TRIANGLE
2020
This issue of The Triangle was already in production when the Coronavirus pandemic became a concern, therefore it was not addressed within. For up-to-date Tri Sigma information and resources, please visit trisigma.org/covid19. We hope that you are taking care of yourself in these unprecedented times, and know that our thoughts are with all of our members and their families.
Founders Day
51 Years of Volunteer Service
Welcome New Sisters
from the
president
“ What is the essence of life? To serve others and to do good.” ~ Aristotle, Greek philosopher We welcomed 2020 with confetti and fireworks not too long ago, and now spring is here! It’s
a new decade, full of new beginnings. Are you still contemplating New Year’s resolutions?
Charitable giving and volunteering are common resolutions as there is a desire “to serve others and to do good.”
Is volunteering on your 2020 to-do list? Tri
Sigma is a great place to give back! There is a time and a season
for everyone to seek out opportunities for giving and volunteering.
Whether it’s a short-term project, like helping to plan a special
event or serving on a committee; a longer commitment, such as serving as a chapter advisor; making gifts to the Foundation; or even financially supporting a particular project to update and enhance the Mabel Lee Walton House, there is certainly a need you can fill!
Volunteers are essential to the success of the sorority and
have been a vital part of our growth from the earliest days of the organization. As new members we learn the phrase, “To receive much, you must give much,” and giving back to Tri Sigma honors a
commitment we all made as part of our initiation vow. Tri Sigma is not just for a few years in college. Tri Sigma runs on the hard work of volunteers eager to give back some of what they’ve been given
in our sisterhood. Volunteering is about sharing your professional and personal skills, talents, and resources to help cultivate and
inspire future leaders. It’s about teamwork - a collaboration between professional staff and volunteers working together in the
best interest of the sorority, to advance Tri Sigma. Volunteering for Tri Sigma is about giving—giving generously, altruistically, humbly, and with pure intentions. It’s done with a heartfelt desire to assist our members in reaching their full potential and to ensure a positive experience as a sorority woman.
As I often ponder the importance of volunteerism, I think about
our volunteers. They are passionate, dedicated, and energetic.
They give selflessly and tirelessly to better their community and positively influence others. As a volunteer myself, I also love
Speaking of powerful impact, I’m sure many of you remember
Mr. Rogers (and if you don’t know who Mr. Rogers is, Google him!) A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood, released back in November,
is a movie about the television icon Fred Rogers. It was inspired
by an article written in 1998 for Esquire magazine entitled “Can You Say…Hero? Fred Rogers has been doing the same small
good thing for a very long time...” Scenes in the movie reenact parts of episodes from his children’s television show, “Mister
Rogers Neighborhood.” Watching as an adult, I can see the subtle
reminders about supporting others and how the simplest gestures can make a lasting impact.
The same holds true for volunteering. Serving Tri Sigma has
been the essence of my alumna experience. I have volunteered for over 30 years, which is more than half of my life! Sisters who
came before me saw something in me and encouraged me to stay involved and support the organization. Working with students has been especially meaningful – I hope they have learned as much from me as I have from them.
As we move forward in life, we continue to learn, and it’s
essential to consider the investments we make. Investing provides security for the present and the future. I believe in Tri Sigma; it’s a
sound investment. I believe in investing in our members and in the
sorority. Much like my philosophy of why I support the organization and the foundation, Fred Rogers shared this sentiment. “Look at
us – I’ve just met you, but I’m investing in who you are and who you will be, and I can’t help it.”
As volunteers for Tri Sigma, we have the opportunity to invest
in creating meaningful experiences for members. We have the
opportunity to sow seeds of greatness. When you help others
succeed, you too will find personal success. So, step out and sow the seed - invest in Tri Sigma!
Wishing you the very best this year, and here’s to a prosperous
new decade for Tri Sigma! In our bonds,
what I’ve gained by volunteering. I’ve explored and experienced many exciting opportunities, learned many new skills, challenged
myself, and made incredible friends. Best of all, as both a recipient and a giver of volunteered time and energy, I know the powerful impact one person can have on others.
2 the TRIANGLE | spring 2020
Natalie Moore Averette, Gamma Beta National President
contents
The Triangle | Spring 2020
Volume 20, Number 1 Editor Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications Design/Editing Member Experience Editor Features Editor Copy Editor
Mallory Borino, Eta Omicron Jesi Wilcox Shelle Design, Inc. Jennifer Call, Epsilon Xi Devyn Vinson, Zeta Alpha Michelle Dahlstrom, Beta Epsilon
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 2019-2022 National President Natalie Moore Averette, Gamma Beta National Treasurer Ann Rutkowski, Epsilon Delta National Vice President Jennifer Avenel, Delta Pi National Vice President Heather Cruz, Zeta Psi National Vice President Kara Miller McCarty, Epsilon Delta National Vice President Joyce O’Daniel, Alpha Chi Ex-Officio Linda Manley-Kuitu, Epsilon Rho
8 features:
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.
departments:
6 Founders Day Message
4 Editor’s Corner
8 Tri Sigma’s Longest Serving Volunteer
6 Empowered Women
10 Volunteer Spotlight 15 Prevention Institute 2020 17 Welcome, New Sisters
On the cover: Arlene Ball of Alpha Phi Chapter, volunteer
12 Leadership 17 Member News 32 Foundation
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. © 2020 Sigma Sigma Sigma
40 Archives
Sigma Sigma Sigma National Sorority
43 Omega Listing
@sigmasigmasigmahq @trisigma
spotlight (page 10), participating in a community fundraiser in 2012, the Cipirano Classic 5K.
the TRIANGLE | spring 2020 3
editor’s corner
the season of
sisterhood This past September, I resigned as
recruitment advisor for Eta Omicron
at Sam Houston State University after six years of service. It was a decision that still hurts my heart, but it was
the best decision for myself and the MALLORY BORINO Eta Omicron Director of Marketing and Communications
chapter. Over those six years, I watched the chapter grow, I celebrated the
graduating seniors and I built strong
friendships with my fellow advisors. Six years ago, my life was in a different season. I was younger, unmarried, and eager to
give back to our sisterhood and work with our collegiate women. Every bid day was a rush of emotions for me. I sat there flipping through the list of bid matches, seeing name after name of
women that the chapter had seen something in, and who would be the next leaders. Over those six years, my life entered other seasons, and my available time to give shrank. I am now in a season consumed by two tiny humans under the age of two. We welcomed my daughter this winter, and in the new year, I joked with some sisters that my word this year is surviving. I
am choosing to give myself grace this year and embrace this
4 the TRIANGLE | spring 2020
season filled with much transition and change. When I decided to no longer be an active volunteer for this organization, it was a decision to grant myself that grace and put my time where it is most needed right now. There are parts of me that feel
guilty since I so eagerly want to give back to the sisterhood
that gave so much to me, but I know that she is understanding and supportive. I have seen it in the many alumnae I have
met over the years in their various times of life. Life is about
seasons. Seasons as an eager new initiate involved in every
position offered. Seasons of needing a break to buckle down
and get through your final semester and graduate. Seasons of reconnecting and transitioning into alumnae life. Seasons for more or less involvement in Tri Sigma.
No matter the season, our sisterhood is there, ready to meet
you where you are. I encourage you to embrace your season;
give yourself the grace to pull back or the push to dive in. As I
welcome my current season, I also look forward to the next when my tiny humans aren’t so tiny, and I get the opportunity to give back to the sisterhood that has supported me through all of life’s seasons.
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the TRIANGLE | spring 2020 5
empowered women
Dear Sigma Sisters,
Founders Day
What was it like when our founders met for the first time? What were the early discussions about in the trunk room at the far end of Professional Hall? What did they think when they saw the first public announcement of Sigma in The Normal Light? When did they decide that Sigma Sigma Sigma should continue into the future?
All of these questions and so many more make up the moments of our history. It is
Founders Day when we celebrate not only the moments that mattered to our founders, but the moments that matter to us as well.
The definition of a moment is a brief period of time – well, that got me thinking, how
many minutes has it been since April 20, 1898? The number is 64,166,340! That’s a lot of moments! It’s incredible to think that all of our Tri Sigma moments happened within those minutes!
Through the 122 years of our history, hundreds of thousands of members have been
initiated into the bonds of our sisterhood. From Alpha Chapter to Theta Mu Chapter, and everyone in between, our collective moments are what make Tri Sigma the amazing organization that it is!
As Amanda Marchegiani, Beta Xi, wrote in this year’s program, Moments That Matter, “No moment is too big or small to be defined as a moment that matters.” From
the day we accepted our bid or invitation to join Tri Sigma, to our initiation day, receiving a little sister, re-connecting with chapter sisters, these are the moments that helped shape our own Tri Sigma story.
What better day than Founders Day, to think about all the Tri Sigma moments that have helped shape the person you are today? On behalf of Executive Council, I extend our heartfelt greetings and best wishes for a Founders Day that you can add to your moments that matter!
In our bonds,
Ann (Annie) C. Rutkowski
Epsilon Delta, National Treasurer
SUBMIT YOUR ALUMNAE
RECOMMENDATION ONLINE Graduation season is just around the corner, and a new generation of high school graduates will head to college. They may even get the chance to experience the wonderful things Tri Sigma has to offer. Do you know a young woman who is graduating from high school this spring and heading off to a college or university with a Tri Sigma chapter? If you do, we urge you to take a moment of your time and complete our online recommendation form. We want to meet her, get to know her, and show her our sisterhood. Our chapters are looking for women who will value their Tri Sigma experience just as much as you do. Fall primary recruitment for our chapters starts as early as the first of August. To submit a form visit www.trisigma.org - Click on join - Click on perspective members - Scroll down to recommend a member *You must be a Tri Sigma alumna to submit a recommendation. Having a recommendation does not guarantee the potential new member an invitation for membership. Recommendations offer a beneficial introduction to the chapter.
the TRIANGLE | spring 2020 7
empowered women
By Devyn Vinson, Zeta Alpha
Tri Sigma’s Longest Serving Volunteer
Virginia Rompf Cook 51 Years of Volunteer Service
Charter members of Beta Alpha Chapter. Virginia Cook is the middle row, third in from the right.
Golden Violet Virginia Rompf Cook
was a member of a local sorority, Sigma Chi Sigma, during
her undergraduate career at Northern Illinois University. The
weekend she graduated, the chapter officially went through the change of becoming the Beta Alpha Chapter of Sigma Sigma
Sigma. The members decided to become a chapter of Tri Sigma after some debate, citing the same colors and gem as part of
the reason. On June 3, 1944, the chapter received the charter and officially joined the sisterhood of Tri Sigma.
Cook’s volunteer career is comprised mostly of positions
within the housing corporation for the Beta Alpha Chapter.
So much so, that the house is now named The Virginia Cook
8 the TRIANGLE | fall 2019
House. She is currently the secretary and treasurer of housing.
At first, the Beta Alpha Chapter did not have a house. A
lot of sisters had decided to live together independently and were very open to the idea of a house when the possibility
arose. Local connections enabled the chapter to have a lot
of input; wrought iron exterior detailing and an open stairway
were some of the details that Cook and other chapter members requested in the blueprint. It was built to fit 40 members of the
chapter comfortably. For National Headquarters to approve the
house, Cook and two others had to establish an official housing corporation, which is where her volunteer career began.
Left: Alumnae and collegiate members of Beta Alpha Chapter celebrating homecoming together inside the Virginia Cook House. Virginia Cook is pictured second row, third from left. Right: Members of the Beta Alpha Chapter housing corporation gather outside the Virginia Cook House during alumnae weekend. Virginia Cook is pictured third from left.
Once the house was completed, the Beta Alpha housing
corporation signed a 30-year lease in 1969. In 1999 when the
lease ended, the chapter decided to purchase the house. This past fall, the chapter celebrated its 50th anniversary in the house!
Cook does not see her service as anything out-of-the-
ordinary. After 51 years of service, she knows that volunteers
around Beta Alpha is extraordinary and remains very connected to many of them.
The challenges and feats of the housing corporation of Beta
Alpha have brought much joy into Cook’s life. She knows that any stress she encountered only bettered her sisterhood, and she loves being part of their continued growth.
are the backbone of Tri Sigma. She cites proximity and a
supportive group of sisters as her main drive for remaining
steadfastly committed. A lot of Cook’s friends are now Golden
Violets as well. She believes the community of devoted women
the TRIANGLE | fall 2019 9
empowered women
By Devyn Vinson, Zeta Alpha
Volunteer Spotlight:
Arlene Reid Ball
The “Fab Five” group at Dunham Women of Character Institute in 2019. Arlene Ball is pictured in the back row, third from left.
10 the TRIANGLE | spring 2020
Arlene Ball had a nontraditional start in the Tri Sigma sisterhood. She joined her collegiate chapter, Alpha Phi, at Central Michigan University during the second semester of her junior year. After graduation, she mainly stayed connected with her chapter and the close friends she made.
It was not until five years after her graduation that Ball
became involved in an alumnae chapter. Her involvement enabled her to go to Convention in 1998 and serve as a delegate. Seeing
hundreds of sisters gathered to celebrate the sisterhood sparked a passion for giving back that remains strong today.
Ball currently volunteers for two chapters, Zeta Tau Chapter
at the University of Detroit Mercy, and Theta Theta Chapter at Oakland University. She is now the chapter advisor for Zeta
Tau Chapter and volunteers nationally on the Character Counts Committee.
as a mentor at both Officer Academy and Dunham Women of Character Institute. She sends Violet Tributes regularly
and believes it is the best way to give back while remaining connected.
Ball has seen so much change within Tri Sigma, and cannot
wait to see what other changes are in store. For the upcoming
Triennium, Ball has only one wish - she wants more Tri Sigmas to be active in alumnae chapters and volunteer.
She is an active member of three alumnae chapters and
believes it is the best way for sisters to stay involved in Tri Sigma after graduation. Ball herself took five years to join an alumnae
chapter, but knows that joining changed her life and recommitted her to Tri Sigma. She states, “That first step is the hardest – take it…A sorority is not about college; it’s about values.”
a mentor means going beyond one’s family. She has volunteered
Ball’s values were intertwined with Tri Sigma so much that
With the new volunteer structure, we are honored to recognize Arlene Ball as a national officer. Under the previous structure,
members of chapter advisory boards and committees were not
recognized as national officers. Tri Sigma is eternally grateful for Arlene’s steadfast commitment to our sisterhood.
her younger sister and her daughter both joined, too. But being
Left: Arlene Ball, middle, and alumnae at an Oakland University philanthropy event. Right: A trip to visit a famous local cider mill with the chapter’s consultant, Kyla Riggs.
the TRIANGLE | spring 2020 11
leadership
A Grand New Tradition:
NPC Annual Educational Conference By National Panhellenic Conference
From Oct. 3-5, 2019, the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) hosted the inaugural NPC Annual Educational Conference at the “South’s Grand Hotel” — The Peabody Memphis in Memphis, Tennessee.
From Oct. 3-5, 2019, the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC)
hosted the inaugural NPC Annual Educational Conference at the “South’s Grand Hotel” — The Peabody Memphis in Memphis, Tennessee.
“In conjunction with NPC’s new organizational and
governance structure that took effect July 1, we have introduced what is ‘Our Grand New Tradition’ – an annual educational event with programs of interest and value specifically to those working for and with women’s-only organizations,” said NPC Chairman Carole Jones. “That includes member organization staff and
volunteers, NPC volunteers, and other interfraternal partners.”
Jones noted this year’s event featured both large and
small group educational sessions, with topics generated by the
2019-22 NPC Strategic Plan and NPC’s Advocacy Building Blocks. The NPC Foundation provided significant financial support for
the educational sessions, as did many sponsors who supported programming, meals, refreshments and other meeting services.
This year’s event began on Thursday evening with a kick-off
reception on the roof of The Peabody that included networking time and special entertainment: The Peabody Ducks! (Visit peabodymemphis.com for a video.)
Attendees then gathered for the opening dinner to celebrate
the NPC community and special Panhellenic women. The
program included recognition of the 2017-19 NPC Executive Committee, the introduction of the 2019-21 NPC Board of
Directors, and the presentation of their new badges designed by
Herff Jones, a memorial service, special presentations from NPC
member organizations, and an update from the NPC Foundation.
12 the TRIANGLE | spring 2020
Everyone gathered Friday morning for the first keynote session
from Liz Murray, who shared the inspirational story of her journey from being homeless at age 15 to graduating from Harvard in
2009. Relevant to the sorority experience, her message stressed the importance of finding a sense of belonging within
a community and the transformational effects of mentorship.
Talkspace’s Elizabeth Hinkle, Licensed Marriage and Family
Therapist, then spoke to attendees about the mental health
needs of young women as they transition from high school to
college and provided resources to support the mental health of today’s collegians.
During the Partner Marketplace, attendees visited with NPC
Partner Program representatives to learn about their products and services that support member organizations and the sorority experience.
Attendees spent Friday afternoon in small group educational
breakout sessions. Topics included using data and patterns to grow the sorority movement, drug use trends among collegeage students, building Panhellenic sisterhood in alumnae
organizations, and a day-in-the-life of a fraternity/sorority life campus professional.
Next, NPC welcomed Christina Geist, brand strategist,
bestselling author, and entrepreneur. Geist founded the company Boombox, an idea inspired while celebrating the 40th birthday of
one of her Chi Omega sorority sisters. During a conversation with NPC Chairman Carole Jones, Geist shared her story of women’s friendships, sisterhood, empowerment, and leadership.
Clark Brown, general counsel for the North American
Interfraternity Conference (NIC), then presented a NIC litigation and health/safety update, including a discussion of newly adopted campus advocacy protocols and NIC’s updated position statements.
During the NPC Foundation dinner, NPC Foundation
President Ann Brookshire presented the Women in Higher
Education Achievement (WHEA) Award to Dr. Darcy L. Russell,
dean of the college of arts and sciences at Baker University. Dr. Russell is an accomplished researcher, professor, author, and presenter who has made it her lifelong quest to make difficult
subjects understandable. She is also a member of Zeta Tau Alpha and a long-time NPC volunteer.
The evening concluded with small group educational
sessions for NPC family members on the topics of Release Figure Methodology (RFM) and Extension.
On Saturday morning, attendees participated in the large
group session “Reflections from the Anti-Hazing Coalition” with Richard Braham, Evelyn Piazza, and Jim Piazza - three parents who have lost sons to hazing. During the past two years, the Brahams, Piazzas, and other members of the Anti-Hazing
Coalition (AHC) have become part of our interfraternal family.
This discussion, moderated by NPC Chief Executive Officer Dani Weatherford, provided an opportunity for the parents to share
lessons from their discussions about hazing with thousands of sorority women, their legislative efforts to end hazing, and the future work of the AHC.
During the Saturday morning educational breakout
sessions, attendees chose from four topics: current membership
expectations from potential new members, how and why women haze, mentorship in today’s sorority world, and an exploration of bias in the Panhellenic sorority experience.
The State of the Conference & Award Presentations
Luncheon followed. NPC Chairman Carole Jones delivered the State of the Conference address, highlighting the work
of NPC volunteers and staff to position NPC and the entire
sorority community for a strong future as they execute the NPC
Strategic plan. She also highlighted the work plans of the board of directors for the coming year. (Note: For more information,
read the October 2019 NPC Chairman’s Message found online at bit.ly/NPCchairman1019.) Many award recipients were also recognized.
Afternoon educational sessions began with the final set
of breakout topics: personality trends and member motivations within sorority chapters, creating a culture of well-being in
organizations, technology, and volunteers and the benefits
and outcomes of implementing a commonly read program in a College Panhellenic community.
During the final large group educational session, NPC
Chief Operating Officer Jenny Greyerbiehl moderated a panel discussion with four local campus administrators to discuss
higher education trends. These professionals shared thoughts on how sororities have contributed to campuses and what sororities need to do to remain on campuses in the future.
With the educational sessions complete, the evening
programming took a lighter turn. Attendees participated in a service activity to assemble hygiene kits for use by girls
participating in Girls Inc. Memphis-sponsored programs and at home.
That was followed by the closing dinner that included a
program by Fran Becque, Ph.D., historian and archivist for
Pi Beta Phi. The Power of 26 program helped attendees be
more informed about and inspired by the history of the sorority movement, the story of NPC, and the women who founded, joined, and built our organizations.
The evening closed with a dessert bar, sponsored by Chi
Omega and Kappa Delta, both headquartered in Memphis.
Attendees also were serenaded by an Elvis tribute artist, and they took pictures with him in the event-themed photo booth.
“NPC is already looking forward to next year and building
on the success of this inaugural educational conference,” said
NPC CEO Dani Weatherford. “We’re already at work incorporating feedback from this year to plan the 2020 NPC Annual Educational Conference, and we hope you’ll save the date, Oct. 29-31, at The Galt House in Louisville, Kentucky.”
the TRIANGLE | spring 2020 13
“
I don’t think words can truly express the appreciation for my time spent in Italy
through Select Study Abroad. The program as a whole is a life changing experience and I wouldn’t have traded my summer for anything else. Being a sister of Sigma
Sigma Sigma has allowed me to experience incredible things both on campus and off. I was a part of the Ambassador Program, which was a completely immersive experience into the country’s culture, art, history, and food. This program has given me the courage to travel independently and intensified my desire to explore. My heart was left in Firenze, and I cannot wait to visit this beautiful country again.
- Kara Brzostowski, Epsilon Omicron Chapter at Illinois State University
”
See the World with Tri Sigma Select Study Abroad is proud to announce a summer study abroad session in Florence, Italy, and Mother and Daughter Trips for sorority members in Florence & Tuscany and Naples & the Amalfi Coast. Get ready to see the world, earn college credit, and experience life abroad, all while making lifelong connections with your fellow Tri Sigma sisters. The bond you share will only grow stronger while traveling together. Expand your world and your sisterhood! Dates for the 2021 season will be announced soon. For more information, visit selectstudyabroad.com.
2020
Prevention Institute This past January,
260 student leaders,
volunteers, advisors, and staff members came together for the 2020 Prevention Institute. The program focuses on the partnerships that are necessary between honor council, risk managers, officers, advisors, and the national organization to prevent harms and reduce risks.
The 2020 Prevention Institute content continued to focus on
building confidence in communication and confrontation, having effective honor council meetings and behavioral change goals, understanding the high-risk behaviors on college campuses,
and utilizing chapter-specific GreekLife.Edu data to develop an
annual prevention plan. New to the content in 2020 was a focus
National Vice Presidents Joyce O’Daniel and Heather Cruz
congratulated the following chapters and received their Prevention Awards from their coach.
Recognition • Beta Tau, University of Detroit Mercy
on the effects of alcohol on women, vaping, and cannabis use
• Delta Pi, Winthrop University
knowledge to support the development of their prevention plan,
• Eta Phi, Pratt Institute
during their chapter education programs.
• Gamma Iota, University of Massachusetts Amherst
and trends. The information was not only focused on providing
• Epsilon Pi, Presbyterian College
but also a call to ensure they are presenting relevant information
• Eta Sigma, Culver-Stockton College
• Gamma Pi, Nicholls State University
For the second year, Tri Sigma awarded the Prevention
Awards at the Prevention Institute based on the follow-through and implementation of the chapter prevention plan. There are two categories:
• Recognition: completed all aspects of the Prevention Plan, demonstrated follow-through on the initiatives, and mostly applied the prevention concepts correctly. This does not
mean the chapter reduced all harms, but instead, they were committed to taking steps for the better.
• Prevention Award: same criteria as above, and additionally, the plans were creative, had an outstanding application of the concepts, and progress reports communicated a commitment to the plan.
• Omicron, Eastern Michigan University • Theta Beta, University of Michigan-Flint • Theta Theta, Oakland University • Zeta Alpha, Bryant University • Zeta Chi, Coastal Carolina University • Zeta Kappa, Montclair State University
Prevention Award: • Beta Beta, Missouri State University • Gamma Lambda, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire • Gamma Mu, Southeastern Louisiana University • Theta Eta, Old Dominion University • Theta Zeta, Case Western Reserve University
the TRIANGLE | spring 2020 15
Welcome, New Sisters!
Beta Upsilon Chapter sisters hanging out between recruitment parties.
National Vice President, Joyce O’Daniel, poses with new sisters at the Theta Mu Chapter’s Bid Day.
Beta Upsilon Chapter sisters at the chapter’s Bid Day during the first primary recruitment since their establishment!
A new group of Theta Mu Chapter sisters celebrating Bid Day.
Beta Upsilon Chapter
Theta Mu Chapter
In January 2020, Beta Upsilon Chapter at Pennsylvania
In February 2020, Theta Mu Chapter was established at
since their establishment in 2019!
welcomed many new sisters!
Pennsylvania State University
State University celebrated their first primary recruitment
Randolph-Macon College
Randolph-Macon College in Ashland, Virginia, where we
@trisigma_psu
@trisigmarmc
@trisigma_psu
@trisigmarmc
the TRIANGLE | spring 2020 17
member news
Collegiate News PSI CHAPTER, MARSHALL UNIVERSITY
Primary recruitment for Psi Chapter at Marshall University was from Sept. 18-22, 2019. During the open house round, potential new
members were able to get to know multiple members within the
chapter. During the sisterhood round, active members were proud to share about their sisterhood within Tri Sigma both nationally
and here within Psi Chapter. During the philanthropy round, the chapter was able to share their passion for philanthropy and
community service. Many potential new members spoke about how they were passionate about community service and their interest in our philanthropies. During the preference round, they had the
opportunity to talk one-on-one and share more heartfelt stories about their journeys in their sisterhood, giving the women going through recruitment the chance to see what they could become a part of by choosing Tri Sigma. Sept. 22, 2019, was Bid Day and the Psi
Chapter was fortunate enough to welcome 15 intelligent, beautiful,
empowered young women and begin to teach them about Tri Sigma, while also helping them start writing their own Sigma stories.
ALPHA IOTA CHAPTER, NORTHEASTERN STATE UNIVERSITY On Nov. 9, 2019, the Alpha Iota Chapter celebrated 90 years and Psi Chapter fall 2019 Bid Day.
the Tulsa Area Alumnae Chapter joined in on the celebration. As
foregoing formalities is often seen at this type of celebration, they
all agreed a casual sisterhood event would be a lot of fun. The only thing missing was a roaring fire. Alpha Iota collected toys that will
be donated to Zayden’s Toy Drive, a local organization that donates to children’s hospitals across Oklahoma and Tulsa, and collected
books that will be delivered to Hillcrest NICU in Tulsa. Throughout
the event, there was a slideshow highlighting sisters from the many decades; photos that were found in the archives or sent in by
sisters. After the meal, attendees painted ornaments using supplies brought by Alpha Iota. This casual sisterhood event was indeed a whole lot of fun!
ALPHA MU CHAPTER, UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA AT LAFAYETTE
The Alpha Mu Chapter recently welcomed 49 new members into their national sisterhood. While this is exciting news, the chapter is also
proud to announce it successfully initiated four alumnae initiates. To make this announcement even more meaningful, all four alumnae Alpha Mu Chapter alumnae initiates Paula Graffeo, Kelly Gaubert, Shannal Himel, and Tessa Champagne.
18 the TRIANGLE | spring 2020
initiates are mothers of current active members of Alpha Mu.
Typically, the chapter initiates one alumnae initiate per year,
but members and their mothers were eager to experience this
amazing opportunity together. At the beginning of the fall semester,
the collegiate members notified the chapter advisor that their moms were ready to begin the alumnae initiate program and that they,
as collegiate members, would be their sponsors. Guided by the
chapter advisor and collegiate president, the mothers and daughters experienced Arc Degree and worked through the education
modules, preparing for the larger ceremony and the Triangle Degree of membership.
Tessa Champagne, Kelly Gaubert, Paula Graffeo, and Shanna
Himel were initiated into Tri Sigma as alumnae. While each motherdaughter duo has a special Sigma love story to tell, it would be
remiss not to share the experience of Shanna Himel, mother of the collegiate chapter president, Miranda Himel.
Shanna Himel participated in primary recruitment and accepted
a bid from Tri Sigma in the late 1980s. However, she claims
she lacked the courage and confidence to move forward with
membership and did not accept her invitation into Tri Sigma. After college, Shanna didn’t think of Tri Sigma again, until her daughter went through recruitment and accepted a bid from the Alpha Mu Chapter. “I know my mom was hesitant about me going Greek,
but after I met the most genuine friends and accepted leadership
positions, she started to see what Tri Sigma was really all about and how much I had grown from my experience,” said Miranda. After
hearing about the opportunity for alumnae initiates, Miranda realized how special it would be to share this sisterhood with her mother,
especially with her intimate role in the ritual events of Alpha Mu as
president. “It was such an honor to be invited again to become a Tri Sigma. I cannot thank Alpha Mu and all of Tri Sigma enough for this special memory and opportunity,” Shanna said.
Thanks to the alumnae initiate program, all the collegiate
members and their mothers were able to celebrate initiation and can continue celebrating Tri Sigma’s sisterhood.
ALPHA PI CHAPTER, CLARION UNIVERSITY
Clarion University of Pennsylvania is located in the small town of
Clarion, Pennsylvania. Each year, the town participates in what is
called the Autumn Leaf Festival in the early weeks of October. It is a week-long event that includes activities each night for all to join. On the last day of the festival, a Farmers and Crafters Day takes place
where the main street of the town is filled with over 300 vendors and crafters alike to show their creations. The Alpha Pi Chapter thought this would be a great way to showcase their philanthropy and love
for March of Dimes. Philanthropy chair, Rebecca Pietropaolo, set up a clean and safe changing area so parents would not have to worry
about where to go to change their children. The Alpha Pi Chapter is currently looking into how to keep this tradition going next year at the 67th Annual Autumn Leaf Festival.
ALPHA RHO CHAPTER, LOCK HAVEN UNIVERSITY
The Alpha Rho Chapter at Lock Haven University had the honor and privilege of helping in the installation of the Beta Upsilon Chapter at Penn State University. This experience was enriching for all.
Meeting new sisters, not only from the Penn State Chapter but also from Epsilon Eta Chapter at East Stroudsburg, created bonds and friendships that will last a lifetime. Meeting Executive Council was
also very exciting. Being that the Beta Upsilon Chapter is the closest Sigma chapter to Alpha Rho Chapter, they look forward to doing events together. All are looking forward to the new and exciting
Alpha Pi Chapter members from left to right: Lauren Magee,
Alpha Rho Chapter members Sarah Morganti, Theresa Perini,
Danielle Lippert.
President Natalie Averette.
Gabrielle Cheldin, Rebecca Pietropaolo, Clarice Pierson, and
Samantha Carlson and Serenity Schon pictured with National
the TRIANGLE | spring 2020 19
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Collegiate News
doors that this opportunity opened for the chapters as a sisterhood. Once again, thank you to the Beta Upsilon Chapter and Executive Council for this amazing, once in a lifetime opportunity.
ALPHA CHI CHAPTER, MURRAY STATE UNIVERSITY
Operation Christmas Child is a national organization that gives
children in third world countries Christmas presents who otherwise wouldn’t usually receive them. Over several weeks, sisters put
together shoe boxes of small toys, school supplies, and hygiene
items for the children to open on Christmas. The chapter made a
total of 50 boxes for girls and boys, ages 2-14. With 50 boxes, Alpha Chi Chapter ended up donating $750 worth of items. The chapter
enjoyed spreading holiday cheer, making the kids’ Christmas great, and getting involved in an awesome cause.
Chapter sisters participated in another organization’s
philanthropy event on the Murray State campus known as Rock-A-
Thon, which is a lip-sync and dance battle. For the sorority category, Alpha Chi came in first place while competing against six other organizations. Chapter sisters Isabel DiSalvo and Julia Spurrier coached and led the team of 13 to victory.
GAMMA BETA CHAPTER, EAST CAROLINA UNIVERSITY
The East Carolina University Panhellenic Council recently made a $30,000 gift to establish the Laura Ward Sweet Panhellenic
Scholarship Fund. This scholarship is available to all members of ECU’s Panhellenic community who have a minimum grade point average of 3.0 and demonstrate financial need. This scholarship
fund was named in honor of Laura Ward Sweet, Alpha Sigma
Chapter, who served as the East Carolina University Panhellenic advisor for more than 25 years. A few of Laura’s many
accomplishments include; past Tri Sigma National President,
delegate to the National Panhellenic Conference, and recipient of the National Panhellenic Conference Outstanding Panhellenic Award in 1993 and Sigma Sigma Sigma Founders Award in 2013.
Madeline McGeary, Gamma Beta Chapter collegiate member
and vice president of finance of East Carolina University’s
Panhellenic executive board, recognized financial need in the
Panhellenic community and sought to give back to her peers. “The
initial vision I had while brainstorming the idea of a scholarship was to allow women to earn their education, and experience the full
realm of sorority life while taking some financial responsibility off
their shoulders,” stated McGeary. McGeary joined her chapter in
the fall of 2016 and has since served as her chapter’s honor council
goals coordinator, parliamentarian, and representative of Tri Sigma at the 2019 Fraternal Government Relations Coalition.
With the help of Tyler Parker, ECU Panhellenic president, and
the rest of the Panhellenic executive board, The Laura Ward Sweet
Scholarship Fund was successfully passed through a tedious voting
process and bylaw addition. After weeks of meetings and proposals, with a unanimous “yes,” all 10 chapters on ECU’s campus agreed that the scholarship was a great idea, and it should be named
after the respected Tri Sigma woman, Laura Sweet. Parker stated,
“Panhellenic established this gift to support our members while also
Alpha Chi Chapter at the Murray State Rock-A-Thon. Top row (left to right): Emily Gulledge, Lauren Barto, Maddie Peterson, Sydni Harvey, Jordan Rudolph, Kendall Roberts, Madison
Mitchell. Middle row (left to right): Shannon Robinson, Jesse Alpha Chi Chapter member Lindy King alongside all 50 boxes donated to Operation Christmas Child.
20 the TRIANGLE | spring 2020
Shell, Lindy King, Reagan Melton, Ali Enax. Bottom row: Julia Spurrier, Isabel DiSalvo.
Laura Sweet, Alpha Sigma, with Gamma Beta Chapter and the
Gamma Mu Chapter members from left to right: Megan
Laura Ward Sweet Scholarship Fund.
Picado, Marcella Tedesco, Taylor Trail.
East Carolina University Panhellenic Council establishing the
recognizing the impact Laura has had on the Panhellenic community both at ECU and nationally.”
“Thank you to ECU Panhellenic women for supporting
academic scholarships for Panhellenic sisters. Thank you, in
advance, to Panhellenic alumnae sisters, families, and friends for
joining in this endeavor to show our youngest sorority women that
education is important and sorority membership is meaningful for a lifetime.” – Laura Ward Sweet.
GAMMA ZETA CHAPTER, SLIPPERY ROCK UNIVERSITY
The Gamma Zeta Chapter at Slippery Rock University won a contest in March of 2019, hosted by a local frozen yogurt shop called
Yumberries. Their fundraiser promoted their shop to the students in Greek Life on campus. Whichever Greek organization bought the
most frozen yogurt from them were then allowed to use the space outside of their store for their own fundraiser during the town of
Slippery Rock’s Annual Village Fest, hosted on Main Street. The
Gamma Zeta Chapter won this contest, so Foundation co-chairs, Madeline Reno and Lexie Simon, hosted Root Beer Floats for
Robbie outside of the shop. They couldn’t have picked a better day to sell ice cream, as it was a ninety-degree, sunny Saturday, and
they raised $500 for the Robbie Page Memorial Fund. Of the event, Reno recalled, “It was way more successful than we expected. It was an awesome experience, and I’m grateful to Yumberries for
giving us this opportunity to give back to a great cause.” Simon also said, “I’m excited about how our Root Beer Floats for Robbie event went. We had a lot of support from the Slippery Rock community, and as a chapter, we had a great time bonding and helping out a
worthy cause.” Gamma Zeta would like to thank Yumberries for this amazing opportunity!
Magri, Brailyn Bergeron, Claire McNeely, Ella Harvey, Gabby
GAMMA MU, SOUTHEASTERN LOUISIANA UNIVERSITY Every year, Gamma Mu Chapter hosts a fall fundraiser called
Rootin’ for Robbie, where they sell root beer floats benefiting the Robbie Page Memorial Fund. They sell the floats for two days in
the student union on the beautiful Southeastern Louisiana campus. The root beer floats each cost $2. Many people came to support
the fundraiser by buying a root beer float or even just donating to
the cause. Our sisters decorated signs and encouraged people that
were walking by to support the philanthropy. Over two days, Gamma Mu raised around $1,215. The chapter had a very successful year and looks forward to doing it again next fall.
EPSILON OMICRON CHAPTER, ILLINOIS STATE UNIVERSITY On April 17, 2019, the sisters of the Epsilon Omicron Chapter gathered together to host their first Spaghetti Tacos with the
Sigmas. Held at their house on the Illinois State University campus, the sisters invited chapters from all over campus to come share in
good company, listen to music, and play games, all while enjoying spaghetti tacos made by the sisters. The event was created by
the chapter’s internal philanthropy chair, Gabriella Pistorio. Pistorio
worked hard with a small group of sisters to create a fun, memorable event that they plan to continue in the years to come. Tickets were sold at two dollars apiece, and participants could either buy them
through one of the sisters or at the door. The ticket allowed access inside the first floor of the house and two tacos, along with drinks
and other snacks. There was a large turnout of people at the house, and since several people bought more than one ticket, the chapter
was able to raise $1,700. The chapter is excited to continue this new tradition and see what it has in store for the future.
the TRIANGLE | spring 2020 21
member news
Collegiate News Stanton also acted as one of the Greek Week chairs, showcasing
her love for the organization. Their dedication was impeccable, as
they began the process in March of that year, decided on a theme and when it was chosen, created a fun, compelling story using songs and dialogue to showcase what the chapter was about.
As the two took a trip through the classic game, they met lovable characters (played by sisters) along the way.
“It was a lot of fun,” Stanton said, “I won’t lie, it was very
stressful because I was running around and making sure that all of my sisters were set with their costumes and props, and verifying
that all of the music was done, and confirming that we had sisters
representing at all of our events — but it was really fun. I got close
with a lot of the sisters who were in Airband because we had been working together for such a long time, so that created a really close-knit family for us.” Epsilon Omicron Chapter members from left to right: Grace Elizabeth, Camille Lynn, Sarah Baran, Kris Dominiak.
It was that creation of family that helped them not only win
Greek Week but also grow as a chapter. After all, sisterhood and
family is at the core of Greek life, so that win showcased just what kind of family the chapter had been able to forge; one that could not only reach goals but could become closer along the way,
ZETA PSI CHAPTER, THE COLLEGE OF NEW JERSEY On Friday, May 3, 2019, Zeta Psi Chapter did something extraordinary: they won Greek Week.
Greek Week at The College of New Jersey is a big deal. It’s
where every sorority and fraternity chapter gets to showcase their dedication, enthusiasm, and pride in their organization. It’s where Zeta Psi got to show exactly what they could do when they work together.
That year, they partnered with the chapters of Delta Tau
Delta, Lambda Theta Phi, and Sigma Alpha Iota at the college to
compete in several competitions, from sporting events to karaoke night. They also became more informed members of Greek life
through events such as Tips Training and Piazza Family Speaks, which discussed hazing prevention.
But it was Airband that gave the final push needed to win.
Airband is the largest of the competitions for Greek Week. The organizations put on performances that included killer dance
moves, amazing lip-syncing, and creativity. Each dance expressed pride in the organization while also paying homage to several
things in pop culture, including Spongebob Squarepants, “Old
Town Road,” and in Zeta Psi’s performance, the beloved board game Candyland.
The performance was choreographed by Nicole Stanton
and Cierra Edwards, a current and alumna member, respectively.
22 the TRIANGLE | spring 2020
learning about and from one another while showing that despite their chapter size, they can achieve anything.
“I think it just validated all of the hard work that everyone
put into it,” Emily McMahon, a current member, said on the win’s significance. “It was a good morale booster for the chapter.”
The boost was certainly felt that night.
“I remember at Airband as we were sitting there, we were
calculating the points in our heads,” Stanton said. “We all just kind of looked at each other and went ‘no, that can’t be true.’”
However, it was: they had placed fourth overall, the highest
the chapter had ever placed. That got them right to the top, securing the win.
“Our team had been practicing for weeks so we could bring
a unique, fun, and clean-looking performance,” Katie Napolitano
said about that night. “After the adrenaline rush of being on stage, the only thing that could beat the feeling of accomplishing our
performance was when our Greek Week win was announced!”
That win showed them that their small chapter could move
mountains — that they could do anything they put their minds to when they work together. It forged new relationships and
strengthened old ones. It proved that Sigmas are steadfast, sure,
and truly faithful unto death to themselves, their chapter, and their little slice of Greek life at The College of New Jersey.
Alumnae News CHAPTER ADVISORY BOARD RETREAT
Gamma Alpha, Mary Ellen Kasian, Epsilon Eta, Michelle Osborn-
During the weekend of Nov. 8 – 10, 2019, 13 chapter advisory
Hallet, Epsilon Eta, Jamie Ready, Eta Pi.
networking retreat. Facilitated by Abby Pendleton and Wendy
CENTRAL MICHIGAN ALUMNAE CHAPTER
gather advisors to discuss topics of mentoring and coaching,
celebrate its 10th year of sisterhood in 2020. To kick off its
updates to support their volunteer work within the chapters
items to the Central Michigan University (CMU) Student Food
questions, and pre-research. As a sisterhood and philanthropy
chapter is planning other social and service events in 2020.
decorations that will be delivered to and hung in the Richmond
CHICAGO NORTH SHORE ALUMNAE CHAPTER
Chapter and Chicago NW Suburban Alumnae Chapter
board members gathered at the Mabel Lee Walton House for a Kirkpatrick of Alpha Chapter, the goal of the weekend was to
The Central Michigan Alumnae Chapter in Mount Pleasant will
generational dynamics, post-graduation engagement, and ritual
anniversary celebration, the sisters donated almost 100 food
they advise. Each topic was selected based on advisor interest,
Pantry as part of CMU Homecoming on Oct. 12, 2019. The
activity, attendees spent Saturday evening crafting holiday Children’s Hospital NICU located in Richmond, Va.
In November, sisters from the Chicago North Shore Alumnae
as a way for chapter advisors to share their experiences and
volunteered at the annual March of Dimes Signature Chefs
Walton House. Attendees of the retreat spanned almost 30
donations, and the live auction, helping the event raise over
served for as short as two months to as many as 10 plus years,
Delta, Beta Mu, Epsilon Eta, and Eta Pi. Attendees were: Abby
“Radical Candor.” After networking with snacks and drinks,
Kirkpatrick, Alpha, Cecilia Fruge, Alpha Mu, Dianne Trim, Alpha
the alumnae engage committee on how to live out the practices
The November 2019 retreat was the second retreat facilitated
ideas while visiting Tri Sigma’s Heart Home at the Mabel Lee
Auction in downtown Chicago. Sisters assisted with check-in,
years of membership in Tri Sigma, included advisors who have
$630,000 for the March of Dimes.
and represented the following chapters: Alpha, Alpha Mu, Beta
Chapter gathered to discuss the 2019 alumnae engage book,
Pendleton, Alpha, Caledonia (Callie) Darling, Alpha, Wendy
sisters engaged in a lively discussion facilitated by members of
Mu, Jardi Hulin, Alpha Mu, Lauren Green, Alpha Mu, Paula
of “Radical Candor” in their everyday lives.
In October, sisters from the Chicago North Shore Alumnae
Veuleman, Alpha Zeta, Lori Richards, Beta Delta, Lisa Koeller,
CAB volunteers outside Mabel Lee Walton House. Front row, left to right: Michelle Osborn-Hallet, Epsilon Eta, Jardi Hulin, Alpha Mu, Dianne Trim, Alpha Mu, Lauren Green, Alpha Mu, Abby Pendleton, Alpha. Middle row, left to right: Cecilia Fruge, Alpha Mu, Paula Veuleman, Alpha Zeta, Mary Ellen Kasian, Epsilon Eta, Caledonia (Callie) Darling, Alpha. Back row, left to right: Jamie Ready, Eta Pi, Lisa Koeller, Gamma Alpha, Lori Richards, Beta Delta.
CAB volunteers inside Mabel Lee Walton House. Front row, left to right: Cecilia Fruge, Alpha Mu, Paula Veuleman, Alpha Zeta, Caledonia (Callie) Darling, Alpha. Second row, left to right: Jardi Hulin, Alpha Mu, Abby Pendleton, Alpha, Jamie Ready, Eta Pi. Third row, left to right: Dianne Trim, Alpha Mu, Lauren Green, Alpha Mu Fourth row, left to right: Michelle Osborn-Hallet, Epsilon Eta, Lisa Koeller, Gamma Alpha. Back row, left to right: Lori Richards, Beta Delta, Mary Ellen Kasian, Epsilon Eta
the TRIANGLE | spring 2020 23
member news
Alumnae News
CHICAGO NORTHWEST SUBURBAN ALUMNAE CHAPTER
group to host a wine tasting, and a portion of the proceeds goes
an eventful fall. The group started the year in August at a fellow
included a fun gift exchange. Each member bought a pair of
discussed what events the alumnae group wanted to host for the
wanted, spending about $20-25. All members were excited about
able to travel to convention this past summer in Las Vegas shared
what items each member filled their fun holiday socks with. The
with an award the chapter received. The September meeting
the events planned throughout January and May.
faces to the group. A few members who haven’t been able to
DAYTONA BEACH AREA ALUMNAE CHAPTER
and catch up. The primary item discussed was for the October
Chapter members donated stuffed animals to the pediatric
March of Dimes. The October meeting was quite the evening.
with Tri Sigma’s philanthropy of serving children, the alumnae
easily completed the hat. Some members enjoyed the attempt
everyone to perform acts of kindness in his memory.
them. In total, the chapter made 10 hats to send to March of
GREATER CLEVELAND ALUMNAE CHAPTER
with silent auction items, basket raffles, and a fashion show with
collegiate sisters enjoyed a Carrie Underwood, Alpha Iota, concert
Suburban Alumnae Panhellenic hosted the event, which is a
Longwood Four wreath-making party with Panhellenic sisters from
college women. The mid-November event was with Wines for
sisterhoods at Longwood College.
The Chicago Northwest Suburban Alumnae Chapter had quite
directly back to the alumnae chapter. The December meeting
sister’s home for delicious snacks and conversation. They
festive holiday socks and filled it with any type of item they
remainder of 2019 through May 2020. The members who were
the new idea for the holiday party and anxiously waited to see
their experiences and lovely souvenirs they brought back, along
holiday party was a great way to end the year and look forward to
was at a local Starbucks with the hopes of recruiting some new join recently were in attendance, and it was nice to see them
In memory of Simon Strader, Daytona Beach Area Alumnae
meeting, where the group was going to crochet preemie hats for
ward at Advent Hospital in Ormond Beach, Florida. In keeping
Some members and their guests were skilled at crocheting and
thought this would be meaningful, as Simon’s parents challenged
to learn to crochet and realized that it might not be a hobby for Dimes. The November meeting started with a luncheon filled
The Greater Cleveland Alumnae Chapter and Theta Zeta Chapter
clothes from White House Black Market. The Chicago Northwest
in Cleveland in October. Alumnae sisters also participated in a
fundraiser for scholarships for high school seniors and sorority
Kappa Delta and Zeta Tau Alpha, celebrating the founding of both
Humanity. Wines for Humanity is an organization that allows the
The Central Michigan Alumnae Chapter members helping with the CMU food drive: Cam Marr Honer, Carol Andersen, Mary Nutt, and Jacqulyn Paris King.
24 the TRIANGLE | spring 2020
Chicago North Shore members Whitney Hedge, Gamma Lambda and Anna Blunk, Eta Theta at the March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction.
GREATER LOS ANGELES ALUMNAE CHAPTER
Members of the Greater Los Angeles Alumnae Chapter met in October to talk about the stigma surrounding women’s health and assemble menstrual hygiene kits for women in need. The
chapter started the event with a viewing of the award-winning documentary, “Period, End of Sentence.” After viewing and
discussing the film, everyone got to work assembling the kits.
Thanks to the generous donations of sisters both local and afar, the chapter was able to donate close to 60 period packs to the non-profit, Alexandria House. This was the second year they donated such kits to the organization.
HARRISBURG AREA ALUMNAE CHAPTER
The Harrisburg Alumnae Chapter was busy supporting the
March of Dimes. Earlier in the year, the chapter hosted a Bubble Zone and participated in the local walk. Members worked the
registration table at the Signature Chefs Auction in October. They also assisted with registration at the Transportation, Building & Construction Awards Breakfast hosted by the March of Dimes in November. Lastly, three of their members traveled to the
Horsham Air Station to volunteer at the Military Baby Shower
hosted by the March of Dimes alongside alumnae sisters from
Philadelphia and collegiate members from the Delta Psi Chapter at St. Joseph’s University.
Chicago North Shore and Chicago SW Suburban Alumnae Chapter members Ashlie Riskey, Beta Phi, Jill Schmidt, Epsilon Omicron, Lisa Daniels, Gamma Alpha at the March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction.
INDIANAPOLIS SUBURBAN ALUMNAE CHAPTER
The Indianapolis Suburban Alumnae Chapter participated in an Honor Flight homecoming ceremony on Oct. 26, 2019. Sisters
Emily Mettler Stephens and Jodi Matheny Brown are volunteers for the Honor Flight National Network that recognizes veterans and gives them the appreciation they deserve for serving the
country in the WWII, Korean War, and Vietnam War eras. Both
Stephens and Brown served as Guardians (escorts) for veterans, and Stephens has also been a bus captain for the Honor Flight.
Sisters attended a meeting before the Honor Flight homecoming to learn about the program from a Vietnam veteran and a board member of the organization. Veterans fly from Indianapolis, or
one of the many national hubs, to Washington D.C. for the day
to tour the War Memorial Monuments honoring those who have served and sacrificed for the country. To make this event even
more special, Tom Mann, husband of sister Nancy Sauer Mann, was on the flight escorted by their son, Michael. T. Mann, who
was given a Bronze Star Medal for heroism advancing in the face of the Viet Cong.
Other Indianapolis Suburban Alumnae activities this year
have included a 30th anniversary celebration of Epsilon Xi
Chapter at Indiana University, volunteering at the March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction and Gala, and a March of Dimes baby
shower. Upcoming chapter events include a tour of the Eiteljorg
Chicago Northshore Alumnae Chapter member Lisa Daniels, Gamma Alpha, with the Radical Candor book.
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member news
Alumnae News
Sigma Sisters attending the Carrie Underwood concert in Cleveland. Left to right back: Cheryl Schinagle Cameron, Kappa, Veronica Madell, Theta Zeta, Cindy Schneider, Kappa, Sue Poe Flowers, Kappa, Lorin Philips, Alpha Upsilon, National Treasurer Ann DeCecco Rutkowski, Epsilon Delta, Jacqueline Abraham, Theta Zeta; Cherie Pettit Pandora, Kappa; and Mary Price, Theta Zeta.
Chicago NW Suburban members Karrie Kinsella Benjamin, Susie Fox, Marilyn Tantillo, Jan Wall Fedanzo, Jeanne Hausman Chamberlain, Michelle Tantillo, Samantha Krause, Elaine Donenberg, Kay Marquardt Beaty, Janet Adams Granzin, Angela David with preemie hats.
Daytona Beach Area Alumnae Chapter members Margie Wright Harmon, Gamma Beta, Peggy Gamble, Alpha Sigma, Judy Johnson Assad, Gamma Kappa, Izzy Bird McBrayer, Eta Tau, Mary Ann Owens Abell, Alpha Chi, Ann Hardin Register, Alpha Psi with their act of kindness in memory of Simon Strader, the son and great nephew of a Tri Sigma—stuffed animals collected for a local hospital.
26 the TRIANGLE | spring 2020
Cindy Schneider, Kappa, Cherie Pettit Pandora, Kappa, Erin Ryan McCafferty, Beta Tau, Cheryl Schinagle Cameron, Kappa, and Greater Cleveland members displaying their handmade wreaths from the Longwood Four party.
Harrisburg Alumnae Chapter members at the Military Baby Shower. Back row: Annamarie Shutey Mellett, Alpha Pi, Lauren Cunkelman, Alpha Delta, Helen Eades Wagner, Alpha Theta, Lori Hoover Richard, Beta Delta, Jenna Mueller Harris, Alpha Rho, Natasha Triplett, Iota Alpha
Museum, a visit to Holcomb Observatory and Planetarium, a
holiday cookie swap, a wine and canvas event, a ladies’ tea, and a celebration of Beta Gamma Chapter’s 75th anniversary. LONG BEACH ALUMNAE CHAPTER
For a small chapter, Long Beach Alumnae Chapter makes a big impact in their community. Each year they make several dozen blankets for Miller’s Children’s Hospital in Long Beach. The
director of the Child Life Program told the chapter when they
delivered the blankets, “We count on you!” They also filled 23 boxes for Operation Shoe Box.
Their tropical breezes cocktail party raised money for the
March of Dimes. They also knitted chemo caps for the cancer
center at Long Beach Memorial Hospital. At their holiday party, they collected socks for the homeless.
So whether it is local, national, or international-loving, giving,
and sharing are a big part of the Long Beach Alumnae Chapter. MILWAUKEE ALUMNAE CHAPTER
The Milwaukee Alumnae Chapter gets together from September through June, with a calendar of events that includes five or six
business meetings, a Founders Day celebration, fun fundraisers
and a number of lively yet relaxing outings like duckpin bowling,
Nancy (Sauer) Mann with her veteran husband Tom Mann along with the rest of her family at the Honor Flight homecoming.
candy-making at holiday time, Lunch or Brunch Bunch, and Halloween at Old World Wisconsin. They support their local
March of Dimes partners at their events and through behind-thescenes projects.
The chapter enjoys the active participation of a half-dozen
recent Golden Violets, including two who routinely host their
favorite events and one who travels over an hour to join them. Their roster also is blessed with several alumnae initiates and recent college graduates, along with their core of long-time members.
NASHVILLE ALUMNAE CHAPTER
Nashville Alumnae Chapter met at Arrington Vineyards for a wine tasting and discussed their successful fall meetings. Members participated in the Susan G. Komen’s More Than Pink Walk to honor sisters who have battled breast cancer. Members
also enjoyed meeting for brunch and celebrating each other’s successes.
PHILADELPHIA AREA ALUMNAE CHAPTER
The Philadelphia Area Alumnae Chapter met in August to hold
Initiation and Circle Degree for two new sisters and celebrate the end of the summer. Welcome to Tri Sigma, Natasha and Karen!
the TRIANGLE | spring 2020 27
member news
Alumnae News
Milwaukee alumnae try duckpin bowling. Pictured: Nancy Niesen Butch, Beta Lambda, Donna Niesen Danihel, Beta Lambda, Cindy Geurts Blanchet, Iota Alpha, Raven Wilson, Epsilon Kappa, and Alissa Peeters, Gamma Lambda.
Jodi Matheny Brown alongside her veteran when serving as an Honor Flight Guardian.
PHOENIX ALUMNAE CHAPTER
sold pecans as a fundraising project and look forward to giving to
Phoenix Alumnae Chapter participated in multiple community
local children’s play therapy programs.
Sumares Stangl, Sue Modispacher Smith, Rena Garcia Cruse,
SOUTHERN NEVADA ALUMNAE CHAPTER
Jackson joined other volunteers to assist the Maricopa Health
Chapter at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, teamed up and
members made donations to the foundation to help provide
to engage with the collegiate chapter and offer advice or help
are starting with philanthropy, Founders Day, and recruitment
service events throughout the year. This year members Colleen Maryellen Drasler Baxter, Anne Lussky Ruiz and Kathy Miller
The Southern Nevada Alumnae Chapter and the Theta Epsilon
Foundation to distribute filled backpacks. Other chapter
created collegiate committees. This was for the alumnae members
school supplies to fill the backpacks.
with certain projects pertaining to a particular committee. They
in economically disadvantaged areas in Phoenix. The goal is for
committees as those are the most versatile and need the most
should start school with a backpack filled with the tools they
The annual event makes a real difference in children’s lives
kids to show up to school healthy and ready to learn. Every child
assistance.
need to succeed!
the chance to offer their expertise in a certain area, and for the
SARASOTA/MANATEE COUNTIES ALUMNAE CHAPTER
sisters are unable to commit.
The sisters of the Sarasota-Manatee Alumnae Chapter meet
The idea behind these committees is to allow alumnae
collegiate chapter to have more hands-on-deck when collegiate
regularly for business meetings and luncheons. Last year, a
SOUTHERN WV ALUMNAE CHAPTER
victims of human trafficking, spoke to the chapter, which resulted
interact with their local collegiate chapter, Alpha Alpha Chapter,
distributed to women in need. Each holiday season, they donate
Concord’s first home football game and invited Alpha Alpha’s
representative of Selah Freedom, an organization that helps
The Southern WV Alumnae Chapter is always looking for ways to
in a service project. The members gathered toiletries to be
at Concord University. This fall, they hosted a tailgate during
gift cards to Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center. This year, they
members to attend. The tailgate provided a great opportunity
28 the TRIANGLE | spring 2020
Milwaukee Alumnae Chapter members support at March for Babies. Pictured front row: Kate Maikowski Wolf, Alpha Xi, with Adam and Karen Cartwright Lowerr, Beta Pi. Back row: Donna Niesen Danihel, Beta Lambda, Alissa Peeters, Gamma Lambda, Pam Snyder Johnson, Gamma Lambda, Krista Schmidt Konetzke, Beta Pi, and Gabi Smeltzer Waite, Alpha Xi.
for alumnae and collegiate women to get to know each other in a
casual setting, and showed the collegiate women how their love for Tri Sigma and their alma mater lasts long past their college days. WICHITA KANSAS ALUMNAE CHAPTER
The sisters of the Wichita Kansas Alumnae Chapter gathered
in October 2019 to make fleece tie blankets for a local charity. Members had initially aimed to donate blankets to a local
hospital’s trauma unit, but when contacted to organize a drop off date, the hospital was already overloaded with blankets. As a chapter, it was agreed that the blankets should go to an organization with the most need, and a recipient was
quickly found. The chapter already had a night scheduled to cook dinner for a local Ronald McDonald House, and when
approached about donating the fleece blankets to them, they
were overjoyed! So, not only did members get to give time and love by making the guests a home cooked meal, but those guests also received a cozy gift.
Something that has become a tradition with the members
is going to a Broadway musical each year. For the year of 2019, “Jersey Boys” was the musical of choice, which was preceded by dinner at a local restaurant. “Waitress” is the next pick and will be coming soon in the spring.
Nashville alumnae members pictured left to right first row: Kathie Baker Heimerdinger, Alpha Psi, Jessica Anderson Gaines, Beta Epsilon, Elaine Rashmawy Turner, Alpha Nu, Julie Lammel, Alpha Sigma. Second row: Linda Dove, Delta Delta, Debbie McMahon Dishman, Alpha Nu, Ashley Bullock, Zeta Epsilon.
Congratulations Alumnae Initiates Julie Royal Montgomery, Nu Robin Anderson Palmer, Nu Tracy Tiffee Morgan, Alpha Iota Kelly Callais Gaubert, Alpha Mu Paula L. Graffeo, Alpha Mu Shanna Lirette Himel, Alpha Mu Tessa Savoy Champagne, Alpha Mu Margaret Rennick, Alpha Pi Christine Granacki Roof, Alpha Chi Anna Joplin DeClue, Beta Xi Deanne Sippel Drew, Beta Xi Jayne King Dougherty, Beta Xi Karen Munro, Beta Xi Sheri Schurlknight Thompson, Delta Pi Danielle Machenry Brown, Epsilon Epsilon Audra Wegscheider Case, Eta Theta Erica Chatman Barnes, Iota Alpha ChrisAnn Polino Miranda, Zeta Alpha Maria Mugno DiCosimo, Zeta Kappa Susan Lavorgna Harlow, Zeta Kappa
the TRIANGLE | spring 2020 29
member news
75 year Members ALPHA Elizabeth Scott Bane Shirley Slaughter Embrey Anne Mingea Goodpasture Carol Jenkins Michael Mary Morris Slaughter Nancy Walton Squire Anne Haskins Tucker Helen Hope Worsham Virginia Guy Yonce ZETA Wanda Elenor Beiling Dorothy Ann Butler Wilma Kuney Fargo Hilda Day Fitch Patricia Gillian Furness Elizabeth Mary Jennings Patricia Mary McGinty Dorothy Hare Neal Mary Joan O’Connell Mary Hollands Provin Barbara Wilson Rauth Margaret Engelmann Robson Ruth Esther Sander Barbara Baumer Seamon Jeanette Semenuk Silberman Janet Forbes Snyder Ruth Jane Stickney Elizabeth Kempkes Waclawek Shirley MacLochlon Walsh Ruth Toolen Weber Rita Longo Zalewski LAMBDA Thelma Thomas Baird Ruth Rhea Boyd Louise Buchanan Cooper Eleanor Marie Derabasse Margorie Lawson Hill Mary Ann Master Maryann Swisher Mitchell Lois Gordon Uhrin Joanna Joseph Welton MU Mary Dawdy Bethel Doris McClanahan Biggerstaff Elsie Sutton Brown Betty Stinson Elliott Corrine Henrietta Gilbert Mary Northcutt Louise O’Reilly Jolene Underhill Pink Elizabeth Hamilton Schnackel Janey Penwell Townsley Mary Elizabeth Willey NU Alice Searfoss Allen Annette Clatworthy Baker June Frame Carr Lenora Damron Cramer Anna Lewis Dennis Virginia Cross Eddleman Jean Minert Green Wanda Smith Jacoby Betty Feagans Jennison Challis Johnson Johnson Margaret Mudd Jost
Katherine Hall Kramer Billie Stewart McCracken Patricia Wilkinson Schmidt Gloria Single Stiegemeier Lillian Herzog Weaver XI Obera Maedgen Brown Dorothy Lee Chalmers Juanita Pahl Frost Mary Ellen Lindley Lois Toner Rust OMICRON Thora Small Beard Margaret Dohm Charbeneau Doris Kays Kraushaar Thurley Hipple Marsh Patricia Harrison Patton Eloise D. Sievert Lois Wiseman Simpson Patricia Pretty Streat PI Norma Lewis Bletscher June Crawford Byrd Marjorie Fanestil Chamberlain Grace Thresher Davis Bettie Banks Donly Imogene Richards Flott Lois Bibler Hall Challa Ireland Jones Jeanne Belting Juhlin Shirley McNichol Kroeger Laura Kuhlmann McAntee Treva Mallary McCandless Betty McKenney Palmer Dorothy Dale Phelps Arlie Crabb Riggs Martha Ann Wilhelm SIGMA Jean Marshall Baldwin Katherine Sievers Boyd Lucile Roe Cayler Dorothy Dutemeyer Joyce Blackstock Elliot Doris Lucero Fresques Genevieve Miller O’Halloran Lillian Runyon Peth TAU Margie Ladd Ingram Neva Eutsler Ramirez UPSILON Stella Rose Chowins Roselle Stanford Crownover Thelma Fidler Gance Margareet Howard Harris Martha Ann Kelly Helen Louise Laird Evelyn Louise Lewis Carolyn Miller Neldene Louise Rice Lela Mae Shipley Julia E. Talbert Martha Greer Tassin
30 the TRIANGLE | spring 2020
CHI Norma Hinton Agnew Nancy Horton Bowlus Donna Panknin Denton Laura Rush Geary Wanda Lee Ferguson Hickman Margaret Kenney Klump Dorothy Hammick Mills Janet Peck Morris Patricia Todd Orey Rogene Nordstedt Penny Ann Alexander Reed Mary LeRoy Stice Dorothy Simion Sullinger PSI Mary Lee Link Allen Mary Dandelet Austin Edna Wood Bing Betty Dunn Bucko Joan Whitley Cole Helen Dandelet Betty Mann Foard Jewel Mullens Frazier Ann Clark Holt Virginia Caviness Houchins Carolyn Law Lanham-Mahs Rebecca Satterwhite McComas Phyllis Schumaker McKenzie Elizabeth Lyon Miller Joanne Whittaker Newman Mabel Heaton Patterson Virginia Broaddus Ray Ann Loy Robbins Constance Barrett Sauer Sally Schultz Shank Jo Anne Shivel Shively Betty Blair Slack Betty McGrew Stenhouse Carolyn Reed Templeton Beverly Wegwart Trowbridge Martha Martin Van Nostran Claire Brewer Verwer Ruth Kimberling Winters Shirley Spradlin Wolfe Agnes Keesee Woods ALPHA ALPHA Marguerite Hinty Brown Mary Goodwin Fogg Norma Lindley Hall Araminta Hale Johnston Annabelle Laing Mary Burgess Morgan Margaret Ann Murphy Florence Ellison Newland Gertrude Crute Snidow Alice Dawson Ward ALPHA BETA Betsy Fish Alberts Carol Fenton Burkholder Isobel Shively Edgerton Shirley Williams Larson Janet Irons Mountford ALPHA GAMMA Rosemary Duncker Kraus Gertrude Durbus Miller ALPHA DELTA Mary Long Bowden Elizabeth Lentz Burke Helen Scott Clatterbuck Carolynn Cramer Mabel Trout Dashiell Rosemary Leonard Driscoll
Kathryn R. Dunkel Lorna Pratt Grentzenberg Helen Marie Cummings Hamilton Marcia Chambers Herrick Betsy MacGarrigle Holland Lorene Holland June Gemmill Kauffman Harriette McLean Kenworthy Vivian Datz Lowry Mildred Tombler Lynch Regina Kelly Parks Loretta Rauch Shirley Goss Reese Muriel Tedrow Reihl Anne Conrad Stoll Kathryn P. Stratton Anne Swingler Juanita Conroy Williams ALPHA EPSILON Joyce Gunderson Anderson Meredee Myers Baade Yvonne Yeater Boeger Joan Miller Freeman Esther Marguerite Gasper Mary Osborn Hamilton Judy Harper Jennings Margaret Wade Long Betty Jean Martin Joann Reed Irene Whitmore Renshaw Iris Wehrli Scott Naomi McQuate White ALPHA ZETA Marian Cocke Millicent Arnold Irish Yvonne Bailey Killen Claire Courtney Landry Lydia Prest Loritsch Alice Elizabeth Martin Carmen Courtney McNabb Rowena Taliaferro Merryman Dorothy Hurley Osborn Doris Ott Virginia Loraine Paul Mary Lee Sigler Posey Marion Frances Potts Virginia Walker Reed Mary Butler Smith ALPHA THETA Alice Sykes Barnett Sara Porterfield Eades Marie Gilliland Flanagan Jacqueline McFall Hartman Ruby Ramsey Hodges Peggy Wood Hughson Eva Phipps Kelly Doris Hoy Kinzie Mary Jessee Kiser Ada Morgan Mona Jean Morse Sue Harmon Roberts Jane Painter Wall ALPHA IOTA Susan Fox Brennan Betty Neumeyer Carlow Mary Moran Haggard Carolyn Williams Hall Kathryn Key Houx Brookie Fink Maycher Nell Ogden Virginia Rutherford Robinson Helen Rodgers Starnes
ALPHA LAMBDA Audry Westerholt Behr Martha Patricia Cronin Jean Riedmeyer Gregory Jean Fritzi Jaech Gloria Althoff McNamara Lee Luedde Moeller Junanita Monken Ostendorf Mary Mees Rudoff Bernadine Engelbrecht Taylor Virginia Winter-Moellenhoff June Rock Witzl ALPHA MU Gloria Marquette Arboneaux Mary De La Rue Beyer Fleta Hollier Boagni Elizabeth Ruth Burke Juanita Overby Courtney Christine McCorkle Crochet Helen Wainwright Domingue Marilyn White Dykes Unifred Provost Guillory Jean Audrey Harlan Judith Mouton Hebert Mona Hemphill Hollier Willanna Edwards James Betty Jane Johnson Betty Bell Logan Mary Ellen McEniry Norma Overbey Meyers Mary Rasberry Miller Hilda May Neal Lucy Miller Vincent Dorothy Claire White Joyce Stevens White Gloria Landry Wiggins ALPHA NU Patricia Ashley Akin Betty Keller Casper Pauline Rose Crader Billie Landers Criminger Elaine Dassing Evers Marian Keooghan Gilpin Betty Maddex Goddard Margaret Wilburn Henderson Essie Wogmon Herrell Lois Pierce Hewitt Doris Van Buskirk Hooper Geraldine Coale Howden Margaret Easton Joliff M. Lorraine Carrington Koets Elmer Barnes McCarty Mary Meyers Miller Bette Stader Mulligan Helen Palmer Nelson Peggy Adams Orsborn Laline Lord Oser Josephine Vickers Paulson Ethel Doelling Peters Wanda Conrad Pirtle Cecilia Brush Ringhofer Iva Sichling Rogers Mary McDowell Rogers Patricia Parks Sitter Elta Willms Smith Sofia Constance Theofanopoulos Janis Marion Wilhelm ALPHA XI Priscilla McKewan Curran Georgia Vannie Hess Sally Fenner Johnson Helen Kratzat Reinholz Magdalene Gaveras Wos
ALPHA OMICRON Ruby Galloway Farish Mary Leslie Fitzgibbon Callie King Goodwin Billy Rhodes Henry Calla Harper Rainbolt Julia Hogg Roach Billy High Shumate Ida Redman Smith Patricia Henigan Threet ALPHA PI Betty Underwood Boyer Jean Blake Ferguson Joyce Simpson Lignelli Ann Carrier Mayo Norma Bloom Siar Bertha Thompson Wallace ALPHA RHO Mary Raymond English Sara Zubler Frazier Mary Curran Loughran Mary Jane Marschik Mary King Pierce Carol Louise Roper M. Louise Stabler ALPHA SIGMA Lavonne Jones Bates Yuvette Kelly Carter Lorene Tullos Mangum Jean Curry McGregor ALPHA TAU Golda Brein Chernow Charlotte Ruth Hunt Alberta Lockhead Lasham Margaret Jeanne Ragozzino Anne Handrich Schmid Helen Geralis Stathopoulos Marjorie Wedding Sumner Doris Adair Watson Edith Fraser Weinrich ALPHA UPSILON Alice Sherman Bovee Evelyn Fosnight Burke Anna Reeves Clark Mildred Burford Clarke Margaret Paret Duncan Anne Petticrew Elliott Louise Taylor Felts Dorothy Sutton Gardner Virginia Dodd Good Helen McCue Goodykoontz Helen Gibson Gunter Jo Ann Johnson Halpert Olive James Hawkins Gwendolyn Snapp Hudson Barbara Conrad Larcombe Velva Shumate Love Harriette Thomas McGinnis Shirley Elliott Moberg Louise Wyatt Patterson Marjorie Schultz Pierce Margaret Grimes Powell Jeanne Prasse Phyllis Leach Terry ALPHA PHI Barbara LaVada Blaylock Joyce Hillen Marjorie A. Janson Lillian S. Keefer Jane VanDerbeck Park Louise Slykes Raymor Patricia Slaughter Juanita DeMott Vogelsberg
Marilyn LePard Wardrop Sally Carnahan Weisenburger
Shirley Blair Lovell Virginia Baker Malloy Bettie June Matlock Wilda Jones Mitchell Gladys Wickizer Moon DeLacy Hunt Nelms Doris Crews Newman Emily Scott O’Reilly Virginia Lewis Rittenhouse Gloria Warren Smith Vada Pemberton Steinbrook Billie Ann Schaller Swenson Emma Lou Burns Thraen Marjorie Jeanette Turk Bobbie Sanford Webb Billie McKenzie White Frances Green Yeomesmaus
ALPHA CHI Maxine C. Bell Benn Arnold Butterworth LaVerne Clapp Patty Sue Clopton Martha Sue Crosby Veda Hallam Etheridge Violet Blackwell Evans Mary Bottom Gresham Martha Houston Hale Ann Owen Kuhn Rosemary Legeay Mary Stokes Russell Evelyn Dawson Stockley Doris June Stribling Betty Ann Wake Mary Hitchen Walsh Joy Bennett Wernet ALPHA PSI Patsy Mason Benge Betty Jane Boley Eloise Crouse Favis Joyce Grinstead Feiler Cleora Creviston Fitzgerald Shirley Middlesworth Hill Barbara Ringo Knott Emma Catherine McQueen Arlene Swearingen Muthersbough Alma Patterson Pancoast Ariel Bowman Stuckey Harriet Kinney Watts Betty Faye Wellman BETA ALPHA Jane Groves Bastian Natalie Chapman Calhoun Mary Jane Zurick DeCamp Dorothy Poole Dill L. Ione Babcox Elmendorf Jean Coleman Erickson Mary Wagner Hill Beverly Vose Kelton Marjorie Swanson Kienappel Virginia Dailey Kilburn Harriet Wedberg Kinnealy Margery Goetz Kleist Muriel Mapes LaVanne Leatrice Banks Lees Shirley Jahn Milburn Janet Fisk Neill Bettie Ringberg O’Neal Bonnie Peterson Prentice Mary Sanders Ryan Janet Glueck Sack Evelyn Eames Warn Betty Naegele Winsauer BETA BETA Bonnie Jean Alexander Beryldene Bryson Appleby Martha Foster Applequist Lois Wattenbarger Arthur Bonnie Beatria Bayless Margret Thomas Beazley Wanda Overby Beyers Adelaide Tarleton Bryant Ruth Reed Byers Jean Clarke Drumwright Olive Schmid Gleason Betty Jane Goodman Louanna Gray Harriette Davis Hoppe Harriett Sherer Hutchens Betty Mahood Hybarger Connie Whipple Jones
BETA GAMMA Bronna Montgomery Boling Ellamae Owens Bowers Jane Shafer Burt Virginia Touby Coan Joan Touby Coburn Ellen Riley Cole Annabel Shafer Conn Lenore M. Cupp Betty Rothhaar Edsall Martha Shelley Ervin Ethel Jane Gantz Doris Ann Hasler Fannie Young Howick Florence Curtis Jones Joyce Unger Kellam Elsin Tillett Kimmons Olive Fahler King Marjorie Phares Madden Patricia Joan Mauller Norma Love Milhollin Doris Morris Miller Pauline Knecht Mitchell Mary Sheets Myers Lois Norton Norma Barber Plank Mary Frances Reed Carol Brouse Salvers Marguerite Shepherd Helen Bales Sheppard Eleanor Cecil Socin Betty Resler Thalls BETA DELTA Elizabeth Cockrill Baechtel Dorothy Lee Cox Mary Peters Coyle Nancy Miller Dieudonne Mary Hartzell Dobbins Anne Hardesty Driver Mazie Beverly Hammond Katherine Harmison Horner Pauline Eva LaLonde Harriet Virginia Leach Frances Virginia Lewis Rosemary Lyne Frances Trimble Miller Jane Snyder Miller Helen Boltz Murphy Jeanne Myers Price Jean Snyder Schley Rita Fearnow Shaw Helen McKee Simpson Margaret Jean Skinner Marion Myers Skinner Edna Mason Snyder Mary Cecelia Sullivan Jane Alther Troupe Grace Yoke White Margaret Eleanor Whitmore
the TRIANGLE | spring 2020 31
foundation
Making a Difference in the Life of a Sister My Tri Sigma experience has instilled a firm belief that education is key to unlocking our sisters’ futures – giving them exposure and leadership experiences needed to make a difference in the world.
When my employer announced they would be matching donations for scholarships, I knew I
wanted to take advantage of this opportunity. A foundation scholarship would ensure my legacy lived on, and it would benefit a Sigma sister every year.
This fall, I received a letter from the first recipient of my scholarship, Adele Nader, Epsilon
Upsilon Chapter at Marist College. As you can see from the excerpt, she has charted a course to make a difference in our world. She is currently working as a research assistant for a professor P.S. Read more stories
focusing on the effects of welfare programs in developing countries. She dreams of working for
of 2019-2020 Foundation Scholarship recipients on the next page.
international organizations such as the United Nations, World Bank, International Monetary Fund, and the World Economic Forum. Reading her letter made me realize this was no longer about the women I hoped I could empower, but this was my impact in action.
You have an opportunity to join me and see your impact in action. I hope this Founders Day
you see the faces of real Sigmas who have benefited from our mission, but most importantly, I hope you consider the women who still need our support.
You and I can empower strong Sigma leaders our world needs that are character-focused and
committed to serving others. I hope I can count on you to make a difference in the life of a sister.
To make your Founders Day gift on April 20th, please visit trisigma.org/donate. In our bonds,
Bonnie Rainey, Alpha Sigma
Chair, Foundation Board of Directors
“My goal is to make a difference and be the change I want to see in the world - helping anyone, anywhere, and anyhow. You have lightened my financial burden, which allows me to focus more on the most important aspect of school, learning, and giving. I hope one day I will be able to help students achieve their goals just as you have helped me.” - Adele Nader, Epsilon Upsilon
32 the TRIANGLE | spring 2020
Empowering Achievement Mary Crumpton Brown Scholarship Recipient
Thank you for providing this incredible
Dixie Cremeans Shelton Scholarship Recipient
I wanted to reach out with utmost
resource so that I can continue to follow
gratitude and thanks for your generosity in
my dreams.
establishing the Dixie Shelton Scholarship
My plans include teaching high-risk
Fund that the Sigma Sigma Sigma
students in the Grand Rapids school
Foundation has granted me. Studying child
district. I want to work somewhere that
life significantly influenced my decision to
I can change the lives of students. A
long-term goal of mine is also to influence Michigan legislation within the realm of education. I find it very important that our
lawmakers have experience within the field they are legislating for before they pass regulations concerning it. If I could have
my experienced voice somewhere within this, influencing laws
concerning our schools, then I would feel as if I am truly making a difference for our students.
join Tri Sigma after seeing the role that play
therapy has in our philanthropy. My membership in the sorority
sparked a seemingly endless chain of events and opportunities that continue to help me grow as a student, leader, and professional.
Brooklynn Nguyen,
Eta Kappa Chapter at Texas Woman’s University
Gabrielle Ramon,
Epsilon Gamma Chapter at Grand Valley State University
Ann & Charlie Rutkowski Scholarship Recipient
Because of you, a heavy weight has been
Stephanie Sabol Strom Scholarship Recipient
My plans for the future include fixing
lifted from my shoulders. I can purchase
our public education system at the base
books for my first semester of law school.
level, particularly focusing on at-risk
Like you, I value education greatly, and
students, using research, prevention and
I am so thrilled to continue my education.
intervention programs, and providing
I chose to go to law school because I want
policy advocation. Tri Sigma has granted
to be a voice for others and empower
others. When I was in high school, my family began adopting
children, and I was directly impacted by my parents’ adoption attorney. She helped us adopt my five youngest siblings. I
do not know what type of law I intend to practice following
school, but I do know I will find my passion and use my degree to impact others.
Caitlin Andrews Barrett,
Alpha Iota Chapter at Northeastern State University
me a plethora of opportunities in my
undergraduate career, such as leadership positions, volunteer work, an incredible bond of sisters that I will now have for life that have gotten me to this successful point in my graduate
work. With your investment, I will make a difference not only
on the California and Tri Sigma community but, ultimately, on the world.
Nicole Faraci,
Zeta Delta Chapter at State University of New York-Oneonta
the TRIANGLE | spring 2020 33
foundation
2019-2020 RPM Grant Recipients Thanks to the generosity of Tri Sigmas and friends, the Foundation awarded 34 local Robbie Page Memorial grants for 2019-2020, totaling $129,992 in community support for children and families. This year’s RPM grants provide essential financial support across 20 different states.
Additionally, local grants were awarded to three organizations in partnership with individual alumnae – Lauren
Pontiff, Gamma Pi; Jenny Watson, Beta Gamma; and Janell Weaver, Epsilon Eta. The 2020-2021 RPM Grant application deadline is April 30, 2020. For more information, visit trisigma.org/apply-for-grant. Akron Children’s Hospital Funding for tactile, hearing, and visual sensory items for the inpatient unit. Nominated by Alpha Beta – Kent State University
Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh Funds for play items for Activity Centers which provide normalization and diversion. Nominated by Alpha Pi - Clarion University
Arkansas Children’s Hospital Funding for Nurture Smart Mobiles to provide music and sensory stimulation for infants. Nominated by Alpha Omicron – University of Central Arkansas
Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital Funding for sensory items to support children through their procedures and tests and provide an alternate focal point to ease anxiety and increase coping. Nominated by Theta Zeta – Case Western Reserve University Community PedsCare Funding for technology resources to run the Unyte biofeedback software which helps patients learn to control their heart rate and reduce stress. Nominated by Jenny Watson, Beta Gamma – Ball State University Cooper University Hospital Funding for music therapy program to allow patients to make original recordings and items that allow children to more easily engage in the therapeutic activities. Nominated by Epsilon Epsilon – Stockton University
Baystate Health Foundation/Baystate Medical Center Funding for Baby Einstein Sea Dreams Soothers to ease the anxiety and Go Kart Kiosks for the Pediatric floor. Nominated by Gamma Iota – University of Massachusetts - Amherst Children’s Hospital Colorado Foundation Funding for portable gaming systems to help develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, mental processing, and critical thinking. Nominated by Colorado Springs Alumnae Chapter Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters Funding for games to increase skill development, coordination and normalize the hospital experience. Nominated by Theta Eta- Old Dominion University Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters Funding for vinyl bouncer covers and infant bouncers to provide soothing during hospital stays. Nominated by Zeta Pi – Virginia Wesleyan University
34 the TRIANGLE | spring 2020
Franciscan Children’s Hospital and Rehabilitation Center Funding for items to remodel the sensory rooms for patients to have a sensory-friendly space in which to play. Nominated by Epsilon Chi – Northeastern University Geisinger Medical Center Funding for tools and toys to help patients of all abilities cope with the preoperative, operative, and postoperative environments. Nominated by Janell Weaver, Epsilon Eta George Marks Children’s House Funding for materials to document memories for the patients and their loved ones. Nominated by Epsilon Alpha – California State University East Bay Hennepin Health Care Funding for visual distraction items that can be used in the hydrotherapy rooms. Nominated by Zeta Eta – Winona State University James and Connie Maynard Children’s Hospital Funding for Xbox systems for the Pediatric Day Medical Unit and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit to provide children who are having extended chemotherapy infusions with diversion through play. Nominated by Gamma Xi – Barton College
Levine Children’s Hospital Funding for materials to assist with end-of-life song recording and creation, and materials for behavioral health patients. Nominated by Delta Pi – Winthrop University
Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital Funding for items to ensure the tiniest patients unique needs are being met for their growth and development. Nominated by Gamma Mu – Southeastern Louisiana University
Maple Grove Hospital Funding for a Touch2Play unit for children in the Emergency Department and play mats for each pediatric room in the Pediatric inpatient rooms. Nominated by Beta Pi – University of Wisconsin - Stout
Our Lady of the Lake Hospital Funding for Child Life Department to support the growing needs of patients due to the recent hospital expansion with a total of 4 playrooms. Nominated by Lauren Pontiff, Gamma Pi – Nicholls State University
Maricopa Integrated Health Systems/Maricopa Health Foundation Funding for items for sensory relaxation, distractions, and education. Nominated by Phoenix Alumnae Chapter Marshfield Children’s Hospital Funding for a variety of musical items and panels for the hospital’s “Backyard Patio”. Nominated by Gamma Lambda – University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire Medical University of South Carolina Children’s Hospital Funding for a variety of items to create opportunities in the newly expanded hospital for patients to engage in creative, expressive, messy, dramatic and medical play. Nominated by Zeta Chi – Coastal Carolina University Metro Health/University of Michigan Health Funding for iPads to be used as distraction during procedures and education for patients and families about upcoming procedures. Nominated by West Michigan Alumnae Chapter and Epsilon Gamma – Grand Valley State University
Prisma Health Children’s Hospital – Upstate Funding for a variety of toys and games to engage children’s senses and help them cope with lengthy procedures. Nominated by Epsilon Pi – Presbyterian University Seattle Children’s Hospital and Research Foundation Funding for scrapbook tools and sensory toys to assist with self-soothing and imaginative play. Nominated by Seattle Alumnae Chapter St. Francis Children’s Hospital Funding for items to provide normalization for extended stays and distraction from the stress of the hospital. Nominated by Alpha Iota – Northeastern State University St. Jude Midwest Affiliate Clinic Funding for two virtual systems that will allow the program to offer a diversion from diagnosis and help children cope with the diagnosis. Nominated by Epsilon Omicron – Illinois State University Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare Foundation Funding for a bereavement cart, inkless hand and footprint kits, and other various tools to assist with the bereavement program in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Nominated by Tallahassee Alumnae Chapter University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital Funding for Magic Leap One goggles for the play space to facilitate play interventions and distractions. Nominated by Twin Cities Alumnae Chapter
Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt Funding for a Touch2Play unit that will provide engagement and entertainment for children in the waiting area of the Pediatric Emergency Department. Nominated by Alpha Chi – Murray State University Nationwide Children’s Hospital Foundation Funding for Nurture Smart Crib Mobiles to provide play therapy for infant patients receiving medical treatment and care. Nominated by Central Ohio Interest Group
University of Virginia Children’s Hospital Funding for baby dolls for medical play to normalize the medical equipment and supplies for bereavement photography. Nominated by Delta Chi – University of Virginia Winchester Medical Center Funding for therapeutic and sensory toys to help children see past their illness and feel like a “normal child” during their stay. Nominated by Beta Delta - Shepherd University Wolfson Children’s Hospital Funding for items to revamp the teen room. Nominated by Northeast Florida Alumnae Chapter
the TRIANGLE | spring 2020 35
foundation
2019-2020 Collegiate Ambassadors The Collegiate Ambassador Program provides undergraduates an opportunity to serve our philanthropy and advocate for our mission. Throughout the academic year, they educated their chapters and peers about the foundation mission. They shared opportunities to engage through philanthropy and service. Additionally, they fundraised each semester to support essential leadership and educational programs.
This program is made possible by foundation volunteer and Ambassador Coordinator Joey Koenig, Theta Delta Chapter – as
she supports a future of empowered Tri Sigma philanthropists. Thank you to our five Collegiate Ambassadors for their passion and willingness to empower others through philanthropy.
Samantha Beck, Eta Xi
Hannah Douglas, Eta Rho
Erica Hagood, Theta Beta
Isabel Mason, Zeta Chi
Rebecca Purcell, Beta Xi
Triennial Excellence in Chapter Philanthropy
At the 2019 Convention, the foundation recognized Alpha Mu Chapter at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette for their exceptional leadership in chapter philanthropy.
The chapter continues to elevate their signature fundraisers
each semester, involving those beyond their university to
make a difference. Just as crucial to their success, they make
celebrating their philanthropy efforts a priority – recognizing the
36 the TRIANGLE | spring 2020
time and energy they all invest in impacting women, children and families across the country.
A foundation representative attended Alpha Mu’s annual
Chili Cook-off this past fall as they raised an impressive
$31,143. Thank you to our Alpha Mu sisters, local alumnae, and community supporters who make our mission possible!
the TRIANGLE | spring 2020 37
foundation
As you reflect on Tri Sigma’s history and the moments that matter this Founders Day, will you also celebrate our future and the experiences that support our vision of empowering women to change the world? Make your Founders Day gift on April 20!
38 the TRIANGLE | spring 2020
Empowering Leadership Board service is a significant commitment, and an outstanding professional opportunity. By serving on the Board of Directors, members contribute their knowledge and experience in various areas that strengthen the future of the Tri Sigma Foundation and Tri Sigma as a whole.
2019-2020 Board of Directors Chair
Bonnie Rainey, Alpha Sigma Dallas, TX
Vice Chair
Kaye Schendel, Gamma Phi West Salem, WI Treasurer
Camille Chasteen, Zeta Rho St. Paul, MN
Nancy McGowan, Kappa
Interested in Future Board Service?
Barrington, IL
These foundation leaders not only
Lori Rassati, Gamma Psi
time and talents, including monthly
contribute financially but give their
Cincinatti, OH
conference calls and committee
Mary Webster, Beta Kappa
interested in applying for board service
work for three-year terms. If you are
Meza, AZ
in the future, here are the types of skills
Ex-Officio Members
serve our philanthropy:
Secretary
National President
• Demonstrates leadership
Manassas, VA
Virginia Beach, VA
• Demonstrates professionalism
Board Members at Large
National Treasurer
• Willingness to ask for support
Erie, PA
• Commitment to responsibilities
Stephanie Everett, Epsilon Theta Atlanta, GA
JeanMarie Komyathy, Gamma Kappa
Veronica Atkins, Eta Omicron Astoria, OR
Natalie Averette, Gamma Beta
Ann Rutkowski, Epsilon Delta
you can continue to strengthen to best
• Thinks strategically
• Commitment to Tri Sigma
• Brings diverse perspective
the TRIANGLE | spring 2020 39
archives
By Liz Johns, Delta Omicron, National Archivist
Sigmas seizing the opportunity to volunteer: A brief history of Tri Sigma Volunteerism “Seize the chance, give all you can to anyone who needs.” - Florence Vickers, Iota, First Social Service Chair
Volunteerism has been an integral part of the Sigma Sigma
Sigma identity since its beginnings. To be a sister of Sigma
Sigma Sigma is to volunteer your time, your energy, your money, and most importantly, your love. Our volunteer efforts may look different today through fundraising events such as Rocking for Robbie, donating time to play therapy rooms, and handing out
water bottles at March of Dimes events. Still, the same intrinsic drive and desire to serve is the same as the women of our sorority’s past.
New members learn early on in their sorority experience
that volunteerism is one of the key components of being a Tri Sigma woman, and many of us take that spirit on well after college. Throughout our history, Tri Sigma has seen a long
line of dedicated volunteers help keep the sorority and their
communities strong and vibrant. Lucy Wright and other founders were members of the Y.W.C.A., volunteered for the Red Cross, and worked in their local communities. Not only did Lucy
Wright help create Tri Sigma, but she also participated in the establishment of a branch of the Y.W.C.A. in her hometown.
Tri Sigma began organizing service efforts as a national
organization just before the United States entered World
War I. Florence Vickers, Iota Chapter, was appointed as the
first national social service chairman in 1916 after graduating
with a master of Pedagogy from the Colorado State Teachers College—now the University of Northern Colorado—in 1915.
Florence had begun her service work with her local chapter, but her work was recognized at a national level when she served as a charter member and 1915 convention delegate for Iota
and began corresponding with Mabel Lee Walton. She focused
40 the TRIANGLE | fall 2019
the sorority’s first national service efforts on supporting the
war effort during World War I by coordinating chapters in selling
Liberty Bonds, war stamps, and adopting war orphans. Florence
unexpectedly passed away in 1922, and Bess Davis, Iota, continued the facilitation of social service efforts for the sorority for the next decade.
At the 1931 convention in Mackinac Island, MI, Tri Sigma
began the tradition of collecting pennies on Founders Day to
support social service projects. The first pennies endorsed the
founding of a library for the John Randolph School in Cumberland County, Virginia, near Alpha Chapter. The library opened in 1932, and Tri Sigma created a United States Museum at the library in
1947. Alpha Chapter took on most of the regular volunteer efforts at the library until the school closed. Today, the foundation still
collects birthday pennies, and our national volunteer program is
strong. But Tri Sigma women today still follow the same path as our founders, volunteering locally with collegiate and alumnae
chapters and in their communities. Florence chose this quote to
accompany her 1915 photo in her college yearbook, “The secret of success is pluck and constancy to purpose.” Over a hundred years later, this quote still rings true for volunteers—women who work hard and stay dedicated to the sorority and their communities, moving ever forward.
If you have a Tri Sigma volunteer story, photos, or
memorabilia to share, contact Liz Johns, National Archivist at archives@trisigma.org.
Alphas with John Randolph School students at a Christmas Party, 1946.
John Randolph High School, where Tri Sigma established a library and museum.
Those Without the Circle Poem by Florence Vickers, Iota Chapter, First Social Service Chair. Published in the Triangle, 1917.
Each of us some talent has; It is for us to find; And hospital, and home, and school We must carefully keep in mind. So, if perchance that you should find Your lot of earthly goods exceeds, Seize the chance, give all you can To anyone who needs. Bring sunshine everyday, and cheer O make the cloudy ways to shine; Now is the time, so wait no longer, To do the best for ones of thine. Blest be the hands that toil and aid The great world’s ceaseless need The hands that never are afraid To do a kindly deed.
42 the TRIANGLE | spring 2020
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. LAMBDA Mary Barnhart Trainer
ALPHA GAMMA Harriette Klenk Cronn
ALPHA PHI Juanita Basso Loesser Pez
NU Berlene Curtis Herrick
ALPHA DELTA Regina Maas Hildreth
ALPHA PSI Shirley Alexander Grubb
OMICRON Helen Krebs Maddox*
ALPHA EPSILON Roberta Robertson Thomas
BETA ETA Nell Allen Derckson
PI Edith McCready Mott Nadine Engler Nagle*
ALPHA IOTA Claudia Pat Thompson
BETA MU Diana Hornick Sarber* National President 1995-2001 National PH Conf. Del. 1986-1995
ALPHA MU Marie Langlinais Gaubert
SIGMA Linda Chatham Walthall PSI Juanita Bayless Parsons Esthel Meadows Pennington* ALPHA ALPHA Jane Goode Carpenter
DELTA ALPHA Juanita Bayless Parsons
ALPHA NU Teresa Louise Gerstner Lynne Eleveld Trailov
DELTA PI Kim Wood Reed
ALPHA TAU Mildred P. Bailey
THETA EPSILON Brooke Ashley Zorne
I.
F.
G.
H.
J.
A.
A. 45th National Convention Diamond Badge, #0122 SS $369 10K $486 14K $557 B. Crown Pearl Double Letter Chapter Guard, #J0600 GP $68 SS $81 10K $128 C. Scholarship Pearl Dangle, #0041 GP/SP $11 | D. President Dangle, #1A GP $11 SS $18 10K $32 E. Chapter Treasurer Dangle, #0004 GP $11 SS $18 10K $32 | F. Addy Ring, #ADDY SP/GP $35 G. Imperial Oval Onyx Ring with Pearls, #790P SS $160 10K $450 14K $630
B.
H. Chapter President’s Ring, #0452P SS $128 10K $325 14K $435 | I. Lux Bracelet, #BG808 $50 J. Rory Necklace, 26”, #RORY GP $39
C. E. D.
Visit hjgreek.com to see the complete collection of dangles and accessories.
* Indicates Golden Violet
the TRIANGLE | spring 2020 43
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