Cover Story

A Recap: Convention 2024 Celebrating 150 Years of Gamma Phi Beta

More than 850 Gamma Phi Betas gathered in the vibrant city of Chicago from June 26-29, 2024, for the Sorority’s 81st Convention! For four days, the Convention hotel was awash in shades of pink, and excitement filled the air. This year’s Convention was extra special as we celebrated our sesquicentennial! Members conducted essential Sorority business, elected new leaders to guide us into the next 150 years and honored our cherished rituals and traditions. We celebrated our True and Constant sisterhood by reconnecting with old friends and forming new, lifelong bonds. The festivities culminated in an unforgettable live acoustic performance by Natasha Bedingfield (more on this later). Here's a look at some of the highlights from this year's Convention — one for the history books!

Wednesday   

The Marriott Marquis Chicago didn’t know what hit it when Gamma Phi Beta made its official mark on the property. Dedicated volunteers and International Headquarters (IH) staff decorated the site with a large pink arch, over 100 pop-up signs, several LED marquee signs, balloon pillars and Gamma Phi Beta-branded backdrops. What can we say — we love a good photo-op! 

The hotel lobby began to fill up with members who arrived early on Wednesday, June 26. Sisters showed off their Gamma Phi Beta pride, donning vintage G-Phi shirts and coordinating travel outfits in our brand colors. The day featured optional events, including registration, the hat decorating room, Foundation room and Traveling Exhibit, all of which remained open throughout Convention. The 150th Donor Reception and Foundation’s Supporter of the Heart Dinner, both by invitation only, took place in the evening. The day concluded with an optional off-site sisterhood event at Navy Pier. 

Thursday

The fun really began on Thursday, June 23. Vendors, including Herff Jones, Crescent Corner, First Moon Napa Valley and more set up their booths and began interacting with attendees. Rookie attendees were invited to the first-time attendee session, where they learned tips and tricks to get the most out of their Convention experience. There were also regional meetups and groups focused on particular interests and affinities, all before the first business session. 

After sisters strengthened their bonds in a more intimate setting, attendees assembled in the main ballroom to commence the first business session, led by International President Autumn L. Hansen (Idaho). Following the opening ritual, International Council Vice President Crissy Carlisle (Alabama) read the land acknowledgment, and Vice President Judy E. Graham (Oklahoma) recited the Gamma Phi Beta creed. International Council Vice Presidents Victoria Lopez-Herrera (Alumnae Initiate) and Lillian Lammers (Denver) then led the flag processional and chapter roll call. This was followed by performances of "O Canada" and "The Star-Spangled Banner." The session concluded with members singing “I Am A G-Phi” and “I Love The Crescent Moon.” Autumn’s twin daughters, Hazel and Mary Jo, even joined in on the singing! 

The Sweet Home Chicago-themed Welcome Dinner began shortly thereafter. Local Convention Steering Committee Chair Jessica Jecmen (Oklahoma City) welcomed attendees and thanked her fellow committee members for all their work over the biennium. She gave a special shoutout to Sally Lewis (Bradley), who chaired the local committee for Convention 1984, the last time we were in Chicago.During dinner, Foundation Trustees discussed impact stories that really resonated with members. Dinner concluded with a stylish introduction of the 2022-24 International Council (IC), all dancing to music from “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” an iconic comedy filmed in the Windy City. A Ferris lookalike even took the stage to perform the memorable “Twist and Shout” parade scene from the movie.  

Attendees reconvened in the main ballroom after dinner for the second business session of the day. Here, Autumn announced and thanked all the past International Presidents present at the 81st Convention (there were a lot!). She noted that many of those individuals paved the way for her to have a seat at the table in her volunteer journey. Autumn also gave special thanks to the Facilities Management Company (FMC) Board of Managers, Foundation Board of Trustees and IH staff. There was a special highlight to donors making a difference, with a tribute given to Dr. Ruth Seeler (Vermont) for providing financial assistance to many sisters, including those studying medicine. After this, the report of the Credentials Committee was read by committee chair Joey Stiver (North Dakota State), and business began. 

The day concluded with a Volunteer Sisterhood Reception, by invitation only, and a collegian sisterhood event where collegians from across North America enjoyed snacks, music and friendship bracelet making/exchanging.  

Friday 

With the day’s suggested attire as “Gamma Fri-Yay!,” sisters did not disappoint. Our beautiful shades took center stage as members donned past and present Gamma Phi Beta hues. The day began bright and early at 6 a.m. with an optional G-Phi-themed jazzercise class. HistoryIT was also on-site in the Traveling Exhibit room, helping chapters preserve their history in our digital archive.  

The day’s business session began at 8:30 a.m., with Autumn delivering her final State of One Gamma Phi Beta address. She provided a comprehensive overview of the past biennium, highlighting challenges, accomplishments and future goals across the Sorority, Foundation and FMC. A key theme of her speech was Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a concept emphasizing acceptance of negative feelings while committing to actions aligned with values. 

Autumn shared examples of tough decisions made by Gamma Phi Beta leaders, such as selling the IH building on East Euclid Drive, and she emphasized that difficult decisions often evoke challenging emotions but are necessary for growth. She reminded attendees that life isn’t about avoiding discomfort but embracing it as part of our complex narratives. Autumn concluded by stressing that ACT helps us navigate challenges and stay true to our values. She then welcomed the organization’s Chief Executive Officer Megan Smiley Wick (Washington State) to the stage to discuss major highlights from the past biennium. For a complete list of these highlights, visit Bit.ly/GPBConvention24.  

Members took a break from business to enjoy the revered Awards Celebration Luncheon. Aptly themed “Gammapalooza” in honor of Chicago’s famous Lollapalooza music festival, the luncheon was a colorful affair. Iridescent stars and crescent moons, light-up rings and bright flower arrangements adorned each table, creating a festive atmosphere. The luncheon celebrated the phenomenal accomplishments of our collegiate and alumnae chapters, affiliated house corporations and dedicated volunteers over the past biennium. To see the full list of award winners, flip to Page 30.  

Following lunch was the final business session of our 81st Convention. This session covered any unfinished business and featured a couple of special presentations. Highlights included a presentation by GOTR International (read all about it on Page 4) and the announcement of the biennium’s recipients of the Carnation Award and Philanthropist of the Year Award. 

The Philanthropist of the Year Award was given to Cary Singleton, an alumna initiate who joined Gamma Phi Beta in her 50s. In 2016, Cary and her husband, Will, launched the Singleton Foundation, which promotes financial competence and entrepreneurship, believing everyone can become the chief executive officer of their own lives. At Convention, an exciting partnership between the Singleton Foundation and Gamma Phi Beta was announced, aiming to help members develop essential financial and entrepreneurial skills. 

The Carnation Award recognizes members whose outstanding achievements in fields outside of the Sorority have brought them honor or great distinction. The award was given to Annie Mitchell (Puget Sound), Dr. Callie Cox Bauer (Minnesota-Twin Cities), Cheryl Darcel Gunter (Tennessee-Knoxville) and Muriel Lipsey Smith (Manitoba).   

To give a snapshot of what these women have accomplished, Annie is a seasoned finance executive in the retail industry, having worked with both emerging brands like eBags and Gymshark and global giants like Gap and Adidas. Currently, as the chief financial officer at Allbirds, Annie and her team demonstrate that purpose and profitability can coexist, proving that a sustainable footwear brand is achievable.  

Callie is a dedicated advocate for women's health, serving patients at Milwaukee's Aurora Sinai Medical Center. She is the associate program director and adjunct assistant professor, shaping future OBGYN practitioners. Callie has held leadership roles, published numerous research articles and spearheaded initiatives to improve patient care and equity for women. Recognized by the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and as a Gamma Phi Beta 40 Under 40 honoree, she was elected to serve as Vice President of the Sorority’s 2024-26 IC. 

Cheryl, associate dean and professor at West Chester University, is a distinguished professional in communication sciences and disorders. She has earned over 20 teaching awards, 15 grants and authored numerous publications and presentations. Gunter has held leadership roles in professional associations, including national president for Alpha Eta. Her clinical work has improved health literacy and service delivery, earning her significant honors such as the Distinguished Service Award from Iowa State University. 

Muriel Lipsey Smith (Manitoba) is the final Carnation Award recipient. Her career spans political activism, community leadership and dedication to women's rights. She actively participated in international affairs with the World Affairs Council and rose to national leadership in the YWCA. Joining the New Democratic Party (NDP), she became the first female president of the Manitoba NDP and was elected to the provincial government, serving in various ministerial roles, including Canada's first female deputy premier. After her 1988 electoral defeat, she engaged with the United Nations Association and remains active in women's organizations.  

The session wrapped up with the Convention 2026 presentation (check it out on Page 33), an inspiring Mentor’s Report, closing ritual and the flag recessional. Next up: Confirmed Conventioneers!  

Confirmed Conventioneers  

The energy was alive and well Friday evening as members gathered at the off-site private event venue, City Hall, for the Confirmed Conventioneers dinner and parade. With a Chicago World’s Fair theme, the venue featured mesmerizing performances by stilt walkers and aerialists. Fair snacks like popcorn and animal crackers dotted the tables, while pink-frosted mini cupcakes, displayed on Ferris wheel-shaped holders, served as centerpieces. Dinner was buffet-style, offering a variety of delicious options. 

Convention’s resident DJ, Gemini Jones, provided all the beats throughout the event, with the music really turning up for the Confirmed Conventioneers parade. This parade celebrates Convention and the dedicated sisters who attend every biennium. Leading the parade again this year were Phyllis Choat (Nebraska-Lincoln) and Sally Lewis (Bradley), recognized for attending 26 Conventions! The pair waved to members from a Gamma Phi Beta-decorated pedicab as they were driven around the event space. 

Gemini was joined on stage by Gamma Phi Beta’s very own Chief Hype Officer Carly Foerster (Chapman) and Chief Vibes Officer Amanda Hart (Iowa), both members of the 150th Celebration Committee. As their unofficial titles suggest, Carly and Amanda brought all the hype and vibes, emceeing the Confirmed Conventioneers parade and hat contests with enthusiasm that was truly unmatched.  

Saturday 

Saturday began early for those who joined the optional GOTR exercise class. For the rest, the day started at 9 a.m. with the Memorial and Initiation Services. Members gathered in white attire to honor sisters who had passed away since the last Convention. This included Dr. Ruth Seeler, whose generous bequest of $4.2 million remains the Foundation’s largest gift to date. Her $250,000 donation also established the Ruth Andrea Seeler Leadership Endowment, advancing leadership training and development for our members. 

Following the memorial, we celebrated new additions to our sisterhood as six women were initiated as alumnae. The festivities continued with the highly anticipated 150th Celebration Luncheon. 150th Celebration Committee Chair Krista Davis (Bowling Green) emceed the event, highlighting Gamma Phi Beta’s milestones and the broader narrative of women’s rights across North America. A fashion show showcased outfits through the decades, and the event concluded with a new 150th ritual service.  

The luncheon was followed by a moving keynote address from Kathrine Switzer, the first woman to officially register and run in the Boston Marathon in 1967. Kathrine's trailblazing spirit mirrored that of our Founders, and members had the chance to meet her following her inspiring speech.  

In the late afternoon, attendees participated in Gamma Phi Beta breakout sessions, covering various topics and experiences related to the 150th Celebration, including a live recording of our True and Constant Podcast and a deep dive into our historical contextualization project with HistoryIT (read more about this on Page 36). 

As evening fell, members donned formal wear for the Pink Carnation Banquet themed “Once Upon a Time.” The venue was transformed into a cozy reading nook, complete with dimly lit candles, ornate candelabras and old-timey books. A large backdrop greeted attendees with the inscription: “Once upon a time, four trailblazing women changed the lives of many. And 150 years later, their legacy remains Unwritten. Celebrating 150 Years of Sisterhood.” 

The final evening of Convention included a delicious dinner, expressions of gratitude to outgoing IC members and a warm welcome to the newly elected IC leaders. The celebration reached its peak with a special acoustic performance by Natasha Bedingfield (We have photos to prove it!). Performing hits like “Pocketful of Sunshine,” “These Words” and her 2004 iconic hit “Unwritten,” Natasha captivated the audience. Sisters of all ages rushed to the stage, dancing and singing, creating a moment of pure joy and sisterhood. This unforgettable experience will surely be etched in our Sorority’s history for the next 150+ years. 

A Founder's Badge

One hundred years ago, in 1924, Founder Frances Haven Moss was presented with a badge at Convention. In 2022, this treasured badge was generously donated to the Sorority by her greatgranddaughter, Anne Dunn, and Anne's siblings.

Frances' 1924 Convention badge was proudly displayed in the Traveling Exhibit at Convention 2024. Adding to this historic moment, five of Frances' descendants attended Convention on Saturday: her two great-granddaughters, Anne Dunn and Merikay Huszagh; two 2x greatgranddaughters, Jennifer Cibor (Indiana) and Carly Moore (Grand Valley State); and one 3x greatgranddaughter, Rhia Loutfi (Illinois at UrbanaChampaign).

Athlete. Activist. Author.

Kathrine Switzer, an iconic athlete, author, Emmy Award-winning broadcaster and advocate for sports and social causes, made history as the first woman to officially register and run the Boston Marathon in 1967. During the race, she faced an angry official who tried to tear off her bib number (#261) and remove her from the event simply because she was a woman. Despite this challenge, she completed the 26.2-mile race and later won the 1974 New York City Marathon. Switzer's efforts were pivotal in advancing women's participation in the sport, notably leading the campaign to make the women's marathon an official Olympic event in 1984.

Today, women make up 58% of all runners in the United States. To celebrate this significant shift and support active aging, Switzer ran the Boston Marathon again at age 70, marking the 50th anniversary of her historic run. She finished only 24 minutes slower than she did at age 20. This marathon reignited her commitment to empowering women through running and led to the creation of her nonprofit, 261 Fearless, named after her famous bib number. The organization supports women globally through running. Switzer has been widely honored for her contributions, including her induction into the USA National Women’s Hall of Fame for her role in creating positive social change throughout her distinguished career.

Learn more about Kathrine at KathrineSwitzer.com