47 minute read
CHAPTER BY CHAPTER INSIGHTS FROM ZTA AUTHORS
from Themis—Summer 2021
Insights
FROM ZTA AUTHORS
| By Allie Windergerst Smaha, Contributing Writer |
Zetas around the globe share many different passions and hobbies. It’s no surprise there are plenty of talented sisters in our midst— including many authors, five of whom shared their journeys to authorship and advice with us.
Meet the writers: Stephanie Wrobel, Ellen Crawford Cooke, Dr. Sonja Ardoin, Linda McKenna Hohertz, and Carol Cook Barreyre.
Stephanie Wrobel
Stephanie (Beta Delta Chapter, Miami University) writes suspense/mystery novels. Her debut book, “Darling Rose Gold,” was published in 2020 and her second book, “This Might Hurt,” comes out in the U.S. in February 2022. Stephanie shared about what it’s like to write suspense and the publishing process.
Q: What draws you to suspense as a writer?
A: I didn’t really set out to write suspense, but I had an interest in dark topics that lends itself well to that genre. I love the pacing of suspense— the inciting incident is right there in chapter one. I think the best stories have really intriguing characters and a plot that keeps moving, and suspense as a genre does that very well.
Q: What’s your favorite part of the writing/publishing process?
A: The very beginning of a new (good) idea, when you can’t think about anything else. It feels just like falling in love, except you don’t have to worry about coming on too strong or taking another person’s feelings into account!
Q: What’s the most challenging part of writing suspense and the types of characters that make suspenseful books so interesting?
A: Feeling like you have to conform to certain expectations of the genre— readers expect that some dark stuff is going to happen, people are going to make poor life decisions, etc. That’s the challenge for me, to make sure I keep within those confines to a certain extent. And writing unlikable characters. That’s what I personally like reading—I don’t care if I love or hate them as long as I have feelings toward them. But I know a lot of readers feel like, “I hated every character in this book, so I wasted my time.” That’s a risk I took with “Darling Rose Gold,” and it’s interesting to see the reactions.
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring writers?
A: Set a measurable goal so you can watch yourself make progress. Get qualified, constructive feedback. Treat the business side of writing as part of the job—because it is! Start writing first drafts of your query letter and synopsis months before you’re ready to send your manuscript out. Research agents and take the time to find a list of 20 or 30 that fit your book really well. Don’t rush this part of the process. You will learn a ton along the way, and the final result you send out will be much more polished.
Ellen Crawford Cooke
Ellen is a Special Initiate of Delta Alpha Chapter (California State University, Long Beach) and a former Editor at ZTA’s International Office. She co-wrote a novel called “Three Fiddles” with her biological sisters that was published in 2019. Ellen shared what it’s like to co-write with family and how to stay inspired along the way.
Q: What was your process like writing with co-authors who are also family?
A: Our book is about three sisters, and each has different chapters from her perspective. Every set of three chapters is about the same moment in time, so as the youngest, my chapter was always third. I would usually write mine after I got theirs. That helped with writer’s block, and we also had a very detailed outline so we could all write and make it cohesive. Our process challenged me creatively in a way I don’t know I would’ve experienced if I had done it on my own, because it wasn’t just my ideas that went into the book—it was all of ours.
Q: What’s your favorite part of the writing/publishing process?
A: I felt like I got to know my sisters in different ways and learn things about them. We started writing when we lived in three different states, and I had just moved to California where I only knew my now-husband and was working from home. To have that extra connection with my sisters and knowing that every two weeks I’d see how they took the chapter and wrote it differently from the way I did—that was really cool. There was a lot of growth between the three of us just from telling the stories and sharing them with each other.
Q: What advice can you share for writers interested in selfpublishing?
A: With technology the way it is now, it’s so much easier to self-publish. There used to be a lot more stigma about it, but it’s becoming more common. If it’s the option that is easiest for you or that you like the best, just go for it and don’t feel like it’s any less of an accomplishment. Writing a book is a lot of work, and it’s super vulnerable to put yourself out there and let people read your
— Stephanie Wrobel
work. I think it’s really cool to have the confidence to publish it yourself and share it with people.
Dr. Sonja Ardoin
Sonja (Delta Kappa Chapter, Louisiana State University) is a member of the Charlotte, NC Chapter. She has written and co-written four higher education, non-fiction books. Sonja shared many tips about the coauthorship process.
Q: What’s the best advice you’ve ever received as an author?
A: Words on a page are better than no words on a page. The first draft won’t be the last, so appreciate that you’re getting words on the page.
You might get a lot of rejections, but keep at it until you’ve exhausted all options or no longer feel compelled to bring it to fruition.
Lastly, everything needs revision, all the time. Even after it’s published, you will always think you need to go back and revise it.
Q: What are some of the challenges of writing with co-authors, and how do you overcome them?
A: Because some people like to do things early and some are
procrastinators, the pace of work and response times can be a challenge—so can meshing writing styles. You can manage both with good, consistent communication and by being upfront with people as things pop up so you can plan together.
Q: On the flip side, what benefits does co-authorship bring?
A: Better writing, because there’s more than one mind and perspective. Most of my work is related to identities I hold or experiences I have had. I often write with people who hold different racial or sexual identities than I do. This makes the writing more inclusive and more interesting, since it’s making space for more voices.
Q: What advice would you give to aspiring writers who will write with co-authors one day?
A: Know who you are and know who they are. It’s kind of like traveling with people—some will be awesome, and others you wouldn’t be able to travel with. Some folks I write with often since we have a groove and workflow that works for us. Set clear expectations, have good communication, and recognize what you’re good at and what they’re good at. When you’re done, get together to celebrate your wins; it creates a supportive community for your writing and gives you a chance to pause and acknowledge your shared experience.
“Having this exercise of doing something creative with your sisters and seeing where it takes you is a good way to get vulnerable and get to know people on a different level.” — Ellen Crawford Cooke
These authors’ paths to publishing looked very different, but each noted the support and encouragement they received from their ZTA sisters along the way.
Stephanie: One of my best friends to this day is my Big Sister in ZTA. She has been a source of endless support and encouragement in every endeavor I’ve pursued, and this book was no different; she has been my loudest cheerleader.
Sonja: Dr. Becca McConn Rampe (Theta Nu Chapter, Auburn University at Montgomery), has been a cheerleader for me since my first book publication in 2014. She always makes sure I celebrate my wins.
Ellen: A lot of sisters and IO staff members were very encouraging and supportive after we published our book. Having that community behind me has been great.
Linda: After I published, my ZTA sisters from the San Antonio, TX Chapter invited me to be a guest speaker at a luncheon honoring my book. It was such a thrill for me to share my first published book with them. I will never forget their graciousness and support.
Carol: Some of my most loyal readers are my Big Sister and my real older sister, who is also my Grandbig. I named the main character in one of my young adult novels that I hope my publisher will release this year after one of my dear ZTA friends.
— Dr. Sonja Ardoin
Linda McKenna Hohertz
Linda (Gamma Gamma Chapter, The University of Texas at El Paso) is affiliated with the San Antonio, TX Chapter. Linda writes children’s books, and her first book, “The Mouse Tails of Dewey Alowishus,” was published in 2018. She shared her inspiration and her writing process.
Q: What made you decide to turn your poetry writing into a children’s book?
A: When I decided that I was going to work with younger kiddos at the grade school level, the kinds of questions they had and their imagination inspired me. I went on a road trip one summer with my mom and husband. She was on the passenger side and started to get in the truck when she suddenly yelled, “Oh my gosh, there’s a mouse that went under my seat.” And I said, “No way—we didn’t take a mouse from the ranch all the way to the Gulf Coast,” but we did. That’s really how Dewey Alowishus became that little explorer that left the ranch—our house—and had his first adventure away from home.
Q: What surprised you about the process of writing/ publishing your book?
A: It’s a lot more involved than I ever really thought. You sit down and write, and that’s the part I enjoy doing. But I’ve learned that it’s not just about the writing and the creating; you also have to be your own advocate. I never realized there’s so much that goes into marketing and getting the word out about a book. Publishers can only do so much; then, the writer must research how to best connect the public with a story. Next, the writer steps from the creation of a book into the world of advertising. And the journey continues with writer becoming promoter!
Q: What advice would you give aspiring authors?
A: Take every opportunity to write and remember that it may take time; but if you believe in yourself and your writing, you will get your story published.
Take constructive criticism, as it only helps in your writing process. There is much to learn from all those connected to the writing world, such as editors, publishers and critics.
Carol Cook Barreyre
Carol (Theta Omicron Chapter, Baylor University) writes contemporary romantic suspense and young adult contemporary fiction under the name Addison Brae and has two published books: “Becker Circle” and “Dark Energy.” Carol shared what it’s like to write for different genres and audiences.
Q: What’s the best advice you’ve received as a writer?
A: Write the best book you can write. Agents, editors and other writers say this all the time. Believe them. Once published, you can’t take out the chapter you were unsure about, strengthen a character you didn’t get to know well enough or fix those couple of typos.
Q: What’s your favorite part of the writing process?
A: I really enjoy when a character truly clicks—when I feel like I’ve gotten to know who they truly are for the first time. I also love reaching that point when I’ve written enough of a manuscript to know it can be a full novel, and finishing a first draft
— Carol Cook Barreyre
is huge. Another part I love about writing is being able to control the outcome for characters. Reaching readers is the most gratifying part of writing though—that includes getting a good review or hearing how a reader related to a character or how your story moved them.
Q: What do you do when you get stuck with your writing?
A: If I ever get stuck, I immerse myself in the book’s setting by going to a similar location. You look at people and try to imagine what their story is based on what they’re wearing, what they say, what they do, what they’re drinking, how they interact with people. You make up stories about people when you see them. I’ve been known to get ideas from things I’ve heard people saying.
Q: What advice would you share with other writers?
A: Join a writing organization and a critique group to get out of your comfort zone, learn, share, network and become an even better, more connected writer.
COLLEGIATE RECRUITMENT AMBASSADORS BECOME NEWEST ZTA VOLUNTEERS
By Caroline Villarreal, Alumnae Engagement Manager
Over the years, Zeta Tau Alpha and the other member organizations of the National Panhellenic Conference have experienced exciting growth and shifts in how they recruit collegiate women on campuses across the country. Knowing the importance of adaptability, in 2018, National Council began to explore how ZTA’s current reference process and volunteer structure could adapt to meet chapters’ and potential new members’ needs. In 2019, National Council appointed a task force to review the Key Woman volunteer position and propose a plan to transition to a new volunteer role that would better meet the needs of the Fraternity and the NPC community at large.
Enter: Collegiate Recruitment Ambassadors. This year, alumnae chapters have begun electing members to fill this new leadership role within their groups. The primary goal for a Collegiate Recruitment Ambassador will be to act as an educator, mentor and point of contact for all questions related to sorority recruitment and the Panhellenic sorority experience. The focus for the role will be the overall sorority experience rather than the ZTA experience alone because while the leadership role is tied to ZTA, the Collegiate Recruitment Ambassador will be an advocate for all sororities and the overall sorority community.
A few of the Collegiate Recruitment Ambassador’s functions and responsibilities will include:
• Serving as an educator and advocate of values-based recruitment and the mutual selection process • Serving as a resource for alumnae and potential new members who have questions about sorority life and the recruitment process • Understanding and being able to clearly explain ZTA’s Nine
Key Values • Educating alumnae on updated
NPC policies and practices related to sorority recruitment, membership and basic Release
Figure Methodology (RFM) • Providing guidance on submitting voluntary references (in ZTA, the Membership Information
Sheet or “MIS”) ZTA is excited to see sisters in this new role usher in the next generation of sorority women and lead the Panhellenic community in the ongoing mission to make the sorority experience more accessible and transparent for alumnae, collegians and potential new members.
THINK THIS SOUNDS LIKE THE VOLUNTEER ROLE FOR YOU?
Connect with your local alumnae chapter and chat with the current Executive Committee to see if the role has been filled. If it is still available, you may be the perfect person for the job!
Collegiate
chapter news
[1] Zeta
University of Tennessee, Knoxville These members attended a snow tubing sisterhood event in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. It brought together sisters who may not have known each other prior to the event, and it was a great way to get their minds off school. After a day of adventure together, many sisters found they have more in common than they realized.
Theta
Bethany College This chapter focused on ZTA’s Lifelong Learning Key Value. An advisor put together a virtual presentation about the chapter’s history in celebration of its founding date. Both collegians and alumnae attended. The Ritual Chair also put together a slideshow featuring information about ZTA’s patron goddess, Themis. These events helped members feel more connected to each other and the Fraternity.
Kappa
The University of Texas at Austin The Executive Committee increased its officers’ availability and deepened sisterhood. Officers held sisterhood dinners with up to nine sisters twice a week in the backyard instead of hosting chapter dinners. The President hosted “Strawberry Sessions,” where sisters could share ideas, concerns and personal updates. The EC also established a Sharing the Love Committee to encourage sisters.
[2] Sigma
Baker University In February, sisters enjoyed a Galentine’s party as the first sisterhood event of the semester. Each member submitted information about her interests, and the Director of Sisterhood randomly paired participants. Sisters had a week to put together gifts for their Galentines and revealed their identities on the day of the event.
Psi
University of Washington To raise money for breast cancer education and awareness, the Director of Philanthropy, Service & Fundraising planned a bubble tea fundraiser to take place in May. The popularity of bubble tea among students made for a promising fundraiser. For every purchase, 20% of the proceeds went to ZTA’s philanthropy.
Alpha Theta
Purdue University This chapter’s Sisterhood Chairs got creative with socially distanced activities like “Quiz on the Bowl.” Every week, there was a fact with a QR code posted on each bathroom stall in the house. Women scanned the QR code posted on the paper and guessed which sister the fact belonged to. Members found the little things in life bring them closer.
[3] Alpha Omicron
The University of Iowa These competitive sisters transformed their usual date party into a sisterhood called “Zeta Games.” They met at a local park in shifts to play games for a trophy. Spacing out time slots and focusing on sanitizing and social distancing were key to making the social event safe.
Alpha Phi
Northwestern University Food has been a cornerstone of this chapter’s sisterhood events. The most recent new member class went to a local restaurant, got to meet in person and shared some ice cream afterward. Older members of the chapter also met for dinners and brunches throughout the spring term.
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Alpha Psi
University of Missouri For the spring semester family weekend, participating sisters were able to invite one family member each to join them for goat yoga at a nearby farm. This event represented ZTA’s Love Key Value by creating a shared space for their families to interact with the chapter’s sisterhood and see members’ friendship firsthand.
Beta Gamma
Florida State University An ice skating rink sisterhood gave new members the chance to meet their sisters in person. Because new members could not go to the chapter house for events due to COVID-19 safety guidelines, this activity brought sisters closer together. It was a great chance to socialize and create stronger bonds.
[4] Beta Theta
Franklin College During this chapter’s Pink Week, members coordinated a cornhole tournament, posted virtual donation bingo cards and partnered with a local nutrition drink shop. Throughout the week, the campus community could vote on which member had the cutest dog by donating or buying a dessert. The week ended with a “Dog Dash,” where anyone could donate money to walk their dogs.
Beta Nu
New Mexico State University The Director of Sisterhood really “hit the bullseye” with an ax-throwing event for the chapter. The chapter rented out a local ax-throwing business so members could meet in person for the first time this semester and relieve some stress. The event even included some friendly competition based on a points system.
[5] Beta Omicron
University of South Carolina Officers focused on cross-programming this semester. The Sisterhood, Mental Wellness, Inclusion and Sunshine chairs worked together to offer one of the chapter’s most popular events, “Empower with Flowers.” Sisters came to the house to make bouquets to gift to other members. Each type of flower represented a different value the bouquet creators saw in their sisters.
[6] Beta Upsilon
Kansas State University The chapter held its first-ever “Bean Dip and Bentleys” philanthropy event, where sisters worked shifts and sold tickets for bean dip, a local favorite from a restaurant. In the event’s drive-thru format, guests showed proof of ticket purchase and pulled forward to receive their bean dip and chip bags. Members also handed out pink ribbons.
[7] Beta Omega
Union University These sisters focused on philanthropy and service this semester. During their “Drink Pink” percentage day with a local loaded tea store, 10% of sales went toward breast cancer education and awareness. The chapter also sold handdipped, chocolate-covered strawberries to raise money for the ZTA Foundation.
Gamma Gamma
The University of Texas at El Paso This chapter made the best of sisterhood in a completely virtual semester. One of the members’ favorite activities was the pot painting sisterhood during Pink Week. They enjoyed hearing what philanthropy meant to each sister and sharing why they decided to join ZTA.
[8] Gamma Epsilon
Pennsylvania State University Doughnuts weren’t the only sweet treat at this chapter’s spring sisterhood in April; being able to bond in person was a highlight for every member. Sisters enjoyed doughnuts and coffee on the student union building lawn while getting to know newer members and catching up with old friends.
[9] Gamma Zeta
Mississippi State University Sisters enjoyed the final rose “Bachelor” watch party in the courtyard. Members ate their fill of chips and queso and chocolate-covered strawberries during what was one of their first in-person
[10] Gamma Kappa
James Madison University In April, these sisters held their first-ever philanthropy dodgeball tournament. In a great show of support, fraternities and sororities from all over campus masked up, agreed to follow social distancing guidelines and donated money to participate. The successful fundraiser benefited breast cancer education and awareness.
Gamma Rho
Auburn University On Valentine’s Day, this chapter’s Sisterhood Chairs put together cookie decorating boxes for members to make with a small group of sisters. Each group posted pictures to social media, and the chapter account reposted them. Even though sisters couldn’t all be together, they enjoyed seeing everyone’s creations.
Gamma Chi
Indiana State University Sisters sold packages of nine made-fromscratch “Zinnamon rolls” for $10 to their fellow students and staff. The fundraiser was so well-received that the chapter sold almost 80% of its supply on the first day of the two-day event. Members also sold hand sanitizer and passed out pink ribbons to passersby.
Gamma Phi
University of North Texas These sisters like to get the entire fraternity and sorority life community involved in their Think Pink® Week. In the main competition this year, fraternity men had to take a fun picture that in some way showcased ZTA’s philanthropy. The most-liked post won.
Gamma Psi
Texas Christian University The chapter hosted an in-person sisterhood dinner for the whole chapter. The Founders Group with the most points and members with high GPAs received awards, and there was a special slideshow honoring the seniors. This event was a fun way to celebrate sisterhood and recognize members for their hard work and dedication to ZTA.
Gamma Omega
University of Houston This service-oriented chapter hosted a food donation drive for a pantry on campus called PEEPS Pantry. The volunteer-run pantry provides free food, toiletries and other supplies to any student in need. Members felt honored to be able to help their classmates.
Delta Alpha
California State University, Long Beach During a virtual sisterhood event based on “Cupcake Wars,” Zetas and other Panhellenic sisters came ready with baked cupcakes. Their workspaces included frosting, sprinkles and other goodies. Participants broke out into smaller teams, decorated cupcakes and chose the best one to represent the team. The winner was a periwinkle cupcake with lily pads and a frog on top.
[11] Delta Beta
Florida Southern College A total chapter retreat at Topgolf was a “hole-in-one” for these sisters. Members posed with a themed banner between practicing their swings and wore T-shirts made for the event. The retreat was the first time sisters were able to connect in person since the pandemic started.
Delta Gamma
High Point University Since COVID-19 regulations prevented these members from holding events off campus, they brought the fun to the university. Sisters arranged for a food truck to come to campus and ordered wings and sides across several different time slots. They found there’s nothing better than great company and food.
Delta Delta
Baldwin Wallace University This chapter hosted a Founders-themed mystery event during Zeta Week. Groups 8
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received clues to help them figure out which Founder they were assigned. The first group to guess its assigned Founder correctly won.
Delta Pi
Eastern New Mexico University Members held a spaghetti dinner to raise money for breast cancer education and awareness. The community was so supportive of the dinner that the chapter tripled its fundraising goal. The dinner was a great chance to see sisters from out of town and raise awareness.
[12] Delta Omega
Westminster College These creative sisters painted canvases with empowering quotes or art and wrote heartfelt letters for care packages they created for cancer patients. The chapter provided the materials to create the care packages, and two sisters delivered the bags to the hospital.
[13] Zeta Gamma
Youngstown State University After the school’s annual Greek Sing was canceled last year, sisters were extra excited to participate virtually (and win) this year. The Disney-themed event inspired members to perform songs by Hannah Montana. The chapter held a watch party to see all the performances.
Zeta Theta
East Central University What was supposed to be a Recruitment event turned into impromptu sisterhood time when bad weather made it too dangerous for potential new members to attend. Since sisters were already together, they took advantage of the time and materials for a paint pouring event. Members mixed their own colors and enjoyed creating art together.
Zeta Lambda
Rider University This chapter collaborated with groups outside of the National Panhellenic Conference to create presentations on various topics, including confirmation bias, stigmas about fraternity/sorority life and inclusion. Sisters also had the opportunity to work with members of Theta Phi Alpha to collect a list of relevant topics to highlight the positive aspects of fraternity/sorority life.
Zeta Sigma
The University of Texas at Arlington These sisters plan to make its successful “Pretty in Pink” fashion show an annual event. Community members and local businesses sponsored the show, which supported breast cancer education and awareness. Several survivors spoke about their experience, and attendees wore pink on the runway.
Zeta Psi
Jacksonville State University During the “Sister, I Love You” event, members created bouquets of flowers and wrote sweet notes for other sisters. They broke into groups with their new member classes and dedicated their bouquets to sisters who impacted their ZTA experience.
Zeta Upsilon
Edinboro University of Pennsylvania Since the school operated in a hybrid format, sisters came up with a creative way to keep in touch. Each week, a member wrote about “Maud’s journey,” or all the places the cardboard cutout of Maud went. Maud helped members work, went to the campus gym, and even accompanied a sister to the doctor.
[14] Eta Gamma
West Chester University of Pennsylvania For their first in-person meeting, initiated and new members went to a local bowling alley. Everyone wore masks and practiced social distancing in their teams of four women per bowling lane. This event was an extremely rewarding and fulfilling experience for all who attended.
Eta Beta
Duquesne University Instead of the usual sisterhood dinner off campus, sisters gathered at College Hall lawn and had a cookout to be able to social distance and still see each other in person. They played several games, including cornhole, spike ball and ladder toss.
Eta Epsilon
Mansfield University of Pennsylvania Members wrote thank-you cards to frontline workers at a hospital and created Easter cards for their patients. The entire chapter enjoyed giving back to local heroes. The thank-you cards were a small token of sisters’
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appreciation for those who have been keeping the community safe.
[15] Eta Iota
Valdosta State University These sisters sold strawberries to raise money for breast cancer education and awareness. For two weeks in February, members accepted orders from the community. Those who did not want to order strawberries could opt to donate $22, the price of a flat, to the cause.
Eta Lambda
College of Charleston This chapter stayed busy with sisterhood events all semester. From yoga and a barre workout class led by a member to catered breakfasts, pop-up shop events and blow dry salon parties, sisters felt the Zeta Love. Most events limited attendance, but everyone cherished the time they got to spend together.
Eta Mu
Augusta University Working with the Criminal Justice Club on campus, these sisters combined stress relief and service. The event had snacks and a piñata that sisters could hit to de-stress. For the service aspect of the project, sisters collected and helped package hygiene items to donate to released detainees.
Eta Theta
Missouri University of Science and Technology Think Pink® trivia night was a big hit among community members. Anyone in the area could sign up with a team of three people. Categories included university facts, sports, breast cancer facts, Disney and more. Local businesses contributed prizes for the trivia winners, and ZTA won the ultimate prize of spreading important information and raising money for the ZTA Foundation.
Eta Sigma
The University of North Carolina at Pembroke Bid Day had two parts for this chapter. The virtual component took place earlier in the semester, but the in-person part had to wait. Members and new members finally got to meet in person in March. They took pictures in front of the “Ice, Ice, Bid Day” banner and celebrated.
Eta Upsilon
Missouri Southern State University Stress relief was a focal point for this chapter’s events. During a sunset picnic, members took advantage of the pleasant weather, shared chocolate-covered strawberries and painted canvases. At another event, sisters met at a local coffee shop and let go of negativity by writing down their stressors on plates, putting them in plastic bags and smashing them on the ground.
Theta Gamma
Texas A&M University This chapter won Songfest, an annual philanthropy event Chi Omega hosts, for the first time in six years. This year, the Zetas chose to base their dance routine on the 2016 film “Nerve.” Sisters poured their hearts into the performance, and the prize money went toward breast cancer education and awareness.
[16] Theta Delta
Salisbury University These members got creative at a paint night sisterhood event. For many new members, this was the first time they got to participate in the in-person fun. This activity had a great turnout, and all attendees enjoyed it.
Theta Theta
Arkansas Tech University During International Women’s Week, members wrote letters of encouragement to other ZTA chapters in Arkansas. This was a fun way not only to congratulate and promote strong women but also to bond with other chapters. The chapter also contributed to the donation of over 35,400 cans of food to a local food pantry.
Theta Zeta
Wofford College Despite pandemic-related challenges, the love members shared allowed them to make unforgettable memories. Sisters planted flowers in the community, hosted a campus-wide cornhole tournament and served dinner to the community at the chapter’s first “Mac & Z’s” event. Members’ favorite event was a food truck picnic on the lawn.
[17] Theta Sigma
Winthrop University At this chapter’s last sisterhood event of the year, sisters tie-dyed socks outside, ate ice pops and enjoyed each other’s company. The event doubled as a senior sendoff, and all the seniors were able to
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Theta Tau
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Delta Delta Delta members joined Zetas for a Zoom call to talk about diversity, equity and inclusion. The presentation included information about current events and time for members to have genuine conversations. This event created space to connect with Panhellenic sisters.
[18] Theta Phi
California State University, Fullerton Sisters got to know each other better through coffee dates and a “Cross the Line” sisterhood event where everyone on Zoom would turn off their cameras until they heard a prompt they identified with. Members also became pen pals with members of Lambda Kappa Chapter (Appalachian State University) to learn about what sisters on the other side of the country were experiencing.
[19] Theta Psi
Texas State University Alpha Delta Pi members invited Zetas over to their house for some social time. Both organizations provided snacks and decorations, and members went to mingle in shifts with other sorority women. It was a great opportunity to spend time with another NPC group to learn more about each other.
[20] Theta Chi
George Mason University In place of a formal, these members created an outdoor photo wall where members could wear masks and take photos with a small group and get a bag filled with ZTA goodies. Sixty members dropped by the photo wall throughout the day. Setting up the event this way allowed members to interact safely with sisters they hadn’t seen recently.
[21] Iota Alpha
Robert Morris University In April, the chapter had its first-ever “ZTA Spring Carnival,” which took the place of its usual formal. Sisters celebrated the end of the semester with dancing, pictures and games. Seniors passed out superlatives to each sister, exchanged letters and gifted their old ZTA apparel to underclassmen in what was the perfect end to the semester.
Iota Gamma
The College of New Jersey A unique virtual sisterhood this chapter had was “Zetas’ Funniest Home Videos.” Sisters sent in old home videos of themselves. Members watched them all together as a chapter and voted on which one they thought was the overall funniest. The event was an entertaining way for the chapter to stay connected.
Iota Delta
Towson University A former chapter advisor joined members for a Zoom call to educate them about the importance of a professional resume. The event was both empowering and inspirational as members learned what kind of opportunities they could find with a great resume.
[22] Iota Theta
Georgia Institute of Technology The chapter received three awards from the College Panhellenic. The Chapter of Excellence Award recognizes incredible overall performance; the Community Impact Award goes to an organization that has shown significant fundraising efforts for its national philanthropy and members’ overall dedication to community service; and the External Relations Award is given to a group that has demonstrated dedication to improving relationships with external constituents.
Iota Iota
Fairleigh Dickinson University Sisters found ways to bond through virtual activities. The chapter held a PowerPoint night where members volunteered to give presentations on unique topics, like “What Dogs I Think My Sisters Would Own.” The activity was so entertaining and popular that the chapter planned two more for later in
Iota Nu
Susquehanna University Members planned a fun virtual Bid Day event in addition to a Barbie®-themed in-person event once everyone moved back to campus. For the in-person event, sisters wore masks, had their temperatures taken before arrival, used sanitizer wipes to clean props and came at designated times to keep attendance numbers within university guidelines.
[23] Iota Omicron
Lander University To put the “fun” in “fundraiser,” this chapter hosted its first-ever “Zlime the Zetas” tabling event. Students could either pay $3 for one bucket of slime or $5 for two buckets of slime to pour on members’ heads. Sisters were excited to be back on campus and interacting with other students to raise money.
Iota Pi
University of Dayton To engage with ZTA’s Nine Key Values, a chapter officer created an online form asking members to type in a sister’s name, pick what Key Value that sister represents most, and include a short explanation about how that sister lives the selected Key Value. The activity gave new members the opportunity to learn about the Nine Key Values and allowed everyone to share Zeta Love.
Iota Sigma
Old Dominion University This chapter’s Pink Week included virtual and in-person components. Sisters shared a virtual bingo board to raise money, passed out pink ribbons, made a “kiss away cancer” sign and held a virtual “Slime a Zeta” event. All of the in-person events took place on or near campus in the first week of March.
Iota Chi
Middle Tennessee State University For their Galentine’s Day sisterhood, members relived their elementary school days by writing each other notes of encouragement and placing them in each sister’s paper bag. This activity reinforced sisterhood, and the notes served as a reminder that their sisters have their backs.
[24] Iota Psi
Rochester Institute of Technology The school recognized this chapter as the second runner-up out of 26 chapters for the President’s Cup at the Greek Awards. The university assesses chapters throughout the academic year to evaluate how well chapters fulfill the fraternity/sorority life standards.
Iota Omega
University of Maryland Seniors met up with Washington, D.C. Chapter alumnae for a picnic at the National Mall. Attendees ate pizza, snacks and strawberries and enjoyed the spring weather. There were also plenty of games to play. The soon-to-be graduates enjoyed getting a taste of the alumnae world before summer.
[25] Kappa Zeta
Clemson University To close out the year, the chapter held an event at a local soap shop. Members enjoyed spending time together and learning about the soap-making process and got to take home their handmade soaps. Their creations will serve as reminders of sisterhood.
Kappa Theta
California State University, San Bernardino Members combined their art skills and love of food at the chapter’s “Paint and Picnic” event. Before planning the details, chapter leaders made sure sisters were comfortable with the idea. Attendees met at a park, stayed six feet apart and brought blankets and food.
Kappa Lambda
University of Wisconsin Oshkosh These members participated in an activity where sisters wrote their names in the center of a flower printout and in each of the five petals, a unique aspect of their identities. After everyone filled in their petals, participants discussed 22
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the “contents” of their flowers with the people next to them. By the end, members understood each other better.
[26] Kappa Omicron
Merrimack College Even though the chapter’s usual social events couldn’t take place, these sisters made the most of their semester. Instead of the annual formal, chapter members took pictures in front of a photo wall while wearing masks and social distancing. Sisters also competed in interfraternal sports activities with the three other organizations on campus.
Kappa Pi
University of South Carolina Aiken In one of the most entertaining events during this chapter’s “Royal Madness” philanthropy week, a few members from each fraternity and sorority volunteered to answer questions the chapter compiled. Audience members voted on each person’s answer, and the person with the lowest number of votes was eliminated. Sisters posed with the winner at the end.
Kappa Sigma
University of South Florida As a part of this chapter’s “Sunshine Week,” members decorated tote bags. Participants received the bags and painting supplies via contactless delivery and gathered via Zoom to decorate them. The event added sunshine to these members’ week, and the reusable tote bags help sisters reduce waste.
Kappa Chi
Shorter University Sisters loved attending the chapter’s silent disco. The Sisterhood Chair rented headphones that could all be synced, making it possible for all sisters to listen to the same song. It was a great prefinals stress reliever and many members said it was the best sisterhood ever.
Lambda Delta
Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi At the university’s annual philanthropy day, “Big Event,” collegians and student organizations work together and serve the community. Some members did yard work at a local high school, and others packaged more than 1,000 meals for the homeless shelter.
[27] Lambda Epsilon
Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis This chapter held a Big Man on Campus event in the university’s campus center in April to raise money for philanthropy. One representative from each fraternity competed in the dance competition. These members also made time for sisterhood with a spa day and a Topgolf outing.
Lambda Kappa
Appalachian State University The Executive Committee and graduating members were able to gather in person for the first time all semester to commemorate the past four years of friendship and Zeta Love at the senior sendoff. The rest of the chapter, alumnae and chapter advisors attended via Zoom.
Lambda Mu
University of South Carolina Beaufort Watching the season finale of “The Bachelor” is a tradition for this chapter. The event allowed new members to experience a sisterhood event, gave initiated sisters a chance to get to know the new members better and helped everyone de-stress after midterms.
Lambda Xi
Seton Hall University As part of this chapter’s virtual Think Pink® Week, members used an application that translates the number of steps they take into donations for ZTA’s philanthropy. Sisters had a great time watching the leaderboard and competing with sisters. It was an innovative way to raise money and connect.
[28] Lambda Pi
Reinhardt University This chapter was able to have a safe spring formal. Each sister was allowed to invite one other person to the event to dance the night away. Even though it was small, they had a wonderful time celebrating all of their accomplishments and ending the year on a high note.
Lambda Sigma
The University of Texas at Tyler In April, these sisters attended “Crownchella” in a classroom on campus. The event took place at the last chapter meeting so members could see each other before the summer. Everyone enjoyed food from Chipotle and music, and there was a poster of each member for sisters to sign like a yearbook.
FINDING
the balance
By Sarah Hale, Contributing Writer
Finding the balance between a collegiate chapter officer position and schoolwork along with other responsibilities can be a challenge. Sophomore Kendall Miller (Zeta Upsilon Chapter, Edinboro University of Pennsylvania) manages to balance not one, but three officer positions in addition to her rigorous class schedule as a nursing major and working as a server between 30 and 40 hours per week. Last fall, Zeta Upsilon elected Kendall as its Vice President I/Coordinator of Committees, which oversees Program Council. Not long after the election process, it became clear to her chapter’s leadership that many of this Mighty Chapter’s officers would need to hold at least two roles to provide effective programming for the chapter, which operated in a hybrid format for the 2020-2021 school year.
To meet this goal, Kendall combined and consolidated Program Council positions to ensure officers covered all responsibilities. “It was hard at the beginning,” Kendall said. “I had to sit down with the chapter President and discuss the best way to do this.” As part of the restructure, Kendall also took on her previous role as Director of Philanthropy, Service & Fundraising as well as the Inclusion Chair position.
Kendall’s claim to preparedness fame lies in her proactive planning. During the PC retreat before the spring semester, she made a point to lead
Program Council officers in laying out events, complete with tentative dates, for the entire semester. Kendall also keeps a detailed personal planner to organize academic and leadership deadlines.
Another key component of her success has been keeping the lines of communication open. Kendall fosters consistent and efficient communication by ensuring all officers are comfortable sharing any new ideas with the group. “I am excited to take those skills into my career after graduation,” she said.
Kendall attributes her leadership inspiration to the former VP I, Hannah Kightlinger. “Hannah was always positive and encouraging, particularly toward members interested in leadership,” Kendall shared. “I wanted to give new members what Hannah gave me.” While seeing new members and the officers grow drives Kendall as VP I, her passion still lies in philanthropy and creating innovative ways to raise money for breast cancer education and awareness. “In the fall semester, we held a T-shirt sale and raised $1,800 just from a virtual bingo board,” she said. “I felt a great sense of accomplishment from seeing the events through from start to finish.” On top of the events she plans and helps coordinate in those two positions, Kendall has also already organized successful virtual events as Inclusion Chair, such as a game involving learning more about remarkable women who didn’t receive the credit they deserved in their time. Ever the planner, Kendall is already looking forward to expanding on that programming and helping make in-person chapter events possible.
[1] Kendall Miller, VP I, Director of Philanthropy, Service & Fundraising, and Inclusion Chair for Zeta Upsilon [2] Kendall (left) and the former VP I, Hannah (right), at fall Bid Day 2019 [3] Kendall and other chapter officers at the school’s spring 2021 Greek Life Awards ceremony
PERSONAL INTERACTION RETURNING TO SURVIVOR RECOGNITION IN FALL
By Christy Marx Barber, Staff Writer
Hugs. Stories. Relationships. Celebrations. These are a few of Zeta Tau Alpha’s favorite aspects of partnering with the American Cancer Society® and serving as the National Survivor Ambassador of its Making Strides Against Breast Cancer® events.
Since joining in partnership with ACS in 2015, collegiate and alumnae members have enhanced survivor recognition at events across the country. In the five years before the COVID-19 pandemic, approximately 33,200 Zetas volunteered nearly 146,700 hours at Making Strides events.
In 2020, many event organizers honored survivors at socially distanced events rather than the walks. While video and drive-by events and online survivor coffee chats tried their best to replace inperson events, they lacked the personal connections that volunteers crave.
The great news is those connections will be back in 2021. ZTA and the American Cancer Society will team up this coming fall to honor survivors at about 140 MSABC walks across the country.
“We’ve all missed the human touch element,” said ZTA’s MSABC Volunteer Coordinator Committee Chair Shari Fisher (Delta Nu Chapter, The University of New Orleans). “The story, the hug, listening to survivors tell where they are in their journey. That’s the positive, emotional connection we were all craving.” With the return of this in-person outreach partnership, Zetas can once again participate at an event near them. The experience is unique in every community, and each team of volunteers collaborates to create a memorable event to honor survivors.
ZTA members can find the MSABC event nearest to them on the ZTA website at zetataualpha.org/ MSABCevents. Alumnae interested in serving as local coordinators for an MSABC event should contact ztafoundation@zetataualpha.org to indicate the walks that interest them.
“Local coordinators have the opportunity to rally local alumnae and to engage with the community. Serving as the ZTA point person with ACS, they help define the survivor experience for the local event,” said Midwest/West Area Coordinator Michelle Macartney (Delta Delta Chapter, Baldwin Wallace University). “I can’t wait to greet breast cancer survivors and help them celebrate.” Alumnae who live in an area where a walk occurs but ZTA does not have a collegiate or alumnae chapter can help represent ZTA in their communities and potentially meet new sisters by volunteering to participate in the survivor experience. They can wear Think Pink® shirts and hand out the bright pink ribbons to survivors and their supporters. Members should use the email address above if they would like to volunteer at the walk in their area.
After participating in past Making Strides events, ZTA volunteers have felt a strong sense of satisfaction in seeing their hard work come together and in meeting the survivors.
Northeast Area Coordinator Janet Jaeckle Bronocco (Gamma Tau Chapter, Texas Tech University), a 15-year breast cancer survivor, loves the sisterhood experience of both survivors and Zetas. “It’s so heartwarming to see all the ZTA volunteers show up at the crack of dawn with smiles on their faces ready to jump in and help,” she said. “I love that enthusiasm.” Survivors frequently comment about the cheery greetings from ZTA collegians and comforting support
of alumnae volunteers. South Area Coordinator Erin Helbling Chadwick (Zeta Xi Chapter, Georgia Southern University) recalls an event where she met a one-year survivor who had come to the event alone. Erin enlisted the help of four eager ZTA collegians to accompany the survivor on her walk. “I am uncertain if I will ever be able to articulate the impact this memory has had on me,” Erin said. “The morning concluded with this survivor embracing me with a huge hug and tears in our eyes.” That personal connection between survivors and ZTA volunteers and the outreach to the community are the greatest rewards of ZTA service on those early October mornings. “Knowing we have a small part in someone’s story is what defines us as women with empathy,” Shari said. “This disease affects so many people we know. If we can change one person’s mind about early detection or celebrate one survivor, we’ve done what we set out to do.” Every ZTA volunteer who honors survivors and represents the organization’s commitment to breast cancer education and awareness plays an important role in Making Strides. “Thanks to the amazing volunteers who truly have made this experience happen since 2015,” said ZTA Foundation Vice President of Philanthropy Sherry Server Tilley. “They showcase our marvelous partnership. We hope more of our sisters will embrace the renewed opportunity to engage in their community and live out the Foundation’s mission of making a difference through service to others.”
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[1] The Bloomington-Normal, IL Chapter receives its charter at Illinois Zeta Day 1975.
[2] Women connect the links of sisterhood at Florida Zeta Day 1987.
[3] Members pause for a picture at Theta-Iota Province Convention (before Zeta Day became a tradition in many places) in Omaha, Nebraska, in 1927.
[4] Attendees chat by the pool at South Carolina Zeta Day 1963.
[5] Sisters sport stylish hats during a meal at North Carolina Zeta Day 1968. [6] Members at Virginia Zeta Day 2018 receive their Order of the Shield certificates.
[7] Themis published a recap of the first official Zeta Day at Jamestown, Virginia, in 1907.
[8] Lancaster, PA Chapter members pose at Pennsylvania/West Virginia Zeta Day 2018.
[9] Sisters show off New Mexico Zeta Day 2015 awards.
[10] Nelly Galloway Shearer, then-District President and later National President, a collegiate chapter President and a 50-year White Violet member enjoy coffee hour at Tennessee Zeta Day 1969.
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.
Member, Fraternity Communications Association and National Panhellenic Conference © 2021 Zeta Tau Alpha Fraternity No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of Zeta Tau Alpha.
1036 S. Rangeline Road Carmel, IN 46032 zetataualpha.org
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