Colonization: • • An Inside Look by Kathy Godwin National Vice President for Communication and Recognition Tau Beta Sigma
W
hen I was asked to serve as colony advisor for the Tau Beta Sigma Colony at the University of Louisville, I was thrilled. The excitement of being responsible for guiding a new colony and coordinating the activities with several players (sponsor, advising chapter, district members, National Council, National Headquarters) was quite overwhelming. I thought I’d take an opportunity to share with all of you what my experiences and perspectives have been serving as the Colony Advisor. I’ve had an opportunity to see the beginnings of a chapter. I’ve often wondered how exciting it must have been to take those first steps, and here I meet those people with the dedication and determination to do just that. As the process has moved forward, I’ve been able to watch the colony members as they grow as leaders. They go through the same experiences that every chapter does as far as ups and downs. They’re learning how to work together and build communication skills. The unique aspect is that they are candidates running a chapter. As candidates enter a chapter, they bring their skills, leadership, and ideas. They are qualified when they enter to be leaders, but active members are available to assist, encourage, and empower them as they progress. In turn, the active members learn from the candidates. Although to some it may seem that the colonists are at a disadvantage not having the guidance on the same campus, this is not the case. In reality, it allows for more positive experiences not only for the colony, but also for everyone else involved in the process. Dr. Greg Byrne serves as the sponsor to the colony. Prior to his tenure at Louisville, he worked at Auburn University with both Tau Beta Sigma and Kappa Kappa Psi. His positive experience with them encouraged him to start the organizations on the new campus. He has been helpful and enthusiastic throughout the process and would truly like the members to succeed. His energy proved to be a valuable asset and has continued to drive the colony. In addition to the support of Dr. Byrne, the Tau Beta Sigma Colony has the assistance of Rho Chapter at Indiana
18—The PODIUM, Fall 2000
University, which serves as their Advising Chapter. Their excitement has been constant through the process and grows stronger with each meeting between the two groups. Rho has been available to answer questions and guide the colony just as actives guide membership candidates and teach them how the sorority works from within their chapter. The colonization process has also been instructive for the members of Rho, who have had an opportunity to hear ideas about the meaning of sisterhood from a different perspective. I’ve also observed the growth internally as the leadership within the chapter has changed during the process. The district is thrilled about having a new chapter, and has provided much needed support. It has been some time since the district had a colony, so the process of colonization has allowed the district to re-evaluate the roles of officers and others involved in the process. The district leaders have helped to coordinate writing letters of support to the colony and have been cheerleaders for both Rho and me. I was asked early in the process if I was nervous about the responsibilities of being Colony Advisor, namely, to help ensure the future of Tau Beta Sigma and allow these colony members, along with future members, to have the same opportunities to learn and grow in the Sorority as you and I have had. Initially, this seemed like quite a challenge! However, any anxiety I might have had was quickly allayed as I looked around to see all my sisters and brothers standing with me. It has not troubled me again, because the enthusiasm of the colonization process is so contagious.
Colonization Handbook Now On-line! Want to start a colony? Want to learn more about the process? The latest edition of the ΚΚΨ/ΤΒΣ Colonization Handbook, newly revised and expanded, has the answers to your questions. Download your copy today from the national web site (www.kkytbs.org) or call the National Headquarters at 1-800-543-6505 for a copy.
