THE TRIDENT OF
IN THIS ISSUE:
TRI DELTA
Kindness Week 2021 A New Home at Butler
Remembering Jeanne Johnston Phillips
FALL 2021 www.tridelta.org
Contents
Tri Deltas across the country, including in San Diego (pictured), got out and walked for the virtual St. Jude Walk/ Run on Sept. 25. Read more on page 20. On the Cover: photo by Andy Vracin.
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Fall 2021 volume 131 The cover photo of actress
ON THE COVER Leaning In to a Lifetime of Growth
Live Learn Lead
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Join Tri Delta for our new LEADDD Monthly Keynote Series!
Life After College
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DEPARTMENTS
For a Lifetime
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With Purpose
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Founders' Day Proclamation
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Read more about some of our dedicated volunteers
LEADDD Now
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In Memoriam
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Tri Delta Today
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Tri Delta ReaDDDs
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Historically Speaking
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Celebrating our 2021 Sarah Ida Shaw and Women of Achievement Award Winners
Kind Alike to All
Tri Delta's Foundation: Sisters Helping Sisters
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At every stage and phase of life, women are looking to Tri Delta for personal and professional growth and development
Letter from the CEO
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Tri Delta Living
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The Trident of Delta Delta Delta, the official publication of Tri Delta Fraternity, has been published continuously since 1891. Its mission is to reflect the lifetime membership experience while sharing the stories of our brave, bold and kind sisters. It also aims to provide a connection to Tri Delta for members of all ages, to bring the shared values of Tri Delta to life and to showcase Tri Delta as a premier women’s organization.
HOW TO RECEIVE THE TRIDENT Fall 2021 Volume 131 EDITORIAL CEO Editor-In-Chief Karen Hughes White, Georgia Managing Editor Mindy Tucker, Southern Methodist Director of Marketing and Creative Brandy Darrow, Southern Methodist Content Manager Amanda Milford, Texas/Arlington Archivist Beth Applebaum, Texas Christian DESIGN Art Director Liz Tindall, Texas Design Manager Katie Fleming, Franklin The Trident of Delta Delta Delta is published annually and is $10 per issue by Delta Delta Delta, 14951 North Dallas Parkway, Ste. 500, Dallas, Texas 75254. Copyright ©2021 by Delta Delta Delta. All rights reserved. Periodicals postage paid at Dallas, Texas, and additional mailing offices. MAILING POLICY: The Fraternity respects the privacy of its members. Mailing lists are shared only with vendors of Executive Board-approved Fraternity programs. These vendors sign an agreement prohibiting the sale of the mailing list.
Collegiate members receive The Trident through payment of Fraternity dues to their chapters. Individual copies are mailed to each undergraduate member’s permanent address, and two copies are sent to each collegiate chapter president. Alumnae members receive The Trident print edition through payment of annual dues, through an alumnae chapter or online ($33) at tridelta.org/foralifetime. All members can view The Trident online at tridelta.org/trident.
A NOTE TO PARENTS Your daughter’s copy of The Trident is being sent to your address while she is in college. We hope you enjoy reading it too. If your daughter is not in college, or is no longer living at home, please send us her new address.
HOW TO CHANGE AN ADDRESS Visit tridelta.org, log in to My Tri Delta and edit your personal information. You may also call (817) 633-8001 or send by mail to Delta Delta Delta, 14951 North Dallas Parkway, Ste. 500, Dallas, Texas 75254.
HOW TO CONTACT THE TRIDENT The Trident, 14951 North Dallas Parkway, Ste. 500, Dallas, Texas 75254 Email: trident@trideltaeo.org Phone: (817) 633-8001 Fax: (817) 652-0212
HOW TO SEND A LETTER TO THE EDITORIAL TEAM We welcome your comments, both positive and negative, about The Trident. Send letters to the editorial team via email or mail. Please include your name, school and initiation year. The Trident reserves the right to publish any letter addressed to the editor. Letters may be edited for space and clarity.
HOW TO GET PUBLISHED
This publication was printed using soy ink.
All Tri Deltas are encouraged to submit news and stories to The Trident. Tell us about your accomplishments, events and experiences, and please include photographs. Send stories and photos online through My Tri Delta or via email or mail. If submitting photos online or by email, please submit as high-resolution.
National Panhellenic Conference
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From the CEO
Dear Sisters, As we prepare to celebrate 133 years of Tri Delta this month, it’s important to reflect on our past and understand how it connects to our present and helps shape our future. In this year’s Founders’ Day Proclamation on p. 6, Fraternity President Megan Shaw James, Millsaps, does just that, as she shares her thoughts on the importance of maintaining a growth mindset—in the spirit of our Founders—as we face today’s challenges.
In our Ritual, we learn that “growth or development is the central thought around which Tri Delta is planned.” As you'll read throughout this issue of The Trident, Tri Delta has been committed to our members’ personal and professional growth and development from the organization’s earliest days. Beginning on p. 62, read about: • Fraternity President (1919-25) Hortense Imboden Hudson, Baker, the driving force behind Tri Delta’s early “vocational guidance” initiatives; • Vocational Advisor Marjorie Wilson, St. Lawrence, appointed by Tri Delta’s National Council in 1920 to provide career counseling to our collegiate members; and • The 1937 “I Want to Be ...” Trident feature that explored career opportunities for women and continued for more than 20 years.
Fast-forward to 2021—a time at which women, and particularly women of color, have been disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic—and you’ll understand Tri Delta’s ongoing commitment to our members’ growth and development as volunteers, professionals, leaders and catalysts for change. From: • Helping our collegiate members translate their Tri Delta experience into high-demand, transferrable skills through the Life After College program;
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• To teaching collegians and alumnae how to negotiate competitive salaries and benefits through the AAUW Start Smart and Work Smart workshops; • To offering online, on-demand professional development opportunities via LEADDDer.org, Tri Delta is committed to helping our members better their best at every stage and phase of life.
I’d like to personally invite you to join us for our newest opportunity, the LEADDD Keynote Series. Join us on the third “Tri Delta Tuesday” of each month for dynamic speakers and powerful conversations designed to inspire and empower. Best of all, it’s completely free! See p. 42 for details and join us for our next LEADDD Keynote on Tuesday, Nov. 16.
Finally, save the date for our in-person LEADDD conference and networking event on Friday, June 24, 2022, immediately preceding Tri Delta’s 60th Biennial Convention. Read more about the events to be held in sunny San DDDiego on p. 10. Hope to see you there! Delta Love,
Karen Hughes White, Georgia CEO
Tri Talk
Read all about it in The Trident online
Social media spotlight
You don’t have to wait until next fall’s printed Trident magazine arrives in your mailbox to get the latest news from Tri Delta. Now you can read new stories from The Trident anytime, on any device at tridelta.org/trident. Find timely news, upcoming and recent events, stories of sisterhood and more—ready for you to read and instantly share with your sisters and friends. Check out these stories:
“COVID: One Year Later” As we marked a full year since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Tri Deltas shared how the pandemic has affected their lives, what they’ve learned through the experience and how Tri Delta has been there to support them through it all.
“Delta Destinations: Taking Back Travel in 2021” We asked several Tri Delta travel experts why people have missed traveling over the last year, and the answer was clear: Travel helps us build connections and make memories—especially with our Tri Delta sisters and loved ones. Read what they had to share about travel in 2021.
OutstanDDDing Deltas One of our newest online features recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of our brave, bold and kind members.
In Memoriam Now published monthly, In Memoriam highlights the lives of some of our Distinguished Deltas and longtime volunteers and shares a full list of sisters who have recently passed away. And we still regularly publish all of the favorites from our print magazine, including collegiate and alumnae news, volunteer spotlights, Tri Delta ReaDDDs, archives stories and more!
Tri Delta for CHLA launches new website Tri Delta for Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, created by Tri Delta alumnae in Southern California who have fundraised for and supported CHLA for more than 70 years, launched a new website this summer. Take a look at the site and the great work they are doing to support pediatric cancer and blood disease research: tridelta4chla.org.
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Founders’ Day Proclamation
Dear Sisters,
One hundred thirty-three years ago,Tri Delta’s Founders came together to create something distinctive, something dynamic and something worthy of the best that resides in each of us. They were stepping into the unknown and building something new as women who had not felt welcomed or included in other organizations at the time. They were trailblazers dedicated to creating a unique space for women as a “society that would be kind alike to all, and would think more of a woman’s inner character than her outward appearance or personal circumstance.” Those words ring as true and powerful today as they did in 1888. As I look at the opportunities and challenges facing Tri Delta today, there is so much we can lean on for inspiration from our Founders. The world has changed tremendously in the last 18 months as we endured a global pandemic and gained new awareness around the complex issues of diversity, equity and inclusion. We responded to those changes and challenges collectively as Tri Delta and as individuals. We learned that women have been disproportionately impacted on both of these fronts and as a sisterhood centered on kindness, we feel a tremendous responsibility to address these challenges and to ensure all women who share our values feel included, welcomed and supported in Tri Delta. As I look toward the future, I believe maintaining a growth mindset will be vital to our ongoing success—both as we address the effects of the pandemic and work to fight for equity and inclusion... And against racism. By embracing a growth mindset, we allow challenges to be a springboard for growth and to expand our existing knowledge and abilities.
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Luckily, we don’t have to look very far for examples of growth mindset. Our brave, bold and kind Founders were also avid learners and innovators. Sarah Ida Shaw was an entrepreneur and launched a professional consulting business at the turn of the century! A catalyst in the Greek world, her business, the Sorority Service Bureau, helped several of our sister and brother organizations get started. Eleanor Dorcas Pond was a doctor. Isabel Morgan Breed was a teacher and community leader and Florence Isabelle Stewart was a teacher and investor. Not only were these women blazing trails, they were also leaving an important legacy for those of us who would follow. A legacy of growth and development in the pursuit of excellence, innovation and change. In addition to embracing these values in their personal and professional lives, they ensured these themes of lifelong learning, growth and development were carefully woven through our beautiful Ritual in the words, legends and symbols that provide the foundation of our sisterhood. Sarah, Eleanor, Florence and Isabel intentionally left us with the concepts of self-knowledge, self-reverence and self-control—all aimed at mastering a life that takes us to a place of our “greatest self-development.” Each of our symbols and the legends behind them contain ideas and concepts centered on growth. The pearl, symbolic of inner growth, is formed from layers of development over time. The pine, which stands tall and deeply rooted, is always reaching upward toward the sky. And the pansy—a flowering plant known to reseed itself over and over again—reminds us there is always the opportunity for new growth and new life.
With support from donors to Tri Delta’s Foundation, members can now learn online through LEADDDer.org and explore carefully curated courses designed to help build leadership skills, communication skills and a strong foundation in diversity, equity and inclusion. New this fall, members can attend LEADDD Keynotes every month—at no charge—and hear from dynamic women and leaders—authors, coaches, mental health experts and more! And learning opportunities abound—as always—in The Trident. First published in 1893, The Trident, available annually in print, is now offered fully online! And don’t miss the powerful interviews and expert advice offered on our Let’s Talk Tri Delta podcast. A stand-out in the last year in terms of learning and development has been our LEADDD Now Conversations, in which we've listened and learned from the lived experience of our Sisters of Color. We continue to make new resources available to our members on our LEADDD Now webpage, which I encourage you to visit. It has never been easier—or perhaps, more important—to continue to learn, grow and develop, just as our Founders did... And as they hoped we would when we followed in their footsteps. Many thanks to all of you who support Tri Delta’s Foundation AND for all of you who actively support Tri Delta by paying your annual dues. YOU help power these important learning opportunities for all of our members! Tri Delta’s history shows that we have always taken seriously the calling to learn and grow. In 1938, Fraternity President Ernestine Block Grigsby spoke at Tri Delta’s biennial Convention about Tri Delta’s reputation among Greek organizations as a leader on vocational education. Ernestine’s words remain true more than 75 years later as Tri Delta continues to lead the way by providing our members outstanding opportunities for growth and development. From internal growth reflected in the pearl to leadership skills depicted by the pine to the constant reinvention of the pansy, Tri Delta is here to travel with you throughout your lifelong journey toward self-knowledge, self-reverence and self-control. As I think about the ways in which Tri Delta has continued to embrace change as an organization and has centered innovation, I’d like to think that Ernestine and our Founders would be very proud of how we’re assisting our members in every possible way and helping them better their best.
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So, as we reflect back on 133 years this Founders’ Day, Tri Delta would like to thank you and invite you to lean on us as you lean in and learn. Thank you for continuing to pour into our sisterhood and support our important work of educating and empowering women throughout their lifetime. Please join us as we live into the spirit of our Founders by setting aside time to invest in yourself. Learn something new. Live into your dreams. And dream big like they did! Remember, Tri Delta will be here to support you—cheering you on and surrounding you with steadfast love! Happy Founders’ Day, Tri Deltas! Delta Love,
Megan Shaw James, Millsaps Fraternity President
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TRI DELTA’S COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION
Tri Delta’s LEADDD Now work is guided by a comprehensive action plan designed to address diversity, equity and inclusion. We are happy to share our progress as of October 2021, as we continue to create an equitable and inclusive lifetime membership experience for our Black, Indigenous and Sisters of Color. BRAVE | IDENTIFY & DISMANTLE RACISM
COMPLETE
• Introduce LEADDD Now Business Resolution for consideration and adoption at Tri Delta's 59th Convention. If adopted, the resolution will be assigned to the 2020-22 Executive Board for follow-up and action. • Introduce Amendments to the Bylaws of Delta Delta Delta to expand the size of the Executive Board by two Directors effective August 1, 2020. The Leadership Development Committee will identify and recommend Black, Indigenous and Sisters of Color to fill the new Director roles. • Establish mechanism for members to share ideas and perspectives. • Create a new national volunteer and chapter officer structure to support diversity, equity and inclusion efforts and initiatives. • Eliminate chapter-level legacy policies in recruitment. • Conduct an organization-wide diversity audit with an outside consultant to further inform the LEADDD Now plan.
IN PROGRESS • Share the results of the organization-wide diversity audit and update the LEADDD Now plan based on the audit findings and recommendations. • Review Tri Delta's Obligations of Membership to ensure equity and inclusion for all members, notably our Black, Indigenous and Sisters of Color. • Create a new national volunteer and chapter officer structure (chapter structure is complete) to support diversity, equity and inclusion efforts and initiatives. • Review and formalize our Extension Philosophy for chapters at colleges and universities with more diverse student populations. • Continue work on expanding pathways to membership including alumnae initiation and the possibility of extension at community colleges. • Ensure a diverse representation of members in our volunteer roles. • Expand the Honor Initiate program as an opportunity to bring diverse women into membership in Tri Delta.
ONGOING • Ensure a diverse representation of members in the speakers, workshop leaders and facilitators at Tri Delta events (beyond DEI presenters). • Ensure a diverse representation of members on all marketing and communications platforms. • Renew focus on diversity, equity and inclusion in recruitment and hiring. • Conduct a marketing and messaging audit to ensure equity and inclusion across all of Tri Delta's communications platforms.
BOLD | PROMOTE EDUCATION, UNDERSTANDING & HEALING
COMPLETE
• • • • • • •
Incorporate diversity, equity and inclusion content into the LEADDD Online event on July 10, 2020. Partner with Tri Delta's Foundation to develop diversity, equity and inclusion educational programming for collegiate and alumnae chapters. Brave & Bold Dialogues is available on LEADDDer.org to all Tri Delta members. Stream a series of LEADDD Now conversations with Black, Indigenous and Sisters of Color for the purpose of amplifying their voices and sharing their perspective broadly with our membership. Incorporate diversity, equity and inclusion education into national volunteer training. Establish a partnership with the National Civil Rights Museum to promote education. Provide Executive Office staff DEI training including Brave & Bold Dialogues, Identity and Privilege workshop and pronoun education. House Director DEI training. Establish affinity groups for Black, Indigenous and Sisters of Color on social media and CONNECTDDD.
IN PROGRESS • • •
Identify ways to acknowledge the Indigenous lands where Tri Delta owns or operates homes or lodges for our chapters. Continue to reflect on and refine Tri Delta's non-discrimination policy and key organizational philosophies. Assess whether a land acknowledgement statement should be created for Tri Delta facilities and seek guidance on the best practices for this process.
ONGOING • • •
Conduct listening sessions to gain insight and perspective from Black, Indigenous and Sisters of Color. Incorporate additional diversity, equity and inclusion courses into Tri Delta's new online learning platform, LEADDDer.org in August 2020. Incorporate diversity, equity and inclusion training into Tri Delta events such as Collegiate Leadership Conference, Volunteer Leadership Conference and LEADDD.
TO DO • Continue to invest in Mental Health education and programming with an emphasis on supporting our Black, Indigenous and Sisters of Color.
KIND | FIGHT FOR EQUITY & JUSTICE COMPLETE • With an eye toward member recruitment, retention, diversity, equity and inclusion, Tri Delta’s Executive Board has approved a number of interim amendments to the Fraternity Bylaws to allow for lower dues/fees and expanded payment plan options for our collegiate members in 2021-22 and beyond.
IN PROGRESS
• Partner with Tri Delta's Foundation to explore opportunities specifically aimed at supporting individual Black, Indigenous and Sisters of Color across the Foundation's key service areas - academic scholarships and needs-based assistance. • Create interior signage in Tri Delta properties that provides access to differently abled Tri Delta members and guests. ONGOING • • •
Establish campus partnerships with Black student, NPHC and multi-cultural organizations to create safe spaces to amplify the voices of Black, Indigenous and People of Color, and providing campus or community service. Define accountability around these efforts, measure progress and report regularly to Tri Delta's membership. Support and engage actively in National Panhellenic Conference efforts and initiatives related to diversity, equity and inclusion, specifically in the areas of recruitment and extension.
TO DO • Develop a diversity, equity and inclusion educational program customized for sorority women that can be shared with NPC sister organizations. • Partner with our host institutions to provide broad-based diversity, equity and inclusion education. For more information on our LEADDD Now efforts go to tridelta.org/our-story/leaddd-now.
You’re invited to the first gathering of Tri Delta alumnae and collegians since July 2018! Friday, June 24 – Sunday, June 26, 2022 Come early or stay late—make it a Delta Destination vacation. Watch for registration opening soon! 10
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LEADDD San Diego Tri Delta’s one-day professional development conference, created by women for women, is back in person! • Dynamic keynotes • Engaging workshops • Connecting with hundreds of women from across North America Take your skills and your network to the next level at LEADDD San Diego.
60th Biennial Convention Make San DDDiego your Delta Destination for summer 2022! Gather your sisters and join us for: • Opening party at the San Diego Zoo! (Bring your family) • Tri Delta Today update from Fraternity President Megan Shaw James • Alumnae & Volunteer Awards • Milestone Ceremonies • Our beautiful Ritual • Tri Delta’s biennial business meeting
• Installation of our 2022-2024 leaders
Stay up to date with all the latest at tridelta.org/events.
Tri Delta Today
Celebrating Tri Deltas Who Lead, Inspire and Empower This year, Tri Delta honored and celebrated true trailblazers who embody Tri Delta’s values as they lead on their campus, in their communities and in their careers, inspiring and empowering others worldwide. These brave, bold and kind sisters were honored with our 2021 Sarah Ida Shaw and Women of Achievement awards. 2021 Sarah Ida Shaw Award Winner Caroline Doyle, Oregon During our virtual Collegiate Leadership Conference, Tri Delta introduced our 2021 Sarah Ida Shaw Award Winner, Caroline Doyle. “Caroline has never settled for the mediocre, both for herself and her fellow members,” shared her alumna advisor. “As an officer, she has continued to excel in her academics (in a very difficult major nonetheless) and has not only shown members that it is possible to succeed but helped them make it a reality. As VPCD and chapter president, she was diligent about her weekly ‘watch list,’ making sure she was not letting any members slip through the cracks. She went above and beyond her expected duties and would reach out, call, meet up and tutor members who were struggling personally or academically.” As president of Theta Delta Chapter, Caroline met the challenges of leading during the pandemic, while also ensuring her sisters felt cared for. At a time when many questioned the value of sorority life, Caroline helped them see the benefits of this community and all the ways they could still engage and stay connected from a distance. In her acceptance speech, Caroline reflected that “Tri Delta gives us the ability to understand the incredible dichotomy that is life. This is the idea that the good and the bad times are equally important and equally beautiful, and that by remaining steadfast within our values of truth, selfsacrifice and friendship, we can flourish through it all.” Caroline is now serving Tri Delta as a 2021-22 chapter development consultant. Congratulations to Caroline for her truly unselfish leadership and to Sarah Ida Shaw Award runners-up, McKenna LeVitt, Nevada, and Madison Brandt, Wyoming. Read more about McKenna and Madison, and see a full list of nominees, at tridelta.org/trident. 12
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Our 2021 Women of Achievement There was no better way to celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8 than by honoring Tri Delta’s three Women of Achievement: Kara Barnett, Duke, Carol Hallett, Oregon, and Gayle JenningsO’Byrne, Pennsylvania. All three have led the way through male-dominated fields. They have inspired others throughout their careers, and have set the standard in their diverse fields of the arts, government and business. Tri Delta is proud to share their stories and trailblazing accomplishments, as they continue to focus on how their work, lives and legacies empower generations to come.
Kara Barnett, Duke Arts Leader – Innovator – Producer Kara Medoff Barnett was appointed Executive Director of American Ballet Theatre, America’s National Ballet Company, in February 2016 following nearly nine years as a senior executive at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. At ABT, Kara has advanced innovation and inclusion, supporting a robust slate of new productions and increasing diversity in the training pipeline. During her tenure at Lincoln Center, Kara served as Director of Strategy and Business Development and Senior Director of the Capital Campaign for the transformative redevelopment of Lincoln Center’s iconic 16-acre campus. In 2012, she became the founding Managing Director of Lincoln Center International (LCI), established to extend Lincoln Center’s brand, facilitate artistic exchange, and advise government leaders, philanthropists, and developers on the planning and management of cultural infrastructure projects around the globe. Under Kara’s leadership, LCI launched the Lincoln Center Global
Exchange, an annual conference for international leaders and change agents to advance the role of art and culture in addressing critical challenges facing our collective future. “One thing I loved about my Tri Delta experience was the camaraderie across ages and stages,” says Kara. “It’s easy to find friendship in the university setting in your class, but to get to know women who are 1, 2 or 3 years ahead of you on that journey who are willing to share perspective, knowledge, wisdom, advice … that I found so helpful. That idea of mentorship is one that continues to be very much a part of my career and my life.”
Carol Hallett, Oregon Aviation Industry Leader – Trusted Advisor – Elected Official Carol serves as counselor to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. She served for eight years as president and CEO of the Air Transport Association of America (now Airlines for America or “A4A”), which represents the chief executive officers of U.S. and foreign flag airline and cargo carriers. Following 9/11, Carol helped craft and pass legislation to save the domestic aviation industry from bankruptcy and took the lead in the redesign of airline security policies and practices. She was twice named to “The Business Travel Industry’s 25 Most Influential Executives.” Her areas of expertise include international trade and commercial aviation issues. She also has years of government experience. President George H.W. Bush appointed her commissioner of the United States Customs Service which oversaw the processing of more than 1.3 million passengers daily and $1 trillion worth of merchandise annually. Carol was U.S. Ambassador to the Commonwealth of the Bahamas under President Ronald Reagan.
women to do something special,” says Carol. “No matter what you do in life, do it knowing that it can make a difference.”
Gayle Jennings-O’Byrne, Pennsylvania Changemaker – Investor – Champion Gayle Jennings-O’Byrne is an African American venture capitalist who co-founded the WOCstar Fund, an early-stage investment fund that invests in tech companies led by women of color entrepreneurs (“WOCstars”) and diverse, inclusive teams. Gayle (pronounced: Gay-lä) takes a unique builder capital approach to helping entrepreneurs scale and grow to success, while working with investors and allies to participate in the innovation, wealth and success being built. She hosts VCs off the Record, a podcast for both entrepreneurs and investors that provides real talk by real investors. With more than 30 years of Wall Street, technology, philanthropy, training and professional speaking experience, she is unique in her global experience and knowledge and one among few African American women to start a venture capital firm. Gayle is a highly sought-out content expert in matters of innovation, tech trends, finance, investing and entrepreneurship. Reflecting on her Tri Delta experience, Gayle shares, “Dr. Maya Angelou said, ‘People will forget what you said; people will forget what you did; but people will never forget how you made them feel.’ For me that is really the essence of what Tri Delta means to me because I was this young girl in California coming to the East Coast to this big campus in Philadelphia, and Tri Delta made me feel like I had a community and family. And that feeling stays with me.”
See More Award Winners Online
In addition, she was an assemblywoman representing San Luis Obispo, Monterey and Santa Barbara counties and served as minority leader of the California State Assembly. From 2001 to 2006, Carol served on the CIA director’s National Security Advisory Panel.
We love recognizing and celebrating our outstanDDDing members, volunteers and chapters! As part of Tri Delta’s virtual Volunteer Leadership Conference in July, we honored and celebrated several dedicated members and chapters for serving with excellence. Read about the 2021 Volunteer and Alumnae Award winners online at tridelta.org/trident.
“Because I’ve been so fortunate to have done so many different things, it’s a responsibility to help, encourage and support young
You can also find a complete collection of our Distinguished Deltas and Women of Achievement at tridelta.org/distinguished-deltas.
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Kind Alike to All
Stars & Crescent Society The 206 members of this year’s Stars & Crescent Society invested in our sisterhood with a generous donation of $1,000 or more to the 2020-21 Annual Fund of Tri Delta’s Foundation, to provide the transformational programming, scholarships and emergency financial assistance that empower our sisters for a lifetime. Tri Delta would like to recognize these members with a heartfelt thank you! We are sisters helping helping sisters! Mary Estelle Kanning Amberg, Minnesota Carolyn McIntyre Andersen, Iowa State Barbie Anderson-Gonzalez, Puget Sound Foundation Anonymous Donors Laurie Dionne Babcock, Maine Susan Pound Bagby, Texas Donna Kirkconnell Bailey, Florida State Judith Barth, Cornell Joyce Bartlomain, California/Irvine Lori Sims Baxter, Auburn Susan Wells Beard, Kentucky Marilyn Biggerstaff, Baker Hayden Haddad Bishop, Ball State Jenny Parrish Black, South Florida Tracie Pendleton Blaser, Tennessee Crystal White Blaylock, Cal State/Long Beach Sandy Bossert Boyles, Georgia Diane Thompson Brewer, Kansas Bobbe Chaback Bridge, Washington Erin Brinkman, Mississippi State Barbara Peterson Bull, Colorado State Beth Burkes, Wake Forest Kim David Campbell, Oklahoma Harryette Campbell, Missouri Vicki Vinson Cantwell, Texas Christian The David & Stephanie Carmany Family Foundation Dr. Susan Chambers, Southern Methodist Anna B. Chambers Lynne Noetzel Charbonneau, Georgia Mary Gross Cherry, Louisiana/Lafayette Bette Carlson Chwalisz, Illinois State Laura Hamilton Cole, Valparaiso Marianne Cooley, Oklahoma State Stacey Dickenson Cox, Southern Methodist Kappi Kalberer Craddock, Mississippi Betty Jane Benson Creelman, Rhode Island Susan Light Crenshaw, Texas Christian Dallas AC Cookies & Castles Joanne Stevens Dalton, New Mexico LuAnn Riegl Daniel, Villanova Lisa Noe Deane, Louisiana State Ann Dettwiler, Butler Lisa Diskin, Toledo Jill Fischer Dominguez, Florida State Cathy Groh Donnellan, Florida Lori Hammons Doran, Oklahoma Karen Cato Doran, Duke Julie Coffman Doss, Texas A&M Steph Caron Drewnowski, Washington State Nancy McKinley East, Kentucky Sharon Carroll Eklund, Northwestern Jana Blythe Elkins, Kansas State Normita Ellis Error, Oregon State Kay Cleveland Evans, Southern Mississippi Diane Harwich Falconer, California/Berkeley Lisa Farrell, Arizona State Jane Davis Ferger, Denison Marcia Rodwell Ficeli, Iowa
Agnes Sapa Foos, Cal State/Northridge Kristi Smith Francis, Southern Methodist Trebie Perry Francisco, Texas Joan Faessel Gardner, Southern California Cathleen Garman, Wisconsin Sally Marshall Gepp, Texas Betty Stevenson Gibson, Idaho Julia Cobey Gluck, Maryland Katy Englehart Goodwin, Denison Janice Kamps Greenwald, Coe Nancy McDonald Griggs, Florida State Emily Bourne Grigsby, Vanderbilt Janet Lillegren Gustafson, Wisconsin Susan Foster Haigler, Alabama Debbie Batson Haile, Florida State Barbara Bjorn Hamor, Ohio State Dottie Wilkinson Hankins, Auburn Kimberly & Chris Hansen Meade Hartfield, Mississippi State Lisa Lalande Heath, Louisiana State Carol Knoche Helmus, Millikin Kelly Spicer Hernandez, Texas/Arlington Julie Johnson Hight, Northern Arizona Tina Boettcher Hollingsworth Bullitt, Southwestern Natalie Pohl Horlock, Texas Tech Kristi Anderson Horner, Denison Col. Patricia Fagan Huber, Nevada Rachel Huenefeld, Louisiana State Nicole Hughes, Washington State Chrys Grafrath Hyde, Coe Elizabeth Roob Ireland, Wisconsin Joyce Taylor Jackson, Butler Rebecca Jackson, Stephen F. Austin Mary Anne Coleman Jackson-Trumbull, Florida State Elise Crotty James, Iowa Megan Shaw James, Millsaps Janie Hicks Jeter, Emory Leah Clelland Jochim, Ottawa Deborah Johnson, Nevada Dr. Levester Johnson Clare Tarver Jones, Emory Joan Kalmanek, Illinois Susan Cory Kase, William & Mary Jenny Wight Keil, Michigan Suzy Keller, California/Los Angeles Kendra Scott LLC Ashley Crabtree Kozel, Southern Methodist Mona Breed Kozlevcar, Emory Dawnell Dean Lamb, Washington Shay McFarland Lamelas, Florida State Kim Lampman, Oklahoma State Anne Pryser Leary, Southern Methodist Kristin Lee, Iowa Kristine Kaufman Lewis, Wake Forest Mary Ann Shriner Lillie, Iowa State Sandy Beach Lin, Toledo The Betty R. Lindner Foundation Allison Clyde Lodovic, Oklahoma Julie Ray Lopez, Illinois Mary White Lott, Oklahoma State Karen Franta Love, Southwestern Eileen Murtagh Lueder, Adelphi Lynch Creek Farm Wendy Miles Malaspina, Clemson Sue Malmberg, Simpson Rachel Leimbach Maus, Illinois Regina Stamm Miano, Brenau Milly Bland Miller, Maryland Janet Timmerman Miller, Toledo Maribess Lehmann Miller, Texas Christian Mary Bauer Mims, Adelphi Stephanie McLemore Morris, Arkansas Helen Fortino Morse, Wichita State Sally Estill Muhlbach, Texas Christian
Lee Lewis Munson, Louisiana State Linda Stinnett Musfeldt, Jacksonville Carolyn Meek Nelson, Arkansas Jenni Stork Oaks, Baylor Jeanette Bohall O'Connor, Jacksonville Mary Kay Linzell Palmer, Ohio State Janice Parker, Boston Karen Metzger Parry, Colorado Diane Petersen, MD, Ohio Wesleyan Carolyn Liska Pierce, Minnesota Robbie Robertson Pinkerton, Southern Mississippi Amy Shaffer Putnam, New Mexico Colleen McKim Ragland, Northern Arizona Lillian Rydel Reed, Simpson Kathleen Jones Reid, Charleston Nancy Reisher, Colorado Gaby Jackson Renstrom, California/Davis Jan Erni Richeson, Kansas State Marcia Rinkel, Kansas State Kristen Busby Roberts, Southern Methodist Kari Dunham Rosson, Oregon State Katherine Bush Ruberton, Missouri Janet Hansen Schilling, Nebraska Nathalie Podrabsky Schmicker, Wisconsin William & Natalie Schmicker Connie Huber Schmidt, Toledo Loretta Lisowski Scutta, West Virginia Jamie Fritch Seedig, Texas A&M Linda Whitbeck Sharp, Washington State Barbara Brewer Sheldon, Southwestern Michelle Popp Shimberg, Florida Nancy Quinn Shovlain, Wyoming Jeanne Wilkinson Shuler, William & Mary Nancy Mueller Sims, Illinois Laura Smith, Missouri Linda Becker Smith, Rhodes Ginger Hicks Smith, Emory Jean Smith Snodgrass, Southern Methodist Sandie Wood Spain, Mississippi Pamela Williams Stearns, California/Los Angeles Mary Martha Gibson Stinnett, Southern Methodist Faye Alexander Stockard, Alabama Sharon Snider Stupp, Millikin Amanda Williams Subjinski, Texas/Arlington Scott & Michele Sullivan Pamela Berra Swafford, Knox Tina Neinstedt Sweet, Utah Anne Zweifel Taylor, Knox Nancy Moore Taylor, Toledo Susanne Richardson Teel, Baker Courtney Pike Templin, Spring Hill Heidi E. Tester, Michigan State Barbara Derr Thomas, Texas A&M Joyce Neaderhiser Thompson, Kansas Betti Belardi Tiner, Texas Tech Leslie Campbell Tubbs, Washington Jody Turin, Michigan Susan Sharp Vaughan, Oklahoma Nina Vitagliano, New Mexico Dr. Nancy Guinn Vitola, Texas April Mathis Voris, Alabama Susanne Wasson, Oklahoma State Rebecca Wynn Weiler, Rhodes Cathy Miller Wells, Transylvania Karen Hughes White, Georgia Lora Snow White, Puget Sound Rise LeBlanc Wilson, Cornell Lois Nichols Wilson, Arkansas Christine Caputo Winn, Furman Mary Ann Heyser Wright, William & Mary Katie Wharton Wylie, Colorado Gwenn Smith Wynn, Auburn Amy Zimmer, Southern Methodist Marlene Jackson Zoffel, Washington *Reflects donor giving 8/1/20 – 7/31/21
Join us for Kindness Week
Tri Delta’s second annual Kindness Week, November 7 - 14, will kick off with our virtual International Founders’ Day Celebration and end with Tri Delta’s Day of Giving! Join us in spreading kindness and celebrating sisterhood all week long. For information on how to register for each event, visit tridelta.org/events.
Sunday, Nov. 7
Monday, Nov. 8
Tuesday, Nov. 9
International Founders’ Day Celebration
International Chapter Meeting
Tri Delta Tuesday
Join sisters from across the globe at our virtual Founders’ Day Celebration. Welcome a new group of sisters through our Ritual, participate in our Roll Call and Candle Lighting Ceremony, and hear a special update from Fraternity President Megan Shaw James, Millsaps. Attend individually or watch as a group with your sisters. Add your chapter’s Founders’ Day event on CONNECTDDD.org/events.
All collegiate chapters are invited to join us virtually for our International Chapter Meeting. We look forward to spending time with our collegiate sisters!
Wednesday, Nov. 10
Thursday, Nov. 11
Friday, Nov. 12
Wear Your Letters Wednesday
Day of Giving Ambassador Rally
Tri Delta‘s Day of Giving
Get together virtually on the eve of our Day of Giving with other Day of Giving Ambassadors for our fun, energizing rally! Are you an Ambassador yet? It's the easiest one-day volunteer role you'll ever have! Scan this code now:
We’re celebrating World Kindness Day a day early with Tri Delta’s Day of Giving. Learn more about how you can support our sisterhood through Day of Giving on page 16.
Show your Tri Delta pride by wearing your letters! Be sure to take a photo and tag us on social media using #WearYourLettersWednesday. Need new gear? Visit shoptridelta.com.
www.tridelta.org
Join us in celebrating everybody's favorite day of the week, #TriDeltaTuesday, by posting on social media and tagging us!
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Kind Alike to All
Celebrate World Kindness Day with Tri Delta’s Day of Giving his year, Tri Delta’s Foundation has assisted more than three times the number of sisters than last year—and donations made during Tri Delta’s Day of Giving 2020 helped make that possible. We were able to say yes to our sisters because YOU said yes! That’s why we’re hoping Friday, Nov. 12, 2021, will be a day unlike any other as we head into World Kindness Day. As an organization founded to be kind alike to all, it is the perfect time for Tri Delta’s Day of Giving! Celebrate with us—and share the joy that comes from sisters helping sisters. Tri Delta’s Foundation is the only organization that connects our nearly 250,000 members with ways to empower collegiate and alumnae women through transformational programs, scholarships and emergency financial support.
Investing in the Next Generation of Women
uate and graduate Tri Deltas. Our scholarship recipients are majoring in everything from accounting to business, medicine, agriculture and education. Anjaliya Sonnilal, Ottawa, was one of the 2021-2022 scholarship recipients. She’s a rising senior double majoring in chemical engineering and biochemistry. Even with a heavy academic course load, she still finds time to be a leader in her chapter. “I’m so grateful,” she said when she found out she had been awarded a scholarship. “It’s really inspiring to me because Tri Delta means the world to me. I’ve recently just been slated into the position of president for my chapter. … To be able to have this, to be able to share it with my chapter, to just push for growth is something I’m so lucky to have. I’m just so thankful.”
TRI DELTA DAY OF
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Sisters Helping Sisters
Sisters around the world are still facing devastatBy donating to Tri Delta’s ing personal losses related to COVID-19, natural Day of Giving, you’re investing in the next disasters, illness and more. generation of women— Tri Delta’s Foundation the next generation of provides emergency support for those sisters in Tri Deltas. Tri Delta’s 11.12.21 | TRIDELTA.ORG/DAYOFGIVING need: members facing an Foundation provides opportunities for continuous unforeseen crisis such as growth and development for all Tri Delta members, includa critical medical situation, job loss or life-changing event ing direct support for chapters through our mental health or elderly members with no support system. program, Behind Happy Faces; our Life After College Series; The COVID-19 pandemic hit one collegiate member’s family and important programming focused on healthy body image, sexual especially hard. Her father had to take a large pay cut due to assault and campus safety awareness. the pandemic, and her own paid internship fell through. She was struggling to pay rent and knew her father wasn’t in a situation Kennedy Nicholas, Millsaps, joined Tri Delta in fall 2020. As a new to be able to help. But with the support of her sisters, she was member, she participated in Tri Delta’s Not Anymore Program, able to apply for a Collegiate Crescent Fund grant and received which features modules on consent, sexual assault, dating enough to pay her rent for the summer. “It means so much to violence, bystander behavior and healthy relationships. have so many sisters willing to support me,” she said. “The things [Tri Delta] provided me, the tools, leadership and enSimilar versions of this story have played out in the lives of many couragement, are things I never expected before,” Kennedy shared collegians who will never forget that Tri Delta was there for them with fellow Millsaps sisters at a virtual Sisterhood Session. “These when they needed it the most. are tools we aren’t really given in high school and in school, and to show that they cared about us enough to provide something like Let’s come together to assist our members in every possible this. … It’s so helpful.” way through Tri Delta’s Foundation. Mark your calendar for Friday, Nov. 12, Tri Delta’s Day of Giving—kindness in action. Providing Need- and Merit-Based Scholarships Visit tridelta.org/dayofgiving for more information and to This year, Tri Delta’s Foundation awarded 173 need- and meritdonate on Day of Giving! based scholarships totaling more than $440,000 to undergrad-
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$60 million for St. Jude is in sight!
In 2014, we made a commitment to the patients and families of St. Jude. In true Tri Delta fashion, we are poised to meet our goal of raising $60 million in 10 years, two years ahead of schedule. Donate or fundraise to help us cross the finish line: stjude.org/tridelta
Art inspired by St. Jude patient Jonah ©2021 ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (EXPM-5405)
St. Jude patient Eleanor
Kind Alike to All
Planned Giving for Tri Delta's Future Carol Martello Lidiak, Pittsburgh Heritage Society Member town. The family didn’t have much, but Carol says, “We had what we needed, and life was pretty simple.” The first in her family to attend college, she thought she would attend a small school. But when the University of Pittsburgh offered her a full-tuition scholarship, she couldn’t turn it down. After receiving her Bachelor of Science degree in medical technology and a master’s degree in information science, Carol worked for the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center lab system for more than 30 years. As an alumna, she has remained involved in Tri Delta through the Pittsburgh South Suburban Alumnae Chapter and as a volunteer. Now retired, she and her husband have found time for golf, travel and volunteering for the horticulture department at Phipps Conservatory. “Tri Delta is still a part of me,” she says. “Our little alumnae lunch bunch was sidelined by COVID, but we hope to resume shortly. The alumnae experience is a beautiful thing proving that Tri Delta is forever!”
s the pandemic took hold, Carol Martello Lidiak, Pittsburgh, and her husband began to “put things in order.” They sold their home and moved into a continuing care community. As they thought more about their estate plans, they decided to name contingent beneficiaries for investments—including Tri Delta’s Foundation. Carol joined Tri Delta in 1965 at the University of Pittsburgh. She had grown up in a small Western Pennsylvania
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As someone who has experienced the lifetime sisterhood Tri Delta offers, Carol is also committed to ensuring that experience is available for future generations of sisters. Here’s what she shared about the importance of giving back through Tri Delta’s Foundation and the Heritage Society.
Why do you support Tri Delta’s Foundation? The Foundation is a part of our legacy. It’s all about sisters helping sisters through one’s entire life span.
Why is planned giving important to you? Naming contingent beneficiaries for our investments will provide seamless transfers of monies while avoiding probate. As I had mentioned, I was fortunate to receive funding for my tuition. Now I am in a position to pay this forward and assist others.
In what ways has Tri Delta impacted your life? Tri Delta gave me more than my “book education.” I became a part of the university community, took on leadership roles within the chapter, and learned to balance my life so that it included fun and sisterhood. I have lifetime friends from my chapter. Volunteering for the Fraternity was a wonderful experience that broadened my insight into what our organization can accomplish.
How do you hope to have an impact on your sisters through giving to Tri Delta’s Foundation? I named the Foundation as a beneficiary, earmarking the donation for the Crescent Fund. As we baby boomers are aging, I felt that someone might benefit from my donation. I also thought of those who have been impacted by more and more frequent environmental disasters and need assistance. Members who designate Tri Delta’s Foundation in their wills or estate plans are recognized as members of our Heritage Society. For information on giving to Tri Delta through your will or estate plan, please contact Tawnya Braeutigam at 817.471.1908 or tbraeutigam@trideltaeo.org.
Tri Delta's Heritage Society Almost 200 generous members have remembered Tri Delta in their wills or estate plans. They are recognized as members of our prestigious Heritage Society, sustaining our sisterhood for generations to come. Join us in celebrating these loyal and steadfast sisters. Elizabeth Gowans Ahrens, Michigan State Jennifer Daniels Amarnick, Jacksonville Mary Estelle Kanning Amberg, Minnesota Gail Anderson, Iowa State Marilyn Muldoon Arendt, New Mexico Gael Salter Baggett, Louisiana State Dorothy Coseboom Baker, Maryland Evalyn Torppa Baker, Idaho Roxanne Barnes, Southwestern Judith Barth, Cornell Erika Loen Beatty, Minnesota Maureen Laffey Bills, Cornell Bethany Blakey, Pittsburgh Crystal White Blaylock, Cal State/Long Beach Mary Gray Bolin, Louisiana State Debra Cikanek Borgeson, Illinois State Lynne Cellio Brown, Transylvania Annabelle Bugg, Kentucky Susan Butler Burdick, Florida State Beth Burkes, Wake Forest Tori Campbell, Wyoming Jeanne Carlson, Oregon Barbara Schutt Castano, Texas/Arlington Camille Clark, Michigan State Marilyn Kotter Clauder, Nevada Laura Hamilton Cole, Valparaiso Gayle Knight Colman, Auburn Marlene Lindell Cowan, Kansas State Stacey Dickenson Cox, Southern Methodist Michelle Cox, Kentucky Joanne Stevens Dalton, New Mexico LuAnn Riegl Daniel, Villanova Kelly Hyde Delattre, Florida State Athina Eslick Dever, Butler Nancy Devine, Minnesota Lisa Diskin, Toledo Isabelle Maye Donahey, Ohio State Lori Hammons Doran, Oklahoma Karen Cato Doran, Duke Diana Druley, Texas/El Paso Vivian Wilkinson Dunnaway, Arkansas Susan Pert Earley, Cincinnati Carolyn Mullenax Edwards, Tulsa Sharon Stelzer Ernst, Ohio State Molly Maloney Evangelisti, Nevada Roberta Messic Faigle, Syracuse Judy Mathes Faletti, Georgia Patricia Reynolds Farber, Cal State/Long Beach Jan Griffin Farrington, Mississippi Katy Feinberg, Ohio Wesleyan Georgianna Schuyler Fernandes, Cornell Adelaide Gonzalez Few, Randolph-Macon Angela Ficht, Cal State/Long Beach Diane McCarthy Fitzgerald, Arizona Agnes Sapa Foos, Cal State/Northridge Leslie Eisen Fort, Colorado State Heidi Frank, Arizona State Judi Johnson Freeman, Cal State/Northridge
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Ellen Quarterman Friedman, Pacific Jan Purdy Futhey, Ohio Wesleyan Polly McWherter Gast, Ohio State Mary Bayless Greenlee, Denison Nancy McDonald Griggs, Florida State Barbara Bock Guerra, Florida Tricia Halamandaris, California/Berkeley Susanna Currie Harper, Texas Nini Richardson Hart, Pacific Kat Hedrick, Emory Carol Knoche Helmus, Millikin Debbie Wahl Hembree, Georgia Pam Herring Hicks, Franklin Barbara Snyder Hinds, Texas Tamara Marinkovic Hines, Southern Methodist Kailey Holt, Idaho Cornelia Hoppe, Oregon Cora Peters Horger, Cal State/Long Beach Paula White Huffman, Pennsylvania State Nicole Hughes, Washington State Andi Hughes, Vanderbilt Debbie Drommerhausen Hutchings, Arizona State Chrys Grafrath Hyde, Coe Michelle Montalbano Ison, Wisconsin Rebecca Jackson, Stephen F. Austin Geneva Jahnke, New Mexico Jeanne Jamell, Arkansas Deborah Johnson, Nevada Darlene Dahl Jones, Washington Jennifer Ritter Kelly, Cornell Ellen Guion Kempner, Mississippi State Sandra Williams Krieger, Mississippi Marian Hummel Kurz, Miami/Ohio SueBeth Crockett Lain, Texas Tech Dawnell Dean Lamb, Washington Neilanne Parker Lange, Louisiana State Carol Martello Lidiak, Pittsburgh Mary Ann Shriner Lillie, Iowa State Mary White Lott, Oklahoma State Kelly Clarkson Loy, Oklahoma State Amie Young Lundquist, Maine Kelly Silata Maida, Texas Sue Malmberg, Simpson Carol Malouf, Southern California Mary Lynn Manning, Kansas State Deborah Daley Martin, Iowa Kathy Salisbury Massie, Minnesota Rhone Moore McCall, Southern Methodist Judith Nelson McCracken, Coe April Shannon McDonald, Florida Ann Marie Johnson McGee, Idaho Michele Stephens McGeeney, Texas Tech Kathryn Miller McKee, Kansas State Linda Wolf McLinden, Pittsburgh Mary Haley McWhorter, Tennessee Anne Parsons Michael, Minnesota Meredith Nye Moran, Kentucky Sharon Francis Nelson, Southern California Yvonne Gardner Newhouse, Ohio State Ginny Nicklas, Michigan Sara Bosi Nieto, Southern California Sherry Shrout Norton, West Virginia Linda Glascock O'Bryant, Missouri Tracy Schening Olinger, Iowa State Mary Kay Linzell Palmer, Ohio State Karen Metzger Parry, Colorado Diane Sharbo Paul, Iowa State Peggy Marshall Payne, Miami/Ohio Mary Hall Pickard, Butler Debbie Lawton Pickens, Florida State Judith McCutcheon Pownall, Toronto
Penny Purviance, Mount Union Kathy Ragan, Wyoming Becky Haas Ramsey, Syracuse Kim Newsom Ray, Oklahoma Cathleen Snider Raymer, Texas Christian Eve Woods Riley, Southern Methodist Marcia Rinkel, Kansas State Jane Chaffee Ripp, Wisconsin Jean Wiggin Roach, Texas Christian Christie Kokel Rodriguez, Millsaps Patricia Arthur Rouse, Colorado State Susan Abrahamson Routh, North Carolina Brooke Pearson Sanders, Arkansas J Kim Scholes, Tennessee Katherine Schultz, Oregon State Janet Schockey Schwarzentraub, Illinois State Jeri Sedlar, Michigan State Kelly Shacklett, California/Los Angeles Kate Davis Shasha, Wake Forest Sonja Wilkes Sheffield, Southern Mississippi Michelle Popp Shimberg, Florida Laura Simic, Oregon Ginger Hicks Smith, Emory Laura Smith, Missouri Arden Smith, Rhodes Lynn Zoll Smith, Michigan State Robyn Rever Smith, Mississippi State Sandie Wood Spain, Mississippi Dawn Sparling, Iowa Kathy Hamilton Steinwedell, William & Mary Jo-Anne Stenger, Florida Jackie Thurber Stenger, Puget Sound Laura Stenovec, Denver Judy Hutchison Stevenson, Florida Mary Martha Gibson Stinnett, Southern Methodist Christine Wilson Strom, Ohio State Margaret Sulkowski, Pennsylvania State Kimberlee Di Fede Sullivan, Pepperdine Ann Michele Shaffer Sweeney, Richmond Shirley Shull Tart, Texas Joyce McEwen Therkildsen, Iowa State Donna Burger Thoelecke, Colorado State Barbara Derr Thomas, Texas A&M Janet Tomlinson, Beloit Laura Shapiro Torrey, Florida Brenda Hester Towe, Oklahoma State Donna Maloy Tuscana, Texas/Arlington Sally Ulrich, Butler Joyce Krogen Ursin, Wisconsin Linda Vedane, Simpson Charlene Rulifson Voge, Pennsylvania State Nancie Clouser Waldron, Miami/Ohio Barbara Walters, Stetson Dr. Virginia Ward, Clemson Elizabeth Ware, Idaho Sally Watkins Ware, Louisiana/Lafayette Ann Clark Webb, Georgia Nancy Minert Weed, Simpson Rebecca Wynn Weiler, Rhodes Elizabeth Hankins Wendorff, Baker Karen Hughes White, Georgia Dr. Linda Garrett Whitson, Duke Karen Williams, Virginia Tech Kathy Kruger Wilson Ball State Rise LeBlanc Wilson, Cornell Peggy White Woods, Louisiana State Mary Ann Heyser Wright, William & Mary Lois Cone Wtulich, Syracuse Karla Yale, Northwestern Amy Zimmer, Southern Methodist Fall 2021 The Trident
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Kind Alike to All
Walking, Running and Rallying to Defeat Childhood Cancer On Sept. 25, during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, Tri Deltas laced up their walking shoes to support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital during the virtual St. Jude Walk/Run. And Team Tri Delta once again surpassed its Walk/Run goal of $150,000! s Tri Delta enters the final stretch toward meeting our latest $60 million pledge to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, this year’s Childhood Cancer Awareness Month was focused on helping us cross the fundraising finish line and supporting the kids of St. Jude. In 2014, Tri Delta made one of the largest pledges at the time to St. Jude, committing to raise $60 million over 10 years. In true Tri Delta fashion, we are poised to meet that goal two years early by July 2022!
No More Chemo, No More Cancer To kick off Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and to gear up for the St. Jude Walk/Run, St. Jude hosted a virtual No More Cancer Rally for Greek organizations across the country. When a St. Jude patient finishes chemotherapy, family, friends and the care team come together to celebrate with a No More Chemo Party. Through a St. Jude No More Cancer Rally, our members were also able to celebrate and—most important—raise money to make milestones like this possible! Tri Deltas came together with other fraternities and sororities, including Tau Kappa Epsilon (Teke) and members of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, who are partners in raising funds for St. Jude, for the two rally events held on Aug. 31 and Sept. 2. The rally included a series of challenges for attendees to help jumpstart their fundraising for the St. Jude Walk/Run. Participants posted to social media, texted, called and sent emails to friends and family asking for support for St. Jude.
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Lacing Up Our Walking Shoes Each year the St. Jude Walk/Run is one of Tri Delta’s biggest fundraisers. Last year was the first time St. Jude held its Walk/Run virtually, and despite the challenges of the pandemic Team Tri Delta ended up on top as the Walk/Run’s number one fundraiser. This year, the St. Jude Walk/Run was once again held virtually on Saturday, Sept. 25, and Team Tri Delta set a goal of raising $150,000, which we again exceeded! While the official event was virtual, alumnae chapters across the country hosted their own individual COVID-safe walks for members, meeting up at local parks, nature preserves and other scenic outdoor venues. The San Diego Alumnae Chapter planned a course around Mission Bay for their walk and raised $2,221, making them the #4 fundraising team in San Diego! In addition to the online fundraising, the alumnae group held a Chipotle fundraiser where proceeds from sales went to the overall fundraising total. The Southern Nevada Alumnae Chapter chose Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve as the location for their 3-mile walk, while the Phoenix Valley Alumnae Chapter met up at Steele Indian School Park for a group walk, followed by brunch at Windsor. Tri Delta Executive Office staff also got in on the fun, with staff members meeting up for a walk in Addison Circle Park, just down the street from Executive Office in Dallas, Texas. Tri Delta alumnae across Colorado came together to fundraise virtually, and to walk locally in person. In Denver, six Tri Deltas and one Chi Omega daughter
WASHINGTON, D.C.
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enjoyed a walk around Wash Park. The group saw other St. Jude supporters, including “Women at Amazon” who handed out snacks and water to park visitors—one was even a Tri Delta from Mississippi State! “We look forward to next year's walk where we can include more members and be part of the St. Jude education and festivities,” said Tori Campbell, Wyoming. The Denver Alumnae Chapter has a longtime commitment to childhood cancer research, including their ongoing donations to their endowment at Children's Hospital Colorado. The Fort Collins Alumnae Chapter also participated in the St. Jude Walk/Run as part of the Tri Delta Alumnae of Colorado team. “Initially we'd hoped to walk with other Colorado alumnae chapters as a team in Denver, but being virtual we opted for local chapter walks,” said Alumnae Chapter President Heidi Early, Knox. Fort Collins alumnae—along with a couple of furry friends!— walked at the local City Park and then enjoyed brunch at a local outdoor patio restaurant. Together, the Tri Delta Alumnae of Colorado team raised $1,150. Members of the Washington, D.C. Metro Alumnae Chapter also enjoyed a brunch with their walk. D.C. alumnae met up for a walking tour of Capitol Hill followed by a light brunch at Alumnae Chapter President Meghan Holland’s, Wofford, house. The chapter raised more than $4,000 for the Walk/Run!
“This is one of my favorite events of the year,” shared Meghan. “It was a beautiful day and a great way to spend a morning … with sisters and supporting the sweet kids at St. Jude.”
LAS VEGAS
“This is one of my favorite events of the year,” shared Meghan. “It was a beautiful day and a great way to spend a morning … with sisters and supporting the sweet kids at St. Jude.”
www.tridelta.org
DENVER
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When Julianna Fortis, Stockton, started her first semester of college, she was nervous and unsure of herself. A commuter student who lived nearby, she didn’t spend much time on campus. She attended classes, went to work and then came home. Her plan was to focus on academics for the next four years and just get through college. It wasn’t until her coworkers, who were involved in Greek life, encouraged her to join a sorority—that’s when she found a home in Tri Delta. Little did she know how much her Tri Delta experience would change her over the next two years, providing her with a self-confidence she never had before. “Before I joined Tri Delta, I remember feeling like I wasn’t willing to be myself all the time for everybody,” says Julianna. “In Tri Delta, it’s literally what we say: ‘Bring You.’” But more than a saying, Julianna experienced the full meaning of bringing herself to Tri Delta. “I don’t know how they did it, but they weren’t kidding,” she laughs. “Tri Delta has made me so much more comfortable in my own skin. I have so much more confidence in myself and my abilities.” Today, Julianna is not only leading Gamma Omega Chapter as collegiate chapter president, she’s also one of the collegiate representatives serving on Tri Delta’s Leadership Development Committee. These are roles she says she would have never considered were it not for her sisters seeing something in her she didn’t always recognize herself: “When I look at myself from my sisters’ eyes, it’s helps me realize that sometimes I don’t give myself enough credit,” she says. Julianna not only recognizes how much Tri Delta helped her settle into college life, and thrive there, she also recognizes all the ways the experience is preparing her for her next major life transition: graduating and starting a career.
“Especially for young women who are coming out of one of the more challenging times in life (high school)— you’re insecure in a completely new environment (college). You just need a support system. Tri Delta gives you the tools you need to succeed, not only in college, but after you graduate. It builds you up and prepares you the entire way.” She adds, “Tri Delta teaches us to be empowered … and this is definitely the most empowered I’ve ever felt.”
Delta = Change Julianna isn’t the only member with a story of transformational change through Tri Delta. These types of stories can be found everywhere in Tri Delta, as the organization focuses on shaping women into confident leaders: from
BY AMANDA MILFORD, TEXAS/ARLINGTON
www.tridelta.org Photo by Andy Vracin
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new members to collegiate chapter leaders; young alumnae just beginning their career to those who may be looking for a new career path; women who are reentering the workforce after stepping away to raise their family; women who have retired and who are dedicating their time to serving their community. At every stage and phase of life, Tri Delta is helping women find personal and professional growth as they become the best versions of themselves.
great leaders. “Tri Delta has recognized that for a long time and has always invested in our members to provide those leadership skills through different resources and programming,” she says. “As a women’s organization, it’s in our blood that we teach leadership. In some ways I don’t think we can help it.”
Bettering Your Best Since its founding, women have relied on Tri Delta for the development opportunities we weren’t receiving in maledominated college campuses and workplaces. Early Tri Delta programs included a focus on career training during a time when women weren’t commonly in the workforce. In an early precursor to what is now considered the informational interview, members who were trailblazers in traditionally male fields shared advice and information on their careers via The Trident so that other women could follow in their footsteps. (Read more about this and the early career training programs Tri Delta offered in our archives article on page 62.) Tri Delta’s commitment to growth and development is written in our Ritual and can be found in the meaning of our symbols: The letter Delta itself—as it’s used in science— means change. Each of our symbols also signifies change as it relates to growth: the pearl, which develops from a tiny grain of sand; the pine tree, which grows tall; and the pansy, which blooms and is known to reseed itself for new growth. It’s also written out in Tri Delta’s Purpose: “It shall be the Purpose of Delta Delta Delta to establish a perpetual bond of friendship among its members, to develop a stronger and more womanly character, to broaden the moral and intellectual life ...” “We say it right away,” says Executive Board Director Sandy Beach Lin, Toledo, who previously served as Chief Executive Officer of Calisolar Inc. (now Silicor Materials). “We’re here to help you grow in whatever way you want to grow … and, by the way, there’s a perpetual bond of friendship. It’s amazing that you get all these great wonderful things from being a member in terms of your own personal development, and you also have these lifelong friendships and bonds of sisterhood forever.” Christi Flynn, Washington, is a certified life coach and principal of Inspirata Coaching. She believes that women make
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While in the early days Tri Delta shared information on specific career paths and fields, through the years Tri Delta has evolved its programming to address the specific issues women of today face: issues like the gender pay gap, balancing a career with raising a family, dealing with imposter syndrome, and the importance of maintaining one’s mental health and wellness. Today’s development opportunities also focus on helping women reskill and upskill, not just while they’re in college, but throughout their lives and careers. Sandy shares, “When I was in college, we were just at the cusp of women stepping into college in a much bigger way by attending medical school, business school, law school. Now women are 50 percent of the undergraduate population. Our numbers alone, and our desire to have a seat at the table, means we have to develop women as leaders. There are so many great ways to do that through sororities. And the number of leadership opportunities, skills and training Tri Delta offers is second to none.”
Megan Meussner, Tulsa, runs her own nonprofit organization and volunteers for Tri Delta as a collegiate district officer (CDO). She has found the professional development opportunities Tri Delta offers not only useful in her training as a volunteer, but in her professional career as well.
“Nowadays professional development opportunities aren’t as easy to go participate in and be a part of—and many organizations aren’t offering that,” Megan says. “But I’ve found so many opportunities through Tri Delta, whether attending Convention, LEADDD, Volunteer Leadership Conference, or learning from LEADDDer.org—I’ve learned things I can apply to my own life and career.”
Collegians and alumnae alike can take advantage of the vast personal and professional development programs and opportunities that Tri Delta offers.
2. Earn a leadership certificate on LEADDDer.org No matter at what stage you are in your career or in your volunteer life, you can build your resume and your skills with Tri Delta’s on-demand courses on LEADDDer. org, including three leadership certificates: Leading Self, Leading Others and Leading Strategically. These multi-module courses—developed in partnership with leadership experts—can kickstart your personal and professional development.
LEADDDer.org is Tri Delta’s easy-to-use, online platform that offers dynamic learning and development opportunities, including exclusive personal and professional leadership content for all members.
“I’ve never seen modules so easy-to-understand and so engaging in an online platform,” says Megan. “It speaks to our organization, but does it in a way that you’re learning while you’re doing it.”
1. Pursue professional development with LEADDD In 2018, Tri Delta launched LEADDD, our professional development conference created by women, for women. Building on the success of LEADDD, Tri Delta now also offers a free virtual monthly series of dynamic keynotes, the first of which—a conversation with author and journalist Dana Perino—was held in September (for more on our LEADDD Keynote Series, see page 42). With LEADDD, we’re tackling topics relevant to women today, including financial literacy, building confidence, leveraging your personal brand and mentorship. Megan, who attended LEADDD in 2018, found the conference valuable in many ways: “I not only heard inspiring speakers and motivational insights, I also got to meet sisters from across the country. I had the best time in every aspect—not only learning, but networking is a big piece of it, too.”
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Julianna has also found tangible takeaways in Tri Delta’s online leadership courses. As collegiate chapter president, her chapter officers have all committed to completing not only the online modules required for their officer positions, but the additional leadership training offered as well. Julianna found the training on decision-making, delegation and communication particularly helpful.
“For me, personally, I can see communication being a weak spot,” says Julianna. “Especially in a virtual setting, things can easily get misconstrued. I want to make sure I’m doing my best to communicate with officers and members. The training helped me feel even more confident going into the fall semester.”
3. Gain the skills to negotiate your salary with AAUW salary negotiation workshops Tri Delta is boldly leading the way in addressing important issues such as gender equity and barriers women face in the workplace—including the gender pay gap. Studies performed by the American Association of University Women (AAUW) show that a gap exists at all levels of work in
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almost every occupation. It cuts across all demographics, widening for working mothers and more significantly for most women of color. Even just one year out of college, women are paid significantly less than men. This gap only grows larger over time, making it critical to empower our collegiate members and young alumnae as they begin their professional lives.
In partnership with AAUW, Tri Delta offers workshops designed to empower women with the skills and confidence needed to successfully negotiate their salary and benefits packages. “Start Smart” is geared towards recent graduates negotiating their first salary, while “Work Smart” helps those further along in their careers gain the confidence to negotiate raises and promotions.
Megan was able to arrange the Start Smart workshop for one of the chapters she advises. In her experience through her career she understands the importance of setting a strong foundation for salary negotiation early on. “For me, having had multiple roles of increasing levels of responsibilities and promotions—and now running my own nonprofit—I know how important it is to have that female empowerment of knowing what you’re worth and having the tools to negotiate,” she shares. “It’s especially important for collegiate members to learn how to have those conversations— which can be tricky—before they go for their first job so that they’re comfortable and confident in those conversations.”
4. Hear from member experts on our Let’s Talk Tri Delta Podcast Launched in 2019, the Let’s Talk Tri Delta podcast has become a rich source of personal and professional development information and advice. Through interviews with members and experts, women share their stories, experiences and life lessons on topics like career readiness, navigating our new normal during the pandemic, servant leadership, and DEI and cultural competence.
Much like how early Tri Delta members wrote and shared about their careers in The Trident, today’s Let’s Talk Tri Delta podcast gives our members the opportunity to share their experiences and expertise gained from their fields.
“We have members who are leaders in philanthropy, business, government and many other areas—it’s vast and in-
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credibly diverse in terms of life experiences and professions,” says Christi. “Tri Delta has done a good job of showcasing the amazing women we have and tapping into their experiences.”
Transferrable Skills The experience Tri Delta provides to its collegiate members is designed to help them prepare for life after college as they begin their careers. It’s an experience that can’t be found in other organizations. “Other clubs may give you an experience, but it’s nothing quite like this,” says Julianna. “Leading a Tri Delta chapter is equivalent to an internship. It’s real life preparation.” Julianna has already seen this play out in her current job. “Going through the application process for the Leadership Development Committee position made me so much more confident for interviewing,” she says. “I interviewed for a summer position in my hometown, and the confidence I had in how I presented myself, I credit to my Tri Delta experience.”
“Tri Delta teaches you so many valuable lessons: communication, organizational skills, collaboration. With how much you work together, you learn how to communicate with others and see things from different perspectives—it teaches you to have empathy. That’s taught me to have patience with myself and others in my current job, and it’s something that will help me a lot when I start my career.”
Kennedy Nicholas, Millsaps, joined Tri Delta last fall. Already she’s had the opportunity to focus on her own personal development in Tri Delta by participating in our educational programs, including Not Anymore, which covers consent, sexual assault, dating violence, bystander behavior and healthy relationships.
“The situations and experiences presented in the Not Anymore Program are things that are not talked about in schools or in the real world because society has labeled them as ‘taboo,’” says Kennedy. “This program has opened my eyes and granted me a level of clarity that I never would have gained at this age if not for the education Tri Delta has offered its members.”
Kennedy adds, “When it comes to my own personal growth, Tri Delta has taught me how to be more aware of not only myself and my feelings, but also my surroundings and the things going on with the people around me. I have learned how to be a better friend in the aspect of knowing when someone wants to know my opinion on something or whether they just need someone to listen to them.”
Lifelong Learning While Tri Delta’s collegiate chapter programming focuses on preparing its collegiate members for their careers, the membership experience doesn’t end in college—and neither does the development. Alumnae continue to lean on Tri Delta for growth throughout their lifetimes.
Sandy joined Tri Delta in 1977 and built her career through the sales and marketing functions, leading to general management roles and eventually serving as Chief Executive
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Officer of Calisolar Inc. (now Silicor Materials). Now retired, Sandy serves on the corporate boards of three public companies and is the co-chair of the Paradigm for Parity® coalition, which is focused on achieving gender parity in corporate leadership.
Sandy credits her success in the corporate world to the early leadership experiences Tri Delta provided her as a collegiate chapter officer. It was skills like problem-solving, critical thinking and talent development that she learned as a chapter officer that she was able to leverage in her journey up the corporate ladder.
Even today, Sandy continues to lean on Tri Delta for learning, growth and development through her volunteer role on the Executive Board. “That’s the beauty of being in an organization where you have 18,000 collegiate members—the
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Carrying Through to Our Communities Diversity, equity and inclusion has always been a place of passion for Board Director Jenni Stork Oaks, Baylor, but she didn’t always quite know how to enter into it.
That journey not only equipped Jenni to lead Tri Delta, but it also equipped her to make an impact in her own community. She has teamed up with three other women in her town to lead a group called Better Together with the objective to help other people build their cultural competence. Jenni has worked to create a starting point for discussing diversity, equity and inclusion and how to enter into healthy conversations on a difficult topic. “Just like we’ve been doing in Tri Delta,” she says.
In summer 2020, racial injustice became front and center after the murder of George Floyd and the protests that followed. “I looked around and so many people were feeling helpless,” Jenni says. “I was feeling empowered because of my role in Tri Delta, and I felt a responsibility to make an impact in my sphere of influence.”
The group helps people grow in their understanding by equipping and empowering them wherever they are in their journey and no matter their season of life or racial background. “We give them the tools and empower them to make a positive difference in our community,” says Jenni.
As a part of her Tri Delta Board role, Jenni took part in development centered on DEI, including reading books that had been recommended, engaging in important conversations that needed to be had and participating in training with Tri Delta’s partners at Culture Shift Team and through the Brave & Bold Dialogues course, which is offered to all Tri Delta members on LEADDDer.org.
Jenni says that she and her fellow Board members “needed to learn ourselves and start this journey of cultural competence in order to effectively lead our organization.”
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What Jenni discovered was how she could effect change through allyship, in her community and in Tri Delta. “My life does not outwardly demonstrate a lived experience of a Sister of Color,” she says. “But the passion I was able to find and give to my Tri Delta sisters, and now in my community, is allyship.”
For Jenni, it was special how the alignment of circumstances fell into place: “I was able to have Tri Delta pouring into me so that I was better equipped to lead in the space I’m serving. My growth and development was so profound that I was able to bring it back to my community.”
together on things like recruitment or philanthropy events. You learn how a group works together and can see how positive energy creates amazing results. You also learn when there’s not good leadership and negative energy, things don’t go well. You’re experiencing that firsthand, and it’s a powerful lesson.”
But what stuck the most was the idea of being a servant leader: “Being of service to somebody in a leadership role flips the script on leadership. It’s not about control. … It’s about creating community within your team and leading with humility. Those are lessons I’ve carried with me for 20 years now.”
Executive Board Director Jenni Stork Oaks, Baylor, stepped out of the workforce in 2014 to raise her children after a career with Accenture that included positions as a change management consultant and Chief of Staff to the North America CEO. But, over the last seven years, Jenni has found that her Tri Delta experience has well-positioned her for when she returns to the job market.
“When I said yes to serving on the Board five years ago, I was 100% prepared to bring my personal and professional experiences to the organization to make a difference. What I didn’t expect was the fact that I would be purposefully developed. My personal and professional growth in Tri Delta has been both intentional as well as a byproduct of the role I’m in.” collegians help us (alumnae and volunteer leaders) understand the change going on and our role in it. The experience of a collegiate member today is very different from when I joined. It’s a constant learning process.”
Just as Sandy’s career can be traced to her earliest Tri Delta experience, Christi sees a direct thread from what she learned in Tri Delta to her current work as a life coach, covering topics like leadership and resilience.
“Tri Delta was the foundation of my leadership experience,” she says. In the chapter she not only learned more about herself and her values, but she also learned things like group dynamics.
“It wasn’t a lesson somebody sat in front of me. It was the experience of being part of an organization and working
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Jenni says Tri Delta has helped her improve skills like collaboration, written and oral communication, engaging in crucial conversations and public speaking, and also helped her learn more about finance, operations, public relations, law and technology. She also credits the people she’s been surrounded by—her Tri Delta sisters—for helping her learn and grow.
“I always have something to learn from my sisters, whether it’s their tactical knowledge or the way in which they speak that’s effective,” she says.
“I have confidence that I’ll be more valuable when I go back into the job market seven years later because of my Tri Delta experience. My resume is stronger, my business acumen is stronger, and I have a confidence I didn’t have when
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I left the workforce that has been gained from Tri Delta. It has been truly transformational.”
Jenni points out that being a volunteer isn’t the only way to gain these experiences through Tri Delta. All alumnae can take advantage of the resources Tri Delta provides—whether through taking a leadership course on LEADDDer.org or attending a LEADDD keynote. Providing these opportunities for women throughout their careers “is what Tri Delta has been asked to do from the beginning,” Jenni says.
Growth and Development … With Purpose One thing that gives Tri Delta—and our members—an advantage over other organizations is how well we understand the importance of purpose, and how we translate that into the growth and development of our members.
“When an organization and people know their values, they can translate them into a more purposeful and passionate life that enables them to become leaders,” says Christi. “Tri Delta has always been good about staying true to our purpose as an organization, talking about it and showing that purpose in action. And it’s something I’ve learned, whether
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in a leadership workshop or through reading The Trident. Tri Delta gives you a great, living breathing example of how to be a better woman, and I’ve transferred that into my work on a daily basis.” In her experience in the corporate world, Sandy also observed how important purpose is to organizations. “Corporations are figuring out how important it is to cite their purpose. I think this distinguishes Tri Delta because we are so clear about it and have been from day one. It’s the guiding star over everything we do. We build everything around the Purpose, whether it’s our LEADDD sessions or LEADDD Now—we want to be the first out there for positive change.”
Along with the clarity of Purpose that Tri Delta offers our members, we also provide something else unique to our organization: the opportunity to grow alongside other women with shared values.
“You can go to a business conference where you sit with strangers,” says Jenni. “They may be lovely, but they’re not people you have a shared experience with like our sisterhood. When you choose to engage in growth and development in Tri Delta, you’re doing so from a starting point of already having something in common with these people. We already get each other because of the values we share. … We have a common thread that binds us together. And experiencing sisterhood and that richness of relationships while gaining personal and professional growth and development at a high level of excellence … it doesn’t get any better than that.”
DDDeck the Halls
This holiday season, support your Tri Delta sisters by ordering your greenery from Lynch Creek Farm, who will donate 15% of your purchase to Tri Delta’s Foundation.
• Visit www.lynchcreekfundraising.com/c/268839 before Dec. 5 • Shipping is free anywhere in the U.S. • For more information email Foundation@trideltaeo.org
Tri Delta Living
Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Future Newly renovated Delta Lambda house ushers in the future of Tri Delta at Butler hen the members of Delta Lambda Chapter moved into the newly renovated house at Butler University in August, one of the first things they were drawn to was the archival gallery. “We always had a lot of photos randomly scattered around the house, but no one paid much attention to them,” said Collegiate Chapter President Emma Thom. “Now they are front and center.” From a beautiful painting of the exterior of the house and historic photos to fascinating stories and chapter memorabilia, the carefully curated archives pay tribute to the rich history of Delta Lambda Chapter, the over 90-year-old house, and the generations of women who helped build our sisterhood.
Connecting the Past and Present Delta Lambda members have called 809 West Hampton Drive home since 1930, and the historical nature of the Tudor-style home isn’t lost on the women who have lived there. Teresa Morton Nyhart, initiated in 1980, said, “When you walk up to that beautiful house, you see the stairwell going up and down, and you see the lovely living room. Even though parts of it have been remodeled, those historical elements are there and remain. It’s hard not to walk through those elements and think of the
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history, the longstanding nature of the house and the chapter and where it’s been. This new house and everything Tri Delta Housing has done to give it new life going forward is tremendously exciting.” Since its founding, Delta Lambda Chapter has had an important place in Tri Delta history. Although the chapter was closed in 1995 due to declining membership numbers, it was reinstalled 10 years later in 2005. And throughout its nearly 100-year existence as a chapter, Delta Lambda has given our Fraternity so much. It was Delta Lambda that gave Tri Delta the only Greek-letter mothers’ sorority, Tri Psi. A group of mothers of Butler Tri Deltas gathered to form the organization—with the help of Sarah Ida Shaw—shortly after the founding of Delta Lambda in 1914. Today, Tri Psi is an international organization with chapters across North America comprised of mothers who come together to support their Tri Delta daughters. The chapter has also given us a Fraternity President, Mary K. Wise Jensen, Butler, who led our sisterhood from 1948 to 1952. It was Mary K who was also Tri Delta’s very first Diamond Circle recipient, celebrating 75 years of Tri Delta membership in 1996. Deidre Morton Pettinga, initiated in 1983, remembers being in awe of the fact that her chapter had someone who had served as Fraternity president. “I can remember going to Convention in
The formal living room, located in the heart of the newly renovated Delta Lambda house, is decorated with a Tri Delta crest above the restored fireplace. between my sophomore and junior year. Someone there saw I was from Delta Lambda and said, ‘That’s such an important chapter.’ It made me feel proud to think that I was living in the same house these women had lived in.” Deidre and Teresa are biological sisters who were in the chapter together. In partnership with Tri Delta Housing, they along with many other Butler alumnae—including Kristy Guthrie Karpinski, a member of Butler’s rechartering class in 2005—have rallied around the Delta Lambda Chapter to provide support for the housing project. From naming individual bedrooms to providing the gift of music with a new grand piano, alumnae have left special touches throughout the new home with their generous gifts. Melanie Perry Hamer was initiated in 2005, and she shared, “When I joined Tri Delta, I wanted to help establish a sorority on campus that felt and functioned differently than the other organizations I encountered. I wanted to be a part of something new,
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something founded on the principles of strengthening women and embracing individuality. I found that in the women of Tri Delta. I found lifelong friends in the women I met, and I found a home in that stately Tudor at 809 W. Hampton. When I was nominated to be CCP of the Alpha and Beta classes, I wasn't aware that I would be making history as Butler University's first Black National Panhellenic Conference chapter president, but the importance of that has never been lost on me. My hope is that my donation will help continue chapter diversity through creating a welcoming and supportive chapter house for all women to call home.” Supporting the house has also been a great way for alumnae to reconnect with the chapter and each other! The Butler Tri Delta Housing Updates Facebook group has been active throughout the process, with photos and videos—along with memories and stories—shared throughout the renovation. “It’s been fun to reconnect with a lot of people we hadn’t talked to in a while,” shared Teresa. “It’s given us the opportunity to email, text and just catch up.”
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Building the Future Move-in day was full of excitement for the 73 women who now call 809 West Hampton Drive home. The renovated house now provides 18,000 square feet of living, meeting and relaxing space to accommodate the more than 200 members. The week after move-in residents and nonresidents alike were already enjoying the new house. “It’s very homey already,” shared Emma shortly after move-in. “Members are already watching movies in the TV room, and having karaoke and game competitions in the game room.” The basement game room has become a favorite spot, with its pool and air hockey tables and customized Tri Delta arcade game. The game room was also a draw for Delta Desserts, the chapter’s first philanthropy event hosted in the new house, with attendees having the option of donating extra money for the opportunity to play a game. Another favorite space in the house is the new dining room. “It’s been nice that everyone can eat at the same time. Every table is full, and after meals people are staying and chatting or doing homework,” said Emma. The dining room opens up to a large terrace, a space where the chapter is excited to hold even more events like September’s Delta Desserts in the future. Equipped with a sound system, comfy furniture and festive lighting, it’s also sure to be the perfect space to relax with sisters and enjoy warm sunny days or cool fall nights. Teresa and Deidre were also both drawn to the terrace when they saw the plans for the property—so much so, they decided to support the project with a combined gift to help make it a reality. Deidre said, “We both gravitated toward it, because we saw it as a welcoming place where the women could gather outside or be connected to the dining and living room areas of the house.” One of the best parts of the renovation process, says Emma, has been the opportunity for the chapter to connect with the alumnae and hear their stories of living in the house. Even though the house itself is the same one built in 1930, each class has its own unique stories and different experiences of living at 809 West Hampton Drive. And this latest renovation ensures the Delta Lambda house will continue to be a part of the Tri Delta story at Butler for decades to come. It’s a gift of Delta Love that decades of alumnae are proud to give to the chapter. While following the project updates on Facebook, Deidre had a realization, as she continued to see sister after sister sign their social media comments and posts with DL—Delta Love. Deidre realized that DL not only stands for Delta Love, it’s also an abbreviation used for Delta Lambda. “It occurred to me that, ‘Wow! We’re in a Delta Love chapter.’ How special is that?” SPECIAL NOTE: We look forward to rescheduling the rededication and ribbon cutting for the renovated house. Watch social media for the new date and additional information as they become available. 34
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The Founding of Delta Lambda When Tri Delta Housing began its work on renovating the Delta Lambda chapter house, several pieces of Delta Lambda history were rediscovered, including letters sharing the unique tale of Delta Lambda’s beginning on campus.
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My hope is that my donation will help continue chapter diversity through creating a welcoming and supportive chapter house for all women to call home. -MELANIE PERRY HAMER
”
Letters from Ruth In August 1911, Katharine Gawne, a student at Butler College, received a letter from a stranger named Ruth Mannering who lived in Roxbury, Massachusetts. Ruth wrote that members of Butler’s faculty thought there should be another sorority on campus in addition to the three existing national groups: Kappa Kappa Gamma, Pi Beta Phi, and Kappa Alpha Theta. Katharine’s name had been given to her as one who might be interested in forming this fourth sorority. Ruth claimed to be a member of a sorority that was always grouped with the three already present on Butler’s campus (known as the “Big Four”). That sorority was Delta Delta Delta. Katharine shared this letter with Helen Tichenor, her neighbor and college classmate. They read it again and again, Katharine answered it and a reply came promptly. Ruth had a rare gift of making her personality felt through her writing, and her second brief letter left no doubt in the minds of the two young women that they wanted to bring Tri Delta to Butler. On Sept. 21, 1911, under Ruth’s guidance, Sigma Delta Sigma was established as a local sorority at Butler College—organized for the purpose of petitioning for a charter from Tri Delta. Sigma Delta Sigma existed in secret during the first year which was devoted to strengthening the organization and selecting new members of strong character. From their first contact with Ruth, Katharine and Helen could tell that she was no ordinary person. Her vivid personality made them want to become Tri Deltas more than they wanted anything else. To them, she was Tri Delta. And yet, Ruth remained an elusive mystery. She never explained her exact connection to Tri Delta. Her name did not appear on the list of national officers; nonetheless she seemed to know all things about the
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Fraternity. The spirit and tone of her letters sounded as if she was the age of the young women themselves, and yet her participation in the Fraternity seemed to reach back into the past. It would be almost three years before they found out her true identity: Ruth Mannering was really Sarah Ida Shaw Martin, the Founder of Tri Delta.
Letters from Sarah With her uncanny sense of timing, Sarah had seen the perfect moment for expansion in Tri Delta, but she knew she could not wait for the cautious action of a conservative national council. Instead, she took the name “Ruth Mannering” to encourage the creation of several petitioning groups in the spots where she wanted Tri Delta chapters. And she did it without the knowledge of the national organization. As soon as a local group was well organized and had announced to Tri Delta its desire to petition for a charter, she would tell the group goodbye and drop out of the picture. This plan worked well with all the groups—except Sigma Delta Sigma. When Ruth Mannering announced to the young women that, since Tri Delta had their tentative petition, they no longer needed her help, the young women were surprised and hurt. They answered her, saying that she might stop writing to them but they would never stop writing to her. And so her letters continued to come. Sigma Delta Sigma, alone of all the groups with whom she worked in this manner, had the distinction of learning her true identity and a deep bond and beautiful friendship developed between the young chapter and Tri Delta’s Founder. Three years after that first letter written by Ruth Mannering, Tri Delta’s national council granted a charter to the Butler, officially recognizing them as Delta Lambda Chapter. The charter members were initiated May 18, 1914. Many years later Sarah Ida Shaw Martin wrote, “There is no other chapter that seems so close to me as Delta Lambda, no other— save Boston—where the individual members mean so much to me, no other to which I turn first in The Trident.” Trident.” Fall 2021 The Trident
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Live, Learn, Lead It’s easy to imagine our Founders Sarah and Eleanor meeting with friends and classmates after class, in the library or over a meal to share their plans for Tri Delta and why they should join. It’s how our Founders recruited early Alpha Chapter members—and how many chapters today grow our sisterhood! Informal recruitment (also known as continuous open bidding or COB) allows our collegiate members to reach out to unaffiliated women who have qualities of an ideal member and invite them to learn more about the lifetime experience Tri Delta has to offer. Last year, 70 percent of Tri Delta’s chapters were eligible to participate in continuous open bidding following formal recruitment.
Benefits of COB Executive Board Director Lenora Oeters, Cincinnati, found her home in Tri Delta through COB. No one in Lenora’s family had ever joined a sorority, so she was unfamiliar with the requirements and timing of formal recruitment. “I essentially missed out on formal recruitment before I even realized what I was missing out on,” she says. And, because she had just transitioned from a small private high school to a big public university, she needed time to settle in, get to know the campus and all its organizations, and learn how she could get involved. After hearing about sororities and seeing their leadership in action, Lenora decided to explore COB in the spring of her first year. “I remember the first time I went to the Tri Delta house, we just hung out and watched a movie and I got a tour of the house. I felt instantly at home and admired the women that I got to hear from and related to them so easily. It was that natural environment and authentic connection that I feel like is so easily facilitated in a COB experience.”
Growing Our Sisterhood
How COB Can Benefit Your Chapter (and Tri Delta)
More and more chapters are embracing informal recruitment as a way to build our sisterhood with exceptional women who are committed to Tri Delta. Here are a few reasons why COB can be a great option for your chapter:
1. Show off your personality Some chapters simply aren’t energized by or comfortable with formal recruitment! COB can be a way for you to show off your chapter’s personality and share what makes you unique—in a more casual, authentic way. Photo, left: Members of Nu Chapter at Ohio State: Chloe McDonald, Haley Adkins and Rachel Rza.
The same may be said for potential new members (PNMs). Those who aren’t attracted to the idea of formal recruitment, but would like to find a place to belong, may feel more comfortable with informal recruitment.
2. Tap into a larger pool of PNMs During COB, any woman on campus can be a potential new member. Who hasn’t worked on a project or been in a class discussion with someone whose talents, skills and values make you think, “They would be an amazing Tri Delta!” COB allows members to act on those connections and follow their instinct to invite outstanding women into our sisterhood.
3. Create positive PR on campus COB is a great way for chapters to more widely share Tri Delta’s message on campus. Promoting and demonstrating the sorority experience in a less formal way can help boost your chapter’s image to PNMs and across campus.
Planning Successful COB
COB looks different for each chapter—some chapters are able to complete the process in just a day or two after recruitment. For others, there may be multiple pushes throughout the term. Nu Chapter at Ohio State has found success in COB in recent years. They shared their tips on how they plan a successful COB effort.
“It was that natural environment and authentic connection that I feel like is so easily facilitated in a COB experience.” LENORA OETERS, CINCINNATI
1. Ask new members to recommend PNMs When looking for PNMs to target, Nu Chapter taps into their new members’ network. They encourage their new members to look for classmates, roommates and other friends who want to be a part of Tri Delta and whom they see as a good fit. “This helps with retention,” shares Chapter Development Consultant Sophia Smith, Ohio State. “The women want to be a part of Tri Delta for a reason, and if it aligns with our values, they will be eager to get involved right away.”
2. Reach out to PNMs personally After receiving names of PNMs from new members, the recruitment team reaches out to each one personally to invite them to an event, whether it’s a coffee date, a small group event or a small open house. The goal is to have the PNM meet many current chapter members to best see how they might fit. This also gives the PNM the flexibility to participate in COB in a way that works with their busy schedule.
3. Empower current members to participate Nu Chapter has found that COB also has had a positive impact on overall chapter retention. “Members feel empowered because it’s a way for them to get their non-affiliated friends involved in Greek life, specifically in Tri Delta,” says Sophia. Ultimately, the purpose of COB is to help our chapters grow our sisterhood. If your chapter has the chance to participate this school year, embrace it as another tool in your recruitment toolbox. It’s a wonderful way to share the joy of membership in Tri Delta and to discover lifelong sisters you may not have found through formal recruitment. Lenora says, “I guarantee that COB will allow you and your chapter to find women who love being in Tri Delta and contribute to her overall growth and development.” www.tridelta.org
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Live, Learn, Lead
CANADA
CANADA DELTA – UNIVERSITY OF OTTAWA
“It took a lot of hard work, but we were able to make the event fun and safe for everyone who attended ... It was one of the most rewarding experiences to see our community come together and enjoy fundraising for an amazing cause after the year we have had.” JACKIE RYAN, FLORIDA
Canada Delta’s Finance Team paired up with the director of social activities to create a month-long sisterhood finance challenge. This initiative is focused on creating greater financial literacy as well as encouraging members to learn about savings, building credit and building off of what they had learned in their AAUW Start Smart salary negotiation workshops. The chapter created a weekly newsletter, called The Delta Dollar, with financial tips and resources for members.
FLORIDA
ALPHA ETA – FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY During the spring semester, Alpha Eta Chapter worked to help those in need by participating in Dance Marathon, Relay for Life and Line Dance. The chapter also hosted its annual Sincerely Yours and Delta Dodgeball events to raise money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Delta Dodgeball was a huge success, raising more than $27,000. During the Sincerely Yours event, sisters gathered to write and decorate 4,000 letters to send to family and friends asking for donations for St. Jude. In February, the Panhellenic delegates from Tri Delta, Alpha Chi Omega, Alpha Gamma Delta, and Kappa Alpha Theta decided to host a fun event for their members since they all live on the same street and so many women from the different chapters are friends. The chapters gathered for an outdoor movie and ice cream night on the lawn of the Tri Delta chapter house. Abby Williams, vice president of community relations, shares, “We received so much positive feedback from this event and were so grateful everyone had a good time. Hopefully, we can continue to have fun events with these chapters in the future because it was an amazing time and a great way for our chapters to connect.”
ALPHA PSI – UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA Each year, Tri Delta’s Alpha Psi Chapter holds one of its largest philanthropic events of the fall semester: the Triple Play softball tournament. Because the chapter wanted to support St. Jude while keeping participants
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safe, the director of philanthropy, Jackie Ryan, decided to push the fall 2020 event to the spring semester. The cooler and less humid spring weather made it more comfortable for people to wear masks for extended periods of time, and the increase in vaccine availability, combined with mandatory biweekly testing, meant better safety measures were in place. The event ended up being both safe for participants and successful in raising money for St. Jude! “There were a lot of concerns going into Triple Play of how we could make a softball tournament safe in terms of COVID-19. It took a lot of hard work, but we were able to make the event fun and safe for everyone who attended. All the women made amazing signs for their teams and were able to enforce masks and social distancing while still cheering everyone on!” Jackie explained. “It was one of the most rewarding experiences to see our community come together and enjoy fundraising for an amazing cause after the year we have had. It warms my heart to see the money we’ve raised this far into the semester. Even with all our COVID-19 restrictions and guidelines, nothing will stop us from finding ways to raise money for St. Jude.”
IDAHO
THETA TAU – UNIVERSITY OF IDAHO Theta Tau Chapter won several chapter and individual awards from the University of Idaho for 2020-2021. Theta Tau took home Chapter of the Year, along with Excellence in Recruitment, Excellence in Community Service and Excellence in Philanthropy! Hannah Eckert, who served as collegiate chapter president in 2020, was awarded Member of the Year. Harleigh Johnson was recognized as New Member of the Year. And, Sage Huggins was recognized with the Emerging Leader award. On the academic side, Dawn Amos was recognized as Outstanding Scholar. Dylanie Frazier and Abby Davis were both recognized as Top 10 Student in their classes. And Bri Navarro was the first member from Theta Tau Chapter to receive the Virginia
Social Media Spotlight Wolf Distinguished Service Award. Congratulations to these outstanding Theta Tau Tri Deltas!
ILLINOIS
BETA OMICRON – ILLINOIS STATE UNIVERSITY Beta Omicron had a great start to 2021 with many exciting events and accomplishments, including welcoming 10 new members in early March. This year, thanks to a successful Sincerely Yours event, Beta Omicron raised more than $40,000 for the kids and families of St. Jude—a huge milestone for the chapter. Members have also focused on participating in other philanthropy events on campus, including creating a dance for Chi Omega’s March Madness dance competition. Despite not being able to host large events, the chapter planned many COVID-safe sisterhood events, including painting, tie-dying and a barbecue. Finally, Alumna Advisor Kelly Scarfe, Southeast Missouri State, was named Advisor of the Year at the Illinois State University Greek Gala. Congratulations, Kelly!
KANSAS
THETA IOTA – KANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY As COVID-19 restrictions loosened in Manhattan, Kansas, during the spring semester, Theta Iota Chapter tried to get each class and sister as involved as possible. The chapter started the spring semester with a Galentine’s event in celebration of Valentine’s Day with their sisters. At the end of February, Theta Iota hosted an online fundraiser with a goal to raise $20,000 in one day for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The chapter passed its goal with a total of $22,351.28! In April, Theta Iota hosted a favorite event, Delta House of Pancakes (DHOP), serving breakfast food and beverages on top of unlimited pancakes at the chapter house. They also partnered with the Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity for a percentage night at Chipotle and Panera, with a portion of spending that night being donated to St. Jude. To help new members make memories and grow closer, Theta Iota held a sleepover at the chapter house, which included games, movies, snacks and some homemade treats
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made by the house director. Toward the end of the semester, the chapter members were excited to have their moms in town for Mom’s Weekend, which included a painting class, flower arrangement event, brunch and shopping.
THETA OMEGA – UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS While continuing to follow university, Douglas County, Kansas, and CDC guidelines, Theta Omega Chapter was still able to host a few events during the spring semester. The chapter celebrated it seniors with a Pansy Brunch and hosted a Mom’s Weekend which included brunch and a Bunco tournament. During the spring semester, the chapter raised $57,591 for St. Jude with fundraisers like 10K in a Day, Delta Diner, percentage nights, T-shirt sales, and a Mom’s Weekend auction.
Lambda Chapter at Baker University shared member Amanda Hawj wearing Hmong cultural clothing on their Instagram in July. Amanda explains in the post what she is wearing and the meaning behind it: “I’m wearing a traditional Hmong white outfit. It is normally worn during a harvest festival. Often worn with coin belts and silver necklaces to show off the produce of the year. Right now I’m wearing it for a multicultural celebration.” It was a wonderful way for our Tri Delta sister to share this rich, vibrant culture with others!
The chapter was excited to continue expanding its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) committee during the spring semester. Committee chairs Payton Smith and Grace Hoge hosted weekly meetings to create an open space for women to talk about important DEI issues, and the chapter looks forward to being able to create an open dialogue where women can have the tough, and sometimes uncomfortable, yet necessary conversations. The chapter has taken time each month to recognize its members for academic excellence. Emma Bartelsen was recognized for receiving the Genentech Outstanding Student Award! She was the only student from the University of Kansas selected for this $5,500 scholarship and summer internship at the Genentech headquarters in San Francisco. Congratulations, Emma!
MISSISSIPPI
BETA MU – MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY The women of Beta Mu held their 15K in a day event on Tuesday, March 23, with the goal of raising at least $15,000 in 24 hours for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Members rallied around the event’s “Race for a Cure” theme to motivate friends and family to donate.
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Live, Learn, Lead
CROSSING THE FINISH LINE This summer Claire Darley, Colorado, drove in the Lemons car race at High Plains Raceway in Deer Trail, Colorado. The team has to buy a car for less than $500 and keep it running for two full days of racing— they finished with the checkered flag! To kick off the 24 hours, the chapter met on a Zoom call where members took turns sharing why they personally fundraise for St. Jude. Afterwards, they played a St. Jude trivia game. To boost donations, Beta Mu members took to social media with graphics, challenges and a positive attitude. They posted funny pictures and videos of themselves for every donation, made a piece of art for everyone who donated through their link, and called on their friends and family to give to this worthy cause. The 24 hours went quickly, but the chapter came together again to attend a final push event at the chapter house to get all of those last-minute donations. In the end, they enjoyed a day full of sisterhood and reflection on why they fundraise for St. Jude. The chapter far exceeded its 15K goal, raising $59,598 in 24 hours, and $63,020 by the next morning!
MISSOURI
PHI MU – SOUTHEAST MISSOURI STATE Tri Delta’s Phi Mu Chapter at Southeast Missouri State took home the Sorority of the Year Award on April 18. This last year, the chapter focused on supporting and helping their members during the challenges of the
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COVID-19 pandemic. In an interview with the Southeast Arrow, Abbey Hammack, vice president of chapter programming and development, shared, “Obviously, it was a big adjustment for us. We couldn’t hold chapter meetings because we didn’t want to stress people out. We did check in on each other a lot—we had mental health check-ins, and we had tutors to help students with online work.”
NORTH CAROLINA
ALPHA OMICRON – DUKE UNIVERSITY Congratulations to Alpha Omicron Chapter for receiving the Excellence in Community Engagement Award as part of Duke University’s 2021 In the Spotlight Award recognition! Thank you for all of your contributions to the Duke community.
OHIO
DELTA CHI – DENISON UNIVERSITY Delta Chi Chapter collaborated with Sigma Gamma Rho, a chapter under the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), to celebrate National Girl, Me Too Day on April 7. Girl, Me Too is a nonprofit established to promote the healing, empowerment and education of women while encouraging healthy
“We did check in on each other a lot—we had mental health check-ins, and we had tutors to help students with online work.” ABBEY HAMMACK, SOUTHEAST MISSOURI STATE
relationships, and National Girl, Me Too Day acknowledges the strength and endurance of all women of all ages. The collaboration consisted of two parts—an informal conversation facilitated by leaders in Sigma Gamma Rho and an all-day social media challenge. The conversation took place via Zoom and revolved around the importance of Girl, Me Too, women’s history, how to actively empower other women, and other female-related issues on Denison’s campus. The social media challenge was on April 7. Women all across campus were encouraged to customize and repost Instagram story templates, including sharing “A Female Organization That Inspires Me.” The social media challenge had great participation from women affiliated with Greek organizations and unaffiliated women.
putting its best efforts forward to help support the fight against childhood cancer. Last year, Zeta raised $15,481 for St. Jude through its Sincerely Yours event and a CycleBar event. The chapter also plans to put together a chapter cookbook consisting of family favorite recipes from members, along with fun facts and photos. Proceeds from the cookbook will all go toward St. Jude.
TEXAS
BETA XI – STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE UNIVERSITY Beta Xi was able to begin its journey back to a “normal” semester in the spring, holding more in-person events, including its brand-new philanthropic event, a grill-off benefitting St. Jude! The event was a tailgate themed grill-off at the chapter house. It included games, unlimited burgers and hot dogs, a grilling competition, hot dog eating contest, snow cones, mechanical bull and live music from Joey Greer. The event raised $4,649.
ZETA – UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI Following the winter storms in Texas last February, Zeta Chapter’s vice president of community relations, Cece Mihelich, arranged a fundraiser for the Houston Food Bank to help those affected. The chapter got the entire Greek community at the University Cincinnati together and, with the use of Bingo boards on social media, they were able to raise enough money to provide 966 meals. The chapter also remains committed to
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The chapter also hosted a 4K-in-day event for St. Jude, surpassing its goal by more than $10,000 and raising $14,166! The chapter maintained its support of the Nacogdoches community by holding service events, such as tutoring at an after-school program, collecting canned goods for the food bank, and participating in SFA’s Big Event—an entire day filled with serving the community.
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42 TheTrident Trident Fall Fall2021 2021 8 The
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For a Lifetime
Paying your annual alumnae dues to Tri Delta is one of the easiest ways to continue to support our sisterhood for generations to come. It’s a once-a-year task that makes a huge difference! With the generous support of duespaying alumnae, we are able to offer staff and volunteer support for all our collegiate and alumnae chapters; growth and development for all members through programming, leadership training and LEADDD events; The Trident, both in print and online; the Let’s Talk Tri Delta podcast and so much more. Thank you!
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Visit My Tri Delta at tridelta.org to see if your dues are current. When you log in, check the “Annual Alumnae Dues” box for your status. Don’t worry if your dues aren’t current! There are two easy ways to pay. Join a local alumnae chapter. Dues paid through an alumnae chapter cover annual Fraternity dues along with fees to help with the operations, philanthropic efforts and events of your local chapter. Don’t fret if there’s not a chapter near you! Member-at-large dues of just $33 a year can be paid right on our website. Take advantage of all that your dues make possible. Visit LEADDDer.org for dynamic learning and development opportunities, selfpaced and on-demand. Check out upcoming events, including our LEADDD Keynote Series and LEADDD San Diego, at tridelta. org/events. Plus, watch your email and social media for even more that Tri Delta offers our dues-paying alumnae. Don’t wait to make this small investment in yourself and in our sisterhood!
CALIFORNIA
After 14 months of Zoom meetings, members of the San Jose Alumnae Chapter met at a beautiful park for an in-person dinner! The alumnae chapter president, Heather Pubols Rose, Pacific, presented her officers with lovely orchids to thank them for a remarkable year under unusual circumstances. The group deepened friendships through Zoom, emails, texts, cards and social media. New members were added, and old memberships were strengthened. The San Jose Alumnae Chapter proved that they can weather any storm with loyalty, dedication, kindness and love.
Jane Stephen, Susan Weston and Susan Armstrong Reid, all Toronto, with special guest Sally Briggs from Phi Delta Chapter, at the University of New Mexico. It was a lot of fun listening to their memories from when they were in the chapter and to hear that they still hang out together!
In March, the San Diego Alumnae Chapter participated in “Wags for Wishes.” Throughout the month, members of the chapter donated items to local animal shelters to make a PAWSitive impact in the community. San Diego Alumnae Chapter member Julia Viera, California/Los Angeles, was also named Coronado’s Hero of the Week on March 8, International Women’s Day! Congratulations, Julia!
After utilizing Zoom exclusively for Book Club during the pandemic, Fort Myers alumnae reaDDDers were able to meet both in-person and on Zoom on June 29 with a discussion of “Little Fires Everywhere” by Celeste Ng. Incorporating both meeting methods allowed members who were away for the summer and those who were unable to travel to enjoy the fellowship of Tri Delta sisterhood while sharing their love of books.
Nancy Wagner, Boston Boston,, member of the San Gabriel/Crescenta Valley Alumnae Chapter, celebrated her 90th birthday on April 17 with more than 60 friends—and Tri Delta sisters—participating in a drive by birthday celebration. Nancy was also presented a letter from Fraternity President Megan Shaw James, Millsaps, to celebrate her special day.
CANADA
On May 6, the Toronto Alumnae Chapter held Circle Degree virtually, welcoming four seniors from the University of Toronto’s Canada Alpha Chapter into alumnae membership: Allyson Webley, Monika Morcos, Gabriella Hermary and Micaela Pacheco. The chapter also celebrated its first Pearl Circle ceremony with Shannon McKechnie, Toronto, marking her 10th year anniversary of Initiation. Silver Circle (25 years) honored Carly Klassen, Ottawa, and Christine Kralik, Toronto, and Golden Circle (50 years) was performed with five members: Arlene Chan,
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The chapter also celebrated its Diamond Circle member (75 years), Muriel Smart Masson, Toronto Toronto.. She was unable to attend the event, but the chapter members sent their love and thanks for her continued sisterhood.
FLORIDA
Hugs, tears of joy and infectious smiles marked the coming together of the Sarasota Area Alumnae Chapter for Pansy Brunch in the Park—and, there was much to celebrate! Twenty-four members enjoyed the special event, with tables decorated with silver, gold and blue tablecloths and pansy centerpieces. Boxed lunches were served, and there was ample time for long-time and new members to get better acquainted after no in-person events for over a year. Chrys Grafrath Hyde, Coe Coe, , former Tri Delta’s Foundation Trustee, headed up Pansy Palooza. Members made gifts to the Crescent Fund and Tri Delta’s Foundation to honor and remember Tri Delta sisters, and their efforts raised more than $1,500.
Photo, top: The Albuquerque Alumnae Chapter gathered at a local park for a Pansy Sidewalk Social. Photo, bottom: Sarasota Alumnae Chapter President Cindy Hicks Jeffers, Texas, (left) presents the Golden Circle pin to Toi Ahrens Estes, Florida. Toi celebrated 50 years of Tri Delta membership at the chapter's Pansy Brunch.
New Sarasota chapter member Jennifer Martin Cloutier, Florida Florida,, shared her experience becoming an Honor Initiate. Since joining Tri Delta, Jennifer has been
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pearl circle
The Pearl Circle necklace was created to commemorate this special 10-year milestone and can be purchased through Herff Jones.
Celebrating 10 Years of Membership
Interested in celebrating your 10 years of membership? Reach out to your local alumnae chapter, or be on the lookout for more details on Tri Delta’s next virtual milestone ceremony!
In In2020, 2020, Tri Delta’s Ritual Committee introduced a special new milestone ceremony, celebrating 10 years of Tri Delta membership: the Pearl Circle ceremony. It was designed as a way to recognize Tri Delta’s young alumnae with a 10-year milestone, consistent with the Silver (25-year), Golden (50-year) and Diamond (75-year) Circle ceremonies. Rather than having to wait until they’ve reached their 25th anniversary of Initiation, alumnae can now recommit to Tri Delta’s timeless Purpose, renew their Initiation vow and fully embrace lifetime membership by celebrating Pearl Circle.
Tri Delta hosted its very first celebration of the Pearl Circle ceremony virtually last year following Convention and again this summer as part of our Summer of Sisterhood.
serving on the Crescent Fund committee and shared stories of how Tri Delta assists both collegiate and alumnae members. Another highlight was the presentation of the Golden Circle to Toi Ahrens Estes, Florida Estes, Florida,, conducted by Alumnae Chapter President Cindy Hicks Jeffers, Texas Jeffers, Texas..
GEORGIA
The Atlanta Alumnae Chapter received three awards from Atlanta Alumnae Panhellenic Association—an appropriate number for our brave, bold and kind Tri Deltas! April Mathis Voris, Alabama Alabama,, received the Panhellenic Woman of the Year award, while Amber Simmons, rising senior at Brenau, is a Panhellenic scholarship winner for Tri Delta. And finally, the Atlanta Alumnae Chapter was named the Outstanding Alumnae Chapter! To celebrate, members of the chapter gathered at Brook Run Park in Dunwoody, Georgia, for a spring picnic.
HAWAII
At the beginning of summer, members of the Hawaii Alumnae Chapter got together for a pool party—the first time they’d seen each other in person as a group since before COVID-19. They brought snacks to share and spent time chatting and reminiscing outside by the pool. They even enjoyed an impromptu rendition of the “Gleaming White Pearl” song of recruitment—a special moment that showed what sisterhood is all about. No matter the age or chapter, each sister knew the song and it brought them all together in the moment.
KANSAS
Danielle DePriest, Kansas State, State, Amber Strohbehn, Iowa State, State, and Jacqueline Hansen, Arkansas Arkansas,, met and became friends in 2017 when they began veterinary medical school at Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine. On May 14, 2021, the three celebrated their graduation together! The Tri Delta sisterhood brought them together both as friends and as lifelong professional colleagues.
Chicago Loop Group celebrates its 125th anniversary next year.
2022 Chapter Anniversaries
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MINNESOTA
On June 5, 44 members of the Minneapolis St. Paul Alumnae Chapter gathered for the first time since the pandemic for their Pansy Picnic at Parkers Lake in Plymouth, Minnesota. On a beautiful sunny Minnesota afternoon, the sisters caught up after many months apart, installed new officers, and celebrated the Circle Degrees. But, for three sisters, the fellowship of Pansy Picnic 2021 did not end as they headed home from Parkers Lake after a lovely afternoon of conversation, lunch and ritual. Within a few blocks of the park, Carol Brown-Mills and Jannette Paulu were jarred by a loud shudder under the floorboards of Carol’s car, which limped itself to the curb and www.tridelta.org
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ALUMNAE Moscow, Idaho 9/29/1997 Greensboro, North Carolina 10/30/1997 COLLEGIATE Beta Mu/Mississippi State 2/13/1972 Beta Xi/Stephen F. Austin 12/2/1972 ALUMNAE Conejo Valley, California 8/20/1972 Chicago North Suburban, Illinois 9/1/1972 Winston/Salem/Forsyth County, North Carolina 11/1/1972 ALUMNAE Boulder, Colorado 1/15/1947 Lawrence, Kansas 1/1/1947 Meridian, Mississippi 11/11/1947 Missoula, Montana 10/1/1947 Albuquerque, New Mexico 1/1/1947 Bryan/College Station, Texas 3/1/1947 Midland, Texas 1/1/1947 ALUMNAE Fort Collins, Colorado 2/1/1922 Manhattan, Kansas 3/1/1922
ALUMNAE Chicago Loop Group, Illinois 5/15/1897 Cincinnati, Ohio 9/2/1897
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Sharing Our Sisterhood Through Honor Initiation
D
id you know that women who were unable to join Tri Delta as collegiate members can still be welcomed into our sisterhood as alumnae? Tri Delta is always looking for amazing women who are interested in joining our brave, bold and kind members on a path of leadership, community service and friendship through Tri Delta’s Honor Initiate program.
So far this year, Tri Delta has welcomed 38 new alumnae members through Honor Initiation. We held a virtual initiation for 26 women in celebration of International Women’s Day on March 8, and 12 more women joined our sisterhood at our virtual Volunteer Leadership Conference on July 17! We will welcome more sisters on Nov. 7 during our International Founders' Day celebration. Lisa Frenzel Remsikova, Texas, is Tri Delta’s honor initiate chair and is an honor initiate herself. When she attended the University of Texas in 1985, Lisa was focused on her figure skating career, leaving little time for sorority recruitment. Fast forward 24 years, and she was devoting much of her free time to volunteering, which led her to Tri Delta. “Throughout my years of volunteering with various organizations, I had met many wonderful women, many of
whom happened to be Tri Deltas,” says Lisa. “I noticed the volunteers who inspired me the most and mentored me the best were often Tri Deltas.” Lisa wanted to focus on an organization that aligned with her values where her time and energy would be valued, appreciated and put to good use. Tri Delta was a perfect match. Since joining Tri Delta in 2009, Lisa has continued to be involved as a volunteer and has enjoyed the opportunity to meet, work with and learn from her Tri Delta sisters. For her, honor initiation meant joining a diverse network of women who share the common goals of living the Purpose of our Ritual. “There are many incredibly talented women … who either chose not to join during college or did not have the opportunity to join, who could contribute positively to our organization of brave, bold and kind women dedicated to living the values of our Ritual.” Do you know an outstanding woman who is active in their community, exemplifies Tri Delta’s values and would be a great fit for our sisterhood? Nominate them to be an honor initiate: tridelta.org/our-members/alumnae/honorinitiate.
Members of the Atlanta Alumnae Chapter gathered at Brook Run Park for a spring picnic in May. The chapter celebrated receiving the Atlanta Alumnae Panhellenic Association's Outstanding Alumnae Chapter Award!
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collapsed. Luckily for them, at that moment Kim Beecham came up behind, pulled over and hopped out to see what the problem was. It was a major problem that required calls to Roadside Assistance and a long wait in the stifling heat for the tow truck. That was the miserable part. But there was also a beautiful part. The car came to rest near a grassy bank where the ladies could wait safely and in the shade of a lone pine tree! They had lawn chairs and water and the company of each other. Kim drove to a nearby store to replenish water and bring back ice cream treats. The three sisters kept themselves and the wilting pansies from the picnic hydrated, and conversation flowed “at the foot of the pine tree” as the old Tri Delta song goes. Even in moments of distress, the bonds of sisterhood sustain us and can turn an adverse situation into an opportunity for deepening friendship.
NEW YORK
Earlier this year, the Long Island Alumnae Chapter held “Pooling for St. Jude,” a Super Bowl box pool fundraiser. The pool was advertised on the chapter's fundraising Facebook page and shared with friends and family. After the initial pool closed out in less than 24 hours, and with demand from participants, the chapter decided to post another and then another. In just three weeks, six pools of varying box cost were posted and closed out. The pools brought in over 150 participants and helped the chapter raise $2,650 for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
NORTH CAROLINA
On Fat Tuesday, the Charlotte Alumnae Chapter celebrated Mardi Gras by acting out a Mardi Gras Masquerade murder mystery via Zoom! Members enjoyed 'getting into' character with costumes, props and dialects—and they learned that our sisters are good actors! It was a wonderful way to virtually “Let the Good Times Roll!”
TEXAS
Two more Tri Deltas have been named members of Southern Methodist University's 2021-2022 Alumni Board. Melanie Fish and Alice Viroslav have joined fellow sisters Elizabeth Emerson and Alison Ream Griffin, all Southern Methodist. Methodist. This volunteer board helps create a thriving alumni community at SMU that meaningfully engages alumni and parents. Congratulations, sisters, and thank you for representing Tri Delta through your service! Three years ago, four teachers—Trisha Harvey, Westminster Westminster,, Arianna Klitsas, Texas A&M, A&M, Stacy Alexander, and Marisa Hurst, both Stephen F. Austin—were Austin—were hired to open a new intermediate school (Hofius Hawks) in the suburbs of Houston, Texas. None of them taught the same subject, but eventually they found out they all have something in common: they are Tri Delta sisters! “Teaching is a very stressful job but it made it easier by always seeing a friendly face in the halls,” shared Trisha. “We made it through opening a new school and then teaching during a pandemic, and one of us is now a much deserved retired teacher … You never know where you will meet a sister!”
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SEVENTY-FIVE YEARS ago, these women pledged loyalty and devotion to Tri Delta, and today they have held true to that promise. Join us in celebrating our Diamond C ircle sisters! The fraternity has made a donation to Tri Delta’s Foundation in their honor. If you’d like to also make a donation in their honor, or in honor of a specific sister on this list, go to tridelta. org/donate or mail a check to Tri Delta 14951 Dallas Parkway, Ste. 500, Dallas, Texas 75254.
AMON
IRCLE
ADELPHI Marguret Julien Gilchrist, Jane Carson Kirches, Carolyn Rand Langan, Shirley Maclean Thomas, Barbara Caffrey Walling, Margaret Cornell Wenk. ALABAMA Martha Stoney Anderson, Carolyn Covington Branton, Sharon Smith Cutler, Jesse Yarbrough Jemison, Henriette Rowe Jordan, Jean Barnes Moffatt, Mary Alston Poellnitz, Mary Ann Bonney Riley, Jane Cason Simpson, Harriet Smith, Mary Williams. ALBERTA Mildred Sigsworth Hunt, Enid Glauser Munford. ARIZONA Rosemary Barker, Virginia Houghton Culhane, Geraldine Fergus Grant, Margaret Bell Munn, Lois Lane Nance, Barbara Parker Pinney, Barbara Moore Rider, Lorna Christian Strauch, Frances Bliss Wardell. ARKANSAS Ruth Easterbrook Bertin, Rebecca Wright Chancey, Mildred Johnson Gallegly, Betty Parker Garrison, Kathryn Sayle Griffin, Adeline Baker Patterson, Mary Scurlock, Schumacker, Helen Sweet, Waldean Cooke Whitelaw.
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On July 9, 2021, members of the Boulder, Colorado, Alumnae Chapter gathered to celebrate Diamond Circle member Donna Robinson Meckley, Colorado, (pictured center) and her 75 years of Tri Delta membership.
BAKER Joan Penley Detter, Theodora Christensen Dooling, Marjorie Bailey Marquis, Nancy Marquis Shepherd. BELOIT Lucille Hubbell Anderson, Elizabeth Burt Baker, Betty Williams Davis, Shirley Gesme Erb, Audrey Schroeder Jackson, Marilyn Cate Larson, Phyllis Adolphson Schmitt, Kennette Glentzer Warnimont, Shirley Small Wray. BOSTON Beverly Boyd, Shirley Smith Daly, Pauline Knott, Shirley Rhodes Lowe, Anna Rines Martin. BRENAU Ruth Martin Atkinson, Virginia Cullom Corey, Barbara Smith Ditzel, Lois Sadler Durr, Doris Slack Larison, Mary Alexander Lingo, Pomeroy Huff Lowry, Ann Hasson Marble, Joan Longworth Smith, Elizabeth Fisher West. BUCKNELL Shirley Schweiker Fagan, Carole Jackson Maudlin, Virginia Wier Thomas, Martha Chance Walgran. BUTLER Barbara Lovelle Hanks.
CALIFORNIA/BERKELEY Sharole Otis Atley, Jo Spindt Brean, Rosemary Pratt Crane, Suzanne Krebs Croudace, Joanne Cardiff Depuy, Mary Follen Hawley, Gene Croudace Hoyt, Jane Keeler Keller, Doris Petterson Mescher, Nancy Tomer Pickford, Bonnie Smith, Marion Jacobus Vogel, Elizabeth Bohart Wakefield. CALIFORNIA/LOS ANGELES Leslie Abbott Barclay, Dorothy Sergel Carlson, Barbara Mulvehill Coyne, Marijeanne McClendon Crabtree, Amy Anderson Duling, Virginia Frazier Foster, Shirley Illo Gabel, Gale Michael Goldsberry, Helen Oppen Griswold, Mildred Locke Lane, Margot William, McCann, Donna Bell Parshalle, Brenda Ullman Schmida, Jane Pitts Welsh. CARNEGIE-MELLON Beverly Huggler Braun, Wanda Forsythe Clay, Betsey Eunson Cooper, Jane Bates Fantaski, Patricia Ferguson, Virginia Rosendahl Huffman, Elizabeth Ogilive Kehew, Doris Moore Malter, Anita Mortimer Michael, Virginia Walsh Nichols, Dolores Beljan O'Reilly, Norma Maurhoff Pickard, Ruth Faulk Stambaugh, Margaret Will Stanford, Alice Haggerty Stewart, Sylvia Davis Stuckrath.
CHARLESTON Elizabeth Bargmann Hunter, Fenwick Kollock, Ann Stock Rhett, Elizabeth Bryan Sims.
Bruner, Rowena Kuykendall Jones, Laurie Izlar Mullins, Eleanor Hunter Ross, Martha Rudy Wallace.
CINCINNATI Nancy Koch Holterhoff, Catherine Stewart Katz, Nancy Nenninger Keating, Helen Lawton Koch, Ann Buford Mitchell, Jane Salisbury Pancero, Jeanne Daulton Reed.
FLORIDA STATE Amante Semmes Carlquist, Margie Norris Holbrook, Marilyn Bassett McCown, Faith Adams Young.
COE Janice Reid Berg, Lucille Roberts Gregor, Barbara Seger Harris, Helen Davis Munday, Mary Hamblin Ovrom, Virginia Lagerstrom Rowe, Carolyn Doyle Skok. COLBY Margaret Clark Atkins, Barbara Vanevery Bosworth, Virginia Cole Daggett, Martha Loughman Shepard, Haroldene Whitcomb Wolf. COLORADO Betty Short Burnham, Kathryn Smith Corwin, Mary Boese Erskine, Jacqueline Snook Hatfield, Helen Henry Hicks, Mary Goedde MacDonald, Eleanore Gardner Matheson, Joanne Berkstresser Nielson, Patricia Rose Smither, Eva Peyton Steadman, Midge Gregg Tuttle. COLORADO STATE Astrid Svedlund Brown, Pauline Prather Duffy, Violet Walton Johnson, Eloise Euwer Norton. CORNELL Joyce Anderson, Jean Schultheis Brechter, Betty Murtaugh Eck, Mary Lou Dorward Erdman, Martha McKelvey Holdridg, Lucille Bast Koop, Elizabeth Jewett Neel, Adele Arnot Rasch, Dorothy Dye Spencer, Josie McKenrick Tobie, Joanne Halla Watkins, Betty Greening Wigsten, Norma Johnson Wiles. DENISON Clara Mills Cain, Marilyn Wicks Contrada, Nancy Ball Hance, Jane Carstensen Heller, Martha Bowman LavieLombardi, Patricia Fagan Martin, Lois Fleck Mitzman, Janet Snyder Nagy, Elizabeth Fogg Scazzero, Dixie Campbell Utter. DEPAUW Joanne Morrison Kramer, Dorothy Lami Magill, Joan Blakely Malcomson, Jean Wuerfel Morey, Joan Hoy Sampson, Edith Schmidt, Nancy Rockhill Walters. DRURY Lu McCallon Bridges, Virginia Whipple Strathdee, Jane Zuegel.
GEORGIA Minnie Powell Bowers, Nancy Sorrells Brewer, Eleanor Hunt Florence, Mary Cline Lind, Dorothy Fechtel McCleskey, Jane Randall Nessen, Cornelia Frost Pilcher, Betty Ledbetter Thompson.
KENTUCKY Caroline Palmer Bland, Betty Brooker Brothers, Jane Price Fowler, Josephine Trapp Hartfield, Mary Hornbrook Kirkpatrick, Elise Meyer, Joy Marsh Rice. KNOX Mary Halvorsen Brandenburg, Jo Ann Nye Edwards, Helen Parker Hageboeck, Virginia Hawkins Jensen, Joanne Davis Johnson, Nancy Powelson McCormick, Mertyce Erickson Meyer, Yvonne Spielman Turnquist.
The Diamond Circle Pin Awarded on your 75th Tri Delta Initiation anniversary. The first Diamond Circle pin was presented to Mary K. Wise Jensen, Butler, Past Fraternity President. IDAHO Betty Young McIntyre, Jeanne Talbott Robinson. ILLINOIS Jean Hansen Fogelsong, Madge Berkey Morgan, Betty Bryant Parsons, Dorothy Seeman Rice, Betty Pace Vertovec, Nicki Mack Weltzin. INDIANA Jean Maddox Atkins, Margaret Willson Gale, Charmion Tooley Quick. IOWA Jane Lord Cray, Phyllis Oltman Jones, Sally Quist Kamman, Barbara Allen Lockhart, Ruth Paul Lundstedt, Norma Haegg Pollock. IOWA STATE Jeanne Peshek Farmer, Phyllis Thompson Harris, Joan Kilty O'Brien, Martha Ann Baschen Olson, Marjorie Allen Savage, Martha Pray Woodard. KANSAS Bonnie Cunningham Arrowsmith, Marjorie Dinsmore Ewers, Barbara Meyer Kiskadden, Elizabeth Mallonee,
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MAINE Carol Smith Cervone, Janice Maxwell Franszen, Harriette Watson Litchfield, Gloria Dow Pelliteir. MANITOBA Joyce McFee Sommers. MARYLAND Johanna Donovan Bell, Jane Lynch Day, Elizabeth Maire Herndon, Eileen Simpson Turyn, Lucile Andrews Weldon. MIAMI/OHIO Frances Pedrick Benz, Helen Hinchman Burley, Patsy Steketee Cortright, Lila Egan Dennis, Suzan Bland Dohner, Martha Vanduyn Looker, Phyllis Shuler Miller, Shirley Borkenhagen Romesberg, Sally Adams Schalles, Mary Peters Shackleford. MICHIGAN Betty Estes Gnaegy, Marian Reus Jacobson, Jean Lyman Lanxner, Jane Wetmore Lichtwardt, Jeanne Thorne McLeod, Ginny Nicklas, Marjorie Reber Salata. MIDDLEBURY Mary Cole. MILLIKIN Jacqueline Funk Canterbury, Ellen Quinn Petty, Joanne Hathaway Sullivan.
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KANSAS STATE Donna Diller Ballenger, Mary Alice Wolf Barr, Bette Schlotthauer Bossler, Georgi Gress Dawson, Alice Keefe, Roberta Royston Shelor.
LOUISIANA STATE Roberta Steele Eunson, Mary Willey Fite, Ann Jackson Love, Anna Standard Owen, Dorothy Voorhies Scobee.
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DUKE Dorothy Harriss Brower, Elizabeth Beall Brueggemann, Patricia Messerly
FRANKLIN Ruth Riggs Brasaemle, Mary Baughman Fruth, Jean McAtee McKay.
Emily Berry Musselman, Eunice Carlson Rolfs, Mary Martin Rush, Anne Krehbiel Sauer, Shirley Grigsby Stallard.
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Gray, Shirley Sedlon Mathewson, Julia Oliver Pierson, Joan Guillod Stahlfeld. OKLAHOMA Phyllis Hellar Brown, Margaret Geatches Curtiss, Joan Fisher Snodgrass, Sarah Scott Stidham. OREGON Patrica Jolliff Blackley, Audrey Kullberg Giffen, Sara Bjorset Hamilton, Julia Graham McFadden, Janet Watts McLennan, Elizabeth Spangler Nolen, Elizabeth Basler Ross, Dawn Carson Sipe, Marjean McElvain Sprick, Shirley Kissling Taggesell, Marjorie Tate White, Altabelle Hoadley Wildish. OREGON STATE Roberta Allen Beam, Kate Delistraty Gregos, Nancy Christensen Miles, Jane Acton Preiss, Joan Johnson Thompson, Margaret Badgley Vernon, Mary Perkins Wagner, Jean Wiegand Wiggins, Jean Graffenberger Wilson.
MINNESOTA Mary Palm Hoffman, Abby Amundson Howe, Dorothy Seifert Kropp, Janice Enger Kwiat, Eleanor Collier McWaters. MISSISSIPPI Emily Russell Clark, Bonnie McCain Dalton, Frances Terry Gage, Mary Ann Brandon Jones, Dorothy Newsom Lochausen, Pauline Covington Merrell, Nancy Harton Washburn, Mary Andrews Wilkinson. MISSOURI Ruth Beckemeier Mawdsley. MOUNT UNION Helen Hanny Bircher, Elizabeth Herren Gorby, Eileen Nettro Hill, Marthajane Silver Hood, Betty Ritter Olson, Mary Silver Reto, Donna Day Shreve, Martha Scott Wheaton, Lois Zellers. NEBRASKA Shirley McKenna Heinke, Patricia Ward Schaumberg, Jean Nicodemus Soennichsen, Rosemarie Grow Taylor.
McLean, Dorothy Swain Meares, Audrey Johnson Pendergrass, Jeanne Neuling Reeder, Barbara Lynn Simons, Mary Helm Sisson, Alice Roberson Skinner, Nancy Waugh Spangler, Ruth Tompkins Stratton, Elsie Rhyne Thorne, Elise Wishar Tyree, Elizabeth Greve Warwick. NORTH DAKOTA Hope Morwood Bakken, Alice Russell Fyten, Darleen Nasset Jackson. NORTHWESTERN Marianna Freeman Bell, Janet Rademacher Bosworth, Betty Atterberry Chandler, Barbara Hosterman Clark, Patricia Nippe Hiester, Orleath Vogelaar Ingle, Irene Overman Kreer, Lois Pascoe Lindberg, Joan Patrie Milske, Alma Womble Price, Elizabeth Fulton Schaaf, Barbara Brownell Somers, Frances Strom Stock.
NORTH CAROLINA Catherine Carlen Cox, Elizabeth Blunt Hall, Mary Jo Cain
OHIO WESLEYAN Joan Mumma Blackwell, Sara Utz Croy, Helen Merker
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NEVADA Mary Hanley Davison, Doris Hanssen Sinofsky.
OHIO STATE Lee Vornholt Dresback, Tony Oelgoeta Loehnert, Joyce Merryman, Joanne Theado Skinner, Patricia Vandoren Thornton, Mary Hoover Wojno.
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PENNSYLVANIA Kathleen Hazlet Boren, Dorothy McClatchy Borresen, Marie Pollock Cissel, Anne Zentgraf Hagan, Theresa Voncarlowitz Hunt, Patricia Reilly Jacobs, Nancy Boerner Smith. PITTSBURGH Mary Stephenson Hagelin, Marian Rewbridge Ifland. RANDOLPH-MACON Merle Tilley Carroll, Jean Bass Crawford, Martha Nichols Fisher, Mary Douglas King, Mary Lathram Love, Jo McClelland Morey, Marie Guy Smith, Jean Campbell Taylor. Peggie Nickels Yarbro. RHODES Mignon Dunn, Ella Bailey Hay, Harriet Causey Kuykendall, Anne Love, Patricia Caldwell McKnight, Sara Elliott Newton, Margaret Vickers Ratcliffe, Rebecca McCall Stacy, Sue Henry Turner, Mary Grainger Wells. ST. LAWRENCE Ann Leadley Bender, Barbara Sniffen Bennett, Martha Fiddler Ferguson, Yvonne Johnson Holzkamp. SIMPSON Fern Payne Andrew, Mary Christian Chisman, Sula Laird Jordison, Patricia Allen Webb. SOUTH CAROLINA Martha Parker Allison, Sarah Bull Clarkson, Mary King.
VERMONT Rose Sullivan Dolson, Jane Johnson Hazen, Betty Anne Scott Hunziker, Margery Grout Johnson, Eleanor Allen Miles, Beverly Hall Post.
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA Nancy Bassett Barrington, Mary Mohlengraft Basler, Paula Johnson Dickson, Nancy Vann Hersh, Olive Weber Jarvaise, Elizabeth Latimer Johnson, Jayne Wightman Megginson, Carol Drew Padgett, Adell Eaton Quilico, Joan Aita Scheel, Joan Gregg Zukin.
WASHINGTON Donna Ford Callero, Merrillyn Goodnow Dow, Jean Lincoln Frankland, Sally Macdonald Hepler, Barbara Forsyth Hill, Helen Cleaver Hurd, Barbara Ross Mitchell, Barbara Blacksmith Monaghan, Lois Peck Peyton, Norma Martin Villiers, Jane Elliott Young.
SOUTHERN METHODIST Helen Anderson Bearden, Colleen Blodgett Boswell, Blanche Webster Coker, Glynda Hawkins Conn, Barbara Hurley Gagnon, Marie Leahy Jenkins, Sharon Allen LaRue, Betty Russell Morton, Virginia Eckman Ray. SOUTHWESTERN Mary Matlock Holtze, Sue Lane Tarpley, Margaret Comin Wallender. STETSON Lois Wykoff Knight, Rosemary Johnston McDavid, Marjorie Williams Owens, Virginia Morris Snoddy, Iris Hart Young.
WASHINGTON STATE Jacquelyn Hansen Basso, Suzanne Raymond Cahoon, Kay Sorensen Swanson.
Jean Lyman Lanxner, Michigan, participated in the Diamond Circle ceremony virtually this summer.
SYRACUSE Margaret Wind Barry, Nancy Collins Carlson, Joyce Wind McArdle, Betty Sanders Sills, Sally Swierstra Wisniewski.
Campbell, Jaclyn King Chapman, Virginia Klewer Church, Annis Henry Easley, Jean Heiing Geis, Joanne Merrill Gilmore, JoAnne Rauch Johnson, Nancy Barnett Kurr, Joanne Eckel Luettke
TENNESSEE Betty Haaga Barnett, Carol Newman Biegler, Anne Goodloe Forrester, Mary Morris Heffernan, Marie Sharp Leonard, Dorothy Gracy Macaulay, Jeannette Hutchinson Underwood.
TORONTO Jean Howes Cameron, Noreen Cornish Evans, Mary Shiach Grasser, Marion McLean Hay, Muriel Smart Masson.
TEXAS Leta Garrison Eaves, Margaret Danforth Harp, Sue Wilkirson Hoffman, Mary Glass Langford, Ann Oden Lessig, Joan Fredley Minor, Jane Gillean O'Donnell, Patricia Clements Schoen, Betty Davis Willson, Gloria Jackson Wolfe . TEXAS/EL PASO Maudie Vantrease Auvenshine, June Kraut Boutin, Dr. Elizabeth Flake, Jane House Howard, Helen Small Merriman, Karma Webb Odell, Diana Pattison Richter
TULSA Ruth Mase Dick, Juanita Sittel Hardy, Eunice Knowland King, Jo Ann Johnson McMackin. UTAH Jacqueline Anderson Eddington, Mildred Ogden Garrett, Patricia Synon Gnadt, Sue Stoddard Stevens, Jeanne Wiggill Taft, Joyce Woolley Wiley. VANDERBILT Sarah Morrison Geron, Jean Whitson Hester, Margaret Rainey Kirk, Laura Lea Knox, Betty Driver Peeler, Betty Ward Stumb, Jane Harrison Sullivan.
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WHITMAN Joan Hager Cochran, Ruth Staats Engle, Patricia Lowndes Jennings, Jean Latourette Medina, Barbara Sawyer Scott, Joyce Mulhair Seebart. WILLIAM & MARY Eleanor Cooke Barnard, Gretchen Erb Bradley, Lucy Buran Cornett, Jane Uhlendorf Kempsell, Frances Pope O'Sullivan, Gene Griffin Wilson, Helen Demurguiondo Wineland. WISCONSIN Polly Kendall Cumming, Helen Lund Dahm, Patricia Lyga Geraldson, Patricia Snell Hanson, Donna McKee Howes, Phyllis Frudden Meyer, Maxine Stehr Moore, Carol Levenick Rice, Dolores Westphal Roberts, Patricia Soellner Speicher, Jean Rowen Walker, Sabra Wales Wirth, Hermine Kollin Wirthlin. WYOMING Charmaine Petrich Bailey, Doris Moran Cundall, Lucille Clarke Dumbrill, Esther Macleod Griffin, Aline Height Mankin, Donna Carroll McLachlan, Kathleen Hayes Pancratz, Dorothy Manley Wataha.
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TRANSYLVANIA Norma Cundiff Loew, Alma Bowles Naumann.
WASHINGTON/ST. LOUIS Jules Stewart Bush, Hester Warfield Conrad, Mary Jacobs Darst.
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With Purpose
Volunteer Spotlights Mavungu (Alba) Kambu, Ottawa Operations Advisor Alba was initiated in 2014, and during her time in the chapter, she served as the vice president of finance. After graduating with a degree in electrical engineering, Alba now works as a technical consultant and continues to give back to Canada Delta Chapter by serving as the operations advisor.
How did you first hear about volunteering for Tri Delta, and what made you decide to volunteer? Shortly after circling out in March 2017, our alumna advisor (AA) at the time mentioned about how she was looking for more volunteers to look over different areas of the collegiate chapter and to gather more alumnae involvement through volunteering. Although I was nervous to join because I just went through Circle Degree at the time, I went into this thinking that it would be an insightful experience to go through and to learn new things.
What do you get most out of volunteering? Volunteering for Tri Delta has allowed me to build connections with other volunteers and members that I would not have had the chance to meet otherwise. As someone who started volunteering right after Circle Degree, it was another way to continue my personal growth and development and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to begin my volunteer experience so early. It has also encouraged me to stay up to date with all the amazing initiatives that Tri Delta has in store.
What has been the most rewarding experience? Overall, the most rewarding experience so far as a collegiate advisor is seeing the collegiate members grow throughout their time in the chapter and seeing them graduate as strong and passionate young women. Seeing it firsthand and knowing that I can be a part of their growth and development is a reward in and of itself.
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“As someone who started volunteering right after Circle Degree, it was another way to continue my personal growth and development and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to begin my volunteer experience so early.” Alba Kambu
“Tri Delta is where I learned to be a leader and I will be forever grateful for that. I would not be where I am today professionally without the experiences I got leading in Tri Delta.” Laura Stenovec
Laura Stenovec, Denver Collegiate Crescent Fund Chair
I LOVE the friends I have met through volunteering. I cannot imagine my life without them in it.
An accomplished leadership coach, mentor, and Beautycounter Managing Director, Laura is passionate about team development, philanthropy and healthy living. Having started her professional career in the nonprofit sector, she is committed to building community and supporting it through service.
Professional development is important to me. I love growing and learning both as a person and as a leader. I’m grateful to Tri Delta for all that I have learned through its alumnae programming.
Laura has served in a variety of volunteer roles with Tri Delta, including house corporation treasurer, collegiate district officer (CDO), collegiate chapter coordinator (CCCo), extension committee, alumnae chapter president and, now, the chair of Tri Delta’s Foundation Collegiate Crescent Fund.
I’m still in touch with some of the collegiate members I worked with when I was a CDO and CCCo. I love staying in touch with them as they advance in their careers and life.
How did you first hear about volunteering for Tri Delta, and what made you decide to volunteer? I had so many wonderful alumnae role models when I was in college that saying “yes” to volunteering for Tri Delta was a no brainer. I knew I wanted to do it as soon as I was able. I believe greatly in the importance of giving back to an organization that has given me so much. I find myself referencing my collegiate Tri Delta days often in my professional life. Tri Delta is where I learned to be a leader and I will be forever grateful for that. I would not be where I am today professionally without the experiences I got leading in Tri Delta.
What do you get most out of volunteering? I always say “every day is an opportunity to make a new friend.”
What has been the most rewarding experience?
Joni Saquilayan Malina, Arizona Phoenix Valley Alumnae Chapter Secretary After graduating from the University of Arizona, Joni served Tri Delta as a chapter development consultant (then known as field consultant) in 2007-2008. She then went on to attend medical school at Midwestern University Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine. Now board-certified in internal medicine, Joni is currently an academic physician/ hospitalist at St. Joseph’s Hospital & Medical Center. She has served as an officer of the Phoenix Valley Alumnae Chapter since moving back to Arizona, including having served as events committee co-chair, membership chair, treasurer and now secretary.
“I love working with our volunteer team of dedicated, talented and knowledgeable women to help save a small piece of Los Angeles' architectural history.” Meredith Green How did you first hear about volunteering for Tri Delta, and what made you decide to volunteer? I first heard about volunteering for Tri Delta as a new member of Phi Beta. Not only did I learn about lifetime membership and ways to remain involved after graduation during my new member education, I immediately witnessed the dedication of the local, regional and national volunteers. When I became collegiate chapter president, I became even more aware and appreciative of our volunteers and knew I wanted to volunteer after graduation. Two volunteers in particular stood out: 1) Longtime University of Arizona Alumna Advisor Kathy Damstra who attended every chapter meeting, standards meeting, and several other events and mentored us despite having a full-time job and other outside responsibilities. And 2) Linda Purkapile who visited our chapter as a representative of the Fraternity during a time of chapter need. Both served as mentors, advisors and role models for me, and now I’m proud to consider both of them as friends to this day.
What do you get most out of volunteering? What I get the most out of volunteering is being able to give back to this organization that means so much to me. I must admit when I joined Tri Delta, I didn’t fully understand what I was getting myself into. I just thought it would be a good way to get involved on campus and meet some friends. Little did I know that this organization would shape me into the woman I am today. I joined Tri Delta as a reserved freshman who didn’t realize my full potential. I was shocked when I was slated to be our chapter secretary as a freshman and president as a sophomore. I was terrified and actually almost asked to be removed from the slate both times. But I trusted my sisters who pushed me to succeed and grow both personally and professionally. I discovered that I could be a leader and team-player and be able to work with different types of people of different backgrounds. I can confidently say that my experiences through Tri Delta, from collegian to alumna, have directly prepared me for my career as a physician.
What has been the most rewarding experience? The most rewarding experience has been contributing to the successes of Tri Delta and watching her continue to grow and flourish. I am proud to be able to continue Tri Delta’s legacy to benefit collegiate and alumnae members alike.
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Meredith Green, Southern California Theta Xi House Corporation President After earning degrees from the University of Southern California (USC) and the UCLA Interior Design Program, Meredith launched her design firm, Meredith Green Designs LLC, in 2004. She uses her talents as an interior designer for the Theta Xi house at USC, where she serves as house corporation president.
How did you first hear about volunteering for Tri Delta and what made you decide to volunteer? I first heard about volunteering for Tri Delta from one of my closest USC Tri Delta friends. She was in grad school at USC at the time and decided to volunteer herself and asked if I wanted to help out with the chapter. At first, it was just a great opportunity to spend time with a wonderful friend! Then as I got to know some of the other volunteers I was invited to a house corporation meeting. It was at that first house corporation meeting that I realized perhaps there was a way for me to use my talents as an interior designer to give back to USC, the chapter, and our beautiful historical home.
What do you get most out of volunteering? Our beautiful house is the constant backdrop of the USC Tri Delta experience. A lot of time and effort goes into maintaining this 124-year-old home, and I learn something new every day. Whether we are redesigning an entire space, salvaging a small historic architectural detail, or a new year has introduced a new “must have” technology, I am constantly learning. I love working with our volunteer team of dedicated, talented and knowledgeable women to help save a small piece of Los Angeles’ architectural history.
What has been the most rewarding experience? The USC Tri Delta house is not just a place to live, but a place to grow as women. Under its roof, generations of Tri Deltas have developed friendships, achieved their academic goals, and honed their leadership skills. The house continues to play a prominent role in the collegiate living and learning experience, and the house corporation strives to create an environment where our chapter members can flourish. Knowing that my design work and I are a part of that history is extremely rewarding.
In Memoriam
Remembering Past Fraternity President Jeanne Johnston Phillips, Southern Methodist It is with great sadness that Tri Delta shares the loss of a beloved sister, leader and past Fraternity President, Jeanne Johnston Phillips, Southern Methodist, on Sept. 25. Jeanne was initiated into Theta Kappa Chapter in 1942. During her time at SMU, she was very involved in Tri Delta and campus organizations. She was rush chair (now called vice president of membership experience) during her sophomore year and became collegiate chapter president her senior year. Her campus involvement included treasurer of the freshman class, president of the geography club, Panhellenic delegate, and a member of Phi Lambda Theta and Kappa Delta Pi. Jeanne’s love for school and SMU never ended even after graduating in 1945 with a Bachelor of Arts in geography. She went on to receive a master’s in geography in 1953. She also taught geography at SMU and was chairman of SMU Sororities Council. After graduating, Jeanne’s involvement with Tri Delta grew even more. Her volunteer roles included scholarship advisor and alumna advisor for Theta Kappa Chapter, district president (now called collegiate district officer) for five chapters in Texas and national program chair for pledge trainers (now called directors of first year experience). She also served the Fraternity as an associate director from 1970 to 1972. She joined the Executive Board in 1972 and continued to serve on the Board until 1980. During this time, she was elected Collegiate Vice President 1972-1976, and served as Fraternity President 1976-1980. Jeanne also served as a member of the Fraternity Council 1970-1984 and became chair of the council in 1980 until 1984. During the same period, she was also chair of the Nominating Committee (now called Leadership Development Committee). Other volunteer roles included a member of the Foundation Crescent Fund Committee 1982-1988, a
www.tridelta.org Photo at right, Kent Barker
member of the Century Fund, a member of Theta Kappa Chapter House Corporation Board and president of the Dallas Alumnae evening group. Jeanne enjoyed music ministry for many years. She was an organist for a small church and played piano for Presbyterian Rehab Center, numerous nursing homes and Women in Bible. The Senior Sunday School class at Park Cities Presbyterian in Dallas, Texas, enjoyed her music every Sunday. She was also a member of The Daughters of the Republic of Texas and a member of the National Society of Daughters of the American Revolution. We are so grateful for her lifetime membership, and Jeanne’s loyalty and devotion to our Purpose will continue to live on in Tri Delta. For those who wish to make a donation in memory of Jeanne Johnston Phillips and in honor of her dedicated service to Tri Delta, please visit give.tridelta.org.
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In Memoriam
Olivia Chutich, Iowa State
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ri Delta was deeply saddened by the death of Olivia Chutich, a member of Omega Delta Chapter at Iowa State University and a junior majoring in communications studies, on Jan. 22, 2021.
Chapter president Savanah VanScoy and Olivia’s close friends shared thoughts of their sister, “We will always remember Olivia’s contagious laugh, bubbly personality and positive outlook on life. She lit up
every room she walked into and made an impact on every single person she met. We are grateful to have been a part of her beautiful life and to have shared a special bond of friendship with her.” Olivia’s mothers, Penny Wheeler and Margaret Chutich, shared on social media: “We want you to know that being a Tri Delta meant so much to Olivia. It gave her a sense of tremendous belonging, support for her studies, and a whole lot of joy.”
Eaddy Osteen, Clemson Tri Delta mourns the loss of collegiate member Eaddy Osteen on July 24, 2021. Eaddy joined Tri Delta’s Beta Theta Chapter at Clemson University, where she was a rising sophomore.
Her classmates described her as helpful, trustworthy, intentional, teachable, outgoing, relatable, a leader, driven, proactive, resourceful, forthright, insightful, persistent and witty.
Eaddy lived her life to the fullest and was involved in many clubs and activities, in addition to Tri Delta.
Eaddy meant so much to so many and had a personality that drew you to her and made you want to be part of her life.
Leanza Cornett, Jacksonville eanza Cornett passed away on Oct. 28, 2020. Leanza was crowned Miss Florida in 1992, and Miss America in 1993. She later had a career as a television host, including at “Entertainment Tonight.”
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As Miss America, Leanza made AIDS awareness her platform—the first Miss America to ever do so—after volunteering at a pediatric foster house for children with AIDS. She was a tireless advocate for promoting public awareness and prevention of AIDS.
Emily Bourne Grigsby, Vanderbilt Tri Delta alumna Emily Bourne Grigsby was known as a Renaissance woman who lived a remarkable life in her 98 years. After obtaining undergraduate degrees from Vanderbilt University and Mills College, she received her master's degree from Georgia Tech and a Juris Doctor from Woodrow Wilson College of Law. She went on to arbitrate for the New York Stock Exchange, was Fulton County Superior Court Mediator, and mediated for Justice Center of Atlanta. In addition to law, Emily also studied interior design at Tuxedo School in Atlanta while simultaneously taking formal oil painting lessons. She hosted more than 30 single artist art shows and her works have been acquired all over the Southeast.
Additionally, Emily learned to fly, earning her pilot's license and becoming a member of the Ninety-Nines, which was founded by another Tri Delta sister and aviation pioneer Louise Thaden, Arkansas. Emily sang soprano for the San Francisco Opera for 3 years while her husband served in the navy in the Pacific, learned to belly dance and, after moving to Atlanta, modeled for Rich's Department store for 12 years. Emily had a taste for travel and incorporated destinations around the world into her interests. She thrived on social visits, phone calls and shared meals. She was a supporter of the arts, passionate investor in her interests and crusader for all women. Understanding the importance of investing in future generations of women, Emily was also a member of Tri Delta’s Heritage Society. By remembering Tri Delta’s Foundation in her will, she truly exemplified Tri Delta's values.
Cheryl McDonough, Vermont Cheryl received a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Vermont in 1971, where she joined Tri Delta. Years later, Cheryl would return to Eta Chapter to serve as a caring house mother to her younger Tri Delta sisters. A dearly loved sister, auntie, mother, friend and colleague, some will remem-
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ber Cheryl from her antique shop in Waitsfield, as the flea market vendor of linens and other items she lovingly restored, as the award-winning, ever funloving school crossing guard, or as the city councilwoman from Ward 2 who championed her beloved neighborhoods, and the entire city, for many years. Yet, everyone who knew her will remember Cheryl as the kind and happy soul who she was. A fiercely independent, some might say stubborn, woman, Cheryl believed deeply in the sisterhood and brotherhood of all humankind and remained ever steadfast in her commitment to those beliefs.
Dr. Fay Reifsnyder Biles, Duke Woman of Achievement Dr. Fay Reifsnyder Biles joined Tri Delta at Duke University, where she triple majored in biology, English and physical education. Fay went on to pursue her master’s degree at Kent State University, where she became an instructor in the Physical Education Department, teaching for 16 years and coaching an undefeated female field hockey team. While teaching at Kent, she enrolled in Ohio State’s doctoral program, earning a multi-disciplinary doctorate with a groundbreaking dissertation. Her passion for teaching physical education spurred her to direct the new PEPI (Physical Education Public Information) national project, traveling the country, speaking and appearing on national television programs. In 1972, She broke the “glass ceiling” when she became Kent State’s Vice President of Public Affairs and Development, the first woman vice president of any Ohio university and the first woman to hold that position at a university in the U.S. Fay was most proud of her work with the American Heart Association in developing the Jump Rope for Heart Program, which has now raised over $1.2 billion promoting heart health education and nutrition for elementary and high school students. For our full monthly In Memoriam list of sisters, visit tridelta.org/trident. If you know of a sister who has passed away, please share their information by emailing memberrecords@trideltaeo.org.
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Tri Delta ReaDDDs around campus! This book is designed to introduce children to the idea of going to college, helping them picture themselves continuing their education throughout their lives. Taylor Krebs Potter is a wife, mom and business consultant with a love for universities, college sports and learning. Taylor graduated from OU in 2011 with B.A. degrees in economics and international studies. Marjori Maddox Krebs is a wife, mom, grandmother, teacher and university professor in teacher education who enjoys time with her family, reading aloud to her grandchildren and encouraging young people to follow their dreams. Marjori graduated from OU in 1985 with a B.A. degree in history with an emphasis in education.
Burning the Breeze: Three Generations of Women in the American West By Lisa Hendrickson, DePauw “Burning the Breeze” is the true story of three generations of women and their intrepid efforts to succeed in the American West. Lisa Hendrickson spent more than 10 years researching and writing the book about Julia Bennett, the first woman to own and operate a Montana dude ranch, and Julia’s mother and grandmother, who set out from Civil War-torn Missouri on a 10-month journey with little more than a yoke of oxen, a covered wagon, and the clothes on their backs. They faced countless heartbreaks and obstacles as they struggled to build a new life in the Montana Territory. Excerpts from diaries, letters, and scrapbooks, along with rare family photos, help bring their vibrant personalities to life.
Moon Walk: Forever By Your Side By Meryl Davis, Michigan
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mbark upon a wondrous moonlit adventure with your little one as you share this special, rhyming story about the evergrowing bond of love and support between parent and child. It is often in the quiet moments of life, where we stop to pause and listen to what our children have to say that we create the greatest bonds with them. Written by U.S. Olympic gold medalist Meryl Davis, this heartfelt book is sure to inspire new family traditions and ways of strengthening the bond between family members.
Children’s / Social Justice
Ages 4–8
MAGINATION PRESS More Books for Kids
I See You
"Burning the Breeze" is the true story of three generations of women in the American West.
CELANO, COLLINS & HAZZARD
Meryl is a 2010 Tri Delta Woman of Achievement and a former competitive ice dancer who won gold in the 2014 Winter Olympics with her skating partner, Charlie White. Immediately following her 2014 Olympic win, Meryl appeared on the hit TV show “Dancing with the Stars,” where she again came away with a win and the coveted mirrorball trophy. by Michael Genhart, PhD
A Story About Being Yourself
Emma and Josh heard that something happened in their town. A Black man was shot by the police.
Boomer and Sooner Visit the University of Oklahoma by Kalli Dakos
When You Look Out the Window:
How Phyllis Lyon and Del Martin Built a Community
“Why did the police shoot that man?” “Can police go to jail?”
Something Happened in Our Town follows two families—one White, one Black—as they discuss a police shooting of a Black man in their community. The story aims to answer children’s questions about such traumatic events, and to help children identify and counter racial injustice in their own lives.
by Gayle E. Pitman, PhD
Grow Happy
by Jon Lasser, PhD, and Sage Foster-Lasser
Marvelous Maravilloso:
Includes an extensive Note to Parents and Caregivers with guidelines for discussing race and racism with children, child-friendly definitions, and sample dialogues.
Me and My Beautiful Family
Take a tour of OU with University of Oklahoma mascots Boomer and Sooner as they visit favorite places ISBN 9781433828546
90000 >
by Carrie Lara, PsyD
Published by the American Psychological Association www.apa.org/pubs/magination
9 781433 828546
M A G I N AT I O N P R E S S
By Taylor Krebs Potter and Marjori Maddox Krebs, both Oklahoma
SOMETHING HAPPENED IN OUR TOWN
Why Am I Blue?:
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SomethingHappenedJacket.indd 1
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Lisa is the owner of Lisa Hendrickson Communications, an Indianapolis-based communications consulting firm. She has written and edited five books, including a series about Indiana history for the Indiana Bicentennial Commission.
Something Happened in Our Town: A Child's Story About Racial Injustice By Ann Hazzard, Emory, Marianne Celano and Marietta Collins Something Happened in Our Town follows a White family and a Black family as they discuss a police shooting of a Black man. It is designed to engage young children in a compelling story as well as spark important discussions about racial injustice. In addition to modeling conversations about race, this book provides messages of acceptance, empowerment, and positive community support.
“Something Happened in Our Town” follows two families—one white, one Black—as they discuss a police shooting of a Black man in their community. The story aims to answer children’s questions about such traumatic events, and to help children identify and counter racial injustice in their own lives. The book includes an extensive note to parents and careIncludes an extensive Note to Parents and Caregivers that provides general guidance about addressing racism with children, child-friendly vocabulary definitions, conversation guides, and a link to additional online resources for parents and teachers.
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An innkeeper shares her story and recipes. What seemed like an impulsive decision to open their home to bed and breakfast guests developed into a renewed outlook on life for Ken and Sandra Lefever. One that enriched day to day living in ways they couldn’t have imagined.
Shared Spaces is Sandra’s candid, humorous, inspiring account of opening one’s heart and home to strangers. Through self-reflection and many anecdotes she explains her belief that this was their destiny and why it worked. This momentous life change ultimately enhanced her perspective of humankind. Sandra, also a former educator, graduated from the University of Nebraska. For 31 years she taught junior and senior high French, German, Spanish and English. She and her husband Ken, a farmer, have three sons and five grandchildren. They live in Geneva, Nebraska.
A flourless chocolate cake prepared for guests.
A gargoyle guards the pathway to the wooded area of Dempster Woods Bed and Breakfast.
ISBN-13:978-1-98751-895-5
sandra lefever
Ann Hazzard, PhD, ABPP, is a clinical psychologist who has worked with children and families throughout her career. She recently retired from Emory University School of Medicine. At Emory, she supervised pediatrics and psychology residents and conducted research on child trauma and other issues, publishing 30 articles in professional journals. She has been a board member of several community nonprofits, including organizations focused on child abuse prevention, bereavement support for children, promotion of children's literacy, and reduction of healthcare disparities. She developed therapeutic stories for many child clients when she was a practicing psychologist and is enjoying the freedom to expand her creative efforts during retirement.
ShARed SpAceS
givers with guidelines for discussing race and racism with children, child-friendly definitions, and sample dialogues.
Shared Spaces
Sandra, also a former educator, graduated from the University of Nebraska. For 31 years she taught junior and senior high French, German, Spanish and English. She and her husband Ken, a farmer, have three sons and five grandchildren. They live in Geneva, Nebraska. An Inkeeper’s Story with Recipes
Sandra Lefever
In “Healing a Shattered Soul,” Mindy Corporon invites readers to join her search for inspiration and hope after domestic terrorism took the lives of her father and son. Headlines about the attack circled the world. Now, Mindy takes readers inside her family's struggle, the support of their faith community and her commitment to courageous kindness.
By Audrey Brazeel, Colorado
In “Generation Nanny,” Audrey explores the history of generations of nannies before her and the generations that will come after. “Generation Nanny” gives voice to the current state of the American childcare and education systems and unveils the intersectionality of women’s careers, family planning and a woman’s pursuit for equality in the workplace. Through the topics of privilege, feminism and womanhood in the 21st century, Audrey reveals a universal truth that when women bind together to support each other’s families, careers and lives, anything is possible.
Shared Spaces By Sandra Lefever, Nebraska What seemed like an impulsive decision to open their home to bed and breakfast guests developed into a renewed outlook on life for Ken and Sandra Lefever— one that enriched their day-to-day living in ways they couldn’t have imagined. “Shared Spaces” is Sandra’s candid, humorous, inspiring account of opening one’s heart and home to strangers. Through selfreflection and delightful anecdotes, she explains her
www.tridelta.org
Healing a Shattered Soul By Mindy Corporon, Oklahoma
Generation Nanny Diapers, naps, swaddles and strollers. This wasn’t Audrey’s plan. The plan was to get a degree, get a job, make a family. After countless failed attempts to score a “real job,” Audrey spends three years as a nanny for seven families across the U.S. With each family she works for, she discovers her life’s purpose by simply caring for others.
belief that this was their destiny and why it worked. This momentous life change ultimately enhanced her perspective of humankind.
Mindy Corporon has dedicated her life to encouraging kindness, faith and healing after losing her father and son in a domestic terrorist attack in 2014.
A popular speaker, teacher and writer, Mindy has dedicated her life to encouraging kindness, faith and healing in congregations, companies and communities. Among the programs she has co-founded with this vision are the Faith Always Wins Foundation and Workplace Healing, LLC. She has traveled widely to lead workshops and speak at conferences, and she also shares her insight and inspiration through online events.
The Clover Tree By Kimberly Foster, California/Los Angeles Sporty Kate Malone has a powerful ally: full access to a magical clover field. At 13, the ability to manifest a pair of designer jeans, an A on a math test and— best yet—a first boyfriend has never been more opportune. Yet Kate’s desire to be popular outweighs the prudent decision to keep her clover field a secret, and she jeopardizes both her popularity and her belief system. Then, in an instant, worrying about sitting at the “cool table” at lunch is overshadowed by tragedy. Kate strays into a teenage world that is tempting and destructive. Will Kate sabotage her soccer aspirations and her friendships? Can she use the power of the clover to save herself? Kimberly earned degrees from UCLA and the University of Washington, although she admits her formal education was no substitute for real-life experience. As a mother of teenage girls, a proficient carpool listener and passionate storyteller, Kimberly offers her first young adult novel.
Fall 2021 The Trident 61
Historically Speaking
A Legacy of Growth and Development by Fraternity Archivist Beth Dees Applebaum, Texas Christian
“Our sole purpose is to promote the development of the individual that the individual member may succeed in making a satisfactory adjustment to life and take her place as a leader in her community.” – From the Report of the President of Delta Delta Delta for 1938-1940
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F
rom its earliest days, Tri Delta has encouraged its members to follow their professional dreams and offered guidance and encouragement to assist them in achieving those dreams—even when women were not widely accepted in the workforce. Founder Eleanor Dorcas Pond provided one of the first articles published in The Trident on careers for women. Her article, "The Woman Doctor," appeared in the 1896 issue, and in it, Eleanor shared both her struggles to be accepted in the field and her tremendous satisfaction working with her patients
“Your Work and Ours” By 1914, the Education Department of the Fraternity started reviewing different professions in The Trident, looking at careers such as library sciences, social work, law, nursing and even movie theater ownership. In 1917, an Advisory Vocational Committee was created along with an Employment Bureau headed by Edith Say, Wesleyan/ Connecticut, marking the first steps in helping members find meaningful careers. When the outbreak of World War I created a demand for trained nurses and government workers, articles appeared in 1918 issues of The Trident promoting training and job opportunities for members. After the war, career prospects began to change for women, in part because so many had successfully filled critical positions during the conflict. The Trident again played an important supporting role by highlighting non-traditional careers for members, beginning in 1919 with the column "Your Work and Ours," where alumnae shared experiences regarding their professions. The column's success led to additional columns and features on vocational choices, particularly those unusual for women at the time.
“Opportunities for Women” In the fall of 1920, Marjorie Wilson, St. Lawrence, a vocational advisor with special training and experience, was appointed by the National Council to visit collegiate chapters across the country to provide personalized counseling to our members. Tri Delta was the first organization with
such a program, impressing many college authorities who wanted to create similar programs for their schools. Marjorie's Fall 1920 Trident article, "Opportunities for Women," provided an interesting look at women's progress in various professions. She wrote that medicine and law were becoming more open to accepting women, as were banking and finance, thanks to their success during the war. While some had managed careers in advertising, editing and journalism, Marjorie cautioned that many had to start with low-paying jobs and work their way up. She encouraged collegians with interests in science to look for openings noting that women chemists were in demand.
“I Want To Be…” At the 1936 Convention, collegians could attend vocational roundtables conducted by alumnae who were leaders in their fields. Hortense Hudson, Baker, a past Fraternity president and head of a personnel counseling firm in New York City, arranged the conferences. As a result of the interest generated by the program, "I Want to Be ..." was introduced as a new department of The Trident in March 1937. Its first installment looked at careers in music and landscape architecture written by Tri Deltas working in those fields. The series provided a frank look at both the positive and negative sides of each career, sometimes giving members the less glamorous aspects of dream occupations.
T
he popular series ran for nearly 20 years and featured a wide array of vocational choices, including medical technologist, recreation director, radio operator, health educator, photographer, dentist and copywriter. Tri Delta was seen as a leader among Greek organizations for our efforts in providing career development. In a speech at Tri Delta’s 1938 Convention, Ernestine Block Grigsby, Colorado, said: “You who follow The Trident, and who attended the last Convention, know that we have been working toward a vocational educational program and probably anticipated a further development. Again it has been interesting to watch our fellow Greeks follow our lead and insert ‘departments of vocational information’ in their magazines. One men’s fraternity editor said that we had led the field by presenting this and that he has been interested in watching our progress. He complimented the fraternity on such a forward-looking progress of service. I believe eventually such a plan of service could be self-supporting, and should be, with a possible subsidy at the beginning.” As increasing numbers of members began asking for more practical vocational assistance, Tri Delta's Executive Board commissioned a study into what kind of assistance to provide. As a result, Tri Delta continued its vocational counseling program and began working with local alumnae to create a local service for collegians and alumnae. Hortense visited alumnae across the country to set up the program, which varied based on the resources available in each city.
Empowering Tri Deltas Today Although the program Hortense envisioned never happened, The Trident continued “I Want to Be ...” until 1954. In 1955, Leadership School—now known as Collegiate Leadership Conference—began providing members with
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training essential for chapter operations and leadership skills valuable in the workplace. In the 1960s, The Trident continued to explore new fields and employment options. As more members joined the workplace in the 1970s, advice on successful job searches appeared in The Trident and through training sessions and workshops. In the early 1980s, career guidance interest was renewed with the introduction of networking to help establish professional relationships or business contacts among members. Tri Delta created several increasingly sophisticated platforms for networking throughout the decades—the most recent being our first networking app, CONNECTDDD, launched in 2019. Today, Tri Delta continues to support our members’ growth and development through programs like Life After College, which teaches collegiate members how to translate their Tri Delta experience into transferrable skills as they begin their careers. Additionally, all Tri Deltas can take part in leadership programming through LEADDD keynotes, workshops and conferences and on LEADDDer.org, our on-demand, selfpaced platform. Tri Delta’s transformational programs are made possible through the generous support of donors to Tri Delta’s Foundation, including the Mildred Bland Miller Charitable Fund. Tri Delta alumnae from a wide array of fields continue to be featured in The Trident and on our Let’s Talk Tri Delta podcast, where they share guidance and expertise much as Eleanor did for Tri Delta physicians in 1896. Today's Tri Delta members continue to blaze new career paths and Tri Delta continues to offer support, programs and resources to sisters as they pursue lifelong opportunities for growth.
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