The
Triangle of Sigma Sigma Sigma Summer 2009
{
Volunteer Work
{
Empowered Women and
University of Missouri
Eta Chi Installation
for Tri Sigma
{
Change In the Air
Pictured from left: Kelsi Wilcox, Alpha Pi and Chantel DeSloover, Beta Tau
Σ Σ Σ celebrates its
th
100,000 1
T h e T r i a n g l e | Summer 2009
Member
from the president
Let’s Talk Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. — Mark Twain
P
LAURA WARD SWEET Alpha Sigma | National President
Sisters and Friends, Please make “Let’s Talk” a springboard for thinking about Sisterhood; but even more, let these thoughts become a conversation starter between you and your family, friends, chapter, or Panhellenic Sisters that leads to discussions of what could be. There is much to be excited about when talking about Tri Sigma’s future. Engage in bold and courageous conversation. Channel those thoughts into documented goals and take actions that make a difference. As the saying goes, never underestimate what can be done with just a few committed individuals. Within the pages of this magazine, you will be introduced to the Sorority’s proposed new organizational structure. While these thoughts may have once only been ideas a few years ago, real movement is taking place. Organizational change is not the result of one term of office or one person’s efforts, but rather the accumulation of National Officer directions since our founding. We build one success upon another, and this is no exception.
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T h e T r i a n g l e | Summer 2009
Tri Sigma’s Executive Council, Headquarter staff and a committee of volunteers have talked, lived, and dreamed of what could be for our alumnae and collegiate members and chapters if we realign our organizational structure with Sigma’s values, mission, and vision. Our goal is to always provide the best possible support for our membership, from chapter services to volunteer management, programming to expansion, financial strength to recruitment. Every aspect of our organization has been carefully evaluated in making recommendations for a volunteer and staffing change. As you will read, part of the recommended structural change is converting the Executive Council from an operational governance model to a policy governance model. You’ll learn more in the pages that follow. We are also looking to increase the support we provide chapters at the local level as well as provide the necessary staffing to be available on a full-time basis to respond to questions or situations and provide the required timely follow-up. Our Sorority needs women to volunteer at all levels and give of their time, talent, and treasure. We need leaders who will think futuristically but also ensure the best possible
resources and programs are available in the here and now. Tri Sigma has taken many progressive steps in partnering with Phired Up! to use innovative recruitment techniques and with HazingPrevention.org in eradicating hazing, not only from our chapters but from their college communities. A new leadership programming model is in place to provide “just in time” training for officers, leadership skills for emerging leaders, and capstone-style opportunities for seasoned leaders. This model puts Sigma on the cutting edge interfraternally. Tri Sigma is stronger than ever, but we need you to ensure our progress does not end here. Please pay your alumnae dues and make a gift to the Foundation. Get involved on an AAB or volunteer for a special assignment. Attend an extension presentation and show your support for our growth. Participate in alumnae events. Nominate a Sister to serve on the Executive Council. Reconnect with friends through Sigma Connect on our Web site. Don’t sit passively and say, “Remember when?” Take steps to do something for Tri Sigma today! Help us continue our forward progress. Make a difference for our future. Don’t wait…let’s talk about it today!
from the foundation chair
Let’s Talk In my world...
Look over my shoulder and read some of the Foundation e-mails: JAN HORNER Beta Xi | Foundation Chair
Ms. Horner – Both my parents lost their jobs and I need to find scholarship aid. I have a 3.5 average and am a junior. Can the Foundation give me any help?
To the Sigma Sigma Sigma Foundation – The programs at our local children’s hospital will lose significant funding next year, and we are turning to you for help. Are we eligible to apply for a play therapy grant from your RPM Fund?
We received messages like these at a time when our country’s endlessly expanding economy and investments saw great changes. We watched banks tumble, our friends lose jobs, and savings plans fall. The Foundation endowment funds, too, were hit as hard as everyone’s and, although they are slowly climbing back, they are down from their highs of two years ago. Although our investments are safe for the moment, will another crisis develop? Should we be even more conservative to try to preserve our capital for the future Tri Sigma Foundation?
I’ve ever been part of. I know the
The Foundation Board is composed of Tri Sigma Sisters who volunteer their personal time and professional talent to research and recommend cautious choices for our money so the Foundation can carry on our essential programs: awarding scholarships, funding leadership programs, making grants for play therapy/child life. I want to be able to answer the e-mails by saying, “Yes! We can help!”
Foundation helped in funding it,
But that isn’t possible without your help.
and I want you to DO MORE!
The staff and volunteers on the Foundation Board will do all we can to make wise choices, but we need you. Will you give financial support NOW to the Foundation at whatever level is comfortable? Can you assist us by remembering us in your will?
Jan – This workshop was the best
It was that good.
Your response is so essential, especially during times of economic uncertainty. Thank you for saying, “Yes, I can do it!” Sigma always,
Summer 2009 | T h e T r i a n g l e
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7
The
Triangle VOLUME 9, NUMBER 2
Features: 7 Tri Sigma Initiates its 100,000th Member 8 Tri Sigma Housing
Departments: 5 Awards 10 Empowered Women 12 Our Collegians 23 Convention
Mission St atement
24 Our Alumnae 30 Our Foundation
To establish among its
35 Our Leadership
members a perpetual bond of
40 Omega Chapter
friendship, to develop in them strong womanly character, and to impress upon them high standards of conduct.
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Design & Editing
Innova Ideas & Services
Executive Council 2007–2010
Alumnae Editor
Katie Wadington, Epsilon Xi
National President Laura Ward Sweet, Alpha Sigma
Collegiate Editor Jackie Wise, Alpha Chi Features Editor
Hillary Ashton, Zeta Beta
Copy Editors
Katie Wadington, Epsilon Xi Jocelyn Harper, Alpha Beta
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 www.sigmasigmasigma.org
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T h e T r i a n g l e | Summer 2009
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
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. 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 The Triangle subscription. Articles are invited for publication in this magazine. Manuscripts should be submitted to the Editor for consideration. Acceptances are on a contributing basis only and are subject to editorial review. All copies and photos become the property of Sigma Sigma Sigma. Member of National Panhellenic Conference and Fraternity Communications Association. Š 2009 Sigma Sigma Sigma
Individual Awards
awards
Margaret Freeman Everett Outstanding Senior Award The Margaret Freeman Everett Outstanding Senior Award is named for a member of Sigma chapter at Western State College in Gunnison, CO. Dubbed “Dixie” by Mabel Lee Walton, Margaret was small in stature but a giant in spirit. She was the 1939 Honor Initiate at the Colorado Springs National Convention. She was known to work hard as a collegian, holding a number of chapter offices, including President. Her experience as a collegian prepared her for volunteer work as a Tri Sigma alumna. Margaret began her National Officer service as the Exchange Editor in 1946. She was elected our fifth National President in 1956. During her tenure, she expanded the Robbie Page Memorial and helped to secure our National Headquarters. Margaret felt that time was precious to college women and was concerned that young women eliminate non-essential activities from chapter schedules. She stressed that the gift of friendship should be a primary concern. The candidate for this award must be a senior class member with acceptable academic achievement and have exhibited outstanding contributions and service to Tri Sigma. She should be devoted to Tri Sigma and to the joy of friendship. The 2008-2009 Margaret Freeman Everett Outstanding Senior Award winner is Lindsay Maggio, Alpha Zeta. Lindsay
earned her degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing. She was an outstanding student, maintaining academic excellence while serving Alpha Zeta and Northwestern State University in a multitude of ways. Lindsay was the Recruitment Director, served on Honor Council, was involved in Panhellenic, and held many chairmanships during her collegiate days as a Tri Sigma. She also served as an advocate for Greek unity in coordinating and promoting diverse events, which drew the attention of the campus community. As Vice President of the Student Activities Board, she was responsible for planning and coordinating special events on campus. Lindsay was an outstanding leader in the Greek community while also implementing new ideas to improve the recruitment process for Alpha Zeta. She restructured the chapter’s efficiency system and created effective incentives to encourage membership retention and participation.
Here’s to you, Lindsay! Congratulations! You are an Outstanding Senior and we thank you for your dedication and commitment to Tri Sigma. Congratulations may be sent to Lindsay at the following address:
Lindsay Maggio 4643 Highway 3278 Natchitoches, LA 71457
Steadfast Alumna Award The term “steadfast” is a fitting tribute to one alumna annually. Since the 1962 National Convention, one alumna has been selected for this award. The winner has demonstrated loyalty and has exemplified unchanging virtues in her own character. Tri Sigma’s continuing strength comes from the fine examples of these recipients. This award winner must have demonstrated loyalty and devotion to Tri Sigma through 25 or more years of service as an alumna. Additionally, she has paid annual alumnae dues since becoming an alumna, or paid lifetime dues, and has been a Foundation contributor. She is also a current member of an alumnae chapter in her area (if one exists). The 2008-2009 recipient of the Steadfast Alumna Award is Caroljoan Havlik Donovan, Beta Lambda and Long Beach Alumnae Chapter member. Caroljoan, fondly known as “Cj”, has been a member of the Long Beach Alumnae Chapter for over two decades and before that was involved with the Milwaukee Alumnae Chapter. Cj has served in various alumnae chapter posi-
tions including President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, and Panhellenic Representative. She has also served the National Organization on the Foundation Board, in the Membership Development Department and also as an Alumnae Advisory Board (AAB) member. Cj has attended nine conventions and has been a proud recipient of the Golden Violet award. Philanthropic activities are dear to Cj’s heart as she participates in a variety of projects associated with the Miller Children’s Hospital of Long Beach. On National Philanthropy Day, Sigma Sigma Sigma will be recognized as an active participant and supporter of Miller Children’s Hospital for which Cj Donovan deserves much credit.
She is an inspiration and has proven to be steadfast in every way! You can send congratulations to Cj at the following address:
Caroljoan Donovan 28536 Vista Madera Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 Summer 2009 | T h e T r i a n g l e
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awards
Emily Gates Alumna Achievement Award Established in 1938, this highest alumnae award is presented annually to an alumna who has been an outstanding business or professional woman or contributor to her community’s welfare and progress. The Sigma who is commemorated with this award was a charter member of the Zeta Chapter. Active in all Zeta affairs, Emily Gates served her chapter as its Vice President and President and was the Buffalo Alumnae Chapter delegate to the 1929 Santa Fe National Convention. Emily Gates gave unselfish devotion to all of her work. She continued her interest in Tri Sigma, having frequent appointments from the Executive Council.
Congrat ulat ions! Congratulations to the following chapters, which received Accreditation Status in 2008
The Accreditation Program is a national program that outlines the minimum standards and expectations for collegiate chapters. Guidelines for performance include membership selection, financial stability, ritual and values, Sisterhood and group life, campus and chapter leadership, member development, philanthropy, scholarship, chapter organization, and Panhellenic participation.
Accredited
Since the first award was presented in 1938, the winners have been selected from many fields including music, literacy, business, education, theater, civic enterprise, politics, medicine, personal management, and research. The Emily Gates Alumna Achievement Award for 2008-2009 is awarded to Karen Leo, Omicron and Western Wayne-Washtenaw Alumnae Chapter. She is being recognized as an alumna who has made outstanding contributions in the field of education and in her commitment to various philanthropic efforts devoted to children. Karen has been a leader, coach, and coordinator for “Destination Imagination” programs since 1992. These programs offer tournament style creative problem-solving competitions where youth participate on local, state, and global levels. She also serves as a mentor to children through the ‘Chatterton’ MS Mentoring Program and volunteers her time for HOSTS (Help One Student to Succeed) where children receive assistance to improve reading skills. Karen also helps promote the Red Robin U-ACT Champion Program. This program encourages student to be kind to others while working toward eliminating negative behavior among students. Professionally, Karen has been a leader in providing programs for fellow teachers and other psychologists. She was elected to serve on her school district’s Continuous Monitoring System and was the district’s liaison to the state of Michigan. She has continually provided training and in-service workshops for staff on special education laws, test administration, etc. Karen also has provided support, training, and mentoring to new teachers while also spending summers in the classroom educating students through a variety of programs on various levels ranging from gifted to remedial. Karen is an inspiration in her unselfish devotion and commitment to helping children learn.
Thanks, Karen, for making a difference in the lives of many children! Congratulations may be sent to her at the following address:
Karen Leo 47403 Stephanie Drive Macomb, MI 48044 6 T h e T r i a n g l e | Summer 2009
Region
Chapter Name
3 19 23
Beta Alpha Epsilon Kappa Epsilon Omicron
Accredited with Honors Region
Chapter Name
Region
Chapter Name
10 23 22 22 23 23 23 22 23 10 9 18 15 23 23 19 23 23 17 10 9 11 6 12 7 12 6 22 23 11
Alpha Alpha Alpha Alpha Chi Alpha Iota Alpha Kappa Alpha Phi Alpha Pi Alpha Psi Alpha Rho Alpha Theta Alpha Upsilon Alpha Xi Alpha Zeta Beta Delta Beta Epsilon Beta Pi Beta Tau Beta Theta Chi Delta Beta Delta Chi Delta Delta Delta Omicron Delta Pi Delta Psi Delta Theta Delta Upsilon Epsilon Beta Epsilon Delta Epsilon Nu
11 12 19 13 22 13 22 22 23 3 17 13 22 22 19 2 15 18 23 11 24 22 23 17 3 18 22 10 20
Epsilon Phi Epsilon Pi Epsilon Rho Epsilon Theta Eta Alpha Eta Beta Eta Eta Eta Kappa Eta Lambda Eta Nu Eta Pi Eta Rho Eta Sigma Eta Tau Eta Theta Eta Upsilon Gamma Mu Gamma Phi Gamma Rho Gamma Xi Lambda Nu Omicron Pi Zeta Alpha Zeta Eta Zeta Gamma Zeta Pi Zeta Theta
feature
Tri Sigma Reaches Important Milestone
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Tri Sigma has reason to celebrate! On November 22, 2008, Beta Tau Chapter at the University of DetroitMercy initiated the Sorority’s 100,000th member, Chantel Christine DeSloover. Chantel is a freshman nursing major from Roseville, MI. When asked why she joined Tri Sigma, Chantel said, “I didn’t have many close friends in high school and growing up I never had one ‘best friend.’ I wanted to find that in college, so I joined Tri Sigma. I feel that the members in my new member class, as well as many of the chapter Sisters, are now ALL my best friends. I also wanted to be a part of something here at the university and found Tri Sigma as that missing link in my college experience.” Kelsi Wilcox, Alpha Pi and Leadership Consultant for 2008-2009, was on hand to present Chantel with greetings from Executive Council and a certificate of appreciation. Chantel will also have her lifetime alumnae dues paid by the National Organization.
When asked what her favorite memory of Tri Sigma is, Chantel said, “I was just initiated on November 22, so my Tri Sigma experience is just getting started. But, I’d have to say my favorite memory so far is Inspiration Week; learning about our core values and growing very close to my new member class right before Initiation and Initiation Weekend.” Beta Tau has reason to celebrate, as well. The chapter was installed in 1953 from a local sorority, Delta Pi Delta, which had only 12 members. Some of those members petitioned Executive Council for a charter. A few months later, Delta Pi Delta became Beta Tau and grew to 24 members. Installation was performed by National President Nelda Francis Crawford and Mabel Lee Walton, who was Advisory Board Chairman at the time. Today, Beta Tau has approximately 40 members and was Accredited with Honors in 2008.
In addition to these two milestones, Tri Sigma celebrated many other great accomplishments in 2008, including: • The Alpha Omicron chapter at the University of Central Arkansas was redeveloped. • The largest colony in Tri Sigma’s history was chartered as our Eta Chi Chapter at the University of Missouri – Columbia. • Pratt Institute was installed as our Eta Phi Chapter. • The Tri Sigma Web site, at www.sigmasigmasigma.org, was relaunched.
Congratulations, Chantel DeSloover, Beta Tau and all Sigma Sigma Sigma members! Pictured (from left): Lauren Leow, Erin Kobosky, Eileen DiSante, Chantel DeSloover, Dana Juhlin, Thea Ante, Kelly Charrette
Summer S Su um u mm me mer er 20 er 2 2009 00 09 9 | The Tr i a n g l e
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feature
ΣΣΣ
Housing
Sigma chapters with houses experience an added dimension of Sisterhood. The chapter house provides a gathering place to connect several times during the day with other Sisters.
M
Many alumnae will tell you that when they return to
from the chapter. These volunteers are charged
their collegiate chapter and walk through the doors
to supervise the house staff, if there is one, to
of the house, it is the feeling of going home. Even
maintain the house, and to manage the monies
the smell will evoke fond memories of late-night
of the House Corporation. The goal of the House
chats, crying, and laughing over life’s events and
Corporation is to ensure that the house will be there
opportunities to form lasting bonds of Sisterhood.
for the alumnae who return to visit, for the Sisters
With this opportunity comes a large, added responsibility for the chapter. The house must be occupied. It is a challenge to make the house attractive for
who are currently using the house, and for those women who will become new members in the years to come.
the women to live in. Tri Sigma housing policies
In this issue of The Triangle, the Housing Department
and insurance restrictions mandate that there be no
is pleased to highlight the Alpha Phi Chapter House
alcohol, no smoking, and no men except in common
at Central Michigan University.
areas. The house must be maintained both aesthetically and structurally. Often, the funds to maintain the house are limited, just as with privately-owned houses. There is always the struggle between where the chapter would like to direct funds and where the House Corporation feels the funds should be spent to maintain the structure. Each chapter house is served by a House Corporation
There are many chapters who have Housing Advisor needs. If you are alumna and would like to serve a chapter through Housing, please fill out a Volunteer Services Application found on the Sigma Web site.
Ever Forward, Barbara Bonapfel, Rho Housing Director
comprised of a president, treasurer, secretary, and members at large, which include a representative
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T h e T r i a n g l e | Summer 2009
Anne Monroe, Alpha Phi Housing Coordinator
Alpha Phi
Alpha Phi Chapter House Central Michigan University • Mount Pleasant, MI “Being a part of the planning and seeing the reconstruction of the Sigma Sigma Sigma house through to completion was a dream come true,” said Millie Diget, Alpha Phi House Corporation President.
History
The Alpha Phi chapter house has gone through some major changes in the last decade. During 2001-2002, much time was spent with an architect and interior design team to develop the plans for a complete renovation of the house. Renovations took place during 2002-2003. The original house was over 100 years old. The Alpha Phi House Corporation was established in 1987. The Corporation leased the house with the option to buy on a 10-year lease. Ten years later, the House Corporation purchased the house on a land contract, and in 2000, the Corporation converted to a regular mortgage and paid off the land contract. Renovations and Updates The dedication of the new Alpha Phi chapter house was held at Homecoming 2003. The chapter celebrated the fifth anniversary of the house renovations at Homecoming 2008. Renovations to the house included: • Gutting the house down to the studs and installing all new wiring, plumbing, and central heating and air conditioning. • Restoring the ceilings in the main rooms downstairs back to their original 10-foot ceilings. • Adding a computer/study room, a third bathroom, a sixth bedroom, a front porch and large front entryway, a handicap accessible side entrance, and a large mudroom. • All of the furnishings were done in Mission style. While reroofing, it was discovered there had been a fire years ago and the rafters were charred. To meet current building code all rafters were removed and replaced with trusses; this provided a large storage area in the attic.
Renovations were made possible through refinancing at the bank, a loan from the National Loyalty Fund, chapter fundraisers, and the generous donations of many alumnae. House Events Twelve women live in the house but it is enjoyed by the entire chapter for many events, and as a place to gather and hang out with Sisters. Events held at the house include Homecoming brunch for alumnae, recruitment events, Bid Day pizza party, Sisterhood activities, the annual fall barbecue (which is a fundraiser for the Tri Sigma Foundation) and chapter retreats. “Our chapter is blessed with the opportunity to have a housing facility such as ours. It is a modern residence with a small home town feel,” says Amanda Tomasik, Alpha Phi. “Sisters spend countless hours and gain lifelong memories in the Alpha Phi household. It truly serves as an ideal home to all 78 women in our chapter.” The Sisters living in the house also have a Thanksgiving dinner and decorate the house and holiday tree before they go home for Thanksgiving weekend.
By living in our chapter house this year, I have become closer to my Sisters than I ever thought possible. Having movie nights together or making dinner for each other helps my roommates feel even more like family. —Jessica Parker, Alpha Phi Summer 2009 | T h e T r i a n g l e
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Empowered p Womenn What is an “Empowered Woman?” In past issues, I’ve interviewed women who exemplify the character of a Tri Sigma woman – conduct, character, and friendship. This character is conveyed in the way she leads her life both professionally and personally. When we take our vows to heart, we all become empowered. We strive to higher grounds where we succeed professionally. We find harmony in our hearts by keeping our family and friends close to our hearts. We remain young by looking for the next great adventure as we move through our lives, ever forward.
When the topic of volunteerism came about for the current issue, it was overwhelming how many of our Sisters are truly empowering others through their own good deeds. I could have easily filled an entire issue of The Triangle with your stories of volunteerism. My hope is that you are inspired by a few of the stories we have chosen to share. I hope you enjoy these articles as much as I have enjoyed writing them. It is an honor and a pleasure to spend time getting to know these inspiring Sisters better. If you have any suggestions for women you view as Empowered Women, please feel free to contact me. Ever Forward, Sherri Ballard, Alpha Nu • sherriballard@sbcglobal.net
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A Heart and Soul Volunteer It would take 30 minutes to read the list of volunteer activities in which Stacey Arnos Cullerton, Epsilon Omicron, is involved. Whether she is helping at her sons’ schools, participating in the Race for the Cure, or involved in the Junior Women’s Club, Stacey gives her heart and soul. Stacey jokes that the family calendar resembles a flow chart. “It has forced me to become a more organized person,” she explains. “Sometimes my husband and I have to negotiate things, but it works out.”
other people when she first moved to Villa Park, IL, where she didn’t know anyone. Since she’s always been involved in volunteering, she knew that would be a good way to make friends. “It just kind of took off from there,” says Stacey.
“I wouldn’t be half the person I am if I didn’t help others. It’s who I am.”
Family support has also made it possible, and volunteering is a family activity. Whether she is helping with one of her husband’s projects or he is helping with hers, their three sons are often included. They have cleared tables at the Lions pancake breakfast. They’ve all participated in the Race for the Cure to raise money for cancer. She feels it is important to involve them at an early age and hopes to raise them to be civic-minded citizens who give back twice as much as they receive.
Villa Park has become her home. As a member of the Junior Women’s League, she has coordinated Secret Santa deliveries for children who otherwise may not have had a Christmas. She is a member of the committee of people who brought Summerfest back to Villa Park after a decade of absence. She’s helped to build a safe, family-friendly community in which to raise her family.
One of her greatest passions is supporting children. With three young boys ages 5, 6, and 8, Stacey has plenty of opportunities to support her sons’ schools. By chairing Catholic Schools Week, she helps educate others about the system. As class parent, she gets to spend additional time with each son in their own classes. She sees this as important because children are the future.
Stacey has advice for people who may want to volunteer but are unsure where to start. First, find an issue you are passionate When friends remark that Stacey should slow down or learn about. If you are proud of what you’re doing, you will be more how to say ‘no,’ she just smiles. “I wouldn’t be half the person committed. Next, don’t be afraid to attend a meeting and see if I am if I didn’t help others. It’s who I am,” Stacey explains. the organization is a good fit for you. Finally, just do something She says she thinks the key is to be involved in things you are local. If you start locally in caring for your community, it will passionate about. eventually make a global difference. The smallest thing will make the greatest impact on the life of another. Stacey’s efforts make Volunteering is about making the world around us a better a big difference in the lives of others. She hopes others think place. Stacey also found it to be a good way to connect with with their hearts as well.
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Volunteerism and Philanthropy with a Personal Connection
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Tracey O’Shields Mitchell, Gamma Xi, supports the Robbie Page Memorial Playroom not only because she is a loyal Tri Sigma, but also for the personal impact it had on her life as a small girl. Tracey’s memories of the RPM Playroom started long before she became a Tri Sigma. While her brother was a patient at University of North Carolina Hospital undergoing several brain surgeries and procedures, the playroom was a safe place for them to play with one another.
When Tracey came to Wilson to attend Barton College in 1993, she never left. As a member of the Barton College Alumnae Board, serving as the Greek Council Chairman and the Chapter Advisor to Gamma Xi, she has remained an active part of the college. She has seen the results of being a positive role model to collegians. She has won Greek Advisor of the Year twice and has been nominated once again. She is proud when the collegiate women she advised want to give back and remain active alumnae. Four of the Alumnae Advisory Board members at Gamma Xi are women whom she advised when they were collegiate members.
When Tracey went to Barton College, she lived on the same floor as the Tri Sigmas. After noticing the signs for the Robbie Page Memorial Playroom, she mentioned that she had been there. It was as if she was destined to be a Tri Sigma. Once she met the people who Pictured from Left to Right: Savannah Fulton, Gamma Xi; had raised the money to Amber Hudgins, Gamma Xi; Tracy Mitchell, Chapter Advisor; Heather Baker, Scholarship Advisor; Catherine Manning, build the playroom, she Gamma Xi and Jennifer Moore, Gamma Xi, RPM chair. understood what philanthropy was. This special bond with RPM and her Sisterhood is a major reason she remains active today.
“[Parents] meet us as sorority women and realize there are women across the nation Today, Tracey has the oppor- supporting their children.” tunity to visit the Robbie Page Memorial Playroom at the N.C. Children’s Hospital nearly four times a year. She visits with the women of Gamma Xi, where she has served as their Chapter Advisor for the past 10 years. She also visits the RPM Playroom with the Eastern North Carolina Alumnae Chapter. She loves to take people there for the first time and witness their reaction. In addition to playing with the children, she often interacts with the parents. She finds it rewarding to share her own story and give them a sense of hope. “It is interesting to see their reactions when they meet us as sorority women and realize there are women across the nation supporting their children,” Tracey explains.
In addition to Tri Sigma, there are many other ways in which Tracey serves others. As a past president of the Wilson’s Junior Women’s League, she has helped support local charities like the women’s crisis center. She spends time helping as the class parent in her son Ethan’s room at New Hope Elementary as well. Staying active at her church with her husband is another important aspect of her life.
In supporting her brother, the Special Olympics of North Carolina has become something near and dear to her heart. She serves as her brother’s mentor, traveling and supporting him at events. Last June, Tracey sponsored a golf tournament in memory of her father because he had always supported the Special Olympics. They were able to raise more than $4,000 for the Special Olympics of Wake County, NC. Tracey remembers her father’s inspiration, “Although I learned how to be a loving, giving and sharing Tri Sigma, those values were instilled in me my whole life by my dad, who always made time for others.”
Summer 2009 | T h e T r i a n g l e
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our collegians
Collegiate News Alpha Sisters gather around the Memorial Rock for Todd Miller during the Todd Miller Memorial Rugby Tournament.
Sisters from Chi Chapter, as well as other participants, model prom dresses in the Ali Kemp Fashion Show
Alpha – Longwood University, Farmville, VA
Chi – Pittsburg State University, Pittsburg, KS
Alpha Chapter recently partnered with the Longwood Rugby men’s and women’s teams to host the Todd Miller Memorial Rugby Tournament. The tournament honors the life of Todd Miller, who passed away after sustaining an injury during a rugby game, and also raises money and awareness for two organizations. The first is Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, from which Miller had benefitted greatly during his life. Money raised will go toward a scholarship fund, started by Miller’s mother, that will help a child involved in the organization achieve his or her dream of higher education. Additionally, Miller was passionate about organ donation and proceeds will also benefit LifeNet, a National Organ Donation Organization.
Chi Chapter teamed up with the Brothers of Sigma Phi Epsilon to host the Ali Kemp Prom Fashion Show. The show was modeled after The Ali Kemp Fashion Show in Kansas City. It was started by a Chi Chapter Sister and raises money for T.A.K.E., the Ali Kemp Educational Foundation, which was founded in honor of murder victim Ali Kemp.
Catherine Sansbury, Alpha, one of the key organizers of this event, said she chose this as the Alpha Chapter’s big service project because “I was really good friends with Todd and I feel this was a good way to honor him.” She also noted that “this money will help further our ideals of scholarship and serving children.”
Part of the Ali Kemp Educational Foundation’s mission includes increasing women’s safety awareness and encouraging volunteerism. The organization hosts high-quality reality-based self-defense training to women and girls at little or no cost. The foundation has helped 35,000 women learn to protect themselves.
The members of Chi Chapter were models in the fashion show and were also featured in its promotional materials and TV commercials. The event raised $450 for T.A.K.E. and provided 25 women with a free self-defense class. Chi Chapter and Sigma Phi Epsilon both feel personally connected to this organization and hope to make the Ali Kemp Prom Fashion Show an annual event.
Sisters worked throughout the tournament selling concessions and commemorative tournament T-shirts, and asking spectators for donations. The chapter raised over $2,500, and members plan to make this an annual event. Nicole North, Alpha, the co-organizer of this event, echoed Sansbury’s sentiments and added that, “We cannot wait to help run the tournament again next year as an annual event.” Lambda – Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Indiana, PA The women of Lambda Chapter have recently worked on many volunteer projects to benefit our philanthropy. A campuswide children’s book drive has brought our Sorority, the campus, and the community closer together. Sisters have asked the campus and community to donate new and used children’s books to this fundraiser. A small committee separated the books and is distributing them throughout the community to children in hospitals and local day care centers whose funding has been cut. While distributing the books, these women will have the chance to bond with the children, reading to them from some of the books.
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(L-R) Sarah Blankenbleckler, Katy Mong, Tiffiany Frye, Lisa Sauro, and Joanna Jenkins from Beta Delta Chapter.
Beta Delta – Shepherd University, Shepherdstown, WV You will often find Sisters from Beta Delta Chapter volunteering their time to help children. During the previous semester, the chapter held a book drive to collect children’s books for Berkley County Public Schools. These books were used as door prizes for Dr. Seuss Family Night. They also held another book drive
to help a family who lost a child from SIDS. Beta Delta also went to Tuscarora Elementary School in Martinsburg, WV, on March 2 for Read Across America Day, where they read Dr. Seuss books to children in grades K-5. Sisters also worked a family carnival at the school that promoted family exercise, health, and well-being. Sisters also volunteer with other causes, including donating over $200 of animal care supplies to the Berkley County Animal Shelter. Beta Delta also held a T-shirt auction for local churches and entered teams into their local Relay for Life walk. Fall semester service projects include a campus cleanup, a school supply drive, an activity day at a local Nursing Home, and a pet talent show.
Liddi Bonvillain, Jaclyn Haydel, Anna Rodrigue, and Janee Rogers, Gamma Pi, in their box at the sleep-in-a-box fundraiser for Maggie’s Heart.
Beta Tau Chapter raised the highest amount of money for an individual or campus organization at a recent Breast Cancer Walk.
Beta Tau – University of Detroit Mercy, Detroit, MI Beta Tau members pride themselves on emphasizing community service within their chapter. During the previous school year Beta Tau Sisters participated in various projects, including a campus cleanup, installing fire alarms in local Detroit, MI, homes and working at Zoo Boo, a Halloween trick-or-treat program at the Detroit Zoo.
The chapter has adopted a local charity called Maggie’s Heart. Maggie Wilson, who was born with a rare heart disease, is the daughter of Gamma Pi Chapter alumna Vanessa Wilson. Sisters began fundraising to help alleviate the cost of Maggie’s medical bills and volunteered at a fundraising benefit held in New Orleans. Gamma Pi introduced Maggie’s Heart to potential new members during recruitment by having them plant sunflower seeds during philanthropy night. These sunflowers were allowed to grow and then sold to raise money for Maggie’s Heart. Sisters also organized a sleep-in-a-box fundraiser and involved all the Panhellenic sororities on campus. Sorority chapters gathered in a gym at Nicholls State University for the event, where they decorated large boxes and prizes were given out for the most creative. The event raised $500 for Maggie’s Heart. Ellen Kennedy, Gamma Pi chapter collegian, summed up the experience of helping Maggie by saying, “Helping a Sigma alumna’s child shows that we are all Sisters for life!”
One event that stands out for Beta Tau was participating in a campus-sponsored Breast Cancer Walk. The Student Programming Board at the University of Detroit Mercy held a walk for breast cancer at the campus gym. Beta Tau challenged Sisters to raise as much money as possible for the cause. The Chapter raised $600, which was the highest amount raised by any individual or organization on campus. In addition, they had 75 percent of the chapter participating in the actual walk throughout the day. In recognition of Beta Tau’s efforts, the Student Programming Board has offered to sponsor their next on-campus event. Beta Tau was delighted to raise the most money for such a great cause and is looking forward to participating next year. Gamma Pi – Nicholls State University, Thibodaux, LA Volunteering extends beyond the sorority for Gamma Pi, as members individually participate in dozens of programs. Sisters are involved with projects such as tutoring, babysitting, blood drives, nursing homes, hurricane restoration projects, sponsoring children in other countries, mission trips, volunteering for “Extreme Home Makeover,” and forming and coaching community dance teams, to name a few. Capitalizing on the desire of Gamma Pi members to make a difference has become the goal of the chapter over the last few years.
Delta Delta participated in a Dance Marathon, raising $5,950 for the North Carolina Children’s Hospital.
Delta Delta – The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC Twenty Sisters from Delta Delta Chapter participated in the 11th annual UNC Dance Marathon. The marathon is a yearlong fundraising event that ends with a 24-hour dance marathon, Summer 2009 | T h e T r i a n g l e
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Collegiate News, Continued which benefits the N.C. Children’s Hospital. The money raised is distributed to families who need help paying their mortgage, car payment, or buying food. Delta Delta Chapter is happy to report that Tri Sigma was recognized at the marathon for raising the fourth highest amount of money (the second highest of any Greek organization): $5,950! These funds benefit the children who visit the Robbie Page Memorial Playroom, which Delta Delta Chapter Sisters visit regularly.
Epsilon Chi also participates in service days organized by the Greek community at Northeastern University. Notable activities include making cards for children graduating “Jumpstart,” cleaning up surrounding parks and helping out with children’s day at the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Over the summer, the chapter plans to walk in Relay for Life an event by the American Cancer Society. Members will also team up with local fraternity, Beta Gamma Upsilon, in a walk for Boston Area Rape Crisis Center. Zeta Epsilon – Florida International University, Miami, FL Zeta Epsilon participates in several philanthropic events both at the university and community levels. A committee of hardworking Sisters devoted their spring break to volunteering at the children’s hospital in Texas, while Sisters back home in Miami participated in Relay for Life, the Autism Speaks Miami Walk Now for Autism, and Dance Marathon.
Sisters from Epsilon Kappa braved a Wisconsin blizzard to take part in the Polar Plunge to raise money for Special Olympics.
Epsilon Kappa – University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Oshkosh, WI Eight members of Epsilon Kappa Chapter braved the frigid waters of Lake Winnebago for the annual Polar Plunge benefiting Special Olympics. The jump took place February 21, 2009, in the middle of a Wisconsin blizzard. Clad in bathing suits and Sigma letters, Sisters jumped into the ice-cold water for the purpose of raising funds for Special Olympics. Not to worry, everyone survived in good health and the event was a great success.
During the week of spring break, five Zeta Epsilon Sisters volunteered at the Children’s Medical Center in Dallas, TX. Anastasia Richardson, Denise Ortiz, Francheska Locheart, Jackie Gonzalez, and Judy Barret all had a great experience interacting with hospitalized children by making crafts with them. Helping the children have a wonderful time, despite their difficulties, is an experience that will remain with them for the rest of their lives. Zeta Epsilon Sister Denise Ortiz, was previously involved with Autism Speaks, in honor of her brother, but this year made it a chapterwide event. The chapter helped raise awareness and funds, which totaled $430,000, at the Walk Now for Autism. Sisters also spent 25 hours on their feet in a Dance Marathon benefiting the Children’s Miracle Network. At the end of marathon, one Sister, Nallym Bravo, was named Dancer of the Year and received the honor of helping to reveal the total amount that the Dance Marathon raised: $137,000! Zeta Pi – Virginia Wesleyan College, Norfolk, VA With more and more Americans “going green,” Zeta Pi has taken the opportunity to appoint chairperson, Lindsey Sigafoos, as their Going Green Coordinator. Lindsey started the movement because she is passionate about recycling and wanted the chapter to start doing their part. Lindsey enthusiastically got Sisters excited about the idea and now shares a going green tip of the week at every meeting. She has worked with the community service office on campus and has gotten Zeta Pi involved in campus cleanup efforts.
Epsilon Chi Sisters Jaime Fitzpatrick, Abby Huhtala, Alicia Michaud, and Christina Wong volunteer at a Boston soup kitchen.
Epsilon Chi – Northeastern University, Boston, MA Sisters of Epsilon Chi Chapter participate in a variety of community service and volunteer opportunities. Members volunteer at several soup kitchens, including Boston Rescue Mission in downtown Boston and at the Pine Street Inn in Dorchester, MA.
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In an effort to spread the green idea, the chapter organized a Recycling War. They challenged a fraternity on campus to a contest to see who could recycle the most in one week. At end of each day, both groups brought their recycling to the community service office to be weighed. By the end of the week, Zeta Pi had won the contest by collecting more than 50 pounds of materials for recycling. The event was such a success, the chapter is working to expand it to an all-Greek activity for next year.
Following Zeta Pi’s lead, the Student Activities office at Virginia Weslyan has encouraged all clubs and organizations to appoint a Going Green Coordinator.
Eta Beta Sisters spend time playing bingo with residents from J.F. Hawkins nursing home.
Eta Kappa – Texas Woman’s University, Denton, TX Lindsey Roland, Kate Rouleau, and Nicoletta Amato, Zeta Upsilon, visiting the Play Atrium.
Zeta Upsilon – Fitchburg State College, Fitchburg, MA Zeta Upsilon Chapter enjoys participating in community service, both on and off campus. Sisters help out with a food drive at Fitchburg State College, volunteer at local nursing homes, and raise awareness for women’s issues. This past year, Zeta Upsilon reached out beyond their community by teaming up with the Epsilon Chi C hapter at Northeastern University in Boston. Zeta Upsilon Sisters participate in the Making Strides for Breast Cancer Walk in Boston each year. Making Strides is a fivemile walk that raises money and awareness for breast cancer research. This year, Zeta Upsilon teamed up with Epsilon Chi Chapter. The chapters worked together to raise money and had the opportunity to meet Sisters and build new relationships. It was a great opportunity for Zeta Upsilon and Epsilon Chi to show how Tri Sigmas can come together to help others.
Sister Marianna Anaya has been a role model to her Tri Sigma Sisters this year by participating in “The Vagina Monologues.” A native of New Mexico, Marianna has brought dedication and passion to her Texan Sisters by acting in this year’s production of “The Vagina Monologues” at the University of North Texas, and fighting violence against women through the V-day Movement. Marianna not only gave her voice to ending violence in the play, but she is also an avid participant in peaceful protests for the cause of equal rights. She is a strong and beautiful Sister who has taught her Eta Kappa Sisters the importance of being true to oneself and using ones voice to stand up for others.
Zeta Psi – The College of New Jersey, Ewing, NJ Volunteerism is of high importance to all Sisters of Zeta Psi Chapter. Sister Jenna Meyerberg volunteered her summer working with hospice patients and their families. She visited patients both in their homes and in nursing facilities, helping them and their families through her compassionate support. She also co-facilitated a support group for women who had lost their mothers, donating over 160 hours of her time. She now volunteers for a local crisis and suicide hotline, donating 10 hours a week toward giving back to her community.
Sisters from Eta Xi spend their spring break working at the Miami Habitat for Humanity excursion. (Top Row, L-R) Holly Brizell, Erica Scott, (Bottom Row, Middle) Lucille McNamara with other workers at the Miami Habitat for Humanity excursion.
Eta Beta – Newberry College, Newberry, SC
Eta Xi – Ursinus College, Collegeville, PA
Taking part in a variety of service projects is important to Sisters of Eta Beta, but every year one of those projects will stand out for members of the Chapter. Bringing something a little different to the Chapters volunteer projects, Sister Jennifer Keffer organized a visit to a local nursing home, J.F. Hawkins. Sisters helped residents during bingo and spent quality time with them. Sisters came equipped with candy and smiling faces, ready to brighten up the residents’ days. Another trip to J.F. Hawkins is being organized along with other service projects, such as Adopt-A-Highway and Meals on Wheels.
Throughout last year, Sisters of the Eta Xi Chapter strove to improve their chapter’s integrity and better the world at large through volunteering. Sisters Ashley O’ Connell, Holly Brizell, Lindsay Budnick, and Erica Scott implemented the Ursinus installment of the V-Day Campaign, a global movement to stop violence against women and girls. Through the assistance of other campus organizations, Sisters helped raise money for The Laurel House and women in Democratic Republic of Congo through various fundraisers and a performance of “The Vagina Monologues.” Summer 2009 | T h e T r i a n g l e
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Collegiate News, Continued Several times each month, Sisters also visit the residents of the Columbia Cottage retirement home. While there, they helped to brighten the experiences of the residents by conversing with them about their vibrant pasts over games of bingo. Sisters also visited Mississippi and Florida during spring break to build houses with Habitat for Humanity.
The fashion show required contestants to wear their favorite Halloween costumes and walk the runway. With Touch-NGo Productions, Eta Tau provided their fellow students with a real fashion show experience. The night began with Eta Tau Sisters taking the catwalk dressed in pirate attire, followed by over 60 women from Embry-Riddle, who took the stage in various costumes ranging from Lara Croft Tomb Raider to Sarah Palin. Over 300 students attended the event and the chapter raised over $500 for their other charity projects such as Relay for Life, the local Halifax Hospital, and Soldier’s Angels.
Eta Pi Chapter uses community service, like volunteering at the Children’s Hospital, to also help with recruitment.
Eta Pi – Metropolitan State College of Denver, Denver, CO In an attempt to overcome the challenge of recruitment on a mostly commuter campus, Eta Pi has begun holding more Continuous Open Recruitment (COR) events. Sisters felt it was important to integrate COR events with volunteer efforts as well. The chapter holds one COR per month that doubles as a community service event. Volunteering with potential new members gave the chapter the opportunity to get to know these women better and also explain how Tri Sigma adds to their lives. Service projects include visiting the Ronald McDonald House, where out-of-state families whose children are in the hospital for an extended time can stay for little or no cost. Sisters helped clean the facility and were unexpectedly invited to a little boy’s 1st birthday celebration. Sisters ate cake, sang, and laughed with the family as Emmett celebrated his birthday. Eta Pi has enjoyed putting in more time volunteering and recruiting new women as they go, and the strategy seems to be working well as they have new interest every week. Eta Tau – Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona Beach, FL Sisters from Eta Tau were searching for a new campus event to help them raise money for their local service projects and set them apart on campus. As a result, they created Tri Sigma’s first Halloween Fashion Show. The fashion show, which Caitlynn Watson, Rachel was held October 29, was open to all women on campus Peterson, Lizie Yance, Eta Tau, rock the runway in their and promoted female pride. Tri Sigma costumes.
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Sara Elizabeth Veazey, Lauren Corinne Huggins, Jessie Rossiello display the sign they helped a young girl paint at Lynchburg Grows.
Eta Upsilon – Lynchburg College, Lynchburg, VA This past year, Eta Upsilon volunteered at Lynchburg Grows, a not-for-profit corporation in the city of Lynchburg that makes gardening available to all persons and has helped create nutritional programs at local schools. The Sisters participated in the “Big for a Day” event with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lynchburg. While there, the members helped children from the program paint signs for all of the greenhouses and different areas of the property. The participants worked in small groups, each including a few children and a few Sisters, and painted the signs. “I really like that we got to paint the signs with the children for the greenhouses and other buildings and we got to express our creativity through service,” said Pamela Bossdorf, Eta Upsilon. “I think we really made the children feel great and that their art mattered and they mattered! I think we gave them happiness, even if only for a few hours.” Sister Lauren Harper said, “I think we should continue doing projects like this because all of the Sisters had a good time and bonded at the event.” Harper also recognizes the benefit of Lynchburg Grows, which also makes organic food to benefit people in the Lynchburg community. Lynchburg Grows and Big Brothers Big Sisters were both very appreciative of the chapter coming and volunteering their time. Both organizations invited the chapter to do service with them again.
Alpha Upsilon Strives to
CreateAwareness about Eating Disorders
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the FREED (Federal Response to Eliminate Eating Disorders) Act which seeks government awareness of eating disorders as well as fair insurance coverage of eating disorder treatment. The event and the month concluded with a $1,000 donation to the Leslie George Memorial Fund from the Alpha Upsilon Chapter.
Since 2000, Alpha Upsilon Chapter at James Madison University has actively worked to create awareness of eating disorders. The work began after the loss of Leslie George, Alpha Upsilon and Omega, who passed away in September 2000 due to complications from an eating disorder. During the month of February, which is National Eating Disorders Awareness Month, Sisters promote eating disorders awareness to the JMU campus for the Leslie George Memorial Fund, which was established by George’s parents shortly after her death. The event has grown tremendously in the last few years as the chapter continually strives to hold events and speakers that draw large crowds to reach as many students as possible. In addition, the Women’s Resource Center on James Madison University’s campus has helped with the planning and promoting of events, and contacting speakers.
through their internal characteristics, not their physical attributes.
The month long event includes a mix of informational and social events, in an effort to attract all types of students. Chapter members have seen the impact that their effort has had on the student body, as several students have told the women that an event inspired them to seek help for themselves or for a friend.
This year’s event included an appearance by former Miss America Kirsten Haglund, who spoke to James Madison University students and the Harrisonburg community about her platform on eating disorders awareness. She spoke of her experience with trying to be “ballerina thin” for most of her life and how she has overcome her struggle and has helped many women along the way through her work as Miss America. Additionally, the University Women’s Resource Center held a nutrition and wellness fair where students could find information about healthy eating and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. To raise money for the fund, the chapter held a dodgeball tournament and a Valentine’s Day rose sale.
The theme for this year was “My _________ makes me Beautiful.” Women should fill the blank with nonphysical characteristics about themselves that makes them beautiful. The goal of the theme is to help students build self-confidence
The month ended with Speak Out, one of the most important chapter events, which was also attended by Leslie George’s parents. The evening’s speaker, Kathleen MacDonald, spoke of her own experiences with eating disorders, as well as her work with
While events benefit the university community at large, the chapter also benefits from the events. Sisters are better educated about eating disorders and the effects they have on women. Sisters now speak more openly about their own insecurities and body image issues, and are encouraged to seek help for themselves or others. Alpha Upsilon has also found reward in knowing they have helped educate their campus community. Although Leslie George’s life was cut short, the impact she has had on her chapter and the James Madison University campus will last forever. The awareness created through the Leslie George Memorial Fund will continue helping students and continue saving lives.
For more information on the Leslie George memorial Fund, please visit www.jmu.edu/healthctr/ eatingdisorder/leslie.shtml. For more information on eating Summer 2009disorders, | T h e T r please i a n g l evisit 17
www.nationaleatingdisorders.org.
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Recruitment Reminders
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Collegiate Sisters will soon be recruiting women to join our Sisterhood, and to carry on the founding principles and traditions of our Sorority that have spanned over 100 years. The few days of recruitment can be an exciting and sometimes tiring time for our collegiate chapters, but it is also an important time for the growth of our Sorority. Recruitment makes the chapter and our Sorority, as our future leaders come from within it.
Using the concepts from Phired Up, your chapter can make recruitment a success by gaining new Sisters and continuing the growth of the chapter. It reminds us that recruitment is about making friends, and that means you have to make an active effort to get to know people. During recruitment events, make a friend with a potential new member by using natural social behavior and conversation. Instead of telling potential new members the features of membership, tell them the benefits of membership. Give your personal experiences to back up those benefits and explain our Sorority.
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Using the concepts from Phired Up, your chapter can make recruitment a success by gaining new Sisters and continuing the growth of the chapter. You can also refer to the “8 Steps to Limitless Possibility for Sororities” taken in part from I Heart Recruitment by Colleen Coffey and Jessica Gendron. • Step One: Know the Basics – Understand what your sorority is and how it works. • Step Two: A.C.E. Your Values – Commit to your purpose, then A.C.E. it. (Achieve, Communicate, and Expect) • Step Three: Get Motivated – Dream of what you could be, then let that motivate you, your chapter members, and your potential chapter members. • Step Four: Know Your Audience – Identify your organization’s potential: Who do you want and who is available? • Step Five: Know Your Product – Know what you’re offering and how to communicate it.
• Step Six: Develop Skills – Learn, practice, and do the little things to get who and what you want. • Step Seven: Grow Wiser – Continually grow wiser by using resources, both people and paper! • Step Eight: Repeat – Repeat the process over and over! Listed below are important policy reminders to help you have success at this year’s recruitment. Legacy Policy • A Tri Sigma legacy is a woman who is a Sister, daughter, or granddaughter of a Sigma Sigma Sigma. Our chapters are obligated to get to know a legacy, whether or not she chooses to go through recruitment. • Each Tri Sigma legacy is to be invited back to the first invitational recruitment event, and chapter members must make an effort to get to know her.
A legacy who is invited back to the Preference Party must be on the chapter’s “A” bid list. • If a new member legacy wishes to do so, she may request permission from the Sorority to use the badge of her relative. • If a legacy is released from chapter consideration, the Membership Recruitment Director must notify the Collegiate Coordinator and National Headquarters within 24 hours. The Membership Recruitment Director is responsible for reviewing this policy with chapter members. Alumnae Recommendations • The responsibility of recruitment does not fall solely on our collegians, as our alumnae have the privilege to recommend women for membership. When an alumna would like to bring an outstanding potential new member to the chapter’s attention, she may fill out an alumnae recommendation form and send it to that chapter. Recommendation forms can be found at www.sigmasigmasigma.org under Sigma Connect.
• Collegiate chapters also have an obligation to seek out those recommendations of potential new members by contacting alumnae chapters within their state and neighboring states. If a recommendation is received, the Alumnae Relations Chair should acknowledge it and also send a follow-up thank you note to the alumna. After formal recruitment, the Membership Recruitment Director should fill out the bottom portion of the recommendation form and send it to National Headquarters. • A recommendation on a woman does not mean the chapter must extend her a bid, but the members of that chapter should consider the opinion of the alumna. This also means a negative recommendation does not mean that a chapter should not pledge someone.
More information on Phired Up, legacy policy, and alumnae recommendations can be found in your officer manual and online at www.sigmasigmasigma.org under the ‘Sigma Connect’ portion of the Web site.
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University of Missouri – Eta Chi Chapter Installed State, Nu Chapter at Central Missouri State, Beta Xi Chapter at Southeast Missouri State University, Zeta Tau Chapter at Missouri Western State University, Eta Alpha Chapter at Stephens College, and Eta Sigma Chapter at Culver-Stockton College.
Pictured from Left to Right: Lisa Crawford, Katherine Whitaker, Cassandra Gould, Clare Reisel, Jaimie Borislow, Jacqui Lizenby, Ann Henry, Emina Kajtezovic, Jamie Ail
Sigmas from across the country celebrated the installation of Eta Chi Chapter at the University of Missouri – Columbia. The colony had been working since September to meet its goals and prepare for its installation. The official installation of Eta Chi Chapter took place January 31, 2009.
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The traditional pre-initiation meeting held Friday kicked off the installation weekend. Sigmas invited their families and friends to have some fun at a small carnivalthemed fun night and celebrate the accomplishments of the colony. On Saturday, 115 collegiate members were initiated, concluding with the initiation of Kelly Moody, honor initiate. Serving as installation officers were Laura Sweet, National President; Barbara
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Bonapfel, National Housing Director; Kim Farris, National Membership Coordinator; Cara Luyster, National Alumnae Director; Mandy McGuire, National Recruitment Coordinator; Kate Gaston, Sigma Sigma Sigma Foundation; Lorin Phillips, Director of Chapter Services; Amy Borne, Regional Director; Tiffany Fay, Residential Leadership Consultant; as well as collegiate members from the Mu Chapter at Truman
Following the initiation, family and friends came together to celebrate with a banquet and special presentation. Special guests included Julie Drury, Coordinator of Greek Life at the University of Missouri, who delivered university greetings. National greetings were delivered by Cara Luyster and Amy Borne. Laura Sweet presented Colony and Chapter President Jaimie Borislow with the charter. Borislow then presented the Eta Chi Chapter doll, dressed in attire reflecting the style of the University of Missouri. The doll will be displayed at the Walton House. Kate Gaston read a selection of greetings from collegiate chapters across the country. Following the greetings, the Eta Chi Awards Committee recognized members who have demonstrated outstanding performances in the areas of academics and contribution to the colony. The weekend ended on Sunday with the chapter’s first Ceremonial Business Meeting, the installation of the officers, and an inspiration activity.
Eta Epsilon Relinquishes Chapter Charter The new initiates are: Taylore Beatty, Katie Bevan, Abigail Burch, Jordan Cooley, Lisa Crawford, Malissa Ellsworth, Rebecca Frankenberger, Kiara Goodwin, Elyse Greci, Katherine Harris, Nicole Hoffman, Kaitlyn Kallenberger, Kelsey Landes, Kristi Mazdra, Kelsey Bennett, Taylor Biddle, Jackie Carrico, Tess Coughlin, Amy Danz, Brooke Erickson, Melissa Gall, Cassaundra Gould, Kelly Hall, Alyse Helton, Chelsey Holdinghausen, Kristina Kazanas, Kelly Link, Ashley McDonald, Erin Benney, Jaimie Borislow, Anna Casy, Anna Cox, Christine Dooley, Danielle Erickson, Jaleesa Garland, Kaitlin Graham, Meg Hall, Ann Henry, Brittney Houston, Jacqueline Kephart, Jacqui Lizenby, Kate McMahill, Morgan Berendzen, Samantha Bowler, Christine Coester, Lisa Cozad, Lauren Edens, Jessica Fear, Caitlyn Gerke, Alana Grater, Taylor Halterman, Maureen Higgins, Christine Jensen, Sarah Krehbiel, Kelsay Ludy, Meg McMills, Melissa Berman, Courtney Bryson, Whitney Colvin, Samantha Crank, Ashley Elliot, Margaret Fiorenza, Ashlee Glastetter, Hannah Graves, Kara Hardman, Haylee Hill, Emina Kajtezovic, Alexa Moberly, Cristin Paschal, Clare Reisel, Jennifer Rogers, Bethany Schluter, Lauren Shipley, Katie Suarez, Britni Volkman, Allison Wienke, Stephanie Nelson, Jennifer Paull, Breanna Revell, Jessica Roland, Gretchen Schmidt, Becca Silverstein, Andrea Swinea, Kristen Walker, Alyson Wolf, Alana Nunez, Morgan Pomplun, Hannah Riddle, Nicole Seever, Jill Sippel, Melissa Tapia, Katie Ward, Erin Wolfe, Lauren Omahen, Margaret Pulliam, Katie Riggs, Elizabeth Schaffrin, Erica Sherman, Rebecca Stephen, Melissa Vatterott, Katherine Whitaker, Meredith Young, Aisshe Palm, Maria Quinn, Julie Robinson, Melanie Schneider, Lindsey Sherman, Allyson Stewart, Brittney Vigna, Sarah White, and Kelly Moody.
It is with regret that the Executive Council voted to accept the petition of the members of Eta Epsilon Chapter at the Ringling College of Art and Design to suspend its charter effective December 21, 2008. Undergraduate initiated members in good standing will be granted alumnae status and retain the rights and privileges of their lifetime membership. The Executive Council continually reviews campuses where dormant chapters exist and when conditions are appropriate for our return, Tri Sigma will actively seek the opportunity to become a productive and viable chapter at the Ringling College of Art and Design.
Expansion News Sigma Sigma Sigma is thrilled to accept an invitation to colonize at Pennsylvania College of Technology in Williamsport, PA. Pennsylvania College of Technology is one of the premier technical colleges and is a Penn State affiliate school. Colonization preparations will begin fall 2009. We are also thrilled to accept an invitation to colonize at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR) in Little Rock, AR. UALR is a public, metropolitan university with approximately 12,000 students, both full- and part-time, enrolled in the university’s nine colleges and schools. Colonization preparations are already in progress and colonization is scheduled to take place fall 2009. Tri Sigma is headed back to New York for yet another colonization fall 2009. We have been invited to colonize at St. John’s University at Staten Island, NY. St. John’s is known for “giving students the knowledge, skills and confidence to serve others while achieving personal and professional success. Graduates become leaders in their professions, their communities and the world.” In spring 2010, Tri Sigma will be colonizing at High Point University in High Point, North Carolina. High Point offers an “education, grounded in the development of character, personal responsibility and a sense of civic duty that prepares students for leadership, citizenship and service in a diverse global community.” If you are interested in assisting with these colonization efforts and/or being an advisor, please contact National Headquarters at sigma@trisigma.org or 540-459-4212.
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Officer Academy
Collegiate chapters in the Northeast were selected to pilot one of the new national leadership programs, the Officer Academy. The Academy was held January 30-February 1, 2009, near Harrisburg, PA. Chapter Presidents, Membership Recruitment Directors, and Education Directors gathered at the Refreshing Mountain Camp for the two-day program. A total of 100 collegians from 34 chapters were in attendance.
The weekend focused on the dynamic recruitment model, conflict and confrontation from a fierce conversation model, bystander behavior and its impact on our chapters, and lots of idea sharing and connecting. In addition, our guest speaker for the weekend, Jessica Gendron, Director of Women’s Education for Phired Up Productions, provided a great kick-off to the event. Here are just a few comments from participants:
I learned a great deal from this academy. I will take back a lot of new ideas for the chapter. This was an amazing experience for our chapter. I can’t wait to send our entire officer board next year and bring all that we learned back!
I cannot wait to go back and present all of this information to my chapter. There were awesome tips and it will really benefit the chapter.
More information on Officer Academy 2010 will be available in August – stay tuned!
Your Input Needed on Recruitment Toolkit Do you remember recruitment? Those feelings of excitement, of meeting and making new friends, and working together to be a great sorority? The team of Angie Carr, Kat Gillan, Mandy McGuire, and Chris Smithhisler is working on a Recruitment Toolkit. The goal of the toolkit is to serve as a resource for our collegiate chapter Membership Recruitment Directors, and we want your input. What skills did you gain from recruitment and the recruitment process? Please send your thoughts to csmithhisler@trisigma.org. The team is eager to hear from you to make the Recruitment Toolkit a meaningful resource.
CORRECTION The e-mail address published in the Spring 2009 Triangle article “Web & Photo Submission Guidelines” was incorrect. The correct e-mail address to submit articles or comments is triangle@trisigma.org. Please make note of this update. The Triangle apologizes for any inconvenience.
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Minneapolis, Minnesota • July 9-12, 2010 Tony Award-winners Theatre de la Jeune Lune, The Children’s Theatre Company, and the Guthrie Theater all call Minneapolis home, as well as three historic theaters that make up the Hennepin Theatre District, and orchestra and opera groups performing throughout the year.
Minneapolis is a world-class city, with fabulous shopping, dining, and entertainment. Getting around is a snap using light rail transit, with stops in downtown, the airport, and Mall of America. No matter what the weather, easily travel between many hotels and attractions using the skyway system. Diverse ethnic options like Nicollet Avenue’s “Eat Street,” and the Warehouse District are the center of downtown’s nightlife, bursting with restaurants and nightclubs. The music and theater scene is top-notch, with everything from Broadway shows to local and national bands.
Art, science, and history are on display at over 57 museums in the city and well-known places such as Walker Art Center and Weisman Art Museum that have made their mark nationally. Shop along Nicollet Mall or visit the largest mall in the country, Mall of America. Plus, there’s no sales tax on apparel, so get ready to save. Visit the historic Riverfront District, where Minneapolis got its start in the flour milling industry. Experience the City of Lakes at its best and walk or bike on over 50 miles of trails along the Grand Round Scenic Byway or enjoy paths winding through the city along the Mississippi River.
What is your True North? The 2010 Convention is all about finding your true north, and we want to hear your stories! How did you find your authentic self? Are you pursuing your passion? How did your chapter find its groove and start living the values of Tri Sigma? Tell us about your journey and discoveries along the way so we can share it with your Sigma Sisters. Make a short, one-minute video and submit it to sigma@trisigma.org or send it to National Headquarters by September 1, 2009. Your video should tell us about the significant pieces of your journey and end with, “My name is ____ and this is my true north story.” If you don’t want to make a video, type your story and send a picture! Don’t forget to include the following information with your submission: name, e-mail address, and chapter.
The winning entries will be featured on Sigma Connect and at the 2010 Convention. Questions? Contact Chris Smithhisler, Director of Programs, at 317-373-1347 or csmithhisler@trisigma.org. Summer 2009 | T h e T r i a n g l e
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Alumnae Initiate Program Strengthens Bonds of Sisterhood By Katie Wadington, Epsilon Xi It took Lorri Gums 16 years to become a Tri Sigma. Her journey to initiation is more complicated than most, starting in 1991 as a new member at Beta Kappa and culminating with Triangle Degree in 2007. In the end — after various obstacles, occasional interactions with Sigma alumnae, and a flirtation with another NPC sorority — it was Sigma’s alumnae initiation program that allowed her to join our Sisterhood. Gums, Iota Alpha, says that through it all, “I knew I was a Sigma.” She was initiated into the Los Angeles Alumnae Chapter and is now a collegiate advisor for Zeta Theta chapter. “I love Sigma so much, I just wanted to be a productive and useful member,” she says. The bonds of Sisterhood last more than three or four years — they last a lifetime. Tri Sigma’s alumnae initiation program allows women
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to share in the journey that a majority of members start when they’re in college. The initiation of alumnae members began as early as 1926, according to Sigma records. The first Alumna Honor Initiate, Vicki Tanguma Kelley, Epsilon Iota, was initiated at the
Alumnae Vice President Mandy Chocheles, Gamma Eta, says alumnae initiation presents women with many advantages, particularly the deep friendship that Sisterhood affords. “Perhaps a woman never had the opportunity to attend college, or couldn’t complete her
The bonds of Sisterhood last more than three or four years — they last a lifetime. Dallas Convention in 1992. More recently, the Alumnae Initiate Resolution was passed at 2001 Convention, which allowed Alumnae Chapters to initiate new members when no collegiate chapters are nearby. To date, more than 600 women have joined the bonds of Sigma Sisterhood through alumnae initiation. All 26 National Panhellenic Conference sororities offer this process.
education for a variety of reasons. She is at a point in her life when she has the time and financial ability to be part of a strong group of women, and wants to participate in their local chapter and have the national sorority experience. The alumna initiation process allows for this to happen,” Chocheles says. Often, women are eager to join the sorority because they know a
As I studied and read to complete my task as a consultant, I fell in love with Tri Sigma, the Declaration of Principles, and the concept of friendship, character, and conduct. When I was asked to join in membership, it was a huge honor and privilege to say yes and join into Sisterhood. — Chris Smithhisler, Iota Alpha Sigma and admire what she stands for. “I really liked Tri Sigma and the principles of the Sorority. I wanted to be a part of these principles and also a Sister with all of the wonderful people I met through the Grand Rapids Alumnae Chapter,” says Heather Hallagan, Iota Alpha, who was brought into the Sorority by Michelle Burke, Rho, a co-worker at Grand Valley State University. Initially, alumnae could only be initiated at collegiate chapters. The program has since been expanded to allow alumnae chapters to perform Triangle Degree when no collegiate chapter is nearby. At the 2007 Nashville Convention, Sisters initiated by alumnae chapters got a “collegiate” chapter to call their own: Iota Alpha. Many alumnae chapters, particularly on the West Coast where there are fewer collegiate chapters, take advantage of the process to add to their membership. The Long Beach Alumnae Chapter in California initiated its first alumna last spring, renting ritual equipment from National Headquarters, to perform Triangle Degree, chapter president Marilyn Fortier says. “The program is important to us because it gives us another way to increase our membership,” she says. In joining Tri Sigma, alumnae initiates go through the same steps as collegiate women, starting with Arc Degree and including a national test. The status of a member who is initiated as an alumna is the same as a member who is initiated as a collegian. Alumnae members are the backbone of the Sorority, providing leadership and support to collegiate members, and carrying out the mission and values of Tri Sigma. Many Sigmas who joined after college make an immediate impact on the Sorority. Often they become members of collegiate Alumnae Advisory Boards or
Housing Corporations. Anne Ruiz, Iota Alpha, was initiated into the Phoenix Alumnae Chapter in 2005 and is its Philanthropy Chair. She has hosted Arc and Triangle Degrees at her house and has invited a good friend to join the Sorority as well. “I went to Convention in Nashville, where I participated in presenting a workshop on alumnae initiation. I really enjoyed Convention and never thought I could have so much fun with so many women,” Ruiz says. Chris Smithhisler, Iota Alpha, received Triangle Degree as the Alumna Honor Initiate at the 2007 Convention, but her work with Tri Sigma precedes her initiation. “I knew about Tri Sigma when I was in graduate school at Western Illinois University. My big introduction to Tri Sigma was when I was hired as a consultant to update the membership education program in 2000,” she says. “As I studied and read to complete my task as a consultant, I fell in love with Tri Sigma, the Declaration of Principles, and the concept of friendship, character, and conduct. When I was asked to join in membership, it was a huge honor and privilege to say yes and join into Sisterhood.” The Sorority hired her as Director of Programs in 2008. Chocheles says the process ends up being a win-win situation for new members as well as alumnae chapters and the Sorority. “I think the women who choose this are an asset to the chapter they are first attracted to because they have the maturity to realize what a nice opportunity this is to enhance their lives. There is no pressure, no feeling of being left out if they don’t want to join; it’s an all-around positive experience!”
For more information on the alumnae initiation process, visit the Tri Sigma Web site: www.sigmasigmasigma.org.
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our alumnae
Alumnae News Austin Area Alumnae Chapter Tri Sigma alumnae Kathleen “Kathy” Byrne Harris, Beta Mu, finds a way to fulfill the Sigma Serves Children pledge by donating 10 inches of hair to Locks for Love. The organization makes human hair wigs for children who lose their hair from chemotherapy, radiation treatments, or other causes. Harris is a member of the Austin Area Alumnae Chapter and serves on the AAB for Epsilon Iota at St. Mary’s University in San Antonio.
Kent State Recognizes Cara Luyster, Alpha Beta Cara Luyster, Alpha Beta, was recently named the Greek Alumni Chapter’s 2009 Young Alumni Award recipient at Kent State University. Cara was recognized at the Greek Alumni Chapter Distinguished Alumni Awards Ceremony in March 2009 by Margaret VanFossen, President of the Greek Alumni Chapter. She was nominated by Alpha Beta House Corporation President Abby Snowberger and was joined by several members of the Alpha Beta chapter at the ceremony.
Seattle Area Alumnae Host Tea Seattle Area Alumnae enjoyed afternoon tea with guests of honor National President Laura Sweet and Foundation Development Officer GOLD Program, Kate Gaston. It was nice to see some new faces and Seattle Alumnae Chapter members hope to see you at a future event.
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Central Florida The Central Florida Alumnae, both as a chapter and as individuals, have focused on community service this year. In October, chapter members prepared dinner for the guests of the Ronald McDonald House. The chapter became a “Helping Hand Sponsor” for the Ronald McDonald House by fully underwriting the cost of 10 rooms for the Share-a-Night, Light-a-Light Celebration in December. Generous donations were made to Second Harvest Food Bank, Destiny Foundation (which serves the working poor), and Toys for Tots at Christmas. In January, the chapter hosted a bingo party for veterans at the Orlando Veterans Affairs Community Living Center, where member Nancy Carlson Gavaghan, Rho, works. Maveh Rosser Barker, Alpha Mu, entertained at the piano as the residents arrived. In February, Memory Woolen Morgan, Epsilon Nu, was supported with a $100 donation toward her goal for the Juvenile Diabetes walk. Alison Blackmore Bogart, Chi, was one of five people honored at a March event that recognized people younger than 40 who are helping guide Brevard County, FL, forward in positive ways. Alison is a board member for the United Way of Brevard and chairwoman of its Emerging Leaders initiative, a board member for Catholic Charities of Central Florida, and a recently-appointed key alumna for Tri Sigma. Daytona Beach, FL The Daytona Beach alumnae and the Eta Tau Sisters met to make fleece blankies for local charities. Senior Send on was a great success. Four graduates received the Circle Degree. Fifteen graduates are expected for the Spring Senior Send-On.
Colorado. The Sigma Sigma Sigma Foundation recently awarded Denver a grant that was used to provide a Pac-Man/Galage table top game for use in Children’s Hospital Emergency Department. The game is very popular and helps patients and families cope with the stress of the health care environment by providing developmentally appropriate, normalized play. In addition, Denver alumnae, joined this year by collegiates from Eta Pi Chapter, set up well-stocked craft stations for patients and families waiting for appointments in different areas of the hospital. Young patients and their families spent time creating bright, cheerful scrapbooks, visors, or door hangers they could enjoy taking home after their appointment. For a brief moment children could forget how sick they are and enjoy something fun. Participating Sigmas continue to feel that this annual project is one of the most moving and rewarding activities they do. Members are always left in awe of these very sick children and their families who face such overwhelming obstacles and still manage to have a smile for others. Fort Wayne, IN For over 30 years, the Fort Wayne Indiana Alumnae Chapter has participated in the Christmas Gift Lift benefiting the Mental Health America of Allen County. Carol Kellerman Buttell, Beta Gamma, has organized this philanthropy project every year. We wrap small gifts and gift cards for various patients in Allen County. The Fort Wayne Alumnae Chapter has supported the Gift Lift longer that any other organization.
Houston Alumnae Chapter members gather with a few family members on the Life Flight helipad with part of the Life Flight crew.
Houston, TX
Jean Swanson Stuck, Alpha Epsilon, and Lynn Hadley Harrington, Iota, work on craft projects with patients at Colorado’s Children’s Hospital
Denver, CO Denver Area Alumnae continue to “Make a Child Smile” through their contributions of money and time to Colorado’s new Children’s Hospital in Aurora,
The women of the Houston Alumnae chapter had the opportunity to tour Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston. Last year, the chapter received a Foundation Grant for the hospital to purchase a doll to help children going through various medical procedures. The doll has different attachments that allow the children to see, step by step, what will happen. Part of the hospital tour included a visit to the Life Flight helipad.
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our alumnae
Alumnae News, Continued Epsilon Epsilon, provides “Something So Simple” service projects to keep us motivated throughout the year to complete good deeds.
Making Halloween “crackers” are, from left, Karen Lukas Silz, Kappa; Jo Ann Estes Coble, Iota; Liz Giles Irwin, Alpha.
Inland Empire, CA Inland Empire Alumnae Chapter Sisters are very generous in giving time to benefit others. We support our local philanthropy, Child Help USA, a group home for severely abused children, with donations of new pajamas, underwear and stuffed toys. Once a year, we gather to participate in a unique and much appreciated service project: making Halloween “crackers,” cardboard toilet tissue rolls filled with Halloween-themed treats like stickers, spider rings, erasers and finger puppets that we wrap in orange and black tissue paper and tie with ribbons. Jo Ann Estes Coble, Iota, a volunteer at the home says the children are delighted with our gifts, and we as Sisters enjoy making them. Jo Ann is also active in the Riverside Panhellenic, along with new alumna initiate Natalie Thompson, and is a docent at the historic “Mission Inn.” The Assistance League is another of our chapter philanthropies. Gwen Hall Marino, Beta Kappa, takes our gently used clothing and household items to sell in the Bargain Box thrift store. Funds raised benefit Operation School Bell, providing necessities for needy school children. Each of our members, in her own way, strives to serve children and better her community. We thank them for their service! North Jersey The Sigma Sisters of the North Jersey Alumnae Chapter donate Halloween gift bags for the children at the Jersey Battered Women’s shelter each October. In addition, we collect and donate toiletries for the women. At holiday time in December, the chapter adopts a needy family and provides gifts. Our Foundation Chairperson, Angela Arbuckle Manzi,
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North Jersey Alumnae hear from Mary Kay cosmetic representative Leah Dade. She spoke about a philanthropic program, Beauty That Counts, which donates 100 percent of the profit to “change the lives of women and children around the world.” Our Sisters supported this effort by purchasing “Apple Berry” lipsticks.
Ariele Shioli, Laura Slife Shioli, Beta Kappa, and Marilyn Salie Arnett, Beta Kappa, are working on a blanket to donate to Project Linus.
San Jose/Peninsula, CA The San Jose/Peninsula Alumnae Chapter has been actively supporting community projects this year. In November, we collected new books for the San Jose Mercury News’ Project Read. These books are donated to needy children and to schools. We brought toys and gift certificates for families at the Ronald McDonald House at Stanford University to our December Christmas Party. Our last activity was in March at Laura Shioli’s home where we joined her daughter’s Girl Scout troop in making fleece blankets to donate to Project Linus. We truly enjoy giving of ourselves by helping support the needy in our local area.
Congratulations Greater Savannah Area Alumnae Chapter receives charter
Congratulations to the Greater Savannah Area Alumnae Chapter, in Savannah, Georgia, newly chartered in March 2009. Charter members of this alumnae chapter are: Megan Moore Holland, Eta Rho Windy Marie Hunter, Epsilon Theta Alexys Rene Long, Eta Rho Sarah Elizabeth Bagby, Eta Rho Erin Holler Adams, Eta Rho Victoria LeBreton Asciutto, Epsilon Mu Amanda Kay Chapman, Eta Rho Mary Joy Evans Gilber, Epsilon Theta Alison Marie Gramza Beta Tau Magan Jean Harsh, Eta Rho Danna Elizabeth Hathaway, Eta Rho Rebecca Ann Robinson, Eta Rho Tamara JoAnne Scaggs, Eta Rho Sarah Lee Solomon, Eta Rho
Madison Area Alumnae Chapter receives charter Congratulations to the Madison Area Alumnae Chapter in Madison, WI, newly chartered in March 2009. Barb Stone, National Treasurer, attended one of the chapter meetings and presented the Alumnae Chapter charter. Charter members of this alumnae chapter are: Wendy Lynn Patterson, Alpha Xi Ann Corcoran Diller, Alpha Xi Bonnie Wilcox, Sigma Amy Walsworth Albrecht, Zeta Eta Helen Lehman Kinney, Alpha Chi Marjorie Kindstrom Millard, Beta Alpha Lori Trebatoski Ness, Epsilon Kappa Stacey Erin Kropp, Epsilon Kappa Melissa Maranowicz Mooney, Gamma Lambda Reyna Schenk Marshman, Gamma Lambda Jill Kammer Wozniczka, Epsilon Kappa Kathryn Myer Budzak, Beta Lambda Christy Lynn Ruby, Gamma Phi Marianne Armstrong Nelson, Beta Rho Jayme Ann Johnson, Gamma Lambda Patricia Terasa Maniaci, Gamma Lambda
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our foundation
Foundation GOLD Program Raises MoreThan $900,000
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The GOLD program operates this way: a Foundation GOLD Development Officer visits a city, meets with alumnae in the area to talk about Tri Sigma and its Foundation, and asks for monthly or quarterly pledges of financial support. Although the program first focused on young alumnae who still remain the primary focus, now GOLD officers meet with Tri Sigmas of all ages. Kate Gaston, Alpha Chi, and Amy Keith, Beta Xi, were the Foundation’s first GOLD officers. Starting this year, they hosted GOLD receptions in several cities as a way to say thank you to donors. Donors between August 1, 2006, and June 30, 2007, were listed in last year’s Foundation Annual Report. The following women made gifts and pledges between July 1, 2007, and March 20, 2009:
GOLD donor Beth Caldwell, Alpha Chi and GOLD Development Officer, Kate Gaston, Alpha Chi
The Sigma Sigma Sigma Foundation’s GOLD (Graduates of the Last Decade) program set new standards for Greek groups in fundraising. Begun by the Foundation in August 2006, the program has raised $918,011 in three- to five-year pledges from 556 alumnae as of March 20, 2009. Over 1,146 alumnae have been visited.
ALPHA Kathleen Hawkes Crispens Elizabeth Ann Mingee Amy Nicole Williams Rebecca Emily Williams ALPHA ALPHA Amy Marie Brooks
ALPHA OMICRON Pamela Montgomery Hopkins Jamie Leigh Oliver Lindsay Morgan Waldron
ALPHA BETA Leslie Alison Newman Alissa Campbell Shaw Veronica Leigh Vana
ALPHA PHI Lois Marie Hansen-Hjelle Nicole Andrea Scarantino Sherry Francetic Tarrio
ALPHA CHI Natae Caliper Bugg Verda “Snooky” Antoinette Davis Deborah Quilhot Eaton Tiffany Nicole Fay Marilee Morgan Forrest Beth Caldwell Moore Kara Cocke Powell Wendy Ann Sturgeon
ALPHA PI Lisa Marie Bergamotto Gina Rose Spinelli Kelsi Sue Wilcox
ALPHA EPSILON Kathryn Ann Hansen Carissa Lynn Kalkbrenner ALPHA IOTA Annie Gay King Jennifer Benge Lindblad Jacqueline Kinion Schimpf Melissa Marie Schnur ALPHA MU Angela Stockstill Deren Ronda McClintock Faciane Melinda Claire Koon Donielle Gaubert Watkins
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ALPHA NU Rachel Francis Kremski Jana Marie Lopez
ALPHA PSI Kimberly Elaine Roth Kimberly Campen Samford Pamela Giardina Schwalb ALPHA RHO Nikole Joy DiVito Kimberly Ann Prysock-Winters ALPHA THETA Eda Marie Engman ALPHA XI Nichole Lueth Cline Megan Brandt Gonzalez M. Eileen Spencer Schafer ALPHA ZETA Jeni Brooke Anderson Cheryl Jones Anderson Deidra Foley Brazell Britney Anne Burton
ALPHA ZETA (CONT.) Veda Morris Diamond Cecelia Vienne Lummus Michelle Marie Simon BETA ALPHA Katherine Henke Scherping BETA BETA Michelle La Juan Darnell Tiffany Lynn Gerling BETA DELTA Amy Holcombe Chatterjee Stephanie Nasteff Chelsea Aubren Stemple BETA EPSILON Stacey Christine Edgar Megan Elizabeth Candice Hare BETA GAMMA Susie Fink Kuhn Maria Elena VanHart BETA KAPPA Maryellen Drasler Baxter Christine Fraker Bonow Cynthia Chavez Ellingson BETA LAMBDA Carol Joan Havlik Donovan BETA PHI Lalai Sapp Hamric Darlene Chadwick Thibodeau BETA PI Colleen Patricia Becker Rashel Jacquelyn Lane
BETA TAU Mary Margaret Bussone-Neam Amanda M. Calabrese Kristine Trewyn Plotinski Virginia Lynn Sebolt Bridgett Lyn Zelasko BETA THETA Angela Spadaccia Ciccone Stephanie Rose Hackett Jo Ann Rosak Kalantzis Bharati Olga Sharma BETA UPSILON Allison Cradic Amanda Marie Holcombe Tori Ann King Rachel Samantha Morse Janette Marie Pokrifka Tracy Titus Potochny Lauren Ashley Riordan Melissa Justine Scheiner BETA XI Carolyn Anne Barthelmass Colleen Moriarty Blanford Sara Palmer Green Christina Belmar Halim Katina Kelley Harshbarger Angela Elaine Hill-Mayes Jenny Spaeth Metcalf Diane Lippold Niebling Martha Bennett Ott Rachael LuAnne Whearty
CHI Lindsay Ann Heck Jennifer Michelle Rafiner Patricia Jane Roberts Lisa Nicole Snowden DELTA ALPHA Elizabeth May Moody DELTA BETA Stephanie Allison Diamond Jacklyn Liszka Inman Corbie Meadows Latham DELTA CHI Gabrielle Bowser Harrison Lisa Jarrett Iervolino Sarah Midori Kelman DELTA DELTA Tamara Reynolds Cohen Michele Aldridge DeFoe Whitney Allyn Moore Susan Hines Mullican Carrie Elizabeth Tate DELTA KAPPA Susan Gibbs Allgood DELTA NU Celeste Ann Callahan Randi Simon Pillion DELTA OMICRON Kristen Taylor Drake Kathleen Mary Ketchum DELTA PHI Malissa Frerichs Sloan DELTA PI Leslie Mehard Brady Sundi Dawn Courtney Wende Ann Ellis Katherine Elizabeth Fishburne DELTA THETA Ronna Cochran Ellis DELTA UPSILON Kerrianne Farrelly Brady Rebecca Amy Stern DELTA XI Marie Androsevic Rees DELTA ZETA Gwendolyn Sheets Raifsnider EPSILON ALPHA Alexis Klotie Claypool Michelle Renee DeVoll Amy Kristine London Meredith Dodgion Nahm Andrea Christine Perez Steffie Ann Peterson EPSILON BETA Courtney Leigh Anne Sorensen EPSILON CHI Susan Terraglia Crisci Kaelyn D. Glasgow Jennifer L. Greenberg Danielle Terraglia EPSILON EPSILON Stephanie Medwick Blotzer Christina Marie Casazza Sarah Perrone Chapkowski Deborah Ann DeCross Josephine Panara-Woodruff EPSILON ETA Renee Massoud Pope
EPSILON IOTA Lorena Lee Cavazos Frances Elizabeth Gehringer Denise Flores Guillen Jennifer Goetz LaFoy Nadia Denise Madrid Crystal Marroquin Rachelle Figueroa Rivera EPSILON KAPPA Amy Sue Juszczak Theresa Crogan Krajnak EPSILON LAMBDA Kristen Wichtner Thacker EPSILON MU Robyn Mary Cibak Samantha Mollie Schertz EPSILON NU Megan Ulshafer Edson Leslie Ervin Hopkins Laurie Sofferman Karner Tara Anne Slaughter Nicole Cecelia Steele Sarah Anne Timko EPSILON OMICRON Erin Marie Powers Erin Elizabeth Robinson-Lockwood Ashley Schnake Schultz Alison Needham Wirth EPSILON PHI Kimberly Megan Newman Katie Ann Powers Lauren Janelle Stephenson EPSILON RHO Sara Rae Hoadley EPSILON SIGMA Jessica Marie Sleppy EPSILON THETA Rebekah Ruth Ager Danielle Oxford Boshart Rebecca Marasia Corder Samantha Bozeman D’Amato Stephanie Everett Stephanie Mills Farrell Emily Jean Treuman Elena Michelle Weiss EPSILON XI Jennifer Kuhn EPSILON ZETA Melissa Ann Martin Renee Nicole Metcalf Cyndy Williams Rider Paula Sutherland Wallace ETA ALPHA Cherie Badeen Rigney ETA BETA Polly Elizabeth White ETA DELTA Tammy Flowers Daeke ETA EPSILON Kaylene Simmons Rudd ETA GAMMA Shannon Medeck Smith ETA IOTA Collette Cooley Knight ETA KAPPA Shannon Donathan Cancellare Vanessa Guzman
ETA OMICRON Christina Rike Snyder Natalie Marie Williams
RHO Tina Marie Schrader Sandra Walker
ETA PI Amanda Allee Koback Jenifer Fetzer Kumfer
ZETA BETA Kanoelani Antoinette Patterson ZETA CHI Ashley Elvington Small
ETA THETA Katja Jean Ericson
ZETA EPSILON Kelly Gonzalez Audrey Jalandoni Hernandez Celinda Exsenea Miranda Miriam Elsa Velasco-Esquivel
ETA XI Quinn Dinsmore Bryner Dana Ashley Fillo ETA ZETA Carrie Beth Curtis Brigette Eliza Stark GAMMA ALPHA Lisa Renee Koeller GAMMA BETA Alison Greenwood Dattoma GAMMA EPSILON Donna Proctor Griggs
ZETA ETA Jessica Lynn Anderson Melissa Cowles Jennifer Michelle Erickson Jennifer Lynn Laatsch Stephanie Lynn Pinski ZETA GAMMA Jacqueline Ann Gregory ZETA IOTA Jami Michael Vienneau
GAMMA KAPPA Jean Marie Komyathy
ZETA KAPPA Kathy Diamantopoulos Coyle Emily AnnMcDonough
GAMMA LAMBDA Stephanie Ann Hull Kristen Megan Mylotte GAMMA MU Mary Taylor Bosarge Cari Caliva Britt Emily Phillips Hall Suzanne Blanchard McGlone Susan Leonard Vilmain GAMMA PHI Carolyn Rezny Benson Katherine Marie Monsour
ZETA LAMBDA Meghan Elizabeth Nyers ZETA MU Hilary Arden Schwaderer ZETA OMICRON Catherine Phelan Cunning Claudia Conceicao Lucas ZETA PHI Bobbi Anne Barnowsky
GAMMA PI Michelle Templet Wiley
ZETA PI Amy Leah Foschini
GAMMA PSI Su-Lin Hammond Banks Mary Short Black Carrie Marie Smith Carrie Nutter Varnedore
ZETA PSI Elizabeth Rachael Ricketts ZETA RHO Sarah Kathleen George Megan Ann O’Keefe Heather Forbes Smith
GAMMA RHO Carolyn Miller Garofalo Dana Marie Pruskowski
ZETA TAU Tricia Marie Burch Jenny Lynn Farrenkopf Jennifer Williams Partlow
GAMMA XI Heidi Apelt DeVincent Tracy O’Shields Mitchell IOTA Debra Kay Wilcox IOTA ALPHA Lorri Michelle Gums Christina McCrory Smithhisler KAPPA Amy Lynne Blount Susan Poe Flowers Lori Prato Keating
ZETA THETA Nicki Putnam Baughman Melissa Buchanan Hawkins Jamie Shappart Howerton Victoria Leach Wallace Tammy Kaszowski Kalail
Thank you
MU Colleen Melody Dunford Jane Emily Hubbs Ashley Elizabeth Nassau Jeanne Ruane Nissen
NU Mary Rice Harris Heather Lynne Hudson Marilyn Middleton Weaver PI Kaori Iha Hornbaker Kelly Jo Shannon Karnes Leah Dilts Mauger
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our foundation
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Walton House Sisterhood Walk
The Sisterhood Walk, a brick pathway lining the walkways from the front of National Headquarters to the side patio, has become a reality for Sigma Sigma Sigma. As this project continues to add to the outdoor beauty at National Headquarters, the Walton House Board members are especially grateful to those who have been among the first to purchase bricks. Those whose names now line walkways are listed here. Many Sigma Sisters purchased bricks showing their steadfast support of Sigma Sigma Sigma or honoring their collegiate and/or alumnae chapters. Sigmas have also honored or memorialized a special Sister, advisor or national officer by purchasing a brick in her name. As you read through the current list of bricks, note if your chapter is represented. Were you going to put a check in the mail and just haven’t done so? Act now, while there is still room to add your special brick to the Sisterhood Walk. Show your love for Tri Sigma when you make this special purchase.
Bricks cost $125 with space for up to three lines of text, with a maximum of 20 characters per line. Characters include letters, numbers, spaces, and punctuation. Don’t be left out as Sigma Sisters lay a lasting foundation by providing a gift to the restoration of our historic headquarters. Each year, an additional brick installation will be added to the Sisterhood Walk until all bricks have been sold. Order now to ensure your brick will be added in 2009. An order form can be found on the Web site.
Please continue your support of the Tri Sigma Sisterhood Walk and purchase a brick today!
List as of May 2009
Individual Heather Brazil Acosta KATHRYN ASHTON CARLSON – ZETA BETA Gaby Astrauskas FOREVER IN OUR HEART SHIRLEY CYSCO ROOME EPSILON LAMBDA Shannon Bandish LAMBDA FALL 1997 Mary K Barbee EXECUTIVE COUNCIL 2001-2004 Sheri Baughman SHANNON A. BUSH ZETA CHI Maryellen Baxter HAPPY 100TH BIRTHDAY PAULINE CHILDERS YOUR AZ SISTERS Marie Schrag Beck BETA UPSILON 1961 LeEtta Smith Beers ALPHA NU Marilyn McGraw Beiter MARILYN MCGRAW BEITER – BETA XI ST. LOUIS ALUMNAE Karrie Benjamin IN HONOR OF MARILYNN SCHMITT KINSELLA – ALPHA XI Kathleen McKnight Baird KATHLEEN MCKNIGHT BAIRD RHO Katie Biondi IN HONOR OF COLONY MEMBERS AND ADVISORS AT UW-PARKSIDE Jean Whitfield Birkhill JEAN WHITFIELD BIRKHILL GAMMA DELTA
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Jennifer Moore Black JENNIFER MOORE BLACK ALPHA THETA Sue Bloomfield SHIRLEY B. HESS ZETA Lisa Blumerman LISA BLUMERMAN GAMMA IOTA Marilyn Miller Boldenow HUTCHINSON, KANSAS ALUMNAE CHAPTER Janette Boswell JANETTE PACE BOSWELL ALPHA ZETA 299 1949 NPC-NATL AL CHAIR Marie Chisholm Botsford BETA DELTA Amy Geddie Boyce AMY GEDDIE BOYCE EPSILON PI Irene Brennan EPSILON RHO MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY MANKATO Gwen Broich IN HONOR OF GAMMA NU CHAPTER 2006 Judith Peisel Burkholder JUDITH PEISEL BURKHOLDER – KAPPA THANK YOU! Peggy Brooks Burruss • ALPHA UPSILON SISTERS 1942-1945 • VIRGINIA BOWEN CLINE ALPHA UPSILON Kathryn Ashton Carlson HEATHER BRAZIL ACOSTA ZETA BETA
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Carolyn Morrison Chapman CAROLYN MORRISON CHAPMAN ALPHA UPSILON Sara Cherban – President INDIVIDUALLY UNIQUE TOGETHER COMPLETE GAMMA RHO 2007 Angela Spadaccia Ciccone ANGELA SPADACCIA CICCONE – BETA THETA Alicia Ashton Clark • ALICIA ASHTON CLARK ALPHA • THOMAS & GLORIA LEIGH ASHTON ALPHA Lisa Collins JUDY PEGG ALPHA GAMMA WICHITA ALUMNAE Elyse Conroy SIGMA SIGMA SIGMA CENTRAL MICHIGAN ALPHA PHI 2006-2007 Amy Moore Corsi GREATER ST. LOUIS ALUMNAE CHAPTER Reatha Cox REATHA COLE COX ALPHA ZETA 1982 Christine Cross C. LINDSAY CROSS EPSILON ALPHA CSU – HAYWARD 2004 Jessica Cusumano ETA LAMBDA DEDICATED TO OUR ADVISOR DR. RAVELLE Marcia Cutter MARCIA CUTTER BETA GAMMA NATIONAL TREASURER Kathleen Lanier Dabbs KATHLEEN LANIER DABBS – ALPHA PSI
Kim Davids KIM KOKKO DAVIDS OMICRON Rebecca B. Davidson ALPHA UPSILON SPRINKLE HOUSE 1945-1947 Marissa Depew PI Sharon Johannsen Devlin SHARON DEVLIN BETA LAMBDA ‘66 Donna Stulik Dickison NANCY STULIK ALKOV DONNA STULIK DICKISON Caitlin Dobson ALPHA XI UW-WHITEWATER FOUNDED 1932 Carol Joan Havlik Donovan • BETA LAMBDA • FRANCIS CAVIN ALPHA NU • IN LOVING MEMORY ABBADABBADOO 1972-1991 Cathleen Doolan GAMMA IOTA FALL ‘95 JESS,JESS, JODI, JEN CATHY, KATE & LAUREN Michelle Drenckhahn MICHELLE A. DRENCKHAHN BETA PI Sherry Loterbauer Dunn SHERRY LOTERBAUER DUNN – GAMMA SIGMA Emily Eure Ellis EMILY EURE ELLIS GAMMA BETA Barbara Harris Erwin ANNE ERWIN DILL ALPHA CHI
Mary Yvonne Draper Faulkner MARY KATHERINE FLOWERS LAWRENCE GAMMA BETA Angela Gose Feldman CONSTANCE MAYNARD BETA GAMMA Becky Fitch ALPHA SIGMA 585 USM 1984 Betty Keeley Flayer ZETA Wanda Duffy Flowers WANDA DUFFY FLOWERS UPSILON ADA, OKLA Celeste Fontenot CELESTE MARIE RICHARD FONTENOT ALPHA MU Helen Fooshe HELEN KEHMEIER FOOSHE – SIGMA 1939 Inez Fridley IN MEMORY OF VIRGINIA MINGES ALPHA UPSILON Peggy Gamble • IDA BELLE DOWDELL • PEGGY GAMBLE ΑΣ NATIONAL TREASURER WALTON HOUSE BOARD Ilene Swank Garrett CONSTANCE SWANK KAPPA Constance Sejnost Geldbach JEANNETTE SEJNOST BETA XI Ann Gauthier Gilmore IOTA Joyce Dibble Godfrey JOYCE DIBBLE GODFREY NU
Jacqueline Williams Goreham JACQUELINE WILLIAMS GOREHAM ALPHA PSI – NATIONAL OFFICER Margaret H. Gouldman MARGARET V. HOFFMAN Kat Greer • DELTA THETA SISTERS MERIDETH, KAT STEPHANIE • DELTA THETA UNCP FOUNDED 1974 Jacque Williams Guida • DEE DEE CURTIS SPENCER – BETA KAPPA • IN MEMORY DEE DEE SPENCER CURTIS – BETA KAPPA • JACQUE WILLIAMS GUIDA – BETA KAPPA Krysia Kulawiak Haars KRYSIA KULAWIAK HAARS ZETA ZETA Helen Hahn HELEN HAHN ALPHA THETA 1942 Sandy Hill Haymaker JERI DOOLEY MCKINNEY ALPHA ALPHA Brenda Hogston Henderson BRENDA HOGSTON HENDERSON ALPHA THETA Linda Henderson DELTA PSI ST. JOSEPH’S UNIV. PHILADELPHIA, PA Lynn Coco Hinrichs MARY NELL CAZAYOUX ALPHA MU
Jackie Holko JACKIE HOLKO GAMMA RHO 1996-2000 Jennifer Holtsclaw JENNIFER HOLTSCLAW DELTA PI 382 Janet Horner JAN HORNER ΒΞ PUBLICATIONS VP AND FOUNDATION CHAIRMAN Polly Wingfield Horne POLLY WINGFIELD HORNE – RHO Heather Horton DELTA PI Juliet Hunter JULIET HUNTER BETA DELTA Alison Futer Hutchinson MARIE BUCKWALTER GLASS – GAMMA RHO Roberta Hunter Jackson ROBERTA HUNTER JACKSON – BETA GAMMA Michelle Janisz BETHANY A DEINES BETA KAPPA ARIZONA STATE UNIV. Jeanne Johnson • ANDREA PATTERSON PROVENZANO BY CC, NCC, AD • CATHY DUFFIN ALBRIGHT – CHI NCC, AD – 1990-2002 • JEANNE JOHNSON COLLEGIATE VP 1992-2001 Pamela Snyder Johnson HELEN MARIE SNYDER ALPHA XI Dinah Jones DINAH & LIZ BETA XI SISTERS OF THE HEART Julie Kim BALTIMORE SUBURBAN SW ALUMNAE CHAPTER Lisa Koeller LONG BEACH ALUMNAE CHAPTER Jean Marie Komyathy EVER FORWARD... JEAN MARIE Deborah Chiappelli LaSalle DEBORAH CHIAPPELLI LASALLE – ALPHA RHO Alissa Smith Leach SMITH, LEACH THIBODEAUX & WAGNER FAMILIES Emily Lewis Lee • COLUMBIA, SC ALUMNAE CHAPTER 1955-2005 • EMILY LEWIS LEE ΑΠ JENNIFER E. HOLTSCLAW DP JMU 100TH – 3/13/08 • JANE KINDERMAN • MARJORIE S. HOSKINS BOB HOSKINS SOUTHWEST MO UNIV. • RACHEL GABEL KYLE BETA ALPHA – COL SEC WH BOARD • WE WHO RECEIVE MUCH MUST GIVE MUCH EMILY LEWIS LEE Teresa Little TERESA LAURA LITTLE DELTA DELTA 1981 UNC CHAPEL HILL Sarah Lively ALPHA ALPHA SPRING ‘96, NM CLASS JA CF SL SS AW KW Christine Hoto Longyear JANE KINDERMAN SIGMA LOVE CHRIS LONGYEAR
Marianne MacDougall IN LOVING MEMORY BILLY MACDOUGALL FATHER OF AN ΕΞ ΣΣΣ Tracy Machtan KAYE E. SCHENDEL GAMMA PHI Michelle Maskaly MICHELLE MASKALY ETA NU 1C RAMAPO COLLEGE OF NJ Cynthia E. McCartney CYNTHIA E. MCCARTNEY ALPHA UPSILON Evelyn Dent McCort • EVELYN DENT MCCORT ALPHA UPSILON • UPSTATE SOUTH CAROLINA ALUMNAE CHAPTER Nancy Marks McCullough NANCY MARKS MCCULLOUGH BETA BETA Patricia Rahilly McDonald PATRICIA RAHILLY MCDONALD – BETA TAU 1982 Phyllis McIntyre • FLORENCE SEIDLER des ROSIERS BETA ZETA OMEGA • PHYLLIS SEIDLER MCINTYRE BETA ZETA Elizabeth Ann Mehr ELIZABETH MEHR BETA RHO Rebecca Meyer IN LOVING MEMORY STACY MOORE HAGAN LOVE ΣΣ Marion Kemp Miller JANE KEMP JOHNSON BETA ETA Lucille H. Mills LUCILLE H. MILLS ALPHA OMICRON Virginia Waring Minges VIRGINIA W. MINGES ALPHA UPSILON Tracy O’Shields Mitchell TRACY O’SHIELDS MITCHELL – GAMMA XI Margaret L. Moore • LUCILLE MORRISON OMICRON • NORMA CATON KITCHEN ZETA Patricia Buttino Morigi BETA CHI 1965 Barbara Jane Moss DR. JOHN LANGDON MOSS Nora Moushey NORA EYRE MOUSHEY KAPPA Mary Sue Nelson FERN JENNINGS FRUTCHEY ΑΥ NORTHERN VA ALUMNAE Marry Ellen Garber Otto SALLIE BYRD DOYLE ALPHA UPSILON TRUE SIGMA SISTER Virginia Pancake IN MEMORY ANNE PANCAKE ROMNEY, WV Kathryn Coppedge Parks KATHRYN C PARKS ALPHA THETA Luann Moody Parmelee LUANN MOODY PARMELEE DELTA DELTA
Lois Patterson LOIS WEAVER PATTERSON ALPHA ZETA 1981 Debra Frutchey Penn FERN JENNINGS FRUTCHEY ΑΥ NORTHERN VA ALUMNAE Cheryl Powell CHERYL COZART POWELL RHO Bonnie L. Rainey BONNIE L. RAINEY ALPHA SIGMA Diane Dixon Rausch DIANE DIXON RAUSCH TARA RAUSCH GODFREY Marie Androsevic Rees • CAROL JOAN (CJ) HAVLIK-DONOVAN BETA LAMBDA • DELTA XI LOYOLA MARYMOUNT UNIVERSITY Amy Repp GRAND RAPIDS MICHIGAN ALUMNAE CHAPTER Judith Chandler Richards JUDITH CHANDLER RICHARDS – ALPHA CHI 1963 Linda Ritter FRANKIE RITTER WAINWRIGHT KAPPA Cindy Robbins ETA NU RAMAPO COLLEGE 2004 Penny Robertson PENNY BROWNING ROBERTSON – ΑΑ ALUMNAE, VP Jodie Rudolph SHARON LEDBETTER 8/10/43 – 3/1/03 LOVE & MISS YOU MOM Hannah Salter ALPHA ZETA CHAPTER SIGMA SIGMA SIGMA Diana Sarber OKLAHOMA CITY ALUMNAE CHAPTER CHARTERED 06/22/01 Eileen Schafer IN HONOR OF THE LOS ANGELES ALUMNAE CHAPTER Katie Shaffer, Alpha Epsilon Chapter ALPHA EPSILON NORTHWEST MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY Lori Travis Schaefer PAMELA ANN KOELSCH ZETA ETA AND OMEGA Midge Barbee Schedlbauer MARY “NANA” BARBEE WE LOVE YOU MOTHER! Doris Hiles Schroeder DORIS HILES TABOR SCHROEDER ALPHA EPSILON Mary Madget Shelby ALPHA EPSILON Dixie Cremeans Shelton DIXIE CREMEANS SHELTON – ALPHA ALPHA HOUSTON ALUMNAE Bobbi Walker Smith FOREVER SIGMA BOBBI WALKER SMITH ΑΕ Christopher Smith TO MY LOVE KRISTIN YOURS FOREVER CHRIS 6/3/06 ΣΣΣ BETA PI
Iris Hudson Smith IRIS HUDSON SMITH PSI Wendy H. Smith EMMY SMITH MCKINNEY EPSILON PI LOVE MOM & DAD Donna White Snyder CHI Shirley Capp Spacapan SHIRLEY CAPP SPACAPAN BETA ALPHA Carrie Manuel Stalter CARRIE MANUEL STALTER – EPSILON PHI Elaine Collins Stephens • ELAINE COLLINS STEPHENS – PSI ‘57 • PHIL STEPHENS Charlotte Thompson Suhler CHARLOTTE THOMPSON SUHLER – ALPHA NU SOUTHERN ILLINOIS U. Laura Sunyak DANIELLE CALCADO ZETA OMICRON Cindy Dowd Tahlier CINDY DOWD BETA GAMMA Danielle Terry ALPHA MU 1931 UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA LAFAYETTE Kelly Thrush KELLY MAGEE THRUSH EPSILON PI PRESBYTERIAN COLLEGE Holly Tomlin WE LOVE YOU ΔΧ ΔΧ CLASS OF 2005 Ruth Turner RUTH DUFFEY TURNER UPSILON CHAPTER ADA, OKLAHOMA Angela Ugo OAKLAND CO. ALUMNAE CHAPTER – MICHIGAN FAITH, HOPE & LOVE Leon “Lee” Unrein • BRENDA HUGHES BLANCHARD – PI 1981 • JUNE GREEN UNREIN PI 1981 Kathleen DuBois Wachter GRAND RAPIDS MICH ALUMNAE CHAPTER Sally Wagoner BETA GAMMA MUNCIE, INDIANA Sue Wells Weaver SUE WELLS WEAVER PhD ALPHA ZETA 1965 EMILY GATES AWARD ‘06 Dorothy Wewe LAKELANDWINTER HAVEN ALUMNAE CHAPTER Carrie White • ALPHA SPRING 1998 SLP 1337 • THOMAS & CARRIE WHITE ALPHA 1337 Courtney White SJU DELTA PSI LOVES LINDA 18 YEARS OF LOYALTY Elizabeth Loczi White ELIZABETH LOCZI WHITE – BETA THETA Sandra Stone Whitehead SANDRA STONE WHITEHEAD ALPHA THETA
Beatrice Louisa Paspicil Whitmer PATRICIA L. MCDANIEL BETA KAPPA Nancy Parisi Wilda MARCELLA STEIL GREGG KAPPA Ann Buchler Williams • ANN WILLIAMS ΓΗ NATIONAL PRESIDENT 1989-1995 • MARIE SANTEE DUNHAM EXECUTIVE SECRETARY 1947-1974 • SKULLY LIVES LaVerne Wood LAVERNE WOOD PARROTT ALPHA UPSILON Teresa Gouge Woods Owens TERESA GOUGE DELTA TAU 1982 Crystal Youngdahl GAMMA PHI UW-RIVER FALLS Mary Zawacki CANTON-MASSILLON ALUMNAE CHAPTER Carol Zika JERI DOOLEY ALPHA ALPHA
Chapter Alpha Beta Chapter ALPHA BETA KENT STATE UNIV. 1925 Alpha Epsilon Sigma’s of the 1960s SIGMAS OF THE 1960’S ALPHA EPSILON Alpha Theta Chapter ALPHA THETA CHAPTER AT RADFORD UNIVERSITY Alpha Phi ALPHA PHI CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY Alpha Chi • ALPHA CHI MURRAY STATE UNIV. CHARTERED 1942 • JAN JONES WILSON ΑΧ BELOVED ADVISOR 1947-2006 Alpha Psi ALPHA PSI 2007 Gamma Beta SIGMA SIGMA SIGMA GAMMA BETA FOUNDED 1960 Gamma Mu, Southeastern LA Univ. GAMMA MU Delta Beta Chapter-Elon Univ. DELTA BETA CHAPTER ELON UNIVERSITY, NC FOUNDED 1970 Delta Nu Chapter DELTA NU Delta Omicron Chapter DELTA OMICRON GETTYSBURG COLLEGE GETTYSBURG, PA Epsilon Rho Chapter • “CHANCE MADE US SISTERS, HEARTS MADE US FRIENDS!” EPSILON RHO • IN MEMORY GEA MAE STANGER EPSILON RHO Zeta Pi ZETA PI VIRGINIA WESLEYAN COLLEGE
Zeta Theta ZETA THETA IDAHO STATE 2006 Eta Rho WAY TO GO ETA RHO! EVER FORWARD 2007 OFFICER BOARD Iota Chapter Alumna • IOTA 1915-1972 • IOTA 1953-1956 • IOTA 1960 Nu Chapter JOANN CLARK COOPER NU Omicron Chapter OMICRON 2004 Chi Chapter • IN MEMORY OF KACEY LAYNE FIESER CHI • MELANIE ANN SANDLIN CHI
Alumnae Chapter Central Florida Alumnae Chapter CENTRAL FLORIDA ALUMNAE CHAPTER 1945 Chicago North Shore Alumnae Chapter A TREASURED SISTER MARY SIMPSON KAISER THANKS CNS ALUMNAE Cincinnati Alumnae Chapter CINCINNATI ALUMNAE CHAPTER Cleveland Alumnae Chapter MARY BARBEE, Ι FROM CLEVELAND ALUMNAE Colorado Springs Alumnae Chapter COLORADO SPRINGS ALUMNAE CHAPTER Dallas Alumnae DALLAS, TEXAS ALUMNAE – 2004 Dallas Alumnae Chapter • DALLAS ALUMNAE 2005 • DALLAS ALUMNAE CHAPTER 2006 • MARGARET MUNGER AT FOUNDERS AWARD 2007 DALLAS GOLDEN VIOLET Dayton Alumnae Chapter JANE VERBRYCK SCHEMP OMEGA MAY 28, 2006 Denver Alumnae Chapter • DENVER AREA ALUMNAE CHAPTER FOUNDED: 1921 • DENVER AREA ALUMNAE CHAPTER FOUNDED: 1921 • DENVER AREA ALUMNAE CHAPTER FOUNDED: 1921 Edmond Alumnae Chapter EDMOND OKLAHOMA ALUMNAE CHAPTER STEADFAST IN 2007 Fort Wayne, Indiana Alumnae Chapter FORT WAYNE, INDIANA ALUMNAE CHAPTER Grand Strand Alumnae IN MEMORY JOYCE DIBBLE GODFREY GRAND STRAND ALUMNAE
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Sisterhood Walk, Continued Houston Alumnae Chapter • HOUSTON ALUMNAE HONOR GOLDEN VIOLETS • HOUSTON, TEXAS ALUMNAE CHAPTER • IN MEMORY ELIZABETH GORE – MU HOUSTON ALUMNAE Indianapolis Suburban Alumnae Chapter • INDIANA CHAPTERS ΑΗ, ΒΓ, ΔΗ, ΕΞ • INDIANAPOLIS SUBURBAN ALUMNAE CHAPTER Inland Empire Alumnae Chapter INLAND EMPIRE ALUMNAE CHAPTER Jose Peninsula Alumnae Chapter THE SISTERS OF THE SAN JOSE PENINSULA ALUMNAE CHAPTER Linda Elliott Mills & Patricia Cunningham Elliott SAM! NAGEL EPSILON THETA Long Beach Alumnae Chapter • IN LOVING MEMORY KATHRYN BELLMAN HITE ΑΓ LONG BEACH ALUMNA • LONG BEACH CA ALUMNAE FOUNDERS 1949
Maryville Alumnae Chapter MARZELLA CLARY HOUGHTON ΑΕ 75 YEAR MEMBER Milwaukee Alumnae Chapter MILWAUKEE ALUMNAE CHAPTER Muncie Alumnae BARBARA ZIMMACK STEADFAST IN TRI SIGMA New Jersey Shore Alumnae Chapter NEW JERSEY SHORE ALUMNAE CHAPTER FOUNDED 8/3/1989 New Orleans Alumnae Chapter NEW ORLEANS ALUMNAE CHAPTER North Jersey Alumnae Chapter • ELIZABETH W. HOFFERT ΒΞ ALUMNAE VP • NORTH JERSEY ALUMNAE CHAPTER Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter NORTHERN VIRGINIA ALUMNAE CHAPTER Northwest Suburban Alumnae Chapter NORTHWEST SUBURBAN ALUMNAE CHAPTER Patricia Hobson King and Pauline W. Stewart PATRICIA HOBSON KING PAULINE W. STEWART
• NELDA CRAWFORD, A NATIONAL PRESIDENT 1965-1971 • RHEA SCOTT, Α NATIONAL PRESIDENT 1903-1908 • SALLIE MICHIE FOUNDER • SUSANNE STINSON, Ο HISTORIAN 1952-1956 Walton House Board CARRIE UNDERWOOD ALPHA IOTA AMERICAN IDOL Mary “Mimi” Hiner, Janet Horner, Marilyn Beiter, Tammy Hardesty, Pickett Pat Whitney Lema, Martha Ott, Alma Lewis, Nancy Greenwood, Carla Lange, Susan Tucker-Monroe HAPPY 80th BIRTHDAY CHARLOTTE SMOYER MYKLEBUST – NU Sandra Bohatka, Susan Chan, Barbara Dyar, Patricia Rike, Karen Schwarz, Nancy Wendrowski CRÈME DE LA CRÈME KAPPA Suzan Bosarge & Michelle Keller BIG SIS – LIL SIS SUZAN BOSARGE MICHELLE KELLER
• HELEN MARIE SNYDER ΑΧ NATIONAL PRESIDENT 1971-1983 • ISABELLA MERRICK FOUNDER • JANE KINDERMAN EXECUTIVE SECRETARY 1974-1989 • LELIA SCOTT FOUNDER • LOUISE DAVIS FOUNDER • LUCY STUBBS, Α FIRST Δ EDITOR 1905 • LUCY WRIGHT FOUNDER • MABEL LEE WALTON, Γ NATIONAL PRESIDENT 1913-1947 • MABLE KANE STRYKER PI • MARGARET BATTEN FOUNDER • MARGARET DIXON, Σ NATIONAL PRESIDENT 1956-1965 • MARIGALE BRIGGS BETA EPSILON BELOVED SISTER • MARTHA FEATHERSTON FOUNDER • MARY HASTINGS PAGE NATIONAL PRESIDENT 1947-1956 • MARY K BARBEE, IOTA NATIONAL PRESIDENT 2001-2004 • MIMI HINER ΒΞ NATIONAL PRESIDENT 1983-1989 • NATALIE LANCASTER ALPHA 1899
Phoenix Alumnae Chapter PHOENIX ALUMNAE CHAPTER Sarasota/Manatee Florida Alumnae Chapter IN MEMORY SISTER AND FRIEND JOYCE DIBBLE GODFREY Sunshine Alumnae Chapte SUNSHINE ALUMNAE CHAPTER TUCSON, AZ Tulsa Alumnae Chapter TULSA, OKLAHOMA ALUMNAE CHAPTER Twin Cities Alumnae Chapter TWIN CITIES ALUMNAE CHAPTER Utah Alumnae Chapter ZETA IOTA
Other Sigma Sigma Sigma • BESS WILLIS G NATIONAL PRESIDENT 1908-1913 • DIANA SARBER ΒΜ NATIONAL PRESIDENT 1995-2001 • EDDIE SCHMIDT ΞΙ • ELIZABETH WATKINS FOUNDER • EMILY GATES ZETA • EMILY LEWIS LEE ALPHA UPSILON • HELEN CARTRIGHT IOTA
Suzan Bosarge, Michelle Keller, Jen Cestaro & Wendy Kirkpatrick MDD/ADD SISTAS BOSARGE, CESTARO KELLER & KIRKPATRICK Dolores Novoselski, Amanda Herp, Pricilla Curran, Allene Hazeltine, Elizabeth Cole, Hilda Haas, Margaret Wilhelmi, Cynthia Xenick, Sandra Ramsden, Polly Horne and Pinellas County Alumnae Chapter TO REMEMBER JOYCE DIBBLE GODFREY NU Jane Pohlman, Joyce Dohrmann, Virginia Winter-Moellenhoff IN MEMORY ESTELLE WINDHORST ALPHA LAMBDA Laura Sweet and Violet W. Jackson VIOLET W. JACKSON The Kickenweitz & Manhardt Families TERRI & MICHELLE KICKENWEITZ ZETA KAPPA Anonymous ETA OMICRON SAM HOUSTON STATE UNIVERSITY – 2002
HONOR SPECIAL SIGMAS OR BE REMEMBERED!
Sisterhood Walk RETURN TO: Walton House 225 North Muhlenberg St. Woodstock, VA 22664-1424
Name: first
middle
last
Address: street
city
YES! I want
Phone:
to help restore Walton House
For Brick:
state
zip
E-mail:
My contribution is:
Please make checks payable to Sigma Sigma Sigma Walton House. For each $125 contributed, a brick will be named in the Sisterhood Walk. With contributions of $125 or more, please designate who should be remembered or honored on your brick.
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Please clearly print inscription as you want it to appear on the brick. Each 4"x 8" brick may have three lines of text with 20 characters per line. Characters include letters, numbers, spaces and punctuation. All sentiments will be in ALL CAPS. Sorry, due to IRS regulations, this is not a tax-deductible contribution.
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our leadership
The 2008 Alumnae/ Collegiate Advisory Committee Meets
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Once again, representatives from some of our award winning alumnae and collegiate chapters gathered with Executive Council members as part of the 2008 Alumnae/Collegiate Advisory Committee (A/CAC). This year, the A/CAC met in conjunction with North Carolina’s Tri-State State Days held at the University of North Carolina-Greensboro.
National President Laura Sweet was on hand to update A/CAC members on the Strategic Plan and other crucial initiatives within (Front Row): Ashley Ladyman, Kayla Pitcher, the organization. She asked each Constance Owen, Jamie Stewart of us to be forward thinking, (2nd Row): Carolyn Wallisch, Lorin Phillips, Cierra Sesser (3rd Row): Cindy Drasler, Emily Ellis, Whitney Fliehman positive, thought provoking Tri (4th Row): Linda Clayton, Marcia Cutter, Sigma members as an advisory Laura Sweet, Mandy Chocheles council to Executive Council. And everyone certainly came armed for a productive weekend. Collegiate representatives broke away from the group to talk about current services and programs, suggest needed support and resources, share pressing issues facing our youngest members, and brainstorm ideas for the transition to active alumnae life. They summed up their experience by indicating, “It is astounding the impact Tri Sigma continues to have on the lives of alumnae women. This experience has been truly inspiring and humbling for each of the collegiate members and we are so appreciative of the opportunity it has provided.” Not to be outdone, the alumnae representatives got busy and talked about ways to encourage graduating seniors to stay involved, increase alumnae initiation, and re-engage alumnae. The need for a national service project relating to “Sigma Serves Children” or “Sigma Serves Children of
the World” was raised, as well as the need to continue recognizing our most devoted Sisters, our Golden Violets. New programs like a ‘Lost and Found,’ ‘Sigma One-on-One,’ and ‘One Shot Deals’ were suggested. Sigmas ended the weekend by attending the closing session of the Tri-State State Days and enjoying an evening of bowling and Sisterhood with the women of Epsilon Nu. But throughout the weekend, the uppermost thought in each of our minds was, “What can I do for Tri Sigma to help make it a better organization and continue to be a relevant part in women’s lives?”
Thank you to the following participants: Executive Council Laura Sweet, Alpha Sigma, National President Mandy Chocheles, Gamma Eta, Alumnae Vice President Emily Ellis, Gamma Beta, Collegiate Vice President A/CAC Members Carolyn Wallisch, Iota, Denver, Alumnae Chapter of the Year Linda Clayton, Omicron, Western Wayne-Washtenaw, Excellence in Overall Programming Cindy Drasler, Beta Kappa, Emily Gates Alumna Achievement Jamie Stewart, Alpha Chi, Chapter of the Year Kayla Pitcher, Alpha Zeta, Outstanding Recruitment Program Constance Owen, Beta Xi, Ritual and Values Programming Cierra Sesser, Epsilon Alpha, Jane E. Kinderman Standards of Efficiency Whitney Fliehman, Epsilon Nu, Member Development & Educational Programming Ashley Ladyman, Zeta Pi, Mabel Lee Walton Leadership Award National Headquarters Staff Marcia Cutter, Beta Gamma, Executive Director Lorin Phillips, Alpha Upsilon, Director of Chapter Services
Please refer to our Web site (www.trisigma.org) for a complete copy of the 2008 A/CAC Report. Summer 2009 | T h e T r i a n g l e
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Change. It May Be in the Air for Tri Sigma The committee’s charge was to assess our current organizational structure and provide a new framework upon which to build an organization that is committed to being the very best it can be.
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Often times when we think about change, it evokes negative feelings. But if the work the Organizational Structure Committee has proposed is approved by the 2010 Convention body, it may well mean we will enter a new era for Tri Sigma, one in which we will continue to grow, to thrive, and to strengthen our organization. In February 2007, a group gathered at Walton House to discuss what optimal collegiate and alumnae support would look like if we aligned volunteer and paid staff resources to support the growth of the national organization. The results of this meeting provided a foundation and framework upon which our Executive Council developed our strategic plan (see www. sigmasigmasigma.org/Today.mvc/ The Future/TheNextFiveYears). National President Laura Sweet appointed an Organizational Structure Committee at the 2007 Convention. The committee’s charge was to assess our organiza-
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tional structure and provide a new framework upon which to build an organization that is committed to being the very best it can be. Restructuring the Organization So, what does this effort mean specifically for Tri Sigma, and what would our organization look like? Committee members have begun the process of aligning our collegiate department by hiring a Director of Chapter Services and two Regional Directors. Additionally, we have Regional Support Teams in place that provide direct service to our collegiate chapters. The plan allows for the promotion of our Regional Directors to Assistant Directors of Chapter Services, who, in turn, will be supported by Regional Support Teams. Further, the committee is suggesting that our Alumnae Advisory Boards (AABs) be renamed Chapter Advisory Boards (CABs) with the ultimate goal of devoting more resources to these boards to provide even greater support to our chapters.
Recently, our Sorority completed the Fraternity/Sorority Experience Survey. Preliminary findings have shown that chapters with significant alumnae involvement perform better in many areas than those chapters who do not have alumnae support. We have also hired a Director of Programs whose primary role is to develop and deliver a comprehensive set of educational programs for our entire membership. Specific focus will be given to our volunteers who serve in Chapter Advisory Board capacities, collegiate and alumnae members, other national officer volunteers, and resource personnel. The committee proposes hiring two new staff positions. First, a Director of Marketing/Communications. This individual would have as her primary responsibility the management and coordination of extension and colonies as well as all Web-based initiatives and The Triangle. She would also support the Archivist. The committee also recommends hiring a Director of
Alumnae and Volunteer Services. This individual would work to recruit and sustain Tri Sigma’s volunteer base, coordinate our alumnae chapters, and manage our Golden Violet program. The Sorority now has approximately 378 individuals serving in a volunteer capacity and needs to be diligent in its efforts to grow that number to remain a volunteer-driven organization while providing optimal resources to its membership.
sight responsibilities for the Sorority. Individual job descriptions would be replaced by a summary of knowledge, skills, and attributes required for a diverse and balanced board. In this model, Council would define “what” the organizational goals and outcomes should be, but would delegate to professional staff, who would work with trained volunteers to implement “how” these goals should be accomplished.
Finally, the structure of Tri Sigma’s Executive Council would change. Our current Executive Council is an operational style board. This means each council member not only participates in planning and goal setting for the entire organization but is also responsible for specific operational areas. Each Council member directs the activities and supervises the volunteers within her assigned area. The Executive Council members’ collective job description and title reflects her responsibilities. It is important to note that in an operational style board, Executive Council members not only define “what” the organization goals and outcomes should be, but also direct and participate in “how” these goals are accomplished.
Our new Executive Council would spend significant time and energy on realizing our organizational mission, purpose, and vision while preserving and promoting the core values of our organization as espoused by our ritual. Council would continue to serve as the governing body of our organization between conventions and continue to be responsible for decision-making on time-sensitive matters. Council members would also provide support to the Executive Director, review her performance, and provide feedback.
In the proposed policy governance model, all Executive Council members would participate in long-term planning and goal setting for the organization and work together to determine the desired outcomes for all areas of Tri Sigma. With the exception of the National President and the National Treasurer, all Executive Council members would serve in a general capacity with broader over-
Looking Toward the Future The committee recommends, for the 2010-2013 triennium, appointing a National President, National Treasurer, and four National Vice Presidents to serve on the Executive Council. The National Panhellenic Delegate would report to Executive Council. For the 2013-2016 triennium, the committee proposes the Executive Council be comprised of a National President, National Treasurer, and three National Vice Presidents, with the National Panhellenic Delegate appointed by Executive Council. In this model, the National Panhellenic Delegate would
serve as an ex-officio member of Executive Council with a voice but no vote. The proposed reduction in size would allow the Executive Council to be more streamlined and efficient, but a transition phase is recommended. Additionally, the committee proposes new term limits for Executive Council members. Council members may now serve for no more than 15 years with nine of those years being in one position. The committee recommends decreasing to nine the maximum total number of years of service on Executive Council. Tri Sigma needs to consider its mission, vision, and strategic plan to determine if its members are providing necessary and significant resources to foster growth and carry out the Sorority’s mission. Additionally, members need to improve and maximize our volunteer service, retention, and commitment while strengthening collaborative and working relationships. We also need to assure the stability of the organization by ensuring we continue to have qualified and dedicated candidates for our Executive Council and key leadership positions. And finally, we need to provide greater support for our entire membership – both collegiate and alumnae – to continue to build the foundation and the very core of our organization. Seeking Input As mentioned, the 2010 Convention body will have the opportunity to review, contribute, and ultimately determine the fate of many of these proposed changes.
If you have questions about the proposal, you can get more information at www.sigmasigmasigma.org/ Today.mvc/The Future/OrganizationalStructureCommitteeChargeandReport or by contacting Kaye Schendel, Organizational Structure Committee Chair, at schendel.kaye@uwlax.edu. We value and are seeking your feedback, suggestions, and comments. Summer 2009 | T h e T r i a n g l e 37
our leadership
Executive Council Nomination Process
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Convention 2010 is inching “Ever Forward.” Plans are well underway, and July 2010 will prove to be an exciting and momentous time for Tri Sigma. One of the most important and exciting items of business conducted at Convention is the election of the Executive Council. Every triennium brings change – some Conventions bring change that is vibrant, challenging, and has the potential to position Sigma Sigma Sigma for an exciting future. Such is the case with the 2010 Convention as we embark on new possibilities by considering a major restructuring in the leadership of our organization. Please be sure to refer to the article, “Change. It May Be in the Air for Tri Sigma,” for details on changes that will be proposed. These proposals also impact our planning for the slate of officers to be recommended to the Convention. This is your chance to be a change-maker! How does the nominating process work? The process begins with the appointment of a Nominating Committee comprised of: • • • •
Former Executive Council Member – Chairman Two Current National Officers One Alumnae Representative One Collegiate Representative
The committee provides information about the nominating process and a recommendation form to all Sigmas through articles in The Triangle, collegiate and alumnae mailings, and other communications. The committee secures detailed resumés from each member nominated and conducts phone interviews. After careful evaluation, a slate of officers is prepared and is presented at Convention for a vote by the Convention delegates. Further nominations may be made from the Convention floor. What qualifications are necessary for Executive Council service? The following list outlines essential criteria for women serving on the Executive Council: • Membership and knowledge of Sigma Sigma Sigma • Working knowledge of Sigma Sigma Sigma policies and procedures • Commitment to the values, mission, and philosophy of Sigma Sigma Sigma
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• • • • • •
Strong decision-making skills Ability to think strategically Willingness to listen and learn Good oral and written communication skills Knowledge and support of Tri Sigma Foundation Ability to commit 20 hours a week and travel 15-20 days per year on average
Utilizing the above criteria, Executive Council members will: • Determine and periodically review the organization’s mission, purpose, and vision, ensuring that all policy decisions, programs, and services reflect the mission • Serve as the supreme governing body between Conventions • Ensure legal and ethical integrity, and maintain accountability • Select and support the Executive Director (ED), regularly reviewing her performance • Provide sound financial management and ensure effective organizational planning • Enhance the organization’s public standing • Recruit and orient new Council members and assess Council performance What positions are available? In anticipation of the proposed changes being passed, the Nominating Committee plans to slate for the following offices: National President, National Treasurer, and four National Vice Presidents. In the event the proposal should not pass, the committee will be prepared to slate candidates for the offices as they currently stand. Current Council members do not automatically continue in their office and must participate in the process just as other nominees do. They may also decide not to seek re-election because they have completed the current term limits, due to career or family commitments, or for personal reasons. How do you make a nomination? As a Tri Sigma, you have the privilege to recommend to the Nominating Committee any member in good standing who would serve well as an Executive Council officer and who meets the requirements for service. Before you submit a nomination, you must ask that woman’s permission. Only one nomination for each candidate is needed. Campaigning by asking others to recommend the same woman is unnecessary and inappropriate.
To participate in the nominating process, use the following form to recommend qualified women for Executive Council office. Forms must be received no later than NOVEMBER 6, 2009, and should be mailed or e-mailed to: Nominating Committee Sigma Sigma Sigma National Headquarters 225 N. Muhlenberg Woodstock, VA 22664 Or e-mail to: ECNominations@trisigma.org www.sigmasigmasigma.org/TriSigmaToday
I recommend for the Nominating Committee’s consideration: Name (First/Maiden/Last) __________________________________________________________________________ Address (Street/City/State/Zip) ______________________________________________________________________ Phone __________________________________E-mail __________________________________________________ Collegiate Chapter _______________________Date Initiated ____________________________________________ Alumnae Chapter ________________________________________________________________________________ Office for which you are nominating this woman______________________________________________________ Sigma National Offices held (Required)_______________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Have you received permission from this woman to nominate her? (Required) ________________________________ Comment on your reasons for nomination ___________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Submitted by: Name (First/Maiden/Last) __________________________________________________________________________ Address (Street/City/State/Zip) ______________________________________________________________________ Phone __________________________________ E-mail __________________________________________________ Collegiate Chapter _______________________Date Initiated ____________________________________________ Alumnae Chapter ________________________________________________________________________________
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omega chapter
Omega Chapter During the period from December 1, 2008 – March 31, 2009, the following Tri Sigmas were reported to have entered Omega Chapter. We offer our sympathy to their friends and families and honor them for their lifetime commitment to Tri Sigma. Zeta Edith L. Morse – Golden Violet
Alpha Kappa Fairy Alice Downs
Omicron Nancy Lobdell Penrod
Alpha Lambda Carol Rodman Jennings Edna Louise Mausshardt
Rho Lois Douthit Epperson
Alpha Xi Germaine M. Blaskey Jane Dietzman Lorraine Blank King Golden Violet
Psi Virginia Pack Ashworth Alpha Gamma Mary Anne Locker Shirley Britt Mick
Member badges are the property of Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority. 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 h er badge may be buried with her or returned to the National Headquarters. A badge should never be sold by any means. The National Treasurer is the official custodian of Sigma Sigma Sigma badges.
Gamma Xi Doris Kellenbarger Wenger
Beta Alpha Kay Stripe Lahti
Alpha Theta Joyce Mercer Reynders
Beta Delta Ruth Power Thacher Beta Mu Sherrye Ables Wade
Alpha Upsilon Dorothy P. Pitts Helen Slaughter Potts
Alpha Delta Mary Newman Buehler
Beta Gamma Lisa Mucker Kolodziej Mildred Miller Meese – Golden Violet Oreda Rarick Richards – Golden Violet
Delta Delta Janet Lea Johnson Zeta Gamma Lynnsey Dawn Dennis
Beta Beta Mary Houser Hawkins
Alpha Iota Marilyn McLaury Kelsey Margaret Kinkade Starr
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To order, go to
www.HJGreek.com 40
T h e T r i a n g l e | Summer 2009
or call
1.800.422.4348