TRIANGLE fall 2017
A Woman’s Place in the Workforce Stories from Sisters in the field.
Wellbeing Series
Mentorship: A Two-Sided Coin
Empowered Consutants
the TRIANGLE | fall 2017 1
The Triangle | Fall 2017
Volume 17, Number 2 Editor Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications Design/Editing Member Experience Editor Features Editors Copy Editors
president
Mallory Borino, Eta Omicron Jesi Wilcox
A Woman’s place...
S helle Design, Inc. Katie Bevan, Eta Chi
“So, what do you do?” is often the beginning of many conversations. At
Samantha Green, Eta Chi Amanda Marchegiani, Beta Xi Josey Herrera, Eta Chi Joie Montgomery, Beta Gamma
Sigma Sigma Sigma National Headquarters 225 North Muhlenberg St. Woodstock, VA 22664-1424 p 540.459.4212 // f 540.459.2361 sigma@trisigma.org // www.trisigma.org Executive Council 2016-2019 National President Natalie Averette, Gamma Beta National Treasurer Ann Rutkowski, Epsilon Delta National Vice President Linda Manley-Kuitu, Epsilon Rho National Vice President Kara Miller, Epsilon Delta National Vice President Joyce O’Daniel, Alpha Chi National Vice President Courtney Stone, Alpha Psi Ex-Officio Laura Sweet, Alpha Sigma Changes of names, addresses, and death notices should be sent to National Headquarters. Postmaster: Please send notices of undeliverable copies on Form 3579 to Sigma Sigma Sigma, 225 North Muhlenberg Street, Woodstock, VA 22664-1424. The Triangle of Sigma Sigma Sigma is published two times a year by Sigma Sigma Sigma, 225 North Muhlenberg Street, Woodstock, VA 22664-1424. Payment of membership dues includes $2 toward the cost of The Triangle subscription. Articles are invited for publication in this magazine. Manuscripts should be submitted to the Editor for consideration. Acceptances are on a contributing basis only and are subject to editorial review. All copies and photos become the property of Sigma Sigma Sigma. Member of National Panhellenic Conference and Fraternity Communications Association. © 2017 Sigma Sigma Sigma Follow us Sigma Sigma Sigma National Sorority Follow us @sigmasigmasigmahq Follow us @trisigma Follow us
from the
@TriSigmaNational 2 the TRIANGLE | fall 2017
social gatherings, during interviews for jobs and career advancement, for positions on leadership/governing boards, for membership in clubs or civic organizations, and even as you are making new friends and building new relationships, the proverbial question, “So, what do you do?” seems to play an integral part in every new encounter.
NATALIE MOORE AVERETTE Generations of women fought for our rights to vote and sought Gamma Beta National President acceptance of our place in the workforce. We appreciate the women
who came before us, for they paved the way and opened new doors. Through the decades, discussions about women in the workplace have evolved and debates about equality in the workplace have forced social and legal change in this country. But for all the choices we have— climbing the corporate ladder, working from home while also managing a family, building your own business, volunteering full-time to support non-profit or philanthropic initiatives, serving in the military, pursuing advanced degrees, or engaging in professional careers in athletics or politics— the question remains, who and what defines a woman’s role?
Though the options are many and will change over the course of your life, there’s not just one
right choice. However, the answer is simple. YOU define your role as a woman. You have your own personal authority to create the life that suits you. Do what makes YOU happy. Though external forces and influences may direct your thinking, they should not dictate your life choices. YOU can create the life YOU want to lead. We’ve all been faced with decisions and have wondered, “What should I do? What if I make the wrong choice?” Every choice you make may not be as intended or as you envisioned. Your choices may not always lead to planned outcomes, but your life will be richer through each and every experience.
As I look back over the years, I find it interesting how changes in my own life have transpired
and how years in the workplace, years of raising children, times of uncertainty, and countless blessings have all played a significant part in the woman I have become. I’ve learned that things truly do happen for a reason and sometimes you simply must find a way to just trust the process. There are things in life that I can control and things that I cannot, which is where faith and hope, along with trust, are essential in my daily life.
Inevitably we find ourselves reevaluating and redirecting our pursuits at various points in life—
when circumstances force a change that was not originally amongst our choices, or when new interests peak our attention…to work or not work...to start a family...to reenter the workforce...to relocate or start something new...we say to ourselves “What shall I do with my life?” Maybe even consider, “What is life asking of me?” As you formulate your decisions, one thing holds true: how you spend your day matters a whole lot more than how much money it pays. A job title, a paycheck, and a W-2 do not define a person, and one’s value is not measured in dollars or status. Women do not need to validate themselves or justify choices to anyone but themselves.
I hope the network of support and the skills you learn through your membership in
Tri Sigma equip you with the tools to navigate life’s rugged pathway. Seek your desires, pursue your aspirations and know that wisdom, power, faith, hope, and love will guide you. In all that you do, be true to yourself—because a woman’s place is wherever she chooses to be. Here’s to your future! ~ Natalie
contents
22 features:
departments:
6 Wellbeing Series
4 Editor’s Corner
8 2016 Award Winners
6 Empowered Women
10 Women of Leadership
16 Leadership
14 Be the Gutsy Girl
23 Member News
16 Mentorship: A Two-Sided Coin
37 Foundation
20 Empowered Consultants
42 Archives
22 Labyrinth Leadership Experience
43 Omega Listing
the TRIANGLE | fall 2017 3
editor’s corner
career r u o y g n i p a sh
What’s the best professional advice you ever received? For me, it was the classic “It is better to ask for forgiveness rather than for permission.”
When I first started my career as a
recent grad I hit the workforce at a hard MALLORY BORINO Eta Omicron Director of Marketing and Communications
time. The economy was trying to recover
from the housing crash in 2006 and it felt
like there were a million qualified candidates all fighting for one job. After almost a year
trying to catch a break in my dream industry, I finally landed an entry-level job at a local advertising agency.
In my early years I didn’t have much mentoring. Actually, I think
it may be more accurate to say I didn’t receive any. It wasn’t until
a few years later at another company when I met a woman named
Rebekah, my superior, who challenged me and guided me through those early years as I navigated the path of my career.
Being a young woman in a male-dominated industry wasn’t
always easy. I found myself having to be bold, be brave, and be
strong. When I landed in Rebekah’s office, she was the first woman
4 the TRIANGLE | fall 2017
I had worked alongside. We would spend countless hours talking
about projects, life, and professional struggles. It was during one of
those conversations that she gave me that advice. Now, if you know me, I am one of those people that is overly critical of themselves
and always trying to do and be the best. Thinking of failing or doing something that would need forgiveness at my job went against my grain. But, I took her advice and lived its truth.
I don’t know if Rebekah knows the impact she had on my life
and my career. It is because of her that I understood my worth and demanded it. It is because of her that I am confident to take risks and challenge the norm.
In this issue you will read the stories of many professional
women. From our eight Founders, the impact of mentoring, and how the consultant program shaped members’ careers, all of the stories
are filled with empowerment and perseverance. Take the time to find your passion, to mentor a young professional, or take a risk with a
new adventure. Or even better, take the time to tell that person who helped you develop professionally thank you. And on that note, I have a call I need to make.
the TRIANGLE | fall 2017 5
empowered women
WELLBEING SERIES: MENTAL WELLBEING
Seven Real-Life Things I Did to Make Work a Happier Place By Samantha Green, Eta Chi
Happy people are better employees, right? As a self-proclaimed hater-of-mornings and chronic multi-tasker, I spent two months test driving self-help theories and productivity tips to make my workday a little more positive. Here’s what worked: Take a break when you need to, and maybe give mindfulness a try! I know there are plenty of us that barely look up from our computers on busy days. Often, my neck and shoulders will get really tight
and I’ll find myself fighting off a headache before lunch. I traded my tension headache medicine for more frequent, brief breaks.
I found a series of books called “Five Good Minutes” and
picked up their “At Work” edition. It includes 100 brief mindfulness exercises that helped me hit the reset button when I was stumped on a project. If you’re a smartphone user who wants to give
mindfulness or meditation a try, I also recommend the Headspace app. Users can purchase a subscription, but the first 10 guided exercises are free!
Have a fun savings goal, even if it’s a small one.
Work was a lot more fun when I had something to look
forward to! Sometimes, when you’re working long hours, paying
your cell phone bill isn’t exactly the motivator you need to dig deep
and stretch my legs for a few moments. Even if it’s just a trip to
the copy room or jaunt down the hall, it counts! Bonus points if you can take a brief walk outside in the sunshine!
Find your Power Playlist!
For me, there’s nothing better than starting the day
with music I love! Most mornings, I favor upbeat, top 40 hits or
Broadway showtunes (don’t judge me). Whatever genre or artists
you favor, find a fun playlist or great radio station for you to enjoy on your way to work. Once you’re at the office, check out online radio options like Pandora and Spotify that you can stream through your internet browser.
Not a music junkie? Give podcasts a try! Whether you’re
into news, storytelling, comedy, or anything really, there’s
a podcast for you. If you’re a pod newbie, never fear! You can
stream podcasts through your smartphone or an internet browser.
Avoid office gossip like the plague.
and finish the job. I found that when I had a specific goal in mind—
The less negativity in your life, the better, girlfriend.
made staying late a little easier.
Take time to reflect.
I’ll be real. I’m too lazy and undisciplined to journal in a
like, a ticket to a local concert or a 5K I wanted to register for—it
It doesn’t have to be a huge goal or formal event, but having
something on your calendar that you’re excited about goes a long way to making hard work days a little easier.
Use a fun coffee mug… just because.
Whether you’re a coffee, tea, or water drinker, use a mug
or cup that makes you smile. I switch out my coffee mug every couple of weeks so my desk doesn’t get too boring, and as an added bonus, it’s a great conversation starter!
This principle can apply to all the items in your workspace.
Surround yourself with the things you love!
Get up.
Who knew that sitting all day could be so exhausting?
In college, I realized that unless I’m prompted, I would study for hours without moving. Factor in my proximity to the break room coffee
machine—by mid-afternoon I turn into a fidgety, grouchy employee.
Using my fitness tracker and cell phone, I set reminders
throughout the day that urge me to get out from behind my desk
traditional sense. I’ve tried in the past but never kept up with it, until I was introduced to the concept of bullet journaling.
A quick Pinterest search will show you there are some very
elaborate bullet journal formats out there. Folks with gorgeous penmanship, special highlighters, stickers, and stencils turn
“to-do” lists and daily reflections into a Museum of Modern Art
masterpiece. If you’re crafty, feel free to give it a try… but that’s not what I’m talking about.
My bullet journaling consists of four bullet points every day:
In a sentence or just a few words, I end each day by writing
Highs, Lows, Kindness, and Gratitude.
down the “highest” and “lowest” part of my day so I can reflect
and be grateful for both. I also challenge myself to do something
nice for another person and find something in each day that I can
be grateful for. Writing it down makes it easier to stay committed to
those goals and this shortened version of journaling is a much more manageable time commitment for me!
the TRIANGLE | fall 2017 7
empowered women
2016 Award Winners Bobbi Smith
Tabytha Russell
ALUMNAE AWARD WINNERS Individual Awards: Steadfast Alumna Citation: Bobbi Walker Smith, Alpha Epsilon, Denver Emily Gates Alumna Achievement: Clarissa Fithian Crozier, Iota, Denver Outstanding Alumna of the Region: Region 2: Pickett Whitney Lema, Alpha Lambda, Greater St. Louis Region 4: Sandra Koch Sandel, Alpha Phi, Central Michigan Alumnae Chapter Awards: Alumnae Chapter of the Year: Phoenix Metropolitan Member Recruitment: Denver Area Excellence in Overall Programming: Phoenix Metropolitan Outstanding Single Program: Chicago North Shore Excellence in Community Service: Phoenix Metropolitan Sisterhood Award for Alumnae Chapter in a College Town: Denver Sisterhood Award for Alumnae not in a College Town: Indianapolis Suburban COLLEGIATE AWARD WINNERS Collegiate Individual Awards: Mabel Lee Walton Leadership Award: Courtney Ann Powelson, Beta Epsilon Margaret Freeman Everett Outstanding Senior: Tabytha Nycole Russell, Alpha Iota Outstanding Member of the Region Region 2: Joanna Fernanda Giron, Epsilon Alpha Region 3: Natalie Christa Rabil, Gamma Xi Region 4: Sidney Leeann Collier, Alpha Iota Region 5: Mikayla Ryan Zaglaniczny, Epsilon Gamma
8 the TRIANGLE | fall 2017
Courtney Powelson
Clarissa Fithian Crozier
Outstanding Senior of the Region Region 1: Julie Helene Donnelly, Epsilon Chi Region 2: Taylor Marie Chadduck, Alpha Chi Region 3: Lisa Marie Olearczyk, Gamma Xi Region 5: Megan Ann Morris, Theta Theta Outstanding Advisor of the Region Region 1: Amanda Danielle Sabia, Epsilon Chi Region 2: Cindy Harms, Epsilon Alpha Region 3: Heather Fuller Baker, Gamma Xi Region 4: Melinda Dunard Horn, Nu Collegiate Chapter Awards: Chapter of the Year: Delta Pi Jane E. Kinderman Standards of Efficiency: Nu Membership Selection: Nu Member Development & Educational Programming: Nu Creative Education Program: Epsilon Chi Excellence in Community Service: Epsilon Chi Panhellenic Excellence: Alpha Iota Fraternity/Sorority Advisor of the Year: Kimberly Harris, Lockhaven University Ritual and Values Programming: Alpha Iota Chapter Advisory Board of the Year: Nu Pillar 4 Achievement Certificates: Alpha Zeta Alpha Iota Alpha Pi Alpha Chi Beta Delta Beta Xi Gamma Beta Gamma Xi Gamma Pi Delta Pi Epsilon Rho Zeta Alpha Zeta Kappa Eta Kappa Eta Xi Nu Omicron Pi Chi Above from left to right: Bobbi Walker Smith, Alpha Epsilon and Denver, recipient of the Steadfast Alumnae Citation. Tabytha Russell, Alpha Iota, recipient of the Margaret Freeman Everett Outstanding Senior award. Courtney Powelson, Beta Epsilon, recipient of the Mabel Lee Walton Leadership award. Clarissa Fithian Crozier, Iota and Denver, recipient of the Emily Gates Alumna Achievement award.
SCHOLARSHIP RING RECIPIENTS 2016-2017 Madeline Claire Aberg, Eta Theta, Gustavus Adolphus College Elizabeth Joy Adams, Zeta Tau, Missouri Western State University Annie Marie Allgaier, Zeta Tau, Missouri Western State University Alexis Lois Lachelle Armon, Alpha Iota, Northeastern State University Emily Marie Authement, Alpha Mu, University of Louisiana at Lafayette Brooke Ashley Bailey, Nu, University of Central Missouri Camile Joy Banez, Zeta Tau, Missouri Western State University Hannah Elizabeth Bauerschmidt, Alpha Mu, University of Louisiana at Lafayette Alana Yvonne Bell, Eta Tau, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Emily Adele Benton, Eta Chi, University of Missouri Danielle Bernice Bergfeld, Beta Xi, Southeast Missouri State University Brianna Nichole Biel, Epsilon Phi, University of North Carolina-Wilmington Alexa Michele Bode, Zeta Chi, Coastal Carolina University Mallory Renee Borel, Alpha Mu, University of Louisiana at Lafayette Erica Nichole Brade, Alpha Epsilon, Northwest Missouri State University Mary Beth Patrice Breihan, Beta Beta, Missouri State University Cassandra Elizabeth Brock, Alpha Beta, Kent State University Kaitlyn Teresa Brown, Zeta Chi, Coastal Carolina University Lauren Rae Brown, Nu, University of Central Missouri Grace Elisabeth Burris, Eta Chi, University of Missouri Jessica Sara Carlson, Mu, Truman State University Caitlin Nicole Carney, Beta Beta, Missouri State University Megan Leeann Carter, Alpha Epsilon, Northwest Missouri State University Stephanie Lee Chen, Theta Zeta, Case Western Reserve University Vanessa Ying Chen, Theta Zeta, Case Western Reserve University Carly Marie Collette, Delta Delta, University of North CarolinaChapel Hill Sidney Leeann Collier, Alpha Iota, Northeastern State University Taylor Nicole Collier, Alpha Iota, Northeastern State University Kelsey Lynn Cook, Zeta Gamma, Southeastern Oklahoma State University Elizabeth Paige Cronin, Epsilon Chi, Northeastern University Jessica Crosno, Alpha Chi, Murray State University Taylor Brooke Cunningham, Theta Alpha, High Point University Nicole Johanna D’Antonio, Eta Kappa, Texas Women’s University Megan Lynn Davidson, Zeta Eta, Winona State University Brandy Lee Davis, Beta Beta, Missouri State University Ashley Nicole Dawson, Alpha Chi, Murray State University Myranda Nicole Degraw, Alpha Zeta, Northwestern State University Kayla Marie Drew, Beta Xi, Southeast Missouri State University Christina Marie Dybas, Zeta Kappa, Montclair State University Paula Sanjuan Espejo, Eta Tau, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Jolene Marie Fadden, Epsilon Rho, Minnesota State University Kailee Morgan Falvo, Alpha Xi, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Chloe Elizabeth Fisher, Eta Upsilon, Lynchburg College Melissa Anne Ford, Alpha Chi, Murray State University Aylssa Marie Fox, Nu, University of Central Missouri Kayla Nicole Frohlich, Zeta Kappa, Montclair State University Sarah Frances Gandy, Alpha Zeta, Northwestern State University Jessica Erin Gangitano, Alpha, Longwood University Bridy Anne Garnon, Eta Sigma, Culver Stockton College Alyson Kay Gerstner, Nu, University of Central Missouri Catherine Ann Gettemeyer, Beta Xi, Southeast Missouri State University Ellen Elizabeth Gieselman, Beta Xi, Southeast Missouri State University Jennifer Lynn Gonzalez, Nu, University of Central Missouri Morgan Taylor Gotsch, Nu, University of Central Missouri Bailey Elaine Greenaberg, Epsilon Omicron, Illinois State University
Daliah Jaye Greenwald, Theta Zeta, Case Western Reserve University Alyssa Jean Grelle, Nu, University of Central Missouri Ashley Marie Griffiths, Beta Xi, Southeast Missouri State University Rachel Ellen Hagen, Zeta Tau, Missouri Western State University Yuntian Han, Theta Zeta, Case Western Reserve University McKinley Nicole Hawkinson, Alpha Chi, Murray State University Grace Catherine Heffner, Theta Alpha, High Point University Ashley Taylor Hembrock, Theta Delta, Lindenwood University Mackenzie Rae Herrman, Zeta Tau, Missouri Western State University Kellie Scout Higley, Alpha Epsilon, Northwest Missouri State University Heather Lynn Hines, Epsilon Rho, Minnesota State University Hailey Ann Hodges, Eta Kappa, Texas Women’s University Marissa Jo Hotujac, Mu, Truman State University Kathleen Elizabeth Howland, Beta Xi, Southeast Missouri State University Hannah Jane Huckeby, Alpha Chi, Murray State University Sarah Elizabeth Irby, Eta Upsilon, Lynchburg College Kassie Denise Jacobs, Gamma Mu, Southeastern Louisiana University Rachel Eileen Johnson, Delta Eta, University of Southern Indiana Emily Rachel Kaplan, Epsilon Omicron, Northwest Missouri State University Monica Lynn Katnik, Mu, Truman State University Rachael Nicole Kennedy, Theta Delta, Lindenwood University Shannon Elizabeth Kobal, Beta Xi, Southeast Missouri State University Shelbi Renee Koelling, Theta Delta, Lindenwood University Reagan Kay Koury, Alpha Zeta, Northwestern State University Julia Marie Kramer, Eta Theta, Gustavus Adolphus College Kayla Marie Kramer, Nu, University of Central Missouri Samantha Marie Kropp, Alpha Beta, Kent State University Madi Elaine Kruse, Alpha Chi, Murray State University Katherine Ann Kucera, Epsilon Phi, University of North Carolina-Wilmington Victoria N. LaFave, Alpha Omicron, University of Central Arkansas Kaitlyn Danielle LaRocca, Theta Delta, Lindenwood University Lauren Holly Lahm, Alpha Chi, Murray State University Amanda Cherie Lally, Gamma Mu, Southeastern Louisiana University Kenedy Lyn Lampert, Alpha Zeta, Northwestern State University Lacy Marie Larsen, Alpha Epsilon, Northeastern State University Jessica Jade Lasater, Alpha Omicron, University of Central Arkansas Rachel Emily Laveson, Theta Zeta, Case Western Reserve University Sarah Elliott Lawrence, Alpha Chi, Murray State University Taylor Morgan Lay, Mu, Truman State University Kaitlin Nicole Lienhart, Alpha Omicron, University of Central Arkansas Jade Marie Lubinski, Eta Tau, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Ellen Peat MacLean, Epsilon Nu, The University of North Carolina at Greensboro Chelsea Nicole Maielli, Alpha Zeta, Northwestern State University Ashlyn Noel May, Eta Sigma, Culver-Stockton College Halley Kristen Mayfield, Nu, University of Central Missouri Taylor Alexis Mclean, Gamma Mu, Southeastern Louisiana University Marissa Mulvaney, Nu, University of Central Missouri Sarah V. Newton, Alpha Epsilon, Northwest Missouri State University Makenzie Nicole Mayall, Epsilon Omicron, Illinois State University Victoria Danielle McCarthy, Epsilon Phi, University of North Carolina-Wilmington Hope Caroline Meanix, Lambda, Indiana University of Pennsylvania Madison Fair Milligan, Alpha Zeta, Northwestern State University Erica Marie Mullins, Alpha Chi, Murray State University Jenna Christine Muntifering, Eta Theta, Gustavus
Adolphus College Abby Savannah Murdock, Alpha Chi, Murray State University Marielle Katherine Nackley, Lambda, Indiana University of Pennsylvania Hope Kathryn Noll, Theta Delta, Lindenwood University Danielle Virginia Nunnery, Epsilon Pi, Presbyterian College Brittany Nicole O’Connell, Eta Upsilon, Lynchburg College Dana Mari Panganiban, Alpha Upsilon, James Madison University Raleigh Elizabeth Parker, Alpha Chi, Murray State University Kaitlyn Leighann Pavlica, Nu, University of Central Missouri Kjersten Joy Piper, Eta Theta, Gustavus Adolphus College Kramer Aileen Ragsdale, Alpha Epsilon, Northwest Missouri State University Jordynn Michelle Rascoe, Beta Xi, Southeast Missouri State University Brooke Renee Reeves, Beta Xi, Southeast Missouri State University Madeline Marie Reichmuth, Beta Xi, Southeast Missouri State University Abigail Ann Rhodes, Nu, University of Central Missouri Billie Sarah Richard, Alpha Mu, University of Louisiana at Lafayette Jessica R. Robinson, Gamma Mu, Southeastern Louisiana University Erin Elizabeth Rodgers, Epsilon Psi, Rochester Institute of Technology Madeline Marie Rolli, Eta Chi, University of Missouri Haley Kristen Russell, Nu, University of Central Missouri Hannah Elizabeth Saputo, Theta Delta, Lindenwood University Elspeth Christina Sarro, Eta Xi, Ursinus College Alyssa Lauren Scaggs, Theta Zeta, Case Western Reserve University Kristyn Ashley Schlicher, Zeta Chi, Coastal Carolina University Mallory Jordan Schwartz, Theta Alpha, High Point University Candace Katherine Shepard, Alpha Psi, Eastern Illinois University Sabrena Nichole Shipley, Beta Beta, Missouri State University Amanda Smith, Theta Zeta, Case Western Reserve University Kayla Dawn Smith, Zeta Gamma, Southeastern Oklahoma State University Shelby Rene Smith, Alpha Iota, Northwest Missouri State University Krystal Monique Speights, Epsilon Nu, The University of North Carolina at Greensboro Gabrielle Christa Steich, Delta Upsilon, Widener University Lindsay Nicole Stephens, Eta Upsilon, Lynchburg College Jenna Lynn Stokes, Alpha Psi, Eastern Illinois University Allison Marie Sweeney, Alpha Chi, Murray State University Sabrina Kay Thompson, Eta Sigma, Culver-Stockton College Crystal Kaylan Tracy, Mu, Truman State University Kaylee Nicole Uthoff, Alpha Chi, Murray State University Kara Elizabeth Van Horn, Alpha Chi, Murray State University Morgan Lyn Waibel, Alpha Epsilon, Northwest Missouri State University Kaitlyn Brianna Watson, Alpha Chi, Murray State University Hannah Sue Weber, Alpha Chi, Murray State University Anna Louise Wehr, Eta Upsilon, Lynchburg College Marissa M. Weiss, Theta Gamma, McKendree University Miranda Taylor Whitworth, Alpha Chi, Murray State University Hannah Danielle Wilburn, Alpha Epsilon, Northwest Missouri State University Hannah Elizabeth Wilke, Beta Beta, Missouri State University Margaret Cooper Wiltse, Theta Delta, Lindenwood University Rachel Catherine Witt, Eta Theta, Gustavus Adolphus College Sara Ashley Worrill, Theta Eta, Old Dominion University Cara Michelle Worsham, Zeta Gamma, Southeastern Oklahoma State University Taylor M. Wright, Theta Gamma, McKendree University Rachel Nicole York, Beta Beta, Missouri State University
the TRIANGLE | fall 2017 9
empowered women
By Amanda Marchegiani, Beta Xi
Women of Leadership:
A Historical Look at Tri Sigma’s Consultants
SSS
Let’s go back to the beginning. Tri Sigma’s
consultant program began in 1931. Think
back to what was happening at this time in our country. Herbert Hoover was the
President of the United States. According to the History Channel, even though
President Hoover spoke about his hope
for the country’s future in his inaugural address,
Our eight Founders built our sisterhood on a solid foundation valuing and . Our values still guide our sisterhood today, and the women who have been part of Tri Sigma’s consultant program encompass our values daily in their positions. These young women continue to shape our sisterhood and chapters across the country.
love
wisdom, power, faith, hope,
recruitment to sisterhood and everything in-between. Consultants truly need to navigate each chapter and see how they can fit the
needs of the chapter. It’s a rewarding position for sisters to hold, and exciting to know you are impacting the sorority on a national level.
Below you’ll read some stories from consultants through the
decades but please note, this article is merely a small snapshot of some of our consultants and their stories.
the Great Depression began the same year he
took office. Banks and businesses were failing and the nationwide unemployment rates rose
from three percent in 1929 to 23 percent in 1932.
Americans were losing their jobs, homes, savings, and their faith and hope in the country.
While the rest of the country was searching for hope, Tri Sigma
remained steadfast. In 1931, Julia Raiguel, Psi and Omega, became the first consultant. From the 1930s to the early 1990s, the program
grew from one consultant to up to 10. Each year, women from across the country apply for the opportunity to be a consultant and guide
new and well established chapters to reach their full potential, from Above from top to bottom: Portrait of President Herbert Hoover. The Migrant Mother, a photo by Dorothea Lange.
10 the TRIANGLE | fall 2017
Through the years of 1931-1941, The John Randolph School Library was designated our National social service project. Our triennial plan was developed, and Charm
School established. Our executive office moved to Clermont, Florida and we had our first Honor Initiate, formerly called The Convention Honor Pledge. Additionally, Tri Sigma
established the Emily Gates Alumna Achievement Award and nine new chapters were added from Alpha Mu to Alpha Upsilon.
Melanie Hocking, Gamma Kappa, 1973-1974 When Melanie was working for Tri Sigma, the
consultant program was referred to as Traveling
Alpha Theta, to this day. Their friendship started before becoming
Field Representatives. Coyne served in 1983-1984 while Taylor was
the President of her collegiate chapter. The two women were reunited
Secretaries. Hocking spent time at the Iota Chapter at the University
as roommates after a bit of a hiatus at the 2016 National Convention.
to reestablish the chapter and worked with the Dean of Students on
Tri Sigma as she went on to be a member of The Triangle Magazine
of Colorado, where she was also a graduate student. She worked
Taylor’s role helped to introduce her to leadership roles in
campus. One of her fondest memories was spending time with
staff and now works with the Tri Sigma Foundation.
with her family. The second half of her year, Hocking visited chapters
consultant role with some of the most valuable skills that led to
Past National President Mary Barbee, Iota, in Greeley and Aspen
After 30 years in the corporate world, Taylor credits the
in Minnesota, North Dakota, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania. She
promotions and success within her career.
found it fascinating to learn about each chapter, the unique culture
at each campus, and what types of social and service activities the
Reatha Cole Cox, Alpha Zeta, 1987-1988
chapters hosted.
Reatha remembers
Hocking’s consultant experience not only opened her eyes to
the bigger picture of what Tri Sigma looks like, but it helped give
how educational the
her the skills to propel her career. She taught advanced high school
traveling was as a Field Representative;
selected as the 1995 Ohio Teacher of the Year, received a Milken
using a typewriter to fill out reports, and
Teacher Award, traveled to Japan for a summer as a member of the
be mailed to National Headquarters. If you
government, and spent four summers at the Harvard Graduate
often would search for a pay phone and try
lines to rebook flights.
for 35 years. She presented at many teaching conferences, was
from having one suitcase full of manuals,
National Educator’s Award, received the USA Today National
having carbon copies that would need to
inaugural Fulbright Teacher’s Program sponsored by the Japanese
missed a flight during this time period, you
School of Education.
to get other arrangements or wait in long
confidence she has carried with her throughout her entire career.
about her Tri Sigma story.
has maintained friendships with the advisors and women she worked
Hocking attributes her time as a traveling secretary to the
Hocking is happily retired now in Ohio and wouldn’t change anything
Lori Yokich Taylor, Omicron, 1984-1985 When Lori was a Field Representative
Reatha Cox, right, cherished her friendships made as a consultant.
One of her fondest moments is when she worked closely with
the Gamma Pi Chapter during their redevelopment. To this day, she
with during those years. She was able to attend their 50th Anniversary celebration and reconnect with some of the women she worked with during her time as a Field Representative. As a representative, Cox
had her first experience visiting the Mabel Lee Walton House and our
there were only three other representatives, so
National Headquarters which only deepened her love for Tri Sigma.
about 40 Tri Sigma chapters. This experience gave
at our Heart Home.
US, broadened her view on the National Panhellenic
member and to see the country is such a unique experience I’ll never
individuals in Greek Life.
much to me.”
Karen Jackson McKewon, Alpha Iota, arranged for representatives
education; she worked as an Admissions Counselor, an Assistant
for Mardi Gras. Seymour had costumes and it was a once in a
as Executive Director of The First Year Experience and Leadership
Representatives, the team was very close and Taylor has maintained
Executive Council member from 2001-2007.
she managed to travel from coast to coast visiting
She cherishes her time spent with her fellow representatives together
Lori the opportunity to see many new cities in the
Conference, and gave her a new perspective on
forget ,” she said. “The friendships and relationships I’ve built mean so
One of Taylor’s fondest memories was when her coordinator,
“The opportunity to be a representative and a Tri Sigma staff
Today, Cox has over 30 years of experience working in higher
to stay with Ann Hammond Seymour, Gamma Mu, in Louisiana
Director for Student Activities, Director of Greek Life, and now serves
lifetime experience. Being such a small but mighty team of Field
Development at Northwestern State University. Cox is also a past
a friendship with her fellow Field Representative Lori Hess Coyne,
the TRIANGLE | fall 2017 11
empowered women
Mandi Hulme Dilling, Pi Chapter, 2007-2008 When Mandi worked for
a consultant, she works full-time as the Director of Leadership and Education for Beta Theta Pi Fraternity. Dilling has been able to use
Tri Sigma, she was one of five consultants.
skills she was teaching to women as a consultant to record a webinar
Convention held in Nashville, Tennessee,
Theta Pi Fraternity.
Their first event was the 2007 National
focused on officer elections and transition best practices for Beta
where consultants were on crowd control as our Sigma sister, Carrie Underwood, Alpha
Caitlin Dobson, Alpha Xi, 2010-2011
a.m. In the early morning hours, Carrie was
While Caitlin was a consultant, she was one
schedules were four to six weeks and then one to two weeks back
Iota, spoke and signed autographs until 2:30 gracious enough to take a photo with all of the consultants.
After convention, the work schedule was pretty regimented and
of four women serving. Consultant travel
followed a seven-day cycle, arrive on Sunday and meet the entire
at National Headquarters. Dobson found it helpful to be able to
and chairman meetings, use Thursday and Fridays as “break days”
that would pile up while being on the road. It also allowed for the
Saturday the chapter would have an eight-hour retreat. While at a
This activity allows women to anonymously show love to a sister by
to pursue a career in
tears watching the love shown to women in the chapter throughout
student affairs were
allowed Dilling to see the power and diversity within our sisterhood.
experience. She attended
Georgia where most of the retreat consisted of dancing and playing
earn a master’s degree in
that they were starting to forget the fun part of being a Tri Sigma.
assistant in fraternity and sorority life. After graduating in 2013
the fact that each chapter has the same Tri Sigma values. She always
Director of Student Involvement and Fraternity and Sorority Life
past four years.
chapter, spend Monday through Wednesday conducting officer
come back to Headquarters to finish reports and administrative tasks
and to build a custom leadership retreat for the chapter, and on
consultants to build strong relationships and problem solve together.
visit, a chapter participated in an activity known as “Touch a Sigma.”
as a consultant, her plans
tapping her on the shoulder for a variety of prompts. Dilling was in
higher education and
this activity. The women were intentional with their selections and
solidified from her
One of her most memorable retreats took place at a chapter in
Indiana State University to
games. This chapter was very new and focused on rules so much
student affairs and higher education and worked as a graduate
Dilling loved how each week was different in her role, but similar in
with her degree, Dobson obtained the position of Assistant
felt so welcomed and part of each chapter she visited.
at Loyola University New Orleans. She has been there for the
laptop and cell phone to help her do her job well. Since Wi-Fi wasn’t
insert into her computer when needing wireless on demand. Dilling
such a firm judgment from the start. Her experience developed her
Zeta, being lost in Brooklyn, New York, and stopping on the side
who she is today.
While traveling through her year as a consultant, Dilling used a
After Dobson’s year
Caitlin Dobson, second from left, pictured with the consultant team.
Dobson’s experience as a consultant for Tri Sigma allowed
as accessible as it is today, she used Verizon cards that she would
her to think more in depth about every situation and not to have
remembers she and fellow consultant Jeni Anderson Spragis, Alpha
both personally and professionally, and without it, she wouldn’t be
of the curb to pop in the Verizon card in a last minute effort to get
directions to where they needed to be. In addition to Verizon cards for internet access, each consultant traveled with
Sarah Cummins, Zeta Kappa, 2014-2015
one suit, a dozen badge attire outfits, and one ritual attire outfit.
Sarah was a new chapter and extension regional
consultant and spent most of her time in Evansville, Indiana, to
She was planning to go into advertising but after only
help reestablish the Delta Eta Chapter at the University of Southern
student affairs and higher education. Currently, 10 years after being
Chapter at Case Western Reserve University.
Dilling changed her entire career path after being a consultant.
four months as a consultant, she applied to a graduate program in
12 the TRIANGLE | fall 2017
Indiana. She was also part of the installation team at the Theta Zeta
3 7
2
14
5
1
1
11 19 3
1
5
16
7
11 7
6 18 16
4
5 3
6
1
3
7
5
23
Consultant Numbers
6
The experience was
Cummins’ experience helped her see what Tri Sigma truly is and how
incredibly rewarding as it
it’s a lifelong commitment and not just four years of college.
pushed Cummins out of her
New Jersey comfort zone and
Headquarters with fellow consultant, Katie Martin, Gamma Pi. The
she attended her first fried
Cummins felt rewarded after
One of Cummins’ fondest memories from her time as a
consultant was traveling back from Evansville to our National
into southern Indiana where food festival in Evansville.
Check out the number of consultants we have had from states across our great country!
ending event of their time as consultants culminated with the 50th Sarah Cummins, seventh from the left, photographed with the consultant team.
her year of being a consultant
and concluded with the Delta Eta Chapter fully installed and ready for their first official recruitment that fall. It was incredible to know that
the great women that started the chapter were going to create their
own legacy and make their chapter, and Tri Sigma as a whole, proud.
anniversary of the Mabel Lee Walton House. That was a weekend she will never forget.
This position allowed Cummins to share her passions and
to empower every woman she met to do the same and reach her potential. After her year of serving as a consultant she had the
confidence to sign up to be a team lead in the AmeriCorps National
Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) and give back to her community.
It’s clear to see each woman had an impactful experience as a consultant, and the experience even helped navigate some to
positions in higher education and Greek Life. Since the inception of the program, there have been 226 Tri Sigma women who have taken on this role. Although it might not be the easiest job, it is one of the most rewarding positions for women in our sorority.
Follow Tri Sigma on social media to see the journey and adventures of our 2017-2018 consultants. Applications are open for the
2018-2019 consultant team and we encourage everyone looking for a truly rewarding job and career to apply.
the TRIANGLE | fall 2017 13
empowered women
Be the
By Amanda Marchegiani, Beta Xi
Gutsy Girl
Merriam-Webster defines
gutsy as marked by courage, pluck, or determination (a gutsy little
fighter, a gutsy decision) and expressing or characterized by basic physical senses or passions. Kate White is the epitome of a gustsy girl in the workplace. She ran Cosmopolitan magazine for 14 years as well as written New York Times bestselling career books and murder mysteries, and living a life of purpose and full of gutsy choices has been at the core of everything she does. Her books have helped me through my career thus far. I believe that with continuous focus on the areas of passion, verbal and body language, continuous education, and professional development, you too can begin to live a more gutsy life. Find and Share Your Passion
Be Conscious of Verbal Language and Body Language
When you find your passion, your work will shine and be
Verbal language and body language can tell the world a lot about
see through the way someone acts and speaks. Do you know
affect their perception of you. As a society, we are often judged
undeniable to others around you. Passion is something you can what your passion is yet?
“You need to figure out when you’re in the zone, when time
flies for you, when you love what you’re doing at a given moment,” says White. “This will help point you to your passion.”
White loves creating. From small projects, to novels, White’s
passion is apparent. Her passion for creating ideas and writing is what makes her wake up early each day and get to work. To
her, it’s not work; it’s her reason for existence. White has shared
her passion with others as she ran Cosmopolitan, and continues to share through writing mysteries, psychological thrillers, and
books on careers and success. Over the years, White has stayed
focused on her main goal; doing what she loves. Even today, she still finds the bliss in what she does.
White believes in helping young women find their passion.
you. The way you stand, sit, and interact with coworkers can
on first impressions: the first 10 to 15 seconds when someone
meets us. But sometimes nervous body language disguises our competence and passion, and it’s important to eliminate verbal and body language fears you might have, you must build your
confidence and awareness. White recommends working on your verbal language and body language by rehearsing with a friend or even videotaping yourself. This will help you see how you
look when you speak and how you respond to questions both
verbally and nonverbally. In addition, White advises to check your voicemail and hear how you sound to ensure its upbeat, friendly, and showcasing your gutsy self.
“Awareness is essential. You need to continue to build your
confidence. Stand tall, don’t act small, and be expansive.”
“We must teach young women to own their ambition and
Continue to Educate Yourself
Oftentimes, we are more ready for the next step than we allow
college, or your doctorate. Continuous education or professional
embrace their excellence. We also need to accept our readiness.
Education doesn’t stop once you complete high school, and
ourselves to think. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you want, and
development are necessary as you continue to grow, change
grab the prize when it’s there for the taking.”
14 the TRIANGLE | fall 2017
careers, buy a car, buy a house, and more.
Without continuous education you might not try new things
or reach out of your comfort zone. I’m sure you can recall a time where you were thankful you tried a new hobby or changed to a new company, or even a new brand of laundry detergent.
Education is not only in the formal sense but also in the
relationship of a mentor. White mentioned that you shouldn’t be afraid to study successful people’s careers to understand when
and why they made certain moves. She has used her relationships
with great bosses and contacts to have them introduce her to new contacts or even ask for a reference when she needs it. White has learned that gratitude has helped her along her career path.
White has written “Why Good Girls Don’t Get Ahead but
Gutsy Girls Do” and “I Shouldn’t Be Telling You This: How to Ask for the Money, Snag the Promotion, and Create the Career You Deserve,” both of which specifically focus on gutsiness in the
workplace and how to ask for what you want. Her books share stories and tips from her own personal experiences.
Some of the most useful books White used are “How to
Get Control of Your Time and Your Life” by Alan Lakein, “The 22 Immutable Laws of Marketing” by Al Reis and Jack Trout, and
“10-10-10: A Life Transforming Idea” by Suzy Welch. White was
inspired by “Sex and the Single Girl” by Helen Gurley Brown, the woman who reinvented Cosmo so brilliantly. White’s mom gave
it to her when she was 16 and suggested she use Gurley Brown
as a role model, never imagining White would take her so literally. One of White’s favorite books for aspiring leaders is “Executive
Presence” by Silvia Ann Hewlett, in which Hewlett talks about how to dress and speak for the job you desire. White suggests looking for articles, books, and even videos, such as TED Talk videos, to help you be more gutsy.
In the end, no matter where you are in your career or life, you
can always work to be a gustier girl. The three focus topics in
this piece are merely the tipping point to allow you to think more
deeply about how you can be more gutsy in your life. I advise you to look to White and her writing; she’s passionate about her work
and continues to challenge herself on every level. Her perspective might make you think differently, raise questions for yourself, and help you find more ways to be your gutsy self.
ABOUT KATE WHITE Kate White is the New York Times bestselling author of 12 works of fiction: seven Bailey Weggins mysteries, including the upcoming “Even If It Kills Her” (Oct. 31, 2017), and five standalone psychological thrillers, including most recently, “The Secrets You Keep” (March 2017). Her next career book, “The Gutsy Girl Handbook,” will be out next April.
For 14 years she was the editor-in-chief of Cosmopolitan
magazine, and though she loved the job (and the Cosmo beauty closet!), she decided to leave in late 2013 to concentrate full time on being an author and speaker.
In addition to writing mysteries and thrillers, White is the
author of several very popular and bestselling career books, including “I Shouldn’t Be Telling You This: How to Ask for the Money, Snag the Promotion, and Create the Career You Deserve” and “Why Good Girls Don’t Get Ahead but Gutsy Girls Do.”
“One of the most important things a leader can do is listen.” the TRIANGLE | fall 2017 15
leadership
Mentorship: A Two-Sided Coin a mentee’s perspective
By Catherine “Cat” Cojocaru, Eta Chi
Some of the best relationships in our lives we come into by
chance. Other times, we meet amazing people when we push
ourselves outside of our comfort zones. My time in Tri Sigma, and the incredible guidance I’ve gained from my membership, have been products of amazing luck and hard work.
I joined Sigma at the end of my freshman year, and by the
start of sophomore year’s fall recruitment season, I still did not
know many of my fellow sisters. A scheduling conflict and stroke of good fortune meant that my initiation was scheduled during
work week—the intense seven days of preparation before formal
recruitment begins. The last-minute scheduling change meant that
a former chapter president and recent alumna were asked to assist with the ritual.
My initiation came and went, luckily with minimal stress. After,
I was introduced to officer board members I hadn’t met yet, and
the mythical Sam Green—the alumna everyone kept talking about. Tall with silky brown hair and a booming laugh, coupled with a
strong southern Missouri accent, she embraced me and welcomed me into our chapter. Little did I know how important this human
being would become to me, not only with Sigma-related things, but with pretty much every aspect of my life.
The semesters began to fly, and with the encouragement of
my sisters, Sam included, I began to come out of my shell. By
second semester of my sophomore year, I was Founders Day Chair and Alumnae Relations Chair for Eta Chi. My friendship with Sam
began to blossom into a kind of mentor-mentee relationship for the first time. I quickly learned we were both ambitious, funny, justiceminded, big-hearted, and wanted to make a difference in our
communities. As she was three years ahead of me in school, she let me know what to look out for—both in terms of opportunities and how to not make mistakes she had made when she was in
my shoes. We hung out as frequently as her law school schedule would allow, and every day I felt lucky to have made such an amazing friend.
16 the TRIANGLE | fall 2017
Inspired by my relationship with Sam, I formulated an informal
virtual mentorship program for Eta Chi. In the fall of 2014, around 50 alumnae signed up to be paired with nearly 70 collegiate
members. I made matches based on majors/careers, interests, personalities, and other survey data. Each pairing or group of
mentors and mentees completed activities on a weekly basis—
either digitally or in person—that helped the collegiate members with everything from professional development to their personal lives. Despite a few organizational kinks in the beginning, the
program was more successful than I could’ve dreamed, and still
continues today. I signed up as well, of course, and paired myself with Sam.
Around this time, I was beginning to question my future
career goals. I was a junior in the Missouri School of Journalism at Mizzou, in the same department from which Sam had graduated. I truly enjoyed writing, and loved my dual political science major
as well. But it became clear that I didn’t want to be a journalist or political pundit when I graduated. Thoughts began to creep into my mind—“Sam seems to be doing pretty well in law school,” I
thought. “It seems like she likes it and knows what she wants to do, and it all seems really cool. I bet I could do that.”
a mentor’s perspective
Even though we had already been friends for about two years
at this point, my friendship with Sam only got stronger as I went
By Me (Sam Green), Eta Chi
through the process of applying to law school. Through every
terrible LSAT practice test and stressful admissions application, to every tear-filled phone call, she was there to talk me through it. When I was too stressed out to function, she came over
and helped me clean my apartment. She gave me testing tips,
application advice, and let me crash at her house when my noisy upstairs neighbors made studying close to impossible.
By January of 2016, all my applications were in, including
to Mizzou Law, and the waiting game began. I found out pretty
quickly about a couple schools I got into, and a few I was rejected from. By March, I was still
I recoiled the first time Cat called me her mentor. At 23, I thought
I was far too young and inexperienced to be mentoring anyone—I barely had my life together! The thought of helping shape another person’s life made me nauseous. We were having dinner and met
up with a few of Cat’s friends; I don’t know if I was more surprised by my introduction or by their total acceptance of the title I found so odd.
I was introduced to Catherine after assisting with her initiation
ritual just a few days before my law school orientation was set to begin. She was bright-
waiting to hear back from
eyed, eager, and just a
Mizzou, and the anxiety
little bit nervous; as an
began to eat at me. But
already-jaded 1L, I found
one afternoon, I finally
this quite endearing. She
got the call—from Sam
was clearly ready to serve,
herself—who was
and I knew her energy and
working in the admissions
drive would bring a lot to
office at the time. Every
our chapter.
long night, every minute
I honestly thought
of doubt, every hour of
that would be the last I’d
lost sleep had paid off—
see of Cat for a while.
I was offered a spot in
Although my 1L schedule
the incoming 1L class at Mizzou Law.
I’m happy to say that
I survived my first year
kept me increasingly busy,
Cat (pictured left) and Sam (pictured
I found my conversations
right)
of law school. I’m not
have been able to do it. Without Sam’s guidance, I wouldn’t have had the courage or confidence to wake up every morning of 1L
year and confront some of the most difficult material I’ve ever had to learn. Without Sam, I wouldn’t have had the strength to face some really difficult things during undergrad, from academics and friendships to loss and stress. Without Sam, the Eta Chi
mentorship program wouldn’t exist, I probably wouldn’t have had
the confidence to pursue the leadership roles I did— both in Sigma and on campus at large— and without Sam, in the simplest sense, I wouldn’t be a Sigma. I wouldn’t be me if not for Samantha, and I wouldn’t have her without Sigma. I’m so glad that I took that leap
of faith in August 2013, because now we’ve been friends for nearly four life-changing years, and I can’t wait to see where the road ahead takes us.
rewarding and increasingly frequent. We had a lot in
exaggerating when I say
it’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done; without Sigma, I wouldn’t
with her to be very
common and she asked
a lot of questions, but what impressed me most was the fact that
she actually seemed interested in my answers and advice. She had a giant heart, a soft spot for the people she loved, and insisted on making the world a kinder place. I thought back to my pre-jaded
days and thought about the things I wish I’d known—so I took her under my wing.
Looking back, I’m not even sure what that means, but that day I made a conscious decision to invest in Cat however I could. I knew my schedule wouldn’t allow me to give as much as I’d like to, but I figured that giving something was better than nothing at all. This mostly involved giving quick advice or sending ridiculous memes back and forth over text. When she was overwhelmed, I would call or stop by her apartment if I had a half hour to spare. We’d meet up periodically during the run-up to large projects, during her applications, or just as check-ins during trying seasons.
the TRIANGLE | fall 2017 17
leadership
In the grand scheme of things, this didn’t take a lot of time out
of my everyday life, and I gained as much as I gave, if not more. I gave a few moments a week to respond to emails or texts and used a few study breaks to meet up with Cat and re-caffeinate
before going back to the library. I gained a really great friend and an unshakable sense of pride in watching her grow. If that alone doesn’t sell you on mentorship, I don’t know what will.
But in case you need an extra push— let me tell you about
two very cool things that happened during the spring of Cat’s senior year of college.
Three years prior, during my senior year, I was honored with
the Mizzou ’39 Award— a distinction presented by the Mizzou
Alumni Association to the top 39 graduating seniors each year. At the elaborate banquet, the students, their families, and their “Mizzou Mentor” are all recognized and celebrated. Like most students, I picked a professor to attend the banquet with me.
When Cat received the award in 2016, she chose me. In a
serendipitously full-circle moment, we were able to attend the
banquet together as friends, as sisters, and as the coolest (and youngest) mentorship pairing in the room. I spent the evening
bragging on Cat to her mom and anyone else who would listen.
My heart was bursting with pride to see her accomplishments and hard work finally recognized and rewarded.
Just days after the banquet, I was greeted with a surprise
when I showed up to my work study shift in the law school
admissions office. Not only had Cat been accepted to Mizzou Law, I got to make the call and give her the news. During my time in
the admissions office, I listened in on dozens of acceptance calls, and they were always heartwarming and hilarious. But none can
compare to the confusion, joy, and shock of Cat’s reaction to the
chapter or Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. You can even start
coffee date.
know how to be a good friend and a good sister, and that’s what I
in young women, the better. And the reward of seeing Sigmas
a mentor, and there’s certainly no age or distance restrictions. All
news of her acceptance when she thought I was calling about a
within your own family!
Cat’s spring up all across the country, because the more we invest
To this day, I have no idea how to be a good mentor—but I do
It’s my hope that we can see mentor/mentee programs like
try to do in general, but especially for young Sigmas.
grow simply cannot be beat. There’s no experience required to be
reaching out to the young women in your life. I think it’s beautiful
that’s needed is a little kindness, courage, and commitment on
believe it or not, you have knowledge, skills, and insights that need
opportunities for you to invest in Sigmas and young women in your
You don’t have to know what you’re doing to make a difference.
Don’t let fear or a lack of experience hold you back from
and powerful when women grow and learn from each other, and
your end.
to be passed on. Any age, any background, there are a plethora of
prospect of mentorship, take it from someone who’s been there:
And if you ever find yourself panicked at a dinner table at the
area! Not sure where to start? Reach out to your local alumnae
Are you looking to make a difference in the life of a fellow Tri Sigma? Tri Sigma mentor opportunities will soon be available.
18 the TRIANGLE | fall 2017
Compassion It & Tri Sigma Together let’s change the world one compassionate act at a time Last year, Tri Sigma and the Character Advocates joined with COMPASSION IT to help further our vision of changing the world and our mission of developing women of character. Join us this October and help us make compassion a verb and a movement! Contact Headquarters at 540.459.4212 or sigma@trisigma.org to request your wristband.
How it works:
1
e. w ear on Request your PURPLE and WHITE wristband today.
2 share one. Your package will contain two wristbands. Keep one and give one away.
3 compassion it. Seek out ways to sprinkle compassion throughout your day. Start the wristband on white each morning, and turn it to PURPLE when you COMPASSION IT!
4
spread it. Inspire others with your pics and stories! #TriSigma #compassionit #CharacterCounts
WAYS TO COMPASSION IT • Offer your full attention to someone • Express sincere gratitude to a friend • Greet a stranger with a smile and kind word • Text a beautiful photo to someone • Practice compassionate listening • Send a letter of encouragement • Have compassion for our planet • Compliment someone • Be kind to yourself
REQUEST YOUR TRI SIGMA COMPASSION IT WRISTBAND TODAY! the TRIANGLE | fall 2017 19
leadership
Pictured left to right: Allyson Carr, Psi; Allison Parks, Alpha Epsilon; Catherine Till, Eta Omicron; Annie Verry, Beta Beta; Aileen Toomey, Delta Chi; Kailea Marshall, Zeta Gamma; Taylor Wilson, Alpha Epsilon; Stephanie Blair, Delta Delta. Not Pictured: Courtney Powelson, Beta Epsilon.
t l u s n Co Meet the new
20 the TRIANGLE | fall 2017
tants
SENIOR CONSULTANTS Stephanie Blair, Delta Delta, University of North Carolina Aileen Toomey, Delta Chi, University of Virginia
SECOND YEAR CONSULTANTS Catherine Till, Eta Omicron, Sam Houston State University Kailea Marshall, Zeta Gamma, Southeastern Oklahoma University Taylor Wilson, Alpha Epsilon, Northwest Missouri State University
FIRST YEAR CONSULTANTS Allyson Car, Psi, Marshall University Allison Parks, Alpha Epsilon, Northwest Missouri State University Courtney Powelson*, Beta Epsilon, Western Illinois University Annie Verry, Beta Beta, Missouri State University From our first chapter (Alpha), to our newest chapter (Theta Iota), the consultant team will cross numerous state lines and travel countless miles. Follow their travels and meet the chapters they work with on Instagram at @TriSigmaConsultants. APPLY NOW Applications for the 2018-2019 consultant positions must be submitted no later than January 15, 2018. Information regarding the process and the link to the application is available at bit.ly/1819consultants. A complete application packet includes the submission of a cover letter, resume, photo, and two letters of recommendation from a campus professional and a Tri Sigma advisor. Alumnae: Regardless of her year in school, you can refer a collegiate. The consultant referral form is available on the Tri Sigma website. * Not thepictured TRIANGLE
| fall 2017 21
leadership
By Amanda Marchegiani, Beta Xi
Labyrinth Leadership Experience 2017 “From the outside looking in, you can never understand it. From the inside looking out, you can never explain it.” - Unknown This quote speaks volumes when it comes to the Labyrinth Leadership Experience. Prior to my participation this year, I couldn’t understand why past participants had reunions at
National Sigma events or took photos every time they were able to reconnect. Now, I completely understand it.
Imagine being surrounded by women from all across the
country that have come together for the love of our sisterhood
and are ready to learn and grow. Each woman has the same love for Tri Sigma as you do. For five days, you get to learn about
each other and explore Tri Sigma values together. It’s amazing what kind of work and creations come out of women working together and building each other up. The entire experience gave me a new perspective.
Before our Labyrinth journey, I thought I was well connected
to Tri Sigma being a coach for Officer Academy, attending
Conventions, and being the features editor for this magazine. I knew the experience would change me; I just wasn’t quite sure how.
The 2017 participants enjoy living Tri Sigma’s values while exploring Washington D.C.
My Labyrinth sisters are my new chapter of Sigma sisters. I’d do anything for each of them. They can call me and I’ll be there for them. I talk to them daily and we are part of each other’s lives even after our experience.
If you are reading this thinking you can’t love Tri Sigma any
more than you do right now, I encourage you to apply for this
exceptional experience. I guarantee you it will allow your love to
grow even more for our sisterhood. I can wholeheartedly say that my love for myself, my sisters, and for Tri Sigma has grown from
this experience. Now, I stand a bit taller, speak more confidently, listen a little more, and look at the world with eyes of kindness and hopefulness.
Kailee Marshall, Zeta Gamma, and Stephanie Blair, Delta Delta, reunite for the weekend at Labyrinth Leadership Experience.
22 the TRIANGLE | fall 2017
member news
Collegiate News
Left: Alpha Alpha alumnae present a $4,600 check to the chapter. Right: Alpha Iota members at their annual Pancake Dinner supporting the Tri Sigma Foundation.
PSI, MARSHALL UNIVERSITY This past March, Psi Chapter held their annual Chilifest, which raises funds for both The Tri Sigma Foundation and March of Dimes. The
event welcomed students and members of the community into the Tri Sigma house to enjoy chili and learn about the amazing things
these organizations have done to support these two philanthropies under the Sigma Serves Children initiative. The chapter raised
almost $2,300 within a five-hour time frame. At the end of the day, sisters took leftover chili to the Huntington City Mission, where
they were able to feed 300 people. As an organization and a group of sisters, Psi Chapter strives to not only promote and serve the
national initiative but their community as well. Foundation Chair, Sabel Meadows said, “Chilifest was an amazing event to raise
money for our philanthropy, but it was even better that we were
able to help feed those in need in our own community. The goal
for our philanthropic work this year is to serve our two initiatives under Sigma Serves Children, while making a difference in our local community.”
ALPHA ALPHA, CONCORD UNIVERSITY Founders Day 2017 was an extra special occasion for the Alpha Alpha Chapter. Over 20 Tri Sigmas who attended Concord
together in the 1970s held a reunion last fall and raised funds for the collegiate chapter through a silent auction. Many from this
“Sigmas of the ‘70s” group decided to surprise the collegiate
women by attending Alpha Alpha’s Founders Day celebration and presenting a check with their donation. The collegiate women
were shocked and thrilled at such a generous donation from their alumnae! This is the largest individual donation the chapter has
ever received and it will be used to make repairs to the chapter’s on-campus lodge facility.
ALPHA DELTA, DREXEL UNIVERSITY Out with the old and in with the new! That’s what the Alpha Delta Chapter at Drexel University did this year for their philanthropy
event. In the past they have done Quest for the Best, an Amazing
Race-style event. This year, the Philanthropy chair, Maura Fulmer, and her committee decided to change things up and start Tri
Sigma Night Live as the new philanthropy event. The new event called for other organizations to make their own short comedy skits. Two sisters, Maddi Macechko and Zhefeng Liu were the hosts of the show.
Several Drexel fraternities and sororities participated in Alpha
Delta’s first Tri Sigma Night Live with Pi Kappa Alpha taking home the win. Alpha Delta raised more than their goal of $6,000. Fulmer and all of her sisters are looking forward to seeing this new event and the chapter grow in the coming years.
the TRIANGLE | fall 2017 23
member news
Collegiate News
ALPHA ZETA, NORTHWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY
ALPHA THETA, RADFORD UNIVERSITY
The Alpha Zeta Chapter put a unique spin on their philanthropy
On April 25, Alpha Theta Chapter was honored with the award of
have put on Dancing With The Sigmas, a spinoff of the popular
2017 and the Jervey Award for Panhellenic Unity at Greek Week
fundraisers. For the last six years, the women of Alpha Zeta
television show “Dancing With The Stars.� Dancing With The Sigmas features 12 Tri Sigma sisters dancing with prominent men from the Natchitoches community. These men include
bank presidents, University coaches, athletic directors, doctors,
lawyers, realtors, business owners, and many others. Each spring the production draws an audience of hundreds of people and
raises thousands of dollars to donate to the Tri Sigma Foundation. This year, the women of Alpha Zeta raised over $10,000 to be
donated to the Tri Sigma Foundation and the Alpha Zeta Housing
third place for both Outstanding Philanthropic Award for 2016-
2017. The chapter raised over $1,000 and gathered more than 30 children books during their philanthropy week. This past fall the
chapter also held a service day where members adopted a spot along the New River. Sisters spent the morning picking up trash
to keep the community clean. The chapter plans to continue to do more for the community and philanthropy this fall. Members feel
privileged to have received these awards and are striving to raise more money and participate in more service days.
Corporation Fund. With each year of Dancing With The Sigmas,
ALPHA IOTA, NORTHEASTERN STATE UNIVERSITY
event that only raised a few hundred dollars has grown into a large
Pancake Dinner for the Tri Sigma Foundation. This event was
the grand total raised keeps growing larger. What started as an
In February, the ladies of the Alpha Iota Chapter held their annual
production that raises thousands of dollars and gets community
a fun and easy way to raise money for a great cause and a fun
members involved with the collegiate sisters of Alpha Zeta.
sisterhood event! The chapter charged a $5 fee for unlimited
pancakes that came with toppings of your choice, juice, and fruit.
Left: Alpha Omicron at the Central Arkansas March for Babies event. Right: Beta Alpha members spent the weekend participating at a YMCA team-building workshop.
24 the TRIANGLE | fall 2017
The event also included a pancake-eating contest, where each
ALPHA MU, UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA AT LAFAYETTE
$25 gift card. The Pancake Dinner is one of the chapter’s biggest
President of the Year Award was awarded to Cassidy Sonnier,
every spring!
University of Oklahoma has hosted a philanthropy event called
Society of Leadership and Success, Public Relations Student
different causes each year. This year alone, Greek organizations
Honors Program. She was the voting delegate for the Alpha Mu
alumnus who was injured in a recent accident. This year the
challenging and a lot of pressure.
of Alpha Iota are extremely passionate about philanthropy. Greek
the importance of our ritual, and worked to strengthen sisterhood
the intent of their hearts by how much effort they put into their
greatness. She is highly respected, not just by the chapter, but
rolls around to begin planning another successful show and to
Sonnier is fierce, strong, and one fearless leader who will someday
contestant was charged an entry fee. The winner took home a
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette 2016 Patricia Cottonham
philanthropic events and is something Alpha Iota looks forward to
Alpha Mu.
any sister in need. While president, she remained active in National
For the past eight years, Greek life at Northeastern State
This past year, Sonnier has gone above and beyond to help
Greek Sing. This event has contributed thousands of dollars to
Society of America, Order of Omega (Vice President), and the UL
raised over $5,000 for a local Northeastern State University
Chapter at National Convention in 2016. Being chapter president is
chapter won their third title of Greek Sing Champions! The sisters
Sing is a great way for members to show their talents but also
throughout the chapter. She empowered sisters to strive for
performance. They are always eager when the spring semester
by alumnae and everyone else she has come into contact with.
raise money for another great cause! They are hoping to win their
empower women everywhere to change the world.
As president, Sonnier reinforced national policies, emphasized
fourth Greek Sing in 2018.
Left: Beta Alpha members working on an obstacle during a team building workshop. Right: Kelsey Lester, Beta Beta chapter receives the Woman of the Year award.
the TRIANGLE | fall 2017 25
member news
Collegiate News ALPHA OMICRON, UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL
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ARKANSAS On April 8, 2017, the Alpha Omicron Chapter and
the Epsilon Zeta Chapter participated in the Central Arkansas March for Babies. Though it was only a mile-and-a-half long march, the path took sisters
and members of the community around the William J. Clinton Presidential Library in downtown Little
Rock, Arkansas. The path passed by the Arkansas River and was dotted with signs promoting proper
prenatal care, encouraging stories, and memorials. The event raised $58,465 for March of Dimes and
the sisters who participated helped by raising over $300. Alpha Omicron is looking forward to next
year’s March for Babies with the hope that they can join again with Epsilon Zeta to raise awareness in the Arkansas community.
BETA ALPHA, NORTH ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY There’s nothing as rewarding as spending a
weekend outside camping with your sisters! Beta Alpha this past August got the opportunity to
participate in a team-building weekend with YMCA Camp Duncan. Throughout the weekend their
sisterhood grew tremendously as they completed different sisterhood games and exciting activities
and created tons of memories. That weekend spent outside is still talked about as the best weekend of the year. The chapter plans on making the
sisterhood retreat a yearly event and cannot wait for next summer! To learn more about your discount, call 1-888-231-4870 or visit nationwide.com/TriSigma
BETA BETA, MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY The Beta Beta Chapter spent the spring semester getting more involved on campus and is very
proud of previous chapter president, Kelsey Lester, for being named Woman of the Year. All sorority
members at Missouri State are considered for this award. The women of Beta Beta are humbled to
have members like her making such an impact on Nationwide Insurance has made a financial contribution to this organization in return for the opportunity to market products and services to its members or customers. Products underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies. Home Office: Columbus, OH 43215. Subject to underwriting guidelines, review, and approval. Products and discounts not available to all persons in all states. Nationwide and the Nationwide N and Eagle are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2017 Nationwide AFC-0286AO (05/17)
26 the TRIANGLE | fall 2017
the community.
In April, a group of Sigmas participated in the University’s
Relay For Life. Nicole Friedland and Rebecca Kaufman were on the Missouri State Relay For Life Executive Board along with
team leaders for Tri Sigma. They helped raise over $1,900. The chapter had a brave woman, Angela Presnell, who not only
raised $400 of the $1,900, but also shaved her head to help
raise awareness for cancer. The women of Beta Beta are very thankful to have members such as Presnell whose actions speak volumes.
In May, the chapter also held their annual Taco Night. The
event was open to the public and the chapter raised over $1,400 for the Tri Sigma Foundation. Emily Stites (philanthropy chair)
and Paige Groner (philanthropy co-chair) arranged a fun night filled with tacos and friends.
BETA XI, SOUTHEAST MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY On February 23, the Beta Xi Chapter held its annual Kindergarten Dinner event. The sorority opens the doors of the on-campus
chapter house to the public for everyone to come and join the women for a night of delicious food. This year, Beta Xi served
up chicken nuggets, green beans, corn, and the ever-popular
macaroni and cheese. Guests also received a cookie and a cup of lemonade, all for just $3. The dinner was a great opportunity
for the women of Beta Xi to mingle with all of Southeast Missouri State University’s community.
“I thought it went really well, and it was great to see so
much support from our fellow community members,” sophomore Melissa Bidinger said.
Top left: Members of Delta Pi participated in the March of Dimes 5K glow run. Top Right: Carley Price, Gamma Mu, with her father at the Sports Sunday picture booth. Bottom: Sisters from the Epsilon Omicron chapter celebrating Founders day.
the TRIANGLE | fall 2017 27
member news
Collegiate News
Left: Theta Zeta members received several individual awards from the Giortaste Leadership Awards Ceremony. Right: Samantha Lima and Allyson Gallo, Zeta Kappa, with the Greek Week trophy.
“My favorite part of Kindergarten Dinner was seeing all
the other sororities coming out to support us,” sophomore and co-chair for the event Madison Muchinske said.
For the first time in over 10 years, the Beta Xi chapter has been
of all the hard work that the entire chapter has done to help our chapter achieve this honor. “
BETA PI, UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-STOUT
awarded the honor of Pillar 4 accreditation. The chapter received
Recently the women of Beta Pi earned a huge applause as they came
tears. “I am so proud of our chapter,” Vice President of Operations
the news in December 2016 which moved many members to happy Hannah Guard said. “I feel like this is a new standard for our chapter for the coming years to go above and beyond expectations and to really strive to be the best that we can be.”
The women of Beta Xi worked hard to pull off all of the
standards for accreditation. Each collegiate member completed 20 or more hours of community service, were quick to fill out forms
or modules that were required for chair positions, worked towards getting a better chapter GPA, and recruited to chapter total. “I’m elated!” Chapter Adviser Marcy Emmons said. “I’m very proud
28 the TRIANGLE | fall 2017
in first over all four sororities on campus in Stout’s Greek Week!
The women showed their amazing talents in dance, lip-syncing,
hula hooping, and so much more. Sisters came together to work as a
team, practicing chants to cheer each other on, running the relay, and putting in extra hours to make the dance. Several talented women also worked on the Kim Possible theme poster.
In March, the Beta Pi Chapter was excited to welcome
Consultant Jasmine Barnes. Each day of the week Barnes was
visiting, almost every chair position met with her to talk about what the chapter has been doing and learned new ways to improve
each chair. It was a great learning experience for everyone and
members were glad Barnes came to make the chapter even better.
GAMMA IOTA, UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS AT AMHERST During the month of May, the Gamma Iota Chapter held their first philanthropy event, “Tri Sigma Floats Your Boat: 50s and Floats”
where they served root beer, Coca-Cola, and orange soda floats to attendees. The event raised a little more than $700 for the Tri
Sigma Foundation. The members of Gamma Iota had a wonderful time organizing and participating in the event to benefit such a wonderful cause.
GAMMA MU, SOUTHEAST LOUISIANA UNIVERSITY The Gamma Mu Chapter held its annual Father Daughter Day in
March. Brooke Guedry, the event coordinator, planned an amazing afternoon for sisters and fathers to bond together. There were
games such as ladder ball and beanbag toss, and there was music for all to jam out to. There was a crawfish boil including potatoes, sausage, and corn for everyone in attendance. The event was
themed “Sports Sunday,” and to go along with the theme, dads and members wore shirts supporting their favorite teams. GAMMA PI, NICHOLLS STATE UNIVERSITY Gamma Pi is immensely proud of all of all they have accomplished
this past year. In spring 2017, the chapter hosted their first Rockin’ for Robbie philanthropy event. Sisters Emma Gautreaux, Emily Winchester, and Caroline Jacobi planned the special chapter event. Rockin’ for Robbie included a full day of live music, a
jambalaya cook-off, and fun for the whole family. Sisters are so
proud to have raised $12,250 at this new event, and look forward to watching the event grow for many more years. DELTA PI, WINTHROP UNIVERSITY On February 25, 2017 the Delta Pi Chapter collaborated with Zeta Phi Beta Sorority to put on the first annual March of Dimes 5K
at Winthrop University. The 5k was a glow run theme held around
the campus lake. The sisters of Sigma Sigma Sigma and Zeta Phi Beta raised over $1,000 for the March of Dimes through this fundraiser and had a fantastic turnout for the race.
EPSILON OMICRON, ILLINOIS STATE UNIVERSITY The Epsilon Omicron Chapter celebrated our 119th Founders
Day with current sisters and alumnae at a beautiful restaurant in
downtown Bloomington. The Epsilon Omicron women also held their major philanthropy event of the school year – Dodgeball
Slam. Sister Sarah Spear did an amazing job putting Dodgeball
Slam together this year. Different Greek chapters on Illinois State’s
campus donate to participate and form a team, then faced each other in a bracket tournament. The winner received a donation
to their own chapter’s philanthropy and a trophy for display. All
proceeds from Dodgeball Slam were donated to March of Dimes.
The chapter also celebrated Senior Week for sisters that were
graduating and completed Circle Degree to become alumnae of
Tri Sigma. During Senior Week, the chapter had multiple versions
of sisterhood events – a bonfire and softball scrimmage, dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area, as well as their Wills and
Busts. Wills and Busts are an Epsilon Omicron tradition where those graduating ‘will’ down their old Sigma shirts collected over the
years. Sisters tell ‘busts,’ which are funny stories told about those graduating. This is a sweet and sentimental week for the whole chapter. Members enjoyed reminiscing about seniors and their
time in Sigma and are excited about the big bright future ahead. EPSILON RHO, MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY MANKATO This year the Epsilon Rho Chapter organized the first annual
Run for Robbie 5K in April 2017. The event was for all ages and
included a 5k, Greek Relay, and a Toddler Trot. Participants also had the option to put their name in a drawing to win some great
prizes. This event was a huge success and the chapter raised over $3,000 for Sigma Serves Children! The sisters of Epsilon Rho are
excited to continue this philanthropy and watch it grow each year. EPSILON SIGMA, VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY In April, the women of the Epsilon Sigma Chapter at Virginia
Commonwealth University participated in the March for Babies Walk in Richmond, Virginia. The chapter began reaching out to
the community months in advance and was able to raise $1,107 towards this amazing cause. The event was able to bring the
chapter together even more and helped members do something positive for the community.
ZETA ALPHA, BRYANT UNIVERSITY The women of Zeta Alpha proudly participated in the March For
Babies in Bristol, Rhode Island. This scenic 3.2-mile course went through one of Rhode Island’s most beautiful areas, Colt State
Park. There was a sense of strength and love in the atmosphere as teams of family, friends, and supporters banded together to march for the cause. Throughout the walk, there were signs marking a dedication to a family impacted by March of Dimes. There was
also a memorial trail along the course that paid tribute to newborns who lost their battle to complications of premature birth.
the TRIANGLE | fall 2017 29
member news
While much of the experience that morning was emotional,
ZETA UPSILON, FITCHBURG STATE UNIVERSITY
there was so much to be inspired. The support and outpouring
Ten members volunteered to help run the LUK Gala at Great Wolf
helping children was inspiring. Members had the opportunity to
and helping with bidding.
support their family in times of need. Members felt empowered to
Northeast Greek Leadership Association. The conference was held
promote healthy births nationwide.
Fitchburg State attended. Chapter members learned about being
ZETA THETA, IDAHO STATE UNIVERSITY
They also had the chance to connect with other Tri Sigma chapters
of love by family and friends, marching for the common cause of
Lodge and had an amazing experience checking people in and out
hear parents share their accounts of how March of Dimes helped
be surrounded by men, women, and children standing together to
at the Hartford Convention Center and every Greek association at
Three of our sisters traveled to Hartford, Connecticut, for the
leaders and being involved on campus as a member of Greek life.
This year the Zeta Theta Chapter received the Organization of the
from the northeast!
nominations outlining why Zeta Kappa deserved this award. One
ETA CHI, UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI
done by chapter sisters such as the Teddy Bear Clinic hosted by
impact on the lives of the Eta Chi women. From driving a sister to
comfortable and aware of things that happen at a hospital by
room, Coburn has gone above and beyond for the women of
and stitching up holes in teddy bears.
become an alumna initiate and she accepted! Members are excited
Year award at Idaho State University. The chapter had multiple
of the things announced was the spectacular community service
The chapter’s housemother Susan Coburn has made a substantial
a local hospital. At this event sisters helped children feel more
class when she was injured to chatting with women in the dining
checking the heart rate of teddy bears, giving teddy bears an x-ray,
Eta Chi. To honor all the work she has done, sisters invited her to
for her to continue to serve as a role model and now as a sister!
What made receiving this award even more incredible was that
one of the chapter’s own sisters got to present the award. Makayla Muir was the Idaho State University Student President and sister
THETA ZETA, CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY
Coulter. Members are thankful for this award and hope to strive
individual awards from the Giortaste Leadership Awards
who presented the award to the current chapter president, Bry
The Theta Zeta Chapter was thrilled and honored to receive
even further and receive this award again next year.
Ceremony, Case Western Reserve University’s annual spring event
ZETA KAPPA, MONTCLAIR STATE UNIVERSITY
to honor exceptional individuals in Greek life.
The Glenn Nicholls Character of Distinction Award, awarded
For Zeta Kappa’s philanthropy efforts, the chapter raised $180
to senior Carolyn Oatis, honors students who are constantly
raised $1,500 by selling t-shirts that had the Montclair logo and
desire to learn, not just for learning’s sake, but with the pursuit of
selling Robbie’s Root Beer floats on campus. The chapter also
going above and beyond their duties. These individuals show the
“Sigma Serves Children” on them.
challenging themselves and those around them.
Scholarship award at Montclair State University’s 2017 Greek Awards
of the Year for her outstanding guidance and support for potential
a 4.0 GPA and by having the overall highest NPC sorority GPA.
winning Greek Week this year. Tri Sigma worked alongside the
Advisor for her incredible dedication and her constant words of
were successful in events, such as basketball, tug of war, and even
Zeta Kappa had the honor of winning the Outstanding
Senior, Megan Bell, was selected as Recruitment Counselor
Banquet. The chapter won this award by having five sisters who had
new members during formal recruitment 2017.
Theta Zeta’s founding in 2014, was awarded Outstanding Chapter
The sisters also had a memorable time by participating in and
Susan Flowers, who has served as the chapter advisor since
fraternity Delta Chi and local sorority Delta Xi Delta. Together, they
wisdom for the chapter.
choreographed a fun dance.
levels of Pytte Cup, which is the accreditation system for Greek
In addition, the chapter was also recognized for achieving
life at Case Western Reserve University. Receiving these awards
has shown the rapid growth of Theta Zeta for the past three years, and stands as one of the chapter’s proudest moments.
30 the TRIANGLE | fall 2017
member news
Alumnae News BALTIMORE SUBURBAN S.W. ALUMNAE CHAPTER On May 7, 2017, the Baltimore Suburban S.W. Alumnae Chapter
participated in the annual March of Dimes March for Babies event. The team raised a total of $404 for March of Dimes. Eight sisters and family members walked four miles along the waterfront of
Baltimore’s Canton neighborhood to help support healthy moms and babies.
DALLAS ALUMNAE CHAPTER The Dallas Alumnae Chapter started off their fall 2016 events by attending and donating to recruitment for Eta Kappa at
Texas Woman’s University and Zeta Gamma at Southeastern
Oklahoma State University. Both chapters made total for their
campus. Later in the fall, members attended Zeta Gamma’s 25th
anniversary party, a wonderful event with many charter members in attendance. The Dallas alumnae were very happy to welcome Carolyn Littlefield into our bonds as an alumnae initiate. The
chapter, including her big sis, welcomed her with several gifts.
The Dallas Alumnae Chapter, along with the Eta Kappa chapter,
planned a Christmas party to fill Christmas stockings with gifts for
the children at Children’s Medical Center in Dallas. It turned out to be a huge event with many alumnae and Eta Kappa sisters. The
group collected more than 400 gifts.
Above: Hillary Gras, Laura Braddick, Jaclyn McLane, Stacey Gutridge, and Stacey Taylor, all Baltimore Suburban S.W. Alumnae Chapter, at the finish line. Left: Dallas Alumnae at Sigmas Stuffing Stockings event with Eta Kappa. Right: Brielle Ricca from the Gamma Mu Chapter visiting at Live Oak Assisted Living in Hammond, Louisiana.
the TRIANGLE | fall 2017 31
member news
Alumnae News
GREATER ST. LOUIS ALUMNAE CHAPTER
NORTHSHORE LOUISIANA ALUMNAE CHAPTER
For the second February in a row, Greater St. Louis alumnae
The ladies of the Northshore Louisiana Alumnae Chapter had an
University to host a bingo night at St. Louis Children’s Hospital.
Micaela Lanus, was presented with the Dan Cuevas Memorial
partnered with the women of Theta Gamma at McKendree
More than 20 alumnae and collegians joined forces to call bingo numbers, distribute prizes to the winners, serve refreshments, and socialize with hospitalized children and their families. MILWAUKEE ALUMNAE CHAPTER The Milwaukee Alumnae Chapter recently presented four members with their Golden Violet pins at the chapter’s Founders Day
celebration. These accomplished and steadfast ladies included
Barbara Cadieu Schaefer, Judith Spielberg Patti, Barbara Leister McMath, and Barbara Schmidt Nordberg.
exciting year. On September 12, 2016, Gamma Mu active member, Scholarship. Cuevas was the husband of Gamma Mu alumna and Northshore Louisiana Alumnae Chapter member Alison Cuevas
who passed away on June 14, 2016, after a brief illness. In lieu of flowers, the Northshore chapter chose to honor Cuevas through this $100 scholarship. Lanus was chosen because of steadfast involvement, being a proven leader, and outstanding academic achievements.
Sisters had fun this year too! Members celebrated the Krewe
of Olympia parade together. Mardi Gras is such a fun time of
the year for Louisianans. Amy Barrow hosted a fantastic, familyfriendly get-together. Members’ families came together as they
Above: Barbara Cadieu Schaefer, Beta Lambda, Milwaukee Alumnae; Judith Spielberg Patti, Beta Lambda, Milwaukee Alumnae; Barbara Leister McMath, Beta Lambda, Milwaukee Alumnae, and Barbara Schmidt Nordberg, Beta Pi, Milwaukee Alumnae.
32 the TRIANGLE | fall 2017
Left: Northshore Louisiana Alumnae Chapter members, Christine Stanley and Alison Cuevas, present Micaela Lanus with the Dan Cuevas Memorial Scholarship. Right: Members of the Northshore Louisiana Alumnae Chapter enjoying sisterhood time while celebrating Mardi Gras.
laughed, danced with the marching bands, and yelled, “Throw me
Degree were Sallee Britton, Gamma Epsilon; Kealey Cela, Eta Tau;
times together.
something, mister!” The sisters look forward to many more fun
PITTSBURGH ALUMNAE CHAPTER The Pittsburgh Alumnae Chapter spread love on Valentine’s Day by decorating cookies at the Ronald McDonald House with families
who have a child admitted at the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC. Sisters helped create a fun dessert by sharing a variety of icing and sprinkles.
SOUTHERN WEST VIRGINIA ALUMNAE CHAPTER The Southern West Virginia Alumnae Chapter started a new
tradition this spring by presenting graduating seniors from the Alpha Alpha Chapter at Concord University in Athens with a graduation gift. Members of the alumnae chapter agreed to
‘sponsor’ a graduating senior and purchased Tri Sigma stoles
for each graduate to wear during commencement. The alumnae chapter members thought this could be a way to introduce the
collegians to the alumnae chapter and also show new graduates that their local alumnae chapter is proud of their outstanding accomplishment!
TUCSON SUNSHINE ALUMNAE CHAPTER The Tucson Sunshine Alumnae Chapter welcomed three members
into Circle Degree at the Founders Day Luncheon held at the home of Brenda Osterman Ray, Alpha Psi. Those who received Circle
and Stephanie Swift, Pi.
Hats off to inspiring young women of the chapter who are
involved in the workplace. Newest member, Kealey Cela, recently graduated from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona
Beach. She is employed in Tucson with Raytheon Missile Systems where she works with classified information. Mobile Meals of Tucson’s program manager is Stephanie Swift. As program
manager, Swift wears many hats and is involved with scheduling volunteers for the delivery of approximately 250 meals. Some
receive daily meal delivery; others three or four times a week. As
the chapter Outreach Chair, Swift will be developing a program for chapter members to be involved in volunteering with her
non-profit organization. This is especially important in the summer as many of the volunteers are winter visitors, aka snowbirds,
and head for cooler climates. Sallee Britton is a retired Air Force nurse and currently works for an assisted living home. Although
Britton threatens to retire for good, she is dedicated to serving this population above and beyond the call of duty. Britton is also very
active in the Tucson Panhellenic Council currently serving as vice
president. Although there are no collegiate chapters in Tucson, the chapter keeps informed through Lauren Leif, Pi, who is Assistant Director of Fraternity and Sorority Programs for the University of
Arizona. Brenda Osterman Ray is a teacher of mathematics at the largest private Catholic high school in Tucson where she is very involved in student activities.
the TRIANGLE | fall 2017 33
member news
Alumnae News
TULSA ALUMNAE CHAPTER On Saturday, March 25, 2017, the Tulsa Alumnae Chapter
celebrated spring with a fun tea party at Miss Scarlett’s Tea Room at the Historic Burnett Mansion in Sapulpa, Oklahoma. Wearing a hat was encouraged and there was a wonderful group of Tri
at the final meeting of the calendar year, Jeanne Johnson presented the token of distinction to Nancy Jo Candy as her sisters looked on. It was like being in the presence of royalty, as Jo and Jeanne are both women the chapter looks up to and strives to be like.
Sigmas in attendance. The sisters were encouraged to sit beside someone they didn’t know very well and made use of icebreaker games to get to know each other. Chapter President Stephanie
Milburn welcomed everyone. The event was meant to bring sisters together and it totally did that!
Nancy Jo Candy pledged the Alpha Iota Chapter of Sigma
Sigma Sigma in 1967 while a collegian at Northeastern State
University in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. She has remained a steadfast
sister for all of these years and because she met the qualifications to be nominated (20 years national dues or lifetime dues paid plus 50 years of being a Tri Sigma), the entire Tulsa Alumnae Chapter
agreed that submitting her as a candidate for a Golden Violet was simply something that must be done. On Saturday, May 6, 2017,
34 the TRIANGLE | fall 2017
Left: Left to right: Caralee Moffett Woodson, Karen Jackson McKewon, Elaine Whitworth Harkreader and Jeanne Johnson; all Alpha Iota and Tulsa Alumnae Chapter. Right: Tulsa Alumnae Chapter’s newest Golden Violet Nancy Jo Candy, Alpha Iota
Gamma Pi
75 Years Strong at Alpha Phi
Celebrates 50 Years
The Gamma Pi Chapter of Sigma Sigma Sigma at Nicholls
On Saturday, April 29, the Alpha Pi chapter gathered with the
The weekend-long celebration included an alumnae crawfish
celebration of Tri Sigma at Central Michigan University in
guests in attendance.
Murphy, welcomed guests to Nicholls State University’s
states across the country like Texas, Florida, Kentucky, and
of her time visiting Thibodaux as a Field Representative, now
Rutkowski, and past National President Kaye Schendel, who
President, Rebecca Grabert, with an anniversary gift on behalf
at Central Michigan. Martha Smith, retired CMU faculty member
chapter’s history. Alpha Phi alumna Marni Sawacki, mayor of
State University celebrated its 50th anniversary in April 2017.
Central Michigan Alumnae chapter for the 75th Founders Day
boil, campus tour, and a luncheon with over 400 sisters and
Mount Pleasant. The chapter was founded at CMU in 1942.
During the luncheon, University President, Dr. Bruce
the diamond anniversary at CMU, with some traveling from
campus. After lunch, Reatha Cox, Alpha Zeta, shared stories
Tennessee. Sigma sisters listened to National Treasurer, Ann
know as a Consultant, and presented the Collegiate Chapter
offered congratulations for the enduring and successful sisterhood
of the national organization.
and long-time chapter advisor, shared warm memories of the
recognized and collegiate chapter accomplishments and awards
Cape Coral, Florida, offered the keynote address.
their longtime advisor, Becky Leblanc Durocher, by donating
announcement by Millie Lombard Digit that the $75 Burn the
her honor.
Phi over the top, and the sorority house at 430 South Main in
Next, the original Gamma Pi charter members were
More than 210 collegiate and alumnae members celebrated
were announced. Lastly, the women of Gamma Pi recognized
One of the highlights of the diamond celebration was the
a Louisiana cypress swing to the Mabel Lee Walton House in
Mortgage campaign for the 75th anniversary had taken Alpha Mount Pleasant is now fully owned by Sigma Sigma Sigma.
Top: The women of Gamma Pi’s past and present gathered together to celebrate their 50th anniversary. Bottom: Founded in 1942 at Central Michigan University, the Alpha Phi chapter celebrated its 75th anniversary with spirited songs and sisterhood.
the TRIANGLE | fall 2017 35
member news
Theta Kappa Chapter Installed at University of Wisconsin–La Crosse With the help of staff, volunteers and collegiate members,Tri Sigma officially installed the Theta Kappa Chapter at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse in La Crosse, Wisconsin, last spring. Members were excited to finally become fully initiated into the sisterhood.
“I joined Tri Sigma to be more involved in campus, to
gain leadership experience, and to find people with the same values as me,” Samantha Lemke, member of Theta Kappa, said.
After months of planning and preparation, Installation
Saturday, April 29 was full of sisterhood as it began
Weekend began on Friday with a pre-initiation meeting.
with the chapter participating in the local March of Dimes
March for Babies. Some members participated in the walk and others volunteered. The new members then had a
little time to get ready before initiation began. That night,
16 members were initiated into the Theta Kappa Chapter, concluding with the honor initiate, Brittany Tashner.
The installation banquet was a glamorous night and
On February 24th, new members received bids from Tri Sigma.
fun was had by all. The women heard a moving speech
from Zach Pfeifer, the Fraternity/Sorority Life Coordinator at University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.
Chapter members spent the semester learning about
“I love Tri Sigma’s message of empowerment and
They also got involved on campus as the newest
Tri Sigma’s values and what it means to be a sister. diversity,” member Mathilda Harris said.
sorority. Their first Greek Week, Theta Kappa won first
place out of all the fraternities and sororities on campus.
They also held an alumnae Easter egg hunt, attended
State Day, took part in a Sail Away Retreat, held several sisterhood events, and had brunch with the Winona Chapter for Founders Day.
ceived members re 24th, new On February a. m i Sig bids from Tr
36 the TRIANGLE | fall 2017
foundation
The Power of y As I reflect on my time serving as Foundation
Foundation not only the past three years, but
Philanthropist of the Year and Emerging Philanthropist of the Year,
Chair, I am inspired by the achievements of the the past 25 years of its history. The evolution of generosity among my Sigma sisters continues
to move me.
Tri Sigma’s commitment to social service and service to
children began in the early 1900s. In 1992, the Robbie Page Memorial Fund and the Educational Foundation merged to
create the Sigma Sigma Sigma Foundation. It’s exciting to be
celebrating the Foundation’s 25th anniversary this fall. I doubt anyone could have envisioned where we are today.
With three core pillars to our mission, Sigmas have
opportunities to support leadership development, scholarship,
and Sigma Serves Children. From my experiences at our national conventions or coaching at Presidents Academy, I have enjoyed telling my story about why I give and how Tri Sigma empowered me to be the leader I am today. After hearing hundreds of giving
stories, I know you may connect deeply to a different pillar of our mission than I do, but you have helped shape our philanthropy into what it is today.
Years
I push myself, and our board, to think of new ways to
encourage our Sigma sisters to contribute to a cause greater than ourselves. Over the past three years, here is what I have learned about giving:
One of my favorite memories as Foundation Chair was
recognizing the recipients of our newest Foundation awards,
at our 2016 National Convention. Dixie Shelton, Alpha Alpha,
and Michelle Tantillo, Epsilon Omicron, exemplify the power of generosity and how one person can truly make a difference.
When I think about the collegiate sisters I have mentored, it’s
important to me to help even our youngest members understand that they too can be a philanthropist.
As we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Foundation and
the generosity of Tri Sigma philanthropists over the years, I hope you will join me by making a gift on November 28, as part of the Giving Tuesday movement. Together, you and I can honor those who led the Foundation in the past and commit to being part of its future.
Leading the Foundation Board of Directors is another
example of how Tri Sigma has empowered me. It has been an
honor to serve you as Foundation Chair for the past three years. I am grateful for the gifts, time and talents you have given to our
mission. I look forward to the Foundation’s future and continuing to support a cause greater than both you and me.
For Sigma,
Jennifer Avenel, Delta Pi
• Every gift, small or large, makes a difference
• Honor and memorial gifts are an act of compassion and love
• Giving to an area of greatest need gives hope to an organization • Sharing your giving story teaches others about generosity
Chair, Foundation Board of Directors
With a gift of $25 on November 28, you join sisters everywhere in celebrating
the Foundation’s 25th Anniversary on Giving Tuesday. You can honor the past and the future of our philanthropy. Make a gift at crowdrise.com/the-power-of-25.
the TRIANGLE | fall 2017 37
foundation
Timeline of Foundation History The Robbie Page Memorial Fund became the official philanthropy of Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority.
1954
1992
The Robbie Page Memorial Fund joined with the Educational Foundation to create Sigma Sigma Sigma Foundation. Violenda Nelson Scholarship established.
1993
Awarded $20,775 in leadership grants, scholarships and local RPM grants.
The Sigma Sigma Sigma Educational Foundation was incorporated as another Tri Sigma philanthropy.
1984
Three groups of women gathered across the country to attend an informational meeting about the purpose of the Tri Sigma Foundation and I hosted one of those groups at my home in Washington, D.C. Looking back, I am proud of the number of RPM Grants we have given out through the years and the future reach of the new March of Dimes partnership.”
– Carolyn Garofalo, Gamma Rho
1994 1995
Gertrude Lawrence Ledford, Jennifer Metherd, Michael Welsh, and Ann Buchler Williams Scholarships established. Catherine Panarese Combs Graduate Scholarship established.
I remember attending the 1992 Convention where the Tri Sigma Foundation was created. Not only did I serve as Foundation Chair from 2011-2014, but I still serve on the Foundation Board of Directors. Over the past 25 years I helped pick the Foundation’s first staff member, formed close bonds with sorority headquarters staff, and volunteered countless hours to help make the Foundation what it is today.”
– Marie Beck, Beta Upsilon 38 the TRIANGLE | fall 2017
2003 2004
2004 2005
Lucile Mertz Hendrick, Louisa Roudebush Replogle, and Barbara Moseley Welsh Scholarships established. Endowed by an anonymous Sigma in memory of her parents, the Destination Sigma Scholarship provides scholarship aid to collegiate women attending Convention, every three years. Epsilon Xi Scholarship established.
For our complete timeline, visit
trisgima.org/foundation-history.
2017
The Foundation celebrates its 25th Anniversary.
2016
Awarded $221,656 in leadership grant, scholarships, RPM grants and March of Dimes research grant.
The Foundation announced March of Dimes as additional philanthropic partner.
More than $1 Million benefitting Tri Sigma leadership and educational programs.
2015 2014
Nu Scholarship established and Mary Crumpton Brown established two additional scholarships.
Mary Crumpton Brown, Doris Schroeder, Ann Rutkowski, and Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter Scholarships established. The Foundation began a Matching Grant program for funds raised by alumnae and collegiate chapters, benefitting therapeutic play.
Over $3 Million awarded in RPM Grants
2013
Stephanie Sabol Strom Scholarship established.
2012
Mimi Brandt Hiner, Lucille Morrison, and Chi Scholarships established.
2010
Dixie Shelton Scholarship established. Foundation received a generous donation from Fred and Liz Hoffert, Beta Xi, to support leadership programs.
2008 2007
Helen Cookston Devor Scholarship established. Lori Dahm Graduate Scholarship and Helen Marie Eggert Snyder Scholarship established.
the TRIANGLE | fall 2017 39
foundation
2016-2017 Pillars of Sigma The Pillars of Sigma are a community of our most generous and engaged sisters who invest $1,000 or more each fiscal year, July 1 to June 30, in unrestricted support for Tri Sigma. Join these women as a Pillar of Sigma at trisigma.org/donate. Cathy Albright Jennifer Avenel Natalie Averette Marie Beck Angi Bevers Marie Bosarge Mary Bristol Mary Brown Kathryn Carlson Rebecca Cassidy Camille Chasteen Linda Clayton Tracey Daniels Joann Davis Bethany Deines Emily Ellis Janet Evans Carol Frost Betsy Gabrish Allene Hazeltine Donna Herndon Judith Heyn Liz Hoffert Janet Horner Kay Hunsaker Joey Jackson Lisa Koeller JeanMarie Komyathy Susie Kuhn Norma Larson Allissa Leach Mindi Major Linda Manley-Kuitu
40 the TRIANGLE | fall 2017
Chi Delta Pi Gamma Beta Beta Upsilon Beta Gamma Gamma Mu Beta Rho Rho Zeta Beta Alpha Kappa Zeta Rho Omicron Alpha Theta Beta Gamma Beta Kappa Gamma Beta Kappa Alpha Beta Omicron Alpha Xi Alpha Chi Delta Beta Beta Xi Beta Xi Sigma Theta Delta Gamma Alpha Gamma Kappa Beta Gamma Beta Alpha Gamma Mu Beta Gamma Epsilon Rho
Laura Manthey Nancy May Suzanne McGlone Katie McGoey Shirley McKinley Kara Miller Heather Mitchell Beth Moore Elizabeth Nelms Karen O’Connell Joyce O’Daniel Susan O’Reilly Renee Pope Yvette Pue Bonnie Rainey Frances Redmon Marie Rees Ann Rutkowski Sandy Sandel Lori Schaefer Kaye Schendel Katie Scherping Dixie Shelton Courtney Stone Charlotte Suhler Carol Swango Laura Sweet Allison Swick-Duttine Michelle Tantillo Lori Taylor Katie Wadington Mary Webster
Gamma Lambda Alpha Upsilon Gamma Mu Epsilon Epsilon Alpha Upsilon Epsilon Delta Epsilon Xi Alpha Chi Alpha Sigma Gamma Psi Alpha Chi Delta Upsilon Epsilon Eta Chi Alpha Sigma Alpha Nu Delta Xi Epsilon Delta Alpha Phi Beta Pi Gamma Phi Beta Alpha Alpha Alpha Alpha Psi Alpha Nu Alpha Psi Alpha Sigma Psi Epsilon Omicron Omicron Epsilon Xi Beta Kappa
the TRIANGLE | fall 2017 41
archives
By Liz Johns, Delta Omicron, National Archivist
Working Women from the Beginning: Tri Sigma Founders who Built Careers Tri Sigmas have always been women in the workplace. Our eight
Founders went to school to learn how to be teachers so they could earn a living and support themselves even in a time when many
women did not join the workforce, or even attempt to gain higher
education. None of the women were attending school to get their
“MRS” degree. In fact, only one of them (Elizabeth Watkins) married a Hampden-Sydney graduate. (Hampden-Sydney was the men’s
college near Farmville, and the students of both schools engaged in social activities together often.) All the Founders became teachers after leaving the State Normal School in Virginia, and Lucy Wright James even became a principal. All eight remained teachers until
they married, except for Lelia Scott and Martha Trent Featherston, studying at the University of Virginia. In the early 20th century, it was
Clockwise from top left: Lucy Wright James, Margaret Batten Randle and Sallie Michie Bayley in Washington, D.C. at FDR’s first inauguration in 1933.
that did not mean their opportunities ended with marriage. Many
at the George Washington,
or started to work again if they became widowed, like Sallie Michie
manager of
A few of the Founders became successful women in the
as noted in the same letter,
business that she and her husband, George Bertrand James, ran
be called the principles of
for a few years before getting married and moving to New York with
for local and national college and women’s clubs, along with some
point she moved to Washington, D.C. and worked for the
fairly assume that Mrs. Randle did a fine job at the Barbizon.” The
New York Tri Sigma Alumnae chapter, which gave Margaret
who never married, and who spent summers in their early careers common for women to stop working once they were married, but
women, like Lucy, became business partners with their husbands,
Margaret had been the
Bayley and Margaret Batten Randle.
the Barbizon Hotel, which,
workforce with their husbands or on their own. Lucy managed the
“She first applied what might
together; the “Shirley,” an apartment hotel in Virginia. Sallie taught
Tri Sigma, and considering that the Barbizon had become a haven
her husband. But she was widowed before World War I, at which
of the finest women who had made New York their home, one can
Air Corps until she retired in 1943.
George Washington Hotel even became the headquarters of the
and took the opportunity to support the war effort through
“a great deal of personal pride.”
successful businesswoman in both Chicago and New York as
not, but for our Founders, to become great business women and
in 1933 from a guest of the George Washington Hotel in New
feat. For more information on the Founders and their careers,
her career: Her first job in New York was as a “cashier in the
Sigma, 1st Ed.
room’s manager. For two years, she was the manager also of the
Archivist at archives@trisigma.org, and visit the Archives Flickr
mention her income, grew rapidly.” Before becoming the manager
more of the Archives Collection.
Like Sallie, Margaret was also widowed before World War I,
employment in Washington D.C. Afterwards, she became a
the manager of residential hotels. A letter written to The Triangle
remain successful teachers throughout their lives was a great
York, the hotel at which Margaret was the manager, described
see Chapter Three of The Years Remembered of Sigma Sigma
Allerton House dining room. In a short time, she was the dining
Allerton’s two dining rooms in Chicago. Her reputation, not to
Gallery at flickr.com/photos/trisigmaarchives/collections to see
42 the TRIANGLE | fall 2017
Women in the workforce today is expected more often than
For questions about the Archives contact Liz Johns, National
omega listing
Omega Listing
The following Tri Sigmas were reported to have entered the Omega Chapter. We offer our sympathy to their friends and families and honor them for their lifelong commitment to Tri Sigma. IOTA Mary Foster Sauter
ALPHA IOTA Melinda Turley Coburn
BETA RHO Carol Beauchamp Dellinger
MU Marjorie Frances Clough* Merle Kimball*
ALPHA KAPPA Shirley Saifrit Ewald
BETA PHI Lalai Sapp Hamric
ALPHA NU Mary Carter Kias Jacquelynn Leonard Harder* Barbara Keene Pundsack
GAMMA BETA Caroline Johnson Ennis
PI Marjorie Mulkey Sheeley* Jean Lane Tawney A. Jean Friend Walters RHO Linda Elizabeth Trigg SIGMA Shirley McKinley Killian CHI Mona Markham Ruttman PSI Margaret Minichan Barrett Merle Lucas Willey ALPHA ALPHA Pamela Gilles Brown Elizabeth Hartsaw Link ALPHA BETA Mary Jane Lynch* ALPHA EPSILON Marilyn Meyer Dedrickson Margie Chapman Foley Zo Ann Holt Severson* ALPHA ZETA Kathryn Martin Blair ALPHA THETA Joyce Burnette Hankla
ALPHA PI Ilene Ross Bovaird Donagene McDowell DeLong ALPHA UPSILON Marilyn Lee Boehling Frances Grimes Rea Shirley Taylor Rinker BETA ALPHA Marlyn Lenschow Burkart* BETA BETA Jennie Jo Hamar Buyske BETA DELTA Rebecca Jane Shaffer BETA EPSILON Ann Barisch Grosvenor Bonnie lou Keeley
GAMMA ZETA Amanda Giovanna Costa GAMMA ETA Valerie Lynn Thibodaux GAMMA NU Sharon Smith Morgan GAMMA RHO Margaret-Anne Augustino Morrison DELTA ZETA Janice M. Atkinson DELTA PI Veronica Gray Burnett EPSILON NU Nora Nicole Hill EPSILON OMICRON Kristine Boschert Polley
BETA LAMBDA Diana Lee Pierce
EPSILON PI Margaret Thomas Cohen
BETA XI Constance Sejnost Geldbach*
ZETA LAMBDA Diane Berner Voelker
BETA PI Beverly Lescohier Simpson
* Indicates Golden Violet
the TRIANGLE | fall 2017 43
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