Themis—Summer 2020 by Zeta Tau Alpha

From Where I Sit If someone had told me when I first became National President what the spring and summer of 2020 would hold, I’m not sure I would have believed them. The enormity of the COVID-19 pandemic would have been incomprehensible until it came to fruition, and the breakneck speed at which we received new information about the virus was previously unimaginable. Within a single week, all 173 campuses with ZTA chapters shut down in-person learning, and restrictions across the country on nonessential travel caused an immediate drop in air travel as well as the cancellation of many summer plans, including our traditional, in-person Convention. As the President of the National Panhellenic Conference Inter/ National Presidents over the last year, I saw the drastic effects the immensity and speed of COVID-19 had on how the 26 NPC organizations reach the common goal of sisterhood. While the fundamentals of this rotating role did not change, our conversations evolved rapidly. Earlier in the year, we discussed topics that now seem like luxuries—schedules, programming and campus trends; in the spring, we had to figure out how to address the most basic operational necessities for the coming year, like housing capacity, hand sanitizer and signage encouraging social distancing.

As colleges wrapped up their semesters and it seemed like we might have reached the so-called “new normal,” George Floyd’s death at the end of May outraged an already unsettled nation. His death and other tragic losses spurred Zetas across the country to take action, attending protests, raising funds for equality, spreading awareness of injustice through social platforms and committing to learning more about privilege and subconscious biases. As I begin my second biennium as National President, it’s clear the period of change our world is experiencing is far from over. Change and its close companion uncertainty can make the choices we face more complex and overwhelming at first glance. The role of National President is to help guide and direct the national organization and to continue to move the organization forward; each member takes on the role of making choices that represent ZTA well. Our sisterhood depends on the choices we make as an organization and individuals. In order to sustain it, we must take a proactive role to incite positive change at every available opportunity and adapt to circumstances beyond our control as best we can. Perhaps most importantly, we must choose Love. In order to fulfill “devotion to the Right, the Good, and the True”

we must not only entertain ideas of Love in thought, but also act on them. Love means wearing a mask. It means making space for and having tough conversations. It means sending a “thinking of you” card or text to a sister in need of emotional, physical or mental support, and it means Black lives matter. Despite all the uncertainty in this age of change, I believe in the strength of Zeta Tau Alpha. Our Founders faced difficult circumstances as they boldly chose to form our sisterhood in secret and again during the 1918 pandemic, World Wars I and II, and the Great Depression. Each time, their leadership and the bond between members strengthened our organization to preserve it for future generations. Past National President Martha C. Edens understood that our Fraternity could not remain a reflection of outdated values when she fought to change our Membership Selection Policy in 1972. With the Founders’ vision and wisdom of the forward-thinking leaders throughout ZTA’s history to draw on, the courage of today’s leaders and members will push ZTA to new heights. I consider it both an honor and a privilege to lead this incredible network of women, and I look forward to working with National Council to meet what comes in the next biennium.

ALICIA PATTEN WILLIAMS National President

SUMMER 2020

Contents

THINGS WE ZETA LOVE

ZTA FOUNDATION NEWS

FRATERNITY HOUSING CORPORATION NEWS

ARCHIVES

ON THE COVER:

The Lambda Eta Chapter (Virginia Commonwealth University) Executive Committee shares a message of sisterhood through a virtual meeting platform, a symbol iconic of the COVID-19 pandemic.

ALUMNAE CHAPTER NEWS

COLLEGIATE CHAPTER NEWS

page 20

POINTS OF PRIDE

ZTA stands against racism Learn more about ZTA’s initiatives to create an inclusive and equitable experience as well as answers to common questions.

Sisterhood is essential Take a look into sisters’ firsthand experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through all the social distancing and Zoom meetings, one fact is clear: Sisterhood is essential.

SPRING 2020 CORRECTIONS On page 3, the officer titles for former Province President Joni Fox Raybuck and former District President Karen Sanctorum Foster were switched in the memorial tribute to Carolyn Percy Hunderup. On page 15, Vicki Decker Griffith should have been listed as ZTA’s former NFL liaison.

THEMIS VOLUME 118 NUMBER 4 SUMMER 2020 1036 S. Rangeline Road Carmel, IN 46032 (317) 872–0540 zetataualpha@zetataualpha.org STAFF Editor Ensley Caldwell, Omicron Graphic Designer Kahlie Cannon Senior Director of Communication Ashley Sherman Contributors Christy Marx Barber, Alpha Psi Susan L. Beard, Delta Psi Patti Cords Levitte, Beta Phi Learn more about the contributing writers on the ZTA website at: bit.ly/Themis-writers

NATIONAL COUNCIL National President Alicia Patten Williams, Theta Psi Vice President Collegiate I Jess Adams Meyers, Eta Beta Vice President Collegiate II Laura Moak Redman, Delta Lambda 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

#WeAreZTA FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA @ztafraternity |

Lambda Alpha Chapter @zta_shu

Delta Delta Chapter @zta_bwu

Secretary-Treasurer Shannon Ferguson, Alpha Psi National Panhellenic Conference Delegate Katie Peoples Zamulinsky, Theta Xi Extension Director Raechel Bennett Biggs, Delta Gamma

@zta_shu missing our sisters a little extra today, which would’ve been our formal. we can’t wait to come back better and stronger #WEareZTA #ZTAstrong #ZTAlove

ZTA FRATERNITY HOUSING CORPORATION President Dinah Jackson Laughery, Beta Gamma Vice President Housing Area I Natalie Yingling Lisko, Delta Omega

@zta_bwu Only 5 more days until Recruitment Signups go live!! #WEareZTA #zetataualpha #ZTAisHOME #zta

Jersey Shore ZTA @jerseyshoreZTA Congratulations @ZTAstockton class of 2020 and all ZTA seniors near and far. Wishing you all the best in the next chapter of your life. Welcome to the ZTA alumnae world!

Vice President Housing Area II Julie Ward Moxley, Theta Sigma Vice President Housing Area III Marnie Marlar Frazier, Eta Omega

Delta Zeta Chapter @shsuzeta

#not4years4life #classof2020 #WeAreZTA #ZTAalumnae

Vice President Construction Leah Fields Ozment, Nu Vice President Design Julia Marthaler Hill, Eta Rho Vice President Operations Casey Guimbellot Pash, Iota Chi Secretary-Treasurer Stephanie Arnette Powell, Gamma Pi Directors Alicia Patten Williams, Theta Psi Carolyn Hof Carpenter, Theta Tau Shannon Ferguson, Alpha Psi

@shsuzeta STRAWBERRY CRUSH SATURDAY!!! TO: PAIGE “Paige and I met through Zeta. Within a matter of weeks it was an undeniable friendship. Months in she is now my best friend and I couldn’t be more grateful...”#shsuzeta #WEareZTA #ZLAM #shsu24

ZTA FOUNDATION President Carolyn Hof Carpenter, Theta Tau Vice President of Alumnae Development Cynthia Byars Courtney, Gamma Tau Vice President of Collegiate Development Marlene Dunbar Conrad, Eta Iota Vice President of Philanthropy Sherry Server Tilley, Zeta Alpha Vice President of Scholarship Catherine G. Slaughter, Alpha Eta Secretary-Treasurer Kay Dill Kreutzer, Eta Rho Directors Nora Nell Hardy Jackson, Beta Gamma Becky Hainsworth Kirwan, Gamma Beta Alicia Patten Williams, Theta Psi Shannon Ferguson, Alpha Psi Dinah Jackson Laughery, Beta Gamma Stephanie Arnette Powell, Gamma Pi

A Zeta True By Dakota West

Alpha Mu (Washburn University) Had I known my time as a collegiate member of ZTA would end so quickly, I would have enjoyed the little moments—my last formal, socials with fellow fraternity/ sorority peers, and sleepovers in the chapter room of our ZTA house—a lot more. With all of the emotions I felt losing my last chances to make memories in college, I will forever be thankful for those I made, for the people who crossed my path because of ZTA and for the endless opportunities this organization gave me. I’ll miss the beautiful campus, but more than that, I’ll miss my sisters and the place I called “home” the last several years.

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ZTA STANDS AGAINST RACISM By Christy Marx Barber, Staff Writer

In 1928, when Zeta Tau Alpha celebrated its 30th anniversary, the Convention body approved The Creed of Zeta Tau Alpha. The words spoke boldly and clearly of the universal values the Fraternity would uphold: “to think in terms of all mankind,” “to be true to ourselves, and to those within and without our circle,” “to look for the good in everyone,” and “devotion to the Right, the Good, and the True.” In this challenging year, those words have compelled ZTA and members to speak out. As the nation saw Ahmaud Arbery gunned down while jogging in Brunswick, Georgia, read about Breonna Taylor being shot by police in her Louisville, Kentucky, apartment, and watched George Floyd suffer for eight minutes and 46 seconds in Minneapolis, Minnesota, National Council believed strongly that ZTA could not and should not remain silent. On social media on May 29 and in an email to all members on June 11, ZTA said that to live up to The Creed, “We stand against racism, bigotry and violence. We promote and celebrate diversity, inclusion and acceptance. While ZTA sisters represent many backgrounds, races and cultures today, we acknowledge that our history hasn’t always been inclusive and that our membership is predominantly white.” To provide context to that history, National President Alicia Patten Williams, ZTA Foundation President Carolyn Hof Carpenter and ZTA Fraternity Housing Corporation President Dinah Jackson Laughery recapped the history of change to ZTA’s Membership Selection Policy in the State of the Fraternity address, streamed online on June 24. 4

| Themis Summer 2020 | Fraternity News

After the violent and turbulent summer of 1968, campuses across the country experienced protests centered around civil rights. Universities and students questioned whether fraternities and sororities should remain on campus. Convention 1968 called for a committee to review ZTA’s exclusionary Membership Selection Policy; one was appointed in 1969. At that time, the policy stated ZTA membership was open to women “of congenial backgrounds.” ZTA historical documents refer to this as the “unwritten rule” that chapters could only pledge Caucasian Christian women. Three years later, at Convention 1972, the Policy Review Committee recommended those words be eliminated. In her charge to the delegates, thenNational President Martha C. Edens said, “This is not a time for selfish interests, but it is a time to consider what is best for Zeta Tau Alpha in its entirety. This is a time for courage, for mutual understanding and wisdom.” The Convention body voted to delete those three words from the Membership Selection Policy to be more inclusive. “Now, here we are again, in a time for courage, for mutual understanding and wisdom,” Mrs. Williams said in the 2020 State of the Fraternity address. “Black lives matter to us, and we know our organization still has a lot of work to do. We want you, our sisters, to know we are committed to doing that work. Now is the time to move beyond words and take action.” In the 1960s and 1970s, members communicated with typewritten letters sent by mail. Long distance phone calling was expensive and used sparingly. National Council

typically met two to three times a year, compared to today’s as-needed conference calls. Taking action took time. Today’s connectivity makes decision-making more nimble, and National Officers can respond more quickly to member concerns. As a result of member and chapter requests and after discussion between the boards of all three ZTA entities during a combined meeting in 2017, National Council voted to update the existing anti-discrimination language in the Membership Selection Policy. It now reads, “ZTA ... has chosen to adopt membership selection policies that do not discriminate based on race, creed, ethnicity, religion, national origin, sexual orientation or disability. Zeta Tau Alpha membership is open to individuals who consistently live and self-identify as women.” In 2018, National Council created an Inclusion Committee and Philosophy. In 2019, ZTA added the Inclusion Chairman position to Program Council and now requires collegiate chapters to fill it. ZTA is one year into a three-year diversity and inclusion plan; in response to the racism and injustice witnessed in 2020, ZTA: • Communicated openly to members via social media and email • Provided a form on its website to report discrimination • Created social media posts for chapters to share • Trained collegiate Vice President I/Coordinators of Committees, Inclusion Chairmen and LCs on creating inclusive environments • Published a “Be an Ally” blog resource, written by Province President Suzanna Johnson

In her blog post, Suzanna offered her perspective as one of the first Black members to serve as a ZTA National Officer. “Historically, like many other predominantly white organizations, our sisterhood and organization did not welcome Black women and other women of color when it was founded. But, our sisterhood and organization have changed since 1898. I’m proud of the steps, however small, because but for those steps, I wouldn’t be a member. “It goes without saying that all lives matter, but right now, in this time, our Black sisters need the floor and the support. Racial injustice and police brutality, which stem from a history riddled with systemic, structural, institutional and individual racism and white supremacy, plague this country. I recognize that for many, this topic and these conversations are difficult, but because our organization desires to continue to ‘enrich and ennoble our lives,’ we must share these words.” The response from ZTA membership has been vigorous and varied this summer and included a number of petitions calling for additional efforts to end racism that circulated on social media. “We appreciate our membership’s passion and have vowed to be partners in change,” said Mrs. Williams. “We are committed to partnering with the entire fraternity/sorority life

community to make change happen, and we will continue to learn as we move forward.” In the spirit of ZTA’s patron goddess, Themis, Zeta Tau Alpha will strive to seek fairness and justice for all and to see the world impartially and through a lens of inclusivity. Following are answers to a few common questions ZTA has received. Q: Can ZTA or the ZTA Foundation donate funds to civil rights organizations? A: The Fraternity cannot disperse funds paid by members for any purpose other than what those funds were allocated for in the approved budget at the time. The ZTA Foundation must allocate its donations according to donor requests and for purposes consistent with the Foundation’s articles of incorporation, corporate bylaws, and its application for exempt status filed with the United States IRS. Q: Where can I find civil rights organizations to donate to personally? A: Check out Suzanna’s blog post at bit.ly/ZTA_BeAnAlly to find more resources. Chapters can also raise funds for civil rights organizations. Q: Where can I report racial inequality/derogatory behavior of a member or chapter or submit an idea for the Inclusion Committee?

A: Anyone can use the form at zetataualpha.org/about/inclusion to report an incident or behavior. Collegians can and should also reach out to advisors and Collegiate National Officers. Ideas and suggestions may also be shared with the Inclusion Committee via that same form. Q: Where can I find updates on steps ZTA is taking to promote diversity, inclusion and equity? A: For up-to-date news, check the inclusion page on ZTA’s website and social media platforms. Also see the story about inclusion in the spring issue of Themis. Q: What are the responsibilities of the collegiate Inclusion Chairman? A: With the assistance of ZTA and campus resources, she educates the chapter on topics surrounding diversity, inclusion and equity and ensures the chapter creates a sense of belonging for all members. Q: What diversity training will collegiate chapters receive? A: In December 2019, ZTA started working with experts to create six new My Sister, My Responsibility®: Seeking Understanding workshops. The new workshops collegiate chapters must facilitate this coming year are: • • • • • •

Personal and Social Identity In My Sister’s Shoes Genuine Conversations Microaggressions Cultural Appropriation Unpacking Power and Privilege

A LEADER WHO PUTS HER PEOPLE FIRST By Christy Marx Barber, Staff Writer

More than 30 years after joining Zeta Tau Alpha, 2020 Outstanding Alumna Award recipient Leslie Stufft Knight credits her collegiate experience with helping her learn to lead by caring for “her people” first. Now a colonel and family medicine physician in the United States Air Force, Dr. Knight exemplifies the Air Force values of integrity first, service before self, and excellence as well as the ZTA Creed’s call to “have the welfare and harmony of the Fraternity at heart.” In 1986, as a college freshman at Salisbury University, Leslie was prepared to study hard and avoid sorority life. She hadn’t counted on meeting several outgoing and smart members of Theta Delta Chapter in her dormitory. Finding ZTA to be “the perfect mix of fun and academics,” she pledged the following spring, was initiated and served her chapter as

Director of Social Events, Membership Chairman, Treasurer and President. As a chapter Treasurer and President, she felt more responsible for her sisters. “It wasn’t all about me anymore; I had people to take care of,” she said. “I had to face ethical questions about things like hazing. I was in situations where I had to separate my personal feelings about my friends from what I knew had to be done.” After earning her bachelor of science degree in biology in 1990, she entered the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Bethesda, Maryland, with a commission as a Second Lieutenant in the Air Force. She received her doctor of medicine in 1994 and completed her residency in family medicine at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland in 1997. Her career has included increasingly higher leadership positions in military medical service as well as experience teaching as an adjunct instructor at a medical school, stations in England and Japan, and deployments to Kuwait and Afghanistan.

In 2010, she served as commander of the 455th Expeditionary Medical Operations Squadron at Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan. She recalls a time when the base was under attack and all three orthopedic surgeons were in one room. Again, she put her people first. She asked, “What can I do? Can I free one of you guys up?” Her knowledge and rapport with the other doctors allowed her to step in to clean a wound so another doctor could attend to a more urgent surgery. Fast-forward to 2020, when the emergence of COVID-19 challenged both military and civilian medical professionals. As Deputy Command Surgeon of the Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC), Dr. Knight assisted the Command Surgeon in giving recommendations to the four-star general in charge of AFMC as he made decisions for the command’s seven medical treatment facilities and two aid stations across the country. Dr. Knight, stationed at AFMC headquarters at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio, said a major challenge was responding to questions from headquarters and the facilities. As the pandemic grew, so did the requests for statistics and answers and her concern for the people in her command. “We have to protect the people below us from getting redundant information and requests,” she said. “Everyone wants

(left) Leslie’s official Air Force photo; (right) Leslie, left, with her Big Sister, Michelle Marseilles; (page 7) Leslie in her flight surgeon uniform

a report about everything. We are vetting those requests to make sure our people can do the work of a military treatment facility and care for our population.” Dr. Knight said military medical personnel prepare all their careers for a challenge like COVID-19. “We train annually for a pandemic; we have a checklist and an infrastructure,” she said. “We used many of the things we had learned. But our training always ended after three to four days, and we don’t know when this will end. Real life teaches you there are things you can’t train for.” Away from the military base, Leslie’s “people” include her family. She married Jack, her high school sweetheart, the summer before her senior year in college while she was chapter President. They have two children: Heather, born while Leslie was in her medical residency program, and James, born seven months post-residency. An electrician, Jack has been busier than ever working at construction sites during the pandemic. However, their children, now young adults, were both unemployed for several months. Leslie’s last Air Force assignment is scheduled to be at Joint Base San Antonio, where she will do clinical work at Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgery Center before retiring. The military stop movement order in place from late March through late May pushed the move date to Texas back to mid-August. After this final tour of duty, Leslie’s plans are to spend more time gardening, running with her Golden Retriever, Sammie (as far as 26.2 miles!), maybe bicycling across the country and enjoying postmilitary life with her people. (Note: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and Dr. Knight and do not reflect the official opinion or policies of the Air Force Medical Service, the Air Force or the Department of Defense.) ZTA Foundation News | Themis Summer 2020

WHAT ROOMMATES SHARE: LETTERS, LAUGHTER AND AND A LIFETIME OF ZETA LOVE By Christy Marx Barber, Staff Writer

Having a roommate has traditionally been a rite of passage of collegiate life, and sharing a room with a sorority sister adds the unique aspect of a common bond. The ZTA Fraternity Housing Corporation strives to make ZTA housing a place where members make friends for life. Roommates share much more than just a living space. They share music, laughter, concerns, successes, tears, and of course, clothes. After college, roommates can become travel companions, bridesmaids, virtual counselors and special “aunts” to our children. Whether you lived together 30 years ago, 20 years ago, 10 years ago or last year, these stories will bring back great memories of your ZTA roommates.

LESLIE STEPHENS HAYES AND CHARLENE LONG DAVIS

initiated in 1991

Delta Eta Chapter, West Texas A&M University

From Charlene: The best part of sharing a room with Leslie was the late night talks we shared as we got to know one another. She set me up with my future husband and was my maid of honor. We have both lost biological sisters within the past 15 years, and we now refer to one another as “real” sisters. Our children refer to us as their aunts; we are that close. We both feel God put us together because He knew we would need one another for a lifetime. We enjoy making new memories as members of the Top of Texas Alumnae Chapter.

TRACY UNGER MARSHALL AND JENNIFER BIGLEY

initiated in 1994

Eta Epsilon Chapter, Mansfield University of Pennsylvania

From Tracy: We were friends before we pledged together in the fall of 1994. Jennifer knew how to make me laugh, and to this day, I know I can pick up the phone or text her and we go back to how we were in college. We were fun and silly, laughing and playing music on the tape deck. We were in the same major, so we had many classes together and didn’t have to go far for a study partner. We listened to one album every day while getting ready for class. She was and still is the best.

Themis Summer 2020 | Fraternity Housing Corporation News

PAIGE BUATT AND CHLOE CANTOR L’ESTRANGE

initiated in 2011

Gamma Zeta Chapter, Mississippi State University

From Paige: Chloe and I clicked when we met as freshmen. We were both on Executive Committee while we lived together on the end of “the long hall.” It was such a quiet place to study. Through EC, we learned so much more about each other and became even better friends. Chloe is so intelligent, funny and ambitious, and she’s an amazing friend. We loved living together; in fact, we lived together again for our last semester of college. Now, we keep in touch weekly and have been fortunate to travel for work and see each other at least once a year since graduation.

GRACE GRANADOS AND ASHLEY MATURANO

initiated in 2015 and 2014, respectively Theta Phi Chapter, California State University, Fullerton

From Grace: I’d never shared a room before, and it was nice to come home to some company. After the first day of our last semester, I realized I needed one more class to meet my major requirements. I completely panicked because my plate was already so full. I came up to our room terrified, bawling my eyes out, and Ashley let me lie in her bed and cry. No judgment, no questions, and when I was ready to talk about it, we did. Ashley always lets me be my most vulnerable self, much like my own sister. It’s been two years since leaving the Theta Phi house, but we still talk weekly.

GWYNETH OLIVER, JULIE FOREMAN, JESSICA WOODARD AND GINA SCAMPITILLA

initiated in 2017

Delta Theta Chapter, Ohio Northern University

From Julie: I never felt lonely and was never bored sharing a room with three friends; I always had someone to talk to when I needed to get something off my chest. We all constantly pushed each other to become better Zetas. Our room was the biggest one in our house, so people would come in and hang out with us. My fondest memories are of the slap-happy late nights spent laughing, the deep talks and the advice we shared. These women know me like the back of their hands, and I will forever be thankful we decided to room together.

MADI RAE DIPIETRO AND ELLIE HYLAND

initiated in 2019

Zeta Lambda Chapter, Rider University

From Madi Rae: Ellie and I are so different, yet that has made us grow so much closer. She wakes up and goes to bed so early, and I go to bed and wake up so late. Despite all of our differences, we truly are great friends and sisters. In this case, opposites definitely do attract. Ellie is always there for me when I need advice or someone to depend on. We have a clapper in our room so we can clap to turn the lights on and off together. It always makes us laugh.

Fraternity Housing Corporation News | Themis Summer 2020

NO CONVENTION THIS SUMMER? IT’S NOT THE FIRST TIME… By Patti Cords Levitte, Archivist, and Susan L. Beard, Archives Committee Chairman

After hugs and goodbyes at the end of Convention 2018, sisters left Orlando expecting to see each other again in Atlanta two years later. No one could have imagined then the disruption that would prevent the future gathering, but ZTA has been in this situation before. This year marks the fifth time ZTA has changed Convention plans due to extenuating circumstances. WORLD WAR I In 1917, ZTA had 17 active collegiate chapters and 13 active alumnae chapters. Convention was the only time most Zetas were able to meet sisters from other universities in person due to the geographic distance between chapters. The United States’ decision to enter World War I that April made Convention 1918 in Asheville, North Carolina, questionable. Grand President Dr. May Agness Hopkins wrote the voting chapters to assess if they supported holding Convention during wartime or if a mail vote on business matters would suffice. It was a tedious process, but mail was the only practical way of gathering all members’ opinions; long-distance phone calls were in their infancy, and telegrams were prohibitively expensive.

The majority voted to delay Convention until 1919, which turned out to be a wise decision, as the ongoing war imposed severe limits on travel and events in 1918. The country was also dealing with the influenza pandemic of 1918-1919. The Spanish flu was responsible for more deaths worldwide than WW I, including the death of Founder Maud Jones Horner, who passed away in 1920 from complications of the flu. THE GREAT DEPRESSION Conventions resumed as scheduled until 1932 at the height of the Great Depression, when ZTA had to keep spending to an absolute minimum. Changes to the Constitution and Bylaws in the 1918 mail vote gave the Grand President the authority to suspend Convention with the agreement of Grand Chapter, the early name for National Council. Grand President Bertha Cruse Gardner announced the decision to defer Convention 1932 in Pasadena, California, to 1933, which turned into a delegate-only, three-day meeting in Excelsior Springs, Missouri, due to nationwide bank closures and transportation shutdowns. It was an inexpensive, central location for most delegates, and they only discussed essential business. There were no frills, but delegates passed important [1]

[1] ZTA’s $10,000 donation toward war bonds during World War II [2] Zetas at the dedication of the mobile blood donation unit ZTA purchased for the American Red Cross in 1944 [3] National Council and the Finance Committee in Chicago in 1944 [4] Grand President Gardner’s notice announcing Convention 1932 postponement [5] President Helper’s announcement of a potential 1944 Convention [6] The letter Grand President Hopkins mailed in 1918 to voting chapters 10 Themis Summer 2020 | Archives

legislation, including increasing scholarship funds and implementing co-organizers, Leadership Consultants who lived with one chapter during a school year. WORLD WAR II The rest of the 1930s saw a return to normal chapter operations, but, unbeknownst to ZTA, the 1941 Convention in Edgewater, Mississippi, would be the last large ZTA event until 1946. As World War II raged across Europe, National Council prepared once again to adjust to changing college enrollments and severe budget restrictions under the looming sense of inevitability that effects of the war would reach the United States. The potential Convention for 1943 at the Netherland Plaza Hotel in Cincinnati, Ohio, ultimately didn’t

[2]

[3] [4]

take place due to gas and food rationing and nationwide travel restrictions, but National Council still met in June of that year. President Louise Kettler Helper asked Zetas to focus instead on supporting war efforts in their local communities and urged alumnae to support collegiate chapter operations during wartime. The collegiate chapters’ Convention fees later helped purchase a mobile blood donation unit for the American Red Cross in Mrs. Helper’s memory, as she passed away just two months after the June National Council meeting. This unexpected tragedy led to Lucile Reece Roberts Grove assuming the presidency and Dr. May Agness Hopkins coming out of retirement to return to National Council as Panhellenic Delegate. WORLD WAR II (AGAIN) Ever hopeful, ZTA tentatively planned another three-day Convention for 1944, but war restrictions again made it impossible for delegates to travel. Instead, National Council held an extended meeting in Chicago in

June. During this meeting, it decided to purchase U.S. war bonds with money that would have gone to Convention expenses and sent instructions to collegians and alumnae for Province meetings to keep sisters connected until the country stabilized. When WW II officially ended in September 1945, National Council fast-tracked Convention plans for the following June. The first post-war Convention took place at the SpinkWawasee Hotel in Syracuse, Indiana. ZTA has held Convention every two years without interruption since then, for a total of 37 of the beloved biennial meetings since 1946. COVID-19 History shows that ZTA’s members and leaders adapt to challenges with

[5]

[6]

grace, and the response to COVID-19 proved no differently. The Fraternity’s decision to cancel the traditional, in-person gathering resulted in its firstever virtual Business Meeting to elect National Council and gave all members a chance to experience a sisterhood celebration. While the pandemic may have kept sisters from hugging one another this year, Zetas are resilient and will continue to learn to reach goals differently, cherish time spent together and remember the strength of sisterhood.

Archives | Themis Summer 2020

Alumnae cha pte r n ews Northwest Alabama Women brought snacks and food donations to a chapter meeting to pack backpacks for Project Munch, a food program in Colbert and Franklin counties that sends home backpacks full of non-perishable food items with children from food-insecure households in their school systems to have for weekends or breaks. The alumnae collectively packed 150 bags. Jonesboro Arkansas This chapter joined Zeta Omicron Chapter (Arkansas State University) for a wonderful “Be our Guest” tea party. Attendees enjoyed different types of chicken salad sandwiches, cookies and of course, iced tea. After teatime, they played ZTA bingo. It was a great opportunity for the alumnae and collegians to mingle and get to know each other. [1] Little Rock Arkansas In January, several members threw a baby shower for the chapter’s HistorianReporter. The alumnae enjoyed sisterhood and celebrating this new mom. When social distancing became necessary, a few members hosted a Zoom call to see each other virtually and catch up on what they’ve been doing since the March meeting. Northern Arizona Since these alumnae are spread out over a great distance and it’s difficult to travel even under normal circumstances, the chapter decided to have a “NoShow Lunch” fundraiser. Each member 12 Themis Summer 2020 | Alumnae Chapter News

received an invitation NOT to join sisters for a luncheon and asking for contributions equal to the amount of money they would spend on a nice lunch out. The chapter donated the money to the ZTA Foundation. Phoenix Arizona This chapter focused on family-oriented events this year. In December, alumnae held an event for members and their significant others at the Desert Botanical Gardens Luminaries Show. In February, chapter members and their families gathered at McDowell Sonoran Preserve for a one-hour hike followed by brunch at a local restaurant. In March, the Phoenix Alumnae Chapter attended an Arizona Diamondbacks spring training game. [2] East Bay California This chapter hosted a “Sip and Shop” event at the local Kendra Scott boutique. Sisters dropped by to enjoy light refreshments and shop together, all while benefiting the Zeta Tau Alpha Foundation. Kendra Scott donated 20% of each sale to the ZTA Foundation. North Orange County California Women of this chapter held their January meeting at the Foundation Room at the House of Blues in Anaheim, California. The theme of the evening was disco night. Members took a step back in time listening to 70s tunes and dancing to the beat. It was a super fun night celebrating sisterhood and friendship.

North Valley California In February, members met at a sister’s house, where they held a “Royal Tea and Trivia” event complete with pastries and fun hats. The host prepared different snacks, and everyone played trivia games about the Royal Family and ZTA. Members also brought travel size toiletries to donate to a local homeless shelter for teens. Sacramento California The chapter’s “Zeta Zunco” event combined a fun game with a surprise baby shower. Sisters showered the mom-to-be with gifts and well wishes, demonstrating that Zeta truly Is Forever. Members also brought gently used purses to the meeting/baby shower and filled them with personal toiletry items and accessories for women at the local homeless shelter. [3] San Francisco and Marin Counties California Sisters sported their bells and other holiday baubles, sweaters and T-shirts to enjoy tea at an authentic tea house in San Francisco. In the spring, the chapter embraced the versatility of virtual meetings to bring sisters together over refreshments and laughs. Greater Hartford Connecticut This chapter changed its angle on its March Madness raffle fundraiser. Women who had paid to join and play a bracket used that same money to then buy a raffle ticket for the chance to

win donated baskets and items. The chapter did a live video drawing on Facebook so people could watch the raffle in real time. Bradenton Florida The Siesta Key Rum Factory is very involved with the community and keeping beaches safe, so the alumnae chapter decided to support the business by attending a tour. Members learned about the local culture and enjoyed spending time with one another in a new and creative way. Central Florida To encourage sisters to get to know each other on a more personal level, this chapter introduced Dine on the Nines events. Some sisters are only in town for a season, while others live there yearround, and these events gave everyone the opportunity to socialize with sisters in a relaxed environment. These dinners have been some of the chapter’s mostattended activities. Daytona Beach Florida A few chapter members participated in the annual ME STRONG 5K race in DeLand, Florida. ME STRONG is a registered 501(c)(3) charity with a mission to support people battling cancer. A couple of alumnae volunteer and represent ZTA proudly every year. [4] Miami Florida These alumnae had a great time recognizing the seniors of Gamma Alpha Chapter (University of Miami) this past December. Alumnae shared their personal ZTA stories and talked about their careers, and graduating seniors shared their hopes and dreams. The seniors loved the etched ZTA glass coffee mugs the alumnae chapter gifted them, and everyone enjoyed making special connections. Northwest Florida This chapter continued its tradition of hosting a holiday luncheon for alumnae

and collegians who live in the area. The luncheon included an ornament exchange, which was as popular as ever, and all attendees enjoyed getting into the holiday spirit. Athens Georgia Enjoying tasty treats is a favorite hobby for this chapter. At one of its foodie outings, the chef created charcuterie boards for members. Just after Valentine’s Day, members met again at Condor Chocolates, a local chocolatier serving coffee and confections grown in Ecuador, and the chapter returned to an old favorite restaurant for its March meeting.

Atlanta Alpha Georgia This year marks the 13th time these sisters contributed to Project Mail Call, packing 22 care packages that weighed a total of 297 pounds. The chapter’s care packages went to 11 units and supported 196 Marines, sailors and soldiers in Afghanistan, Iraq and Kuwait; members’ efforts enabled the organization to pass a milestone of sending a total of ten tons of merchandise to support U.S. troops.

Augusta Georgia In January, the chapter hosted a spring kickoff meet-and-greet to welcome new members and give sisters a chance to connect and get excited about the upcoming events. The sisters who attended enjoyed a great night laughing and getting to know each other.

DeKalb County Georgia This chapter’s meetings include all kinds of fun. In December, everyone brought their favorite Georgia-related item to participate in the white elephant exchange themed to match the planned Convention 2020 in Atlanta, Georgia. Sisters celebrated the new year during the “New Year, Same ZTA” event at Krog Street Market’s food hall. Everyone got to choose which restaurant to buy from and share a table.

4 Alumnae Chapter News | Themis Summer 2020

5 [5] Gainesville Georgia Alumnae partnered with Omicron Chapter (Brenau University) for a sisterhood before the campus closed. A member of the alumnae chapter is a yogi and offered to lead the yoga session. It was a wonderful time for self-reflection, exercise and furthering connections with the collegiate chapter. Golden Isles Georgia Women in this chapter focused on service. Members enjoyed a fun white elephant gift exchange and brought school supplies to donate to an underserved local school. Members and their families also assisted the Glynn County Marine Corp Reserve by sorting the hundreds of toys collected for Toys for Tots. Macon Georgia Sisters had a great time at the chapter’s third annual Mardi Gras party. They enjoyed the authentic, homemade gumbo a member’s husband prepared with love and of course, king cake. Later in the spring, women loved decorating clocks, door hangers, signs and more at a creative class. Savannah Georgia This chapter fully embraced Crown Connections. Three unique groups are Lads and Legacies, which provides opportunities for sisters who have kids to participate in family-friendly events 14 Themis Summer 2020 | Alumnae Chapter News

6 together; Dog Days and ZTAs, which focuses on dog-friendly events for sisters and their pups; and Lunch Bunch, which welcomes sisters to take a break from work each month and grab a bite to eat. Valdosta Georgia Alumnae got together with collegians for a wonderful night of bowling at Jac’s Bowling Lanes. Each lane had a mixture of alumnae and collegians to inspire long-term bonds and promote the sharing of wonderful stories and many laughs. It was a fabulous night to “let the good times roll.” [6] Boise Idaho In February, members assisted the Book it Forward! Idaho organization. Sisters cleaned and mended gently used books to donate to kids who come from low-income communities to strengthen their reading skills. The organization also donates to prisons and senior living facilities. Alumnae learned how to handle and organize the books so they could come back at any time to help clean new donations. [7] Chicago Northwest Suburban Illinois For this chapter’s service project at its February meeting, members donated coffee mugs and filled them with treats, such as gum, mints and toiletries. The mugs went to local nursing homes and a women’s and children’s shelter as a bright spot for recipients on Valentine’s Day.

7 St. Louis Metro East Illinois These Zeta ladies spent a Friday evening in March at Art 2 Go Studio in Columbia, Illinois, and had a fun-filled evening of painting and snacks. Each sister picked her preferred canvas and got in touch with her creative side. When their masterpieces were complete, sisters ended up with pretty pieces to display in their homes. Evansville Indiana These alumnae kicked off 2020 by putting their culinary skills to good use preparing meals for the Ronald McDonald House in Evansville for the families of children staying in the hospital. The feast included homemade lasagna, fruit salad and cookies. Fort Wayne Indiana Recently, this chapter enjoyed a book club-style meeting. In March, women discussed the book “Where the Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens, which centers around a young girl left to fend for herself in the marshes of North Carolina. Sisters enjoyed a great conversation and a fun, unique meeting. Franklin Indiana During the 2019-2020 year, this chapter decided to implement Crown Connections. To benefit the many sisters who live in northern Indianapolis, the chapter established a Crown Connection group to give them more opportunities

9 to meet. In February, sisters enjoyed coloring and each other’s company while sharing refreshments and coloring books during this relaxing and unique event at a member’s home. Lafayette Indiana This chapter’s most successful event in late winter was a candle crafting party at the Penn & Beech Candle Co. in downtown Indianapolis. Sisters welcomed four new members to the alumnae group while creating handpoured candles. Some members picked their candle scents based on ZTA themes, like strawberries and white violets. Other sisters themed their candles to represent their colleges. Des Moines Iowa In January, these alumnae had a sisterhood event at Smash Park, a local hangout where people can enjoy food and play pickle ball, lifesize Jenga, and other fun games. February’s meeting also centered around food, as sisters had a brunch event at a local diner. [8] Lexington Kentucky This past February, chapter members, family and friends visited the Sun Valley Horse Farm in Versailles, Kentucky. Attendees got to visit with seven foals and two mares who were ready to give birth. Everyone enjoyed the cold (but beautiful) day and fresh air.

Baton Rouge Louisiana This year, the chapter really strived to get more alumnae to attend Delta Kappa Chapter (Louisiana State University) events. In addition to promoting events on social media, alumnae established an “Alumnae Hour” to encourage alumnae to attend and alleviate the anxiety of not knowing anyone at the main event. Turnout was great, so the chapter plans to offer this gathering at future events. Annapolis Maryland In January, the chapter participated in a paint night. The model painting was called “Girl with the Turquoise Umbrella,” which was absolutely fitting, as the painting’s color scheme matches ZTA’s colors. The sisters had a great time discovering their inner artists. Frederick Maryland Although this chapter is a small one, it increased its membership by 23% this year and 220% over the 2018-2020 biennium. To reach this goal, members engaged sisters through increased communication, more Facebook activity and adding additional philanthropy opportunities to the calendar. Northern Maryland This chapter invited the other alumnae chapters in Maryland to participate in a virtual cookie decorating event. Women chatted over a Zoom call while they decorated a five-pointed-crown-shaped cookie. The event was so successful that

10 a repeat event with a strawberry-shaped cookie is in the works. [9] Silver Spring Maryland These alumnae celebrated December graduates with a senior potluck, and celebrating the May graduates was just as important to them. Each senior received a letter from an alumnae chapter member with a small gift, an uplifting message and an invitation to join the chapter. In place of the annual “Networking Night,” the AlumnaeCollegiate Relations Chairman created a virtual classroom in which collegiate women could get career advice. Bay State Massachusetts These sisters coordinated a virtual yoga night. A chapter member who is a yoga and High-Intensity Interval Training instructor hosted an all-levels Vinyasa flow via Instagram Live. The alumnae chapter also included Kappa Omicron Chapter (Merrimack College). The success of this event inspired the alumnae chapter to plan a HIIT session. [10]Greater Oxford Mississippi The chapter held its annual holiday party in December at a local antique shop owned by a member. While catching up with sisters, they addressed cards to the collegiate and alumnae chapters within the District. They also participated in a scarf exchange so members could stay cozy all winter long. Alumnae Chapter News | Themis Summer 2020

Springfield Missouri These sisters held a virtual Netflix watch party using the Google Chrome extension that allows people to chat online while watching a movie in real time. They voted to watch “Failure to Launch” and chatted while enjoying the movie. Members also had a virtual social hour on Zoom. They all got together with refreshments at home and got to catch up on each other’s lives. [11] St. Louis Missouri

Restaurants are a focal point for many chapter events, including the book club meeting about the book “Dear Mrs. Bird.” These sisters found that reading is even more enjoyable when they get to share it with sisters. The chapter’s February meetup involved gathering at local restaurants throughout the city for small sisterhood groups. It was a great opportunity for members to see sisters that live nearby. Jersey Shore New Jersey

Members attended the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer® of Pt. Pleasant Beach, New Jersey, Evening of Gratitude. This night honored sponsors, including the Jersey Shore, NJ Alumnae Chapter, for their commitment to the walk and the survivor tent. One of the special gifts the chapter received was a pink ribbon made out of individual paper butterflies signed by breast cancer survivors. [12] Albuquerque New Mexico Alumnae held a “Zisters, Be My Valentine” celebration at a member’s home. The popular event featured the host’s homemade, delicious creations as well as lovely floral displays interspersed throughout her home. After catching up, sisters participated in a game to learn more about each other, like what everyone’s favorite flowers and vacations are. Rochester New York

13 16 Themis Summer 2020 | Alumnae Chapter News

Chapter members went to the Ronald McDonald House of Rochester and

made a hot breakfast for families who were staying at the facilities while their children were in the hospital. They were able to get to know some of the families, who were very thankful for the hot breakfast during the emotionally difficult time. Charlotte North Carolina This chapter held a Zoom event where they discussed “Tiger King,” which was all the rage at the beginning of stay-at-home orders. For this event, sisters brought a snack, downloaded a “Tiger King” background and dressed like one of the characters. They had a blast and enjoyed the laughter and levity of the event. Cincinnati Crown Chapter Ohio This chapter had a fundraising event at Dream Dinners. Sisters chose three dinner recipes to prepare and store in the freezer until the day before they planned to cook them. Members took turns at stations set up for each recipe to portion out ingredients for their dinners. They had fun creating delicious meals together while also raising money for the ZTA Foundation. Cleveland-East Ohio This chapter got creative in the time of social distancing with a virtual showand-tell meeting featuring ZTA items. They shared everything from strawberry items to ZTA jewelry. The chapter also uses its Facebook page to showcase the places members have been, posting member-submitted photos in the form of a quiz about where they were taken. The chapter’s sport guru also posts one exercise a day for members to do. Dayton Ohio Sisters are so excited about the chapter’s increased social efforts through sisterhood connections, despite the difficulties of social distancing. The chapter paired up women each week as Sunshine Sisters to reach out and bring a little sunshine into each other’s lives in any way they could. Women also

participated in regular “Zister Zoom” hangouts over lunch on weekdays.

up after the holidays and share what the new year held for each woman so far.

[13] Oklahoma City

Greenwood South Carolina

This chapter held its first Zoom meeting in April. The ice breaker question got everyone to talk about their worst haircut, which made members laugh and gave them a sense of togetherness. The chapter even had sisters attend who normally cannot make meetings due to work, school or family obligations. Seeing everyone’s faces really lifted spirits. [14] Portland Oregon On Superbowl Sunday, these alumnae met up for a night of sisterhood and service. Sisters made over 11 pans of lasagna—including the pasta—from scratch for Kappa Mu Chapter (Linfield College) nursing students and families in need to enjoy. During the halftime show, sisters crafted a total of 150 Valentine’s Day cards to hand out at the local children’s hospital.

Recently, sisters banded together virtually in order to surprise children at a local shelter. In fewer than 12 hours after the request to sponsor a child, members signed up as sponsors for every child who lives at the shelter. All of the children received a gift card to their favorite restaurant. Sisters were delighted to hear of the smiles that appeared when the gifts were delivered. [16] Pee Dee South Carolina

Philadelphia Pennsylvania

Spartanburg South Carolina

In February, several sisters got together for the annual Galentine’s Day celebration. They held this delicious brunch at the Grand Lux Cafe in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, where sisters were able to reconnect and share exciting new updates about their lives.

Alumnae partnered with local collegiate chapters to raise money for the ZTA Foundation by hosting a babysitting night. Alumnae and spouses gathered for an outdoor couples’ campfire while the collegians babysat the alumnae’s children. Members enjoyed including spouses in the activity while raising money for a great cause and connecting with collegians.

Columbia South Carolina These sisters started a Lads and Legacies Crown Connection to connect moms within the chapter. The group meets every other month. At the February event, the group attended a marionette adaptation of “The Little Mermaid.” The kids loved it, and the moms had fun catching up before the show. [15] Grand Strand South Carolina Members gathered at the new Hook & Barrel restaurant in Myrtle Beach to celebrate Galentine’s Day with an evening of friendship and sisterhood. It was a wonderful way for sisters to catch

As a smaller alumnae chapter, members were very humbled to receive the Silver Tray Award, as well as recognitions for Major Donor Status, Excellence in Service/Community Outreach and Membership Achievement at Zeta Day. The chapter also felt honored to have been able to help make the event happen as a host chapter.

Martin Tennessee This chapter hosted its first Panhellenic sisterhood this spring with the alumnae sisters of Alpha Delta Pi Sorority. During the local university’s Greek Week festivities, women grabbed coffee with Panhellenic sisters to celebrate their ties to the local Martin community and fraternity/sorority life. Memphis Tennessee Although the in-person component of this chapter’s annual Think Pink®

16 Alumnae Chapter News | Themis Summer 2020

Luncheon was canceled, the leadership team took the opportunity to get creative, hosting a Facebook Live event to promote interest in the online auction bidding. It was the perfect platform for sharing survivor stories and introducing local artisans that donated one-of-a-kind items to the auction. [17] Bryan-College Station Texas In February, alumnae put together “Love, the greatest of all things” goody boxes for Theta Gamma Chapter (Texas A&M University). Each box included six assorted cake balls and a $5 gift card to a local coffee establishment. Parents bought the boxes for their daughters, and the money raised went to the ZTA Foundation and toward the BCS Ann Marsh Scholarship fund. Collin County Texas This chapter’s “Alum Chum” program pairs members with graduating seniors to help those women make the transition from college to alumnae life. Alumnae support includes small gifts and advice and culminates in a senior lunch and ceremony before graduation. Cypress Texas One of the chapter’s best events this year was the “Bras and Brunch” event. Zetas met at a local restaurant and brought new bras to donate to a women’s shelter. It was such a great time to socialize, and members were so excited to take the donations to the shelter afterward.

17 18 Themis Summer 2020 | Alumnae Chapter News

Dallas Area Night Texas This chapter made its February meeting financially savvy with a presentation and discussion hosted by a ZTA alumna who is a financial advisor. The group dived deep into the essentials of personal finances, focusing on savings, personal investments and a look toward retirement. The ladies left a few steps ahead in controlling their finances and setting up for a successful future. Dallas Association Texas This chapter participated in a very rewarding non-event fundraiser, “Enrich, Educate, Empower 2020.” Funds raised went directly to the Endowed Scholarship fund to help further a Zeta’s education and toward promoting ZTA’s philanthropy, breast cancer education and awareness. El Paso Texas These alumnae planned two Zoom events to help promote sisterhood within the chapter. During “ZTA Game Night,” women played ZTA trivia, including history questions about Gamma Gamma Chapter (The University of Texas at El Paso). The second Zoom meeting gave sisters the opportunity to share what they would like to see on the fall calendar. Ft. Bend Texas These sisters held a “Fake it, Make It, Bake It” fundraiser to raise money for

the ZTA Foundation. Everyone bought, made or baked items for a silent auction at a member’s home. The host provided dinner and a very delicious homemade butter cake with strawberries and cream on top. Women invited friends, and a total of 20 people attended. Hidalgo County Texas This chapter recently held its annual “Soup and Sisters” spring meeting. An accomplished artist, the host gifted each member with a mini painting after lunch. During the meeting, the chapter planned to collect luggage for foster children as its next service activity and a “Bubbles and Brunch” gathering. Houston West Texas The women of this chapter were able to get together in person twice before social distancing became necessary. In January, they held a soup night and celebrated the new year and some ZTA anniversaries. The hostess made different soups for everyone to try; they were perfect for a cold night. In February, sisters got together for a Galentine’s Day social hour. [18] Humble/Kingwood Texas In February, these sisters got together for a “Candy for Collegians” activity. Members put together large snack bins full of candy and had them delivered to Delta Zeta Chapter (Sam Houston State University) and Theta Eta Chapter (Stephen F. Austin University).

They wanted to let the collegians know that “sisterhood is sweet” as much as it is forever. [19] Lubbock Texas These women wanted to make Valentine’s Day a little brighter for the guests of The Hope Lodge of the American Cancer Society®, which provides a free home away from home for cancer patients and their caregivers. Alumnae gathered supplies and used their creative skills to make Valentine’s Day Cards while enjoying food and each other’s company. Midland Texas Sisters kicked off the year with a private Pilates date that a member set up for them. Though only one member had tried Pilates before, all the alumnae had a great time trying to learn something new. They all agreed it is way less intimidating to try new things in the company of sisters. Nasa-Brazoria County Texas These alumnae enjoy supporting fellow sisters, especially when it involves food. The ladies indulged in traditional southern breakfast fare with a twist at a local restaurant a chapter member owns. They enjoyed scrumptious French toast and omelets made with local eggs. Taking time to connect with sisters while enjoying excellent food was a relaxing way to end the week.

Charlottesville Virginia Several sisters joined a virtual social hour with snacks to catch up on work, birthdays, college memories and updates on Gamma Nu Chapter (University of Virginia). The group chatted nonstop for 90 minutes, and this event garnered the most engagement this year. [20] Loudoun County Virginia This past January, these alumnae held a board game night where sisters and their significant others gathered at the chapter President’s house. A night of fun and friendly competition was the perfect way to stay out of the cold weather and relax with sisters. Tidewater Virginia To celebrate the arrival of 2020, sisters hosted a kickoff event called “Cheers to the New Year” at a local restaurant. The chapter offered a special discount on dues for women who attended the event. Offering the discount helped the chapter achieve its goals of bringing more members to the event and increasing chapter membership. [21] Virginia Peninsula In early March, the chapter held a fundraiser for the ZTA Foundation by hosting a private shopping party at a local gift shop that boasts beautiful apparel, jewelry and home decor. This event gave sisters an opportunity to connect with one another and talk about

breast cancer education and awareness. When the novel coronavirus pandemic hit, the chapter hosted a Zoom meeting to write notes to other sisters, especially those who don’t use social media, to lift their spirits. Western Fairfax Virginia One of this chapter’s newest service projects is supporting The Crayon Initiative, an organization that saves crayons from being thrown into landfills, where they will never biodegrade. The organization recycles old crayons to form new crayons and distributes them to art programs at children’s hospitals across the country. [22] Seattle Washington To go with the theme of the book “When We Left Cuba,” the Seattle Bookwormz met at a Cuban coffee shop to eat brunch, which included dishes like Cuban toast with guava cream cheese, and discuss the book. The group also enjoyed hearing about a member’s recent experience in Cuba and relating it to the book. Washington, D.C. Alumnae held a sisterhood at a local plant shop where members created their own terrariums to take home as keepsakes. Sisters also won second place at a trivia night while they supported a chapter member who recently started hosting events around town.

22 Alumnae Chapter News | Themis Summer 2020

S TAY I N G S T E A D FA S T A N D S T R O N G I N T H E T I M E O F CO V I D - 19 | By the membership of Zeta Tau Alpha |

Beyond the global stage and ZTAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience with the pandemic as a national organization, each member had her own struggles, triumphs, joys and sorrows. This article gives insight to 18 of those stories. Through all the rushed goodbyes and adjustments to online learning, emails about what would come next, and the days we would have enjoyed formals, celebrated graduations and embraced at Convention, one reminder remained constant: Sisterhood is essential.

Feature | Themis Summer 2020 |

COVID-19 resulted in the cancellation of the lobby day on Capitol Hill and numerous Zeta Days.

22 | Themis Summer 2020 | Feature

THE ENVIRONMENT ON (THEN OFF) CAMPUS Kerry Mackenzie [1] Submitted by a sister on April 24, 2020, 9:40 a.m. Kerry Mackenzie created a COVID-19 Response Operational Committee to gather student input and develop legislation to address student needs. This was her first order of business as the newly elected speaker of the assembly for The University of Texas at Austin’s Student Government. “The assembly should be providing some sort of coalescent knowledge about COVID-19 so we can better assist and represent students to the administration regarding changes, adjustments and different services they need to offer to help students be successful,” Kerry said. This was not Kerry’s first time to spearhead legislation. Last year, as the ethics and oversight committee chair, Kerry authored a resolution to excuse students from class in order to vote on Election Day in an effort to increase student voter turnout. Kerry also co-sponsored a resolution to add the suicide prevention lifeline number to student IDs as a resource for students who may be in a suicidal crisis or emotional distress. Nolani Mann [2] May 27, 2020, 6:33 p.m. I “graduated” this semester from the honors college at University of Houston with a political science degree and minors in history and English. Even with everything, I ended on the dean’s list for the semester and am currently applying to law school. ZTA actually helped me a lot with scholarships, and I don’t know if I could have gotten this far without this Fraternity, the support of my advisors and my parents. Kayla Burruel [3] May 28, 2020, 4:13 p.m.

friends, family and fellow graduates and can say you did it. As a firstgeneration student, you really look forward to the day you get to say you were the first and you finished. But before all of that, you mostly look toward all of the “lasts” you are about to experience—the last lecture, lab, chapter meeting, sisterhood, social, night out with friends, etc. You go into your last semester knowing you have 15 weeks to soak it all up before it is time to move on. Not this year though—as someone who graduated on May 9, 2020, from Boise State, all of my “lasts” were taken right out of my hands on March 13, when Boise State announced it would move classes online for the rest of the semester due to COVID-19. I didn’t know if I should cry or scream out of anger because everything I had worked toward and been looking forward to celebrating was taken from me in what felt like seconds.

ZETA DAY 3

Elizabeth “Billie” Franklin Hoertz [4] Submitted by a sister on May 27, 2020, 7:38 p.m. Mrs. Billie was so excited to receive her 75-year charm and certificate at Kentucky Zeta Day on March 21. As a member of the Cardinalettes, she was in the charter class of the reactivation of ZTA at University of Louisville. She still lives in Louisville, just a few miles from this year’s Kentucky Zeta Day venue. Her husband, Charlie, was going to drive her. Two of her children were also going to attend. This photo would have been shared at Zeta Day. In her own words: After growing up somewhat isolated in downtown Louisville with my grandparents, ZTA brought me into an entirely new world, where I would meet many wonderful women who, in several cases, became lifelong friends.

As a soon to be graduating senior, you count down the days until you walk across that stage in front of your Feature | Themis Summer 2020 |

Susan Holmes Weigle [5] April 30, 2020, 10:01 p.m. It’s my daughter’s senior year. Plans were made and activities/events were scheduled through the end of the school year. Kelly had come home for spring break at the beginning of March, not knowing at the time that she would remain home for the rest of her last semester due to the COVID-19 outbreak. With it came cancellation upon cancellation because of the rapid spread of the virus and the many extensions of stay-at-home orders from the state. Greek Week was the first event to be canceled, and then a week after that, Pennsylvania/West Virginia Zeta Day 2020 had been canceled. Missing the senior recognition ceremony was as disappointing for her as it was for me. You see, I was in the same ZTA chapter (Iota Nu) on the same college campus (Susquehanna University) where she currently attends school, which is one of the collegiate chapters included in the Zeta Day that my alumnae chapter (Lancaster, PA) attends as well. I have been with my daughter on her entire Zeta Tau Alpha journey, beginning with participating in her Initiation Service four years ago. We have shared every Zeta Day since her 24 | Themis Summer 2020 | Feature

freshman year, and we were both looking forward to her last Zeta Day as a collegian. I’d say we were equally disappointed to miss this year’s Zeta Day because of how much ZTA means to each of us, although I’m sure, with good reason, she was actually more disappointed. But, when life hands you lemons, you make lemonade (strawberry, of course!). Having been to more than twenty Zeta Days myself, I was determined to give her as much of a Zeta Day experience as I could to try to make up for her missing out on those special memories made as a senior at Zeta Day. I gave her an invitation the night before so we could try to follow a similar schedule to what would have happened if Zeta Day had been held in person. On Saturday, March 28, we started our own individual Zeta Day with roll call (not as much fun with only two people who live in the same household, but still interesting!) and then watched National President Alicia Patten Williams’ Zeta Day 2020 greeting. We recited The Creed, read through the Reflection on the Fraternity (ending with singing “Hear Me Calling”), Sisterhood is Strong, and Zeta Is Forever. We absolutely loved the “ZTA Effect” topics and even found out some things we didn’t know about each other’s ZTA experiences. Then came the Senior

Recognition Ceremony…as well as her tears. We ended our mini Zeta Day 2020 with a tearful rendition of singing “Today and Forever” together. It was a very emotional but gratifying moment. To add to the whole experience of “attending” Zeta Day while quarantined, our mini version of Zeta Day ended just as the District President shared a virtual Zeta Day Alumnae Awards video online. That made the day feel a little bit more real, “seeing” another Zeta and feeling like we were there for the awards. It was an awesome day! Although it wasn’t the Zeta Day we had originally envisioned attending with all of our other sisters in Reading, Pennsylvania, it still turned out pretty great, and we’ll have this special memory to last a lifetime.

MOMS Kristen Pugh Weaver [6] May 22, 2020, 9:22 a.m. Like so many working moms, my world was thrown into a tailspin when schools closed, and I was suddenly working from home with my preschoolers (and my husband!). Learning to balance my full-time job, caring for and educating our 4- and 5-year-old daughters and trying to maintain some sense of normalcy has been a challenge, to say the least. We’re all learning and growing together to establish our “new normal.”

8 Kimberly Cartier Wong May 27, 2020, 6:34 p.m. I am a full-time graphic designer for Too Faced Cosmetics now juggling working from home and raising a toddler. The struggle has been too real! During the second week of the pandemic shutdown, my daughter developed pneumonia and did not qualify for a test, so we may never know if it was COVID-19 related. A few weeks after her recovery, our 6-yearold husky died from sudden liver failure, cause unknown. Despite all the ups and downs, we have become stronger as a family, and I’ve become a PRO multitasker. I’m holding onto the extra time I get to spend with my husband and daughter and cannot wait for our world to heal. Kristel Aranas [7] May 27, 2020, 7:30 p.m. My mother has been stuck in the Philippines for the past several months, and we’re trying to get her out. We’re from a huge family that gets together every weekend, so it’s been a major shift not seeing any of them for weeks, let alone my mother being gone. We hope to have her home soon, but with all the flights getting canceled, it’s been dicey. Update July 2, 2020, 8:51 p.m. My mother arrived two weeks ago, and we’ve finished the recommended quarantine period. We’re now focusing on improving our backyard garden. She said she wishes that she didn’t leave the Philippines under such bad circumstances but that as soon as she’s able, she’ll head back. Katie Cwenar Herting [8] May 28, 2020, 12:31 p.m. I’ve been working from home, caring for my two children who are 4 and almost 2 years old, and I started a community mask box to provide free fabric face masks to anyone who needs them. I’ve sewn over 1,200 masks so far.

In addition, I work for the Iowa Department of Public Health as the Ryan White Quality Coordinator. I help administer the Ryan White Part B Program, which supports Iowans living with HIV. This has been a unique experience for me since I have a Master of Public Health in epidemiology and I work in infectious disease. Now our program is doing everything it can to help support our immunosuppressed clients who are living with HIV as they are more susceptible to contracting COVID-19. Areta Hill Moseley [9] June 1, 2020, 9:55 a.m. In March, I found myself worried about the safety of my three children. I wasn’t worried about them getting exposed to COVID-19 at school or church, but at home. My husband is a pulmonary critical care doctor and was assigned to our regional COVID-19 task force. He would be the doctor saving lives and potentially being exposed to the virus. I was terrified he would bring the germs home and my children would get sick. There were weeks where my husband would come home, and he couldn’t hug or touch me or our children and was only allowed in one room of our home. Things were quite scary. Improvements in availability of PPE have helped, and our state wasn’t as impacted until recently. We’ve had the support of friends, family and my ZTA sisters keeping us positive and encouraging us during this time. I look forward to the time when masked FaceTime calls won’t be the norm for our family. Crystal Martinez Adams [10] May 27, 2020, 7:31 p.m. My husband and I both work for local governments. I had to shut down city hall, find ways to still communicate to our employees and residents, and create ways for our staff to continue to operate and provide services to vendors, businesses, and developers. I was also nine months pregnant when we shut down.

I delivered my son alone, by C-section and was sent home 24 hours later to avoid COVID-19 exposure. Frances Steckbauer Fuller May 28, 2020, 4:42 p.m. As a school social worker, I had to quickly transition to providing online services and mobilizing resources to ensure students were taken care of. We participated in a parade for the graduating seniors at my school. Since the shutdown, I was appointed as the McKinney Vento Liaison for my district and was also asked to lead the district’s equity council. My husband also just finished his bachelor’s degree. We have had a schedule to take turns working, schooling and parenting. It was hard, but I’m so thankful for all of the time I’ve had with my favorite girl and my husband.

TEACHING Katie Walker [11] May 24, 2020, 2:30 p.m. The 2019-2020 school year was my first year out of college and my first year teaching in a third grade classroom. On top of learning how to be a teacher in itself and how to balance the responsibilities and stress of being a first-year teacher, I’m balancing the COVID-19 responsibilities of teaching from a distance with my first-ever class. As an advisor for Iota Pi Chapter (University of Dayton), I’m waiting to hear about how to help them with the Initiation Service we have yet to do, and I missed out on a number of “firsts,” such as coaching for the high school in the district I teach in now and attended when I was in school.

ON THE FRONT LINES Rachelle Douglass [12] July 7, 2020, 11:07 a.m. When you are in medical school, you learn about the pandemics of the past, but you never really think you will ever be involved in one. These last few months have been some of the most challenging months of my career. Working in the emergency department, you are on the front lines and are usually prepared for anything, but this was something I don’t think anyone was prepared for. One day you’re working and seeing

patients without masks or gowns and interacting like normal, and the next, you are wearing two masks (an N95 covered by a surgical mask), goggles and gowns for almost every patient. We have PAPR machines to wear for extra protection when we are intubating patients or doing CPR. I didn’t eat or drink during my eighthour shifts because I didn’t want to take my masks or goggles off. At the end of my shifts, my face hurt from the PPE, and I had lines across my face from my goggles and masks. My work shoes stayed in a paper bag in my car; immediately when I got home, I would take a shower and put my scrubs directly in the wash. While New York City was getting overwhelmed with cases and deaths, California was the opposite. There were some shifts where I would only see two to four patients per shift, as everyone was scared to go into the ER. We had a tent outside where everyone had to be triaged before they could come into the ER, and if we were worried they potentially had COVID-19, they would be seen in the tent. People were scared to go to the ER. The sad part is that due to people being scared to go to the ER, they weren’t going when they should have for chest pain, heart attacks, strokes, heart failure, COPD, abdominal pains and other emergencies and had major complications. Despite seeing so few patients, every shift was exhausting!

I have had weekly Zoom meetings with my colleagues about the new treatments and complications as we learn something new every week. With the gradual reopening over Memorial Day weekend, we have noticed a major surge in California. We took the tent down, and more people are coming. It was as if the tent scared people. In the past week, I have seen at least two to three sick COVID-19 patients per shift, and we are much busier. I miss the days of seeing patients without the stress of COVID-19 and worrying about exposing myself. I miss seeing patients without masks and seeing them smile when they feel better. I do know that during this stressful and lonely time of social distancing, I have had some amazing ZTA sisters who have been there to help me through it all. Jourdan Ujlaki May 25, 2020, 3:21 p.m. As a pharmacist during the novel coronavirus pandemic, I have been impacted in ways I never thought I would. I’ve seen anxiety, worry, grief and uncertainty from my patients and their families, but I have experienced many of those things— and more—myself. So much is still unknown about this virus, and this pandemic has pushed me out of my comfort zone to be an even better leader, a more empathetic person and a supporter of all. One thing that has helped me get through this has been the messages of support, encouragement and those just checking in from my ZTA sisters. They’ve lifted me up and been there for me on the exceptionally rough days, and I appreciate them greatly. Sarah York Loschiavo Submitted by a sister on May 28, 2020, 1:41 p.m. Sarah is the APRN Director of Oncology Palliative/Supportive Care & Survivorship in the Neag

Comprehensive Cancer Center at UConn Health in Farmington, Connecticut. In addition to creating the palliative care COVID-19 team for the hospital, she sees new patients coming in to face cancer treatment alone; family members sitting in the car worrying and waiting for their loved ones to finish their treatments; patients terrified of contracting the virus; providers weighing the benefits of cancer treatments versus the risks of immunosuppression increasing chances of contracting COVID-19; and patients fighting more than one battle—cancer and COVID-19. Sarah selflessly gives her time, energy and passion to her patients every day but even more so now, putting herself at risk to provide them with the best care and remain beside them when their families and friends cannot. Kristi Hnyda Schmidt [13] May 20, 2020, 9:44 p.m. I am a critical care nurse practitioner who usually works on the cardiac surgery service line. I was deployed within our hospital to the ICUs to care for critically ill COVID-19 patients. We are one of the busiest hospitals (most COVID-19 patients) in Northern New Jersey, eight miles outside New York City. Our hospital needed to open 10 ICUs compared to the usual five. They even turned our cafeteria into a COVID-19 department holding 75 patients. As a critical care NP, I saw the many lives that COVID-19

claimed. During any given shift on just one of the ICUs, on more than one occasion, we would lose up to three patients within a 12-hour period. Hearing a code called over the hospital PA system multiple times a day was “the norm” during our peak COVID-19 times. Luckily, we are on the down slope, but for at least six weeks it was crazy busy. As of today, New Jersey has had over 150,000 confirmed COVID-19 cases and lost over 10,000 people to the virus. Rosemary Hawkins [14] Submitted by a sister on May 20, 2020, 3:02 p.m. Rosemary is a certified child life specialist at a hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. When the COVID-19 crisis began, her role in supporting pediatric patients in better understanding their hospital experience grew to include creating materials to prepare children for the drive-through testing experience. She mimes the COVID-19 testing process on a puppet to show children what to expect and shares that testing is important to helping them get better. Kathy Pope Reinhagen [15] June 4, 2020, 12:36 a.m. As an acute care speech pathologist, I am on the front line of the COVID-19 pandemic. I evaluate and treat all patients who are admitted with any

respiratory issues. March 2020 was the most challenging month of my 20year career. I was scared for myself, my family and my patients. No one, including me, knew what to expect. While experiencing new stressors at work, I was also trying to help my family adjust to a new normal, which included home schooling. My son is 8 years old and had a difficult time with the transition. Not only was his learning environment completely different, but he was also scared. We ended up having a question-andanswer session every night. He would ask me very valid questions about my work and the virus, and I did my best to alleviate his fears. As a District President and an advisor to a local collegiate chapter, I normally attended at least one ZTA event a week. When all of a sudden that came to a screeching halt, it added to my sense of feeling alone when I needed my ZTA sisters the most. Just as soon as I started feeling really sad, the cards, texts and phone calls started coming in. My ZTA sisters were there for me even when I could not see them in person. Yes, this has been such a challenging time, but I am going to look back on it with such positive feelings. My son, husband and I have found how to have a really good time without ever leaving home. And my ZTA sisters knew exactly what I needed at the exact moment I needed it. Feature | Themis Summer 2020 |

Collegiate cha pte r n ews [1] Alpha Longwood University To welcome and celebrate new members, this chapter held a new member photo shoot a few weeks after Bid Day. Sisters took pictures and built relationships with their new member class. Individual photos were also taken so the chapter could highlight its awesome new members on social media. Kappa The University of Texas at Austin Going green at all its events earned this chapter the university’s Burnt Orange Tier Award. The chapter places recycling receptacles in each room, composts food waste and uses reusable and compostable utensils and plates in the dining room and at their annual philanthropy fundraiser.

longest received certificates and earned bragging rights. Spectators enjoyed raffles, food, and games, and the chapter raised money for a ZTA Foundation scholarship.

[3] Upsilon University of California, Berkeley

Omicron Brenau University Before the spring semester pivoted to virtual learning due to the pandemic, the chapter held one last sisterhood to include traditional events it would miss—Crown Ball, senior banquet and Brenau’s traditional May Day. Members honored seniors with a pizza party, slideshow and awards and then watched a movie while wearing spa facial masks and sharing candy. Sigma Baker University

[2] Mu Drury University The chapter held its inaugural “Light Up the Night” dance-a-thon fundraiser this spring in honor of sister Caroline Conrad, who passed away last summer. Groups and individuals from all over the campus and community formed teams to compete. Participants danced all night, and the team and individual who danced

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These sisters came up with creative ideas to stay connected while apart. One of the events was a Zoom call with a breast cancer survivor who spoke about her experience. Other campus organizations even joined in, spreading the impact of the event even further. The chapter also used social media platforms to share special memories and continue to facilitate conversations and connections between members.

These sisters hosted a private yoga activity led by a local instructor in the chapter house before leaving campus. This event helped strengthen the bond between members who live in the house and those who do not. After everyone moved off campus, the chapter hosted an online Zumba class to continue fostering their connection and boost morale. Phi Duke University Sisters have utilized virtual chapter meetings to foster their sisterhood while apart. They invited a nutritionist to a virtual meeting to discuss healthy eating habits. The discussion also included body positivity, and members were encouraged to create an open dialogue on these important issues. It was such a success that the chapter hopes to host a similar event upon returning to campus. Alpha Beta University of Pennsylvania This chapter held a ZTA restaurant week early in the semester. Sisters split into smaller groups and traveled to different restaurants around Philadelphia. They found over 100 restaurants that offered

three-course meal deals, so members were able to spend time with one another and build closer relationships while enjoying delicious food. [4] Alpha Gamma University of Michigan This spring, collegians partnered with Michigan Athletics for the women’s and men’s Pink Out basketball games. More than 30 collegians and local ZTA alumnae passed out Think Pink® ribbons and pink pompoms, ran the “I fight for” station, talked with survivors, and helped at the donations table. During each halftime, Zetas walked onto center court with more than 30 survivors and gave them sashes. Alpha Xi Indiana University Before leaving campus, these sisters were able to enjoy an ice cream social with new members at the chapter house. Everyone played ice breaker games to help welcome and learn about their new sisters. It was a sweet opportunity to get to know everyone. Alpha Omicron University of Iowa These sporty sisters gathered for a Super Bowl watch party filled with friends, food and football. Everyone piled onto the couches to cheer for their favorite team, and it was an experience they’ll never forget. Regardless of which team sisters supported during the game, everyone walked away on #TeamZTA.

Alpha Psi University of Missouri Sisters gathered at the chapter house to create care packages for women hospitalized with breast cancer. Chapter members delivered the packages with fun games, mints and other little things to women at the hospital. This event is always a chapter favorite because members can see the real-world impact of their service. Beta Lambda University of Louisville This creative chapter won best costume at the annual Fryberger Greek Sing event. Members were excited about their theme based on popular singer Billie Eilish and glad for the chance to work together. It was uplifting to be rewarded for their efforts, and many more sisters plan to participate in the future. Beta Omicron University of South Carolina Members used adorable pets and Instagram to raise funds for the ZTA Foundation in a creative way while they were away from campus this spring. Sisters entered photos of their pet for a $5 fee. The chapter created a special Instagram account for all the photos, and the photo with the most likes won. [5] Beta Upsilon Kansas State University This chapter hosted its annual “This is how ZTA Rolls” philanthropy event in February. The week leading up to the event offered Think Pink® activities every day, including a challenge between

the other sororities and fraternities. The ticketed event brought together a variety of community members who enjoyed pink-frosted cinnamon rolls and pink lemonade while singing karaoke, playing cornhole and taking pictures in the photo booths. [6] Beta Psi Stetson University Philanthropy week was a smashing success for these Zetas. Donors wearing safety coats and goggles paid to smash a donated, broken-down car. Each hit was $1, and all proceeds went to the ZTA Foundation to support breast cancer education and awareness. The chapter was very excited to change up the tactics to raise money for such a great cause. Gamma Gamma The University of Texas at El Paso Competitive spirit and iPhones helped members stay engaged while staying at home. The chapter’s VP I created a chapter-wide bracket of head-to-head games of 8 Ball, Words with Friends, Mancala, Crazy Eights and others. The activity went on all day and took the chapter’s mind off the pandemic while giving women a refreshing mental break from their schoolwork. Gamma Epsilon Pennsylvania State University Despite the cancellation of their “Pink Tie Brunch,” these sisters still found a way to make an impact. Members made masks to donate to their local communities and wrote cards of encouragement for hospital employees and essential workers. They also created

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and sold special cookbooks featuring recipes from members and their families. Gamma Zeta Mississippi State University Members invited their friends and family to the chapter house for late night treats during the “Brownies for Breast Cancer” fundraiser. This event was a great way for the chapter to gather and focus on the importance of ZTA’s philanthropy while enjoying chocolaty goodness and raising money for the ZTA Foundation. 7

[7] Gamma Iota University of Florida The chapter hosted its fourth annual “Paint Me Pink” 5K during family weekend. The Philanthropy Chairman and her committee organized a hugely successful event. The chapter takes pride in hosting the event, gets great participation and support, and plans to do it all again next year. Gamma Pi University of Georgia

A sisterhood spa event on Galentine’s Day left members talking about it for days afterwards. Members gathered at the chapter house to enjoy spa facial masks, making flower bouquets and a fun Valentine’s Day themed photo booth. The event was a wonderful new way for members to unwind, relax and enjoy time with their sisters. [8] Gamma Kappa James Madison University

During the week of Valentine’s Day, this chapter focused on ZTA’s Key Value of Love. During the chapter meeting, sisters wrote what they loved most about being a part of ZTA on a sticky note and put it in a jar. The Director of Membership Enrichment put the jar in the foyer of the house so sisters could grab a note to boost their spirits whenever they needed it. [9] Gamma Mu University of Nebraska, Omaha

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Sisters made the most of National Strawberry Day by selling chocolatecovered strawberries as well as pink

cookies, popcorn, rice crispy treats and many other goodies. The event supported breast cancer education and awareness and raised funds for the ZTA Foundation. It was also a great opportunity for the chapter to work together and build up their sisterhood. Gamma Xi Indiana University of Pennsylvania The cancellation of spring formal did not get this chapter down. In place of the event, the Historian created “The Zlammys,” an online awards ceremony. Sisters always look forward to the awards ceremony at formal, so this was an opportunity to continue the tradition in a new format. It served as a reminder that Zeta Love is always there. Gamma Rho Auburn University When the chapter’s Big Man on Campus fundraising event was postponed, the chapter released a video on Instagram highlighting each of the nominees and encouraged outside donations. These sisters also partnered with a local boutique. For 48 hours, 15% of sales went to the ZTA Foundation to support breast cancer education and awareness. Gamma Nu University of Virginia During parents’ weekend, members brought their families to the chapter formal for a new twist on the event. Attendees enjoyed fine dining, live music and fun conversation throughout the evening. This cherished event allowed everyone to form tighter bonds with each other and their loved ones. [10] Gamma Omega University of Houston More than half of the chapter participated in a “Valentines for our Vets” service event. They made 200 heartfelt, hand-written cards and decorated them with stickers and drawings. Afterward, four members delivered the cards to the local Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

[11] Delta Gamma High Point University This chapter made it a priority to ensure members felt connected and supported while transitioning to a virtual sisterhood. Inspired by their Orangetheory Fitness sisterhood earlier in the semester, the chapter dedicated a week on social media to provide home workout videos, which members balanced with Netflix watch parties. [12] Delta Delta Baldwin Wallace University This chapter recently implemented Founders Groups. Each group now has an Instagram account to complete weekly photo challenges involving tasks like painting a rock or working out. Groups get a point for every member who participates, and the groups compete against each other to get the most points. It has been helpful in keeping everyone connected while distant. Delta Eta West Texas A&M University A rainstorm couldn’t dampen the spirits of the chapter’s Pink Out game with the university baseball team. Most of the chapter attended and participated in on-field events between innings. It was such a fun way to cheer on the Buffs while raising awareness of breast cancer among the baseball fans in attendance. [13] Delta Zeta Sam Houston State University The chapter increased its focus on academics this year by emphasizing motivation and encouragement. The Academic Achievement Chairman presented weekly “ZTAs Get A’s” and “Geek of the Week” honors to members who showed improvement in academics, work ethic and attitude toward school. The recipients appreciated the recognition for working hard and not giving up. Delta Mu University of Tennessee at Martin Sisters teamed up with a local business, Buff City Soaps, for a fundraiser. The store made the soaps with a eucalyptus scent and a pink and white swirl design

to match breast cancer awareness colors. Sisters sold the soap to friends and family, and a portion of the proceeds went to support breast cancer education and awareness. Delta Nu University of New Orleans Sisters from this chapter partnered with members of the University of New Orleans Garden Club for an eco-friendly service project. Together, the two groups turned recycled pumpkins into natural bird feeders and placed them around campus. It was a great example of how to give something old a new purpose.

Delta Pi Eastern New Mexico University This chapter held a painting contest as a way for sisters to stay in touch and do something creative while apart. The contest was a fun and unique way to help members connect and forget—at least momentarily—that they wouldn’t return to campus for the rest of the spring semester. [14] Delta Sigma Lamar University

Six members represented the chapter at Officer Leadership Academy Area II in Atlanta, Georgia. They gained valuable wisdom and knowledge to bring back and share with sisters. These collegians were able to interact and collaborate with officers from other chapters, who provided and received helpful ideas, feedback and knowledge to assist each officer with her leadership role. Delta Upsilon West Virginia Wesleyan College

Since the regularly scheduled events of Greek Week were canceled, the college hosted a virtual Spirit Week. With the help of alumnae in the area, these sisters earned first place based on the most participation and posts made during the event. Delta Omega Westminster College This chapter saw an opportunity to better connect with their community, so members spent an afternoon at

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14 a senior retirement community in New Wilmington, Pennsylvania. They participated in activities like bingo and making crafts throughout the day. Members and residents alike shared many smiles and had a great time. Zeta Alpha University of Evansville Instead of its usual “Rent a Puppy” and “Tackle for a Cure” events, the chapter adapted and found a way to hold a virtual fundraiser. Members posted fundraising cards with squares representing different monetary amounts on social media so friends and family could donate to the Tri-State Food Bank. Zeta Gamma Youngstown State University This chapter teamed up with Delta Kappa Chapter (Louisiana State University) to become pen pals. Organizers paired sisters from each chapter based on their position in ZTA, interests or hobbies. Their letters described their unique ZTA experiences, offered encouragement and shared ideas. Each sister was grateful for a new perspective and friend. Zeta Theta East Central University To promote a sense of belonging, this chapter’s Program Council took the time to make invitations and formally invite each member to its Galentine’s Day sisterhood. Sisters expressed that they felt incredibly loved and included during a time that can be difficult for some people. Making invitations was a small activity that had a huge impact. 32 Themis Summer 2020 | Collegiate Chapter News

15 [14] Zeta Lambda Rider University This chapter is proud of its members for reaching new heights even through the challenges they faced due to the pandemic last semester. Several sisters were inducted into Order of Omega Honor Society and Omicron Delta Kappa Honor Society, both of which recognize fraternity and sorority members for their high standards of leadership. Zeta Omicron Arkansas State University These sisters held an inaugural “Step for a Cure” philanthropy event in February, which included competitors from six different fraternities and sororities. The chapter sold tickets for the event and had more than 300 people in attendance. It was a very successful event to kick off the year in terms of participation, attendance and money raised. [15] Zeta Psi Jacksonville State University Learning to be “humble in success, and without bitterness in defeat” was the topic of a chapter enrichment program. The presentation touched on the definition of Humility, why it is important in ZTA and steps each member can take to be humble. Zeta Upsilon Edinboro University The Sisterhood Chairman, the Historian and the Director of Fraternity Education cross-programmed to create a lovethemed sisterhood event for Valentine’s

16 Day. There were pink and red snacks, a photo wall, a bingo game, and fun decorations. Sisters also wrote sweet notes for each other and celebrated “Love, ‘the greatest of all things.’” Eta Zeta Elon University Trying to balance multiple fully online classes can be mentally taxing, so this chapter’s Historian created weekly virtual book club meetings to add some fun to the mix. Sisters gathered via Zoom for a welcome break from assigned schoolwork to connect with one another in a new way. Eta Iota Valdosta State University These women lived out ZTA’s Service & Philanthropy Key Value this year. They paired with a local ministry group to serve a spaghetti dinner to homeless people in their county. At another event, members wrote letters to troops. Their “Think Pink®, Drink Pink” pink lemonade tabling event promoted breast cancer education and awareness on campus. Eta Lambda College of Charleston These collegians believe sisterhood events increase trust and companionship when everyone can participate. A favorite event this year was a boxing class at a studio in downtown Charleston. Members motivated each other while encouraging healthy habits. The event created stronger relationships and showed members support.

18 [16] Eta Mu Augusta University Shopping with sisters while supporting a locally owned business was a win-win for this chapter. A local boutique hosted the chapter with snacks, drinks, ZTA signs and goody bags with custom stickers and buttons. This sisterhood event had a great turnout, and the store thanked the members with a 20% discount on their purchases. [17] Eta Sigma The University of North Carolina at Pembroke These women kept busy with several philanthropic and service efforts this semester. During women’s and men’s Pink Out basketball games, members passed out ribbons, collected donations and shared information on breast cancer education and awareness with attendees. They also hosted a chocolate-covered strawberry sale and participated in a cleanup around campus. Eta Phi Illinois State University This chapter added an Environmental Chairman to Program Council. This sister started donation boxes for clothing and mascara wands and improved the chapter’s recycling habits. Members learned how mascara wands can help wildlife and how to shop more sustainably. Eta Upsilon Missouri Southern State University Every year for recruitment photo shoots, a group goes to unique places around

the community to get some fun, local photos. Often, the sisters spend more time laughing and eating good food than taking photos, but that’s what makes it entertaining. Their favorite location was Caroline’s, an ice cream shop, which had a great backdrop of vintage coke bottles. [18] Theta Gamma Texas A&M University This chapter traveled back in time to the 1920s with a fashionable date party. Sisters put on their best sparkly and beaded flapper dresses, headbands, boas and pearls to dance the night away. Members enjoyed stepping into the heels of women from the 20th century. Theta Delta Salisbury University This chapter’s first annual Pink Gala proved to be a huge success. Alumnae, family members and students enjoyed dinner, music and mingling. The chapter raised money for philanthropy by selling tickets and raffling off donated gift baskets. It was dubbed the event of the semester and allowed the chapter to connect with the campus community for a great cause. [19] Theta Theta Arkansas Tech University This chapter won a programming award at this year’s Zeta Day for an event held in Little Rock with Zeta Omicron Chapter (Arkansas State University). Everyone met at Little Rock Animal Village to walk dogs, make new friends and meet sisters from another school. It was a really memorable experience for every sister.

19 Theta Zeta Wofford College While living in different cities and states this semester, Big Sisters bombarded their Littles with love over Zoom. Using PowerPoints, TikToks and Spotify playlists, Bigs showed how much they missed and loved their Littles. One of the chapter’s favorite videos was a TikTok remix of the theme song from “Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.” Theta Sigma Winthrop University Members and their moms made memories at the chapter’s mother’s pinning in March. Everyone tried to identify chapter sisters in a slideshow of childhood pictures. A photo booth with fun props captured the happy moments. The open ceremony of presenting the ZTA mother’s pins was a joy for all the moms, some of whom are ZTA alumnae. Iota Alpha Robert Morris University To celebrate Galentine’s Day, members gathered for a fun-filled sisterhood photo shoot. To show appreciation, they wrote thoughtful notes to each other and collected them in decorated bags. Using love-themed props, members posed for photos that they later used on social media to display their strong connection. Iota Gamma College of New Jersey During Deferred Recruitment, members made time to check in with one another. Collegiate Chapter News | Themis Summer 2020

The chapter held a sisterhood event that week where each person received a card with another member’s name on it and wrote words of encouragement. Amid such a busy time, it lightened the mood and gave members the opportunity to express their gratitude for each other.

story and tagged three friends. A sister’s mom also spoke to the chapter about her fight with breast cancer. The successful online event supported breast cancer education and awareness.

Iota Theta Georgia Institute of Technology

The chapter’s Philanthropy Chairman partnered with the Historian to host a virtual Think Pink® Week. The virtual schedule posted on Instagram and Facebook explained the theme for each day, like wearing a pink outfit or making pink food. Members reposted participants’ pictures to the chapter’s social media accounts. It was a fun way to raise money and get the community involved in raising awareness.

Program Council works hard year-round to reinforce the sense of belonging in the chapter. At an ice-skating sisterhood, new members bonded with older members while testing their balance and listening to music. A highlight was the “Sisterhood Circle” game, where the emcee would ask members to stay in the circle if, for example, Strawberry Fest was their favorite philanthropy event. Iota Iota Fairleigh Dickinson University

This chapter introduced a new philanthropy event called “Catwalk for a Cure.” Chapter sisters and members of campus clubs and other fraternity/ sorority organizations strutted the catwalk in honor of those who had survived breast cancer, were currently fighting it or had lost their battle. In a heartwarming and special moment, breast cancer survivors in attendance were invited to walk the catwalk. Iota Phi North Carolina State University

The newly elected Executive Committee officers created an exciting new system called “Filling in the Crown.” Rather than having to reach a certain number of points, members are required to complete five different areas of service or involvement within the chapter to be eligible to attend functions like formal. The new system successfully increased the chapter’s service hours. Iota Chi Middle Tennessee State University

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The chapter hosted a virtual philanthropy week during which the chapter set multiple challenges for the campus Panhellenic community, including one day where every chapter posted a breast cancer statistic to their

Iota Psi Rochester Institute of Technology

[20] Iota Omega University of Maryland These women paired up with a men’s fraternity to host their annual foodthemed philanthropy event. This year, it was called “Zetacos,” and attendees from the community enjoyed an endless buffet of tacos and desserts. The partnership of other fraternity/ sorority members and the campus community resulted in a great evening of fundraising and delicious food. [21] Kappa Theta California State University, San Bernardino Before leaving for the semester, these sisters enjoyed a fun sisterhood event at an escape room. Lots of collegians attended, and everyone enjoyed working together to communicate, solve the clues and escape. Each sister brought a unique skill to the room to unite the team and accomplish their goal. Kappa Mu Linfield College This chapter created “Sister Friday” to keep sisters engaged and connected. Recently, two sisters held a virtual baking night over Zoom as a fun way to share an interest and do more than sit in front of the computer. This new activity has been a great way to reassure chapter members that everyone has someone she can count on for support.

Kappa Omicron Merrimack College This chapter takes note of new opportunities and decided to try something new for a sisterhood event shortly after welcoming new members to the chapter through the Continuous Open Bidding process. Sisters spent the day tie-dying shirts and eating delicious snacks. The timing of this event allowed the chapter to get to know its newest members on a deeper level. Kappa Pi University of South Carolina Aiken During the Behind Happy Faces workshops, the Risk Reduction and Education Chairman led a “Highs and Lows” activity. After each program, sisters shared a high or low from the week. The concept allowed the chapter to learn who needed help or had something to celebrate while strengthening its sisterhood. Kappa Rho University of South Carolina Upstate For a fun and unique sisterhood event before the start of midterm exams, members of this chapter shared a gift exchange with $10 items. Sisters laughed all night as they traded gifts. It was an enjoyable bonding process and a great way to boost spirits before a particularly stressful week. [22] Kappa Tau Florida Gulf Coast University The chapter’s Panhellenic Delegate encouraged participation in other groups’ activities this year with incentives for attendance and an award at the end of the semester for the sisters who participated in the most events. As a result, the chapter won Chi Omega’s “Swishes for Wishes” basketball tournament and Tri Delta’s “Delta Battleship” canoe sinking competition. Kappa Upsilon Georgia College Variety makes sisterhood memorable for this chapter. Members held a retreat at a park, followed by dinner and bonding games. On Galentine’s Day, they celebrated the Key Value of Love

with chocolate-covered strawberries. Freshmen and sophomores made face masks at a girls night in. Seniors and freshmen shared a picnic dinner while watching the sunset at one of the highest points in the city. Kappa Omega Saint Louis University Food is the way to this chapter’s heart. Early in the spring, sisters visited Jilly’s Cupcakes, winner of the Food Network show “Cupcake Wars.” After leaving campus, sisters adapted their “MEALZ,” event into a virtual format. Members had the opportunity to catch up over coffee or a meal via Zoom, and the event lasted two hours because everyone enjoyed it so much. Lambda Alpha Sacred Heart University These women hosted their first bowling sisterhood on campus. Many new members attended and had the opportunity to bond with the other chapter members. They had the whole place to themselves and were able to play music, take pictures and put their skills to the test. Lambda Beta University of Rhode Island To celebrate their two newest members, the Sisterhood Chairman and the New Member Coordinator teamed up to host a skate night. They rented out a local roller-skating rink and encouraged members to come dressed in their best retro clothing. Everyone had a great time skating and making memories. Lambda Epsilon Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis This chapter rented cabins at Bradford Woods for its annual retreat. They played games, choreographed dances for an annual campus competition and laughed all night. Members wrote notes to share with one another and placed them in bags with each sister’s name. Sisters love this tradition to lift each other up and remember their “why.”

Lambda Iota Vanderbilt University Before a chapter meeting, these sisters held a ZTA club fair. Upperclassmen who were more heavily involved with other groups and clubs shared information about their extracurricular activities. The chapter wanted to make it easy for younger members to get involved and know they would have a ZTA connection within the other activities. Lambda Xi Seton Hall University Sisters served tater tots and chicken nuggets at an event called “Zater Tots and Nugs.” For a few dollars, guests were able to snack and socialize. Members took this opportunity to inform campus and community members about breast cancer education and awareness while raising money for the ZTA Foundation. [23] Lambda Omicron Boise State University During a three-day philanthropy tabling event called “Treats for Someone Sweet,” members sold roses and yummy treats to fellow students. Those who purchased an item could either take it home or send it to a member of another fraternity/sorority organization to show their appreciation. Lambda Pi Reinhardt University To better connect new members with potential Big Sisters, this chapter hosted a “Speed Zeta-ing” event. New members chatted with each potential Big Sister speed-dating style and got to know everyone better, since the whole chapter attended. Each member enjoyed this fun opportunity to mingle and share treats. Lambda Sigma University of Texas at Tyler This chapter decided to put a groovy twist on a fun-filled sisterhood event. At a local skating rink, they hosted an event called “That ’70s Sisterhood” based on the popular program “That ’70s Show.” Sisters had a great time dressing up and jamming to fun music with each other.

Collegiate Chapter News | Themis Summer 2020

36 Themis Summer 2020 | Points of Pride

THEMIS 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: While your daughter is in college, her magazine is sent to her home address. If she is not living at home, please send in her new address.

HOW TO SUBMIT NEWS Send all news and photos to the Communication Department by emailing news@zetataualpha.org or through bit.ly/ThemisStories. 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.

[1] Gamma Phi Chapter (University of North Texas) senior

[6] Eta Rho Chapter (The University of North Alabama) senior

[2] Lambda Xi Chapter (Seton Hall University) senior

[7] Theta Chapter (Bethany College) senior

[3] Alpha Gamma Chapter (University of Michigan) seniors

[8] Alpha Upsilon Chapter (Oklahoma State University) seniors

[4] Lambda Kappa Chapter (Appalachian State University) senior

[9] Kappa Sigma Chapter (University of South Florida) seniors

[5] Iota Omega Chapter (University of Maryland) seniors

[10] Zeta Chapter (University of Tennessee, Knoxville) senior and her pup

Member, Fraternity Communications Association and National Panhellenic Conference © 2020 Zeta Tau Alpha Fraternity No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of Zeta Tau Alpha.

Points of Pride | Themis Summer 2020

1036 S. Rangeline Road Carmel, IN 46032 zetataualpha.org

C. D. E.

B. A.

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A. Crown Ring, #2003 SS $51 | B. Loyalty Crest Ring, #3030 10K $212 SS $97 | C. Stackable CZ Band Ring, #143864 SS $26 SS with gold plate $26 | D. Addy Ring, #ADDY GP $35 SP $35 | E. Mini Monogram Ring, #0756 10K $238 SS $52 | F. Crested Signet Ring, #0345 10K $299 SS $94 | G. NEW! Zeta Filigree Crest Ring, #0629 10KR $459 SS $130 K–karat gold, KR–karat rose gold, SS–sterling silver, GP–gold-plated, SP-silver-plated. Items enlarged to show detail. Prices subject to change.

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