Letter from Foundation Chair Barbie Chadwick (Vanderbilt)
4 BUILDING STRONG GIRLS
Gamma Phis at Girls on the Run end-of-season 5K
5 COAST-TO-COAST CLOSE-UP
Don't miss out on our remaining 150th Celebration events!
6 PACE, PLEASE!
Tips and tricks to be resume-ready
8 CONFIDENT WOMEN 12 BELONGING, EQUITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION (BEDI)
A recap of the fourth annual BEDI Summit and how to enact BEDI change today 16 CHAPTER SWEET CHAPTER
Epsilon Alpha Chapter (La Salle) 18
Whitney “Whit” Erler (Colorado Mesa) and her booming jewelry business
How the Sorority, Foundation and Facilities Management Company converged, flourishing as One Gamma Phi Beta
LIVING WELL
Five ways to develop your personal style
FACILITIES MANAGEMENT COMPANY
The revitalization of Zeta Iota’s chapter room at Valparaiso University
A look into the time-honored Foundation Room at Convention
THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE
Crafting excellence: the art behind selecting the next biennium’s leaders
CORRECTIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS
In the winter 2024 issue of The Crescent , Nicole Tomsovic (Bradley) was incorrectly listed in the "In Our Hearts" section. The Crescent staff apologizes for this error. get in touch
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When this issue reaches you, we will be about a month away from our 81st Convention in Chicago, Illinois! This year’s Convention is a special one because, in addition to conducting Sorority business and celebrating our sacred traditions and rituals, we get to honor 150 years of our True and Constant sisterhood together.
This issue of The Crescent is a special one, too, as it is the second edition of our 150th commemorative series for the year. The winter issue’s cover story focused on our Founders — the courageous women responsible for our Sorority’s earliest chapters. This issue’s cover story focuses on One Gamma Phi Beta, the middle chapters of our Sorority’s enduring narrative. One Gamma Phi Beta comprises the Sorority, Foundation and Facilities Management Company (FMC). By unifying our three entities as one, we can better serve our members today and support our organization in the years to come. Flip to Page 23 for a comprehensive look at each entity of One Gamma Phi Beta.
Other celebratory articles include a look at the remaining Coast-to-Coast Celebrations taking place across North America on Page 5. And if you are unable to attend one of these events, bring the 150th Celebration to you with Party in a Box! We give you a peek inside this festive initiative on Page 20.
I hope to connect with you all in The Windy City next month!
In IIKE,
Barbie Chadwick (Vanderbilt) Foundation Chair
WHO IS BARBIE?
Barbie Chadwick is currently serving her first full term as the Foundation Chair on the Gamma Phi Beta Foundation Board of Trustees. Most recently, Barbie served three years on the FMC Board of Managers, with the past two years as the FMC Chair. Barbie has held other volunteer roles within the Sorority, including Collegiate Vice President on International Council and Nominating Committee member.
A member of Alpha Theta Chapter at Vanderbilt University, Barbie earned a bachelor’s degree in English. She worked in the nonprofit field for more than 30 years before retiring from the Boys and Girls Clubs of Middle Tennessee in 2019.
DESCRIBE CONVENTION IN ONE WORD Invigorating
NUMBER OF CONVENTIONS YOU HAVE ATTENDED 24
150TH INITIATVE YOU ARE MOST EXCITED ABOUT Party in a Box
RUN, CHEER, EMPOWER
Inside the electrifying atmosphere and contagious empowerment experienced at the Girls on the Run (GOTR) end-of-season 5K
Imagine yourself as a 9-year-old, poised behind the start line of a racing event. You survey the scene, feeling a mix of nerves and excitement as the whistle prepares to sound and the race commences. Girls from across the state stand beside you, and their anticipation is palpable. Despite the flutter of butterflies in your stomach, your excitement outweighs the nerves — you trained for this moment. Your coaches stand nearby, exuding confidence and rallying your team with encouraging words. Their smiles are infectious, boosting morale as they chant, 'We can do this together!' The vibrant sea of colors — from brightly hued shirts to funky socks and glittery accessories — adds to the electric atmosphere. As the whistle blows, the air fills with screams of delight, and you catch sight of older girls on the sidelines, holding signs adorned with motivating words. The upbeat music sets your heart racing in sync with its tempo. You repeat to yourself, 'We can do this. I can do this.'
This empowering energy is ever-present at the GOTR end-of-season celebratory 5K events. Annually, GOTR hosts over 300 5Ks at more than 165 councils across North America. This exciting event precedes 10 weeks of educational programming, enabling each participant of all abilities to have a tangible sense of confidence through accomplishment. Gamma Phis Betas love attending GOTR 5Ks, cheering on and running with girls, reminding them that they can do anything they put their minds to. Here is a look at sisters doing precisely that!
Experience the electric and empowering energy of a celebratory 5K by searching for volunteer opportunities at a GOTR council nearest you: GirlsOnTheRun.org/Connect-Locally
Sisters of Eta Beta Chapter (Florida Southern) help GOTR participants prepare for their race in style with Happy Hair — a favorite of Gamma Phi sisters and GOTR girls alike!
At the GOTR Atlanta fall 2023 5K, members of Zeta Omega Chapter (Kennesaw State) hand out finish line medals to participants as they crossed the finish line.
Members of Beta Omega Chapter (Northern Arizona) cheer on the girls of GOTR Northern Arizona for their accomplishments!
Members of Eta Eta Chapter (South Florida) hand out finish line medals to participants as they crossed the finish line.
Learn more and register today at GammaPhiBeta.org/150/ CoastToCoast.
Coast-to-Coast Close-Up
One of the ways we are celebrating our sesquicentennial is through a series of events known as Coast-to-Coast Celebrations, taking place across North America this year! This celebratory tour recently took us to Seattle in March, Denver in April and Dallas in May. Sisters enjoyed fun activities, a delicious dinner, captivating keynotes delivered by Gamma Phis respected in their fields and fostering sisterly connections at the events.
Upcoming Celebration Stops
Columbus, Ohio: August 2-4
Toronto, Ontario: September 7
Charlotte, North Carolina: September 13-15
Orlando, Florida: October 25-27
Syracuse, New York: November 8-10
Resume-Ready!
By Holly Maglin (Christopher Newport)
Creating a resume can often feel stressful, like trying to navigate a confusing maze. Many of us approach it nervously, hoping our efforts will be enough to land us an interview or a job offer. Some people even let the daunting task of resume writing halt their job search entirely. But the truth is, your resume is more important than just a job application. It's a crucial document not only for finding a job but also for seeking a promotion or raise. Plus, it's a valuable tool for networking in professional circles. Adding to the challenge is technology, which has changed the hiring process significantly. Applicant tracking systems (ATS) now filter candidates based on keywords. So, having a well-crafted resume tailored to the job description is essential for success in today's competitive job market. Here are eight tips to make sure your resume is ready for any opportunity!
1. No Templates
Templates are great to get started and guide you on the right path, but never submit a resume that is in a template – ever! They may look appealing, and I understand the temptation, but try to steer clear. Template formatting isn't universal, and what appears great to you may appear terrible when viewed by a hiring manager. And remember ATS? It will extract the information it needs, and a template’s built-in formatting is often incompatible with online systems. If you admire how a template looks, use it as inspiration to format your own resume.
2. Write a Strong Summary Statement
Switching from outdated objective statements to succinct summary statements on your resume is crucial. While objective statements may seem standard, they often state the obvious. With limited resume space, every line must count. Enter the summary statement: a concise introduction highlighting you as the top candidate. Populate it with keywords and big achievements for maximum impact.
3. Keywords – Your Best Friends
Fill your resume with the right keywords. The keywords you scatter throughout your resume will determine whether it gets past ATS and onto a hiring manager’s desk. But ensure you’re using the correct keywords! You can locate these keywords in the job posting. It’s essentially the answer key, with the recruiter or hiring manager explicitly stating what they're seeking.
4. Be Wary of Your Skills Section
Not everyone needs a skills section. So, if you don’t need one, don't include it. For those in the medical field, a skills section highlighting tangible skills is highly recommended. However, if you lack such tangible skills, don’t force it.
5. Keep that Education a High Priority – For Now
If you’re a soon-to-be or recent college graduate, your education reigns as your most vital credential. Keep it prominently positioned, right
beneath your summary statement. Display it proudly — you've earned that degree through hard work! Conversely, if you've been in the workforce for two to three years, it's time to relocate the education section beneath your work experience. While your education was pivotal, your experience now stands as your most valuable asset.
When discussing your education, focus solely on higher ed. Omit mention of your high school diploma, as it's assumed if you possess a college degree. If you transferred without completing a program, leave it out. Only highlight what you've accomplished, avoiding potential inquiries about changing paths, even if for commendable reasons.
6. Be Specific with Your Section Titles
Just like the significance of keywords, section titles serve as excellent guides when quickly scanning a resume. Make it effortless for someone to gather all they need to advance you to the next round with just a glance.
While ‘Work Experience’ suffices as a section title, aim for a touch of creativity! Did you engage in multiple internships while in school? Consider ‘Internship Experience.’ Did you spend years working in a restaurant or clothing store? Opt for ‘Customer Service Experience.’ Were you actively involved in Gamma Phi Beta? Highlight your ‘Leadership Experience.’
7. Don’t Forget Your Achievements!
This resume is your representation on paper, so it is crucial to present yourself in the best possible light. While some may hesitate to self-promote, remember: if you don't showcase your strengths, who will? After listing the tasks for each job, take a moment to reflect on what you excelled at or improved. This is the perfect opportunity to highlight your strengths and accomplishments!
8. Keep Your Resume Fresh
Your resume is a fluid document, so it should be updated every few months.
Alex Wainwright
ZETA CHI (Texas Christian) ASPIRING OLYMPIAN
What fills Alex Wainwright’s (Texas Christian) cup? Sports, people and places. As a member of the USA Karate National Team, Alex experiences all three by participating in the sport she loves most and traveling all over the world for competitions with her team, her best friends. Alex adds, “It is quite literally the most fulfilling thing I could ask for.”
Now 22, Alex started karate at the tender age of 8. After her mom took her to watch one of her cousin’s karate classes, Alex was mesmerized by the sport. She signed up for her first class shortly thereafter, and as Alex says, “The rest is history.”
She had no idea about the levels of growth karate presented until a few years into the sport. After learning about the national team, Alex knew what to work toward. Not making the team the first year she tried out was, in hindsight, a good thing. It prompted Alex to work harder to meet her goal. During the next year of tryouts, she was stronger than ever before and made the team. She adds, “I have been on the national team for eight consecutive years. Every year we have to try out to earn our spot, and every year I successfully made the team.”
Alex adheres to a rigorous karate schedule, with practices taking place three days a week. On her off days, she works out at the gym to maintain the athletic prowess needed to consistently perform at a high level. Her competition schedule is less structured but equally taxing. She typically competes in three national tournaments a year and, based on her school schedule, three to six international tournaments as well. “Depending on the scheduling of things, I could have one tournament over the span of two months or two tournaments on back-to-back weekends.”
With such a rigid karate schedule, how does Alex
balance everything else, like school, extracurriculars and socializing with friends, including her sisters? Mastering the art of keeping a to-do list. She also likes to mitigate stress by staying ahead of homework or academic assignments. Doing so gives her the freedom to spend time with friends when her schedule allows. Time spent with them allows Alex a much-needed respite from her other responsibilities. “My favorite thing to do after a long day is spend time with my friends. They keep me grounded and remind me of the best parts of life,” she says.
Alex will graduate this coming May, earning a degree in marketing and psychology. True to her list-keeping/ planner self, Alex already has a job lined up postcollege. She will work as a business development associate for ISN Software Corporation, where she interned just a year ago. “I absolutely loved the company then and I am excited to return full time as an employee of theirs!”
And when it comes to karate, like most lifelong athletes, Alex has her eyes on the Olympics. Until then, she has a few other goals she wants to reach. “I would love to win gold at the Pan American Games. Ultimately, I envision continuing karate as much as I can beyond college, and I hope that my new schedule will permit me to do so.”
Manuela
Manuela Montes De Oca
EPSILON TAU (Rochester) BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING EXPERT
The Handler Scholarship is the most prestigious award for undergraduate students at the University of Rochester, offering full financial support throughout four years of study. Only a select group of academically exceptional students are honored with this award. In spring 2021, Manuela Montes De Oca (Rochester) was one of them.
“Hailing from Uruguay as an international student, the prospect of studying abroad and immersing myself in a diverse academic environment had always been a cherished aspiration. This dream materialized when I [became a Handler Scholar], a moment that stirred a profound mix of emotions within in,” Manuela recounts.
Manuela meant business once she arrived on campus and declared her major early in her undergraduate journey. As a biomedical engineering student, her passions for medicine and creative problem-solving take center stage. She intends to earn a doctoral degree in biomechanics post-undergrad and eventually bring her expertise back home to Trinidad to educate others. She adds, “I want to teach and inspire students within the domain of biomechanics, particularly in places like
Uruguay where educational resources may be limited.”
In addition to her coursework, Manuela is the president of the Biomedical Engineering Society’s campus chapter and serves as vice president of Engineers Without Borders, a student-run organization dedicated to sustainable engineering projects worldwide. These leadership roles have not only expanded Manuela's professional network but have also deepened her understanding of the transformative impact engineering solutions can have on real-world challenges.
She also serves as a teaching assistant across multiple departments on campus. Additionally, Manuela spent two summers as a full-time research assistant at the University’s computational biomechanics lab, working under the mentorship of Rochester professor Dr. Amy Lerner.
“[As a research assistant], I worked in conjunction with radiologists from the Hospital of Special Surgeries. My role involved using software like MeVisLab, Amira, itkSnap and 3DSlicer to analyze MR images and segment anatomical geometries of the knee. Our aim was to develop finite element models and compare subject-specific measurements of the knees.”
Campus leader: Check. Academic scholar: Check. And Sorority sister: Check. The latter was never part of Manuela’s plan. However, after befriending the Gamma Phi teaching assistant in one of her first engineering classes, Manuela knew she had to get involved with the Sorority, too. “Despite going through recruitment later than usual, the warmth, acceptance and genuine love extended by the members of Gamma Phi Beta left an indelible impression on me. Through their unwavering support and encouragement, I discovered a sense of belonging and solidarity that transcended boundaries.”
Manuela is set to graduate in May 2025, and until that joyous day arrives, she intends to continue at full speed ahead. What keeps her going is her biggest cheerleader; the person she looks up to the most: her mom.
“My mom has been nothing short of supportive of me and my decision to move thousands of miles away to pursue my dreams. She makes me a better person. She is both my motivation and biggest inspiration.”
Hilary Russo
ALPHA XI (Southern Methodist) A REVERED JOURNALIST
By Annabel Simister (Maryland)
Hilary Russo (Southern Methodist) is a standout figure in the field of journalism with more than 25 years of experience in the media industry. As an award-winning reporter, she has earned a reputation for excellence. Transitioning beyond the realms of journalism, Hilary embarked on a journey into health and wellness, where she now provides wellness coaching and support for individuals navigating trauma and seeking to improve their mental well-being. Alongside her wellness pursuits, she serves as an educator in nutrition, imparting valuable insights into the importance of maintaining a balanced diet for overall wellness, including emotional well-being.
Journalists often face many challenges and must find different ways to overcome them. Hilary, reflecting on her own experience, shares, “As a journalist, we’re considered the forgotten first responders because we’re the ones that are at the scene almost as quickly, if not immediately, after the EMTs.”
Hilary's perspective sheds light on the crucial role journalists play in covering events swiftly and comprehensively. She emphasizes the importance of journalists being on the scene promptly to provide accurate and timely coverage. Furthermore, Hilary delves into the emotional toll that covering traumatic events can take, likening journalists to first responders in experiencing the raw emotions present in such situations. This insight underscores the resilience required in the field of journalism and the need for journalists to navigate and process their emotions effectively.
Beyond journalism, Hilary is a home improvement expert and works on Formica project videos where she shows off her abilities in working on home decor and interior design. Adding on to this, she is also a university professor of mass communications at St. John’s University in New York City and teaches on-camera presentation and broadcasting and
announcing, leveraging her extensive professional background to mentor aspiring journalists.
Throughout her teachings, Hilary emphasizes the holistic nature of journalism, highlighting the importance of both on-camera presence and the behind-the-scenes work essential for smooth production. She intricately weaves these principles into her class curriculums, ensuring that her students gain a comprehensive understanding of the journalistic process.
How does one woman balance all this (and more)? Repeating her daily mantra, ‘Life is a falling into’ certainly helps.
To learn more about Hilary, visit HilaryRusso.com.
Change: Embracing Reflecting on the 2024 Belonging, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (BEDI) Summit
Exploring paths to lasting transformation through belonging, equity, diversity and inclusion
The fourth annual BEDI Summit took place on February 24, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. MT, and it was truly a transformative day of learning! Collegians, alumnae, International Headquarters staff, volunteers and family and friends of Gamma Phi Beta all gathered online to engage with two talented keynote speakers, learn about BEDI updates within the Sorority, gain access to exclusive resources and more. By coming together and actively participating in BEDI programming, we collectively strive toward creating a more just, equitable and inclusive community within Gamma Phi Beta for both current and future members.
The first-ever BEDI Summit took place in 2021, and since then, the event’s programming has been reinvented annually to provide learning, stories and resources that best align with members’ feedback and requests. For several years, Gamma Phi Betas have been speaking
From The Keynotes
Eboné Bell and and Chevara Orrin imparted many insightful words to attendees of the 2024 BEDI Summit, delving into their lived experiences, family lineages and legacies they aspire to leave behind. They explained how these aspects shape their work as leaders in the realm of belonging, equity, diversity and inclusion. In alignment
up in our educational feedback forms, expressing, “I’ve learned a lot at the BEDI Summit, but I’m not sure how to take what I’ve learned and use it to make change.”
The 2024 BEDI Summit addressed this by focusing the event’s programming on BEDI action.
During this year’s summit, attendees learned from keynote speakers Eboné Bell and Chevara Orrin and panelists about how to make BEDI actionable in their lives and leadership. Attendees were also given a BEDI Summit Companion Guide to further their learnings during the day, take notes or jot down questions.
If you were unable to attend the 2024 BEDI Summit, fear not! You can still engage with everything, from our keynote speakers’ words of wisdom to BEDI action resources, by reading on.
with the summit's theme of BEDI action, both Eboné and Chevara provided numerous practical strategies for attendees to enact BEDI change in their daily lives. In case you missed it, here are a couple ways, according to our esteemed keynotes, that you can employ to effect BEDI change in your life, starting here and now.
Elevating Allyship
By Eboné Bell
In a world where hashtags trend and social media posts proclaim solidarity, it's easy to believe that simply expressing support for marginalized communities is enough. Yet, true allyship demands more than just words. It requires deliberate action, empathy and a willingness to challenge oneself. The importance of allyship cannot be overstated, especially in the face of ongoing social justice movements.
Understanding the essence of genuine allyship means being willing to embark on a journey of self-reflection and growth. The first step is understanding why allyship matters. It's not about token gestures or performative activism but about actively dismantling systems of oppression. Through discussions and practice, people committed to this work can grasp the significance of their role in fostering inclusivity and equity.
There are various forms of ally activism, but one must be an intentional ally first. We all have “good intentions,” but intentionality is deliberate and done on purpose. From amplifying marginalized voices to advocating for policy change, intentional allies will start to see there are numerous avenues through which they can make a difference.
When you continue to foster a supportive environment and provide strategies for navigating challenging conversations, you gain the confidence to stand firm in your convictions.
Ultimately, the goal is empowerment — empowerment to use one's voice effectively, empowerment to effect meaningful change and empowerment to be a catalyst for progress. In a time where societal divisions loom large, the need for allies has never been more pressing. So, let's move beyond passive support and commit to being active agents of change. After all, allyship is not a label but a lifelong journey of solidarity and advocacy.
Eboné Bell is a business owner, speaker and trailblazer who shines brightly in the world of entrepreneurship, LGBTQIA+ issues, media and activism. She is the founder and editor-in-chief of Tagg Magazine and Tagg Communication LLC. After seeing a lack of LGBTQIA+ women represented in local publications, she decided to start a magazine and website to tell stories, provide resources and create events centered on LGBTQIA+ stories. In 2018, Eboné founded the Tagg Scholarship Fund — a scholarship created specifically for young, queer women of color who can’t afford to attend school. She was recently featured in Forbes Magazine as an “Inspiring Black Entrepreneur Changing Our World.”
In addition to running a successful business, Eboné shares her knowledge and passion at conferences, festivals, schools and similar events across the country. As a keynote speaker, Eboné is well known for her warm energy and transparency. She is not afraid to have tough conversations. She encourages students to discover how they show up in the world. Her humor makes her approachable to students on and off-stage. Her commitment to connection is what makes her a dynamic and unforgettable speaker.
Learn more at EboneBell.com
Chevara Orrin believes in connecting passion with purpose to discover personal potential. She is a diversity and inclusion strategist, social entrepreneur, published author, social justice activist, independent filmmaker and public speaker. Her work lives at the intersection of gender parity, racial equity, LGBTQIA+ equality and arts activism.
Chevara is a survivor of childhood poverty, incest, teenage pregnancy and domestic violence. Her personal journey of tragedy and triumph inspired Chevara to use her experiences and voice as a catalyst to ignite social transformation. Chevara is deeply inspired by the legacy of her parents who were both prominent figures in critical civil rights movements in the 1960s.
Chevara has more than 20 years of experience, from senior management in the arts and higher education sectors to consulting with Fortune 500 clients. As chief creative catalyst for Collective Concepts, she conceived and co-created We Are Allies, a national advocacy campaign to support equality and inclusive policies to protect the LGBTQIA+ community. She created #WhiteAndWoke, an initiative to raise awareness about racial inequality and promote equity through intentional action.
Learn more LinkedIn.com/In/ChevaraOrrin
Creating Change-Making Legacies
By Chevara Orrin
There is immense strength and purpose in the bonds of sisterhood that unite us. Our commitment to fostering a more equitable world that centers belonging, equity, diversity and inclusion is not just a mantra but a deeply rooted value that defines who we are. In a world where divisions often overshadow unity, Gamma Phi Beta is a beacon of hope, demonstrating that solidarity knows no bounds.
Belonging isn't merely about being present; it's about feeling seen, heard and valued for who we are. It is a clarion call to action. Disruption and re-imagining. It is critical that we actively cultivate spaces where every sister's voice is not only welcomed but celebrated, even when we may be unfamiliar with practices, culture, language and rituals. Through intentional acts of radical empathy, we bridge the gaps of difference and weave a tapestry of strength that thrives on our unique intersecting identities. The tension may be palpable and ever-evolving, reflecting the broader socio-political climate of our times. Our worlds may sometimes collide and yet, with unyielding commitment to challenge our own assumptions and even unwitting complicity, we make way for a more just world.
In these challenging times, the intergenerational aspect of our connection becomes even more vital. We must embrace the wisdom of those who have journeyed this path before us, learning from their experiences and honoring their resilience. We also offer our own ideological perspectives to expand historical boundaries and effect meaningful change. Silence in the face of issues that impact our lives and regressive institutional and governmental polices that stifle our advancement as women will not bind us. Each one of us has a unique path to forge. My activism may not be your activism, and that's ok. Virtue signaling has no place in the collective movement that we are creating. The question is really, what legacy will we leave to our daughters? It has been said that legacy isn't something that you leave to someone, but rather what you leave inside that ignites their soul.
Chevara
Continued Learning
For those who attended the BEDI Summit, you can continue to explore your companion guide for ongoing learning and resources to engage in BEDI action. If you want to engage beyond the companion guide or were unable to attend the BEDI Summit and are interested in action resources, check out the BEDI Action Resources page of GammaPhiBeta.org. Here is a taste of what that page has to offer.
Educational Resources and Organizations Furthering BEDI Action and Change
“Courageous Discomfort” is a book by Shanterra McBride and Rosalind Wiseman that aims to empower readers to have important and productive conversations about race and racism.
The Inclusion Project aims to advance equity, diversity and inclusion in Canadian society by actively engaging partners and decision-makers, through research, knowledge development and community.
26 Mini-Films for exploring Race, Bias and Identity is a collection of videos curated by The New York Times that tackle issues of race, bias and identity in less than seven minutes.
BEDI Learning and Action by Social Identity
Ability: Our Fight for Disability Rights – And Why Were Not Done Yet is a Ted Talk by Judith Heumann who was a prominent American disability rights activist.
Age: National Center to Reframe Aging is the central hub for the movement to reframe aging. The Reframing Aging movement is a long-term social change endeavor designed to improve the public’s understanding of what
2024 BEDI Stats
1,486 attendees participated in the live virtual event.
aging means and the many ways that older people contribute to our society.
Race and Ethnicity: “The Good Ancestor Podcast” hosted by Layla F. Saad is an interview series with BIPOC changemakers and culture-shapers exploring what it means to be a good ancestor to dismantle oppression and change the future.
Religion: Stand Up To Religious Discrimination, Even If It's Not Your Religion is a video where Eboo Patel is open and vulnerable about a time that he did not speak up against religious discrimination and explains why it's crucial to be positive and proactive about engaging religious identity towards interfaith cooperation.
Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity: Qualities of an Ally is a resource from the University of North Carolina LGBT Center to list qualities that allies of the LGBTQIA+ community embody.
Socioeconomic Status: To End Hunger, We Must End Stigma is an article by Food Research & Action Center (FRAC), and organization that improves the nutrition, health and well-being of people struggling against poverty-related hunger in the United States through advocacy, partnerships and by advancing bold and equitable policy solutions. The article addresses the stigmas that individuals with low-income face in seeking access to food.
Women: "Alright, Now What?" is a podcast produced by the Canadian Women’s Foundation that explores stories from an intersectional feminist lens.
For the complete list of resources, visit GammaPhiBeta.org/Belonging-and-Inclusion/ BEDIAction
Attendees joined from the United States, Canada, Spain, United Kingdom and Mexico.
172 days, 10 hours, 37 minutes of total live viewing hours.
EPSILON ALPHA (La Salle)
Nestled in the heart of Philadelphia, Epsilon Alpha Chapter at La Salle University thrives as a close-knit community within the bustling city. Despite its modest size, with around 30 sisters, the chapter boasts remarkable achievements, winning accolades in Greek Week, fundraising efforts and on-campus activities.
Beyond their campus, Epsilon Alpha sisters embrace city life wholeheartedly, from exploring iconic landmarks to cheering on Philly teams at games. Yet, their engagement extends further with volunteer work at local schools and participation in events like the Girls on the Run (GOTR) Philadelphia 5K events.
For Epsilon Alpha sister Jillian Herr, the intimacy of a small chapter fosters deep connections. She shares, “I can tell you something about each of my sisters. They are all my closest friends.”
Chapter President Maura Schankweiler loves being a leader in her chapter, saying, “I love Gamma Phi because it is a place where I am the most comfortable and able to express myself.
I love building the younger generation of girls through GOTR!”
1. LOCAL EATS
Savor Philly's iconic cheesesteak at Dalessandro’s Steaks and Hoagies, Geno’s Steaks or Ishkabibble's Steaks. A friendly debate among locals: Who serves the best cheesesteak?
2.CAMPUS LANDMARK
La Salle University’s Blue Bridge, adorned with locks symbolizing alumni relationships known affectionately as ‘La Soulmates,’ serves as a campus landmark and connects one side of the campus to the other.
3. CAMPUS TRENDS
Mental health is a big one. The University's Wellness Services (SWS) hosts Wellness Wednesdays, offering free mental health resources and fun initiatives on campus. Epsilon Alpha's REAL Wellness chairwoman often partners with SWS to enhance these impactful events.
4. ALPHA EPSILON IN A FEW WORDS
Close-knit, driven and supportive.
true and constant
When Whitney “Whit” Erler (Colorado Mesa) received a ‘build-your-ownbusiness-with-$10’ assignment for her entrepreneurship class, she decided to lean into a beloved childhood hobby of hers. Whit elaborates, “My mom and I have been making jewelry together since I was a kid, so I decided to base my project on that.” Whit invested her $10 into jewelry-making materials and made a handful of anklets, turning her profits into more supplies for anklets to meet the assignment’s requirements. Little did she know that demand for her jewelry would boom beyond her wildest dreams. And most of the demand came from her Eta Tau sisters and other sorority members on campus. Whit landed an A on her assignment, prompting her to develop a more official business and marketing plan, mission statement and website. On November 21, 2022, she released the 2.0 version of her jewelry business, RISA, into the world. Within the first five hours of launching, RISA brought in more than $1,000 in revenue sales. Stunned by this, Whit reminisces, “I remember having to turn my phone off during my gym session because the Shopify notifications went off every couple of minutes, which was quite distracting (in the best way!).” The Crescent sat down with this young startup owner to talk about all things RISA.
1 2
CAN YOU BREAKDOWN THE JOURNEY FROM TURNING YOUR SCHOOL PROJECT INTO RISA?
There were a lot of moving parts that came together to create RISA. The first, and most critical step, was a gift I received from my late grandmother. It was her gold class ring from high school. I wanted to change out all my silver jewelry to gold once I received her ring, but real gold was far too expensive for my college student budget and the affordable jewelry I was buying from big-name stores tarnished so fast, which was frustrating. I realized then that I could utilize my experience in the jewelry arena to offer affordable yet quality gold-plated and gold-filled jewelry that lasts significantly longer than what’s already out there.
HOW DID YOU NAVIGATE THE EARLY STAGES OF RISA'S DEVELOPMENT AND WHAT ROLE DID YOUR SUPPORT NETWORK PLAY?
I had a lot of Gamma Phis help me in the early stages of business. Eta Tau’s former president and current president (my twin and Little) played crucial roles in fulfilling and packaging orders with me. My photographer, Nicole (@nicoleannmedia), helped run the business while I was on a trip to Thailand and did an amazing job! These women were some of my biggest supports, and I couldn’t be more thankful for them.
WHAT IS RISA’S MISSION? HOW DOES THIS SEPARATE RISA FROM ITS COMPETITORS?
The Golden Huggie Hoops, Check Me Out Checkered Huggie Hoops, the custom initial necklaces and, for Gamma Phi Beta sisters everywhere, the Carnation Necklace! 3 4
The mission of RISA is jewelry that inspires joy. I think that’s what a lot of people, particularly young women like college students, want out of life: more joy, more fulfillment, more laughter, more friendships, more goodness. This unique mission separates RISA from its competitors. Plus, people want to support small businesses. I think doing so helps us feel connected to something, like a community. And that’s what I’ve built here: the RISA fam!
WHAT’S THE MEANING BEHIND YOUR BUSINESS’ NAME?
While sitting on the beach in Florida watching a sunrise by myself, I was daydreaming about what I wanted this company to become and the values I wanted it to encompass. I kept picturing people laughing. So, I decided then I would name it RISA, meaning ‘laughter’ in Spanish. I really wanted my brand to act as a reminder to look for all the good in this world.
WHAT ARE SOME SIGNIFICANT CHALLENGES YOU HAVE FACED AS A YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR, AND HOW HAVE YOU OVERCOME THOSE OBSTACLES?
My main challenge has always been time management. When I started RISA, I juggled 15 credit hours, a leadership position within my chapter, two jobs and workouts six days a week, all coupled with homework, friendships and weekly chores. Time was scarce, but RISA remained a priority. Last May, amid graduation, moving, a new relationship and family visits, I neglected RISA and watched my business suffer. It taught me the importance of dedication. Like a child, RISA needs nurturing, feeding and genuine care to thrive. To prevent burnout, I keep it enjoyable, pivoting when necessary. Treating RISA like a business, not just a hobby, is vital, but it's also something I genuinely love and find fulfilling. If it stops filling my cup, I know I can pivot.
WHAT ARE SOME CUSTOMERS’ FAVORITES?
HOW IS OPERATING YOUR OWN BUSINESS MEANINGFUL OR FULFILLING?
RISA brings so much fulfillment and meaning to my life. Its mission and vision are ideals that I get to keep in mind daily while running the business. RISA has helped me get through some really challenging times, like losing my grandparents, and it has proven to me that I can do hard things and that no dream is too big if I put my mind to achieving it.
ANY ADVICE YOU’D GIVE TO YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS?
Just start! Find people who you look up to in business and ask for help. There are so many resources online from people who have done it and want to help you succeed. I believe in you!
Join the RISA Fam at RisaJewelry.Shop and follow 5 6 7 8 @risajewelry
Party In A Box
Can’t make it to one of our celebratory events this year? No problem! You can now bring the 150th Celebration directly to your home with our Party in a Box. Two different boxes are available for purchase, and each includes everything you need to host a memorable 150th event for your sisters. Here’s a look inside each box!
Decor Box - $150
50 150th logo buttons
Two 18" 150th logo balloons
Three silver foil number balloons ("1," "5," "0")
10 18" blush balloons
One set of acrylic letters
Five 150th logo table centerpieces
One hanging banner
Photo booth props
Party games instructions
Game prize: One water bottle
Game prize: One baseball hat
Tableware Box* - $150
25 cupcake picks/cocktail stirrers
50 plates
100 napkins
50 souvenir cups
Three silver foil number balloons ("1," "5," "0")
*It is recommended to purchase a Tableware Box for every 50 guests attending.
For frequently asked questions and to order your boxes, visit GammaPhiBeta.org/150/ Party.
The story of how the Sorority, Foundation and Facilities Management Company converged, flourishing as One Gamma Phi Beta
One Gamma Phi Beta' has become more than just a phrase; it embodies the profound unity achieved among Gamma Phi Beta's three core entities: the Sorority, Foundation and Facilities Management Company (FMC). Together, they form a cohesive whole, sharing resources, personnel and support. Like solid pillars, the Sorority, Foundation and FMC lean on each other to thrive. Without one pillar, the others would falter. One Gamma Phi Beta stands as a testament to our organization's strength, positioning us as a sturdy leader within the National Panhellenic Conference and the broader Greek Life community.
To truly grasp the significance of One Gamma Phi Beta, it's imperative to delve into the unique roles and histories of each entity, beginning with the Sorority.
The Sorority
When we talk about the Sorority, we are referring to the organization built by our fearless Founders in 1874. Helen M. Dodge, Frances E. Haven, Mary A. Bingham and E. Adeline “Addie” Curtis were among the first female students to attend Syracuse University. They faced gender alienation from both their male counterparts and professors alike. Determined to create a space that offered what their campus community lacked — love, support and camaraderie — they founded Gamma Phi Beta Sorority.
Little did Helen, Frances, Mary and Addie know that Gamma Phi Beta would experience exponential growth across North America over the following 15 decades. Since 1874, the Sorority has proudly chartered 190 collegiate chapters throughout the United States and Canada, with more than 250,000 initiated members. Furthermore, that number continues to grow today!
When members join Gamma Phi Beta, they enter that empowering space created by our Founders many moons ago, a haven characterized by love, support and camaraderie. Membership in Gamma Phi Beta also yields personal leadership development and growth, campus community involvement, philanthropic opportunities, social events, access to our vast alumnae network and more.
What distinguishes Gamma Phi Beta from other Greek-letter organizations is our distinctive brand identity. This identity, shaped by our Founders, infuses life and personality into our Sorority through a mission and vision statement as well as symbols, like the crescent moon, imbued with meaning. We know who we are and what we stand for — that’s our brand identity.
Mission
We build confident women of character who celebrate sisterhood and make a difference in the world around us.
Guiding Principles
• We promote lifelong commitment, intellectual and personal growth and service to humanity.
• We perpetuate our heritage as we commit to the growth of our Sorority.
Vision
To inspire the highest type of womanhood.
• We foster enduring friendships.
• We advocate ethical behavior, respect, authenticity, accountability and integrity.
• We aspire to excellence in all that we do.
Symbols
Motto
Founded on a rock.
Core Values
Creed
Gamma Phi Beta from the past has given
A heritage that makes a fuller life.
Gamma Phi Beta in the present bids
Us strive for lasting values and ideals.
Gamma Phi Beta in the days to come
Will prove that fundamentals can endure.
Therefore we shall embody our lives
The truths that make for finer womanhood.
Once more we pledge a loyalty that means
Adherence to all true and noble things;
A learning that enriches all our days
With magic gold that is forever ours;
A labor that each hour will glorify
The simple, common task, the common cause;
A love that will be strong and great enough
To encompass and to pity all the world.
Badge Crescent Moon Light and Dark Brown Pink Carnation
The Foundation
In 1958, at the 48th Convention held in Victoria, British Columbia, pivotal legislation was passed to establish the Gamma Phi Beta Foundation, described as "a trust organized solely for the promotion and encouragement of educational and charitable purposes."
To facilitate tax-deductible contributions to the Foundation, it was registered separately from the Sorority as a 501(c)(3) corporation. Concurrently, Gamma Phi Beta Sorority was incorporated as a 501(c)(7) corporation. Legally distinct entities, they shared the common goal of identifying and funding educational and leadership opportunities that advanced Gamma Phi Beta's mission.
Fast-forward to 1974, the first-ever Foundation logo was created. While the Foundation colors were changed to rose pink and old gold in 1996, they originally featured red
and orange hues. The logo colors have gone through variations over the years, including combinations like hot pink and light pink, and hot pink and dark brown. Today, the Foundation colors mirror those of the Sorority. Similarly, the Foundation's logo bears resemblance to the Sorority's, with the heart icon being the sole discernible difference. A heart symbolizes love and support, encapsulating the Foundation's integral role within our organization.
The Foundation operates under the oversight of the Board of Trustees (BOT), comprising 14 Trustees, including two International Council representatives, and one chair. Each Trustee plays a pivotal role in providing strategic direction, ensuring the Foundation fulfills its mission in alignment with that of the Sorority, while also offering personal financial support.
Mission
We are sisters helping sisters financially sustain and advance the mission of Gamma Phi Beta. Through successful fundraising and stewardship, we support Gamma Phi Beta and her members who have scholarship, leadership, philanthropic and emergency needs.
Vision
To inspire every member to make Gamma Phi Beta a priority philanthropic cause, empowering all sisters to make a difference in the world, now and in the future.
Foundation Logos Overtime
The FMC
In 2012, the Facilities Management Company (FMC), established as the Sorority's international housing entity, emerged to provide crucial assistance to the dedicated volunteers of the Sorority's affiliated house corporations (AHCs). For years, AHCs grappled with challenges stemming from property ownership. The inception of the FMC relieved AHCs of this burden and served as a central hub where volunteers could access support, resources and education on all matters related to housing. From overseeing the management of the Sorority's continually expanding property portfolio to offering guidance to AHCs, the FMC plays a multifaceted role. Moreover, the expansion of International Headquarters (IH) staff was undertaken to address current facility needs and ensure the provision of competitive, inviting facilities.
The FMC operates under the oversight of the Board of Managers (BOM), entrusted with the responsibility of shaping the strategic direction of the company. The BOM ensures that the FMC aligns with and supports the mission and vision of both the FMC and the Sorority. Comprising seven BOM members and one chair, the board plays a pivotal role in guiding the FMC's activities and initiatives.
Mission
To foster welcoming, inclusive spaces that promote sisterhood by providing innovative, industry-leading properties and asset management services for Gamma Phi Beta and her members.
Vision
For collegiate Gamma Phi Betas to have access to living, learning or gathering spaces that foster community and belonging.
Guiding Principles
• We support and enhance the collegiate experience for our members.
• We maintain fiscally prudent and operationally sound practices.
• We provide exceptional volunteer opportunities.
• We make ethical decisions for the greater good.
Originally conceived as a supportive arm of the Sorority, the FMC was never intended to stand as a separate entity. Rather, it was envisioned as a strategic tool to enhance recruitment and extension efforts. To fulfill this vision, IH underwent an expansion to include a dedicated facilities department, overseen by a director of housing (now the chief housing officer). This leadership role manages a team of skilled professionals, including FMC managers and a director of FMC accounting. The FMC team provides comprehensive support and property management to all Sorority-owned and -managed properties. From managing property portfolios to aiding in renovation projects and maintaining facility finances, the FMC plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of Gamma Phi Beta's housing initiatives.
The close integration of the FMC and the Sorority, both physically and operationally, has been instrumental in fostering mutual support and communication between the two entities since 2012. This synergy enables seamless collaboration and promotes the Sorority experience to current and prospective members, many of whom find residence within our facilities to be a significant aspect of their collegiate membership.
Similarly, the Foundation serves as a cornerstone of the Sorority's stability and growth. Initially established as a separate legal entity from Gamma Phi Beta, the Foundation provided a platform for tax-deductible contributions, offering a distinct advantage for donors. However, prior to joining the One Gamma Phi Beta model, the Foundation operated largely independently, with minimal
Under the leadership of Megan Smiley Wick (Washington State), serving as the chief executive officer for all three Gamma Phi Beta entities, the organization has embraced the One Gamma Phi Beta model with enthusiasm and success. Quarterly meetings among the BOT, BOM and lC have fostered greater collaboration, strategic planning and joint
In spring 2023, Gamma Phi Beta hired a group to help conduct a governance evaluation, and through that evaluation we learned that the One Gamma Phi Beta model was, indeed, working. Data from the report* showed that Gamma Phi Beta witnessed increased donor engagement, volunteer participation
effectiveness. The success of the One Gamma Phi Beta model underscores its efficacy in advancing the mission of building confident women of character and fostering sisterhood that makes a
*The full report and all its findings can be found
“The power of Gamma Phi Beta is in our collective strength. When all three entities of the organization, the Sorority, Foundation and FMC are aligned, we achieve better results, faster. It is short-sided to think that any one of our areas operates without impact on the other. In very simple ways, the shift to One Gamma Phi Beta has ensured that we are singing our own songs but in harmony and on the same tempo. We are no longer vying for the attention or engagement of our shared membership, but working in tandem to ensure our messaging, our asks and our offerings are harmonious and mutually beneficial.”
—Autumn L. Hansen (Idaho), International President
Five Ways to Develop Your Personal Style
By Amanda Bernard (Loyola-New Orleans)
As long as I can remember, I have always loved fashion. From the ‘80s scrunchie tie on a t-shirt to ‘00s platform sandals, I’ve stayed on top of trends throughout the decades. Yet, by the early 2010s, the conventional approach of replicating trends no longer suited me. As I transitioned into adulthood, I needed to let my attire mirror my evolving sense of self instead of conforming to external influences. Drawing on years of fashion experience, here are the five concise ways I cultivated my style. I hope they help you do the same!
1. Evaluate
To kickstart my style transformation, I emptied my closet and meticulously evaluated each item. Rediscovering forgotten pieces buried in the clutter, I sorted them into keep or purge categories. Items with tags, bought impulsively without considering my body and lifestyle, ended up in the purge pile. It was a tedious process, but I was left with a closet full of pieces I wanted to wear and enough room that I could see what I had.
2.
Identify Needs
Next, I evaluated what I truly needed, acknowledging my tendency to label wants as needs for shopping justification. Considering my daily activities and preferred outfits, I identified essential items. Working in a casual office with occasional business casual requirements, I found confidence and polish in outfits like jeans paired with a blazer. Recognizing these as genuine needs, I focused on building a wardrobe that aligns with my lifestyle, ensuring I'm wellprepared for work without unnecessary purchases driven by fleeting desires. This process led to a more purposeful and practical selection of clothing that truly serves my daily requirements.
3. Develop Style Goals
After securing my essential wardrobe components, I delved into the enjoyable task of selecting additional items to enhance my style. This is where personal flair takes center stage. Whether it's pairing jeans and a blazer with sneakers and a graphic tee or opting for heels and a feminine top, the core pieces remain constant, producing distinct looks. Beyond the basics, the crucial consideration is the message your outfits convey about you. My style objective revolves
around confidence, femininity and fun, reflected in numerous dresses and pieces adorned with feminine embellishments like ruffle trims.
4. Prioritize
Between core wardrobe needs and style goals, I like to maintain a list of pieces I am currently seeking. If one of my essentials is no longer serving its purpose, replacing it becomes my top priority. While I would love to have an unlimited clothing budget, until then, it's crucial not to be sidetracked by chasing too many trends. Instead, I focus on my wardrobe holistically. I do incorporate a few trendy pieces each season to keep my style fresh, but I am discerning about not overspending on trends. I've learned to only invest in trends that truly resonate with me, regardless of their popularity.
This aspect is highly personal, depending on individual taste, budget constraints and lifestyle considerations. Generally, during the spring, I look for lightweight dresses, opt for a new swimsuit or shorts in the summer, choose denim in the fall and prioritize sweaters in winter. Additionally, I often set my sights on a larger "investment piece" each year. These may include designer bags and shoes, jewelry or an upgrade in the quality of a core wardrobe item.
5. Organize and Reevaluate
It's been more than 10 years since I embarked on this wardrobe refinement journey, and while I'm currently content with the state of my closet, I continually assess and make adjustments based on shifts in my lifestyle and societal changes. As a millennial, I still appreciate my skinny jeans, but I acknowledge that a wider fit is currently more in vogue. Consequently, I find myself reaching for those jeans more frequently nowadays.
Ultimately, the goal is to wake up and effortlessly prepare for the day without feeling overwhelmed by the contents of your closet. Wasting time sorting through items that don't fit, that you don't like or that don't complement anything else in your wardrobe is counterproductive. Dressing up is a daily ritual — it shouldn't induce stress but should be approached with intention.
Meet Amanda!
Amanda Bernard (Loyola-New Orleans) works full time in finance and runs a blog and social media channel inspiring women to wear the clothes they love. You can keep up with her fashion adventures at @dressedofintentions on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
From Vision to Reality
The revitalization of Zeta Iota’s chapter room
This past January, members of Zeta Iota Chapter at Valparaiso University in Valparaiso, Indiana, stepped into their updated chapter room. The update, which took about a year to complete, allowed members to witness the space’s transformation gradually over time, culminating in the January reveal with everything finally in place.
“The final touches added to the chapter room, from the greenery to our neon sign, truly brought the space together in a way that makes it feel more like a home than just a chapter room,” Chapter President Maddie Cannon says.
The $45,000 update adhered to the guidelines for capital improvement to a new facility while also infusing the space with Gamma Phi Beta’s distinctive brand. Central to the room is a sprawling sectional, inviting members to gather and forge lifetime bonds. Two glass cabinets sit beside the room’s mounted TV and proudly display cherished chapter and Sorority artifacts. Vibrant accents in the Sorority’s primary colors of blush, mode, pearl and carnation adorn the room, from throw pillows to area rugs to a trendy neon sign that injects the space with spirit.
“The energy of the space aligns more with the Gamma Phi Beta brand and provides a comfortable and empowering area to host formal chapter meetings, long study nights, watch parties of “The Bachelor” and other sisterhood events,” Maddie adds.
The refresh was a collaborative endeavor orchestrated by the Facilities Management Company (FMC) staff and chapter members alike. Jessica Young and Joel Saslaw, FMC managers, initiated the process by conducting thorough surveys to discern the chapter members’ needs. The verdict was clear: an adaptable space that can transition from a study hub by day to a cozy retreat by night. Jessica and Joel rose to the challenge, delivering an inviting ambiance through a divided layout featuring an elongated table and a sprawling sectional. According to Maddie, the space perfectly meets all the members' hopes and dreams of their gathering space.
"I appreciate the warm and welcoming environment provided for sisters, allowing us to come together and make memories,” she says.
Zeta Iota’s updated chapter room promises both present and future members a haven — a functional space where sisterhood flourishes amidst style and comfort.
The Foundation Room
Here’s what to expect from one of Convention’s time-honored traditions
There are so many exciting happenings at the Convention, one being the fan-favorite Foundation Room. Every biennium, the Foundation Room becomes a hub for longtime volunteers, first-time attendees and members at all stages to connect, reconnect and show their support to the sisterhood that brought them together in the first place. Here’s a look at what to expect from the Foundation Room at Convention 2024 in Chicago, Illinois!
Hearts
Celebrate someone special with a Heart — yours! For $5, $10 or $25, gift a Heart to a special sister or loved one, supporting our organization. Honorees receive acknowledgment emails and can proudly wear Hearts at Convention. Neither you nor your recipient need to attend Convention to participate in this cherished tradition!
Pink Heart: $5
Silver Herat: $10
Gold Heart: $25
Other Happenings
Opportunity Drawing
Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, members and Gamma Phi Beta friends, the opportunity drawing is a trove of treasures, including electronics, Sorority merchandise, gift certificates and more. Every Convention registrant gets a free ticket; additional tickets are $5 each. Funds raised will help provide scholarships, grants and educational opportunities for our members.
Silent Auction (New!)
Get ready to bid and win big! Gamma Phi Beta members and friends can bid on exclusive items like jewelry, gift certificates and vacations. While Convention participants can view items in the Foundation Room, bidders do not need to attend Convention to participate. The auction runs from June 24-29, and all items will be shipped to winners.
Experience a variety of other engaging activities in the Foundation Room. From interactive fun to collecting your Foundation ribbons to mingling with cherished volunteers, it's where excitement, inspiration and connections come alive.
Learn more at GammaPhiBeta.org/ConventionFoundationRoom.
Foundation Room Hours
Wednesday, June 22: Noon-6 p.m.
Thursday, June 23: 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
Friday, June 24: 8 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
Saturday, June 25: 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
All times are in Central Time Zone
The Crescent chatted with Foundation Chair Barbie Chadwick (Vanderbilt) to learn more about the Foundation Room, its vibe and the reasons why this aspect of the Convention is crucial for the overall success of the Sorority.
What about this year’s Foundation Room are you most excited about?
I’m excited about the silent auction we’re adding — silent auctions are so fun! And we’re going to have some great items up for bids. In addition, I always love to see everyone as they visit the Foundation Room — it’s a great way to meet new sisters and tell the story of the Foundation.
What’s the energy like in the Foundation Room?
I t’s like a party in the Foundation Room, where friends, old and new, gather to
connect or reconnect. I love spending time in the room meeting everyone, especially the collegians. I don’t have much opportunity to engage with collegians [in my role], so I really find it fun to show them around the space.
Can you tell our readers why Hearts are so important?
They serve two purposes, both equally important. The first is that they tell the recipient that you think they are a special sister. Secondly, they provide needed funds to support our sisterhood to enhance the member experience with scholarships, fellowships, leadership grants and Loyalty Grants for members facing emergency financial needs. Without this support, we wouldn’t be able to reach as many sisters as we do!
Any advice for first-time Conventioneers?
Challenge yourself to talk to someone
you don’t know. Don’t limit yourself to interacting with your chapter sisters if you're attending with them. As an 'old-timer,' I cherish catching up with old friends, but the most rewarding part is meeting new sisters and learning about their Gamma Phi Beta journey. Also, the leaders of Gamma Phi Beta are just sisters like everyone else. Try to talk with them. You may learn something new about Gamma Phi! Overall, the sisterhood felt at Convention is unparalleled. And this year is going to be even better as we celebrate our 150th.
HEARTS
We acknowledge the passing of the following members and celebrate their part in our circle of sisterhood. This list reflects notifications received at International Headquarters between November 1, 2023, to January 31, 2024. First, maiden, last names and year of Initiation are listed for each deceased member.
Honor a sister with an In Memory Gift. To make an In Memory Gift, visit GammaPhiBeta.org/Donate or call 303.800.2890. View Memorial gifts online at GammaPhiBeta.org/InMemory.
GAMMA (Wisconsin-Madison)
Patricia Finke Schroeder, 1946
Nancy Succop Schroeder, 1948
EPSILON (Northwestern)
Barbara Gasser Asboe, 1947
Marjorie Olson Dome, 1943
Dorothy Hotaling Pospischil, 1971
ETA (California-Berkeley)
Marilyn Morris Ormond, 1963
THETA (Denver)
Cynthia Law Dillon, 1960
Shirley MacDonald Walford, 1942
OMICRON
(Illinois at Urbana-Champaign)
Susan Range Miller, 1980
Marjorie Miller Wanderer, 1938
PI (Nebraska-Lincoln)
Jo Ann O'Brien Cordell, 1950
Jeanne Johnson Pope, 1950
RHO (Iowa)
Shirley Schroll Williams, 1951
SIGMA (Kansas)
Jayne M. Callahan, 1955
Shirley Grounds Duncan, 1950
PSI (Oklahoma)
Beth Adams Craven, 1961
Virginia Sloan Lessert, 1951
Alice Paramore Sharp, 1946
OMEGA (Iowa State)
Kay Nordenson Peterson, 1955
ALPHA DELTA (Missouri-Columbia)
Miranda Halter Carpenter, 1964
Dorothy Hunt Hahn, 1954
ALPHA EPSILON (Arizona)
Judith Havelaar Kersey, 1960
ALPHA ZETA (Texas-Austin)
Bonita Johnson Laurence, 1962
ALPHA ETA (Ohio Wesleyan)
Ann Habley Falker, 1951
ALPHA IOTA (California-Los Angeles)
Nancy Freeman Meredith, 1952
MARGARET “PEG” LE FEVRE ROUSH
BETA GAMMA (Bowling Green, 1943)
Margaret “Peg” Le Fevre Roush was born in Elsmere, New York. She graduated from Bethlehem Central High School in Delmar, New York, in 1942 and Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio, in 1945. She joined our True and Constant sisterhood at Beta Gamma Chapter, where she served as chapter president. Peg married Robert Murray Roush shortly after graduating from college in 1945. Together, they raised three daughters and two sons. Despite managing a full house with five children, Peg made sure to serve her community in a variety of volunteer roles. She was a Cub Scout leader, Girl Scout troop leader, American Red Cross donor for many years and a choir member of her church. Peg will forever be held in the hearts of those she touched, including her five children, 10 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, two great-greatgrandchildren and even more friends.
ALPHA KAPPA (Manitoba)
Barbara Pickard Daly, 1953
ALPHA MU (Rollins)
Martha Rankin Meade, 1944
ALPHA NU (Wittenberg)
Paula Lieftinck-Cannon, 1953
ALPHA PI (West Virginia)
Ella Crynock Dean, 1963
ALPHA UPSILON (Penn State)
Jane Pollins Johnson, 1957
ALPHA PHI (Colorado College)
Margaret Phillips Jensen, 1949
BETA GAMMA (Bowling Green)
Margaret “Peg” Le Fevre Roush, 1943
BETA DELTA (Michigan State)
Diana Gay Winterhalter, 1963
BETA EPSILON (Miami-Ohio)
Sandra Doak Slagle, 1952
BETA ETA (Bradley)
Mary Taylor Koetter, 1950
Joan Christy Pelletier, 1952
BETA THETA (San Jose State)
Joyce Lyman Mather, 1949
BETA OMICRON (Oklahoma City)
Marjorie Booker Forehand, 1951
BETA SIGMA (Washington State)
Mary Johnson Carlson, 1973
GAMMA BETA (Gettysburg)
Nancy Thomas Flemming, 1959
GAMMA EPSILON (Puget Sound)
Ginny Clinton Lovett, 1961
DELTA UPSILON (Georgia)
Tori Leslie Foody, 2012
EPSILON KAPPA (California State-Chico)
Leah Bennett, 1996
JOYCE LYMAN MATHER
BETA THETA (San Jose State, 1949)
Dorothy Joyce Lyman Mather was born in Grand Island, Nebraska. At age six, she and her parents moved to Arcata, California. She was a graduate of Arcata Union High School and San Jose State University, where she was a member of the Beta Theta Chapter of Gamma Phi Beta. Joyce's daughter, Terri Mather Morris (San Diego State), recalls her mother sharing many fond memories of time spent with her sorority sisters, adding “Gamma Phi Beta was an important part of her life.” After college, Joyce returned to Arcata and worked as an executive secretary until she married Deane Mather in 1952, and together, they raised four children. Joyce was an active community volunteer and served on the boards of several organizations. She was also an avid bridge player and loved to travel, especially exploring the culture, sites and foods of France. Terri recalls her mother’s surprise appearance at her own Initiation, saying “She surprised me, standing alongside my other sisters. I now have her pin on my Sorority pillow, affirming another lifetime bond we shared together.”
life loyal
Life Loyal is a special program available for all Gamma Phi Beta members to continue their lifelong support of our beloved Sorority beyond their collegiate years while receiving exclusive benefits. This is just one way to continue your lifetime involvement as a member of Gamma Phi Beta while fulfilling your financial obligations with an easy, one-time payment. The dedication of our alumnae members who continue to be involved and financially supportive helps ensure the future of our traditions and sisterhood.
Thank you to the following sisters who joined Life Loyal between November 1, 2023, through January 31, 2024.
ALPHA (Syracuse)
Joan Alberts Jones
Debbie Crocker McGuire
Suzanne Rosen
GAMMA (Wisconsin-Madison)
Emme Lindberg
DELTA (Boston)
Kate Gerrish
EPSILON (Northwestern)
Marjorie Vogele Kovatch
Lisa Peterson Rumin
ETA (California-Berkeley)
Grace Kull
THETA (Denver)
Tamara Amuttirat-Smith
Katie Lee
Ashley Miers
Beverly Yuchs Petry
LAMBDA (University of Washington)
Chrissy Ramstedt Acarregui
Graycelin Hare
Karina Birkeland Stark
MU (Stanford)
Julia Cosma
NU (Oregon)
Hannah Mapatis
XI (Idaho)
Sarah Francisco Barker
OMICRON (Illinois at Urbana-Champaign)
Carol Mann
PI (Nebraska-Lincoln)
Michaela Mapes
RHO (Iowa)
Deborah Bailey Astroth
Barbara Mores Johnson
SIGMA (Kansas)
Brenda Press Harden
Carolyn Kunz Patterson
TAU (Colorado State)
Meg Schott Dawson
CHI (Oregon State)
Elizabeth Houser Morse
PSI (Oklahoma)
Melissa Marshall Lutz
Ashley Strain
ALPHA BETA (North Dakota)
Kate Nagle Morgen
Nicole Iverson Neesham
ALPHA EPSILON (Arizona)
Gillian Beauchamp
Charla Bennett
ALPHA THETA (Vanderbilt)
Susan Nesbit Dayvault
ALPHA IOTA (California-Los Angeles)
Marina Villalpando Lemas
ALPHA NU (Wittenberg)
Lynn Eckel O'Neill
ALPHA OMICRON (North Dakota State)
Kay Gilleshammer Halverson
Barbara Helmeke Peppersack
ALPHA PHI (Colorado College)
Renee Mestad
ALPHA PSI (Lake Forest)
Wynn Ruger Ward
ALPHA OMEGA (Western Ontario)
Eileen Lasswell Botting
BETA ALPHA (Southern California)
Olivia Acarregui
Ricki Richards
BETA BETA (Maryland)
Reeves Horowitz Eisen
BETA DELTA (Michigan State)
Jennifer Hartke
BETA EPSILON (Miami-Ohio)
Joyce Griffin Crone
BETA MU (Florida State)
Suzie Anderson Cox
Emily Rundle
Elizabeth Bell Scholze
BETA NU (Vermont)
Pamela Juckett Zarb
BETA XI (Ohio State)
Lily Voellm
BETA RHO (Colorado-Boulder)
Pamela Aden
Pamela Templeton Wootten
BETA SIGMA (Washington State)
Lisa Bliss
Kari Hingst
BETA TAU (Texas Tech)
Sarah Learmonth Pierson
Mary Reinhardt Smith
BETA UPSILON (Kansas State)
Linda Lehman-Murphy
BETA CHI (Wichita State)
Rebecca Stansfield
GAMMA GAMMA (Wisconsin-Milwaukee)
Renee Passis Thaler
GAMMA ETA (California State-Long Beach)
Anne Burns Pollinger
GAMMA IOTA (Midwestern State)
Rachel Morgan
Kristan Berry Neeb
GAMMA OMICRON (Kentucky)
Julie Mudd
Grace Neri
GAMMA UPSILON (Drake)
Vicki Asprooth Roy
GAMMA OMEGA (Wisconsin-Platteville)
Stephanie Sutton
DELTA ETA (California-Irvine)
Gayatri Sitaraman Choudhary
DELTA IOTA (Purdue)
Deanna Merideth Coleman
DELTA LAMBDA (California-Riverside)
Stacey Stilwagen Edwards
Lori Montigel
DELTA SIGMA (Florida Institute of Technology)
Micah Oltmann
DELTA TAU (Colgate)
Tana Bachert Brown
DELTA CHI (California State-Sacramento)
Karen Cervarich Donnelly
DELTA PSI (California-Santa Barbara)
Julianne Braime
EPSILON ZETA (Jacksonville)
Andrea Atran
EPSILON KAPPA (California State-Chico)
Azita Houshangi
EPSILON LAMBDA (Alabama)
Amanda Smith Alexander
Nicole Howison Britton
EPSILON OMICRON (California-Santa Cruz)
Andie Cervantes
Courteney Goldman
Andrea Soria
EPSILON PI (George Mason)
Isabella Strom
EPSILON PSI (North Carolina-Asheville)
Gabbi Paluzzi
ZETA ALPHA (Eastern Washington)
Andrea Bennett Higgins
ZETA DELTA (Southeast Missouri State)
Chance Williams
ZETA ETA (Lander)
Maddy Strawn
ZETA IOTA (Valparaiso)
Molly Hetzner Rabe
ZETA NU (Detroit Mercy)
Sarah Bussa
ZETA OMEGA (Kennesaw State)
Brooke Beaty
ETA ALPHA (Lake Erie)
Sarah Wojciechowski Watson
ETA EPSILON (Virginia Tech)
Sydney Parbs
ETA XI (Florida)
Teri Champion Chadwick
ETA RHO (Nevada-Las Vegas)
Julia Kang
ETA SIGMA (Central Missouri)
Riamanda Branson
THE GIFT OF
Life Loyal
Celebrate a Gamma Phi in your life with the gift of Life Loyal! A one-time payment of $299* will fulfill the recipient’s international alumnae dues obligations for life and unlock exclusive benefits to them, including a lifelong subscription to The Crescent. Don’t know a specific Gamma Phi who would appreciate this gift? Consider supporting a graduating senior with a Life Loyal membership to keep them connected to their Sorority as they transition from a collegian to an alumna.
To learn more, visit GammaPhiBeta.org/Membership/Life-Loyal/About-Life-Loyal
*We are pleased to offer Gamma Phi Betas who initiated in or before 1971 a reduced one-time membership dues fee of $189.
Crafting Excellence: The Art of Selecting the Next Biennium’s Leaders
The behind-the-scenes look of the Nominating Committee’s leadership selection process
Every two years, Gamma Phi Beta welcomes a fresh cohort of outstanding leaders poised to propel our Sorority forward. These individuals are more than leaders. They are visionaries committed to advancing our strategic priorities, navigating industry and cultural landscapes and nurturing Gamma Phi Beta's unwavering dedication to belonging, equity, diversity and inclusion (BEDI). Together, they form two pivotal boards: International Council (IC) and the Nominating Committee (NC).
But who discovers these visionary leaders? And what does the process of locating them look like? Enter the NC.
The NC is composed of seven elected alumnae members, two appointed collegiate members, two appointed collegiate alternates and one appointed chair. These dedicated individuals commit to a two-year term, starting from their election until they present the NC Report at the conclusion of their term. Their mission? To ensure the prosperity of our sisterhood by meticulously identifying, recruiting and nominating qualified candidates for election biennially to serve on both the NC and IC. The NC Report stands as a testament to their rigorous efforts, offering a comprehensive overview of the process undertaken to slate candidates for leadership roles within these important boards. To view the 2022-24’s NC Report in its entirety, scan the QR code below.
The NC helps identify leaders to serve on IC and the NC for the following biennium. The March before Convention, the NC meets to slate leaders suited to serve on the NC and IC to present to our sisterhood. This year, that event took place on March 22-25, in Anaheim, California. The 2022-24 NC enjoyed the sunny West Coast weather while conducting thorough reviews of each applicant's materials, including application, biographic information, comment forms, interview recordings and more.
From this weekend, the 2022-24 NC confidently compiled two teams of candidates for presentation to our membership to serve on IC and the NC for the 2024-26 biennium. They are (drumroll, please)…
International Council 2024-26
International President: Stephanie Gauchat Carriere (Arizona)
International Vice President: Callie Cox Bauer (Minnesota)
International Vice President: Teresa Jones Haney (Northern Arizona)
International Vice President: Lindsay Healless (Wisconsin-Milwaukee)
International Vice President: Jessica Jecmen (Oklahoma City)
International Vice President: Lillian Hallstrand Lammers (Denver)
International Vice President: Kristen Heine Slaughter (Florida State)
Running From The Floor
Our Bylaws allow any member who applied during the NC slating process to run from the floor if they notify the NC chair by April 15. The following member indicated her intent to run from the floor for the position of Vice President: Victoria LopezHerrera (Alumna Initiate).
Delegates who attend Convention vote on these candidates, determining who will lead our organization for the next two years.
The 2022-24 NC in Anaheim, California, during the slating weekend. Members pictured include NC Chair Tanya Jordan (Purdue) and NC Members Bree Brownlee (Alma), Lindsay Champion (Southern Methodist), Jennifer Chuang (California-Berkeley), Kelly Brown Dunne (William & Mary), Tamara Rudnicki (Jacksonville), Chandra Soule (Nebraska-Lincoln), Marlo Tapley (ColoradoBoulder) and Collegiate Members LeAnne Bugay (Nebraska-Lincoln) and Hallie Horner (Nebraska-Lincoln).
From the 2022-24 NC
To gain deeper insights into the NC process and what the committee looks for in potential candidates for elected-levels of service, The Crescent chatted with Tanya Jordan (Purdue), who has an expansive volunteer history within Gamma Phi Beta, including her most recent role as the 2022-24 NC Chair.
TWO COLLEGIATE MEMBERS SIT ON THE NC. WHY IS IT IMPORTANT FOR THE COMMITTEE TO HAVE
Collegiate members of Gamma Phi Beta represent 8% of our membership, making them a critical voice in who our next leaders should be. They bring a unique perspective to the process, which is valued and needed. Collegians who serve on NC can make their voices heard at the international level. Personally, they gain a deeper connection to and understanding of our sisterhood on an international level. But don’t take it from me, take it from Hallie Horner (Nebraska-Lincoln), who serves as a collegiate member on the NC and said the following of her experience:
Being surrounded by women who embody the highest type of womanhood has been one of the biggest highlights of serving on the NC. Women who inspire and truly want the best for the continuation of Gamma Phi Beta make up this wonderful team, and having the chance to look up to them has been so impactful.
IS PRIOR VOLUNTEER LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE WITHIN GAMMA PHI BETA NECESSARY FOR ALUMNAE MEMBERS TO APPLY TO SERVE ON EITHER IC OR THE NC?
Gamma Phi Beta knowledge is one of the member competencies that we use to evaluate applicants. While this is an important skill, we understand that not every applicant will be strong in every competency — and GPB knowledge is the same. The focus of the NC slating process is to build a team, not just a group of skilled individuals. Thus, not everyone has to excel in every competency. So no, you don’t necessarily have to have volunteer leadership experience to apply for elected service but understanding our organization and how it works certainly helps.
HOW DO YOU ADDRESS TEAM MEMBER BIAS WHEN REVIEWING THE APPLICATION PROCESS?
This is a very important topic that has been continually addressed by the past several NC teams. Every team for the past four years has participated in implicit bias training by the Kirwan Institute. This training introduces our members to insights into how our minds operate and helps them understand the origins of implicit associations. They also uncover some of their own biases and learn strategies for addressing them. We then use these tactics to review the application process and when evaluating applicants. One important step we took starting four years ago was to redact the biographic identifying data of each application during the initial application review. Applicants were initially evaluated based on their answers only to help reduce potential bias. In addition, as the chair, I do not read any of the applications or watch any interviews to allow for my facilitation of the process to also reduce bias.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST REWARDING PART ABOUT SERVING AS THE NC CHAIR?
This has been one of my favorite volunteer roles, and I’ve had many over 25 years. I have truly enjoyed seeing this group of women come together so quickly as a team to make such important decisions. I’m so impressed how each of them used their strengths to step into different needed roles on the team and rose to the occasion. While I personally love the project management aspect of the position, which is a strength for me, the more rewarding part is facilitating the important considerations of the team and helping them navigate through challenging discussions.
To learn more about the NC, visit GammaPhiBeta.org/NominatingCommittee
SPRING 2024 Volume 126, No. 2
International Headquarters
9155 E. Nichols Ave. Suite 330 Centennial, CO 80112P 303.799.1874 F 303.799.1876 GammaPhiBeta.org thecrescent@gammaphibeta.org
The Crescent Staff
EDITORIAL MANAGER
Elizabeth Liberatore eliberatore@gammaphibeta.org
CREATIVE MANAGER
Maddy Chapman (Minnesota-Twin Cities) mchapman@gammaphibeta.org
While our members are in college, their copy of The Crescent is sent to your home address — we hope you enjoy reading our magazine, too! If your daughter is no longer in college, or is no longer living with you, feel free to send us her new address by emailing thecrescent@gammaphibeta.org
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The Crescent of Gamma Phi Beta (USPS 137620) is published quarterly by Gamma Phi Beta Sorority, 9155 E. Nichols Ave. Suite 330 Centennial, CO 80112. Periodicals postage paid at Englewood, CO, and at additional mailing offices. Produced in the U.S.A.
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