Spring 2012
Connections:
CRITICAL Theta Nu Xi & the NMGC By Jennis Watson Guest Writer
15 Questions By Carley Wyche Staff Writer
Since the National Founders established Theta Nu Xi Multicultural Sorority, Inc. on April 11, 1997 this organization has crossed 15 years of amazing women; women with hearts filled with the love of sisterhood and of multiculturalism. Below are the responses of 15 of those women who were each asked 15 questions about their experiences in Theta Nu Xi. Through their responses you can see the growth of this organization over the last 15 years from seven members to over a thousand; from one state to 5 regions across the country. But most importantly you can see that whether a sister lives in Florida, Indiana, Texas or New York, her love for this Sorority is the same. Thank you to all the women who took time out of their busy lives to reflect on the meaning and growth of this organization. Happy 15th Anniversary, Theta Nu Xi! Continued on Page 12
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Learn more about these ONEderful sisters inside!
Benefits of an Umbrella Council
Joining the NMGC brings with it a great many advantages to Theta Nu Xi, but the Sorority will enjoy three immediate benefits in particular. First, from a most pragmatic perspective, Theta Nu Xi’s membership in a governing council opens doors to new expansions and, in fact, preserves the legacy of existing chapters. In the absence of governing council
Image courtesy of the National Multicultural Greek Council
15 Years, 15 Sisters,
When the news hit in December of last year that Theta Nu Xi Multicultural Sorority, Inc. (Theta Nu Xi) had joined the National Multicultural Greek Council (NMGC), the wave of excitement that swept the membership left in its wake curiosity about the implications of this newly forged alliance. Why was it important to join an umbrella council? What brought Theta Nu Xi to this point?
Continued on Page 19
What’s In This Edition? Pay it Forward... Summer Health Tips... Rho Chapter Spotlight... Chapter Highlights...
2 FROM THE PRESIDENT Dear Sisters,
Staff Editor-In-Chief
Jamie Dawson
Senior Editors
Elizabeth Edwards Dara Monasch Senior Designer
Jamie Dawson Copy Editors
Caitlin Bassett Strawbry Jiles
Staff Writers
Tanya Arditi Rubi Morgan Carley Wyche
Table of Contents
Cover Features.................................... 1 “15 Years, 15 Sisters, 15 Questions” “Critical Connections: Theta Nu Xi & the NMGC”
It’s a great pleasure to write to you in this issue of ONEVision that honors our 15th anniversary. Congratulations on 15 years to all of you! The very foundations, the core of our sisterhood, are the amazing women who are members of this organization. Your hard work and perseverance against the toughest odds have led to this occasion. We don’t say these words often enough, but on our 15th year, I want to say “thank you.” You deserve a round of applause for the organization that you’ve helped to build. Of course, I can’t help but be nostalgic about the importance this day in our history. As I write this message, I realize that I became a member of Theta Nu Xi exactly 13 years ago. I remember the first member I met (Cori Ahrens, Spring 1998, Alpha), the first founder I met (Janelle Poe—who would become my Grandbig), and the informal interest meeting I attended with only one other interested woman. When we met so many years ago, I had no idea that this other interest would Cianti (second from top right) with her line become my line sister and future Theta sisters (Alpha Chapter, Spring 1999). Nu Xi President—Jerri Kallam (Spring 1999, Alpha). Today, our Aspirants sit in the same college classrooms and listen to us talk about our Sorority. In 15 years, I wonder what stories they’ll tell about the women they’ve met and that have become their sisters. But, the greatest aspect of sisterhood is when it becomes more than that. If we are lucky, the experiences that bind us as members of this Sorority become the life experiences that make us a family. I’m happy to have Theta Nu Xi family as well. I’d be remiss not to mention my newest family member, Amanda Pohl (Spring 2001, Eta), who has helped to make a new city a home. This is sisterhood at its finest. In the Founders Week events that you’ve celebrated this spring, I hope you took some time to appreciate your Theta Nu Xi family. It’s hard to build a Sorority, to maintain it, expand it, protect it, revolutionize it and at the same time take care of yourself and each other. Sometimes, despite our best efforts, we become engrossed in performing intake and upholding rules, and we forget the very core of what started this organization—sisterhood. It’s the foundation. It’s what we return to when times are tough and we don’t know which way to turn. It’s what we celebrate on this 15th anniversary year. Happy anniversary to Theta Nu Xi. Happy anniversary to true sisterhood.
From the President............................. 2 Featured Articles “La Quinceañera”..................................... 3 “The Little Chapter That Could”................ 6 “Change the World, Change Yourself”... 8 “Get Healthy for Summer, For Life”......... 10 Convention 2012................................. 18 ONE Love, Chapter Highlights............................... 20
Letters to The Editor
We welcome your feedback regarding the newsletter or topics relating to the organization. Submissions may be edited for length, clarity or style. Send all letters to director.communications@thetanuxi.org. Please include full name, season, year and chapter of initiation.
Cianti Stewart-Reid
National President #2 Steel Magnolia Spring 1999 Xi Iota by way of the Alpha Chapter
Are you ready for Detroit? Convention Information, Page 18
FEATURED ARTICLE 3
By Tanya Arditi Staff Writer
Images courtesy of Google Images.
La Quinceañera
She sat up on her bed bursting with anticipation. She flung the Carolina Blue sheets and Lavender comforter off to one side and threw her legs out on the side of the bed. She had been waiting for this day every day for the past week. April 11, her birthday.
In many ways, she is your typical teenager. She’s 15 and she knows it all. She’s 15 and she can conquer the world. She’s 15 and she’s still a baby. She’s 15 and she has her whole life ahead of her, and yet she’s already gone through so much. She has just recently gone through a growth spurt and she is dealing with the aches that follow. She has grown taller and her reach has extended, and she sometimes struggles with communicating effectively between her brains, her heart, and her limbs.
Our beloved Theta Nu Xi Multicultural Sorority, Incorporated is celebrating her 15th anniversary this year, and Sisters across the organization can’t say enough when they reflect back to where it all began, where we are today, and where we’re going. Between expansion and maintenance of new chapters, as well as undertaking the regionalization project that
has required numerous Sisters to push themselves far out of their comfort zones to conquer unchartered territory, it is simply an understatement to say that Theta Nu Xi has come a long way. As Soror Shauma Brown puts it, “we are regionalized, a member of a national council, we have over 1,000 members and cross a consistent 100+ members annually, we have a functioning National Board and Graduate, Alumnae and Professional program, an internal governing body, our quarterly ONE Vision newsletter, an annual convention with at least 150 members in attendance, and up-to-date national and chapter websites!” Soror Cianti Stewart-Reid agrees: “It’s taken a lot of hard work by very dedicated women to make it to 15 years. We should all be very proud of our part in making Theta Nu Xi a success. As with anything new, it would have been very easy to stop or give up when things got hard. We should be proud of our perseverance.”
Continued Next Page
4 FEATURED ARTICLE Soror Miriam Musco feels it’s exciting to see that “in only 15 years, Theta Nu Xi has gone from seven women to over 1,000 sisters at campuses all over the country, and that we’ve made a positive impact in our immediate communities and nationally, through our partnerships with NCCJ and now Girls For a Change. I’m proud to be a part of Theta Nu Xi’s unique heritage, and I can’t wait to see what the next 15 years brings!” Founder Katherine Ellen Stanley shares Soror Musco’s feelings and says she Alpha Chapter with Beta and Xi Beta continues “to be amazed by our growth and exponential expansion. I remember individually connecting with the other Founders and internally, being amazed and surprised that there were other women out there looking for something Phi Chapter Alpha Zeta Chapter similar in a sisterhood. Over the past 15 years, I continue to be amazed at how our sorority’s mission and purpose just “fit” for so many women and how without it, those individuals would have missed fulfilling their dream of belonging to a multicultural sisterhood.”
Special days like these always got Theta Nu Xi thinking and reflecting about her beginnings, about that fateful day that she came into the world and how neither her family nor the world would ever be the same again. She was always meant to be special, above-average, ground-breaking, impactful, stronger, more dedicated, more passionate than others like her. As a matter of fact, she was always absolutely unique, because she was the only ONE.
a look back at our 15th Year
“I’d say that when I joined in 1999, I don’t think I had any real idea where we would be in 15 years,” says Soror Stewart-Reid. “I was hopeful for an organization that would be comparable to the long term fraternity that my parents had in their NPHC organizations.” Soror Jennis Watson feels strongly that there are things that we did right as an organization early on that have significantly contributed to our success. “From our earliest years, Theta Nu Xi has attracted intelligent, well-educated women through whose collective wisdom we have both consistently Xi Iota Chapter achieved our goals and The other branch of proactively addressed issues Theta Nu Xi’s family was before they became problems. Diversity. On this side, her Additionally, our purpose as parent was loving, embracing, an organization is clear and ever-changing, and yet always it elicits action. Members of a little cautious when making Theta Nu Xi have held fast to new acquaintances. Diversity our mission and tenets in an fell in love with Social exceptional way, leading to Upsilon Chapter Justice because of each of the development of universal their relationships with qualities that are apparent in Multiculturalism. each member of the Sorority.” Multiculturalism, said Social Justice often, always She was born at a celebrates the beauty of crucial time in a crucial place: Diversity. April 11, 1997 in North Carolina, Chapel Hill. Her As Soror Monica parent was the deeply Copeland says, “Theta Nu Xi Omicron Chapter with Xi Nu loving yet strict and Multicultural Sorority Inc. was responsible Social Justice. founded on a very powerful Whenever she reminisced on this, Theta Nu Xi always felt some mission statement that has stood the test of time. As we celebrate kind of way; tense because of all the hurdles she had always the past 15 years, may we take time to reflect on all the happy been told her she’d have to overcome to fulfill her mission of memories we’ve shared and the challenges we’ve overcome. promoting leadership, multiculturalism, and self-improvement, May we also constantly strive toward self-improvement while through academic excellence, involvement in and service to the giving the best of ourselves to our Sisters and the world.” campus and community, and being a living example of sisterhood across races, cultures, religions, backgrounds and lifestyles. And Theta Nu Xi never had any real idea of where she would yet, Theta Nu Xi always felt hopeful that the future could be a be 15 years into her life, but on this day she felt extremely proud better, brighter place. of herself and all her accomplishments. In only 15 years of
FEATURED ARTICLE 5 existence, Theta Nu Xi had already spread her wings so wide she felt like the whole world was her playground and like there were more than 1,000 parts of her effecting positive and immediate impact in her own community and in communities throughout the country. She is truly an exceptional 15 year old.
choice. I expect nothing less than longevity from our rare Sisterhood.” She may be only 15 but she is already an educator, a doctor, a mother, a sister, a wife, an engineer, a Peace Corps volunteer, a beauty queen, a scientist, a banker, a lawyer, and maybe someday a President. She knows that as long as she relies confidently on her values and passion, she can march on fearlessly into the next 15, 50, and 150 years ahead of her. She is, after all, Theta Nu Xi Multicultural Sorority, Incorporated.
“I continue to be inspired and encouraged by the talents, passion and purpose of the women of Theta Nu Xi,” says Founder Stanley. “When I meet new Sisters and they share how Theta Nu Xi has changed their life or how it was exactly the Sisterhood they were searching for, I humbly say thank you and welcome! But what they don’t always hear is that I know exactly how they feel because I had the same Alpha LAmbda Chapter feeling in 1997. This Alpha Beta organization has changed my Chapter life and was exactly the Sisterhood I was searching for.”
a look back at our 15th Year
In 15 years, Theta Nu Xi has learned that despite her mishaps, she remains true, Beta Chapter concrete, and unrelenting as the day she was born, the day she began this journey when she had no way of peering into what the future held for her. She knows that she must remain committed to the ideals set up by Social Justice and Diversity, which can only be achieved by promoting Alpha Alpha multiculturalism, sisterhood, Nu Chapter Chapter leadership, and service within Xi Alpha and Xi Xi Chapters herself and among her peers. She knows she must constantly strive for self-improvement and to give the best of herself to others as well as herself. Soror Camille Bowens feels very strongly about this. “In 15 years, we have lived on a dream of accessible multiculturalism and sisterhood, made a life out of that dream and realized that along with dreams and the positive accomplishments they yield, come disappointments and unfulfilled expectations. In 15 years, we have learned that the premise of ONE never changes with us. It is forever. We should honor our 15th anniversary by remembering. We can remember why and when Theta Nu Xi was founded but we must remember why we are here and why we chose this journey. Every Soror can determine what 15 years means to her by assessing her own
Soror Cianti StewartReid: “We now have to turn our attention to the next 15 years. Our future is bright. I’m sure that we will have a strong Sisterhood that continues to embrace our members’ strengths and helps them grow into outstanding women who are contributors to their communities. We have so much left to do and to accomplish. We need every member working to help achieve our goals.” But the world hasn’t seen anything yet. “I have no doubt that our organization will continue to reach beyond any of the Founder’s original and ever evolving dreams,” says Founder Stanley. “These first 15 years have been our “warm-up”, our introduction within the history of sororities. Our reach and impact are limitless!”
Writer’s note: The story that’s interwoven was inspired by the quotes provided by numerous Sisters. Thank you to: National Founder Katherine Stanley, National President Cianti Stewart-Reid, National VP for Intake and Expansion Shauma Brown, National VP for Undergraduate Affairs Denaa Griffin, National VP for GAP Affairs Gina Aleman, Mid-Atlantic Regional Director Camille Bowens, Northeast Regional Director Jennis Watson, Southeast Regional Director Natrina Lawson, National Director for Philanthropy & Fundraising Miriam Musco, former National Administrator Monica Copeland, and former National Director of GAP Affairs Bahareh Moradi.
6 FEATURED ARTICLE The
LITTLE CHAPTER that COULD
By Jennis Watson Guest Writer Work began in 2002 to establish a chapter that would become known for its mold-breaking resilience. That year, Soror Kristin Boydston discovered Theta Nu Xi and began to build a coalition of like-minded women who sought a multicultural sisterhood. Soror Boydston found true friendship, as well as competent leaders and committed activists, in Sorors Julie Villegas, Kristen Lundy, Ashley Kramer, and Christina Liciaga. Together, these five women left a lasting legacy that has resulted in the initiation of more than twenty-five women over the course of nine years. On April 27th, 2003, the Rho Chapter was founded. While the founding members all attended Muhlenberg
College, the Chapter became the first city-wide entity in the Sorority’s history when the National Board realized a traditional chapter was not an option at the time. Undeniably, the Rho Chapter has faced tremendous obstacles. Operating as a city-wide organization, with no home base, Soror Nikki DeMaio remembers that the Rho Chapter was “never approved to formally recruit on Muhlenberg’s campus but also could not get approval to recruit from neighboring colleges in the Lehigh Valley.” Chapter members thus relied on innovative means and personal relationships to increase membership. Among the Chapter’s many accomplishments, one stands out in its expression of the Sorority’s mission. When Muhlenberg College announced plans to create a Multicultural Center, Above:
Sisters at Charter Recognition Ceremony Left, Top:
Rho Founders at their Spring 2003 Emergence Bottom Left: Sorors
Valena David, Rosalie Aponte and Nikki DeMaio Bottom Right: Spring
2011 Graduation
which would benefit the college and community, the Rho Chapter took notice. A steering committee of administrators, professors, and students was formed to lay out the Center’s purpose, and Soror Rosalie Aponte was selected to participate. As a member of the Rho Chapter, Soror Aponte foresaw the value of forming a connection with the Center, and she was instrumental in ensuring that the Chapter would be named in the Center’s charter. The Chapter launched a fundraiser, asking for support from the national body of Theta Nu Xi in order to demonstrate a firm commitment to the future of the Center. Unfortunately, when the Center’s charter went to final review, the Rho Chapter was excluded due to the potential complications of extending recognition, in any form, to an off-campus Greek organization. Undeterred, the women of the Rho Chapter pressed forward in their support of the Multicultural Center and, when a new Director of Multicultural Life was appointed in 2008, everything changed. Recognizing the natural link between the Multicultural Center and a multicultural sorority, the Director “welcomed a more collaborative relationship,” recalls Soror Aponte. The Multicultural Center quickly became Rho Chapter’s base of operations, a connection that has ensured that the Center would remain a vital community space. Over the course of its history, members and alumnae of the Rho Chapter have strived to establish a good reputation on campus and good relations with the administration. Their efforts
FEATURED ARTICLE 7 Top Left: Founders Kristen
Lundy, Ashley Kramer & Christina Liciaga in 2012 Top Right: Fall 2011
Emergence
Right, Bottom: Sisterly
bonding
Below: Sisters at Charter
Recognition Ceremony
came to fruition in February 2010, when the National Board was informed by Muhlenberg College that Theta Nu Xi had been selected as a finalist in a campus-wide process to accept a new Greek organization. Soror Wendy Hartmann remembers “being told over and over that Muhlenberg wasn’t expanding Greek Life, and we just had to wait…I think my favorite day was receiving an email from Chris [Jachimowicz] that a Greek Life Committee selected Theta Nu Xi from a list of organizations that might potentially be allowed to expand at Muhlenberg…I remember thinking, ‘This is it. This is the start of what we’ve been waiting all this time for.’” The Chapter spent the next two years working toward full recognition and, on February 17, 2012, for the first time in its history, the Chapter had a home. In a letter from Chris Jachimowicz, Director of Student Leadership Programs, the Chapter was cited for its perseverance and informed that the chartering review
committee was “thoroughly impressed” by the Chapter’s chartering petition. In the days since the announcement of formal recognition by Muhlenberg College, members of the Rho Chapter have continued to push forward with the same work ethic that made them who they are today. According to Sorors Anvi Patel and Talia Ramo, the new challenge is “making ourselves visible on campus…and so far we’ve
gotten positive feedback overall.” The Rho Chapter, lovingly referred to by older members as “The Little Chapter That Could,” has finally reaped its long overdue reward. And, if its history is any indication of its future, the Rho Chapter will become the defining model for what a chapter of Theta Nu Xi should be. Visit the Rho Chapter online at http://thetanuxirho.webs.com.
8 FEATURED ARTICLE
CHANGE the World...
By Rubi Morgan Staff Writer If you open the door for someone walking in, do you expect them to buy you a coffee the next day? Is the price for one act of kindness another similar act? Imagine a life where no one aided anyone unless they also benefited from it, a life where before you asked anyone for anything (e.g. Could I borrow a pen?) you had to consciously think about what you had to trade for it. This is exactly the kind of lifestyle Pay It Forward is trying to fight.
>> What is Pay It Forward? Founded by Charley Johnson (pictured at right) and Blake Beattie, Pay It Forward is an organization seeking to change the world through random acts of
YOURSELF
kindness. Members of this organization believe that you never know how badly a person’s day might be going, or how much they might be struggling in their life. If one considerate act from you could change their entire mood, wouldn’t you do it?
>> How does Pay It Forward work?
It starts with a bracelet specially made by the Pay It Forward foundation. You wear the bracelets daily as a constant reminder to do good deeds for others. When you help someone out, leave the bracelet for them so they know
Image courtesy of Google Images.
CHANGE
why you did it. Hopefully from there, they will help out another stranger and leave the same bracelet for them to find. “You don’t wear the bracelet just to wear it,” says Johnson. “You wear it to get rid of it.” In this way, bracelets travel from person to person, initiating acts of kindness all over the world. The organization sends out hundreds of thousands of Pay It Forward bracelets every year to donators across the world. People of all ages are participating in this global concept, making the
FEATURED ARTICLE 9 >> What do people have to say about it?
Soror Nicole Zavodny is a promoter of the Pay It Forward movement. Learning about it from another sister, Nicole has been a fan ever since and has taken the time to help others whenever she could: “I really liked the concept of going out of my way to do something for someone without any kind of reward or payment.” As the organization grows stronger every year, recipients of kind acts are coming out to speak as well. Undergraduate Student Advocate, Lauren Spriggs, relates a time where she was helped out by a Pay It Forward advocate: “I didn’t even know what Pay It Forward was at the time. One day, I was carrying a lot of groceries, too many actually. I dropped one small thing, bent to pick it up, and then the whole mess just came tumbling down! Before I knew it, there was some guy putting it all back in my bags for me. He didn’t
leave a bracelet but when I thanked him, I remember him saying, ‘Of course. I’m just paying it forward.’ It wasn’t until I looked it up that night did I realize what he meant.”
>> How can you get involved?
It’s easy! Shoot Charley Johnson an email at charley@pifexperience.org with your information and the amount of bracelets you want. The organization will send them to you as fast as they can. But of course, you don’t need a bracelet to be a good person. Just as in Lauren’s case,
anyone can start paying it forward. Find a person who might need a helping hand or an act of kindness to brighten up their day. Let them know you care and they’ll pass it along. A wise person once said “nobody can do everything, but everyone can do something.” We can all start doing something today.
>> Online Resources
For ideas on how to pay it forward, please visit the following online resources: http://www.pifexperience.org/ http://www.spreadkindness.org/tools/ideas http://www.helpothers.org/ideas.php
Images courtesy of Google Images.
movement more successful than ever.
10 FEATURED ARTICLE
By Rubi Morgan Staff Writer
Let’s face it—we all may be feeling a little down right now.
Our New Year’s Resolution didn’t hold up so well and now it’s just one more failed goal. Maybe you indulged in a can of coca-cola right after the Save the Polar Bears commercial, just to do your part. Or the gym was “probably closed” that Friday, Saturday, and
Sunday (and heck, you
just didn’t have time the rest of the week). So we ate, and we sat. We took a page from Sheldon’s book and stayed inside with our own spot on the couch, saying
we would try again tomorrow.
Image courtesy of Google Images.
Get Healthy for Summer, for Life
FEATURED ARTICLE 11 Well now, you have another chance! With summer coming up, everyone’s ready to have some fun and feel good while doing it (unlike the fun we had during Spring Break, but we’ll just let that go). But for your body to feel good, you have to take good care of it. Here are a few tips to start you on your way to a healthier lifestyle this summer:
eat regularly
consistent sleep
I’ll admit it, we’re students and busy professionals; if anyone has the worst sleep schedule, it’s us. We might sleep the entire day away or pull all nighters like they’re nothing. Our bodies hate us for it! Sleep not only gives us the energy we need to go about our day, it improves memory, physical performance, and even influences our emotions. Also, a regular sleep schedule can help you go to sleep when you want to instead of lying in bed for an hour trying. In fact, after only a couple of routine weeks, you can train your body to sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow at midnight and wake up without an alarm clock at eight in the morning. Eight full hours of sleep; our moms would be proud.
#4
avoid smoking
#5
be patient
It’s been said time and time again since we were in elementary school, but the message has not changed for good reason. Not only does smoking directly increase the chances of certain cancers but it also affects the health of those around you and your children even long after you stop smoking. Curb your smoking desires by replacing it with tea, chewing gum, or even sunflower seeds! The moment you decide to stop smoking, your life expectancy will increase by at least thirteen years. It will be hard but like Mr. Sir would say, “This ain’t no Girl Scouts’ camp!”
For some reason, we all expect to make a goal and see immediate results. This is never the case. Don’t expect to totally break all your bad habits within the first week. Even if you only break one, you’ll be better off than when you started.
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For busy butterflies on the go, check out this list of smart snacks that taste great and have added health benefits.
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Smart Snacks
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get active
for
#3
We all knew this was coming: the dreaded ‘e’ word. While I’m not talking about running ten miles every morning with ankle weights strapped on, I don’t mean the walk from the parking lot to Forever 21 either. Just thirty minutes of moderate to rigorous exercise a day, will keep the doctors (and the gray hairs) away. This doesn’t even have to require a gym membership. Playing a friendly game of beach volleyball, riding your bike in the park, or even a sisterhood activity can all be great ways to be active. Anyone remember doubledutch?
for
#2
fo
#
Images courtesy of Google Images.
1
That’s right! I didn’t say skip meals so you can fit into those new skinny jeans. I said eat! And eat all the time! 5-6 small meals a day keeps your body energized and constantly fueled. A bowl of fruit with toast in the morning, a lean turkey and cheese sandwich mid-morning, and soup with crackers during your lunch break are some ideas to go on. Best part of this- you’ll never be hungry! Eating regularly curbs your appetite, makes your body burn calories faster in anticipation of the next meal, and even melts away stored fat as the brain believes there’s no reason to store back up fuel when it gets it so often. And if you drink water between meals, your body will be healthier than ever before.
12 COVER FEATURE host it in my town. Monica C: I’ve been asked this question a lot over the years, and my favorite go-to Continued From Page 1 memories tend to be from the early years. Particularly memorable for me was the Lavender Dawn semi-formal What initially attracted in 1999. This was when I met you to Theta Nu Xi? Sisters from UNC for the first time; it was also my birthday and Amanda Greene’s birthday Natrina L: GA State University was my first choice because of its diversity, so as a student I had friends from all different backgrounds and I thought “why couldn’t we be Greek together?” So I went to the Greek Life Coordinator [and] told her “I want to start a Greek organization that is multicultural,” and how I couldn’t believe no one had thought of it before. She showed me the Theta Nu Xi website; there, on the page, were some of my ideas from my scribbled notes on the internet—the letters, the colors, the symbol. I was in love and a little stalker-ish. I first met Leticia, one of Zeta Chapter’s Founders, by busting into their chapter meeting. Gina A: The fact that the organization was like none other on the campus of Florida State University; the events were always well executed, and the Sisters visibly enjoyed one another. Catherine H: The welcoming attitude of the Upsilon Chapter’s diverse sisterhood. Shauma B: How friendly all the Sisters were on our campus and they so I remember the exact date. Other had the highest GPA of all favorite memories include: statewide Greek-letter organizations on campus. formals in NC, annual Conventions, NC Erika F: The level of professionalism and Sisters visiting me in NY when I was in the consistency of how the Sisters carried grad school, Xi Beta beach trips, Komen 3 themselves. The Sisters truly exemplified Day walks, and the list goes on. the Tenets and true Sisterhood. Amanda T: There are so many! This past convention I was awarded the Distinguished Service Award. What made What is your favorite this so special was the presentation of Theta Nu Xi memory? it—Sisters who I have always looked up to and viewed as mentors took a moment to speak. Their words were very touching Cori A: I loved the national convention and I still think about what was said today. in Greensboro. I also have fond memories Gina A: No question: having Sisters of the DC convention—it was our first “grown up” meeting and I was so proud to
15 Years, 15 Sisters,
15 Questions 1
2
Above: Cori Ahrens (right) with fellow past National Presidents LaToya Eaves & Jerri Kallam Left: Sisters singing at Gina Alemán’s wedding Bottom, left: Monica Copeland (left) with Team ONE Cure at the 2011 Komen 3-Day Bottom, right: Shauma Brown (right) & Founding Monarch Katherine Stanley at Convention in New Mexico
circle up and sing For All My Life by candlelight at my wedding! Shauma B: Meeting a National Founder for the first time. It was at the Albuquerque Convention, which is where the Psi chapter is and I stalked her through the parking lot at 10 pm at night to get a picture with her. Pretty sure I freaked her out, but I have my picture and my memory.
3
If you could use one word to describe Theta Nu Xi, what would it be?
Amariee C: Acknowledgement Shari R: Compelling
COVER FEATURE 13 meet the sisters
homeland and the states in the Mid-Atlantic are geographically close so it’s easier to stay connected. What hopes do you have Xiomara L: In the for the future of Theta Northeast region, our Nu Xi? chapters have their very own Cori A: I hope that we continue to grow personalities. These and almost move back to the ways our personalities make Founders wanted us to be. We weren’t the Cori Ahrens us all very unique. chapter that focused on stepping or #4 True Blue However, we all Alpha, Spring 1998 strolling, we focused on education and have one common really representing diversity at our characteristic; we get University. Sometimes I am worried that it done! we are trying too hard to be like everyone Gina A: Simply else that we forget that what makes us so said, we know how unique is that we have our own path. to have a lot of Holly W: I hope that the women of Theta rowdy fun! It’s the Nu Xi will become activists in their field down south swag I of interest, advocating for those who have guess! Amanda Tomchak not had the opportunities we have been so #3 Autumn Rain Catherine H: The fortunate to have. Iota, Spring 2001 Midwest chapters are Amanda T: To keep true to our mission unique, because in a as we grow and continue to foster the picture the majority relationships we’ve had with each other of Sisters may only since the beginning, and to be a represent “white” ‘household’ name in Greek Life. or “black,” but in Amariee C: I hope reality, they that we will be able represent to continue to grow immensely and revitalize diverse Gina (Bethel) Alemán previous chapters interests, #7 Lovespell with strong sisterly goals, and Lambda, Spring 2004 bonds and Sisters histories— willing to work things that beyond graduation. can only be realized Erika F: I hope to if you sit help our Sisterhood down and grow in the Northget to know east. I remember them. For Above: being that girl in Houlihan with Line example, I college trying to find Catherine Amariee Sparro Collins Sister Kimberly Shrack in no longer the organization that Boston, MA in 2011 #3 Archduchess look at my was right for me; Omicron, Spring 2007 luckily I was diligent and finally found my #4 Kimberly VENUS Shrack as a “white home. I want other women to discover girl from Greentown, Theta Nu Xi and all the realness it has to Indiana.” I now see offer easily. her as the “awe-inspiring, ultra-liberal, What do you think is vibrant red head that unique about the had the courage to chapters in your region? break away from her Genesys Nuñez conservative roots.” #5 Flawless And Kim is just one Holly L: Well, North Carolina is like the Alpha Iota, Spring 2010
Lorraine N: Everlasting Xiomara L: REWARDING!!! Genesys N: Constant
4
Holly L. Woodard #1 Tan-Gent Beta, Spring 1999
Monica Copeland #1 Contradiction Delita, Spring 2000
Natrina Perkins Lawson #2 Connect Four Zeta, Summer 2002
Xiomara Lara #3 Amanuet
Shari Alicia Roberts #5 Sunset Alpha Alpha, Summer 2005
Xi Alpha, Summer 2003
Catherine Houlihan #6 Mayaimi Dolce Upsilon, Spring 2006
Shauma Brown #2 Babel Psi, Spring 2008
Lorraine Marie Negron #1 tenACEous paNtera
Antoinette Manuel #3 RheToriK Mu, Spring 2011
Erika Maria Figueroa #3 Diamond Dust Xi Xi, Spring 2012
Alpha Epsilon, Fall 2009
5
14 COVER FEATURE of the many that helped me grow and appreciate the true diversity of a seemingly un-diverse community. Antoinette M: I think the Southwest definitely has its own style; I think the motto for us would be “Go hard or go home!”
6
What is special about your chapter of origin?
Cori A: Alpha is the mothership. And I
got to see it all from the beginning. It is a pretty special memory—one that I will carry with me forever. Monica C: My chapter of origin (Delta Chapter) is special because it has always had a bit of a reputation for being cerebral (a.k.a. nerdy) and eclectic. A commonality is that most have cared about their academics, but beyond that the members have such different backgrounds and personal interests. We probably have a high percentage of doctors, but some of Delta’s members have gone on to become attorneys, ministers, librarians, engineers, teachers, geologists, social workers, epidemiologists, and journalists just to name a few. Amanda T: When Iota Chapter was founded there weren’t any Multicultural Fraternities or Sororities and today there are 5 - I believe we blazed that trail. Amariee C: Omicron was one of the founding organizations of the Multicultural Greek Council at the University of Houston in 2003. Sonia Bhushan, a founder, served on the National Board as National Treasurer. Our university is a commuter campus, more than 60% of students live off campus, and we have been able to reach like-minded women to continue to grow the chapter. Antoinette M: The Mu Chapter is the only multicultural based organization on the University of Arizona campus. We are the only organization that if someone were to see us all together they would be able to
say “Yes, that is a TRULY multicultural organization.” We represent this fact in everything we do.
7
How has Theta Nu Xi helped you grow as a person?
Xiomara L: I feel that our organization offers many opportunities for growth in both an educational and professional aspect. I feel I have become a stronger leader and advocate due to the positions I have held within the National Sorority and in my chapter. I have become more knowledgeable about issues surrounding other cultures, beliefs, and lifestyles due to the sharing and education implemented
Above: Xiomara Lara (fourth from right) with Xi Alpha Chapter at 2012 Northeast Regional Conference Right: Holly Woodard (top left) with Grace Haines & Founding Monarchs Brenda Eribo and Melissa MurchisonBlake Bottom: Antoinette Manuel (third from top left) & the Mu chapter celebrates the chapter’s 10th Anniversary
by members of the organization. As a result, I have gained such a better understanding of the world and have become a stronger leader because of it. Catherine H: If it wasn’t for Theta Nu Xi, I would not have had the opportunity to work for Best Buddies. When my AmeriCorps VISTA year was coming to an end, it was Jennifer Constantine (Lambda Chapter) who recommended that I apply for an entry-level position at Best Buddies. Because of her, I am now doing what I love. Theta Nu Xi offers Sisters like me an essential network of driven women from all walks of life! Shari R: The mix of sisterhood and business within Theta Nu Xi has provided me with a unique opportunity to develop my leadership skills while simultaneously growing as a person. I had to learn how to be both professional and social in order help found the Alpha Alpha Chapter at the University of Florida and those are lessons I will keep with me for a lifetime. Lorraine N: Through the sisterhood I realized that I’m worth a lot more than I gave myself credit for. It has helped me have a greater self-esteem and never to allow anyone to tell me, “you can’t.” because as a Theta [Nu Xi] woman I know, “I CAN!” It’s given me a family/a support system to feel protected, loved, and valued.
Genesys N: I am extremely
professional because of Theta Nu Xi. I can go into a business meeting and feel confident representing my Sisters and myself. I know how to interact with people in an appropriate manner. I also do very well with interviews. My term as President helped greatly with this because I was often put on the spot and had to answer uncomfortable questions. I have found my confident voice. I also grew as a Sister; I learned to open up to my Sisters and try to not to handle everything on my own; I let people in emotionally which was hard for me before.
COVER FEATURE 15 8
What changes have you seen in the organization since becoming a Sister?
Holly W: The original Founders were
convention at the University of North Carolina- Chapel Hill. I have also witnessed the closing of chapters due to lack of on-campus interest in the past few years. The organization appears to have hit adolescence, which is an essential turning point that will determine our future. We now must decide where we will go from here…
more focused on being active members of the community through service, than step shows and social events. The social part is still very important. Evolution and improvement is always necessary in Where do you envision young organizations. I hope to see how Theta Nu Xi in another 15 we can find more creative ways to years? showcase our talents. I hope that we can make sure we are reaching out to all races, Monica C: I could say that I hope Theta cultures, religions, backgrounds, and Nu Xi has an office space and paid staff to lifestyles. support its members. That’s what I might Monica C: The most obvious change is have said 12 years ago when I first joined the Sorority’s size. When I joined when (and I did say something like that at the there were 38 members, and now there Greensboro convention), but now that’s are over 1,000. When we had 42 members not necessarily where I think it should (including my line) in four chapters all be in the next 15 years. Instead, I simply located in the same state, it was easy to hope that as an organization, Theta Nu Xi know who everyone was by name and by continues to be what its members want it face. Even when we started to expand to to be. That means getting an honest other states, we still knew what was going on in each chapter (from their events, to their service projects, to their newest members). Natrina L: One Word: OrgSync! The [guiding policies] keeps getting better and better; we have Regions now which was a personal goal of mine for the organization; we reach 1,000 Sisters…; we changed philanthropies; Sisters are doing more service and diversity hours than ever before; we are a part of the National Multicultural Greek Council…[and]…all the expansion on the Undergrad and GAP level. Shari R: I have seen the organization expand both geographically and in the number of Sisters crossed. One of the biggest and best changes has been regionalization. Catherine H: I have witnessed the excitement and determination to change the world that Top: Genesys Nuñez (second from left) with Alpha Iota sisters Sisters exhibited at at a service event to benefit St. Jude’s Research Hospital. our ten-year Bottom: Shari Roberts (fifth from top left) with Alpha Alpha anniversary Chapter sisters for their annual chapter photos
9
assessment from the members and seeing if all the current elements and requirements are necessary and bearing the most fruit. I think we still have to figure out how to help keep members engaged and connected over time and in meaningful ways. Holly W: International Natrina L: We will probably be hitting the 30,000 member mark … It would be nice to have an actual headquarters building, maybe a house or two on a couple campuses for our undergrad Sisters. I’d like to see the ONE Foundation up and running again; donating a $1 million to our philanthropy. National Board positions being full-time careers and tons of expansion, so we’ll need to add a state level to the regional structure. It’s exciting to think of us as that large! Gina A: I imagine chapters of Theta Nu Xi popping up on nearly every college campus and in every major metro area. I imagine the now young daughters of our Sisters going off to college and becoming Theta Nu Xi legacies! I foresee us having a major impact on our causes and philanthropy, both financially and through service. Overall, I imagine an even stronger organization in numbers and impact. Shauma B: 2,500 members, leading the National Multicultural Greek Council, 50 chapters, a Convention on a cruise ship, and being as awesome as ever.
10
What is your personal definition of multiculturalism?
Cori A: Accepting of everyone—regard-
less of their beliefs, culture, [or] creed. I may not personally agree with what someone believes, but I have respect for the human race to know that we all have the RIGHT to live our lives how we see fit.
16 COVER FEATURE Xiomara L:
Multiculturalism is so much more than just how we look, but more about learning, understanding, and appreciating different cultures, regions, backgrounds, and lifestyles. It’s about sharing our cultural and daily traditions. Multiculturalism is constantly changing due to the development of experiences and backgrounds. So as a result, we must constantly be learning from each other to recognize the value of our differences.
Right: Erika Figueroa (third from right) & Xi Xi Sisters Below, Left: Amanda Tomchak (far right) in New Orleans with sisters Below, Right: Lorraine Negron (left) with Line Sisters Rezi Salinas & Alexis Cook
Genesys N:
I think multiculturalism goes hand in hand with social justice. Of course, it is nice to embrace differences and similarities we have with one another but that is not enough. It is about taking a stand when you see an injustice because like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said, “to ignore an evil is to become an accomplice to it.” Multiculturalism is also about being open minded and trying to view things through other people’s eyes. It is not about trying to sway someone to think how you think, but about being open minded and sharing your thoughts to give others a different perspective. Antoinette M: Multiculturalism is knowing and learning about people from a different background than yours. It is taking the time to step outside your comfort zone to get to know others and not only tolerating, but accepting those people no matter how different they are from you. Erika F: Multiculturalism is the one word that unifies and safeguards different races and cultures. It stands not only for unity, but also equality of any minority groups.
11
What do your line sisters mean to you?
Monica C: My Line Sisters are
amazing women each in their own right. I am inspired by them, and I love that we have seen each other grow up. For over a decade now we have played musical chairs by living in different states, but despite the moves we have experienced many of life’s joys and sorrows together. They know who I am as a person, and we can always pick up right where we left off no matter the day, season, or year. Shari R: My Line Sisters are huge part of my life. We went through a process together that we will never forget. We will always have each other’s back no matter the distance or circumstance. Lorraine N: My Line Sisters, haha, they are the ones I can act random, silly, and dumb with and they can say “oh, LS…” and we just know what the other is thinking. Genesys N: My Line Sisters mean the WORLD to me! I truly have a love for them that cannot be explained. We are all so different but what we have in common is that we are all strong, independent women. The bond we have, I did not think I could have with anyone. They keep me humble whenever I get big headed and lift my spirit whenever I am down. I know that the bond we have is something that can never be broken and one of a kind. Erika F: My Line Sisters mean a lot to me. They make it a point to always be there for me all in their own ways.
They’ve taught me to seek and accept help when I need it.
do your Chapter 12 What Sisters mean to you? Natrina L: My Chapter Sisters, well some of us have been Chapter Sisters for our whole membership in the Sorority. It’s funny because she’s been the boss at times and I’ve been the boss at time and then we’ll both be in charge at the same time; that’s when it gets really crazy. I love that there’s mutual respect and egos are [minimal]; chapter and Greek life are not the places to be if you are selfish. Xiomara L: My chapter means the world to me. They are my family, my friends, and my shoulder to cry on. They are the women I turn to when I need a good laugh, a venting session and some personal guidance. They are my Sisters through thick and thin. Shari R: My Chapter Sisters are the driving force of my original chapter. They are the legacy and do a wonderful job. I love to visit and keep in touch with them. Lorraine N: My Chapter Sisters gave me a place to belong, the privilege to be chosen to go through a process to become a butterfly, and an unconditional love despite distance. Erika F: My chapter is very special to me. I’ve seen the hard work that has gone into
COVER FEATURE 17 establishing the chapter and working with momentum to keep growing. My Chapter Sisters are dedicated and assume the responsibility to keep Theta Nu Xi growing. I know I will learn from each and every one of them as we progress in our mission.
13
What do your Sorors around the country mean to you?
Cori A: Some of the best, most
inspirational women I have ever met are in our Sorority. I am so proud to know each and every one of them. And grateful—they have all made me a better person. Holly L: More than words can say Amanda T: My Sorors mean that I will never be alone; I love that when I’m thinking about traveling, there are always women to see and catch up with! Genesys N: It is an amazing feeling to be bonded with someone across the country because you are a part of the same organization. I know that if someone needed my help, although I did not know them, I would be there in an instant and I know that my Sorors feel that way too. My Line Sisters and I went to Miami and a Soror from Alpha Alpha, Melissa Nunez met up with us; we had lunch and went to the beach. It was nice to share stories and see how similar we were although we were from different places. Antoinette M: My Sisters mean the world to me. I consider joining this organization to be one of the best decisions I have ever made in my life solely because it brought them into my life.
14
What is the best moment of sisterhood you have experienced thus far?
Amanda T: When I moved to Phoenix,
the Sisters in Phoenix were very welcoming - helping me find a place to live and a job. They made themselves available when I arrived to spend time with me and help me acclimate to the new area. Shauma B: I have been there for all the special life moments like graduating and
having a baby but I think the best moment will be coming up in May. One of my Chapter Founders is getting married and I have seen this relationship since the beginning. I never thought I could be this happy for another person. Lorraine N: When Soror Tina Samuel (Alpha Eta) let me live with her after only meeting me once and I stayed with her and her family for over a semester. Not many can say they have been helped so much by someone they barely knew. Antoinette M: The best moment of sisterhood was the winning of the annual Triple S competition put on by The University of Arizona’s
Gina A: In undergrad, the emphasis is so much on your rank on the campus. There are so many requirements to fulfill; it’s easy to get lost in the business part of running a chapter. In GAP/GAL, we have a more relaxed environment and less demanding because of our professional and personal obligations. We really get the chance to cultivate our sisterly bonds and involve ourselves in the larger community in which we live.
Top: Amariee Collins (center) with alumane & GAP sisters at Omicron Chapter event Left: Natrina Perkins (far right) at professional event with Xi Epsilon & Zeta sisters in Atlanta.
United Sorority and Fraternity Council every year. Winning was a culmination of all the hard work and stressful long nights we had put into the show and it was just so amazing to share that moment with my Sisters.
15
What is the biggest difference between undergraduate and GAP/GAL membership?
Natrina L: The biggest difference is the
schedule; I went from having chapter every week along with campus mandatory events, our events, council meetings, classes and work to just working, going to a couple events, family (dating; relationship stuff) and one chapter a month. You feel like such a slacker because college goes by in such a blur; I went to grad school just to feel productive. So if you are about to graduate from undergrad, try to catch up with some GAP Sisters and hang out with them a little so you can see how relaxing it will be and prepare yourself.
Catherine H: When I was an undergrad, Theta Nu Xi was my life. Now that I am a GAL member, Theta Nu Xi has become a driving force in my career. It was once my entirety. Now, it is a cherished piece in my multicultural life! Amariee C: Undergrad sets the foundation and allows many to find themselves and flourish. GAP is less rigorous and [more] rewarding by continuous efforts of Theta [Nu Xi] Women that continue to pump lavender and Carolina blue in their veins that support [undergraduate chapters] and have city and state involvement that continue to spread our organization’s existence. Shauma B: As an undergrad, I formed these amazing bonds with Sisters, as a GAL, I get to solidify them instead of having to focus on standards reports for the university and Greek Games and Greek [events] and all of that other stuff. As an undergraduate, I was consumed with completing tasks for our mission statements and tenets, but as a GAL, I can simply just live them.
18 CONVENTION 2012
Are you ready for Detroit? Convention 2012 | August 3rd - 5th, 2012 | Detroit, Michigan Upcoming Registration Deadlines Legislation Reminder Standard Registration ($325) ends June 30th! Late Registration ($350) ends July 20th! Visit http://thetanuxisorority.orgsync.com/Planning for more information on registration.
Any submissions for legislation will be accepted until Sunday, June 24th and will be distributed to the membership by July 3rd. For instructions: https://orgsync.com/36890/files/115372.
Convention Social Media
Be sure to join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/ groups/233519220019588/ and follow http://www.twitter.com/TNXConvention on Twitter for more information and updates!
Call for Photos
The Convention Committee is requesting your ONEderful photos to help showcase our five tenets and our unique SISTERHOOD 15 years in the making! Please contribute photos taken from April 1997 to 2012 that reflect TNX at our best! Send your pictures to one.tomoko.6@gmail.com and include the chapter & the year.
Award Bids Reminder
Award bid submissions will be accepted until Sunday, June 24th and will be distributed to the membership by July 3rd. Awards policy: https://orgsync.com/36890/files/115369.
Register for Convention for a chance to win a Free 90 Minute Photo Shoot!
The first Undergraduate and the first Graduate Chapter to have their two Delegates, Dean, President & Treasurer register and pay for Convention will win this wONEderful prize (Note: Each Chapter is required to send two Delegates to Convention, however all other positions are encouraged to attend). The 90 Minute Photo Shoot includes: Unlimited Outfit Changes, Unlimited Location Changes, Unlimited Poses, and Unlimited Access to your Images!Detroit has so many areas with rich colors and bold statements, and this photo shoot will give you a chance to show your Detroit and Theta Nu Xi! For any questions about the contest, please contact kathrenia_workman@yahoo.com.
Elections Reminder
Nominations will be accepted for the following National positions to national.administrator@thetanuxi.org until Friday June 8th, 2012 All National Executive and National Directorship positions are open only to active GAP members, in good standing (except the Undergraduate Student Advocate, which is open only to active undergraduate members in good standing, who have not graduated with their initial degrees). Open positions for the 2012 Convention: • National VP for Intake and Expansion • National VP for GAP Affairs • National VP for Membership Affairs • National Treasurer • Undergraduate Student Advocate • Director of Philanthropy & Fundraising • Regional Director, Mid-Atlantic • Regional Director, Northeast • Regional Director, Southeast • National Multicultural Greek Council member-at-large (Representative) – starts March 2013
COVER FEATURE 19 Theta Nu Xi & the NMGC
of the NMGC
Click on an Organization’s crest to view their website. Continued From Page 1
oversight, Theta Nu Xi has often been mislabeled a “local” sorority, which has lead to significant restrictions on the Sorority’s ability to establish and maintain chapters on college and university campuses. Second, on a local level, allying with ten established multicultural sororities and fraternities will allow Theta Nu Xi to further its objective to promote Greek unity, as well as to expand the vital support system enjoyed by all the NMGC member organizations. Third, on an inter/national level, as Theta Nu Xi combines its presence and perspective with those of the other NMGC member organizations, the collective voice of multicultural fraternities and sororities will be strengthened, thereby improving the reputation and power of the multicultural Greek movement. As the Council develops and matures, the member organizations will certainly continue to discover new benefits to being part of an umbrella council.
Reflecting on the Quest
In early 2004, the National Board of Theta Nu Xi first began discussing potential membership in a national council for multicultural Greek organizations. Options were severely limited at the time, as small upstarts failed to gain traction and the NMGC was still in the process of development, having been conceptualized only a few years earlier in 1998. By 2007, the Council was operating as an advisory group, linking over a dozen multicultural fraternities and sororities. In October of that year, then-National President, LaToya Eaves, reached out to the NMGC to inquire about the Council’s development status. While talks were fruitful, the National Board learned that the NMGC was in flux, preparing for an important overhaul. And, in mid-2008, the Council made public a critical, strategic move. The organization announced that it was preparing to recast itself as a governing council, after having spent its formative years as an advisory group. Following a vote at the April 2008 NMGC Conference, the decision was finalized to move forward with the reorganization and the Council spent the next three years overhauling and formalizing their operations. An important aspect of the reorganization was that it gave the Council a chance to identify and provide palatable benefits to its member organizations and to enhance the profile of multicultural fraternities and sororities as a whole. In December 2011, Theta Nu Xi received notification of admittance to the NMGC following a vote at the Council’s conference in St. Louis, Missouri. As the newest member of the NMGC, Theta Nu Xi has actively begun to establish a rapport with other NMGC member organizations as well as to plan for future opportunities to take part in the mission of the Council. For more information on the NMGC, please visit http://www.nationalmgc.org.
MSU
Mu Sigma Upsilon Sorority, Inc. Founded: November 21, 1981
GST
Delphic of Gamma Sigma Tau Founded: October 1871/March 1987
LTW
Lambda Tau Omega Sorority, Inc. Founded: October 9, 1988
WFC
Omega Phi Chi Sorority, Inc. Founded: November 9, 1988
YSF
Psi Sigma Phi Multicultural Fraternity, Inc. Founded: December 12, 1990
DXF
Delta Xi Phi Multicultural Sorority, Inc. Founded April 20, 1994
GH
Gamma Eta Sorority, Inc. Founded: October 18, 1995
FSC
Phi Sigma Chi Multicultural Fraternity Founded: November 16, 1996
DSC
Delta Sigma Chi Multicultural Sorority, Inc. Founded November 27, 1996
LYD
Lambda Psi Delta Sorority, Inc. Founded: March 9, 1997
Images courtesy of the National Multicultural Greek
Connections:
Member Organizations
CRITICAL
20 CHAPTER HIGHLIGHTS In order to keep all sisters up-to-date on what our various chapters are doing, each issue of ΘΝΞVision will chronicle quarterly highlights from each contributing chapter.
Alpha
On February 14, the sisters of the Alpha Chapter made Valentines’ Day special for Carolina Dining Services by spontaneously handing out Valentines to workers at Lenior Dining Hall on UNC’s main campus (photo at right). On March 17, Alpha Chapter and GAP sisters attended Carolina Indian Circle’s 25th Annual Powwow and had the privilege of watching Soror Autumn Locklear perform. In individual news, Soror Funmi Solar performed in UNC’s Tunnel of Oppression, an immersive experience in which UNC students explore issues of oppression. Soror Arlena Ratliff received an internship for the upcoming summer at Cascades Tissue Group in Rockingham, NC. Finally, Soror Kyrie Joyce graduated from UNC Kenan-Flagler’s GLOBE (Global Learning Opportunities in Business Education) program in December 2011.
Delta
This past March has been busy for the Delta Chapter! Three of our members performed in Duke University’s Dance Council Showcase on March 16th. Soror Britany Thompson performed with Sabrosura, Duke’s Latin dance group, while Sorors Meg Akim and Lotte Van Miegroet both participated with Momentum, a multicultural dance group at Duke. Additionally, on March 17th the chapter supported their Greek community by attending Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.’s annual ball. On March 24th, Soror Juanita Hazel walked as part of the Black Student Alliance’s fashion show. This show is held every spring in conjunction with
the National Panhellenic Council’s step show; we are so proud of her for representing Theta Nu Xi to such a diverse part of Duke’s community.
Psi
The Psi Chapter also won Most Improved GPA during the University of New Mexico’s 2012 Greek Awards on March 3rd!
Alpha Theta The Alpha Theta Chapter, with the help of the Xi Alpha Chapter, conducted a NOH8 photo shoot in the beginning of March (photo at right). NOH8 was used as the theme of the Alpha Theta Founders’ Week.
Alpha Iota
Alpha Iota is proud to announce that Soror Habiba “Ambush” Braimah, Spring 10 Dramatic Effect, is graduating May 19th and she has been accepted into NYU, Syracuse, Rochester, Canisus, New Rochelle and Hofstra for Graduate School. Sorors Funmike “renACEance” Kyuoro, and Rebecca “Caged Crest” Carpentier, Spring 11 CovAILance, are also graduating this semester, both with honors. Soror Carpentier was accepted into Rho Lambda
CHAPTER HIGHLIGHTS 21 and Order of Omega Honor Societies this semester, and Soror Kuyoro was accepted into Omicron Delta Kappa. Soror Genesys “Flawless” Nunez, Spring 2010, is also graduating from SUNY Plattsburgh this semester. Finally, the chapter collected over 500 butterflies to be donated to the Holocaust Museum (pictured at right, above).
Alpha Lambda
Alpha Lambda is proud to announce that their chapter was recognized by the Northeast Greek Leadership Association (NGLA) with the Amy Vojta Impact Award, the Multi-Cultural Award, for their annual Multicultural Language Night and International Bazaar events. The International Bazaar is a weeklong sale of items from around the world that the Alpha Lambda Sisters collect, and Multicultural Language Night occurs during the week of International Bazaar and allows attendees to learn phrases from other languages, learn about different cultures, and see various performances from students and organizations at WPI. Each year the events grow further: this year, the Chapter raised $1400 from the International Bazaar, part of which benefitted Ugandan and Kenyan women entrepreneurs; over 15 languages and countries were represented at Multicultural Language Night, with four performances, international food, and beautiful decorations. Alpha Lambda hopes that some of their Sisters can attend these events next year, which will be held specifically to benefit Girls for a Change! Alpha Lambda is also proud to announce that our #5 Founder, Soror Zhixin “Hara” Wang, won the first prize for the Undergraduate Level Elevator Pitch and Poster Competition at the NanoWorcester Research Symposium with her research on thin film photovoltaics technology (pictured at right, middle). She was awarded with a $200 cash prize. Congratulations, Hara!
Xi Alpha
Soror Ayana K. Domingo is currently taking photography classes at NYU towards her Professional Certificate in
Digital Photography and Imaging. Soror Strawbry Jiles applied to Grad School at the CUNY New School in NYC. The Chapter is anxiously waiting for the good news of her acceptance! The Xi Alpha Chapter celebrated Soror Ivettelis Perez’s Bachelorette party (pictured at left, bottom)! Everyone is very excited about her wedding which occurred during the month of April this year! Soror Jeanelle Folkes is in her fourth month in her new position as Operations and Systems Support Specialist for the Office of the Registrar at Columbia University, managing all of the internal system functions and processes for all of Columbia’s admissions offices. She adores this new role! On March 22nd, Soror Jessica Penaranda presented at a conference on March 22nd and participated in the two day conference put on by The Freedom Network USA. This organization is a network of direct service providers that work on anti-trafficking from direct social services to advocacy efforts. Her employer is a member of this network and as such, she will speak at the conference on the panel entitled “Models of Clinical Support: Collaboration and Exchange Between Case Managers, Attorneys, and Counselors”. Additionally, the Chapter recently celebrated Soror Carina Diaz, Soror Rhaema Friday and Soror Strawbry Jiles birthdays. Finally, within the past two months, the Xi Alpha Chapter made road trips to both Philadelphia and Connecticut to visit Soros Tanya Jankowski and Friday. During their visits, the Sisters saw great sights of their cities.
Xi Beta
Soror Maria Ukattah (pictured below at left) was accepted into Webster University’s Global Master of Arts in International Relations program. Soror Kelly Weston (pictured at right) attained a new position as Senior
22 CHAPTER HIGHLIGHTS Administrative Council Clerk for the city of Winston-Salem, NC. Soror Ashley Devon Smith attained (pictured at right) a new position as Teacher for the NC Pre-K/More @ 4 Program and was accepted into the University of North Carolina at Greensboro’s Master of Science in School Counseling program.
Xi Gamma
Xi Gamma (pictured below, at top) has had a very successful year thus far, beginning in January with the 10th anniversary of their Winter ONEderland fundraiser. With much thanks and appreciation of Sisters in the Mid-Atlantic Region, as well as community support, Xi Gamma was able to donate $630 to our National Philanthropy, Girls For A Change! The Sisters of Xi Gamma are doing big things... They are thrilled to report that following a successful recovery from surgery, Soror Camille Bowens is in remission! Soror Dana Wooster proved her Leadership and commitment to this Sorority by taking over the intake process as Dean for the Delta Chapter - her alma mater and Chapter of initiation. Dana was aided by Xi Gamma Sorors Tanya Arditi, Amanda Robison and Michelle Watkins. In addition, Xi Gamma is excited to be growing! The Chapter officially welcomed 2 new members to their family - Soror Amanda Robison, Delta Chapter, Spring 2008 and Soror Danica Sirmans, Lambda Chapter, Spring 2008. In individual news, Soror Tanya Arditi has begun a new position at a Public Affairs Firm. In addition to being the Communications and PR chair on the board of the Young Adults Division of her synagogue, she was voted into the synagogue’s Board of Directors as the youngest board member to be elected.
other sisters in the region. Xi Eta sisters also enjoyed participating in Operation Beautiful and posting notes around downtown Phoenix. Xi Eta celebrated its ninth year since its founding on March 9, 2004. Current Xi Eta President, Heather Truschel, got a new job as a School Based Clinician at Southwest Behavioral!
Xi Mu
Soror Anjeli Singh (top left) is newly engaged, moving into her first house, and will be traveling to 7 different countries this year. Soror Gina Aleman (top right) started her own event planning business: Array Event Design. Check her out on facebook! Soror Elena Saldamando (bottom left) ran her first 1/2 Marathon in Miami’s ING Half/Full Marathon. Soror Christaly Albarracin (bottom right) is continuing her Masters of Arts degree in Industrial Organizational Psychology at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
Xi Nu
The Xi Nu Chapter would like to announce the birth of Brent Nicholas Rosby (pictured below). The world and his proud parents, Soror Cassandra RichardsonRosby (Xi Nu by way of Omicron) and her husband Gene Rosby,
Xi Eta
Four members of Xi Eta (Heather Truschel, Katie Curiel, Ayumi Kunihiro, and Amanda Tomchak, pictured at right, below) participated in the West Region Retreat in Moab, UT from February 18-20, 2012 to meet with several
welcomed him on March 18, 2012 at 8:18 AM. The Omicron Chapter also welcomes this addition to their
CHAPTER HIGHLIGHTS 23 family as Cassandra’s Chapter of Initiation.
GAL
Soror Leigh Loman (Chapter of Initiation: Nu) will complete her first year at Notre Dame Law this semester, and this summer she will work at the United States Attorney’s Office in Pittsburgh, which is supervised by the Deptartment of Justice. Soror Jasmine Collins (Chapter of Initiation: Upsilon) would like to announce that she has been admitted to the Ph.D. in Education, Policy, Organization and Leadership Program at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and has officially have officially accepted their offer! Soror Amanda O. FigueroaGonzales (Chapter of Initiation: Psi Founder) will be marrying her fiance Ricky Bird May 26, 2012 in Las Vegas, NV. They have been dating four years and will be surrounded by Sorors and family on the day of their wedding.
published in the Spring 2012 UMR-ACUHO Perspectives Magazine. The article discusses ways to motivate and empower students who you work with. Also, she received an ACUHO-I Internship at Georgia State University in Summer 2012 at the Residential Life department. You can follow her graduate journey on twitter @natasiabongcas. Soror Linda Kay Faber (Chapter of Initiation: Xi Beta) was married to John Dwayne Greene on August 28th, 2011 in Christiansburg, VA Soror Joane Nwoke (Chapter of Initiation: Alpha Beta Founder) is now engaged to her fiancé Abe Blocton (pictured below). They plan to marry in Fall 2013.
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Soror Katherine Ntiamoah (Chapter of Initiation: Upsilon) was officially commissioned as a Foreign Service Officer (U.S. Diplomat) for the U.S. Department of State in March 2012. She is headed to Mexico as a Vice Consul in the U.S. Consulate in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. Soror Natasia Bongcas’ (Chapter of Initiation: Tau) article, “Pay It Forward: Recognizing Student Leaders” was
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