2011 Spring CREST

THE CREST The Alumnae Newsletter of Alpha Sigma Tau ~ Spring 2011

Welcome Baltimore Alumnae Chapter IN THIS ISSUE...

From Desk of 2 Insidethe this issue: the Director of Alumnae Pearls to You “Sister” Ann Semel

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The Fulfillment Story ofInside Self

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Chaplain’s Chat: 5 How to Break Up Inside Story 3 with Your Hairdresser Blog All About It 46 Inside Story “AST”onishing 7 Alumna: Inside Story Jessica Gendron 5 Williams, Beta Pi Fidelity to Inside Story Purpose: Board of Trustees

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Inside Story In Tune 79 Keeping

This is Serious: DVT/PE Inside Story

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Gearing Up… 11 Zeta Chapter’s 90th Anniversary 9 Collegiate Chap- 11 ter Highlight: 10 Delta Psi Careers to Love Travelin’ Taus: Baltimore

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Alumnae Asso14 12 ciation Highlight: Northern VA Editor’s Note

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The new Baltimore Alumnae Chapter (and fellow Alpha Sigma Taus) at their re-installation banquet on February 26, 2011.

From the Desk of the National President...

Dear Sisters, Fulfillment of Self … Alpha Sigma Taus explore and understand our core values, our ritual, and the deepest meaning of Sisterhood through the development of the membership.

Alpha Sigma Tau has a unique opportunity to be the “glue” that brings together a member’s academic knowledge and life experiences to help her attain fulfillment of self.

Knowing that membership development was the first strategic area of focus that our members wanted to address, the Sorority engaged in the creation of programs for members at every point on their journey of Sisterhood.

This January, the Sorority began relationships with several partners to provide our members with layers of cutting -edge member development opportunities.

The Sorority has partnered with The LI (The Leadership Institute – Women with Purpose, www.theleadershipinstitute-wwp.org) to develop and implement unique life-long learning programs for Alpha Sigma Tau members. The programs will be available in a variety of formats and venues from on-line, self-paced programs, to national education events. Research will begin soon and program implementation will take place over a long-term plan.

Officer Academy will be taking on a new format this year to help fulfill parts of the membership development and growth and retention objectives. You’ll see the LI working with collegians and their advisors for this event – and the topics won’t include “how to complete” the CEP forms! Instead, we’ll be talking about how to coach members and develop current and future leaders for the chapter as well as providing topics that help advisors “advise” chapters!

The Sorority has also partnered with Recruitment Boot Camp to take many of the values-based lessons chapter members will learn at the OA and tie them directly into recruitment skills. Members ~ Continued on Page 2~

Continued from Page 1: From the Desk of the National President... will become experts at identifying and connecting with potential new members whose values match that of Alpha Sigma Tau. Alpha Sigma Tau is offering unique service-leadership experiences for collegiate members with the Association of Fraternal Leadership and Values and The Leadership Institute - Women with Purpose by offering one member a full scholarship for the event in New Orleans, LA, May 23-28, 2011.

With the focus of the program being Habitat for Humanity, Alpha Sigma Tau’s national service project, it is our hope that many collegians will participate. (http://www.alphasigmatau.org/news-and-events/news/sorority-news/246-sorority-announces-service-immersion-scholarship).

We will be giving a full scholarship to one UIFI (Undergraduate Interfraternity Institute) attendee for this summer. At UIFI, fraternity men and sorority women create opportunities to explore, define, and enhance their leadership skills, personal awareness, commitment to their fraternity or sorority, and grow to expect values based action from themselves and those they lead. (http://www.nicindy.org/programs/uifi/).

And these are not just one time, one event interactions, but multi-year relationships that will add breadth and depth to services and support of every chapter… and this is just the beginning!

Expect more than others think possible!

Christina Covington, Alpha Lambda National President Alpha Sigma Tau Sorority

Alpha Sigma Taus gather at the National Panhellenic Conference: Chris Covington, President; Beth McOsker, NPC Delegate; Jamie Miller, NPC 2nd Alternate Delegate; Joanne Walter, NPC 3rd Alternate Delegate and new to the delegation; Janet Dodson, NPC Foundation Board of Directors; Jessica Gendron Williams, Phired Up; and Carol Mooney, NPC 1st Alternate Delegate.

From the Desk of the Director of Alumnae Alpha Sigma Tau started off the new year with a lot of great momentum and I'm pleased to share a few highlights with you. I was honored to attend two celebrations of our exceptional sisterhood early this year. Collegians and alumnae gathered in South Bend, IN in January to celebrate the installation of the Epsilon Lambda Chapter at Indiana University, South Bend. This was the first time in recent history that the entire National Council installed a chapter and the newly initiated members rose to the occasion. The Baltimore Alumnae Chapter was re-installed on February 26, 2011 at a celebration that brought together alumnae from Maryland and Virginia and was attended by representatives from the Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter. These two new chapters will provide our collegiate and alumnae members with an outstanding Alpha Sigma Tau experience.

This spring, all Alpha Sigma Taus celebrated our sisterhood on International Badge Day. The National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) sponsors International Badge Day each March during Women's History Month. This year, Badge Day was held on March 7, 2011 with the theme "Keep Your Fraternal Experience Close to Your Heart." Over the past two years, the celebration has gone virtual, offering Panhellenic women the chance to celebrate if they are not able to be with their sisters.

Alpha Sigma Taus changed their Facebook/Twitter profile pictures to a photo of our badge and changed their status on Facebook o to read, “Keeping the fraternal experience close to my heart by celebrating International Badge Day in 2011." Over 70,000 women RSVPed to the International Badge Day Facebook event and shared their photos, celebrations, and thoughts about International Badge Day. Twitter users also included marking their posts with #intlbadgeday. I hope you wore your Alpha Sigma Tau badge with pride on Badge Day! I look forward to many more celebrations of our exceptional sisterhood in 2011!

In sisterhood, Jamie Jones Miller, Psi Page 2

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Pearls to You, “Sister” Ann Semel

By Stephanie Sanders, Beta Theta, Staff Writer

Sister Ann claims that Alpha Sigma Tau will always have a place in her heart. She declared Beta Theta shines among the women of the university being confident an d career-driven.

Beta Theta of St. Mary’s University (Texas) bid farewell to the chapter’s founding advisor and one of the university’s original female advocates, Sister Ann Semel, S.S.N.D., Ph. D. Sister Ann announced her retirement during the local celebration of Alpha Sigma Tau’s National Founder’s Day luncheon in San Antonio, Texas.

The New Orleans native retreated to Chatawa, Mississippi for her retirement. Although, not an initiated sister of Alpha Sigma Tau, Sister Ann continues to live a purposeful and self-fulfilling life, true definition of a Tau.

A part of the St. Mary’s community since 1967, and only the third female faculty member hired at the university, Sister Ann was a powerhouse that supported women in higher education.

Therefore when Alpha Sigma Tau expanded to the campus in 1976 it is no surprise that she accepted the invitation to advise Beta Theta and to assist in contributing to the progress of mankind.

Sister Ann’s legacy includes The Alice Franzke Feminist Award, the Sister Ann Semel Endowed Scholarship Fund, “first scholarship established at St. Mary’s University in the name of a female faculty member”, eight publications, and, of course, developing the character of the Beta Theta chapter.

Pearls to you Sister Ann Semel!

Membership Development: The Fulfillment of Self

By Allison Bressler, Alpha Tau Alumnae & Volunteer Services Coordinator A curriculum, by definition, is a series of courses offered by an institution or can be defined as a set of courses constituting an area of specialization (Merriam-Webster On-line Dictionary 2011). Think for a moment; take institution out of the definition and insert Alpha Sigma Tau Sorority.

Then, think of the area of specialization as membership development, specifically for Alpha Sigma Tau. A curriculum, by definition, is a series of course offered by Alpha Sigma Tau Sorority to promote membership development. As the Sorority moves forward executing the strategic plan, the area of focus: Membership Development remains the first priority. It will be reflected in how Headquarters Staff and volunteers spend their time and how the Sorority budgets financially over the course of the

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next several years. Alpha Sigma Tau is taking a curriculum approach to develop members.

When asking alumnae how they would like to describe Alpha Sigma Tau women, words often used include: polished, professional, confident and strong. Alumnae often comment that they would like to see more support offered to collegians so they may graduate and have great personal and professional success.

livering innovative programming to the Sorority’s top collegiate leaders and chapter advisors. Ongoing programming plans are in the works to develop a life-learning curriculum to Alpha Sigma Tau’s everywhere. Additional partnerships are being negotiated to ensure each Alpha Sigma Tau sister has the opportunity to grow, personally and professionally, beyond expectations, through her involvement as a member.

Alpha Sigma Tau attempts to create an environment where women will learn, outside of the classroom, the skills needed to achieve fulfillment of self. Success in life does not have one definition – it is defined in the mind of the beholder. Alpha Sigma Tau seeks to help women achieve their idea of success through its offered programming and experiences.

In the coming weeks and months, more information will be shared about upcoming opportunities for membership development in Alpha Sigma Tau. Officer Academy is de-

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AST & Me: Shelly Marie Redmond, National Vice President

By Shelly Marie Redmond Alpha Sigma Tau Sorority. I will forever hold Alpha Sigma Tau sorority close to my heart. From the 18 year old naive collegian, to the professional woman I am today, Alpha Sigma Tau has helped shaped my life personally and professionally.

Growing up in a very small town, I considered myself to be a bit ‘sheltered.’ I didn’t have the pleasure of having a mall or even a stop light in my little tiny town. The first in my family to enroll in college and the first to become Greek, I was seen as a little ‘odd’ to the members of my family. I was seen as the family member with those weird ‘letters’ on my shirt. Often said by my family, ‘Shelly, What is AZT?’ and then followed by blank stares when explaining the meaning of a sorority.

Seen to most as journey of friendships and love, which is very true in my case, (my best friend to this day) a fabulous ‘pledge’ class sister, Susan Mitchell, and I became instant besties. Susan and I quickly became roommates in a very lovely housing establishment, otherwise known as a dorm. It was around that time we met Jamie Jones (notice, not Miller, yet!). Jamie was our part of our inspiration to become exceptional sorority women, and the other part of us to have a professional career and leave home (Susan now works as a marketing manager at a bank in Jackson, MS). Susan and I parted ways for grad school (she attended Mississippi State and I attended Louisiana Tech), but we still stayed in touch. One wedding, one funeral, and an upcoming baby; Susan and I will always be there for each other and hold the green and gold close to our hearts.

But sometimes, there is an unseen journey of sisterhood. It’s the one which develops you professionally. Alpha Sigma Tau was my first flight. My first plane ride was to convention (a lady never tells her age, so no year noted please!). Alpha Sigma Tau was my first real leadership experience. While high school may offer student council, and college ‘major‘ organizations offer a ‘meeting‘ once a month (which was usually cake and soda); Alpha Sigma Tau offered real structure and guidance. I was a bit ‘rocky‘ at first, but soon learned Page 4

how to lead others from the structure of meetings and recruitment.

Graduation and transferring to a school without an Alpha Sigma Tau chapter was a bit a bummer, but I continued to use what I learned from Alpha Sigma Tau in my grad school classes, as well as into my career. Most individuals do not realize this, but my degree is in nutrition and dietetics. While most (and I mean most) individuals with a degree in nutrition and dietetics work in a hospital or clinic; I chose a PR route. Called crazy by most to follow a PR route, I used skills learned in Alpha Sigma Tau to help build my road to becoming the CEO of College Lifestyles. I built my road by using the skills of being active - I worked long hours at night while working in the clinic during the day. I used the recruitment skills in ‘talking‘ with others in discussing and pitching PR to news media organizations. Using both leadership and recruitment skills, I was able to pitch to food companies and fashion boutiques in acquiring spokesperson and sponsorship work. Finally, I used the skills of working with various NPC organizations in working with students and understanding ‘college life‘ in developing the BEST internship program and working with interns for College Lifestyles.

What is the best part? I get to pass the wonderful skills of Alpha Sigma Tau to my daughter!

Is AST still a part of me? Yes! Will it always be a part of me? Yes!

Editor’s Note: Shelly was recently quoted with the Fox News Network!

Check out her story at: http://www.foxbusiness.com/personal-finance/2011/03/01/springbreak-budget/

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A Chaplain’s Chat: How to Break Up With Your Hairdresser

By Carole Bicking Keily, Alpha Xi National Chaplain and Staff Writer If you’re like me, you spend a good deal of time with your hairdresser. Whether you go for a cut once a month or so or for color every couple of weeks, that adds up to a lot of hours over the course of a year.

You and your hairdresser may not talk about anything other than the weather or what’s in the latest edition of People or Us Weekly – or you may know everything about each other’s lives.

performance evaluation. Then I learned that there are websites dealing with this topic. Go ahead, Google this topic and you’ll get dozens of hits.

In addition to the performance evaluation, other articles have mentioned blaming the economy (“I can’t afford this salon and longer”), the direct approach (“I’m really not happy with the way my hair looks and I’m going to find another stylist”), or contacting the owner by phone or e-mail.

Dennis was my hairdresser for 18 years. I met him when his family moved in next door; Dennis was just 14 years old. Over the course of his high school years, he got interested in cosmetology and often practiced hair and makeup assignments on me and another neighbor. We both agreed we’d become Dennis’s clients once he’d graduated and had a year or two of experience.

And I did just that. Over the years, I followed Dennis to five different salons – some large, some small. And at first I liked what he did with my hair. He had some great ideas that he got from frequent trips to New York that he used in the color and style of my hair. For years, I was so pleased, not only with my hair, but with the fun we’d have together gabbing about the neighbors and catching up on each other’s families. He’d show me the great pieces of jewelry and really cool electronic gadgets he’d purchased, and we’d swap books and gossip magazines.

This fall, Dennis was sick again when I was due to come in, so the salon owner did my hair. She told me that Dennis was very ill, that he may never recover. Then she went on to tell me that she’d had a lot of complaints about him over the past few months.

I finally had the courage to say that I hadn’t been happy with his work for some time and I really didn’t like the fact that I had to wait, especially when other stylists’ clients did not seem to be waiting.

Sherri, the salon owner, told me that I should have called her to let her know about my concerns. She understood that a client might not want to say anything negative about their hairdresser when the person is standing right there. She said that it is her business and she wants everything to be right for all the salon clients.

I thought this was the best website: http:// www.ivillage.com/how-break-yourhairdresser/5-a-146475. The article advises several things you can do – just tell them you’re not returning, just tell him or her you’re not happy, blame the economy. But do try to give advance notice and do be honest. You’re not doing your hairdresser any favors if you just don’t return with no explanation.

But as the years went on, the great ideas fell by the wayside. It got to be “more of the same”, and I just didn’t feel as great about my hair. We still continued to catch up on each other’s lives, but I was getting tired of listening to the drama of Dennis’s life. I am nothing if not loyal and continued to get my hair done every three weeks.

About a year ago, Dennis started at a brandnew salon owned by a former co-worker. Oh, the place is just beautiful and they’re doing so well in this lousy economy. But I was more and more dissatisfied with my experiences there. I often had to wait a long time for Dennis to finish with the client before me, and my hair always looked exactly the same every time I had it done.

About that time, I came across an article called “How to Break Up with Your Hairdresser”. It talked about giving feedback to your hairdresser as if you were giving a

Last summer, Dennis got sick and one of his co -workers did my hair. I liked what she did.

The color was great and she suggested a slightly different style. Over the summer, I was

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less and less pleased with Dennis and started looking into breaking up with my hairdresser.

It’s even harder to do when you’ve watched the person grow up over the course of 25 years.

Dennis died right after Christmas. At his wake, Sherri told me that she missed me and I blurted out that I found someone in my neighborhood to do my hair. Yes, I know that was the wrong thing to say and the wrong time to say it! I did go visit Sherri a day or two later and let her know that it was tough for me to continue paying salon prices right now. She invited me to come back and visit with them any time, even if someone else was doing my hair.

In honor of this life cut way too short, I offer the following – Be honest with your salon.

Be courteous when you tell them you’re just not happy with something, and be precise when you let them know why. And when you are pleased, let them know.

Breaking up with your hairdresser is not dissimilar from ending a friendship or a relationship or leaving a job. In all situations, you want to end things on a positive note.

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Extra! Extra! ’s Blog All About It

By Joanna Barrett, Epsilon Epsilon, Staff Writer The sorority women of Alpha Sigma Tau have many talents, among them are women who blog on their own websites. These bloggers share their personal experiences, opinions, and insight on a variety of topics. Below are several blog-worthy profiles to check out.

Ashley Berkman, Epsilon Epsilon Ashley, a Connecticut resident and newlywed, blogs about what she knows best – wedding planning. Ashley described herself as a non-traditional bride and enjoyed planning all aspects of her October 2010 wedding.

“I blog because it’s a great way to share my stories and ideas, and get them across to a vast audience,” says Ashley. Her blog is ideal for women (and men) in their 20s and 30s who are trying to plan a wedding on a budget.

Ashley’s blog has suggestions for party favors, food, décor, themes, clothing, and more. She includes commentary from her own experience planning a wedding in only seven months, and also shares insight on her current vow-renewal process. Ashley’s blog shares tidbits of personal Ashley (the bride) with Alpha Sigma Tau sisters information that readers can relate to.

Shonda Brown and Nicole Hanft “I think every woman has a little Carrie Bradshaw in them and if they have something to say then they should say it,” says Ashley. For those who want to try blogging, Ashley says, “Don't be afraid to try it, not everyone will agree with what you say but that's the beauty of it.”

Check out Bridal Dress Confessions at http://confessthedress.blogspot.com Kathy DiNovis Vestermark, Zeta Kathy writes about her faith, being a wife and mother to six children (one with special needs), cooking, and life in general.

“Friends convinced me that I had important things to share with the world and that we are called to be a light to the world via the internet,” says Kathy, who started blogging last year. “I write for Catholics & Christians to be a witness to the faith; I write for anyone who loves to eat -through my recipes; I write for myself -- it's therapeutic.”

“It brings me joy and makes me feel like I am offering insight and perspective on topics that are relevant to faith and life,” says Kathy.

With the power of the internet, Kathy’s audience has spanned globally. She typically writes three or four times a week and also follows numerous other blogs on the internet.

Kathy’s advice to someone who is considering starting a blog is to be sure the blogger has a clear goal and audience in mind, and also to set time limits so the blog doesn’t consume you.

“Don't expect people to comment on every post, so don't let that bother you,” advises Kathy. “Just keep writing about what you love, and let your friends know to pass along your blog address. The best way to get your blog seen by others is to comment on other blogs and invite other bloggers to come and visit yours.”

Check out Faith on the High Wire at http://faithonthehighwire.blogspot.com

As an organization, Alpha Sigma Tau also blogged prior to and during Convention 2010. The sky is the limit when it comes to blog topics, how often blogs are posted, and the vast audience they reach. Will you be the newest blogger on the internet?

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“AST”onishing Alumna: Jessica Gendron Williams, Beta Pi

By Colleen Coffey, Delta Eta, Staff Writer

are lucky to have her as an alumnae member of Alpha Sigma Tau.

Jessica Gendron Williams is the Vice President of the Women’s Division at Phired Up Productions, LLC. Phired Up Productions is a national established company that provides “membership growth solutions to cause-oriented organizations” such as our Alpha Sigma Tau. Jessica brings the Phired Up team a wealth of experience and skill when it comes to organizational recruitment and fraternity/ sorority culture. Jessica is a charming, charismatic and energetic presenter and consultant as evident in her presentation at Alpha Sigma Tau’s convention this past June. Jessica has professional experience working with college students which includes an extensive knowledge base in sorority recruitment, values-based initiatives, and community development. She has a Master of Science in Higher Education and Student Affairs from Indiana University - Bloomington. Jessica is also a co-author of I Heart Recruitment: The Eight Steps to Limitless Possibility for Sororities. During her tenure at Phired Up she has become known as the nation’s expert at sorority recruitment and a powerful force in the education and encouragement of women all over the world.

Jessica’s journey as an Alpha Sigma Tau began during formal recruitment at Eastern Illinois University. She joined the Beta Pi chapter of Alpha Sigma Tau because of the

I asked a few colleagues and friends of Jessica to send me some thoughts about her. I gave little direction and a quick turnaround time. People responded quickly, thoroughly and were happy to sing her praises in some pretty beautiful ways. Here are just a few highlights:

people involved. She became a member of a powerful new member class that worked to make significant positive change to the Beta Pi chapter during their collegiate years. During her tenure, Jess worked with the New Member Education Program and was the Vice-President of Risk Management for the college Panhellenic.

A fun fact about Jessica that not many people know, is that she actually majored in graphic design at EIU. Most things graphically designed at Phired Up are projects for which Jessica has had sole creative responsibility. Jessica is an active member of her church, an involved Aunt to young Rayden, and enjoys distance running. This woman is a dynamic talent in so many areas and we

“I could say a million things about the way Jessica has become one of the most influential, bold, revolutionary women in the sorority movement, about how she has led the transformation of sorority recruitment to be more authentic, values-centered, and inclusive…but I’d rather focus on how much I respect her as a person and as a friend…She has been one of the most true, caring, thoughtful friends I have ever had. She is one of the women in my life that are on the short list of who I want my 2year-old daughter to emulate. I’m grateful to have her in my life, and I’m proud that she has become the face of relationship-focused, values -based sorority recruitment – and Phired Up.” -Matt Mattson, President and Founder, Phired Up Productions “Jessica brings to the table a no nonsense approach to recruitment. Her strategies are 100% successful. Tri Sigma's relationship with Jessica has produced amazing results and we have seen significant growth as an organization utilizing dynamic recruitment. Besides all this, ~ Continued on Page 8~

Left Photo: Jessica and Alpha Sigma Tau sisters (L-R) Colleen Coffey, Carrie Jordan Kass, Jessica, Lauren Markiewicz, and Kristin Kurtenbach Rosendahl.

Right Photo: Jessica hanging out with some collegians after her Phired Up presentation at the 2010 Convention in Birmingham, Alabama.

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Continued from Page 7: “AST”onishing Alumna: Jessica Gendron Williams Jess delivers the content in a fun, engaging way. I am proud that my relationship with Jessica is much more than that of just a client.”

-Kay Schendel, National President, Sigma Sigma Sigma "We always laugh about how people perceive our companies as competitors, and it always raises a few eyebrows when people see Jessica and I sharing a meal at a conference or hanging out. Truth is, she's one of the people I trust most in the industry. We have a blast together, and she's the type of friend and professional who always has your back and puts the crazy in perfect perspective. I love her with all my heart and enjoy every minute we get to hang out."

Above: Jessica with Becca Ozment and Leslie Beard of Alpha Mu at Convention 2010. Jessica guided the chapter recruitment from a chapter of 1 to over 30 in one year.

Right: Jessica marrying the love of her life, Ben, on May 30th, 2009. Notice the flowers?

-T.J. Sullivan, Vice President and CEO, CAMPUSPEAK, Inc. Jessica is more than a remarkable human being. I am personally blessed every single day to call her a best friend, colleague, leader, mentor, and sister. She is absolutely ASTonishing.

Fidelity to Purpose: The Alpha Sigma Tau Trustees We, as your Board of Trustees, were able to meet so many wonderful women at Convention and are proud to have you all as sisters. We only wish that every AΣT could have been there to feel the sisterhood and witness the many changes our Sorority is facing in the name of progress: a new Headquarters, a new Strategic Plan, a new set of Governing Documents, and so many updated internet procedures to name but a few.

Our convention experiences always reassure us as to why our Board exists. Our purpose is one of involvement, commitment, and dedication to Alpha Sigma Tau. We must assure its betterment amidst change. We live in a fast paced world and belong to a fast paced Sorority.

Despite change, we must cherish and maintain the foundation set by our Founders. We must live our ideals, know our purposes, set high our aims and standards, and maintain our traditions, each so intentionally established in our rituals. As we see our future being shaped, we must live in the present while honoring the past, thus allowing that basic foundation to flourish.

The Board of Trustees is an advisory committee which functions to preserve the purpose, ideals, standards, and historical integrity of the Sorority. We rely on the wisdom of our Founders, our Builders, our Sustainers and each of you to keep Alpha Sigma Tau on the right track.

Change is essential. Growth is essential. Yesterday is our dream and tomorrow is our vision. What we are living is today. Change will occur.

As she prepared a part of the history of AΣT, one of our most dedicated sisters, Beverly Bollard, shared these priceless words.

“There is a time for growing, a time for thinking…learning…knowing…A time for Alpha Sigma Tau.” We are facing one such time. Your Board of Trustees will use every golden opportunity available to monitor change for the positive growth of Alpha Sigma Tau. Bobbie Nichols Tucker Patricia L. Nayle Page 8

Mary Glor Bolton

Mary Ellen Willmitch Martha Drouyor DeCamp TH E C REST

Keeping In Tune: Put Your Hands Up, They’re Playin’ Our Song

By Kelli O’Brien, Delta Eta, National Music Coordinator The Phi chapter at Southeastern Louisiana State University has a strong record of writing award-winning AST songs! Most recently, the chapter was awarded second place in the “Original Lyrics, Borrowed Music” category at the 2010 National Convention for “AST Life,” their version of Miley Cyrus’s “Party in the USA.” Enjoy this song during recruitment or any time you want to have some fun!

I was driving my car down College Drive, With my pearls and my cardigan.

Welcome to the land of class and tests, Am I gonna fit in?

Jumped out the car, Here I am for the first time.

Look to my right and I see a sorority sign.

This is all so crazy, Everybody seems so friendly.

My tummy's turnin' and I'm feelin kinda home sick Too much pressure and I'm nervous, That's when I met those Alpha Sigma Taus, And the sisterhood was on, And the sisterhood was on, And the sisterhood was on...

So I put my hands up, Throw a jersey on, Three letters I'll wear every day.

Noddin' my head like, yeah Havin' a good time, yeah I got my hands up, My sisters all around, I know I'm gonna be OK, Yeeeeeeaah, AST life is the way,

Best Practices of Chapter Traditions How does your chapter announce a pinning, an engagement, or even an expecting mother? Throughout the years in Alpha Sigma Tau, this type of announcement has been commonly referred to as a Rose Ceremony or a Candle Lighting. Please send us an email sharing your ceremony or celebration details!

The Sorority is researching and gathering information from our chapters to ultimately provide more resources for every chapter to use.

-Carole Bicking Keily, National Chaplain ckeily@alphasigmatau.org F al l 201 0

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This is Serious: DVT/PE

By Debi Flaig Meeks, Beta Mu Do you know what the acronym stands for? Nor did I – until I landed in the ER and nearly died. Read on to learn about the risk factors of Deep Vein Thrombosis/Pulmonary Embolism and preventive measures to save your life.

History – President’s Weekend 2008; rest and relaxation was the game plan. My family was headed to the mountains and, since we recently vacationed in Seattle and Whistler, Mom elected to stay home. Another ski trip was not on my agenda, particularly with work-related travel commitments.

The R&R weekend did not turn out as planned. After church I took a nap and woke up with a charley horse unlike any I had ever experienced. It was intense – a sharp, burning sensation that literally paralyzed my legs. I cried out, “Dear God, please don’t let me die here by myself.” I passed out before getting to the phone and woke up on the floor with my dog’s wet nose in my face. No doubt she saved my life. Still unable to move my legs, I scooted to the phone and dialed 911 for help.

Meanwhile my neighbor called my husband questioning why an ambulance and fire truck were in the driveway. He was unaware that my family was hours away and I was home alone. They called me en route to the ER with assurances that everything was ok. NOT! Hospital – The ER team ran a series of tests and determined a blood clot traveled from my leg and landed in my lung. I was immediately put on blood thinners and instructed to discontinue hormone medication. Following several days of observation, I was allowed to go home. I knew that DVT/PE was serious when my sister-in-law (a nurse) took off work to stay with me post-hospitalization.

Administering shots in the stomach and living on blood thinners was very challenging. Plus, I was out of work for six weeks.

How? Who knew that being a cancer survivor with minor surgeries placed me at a high risk for blood clots? Traveling cross-country without stretching in the plane did not help, nor did sitting at a desk all day. Obviously a sedentary lifestyle contributed to the weight factor, but the highest risk factor was medication prescribed after my hysterectomy. (Age is irrelevant – could have been birth control pills.) Smoking and family history also are part of the equation.

Help – The Vascular Disease Foundation contacted me to share my story with hopes of increasing awareness and saving lives. The new “This is Serious” campaign is funded by the Centers for Disease and Prevention and the Spirit of Women. Please watch our five-minute video and share it with your network: http:// www.thisisserious.org/ The video production was a family affair. Special thanks to my daughter, Lauren Hall – Beta Mu, for her contribution.

In summary, please be aware of the risk factors of blood clots and spread the word to prevent them. Here’s to healthy living!

Love in AST, Debi

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Zeta Gears Up for her 90th Anniversary at Lock Haven University of PA In 1921, the Zeta chapter was installed at Lock Haven University. Today, the Zeta chapter is still going strong, being the longest, continuous chapter of Alpha Sigma Tau in the nation.

The weekend of April 9th will be one of excitement for the sisters—both collegians and alumnae.

On Friday the chapter will host a reception at the Parsons Union Building.

Highlights of the evening, besides catching up with old friends, is the auctioning off of some chapter items that have been in storage units for years. “You could imagine, after 90 years we’ve accumulated a lot of things” says Colleen Steining, Zeta and Zeta’s Chapter Consultant. “We want sisters to be able to honor these things properly, and that isn’t in a rented storage room” The money raised will go toward the endowment of a Zeta chapter scholarship through our National Foundation.

Ladies won’t be out too late, though, as it will be a bright and early morning with a 5K run/walk beginning at 8AM. The 5K honors Denny Strouse, the ’forever’ sweetheart of the chapter who passed away earlier this year. Money raised will go toward the Zeta Chapter-Denny Strouse Memorial Scholarship. “Denny was always there for us and with this scholarship he will live on forever in all of our hearts and minds” says Colleen.

After a short recovery period, the sisters will meet for a luncheon that will include a rededication ceremony—and of course, more social time!

Zeta chapter alumnae should have already received the mailing concerning the weekends activities and the costs. If you did not receive the mailing, or are collegian or alumnae member that would like to celebrate in this unique accomplishment of Sisterhood, please contact Chapter Advisor, Amy Brooks at ajbrooks293@comcast.net.

Collegiate Chapter Highlight: Delta Psi—Johnson & Wales University, Colorado

By Lauren Welch, Delta Psi, Staff Writer The Delta Psi Chapter at Johnson & Wales University in Denver, Colorado just celebrated their 6 year anniversary in February of 2011. Here are a few highlights of some of their ongoing and upcoming projects on campus and out in the community: Fundraising: The women work with Argus, an event staffing business, working the Broncos Football game to raise money for fundraising efforts: raising around $1,000 a season!

Philanthropy: When it comes to Philanthropy work, they have started working with a local Animal Shelter, along with their continued efforts with Alpha Sigma Tau’s National Philanthropies.

Campus Activities: The ladies are developing an idea of a Risk Management on a topic of sexual abuse, drinking or drugs; where they can invite the entire campus to become educated.

Social: Something else unique to this chapter, the Chapter Advisor does a WWJMD (What Would Jennifer Marshall Do?) at every meeting, where she covers a real life topic for the women to think about, as they face entering the “real world!”. Topics include: tips on staying healthy, budgeting, utilities, searching for an apartment, credit scores, health insurance, student loans and car insurance.

As the only Greek organization on the campus, the Delta Psi Chapter strives to work towards greater Greek support with their fellow classmates and University staff. The Chapter is also working towards greater recruitment and retention year around. Congratulations Delta Psi on your 6 year anniversary, here is to many more!

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Careers To Love

By Vanessa Florence, Zeta, Editor of THE CREST Welcome to our newest article series about Alpha Sigma Tau sisters who truly love their careers. Are you looking for a new career field or are just curious on how one begins a certain career.? If so, this new series, Careers to Love, is for you! Here are our first two career highlights: Being a Photographer Courtney Keim, Beta Upsilon 1995 BS Mathematics & Physics; MA School Administration Courtney never imagined herself ever becoming a photographer. “I’m a teacher with a major in physics and math. I never thought I’d be successful in something that is this creative.,” says Courtney. “I’m a science geek!”

Courtney Keim Photography based in Atlantic City, New Jersey, focuses on on-location, natural light portraits, as well as wedding photography. She states the understanding photography and small business management is a necessity. “I didn’t have any experience in photography, but I had an interest. I learned the trade by reading and reading and reading.”

“I love to photograph beautiful people and capture their life in pictures,” comments Courtney.

“I began with a year of portfolio building. After I gained some experience I decided to charge full prices and was amazed people actually liked my work!”

If you are interested in making photography a career, or would like to see some of her photographs, check out Courtney’s work through her website, courtneykeim.com.

Being a Domestic Goddess Angie (Daubert) Gutekunst, Delta 1993, BS Communications Angie has the toughest job one will ever love, that of a Stay-At-Home Mom, also known as the “Domestic Goddess”. She’s been enjoying this position within the Gutekunst household for the past 8 months, but has been in the career field for 10 years. Being a Domestic Goddess is not for everyone. “This job is trial by fire,” states Angie.

“You learn as you go.” She states that there is lots of smiles and laughs, but also a lot of “sweat and tears” too.

When asked about a job description, Angie cleverly details the duties: “Performs a variety of senior level services in a sometimes chaotic environment with grace, ease, and with little or no bloodshed. Serves as a liaison between husband and children. Acts as a nurse, attorney, judge, psychologist, chauffer, social director, food coordinator, arts and crafts director, cleaning director, and many more duties related to Domestic Goddess.”

“Taking care of my family and home full-time was something I enjoyed,” comments Angie. “It wasn’t until the work I was getting paid for was no longer enjoyable that I realized this (being a Domestic Goddess) was to be my next journey.”

“I love being there for my kids in the morning before they get on the bes, at school when volunteers are needed, and waiting for them when they get off the bus. At night we have more time now to focus on family versus the rat wheel craziness.”

Of course, Angie also states that it wasn’t until they were financially stable that she could take the leap to being a full-time mom. “It was scary at first (to stay home full time) but now I love it. If you asked me ten years ago if this would be where I am today I would have said no. I was a career woman ut when you don’t enjoy what you are doing it isn’t worth it.”

If you have any questions on making the leap to being a full-time mom, feel free to contact Angie at angiemarkgoodie@yahoo.com.

Do you have a career that you love? Tell us about it! Go to: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/8TQDCVL Page 12

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Travelin’ Taus: Welcome to Bawlmer, Hon’!

Submitted by the Baltimore Alumnae Chapter So you say you’re on your way to visit Baltimore? What’s on your itinerary? Oh sure, you can check out the National Aquarium (www.aqua.org) and eat your Ben & Jerry’s as you wander the Inner Harbor. But why don’t you let your Baltimore sisters fill you in on where the locals go!

Baltimore aka Smalltimore is the biggest small town on the east coast. We may be a major port city, but we’ve got hometown charm (the nickname Charm City was coined as part of a city-wide PR campaign in the 1970s)! Forget the cheesy chain restaurants and tourist traps, and follow our lead…

You gotta eat…

Brunch: Little Havana (littlehavanas.com) Little Havana is the Sunday brunch hotspot. Arrive early for a table on the deck overlooking the water. A flat price gets you a fabulous entrée with Cuban flair, and a bottomless mimosa or bloody Mary.

Lunch: Café Hon’ (www.cafehon.com) Brush up on your Bawlmer-ese and don your cat-eye glasses for lunch at this quintessential Baltimore eatery. Located in the Hampden neighborhood, Cafe Hon’ can’t be missed – there’s a 2-story pink flamingo over the door!

Opened by Denise Whiting in 1992, Cafe Hon takes its name from a common term of endearment ("hon" - an abbreviated version of the word "honey") often used by Baltimore residents. If you’re here in June, don’t miss Hon-Fest! As the website describes, “The term Hon is actually a friendly Baltimore greeting and comes from the word honey.

Around here, however, the women who vie to become Baltimore’s Best Hon are a vision of the sixtiesera. They are women with beehive hairdos, bright-blue eye shadow, spandex pants and anything with leopard print!”

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Dinner: Little Italy (www.littleitalymd.com) Whether you dine at Amicci’s (www.amiccis.com) or Chiapparelli’s (www.chiapparellis.com), you’ve got to check out Baltimore’s Little Italy for dinner. Authentic Italian restaurants line the streets, shoulder to shoulder, with something for everyone’s palate and pocketbook. No matter where you choose to eat however, skip dessert and head to Vaccaro’s (www.vaccarospastry.com) for cannoli. Afterward, hit the bocce courts for a little friendly competition with the locals. Don’t worry; they’ll teach you the rules! (www.bocce.baltimore.md.us) Crabs: They Deserve Their Own Header The blue crab is the Maryland State Crustacean. It is best eaten coated with Old Bay seasoning and paired with a frosty brew. Served on a table covered with brown kraft paper, the practice is known as “crab picking” for the elusive morsels dug out of the crab.

Everyone has their favorite crab house. We are not claiming these are the Best. However, they are very well-known, and you won’t be disappointed.

Lunchtime crabcake: Faidley’s (www.faidleyscrabcakes.com) Located in the World Famous Lexington Market (www.lexingtonmarket.com), Faidley’s Seafood is best known for its award winning lump crab cakes. Broiled or fried, these crabcakes are more meat than filler, and are best eaten standing up at the lunch counter.

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Continued from Page 13: Travelin’ Taus: Welcome to Bawlmer, Hon’!

Crab picking: Obrycki’s (www.obryckis.com) Obrycki’s opened in the 1940s, and has since expanded to multiple locations. Located in historic Fells Point, this is a great place for crabs.

“Oh say can you see…”

Fort McHenry (www.nps.gov/fomc) is a star-shaped fort best known for its role in the War of 1812 when it successfully defended Baltimore Harbor from an attack by the British Navy. It was during this bombardment of the fort that Francis Scott Key was inspired to write "The Star-Spangled Banner", the poem that would eventually become the national anthem of the United States. Watch the ships over a picnic lunch in the park (dogs welcome), or tour the fort and chat with re-enactors.

Continue your history lesson at the Flag House & Star-Spangled Banner Museum (www.flaghouse.org), birthplace of Francis Scott Key’s museum. Tickets for kids under 6 are free, and the museum is filled with tons of children’s activities.

Alumnae Association Highlight: Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter

By Carole Keily, Alpha Xi, Staff Writer Imagine for a moment what life was like in Northern Virginia in the late 1930s and early 1940s. There was no Beltway, no I66 or I-95, no shopping malls. Tysons Corner was still a crossroads in Fairfax County. Loudoun County may as well have been in West Virginia and Prince William County was considered part of Central Virginia. While American women were part of the workforce then, most of them held jobs as a teacher, nurse or secretary; indeed, many of Alpha Sigma Tau’s members at that time graduated from “teachers’ colleges”.

This was the era when a group of Alpha Sigma Taus began meeting in Arlington and Washington, D.C. with the intention of becoming an AST alumnae chapter. This group met intermittently for about ten years, with a period of inactivity due to World War II, before becoming installed as the Washington, D.C. Alumnae Chapter at Meda Ray Elliott Sewell’s home in Arlington on April 8, 1948. Like Alpha Sigma Tau itself, our chapter was started with eight great women. Our alumnae chapter found-

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ing sisters were from Arlington, Alexandria, Washington, D.C., and Cumberland, Maryland.

Chapter membership increased rapidly during the 1950s and 1960s, and the distances that members had to travel to meetings increased as well. (A note in our chapter files from the 1960s laments the fact that one member moved “so far away” – out to Fairfax City.) In 1971, the group split; the original group became the Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter, and the other became the Prince George’sMontgomery County, Maryland Alumnae Chapter.

Northern Virginia is a different place than it was in 1971 and so is our alumnae chapter. Our members are from chapters across the country and we’re proud of the diversity in ages and in occupations. We are educators, business owners, bankers, Congressional staffers, government employees, activists, medical personnel, stay-at -home moms and retirees. We are one of Alpha Sigma Tau’s largest and most active alumnae chapters!

may have changed over time, we still meet about nine to ten times each year, as we have done regularly since 1948. Through the years, we’ve celebrated Founders Day each November, sent donations to Pine Mountain, Habitat for Humanity, and notfor-profit organizations in the greater Washington area. Our meetings have been held in members’ homes, restaurants, parks, and even a movie theater! Our members live in Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Loudoun County, and Fauquier County; a few of our members live in suburban Maryland. We were a member of the Washington, D.C. Alumnae Panhellenic when we first became a chapter and have been a member of the Northern Virginia Alumnae Panhellenic for many years.

Any woman who is an initiated member of the Alpha Sigma Tau Sorority and who is in good standing is eligible to join an alumnae chapter after leaving college. All Alpha Sigma Taus from across the country are invited to join us, and we look forward to meeting you!

But while we as a chapter and our region Page 14

FanASTic Facebook Foto!

From the Alpha Sigma Tau Worldwide Facebook Page, an unofficial page that has over 3,400 members: Jessica Starrett, Gamma Psi, shares a pic of her Alpha Sigma Tau t-shirt quilt and writes: “As fellow sisters I thought I would like to share with all of you how I spend a few days last week. I have been wanting to do something with my drawer full my Alpha Sigma Tau Tee shirts for a long time and saw this idea a few years ago and have wanted to do it ever since. My quilt is not complete yet but the top is done. I hope you all enjoy this!”

Alpha Sigma Tau National Headquarters 3334 Founders Road Indianapolis, IN 46268 Toll Free: 1.877.505.1899 Local: 317.613.7575 E-mail: headquarters@alphasigmatau.org

Moved? Name Change? New E-Mail?

Please contact HQ to update your information.

Staff of THE CREST Editor Vanessa Florence, Zeta vflorence@alphasigmatau.org Staff Writers and Contributors Joanna Barrett, Epsilon Epsilon Carole Bicking Keily, Alpha Xi Stephanie Sanders, Beta Theta Lauren Welch, Delta Psi Colleen Coffey, Delta Eta Kirsten Heck, Gamma Pi Baltimore Alumnae Chapter Alpha Sigma Tau Board of Trustees Christina Covington, National President Jamie Miller, Director of Alumnae Ashley Berkman, Epsilon Epsilon Kathy DiNovis Vestermark, Zeta Courtney Keim, Beta Upsilon Angie Daubert Gutekunst, Delta Debi Flaig Meeks, Beta Mu Allison Bressler, Alumnae & Volunteer Services Coordinator Shelly Redmond, National Vice President Have an article idea? Want to nominate a sister as an “AST”onishing Alumna or Collegian? Are you interested being a part of THE CREST team? Please contact the editor, Vanessa Florence at vflorence@alphasigmatau.org

From the Desk of The Editor: The Swimsuit Edition I love living in Florida. It’s spring and hitting 80 degrees. The beaches and pools are calling my name. However, my swimsuit is screaming “Help” as I try to squeeze this year’s body into last year’s suit.

Therefore it’s a perfect time for me to get into shape for an upcoming Alpha Sigma Tau sponsored 5K in April. 5K, 3 miles, that should be too hard (gulp!).

While I bike the kids to school and back (4 miles a day), I don’t seem to be getting fit.

Perhaps it is my workout plan which consists of running my four kids to all their activities but not much more.

Or it could be my diet. I tried a new one.

All those girls on the Girl Scout cookie boxes looked fit, so I at all the cookies so I could look just like them. Let’s just say, that didn’t work (but not for the lack of trying).

So, life is a bummer.

However, I found my problem via a posting of a friend on Facebook. She tells me this

lack of fitness isn’t my fault—that we are to blame it on our shampoo. And I think she is right! She says to read the label. There it is in print. According to shampoo that runs off my hair, across my body, its purpose is to “increase volume and body”. Yikes!

Now what to do?! Well, she advised me to switch to Dawn dish soap. It’s label says it “dissolves fat that is otherwise difficult to remove.”

I will let you know in a few weeks if this plan has worked or not.

I hope you enjoy this Spring 2011 edition of THE CREST.

Taus forever, Vanessa