SPRING 2021 | VOLUME 107
the
Beauty of Nature PAGE 16
PROGRESS NOT PERFECTION PAGE 10 MEMBER SPOTLIGHT PAGE 24
UP FRONT
How do you find beauty in nature ? "Over the last year, my appreciation for nature and all its beauty has been a deeper appreciation of the more random moments I find in my everyday life. For example, this past fall, I was taking a walk in my neighborhood and along the sidewalk was the remnants of a rose bush that had a single bloom left on it. The way that one last bloom was thriving in the late afternoon autumn sun, while the rest of the plant was dying for the season, was utterly breathtaking. I stood there for a moment or two just to look at it and to appreciate its beauty – the last "flower" of
NIKKI KAWALEC, ZY ASA FOUNDATION TRUSTEE
the season. I find it is in those random moments where you are not looking to find beauty in nature that it tends to find you."
"I love spending time in the garden. Digging in the dirt gives me a great deal of satisfaction — I can spend hours weeding, planting, trimming and watering. Every year, I look to plan and improve areas of my garden. And then, after all the work is done, I get to enjoy the results of my efforts and the beauty of the flowers."
NANCY I. Z. REESE, BY CHICAGO NORTH SUBURBAN ALUMNAE CHAPTER PRESIDENT
2 Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha
FROM THE PRESIDENT B Y KELLY MCGI N NI S B E C K, E K , N ATIO N A L PR E S I D E N T
Our national headquarters is built upon land that belongs to the Miami, Potawatomi, Shawnee people and others. On our website, when you navigate to the page that shares the history of our national headquarters, you will find our land acknowledgement statement:
We acknowledge that Alpha Sigma Alpha National Headquarters is located on the traditional and ancestral territory of the Miami, Potawatomi, Shawnee people and others. We begin by acknowledging that the land is the contested territory of Native peoples. The genocide and removal included the Beaver Wars, the 1795 treaty of Grenville, the War of 1812, the 1830 Indian Removal Act and the 1838 Potawatomi Trail of Death (started in Indiana and ended in Kansas). It is situated on treaty land that is steeped in rich Indigenous history and home to many First Nations people today, including Native American and Indigenous Studies scholars, leaders, artists, writers, athletes, environmentalists and activists. As an organization, we have a responsibility for the stewardship of the land on which we live and work. Many native tribes fled the territory that became Indiana (Land of the Indians) during a conflict known as the Beaver Wars (1640-1701). These groups only returned after the wars ended in 1701. The war was fought over territory and the ability to hunt beaver for their pelts. Beaver hats served as a status symbol for position and wealth from the 1600s to the 1700s. Most notably, Napoleon Bonaparte’s hats were made from beaver pelts.
Initiatives, “It is important to understand the longstanding history that has brought you to reside on the land, and to seek to understand your place within that history. Land acknowledgements do not exist in a past tense, or historical context: colonialism is a current ongoing process, and we need to build our mindfulness of our present participation.” As stewards of the land today, Alpha Sigma Alpha’s property is a Certified Wildlife Habitat® with the National Wildlife Federation. This land provides a wildlife garden that attracts birds, butterflies and other neighborhood wildlife. It is our way of taking care of the land for the future. I encourage you to learn more about the history of the land upon which you live and work. You can visit https://nativeland.ca/ and enter in your address to find out which tribe(s) were the original settlers of the land. Where I live in eastern Pennsylvania, the Lenni-Lenape people first settled here. Many were eventually removed from the area and some even moved to Indiana before mostly settling in Oklahoma. The Lenape were the first tribe to sign a treaty with the United States and the first tribe to have land set aside for them in New Jersey. It was interesting to learn that many place names in Pennsylvania are derived from the Lenape language, such as Manyunk, Conshohocken and Neshaminy. And where I live, we have several streets with names derived from the Lenape tribe, including Lenape Road. What will you learn about the land upon which you live? And once you have built your knowledge, are there ways you can support local Indigenous tribes? Alpha Sigma Alpha will continue to do our part in serving as allies and stewards of this land and any land where we meet. At future in-person events we will open with a land acknowledgement statement. I look forward to the day when we can be together again to celebrate our sisterhood and the beauty around us. In Alpha Sigma Alpha,
The 1795 Treaty of Grenville began the forced removal of land from Native Americans in Indiana. The continual conflicts between the United States and Europe eventually came to a head, especially after the War of 1812, and the United States began removing the indigenous peoples of Indiana to territories further west. The Potawatomi were the final indigenous peoples to be removed from Indiana, forced to march from their homeland in northern Indiana to a small reserve in present-day Kansas. This trek is referred to as the Trail of Death because a day rarely passed that a member of the party did not die, usually a child. More than 40 people died over this 660-mile trek.
KELLY MCGINNIS BECK, EK
Our land acknowledgement statement recognizes and respects Indigenous Peoples as traditional stewards of the land we reside on. You may wonder why this is important. To quote Northwestern University’s Native American and Indigenous
https://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/8616.htm
NATIONAL PRESIDENT @ASAKELLYM References: https://www.potawatomi.org https://www.connerprairie.org/educate/indiana-history/native-americans-inindiana/ https://www.warpaths2peacepipes.com/the-indian-wars/beaver-wars.htm
https://www.lenape-nation.org/
Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha 3
16 in every issue 03 FROM THE PRESIDENT 05 FROM THE EDITOR 06 NEWS & UPDATES 26 CHAPTER NEWS 30 FROM THE ARCHIVES 31 FROM THE FOUNDATION
just this issue
26
08 N ATIONAL EVENTS UPDATE 10 PROGRESS NOT PERFECTION 12 NOT ALL WOUNDS ARE VISIBLE 16 T HE BEAUTY OF NATURE 24 MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
4 Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha
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Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha 4
Volume 107 | Issue 2
F R O M T HE EDITOR Dear readers, After a long winter, the start of warm weather in Indiana is one of the best feelings for me. Many people, myself included, suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD) from the cold weather and having to be inside most of the time. When the weather improves and I am able to be outside more often, it feels as if a weight has been lifted and a sense of refreshment instills. The feature article for this issue is about the beauty of nature (pg. 16). While I enjoy nature year-round, I especially admire it in the spring. Now is a good time to reflect on how the beauty of nature can make a positive impact in your life. When we take the time to acknowledge this, it allows us to truly appreciate the natural beauty around us. This has been especially true for me during the pandemic and it is an excellent way for me to escape from day-to-day life and stress. I also recommend learning about mental health and one of the initiatives Alpha Sigma Alpha has to offer for members (pg. 12). Behind Happy Faces is a great program for collegians and brings mental health to the forefront of our initiatives. I believe it is important that we focus on our well-being and acknowledge the state of our mental health on a regular basis. I hope everyone enjoys all that spring and the upcoming summer months have to offer in nature. As always, please share your feedback with us on this issue by sending an email to asa@alphasigmaalpha.org. My best,
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. © Alpha Sigma Alpha Send address changes, death notices and business correspondence to the national headquaters. Address all editorial correspondence to the editor. POSTMASTER: Send address changes (Form 3579) to Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha, 9002 Vincennes Circle, Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018. Printed in the USA. DEADLINES Spring Dec. 10 Summer March 10 Fall June 10 EDITOR Natalie Knisely
NATALIE KNISELY DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING CORREC T IO N F R O M W I NT E R 2 0 2 1 I S S U E We sincerely apologize for the misspelling of Marinda Phandanouvong's name in our Volunteer Highlights.
WINTER 2021 | VOLUME 107
NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS 9002 Vincennes Circle Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018 Phone: (317) 871-2920 Fax: (317) 871-2924 Email: asa@AlphaSigmaAlpha.org
S H A R E YOUR TH OUGH TS We welcome comments about this publication. Email asa@alphasigmaalpha.org or mail to: Editor, Alpha Sigma Alpha 9002 Vincennes Circle Indianapolis, IN 46268
Adaptations in Education VIRTUAL RECRUITMENT PAGE 10
PAGE 16
VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION PAGE 12
Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha 5
5 Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha
N ews & U pdates
It is almost time for...ASA Night In! THURSDAY, MAY 20, 2021 To participate, members must request to join the “Alpha Sigma Alpha Alumnae Book Club” Facebook group. Join Alpha Sigma Alpha alumnae in the upcoming book club discussions:
Make sure to register your ASA Night In event on the alumnae calendar at www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org/alumnaeevents. As we continue to follow the CDC’s recommendations of social distancing, we encourage sisters to connect with each other on this night in alternative ways. Get creative and utilize a virtual resource. This past year we have seen many new and fun ways to get together virtually, including:
May 2021: Things You Save In A Fire by Katherine Center
Discussion: Wednesday, May 12 at 8 p.m. ET
June 2021: So You Want To Talk About Race by Ijeoma Oluo
Discussion: Wednesday, June 9 at 9 p.m. ET
July 2021: We Begin At The End by Chris Whitaker
Discussion: Wednesday, July 14 at 9 p.m. ET
August 2021: Wild by Cheryl Strayed
Discussion: Sunday, Aug. 15 at 7 p.m. ET
6 Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha
Host a movie night via video conferencing Take a virtual cooking class Have a book club discussion Take a live canvas painting or art class
Learn more about ASA Night In at https://www.alphasigmaalpha.org/alumnae-2/asa-night-out/. Make sure to take a screenshot of what you are doing, and share it on social media using #ASANightIn.
Editor's Note The organizational purpose of Alpha Sigma Alpha has always been focused on the development of women. As a women’s organization, when referring to the membership as a whole, Alpha Sigma Alpha will make reference to members as women and will use female pronouns. We recognize the importance of personal pronouns and will refer to individual members using their pronouns. Members may select their personal pronouns on their profile screen in MyASA.
S T R AT E G I C G O A L A R E A S T R AT E G I C G O A L A R E A
EXEMPLIFY
STRATEGIC GOAL AREA LABELS
Articles in the magazine are labeled with a strategic goal area that corresponds to the article. These labels help members connect to the 2018-22 Alpha Sigma Alpha Strategic Plan.
VO LUNT EER AP P REC IAT IO N M ONTH
We love our volunteers from all over the country - thank you for all you do! = Places you can find Alpha Sigma Alpha volunteers
Number of volunteers in every state:
ALABAMA 7 ALASKA 4 ARIZONA 9 ARKANSAS 25 CALIFORNIA 3 COLORADO 25 CONNECTICUT 10 DELAWARE 2 FLORIDA 10 GEORGIA 16
HAWAII 0 IDAHO 5 ILLINOIS 40 INDIANA 46 IOWA 9 KANSAS 25 KENTUCKY 8 LOUISIANA 1 MAINE 1 MARYLAND 12
MASSACHUSETTS 7 MICHIGAN 44 MINNESOTA 17 MISSISSIPPI 0 MISSOURI 55 MONTANA 0 NEBRASKA 0 NEVADA 0 NEW HAMPSHIRE 5 NEW JERSEY 18
NEW MEXICO 2 NEW YORK 40 NORTH CAROLINA 16 NORTH DAKOTA 1 OHIO 25 OKLAHOMA 5 OREGON 0 PENNSYLVANIA 60 RHODE ISLAND 6 SOUTH CAROLINA 3
SOUTH DAKOTA 0 TENNESSEE 9 TEXAS 53 UTAH 0 VERMONT 1 VIRGINIA 56 WASHINGTON 1 WEST VIRGINIA 5 WISCONSIN 3 WYOMING 1
Interested in becoming an Alpha Sigma Alpha volunteer? Learn more about getting involved by visiting the website today. Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha 7
NATIONAL EVENTS UPDATE S T R AT E G I C G O A L A R E A
CONNECT
Mark Your Calendar! Don’t miss these exciting programming opportunities! For more information, visit www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org/programming/national-events.
This summer, collegiate members across the country will participate in Alpha Sigma Alpha’s Virtual Leadership Summit, an immersive, live virtual program dedicated to providing collegiate women with the opportunity for leadership skills development.
JUNE 24-25, 2021 This program is being offered in Summer 2021 due to the cancelation of the Emma Coleman Frost Leadership Development Institute (LDI).
JULY 15-16, 2021
JULY 29-30, 2021
TINA VANSTEENBERGEN This program will be led by speaker Tina VanSteenbergen Robilotta.
Coming Soon... THE ACADEMY 2021-22 During the 2021-22 academic year, collegiate chapters will participate in The Academy, Alpha Sigma Alpha’s annual regional conference dedicated to providing collegiate members with opportunities for personal and professional development. In an effort to continue implementing thoughtful health and safety regulations, The Academy will be provided in a virtual format in Fall 2021. Alpha Sigma Alpha will hold in-person Academy events in Spring 2022. Chapters will be assigned an event format based on their accessibility to one of the in-person event locations. Chapters will be notified in May 2021 with more information about their chapter’s assigned date and event format. 8 Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha
Sisters will meet July 13-16, 2022 in Baltimore, MD for the 52nd National Convention & Leadership Conference, Shine Together! The national convention & leadership conference is Alpha Sigma Alpha’s premier event where members gather to celebrate sisterhood, heritage, leadership and service.
These programs are sponsored by grants from the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation.
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FINANCIAL WELL-BEING S T R AT E G I C G O A L A R E A
ADVANCE
PROGRE$$ not perfection WRITTEN BY: SABRINA MELGAREJO, GF, FINANCIAL COACH
Every day, women confide in me to discuss their finances and I would say at least 90% of the time, those women have negative emotions when it comes to their money. Whether they feel they don’t have enough money to enjoy their life, they feel trapped by debt, they are constantly comparing themselves to others who may appear to have more money or they don’t feel capable of handling their finances by themselves - I’ve heard it all. If that sounds like you, don’t stress - it’s not your fault! Growing up in school we were taught how to identify metaphors in novels and memorize the periodic table but we were never taught financial literacy, something that we would have to use every day for the rest of our lives. Regardless of our past, we can always improve ourselves moving forward and that is what matters. This is the key to the success of myself, my clients and what will be successful for you too - the PNP mindset. The Progress Not Perfection mindset is what I instill with every one of my clients. Having this mindset means you are focused on how to improve yourself each day little by little as opposed to wishing you had this subjective “perfect” financial situation. Every individual has a different definition of “perfection” - for some, that’s having a lot of nice cars, for others, that’s having a lot in your savings account. You yourself might have changed your definition of perfection over time too. In high school, being perfect with money may have been having a lot in your bank account. In your late twenties, being perfect with money may have been having a lot of money invested. Our definition of perfection always changes but our consistent determination to improve ourselves doesn’t have to. 10 Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha
Wondering how to measure progress in your finances? Net worth! Here's how to calculate it:
1
2
Calculate your assets a.k.a. things you own like cash, the balance in your bank accounts, investment accounts, homes, cars (even if you owe money on your home/car, you can still include it as an asset if you own it). Calculate your liabilities a.k.a. things you owe like credit cards, student loans, mortgage, car loans.
3 liabilitiesassets Take your
and subtract your - that's your net worth number
Don’t freak out over your number. Remember, we are focusing on progress not perfection. This number is just a starting point. Regardless of how low you might think it is, as long as you are improving it over time, you’re killing it! If you calculate your number and you are stressing, reach out to me and I will get rid of that fear ASAP.
Now let’s talk about how to improve your net worth number as I am sure you are excited to get this journey going. There are two types of ways we can improve - through the asset side of the equation or the liability side of the equation.
Here are some actions to take to increase your assets:
Here are some actions to take to decrease your liabilities:
•
Focus on increasing your savings rate (this is the percentage of the money you are saving/ investing out of the income you are receiving).
•
•
Start investing (no matter how small).
Pick a debt payoff method like snowball or avalanche for example - get your game plan set up when it comes to tackling debt. Take them one at a time and it will go quicker.
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Set up automatic transfers to your savings accounts or investment accounts.
•
•
Set up payment elections with your employer - you can tell your employer to put a percentage or dollar amount of your paycheck into your savings account before they even give it to you to spend.
Increase your automatic payments to above the minimum payment - instead of paying $20/month, can you pay $40/month? Every little bit counts.
•
Call the credit card company and see if they can lower your interest rate. The worst thing that can happen is that they say no and everything stays as-is.
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Focus on “bad” debt over “good” debt first. “Bad” debt is high-interest debt like credit cards that cost you a lot more in the long run.
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Create a tracking system to keep yourself accountable and celebrate the small wins.
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Don’t beat yourself up. Fear and embarrassment will paralyze your progress. You might put those feelings on yourself or you might hear other personal finance “experts” tell you that having debt means you are dumb. Ignore this. We are not focusing on the past. We are focusing on improving ourselves day by day moving forward.
•
Take advantage of 401k matches with your employer.
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Go on Pinterest and start a savings challenge there are hundreds on there.
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• • • •
Open a HYSA (high yield savings account) your money will grow a lot faster in there than in a regular savings account.
•
As sisters of Alpha Sigma Alpha, we understand the value of responsibility in our lives and why we need to focus on getting our money right. However, do not forget enjoyment needs to be prioritized as well. Life is meant to be lived. There will be days when you save and there will be days when you spend. Practice getting comfortable balancing the two and watch your stress go down and your happiness increase. If you have any personal finance questions or just need to talk to someone about what might be stressing you out, reach out to me. I’m here for you sister.
Instagram: @__financiallyfree__ YouTube: Sabrina Ana Maria Email: support@sabrinaanamaria.com
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Not All Wounds are Visible S T R AT E G I C G O A L A R E A
EXEMPLIFY
WRITTEN BY: LEXI MOORE, EF, PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Mental Health and the COVID-19 Pandemic Everyone can agree that this past year has been hard. The global pandemic served as a common stressor for all, however, the mental health of young people has been disproportionately affected. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 75% of young adults ages 18-24 have reported struggling with depression or anxiety during the pandemic. Further, 1 in 4 young adults in the same age group reported having seriously considered suicide in the last 30 days.1 These astonishing statistics highlight the severity of the mental health crisis among the collegiate student age group and the need for intervention.
Defining Mental Health and Recognizing the Signs of Mental Health Challenges In order to understand mental health, it must be properly defined. According to the CDC, mental health is made up of an individual’s emotional, psychological and social well-being. The balance of these areas contributes to how people handle stress and relate to others.2 Students often struggle with five forms of stress: academic stress, family stress, personal stress, financial stress and future stress. Unfortunately, the global pandemic continues to directly affect each of these areas. In addition to the aforementioned stressors, some students are struggling to manage a mental illness. Unlike mental health, mental illnesses are diagnosable medical conditions that directly affect a person’s thinking, feeling, mood or behavior. These include conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, personality disorders and more. So how do students distinguish whether they or a loved one are experiencing a mental health challenge or a mental illness? How do they identify the need to rebalance or seek help to better their mental health? It can be hard to tell whether someone is having a series of bad days or if they are suffering from something more serious. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) warns that a person may be experiencing a mental health challenge if they have prolonged feelings of sadness, drastic mood changes, or if they are having trouble eating or trouble concentrating. Signs that someone may be in immediate danger and need of professional assistance are extreme feelings of hopelessness or if they indicate thoughts of self harm.3 Early intervention is key to ensuring the safety and well-being of an individual experiencing a mental health challenge. Familiarizing themselves with the signs and common stressors that they may experience allows students to identify how they or a friend are feeling, work to better communicate their needs with others or seek help from medical professionals if necessary. These tools along with a clear definition of mental health helps to remove the stigma surrounding the topic and opens the door for discussing these challenges with others. 12 Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha
MENTA L H E A LTH
10
Common Signs of a Mental Health Condition 1. Feeling very sad or withdrawn for more than two weeks 2. Severe, out-of-control risk taking behaviors 3. Sudden overwhelming fear 4. Not eating, throwing up or using laxatives to lose weight 5. Seeing, hearing or believing things that are not real 6. Repeatedly and excessively using drugs or alcohol 7. Drastic changes in mood, behavior, personality or sleeping habits 8. Extreme difficulty in concentrating or staying still 9. Intense worries or fears that interfere with daily activities 10. Trying to harm oneself or planning to do so 4
How to Help a Friend Facing a Mental Health Challenge Although mental health challenges are common among young people, nearly half of college aged students do not seek help.5 One of the many barriers that prevents them from seeking help is the feeling of being a burden to someone else. This barrier to sharing the emotions they are navigating may lead students to withdraw from activities that once brought them joy. It may also lead them to distance themselves from people they care about or develop ineffective coping mechanisms such as drug or alcohol use. Knowing how to effectively engage students experiencing a mental health challenge in a Behind Happy Faces curriculum developer, Ross Szabo, discusses how to talk to a conversation is key to opening the door for them friend about mental health with collegiate members during his session of the Spring to seek help. Having a conversation with someone 2021 Live Virtual Collegiate Keynote Series. about mental health can be uncomfortable for all parties involved. So it is no surprise that navigating these conversations and offering support from a distance presents its own challenges. An inability to be there physically for someone does not mean that there are not other ways to show up for them. In fact, the most powerful way to show up for someone is by offering them a safe place to be heard. Whether it is a weekly FaceTime call, frequent text or email, keeping an open line of communication allows us to check-in. Utilize the conversation starters listed on the next page to start the conversation with a friend you think may be experiencing a mental health challenge. Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha 13
MENTAL HEALTH
Concerned About a Friend? Here are Some Ways to Start the Conversation: -"How are you feeling?" -"Is there anything you would like to talk about? -"Are you alright? I've noticed you've missed class a couple of times." -"I feel like something's up. Can you share with me?" -"I know life can be overwhelming sometimes. So, if you need to talk I'm here."6 During the conversation, it is critical to let the individual experiencing the mental health challenge take the lead. Create a safe and open environment that lets them know that they are cared for and free from judgement. Validate their feelings and refrain from giving personal advice. After the conversation, be sure to follow-up and check-in regularly. Be a friend that they can rely on to be a sounding board and direct them to additional resources as needed. If at any time the person’s safety and well-being become a cause for concern, call 9-1-1 or loop in a professional. As the world continues to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, the long term effects on mental health remain to be seen. It is critical that young people continue to take care of themselves and others around them. It is important to note that students do not have to wait until things get overbearing to seek help in managing their mental health. In fact, being proactive can better help them manage or cope with mental health challenges as they arise. Practicing self-care, familiarizing oneself with reliable resources and maintaining open communication with a trusted source are all ways students can work to maintain balance with their mental health.
RESOURCES Behind Happy Faces Collegiate Curriculum Alpha Sigma Alpha is committed to fostering a sisterhood that is supportive of mental health. In the fall of 2020, the Sorority introduced the Behind Happy Faces mental health program to collegiate chapters. This program utilizes educational videos and lesson plans to enhance emotional development. The lessons cover topics such as understanding mental health, changing ineffective coping and how to talk to a sister who is experiencing a mental health challenge. Interested in participating in a Behind Happy Faces lesson? Ask your chapter wellness chairman for more information about facilitating this program for your chapter. “[The Behind Happy Faces program] reminded me that it is important for us to all be kind, understanding and present for one another since we never know what other sisters may be going through.” Allie Hanon, Theta Omega “Having the opportunity to lead the Behind Happy Faces lesson was really eye-opening. I was able to deepen my understanding of mental health and learn how to have an appropriate, meaningful conversation with a sister.” Francesca Tronieri, Gamma Phi.
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75% of all mental health conditions begin by age 24 (NAMI)
1 in 5 young adults experience a mental health condition (NAMI)
50% of college students do not seek help for their mental health (Behind
75% of young adults ages 18-24 have reported struggling with depression
Happy Faces curriculum)
or anxiety during the pandemic (CDC)
Hotlines Call 911 if you or a loved one are in immediate danger. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides free and confidential support to persons experiencing suicidal crisis or emotional distress. The line is active 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 800-273-TALK (8255) When you text The Crisis Text Line, a trained Crisis Counselor responds. Centered on empathy, this counselor will listen and help you process through your feelings in the moment. Text HOME to 741741 The Trevor Project: The Trevor Project is the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ+ young people under 25. Trevor Lifeline: 1-866-488-7386 Trevor Text: Text START to 678-678
Educational Websites
Behind Happy Faces Advisor Resource Series
Seizetheawkward.org
Workshop 1- Face the Facts: Mental Health Overview
Thetrevorproject.org
Workshop 2- Face Forward: Creating Effective Coping
Nami.org
Workshop 3- Face Reality: Mental Distress Warnings & How to Help Workshop 4: Face the Mirror: Self Care for Advisors
Sources:
Workshop 5- Face the Challenges: Handling Crisis Situations
1 Czeisler MÉ , Lane RI, Petrosky E, et al. Mental Health, Substance Use, and Suicidal Ideation During the COVID-19 Pandemic — United States, June 24–30, 2020. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2020;69:1049–1057. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm6932a1 2 https://www.cdc.gov/mentalhealth/learn/index.htm 3 https://nami.org/Support-Education/Publications-Reports/Guides/Starting-the-Conversation/CollegeGuide 4 https://nami.org/Support-Education/Publications-Reports/Guides/Starting-the-Conversation/CollegeGuide 5 Behind Happy Faces curriculum 6 https://seizetheawkward.org/conversation/starting-the-conversation
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FEATURE AR TICLE
the
Beauty of Nature WRITTEN BY: SUSAN ALYNNE DAY, AB, PROFESSIONAL BLOGGER
S T R AT E G I C G O A L A R E A
ADVANCE
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Ahh, Spring . . . Trees are sprouting tiny green buds of leaves, birds are chirping and singing as they build their nests and the daylight is lingering a little longer each evening. Although the air is still cool at times, you can feel just a hint of warmth in its breeze. Of course, who can miss the telltale sign of the Narcissus flowers poking through the soil of their flower beds where they have been sleeping all fall and winter? Spring has always been my favorite time of year. I have fond memories of walking to class across the “quad", with a lightness, dare I say spring in my step, visually taking in the fresh beauty surrounding me… all while dodging flying frisbees of course! Spring on campus was so full of life as students emerged from their dorms, wiping winter (or was that sleep?) from their eyes, to enjoy a walk or bike ride across campus to class.
The Creed and COVID-19 A few years have gone by since my college days full of sisterhood and yet The Creed of Alpha Sigma Alpha continues to guide my life. Written in 1933 by Wilma Wilson Sharp, the Creed states our goal of “living each day to its ultimate good” and lays out specific instructions for achieving a well-balanced life. Remembering the Creed, reciting its words and trying to live by its direction is more important than ever this spring as we venture on in our battle against COVID-19. I wonder if Wilma Wilson Sharp could have even imagined how many of us would venture out of quarantine surprised to “find dominant beauty in...nature” in new, albeit well-masked and appropriately socially-distanced, ways? As COVID-19 continues to impact our lives in ways that once seemed unimaginable, many of us continue to seek inspiration, hope and escape most notably, I would argue, through nature.
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FEATURE AR TICLE
and I went
The Nature Trend
Why You Should Go Outdoors
According to a study by the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, which promotes the growth of the national outdoor recreation economy and activities, less than 50% of Americans enjoyed an outdoor experience in 2019. However, in May of 2020, a survey by the organization found 81% of Americans spent time outside during the pandemic, with 32.5% turning to outdoor recreation for the first time in years.1 (I knew I counted more dogs (and their owners) strolling through my neighborhood during the pandemic last year!) Like some others, it took a pandemic for my youngest son, Jace (age 12) and I to pick up a new outdoor past-time. During one gorgeous April afternoon, (which happened to follow one particularly frustrating morning filled with Zoom meetings and school), we grabbed Gracie, the ever-willing labrador, and spent a good hour and a half following a winding trail at our local county park. It was the first time we had ever explored nature together.
Reap Health Benefits Apparently, others decided to try something new outdoors also. Psychologytoday.com reports that an activity called “forest bathing” has seen an increased number of participants since the onset of the pandemic.2 Although I have never heard of forest bathing, it sounds similar to taking a walk or a leisurely hike through the forest, while paying particular attention to the surrounding sights, sounds and smells. Importance is placed on letting go and relaxing which promotes a whole host of health benefits for your mind and body.
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Forests for Public Health, a published collection of research studies citing the benefits of forest bathing, includes all of the following: + Increased activity and number of immune cells that fight off viruses, bacteria, and even tumors + Reduced blood pressure and heart rate + Reduced blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetes patients + An increase in serums that have anti-tumorigenesis activity (adiponectin) as well as cardioprotective and anti-obesity properties + Balanced nervous system through the increasing activity of the parasympathetic nervous system and dampening of the sympathetic nervous system + Reduced stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol + Reduce anxiety, depression, anger, and mental fatigue + Increased vigor + Improved creativity and sleep quality.3
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FEATURE AR TICLE
Even if forest bathing doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, the Outdoor Industry Association says just two hours of time spent outdoors each week is all it takes to reap some of the positive health benefits and more.4 Continue reading to discover why and how you should spend some time outdoors this spring.
See Nature Springtime is one of the best times to witness the ever-changing beauty of nature. One day, the tree outside your front window will be covered in barely perceptible buds and by the next day the tree has exploded in blossoms. Unfortunately, you will have missed it if you aren’t spending time outdoors. You won’t notice or experience the miracle of regrowth that happens in the spring.
Spend Time with the Family So, you spent a lot (a LOT!) of cooped-up time with your family this past year, but how many board games and Netflix-binges can one family endure together? That’s the exact reason you need to take your family bonding outdoors. Just like the Narcissus flowers are bursting from the ground with new life spreading their color, you and your family will burst with energy and excitement as you spend time outdoors together.
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How to Experience the Nature Trend this Spring Although we are still dealing with the effects of the Coronavirus, now is the perfect time to experience nature in other new and creative ways that allow us to find even more comfort (and escape) in the “dominant beauty of...nature” this season.
Work Outdoors Are you still working from home? Set up an outdoor office on your porch or in your yard if you have a laptop or portable. If you are back in the office, schedule a walking meeting with your coworker or take your next team meeting outdoors. It might take a little forethought and set-up, but it will be worth the extra effort while promoting more empathy and cooperation among team members.
Learn Outdoors Teachers, why not have your next class outdoors? One of the most successful classes I taught as a college yoga instructor was an impromptu class outside in the grass. Most classes could take place outside (at least every once in a while barring the need for special equipment). Students, why not study outside your dorm hall or under your favorite tree on campus?
Move Indoor Activities Outdoors Families can eat outdoors on the patio or deck, or better yet pack a picnic to enjoy for lunch or dinner at a nearby park. Is more time indoors leading to the kids spending more time on screens? Set up a movie theater in the backyard with some ladders, a white sheet and a projector.
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ANNUAL REPOR FEATURE AR TICLE T
Head Outdoors This Spring With These Creative Ideas WORK OUTDOORS
LEARN OUTDOORS
DINNER & A MOVIE
EXERCISE OUTDOORS
Set up a workstation outdoors on your porch, deck or take your laptop or paperwork to the park.
Teachers, plan an outdoor class on campus; Students, meet a study group under a tree.
Plan a picnic or just move dinner out to the patio. Hang up a white sheet & rent a projector to watch a movie under the stars.
If you already enjoy exercising in the great outdoors, try a new activity or route.
GO FISHING
GO CAMPING
TAKE NATURE PHOTOS
PLANT A GARDEN
Pick up a new hobby catch and release fishing! Find the best places to fish near you with the Fishbait app for iOS and Android.
Pitch a tent, rent a cabin or roll in your R.V. Camping any way you want is fun. Find campgrounds and reserve your site.
Be a student of nature and snap some pics of trees, birds, flowers and anything else you find beautiful.
Bring nature closer to home, literally, by planting a flower or vegetable garden.
Exercise Outdoors The more time you spend outdoors, the more likely you are to move, move, move! Outdoor activities lend themselves to exercise, which boosts your health. If you are already an outdoor exerciser...a walker, runner, biker or hiker...change up your routine by taking a new route or trail.
Go Fishing Perhaps you are ready to mix in some other ways to engage with and spend time in nature. Why not pick up fishing? It is so relaxing, yet also exhilarating when you catch that “big one.” Find nearby fishing locations for your next trip and discover the best times to fish and what bait to use with the Fishbrain app. Download app for iOS or Android. Many local parks with lakes also offer paddle boats, fishing boats, and canoes for rent. Remember to purchase appropriate licenses and follow all federal, state and local laws.
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Go Camping See if you have what it takes to brave the great outdoors overnight and go camping. Look for local campgrounds where you can pitch your own tent (or a borrowed one) or rent a near-by cabin for a well-deserved stay-cation. Use the Recreation.gov app (iOS) to find and make a reservation for a RV or tent site at campgrounds across the country.
Snap Some Nature Pics This spring is the perfect time to become a student of nature. Take up nature photography by snapping pictures of anything that is of particular interest or beauty to you with your phone while spending time outside. Challenge yourself to capture colorful flowers, native birds, fluttering butterflies and other wildlife.
Plant a Garden Have you always wanted to start a garden but never seemed to have the time? Plant a small garden by building what’s commonly called a box garden. If you can handle one box garden, build another one (or two). You can find instructions for building a box for a raised garden at https://www.lowes. com/n/how-to/how-to-build-a-raised-garden-bed. Short on space? You can start a small flower or vegetable garden in some pots on your porch, patio or deck. Just make sure there is plenty of sun wherever you decide to place your garden.
No matter why or how you choose to enjoy the outdoors this spring, remember to be a good steward of nature and leave it like you found it for others to enjoy. Perhaps your chapter could even volunteer to help keep a local popular park or nearby hiking trail clean. Spending time outdoors this spring experiencing, enjoying and finding the dominant beauty in nature, no matter your activity of choice, will promise to lead you to love life and joyously live each day to its ultimate good.
Sources 1-https://madison.com/wsj/business/as-tourism-slumps-covid-19-pandemic-boosting-wisconsins-7-8billion-outdoor-economy/article_9ff201df-63f0-5793-bf5a-c037fa8c069c.html 2-https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/between-cultures/202011/how-nature-heals 3-https://www.cambridgescholars.com/product/978-1-5275-5029-2 4-https://outdoorindustry.org/covid-19-resources-outdoor-industry/power-outdoors-covid-19/
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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Q&A
Member: Katie (Esch) Vande Berg, Delta Nu-A alumna Undergraduate degree: Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Kettering University '17
Current job title: Quality Control Chemist II at Par Pharmaceutical in Rochester, MI
Learn more about Delta Nu-A alumna, Katie (Esch) Vande Berg, and the work she’s been doing as a chemist at Par Pharmaceutical during the COVID-19 pandemic.
How has Alpha Sigma Alpha helped shape you into the person you are today?:
Tell us about your experience with Alpha Sigma Alpha: “I joined Alpha Sigma Alpha during my freshman year. From the start, I knew this was a group of women that I wanted to be a part of. During my first full year as a member, I was our vice president of alumnae & heritage and our public relations chairman. While the VP of alumnae & heritage, I was able to help in planning our chapter's 40th anniversary celebration with our Delta Nu-B counterparts. My final year as a collegiate member, I had the honor of serving as our chapter president and attending the Imagine convention in Orlando, FL. Convention was one of the highlights of my Alpha Sigma Alpha membership; being able to meet sisters from across the nation and learn different activities and abilities to bring back to my chapter. Aside from the positions I was grateful to have held, I met several of my closest friends, and have formed bonds that have lasted across time and state lines.”
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“Convention was one of the highlights of my Alpha Sigma Alpha membership; being able to meet sisters from across the nation and learn different activities and abilities to bring back to my chapter. Aside from the positions I was grateful to have held, I met several of my closest friends, and have formed bonds that have lasted across time and state lines.”
“Alpha Sigma Alpha gave me the tools I needed to excel as a leader in my job. Being a part of a small chapter - at our largest, we had 28 members - we had plenty of opportunities to take on leadership roles early on in our membership. Taking on the role of president allowed me to find my own leadership style and learn valuable skills that I have carried with me into my professional career.”
Briefly explain the work that you do: “I work as a Quality Control Chemist at Par Pharmaceutical. Our plant focuses on sterile injectables, and I specifically focus on the materials that go into our final products. I schedule the material testing out to a small team consisting of myself and two others, and the three of us perform all of the tests associated with each material before releasing it for use in our final products. We perform a wide breadth of tests that make sure each material we use has the right amount of the chemicals needed, and that each material is low in harmful and non-harmful impurities. Every material that goes into our products goes through our team, ensuring that it is of the highest quality before being added into its final state.”
What made you interested in pursuing this type of work?: “As a student at Kettering University, I had an internship at another pharmaceutical company in Michigan where I worked with the detergents that cleaned the equipment used in manufacturing their final products. This gave me exposure into the workings of a pharmaceutical lab, helping me to gain confidence there. Pharmaceutical labs require high attention to detail on a day-to-day basis, and I found that I thrived in this type of environment. I knew coming out of Kettering that I wanted to stay in pharmaceuticals because of the attention to detail required, and the constant, fast-paced atmosphere."
their health. Indirectly, I know that I am a crucial part of a lot of people's healthcare, and that is so rewarding to me at the end of the day.”
What has been your biggest accomplishment so far?: “To date, I am proud of myself for taking on the lead position in our materials group. It has been very rewarding to be able to oversee a specific area of our larger chemical testing group. I have become a main point of contact for my colleagues in the lab for technical questions, and as a contact point when management is unavailable. I have been trained on most of the technologies in our lab, and am proud of my role as a ‘jack of all trades’. It definitely makes each day different than the last! In the future, I hope to take on a management role in the lab with more ability to help those in my group grow in their own abilities.”
How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected your job with working in pharmaceuticals?:
What is your favorite part about your job?: “The group that I work with is a great group. We function like a family and everyone is very helpful. I also enjoy feeling like I make a difference in people's lives. As a part of the ‘behind the scenes’ workings of healthcare, I know that the materials I work on will go towards products that will help people regain
“Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, work has stayed consistently busy. We have had several changes in shifts worked, but we have been back in the lab-full time since mid-summer 2020. Several of our products have been used to help those who were hospitalized with COVID-19 and we have been working with Novavax on a potential COVID-19 vaccine. The materials-side of our lab work has been focused largely on supporting these in-demand products to ensure that we have the materials we need to continue to get these products to those who need them most.
“It is an honor to be recognized for the work we are doing. Often the behind the scenes workers in healthcare aren't the main topic of the news. It is humbling to be able to share what we do, especially since it may have a potential impact on this huge moment of our history. So many people in a variety of different fields are critical in the fight against COVID-19, and it is awesome to be recognized as one. Thank you to all who are helping in this fight. Stay safe and remember to spread kindness in this unsure world.”
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CHAPTER NEWS
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2 1. Beta Beta, University of Northern Colorado Collegiate and alumnae members gathered virtually to celebrate the chapter’s founding day.
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3 2. Denver Alumnae Chapter Members of the Denver Alumnae Chapter volunteer at their local philanthropy, Newborns in Need. Members spent their time packaging take-home bags for new mothers, sorting items that were donated and wrapping up blankets.
3. Delta Sigma, Saginaw Valley State University, MI Members Anne Harris and Stephanie Lane celebrate International Badge day
4
5 4. Gamma Chi, Bryant University, RI Members Sandra Salamanca, Cathryn Johnson, Nicole Politano and Sydney Stewart at the chapter Sneaker Soiree event where they raised money in support of Girls on the Run Rhode Island.
6 5. Chicago West Alumnae Chapter Members of the Chicago West Alumnae chapter gather virtually for a chapter meeting.
6. Flagler College Emerging Chapter, FL Carolyn Smith, Baylee Zimmerman and Allison Kindley celebrate bid day with the emerging chapter at Flagler College. The chapter was installed as Iota Lambda on March 27, 2021.
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CHAPTER NEWS
8
7
9
7. Theta Omega, University of New Haven, CT
8. Gamma Iota, Rochester Institute of Technology, NY
9. Iota Gamma, Ramapo College of New Jersey
Chapter members gather to celebrate the five-year anniversary of the Theta Omega Chapter.
Members Violet Young and Kiley Gallant pose after volunteering during a landscaping service event at Mount Hope Cemetery in Rochester, NY.
Chapter members gather virtually for formal recruitment.
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10
11
12
10. Chicago Metro Alumnae Chapter
11. Theta Eta, Rogers State University, OK
12. Theta Omicron, University of Missouri- Kansas City
Chicago Metro alumnae members gather to attend at the Elmhurst Historical Museum to view the Frank Lloyd Wright exhibit together
Kloie Clegg, Duda Mota, Tayah Holmes, Hannah Smoot volunteer at a 5K benefiting infant and fetal loss.
Members Julia Hernandez and Gabby Stansell during the chapter’s recruitment efforts.
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FROM THE ARCHIVES S T R AT E G I C G O A L A R E A
EXEMPLIFY
ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA ARCHIVES The 1936 Convention was held August 17-21 in Pequot, Minnesota at the Breezy Point Lodge. Convention attendees Freda Winters, TT; National Treasurer Polly Scholsser, BB; Marguerite Riley, TT and Kate Parsons, TT enjoyed the outdoors on Big Pelican Lake. On the way home from that convention, Tau Tau alumnae Marvella Schridde, Kate Parsons and Freda Winters stopped to find dominant beauty in nature at Kakabeka Falls in Ontario, Canada. Pictures taken from the Hays, KS Alumnae Chapter Scrapbook 1932-37.
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FROM THE FOUNDATION
The Foundation recognizes members who include the Foundation in their estate plans through the Wilma Wilson Sharp Society. These donors provide for the future of Alpha Sigma Alpha by including the Foundation as a beneficiary of their wills, life insurance policies, retirement plans or testamentary trust and annuities. The 2021 tax year includes additional tax incentives for estate gifts, so please contact your financial advisor to learn more about these opportunities tied to the CARES Act and COVID relief bill. If you have not yet let the Foundation know you have named it in your estate plans, please contact fndstaff@alphasigmaalpha.org about the Wilma Wilson Sharp Society. Wilma Wilson Sharp
There have been five members that we have lost in the past few years who have included the Foundation in their estate plans. These women have made an impact greater than they anticipated.
Their estate gifts supported 27 programs and services that impacted every collegiate chapter and more than 2,700 alumnae. These five Wilma Wilson Sharp Society women also made a difference through scholarships and member assistance fund gifts. Thank you to all current Wilma Wilson Sharp Society members for planning to leave a legacy that impacts generations to come.
2021 TAX NOTE The 2021 tax year presents an opportunity for $300 in charitable deductions whether you itemize your deductions or not. For those married filing jointly, there is a $600 charitable deduction available.
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9002 Vincennes Circle | Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018
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