At Convention 2024 I was honored to receive the inaugural Loyalty and Commitment Award, given to a Zeta who has attended many Conventions and is active in the Fraternity but has not served on the three national boards.
I came by my love of ZTA naturally. My mother, Kitty Phelps Seitz (Beta Alpha Chapter, George Washington University), was active in the Washington, DC Alumnae Chapter and served as District President. Growing up I knew many of her Zeta friends. I could see how much it meant to them, and a ZTA chapter was a must in my college choice.
After being a member of the Lafayette, IN Alumnae Chapter while I was in graduate school, I returned home and joined the DC alumnae group. A year later I was elected Treasurer and have served the chapter in some capacity ever since, mostly as what is now VP Finance. I cherish my involvement with the chapter.
Seated (from left): Rhonda and Louise Porter, Kitty Seitz, Mildred Galloway, Helen Madinger. Back (from left): Cheryl Porter, Bobby Turnbull, Nelly Galloway Shearer, Marla Madinger.
Recipient of 2024 inaugural Loyalty and Commitment Award, attendee of 26 Conventions NATIONAL
Natalie Yingling Lisko, Delta Omega
Casey Guimbellot Pash, Iota Chi
I always enjoy attending Conventions. My first was in 1966 when I went as a collegiate visitor. I became National Recorder in 1974 and started going again, and I have missed only one since then. Over the years I have met women from across the country who have become friends—some were also friends of my mother. It is fun seeing them every two years and participating in all the activities and excitement.
In the early 1970s I was the Diamond Anniversary Chairman for our District. The Diamond Anniversary Fund raised money for a permanent loan fund for collegiate housing leading up to the 75th anniversary of ZTA. This led to my continuing contributions to the ZTA Foundation. When my father left money to the Foundation in memory of my mother and in my honor, I was fortunate to be able to add enough to create an endowed scholarship in mother’s name.
I am the unofficial archivist for our chapter, as was my mother. We both saved old records and other items over the years. When the chapter was selling Kinzie Twi-Lite Candles (a national campaign for ZTA) for the DAF, they were stored in Mother’s basement and the remainder later migrated to mine, as did all the other ZTA memorabilia she had. Items from other members also came to me, as did our chapter scrapbooks. We had a great time going through all these records prior to our recent 100th Anniversary celebration and remembering the members who went before us.
I encourage all alumnae to participate in a chapter and to attend Convention if given the opportunity. You won’t regret it.
BOBBY SEITZ TURNBULL Alpha Theta Chapter, Purdue University
It’s a new biennium and exciting things are happening as our sisterhood moves forward with optimism.
Gamma Pi (The University of Georgia) collegians celebrate as they receive the Helen Margaret Harrison Award for the most outstanding collegiate chapter.
Sisters gathered in Indianapolis, Indiana, for a final recognition of 125 years of ZTA. Get a day-by-day recap of all the sisterhood and celebrations.
Two sisters share memories from their first Convention as a collegian...one in 1974 and the other in 2024. Both events celebrated noteworthy Zeta Tau Alpha anniversaries.
VOLUME 123 NUMBER 1
FALL 2024
1036 S. Rangeline Road Carmel, IN 46032 (317) 872–0540 zetataualpha@zetataualpha.org
STAFF
Creative Manager
Kahlie Cannon Day
Staff Writer/Copy Editor
Lisa Perry, Alpha Upsilon
Senior Director of Communication
Ashley Sherman
Contributors
Patti Cords Levitte, Beta Phi
Hannah Newman, Zeta Lambda
Membership
Survey
The ZTA Membership Survey provides a research-based look at our collegians and what they’re looking to get out of their membership experience. It allows ZTA to make data-driven decisions about programming, practices and processes at the national and collegiate chapter levels.
Here are some insights from the 2024 Membership Survey:
#WeAreZTA
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
@ztafraternity |
@alabama_zta Reminiscing on the BEST week at the 125th ZTA convention!! ����
Nu is so excited to announce that we were awarded with one of the top honors in ZTA with the Collegiate Social Media Marketing Silver Award, the Crown Chapter award, and we were recognized by the ZTA Foundation for raising over $225,000 for Breast Cancer Education and Awareness!! We feel so encouraged and cannot wait to see what our chapter accomplishes throughout this next year!!!
The primary reason women are motivated to join ZTA is to find and build a sense of belonging
@ztajax @ztafraternity convention thus far!! No shortage of group photos, that’s for sure!! ����
8 out of 10 collegians expressed being highly satisfied with their chapter experience!
Collegiate sisters attribute their satisfaction to the sense of belonging they’ve built, genuine and authentic sisters and the fun chapter experiences
out your chapter in the comments!
Our President and VP of Recruitment had the most amazing time representing Eta Alpha at ZTA’s International Convention in Indianapolis! Our girls spent time with other collegiate officers from chapters across the country, attended a sisterhood to celebrate the fraternity’s 125th birthday, and cheered on sisters for their many accomplishments over the past biennium.
When asked about their favorite parts of #ZTACOVENTION24 , here’s what our sisters had to say:
“Seeing how many tears were shed, laughs were shared, and bonds I built in just a few days, locks in the sisterhood that is so dear to me. I loved being able to represent my chapter and university in our flag processional!” - Peyton, VP of Recruitment ��
“This was my 2nd convention as a collegiate sister, and I didn’t know I could fall more in love with this organization and these women, and I did just that. I will cherish the conversations I had with so many alumnae who embody that Zeta Tau Alpha is forever and not just for four years in college.” -Khyia, President ��
@ztauwosh we are on ☁ 9 after convention 2024!!
We are so thankful for the lifelong learning and Zeta love this weekend in Indianapolis p.s. cannot wait for Convention 2026 in Palm Springs! ����
#zetataualpha #zlam #summer
@virginiazta Our Virginia sisters are representing the Old Dominion state in style at Convention 2024! Shout
Convention 2024 kicked off a new biennium, and we are ready! Exciting things are happening as Zeta Tau Alpha continues to move forward. We are implementing a new volunteer structure to meet the needs of our Fraternity. We continue to support our collegiate chapters as they share our sisterhood with new members. We want to encourage our alumnae to stay connected to ZTA. We will never stop reminding alumnae and collegians alike that Zeta Is Forever!
The three Zeta Tau Alpha entities are something to be envied. The ZTA Foundation remains committed to education and lifelong learning, awarding $1.3 million in scholarships for the current academic year. We Think Pink® as shown by the Foundation’s recent $1.25 million grant to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. The ZTA Fraternity Housing Corporation creates welcoming places where sisterhood can flourish and members feel at home. While the Fraternity, Foundation and FHC each celebrate its individual
success, the relationship among all three is what makes us stronger.
Even as our Founders were shaping the core values and makeup of our Fraternity, they were as optimistic and forward-thinking as we are today. In a 1910 letter, Maud Jones Horner wrote: “Yes, we had to steal up the stairs one by one, looking like convicts, instead of girls who were striving with all their might and main to establish a strong and loyal sisterhood that was destined to make its impression on the millions who are to follow its loyal teachings and principles.”
We are still developing those millions to come. Each member brings her own unique personality and perspective to our sisterhood, which reinforces our commitment to the vision of Zeta Tau Alpha and all its members.
What does our path into the future look like? In a 1971 message to our ZTA members published in Themis, Ruby Leigh Orgain nailed it. “When Alice in Wonderland asked which way she ought to walk from here, she was told that it depended a great deal on
where she wanted to get to. So, as Zetas, we want to keep a sense of direction and the meaning of true values in our everyday behavior—not only for ourselves, but for those whose lives we touch with influence.”
Given under my hand and seal, I proclaim the fifteenth day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand and twenty-four, as our 126th Founders’ Day.
DINAH JACKSON LAUGHERY National President
Austin, Texas October 2024
Philanthropy
$1.25 million to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation
Scholarship
Grants fund 3 key areas of research, focusing on:
• Artificial Intelligence
• Mammography Data
• Prevention and Early Detection Donors
$1.3 million in scholarships to more than 450 undergraduate and graduate members for the 2024-2025 academic year
79 scholarship recipients in attendance at Convention
living lifetime giving society members
42 lifetime giving members at Convention
Founders Club
• 37 individual alumnae
• 14 alumnae chapters
• 116 collegiate chapters
TREASURES IN UNEXPECTED PLACES
A collection of historic clothing enhances Fraternity archives
By: Patti Cords Levitte, ZTA Archivist
An amazing donation was made to the ZTA Archives in February 2024 that has added so much context to our early ZTA history. Lisbon Davis Hardy contacted International Office with news that she had a large collection of items to donate, and she felt they were important because “...my grandmother was involved in the founding of Zeta.” Mrs. Hardy is the granddaughter of Bruce Houston Davis, ZTA’s second Grand President, and because Bruce passed away in 1943, she never met her. A collection of family items had been stored with another family member and recently turned over to Lisbon, and she wanted to send things to institutions where their historical value could be appreciated by others. Mrs. Hardy was the president of her Delta Delta Delta chapter in the 1970s at Transylvania University in Lexington, Kentucky, so she understood the importance of early ZTA documents and photos. The family saved many items from their ancestors and just happened to have a large number of things related to ZTA. Arrangements were made to drive to Frankfort, Kentucky, to see what kind of ZTA history might be in this collection.
Walking into the Hardy house was like stepping into the storeroom of a museum—there were papers, photos, textiles and objects covering every available surface. An entire day was spent sorting through the collection to find things related to ZTA, with the other items being organized for the University of Kentucky to take for its archives.
There was a large collection of textiles dating back to Bruce’s years at the State Female Normal School, including complete outfits that would have been worn in college. Although they were in very rough shape and many pieces were extremely fragile, there were linen blouses, cotton skirts and dresses that dated back to the founding of ZTA.
Restoration of these items was a months-long process, involving weeks of soaking in archival enzyme cleanser to remove decades of stains and odors. Some pieces needed to be deconstructed to restore elements like lace and crochet trim, and to
Most of the garment pieces needed to have archival stabilizer attached to the interior of pieces to stop them from crumbling or shattering. Luckily, many of the garments were linen, a sturdy natural fabric that can survive centuries with proper care. Having examples of clothing that were worn at the State Female Normal School, and most likely borrowed and worn by the Founders, was incredibly exciting. Due to their fragility, they will be displayed in the Historical and Educational Center at International Office on a rotating basis.
Another important find were the original copies of most of the photos of Bruce that had been used in the first printing of The History of Zeta Tau Alpha in 1928. We never had originals of these, only copies to work from. The actual photos show so much more depth and detail and have notes from Bruce on the backs of all of them, most likely to help Shirley Kreasan Krieg Strout as she was writing The History.
There were scrapbooks from Bruce’s college days at the State Female Normal School, with souvenirs from the earliest ZTA activities in Alpha Chapter. There were many photographs of Bruce at the SFNS that had never been seen before. A wonderful one is Bruce leaning on the counter in a chemistry lab at the SFNS, and the only note on the
back of the photo is “so hard!” These photos show a different, more casual side of the earliest Zetas, and are proof that college struggles, events and entertainment back then have equivalents in today’s college culture. Both of her scrapbooks are packed with invitations and dance cards from nearby fraternities and men’s colleges to show Bruce’s extensive social life.
The Lisbon Davis Hardy collection will be rotated into the Historical and Educational Center on an ongoing basis, as the collection is catalogued and items undergo conservation work. We can’t thank Mrs. Hardy enough for thinking about our ZTA history and being willing to place her family’s history into the ZTA Archives for future generations of Zetas to learn from and enjoy.
SpotlightVolunteer
By Lisa Perry, Staff Writer/Copy Editor
Kerry Diminuco
Alpha Omicron Chapter, The University of Iowa
Current volunteer positions:
Alumnae National Officer XV-A, Membership Advisor for Alpha Omicron
A favorite moment for Kerry: “I loved getting to help a group of sisters restart their alumnae chapter! They came in with so much energy and excitement for ZTA and worked really hard to engage Zetas from all across the country. In just two short years, they’ve turned into one of the largest and most active in our state.” On volunteering, she says, “I love being able to give back and share my love for ZTA with others. We had a small but mighty support team when I was a collegian and watching how much they poured into our chapter was inspiring. I knew that I wanted to be able to do the same as an alumna.”
Fun fact: Growing up, Kerry was a member of U.S. Figure Skating and competed on what is now known as a Synchronized Skating team.
Iota Omega Chapter, University of Maryland
Harm Reduction Coordinator, General Advisor for Iota Omega
Lauren was recently recognized by National Council with an Outstanding Advisor Award, though she was unable to be at Convention to receive it in person. “In advising, mentoring and leading workshops with collegians I feel that I’m paying it forward while helping them to grow in positive ways,” she says. “As the GA at Iota Omega, it is so fulfilling to give back to the chapter that gave me so much as a collegian.” She adds, “Volunteering really
Fun fact: Lauren is right at home in a university atmosphere. She’s currently a doctoral candidate at UMD studying women administrators in higher education.
Sylvia Contreras
Theta Phi Chapter, California State University, Fullerton Current volunteer positions: President of Long Beach, CA Chapter, VP Finance of North Orange County, CA Chapter, General Advisor and Programming Advisor for Theta Phi
Sylvia’s auto license plate reads: ZTAALUM, and she is living it! Sylvia spends time serving in officer leadership of two alumnae groups and she’s also working with a university chapter in two roles. Sylvia says, “I love when the collegians have that ‘a-ha’ moment and they see the bigger picture.” Why volunteer? “I want to give back to an organization that has given me so many opportunities, laughter and sisterhood.”
Fun fact: Sylvia owns 20 pairs of Converse sneakers in an array of colors and some Hello Kitty designs, too—for all that ZTA running around!
“I love when the collegians have that ‘aha’ moment and they see the bigger picture.”
- SYLVIA CONTRERAS
LOOKING FOR A WAY TO GET INVOLVED?
ZTA has many volunteer roles for alumnae who are ready to lend their time and talent to keep our sisterhood going strong.
Gamma Rho Chapter, Auburn University Collegiate National Officer IX-B
Honor Ring recipient and high school history teacher Amber says, “Working with collegians is the highlight for me! I love spending time with them—they keep me feeling young and in the loop. Another aspect I cherish about my current role is collaborating with other CNOs, which has led to lasting friendships. I am forever grateful that I have been able to work with such amazing women who inspire me every day.” She adds, “I have a strong desire to give back to ZTA because of the incredible experience I had as a collegian. I want to make a positive impact, just as past volunteers did for me.”
Amber led a group of 40 travelers on a spring break tour
Imagine 1,000 joyful Zetas of all ages, from all over the country, descending on Indianapolis. The city not only is home to International Office, but famous for the iconic Indy 500 auto race as well. So it’s only fitting that our sisters hit the ground running! Convention 2024 not only represented tying the final birthday bow on our 125th anniversary celebration, it was an opportunity to exchange new ideas and information to propel our Fraternity into a confident future.
We took time to recognize the service and contributions of dedicated collegians, alumnae and chapters…and honored the memory of beloved individuals. Throughout, sisterhood ruled! When Zetas meet other Zetas, new friendships are destined to be formed. Turquoise-and-gray, complemented by significant pink, dominated July 17-21 in Indianapolis. Overall, this year’s Convention was fun, meaningful, vibrant, and above all, memorable.
Wednesday
Welcome to Indy!
Even before Convention officially opened, there was plenty to do. More than 1,000 Zetas registered at the JW Marriott Indianapolis and were ready to roll. Some boarded buses for a crosstown trip to Carmel to tour International Office, site of business for the Fraternity, Foundation and Housing Corporation operations. Welcoming staff members guided groups to the Historical and Educational Center with its displays highlighting ZTA history.
Collegiate and Alumnae National Officers, and
members of the three Boards and their committees enjoyed the always anticipated National Officer Welcome Reception . Then everyone donned their favorite collegiate gear to enjoy ZTA's 125th Birthday Party to close out this celebratory year and kick off the weekend. Along with goodie bags and games, of course there was cake! To augment the festivities, ZTA created and donated special “birthday boxes” to 250 deserving families in Indianapolis. Alumnae and collegians ended the day with area meetings.
Favorite Moments
*Cindi Bolton Kurczewski
Alpha Zeta Chapter
The Ohio State University
I knew Zeta’s 125th party would be memorable…and it was!
*Jessi Stone Reel Theta Eta Chapter
Stephen F. Austin State University
Getting to see Maud’s original badge in the pop-up historical exhibit and hearing the story directly from Archives Committee Chair Susan L. Beard, who was there when it was discovered, was thrilling!
*Maddy Wilson Delta Omicron Chapter Lenoir-Rhyne University
A favorite moment was picking up my copy of Our Shared Purpose. Our archive work in ZTA is top of line and I was so lucky to get my copy autographed by the one and only Patti Cords Levitte, Archivist.
Dear ZTA,
Zetas could indulge in a variety of activities in between programming:
I wanted to take time to thank everyone who helped to plan and put on the 2024 Convention. As a first-time delegate, this experience helped me to better understand what our organization does as a whole. I am so incredibly thankful and blessed to be a part of an organization that cares so deeply about all of our members, young and old, and also about the community and society as a whole. My life has been largely based around the importance of giving back and serving my community, and it is so inspiring to hear how I can do that on a larger scale with my sisters in Zeta.
Bella Waters
Eta Mu Chapter, Augusta University
Zeta Zen Zone
Exhibit Hall
Favorite Moments
*Jordan Kay
Iota Rho
East Carolina University
I attended the Opening Business Meeting as the Official Delegate for the same alumnae chapter my mom was the Official Delegate for when I was a baby!
*Melissa Peace
Theta Eta
Stephen F. Austin State University
While the chapter flag procession was happening, I got chills to see my fellow sisters that are so different, but we all were there because we love ZTA.
*Nicole Casey
Zeta Lambda
Rider University
I really enjoyed hearing from the featured speakers and reflecting on all of the ways that I feel like I belong in my chapter!
(left: Heather Matthews, Convention speaker)
Kaylie Rozenboom
Alpha Omicron
The University of Iowa
Sitting with alumnae and collegians who shared the same career path at Thursday’s luncheon was such an awesome experience!
McKenna Smith
Kappa Eta
Rockhurst University
Small groups were an amazing opportunity to talk and plan with girls of your same position at different schools. I really enjoyed this opportunity and learned a lot.
Award Highlights
Outstanding Housing Advisors
Outstanding Advisor
Stephanie McNally Theta Phi, California State University, Fullerton
Greater Charlotte, NC and High Country, NC Chapters
New Alumnae Chapter Recognition
Gwen Banner Gamma Iota, University of Florida
Outstanding House Director
Carrie Armentrout Hoffeditz Eta Lambda, College of Charleston
Vivian Ulmer Smith Recruitment Award
Meghan Haran Nu, The University of Alabama
Louise Kettler Helper Award, Collegiate Honoree
Angie Crisp Stocker Alpha Eta, University of Cincinnati
Debbie Daws Robertson Theta Gamma, Texas A&M University
Sabrina Larson Beta Delta, Miami University
Thursday Zetas, Start Your Engines
Sisters fueled up with a continental breakfast before the Opening Business Meeting. A series of processions began with members of National Council and the boards of the ZTA Foundation and Fraternity Housing Corporation. A stirring parade of ZTA and chapter flags followed—a tradition that began during ZTA’s Centennial in 1998.
National President Dinah Jackson Laughery delivered the State of the Fraternity address, and alumnae chapters chartered during the biennium received a commemorative gavel. Convention delegates voted to approve multiple changes to the Constitution & Bylaws that will restructure the Fraternity’s volunteer roles in positive ways.
The FHC Luncheon featured great food, sisterhood and some special award recipients. Fun fact: ZTA was the first sorority to create a housing corporation and it was a model for other National Panhellenic Conference groups, as well as several men’s fraternities.
Collegiate sessions included learning the importance of Telling Your Story, presented by Heather Matthews (Delta Kappa Chapter, Louisiana State University). “ZTA is where we find our people,” she told collegians. “Where we learn to be true to ourselves. Where we make a difference. And where we tap into our potential to Seek the Noblest in college and beyond.”
Amy Davenport (Beta Delta Chapter, Miami University) led one of three alumnae sessions, addressing Policy Perspectives: Federal Advocacy for Fraternity and Sorority Life in the Midst of a Changing Higher Education Landscape Other discussions included why members do not stay connected to ZTA after graduation and ways to develop alumnae personal ZTA stories to share during recruitment. Awards at the Collegiate Crown Chapter Dinner were followed by Cookies with Council for collegiate delegates and a mock sisterhood event was held for alumnae chapters to replicate back home.
Friday
Ritual, Reco g nition and an Eras Party
Initiating a special new member has been a longstanding Convention tradition and Zetas witnessed the initiation of Corbin Adamson Orgain , wife of Founder Ruby Leigh Orgain’s greatgreat-grandson. Corbin was initiated with Ruby’s badge from 1948, the same badge that all Founders were given at that Convention in honor of Zeta Tau Alpha’s 50th Anniversary.
Former Secretary-Treasurer Dr. Mary Ann Stratford Stegall conducted the moving Memorial Service, recognizing sisters who passed away during the biennium.
At the Foundation Luncheon , Zetas dressed in their best pink attire as service awards were given and scholarships were presented by Vice President of Scholarship Kristen Humeston Harthorn.
Foundation President Carolyn Hof Carpenter and Vice President of Philanthropy Marlene Dunbar Conrad presented Breast Cancer Research Foundation representatives with an extra-special check for a $1.25 million grant . Retiring board members Cynthia Byars Courtney and Nora Nell Hardy Jackson were honored for their unwavering service as well. After lunch, the impressive 125th commemorative photo was taken by a drone (see page 40), followed by a number of breakout sessions.
Sisterhood at the Honor Ring and Alumnae Crown Chapter Dinner was complemented by awards for individuals and chapters. It was followed by a funfilled, late-night Sisterhood Through the Eras party. Dressed in attire from 1970s tie-dye to 2020s athleisure, Zetas enjoyed a spectrum of music, fashion and pop culture.
Favorite Moments
Caitlin Moulton-Towle
Gamma Rho
Auburn University
I was in a lucky and unique position to bring my own little Strawberry Baby, Nelly, along to visit with my favorite Zeta pals on Friday. We got dressed up in our pink (and strawberry!) attire and spent a lovely afternoon with sisters celebrating ZTA’s 125th birthday in downtown Indianapolis.
Sophia Ferolito
Theta Chi
George Mason University
It was so cool being able to get photos with our chapter’s flag and our link in The Chain of Chapters!
Marisa Saad
Delta Omega Westminster College
The sisterhood party was so fun! I loved getting to dance through the decades with all the sisters I met!
AwardHighlights
Liz Bozek Krohn, Theta Alpha , California State University, Chico
Outstanding Alumnae Chapter Officers
Siobhan Alvarez-Borland Kappa Upsilon , Georgia College
Julia Marthaler Hill Eta Rho, The University of North Alabama
Louise Kettler Helper Award, Alumna Honoree
*Kristin Fiehler Moll
Eta Tau
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Visiting IO was a top tier moment. Seeing this as a working professional put so much into perspective and appreciation for those whose literal job keeps this organization going!
*Lea Brannon Clark
Theta Eta
Stephen F. Austin State University
This was my first time to attend Convention, and it was even more special because I was able to attend with my daughter.
Elizabeth Willis
Delta Omicron Lenoir-Rhyne University
I loved being able to dress up and spend time with members from other NC collegiate and alumnae chapters!
*Karen Byers Arnold
Zeta Nu
Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania
Steel City chapter won our very first Silver Award EVER! We never expected to win, and it was all that we imagined and more!
The Finish Line Saturday
The Final Business Meeting celebrated retiring National Council Members Kimberly Jones Ivester and Cheri White Armstrong before the election and installation of National Council 20242026. A special “save the date” announcement was made for Convention 2026 taking place July 16-19 in Palm Springs, California .
During the FHC Biennial Meeting, 2024-2026 board members were elected, and retiring board members Karen Rose Roper and Nona Douglass Richey were recognized for their service.
At the Outstanding Alumna Recognition Lunch , ZTA Foundation recognized Amy Monger Parsons with this year’s honor. President of Colorado State University, Amy is an initiate of Kappa Alpha Chapter at CSU. As the 16th university president, she is the first to
be a member of a national fraternity or sorority. Amy said, “It lights me up to be in a room with this many Zetas. I promise to carry all of this inspiration and energy back with me to my work at CSU, and to pay forward what this amazing organization has done for me.” Chapters and individuals were honored with fundraising and service awards during the luncheon as well.
The traditional Recognition Banquet (commonly referred to as “Silver Night”) was an evening to remember for 34 chapters who received silver trays and bowls symbolizing their achievements and excellence. The awards were presented by 2022-2024 National Council members and Zetas celebrated with spirit! Convention 2024 closed with a sisterhood circle with everyone singing Today & Forever
“What
a wonderful time we’ve had together here in Indianapolis, celebrating 125 years of our sisterhood, honoring chapters and individuals, and making important changes to move us forward!”
-NATIONAL PRESIDENTDINAH JACKSON LAUGHERY
Awards
Zeta Tau Alpha concluded Convention 2024 by presenting silver trays to its most outstanding collegiate and alumnae chapters. These chapters were honored because they strived for excellence, represented ZTA well and exemplified the Zeta Tau Alpha our Founders envisioned.
Helen Margaret Harrison Award
Most Outstanding Chapter
Gamma Pi Chapter (The University of Georgia)
Congratulations to the Most Outstanding Chapter in Zeta Tau Alpha! This chapter exceeds expectations in all areas of operations and sisterhood. Chapter leaders focus on providing the best experience for their members. They implemented a communications task force to ensure all members were heard. As a result, they changed their chapter meeting schedule to increase attendance and improve belonging. The chapter initiated 100 percent of its new members in the biennium and had a 97 percent retention rate. During the past two years members have excelled in campus roles, like Panhellenic President and Vice President of Recruitment, Campus Tour Guides and Homecoming Queen. They model our Nine Key Values in everything they do and hold successful fundraising events. They have outstanding leaders who have successfully steered this mega chapter of over 300 members to this top award once again.
Nelly Galloway Shearer Achievement Award
Second Most Outstanding Chapter
Epsilon Chapter (University of Arkansas)
ZTA’s Second Most Outstanding Chapter lives ZTA’s Nine Key Values to create an authentic, inclusive and engaging sisterhood experience from Bid Day forward. Sisters are strong recruiters who continue to improve their priority rankings, always meet Quota and are at Total. New member programming is values-focused and wellrounded to help them feel loved and equipped to succeed in college. Their members are active on campus and serve in high-profile roles, including SGA, student ambassadors and Panhellenic. More than 100 members earned a 4.0 each semester of the biennium. Programming strives to meet the needs of the nearly 500 members of this mega chapter with weekly sisterhoods, career development programs, workout classes, DEI conversations and mental health talks. They are an outstanding chapter that continues to maintain extraordinary excellence.
Merit Award
Third Most Outstanding Chapter
Iota Gamma Chapter (The College of New Jersey)
Strong leadership starts at the top and every member of ZTA’s third most outstanding chapter practices it. Zetas are active on campus as admissions ambassadors, writers for the student newspaper, members of the cheerleading and dance teams, Panhellenic Council and SGA. They genuinely support other groups, cheering for their success and helping at their events because it all builds up Greek Life. The chapter is always at Total and is the largest chapter on campus, exceeding Total by 15 percent in the biennium and initiating 99 percent of its new members. This chapter keeps ZTA’s Nine Key Values paramount in its programming, and has earned the admiration of peers and the college’s faculty and administration. Sisters focus on their own chapter growth while advocating for the growth of Panhellenic on their campus.
Zeta Tau Alpha Fourth Most Outstanding Chapter Award
Gamma Iota Chapter (University of Florida)
ZTA’s fourth most outstanding chapter has so much drive and ambition. To achieve their goal to increase the chapter's leadership on campus, sisters held an involvement fair to showcase campus and community opportunities. As a result, they improved their outside leadership from 24 to 30 percent. Many members now hold significant leadership positions on campus, including SGA, homecoming directors, and campus orientation and tour guides. They organize wellness activities like exercise and relaxation events, front lawn Fridays, sisterhood dates, movie nights, crafting, cooking classes, campus sporting events, journaling and celebrating holidays. They incorporate sisterhood and fun into everything they do and impress everyone they meet.
Zeta Tau Alpha Fifth Most Outstanding Chapter Award
Gamma Psi Chapter (Texas Christian University)
The fifth most outstanding ZTA chapter is one of the largest on campus with more than 300 members, but its size has not stopped it from developing a strong sense of belonging. Members ensure that every program points back to their “why,” to leave their chapter a better sisterhood than when they joined. Their Founders Groups foster connections between older and younger members. An Executive Council officer leads each group, making their leaders accessible. The chapter successfully raises funds, and service efforts focus on children and teens fighting illness and long-term acute trauma. They decorate patients’ hospital rooms, send homemade cards and donate chemo bags. They are a true sisterhood of genuine people.
Betty McGehee Schuessler Award
Jacksonville, FL Alumnae Chapter
Congratulations to a first-time recipient of this award, which recognizes the alumnae chapter with a nearby collegiate chapter. This chapter is focused on the value membership brings to its members, collegians and the community. Members explore new avenues to learn and grow and are not afraid to try new things. They plan their calendar well in advance and incorporate members’ feedback. The result is events like Turquoise Treasures, Silver Screen Sisters, Crowns Coffee and Conversations, and Zeta SPA Alpha. They set a goal to be Founder’s Club members and raised more than twice their goal. They increased their membership by more than 10%. Members have volunteered 600 service hours this biennium and 10 of them serve as National Officers. Sisterhood is this chapter’s top priority. They firmly believe that “People join people.” They emphasize making every member feel welcome, included and appreciated.
Betty McGehee Schuessler Award
First Runner-Up
Long Beach, CA Alumnae Chapter
Consistency and creativity are keys to this chapter’s success. It increased membership again this biennium and is just shy of 100 members. They demonstrate their passion for modeling dedicated alumnae involvement by serving as advisors and attending events for three collegiate chapters. The officers lead by doing and earn the respect of their sisters. They engage members through an active social media presence and by reaching out personally to maintain connections. Their varied and well-attended programs keep all sisters interested. They volunteer for Crucial Catch games, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer® walks and community events. They truly set the standard for alumnae chapter excellence.
Betty McGehee Schuessler Award
Second Runner-Up
Memphis, TN Alumnae Chapter
This chapter strives for greatness in all it does, excelling and exceeding expectations year after year. Its programming is diverse and inclusive, catering to various interests. Fan favorites include Witches Dinner, Holiday Party, White Elephant Supper, Bunco, Strawberry Moon Dinner, and their Lads and Legacies program. They have over 180 members and continue to recruit women each year. They have high attendance at all events and are consistently strong. This chapter successfully raises funds for the ZTA Foundation with its annual Think Pink® luncheon, auction and fashion show.
Nan Barkley Boettcher Award
Collin County, TX Alumnae Chapter
This award recognizes an alumnae chapter without a nearby collegiate chapter and this chapter is a sterling example of what an alumnae chapter should be! This chapter maintains its focus on The Creed of Zeta Tau Alpha and is intentional in everything it does. This biennium members held over 250 events and fun activities to appeal to its diverse membership. Alumnae support each other through all stages of life—recent grads, single women, moms and grandmothers. Sisters mentor one another in ZTA leadership skills that apply to their corporate jobs. The chapter supports two collegiate chapters through bump practice, career workshops, meals, snacks and treats, even though each chapter is more than 50 miles away. Sisters also support four Alumnae Panhellenic Associations. They’re always giving back to ZTA and sponsored five scholarships this biennium.
Nan Barkley Boettcher Award
First Runner-Up
Huntsville/Madison, AL Alumnae Chapter
This chapter of 55 members exemplifies all that a ZTA alumnae chapter should encompass. Its Executive Council is creative and comes up with new programming events, recruitment strategies, fundraising and service opportunities. Some included Crowns and Cocktails, Cooking for a Cause, Pajamas and Pancakes, and a Pickled Pink Pickleball Tournament! They prepared freezer-ready meals for almost 600 people in their area and partnered with a local business to promote breast cancer education and awareness to fundraise for the ZTA Foundation. They are supportive of one another and live out ZTA's Nine Key Values every day.
Nan Barkley Boettcher Award
Second Runner-Up
Lexington, KY Alumnae Chapter
This chapter embraces community involvement, chapter programming, fraternity operations and fundraising. To show support for sisters across badges, they send Founders Day greetings to the sororities on a local campus where ZTA does not have a chapter. They also provide support to the only collegiate chapter in the state although it is 80 miles away. These sisters suffered heartbreak this biennium when they unexpectedly lost their chapter president to cancer. They created a ZTA Foundation scholarship in her memory and raised additional funds for the Foundation this biennium. They rise above challenges, love one another and continue to Seek the Noblest in all that they do.
Martha C. Edens Best New Chapter
Alpha Eta Chapter (University of Cincinnati)
Members go above and beyond in many aspects as students, leaders and Zetas. The chapter’s GPA has remained above a 3.4 since their reestablishment and they’ve initiated 100 percent of their new members since 2021. The chapter has developed a strong sisterhood and has become self-reliant.
Collegiate Recruitment Excellence
Majority
Alpha Theta Chapter (Purdue University)
The chapter’s recruitment strength is testament to everything they do well, meeting Quota both years, CROWNing to Total, and initiating 100 percent of its new members. Alpha Theta was recognized by the university as the 2024 Chapter of the Year!
Collegiate Recruitment Excellence
Mighty/Mighty-Mighty
Alpha Chapter (Longwood University)
Students join this chapter because of its excellent reputation. The chapter is always at or above Total and able to quickly fill openings. They haven’t had a member resign her membership in more than six years.
Collegiate Recruitment Excellence
Mega
Lambda Alpha Chapter (Sacred Heart University)
Members dug deep, set big goals and trusted one another, promoting and implementing a positive change in their chapter. They are a top recruiting chapter on campus, hitting Quota each year and being at or above Total each semester. Members worked hard to accomplish their goals and became a high achieving chapter!
Sherry Server Tilley Leadership Award
Eta Zeta Chapter (Elon University)
The chapter overhauled its operations, programming and ritual services to exceed expectations. Each semester, members select a new focus area to improve upon as a chapter, and excel each time. The chapter offers innovative programming based on members' interests and needs.
Alumnae Programming Award
Large Chapter
San Antonio, TX Alumnae Chapter
The chapter’s programming theme for 2022-2024 was “Come Together,” and they hosted innovative, fun events that attracted new members and kept long-time sisters engaged. They demonstrated genuine sisterhood and friendship, and as a result, increased membership by 28 percent, ending the year with 148 dues-paying members.
Alumnae Programming Award
Medium Chapter
Washington, DC Alumnae Chapter
The chapter offered more than 200 well-rounded events over the past two years, both during the day and in the evening. Leadership focused on making members feel connected, loved and supported in all programming efforts. As a result, their retention is incredible, and they have members who joined in their 20s and are now in their 80s.
Alumnae Programming Award
Small Chapter
Tri-Cities, VA Alumnae Chapter
During the biennium, 21 members participated in nearly 250 activities and programs. Fun programming is key and keeps members engaged! Some favorites included mini golf, pool parties, book clubs, fondue fun and mystery dinners. The nearest collegiate chapter is 50-plus miles away, and the alumnae still shared their love and support.
Alumnae Chapter Improvement Award
[1] Dallas Area Night Alumnae Chapter
The chapter supports its members, collegiate chapters and community, and creatively weaves community service projects into 70-plus events. Alumnae balance excellence in membership, programming, service, collegiate support, PR, philanthropy and Panhellenic involvement.
Collegiate Chapter Programming Award
Mighty/Mighty-Mighty
Gamma Chi Chapter (Indiana State University)
The chapter completed more than 400 programs in 20222024, touching on all of ZTA’s Nine Key Values. Leadership is intentional in its programming to support other organizations’ events.
Collegiate Chapter Programming Award
Majority
[2] Theta Zeta Chapter (Wofford College)
Chapter programming focuses on “why” rather than “what,” and leans into discussions of ZTA’s Nine Key Values and how members can practice them every day.
Collegiate Chapter Programming Award
Mega
Theta Gamma Chapter (Texas A&M University)
Chapter programming is relevant and valuable to members’ lives, focused on sisterhood, leadership, understanding biases and cultural differences, and hosting fun, safe social events. For Random Acts of Kindness Week, members do something nice for their secret pal. They hosted a workshop on recognizing unhealthy relationships and effective coping strategies.
Golden Anniversary Academic Achievement Award
[3] Lambda Iota Chapter (Vanderbilt University)
The chapter supports its members academically by hosting mock job interviews, connecting members within the same major and minor, and connecting members with alumnae for career and postgraduate guidance. As a result, the chapter increased its GPA by .13 since 2022!
Becky Hainsworth Kirwan Improvement Award
Gamma Zeta Chapter (Mississippi State University)
Chapter leaders set goals to make big changes starting with recruitment and focusing on retention, which led to a growth in sisterhood and overall improvement in operations. The chapter held successful fundraising events, and the members prioritized member connections to ensure sisters feel loved and appreciated.
Margaret Dunkle Hardy
Academic Improvement Award
Theta Eta Chapter (Stephen F. Austin State University)
The chapter supports members with academic programming to help combat procrastination, help members plan out the entire semester and celebrate the small achievements with mini rubber ducks that show “You are one smart duck!”
Alumnae Membership Award
Youngstown, Ohio Alumnae Chapter
Chapter leadership set and achieved big goals in the past two years, increasing membership from 44 to 75 members. They offered varied programming to keep attendance high, and their dueling pianos night raised funds for the ZTA Foundation!
Alumnae Membership Award
First Runner-Up
Greater New Orleans, LA Alumnae Chapter
The chapter developed an app to engage with its members and promote events, and surpassed the goal of reaching 100 members by 2024. Engaging their members is as important to these alumnae as increasing the numbers, and both are working!
Alumnae Membership Award
Second Runner-Up
Greater Lansing, MI Alumnae Chapter
The chapter increased membership by over 100 percent during the biennium! The membership increase, along with innovative programming and partnership with the collegiate chapter, show what it means to be an active ZTA alumna!
Alumnae Public Relations Award
Oklahoma City, OK Alumnae Chapter
In the past two years, the chapter has built relationships and partnerships with many community non-profit organizations and completed more than 4,700 service hours. Members created a grass-roots PR event with nonsorority women in the community and promoted ZTA and our philanthropy at high school football games.
Alumnae Public Relations Award
First Runner-Up
[4] Steel City, PA Alumnae Chapter
The 61 members of this chapter can be found handing out pink ribbons and brochures at football, baseball, soccer games and even boat festivals, always building connections and partnerships in the community. They continue to be strategic in their efforts, showing up to events with big hearts and acts of service.
Alumnae Public Relations Award
Second Runner-Up
Jersey Shore, New Jersey Alumnae Chapter
Members made it a mission to give back to their community, and they are known for service and exceptional good deeds. They are also known for promoting their chapter and ZTA.
Vallera Clough Ross Panhellenic Award
Zeta Chapter (University of Tennessee, Knoxville)
Zeta Chapter won Chapter of the Year and was the first chapter to receive a perfect score in Standards of Excellence. More Panhellenic leaders come from this chapter than any other Panhellenic organization. Sisters hosted 567 programs in the biennium, including 47 campus/Panhellenic events, totaling more than 20,000 service hours in the community.
National Council Special Recognition Award
Psi Chapter (University of Washington)
The chapter experienced tremendous growth and improvement since 2022. It is recognized on campus for the ability to CROWN, bringing in 80 new members and initiating at 96 percent. The chapter continues to set new goals to grow an amazing sisterhood and was recognized by its university for Chapter Excellence and Excellence in Philanthropy.
Anne Winnes Redmond Service Award
Mighty/Mighty-Mighty
Zeta Upsilon Chapter (Pennsylvania Western University Edinboro)
The chapter averages more than 500 hours of service each year. Members created and donated baskets to local organizations and are active on campus, helping with move-in day, Welcome Weekend events and supporting NPC events. The chapter was named the Organization of the Year on campus, in part because of sisters' service to their campus and community.
Anne Winnes Redmond Service Award
Majority
Eta Mu Chapter (Augusta University)
The chapter logged over 3,000 service hours since 2022, participating in campus and community events like Operation Clean the City and volunteering at a local children’s hospital, and with Big Brothers Big Sisters.
Anne Winnes Redmond Service Award
Mega
Gamma Rho Chapter (Auburn University)
In 2022-2024, the chapter recorded more than 37,000 service hours and raised over $268,000 for the ZTA Foundation. The chapter raises substantial funds for other charitable organizations because it wants to make
a difference. Members’ dedicated involvement underscores their commitment to making a positive impact on campus and supporting peers in need.
Alumnae Service Award
Small Chapter
North Shore, IL Alumnae Chapter
The chapter completed almost 400 hours of service and raised funds for the ZTA Foundation in the last two years. Alumnae have incorporated creative programming into service and philanthropy events, grown their sisterhood and created a rewarding alumnae experience.
Alumnae Service Award
Medium Chapter
Athens, GA Alumnae Chapter
In the last two years, the chapter completed more than 21,000 hours of service, organizing projects both independently and with other organizations, making a tangible and meaningful impact in the community.
Alumnae Service Award
Large Chapter
Houston, TX Alumnae Association
This chapter has raised over $300,000 in the last decade and provided consistent support to its local collegiate chapter. Inspired by great leaders, members excel in all areas of chapter operations with great attendance at events, especially service and philanthropy programs.
Alumnae Panhellenic Award
Area I
[5] Clearwater, Florida Alumnae Chapter
Every chapter member is active in the Alumnae Panhellenic Association, which consists of 19 sororities. Several members lead committees and serve as officers. They continue to show up for ZTA, the community and each other and always lead by example!
Alumnae Panhellenic Award
Area II
St. Louis, MO Alumnae Chapter
A chapter member currently serves as the President of the local Alumnae Panhellenic Association and the chapter supports its Alumnae Panhellenic Association through fundraising and attending and hosting events.
Alumnae-Collegiate Relations Award
Alumnae Chapter
Statesboro, GA Alumnae Chapter Alumnae reach out to Zeta Xi Chapter (Georgia Southern University) sisters each week through calls, texts and in-person visits. The two chapters partner on events throughout the year. The alumnae have created meaningful relationships and serve as valuable resources for the collegians.
Alumnae-Collegiate Relations Award
Collegiate Chapter
Theta Iota Chapter (University of North Florida)
The chapter embraces the opportunity to connect with alumnae and they’ve formed strong, lasting friendships. Theta Iota and the Jacksonville Alumnae Chapter continuously support each other, promote each other’s efforts by sharing fundraising events on social media and attend each other’s events.
New Member Programming Award
Mighty/Mighty-Mighty
Zeta Gamma Chapter (Youngstown State University)
The chapter initiated 100 percent of its new members during the last two years with improved new member programming. “Big/Little Meetups” helped new members get to know initiated members, and a robust Bid Day packet helped new members acclimate from day one.
New Member Programming Award
Majority
Theta Delta Chapter (Salisbury University)
The chapter focuses on risk reduction from day one and reinforces new members’ rights to be safe as a chapter member. The chapter has initiated 100 percent of its new members in the past biennium and increased its new member GPA by .32.
New Member Programming Award
Mega
Theta Omicron Chapter (Baylor University)
To help new members quickly find their place, they join the Think Pink® Committee and have Berry Buddy outings before chapter meetings. Following Initiation, the New Member Coordinator hosted fun and inviting events, continuing to foster sisterhood among newly initiated members.
Collegiate Social Media Marketing Award
[6] Nu Chapter (University of Alabama)
This chapter understands that social media is an opportunity to connect with potential new members, parents and neighbors to provide a glimpse into what the experience of being a member of the chapter is really all about. From sharing spirit week themes to pink lemonade on the lawn, late night study breaks and everything in between, sisters flourish using innovation and creativity on social media throughout the year.
Collegiate
Awards
Crown Chapter
This award is given annually to collegiate chapters attaining ZTA's standard of chapter excellence.
Alpha (Longwood University)
Epsilon (University of Arkansas)
Zeta (The University of Tennessee, Knoxville)
Kappa (The University of Texas at Austin)
Lambda (Southwestern University)
Mu (Drury University)
Nu (The University of Alabama)
Psi (University of Washington)
Alpha Gamma (University of Michigan)
Alpha Zeta (The Ohio State University)
Alpha Eta (University of Cincinnati)
Alpha Theta (Purdue University)
Alpha Nu (Birmingham-Southern College)
Alpha Xi (Indiana University)
Alpha Omicron (The University of Iowa)
Alpha Upsilon (Oklahoma State University)
Alpha Psi (University of Missouri)
Beta Gamma (Florida State University)
Beta Delta (Miami University)
Beta Theta (Franklin College)
Beta Lambda (University of Louisville)
Beta Omicron (University of South Carolina)
Beta Psi (Stetson University)
Beta Omega (Union University)
Gamma Alpha (University of Miami)
Gamma Gamma (The University of Texas at El Paso)
Gamma Zeta (Mississippi State University)
Gamma Iota (University of Florida)
Gamma Mu (University of Nebraska at Omaha)
Gamma Nu (University of Virginia)
Gamma Pi (University of Georgia)
Gamma Rho (Auburn University)
Gamma Tau (Texas Tech University)
Gamma Chi (Indiana State University)
Gamma Psi (Texas Christian University)
Gamma Omega (University of Houston)
Delta Alpha (California State University, Long Beach)
Delta Beta (Florida Southern College)
Delta Gamma (High Point University)
Delta Zeta (Sam Houston State University)
Delta Theta (Ohio Northern University)
Delta Kappa (Louisiana State University)
Delta Lambda (Georgia State University)
Delta Mu (The University of Tennessee at Martin)
Delta Nu (The University of New Orleans)
Delta Omicron (Lenoir-Rhyne University)
Delta Sigma (Lamar University)
Delta Psi (Samford University)
Delta Omega (Westminster College)
Zeta Alpha (University of Evansville)
Zeta Beta (Thiel College)
Zeta Gamma (Youngstown State University)
Zeta Lambda (Rider University)
Zeta Xi (Georgia Southern University)
Zeta Upsilon (Pennsylvania Western University Edinboro)
Zeta Psi (Jacksonville State University)
Zeta Omega (Ferris State University)
Eta Epsilon (Mansfield University of Pennsylvania)
Eta Zeta (Elon University)
Eta Theta (Missouri University of Science and Technology)
Eta Mu (Augusta University)
Eta Xi (Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University)
Eta Rho (The University of North Alabama)
Eta Phi (Illinois State University)
Eta Tau (The University of North Carolina at Charlotte)
Eta Chi (Francis Marion University)
Theta Gamma (Texas A&M University)
Theta Delta (Salisbury University)
Theta Zeta (Wofford College)
Theta Iota (University of North Florida)
Theta Omicron (Baylor University)
Theta Tau (The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill)
Theta Psi (Texas State University)
Theta Omega (California State Polytechnic University, Pomona)
Iota Alpha (Robert Morris University)
Iota Gamma (The College of New Jersey)
Iota Delta (Towson University)
Iota Theta (Georgia Institute of Technology)
Iota Nu (Susquehanna University)
Iota Omicron (Lander University)
Iota Pi (University of Dayton)
Iota Sigma (Old Dominion University)
Iota Phi (North Carolina State University)
Iota Psi (Rochester Institute of Technology)
Iota Omega (University of Maryland)
Kappa Beta (Presbyterian College)
Kappa Zeta (Clemson University)
Kappa Eta (Rockhurst University)
Kappa Omicron (Merrimack College)
Kappa Pi (University of South Carolina Aiken)
Kappa Sigma (University of South Florida)
Kappa Upsilon (Georgia College and State University)
Kappa Psi (Kutztown University of Pennsylvania)
Kappa Omega (Saint Louis University)
Lambda Alpha (Sacred Heart University)
Lambda Beta (University of Rhode Island)
Lambda Gamma (The University of Texas at San Antonio)
Lambda Delta (Texas A&M UniversityCorpus Christi)
Lambda Zeta (Lehigh University)
Lambda Eta (Virginia Commonwealth University)
Lambda Theta (New York University)
Lambda Iota (Vanderbilt University)
Lambda Lambda (Kennesaw State University)
Lambda Nu (Furman University)
Lambda Pi (Reinhardt University)
Lambda Rho (Piedmont University)
Lambda Sigma (The University of Texas at Tyler)
Helping Hands
This award recognizes chapters or individuals that assisted the Fraternity or another chapter in some significant way during the year.
Abigail Lynn Loewenstein (Lambda Epsilon Chapter, Indiana University - Indianapolis)
Bella Pollice (Alpha Gamma Chapter, University of Michigan) Alpha Psi (University of Missouri)
Alpha Xi (Indiana University)
Beta Delta (Miami University)
Beta Omicron (University of South Carolina)
Delta Eta (West Texas A&M University)
Delta Psi (Samford University)
Delta Zeta (Sam Houston State University)
Epsilon (University of Arkansas)
Gamma Chi (Indiana State University)
Gamma Pi (University of Georgia)
Gamma Rho (Auburn University)
Gamma Zeta (Mississippi State University)
Iota Phi (North Carolina State University)
Iota Rho (East Carolina University)
Kappa Sigma (University of South Florida)
Lambda Phi (Binghamton University)
Lambda Theta (New York University)
Nu (University of Alabama)
Sigma (Baker University)
Theta Omicron (Baylor University)
Zeta Xi (Georgia Southern University)
Quota/Total
Each year, this award is presented to chapters that pledged Quota during Primary Recruitment and maintained maximum chapter Total each semester or quarter during the school year.
Alpha (Longwood University)
Epsilon (University of Arkansas)
Zeta (The University of Tennessee, Knoxville)
Kappa (The University of Texas at Austin)
Lambda (Southwestern University)
Mu (Drury University)
Nu (The University of Alabama)
Alpha Psi (University of Missouri)
Alpha Theta (Purdue University)
Alpha Upsilon (Oklahoma State University)
Alpha Xi (Indiana University)
Alpha Zeta (The Ohio State University)
Beta Delta (Miami University)
Beta Gamma (Florida State University)
Beta Nu (New Mexico State University)
Beta Omicron (University of South Carolina)
Beta Phi (Michigan State University)
Beta Psi (Stetson University)
Beta Theta (Franklin College)
Beta Upsilon (Kansas State University)
Delta Alpha (California State University, Long Beach)
Delta Kappa (Louisiana State University)
Delta Lambda (Georgia State University)
Delta Omega (Westminster College)
Delta Psi (Samford University)
Delta Sigma (Lamar University)
Delta Theta (Ohio Northern University)
Delta Zeta (Sam Houston State University)
Eta Chi (Francis Marion University)
Eta Gamma (West Chester University of Pennsylvania)
Eta Mu (Augusta University)
Eta Phi (Illinois State University)
Eta Theta (Missouri University of Science and Technology)
Gamma Alpha (University of Miami)
Gamma Epsilon (Pennsylvania State University)
Gamma Iota (University of Florida)
Gamma Kappa (James Madison University)
Gamma Mu (University of Nebraska at Omaha)
Gamma Omega (University of Houston)
Gamma Pi (University of Georgia)
Gamma Psi (Texas Christian University)
Gamma Rho (Auburn University)
Gamma Tau (Texas Tech University)
Gamma Zeta (Mississippi State University)
Iota Delta (Towson University)
Iota Gamma (The College of New Jersey)
Iota Nu (Susquehanna University)
Iota Omega (University of Maryland)
Iota Phi (North Carolina State University)
Iota Pi (University of Dayton)
Iota Sigma (Old Dominion University)
Kappa Beta (Presbyterian College)
Kappa Pi (University of South Carolina Aiken)
Favorite Moments
Elizabeth Willis
Delta Omicron Chapter
Lenoir-Rhye Univeristy
The best part of Convention was receiving Crown Chapter! We hadn’t received Crown Chapter in eight years, so it was truly an honor!
Kappa Sigma (University of South Florida)
Kappa Tau (Florida Gulf Coast University)
Kappa Upsilon (Georgia College and State University)
Kappa Zeta (Clemson University)
Lambda Alpha (Sacred Heart University)
Lambda Beta (University of Rhode Island)
Lambda Delta (Texas A&M UniversityCorpus Christi)
Lambda Eta (Virginia Commonwealth University)
Lambda Gamma (The University of Texas at San Antonio)
Lambda Iota (Vanderbilt University)
Lambda Kappa (Appalachian State University)
Lambda Nu (Furman University)
Lambda Pi (Reinhardt University)
Lambda Rho (Piedmont University)
Lambda Tau (Long Island University Brooklyn)
Lambda Theta (New York University)
Lambda Zeta (Lehigh University)
Theta Delta (Salisbury University)
Theta Gamma (Texas A&M University)
Theta Iota (University of North Florida)
Theta Omega (California State Polytechnic University, Pomona)
Sydney O’Connell
Lambda Chapter
Southwestern University
It was really cool to not only see the number of collegians there are, but also that we got to celebrate each other’s success at dinner.
Theta Omicron (Baylor University)
Theta Psi (Texas State University)
Theta Tau (The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill)
Theta Xi (Rutgers University)
Theta Zeta (Wofford College)
Zeta Alpha (University of Evansville)
Zeta Beta (Thiel College)
Zeta Gamma (Youngstown State University)
Zeta Lambda (Rider University)
Zeta Omega (Ferris State University)
Zeta Upsilon (Pennsylvania Western University Edinboro)
Zeta Xi (Georgia Southern University)
Academic Achievement
This award goes to those chapters that attained Highly Commendable status (3.2 GPA or higher) for at least two consecutive semesters or three consecutive quarters during the biennium.
Epsilon (University of Arkansas)
Zeta (The University of Tennessee, Knoxville)
Kappa (The University of Texas at Austin)
Lambda (Southwestern University)
Mu (Drury University)
Nu (The University of Alabama)
Omicron (Brenau University)
Psi (University of Washington)
Alpha Beta (University of Pennsylvania)
Alpha Eta (University of Cincinnati)
Alpha Gamma (University of Michigan)
Alpha Omicron (The University of Iowa)
Alpha Psi (University of Missouri)
Alpha Theta (Purdue University)
Alpha Upsilon (Oklahoma State University)
Alpha Xi (Indiana University)
Alpha Zeta (The Ohio State University)
Beta Delta (Miami University)
Beta Gamma (Florida State University)
Beta Omicron (University of South Carolina)
Beta Phi (Michigan State University)
Beta Psi (Stetson University)
Beta Theta (Franklin College)
Beta Upsilon (Kansas State University)
Delta Beta (Florida Southern College)
Delta Chi (William Jewell College)
Delta Delta (Baldwin Wallace University)
Delta Gamma (High Point University)
Delta Iota (Pennsylvania Western University Clarion)
Delta Omega (Westminster College)
Delta Psi (Samford University)
Delta Theta (Ohio Northern University)
Delta Upsilon (West Virginia Wesleyan College)
Eta Beta (Duquesne University)
Eta Gamma (West Chester University of Pennsylvania)
Eta Phi (Illinois State University)
Eta Rho (The University of North Alabama)
Eta Theta (Missouri University of Science and Technology)
Eta Upsilon (Missouri Southern State University)
Eta Xi (Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University)
Eta Zeta (Elon University)
Gamma Alpha (University of Miami)
Gamma Beta (Washington College)
Gamma Chi (Indiana State University)
Gamma Epsilon (Pennsylvania State University)
Gamma Iota (University of Florida)
Gamma Mu (University of Nebraska at Omaha)
Gamma Nu (University of Virginia)
Gamma Pi (University of Georgia)
Gamma Psi (Texas Christian University)
Gamma Rho (Auburn University)
Gamma Zeta (Mississippi State University)
Iota Alpha (Robert Morris University)
Iota Gamma (The College of New Jersey)
Alumnae Alumnae Awards
Iota Iota (Fairleigh Dickinson University)
Iota Nu (Susquehanna University)
Iota Omega (University of Maryland)
Iota Omicron (Lander University)
Iota Phi (North Carolina State University)
Iota Pi (University of Dayton)
Iota Theta (Georgia Institute of Technology)
Kappa Beta (Presbyterian College)
Kappa Chi (Shorter University)
Kappa Eta (Rockhurst University)
Kappa Mu (Linfield University)
Kappa Omega (Saint Louis University)
Kappa Omicron (Merrimack College)
Kappa Pi (University of South Carolina Aiken)
Kappa Sigma (University of South Florida)
Kappa Upsilon (Georgia College and State University)
Kappa Xi (Stockton University)
Kappa Zeta (Clemson University)
Lambda Alpha (Sacred Heart University)
Lambda Eta (Virginia Commonwealth University)
Lambda Iota (Vanderbilt University)
Lambda Lambda (Kennesaw State University)
Lambda Nu (Furman University)
Lambda Omicron (Boise State University)
Lambda Phi (Binghamton University)
Lambda Tau (Long Island University Brooklyn)
Lambda Theta (New York University)
Lambda Zeta (Lehigh University)
Theta Gamma (Texas A&M University)
Theta Omicron (Baylor University)
Theta Tau (The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill)
Theta Theta (Arkansas Tech University)
Theta Xi (Rutgers University)
Theta Zeta (Wofford College)
Zeta Alpha (University of Evansville)
Zeta Beta (Thiel College)
Zeta Gamma (Youngstown State University)
Zeta Lambda (Rider University)
Zeta Psi (Jacksonville State University)
Crown Chapter
This award is given biennially to alumnae chapters attaining ZTA's standard of chapter excellence for each year of the biennium.
Aiken, SC Chapter
Akron, OH Chapter
Albuquerque, NM Chapter
Ann Arbor, MI Chapter
Annapolis, MD Chapter
Athens, GA Chapter
Atlanta, GA Alpha Chapter
Atlanta, GA Themis Chapter
Augusta, GA Chapter
Austin, TX Chapter
Baltimore City, MD Chapter
Baton Rouge, LA Chapter
Birmingham, AL Chapter
Blue Ridge, NC Chapter
Boise, Idaho Alumnae Chapter
Central Texas Chapter
Charleston, SC Chapter
Chicago Northwest Suburban, IL Chapter
Chicago West Suburban, IL Chapter
Cincinnati, OH Crown Chapter
City of Chicago, IL Chapter
Clearwater, FL Chapter
Cleveland-East, OH Chapter
Cleveland-West, OH Chapter
Coastal Islands of SC Chapter
Cobb County, GA Chapter
Collin County, TX Chapter
Columbia, SC Chapter
Columbus, OH Chapter
Cypress, TX Chapter
Dallas Area Night Alumnae Chapter
Dayton, OH Chapter
Daytona Beach, FL Chapter
Decatur, IL Chapter
Dekalb County, GA Chapter
Detroit Metropolitan, MI Chapter
East Bay, CA Chapter
Fredericksburg, VA Chapter
Gainesville, FL Chapter
Golden Isles, GA Chapter
Grand Strand, SC Chapter
Grand Traverse Area, MI Chapter
Greater Charlotte, NC Chapter
Greater Grand Rapids, MI Chapter
Greater Kansas City, MO Chapter
Greater Lansing, MI Chapter
Greater New Orleans, LA Chapter
Greater Oxford, MS Chapter
Greenwood, SC Chapter
Gwinnett County Chapter of Georgia
Harrisburg, PA Chapter
Hickory-Morganton, NC Chapter
High Country, NC Chapter
Houston Northwest, TX Chapter
Houston, TX Association
Huntsville, AL Chapter
Huntsville, TX Chapter
Indianapolis, IN Association
Jacksonville, FL Chapter
Jersey Shore, NJ Chapter
Knoxville, TN Chapter
Lancaster, PA Chapter
Lexington, KY Chapter
Little Rock, AR Chapter
Long Beach, CA Chapter
Loudoun County, VA Chapter
Louisville, KY Chapter
Macon, GA Chapter
Martin, TN Chapter
Memphis, TN Chapter
Mercer-Bucks, NJ Chapter
Miami, FL Chapter
Milwaukee, WI Chapter
Murfreesboro, TN Chapter
Nasa-Brazoria County, TX Chapter
New York City, NY Chapter
North Fulton Link of Georgia Chapter
North Shore, IL Chapter
North Valley, CA Chapter
Northeast Mississippi Chapter
Northern Maryland Chapter
Northern New Jersey Chapter
Northern Virginia Chapter
Northshore, LA Chapter
Northwest Alabama Chapter
Northwest Arkansas Chapter
Northwest Florida Chapter
Oklahoma City, OK Chapter
Palm Beach County, FL Chapter
Pee Dee Area, SC Chapter
Portland, OR Chapter
Research Triangle, NC Chapter
Richmond, VA Chapter
Sacramento, CA Chapter
Salisbury, MD Chapter
San Antonio, TX Chapter
San Diego, CA Chapter
Seattle, WA Chapter
Silver Spring, MD Chapter
South Brevard, FL Chapter
Southern Atlanta West Chapter
Southern Nevada Chapter
Southern Peninsula, CA Chapter
Spartanburg, SC Chapter
St. Louis Metro-East, IL Chapter
St. Louis, MO Chapter
Statesboro, GA Chapter
Steel City, PA Chapter
Stillwater, OK Chapter
Tallahassee, FL Chapter
Tidewater, VA Chapter
Top of Texas, Canyon TX
Tri-Cities Virginia Chapter
Tulsa, OK Chapter
Virginia Peninsula Chapter
Washington, DC Chapter
Western Fairfax , VA Chapter
Westside-Santa Monica, CA Chapter
Wilmington, NC Chapter
Youngstown, OH Chapter
Honor Ring
The Honor Ring is the highest individual award the Fraternity gives.
To earn an Honor Ring, an alumnae must render sustained and outstanding service to the Fraternity.
Marcia Allen
Lauren Krumwiede Arman
Laura Parker Barnes
Yuriko Norita Beaman
Jane Billinger
Debbie Buscher
Susan Canady
Dana Curry
Coryn Edgar
Natalie Peifer Herdell
Mandi Hartman Knight
Brittany Hopp
Annahita Smedal Jimmerson
Kaitlyn Julien
Kirsten Kobbeman
Ashlee Driggers Kositz
RuthAnne Lavis
Gina Goertzen LeGare
Elisabeth Marriott
Julie Vantrease Mayfield
Leigh Greene Mitchell
Megan Latchford Morgan
Donna Stanley Mowrer
Cheryl Moore Northness
Karoline Elizabeth Park
Jamie Rae Parker
Jackie Parslow
Lesley Pascoe
Nicole Prahler
Ann Marie Reynolds
Deanna Rothschild
Christina Rutledge
Valerie Lucarelli Schenk
Lauren Sherrard
Kelly Munson Smith
Michele Johnson Spears
Paislea Wallstein Stolarski
Cassie Hughes Thomas
Alison Colangelo Thuer
Lauri Zachry Truong
Kayla Slaughter Weigel
Laura McFarland Wieck
Helping Hands
This award recognizes chapters or individuals that assisted the Fraternity or another chapter in some significant way during the year.
Birmingham, AL Chapter
Northeast Mississippi Chapter
Favorite Moments
Kaylie Rozenboom
Alpha Omicron
The University of Iowa
Alpha Omicron (The University of Iowa) attendees were so thrilled to witness our House Director receive her Honor Ring! We’re so proud of her and love her for all she has done for our chapter!
*Emily Aaron Preston Eta Iota
Valdosta State university
The Alumnae Crown Chapter dinner was so fun and exciting! It was extra exciting to see Dekalb Metro and other Georgia chapters take home Crown Chapter awards.
the Boards
(From left to right): Jacque Green Kennedy, Stancy Robinson Hagans, Karla Lundgren Wheeler, Meredith Harris Braselman, Dinah Jackson Laughery, Shannon Ferguson, Kery Reinkemyer Webb, Barb Chang-Holt, Dr. Katie Peoples Zamulinsky
National Council
National President:
Dinah Jackson Laughery (Beta Gamma, Florida State University)
Vice President Collegiate I: Meredith Harris Braselman (Delta Lambda, Georgia State University)
Vice President Housing Area I: Kayte Sexton Fry (Epsilon, University of Arkansas)
Vice President Housing Area II: Julie Ward Moxley (Theta Sigma, Winthrop University)
Vice President Housing Area III: Marnie Marlar Frazier (Eta Omega, Louisiana State University in Shreveport)
Vice President Construction: ris Fleming (Eta Theta, Missouri University of Science and Technology)
Vice President Design: Ashlee Driggers Kositz (Eta Chi, Francis Marion University)
Vice President Operations:
Meg O’Connell Naes (Theta Kappa, University of Missouri-St. Louis)
Secretary-Treasurer:
Casey Guimbellot Pash (Iota Chi, Middle Tennessee State University)
Our exclusive partnership with Kendra Scott delivers an allnew collection which includes the stunning Elisa Necklace featuring ZTA’s letters carefully adorned on a bezel set white moonstone.
The ZTA Kendra Scott jewelry collection is available only on HJGreek.com/ZTA.
Get Free Shipping*!
Enter promo code ZTAFALL24
(Valid 09.01.24 through 11.30.24.)
*US standard shipping.
Badges must be ordered through Zeta Tau Alpha National Headquarters: 317-872-0540 or zetataualpha@zetataualpha.org
A. Davis Pendant Necklace, #DAVISPEN GE
B. Davis Station Necklace, #DAVISSTN GE
C. Elisa Necklace, #ELISA GE
D. Davis Stud Earrings, #DAVISEAR GE
E. Davis Stretch Bracelet, #DAVISB GE
F. Crown Pearl Badge, #0103 10K
G. Plain Double Letter Guard, #J0200 GE SS
H. Alumnae Chapter President Dangle, #0045 GE SS
I. Kylie Bracelet, #KYLIE GE
J. Isla Necklace, #ISLA GE
K. Josie Ring, #JOSIE GE
Some items not shown at actual size.
C.
Convention
TWO ZETAS, TWO CONVENTIONS, 50 YEARS APART
By Lisa Perry, Staff Writer/Copy Editor
In the span of only a few days, every Convention offers Zetas opportunities to learn, grow, experience friendships—and have some fun! Two sisters share their memories from attending their first Convention as a collegian...one in 1974 and the other in 2024. Both events celebrated noteworthy Zeta Tau Alpha anniversaries. Their stories are different, but ZTA’s everlasting sisterhood is the same!
Convention 1974:
ZTA's 75th Anniversary in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Susie Albright Highley Alpha Theta Chapter Purdue University
1974
Top-selling music artists: Elton John, The Rolling Stones, John Denver
Gasoline: 55 cents/gallon
Loaf of bread: 36 cents
Technology: Cable TV at home, IBM
Selectric typewriters at the office, corded phones
Susie’s Convention fashion: A green polyester long dress with buttons lining the front, worn at the awards banquet (below, third from the right)
Susie Highley was among three newly elected chapter officers and four alumnae who piled into a woodpaneled station wagon for their 800-mile Convention road trip from Indiana to Virginia. She had an extra $200 in her pocket, and was the recipient of a chapter award created to encourage sisters to attend Convention. “It was a leadership encouragement type thing...a partial scholarship to help defray expenses,” she says.
Learning. In a time before internet communications, “I thought every chapter had a house,” she says, and then talked with Zetas who described their chapter suites and other lodging. “It was like: Oh, chapters can exist as all different kinds of situations. You don’t have to have a house to have a sisterhood.” Her most memorable Convention moment was the announcement that Zeta Tau Alpha’s entire office was moving from Evanston, Illinois, to Indianapolis. “We didn’t know that was coming,” she says. “And for me it was one of the things that was life changing. Because eventually I did work at International Office as Collegiate Coordinator, processing
initiations.” Prior to that position, she was what now is known as a Leadership Consultant. “I didn’t know what they were till I met them at Convention,” she says.
Fun . “Going to the beach was fun,” Susie says. “Meeting the people from other chapters…and you know, even the road trip was fun, too!”
Rolling with it . “One of the overarching memories of this Convention was that right before we got there, the hotel’s head waiter walked out and took much of the staff with him,” says Susie. Meals which were supposed to be in big ballrooms were served in a much smaller space. “And meal service was a little messy. It was to a point where it seemed like every table didn’t get all of the meal.” For the 75th birthday party, she says then-National President Martha C. Edens apparently had to search for a slice of celebratory cake. But resourceful Zetas rallied together. There was a hamburgerchain restaurant nearby, and she says it became a go-to place for sisters. Then and now, she remembers it with a laugh.
Sisterhood. Susie felt it throughout Convention, but there were special moments too. “Definitely the ritual ceremony and everybody in white,” she says. “And the singing. There was a lot of singing!” Not only traditional, meaningful ZTA songs. She says Zetas composed and continually sang a song about that fast-food restaurant, too.
Convention 2024:
ZTA's 125th Anniversary in Indianapolis, Indiana
Teresa Grace DiMaggio
Lambda Phi Chapter
Binghamton University
2024
Top-selling music artists: Taylor Swift.
Gasoline: $3.37/gallon
Loaf of bread: $2.50
Teresa got her first “wow” Convention moment touring International Office. “I remember stepping onto that little road toward the entrance of IO with all the flags felt like a dream,” she says. “Just being able to see visual representations of everything that I learned in my new member lessons and throughout my Zeta experience was so mesmerizing. It allowed me to even further appreciate how rich our Fraternity history is!”
Technology: Artificial Intelligence, iPhones, fingerprint and facial recognition for device log-ins
Teresa’s Convention fashion: For Recognition Banquet, a sparkly gold off-the-shoulder long dress with ruffles, reflecting 2024 simplicity and elegance (below)
Why attend? As Lambda Phi President, “I wanted the opportunity to see the larger scope of ZTA outside of just my own relatively new chapter,” says Teresa. “I wanted to be able to meet collegians and alumnae from across the country and share ideas and experiences. It was so insightful to hear how other leaders run their chapters—and I’m so excited to bring all of it back to Lambda Phi!”
Learning. At a large collegian event with guest speaker Heather Matthews, Teresa says, “We learned about the importance of telling your ZTA story. Transparency is the key in sharing your ZTA experience with other women, especially with potential new members. Recruitment is such an important focus for our chapter, and learning about how to communicate your sorority experience was really helpful.”
Memento. “I bought a Think Pink® beanie because our philanthropy was the main reason why I wanted to join ZTA,” says Teresa. “I was so inspired after attending the lunch held by the ZTA Foundation. Hearing the announcement of the Foundation’s
$1.25 million donation to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation I wanted to buy a token to remind me of how many women we are helping.” Lambda Phi hosts supporting events in October, culminating in a Making Strides Against Breast Cancer® walk. “I can’t wait to wear the beanie to show my support for our philanthropy!”
Sisterhood. During Friday's alumnae awards dinner, Teresa and her tablemates joined an impromptu conga line. Seeing all the collegians and alumnae together really gave a glimpse into how ZTA sisterhood really does last a lifetime," she says. "Cheering for all my sisters throughout the week and celebrating each other’s successes really made me feel ZTA’s impactful sisterhood and how it really does span decades.”
ETA THETA CHAPTER HAS AN APP FOR THAT
A custom app and some elbow grease keep the house in award-winning shape.
By Lisa Perry, Staff Writer/Copy Editor
In a ZTA facility full of engineering, science and technology students, sisters are utilizing their savvy minds and good attitudes, some light manual labor and a custom app for scheduling maintenance duties to keep their home in tiptop shape. Their hard work has not gone unnoticed—Eta Theta Chapter (Missouri University of Science and Technology) is the 2024 recipient of the Julia Marthaler Hill Award for Excellence in Housing Leadership. Sisters are scheduled for twiceweekly chores and then take a photo of their work when completed. It’s all done using an app created by a fellow Missouri S&T student, designed specifically for the chapter and its needs. There are 43 of the chapter’s 93 members living in the house, so “weeks off” are built into the rotating schedule.
With the help of a cleaning service, Eta Theta members maintain their 8,000-square-foot home under the watchful eye of House Advisor and Eta Theta alumna Abigail Pemberton Schneider. “I help with scheduling maintenance of the house on an as-needed basis, but also all of our annual repairs,” she says. “I’m a voice of reason to say, ‘Hey, that’s totally normal. Toilets do that sometimes. We’ll call the handyman.’ The girls take on a lot more responsibility, and house managers have really risen to the occasion of being great communicators with the FHC team and me.”
“I have Abigail on speed dial,” says House Manager Dakota Renee Friley.
The Julia Marthaler Hill Award for Excellence in Housing Leadership was created in 2022 to recognize the dedication required to sustain the quality of ZTA facilities and the proud tradition of ZTA’s leadership in fraternity/sorority housing. Named after Julia Marthaler Hill, a former National President, longtime FHC President and former FHC board member, Mrs. Hill also was the first recipient of this award.
[1] Dakota (left) with chapter President Faith Miskell [2] ZTA’s 2024 housing leadership award lives here.
Calling contractors, enforcing house rules and dealing with a sensitive fire alarm are all part of her day-to-day life. She remembers meeting with Zetas new to the house on the coldest day of the year. While discussing house rules and evacuation procedures, the fire alarm went off. The culprit? A broken sprinkler line. The main water line was turned off and drained, and campus Fire Safety was contacted for next steps. It was Dakota’s first day as House Manager.
“House care really starts with preventative maintenance,” says Abigail. “(Dakota) and I Facetime because I can’t always figure out what she’s talking about. So I’m like, ‘Turn the camera around and show me.’ Just keeping those lines of communication open—and understanding the school schedule. ‘Hey, if you have a wickedly full test week, just let me know and I can call some of these people instead of you calling them.’”
House maintenance chores include wiping down common areas and bathrooms, taking out trash, stocking supplies, light mopping and vacuuming, and washing hand towels. “I’d say that 95 percent of our chapter is an engineering or STEM major,” says Dakota. “And our classes are hard! So we all understand that we’re struggling together and do our part to help each other out.”
Dakota’s advice for ZTA house managers? “Keep an open mind and be ready and willing to learn, because sometimes things are going to happen whether you’re ready or not,” she says. “The rest of EC is there to back you up and help you shoulder that burden, so make sure you utilize that. That’s what saved me. I was so stressed out in the beginning, and they helped me to gather myself and organize things and learn how to respond.”
chapter news Collegiate
[1] Zeta
University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Bid Day, best day! Members were happy to offer a “welcome home” greeting to their new sisters during a festive Bid Day celebration. Sisters say there were tons of opportunities to bond and begin their sisterhood with the new members on a day to remember!
Gamma Omicron
Central Michigan University
Sisters held “Zeta Days” leading up to Initiation, celebrating new members and their accomplishments so far in their Zeta journey. Something different was planned every day. One memorable highlight was a beautiful photoshoot with flowers provided by another sister.
Gamma Psi
Texas Christian University
To relieve some finals week stress, the chapter hosted a goat yoga session! With more than 50 members in attendance, sisters were able to take a fun and lighthearted study break with the adorable goats while celebrating the end of a fantastic school year.
Delta Pi
Eastern New Mexico University
Chapter members held a springtime mother’s pinning ceremony to honor the women in their lives and share a portion of ZTA sisterhood with them. The special event included a brunch that allowed all the women to meet and connect.
[2] Eta Rho
The University of North Alabama
Sisters used their physical strength and positive attitudes to help new and returning students move into their new campus homes as they volunteered for Unpack the Pride. The Welcome Week project annually recruits helpers among students, faculty and staff members.
Iota Iota
Farleigh Dickinson University
The chapter hit it out of the park with a fun trip to Yankee Stadium to watch a major-league baseball game! All sisters scored with sisterhood, bonding and a welcomed break away from campus.
[3] Iota Omicron Lander University
The chapter’s remarkable young women enthusiastically joined a vibrant color fun-run with fellow Greek community members—all were doused with various colors while circling their campus. The event allowed members to collect lifelong memories as they raised money along with other fraternity and sorority members.
Kappa Upsilon
Georgia College and State University
Chapter officers collaborated and crossprogrammed for a wellness-focused sisterhood yoga session at Sunset Fields. The instructor was a sister, making for a day of relaxation and unity. The chapter also enjoyed nutrition teas during the gathering.
Lambda Upsilon
University of Wisconsin - Madison
Members kicked back for an outdoor movie showing of “Mamma Mia!” at the beautiful Allen Centennial Garden on campus. Everyone relaxed on blankets on the lawn as they watched the film and enjoyed a catered Chipotle dinner.
chapter news Alumnae
[1] Sacramento California
Sisters gathered at vineyards co-owned by three families—two are Zetas—to learn about varietals, grapes, growing, press and bottling techniques, and how to combine wines together to make new blends. The afternoon gave sisters a virtual behind-the-scenes education on how new wines are created!
Southern Peninsula California
As a traditional celebration of sisterhood, members finished out the year meeting at a local Mexican restaurant. Alumnae reflected on their accomplishments as a chapter this past year while toasting to the greatness to come.
Westside-Santa Monica
California
At Getty Museum, members savored a garden docent tour with a hint of history, then had the opportunity to view exhibits of interest on their own. The day was filled with learning something new while creating lasting memories.
Decatur Illinois
Members assisted in transitioning collegians of Eta Phi Chapter (Illinois State University) into their alumnae status at the end of spring semester. A tradition of bringing women into the alumnae world is always memorable for all who attend!
Jacksonville Florida
This year’s Kickoff Party was held at 1985 Coffee Shop, owned by a chapter sister. The Find your Flock theme was thoroughly embraced with flamingos and pink decor. With a total of 35 new and returning members, a great time “flamingling” was had by all as they participated in a service project and then enjoyed a fun meal together.
Americus
Georgia
Celebrating 50 years of sisterhood as a chapter, members gathered for a reception at a sister’s home. The celebratory event also had a recruitment focus, with many new local alumnae attending.
Cobb County
Georgia
To kick off a new ZTA year, the chapter hosted a recruitment party at a local pizza parlor. Sisters celebrated earning Crown Chapter this summer and brought in Convention goodies for all to see. The group, ranging in age from their 20s to their 70s, also collected 374 children’s books for their August service project!
Statesboro Georgia
Sisters delivered 170 moon pies as a sweet treat for Zeta Xi members at Georgia Southern University during Spirit Week. The alumnae told the chapter: “We love you to the moon and back. We are over-the-moon proud of you!” as collegians enjoyed their delicious delights.
Valdosta Georgia
Chapter members attended Bid Day at Valdosta State University with Eta Iota Chapter to watch and celebrate the latest collegiate new member class. The birth of a new sisterhood while honoring the current one is a favorite for both collegians and alumnae alike and can never be celebrated enough!
Greater New Orleans
Louisiana
To kick off the start of a new biennium, the chapter hosted a party to share upcoming events for the year, including their annual theme—revealed only at this event. This year’s theme is House of Blues and each month they will host an event focused on the color blue. All guests wore their favorite shade of blue to the party for the reveal.
[2] Ann Arbor
Michigan
Chapter members relished a lakeside lunch and pontoon boat cruise to celebrate a member’s birthday— complete with cake, presents and a serenade. The hosts were a Zeta motherdaughter duo. It was the perfect blend of family and sisterhood to create a memorable day!
[3] Baltimore City
Maryland
Sisters spent their summer meeting at local snowball stands around the city to find the best one, and added a Saturday outing to beat the heat tubing down an ice-cold river bordering Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. They say it was a perfect summer get together!
Omaha Nebraska
Sisters gathered for a delightful morning of coffee flights, laughter and cherished memories. Members were able to engage in lively discussions about Convention as their Alumnae National Officer shared exciting news and memorabilia from the event. Overall, the gathering provided a wonderful opportunity to unwind and strengthen connections with fellow sisters in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Northern New Jersey
The chapter held its first annual drive to help supply kids with items they need to go back to school. Sisters participated in the statewide Jersey Cares project posting on social media, creating an Amazon Wish List and inviting members to send in donations. They received backpacks, pencils, crayons and glue sticks, with more than 250 items donated!
Cleveland-West Ohio
Members hosted a Crown Connection meeting for alumnae sisters in Toledo. A summertime meeting of the two groups along Lake Erie gave sisters a chance to connect in person, closing geographic boundaries of 100-plus miles.
Harrisburg
Pennsylvania
Sisters took a guided production tour of the Tröegs Independent Brewing Company, beginning with a walkthrough of the Art of Tröegs gallery. They followed the footsteps of the brewers through the mill room, hop cooler and brewhouse deck, and learned about fermentation cellars and packaging lines. Following the tour, sisters gathered for a lunch made up of locally sourced ingredients.
Memphis Tennessee
The chapter was “Blooming in Memphis” this year, focusing on its 50 sisters, their well-being and their activities outside of ZTA. The goal: to support them wherever they are in their journey’s growth. Officers talked about their roles and upcoming activities were announced. There were also door prizes, games and a drawing for a ticket to the group’s Think Pink® Luncheon.
Ft. Bend Texas
Sisters donned their favorite “yacht rock” looks and met at BB Italia restaurant for a meet-and-greet recruitment event, where members were encouraged to join or update their membership profiles. Light bites were served, and door prizes given away for a paid member drawing and the best yacht rock look, of course!
NASA-Brazoria County Texas
Members had a personal tour of the Buffalo Soldiers Museum from Trooper Shotwell, a U.S. Marine veteran and member of the Greater Houston Chapter of the 9th & 10th Horse Cavalry Association, and learned about Black soldiers’ military contributions throughout U.S. history.
Top of Texas Texas
The chapter’s annual membership drive took a nostalgic “Step Back in Time” with a fun event. Each member dressed in attire or colors representing their assigned decade, bringing the vibrant styles of past eras to life. The event included ZTA-themed trivia, decadespecific games, food and the warmth of fellowship. History, fun and friendship all came together!
Loudoun County Virginia
Chapter members honored the legacy of sister Missy Guthrie Wagler (Zeta Alpha, University of Evansville) during her birthday week at a winery in Clifton, Virginia—one of her favorite places. As they shared fond memories, sisters said they could feel Missy’s presence. They raised funds for the Missy Wagler Endowment Scholarship and then toasted to Missy’s birthday.
Zeta Tau Alpha took its first all-attendee photo at our second Convention in 1906 and a group photo was taken at every Convention for 100 years. After an 18-year hiatus, as a special commemoration of ZTA’s 125th anniversary, the tradition returned for celebratory Convention 2024!
READER’S GUIDE
Themis of Zeta Tau Alpha, the official publication of the Fraternity, has been published continuously since 1903.
HOW TO MAKE AN ADDRESS CHANGE
Go to sistersonly.zetataualpha.org and update your information. You may also email changes to zetataualpha@zetataualpha.org (subject: Address Change) or call IO at (317) 872–0540.
Parents/guardians: While your student is in college, ZTA sends the magazine to the home address on file. If your student has a different permanent address, please send it in.
HOW TO SUBMIT NEWS
Send all news and photos to the Communication Department through the bit.ly/ThemisStories form. All submissions become the property of ZTA and are subject to editing. Include full names and chapter(s). Photos must be 1 MB (1,024 KB) or larger to be printed.
HOW TO SUBMIT TO THE ARCHIVES
Have something to contribute to the archives? Email Patti Cords Levitte (patti-levitte@zetataualpha.org).
Themis of Zeta Tau Alpha (ISSN 1529-6709); (USPS 627-120) is published quarterly by Zeta Tau Alpha Fraternity, 1036 S. Rangeline Road, Carmel, IN 46032. Subscription: $2 per year. Single copies: $0.50. Periodical postage paid in Carmel, Indiana, and additional mailing offices. Printed in the United States of America.
Postmaster: Send address changes to Themis of Zeta Tau Alpha, 1036 S. Rangeline Road, Carmel, IN 46032.
Fraternity Communications Association and National Panhellenic Conference
2024 Zeta Tau Alpha Fraternity No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of Zeta Tau Alpha.
