El Girasol ~ Spring 2014

S p r i n g 2014 E dition

O mega P hi B eta’s N ational S orority M agazine

table

of

contents 6

25TH ANNIVERSARY REFLECTIONS

7

ONE SEED POEM BY FOUNDER NIEVE

10 1989 ; A LOOK BACK IN TIME 22

NST CELERATES ITS 15TH ANNIVERSARY

26

THE 25TH YEAR TURNING POINT

26

6 A

18

Reflection of 25 Years...

E l G ir a sol

Omega Phi Beta’s National Sorority Magazine E ditor I n C hief

Selina Hernandez, Alpha Beta, Fal11999

C opy E ditor Marielys Garcia, Alpha Gamma, Spring 2007

D esign E ditor Desiree Henry, Theta, Fal12000

C on t r ibu ting W r iter s

Yvette Lopez Colgan, Theta, Spring 1998 Doris Corporan, Theta, Fal1 2000 Isabel Diaz, Zeta Chapter, Spring 2009 Maria Rosa, Eta, Spring 2008 Chear Treacy, Delta, Spring 1992 Rebecca Roberts, Alpha, Spring 1998 Jane Vega, Founder

C on tact U s !

14 2 *El Girasol * Spring 2014

ElGirasol@OmegaPhiBeta.org S u b S cr ibe to E l G ir a sol ht t p://issuu.com/OPBSI_ElGirasol

In

Every ISSUe

4

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

5

STAYING CONNECTED

28

SUNSHINE CORNER

3 0 BETA MOMMIES 31

PERSONAL/PROFESSIONAL A C C O M P L I S H M E N T S

33

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE RES O U R C E S

34

BETA YELLOW PAGES

35

CHAPTERS AND COLONIES

Alumnae Association Mission Statement Omega Phi Beta’s Alumnae Association serves as the representing body of all nonaffiliated alumnae of the sorority. Our mission is to engage our alumnae in the mission, vision, and goals of the sorority, create a sense of community, and support our alumnae in all areas of their lives.

Omega Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, a NALFO organization member, is a Latina-oriented sorority founded on March 15, 1989, at the University at Albany, State University of New York. Seventeen women of various ethnic and cultural backgrounds came together to defy the injustices suffered by women, particularly women of color, in the academic, professional and political arenas.

12

A TRIBUTE TO BLACK HISTORY MONTH

14

A LESSON IN WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

17

BETA COOKING: SLOW COOKER SPLIT PEA SOUP

18

A MESSAGE OF HOPE, STRENGTH & COURAGE

19

KNOW THE FACTS: OVARIAN CANCER

24

NEW ORLEANS: BEYOND MARDI GRAS

Feature Articles

The purpose of OPBSI is to serve and educate people of diverse backgrounds through sisterhood, leadership, and guidance. As positive role models, we promote unity of all cultures, focus on the empowerment of our gender and raise the standards of excellence in our academic, social, and personal endeavors.

For further information visit: www.OmegaPhiBeta.org Spring 2014*El Girasol * 3

Letter

from the

Editor

Selina Hernandez, Ascendera

25 years, wow!

How years go by so quickly. This issue is filled with content from our beautiful membership that include a reflection of 25 years of Omega Phi Beta, life struggles, joy and other enthralling information that make this issue one of my favorite!

Included in this is a reflection of what was happening in 1989, some events in history are painfully familiar, some nostalgic and some quite captivating. As a Sister of Omega Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. for over tens years, I am glad to see its metamorphosis but, more so I am glad for the friendships and bonds I have cultivated throughout those years. Being a part of something so special and unique is a beautiful thing.

I thank those that have contributed to this issue because they truly gave from their hearts, which is not always easy. I hope you enjoy the sheros that are a part of this issue.

4 *El Girasol * Spring 2014

Get Connected Once you become an alumna, you are removed from your chapter’s alias and only receive OPBSI emails if you elect to sign up for any of the following communication tools.

Do you Tweet?

Follow us, @OPBSI_Alumnae, for the latest updates on AA activities!

Share Photos on Instagram?

Follow us @OPBSI_Alumnae, for the latest updates on AA activities! Tag us in your photos too.

AA Newsletter The Alumnae Association collects the emails of alumnae and adds it to their distribution list. Find out about activities for alumnae.

Get LinkedIn with OPBSI!

@

Job postings, virtual networking, and professional development opportunities. Join the Omega Phi Beta LinkedIn Group today! This is a closed group for sorors only.

Find us on Facebook

There is a main OPBSI Alumnae Association group page and various indutry related groups. Stay connected, share ideas, articles and jobs. These are closed group for sorors only.

Spring 2014*El Girasol * 5

25th Anniversary

ReflFLections Jane Vega, Founder

Nieve

Ok, so let me catch my breath. Twenty-five years, fourteen states, over fifty chapters and collectives, numerous awards and championships, our new Foundation, tax exempt status and our heartbeat and our hum is as strong as the day we were created. Each and every sister and supporter are important pieces to the OPBSI configuration and we wouldn’t be as whole without you. We are, by far a beacon of light. OPBSI is an avenue for women to become catalysts in their own worlds and we help train women to become advocates for the whole world.

From the very beginning we wanted to find and provide opportunities to inform, educate and uplift our sisters, regardless of age, culture, religion, economic status or claimed affiliations.

My boundless pride is seeing wave after wave of the most intelligent, charismatic, clever and talented women, take this organization I love so much and bring it to the place it is now.

My time on the BOT has been a beautiful reminder of how hard we are working and how we are still striving to be the best women we can be. The investment of time and effort from every sister and supporter allows OPBSI to spread her wings and be a growing, living thing.

Omega Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, remains aglow, and we burn even brighter because of the great variety of organizations that now exist. Having an opportunity to define what was important to each of us was essential.

Yet, witnessing other organizations bloom, from before and after our time, brings me great joy.

Seeing my sisters interact, network and build with different organizations toward the betterment of all our communities is a beautiful thing. We have never shunned trying to unify on a cause or a movement. It is at the core of who we are. Today, we envision a world free of violence and injustice against women. Today, we are a catalyst towards its abolishment.

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This 25th Anniversary Celebration marks the start of a new chapter for the Radiant Sisters of the Black, Forest Green and Gold. Our future is based on all of the steps we take today. All of the ways that we expose ourselves to growth, to new ideas, to technology and to more efficient ways of operating and gathering, allow us to get better, to get stronger and to be a healthier organization.

This March 15th begins a new era for OPBSI -- an era I am blessed to be a part of. It is an era of accomplishing milestones we only dared to dream. We don’t talk of what we can’t do, only of what we will do.

My sisters, hermanas, hear my voice, heed my words. Each of you will forever maintain a piece of me and I a piece of all of you.

I believe I can speak for all the Founders when I say that our deepest, most genuine pride comes from being humbled, each and every time we realize how fantastic you all are -- women we were blessed to inspire.

Women we were proud to lead. Women we were eager to follow. We learned just as much, if not more than we taught. Together, we are stronger. Together, we continue to reach. Together, we continue to grow. Together, and only together, we are, Omega Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated.

One Seed

By Nieve

I was there when she was young.

Compassionate and gentle.

Oh her beauty was so bright.

No need to force the point.

Not many understood,

Within our hearts, our minds our souls,

But it did not stop her giving light.

The seeds to blooms came forth.

Harder than she knew,

Now as I look back at this garden,

She did not bow her head, not once.

I compare it to her youth.

She was seeking out the truth,

It has forged and grown and multiplied.

Willing to risk it all for some.

More beautiful than what can be proved.

Humble yes, but ready.

So I sit quiet in my admiration.

Wanting to help, to teach, to cure.

As I watch her shed and grow her leaves.

Trying to shine the spotlight,

Quite amazing she is her garden,

How together we are so much more.

Quietly started with one seed.

Rebecca Roberts, Alpha Chapter Nomeolvides

I kind of think of the past 25 years of OPBSI like the building of a home. I remember feeling super lucky when I got the chance to attend our 10th Anniversary in Albany in 1999. It meant I was part of the first decade of amazing women who helped lay the foundation of this organization.

It was history in the making. I was also lucky enough to be part of the building of our framework as we hit other milestones.

And now I am thrilled to be a part of our 25th Anniversary celebration where I hope to see the next generation of Beta Women blossom as leaders and focus on the building of our interior structure.

We are a living, breathing, still youthful organization. We have expanded coast to coast. Our home has grown far beyond my imagination. I look forward to many more milestones. But this one will make its mark as we open our home to the new Omega Phi Beta Foundation. how lucky am I to be witness to this awesome accomplishment?!

Spring 2014*El Girasol * 7

Cher Treacy, Delta Chapter Tigressa It’s in My Heart…It’s in My Soul

Infinity would like to extend our warmest and sincerest greetings….I still cannot believe that it has been 22 years since I first chanted that phrase along with my beloved linesisters. (And it even more unbelievable that so many of you who are reading this were not even born yet!)

You have to remember, there was no Facebook or Instagram or even the internet (as we know it now) to be able to do research about organizations that did not exist on your campus. We did not have a National Step/Stroll Team that traveled around, spreading the buzz about the Betas.

I found out about this organization because of a poster hanging in the Binghamton University Union, advertising an informational meeting that would be taking place.

Being part of a chartering intake group was scary, exciting, entertaining, and exhausting all at the same time and through every minute of our process. Looking back on those days, as well as the decades that followed, I would not change a thing. The people I have met, the bonds I have formed and the experiences that I have been afforded due to being a member of this organization are, as cliché as it sounds, priceless.

According to my sister certificate, I was #15 to be inducted into the organization. That small, tight-knit group of us wanted to change the world and knew that what we pledged to be a part of would change our lives. Many of the women who I consider to be my dearest friends came into my life because of Omega Phi Beta. We’ve celebrated each other through the joys of love, travel, marriage, career success, babies and new homes, but we’ve also supported each other through the devastation of divorce, career disappointment, accidents, illness and death. That is what true sisters do, without question. You will see many of these amazing women during this weekend, because they still hold this sisterhood close to their hearts.

8 *El Girasol * Spring 2014

(Shout out to the “Seasoned” Betas!

This includes you, Founders!) Please, take the time to introduce yourself to them (most of them don’t bite), ask them questions about “the old days” and soak in the knowledge that they are more than willing to share with you.

Make connections with sisters who might be able to help as you choose a major, or run a chapter, or take on a National level position, or enter the workforce, or buy a home.

Someday in the future, you may have the opportunity to be that same source of support for another sister. Omega Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. is a force of hundreds of women across the nation who can and do influence the lives of people they come into contact with. Never forget that.

Let this National Convention weekend rejuvenate you and inspire you to make moves as only Beta women can. Let it remind you of the vision of our 17 Radiant Founders and your part in remaining true to that vision and passing it on to those who follow. My Deans, Lori Rodriguez and Founder Sylvia Toledo (and my “3rd Dean” Founder Ileana Adorno) instilled that vision in me well before I earned my letters. That is what keeps me here, more than two decades later.

On March 15, 2014, I will be raising a glass to all of you, my fabulous sisters and my beloved Founders in celebration of 25 years of RADIANCE! Here’s to many, many more!

Soleil!

Happy 25 Anniversary th

Omega Phi Beta

Saida Abrego Ileana Adorno Ana E. Almonte T. Lisa Auson Bevene B. Bablington Brunilda Y. Cruz

Sara Delgado Nancy Diaz Frances Echevarria Annette A. Ettrick Lissette Jorge Samantha P. Lopez

Renee Padilla Grace Rivera Sylvia Toledo Michelle Vasquez Jane M. Vega

Spring 2014*El Girasol * 9

A Look Back at... 1989

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Spring 2014*El Girasol * 11

A

Tribute to

Black History Month The origins of Black History Month can be traced back to a man named Carter G. Woodson (1875-1950).

Woodson was the son of former slaves, whose family was too poor to send him to school as a child. He taught himself the basics of a school education. At age 20, Woodson was finally able to attend high school, which he completed in just two years.

Carter G. Woodson

African-American writer and historian known as the “Father of Black History Month.”

In 1915, he traveled to Chicago to participate in a three-week celebration of the 50th anniversary of the end of slavery. The excitement and enthusiasm generated by the events inspired Woodson to continue the study of black history year-round. Before leaving Chicago, Woodson and four others created the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH) on September 9, 1915. The following year, the ASNLH began publication of the Journal of Negro History.

Woodson realized that most textbooks at the time ignored the history and achievements of blacks.

Thus, in addition to the journal, he wanted to find a way to encourage interest and study of black history.

12 *El Girasol * Spring 2014

He then went on to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree from the University of Chicago. In 1912, Woodson became only the second African American to earn a doctorate from Harvard University (W.E.B. Du Bois was the first). Woodson used his hard-earned education to teach. He taught both in public schools and at Howard University. Three years after earning his doctorate, Woodson made a trip that had a great impact on him.

As a Harvard-trained historian, Carter G. Woodson, like W. E. B. Du Bois before him, believed that truth could not be denied and that reason would prevail over prejudice. His hopes to raise awareness of African American’s contributions to civilization was realized when he and the organization he founded,the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH), conceived and announced Negro History Week in 1925.

The event was first celebrated during a week in February 1926.

The response was overwhelming: Black history clubs sprang up; teachers demanded materials to instruct their pupils; and progressive whites, not simply white scholars and philanthropists, stepped forward to endorse the effort.

The idea caught on quickly and Negro History Week was soon celebrated around the United States. With a high demand for study materials, the ASNLH began to produce pictures, posters, and lesson plans to help teachers bring Negro History Week into schools. In 1937, the ASNLH also began producing the Negro History Bulletin, which focused on an annual theme for Negro History Week.

Woodson chose the second week of February to celebrate Negro History Week because that week included the birthdays of two important men: President Abraham Lincoln (February 12) and Frederick Douglass (February 14).

By the time of Woodson’s death in 1950, Negro History Week had become a central part of African American life and substantial progress had been made in bringing more Americans to appreciate the celebration. At mid–century, mayors of cities nationwide issued proclamations noting Negro History Week.

The Black Awakening of the 1960s dramatically expanded the consciousness of African Americans about the importance of black history, and the Civil Rights movement focused Americans of all color on the subject of the contributions of African Americans to our history and culture.

The celebration was expanded to a month in 1976, the nation’s bicentennial. President Gerald R. Ford urged Americans to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” That year, fifty years after the first celebration, the association held the first African American History Month.

By this time, the entire nation had come to recognize the importance of Black history in the drama of the American story. Since then each American president has issued African American History Month proclamations. And the association—now the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH)—continues to promote the study of Black history all year.

This article was sourced from: http://www.africanamericanhistorymonth.gov/about.html http://history1900s.about.com/od/1920s/p/blackhistorymonth.htm Part of essay by Daryl Michael Scott, Howard University, for the Association for the Study of African American Life and History

THE PRAGMATIC DOULA

BIRTHING SERVICES

By Yvette Lopez Colgan My mission is to support, educate and empower women to create their most ‘natural’ birthing experience; without judgment or regret. To advocate on behalf of all expectant moms so they are able to realize their best birth experience with no outside pressure or influence. I use my knowledge and life experiences to help guide you through the birthing process with dignity and respect.

If you are expecting, contact me at ylopez333@hotmail.com or (917) 716 - 3516

Deep discounts for Betas available Spring 2014*El Girasol * 13

A

LEsson in

, Womens History

international women’s day March 8th is International Women’s Day and has been observed since in the early 1900’s, a time of great expansion and turbulence in the industrialized world that saw booming population growth and the rise of radical ideologies.

1908

1909

Great unrest and critical debate was occurring amongst women. Women’s oppression and inequality was spurring women to become more vocal and active in campaigning for change. Then in 1908, 15,000 women marched through New York City demanding shorter hours, better pay and voting rights.

In accordance with a declaration by the Socialist Party of America, the first National Woman’s Day (NWD) was observed across the United States on 28 February. Women continued to celebrate NWD on the last Sunday of February until 1913.

Protesting the Triange Shir t factor y f ire in 1911

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1913-1914

The National A ssociation Opposed to Woman Suf frage was formed in New York City in 1911. They believed that women suf frage would decrease women’s work in communityes and their ability to ef fect social reform.

1910 In 1910 a second International Conference of Working Women was held in Copenhagen. A woman named a Clara Zetkin (Leader of the ‘Women’s Office’ for the Social Democratic Party in Germany) tabled the idea of an International Women’s Day. She proposed that every year in every country there should be a celebration on the same day - a Women’s Day - to press for their demands. The conference of over 100 women from 17 countries, representing unions, socialist parties, working women’s clubs, and including the first three women elected to the Finnish parliament, greeted Zetkin’s suggestion with unanimous approval and thus International Women’s Day was the result.

1911 Following the decision agreed at Copenhagen in 1911, International Women’s Day (IWD) was honoured the first time in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland on 19 March. More than one million women and men attended IWD rallies campaigning for women’s rights to work, vote, be trained, to hold public office and end discrimination. However less than a week later on 25 March, the tragic ‘Triangle Fire’ in New York City took the lives of more than 140 working women, most of them Italian and Jewish immigrants. This disastrous event drew significant attention to working conditions and labour legislation in the United States that became a focus of subsequent International Women’s Day events.

1911 also saw women’s ‘Bread and Roses’ campaign.

On the eve of World War I campaigning for peace, Russian women observed their first International Women’s Day on the last Sunday in February 1913.

In 1913 following discussions, International Women’s Day was transferred to 8 March and this day has remained the global date for International Women’s Day ever since. In 1914 further women across Europe held rallies to campaign against the war and to express women’s solidarity.

1917 On the last Sunday of February, Russian women began a strike for “bread and peace” in response to the death over 2 million Russian soldiers in war.

Opposed by political leaders the women continued to strike until four days later the Czar was forced to abdicate and the provisional Government granted women the right to vote. The date the women’s strike commenced was Sunday 23 February on the Julian calendar then in use in Russia. This day on the Gregorian calendar in use elsewhere was 8 March.

1918 - 1999 Since its birth in the socialist movement, International Women’s Day has grown to become a global day of recognition and celebration across developed and developing countries alike. For decades, IWD has grown from strength to strength annually. For many years the United Nations has held an annual IWD conference to coordinate international efforts for women’s rights and participation in social, political and economic processes. 1975 was designated as ‘International Women’s Year’ by the United Nations.

Women’s organisations and governments around the world have also observed IWD annually on 8 March by holding large-scale events that honour women’s advancement and while diligently reminding of the continued vigilance and action required to ensure that women’s equality is gained and maintained in all aspects of life.

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National Woman’s Par t y members photog raphed on 6/2/1920, holding a banner that read s, “No Self Respecting Woman Should Wi sh or Work for the Success of a Par t y that Ig nores Her Sex.”

2000 and beyond IWD is now an official holiday in Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, China (for women only), Cuba, Georgia, Guinea-Bissau, Eritrea, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Madagascar (for women only), Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Nepal (for women only), Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Vietnam and Zambia. The tradition sees men honouring their mothers, wives, girlfriends, colleagues, etc with flowers and small gifts. In some countries IWD has the equivalent status of Mother’s Day where children give small presents to their mothers and grandmothers.

The new millennium has witnessed a significant change and attitudinal shift in both women’s and society’s thoughts about women’s equality and emancipation. Many from a younger generation feel that ‘all the battles have been won for women’ while many feminists from the 1970’s know only too well the longevity and ingrained complexity of patriarchy. With more women in the boardroom, greater equality in legislative rights, and an increased critical mass of women’s visibility as impressive role models in every aspect of life, one could think that women have gained 16 *El Girasol * Spring 2014

true equality. The unfortunate fact is that women are still not paid equally to that of their male counterparts, women still are not present in equal numbers in business or politics, and globally women’s education, health and the violence against them is worse than that of men.

However, great improvements have been made.

We do have female astronauts and prime ministers, school girls are welcomed into university, women can work and have a family, women have real choices. And so the tone and nature of IWD has, for the past few years, moved from being a reminder about the negatives to a celebration of the positives.

Annually on 8 March, thousands of events are held throughout the world to inspire women and celebrate achievements. A global web of rich and diverse local activity connects women from all around the world ranging from political rallies, business conferences, government activities and networking events through to local women’s craft markets, theatric performances, fashion parades and more.

Many global corporations have also started to more actively support IWD by running their own internal events and through supporting external ones. For example, on 8 March search engine and media giant Google some years even changes its logo on its global search pages. Year on year IWD is certainly increasing in status. The United States even designates the whole month of March as ‘Women’s History Month’.

So make a difference, think globally and act locally !!

Make everyday International Women’s Day. Do your bit to ensure that the future for girls is bright, equal, safe and rewarding SOUrCE

Internationalwomensday.com is a global hub for sharing International Women’s Day information, events, news and resources.

Beta Cookin’g Slow cooker split pea soup

By Jane Vega

Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup w/ Nann Toast Points Serves 8-10 people 1 bag of split pea lentils (green or yellow are fine) 2 large carrots peeled and chopped 2 medium potatoes small chop 3 cloves garlic finely chopped 1 medium onion small chop 3 Bay leaves 2 tsp of Italian Seasonings (oregano will do) salt/pepper to taste 1 pound of ground beef 75-80% lean 1 can of corn drained 8-10 cups of hot water In a large saucepan, bring your water to almost boiling.

While your water is heating up, in your slow cooker layer peas, carrots, potatoes, 2 bay leaves, 1tsp of Italian seasonings, corn and pepper.

In a sauté pan, brown ground beef with half of the chopped onion and garlic, 1 bay leaf and 1 tsp of Italian seasonings. Lightly salt and pepper to taste. Drain and discard oil from ground beef. Take hot ground beef and lay as a top layer in your slow cooker.

Now add your hot water to slow cooker. Cover. Place slow cooker on high for 4.5 – 5 hours or low for 7 hours.

Adjust water to suit your preferred soup thickness. Salt the soup to taste towards the end of the cooking process.

Remember your ground beef was salted prior to adding it to the slow cooker. If you over salt - try adding a large potato cut in half, it will absorb some of the saltiness.

Discard those pieces before serving. The beauty of the slow cooker is how nicely the pea breaks down.

In a pot on the stove, I would be adding water every 1015 minutes and I would still use a handheld blender to smooth the soup out. No babysitting this soup needed.

All you have to do is stir, and don’t bother to do that until at least hour 3!

Toasted Nann triangle tips Take a store bought Nann bread and spray with water/ olive oil mixture, then place in oven. Once lightly toasted, remove from oven and cut into triangle points.

To balance out the heartiness of this soup I serve it with orange segments. Preferably Clemetine’s when I can find them. Cool, sweet and refreshing against the savory warmth of the soup.

This soup freezes amazingly well. Pop some single serving sized portions in the freezer to take with you for lunch.

You’ll be the envy of the office. ;-P

Spring 2014*El Girasol * 17

A

Message of Hope,

Strength and Courage On November 2 nd, 2013, Marcy’s (Nu, Spring 2000) life was forever changed.

While alone in her apartment in Jersey, she suffered a debilitating stroke which left her weak on the left side of her body -face, arm & leg. The doctors could not determine the cause of the clotting which resulted in the stroke, but after a month and a half of extensive tests and examinations they found the answer.

On December 19th, Marcy was diagnosed with advanced stage ovarian cancer. Another day that will be forever embedded in our memories. Marcy will now have to undergo multiple rounds of chemotherapy in addition to her grueling physical therapy that is making her stronger everyday.

Through all this, Marcy has maintained a positive attitude & has always had a smile on her face as evidenced by all the pictures below.

She is in good spirits & remains eternally optimistic. Marcy has a long journey ahead of her but with her strength & perseverance, your love & support, & God’s healing hands, she will get through this!

Support Marcy, show your love: http://posthope.org/team-marcy 18 *El Girasol * Spring 2014

Spring 2014*El Girasol * 19

Know the Facts About

OVARIAN CANCER

Women have two ovaries that are located in the pelvis, one on each side of the uterus. The ovaries make female hormones and produce eggs. When cancer starts in either ovary, it is called ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer causes more deaths than any other cancer of the female reproductive system. But when ovarian cancer is found in its

early stages, treatment is most effective. Fallopian tube cancer (which starts in the fallopian tube) and primary peritoneal cancer (which starts in the lining that supports the abdomen) are very similar to ovarian cancer. Many of the signs and symptoms are the same, and doctors treat these cancers in the same way.

Symptoms of ovarian cancer Ovarian cancer may cause one or more of these signs and symptoms Vaginal bleeding or discharge from your vagina that is not normal for you Pain in the pelvic or abdominal area (the area below your stomach and between your hip bones)

Back pain Bloating, which is when the area below your stomach swells or feels full Feeling full quickly while eating A change in your bathroom habits, such as having to pass urine very badly or very often, constipation, or diarrhea

Pay attention to your body, and know what is normal for you. If you have vaginal bleeding that is not normal for you, see a doctor right away. Also see a doctor if you have any of the other signs for two weeks or longer and they are not normal for you. These symptoms may be caused by something other than cancer, but the only way to know is to see a doctor. The earlier ovarian cancer is found and treated, the more likely treatment will be effective.

Ovarian Cancer Statistics Each year, about 20,000 women in the United States get ovarian cancer. Among women in the United States, ovarian cancer is the eighth most common cancer and the fifth leading cause of cancer death, after lung and bronchus, breast, colorectal, and pancreatic cancers. Ovarian cancer causes more deaths than any other cancer of the female reproductive system, but it accounts for only about 3% of all cancers in women.

When ovarian cancer is found in its early stages, treatment is most effective.

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In 2010 (the most recent year numbers are available)— 19,959 women in the United States were diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

14,572 women in the United States died from ovarian cancer.

Incidence counts cover about 97% of the U.S. population; death counts cover about 100% of the U.S. population. Use caution when comparing incidence and death counts.

References: http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/ovarian/statistics/index.htm http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/ovarian/basic_info/index.htm

Booking inquiries: 914.837.6851 UniversalMCDJ@yahoo.com

The Whole Event

Let us transform your home into a breathtaking venue that will wow you and your guests!

Need music or food? We got you covered!

Spring 2014*El Girasol * 21

By Isabel Diaz, Vice President of the NST Advisory Cabinet

Twenty-five years ago, the Founders knew this was not going to be an easy road to travel. No one would have imagined the prosperity of what our organization has become; one of which is the creation of the National Step/ Stroll Teams! NST is also celebrating 15 years of success and accomplishments.

In just a short amount of time, NST’s reputation has surpassed any and all expectations. Our NST plays a major role in public relations and expansion efforts. From performing to community service & road tripping, our NST has gone above and beyond to represent our organizational beliefs through artistic expression.

22 *El Girasol * Spring 2014

In the summer of 1999, the National Board of Directors approached Soror Jessica “Remo” Morales about creating a step team that would help represent OPBSI at the first ever Latino Step Exhibition. After agreeing to take on this challenge, a group of six sisters began the process of establishing a team and Omega Phi Beta’s first step performance since the founders show. In the Fall of 2002, the National Step Team restructured to consist of a self-governing body: The NST Advisory Cabinet primarily for past members of any division who wanted to contribute and are responsible for overseeing all divisions; the Diva Card, a year round fundraiser; and most importantly the creation of major initiatives, such as SOUL.

In 2004, the NST saw a 50% growth in its Stroll Division, influencing the creation of a division name that would recognize the artistic creativity of both groups. This new division became known as the National Step/Stroll Division.

Stepping is a facet of the organization that exemplifies many attributes of the Omega Phi Beta Woman. As a way to celebrate the diversity of our people and our culture, the National Step Team, also known as, “The Soul Steppin’ Divas” decided to create routines that would portray the multiple cultures of Spanish, Portuguese, Indigenous and African that melt into one. Therefore, they created step routines that included soft, sensual flamenco movements merged with rich, historically tribal moves. It takes dedication, skill and heart; The Soul Steppin’ Divas have won almost every competition that they have entered and are often the favorite team in exhibition shows. We step to represent Omega Phi Beta and further solidify the bonds we have with each other.

The most recent victories for the Soul Steppin’ Divas include the 3-peat RISC Step Champions 2011-2013.

The National Stroll Team, also known as “The Dream Team”, has been a driving force in artistically expressing what this organization stands for. Today, strolling is no longer just party-walking. Strolling has become an integration of the experience of each of its members along with many other influences in culture and society.

Every routine created by The Dream Team is unique in its movements. As seen in many of their performances, there is an influence of modern, hip-hop, reggae and jazz music, as well as acrobatics. Having such a diverse and creative style is what makes this team stand out from the rest. The most recent victories for the Dream Team include 2012 & 2013 RISC Stroll Champions.

As the NST continues to grow, we continually acknowledge the importance of stepping and strolling. Both teams have come together to do community services such as performing at the Ray of Hope Walk as well as multiple exhibitions. It is more than just a performance; it is an artistic form of communication that takes a lot of hard work and dedication. We all pledge to continue to give our hearts and souls for the betterment of our community. The NST Advisory Cabinet would like to thank Remo and all of the sisters who have contributed to NST’s success and reputation. You all have our undying gratitude! Cheers to another 15 years of stepping, strolling and victory! Soleil!

Spring 2014*El Girasol * 23

New Orleans

BEYOND MARDI GRAS

By Yvette Lopez Colgan

Tennessee Williams once wrote “America has only three cities: New York, San Francisco, and New Orleans. Everywhere else is Cleveland.”

Having had the recent good fortune to finally round out the three cities on his list, I would have to agree with Mr. Williams ( no offense to Cleveland) that when it comes to American cities, New Orleans is definitely at the top of the list of ‘must sees’. From its vast history, to its general quirkiness and spookiness to its absolutely decadent food, it was a pleasure to spend four days livin’ it up in the ‘Big Easy’.

New Orleans is a surprisingly short trip from NYC (approximately three hours) and there are several carriers with direct flights leaving from JFK and Newark and many other major cities. The best times to visit New Orleans are on the slower seasons, as you will get better prices on your flight and hotel and even in the slow seasons there is still plenty of nightlife and activity. I recommend staying in the French Quarter so that everything is in walking distance; also, many of the boutique hotels are clean and comfortable and really have that New Orleans feel.

We took an early morning flight and got in just in time for breakfast. Just getting off the plane and hearing the people speak and seeing all the French words everywhere you really get the sense that you are in another country, not the US. After a 15 minute cab ride, our first stop was the famous Café 24 *El Girasol * Spring 2014

A plate of Beignets at Café du Monde

du Monde known worldwide for their delicious beignets and coffee (beignets are a New Orleans treat of fried dough and powdered sugar). The lines at Café du Monde can be long so expect a wait and they only serve beignets, coffee and hot chocolate so don’t go there expecting a full menu.

The beignets definitely lived up to the hype and after eating a plateful and all covered with powdered sugar we left to explore the French Quarter.

The Fifirst thing that strikes you on the streets of the French Quarter is the beautiful architecture, with all the intricate lattice work and the infamous balconies, where many a string of beads may be thrown at some half naked Mardi Gras revelers. But what most don’t know is that New Orleans was actually colonized by France AND Spain on and off for hundreds of years, so many of the buildings are in the Spanish design and there are only two French architectural buildings in all of New Orleans.

The next thing to intrigue the senses is the melodies humming from every street corner, especially on Royal Street where all day long jazz and Cajun bands play for tips as many stand around enjoying the free concerts. It is told that many of the jazz greats played on these same sidewalks and eventually were discovered and made famous.

The Native Americans who once lived in New Orleans warned the settlers that the area which was now New Orleans was cursed/sacred ground. It is said that New Orleans was built on top of sacred burial grounds and that there are thousands of bodies buried underneath the streets. That little tidbit and the fact that the city has one of the highest homicide and missing persons rate in the country makes for some very spooky history. We just couldn’t pass up the chance to taka a ‘ghost tour’ to learn more. We used French Quarter Phantoms but there are several options available. It was a spooky and fun way to spend two hours and you get a free drink from the bar to take along with you.

We also took a Segway tour through the French Quarter and through the Treme neighborhood (the oldest black neighborhood in the country). We booked it through City Segway Tours and it was a fun and interesting 2 hours. We learned a lot of great history while comfortably riding around on our Segways.

Don’t miss the Sunday drum circles in Congo square they have been led by the same families since the time of slavery.

Me on a Segway

As for the culinary experience in New Orleans it was honestly beyond compare.

From the gumbo to

the jambalaya to the crawfish etouffee it was all super delicious. I would personally recommend the charbroiled oysters at Drago and almost everything on the menu at Cochon. Of course you couldn’t visit New Orleans without trying a hurricane or a hand grenade (both alcoholic drinks, by the way) but BEWARE they tend to sneak up on you and leave a nasty buzz, hours later.

Lastly, we couldn’t visit New Orleans without learning more and paying homage to all those who died as a result of Hurricane Katrina. You would be hard pressed to find any evidence of this massive storm in the French Quarter since a lot of money and effort was put into revitalizing the area but many other areas will never recover. We visited the Louisiana State Museum in the Presbetyre building right in the French Quarter where they have an interactive exhibit which retells the story of hurricane Katrina from how the levees failed to what went wrong in the aftermath.

It was amazing to learn how unprepared the country was for this type of catastrophe and there were so many things untold in the media that surfaces in this exhibit. It was a very somber and moving exhibit. In stark contrast, upstairs in the same museum they have the history of Mardi Gras exhibit which had beautiful costumes on display and takes the visitor through the roots of the Mardi Gras tradition. It was a nice way to end our visit there.

New Orleans is a city of contrasts, from its dark history to its massive festivals to its voodoo traditions, it is anything but ordinary. I wouldn’t recommend bringing the kiddies along as it can get very loud and crowded especially in the evening but the ‘Big Easy’ is definitely a gem among US cities.

Spring 2014*El Girasol * 25

The 25th Year Turning Point

“When In Doubt, Choose Change”

By Maria Rosa

Did you ever feel stuck? As if you are living life going through the motions, not giving thought to where you are headed or why you do what you do?

Ever ask yourself “how did I get here?”

Think about the negative things you say and how you are really projecting. Think about how you shame others because of the shame that lies within you. Think about how you critique people who have the courage to follow their dreams. (Why is following our dreams even a matter of courage and risk rather than a matter of fulfilling our life’s purpose?)

Ever look at your life and say “Whoa! This is not where I thought I’d be at this age.” Wel,l that was me and many of my friends at age 25. Our twenty-fifth year was a year of change, of major decision making and transformation. It seemed like we were in crisis mode. We were a few years out of college and working but not quite where we thought we’d be.

Think about the things you might not be happy with. Don’t wait until you are at your worst to think of how to improve but take action right now. Sit down, make that plan and live by it. A day wasted is a day you won’t get back. Don’t let tragedy be that reminder; instead, value your own life enough that each day is precious to you. Why? Because your twenty-fifth year is the beginning.

What many of us came to realize was that our plans had been created by expectations that society had set for us. This plan that we were born with because we were women and our cultures expected us to meet social norms disguised as milestones. Yet, we refused to live by another’s idea of what our lives were supposed to be.

Our twenty-fifth year was when we took ownership of our lives, came to terms with who were and started to dream even bigger.

It was the year that we looked back at our past, dug deep and went through the painful processes of understanding it, so that we could understand ourselves better and heal old wounds-- those wounds that we didn’t even know we were hurting from. It was the year that we came face to face with the bad decisions we made and dealt with them. That year we also got angry at the injustices we had faced, not because it was the card we were dealt, but because our world permits them. How do you move forward from that?

Go back to your core. What is most important to you? Stop looking at lists about how to live your life and what behaviors you need to stop doing. No seriously, stop. Face yourself, your REAL self. Make yourself uncomfortable and accept those harsh realizations you’re still in denial about.

26 *El Girasol * Spring 2014

It is the beginning of an amazing discovery process. You have a better sense of who you are but also recognize the tremendous potential that lies within you.

That feeling changes you. It’s a breath of fresh air when you realize this is not where you thought you’d be in life but this is way better because you still have a choice and autonomy about the person you can become. How could you have underestimated your potential by this much?! And we can’t forget that, yes, there will always be challenges in life but this is the time to change those behaviors about yourself that will help you navigate them better.

“When in doubt, choose change” because what you’ve been doing hasn’t been working. You have to be insane to expect the same results without modifying a behavior. Make this quarter century mark a turning point. Make it a marker in your life of the season you took control and decided you would stop hanging out on the sidelines and join those that are actively living their life’s purpose. Choose change.

A l p h a B e ta A lu m n a e C h a p t e r I n v i t e s y o u to

SAVE THE DATE We invite all Beta Mommies, Aunties, Godmommies to the

Annual Eggstravaganza Event Sunday, April 6, 2014 at Noon There will be many activities for our little ones For details and additional info contact Alphabeta@omegaphibeta.org

Alpha Beta Chapter of Omega Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated

20 TH ANNIVERSARY REUNION

JULY 25-27 2014

Spring 2014*El Girasol * 27

Sunshine Corner Desiree Henry

Almazi Winters like the one we’ve had can be tough on everyone. Unless you love winter sporting activities, the cold forces many of us to stay indoors. It can be a little depressing to just stay indoors and not feel the warmth of the sun.

With no vacation travel in sight and tired of feeling down from the winter, I decided I had to fifind a way to inject some warmth into my daily life.

So a few weeks ago, I saw a photo on Instagram that said...

Surround yourself only with people who are going to lift you higher.

OPRAH WINFREY All great changes are preceded by chaos.

UNKNOWN An arrow can only be shot by pulling it backward. When life is dragging you back with difficulties, it means it’s going to launch you into something great.

So just focus, and keep aiming.

UNKNOWN I always did something I was a little not ready to do. I think that’s how you grow.

When there’s that moment of ‘Wow, I’m not really sure I can do this,’ and you push through those moments, that’s when you have a breakthrough.

MARISSA MAYER When you take risks you learn that there will be times when you succeed and there will be times when you fail, and both are equally important.

ELLEN DEGENERES And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.

ANAIS NIN At any given moment you have the power to say this is not how the story is going to end.

UNKNOWN If you have good thoughts they will shine out of your face like sunbeams and you will always look lovely.

ROALD DAHL Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.

RALPH WALDO EMERSON 28 *El Girasol * Spring 2014

“Can you be happy for 100 days in a row?”

There is no “rule” that says I have to post a photo every day but it has made me do one thing consistently...focus on being happy. I can’t say its a magic switch and all that is bad is now suddenly good. But it is a mindset I’ve challenged myself to maintain. There will always be something to upset me but I have to find better ways to deal with the issue and move on.

As a way to keep the feeling going throughout the day, I told myself (and some co-workers) that I was going to play the “Happy” song by Pharrell every afternoon at 3pm. Since 3pm is when most people start to get into the afternoon lull, I thought this would be a great pick me up.

What started out as a little joke, has actually turned into a little afternoon laughter with my colleagues. Its nice to know that sometimes all it takes is a small gesture to inject a little happiness into people’s lives.

Professionally, I’ve been at a cross roads for quite some time and the decision is do I stay doing something I am good at but do not love or do I risk it all and try something new?

Do I take the road less traveled by?

I recently have been given an opportunity to pursue my passions and make a big change in both my life and career. It’s a scary but very exciting place to be in. For a long time I have been asking for something like this to happen and with the law of attraction in my favor, I’ve can finally make a decision with more options at hand. We all wait for the moments were we can make a difference either in our lives or the lives of others. I consider myself lucky to have even have a choice.

This year, we should focus on being happier people, living happier lives and inspiring others to do the same

.

As small as it may be, this #100daysofhappy has been a fun experience to say the least. In order to start living a happier life, I have to find the happiness in everyday. Spread the love, spread the laughter and spread the happiness. Watch how much better you will feel when you focus on smiling in spite of what life throws your way. Imagine what focusing on being happy for the next 100 days could look like for you...

Soleil

MARKETING. BRANDING. COMMERICAL. DESIGN.

WWW.MOYACREATIVE.COM CONTACT: DESIREE HENRY

DESIREE@MOYACREATIVE.COM (646) 335-2830 Spring 2014*El Girasol * 29

Beta Mommies Welcome our

Beta babies and congratulations to our expecting Mommies !!

JACKELINE CAMILO (Beta, Spring 2003) and husband Hector Camilo gave birth to their thurd child, Logan Nicholas Camilo on October 28, 2013

new

JULISSA MARTINEZ DELGADO (Alpha, Spring 2002) and her husband, Jose, welcomed their second child, Elias Delgado, on December 24, 2013

MONICA ESTRADA GEORGES (Alpha, Spring 1998) welcomed her third child, Josiah Clifford Georges, on December 30, 2013

30 *El Girasol * Spring 2014

MARIANA REINOSA BURGOS (Alpha, Fall 1999) and her husband, Edis, welcomed their first child, Benjamin Luke Burgos on February 10, 2014

VANESSA SANTIAGO (Lambda, Fall 1999) welcomed her second daughter in December 2013

professional and personal highlights Congratulations to Liza Gutierrez (Alpha Beta/Spring 2013) on her recent engagment to Joel Fana

Congratulations to Jessica Toro (Xi, Spring 2002)!

Jessica’s company, Ayari Brides won the Best of Weddings Awards by the Knot for the second consecutive year, and wedding wire’s couples choice award for a third year (formerly called the Bride’s Choice Award both for 2014.

Congratulations to Betty Diaz (Zeta, Spring 1998)!

Betty Diaz, a Research Manager for Content Distribution at NBCUniversal and a member of all of the Employee Resource Groups. Click below to hear from Betty on why she loves working at NBCUniversal, and how diversity helps the business: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XNIEH3L6sJ4

Spring 2014*El Girasol * 31

32 *El Girasol * Spring 2014

Important Anti-Violence Resources

National Hotlines and Organizations

V-Day

A Global Movement to End Violence against Women and Girls www.VDay.org

Hotline Phone Numbers Domestic Violence Hotline 800-621-HOPE (4673)

Crime Victims Hotline 866-689-HELP (4357)

Rape & Sexual Assault Hotline 212-227-3000

U.S. National Domestic Violence Hotline

Boston

www.c2home.org http:,,feminist.org www.mahomless.org

Los Angeles

www.agapefdnadv.org http:,,dvcouncil.lacounty.gov

Los Angeles County Hotline (24 HOUR)

(800) 978-3600

New York City New York City’s 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline (800) 621–HOPE (4673)

1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224 www.nnedv.org

Sanctuary for Families

Washington, DC

• • • •

Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nation’s largest anti-sexual assault organization.

Among its programs, RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1.800.656.HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainn.org . This nationwide partnership of more than 1,100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free, confidential services, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. These hotlines have helped over 1.3 million people since RAINN’s founding in 1994.

(212) 349–6009 •

•

Press 0 for general information and for information about shelter Press 1 for Clinical Program Press 2 for Legal Center Press 3 for Children’s Program Press 8 if office is closed and on weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday, and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays.

Press 9 for Spanish

MADRE 121 West 27th Street, # 301 New York, NY 10001 USA

(212) 627-0444 Fax: (212) 675-3704 Volunteers volunteers@madre.org

http:,,nyscadv.org,directory.htm Additional Help in your area: www.thehotline.org

Florida Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence www.fcadv.org,centers Florida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119

Harbor House of Central Florida If you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse, PLEASE CALL US at 407-886-2856.

Administration Office: P.O. Box 680748 Orlando, FL 32868 admin@harborhousefl.com GET HELP: 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL) 407-886-2244 (main office) Safehouse of Seminole 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407)-330-3933 (TTY,TDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free

Chicago 1-877-To-END-DV Domestic Violence Agencies by City www.dhs.state.il.us

Safe Horizon

www.safehorizon.org 1-800-656-HOPE Washington DC www.dccadv.org www.houseofruth.org

NY State Resources

In New York State:

New York State’s 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 942-6906 (English) (800) 942-6908 (Spanish)

If you know of any resources in your local city, please share it with the membership.

Email: ElGirasol@OmegaPhiBeta.org

Spring 2014*El Girasol * 33

B eta “Yellow” Pages C reative

and

B e au t y S e rv ic es

Jessica Ayari Toro Ayari Make Overs www.AyariMakeOvers.com www.TheGlossyParty.com Karla Ayala-Quervalu Karla Samantha Photography www.KarlaSamantha.com Elsa Batista-Yzaguirre Stoles By Elsa StolesbyElsa@Yahoo.com Stephanie Camacho & Rebecca Slivka The Sunflower Collection www.thesunflowercollection.com www.facebook.com/thesunflowercollections Elizabeth Cano Sweet Craft Cakes http://www.sweetcraftcakes.com

Erica Diaz/ Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica Medina Your Best Event www.YourBestEvent.com www.facebook.com/YourBestEventInc Erica@YourBestEvent.com

F o o d S e rv i ce s Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytime@gmail.com (917) 457-8650

Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Marketing/Branding www.MOYACreative.com

Selina Hernandez My Sister’s Creations www.mysisterscreations.com mysisterscreations@yahoo.com (917) 348-8556

Lydia Jimenez Stampin’ with Lydia www.stampinwithlydia.blogspot.com

Ivy Roman

IvySweetsNYC IvySweetsNYC@gmail.com

C l o th i n g

H e a l th , H o m e S ervi ce s

Claudia M. Echeverri Miletic Jason & Juliana, LLC http://www.jasonandjuliana.com

Maria Jaramillo Birth Doula nediva.89@gmail.com Elbanery Lora Diana’s Cleaning Services diana_cleaningservices@hotmail.com (347) 564-6491

P ro f essi o na l S ervi ce s Doris Duran Corporan, M.A., M.S.Ed, Mental Health Counselor Help to Adjust Counseling & Anger Management (516) 445-0143 Jocelyn Tejada The Society of Professional Women of Color http://spwc.org/

The Beta Yellow Pages is a free service designated to highlight businesses that are operated by OPBSI Sisters.

If you would like to list your business information, please submit it to ElGirasol@OmegaPhiBeta.org

34 *El Girasol * Spring 2014

Omega Phi Beta Sorority, inc.

Chapters and Colonies

Collegiate Chapters Alpha Chapter University at Albany, SUNY Est. 1989

Xi Chapter Syracuse University & LeMoyne College Est. 1999

Beta Chapter SUNY New Paltz & Marist College Est. 1991

Omicron Chapter Duke University Est. 2000

Gamma Chapter Union College Est. 1991 Delta Chapter Binghamton University, SUNY Est. 1992 Epsilon Chapter Long Island University, C.W. Post Est. 1993

Pi Chapter Boston, MA Est. 2002 Rho Chapter Michigan State University Est. 2002 Sigma Chapter Plattsburgh University, SUNY Est. 2001 Tau Chapter Utica College & Hamilton College Est. 2003

Eta Chapter College at Brockport, University of Rochester & Rochester Institute of Technology Est. 1994

Upsilon Chapter Rutgers University, New Brunswick Est. 2003

Iota Chapter University of Virginia Est. 1998 Kappa Chapter Hofstra University Est. 1998 Lambda Chapter Brooklyn College and Manhattan Metro Est. 1998 Mu Chapter University of Buffalo, Buffalo State College & D’Youville College Est. 1999 Nu Chapter Cornell University Est. 1999

Collective at Pace University Est. 2011

Beta Epsilon Chapter SUNY Old Westbury Est. 2008

Zeta Chapter SUNY, Oswego Est. 1993

Theta Chapter Stony Brook University Est. 1998

Collective at Ramapo College Est. 2010

Beta Delta Chapter Pace University, Pleasantville Campus Est. 2008

Collective at Columbia University Est. 2011

Beta Zeta Chapter Florida State University Est. 2010

Collective at Purdue University Est. 2011

Alumnae Chapters

Beta Eta Chapter University of South Florida Est. 2010

Alpha Beta Chapter New York City Alumnae Chapter Est. 1994

Beta Theta Chapter SUNY Cortland Est. 2009 Beta Iota Chapter Northeastern Illinois University Est. 2010

Alpha Gamma Chapter Washington D.C. Alumnae Chapter Est. 2004

Beta Kappa Chapter University of New Haven Est. 2010

Alpha Delta Chapter Rochester Alumnae Chapter Est. 2004

Phi Chapter University of Southern California Est. 2003

Beta Lambda Chapter University of North Carolina Chapel Hill Est. 2011

Alpha Epsilon Chapter Boston Alumnae Chapter Est. 2007

Chi Chapter Seton Hall University Est. 2003

Beta Mu Chapter University of California Berkley Est. 2011

Psi Chapter DePauw University Est. 2006

Beta Nu Chapter Johnson & Wales University Est. 2012

Beta Alpha Chapter St. John’s University Est. 2002 Beta Beta Chapter University of Illinois, UrbanaChampaign Est. 2006 Beta Gamma Chapter New York University Est. 2007

Alpha Zeta Chapter New Jersey Alumnae Chapter Est. 2007 Alpha Eta Chapter Buffalo Alumnae Chapter Est. 2007 Alpha Theta Chapter Florida Alumnae Chapter Est. 2007

COLLECTIVES Collective at University of Maryland, Baltimore County Est. 2003

Los Angeles Alumnae Collective Est. 2011

Collective at Rhode Island College Est. 2003

Chicago Alumnae Collective Est. 2012 Alpha Alpha Chapter Honorary Sisters

Collective at Charleston Southern University Est. 2008

Omega Chapter Eternal Sisters

Collective at St. Thomas Aquinas Est. 2010

Est. 1989

www .O mega P hi B eta . org

Spring 2014*El Girasol * 35