The Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Summer 2023

FROM THE NATIONAL PRESIDENT

Late summer always brings memories of work week, which is now often referred to as spirit week, but for my chapter in the early 2000s, work week was an accurate description. My chapter sisters and I prepared for fully structured recruitment (formal rush) by practicing welcoming potential new members, our songs, conversations and all the things that go along with primary (formal) recruitment. We also planted flowers, cleaned the chapter house top to bottom and polished silver, which I always signed up for because August in Kansas is hot and you could polish the silver in front of the air-conditioning vent! I didn’t join Alpha Sigma Alpha through fully structured recruitment, I joined the spring semester of my freshman year through continuous open bidding (COB), but I have always loved recruitment and that’s because we had so much fun during work week. The long days with my sisters focused on sharing our sisterhood with potential new members will forever be some of my favorite memories and, honestly, the memories my chapter sisters and I laugh about the most. Those days together were special because it was just us finding ways to share the joys of our Alpha Sigma Alpha sisterhood with others.

Thinking back on when I joined, I didn’t understand the meaning behind lifetime membership. I didn’t know the Greek alphabet or even what Alana (chapter president at the time) meant when she extended me a bid. “Bid” was not a word I had used before. I am sure I am not alone in sharing that when I became a new member, I was not thinking about the lifelong friendships, experiences or opportunities Alpha Sigma Alpha would provide. I was thinking about all the Alpha Sigma Alphas across my college campus who held leadership positions and how I wanted to connect with them. Admittedly, I was focused on the immediate possibilities. Also, similar to many of you, those friendships and experiences transformed my collegiate experience by giving me a space to find my confidence, garner leadership experiences, gain access to various university programs and participate in all the campus activities!

When you first joined, whether in college or later in life, did you realize how much fun the sorority would be as an alumna? I know I wouldn't have believed that my alumnae experience would be even better than my time as a collegian. My friendships and network span across the country. Alpha Sigma Alphas continue to bring me to tears of laughter late into the night, especially at national convention. They supported me when I needed a little extra TLC, provided me advice as a first time mother and assisted me as I sought out new professional and personal roles. There have been so many Alpha Sigma Alphas who have modeled how to be an active alumna, how to mentor and how to live life joyously.. They inspire me and demonstrate lifetime membership. They bring an energy that feels like the sorority is giving me a hug. I hope that we each receive that feeling and can share that Alpha Sigma Alpha sisterhood with current and future sisters.

So, as you prepare for a new school year, think about the agape love of Alpha Sigma Alpha and encourage others to join our lifetime sisterhood. Help family friends connect with an Alpha Sigma Alpha chapter and submit a referral on our new website and share your favorite stories! Our experiences will inspire future members and enrich our sisterhood.

ALAM, AMBER SHAVERDI HUSTON, HH NATIONAL PRESIDENT @ASAHUSTON

Phoenix features

How has Alpha Sigma Alpha prepared you for life after graduation?

"Alpha Sigma Alpha prepared me for life after graduation by giving me opportunities for growth and leadership that will follow me into my career! My experiences in Alpha Sigma Alpha have allowed me to become a confident individual who is not afraid to take a leap. It has given me a forever support system and everlasting personal and professional relationships. I have enjoyed every moment of being in the Zeta Zeta Chapter and am forever grateful that I joined.”

"Alpha Sigma Alpha has helped me in many ways to prepare for life after graduation. It has given me the opportunity to meet new people and make connections that I will be able to use after graduation. I have formed relationships with sisters in my chapter as well as sisters in other chapters near and far. These relationships gave me access to resources whenever the time arose. AΣA has also helped me gain leadership skills that I am able to use in my work life. Being chapter president helped me become a leader I didn’t think I could be. It helped me develop leadership skills I lacked and now can use in my life after graduation. Most importantly Alpha Sigma Alpha prepared me to be a woman of poise and purpose and how to take on life in a new way! "

Keiasiah Mozee, ZZ

Alexis Matute, Θ P

FROM THE EDITOR

Dear readers,

When I joined Alpha Sigma Alpha just weeks after stepping foot on campus, I didn’t give much thought to what my membership would look like as an alumna. Like many other sorority women, I joined looking for a place I could be myself with other women who made me feel at home. While I found that and so much more, there is one memory that sticks in my mind; I was at the mall with a few chapter sisters wearing a shirt proudly displaying Alpha Sigma Alpha’s letters. While I was walking, a woman stopped me and excitedly said, “I was an AΣA in college!” At the time, I was excited to meet a fellow sister. As I got closer to graduation and eventually started my career promoting the lifelong benefits of joining a sorority, that interaction replayed in my mind as I heard more and more women from all sororities say, “I was in a sorority.”

In college, many of us proudly say “It isn’t for four years, it is for life,” but when we graduate we switch our language to saying, “I was in a sorority.” Our benefits of membership do not end on graduation day, just as our commitments do not end. We pledged to give ourselves freely to Alpha Sigma Alpha and in turn, the Sorority would do the same.

Through my role working at national headquarters and in my conversations with other National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) sorority women, I have seen firsthand the power of a lifelong sisterhood. I have seen members rally for a sister whom they have never met when her house tragically burned down.

I have seen a group of women in their 70's share how their sisters have been by their side since they joined a sorority. I have seen dedicated volunteers mentor young women and help them find a foothold in their career. It is these acts of sisterhood that have reinforced the need to welcome as many women as possible into this transformative supportive experience. All of these things and more make me more than proud to be a lifelong member.

I hope the next time someone mentions the sorority experience, you will proudly tell them, “I AM an Alpha Sigma Alpha.”

In Agape Love, Alyssa Miles

ALYSSA HUTCHINSON MILES, ΘZ DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING

Volume 109 | Issue 2

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.

EDITOR

Alyssa Miles, Director of Communications & Marketing

DEADLINES

Fall June 10

Winter Sept. 10

Spring Dec. 10 NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS 9002 Vincennes Circle Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018 Phone: (317) 871-2920

Fax: (317) 871-2924 Email: AΣA@AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

THE ACADEMY

Alpha Sigma Alpha is excited to announce the in-person Academy events during the fall of 2023. The Academy is Alpha Sigma Alpha’s regional conference dedicated to providing collegiate members with opportunities for personal and professional development. Events will be held in four different cities in the fall of 2023. Collegiate chapters will be pre-assigned an Academy location. Location information, dates and other details are available on the Alpha Sigma Alpha website. Collegiate officers and volunteers from all regions will have additional virtual chapter operations training available this fall. Please be sure to check your

SAVE THE DATES:

Oct. 14 | Hartford, CT

Oct. 28 | Kansas City, MO

Nov. 11 | Chicago, IL

Nov. 18 | Philadelphia, PA

FRATERNITY COMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATION CELEBRATES CENTENNIAL

On May 2 – 4, the Fraternity Communications Association (FCA) hosted its annual conference and celebrated its centennial anniversary. FCA is a professional association composed of fraternities and sororities, affiliates and associate partners. Alpha Sigma Alpha is a proud member of the association and was in attendance. Nancy Zander Reese, BY, a past FCA president, joined other Alpha Sigma Alpha members and past FCA presidents for the historic event.

PHOENIX NOW PRINTING TWICE A YEAR

Alpha Sigma Alpha's Phoenix is going green! While the magazine will still be published quarterly, only two issues will be printed and mailed. The other two issues will be emailed to all members with an up-to-date email address. This change will have a positive influence on the environment while also reallocating funds to better support our members.

ONLY WANT A DIGITAL ISSUE?

You can now sign up to only receive a digital copy of the Phoenix sent directly to your inbox. You will be among the first to read the issue before it lands in mailboxes. Opt into digital-only by scanning the QR Code with your mobile device. Having issues? Email ASA@AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

The Alpha Sigma Alpha Alumnae Book Club is a great way to connect with sisters who share the love of reading. To participate, members must request to join the “Alpha Sigma Alpha alumnae Book Club” Facebook group.

The book club includes four book selections with discussion each year. All discussions take place live on Zoom with the questions being available prior to the discussions.

Aug. 2023:

Small Great Things

by Jodi Picoult

Discussion:

Wednesday, Aug. 2 at 8 p.m. ET

Nov. 2023:

Dressmakers of Auschwitz

by Lucy Adlington

Discussion:

Wednesday, Nov. 1 at 8 p.m. ET

Advancing the Sorority Experience Together

WRITTEN IN FIRST PERSON BY: AMBER SHAVERDI HUSTON, HH

This past spring, I had the opportunity to represent Alpha Sigma Alpha at a handful of interfraternal events: Sigma Sigma Sigma’s 125th anniversary celebration at Longwood University, the (inter)national presidents’ meeting and the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) Council of Delegates meeting. I am honored to represent the sorority and share the common bonds of the sorority experience with our fellow Panhellenic sisters. The time together with strong, intelligent, driven, solution-oriented women who are all committed to the

future of sorority membership fuels me with ideas and energy.

While traveling to these events & meetings, I was reflecting on the power of the sorority experience and the magnitude of the impact the 26 NPC member organization founders have imprinted on society. At a time when education was inaccessible to most women, the Founders of Alpha Sigma Alpha, as well as our peer sororities, had the vision to create fraternal organizations that provided a space for women to empower each other’s

educational aspirations and a platform for women’s rights, civic engagement and overall personal development. I am in awe! I wish I could travel back in time and listen to the conversations, but since I can’t, I live out their ideas, their vision.

During the national presidents' meeting, 26 presidents came together to discuss openly the roadblocks sorority are facing. We all seek to bring our organizations' visions to life, strategize to make membership more accessible and prioritize how this group of leaders will focus our energy. Working alongside the other national presidents is truly a gift; we learn from each other, share tactics and ideas, tackle local & national concerns and provide guidance to the NPC.

The peak moment of the spring was the NPC Council of Delegates meeting, which was a culmination of months of work. The spring meeting differs from the fall meeting which includes educational sessions and speakers. The

Newly elected NPC Chair, Kelly McGinnis Beck, EK and Alpha Sigma Alpha Exectutive Director Krystal Slivinski, ΓP.

spring meeting is solely focused on conference business. The State of the Conference from the NPC Chair is shared, a financial report is provided, votes occur on legislation and the Board of Directors is elected. This year, there were 43 pieces of legislation, which is more than prior years. Of those 43 pieces of legislation, Alpha Sigma Alpha cosponsored eight. Prior to the meeting, I spent months with a handful of NPC peer organizations to research, write and engage fellow delegates in the process. All eight pieces of legislation were focused on membership and I am incredibly proud to share that six of the eight passed. I

am already working with some delegates for the fall legislative process, which of course, will continue to be focused on membership.

The meeting also held a historic moment for Alpha Sigma Alpha, the Conference elected the 2023-25 Board of Directors and Kelly McGinnis Beck, EK, was elected to serve as NPC Chair. Kelly is the second Alpha Sigma Alpha to serve as NPC Chair. Kelly will lead the Conference with vigor and with an eye on the future. Each of these moments reminded me of the strength, determination and leadership we as sorority women have within us.

The relationships we have with our peers will help us locally and nationally as we plan for Alpha Sigma Alpha’s future.

May we as sorority women continue to uplift, elevate and empower women!

NPC CEO Dani Weatherford joinedby newly elected NPC Chair, Kelly McGinnis Beck, EK and Alpha Sigma Alpha Exectutive Director Krystal Slivinski, ΓP.

ALUMNAE dues

National Alumnae Dues are $25/year. That is $0.07/day or $2.08/month.

Alumnae dues gives alumnae an opportunity to renew your lifetime commitment to Alpha Sigma Alpha and help further the purpose of the Sorority to cultivate friendship among members who are known for their character and concern for others. Your support makes a big difference for current and future members.

Alumnae dues can be paid online at MyAΣA or by sending a check to Alpha Sigma Alpha National Headquarters – 9002 Vincennes Circle Indianapolis, IN 46268. Thank you for your support!

53RD NATIONAL CONVENTION & LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

JULY 10-13, 2024

KANSAS CITY MARRIOTT DOWNTOWN KANSAS CITY, MO

The national convention & leadership conference is Alpha Sigma Alpha’s biannual event where members gather to conduct sorority business and to celebrate a sisterhood focused on elevating women. Details can be found on AlphaSigmaAlpha.org as they become available.

Registration opens in winter 2024.

The 53rd National Convention & Leadership Conference is sponsored by a grant from the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation.

The dates and location of this event were first announced to the membership during the 52nd National Convention & Leadership Conference in July 2022.

of

Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha

Phoenix

Alpha Sigma Alpha

HOW TO STAY AUTHENTIC TO YOURSELF THROUGHOUT YOUR CAREER

WRITTEN IN FIRST PERSON BY: DANIELLE MCCOMBS, ΔI

As a professional life coach, I work with women in all different stages of their career. They may be looking to make a big change and pivoting to something completely new or they may be seeking ways to feel more aligned with their current career or position. In any case, the process to decide the next step to take is the same, they must find their authentic self.

Being authentic means being true to one’s own personality, spirit or character. To live an authentic life we have to do the hard work of getting to truly know ourselves, not just the person we think everyone wants us to be. When our words, actions and behaviors consistently match our identity we are being authentic.

Uncovering your authentic self can take time and work, but leads to a much more fulfilling life.

If you are a recent graduate or early in your career using these tools is a great way to start your journey. I wish I understood the importance of understanding myself before starting my career. If you are later in your career and have not even thought of your relationship to work in these terms, no need to worry, it is never too late to find ways to show up in alignment with your authentic self.

CORE VALUES

The first step to finding your authentic self is to identify your core values. Core values are beliefs that we have and they

are so important to us that we live our life according to them. Taking time to identify what your core values are is an important activity. Your values can provide clarity when making important decisions and guide the direction you want your life to take and give insights to what matters most to you.

Throughout our lives our core values will change. At each stage of life we will have different priorities. As we learn, grow and have different experiences, we will change, as will the values that govern our life.

Identifying and understanding your core values can allow you to be more intentional with the direction and development of your career. When working in alignment with your core values your work will be much more satisfying and meaningful.

I recommend taking stock every one to three years to see if and how your values have changed and update the way you are making decisions. You can find a guide to identify your core values through my podcast, The Opposite of Small Talk, for free at www.theoppositeofsmalltalk.com/ corevalues.

Core values are crucial to knowing if we are living in alignment. When a core value is not being respected, you are going to feel off. There might be friction or tension with another person that is violating your values. Be aware of your emotions, when you feel irritated, annoyed or agitated as it can be an indication that your values are not being honored. If there are elements to your job or career that are at odds with your core values, it will make doing your job very difficult and stressful.

It is important to note that making a career change if your core values change is always an option. It can seem daunting and overwhelming, maybe even impossible, but that all comes from our own limiting beliefs that are self imposed.

Take it from someone who made a complete career change after 20 years in the same industry, if we can get past our own blocks, anything is possible.

SUPERPOWERS

Now that we understand our core values we can reflect on our superpowers. Everyone has superpowers! Superpowers are the things that you do well, that come to you easily but someone else would see as something that is incredible and wonder, “WOW! How does she do it?”

We often cannot see our own superpowers and we may even diminish them because they just come to us easily so we think, no big deal, everyone must be able to do that if I can. The true use of your superpowers can bring a level of joy and ease to your career and everyday life.

To identify your superpowers, interview people in your life, friends, family, classmates, work

colleagues. Ask them, what is something that I do that you think is miraculous? Something that makes you say “How does she do it?” This might seem a bit awkward, but I promise that it is incredibly insightful and beneficial. Understanding how the people who know you best see you can provide clarity about yourself and confidence in how you show up.

WHAT LIGHTS YOU UP?

Take note of the things that when you are doing them you feel like you lose time, you look up and realize that hours have passed but you were so engrossed you didn’t notice. Another way to think about it, what are the things that don’t make you look at your phone? Is it getting lost in a spreadsheet? Having a meaningful conversation? Is it creating something with your hands? Writing?

Finding something you are passionate about and get lost in is very powerful and can bring great purpose and meaning to your life.

Regularly making time to evaluate yourself and your career is imperative to being authentic. At each stage of your career be mindful of the choices you are making; being reflective can help keep you in alignment with yourself or take corrective action when necessary.

EARLY CAREER

Starting out in the “real world” can be a very scary thing. We are set off on our own to make decisions and support ourselves for maybe the first time. The choices of what to do can be overwhelming, all of a sudden the path that we are on has become a lot more complex to navigate.

Some important questions to ask yourself are: What are your priorities? What are the contributions that you want to make? What do you want to learn? What are the boundaries you want to hold for yourself?

MID CAREER

Now you have a lot more information about you, about what it means to have a career and how you want your life to look. For many women this is the time where you become a mother. Having a family cannot be something that is put in a silo, you will have to make adjustments to the way that you spend your time and the expectations that you have for yourself. Are there adjustments or changes to be made so that your career is more in alignment for what your current life looks like?

How do you want to use your experience? What are the contributions that you want to make? What is the impact you want to have? How have your priorities changed? Have you made adjustments to your goals and expectations?

LATE CAREER

As you come toward the end of your career you have more perspective and experience about who you are, how you work and what you want. What are the most pressing priorities that you have now? Are you able to reap the benefits of the hard work of your earlier career? Is there a legacy you want to leave behind as a part of your career? What does that look like? Do you want to leave your career with an exclamation point!! Or is a period just fine?

RETIREMENT

The day you retire is not the time to start planning what your retirement is going to look like. Reevaluating your core values prior to this change is crucial. In many cases people are looking ahead to retirement as the holy grail, the payoff for your many years of hard work. Being intentional about how you want to spend this very well earned time is just as important as what you do when you decide to take a job. Do you want to travel, volunteer, spend time with family and friends? You will have new found freedom, but that can turn out to be daunting for some

without putting real thought and intention of what is important to you and how to spend your time.

Throughout your career you should be reevaluating your core values, superpowers and what lights you up every few years. We will develop new superpowers and passions. Recognize that our careers have the ability to change as we grow. One might come before the other, a career change can lead to immense personal growth, or personal growth may lead to wanting a change in your career.

Remember that it is ok for goals to change based on the way that your life changes. We do not live a life in a straight line, the path we are on is always evolving and we need to make sure that we are navigating it from our most authentic selves.

Give yourself grace as you navigate the different stages of your life and career, they all come with a learning curve which EVERYONE experiences. Have patience and know if you are showing up authentically as yourself, being true to your core values, using your superpowers and focusing on what lights you up everything else will fall into place.

Do you want to Live Life With Intention?

Danielle believes that everyone is naturally creative, resourceful and whole. External expectations that are put upon us by society and others can dim the light within us. The world needs everyone to show up as the truest version of themselves. As a coach, Danielle holds space for her clients to explore themselves and how they show up in the world. By following curiosity and intuition she guides clients to live a life with intention.

She is a growth minded individual that is constantly striving to improve herself and deepen the understanding of the world around her.

After a 20 year career in commercial real estate Danielle decided to pursue her passion of inspiring others to be the best version of themselves. Danielle is a Co-Active Professional Certified Coach and has started her own Life Coaching practice, Danielle McCombs Coaching.

Danielle hosts the podcast "The Opposite of Small Talk", with her friend Kristy Olinger where they explore topics about personal and professional development focusing on connection, reflection and social justice.

Danielle holds a Masters of Real Estate from the Schack Institute of New York University and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Delaware where she was a proud member of Alpha Sigma Alpha, Delta Iota.

A native New Yorker who relocated to San Francisco in 2016 spends her free time traveling, listening to podcasts while on long walks, enjoying live music & comedy shows, or curling up with a good book or TV show with her cat Moira.

If you are interested in exploring how you could benefit from coaching please book a complimentary session with Danielle on her website www.daniellemccombs.com

DANIELLE MCCOMBS, ΔI Danielle McCombs Coaching

&elevate influence

Sarah Elizabeth Rosenberg, ZΣ

I can still remember my first day of college, a nervous freshman walking around to find my class. I did not know anyone on campus. Sure, I had heard of some people, but I did not know anyone personally. Growing up, my uncle always told me that once I went to college, I should join a sorority because he knew I would find lifelong friends within my chapter. While being that nervous freshman, I went through recruitment and I found my lifelong sisters at the Zeta Sigma Chapter of Alpha Sigma Alpha.

I will be the first to admit my time in AΣA was not perfect, but I gained so many skills that I struggled with my whole life.

1. I struggled to build relationships. While having mentors through your chapter (and Big/Little) is a start, you must cultivate friendships to continue to grow. I started to talk to other members at different events to find my future besties.

2. I had held leadership positions in high school but nothing like the responsibilities of a sorority leader. I started my tenure as the Vice President of PR & Recruitment while also holding various chairman positions along the way. I used my advisors as a resource to guide me through this new world. P.S, special shoutout to Alyssa Alleyn Panozzo. She made the transition from a new member to the executive board seamless and easy for me.

Since graduating, I have used the drive and skills I found in Alpha Sigma Alpha to guide me into a major career change from teaching to corporate instructional design. I currently work for the Texas Rural Water Association, where I build online learning courses for regulatory certification within the water/wastewater field. These courses are vital to those who work in rural Texas water because it allows them to follow the regulations so everyone in Texas (regardless of income or area) has safe drinking water. Promoting equality for all, in all aspects of life, is one of the important core values I live out.

My goal while building these materials for learners is to create a fun, inviting and informative adventure. Some ways I complete this are by using graphic design skills and creating fun activities. These skills were fostered during my time as a chapter officer in AΣA. Creating professional and beautiful materials for recruitment was one way to engage potential new members in our process. While the activities I create now are vastly different than those during my time as a chapter officer, creating those activities allowed me to think outside of the box, which has been the skill I covet the most.

Outside of work, I volunteer with the Junior League of Austin. For those unfamiliar with Junior League, it is “an organization of women whose mission is to advance women's leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration and training.” There are chapters all over the world. After graduating college, I found I struggled with continuing to serve my community. While in AΣA, there are required volunteer times, but once you graduate, sometimes you may tell yourself you have time, but then life happens, and it becomes a struggle to schedule time. With Junior League, I have that structure to allow myself to set aside time to volunteer and give back to my communities. Specifically, I love serving children, and my chapter has a specific focus on children.

In my chapter, we have several signature programs that I have been able to participate in that directly benefit the children of the Austin, TX community. During my first year (similar to the new member semester), I spent more than 30 hours volunteering with our Food in Tummies program, where we made weekend food bags for students who struggled to find food over the weekends.

I am beginning my first active year in the League, where I have been chosen to volunteer within the league (as opposed to an outside partner) as the A Christmas Affair public relations co-chair. There is a significant overlap between what I do now versus my role as a chapter officer within AΣA. Without my experience within AΣA, I would have never felt comfortable moving into such a position during my first active year.

Within this sorority I have found my best friends for life. I have seen them all go through major life changes since we graduated, and being able to support them and stand up for them at the biggest moments of their life is a gift I will treasure for the rest of my life. Recently, my best friend, Sierra Stewart, got engaged, and I was able to be part of the planning process and the actual proposal (I hid in a bush to take photos). One sister, Mila Kelly-Kilgore, has moved for school/jobs, and we are still as close as ever. I saw Taylor Swift with another sister, Nancy Benet. Even one sister, Miranda Rodriguez, whom I knew in high school and lost touch with, was allowed to reconnect because of AΣA. I hold all the friendships I made close to my heart, which I will be forever grateful for.

While my experience was not what I expected going into college, being a sorority woman, and an Alpha Sigma Alpha, has changed me and made me grow as a woman of integrity and strength who will continue to strive to share our message of elevating the influence of women in our world.

"I hold all the friendships I made close to my heart, which I will be forever grateful for."

Alpha Sigma Alpha's vision is to elevate the influence of women in the world. In each issue of the Phoenix Magazine, members will be featured who are living Alpha Sigma Alpha's vision, purpose and values in their everyday lives.

lifetime

THE TRANSITION

JANET CROOK CONROY, BΠ

In 1984 I started my junior year at Concord College (now Concord University), and the following spring I decided to go through continuous open bidding and Alpha Sigma Alpha won me over. They were a small group of wellrounded sisters, involved in school government, sports and had high GPA’s. At that point we were called a pledge class, my pledge class had 6 members. Things have changed but I remember having my pledge book and you had to have each member sign off on two visits. This was a great way to meet everyone, I still have my pledge book today. All of this was before email and social media so we really didn’t know about the opportunities with the national organization, at least I thought it was just four years and you received the Phoenix.

After graduation I became a flight attendant and moved to New York City for a few years then moved to Boston and saw that there was an alumnae chapter. They were meeting for lunch in Copley Square. As I walk in I see a table with ladies many years older than me, they happen to be mostly from the Boston University, Theta Theta Chapter. I showed up to a few more meetings and each time they had fewer ladies, until it was just a few active alumnae left. The one member that will always stand out is Mary McGuire, as most of the members moved out of state or into nursing homes, we were left to keep the chapter going. We worked hard to recruit sisters who were in the Boston area, or just moving there to attend grad school. Finally, we started growing and for 30 years I was part of the sisters that brought us into our 100th Anniversary Celebration.

A few months before the Boston Alumnae 100th, I moved back to my hometown in West Virginia. At that point, Beta Pi at Concord University was on financial probation and membership was down. They were on the verge of closure, we couldn’t let that happen. I volunteered to become their advisor and we jumped into action and got the word out to Beta Pi alumnae and they came to the rescue. We pulled it together and celebrated Beta Pi’s 75th Anniversary during 2022 homecoming. The chapter now has a full panel of advisors and membership is growing. They are thriving and I can’t wait until the 100th anniversary.

However, I missed my Boston alumnae chapter so I decided to start an alumnae Chapter in Beckley, WV. I wasn’t sure how it would go, but as it turned out there was more interest then I could have imagined. Instead of just Beckley, it became a chapter for all of Southern West Virginia. We started AΣA Country Roads West Virginia Alumnae Chapter with 30 dues paying members our first year and have events throughout the southern part of West Virginia. It has been so fun meeting sisters in the area and supporting Beta Pi, we have so many cool connections.

On a national level, I went to my first National Convention in 1984, I think I have only missed one and that was due to the birth of my son. Attending convention, I met the most amazing women across the nation and have become lifelong friends. As a volunteer for AΣA, I have learned so many things that spill over into my professional life. Things such as leadership skills, being diplomatic and just showing up. I have volunteered in a number of positions and didn’t think it was noticed until this past summer when I became the recipient of the Helen L. Corey Award. That has been the highlight of my sorority life and lifetime membership. I wouldn’t be who I am today without Alpha Sigma Alpha.

membership

FROM COLLEGIAN TO ALUMNA

JULIE WILEY RAMSEY, A

It’s more than a house, a badge or pin, a set of letters, or a secret handshake––it’s something you feel––difficult to describe in words, but an incredible experience. When non-members think of sorority life, they think of tangible objects; when sorority women look back–– it’s people, relationships and memories they truly cherish.

I always think back to 1990 and signing my bid card––dismissing the events that would happen later that day and that semester––and how that one decision changed the trajectory of my life in so many ways and eventually the life of my daughter, Madison. I think often: who would be my closest friends today if I had joined a different sorority and would I still choose to volunteer and remain engaged?

I remember meeting Suzanne Kilgannon at the Leadership Development Institute in 1991 at the University of Delaware. It was the first “national” event I had attended and was very excited that everyone knew where Longwood College was located. Suzanne was promoting the chapter consultant position with National Headquarters for collegiate members after graduation. I left LDI with a new purpose: I needed experiences to ensure that I became an AΣA chapter consultant.

Before serving on National Council, my favorite volunteer role was district facilitator (now region facilitator). I enjoyed working with the collegiate women in Virginia and West Virginia to challenge and encourage them and help make Alpha Sigma Alpha a terrific experience for them. Then the most unique and humbling volunteer experience was serving on National Council. I was blessed to serve with some of my dearest friends and though we came from different chapters and backgrounds, we spent a lot of time together and developed a deep-rooted sisterhood of our own.

My AΣA memories span over 30 years, but the ones that seem to drift to the top as my best always involve sharing the AΣA experience with another person. The first one is initiating my mother, Martha Wiley, EH, during the Richmond convention in 2000. The second one is the day my daughter Madison received her bid from the Alpha Chapter at Longwood University. The final one is the day Madison got initiated and my friend Kelly Beck, EK, drove to Farmville to join me at the Sanctuary Degree Service. I am so thankful that I get to share this amazing organization with my mom & daughter for the remainder of our lives.

I cannot begin to tell you how many sisters have positively impacted my life in one way or another, and if I was given the space, I could personally fill this entire magazine listing them all by name and recounting the vast and integral role they’ve played in my life. I think about my chapter sisters and all that we have been through together––weddings, births, vacations, girls’ weekends, graduations, illnesses, divorces, the deaths of our parents and unfortunately, a few children. AΣA Sisters are a support team like no other – in both good times and bad.

None of us truly knew what we all signed up for when we signed our bid cards, but I know I would not want to have experienced it with anyone but you all in Alpha Sigma Alpha.

AΣA’s open motto

One of AΣA’s Philanthropic partners whose mission is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

Core Value: _______ to build strong bonds of friendship

Core Value: _______ to expand my mind

The jewel associated with the Phoenix Degree Service

One of AΣA’s Philanthropic partners where members often volunteer at 5k events, serve as program coaches and raise funds to support the organization.

Core Value: _______ to live a well-rounded life

AΣA’s open motto

Core Value: _______ to love life and joyously live

The school that Alpha Sigma Alpha was founded is ___________ University

Core Value: _______ to give of myself

The jewel associated with the Sanctuary Degree Service

Core Value: _______ to display personal commitment and accountability

Core Value: _______ to seek continual development

Core Value: _______ to have strong moral principles

Down: Across:

The author of AΣA’s creed

The name of our current National President

Key:

FROM THE archives

Prior to the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) governance structure change in 2019, the NPC chairman position was placed by rotation. All NPC organizations had the opportunity for a member to rotate into the chairman role every 52 years.

In 1985, Sidney Gremillion Allen, ΨΨ, rotated into the NPC chairmanship and served as chairman for the 1985-87 term. Sidney is pictured here with the 1985-87 executive committee of Veachey Bloom, Phi Sigma Sigma (left) and Beth Saul, Alpha Epsilon Phi (right).

In Memoriam

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

LET GOD KEEP WATCH BETWEEN YOU AND ME SO NEVER FEAR HE HOLDS YOUR HAND, HE HOLDS MINE AND KEEP US NEAR.

I SEEM SOMETIMES TO SEE YOUR FACE BUT SINCE THIS MAY NOT BE I’LL LEAVE YOU TO THE CARE OF HIM WHO CARES FOR YOU AND ME.’

-MIZPAH BENEDICTION

ALPHA

Linda Clements

ALPHA ALPHA

Karen Derry Rank

Phyllis Molen Walters

ALPHA BETA

Paula Pickett McVay

Carol Sparks Dixon

Blanche Mercer Meeks

Martha Stockard

BETA BETA

Kathy Widlund Bagnall

Marti Manion Stratton

Dawn Babcock Nicholson

EPSILON EPSILON

Sally Davis Burri

ZETA ZETA

Gigi Shipwright Winston

Bridget Burgoon

ETA ETA

Denise Hamm Mott

PI PI

Pearlene Banaszak

Szcukowski

Peggy Reichel Morgan

PHI PHI

Ann Cowan Rowlette

CHI CHI

Janice Fuehrer Melfi

Judith Bailie Wynn

Jolyn GoughbWilliamson

Sally Cochrane Bradley

Velva Bere Gay

BETA GAMMA

Glenda Harbison Horton

Ruth Robertson Lester

BETA DELTA

Becky Walker Luke

Teresa Ware Marlen

BETA ZETA

Barbara Wild German

BETA ETA

Lynell Fettig Sandvick

BETA THETA

Diane Chivers Gibson

BETA IOTA

Ella Monday

BETA KAPPA

Vicki Vince Dunphy

Kathy Pecaut Traver

BETA LAMBDA

Rhonda Sanford Roberts

Jean Baker Tucker

BETA NU

Angela Powell Hawkins

Rho Chi

Kathryn Stilwell

Henderson

BETA RHO

Patricia Croak Sims

Edah Shaver Grobe

BETA SIGMA

Elizabeth Wyrsch Jennings

Kimberly Ellis

BETA UPSILON

JoAnn Barr Deer

BETA PHI

Sandra Dewitz Kohrt

BETA OMEGA

Ruth Heidemann Drozin

GAMMA EPSILON

Sharon Zak Purtell

GAMMA IOTA

Cynthia Hurley

GAMMA OMEGA

Eliza Hicks

DELTA IOTA

Donna Lovett Benge

DELTA KAPPA

Cassie Clifford

DELTA UPSILON

Erin Norman

Shae Valenzuela

ZETA GAMMA

Molly Calvert

ZETA KAPPA

Jessica Manthei

As reported to national headquarters June 1, 2022May 31, 2023

Scholarship Recipients

The Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation believes that learning should last a lifetime and our commitment to that belief is carried out through scholarships available to members pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees. Our generous donors have made an impact in the lives of sisters across the nation and helped alleviate the financial burden of obtaining a degree. Scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, leadership and service, as well as meaningful participation in Alpha Sigma Alpha and other organizational activities.

This year the Foundation awarded 24 scholarships. Congratulations to the following recipients for the 2023-24 academic year:

Amy M. Swisher Scholarship: Makieran McSherry, ΒΘ, Central Michigan University

National Philanthropic Scholarship: Ellison Jones, ΘΤ, Capital University, OH

Dr. Rosalie Messina Simari Graduate Scholarship: Caelee Lehman, ΕΕ, Emporia State University, KS

National Special Education Scholarship: Maresa Burr, ZX, Niagara University, NY

Lois V. Beers Scholarship: Kaylyn Hinkle, ΒΣ, Missouri State University

Beta Zeta Scholarship: McKenna Grimmer, ΦΦ, Northwest Missouri State University

Martha Green Dimond Graduate Scholarship: Allison Riklin, ΓΛ, Loyola University of Chicago, IL

Hilda Giraud Endowed Founders’ Memorial Scholarship: Sarah Athir, ZI, Stony Brook University, NY

Zeta Eta Scholarship: Gwenyth Hammond, ΖΗ, Rockhurst University, MO

Mary Emerson Blackstone & Grace Fultz Haworth Scholarship: Alexandra Bahm, ∆Ν−Β, Kettering University, MI

Mary Turner Gallagher Scholarship: Elena Schmidt, ΘΧ, Methodist University, NC

Suzanne Hebert Endowed Founders’ Memorial Scholarship: Alli Wilsbacher, ∆Κ, Southern Indiana University

Patti Balwanz Scholarship: Rebecca Hornberger, ΒΣ, Missouri State University

Mary Emerson Blackstone & Grace Fultz Haworth Scholarship: Kaylie McKinley, ΓΛ, Loyola University of Chicago, IL

Wilma Wilson Sharp Scholarship: Grace Buchen, ΙΗ, University of Arizona

S. June Smith Endowed Founders’ Memorial Scholarship: Emily Archacki, ΘΤ, Capital University, OH

Dr. Ann Rowlette Scholarship: Chloe Lock, ΦΦ, Northwest Missouri State University

Mary Emerson Blackstone & Grace Fultz Haworth Scholarship: Emily Redding, TΤ, Fort Hays State University, KS

Nancy A. Martin Williams Scholarship: Alyssa Griffith, ΒΣ, Missouri State University

Past Presidents’ Endowed Founders’ Memorial Scholarship: Abby Warburton, ΙΛ, Flagler College, FL

Theta Gamma Undergraduate Scholarship: Iris Denner, ΘΓ, Christopher Newport University, VA

Beta Epsilon Scholarship: Aliya Baig, ΒΕ, James Madison University, VA

Dr. Geraldine Cox Leadership Scholarship: Bella Folino, ∆Ε, Mansfield University, PA

Alpha Beta Endowed Founders’ Memorial Scholarship: Julie Russell, ΖΩ, Austin Peay State University, TN

Chapter News & Events

1. Alpha Beta, Truman State University, MO

The ladies in the Alpha Beta Chapter participated in this year’s Polar Plunge. The members were quite involved with the event by having more than 20 members plunge and raising almost $4,500 for Special Olympics.

2. Iota Gamma, Ramapo College of New Jersey

Chapter sisters participated in the annual Polar Plunge. This year the chapter members raised $3,000 dollars

3. Beta Rho, Northern Illinois University

Chapter sisters Arberita Jashari and Kyla Johnson participate in the chapter’s “Pies for RISE” fundraiser. All of the money raised went to the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation.

4. Theta Tau, Capital University, OH

Lauren White supported the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation at Theta Tau’s annual dessert auction by bidding on the highest ticketed item.

5. Zeta Mu, Missouri Western State University

Chapter sisters volunteered at the Saint Joseph REC center with parents as teachers. A few members were at the welcome desk giving instructions, while others participated in handson activities with the children. In this photo: Ella Penland, Bre Huff, Madison Frakes, Lily Taube, Alyvia Goddard and Emily Holt.

6. Eta Eta, Pittsburg State University

Chapter member, Mackenzie Masters and her mom had a lot of fun during the chapter's Mom’s Day.

7. Zeta Gamma, Gannon University, PA

This image shows all chapter members on Bid Day for spring 2023. They welcomed nine amazing women through primary recruitment and an additional nine members at a continuous open bidding event.

8. Iota Lambda, Flagler College, FL

Ten members attended The Academy in Richmond, VA. While attending the conference, they were able to meet several advisors and sisters in person that provided a true bonding experience.

9. Iota Kappa, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, GA

The chapter welcomed 12 new members during Spring 2023 recruitment and one new member holdover from the Fall 2022 semester.

10. Beta Beta, University of Northern Colorado

Sisters participated in the university's Fraternity Sorority Life event to make tie blankets and donate them to United Way.

Chapter News & Events

11. Delta Sigma, Saginaw Valley State University, MI

This past fall, the Delta Sigma Chapter teamed with Red Cross affiliates to host a blood drive at Saginaw Valley State University. In this photo: Emily Bruce, Brianna Kline, Rachel Songer-Langschwager, Erica Jeffrey and Clare McCormick.

12. Beta Lambda, University of Central Arkansas

The chapter raised more than $1,000 to help support Special Olympics and participated in the Polar Plunge while dressed up as Dot the Ladybug.

13. Epsilon Upsilon, PennWest Califormia, PA

Sisters raised money and took the plunge in support of Special Olympics.

14. Iota Theta, Columbia College, SC

The chapter encouraged people to sign a banner that read "I pledge to spread the word to end the word" while providing information about this campaign and Special Olympics.

15. Beta Epsilon, James Madison University, VA

Sisters attended the Influential Women’s Brunch.

In this photo: Kaitlyn Malyniak, Ashley Simpson and Emma Larkin.

16. Theta Upsilon, Boise State University, ID

The chapter added 13 new members during recruitment in the spring.

17. Gamma Chi, Bryant University, RI

During the university’s alumni weekend, the chapter had a tent for current members and alumnae to gather and talk about all their achievements. Many alumnae returned to celebrate this weekend.

18. Beta Sigma, Missouri State University

The chapter held a "RISE for Brunch" event where they served donuts, fruit cups and drinks to raise money for the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation.

19.Gamma Zeta, University of Arkansas

Members enjoyed many of the homecoming festivities, including their annual alumnae brunch.

20. Delta Nu-A & Delta Nu-B, Kettering University, MI Both chapters attended the Academy in Cleveland.

Chapter News & Events

21. Gamma Iota, Rochester Institute of Technology, NY

The chapter received the 2022 Chapter of Excellence Award. In this photo: Natalie Nunn, Anna Wright, Grace Buchen, Ainsley Sullivan and Bella Surano.

22. Beta Nu, Murray State University, KY

Members participated in the Western Kentucky Polar Plunge and 5K, raising $6,286.23 for Special Olympics.

23. Theta Zeta, IUPUI, IN

The chapter raised more than $6,000 during the Polar Plunge for the Special Olympics of Indiana.

24. Zeta Eta, Rockhurst University, MO

Sisters Meg Murphey, Annie Meghini, Kellan Bright, Lauren Dewitt and Anna Vobedja enjoy spending time together at their chapter house

25. Theta Sigma, Southern Connecticut State University Lily Deloma and Kara Pratt attended the Northeast Greek Leadership (NGLA) annual conference.

26. Delta Epsilon, Mansfield University, PA

Sisters Nicole Orlando and Ally Fisher are a part of the snow sports club and attended a trip to Holiday Valley.

27. Zeta Theta, Wagner College, NY Sisters had a lot of fun bonding during recruitment.

28. Tau Tau, Fort Hays State University, KS Chapter sisters had the opportunity to travel to Indianapolis, Indiana to attend the Association of Fraternal Leadership & Values (AFLV.)

29. Gamma Clio, State University of New YorkCortland

Pictured here are all of the new members that joined the chapter during spring recruitment.

30. Gamma Iota, Rochester Institute of Technology, NY Sisters attend the Polar Plunge into Lake Ontario and support members who take the plunge.

9002 Vincennes Circle | Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS

We welcome comments about this publication. Email AΣA@alphasigmaalpha.org or mail to: Editor, Alpha Sigma Alpha 9002 Vincennes Circle Indianapolis, IN 46268

badge charm and chain sold separately. *Badge charm holds plain badge only.

A CHAPTER GUARD indicates your collegiate chapter. They are available in single or double letter and three styles.

DANGLES are used for special recognition – for leadership, for academic success, activities, and to show your ΑΣΑ story. Dangles are attached to the chain that connects your badge and chapter guard. Visit HJGreek.com to view the entire collection of badges, guards and

HJGreek.com | 800.542.3728

dangles.

A.

B.

C.

D.

E.

F.*

G.

H.

I.

J.

A. Plain Badge, #0101 | B. Crown Pearl Badge, #0107 | C. Crown Diamond Badge with Synthetic Ruby Points, #0110 | D. Oval Badge Ring, #0879 | E. 18” Rope Chain, #013R | F.* Oval Pierced Badge Charm, #1939 | G. Crown Pearl Double Letter Guard, #J0600 | H. Big Sis Dangle, #0037 | I. Volunteer Dangle, #3320 | J. Alumnae Dangle, #0058

Badge,

Badge and ring sold separately.

Badges must be ordered by contacting Alpha Sigma Alpha headquarters.

Signet Logomark Ring Badgemark Charm