The Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha: Summer 2015 by Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority

HOENIX

Summer 2015 | Volume 101

page 8

YOUR HEALTH

IS YOUR JOURNEY

Where does health rank on your priority list? page 6

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A vision of the future: the 2015-18 Strategic Plan

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Newly installed Delta Gamma Chapter, West Chester University, PA, has already made an impact serving local aďŹ&#x192;liates of our national philanthropic partners. PHOTO CREDIT: SANDRIEN B. PHOTOGRAPHY

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S U M ME R 2 0 1 5 C O NTENTS

FEATURES Cover story, page 8:

Your health is your journey 6 A vision of the future: Alpha Sigma Alpha Strategic Plan 2015-18 14 District Day & Advisor Institute 2015-16 15 Welcome back Delta Gamma Chapter

D E PA R T ME N T S 4 Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s desk 5 From the president 18 District news 26 From the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation

27 Palms 30 News & events 31 From the archives 32 Woman of poise and purpose

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

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HOENIX

E DI T O R ’ S D E S K Volume 101, Number 3

Dear readers,

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

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, cherish life’s simple pleasures.

published quarterly by Alpha Sigma Alpha, 9002 Vincennes Circle, Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018. Periodicals postage paid at Indianapolis, IN, and additional mailing ofﬁces. Produced by Shelle Design Inc., www.shelledesign.com. ©Alpha Sigma Alpha Send address changes, death notices and business correspondence to the national headquarters.

Recently my 3-year-old niece lip-synced the chorus of Iggy Azalea’s “Fancy,” and her mom sent me a video of it in a text message. While her performance wasn’t quite Jimmy Fallon lip-sync battle worthy, I couldn’t help but watch it over and over again. Life’s simple pleasures.

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 Winter

Sept. 10

Spring

Dec. 10

Summer March 10 Fall

June 10

EDITOR Katie Matis Smith, DH

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Three boys under the age of 12 live in the house across from mine. Every day when I come home, they are outside playing in their back yard. They play baseball, basketball, and they just run around with each other. They tend to get in arguing matches too, which I also find entertaining. I just realized the other day how much I expect to hear them when I come home, because that day they weren’t outside. Their absence threw me off, and I missed hearing their laughing and playing. These boys remind me of my brothers and I growing up, and how we lived so much of our lives outside in our back yard (and of how much we would get on each other’s nerves). Life’s simple pleasures. When I think about the Creed of Alpha Sigma Alpha, I smile knowing that it encompasses this thought of cherishing life’s simple pleasures. To find dominant beauty in art, literature, nature and friendships… To love life and joyously live each day to its ultimate good.

Nancy I.Z. Reese, BΥ

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

This is my creed, and I hope I never miss a beat. Perhaps receiving the Phoenix magazine is one of your life’s simple pleasures. I hope you enjoy and take it all in. Enjoy!

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

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

Mizpah, Katie Matis Smith @kmatis25

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

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

criticism and praise—about this publication. Email ksmith@AlphaSigmaAlpha.org or send mail to: Editor, Alpha Sigma Alpha 9002 Vincennes Circle

HOENIX

Spring 2015 | Volume 101

page 8

IS COLLEGE

STILL WORTH IT? As tuition continues to increase, we dive into answering whether college is still worth the price tag.

page 2

Who are Alpha Sigma Alpha’s 30 under 30?

Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018 Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Spring 2015

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F R O M T HE P R ESI D ENT

B Y M E L I SSA KOC H M E RRI A M, E E | N AT I ON AL P R E S I D E N T

As a college freshman, I was poised and ready to take on Emporia State University, Kansas. My first opportunity to get involved was sorority recruitment as it began a week before the start of classes. My friends from high school were signing up so I decided to join the crowd. I was an “always joiner” and had been involved in sports and many extracurricular activities in high school. It seemed a natural fit for me and a great way to meet people. When the first day came around, I was anxious but also very excited. We met our recruitment counselors and our group than we were off for the first round of recruitment. We patiently waited outside each sorority’s room until start time, at which point the doors would open and we walked in forming a single line to women chanting sorority cheers. A member selected me and escorted me to a place where we would start talking. I talked to many women from each sorority, watched and enjoyed a quick skit about their organization, and then it would be time to travel to the next chapter. I was immediately out of my comfort zone. These women seemed to have it all together. I found myself paralyzed in the moment not wanting to say anything wrong. I participated the next few days but wasn’t myself. I was intimidated, shy and taking it all in. This experience didn’t work out the way I had hoped it would. I didn’t connect with the Alpha Sigma Alpha members, even though I felt totally aligned with them, because I was not being my authentic self. I was disappointed when I did not get an invitation to join Alpha Sigma Alpha as this was the group I could picture myself joining. However, I knew I could find other ways to be involved on campus. The next semester, my friend encouraged me to go through informal recruitment. Despite my reservations due to my previous experience, I humbly committed to giving it another try. This time around I was able to be my true self, and I received a bid from Alpha Sigma Alpha. I was so pumped to be a part of this sisterhood. It was a perfect fit! The women were able to get to know the real Melissa and see the value I could bring to the Sorority. I learned from my recruitment experiences. I had a bigger appreciation for Alpha Sigma Alpha. I valued every opportunity I was given, took on every leadership role and gave my best in every endeavor. I was more empathetic toward potential members who were quiet and focused on really getting to know them. I was different but yet still myself.

We all have moments when we feel out of our comfort zone but life provides you with continual opportunities to learn and grow. I can look back on experience after experience where I can attest to truly seeing a change in myself. It makes me think about how helpful it can be to look at the past to gain perspective on the present. How every opportunity and experience is a chance for learning even when you can’t recognize it? Sometimes you have to truly engage in opportunities to be able to grow. Have you heard this quote? “Life is a succession of lessons which must be lived to be understood.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson I think… what if I wouldn’t have gone back through recruitment? I am a stronger woman because I persevered and learned from the experience. As members of Alpha Sigma Alpha, we value lifelong learning. We learn from each experience, including our successes and failures. We are willing to share what we have learned with others. Together we can grow to be the best versions of ourselves! It’s only the beginning for all of us in our journey of learning.

In Alpha Sigma Alpha, Melissa Koch Merriam, EE National President

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

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S TRAT EGI C P L A N

BY KIM BENSON, DN-B, VICE PRESIDENT OF COMMUNICATIONS

A vision of the future: Alpha Sigma Alpha’s Strategic Plan 2015-18

ational council is pleased to present Alpha Sigma Alpha’s 2015-18 Strategic Plan. Our strategic vision is determined by the elected leaders of the Sorority and is based on the Sorority’s mission, purpose, core values and vision statement.

The Alpha Sigma Alpha strategic plan serves as a blueprint for the organization and reinforces the purpose of our organization. As part of the governance role, national council uses an ongoing, three year strategic planning model. A strategic plan is critical to the success of our organization to ensure we are communicating the vision for the future and allows for the planning and allocation of the resources to achieve the strategies and objectives.

Cultivation

We will cultivate an environment that promotes educated, healthy and responsible women. Emphasize healthy behaviors that will support members throughout their lives. Enhance focus on ritual and values-based programming in all aspects of membership and chapter operations.

Advancement

We will elevate the lives of women and be a forward-thinking organization. Develop visionary leaders through strategic leadership development. Deliver an effective and dynamic organizational structure that evolves with the needs of our membership. Support membership engagement, development and leadership through innovative and relevant technologies.

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From the strategic plan, staff members develop an annual business plan that details how the strategies and objectives of the strategic plan will be accomplished, by whom and in what timeframe. The business plan, in turn, drives the annual budget of the Sorority and the allocation of resources to projects and programs. All three components are inter-dependent: strategic plan, business plan and budget. For Alpha Sigma Alpha’s Strategic Plan 2015-18, we have identified four key themes: cultivation, advancement, significance and engagement. Each of these key themes includes key strategic goals to further the mission of Alpha Sigma Alpha. National council is excited for the future of Alpha Sigma Alpha and for all members’ support and engagement in sustaining our organization for future generations.

Signiﬁcance

We will emphasize relationships that beneﬁt our members and create signiﬁcance in the communities we serve. Foster love, loyalty and life-long giving to the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation. Engage in strategic partnerships that provide value to the Sorority. Champion a culture of service and giving in our campus, local, NPC, national and global communities.

Engagement

We will provide meaningful opportunities to experience a joyful and engaged membership. Explore opportunities to increase our membership and spread our influence abroad. Create enthusiasm and inspire organizational pride throughout a member’s life. Deliver meaningful personal and professional programming and leadership-enrichment opportunities for members. Foster sustainable recruitment of collegiate and alumnae members.

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

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F EATU RE

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BY SUE ZARNOWSKI, QΣ, PHOENIX CONTRIBUTOR, DISTRICT 2 SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY LEADER

If you have been listening to the radio, watching television or reading the latest

news online, then you have probably picked up that making healthy choices to live a life that is joyful and fulfilling is the latest trend. Taking walks frequently outside, visiting health professionals for regular checkups, taking time for yourself and staying hydrated are the what people have been dubbing “the new health craze.” If you have found yourself jumping on the bandwagon of joyously living a brighter life, then you might as well put on a pair of bell-bottom jeans with a T-shirt that says “Where’s the beef” because you are a product of a pop culture fad.

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F EATU RE

#N O T ... While there will always be the new health trend” promoted in the media and word of mouth, choosing to live better for you is not a fad. Perhaps the struggle you have every now and then is deciding what routine works for you.

Every day is full of questions that need answers. In fact, did you know that on average, adults make about 35,000 decisions a day? Most of those decisions are made because of your routine. Which route should I take to work? What will I make for my children’s lunch? Should I reply to this email now or later?

hysical activity can help with stress P management, depression and anxiety.

It is common for us to take care of those around us before ourselves. We think about our parents and making sure they are making healthy choices. We think about our kids and wanting to set them up for a healthy lifestyle. The one thing we can recognize and promote is that the best way to take care of others is to take care of ourselves first. Why would we as women want to become more physically active and eat better? Diabetes affects more than 70 million women in the world and is projected to double by 2025. Cardiovascular diseases account for 1/3 of deaths among women around the world. Osteoporosis is a disease prevalent in post-menopausal women.

No matter your age, annual exams ensure wellness, help us maintain or improve upon good health and serve as a preventative step to catch a serious condition before it begins. Annual exams can include a visit with our primary health care physician or our gynecologist. Prior to any exam taking place, a doctor will inquire about health history of our family, current medications and see what has changed since the last visit.

Answer this question: Is health a priority to you? a. Top priority b. Top 5 priority c. Top 10 priority

Now, think about making new decisions to create a routine that would result in living better. Should I start working out? Should I train for a marathon? Should I rid this or that from my diet? Should I schedule an appointment for a checkup? Should I talk to someone about my emotions?

often, we will dive into recognizing the health professionals that are available and what the purpose of visiting them is.

d. I mean… I take Flintstone vitamins!

If you answered one of the bottom three choices, what would empower you to make health a top priority? It is time to look beyond the short-term goals and recognize why you and your health are one and the same.

Visiting health professionals is the new black How often to do you visit a

Annual exams include assessing one’s current health status – nutrition, physical activity, sexual practices, tobacco, alcohol and drug use along with vital signs of blood pressure, height, weight and body mass index (BMI). The exam may include information on which vaccinations are recommended by age and group risk. Physical exams carry no risks and can be used as a time to discuss birth control options and/or ask sexual and general health questions.

Sitting is the new smoking

Are you sitting while you are reading this? Did you just stand up after reading that?

health professional?

Whenever it is necessary. – Nicole L. Once a year, and when I am sick. – Samantha S. Every six months or so. – Erica G. Regularly. – Katie H. Physician, gynecologist and dermatologist once a year; dentist twice a year. – Mandi P. On average, Americans visit the doctor four times a year, which is less than the average visits of people in the United Kingdom, Australia, France, Canada, Germany and Japan according to Forbes. Rather than determining whether or not America or Japan, produces healthier people because they visit a health professional more or less

Exercise is good for you, this we know. Federal health officials recommend at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily because studies show that when you have a regular exercise routine, you can improve your overall health including cardiovascular, lowering of your blood pressure and improving your metabolism and levels of cholesterol. You can reduce your risk of diabetes, cancers and maintain a healthy weight that can boost your likelihood of continuing a regular “As humans, we exercise were not built to [sit or] routine. stand still. I incorporate a hearty amount of movement to keep my blood flowing.” – Nora D.

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So, what we have learned so far is that we should be moving at least 30 minutes a day. Check! However, if you spend each day sitting for long periods of time, the 30 minutes a day you spend moderately exercising may not produce the results you seek. According to studies, including one from the University of South Carolina, people who sit for long periods of time can have less desirable levels of cholesterol, blood sugar and have an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease and other health issues. If you find yourself to be sitting in front of the television for long periods of time, working at a desk in front of a computer from 8-5 or driving long distances, you need to be creative in finding time blocks to get your body moving throughout the day to break up long blocks of your sedentary daily lifestyle.

QUICK TIPS TO GET MOVING There are many simple activities we can use to incorporate extra movement every day. 1. You can track your steps and make daily,

weekly and monthly goals for increasing the number of steps you take. 2. If you are someone who likes incentive

or motivation, you can look into community walks or runs you can sign up to do. 3. Look for a Girls on the Run event in

your area at www.GirlsOnTheRun.org. 4. Ask your work if they offer health workshops, nutritional services or a discount at a local gym. 5. Take a walk for half of your lunch break

and enjoy the nice weather.

Tacos and salads and taco salads

Q&A

“salad” in it, does that mean it’s healthy?

IS VISITING A HEALTH PROFESSIONAL ON A REGULAR BASIS IMPORTANT TO YOU?

True or false: If a meal has the word

It depends on how you define healthy. The U.S. Departments of Health and Human Services and Agriculture have developed several tools such as healthy eating plans, a nutrient database for foods not found in packages and a breakdown of the nutrition facts label. The healthy eating plan is paired with interactive websites that help you choose food based on height, weight and other information. Learn more at womenshealth.gov and search “healthy eating.”

As much as I don’t like going to the doctor’s ofﬁce, I know it’s important to stay on top of my internal health so that I can physically and mentally be at my best performance in my personal and professional life. – Erica W. Visiting health care professionals on a

As the media posts articles and studies on what to eat and what not to eat, the food pyramid reminds us of our fruits and vegetables, whole grains and proteins. What also helps is paying attention to our carbohydrate, protein and fat intake as well.

regular basis is pretty important to me because I want to know about any issues with my body that I can’t see or don’t notice. – Elizabeth J. Dentist deﬁnitely! Doctor not as much

We can be proactive with smartphone apps such as MyFitnessPal to see the nutrition value in what we are hoping to eat, we can split our meal with a friend, or we can split the meal to ensure we take home leftovers. It is hard to resist finishing a

though, usually because when I do go everything seems to check out ﬁne except when I feel sick. – Kiley W.

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

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F EATU RE

tasty platter of nachos topped with guacamole made table side, but we need to find the will and the way to pace ourselves and portion. With summer comes along vacations, cookouts, weddings and an increase in the number of activities that have group eating 0n the agenda. Often times when we are on vacation, we are eating out more frequently, saying “why not” to the loaded potatoes and making a strong effort to have enough room for death by chocolate. At barbecues, you may not be able to help but enjoy hamburgers, buttery corn on the cob, pasta salad and whatever else is on the red, white and blue plaid tablecloth.

Keep your head up: balancing your mental health

Health experts estimate the calorie intake at a barbecue to be a 3,000-calorie food binge. Here are some healthy tips and tricks from Huffington Post to help you still enjoy the barbecue and keep your health a priority: Substitute the beef in burgers and hot dogs with turkey, chicken or vegetables. Stock up on veggies. Zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes and onions are a summer treat and add flavor to the main course. Don’t show up starving. Sometimes we don’t know what will be on the menu at a party. You can start your day with a balanced meal of protein and carbohydrates to be satisfied. This will help with control during the party and eating smaller portions. Regularly drink water throughout the day to stay hydrated and to keep your stomach from being empty.

Your mental health is very important. When you take care of yourself, you can do what is most important to you: working hard at your job, learning new things, taking care of your family, volunteering, enjoying the outdoors and all else that is important to you.

Good mental health helps you enjoy life and cope with the challenges life guarantees to give you. It offers a feeling of well-being and inner strength. Just as you take care of your body by eating right and exercising regularly, you can also work to protect your mental health. In fact, eating right and exercising can help maintain good mental health. You have to work to keep your mind healthy. You will not have a healthy body if you don’t also take care of your mind. So what can you do to work at building up your mental health? First, identify the correlation between nutrition, exercise, sleep and stress and mental health. The food you eat can have a direct effect on your energy level, physical health and mood. A “healthy diet” is one that has enough of each

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essential nutrient, contains many foods from all of the basic food groups, provides the right amount of calories to maintain a healthy weight and does not have too much fat, sugar, salt or alcohol.

Stress is diﬀerent for everyone, and it can be different at different times for the same person as well. When the response to stress leads you with the inability to reset, it can lead to more difficult problems for your mental health.

As mentioned before, regular physical activity is important to the physical and mental health of almost everyone, including older adults. Being physically active can help you continue to do the things you enjoy and stay independent as you age. Regular physical activity over long periods of time can produce long-term health benefits. That’s why health experts say that everyone should be active every day to maintain their health.

As with every situation, ask your doctor or another health care professional for more information on your mental and physical well-being.

Remember to always make time for you. It is just as important to care for yourself as it is to care for those you love. Do you know how during the safety demonstration on an airplane, they tell you that if a drop in air pressure occurs, that you are to put on your Getting a good night’s sleep is as important to breathing device first and then put it on our health as eating, drinking and breathing. It someone else who needs assistance, like allows our bodies to repair themselves and our your child. Because others depend on you, brains to consolidate our memories and process information. If you have trouble sleeping, try to it is more important to take care of yourself establish routines so that your body can adapt to it. first so that you are healthy and ready to do all that you want.

“I believe exercise to sh. It’s the be my time to be selfi am focusing on one thing I do that I 4-5 times a week for myself for. I exercise weight training and 1-2 hours doing both s reduce my stress cardio. Exercise help ppier.” and makes me feel ha – Valerie R.

“My dog ensures that I get some physical activity every day! We walk for at least an hour every day, and we jog three times a week.” – Dina L.

Q&A HOW OFTEN SHOULD I VISIT A... PHYSICIAN/FAMILY DOCTOR? Once a year for an annual check-up, when you are sick and for regular immunity shots, such as the ﬂu shot.

Routines you can establish: Going to bed and waking up at the same

DERMATOLOGIST? Once a year, perhaps

time every day. Avoid sleeping in.

preparing for the warmer months to seek

Recognizing that as a woman, you are an undercover superhero. You balance your work, your Avoid heavy meals close to your bed time. home, your relationships, your kids and your parents. You deserve your time as well. Exercise daily. Take a warm bath or shower before bed. Avoid hyperactive mental activities prior to bed time, i.e. looking at your phone, watching intense programs on television, etc.

Read more about what Alpha Sigma Alphas had to say about making health a priority at www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org and search “Your Health is Your Journey.”

advice on skin protection from the sun. GYNECOLOGIST? You can discuss this with your physician to determine how often you should visit a gynecologist, and for many women, your primary physician is sufﬁcient. DENTIST? It is recommended that you visit the dentist twice a year for a cleaning and annually for X-rays. OPTOMETRIST? The older you get, the more often you should look into visiting an optometrist. Visit at least once every 2-3 years until you turn 40, then determine if more frequent visits are necessary.

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

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UPCOM I NG E V E N T S

Save the date DISTRICT DAY & ADVISOR INSTITUTE 2015-16

DISTRICT 2 – PHILADELPHIA Nov. 14, 2015

DISTRICT 3 – PITTSBURGH Nov. 7, 2015

DISTRICT 6 – MEMPHIS Jan. 30, 3016

DISTRICT 5 – FT. WAYNE Feb. 27, 2016

DISTRICT 7 – DALLAS March 5, 2016

DISTRICT 4 – RICHMOND Feb. 6, 2016

DISTRICT 8 – MILWAUKEE Oct. 24, 2015

DISTRICT 9 – KANSAS CITY Feb. 20, 2016

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C HA P T E R I NS TA LLAT I ON

BY KATIE MATIS SMITH, DH, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNCIATIONS AND MARKETING

Delta Gamma Chapter at West Chester University, PA

In January 2015, Alpha Sigma Alpha reinstalled its

Saturday, Jan. 31, 2015: The Sanctuary Degree Service, the Service for Installation of a New Chapter and the Service for the Installation of Collegiate OďŹ&#x192;cers started off the weekendâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s celebration. Members of Alpha Gamma Chapter, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Nu Nu Chapter, Drexel University, PA, Delta Iota Chapter, University of Delaware, and alumnae from the Central Pennsylvania Alumnae Chapter served as sponsors for the women being initiated. National President Melissa Koch Merriam, EE, and Leadership Consultant Alyssa York, HH, served as the installing officers for the Service for the Installation of a New Chapter. The White Luncheon gathered members of Alpha Sigma Alpha in celebration of the reinstalled Delta Gamma Chapter. District Facilitator Carli Feldman, ZN, served as the mistress of ceremonies for the luncheon. Members were presented with membership certificates, and initiates and new members alike were presented with phoenix recognition pins as symbols of their accomplishment of being a founding member of Delta Gamma Chapter. The Installation Banquet was held Saturday evening with family, friends and sisters joining the Delta Gamma Chapter members.

Leadership Consultant Alyssa served as the toastmistress for the banquet. The keynote speaker for the evening was District 3 Advisory Board District Liaison Chayna Wilson, EM, who challenged the founding members to establish a legacy that will last a lifetime. Members were presented with the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation charter member dangle, and alumnae made toasts in honor of the Delta Gamma Chapter. The evening reached its pinnacle with the official unveiling of the charter by National President Melissa Koch Merriam. Members of Delta Gamma Chapter from the early 1970s attended the reinstallation. Delta Gamma Chapter installation team Melissa Koch Merriam, EE, national president Kelly McGinnis Morello, EK, vice president of finance Christine Strapac Thomas, AG, Foundation chairman Lisa Stephenson, EE, membership growth coordinator Carli Timpson Feldman, ZN, district facilitator Alyssa York, HH, leadership consultant

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CHAPT ER I NSTA L L AT I ON

Delta Gamma Chapter advisory board Every collegiate chapter of Alpha Sigma Alpha has a support system in the form of the chapter advisory board. A chapter advisory board offers continuity and stability to the chapter over the years, and they are a vital part of Alpha Sigma Alpha. The advisory board of Delta Gamma Chapter has a wealth of backgrounds, experiences and stories that help shape its dynamic support to the colony and now chapter. Women serving on the board include first-time volunteers, volunteers who haven’t been involved in more than 10 years as well as a past member of national council. This talented group of volunteers excels in their careers and whose industries include science, marketing, sales, pharmaceuticals and special education. “We are a very diverse board,” said Chapter Advisor Marcia Pucci Jacquette, DN-A. “One of us has previous advising experience, one of us is a longtime volunteer and three are new to volunteering. The younger advisors are more familiar with the campus norms of today, while the older advisors bring a sense of history and an understanding of why those norms exist. “The diversity is a blessing on this board, but it is the common dedication and integrity of the advisors that makes this team unique,”

continued Marcia. “Every one of the advisors feels the same deep sense of responsibility to the chapter and a commitment to our role in developing our sisters into women of poise and purpose. At the same time, we help each other maintain balance with jobs, kids, graduate school, etc. and have fun. This board truly demonstrates balance, generosity, responsibility, relationships and enjoyment, which makes them both strong role models for the chapter women and awesome teammates.” From transfer to chapter president Rachael Hafer went to college and pursued intercollegiate soccer. She started her career at West Chester University and then transferred to Southern Connecticut State University, but at the end of her sophomore year, she knew her soccer career was ready to end. She took the next semester off and then transferred back to West Chester University. But before she transferred back to West Chester, she met the women of Theta Sigma Chapter at Southern Connecticut State University and joined in spring 2013. She joined Alpha Sigma Alpha because from the moment she met the women of Theta Sigma Chapter, who she said were so welcoming, successful and confident, she knew it was meant to be. “My mom is an Alpha Sigma Alpha from Temple University, Pennsylvania,” said Rachael. “She encouraged me to go to a recruitment event with them at Southern Connecticut State, and I am glad she did because joining Alpha Sigma Alpha was the best decision I made. “I was really excited when I knew Alpha Sigma Alpha was establishing a new chapter at West Chester. I reached out to the advisors and attended a colony

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meeting right away, and the women and everyone were so welcoming. It reassured me that transferring back to West Chester was the right decision.” Shortly after she joined the colony, women were approaching Rachael about running for president. “I knew and loved what Alpha Sigma Alpha stands for, and I wanted to see Alpha Sigma Alpha make a positive impact at West Chester. I do my best to include everyone in decision-making and keep the chapter’s best interest in mind. “I, as well as the rest of the chapter, want the women of Delta Gamma Chapter to be welcoming and positive role models. We are a family and are going to support each other in everything we do.”

“She told me to get to know every sister, that these women were my new support system for the rest of my life. She really taught me to learn to love everyone and that this sisterhood would last a lifetime.” Ellen joined the Delta Chi Chapter at Bloomsburg University, Pennsylvania, in spring 1984. Little did she dream that 31 years later she would welcome her daughter Krysta as a sister as well. “It was really emotional during initiation. My mom and I have always been close, and for her to pin me and welcome me as her sister made us even closer. She told me how proud she was of me and that this opportunity was mine. Few women can say they were pinned by their mother.”

Following her mother’s legacy Krysta Stefanosky is the vice president of alumnae and heritage, and her inspiration and motivation to be a leader in the chapter was her mother, Ellen McIntyre Stefanosky, DC. Ellen was the vice president of alumnae and heritage of her chapter in the mid-1980s. “My mom told me that being in a sorority may be hard, especially starting a new one,” said Krysta, “but she told me she knew I could do it.

DELTA GAMMA FUN FACTS The chapter earned a grant from the university to send members to this summer’s Emma Coleman Frost Leadership Development Institute. The chapter exceeded their spring recruitment target of 10 and recruited 32 new members. One member of the chapter plays tennis for the university. The chapter displayed an immediate great commitment to our national philanthropic partners. They have volunteered for Girls on the Run, Special Olympics, S. June Smith Center’s Battle of the Banks Service immersion participant – Emily Castillo UIFI participants – Kate Stellar, Kelly Theisinger Members of the chapter are from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware and Maryland Installation gifts and donations sponsored by:Kelly McGinnis Morello, EK; Suzanne Hebert, BZ; Susanne Alfonso, NN; Donna Haines, GΟ; Meredith Cheryba, EK; Diane James, HH; Sue Zarnowski, QΣ; Greater Kansas City Alumnae Chapter; Chayna Wilson, EM.

(Top to bottom) National President Melissa Koch Merriam presents a fraternal enhancement grant to West Chester University, PA, on behalf of Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority. Krysta Stefanosky and Ellen McIntyre Stefanosky after installation when Ellen pinned her daughter.

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

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D I S TR I C T N E W S

3 1. Beta Upsilon Chapter, Indiana State University Gabrielle Dallecarbonare shows off the crown with her hands as see jumps into a pool of freezing cold water for Polar Plunge. Polar Plunge is a fundraiser hosted by local Special Olympics state and regional offices. Alpha Sigma Alpha members and chapters raise thousands of dollars for Special Olympics through Polar Plunge annually. 2. Gamma Lambda Chapter, Loyola University of Chicago Sisters who participated in Lady Bug Olympics as cheerleaders for the teams that competed in our volleyball tournament with some of the students that came and supported us. Our cheerleaders cheered

4 all of the teams on and encouraged people to donate to Special Olympics. 3. Gamma Eta Chapter, Pennsylvania State University Alpha Sigma Alpha raised more than $266,000 for THON 2015. THON is the largest student-run fundraiser in the world, raising money to fight pediatric cancer. Pictured: Allison Levy, Brooke Seidel, Madelynn Malnik, Morgan Lader, Joelle Karlitz, Ashley Polansky, Jenna Lechner. 4. Epsilon Eta Chapter, Virginia Wesleyan College Epsilon Eta at Virginia Wesleyan College during their Murder Mystery Dinner, which is hosted once a semester to raise money for

our philanthropic partners. This semesterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dinner raised money for Girls on the Run. The chapter paired up with the Theater Honor Society at our school who wrote and performed the skit. The audience was able to have interactions with the actors and guess who they thought was the murderer. Pictured: Toni Aris-Howell, Natalie Kendall, Jackie Delgado, Brooke Totzeck, Morgan Piero, Aryn Kormanis, Christina Call, Zezie Martins, Liana Merrill, Hannah Louk, Sandra Liedl, Ashlei Gates, Dylyn Kotteles, Samantha White, Kaylee Moore, Meaghan Rawls, Chelsea White, Rachel Connolly, Tianna Garland.

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7 5. Theta Nu Chapter, Knox College, IL Sisters of Theta Nu attended Midwest Bisexual Lesbian Gay Transgender Ally College Conference, the largest LGBTQIA college conference in the nation, at Illinois State University in February 2015. Sisters had the chance to attend sessions on LGBTA issues and had the opportunity to see Laverne Cox as the keynote speaker. Pictured: Anna Clifford, Brandi Pudlo, Amber Simon, Alessandra Power, Alanna Toomey. 6. Theta Eta Chapter, Rogers State University, OK Theta Eta volunteered at the Special Olympics Winter Games 2015 in January in Norman, OK. Members assisted bowlers, kept their score and placed the

8 medals around the necks of all the athletes at the conclusion of the competition. Sisters mentioned they learned about kindness, encouragement and team spirit through the experience and had as much fun volunteering with them as they did competing. Pictured: Jordan Unger, Addison Jirik, LaNae Henegar, LaShawn White, Alyssa Brown, Kyla Guinn, Kelsey Nicklas, Elyse Urbonas, Chelsea Keiser, Haley Moore, Renee Dawson, Ashlyn Brown, Jesalyn Nelson.

Marissa Rodriquez, Nicole Roberts, Heather White, Margaret Schneiderheinz, Wendy Saldivar, Shayla George, Kortney Lacek, Kelsi Schneider, Jennifer Brooks, Adriana Mercado. 8. Tidewater Alumnae Chapter, VA Members of Tidewater Alumnae Chapter, VA, attending this year’s District 4 District Day. Pictured: Erica Whitefield, ZΥ, Gwendolyn Burke, ZΥ, Misty Young, DΡ, Julie Wiley Levine, A, Jennifer DeLawrence, EH.

7. Theta Epsilon Chapter, Schreiner University, TX This photo was taken after an alumnae lunch this winter at Rosario’s in downtown San Antonio. Pictured: Dallas Meadows,

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D I S TR I C T N E W S

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11 9. Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter The Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter participated in the Adopt-A-Family program during Christmas 2014, and members Nita Lalla Roncone, ET, and Cindy Rhoades Ryan, ΔΙ, delivered gifts to the family.

10. Greater Kansas City Alumnae Chapter The Greater Kansas City Alumnae Chapter hosted a Kansas City Gangsters Tour from Union Station. It was a great sisterhood event with a wonderful turnout.

11. Windy City Alumnae Chapter, IL Windy City Alumnae Chapter joined DePaul’s Delta Eta Chapter as they jumped into Lake Michigan for Chicago’s Annual Polar Plunge in support of Special Olympics. Pictured: Michele Reining Malo, DH, Stephanie Vjunovich, Kate Gronstal, ZF, Kim Bayma, YY, Caroline Eaton, DH, Carina Medina, DH, Bella Fieoretto, DH, Merrill Watzman, DH, Mel Sanchez, DH. Photo taken by Brianne Bradbury Photography.

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14 12. H attiesburg Alumnae Chapter, LA The Hattiesburg Alumnae Chapter celebrated the Queens Luncheon Krewe of Phoenix on Mardi Gras day. This is an annual event since 1999. Pictured: Lynn Jones Meador, BD, Lynn Fox Royse, BD, Dolly Purvis Loyd, BD, Ursula Jones, BD, Betty Eure Parrish, BD, Susan Taylor Carter, BD.

13. Charlotte Alumnae Chapter, NC The Charlotte Alumnae Chapter celebrated spring with their monthly sisterhood brunch. Pictured: Angela Dantzler Bauldree, BZ, Barbara Barnes, NN, Laurel Griswold, BK, Taylor Stewart, BQ, Christie Wolf, ZC, Regina Robertson, FF, Michelle Blankenship, GP.

14. Buffalo Alumnae Chapter, NY This spring the Buffalo Alumnae Chapter, NY, attended the Buffalo Alumnae Panhellenic tea at the home of the Buffalo State College President Kathy Conway-Turner. Pictured are Marcia Kinbar Goldstein, DT, Sydney Metzger, ZC, Sarah Haley, ZC, Donette Pritting Thurlow, PP, Sarah Hanson, ZC, Colleen Donovan, ZC.

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D I S TR I C T N E W S â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PAREN T S

Parents Day 2015

Collegiate chapters welcome parents to their campuses and share their Alpha Sigma Alpha experience.

1. Delta Upsilon Chapter, University of Texas-San Antonio 2. Gamma Omega Chapter, Eastern Illinois University 3. Theta Rho Chapter, West Texas A&M University 4. Theta Mu Chapter, Valdosta State University, GA 5. Theta Nu Chapter, Knox College, IL

6. Theta Omicron Chapter, University of Missouri-Kansas City 7. Theta Tau Chapter, Capital University, OH 8. Theta Xi Chapter, University of Texas at El Paso 9. Zeta Eta Chapter, Rockhurst University, MO 10. Zeta Eta Chapter, Rockhurst University, MO

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10 www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

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D I S TR I C T N E W S – AWA R DS

Congrats award winners!

Collegiate chapters take home top awards at campus recognition banquets.

1. & 2. Beta Iota Chapter, Radford University, VA 3. Beta Sigma Chapter, Missouri State University 4. Delta Kappa Chapter, University of Southern Indiana 5. Delta Upsilon Chapter, University of Texas - San Antonio 6. Epsilon Phi Chapter, Indiana University 7. Gamma Phi Chapter, St. John’s University, NY 8. Phi Phi Chapter, Northwest Missouri State University

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9. Theta Mu Chapter, Valdosta State University, GA 10. Theta Phi Chapter, University of North Carolina at Pembroke 11. Theta Upsilon Chapter, Boise State University, ID 12. Zeta Alpha Chapter, Missouri Southern University 13. Zeta Omega Chapter, Austin Peay State University, TN 14. Zeta Zeta Chapter, University of Central Missouri

See a full list of chapters and awards at www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org and search “Chapter Award Winners”.

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F OU NDAT I O N N E W S

TO LEAD, TO SERVE AND MOST OF ALL TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE BY KRISTY OLINGER COULTER, DΙ , CL ASS O F 2 0 0 1

As a collegian I was given the opportunity to participate in LDI. This experience built on the skills that I was already developing and it was available to me because of the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation. I give back to the Foundation because I want today’s collegians to experience leadership development opportunities that will help them grow in ways that I know would have never been possible. As I hear about the leadership programming and experiences the Emma Coleman Frost Leadership Development Institute is providing our collegiate members, I am instantly reminded of my leadership development experiences in Alpha Sigma Alpha that still impact my journey today. As a collegian, the social aspect of sorority life was the one that I was most interested in, especially recruitment. I will never forget my first formal recruitment as an active member. During those weeks of preparation, I had the opportunity to strengthen my relational skills through learning more about how to enter and exit a group conversation gracefully, as well as how to ask meaningful open-ended questions to get to know the stories of the potential new members who could end up becoming my sisters for a lifetime. However, it was not until after I graduated that I realized all that Alpha Sigma Alpha prepared me for. These recruitment practices taught me critical conversation skills that I still use today at social networking and business events. Serving as chapter president was my most valued leadership experience because it provided challenges that taught me how to lead with integrity. This leadership role prepared me for overcoming obstacles within my career and served as a reminder that when you are a leader, you have a responsibility to ensure that your organization is thriving.

It took courage, conviction and support from the national organization as we continued to hold members accountable. It was not long after enforcing this accountability that I saw the tremendous positive difference it made on the chapter. The remaining sisters were passionate about Alpha Sigma Alpha and committed to living out its values and ritual. The end result was a thriving chapter that is still in place and growing today. There are many lessons to derive from this story, but performance management is the one that has positively impacted my career trajectory, as well as my professional interactions with my colleagues today. I learned through this experience that clearly defining expectations and following through with consequences when those expectations are not met are key components to lifting those around you to performance excellence.

“As an alumna member, I am reminded that the skills and experiences I gained as a collegiate member of Alpha Sigma Alpha built a strong platform for success.” No matter how much time has passed, all the ways that Alpha Sigma Alpha and the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation impacted me personally and professionally still endure today. While my warmest memories of Alpha Sigma Alpha will always be my sisters and the life-long friendships that have brought such joy and love into my life, years later I still cherish what an incredible gift it was to have the opportunity to lead, to serve and most of all to make a difference within the supportive environment of the Alpha Sigma Alpha sisterhood.

I recall during my presidency that 19 sisters were terminated, which made up 39% of our membership at the time.Two of those sisters were my roommates. Although it was difficult to no longer have these women as part of the chapter, I knew that by enforcing the standards process, accountability would become a much needed foundation of the chapter.

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AΣA PALMS

AΣA Palms The word palm means tribute, honor or praise. Alpha Sigma Alpha gives palms to alumnae and collegians for their successes and milestones. Celebrating a personal, professional or volunteer success? Tell us about it! Send your success stories to the editor at ksmith@AlphaSigmaAlpha.org.

Zeta Zeta Kelli Williams Ramey was recently named to Advertising Age Age’s national 40 under 40 list in March. The list recognizes outstanding talent in the media, marketing and agency worlds who have achieved outstanding accomplishments at a relatively young age and are likely to shape the marketplace in the future.

“Early in my career I was encouraged to care about more than the bottom line. It’s one of the many reasons I gravitated toward cause-related work, and I think it applies not only to how companies behave, but how we treat the people we work with.” - Advertising Age, March 2015

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AΣA PAL M S

Zeta Zeta Aubrey Winn is the recipient of the University of Central Missouri’s prestigious Charno Award. The award is presented annually to the top male and female members of the senior class at the university.

Beta Zeta Dwaines Lawless recently released her latest novel “Cajun Moon,” a paranormal romance set in Southern Louisiana. A graduate of the University of Louisiana-Lafayette, Dwaines is an art educator, teacher of the blind, special education early childhood behavioral specialist, mother and grandmother, and she currently lives in Austin, Texas, with her husband, John. Find “Cajun Moon” on Facebook and Amazon.

Aubrey served as vice president of the United Student Housing Association, was a facilitator for the IMPACT freshman leadership retreat for three years, secretary of Rho Lambda honor society and public relations chair of the Big Pink volleyball tournament committee. She also served as vice president of recruitment for the Panhellenic Council, homecoming service ay site leader, vice president of Greek life, the Office of Alumni Relations student marketing team and fundraising chair and president of Alpha Sigma Alpha’s Zeta Zeta Chapter. In addition, Aubrey belongs to the Order of Omega honor society and has served the community with the Nehemiah Feeding Program.

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Zeta Iota Joanne Castaneda, DDS, MD, recently became board certified in Oral Maxillofacial Surgery. She is currently the only female oral and maxillofacial surgeon in her field. During her recent completion of studies and residency, Joanne participated in mission trips to the Dominican Republic, Ecuador and Colombia. She has been recognized many times for her work and service, including receiving the American Dental Society of Anesthesiology Horace Wells Award and the New York University Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Service Award for Leadership.

Gamma Phi

Beta Iota Carol Loftus Miller is a retired detective of the

Andreia Gibau was crowned Miss Teen New York United States in March. She will compete for Miss Teen United States this summer in Washington, DC.

special victims unit for the Arlington County Police Department in Virginia. This summer, she will compete in the 2015 Fairfax World Police & Fire Games in the open water swim, 50m free, 50m fly, 200m individual medley, 100m fly and 50m back. Carol has earned medals in previous games, including in 2007 and 2011. She is pictured with her son Lt. Jonathan Miller.

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NEWS A ND E V E N T S

Call for nominations The nominating committee requests your assistance in identifying qualified members to serve as the 2016-18 national council to be elected at the 2016 National Convention & Leadership Conference in Orlando, Florida. The call for nominations is for the following national council positions: President Vice president of operations Vice president of finance Vice president of communications Three vice presidents of membership The national council develops the Sorority’s strategic plan based on research and its view for the future and sets priorities for the biennium. The national council is expected to travel throughout the year and participate in frequent meetings, so a flexible schedule is important. In addition to face-to-face meetings, conference calls and email communications are used to conduct business. Ideal candidates will have demonstrated enthusiastic commitment to the organization, proven administrative and financial skills, creativity, vision and strong interpersonal skills to work well with both collegians and alumnae. The ability to motivate and communicate through written correspondence and public speaking is essential. Experience or skills in mentoring is helpful. Potential candidates should have a broad perspective of the Sorority including operations as well as strategic direction. It is recommended that a candidate for national council have prior experience serving as a collegiate chapter

advisor, officer of an alumnae chapter or a national volunteer. Experience in board service and leadership in other organizations is also desirable. An electronic nomination form will be emailed to the membership in August 2015. All nominations and related information must be submitted by Sept. 20, 2015. If you do not receive the electronic form, please contact asa@AlphaSigmaAlpha.org for the link to the form. All nominees will be asked to provide a resume, application and endorsement letter. Questions? Contact Nominating Committee Chairman Cindy Kelley, ΒΠ, at ckelleygs@yahoo.com or call national headquarters at (317) 871-2920.

The nominating committee is directed to identify, interview and select candidates for national council. The 2016 nominating committee has been appointed as follows: Chairman: Cindy Kelley, BΠ National volunteer representative: Jill Whittenburg Grider, ΒΓ Advisor representative: Caitlin Barkdoll, ΖΨ Alumnae chapter representative: Marianne Busch Bullock, ΒΘ Collegiate chapter representative: Kathryn Zielinski, ΘZ

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