Themis—Spring 2024

TIED TOGETHER

NATIONAL COUNCIL

National President

Dinah Jackson Laughery, Beta Gamma

Vice President Collegiate I

Meredith Harris Braselman, Delta Lambda

Vice President Collegiate II

Stancy Robinson Hagans, Gamma Tau

Vice President Collegiate III

Kimberly Jones Ivester, Gamma Pi

Vice President Alumnae I

Kery Reinkemyer Webb, Eta Iota

Vice President Alumnae II

Cheri White Armstrong, Theta Gamma

Secretary-Treasurer

Shannon Ferguson, Alpha Psi

National Panhellenic Conference Delegate

Dr. Katie Peoples Zamulinsky, Theta Xi

Extension Director

Karla Lundgren Wheeler, Psi

ZTA FRATERNITY HOUSING CORPORATION

President

Natalie Yingling Lisko, Delta Omega

Vice President Housing Area I

Karen Rose Roper, Iota Alpha

Vice President Housing Area II

Julie Ward Moxley, Theta Sigma

Vice President Housing Area III

Marnie Marlar Frazier, Eta Omega

Vice President Construction

Kris Fleming, Eta Theta

Vice President Design

Ashlee Driggers Kositz, Eta Chi

Vice President Operations

Nona Douglass Richey, Zeta Omicron

Secretary-Treasurer

Casey Guimbellot Pash, Iota Chi

Directors

Dinah Jackson Laughery, Beta Gamma

Carolyn Hof Carpenter, Theta Tau

Shannon Ferguson, Alpha Psi

ZTA FOUNDATION

President

Carolyn Hof Carpenter, Theta Tau

Vice President of Alumnae Development

Cynthia Byars Courtney, Gamma Tau

Vice President of Collegiate Development

Carla Martin Cobb, Theta Tau

Vice President of Philanthropy

Marlene Dunbar Conrad, Eta Iota

Vice President of Scholarship

Kristen Humeston Harthorn, Beta Phi

Secretary-Treasurer

Kay Dill Kreutzer, Eta Rho

Directors

Nora Nell Hardy Jackson, Beta Gamma

Becky Hainsworth Kirwan, Gamma Beta

Sherry Server Tilley, Zeta Alpha

Dinah Jackson Laughery, Beta Gamma

Shannon Ferguson, Alpha Psi

Natalie Yingling Lisko, Delta Omega

Casey Guimbellot Pash, Iota Chi

From Where I Sit

You don’t know what you want to do until you’ve found the things that don’t suit you. You won’t ever find who you are until you’ve pushed yourself beyond your limits. For me, to be a Zeta Tau Alpha felt beyond my limits, until I pushed myself to believe in the impossible.

My ZTA experience began with what felt like a missed chance. I was released from Primary Recruitment and brought back through Continuous Open Bidding. Although the setback caused me to doubt my true potential within the Fraternity, I look back and realize it was my opportunity to demonstrate a line from our Creed , to be “humble in success and without bitterness in defeat.”

As I began my ZTA journey, feeling blessed to be a member, I knew I would need to learn how to serve others to feel fulfilled.

After attending both Emerging Leaders Academy in 2023 and Officer Leadership Academy in 2024, the most pivotal thing I learned is no matter how much knowledge we retain we will never know enough. We need to commit ourselves to the understanding that learning is a lifelong process.

ELA was the first glance at my future self. Learning how to be a leader solidified my confidence to do so. It also increased my dedication to the mission of making a difference.

I realized I could make a difference for my chapter as Community Service Chair. Prior to college, I had a passion for customizing clothes. ZTA helped me decide to rekindle that passion. I created a custom sweatshirt design to honor breast cancer survivors and sold them to sisters and friends via social media and on campus. I was able to give 20 sweatshirts to women going through chemotherapy at a local hospital and make a personal donation of $1,100 to the ZTA Foundation.

Attending OLA as chapter President taught me what it means to lead a community. The facilitators and speakers encouraged diversity in thought. They demonstrated that we, as presidents, will all write the same mission, but in different fonts. We can look for the same goal, but we will take different routes to get there. OLA also taught me that a presidency cannot be effective unless it is worn with humility. Performing your role is a chance to embrace the beauty of humility; that’s what makes a leader shine the brightest.

I will carry my takeaways from ZTA far beyond college. The lessons I’ve learned will never have an expiration date. I’ve learned that life is a balance. We all strive to find an equilibrium, but nothing is ever equal. We climb as we fall. We must trust that our purpose in life will find us if we continue to look for it without hesitation.

03

REMEMBERING SHIRLEY OLIVER SANDERS

Former Vice President Alumnae II Shirley Oliver Sanders passed away in January. Two former National Presidents, who served on National Council with Mrs. Sanders, remember the love she instilled in our members.

04 TIED TOGETHER

Meeting sisters by chance years after college is ongoing proof that Zeta Is Forever. The instant connections of learning “You’re a Zeta too?” lead to heartwarming stories of career opportunities, vacations, compassion, support and friendships.

18

125TH CELEBRATION

The special anniversary elevated Founders’ Day 2024 and prompted ZTA alumnae from across the country to travel to Farmville, Virginia, to walk in the footsteps of the little band of nine. Tours, stories and a surprise artifact made the weekend unforgettable.

ON THE COVER:

No matter where life takes you, there are always Zeta sisters to lend support, love and celebration.

THEMIS

VOLUME 122 NUMBER 3

SPRING 2024

1036 S. Rangeline Road Carmel, IN 46032 (317) 872–0540

zetataualpha@zetataualpha.org

STAFF

Creative Manager

Kahlie Cannon Day

Staff Writer

Christy Marx Barber, Alpha Psi

Senior Director of Communication

Ashley Sherman

Contributors

Susan L. Beard, Delta Psi

Patti Cords Levitte, Beta Phi

Hannah Newman, Zeta Lambda

Lisa Perry, Alpha Upsilon

Chapter Anniversaries

100 YEARS

Alpha Psi

University of Missouri

Installed May 22, 1924

Beta Gamma

Florida State University

Installed Dec. 18, 1924

50 YEARS

Eta Tau

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Installed April 20, 1974

Eta Phi

Illinois State University

Installed April 27, 1974

Eta Upsilon

Missouri Southern State University

Installed May 11, 1974

Eta Chi

Francis Marion University

Installed Nov. 9, 1974

SUBMIT YOUR STORIES

The Themis Stories Submission Form is the best place to keep us updated on all the amazing things our sisters are doing.

Please fill out the form and we’ll connect with you directly.

Annika Meyer: Proudly wearing my badge today! I am not only grateful to be a Panhellenic woman but I am proud to wear my badge to represent my membership in Zeta Tau Alpha and the Alpha Psi chapter.

@fc_zta Happy International Badge Day! Everyone looked so good in pin today!

Megan Coy: Scrubs aren’t “badge attire” so I made myself a badge reel from a ZTA button!

@ztalphamu Sisters make the best FRIENDship bracelets

Anne Nelson: Happy Badge Day! from an Alpha Gamma ZTA, at The University of Michigan

@ztalinfield Zeta Tau Alpha wishes you an amazing International Badge Day! #BadgeDay24

REMEMBERING

Shirley Oliver Sanders

By Christy Marx Barber, Staff Writer

With a quiet demeanor and an intense love for Zeta Tau Alpha, former ZTA Vice President Alumnae II Shirley Oliver Sanders was rarely the most outspoken member of National Council from 1984 to 1990. However, she modeled for all members the importance of loyalty and commitment to the Fraternity.

Mrs. Sanders passed away on Jan. 11, 2024, in San Antonio at age 89. A memorial service was held Jan. 20 at Alamo Heights United Methodist Church.

She was initiated March 12, 1953, at Lambda Chapter at Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in history. Mrs. Sanders served as District President XI-G from 1978 to 1984 and Vice President Alumnae II from 1984 to 1990.

Becky Hainsworth Kirwan, National President from 1984 to 1988, recalls how Mrs. Sanders touched National Council and ZTA chapters with her warm disposition. “She had good ideas and was strong in her leadership yet had a loving side that showed how much she valued the sisterhood,” Mrs. Kirwan said. “She made a chapter visit with me and it was obvious the collegians and alumnae loved and respected her.”

Sherry Server Tilley, National President from 1988 to 1992, remembers Mrs. Sanders as a role model. “She served as a collegiate advisor for many years and molded the lives of many with her determined and practical sense of order, caring and Zeta Love,” Mrs. Tilley said. “Many advisors aspired to follow the example that Shirley set for them.”

Mrs. Sanders and her husband of 63 years, Dr. Albert Sanders, had lived in San Antonio since 1966. She was a longtime member of the San Antonio, TX, Alumnae Chapter. She was also active in her church, the Medical Alliance and her children’s schools, often assuming a leadership role.

She was preceded in death by her husband; their daughter, Jeanmarie; her parents, Gus and Genie Oliver; her brother, Dick Oliver; and son-in-law, Gerald W. Gribbons. She is survived by her children, Dr. James Sanders (Tricia), Mary Kay Gribbons, Rev. Stephen Sanders (Mary);

and grandchildren, Luke (Emily), Jonathan, Nathaniel, Joseph, David, and James Sanders; Donald (Jeanette), K. Bates, McKie, and Bailey Gribbons; and a great grandson, Albert Sanders.

The family suggests memorial contributions to Southwestern University, the University of Texas Medical Branch Shirley and Albert Sanders Presidential Scholarship, or Children’s Hospital of San Antonio.

“During her six years on National Council, Shirley brought a steady and determined approach to engaging our alumnae and growing our ranks,” Mrs. Tilley said. “Her calm demeanor provided a balance for us, and her loyalty and dedication will surely be missed in our Zeta world.”

ZTA MILESTONES

INITIATED AT LAMBDA CHAPTER

Southwestern University

Georgetown, Texas 1953

DISTRICT PRESIDENT 1978-1984

VICE PRESIDENT ALUMNAE II 1984-1990

AWARDS

CERTIFICATE OF MERIT 1980

HONOR RING 1984

ORDER OF THE SHIELD 2003

right: Mrs. Sanders (front row, second from left) with her 19861988 National Council sisters while she served as Vice President Alumnae II.

TIED TOGETHER

By Lisa Perry, Contributing Writer

Forming connections within your college chapter is full of surprises and growth. But discovering Zetas elsewhere? Equally, if not more, impactful. Personal and professional stories demonstrate the scope of ZTA sisterhood, from happy encounters to business relationships and friendships that were meant to be.

Collegiate Cancer Survivors

KRISTEN SORRELL

Alpha Nu, Birmingham-Southern College (initiated 2021)

GIANNA DUBIEL

Kappa Upsilon, Georgia College (initiated 2021)

Kristen Sorrell and Gianna Dubiel are both Zetas and psychology majors at different schools. And they are both cancer survivors. They met in summer 2023 during photoshoot activities for Rally Foundation, a nonprofit childhoodcancer organization. Kristen overheard Gianna mention ZTA, which sparked a “me, too!” conversation. Kristen’s high school friends are members of Gianna’s chapter. “We have the same life, basically, at different schools,” says Gianna.

Kristen was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) at age 3 and went through 27 months of chemotherapy. She has been in remission for 13 years, and today takes on ZTA and campus leadership roles. “I’m so removed from cancer treatment, I like sharing my story,” she says.

Gianna, diagnosed with lymphoma in summer 2022, underwent surgery and six months of chemotherapy, and had to forego a college semester. Today, she’s nearly two years in remission. Her 2022 ZTA role as Assistant

Recruitment Chair had been cut short, but she returned and immediately jumped in to help with her chapter’s biggest fundraiser.

“Gianna’s so great,” says Kristen. “I feel inspired by her. She’s like, ‘Yeah, I have cancer and it’s fine.’

I just love that she lives life to the fullest. Sharing a connection being ZTA sisters and cancer survivors is so special. I’m thankful that we met.”

...PEOPLE ASK US ALL THE TIME IF WE ARE SISTERS, AND IT’S FUN THAT WE DO SHARE A SISTERHOOD.”

-LAUREN

Instant Friendship

LAUREN GINSBERG WEBBER

Theta Iota, University of North Florida (initiated 2002)

FALLON HEAVNER CROFOOT

Beta Omicron, University of South Carolina (initiated 2003)

In 2017, Fallon Crofoot’s husband requested her presence at a client dinner with the Webbers. “I pitched a fit,” Fallon says. “Because it’s another night you’re spending away from your children, and it’s all small talk. But then I met Lauren. We sat down and started talking, and it just went from there.”

Lauren had traveled as a Leadership Consultant for ZTA and visited University of South Carolina. She asked Fallon if she was in a sorority and the instant connection was made.

“Our paths had not crossed during my visit, but it seemed as though we were meant to meet one way or another,” Lauren says. Since then, the two have shared a spectrum of activities,

often with husbands and kids. Incredibly, they all get along. “Our families travel together, celebrate birthdays and milestones, and we’re each other’s biggest cheerleaders and best of friends.”

Music by 1970s singer Meat Loaf is a favorite in both families. A shared couple’s trip to Italy that included an island-hopping boat excursion and cliff-diving is a favorite memory. The best 10 minutes? Singing Meat Loaf karaoke in Capri.

“Zeta is just one of the many things we have in common,” says Lauren. “People ask us all the time if we are sisters, and it’s fun that we do share a sisterhood.”

Always in Tune

MARGARET WICHARD CUNNINGHAM

Eta Theta, Missouri University of Science and Technology (initiated 1973)

SARAH BRYANT CHRISTMAN

Zeta Sigma, The University of Texas at Arlington (initiated 1969)

Living in a community of 2,000 homes near Phoenix, Arizona, Margaret Cunningham was justifiably excited to return to Rolla, Missouri, for her collegiate chapter’s 50th-anniversary celebration in 2022; she’s a founding member. Margaret posted a short, enthusiastic description of the event on Facebook.

Community resident Sarah Christman happened to read it. In an amazing

twist, Sarah also is a founding member of her ZTA chapter. “I’d known Margaret for a few years, but not like this,” she says. “So, it’s really fun and special.”

The women sing soprano together in the community choral group that Margaret created. During an interview, when Margaret says her favorite song is “One,” from “A Chorus Line,” both women sing the first line together,

Working Together

MAISYN PRICE

Beta Omega, Union University (initiated 2021)

EMMA SANDERS

Beta Omega, Union University (initiated 2016)

Student intern Maisyn Price and marketing specialist Emma Sanders have a unique professional relationship. They are from the same ZTA chapter, where Emma was President in 2019 and Maisyn is the current Treasurer.

“Maisyn is such a spark,” says Emma. “Also the sweetest person—ready to work and willing to learn.

It’s been really interesting how well we have clicked. She’s flourished not only in her chapter, but at the job, using different skill sets in all areas of her life.”

Receiving real-world job experience and leadership advice unique to her chapter is the ultimate learning opportunity for Maisyn. The two catch up weekly with topics from

completely in tune. It’s Sarah’s favorite, too.

“Margaret is so sweet, uplifting and encouraging,” says Sarah. “When chorale members get an e-mail from her, she always signs it: ‘With a song in my heart.’”

“Sarah is a doll,” says Margaret. “It’s really fun to tell people, ‘That’s my sister!’”

work to ZTA. “It’s just lovely to work with a Zeta sister,” says Maisyn. “I’ve learned how to listen and operate with other people who think differently than I do, or work in different capacities.”

ZTA leadership skills transferred equally as well for Emma. “When I interviewed for this job,

they said, ‘Do you have experience to show us you’re good at coordinating multiple things at once?’ I was able to talk about that because I planned Bid Day. It’s been invaluable because we do so much event planning and writing.” She says, “Zeta really lets you shine.”

Remembering Jacob

LORI SCHAFER MOWL

Gamma Phi, University of North Texas (initiated 1990)

DEBBIE GEARNER THOMPSON

Gamma Psi, Texas Christian University (initiated 1975)

In 2003, Lori Mowl’s son Jacob was born with a serious heart defect and was only days old when neonatal nurse consultant Debbie Thompson was assigned to their case at Children’s Medical Center Dallas. Mom and nurse bonded immediately because Lori was wearing an old, oversized ZTA shirt, a last-minute grab-andgo to accommodate her postpartum condition.

“I was a mom who gave birth to my son at one hospital by Cesarean section, and then they transported him to Debbie’s hospital to perform openheart surgery,” says Lori. “When Debbie asked if I was a ZTA, I immediately felt like God had placed her to be there with me. The comfort that washed over me in that moment let me know all of this was going to be OK.”

Debbie says, “My job was to respect Lori as a new mom and normalize some of what was going on in the hospital. That was a unique start of our friendship—a better connection because of the sisterhood.” Debbie’s family was new to the area, and she joined Lori’s ZTA alumnae group. Lori also discovered her ZTA Little Sister and Debbie live in the same neighborhood.

With five open-heart surgeries and a heart transplant over 15 years, Jacob spent more than 700 days in the hospital, sometimes requiring up to four-month stays. Lori and the rest of her family—husband, Chris, son Micah and daughter, Peyton—banded together with Jacob to accommodate their new lifestyle.

Debbie transferred to another area hospital, but always remained available for Lori’s questions and concerns. “I’ve been impressed with Lori and her family, and how they managed three children and special needs in more than one (Micah is on the autism spectrum),” she says. “When I was service chairperson for our alumnae group, we started adopting a cardiac family at Christmas, in honor of Jacob.”

Almost 1,000 people attended Jacob’s funeral in 2018. “Jacob was just the most joyful child, the best patient and the best student in school,” says Lori. “He was hilarious. At a summer camp in South Texas for kids that were cardiac patients, they called Jacob the mayor of camp. He was the life of the party.”

“I have to mention just how much my Denton, TX Alumnae Chapter served my family when Jacob was born,” says Lori. “They brought me meals, magazines and books. They came and sat with my baby so I could take a shower. Zeta truly Is Forever in so many ways. They leaned in and loved me when I needed it the most. Now, Debbie is a part of our chapter, and we have opportunities to lift up and serve our sisters together.”

...“WHEN DEBBIE ASKED IF I WAS A ZTA, I IMMEDIATELY FELT LIKE GOD HAD PLACED HER TO BE THERE WITH ME. -LORI

OPERATION COMING HOME: THE JOURNEY OF MAUD’S BADGE

By Patti Cords Levitte, Archivist, and Susan L. Beard, Archives Committee Chair

We had an amazing story to tell the Zetas attending the 125th Anniversary luncheon at Longwood University—a secret we had kept for several months. As our story and presentation unfolded, we could hear an audible gasp in the banquet room. Then we heard applause and saw the tears. Our sisters’ reaction was the same as ours had been when we realized we had found Maud Jones Horner’s lost Founders’ badge.

The discovery came about as we began our research for the 125th anniversary celebration with a simple question—what places in Farmville still stood from the times of our Founders in 1898? Longwood

University’s campus had expanded greatly since the time of the State Female Normal School, but what about the town itself? Was there a building or two that our Founders passed by, or shopped at, on their walks through town all those years ago?

We were especially eager to find a specific location often mentioned in the Founders’ correspondence—Lithia Springs. Our search led us to the Facebook page of the Farmville Prince Edward Historical Society. There we discovered a wealth of knowledge held by one man in particular, Jimmy Hurt. An expert on the area’s history, “Mr. Jimmy” had researched many topics we hoped to learn more about, including the elusive Lithia Springs that was a favorite spot of our Founders and really intrigued us. We had to meet this historian and gain his insights in person.

With National Council’s blessing, we scheduled a research trip to visit Farmville in spring 2023. We first visited the archives in Longwood University’s Greenwood Library.

ZTA has deep ties to the university, and Jamie Krough, the archivist, has always been so helpful in assisting us with research over the years.

Ms. Krough joined us for our meeting in Farmville with Mr. Hurt, who had created a slide show that gave us historical details of many Farmville buildings and homes that still stood from the late 1890s. One of the most exciting revelations was that the location of the H.H. Hunt Studio, where the “Mystifying Picture” was taken, still stands in downtown Farmville. However, it is now a private apartment, so we did not barge in!

One of the best revelations was the hidden location of Lithia Springs that Mr. Hurt personally took us to see. We could not resist a second visit and the next day we returned, tromping through briars and brush to celebrate with a “strawberry toast” at what remained of the springs. Being at that site, we could imagine the Founders picnicking on a sunny day, taking in the “healthy waters,” and making plans for their new sisterhood.

Ms. Krough had pulled boxes from the holdings of the Farmville Prince Edward Historical Society for us to explore. One box included family scrapbooks from Clair Woodruff Bugg, one of the first Alpha Chapter members. Another small box, set aside, drew us over with an almost magnetic pull.

The description of the contents of that box read: “Zeta Tau Alpha membership pin. Gold shield, black enameled background. Gold crown in the center surrounded by the letters Z,

above: Little white box where Maud’s badge had been stored

right: Archival team, Ms. Krough and Mr. Hurt pose with Maud’s badge at the 125th Celebration

T, and A and Greek word Themis across the bottom. Pin is undated and bears no inscription, but likely belonged to Alice Maud Jones, a founding member of Zeta Tau Alpha.”

We tried not to get our hopes up, but upon opening the box, we knew exactly what we were looking at. This was Maud’s Founders’ badge, created in 1899 by Farmville jeweler E.C. Wiltse—the badge Maud wore as ZTA’s first president. The badge thought to have been lost more than 100 years ago was on the table in front of us!

We wish you could have seen the joy and disbelief on our faces in that moment. We tried to play it cool, but we were both so excited that we started tearing up. After all, even Historian Emerita Shirley Kreasan Strout was never able to locate this badge when she compiled our historical collection from the Founders themselves in the 1920s.

We thought it was lost in the midst of history. We had been through the Greenwood Library’s holdings extensively in 2013, but this item had been cataloged in 2022.

We were excited to tell Mr. Hurt and Ms. Krough what an important piece of ZTA history they had in their collection. We showed them photos of Maud wearing the badge, told the story of her influence in creating ZTA, and explained the significance of this singular piece of jewelry.

During the months after the discovery, we had many thoughtful discussions about the badge. As a result, we were happy to report to National Council that the Farmville Prince Edward Historical Society felt the badge should come home to Zeta Tau Alpha and take its place alongside the personal items of the other eight Founders. We were filled with emotion at what this badge represented, and to feel the

connection to Maud. It was even more meaningful that the discovery of the badge could be a part of our celebration of 125 years of sisterhood in Farmville where we walked in the footsteps of our Founders.

We are so thankful for our new collaborators at the Farmville Prince Edward Historical Society and Longwood’s Greenwood Library Archives, both of whom work to preserve local history and the history of Longwood. We are thankful to Mr. Hurt who brought Farmville’s past to life for us through his knowledge and passion, and to archivists at Longwood like Ms. Krough who manage artifacts with such care. Because of their passion, a small part of Maud was returned to ZTA on a most historic occasion. We hope its home in our Historical and Educational Center will inspire generations of sisters to follow in Maud’s footsteps and Seek the Noblest.

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New program educates members and victims/survivors

By Christy Marx Barber, Staff Writer

Bonny is a sexual violence survivor.

Makenzie is the daughter of a sexual violence survivor.

Mandy is the friend of a sexual violence survivor.

For these very personal reasons, they have committed to educating themselves and others about matters that often go unspoken. They are volunteer facilitators for Zeta Tau Alpha’s newest Lifelong Learning curriculum–the Relationship and Sexual Violence Program (RSVP).

Piloted with eight collegiate chapters in the 2022-2023 academic year, RSVP is now part of a rotation of Lifelong Learning programs, along with Alcohol Skills Training and Healthy Belonging. Each chapter will receive one of these programs every other year. Thirty-six ZTA volunteers with backgrounds in sexual violence advocacy, mental health care, medical care and social services attended RSVP training in November 2023 and began their in-person visits this semester.

BONNY BOUTET SHADE

Kappa Tau

Florida Gulf Coast University Bonny worked in higher education for 12 years and now owns her company, “Bonny Shade Speaks.” She delivers keynote presentations to 25,000 students annually about community building, belonging and sexual violence. “About nine years ago, I was coming to terms with my own sexual violence victim/survivor story that occurred when I was in college,” Bonny said. As a result, she wrote a keynote speech that defined sexual violence, healthy relationships, healthy sex and consent.

“Up until about 2017, no one wanted to discuss this topic; it felt taboo,” she said. “Then came the ‘Me Too’ movement and more stories and statistics about relationship and sexual violence. Generation Z students began to ask for help on how to respond.”

As a member of ZTA’s Harm Reduction Mentor Committee, Bonny wanted to provide a holistic view on education that focused on what individuals could control, including environmental theory. Were our chapters and our campuses creating or co-signing on an environment that allows sexual violence to occur? “We did a deep dive into what we thought ZTA needed, what we are great at, and where we need help,” she said.

above: The spectrum, created by Bonny, shows that many common experiences are considered sexual violence.

The result was the RSVP workshop with its core components of healthy relationships, healthy sex, understanding sexual violence and consent, as well as supporting a sister or friend in crisis. “RSVP is centered around the Key Value of Lifelong Learning,” Bonny said. “Our members learn to respond to relationship or sexual violence personally or with a friend. That’s a skill we can use all our lives.”

MAKENZIE WETHINGTON

BASDEN

Delta Zeta

Sam Houston State University

For much of her life before college, Makenzie watched her mother experience an abusive relationship. “She was always open with me and my sister,” Makenzie said. “She never hid it from us.” When Makenzie became her chapter’s Risk Management Chair, she asked her mother, who had no public speaking experience, to talk with her ZTA sisters about her experience. Her mother agreed.

During the presentation, chapter members one by one began to stand up if something similar had happened to them. Eight brave sisters felt compelled to share with others. “They wanted everyone to know relationship and sexual violence is lot more common than we think.” Makenzie said. “It could happen to any of us, not just this woman standing in front of us telling her story. The number of women who approached her privately after her presentation was the most rewarding result of her experience. She said it was very freeing.”

Makenzie appreciates the unique RSVP structure. “It’s bold,” she said. “It talks first about what a healthy relationship looks like. Then it eases into the uncomfortable things. It’s very effective.” She also calls the concept of a spectrum of relationship violence “eye-opening.”

“In high school, sending nude pictures was normal,” she said. “I never saw it as violence, but now I can see how it is an act of power that could lead to something else.”

MANDY DAY OPICKA

Eta Pi

Wright State University

Mandy was initiated in 2002 and still clearly remembers a college friend telling her about a sexual violence incident. “I didn’t have the words to respond, and I didn’t know where to take her to get help,” Mandy said.

For over 12 years, Mandy worked as a victim advocate for a prosecutor’s officer near Dayton, Ohio, a town with eight colleges within a 30-mile radius. “The number of times I responded at the hospital to a college student victim was disproportionate to the population,” she said. When she met a college student victim, she “always thought about my ZTA sisters. The burden fell on me to inform them and allow them to talk about their experience.”

She believes RSVP is a valuable educational tool.

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college age women experience sexual violence.

“It resonates in a way that other programs do not. RSVP teaches how to know the warning signals in a relationship and how to respond,” Mandy said. “We all tend to lean on our sisters and talk to them about our dating situations. Our sisters are the likely place for us to turn after a trauma.”

Bonny, who trained Mandy, Makenzie and the other facilitators, is eager to see her vision at work. “When I was victimized in college, I desperately wanted someone to wrap their arms around me and offer help,” she said. “I want college women to know and use what I learned and to feel supported and validated in their story.”

A RECIPE FOR MAKING MEMORIES

By Christy Marx Barber, Staff Writer

In the earliest days of the Fraternity, ZTA’s Founders began the tradition of Zetas sharing delicious food with sisters and friends. They hosted an oyster stew party to announce their name and shared a basket of strawberries–the first gift received by Alpha Chapter.

That joy of sharing food and conversation with sisters continues to enhance ZTA collegiate gatherings in chapter houses and campus eateries, as well as strengthening the bonds within alumnae chapters.

ZTA has published two cookbooks in its history, including one in 1990, titled “Joys Shared.” In that cookbook, Theta Tau Chapter (The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill) shared a recipe for shrimp scampi. It called for 20 pounds of shrimp to serve 50 to 60 members. In 2024, about 120 members eat lunch and dinner at the Theta Tau house, Monday through Friday. House Director Denise Visbal laughed at the thought and cost of serving scampi now, but said, “they do love their seafood, however.”

Denise says lunch at the chapter house is the best part of the members’ day. “They love to sit together and talk about how they have spent their day,” she said. “There’s lots of screaming and excitement to see each other. Sometimes, there is sadness if an exam didn’t go well. But almost always laughter and uplifting and encouraging conversation.”

The dining room at Theta Tau features 16 tables set in four rows, “like a family picnic dinner only multiplied by 100,” Denise says. “Lunch time is very energetic. Dinner is a little more chill because everyone is tired and less talkative.”

The food is cooked by Greek House Chefs but suggested by the chapter members through an online app called Crave. Everyone can also critique the meals afterwards. The favorite dish of the Theta Tau ladies is “Zeta Dessert”–mint ice cream with crumbled Oreo cookies and whipped cream. “They get very excited when it’s on the menu,” Denise says.

Some organizations at UNC don’t serve dinner on Friday, but it’s often a highlight of the week at Theta Tau, especially MYOP or Make Your Own Pizza. Members pick out their ingredients and get to watch the chef make their pizza.

MYOP Friday is also a favorite at Alpha Xi Chapter’s house at Indiana University. House Director Patty Thomas has been at Indiana for six years and was also House Director for Beta Omicron Chapter (University of South Carolina) and Epsilon Chapter (University of Arkansas). She says the IU members love to ask her about meals she served on the other campuses.

Planning lunch and dinner for 150 members each day can also be a learning experience for the collegians. At Alpha Xi, Patty hosts “Menu Meeting Monday” with the

House Manager and two “Food Ambassadors” each week. Then the House Manager meets with the head chef to share the ideas. The chapter loves Taco Tuesday or Greek food as they talk about upcoming social events and spring break with their sisters.

The conversation and friendship over meals is not limited to chapters with housing. Iota Omicron Chapter (Lander University) has no facility, but Schuyler (Sky) Stamper and her Big Sister, Ava Jones, share a meal every week. “My most favorite memories are when my Big and I go to eat in our cafeteria before or after our chapter meeting,” Sky said. “This gives us a chance to bond when we haven’t been able to hang out in a while. I always look forward to my Sunday meal with Ava!”

Roommates Nataly Pena and Emma Morris from Iota Psi Chapter (Rochester Institute of Technology) say their most memorable latenight taco run happened after they learned who their Little Sisters would be. “I had been home, starting our preparations for being Bigs, and Emma came home with tacos,” Nataly said. “Then we spent the rest of the night chatting excitedly about our Littles.”

Food and friendship continue in the alumnae world. Alumnae chapters often use meals as way to gather and enjoy good food, great stories and each other’s company.

Shrimp Scampi

INGREDIENTS:

» 20 lbs shrimp, cleaned

» 8-10 sticks of butter

» 10 cloves of minced garlic

» 4 cups of chopped scallions

» 8 tablespoons of chopped parsley

INSTRUCTIONS:

» Saute scallions, garlic and parsley in butter for one minute.

» Remove from heat and add shrimp, tossing to coat.

» Arrange shrimp in a shallow pan and cover with remaining butter mixture.

» Bake at 450 degrees for 5-7 minutes.

» Serve over rice or pasta.

» Serves 50-60.

Recipe from ZTA’s 1990 “Joys Shared” Cookbook, page 180. Submitted by: Theta Tau Chapter at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Noble Achievements

As Zeta Tau Alpha’s mission states, the Fraternity “emphasizes leadership development, service to others, academic achievement and personal growth for women.” It comes as no surprise, then, that members are doing amazing things within ZTA and in their communities. From earning recognition for professional success and outstanding volunteerism to helping improve the lives of others around the world, these members are making ZTA proud.

*Indicates an alumna

*Abby Allison

Alpha Upsilon Chapter

Oklahoma State University

Abby Allison received the 2023 Raymond D. Thomas Award from Oklahoma State University. This award is given annually to the top senior in the Spears School of Business. As the honoree, she wore an orange gown signifying she was the top Spears Business senior, led the Class of 2023 into commencement and was the first business student to receive her diploma. This award reflects high levels of achievement in scholarship and leadership.

*Makenzie Brosa

Alpha Mu Chapter

Washburn University

Makenzie graduated in December 2023 with a Bachelor of Science in nursing and received the school’s highest academic honor, the Sibberson Award. Makenzie received the only Sibberson Award given to December graduates. It honors the highest ranking graduate from all undergraduate programs.

*Krista L. Harrell

Iota Sigma Chapter

Old Dominion University

Since December 2022, Krista has served as the associate vice president for alumni relations at Old Dominion University. She is a three-time alumna of the school and says, “I am so honored to serve my fellow 172,000 alumni of Old Dominion University, including my ZTA sisters.” She has worked in higher education for more than 20 years and is happy to be able to give back to a place that has given her so much.

*Ginger Laws Diamond

Beta Omega Chapter

Union University

After losing her young nephew to cancer, Ginger served as a founding member of the Coalition Against Childhood Cancer. She now serves on the board of directors for this important organization that works to support families, advocate for legislation to provide safer and better treatments, and advance research.

*Raylyn Garner

Iota Omicron Chapter

Lander University

Because of Raylyn, the governor of South Carolina declared April 15 Collegiate Recovery Day. Raylyn is currently a graduate assistant with Gamecock Recovery at the University of South Carolina where she engages in community outreach to educate the campus on how to support students in recovery from substance

*Tiffany Singer Jenes

Psi Chapter

University of Washington

Bright’s Candies, co-owned by Tiffany and her husband since 1996, has been a local tradition in Walla Walla, Washington since 1934. In summer 2023, the company earned first place in the nationwide USA Today’s Best Candy Store contest. The store uses time-honored traditional candy making methods and continues to use recipes that have been handed down through the years. Large copper kettles, metal candy molds, and an antique popcorn popper are a few of the items still used to make old-fashioned confections in the candy kitchen.

use disorder. Collegiate Recovery Day was a 2023 initiative to help advocate for students statewide. Nine South Carolina colleges and universities gathered at the statehouse where students in recovery shared their stories. The event will be held again in April 2024.

*Dr. Christine Kasper Zeta Alpha Chapter University of Evansville

Christine was named Dean of the University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing in April 2023. Previously, she was both Dean and Professor at the University of New Mexico College of Nursing; the Crenshaw Endowed Research Chair and Professor at the University of California-Los Angeles; and the M. Adelaide Nutting Research Chair at Johns Hopkins University.

In 2015, Christine was named to the Sigma Theta Tau International Nurse

Researcher Hall of Fame for her research efforts. She is a distinguished scientist in military-relevant heavy metal exposures, associated environmental determinants of health, and clinical interventions.

Rylee Leong

Psi Chapter

University of Washington Rylee, former chapter President, was honored in January 2024 at the university’s Greek Awards as the Panhellenic Chapter

President of the Year for her dedicated leadership and positive impact on members. Psi Chapter also received the Panhellenic Excellence in Membership Development Award for notable growth in attendance and programming, along with commitment to success in Continuous Open Bidding activities. Additionally, the chapter earned the Excellence in Philanthropy Award for hosting successful fundraising events and innovative strategies.

*Dr. Susan Serota

Alpha Psi

University of Missouri

Dr. Serota is a Professor of Education at Westminster College and was honored as the recipient of the President’s Award for Excellence in Teaching. Established in the early 2000s, the award is presented to one Westminster faculty member each fall. Recipients are nominated by the Faculty Personnel Committee and chosen by the president of the College.

*Serena Shah

Gamma Alpha Chapter

University of Miami

Serena was named University of Miami’s Graduate Student of the Year at the Eighth Annual Toppel Career Award Ceremony in spring 2023. She was also selected as a research fellow at the prestigious Bascomb Palmer Eye Institute.

Serena will graduate with both a medical degree and a Master’s in Business Administration and plans to specialize in ophthalmology.

*Linda Knapp

Struckmeyer

Alpha Kappa Chapter University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign

Dr. Linda Struckmeyer PhD, OTR/L is a 2024 recipient of the Roster of Fellows award from the American Occupational Therapy Association. The award recognizes occupational therapists whose knowledge, expertise and leadership have made a significant contribution over time to the profession with a measured impact on occupational therapy in the AOTA.

Lily McLamb

Iota Phi

North Carolina State University

Lily was a Senate intern for North Carolina Senate Majority Whip Tom McInnis from May to December 2023. She provided daily administrative support for the General Assembly Summer Session and the remainder of the year. This opportunity gave her political awareness and an understanding of the legislative process.

Natalie Tankersley

Kappa Chi Chapter

Shorter University

Natalie has had four poems and two short stories published in 2024. Her poem, Dancing with the Devil, and a short story, The Gospel of Judas, were published in the Walnut Branch Magazine’s first issue in February. Three of her poems and a short story appeared in Shorter University’s literary magazine, “The Chimes.” This makes 15 total published works for Natalie.

*Cyndi Tucker

Gamma Zeta Chapter

Mississippi State University

Cyndi was honored as the 2023 Alumnus of the Year for the College of Business at Mississippi State University for her years of service to the school. She earned a bachelor’s degree in economics and her MBA from MSU.

Cyndi serves on the MSU College of Business’s executive advisory board, is a longtime member of the Bulldog Club and a loyal supporter of student scholarships.

*Judy Grier Thompson Mu Chapter Drury University

The Judy Thompson Executive Conference Center at Drury University opened in January 2023. The 12,000-square foot conference center is named in honor of Judy who has served more than 50 years at the school.

By Christy Marx Barber, Staff Writer

The celebration of a milestone as significant as 125 years of anything should be exceptionally special, creative and inclusive. Zeta Tau Alpha’s continuing celebration of 125 years of a timeless sisterhood is all those things.

While Oct. 15, 2023, was the actual day ZTA turned 125, the Fraternity’s commemoration will span almost exactly nine months coincidentally one month for each Founder. The final event in the anniversary festivities will be Convention 2024, which begins July 17 in Indianapolis.

How it all started:

National Council appointed a 125th Anniversary Committee after Convention 2022 and the committee met for the first time in August of that year. “We brainstormed lots of ideas,” Committee Chair Marlene Dunbar Conrad said. “We wanted it to be a big celebration, but we didn’t want the event to take away from Convention.”

Founders’ Day 2023 fell on a Sunday, so the events could naturally occur over a weekend. “That made it easier to invite members to come back to the place where it all started,” Mrs. Conrad said. “We opened it to all members, but we also knew Longwood is a small campus with not a lot of large meeting spaces, so our numbers would have to be somewhat limited. Our goal was always to accommodate as many sisters who wanted to attend as possible.”

In March 2023, Archives Committee Chair Susan L. Beard and Archivist

also visited the local historical society to determine if any places the Founders would have visited when they were in school were still in use.

Joining them on that visit were Mrs. Conrad and National President Dinah Jackson Laughery. Mrs. Laughery had been to Longwood once before on a very short visit. This second trip stirred up strong emotions for her. “Being with these sisters, where our sisterhood started, was very moving and I was

members on those campuses. But touring Farmville and Longwood felt different. It felt unique. This is the place that is tied to all of us by our Fraternity’s history.”

After the research visit, the committee began to meet every other week to plan the in-person experience. Registration for the celebration opened in June and, despite the limited space, everyone who registered or expressed interest was confirmed as an attendee. In all, almost 300 women made plans to travel to Farmville for what would resemble a pilgrimage.

On-Campus Experience

A pilgrimage is traditionally a journey to a sacred place. “The majority of guests wanted to walk in the footsteps of the Founders. The feeling was very special,” Mrs. Conrad said. Guests took a self-directed walking tour Saturday afternoon, Oct. 14, on the Longwood campus. At nine different stops, Zetas used their cell phones to view videos about these historic locations. The stops included the Historic Marker in honor of the Farmville Four sororities (Sigma Sigma Sigma, Zeta Tau Alpha, Kappa Delta, Alpha Sigma Alpha), the Rotunda in the main building where our Founders originally met, the four-sided clock from the Centennial events, French Hall, where Zetas could find their chapter’s link in the Chain of Chapters, and the Alpha Chapter room.

Alpha Chapter collegiate members were guides at each tour stop, joined by a member of National Council, a former National President or a Fraternity Housing Corporation board member. The collegians

held posters with fun facts to use as conversation starters as guests came to their location. A few Alpha collegians also live-streamed a campus tour for social media so everyone could experience it!

After the tours, the ZTA Foundation hosted an evening reception in the Farmville train station for all alumnae. The train station is the original location where the Founders met arriving new members and family or began the short trip to dances at Hampden-Sydney College.

125TH TRUSTEES

The 125th celebration coincided with the ZTA Foundation’s fourth annual Day of Giving. Sixty-two generous sisters chose to mark both occasions with a special 125th Trustee donation. These Zetas were treated to an exclusive Saturday morning tour of the churches where two Founders and their families worshipped.

The Trustees first visited New Store Presbyterian Church to learn more about Maud Jones Horner; her brother, Plummer Flippen Jones, who helped his sister write ZTA’s Constitution and Ritual; and Grace Elcan, Alpha Chapter’s first new member. Both Maud and Grace were married in that church and Maud’s wedding dress was on display. The second stop was the Village Presbyterian Church in Charlotte Court House where Founder Frances Yancey Smith; her brother Giles Mebane Smith, who suggested the name Zeta Tau Alpha and designed the badge, and their family are buried. The Trustees placed white roses on the Smith family graves.

HEY ZETA, IT’S YOUR BIRTHDAY

On Sunday morning, Mrs. Laughery and alumnae and collegiate members from Alpha Chapter conducted the Founders’ Day Service. All guests were invited to attend, and the service was streamed live online. Zetas from across the country joined in to watch the live service and to witness history from Longwood’s campus. The recording was also posted online for chapters to use in their own celebrations.

Following the service, Zetas enjoyed a closing luncheon on campus. Longwood President Taylor Reveley IV delighted the audience by mentioning he came from a family of Alpha Sigma Alphas but made certain to wear turquoise. He had brushed up on his ZTA history. “In 1898, certainly something was surely afoot here in the Rotunda, by candlelight, in the bathroom,” he said.

left: Collegians and Former National President Nan Barkley Boettcher on the campus tour top: Attendees take a photo opportunity near the four sorority histroical marker

Alpha Chapter President Emma Weber welcomed guests on behalf of the collegiate members. “We are not just celebrating a number, but a legacy of empowerment, friendship and the remarkable women who have carried on ZTA through many generations,” she said.

Mrs. Laughery shared her personal reflections on the two days in Farmville. “Walking across campus gave me an incredible sense of gratitude for the nine women who founded our Fraternity,” she said. “Being here and taking it all in makes me pause and ask, ‘what do our Founders and this place mean to me?’ I will cherish this memory for a very long time.”

The luncheon closed with a reveal of the most significant and surprising result of the extensive anniversary research—finding Maud Jones Horner’s original Founders’ badge. This announcement was met with

surprise, joy and a standing ovation from all in attendance. (See page 8 Archives story). The story of finding the badge had been revealed to the former National Presidents, members of ZTA’s three national boards and the 125th Trustees during their special tour. Everyone was sworn to secrecy until the luncheon announcement. The discovery of Maud’s badge might be the best kept ZTA secret ever.

ZTA FOUNDATION GIVES BACK

• $9,000 to Longwood’s scholarship fund

• $1,000 each to:

• Prince Edward County Historical Society and Longwood Archives

• New Store Presbyterian Church

• Village Presbyterian Church in Charlotte Courthouse

:

left: This plaque was installed on Grainger Hall to commemorate the location where our Founders studied to become teachers.

above

Zetas from 29 states journeyed to Farmville to celebrate.

Ongoing Virtual Celebration

Members who could not attend the celebration at Longwood can still experience the weekend online. In addition to the Founders’ Day Service video, the 125th Anniversary news story on ZTA’s website has links to videos of the nine campus tour stops, five Alpha Chapter alumnae recalling their interactions as collegians with the Founders Frances Yancey Smith and Ruby Leigh Orgain and first new member Grace Elcan, and the story of Maud’s badge.

Since November 2023 and until Convention in July 2024, ZTA’s social media platforms are highlighting one of the nine Founders on the fifteenth of each month. Nearly every day, the ZTA Facebook page also features a link in the Chain of Chapters and encourages members of that chapter to post their own photos of their collegiate days.

OUR SHARED PURPOSE

Honoring 125 Years of Zeta Tau Alpha

The Fraternity has produced a 160-page, full-color keepsake book, featuring 460 photographs. A team of volunteers and staff members have dedicated months to this project, working together to select the right objects, photos and words to honor 125 years. From the early days of the Fraternity’s founding to Founders’ Day 2023, “Our Shared Purpose” illustrates ZTA sisterhood, following the components of the purpose statement, just as the Historical and Educational Center does.

This treasure is available for preorder now on Crown and Co. for pick up in person at Convention or shipment in July.

CONVENTION 2024

The celebration of 125 years of ZTA’s timeless sisterhood will conclude with biggest party of all, Convention 2024, July 17-21, at the JW Marriott in Indianapolis. This milestone Convention will incorporate bits of history into the traditional program. Convention delegates and guests will be able to browse items from the archives at the hotel and can choose to take a tour of International Office and the Historical and Education Center.

Registration closes on May 1, 2024.

SCAN ME

to read more about the 125th celebration weekend and watch the videos

125TH ANNIVERSARY COMMITTEE MEMBERS:

Dinah Jackson Laughery

Beta Gamma, Florida State University National President

Carolyn Hof Carpenter

Theta Tau, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill ZTA Foundation President

Natalie Yingling Lisko

Delta Omega, Westminster College

ZTA Fraternity Housing Corporation President

Marlene Dunbar Conrad

Eta Iota, Valdosta State University

ZTA Foundation

Vice President Philanthropy Committee Chair

Susan L. Beard

Delta Psi, Samford University Archives Committee Chair

Hannah Strickland Groseclose

Gamma Pi, University of Georgia Committee Member

Brooke Johnson Leppla

Eta Pi, Wright State University Committee Member

Patti Cords Levitte

Beta Phi, Michigan State University Archivist

With assistance from:

Becky Hainsworth Kirwan

Beta Gamma, Washington College

ZTA Foundation Director

Terri Dew Millsap

Alpha Nu, Birmingham-Southern College Archives Committee Member

Meghan Vicinus Parker

Alpha Upsilon, Oklahoma State University Executive Director

Carrie Armentrout Hoffeditz

Eta Lambda, College of Charleston

Senior Director of Operations/Personnel

CERTIFICATE OF MERIT RECIPIENTS

The alumnae Certificate of Merit is a national award presented at a Zeta Day or other special event. To receive this honor, members must have a minimum seven years of significant post-collegiate service to ZTA. Alumnae chapters may submit the names and qualifications of alumnae to their District President by Oct. 1. National Council considers each recommendation and awards certificates to those who receive unanimous approval.

Congratulations to the following 91 dedicated Zetas, listed in order by chapter link, who received their Certificates of Merit in 2023.

Katherine Cozart Barnard, Alpha Longwood University

Lindsey Brooke Lawrence, Epsilon University of Arkansas

Peggy Raymond Slater, Zeta

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Mallory Garcia Payan, Kappa

The University of Texas at Austin

Megan Bailey Turnipseed, Lambda Southwestern University

Kelsey Brooke Emerson, Mu Drury University

Susan Logghe Grimes, Mu Drury University

Carol Ritzen Kem, Mu Drury University

Lucretia Gable Pladera, Mu Drury University

Jennifer Watson Gushleff, Tau Milikin University

Molly Stephins Bonthuis, Psi University of Washington

Kathy Joy Vieson, Alpha Zeta

The Ohio State University

Jane Billinger, Alpha Mu Washburn University

Amy Stineman Adam, Alpha Omicron

The University of Iowa

Valerie Weidenhamer Daters, Alpha Omicron

The University of Iowa

Sarah Hotop Tate, Alpha Omicron

The University of Iowa

Valerie Williams Schulz, Alpha Upsilon Oklahoma State University

Missy Hoover Browning, Alpha Psi University of Missouri

Angie Renee Woods, Alpha Psi University of Missouri

Linda West Anderson, Beta Eta University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Ruth Hagedorn Brown, Beta Eta University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Jane Wilhite Hines, Beta Eta University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Linda Brownlee Sparks, Beta Eta University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Abby Goodin Dulany, Beta Nu New Mexico State University

Leigh Chirgwin Kleinert, Beta Phi Michigan State University

Meredith Jeanette Erlandson, Beta Omega Union University

Jeannie Sims Hopper, Beta Omega Union University

Emily Elizabeth Hordesky, Gamma Beta Washington College

Emily Simpson Huff, Gamma Beta Washington College

Kelsey Linn Kelley, Gamma Mu University of Nebraska at Omaha

Jess Craft McSorley, Gamma Mu University of Nebraska at Omaha

Becky Norton Widhalm, Gamma Mu University of Nebraska at Omaha

Lindsay Lucas McConnell, Gamma Pi University of Georgia

Jessi Hodge Adams, Gamma Rho Auburn University

Alice Sneed Miller, Gamma Rho Auburn University

Barbara Barr Rogers, Gamma Psi Texas Chrisitan University

Rachel Maureen Cashdollar, Delta Beta Florida Southern College

Taneha Wray Elliott, Delta Beta Florida Southern College

Rachel Hope Norford, Delta Gamma High Point University

Amanda Dawn Wyant, Delta Delta Baldwin Wallace University

Susan Doherty Cason, Delta Zeta Sam Houston State University

Amy Hebert Van Meter, Delta Zeta Sam Houston State University

Julie Vantrease Mayfield, Delta Mu The University of Tennessee at Martin

Krista Grabowski White, Delta Omicron Lenoir-Rhyne University

MariAnne Ortega, Delta Sigma Lamar University

Morgan Renae Meadows-Davis, Delta Upsilon

West Virginia Wesleyan College

Kate Schlarf, Zeta Alpha University of Evansville

Elise Wrye Boyett, Zeta Xi Georgia Southern University

Liz Foster Cooper, Zeta Xi

Georgia Southern University

Lori Guy Daniel, Eta Alpha

Georgia Southwestern University

Carla Marie White, Eta Epsilon Mansfield University of Pennsylvania

Pamela Lee Scarborough, Eta Theta Missouri University of Science and Technology

Brittney Nicole Voss, Eta Theta Missouri University of Science and Technology

Ashley Herrington Bennett, Eta Iota Valdosta State University

Christine Mulkay, Eta Kappa University of Central Florida

Brandi Nicole Cross, Eta Sigma

The University of North Carolina at Pembroke

Alyssa Baker Godwin, Eta Tau

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Susan Hooker Bigham, Eta Chi Francis Marion University

Karyn Michelle Lovins, Theta Alpha California State University, Chico

Yuriko Norita Beaman, Theta Delta Salisbury University

Heather Giovenco, Theta Delta Salisbury University

Sarah Alpe Neihouse, Theta Theta Arkansas Tech University

Lauren Ginsberg Webber, Theta Iota University of North Florida

Sarah Rosegrant Frederick, Theta Kappa University of Missouri – St. Louis

Rebecca Candace Able, Theta Nu Auburn University at Montgomery

Tara Rabinowitz Hack, Theta Xi Rutgers University

Lee Smith Flowers, Theta Omicron Baylor University

Karyn M. Levesque, Theta Chi George Mason University

Lindsey Hendrix Brown, Theta Psi Texas State University

Marjorie Javier Stevenson, Theta Omega California State Polytechnic University, Pomona

WHITE VIOLETS

Kim Topolewski Thompson, Iota Alpha Robert Morris University

Megan Marie Cronhardt, Iota Delta Towson University

Gloria Leija Ayala, Iota Eta University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Diane Marie Doubrava, Iota Eta University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Cyndi L. Rosa, Iota Eta University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Julie Eyer, Iota Nu Susquehanna University

Tiffany Ouzts Pace, Iota Omicron Lander University

Kelly Tracy Sullivan, Iota Pi University of Dayton

Lauren Bresnahan Brandt, Iota Rho East Carolina University

Taryn Cavaco Crawford, Iota Rho East Carolina University

Jennifer Pepe Pedicone, Iota Psi Rochester Institute of Technology

Kristen Stauff Deason, Iota Omega University of Maryland

Melanie Routhieaux Ginzburg, Kappa Beta Presbyterian College

Alexa Chase Pack, Kappa Beta Presbyterian College

Claire Dunford Shaver, Kappa Eta Rockhurst University

Megan Coleman Banta, Kappa Mu Linfield University

Brittany Zahn DiMeglio, Kappa Sigma University of South Florida

April Croft Wideman, Kappa Chi Shorter University

Heidi Michelle Frey, Kappa Psi Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

Krystal Rose Silcox, Kappa Psi Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

Amanda M. Gonzalez, Lambda Delta Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi

A White Violet is a Zeta Tau Alpha who has been a member of the Fraternity for 50 years. In 2023, ZTA honored 455 of these members with the Order of the Shield Recognition Service at a Zeta Day or other special event. These women received a White Violet pin and certificate from the Fraternity in recognition of their continuous dedication to friendship and sisterhood.

Members who reach the 75-year membership milestone receive a White Violet charm as a gift from the Fraternity. Congratulations to these 33 sisters who celebrated 75 years as Zeta Tau Alphas in 2023.

Barbara Pomeroy Scidmore, Epsilon University of Arkansas

Pat Simon Keahon, Theta Bethany College

Marjorie MacFarland Griffin, Kappa

The University of Texas at Austin

Jody Edmondson King, Kappa

The University of Texas at Austin

Marie King Earl, Xi University of Southern California

Charlotte R. Hartness, Upsilon University of California, Berkeley

Joseph H. Inglese, Upsilon University of California, Berkeley

Rusty Willett Hodge, Phi Duke University

Martha Meranda Raiss, Alpha Gamma University of Michigan

Elizabeth French Goulais, Alpha Gamma University of Michigan

Gratia Gilbreath, Alpha Delta Butler University

Eunice Engelke Snyder, Alpha Eta University of Cincinnati

Bobby Dwyer, Alpha Kappa University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

William P. Morrison, Alpha Kappa University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Constance Ann Racht, Alpha Xi Indiana University

Nancy Reighard Wynant, Alpha Xi Indiana University

Doris Franson Haas, Alpha Omicron The University of Iowa

Mary M. Myers Gilliland, Alpha Upsilon Oklahoma State University

Catherine Fletcher Ritchie, Alpha Upsilon Oklahoma State University

Mrs. Norman Pike, Alpha Phi Northwestern University

Dee Rogers Merritt, Alpha Psi University of Missouri

Dr. Ida Santos Stewart, Beta Gamma Florida State University

Joyce Bodley White, Beta Epsilon University of California, Los Angeles

Carolyn Scudder De Boer, Beta Theta Franklin College

Nancy Ferguson Roepke, Beta Xi University of Akron

Lois Gill Criss, Beta Xi University of Akron

Dolores Friedrich Graves, Beta Pi University of Oregon

H. Rea Willoughby Nesbitt, Beta Rho University of Manitoba

Trudy Jackson Williamson, Beta Psi Stetson University

Joy Hayes Miller, Beta Omega Union University

Bobbie Taylor Kaufmann Stephens, Gamma Delta University of Mississippi

Pauly Moss Dodd, Gamma Epsilon Pennsylvania State University

Mrs. Glenn Chafee, Gamma Theta University of Colorado at Boulder

ALPHA CHAPTER CELEBRATES 125 YEARS IN LONGWOOD

By Christy Marx Barber, Staff Writer

While the entire Fraternity celebrated 125 years of Zeta Tau Alpha on Sunday, Oct. 15, 2023, the alumnae of Alpha Chapter commemorated of 125 years of their special Longwood University sisterhood one day early on Saturday, Oct. 14.

A year ahead of the celebration, Anniversary Chair Kathleen Early and her committee of sisters from five decades of Alpha Chapter set out to mark the milestone with service, fellowship and fun. They asked Alpha alumnae to bring food and monetary donations for a Farmville food pantry. They encouraged sisters to search their own collections of ZTA memorabilia for the Longwood archives. An alumna volunteered her home and her husband’s grilling expertise for an afternoon barbecue, and another booked her husband’s band for a happy hour that lasted long into the evening.

Eighty sisters representing seven decades of Alpha Chapter traveled to Farmville, not just from Virginia, but from as far away as Oregon, California, Florida, Georgia and Tennessee. The oldest was Jo Dearing Smith, who was initiated in 1957 and graduated in 1960.

“It was wonderful to have so many people reconnect, especially those who had not been back to campus in 30 or 40 years,” Kathleen said. “It all came back to us. We could sing the old chants and recruitment songs. I will always remember how so many different decades shared a connection no matter when they were at Longwood.”

The alumnae collected 150 pounds of food, including donations from sisters from other chapters who were in Farmville for ZTA’s national celebration. Donations for the school’s archives included plaques, t-shirts and antique badges.

Alpha alumnae also connected with the sisters attending the national event. They visited the chapter room in Stubbs Hall to meet collegians and browse scrapbooks. A few members took the self-guided tour of campus with visitors from other chapters. “We have lived it and walked it,” Kathleen said. “It was amazing to have the opportunity to share Farmville and Longwood history and our campus with so many people. We all feel a special bond to Alpha Chapter and the three other National Panhellenic Conference groups on campus.” On Founders’ Day, Kathleen and four other Alpha alumnae participated in the Founders’ Day Service with National President Dinah Jackson Laughery.

At the closing luncheon, Kathleen presented commemorative letters sent to the chapter from Virginia’s Senators Tim Kaine and Mark Warner and Governor Glenn Youngkin.

“As part of our planning, we felt passionately that everyone in Virginia should know that ZTA has a 125-year history in our home state,” Kathleen said.

[1] Alpha Chapter President, Emma Weber, accepts the 125th anniversary gift, an acrylic plaque with a replica of the chapter’s link in the Chain

[2] Alpha alumnae share memories in the chapter suite.

[3] Alpha alumnae are welcomed back to campus.

[4] Alumnae and collegians celebrate 125 years of Alpha at the Founders’ Day Service.

Introducing

OUR SHARED PURPOSE

A limited-edition book published in honor of ZTA's 125th Anniversary

Explore our past and be inspired by our timeless sisterhood as you browse this 12x9 inch, 160-page, hard-cover keepsake.

Our Shared Purpose includes:

More than 350 photos from our unmatched archival collection 30 pages of personal memorabilia from, and photos of, our nine Founders

A pictorial review of philanthropy, housing, recruitment and Conventions over 125 years

Historical listings of all Conventions, chapter installations and ZTA national board Presidents

An embossed linen cover with a four-color dust cover

Collegiate

chapter news

[1] Zeta

University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Chapter members participated in Keep Knoxville Beautiful, a local community service project. Sisters picked up trash and debris in the area to build a cleaner surrounding area. Each sister was responsible for filling up three bags of trash to give back to their community alongside their sisters.

[2] Mu

Drury University

Pi Beta Phi’s annual lip-sync battle, “Putting on the Lips,’’ was an opportunity for ZTA sisters to test their stage presence and use their leadership and team-building skills to create their act. The rest of the chapter attended to support ZTA in Pi Phi’s philanthropy event. Sisters formed stronger connections with other organizations and each other in the process.

Sigma

Baker University

The chapter members created their own “Build A Bear Workshop.” Each sister brought their favorite stuffed animal to life and received a plush heart to place inside their fluffy friend. Everyone made a wish on their heart and received a “birth certificate” signed by the Director of Sisterhood.

Psi

University of Washington

Nearly 40 sisters visited the Seattle Art Museum to expand their knowledge and explore the museum together. Many of the exhibits featured indigenous artists from the Pacific Northwest. The opportunity allowed members to experience the concept of lifelong learning, something the chapter takes pride in.

Alpha Theta

Purdue University

The chapter’s Sisterhood Chairs turned up the heat on National Strawberry Ice Cream Day with strawberry donuts! With freezing temperatures outside, sisters embraced the cold with warm hearts and sugary treats. Chapter members also spent the day honoring Martin Luther King Jr., turning the gathering into a sweet celebration of sisterhood and unity.

[3] Beta Psi

Stetson University

Chapter members held a sisterhood event that encouraged transparent communication among each other in a nonverbal way. After listening to a prompt, members placed their painted handprints on the white t-shirts of other sisters whom they felt represented the meaning of the prompt. Some examples included “touch someone beautiful inside and out” and “touch someone who inspires you.”

Gamma Omicron

Central Michigan University

Chapter officers conducted an Executive Committee Retreat for their incoming board. The fulfilling day-long retreat included team bonding, goal setting, planning and identifying noble leadership styles to weave the strength of the executive board members together and learn how to serve their chapter as a unit.

Gamma Rho

Auburn University

Every November sisters host ZLAMsgiving to celebrate the holiday and express thankfulness for every member. The menu is poppy seed chicken, green bean casserole, mashed potatoes and pie. Chapter members enjoy each other’s company with this traditional feast before heading home for Thanksgiving break.

Delta Beta

Florida Southern College

The chapter hosted a mock recruitment practice with Beta Psi Chapter (Stetson University). This event allowed both chapters to practice two nights of recruitment. Delta Beta acted as recruiters and Beta Psi sisters were the potential new members. Following the event, the two chapters shared lunch and received feedback about their performance from each other.

[4] Delta Gamma

High Point University

During Homecoming weekend, the chapter hosted a brunch for alumnae. Sisters bridged the gap between generations and connected with sisters initiated as far back as 1977. Alumnae and collegians got to step inside a time capsule of memories and bond over the timeless connection of ZTA’s sisterhood.

Delta Delta

Baldwin Wallace University

Big and Little Sister plaque exchange is a beloved tradition in this chapter. Big/ Little pairs create decorated wooden plaques as a gift to one another. The plaque decorations illustrate each other’s interests. The exchange unifies ZTA connections and inspires the rest of the chapter who love to watch the presentation.

Delta Lambda

Georgia State University

The Vice President III/Membership

Chair and President surprised the chapter at the end of its last meeting of the semester with a trip to the Atlanta Botanical Gardens to see the Garden Lights, Holiday Nights display. It was an evening filled with sisterhood, hot cocoa and holiday cheer.

[5] Delta Psi

Samford University

All Executive Committee and advisors went to Camp Lee for a weekend retreat before the first day of spring semester classes. The members experienced

several team-bonding activities including an obstacle course and canoeing. The retreat was also filled with brainstorming, setting goals and togetherness.

[6] Eta Rho

The University of North Alabama

Chapter members gathered at an alumna’s house for an annual holiday celebration. Collegians and alumnae enjoyed food, fellowship and an ornament swap. The night was filled with pictures, matching pajamas and laughter before final exams and heading home for winter break.

[7] Eta Sigma

The University of North Carolina at Pembroke

As a way of giving back to the community, sisters wrote thank-you notes to first responders and took them to the campus police station to be distributed. Chapter members were able to show their gratitude for the local responders who keep their community safe every day.

Theta Delta

Salisbury University

This chapter organized a gingerbread house competition and sisterhood event with the sisters of Delta Gamma on their campus. In Panhellenic spirit, each fourperson team had two members from both ZTA and DG. While the two chapter Presidents judged the sugary creations, everyone enjoyed hot cocoa and snacks. Members of the top three teams received gift cards.

Theta Iota

University of North Florida

A trip to a local escape room served as a bonding activity for Big/Little sisters and their ZTA “family” members. Working together to escape before time ran out helped to build trust and deeper connections with members from different new member classes and within the chapter as a whole.

Theta Zeta

Wofford College

At the chapter’s Thanksgiving-themed sisterhood event, members visually expressed personal gratitude. While sharing a traditional Thanksgiving meal, they wrote what they were thankful for on a banner for the entire chapter to see. Sisters also wrote letters to one another to share the personal reasons they are grateful for one another.

[8] Iota Alpha

Robert Morris University

During Zeta Week, the chapter held a New Member Celebration. Sisters printed out photos of each new member on cardstock and other members wrote what they loved about that person. When everyone received their picture back, they were able to savor their sisters’ warm thoughts and take the photos home as a memory.

Iota Iota

Fairleigh Dickinson University

As a way to give back during the holidays, sisters put together boxes for children in need. Chapter members filled the boxes with toys, clothing, personal care items and other things they thought children would love to receive. The project shared kindness and love to those “without our circle.”

Iota Omicron

Lander University

The chapter joyously welcomed its wonderful Continuous Open Bidding new members with a themed photoshoot. Photos taken in front of a backdrop of “berry bliss” captured the essence of the sweet sisterhood and the joy and freshness of the journey the new members would take as they learned more about ZTA.

Iota Sigma

Old Dominion University

A chapter member presented an excellent program on the ways stress manifests itself and finding wellsuited coping mechanisms. During this interactive event, sisters engaged in vulnerable conversations to strengthen understanding of one another and to deepen the connection between sisters.

Kappa Mu

Linfield College

The chapter hosted a fun and successful informal social event with a Barbie theme. Zetas and their guests dressed appropriately for the theme and enjoyed dancing to a curated music playlist and taking photos in front of the fun Barbie-themed backdrops.

[9] Kappa Upsilon

Georgia College

The chapter hosted its annual “Family Day” with a theme of “Come One, Come All.” The interactive event was held at the chapter house, decorated inside and out to fit the circus theme. Carnival balloons, a lemonade stand and live music from a local band provided all the right feels for this fun day.

[10] Lambda Upsilon

University of Wisconsin – Madison

The chapter Historian and sisters found wonderful locations for informal photo shoots that produced just the right shots for their social media platforms. They posed on historic Bascom Hill on campus and then walked to the local farmers market in downtown Madison where they tried food from local vendors and made flower bouquets.

INTRODUCING A NEW WAY FOR SISTERS TO BECOME DUES-PAYING MEMBERS AND SUPPORT OUR SISTERHOOD!

Alumnae now have three ways to be considered dues-paying.

• Local alumnae chapter

• ZTAlways

• National alumnae dues

National alumnae dues are $33 a year (that’s $0.09 a day, a penny per Founder!) and support Fraternity operations in many ways, including, but not limited to:

• Efforts of hundreds of ZTA volunteers supporting collegiate and alumnae chapters

• Expansion on new campuses

• Quarterly printing and distribution of Themis magazine

• Membership retention efforts, including communication to collegians’ parents and graduating seniors to help with the transition to the alumnae world

• Marketing efforts to potential new members across the country

• In-person gatherings such as Convention and Leadership Academies

• Speakers and other educational and professional development opportunities for both collegians and alumnae

chapter news Alumnae

Huntsville

Alabama

At the chapter’s annual Pajamas and Pancakes Christmas Party, members collected donations for Manna House, a local non-profit organization that gives canned foods, warm meals, clothing, toys and toiletries to local homeless and food insecure families. They also played Christmas bingo and had a selfcare gift exchange.

[1] San Diego

California

Members of the chapter gathered to participate in a Zentangle event that combines art and zen with principles from meditation. The activity was led by a local artist and Zeta sister who created a welcoming environment for all levels of art ability.

San Francisco and Marin Counties California

Sisters enjoyed a holiday brunch hosted in an alumna’s home. In addition to great food, the event included both a holiday recipe and an ornament exchange. This

warm and cozy holiday gathering was such a success that the chapter plans to host it annually.

Boulder Colorado

Chapter members met to make treats for the collegians of Kappa Alpha Chapter (Colorado State University). The alumnae hand-dipped pretzels into melted chocolate and coated them in sprinkles. These sweet surprises and other snacks were delivered to the collegiate chapter in time for finals week studying.

Northwest Florida

The chapter hosted a fun and very successful Bunco Night with food, drinks and some sisterly competition. The 29 sisters in attendance paid a minimum of $10 to join the games. All money collected was donated to the ZTA Foundation.

Palm Beach County Florida

Sisters enjoyed spending time with each other at Picasso’s Painting while crafting their own unique ceramic masterpieces. The event offered the opportunity to be creative and nibble on breakfast treats prepared by the members, including fruit skewers, bagels, quiches and brunch cake. It was a wonderful morning, filled with the art of sisterhood.

[2] Atlanta Alpha Georgia

This chapter remembers that the important week of studying for final exams always goes better with snacks and treats. They met prior to the end of fall semester at Georgia State University to fill goody bags for the collegiate sisters of Delta Lambda Chapter. The alumnae hoped the thoughtful gifts would inspire and encourage success.

[3] Atlanta Themis

Georgia

A chapter member opened her home to alumnae for a crochet party. All attendees received a small yarn ball and crochet hook and sisters who were proficient in crocheting shared their skills. The chapter enjoyed learning to crochet a small key chain or a potholder.

Augusta

Georgia

No cooking or washing dishes was required for this alumnae chapter’s holiday celebration. Instead, members met at a local steakhouse for a wonderful girls’ night out. A delightful holiday ornament exchange added to the evening of sisterhood, laughs and love.

Golden Isles

Georgia

Chapter members decorated a Barbiethemed Christmas tree for Hope 1312 Collective’s Festival of Trees. Hope 1312 Collective is a local non-profit organization that serves children in the welfare and foster system. The ZTA tree included many crown ornaments and was auctioned at this annual fundraiser.

[4] Macon

Georgia

Many chapters have enlightening book club events, but rarely do they hear directly from the author. This chapter had the privilege to chat about “The Wisdom of Winter” with author Jackie K.

Cooper. Mr. Cooper lives in Perry, Georgia and is also a film critic and book reviewer. His books are published by Mercer University Press in Macon.

Southern Atlanta West Georgia

Chapter members gathered at a sister’s home for a light supper, socializing and a watercolor painting class led by the host. Members took their original works of art depicting a winter wonderland to a local copy store to create holiday cards. With sisters from five collegiate chapters, each individual masterpiece symbolized the uniqueness of the chapter.

Chicago Northwest Suburban Illinois

At a creative and service-oriented event, a chapter member taught sisters how to use rubber stamps to make holiday cards. They included the holiday cards in 60 goody bags with cards, pens, wash cloths, socks and toiletries. The bags were donated to a ministry for unhoused persons and an adopt-a-senior project.

[5] North Shore Illinois

To kick off 2024, members braved the wicked cold outside and had a lovely potluck brunch at a member’s home. The delicious food, lively conversation, hearty laughter, addition of two new members and sunshine outside made up for the deep freeze of Chicago-area winter.

Lafayette Indiana

Chapter members and collegians from Alpha Theta Chapter (Purdue University) participated in a virtual “What’s in Your Room’’ event, similar to “What’s in Your Purse.” Sisters were asked to find various things in their room, like favorite books, strawberry-themed items and/ or symbols of their careers. Everyone shared online why the items were important to them.

[6] Frederick Maryland

These sisters meet monthly for a dinner event they call “Sup on the Sixth.” During the holiday season, they also brought toys to donate to Toys for Tots. The chapter enjoys the monthly time to catch up with each other as well as serving the community.

Ann Arbor Michigan

Eighteen alumnae participated in a career panel hosted by Alpha Gamma Chapter (University of Michigan). The event featured a wide range of fields, ages and viewpoints, which made for lively conversation and discussion of ZTA membership after college. The collegians asked great questions, like “was your career path linear?” and “how did Zeta help your career?”

Greater Grand Rapids

Michigan

This chapter loves to give to others, especially during the holiday season. For three years, the chapter has purchased gifts for a family in need through a local charitable organization. Members get together to wrap the presents and decorate cookies for collegians of Zeta Omega Chapter (Ferris State University) to wish them luck on exams.

Greater Oxford

Mississippi

This chapter combined two fun winter celebrations into one event. They hosted a “Souper Bowl” party to feast on a selection of homemade soups. They topped that off with a Mardi Gras tradition, King Cake, for dessert.

Northeast Mississippi

The chapter funded a ZTA Foundation scholarship by assembling and selling exam bags to the parents of Gamma Zeta (Mississippi State University) collegians. The bags, stuffed with snacks and study aids, were delivered in time for final exams. The project allows parents to bring love to stressful times while helping to fund a scholarship.

Research Triangle

North Carolina

Dog and cat lovers unite in this chapter’s service programming. They provide volunteer and financial support to Paws for Life NC, an all-volunteer organization whose mission is to save or improve the lives of homeless cats and dogs through foster-based rescue operations.

[7] Wilmington

North Carolina

Sisterhood around a table full of delicious food always provides a memorable experience. The sister serving as hostess provided ham and turkey, while other members brought side dishes or desserts to a scrumptious Friendsgiving event. The food was fantastic, but the conversation with friends was even better.

Albuquerque

New Mexico

This alumnae chapter hosts an annual mother-daughter brunch for members of nearby collegiate chapters. This morning of sisterhood and food is an opportunity to strengthen the collegiate chapters by showing parents why ZTA membership is a great decision. It also demonstrates to collegians that ZTA is sisterhood that lasts a lifetime.

Cincinnati Crown Ohio

This chapter made the holidays much happier for residents of local MariElders Senior Activity Center. Members purchased requested items through an Amazon wish list provided by the community. A group of sisters then organized the donations into 24 holiday gift bags and made the merry delivery.

[8] Lancaster

Pennsylvania

Every chapter member looks forward to the annual holiday brunch all year. Each sister brings a dish to share, and the hostess makes her special hot chocolate recipe. The event also includes a purse raffle fundraiser, a gift-exchange game and a gift collection for Toys for Tots.

[9] Charleston

South Carolina

This chapter joined forces with the local chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated to gather formal wear donations for the local Cinderella Project, which collects dresses and distributes them to local high school students in need for prom. The two chapters also shared presentations on their organization’s history while serving their community.

Coastal Islands of South Carolina

Sisters kicked off the new year with a “pantry clean out” and brought items to donate to a food bank in Bluffton. This was a great way to combine sisterhood and service and was a huge success. In addition to spending time with sisters, chapter members felt good about giving back to the community.

Grand Strand

South Carolina

This chapter gathered to “blast off” the New Year with a fantastic night of bowling and sisterhood. The event was filled with strikes and spares, pins and wins, plus ZTA fun and friendship.

Knoxville

Tennessee

Sisters, family members and some furry friends gathered for a beautiful autumn walk at Knoxville’s Ijams Nature Park. The day was filled with laughing and catching up with each other while enjoying the lovely woodlands, quarry and changing fall leaves.

Murfreesboro

Tennessee

Friendsgiving, a chapter favorite, brought sisters together to share their favorite holiday recipes and catch up on everyone’s busy lives. Each guest brought food to share, and everyone enjoyed the lively conversation and time together before the hectic holidays.

Central Texas

To celebrate the end of a successful and activity-packed fall season, the chapter went on a unique “field trip.” Their adventure was a visit to see ICE at the Gaylord Texan. This exhibit is a step into a wonderland carved out of 2 million pounds of colorful ice by expert artisans.

[10] Collin Country

Texas

These sisters thoroughly enjoyed their November event, “Culinary World Tour.” Sisters showcased a brief demonstration of an international recipe. Afterward, everyone had the opportunity to savor the prepared dish. The event was a huge hit, with members expressing their delight in sharing and enjoying scrumptious food with fellow sisters.

[11] Cypress

Texas

Several sisters got to work assembling 84 study baskets for Theta Gamma Chapter (Texas A&M University). The chapter hosts a fundraiser to sell and make study baskets for a Texas collegiate chapter every semester. The baskets are filled with snacks, school supplies, skin care items, candy and even some ZTA swag.

Dallas

Texas

Alumnae kicked off the holidays at a Christmas Tea co-chaired by a member. Sisters were treated to finger

sandwiches, scones and pastries. Following the tea, members enjoyed shopping at the holiday market. Members love to reconnect with friends and get to know new people at this event.

[12] San Antonio

Texas

Sisters showed off their college team colors and battled for the crown at the chapter’s first tailgate and chili cookoff competition. The event, filled with competitive games and delicious chili, brought sisters together to make new ZTA memories.

Fredericksburg

Virginia

Sisters and family members reconnected at a local microbrewery in January to participate in the restaurant’s trivia night. Although none of the trivia questions involved ZTA Fraternity Education questions, everyone enjoyed a great evening of sisterhood mixed with a little competition.

Tri-Cities Virginia

The chapter joined the Richmond Alumnae Chapter for an evening of bowling at Uptown Bowling in Midlothian. Although there were a few gutter balls, comradery ran high, and the chapters are certain that the pros will be scouting them for future bowling events.

[1] Statesboro, GA alumnae enjoyed a recreation of The Mystifying Picture and hearing 90 new members from Zeta Xi Chapter (Georgia Southern University) recite The Creed as part of the 125th celebration.

[2] Iota Theta Chapter (Georgia Institute of Technology) knew the best way to recognize ZTA’s 125th Founders’ Day was together!

[3] North Shore, IL alumnae gathered at a sister’s home to hear the Founders’ Day Proclamation, participate in the service and enjoy delicious strawberry cake.

[4] Steel City, PA’s annual “Founders’ and Faves” event had sisters learning and laughing about the significance of their favorite picks before celebrating 125 years of ZTA.

[5] Before Youngstown, OH sisters caught up with an ice breaker and performed the Founders’ Day Service, everyone also downloaded the special 125th phone background!

[6] Sisters from Delta Nu Chapter (The University of New Orleans) enjoyed celebrating 125 years of ZTA sisterhood together.

[7] Sisters from both Northern Maryland and Baltimore City celebrated the 125th Founders’ Day with a boat cruise around Baltimore Harbor.

[8] Two parties are better than one! Northwest Arkansas alumnae and Epsilon Chapter (University of Arkansas) collegians celebrated Epsilon turning 120 and ZTA turning 125.

[9] Sisters from Inland/Pomona, CA celebrated ZTA’s 125th Founders’ Day with tea at The Old Magnolia Tea Room.

[10] Zeta Chapter (The University of Tennessee, Knoxville) were joined by local alumnae for a formal brunch to celebrate the 125th year of ZTA.

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.

Member, 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.

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