Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha I Fall 2017

HOENIX

Fall 2017 | Volume 103

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ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

2016-17 award winners p.8

2016-17 ASA Annual Report p.22

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STAY CONNECTED WITH ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA TWITTER ollow @ASAHQ on Twitter for weekly F motivational quotes, reminders and updates occurring within the national organization. Use #joyouslylive to join the conversation and interact with other members.

INSTAGRAM Follow @AlphaSigmaAlpha on Instagram to check out pictures and videos highlighting members, events and the latest items from Crimson Collections. Share your photos by tagging us and using the hashtag #joyouslylive. Also, tune in to our Instagram

stories for behind the scene previews and live takeovers during national events.

FACEBOOK Like Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority on Facebook for notifications and updates of happenings with the Sorority. Keep an eye out for various applications, event and program registrations, blog posts and photos from events.

PINTEREST Follow Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority on Pinterest for exclusive content such as personal and professional development

articles, spotlights on members in the news and ideas for working with the philanthropic partners. Links to the Alpha Sigma Alpha blog and the Phoenix can be accessed through our Pinterest page. My Sister’s Marketplace is also housed on the Pinterest page.

LINKEDIN Follow Alpha Sigma Alpha on LinkedIn for blog posts and job openings at national headquarters. In addition, join the private Alpha Sigma Alpha group to connect with other members and share job and internship opportunities.

FA L L 2 0 1 7 C O N T E NTS

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FEATURES Cover story, page 12:

Resilience boosters 8 2016-17 Sorority award winners 18 I am still here 22 2016-17 Annual Report 30 NPC Annual Meeting recap

D E PA R T ME N T S 4 Editor’s desk 5 From the president 6 News & events

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32 ASA Palms 35 From the archives 36 Woman of poise and purpose

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www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

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E DI T O R ’ S D E S K Volume 103, Number 4

Dear readers,

Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha (USPS 430-640) is

We all experience points in our lives where we face challenges and difficulties. Often, we are told to ‘be strong, you’ll get through this’, or ‘you need to be more resilient,’ but what does that really mean?

How can we achieve resilience?

published quarterly by Alpha Sigma Alpha, 9002 Vincennes Circle, Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018.

Periodicals postage paid at Indianapolis, IN, and additional mailing offices. Produced by Shelle Design Inc., www.shelledesign.com. ©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

Resilience is the ability to adapt when faced with difficulty, trauma or tragedy, and grow following adversity. When you have resilience, you harness inner strength that helps you bounce back. If you lack resilience, you might dwell on problems, feel victimized, become overwhelmed or turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms.

Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha, 9002 Vincennes Circle, Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018. Printed in the USA.

DEADLINES Winter

Sept. 10

Spring

Dec. 10

Summer March 10 Fall

June 10

EDITOR Kelsey Turner, DK

NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS 9002 Vincennes Circle

Resilience is important because it helps us to maintain balance in our lives during difficult or stressful periods of time, and can also protect us from the development of some mental health difficulties.

This edition of the Phoenix features stories of two resilient women. Let their stories serve as a reminder that you are resilient. You have suffered, you have struggled, you have worked through difficulty – and you have survived.

Let this issue teach you about yourself. There will be times in all of our lives when pressures mount or we experience pain and trauma, and at points we will struggle to cope. However, through learning about ourselves and realizing what we can and cannot manage, you can develop strategies to become resilient, to take these difficulties in our stride, and to feel confident in our abilities to manage hardship.

Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018 Phone: (317) 871-2920 Fax: (317) 871-2924 Email: asa@AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

Furthermore, we take a look at the excellence happening in Alpha Sigma Alpha through the 2016-17 Annual Report and the 2016-17 individual and chapter award winners. Enjoy!

STAY CONNECTED www.facebook.com/AlphaSigmaAlphaSorority www.twitter.com/asaHQ

Mizpah,

www.youtube.com/user/AlphaSigmaAlphaNHQ www.pinterest.com/AlphaSigmaAlpha www.instagram.com/AlphaSigmaAlpha

Kelsey Turner Director of Communication & Marketing

S HA R E Y O U R T HO U G HT S We always welcome your comments—both criticism and praise—about this publication.

Email asa@AlphaSigmaAlpha.org or send mail to: Editor, Alpha Sigma Alpha 9002 Vincennes Circle

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Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018 Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Fall 2017

P HOENIX

BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT Summer 2017 | Volume 103 GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT GENEROSITY G ENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GROWTH G ROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY IINTEGRITY NTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING ALSO IN THIS ISSUE GENEROSITY Foundation announces scholarship winners p.10 Meet ASA‘s 2017-18 consultants p.16 ENJOYMENT BALANCE GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE

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BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY GROWTH INTEGRITY LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY ENJOYMENT BALANCE GENEROSITY

F R O M T HE P R E S I D ENT

BY M E L I SSA KOC H M E R R I A M, E E | N AT I ON AL P RES I D EN T

I had a busy fall traveling for Alpha Sigma Alpha. I attended the installations of Tau Tau Chapter at Fort Hays State University in Kansas and Iota Zeta Chapter at Cleveland State University in Ohio.

I also had the opportunity to attend the 100th anniversary celebration of my chapter, Epsilon Epsilon Chapter at Emporia State University.

I have great pride knowing the hard work and dedication each of the new chapters poured into establishing Alpha Sigma Alpha on their campuses. This was shown by each emerging chapter’s desire to learn about the sisterhood, conduct official business meetings and recruit new members. It was my honor to join each of them for their first milestones including their initiations into Alpha Sigma Alpha and the installation of their chapters.

The 100-year celebration of Epsilon Epsilon Chapter was incredibly impactful as women from different generations came together to celebrate and reminisce about their collegiate years in Alpha Sigma Alpha. They shared highlights from their decade including songs, curfews, date parties, recruitment, fashion trends, current news events and more. It was neat to see how the chapter had evolved but also to witness the things that have stood the test of time.

A couple things stood out to me while attending these celebrations.

First, the women who filled the rooms were women of poise and purpose. Each woman in attendance shared my core values and I was proud to call them sisters. The second thing I observed is the joy that results from the close association of college friends. It was a delight to see the loving friendships and sisterhood that had developed because of Alpha Sigma Alpha.

History tells us that there are always natural ebbs, flows and constants in any organization. Some things are out of our control, while other times we will have the opportunity to rise to the occasion and make an impact. There will be challenges and successes along the way. While the challenges might seem insurmountable at the time, ultimately, they will help us be better prepared for the future.

During the early years of Alpha Sigma Alpha, beginning in 1901, we installed 13 new chapters. But by 1912, we had diminished to four chapters and had lost all the national leadership. One year later in 1913, Alpha Chapter was the only active chapter of Alpha Sigma Alpha. I’m sure it would have been easy to give up, but instead, in 1914, we re-organized with four Alpha Chapters.

Melissa Koch Merriam, EE and Kat Wolfington Harth, EE, at Epsilon Epsilon 100th anniversary celebration.

It was resiliency that defined the Alpha Sigma Alpha members in 1913.

Although I am sure these members were discouraged to lose chapters, it was their ability to recover quickly that ensured the Sorority would continue. Their actions made it possible for all of us to be members of Alpha Sigma Alpha. The one active chapter in 1913 is now 98 active chapters.

116 years later, we must continue to challenge ourselves so future women have the same opportunity. We must set up our chapters to be resilient for years to come. We must take advantage of growth, creating a giving culture and staying relevant in the current campus environment. We must always strive to do things better.

The legacy started by the members in the early 1900s has been continued by countless Alpha Sigma Alpha women. We are all part of the history, the legacy of Alpha Sigma Alpha. How will you help ensure the future of the Sorority?

In ASA,

Melissa Koch Merriam, EE National President @melissamerriam

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

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NEWS & E V E N T S

CORRECTION: The Hermes Society inductees list included in the spring 2017 issue was incomplete. A total of 68 collegiate and alumnae members where inducted in to the Hermes Society during 2016-17. Additional women inducted into the Hermes Society include:

TELL US YOUR STORY! Alpha Sigma Alpha is always looking for good news and inspirational stories. The Sorority wants to hear about the good work you, a sister, a collegiate or alumnae chapter is doing. YOUR story could be featured in the Phoenix.

There are three great ways to share: 1. Email kturner@alphasigmaalpha.org 2. Send mail to: Editor, Alpha Sigma Alpha, 9002 Vincennes Circle, Indianapolis, IN 46268 3. Submit using our brand new online form found at www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org/ PhoenixSubmissions

Fall 2016 Nicole Stephens, Epsilon Upsilon Spring 2017 Andrea Marcal, Theta Sigma Savannah Marker, Theta Alpha Madison Medi, Theta Upsilon Katelyn Preston, Theta Epsilon Gretchen Reed, Eta Eta Jillian Reuter, Delta Sigma Madisyn Reynolds, Phi Phi Melissa Richards, Delta Gamma Rosemary Roberts, Zeta Nu

MY SISTER'S MARKETPLACE You may be “shopping local” but don’t forget to shop “My Sister’s Marketplace” on Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority’s official Pinterest. Follow the three My Sister’s Marketplace boards to find out what sister’s business you can support.

Nicole Roberts, Theta Epsilon Phaze Roeder, Zeta Alpha Lauren Russell, Phi Phi Gina Schaefer, Theta Beta Alyssa Schuetz, Nu Nu Lauren Sebusch, Gamma Psi

Do you own a small business, independently consult for a direct sales company or have you published a book? Submit your information at www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org/ marketplace to be added to the My Sister’s Marketplace boards.

Madison Shumate, Delta Sigma Allison Sommers, Zeta Omicron Megan Souter, Theta Omega Diana Tang, Theta Tau Tracy Tenesaca, Theta Sigma

MISSING SISTERS

Kiera Terrell, Theta Omega

Over the years, Alpha Sigma Alpha has lost contact with some sisters. Alpha Sigma Alphas are busy joyously living each day to its ultimate good – moving to new cities, graduating college, getting married, starting new jobs – and therefore sometimes we forget to update our information.

Emma Thompson, Zeta Omicron

Please take a moment to review the list of sisters with missing information at www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org/missing. Share with sisters you see are missing, or you can update their information on their behalf.

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Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Fall 2017

Tori Wood, Beta Nu

New Year, New Apparel! crimsoncollections.com

2016- 17 AWARD S – C H AP T ER

2016-17 Chapter & Individual Awards 2016-17 COLLEGIATE CHAPTER AWARDS Academic Excellence Award – Spring 2016 Zeta Eta, Rockhurst University, MO Academic Excellence Award – Fall 2016 Zeta Eta, Rockhurst University, MO Rose Marie Fellin Financial Excellence Award Zeta Eta, Rockhurst University, MO Recruitment Excellence Award Theta Omega, University of New Haven, CT Sidney Gremillion Allen Panhellenic Award Eta Eta, Pittsburg State University, KS Service and Giving Award Beta Nu, Murray State University, KY

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THE CROWN OF EXCELLENCE is the highest award bestowed on a collegiate chapter. The Crown of Excellence Chapter has demonstrated the highest level of achievement of all four-star chapters.

Eta Eta, Pittsburg State University, KS

Aspire chapters have members who have shown a commitment to each other, their chapter and the national organization by upholding the high ideals of the Sorority.

Seek chapters have members who have built on that commitment and have embraced the responsibility of membership to ensure that the Sorority remains strong.

Epsilon Epsilon, Emporia State University, KS Alpha, Longwood University, VA Beta Lambda, University of Central Arkansas Delta Epsilon, Mansfield University, PA Delta Nu-B, Kettering University, MI Epsilon Alpha, Southern Arkansas University Theta Lambda, Frostburg State University, MD Iota Beta, Texas A&M University - Texarkana

Alpha Beta, Truman State University, MO Delta Gamma, West Chester University, PA Epsilon Tau, University of Maryland – Baltimore County Theta Eta, Rogers State University, OK Theta Sigma, Southern Connecticut State University Theta Psi, Colorado Mesa University Theta Omicron, University of Missouri – Kansas City

Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Fall 2017

Attain chapters have members who have vowed

fully to uphold their role, responsibility and commitment to being an energizing influence in the future of their chapter and Alpha Sigma Alpha.

Nu Nu, Drexel University, PA Beta Theta, Central Michigan University Beta Upsilon, Indiana State University Delta Kappa, University of Southern Indiana Delta Sigma, Saginaw Valley State University, MI Delta Upsilon, University of Texas at San Antonio Zeta Phi, Illinois Institute of Technology Theta Epsilon, Schreiner University, TX

Four-star chapters uphold the high ideals

of the Sorority in the areas of membership, academic excellence, finances, membership education, chapter operations, philanthropy, national meetings, ritual, organizational image, national bylaws, policies and procedures, advisory board and alumnae involvement.

2016-17 FOUR-STAR CHAPTERS Eta Eta, Pittsburg State University, KS Phi Phi, Northwest Missouri State University Beta Nu, Murray State University, KY Beta Sigma, Missouri State University Zeta Eta, Rockhurst University, MO Zeta Mu, Missouri Western State University Zeta Nu, Moravian College, PA

2016-17 ALUMNAE CHAPTER AWARDS Awards for outstanding membership growth, Panhellenic engagement, service and giving, collegiate chapter relations, programming and communications were presented to six alumnae chapters, in addition to the current recognition levels of palm, star and crown achievement. Chapters receiving palm, star or crown recognition are pursuing outstanding chapter programs and operations.

The Sorority also presented the Alumnae Crown of Excellence Award. The Crown of Excellence Award is presented to an alumnae chapter that demonstrates the lifetime dedication to the Sorority through chapter management and programming.

Crown of Excellence Greater Kansas City Alumnae Chapter, MO Outstanding Membership Growth Award San Antonio Alumnae Chapter Outstanding Alumnae Panhellenic Engagement Award Dallas Alumnae Chapter

Theta Alpha, Coe College, IA Theta Zeta, Indiana UniversityPurdue University Indianapolis Theta Gamma, Christopher Newport University, VA Theta Tau, Capital University, OH Theta Omega, University of New Haven, CT

Outstanding Service and Giving Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter Outstanding Collegiate Chapter Support Denver Alumnae Chapter Outstanding Programs Windy City Alumnae Chapter, IL Communications Excellence Cincinnati Alumnae Chapter Palm Recognition Ark-La-Tex Alumnae Chapter New York City Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter Star Recognition Houston Alumnae Chapter Amarillo Alumnae Chapter, TX

Crown Recognition Boston Alumnae Chapter Buffalo Alumnae Chapter, NY Central Ohio Alumnae Chapter Central Pennsylvania Alumnae Chapter Charlotte Alumnae Chapter, NC Chicago Metro Alumnae Chapter Chicago North Suburban Alumnae Chapter Chicago West Alumnae Chapter Cincinnati Alumnae Chapter Dallas Alumnae Chapter Denver Alumnae Chapter Greater Jacksonville Alumnae Chapter, FL Greater Kansas City Alumnae Chapter, MO Greater Valley Forge Alumnae Chapter, PA Indianapolis Alumnae Chapter Milwaukee Alumnae Chapter Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter Philadelphia Metro Alumnae Chapter Pittsburg, KS Alumnae Chapter Richmond Alumnae Chapter, VA San Antonio Alumnae Chapter Southeastern North Carolina Alumnae Chapter Springfield Alumnae Chapter, IL St. Louis Alumnae Chapter Tampa Bay Alumnae Chapter, FL Tidewater VA Alumnae Chapter Tulsa Alumnae Chapter, OK Western Pennsylvania Alumnae Chapter Windy City Alumnae Chapter, IL

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

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2016- 17 AWARD S – IN D IV IDU A L

OUTSTANDING NEW MEMBER AWARD The Outstanding New Member Award was established to honor and recognize a new member who has been an exceptional contributor to her chapter in her first year of membership. The recipient of the annual award has demonstrated an excellent spirit and attitude including willingness to accept responsibility, the ability to work well with other chapter members and has the potential for taking leadership roles in the chapter and in the national organization once she graduates.

Emily Sporer, ZN, Moravian College, PA ouble major in early D childhood education and science Serves as chapter scholarship chairman Serves as Panhellenic council treasurer Works at the Boys and Girls club as a community fellow Volunteers with Autism Speaks, Guardian Angels Church, and the Girl Scouts “Emily exemplifies responsibility in every aspect of her life. She excels in intellect, scholarship, community involvement, and relationships. Emily always has a smile on her face and embraces anything that comes her way.”

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OUTSTANDING ATHLETE AWARD Alpha Sigma Alpha created the Outstanding Athlete Award to recognize an undergraduate member who exemplifies the physical aim by representing her college/university as a member of an intercollegiate athletic team. She demonstrates sportsmanship, athletic ability, leadership and teamwork while being actively engaged in Alpha Sigma Alpha.

Elizabeth Dwyer, GG, Northwestern Oklahoma State University ember of the Northwestern M Oklahoma State University Volleyball team, playing as right-side hitter Selected for the AllConference All-Academic Team two years in a row Serves as the senior volleyball captain for the fall 2017 season Serves as chapter president Involved in Student Athletic Advisory Council, Psychology Club, and Intramural Sports “Liz is a remarkable person.

She has brought the values her team believes in to the Sorority and has helped us grow stronger and grow as a sisterhood. Our chapter has been rebuilding and Liz has shown us how to balance accountability and care.”

Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Fall 2017

GENEROUS SPIRIT AWARD The Generous Spirit Award was established to recognize an undergraduate member who demonstrates the often intangible qualities associated with the Alpha Sigma Alpha core value of generosity. She exemplifies character and concern for others while serving her community and living the Creed of Alpha Sigma Alpha in all of her interactions.

Kara Lewis, QO, University of Missouri – Kansas City

Junior, majoring in writing Serves as chapter service & giving chairman Editor and writer for the campus newspaper, University News Studied abroad in France twice and serves as a study abroad ambassador Conducted a service project to reduce pollution in a local river, volunteers with political campaigns, is a women’s rights activist and spends time volunteering at Kansas City Special Olympics and Girls on the Run 5K events “Kara loves life and joyously lives each day with the guidance of Alpha Sigma Alpha’s values. She is motivated by the motto “root to rise” emphasizing a humble connection to one’s environment leading to personal growth and generosity.”

FROST FIDELITY AWARD Alpha Sigma Alpha’s Frost Fidelity Award is based on the more intangible sorority values and ideals. “Fidelity” implies devotion and unswerving loyalty and allegiance. This award goes to a woman with commitment and exemplary service, who demonstrates her regard for others by her actions, who tackles problems large or small and who lends abilities to all projects. This collegiate award was established by Emma Coleman Frost, PP, and her husband, Donald.

Aubrey West, DN-B, Kettering University, MI ajoring in mechanical M engineering Served as her chapter’s vice president of public relations & recruitment and the service & giving chairman Member of Rho Lambda, Pi Tau Sigma Honors Society, Ethics Club, Student Association for Global Engineering, and COMPASS orientation crew member Serves as a LITE Mentor, a summer program for girls going into STEM Coaches her high school dance team “Making sure everyone feels loved is something that Aubrey considers invaluable. She is constantly sending chapter members positive vibes and love. Aubrey gives her time and energy to impact others.”

ELIZABETH BIRD SMALL AWARD The Elizabeth Bird Small Award is given annually in memory of Elizabeth Bird Small, Pi Pi Chapter member and former chapter advisor. It is regarded as the highest honor that the Sorority can bestow upon an undergraduate member. For this award Alpha Sigma Alpha recognizes outstanding academic excellence, leadership talents within the chapter and substantial commitments and accomplishments within campus and community environments.

Abigail Hollihan, QH, Rogers State University, OK ajoring in medical/ M molecular biology and maintains a 4.0 GPA Serves as chapter president and treasurer of the Panhellenic Council President’s Leadership Class scholarship recipient, given to 1 of 40 students who excel in academics, leadership and community involvement Involved in the Honors Program, Pre-professional Health Club and Student Government Association Volunteers for Claremore Animal Shelter, Safenet, Special Olympics Oklahoma, and at a local physicians office “Abigail demonstrates self-sacrifice and strength throughout her daily life. She takes initiative, gives of herself whenever help is needed, and embodies happiness in order to better our members and the organization.”

OUTSTANDING ADVISOR AWARD The Outstanding Advisor Award was established in 2004 as a way to recognize the unswerving loyalty and dedication of Alpha Sigma Alpha’s collegiate chapter advisors. Advisors are recognized by this award for their outstanding service, serving as a role model, living according to the Ritual and perpetuating Alpha Sigma Alpha’s core values. Chapters and volunteers may nominate any advisor of a chapter.

Ashley Guerrea Dunn, QB, Chapter Advisor for Theta Omega Chapter, University of New Haven, CT Ashley began her service to Alpha Sigma Alpha in the fall of 2015 as an emerging chapter advisor. In 2016 she became the chapter advisor for the Theta Omega Chapter at the University of New Haven, CT. Here is what the Theta Omega Chapter president had to say about Ashley: “Ashley is a woman of poise and purpose.

She is a shining example of what an alumna sister of Alpha Sigma Alpha should be. She is concerned with the success of the Sorority and does everything in her power to ensure we improve.”

“She is the big sister to 93 founding members. She has been there for our wins and she has been there for our losses. Ashley is always there to talk through issues and then to help empower us to find a solution.”

In addition to her role as chapter advisor, Ashley has participated in curriculum development for Advisor Institute, facilitated at The Academy and Emma Coleman Frost Leadership Development Institute, and is a member of the Connecticut Alumnae Association.

OUTSTANDING FRATERNITY & SORORITY ADVISOR AWARD The Outstanding Fraternity/Sorority Advisor Award has been established to recognize a campus professional for exceptional service to Alpha Sigma Alpha and his or her campus community.

The individual exemplifies the core values of Alpha Sigma Alpha, serves as a role model for students and has made an outstanding contribution to Greek life.

Eric Pope, Associate Director of Fraternity & Sorority Life at Rochester Institute of Technology, NY Eric was nominated for this award by the Gamma Iota Chapter at Rochester Institute of Technology, NY. When nominating Eric for this award, the Gamma Iota Chapter said: “Eric Pope has had a large impact on the RIT champs. He has grown the Interfraternal Council to 15 chapters. He has helped our Panhellenic council to develop into a wellrun, dominating council, which is opening up the opportunity for our campus to add another Panhellenic chapter.”

Eric previously served as the associate director of student organization & leadership development at Gannon University and the assistant director of student development at Iona College.

He received his bachelor’s degree in history from Edinboro University in 2003 and his master’s degree in counseling - student personnel services in 2005. He is a proud member of Theta Chi Fraternity. He serves the fraternity as a counselor to chapters located in upstate New York as well as a volunteer for their educational programs on the local, regional and national level. Eric also serves as a volunteer for the North-American Interfraternity Conference, the Northeast Greek Leadership Association, and the Edinboro University Alumni Association Board of Directors.

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

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Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Fall 2017

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

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will occur and life will inevitably knock you

“Own your story, own your failures, and realize that your failure is a part of what makes you human, teaches you resilience and shows you what you are truly made of.”

down. However, we have the power to rise

- Kim Becking

C

HALLENGES, UNEXPECTED CHANGES and uncertainty are guarantees in life.

Job insecurity. Health challenges. Relationship struggles. Loss. Failures. We live in an everchanging and stressful world where adversity

above the hard, recreate and reinvent a life that works for us, on our terms.

I’ve had my fair share of reinventions in my life. It’s been over fifteen years since I first heard the words – “You have breast cancer.” You think it can’t happen to you.

You say, “I’m 30, I’m healthy, and I have no family history.” Life was going according to plan – but all of that changed with those four simple words. One week I’m planning my son, Brandon’s, two-year-old birthday party and the next week I’m starting my first round of chemotherapy.

Fifteen years later, I am happy to say that I am now in complete remission because I was doing my monthly self-breast exam, felt the lump, and took immediate action.

I had been doing my monthly breast exams because of my fellow Alpha Sigma Alpha sister, Patti Balwanz, who was diagnosed at the young age of 24. Because of her, I found my lump and caught it early. Unfortunately, Patti lost her battle with breast cancer in 2003 at the age of 29. But because of Patti and early detection, I am here today. And although I am not thankful for my cancer, or my divorce, or the dozens of other hardships that I have faced in my life; I am thankful for the lessons they taught me. I continue to rise above my adversities and thrive.

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Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Fall 2017

My own story of thriving is one that I can tell through many chapters – some expected, but others very much unexpected: my battle with breast cancer at the age of 30; the unexpected challenges of marriage, family and divorce; having a second chance at love; remarrying a widower with two small children; and adjusting to a new life in a blended household.

I never let fear, failure or tough times stop me from moving forward and creating a life I love. I’ve seen pain. I’ve felt it. I’ve fallen to my knees, prayed, asked why and cried more than I thought was possible. But I truly believe that each struggle and hardship prepared me for the next. It may not have been easy to see that at the time, but I see it now. The greatest teacher in my life has been my hardship.

The ability to find the lesson, boost resilience and keep moving forward no matter what you are facing is what will allow you to rise every single time. Your resilience is like a muscle, with practice it can be strengthened. You can learn to allow the adversity in your life to serve as the fuel to propel you forward – faster, further and stronger than ever before – you just need some “Resilience Boosters.”

#1

GIVE YOURSELF PERMISSION TO FEEL

Feeling leads to healing. You are allowed to feel whatever it is that you need to feel.

The best advice I ever received was from fellow Alpha Sigma Alpha sister, Patti.

She gave me a two-sided handwritten card as soon as I was diagnosed. Fifteen years later and I still have that card in my desk, and pull it out when I need to remind myself that I am allowed to feel.

Here is her advice, and now my advice to anyone facing a hard time in life: YOU ARE ALLOWED… to be sad, to feel helpless, to be tired, to be depressed, to be lonely, to feel like no one can relate, to wish this never happened to you - or to others, to feel “behind,” to wonder “what if?”, to long for simple things, and simple times… to wish for more – but on the flip side…

YOU ARE ALLOWED… to feel lucky, to feel blessed, to feel loved, to be surrounded by people who care, to feel nurtured, to be inspired, to feel “chosen,” to be motivated, to be filled with faith, to do what you can, to learn to ask for help, TO Make a DIFFERENCE! WHICH SIDE OF THE CARD ARE YOU ON TODAY… YOU ARE ALLOWED.

What great advice for us all. It is okay to be on either side of the card – to laugh or to cry, to feel blessed but also to feel afraid.

Whether you are going through a health challenge, a work challenge, a rough time at home or trying to just survive the craziness of your week or day, you are allowed.

#2

EMBRACE YOUR IMPERFECTLY PERFECT SELF

Learning to love myself, no matter what, has been one of the most powerful resilience boosters I have found. We all have that inner bully in our head that tells us we are not good enough, smart enough, strong enough and the list of “not enough” goes on, but we are enough. We just have to believe it. The longest and most important relationship we will have in our lives is with ourselves.

We must learn to love ourselves. And that starts with loving our imperfectly perfect selves just the way we are – with our fears, insecurities and yes, even our scars. We are all so much more than our scars. I know for me, it took time. I had to stop being so hard on myself – accepting me for who I was and loving all of me.

After my cancer, I eventually became comfortable with my scars – inside and out.

I have realized that we are so much more than our breasts, our scars and our outward appearance. It is what one fellow survivor called our “inner cleavage” and we all have it. It is that inner spirit that was daring me to keep living; the beauty that exists when everything else is stripped away. Finding self-love allowed me to not only survive but thrive after my cancer.

I thought that I had reached my quota of life challenges after my cancer, but more

unexpected change was heading my way: a divorce. My high school sweetheart and husband left me for a good friend and neighbor, who also took my name, Kim Carlos, requiring me to not only reinvent myself but also reinvent my company and personal brand. My life, my hopes and my dreams crumbled.

When I was not sure I could find my true self again, I had to learn to love myself unconditionally. I had to learn to slay my inner bully. To look in the mirror and tell myself that I was more than enough. In the end, what I learned is that no one and no challenge can take away my zest for life. I loved who I was, but getting there took time.

I have learned over the years to fall in love with myself again and again. I learned to love me, for me, imperfections and all.

My life has been full of reinvention and doing so on my own terms. It has not come without sacrifice, fears, insecurities, “what if’s” and my own inner bullies. This new life comes with many wonders: wondering if my cancer will return, wondering if I could trust again – fully enough to truly make my new marriage work, wondering if my new husband would leave and wondering if I was enough. Through all of the fears, insecurities and doubts, I have learned I have love. Love for myself.

Love for my family. Love for life. In the end, I am merely practicing, not perfecting life. I am doing the best I can and that is more than enough. The hope, love and joy outweigh any negativity that my own mind may create on a daily basis.

I am imperfectly perfect just the way I am.

I am here. I am smiling. I am crying. I love with all of my heart. That is all any of us can

From top to bottom: Beta Sigma Chapter sisters cheer Kim on in 1992, Kim surrounded by sisters, the original two-sided, handwritten advice card Patti Balwanz, BS, gave to Kim after her breast cancer diagnosis, Kim and Patti together, Kim with her husband Jason and their three children Brandon, Adelaide and Jack.

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

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do. So today, my challenge to you is to love yourself just the way you are.

#3

FIND YOUR GRIT AND NEVER GIVE UP

A key to boosting your resilience when facing hard times is to find the courage and resolve to keep going no matter what. During the tough times, we must learn to grit up, not give up. We must listen to that inner voice that tells us we can do it regardless of what others may say. We must know that quitting is not an option. We roll up our sleeves, do the hard work and get it done. The outer bullies and our own inner bullies may try to tell us that we cannot do it, but we must learn to let those words and doubt fall on deaf ears and instead believe in ourselves and push forward against all odds. That’s grit.

Sometimes grit comes easy and other times it is more difficult. There have been times where my grit was buried deep inside of me and I had to dig to find it. But in the end, I always found it. Whether it was on those days where I was too tired to climb the stairs after my cancer surgery and peed my pants, or on those days where I hid under the covers after my divorce, with my world falling apart. I always got up. I always got out of bed. It may not have been easy. But in the end, I had a choice. I found my grit. And you can too.

#4

REALIZE FAILURE IS A GIFT

I have failed a lot in my life. Many people do not see the failures. The reality is that we all fail. Nobody likes to talk about their failures. People do not post them on Facebook. They do not tell you about it over coffee. They do not share. It is easy

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Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Fall 2017

to think everyone has awesome perfect lives but we all have failures. You may only see the successes - when folks are at the high point but believe me, there were many failures before they reached that summit of success.

There's no such thing as failure – only missed opportunities when you give up or do not try, and lessons learned when you miss the mark and fail. The important lesson is to use your failure as momentum to move you forward – that is the gift of failure.

You get as much from your losses as you do from your victories. The losses are there to wake you up. Your life is bigger than any one failure. Try, fail, and then relax; it is going to be okay.

Failures happen. Do not be overwhelmed and lose it – your life is bigger than that one moment or one failure. Do not allow past challenges and failures to dictate your future.

We all fail. Failures are our best teachers – learn from them and grow from them.

Own your story, own your failures and realize that your failure is a part of what makes you human, teaches you resilience, and shows you what you are truly made of.

The ability to fall down, brush yourself off, and try again is what will allow you to rise above your hardship. I challenge you to see failure as the gift that it is.

#5

L EAN ON SISTERS AND SURROUND YOURSELF WITH GOOD

When you are faced with hardships in life, having a network of support around you is critical. Learning to lean on others, ask for help and accept help will help you survive

whatever life throws at you. Surround yourself with good and let go of the rest. I would not be where I am right now without my Alpha Sigma Alpha sisters. They have all played a special part in my life, through the good times and the bad. They have been the one constant in my life no matter what for the last 28 years.

We have been through it all – cancer, the loss of a parent, infertility, divorce, sharing the birth of our children, health issues, jobs, new relationships, new families, parenting struggles, marriage issues, aging parents and day to day silliness. When I was facing cancer and scared to death, they were there to help me pull out my hair, hold my hand, change my bandages, clean my toilets and wipe away my tears. They were also there to make me laugh until my stitches split open. They were there for the birth of my son. They were there when my world fell apart after my husband left and I was heartbroken, lost and truly wondering how I would go on. And they were there when I found love again and started the next chapter of my life with my new family. They have always been there and I am so truly blessed.

At times, I know it is easy for us all to get "busy" with life, with school, with the kids, with day to day things – and we think that we do not have time right now - but in the end, "true" sisters are the one thing you can count on. Do not ever take your sisters for granted. Do not get so busy in life that you do not make the time. My sisters feed my soul. I am so grateful I have continued to make the time over the years no matter what is going on in my life. It has not been easy and I admit that I have sometimes dropped the ball, went MIA and not returned a call or message because of the craziness of my

“It is impossible to live without failing at something.

Unless you live so cautiously that you might as well not have lived at all. In which case you fail by default.”

- J.K. Rowling

life, but those are the times that I need them most. So, I keep showing up. I keep trying to be that sister. I know what those sisters have meant to me. That is the power of this sisterhood. Sisters will be there to help you through whatever you face in life.

#6

L OVE LIFE AND JOYOUSLY LIVE EACH DAY TO ITS ULTIMATE GOOD

Time is something we can never get back.

There is no other today; this exact moment will never happen again. On the days where you are angry or stressed and overwhelmed, on the days where you want to turn silly little things into big disagreements with loved ones, on the days where you are having a hard time seeing the positive – remember that you are here, in this moment and that is something to be grateful for.

Gratitude opens the door to peace. It allows you to be truly present and thankful for what you have right now at this moment, not what you think you want or need. It makes us realize that we have enough, even on the days where we are struggling.

Find something you are grateful for every single day. Be grateful to be alive – sometimes it is easy to forget that we are blessed beyond measure because we are here, alive and breathing. On days where I struggle, I remind myself that 15 years after my cancer diagnosis, I am still here – breathing, alive and cancer free. I remind myself that so many others, including Patti, would give anything to be here one more day. In finding gratitude for living in the midst of the hard, I have found peace and joy that have allowed me to joyously live each day to its ultimate good. That is my wish for you.

Life is going to hand us hardships. Life is going to fall apart sometimes, but the beauty is that we can rise above and it can be even more beautiful. Today I challenge you to rise above your hardship, never give up and keep moving forward no matter what.

In doing so, you will find a life that is full of hope. A life that is full of happy. A life that is full of love. q

Kim Becking, BS, graduated from Missouri State University with a bachelor’s in marketing in 1994, and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law in 1997. She is a recipient of the Alpha Sigma Alpha Recognition of Eminence Award. Kim, along with fellow Beta Sigma, Patti Balwanz, are co-authors of the book, Nordie’s at Noon, which shares the personal stories of four women “too young” for breast cancer. Kim owns her own leadership and personal development company where she is a motivational speaker and thought leader who helps others boost their resilience, reduce stress and overwhelm, conquer change and communicate, connect and create positive momentum in their professional and personal life no matter what life throws at them. Kim has been featured in national media such as People, SELF, The New York Times, USA Today, Good Morning America and Lifetime Television for her expertise on resilience and thriving after changes, challenges and adversity.

Kim and her husband, Jason, currently reside in Columbia, MO, with their three children, Brandon, Adelaide and Jack.

To sign up to receive more of Kim’s Resilience Boosters, please visit her website at www.kimbecking.com.

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

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olence which ult and/or vi sexual assa t ou ab n io at ntains inform is article co ARNING: Th TRIGGER W

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Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Fall 2017

ed other impact rvivors and gering to su ig tr be ay m

parties.

BY MAE FLORES, DH

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

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o back in time to when you were a teenager.

It is New Year’s Eve, close to midnight. You are on the dance floor with a group of friends. The DJ is playing all the right songs and with every moment that passes, excitement fills the air.

You are dressed in a fancy gown, formal attire, but after the heavy dinner you just ate you cannot imagine keeping something that tight on for any longer. You whisper to your friends, “I will be right back.”

Aware of the time and not wanting to miss any more of the fun, you dash to your hotel room – strappy sandals off your feet and hanging by your fingertips. You see the room and fumble for the room key from the tiny pouch in your other hand. There is nothing to this. You have slid that keycard in that slot plenty of times already in the last few days.

You push it down and hear the beep as the little light at the door turns green, telling you to press the door handle down. As you lean your body forward ready to go through that door, you hear heavy feet approaching. You think it is going to pass you by, but then it leaps swiftly behind you and stops. All of a sudden you feel a heavy weight and pressure throwing you aggressively forward. Whatever it is, it throws your door open, pushes you inside the room and tosses you into the dark, unlit bedroom.

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Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Fall 2017

It takes you a moment to understand what is happening before this force, this powerful being, lands on your back, and you realize you are trapped.

There is nowhere to go. The rest is just darkness, a forever mystery that you will never ever understand.

What happens in that darkness brands you for life and labels you a victim, forever.

New Year's Eve will never be the same. You will never wear that dress again. You will never see your body in the same way again. As a matter of fact, you will never feel safe again. Not in that carefree, 18-year-old way, you once did.

Now imagine time passing, 16 years to be exact.

You are an adult, and you have children - maybe even a daughter. Years have passed and you have moved on as best as you could with your life. You have many regrets and have unintentionally hurt yourself and others. You have never really loved or even trusted anyone. Relationships are hard and real connection is often faked. But you moved on, right? The past is the past; that was then this is now.

Then one night, you are out with a friend and as you are walking back to your car, with keys in hand, you are wrestled to the ground and you land back on your stomach in a nearby park, in the dark once more. You are eighteen all over again. All the self-defense classes, all the therapy, everything you have forgotten comes back to the surface. You are forced to deal with it.

Forced and forced.

Again and again and again.

What are you supposed to do? Once is a lot, twice is a message. What actual message do you take away

from a series of life experiences such as this?

Do you allow yourself to crack, mentally and emotionally? It is not just you anymore. There are kids. Do you keep yourself in the dark? Do we give up?

to. Make your life what you want it to finally be.

No. We GET UP.

I will be everything no one expected me to be and I will change my trajectory. I will change my fate.

We tell the world and everyone who disrupts it that we are different. The world will expect you to fail. That is the intended path. They will say, “You are not expected to achieve. Or thrive. Or be happy.” “How can she,”they will ask “When it happened not once, but twice!”

Your life becomes a sick headline on a tabloid.

People give you a pass, a pat on the back and say, “We understand why you cannot achieve and we feel so bad for you. You are meant to break down. You are supposed to have a completely different future because of what happened to you.”

Stop and look at all of us. We have all gone through different kinds of hardships and trauma.

And yet, we are still here. You are still here. I’m still here. We did not fall apart and we do not have to - not in the way we are expected to.

Think of your regrets, traumas and hangups. Think of all the things that bring guilt – divorces, infidelities, lies you may have spoken.

Think of lost loved ones and things you failed to say. Now do what seems impossible…. let it go. Talk about it. Accept it. Be fearless.

Look at us: WE ARE STILL HERE! Every single day we are fortunate enough to have the choice to make it. To be successes.

Take the risks, rebrand yourselves if you have

We need to tell ourselves…

I will do it all.

Laugh at your ironic good fortune and the way you tricked it.

Tell it, “Look, I. AM. STILL. HERE.”

Mae Flores, DH, is an award-winning FilipinaAmerican actress and two-time sexual assault survivor turned activist. In 2013, Mae was awarded the highest honor in entertainment at the Filipino American Hall of Fame for her contribution to the arts and entertainment. She’s a Goodwill Ambassador for various non-profits focused on the prevention of violence against women and girls.

In 2016, EuropeAid honored her as one of the Top 200 Women in the World Development Wall of Fame.

Mae was recently a featured speaker for TEDxHoboken Women where she delievered her speech “I Am Still Here.”

She is a fervent advocate against sexual assault and speaks of her experience at various venues.

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

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A NNUAL RE P O RT

ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA

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Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Fall 2017

Academics: By the numbers FALL 2016 AVERAGES Average chapter GPA: 3.134 Average all-Panhellenic GPA: 3.142 Average all-women undergraduate GPA: 3.058 Average all-campus GPA: 2.937 Of these reports: 63 had a 3.0 or higher overall chapter GPA 56 met or exceeded the campus all-women’s undergraduate GPA 47 met or exceeded the campus all-Panhellenic GPA SPRING 2016 AVERAGES Average chapter GPA: 3.17 Average all-Panhellenic GPA: 3.16 Average all women undergraduate GPA: 3.1 Average all-campus GPA: 2.98 Of these reports: 56 had a 3.0 or higher overall chapter GPA 44 met or exceeded the campus all-women’s undergraduate GPA 37 met or exceeded the campus allPanhellenic GPA

Women’s Advancement Series The Women’s Advancement Series are opportunities for alumnae to continue their development as women of poise

and purpose. Alpha Sigma Alpha launched the Women’s Advancement Series in fall 2016. The series includes: Development events that provide alumnae and graduating seniors with opportunities for personal and professional development through an in-person workshop.

Quarterly alumnae membership education newsletters. Each newsletter contains links to articles and videos corresponding to Alpha Sigma Alpha’s core values and aims to encourage continued development for every alumna in any stage of life.

Alpha Sigma Alpha’s partnership with Levo League provides members free access to Levo’s Complete Career Toolkit. The toolkit is comprised of various courses that offer videos, exercises and other resources to help alumnae navigate their career at any stage.

Hermes Society The Alpha Sigma Alpha Hermes Society is an academic honors society created exclusively for members of Alpha Sigma Alpha. In 2016-17, 68 Alpha Sigma Alphas were inducted into the Hermes Society; and since 2012, 239 have been inducted.

"The quarterly alumnae membership education newsletters are a great self-development component for Alpha Sigma Alpha alumnae. The newsletters allow you to review the items at your pace, on your own time, when you are ready to take time for yourself. The beauty of the newsletters is that they are an engaging combination of videos, blogs and self-guided reflection around topics that women face in today's world. It is definitely a 'you only get what you put into it' component." – Nikki Kawalec, ZU

We will cultivate an environment that promotes educated, healthy, responsible women.

• Emphasize healthy behaviors that will support members throughout their lives.

• Enhance focus on ritual and values-based programming in all aspects of membership and chapter operations.

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

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A NNUAL RE P O RT Volunteer Placement

region volunteers to Indianapolis for position specific training and region team development.

total number of volunteers

total advisory board positions filled

of region volunteer positions filled We will elevate the lives of women and be a forward-thinking organization.

• Develop visionary leaders through strategic leadership development.

• Deliver an effective and dynamic organizational structure that evolves with the needs of our membership.

• Support membership engagement, development and leadership through innovative and relevant technologies.

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Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Fall 2017

Advisor Institute The 2017 Advisor Institute was held as a single, stand-alone event in Indianapolis and had 116 participants.

The Academy In 2016, The Academy replaced District Day as Alpha Sigma Alpha’s annual day-long leadership conference for collegiate members, allowing more members to attend events located in cities more easily accessible for the majority of collegiate chapters. Like District Day, The Academy draws the largest attendance of Alpha Sigma Alpha’s national events.

Total attendance for The Academy 2016-17 of attendees said Advisor Institute met or exceeded expectations.

Region Volunteer Development Weekend Region Volunteer Development Weekend brought all

Increase from attendance at the 2015-16 District Day events.

“Volunteering for Alpha Sigma Alpha has allowed me to continue leadership development and expand my horizons in aspects that I didn’t realize I could use in my workplace as a registered nurse. Events, such as Regional Volunteer Development Weekend, have allowed me to refuel my drive for leadership and personal reflection. Regional Volunteer Development Weekend also offers a great reminder of the impact that alumnae can make nationwide. It revitalizes my love for Alpha Sigma Alpha and for that I will always be grateful.” – Ali Deighton, DS

2016-17 Academy Attendance (by location)

157

192

234

234

209

De nv er

Da lla s

Ri ch m on d Ka ns as Ci ty Cl ev ela nd

Ch ica go

St .L ou is

128

100

191

200

Ha rtf or d Ph ila de lp hia

National Convention & Leadership Conference The national convention & leadership conference continues to see an increase in attendance.

In 2016, there was a 12 percent increase in attendance from the 2014 National Convention & Leadership Conference.

231

300

1998-2016 National Convention Attendance (by location) 491

500

379

313

278

274

200

309

total number of attendees

290

300

269

437

400

286

Fun Facts

128

340

400

Ri ch m on 20 d 02 Na 20 sh 04 vil Bo le nit aS pr ing 20 s 06 20 Bo 08 sto Al n bu qu 20 er qu 10 e Ind ian 20 ap 12 ol Vi is rg ini a 20 Be 14 ac h Sa n An to nio 20 16 O rla nd o

uses of #Imagine2016 on social media

20 00

19 98

PowerPoint slides used

Da lla s

100

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

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A NNUAL RE P O RT Service hours

total hours served

average number of chapters reported

S. June Smith Center Five collegians received spring break service grants to volunteer at the Center in spring 2017.

Undergraduate Interfraternity Institute Ten scholarships were awarded to collegians to attend UIFI in summer 2017.

average hours served per chapter

Charitable giving We will emphasize relationships that benefit our members and create significance in the communities we serve.

• Foster love, loyalty and lifelong giving to the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation.

• Engage in strategic partnerships that provide value to the Sorority.

• Champion a culture of service and giving in our campus, local, NPC, national and global communities.

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Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Fall 2017

total giving hours

Service Immersion Experience The fifth service immersion experience was held in Oahu, HI, May 21-28, 2017.

average number of chapters reported

average giving hours served per chapter

participants and two alumnae team leaders experienced the trip.

“This experience has truly changed the way I view my chapter, myself, my community, the Greek world and the world in general…

I left knowing my purpose and understanding why I was sent and how I fit.” – Kennedy King, IE, UIFI scholarship recipent

"I got to observe therapists and teachers in the preschool, along with an occupational therapist who does in-home visits.

All of it was very eye-opening. It was such an amazing experience seeing the integrated classrooms." – Jordan Stuart, QG, S. June Smith Center service grant recipent

Membership In 2016-17, Alpha Sigma Alpha has seen a 5.9 percent increase in total collegiate membership.

New chapters

total collegiate members

new members (highest number to date)

Collegiate Chapters

I ota Beta Chapter at Texas A&M University-Texarkana I ota Gamma Chapter at Ramapo College, NJ

collegiate chapters

average chapter size

Alumnae Chapters

alumnae chapters

I ota Delta Chapter at Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne amma Chi Chapter at G Bryant University, RI

alumnae associations

alumnae initiates

I ota Epsilon Chapter at Metropolitan State University of Denver

We will provide meaningful opportunities to experience a joyful and engaged membership.

• Explore opportunities to increase our membership and spread our influence abroad.

• Create enthusiasm and inspire organizational pride throughout a member’s life.

• Deliver meaningful personal and professional programming and leadershipenrichment opportunities for members.

• Foster sustainable recruitment of collegiate and alumnae members.

Theta Pi Chapter at Utah Valley University was closed during the 2016-17 year. www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

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A NNUAL RE P O RT BALANCE SHEET

May 31, 2017

May 31, 2016

Assets Cash & cash equivalents

$675,017

$809,730

Accounts and notes receivable

$126,751

$134,696

Prepaid expenses

$41,426

$110,675

Inventories

$10,033

$20,867

$2,437,979

$2,559,501

Cash restricted for chapter operations

$349,749

$209,580

Beneficial interest in trust

$850,000

$850,000

Fixed assets

$1,617,108

$1,670,913

Total assets

$6,108,063

$6,365,962

Investments

Liabilities

Alpha Sigma Alpha has summarized the financial statements shown in this annual report from its audited financial statements for the year ended May 31, 2017.

A copy of the complete audited financial statements is available for inspection by appointment at Alpha Sigma Alpha National Headquarters, 9002 Vincennes Circle, Indianapolis, IN, 46268-3018.

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Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Fall 2017

Accounts payable

$5,903

$3,814

Accrued expenses

$56,534

$45,154

Deferred revenue

$93,317

$244,814

Capital lease obligation

$24,748

$35,145

$1,199,749

$1,059,580

Chapter savings

$921,207

$894,852

Notes payable

$450,715

$473,038

Total liabilities

$2,752,173

$2,756,397

Chapter operations

Funds Undesignated - General fund Legal fund

$3,265,777 $-

$2,959,792 $115,000

Future NPC rotation

$47,000

$37,000

Set aside

$43,113

$497,773

$3,355,890

$3,609,565

$6,108,063

$6,365,962

Total funds

Total liabilities & funds

2017-18 BUDGET

INCOME STATEMENT

May 31, 2017 May 31, 2016

2017-18 Budget

Revenue Revenue, gains and other support Membership revenue Membership dues

$1,389,300

$1,325,989

$1,268,259

Publications fees & subscriptions

$107,243

$104,430

Interest on accounts & notes receivable

Property & liability insurance fees

$221,900

$233,067

Interest on checking & other investments

$96,300

$66,750

$52,892

Publication fees

$27,900

$4,626

$4,626

$418,255

$230,631

Interest from notes receivable

$14,855

$6,799

Interest & dividend income, net of fees

$19,068

$68,763

Grant from Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation Rental income Program registration fees

$208,803

$(27,459)

Royalty income

$132,798

$141,790

Jewelry and merchandise sales

$217,501

$201,212

$-

$-

Realized gain (loss) on investments

$(5,996)

$(219,802)

Other revenue

$45,703

$7,010

Total revenue

$2,777,495

$2,072,218

$9,000

Conferences registration & program fees

$240,155

Sales of member paraphernalia

$216,700

Royalties

$138,500

Rental income & Foundation share of expense Foundation grant

$9,826 $60,750

$768,383

$688,253

$$2,420,731

Expenses Chapter development

$619,238

Conferences & convention

$414,727

Publications & communications

$189,542

Risk management

Volunteer services Expenses Education & philanthropy Chapter development

$232,300

Other income

Unrealized gain (loss) on investments

Gain (loss) on sale of assets

Insurance revenue

Administrative & general

$155,121 $283,862 $419,041 $1,274,633

Conferences & conventions

$789,906

$438,885

Publications & communications

$152,309

$231,588

Risk management

$141,875

$151,965

Volunteer services

$322,051

$219,619

Education/philanthropic

$353,304

$194,835

EXPENSE PIE CHART

Total program expenses

$2,527,828

$1,925,145

Administrative & general

$503,342

$541,819

Administrative & general 38%

$3,031,170

$2,466,964

Total expenses

*Expense budget is $2,406,220 after deducting depreciation and set aside expenses

Change in net assets Total funds Total liabilities & funds

$(253,675)

$(394,746)

$3,355,890

$3,609,565

$6,108,063

$6,365,962

$3,356,164

Chapter Development 18% Conferences & Convention 12% Publications & Communications 6% Risk Management 5% Volunteer Services 8% Education & Philanthropy 13%

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

29

NPC ANNUAL M E E T IN G

NPC ANNUAL MEETING

BY LORETTA GOOD, SIGMA KAPPA, NPC DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATION & MARKETING

Values. Bold. Empowerment. Strong. Leading.

All assembled at the 2017 National Panhellenic Conference annual meeting, held at the Westin Denver International Airport, Oct. 2628, were able to spend time reflecting on these key themes together.

The annual meeting kicked off Thursday evening with a dinner and social hour to welcome attendees to Colorado.

The dinner was followed by the opening business meeting, led by Chairman Donna King.

Highlights included NPC Executive Director Dani Weatherford unveiling NPC’s refreshed brand, beginning with a video showcasing the new brand elements and website.

“We intentionally wanted to pay homage to the past by incorporating the well-known NPC green and our historic laurel leaves while also boosting the energy,” said Weatherford. “The many associated

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Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Fall 2017

patterns are lively and provide many opportunities to present the bold, impactful and purpose-driven work of NPC. “We’ve incorporated the new brand not only in the new website, but also in our 2016-17 NPC annual report, the annual meeting program and all of the other materials you will see this weekend.”

During the presentation, Weatherford thanked NPC partners Willow Marketing for brand design and OmegaFi for website development.

King gave a state of NPC address, covering NPC’s three strategic priorities: growth and sustainability, communication and marketing, and Panhellenic excellence.

“Coming together at the annual meeting affords us an opportunity to refresh, renew and re-energize for the year ahead,” said King. “The accomplishments and milestones we celebrate this evening and build upon going forward are only achievable through working together, collectively and collaboratively.”

Gamma Lambda Chapter, Loyola University of Chicago | Jacqueline Nichols, Jessica Heabler, Courtney Bickle, Melissa Goldberg and Jodi Murphy show support for a Special Olympics’ Spread the Word to End the Word campaign.

Alpha Sigma Alpha in attendance at the NPC Annual Meeting from left to right: Executive Director Krystal Geyer Slivinski, ΓR, Third Alternate Delegate Caelee Gibbs Lehman, EE, Second Alternate Delegate Suzanne Kilgannon, BI, National President Melissa Koch Merriam, EE, Delegate Lynne Rachal Chamber, A, First Alternate Delegate Sue Zorichak, BB.

After the business meeting, all attendees received new NPC notecards and the NPC store re-opened with newly branded merchandise. Firsttime attendees adjourned to a reception hosted by King in the aptly titled Renewal suite.

Attendees began their Friday with committee and group meetings as well as new area advisor and Panhellenics training. Afternoon sessions included Panhellenics training and regional meetings, as well as a joint meeting of the board of directors, inter/national presidents and executive directors and separate meetings of communicators and the Foundation. Similar sessions were held on Saturday morning.

Friday’s agenda also included a new event, the Party With Our Partners luncheon. During the party, attendees visited with representatives from NPC’s partners to learn about what their businesses offer NPC member organizations. Those who completed their party game card had the opportunity to win prizes.

The Friday business meeting included a discussion of proposed legislation. It also included a memorial service for 11 women who served NPC and passed away during the 2015-17 biennium. This included a special tribute to Amy Hayner Kates, who served on Kappa Alpha Theta’s NPC delegation for 13 years and passed away in July while serving on the NPC Board of Directors.

During the Foundations of Higher Education dinner, everyone received the NPC Foundation biennial report. Dr. Kristin Walker, Alpha Sigma Tau, was presented with the Women in Higher Education Achievement Award.

After the evening meeting sessions, attendees were treated to a happy hour, sponsored by Billhighway, an NPC partner. Former committee chairmen shared time together in the Renewal suite.

Saturday was a whirlwind of activity for attendees, beginning with the traditional Town Hall. Colleen Falkenstern, research coordinator, Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education, kicked off the Town Hall with a presentation on high school graduate trends. Suzanne Kilgannon, Alpha Sigma Alpha and chairman of NPC Measurable Outcomes Committee, and Darcy Russell, Ph.D., Zeta Tau Alpha and member of the NPC Release Figure Methodology Leadership Team, provided insight on the implications for NPC and answered questions from the crowd. Rob Buelow, vice president, higher education partner

education, EverFi, then presented highlights from a new whitepaper from EverFi. He asked attendees to discuss the implications of several topics affecting the fraternity/ sorority community.

At the Celebrating Panhellenic Excellence luncheon, 20 campuses were recognized as College Panhellenic Excellence Award winners.

Atlanta Alumnae Panhellenic Association received the Harriet Macht Outstanding Alumnae Panhellenic Award. The Outstanding Panhellenic Advisor Award was presented to Jennifer Pierce, University of Tennessee – Knoxville, and the Interfraternal Partner Award was presented to Ginny Carroll, inGINuity.

King closed the official business of the meeting by installing the 201719 Executive Committee: Chairman Carole Jones, Alpha Omicron Pi; Vice Chairman Malaea Seleski, Zeta Tau Alpha; Advocacy Chairman Donna Chereck, Alpha Chi Omega; Finance Chairman Sandy Burba, Gamma Phi Beta; and Panhellenics Chairman Frances Mitchelson, Phi Mu. That evening attendees enjoyed the Celebrating Panhellenic History and Traditions banquet. King delighted the crowd with the Women of Courage and Conviction video, gifted to NPC from Sigma Kappa in honor of King’s service as NPC chairman. King also presented Elizabeth “Betty” Ahlemeyer Quick, Gamma Phi Beta, with the NPC Distinguished Service Award.

New Chairman Carole Jones then outlined six trends arising from generational changes that will create challenges and opportunities for NPC and the 26 member organizations over the coming years. She reminded those assembled they are all stronger and more powerful together. She highlighted examples of that strength and cohesion over NPC’s 115-year history.

Jones concluded, “I look forward to two years filled with opportunity and promise. I am grateful to serve alongside each of you and look forward to continuing to serve into our bright and promising future together.”

Finally, all adjourned to the Executive Committee reception to welcome the new leaders and enjoy each other’s company one final time before heading home to continue advocating for the sorority experience.

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ASA PA L M S

ASA Palms The word palm means tribute, honor or praise. Alpha Sigma Alpha gives palms to alumnae and collegians for their successes and milestones.

Celebrating a personal, professional or volunteer success? Tell us about it!

Send your success stories to the editor at asa@AlphaSigmaAlpha.org.

Beta Lambda Chapter, University of Central Arkansas Hershila Lallu, BL, was selected as a spring 2018 fellow of the United Nations Foundation Global Health Fellowship. The select group of college students chosen for the fellowship will work alongside UN Foundation staff to learn the insand-outs of advocacy during the seven-week program. The program will challenge students to turn their passion into action and make their voices heard to promote healthy lives for millions of men, women and child. Hershila hopes to become an advocate for Occupational Therapy.

Gamma Mu Chapter, Adrian College, MI Jennifer McNabb, Ph.D., GM, recently filmed a 48-part lecture series for The Great Courses. The Great Courses is a series of collegelevel audio and video courses designed to provide immersive learning experiences. Jen spent more than two years working on the course titled “Renaissance: The Transformation of the West.” The course will be available in DVD, CD and for streaming in spring 2018.

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Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Fall 2017

Gamma Xi Chapter, Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania Susan Cavalline Evans, GX, was recognized on the floor of the Pennsylvania Senate for her ovarian cancer awareness campaign through her approved proposal to designate September 2017 as “Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.”

In addition, the mayor of Pittsburgh declared in an official proclamation that Sept. 12, 2017, be designated as “Susan Evans Day” throughout Pittsburgh.

Susan is the author of the book, Don’t Write The Obituary Yet, in which she chronicles her journey with ovarian cancer and offers frank, unabashed advice for those challenged with this “silent killer” among cancers. Susan has spoken to more than a hundred civic groups during the past three years telling her story and seeking donations for the Evans-Krivak Gynecological Cancer Research and Education Fund under The Pittsburgh Foundation.

Nu Nu Chapter, Drexel University, PA Blanche Zelmanovich, NN, has been selected by the American Bankruptcy Institute as a 40 Under 40 nominee, for their inaugural class. Blanche has led various engagements, including serving as financial advisor to the debtor and unsecured creditors’ committee through a dual retention.

She specializes in out-of-court and in-court restructurings, financial budgeting and planning, liquidity management and litigation support.

Blanche is a Certified Insolvency and Restructuring Advisor (CIRA) and the first recipient of the International Women’s Insolvency & Restructuring Confederation (IWIRC).

Beta Lambda Chapter, University of Central Arkansas Keegan Nichols, BL, has been named the new vice president for student services at Arkansas Tech University in Russellville, AR. She is responsible for a staff of around 100 people, overseeing programs including campus life, diversity and inclusion, public safety, residence life, student conduct, student wellness and veteran services.

“The biggest thing I have done is a listening tour for 90 days,” Keegan said. “I learned that the student-services team is incredible and that they really wanted an advocate — just somebody to help celebrate the great things they are already doing.”

She used the listening tour to help create the strategic plan for the Division of Student Services.

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ASA FOU N D AT IO N N E W S

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Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Fall 2017

archives

from the

Members of the newly reinstated Alpha Chapter, Longwood College, Farmville, VA, gather with founder Louise Cox Carper (center) in 1933. Alpha Chapter had lost its recognition from the Sorority in 1919.

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35

9002 Vincennes Circle | Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018

WOMAN OF

Poise and Purpose “My favorite line in the Creed of Alpha Sigma Alpha is ‘to love life and joyously live each day to its ultimate good.’ I began my journey with Austin Pets Alive! (APA!) because my previous career path was leading down an unhappy road; one that did not fulfill my deep need to feel connected to those I was serving and to truly make a difference. APA! has provided what I crave: connection and meaning.

APA! is a non-profit organization that has saved more than 50,000 dogs and cats by offering a safety net for those most at risk for euthanasia.

When the Houston-area saw its most horrific hurricane to date, APA! took immediate action by pulling animals from shelters directly in the path of the storm, and then later taking a small team to Houston to create a rescue/triage center.

The storm created several months of exhausting work, but our staff and volunteers made sure that we were doing everything possible to save those that had nowhere else to turn.

I’ve been blessed to grow with APA! and I continue to fall in love with this career and this organization. Every day, we provide the ultimate good for the animals that need us the most, and I find my joy in watching these animals joyously continue to live.”

Hannah Clark Horstman, QE Events and outreach manager Austin Pets Alive!