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Let’s Talk E
Laura Ward Sweet Alpha Sigma National President
Letter from the
President
mily Lewis Lee is a wonderful Tri Sigma Sister who served on Council when I was a collegiate chapter president. Almost weekly, we would get a note from Emily in which she educated, encouraged and modeled the Tri Sigma legacy of faith, hope and love. Last week I received a letter from Emily. She wrote, “This morning in my daily devotion reading was the thought ‘We need rituals. In a sense they help us contain the uncontainable. Rituals can help us manage the unimaginable.’ Immediately, I thought of our Sigma rituals and their meaning in our lives.” Executive Council has spent a lot of time lately discussing Tri Sigma and what it is we want our members, parents, university administrators, potential members and the general public to know about us. What words come to mind when you think Tri Sigma? If you were to create our Web page, how would you encapsulate the Tri Sigma experience? Friendship? Lots of us belong to associations that have friendship. What sets us apart? Is it the values stated our Ritual? Do we talk enough about our ritual? Rituals remind of us of who we are and our relationship to our faith, family, friends and Tri Sigma Sisters. Our Tri Sigma Ritual is what makes us a Sorority and committed Sisters to one another. We bring our newest members into the bonds of Sisterhood with the Arc degree; those bonds become lifelong with the Triangle degree. The Circle Degree greets collegiate Sisters to Alumnae Life. Our rituals are the thread that binds more than 95,000 members. Take some time this month to think about Ritual. What is it? What does it mean to you? How does it make us better women? Does it help us through hard times? Does it make us Sisters? Are we truly who we say we are? Even better, I encourage you to engage a Sister in one of these conversations about Ritual and its meaning in Tri Sigma.
Yours,
Laura
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Triangle
the
Vol. 08 No. 1
Telling the stories of Tri Sigma’s Heart
On the Cover:
MISSION STATEMENT
Dee Lovato McBurney, Iota, pictured on cover; Andrea Cates Miller, Epsilon Omicron; and Cindy Harms, Alpha Epsilon, give remarkable accounts of surviving cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Sigma Sigma Sigma promotes a perpetual bond of friendship, develops strong womanly character, and inspires high standards of ethical conduct. Editor Barbara Victoria Colvert Alumnae Editor Jenell Hironimus, Beta Xi Collegiate Editor Jackie Wise, Alpha Chi Feature Editor Hillary Ashton, Zeta Beta Copy Editors Peggy Gamble, Alpha Sigma Katie Wadington, Epsilon Xi Executive Director Marcia Cutter, Beta Gamma Sigma Sigma Sigma 225 North Muhlenberg Street Woodstock, VA 22664-1424 p 540.459.4212 f 540.459.2361 E-mail: sigma@trisigma.org Executive Council 2007– 2010 National President Laura Ward Sweet, Alpha Sigma National Treasurer Barbara Stoe Stone, Beta Tau Alumnae Vice President Mandy Meehan Chocheles, Gamma Eta Collegiate Vice President Emily Eure Ellis, Gamma Beta Membership Development Vice President Bethany A. Deines, Beta Kappa Publications Vice President Allison Swick-Duttine, Psi National Panhellenic Conference Delegate Reatha Cole Cox, Alpha Zeta
www.sigmasigmasigma.org Changes of names and addresses and death notices should be sent to National Headquarters, 225 North Muhlenberg Street, Woodstock, VA 22664-1424. Postmaster: Please send notices of undeliverable copies on Form 3579 to Sigma Sigma Sigma, 225 North Muhlenberg Street, Woodstock, VA 22664-1424.
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contents Cancer Survivors
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Discrimination Has No Place
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Ever Forward with… Empowered Women
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Our Leadership
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Our Sisters
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Our Collegians
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Our Alumnae
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Sigma Heart
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Omega Chapter
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The Triangle of Sigma Sigma Sigma is published three 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
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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 College Fraternity Editors Association. © 2007 Sigma Sigma Sigma
“Tri Sigma is a values-based organization, 1 and members should read articles in the spirit in which they are intended.”
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Dee Lovato McBurney, Iota, wears a pink cowboy hat her daughter gave her as she walks in the Wyoming Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure.
SIGMA WOMEN
WE ARE SURVIVORS By Hillary Ashton, Feature Editor
M. Dolores (Dee) Lovato McBurney, Iota, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2000 and quickly had surgery to remove a lump. She was surrounded by family and friends in her journey, including her husband Chad, son Shane and daughters Kimberly and Shannon. “I could not have gotten through it without them,” she says. McBurney also had her Sisters supporting her, in particular two women from her collegiate chapter; Mary Eleanor Thompson McCarty, Iota and Omega, and Marge Gray Collier, Iota. McBurney and McCarty not only were confidants, they were allies since they were battling cancer at the same time. “We were there for each other the whole time,” says McBurney. Not only did they share laughter and tears, they also shared wigs while going through chemotherapy. Sadly, this past year McCarty entered Omega chapter.
Andrea Cates Miller, Epsilon Omicron, was only 27 when she was diagnosed with gastric cancer. “Everything was a fluke.” Two years earlier, in May 2003, she had found out she was missing a kidney. Though her kidney function was normal, she wanted to have a CT scan before deciding to have children. “I was planning an October 2003 wedding, so I was in no rush to have this CT scan done, nor was I planning on having kids right away,” says Miller. When she had the CT scan 17 months later, her doctor saw an abnormality near the stomach. “He was concerned because there was something there that shouldn't be, yet not that concerned, because I was overall in good health.” In December 2004, following a biopsy, she was diagnosed with gastric cancer. Just four days later a PET scan showed the cancer had spread to several lymph nodes; she also had four tumors in the liver. “What baffled everyone was that this type of cancer was most common in
Andrea Cates Miller, Epsilon Omicron, with her husband, Chri
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Europe and Asia and also in older men. I was the wrong age, sex and ethnicity!” A week later she started intravenous chemotherapy. Her doctor also put her on a pill form of chemotherapy that had yet to receive FDA approval for the treatment of gastric cancer. By April 2005 the chemotherapy had reduced the size of the lesion (which is what they were calling it at that point) by about 50 percent, and she was ready for a break from chemotherapy. She continued the oral form and eventually made it 18 months taking just the pills. In October 2006, the tumors had disappeared and the lesion was still stable in size, however the pills were not making the cancer go away. In November 2006 she underwent a seven and one-half hour surgery that involved making two large incisions and removing one-third of her stomach, several lymph nodes and the majority of her esophagus. She spent 13 days in the hospital following the surgery, most of that time with a feeding tube. Her family surrounded her, and her husband, Chris, and her mother took turns sitting at her bedside. “I couldn’t have asked for a better person to be by my side than my husband." After five months of recovery, which involved five and one-half weeks of radiation, a scan taken in April 2007 found no evidence of cancer. She will now be tested several times a year and says she is optimistic her results will remain the same. “I really defied the odds. There were people who didn’t expect me to see the age of 28, and I just turned 30 in July,” says Miller. “Now, I look forward to the five-year cancer-free mark, which will mean I've been cured!” For Miller her trust in her doctors helped her to make some tough decisions. However, for some women finding out what is wrong and getting the correct diagnosis is a long journey, and they have to become advocates for their own health.
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In 2001, Cindy Heimann Harms, Alpha Epsilon, woke up to find bluishpurple lumps had appeared on her chest overnight. “It wasn’t painful, it just looked scary.” She went to her doctor who referred her to a dermatologist. She was told it was not cancer, given a cortisone shot, and advised to keep an eye on it. Two years later the lumps appeared again. “My doctor didn’t think it was serious, but I had a biopsy and I found out it was cancer,” says Harms. In August 2003, at the age of 33, she was diagnosed with a
“He was by my side every step of the way during my battle with cancer, and I couldn’t have gotten through it without him,” she says. “He was wonderful support for me.” She also had two Sisters from her chapter who really helped her through the battle. “Having that support was really nice,” she notes. Harms has now been in remission for over four years. __________________________
For many women, being a cancer survivor changes their outlook on life. “I always look forward to birthdays now because it’s one more year I’m alive. For a while it was just another day; now each birthday is a celebration,” says Miller. Both Miller and Harms have become more active in Tri Sigma since they were diagnosed. Harms became President of the San Francisco Alumnae Chapter, and Miller is active in the Greater St. Louis Alumnae Chapter and is a volunteer for the Housing Corporation for Epsilon Omicron. “The support of my Sisters has been great,” says Miller. “They were always there for me, offering some kind of support, and always with encouraging words, even though they were all four to five hours away.” Like many women cancer survivors, McCarty became more involved in trying to help fight cancer through her area Susan Cindy Harms, Alpha Epsilon, with her husband, William, at the Seattle Komen Race for G. Komen Race for the the Cure in May 2007. Cure. She had participated in the Race rare form of skin cancer called for years, but after her she was dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans or DFSP. diagnosed she became much more According to the American Cancer involved through fundraising. Society, DFSP is a slow-growing cancer of “I wish we would eradicate cancer,” fibrous tissue, which usually begins as a said McCarty. “I thought if I could help small lump beneath the skin. Harms monetarily, that’s what I would do.” underwent surgery to have the lumps Not only did McCarty make it her removed. Recovery was painful because mission to raise money for the race, for she could not be given any longterm three years she was the top fundraiser for drugs. Harms fought hard with her the Wyoming Race for the Cure. husband, William, helping her throughout her recovery.
“It’s something that I really wanted to do so that nobody else would have to go though what I did.” In 2006, she decided to raise $1,000 for each of the five years she had been cancer-free. “I spent many hours contacting family and friends, via e-mail, phone and letters,” she said. Her hard work paid off. She raised more than $6,300 and was once again the top fundraiser. “I felt such great satisfaction at having accomplished my goal and knew that the money would go for a good cause,” McCarty said. She has also traveled to Fort Worth, TX, and Salt Lake City, UT, to participate in the Race for the Cure with each of her daughters and their families. The reality is that many women reading this article will one day face cancer themselves and become cancer survivors. As every survivor story differs, so does their advice to other women fighting cancer. What Harms says she learned is the same advice she would give other women. “Go with your gut instinct. Stand up for yourself and for your health. You know best what’s going on with your body.” She says finding the right doctor can be difficult, so it is important for women to get referrals. Once the right doctors for you have been found, make sure you have an open and honest conversation with them. Miller says, “Listen to what they have to say because they do know what is best. I was fortunate to have some of the very best doctors on my side.” “Stay off the Internet; it will scare you!” says Miller. “I was researching the Internet a bit, and it was frightening! The reports and statistics may not always reflect your case.” McBurney’s advice: “Do a monthly selfexam, go to your doctor and have a mammogram.” If breast cancer is detected early enough a mastectomy may not be necessary. The American Cancer Society advises women to start doing breast self exams beginning in their 20s. All three of the survivors say one of the most important things for women to do is to surround themselves with friends and family. Make sure you have a support group or close friends to help you through and surround yourself with positive people. A positive attitude can be one of the best weapons in a woman’s battle to fight cancer.
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Early Detection for Women Early detection – finding a cancer early before it spreads — gives you the best chance in fighting cancer. The American Cancer Society gives the following guidelines for early detection for the most common cancers facing women.
Breast Cancer • Women should have yearly mammograms, starting at age 40 and continuing for as long as they are in good health. • A clinical breast exam should be part or a periodic health exam, preferably at least every three years for women in their 20s and 30s, and every year for women 40 and older. • Women should report any breast change to their doctors without delay. Breast self exam is an option for women starting in their 20s. • Women at increased risk (family history, genetic tendency, past breast cancer, etc.) should talk with their doctors about the benefits and limitations of starting screening earlier or having additional tests like breast ultrasound or MRI.
Colon Cancer The American Cancer Society recommends one of these five testing options for all people beginning at age 50. • Yearly fecal occult blood test (FOBT) • Flexible sigmoidoscopy every five years • Yearly FOBT and flexible sigmoidoscopy every five years (preferred over either of the first two alone) • Double contrast barium enema every five years • Colonoscopy every 10 years
Endometrial Cancer This is cancer of the lining of the uterus and occurs most often in women over age 50. • Watch for signs and symptoms like unusual spotting or bleeding not related to menstrual periods and report these to your doctor. • The American Cancer Society recommends yearly testing with endometrial biopsy being offered by age 35 to women who have or are likely to have hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer (HNPCC).
Ovarian Cancer • See a doctor promptly if you have persistent symptoms of swelling of the abdomen, digestive problems (including gas, loss of appetite, and bloating), abdominal pain, feeling like you need to urinate all the time, pelvic pain, back pain, or leg pain.
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• A pelvic exam should be part of a woman’s regular health exam.
Skin Cancer • Avoid being out in the midday sun for long period of time. • Wear hats with brims, long-sleeved shirts, and sunglasses. • Use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher on all exposed parts of the skin. • For children: protect their skin and don’t let them get sunburned. • Look at your skin regularly and have a skin exam during your regular health check-ups.
Cancer Fighting Resources For more information on fighting cancer and how to get involved go to either the Susan G. Komen www.komen.org or American Cancer Society www.cancer.org Web sites. Free resources are available on both sites, including materials on how to do a breast self exam and how to get involved in the Susan B. Komen Race for the Cure and the American Cancer Society Relay for Life.
Cervical Cancer • All women should begin cervical cancer testing about three years after they begin having vaginal intercourse, but no later than age 21. Testing should be done every year with the regular Pap test or every two years using the newer liquid-based Pap test. • Beginning at age 30, women who have had three normal Pap test results in a row may get tested every two to three years with either type of Pap test. But some doctors may suggest that testing be done more often if a woman has certain conditions such as HIV or a weak immune system. • Women over 30 may also get tested every three years with either type of Pap test, plus the new HPV DNA test. • Women 70 years of age or older who have had three or more normal Pap tests in a row and no abnormal Pap test results in the last 10 years may choose to stop having cervical cancer testing. • Testing after a total hysterectomy (removal of the uterus and cervix) is not necessary unless the surgery was done as a treatment for cervical cancer or precancer.
Lung Cancer • Smoking is the cause for more than 80 percent of all lung cancers. • Lung cancer is one of the few cancers that can be prevented. If you are a smoker, ask your doctor or nurse to help you quit. If you do not smoke, don’t start. If your friends and loved ones are smokers, help them quit. For help quitting, call 1-800-ACS-2345.
All of the above guidelines are from the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Facts for Women.
Want to wear your support? Check out www.save2ndbase.com. Breast Cancer is not funny, but the founders of this organization have found a creative way to fight cancer with humor. They call in “Pink with a Wink.”
The cancers that most frequently affect women are breast, colon, endometrial, ovarian, skin, cervical, and lung. Knowing about these diseases and what you can do can save your life. — American Cancer Society
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Discrimination Discrimination Has Has No No Place Place in in Tri Tri Sigma Sigma By Kellie Parker, Alpha Beta
On the day that San Francisco, my hometown, held its 2007 Pride Parade — in a month when gay pride is celebrated around the nation and the world — Sigma Sigma Sigma took an official stance regarding discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. At our 41st National Convention in Nashville, TN, Tri Sigma women from around the country voted to add sexual orientation to the nondiscrimination clause of Tri Sigma's national bylaws. I used to think that I was the only lesbian Sigma. I used to think I was the only lesbian sorority woman on the whole planet. I couldn't have been more wrong. However, many sorority women experience this every day. Although 24 of the 26 NPC sororities have women who have listed themselves in Lambda 10's “Who's Out” list, Tri Sigma is only the fourth NPC group to add sexual orientation to its nondiscrimination clause. “I am very proud to be part a group where we are all accepted and appreciated for what we bring to Tri Sigma. I can’t imagine being in a sorority that silently discriminates against many of their members,” said Rebecca Nanzer, Epsilon Omicron, who voted at Convention to add sexual orientation to the nondiscrimination clause. I became an active volunteer for Tri Sigma three years ago, just after the 2004 National Convention in Arizona. In my review of our National Bylaws, I noticed that the non-discrimination policy did not include sexual orientation. I never wanted a Sister to feel alone like I had, and I knew I had to get this change made. Throughout the next few years, I found some allies who wanted to add sexual orientation to our National Bylaws. We wrote the resolution and submitted it to the Convention Resolution Committee. It was accepted, and it was added to the list of resolutions to be voted on by the Convention body. I was worried about what it meant for my own Sisterhood if the resolution didn't pass. I had prepared an emotional speech to give on the Convention floor during discussion of this resolution. Ten years ago, I was scared to tell even one Sister that I was questioning my sexuality.
But on the day this resolution was voted on at Convention, I was prepared to tell more than 700 of my Sisters that I was a lesbian. I did not need to do that. The resolution passed unanimously. I silently cried. For the past three years I had heard us talk about how we are a cuttingedge and progressive organization. That day, I really believed it. I felt it in the core of my being. And I was not the only one. Many of my Sisters gave their hugs and words of support when the resolution passed. I called my partner, who was initiated as an alumna two years ago, to celebrate the news. Since Convention, I have talked to many Sisters about why they voted for this resolution. Some, like TC Krajnak, Epsilon Kappa, wanted to extend the Sisterhood opportunity to everyone. “Sisterhood to me is about a special bond between women, where prejudice doesn't enter into the relationship,” Krajnak said. “I felt we should offer all women the opportunity to experience what makes Tri Sigma so special.” The nondiscrimination clause states, in part, that membership in each chapter shall be determined by performance, educational achievement, and criteria related to the goals and purposes of the Sorority. The Bylaw also states that judgments shall not be made based upon other factors such as individual race, color, religion, national origin, age, or disability. The resolution added “sexual orientation” to this list, deeming it as also unrelated to the goals and purposes of the Sorority. This addition prohibits the Sorority from using sexual orientation as a factor to determine membership. It does not require that chapters offer membership to all bisexual and lesbian women. Membership in Tri Sigma is based on our standards of membership; this addition to the nondiscrimination clause prohibits a chapter from declining membership to a woman who fits the standards of membership, but has a different sexual orientation. The addition of sexual orientation to the nondiscrimination clause also makes many of our bisexual and lesbian Sisters feel more comfortable in discussing their sexual orientation with their Sisters.
Before this addition was made, many Sisters were worried about the fate of their friendships and membership in Tri Sigma if they were discovered to be bisexual or lesbian. This addition is a victory for equality among our current Sisterhood, and for future Sisters. “Tri Sigma has always been the best representation for our motto — Ever Forward.”, said Madeline Kristoff, Delta Chi. “Tri Sigma is forward thinking; whether it is for women leaders, opportunities for women, or by recruiting society's best women. Once again, Tri Sigma will show the rest of the country how forward-thinking our members are toward the most current social issues,” Kristoff said. Like her, and the other delegates that I spoke with, I hope that Tri Sigma has set an example that other NPC groups will follow. Additions like this are not only about accepting our future Sisters, they are about embracing and respecting the women who are already our Sisters and all women. I am proud to know many lesbian and bisexual women in Tri Sigma, and every one of them works tirelessly to contribute great things to our sisterhood, regardless of their sexual orientation. Editor’s Note: For information or support, visit www.lambda10.org
New Resolution RESOLVED, That Article VII, COLLEGIATE CHAPTERS, B – RECRUITMENT, Section 2, be amended to add "sexual orientation." Section then to read: "Judgments shall not be made based upon other factors such as individual race, color, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age or disability;" and FURTHER RESOLVED, That the RESOLVED clause of the Sigma Sigma Sigma Position Statement on Non-Discrimination be amended to refer to "sexual orientation" so that it then reads: "RESOLVED, Membership in each chapter shall be determined by performance, educational achievement and criteria related to the goals and purposes of the Sorority. Judgments shall not be made based upon other factors such as individual race, color, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age or disability."
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Giving Back, and Then Some By Sherri Varsek Ballard, Alpha Nu
Connie Staub Brand, Beta Epsilon, has
In 2005 Connie was recognized by the never forgotten that those who receive Orlando Art Museum as Volunteer of the much must give much. Her drive in Decade. Through Connie’s diligent tracking volunteerism exemplifies that of volunteer service hours, the Museum basic concept. realized that As a local volunteer hours of recipient of the the more than 650 Jefferson Award volunteers managed from the American by Connie were Institute for Public worth $1.3 million. Service, Brand has As members of spent the last 15 the Orlando Opera years volunteering Guild, Brand and in the Orlando, FL, her husband have area. The Jefferson opened their home Award is similar to for the designer the Nobel Prize for showcase public and fundraiser. For this community service. event she had to From the Orlando coordinate the Museum of Art to efforts of 20 the Orlando Opera different designers. Guild, this After a successful Tri Sigma has event, the Brands given much! plan to offer their Roy and Connie Staub Brand After graduating home to other from Western Illinois University, Brand charities for similar events. She looks moved more than 25 times in 30 years. forward to hosting visiting opera stars in From her first retail job with Famous Barr, her “diva bedroom” during the upcoming she worked her way into becoming a opera season. buyer. As a buyer of women’s clothing for Brand’s talent for coordinating Jefferson Department Store, she managed volunteers has continued to spread to an annual budget of $15 million. She other volunteer-driven organizations in the jokes that she always tells her husband Orlando area. When she approached the that no matter how much she spends on Volunteer Coordinator for the Cornell Fine clothes, he needs to remember it is no Arts Museum in an effort to network where near as much as she spent before. ideas, a Volunteer Network was born. Four When Brand finally settled in Orlando, and a half years later the network has she began volunteering for the Orlando grown to include 30 different Museum of Art. In college she minored in organizations. They meet to share ideas on art and decided to marry this interest with fund raising and volunteerism and work her retail experience. Initially she worked in together whether they need extra helping the retail shop for the museum. What she hands for a large event or to coordinate regards as a combination of luck and dates so events do not conflict. serendipity led Brand to serve as the Although Brand hasn’t found time to Volunteer Council Chairperson where she be an active member of an alumnae worked as the liaison between the chapter, she has worked hard keeping her volunteers and the museum. She helped Beta Epsilon Sisters in touch with one develop a volunteer recognition program another. For the past decade she has and learned that even the smallest reward published “SIS,” a newsletter for Beta motivates volunteers to give more. Epsilon alumnae from the 1960s to the
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1970s. With 150 members she has enjoyed the journey with her Sisters as they’ve traveled through the different stages of life together. And she looks forward to hosting them at her home in the upcoming year. With her dedication and energy drive, you would be surprised to learn Connie Brand battles a chronic disease called Sjogren's Syndrome. As an autoimmune disease, it is similar to having rheumatoid arthritis throughout your body. More people have Sjogren's than have breast cancer or Alzheimer’s. The symptoms include dry eyes, dry mouth, dry nose, fatigue, and extreme achiness. “I am a big believer that EVERYONE should volunteer,” Brand states. “That is why I take the time to do what I do. It is important that we leave the world a better place. Anyway I receive a lot more that I give.”
With Sally Field, the Sky Is the Limit! By Sherri Varsek Ballard, Alpha Nu
A common theme for this section of The Triangle has been how Tri Sigma helped shape us into empowered women. Sally Field, Alpha Psi, and Chapter Advisor to Gamma Phi, is using her talents to shape the empowered women of the future. Drawing upon her professional talents as a human resources consultant specializing in conflict resolution and generational studies, Sally Field has been guiding the women of Gamma Phi for more than a decade. Anyone who has been exposed to the Collegiate Department knows that conflict resolution is a part of life. Generational studies illustrate some interesting contrasts.
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and Chapter Advisor for Delta Delta, has used the confidence and skills she gained as a Tri Sigma in developing her career as a career advisor for Duke University. She says, “I can take on any project and lead a team toward any goal while maneuvering the political game of the work Force.” In fact, Nicholas has mastered these skills enough that in July of this year she was published as co-author of a textbook for DeVry University. In the university-level textbook, “Paths in Working Life: Chartering Your 21st Century Career,”
“There are such vast differences in the needs between the generations,” explains Field. “Since the Millennials, who were born between 1980 and 2000, are being hired by and work for the Baby Boomers who were born between 1946 and 1964, employers are realizing that generational differences can cause workplace stress.” Field is helped in her work as an advisor by remembering that today’s college women have different needs than she had in college. She teaches the women of Gamma Phi how to manage the differences they will encounter and helps to equip them with skills to be competitive in the work force after graduation. Ten years ago when Field founded Sky’s the Limit Coaching, she offered companies services like management coaching and a variety of adult training. She was fortunate to land accounts with Northwest Airlines, Nash Finch and Polaris. Today her Web site boasts more
Nicholas authored chapter eight, “Launching the Job Search,” and chapter nine, ”Navigating the Interview.” The textbook is part of the required curriculum for DeVry students. According to Nicholas, while the target audience is undergraduate students, the book could be used by anyone wanting to do a career search. The material could even assist midlevel professionals already in the workforce. After graduation in 2002, Nicholas became a career advisor for DeVry in California. When she was promoted to a director’s position in career services, she moved with her husband to Washington, D.C. They eventually settled in Raleigh/Durham, NC, where she works for Duke University as a career advisor for the Masters of Engineering Management Program. She is also an adjunct professor for DeVry. Although in the past five years she has moved three times and had two children, Nicholas still finds time to serve her Sisters in Tri Sigma. An active member of the Triangle Area Chapel Hill Alumnae Chapter, she is also Chapter Advisor for
than 50 diverse clients, from Famous Dave’s to UPS to Weyerhaeuser. She is an adjunct faculty member at University of Wisconsin – River Falls, Century College, and Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College. Field admits that the challenges of sole proprietorship can be difficult. Acting as secretary, accountant, travel agent, and development and presentation teams can be overwhelming. The rewards can be great as well. She admits, “It is nice to work in my jammies until noon, then get up to take a shower.” Field reminds us that the bonds we create with our Sisters can be a professional asset as well. Networking is important to the success of her business; 90 percent of her business has been generated from referrals. In addition to running her own business and supporting the women of Gamma Phi, Sally Field sponsors two kennels in Cozumel, Mexico, with her
By Sherri Varsek Ballard, Alpha Nu
Delta Delta. She is joined on the Alumnae Advisory Board for Delta Delta by Alison Nicholas. Alison was her Sister at Epsilon Alpha. What advice can Kirsten Nicholas offer our collegiate Sisters entering the work force? • First, give yourself the gift of time. You need to plan ahead and start early. Do not expect to instantly find a job. It could take a hundred resumé submissions before securing one interview.
Women
Kirsten Bilteau Nicholas, Epsilon Alpha,
Empowered
Preparing Students for the Work Force
• Second, practice your interview skills. You cannot walk into a job interview unprepared. You should take advantage of your university’s career resources. It helps to participate in mock interviews by talking to anyone who will listen to you. • Third, be sure to tailor your resumé to your skills and career objectives. Make sure to utilize task and accomplishment statements going beyond “President of Sigma Sigma Sigma.” When you are finished, have the resumé professionally proofread!
husband, Tim Higgins. Since their honeymoon, they have visited Cozumel at least once a year for the past 13 years. Tim will return there soon to bring back the latest addition to their family: a second dog, which will be their fifth rescue pet. Field also serves as a confirmation mentor for her church. When dealing with people, Field reminds us, “Everyone brings a great gift to the party. We just have to decide whose gift to open when.”
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Undergraduate Interfraternity Institute (UIFI): Changing the Lives of Our Members By Beth Fisher, Zeta Rho, Extension Director
“This was really a week of a lifetime,” stated Celinda Miranda, Zeta Epsilon, wrote in an e-mail talking about her experiences at the Undergraduate Interfraternity Institute (UIFI). Meghan Bredell, Eta Xi, echoed the sentiment. “I honestly don’t even know where to begin to describe it!” she said. This is the impact that many participants feel as they return home from UIFI, and what an impact it has had on our members over the years. During the summer of 2007, the Sigma Sigma Sigma Foundation continued the tradition of supporting women for this program by offering five UIFI scholarships to our undergraduate members. A total of seven collegiate women attended as participants, and four alumnae served as smallgroup facilitators during the 10 sessions sponsored by the North American Interfraternity Conference (NIC). UIFI is a values-based journey that offers participants the opportunity to
“It teaches attendees as much about fraternity and sorority leadership as it does about personal values and leadership. Too often we continue through our daily routine. UIFI is a chance to stop and reflect upon our fraternity/sorority experience,” said Miller, who serves as the Assistant Dean of Students for Fraternity and Sorority Affairs at explore, define, and enhance their leadership skills, personal awareness, commitment to their fraternities and
Cornell University. The institute is held over five days during the summer at a fraternity/sorority chapter house at Indiana University and at University of California–Los Angeles. UIFI is interactive, fun, challenging, and intentional. During sessions participants experience hands-on interaction, experiential activities, Xi discussion time, and personal reflection time. Considerable focus is given to the positive aspects of fraternities and sororities in addition to important discussions about issues that threaten the future of fraternity and sorority life on college campuses.
UIFI completely exceeded my expectations. I truly took a lot from this experience, and I am so glad I had this opportunity. I’m really excited to see what positive directions we can take as a chapter and community, and what leadership role I will have later on in my chapter. — Meghan Bredell, Eta
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sororities, and to grow to expect values-based action from themselves and those they lead. UIFI is an “experience that a participant will never forget,” said Kara Miller, Epsilon Delta, and a National Officer.
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opportunity to attend UIFI, I would have missed out on so much important information and so many relationships that have impacted my life for the better.” UIFI is a once in a lifetime experience. Celinda Miranda said it best. “UIFI really help[s] our Sisters become better, stronger and welleducated women — and I’ve always believed that is exactly what our Founders had in mind for this organization. When a Tri Sigma feels that she has gained any or all of those things, she will in turn do her part to help another do the same, helping our national Sisterhood grow and succeed.” Sigma Sigma Sigma Foundation UIFI scholarships were awarded to: • Meghan Bredell, Eta Xi • Julie Goodison, Zeta Rho • Lea Iverson, Zeta Eta • Jessica Malcolm, Epsilon Kappa • Celinda Miranda, Zeta Epsilon • Jamie Pence, Alpha Psi Tri Sigma attending UIFI through support of her university:
Campus professionals and Tri Sigma alumnae serving as small group facilitators for 2007: • Chini Camargo, Zeta Epsilon, Florida International University • Beth Fisher, Zeta Rho, Kutztown University of Pennsylvania • Mary Kate Lobough, Alpha Psi, Eastern Illinois University
Leadership
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UIFI pushes participants to talk about how fraternity and sorority leaders live their ritual. Tri Sigma women who attended this year were challenged on how they live the values of faith, hope, and love on a daily basis. “UIFI made me re-evaluate the values and morals that our eight Founders had in mind when creating Tri Sigma,” said Allyssa Castiglione, Alpha Upsilon. “Winning the Ritual and Values Programming Award at Convention has reinforced the importance of living our Ritual daily, and attending UIFI has motivated me to instill these values within our current Sisters and potential new members.” Miranda was affected by “the idea of living my Ritual and values every day.” In Tri Sigma, “We’ve been given a set of standards to live by and to guide our lives with, and we should be proud to strive to make our Rituals an everyday ritual,” she said. Many of the women who attended UIFI this year and in years past can truly understand how programs like this help change the lives of our members. Mary Kate Lobough, Alpha Psi, a campus professional at Eastern Illinois University, attended UIFI as a collegiate member and served as a facilitator this year. She said, “Without the
• Kara Miller, Epsilon Delta, Cornell University So what impact can you have in helping our collegiate women share in the UIFI experience? While the Sigma Sigma Sigma Foundation is generous to offer scholarships in support of this program and women serving as campus leaders are also supported by their campus and local Panhellenic Councils, many chapters would love to send more women to share in this lifechanging experience. If you are interested in supporting the attendance of Tri Sigma women at UIFI, please contact the Sigma Sigma Sigma Foundation at 540.459.4212 or e-mail: foundation@trisigma.org For more information on the Undergraduate Interfraternity Institute, visit: www.nicindy.org
• Allyssa Castiglione, Alpha Upsilon
Association of Fraternity Advisors The following Tri Sigmas are holding volunteer positions with the Association of Fraternity Advisors for 2008:
Kelly Jo Karnes, Pi .....Executive Vice President and Coalition Assessment Project Team Campus Visit Member Kara Miller, Epsilon Delta ...................................................................................2009 Annual Meeting Chair Kathleen Gillan, Alpha Zeta .................................................................Virtual Seminars Committee member Beth Fisher, Zeta Rho ...............................................................Awards and Recognition Committee member Allison Swick-Duttine, Psi ..............................National Hazing Symposium/National Hazing Prevention Week Liaison and Coalition Assessment Project Team Campus Visit Member
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By Inez Fridley, Gamma Beta, Chairman, Walton House Board
It was wonderful to share Walton House improvements, pictures, and complete information about the Sisterhood Walk and other projects at Convention. Our Board has been working diligently to plan for needed work at Walton House and to take our National Headquarters “Ever Forward” as our Sorority continues to sail on. Convention was just the place to share the good news, and we appreciated the opportunity to present a status report to the entire Convention body. The Walton House Board was also very proud of WHB Treasurer, Peggy Gamble’s recognition as 2006-2007 Steadfast Alumnae Citation winner. Peggy has been key to our success at Walton House as she tracks income and expenses and has transformed our budget into a userfriendly document that is easy for all board members to understand. Throughout the summer months the house received a much-needed total facelift outside. All exterior trim was repaired, scraped, sanded and completely repainted. Window repairs were made in anticipation of installing all-new, white, storm windows on the front façade and sides of the house. Any of you who have had old silver aluminum storm windows know how much they detract from the
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look of a home, and Walton House is no exception! We hope the new storm windows will be installed by December and we can get a truly wonderful holiday portrait of Walton House in its new finery. Also under way is the next installation of the Sisterhood Walk. At last count, 52 newly inscribed bricks will be added to the walk. There are still plenty of bricks to purchase, so plan ahead and order yours before the Walk is filled up! To add to the exterior appearance, the Board has been working with a local nursery to begin installing the Friendship Garden during the fall planting season. When complete this bare spot on the side lawn will bloom next spring with Forest Pansy redbud, Kousa dogwoods, Miss Kim lilacs, cherry laurel, sweetshrub, Annabelle hydrangeas, daylilies, hostas and many other plants. We are grateful to Sally Hughes, sister of National President Laura Sweet, for donating her skills and time to design a total landscape plan for Walton House. She has been a tremendous resource. We are happy to report that we have had positive responses to our Wish List. The Indianapolis Suburban Alumnae Chapter stepped up to provide sets of twin bed sheets and pillows. The Houston Alumnae Chapter has signed on to
collect funding for the ceiling fans and lights for Iota Room and the Executive Director’s office. The Oklahoma City Alumnae Chapter is supplying the electric alarm clocks for bedrooms throughout the house, and the past Leadership Consultants have committed to raise the money for a dishwasher in the kitchen. Way to go Tri Sigmas! Plenty of items are still on the list for this year. Take a look at the Wish List 2007 published in the Fall issue of The Triangle or on the Web site to see which project your Chapter might adopt. Hopefully by the time you are reading this, you can also go to the Web site for a virtual tour of Walton House. Walton House Board member Pam Hathaway, Gamma Beta, is working on this project. Chapters will be able to actually “visit” our National Headquarters to see the improvements being made and to tour the home. The Board has agreed to address during the coming year a total kitchen upgrade, bathroom repairs on the third and second floors, repair or replacement of failing parts of the gutter system, roof repairs and a complete roof painting. In addition, we have put aside a planning reserve for a much-needed renovation to existing office space.
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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 910 THE ESSENTIAL By Christina Smithhisler, Iota Alpha
Who are we as Tri Sigmas?
What is our common bond? We all learn the Declaration of Principles, those endearing statements written so many years ago that provide a great foundation for who we are as Tri Sigmas. The Declaration of Principles has always struck me as the backbone of the organization and are woven throughout the Essential Sigma program. This past summer I embarked on a journey to revise the Essential Sigma program to ensure that it is truly a program that all chapters can embrace and utilize for developing strong,
educated women. It seemed apparent to me that the chapter accreditation process goes hand-in-hand with the Essential Sigma program and that the Essential Sigma program could be used as a tool to aid chapters in achieving accreditation. Most of what is required throughout the Essential Sigma program relates to one of the standards for accreditation. My challenge was to show this relationship. After many conversations and lots of thought, I realized the accreditation process is truly all about our values and keeping the chapters and members on course and embracing and living those values.
So from this revelation The Essential 10 were created. Simply put, the Essential 10 are ten values statements that relate directly to the standards for chapter accreditation.
1 2 3
I value the Ritual of Sigma Sigma Sigma and how it relates to my values. I commit to living my values and the values of Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority on a daily basis. I value Sisterhood and commit to creating open and honest relationships with my Sisters and friends. I value the concept of replacing myself in the sorority and commit to recruiting at least one new member per year who will understand and live the values of Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority.
4 5 6
I value financial stability and commit to paying my financial obligations on time and budgeting wisely. I value involvement and what it teaches me about myself and in helping me develop new skills. I commit to being involved in the Sorority and on campus. I value learning about myself and others. I commit to challenging myself to continually learn about people who are different from me and topics that face me and my generation.
7 8 9 10
I value service and the concept of giving back to the community. I commit to helping others. I value knowledge and being academically successful. I commit to making this a priority in my life and to striving for academic excellence. I value the Sorority and commit to giving back as an alumna member. I value the declaration of principles, friendship, character and conduct and commit to sharing these proudly in my interactions with other sororities and organizations on campus.
Cut this out. Post it on your bathroom mirror. Read it and recommit to these values. They are the glue that binds us together as Sisters. This is our common bond. We are essentially Tri Sigma.
VOLUNTEER POSITIONS: Alumnae Advisory Board The role of the AAB is to guide a collegiate chapter in adhering to National Policies and Position Statements, to monitor overall chapter operations and to serve as a link between the chapter and National Organization. The Alumnae Advisory Board may consist of a Chapter Advisor, Membership/Education Advisor and Financial Advisor who are appointed by Executive Council for a triennium. The following positions on Alumnae Advisory Boards are open for volunteers. Please check the website for applications: www.sigmasigmasigma.org • A chapter in Georgia needs a Financial Advisor. • A chapter in Illinois needs a Membership/Education Advisor and an Education Advisor.
• A chapter in Louisiana is needs a Financial Advisor and a Membership/ Education Advisor. • A chapter in North Carolina needs a Membership/ Education Advisor. • A chapter in Texas needs a Membership/Education Advisor. • The following chapters need Chapter Advisors: Alpha Kappa, WV; Alpha Pi, PA; Alpha Rho, PA; Alpha Zeta, LA; Beta Upsilon, PA; Beta Xi, MO; Delta Beta, NC; Delta Chi, VA; Epsilon Chi, MA; Epsilon Psi, NY; Epsilon Rho, MN; Eta Alpha, MO; Eta Epsilon, FL; Eta Iota, OH; Eta Rho, GA; Lambda, PA; Mu, MO; Zeta Alpha, RI; Zeta Delta, NY; Zeta Eta, MN; Zeta Gamma, OK; Zeta Kappa, NJ; and Zeta Rho, RI; Zeta Tau, MO.
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Leaving the“COMFORTABLE for the Foreign Service
LIFE”
By Heather Steil, Beta Kappa
In the summer of 2005 I left my very comfortable life in Marin County, CA, to join the Foreign Service. After nearly a year of training in Washington, D.C., I arrived at the embassy in Bucharest, Romania, to work as a vice consul. Romania is a new democracy still struggling to shed the old ways of its communist government (the country's last communist leader was executed on Christmas in 1989). If you think America's political scene is crazy, it's nothing compared to Romania’s. The latest drama was the prime minister's attempt to oust the popular president. I was lucky enough to be an official embassy observer of the referendum where the people of Romania overwhelmingly voted to keep the president in power. You can imagine how tense things were recently at the
The embassy hosted a group of high school students to watch “Finding Forrester” for Black History Month. Before introducing the film, I lead a discussion comparing the mistreatment of black Americans in our history with the current situation of Roma (a.k.a. Gypsies) in Romania.
embassy's Fourth of July party when both Romanian leaders had to stand next to each other and smile while the ambassador gave a speech. As a consular officer, most of my time is spent interviewing visa applicants (80-90 per day). But occasionally something interesting comes along. I recently attended a meeting at the Ministry of Justice regarding the extradition of two men to the United States to stand trial for selling arms to terrorists. Perhaps the only hazard of being a vice consul is being spotted in public by former visa applicants. I've been cornered while taking a tour of a Transylvanian castle, coming out of the bathroom at a restaurant, and visiting a beauty salon. The price of fame! My favorite part of consular work is doing outreach with high school and college students. Young people in Romania are so optimistic about America; it’s wonderful to talk with them. The best thing about the Foreign Service is getting to travel. In my 14 months at post, I've traveled to Bulgaria,
Sigma Shadow Walkers W
alkers from meeting bright and early at Houston's Meyer Park on June 23, 2007, to walk in spirit with the Sisters who walked at Convention in Nashville. Even though they were unable to attend Convention, Northern Houston Alumnae Chapter members Barb Lisella Lindsay, Rho; Kathy King Pavlesic, Nu; and Kathleen Moore, Kappa, walked 1.3 miles around the park and then enjoyed breakfast at a nearby café. Donations were sent to Sigma Sigma Sigma Foundation in honor of the event.
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Bucharest has some interesting architecture, you just have to look a little bit to find it.
the Czech Republic, Austria, Turkey, Italy, and Croatia, with upcoming trips planned to Ukraine, Morocco and Spain. Romania itself is also a nice place to explore. The Carpathian Mountains are great for hiking and camping, and the Romanian countryside is dotted with lovely towns. Life in the Foreign Service can be challenging. Being so far away from family and friends can be lonely. The close friends I made during my training in D.C. are all scattered around the world and we never know when we will see each other again. Despite the hardships, life in the Foreign Service is certainly an adventure.
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By Carol Gregory Swango, Alpha Psi, Alumnae Coordinator Region 9
M
y husband and I love to travel and have done so quite extensively. Prior to departure I always check the Alumnae Directory CD and my hard copy of the Alumnae Directory to see if there might be a Sigma in the area where we will be traveling. When planning a recent trip to Asia, I discovered that there was an Alpha Phi living in Bangkok, Thailand, where we would be staying for three days. Upon our arrival, I called her, and she offered to come to our hotel so that we could meet and visit. Originally from Bangkok, Tatch (Tatchaporn Poolrasert) attended school at Central Michigan University where she pledged Sigma Sigma Sigma. After graduation, she worked briefly in the United States and France before returning to Bangkok. Tatch is married to a Frenchman, has a darling 15-month-old (at the time of our visit) and is expecting another child this spring. Due to her heritage, her daughter has two names: her Thai name is Naya and her French name is Anais. Her full name is Anais Naya Toussaint. Tatch works part time as general manager for a design manufacture installation test supply company and plans to continue living in Bangkok. We had a wonderful visit and although we had never met before nor corresponded, there was an instant relationship and mutual bond. We have since e-mailed and as Tatch later wrote, “It's nice to be in touch with my Sigma Sisters.”
2008 Chapter Anniversaries Collegiate Chapters
Sisters
Our
Sigma Sisterhood Spans The World
110th Alpha - 1898
80th Alpha Zeta - 1928
45th Gamma Lambda - 1963
25th Delta Psi - 1983
20th Epsilon Mu - 1988
15th Zeta Lambda - 1993 Zeta Mu - 1993 Zeta Omicron - 1993 Zeta Pi - 1993
10th Eta Eta - 1998 Eta Theta - 1998
Alumnae Chapters 95th Richmond, VA - 1913
80th Wichita, KS - 1928 Pittsburgh, PA - 1928 Huntington, WV - 1928
75th
Nikki Poteet Named
Miss Virginia Coed
Metropolitian Washington, DC - 1933
70th Oakland County, MI - 1938
60th Boston, MA - 1948 Western Wayne/Washtenaw, MI - 1948
Nikki Poteet, Epsilon Sigma, was named Miss Virginia Coed in July 2007. The 20-year old junior is majoring in biomedical engineering with a focus on biomechanics and biomaterials at Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA. She represented Virginia in the national Miss American Coed Pageant in Orlando, FL, during Thanksgiving.
40th Houma-Thibodaux, LA - 1968
35th Northern Illinois Lakes, IL - 1973
10th Tampa Bay Area, FL - 1998 Northeast, OH - 1998
Kim Kokko Davids K
im Kokko Davids, Omicron and Western Wayne-Washtenaw Alumnae Chapter and past National Officer, has been named to serve on the Legislative Social Policy Committee of the National Association of Social Workers–Michigan Chapter. This important committee is responsible for the identification of and advocacy for any state initiative that directly addresses issues impacting social workers. Some of the recent issues addressed by this committee are loan forgiveness for social workers who work in child welfare, improvement of education and training opportunities for social workers in health and behavioral health, and pay equity. Davids works for SAVA Health Care as Director of Social Work at the Nightingale Home in Warren, MI.
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ALPHA – Longwood University, Farmville, VA The women of Alpha Chapter had another wonderful and busy spring semester. Sisters participated in many service opportunities such as being note-takers and helping out with Meals on Wheels, Madeline’s House, and FACES, and put in many hours at the Longwood Center for Visual Arts. Keeping with Sigma tradition, Alpha Chapter celebrated Founders Day on April 20th and that evening participated on the Tri Sigma Relay for Life team. In February the chapter was honored to send Sisters to Lynchburg to help install Eta Upsilon. Alpha has also worked to improve their efficiency and revamped the communications system within the chapter and with alumnae. Even with this busy semester, Alpha Chapter initiated one of the largest New Member classes in recent years and is extremely proud of their new wonderful Sisters.
LAMBDA – Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Indiana, PA In August the Sisters of Lambda Chapter visited Walton House for leadership workshops. They were given crash courses in leadership and recruitment while meeting the amazing Leadership Consultants for this year. After Lambda Chapter members spend time at Walton House attending leadership and recruitment workshops. the training, the chapter was excited to get started on the new school year and recruiting beautiful new members.
MU – Truman State University, Kirksville, MO Recruitment at Truman State University marks the beginning of long-lasting friendship. Women meet for the first time and end up bonding for life in the sororities of their choice. Excitement mounts during recruitment as women show their sorority pride by wearing matching Tshirts and singing sorority songs. The strong-willed officer team of Mu brought the chapter together for some amazing rounds of workshops. Tensions and emotions ran high as the Sisterhood recruited the largest group of
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women ever. Standing at the bottom of the hill, clutching balloons and bouquets of flowers for their 40 new Sisters, the women of Tri Sigma felt the closest to each other they had felt in a long, long time.
NU – University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, MO Nu Chapter received first place in the lip sync competition during Greek Week in April 2007. Also in April, the Chapter received the Outstanding Greek Programming Award during the Greek Awards Ceremony on campus. Sisters had a great time participating in a philanthropy project, volunteering at the Ronald McDonald House in Kansas City. The following women received awards during the Founders Day banquet: Cristina Fernandez, Outstanding Freshman of the Year; Brooke Metcalf, Outstanding Sophomore of the Year; Nicole Argo, Outstanding Junior of the Year; Jen Althaus, Outstanding Senior of the Year; Nichole Metcalf, Outstanding New Member of the Year; Brooke Metcalf, Outstanding Sigma of the Year; and Nichole Metcalf, Joann Clark-Cooper Memorial Scholarship.
OMICRON – Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI During spring 2007 Omicron Chapter was awarded Chapter of the Year at EMU for the second year in a row. The chapter was also recognized for excellence in the following standard categories for EMU's Greek Standards and Assessment Program: Values Integration, Intellectual Development, Leadership Development, and Positive Relationships. Chapter President Emily Bowman participated in Miss Monroe County Scholarship program, which is a preliminary to the Miss America program. She won a $1,700 cash scholarship and was recognized for her strong participation in community service.
PI – Emporia State University, Emporia, KS Pi Chapter ended the 2006–2007 school year on a high note when Cori Samskey served as valedictorian at commencement ceremonies and Mandi Hulme accepted a position as a Leadership Consultant with Tri Sigma. The chapter enjoyed an enormously fun and productive formal recruitment for the 2007–2008 school year and welcomed 17 wonderful New Members, the most of any sorority on campus. The chapter is very grateful to its alumnae who spent many hours over the summer refurbishing the sorority house living room with a new coat of paint, refinished hardwood floors, and beautiful new furniture.
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ALPHA ALPHA – Concord University, Athens, WV
Chi Chapter kicked off this year's formal recruitment in high spirits. After spending weeks preparing, with the help of many alumnae, Chi Chapter welcomed 22 New Members on Bid Day! Chi Chapter looks forward to helping each of their New Members see what Tri Sigma can bring to their lives.
Alpha Alpha Chapter accomplished a lot in becoming accredited and being active in community service and in recruitment. The chapter was proud to send Audra Holt as the chapter delegate to Convention and to have Jessica Cook named Outstanding Member of the Region. The chapter recruited six amazing women in the spring 2007 and won first place in the Greek Week competition. Working with Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity, the Sisters helped package dried foods to be sent to Ecuador for those in need of nutritionally balanced meals.
Collegians
Our
CHI – Pittsburg State University, Pittsburg, KS
ALPHA BETA – Kent State University, Kent, OH
Chi Chapter takes a moment during recruitment for a group photo.
Alpha Beta Chapter received the highest sorority G.P.A. on campus, was accredited with honors, and received the Commitment to Excellence Award at Convention. President Amy Mader and Recruitment Director Beth Bloom enjoyed Convention by getting to know alumnae better and receiving an autographed picture from Carrie Underwood. During the summer, Nina Noskowiak raised $2,000 for Relay for Life in her hometown of Westerville, OH, and Lyndsey Williams received a scholarship to study at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. During recruitment, the Sisters and potential new members made teddy bears that will be distributed to a local hospital by the fire department.
PSI – Marshall University, Huntington, WV After breaking an 18-year losing streak to win Greek Week 2006, Psi Chapter followed up with a repeat championship in 2007. The chapter was victorious in trivia, tug-of-war, and basketball and also had several second-place standings in volleyball, cornhole, and football. On March 17, 2007, Psi Chapter celebrated its 85th anniversary. Sigma was the first sorority on Marshall University's campus in 1922, and the women of Psi are looking forward to many more prosperous years.
ALPHA EPSILON – Northwest Missouri State University, Maryville, MO Alpha Epsilon Chapter conducted a very successful recruitment with different themes each day. For “Project Sigma,” the Sisters put on a fashion show displaying the different events, activities, and philanthropies they are involved in throughout the year. The next day featured a Hawaiian theme, and the women played icebreaker games with beach balls to get to know each other. Day three was themed "A Sigma is Forever." The members explained their different philanthropies and showed a video on why Sigma is forever. Recruitment ended with a beautiful preference night and an exciting bid day! The chapter was very pleased to recruit 24 wonderful New Members.
ALPHA ZETA – Northwestern State University, Natchitoches, LA
Pi Sisters Lauren Adams and Kirsten Chesher enjoy some quiet time in the newly-remodeled living room in their Emporia, KS, Tri Sigma house.
Alpha Zeta held a very successful fall recruitment and welcomed 24 beautiful New Members. The chapter is at campus total. Last spring, Alpha Zeta won the President's Cup at the annual Greek Awards banquet. This highly coveted award is given to the best chapter of the year from Panhellenic, Interfraternity and National Pan-Hellenic governing bodies. During their Founders Day celebration, Alpha Zeta members initiated seven women as alumnae initiates. They included mothers, grandmothers, NSU faculty, and family and friends of chapter members. The
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chapter sent more than 15 women to Convention. They will continue their community service to the Cane River Girls Home and assist with the annual Christmas Angels pageant directed by chapter member Lindsay Maggio. The Sisters are very proud of Britney Burton. Mabel Lee Walton Award winner; Jeni Anderson, Margaret Freeman Everett Award winner; and Allyce Hartt, Southeastern Panhellenic Conference Coordinator 2008.
ALPHA IOTA – Northeastern State University, Tahlequah, OK Alpha Iota Chapter conducted an amazing fall recruitment with the addition of 18 fabulous new Sisters. The chapter began the semester by hosting an all-Sorority ice cream social, which was a big hit. Alpha Iota took first place in a Phi Sigma Kappa event, and the trophy is being displayed with great pride in the lounge.
ALPHA KAPPA – Fairmont State University, Fairmont, WV President Ashley Modica and Vice President Rophe Woods attended Convention in June and came back ready to teach the chapter everything they learned. During the fall semester the chapter implemented a recruitment theme, “Discover the Treasures of Tri Sigma.” Alpha Kappa is planning a 3-on-3 basketball tournament, which is keeping everyone busy. Tabitha West represented Tri Sigma well during Homecoming festivities.
ALPHA MU – University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Lafayette, LA
The Sisters of Alpha Zeta are in costume and ready to perform their baseball skit.
ALPHA THETA – Radford University, Radford, VA Twenty-five Sisters of Alpha Theta Chapter joined Team Stuller of Radford University for the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI) Walk in Richmond, VA, in October. According to coordinator Rick Stuller, the team was recognized by NAMI leaders and Gov. Tim Kaine for having the largest group at the event. The Chapter donated $200, and Sisters collected another $500 for a total donation of $700. “Mental illness support is very high profile right now in the State of Virginia, and NAMI is the largest advocacy organization with groups in every state,” said Stuller.
Alpha Mu Chapter received 27 wonderful New Members from fall recruitment. On bid day the women enjoyed a movie, “Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants.” The chapter then recruited three more outstanding women during a COB party. In late August chapter members went to the University of Louisiana at Lafayette child daycare center to pass out coloring sheets and ro color with the children. In September the women helped answer phones for the Acadiana MDA Jerry Lewis Telethon at Hotel Acadiana, which raised more than $900,000 for MDA. The chapter also received four out of five stars for the Greek Excellence Award.
Alpha Mu Sisters help out at the MDA Jerry Lewis Telethon. Pictured left to right are Kirsten Lannoo, Margaret Chiasson and Kristen Breaux. Alpha Theta members participate in the NAMI Walk
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Alpha Xi won both the Inner-Greek and Inner Campus Relations awards during the fall semester. The chapter introduced a new way to raise money for the Sigma Sigma Sigma Foundation by bringing a rock band to the UW–Whitewater campus instead of rocking in chairs. Rebecca Knutson has been training hard and has competed in three triathlons so far this year. She is getting closer to her goal of competing in an Iron Man contest. The chapter conducted a successful recruitment for 20 new members.
Bust. In September the chapter held a dedication ceremony for their beloved advisor, Jan Jones Wilson, Alpha Chi and Omega, who died of cancer. Homecoming was held in October, and the chapter participated in the festivities with Sigma Chi Fraternity.
BETA ALPHA – Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL The women of Beta Alpha have been extensively involved in giving back to the community through many hours of service. Starting in spring 2007 and continuing through the summer, the Sisters completed 704 hours of community service. Part of this commitment included cleaning bikes for resale to earn money for NIU Cares Day. In May the chapter participated in a walk-a-thon called Caps4Sam. Senior Emily Keehn contributed the most to the community service achievements, completing 168 hours of service. For the past four summers, Keehn has been a counselor at a muscular dystrophy camp in central Illinois, where for a week she was paired with a child who has muscular dystrophy.
Collegians
Our
ALPHA XI – University of Wisconsin–Whitewater, Whitewater, WI
BETA BETA – Missouri State University, Springfield, MO
Sisters from Alpha Xi took a moment to admire their shield at Convention 2007. Pictured left to right are: Katie Rozek, Caitlin Dobson, Brea Burkholz, and Breanne Ward.
The women of Beta Beta enjoyed an outstanding recruitment this fall and welcomed 65 excited new members to the house that chapter members had worked hard to renovate on the inside and outside. The chapter has grown closer and stronger through creative Sisterhoods such as pumpkin carving and painting for Halloween and Speed Sigma in which chapter members try to talk to as many different New Members as possible within the time span of the event.
BETA EPSILON – Western Illinois University, Macomb, IL ALPHA PI – Clarion University of Pennsylvania, Clarion, PA Alpha Pi Chapter received recognition for service in the Greek community. All of the Spring 2007 graduates have found jobs that suit their interests and career fields.
ALPHA PHI – Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, MI This semester Alpha Phi Chapter won the Best Sorority on Campus through the local school paper, CM Life. It was truly a great accomplishment for the Chapter. Their annual Sigma Serves Children BBQ was a great success, raising over $600 for the Foundation.
ALPHA CHI – Murray State University, Murray, KY Alpha Chi Chapter took 19 new Sisters through formal recruitment and then took four more through COR. In September the chapter joined Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity as All Sports Champs. They conducted the Ultimate Frisbee Tournament to raise money for the Sigma Sigma Sigma Foundation with sororities and fraternities and some residential colleges and organizations participating. The Sisters participated in Lambda Chi Alpha's philanthropy event, Watermelon
Beta Epsilon has recently received two prestigious awards: Western Illinois University’s Chapter of the Month award and at Convention the Outstanding Achievement in Standards of Efficiency Award. During the fall 2007 formal recruitment the chapter extended bids to 25 New Members.
BETA THETA – University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA Beta Theta Chapter welcomed 10 beautiful New Members during the recent informal recruitment period. The theme was Spring Rush 007, referencing the new James Bond film. The New Members proved to be a major asset to the house and were a huge help during spring events, including various philanthropic and volunteer Beta Theta members pay tribute to James Bond with their Spring Recruitment 007 theme. activities. 17
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BETA XI – Southeast Missouri State University, Cape Girardeau, MO Beta Xi Chapter began the 2007 fall semester with new community service projects, including the Adopt-A-Soldier program. Members send letters every week and care packages every month. The chapter participated in the Watermelon Bust philanthropy event hosted by Lambda Chi Alpha in September and placed second in the event. The chapter held a drive to provide students with school supplies that were distributed by alumnae of the Greater St. Louis Alumnae Chapter. Members helped freshmen move into their dorms at the beginning of the semester. Beta Xi held a successful recruitment, extending bids to 19 women. They have also been successful with COR.
September. Members are planning for their annual 24hour Rock-a-Thon for the Sigma Sigma Sigma Foundation to be held in November.
BETA PI – University of Wisconsin–Stout, Menomonie, WI Beta Pi Chapter doubled its numbers during formal recruitment. Members raised money for the Foundation with their Quarter Mile of Quarters fundraiser for Homecoming week. During the summer the chapter invited alumnae to visit and hosted Extreme Home Makeover: Sigma Edition, with every room receiving a new paint job. The chapter planned and participated in a women's day expo that was sponsored by the college Panhellenic on campus. Each month the members made visits to the St. Paul Children's Hospital and donated blankets, puppets, and boo boo bunnies and joined in activities with the children.
BETA TAU – University of Detroit Mercy, Detroit, MI Beta Tau Chapter is working on a service project through the Children's Hospital with five to six women volunteering to visit homes in Detroit to install free smoke detectors. The chapter was recognized on campus for its outstanding service projects for the chapter’s excellent education program. Member Nicole Knight received the Sisterhood Award for Sigma Sigma Sigma. Meghan Schubot, a recent graduate, received the Greek Woman of the Year award. Morgan Wildner was named Most Promising New Member.
BETA UPSILON – Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
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Gamma Beta seniors enjoy their last recruitment.
GAMMA ZETA – Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania, Slippery Rock, PA The women of Gamma Zeta are concentrating on recruitment, fundraising, and accreditation. The chapter has worked several Pittsburgh Steelers games and will continue to fundraise by working at University of Pittsburgh games, Kennywood Park Fright Nights, and Cedar Point. Recently, Gamma Zeta had a very successful workshop to showcase everything that their representatives learned during the National Convention. Their nationally recognized house is under a lot of positive reconstruction.
GAMMA LAMBDA – University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire, Eau Claire, WI
The Sisters of Beta Upsilon joined Zeta Psi Fraternity in raising more than $68,000 for Penn State’s 48-hour Dance Marathon (THON) to benefit the Four Diamonds Foundation of Hershey Medical Center. Meghan Keller won best female lead in the performance of “A Chorus Line” in last year’s Greek Sing competition.
Gamma Lambda Chapter worked hard all summer to have a successful formal recruitment. Their theme, “Sigma Perk!,” was based on the TV show “Friends.” The recruitment room was modeled after a coffee shop, complete with coffee, flower pots filled with coffee beans, fact sheets in the shapes of mugs, and Tri Sigma embroidered aprons.
GAMMA BETA – East Carolina University, Greenville, NC
GAMMA XI – Barton College, Wilson, NC
Gamma Beta was thrilled to welcome 16 amazing young women into their Sisterhood and thanks Gina Maurone for coming all the way to Greenville to provide her guidance and leadership during the recruitment process. The chapter welcomed parents during Family Weekend in
After starting the semester off with a strong Sisterhood event, the Sisters of Gamma Xi gave a helping hand to the city of Wilson, NC. The chapter took part in the city’s new event, First Fridays on the Lawn. This event is held in
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GAMMA PI – Gamma Pi - Nicholls State University, Thibodaux, LA The women of Gamma Pi prepared for many fun and exciting events like Greek Week, community service projects, and formal recruitment. Their hard work paid off during Greek Gamma Pi Sisters joined with the Greek Community to raise Week when they more than $5,000 for Maggie’s Heart Donation Fund to help the won numerous daughter of a Gamma Pi alumna who was born with a rare heart deficiency. Pictured are: Brittany Hebert, Brittany Guidry, awards, including Melissa Chabert, Anna Waguespack, Danielle Lagarde, and the baby is Maggie Ann Wilson. overall Greek Week winners. Gamma Pi is proud to announce that Anna Rodrigue was named Greek Goddess, and Melissa Reynolds was named Greek Woman of the Year. With the help of the NSU Greek community, more than $5,000 was raised for The Maggie’s Heart Donation Fund during Greek Week. The fund was organized to raise money for the daughter of a Gamma Pi alumna who was born with a rare heart deficiency. During the summer, Gamma Pi members and alumnae volunteered at a benefit for Maggie held in New Orleans. Fall recruitment was a huge success, and the chapter welcomed 21 amazing new women.
GAMMA PSI – Morehead State University, Morehead, KY Gamma Psi Chapter had a successful formal recruitment. “Grease” was their theme for the week long recruitment, including an informal party, “You're The One That I Want,” and a philanthropy party called “Rockin’ Robbie.”
On bid day the chapter was pleased to welcome eight new members and welcomed three more new members during open recruitment.
DELTA DELTA – The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC The Sisters of Delta Delta welcomed 67 wonderful new members into their chapter after fall recruitment. The entire chapter spent a fun and relaxing weekend at a camp on the coast of North Carolina for their New Member retreat in September. The chapter organized a Battle of the Bands fundraiser, and several Sisters began volunteering at the local animal shelter. Delta Delta Sisters are especially proud of their chapter GPA, which is continuing to rise.
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downtown Wilson each month from July through October with activities, food, and live music. Members worked closely with children, some assisting with drawing and coloring self-portraits and the rest helping with horse and carriage rides. Approximately 700 attended.
DELTA THETA – University of North Carolina at Pembroke, Pembroke, NC Delta Theta Chapter flooded the campus with new Tri Sigma posters and fresh sidewalk chalk welcoming women out to fall recruitment. Recruitment week was full of games, singing, dancing and much more, including Sigma Idol, where Sisters dressed as favorite singers and celebrities. The chapter was glad to welcome three new women.
DELTA OMICRON – Gettysburg College, Gettysburg, PA Delta Omicron Chapter had a great start to the year, recruiting one of its biggest New Member classes ever. They welcomed back Sisters who had been studying abroad, in Washington, D.C., and in Japan. The Chapter spent the fall revamping and expanding their philanthropy and working closely with local organizations to improve the lives of children within their own community
DELTA PI – Winthrop University, Rock Hill, SC Sisters of Delta Pi had the chance to visit the play therapy rooms at the UNC Hospital in Chapel Hill and to see first hand where their philanthropic money is going, not just to the children in the hospital but also to siblings and other family members. Delta Pi Chapter is proud to have been awarded the Jane E. Kinderman Standards of Efficiency Award and Website of the Year Award and to be accredited with honors.
The Sisters of Delta Pi are having fun with children in the play therapy rooms at UNC Hospital in Chapel Hill, NC.
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DELTA UPSILON – Widener University, Chester, PA Delta Upsilon strove to create new contacts within the community. They spent hours making crafts, playing games, and having friendly conversations with the local residents of a retirement home and visited nearby hospitals for play therapy with children.
DELTA CHI – University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA The chapter participated in various service projects within Panhellenic and in the greater community. The most exciting of these projects was creating care packages for a troop of Marines stationed in Iraq. Many of the chapter’s graduating seniors were admitted to top law schools, medical schools, and graduate schools. The chapter’s kitchen received a much-needed renovation during the summer.
DELTA PSI – St. Joseph's University, Philadelphia, PA The hard work and dedication of three Delta Psi Sisters was formally recognized at the Greek Awards 2006-2007 ceremony. Senior Julie Dennis, who has exemplified chapter ideals and has been extremely influential, received Greek Member of the Year 2007. Senior Colleen Flynn, previous Chapter President, received the Reverend Nicholas Rashford, S.J. Award 2007 for her positive impact on Greek Life, on campus and in the community. Chapter Advisor Linda Henderson, Delta Psi, received the Outstanding Alumnae Advisor Award. She remains an instrumental role model, even long distance after moving away from campus.
EPSILON DELTA – Gannon University, Erie, PA Five officers of Epsilon Delta attended Convention, and the chapter was accredited with honors. The chapter received the Sisterhood Award on campus last spring. In October, the chapter put on their second annual Haunted House, with proceeds being donated to Shriners Hospitals for Children in Erie, PA.
EPSILON EPSILON – The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey, Pomona, NJ Epsilon Epsilon Chapter held pajama/movie night during recruitment and planned a Monster Mash costume party for senior citizens at a local nursing home, co-sponsored with the brothers of Kappa Sigma and Phi Beta Sigma. The chapter is happy to announce they were recognized at Convention for their Horizons programming.
EPSILON ZETA – Southern Arkansas University, Magnolia, AR Epsilon Zeta Chapter was awarded the Helping Hand Award by the local Boys and Girls Club of Magnolia. The chapter works the concession stand during the club's summer baseball program and also works the arts and crafts room each day during the school year.
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EPSILON KAPPA – University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Oshkosh, WI Courtney Perlino, a 2002 graduate, was honored as the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh's 2007 Outstanding young alumnus. Perlino is a senior policy advisor for the American Medical Association in Chicago, IL. The ceremony took place in October in the University's ballroom.
EPSILON LAMBDA – Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY Epsilon Lambda ended the spring 2007 semester on a great note, winning second place in Hofstra’s Greek Week. President Samantha Kaufman was crowned Greek Goddess for raising the most money — with the combined efforts of her Sisters — for the American Kidney Foundation. Epsilon Lambda was honored to be named Sorority of the Year by the Student Government Association! Members participated in Heart Walk for the American Heart Association in September.
EPSILON MU – Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ Epsilon Mu Chapter raised $400 in four hours for the John Elliott Hero Campaign and boosted awareness about drunk driving. Their second fundraising event, “The LockIn,” involved several multi-cultural organizations seeking sponsorships and donations for an all-night event in the campus recreation center. All proceeds went to the Hero Campaign. The chapter was happy to learn they completed the most service projects on campus for the year, surpassing all other Greek Organizations by a halfdozen! Epsilon Mu also earned the second highest GPA of all sororities in the Greek community and received the first place title in Rowan University Greek Week 2007!
EPSILON NU – The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, NC Bid Day was an exciting day for the Sisters of Epsilon Nu. They were able to meet quota plus two and now have one of the largest New Member classes the chapter has ever seen. They continue to grow their bonds of Sisterhood through chapter events, such as movie nights, bake sales, spaghetti dinners, and game nights.
EPSILON OMICRON – Illinois State University, Normal IL Epsilon Omicron has implemented changes to the recruitment process by introducing a philanthropy event. Infant-sized, tied, fleece blankets were made for the Children’s Medical Center in Dallas, TX. This has become a popular and unique way of setting Tri Sigma apart from other sororities on campus.
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EPSILON PHI –- University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, NC
Epsilon Rho participated in many fundraising and community service activities throughout the spring semester. They hosted their annual “taco feed” that raised more than $1,200 for the Sigma Sigma Sigma Foundation. Community service events included the annual senior prom, an Easter egg hunt for local children, and monthly hang outs of chapter members with a local girl scout troop. The chapter won Sisterhood of the Year as well as Chapter of the Year awards on campus! Six amazing new members were initiated by the end of the semester.
Epsilon Phi Chapter welcomed back three members this semester: one who had been studying abroad in Wales, another who had been studying abroad in Australia, and the third who had been interning at Disney World. Their experiences were great topics of discussion during recruitment this fall. With an amazing turnout, Epsilon Phi recruited enough wonderful women to meet campus quota and campus total! The chapter is taking new members to the Mabel Lee Walton house in October, which none of the Sisters has ever visited!
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EPSILON RHO – Minnesota State University Mankato, Mankato, MN
EPSILON CHI – Northeastern University, Boston, MA EPSILON SIGMA – Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA The Epsilon Sigma chapter has been active in the community and on campus throughout the fall semester. The VCU Insight Team, which is VCU’s own news channel, interviewed Sisters about friendship during lunch at the dining center and broadcast it on local television. In September, approximately 40 chapter members enjoyed the memorable experience of working on a Habitat for Humanity house in the name of Mary Elizabeth Brooks, who recently joined Omega Chapter.
EPSILON TAU – Saint Leo University, Saint Leo, FL Epsilon Tau celebrated Founders Day with a potluck and get-together with family and alumnae. Two seniors, Crystal Odom and Ashley Pike, completed their Circle Degree as they prepared to graduate in May. The chapter also initiated five new Sisters in the spring.
Last spring, Epsilon Chi was awarded Northeastern University Sorority of the Year 2007 during the Greek Awards. The chapter was also recognized for outstanding performance in philanthropy, leadership development and community service. Krystal Beaulieu received Greek Woman of the Year, and past president Kelli Morse received Outstanding Greek Senior. To round out the awards, they took first place in Greek Week 2007. Epsilon Chi was also one of the organizations represented in a campus-wide inaugural parade for Northeastern University’s new President. In the spring the chapter welcomed an exciting new book club and held a karaoke Sisterhood event. Members volunteered for a bone marrow drive, and many participated in Sigma Delta Tau's annual Walk to Keep Kids Safe. In mid-summer, approximately 10 Sisters completed a community service project with Habitat for Humanity. The women volunteered in the fall during move-in week on campus and hosted their annual Teeter-Totter-A-Thon on Northeastern’s Student Quad in October to raise money for children’s play therapy.
EPSILON PSI – Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY In September, Epsilon Psi had a table at Applefest, a mini fair where organizations for the deaf come together. The Chapter had many girls sign the list for information about recruitment. The Epsilon Psi recruitment theme was “Grease.”
ZETA ALPHA – Bryant University, Smithfield, RI Epsilon Tau Chapter gathers for Founders Day.
EPSILON UPSILON – Marist College, Poughkeepsie, NY Epsilon Upsilon has been busy participating in many community service and Sisterhood events. This year they planned Relay for Life and Alex’s Lemonade Stand at Marist. Their Relay for Life team won the highest award for raising the most money for the second year in a row.
Zeta Alpha members worked hard to fund raise by volunteering at different events at Gillette Stadium, which included Revolution games, Patriots’ preseason games, and Country Fest. They participated in several philanthropies in the fall, including the Out of Darkness Walk for suicide prevention, a breast cancer walk, their semi-annual Roll For Robbie, and volunteering at soup kitchens. The chapter will continue to work at Gillette Stadium for fund raising and will hold their semi-annual Yankee Candle Sale. The women of Zeta Alpha were very excited to welcome a leadership consultant for a week in September.
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ZETA DELTA – State University of New York College at Oneonta, Oneonta, NY
ZETA OMICRON – Seton Hall University, South Orange, NJ
Zeta Delta Chapter recruited 20 new members during the spring semester, the largest new member class in a few years. During their new member process, they participated in community service and fund raising events held by the chapter. The semester concluded with all members participating in Greek Week. Samantha Vitale, Daryl Cooper, and Alaina Gul, attended the National Convention and brought back new ideas and experiences to share with the chapter.
Senior Shilpa Ailani served as assistant choreographer for all the dances in “Hasty Hasty ... Follow Your Heart,” a Hollywood dance-style movie released in late November. She also danced in two of the songs for the movie. Ailani organized a group of five Sisters to participate in freshmen move-in day, helping freshmen move into campus housing.
ZETA ETA – Winona State University, Winona, MN Not only has Zeta Eta been recruiting new members, the chapter has been volunteering. Members volunteer twice a week at the local YMCA, tutoring children kindergarten through fourth grade. Once a month they serve fresh fish at the VFW. Ten of the Sisters recently participated in and helped staff the local county Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk. The chapter is proud of Christine Hanley, who left in the summer to attend Navy basic training where she was named an Honor Graduate in her division and appointed division Yeoman.
ZETA THETA – Idaho State University, Pocatello, ID Thanks to the hardworking efforts of the chapter members, Zeta Theta was Accredited with Honors for the first time in three years. Within the Greek community, Zeta Theta placed first in the Greek Week competition in April. Valerie Fedon, Chapter President, was named Greek Woman of the Year for the entire Greek Community. The chapter was named Greek Chapter of the Year on the Idaho State campus. Zeta Theta also took first place for their float in the Homecoming parade.
ZETA KAPPA – Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ At the close of the spring semester, Zeta Kappa Chapter received an award for Best Large Organization on campus. In September, the chapter celebrated its 15th anniversary, attended by nearly all of their Sisters since Zeta Kappa was chartered.
ZETA LAMBDA – Wingate University, Wingate, NC During the spring semester, Zeta Lambda focused on community service. Members collected tabs for the Shriners hospital that helped raise $6,600. The chapter is making this a year-round project.
ZETA MU – University of Alaska–Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK Zeta Mu Chapter helped with the World Ice Championships in March helping to clean up the park and making the ice sculpture areas ready for public viewing. The chapter also helped local community service organizations with various projects. They took pictures of children at a dog mushing event and helped with an Easter Egg hunt on campus. They finished the year with a “Roping for Robbie” jumprope-a-thon. 22
ZETA PI – Virginia Wesleyan College, Norfolk, VA Zeta Pi is very proud of the seven awards it brought back from Convention, especially Chapter of the Year and Chapter of the Triennium Awards. The chapter would like to thank their advisor, Natalie Moore Averette, Gamma Beta, for her 15 years of amazing service to Zeta Pi!
ZETA RHO – Johnson and Wales University, Providence, RI The 30 beautiful Sisters of the Zeta Rho Chapter have been arduously working to improve collegiate life at Johnson and Wales University. Even before the start of classes, they warmly welcomed freshmen at move-in weekend. In doing so, they assisted the new students in becoming familiar and comfortable, not only with the campus but within the city of Providence as well. They participated in “Sororities in the City,” an event where the Sigmas personally toured the sites of Providence with freshmen girls. Other events during PC week gave Sisters the opportunity to correspond with young women interested in Greek life. Fraternity and sorority members gathered at the Greek Fair held on campus, where students met groups and had the chance to mingle, have fun, and ask questions about them. The Sisters are extremely excited about a few upcoming events. They will be participating in a breast cancer walk and a kidney disease walk, hoping to raise funds for awareness about both diseases.
ZETA TAU – Missouri Western State University, Saint Joseph, MO Zeta Tau had a very successful formal recruitment in September, welcoming 10 amazing, bright women to the chapter. Members attended several events throughout the semester to promote unity among
The Sisters of Zeta Tau pose for a group shot during recruitment.
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ETA ALPHA – Stephens College, Columbia, MO
ZETA UPSILON – Fitchburg State College, Fitchburg, MA Zeta Upsilon participated in the autism walk in Rhode Island in September and in the breast cancer walk in October; a significant amount of money was raised. They hosted an alumnae brunch in November and thank all the alumnae who attended. Their recruitment director decided this year’s theme would be “The ’80s!” Although they have not completed recruitment yet, the chapter hopes to receive a number of good quality Tri Sigma women who will live up to the standards of this Sisterhood.
Formal recruitment wrapped up in early September for Eta Zeta Chapter, and they loved the new recruitment plans given to them by National Headquarters. Sister Shauna Moore was not able to attend recruitment as she was living out her dream as an exchange student in Italy. The chapter participated in the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon for a sixth consecutive year with a record-breaking run. The chapter also celebrated an anniversary last December as the oldest Greek organization at the University of Alaska–Anchorage,“Steadfast on Campus for 10 Years!”
ZETA PSI – The College of New Jersey, Ewing, NJ
ETA ETA – Lynn University, Boca Raton, FL
Two members of Zeta Psi Chapter had the opportunity to study abroad. Ericka Hoyos spent the spring semester studying in Seville, Spain and traveling to many cities in Spain and other countries such as Morocco, Portugal, and Italy. Jenna Meyerberg, Outstanding Member of the Region, studied in Spain for five weeks during the summer and visited Pamplona during the Running of the Bulls. Other collegiate members completed internships. Kelly Field worked as a nursing extern at St. Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston, NJ, taking care of patients undergoing renal transplants, medical-surgical patients, and patients in critical care. Ashley Ragg took an internship position at the Newark Museum in Newark, NJ, and helped organize the media preview for a new show at the Consul General’s office in New York City.
Eta Eta Chapter participated the university’s first Relay for Life in April 2007 that included a team devoted to the cure and prevention of cervical cancer. Three members have been afflicted with the disease. The event raised more than $25,000. The chapter also helped to raise more than $2,800 for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer and participated in World AIDS Day raising funds for Youth AIDS: PSI. They held two Jail ’N Bails for their philanthropy. The chapter ranked among the highest GPAs on campus and was recognized at the annual Greek scholarship banquet. Recruitment this year yielded the highest turnout in the history of the chapter.
The Sigmas of Eta Alpha Chapter in Columbia, MO, prepared for recruitment at the Tan-Tar-A Resort in Lake of the Ozarks. The chapter looked forward to another large recruitment group of more than 40 potential new members.
ETA ZETA – University of Alaska-Anchorage, Anchorage, AK
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Greek organizations and attended the Greek Life New Member Retreat. For Homecoming they built a float, “The Next Top Sigma.” The women also held several Sisterhoods throughout the semester that made all of them become so close to each other. The chapter helped their community by cleaning up their adopted highway. Members attended Up ’Til Dawn to raise funds for Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
ETA THETA – Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, MN The women of Eta Theta held four formal recruitment events and a few informal events. A yacht club theme party won an award from the local Inter-Greek Senate for best recruitment event. Three members attended Convention where the chapter won three awards: Chapter Accreditation with Honors, Outstanding Achievement in Standards of Efficiency Award, and Foundation Honor Roll. The fall semester began with the last two formal recruitment events and pearl ceremony. The women were excited to welcome back two members from studying abroad and have one Sister studying in India for the semester.
Jenna Meyerberg, Eta Psi, stands in front of the Royal Palace during her summer in Spain.
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ETA IOTA – Defiance College, Defiance, OH
ETA XI – Ursinus College, Collegville, PA
In August Tri Sigma, Alpha Xi Delta and Phi Sigma Chi sororities helped the freshmen move into their residences. The chapter joined other Greek organizations in recruitment events that included an ice cream social, bonfire, frozen T-shirt contest, and a movie night for Greeks and for anyone interested in joining Greek life on campus. They also attended a retreat for Greeks to get to know their new Greek Life Advisor better.
The Sisters of Eta Xi held a retreat in September to focus on recruitment and how to improve their chapter. Ursinus College is an extremely small campus, and Sigma is the only national sorority represented. This chapter was fortunate to have Meghan Bredell attend the Undergraduate Interfraternity Institute (UIFI) leadership conference.
ETA KAPPA – Texas Woman's University, Denton, TX Eta Kappa began the school year with the National Panhellenic Conference. The NPC sororities hosted “Rockin’ the Commons” in August to raise drug and alcohol awareness and use of the date rape drug GHB. The TWU police were present to give an eye-opening demonstration on the effects of drinking and driving that included a field sobriety test. During the event, members met and recruited several new members.
ETA OMICRON – Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX Eta Omicron Chapter celebrated its fifth year on campus in April by combining this anniversary with their Founders Day celebration with the alumnae. It was especially meaningful to celebrate this special day with several of the charter members of the chapter. The chapter’s celebration included lunch, a raffle, and the Sigma Send-On for its four senior members.
Celebrating five years of Sisterhood, Eta Omicron Chapter is still smiling with Sigma spirit.
Ashton Hedges, Eta Kappa, serves mock-tails during a drug and alcohol awareness event called Rockin’ the Commons.
ETA NU – Ramapo College of New Jersey, Mahwah, NJ The women of Eta Nu Chapter participated in a breast cancer walk, Relay for Life, and the multiple sclerosis walk. These events were excellent opportunities for the chapter to be active in their local community while also helping raise funds and awareness for causes that have impacted members.
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ETA PI – Metropolitan State College of Denver, Denver, CO Eta Pi was represented at Convention by collegians Amber Derryberry, Sydney Pollock, Erica Munguia, Lia Moran, and Jamie Elward, and AAB members Amanda Koback, Jenifer Kumfer, and Bobbi Smith. In September Eta Pi made recruitment a high priority. With guidance from Membership Recruitment Director, Sydney Pollock, members participated in Metro State’s Student Involvement Fair, Greek Week, and Fall Fest. The chapter focused on philanthropy last semester, and many Sisters worked as tutors in The Children’s Literacy Center.
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Eta Rho Chapter decided on a Las Vegas theme for formal recruitment, setting up different tables for philanthropy, financial, Sisterhood, and academic information, each with a Las Vegas flair. The tagline was “Welcome to the Fabulous Tri Sigma!” They presented a small skit on theme night and danced to the song “Luck Be a Lady Tonight” to welcome their fabulous new Sisters.
ETA TAU – Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona Beach, FL Eta Tau has been winning awards! The chapter was recognized for achieving the highest GPA ranking of all sororities and Greek life on campus. The chapter met quota during fall recruitment and was only one away from attaining total. Meghan Moundalexis won the Most Outstanding Senior Award from the Human Factors and Systems Department. The chapter was pleased to have five members attend the Convention in Nashville.
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ETA RHO – Armstrong Atlantic University, Savannah, GA
ETA UPSILON – Lynchburg College, Lynchburg, VA Informal recruitment week began in September with a Hawaiian-themed recruiting event. Sisters and potential new members got to know each other while playing limbo and participating in a hula hoop competition. Informal recruitment week continued with “Pretty in Pink, Perfect in Purple.” New members Samantha Ritter and Emily Rieve were welcomed by the Sisters on bid day with cheers and hugs.
Eta Rho Sisters enjoy their theme night during recruitment.
ETA SIGMA – Culver–Stockton College, Canton, MO Since the campus does not provide dinner on Sunday nights, the Sisters of Eta Sigma came up with the idea of cooking meals in the kitchen and serving them to the chapter for “Sigma Sunday Dinner.” The chapter has been cheering on the fall sports teams, including their five women’s soccer players and one volleyball player. Eta Upsilon Sisters enjoy lunch together on Bid Day. Pictured from left to right: Treasurer Heather Richards, President Nicole Carneal, Amanda Pillow, and Samantha Ritter.
Eta Pi Sisters are full of color during ‘80s night at Fall Recruitment. Pictured left to right: MacKenzie Lintz, Tiffany Pendleton, Kalilah Shelton and Krystle Surmeier
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Welcome to Our Newest Colony: Pratt Institute T
ri Sigma's newest colony was made official through the Arc Degree ceremony on Sept. 17, 2007, welcoming 25 beautiful women into our organization. Pratt Institute, located in Brooklyn, New York, is one of the nation's premier art and design schools. Tri Sigma is thrilled to join Theta Phi Alpha as the second NPC organization at Pratt. The colony women are excited to learn about Tri Sigma's rich history and traditions while being a part of creating a legacy of their own on campus. Congratulatory cards and e-mails can be sent to Colony President, Jill Mamey, jmamey@pratt.edu or to Student Activities Office, Attn: Sigma Sigma Sigma, 200 Willoughby Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11205.
Mizzou University of Missouri-Columbia
Sigma Sigma Sigma to Colonize at the University of Missouri-Columbia T
he Membership Development Department is delighted to announce that we will colonize our 184th collegiate chapter at the University of Missouri–Columbia in fall 2008. The University of Missouri–Columbia is one of only 34 institutions in America to gain membership in the elite Association of American Universities, ranking it in the top four percent of the nation’s four-year institutions. In the University’s offer to colonize, Julie L. Drury, Panhellenic Advisor, wrote that Tri Sigma “would be the best fit for our campus.”
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Planning is under way for this colonization. The National Organization is seeking the support and assistance of local alumnae in and around Columbia, MO, to serve on the Alumnae Advisory Board and Housing Corporation. If you are interested in being considered for these positions, please fill out a volunteer service application found on the Sigma Sigma Sigma website. Applications are due by Jan. 15, 2008. For more information, please contact Extension Director, Beth Fisher, at efisher@kutztown.edu or 267-879-2694.
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In January 2007 the Alpha Omicron Chapter at the University of Central Arkansas having been originally chartered in March, 1935, was closed due to declining membership. After the chapter closed, it became apparent that other students wanted
to be a part of rebuilding this Tri Sigma chapter. So on March 11, 2007, Tri Sigma, with the help of National Officers and nearby Sigma collegiate chapter members, recolonized at UCA with 42 wonderful new members.
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Welcome Back to an Old Friend: The University of Central Arkansas
The Triangle Photo Submission Guidelines Want to see your chapter's photo published in “The Triangle?” Following these submission guidelines will improve your chances: • Limit one photo per chapter. More photos may be run for feature stories, colonizations and chapter installations. • We can use photo prints (the designer will scan them) sent snail-mail, or e-mailed as digital images. • Digital should be shot at 300 dpi or higher at the desired size in inches, and submitted as a High Quality JPEG file attachment.
72 dpi
@ 1.75” x 1.75”
300 dpi
@ 1.75” x 1.75”
• Photos of just a few Sisters (three to five) are best. Five or less in a photo will need full ID as applicable (first, maiden, last) and initiating chapter. • Action photos are preferred to staged, group photos. • Photos with “Sigma fingers” will not be printed.
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Action
• Submit photos that showcases an activity in which your chapter participates.
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CALIFORNIA Inland Empire alumnae recently welcomed Carolyn Smith Mears, Alpha Upsilon; Janice Kidwell Sansom, Alpha Gamma; and Natalie Thompson, Alumna Initiate candidates to their chapter. They are proud of their 2007 award winners: Ruby Larby Simpson, Rho, Emily Gates Achievement Award; and Gwen Hall Marino, Beta Kappa, Woman of Distinction.
Inland Empire Alumnae pictured from left are: Carolyn Smith Mears, Alpha Upsilon; Janice Kidwell Sansom, Alpha Gamma; and Natalie Thompson, Alumna Initiate Candidate
MISSOURI Greater St. Louis alumnae know membership in Tri Sigma is a lifetime commitment and give back in many ways. The chapter has several members who serve at the national level. Amanda Rainey, Beta Xi; Kim Farris, Alpha Omicron; Mandy Herbeck McGuire, Beta Xi; and Marilyn McGraw Beiter, Beta Xi, are all National Officers. Jan Stroker Horner, Beta Xi, serves as Chairman of the Sigma Sigma Sigma Foundation, and Kate Gaston, Alpha Chi, is employed by the Foundation as a GOLD Program Development Officer. Christina Belmar Halim, Beta Xi; and Andrea Cates Miller,
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Pictured are some of the Greater St. Louis alumnae at the home of Susan Tucker Monroe, Beta Beta, for the first fall meeting.
Epsilon Omicron, work with collegiate chapters on AABs and Housing Corporation Boards. Many members of the chapter give back financially by supporting the Foundation GOLD Program and making annual contributions at Founders Day. In addition, the entire chapter sends care packages to nearby collegiate chapters and readily volunteers for events that put the name Tri Sigma out in our community.
NEW JERSEY North Jersey alumnae made Halloween treat bags for children at a local women's shelter in October at the home of Liz Wakeman Hoffert, Beta Xi. Hoffert, who is moving to Arizona, donated many items from her famous Sigma room to be sold, with proceeds going to the Foundation. North Jersey Sigmas will miss Hoffert as she exemplifies what it means to be a Sigma. She has inspired them through her strong commitment to the Sorority as a National Officer, as a wise and valued alumnae chapter member, and as a true Sister who is also a friend. Best wishes to Hoffert as she embarks on her next adventure.
PENNSYLVANIA Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania alumnae recently gathered in New York for their tri-annual dinner.
MINNESOTA Twin Cities alumnae made Simpson House birthday bags.
BUP Alumnae pictured from left: Jean Pascale, Lori Beck, Linda McNicholas-Lynch and Carmella Perrotta Haber.
MICHIGAN
Twin City Alumnae
Alumnae Sisters from Grand Rapids, MI, gathered in May 2007 to present the Golden Violet Award to Marcia Yaw Marsh, Beta Rho, who
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Sigmas in Greece Sigma Sisters explore the glories of the past as they journey through ancient Greek civilizations. Marie Andrews McGrath, Alpha Tau, from Rockville, MD; Nancy Apman Walston, Alpha Chi, from Boise, ID; and Judi Chandler Richards, Alpha Chi, from West Bloomfield, MI, enjoy the scenery at the El Greco Hotel in Fira, the capital of the island of Santorini.
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is a Western Michigan University graduate. Marsh was initiated in 1957 and held the offices of Vice President and Secretary as a collegian. She is a retired teacher, having taught K-12 physical education for five years and third and fourth grades for more than 30 years at Forest Hills Public Schools in Grand Rapids, MI. With a passion for horses, she and her husband, Dave, belong to the Michigan Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association. She enjoys reading, gardening, traveling and spending time with their son, Bill, daughter, Susan, and their families.
Golden Violet recipient Marcia Yaw Marsh, front row, center.
Alpha Gamma Reunion Alpha Gamma Chapter members held a reunion October 5 – 7 during Fort Hays State University's 2007 Homecoming. Activities began on Friday morning with a brunch, followed by a Sigma gathering Friday afternoon, a Sigma dinner Friday evening, and riding in the parade Saturday morning. Additional activities included a Saturday evening dinner and a brunch Sunday morning.
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From the Sigma Editor’s Note: Julie Lammel talked with me at Convention in June about how it felt being a Sigma without a chapter. I thought this would make a compelling story for The Triangle and asked if she would do it, to include other Sigmas who no longer have their initiating chapter. The perspectives she gives are moving and full of Sigma heart. –BVC
My Life Without Alpha Sigma By Julie Lammel, Alpha Sigma and Nashville Alumnae
When I saw the envelope with the official Sigma Sigma Sigma logo on it, I knew. I had heard through the Sigma grapevine that it was coming. I took a deep breath and read the letter. “We regret to inform you that the Executive Council has removed the charter of Alpha Sigma Chapter … the pleasure of alumnae membership is always yours.” All those memories came flooding back. Winning Greek Week and Patsy being crowned Queen … Susan — we called her Mother — who helped us to understand men … rooming with Chaille and enjoying those late night talks … living in the Panhellenic dorm … placing Julie Lammel as an Alpha in Song Fest under Mary Elisabeth’s Sigma Pledge. capable direction … Charm School and Harmony Hour (I still don’t cross my I am blessed to belong to an incredible alumnae chapter. The women of the Nashville Alumnae Chapter have had a tremendous impact on my life. So “Thanks” to each and every one of them for helping me to stay involved and in love with Sigma Sigma Sigma. Because, indeed, the pleasure of alumnae membership is mine!
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legs at the knee) … building floats for the University of Southern Mississippi Homecoming parades. I remembered, as Alpha Sigma President, initiating a young Laura Ward, who made all Alpha Sigmas proud when she was one day installed as the National President of Tri Sigma. A feeling of sadness, then anger, then more sadness came over me. A big part of my life had just closed. To be honest, these were the women I REALLY grew up with. I can’t imagine my life without my Alpha Sigma Sisters. Peggy, Susan, Patsy, Gail, Joyce, Fran, Sarah, Laura, and Mary Jane. Each of you had a part in making me the strong, independent woman I am today. I cherish these women and the events I experienced as an Alpha Sigma. There will always be a place in my heart for my Alpha Sigma days. I have been lucky to find Sigma life with the Nashville Alumnae Chapter of which I am a Charter Member. We were chosen to host Sigma’s 2007 National Convention. As my Nashville Alumnae Sisters welcomed the collegiate delegates from their chapters, I was alone. As I stood in the lobby of the Sheraton Music City, I wondered how other Sigmas dealt with the loss of their collegiate chapters. I decided to ask some high profile Sigmas how losing that part of their Sigma life had affected their feelings about Sigma.
In 2007 at the Sigma National Convention Julie Lammel talks with fellow Alpha Sigma Laura Ward Sweet, National President of Sigma Sigma Sigma
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It feels funny not to have a chapter delegate. It bothered me not to see my collegiate shield, but I belong to two alumnae chapters and am proud of their shields.
Alumnae
Our
Diana Sarber Beta Mu (Central State University) and Oklahoma City Alumnae Chapter and Edmond Oklahoma Alumnae Chapter, Past National President, Walton House Board Member
Peggy Gamble Alpha Sigma (University of Southern Mississippi) and Central Florida Alumnae Chapter and Daytona Beach Area Alumnae Chapter, 2007 Steadfast Alumnae Citation winner, Past National Treasurer, Copy Editor of The Triangle, Walton House Board Member Losing my collegiate chapter had no impact on my feelings about Sigma. I take advantage of my work with Sigma to meet and work with Sisters from my chapter and other chapters.
Ann Williams Gamma Eta (Loyola University) and New Orleans Alumnae Chapter, Past National President, Past Foundation Chairman I was a Charter Member of Gamma Eta. I now feel that telling women about the advantages of membership is one way to stay involved and to help other women know the advantages of Sisterhood.
Susie Kuhn Beta Gamma (Ball State University) and Indianapolis Alumnae Chapter, Foundation Board Member, Past Alumnae Vice President Because of my involvement as a National Officer since 1977, I see the broader scope with Sigma. Sisterhood is not one chapter or one state. It is nationwide and all age levels. It’s important to have Sisterhood in the development of women. I realize now that I have spoken to Sigmas throughout the country, I am really not alone. I share a bond with Sisters whose collegiate chapters are gone. I realize that my chapter is a small part of the big picture that is Sigma Sigma Sigma. I was reminded that the last four Sigma National Presidents were from chapters that are no longer on their college campuses.
Bethany Deines Beta Kappa (Arizona State University), Membership Development Vice President and past Executive Director My attachments are now to the women I meet as part of my national service to Sigma. The National Organization is my second chapter. I always feel I have a home somewhere.
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Seventh National President
Helen Marie Eggert Snyder Enters Omega Chapter (1926 – 2007)
S
igma Sigma Sigma Sorority grieves the passing of its beloved seventh National President, Helen Marie Eggert Snyder, Alpha Xi and Omega. Helen Marie's Sigma life began in 1945 with initiation into Alpha Xi Chapter at State Teachers College, Whitewater, WI. As Alpha Xi Chapter President in 1947, she was the delegate to the Golden Anniversary Convention in Williamsburg, VA. She returned to Whitewater with enough spirit, dedication, and know-how to lead her chapter to its third Efficiency Cup in 1948! As Chapter President she had corresponded with Mabel Lee Walton. As a National Officer she had worked closely with three National Presidents learning from them and training for her various Sigma roles. She served Tri Sigma unselfishly from 1949 through 1992 in various volunteer positions. She was appointed Ceremonials Chairman in 1949 and in 1954 took over as Senior Send-Off Chairman. From 1958 to 1967, as Tri Sigma's regional concept was evolving, she served as a collegiate officer. Following a year's sabbatical due to family commitments and full-time teaching, she returned in 1969 to chair a regional pilot program in the northwest, back to corresponding with collegians, which she thoroughly enjoyed. Subsequently she would serve as Regional Collegiate Director, National Collegiate Chairman, Special Services, Director of Finance, and Alumnae Extension Director. At the 1971 Convention, Helen Marie, awed and humbled by the unanimous Convention vote, spoke from her heart when she vowed to serve the Sorority as National President. Sigma's values — love of
God, love of family, love of Sigma — was basic to her own life, she said. Her 12-year term from 1971 to 1983 became her most notable legacy to Sigma Sigma Sigma. In June 2007 at the 41st National Convention, National President Laura Ward Sweet praised Helen Marie Eggert Snyder for her service to Tri Sigma and asked that all members keep her in their thoughts and prayers. “Only Mabel Lee Walton served as National President for a longer term,” Sweet said. “Helen Marie provided the leadership for Tri Sigma during an era when the existence of fraternal organizations was called into question. It is safe to say that
Helen Marie steered us through rough waters and helped us weather the storm.” Snyder received numerous accolades and awards for her unwavering loyalty and support of Tri Sigma over the years and received her Golden Violet in 1995, recognizing 50 years of active membership. Also in 1995, she received the prestigious Founders Award, which recognizes those members who have made significant contributions to the growth and development of Sigma Sigma Sigma. At the most recent National Convention in June 2007, she was also named one of Tri Sigma’s Women of Distinction, a woman who has distinguished herself as a Tri Sigma or in her professional or community activities. At the 1971 National Convention, Snyder gave the delegation, and her Sorority, an unforgettable message. “With love in our hearts for each other, with ideas and facts we have learned and shared, let us stand tall in the society that cuts us down and be willing to make the decisions to step over the line — do more than is required — and our Sorority will be strong forever!” Editor’s Note: The family of Helen Marie Eggert Snyder has created an endowed scholarship in her name. The Sigma Sigma Sigma Foundation Board has begun to accept donations and is placing any memorials received in her name into the scholarship. Look for details in the Foundation’s annual report contained in this issue. The scholarship has also been publicized in Golden Glimpses.
Helen Marie’s Extraordinary Service By Mary Barbee, Iota and Past National President
Helen Marie Snyder’s decision to go through “rush,” now called Recruitment, at Whitewater reflects her way of looking at life … become a participant with others, and enjoy making your community “the best” with a close group of friends. She believed in the strength of working together through friendship, the cornerstone of our Sorority. Rush was a dress/shirt, white gloves and hat (some days), five-day event. And at the end of it, Helen Marie got her first choice for life — Sigma Sigma Sigma, Alpha Xi Chapter. Her skill as an organizer meant that she soon held office in the chapter and as Chapter President. The Sorority was significantly smaller then, and the practice was that the
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chapter officers corresponded directly with their Executive Council counterparts. So, Helen Marie was groomed by Mable Lee Walton and Mary Hastings Page. As Chapter President she attended her first Tri Sigma Convention where she met and continued a lifelong friendship with Phyllis McIntyre, Beta Zeta, and later to become Editor of “The Triangle.” They attended Convention as new moms, stayed up all night getting out “The Angle,” ironed white dresses, and went to nearly all Tri Sigma Conventions from that time on as National Officers. In 1971 at Convention in Denver, CO, Helen Marie became National President. She served for 12 years during very difficult times for fraternal life.
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Her term inherited many responsibilities, such as reviewing and approving all vouchers, etc., prior to payment from the national organization treasury. She was the second signature on all checks. Her annual report always cited how many letters she wrote each year and how much it cost for postage, how many miles she traveled for the Sorority, and nearly every operational detail of the organization, which is simply a reflection of how very organized and meticulous she was. Helen Marie’s knowledge and respect for every national officer was exceptional. She offered encouragement when campus conditions were difficult, and was familiar with the work each did through their reports and personal contact. She served as Chairman of the National Presidents of National Panhellenic Conference when Tri Sigma held the Chairmanship of NPC, and attended many interfraternal events, including the Bicentennial Celebration with the National Interfaternity Conference in 1976. A tireless, devoted officer and member, Helen Marie is remembered as a Sister of outstanding values and ethics with a beautiful, warm smile — a true woman of character.
Remembering Helen Marie By Mimi Brandt Hiner, Beta Xi and Greater St. Louis Alumnae Chapter, Past National President
The essence of Helen Marie is exhibited in how those who have loved her and served with her will remember her. Margaret Parker Munger, Alpha Tau, expressed it best in a note to me after Helen Marie’s death. “She was a loving mentor to so many; encouraging us and challenging us to reach within and find personal resources we did not know we had.” As a 30-year-old I never knew I could go to an Eastern state and renegotiate a million dollar loan with bank officers who were older than I am now. I had no idea I could meet with university administrators to establish a chapter or with chapter members to withdraw a charter. I knew that I neither wanted to be National President nor could follow such a strong, organized leader into the office. Because of Helen Marie’s nurturing and mentoring, I have become the woman and leader I never even imagined being. When her voluminous files were sent to me upon becoming National President, I had an even greater respect for what she did for Sigma Sigma Sigma. First of all, it was a personal look into all she had done within the Sorority, but was never boastful. Her graciousness was evident with the myriads of thank-you notes, and then thank-you notes for the thank-you notes! Upon her election as National President in 1971, Helen Marie vowed to serve the Sorority, noting that love of God, love of family, and love of Sigma would guide her service. Helen Marie’s love of God was evident in all of her decisions and interactions with others. It was my privilege to represent Tri Sigma at Helen Marie’s funeral. The service was held in the church in which she was raised. She attended school at the parochial school there and was confirmed at the church. Members of the choir in which she sang for many years, paid tribute to her through their voices and the songs she loved. Helen Marie was one of the very first women to serve on a national committee for the Missouri Synod Lutheran Church. The headquarters of the denomination is in St. Louis, and I picked her up at the airport and took her to the hotel. She was so very excited about being asked to serve. She loved her family. One doesn’t think of Helen Marie without thinking of Howard and the loving home they provided for their children. Staying at the Snyder home was like visiting with best friends. Helen Marie gave us her personal legacy with her daughter, Pam, who has all the strengths from her dad and mom rolled into one person. Her Sigma family will always be proud to call her our Sister. Those who worked closely with Helen Marie and dearly loved her will feel that she is still here because of the positive imprint she made upon our lives.
!!Back by popular demand!! ROCKING CHAIR SIGMAS 1986 FINALE Helen Marie Snyder, Alpha Xi and Omega, and Phyllis McIntyre, Beta Zeta History reports on the accomplisments of Helen Marie Snyder...and they are many and well worth reporting. History, however, does not always tell everything! And, therein lies a tale or two... In 1947 was Sigma’s Golden Jubilee Among those attending were Sigmas her and me. Green as grass with eyes so big at this new view of our dear Sorority. As collegiate delegates we gaped and stared and listened intently to all that was aired. Delivering Convention newspapers, each day at five a.m. we appeared ’cause we accidentally raised our hands and found we had volunteered? In ‘50 we met again in Chicago and we really felt we were in the know. Not quite so green, not quite so shy for married and National Officers were she and I. By the sea in ‘53 two big girls were we. Once more meek, once more shy, rooming together were she and I and so retiring for as all could see we both were pregnant — her and me. Down flights of stairs we were sent with orders to stay down in the basement all through the day and all through the night ‘till the Convention newspaper was run off right. In ‘56 THEY had to do without — us. Pregnant again without a doubt — us. our doctors orders — Convention? OUT! — US. At St. Louis in ‘59 they separated her and I. The Angle office drag was me. An honorable RCD was me. Shelling shrimp at Biloxi in ‘62 made her sick and did her too. There, a new adventure for us was in store. Orders sent us to the first floor as chaperones, which job we were handed ‘cause at the hotel the Air Force had landed. Then, for ‘65 we could hardly wait. The New York World’s Fair was the bait. A short “Hi” and that was all... For, business as usual — duty called. Roanoke Convention in ‘68 Her and I did surely rate as Convention Marshall a purple ribbon my chest did cross as Editor my fate? A seat in the front — on the stage — where I gathered moss. Convention ‘71 found us together again. As president and Editor, our ways we would wend. On into the ’80’s we still did our part For we’re Sigmas true purple, head, arms, legs, hands, heart. Now in ’86 we celebrate a friendship of 40 minus one years. We’ve shared many smiles and also some tears. Yes, in Indianapolis you see us appearing Still vibrant, still vital, and STILL VOLUNTEERING! Honest, we planned to do this just once, to have a small celebration of a friendship found in Sigma Tri which was of 20 years duration. Now, here we are again on view, and let that be a lesson to you. A lesson, dear Sisters that we cannot soften for we were caught volunteering ONCE TOO OFTEN!!! So, now once again we write “Finis” to this great saga of her — and me. Though still true purple, we’re now hard of hearing. So, don’t call on us ’cause WE AIN’T VOLUNTEERING!!!!!!!!! Editor’s Note: Helen Marie and Phyllis did this as a skit/duet at fun nights at Convention — or at several Conventions — adding paragraphs as the years went by.
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Ω
OMEGA CHAPTER During the period from May 1 to August 31, 2007 the following Tri Sigmas were reported to have entered Omega Chapter. We offer our sympathy to their friends and family and honor them for their lifetime commitment to Tri Sigma. ALPHA Katherine Hundley Greer Lucy Manson Sharpe ZETA Anita Senecal Gottwald Winifred Burley Ward
Alpha Pi Edwina Jean Bialik Alpha Sigma Becky Sue Fitch Kay Henry Patterson
Iota Patricia Sain Smith
Alpha Tau Charlotte Brand Kleb Muriel Jenkins Minard
Mu Marjorie Weist Siglin
Alpha Upsilon Carolyn Morrison Chapman
Nu Maralee Stiles Garrison Shirley Shelton Kendrick
Alpha Phi Marcia Leutheuser Francis
Pi Lori Ann Brooker Neva Irwin Wilcox Rho Martha Harris Kersey Sigma Jefferie Haynes Moore Beulah Kimble Rose Tau Miriam Barnes Warren Chi Lora York Hunt Psi Anne Neale Barret Alpha Gamma Marjorie Frasier Nelson Alpha Zeta Julia King Avant Alpha Nu Frances Farlow Townes Frances Federer Purtill
Alpha Chi Janith Jones Wilson Alpha Psi Emily Greer Gatten Julia Miller Grove Beta Epsilon Mary McCarthy Tierney Beta Mu Julie Cooper Knapp Gamma Eta Mary Krupa Guidry Delta Delta Kay Penny Spruill
Becky Fitch B
ECKY SUE FITCH, Alpha Sigma, age 45, of Louisville, KY, passed away on June 15, 2007, after a two-year battle with colon cancer (see “The Triangle,” page 17, spring 2007 edition). She was devoted to Tri Sigma and her alma mater, the University of Southern Mississippi, and to which pledged lifetime contributions. A beloved and award-winning teacher at Newburg Middle School in Louisville, she relished spending time with friends and family, especially during the Kentucky Derby Festival each spring. Throughout her illness, Fitch strived to raise awareness about the causes and diagnosis of colon cancer, infusing all with whom she came in contact a hearty sense of humor and enthusiasm for life.
Epsilon Sigma Mary Elizabeth Brooks Eta Zeta Katharine Taggart Sturgeon Lisa K. Wellman Memorial gifts may be sent to the Sigma Sigma Sigma Foundation, 225 N. Muhlenberg St., Woodstock, VA 22664.
It is the responsibility of every initiated Sigma to see that the badge she wears is protected and never worn by or in the possession of a non-member. When a Tri Sigma enters Omega Chapter her badge may be buried with her or returned to National Headquarters. The National Treasurer is the official custodian of Sigma Sigma Sigma badges.
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In Memory of
Corrections Corrections It was reported to “The Triangle” in the spring issue (page 31) that Beta Pi celebrated its 60th anniversary. Beta Pi was founded in 1952, and therefore celebrated its 55th in 2007. Alpha Upsilon Sigmas 1961 in the fall Triangle (page 36) have been getting together once a year for the past 46 years, not 35, as reported to “The Triangle.” Our apologies to the writer, Jane G. Marshall, who has definitely not joined Omega Chapter! “The Triangle” received incorrect information that Kathleen Lapour Clower, Alpha Epsilon, entered Omega Chapter in 2005. Kathleen has been engaged in a valiant fight with breast cancer, and remains in battle.
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Sigma
History
1971: The Beginning of the Eighth Decade “A Century of Sisterhood 1898-2001” The Vietnam War receded into history, its full effect to be charted by historians for years to come. Issues continued to be raised, questions asked, answers sought. . .
N
ew causes were championed. Ecology, energy, environment, conservation, and preservation became important issues. Watergate and its breach of honor and integrity shocked a nation that was just beginning to feel good about itself. War’s end brought a sense of peace and security, a revival of optimism. Nostalgia focused a look back at the 50s. On campuses across America, young men and women began to focus with new appreciation on the heritage and tradition of Greek societies.
In Tri Sigma, members affirmed the founding purposes and Declaration of Principles. The Key Alumna program was instituted to provide alumnae more opportunities to gather as Sisters. The national and chapter officer structure was realigned to more effectively serve the membership. The Robbie Page Memorial continued to maintain facilities and play therapy programs at North Carolina Memorial Hospital in Chapel Hill and began assisting with the play therapy program at Cardinal Glennon Hospital in St. Louis,
MO. “Make A Child Smile” became its new theme. National policies on standards, hazing, alcohol, drugs, housemothers, house visitation and hours were adopted. Ritual revisions clarified meaning and facilitated smooth execution of the Triangle Degree. Triennial billing for alumnae was introduced; triennial goals were developed and the sailboat was adopted as a new symbol for Tri Sigma. Joining their Sisters in facing new Sigma challenges were 13 more Delta chapters.
29th CONVENTION June 19–June 24, 1971 – Cosmopolitan Hotel, Denver, Colorado A throng of 300 Tri Sigmas gathered in downtown Denver. Past National President Margaret Freeman Dixon, Sigma, as Convention Chairman, presented the gavel at the opening session to Nelda Francis Crawford, Alpha, Tri Sigma’s first lady. Reports of officers and chairmen personalized Sorority operations by Doris Tabor challenged collegians to examine personal values. offering a glimpse of the real Sigma behind the title. The Panhellenic Luncheon, honoring all NPC Sororities, featured Dr. John Blackburn, Vice Chancellor of the University of Denver, speaking on “Greeks and Community.” Miss Carol Lenahan, Executive Director of Operation Greek, provided a stimulating workshop on rush. In her keynote address, Nelda Crawford declared “... Despite campus unrest, it is an exciting time to grow up and attend college. And, of course, a good time to be a Tri Sigma!” Tri Sigma’s own Dr. Doris Hiles Tabor, Alpha Epsilon, gave a provocative
opening address on “Changeless’ Values in a Changing Society.” Citing the Cox Commission report, “Crisis At Columbia,” published in 1968, Doris related: “The present generation of young people in our universities is the best informed, the most intelligent and the most idealistic this country has ever known. It is also the most sensitive to public issues and the most sophisticated in political tactics. Perhaps because they enjoy the affluence to support their ideals, today’s undergraduate and graduate students exhibit, as a group, a higher level of social conscience than preceding generations. An old American Indian proverb reminds us that ‘this is the first day of the rest of your life.’” Reviewing the triennium, the National President stated that Tri Sigma chapters as a whole had not been plagued with violence; no great crises had been faced. Nine new chapters were added, bringing the total to 75, although total initiations had declined. Nelda was especially pleased with the development of the Future Planning Committee and the Collegiate Advisory Board, both inaugurated during the triennium. She encouraged preservation of the Tri Sigma we have always cherished, saying, “If change must come, let us blend the enthusiasm and optimism of youth with the experience and wisdom of age to
react creatively to any challenge. My prayer for Tri Sigmas is that there never be a compromise on standards and ideals.” Retiring Council officers Nelda Crawford, Elsa Von Ruecau Jones, Iota, and Emily Lewis Lee, Alpha Upsilon, were honored. The Executive Council for the approaching Diamond Jubilee triennium welcomed these Helen Marie Eggert Snyder, Alpha Xi, Seventh National President … a keen new additions: mind … dedicated to youth! President Helen Marie Eggert Snyder, Alpha Xi; Collegiate Secretary Christine Hoto Longyear, Zeta; Alumnae Secretary Margaret Parker Munger, Alpha Tau; and Extension Secretary Margaret Bone Lehr, Kappa. President Helen Marie Snyder opened her first and the final session of this Convention by asking everyone present to clasp hands, forming a circle. “This,” she said to the assembled Sigmas, “is ‘NATIONAL’ ... this is our Sigma Sisterhood!”
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ALPHA HOUSE
Winter 2008
ALPHA HOUSE Look what's new for 2008! We have over 200 items available, so visit www.alphahouse.com to shop! Owned and operated by Paige Wood, Member of Kappa Chapter. If you would like a copy of the new 2007 Sigma Sigma Sigma catalog, request one today! As always, a percentage of every sale is given back to Sigma Sigma Sigma national organization.
11 S. Main St. Oxford OH 45056 (513) 523-8290 (800) 886-2574
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Wear Your Badge With Pride! NPC Badge Day
March 3, 2008 Grow
Give
Lead
Succeed
Co-sponsors: NPC & Herff Jones Greek Division
Badge Day 2008 T
he 26 member organizations of the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) are celebrating International Badge Day March 3, 2008, an annual event during which sorority women everywhere honor their Greek affiliations by wearing their badge or letters. The theme this year is “Wear Your Badge With Pride.� International Badge Day is co-sponsored by Herff Jones Inc. Greek Division.
In addition to wearing your badge on March 3, following are a few ways to celebrate Badge Day: Host a recognition luncheon for sorority leaders and advisors. Contact your campus library to arrange an exhibit about the history of sorority life on campus. Invite your favorite professor to lunch to discuss sorority life and the impact it has made on you. Initiate a chapter discussion about the indented triangle badge and its symbolism. Ask your campus newspaper to write an article about Badge Day. The month before Badge Day, form a committee to develop ways your chapter will celebrate the occasion.
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www.sigmasigmasigma.org
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