successful

The members of Beta Iota Chapter started the year off with some "quality time" together. Members had aretreat at a member's house that was big enough to hold everyone. Members ate popcorn, sang old sorority songs and made up some new ones. A video of the chapter's one-day retreat to the Cascades and a slide show provided entertainment. The retreat gave new and old members a chance to get reacquainted and start off the year with some real unity.

Krista Smith

The Beta Rho Chapter enjoyed a very successful Fall Rush.

One of the strongest points of rush were the skits. The members worked hard on practicing lines and songs and making scenery. The skits were performed on the second and third days of a four-day rush period.

Rushees had nothing but good comments about the skits. They were able to see how much fun members have with each other through the first skit, and sisterhood was stressed in the second skit.

Amy Piet

Western Illinois University

Southwest Missouri State University

A busy fall Within a three-week period, Beta Kappa not only performed a magnificent rush, but also managed to tackle and survive an early homecoming season.

The rush theme was the "Little White Schoolhouse," which brought out the little girls in everyone. After a five-day weekend of smiles and cheer, the chapter topped off the week in a "Wedding Exchange" with Nu Sigma Chi. "Pride in the Past . . . A Look to the Future" was this year's WIU homecoming theme. Beta Kappa participated in all homecoming activities with the men of Theta Chi. Liz DeMovic, chapter editor, served as homecoming queen candidate.

Liz DeMovic

Members support many activities The Beta Sigma Chapter started off the semester with a pledge mom ceremony and bid night festivities.

The following weeks were extremely busy with study halls, softball and formal pledging.

The rest of the semester has been just as fun-filled. The pledges have held exchanges with the pledges of different fraternities.

Fall full of activities Fall semester got off to an exciting start for Gamma Eta Chapter, the 1988 winners of the national Crown of Excellence Award.

Rush chairman, Leslie Kattic, took rushees through the Magical Kingdom of Alpha Sigma Alpha.

During bid night, the men of Alpha Sigma Phi invited the Gamma Etas to join forces with them in the IFC Dance Marathon for the ninth year in a row. Soon after bid night, the pledges participated in the annual Sigma Chi Derby Days. Events ranged from decorating the house to putting on a ~ong/dance skit. At week's end, the Gamma Eta pledges won honors as the second best pledge class.

The members participated in homecoming with the men of Beta Theta Pi. In keeping with Penn State's overall theme of "Sharing the Spirit of a Lifetime," the Beta/ AEA theme was, "Meet Your Mate at Penn State." Gamma Etas spent the week with the Betas pomping the float and making the banner. During the homecoming parade, Betas and AEAs followed behind the float dressed as animals such as cows, pigs, elephants and skunks.

Rochester Institute of Technology

Teeter-tottering for cystic fibrosis

Mexican rush theme

20 SPRING 1989

Penn State University

Julie Efthymiou

Concord College

Beta Pi Chapter held formal rush from Sept. 13-15. Many enthusiastic rushees attended the various parties that the chapter hosted.

The preference parties were exceptionally fun for the Alpha Sigs as they dressed in brightly colored Mexican clothes, straw hats and had a ladybug pinata for the rushees to burst. The rushees lined up and took turns wildly swinging at the ladybug until candy and friendship bracelets filled the air. Chapter members and

Homecoming activities were shared with the Sigma Chi fraternity, and a philanthropic projet was held in November.

Laura Jones

Beta Sigma member Paula Kindle is proud to show her new pledge daughter Kelly Roe during bid night activities.

This past fall, the members of Gamma Iota Chapter held their yearly teeter-totter for cystic fibrosis with the Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity.

The event was very successful once again this year. Over $1,500 was raised for the charity in a 100-hour marathon.

Chapter members began teetering on Monday at noon and ended on Friday at 4 p.m. Each member teeter-tottered for one hour while other chapter members collected donations. The event was supported by the newspapers and radio stations in Rochester.

Rory Greenberg THE PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA

Collegiate Corner Adrian College

Happy Birthday Raggedy Ann Happy Birthday Raggedy Ann! This year is the 70th birthday of Raggedy Ann, and the Gamma Mu Chapter had a celebration.

Raggedy Ann has been a very important part of the chapter since its beginning. She is a special symbol of love that is passed. to each generation of members. One of the rush parties this year was a birthday party to honor this special character. The chapter room was decorated with multi-colored streamers and dozens of balloons. Everyone brought down their Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls and lined the wall with them. Members wore brightly colored party hats and sang "Happy Birthday." The story of Raggedy Ann's creation also was read.

Long ago a young girl, Marcella, found an old rag doll in her grandmother's attic . She had shoe button eyes, a bright red nose and delightful smile. With Marcella, the rag doll came to life, and the two of them shared great adventures together.

Through the stories, written by John Gruelle, the world came to know and love this little rag doll , Raggedy Ann. Through the years, even though she became torn , tattered and loosejointed , she retained her bright smile. This is why Raggedy Ann is so special to AEA and why members thought her birthday was such an important occasion.

Nancy Wararton

Slippery Rock State College

Homecoming celebrated Gamma Xi Chapter celebrated a homecoming that the chapter won't soon forget.

Work on the homecoming float began early and was very productive.

Many new pledges were involved, and they soon learned the fun of working together on a project. The theme for the float , which was shared with Pi Kappa Phi fraternity, was Mardi Gras . AEA and IIK8 members re-created the famous Bourbon Street during the festive season. The third-prize winning float included a king and queen of Mardi Gras and many elaborately masked holiday revelers .

To further add to the joyous THE PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA

oc~asion, chapter secretary, Maria Mtchalek, was chosen first runner-up to the homecoming queen. This is the first time a Gamma Xi has been on the homecoming court.

Pamela Short

Clarion State College

Homecoming climaxes festival Homecoming at Clarion is the climax of the annual Autumn Leaf Festival. The festival is a week-long extravaganza of food, games and fun for the college students and townspeople alike .

This year the members of Gamma Omicron were there to help begin the festival, as well as to wrap it up. Several members helped out with the ALF Junior Olympics by serving refreshments to the young participants.

It was a great way to begin the week by seeing the excitement and enthusiasm of the children.

As a follow-up to this activity, a group of members walked with the Junior Olympians in the homecoming parade.

Sheila Gastiger East Stroudsburg University

A Halloween weekend For most, Halloween weekend is a time to look forward to seeing children dressed in costumes and going door to door trick-or-treating. Fallen leaves underfoot manifest the end of the warm weather and remind everyone that the winter season is just around the bend. While the festivities of this Halloween weekend were going on, East Stroudsburg was alive with the festivities of homecoming.

All around the area, different student organizations were seen building their floats. On the day of homecoming, the campus was humming with parents, students and townspeople. They gathered in the streets to watch the float parade snake its way through town to the campus football stadium . The Greek organizations were all wearing their letters as they cheered on their entries in the parade.

The Gamma Rho Chapter members were busy ushering the audience into their seats, collecting tickets and selling refreshments and game programs at the football stadium. While busy at work, the Gamma Rhos

awaited the arrival of last year's Homecoming queen, Kathy Randol, now an AEA alumna.

Linda Leckey Missouri Valley College

Homecoming weekend celebrated The Gamma Pi Chapter celebrated a great homecoming weekend.

A lot of alumnae came "home" for a visit, and as always, it was great to see them and talk about past memories.

Three AEAs were nominated for junior homecoming queen. They were Kim Bastian, Lisa Boone and Sherri Jones. Lisa Boone won the title.

Two AEA pledges were nominated for sophomore homecoming queen.

They were Carla Carr and Suzi Jones.

The chapter also won first place in the annual banner contest.

Kimberly Bastian Eastern Illinois University

Chapter consultant helps with rush Gamma Omega Chapter had a very successful fall rush.

Formal rush began Aug. 20 and lasted until Aug. 26. Mari Hunter, a chapter consultant, was on hand to help.

A Mexican fiesta with mock strawberry margaritas and slide show made the first rush party at the house a huge success. The second night, the Wizard of Oz theme, was complete with decorations and skit. Preference night, "A Garden Party," was very elegant. The Pearl Ceremony made the evening perfect.

Kelly Smith Mansfield State College

A fireside chat This fall the Delta Epsilon Chapter tried something different for a fall rush activity . In the past, the chapter has always had the traditional night with the members putting on a skit and then serving refreshments.

This year, after a short skit and introduction of the executive board, everyone put on their coats and walked up to the top of campus singing various Alpha Sigma Alpha songs. Once there, there was a bonSPRING 1989 21

Collegiate Corner wand to bring Snow White back alive and to prove that Alpha Sigma Alpha was for her.

Denise Karcher General Motors Institute

Christmas in July

Delta Iota 's gear up for a fashion show at their "A Year in the Life of Alpha Sig " rush party.

fire going, and donuts and cider were served. After all the refreshments were gone and everyone had gotten to know each other a little, rush chairman, Maureen Cleary, asked everyone to stand in a circle around the fire. Then each member read a little section of a ceremony saying what makes us believe in Alpha Sigma Alpha. After the ceremony was over, members walked rushees back down to the dorms.

Members laughed a lot and shared a lot and showed the rushees a little of what sisterhood and friendship is all about.

Kris Schaffler University of Delaware

"A Year in the Life"' Delta Iota's fall rush was the chapter's most exciting and successful venture yet. The five rush parties featured such themes as the AEA cruise ship, toga party, Hollywood premiere and garden party. But the newest and most memorable theme was "A Year in the Life of Alpha Sig." The room was decorated in red and white, with balloons, streamers and banners hung everywhere. The rush committee even ordered red soda to go with the decor.

The rushees were greeted by dozens of enthusiastic members decked out in red and white. They were treated to a fashion show, with members in letters for all occasions, bathing suits and boxers, and formal

dresses for those romantic, spring evenings. The rushees were introduced to and educated about Delta Iota's activities by a running commentary from announcer and homecoming queen nominee, Suzanne Pike.

As an added treat, member Katie Sayers added comic relief to the evening by hamming it up, dressed as Raggedy Ann .

C. Drue Chichi

One of this year's most successful formal rush events for Delta Nu-A Chapter was a Christmas in July party.

For this rush event, members decorated a lounge at the school with a Christmas tree and various other Christmas decorations and Alpha Sigma Alpha paraphernalia. All of the members were wearing their white sweatshirts with the AEA crest.

Members and rushees were divided into four groups to play an ice breaker game. Each group was given toilet paper, construction paper and markers. The objective of the game was for each group to create something to do with Christmas using the given materials and members of their group. The groups came up with Rudolph , the red-nosed reindeer , a snowman, an angel and a Christmas tree.

To finish off the event, the members and rushees car-pooled over to Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity to serenade the members there as a prelude for an upcoming rush event with them .

University of Southern Indiana

Stephanie Usher

AEAs don't Mickey Mouse around The Delta Kappa Chapter didn't Mickey Mouse around this year with rush! With a wave of creativity, the AKs created a new rush theme party that turned out to be quite a success.

Following the theme , " Don ' t Mickey Mouse Around-Join Alpha Sigma Alpha, " the AKs put on mouse ears to become the original "Alphateers. " Rushees were escorted in to the theme song of the "Mickey Mouse Show, " altered with words for Alpha Sigma Alpha. Mickey Mouse tablecloths, cups, plates, napkins and posters brightened the room and set the stage for the theme party skit.

Seven members acted as the seven dwarfs . Each, in their own Bashful, Happy or Sleepy way, tried to convince Snow White, the rushee, to join Alpha Sigma Alpha. However, the wicked queen fed Snow White a poison apple that made her fall to the floor. But, a magic ladybug used her

Elan College

A renewed effort The fall of 1988 has been a revitalizing semester for the Delta Rhos.

Members have made tremendous strides toward greater recognition on campus through more creative rush parties, welcome letters to all freshmen women, frequent dorm-storming, messages on Elon's campus cable TV service and banners boasting of chapter pride and spirit.

Most members know, however, that the real way to impress and interest prospective rushees is through action. Increased visibility surely played a part in the chapter's recent first-runner up status in Sigma Chi Derby Days . Delta Rho competed with Elon's four other sororities in a week of daily spirit competition, Tshirt sales, charitable fundraising and nightly events. The Alpha Sigs placed first in the sales, spirit and

22 SPRING 1989 THE PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA

Collegiate Corner charitable funds events and were just one small point shy of winning the whole week's competition.

Members of Delta Rho made sure prospective rushees understood the Derby Days competition and also invited them to attend various events.

Jill Hall University of Texas at San Antonio

Four aims stressed The Delta Upsilon Chapter had an outstanding rush this fall. The excitement and exuberance of the pledges has boosted the whole chapter's spirit.

From rush, the chapter went straight into "Howdy Week," a week totally devoted to the pledges. Every day, they received a gift as a reminder of the four aims of the sorority.

On Tuesday, the pledges received small chalkboards as a token of the intellectual aim. Wednesday, the social aim was stressed with the gift of an AEA T -shirt. The physical aim was featured on Thursday, by the gift of a hula hoop. Finally, on Friday, the pledges were given a plant to represent the spiritual growth AEA provides.

Crystal Spence

Bloomsburg State University

A chapter tradition A tradition at Delta Chi Chapter has been its annual summer picnic.

This past summer was no exception.

The picnic was held at the AEA house on Saturday, July 23. The day turned out to be beautiful. Most of the Delta Chi members were present, as well as several alumnae.

Tammy Grore, summer house manager, could not have done a better job organizing the picnic. There was plenty of food that everyone contributed. Awards were presented to the pledge class having the most members in attendance and to the oldest alumna present. The winners were the 16th pledge class and Carla McCaleb Hemmen.

Susan Early Southern Arkansas University

A successful fall rush Epsilon Alpha Chapter had a very exciting fall rush. The chapter worked hard for successful rush parties. The most successful was the formal party.

THE PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA

Chapter members worked diligently to prepare the entertainment and food and find escorts. As the rushees were escorted from the dormitories to t~e Wesley Foundation they were given name tags and carnations.

Whe~ all the rushees arrived, everyone mtroduced themselves and the night was off to a good start. The escorts also served as waiters. After everyone had eaten, a game was played to help everyone get acquainted.

As the party came to an end , the rushees were escorted back to their dormitories, and EA members were left to clean up after another successful rush party.

Leah Hardy Richard and Lisa Dieker help Epsilon Beta Chapter President Laura Perry greet Greek presidents and housemothers at their open house at the University of Illinois.

University of Illinois

Reception honors houseparents The members of Epsilon Beta Chapter held an open house on Tuesday, Sept. 27, to welcome their new houseparents, Richard and Lisa Dieker, to the University of Illinois.

Many of the 24 other sorority presidents and housemothers from campus attended the fete and enjoyed a house tour.

Hors d'oeuvres, including shrimp cocktail, and ginger ale punch were served to the guests. The house was decorated with red and white balloons.

Lisa Dewitt Dieker was housemother for Gamma Omega Chapter at Eastern Illinois University last year. She is now a special education teacher in nearby Rantoul , IL, and coaches the seventh grade cheerleaders at the school.

Stacey Trella Virginia Commonwealth University

Rushees play Jeopardy Again this year, Epsilon Gamma Chapter had another successful rush.

Each rush party was successful, but the favorite was "AEA Jeopardy." The skit involved four members as three contestants and a hostess.

The rushees and the rest of the members had the opportunity to actively participate as the "studio audience."

The game contained entertaining and informative questions and answers about Epsilon Gamma celebrities, traditions, events and history.

"Red, White and You" was the title of the theme night party and in-

volved a slide presentation and a sing-along of "We Go Together" and "It's The Real Thing."

During the preference party, rushees participated in a friendship circle. A spectacular red and white balloon arrangement was used on bid night as an archway into the Alpha Sigma Alpha family.

Tracy Meehan St. Mary's College

Going for the gold This fall semester, the Epsilon Delta Chapter had a very exciting rush party. The theme of rush was "Going for the Gold."

Rush chairman, Amy Louise Loeffel , planned many exciting activities. One of the highlights of the evening was playing the game "Win, Lose, or Draw. " It was a great way for the rushees to intermingle with the sorority members .

After the activities, a slide show was presented.

Ann Marie Zeinetz Kutztown University

Chapter consultant visits The Epsilon Xi Colony participated in rush, held on campus from Aug. 31-Sept. 17. Karen Parsons, chapter consultant, visited during this time and her helpful hints gave the chapter a real boost.

Eileen Tuteller SPRING 1989 23

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