Themis—Winter 2018

of Zeta Tau Alpha | Winter 2018

A PLACE WHERE YOU

Belong

Scholarship List · Winter 2018 · 1 Zeta Day 2018 | ZTA Foundation Scholarship Recipients | 100 Years of Psi Chapter

Winter 2018 Vol. 116 No. 2 (ISSN 1529-6709; USPS 627-120) 1036 S. Rangeline Rd. Carmel, IN 46032 (317) 872–0540 zetataualpha@zetataualpha.org

STAFF Editor Ellen Crawford Graphic Designer Kahlie Cannon Director of Communication Ashley Sherman Contributors Kristel Aranas, Delta Alpha Christy Marx Barber, Alpha Psi Susan Beard, Delta Psi Becky Koltonski Gleason, Delta Delta Patti Cords Levitte, Beta Phi Hailey Rogers, Delta Psi Katie Peoples Zamulinsky, Theta Xi Carlie Zarkowski, Gamma Omicron

NATIONAL COUNCIL National President Carolyn Hof Carpenter, Theta Tau Vice President Collegiate I Raechel Bennett Biggs, Delta Gamma Vice President Collegiate II Lynn Compton Chapman, Alpha Nu Vice President Collegiate III Shannon Ferguson, Alpha Psi Vice President Alumnae I Dana Brasington Atkinson, Delta Omicron Vice President Alumnae II Alicia Patten Williams, Theta Psi Secretary-Treasurer Franlyna Barrett Charles, Zeta Iota National Panhellenic Conference Delegate Laura Ladewig Mauro, Theta Psi Extension Director Dolores Gonzales Gastineau, Theta Omega

2 · THEMIS · Scholarship List

FROM WHERE I SIT

By Ellie Parker, Epsilon Chapter, University of Arkansas The definition of the word “belong” is “to be a member or part of something.” To me, to belong means to feel a deep, genuine connection to something or someone.

When joining a sorority, many collegiate women want to join an organization where they fit in, but in Zeta Tau Alpha, I have found a place where I truly belong.

I had the honor of serving as President of Epsilon Chapter (University of Arkansas), which has 450 collegiate members. When I first joined ZTA, I was skeptical about if I would find my home away from home or if I would be a lost fish in this huge sea of women. At first, meeting my pledge class was hard, but after many meetings and sisterhood events, I knew I fit in here. It was not until my junior year, when I was elected VP II/New Member Coordinator, that I felt I truly belonged. From that point, it was my mission to ensure each new member found her forever home in Zeta Tau Alpha.

This past recruitment, we chose a word for each day to drive our conversations with potential new members. Our recruitment team chose words, with the help of the chapter, that embodied the spirit of Epsilon Chapter: fearless, passion, timeless and vulnerable. We are fearless college women who are here to change the world through our words and actions. We know purpose fuels passion, and we chose this word for our philanthropy round to show that each one of our members has a passion for breast cancer education and awareness. We also know that as things fade, our time in ZTA will stay with us forever, creating a timeless sisterhood and a legacy we’ll leave behind. Lastly, each member of our chapter has chosen to be vulnerable at some point with someone else in the chapter, which has created a bond that runs deeper than friendship.

In our chapter, we realize that in order to fully feel a sense of belonging, we must give a piece of ourselves to one of our sisters and fully let our guards down.

The women of Epsilon Chapter are more than the big white house on North Oakland Avenue. We are more than the women who Think Pink®. We are more than pretty, smart and funny. We are a group of ambitious women who are committed, day in and day out, to making the world a better place. That is what being a Zeta is all about—banding together to accomplish things the world tells us we can’t. When a woman joins ZTA, she isn’t just joining some sorority; she is joining a group of women who will always have her back and lift her up. From where I sit, I see leaders, world changers, dreamers and creators that empower each other each day to become the best version of themselves.

After all, a true sense of belonging comes from love, the greatest of all things.

WINTER 2018

THEMIS

ZTA FRATERNITY HOUSING CORPORATION President Julia Marthaler Hill, Eta Rho Vice President Martha Gorum Jackson, Epsilon Treasurer Lacy Schneider O’Connor, Theta Omicron Secretary Anne Petro Tamulaitis, Alpha Kappa

page 28

Directors at Large Susan Beard, Delta Psi Kristine Fleming, Eta Theta Susan Brown Long, Gamma Iota Karen Farmer Mills, Gamma Iota Terri Dew Millsap, Alpha Nu Julie Ward Moxley, Theta Sigma Leah Fields Ozment, Nu Casey Guimbellot Pash, Iota Chi Christine Flora Walter, Gamma Chi Karla Lundgren Wheeler, Psi

page 34

FEATURES

PROFILES

CHAPTER NEWS

COVER STORY A place where you belong Learn how different-sized chapters that scored among the top 20 in the area of Belonging on the collegiate chapter assessment develop a strong sisterhood, and pick up some tips to use in your own chapter.

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Never alone in ZTA When Bailee Bryant (Zeta Psi Chapter) arrived at Jacksonville State University, she and her family were concerned she’d have trouble finding a place where she fit in. Then she found ZTA. 18

Collegiate Chapter News 10

ZTA is always home Just like sisterhood, the importance of having a sense of belonging in ZTA doesn’t go away after graduation.

See what alumnae chapters are doing to make sure members always have a home away from home. 34

Closing the gender gap Alumna Katie Walthall Mehnert (Theta Kappa Chapter) applies ZTA values to her work as the founder and CEO of Pink Petro™, a global social learning community for women in the energy industry.

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“Belonging means you feel included and safe.”

Alumnae Chapter News 19

IN THIS ISSUE Fraternity News

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National Panhellenic Conference News

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Convention 2018

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Directors Carolyn Hof Carpenter, Theta Tau Franlyna Barrett Charles, Zeta Iota Becky Hainsworth Kirwan, Gamma Beta

ZTA FOUNDATION President Becky Hainsworth Kirwan, Gamma Beta Vice President of Development Cynthia Byars Courtney, Gamma Tau Vice President of Philanthropy Sherry Server Tilley, Zeta Alpha

Zeta Day 2018

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Certificate of Merit and White Violet Lists

Vice President of Scholarship Catherine G. Slaughter, Alpha Eta

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Vice President of Special Events Dinah Jackson Laughery, Beta Gamma

ZTA Foundation Scholarship Recipients 44

Secretary/Treasurer Kay Dill Kreutzer, Eta Rho

IN EVERY ISSUE From Where I Sit

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Things We Zeta Love

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Fraternity Housing Corporation News

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Points of Pride

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Archives 54

Directors Carolyn Hof Carpenter, Theta Tau Franlyna Barrett Charles, Zeta Iota Julia Marthaler Hill, Eta Rho Nora Nell Hardy Jackson, Beta Gamma Lacy Schneider O’Connor, Theta Omicron

Scholarship List · Winter 2018 · 3

THINGS WE I HEARD THE CALL

ZETA LOVE

THE THEME OF THIS ISSUE

By Marilyn Rowell, Alpha Nu Chapter, Birmingham-Southern College

What does belonging mean and why is it so important to Zeta Tau Alpha? Belonging is a sense of connection that goes beyond friendship. Women who think of sisterhood in this way describe their sorority sisters as “family” and their sorority as their “home away from home.” The connection is based on a sense of shared values and a feeling of being appreciated and accepted despite one’s flaws.

My collegiate chapter made me feel as if I belonged in ZTA and accepted me with open arms when I joined my sophomore year. They saw the potential in me and helped me grow as an individual and a leader. These relationships led to me hearing the call of ZTA and wanting to continue serving the organization that has given so much to me. As a current Leadership Consultant, I strive to challenge, motivate and support each collegian I work with. The things that inspired me to become a Leadership Consultant are the things that keep me going.

Belonging is identified as one of the Five Areas of Sisterhood in the assessment all ZTA collegians take each spring. The data shows that the higher members score in the area of Belonging, the stronger their sisterhood is. Want to improve this area within your collegiate or alumnae chapter? Check out the stories on pages 28 and 34 to see what your sisters are doing.

RIBBON LAUNCH To kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month, ZTA sent a Think Pink® ribbon out of this world with a heliumfilled weather balloon. This photo was snapped at its highest point, around 93,000 feet above Earth. To watch the full video, head to bit.ly/RibboninSpace.

SEEN ON SOCIAL MEDIA

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“So blessed to have been able to go to Baltimore for ZTA Officer Leadership Academy this weekend! So excited for this next term with these amazing girls on EC #ZTAOLA”

“So unbelievably proud of our seniors who graduated today!!

We are so thankful for the impact that each of you has made on this chapter. Good luck to all of you! #itsnotjustfouryears #zetaisforever”

Iota Iota Chapter Fairleigh Dickinson University

Nu Chapter The University of Alabama photo by: Flourish Photography

AFTER THE STORMS

By Christy Marx Barber, Staff Writer Thankfully, none of ZTA’s chapter facilities suffered damage during Hurricane Irma in September. The storm did, however, rearrange schedules for some collegiate chapters by delaying recruitment, canceling fall breaks and extending the semester.

SOUTH CAROLINA Eta Lambda Chapter (College of Charleston) closed Sept. 8 and resumed classes Sept. 14. The college canceled its fall break and held classes on Saturday, Oct. 7 and Sunday, Oct. 15 to make up the four missed days.

FLORIDA The governor ordered all schools closed Sept. 8–11. Some campuses remained closed for a longer period due to downed trees and to allow students who had evacuated out of state to make arrangements to return.

Eta Chi Chapter (Francis Marion University) in Florence closed Sept. 8 and resumed classes Sept. 12. Recruitment was rescheduled for Sept. 29–Oct. 1.

Gamma Alpha Chapter (University of Miami) in Coral Gables resumed classes Sept. 25, meaning students missed 13 days. The school canceled fall break and extended the semester to Dec. 20, with finals taking place during classes Dec. 15–20.

Kappa Tau Chapter (Florida Gulf Coast University) in Fort Meyers resumed classes Sept. 20, meaning students missed eight days. The school extended the semester to Dec. 19, with finals Dec. 20–23.

Beta Gamma Chapter (Florida State University) in Tallahassee; Delta Beta Chapter (Florida Southern College) in Lakeland; Beta Psi Chapter (Stetson University) in Deland; and Eta Kappa Chapter (University of Central Florida) in Orlando all resumed classes on Sept. 18. Florida Southern’s recruitment was moved to Oct. 4–7 and Stetson’s to Oct. 4–8.

Gamma Iota Chapter (University of Florida) in Gainesville; Theta Iota Chapter (University of North Florida) in Jacksonville; and Kappa Sigma Chapter (University of South Florida) in Tampa all resumed classes on Sept. 14.

Iota Omicron Chapter (Lander University) in Greenwood and Kappa Beta Chapter (Presbyterian College) in Clinton both closed Sept. 11 and resumed classes the next day.

Presbyterian’s Bid Day was moved up a day to Sept. 10.

GEORGIA Zeta Xi Chapter (Georgia Southern University) in Statesboro closed Sept. 8 and resumed classes Sept. 18.

Omicron Chapter (Brenau University) in Gainesville closed at noon on Sept. 7. Transformers went out Sept. 12, but the cafeteria remained open on generators for students who had sheltered on campus. Power was restored Sept. 13, and classes resumed the next day.

Kappa Upsilon Chapter (Georgia College) in Milledgeville and Eta Iota Chapter (Valdosta State University) both closed on Sept. 9 and resumed classes Sept. 14.

Gamma Pi Chapter (The University of Georgia) in Athens closed Sept. 11–12 and most of the campus lost power for almost 24 hours. Classes resumed Sept. 13.

Kappa Chi Chapter (Shorter University) in Rome; Delta Lambda Chapter (Georgia State University) in Atlanta; Eta Mu Chapter (Augusta University); Iota Theta Chapter (Georgia Institute of Technology) in Atlanta; and Eta Alpha Chapter (Georgia Southwestern State University) in Americus all closed Sept. 11–12 and resumed classes Sept. 13.

HURRICANE HARVEY UPDATE Following the flooding of its townhouse caused by Hurricane Harvey in September, Gamma Omega Chapter (University of Houston) held its activities in alternate locations while the common areas were repaired. The chapter was able to move back into its townhouse the week of Nov. 10, in time to hold Initiation there.

“The stress from Hurricane Harvey took a toll on our chapter and sisterhood since we didn’t have our house,” Ritual Chairman Sydney Salinas said. “It’s made us a stronger chapter because we’ve been dealing with all this together. I honestly don’t think any of us could have done it without our sisters.”

Fraternity News · Winter 2018 · 5

100 YEARS OF PSI CHAPTER

By Patti Cords Levitte, Director of Archives & Historical Education Nearly 300 Zetas and guests gathered in Seattle from Sept. 29 to Oct. 1, 2017, to celebrate 100 years of Psi Chapter at the University of Washington. The planning for Psi’s Centennial Gala started more than two years earlier, with Fraternity Housing Corporation Director at Large and Psi Chapter alumna Karla Lundgren Wheeler volunteering to be the chairman of the event. Many other chapter sisters, including a former Leadership Consultant, a White Violet and a current collegian, also joined the Centennial Planning Committee. Together, the committee handled everything from the finances to social media and the event website, and their hard work certainly paid off.

On Friday, Sept. 29, Psi Chapter alumnae gathered at Kells Irish Restaurant in downtown Seattle. More than 100 Zetas attended and kicked off the weekend of celebrations. On the morning of Saturday, Sept. 30, alumnae and guests joined the collegiate chapter for the Founders’ Day Service at the Psi Chapter house. One of the highlights of the service was hearing more than 100 Zetas sing “Pride of Our Hearts,” which was written by a Psi Chapter member in 1922. Afterward, attendees enjoyed tours of the house and campus, with ZTA shuttle buses running throughout the day to account for Seattle’s notoriously difficult parking.

The Centennial Gala followed at 5 p.m. on Saturday at The Bell Harbor International Conference Center on the downtown Seattle waterfront. Sisters and guests from fourteen different states—some from as far away as New York and Virginia—attended the dinner and dance.

Initiates from the 1940s to today and even the UW mascot, Harry the Husky, came in their finest evening attire to celebrate Psi’s 100 years on campus. Guests enjoyed viewing a large historical display that covered every decade of Psi’s existence and featured a new historical scrapbook collection. The Psi Chapter History Committee, made up of many White Violets and led by Beverly Eckert 6 · THEMIS · Fraternity News

Meln, started the scrapbooks for the event more than four years ago. They captured all of Psi’s history in exacting detail, making this collection one of the most complete chapter histories in Zeta Tau Alpha. The scrapbooks also reflect a century of social and cultural history in the Pacific Northwest.

ZTA National President Carolyn Hof Carpenter and Vice President Collegiate III Shannon Ferguson both spoke about the dedication of the Seattle Zetas. Longtime chapter Mentor and former National SecretaryTreasurer Kay McCoy McKelvey attended and visited with scores of Psi Chapter women she worked with over the decades. ZTA Director of Archives & Historical Education, Patti Cords Levitte, also presented a short historical program that explained some of the wilder parts of Psi’s history, such as the chapter’s two different installation dates on the same weekend in 1917. Psi members then sang songs that have a special meaning for the chapter, and the evening ended with a dance party. On Sunday, Psi Chapter hosted a brunch in honor of Mrs. Carpenter and Mrs. Ferguson to cap off the weekend.

A multi-year effort to create a memorable weekend, complete with a commemorative “1898” votive designed by local company Glassybaby, paid off for all those who attended. Karla said she wanted to lead the event because it was the best way for her to say “thank you” to the chapter that laid the foundation for her experiences in ZTA. “I look at all of the opportunities I have been given, the projects I’ve worked on, the sisters and best friends that I could not imagine my life without,” Karla said, “and I wouldn’t have any of it had it not been for Psi Chapter.

This was my chance to give back and to give joy to the women who were a part of my story at the University of Washington.” The centennial celebration was proof that ZTA bonds last long after college, and members of Psi Chapter are looking forward to a bright second century.

ZTA TAKES ON NEW ROLE IN NPC

By Katie Peoples Zamulinsky, National Panhellenic Delegate Alternate III Each October, the Zeta Tau Alpha Panhellenic delegation attends the National Panhellenic Conference Annual Meeting. In 2017, it was held in Denver, Colorado, at the Westin Hotel. Representatives from each of the 26 member organizations that make up NPC were in attendance. In addition to its six delegation members, ZTA was also fortunate to have members of our ZTA NPC team at the meeting. This group of volunteers supports the work of ZTA’s NPC delegation by reviewing documents and serving as area advisors through the NPC College Panhellenics Committee.

Every other year, the NPC meeting takes on a more formal tone. At these meetings, much like at our own ZTA Convention, the NPC executive officers are installed into office. The 2017 meeting was one our delegation has been anticipating for many years as it officially kicked off the start of ZTA’s modern-day journey “in the chairs” of the NPC executive committee. Once every 52 years, a member of ZTA gets the opportunity to serve as Vice Chairman and then, subsequently, as Chairman of the National Panhellenic Conference.

During the final business meeting on Oct. 28, ZTA’s Malaea Nelms Seleski was installed as the Vice Chairman of the National Panhellenic Conference. Mrs. Seleski has dedicated close to two decades of service to NPC. She served the Fraternity as ZTA’s National Panhellenic Conference Delegate between 2000 and 2010 and as the Fraternity’s National Panhellenic Delegate Alternate I from 2010 to today. In addition to her ZTA delegation responsibilities, she has been a leader in the conference through her work with Release Figure Methodology,

academic and educational development initiatives, the budget and finances for the Conference, and strategic planning. Throughout her years of service, Mrs. Seleski has flawlessly balanced the needs of the greater Panhellenic community with those of Zeta Tau Alpha. She will serve as Vice Chairman of NPC through 2019, at which point she will be installed as the Conference Chairman.

After the installation, the 2017–2019 Chairman, Carole J. Jones (Alpha Omicron Pi), laid out what she sees as a time of opportunity and promise for NPC. She highlighted six trends in higher education that NPC member organizations will face in the coming years and challenged each group to embrace these trends and find new ways to define the sorority experience on college campuses for a new generation of students. The six trends include: financial stress facing college students and their families; an increase in diversity among the student body, particularly among the Latino population; continued use and reliance on technology; a changing definition of family; an increased focus on work/life balance; and the need for providing a personalized experience or “me” branding.

The landscape of higher education and sorority life is rapidly changing, but it remains full of opportunity. By virtue of holding the current Vice Chairmanship and through our future NPC Chairmanship, Zeta Tau Alpha is uniquely positioned to influence NPC in really exciting and innovative ways that not only uphold our Fraternity’s values, but also strengthen the position of the sorority experience on college campuses.

National Panhellenic Conference News · Winter 2018 · 7

Z E TA TAU A L P H A CONVENTION 2018

O R L A N D O, F L

Join your sisters for Convention 2018 at the Orlando Grande Lakes Hotel, June 26–July 1, 2018. Registration will be available in February on the ZTA website (zetataualpha.org) or by calling International Office at (317) 872–0540.

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Call for Nominations The Zeta Tau Alpha Nominating Committee is preparing a slate of qualified nominees to serve as members of National Council for the 2018–2020 biennium. The committee invites all members to provide input for this process. The election will take place at Convention 2018 in Orlando.

T H E F O L LO W I N G O F F I C E R S CO M P R I S E T H E S L AT E : • • • • • • • • •

National President Vice President Collegiate I Vice President Collegiate II Vice President Collegiate III Vice President Alumnae I Vice President Alumnae II Secretary-Treasurer Extension Director National Panhellenic Conference Delegate

NOMINEES MUST POSSESS THE F O L LO W I N G Q UA L I F I C AT I O N S : • Belief in sisterhood and a commitment to ZTA’s heritage

• Talent as an effective administrator, as well as an effective motivator

• Critical thinking skills, including the ability to define problems, evaluate solutions, establish priorities and make decisions • Availability to travel as needed, to communicate by phone and email daily, and to commit time to necessary administrative work

E AC H N O M I N AT I O N S H O U L D I N C LU D E : • An explanation of why the candidate would be well-suited for the office

• Pertinent ZTA information including: collegiate

chapter; alumnae chapter; collegiate and alumnae positions held, such as advisor, house corporation or association officer, Province President or District President, etc.

Zeta Tau Alpha members who wish to submit names to the committee should send their nominations by Feb. 1, 2018, to:

Pat Wooster-Jackson

Nominating Committee Chairman 6208 Hay Meadow Way Sedalia, CO 80135 patwj19@gmail.com

COLLEGIATE CHAPTER NEWS KAPPA The University of Texas at Austin

PHI Duke University

Kappa Chapter helped its new members feel even more at home by hosting several casual sisterhood events at the chapter house.

Together, they enjoyed Halloween movies, carved pumpkins and watched Miss America, which was especially exciting because a chapter sister competed as Miss Texas and placed in the top five.

Making time to have thoughtful conversations can be tough, which is why Phi Chapter created “Crown Chats,” a weekly conversation space. Each week, a sister shares her personal experience with a meaningful topic like mental health, body image or friendship. Each get-together provides a safe place for small groups of Zetas to discuss these important topics while growing their understanding of each others’ lives and challenges.

MU Drury University Shortly after Little Sisters met their Big Sisters, the women of Mu Chapter engaged in a friendly competition in the style of “The Newlywed Game” to see who knew the most about one another.

Members had fun guessing how their sisters filled out questionnaires and picking which women best fit with different questions.

UPSILON University of California, Berkeley This year, Upsilon Chapter hosted a brand-new Think Pink® event: the “Zeta Music Awards” (or ZMAs).

Various student groups competed by creating music videos that attendees viewed and voted on during the event. The ZMAs were a big hit on campus.

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During their Founders’ Day celebration with the Birmingham, AL Alumnae Chapter, the members of this chapter participated in a service project for a local women’s shelter.

Sisters created “birthday in a box” kits, which included cake mix and icing, candles and other goodies that will allow the women staying in the shelter to throw birthday parties for their children.

ALPHA UPSILON Oklahoma State University Football and philanthropy go hand in hand at Oklahoma State. This year, sisters from Alpha Upsilon Chapter hosted their first-ever Think Pink®

ALPHA PSI University of Missouri Members of this chapter pampered themselves during “Zeta Spa Alpha” at the chapter house. Sisters created lip balms, face masks and bath bombs using simple ingredients such as coconut oil, brown sugar and honey.

BETA DELTA Miami University

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Select sisters from Beta Delta Chapter attended Miami University’s leadership development event for recently-initiated fraternity and sorority members. During the weekend, the women developed their personal leadership initiatives and discussed ways to improve campus issues. They returned to campus with lots of great ideas to share with the rest of the chapter.

BETA THETA Franklin College During homecoming weekend at Franklin College, the women of Beta Theta Chapter hosted breakfast for the alumnae who returned to campus.

The collegians provided juices and doughnuts, and the alumnae brought

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ALPHA NU Birmingham-Southern College

flag football tournament. Fraternities and sororities competed for first place while supporting breast cancer education and awareness.

dishes to share. Afterward, sisters of all ages enjoyed tailgating together.

BETA IOTA Centenary College of Louisiana

cookies and milk. Everyone had a great time wrapping up recruitment practice and getting ready to meet their potential new members.

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BETA OMEGA Union University

Beta Iota Chapter supported ZTA’s philanthropy with its “Pink the Rink” event. The chapter partnered with the Louisiana Mudbugs (a local hockey team), as well as ZTA alumnae from the area, to sell tickets, raffle off prizes and raise breast cancer awareness.

BETA LAMBDA University of Louisville

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Beta Omega Chapter had a whole weekend of sisterhood with its new members, which sounds like a whole lot of fun. Friday night, sisters got together at the chapter house for a dance party. On Saturday, everyone got in touch with nature at a local attraction called Safari Park. They wrapped up the weekend with pancakes and pajamas at the weekly chapter meeting.

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Beta Lambda Chapter members got into a little healthy competition at this year’s sisterhood retreat. Teams went head-to-head in the “Zeta Olympics” by competing in an egg toss, a doughnut-on-a-string eating contest and other quick, fun activities.

At the end of the day, everyone got a gold medal in sisterhood.

GAMMA BETA Washington College The women of Gamma Beta Chapter got the entire community involved during their Pink Out Week. They hosted a Zumba class, pinked out a soccer game, sold baked goods and teamed up with the local chapter of Theta Chi Fraternity to host a barbecue lunch in front of the college president’s house.

BETA UPSILON Kansas State University When these Zetas arrived on campus for the fall semester, they decided to “think in terms of all mankind.”

Chapter sisters filled backpacks with school supplies and encouraging notes for children at the local Boys and Girls Club.

GAMMA GAMMA The University of Texas at El Paso Gamma Gamma Chapter got in the Halloween spirit with a “spooktacular” sisterhood event.

Each woman had the chance to carve a pumpkin, watch Halloween movies and dress in a creative costume with her “Strawberry Sister,” someone in the chapter she was randomly paired with for the week.

BETA PHI Michigan State University After the women of this chapter prepared for recruitment, they made time for sisterhood by hosting a “Zlumber Party.” Sisters posed for pictures in their pajamas and enjoyed 4

GAMMA EPSILON Pennsylvania State University Sisters celebrated autumn with a visit to the Pennsylvania State Arboretum. They enjoyed all the best fall-themed activities, like picking pumpkins, drinking apple cider and doing a fun photo shoot.

GAMMA PI The University of Georgia

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An annual hit, this chapter’s “Pink Picnic” boasted about 600 guests from campus and the Athens community.

Attendees enjoyed barbecue chicken, macaroni and cheese, live music and a cornhole tournament on the chapter house lawn. The women loved hosting family, friends and community members for this classically fun philanthropy event.

GAMMA KAPPA James Madison University The seniors and new members of Gamma Kappa Chapter got together for pizza and board games so they could get to know one another better.

During the event, the seniors also answered questions and shared advice they wish they had gotten when they were new members.

GAMMA MU University of Nebraska at Omaha

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The women of Gamma Mu Chapter took a break from school work to enjoy some favorite fall activities at a local pumpkin patch. Highlights included taking a hayride, going through a haunted house and eating caramel apples.

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5 Collegiate Chapter News · Winter 2018 · 11

GAMMA XI Indiana University of Pennsylvania

GAMMA PSI Texas Christian University

DELTA GAMMA High Point University

Because Gamma Xi Chapter’s annual spaghetti dinner has grown in popularity, the chapter had to move this year’s event to the largest room in the campus student union building.

Sisters served all-you-can-eat spaghetti, meatballs, salad and dessert and raffled off gift baskets to raise money for the ZTA Foundation.

After participating in a Bright Pink® workshop, the sisters of Gamma Psi Chapter wanted to be more proactive about leading healthy lives. To help with that, two local doctors visited the chapter to answer anonymouslysubmitted health questions. The women loved learning more about taking care of themselves.

The week after fall break, Delta Gamma Chapter members got together to decorate masks for their upcoming masquerade-themed formal. This was a great way for sisters to hang out after time apart, show off their creative sides and get excited about formal.

GAMMA TAU Texas Tech University

GAMMA OMEGA University of Houston

Collegiate women face a myriad of challenges each day, which is why it’s important to look out for and educate one another on important topics.

To that end, Gamma Tau Chapter asked Roxann St. Clair, a local public speaker, to talk to the chapter about alcohol awareness and sexual assault.

The women of Gamma Omega Chapter tested their problem-solving skills at a local attraction called The Escape Room. Sisters uncovered clues to figure out the puzzle and solve the mystery, which proved to be a great bonding experience.

GAMMA CHI Indiana State University The women of Gamma Chi Chapter partnered with the local chapter of Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity to host “Big for a Day.” Kids from the local Big Brothers Big Sisters program met up with members from both chapters at the Sig Ep house for yard games and pizza.

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DELTA ALPHA California State University, Long Beach For their ‘80s-inspired roller rink sisterhood, the members of Delta Alpha Chapter dressed in bright neon clothing and had a blast skating around together. Sisters munched on In-N-Out Burger, a California favorite, and got to know their new members better shortly after Bid Day.

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DELTA DELTA Baldwin Wallace University It’s always great to learn a new skill while spending time with members of the campus community. Women from this chapter participated in “Punch and Brunch,” a program put on by the Collegiate Panhellenic Council. Sisters from various organizations learned self-defense moves and enjoyed a delicious meal together.

DELTA ETA West Texas A&M University Delta Eta Chapter sisters got in the Halloween spirit with an evening at the bowling alley on campus. Chapter members arrived in their best and most creative costumes and bowled the night away.

DELTA ZETA Sam Houston State University During the week leading up to Initiation, this chapter helped everyone relax with a spa sisterhood event. Members enjoyed sweet snacks, sugar scrubs and face masks in the chapter house and ended the night with karaoke and lots of laughs.

DELTA KAPPA Louisiana State University The women of Delta Kappa Chapter invited the families of their new members to the chapter house for brunch to welcome everyone and share more about the Fraternity. The women showed their recruitment video and members of the Executive Committee spoke about life in ZTA. DELTA IOTA Clarion University of Pennsylvania

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The women of this chapter really got their community into the pink spirit with a Think Pink® tailgate leading up to their Pink Out football game.

Members set up a table to distribute pink ribbons and free hot dogs and collected monetary donations.

DELTA NU The University of New Orleans The Saturday before Big/Little Sister pairs were revealed, all the new Bigs booked a room on campus to craft together. They built off each other’s enthusiasm and creative ideas to make cute, meaningful items for their future Littles.

DELTA LAMBDA Georgia State University This semester, Delta Lambda Chapter’s sisterhood events offered something for everyone. The women enjoyed movie nights, tie-dying T-shirts, and customizing treats at caramel apple and macaroni and cheese bars.

DELTA PI Eastern New Mexico University As the weather turned colder, the members of Delta Pi Chapter held a winter clothing drive on campus. Those who donated gloves, scarves and warm

coats received a cup of hot chocolate.

The women collected an entire box of items for local children.

DELTA SIGMA Lamar University

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This chapter’s first sisterhood event with its new members was a smash hit. Zetas showed off their singing skills and shared some laughs while getting to know each other over rounds of karaoke.

DELTA UPSILON West Virginia Wesleyan College

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Zetas piled into cars bright and early on a Saturday morning to head to a state park to enjoy the autumn weather. Sisters enjoyed hiking, exploring a nearby small town and, of course, spending time together in a beautiful setting.

DELTA CHI William Jewell College

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Members from Delta Chi Chapter volunteered at Making Strides Against Breast Cancer® Kansas City. Though it was chilly, these sisters were all set in their matching hats, which one sister thoughtfully knit by hand. Sisterhood doesn’t get much more close knit than that.

DELTA PSI Samford University The sisters of Delta Psi Chapter celebrated some of the most important women in their lives during Moms Weekend. Attendees enjoyed a movie night, dinner in the chapter room, a silent auction that benefited ZTA’s philanthropy, a Samford football game and a yoga session.

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ZETA ALPHA University of Evansville Why did the Zeta go to the dentist?

To get a new crown! Sisters and their fathers enjoyed jokes like this during Zeta Alpha Chapter’s “dad joke” competition in the chapter suite.

Attendees of Dads Day also played a game of trivia where father/daughter pairs tested how well they know each other.

Collegiate Chapter News · Winter 2018 · 13

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ZETA BETA Thiel College Sisters from this chapter were paired with alumnae who were interested in getting to know current collegians.

Pairs kept in touch by phone and social media, and it was a great success for alumnae engagement. Alumnae came to chapter events, passed down old ZTA T-shirts and shared memories from their college days.

ZETA LAMBDA Rider University

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To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Zeta Lambda Chapter, the current collegians hosted a luncheon for chapter alumnae. During the event, collegians gave tours of the chapter house and enjoyed hearing stories about the connection their alumnae sisters had to ZTA, even after many years have passed.

ZETA NU Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania

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This chapter celebrated Founders’ Day with a sisterhood trip to a scenic lookout point. Everyone enjoyed the beautiful weather as well as a picnic and photo shoot.

ZETA OMICRON Arkansas State University

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These sisters revamped their Think Pink® events this year and found a new favorite with “Pie a Zeta.”

Students paid $2 for a plate of whipped cream to pie whichever Zeta they chose. What a delicious mess!

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ZETA PSI Jacksonville State University

The night before Initiation, sisters from this chapter got excited for the big day during a pajama sisterhood.

A hot chocolate bar and make-yourown-trail-mix bar topped off the night perfectly.

ETA ZETA Elon University Recently, a group of sisters from Eta Zeta Chapter attended a barre workout class together, then met

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up with others from the chapter for brunch at a restaurant near campus.

This flexible event was a success because members were able to attend just the exercise class, just the meal or both, depending on their interests.

ETA IOTA Valdosta State University Sisters look out for one another, but it’s also important for women to know how to defend themselves if needed.

To help with that, the women of this chapter got a private lesson in selfdefense from the owner of a local boxing gym.

ETA KAPPA University of Central Florida The new members from every sorority and fraternity on University of Central Florida’s campus got involved in ZTA’s philanthropy by participating in Eta Kappa Chapter’s “Lip Sync” event. Leading up to the big show, sisters collected donations for the ZTA Foundation at their “Kiss Away Cancer” table and during a catered barbecue meal.

ETA LAMBDA College of Charleston The women of this chapter enjoyed a unique and informative sisterhood event this semester. Sisters learned how to use essential oils and scents to relieve stress and help with sleep and eating patterns.

ETA MU Augusta University This chapter’s sisterhood retreat kicked off with a movie night on campus. The next day, sisters toured the local zoo and took pictures of their favorite animals.

ETA RHO The University of North Alabama

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During this year’s homecoming events, Eta Rho Chapter took home the top prize for earning the most points out of every campus organization that competed.

Highlights included a first-place win

THETA THETA Arkansas Tech University

in the women’s division window painting contest and a secondplace win in the women’s division of The University of North Alabama’s Step Show.

ETA THETA Missouri University of Science and Technology

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Things got cuddly during this chapter’s newest philanthropy event, “Think Pink®, Think Puppies.” Six puppies and two dogs, all adoptable from the Tri-County Humane Shelter, caught the attention of many students and helped spread breast cancer education and awareness. The event was a big success, and three of the pups were adopted afterward!

ETA PI Wright State University

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These sisters held their second annual volleyball tournament, during which 24 teams competed for a Think Pink® trophy. The event also had cornhole as well as life-size versions of Jenga and Connect Four.

ETA TAU The University of North Carolina at Charlotte This chapter hosted a LinkedIn workshop after a chapter meeting to prepare sisters for the working world after college. Members learned about the basics of creating a resume, reviewed the elements of a LinkedIn profile and took professional headshot pictures.

THETA DELTA Salisbury University When it comes to staying healthy, taking care of mental health is just as important as physical health.

Representatives from Salisbury University’s health services team joined the sisters of Theta Delta Chapter during a meeting to present information on a number of topics, including dealing with stress and managing time.

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It’s always great for sisters to get outside and do something active together. In addition to creating softball, soccer and flag football intramural teams that members could join, the women had a poolside sisterhood, attended a yoga class and enjoyed hanging out in hammocks around campus.

THETA KAPPA University of Missouri-St. Louis

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The new members of this chapter held their retreat at a local park, complete with a picnic lunch. To get to know one another better, they played a game where they tossed around a beach ball that had different questions written on it for everyone to answer.

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THETA TAU The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill During the fall semester, the women of Theta Tau Chapter focused on teamoriented sisterhood events to help cultivate new friendships. Sisters worked in groups to solve clues in escape rooms, raced through a haunted corn maze as a team and participated in a group fitness class together.

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THETA PSI Texas State University Sisters were treated to a surprise carnival sisterhood in the backyard of Theta Psi Chapter’s house. Members snacked on snow cones and popcorn, took pictures in a photo booth and relived fond childhood memories.

IOTA ALPHA Robert Morris University

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To combat busy schedules, sisters from this chapter implemented a new biweekly program called “Strawberry Sisters.” Each woman draws a name and plans something fun to do with that sister. From attending hockey games to going on shopping trips, this program has been great for connecting new sisters and building relationships.

Collegiate Chapter News · Winter 2018 · 15

THETA OMEGA California State Polytechnic University, Pomona This chapter dedicated its annual recruitment retreat to strengthening its sisterhood. After reconnecting as a chapter, these sisters couldn’t wait to show potential new members their genuine love for one another.

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IOTA DELTA Towson University

Think Pink® Week leading up to this chapter’s “Pink Up the Pace 5K” was extremely successful. Sisters raised money for the ZTA Foundation by hosting various events like a cotton candy stand, a lemonade stand and a Chipotle restaurant fundraiser night.

IOTA THETA Georgia Institute of Technology The collegians and alumnae of Iota Theta Chapter got together on Founders’ Day for a fun afternoon at a yoga studio near campus. Later, the chapter’s Panhellenic Delegate planned a mixer at the studio for the new members of every NPC chapter on campus to gather and get to know one another in a relaxed environment.

IOTA NU Susquehanna University Sisters across badges came together for a murder mystery Panhellenic

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IOTA PI University of Dayton

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Sisters from this chapter welcomed the fall season with a visit to a local shop, apple orchard and petting zoo.

Members selected pumpkins to bring home and enjoyed the time to bond before the semester got busy.

IOTA RHO East Carolina University The women of Iota Rho Chapter had a great time visiting a local attraction that offered laser tag, inflatables and snacks. Sisters were encouraged to spend the day with their newlyformed ZTA families, so everyone had a chance to share some laughs and get to know one another better.

IOTA PSI Rochester Institute of Technology Fall festivities are especially fun when sisters come together. The women of Iota Psi Chapter shared a meal before hopping on a haunted hayride.

Afterward, sisters munched on doughnuts and apple cider.

IOTA OMEGA University of Maryland

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To celebrate seniors and help make their last year special, this chapter created a “Senior Week.” Each day had a different activity, such as a senior dinner at the house and fun team-building activities between new members and seniors. The week ended with brunch and a photo shoot.

KAPPA THETA California State University, San Bernardino During their philanthropy week, the members of this chapter raised awareness of breast cancer and collected funds for the ZTA Foundation. Events included a 5K race, “Pie a Zeta” and a soccer tournament for the fraternities on campus.

KAPPA XI Stockton University This chapter had a very successful Pink Out Week with a variety of activities, including a special candlelight vigil for the community honoring all those who lost their battles with breast cancer. The week ended with a Pink Out 5K. KAPPA UPSILON Georgia College

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This chapter hosted a joint sisterhood picnic with the women of Alpha Omicron Pi Fraternity. About 50

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sisterhood. During the event, members from different organizations paired up to visit each chapter’s house, play games, get clues and solve the crime. It was a great way to connect Panhellenic women on campus, and everyone had a great time.

members sat on blankets and enjoyed listening to music, eating delicious food and playing with a few members’ dogs.

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KAPPA PHI Christopher Newport University

A chapter retreat at The Virginia Living Museum included animals, laughs, food and love. Sisters got to learn about various animals and even pet a few. Everyone had tons of fun exploring the museum and spending time with each other.

KAPPA CHI Shorter University During their sisterhood retreat at one member’s house, the women of Kappa Chi Chapter bonded and shared some laughs over s’mores. Members also played games and talked about ways they can support sisters in need of a little extra love.

KAPPA PSI Kutztown University This chapter combined sisterhood and service with a “clothing swap.” For this event, sisters brought five items of clothing they no longer wanted or needed. Then, each member got a chance to go through everything and pick one item she wanted to keep. All the leftover pieces were donated to a local homeless shelter for women.

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KAPPA OMEGA Saint Louis University

LAMBDA KAPPA Appalachian State University

The sophomores of Kappa Omega Chapter invited the new member class to a simple yet fun sisterhood event one night. Sisters dressed in pajamas and snacked on doughnuts while sharing laughs and making new friends.

New members from this chapter kicked off their sisterhood and got to know one another better during a hike and a sleepover. The next day, they went to a local high-ropes course where they learned to work together in order to complete a challenging obstacle course.

LAMBDA GAMMA The University of Texas at San Antonio It’s never too early to start developing the future leaders of ZTA. During new member meetings, Lambda Gamma Chapter’s Executive Committee and Program Council officers shared information and answered questions about their positions so their new sisters could start thinking about the roles they might take on down the road.

LAMBDA IOTA Vanderbilt University Sisters from this chapter learned about balancing all aspects of collegiate life with a program about work/life balance. A speaker and trained therapist from the Center for Student Wellbeing talked about balance and staying true to one’s values. The program was beneficial to all and increased awareness about mental health.

LAMBDA LAMBDA Kennesaw State University This chapter hosted a new philanthropy event this year called “Capture the Cure.” This capturethe-flag tournament had men’s and women’s brackets where groups played against one another until there was a final winning team in each division. This was a fun way to get the campus community involved in raising money for the ZTA Foundation.

LAMBDA XI Seton Hall University After the summer break, these sisters reconnected and spent a day at their local zoo. They learned about endangered turtles, interacted with stingrays, fed giraffes and got tips on various things they could do to make a difference in saving wildlife.

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25 Collegiate Chapter News · Winter 2018 · 17

Never alone in ZTA

by Kristel Aranas, Contributing Writer

Like most incoming freshmen at Jacksonville State University, Bailee Bryant was concerned about making friends. Having been diagnosed with cerebral palsy at 13 months old, she knew that finding people who wouldn’t tip toe around her and her disability might be difficult. Her family had concerns, too. She would be moving an hour and a half away from her home and the friends she had known since kindergarten.

However, she looked forward to meeting new people and experiencing new things, so she went through sorority recruitment.

Bailee remembers being worried that other sorority women would not be able to see beyond “the girl in the walker” to get to know the upbeat and outgoing potential new member she was. When she reached Zeta Tau Alpha’s Zeta Psi Chapter, however, she found women who saw her for who she is and helped her feel like she fit in. Bailee fondly remembers how the women of her chapter not only genuinely wanted to get to know her, but also understood that her cerebral palsy wasn’t the only defining thing about her. She felt like she found sisters who could push her to be the best version of herself.

This all came to a head on Bid Day, when all the new members at Jacksonville State run to their new homes. As soon as Bailee received her bid, beyond her excitement and happiness, she became stressed about having to run out onto the field with her walker. At that moment, however, one of her pledge sisters said, “Bailee, we have this. You’re going to lead the way and we are all going to walk at your pace, hand in hand.”

She realizes now that they easily could have left her.

They didn’t have to walk with her, but they did so because they wanted to make her feel like she was valued and that she mattered. Bailee didn’t just find new friends, she found where she belonged.

Since then, Bailee’s sisters haven’t stopped showing her she belongs, and they continue to embrace her differences. “When my sweet sisters look at me, I know they do not see someone who is disabled,” Bailee said.

“They just see someone who is able in a different way.”

Bailee’s story truly embodies the spirit of belonging in ZTA. For chapters struggling in this area, she offered this advice: “The root of belonging is acceptance. No two sisters are the same. So, in order to embody that sense of belonging, we should continue to strive to love on our sisters a little more than we did the day before and make sure we aren’t just loving on those in our immediate circles.” After all, The Creed of Zeta Tau Alpha directs us “to be true to ourselves, and to those within and without our circle.”

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ALUMNAE CHAPTER NEWS MOBILE Alabama

brought items to donate to hurricane relief efforts in Houston.

On the ninth day of each month, members from this chapter met up to “Dine on the Nines” for brunch, lunch or dinner. During the summer months, collegians who were home from school were invited to attend as well. June was particularly fun as sisters enjoyed dinner and Mobile’s monthly ArtWalk event.

NORTHWEST ARKANSAS Networking is just one of the great perks of being a Zeta. To help collegians capitalize on this asset, these alumnae hosted an evening gathering for the current members of Epsilon Chapter (University of Arkansas) to receive one-on-one help in making connections and applying for jobs.

NORTHEAST ALABAMA These alumnae, along with collegians from Zeta Psi Chapter (Jacksonville State University), volunteered at a 5K for Venecia’s Foundation in Piedmont, Alabama.

The nonprofit provides gas cards and care bags for patients in the community who are going through chemo and radiation. Venecia’s Foundation is close to the hearts of alumnae from this chapter as it was founded by Venecia Butler, a special initiate who joined ZTA a few months before her passing in 2015.

LONG BEACH California

PHOENIX Arizona

The North Orange County, CA Chapter’s bunco night, which welcomed beginners and experts, was a group favorite. After the newbies were taught the basics, sisters played, laughed and ate together. The chapter even had a stuffed animal that got passed to those who got baby buncos.

Alumnae from this chapter took part in a wide array of events over the summer months. From an olive oil and balsamic tasting party to fun dinners and an outdoor concert, the Zetas’ social calendars were full of sisterhood. They even got together with all the Southern California alumnae for a multi-chapter dinner.

NORTH ORANGE COUNTY California

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Alumnae in Phoenix kicked off the academic year with sisterhood and service at their “Welcome Back” brunch. Everyone met at the chapter President’s home to catch up and discuss the upcoming year. They also

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SACRAMENTO California

To kick off the new programming year, this chapter held “Breakfast at ZTA,” an evening brunch inspired by the movie “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.”

Members dined on brunch foods and brought hundreds of toiletry donations for local shelters.

Attendees were on-theme in their black dresses, pearls, turquoise and, of course, crowns.

WESTSIDE-SANTA MONICA California

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Annual chapter traditions always make for a great time, and this chapter’s summer picnic was no different. At the end of summer, alumnae kicked off the ZTA year with a casual, fun, potluck-style picnic.

The event was open to chapter members’ friends, family and pets.

WINNIPEG Manitoba, Canada Chapter members and their guests tried something new together— an olive oil tasting. The shop owners treated attendees to an evening of appetizers, punch and a variety of olive oils and balsamic vinegars. Chapter members are looking forward to similar events in the future.

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GREATER HARTFORD Connecticut

their local Making Strides Against Breast Cancer® walk.

It’s no secret that one of the fastest ways to make friends is over a table of delicious treats. The Greater Hartford, CT Chapter welcomed its new members with a series of brunches and lunches to help everyone get to know each other.

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4 CENTRAL FLORIDA This newly-reorganized alumnae chapter took full advantage of activities unique to the area this fall.

Members sailed the Dora Canal to experience local nature and wildlife, toured a museum with 17th-century carriages, played bunco and more.

The variety of events helped keep members of all ages and interests engaged with the chapter.

PALM BEACH COUNTY AND GREATER FORT LAUDERDALE Florida

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These two chapters celebrated the bonds of sisterhood together at a Sunday brunch for Founders’ Day. The chapters made a special effort to reach out to White Violet sisters, which resulted in a sweet presentation by the nine White Violets in attendance.

They shared their most memorable stories from their fifty or more years of experience with ZTA. POLK COUNTY Florida

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This chapter hosted a “School Spirit” happy hour event where each alumna wore something representing her alma mater or favorite collegiate team. The theme made for an instant icebreaker between new and existing members, even if a rivalry was involved.

SOUTH BREVARD Florida Between Founders’ Day and Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Zetas stay busy during October. This year, members of the South Brevard, FL Chapter celebrated ZTA’s founding with a luncheon at a favorite riverfront restaurant called Yellow Dog Café. They also volunteered at

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TAMPA Florida

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Last spring, alumnae in Tampa finished the academic year strong with their “Sister Celebration.” They met at a local restaurant to share sisterhood, recognize the incoming and outgoing Executive Committee, and honor their Certificate of Merit recipients and ZTA Foundation Major Donors. They also revealed “Alumnae Lite,” a summer programming schedule with fewer lunch gatherings, a celebration under the Strawberry Moon on June 9, a book club, and a trip with families to the Museum of Science and Industry.

AUGUSTA Georgia

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Spending Founders’ Day with sisters of all ages is always a good idea. This chapter hosted collegians from Eta Mu Chapter (Augusta University) for desserts and lemonade. Everyone received a bingo card with activities in the squares like “find an alumna who did not graduate from Augusta University” or “find a sister who doesn’t like strawberries.” This made for a great way to break the ice.

COBB COUNTY Georgia Member of the Cobb County, GA Chapter experienced the haunted history of Marietta, Georgia, on their walking tour. They saw the most haunted building in town, which has been featured on several television shows. After surviving the tour, alumnae shared dinner together on Marietta Square.

GAINESVILLE Georgia This fall, the women of the Gainesville, GA Chapter focused on supporting their community through multiple service projects. Members donated clothing to a nonprofit organization that helps homeless women and children and volunteered at the

Paint Gwinnett Pink 5K and Making Strides Against Breast Cancer® walk to promote breast cancer awareness.

MACON Georgia A new trend has popped up in cities across the nation, and our sisters in Macon decided to join in. In September, they painted rocks with motivational phrases to promote breast cancer awareness and hid them around the area at hospitals, doctor’s offices and chemo treatment centers for others to find.

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SAVANNAH Georgia

The Savannah, GA Chapter decided to center its programming year around a theme: “No matter where you roam, ZTA is home.” To that end, the chapter’s kickoff event included a map on which members could indicate where their ZTA journey has taken them—from college to today. Each woman also received a “passport” to be stamped at every ZTA event she attends, including Convention 2018. Sisters with more than three stamps will win a prize at the end of the year.

STATESBORO Georgia This year, alumnae in Statesboro are focusing their service efforts on five types of people: youth, military, breast cancer patients, the underserved and senior citizens.

With programming based around

each category, they will surely reach “those within and without our circle.”

VALDOSTA Georgia You never know what you’ll learn about a sister when you start playing icebreaker games. Valdosta alumnae warmed up to each other with sisterhood bingo at an event and discovered that two of the women in attendance were charter members of Eta Iota Chapter (Valdosta State University).

10 HAWAII This year, sisters got out and hiked with their families. They followed a 1.6-mile trail to Manoa Falls on Oahu and were rewarded with views of a 150-foot waterfall. Afterward, they fired up the grill and enjoyed time together at Waimanalo Beach.

CHICAGO NORTHWEST SUBURBAN Illinois Zetas got to know each other better at this chapter’s Founders’ Day celebration. One member opened up her home for the event and alumnae broke into small groups to brainstorm things they all had in common, which they then shared with the larger group.

CHICAGO WEST SUBURBAN Illinois With their busy schedules, families, work and the distance between where they live, the women of the Chicago West Suburban, IL Chapter

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can sometimes find it hard to meet for evening events. To help make sisterhood more accessible, the chapter created a “Lunch Bunch” group for Zetas to meet once a month to make time for sisterhood.

ST. LOUIS METRO-EAST Illinois Alumnae in the St. Louis Metro-East, IL Chapter decided to get fancy with their kickoff brunch this year. They met at Cher Gutzler’s Butterfly Patio in Troy, Illinois, to share stories and taste the chef’s creations.

FT. WAYNE Indiana For the Ft. Wayne, IN Chapter, new member recruitment starts before local collegians graduate. Each August, the chapter hosts a mixer for collegians to mingle with alumnae before returning to their schools. This helps create relationships across the generations that last throughout the year and after graduation. This year, they enjoyed a chocolate tasting at DeBrand Fine Chocolates.

DES MOINES Iowa This chapter honored our Founders this October by committing to service. They unofficially adopted a local food pantry as a way to give back to their community and all brought donations to their Founders’ Day celebration.

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IOWA CITY Iowa

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Alumnae can’t go wrong with attending a collegiate service event. In October, Iowa City sisters participated in Alpha Omicron Chapter’s 5K at The University of Iowa before heading to brunch together.

A Leadership Consultant who was in town and the District President even joined in the fun.

GREATER NEW ORLEANS Louisiana 12

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With five Crown Connections groups, there’s something for every alumna in NOLA. Festi-Zetas, Book Club, Creative Zetas, Young Alumnae and ZTA Tots each host fun events throughout the year. For example, the Festi-Zetas attended a community event that benefited the local SPCA, and the ZTA Tots group visited the recentlyrenovated Audubon Park playground with their little ones.

SHREVEPORT Louisiana

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An icy new Think Pink® partnership had this chapter feeling anything but cold. Zetas gathered for a Pink Out night with the Mudbugs hockey team. Sisters distributed more than 3,000 Think Pink ribbons to fans, and a mammogram bus outside gave tours and shared more information with the community.

SALISBURY Maryland

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Sisters of this chapter come from a wide geographic area and love having time to share sisterhood together. Recently, members had the chance to come together in service at two local Making Strides Against Breast Cancer® walks.

SILVER SPRING Maryland This chapter enjoyed summer evenings of sisterhood. In addition to its annual “Berry Bucks Auction,” which supported the ZTA Foundation, sisters enjoyed part of a summer concert series.

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BAY STATE AND SOUTHERN NEW ENGLAND Massachusetts and Rhode Island Sisters from these two chapters often work on Zeta Day plans together, so they wanted a chance to get to know one another outside of that annual event. To do so, they visited a local farm and had fun picking pumpkins and drinking apple cider. Women from both chapters look forward to another joint event in the future.

DETROIT METROPOLITAN Michigan Members of this chapter said “so long, summer” with a relaxing sisterhood event. The women gathered at a local hot spot, nibbled on cheese and chocolate treats, and discussed plans for upcoming chapter events.

GREATER GRAND RAPIDS Michigan Service runs deeps for these alumnae sisters. The chapter regularly volunteered at Kids Food Basket, an organization that packs sack suppers for elementary school students. The sacks were delivered to schools the following day for the students to take home and eat that night.

GREATER LANSING Michigan These alumnae joined Beta Phi Chapter (Michigan State University) to support survivors at the local Making Strides Against Breast Cancer® walk.

Sisters provided a listening ear for survivors to share their stories, made cards of encouragement, and created a place for survivors to feel honored and supported throughout the day.

TWIN CITIES Minnesota This chapter kicked off the academic year with an event at a local business that samples and sells gourmet oils and vinegars, including fun flavors like strawberry/basil and chocolate/ orange. It was a great chance to invite Zetas who are new to the area to meet new sisters and for longtime chapter members to reconnect.

GREATER OXFORD Mississippi

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Founders’ Day for this chapter had a philanthropic focus. After watching a video on the Founders, sisters prepped for a Pink Out football game by attaching pink ribbon pins to pink bead necklaces.

JACKSON Mississippi Sisters from this chapter gathered at a local restaurant where a fellow alumna is the Executive Chef. It was a great opportunity to relax, catch up and support a sister.

GREATER KANSAS CITY Missouri Sisters from the Greater Kansas City, MO Chapter explored the magic of the handwritten note by composing letters to alumnae chapters that were affected by the recent hurricanes. They also wrote letters to local veterans for Veterans Day. The chapter plans to continue this program at every event throughout the year.

ST. LOUIS Missouri This chapter’s new Crown Connections groups helped reach sisters in different areas of St. Louis.

Four locations were set for sisters to meet up, have dinner and get to know those who live in their part of town.

TRI-STATE OF JOPLIN Missouri

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This chapter got their members’ families involved with a trip to a local zoo. Everyone walked around together, rode the zoo train and went to eat afterward. It was a great way to wrap up a fun day of getting know one another.

LINCOLN Nebraska Sisters celebrated Zeta Tau Alpha history at this chapter’s fall kickoff party. One member brought a 1927 photo of the first class of Beta Eta Chapter (University of NebraskaLincoln) as well as the 1928 charter for the first alumnae chapter in

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the area. A few sisters were able to identify women in the photo and share stories about them.

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SOUTHERN NEVADA This chapter came together in service by volunteering at a local food bank.

The facility relies on volunteers to support local neighborhoods, and 17 sisters helped before attending the chapter’s monthly Saturday brunch.

MERCER-BUCKS New Jersey

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From grilling out to enjoying a pizza party, the members of this chapter stayed busy this fall. Still, sisters found time to share a Founders’ Day brunch with Iota Gamma (The College of New Jersey) and Zeta Lambda (Rider University) chapters and also attend a celebration in honor of the 50th anniversary of Zeta Lambda Chapter.

17 SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY In October, sisters celebrated this chapter’s anniversary with two of its founding members. A smallbut-mighty group gathered for a fun evening of dinner, pumpkin decorating, sisterhood and memories.

ALBUQUERQUE New Mexico

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This chapter kicked off the fall season the right way: with a potluck dinner.

Sisters got to know one another better with a “Would You Rather” game and got excited about the programming year ahead.

EASTERN NEW MEXICO Sisters from this alumnae chapter gathered for Eastern New Mexico University’s homecoming tailgate.

Members came from all over to play cornhole and fly the Zeta Tau Alpha flag in preparation for the big game.

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NEW YORK CITY New York The women of the New York City, NY Chapter made a sweet escape into summer with a girls’ night out at Sugar Factory, where they indulged in a variety of eats and treats. Sisters munched on waffles and pancakes, burgers and old-fashioned sundaes.

Alumnae Chapter News · Winter 2018 · 23

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CLEVELAND-EAST Ohio

This chapter’s President welcomed sisters to her home this summer so they could plan the 2017–2018 calendar. Members enjoyed the opportunity to catch up and share anecdotes from their time apart.

For this chapter, service is sweet!

Several members got together to make scrumptious apple cider caramel candies using one sister’s special recipe. They filled more than 100 bags of caramels to sell to raise funds for the chapter’s ZTA Foundation scholarship.

BLUE RIDGE North Carolina

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This chapter is located in an area that is responsible for the majority of the apple production for North Carolina.

Naturally, sisters took advantage of their amazing apple options with a family-friendly day at an orchard for the third year in a row.

CHARLOTTE North Carolina

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Sisters from this chapter got punny with their theme for this year’s programming calendar: “Color Me Zeta.” Events included “Orange You Glad to be a Zeta” at a pumpkin patch, “Tickled Pink” with a Making Strides Against Breast Cancer® walk, and “Carolina Blue” at a Carolina Panthers tailgating event.

CINCINNATI Ohio This chapter held its Founders’ Day ceremony and first meeting of the year at Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum. The women took a tram tour of the grounds, which focused on local historical figures, unusual funerary art and beautiful scenery.

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everyone. It was a pleasant evening for sisters to come together.

ADA Oklahoma Members of the Ada, OK Chapter recently enjoyed East Central University’s homecoming parade, tailgate and football game together.

Sisters of all ages loved celebrating with each other.

COLUMBUS Ohio These sisters gathered at the Alpha Zeta Chapter house at The Ohio State University to bake cookies with collegians to celebrate the beginning of the school year. It was also a great way to show the chapter support and to remind collegians that ZTA doesn’t end after graduation.

TOLEDO Ohio

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This chapter took feedback from members to heart and hosted more social events outside of peoples’ homes. The very successful kickoff event was held in the private room of a popular breakfast spot. There, the District President conducted the White Violet ceremony for a member.

YOUNGSTOWN Ohio Alumnae sisters from this chapter joined the collegians of Zeta Gamma Chapter (Youngstown State University) for the Founders’ Day ceremony. Afterward, the collegiate Ritual Chairman hosted a reception for

OKLAHOMA CITY Oklahoma This chapter incorporated philanthropy into every meeting this fall and planned additional opportunities for sisters each month.

Sisters collected donations and volunteered time for several local charities, such as Youth Services for Oklahoma County, the local veterans hospital, the Regional Food Bank of OK and The Children’s Center Rehabilitation Hospital.

PORTLAND Oregon At their summer barbecue, the women of the Portland, OR Chapter got together to celebrate warm weather, good food and fantastic views of their city from the rooftop of one sister’s apartment building.

Members enjoyed sharing ZTA with their families.

LEHIGH VALLEY Pennsylvania This chapter scored a home run with its end-of-summer sisterhood event.

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23 Members attended a Lehigh Valley IronPigs minor league baseball game together and enjoyed the beautiful summer evening from the lawn.

PHILADELPHIA Pennsylvania

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Members of the Philadelphia, PA Chapter enjoyed a number of sisterhood events this fall while supporting community businesses.

Activities included a Founders’ Day dinner at a local hot spot and a day at a farm where members and their families picked pumpkins and indulged on fall treats.

Before a busy Breast Cancer Awareness Month set in, the women of this chapter spent an afternoon on a pontoon boat on Watauga Lake.

Members shared snacks and stories while enjoying the scenery and celebrating their sisterhood.

BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION Texas

GREATER GREENVILLE South Carolina With sisters spread out across a large geographic area, the Greater Greenville, SC Chapter hosted two recruitment events for double the fun. In one location, women enjoyed a luncheon of traditional southern cuisine. In another part of upstate South Carolina, sisters perused Zeta Tau Alpha memorabilia and shared a delicious dinner.

MEMPHIS Tennessee

TRI-CITIES Tennessee

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To kick off the programming year and their “It’s a Small World” theme, the women of the Memphis, TN Chapter hosted a “Be Our Guest” party. Sisters enjoyed Disney-themed snacks and rotated through “bump stations” that covered different areas of chapter operations, such as membership information, upcoming events and service projects.

Founders’ Day is a time to celebrate Zeta Tau Alpha with sisters of all ages, so the women of this alumnae chapter joined the members of Theta Gamma Chapter (Texas A&M University) for lunch at the collegiate chapter house.

The women enjoyed mingling with the collegians and learning more about how they can support the chapter throughout the year.

DALLAS AREA NIGHT Texas To celebrate the fall season, this chapter hosted a “Pumpkins and Potluck” event. Members brought treats to share and decorated their pumpkins with supplies provided by the alumnae chapter. Some sisters carved their pumpkins while others used paint and stickers, and four women were declared the winners of the decorating contest in the end.

DENTON Texas ZTA collegians focus a lot of time and energy on academics, and the women of the Denton, TX Chapter

wanted to reward that hard work for their sisters. The alumnae hosted a “Scholarship Dinner” for local collegians with GPAs of 3.5 or higher.

EL PASO Texas Members in El Paso, Texas, which is located on the border of Mexico, celebrated Mexican heritage and culture with a “Fall Fiesta,” complete with authentic food and decor.

Sisters also enjoyed playing Loteria, a popular game that is similar to bingo but uses images on a deck of cards rather than numbers.

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LUBBOCK Texas

Alumnae sisters celebrated Halloween with their families and the collegians of Gamma Tau Chapter (Texas Tech University) with a pumpkin painting event in the collegiate chapter’s lodge. Attendees enjoyed decorating their pumpkins and snacking on festive treats while mingling with sisters of all ages.

MIDLAND AND ODESSA Texas Members of these two alumnae chapters got together for one big Founders’ Day celebration. Sisters gathered at a local restaurant to reflect on their ZTA experiences and the legacy the Founders left behind.

WILLIAMSON COUNTY Texas Current and prospective members of the Williamson County, TX Alumnae Chapter News · Winter 2018 · 25

Chapter enjoyed a presentation by a professional sommelier. Afterward, sisters enjoyed catching up and discussing chapter plans for the programming year ahead.

coffee at a local shop to attending a group cooking class. Members look forward to these events each month.

SALT LAKE CITY Utah

The women of the Richmond, VA Chapter chose “Around the World with ZTA” as their theme for this year’s chapter programming.

Throughout the academic year, gatherings and activities will focus on different countries. They kicked things off with an event at a local Irish restaurant.

During their recruitment party, the women of the Salt Lake City, UT Chapter enjoyed a bunco tournament.

Because players were constantly changing partners and moving to different tables, attendees got a chance to mingle with new sisters throughout the evening. The Zetas with the most buncos, wins and losses received prizes.

FREDERICKSBURG Virginia

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For the Fredericksburg, VA Chapter, the first Thursday of every month is known as “Themis Thursday.” On these occasions, sisters enjoy a wide variety of activities, from grabbing

26 · THEMIS · Alumnae Chapter News

RICHMOND Virginia

SEATTLE Washington

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WESTERN FAIRFAX Virginia The women of this chapter kicked off the academic year with a “Zeta Spa Alpha” event. Members created their own relaxing bath salts and moisturizing foot scrubs by filling miniature mason jars and adding lavender or peppermint aromatherapy oils.

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27 WASHINGTON, D.C. Members of the Washington, D.C. Chapter enjoyed the great outdoors with multiple sisterhood events.

Activities included a picnic with furry friends in a local park and a hike in Great Falls Park in Virginia.

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This chapter’s Active Zetas Crown Connection group likes to stay busy.

Recently, sisters met for a free hatha yoga class at the Seattle Art Museum’s Sculpture Park and enjoyed a fall walk around Green Lake before sharing a delicious brunch.

MILWAUKEE Wisconsin Over the summer, the women of this chapter got together for a river cruise. Members enjoyed catching up over snacks while taking in the sights of the Milwaukee River and celebrating sisterhood.

Closing gender gap the

by Carlie Zarkowski, Contributing Writer

With more than 20 years of experience in the energy industry, Katie Walthall Mehnert (Theta Kappa Chapter, University of Missouri-St. Louis) was well aware of the gender gap in her profession. After holding global leadership positions at BP and Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Katie founded Pink Petro™, a global social learning community for women in the field that focuses on professional development. According to Pink Petro’s website, the energy industry ranks second to last in gender diversity, with women making up just 22 percent of the workforce.

Rather than being discouraged by the lack of women in her field, Katie, who serves as CEO of the company, saw an opportunity for women to step up. Though the industry isn’t glamorous, power and energy are essential in today’s world, and Katie is passionate about making a difference in a field that she called “dangerous, difficult and challenging, but fascinating.”

Pink Petro aims to connect women to resources and industry leaders “to create a new future for energy that embraces inclusion, innovation and transparency,” which is the company’s mission. On a personal level, Katie hopes those in her young daughter’s generation will have equal opportunities to succeed, regardless of race, gender or ethnic background.

JOURNEY TO SISTERHOOD Katie became a member of Zeta Tau Alpha in an unconventional way. While she was a full-time student at Louisiana State University, she participated in a yearlong exchange program at University of Missouri-St. Louis during her junior year. There, she was approached by members of ZTA and invited to join. With her desire to always try something different, she accepted. Joining ZTA not only helped her get involved at her new school, but it also gave her an instant community of friends and opened the door for a lifetime of love, support and sisterhood.

After graduating from LSU and living back in St. Louis for a few years, Katie moved to Texas, where she joined the

Houston, TX Alumnae Association and became actively involved in the alumnae world. Within a year of moving to the area, she was diagnosed with cervical cancer, lost her job and faced a family tragedy. With everything that was going on, Katie was able to lean on ZTA, which “felt like home.” Her sisters made her feel like she wasn’t alone during that difficult time, and she is still able to rely on them today.

LOVE, THE GREATEST OF ALL THINGS “The Creed is not only a big part of our sisterhood, but it is a big part of our lives,” Katie said. She recently saw the power of Zeta Love once again when the floods from Hurricane Harvey destroyed her house and cars and displaced Pink Petro. Amid the hardship, her sisters from across the country, especially those in Houston and St. Louis, came through. Even now, as Katie and her family work to rebuild their lives, Zetas continue to shower the Mehnert family with love and donations.

Despite all the challenges and obstacles, Katie manages to stay true to her values and live by The Creed. In her professional life, she strives to “think in terms of all mankind and our service in the world” as she works to help women advance in her field.

28 · THEMIS · Feature

A PL ACE WHERE YOU

By Becky Koltonski Gleason, Director of Education & Curriculum Design, and Ellen Crawford, Editor

If you asked 100 Zetas across the country what sisterhood means to them, you would get 100 different answers. You would hear powerful stories of sisters supporting each other through success and loss, sisters who found lifelong friends and even sisters building each other up through accountability.

Starting in 2014, ZTA partnered with Dyad Strategies, an assessment and research firm, to discover how to define sisterhood. From that research, we found that sisterhood can be categorized into Five Sisterhood Areas: Shared Social Experiences, Support & Encouragement, Belonging, Accountability and Common Purpose. Since first creating the assessment, ZTA administered the survey another two times as part of the ZTA Membership Survey to see how sisterhood plays a role in all parts of the ZTA experience.

From that, we learned that Belonging is hands-down the most important part of sisterhood.

Belonging is particularly important because of how it correlates to the ZTA experience. Belonging is the most

predictive of the other four areas of sisterhood, meaning the higher Belonging is, the higher the other four areas are. At the same time, the higher Belonging is, the more satisfied and committed to ZTA members are.

Belonging is defined as a sense of connection that goes beyond friendship. Women who think of sisterhood in this way describe their sorority sisters as “family” and their sorority as their “home away from home.” The connection is based on a sense of shared values and a feeling of being appreciated and accepted despite one’s flaws.

The chapters highlighted here scored among the highest in Belonging in the 2017 survey. Officers from these chapters shared exactly what they’re doing to make it happen in areas like programming, recruitment and activities, so take notes and think about how you could use these ideas to inspire a closer sisterhood in your chapter. Not everything in ZTA is one-size-fits-all, so the chapters are organized by membership size.

Feature · Winter 2018 · 29

Small CH APT E RS Members don’t automatically get a sense of belonging just by joining a chapter. To create that feeling, Allie McConnell, VP II/New Member Coordinator for Omicron Chapter (Brenau University), said chapter members first need to know their sisters well. One way her chapter created deeper connections was through the Behind Happy Faces mental health program. Doing the activities together helped the women learn things about their sisters that nobody else knew. It was eye-opening to see what sisters have gone through and to love and accept one another.

what they’d done in the past. They hosted creative programs, including a popular sisterhood in a nearby town where they had a picnic lunch and did a haunted walking tour.

It’s important for chapters to recruit women who have the same values as ZTA and who have the desire to lead. Because of its small size, Omicron Chapter can plug many, if not all, members into leadership roles. Allie remembers upperclass members inspiring and challenging her to serve on Executive Committee as a freshman. In retention studies with Dyad Strategies, ZTA found that freshmen who serve on Program Council and sophomores and juniors who serve on Executive Committee or Program Council are more likely to stay in the chapter. Even larger chapters that cannot have everyone in an official position can utilize committees or support roles that allow members to be active contributors in the chapter and feel as though they belong right away.

Cecelia shared that it wasn’t just the responsibility of potential Big Sisters to welcome new members, but it was crucial for all members to reach out. For example, seniors took new members to dinner to get to know them better. Little things like this created ways for upperclassmen to become mentors and to guide new members.

As the outgoing VP I/Coordinator of Committees, Allie developed the chapter’s sense of belonging through programming. She helped her Program Council think about new sisterhood programs outside of 30 · THEMIS · Feature

For Cecelia Howard, former President and current VP II/New Member Coordinator of Alpha Chapter (Longwood University), sisterhood is about breaking barriers between each new member class. “We tried to take away the age and class standing,” she said. “We really emphasized the fact that we’re all sisters.”

Alpha Chapter opened the lines of communication and created intentional ways to gather input. For chapters of any size, ways to get feedback can vary and can include asking for input during chapter meetings, creating polls in the chapter’s Facebook group or inviting members to directly message the Director of Sisterhood. Officers should not be afraid to ask sisters for suggestions and advice as this gives a voice to members

who don’t hold leadership positions and uses their ideas and talents.

Once officers know what their members are looking to do, they should be sure to listen to them and follow through with ideas. Members get excited when they see their ideas come to life and are more likely to support and attend those programs.

Medium + Large C H A PT ER S Chapters don’t need to create formal sisterhood events all the time. Julia Farhat, President of Kappa Nu Chapter (Monmouth University), suggested chapters start small. “It doesn’t have to be a huge event,” she said. After developing a program, build on it. Sometimes just bringing sisters together can be enough, and members can form deeper bonds from there.

Prior to serving as President, Julia served as Risk Reduction & Education Chairman. She saw how looking out for others is part of sisterhood. If a member starts acting differently, reach out and see what may be wrong.

Don’t be afraid to be proactive when you notice those little things. Doing so can make members feel noticed and let them know they belong.

As the former VP III/Membership Chairman of Gamma Omicron Chapter (Central Michigan University), Paige Blythe found success in recruitment by incorporating the idea of belonging into recruitment workshops and rounds. Paige encouraged her members to simply be themselves. That way, potential new members (PNMs) would see what the chapter’s authentic sisterhood truly looked like. PNMs could see the close connections and genuine

love between the women of Gamma Omicron Chapter.

different grades together to get them talking to new sisters.

Paige set the stage for that success during the chapter’s sisterhood round by asking members to reflect on a personal story related to sisterhood that they could share with PNMs. Thinking about it ahead of time put members in the right mindset to share their stories and look for future sisters that would add to their sisterhood. They also invited a legacy member’s mom and her best friend, who are Zetas from Gamma Omicron Chapter, to share emotional stories during that round. “The potential new members were really able to see that we’re not just saying it lasts a lifetime—it really does,” Paige said.

Theta Zeta Chapter also prioritized events that got people interacting.

“Once a month we planned some kind of event so members had the opportunity to get to know other women,” Abbey said. This got them out of their comfort zones and out of their own friend groups. “We wanted to make sure everybody knew everybody.

That was one of our top priorities.”

As membership grows and chapters become bigger, it may seem harder to create a sense of belonging because all the women in the chapter may not interact with one another on a daily basis. Abbey Rambo, outgoing VP III/Membership Chairman of Theta Zeta Chapter (Wofford College), challenged her sisters to get to know other members by mixing them up as much as possible. When planning recruitment workshops that required members to work in groups, Abbey intentionally put people from

Abbey wanted to become VP III because her sisters were there for her when she had a medical scare her freshman year, and she wanted to make sure other women felt the same sense of belonging and security when they joined ZTA. “I really thought about our values in ZTA. I wanted to make sure [PNMs] didn’t just walk in and see pretty women and pretty decorations. I wanted them to know what ZTA really values,” she said. To do that, Abbey focused on sisterhood.

“When teaching recruitment workshops and having conversations with people, I really stressed the sisterhood element of our chapter.

This is more than just a sorority. This is a place that you will call home and these will be your sisters,” she said.

Feature · Winter 2018 · 31

W H AT D OE S B E L ON GI N G M E A N T O YOU?

Mega C H A PT E RS Making sure every member of a mega chapter feels like she belongs can be especially challenging because no two sisters need or want the same thing from ZTA. In Eta Xi Chapter (Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University), there were 190 members for Sophia Lee to think about when she was VP I/Coordinator of Committees.

“A big thing that brings us together is our community service,” she said. “We try to have a wide variety of events so everyone can find something she’s passionate about.” Having different ways for members to get involved allowed women to find what they were good at and meet other sisters who were interested in the same thing.

To keep sisters aware of what was going on, Sophia created a “Week at a Glance” graphic that fit perfectly on a phone screen. It included information about each event for the week, including the location, time, and if the women could earn chapter points by attending. This simple tool kept everyone on the same page throughout the week.

The actions that foster a strong sense of belonging within the chapter need to start with the members of EC and PC. In the past year, the officers of Alpha Xi Chapter (Indiana University), led by outgoing President Molly Connor, focused on setting goals that had sisterhood as the base to become the chapter they wanted to be. “We wanted to be more intentional about everything

we were doing,” Molly said. “We were getting kind of stagnant as a chapter, which was holding us back. So in the past year we made an effort to push our chapter forward and push our members to understand why we’re here and why we do what we do.” By focusing on their reasons for joining ZTA, the women of the chapter formed a stronger bond and deepened their sense of belonging.

“Having that group where you feel comfortable. You feel like you have a place there no matter what’s going on.

It’s that safe place.”

Alpha Xi Chapter officers were also intentional about reconnecting to ZTA values. Rather than focusing on big, complicated sisterhood events, they kept it simple. For example, they gathered in the multi-purpose room on campus and hosted a karaoke competition with new members. “It was a really low-pressure way to get to know the members of the newest pledge class,” Molly said. When a chapter has a strong sense of belonging, it doesn’t need a lot for sisterhood to thrive.

— Allie McConnell, Omicron Chapter

Once you recognize that a sense of belonging is such an important factor in sisterhood, you begin to see it everywhere. It’s not just sisterhood events, it’s the everyday practices and actions of our sisters. It’s why women join our chapters, why women stay in our chapters and what we should aim to aspire to every day. It’s that unspoken bond beyond friendship that keeps our sisterhood strong. It’s the true meaning of the saying “Zeta Is Forever.”

— Cecelia Howard, Alpha Chapter “Feeling a part of the sisterhood truly and feeling that sisterhood in everything that we do. It’s us being there for one another and ZTA.”

“It means finding yourself in good company with people who hold the same values that you do. You empower one another despite the differences you may have.”

— Molly Connor, Alpha Xi Chapter “When you go to chapter meetings or wherever with your sisters, you know you fit in there perfectly and you can be yourself around them.”

— Paige Blythe, Gamma Omicron Chapter “It’s everyone having a place and a role regardless of whether or not she has an officer position or she’s on a committee. It’s everyone feeling like she’s contributing but also that she’s getting a lot out of it.”

— Sophia Lee, Eta Xi Chapter “Belonging means you feel included and safe. You feel confident that if you needed somebody, you have somebody within the chapter to go to.”

— Abbey Rambo , Theta Zeta Chapter “You know you can walk up to any sister and you can open up to them about anything. You feel like you’re a part of something.”

— Julia Farhat, Kappa Nu Chapter

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Scholarship List · Winter 2018 · 33

ZTA is always home

By Ashley Sherman, Director of Communication

L

great bonding tool for sisters to see that while they may come from all over the country, they have ZTA and their alumnae chapter in common.

One such group is the Savannah, GA Alumnae Chapter.

Despite not having a collegiate chapter nearby to directly feed into membership, Savannah’s small alumnae chapter proves that when it comes to sisterhood, it’s about quality, not quantity.

What most stands out about this chapter is how members strive to make sure everyone feels included.

Throughout her travels, Melissa always felt welcomed by the various alumnae chapters she joined, and she credits former Savannah, GA Chapter President Kristen Stauff Deason (Iota Omega Chapter, University of Maryland) with making sure everyone in this chapter has that same experience. Kristen serves as the current Vice President of Membership.

ike any family, sisterhood takes work. Zeta Tau Alpha has 238 alumnae chapters across the country that work hard to build and maintain a strong sense of belonging among members. Often, alumnae chapter sisters become just as important in one’s life as collegiate sisters are, providing that same essential “home away from home” feeling.

Chapter President Melissa Marquis (Theta Iota Chapter, University of North Florida) moved around quite a bit before landing in Savannah, and she recognizes that a lot of members are also not originally from the area. That has contributed greatly to the sense of belonging the chapter has developed. It truly is a home away from home for these sisters.

The chapter’s theme for this year reflects that sentiment.

“No matter where you roam, ZTA is home” kicked off in the fall with a large map that each member pinned to show the path that lead her to Savannah. It was a 34 · THEMIS · Feature

Like Kristen, Melissa does an outstanding job of making sisters feel like part of the group. After Hurricane Irma, she personally called the entire chapter to keep track of where everyone ended up after evacuating, make sure everyone was OK and see if they needed help cleaning up.

“I’ve been that person who moved to a million places and didn’t know anyone,” Melissa said. But she has been lucky to meet women like Kristen along the way. “I just wanted to return the favor.”

“... I want them to feel that this is home for them, too.”

– Barbara Kazanjian Purks, Delta Beta Chapter, Florida Southern College

On the opposite coast, the Long Beach, CA Alumnae Chapter is also working very intentionally to find new sisters in the area and make sure they always feel welcome. Another thing the two chapters have in common is that they are in “destination cities” where people tend to move to rather than be from.

Like Melissa, Chapter President Angela Woods (Alpha Psi Chapter, University of Missouri) makes it a priority to embrace sisters from other places and give them a renewed sense of sisterhood.

“I was looking for people to connect with,” Angela said.

“It’s really nice to know that there’s a group of people that I’m going to see at least once a month. There are always familiar faces, and if I ever needed anything, I would feel comfortable calling any of them.”

Angela pointed out that one long-time member in particular has always been great about getting new sisters engaged.

wants to be sure every sister she meets knows that these alumnae are here to welcome her.

As a member for many years, Barbara has attended plenty of chapter events. “If I saw someone who was new, or I didn’t know, I made a point to go over and talk to them. I want them to feel that this is home for them, too.”

The chapter wants as many sisters as possible to feel that sense of belonging, so they recently expanded the area in which they hold events to be more accessible to sisters in southern Orange County as well. There isn’t an alumnae chapter there, so giving those sisters a home within the Long Beach, CA Chapter is a natural fit.

One thing stands out about these, and so many, of ZTA’s alumnae chapters: sisterhood is intentional. It takes some effort to reach out and continually prove that Zeta Is Forever, but it is always worth it. As Barbara said, “You never know where it is you’re going to wind up. Thank God there are ZTA chapters everywhere.”

Barbara Kazanjian Purks (Delta Beta Chapter, Florida Southern College) has been a member of the Long Beach, CA Chapter since she moved to California in 1974. She said this chapter is the reason she has her Honor Ring, and she Feature · Winter 2018 · 35

TOP 5 REASONS TO AT TEND

FEEL THE SISTERHOOD Nothing makes you remember why you love being a Zeta more than coming together with sisters of all ages.

MEET NEW SISTERS Mingling with alumnae and collegians from other chapters is a great way to build sisterhood and grow your own personal network.

HEAR THE CALL Learn more about new or different ways to get involved, such as advising a collegiate chapter or joining an alumnae chapter in your area.

S TAY I N - T H E - K N O W Get the latest national news and updates on exciting things like Convention 2018 and collegiate programming.

TA K E I N PROGRAMMING IDEAS You’ll find out what other chapters are up to and may leave with some good ideas for your own chapter events.

Zeta Day 2018 · Winter 2018 · 37

ALABAMA & MISSISSIPPI NOTHING SWEETER THAN ZETA LOVE Feb. 10 in Hoover, Ala. Embassy Suites-Hoover Kim Levine Hanson ztadp9a@gmail.com (404) 375–5670 ARIZONA CLASSY IN PINK April 21 in Tucson, Ariz.

2099 E. River Rd.

GEORGIA SISTERHOOD...SOUTHERN STYLE Feb. 17 in Cumming, Ga. Forsyth Conference Center at Lanier Technical College Kathy Pope Reinhagen ztadp7a@yahoo.com (423) 400–5144

MANITOBA, CANADA RELAX WITH ZTA April 7 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada Location TBD Ashleigh Kappos Woods ztadp15b@gmail.com (812) 550–2760

ILLINOIS HAPPIEST ZETAS ON EARTH April 14 in Arlington Heights, Ill. Metropolis Ballroom

MARYLAND, WASHINGTON, D.C. & DELAWARE ZTA STRONG March 4 in Wye Mills, Md. Chesapeake College

Kerry Diminuco zta.dp15a@gmail.com (847) 687–4880

Jennifer Ellen Ewing ztadp3a@gmail.com (410) 218–0396

INDIANA ZTA IS A GRAND ZLAM April 14 in Fort Wayne, Ind. Grand Wayne Center

MICHIGAN HEAR THE CALL April 7 in Ann Arbor, Mich.

Sheraton Ann Arbor Hotel

Katerina Vaitkus district.president.19b@gmail.com (408) 507–7282

Courtney George Holloway inztadp@gmail.com (765) 603–0350

Laura Liberty Mitchell ztadp13a@gmail.com (419) 779–7437

CALIFORNIA (SOUTHERN), NEVADA (SOUTHERN) & HAWAII A ZETA FAIR TO REMEMBER March 3 in Del Mar, Calif.

Del Mar Fairgrounds

IOWA ZTA CROWN DERBY March 24 in Altoona, Iowa Prairie Meadows Event Center

MINNESOTA PASSPORT TO SISTERHOOD April 28 in Bloomington, Minn.

Minnesota Valley Country Club

Cece Baldus Moore ztadp15g@gmail.com (515) 709–3232

Ashleigh Kappos Woods ztadp15b@gmail.com (812) 550–2760

KENTUCKY STRAWBERRY FIELDS FOREVER March 24 in Louisville, Ky. Louisville Boat Club

MISSOURI & KANSAS TODAY & FOREVER April 7 in Independence, Mo. Stoney Creek Hotel & Conference Center

Jo Silver jsilverzta@gmail.com (505) 239–9713 CALIFORNIA (NORTHERN) & NEVADA (NORTHERN) A SISTERHOOD EXTRAVAGANZA March 17 in Berkeley, Calif.

Upsilon Chapter House

Barb Chang-Holt ztadp19g@gmail.com (714) 655–6011 COLORADO & WYOMING CAMP ZETA April 14 in Ft. Collins, Colo.

Ft. Collins Marriott Sarah Duvall Gilstrap ztadp18b@gmail.com (303) 495–4027 FLORIDA CHARTING THE COURSE Feb. 24 in Jacksonville, Fla. Lexington Hotel & Conference Center Brooke Shores Pasko zta.dp8a@gmail.com (904) 716–5211

38 · THEMIS · Zeta Day 2018

Meredith Sims Crawford ztadp16a@yahoo.com (423) 208–3156 LOUISIANA THEY ALL ASKED FOR YOU Feb. 24 in New Orleans, La. Audubon Zoo Age Roth Salvaggio ztadp10a@gmail.com (504) 357–2405

Janet Vigen Levy ztadp17a@gmail.com (314) 852–3496 NEBRASKA TODAY & FOREVER April 21 in Lincoln, Neb. Country Inn and Suites Cece Baldus Moore ztadp15g@gmail.com (515) 709–3232

NEW ENGLAND OFF TO THE RACES April 7 in Sturbridge, Mass.

Sturbridge Host Hotel and Conference Center Jenna Kelley Uva ztadp1a@gmail.com (617) 922–2793 NEW JERSEY & NEW YORK GROWING OUR SISTERHOOD April 22 in Central New Jersey Location TBD Roberta Wodenscheck nynjztadp@gmail.com (703) 629–0634 NEW MEXICO ZETA TAU ALPHA WORLD March 3 in Clovis, N.M. Clovis Civic Center, 801 Schepps Blvd.

Jo Silver jsilverzta@gmail.com (505) 239–9713 NEW YORK (UPSTATE) HOW SWEET IT IS TO BE A ZTA April 14 in Orchard Park, N.Y. Chestnut Ridge Park Jenna Kelley Uva ztadp1a@gmail.com (617) 922–2793 NORTH CAROLINA MAKING MAGIC HAPPEN SINCE 1898 Feb. 24 in Durham, N.C. Durham Convention Center Rebecca McConn Rampe dpnczta@gmail.com (334) 538–4149

OKLAHOMA & ARKANSAS MAGICAL, MYTHICAL ZTA March 3 in Tulsa, Okla.

Hyatt Regency

UTAH OFF TO THE RACES April 28 in Salt Lake City, Utah Location TBD

Acacia Bender Croy ztadp18a@gmail.com (405) 401–1853

Jo Silver jsilverzta@gmail.com (505) 239–9713

PENNSYLVANIA & WEST VIRGINIA WONDER ZETA April 7 in York, Pa. Wyndham Garden York

VIRGINIA WE MERMAID FOR EACH OTHER March 24 in Norfolk, Va. Norfolk Waterside Marriott

Rebecca Traino Everitt ztadp2a@gmail.com (610) 299–8520

Erin Lynn Koster ztavadp@gmail.com (973) 525–7057

SOUTH CAROLINA ZETAS IN THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY Feb. 3 in Hodges, S.C. Little River Multicultural Center

WASHINGTON & OREGON PASSPORT TO PARADISE April 7 in Seattle, Wash.

Hilton Seattle

Olivia Padgett Spence ztasouthcarolinadp@yahoo.com (803) 606–6120

Jaime Elduen Keith ztadp19a@gmail.com (306) 886–5099

TENNESSEE COLOR ME ZETA April 7 in Jackson, Tenn.

Union University

WISCONSIN HATS OFF TO ZTA April 15 in Madison, Wis. Location TBD

Jennifer Speidel Baker ztadistrict16b@gmail.com (870) 636–5895

Ashleigh Kappos Woods ztadp15b@gmail.com (812) 550–2760

TEXAS GAME DAY WITH ZTA Feb. 17 in Frisco, Texas Omni Hotel Stacy LaRue Gannon ztadp11a@gmail.com (214) 929–1779

OHIO BERRY BASH April 7 in Perrysburg, Ohio Hilton Garden Inn—Perrysburg Kathy Papp ohiodpzta@gmail.com (216) 780–7277

Zeta Day Dates · Winter 2018 · 39

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

Congratulations to the following 75 dedicated Zetas, listed by their current state of residence, who received their Certificates of Merit in 2017.

ARIZONA Brittany Whitehead McArdle, ΘN Auburn University at Montgomery

INDIANA Heather Matthews Kirk, ΔK Louisiana State University

ARKANSAS Patti Elbert Abell, ZO Arkansas State University

Stephanie Murray Martin, ZA University of Evansville

Stacey Shaddox Bevans, E University of Arkansas

IOWA Cecilia Baldus Moore, AO The University of Iowa

CALIFORNIA Sarah Claflin Wheelock, ΘA California State University, Chico

KANSAS Dottie Bagwell Durband, ΔK Louisiana State University

COLORADO Colleen Donaldson Kern, IΨ Rochester Institute of Technology

Shelley Kerr Norris, K The University of Texas at Austin

Kate Failing Richardson, AY Oklahoma State University DELAWARE Jennifer Black Gallagher, HZ Elon University FLORIDA Helen Brown Rose, ΔY West Virginia Wesleyan College Rhonda Jacobi Trainor, ΓX Indiana State University GEORGIA Laura Ashley Adams, HM Augusta University

MARYLAND Jennifer Mead, ΓB Washington College Anne Meredith Merrell, IΩ University of Maryland Lori Bankert Szeliga, IΔ Towson University Kara Wellman Van Wyngarden, HΦ Illinois State University MISSOURI Leslie Gale, ΔX William Jewell College Morgan Haslag Koenig, ΘK University of Missouri-St. Louis

Michelle Edwards Griffin, ZA University of Evansville

Julie McFetridge Mann, ΘK University of Missouri-St. Louis

Marissa Markyna Powers, O Brenau University

NEW JERSEY Jill Peach Aspinwall, ΓB Washington College

Debbie Dodd Tyson, ZΞ Georgia Southern University Shannon Grinnan Weeks, O Brenau University ILLINOIS Jeanne Hosty Eckstrom, AK University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign 40 · THEMIS · Certificates of Merit

NEW MEXICO Cindy Bertoldo Brown, BN New Mexico State University Heather Uttley Kingery, BN New Mexico State University

NORTH CAROLINA Danielle Nicole Williams Benner, HΣ The University of North Carolina at Pembroke Dana Durant Ferguson, KZ Clemson University Libby Rhyne Herring, ΔO Lenoir-Rhyne University Lauren Nicole Link, HT The University of North Carolina at Charlotte OHIO Sarah Prasher, ΔΘ Ohio Northern University Beth Shafto Pucko, AH The University of Cincinnati Margaret Dowell Scott, AΘ Purdue University OKLAHOMA Ann Wickstrom Maslanka, AY Oklahoma State University Karen McCredie Oaks, AY Oklahoma State University Kelsey King Poe, AY Oklahoma State University Adria Fife Sanditen, ΓY University of Oklahoma Emily Wheeler, AY Oklahoma State University PENNSYLVANIA Erin McFadden, IΨ Rochester Institute of Technology Megan Latchford Morgan, KΣ University of South Florida Amy Esh Nunemaker, ZN Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania RHODE ISLAND Terry Kilbaine Fortin, IΠ University of Dayton

SOUTH CAROLINA Erin Curran, ΘΣ Winthrop University Dana Barthelemy Curry, KΠ University of South Carolina Aiken Beverly Jones, Theta Z Wofford College MaryBeth Wingate Shealy, BO University of South Carolina Olivia Padgett Spence, KΠ University of South Carolina Aiken Katie Rebecca Wilkes, HΛ College of Charleston TENNESSEE Betty Murphee Allen-Langley, ΔM The University of Tennessee at Martin Natalie Bigger Davis, ΓP Auburn University Brittany Skelton Gammon, IX Middle Tennessee State University Melissa Casutto Hart, Z University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Lesley Wilson Pascoe, IX Middle Tennessee State University

Kati Barrett Mize, ΔΣ Lamar University

TEXAS Cheri White Armstrong, ΘΓ Texas A&M University

Julia Laskowski Mrnak, K The University of Texas at Austin

Dawn Campbell Canavit, ΓZ Mississippi State University Stephanie Daigle, ΔZ Sam Houston State University Bea Moye Dutton, ΓΨ Texas Christian University

Becky Levin Navarro, ΔK Louisiana State University Jill Ruckman Sullivan, ΘH Stephen F. Austin State University Lindy Elmore Vineyard, Ω Southern Methodist University

Susan Sharp Ferguson, ΓΦ University of North Texas

VIRGINIA Jayleen Schott Bruce, ΘX George Mason University

Diane Cook Goebel, ΘO Baylor University

Ashley Ewell, HN Radford University

Gina Wiley Lehman, Z University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Brandi Guilliams, HN Radford University

Michelle Osborne Marshall, ΘH Stephen F. Austin State University

Erin Koster, ΓB Washington College

Heather May-White, Ω Southern Methodist University

WHITE VIOLET RECIPIENTS A White Violet is a Zeta Tau Alpha who has been a member of the Fraternity for 50 years. In 2017, ZTA honored 411 of these members with the Order of the Shield Recognition Service at a Zeta Day or other special event. These women received a White Violet pin and certificate from the Fraternity in recognition of their continuous dedication to friendship and sisterhood.

Members who reach the 75-year membership milestone receive a White Violet charm as a gift from the Fraternity.

Congratulations to these 24 sisters who celebrated 75 years as Zeta Tau Alphas in 2017.

Kathryn Long Blix, Y University of California, Berkeley

Evelyn Weaver Kaufman, BΞ University of Akron

Dorothy Lindecker Russo, M Drury University

Barbara Reeder Brummett, BΠ University of Oregon

Dorothy Coldsmith Matsen, Σ Baker University

Anne Bloor Schryver, K The University of Texas at Austin

Jane Chandler Cermak, BΔ Miami University

Ruth Kohlhauff McCorvie, AK University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Patricia McKimm Shuford, AZ The Ohio State University

Sue Miles Chamlee, K The University of Texas at Austin

Mildred Thorpe Moore, N The University of Alabama

Fredabel Stalain Smith, T Millikin University

Mrs. George W. Frost, AΠ Ohio University

Mrs. Julia Lattomus Coxe Munn, BB Dickinson College

Lois Close Turnbull, X University of Pittsburgh

Mrs. Wm Larry Gran, AΠ Ohio University

Elizabeth Wright Neeley, Λ Southwestern University

Barbara Hathaway Wolff, Ξ University of Southern California

Annalouise Werner Issleib, AΦ Northwestern University

Myra M. Pattishall, BΓ Florida State University

Ruth Vogler Wussler, BX Washington University

Kathryn Hilliard Jones, Δ Randolph College

Mary Scott Rasche, AΠ Ohio University

Jane Waller Young, ΓΔ University of Mississippi White Violets · Winter 2018 · 41

WHERE EVERYBODY KNOWS YOUR NAME

By Christy Marx Barber, Staff Writer Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name, and they’re always glad you came. You want to be where you can see our troubles are all the same. You want to be where everybody knows your name.

That sense of belonging, where everybody knows your name, sustained the television situation comedy “Cheers” for 11 years. In Zeta Tau Alpha, it sustains our chapters.

While chapters with traditional houses have a strong sense of belonging, the results of ZTA’s spring 2017 collegiate assessment show how the Fraternity Housing Corporation provides a homelike environment for chapters on campuses that do not have free-standing houses. A large number of chapters that scored among the top 20 in the area of Belonging live together on the floor of a residence hall or gather on campus in a chapter room away from where they live.

Duquesne University, located in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, requires all freshmen and sophomores to live in Towers Hall. Duquesne’s sororities have deferred recruitment, so freshmen who pledge move into their chapter’s “wing” as sophomores.

On another urban campus—Rockhurst University in Kansas City, Missouri—Kappa Eta Chapter also finds refuge in its chapter room, oddly enough located in the basement of a men’s residence hall. Last semester, Sophie Ojile, the chapter’s outgoing Vice President I/Coordinator of Committees, moved Program Council meetings from a classroom to the chapter room.

“In the classroom, the PC members sat in rows and I would stand in front. It was awkward and impersonal,” Sophie said. “I wanted PC officers to talk, chime in and start conversations. In the chapter room, PC members sit on couches, chairs, the floor or at our big table. It has prompted much more open discussions. We get a lot more out of our meetings.”

“We find ourselves gravitating toward the room.”

– SOPHIE OJILE KAPPA ETA CHAPTER OUTGOING VP I

At Duquesne, 25 of Eta Beta Chapter’s 77 members live in the wing, but all members have access to the common area. Outgoing chapter President Miah Dunkleberger believes the chapter feels lucky to have its comfortable home, even if it is on the 13th floor.

“The whole new member class gets to live together for a year. It feels like you are coming home every day. It’s not like a traditional dorm experience,” Miah said.

Safety is also a factor on an urban campus like Duquesne.

“Being on campus eliminates risk,” Miah said. “It helps me rest at night to know our sisters are safe.”

Eta Beta uses its common area for service projects, sisterhood events, studying and just being together.

Miah’s favorite memory of her time in the wing is from Secret Santa night. “We wore pajamas and decorated a 42 · THEMIS · Fraternity Housing Corporation News

tree, exchanged gifts and drank hot cocoa,” she recalled.

“I felt as though I was in a Hallmark Channel movie.”

Kappa Eta uses its chapter room as a gathering place for all 80 members before and after major events.

Many members use the room to do homework and study. The chapter’s Spirituality Chairman hosts Bible study there every week as well.

“We find ourselves gravitating toward the room,” Sophie said. “It’s homey, a place to refocus, a central meeting place. It’s not perfect. Sometimes we have to squeeze in. But it doesn’t matter if our space is perfect. It’s our space.

“It’s also a great place just to eat brownies and talk about how tough our weeks have been. Nothing says sisterhood more than eating brownies and saying, ‘Yep, your week was definitely tougher than mine.’”

Lambda Chapter at Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas, also uses its chapter room as a place to share troubles and joys. All 65 members meet there for chapter meetings that conclude with “thorns and white violets.” Members can share a thorn—something that went wrong that week—but they also have to share a white violet—something that went well.

“It’s good to know everyone in the chapter has your back,” said outgoing President Abby Wilson. “We’re a small chapter on a small campus. We are almost always together, but having that place where you know you can get support is really important.”

Like Sophie at Rockhurst, Abby believes meetings are more effective in the chapter room than in a classroom. “Even though it is more informal and members have to sit on the floor,” she said, “there is less tension and the members don’t feel they are being lectured.”

Abby’s favorite event in the chapter room is the annual potluck on the Monday before Thanksgiving break. “The

best part is the place mats,” she said. “Everyone gets a blank one and we pass them around. We write something we are thankful for about each sister on her place mat.”

While it may look different for each chapter, a sense of belonging is a strong predictor of a healthy ZTA experience. For Eta Beta, Kappa Eta and Lambda chapters, belonging begins and ends in the chapter room, where everybody knows your name.

Note: The ZTA Fraternity Housing Corporation furnishes and decorates these three chapter rooms as well as 37 other chapter rooms, suites and lodges.

Chapter rooms promote sisterhood for 40 ZTA chapters across the country. (Top left) The members of Lambda Chapter (Southwestern University) personalized place mats at their annual Thanksgiving potluck feast in their chapter room in the Panhellenic building on campus. (Top right) The Program Council of Kappa Eta Chapter (Rockhurst University) has more effective meetings when the officers come together in their chapter room in the basement of a men’s residence hall. (Bottom) Sisters from Eta Beta Chapter (Duquesne University) made the holidays warm and bright in their 13th-floor residence hall wing.

Fraternity Housing Corporation News · Winter 2018 · 43

ZETA TAU ALPHA FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS

FOUNDERS GRANTS

The $9,000 Founders Grants are awarded to graduate students who exhibit outstanding leadership, exceptional academic achievement and financial need. Individuals who have been admitted to recognized university graduate programs are eligible for these grants.

Alice Bland Coleman Founders Grant Natalie Jane Thomas, ZΣ The University of Texas at Arlington Attending The University of Texas at Arlington for political science Alice Grey Welsh Founders Grant Lindsey Renee Barnes, IΞ Christian Brothers University Attending Christian Brothers University for a master’s degree in accounting Della Lewis Hundley Founders Grant Elyse Christine Gessler, ZΓ Youngstown State University Attending Indiana University of Pennsylvania for a doctorate in communication media and instructional technology

Mary Jones Batte Founders Grant Brooke Claire Bahlinger, BI Centenary College of Louisiana Attending Louisiana State University Paul M. Hebert Law Center Maud Jones Horner Founders Grant Paige Pirkey, IΞ Christian Brothers University Attending University of Memphis for a doctorate in educational psychology and research Ruby Leigh Orgain Founders Grant Mandy Pierce Scott, ΘH Stephen F. Austin State University Attending University of HoustonClear Lake for educational leadership

ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIPS

Generally given in honor or in memory of a special Zeta, the yearly interest generated by these funds is used to provide the scholarships, which vary in amount depending on the endowment. The minimum donation to create this scholarship is $40,000 over three years. *Denotes a graduate student

Bonney Shuman Endowed Scholarship Hope Jolene Flores-Austin, KM Linfield College Caroline Leigh Morrell Memorial Endowed Scholarship Madison Morel Nelson, ΔM The University of Tennessee at Martin Carolyn Hendricks Hester Endowed Scholarship Ashley Brooke Evert, ΓΠ The University of Georgia Connie Fotos Grace Endowed Scholarship Emily Claire Almack, AΘ Purdue University Dallas Alumnae Association Endowed Scholarship Kaelan Paige Currie, ΔZ Sam Houston State University Delista Prewitt Endowed Scholarship Alex Christine Everitt, ΓM University of Nebraska at Omaha Elaine Pierce Allison Memorial Scholarship Lauren Elisabeth Gardner, ΔZ Sam Houston State University Elena DeVilliers Endowed Scholarship Alexis De La Rosa, ΓA University of Miami

Ethel Coleman Van Name Founders Grant Kristen Danielle Baker, HT The University of North Carolina at Charlotte Attending The George Washington University for a master’s degree in forensic psychology

Agnes & Tom Gwin Endowed Scholarship Adriana Nichole Trizna, AΞ Indiana University Anne West Bruning Endowed Scholarship Emily Marie Lamantia, Θ Bethany College

Founders of Alpha Upsilon Endowed Scholarship Madi Patricia Fairchild, AY Oklahoma State University

Frances Yancey Smith Founders Grant Amanda Dawn Wyant, ΔΔ Baldwin Wallace University Attending North Carolina State University for a doctorate in sociology

Atlanta Alpha Alumnae Endowed Scholarship Claire Margret Anne Perry, HP The University of North Alabama

Genevieve Van Strom Pitcock Endowed Scholarship *Rhianna Lee Becker, Σ Baker University

Barbara Shetzley Memorial Endowed Scholarship Jessica Ann Seamands, AΘ Purdue University

Glenna Gundell Endowed Scholarship Amanda Lee Ianucilli, IΓ The College of New Jersey

Helen M. Crafford Founders Grant Jessica Rae Slupe, ZB Thiel College Attending Slippery Rock University for clinical mental health counseling

44 · THEMIS · Scholarship Recipients

Betty Hillix Foellinger Endowed Scholarship Lauren McLean Old, BΩ Union University

Gregory Foundation Endowed Scholarship Riley Marie Matuszewski, KΣ University of South Florida

Harriet & Carl Frische Endowed Scholarship *Kelsey Brownell Dugan, ΛB University of Rhode Island Hester South Memorial Endowed Scholarship *Stacey Verkest Voigt, ΓT Texas Tech University Hester South Memorial Endowed Scholarship *Rachel Ann Bourgeois, ΔB Florida Southern College Jerry Ann Rainey Putt Endowed Scholarship Catie Irene Gadue, ΛA Sacred Heart University Joyce Barnhart Bee Memorial Endowed Scholarship Myranda Nicole Murway, ΘΓ Texas A&M University Julia Marthaler Hill Endowed Scholarship Abigail Ruth Worley, HP The University of North Alabama Kay Galm Memorial Endowed Scholarship Daniella De Freitas, ΓI University of Florida Kitty Phelps Seitz Memorial Endowed Scholarship Kathryn Emily Willer, AZ The Ohio State University Laura Kathleen Dobson Memorial Endowed Scholarship Jordan Melody Molizon, IO Lander University Leanna Rose Piver Endowed Scholarship Hannah Nicole Mills, IΘ Georgia Institute of Technology Margarethe “Peg” Livesay Endowed Scholarship Madeline Elaine Abbs, BY Kansas State University Marion Moore Todd Endowed Scholarship *Stephanie Lynn Knudsen, AY Oklahoma State University Marlene Conrad Endowed Fund Kelsey Brooke Woods, ΔΛ Georgia State University Martha C. Edens Endowed Scholarship Parker Deal Heil, HI Valdosta State University

Mary Ann Stratford Stegall Endowed Scholarship Sarah Elizabeth Dininger, ZY Edinboro University of Pennsylvania McMaster Sisters Endowed Scholarship Rachel Rebekah Jones, Z University of Tennessee, Knoxville Merle S. Rehkopf Memorial Endowed Scholarship AnnaLee Amelia Cope, AM Washburn University Mu Endowed Scholarship Morgan Brittany Harper, M Drury University Patsy Ellis Roach Memorial Endowed Scholarship Grayson Ysabella Ankrom, ΓΨ Texas Christian University Rachel Pendray Memorial Endowed Scholarship Gina Claudia Sereni, ΔZ Sam Houston State University Rebecca J. Jakubcin Memorial Endowed Scholarship ToniAnn Sirkin, HK University of Central Florida Ruth Potts Endowed Scholarship Miranda Paige Lindmark, Σ Baker University Sally Tucker Thompson Endowed Scholarship Taylor Zoe Mueller, K The University of Texas at Austin Shamim (Syed) and Jordan Wu Endowed Scholarship Angela Eileen Neeley, Y University of California, Berkeley Stephany “Stevie” Moore Joslin Endowed Scholarship Madelaine Sara Wood, BΔ Miami University Suzanne Morrow Ellis and Patricia Morrow Endowed Scholarship Amelia Rose Fuchs, Λ Southwestern University Tracy Pierce Kormylo Memorial Endowed Scholarship Kelly Ann Higgins, ΓΠ The University of Georgia

Vallera Clough Ross Endowed Scholarship Mykaela Hagen, Σ Baker University Vena Bragg Endowed Scholarship Kate Michele Muhlbaier, HΓ West Chester University of Pennsylvania Virginia Irvin Endowed Scholarship Dana Chioma Onuoha, ΔZ Sam Houston State University Zeta Alpha Endowed Scholarship Sarah Elizabeth Gehres, ZA University of Evansville

RECOGNITION SCHOLARSHIPS

These scholarships resulted from a minimum contribution of $1,600 by the sponsoring group, along with $400 from the ZTA Foundation. An individual or alumnae/collegiate chapter may establish a Recognition Scholarship and may name it in honor or in memory of a special Zeta. *Denotes a graduate student Ana Faoro Recognition Scholarship *Leah Christine Marshall, Ψ University of Washington Ann Thomas Hutchison Memorial Scholarship Nicole Rose Heinrich, ΔA California State University, Long Beach Atlanta Alpha Recognition Scholarship Sarah Elizabeth Hurst, ΛΛ Kennesaw State University Aunt Paula Caputo Memorial Scholarship Aimee Maria Kearns, ZΓ Youngstown State University Barbara A. Peters Memorial Scholarship *Melissa Sobnosky, ZΓ Youngstown State University Baton Rouge, LA Alumnae Chapter Scholarship Hannah Nicole McDuffie, ΔK Louisiana State University Becky Hainsworth Kirwan Recognition Scholarship Jenna Brooke Hardesty, IΔ Towson University

Scholarship Recipients · Winter 2018 · 45

Beta Psi Lady Recognition Scholarship Kristen Abigail Gray, BΨ Stetson University

Florence Dunn Memorial Scholarship Abbie Elizabeth Kepto, ΓZ Mississippi State University

Betty Steinhauer Ott Memorial Scholarship Emily Anne Haines, IΠ University of Dayton

Fort Wayne, IN Alumnae Recognition Scholarship Natalie Ann Shanks, ΓX Indiana State University

Birmingham, AL Alumnae Chapter Recognition Scholarship Ana-Cecilia Rush, ΓP Auburn University Bruce and Mary Walcutt Recognition Scholarship Taylor Charise Dahlgren, K The University of Texas at Austin Cass Elias McCarter Memorial Scholarship Rebekah Lee Wingard, BO University of South Carolina Collin County, Texas Alumnae Chapter Recognition Scholarship Jennifer Lindsay Puchala, AY Oklahoma State University Columbus, OH Alumnae Recognition Scholarship Angela Kelli Reid, AZ The Ohio State University Dayton, OH Alumnae Recognition Scholarship Kimmie Ivana Thomas, AZ The Ohio State University Debra Barrett Cooke Recognition Scholarship Kimberly Taylor Sutherland, BΨ Stetson University Donna Kinney Recognition Scholarship Abbey Rose Such, Z University of Tennessee, Knoxville Dr. Andrea Porter Recognition Scholarship DeLena Jean Harris, ZΨ Jacksonville State University Elizabeth Emery Patterson Recognition Scholarship Zoe Alexandra Temple, Y University of California, Berkeley Eta Kappa Recognition Scholarship Estefa Fakes, HK University of Central Florida Ethel M. Cullom Memorial Scholarship Julie Li Lim, KΘ California State University, San Bernardino 46 · THEMIS · Scholarship Recipients

Ft. Worth Alumnae Chapter Recognition Scholarship Ashton Riley Baltazar, ΓΦ University of North Texas

Hester South Memorial Recognition Scholarship Savanah Lynn Craig, ΔΔ Baldwin Wallace University Houston Northwest, TX Alumnae Recognition Scholarship Taylor LeeAnn Adams, Λ Southwestern University Ida Phelps Hassler Recognition Scholarship Gina Victoria Fullerton, ΓΦ University of North Texas

Gainesville, FL Alumnae Chapter Recognition Scholarship Alexis Marie Brown, ΓI University of Florida

In Honor of Angela Kelly Recognition Scholarship Sammy Marie Harris, ΔH West Texas A&M University

Gamma Zeta Recognition Scholarship Abby Rae Carberry, ΓZ Mississippi State University

In Honor of Carolyn Carpenter Recognition Scholarship Jenny Catlin Young, ΘT The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Gamma Zeta Recognition Scholarship *Kaitlyn Michelle Scoufos, ΓZ Mississippi State University Gamma Zeta Recognition Scholarship Michelle Christine Kellum, ΓZ Mississippi State University Gamma Zeta Recognition Scholarship *Michelle Deanna Riehm, ΓZ Mississippi State University Gayle Pastorelli Zeiter Recognition Scholarship Jackie Ann Spicer, IH University of Nevada, Las Vegas Gloria Culberson Hice Recognition Scholarship Mendi Rose Lash, ZΨ Jacksonville State University Greater Kansas City Alumnae Chapter Recognition Scholarship Taylor Jordan Ekart, ΔX William Jewell College Greater New Orleans Alumnae Chapter Recognition Scholarship Amanda Belle Farr, BI Centenary College of Louisiana Helen Gail Songer Dippold Memorial Recognition Scholarship Hannah Tolliver, Σ Baker University

In Honor of Mary Albert Ward Recognition Scholarship Anna E. Huffman, ΘT The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill In Honor of Nancy Burnett Recognition Scholarship Alissa Marie Rodgers, ΔZ Sam Houston State University Indianapolis Alumnae Recognition Scholarship Sydney Nicole Hartman, ΛE Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis Jacksonville, FL Alumnae Chapter Recognition Scholarship Liv Claire Dieschbourg, AO The University of Iowa Jeanne Branscombe Williams Memorial Scholarship *Alaina Nicole Marelli, ΔΓ High Point University Jennifer Baker Recognition Scholarship *Meagan Elizabeth Briley, IΦ North Carolina State University JoAnne Eaton-Morriss Memorial Scholarship Teagan Rose-Hollon Moriarty, BΨ Stetson University Joanne Wehmueller Memorial Recognition Scholarship Pallavi Chadha, Y University of California, Berkeley

Josephine Martin Spradley Memorial Recognition Scholarship Haleigh Elizabeth Barnett, ΛΛ Kennesaw State University

Mary Anne Howard Jury Honorary Recognition Scholarship Carly Eve Fisher, BΓ Florida State University

Kappa Beta Recognition Scholarship *Peri Elizabeth Imler, KB Presbyterian College

Murfreesboro Alumnae Chapter Recognition Scholarship Brianna Marie Walker, IX Middle Tennessee State University

Kappa Zeta Recognition Scholarship Brooke Dalton Davis, KZ Clemson University Kappa Zeta Recognition Scholarship Mollie Grayson Davidson, KZ Clemson University Kappa Zeta Recognition Scholarship Shannon Elizabeth Corcoran, KZ Clemson University Keeley McDonald Riddle Honorary Recognition Scholarship Elizabeth Leigh Berry, ΘT The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Krystal Jean Berryman “Be Steadfast, Strong, Always Graceful.” Scholarship Colleen Ann Cusick, HΦ Illinois State University Leah Goggans Simmons Recognition Scholarship Ashlee Olivia Goff, ZΨ Jacksonville State University Lexington, KY Alumnae Recognition Scholarship Kathryn Deine Hopkins, BΛ University of Louisville Louisville, KY Alumnae Recognition Scholarship *Taylor Crosby Neill, BΛ University of Louisville Lucille P. Maguire and Mary Jane Schroder Recognition Scholarship Regan Elizabeth Steimel, BΘ Franklin College Martin Area Alumnae Recognition Scholarship Katie Marie Huggins, ΔM The University of Tennessee at Martin Mary Albert Ward Memorial Scholarship Erica Rae Richardson, ΘT The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Nancy Jo Stipp Recognition Scholarship Abby Mackenna Sikes, E University of Arkansas Nancy Newton Hunt Recognition Scholarship Jayne Elizabeth Roller, M Drury University Nashville, TN Alumnae Recognition Scholarship Paige Josephine Onomastico, ZB Thiel College Nashville, TN Alumnae Recognition Scholarship Melissa Lauren Mitchell, ΛI Vanderbilt University Nelia Bentley McLuckie Recognition Scholarship Katelyn Anne Rosewell Potter, KΦ Christopher Newport University New Mexico Alumnae Recognition Scholarship Sara Ashlyn Connelly, ΔΠ Eastern New Mexico University Nina Beth Feinzig Memorial Scholarship Addison Suzanne Baca, AΨ University of Missouri Northern New Jersey Alumnae Recognition Scholarship Kerianne Marie Szewczyk, II Fairleigh Dickinson University NW Suburban Alumnae of Chicago Recognition Scholarship Cori Leigh Hansen, AΞ Indiana University Oklahoma City Alumnae Chapter Recognition Scholarship Eden Marie Powell, ZΘ East Central University Pamela Morris Blessing White Violet Scholarship Sarah Frances Harness, ZA University of Evansville

SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS SAY “THANK YOU” “Thank you so much for this opportunity. It means more than anything to receive such an honor. It’ll help me achieve my dream of becoming a pediatric physical therapist and helping children who really do need the therapy to get better.”

— Rachel Vales, Gamma Kappa Chapter, James Madison University “I received the Sally Walter Recognition Scholarship. This means the world to me because Sally is an amazing Zeta Lady, and I get to live out her legacy through this scholarship and go to school and get the education I will need to go to grad school.”

— Eliza Sorrell, Zeta Chapter, University of Tennessee, Knoxville “Earning this scholarship means being recognized for academic achievement this past year, and it will make being in ZTA more affordable for us.”

— Erica Richardson and Rachel Lempp, Theta Tau Chapter, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Apply for a scholarship at zetataualpha.org/scholarships

Province II-B Recognition Scholarship Anna Gebhardt, ΓE Pennsylvania State University Rocky Mountain Alumnae Chapter Memorial Scholarship Lauren Elizabeth Chew, KA Colorado State University Research Triangle Alumnae Recognition Scholarship Margot Calmar Duke University

LIFELONG SERVICE Since she graduated from University of Florida in 1982, Liz Gallo Dunn (Gamma Iota Chapter) has been an active alumnae volunteer. After serving in many roles, including collegiate chapter advisor, Province President (in Florida, Virginia and Maryland), and National Scholastic Achievement Chairman, Liz joined the ZTA Foundation Scholarship Committee.

“It kept me working with collegians, which I really love,” she said.

When Liz joined ZTA, she saw it as an opportunity to meet people and become involved on a large campus. Though she didn’t know anything about fraternities, she quickly realized she needed to see beyond the skits to find a bond and focus on something bigger than herself. “It was easier to do that with ZTA. It was kind of organic,” she said. “Little did I know it would be a gateway for staying involved the rest of my life.”

Now, serving on the Foundation Scholarship Committee gives Liz a chance to view society through the applications. “Seeing the different generations and what their challenges are...it’s different than when I went through school,” she said. Getting a glimpse into the lives of collegians is one of Liz’s favorite parts of the job, and she suggests women spend quality time answering the application questions.

“We want to award these scholarships to people who need them,” she said.

“Speak from your heart. We’re all in this together. We want to know and understand your situation. We’re in the business of service; we want to help you.”

Roxanne Trovato Wood Recognition Scholarship Kim Renee Jacks, IN Susquehanna University Ruth Allen Lind Scholarship Katelyn Mackenzie Barr, AΘ Purdue University Sally Walter Recognition Scholarship Eliza Carolina Sorrell, Z University of Tennessee, Knoxville San Antonio, TX Alumnae Recognition Scholarship Caroline Maria Loudermilk, ΛΓ The University of Texas at San Antonio San Diego, CA Alumnae Chapter Recognition Scholarship Alyssa Nicole Ramirez, ΘΦ California State University, Fullerton Sandy Villa Kelly Recognition Scholarship Hannah Devi Thevarajoo, Σ Baker University Silicon Valley Alumnae Recognition Scholarship Angela Crystal Wu, Y University of California, Berkeley St. Louis Alumnae Recognition Scholarship *Maureen Elizabeth Rice, KΩ Saint Louis University Stephanie Arnette Powell Recognition Scholarship Caroline Elizabeth Stroud, ΓΠ The University of Georgia Stephanie Cole Achievement Scholarship *Caitlin Michelle Coviello, BΓ Florida State University

Sylvia Link Schell Memorial Recognition Scholarship Tessa Renae Wilson, ΔH West Texas A&M University The Nelia Bentley McLuckie Memorial Scholarship Dana Rose DePaulo, ZB Thiel College The Three Best Friends that Anyone’s Ever Had Recognition Scholarship Shawna Marie Disbrow, ΛE Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis Theta Eta 40th Anniversary Recognition Scholarship Kaylee Ann Real, ΘH Stephen F. Austin State University Theta Iota 40th Anniversary Recognition Scholarship Allyson Brooke Fancher, ΘI University of North Florida Theta Zeta Recognition Scholarship Gabby Boniface, ΘZ Wofford College Theta Zeta Recognition Scholarship Molly Elizabeth Humphries, ΘZ Wofford College Toledo, Akron, Columbus Recognition Scholarship Nicki Ann McElroy, ΔΘ Ohio Northern University Trixy Swearingen Brill Memorial Scholarship Delaney Wray Wilson, ΓX Indiana State University Winifred Dinsmoor Nightingale Memorial Scholarship *Anne Gallo Morris, ΓI University of Florida Zeta Psi Recognition Scholarship Sabrina Alyssa Martin, ZΨ Jacksonville State University Zeta Xi Chapter Recognition Scholarship Peyton Juel Podschwit, E University of Arkansas ZTAlways Recognition Scholarship *Dasha Francesca Donado, AB University of Pennsylvania

SERVICE SCHOLARSHIPS

Andie Rose Britain, ΛN Furman University

Stephanie Marie DeMain, ZΓ Youngstown State University

Taylor Renee Britt, KX Shorter University

Missy Jane DeMarco, HΦ Illinois State University

Berkley Casey, IO Lander University

Morgan Noel Bukovec, IΠ University of Dayton

Janine Marie Denney-Mazzilli, Ψ University of Washington

Becca Anne Chase, ΘΔ Salisbury University

Bailey Rebecca Byrne, E University of Arkansas

Leslie Marie DeRossi, AY Oklahoma State University

Jennifer Krystal Kaneer, ΔM The University of Tennessee at Martin

Hailey Elizabeth Clark, ΓΠ The University of Georgia

Sarah Kathryne DiGiorgio, AZ The Ohio State University

Bertha Kim, AZ The Ohio State University

*Kendra Jean Clark, Σ Baker University

Stephanie Mariana Donis, HK University of Central Florida

Allie Lynn McConnell, O Brenau University

Danielle Cheri Clarke, ZΘ East Central University

Meghan Patricia Dorner, HΓ West Chester University of Pennsylvania

Stephanie Anne Smith, ZA University of Evansville

Catherine Coleman, ΓA University of Miami

Jamison Aubrey Duck, Λ Southwestern University

Alison Ann Sperger, ΔO Lenoir-Rhyne University

Oakleigh Reagan Collier, BΘ Franklin College

Layla Jean Enayati, ZΞ Georgia Southern University

ACHIEVEMENT SCHOLARSHIPS

Abbey Elizabeth Collins, ΛK Appalachian State University

Cheyenne Taylor Fahy, HK University of Central Florida

Callie Kirsten Cornell, ΔM The University of Tennessee at Martin

*Ana Louisa Faoro, Ψ University of Washington

Dawn Erin Craft, ΔY West Virginia Wesleyan College

Lauren Ann Fischetti, ΔΓ High Point University

Kalee Joy Creswell, ZΘ East Central University

Michelle Diane Fitzgibbons, BΨ Stetson University

Susan Elizabeth Cummins, ΓΞ Indiana University of Pennsylvania

*Chelsea Marie Foglio, HK University of Central Florida

Carlee O’Blair Darnell, IΞ Christian Brothers University

Tamela Ann Foshee, ZO Arkansas State University

Victoria Leigh DaSilva, ΛB University of Rhode Island

Allie Anne Fowler, ΘO Baylor University

Angela Dauti, ΛΘ New York University

Lucia Marie Garabo, IN Susquehanna University

Sarah Elizabeth Davidson, ΓK James Madison University

Kaitlyn Brooke Garrett, HP The University of North Alabama

Kate Davis, ΛΛ Kennesaw State University

Molly Kathryn Garrett, ΔB Florida Southern College

*Jessica Dealmeida, KO Merrimack College

Jessie Claire Gholson, ΔΨ Samford University

Brittany Alana DeCarmine, ZB Thiel College

Kaelyn Jordan Greer, ΘΘ Arkansas Tech University

Service Scholarships, which vary in amount, are awarded to students seeking degrees in medicine or related fields.

Achievement Scholarships are funded by the ZTA Foundation General Scholarship Fund and are awarded to students who demonstrate leadership, maintain high GPAs and have financial need. These scholarships focus on individuals from chapters that do not have designated scholarships. *Denotes a graduate student Kaitlin Rose Agnello, HΓ West Chester University of Pennsylvania Stephanie Allen, IΞ Christian Brothers University Anissa Marie Alvarez, ΓΩ University of Houston Bailey Caroline Amis, AY Oklahoma State University Alyssa ReAnne Bagoly, HΠ Wright State University Molly Margaret Bankuti, ΛZ Lehigh University Savannah Rose Bellem, Σ Baker University Braelyn Rae Bianchi, K The University of Texas at Austin

Scholarship Recipients · Winter 2018 · 49

Cera Cole Grewell, AY Oklahoma State University

*Hannah Danielle Jaudon, AN Birmingham-Southern College

Nina Marie Lowenbach, ΘΣ Winthrop University

Kendra Elaine Grundy, ZA University of Evansville

Nicolette Taylor Jennings, ΓI University of Florida

Sonya Rita Mack, ΛΓ The University of Texas at San Antonio

Clarissa Lynn Gurnow, HY Missouri Southern State University

Abigail Cheyenne Jones, BΘ Franklin College

Kaitlyn Danielle Mahler, ZΘ East Central University

Taylor Nicole Gyenis, ΔK Louisiana State University

Stephanie Anne Jones, AM Washburn University

*Emily Kate Manush, HP The University of North Alabama

Karissa Marie Hand, AB University of Pennsylvania

Ariana Maria Jordan, ΛΛ Kennesaw State University

Maria Rose Marasco, ΘΘ Arkansas Tech University

Maggie Nicole Hand, ΘΘ Arkansas Tech University

*Nicolette Jane Juncker, ZA University of Evansville

Hailey Erica Martin, ΘΣ Winthrop University

Connor Renee Harwood, BI Centenary College of Louisiana

Sean Suzanne Kalb, ΓΨ Texas Christian University

Victoria Pauline Mauriello, IΓ The College of New Jersey

Brionna Nicole Hawkins, ZΛ Rider University

McKenzi Ann King, AN Birmingham-Southern College

Catherine Dawn Mayo, HA Georgia Southwestern State University

Kayla Marie Henry, ZB Thiel College

Meredith Ann Knauer, ΔN The University of New Orleans

Kat Lee McCarroll, Ψ University of Washington

Bailey Elizabeth Hill, E University of Arkansas

Morgan Renee Kohler, ΔΩ Westminster College

*Kelsey Faith McCurdy, ΓB Washington College

Delaney Elizabeth Hill, ΔΔ Baldwin Wallace University

Madison Amelia Kulik, ΛN Furman University

Brooke Alexandria Miller, ΘΘ Arkansas Tech University

Rosie Rose Hollis, Σ Baker University

Kayla Danyelle Laws, BI Centenary College of Louisiana

Mindy Marie Momeyer, ΔΔ Baldwin Wallace University

Layla Fahmi Husen, KΩ Saint Louis University

Rachel Susannah Lempp, ΘT The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Victoria Cathleen Moses, ZN Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania

Katie Burgess Jarrett, ΘZ Wofford College

Terese Elaina Lewis, ΓM University of Nebraska at Omaha

Laurel Shannon Murray, IA Robert Morris University

TRENDS IN HIGHER EDUCATION AVERAGE DEBT OF COLLEGE STUDENTS

67%

Average percent of 2016 graduates who borrowed money for college

$28,773

Average amount of debt for a 2016 college graduate

2016-2017 AVERAGE COST OF COLLEGE

*Paulina Christine Owens, AΨ University of Missouri

Sterling Nicole Shrum, ΓT Texas Tech University

Madeline Mary Triggs, BY Kansas State University

Hailey Ann Pachucki, IX Middle Tennessee State University

*Whitney Anne Silkey, Σ Baker University

Andrea Lynn Underwood, BΘ Franklin College

Cara Lynne Palusak, AZ The Ohio State University

Alexandra Eve Smith, ΔΔ Baldwin Wallace University

Savannah Leigh Valentine, HT The University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Elise Marie Parker, E University of Arkansas

Maddie Mckenzie Smith, ΓI University of Florida

Rachel Hannah Vales, ΓK James Madison University

Madilynn Tori Peck, O Brenau University

Maisie Lynn Smith, AΘ Purdue University

*Bridget O’Connell Walde, KΩ Saint Louis University

Grace Lynnsey Pence, HΠ Wright State University

Halle Nicole Smrek, ZΓ Youngstown State University

*Katelyn Walls, BΩ Union University

Erica Paige Peters, ZO Arkansas State University

Lauren Taylor Spikes, ΘΓ Texas A&M University

Marni Lynn Wax, AO The University of Iowa

Sydney Elise Plotner, HΠ Wright State University

*Connor Ann Staats, BY Kansas State University

Olivia Kathleen Weigl, KΩ Saint Louis University

Victoria Rose Pompa, II Fairleigh Dickinson University

Karlyn Hope Suggs, ΓΠ The University of Georgia

Katie Marie Whalen, KΨ Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

Maia Saree Porter, ZΘ East Central University

Allyson Grace Sullivan, Z University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Kailyn Marie White, HK University of Central Florida

Annalee Elizabeth Posey, ZΨ Jacksonville State University

*Kendall Hollen Tankersley, ZΨ Jacksonville State University

*Morgan Chelsea Woods, Z University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Roz Ruth Rathbone, AZ The Ohio State University

Rana Marie Taylor, ZΨ Jacksonville State University

Delaney Elizabeth Wray, AN Birmingham-Southern College

Rachel Julia Schack, HΓ West Chester University of Pennsylvania

Elizabeth Maria Timas, Θ Bethany College

Carrine Mamie Wright, AZ The Ohio State University

Emma Marie Showalter, AM Washburn University

Katie Elizabeth Tran, ΘΘ Arkansas Tech University

*Allie Rose Zambito, ΔΓ High Point University

35%

of costs are covered by scholarships and grants

AVERAGE AMOUNT OF TIME SPENT WORKING

23%

of costs are covered by parent income and savings

19% HOW AMERICA PAYS FOR COLLEGE

19 hours

Average number of hours college students spend working (many work more than 20 hours a week and some even hold full-time jobs)

of costs are covered by student borrowing

11%

of costs are covered by student income and savings

8%

of costs are covered by parent borrowing

4%

of costs are covered by relatives and friends

1

3

2

4

5

ZTA SISTERS THINK PINK® FROM COAST TO COAST 52 · THEMIS · Points of Pride

6

7 8

10

9 1. The women of Iota Iota Chapter hosted two Pink Out games on Fairleigh Dickinson University’s campus, with the football and field hockey teams. Sisters also honored the field hockey team’s coach, who is currently battling breast cancer.

2. Alumnae from the San Fernando Valley, CA Chapter enjoyed hearing survivors’ stories at their local Making Strides Against Breast Cancer® walk.

3. Pink Out games are a great way to get the community involved in ZTA’s philanthropy. Alumnae from the North Fulton Link of Georgia Chapter hosted one at a local high school and distributed more than 700 Think Pink® ribbons.

4. To prepare for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, alumnae from the Austin, TX Chapter made pink ribbons and took fun pictures in a photo booth.

5. Alumnae members from the Louisville, KY Chapter teamed up with collegians at their local MSABC walk. Sisters took pictures of the survivors and their families and handed out pink ribbons.

6. Alumnae sisters from the Northern Virginia Chapter spread breast cancer awareness to NFL fans at the Washington Redskins’“A Crucial Catch” game.

7. Members of Theta Omicron Chapter (Baylor University) gathered around an outdoor fountain on

campus to participate in the Brighten Up® Workshop from Bright Pink®.

8. Sisters from Theta Iota Chapter (University of North Florida) attended the “A Crucial Catch” game for the Jacksonville Jaguars and distributed pink ribbons.

9. For the second year, Zeta Omega Chapter hosted a 5K color run for members of the Ferris State University community. Participants ran through colored powder and raised funds for the Zeta Tau Alpha Foundation.

10. The women of Lambda Nu Chapter (Furman University) got their community to Think Pink at a women’s soccer Pink Out game. Sisters sold food and pink lemonade and gave pink ribbons to all the fans.

Points of Pride · Winter 2018 · 53

FRATERNITY? SORORITY? WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

By Patti Cords Levitte, Director of Archives & Historical Education, and Susan Beard, Archives Chairman The subject we’re tackling in this issue is one that comes up often when talking about our history with both Zetas and non-Zetas. One of the most-asked questions we get is: “Why is ZTA called a fraternity and not a sorority?”

One might think this would be an easy answer, but like many parts of our earliest history, things aren’t always as clear as they could be. Our Founders weren’t as precise with their wording as we are today. Of the 26 current National Panhellenic Conference organizations, 11 are officially “sororities,” and the other 15? They are all women’s fraternities. The term “sorority” was coined by a professor at Syracuse University in 1882 for Gamma Phi Beta Sorority as a form of the Latin word for “sister.” The other two groups that formed before ZTA at the State Female Normal School—Kappa Delta and Sigma Sigma Sigma—both called themselves sororities. Given that there weren’t really any colleges with women’s groups near Farmville, this might have been the only reference point the Founders had.

Alpha Chapter’s first book of minutes and the first historian’s book have “Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority” on the covers, written in Maud Jones Horner’s handwriting, 54 · THEMIS · Archives

but then refer to ZTA as a “fraternity” on the second pages of both. Maud most frequently used “society” or “Zeta Taus” when writing about ZTA, but those terms fell out of favor very early on. From the early documents of Alpha Chapter, “sorority” and “fraternity” were used interchangeably, and there doesn’t seem to be any reason why one was used over another. Maud herself admitted that she formed ZTA because: “We were not content to be only a club. Each of us belonged to several already, somehow they did not satisfy our longings. We wished to be something stronger and greater, to reach out and have influence wherever we went…”

Maud also expressed her feelings about her new organization in a letter

to a friend at another college not long after ZTA’s founding. She wrote of the purpose behind creating ZTA, and specifically called it a fraternity: “It is the object of this fraternity to cultivate a higher ideal of womanhood and to encourage all those womanly traits existent in our kind, to give a firmer foundation to those friendships founded on college companionships, to promote sympathy in both sorrows and pleasures, to furnish aid and sisterly advice in our school life.”

When ZTA received its legal charter from the General Assembly of the Virginia legislature on March 15, 1902, it was chartered as the “Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority.” Because they had not asked for any classification for the organization, this bothered Maud and Bruce Houston Davis (ZTA’s second Grand President) and spurred them to review all of ZTA’s documents, including the ritual and constitution, and to standardize the wording.

Since they both expected ZTA to grow, Maud and Bruce knew they had to decide exactly what we were to be called before any other people made that decision for us. They both liked the definition of “fraternity” as it refers to a group working toward a common goal and having common interests. At the very first ZTA Convention—in Farmville, Virginia, in June 1903—they made the decision: “Although we were chartered by the legislature of Virginia as the Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority, we shall henceforth be known as the Zeta Tau Alpha Fraternity, thus distinguishing ourselves from the sisterhoods organized in connection with men’s fraternities, called sororities.”

That reasoning was not entirely accurate, but it gave Grand Chapter a basis for distinguishing ZTA from other organizations on their campus, and it made a definite stand for our group identity.

The first, long-lost chapter charter for Alpha Chapter was the only one to ever have “sorority” on it. All we know about this first charter is that it was a yard square and “extremely decorative.”

It went missing in 1906, but if it still existed, it would be an interesting document to compare to the charters we use today. The current charter design has been in place since 1903, and its design follows the decisions made at the Farmville Convention.

Most non-fraternity/sorority members will call any women’s organization a “sorority,” just for the simple reason that it makes more sense to those who don’t know the history and reasons behind the words. We are most definitely a sisterhood, and we are “sorority women,” but our official name will always be Zeta Tau Alpha Fraternity.

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 zetataualpha.org and log in to Sisters Only. Select “Update Information and Privacy Settings.” Or, 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. 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 Rd., Carmel, IN 46032. Subscription: $2 per year.

Single copies: $.50. Periodical postage paid in Indianapolis, IN, and additional mailing offices. Printed in the United States of America.

Postmaster: Send address changes to Themis of Zeta Tau Alpha, 1036 S. Rangeline Rd., Carmel, IN 46032.

Member, Fraternity Communications Association and National Panhellenic Conference. © 2018 Zeta Tau Alpha Fraternity.

No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of Zeta Tau Alpha.

Scholarship List · Winter 2018 · 55

1036 S. RANGELINE RD., CARMEL, IN 46032 ZETATAUALPHA.ORG

56 · THEMIS · Scholarship List