The Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha; Summer 2014 by Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority

P page 18

HOENIX

Summer 2014 | Volume 100

PANHELLENIC

FROM THE START

How a Delta Delta Delta helped shape Alpha Sigma Alpha page 7

Membership snapshot

Congratulations new collegiate chapters!

Charter initiates Brittany Adikes Alicia Ball Emily Bargabos Berenice Bryant Megan Carroll Justine Caruselle Amelia Corbie Anna DellaRatta Regina Ferguson Rebecca Furboter Chanelle Gaines Margaret Gander April Gardner Nicole Isler Jacqueline Jordan Shannon Kennedy Kaitlyn LaMonica Alison LaPaglia Maegan Lawrence Jenny Le Liana Lee Alexandra Lodynsky Carla Marian Justine Martinez

Tracey Mikulewicz Cecilia Munoz Megan O’Leary Kelly Palomba Amanda Parker Elise Riffel Elizabeth Rios Lisa Sayedi Tara Shaghafi Gina Squicciarini Erin Stone Elizabeth Sullivan Noelle Taddeo Teresa Toscano Bethany Turner Ariella VanCooten Gillian Vincent Kasey Woodrick

Charter alumnae initiates Daria Coney Tiffany Landon Kathryn McGee Mercedes Trejo

sity, NY Gamma Phi, Chapter, St. John’s Univer Charter initiates Morgan Arnold Andrina Corella Alexis Dawson Katie Deitrick Mary Katharine Dudas Jordan Farry Jillian Flom Patience Fortner Shykeisha Garner Ana Gudiel Summer Heath Ja’Kayla Hill Rebecca Jackson Amanpreet Kaur Simone Lott Morgan Mayse Kamishia McAllister Lauren Metzger Mariam Qambar Sarah Qambar Kaitlyn Regi

Alejandra Reyes Debra Sampson Caitlyn Simkin Kelly Spainhour Megan Tillman Kayla Watson

Charter new members Jessica Darnell Kaitlyn Doublin Deja Dykes Mary Farwell Bianca Haywood Michela Morrison Tabitha Paxton Morgan Pettigrew Skyla Pryor Charter alumnae initiate Leslie Hewett Lowery

Theta Phi Chapter, University of North Carolina-Pembroke Charter initiates Trena Agee Esra’a Al-Shawafi Kristianna Bailey Sabrar Bosley Shannon Brown Kimberly Taylor Brown Oriana Clayton Kasey Conley Sierra Emanuel Patrícia Ferreira Morgan Gehres Kaitlynn Gray Kyashia Harris Erika Henriksen Ilisha Housch Megan Jones Brittany Lewis Megan Lord Kortney Maggard Catherine Matthis

, NC Theta Chi Chapter, Methodist University

Amber Martin Crystal Mansi Erin McAuliffe Ann Mixon Alexandria Nance Katherine Nation Lisa Paschal Stephanie Perez Macaila Phillips Taylor Ross Jenna Skinner Kayleen – Marie Smithling Amanda Taylor Gabbi Tobias Courtney Williams Heather Williams

Charter alumnae initiate Susan Birch

S U M ME R 2 0 1 4 C O NT ENTS

FEATURES Cover story, page 18:

Panhellenic from the start – How a Delta Delta Delta helped shape Alpha Sigma Alpha 7 Membership snapshot 8 Gamma Phi Chapter returns to St. John’s University, NY

PHOTO CREDIT: ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA ARCHIVES

10 Theta Phi Chapter installed at University of North Carolina at Pembroke 13 Theta Chi Chapter installed at Methodist University, NC 16 District Day 2014-15 and Advisor Institute 2014-15

D E PA R T ME N T S

4 Editor’s desk

PHOTO CREDIT: ANDREA BIRCH, DI

5 From the president 24 District news 27 ASA Foundation news 28 ASA Palms 30 News & events

PHOTO CREDIT: ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA

31 From the ASA archives 32 Woman of poise and purpose

COVER PHOTO CREDIT: ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA ARCHIVES

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

HOENIX

E DI T O R ’ S D E S K Volume 100, Number 3

Dear readers,

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

Each morning I run through my same routine: Alarm. Hit snooze. Alarm. Get up. Shower. Turn on coffee maker. Watch local news. Dry hair. Put on make-up. Do hair. Pick outfit. Make breakfast and coffee. Leave house. Drive to work.

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

It is a routine that works to make the rest of my day productive and meaningful. And though my routine is the same every day, the fresh motivation it gives me to think while I drive to work about all the goals I have is why I know it works.

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 Nancy I.Z. Reese, BU

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

I think about the goals I have and am currently on route to achieve. I think about the goals I am still trying to understand. I think about the reality of what I must sacrifice to stay on track. I cherish this time I get each day to think about my future. This time allows me to evaluate my priorities, my values and my road ahead. Dream it. The theme for this third installment of the 100-year anniversary of our beloved magazine, the Phoenix, is the heart of what brings women to aspire, seek and attain. We will dive into a modern interview with two women who shaped the early evolution of Alpha Sigma Alpha and celebrate the installation of two new chapters and re-establishment of a closed chapter. I hope by the time you reach the back cover of this issue, you will take a moment and think about what you dream about and how you plan to get there.

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

Mizpah,

STAY CONNECTED www.facebook.com/AlphaSigmaAlphaSorority www.twitter.com/asaHQ www.youtube.com/user/AlphaSigmaAlphaNHQ

Katie Matis Smith, Phoenix Editor Follow Katie on Twitter and Instagram @kmatis25

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

Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018 Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Summer 2014

HOENIX

Spring 2014 | Volume 100

TO Fill My Days page 6

“This is my creed...” page 18

Your journey in ASA!

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

What’s your dream? B Y NORA M. TEN BROE C K, BK | N ATIO N A L PR E S I D EN T

What’s your dream for Alpha Sigma Alpha? Have you given it much thought? You know what your present day experiences as a collegiate or alumna member are, but have you given thought to the Sorority’s future? What does Alpha Sigma Alpha look like beyond your graduation, your next alumnae gathering or the next Phoenix magazine? Since 2000, the national council has been engaged in the creation and execution of the Sorority’s strategic plan. Even before this time, a long-range planning committee was “dreaming” our future. Through this intentional strategic planning process, we dreamed our future, and the future has arrived. Today, the Sorority is 113 years of age. We are a larger organization; we are financially stable; we have a national headquarters in Indianapolis that was built to meet our needs; we have volunteer teams and a professional headquarters staff; we have a successful counterpart in the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation; we have a respected role within the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC); we offer quality national programming opportunities–and so much more! So what’s left to dream about? More chapters, more volunteers, more donors, cutting edge programming or an expanded national headquarters? These things appear to be the expectation today – rather than the dream. If every NPC organization offers these opportunities or things, what makes Alpha Sigma Alpha special? Perhaps our opportunity today is to evaluate how well we are fulfilling the Founders’ dream for our Sorority. Certainly their thoughts were not about endowments, national headquarters buildings, volunteer structures or programming. Their dreams, auspicious for the advancement of women, can be translated into rather simple terms.

more successfully the events of life. A sorority is the training ground for the cultivation of the act of living in harmony with other people. Cooperation cannot be had where affection or trust is not. The first duty of the sorority is then to nurture of the atmosphere of mutual love and fellowship in common venture. Alpha Sigma Alpha has a definite work to perform throughout the lives of its members and through them a beneficial influence upon society at large.” Let’s check ourselves today against Louise’s philosophy: • Do we help members more successfully meet the events of life? • Do we help members live in harmony with other people? • Does our culture encourage cooperation? • Does our culture encourage mutual love and fellowship? • Does the Sorority, through its members, influence society at large? By your assessment, how are we doing? In the midst of membership numbers, total chapters, technology enhancements and programmatic opportunities, it’s wise to do a reality check against a founding philosophy of the Sorority from a time when amenities and branding didn’t yet exist, but the need to create a place for women to come together to succeed did. It is my dream, that Louise’s philosophy remains relevant for the future Alpha Sigma Alpha. Without this, what truly do we have?

In Alpha Sigma Alpha,

Nora M. Ten Broeck National President Follow Nora on Twitter @ntenbroeck

Founder Louise Cox Carper summed up Alpha Sigma Alpha’s philosophy in this way: “The fundamental object of a sorority is to cultivate those qualities which will help its members to meet

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

• • • • • • • • • • • • Oct. 6-12, 2014 • • • • • • • • • • • •

save the date

HE R E W E G R O W A GA IN

ASA in the USA 73

plus members abroad!

76,470 total membership

Which states have the highest population of Alpha Sigma Alpha members?

MOST POPULOUS

NEW COLLEGIATE CHAPTERS SINCE 2009

NEW ALUMNAE CHAPTERS SINCE 2009

Theta Eta, Rogers State University, OK

Austin, TX

Theta Kappa, Texas A&M University-Kingsville

Midnight Sun, AK

Theta Iota, Oregon Institute of Technology

Sun City, TX

Theta Lambda, Frostburg State University, MD

Christmas City, PA

Theta Mu, Valdosta State University, GA Theta Nu, Knox College, IL Theta Omicron, University of MissouriKansas City Theta Xi, University of Texas at El Paso Theta Pi, Utah Valley University Theta Sigma, Southern Connecticut State University

Greater Jacksonville, FL

Lafayette, IN Central Missouri Oklahoma City Northeast Ohio West Michigan CURRENT COLONIES Beta Kappa, Western Illinois University

Theta Rho, West Texas A&M University Theta Tau, Capital University, OH Theta Upsilon, Boise State University, ID Theta Phi, University of North Carolina at Pembroke

LEAST POPULOUS

Theta Chi, Methodist University, NC

UPCOMING COLONIES Delta Gamma, West Chester University, PA (Fall 2014) Tau Tau, Fort Hayes State University, KS (Fall 2017)

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

C H APTER I NSTA L L AT I ON

By Danielle Davis, HH, leadership consultant

In February 2014, Alpha Sigma Alpha welcomed back the

Gamma Phi Chapter at St. John’s University, NY Friday, Jan. 31, 2014 The “We are Ladybugs” reception was attended by local alumnae members, members of the Gamma Clio Chapter at SUNY-Cortland and members of the Theta Sigma Chapter at Southern Connecticut State University. The women gathered to enjoy dessert and get to know one another. They played ice breaker games and discussed their excitement for re-installing the Gamma Phi Chapter the next day. Saturday, Feb. 1, 2014 The Sanctuary Degree Service and the Service for the Installation of a New Chapter was held at the D’Angelo Student Center on the St. John’s University campus. Local alumnae and collegians from the Gamma Clio Chapter, Theta Sigma Chapter and Zeta Theta Chapter at Wagner College, NY, served as sponsors for the new initiates.

The white luncheon gathered attendees together to celebrate the installation of the new chapter and initiation of the Gamma Phi Chapter members. The installation banquet was held Saturday evening with family and sisters joining the Gamma Phi Chapter to celebrate. The keynote speaker was District 3 Advisory Board District Liaison Chayna Wilson, EM, who challenged the women to be their own superheroes. The evening ended with the unveiling of the charter. Gamma Phi installation team Kelly McGinnis Morello, EK, vice president of finance Lisa Stephenson, EE, membership growth coordinator Kristine Plourde Golden, NN, District 2 district facilitator Danielle Davis, HH, leadership consultant Gamma Phi Chapter – now and then The Gamma Phi Chapter has a tremendous history at St. John’s University. The chapter originally existed in 1969 and is home to many significant Alpha Sigma Alpha alumnae. Kappa Phi Beta, a local sorority that had a campus history of more than 50 years, was the group that chose to affiliate with Alpha Sigma Alpha. The local sorority was the oldest organization on campus. Alumnae of Kappa Phi Beta showed an outpouring of support for the women during the colonization process. A founding member of the sorority even wrote to the colony.

Charter initiate Emily Bargabos with her mother at the installation banquet.

Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Summer 2014

Charter initiates celebrate the return of Gamma Phi Chapter. “Our hope is that the sisters…will remember the history of this group and will create its own legend to include it. We continue to pray that…you will spread the spirit around, let the spirit sound, and pass the spirit down so it will live through all the years to follow. We thank all of you for doing just that.” The support of the local sorority’s alumnae members made the connection and transition with Alpha Sigma Alpha even stronger. Culture of service Members Emily Bargabos and April Gardner were chosen to participate in the trip to Give Kids the World in spring 2014. Give Kids the World is a 70-acre resort in Florida that is home to accommodations, entertainment attractions, whimsical venues and fun specifically designed for children with special needs and their families. Each year, St. John’s University chooses eight members of the fraternal community to visit the Give Kids the World village during spring break. Emily and April brought it back to the creed to explain their experience. To love life and joyously live each day to its ultimate good. “This is something I saw in the Wish children and their families each day,” said Emily. “They were effortlessly living each day to its ultimate good and unconditionally loving and appreciating the life they were given despite their hardships.” April and Emily felt that this experience of giving their time and service to these families gave them back so much more than they expected. At the end of each day the group from St. John’s University would reflect upon their experiences that day, which was an emotional time. These sisters were able to support each other, as well as the other members of the fraternal community. The unified atmosphere was something they had never seen before, and they believed this group of individuals were all destined to experience this together.

Campus influence Alpha Sigma Alpha members are known for their involvement in other campus organizations, especially student government. • Senior Emily Bargabos served as the student government treasurer and is also a part of the student affairs committee. This committee plans American Cancer Society Relay for Life and other charitable events. • Senior Maggie Gander was a member of the school spirit committee, a committee where she helped put on events such as St. John’s Festival and athletic event pep rallies. • Sophomore April Gardner is the sophomore representative for the college in student government. • Sophomore Caroline Zottl is currently the vice president of the student government association. “With this honor I hope to incorporate my Alpha Sigma Alpha values, in particular responsibility and learning,” says Caroline. “I will also be called upon to balance the new professional aspects of my life, with the social, intellectual, spiritual and physical aspects of my life.”

GAMMA PHI FUN FACTS C harter initiate April Gardner was recognized as St. John’s University “Sorority Woman of the Year” for 2014. The chapter received the “Change and Innovation Award.” T he chapter won “Sorority of the Year” in 2013 before they affiliated with Alpha Sigma Alpha. T he Gamma Phi Chapter had the highest GPA of the fraternal organizations. C harter initiates are from New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Texas, California, Nevada, Virginia, Maryland and Trinidad and Tobago. T he D’Angelo Student Center at St. John’s University is named after an Alpha Sigma Alpha alumna, Peggy D’Angelo, and her husband. T he chapter raised more than $2,500 for Relay for Life. C harter initiate Cecilia Munoz was recognized as St. John’s University’s “Sorority Woman of the Year” in 2013. C harter initiate Justine Caruselle is a recipient of an Alpha Sigma Alpha scholarship to the Undergraduate Interfraternity Institute (UIFI). C harter initiate Erin Stone received a spring break service grant to the S. June Smith Center in spring 2014.

Installation gifts and donations sponsored by: Vice President of Finance Kim Benson, ΔN-B; Past National President Diane James, HH; Chayna Wilson, EM; Zeta Zeta Chapter, University of Central Missouri; Washington, DC, Alumnae Chapter www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

C H APTER I NSTA L L AT I ON

By Jordan Huntze, BL, leadership consultant

In March 2014, Alpha Sigma Alpha installed the

Theta Phi Chapter at University of North Carolina at Pembroke Saturday, March 15, 2014: The Sanctuary Degree, the Service for Installation of a New Chapter and the Service for the Installation of Collegiate Chapter Officers started off the day at the Holiday Inn in Lumberton, NC. Members of Theta Gamma Chapter from Christopher Newport University, VA, and area alumnae served as sponsors for the women being initiated. The white luncheon gathered members of Alpha Sigma Alpha in celebration of the newly installed Theta Phi Chapter. District 4 District Facilitator Kathleen Burns Swatt, ΘB, 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 Theta Phi Chapter. The installation banquet was held Saturday evening with family, friends and sisters joining the Theta Phi Chapter members. Leadership Consultant Jordan Huntze served as the toast mistress for the banquet. The keynote speaker for the evening was Past National President Cindy Kelley, BΠ, who encouraged the women of Theta Phi to enjoy the relationships formed in Alpha Sigma Alpha, but to more importantly remember to lead, to serve and to make a difference. Members were presented with the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation charter member dangle, and alumnae made toasts in honor of the Theta Phi Chapter. The evening reached its pinnacle with the official unveiling of the charter by National President Nora Ten Broeck and Theta Phi Chapter president Rebecca Jackson.

Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Summer 2014

Theta Phi installation team Nora M. Ten Broeck, BK, national president Lisa Stephenson, EE, membership growth coordinator Kathleen Burns Swatt, ΘB, District 4 district facilitator Jordan Huntze, BΛ, leadership consultant Farmville Four In 1901, when a group of five close friends were extended bids to three different sororities at the State Female Normal School (now Longwood University) in Farmville, VA, they decided to instead cement their friendship forever by forming an entirely new sorority. After Alpha Sigma Alpha was founded, these four sororities, all founded at the school, became known as the Farmville Four. When Alpha Sigma Alpha decided to colonize at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, Zeta Tau Alpha, Kappa Delta and Sigma Sigma Sigma already had chapters on campus. The university is now the only one in the nation that has the Farmville Four and only the Farmville Four. Just as our five founders decided to take the chance to create something new on their campus, the charter members of the Theta Phi Chapter made the same decision when choosing to join Alpha Sigma Alpha. On Leadership Consultant Jordan Huntze’s very first day on campus, a young woman named Kamishia McAllister ran up to her, extended

her hand, introduced herself and proclaimed, “I have been waiting for two years for Alpha Sigma Alpha to get here. I cannot wait for the opportunity to be a founding member of this incredible organization.” Kamishia did indeed become a founding member, as did several other seniors who had been waiting for this opportunity. Senior and charter initiate Debra Sampson was adamant that she would never join a sorority, but when a friend dragged her to an informational presentation about Alpha Sigma Alpha, she quickly changed her tune. “During the Sanctuary Degree I felt an overwhelming sense of pride, respect and joy as I became an official member of Alpha Sigma Alpha. When I signed my name I knew I wasn’t just signing my name to something as simple as an exam or a school loan. I knew that I was adding my name to a long list of women who have devoted their lives to not only making themselves better but also to making this world a better place.”

Theta Phi Chapter charter initiates Mariam Qambar, Aman Kuar, Sarah Qambar and Alexandra Reyes with their membership certificates.

Leslie Hewett Lowery, QF, chapter advisor and alumna initiate Alpha Sigma Alpha relies heavily on the efforts of alumnae and dedicated volunteers to ensure that our collegiate chapters have the resources and support they need to succeed. The Theta Phi Chapter was fortunate enough to find this support and unwavering devotion in an expected form—in an alumna of another sorority. Leslie Hewett Lowery, QΦ, was a member of the local sorority Theta Kappa during her time as an undergraduate. When she heard about Alpha Sigma Alpha joining the Panhellenic community she saw it as a chance to give back to an experience that had impacted her life and to promote growth and service in her community. “As the chapter advisor for Theta Phi, I have enjoyed getting to know the women and line up philanthropy opportunities for them as well as assist them with meetings and programming. We have a very diverse group of young women in our chapter who should be successful on this campus because of their unique personalities and the values that are the foundation of Alpha Sigma Alpha.” Leslie has been an invaluable asset to the chapter connecting them to the local community and helping to recruit other advisors to the chapter’s advisory board. Leslie has worked in North Carolina public schools for the past 20 years and is currently the positive behavior intervention and support coordinator for Public Schools of Robeson County. She is married to Johnny Lowery and is the mother of three young boys. As an alumna initiate, she hopes to help establish an alumnae chapter in southeastern North Carolina. “My alumnae initiation was a very special day for me, not only because it was the installation of the whole chapter but because I was able to share in the excitement with the women, reconnect with the awesome alumnae I met at D4 District Day and meet some of the parents of the sisters in the Theta Phi Chapter.”

Charter initiate Alexis Dawson at the installation banquet.

Summer Heath, cupcake versus cancer During a colony meeting in the fall of 2013, the members of the colony were going around the room sharing their “highs and lows” from the previous week. When it was new member Summer Heath’s turn to share, she could hardly contain her joy. She shared that she had received two incredible phone calls that past Friday. One was from Leadership Consultant Jordan Huntze, BΛ, offering her an invitation to join Alpha Sigma Alpha. The other phone call was from her doctor telling her that her scans had come back showing that her cancer had not spread. Summer was diagnosed with a rare form of eye cancer known as ocular melanoma on July 1, 2013, at age 19. www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

C H APTER I NSTA L L AT I ON Ocular melanoma is known for spreading to other organs of the body and, according to genetic testing, Summer’s doctors told her she has an 80 percent chance of this happening. While radiation treatments were successful and the tumor has not metastasized to any other parts of her body, Summer has lost vision in her left eye, and she undergoes full-body scans and physicals every three months. “After being diagnosed I was in shock. Hearing I had cancer was tough, but saying it for the first time was much worse.” When Summer’s new sisters heard that one of their own was battling cancer, they rallied around her to support her. With the help of her sisters, Summer hosted a three-day campaign on campus called “A Selfie for a Cause” where she asked fellow students to take a “selfie” while wearing an eye patch to raise awareness for ocular melanoma. The event was a huge success as Summer was able to educate her peers on the disease as well as give them a chance to see the world as she views it. Summer says, “I have felt support from my sisters in so many ways. They will do anything to help me, whether it is helping make posters for my awareness campaigns or taking me to the doctors when I am not able to drive or simply sending me inspirational texts to brighten my day. I couldn’t continue on without all the various forms of support and knowing I can talk to any of them about it. “My Alpha Sigma Alpha big sister has been amazing because she has a brain tumor, so we have a connection that not a lot of people can understand. She and another sister bought me a necklace that says ‘no one fights alone’ and presented it to me during a chapter meeting.

Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Summer 2014

These two walked on either side of me during the survivor lap at Relay for Life on campus. It is the many small gestures that really inspire me to keep fighting. It is the support of those around me that reminds me that I was given this for a reason. I can’t give up.” THETA PHI FUN FACTS C harter initiate Mary Katharine Dudas attended Alpha Sigma Alpha’s Service Immersion Experience to Oahu, HI, in May 2014. C harter initiates are from North Carolina, New York, Washington, DC, and Kuwait. UNC-Pembroke is one of 17 schools in the University of North Carolina system. T heta Phi Chapter won both the Homecoming Week and the Greek Week competitions. T heta Phi Chapter was recognized with the Service Award and the Public Relations Award by the fraternal community. C harter initiate Caitlyn Simkin is a senior airman and an ophthalmic technician in the United States Air Force Reserves. C harter initiates Sarah Qambar and Mariam Qambar are identical twins who were born in Kuwait. Theta Phi Chapter was installed just two weeks before the Theta Chi Chapter at Methodist University, NC, which is only 45 minutes away from UNC-Pembroke. Installation gifts and donations sponsored by: Past National President Diane James, HH; Zeta Psi Chapter, Loras College, IA; Zeta Mu Chapter, Missouri Western State University; Tidewater Alumnae Chapter, VA

C HA P T E R I N S TA L L ATIO N

By Andrea Birch, DI, leadership consultant

In March 2014, Alpha Sigma Alpha installed the

Theta Chi Chapter at Methodist University, NC Saturday, March 29, 2014 The Sanctuary Degree Service and the Service for Installation of a New Chapter kicked off the day at Gardners United Methodist Church in Fayetteville, NC. Members of the Theta Phi Chapter from University of North Carolina at Pembroke served as sponsors for the new members.

Mother, daughter and sisters for life Leadership Consultant Andrea Birch visited various Alpha Sigma Alpha chapters last fall. She began working with the newest colony at Methodist University in January 2014. Throughout her journey, Andrea often called her mom, Sue Birch, to tell her about all of the women she met. However, one of the mother-daughter phone calls stood out from the rest.

The white luncheon followed the event to celebrate the installation of the Theta Chi Chapter. Later in the evening, the installation banquet was held in the Berns Student Center at Methodist University. Family, friends and faculty members joined the sisters of Alpha Sigma Alpha. University President Dr. Ben Hancock was the keynote speaker and talked about the benefit of fraternity and sorority life. Both Director of Campus Life Doris Munoz and Assistant Director of Campus Life Ryan Bowyer made remarks to honor the chapter as well. Right before the closing of the event, the chapter was presented with their charter from National President Nora Ten Broeck. Theta Chi installation team Nora M. Ten Broeck, BK, national president Lisa Stephenson, EE, membership growth coordinator Kathleen Burns Swatt, Î&#x2DC;B, District 4 district facilitator Nikki Kawalec, ZU, volunteer management team leader Andrea Birch, Î&#x201D;I, leadership consultant Leadership Consultant Andrea Birch, DI, with her mother, Sue Birch, Theta Chi Chapter alumna initiate www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

C H APTER I NSTA L L AT I ON

“I told my mom that I wanted her to become a member of Alpha Sigma Alpha,” said Andrea. “And I told her I wanted her to be initiated with the Methodist Colony.” As Andrea talked more about Alpha Sigma Alpha and the sorority experience, Sue was thrilled about this opportunity. “I was ecstatic,” exclaimed Sue. “I never knew there was an option for me to join a sorority at this point in my life.” Sue Birch is an occupational therapist and works with children with autism and various special needs. As she approaches retirement, she aspires to continue to work with children with disabilities.

“When I heard about Alpha Sigma Alpha’s partnerships with the Special Olympics and the S. June Smith Center, I was thrilled to have more connections to volunteer opportunities that are near and dear to my heart. This sorority seemed like a perfect fit for me.” Sue attended the Sanctuary Degree Service with the women of the Methodist Colony. She felt privileged to be a charter alumna initiate. The ceremony was emotional for everyone in the sanctuary at Gardners United Methodist Church that morning. “As Andrea pinned her mom, we were all blinking tears back,” said charter initiate Erika Henriksen. March 29, 2014, is a day that Sue will never forget. “After being a part of the whole installation weekend and getting to meet so many wonderful women, I feel so blessed to be welcomed into this beautiful sisterhood!” Not four years, but for life As the Theta Chi Chapter was forming in January 2014, they were very fortunate to immediately connect with local alumnae. Several passionate Alpha Sigma Alpha women have been supporting the group through their colonization journey. Cindy Kelley, BP, past national president, Erin Maurer, EQ and Mary Neale Marler, BE were all instrumental in coaching and motivating the group of women at Methodist University. Mary Neale Marler of Hope Mills, NC, joined the Beta Epsilon Chapter of Alpha Sigma Alpha at Madison College (now James Madison University) in the fall of 1959. Five years after she graduated, approximately 10 of her chapter sisters started using an inventive way to keep in touch with each other. From 1967 until today, Mary and her chapter sisters have continued to communicate by writing letters. They use a chain-letter system: upon receiving the group of letters, each woman adds a new note to the batch and takes out her old one. “We call it the gang letter. I always get so excited when the gang letter finally makes it to my mailbox,” explained Mary. “That’s how I’ve kept up with my sisters’ marriages, children, jobs, grandchildren… you name it! It is still important for us to keep up even when we live far apart and our college days are far behind us.”

Charter initiate Taylor Brown with National President Nora M. Ten Broeck.

Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Summer 2014

Outside of keeping in touch with some chapter sisters, Mary has not been involved with Alpha Sigma Alpha since she graduated in 1962. When she heard about the colony coming to Methodist University, she jumped at the opportunity to help. Upon meeting the new members in January 2014, Mary gave each new member a home-made red and white bracelet and explained the importance of lifetime commitment in Alpha Sigma Alpha. “The moment that Mary told us she still keeps up with her sorority sisters was when I realized that this organization was much more than a club I would be involved in during college,” charter initiate Shannon Brown explained. “This organization will definitely benefit me for life.” “I’m so happy that Mary came to us,” said charter initiate Ilisha Housh. “She is such a sweet woman, and we are beyond blessed to have her as an advisor.” THETA CHI FUN FACTS A lpha Sigma Alpha is the second Panhellenic group to join the Greek community at Methodist University, joining Alpha Delta Pi. C harter initiates are from North Carolina, Virginia, Massachusetts, Ohio, Washington, DC, Florida, Connecticut, Arizona, Portugal, Alberta and Yemen. A lpha Sigma Alpha is the most culturally diverse fraternal organization at Methodist University. Nearly 50 percent of the charter initiates are student athletes. A lpha Sigma Alpha received its charter faster than any other fraternal organization in Methodist University history. Ten of the charter initiates have gone on service trips in the past year to various locations including Guatemala, Nicaragua, Ecuador and Haiti. C harter initiates are involved in extracurricular activities including student government, peer mentors, residence life, chemistry club, biology club, student activities committee, fellowship of Christian athletes, women’s Bible study and many more. C harter initiate Taylor Ross was crowned Greek Goddess during Methodist University’s fraternity/sorority week.

Installation gifts and donations sponsored by: Past National President Diane James, HH; Zeta Phi Chapter, Illinois Institute of Technology; Tidewater Alumnae Chapter, VA; Washington, DC, Alumnae Chapter Charter members Kyashia Harris and Esra’a Al-Shawafi posing with National President Nora M. Ten Broeck at the white luncheon. www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

District Day 2014-15

This year’s District Day theme is inspired by the Ritual of Alpha Sigma Alpha.

“You are to make strict demands of yourselves. You must be prudent and steadfast in defending the ideals to which you stand pledged. Your charge now is to prove that the confidence that has been placed in you is deserved. If your allegiance is undivided, if your loyalty is true and constant, then you will be a distinct contribution: an energizing influence in every phase of endeavor.” We are thrilled to announce that we are partnering with CAMPUSPEAK and Dr. Jeff Belkora to bring “The Science of Smart Decisions” to District Day. 16

Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Summer 2014

JobBound Alpha Sigma Alpha is excited to continue partnering with JobBound Training Solutions, to provide exceptional workshops and resources for juniors, seniors and alumnae. There will be two different workshops offered during the afternoon educational sessions of District Day 2014-15: “Rocking your resume!” and “Crushing your interview!” Registration opens Aug. 1. Register soon! Registration will be available in August 2014. Alumnae register at www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org. Collegiate chapters register on the Officer Portal.

Regular registration - $50 per person Late registration - $60 per person Onsite registration - $80 per person

SAVE THE DATE! District 2 - Nov. 1, 2014 - Philadelphia District 3 - Nov. 8, 2014 - Pittsburgh District 4 - Feb. 7, 2015 - Richmond, VA District 5 - March 28, 2015 - Fort Wayne, IN District 6 - Jan. 31, 2015 - Memphis, TN District 7 - March 7, 2015 - Dallas District 8 - Nov. 15, 2014 - Milwaukee District 9 - Feb. 21, 2015 - Kansas City, MO

A D V I S O R I N S T I TUTE

aren aw f l e s ess

g tability n i r un o

envreirlation o n m

Did you know all collegiate chapters are reimbursed for two advisors to attend the program? Take advantage of this opportunity to enhance your collegiate and volunteer experience. Plan ahead to travel with fellow advisors and incorporate this into your annual training programs.

COST AND REGISTRATION Registration opens August 2014

& fo ips a ste c sh ent c

Regular registration - $50/person

Advisor Institute 2014-15 Alpha Sigma Alpha is partnering with Growth Guiders LLC for a second year to offer the 2014-15 Advisor Institute. More than 80 advisors benefited from the institute in 2013-14.

“I have learned a lot about different types of conflict management and behavior styles that have helped me to identify various needs for each of the women in the chapter, as well as in my personal life/job.” “It was extremely well done. A lot of research went into the planning of this presentation, and I appreciate the time and effort.”

- 2013-14 Advisor Institute participants

Sneak peek at what Alpha Sigma Alpha and Growth Guiders LLC has in store for 2014-15: •B lock 1: Increasing the advisor’s sense of self-awareness as it relates to their approach, style and mindset when working with collegians and other volunteers. •B lock 2: Focus on relationships and environment that will push and/or pull the advisor in and out of her comfort zone. • Block 3: Fostering accountability by focusing on the concepts of ritual, respectful relationships, a conflict resolution model and an accountability model.

Registration is reimbursed for two advisors per chapter following the Advisor Institute. Late registration - $60/person  On-site registration - $80/person DATES The Advisor Institute will continue to run concurrently with the District Days events District 2 - Nov. 1, 2014 - Philadelphia District 3 - Nov. 8, 2014 - Pittsburgh District 4 - Feb. 7, 2015 - Richmond, VA District 5 - March 28, 2015 - Fort Wayne, IN District 6 - Jan. 31, 2015 - Memphis, TN District 7 - March 7, 2015 - Dallas District 8 - Nov. 15, 2014 - Milwaukee District 9 - Feb. 21, 2015 - Kansas City, MO

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

FEATU RE

Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Summer 2014

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FROM THE How a Delta Delta Delta helped shape Alpha Sigma Alpha An interview with the women who led the evolution of Alpha Sigma Alpha BY MARIANNE BUSCH BULLOCK, BQ, PAST NATIONAL PRESIDENT AND SUE ZORICHAK, BB, EDITOR OF “THE YEARS BEHIND US: A HISTORY OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA 1901-2001”

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

FEATU RE

“YOU ARE A

MEMBER

OF A STRONG SORORITY, ONE THAT RANKS WITH THE

BEST IN THE COUNTRY.

LIVE IT, TALK IT,

DREAM IT, WORK FOR IT. IN NO OTHER WAY CAN YOU SO EFFECTIVELY CONVINCE OTHERS OF

meet

Pearl WE FIRST MET PEARL IN “THE YEARS BEHIND US: A HISTORY OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA 1901-2001.” THE “EVERY MEMBER” WHO MAKES A DIFFERENCE, PEARL INTRODUCED READERS TO THE VARIOUS CHAPTERS IN THE SORORITY’S 100YEAR HISTORY.

Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Summer 2014

ITS BEAUTY, ITS GREATNESS

AND ITS POWER.” How many times have we seen this quote from the Sept. 16, 1916, Phoenix magazine? Like so many other elements of our sisterhood, these words frame our history and helped form the Sorority. But who wrote it? Alpha Sigma Alpha history buffs know that Ida Shaw Martin served as our national president from our reorganization in 1914 until 1930. She also edited the Phoenix from 1914 until 1920. But beyond those who take the time to study our roots, not many know that Ida also founded Delta Delta Delta Fraternity in 1888 when she was known as Sarah Ida Shaw, a 21-year-old junior at Boston University. Pearl knows. And Pearl believes that Ida wrote those famous lines in that early Phoenix. Pearl returns to interview arguably the two most influential figures in the Sorority’s early years: Ida Shaw Martin and Wilma Wilson Sharp, ZZ, president emerita. Ida was a commanding and authoritative presence in the fraternal community, and Wilma was known for her skilled leadership and gentle nature. Based on what we know from their influence, writings and the comments of those who worked with them, they could not have been more different. But each, in her own way, was instrumental in helping steer Alpha Sigma Alpha to where it is today. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that we would not have survived without Ida and that we could not survive with her.

Pearl: Mrs. Martin, when and how did you become involved with Alpha Sigma Alpha? ISM: I graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Boston University in 1889 and served as Tri Delta’s grand president from that year until 1893. During the 1904-05 school year, I sent my first communication to Alpha Chapter. I was well-known in the fraternity world as editor of the Sorority Handbook, first published in 1907 with a copyright of 1905. I explain the time lag in the handbook’s preface: “The writer had intended to send her manuscript to press a year sooner, but was hindered by serious illness.” Pearl: Even though you founded Delta Delta Delta, were you also a member of Alpha Sigma Alpha? ISM: In a way, yes. I continued to counsel Alpha Sigma Alpha during the next nine years. Near the end of this period, 191214, I charted a new course for Alpha Sigma Alpha when the Sorority nearly fell into nonexistence. In 1913, I was elected to Alpha Sigma Alpha honorary membership. At the reorganizational convention of 1914, members elected me as national president, and I served in this capacity until 1930. Along the way, I created the chapter naming system, authored the ritual, constitution and bylaws and supported the bankrupt sorority with my own funds. I also created the Phoenix and served as its editor from 1914 to 1919. During this period, I also served as the first chairman of the Association of Pedagogical Sororities from 1915 to 1917. Pearl: Mrs. Martin, we know that while you were our national president, you rewrote our ritual. Where did you get your inspiration for that? ISM: I’d like to say that I copied and pasted it from the first edition of the Sorority Handbook, which you know I authored. Good ideas are meant to be reused. If you look on Page 51 of that first edition in 1907, you can read for yourself where that inspiration came from: “According to the popular idea, self-

confidence is the only requisite for leadership, but he who would be master over others must first be master over himself. Self-control is likewise indispensible. … “Christ’s message to the world was the beauty of service, the sacredness of leadership. There were many tones in that harmonious Life, but the key-note was self-sacrifice. Self-sacrifice recognizes the need for responsibility. Self-sacrifice recognizes the need for patience. Self-sacrifice recognizes the need for sympathy. Self-confidence, then, is creative, self-control restrictive, self-sacrifice persuasive. Leadership that possesses all three qualities cannot fail to bring success with honor and peace.” The point I was making is that a strong leader can be counted on at all times. These words became part of Alpha Sigma Alpha’s culture when we started working together, and members demonstrate this in their communities daily. Pearl: Did you have a role in changing our original badge which we used from 1901 to 1903 to the diamond shape that identifies our members today? ISM: If you know your history, then you know that I did not have anything to do with that. During the 1903-04 school year, the members themselves changed the badge to its current shape, because they believed that the shield version “was not quite dignified.” Plus, I didn’t contact your Alpha Chapter until the 1904-05 school-year. Pearl: Getting back to the 1907 edition of the Sorority Handbook, it says that our colors were crimson and gray and that our flower was the American Beauty rose. Did you have a say in changing the colors and flowers to what they are today? ISM: I see that I am getting blamed for that too. The truth is, at your 1909 convention

in Natural Bridge, VA, members changed the Sorority’s flower from white carnation to American Beauty rose and the jewel from emerald to ruby “to harmonize with the colors.” I do not know when the American Beauty rose was dropped as the Sorority’s flower. I will say, though, that after the 1914 national convention in Miami, OH, we decided that as a result of a national council study, the aster and the narcissus would be more appropriate to the Sorority’s ritualistic plan than the chrysanthemum and daffodil. Strategy for extension: The Association of Educational Sororities

Pearl: Please tell us about the Association of Educational Sororities (AES) and Alpha Sigma Alpha’s involvement. ISM: At the time of the reorganization in 1914, Alpha Sigma Alpha had been floundering because of its young leadership, lack of finances and anti-fraternal sentiment on many campuses. In fact, Lina Wakefield Mattison Mahon, G, your national president from 1908 to1912, believed that negotiations were almost complete for Alpha Sigma Alpha to be acquired by Delta Delta Delta when she stepped down as national president. Obviously, that did not occur, and I felt that Alpha Sigma Alpha could not compete on larger campuses. Strategically, the Sorority decided to focus on establishing chapters in what were then called “normal schools,” which were essentially teachers colleges. Pearl: It seems a little too coincidental that, when you took over in 1914, you chose as our jewel the pearl. ISM: Very astute, Pearl. Yes, that’s also Delta Delta Delta’s jewel. On the Tri Delta website, you can read that “The pearl is the jewel of Tri Delta. It was chosen to symbolize the new member, because it is the one jewel that grows, developing from a tiny grain of sand into a thing of great value and beauty.” www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

FEATU RE Pearl: But the crests of the two sororities are also remarkably similar, and you created them both around the time of our reorganization. Were you in fact positioning Alpha Sigma Alpha to be acquired by Tri Delta? After all, using similar symbols would ease the transition for members who might one day change their sorority affiliation. ISM: Well, you must admit that it would have helped the cause. But getting back to your main question about AES: I corresponded with Sigma Sigma Sigma with the idea of securing uniformity of standards in matters of common interest. The two groups deferred to my experience and leadership and prevailed upon me to be chairman of AES, which was founded in 1915. After closing your Alpha and Alpha Gamma chapters, Alpha Sigma Alpha limited membership to women attending four-year teachers colleges and encouraged other AES members to do the same. The strategy led to 41 chapters being installed from 1919 to 1947. Pearl: Given the apparent success of that strategy, why did the sorority withdraw from AES in 1929? ISM: It seems that the members did not like or appreciate how I chose to run things. Tensions began to build and finally boiled over in 1930. Ironically, the 1930 national convention in Boston, where I lived, was the first convention I actually attended. It ended up also being my last. On June 30, as the convention was about to convene, one could say that I refused to meet to discuss the issues. To protect my interests, I even hired plain-clothed policemen to barricade the convention meeting rooms. Members who didn’t side with me eventually secured a new room, and their first order of business was to nominate and elect Wilma Wilson Sharp, ZZ, to serve as national president.

Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Summer 2014

Wilma Wilson Sharp

Mrs. Martin died May 11, 1940. She was inducted into the Fraternity Hall of Fame in 1976. Pearl: Mrs. Sharp, can you comment on our withdrawal from AES? WWS: The Sorority withdrew from AES in May 1929 without consent of national council or the vote of the collegiate chapters. Our members were not aware that the presidents of the Association of Teachers Colleges (ATC) were raising questions about educational sororities in general and Alpha Sigma Alpha in particular. At their May 1929 ATC meeting, 21 of the presidents from the 23 schools where Alpha Sigma Alpha had chapters signed a request for these chapters to investigate the sorority’s administration because of their concerns about finances and autocratic control under Ida’s leadership.

Pearl: What was our response to that? WWS: These concerns led directly to the events at the 1930 convention. Faced with the possibility of our chapters being banned from campuses, Alpha Sigma Alpha members wrested control from Mrs. Martin. That’s when I was elected president. The account in our 100-year history truly portrays the drama, intrigue and intimidating atmosphere at that event. Imagine having plain-clothed policemen barricading rooms at convention. Pearl: Yes, it is quite the story. After your election as national president in 1930, what was your primary focus? WWS: We had quite a task ahead of us, but the national council’s first concern was sorority administration. We faced the closure of 15-year-old Delta Delta Chapter at Ohio University, because all groups on

campus were urged by the dean of women to “give up their chapters and become NPC groups by petition or amalgamation.” Economic conditions during the Depression and increased training demanded by education departments made competition for members too difficult on campuses where NPC groups also recruited members. Holding dual membership was a financial strain for young women, and AES member organizations suffered. That was another threat to the survival of Alpha Sigma Alpha. Pearl: Mercy. What happened to that chapter? WWS: The Delta Delta girls felt that their sorority was Alpha Sigma Alpha and refused to take action as a group, although it was necessary to cease existence as an Alpha Sigma Alpha chapter. Upon the invitation of Phi Mu, part of the membership affiliated with that group but remained loyal to Alpha Sigma Alpha as members. Pearl: Is it true that we lost the names of our Founders during Ida’s years as president? WWS: Sadly, yes. But during the 1932 national convention in Estes Park, CO, I had the pleasure of announcing those names. Another exciting development during that convention was the increasing effort to reclaim our Alpha Chapter, which had existed as the local Delta Sigma Chi since 1919. In January 1933, we received a petition for reinstatement from Delta Sigma Chi and reinstalled that group as Alpha Chapter during the weekend of May 19-21, 1933. A new strategy: membership in the National Panhellenic Conference

Pearl: So what did you do to help ensure the sorority’s survival? WWS: In 1935, Alpha Sigma Alpha shaped her course so that, in a changing and critical

educational world, we had a valuable and unquestionable contribution to make to the development of our members. The Sorority worked to ensure and then enlarge its sphere. Two years later, AES and the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) met, and NPC agreed not to compete in the AES market and to establish a cooperative, nongoverning relationship with the professional organizations. Then in 1947, Alpha Sigma Alpha, Alpha Sigma Tau and Sigma Sigma Sigma became provisional members of NPC after the nostalgic dissolution of AES was mutually agreed upon. We made this bold move along with the leadership of Maude E. Hill, Alpha Sigma Tau, and Mabel Lee Walton, Sigma Sigma Sigma. Pearl: Were there other effects of this decision? WWS: The decision meant that Alpha Sigma Alpha would need to have chapters only at Association of American Universities accredited campuses, which led to the closure of Gamma Gamma, Beta Gamma, Beta Eta and Beta Xi Chapters, because they were not able to meet the standards by the deadline. We eventually reinstated those chapters in 1949. In addition, members could no longer hold dual membership in Alpha Sigma Alpha and another NPC member organization. We don’t know how many members gave up their Alpha Sigma Alpha membership during the transition, but by joining NPC, we secured our future in the broader sorority movement. Pearl: When did the sorority gain full membership in NPC? WWS: Now dear, all Alpha Sigma Alphas should know that in 1951, NPC admitted us, Alpha Sigma Tau and Sigma Sigma Sigma to full membership, along with

Alpha Epsilon Phi, Theta Phi Alpha, Phi Sigma Sigma, Sigma Delta Tau and Delta Phi Epsilon. These groups, along with 18 others, comprise the total membership of NPC today. I was honored to serve as our first NPC delegate, holding office from 1947 to 1957. Pearl: Mrs. Sharp, can you tell us about the societal role of Alpha Sigma Alpha? WWS: The day after the horrendous attack on Pearl Harbor Dec. 7, 1941, the United States declaration of World War II came over the air waves as I was sitting at my desk trying to do routine office work for the Sorority. I could do no less than turn to the thing at hand—my own tasks. Love reaches out with stronger bonds during times of anxiety and trouble, and this is what our members do for each other and for the larger community. Alpha Sigma Alpha must always encourage members to courageously and faithfully keep to their work and lives. The discipline that results from a self-imposed calmness and the personal preparedness that comes from an inner courage and stability allows our members to serve whenever or wherever they are called. Pearl: Finally, what would you say are your most enduring legacies to the Sorority? WWS: I really love the beautiful and inspirational memorial service, which is still used to honor deceased members. But I must admit that another piece of my writing, The Creed of Alpha Sigma Alpha, is my most visual and perhaps most longlasting contribution to the Sorority. Mrs. Sharp died July 16, 1988, at age 88 in Overland Park, KS.

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

LE ADERS NSS ULTAN T S DI S TRI HI CTP NCEOW

2 1 4

3 1. T he Beta Iota Chapter, Radford University, VA, volunteered at the local Special Olympics basketball tournament. The chapter was assigned two teams to work with and cheer for, and the athletes responded positively as we cheered them on and stuck around to say congratulations to them at the end. Back row from left to right: Emily Moore, Sydney Slaughter, Hannah Shaffer, Christin Lawrence, Ashton Cox, Laura Peterson, Jennifer Lucas, Colleen Gillooly, Haley Goins, Alice Wren, Linnea Markson. Middle row: Elizabeth Cragg, Anna Pankow, Breana Hobbs, Andrea Van Kerckhove, Vannika You, Courtney Hairston, Kelly McMullen, Mary LaVacca, Jennifer Solana. Front row: Mary Meier, Natalie Goffredo, Tyler Gregory.

Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Summer 2014

2. M embers of the Beta Lambda Chapter at the University of Central Arkansas on the ice skating rink at their Freezinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in February sisterhood event. From left to right: Kaleigh Angleton, Sarah Atkins, Jordan Fletcher, Maddie Spickard, Hannah Lassiter, Callie Clifton, Christina Griffin, Hannah Ray and Jenni Goodwin. 3. T he Delta Upsilon Chapter at the University of Texas at San Antonio held a campus fundraising event and raised more than $11,000 for Special Olympics. Representatives and athletes from the local Special Olympics chapter visited the chapter where they presented a formal check of the donation.

4. T he Theta Eta Chapter at Rogers State University, OK, held a spring mother/daughter tea. Chapter members enjoyed meeting and getting to know the mothers of each member. 5. T he newly installed West Michigan Alumnae Chapter held their first formal meeting in spring 2014. Women from different collegiate chapters were thrilled to begin this new stage of alumnae chapter membership with Alpha Sigma Alpha.

8 6. T he Central Pennsylvania Alumnae Chapter hosted a Farmville Four luncheon in April 2014. Women from Sigma Sigma Sigma Fraternity, Kappa Delta Sorority, Zeta Tau Alpha Fraternity and Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority celebrated the founding of each organization at Longwood University, VA. The luncheon included a raffle where money raised was donated to the National Panhellenic Conference Foundation.

9 7. F our Beta Epsilon alumnae attended their 50th college reunion last year at James Madison University, VA. The ties remain strong after many years and some miles apart. Left to right: Betty Harrington Griffiths, Ellen Childers, Mary Katherine Neal Marler and Bobbie Yates Blesse. 8. T he Jacksonville Alumnae Chapter, FL, participated in the winter Girls on the Run 5k event and volunteered alongside women of the Theta Mu Chapter at Valdosta State University, GA. From left to right: Kim Benson, ΔN-B, Lyla Byers, ΘM, “Dot” - Kellie Temples, ΘM, Jane Chafin, PP, and Toni Weatherford, BΛ.

9. T he Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter (NOVA) was thrilled to perform an alumnae initiation for Christine Torbert in spring 2014. Back row: Cindy Ryan, ΔI, Abbey Rowe Erwin, ΘB, and Emily Koellner, ZΦ. Front row: Nita Lalla Roncone, ET, Crystal Campos-Rosales, ZΣ, Christine Torbert, ET, Michelle Cann, NN, and Natasha Jackson, ΘΓ.

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

LE ADERS NSS ULTAN T S DI S TRI HI CTP NCEOW

2 4 1

3 6

8 9 11

Congrats graduates! Welcome to alumnae membership! 1. E psilon Epsilon Chapter, Emporia State University, KS 2. B eta Lambda Chapter, University of Central Arkansas 3. B eta Nu Chapter, Murray State University, KY 4. D elta Upsilon Chapter, University of Texas at San Antonio 5. E psilon Upsilon Chapter, California University of Pennsylvania 6. G amma Lambda Chapter, Loyola University, IL 7. G amma Phi Chapter, St. Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s University, NY 8. Z eta Eta Chapter, Rockhurst University, MO

Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Summer 2014

9. T heta Beta Chapter, Roanoke College, VA 10. T heta Delta Chapter, University of Alaska-Anchorage 11. T heta Kappa Chapter, Texas A&M University-Kingsville 12. T heta Sigma Chapter, Southern Connecticut State University 13. T heta Tau Chapter, Capital University, OH Update your information on MyASA today: myASA.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

F O U N D AT I O N N E WS

FOUNDATION CHAPTER CHALLENGE 2013-14 Congratulations to all the collegiate and alumnae chapters that participated in Foundation Chapter Challenge during District Day events this year. Thanks to all your hard work and gifts, $16,168 was raised for the Foundation. This will continue to support educational programs for our members.

COLLEGIATE FOUNDATION DONATIONS BEGIN WITH THE 1901 SOCIETY Alpha Sigma Alpha collegians have

What is The Foundation Chapter Challenge? The Foundation Chapter Challenge is an annual competition among all collegiate and alumnae chapters. Chapters plan and complete local fundraisers for the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation. Chapters with the most creative fundraisers and most money raised are awarded prizes at each District Day.

the opportunity to join our exclusive undergraduate member giving club— the 1901 Society. To join, collegians make a donation to the Foundation of $19.01. Money raised by these donations support District Day and convention grants. In 2013-14 the number of 1901 Society members was 410. That is almost $8,000 to educational programming. If all undergraduate members joined the 1901 Society, we could raise

$104,000 for the Foundation. If these undergraduate members

Collegiate chapters from District 3 who participated in the Foundation Chapter Challenge 2013-14.

continued to give $19.01 for all four years, we could raise $416,000.

ALUMNAE MATCHING DONATIONS Passionate alumnae match 1901 Society donations, doubling the amount of the donation and doubling the support for

The Chairman’s Cup, awarded to the chapter that raised the most money per member, is awarded at the national convention & leadership conference. 2013 Chairman’s Cup winner - Beta Beta Chapter, University of Northern Colorado 2014 Chairman’s Cup winner - Delta Nu-A Chapter, Kettering University, MI

grants made by the Foundation. To make a matching 1901 Society gift, contact fndstaff@AlphaSigmaAlpha.org.

For more information on how to get started and participate in the Foundation Chapter Challenge, contact fndstaff@AlphaSigmaAlpha.org for the Chapter Challenge Resource Guide. www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

ASA PAL M S

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

Chi Chi Debbie Yuska recently published her book, Is He a Keeper? Savvy Gal Secrets to Spotting Mr. Wrong and Hooking Mr. Right. This book is the result of a long-held desire to teach women about making healthy relationship choices and empower them with effective tools for attracting the kind of love they want and deserve. Debbie has invested the past 13 years working as an advocate for disadvantaged women and children through Assistance League© of Indianapolis. In 2009, she received the Ada Edwards Laughlin Award in recognition of outstanding service to the organization. To support these efforts, Debbie is donating 10 percent of the proceeds of her book to fight domestic violence and sexual assault. Debbie’s book is available on Amazon.com.

Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Summer 2014

Gamma Xi Susan Cavalline Evans recently published her book, Don’t Write The Obituary Yet, co-written with her doctor, Thomas C. Krivak, a noted gynecologist/oncologist. The book follows her journey with ovarian cancer that started in June of 2012. She is now in successful remission. Susan and her husband, George, have established the EvansKrivak Gynecological Cancer Research and Education Fund to spur further research into the detection and causes of ovarian cancer. All proceeds from the book are donated to the fund. Susan’s book is available from the publisher, Word Association of Tarentum, PA, and is listed on Amazon, Kindle, Nook and eBooks.

Zeta Theta Members of the Zeta Theta Chapter won first place at the Mid-Atlantic International Championship of Collegiate A Cappella (ICCA) quarterfinals at Rutgers University, NJ, in spring 2014 as members of the Wagner College, NY, all-women’s a capella vocal 1 group, Vocal Synergy. Zeta Theta Chapter members are (1) Cassandra White, Natalie Brierre, Elle Brigida and Kayla Jardine-Vistocco. (2) Zeta Theta Chapter members of Vocal Synergy: Cassandra White and Elle Brigida with a chapter sister who came to show support, Amanda Sieferman. Zeta Zeta Amanda Sasek was crowned Miss Kansas in June 2014. She will compete in the nationally televised Miss America competition in Atlantic City, NJ, in September 2014.

Theta Delta Two sisters were crowned at the Miss Alaska competition in June 2014; Malie Delgado was crowned Miss Alaska and JoEllen Walters was crowned Miss Alaska Collegiate. Malie will compete in the nationally televised Miss America competition in Atlantic City, NJ, in September 2014.

Beta Pi Past National President Dr. Rosemary Carucci Goss, the residential property management advisory board professor in the college of liberal arts and human sciences at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech), received the university’s 2014 Alumni Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Academic Advising. Established by the Virginia Tech Alumni Association, the Alumni Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Academic Advising is presented annually by the Office of the Provost to a faculty member who has been particularly dedicated to and effective at advising undergraduate students. Recipients are inducted into the university’s Academy of Advising Excellence.

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

NEWS AND E V E N T S

Hermes Society applications due Sept. 1, 2014 The Alpha Sigma Alpha Hermes Society is an academic honors society created exclusively for members of Alpha Sigma Alpha.

Refer a woman to Alpha Sigma Alpha Do you know a woman who is headed off to a college or university that has an Alpha Sigma Alpha chapter? Does this woman convey herself as a woman of poise and purpose, who commits herself to service, scholarship, leadership and friendship? Refer her to an Alpha Sigma Alpha chapter! Many Alpha Sigma Alpha chapters depend on recruitment referrals to better get to know potential new members. As a collegiate or alumna member of Alpha Sigma Alpha, we need your help to find and refer a woman with Alpha Sigma Alpha personality. To get a recruitment referral form, go to www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org and search “Recruitment Referral.”

Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Summer 2014

To be eligible a member must have: • A minimum of one year membership in Alpha Sigma Alpha • At least a 3.5 cumulative GPA • Academic standing of junior, senior or graduate student To apply, go to www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org and search “Hermes Society.”