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ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA | 2015-2016

ANNUAL REPORT #Imagine2016 highlights p. 28 Meet the 2016-17 consultants p. 8

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2016 Service Immersion Experience This past summer, collegiate members from 13 different chapters participated in the 2016 service immersion experience in Oahu, HI. While immersed in service activities such as removing invasive plant species, sorting tilapia at a sustainable fish farm and restoring an overgrown area around a natural, spring-fed water source, these women learned about self-confidence, self-control and self-sacrifice.

FA L L 2 0 1 6 C O NT ENTS

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FEATURES Cover story, page 18:

2015-16 Annual Report 7 Expansion update 8 #Imagine2016 highlights 12 Sorority award winners 2015-16 28 Meet the 2016-17 consultants

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

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30 Chapter news 34 Foundation 37 ASA Palms 38 In Memoriam 39 From the archives 40 Woman of poise and purpose

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E DI T O R ’ S D E S K Volume 102, Number 4

Dear readers,

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

It has always been a little too easy for me to get caught up in the day-to-day and forget to step back and see the bigger picture. Sometimes I feel like I’m on a treadmill – running and running and never really getting anywhere.

Compiling this issue, specifically the annual report, forced me to look at the big picture of all of the excellent work Alpha Sigma Alpha is doing. It was humbling to step back and see just how many women are impacted in a positive way by the work of the Sorority.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes (Form 3579) to

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 Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018

My favorite statistic comes from the spring 2016 EBI assessment that all collegiate members were invited to participate in: 97 percent of participants agree they have developed as a women of poise and purpose because of Alpha Sigma Alpha. This is static alone is a great reminder of what the Sorority is doing for its members and why Alpha Sigma Alpha is important. I hope you have a similar experience of awe and pride while reading the 2015-16 Annual Report.

Also in this issue, we will recap #Imagine2016 and individual and chapter award winners for 2015-16, and you will get to meet our 2016-17 consultant team. It is my hope that this issue serves as a reminder of not only the excellence happening in Alpha Sigma Alpha every day but also as a reminder to step back and look at all of the excellence happening in your life.

Phone: (317) 871-2920 Fax: (317) 871-2924

Mizpah,

Email: asa@AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

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

Kelsey Turner Director of Communications & Marketing

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

S HA R E Y O U R T HO U G HT S We always welcome your comments – both

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criticism and praise – about this publication.

Email asa@AlphaSigmaAlpha.org or send mail to:

years

Editor, Alpha Sigma Alpha Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018

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Special dedicated to

9002 Vincennes Circle

page 10

Olympics p. 8

SummerPhoenixFINAL.indd 1

Iota Alpha Chapter installed p. 15 The Academy 2016-17

6/30/16 2:33 PM

F R O M T HE P R E S I DENT

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

As I sit down to write this message, I find myself reflecting on the last two years of Alpha Sigma Alpha. It’s a natural time to think about this as we just held our national convention & leadership conference in Orlando, FL, where we celebrated our successes and accomplishments as an organization.

During the first business meeting at national convention, I shared with our members the state of our Sorority. It is my opportunity as national president on behalf of our national council to share the current health of our organization. For those of you who missed it, I will share with you that Alpha Sigma Alpha is in a great place. This is an awesome time in our history to be a member of our Sorority!

Some of the highlights from my message were sharing record breaking membership statistics, 2015-18 strategic plan, new region structure, service opportunities for our members, a new membership education program, big sister certification, women’s advancement series for alumnae and so much more. It was celebrating Alpha Sigma Alpha and all that we individually and collectively have accomplished. In this issue of the magazine, you can read more about this past year in our annual report.

Preparing the state of the Sorority led me to thinking: Is Alpha Sigma Alpha still relevant to our members in 2016? Does Alpha Sigma Alpha really make an impact on our sisters?

More importantly, is there still a need for Alpha Sigma Alpha?

I recently heard this theory that human beings are motivated to join groups because of our fundamental “need to belong.” The “belongingness hypothesis” proposed by Baumeister and Leary in 1995 states that people have a basic psychological need to feel closely connected to others, and that caring affectionate bonds from close relationships are a major part of human behavior.

The need to belong and the close relationships of our Founders is why Alpha Sigma Alpha was formed on Nov. 15, 1901.

sororities on their campus. However, if they accepted those invitations, it would mean that these five women would not be sorority sisters.

They not only recognized a need to belong but a need to belong together. The relationships they shared with each other led to them making history by starting the fourth sorority at the State Female Normal School in Farmville, VA. That fourth sorority, Alpha Sigma Alpha, has given us all an opportunity to belong and develop strong bonds of friendship.

We continue what Virginia, Juliette, Calva, Louise and Mary started by loving and supporting one another.

In our world today, the close association of women who share the same values and lift each other despite of their differences is not only relevant but needed more than ever.

I can sum up my message in the state of our Sorority and the annual report with a quote that was shared with Alpha Sigma Alpha members 100 years ago in the Phoenix magazine by Ida Shaw Martin and one that I am sure you will recognize, “You are a member of a strong sorority, one that ranks with the best in the country. Live it; talk it; dream it; work for it. In no other way can you so effectively convince others of its beauty, its greatness or its power.”

This Founders’ Day, let’s celebrate our membership and the legacy of Alpha Sigma Alpha! Be proud of your membership in our sorority because you are member of a strong sorority. I challenge you to “Live it; talk it; dream it; work for it.” Happy 115 years, Alpha Sigma Alpha!

ASA Love and Mine,

Melissa Koch Merriam, EE National President @melissaamerriam

Our five Founders sought an opportunity to join a sorority. They were each extended invitations to join one of the three existing

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

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NEWS & EV E N T S

Hermes Society inductees Congratulations to the 27 collegiate and alumnae members who were inducted into the Alpha Sigma Alpha Hermes Society in 2015-16.

FALL 2015

Randi Beggs, Theta Omicron Samareh Dadashazar, Theta Epsilon Cali DiOrio-Saye, Theta Rho Kate Dorian, Epsilon Epsilon Amanda Kiewit, Zeta Tau Brooke Ravenscraft, Phi Phi SPRING 2016

Virginia Cervantes, Theta Kappa Amanda Chen, Theta Nu Carly Creekmore, Zeta Mu Anna Czekaj, Delta Nu-A Alanna DiGioia, Nu Nu Danielle Fox, Theta Zeta Jennifer Gray, Eta Eta Sarah Hanson, Zeta Chi Shideh Javan, Theta Tau Becca Kuhn, Nu Nu Madison Leavitt,Theta Pi Ali MacDonald, Theta Mu Ashley Martinez, Epsilon Phi Leah Nyirashishi, Zeta Kappa Sarah Quist, Zeta Tau Katelin Schumacher, Zeta Omicron Amanda Shooster, Nu Nu Morgan Swere, Beta Lambda Selena Wilson, Zeta Omega Danielle Wurth, Delta Sigma Lauren Zuidema, Beta Rho

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ADVISOR INSTITUTE SAVE THE DATE | APRIL 7-9, 2017 | INDIANAPOLIS, IN Sponsorships are available for two advisors per chapter. Registration opens January 2017.

For more information, please visit www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org/AdvisorInstitute.

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP

E X PA N S I O N U P D AT E

COLONY TO BE ESTABLISHED IN INDIANA Alpha Sigma Alpha established a colony at Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne in the fall 2016 semester.

Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne is a public, comprehensive university that serves as a crossroads of intellectual, social, economic and cultural advancement.

The colony will become the fifth active collegiate chapter to be established in Indiana. Alpha Sigma Alpha will be the first sorority and NPC organization on campus, joining Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia fraternity.

Alpha Sigma Alpha partnered with the IPFW Mastadons throughout the pre-colonization phase, which included recruiting and training alumnae from northeast Indiana as colony advisors, marketing at several on-campus events and establishing relationships with students and staff at the institution. The next phase for the new colony began in September 2016, when leadership consultants hosted informational sessions and ended with a bid day celebration.

Alpha Sigma Alpha looks forward to initiating and installing the next chapter of the Sorority in Fort Wayne, IN!

CLOSEST COLLEGIATE AND ALUMNAE CHAPTERS

QUICK FACTS

ASAatIPFW

Theta Zeta Chapter, IUPUI, IN

Fort Wayne, IN

ASA_IPFW

Gamma Mu Chapter, Adrian College, MI

Public, commuter institution

ASA_IPFW

Zeta Tau Chapter, Grand Valley State University, MI

Founded in 1964

Epsilon Phi Chapter, Indiana University

Enrollment: 9,800

Lafayette Alumnae Chapter, IN

Student/faculty ratio; 18:1

Indianapolis Alumnae Chapter Indianapolis Young Alumnae Association Central Ohio Alumnae Chapter

INTERESTED IN GETTING INVOLVED WITH THE COLONY? CONTACT US AT EXTENSION@ALPHASIGMAALPHA.ORG OR (317) 871-2920.

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

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#IMAGI NE 2 0 1 6

On July 6-9, 2016, 500 members of Alpha Sigma Alpha gathered in Orlando, FL, for the 49th Alpha Sigma Alpha National Convention & Leadership Conference, setting the record for the highest national convention attendance in our organization’s history.

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2016

CLOSE SHAVE QUARTET The Close Shave Quartet brought some Orlando culture to the opening welcome by singing to attendees.

ALPHA TALKS Eight women took the stage individually for Alpha Talks, a program where members and friends of Alpha Sigma Alpha provide their insight on thoughts and ideas related to specific topics.

FOUNDATION UPDATE Members popped balloons to reveal the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation’s fundraising update.

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

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#IMAGI NE 2 0 1 6

GLENNON MELTON National President Melissa Merriam joined New York Times bestselling author Glennon Doyle Melton on the stage as Glennon addressed self-confidence and acceptance in her keynote speech.

INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS The 2016-18 national council participated in the Service for the Installation of Officers at the Imagine Alpha Sigma Alpha Banquet.

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#imagine2016

SERVICE AND GIVING LUNCHEON Special Olympics International athlete Mariann Gonzalez spoke at the Service and Giving luncheon where Alpha Sigma Alpha celebrated the 40-year anniversary of our partnership with Special Olympics.

FOUNDATION FUNDRAISING TOTAL Through fundraising efforts, the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation raised a total of $109,062.42 at the 2016 national convention & leadership conference.

50-YEAR MEMBERS 24 women were recognized for 50 years of membership in Alpha Sigma Alpha.

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

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2015- 16 AWARD S

Collegiate, Chapter & Individual Awards

Crown of Excellence winner – Nu Nu Chapter

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.

Nu Nu, Drexel University, PA

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Scholastic Achievement Award – Spring 2015 Zeta Eta, Rockhurst University, MO

Sidney Gremillion Allen Panhellenic Award Delta Nu-B, Kettering University, MI

Scholastic Achievement Award – Fall 2015 Zeta Eta, Rockhurst University, MO

Service and Giving Award Theta Omicron, University of MissouriKansas City

Rose Marie Fellin Financial Excellence Award Theta Alpha, Coe College, IA Recruitment Excellence Award Beta Sigma, Missouri State University Theta Zeta, Indiana University Purdue University-Indianapolis

Communications Excellence Award Theta Zeta, Indiana University Purdue University-Indianapolis

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.

Eta Eta, Pittsburg State University, KS Nu Nu, Drexel University, PA Phi Phi, Northwest Missouri State University Beta Theta, Central Michigan University Beta Nu, Murray State University, KY Beta Sigma, Missouri State University Delta Sigma, Saginaw Valley State University, MI Zeta Phi, Illinois Institute of Technology Theta Alpha, Coe College, IA Theta Gamma, Christopher Newport University, VA Theta Zeta, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis Theta Tau, Capital University, OH

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.

Gamma Gamma, Northwestern Oklahoma State University Beta Upsilon, Indiana State University Epsilon Phi, Indiana University Zeta Omega, Austin Peay State University, TN Theta Upsilon, Boise State University, ID

2015-16 ALUMNAE CHAPTER AWARDS Awards for outstanding membership growth, panhellenic engagement, service and giving, collegiate chapter relations and programming were presented to five 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, established by national council in 2007. The Crown of Excellence is presented to an alumnae chapter that demonstrates the lifetime dedication to the Sorority through chapter management and programming.

CROWN OF EXCELLENCE Indianapolis OUTSTANDING MEMBERSHIP GROWTH AWARD San Antonio OUTSTANDING ALUMNAE PANHELLENIC ENGAGEMENT AWARD Windy City, IL OUTSTANDING SERVICE & GIVING Greater Kansas City

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

OUTSTANDING COLLEGIATE CHAPTER SUPPORT Southeastern North Carolina

Delta Kappa, University of Southern Indiana Epsilon Gamma, Virginia Commonwealth University Zeta Mu, Missouri Western State University Theta Omicron, University of Missouri-Kansas City

OUTSTANDING PROGRAMS NOVA Virginia

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.

Gamma Iota, Rochester Institute of Technology, NY Delta Gamma, West Chester University, PA Delta Nu-B, Kettering University, MI Delta Upsilon, University of Texas, San Antonio Zeta Eta, Rockhurst University, MO Zeta Nu, Moravian College, PA

COMMUNICATIONS EXCELLENCE Boston PALM RECOGNITION Florida Alabama Mississippi Gulf Coast Oklahoma City Southern Colorado STAR RECOGNITION Amarillo, TX Chicago West Houston Philadelphia Metro

CROWN RECOGNITION Boston Buffalo, NY Central Florida Central Ohio Central Pennsylvania Charlotte, NC Chicago Metro Cincinnati Dallas Denver Greater Jacksonville, FL Greater Kansas City Greater Rochester, NY Greater Valley Forge, PA Hattiesburg, MS Indianapolis Midnight Sun Alaska Milwaukee North Suburban Chicago North Star Minnesota Northern Colorado Northern Virginia Pittsburg, KS Richmond, VA San Antonio Southeastern North Carolina Southwestern Indiana Springfield, MO St. Louis Tampa Bay, FL Tidewater Virginia Tulsa, OK Washington, DC Western Pennsylvania Windy City, IL

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OUTSTANDING NEW MEMBER AWARD

FROST FIDELITY 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.

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 of Pi Pi Chapter and her husband, Donald.

GRETCHEN REED, HH, PITTSBURG STATE UNIVERSITY, KS

ERIN KISSICK, DELTA NU-B, KETTERING UNIVERSITY, MI

• Sophomore, majoring in marketing, management and English • Serves as her chapter’s treasurer • Member of the Pitt Pals, Enactus, Pittsburg State University Honors College and a reporter for the Collegio student newspaper • Volunteers for the humane society, Olathe Food Pantry and Ronald McDonald House

• Senior majoring in chemical engineering • Served as her chapter’s standards chairman and vice president of membership education • Member of the CHME Club, Ethics Clib, Dance Club and Rho Lambda Honors Society • Volunteers for Habitat for Humanity, Carriage House and the Midland Community Theater • Serves as an usher at her church and is an avid runner and cross country skier

“Gretchen is taking 19 credit hours, has three majors, has a job and is involved in five organizations on campus. She is able to balance all these demanding responsibilities…and still manages to live a happy, healthy and rested life. She is the epitome of a balanced and well-rounded woman.”

“Erin was nominated for the Frost Fidelity Award because she personifies loyalty in ASA. She sets the perfect example for living out our creed. Erin has a great perspective on life that’s been very valuable to our chapter.”

OUTSTANDING ATHLETE AWARD

ELIZABETH BIRD SMALL AWARD

In 2011, the Outstanding Athlete Award was established to recognize an undergraduate member who exemplifies the physical aim by representing her college or 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.

The Elizabeth Bird Small Award is given annually in memory of Elizabeth Bird Small, Pi Pi member and former chapter advisor. It is regarded as the highest honor that our 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.

EMMA SCHELBLE, ZH, ROCKHURST UNIVERSITY, MO

• Member of the Rockhurst University Women’s Tennis team, playing number one singles and number one doubles • Named to the All Great Lakes Valley Conference Team three years running • Won the Arthur Ashe Leadership and Sportsmanship Award for the NCAA Division II Midwest Region • Served her chapter as secretary • Serves as an orientation leader and orientation coordinator • Participated in Christian Life Communities, IMPACT and a service immersion trip “Emma’s collegiate years have been joyously balanced with hard work and play. Despite traveling frequently with the team…Emma has managed to come to all Alpha Sigma Alpha events and provide her full support… She is one of the best examples of how you can pour your heart and passions into so many different activities.”

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BROOKE RAVENSCRAFT, ΦΦ, NORTHWEST MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY

• Senior majoring in elementary education and early childhood education • Served as her chapter’s service & giving chairman, vice president of programming & ritual and chapter president • Served as a student ambassador, university seminar peer advisor and Exemplary Leadership Academy participant • Participates in KIDS Club and Gamma Alpha Lambda • Member of the Order of Omega, Cardinal Key Honor Society and Northwest Missouri State University Honors Program • Serves as a Sunday school teacher and Kids Korner volunteer, as well as at Special Olympics events and the Girls on the Run Kansas City 5K “Brooke has that kind of charisma that is very infectious.

Brooke has confidence in herself and also in every single one of our members; this radiates from her to all of us.”

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 our ritual and perpetuating Alpha Sigma Alpha’s core values. Chapters and volunteers may nominate any advisor of a chapter.

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.

MARTY MCLAIN, AA, CHAPTER ADVISOR FOR THETA TAU CHAPTER, CAPITAL UNIVERSITY, OH

LAURA BATES, DIRECTOR OF THE STUDENT UNION AND CAMPUS ACTIVITIES, TRUMAN STATE UNIVERSITY, MO

Marty began her service to Alpha Sigma Alpha in 2010 as philanthropy advisor for Zeta Omicron Chapter at Muskingum University in Ohio and, when the Theta Tau Chapter was colonized in 2011, she began her role as standards advisor. She served both advisory boards until 2013, when she became chapter advisor for Theta Tau.

Laura Bates moved 1,000 miles from North Carolina to Missouri to start her professional journey at Truman State University, MO, home to our Alpha Beta Chapter. Ten academic years later she continues to serve the students as the director of the student union and campus activities. In this role, she has had the fortunate experience to guide and support a vibrant Greek community for nearly five years. Laura is responsible for providing guidance to three primary councils, administratively supporting chapter leaders and advisors for more than 20 chapters, developing progressive programming and advocating for fraternity and sorority life to campus administrators and community leaders.

Marty has truly made an impact on Alpha Sigma Alpha. Here is what the Theta Tau Chapter president had to say about her: “Marty is a prime example of everything you want in an advisor. She respects boundaries, offers support where needed and is a true woman of poise and purpose who lives her values each and every day.”

The chapter goes on to say, “To the chapter, Marty is an exceptional advisor, leader and mentor. She takes the functions and operations of the chapter personally and always strives to be the best while also encouraging our members to do the same."

“Our chapter advisor deserves the Outstanding Advisor Award because she is calm in her demeanor, organized and skillful in her work and reaches out to those who make need a little extra push of encouragement. We truly appreciate all the work Marty has done for us.”

Marty is a member of the Central Ohio Alumnae Chapter where she serves as chapter secretary.

Laura received her bachelor of science in business administration with a concentration in marketing from Meredith College, and she completed her master of arts in college student development at Appalachian State University. While she is not affiliated with an NPC sorority, Laura has worked with fraternity/sorority students since 2004 through her various roles whether it be program support, awards selection committees or a shoulder to cry on.

When not working with students, Laura enjoys spending time with her two dogs, Sophie and Laney, traveling regionally, sending postcards in the mail and collecting antiques. She also makes the 1,000-mile trek to visit home at least every other year.

Alpha Beta Chapter nominated Laura and had this to say:

HONORABLE MENTIONS Jennifer Cummins Gray, HH, Zeta Alpha Chapter Advisor Jennifer Vincent, ΔΗ, Gamma Lambda Chapter Advisor

“Laura truly cares about the students on campus and her actions show her commitment to her position. Laura is extremely knowledgeable and driven, but you can also tell she loves her job. Her assistance has helped so many chapters grow in so many ways, many times unnoticed. Her experience and passion for Truman’s fraternity/sorority community makes her fully deserving of this year’s award.”

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

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WILMA WILSON SHARP AWARD This award is presented in honor of Wilma Wilson Sharp, ZZ, president emerita, and recognizes an alumna member who has distinguished herself through service to her community, her profession and has shown significant leadership qualities, loyalty and continued service to Alpha Sigma Alpha.

CINDY KELLEY, ΒΠ, CONCORD UNIVERSITY, WV Cindy joined the Beta Pi Chapter at Concord University in Athens, WV, and served her chapter as president, membership director and homecoming, intramurals and sisterhood chairman. She was honored by her collegiate chapter with the Outstanding New Member Award, the Elizabeth Bird Small Award and the Aspire, Seek, Attain Award.

After college, Cindy traveled for Alpha Sigma Alpha as a leadership consultant during the 1993-94 academic year. She then served as province director for four years, chairman of colonies for four years and 12 years as a member of national council. During her tenure on national council, Cindy served as the vice president of collegians, the vice president of membership, the vice president of operations and then finally as national president from 2008-12.

While serving as our national president, Cindy also served the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation as an ex-officio trustee and represented our sorority as part of the National Panhellenic Conference delegation.

After her completion of her national council service, Cindy continued to show her commitment to our Sorority as the second alternate delegate to the National Panhellenic Conference, as well as the chairman of the Board & Leadership Advancement Committee. This past year, Cindy stepped up once again when called upon to serve as the nominating committee chairman.

In addition to serving our Sorority for over 25 years on the national level, Cindy served as a charter member of both the North Carolina Triangle Area Alumnae Chapter and the Triangle Area Alumnae Panhellenic Association.

Not only is Cindy passionate about developing women of poise and purpose through our Sorority, she also works with young women in her professional career at Girl Scouts USA. Through her position as the chief operating officer of the North Carolina Coastal Pines Council, Cindy works to build girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place.

Cindy’s legacy of continued service and loyalty to her sorority and her community distinguish her as a deserving recipient of the Wilma Wilson Sharp Award.

EVELYN G. BELL AWARD The Evelyn G. Bell Award was instituted by the Buffalo Alumnae Chapter in 1980 in honor of Evelyn G. Bell, past national president. This award is given to an alumna member who exhibits exceptional leadership, loyalty and commitment to Alpha Sigma Alpha by serving as a collegiate officer, alumnae officer and national officer.

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JOHANNA HAAG GARDNER, ZZ, UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL MISSOURI During her 43 years as a member of Alpha Sigma Alpha, Johanna has exhibited loyalty and commitment through a variety of leadership opportunities.

Johanna started her leadership journey when she joined Zeta Zeta Chapter at the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg, in 1973. She served her collegiate chapter as assistant treasurer, treasurer, vice president and social chairman.

Johanna values teaching young women financial responsibility, while also ensuring our sorority’s future is financially stable. She served for eight years as the financial advisor for the Zeta Eta Chapter at Rockhurst University, while at the same time serving as treasurer of the Greater Kansas City Alumnae Chapter.

In 2007 Johanna began her six-year tenure as a trustee for the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation. She served as secretary and vice chairman, as well as on several committees and task forces. Johanna’s time as a trustee is best remembered for her generosity. Whether hosting Foundation meetings at her home, adding personal touches to Foundation displays at District Day, or delivering thoughtful homemade gifts, Johanna was always looking for creative ways to further the mission of the Foundation and encourage fellow volunteers to give full measure.

2014 saw the start of a new volunteer journey for Johanna when she was named the president of the Greater Kansas City Alumnae Panhellenic Association.

Johanna’s legacy can be found not only in her years of service to the Sorority and the Foundation, but also in her contagious laughter, creativity and thoughtfulness.

HELEN COREY AWARD The Helen Corey award was first established at the 1982 National Convention in Chicago in recognition of the dedicated years of service to Alpha Sigma Alpha and for Helen’s contributions to the history of successful conventions. This award is presented to an individual member in recognition for her unwavering and tireless efforts to getting the job done and the contributions into the planning preparation and execution of our National Convention. In 2008, national council voted to honor Helen L. Corey’s dedication to Alpha Sigma Alpha by amending the description of this award to a member in recognition of their unwavering and tireless efforts in service of the sorority.

MARCIA PUCCI JACQUETTE, DN-A, KETTERING UNIVERSITY, MI Marcia joined the Delta Nu-A Chapter at Kettering University in Flint, MI, where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering.

Marcia has exemplified unwavering and tireless efforts to our Sorority through her volunteer work as an alumnae member. She has served the Greater Valley Forge Alumnae Chapter in various roles over the past 14 years, including editor, secretary, vice president and, most recently, president.

Throughout her many leadership terms, alumnae chapter sisters in West Chester, PA, have counted on Marcia’s infectious enthusiasm to help them see the humor in life’s challenges.

Marcia has not been content just serving her local alumnae chapter. Her constant quest to challenge herself led her to the District 2 team in 2005 where she served as webmaster, followed by four years as the District 2 facilitator.

From 2012-14, Marcia served Alpha Sigma Alpha as the national vice president of communications. At the 2014 National Convention & Leadership Conference, Marcia developed and delivered the first national communications report.

Following her national council term, our Sorority called on Marcia to serve as chapter advisor, but with a twist. The Delta Gamma Chapter was in the beginning stages of re-colonizing at West Chester University, so Marcia was not just advising a chapter, she was advising a group of women who were starting a chapter from scratch. With the current member list at 101 members, it is safe to say that Marcia continues to expand her Alpha Sigma Alpha legacy.

AGAPE AWARDS The Agape Award recognizes volunteers who display a love for Alpha Sigma Alpha and its members.

Recipients seek at all times to advance the interests of others and to spread the positive influence of Alpha Sigma Alpha. Recipients of the Agape Award demonstrate a focus on the greater good of Alpha Sigma Alpha giving full measure toward the success of others.

SUE ZARNOWSKI, ΘΣ, SOUTHERN CONNECTICUT STATE UNIVERSITY Sue began her volunteer experience with Alpha Sigma Alpha after joining as an alumna initiate in 2012. Shortly after being initiated, she took on the role of the social responsibility advisor for Zeta Nu Chapter at Moravian College, PA. She remained an advisor until a career move took her to Rhode Island, but Sue still found ways to remain involved.

In 2013, she became the social responsibility leader for District 2 and was instrumental in creating an environment where women could ask questions about how to be healthy and safe while still having fun and learn the importance of service and giving.

In 2015, Sue became the district’s recruitment leader where she has assisted chapters in developing and implementing effective recruitment strategies as well as encouraging chapters to create and meet their goals.

As a chapter education coordinator for Theta Mu Chapter at Valdosta State University, she has dedicated her time to assisting the chapter to find their strength and develop into women of poise and purpose who uphold the values of Alpha Sigma Alpha.

She also served Alpha Sigma Alpha in various other capacities, including presenting workshops for collegiate chapters, writing blogs, participating in chapter investigations, mentoring young officers and facilitating at LDI and District Day, to name just a few.

Sue belongs to the Boston Alumnae Chapter, where she has previously served as the secretary and vice president.

ERIKA BUTTS, ΕΚ, MILLERSVILLE UNIVERSITY, PA Erika joined the Epsilon Kappa Chapter at Millersville University, PA. After graduation she traveled the country as a leadership consultant, helping chapters grow and develop. Following her years as a leadership consultant, she worked at national headquarters as the volunteer support services coordinator and then the communications and marketing coordinator.

Erika served 2013-14 as a member of the nominating committee and has been the District 3 facilitator for four years. In this role she assists collegiate leaders and advisors as they navigate tough decisions and meet deadlines. Erika also acts as a sounding board and resource for district volunteers, many of whom see her as a mentor.

This past year many of us watched in amazement as Erika, despite the challenges of having a broken ankle, continued to work full time, be a graduate student full time and support 12 collegiate and six alumnae chapters and associations in District 3. Somehow she balanced it all, kept her sense of humor and continues to love life and joyously live each day to its ultimate good.

JILL WHITTENBURG GRIDER, BΓ, NORTHEASTERN STATE UNIVERSITY, OK Jill joined the Beta Gamma Chapter at Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, OK. Following graduation, Jill traveled for the Sorority as a leadership consultant and challenged chapters all over the country to reach their full potential.

As a volunteer, Jill has served in many capacities and watched our Sorority undergo many changes. First as a province director from 1998-02 and later as the District 7 facilitator from 2010 to present, Jill has spent 10 years leading local and regional volunteer teams. Through these two leadership roles, Jill has inspired countless volunteers to follow her lead and support collegiate women and advisors.

In 2007 Jill took on a new opportunity as the colony coordinator for Rogers State University, OK. She helped guide a group of collegiate women from colony to chapter and then served as chapter advisor and later membership advisor.

This past year Jill also served as a valued member of the nominating committee.

PHOENIX BEST FEATURE AWARD The Phoenix Best Feature Award honors an outstanding feature published in the magazine. This year’s recipient is Lara Burkey Heacock for her article “Do You Feel Like a Fraud?”, which appeared in the Winter 2016 edition of the Phoenix.

LARA BURKEY HEACOCK, ZN, MORAVIAN COLLEGE, PA Lara Burkey Heacock, ZN, is a certified life coach who helps her clients live lives that feel good on the inside, not just look good on the outside. She owns and is the chief writer for the online magazine KindOverMatter.com. You can find her on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter as KindOverMatter.

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

17

ANNUAL RE P O RT

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Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Fall 2016

20152016 Annual Report

Cultivation Advancement Significance Engagement Financials www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

19

A NNUAL REP OR T

Cultivation We will cultivate an environment that promotes educated, healthy and 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.

ACADEMICS BY THE NUMBERS Fall 2015 averages CHAPTER GPA: 3.129

HERMES SOCIETY The Alpha Sigma Alpha Hermes Society is an academic honors society created exclusively for member of Alpha Sigma Alpha. In 2015-16, 27 Alpha Sigma Alphas were inducted into the Hermes Society; and since 2012, 171 have been inducted.

HOUSING CORPORATION Alpha Sigma Alpha launched the National Housing Corporation in order to provide better support to chapters with housing, whether the housing is on campus, in a chapter room or chapter house off campus.

First housing corporation board members President Kim Ramsey Meyer, BB Vice President Barb Lombrano Williamson, HH Secretary/Treasurer Rosemary Caricco Goss, BP Kelly McGinnis Morello, EK Melissa Koch Merriam, EE

ALL-PANHELLENIC GPA: 3.124 ALL-UNDERGRADUATE WOMEN'S GPA: 3.051 ALL-CAMPUS GPA: 2.928 Of these reports: 64 CHAPTERS HAD ABOVE 3.0 OVERALL GPA. 5 2 CHAPTERS EXCEEDED OR TIED THE CAMPUS ALL-UNDERGRADUATE WOMEN’S GPA. 4 3 CHAPTERS EXCEEDED OR TIED THE CAMPUS ALL-PANHELLENIC GPA. Spring 2016 averages CHAPTER GPA: 3.137

MEMBERSHIP EDUCATION Based on membership feedback from the EBI assessments in 2014 and 2016 and collegiate/ alumnae member focus groups, Alpha Sigma Alpha developed a membership education program that will allow members to learn and grow throughout all stages of membership.

ALL-PANHELLENIC GPA: 3.113 ALL-UNDERGRADUATE WOMEN'S GPA: 3.07 ALL-CAMPUS GPA: 2.958 Of these reports: 57 CHAPTERS HAD ABOVE 3.0 OVERALL GPA. 4 8 CHAPTERS EXCEEDED OR TIED THE CAMPUS ALL-UNDERGRADUATE WOMEN’S GPA. 4 2 CHAPTERS EXCEEDED OR TIED THE CAMPUS ALL-PANHELLENIC GPA.

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Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Fall 2016

The membership education program features: In-person education prior to initiation.

Chapter programming associated with the Sorority’s core values.

On-line learning components for all collegiate members.

Big sister certification program to be completed prior to serving in a mentorship role for new members.

Senior member curriculum designed to aid in transition to alumnae membership.

Self-guided alumnae learning opportunities.

Ritual reflection resources for collegiate members.

Advancement 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.

VOLUNTEER PLACEMENT In 2015, Alpha Sigma Alpha began a new process to use Strengths Finder to place volunteers in roles that will utilize their strengths.

Alpha Sigma Alpha also launched our volunteer evaluation process.

761 72% 83%

total number of volunteers. total advisory board positions filled. district volunteer positions filled.

ADVISOR INSTITUTE EBI ASSESSMENT In Spring 2016, all Alpha Sigma Alpha collegiate members were invited to participate in an assessment of their Sorority experience.

Through a partnership with EBI MAP-Works, this assessment gathered information that will be used to guide decisions for the future of our organization.

49%

97%

63.3%

of invited collegians completed the assessment.

of participants agree they have developed as women of poise and purpose because of Alpha Sigma Alpha.

of participants shared that they have developed more as a leader from sorority than any other organization.

117 448 92%

advisors participated. t otal advisors participated in the five-year life of the program.

of participants said they will utilize the skills they learned from Advisor Institute with collegians from their chapter.

DISTRICT DAY

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

21

FEATU RE

Advancement (cont.)

DISTRICT DAY ATTENDANCE 375

total attendance

300

NUMBER OF ATTENDEES

1,735

Alpha Sigma Alpha District Day draws the largest attendance of national events.

225 150 75

EMMA COLEMAN FROST LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE (LDI)

D2

D3

D4

D5

D6

D7

D8

D9

DISTRICTS

#IAMASA 2013-14

INDIANAPOLIS, KANSAS CITY AND PITTSBURGH

2014-15

2015-16

407 COLLEGIATE WOMEN 77 VOLUNTEER FACILITATORS

LDI ATTENDANCE

200 150 100

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Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Fall 2016

15 20

15 CI

G KA

N SA

S

UR SB PI TT

TY

H

20 S LI O

AP IA N D IN

20

15

13 TY

CI S N SA

KA

PARTICIPANTS

20

13 H G

PI

TT

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IA N D

20

13 20 LI

S

20 S UI O

ST .L

IN

PI

TT

SB

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20

11

50

11

NUMBER OF ATTENDEES

250

FACILITATORS/STAFF

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

• Foster love, loyalty and life-long 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.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS WORLD GAMES Alpha Sigma Alpha gave five grants to members to volunteer at the Special Olympics World Games in Los Angeles in July 2015.

“SOME OF THE MOST INSPIRING THINGS I SAW WERE HOW EVERYONE COLLABORATED FOR ONE COMMON GOAL: GIVING THESE ATHLETES THE BEST EXPERIENCE THEY COULD POSSIBLY HAVE. NO MATTER WHERE YOU WENT, THERE WERE ALWAYS HIGH-FIVES AND SELFIES BEING TAKEN BETWEEN ATHLETES, FANS AND VOLUNTEERS. THERE WAS AN OVERALL POSITIVE SPIRIT; EVERYONE WAS SO HAPPY TO BE THERE!” – Laura Mersman, Epsilon Epsilon

MOBILESERVE In December 2015, Alpha Sigma Alpha launched MobileServe, a free app designed to track members’ service and charitable giving hours.

SERVICE IMMERSION EXPERIENCE • The service immersion experience was held in Oahu, HI from May 29-June 5, 2016.

• 13 participants and two alumna team leaders experienced the trip.

• 285 total hours of service among all the participants in four days.

Service Hours

82 106,330 1,297

average number of chapters reported. total hours served.

average hours served per chapter.

Charitable Giving Hours

82 44,540 543

average number of chapters reported.

S. JUNE SMITH CENTER SERVICE GRANTS Five collegians received spring break service grants to volunteer at the Center in spring 2016.

UNDERGRADUATE INTERFRATERNITY INSTITUTE Ten scholarships were awarded to collegians to attend UIFI in summer 2016.

“AS PRESIDENT OF MY CHAPTER, I CAN NOW LEAD MY CHAPTER TO A BRIGHTER FUTURE BY REALIGNING WITH

total hours served.

OUR VALUES AND RITUALS TO ESTABLISH TRUE WOMEN OF POISE AND PURPOSE THE FOUNDERS WOULD BE PROUD OF.” – Selena Wilson, Zeta Omega

average hours served per chapter.

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

23

FEATU RE

Engagement 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 through a member’s life.

• Deliver meaningful personal and professional programming and leadership-enrichment opportunities for members.

• Foster sustainable recruitment of collegiate and alumnae members.

COLLEGIATE CHAPTERS

92 5,896 63

collegiate chapters collegiate chapter members

a verage chapter size largest average chapter size in Alpha Sigma Alpha’s history

New Chapters

Theta Omega Chapter, University of New Haven, CT Iota Alpha Chapter, Suffolk University, Boston Colonies

MEMBERSHIP In 2015-16, Alpha Sigma Alpha has seen a 4.8 percent increase in total collegiate membership and ended the year with the highest number of undergraduate members in Alpha Sigma Alpha’s history.

T exas A&M UniversityTexarkana Colony No chapters were closed during 2015-16.

NEW MEMBERS 2015-16

2756

2014-15

2711

YEAR

2013-14

2605 2274

2012-13 2011-12

2112 1985

2010-11

0

500

1000

1500 NUMBER OF MEMBERS

24

Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Fall 2016

2000

2500

3000

Alumnae Chapters

49 23 38 9

alumnae chapters average chapter size alumnae associations

AWARDS Alpha Sigma Alpha received the following awards at the 2016 Fraternal Communications Association Annual Meeting: •F irst Place Storytelling through a Blog for Alexis Cain becomes first woman to receive certificate in her program.

•F irst Place Critic’s Choice Logo Design for the Imagine Convention Logo.

•T hird Place Fred F. Yoder Award for Overall Excellence awarded to The Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha.

alumnae initiates

NEW CHAPTERS • Florida Alabama Mississippi Gulf Coast Alumnae Chapter • Southeast Michigan Alumnae Chapter

ALUMNAE DUES Alpha Sigma Alpha launched a new alumnae dues program in 2015-16. The annual dues program is $25.00 per year and will help Alpha Sigma Alpha provide more opportunities exclusively for alumnae.

ALPHASIGMAALPHA.ORG In fall 2015, Alpha Sigma Alpha launched a new website that has increased engagement through its digital marketing platform.

The new website allows members to connect with Alpha Sigma Alpha through a new interactive history timeline, a blog, digital versions of all Phoenix magazines, the missing sisters application and online forms.

1,093

missing sisters were updated through the website application in 2015-16.*

* This does not include updates made through MyASA or calls to headquarters.

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

25

FEATU RE

Financials The national council and the finance committee have been working diligently to ensure that we are continuing to protect our financial position as we navigate through the changes in the global economic environment.

BALANCE STATEMENT

MAY 31, 2015

Cash & cash equivalents

$809,730

$589,930

Accounts and notes receivable

$134,696

$260,981

Prepaid expenses

$110,675

$26,237

$20,867

$20,867

$2,559,501

$2,933,319

$209,580

$296,052

Inventories Investments Cash restricted for chapter operations Beneficial interest in trust Fixed assets

The annual audit was completed by KB Parrish & Company. The following statement was made in the independent auditors report:

MAY 31, 2016

Assets

TOTAL ASSETS

$850,000

$710,000

$1,670,913

$1,707,254

$6,365,962

$6,544,640

Liabilities Accounts & notes payable Accrued tax liability

$3,814 $-

$62,502 $29,931

“THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS REFERRED

Accrued expenses

$45,154

$32,140

TO ABOVE PRESENT FAIRLY, IN ALL

Deferred revenue

$244,814

$86,191

MATERIAL RESPECTS, THE FINANCIAL

Capital lease obligation

$35,145

$-

$1,059,580

$1,006,052

POSITION OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA

Chapter operations

SORORITY AS OF MAY 31, 2016 AND

Chapter savings

$894,852

$828,947

2015 AND THE CHANGES IN ITS NET

Notes payable

$473,038

$494,566

$2,756,397

$2,540,329

ASSETS AND ITS CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEARS THEN ENDED IN ACCORDANCE WITH ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES

TOTAL LIABILITIES

GENERALLY ACCEPTED IN THE

Funds

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.”

Undesignated - General fund Legal fund Future NPC rotation

In closing, the financial health of Alpha Sigma Alpha continues to strengthen. We continue to look ahead and plan for the future. With the support of our members and the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation, the Sorority strategic plan will continue to advance the vision for Alpha Sigma Alpha and provide our members with a meaningful and purposeful membership experience.

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Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Fall 2016

Set aside TOTAL FUNDS

$2,959,792

$3,264,175

$115,000

$115,000

$37,000

$27,000

$497,773

$598,136

$3,609,565

$4,004,311

TOTAL LIABILITIES & FUNDS

$6,365,962

$6,544,640

INCOME STATEMENT

2016-17 BUDGET MAY 31, 2016

MAY 31, 2015 Revenue

Revenue, gains & other support Membership dues

Membership revenue

$1,334,750

$1,268,259

$1,206,485

Publications fees & subscriptions

$104,430

$102,794

Insurance revenue

Property & liability insurance fees

$233,067

$226,121

Interest on accounts & notes receivable

$10,000

Interest on checking & other investments

$76,500

Grant from Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation

$258,000

Publication fees

$27,900

$52,892

$45,000

$4,626

$4,626

$230,631

$372,849

$6,799

$9,129

$68,763

$131,928

$(27,459)

$(315,604)

Royalty income

$141,790

$135,071

$2,604,622

Jewelry and merchandise sales

$201,212

$212,614

Rental income Program registration fees Interest from notes receivable

Conferences registration & program fees

$457,196

Sales of member paraphernalia

$217,700

Royalties

$133,000

Rental income & Foundation share of expense

$11,826

Foundation grant

$67,750

Other income

$10,000

Interest & dividend income, net of fees

Unrealized gain (loss) on

investments

Gain (loss) on sale of assets Realized gain (loss) on investments Other revenue TOTAL REVENUE

$-

Expenses

$-

$(219,802)

$273,853

$7,010

$8,693

$2,072,218

$613,400

Conferences & convention

$653,736

Publications & communications

$192,064

Risk management

$179,220

$2,413,559

Chapter development

Volunteer services

Education & philanthropy Expenses

$110,151 $356,992

$688,123

$520,905

Administrative & general

$438,885

$516,349

$231,588

$168,731

$3,252,715

Risk management

$151,965

$162,836

Volunteer services

$219,619

$189,747

Chapter development

Conferences & conventions

Publications & communications

Education/philanthropic

$194,835

$193,993

Total program expenses

$1,925,015

$1,752,561

$541,949

$527,222

$2,466,964

$2,279,783

Administrative & general

TOTAL EXPENSES

$1,147,152

*Expense budget is $2,820,836 after deducting depreciation and set aside expenses.

CHANGE IN NET ASSETS

$(394,746)

$133,776

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

27

M EET TH E 2 0 1 6 -1 7 C O N S ULTA N T S

Education Consultants

BRIANNE HOOPER Chapter: Zeta Tau College: Grand Valley State University, MI Degree: Hospitality and tourism management with a lodging emphasis Hometown: South Haven, MI Leadership experience: Chapter president, standards chairman “Balance is the Alpha Sigma Alpha core value that is most important to me. By living a balanced life, I am able to fulfill each of the other values through my everyday life.”

MEET THE 2016-17

CONSULTANTS T

his academic year, eight leadership consultants and two education consultants will be traveling the country visiting collegiate chapters and colonies of Alpha Sigma Alpha.

Leadership consultants serve as a resource to collegiate chapters and advisors in various aspects of chapter life including recruitment, finances, standards, officer transition, ritual and public relations.

Education consultants serve as a resource to collegiate members and advisors in the areas of membership education, academic excellence and personal development programming. They facilitate educational presentations, provide guidance in the areas of community service and charitable giving, assist in chapter efforts towards academic excellence and offer assistance in membership education initiatives.

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Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Fall 2016

SARAH JOHNSON Chapter: Beta Theta College: Central Michigan University Degree: Human resource management Hometown: Novi, MI Leadership experience: Chapter president, vice president of programming & ritual, vice president of member education, ritual chairman, parliamentarian, service & giving chairman, editor/historian “It’s going to be an adventure spearheading this new position, but I am ready for the challenge and discovery that comes with it.”

Leadership Consultants

JEN AKRIGHT

MICHELLE HARRIS

ALEXIS LAKERS

TESS TEDRICK

Chapter: Eta Eta College: Pittsburg State University, KS Degree: Family and consumer science: community and family services Hometown: Olathe, KS Leadership experience: Chapter president, vice president of programming & ritual, secretary “I believe that we continue to learn throughout our lives, so I am excited to see what this year has to teach me.”

Chapter: Zeta Zeta College: University of Central Missouri Degree: Public relations, minor in art Hometown: St. Louis, MO Leadership experience: Ritual chairman “I can’t wait to be impacted by the women of Alpha Sigma Alpha and hopefully impact them just as much.”

Chapter: Theta Kappa College: Texas A&M University - Kingsville Degree: Marketing Hometown: Kingsville, TX Leadership experience: Standards chairman, social chairman, Panhellenic delegate, college Panhellenic president, college Panhellenic treasurer “The strong bonds I have made with my sisters and other people in my life mean a lot to me.

I would not be where I am today if I did not develop those relationships.”

Chapter: Theta Gamma College: Christopher Newport University, VA Degree: Marketing with a minor in leadership studies Hometown: Fairfax, VA Leadership experience: Vice president of alumnae & heritage “Being around women who are dedicated to ideals and values inspires me to work harder to be the woman I want to be.”

NORA DIETZ-KILEN Chapter: Theta Alpha College: Coe College, IA Degree: Psychology, communication studies Hometown: Des Moines, IA Leadership experience: Vice president of membership education, vice president of alumnae & heritage, public relations chairman “Alpha Sigma Alpha has taught me how to find and create enjoyment in everything I do, which has made life so much more valuable.”

MEGAN HEARE

ELLIE WHITT

Chapter: Delta Kappa College: University of Southern Indiana Degree: Mathematics with minors in statistics and economics Hometown: Greenville, IN Leadership experience: Chapter president, vice president of programming & ritual, service & giving chairman “I want to be remembered as a consultant who genuinely cared about and provided continual support to the chapters that I visited.”

Chapter: Zeta Zeta College: University of Central Missouri Degree: Sociology with a minor in public relations Hometown: Hamilton, MO Leadership experience: Chapter president, treasurer “To see where I started with my membership in Alpha Sigma Alpha as a college freshman to where I am as a young alumna is remarkable. Growth reminds me that there is always something else to learn or see that will allow me to develop as an individual.”

COLLEEN METZLER Chapter: Alpha Gamma College: Indiana University of Pennsylvania Degree: Sociology, minor in psychology Hometown: Girard, PA Leadership experience: Vice president of programming & ritual, vice president of public relations & recruitment “I am inspired by friendships because I am fascinated by the way people are able to connect with others, and how vulnerable each person can be.”

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

29

C H APTER N E W S

1

3 1. San Antonio Alumnae Chapter Members of the San Antonio Alumnae Chapter, Alyssa Alleyn, ΖΣ, Julie Worthington Doherty, ΔΥ and Mercedes Moreno, ΖΣ, volunteer at the local Girls on the Run 5k.

2. Alpha Beta Chapter, Truman State University, MO Alpha Beta Chapter members, Jessica Hyde, Allison Bright, Madeline Hamilton, Kara Jackson and Amanda Klopcic were initiated into Order of Omega. Order of Omega recognizes juniors and seniors

30

Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Fall 2016

2

4 who have exemplified high standards in the areas of scholarship, leadership and involvement within their respective organization and within the fraternity/ sorority, campus, and local community.

3. Epsilon Epsilon Chapter, Emporia State University, KS Epsilon Epsilon Chapter hosted a carnival-themed Special Olympics dance. Local Special Olympics athletes were invited to spend the afternoon eating pizza, dancing and crafting.

4. Nu Nu Chapter, Drexel University, PA Nu Nu Chapter members volunteered at a Special Olympics track event in May. Pictured from left to right: Erin Egan, Melanie Chieng, Alanna DiGioia, Rachel Choi, Dana Pernini and Rachael Ferry

5

7 5. Beta Theta Chapter, Central Michigan University Beta Theta Chapter members, Jennah Magid and Jen Howell, celebrate successes with girls they coached during the Central Michigan Girls on the Run 5k.

6 6. Gamma Omega Chapter, Eastern Illinois University Gamma Omega Chapter competed in a tug-of-war competition put on by their college Panhellenic council.

The Gamma Omega Chapter placed first in the competition that is meant to help build unity among the fraternity/sorority community.

7. Delta Kappa Chapter, University of Southern Indiana Delta Kappa Chapter cheers on members as they compete during Greek Week.

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

31

C H APTER N E W S

9

8

10 8. Delta Nu-A Chapter, Kettering University, MI In May, Delta Nu-A Chapter members volunteered at a water station during the local Girls on the Run 5K. 9. Epsilon Phi Chapter, Indiana University Epsilon Phi Chapter members Anna Darling, Morgan Rhodes, Skye Summay and Hannah Wade celebrate their 10th place finish at Indiana University’s Little

32

Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Fall 2016

11 500. The Little 500 is a bicycle race held annually; teams of four, racing relay-style for 200 laps, compete against 32 other teams.

10. Zeta Pi Chapter, Colorado State University-Pueblo Zeta Pi Chapter volunteered at the local zoo raking leaves and pulling weeds.

11. Zeta Chi Chapter, Niagara University, NY Zeta Chi Chapter members volunteered at a table during the university’s Take Back the Night event. Take Back the Night events seek to end sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, sexual abuse and all other forms of sexual violence by creating safe communities through awareness events.

12

14 12. T heta Delta Chapter, University of Alaska-Anchorage Theta Delta Chapter members, Carmen Field and Katy Foster, participate in a Zumba event for breast cancer awareness.

13

15 13. Theta Zeta, Indiana UniversityPurdue University Indianapolis Theta Zeta attended a walk to raise awareness about mental illness. The walk was hosted by Students Who Care, an organization started by a chapter member to help end the stigma around mental illness.

15. Theta Psi Chapter, Colorado Mesa University Theta Psi Chapter members, Mariah Lassek, Katrina Lopez and Madeline Eccher, donated eight inches of their hair during their university’s Relay for Life. The donated hair will be used to make wigs for cancer victims.

14. Theta Omicron Chapter, University of Missouri – Kansas City Theta Omicron Chapter participated in their university’s Relay for Life.

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

33

ASA FOUN D AT IO N N E W S

“We believe in the experience of being an Alpha Sigma Alpha and encouraging women to explore their passion and purpose.” Since its founding, the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation has demonstrated its commitment to intellectual development and lifelong learning by offering academic scholarships to graduate members, undergraduate members and nonmembers. Our generous donors have shared their passion and purpose by establishing these scholarships. The scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, leadership and volunteerism, as well as meaningful participation in Alpha Sigma Alpha activities and other organizational activities. This year the Foundation awarded 24 scholarships. Congratulations to the following recipients for the 2016-17 academic year:

34

AMY M. SWISHER SCHOLARSHIP Jennifer Hermanson, ΖΖ, University of Central Missouri

DR. ROSALIE MESSINA SIMARI SCHOLARSHIP Jodi Jabs, ΖΒ, University of Wisconsin-River Falls

LOIS V. BEERS SCHOLARSHIP Gretchen Reed, ΗΗ, Pittsburg State University, KS

MARTHA GREEN DIMOND SCHOLARSHIP Annamaria Primiani, ΘΩ, University of New Haven, CT

NATIONAL PHILANTHROPIC SCHOLARSHIP Mariah Tucker, ΘΜ, Valdosta State University, GA

NATIONAL SPECIAL EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP Sierra Brown, ΒΕ, James Madison University, VA

BETA ZETA SCHOLARSHIP Taylor Fox, ΖΨ, Loras College, IA

HILDA GIRAUD ENDOWED FOUNDERS’ MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP Savannah Marker, ΘΑ, Coe College, IA

Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Fall 2016

SUZANNE HEBERT ENDOWED FOUNDERS’ MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP Rylee Lewis, ΘΥ, Boise State University, ID

S. JUNE SMITH ENDOWED FOUNDERS’ MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP Lawson Gutzwiller, ΕΦ, Indiana University

PAST PRESIDENTS’ ENDOWED FOUNDERS’ MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP Elisabeth Zarnoti, ΘΝ, Knox College, IL

ALPHA BETA ENDOWED FOUNDERS’ MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP Brittany Lewis, ΘΧ, Methodist University, NC

MARY TURNER GALLAGHER SCHOLARSHIP Emma Ng, ΕΦ, Indiana University

WILMA WILSON SHARP SCHOLARSHIP Shannon McPike, ΕΦ, Indiana University

NANCY A. MARTIN WILLIAMS SCHOLARSHIP Lori Donovan, ΘΣ, Southern Connecticut State University

DR. GERALDINE COX LEADERSHIP SCHOLARSHIP Meaghan Geatens, ΝΝ, Drexel University, PA

MARY EMERSON BLACKSTONE & GRACE FULTZ HAWORTH SCHOLARSHIP Ashley Roylance, ΘΔ, University of Alaska-Anchorage

MARY EMERSON BLACKSTONE & GRACE FULTZ HAWORTH SCHOLARSHIP Autumn Moffitt, ΒΝ, Murray State University, KY

MARY EMERSON BLACKSTONE & GRACE FULTZ HAWORTH SCHOLARSHIP Megan Small, ΒΡ, Northern Illinois University

PATTI BALWANZ SCHOLARSHIP Jewel Perkins, ΒΣ, Missouri State University

BETA SIGMA SCHOLARSHIP Taylor Proske, ΒΣ, Missouri State University

DR. ANN ROWLETTE SCHOLARSHIP Jordan Poore, ΦΦ, Northwest Missouri State University

ZETA ETA SCHOLARSHIP Beverly Ziegler, ΖΗ, Rockhurst University, MO

ZETA ZETA SCHOLARSHIP Lauren Pape, ΖΖ, University of Central Missouri

LEARN MORE ABOUT SCHOLARSHIPS AT ALPHASIGMAALPHA.ORG, SEARCH “SCHOLARSHIPS.”

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

35

ASA PA LMS

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 Epsilon Chapter, James Madison University, VA Kristen-Paige Madonia, BE, published her second novel, Invisible Fault Lines, in May 2016. The novel explores how one teen rebuilds her life after everything seems lost. Kristen-Page was hailed by Judy Blume as “a remarkable young novelist,” after the release of her first book, Fingerprints of You.

Epsilon Epsilon Chapter, Emporia State University, KS Theta Upsilon Chapter, Boise State University Kylee Solberg, ΘΥ, was crowned Miss Idaho 2016 on Saturday, June 18. Kylee competed with 21 young women from around the state.

Kylee placed in the top 15 at Miss America on Sept. 11, 2016, in Atlantic City, NJ. She is currently attending Boise State University to pursue a communications degree. Kylee was first runner up in the Miss Idaho Pageant in 2015 and was crowned Miss National Sweetheart 2015.

Jessie James Stinson, EE, was recognized

by Sigma Kappa Sorority with the Angela C. Guillory Outstanding Fraternity/ Sorority Advisor Award. This award is intended to recognize any fraternity/ sorority advisor regardless of his/her affiliation who demonstrates a commitment to fraternities and sororities on their campus while promoting the interfraternal community. Jessie is the Assistant Director for Resident and Fraternity/Sorority Life at the University of Central Missouri.

Each year, 33 college-aged women are selected as Indianapolis 500 Festival Princesses. The program celebrates Indiana’s most civicminded, poised, academically driven young women. Ali Harris, EΦ, Shelby Bradford, ΘΖ, Macy Nikirk, ΘΖ and Morgan Jacobs, ΒΥ were selected as 2016 princesses and served as ambassadors of the 500 Festival, their hometowns and their universities. www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

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IN MEMORIAM

Alpha

Kappa Kappa

Deborah Howser Burgess Judith Foster Valentine Betsy Jennings White

Linda Logan Cangelose Ruth Williams Walp Grace Williams Walti

Alpha Alpha

Nu Nu

Julie Illner Anne Petree Niemeyer Ruth Nisely Overturf Judith Paetow Margaret Phelps Shirley Sledz Wakefield

Nancy Weigle Beshore Jean Thomas Bonde Rachel Garber Lovett Katherine McNally Rauch Jane Toy Richter Pi Pi

Alpha Beta

Betty Stutler Cochran Carol Jean Trunnell Conkin

Judith Dingeldey Christine Clavelin Gable Phi Phi

Alpha Gamma

Mary Kunkle Leon Jane Shaffer Peters

Shirley French Job Kathryn Espey Jones

Lydia Cicmanec Balkenbush Ethel Pennell Platt Epsilon Epsilon

Mary Russell Elving Lucille Bender Foncannon Marianna White McClenny Lelia Stohr Roberts

Rosemarie Kaiser Baden Ruth Bickel McFall Wilma Pyle Eva Stout Watson Christine White

Beta Iota

Gamma Kappa

Kristine Brophy Beaulieu Shirley Harcum McDaniel Libby Richmond McWilliams

Mary Ralston Barker Gamma Rho

Kristine Mount Wells Jeanne Simon Krahn Sandra Kaminsky Schutz

Gamma Psi

Gamma Clio

Gamma Omega

Shirley Chase Purcell

Christine Hybiak Casavant Lisa Randle

Vivian Bell Outen

Bernita Offerman Sipan Beta Pi

Zeta Zeta

Rhetta Nesbitt Robinson

Ginger Cummings Moore Ruth Swigert Smith

Beta Delta

Pamela Ward Anderson Susie McGehee Brown Jeanette Gardner Keckley Betty Kissee Lawson Shirley Ratledge Mccourt Virginia Sullivan Ortaloni Sari Wheeler Pouch Tina Layton Schicke Sylvia Silvia Spruk

I SEEM SOMETIMES TO SEE THY FACE BUT SINCE THIS MAY NOT BE I’LL LEAVE THEE TO THE CARE OF HIM WHO CARES FOR THEE AND ME.’ – MIZPAH BENEDICTION

Patricia Beck Emminger

Beta Nu Omega Omega

Beta Gamma

Eta Eta

LET GOD KEEP WATCH ‘TWEEN THEE AND ME SO NEVER FEAR. HE HOLDS THY HAND, HE CLASPETH MINE AND KEEPS US NEAR.

Beta Kappa Chi Chi

Beta Beta

‘GO THOU THY WAY AND I GO MINE APART YET NOT AFAR; ONLY A THIN VEIL HANGS BETWEEN THY PATHWAYS WHERE WE ARE.

Gerry Alesio Mooney Beta Sigma

Cynthia Campbell Brown Lucretia Applewhite Bryant Betty Robertson Tillman

Jeannette Bell Renie Robin Rule Linda Hagener Williams

Delta Epsilon

Paula Mikolajczyk Ballard Susan Lessick Lipman Sandra Dodge McClain Patricia Rorick Strasburger Holly Reppert Vincent Delta Kappa

Diane Schroeder Marheine Mary Barthel VanRossen

Beta Upsilon Beta Epsilon

Davilee Bryant Bonnell Florence Pettyjohn Ellis

Miriam Swartz Abbott Ruth Graddy Strickland

Delta Xi

Marsha Williams Pool

Beta Chi

Delta Omicron

Beta Zeta

Phyllis Hill VanFredenberg

Pamela Abel Prince

Hilda Giraud Aline Smith Squires

Beta Psi

Epsilon Alpha

Karen England

Erna Beckman Crimmins Jean Manning St. Michel

Caryl Sofiak Becker Ann Gronemeyer Johnson Susan Modderman Schrepper Judy Kolinski Toth

Beta Theta

Beta Omega

Zeta Gamma

Kathryn Sanwald Davidson Judy Vance

Louise Pierson Johnson

Julie Andrulonis Duttine Tina Maiorana

Beta Eta

Epsilon Nu

Christine Verdone Scheunemann

Gamma Eta

Mikelle Calhoun

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Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Fall 2016

As reported to national headquarters June 1, 2015 - May 31, 2016.

archives

from the

One hundred years ago, a rushing manual materialized in connection with The Phoenix of Sept. 16, 1916. It consisted of six mimeographed sheets and contained the following divisions: Principles in Rushing, Whom to Rush, How to Rush, Ideals, Training, Organization, Argument and Its Rivals. It concluded with the advice “You are a member of a STRONG sorority, one that ranks with the best in the country. Live it, talk it, dream it, work for it. In no other way can you so effectively convince others of its beauty, its greatness and its power.� www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

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9002 Vincennes Circle | Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018

WOMAN OF

Poise and Purpose �

Since I received a bid from Alpha Sigma Alpha, I've been surrounded by a community of women who are just as passionate as I am about giving back.

Now I have sisters that I can make an impact with, I feel more empowered to make a change in this world.

When I was 15, I found a suicide prevention movement called Buddy Project. Over the past three and a half years, I've paired more than 158,000 people with a buddy based on their interests and age. I've been able to find dominant beauty in friendships with the help of Buddy Project.

I hope to motivate members of Alpha Sigma Alpha to make a difference. Every action, whether big or small, makes an impact on the world."

Gabby Frost, NN Buddy Project, Founder & CEO