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Metadata
Volume:
Vol. 126
Number:
Issue 2
Date/Date Range:
12/00/2023
Era:
2020s
21st Century
The Lyre of Alpha Chi Omega, Vol. 126, Issue 2, Winter 2023
THE
THE
SEEKING
THE HEIGHTS
ISSUE
H
Calls for
Board
Service
Alumnae
Chapters
Making a
Difference
Anna
SIMUL
Men
10
ARIS
DAWN
AIA
MENON
AIMING FOR THE HIGHEST HEIGHTS
GILLIS
25
WINTER 2023
Alpha Chi Omega
VOLUME 126. ISSUE 2.
REAL. STRONG. WOMEN.
Our Open Motto
BY SALLY CUTLER
(ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY),
USC
HISTORIAN AND ARCHIVIST
stablishing a motto that would unify
Together Let Us Seek The Heights
E
Alpha Chi Omega sisters was noted early
on as an important part of the Fraternity's
statements of value and purpose. Today, Alpha Chi
Omegas of all ages find shared inspiration in the
Fraternity's open motto, "Together let us seek the
heights." But members may not know how the motto
evolved early in the Fraternity's history.
In 1887, two years after our founding, a motto
committee was created. According to minutes from
a May 25, 1887 meeting, the committee put forth a
few suggestions for a motto, which included "Strive
for the highest," "Ye daughters of Music, come up
higher" and "Musical culture, first and last." After
lengthy discussion, "Ye daughters of Music, come up
higher" was chosen and placed in the Fraternity's
Constitution.
When membership in Alpha Chi Omega was
expanded to allow not only music students but
liberal arts students as well, it seemed prudent to
reconsider the open motto in a way that would
THE OPEN MOTTO GREETS VISITORS TO ALPHA CHI
reflect the changing membership while retaining
OMEGA HEADQUARTERS AS THEY WALK IN THE
its key philosophy. According to the first history
FRONT DOORS - AND IS THE PERFECT PLACE FOR
A PHOTO!
book, which was written in 1911, "As the open
motto had become very dear within the Fraternity,
it was considered best to retain its thought as far as
The open motto continues to inspire sisters of all
possible."
ages. Its combination of shared effort and high
aspirations strikes just the right notes. "Together,"
National President Alta Allen Loud (Beta, Albion
the heart of the motto, is a powerful yet comforting
College) suggested the wording "Together let us seek
word, personifying Alpha Chi Omega and our shared
the heights," which was formally adopted as the open
journey as sisters. What will you do to join with
motto at the 1910 National Convention.
sisters to embody our open motto?
FIND MORE UNTOLD STORIES ON THE
ALPHA CHI OMEGA HISTORY WEBSITE. VISIT:
ALPHACHIOMEGA.HISTORYIT.COM
WINTER 2023 VOLUME 126. ISSUE 2. THE SEEKING THE HEIGHTS ISSUE
REAL. STRONG. WOMAN.
IN THIS ISSUE
2
LETTERS AND LYRES
4
CORNER OFFICE
5
PERSPECTIVES
6
AXO NEWS
DVAM recap, centennials,
book club
12
CONVENTION
18
FOUNDATION
36
HOUSING
40
COLLEGIATE CORNER
42
ON CAMPUS
Learn what it's like to transfer
schools and affiliate with a new
chapter
46
CAREER OUTLOOK
Sharing your volunteer
experience when job hunting
54
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
57
INDUSTRY INFO
The College Panhellenic
president experience
58
ALUMNA INITIATE
SPOTLIGHT
48
60
ACCOMPLISHED
Anna Menon (lota Lambda, Texas
ALUMNA
Christian University) - pictured here at
62
ARCHIVES
the 2022 EAA AirVenture convention - is
64
LIFE
in training to launch into space as part of
67
BUSINESS
the Polaris Dawn mission.
Calls for board and NNC service
74
VOLUNTEER
SPOTLIGHT
PHOTO CREDIT FOR ABOVE
75
AXO CONNECTION
AND COVER PHOTO: POLARIS
AND IN MEMORIAM
PROGRAM / JOHN KRAUS
THE LYRE
1
EDITOR'S DESK
Seek
CONTRIBUTORS
HANNAHJANE ARELLANO (IOTA NU, UNIVERSITY
the Heights
OF CALIFORNIA SAN DIEGO)
Amidst conquering cancer's toughest battles,
T
here's
Hannahjane Arellano blazed through her
a lot
experience at UC San Diego, radiating
to love
determination and brilliance. Now, fueled by
about Alpha Chi
resilience and a heart brimming with hope,
Omega's open
she embarks on an enchanting pursuit of legal
motto - "Together
excellence, poised to weave a tale of triumph in the halls of justice.
let us seek the
She shares her collegiate journey on page 40.
heights" - but one
of the aspects that
has always stood
STAFF CONTRIBUTORS
out to me is the
use of the word "seek." It's an intentional
MICHELLE CRITCHFIELD, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF COLLEGIATE GROWTH
choice. The members who wrote our
SALLY CUTLER, HISTORIAN AND ARCHIVIST
motto didn't say "reach," implying that
MEGAN HATFIELD, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION AND
there was an end goal or a terminating
LEADERSHIP INITIATIVES
point. They didn't choose "achieve,"
MORGAN HILL, FOUNDATION COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST
suggesting that there was a prize at the end
LAURA KNOBEL, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF LIFETIME ENGAGEMENT
of the journey.
ERIN PARKS, FOUNDATION OPERATIONS MANAGER
KENDALL SUESS, HOUSING OPERATIONS COORDINATOR
Instead, the word "seek" inspires a constant
EMMA WILLE, MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR
pursuit of excellence. It tells us that our
goals can shift and adapt as we keep our
hearts and minds open to new possibilities.
LYRE SPOTTING
It encourages us to explore and dream, to
empower our sisters and be empowered by
LYRE READERSHIP
them, to strive for more.
SURVEY
I'm grateful for this motto and the way it
Alpha Chi Omega
continues to grow with me over time as
headquarters wants to
my passions and priorities change - all the
know what
while being steadfastly supported by sisters
YOU think
as we go through life together.
of The Lyre.
Scan the
Loyally,
QR code
to answer
LAUREN FILIPPINI
During a trip to Ephesus,
a few brief
ALPHA CHI (BUTLER UNIVERSITY)
Turkey in June, Carlon
questions
MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS
Berryhill Cloud (Delta Rho,
and help us continue
MANAGER
EDITOR, THE LYRE
University of Arkansas) took
providing a magazine that
The Lyre to the Library of
encourages you to connect,
Celsus.
lead, grow and serve!
2 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
Alpha Chi Omega
LINDSAY DUBE (GAMMA RHO, TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY)
National President
Lynne Herndon
Lindsay recently graduated from Texas Tech University with
dual degrees in agricultural communications and creative
National Vice Presidents
Jari Askins
media industries. She's now living in Austin, Texas while
Leslie Abramsky Block
pursuing her master's degree in advertising at The University
Cassie Gerhardt
of Texas at Austin, with the hope of eventually working in the
Jill Sabatino Lacy
advertising industry. Read about her unexpected adventures
Kelli Rodriguez
on page 60.
Chief Executive Officer
Katie Lampinen Gaffin
ELLE MARR (IOTA NU, UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SAN DIEGO)
Senior Director of Education and
Elle Marr is a #1 Amazon Charts bestselling author of four
Engagement
Amy Colvin Mustafa
thrillers. Her latest book, The Family Bones, earned a starred
review from Publishers Weekly, which called it a "mesmerizing
Director of Marketing and
psychological thriller." Originally from Sacramento, Elle
Communications
graduated from UC San Diego before moving to France, where
Amanda Spice
she earned a master's degree from the Sorbonne University in
Marketing and Communications
Paris. She now lives and writes in Oregon with her family. Her next two books,
Manager
The Alone Time and Your Dark Secrets, can be preordered now. Find out more
Lauren Filippini
at ellemarr.com or on social media, and read about her path to becoming an
The Lyre is published quarterly.
author on page 5.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes
to The Lyre
KARLEE BROWN MOORE (RHO, UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON)
5635 Castle Creek Parkway N. Dr.
A former Alpha Chi Omega chapter consultant and editor of
Indianapolis, IN 46250-4304
The Lyre, Karlee has worked in the field of communications
Submission Deadlines
for more than 30 years. She is driven to connecting people in
Fall issue July 1
all aspects of her life. In her professional role, Karlee connects
Winter issue - October 1
Spring issue - January 1
people with messages and helps them manage through
Summer issue - April 1
corporate changes. Outside of work, she loves connecting with
friends, neighbors and Alpha Chi Omega sisters. She shares the
317-579-5050
alphachiomega.org
journey of a sister's out-of-this-world mission on page 48.
editor@alphachiomega.org
LISA YOUNG STIERS (EPSILON OMICRON, INDIANA STATE UNIVERSITY)
Our Mission
Through the Real. Strong. Women.
Lisa celebrated the 30th anniversary of her initiation this
Experience, Alpha Chi Omega
spring and delights in the lifetime of sisterhood she's shared as
cultivates impactful communities
where women are inspired to
an alumna member and volunteer. As a writer, she is grateful
connect, lead, grow and serve.
to share the stories of other member experiences in this issue
of The Lyre; find them on pages 42 and 46.
FCA
Members of the Alpha Omicron Centennial Planning Committee contributed an article
FRATERNITY COMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATION
about the centennial event at The Ohio State University on page 9. Foan Browning
Ketterman (Gamma Xi, Western Michigan University), our convention local volunteer
NPC
chair, wrote about the must-see spots in Indianapolis on page 14.
national panhellenic
THE LYRE
3
CORNER OFFICE
Journeys to the Heights
BY KATIE GAFFIN (DELTA AZETA, CENTRAL MICHIGAN
network of support and a
UNIVERSITY), CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
springboard for personal and
professional growth. Alpha Chi
will admit I struggled to write this quarter's
Omega has been a springboard
I
Corner Office. Not because our theme for this
for my career, as well.
issue, "Seeking the Heights," isn't inspiring - of
course it is! I struggled to find a way to encapsulate all
In the early 1990s I joined the
the ways I see and experience our sisterhood living out
headquarters staff, where I
our open motto - "Together let us seek the heights"
was able to grow and develop
with a 600-word limit!
professionally for the first
five years of my post-graduate
KATIE GAFFIN
As your chief executive officer, I have the opportunity
career. I left our staff in 1997 and, believe it or not, knew
to engage with stakeholders across Alpha Chi Omega
that I would want to return one day and serve as CEO.
in a variety of ways. It is truly amazing to see how our
(Careful what you wish for, right?) In my nearly 20 years
leaders, volunteers, members and professional staff
away from our staff, I gained invaluable professional
work together every day to advance our sisterhood. The
experience in business, communication and consulting
Real. Strong. Women. Experience is dynamic, engaging
- which I now apply daily in my work.
and transformative, and I am fortunate to have had this
experience since joining in 1989.
From classrooms to boardrooms, Alpha Chi Omega
sisters are reaching heights in their respective fields -
The bonds formed and lessons learned throughout our
breaking barriers, achieving "firsts" and paving the way
Alpha Chi Omega journey are carried with us long after
for future generations of women in their industries. The
we leave our collegiate chapter experience, guiding us
Real. Strong. Women. Experience plays a pivotal role in
as we navigate the complexities of the world. Within
equipping our sisters with the tools they need to excel.
Alpha Chi Omega, we find more than friendship and
Our membership experience provides invaluable life
community; we find a platform for empowerment, a
skills, fostering personal growth, leadership and a sense
of pride and purpose.
Beyond academia and careers, our sisters are leaders
in their communities, actively engaging in making a
"Within Alpha Chi Omega
positive impact on the world around them. Through
philanthropic efforts, sisters are uplifting those in need
we find a platform for
and advocating for necessary change. Alpha Chi Omega
empowerment, a network of
can be part of any journey you take and is always here
to meet you when you are ready.
support and a springboard
As we celebrate the heights our sisters have reached,
for personal and
let us also look to the future with unwavering
determination. In the spirit of seeking the heights, let us
professional growth."
remember that our journey is not always defined by the
peaks that we reach, but by the strength and resilience
we demonstrate along the way.
4
ALPHA CHI OMEGA
PCNSPECS
A Lifelong Pursuit
BY ELLE MARR (IOTA NU, UNIVERSITY OF
CALIFORNIA SAN DIEGO)
H
ow did I get here? Frequently, I ask myself this
through a program
question when I am stuck in the soggy middle
recommended by a sister
of a rough draft that's due to my publisher
- all while the desire to
in much less time than I'd prefer. The blinking cursor
create continued to flicker
could be a metronome forcing me to keep pace, or a
inside me.
wagging finger reminding me that I am literally making
this up as I go along. When I have no clue what happens
It was during one
in the next chapter, I wonder: How did I write myself into
very snowy winter
this corner, when I'm the cartographer, the guide and the
in Normandie that
willing tourist who is simply pleased to be along for the ride?
I attempted my first
The answer probably lies somewhere between blaming
National Novel Writing
ELLE MARR
Netflix and its binge-worthy content, and the desire to
Month, or NaNoWriMo.
write something great.
Across four weeks of daily word count goals, I knocked
out 50,000 words, or around 200 pages, of a story I wrote
Ever since I was a kid, I wanted to be a writer. Scribbling
purely to keep myself entertained during heavy snowfall.
nonsense in the pink diaries that used to fill my room,
I would retell stories I knew well and others that
I was hooked. By the time I finished the full draft one
catalogued my day: Today, Kitty refused to sit in my lap. I ate
month later, I was convinced I would get a literary agent
a bowl of Cheerios and it was yummy. Only, when I reached
and publisher shortly. The world needed this masterpiece! A
the veteran age of 10, I got it into my head that I couldn't
year and many, many rejections later, I realized it didn't
be a novelist. That actually filling a 200-page book would
- insert laughing-crying emoji - SO I wrote another story.
be too steep a climb, and not for the likes of a girl from
This one explored the fraught dynamic of twin sisters
a science-oriented household, who already knew that
and the frenzied search for the truth that one sister
writing was too unstable a pursuit. (Sidenote: First-
undertakes when her twin's body is pulled from the Seine
generation-American guilt is real.)
River in Paris. It caught the interest of a literary agent,
then a publisher, then hundreds of thousands of readers
So, I shelved the hopes and dreams of a child. Instead
when it was published in the spring of 2020. I now have
of filling up even more diaries, I won summer reading
four published thrillers, with two more slated for spring
contests. Visited my local library whenever I could
and summer 2024 - a fact that 10-year-old me would have
convince my parents to drive me, and walked out of the
never dared to believe.
Scholastic Book Fair with a box piled high with new
treasures. I dove into high school theatre, then shifted to
The need to write something compelling, that would not
more traditional lanes in college, where I formed lifelong
only capture the reader's attention but hold mine, has
bonds in Alpha Chi Omega. In hindsight, much of my
been a nonstop theme. A passion that wouldn't quite go
adult life was influenced by the incredible sisterhood at
away, and which I didn't ever fully dismiss. No matter
lota Nu: from meeting likeminded, ambitious leaders
where my path ahead takes me, I know I will always have
whose career paths mirrored my own for a time; to
my sisters in Alpha Chi Omega to build me up, to keep
forming core friendships over late-night Golden Spoon
me grounded and, if the situation is truly dire, to be
frozen yogurt; to moving to France to teach English
available for a late-night run for fro-yo.
THE LYRE
5
AXO NEWS
YEARS
domestic
violence
awareness
month
bc
DONUTS
for
(6)
A
ALCHANIC
NE
DVA
BETA NU (UNIVERSITY OF UTAH) MEMBERS SPOKE ABOUT
BETA ETA (FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY) HOSTED A
THEIR EFFORTS TO RAISE AWARENESS ABOUT DOMESTIC
DONUTS FOR DVA FUNDRAISER.
VIOLENCE FOR THEIR LOCAL NEWS STATION.
2023 DVAM in Review
BY MEGAN HATFIELD (ZETA SIGMA, MISSOURI
STATE UNIVERSITY), ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF
EDUCATION AND LEADERSHIP INITIATIVES
IN TOTAL,
103
CHAPTERS RAISED
isters across the country came together to
MORE THAN
$415,000
S
observe Domestic Violence Awareness Month
IN OCTOBER 2023 THROUGH
this October. Alpha Chi Omega has shown
continued commitment to this altruism since its
THE ALPHA CHI OMEGA
adoption in 1992. While we remain devoted to this
FOUNDATION'S COMMUNITY
mission year-round, October serves as a reminder of the
important impact our members can make.
IMPACT PROGRAM!
This October, our focus was on building healthy
communities free from domestic violence. We
encouraged members and campus partners across the
country to consider the ways they can support their
local service providers, which play an integral role in
6
ALPHA CHI OMEGA
our communities by providing essential
services to survivors and their families,
including housing, financial counseling,
mental health therapy and legal assistance.
Both alumnae and collegiate chapters alike
volunteered at and raised money to support
their local service providers.
In addition to our chapters' efforts,
Alpha Chi Omega brought educational
opportunities to our members in a
variety of ways! Chapters received a
new Program with Purpose, "Building
Healthy Communities." This program
used the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention's four-level social-ecological
model to help participants explore the
various factors that influence domestic
violence and asked members to consider specific ways
their chapters can help implement strategies, programs
and events that bring engagement opportunities for
further awareness and prevention.
Alpha Chi Omega was also proud to continue our
partnership with One Love Foundation this year.
We hosted a webinar titled "Let's Talk Healthy
Relationships: A Conversation with One Love," where
85 attendees learned about the 10 signs of healthy and
unhealthy relationships and
the importance of cultivating
and maintaining healthy
relationships of their own and
SUPPORT
in their community.
Thank you for your support in
building healthy communities
and bringing domestic violence
awareness to your community
this October.
TOP: ALPHA ETA ALPHA (JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA)
MEMBERS ATTENDED A BREAKFAST FUNDRAISER FOR A
LOCAL SHELTER.
SAVE THE DATE FOR HEALTHY
BOTTOM: DELTA NU (IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY) TABLED ON
CAMPUS TO SHARE INFORMATION ABOUT DVA.
RELATIONSHIPS WEEK:
FEBRUARY 12-16, 2024!
LEFT: IOTA OMEGA (CARTHAGE COLLEGE) SISTERS SPREAD
AWARENESS DURING DVAM.
THE LYRE
7
A Century of Sisterhood
1923 - 2023
OMEGA
CHI
really
100 YEARS
ALPHA OMICRON
FOUNDED
THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY)
SEPTEMBER 14, 1923
ALPHA P I
FOUNDED
NIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTA)
NOVEMBER 10, 1923
AXO NEWS
100 Years for Alpha Omicron
BY THE ALPHA OMICRON CENTENNIAL
PLANNING COMMITTEE
T
he Alpha Omicron (The Ohio State University)
chapter of Alpha Chi Omega celebrated its
centennial on September 14, 2023. Over the
September 15-17 weekend, chapter sisters gathered at The
Ohio State University to celebrate 100 years of sisterhood.
Friday night, Alpha Omicron sisters met for a social
happy hour held at Ohio Brewing Company to kick off
the weekend. Saturday, a tailgate lunch was hosted at
the chapter house followed by a watch party to view the
Buckeyes game together. Block seating was also offered
at the football game.
On Sunday, the planning committee hosted a celebration
brunch at the Fawcett Center, where more than 200
alumnae and collegians reminisced on chapter history,
ALPHA OMICRON SISTERS WITH THEIR
celebrated membership milestones and recognized
CENTENNIAL PLAQUE
volunteers. The program was hosted by the Centennial
Planning Committee chair, Taylor Tolley Owens (Alpha
Omicron '14), and included information regarding the
by National President Lynne Herndon (Alpha Upsilon,
state of the chapter given by current chapter president
The University of Alabama). All attendees received a Cats
Danielle Guardino (Alpha Omicron '21), the state of the
Meow wooden replica of the current chapter house, and
alumnae given by the Alpha lota Alpha (Columbus, Ohio)
the chapter was presented with its centennial plaque and a
alumnae chapter president Barbara Rice Barta (Alpha
new copy of its original charter to put on display.
Omicron '68) and local house corporation president
Jennifer Diederich Healy (Alpha Omicron '83), and
The weekend came to a close with a dessert reception
concluded with a state of the Enterprise address given
hosted by the local house corporation and Alpha Iota
Alpha. Chapter history was displayed through the
decades, including an original item from every year the
SAVE THE DATE,
chapter has been open and composites lining every wall.
ALPHA UPSILON SISTERS!
House tours were given, cake was shared and memories
While the Alpha Upsilon (The University of
flooded the room as Alpha Omicron sisters reminisced
Alabama) chapter centennial is September 9,
on 100 years of incredible sisterhood.
2024, sisters will celebrate early May 17-18, 2024.
There will be decade reunions on Friday night
Thank you to all who have celebrated Alpha Omicron's
with a ceremony on Saturday and band party
accomplishments over the years, to all who have donated
on Saturday night. Contact Janet Crowder at
in honor of sisterhood, and to the Centennial Planning
jccrowder13@gmail.com or Caroline Fulmer at
Committee for countless hours of planning to make the
csfulmer@ches.ua.edu for more information.
weekend SO special. Cheers to 100 years and 100 more!
THE LYRE
9
AXO NEWS
Read with Sisters in 2024!
T
he Alpha Chi Omega Alumnae Book Club is an online club created specifically for our literature-loving alumnae!
You can connect with alumnae all over the world about the books we're reading. The online group hosts vibrant
discussions about our books and fosters new connections between sisters. Get started by requesting to join the
Facebook group "AXO Alumnae Book Club." We are excited to share our first three books of 2024!
"A world war and a fairy tale collide
treasure: moving, surprising, and
THE NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER
deeply evocative." CHRIS BOHJALIAN, #1 New York Times bestselling author
ROMANTIC
From behind closed doors,
NEW YORK
TIMES
BESTSELLER
The
she sees everything.
COMEDY
SECRET
A
BOOK
CURTIS
FLORA LEA
THE
CO
A NOVEL
SITTENFELD
HOUSEMAID
PATTI CALLAHAN
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING
AUTHOR OF PREP AND ELIGIBLE
HENRY
FREIDA McFADDEN
An absolutely addictive psychological thriller with a jaw-dropping twist
JANUARY 2024
FEBRUARY 2024
MARCH 2024
ROMANTIC COMEDY
THE SECRET BOOK OF FLORA LEA
THE HOUSEMAID
BY CURTIS SITTENFELD
BY PATTI CALLAHAN HENRY
BY FREIDA MCFADDEN
Sally Milz, a sketch writer for a
London, 1939. Hazel and her younger
Working for the Winchesters is
late-night comedy show, is done
sister, Flora, escape to a rural village in
Millie's chance to start over. She
with love after her fair share of
the midst of war. There, Hazel creates
spends her days cleaning, cooking
heartbreaks. She can't help but
tales of a place where they can let
and taking care of their daughter
notice a phenomenon where
their minds wander, but when Flora
while Nina Winchester makes
average-looking men from the show
disappears, Hazel is overcome with
messes, tells lies and treats her
are dating very accomplished and
guilt. Twenty years later, Hazel has
husband, Andrew, poorly. As Millie
beautiful women, which she believes
rebuilt her life in London with a new
gets to know Andrew, she can't
would never happen in the reverse
boyfriend, a classy flat and a career
help but wonder what it would be
- until Noah Brewster, a pop music
at a bookstore. That life is turned
like to live Nina's perfect life. Nina
star and heartthrob, is the host and
upside down when she receives a book
discovers Millie's desires, and it's
musical guest of the show. Their
about the secret, imaginary world
too late for Millie to learn that her
connection is instant, but Sally can't
she created for Flora. Is her beloved
bedroom door only locks from the
help but remind herself that real life
baby sister still alive? A novel full of
outside. Millie reassures herself that
isn't a romantic comedy
twists and turns explores the powerful
the Winchesters don't know her
bonds of sisterhood and the magic of
true identity and all she is really
storytelling.
capable of.
10 CHI OMEGA
WHO DO I YOU KNOW?
Our members are the best resource for helping recruit
real, strong women into the Alpha Chi Omega sisterhood.
If you know a remarkable young
woman who plans to participate in
recruitment on
her campus,
our online
recommendation
form is the best
way to let the
chapter know!
MY.ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG/RECOMMEND
is
CONVENTION
ALPHA
CHI
OMEGA
Convention
SET THE
Registration
Pace
ALPHA CHI OMEGA
2024 NATIONAL CONVENTION
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA
Coming Soon!
S
ave the date for Alpha Chi Omega's 62nd National
to learn from education sessions focused on the role you
Convention and get excited to set the pace July
play in Alpha Chi Omega. Part-time registration includes
12-14, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Convention
a la carte options, with pricing from $100 for a day of
will be held at the JW Marriott Indianapolis, located in
educational sessions to $175 for Carnation Celebration,
central downtown close to White River State Park. The
plus a $50 general registration fee. (An additional fee
hotel is the perfect place to maximize sisterhood time
applies after April 26.) This package is available for sisters
with attendees from across the nation and explore all that
and guests who would like to attend but need a specific
downtown Indianapolis has to offer.
registration option to accommodate their schedules.
Full-time and part-time registration options are available
Registration will open in February 2024. Be sure to check
this year. You'll have the opportunity to choose a path
out the convention website at
that fits your needs, whether it's attending all activities
www.alphachiomega.org/convention for updates as we
throughout the weekend or just a select few. Full-time
race toward July!
registration, the best value for members looking to enjoy
a taste of everything that makes convention special, is
$795 if registered by April 26, 2024. This package includes
REGISTRATION OPENS IN FEBRUARY!
entrance to all meals, national chapter meetings and
educational sessions.
FULL-TIME ATTENDANCE IS $795 IF
REGISTERED BY APRIL 26.
If you prefer to participate in only certain events while
you're in Indianapolis, part-time registration could be
A LA CARTE OPTIONS ARE
right for you! This could allow you, for example, to attend
AVAILABLE AT VARIOUS COSTS AND
Reunion Night Dinner to celebrate individual chapters, or
PARTICIPATION LEVELS.
12 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
Why YOU Should Attend
very two years, Alpha Chi Omegas from all over
REFRESH
E
the country gather for the national convention.
2024 will be our 62nd such event! But what
No matter if you're an active collegiate member or it's
actually happens at convention? What can you expect if
been decades since your initiation, a trip to convention
you've never been?
is the perfect way to refresh your love for our Fraternity.
Surround yourself with the sweet sounds of Ritual
CONNECT
recited by hundreds of sisters.
Alpha Chi Omega is about connection, and there's
Did you know the decision to support domestic
no better place to do that than convention. Reunite
violence awareness was a convention vote? Be present
with sisters you haven't seen since college and network
for history as delegates determine elected leadership
with sisters of all ages as you make new friends. There's
and amendments to our governing documents.
even a special event - Reunion Night Dinner - that
celebrates our collegiate chapters and the bonds we
As one past attendee shared, "Alpha Chi Omega
share.
convention has reignited the fire in my heart to support
One past convention attendee recalled, "At my first
and empower the young women of our sorority.
convention, I knew like three people before I got there.
Alpha Chi Omega is a journey I want to be on forever."
By the end of the first night, I was in the hotel bar,
surrounded by the Texas contingency with 20-30 brand
How will you refresh your Alpha Chi Omega spirit
new sister-friends, many of whom I'm still friends with
in Indianapolis?
17 years later!"
CELEBRATE
Who will you connect with in Indianapolis?
When hundreds of sisters come together for convention,
GROW
we have SO much to celebrate! Be there for the
announcement of Alpha Chi Omega's most prestigious
Lifelong learning is key to the Alpha Chi Omega
awards for chapters and individuals, and recognize the
experience, and convention provides ample
dedication of our 50-, 60- and 75-year members when
opportunities to grow personally, professionally and
they receive their milestone pins. At our 2024 National
in your Alpha Chi Omega role. Education tracks are
Convention, we'll celebrate the way Alpha Chi Omega
intentionally developed for each attendee group SO
has led the race, and we'll set the pace for the future of
you're sure to learn something to take back to your
our beloved organization.
volunteer position or collegiate chapter. And engaging
speakers will provide relevant lessons to help you grow
"Kudos to my 18-year-old self that said yes to
as a real, strong woman.
Alpha Chi on Bid Day! Little did she know how much
this sorority would be such an integral part of shaping
"At age 83, I didn't think I could get this enthused
her life," a past attendee said. "Now I go home with my
and excited about an organization," said another past
star brighter and higher until we see each again and
convention attendee. "I am stoked to meet with my
celebrate even more."
alumnae board to put some of these ideas into motion."
How will you grow in Indianapolis?
WILL YOU join the celebration
IN INDIANAPOLIS?
CONVENTION
Insider's Guide to Indy
BY JOAN BROWNING KETTERMAN (GAMMA) XI,
WESTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY), CONVENTION
LOCAL VOLUNTEER CHAIR
elcome to Indianapolis, home of Alpha Chi
W
Omega headquarters, for the 2024 National
Convention. There is no better sisterhood
experience than spending a weekend with your sisters
from across the country. We know you'll be busy and
have lots to do throughout the weekend, but there's also
a great city you can explore while you're here! I hope to
share some suggestions on what to do.
ABOUT ME
TAKE A STROLL ALONG THE CANAL WALK OR EVEN RENT A
PEDAL BOAT! PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT INDY
My name is Joan Browning
Ketterman, and I will
Champions tour, the Indianapolis Zoo and White River
serve as the convention
Garden, or the Eiteljorg Museum filled with amazing
local volunteer chair. I
Native and western art.
am a graduate of Western
Michigan University, our
Interested in a walk or run? The White River State
Gamma Xi chapter. Since
Park or the Indianapolis Cultural Trail offer a variety
that long ago time at our
of distances with some interesting sights. You can also
chapter house in Kalamazoo,
LOCAL VOLUNTEER CHAIR
book a gondola or pedal boat ride on the canal.
I have been a volunteer
JOAN BROWNING
with our collegiate chapters
KETTERMAN AND
and local alumnae groups. I
HER HUSBAND,
enjoy golf and have taken
KELLY
up pickleball upon retirement. I am fortunate to
have the opportunity to enjoy time with my eight
grandchildren who live close to home! My time
is also spent volunteering for the myriad sporting
events hosted by Indianapolis, such as the Super
Bowl, golf events and the upcoming U.S. Olympic
swimming trials.
THINGS TO DO
While visiting our beautiful downtown, there
WHITE RIVER STATE PARK (ABOVE), THE
COUNTRY'S ONLY CULTURAL URBAN
is SO much to tempt you, such as the many
STATE PARK, IS STEPS FROM THE HOTEL,
attractions within walking distance of the hotel.
AND THE CIRCLE (RIGHT) IS MINUTES
It is hard to choose from the NCAA Hall of
AWAY. PHOTOS COURTESY OF VISIT INDY
14 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
WE ASKED. INDY SISTERS
ANSWERED.
HERE ARE THEIR
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR
YOUR VISIT TO THE CITY:
FAVORITE RESTAURANT AND WHAT TO
ORDER:
Livery - street corn and empanadas
Eagle's Nest (which rotates 360 degrees during
ONE OF THE MANY RESTAURANTS AND BARS FOR
your meal) - baked brie and burrata Caprese salad
SISTERS TO TRY, LIVERY IS JUST OFF MASS AVE. PHOTO
Rick's Café Boatyard - pork tenderloin sandwich
COURTESY OF VISIT INDY
Good Morning Mama's - buttermilk pancakes
PLACES TO EAT
WHERE TO MEET UP WITH SISTERS:
No visit is complete without sampling the variety
Penn & Beech for candle-making
of restaurants. A popular restaurant to book a table
The Garage Food Hall with a stop at the
at (get your reservation early!) is St. Elmo's, known
Bottleworks Hotel to view the art deco designs
for its signature shrimp cocktail. Its sister restaurant,
Monument Circle for a stroll and some history
Harry & Izzy's, is just as delicious! Want to try the
lessons
best deli in Indiana? Head to Shapiro's. The streets of
Walking on the Monon Trail or along the canal
Mass Ave have SO much to offer, they can't be listed!
FAVORITE MUSEUM:
Another stop that sisters need to experience is the
The Children's Museum (and yes, adults can go
Bottleworks District - food and fun. Try your hand
without kids!)
at duckpin bowling, pinball or the many other games
Newfields for the art museum and gardens
after a stop at The Garage Food Hall across the street.
Indiana State Museum
NCAA Hall of Champions
COME EXPLORE AND VOLUNTEER
BEST COFFEE:
And of course, should you want to be
Café Patachou
part of the volunteer team working
Parlor Public House
behind the scenes, greeting
Tea's Me Cafe
sisters or preparing tables for
Coat Check Coffee
meals - we would certainly
Tinker Street Coffee
welcome your help.
BEST HIDDEN GEM IN INDY:
Slippery Noodle Inn
If you'd like to
The Indianapolis Propylaeum to celebrate
volunteer during
women's voices
convention, please
James Whitcomb Riley's gravesite at Crown Hill
email volunteer@
Cemetery for a view of the city skyline
alphachiomega.
Indianapolis City Market for fresh flowers and
org to share your
foods from around the world
interest!
THE LYRE
15
CONVENTION
THEN AND NOW:
Indy
Conventions
1985 NATIONAL CONVENTION PHOTO
DID YOU KNOW INDIANAPOLIS HAS HOSTED THE
address highlighted the new National Council structure
ALPHA CHI OMEGA NATIONAL CONVENTION TWO
of five national vice presidents, a structure that is still used
TIMES BEFORE THIS - IN 1985 AND 2000?
today. The election of these leaders, among others, will
T
he 1985 convention celebrated 100 years of
take place at this year's convention. The 2000 convention
excellence for Alpha Chi Omega. With a record-
held a walk to support victims of domestic violence along
setting number of attendees, more than 1,700
the canal on the banks of the White River, and attendees
Alpha Chi Omegas and guests gathered in Indiana's capital.
listened to keynote speaker Dr. Condoleezza Rice (Gamma
Prior to the start of convention, attendees toured the national
Delta, University of Denver). Alpha Chi Omega also
headquarters building and the Alpha Chi chapter house at
showcased its updated website,
Butler University. In 2024, you'll have the opportunity to
which was quite exciting for the
visit the new headquarters building and the Alpha (DePauw
turn of the century!
LYRE
University) chapter house as an add-on excursion.
Star Booth also made an
1985's Reunion Night included a processional of 149
appearance at the 2000
banners from every chapter established (and at this year's
convention and raised $17,000
convention, we'll see the addition of one new chapter
from sisters honoring one
banner for Lambda Pi at the University of Mississippi, for
another with a star! This
National
a total of 197). The colorful banners decorated the chapter
year's Star Booth, supporting
room and convention center. American Olympic gymnast
the Real. Strong. Women.
Bart Connor addressed Alpha Chis with an engaging talk
Fund, will help our current
on success with intermediate goals.
campaign, Common Bond.
Uncommon Impact., by
During the State of the Fraternity Address, National
providing funding to expand
FALL 2000 LYRE
President D'Alice Coburn Cochran (Alpha Mu, Indiana
and improve programs, sustain
University) noted that Alpha Chi Omega had increased
collegiate chapter success, support individual members,
the number of collegiate chapters throughout campuses
and continue to advocate for domestic violence awareness
and increased alumnae support across the nation. The
and prevention.
1985 convention was also the birthplace of the Centennial
Sash Ceremony, presenting sashes to representatives of
Many traditions we will see at the 2024 convention have
chapters celebrating 100 or more years. The ceremony is
been enjoyed for years. Whether we are joining together
still conducted to this day, and this year eight chapters will
to vote on the business of the Fraternity, enjoying time
receive this honor!
with each other in Indianapolis, or learning how to grow
and prosper as sisters, there is something for everyone.
The 2000 convention brought more than 700 Alpha Chi
Omegas back to Indianapolis to celebrate the theme, "Our
We can't wait to make lifelong memories again in
Heritage, Our Future." The event opened with a delegates
Indianapolis at our 62nd National Convention this
meeting, a "Back Home Again in Indiana" dinner and a
summer! Be on the lookout for registration opening
dessert reception. Alpha Chi's State of the Fraternity
February 2024 and start preparing for the fun!
STAR BOOTH I IS BACK!
The Alpha Chi Omega Foundation's Star Booth is back
for the 2024 convention! Star Booth first launched
in 1988 as a way for sisters to honor one another and
support current and emerging needs of our Fraternity.
Today, gifts to Star Booth support the Real. Strong.
Women. Fund, which allows Alpha Chi Omega to
continue its mission of responding to the needs of our
members today.
Over the years, Star Booth has evolved
Donors can honor a sister or friend with $10 stars
and changed, but the mission has stayed the same
virtually starting July 1, or on-site during convention.
honoring one another while raising critical funds for
As one convention attendee shared, "It is a great feeling
our Fraternity.
to see sisters walking around convention with stars on
their name tags of the many sisters who have honored
Follow Alpha Chi Omega social media and watch your
them."
email for more details about the official launch of Star
Booth ahead of the 2024 National Convention!
COLLEGIATE OPPORTUNITY CONVENTION PAGE!
"Being a page was a
AXO
AXO
AXO
AXQ
AXQ
AXQ
once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."
Take it from Allie Cantalupo, a previous page who said,
"Being a page was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Also,
going to convention for the first time and seeing what
it takes to create such a successful event has inspired me
to continue to go to Alpha Chi Omega conventions for
Are you interested in joining the pit crew at
years to come."
convention? Serving as a convention page is a fun and
exciting opportunity available exclusively to collegiate
This is a great opportunity for current officers or
members. As a convention page, you will meet, work
emerging leaders within the chapter.
and network with alumnae, other collegians, staff
If you're interested in learning more
and board members from across the country. You'll
about this opportunity or know
also work behind the scenes with event and meeting
someone who would make a great
preparations, help during the election process and assist
convention page, scan the QR code
with several other convention activities.
and fill out the form!
THE LYRE
17
FOUNDATION
Sustaining Fraternity Programs
for Real, Strong Women
How Your Gifts to the Foundation Make an Uncommon Impact
BY MORGAN HILL (EPSILON ZETA,
has surpassed its $25 million goal, but it is time to
AUBURN UNIVERSITY), FOUNDATION
go even further. In September 2023, the Foundation
COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST
announced a new campaign goal of $30 million,
making history for Alpha Chi Omega as our largest
n July 2022, the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation
fundraising campaign goal to date. While the goal is
launched Common Bond. Uncommon Impact., a
ambitious, the need is greater than ever before.
$25 million campaign to empower real, strong
In this final year of the campaign, the most
women. The campaign strives to envision a brighter
critical priority remains the same - expanding
future for Alpha Chi Omega by providing funding and
Foundation support for Fraternity programming.
strategic support for four main priorities:
The Foundation exists to uphold the promise of the
Expanding and improving Fraternity programs
Real. Strong. Women. Experience by underwriting
Sustaining collegiate chapter success
the opportunities provided by the Fraternity. Keeping
Supporting individual members
these opportunities relevant and transformative
Continuing the fight to prevent domestic
impacts every member, creating connection, fostering
violence
leadership and encouraging service. The Foundation's
financial support helps keep the Alpha Chi Omega
Thanks to generous support from campaign donors,
experience affordable and accessible for our
the Common Bond. Uncommon Impact. campaign
members.
COLLEGIATE AND ALUMNAE
PROGRAMMING
HISTORICAL
ARCHIVES
Fraternity
Grant
Request
MENTAL HEALTH
RESOURCES
LEADERSHIP
ACADEMY
more!
4 ROTATIONAL
PROGRAMS
DIVERSITY, EQUITY
AND INCLUSION
WOMEN & WISDOM
INITIATIVES
18 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
DONORS' GIFTS HELP KEEP
THE ALPHA CHI OMEGA
EXPERIENCE AFFORDABLE.
51%
of collegiate members
work while in school.
44% of those
work 10-19 hours a week.
19%
of
those
work 20-34 hours a week.
45%
of collegiate members
pay some or all of their dues.
The Foundation supports the Real. Strong.
Women. Experience through annual grants to the
Fraternity. Each year, the Fraternity identifies costs
of its educational and philanthropic activities
and programs that are eligible for funding by the
COLLEGIANS GAIN CONFIDENCE AND SKILLS AT LEADERSHIP
ACADEMY, FUNDED IN PART BY THE FOUNDATION
Foundation under IRS guidelines and submits a grant
request seeking Foundation funding. In response, the
Foundation evaluates its assets and available income
to determine the amount that can be granted toward
ENDOWMENTS CREATED
the Fraternity's request.
DURING THE CAMPAIGN TO
Every year, the Fraternity's need far outweighs the
SUPPORT PROGRAMMING:
available funding, and the Foundation is unable to
meet the entire Fraternity request. For the 2023-
Angela Costley Harris Fund for Fraternity
24 fiscal year, the Fraternity grant request totaled
Programs
more than $2.2 million, out of which the Foundation
Betty Tudor Brown Leadership Fund
was able to support $830,000. This is where our
Jensy Patterson Richards Diversity, Equity
donors and the Common Bond. Uncommon Impact.
& Inclusion Fund
campaign can make a difference for the future!
Judy Evans Anderson Leadership Fund
The Foundation's ultimate goal, and the motivation
Katie Lampinen Gaffin Diversity, Equity &
behind its efforts, is to fulfill the grant request in
Inclusion Fund
its entirety each year. Increased grant amounts
Leadership Academy Fund in Honor of
help keep member dues and fees lower, which is
Angela Costley Harris
especially crucial in our current climate; a bachelor's
degree is more expensive than ever before, and
Marsha King Grady Leadership Fund
more and more members are supporting themselves,
Mary Patricia Lambke Leadership Fund
holding multiple jobs during their time in college.
Pamela Haymes Graham Fund for
Alumnae Programming
Throughout the course of the Common Bond.
Uncommon Impact. campaign, new endowments
Suzy Ball Gunter Memorial Fund
have been created that will provide annual
benefitting Let's Talk Love
distributions to support programs that are part of the
THE LYRE
19
is
FOUNDATION
"The Fraternity
PROGRAMS FUNDED BY THE FOUNDATION HELP SISTERS GROW
AND LEARN
programs that
I received as a
Fraternity grant request. These funds help to ensure
long-term stability and growth of priority programs.
collegiate member
The Impact Fund was also established to accept
larger campaign gifts designated for programming
of Alpha Chi Omega
that can be used immediately in support of the grant.
have helped to shape
The need for programming support will not end after
the campaign but will continue to grow. While these
the real, strong
special funds are incredibly impactful, you can have
woman I am today."
the greatest impact during the campaign and
beyond through annual gifts to the Real. Strong.
- BROOKLYN HAYES
Women. Fund. Gifts to this unrestricted fund provide
(GAMMA XI, WESTERN
the greatest flexibility for the Foundation to support
MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY)
operations and programming and to keep the
collegiate experience accessible and affordable.
Your support moves Alpha Chi Omega forward,
sustaining the vision created by seven women 138
Common Bond
years ago.
Uncommon Impact.
A CAMPAIGN TO EMPOWER REAL, STRONG WOMEN
YOU CAN MAKE AN IMPACT FOR SISTERS!
Make a gift to the Real. Strong. Women. Fund by scanning the QR code.
Create a multi-year pledge to the Impact Fund over and above your annual gift
to the Real. Strong. Women. Fund by visiting
https://give.alphachiomega.org/uncommon.
Contact the Foundation team about establishing a new endowed fund.
20 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
Ensuring the
Accessibility of Education
BY MORGAN HILL (EPSILON ZETA,
someone can't participate. I'm blessed to be in a
AUBURN UNIVERSITY), FOUNDATION
position to create a fund, SO I chose to establish
COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST, AND
an educational assistance fund for members from
ERIN PARKS (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER
my chapter of initiation. | love watching how the
UNIVERSITY), FOUNDATION OPERATIONS
grant enables our members to continue growing in
MANAGER
Alpha Chi Omega with less financial stress."
After academic assistance funds have been
he Individual Support priority of the
T
established, they are included in the list of grants
Foundation's Common Bond. Uncommon
for which collegiate and alumnae members apply
Impact. campaign seeks to help ease the
through the annual application. Once the application
financial burden that some Alpha Chi
closes, the volunteer Scholarships Committee
Omega members face while in school. Endowed
reviews all merit-based applications while the
academic assistance funds provide grants for
Educational Assistance Grants Committee reviews
collegiate and alumnae members to help pay for
the need-based applications.
educational expenses.
Dena Norrod (Delta Zeta, Central Michigan
This transformative difference for sisters begins with
University) serves as the chair of the Scholarships
donations to the Foundation's academic assistance
Committee and shares, "It is a joy to be able to
funds. Gifts to create and grow these funds have a
recognize the amazing work that Alpha Chi Omega
meaningful impact on individual members and help
women are doing. To see the heights that these
improve member retention and chapter academic
real, strong women are able to reach is a privilege,
success. In addition, giving to an endowed fund in
and I love being part of the team that rewards these
honor of a sister who changed your life is a great
activities with grants to help with their educational
way to make an uncommon impact.
expenses."
Alma Scroggins (Alpha Upsilon, The University
Alleviating the financial
of Alabama) says, "Jewel Patterson Howard was
burden of education
chapter advisor of the Alpha Upsilon chapter at
allows sisters to thrive in
Scholarships
The University of Alabama when I pledged in 1967.
are merit-based
the Alpha Chi experience.
She was vivacious, supportive and encouraging. At
Tracy Coleman (Zeta
academic grants.
that time, I didn't realize she was just a few years
Omicron, Vanderbilt
Educational
older than me! Now all these years later Jewel still
University) served on the
provides recruitment support and has for over
assistance grants
Educational Assistance
are need-based
35 years. Supporting the Jewel Patterson Howard
Grants Committee for
Scholarship Fund endowed in her honor is my way
academic grants.
seven years, the last
of showing appreciation for her loyalty to all our
four as chair. She says,
Academic
sisters."
"Alpha Chi Omega
assistance
Donors can give to existing endowed funds or
Foundation scholarships
grants is the
establish a new one, like Emilie Beagle (Upsilon,
and grants give sisters a
collective term for
Millikin University) did!
boost, a little breathing
all scholarships
room, SO they can stay
and educational
"As a long-term chapter advisor, I've seen firsthand
engaged and enjoy
assistance grants
how the rising cost of higher education affects our
the fulfilling collegiate
awarded by the
members. I believe in the experience AXO provides
experience that we all
Foundation.
collegians and don't want finances to be the reason
had."
Continued on next page
THE LYRE
21
FOUNDATION
Once the applications have been reviewed by the
am passionate about
committees, award decisions are made. It's no easy
making a difference
task, as the need is great and there are SO many
for this organization
real, strong women pursuing academic success!
moving forward!"
Many members work during the school year to help
pay for their education, and these awards can give
Recipient Lauren
them more time for classwork, extracurriculars and
Paque (Alpha, DePauw
Alpha Chi Omega.
University) echoes
that sentiment, saying,
"Being able to make an impact on students is
"Alpha Chi has been
something that, as a future educator, | am incredibly
such a meaningful
appreciative of. Students are given opportunities
organization to be
they wouldn't have had otherwise," says Hannah
part of, pushing me to
HANNAH DAVIS
Davis (Alpha Nu, University of Missouri), one of
be my academic best
this year's recipients. "For me, this [grant] means
while developing true
being able to cut back on the number of hours I am
sisterhood. It is an
working each week to focus more on academics!"
honor to be awarded
this scholarship, and
The recipients of academic assistance grants are
it inspires me to keep
pursuing educational dreams in countless fields
working hard!"
and disciplines, all while developing confidence,
leadership and personal growth through Alpha Chi
Do you want to make
Omega.
a difference, too?
Give now at www.
As recipient Katie Reynolds (Gamma Pi, University
alphachiomega.org/
of Tampa) shares, "This honorable award will help
foundation/giving-
me pursue my goals in medicine as an empowering
KATIE REYNOLDS
opportunities/special-
woman in science. I am grateful for the opportunities
funds or contact the
Alpha Chi Omega has brought me thus far, and |
Foundation to learn how
to endow a fund.
Be part of the
BY THE NUMBERS:
uncommon impact
ACADEMIC ASSISTANCE
and support sisters like
AnnaMaria Fernandez
37
(Zeta Chi, Muhlenberg
College), who says,
"Aside from my
new academic assistance funds
multitudinous thanks,
created during the campaign
I know that there is no
combination of words
LAUREN PAQUE
that can properly
$2,237,736
express how grateful
I am to Alpha Chi
donated to scholarship and educational
Omega for its aid
assistance funds during the campaign
in my pursuance of
education."
Continue reading for a
608
full listing of academic
assistance grant
recipients, available
donors to scholarship and
only in the digital issue
educational assistance funds
of The Lyre.
ANNAMARIA FERNANDEZ
22 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
Academic Assistance Grant
Recipients
Congratulations to the following members who were awarded
academic assistance grants by the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation
during the 2022-23 academic year.
ALICE LOHRMAN ANDREWS
Jolie Held (Zeta Upsilon, Case Western Reserve
MICHIGAN SCHOLARSHIP FUND
University)
Megan Elizabeth Hovey (Kappa Omicron, High Point
Qing-Ming Li Leliveld (Theta, University of Michigan)
University)
Jadyn Sayles (Delta Zeta, Central Michigan
Malea Skye Karnes (Gamma Zeta, Kansas State
University)
University)
Alexandra Leah Kazakov (Gamma Theta, University of
ALPHA CHI CHAPTER SCHOLARSHIP
Maryland)
FUND
Mary Elizabeth Lavorato (Alpha Upsilon, The
Jordan Elizabeth Diller (Alpha Chi, Butler University)
University of Alabama)
Sophia Elizabeth Rice (Alpha Chi, Butler University)
Madilyn Lola Lee (Alpha Pi, University of North
Dakota)
Ashleigh Kathryn Mauler (Gamma Zeta, Kansas State
ALPHA CHI EDUCATIONAL
University)
ASSISTANCE FUND
Kamilla Minkina (lota Xi, University of California,
Abigail Grace Dame (Alpha Chi, Butler University)
Riverside)
Aaleiha Maye Herring (Kappa Omega, Indiana
Kathryn Elizabeth Reardon (Lambda Pi, University of
University-Purdue University Indianapolis)
Mississippi)
Cristiana Marie Rosa (Delta Zeta, Central Michigan
Hailey Reynolds (lota Tau, California State University
University)
San Marcos)
Juliette Marie Woodcum (Zeta Theta, Brown
Catharine WeiMei Stockstill (Alpha Upsilon, The
University)
University of Alabama)
Shawn Avery Tucker (Alpha Upsilon, The University
ALPHA CHI SCHOLARS FUND
of Alabama)
Tina Julienne Valenza (Zeta Eta, Bradley University)
Olivia Lynn Antoniolli (Gamma Xi, Western Michigan
University)
ALPHA DELTA CHAPTER
Emily Cecilia Armand (Beta Psi, Louisiana Tech
University)
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Veronica Alexis Banat (Theta Psi, Columbia
Keirsten Marcy (Zeta Upsilon, Case Western Reserve
University)
University)
Lauren Whitney Beavers (Delta Rho, University of
Arkansas)
ALPHA GAMMA ALPHA GEORGIA
Abby Kristin Dolan Benton (Gamma Theta, University
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
of Maryland)
Maddison Bulman (Sigma, University of Iowa)
Hannah Marie O'Kelley (Beta Sigma, University of
Madison Olivia Deane (Kappa Omicron, High Point
Georgia)
University)
Lilly Madison Wood (Beta Sigma, University of
Stephanie Alyssa Hallerman (Kappa Omicron, High
Georgia)
Point University)
THE LYRE
23
POUNDATION
ALPHA KAPPA CENTENNIAL
ASHLEE TOWNSEND CRIBB
EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE GRANT
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Isabella Farwell Sommers (Alpha Kappa, University of
Margaret Grace Bradley (Epsilon Phi, Georgia
Oregon)
Institute of Technology)
Nidhi Reddy (Epsilon Phi, Georgia Institute of
ALPHA NU CENTENNIAL
Technology)
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
BARBARA EGERTON BRADY TILLERY
Lily Ann Terrell (Alpha Nu, University of Missouri)
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
ALPHA ZETA UNDERGRADUATE
Julia Chamberlin (Epsilon Chi, University of North
FUND IN MEMORY OF KAY ROH
Carolina at Chapel Hill)
Ella James Ardizoni (Delta Chi, William Woods
BARBARA PIERCE EMPLOYEE
University)
Paige Reann Davis (Alpha Nu, University of Missouri)
EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE FUND
Macie Erin Edwards (Delta Chi, William Woods
Allison J. Foster (Gamma Chi, Stetson University)
University)
Julie Goldsberry
Karissa Carolyn Wichmann (Alpha Nu, University of
Melissa Perez Ramirez (Beta Omega, The University
Missouri)
of Toledo)
ANGELA COSTLEY HARRIS
BEL LARUE NEAL FUND
EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE FUND
Macie Faye Barker (Alpha, DePauw University)
Anna Elizabeth Azim (Theta, University of Michigan)
Miranda Christine Bognar (Alpha, DePauw University)
Qing-Ming Li Leliveld (Theta, University of Michigan)
Reagan Elizabeth Dees (Alpha, DePauw University)
Dechhen Karmo Sherpa (Theta, University of
Tam Thanh My Ngo (Alpha, DePauw University)
Michigan)
Lauren Morgan Paque (Alpha, DePauw University)
Rita Nicole Vega (Theta, University of Michigan)
Samantha Anne Pinnick (Alpha, DePauw University)
ANGELS OF PI CHAPTER
BETA CHI SCHOLARSHIP FUND
SCHOLARSHIP
IN MEMORY OF KATHERINE IONE
REDMOND
Arnela Colic (Pi, University of California, Berkeley)
Dina Rose Katgara (Pi, University of California,
Charlotte Brianne Jackson (Beta Chi, Willamette
Berkeley)
University)
Courtney Janae St. Onge (Beta Chi, Willamette
ANNE FOLRATH GERHART CARLA
University)
HENKE MATTSON FUND
Quinna Avery Sypher (Beta Chi, Willamette
University)
Soumya Bysani (Alpha Nu, University of Missouri)
Hannah Nicole Davis (Alpha Nu, University of
BETA EPSILON CHAPTER
Missouri)
SCHOLARSHIP IN MEMORY OF MARY
Abby Marie Bell Harper (Alpha Nu, University of
Missouri)
BETH KNOX
Morgan Elizabeth Porter (Alpha Nu, University of
Ashley Patterson (Beta Epsilon, Michigan State
Missouri)
University)
ANNE PEEL HOPKINS FUND
BETTY THOMAS MARSHALL
Anna M. Gross (Gamma Xi, Western Michigan
- THOMAS VAN PATTEN
University)
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Lauren Massey (Zeta Omega, Western Carolina
University)
Christabel Elizabeth Forney (Delta Nu, lowa State
University)
24 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
BONNIE HOUSE ANDREWS FUND
Leah Dee Batisan (Delta Omicron, Portland State
Sara Casareto (Gamma Pi, University of Tampa)
University)
Athena Crane (Delta Omicron, Portland State
Kayla Elizabeth Gray (Zeta Upsilon, Case Western
University)
Reserve University)
Ashley Marie Pendleton (Delta Chi, William Woods
Josephine Van Do (Delta Omicron, Portland State
University)
University)
Emily Phan Le (Delta Omicron, Portland State
University)
BRANDOLYN DICKEY HENDERSON
Hannah Marie Montgomery (Delta Omicron, Portland
MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND
State University)
Emily Grace Barton (Psi, The University of Oklahoma)
CLAUDIA STEELE BAKER
BURNETTE GRIMES JONES
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Kathleen Murray Wirth (lota Psi, Elon University)
Akimi Lloret Nagano (Omega, Washington State
University)
COURTNEY STEWART ASHLEY
KNIGHT NELSON MEMORIAL
CAROL EDMUNDSON HUTCHESON
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE FUND
Danielle Sophia Alam (Epsilon Kappa, California State
Savannah Baker (lota Rho, Loyola University Chicago)
University, Fullerton)
Cassidy Lewis (Epsilon Omega, Cal Poly, San Luis
Hailey Dawn Gecgil (Epsilon Kappa, California State
Obispo)
University, Fullerton)
Keirsten Marcy (Zeta Upsilon, Case Western Reserve
Genevieve Camille Khoury (Epsilon Kappa, California
University)
State University, Fullerton)
Jacqueline Sierra Maze (Gamma Chi, Stetson
University)
Kelsey Ann Moisan (Alpha, DePauw University)
Ny Truc Nguyen Duong (Delta Mu, University of
Massachusetts)
"Joining
Libby Marie Petrie (Delta Rho, University of Arkansas)
Corinna Maria Robinson (Beta Omicron, Florida
Alpha Chi
Southern College)
Omega
Sarah Whitmore Stucky (Rho, University of
Washington)
has
CATHY SMITH BORAGNO
enriched
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
my college
Ashley Wang Searcy (Epsilon Psi, University of
California, Irvine)
experience by giving
me a group of strong
CHAVEZ CURRIE FAMILY
EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE FUND
women to enhance
Julia Rose Bradley (Alpha Upsilon, The University of
and support my
Alabama)
educational dreams."
CHERYL MAIZE EDUCATIONAL
- JADYN SAYLES (DELTA ZETA,
ASSISTANCE FUND FOR DELTA
CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY)
OMICRON CHAPTER
Jaeyden Orion Ballou (Delta Omicron, Portland State
University)
THE LYRE
25
POUNDATION
DARLINE REILEY COOLEY
DENSLOW SCHOLARSHIP FUND
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Anna Pipinos (lota Nu, University of California San
Kyera Blue Lutton (Beta Chi, Willamette University)
Diego)
Courtney Janae St. Onge (Beta Chi, Willamette
University)
DONNA SMITH CHERECK
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
DEE DEE BYCHAK STOLSHEK
Isabelle Marcus (Alpha Phi, The University of Texas at
MEMORIAL FUND
Austin)
Danielle Sophia Alam (Epsilon Kappa, California State
University, Fullerton)
DOROTHEA DEKAY SCHICK
Genevieve Camille Khoury (Epsilon Kappa, California
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
State University, Fullerton)
Alayne Michelle Heisler (Xi, University of Nebraska -
Lincoln)
DELTA CHAPTER EDUCATIONAL
Samantha Nicole Humphrys (Beta Eta, Florida State
ASSISTANCE FUND
University)
Sarah Rose Allison (Delta, Allegheny College)
Aliya Jo Oceguera (Xi, University of Nebraska -
Lincoln)
DELTA EPSILON 50TH ANNIVERSARY
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
EDNA HOFFMAN BOWMAN FUND
Vivian C. Noyd (lota Lambda, Texas Christian
Madelyn Jane Hall (Psi, The University of Oklahoma)
University)
EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE FUND
IN HONOR OF KAPPA OMICRON
Madison Olivia Deane (Kappa Omicron, High Point
University)
Megan Elizabeth Hovey (Kappa Omicron, High Point
"Your
University)
generosity
ELEANOR FOX SCHOLARSHIP FUND
is going
Courtney Janae St. Onge (Beta Chi, Willamette
University)
to allow
ELEANOR SMITH FOX EDUCATIONAL
me to
ASSISTANCE FUND
finish my
Grace Ann McNamara (Psi, The University of
bachelor's degree
Oklahoma)
financially stress-
ELLEN SCHALK - FEILD MEMORIAL
free, and that is the
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Kassidy Brooke Bailey (Kappa Sigma, The University
greatest gift anyone
of Southern Mississippi)
could ask for."
Abigail Grace Dame (Alpha Chi, Butler University)
Gianna Marie Foisy (Beta Phi, Bowling Green State
- HANNAH MONTGOMERY (DELTA
University)
OMICRON, PORTLAND STATE
Petra D. Frans (Omicron, Baker University)
UNIVERSITY)
Paloma Simone Gasparov (Alpha Psi, UCLA)
Alia Hope Graham (Lambda Mu, Trinity College)
Kayla Marie Hannah (Beta Eta, Florida State
University)
26 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
Sara Hassler (Gamma Chi, Stetson University)
EPSILON OMICRON LOVE AND
Aaleiha Maye Herring (Kappa Omega, Indiana
LOYALTY FUND
University-Purdue University Indianapolis)
Julia Grace Koren (Beta Eta, Florida State University)
Riley Marie Murphy (Epsilon Omicron, Indiana State
Ansleigh Paige Lewis (Delta Pi, University of
University)
Tennessee, Knoxville)
Tania Lopez Gutierrez (Theta Psi, Columbia
EPSILON PSI CHAPTER 30TH
University)
ANNIVERSARY SCHOLARSHIP
Jacqueline Sierra Maze (Gamma Chi, Stetson
Nicole Julie Kirkorian (Epsilon Psi, University of
University)
California, Irvine)
Colleen Patricia McGuire (Theta Upsilon, University of
Brianna Lynn Ma (Epsilon Psi, University of California,
South Carolina)
Irvine)
Claire Jianju Mills (Zeta Lambda, University of
Virginia)
EPSILON ZETA 50TH ANNIVERSARY
Haileigh Elizabeth Moore (Kappa Omicron, High Point
University)
FUND
Charlotte Ann Morse (Gamma Xi, Western Michigan
Corinne Elizabeth Cheramie-White (Epsilon Zeta,
University)
Auburn University)
Laura Munoz (Zeta Theta, Brown University)
Hayley Elizabeth Nowak (Beta Rho, American
ERICA LYN BOWDEN MEMORIAL
University)
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Libby Marie Petrie (Delta Rho, University of Arkansas)
Corinna Maria Robinson (Beta Omicron, Florida
Nicole Alex Kozney (Beta Lambda, University of
Southern College)
Arizona)
Clara Christine Silva (Delta Omicron, Portland State
University)
ERNESTINE FISCHER LAMBERTUS
Jaylene Sosa (Beta Eta, Florida State University)
FUND
Jessica Skye Wenner (lota Psi, Elon University)
Olivia Florence Zimmerman (Zeta Tau, Villanova
MaKayla Sue Benson (Sigma, University of Iowa)
Alia Hope Graham (Lambda Mu, Trinity College)
University)
Chloe Ming-hui Ku (Zeta Upsilon, Case Western
Reserve University)
EPSILON CHI CHAPTER
Hayley Elizabeth Nowak (Beta Rho, American
EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE FUND
University)
Julia Chamberlin (Epsilon Chi, University of North
Mahnoor Zahid (Alpha, DePauw University)
Carolina at Chapel Hill)
Caroline Wall Day (Epsilon Chi, University of North
FLORENCE ARMSTRONG
Carolina at Chapel Hill)
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Ellen Theresa Pruss (Epsilon Chi, University of North
Carolina at Chapel Hill)
Hayley Elizabeth Nowak (Beta Rho, American
University)
EPSILON KAPPA SCHOLARSHIP IN
FLORENCE STAIGER LONN
MEMORY OF CHRISTIAN NEIL BEHLE
EDUCATIONAL FUND
Clara Filippa Linnea Oscarson (Epsilon Kappa,
California State University, Fullerton)
Kassidy Brooke Bailey (Kappa Sigma, The University
Tatiana Marie Temelo (Epsilon Kappa, California State
of Southern Mississippi)
University, Fullerton)
MaKayla Sue Benson (Sigma, University of Iowa)
Harli Alexis Webster (Epsilon Kappa, California State
Julia Rose Bradley (Alpha Upsilon, The University of
University, Fullerton)
Alabama)
Phoebe Frances Bunting (Epsilon Zeta, Auburn
University)
Arnela Colic (Pi, University of California, Berkeley)
Campbell Grace Collinsworth (Alpha Chi, Butler
University)
THE LYRE
27
POUNDATION
Melody Marie Coronado (Pi, University of California,
Quinna Avery Sypher (Beta Chi, Willamette
Berkeley)
University)
Natalie Alicia Davies (Delta Lambda, Ripon College)
Amanda Thazin Tanaka (Pi, University of California,
Kylie Anne Doyle (Beta Delta, College of William &
Berkeley)
Mary)
Sara Grace Travis (Delta Pi, University of Tennessee,
AnnaMaria Fernandez (Zeta Chi, Muhlenberg
Knoxville)
College)
Jessica Skye Wenner (lota Psi, Elon University)
Katelyn McKenna Flynn (Gamma Zeta, Kansas State
Juliette Marie Woodcum (Zeta Theta, Brown
University)
University)
Gianna Marie Foisy (Beta Phi, Bowling Green State
University)
FLORIDA SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Petra D. Frans (Omicron, Baker University)
Delaney Ann Fry (Rho, University of Washington)
Emily Frances McGuckin (lota Lambda, Texas
Emily Gamache (Gamma Sigma, University of Rhode
Christian University)
Island)
Madison Michelle Hartling (Gamma Sigma, University
FOUNDERS' FELLOWSHIP FUND
of Rhode Island)
Hope Isabella Crossley (Alpha Psi, UCLA)
Aaleiha Maye Herring (Kappa Omega, Indiana
Isabella Farwell Sommers (Alpha Kappa, University of
University-Purdue University Indianapolis)
Oregon)
Caroline Kostic (Kappa Xi, University of West Florida)
Lilly Madison Wood (Beta Sigma, University of
Lauren Shen Ying Lee (Theta Psi, Columbia
Georgia)
University)
Kaitlyn Marie Manning (Zeta Psi, Loyola University
FRANCES PATTON WILSON
New Orleans)
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Keirsten Marcy (Zeta Upsilon, Case Western Reserve
University)
Macie Faye Barker (Alpha, DePauw University)
Savannah E. Matherly (Zeta Omega, Western Carolina
Miranda Christine Bognar (Alpha, DePauw University)
University)
Reagan Elizabeth Dees (Alpha, DePauw University)
Rebecca Nicole May (Beta Chi, Willamette University)
Tam Thanh My Ngo (Alpha, DePauw University)
Jacqueline Sierra Maze (Gamma Chi, Stetson
Lauren Morgan Paque (Alpha, DePauw University)
University)
Kate Lynn Pederson (Alpha, DePauw University)
Rachel Ann McNeal (Zeta Nu, Texas A&M University)
Samantha Anne Pinnick (Alpha, DePauw University)
Charlotte Ann Morse (Gamma Xi, Western Michigan
Matigan Natana Williams (Alpha, DePauw University)
University)
Laura Munoz (Zeta Theta, Brown University)
FRANCES TUTTLE CASBARIAN
Ny Truc Nguyen Duong (Delta Mu, University of
ALPHA TAU SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Massachusetts)
Sara Lauren Allen (Alpha Tau, University of New
Hannah Marie O'Kelley (Beta Sigma, University of
Hampshire)
Georgia)
Grayson Pitt (Zeta Omicron, Vanderbilt University)
Mariajose Ramirez (Kappa Upsilon, Florida
GENEVIEVE M. RASCO
International University)
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Hailey Reynolds (lota Tau, California State University
Mara Emily Pilgrim (Beta, Albion College)
San Marcos)
Michaley Paige Vieau (Beta, Albion College)
Jasmyn Audriana Sams (Gamma Sigma, University of
Rhode Island)
GERTRUDE GALBRAITH WIEGMAN
Jadyn Sayles (Delta Zeta, Central Michigan
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
University)
Jaylene Sosa (Beta Eta, Florida State University)
Amber Ann Leigh Anderson (Alpha Pi, University of
Ashley Stojkov (Alpha Omicron, The Ohio State
North Dakota)
University)
Madison Olivia Wilson (Alpha Pi, University of North
Ashley Streitmatter (Zeta Eta, Bradley University)
Dakota)
Payton Grace Sullivan (Rho, University of
Washington)
28 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
Kayly Michelle Cofer (Epsilon Zeta, Auburn
University)
"Because
Dulce Sofia Depaz (Alpha Tau, University of New
Hampshire)
of this, I
Reegan Bryn Huennerkopf (Beta Omicron, Florida
Southern College)
can focus
Destiny Eileen Ellis Kramer (Theta lota, Baylor
University)
more
Selma Maric (lota Psi, Elon University)
on my
Kamilla Minkina (lota Xi, University of California,
Riverside)
studies
Elliana Marie Pahlman (Alpha Lambda, University of
and continue to
Minnesota)
Flora Myrle Pollack (Alpha Lambda, University of
pursue opportunities
Minnesota)
Elyanna Rondon (Alpha Omicron, The Ohio State
in the field of family
University)
Ana Valeria Vazquez Navas (Theta Psi, Columbia
law and children
University)
advocacy."
Lilly Madison Wood (Beta Sigma, University of
Georgia)
- KATE HERNDON (ALPHA UPSILON,
Lauren Elizabeth Young (Beta Sigma, University of
THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA)
Georgia)
HELEN B. STEG SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Rose Dunlap (Delta Zeta, Central Michigan
GLORIA MAE NELSON MEMORIAL
University)
SCHOLARSHIP FUND FOR ALPHA
Jadyn Sayles (Delta Zeta, Central Michigan
University)
LAMBDA
Elliana Marie Pahlman (Alpha Lambda, University of
HELEN LEYTZE RADCLIFFE
Minnesota)
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Flora Myrle Pollack (Alpha Lambda, University of
Minnesota)
Jordyn Faith Hirsch (Nu, University of Colorado
Boulder)
HANNAH KEENAN SCHOLARSHIP
HONORABLE HARRISON W. EWING
FUND
FELLOWSHIP
Julia Rose Bradley (Alpha Upsilon, The University of
Alabama)
Courtney Jayne Lekai (Alpha Upsilon, The University
Abigail Grace Dame (Alpha Chi, Butler University)
of Alabama)
Christabel Elizabeth Forney (Delta Nu, lowa State
Cassidy Lewis (Epsilon Omega, Cal Poly, San Luis
University)
Obispo)
Abigail Nicole Fulton (Alpha Chi, Butler University)
Kaitlyn Marie Manning (Zeta Psi, Loyola University
Kendall Ogin (Gamma, Northwestern University)
New Orleans)
Madeline Elizabeth Orgen (Zeta Pi, Arizona State
Riley Jordan Marelli (Zeta Psi, Loyola University New
University)
Orleans)
Grayson Pitt (Zeta Omicron, Vanderbilt University)
Charlotte Ann Morse (Gamma Xi, Western Michigan
University)
HARRIET THWING HOLDEN
Diana Rose Yoraschek (lota Phi, Quinnipiac
University)
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Brynn Campbell Arnold (Alpha Lambda, University of
Minnesota)
THE LYRE
29
FOUNDATION
JANE BIRD LOHSE SCHOLARSHIP
Alayne Michelle Heisler (Xi, University of Nebraska -
"It is an
Lincoln)
honor to
Kelly Lynn Kozol (Xi, University of Nebraska - Lincoln)
Aliya Jo Oceguera (Xi, University of Nebraska -
be a real,
Lincoln)
Mikayla Christine Schroeder (Phi, University of
strong
Kansas)
woman
JANET H RADFORD EDUCATIONAL
and part
ASSISTANCE FUND
of something bigger
Elizabeth Grace Lyman (Chi, Oregon State University)
than myself."
JANET MARIE BRADLEY BROWN
BALL BREECE MEMORIAL
- SARA KREMITZKI (EPSILON
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
OMICRON, INDIANA STATE
UNIVERSITY)
Kassidy Brooke Bailey (Kappa Sigma, The University
of Southern Mississippi)
JEANNE SCHARNBERG STAFF
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
HORTENSE OSMUN MILLER -
Gabi Lauren Arthur (Alpha Mu, Indiana University)
HORTENSE MILLER ADAMS
Emily Rose Barsantee (Alpha Mu, Indiana University)
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Lexi Lea-Ann Danielson (Alpha Mu, Indiana
Annie Abigail Murphy (Theta, University of Michigan)
University)
Lauren Grace Schleiter (Theta, University of
Isabelle Marie DeCastro (Alpha Mu, Indiana
Michigan)
University)
Elaine Elizabeth Dorsey (Alpha Mu, Indiana
HOWARD AND JEANNE KARR
University)
EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE FUND
Chloe Eades (Alpha Mu, Indiana University)
Lilly Jane Fair (Alpha Mu, Indiana University)
Jacqueline Sierra Maze (Gamma Chi, Stetson
Eleanor Elizabeth Konow (Alpha Mu, Indiana
University)
University)
Victoria Lukyan (Alpha Mu, Indiana University)
IOTA IOTA ALUMNAE CHAPTER
Ellie Ann Pedersen (Alpha Mu, Indiana University)
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
JEANNETTA LAND FUND
Elle Logan Baker (Rho, University of Washington)
Phoebe Frances Bunting (Epsilon Zeta, Auburn
IOTA LAMBDA CHAPTER
University)
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Corinne Elizabeth Cheramie-White (Epsilon Zeta,
Auburn University)
Madison Priscilla Bennett (lota Lambda, Texas
Kayly Michelle Cofer (Epsilon Zeta, Auburn
Christian University)
University)
Sophie Camille Dishman (Epsilon Zeta, Auburn
JAN CRANDALL MEMORIAL
University)
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Emily Beatrice Grant (Epsilon Zeta, Auburn University)
Lily Grace Wilson (Epsilon Zeta, Auburn University)
Ruby Katherine Boswell (Omicron, Baker University)
Petra D. Frans (Omicron, Baker University)
30 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
JESSIE FANYO PAYNE FUND
JUDITH ZIEGLER PHILLIPS FUND IN
Shawn Avery Tucker (Alpha Upsilon, The University
HONOR OF GAMMA LAMBDA
of Alabama)
Sara Elizabeth Kremitzki (Epsilon Omicron, Indiana
State University)
JO ANN C KENT EDUCATIONAL
Anna Kathryn Richie (Lambda Pi, University of
ASSISTANCE FUND FOR GAMMA
Mississippi)
CHAPTER
JULIE ANN TAMBORINO MEMORIAL
Alex Perry (Gamma, Northwestern University)
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Libby Raymond (Gamma, Northwestern University)
Tessa Wesley Neal (Theta Upsilon, University of
JOAN ROSSIN STEPHANS GRADUATE
South Carolina)
EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE FUND
Noelle Lucienne Sarafian (Theta Upsilon, University
of South Carolina)
Savannah E. Matherly (Zeta Omega, Western Carolina
University)
JULIE CAIN BURKHARD BETA SIGMA
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
JOAN ROSSIN STEPHANS
UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATIONAL
Kayleigh Gayle Hammond (Beta Sigma, University of
Georgia)
ASSISTANCE GRANT
Cayce Carmichael Sherer (Beta Sigma, University of
Keirsten Marcy (Zeta Upsilon, Case Western Reserve
Georgia)
University)
Grace Elizabeth Zimmerman (Beta Sigma, University
of Georgia)
JODY BAYER MARTINDILL
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
KAPPA NU CHAPTER EDUCATIONAL
Kate Lynn Pederson (Alpha, DePauw University)
ASSISTANCE FUND
Matigan Natana Williams (Alpha, DePauw University)
Grayce Henderson (Kappa Nu, Carnegie Mellon
University)
JOHN EDWARD HURLEY, JR.
SCHOLARSHIP
KAREN E. WEIR MEMORIAL FUND
Emily Jane Barton (Upsilon, Millikin University)
Akimi Lloret Nagano (Omega, Washington State
Meredith Ann Brown (Omicron, Baker University)
University)
Mia Rose Pogach (Kappa Nu, Carnegie Mellon
University)
LARETTA MATTHEWS GARLAND
Mikayla Christine Schroeder (Phi, University of
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Kansas)
Dechhen Karmo Sherpa (Theta, University of
Veronica Alexis Banat (Theta Psi, Columbia
Michigan)
University)
Meredith Ann Brown (Omicron, Baker University)
Anna Pipinos (lota Nu, University of California San
JONES MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Diego)
FUND
Macie Faye Barker (Alpha, DePauw University)
LAUREN SNOW MEMORIAL
Kate Lynn Pederson (Alpha, DePauw University)
SCHOLARSHIP FUND FOR CHI
Matigan Natana Williams (Alpha, DePauw University)
CHAPTER
JUDITH THOMAS VIGOR
Katherine Dougherty (Chi, Oregon State University)
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Keirsten Marcy (Zeta Upsilon, Case Western Reserve
University)
THE LYRE
31
FOUNDATION
LAVONE WOHLBIER BARTINE/LISA
Lauren Massey (Zeta Omega, Western Carolina
BARTINE FERGUSON SCHOLARSHIP
University)
FUND
Jacqueline Sierra Maze (Gamma Chi, Stetson
University)
Brynn Campbell Arnold (Alpha Lambda, University of
Reagan Alyse Nieves (Delta Omega, University of
Minnesota)
Kentucky)
Flora Myrle Pollack (Alpha Lambda, University of
Emily Lynn Reed (Epsilon Upsilon, Mississippi State
Minnesota)
University)
Lauren Grace Schleiter (Theta, University of
LILLIAN POLLACK CAWLEY FUND IN
Michigan)
HONOR OF GAMMA LAMBDA
Michaley Paige Vieau (Beta, Albion College)
Jessica Skye Wenner (lota Psi, Elon University)
Megan Ann Korosy (Alpha Eta, University of Mount
Union)
MARION MORITZ FUND
Savanah Mariah Valadez (Gamma Rho, Texas Tech
University)
Mikaela Lawrence (Xi, University of Nebraska -
Lincoln)
LINA BAUM VAN ROY SCHOLARSHIP
FUND
MARJORIE CARTER BRECKNER
MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Abigail Jia Qi Gan (Theta lota, Baylor University)
Hayley Makayla Koon (Alpha Eta, University of Mount
LINDSEY SELLECK TIDWELL
Union)
SCHOLARSHIP FOR TERRY COLLEGE
MARSHA KING GRADY
OF BUSINESS
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Casey Brianna Maguire (Beta Sigma, University of
Georgia)
Kate Elizabeth Herndon (Alpha Upsilon, The
University of Alabama)
LISA HANCOCK REHRIG
MARY EMMA GRIFFITH MARSHALL
EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE FUND
FELLOWSHIP FUND
Cassidy Lewis (Epsilon Omega, Cal Poly, San Luis
Obispo)
Arnela Colic (Pi, University of California, Berkeley)
Ashley Yang (Pi, University of California, Berkeley)
Kayla Mackenzie Delpino (Epsilon Chi, University of
North Carolina at Chapel Hill)
MARIAN MCKEE SMITH-ROSALIE -
MARY FRANCES GUILBERT
MCKINNEY JACKSON SCHOLARSHIP
MARIAN - BIGLER CONTINUING
FUND
EDUCATION FUND
Raegan Clark Barton (Gamma Rho, Texas Tech
University)
Karen E. Klein (Gamma Omicron, Marshall University)
Hannah Marie Bolender (Zeta Upsilon, Case Western
Emily Nicole Price (lota Alpha, Alumnae Initiates)
Reserve University)
Shenequa Scott (lota Alpha, Alumnae Initiates)
Natalie Taylor Davis (Alpha Upsilon, The University of
Alabama)
MARY MCMURTRY WINKLER FUND
AnnaMaria Fernandez (Zeta Chi, Muhlenberg
FOR EPSILON ZETA CHAPTER
College)
Phoebe Frances Bunting (Epsilon Zeta, Auburn
Madelyn Jane Hall (Psi, The University of Oklahoma)
University)
Aaleiha Maye Herring (Kappa Omega, Indiana
Corinne Elizabeth Cheramie-White (Epsilon Zeta,
University-Purdue University Indianapolis)
Auburn University)
Jordyn Faith Hirsch (Nu, University of Colorado
Boulder)
Lydia Lee (Delta Nu, lowa State University)
32 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
MARY STARKWEATHER FAUST
PATRICIA O'BRIEN FRECHETTE
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
SCHOLARSHIP FUND FOR GAMMA
Sarah Kaye Carpenter (Alpha Omega, Birmingham-
CHAPTER
Southern College)
Brinlee O'Neale Foreman (Beta Eta, Florida State
University)
MARY TAYLOR SMITH, MARILYN
Josalyn Khezemi Jado (lota Omega, Carthage
SMITH GRACE & PATRICIA SMITH
College)
JENKINS FUND
Grace Virginia Jones (Gamma, Northwestern
University)
Jenna Sue Jackson (Zeta Sigma, Missouri State
Makely Phillips (Beta Rho, American University)
University)
Emma Marie Salem (Gamma, Northwestern
University)
MERLYNN HARRIS PITCHER BETA
NU/BETA XI FUND
ROBINETTE FAMILY LEGACY
Asha L. Brown (Beta Nu, University of Utah)
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Emma Nicole Dawson (Beta Xi, Utah State University)
Elle Logan Baker (Rho, University of Washington)
Elizabeth Claire Farmer (Beta Nu, University of Utah)
ROCKY TOP SCHOLARSHIP FUND
MIRIAM DECKER SCHOLARSHIP
Honour Alexandra Grand (Delta Pi, University of
FUND
Tennessee, Knoxville)
Elizabeth Burks (Gamma Epsilon, Oklahoma State
Ansleigh Paige Lewis (Delta Pi, University of
University)
Tennessee, Knoxville)
Courtney Jayne Lekai (Alpha Upsilon, The University
Ginevieve Marie Tetley (Delta Pi, University of
of Alabama)
Tennessee, Knoxville)
Brianna Lynn Ma (Epsilon Psi, University of California,
Sara Grace Travis (Delta Pi, University of Tennessee,
Irvine)
Knoxville)
Riley Jordan Marelli (Zeta Psi, Loyola University New
Orleans)
Libby Marie Petrie (Delta Rho, University of Arkansas)
"I am SO
NU NU ALUMNAE CHAPTER FUND
Alia Hope Graham (Lambda Mu, Trinity College)
thankful
that I
OMICRON CHAPTER CENTENNIAL
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
have
Meredith Ann Brown (Omicron, Baker University)
found
Petra D. Frans (Omicron, Baker University)
Samantha Noelle Resch (Omicron, Baker University)
myself
PATRICIA O'BRIEN FRECHETTE
surrounded by
SCHOLARSHIP FOR KAPPA CHAPTER
women striving for
Riley Jayne Dreher (Delta Nu, lowa State University)
the same goals and
Chloe Loera (Pi, University of California, Berkeley)
Katie Rae Reynolds (Gamma Pi, University of Tampa)
ambitions as myself."
Victoria Romero (Eta, Bucknell University)
Maggie Mae Shaw (Zeta Chi, Muhlenberg College)
- LILLY WOOD (BETA SIGMA,
UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA)
THE LYRE
33
FOUNDATION
ROVIRA FAMILY TRUST LEADERSHIP
THETA UPSILON CHAPTER
AWARD
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Genevieve Camille Khoury (Epsilon Kappa, California
Katherine Helen Nutt (Theta Upsilon, University of
State University, Fullerton)
South Carolina)
Noelle Lucienne Sarafian (Theta Upsilon, University
RUTH PADDOCK MAUGER FUND
of South Carolina)
Abbie Grace Levi (Alpha Mu, Indiana University)
UPSILON CHAPTER EDUCATIONAL
Elia Makinson (Alpha Mu, Indiana University)
ASSISTANCE FUND
SALLY CALLAHAN SCHOLARSHIP
Emily Jane Barton (Upsilon, Millikin University)
FUND
Alexandria Danielle Sears (Upsilon, Millikin
University)
Lauren Olivia Ducharme (Alpha Pi, University of
North Dakota)
VIRGINIA KELLY KARNES
SHAWN MARGARET DONNELLEY
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Parker Sikora (Alpha Beta, Purdue University)
Kaitlyn Marie Manning (Zeta Psi, Loyola University
WESCHE STRASSER SCHOLARSHIP
New Orleans)
Riley Jordan Marelli (Zeta Psi, Loyola University New
FUND
Orleans)
Emma Smith (Alpha Eta, University of Mount Union)
SIGMA CHAPTER EDUCATIONAL
WRUBEL FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP
ASSISTANCE FUND
FUND
Maddison Bulman (Sigma, University of Iowa)
Mia Rose Pogach (Kappa Nu, Carnegie Mellon
University)
SUSAN ESCO CHANDLER FUND
Chloe Elizabeth Klonowski (Psi, The University of
ZETA NU CHAPTER 25TH
Oklahoma)
ANNIVERSARY FUND
Logan Reed Good (Zeta Nu, Texas A&M University)
SUSIE AND JOHN L. ADAMS
Tenna Moller Poulsen (Zeta Nu, Texas A&M
EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE FUND
University)
Lillian Katharine Bien (Alpha Phi, The University of
Texas at Austin)
ZETA PHI CHAPTER EDUCATIONAL
Katelyn McKenna Flynn (Gamma Zeta, Kansas State
ASSISTANCE FUND
University)
Margot Nicole Baker (Zeta Phi, Cornell University)
Megan Leilua Tung-Weston (Alpha Gamma, The
Misha Kaki Caternor (Zeta Phi, Cornell University)
University of New Mexico)
Jolene Faith Gagliano (Zeta Phi, Cornell University)
Fiona Spring Gao (Zeta Phi, Cornell University)
TEXAS SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Clarice Xin Jie Lim (Zeta Phi, Cornell University)
Emilia Maria McBride (lota Sigma, Southern
Kelly Pellegrino (Zeta Phi, Cornell University)
Methodist University)
Natalina Josetta Putrino (Zeta Phi, Cornell University)
Madison Roy (Gamma Rho, Texas Tech University)
Mercedes Petras Reyes (Zeta Phi, Cornell University)
THETA PSI CHAPTER FUND IN
MEMORY OF RACHEL SWETT
Veronica Alexis Banat (Theta Psi, Columbia
University)
Isabel Bialer Lapidus (Theta Psi, Columbia University)
34 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
Shop ALPHA CHI
COMFORT
COLORS
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SHOP THE
Alpha Chi Omega
LARGEST
SELECTION OF
ALPHA CHI
MERCHANDISE!
ha phi
AlphaChi
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CHI ON
AXI
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SCAN TO SEE MORE OR VISIT
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SHOPALPHACHI.COM
HOUSING
Spaces to Seek the Heights
HOW THE NHC IS EMPOWERING
MEMBERS TO ACHIEVE MORE
BY KENDALL SUESS (GAMMA EPSILON, OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY),
HOUSING OPERATIONS COORDINATOR
T
he National Housing Corporation (NHC) offers members a unique living and learning experience
throughout their collegiate career. From study rooms to outdoor patios and more, chapter facilities create
encouraging spaces for sisters to continue seeking the heights. Let's take a look at some of the ways the NHC
promotes growth and sisterhood through chapter facilities.
SUPPORTIVE ACADEMIC ENVIRONMENTS
Having a space to be able to focus on school, work,
job interviews, etc. is important. Academic spaces
in chapter facilities range from group study rooms
to executive conference rooms to quiet zones. These
areas can be used for members to focus on upcoming
tests, work together on a group project or spend some
time studying with sisters. Chapters often host events
like study nights, sister tutoring and executive board
meetings in the chapter facilities, SO having access to
spaces dedicated to learning can encourage academic
success and support among members, making these
rooms an important part of their collegiate journey.
LIVING ROOM AT ALPHA (DEPAUW UNIVERSITY)
SAFETY AND SECURITY MEASURES
Safety is one of the most important aspects to ensure
the well-being of the chapter members who are living
in the facility. The NHC has put in place safety and
security precautions to help the women feel safe and
at home. Some of these measures include fire sprinkler
systems, exterior security cameras and access control
STUDY ROOM AT GAMMA THETA (UNIVERSITY OF
systems. The feeling of safety aids in fostering a healthy
MARYLAND)
and supportive living environment.
36 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
OUTDOOR SPACES AND SUNPORCHES
Outdoor spaces and sunporches in a chapter facility play
an important role in promoting sisterhood, as these
areas give chapter members a place to enjoy the outside
and relax. These areas are often thoughtfully designed
patios and courtyards, as well as sunrooms filled with
plants and flowers or large windows to give sisters an
opportunity to unwind and connect with one another.
These spaces can also serve as social areas for sisters to
bond and create special memories.
LIVING ROOM AT ALPHA KAPPA (UNIVERSITY OF OREGON)
COLLABORATIVE SPACES
Collaborative spaces within a chapter facility are where
sisters can come together and create shared experiences.
These rooms encourage working together, creativity,
support and a sense of community. They also allow
members to join together for meals, host a movie night
in the TV lounge or living room, and work on chapter
OUTDOOR PATIO AT BETA LAMBDA (UNIVERSITY OF
crafts or banners.
ARIZONA)
COVERED PORCH AT ZETA PI (ARIZONA STATE
FORMAL LIVING ROOM AT IOTA LAMBDA (TEXAS
UNIVERSITY)
CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY)
HOUSING
Sisterhood Retreat
ACCESSIBILITY FEATURES
AXO
Accessibility features in a chapter facility are important
2023
to ensure inclusivity and accommodation. By
implementing wheelchair ramps, elevators and ADA-
ZETA SIGMA
compliant features in bedrooms and bathrooms, the
(MISSOURI STATE
NHC prioritizes accessibility for chapter members
UNIVERSITY)
and guests. These features allow every member to
MEMBERS
AT THEIR
participate fully in all aspects of sisterhood, including
SISTERHOOD
living in the facility.
RETREAT
ADA-COMPLIANT
lipha Cht
Alpha
Alpha chi
CHI
GUEST BATHROOM
Alpha chi
AT IOTA SIGMA
(SOUTHERN
BID DAY
METHODIST
AT THE
UNIVERSITY)
LAMBDA PI
(UNIVERSITY
OF
MISSISSIPPI)
FACILITY
HOSTING SISTERHOOD EVENTS
From Bid Days to game nights, chapter facilities serve
as a great place to host all kinds of sisterhood events.
Some of our chapters have used their facilities to host
ELEVATOR AT
self-defense classes, philanthropy events, all-chapter
GAMMA SIGMA
sleepovers, canvas painting nights and many other fun
(UNIVERSITY OF
opportunities. Having a place for the members to call
RHODE ISLAND)
home and enjoy these memories with one another
can bring a sense of belonging and remind them of
MODERN AND FUNCTIONAL SPACES
the shared values that bind them together.
Modern and functional spaces are designed to improve the quality of life and evolving needs of the chapter
members. Modern amenities such as updated kitchens, common areas and bedrooms ensure the members
can carry out their daily routines, whether it's studying or spending time with each other. These updates
to
the facilities foster a sense of pride and create a welcoming place to call home.
These are some of the many ways sisters can continue to seek the heights while having the special
opportunity to call their chapter facility "home." The NHC continues to improve the living and learning
experience through renovations, updates and improvements to its facilities!
38 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
Facility Focus
ZETA SIGMA (MISSOURI
the National Housing Corporation. The NHC knew
STATE UNIVERSITY)
at the time of transition that improvements would be
needed and immediately began planning for an update
to the facility's structure. While those structural and
T
he Zeta Sigma chapter facility, one of
mechanical improvements were being made, the NHC
the Alpha Chi Omega National Housing
worked closely with the chapter project team - made
Corporation's (NHC) newest properties, had
up of the chapter president, vice president facility
many structural and mechanical improvements during
operations, chapter advisor and facility operations
the 2022-23 academic year, including updates to the
advisor - to decide on some other exciting additions
entryway, conference room, living room, dining room,
such as new décor, paint and light fixtures.
resident bathroom and bedrooms.
Here are some before and after pictures of the work
In 2020, Zeta Sigma's chapter facility was officially
done by the National Housing Corporation! Not
transferred from the local house corporation (LHC) to
pictured: the new and upgraded HVAC system and
sprinkler system!
FIRST FLOOR LIVING ROOM
CONFERENCE ROOM
Wood flooring was installed to replace the carpet, along
New flooring, furniture and décor create a professional
with new paint and updated décor. The existing furniture
feel for this room to hold executive board meetings,
was arranged in a way to better utilize the space.
study sessions and more.
BEFORE
BEFORE
AFTER
AFTER
THE LYRE
39
COLLEGATE CORNER
Gaining the
Confidence
to Seek the
Heights
BY HANNAHJANE ARELLANO (IOTA NU,
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SAN DIEGO)
N
avigating my early 20s as a first-generation
college student was an arduous journey,
especially during my undergraduate years. As a
transfer student from a community college, I embarked
on a significant shift from a culinary arts path to a legal
HANNAHJANE ARELLANO
path without the guidance or support of someone who
had trodden a similar path.
This transition was fraught with challenges that led
Upon attending my first chapter meeting, I was inspired
to intense bouts of imposter syndrome and negative
by the numerous confident and outspoken members
self-talk, which were exacerbated by the fact that my
around me. Their presence encouraged me to run for
immigrant parents struggled to grasp the complexities
the position of vice president chapter relations and
of the college experience. I was acutely aware that
standards, even though self-doubt lingered due to my
forging connections and finding my place in the
status as a new member. Negative self-talk resurfaced,
academic and social landscape were paramount as I
fueled by concerns about my qualifications and the
embarked on my undergraduate journey.
perception of my peers.
Understanding that my time at the University of
However, I knew that to lead effectively, I needed to
California San Diego was limited, I recognized the need
embody the qualities of a leader, exuding confidence
to be part of something more significant than myself.
and strength. My journey to self-assured leadership
Thus, I decided to navigate the recruitment process
paralleled my initiation into the sorority, as I grappled
for a sorority. Although I initially hesitated, fearing I
with what it meant to be a newly initiated member
might not fit in, this decision ultimately introduced
and a leader simultaneously. Fortunately, my sorority
me to lifelong connections that would shape my
sisters offered unwavering support, reminding me of
college experience. The recruitment process revealed a
the importance of compassion and grace, both toward
welcoming community of individuals who immediately
oneself and others.
made me feel at home. During Preference Night, I had
an epiphany: choosing Alpha Chi Omega would be a
Alpha Chi played a pivotal role in bolstering my
transformative decision.
newfound confidence. Serving as an executive member
40 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
not only allowed me to be kinder to myself but also
provided the space for increased empathy toward myself
and those around me. This role positioned me to evolve
alongside other individuals in our chapter. The bonds
"Sometimes seeking the
forged within Alpha Chi Omega served as a testament
to my resilience, reminding me of the strength I
had drawn upon in past endeavors, from pursuing a
heights is merely pushing
culinary career, to battling cancer and navigating the
college application process during a pandemic. These
the boundaries of our
experiences underscored the belief that anything was
possible, from leading a chapter to graduating college
capabilities, even if only
and applying for law school.
by a fraction."
In a world fraught with chaos, our hearts can weigh
heavy, sapping our strength and resolve. There are days
when our pursuit of greatness may seem as modest as
the simple act of getting out of bed and brushing our
teeth in the face of overwhelming challenges. Yet, we
must recognize that greatness is not always defined by
Ultimately, the most profound gift we can offer
monumental feats; sometimes seeking the heights is
ourselves is confidence in our actions and the
merely pushing the boundaries of our capabilities, even
forgiveness to accept that there will be days when
if only by a fraction. On those days when our capacity is
seeking more feels like an insurmountable task. Each
limited, it's crucial to grant ourselves grace and embrace
day presents an opportunity to scale new heights, each
the process of healing and self-care.
one building upon the last.
Alpha
is
calling
HANNAHJANE
ALPHA
CHI
OMEGA
HANNAHJANE (CENTER) ON HER BID DAY WITH NEW SISTERS
THE LYRE
41
ON CAMPUS
Affiliation Opens Chapter
Doors for Transfer Students
BY LISA YOUNG STIERS (EPSILON OMICRON,
INDIANA STATE UNIVERSITY)
S
ometimes, plans change. Life happens. Priorities
adjust. Dreams evolve. A student's original
university no longer fits.
More than 1 million students transferred to another
college or university in 2021, according to the National
Center for Educational Statistics. For Alpha Chi Omega
collegians, that also means leaving their chapters of
initiation behind.
But, if members' new colleges or universities also have
OLIVIA COSGROVE
an Alpha Chi Omega chapter, they have a choice -
affiliate. Affiliation has offered members the chance to
wanted to become," Olivia says. "I was immersed in
continue their collegiate chapter experiences since the
the new environment and quickly fell in love with the
early years of the Fraternity.
scenery, friends and culture in San Luis Obispo."
Simply put, affiliation is when a member joins an
Alpha Chi Omega added a sense of belonging. "My
Alpha Chi Omega chapter into which she was not
initial attraction to Alpha Chi Omega was hearing
initiated. According to Alpha Chi Omega policy,
how openly every member talked about their personal
an active collegiate member in good standing who
development and the friendships they had gained from
transfers to a college or university where there is a
joining as a freshman," she remembers. "I wanted the
collegiate chapter may affiliate - though this is not
same for myself."
required and the collegian may instead become an
alumna member. More information about the full
As a first-generation sorority member, getting involved
procedure is available at my.alphachiomega.org.
in the Epsilon Omega chapter was initially nerve-
wracking. But Olivia quickly became the assistant VP risk
What does affiliation look like in practice? These
management and threw herself into overseeing the well-
Alpha Chi Omega sisters share their experiences.
being of her chapter. Alpha Chi Omega became home.
MOVING CLOSER TO FAMILY
Sadly, actually being away from home brought heartache.
"I felt that I was missing family events that could not
A childhood dream to explore the west coast and spread
be replaced by pictures sent on text messages," Olivia
her wings brought Olivia Cosgrove to Cal Poly, San Luis
explains. "I kept going back and forth if transferring
Obispo.
would be the best decision for me. How could I leave the
life I had made for myself and the friendships? It was not
"I've always ached to explore new states and felt that
an easy decision."
doing SO would help develop me into the person I
42 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
FINDING THE RIGHT FIT
Sometimes a school is simply not a good match, as Grace
Gilmore found.
"I transferred to find a school that was a better academic
and environmental fit for me," Grace says. "I had to find
out what I didn't like to find out what I do like."
What Grace did take with her from her initial college
experience at Arizona State University was her passion
for Alpha Chi Omega and treasured experiences with the
GRACE GILMORE
Zeta Pi chapter.
Ultimately, Olivia decided that transferring to the
"I chose to affiliate [when I transferred] because I had
University of South Carolina felt right, but SO did the
such a positive experience being involved in Greek life at
connections she had made with Alpha Chi Omega.
my old school, SO I wanted to continue," Grace explains.
Fortunately, the Theta Upsilon chapter awaited.
"It was a great opportunity to meet new people and
introduced me to some of my best friends."
"Alpha Chi Omega had become an integral part of my
college experience, and I wasn't ready to let that go,"
So strong was her connection with Alpha Chi Omega
she says. "From stepping into the {Theta Upsilon] house
that she moved directly into the Chi chapter house when
on work week, I immediately felt the love each girl had
she transferred to Oregon State University.
for one another. I'd never seen such strong sorority
connections. I knew that I would find a place here just as
"It was a little bit scary since I did not know anyone at
I had done at Cal Poly."
all and had only chatted with some of the girls virtually,"
she says. "I decided just going into it with an open mind
Olivia jumped in quickly. "From getting check-in texts
and positive attitude while being the most authentic
from our president to members asking the 'new girl'
version of myself was the best way to tackle my nerves
to hang out, I feel that I belong in this chapter," she
and the process as a whole."
says. "Getting dinner at the house, going on sister dates
with our new members and attending sisterhood events
Grace took every opportunity to get involved at Chi
together has made this transfer process seamless for me. I
chapter, including being elected VP finance just two
was worried that my new chapter wouldn't be the same,
months after affiliating. "This experience really has
but it has exceeded my expectations."
taught me that the sisterhood of Alpha Chi is more
than just within one chapter," Grace says.
As she finishes her first semester with Theta Upsilon,
Olivia has plans to become even more involved -
FOLLOWING HER DREAM
including running for office. In addition to making new
relationships, Olivia is determined to maintain close ties
Victoria Mata began her academic career at The
to her chapter of initiation, particularly with her big
University of Texas at Austin and was initiated by the
sister Chloe.
Alpha Phi chapter during her sophomore year.
"I'm truly grateful that I have the opportunity to
"I remember meeting Alpha Chis during recruitment,
experience two chapters that have an infinite amount of
thinking that they were such wonderful role models and
love for this organization," Olivia says.
hoping to be just like them one day," Victoria says. "I was
THE LYRE
43
ON CAMPUS
Both chapters felt like home. "I found that Gamma
Upsilon, just like Alpha Phi, was filled with women who
were leaders, academics, artists, fun lovers and some of
the funniest people I've met. The values of Alpha Chi
Omega, as an organization, transcend any university
and are present no matter which chapter you join," says
Victoria, who graduated this spring and is now studying
law. "Although I did find myself making adjustments in
order to better understand the differences in being part
of Greek life at a much smaller school, I never once was
made to change myself in order to fit in at a different
VICTORIA MATA
chapter."
drawn in by the chapter's focus on empowering women,
the dedication to our philanthropy and the fun-loving
IS AFFILIATION RIGHT FOR YOU?
spirit of the girls I talked to."
Members offer this advice to their sisters
However, later that year, Victoria was offered the chance
transferring schools and considering affiliation:
of a lifetime - becoming a Houston Texans cheerleader.
"It was a life goal of mine to dance professionally, SO
Just try it - "If Alpha Chi has had a positive
when I was presented with the opportunity, I transferred
impact on your life, don't be afraid to continue
schools to make it happen," Victoria explains.
that journey at another school. It can make
a big change feel less scary," Olivia says. "This
Victoria's strong connection with Alpha Chi Omega
decision has given me more friendly faces on a
and her Alpha Phi sisters eventually led to the Gamma
large campus and a chance to get involved at my
Upsilon chapter at the University of Houston.
new school. It may be a bit intimidating at first,
but the love and support as a transfer student
"I didn't immediately affiliate with Gamma Upsilon.
from my sisters made the choice to affiliate
I had a very busy schedule that fall and was unsure if I
worth it!"
would be welcome and feel at home in a new chapter,"
Victoria says. "But after the first few weeks of classes, it
Trust your gut - "If anyone is thinking about
quickly became apparent to me that something in my
affiliating, my biggest piece of advice would be
life was missing, and that something was sisterhood."
to trust your gut and yourself!" Grace says. "You
will never know unless you try."
Still, she was nervous. Would connecting with a new
chapter as a junior be possible? Victoria pushed herself to
Rely on your bond of sisterhood -
participate in as many chapter events as possible.
"Remember that Alpha Chi Omegas are your
sisters no matter where you are from, and they
"I'm SO grateful for how welcoming and kind they were
will be happy to open their arms and accept you
to me, especially during my first few weeks," Victoria
into their chapter," Victoria says. "Remember
says. "Although I never held an elected position, I was
there is nothing stronger than this bond.
always one to jump at the opportunity to volunteer or
Our sisters are all held to the same standard
do tabling or attend social events. Making memories with
nationally, and our chapters' values transcend
my Alpha Chi sisters definitely paid off, and I clicked
any barriers. I can promise that you'll feel at
with the girls faster than I could've ever imagined."
home anywhere that there's an Alpha Chi."
44 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
Women & Wisdom
ALPHA CHI OMEGA'S NETWORK OF REAL, STRONG WOMEN
YOUR ONE-STOP PLATFORM FOR PERSONAL GROWTH,
CONNECT WHILE
PROFESSIONAL ADVANCEMENT, MENTORSHIP AND COMMUNITY
YOU'RE ON THE
GO!
Are you
Scan the QR code or visit
an ALUMNA looking to network with sisters within and outside of your field?
womenandwisdom.org on
a COLLEGIAN wanting support from an alumna to review your resume?
your phone or tablet to access
a MEMBER exploring open job, internship or volunteer opportunities?
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anENTREPRENEUR hoping to promote your sister-owned business?
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With Women & Wisdom, you can find mentoring, events, groups, job opportunities,
member and business directories, and connections with sisters sharing your interests and experiences.
If you are looking to empower and support sisters in reaching their fullest potential, while investing in your personal
and professional growth, Women & Wisdom is for you!
START CONNECTING AT WOMENANDWISDOM.ORG!
JUST IN CASE
you missed it
Two sisters facilitated fall workshops. Megan Pendley Pickett (Gamma Mu,
Ball State University) presented her advice and resources about preparing
for the job search. Amanda Wallingsford (Zeta Omicron, Vanderbilt
University) led a session on recharging from burnout. Supplemental
resources were distributed to all members that attended and are available
on the Women & Wisdom network. Both sessions inspired sisters to invest in
themselves!
Find past SERIES recordings and more at
Women & Wisdom
WOMENANDWISDOM.ORG/RESOURCES
SERIES
PLATFORM HIGHLIGHT
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
Did you know we have a business directory on our network? By adding your details to our Women & Wisdom business directory,
you're not just listing your company; you're contributing to our shared success story. Don't miss this opportunity to shine a light
on your business and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs. We even have a special networking group just for business
owners like you. Join us in making our Women & Wisdom business directory a powerful resource for us all!
CAREER OUTLOOK
Volunteering: The Secret
Resume Booster
BY LISA YOUNG STIERS (EPSILON OMICRON,
INDIANA STATE UNIVERSITY)
I
n January 2019, Lizett Ross (Beta Nu, University
of Utah) left her job for what she expected
would be a one-year break.
"COVID changed all of that, and my hiatus ended up
being four years," Lizett says. "Through that time, I
had been volunteering with Alpha Chi Omega."
LIZETT ROSS
MEGAN PENDLEY PICKETT
When she resumed her job search in February 2023,
she incorporated her volunteer experiences as province
collegiate chair (PCC) into her resume and cover letters.
ALPHA CHI OMEGA'S
She focused her search on human resource positions
VOLUNTEER CORE
and tailored her examples to highlight the mentorship
COMPETENCIES
skills she developed as PCC, a role in which she offered
guidance and support to the collegiate chapter officers
In support of Alpha Chi Omega's strategic priority
and advisors in her region.
related to volunteer management, we have developed
competencies for our volunteers to enhance their
Lizett had broad Alpha Chi Omega volunteer
experience and help them grow personally and
experiences to pull from - first as chapter advisor for
professionally. These skills can be applied to their
Beta Nu and then with Delta Epsilon Delta alumnae
roles and beyond - and can be great things to
chapter after moving to Colorado Springs. When she
mention while seeking a job!
returned to Utah, she became the Ritual and fraternity
appreciation advisor for Beta Nu, as well as a Ritual
Our eight core competencies are:
specialist, before becoming PCC. More recently, she
served as a Foundation Ambassador and joined the
Accountability
board of the Alpha Zeta Alpha (Salt Lake City, Utah)
Action-Oriented
alumnae chapter. This spring, she became the volunteer
Builds Relationships
director of province collegiate chairs.
Celebrates Others
Communicates Well
"During job interviews, I spoke about what I did and
Integrity
the chapters I assisted. Most of my interviewers were
Motivates Others
impressed with what my volunteer role required and
Resiliency
saw it as credible experience," she explains.
Members can explore the "Volunteer
The strategy worked. Just a few months later, Lizett
Resources" category of the Resource Center on
accepted a job in human resources at a local school district.
my.alphachiomega.org to learn more.
46 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
Lizett is not unique in her journey, according to Megan
to my experience section and listed skills that related to
Pendley Pickett (Gamma Mu, Ball State University), a
the job, I began to get interviews."
strengths-based coach who works with adults in career
and other transition.
As you prepare for a job interview, Megan suggests
curating your most impactful volunteer experiences
"I do believe that many employers find volunteer
into stories that highlight your skills and assets.
experience valuable, both from a holistic candidate lens,
as well as a way to connect with potential candidates
"I love when candidates can tell a story with their
on a personal level. It does show a well-roundedness,"
interview responses. This is a great way to demonstrate
Megan says. "That being said, some employers may
real-life examples, both personal and professional,
not find it 'valuable,' but it would rarely, if ever, have a
during the interview process," she says. "Again, if it is
negative impact on someone's candidacy."
relevant, incorporate your membership or volunteer
experience as an example of how you accomplished
Lizett encourages other job seekers - whether new
something or demonstrated a characteristic or work
to the workforce or returning after a break - to be
trait. Not all answers have to be directly related to your
confident in the skills they honed as a volunteer.
professional experience. Just be sure it is relevant and
highlights something you are proud of."
"When an interviewer brought up the gap in my
resume, I would tell them I spent the time volunteering
Megan built her first professional career on experiences she
for a nonprofit and talked about the skills I used and
had as a Panhellenic recruitment leader her senior year.
what I learned from it," she says. "I didn't give them
"This was by far the most impactful experience I had as
an opportunity to push my experience aside just
an undergraduate and led to a career as a campus-based
because it was through volunteering. Especially in a
fraternity/sorority advisor for 15 years," she says.
field like human resources, recruiting, onboarding and
mentoring others relates to the field."
Today, Megan manages her own firm, Pendley Pickett
Coaching & Consulting, while also continuing to
Both Megan and Lizett say the key is to highlight
volunteer with Alpha Chi Omega. She has served as
volunteer experiences and skills gained that are relevant
an InTune facilitator since 2004, as well as served as a
to the job you seek. Including information in the cover
Leadership Academy facilitator and on local advisory
letter can be a great way to spotlight volunteerism.
boards for more than 10 years.
"I really like bullet points for highlighting relevant
As sisters embark on their own job hunt, both Lizett
experiences in cover letters," Megan says. "If one of
and Megan encourage them to value the volunteer
your memberships and/or volunteer experiences are
work they've done with Alpha Chi Omega and in
applicable, use that as one of your relevant bullet points."
their communities. These accomplishments and
contributions are no less valuable simply because they
Megan encourages job seekers to check out resume
are unpaid.
templates and examples online to see what might work
best in their individual situation. One good option is to
As Lizett can attest, "Feeling confident in my volunteer
include your volunteer or civic experiences in a short
roles and the skills they required was a big help."
subsection near the end of your resume.
Alternatively, you could follow Lizett's example and add
LOOKING TO GAIN REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE
relevant volunteer details to the experience section on
THROUGH VOLUNTEERING WITH ALPHA CHI OMEGA?
your resume. She explains, "I started off listing it in a
COMPLETE YOUR VOLUNTEER INTEREST FORM ON
different section and didn't hear much. Once I moved it
MY.ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG
THE LYRE
47
REAL. STRONG. WOMAN.
*
ORATIO SIMUL
X
Seeking
the
Heights
Out of
This
ANNA, BOTTOM RIGHT, WITH THE
POLARIS DAWN CREW DURING A
ZERO-GRAVITY RESEARCH FLIGHT
POLARIS PROGRAM / JOHN KRAUS
World
BY KARLEE BROWN MOORE
(RHO, UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON)
hat inspires someone to want to rocket into
W
space exploring realms never achieved by anyone
before? For one Alpha Chi Omega sister, an
elementary school field trip inspired a dream that
set a course for her life and is launching her out of this world!
Raised in Houston, Texas, Anna Wilhem Menon (lota Lambda, Texas
Christian University) had exposure to NASA starting at a young age.
In fourth grade, Anna's teacher, Alison Smith Balch, daughter of Space
Shuttle Challenger pilot Michael J. Smith, took the students on a field
trip to NASA that provided an insider's look into what it was like to
work as both an astronaut and in mission control. This experience
opened Anna to space in general and "lit a fire in me to contribute to
this industry with my career," she says.
Fast forward to 2023, after working in the space field for more than a
decade, Anna is preparing for her first mission into space as part of the
Polaris Dawn crew.
THE LYRE
49
REAL. STRONG. WOMAN.
POLARIS
DAWN
POLARIS PROGRAM / JOHN KRAUS
You
POTEET
GILLIS
of
CONNECTIONS
applying her engineering background. "One of my great
AND ASPIRATIONS
drivers is to do meaningful work in this world. It doesn't
have to have a certain title and it can look a lot of different
Texas Christian University (TCU) is where Anna was
ways it continues to drive my every action," Anna
introduced to Alpha Chi Omega. In 2005, Alpha Chi
says. Her commitment to service and meaningful work
Omega in turn initiated her into its sisterhood and
makes the Polaris Dawn mission's partnership with St.
lifelong friendships. For someone who describes herself as
Jude Children's Research Hospital® a special element; the
"connection-oriented," Alpha Chi Omega fed Anna's desire
mission is raising awareness and funds for the hospital to
for deeper connection with others, the community and
help it meet its goal to improve the global survival rates
the universe. "It was a life changing place for me, and it
for childhood cancer.
made some wonderful impacts on my life," Anna says.
After graduating from TCU with bachelor's degrees in
It was in the supportive environment of this sisterhood
mathematics and Spanish, Anna continued her education
where Anna experienced growth as a leader. It was also
at Duke University, where she received a master's degree
where she learned how to work with people from a variety
in biomedical engineering. A purpose-driven individual,
of backgrounds and form a team that together created a
Anna says her love of space remained strong throughout
stronger foundation, accomplished more and moved the
her schooling, and she sought out internships that fulfilled
organization further forward than could have been done
her yearning to work in the field combined with her
individually. "I have absolutely applied the teamwork
strengths in math and engineering.
lessons I learned at Alpha Chi Omega as I've gone on to
work at NASA, SpaceX and now on this mission called
"One of the beautiful things about space is that it is a
Polaris Dawn," Anna says. These principles remain with her
diverse field and takes SO many different roles," Anna says.
in everything she does, from work to community to home.
"There are lots of ways to contribute." An internship with
NASA boosted Anna into her first job after obtaining her
Participation in philanthropic work is another treasured
master's degree, and she remained with NASA for seven
Alpha Chi memory. "I cherish the philanthropy work we
years as a biomedical flight controller in the International
did [in Alpha Chi Omega] and the lessons it taught me
Space Station.
and the impact we could make through it," Anna says.
Giving back has remained important for her throughout
When she moved on to work for SpaceX, she once again
her career as she has volunteered around the world
landed in mission control and works as a senior space
operations engineer. "I am supporting
SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft mission control
as a mission director and also developing
crew operations and procedures that our
astronauts perform in orbit," Anna explains.
And now in addition to her regular day job,
she is also preparing for her own journey
into space.
THE POLARIS
DAWN MISSION
SpaceX is gearing up for an exciting mission
called Polaris Dawn, set to launch from
the Kennedy Space Center in Florida no
sooner than 2024. This mission, which
ANNA (TOP LEFT) AND THE CREW DURING SPACEWALK TRAINING
PHOTO CREDIT: SPACEX
THE LYRE
51
REAL. STRONG. WOMAN.
WHAT WILL ANNA AND
THE POLARIS DAWN CREW
will serve as both a mission specialist and medical officer,
DO ON THE MISSION?
drawing upon her background as an engineer at SpaceX
and her biomedical studies. She also received first-hand ER
Conduct 40 scientific studies to shed
training to fully equip her for this role - although she says
light on human health in space and
she is hoping not to have to apply this training during the
on Earth
mission!
Complete the first commercial
This crew brings a lot of knowledge and experience to the
spacewalk using SpaceX-designed
table, having been part of previous missions in a variety
extravehicular activity (EVA)
of ways. In fact, Anna knew all of the crew members even
spacesuits, a step toward developing
before she was selected for Polaris Dawn. She and Sarah
spacesuits for extended space missions
worked together at SpaceX from the start, and she met
and living and working in space
Jared and Scott during their Inspiration4 mission.
Test Starlink's laser-based
The crew selection process for the mission was demanding.
communication technology, which
Anna and her crewmates had to endure many physical
will be essential for future missions to
and psychological tests to make sure they could handle
the moon, Mars and beyond
the challenges of space travel. Their training included
advanced spaceflight techniques, emergency procedures
and high-altitude operations. They learned everything
will last up to five days, is the inaugural chapter of the
about the spacecraft, practiced specific skills needed for the
Polaris Program, which encompasses three spaceflights.
mission, and trained for experiments and the spacewalk.
Its overarching aim is to push the boundaries of our
knowledge about space and tackle the challenges of living
and working in it. Notably, this first mission aims to reach
a higher Earth orbit than any previous Dragon mission.
"It is a full team effort to meet all of the mission's
objectives," Anna says.
Anna won't be alone on the spacecraft; she'll have a team
of skilled crewmembers with her. Each member of the
crew has a diverse, unique background, and all members
were selected for their expertise in various scientific and
technical fields to fulfill specific roles. The leader of the
mission is Jared Isaacman, who's not only a pilot but
also an experienced astronaut. There's also Scott Poteet,
a former U.S. Air Force colonel and previous director
of the Inspiration4 mission, the first with all civilian
crewmembers. The crew rounds out with Sarah Gillis,
a senior space operations engineer who previously ran
SpaceX's astronaut training program.
While the Polaris Dawn crew of four has been training
ANNA PERFORMING A DECOMPRESSION SICKNESS RISK
for this mission for more than a year, Anna has been
CHARACTERIZATION STUDY
preparing for this journey throughout her career. She
PHOTO CREDIT: POLARIS PROGRAM /JOHN KRAUS
52 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
And it wasn't just about physical training; mental
spent many years trying to put herself in the shoes of the
preparation was just as important. "We went through
astronauts she has supported, and now she'll fill those
training to help prepare our minds for this mission being
shoes herself. want to be quite attentive to it all - how I
in a spacecraft [and] living with three other crew members
feel and learn - and apply it to future operations."
in this environment. We wanted to learn skills that helped
us get comfortable with being uncomfortable," Anna says.
Other personal goals include "supporting my teammates
One way they did this was by learning to skydive together.
in whatever ways are needed, executing our mission
They had to memorize every step taught in the U.S. Air
objectives, safety, putting our training into practice and
Force Academy skydiving program SO they could use them
learning as much as possible for our collective spaceflight
quickly under pressure. The training culminated in five
endeavors," Anna says. One of the aspects of the mission
solo skydives to reinforce what they learned.
that excites her is to see Earth from the vantage point of
space and gain an expanded perspective on the world and
The crew has also gone through a series of trainings
universe.
centered on soft skills to enhance their focus and
execution. While Anna knew all members of the crew
With the limited time the crew will have in space
prior to joining the team, they have been strengthening
to achieve the mission objectives, Anna knows the
their teamwork, focus and execution through joint
importance of being attentive and making every minute
simulation scenarios. The importance of teamwork is
count while she is up there. For example, performing the
not new to Anna; it is one of the many skills she learned
spacewalk requires a full team effort to cover the technical
throughout her collegiate experience thanks in large
work to ensure all participants remain safe and achieve the
part to her membership and participation in Alpha Chi
desired results. Conducting the many planned experiments
Omega. "Alpha Chi is such an outstanding example of
necessitates engagement from the entire team as well. The
teamwork," she says. "It has people who join from all
crew members have been instrumental in determining the
walks of life and work together to move the organization
research project list. They worked with SpaceX engineers
forward."
to develop the plans for conducting research, deciding how
they will work cross-functionally to complete the tasks
ON THE HOME FRONT
within the confined space and time, and training on the
protocols in preparation for the mission.
Anna is not the only member of her household preparing
to venture into outer space. Her husband, Anil, is currently
PUSHING THE BOUNDARIES
an astronaut candidate. "Space runs in the family's blood,"
Anna says. Anna and Anil have two children, James
While orbiting in space may not be every sister's dream,
and Grace, and family life keeps them both grounded.
Anna's story brings to life the way Alpha Chi Omega
Together, she and her husband work hard to increase
continues launching women to new and exciting places.
their children's awareness of the world around them by
Anna's journey reflects how she has used the Real. Strong.
exposing them to new sights and experiences. That is why
Women. Experience throughout her professional career.
"memorizing the moments" is one of the many things that
excites Anna about being part of the mission crew.
The Polaris Dawn mission pushes the boundaries of space
exploration, just as Alpha Chi Omega equips members to
Anna is motivated by being able to gain further
develop their gifts and talents and explore new horizons.
perspective and gather lessons that she can share with
It is through this network of sisterhood support coupled
her family and colleagues, and that can help contribute
with opportunities to venture out of our comfort zone
to future endeavors in human spaceflight. "We cannot
and become comfortable with being uncomfortable that
control everything in life, but one of the things we can
Alpha Chi Omega continues encouraging members to
control is our attention to our skills and leaning into
truly seek the heights - heights that may even launch
those interests in a way that helps serve," Anna says. She
them out of this world.
THE LYRE 53
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Seeking the Heights of the
Alumnae Experience
irtual and in-person alumnae chapters across
Sigma chapter facility was damaged by a tornado and
V
the country expand the Real. Strong. Women.
alumnae sisters came together to support the collegiate
Experience to sisters in their communities and
women and assist with cleanup efforts.
chapters of initiation. Through genuine connections
that span generations, philanthropy and service
In the spring of 2022, we expanded our reach to sisters
opportunities, leadership development and SO much
and transformed into a blended chapter that now also
more, the alumnae chapter experience is changing the
serves Sigma alumnae anywhere in the country through
lives of Alpha Chi Omega members for the better.
virtual engagement. The leadership team focused on
developing a board structure, recruiting new members
The alumnae chapters featured here make a difference
and designing a programming year that emphasized
through their intentional efforts to honor our
member education and social connection, both in
Ritual, support the collegiate experience, serve their
person and virtually. Epsilon Theta Epsilon continues
communities and deepen the bonds of sisterhood. Read
to impact Sigma chapter through participation in
on to hear from alumnae chapter leaders about how
mock recruitment, collaborative education on local
they seek the heights!
domestic violence awareness initiatives and supporting
graduating seniors in their transitions to alumnae life.
IMPACT THROUGH COLLEGIATE SUPPORT
Many hands make light work, and our chapter
As told by Epsilon Theta Epsilon president Carol
welcomes and values all levels of member participation.
Hepplewhite (Sigma, University of Iowa)
From our newest alumnae just experiencing post-
college life to our 75+ year members and everyone
Epsilon Theta
in between, sisters are positively impacted by the
Epsilon began as an
connections we build and the efforts we undertake as a
alumnae chapter
team to support Sigma chapter.
in Iowa City, Iowa.
Members met
IMPACT THROUGH CARE
regularly, hosted
philanthropic
As told by Sigma Sigma vice president Julie
events and had
Wisbrock (Phi, University of Kansas)
a longstanding
tradition of
Sigma Sigma alumnae chapter's Caring Committee
supporting Sigma
focuses on reaching out to sisters in the St. Louis,
collegiate chapter
Missouri area. Over the last few years, the chapter has
at the University of
come up with a number of ways to reach out to sisters
Iowa. Perhaps the
based on how they would like to be contacted and their
most meaningful
current situation. Whether on Zoom, a phone call or a
moment of this
classic handwritten note, we offer ways for sisters to feel
support came [in
cared for.
EPSILON THETA EPSILON
2006] when the
54 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
The Caring
our Ritual with sisters. From the Initiation Ceremony
Committee
through Hall of Commitment and beyond, we value
also keeps in
and appreciate each phase of the Alpha Chi Omega
contact with
experience.
our sisters in
retirement
On May 21, 2023, we held an alumna Initiation
communities.
Ceremony for our newest alumna sister, Kellyann
Many sisters
McBride (lota Alpha, Alumnae Initiates), followed
will call or
by a Black-Eyed Susan Day Luncheon, a tradition for
visit each
Marylanders, at the home of sister Laura Warfield
other, and
(Alpha Beta, Purdue University). We also host Hall
we have even
of Commitment for graduating Beta Pi seniors at
been able to
Washington College. This past April the ceremony
connect some
was followed by refreshments and chatting with the
sisters who live
collegians to hear about their future plans as we
SIGMA SIGMA
in the same
welcomed them to young alumnae life.
care facility!
For sisters coping with major health issues, we send a
Traditions are very important to Epsilon Xi Epsilon
card or carnations.
with events planned around all of the significant
Alpha Chi Omega celebrations! On Founders' Day 2023
Sigma Sigma also uses its members' birthday list to
we gathered for a domestic violence awareness walk in
recognize sisters in the monthly electronic newsletter,
Baltimore followed by a meal together. For Hera Day,
to send birthday cards, and to call them and wish them
we host a charity luncheon benefitting House of Ruth, a
a happy birthday. During the check-in call, we ask if
Baltimore organization fighting to end violence against
they need anything or if they have had any changes in
women and their children by addressing the systems
their address or email in order to update our member
that perpetuate it, along with providing victims with
directory. For sisters reaching 90 years and older, the
the services necessary to rebuild their lives safely and
Caring Committee visits them as a "Carnation Angel"
free of fear. During MacDowell Month, we toured the
and gifts them a red carnation.
Baltimore Museum of Art and enjoyed brunch and
fellowship.
Birthday cards, get-well wishes, thinking-of-you
Continued on next page
messages, notes of encouragement, phone calls to check
in and in-person visits all go a long way to building
relationships with sisters and helping them (and even
their family members) feel supported and thought
of. All of these efforts impact our current and future
members to feel connected to our sisterhood and to
Alpha Chi.
IMPACT THROUGH RITUAL
As told by Epsilon Xi Epsilon treasurer Jenna Sublett
(Beta Pi, Washington College)
Baltimore-based alumnae chapter Epsilon Xi Epsilon
takes great pride in conducting and participating in
EPSILON XI EPSILON
THE LYRE
55
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
These meaningful experiences help sisters feel more
connected to each other and to Alpha Chi Omega. We
HOW IS YOUR COLLEGIATE OR
always genuinely enjoy spending time together, but it
ALUMNAE CHAPTER SEEKING
makes it that much more special knowing that we are
THE HEIGHTS? SHARE YOUR
carrying on the traditions and Ritual of our Fraternity.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS WITH
IMPACT THROUGH COMMUNITY
US THROUGH CHAPTER
AWARD APPLICATIONS,
As told by Delta Omega Delta president Bronte
WHICH CAN BE FOUND AT
Joseph (Gamma Chi, Stetson University)
MY.ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG >
Delta Omega Delta alumnae chapter has a powerful
RESOURCE CENTER > GENERAL
connection to our Orange County, California community.
RESOURCES > AWARDS. THEY'RE
We have deep roots here and build our events in a
conscious way to support the community around us and
DUE JANUARY 12, 2024!
the sisters with us. There is no shortage of ways to have an
impact, nor of sisters to help!
east, Delta Omega Delta created a program called Hera's
With the ocean to the west of us and hills to the east,
Helpers, a task force to assist sisters whose homes and
we are surrounded by nature, of which we want to be
livelihoods were affected.
good stewards. For several years, we have participated in
Surfrider Foundation's annual clean-ups, removing trash
The collegians at Epsilon Kappa (California State
from the beaches we all enjoy. Last year, we opened up
University, Fullerton) have been more than willing to join
the event to our other alumnae chapters in Southern
our endeavors. During the annual Mission Viejo Purse
California to join forces and share in service and
Palooza, they not only held their own purse drive but
sisterhood. When the fires came through the hills to the
even joined us to volunteer at the event. The collegians
inspired us to create a scholarship through the Alpha Chi
Omega Foundation, and in just three years we were able
DELTA OMEGA DELTA
to collect the $25,000 needed to endow this
new scholarship.
Through our connections to each other and
SURFRIDER
our love for the community we share, we
have made a difference. Reaching out and
SURFRIDER
FOUNDATION
tugging on these connections has brought
our members closer together.
Want to make a difference in
an alumnae chapter? Find
AXO
one near you by exploring
our Chapter Search directory
in the My Alpha Chi member
portal. Scan the QR code now
to begin!
56 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
INDUSTRY INFO
Growing in Leadership
oining Alpha Chi Omega offers numerous
coming together to better
J
benefits, including growing leadership skills like
our Panhellenic-wide
Vanessa Hill (Delta Psi, University of California,
community above their
Santa Barbara) did. Not only did Vanessa serve as
own chapter inspired me
her collegiate chapter's president, but she also extended
daily. I'm still friends with
her leadership as Panhellenic president! Learn about
each of them even after
the leadership skills you can develop through Alpha Chi
graduation, and without
Omega through this Q&A with Vanessa!
being on the Panhellenic
board, I would have never
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO GET INVOLVED?
had these cross-chapter
friendships!
I remember during my fall semester as a freshman
in Alpha Chi Omega seeing all of the seniors doing
I feel like I have gained
VANESSA HILL
amazing things - whether it was in Alpha Chi in their
confidence, both from the Panhellenic and Alpha Chi
leadership roles, being club presidents, having these
community, in moments where I have spoken up and
really outstanding internships and jobs, or applying for
have been supported, or when people rally around what
master's degrees. I think that really set the tone for me
you have to say. I used to have to speak in front of IFC, or
of, "Wow, I'm SO inspired by these women, and they're
a large group of college males, and sometimes that took a
helping me accomplish my goals. Now, I want to be able
lot of courage and confidence. In my post-graduation role
to provide that for others as well."
at my job now, I've received praise for having confidence
and speaking up in meetings.
WHAT IS IT LIKE TO BE PANHELLENIC
PRESIDENT?
WHAT SKILLS DO YOU THINK ARE
IMPORTANT FOR LEADERS?
The Panhellenic board serves as this all-star team,
almost like the best leadership from every chapter. We
I think empathy is really important. Being a real,
really tried to utilize the strengths from each chapter to
strong woman means being an empathetic person
benefit the community and other chapters on campus.
and approaching the problems that may come to you
As president, I and the Panhellenic board would meet
as a leader with empathy. I think it goes a long way,
with chapter presidents, and I took on a role as almost a
especially when dealing with problems but also showing
mentor to them. I also worked closely with other council
recognition toward others.
presidents including Interfraternity Council (IFC) and
The United Sorority & Fraternity Council (USFC) on
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR SISTERS
even bigger community issues beyond Panhellenic. We
WHO HOPE TO BECOME LEADERS?
really focused on building community, educational
experiences and creating unity between the councils.
My one piece of advice would be to be a "Yes Girl". You
never know what opportunities can come by just saying
WHAT HAVE YOU GAINED FROM YOUR
"yes," whether it's a sister asking for help with a sisterhood
LEADERSHIP ROLES?
event or the recruitment chair needing help with a
recruitment round. You could gain leadership skills or
I've never felt more empowered than being on the
networking just from being able to help someone out. Just
Panhellenic board. All these smart, passionate women
be open-minded to opportunities that come your way!
THE LYRE
57
ALUMNA INITIATE SPOTLIGHT
Mother and Daughter,
Sisters in the Bond
BY LAURA KNOBEL (IOTA ALPHA, ALUMNAE
Yet Alyssa always knew the power of sisterhood as she
INITIATES), ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF
witnessed her mom's connections with her Alpha Chi
LIFETIME ENGAGEMENT
sisters deepen over a lifetime. "I have always admired the
bond my mom shares with her sorority sisters. [They]
hen someone says something is "peanuts,"
were with her the day she met my dad, they were in their
W
they usually mean it's a very small thing,
wedding and they have been ever present in my life," she
perhaps not even worth considering. But it's
recalls. "They are each glowing examples of real, strong
the smallest things that can make the biggest impact.
women."
For Alyssa Overmyer (Iota Alpha, Alumnae Initiates), if it
One sister in particular to whom Debbie has remained
weren't for peanuts, she wouldn't be an Alpha Chi Omega
close is Mari-jean Siehl (Alpha Omicron).
- or perhaps even be here!
"It was Mari-jean who was instrumental in bringing Alyssa
In 1977, Dennis Overmyer stood up in his Alpha Gamma
into the sisterhood of Alpha Chi Omega," Debbie shares.
Sigma agricultural fraternity meeting at The Ohio State
"She had mentioned that the sorority offered to women
University and said, "My wife could be walking down 15th
who never joined a sorority during their undergraduate
Avenue and I would never have the opportunity to meet
years the chance to become an Alpha Chi through the
her." This persuasive argument was enough to convince his
National Alumna Initiate Program (NAIP)."
brothers they should host more social activities with the
sororities on campus.
Alyssa knew right away that this was the right path for
her. "I have always admired what Alpha Chi stands for,"
Deborah "Debbie" Pfeifer was in one of those sororities
she says. "To me, Alpha Chi is about not only elevating
- the Alpha Omicron chapter of Alpha Chi Omega, to be
yourself but the women around you. When I recite
exact. At a mixer between the two groups, Debbie spotted
The Symphony, I get
Dennis from across the room, and to get his attention, she
emotional. The words
threw peanuts at him! As Debbie (now Overmyer) says,
are SO beautiful and
"The rest is history."
relevant to everyday
life."
That history has included marriage, making a home
together, a myriad of career changes and raising two
Alyssa also has
children, one of whom is Alyssa, now an accomplished
a servant's heart
CPA and audit senior manager at a respected firm.
and resonated
with Alpha Chi's
Like her parents and her older brother, Alyssa attended
philanthropic
The Ohio State University, but unlike her parents, she
endeavors. She has
never found herself in a Greek organization given her
represented her firm
challenging coursework and the many other student
for the past eight years
activities she enjoyed.
as a 50-mile bike rider
ALYSSA AT THE ALPHA OMICRON
for Pelotonia, which
CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION
58 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
Alpha
Chi
Omega
became sisters in the Bond. It was a dream fulfilled."
Alyssa remembers the ceremony vividly. "During
initiation, I was taking it all in I wanted to be as present
103
as possible and not miss a thing," she says. "It was SO special
to have my mom and Mari-jean [be] part of the ceremony."
True to form, Alyssa has wasted no time after initiation
expanding her passion for making a difference to our
sisterhood and the alumnae experience.
"Alyssa has totally embraced the mantra of membership
in Alpha Chi Omega being a lifelong commitment," says
Debbie.
Adds Alyssa, "I think there is a misconception that joining
a sorority is only for when you are in college The fact
that Alpha Chi offers an alumna initiate program is great
(LEFT TO RIGHT) DEBBIE, ALYSSA AND MARI-JEAN AT
because it demonstrates that being in a sorority is for a
ALYSSA'S INITIATION
lifetime. Never pass up an opportunity to join in. I think
you will find you will be glad you did."
raises funds for cancer research; has run several marathons
to benefit different charities; serves as a national facilitator
And join in, she did. After attending the Alpha Omicron
for her firm's training program; and has even donated her
centennial celebration with her mom, Alyssa was elected
hair to the Wigs for Kids organization.
vice president of membership for Alpha Iota Alpha
alumnae chapter in Columbus, Ohio, and is excited to help
"Making a difference is my main goal in life. I try to make
grow the chapter and connect with even more sisters.
a difference every day," Alyssa says.
In the meantime, Debbie is excited to deepen her sisterly
Debbie sees this effort from her daughter and says, "It is
connection to her daughter. "Future plans include Alyssa,
this unselfish giving of herself that tugs at my heart strings.
Mari-jean and I traveling to Indianapolis next July for
I couldn't be prouder of Alyssa. She is a beautiful young
convention," she says. On how Alyssa will grow through
woman with a kind heart and generous spirit."
alumna membership, Debbie adds, "I can't wait to see how
the newest carnation in our Alpha Chi bouquet continues
Mari-jean agreed and eagerly got the NAIP process rolling
to bloom."
for Alyssa. In addition to Mari-jean and Debbie, three
other Alpha Omicron sisters served as Alyssa's sponsors for
IS THERE AN
membership. After an application and interview process
OUTSTANDING WOMAN
with the NAIP panel, Alyssa completed her new member
IN YOUR LIFE YOU'D
LIKE TO CALL A SISTER?
education and was ready to experience our Ritual.
SPONSOR HER FOR
ALPHA CHI OMEGA
On March 24, 2023, Alyssa was initiated into Alpha Chi
MEMBERSHIP THROUGH
THE NATIONAL ALUMNA
Omega with the collegiate new member class at Alpha
INITIATE PROGRAM! SCAN
Omicron. Recalls Debbie, "I had the honor and privilege
THE QR CODE TO SUBMIT
YOUR SPONSORSHIP
to pin Alyssa with Mari-jean's golden lyre badge. That day
FORM TODAY.
Lyss and I became more than mother and daughter, we
THE LYRE
59
ACCOMPLISHED ALUMNA
Unexpected Adventures
BY LINDSAY DUBE (GAMMA RHO, TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY)
f you had asked me what I would be doing my
I
senior semester of undergrad, a 170-mile bike-
packing trip over spring break would not have made
the list of possibilities. But nevertheless, there I was - on
a six-day trip on the Monumental Loop in southern
New Mexico. In a class called Adventure Media at Texas
Tech University, I was camping under the stars in the
desert, riding long miles over mountain ranges, and
documenting the entire experience through a camera
lens to turn into a documentary.
Much like my adventure into bike-packing, finding the
sisterhood of Alpha Chi Omega was not something that I
LINDSAY DUBE DURING HER TREK
ever pictured when I started college. No one in my family
PHOTO CREDIT: JEROD FOSTER
had ever been a part of Greek life, and none of my high
school friends were planning on participating.
I don't have any biological sisters, just a younger brother
who means the world to me. Nevertheless, I found true
I came to Texas Tech in the fall of 2019 eager to soak up
sisterhood in the relationships I built with my Alpha Chi
any experience I could. Heavily involved in yearbook and
Omega sisters - in my Greek family, all my roommates
journalism in high school, I quickly found a job working
in the house we lovingly called the "A Chi Home," the
for our college yearbook, La Ventana, as the social media
executive board I served Gamma Rho with and every
editor. Midway through my first semester, I was assigned
other sister who touched my life.
a story about Bid Day. This was my first exposure to
Greek life at Texas Tech. It was my job to interview
The same year I joined the sisterhood of Alpha Chi
all kinds of women involved in Panhellenic sororities
Omega, I was also officially diagnosed with muscular
about their Bid Day experiences. I was quickly fascinated
dystrophy - specifically facioscapulohumeral muscular
and dove into a YouTube rabbit hole about all things
dystrophy (FSHD). I say "officially" only because this
Greek life and learned everything I could about the
did not come as a total surprise. My father, uncle and
process. When registration finally opened for fall 2020
grandmother are all affected by this disease, SO I always
recruitment, I was PNM #35.
knew the possibility I would also have it.
Like the rest of the world, I never imagined the
I won't bore you with all the details, but FSHD is a genetic
COVID-19 pandemic and its impacts on everything.
neuromuscular disease that is degenerative and currently
Recruitment was fully transformed into a virtual
incurable. Essentially, when my muscles break down, there
experience, but in the end, I found my home at
is no getting them back. Eventually it will likely affect my
Alpha Chi Omega! Like many of my sisters, I could feel
mobility, strength and appearance. While I was prepared
the authenticity and sincereness when talking to older
for the diagnosis, it doesn't make the reality any easier -
members about their experiences. I never had to question
it's hard knowing that my body will eventually betray me.
if I was welcomed or accepted for who I was at Alpha Chi
Omega.
60
ALPHA CHI OMEGA
So with my diagnosis in mind, why in the world would I
sign up for one of the most physically demanding classes
that Texas Tech offers in my last semester of undergrad?
Simple. Why not?
Adventure Media is a one-of-a-kind experiential learning
opportunity that's focused on audio visual production,
creativity and storytelling all while engaging in
challenging outdoor recreation. Bike-packing, specifically,
is an activity like hiking and camping, but instead of
carrying a large pack, everything you need is strapped to
your bike. It's tempting to think this might be easy I
mean, it's just riding a bike. But that couldn't be farther
from the truth.
LINDSAY DUBE BIKE-PACKING
This class prepared me to travel 170 miles by bike over
PHOTO CREDIT: COLTON ROHRBACK
challenging terrain. I am not exaggerating when I say we
pushed up steep mountain passes, rocky remote trails
sticking around no matter what I do - SO I might as well
and ankle-deep sandy paths on our journey along the
surround it with as much joy, adventure and laughter as
Monumental Loop. That trek was one of the hardest
I can manage. Truthfully, most of my friends and sisters
physical and mental challenges I have ever faced, but
didn't even know about my diagnosis until recently.
also the most rewarding. I was able to discover parts of
Not because I was ashamed or sad to talk about it, but
myself I didn't know existed and focus my diagnosis into
because I really believe that the rest of my story is SO
gratitude for the body I have now.
much more interesting.
I am absolutely determined not to let FSHD stop me
Because of my diagnosis and the sisterhood I found in
from living life to the fullest. The way I see it, FSHD is
Alpha Chi, very quickly being a real, strong woman was
something I took a lot of pride in. For me it means a lot
of things: being able to persevere, being kind, being a
good sister, being a good human and supporting things I
believe in. It became personal.
While I recognize that my journey through life is
really just getting started, I have learned that the best
adventures typically come from unexpected places.
Whether it's biking through tough trails or finding sisters
at Alpha Chi Omega, I've learned that strength isn't
solely determined by physical ability.
My hope is that others struggling with the unchangeable
or uncontrollable parts of life know that they are stronger
than their circumstances. We are real, strong women. It is
important to do hard things. You only get one chance at
LINDSAY (FIRST ROW, SECOND FROM RIGHT) WITH HER
creating an extraordinary life, SO take it!
FELLOW CHAPTER EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS
THE LYRE
61
ARCHIVES
THEN AND NOW
Alpha Chi Omega Chapter
Consultants
BY SALLY CUTLER (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY),
HISTORIAN AND ARCHIVIST, AND MICHELLE
CRITCHFIELD (OMICRON, BAKER UNIVERSITY),
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF COLLEGIATE GROWTH
Have you ever thought
about what Alpha Chi
Omega was doing 10, 20,
S
ince 1955, Alpha Chi Omega
50 years ago? How have
has employed consultants to
Full-Time Fraternity Work!
things changed for our
provide on-site coaching and
members and organization?
support to our collegiate chapters.
How have they stayed the
The program began with one
Alpha Chi Seeks
same? Taken from previous
consultant, Charlene Moore (Chi,
Traveling Secretaries
Lyre magazines, the "Then
Oregon State University), after the
Chi,
Alpha
Omega
seeking
two
and Now" series offers a
hiring was approved by the National
from
among
this
graduating
from
have
among
been
college
understanding
friend
glimpse into what life was
Council. At the time the position
in
the
chapter.
see
the
travel
living
viewpoint
well
Fraternity
like for Alpha Chi Omegas
was titled "traveling secretary."
career
the
Charlene
has
been
particularly
scholarship programs
Usually
expect
to
throughout history.
According to the December 1955
month
six
one
the
chap
period
may
longer
situation
indicates
issue of The Lyre (pictured), "Those
Job
the
requirements
for
traveling
The chapter consultant
who can qualify will have a chance
the
being
recent
graduate?
their Fraternity.
Jones:
shown
ap-
leadership on her
program is an
to travel, to get acquainted with
high scholastically, have
of
at
the
April
responsibility
have
first
chapter,
unparalleled professional
various colleges or universities, the
the
of
women,
chapter
ad
graduate
of
president,
chapter
Charlene
attended
the
Applications
be
Training
School
Jones
opportunity for our real,
opportunity to work with college
(with
the
province
and
district
Charlene
alumnae
a
member
chairmen)
of
Mortar
Board,
Kappa
and
Phi,
received
Nu,
home
strong women looking
girls, plus the satisfaction of being of
training
from
president
tional
collegiate
junior
and
national
secretary
of
the
service to the Fraternity."
of
to make Alpha Chi
the
American
Home
Eco
According
received
the
Shepard
Drucilla
the
senior
woman
Omega a part of their
average
Charlene
Alpha
Chi
the
Omega's
first
field
careers and gain unique
According to Burnette Grimes
experience directly
Jones (Omega, Washington State
relevant to their future
University), national collegiate vice
endeavors. Each year,
president at the time, "A traveling
the consultants -
secretary is a counsellor and friend.
During her visits, some of which lasted
representing chapters
She can stay with a chapter for a
as long as six weeks, Charlene focused
from across the country
much longer period than a visiting
on scholarship, recruitment support
- make an immediate
officer and therefore is not only able
and new member programming. Job
and lasting impact on
to give helpful ideas but can stay
requirements for the position included
our collegiate chapters.
long enough to see them integrated
campus and chapter leadership, academic
What started with a
in the chapter. She is young enough
excellence, and strong recommendations
single consultant has
to be an understanding friend to
from university leaders and chapter
grown into a large
every girl in the chapter. She can see
advisors. Faythe Luther Vorderstrasse
and impactful part of
the collegiate viewpoint as well as
(Chi, Oregon State University) carried
the Alpha Chi Omega
the Fraternity national picture."
the program forward the next year,
experience.
visiting 78 collegiate chapters.
62 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
Returning consultant Allison Chambers (Epsilon Kappa,
California State University, Fullerton) adds, "Spending
2023
the last year and a half as a resident consultant for
Alpha Chi Omega has given me the opportunity to
develop professional skills while working within a
supportive community of sisters. The consultant role
teaches me every day how to make vital connections
with the people I work with and how to find balance in
T
oday, Alpha Chi Omega has a team of chapter
my own life. Being a consultant has provided me with
consultants, which varies in size each year
more growth in just over a year than I can imagine being
depending on the needs of the organization. The
able to achieve in any other job!"
consultant team for the 2023-24 academic year consists
of 16 recent graduates. Consultants come from a variety
Interested in serving as a chapter consultant or know of
of chapters across the country and join the team with
someone who would be a great candidate? Contact Taylor
leadership experiences ranging from chapter presidents
Hill, associate director of collegiate experience, at thill@
to non-executive board officers, convention pages and
alphachiomega.org to share your interest and learn more
campus leaders.
about this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!
Chapter consultants have one of two assignments -
resident or traveler. Resident consultants are located
near a college or university to provide hands-on support
for a chapter in that area. Chapters that have resident
consultants include those undergoing establishment,
newer chapters within the new chapter development
program or designated established chapters. The
remaining established chapters are supported by a
traveling consultant. Traveling consultants have a
portfolio of several chapters which receive support
virtually or through in-person visits, lasting from a few
days to a few weeks. Consultants today support chapters
in all operational areas, including recruitment and
retention, leadership development, accountability and
marketing.
Chapter consultants are hired on an annual basis and
typically serve in their roles for one or two years. Current
2023-24 CHAPTER CONSULTANTS
traveling consultant Tory Wiley (Theta Iota, Baylor
University) has had a great experience since joining
the team in June. Tory shares, "Serving as a chapter
ALPHA CHI OMEGA CONSULTANT FACTS
consultant enriches my 'why Alpha Chi' every day.
Since 1955, there have been more than 420 chapter
Seeing and engaging in the bond of Alpha Chi Omega
consultants.
across the country has shown me the vast impact this
The largest consultant class was in 2015-16 with
organization makes on women nationally. Working in
24 members.
this role has refined my leadership ability, confidence and
This academic year, four chapters have resident
professionalism more than I ever imagined."
consultants.
The consultant application opens each fall for the
following academic year.
LIFE
Reunite and Reconnect
BY LAURA KNOBEL
group of sisters simply wants a reason to get together, the
(IOTA ALPHA, ALUMNAE INITIATES),
effort to plan a reunion is always worth it to reignite the
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF LIFETIME ENGAGEMENT
bonds of sisterhood after time apart.
A
sk any Alpha Chi from the DePauw University
Although they were in different new member classes, the
class of 1969 how that group has stayed so close
Alpha Chis who graduated from DePauw in 1969 were
post-graduation, and she will tell you about their
determined to maintain those bonds and have done SO
class newsletter. Created on a whim in 1970 and then
successfully for more than half a century. Starting with
repeated every year without fail, its result has been a steadfast
the class newsletter, extending to DePauw class reunions
connection that has strengthened with the passage of time. A
every five years and continuing with regular meetups in
friendship begun during the days of co-ed hours, fraternity
between, sisters continue making memories in each of
serenades, family-style dinners and serious bridge games
the small moments they share.
is deeper and more meaningful today than any could have
imagined.
"My favorite times during our reunions are simply sitting
around and talking - in a group or with individuals,"
So began the email from Linda Budelsky when she wrote
says Barbara White Parker. "Even at this most recent time
to Alpha Chi Omega headquarters to share a recent
in Florida, I learned new things about sisters I've known
photo of 15 members of her Alpha chapter graduating
for 58 years.
class. What was intended as a brief update for The Lyre
Such a joy!"
opened the door to a tale of meaningful friendships and
the power of intentional gathering.
Of course, every
family has at
SMALL MOMENTS, BIG MEMORIES
least one story
that becomes
Each day collegiate chapter members share laughs over
dinner table
meals, stay up late preparing for chapter events, spend
fodder for all
long hours studying and SO much more together. It is
time, and this
in the smallest of moments that the most unforgettable
group of sisters
memories are made.
is no exception.
"When we were
Lisa's fellow 1969 graduate Barbara Heisel Manning
about 68 years
THE 1969 ALPHA GRADUATES
recalls her own small moments with sisters. "In those
old and gathered
COUNT AMONG THEIR RANKS
days we had 'hours' after which we had to be safely
at a resort, the
ELIZABETH "BETSY" CLARK SWANK,
ensconced in the house. We bonded over candlelight
balconies of
GREAT-GRANDDAUGHTER OF
ALPHA CHI OMEGA FOUNDER
ceremonies, after-hours pizza, gabbing about the new guy
our rooms were
OLIVE BURNETT CLARK, "A FACT
with whom we had just been on a 'Coke date' and setting
huge," Barbara
WHICH OUR GROUP FINDS
our hair with orange juice can rollers."
M. recalls.
ENDLESSLY MEANINGFUL,
"Seventeen of us
FASCINATING AND DELIGHTFUL!"
But after graduation, post-college life without your
were out on the
SHARES LISA. BETSY IS PICTURED
sisters nearby at all times can be a difficult adjustment.
balcony gabbing
WITH A PHOTO OF OLIVE
FROM THE 1965 NEW MEMBER
Whether a chapter is celebrating a centennial, a class
at around 9 or
EDUCATION BOOK.
of sisters is reaching a membership milestone year or a
10 p.m. and
64 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
THE FABULOUS CLASS OF
Alpha Newsletter Chi Omega
Clips from 1980-1984
Memories
THE 1980-84
As an intro to this 1980-84
AND 1985-90
Barbara
retrospective,
Manning's from the 10th comment Reunion
this
did "I don't on campus, know if you but all got the same feedback
1979. She Edition she created for us,
couldn't
believe
everybody
how
said
how
NEWSLETTER CLIPS
1985-1990
and
actually
how
fabulous
many
Alpha
they
Chis
photos
we
COLOR-COPIED
Seriously,
our
party
turned
sent
her
who
could
was
out
CONTAIN UPDATES
way
and
then
wish
reputed
mailed
for
the
friendship
in
her
to
be..
several-page
shared
and
wildest
compilation!
and
the
love
dreams
Street?"
our
that
beautiful
was
home
formed
FROM SISTERS
on
Seminary
Barb H.M., 1979
LIVING COAST TO
COAST AND IN
Newslette
THE PHILIPPINES,
changes
SOUTH KOREA
AND BRAZIL. IN
One of our big adventures
RECOUNTING THE
condo at Indian Rocks Beach. However,
have you heard of Elena, Juan and Kate?
WOMEN'S 10
These three hurricanes knocked down the
sea wall and eroded the beach (we were
GG
KIDS"
STUFF
ANNIVERSARY
lucky -our building and pool had no dam-
"Our
age). The area was hit so hard that there
REUNION, ONE
making
names
is sightseeing boat that goes past our
instance,
world.
for
who,
Take
Wendy,
for
found Kid hunted for Cathy's and searched birthday last for a girl Cabbage Patch
raise her feet rather during than choir, her has been known to
one
April
SISTER WROTE,
beach to see the destruction! Betsy R.S.
now
needs
she
and
a
has
brother
for
decided
finally
recognition."
hand
she
Christmas.
that
when
prowl again!"
so
1985
Barb W.P. 1980
Martha,
am
on
the
"WHO COULD WISH
sometimes can't believe
IN HER WILDEST
It's never dul
the
that am old (ancient???)
due
enough to have a
"Ryan will be 10 in
DREAMS FOR THE
strike.
kindergartner and
grader."
fifth
September and is
Debby, 1983
already 591/2 inches
'hobby'
tall. continued
FRIENDSHIP AND
so "Paige likes to ask me a dozen
become
THE LOVE THAT
little times day: 'When you or a
pants."
love girl, The did you stay up late? wuz
WAS FORMED AND
Incredible
your
Hulk?
beans?, milk? etc" have to eat lima
...spill
1980
"The
day
SHARED IN OUR
Seoul
as
much
as
said
realized
to
that
him
Garrett
are
not
enjoying
Spreener, 1980
took
We
with
Tokyo
however,
me
understood
compete
that
completely
by
most
an
of
to
we
surprise..
what
may
we
BEAUTIFUL HOME
difficult
Garrett
have
started
to
been
in
Modern Japanese Prints is going very
Japan
realized,
bow
too
flu the first food he asked 'Thank for was you' tofu," and after
long
when
ON SEMINARY
buying
trip
to
Tokyo.
a
bout
with
an
occasional
the
Gail, 1980
STREET?"
there was a knock on the door. When a couple of us went
we were able to celebrate or mourn it all together - but
to answer it, there was a security guard with the most
from afar," she says.
surprised look on his face. He looked down at his notes
and back up at our gray hair and sheepishly said he had
Barbara P. agrees and recalls of the newsletter, "It started
received a noise complaint from the guys next door who
out as a mailing with 25 letters in a packet. Thank
had a 6 a.m. tee time and wanted to sleep. We've dined
goodness we have morphed into modern technology;
out on that story a bunch!"
we now do it online!" She adds, "Communication is the
essence of any good relationship, I think, and that is what
FIRST STEPS
has made our bond SO
solid."
IF YOU FIND OUT
The unique bonds formed through a shared chapter
THAT A SISTER HAS
A NEW ADDRESS OR
experience are irreplicable and irreplaceable. And they
To connect with
CONTACT INFORMATION,
can be maintained if sisters work together to coordinate
sisters, log in to My
EMAIL AXOINFO@
communication and initiate plans for a virtual or in-
Alpha Chi and click on
ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG
person gathering. Like the sisters from Alpha chapter,
Directories and then
OR HAVE HER LOG IN
consider reaching out to your new member class,
Member Search. Use
TO MY ALPHA CHI AND
graduating class or both! Perhaps you will decide to start
the filters to search
UPDATE HER MEMBER
a newsletter as they did, and it will be the first of many
based on chapter,
PROFILE. SCAN THE QR
CODE TO UPDATE YOUR
years of staying in touch.
first or last name
INFO SO SISTERS CAN
and even initiated
FIND YOU!
Paula Ilardo agrees that the Alpha group's newsletter was
last name. Contact
the key to keeping sisters connected. "Our first jobs, first
lifetimeengagement@
homes, first marriages, birth of our children, job moves,
alphachiomega.org for
world travels, divorces, new marriages, loss of parents,
larger member lists.
birth of grandchildren, retirement and loss of spouses
LIFE
ALPHA
1965
1989
1999
almost home
2019
2023
MAKING IT HAPPEN
where everyone can meet frequently. That's where the
fun happens!"
As for planning an in-person meetup, perhaps Founders'
Day, Hera Day, Alpha Chi Night Out, or a campus event
If someone can't attend in person, consider adding a
like homecoming or class reunion becomes the catalyst
virtual component SO she doesn't miss out. As Barbara
for getting together. Start with brunch or dinner and
M. shares of their 2023 reunion, "We FaceTimed with the
share memories of your time together on campus. Ask
three sisters who couldn't make it, which added to the
those in attendance who they are still in touch with from
fun and made them feel like they were with us."
your generation of sisters to expand your reach.
For Paula, all of the effort of planning a reunion is worth
Paula stepped up as event organizer for the Alpha
it. "Being the reunion organizer is work, but it is very
chapter graduates and offers planning advice to sisters
satisfying in the end when you see everyone hugging,
hoping to transform casual connections into a formal
talking and sharing pictures on their phones!" she shares.
reunion. "Give everyone choices of locations to vote on
that are centrally located or easy to reach by air with easy
When asked what she would say to sisters considering
transportation to the place where you are staying. Next,
a reunion, Barbara M. says, "I would wish that their
determine if they want to stay by themselves or with
reunion could be one-tenth as amazing as ours have
roommates. If they want roommates, each could choose
been and tell them to go for it." Lisa agrees and feels that
their roommate, or the organizer could choose them
reunions can offer Alpha Chi Omegas a new perspective
randomly. Random may result in new, closer friendships
on the sisterhood we share. She says, "As sisters for
being formed at the reunion!"
almost 60 years, the bond we spoke of SO earnestly as
undergraduates in the 1960s, we now truly understand."
Paula continues, "Then, decide what type of
[accommodations] you want Smaller classes may find
WANT TO PLAN YOUR OWN REUNION WITH SISTERS?
a VRBO the perfect solution. We have tried casual resorts
VISIT THE RESOURCE CENTER IN MY ALPHA CHI
where we stayed for the entire visit as well as hotels in big
AND SEARCH "REUNIONS" FOR A GUIDE ON
cities where we visited attractions. We also found it very
GETTING STARTED. EMAIL LIFEETIMEENGAGEMENT@
important to choose a resort/hotel where one of your
ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG IF YOU NEED FURTHER
rooms could be big enough to serve as a hospitality suite
SUPPORT. STAFF IS HERE TO HELP!
66 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
BUSINESS
Alpha Chi Omega
Alpha Chi Omega
Have You Considered
Board Service?
S
ome sisters have been waiting for board service
manager, at ewest@alphachiomega.org to arrange a call
recommendations to open; others are just
with a board member.
learning about the opportunity now! Either
way, we invite members to explore volunteering on an
In addition to board service, Alpha Chi Omega
Alpha Chi Omega national board as a way to give back
is also seeking qualified alumnae to serve on the
to our sisterhood. Recommendations are now being
National Nominating Committee (NNC) and help
accepted!
identify the future leaders of the organization.
The Alpha Chi Omega Enterprise is led by three boards
If you know an alumna sister who can make a
of alumnae volunteers - the Fraternity National
difference as a national-level volunteer, please continue
Council, the Foundation Board of Trustees and the
reading to learn about the specific duties of each board
National Housing Corporation Board of Directors. Each
and of the National Nominating Committee. We also
year depending on terms, some of the boards request
highly encourage self-recommendations! Thank you for
recommendations for new volunteers. While each
considering these impactful volunteer opportunities.
board governs a different entity with a specific focus
area, all boards share the need for strategic thinkers and
BOARD AND NNC ELECTION TIMELINE
visionary leaders.
February 15, 2024: Deadline to submit a
The following board positions are open at this time
recommendation for all roles
for terms beginning August 1, 2024:
March 15, 2024: Deadline to submit materials to be
One National Council president
considered a candidate for all roles
Five National Council vice presidents
Four Foundation trustees
March-May, 2024: Recommendations and
Four National Housing Corporation directors
candidate information reviewed; interviews held;
candidates selected for the Foundation and NHC
While previous volunteer experience with Alpha Chi
Omega is a benefit, it is not required, and expertise from
May 13, 2024: National Council and NNC slates
professional roles, leadership in other organizations
announced
and other personal experiences are valuable. Alpha Chi
Omega needs candidates who are dedicated to the
June 2, 2024: National Council and NNC petition
Real. Strong. Women. Experience and skilled in board
deadline
governance and strategic planning. The organization
is seeking more alumnae members to aspire for board
June 12, 2024: National Council and NNC materials
service with the pool of candidates representing the
sent to voting delegates for election at the 2024 National
diversity of our members and our campuses.
Convention
Our current board members are always happy to share
August 1, 2024: Terms begin for all roles
about their experience with prospective candidates and
answer questions. Please email Erin West, executive
THE LYRE
67
BUSINESS
RECOMMEND OUR 2024-26
National Council
SHAPE ALPHA C H I OMEGA'S FUTURE
leave a lasting mark on Alpha Chi Omega.
L
The National Council is the visionary and
2022-24 NATIONAL
strategic leadership of Alpha Chi Omega, and
NOMINATING COMMITTEE
we are looking to you to help us identify the real,
Viancca Burger Williams, PhD (Gamma Pi,
strong women whose vision, passion and dedication
University of Tampa), Chair
will shape our Fraternity's future. Your voice matters.
Mary Baker (Delta Mu, University of
When you recommend sisters - or yourself - for the
Massachusetts), Chair-Elect
National Council, you share in the privilege and the
Kristin Himsel (Alpha, DePauw University),
responsibility of ensuring Alpha Chi Omega continues
Alumna Member
to shape the future through powerful, transformative
and everlasting connections.
Kelly Kilgour (Kappa Nu, Carnegie Mellon
University), Alumna Member
WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR
Maria Robinson (Epsilon Theta, California State
University, Sacramento), Alumna Member
We're looking for Alpha Chi Omega sisters who embody:
Yahaira Trejo (Kappa Rho, University of North
Carolina at Charlotte), Collegiate Member
Strategic thinking and strong leadership skills
Mary Pat Lambke (Beta Epsilon, Michigan State
A deep understanding of higher education and
University), Alternate Alumna Member
Panhellenic trends
Prior experience with governing boards
Quinna Sypher (Beta Chi, Willamette University),
Alternate Collegiate Member
Expertise in organizational development, change
management, enterprise models and financial strategies
A dedication to equity and inclusion, reflecting the
NATIONAL COUNCIL OVERVIEW
diversity of our membership in culture, age, ethnicity,
race, sexual orientation and lived experiences
The National Council consists of a National President
A passionate commitment to Alpha Chi Omega
and five national vice presidents. These six women
are the visionaries, leaders and ambassadors of
Alpha Chi Omega's past, present and future. They direct
Alpha Chi Omega Fraternity, Inc., always mindful
of the organization's strategic plan. The real, strong
women who serve on the National Council are initiates
of chapters across the country and reflect different
professions, backgrounds and demographics.
QUALIFICATIONS
Qualified candidates should be alumnae members in
good standing and possess leadership experience and
expertise beneficial to our Fraternity, as stated above.
SEEKING REAL, STRONG WOMEN FOR SERVICE!
68 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
To serve as National President, candidates must have
TIPS TO ELEVATE YOUR
current or previous National Council service.
RECOMMENDATION
Position descriptions can be found by scanning the QR
1. Know the requirements. Read the National Council
code below. For additional insights into qualities and
position description.
skill sets needed in National Council members, review
2. Understand Alpha Chi Omega's goals. Explore the
the Strategic Plan: Beyond 2020 and Alpha Chi Omega's
Strategic Plan: Beyond 2020.
governing documents on the Resource Center at WWW.
3. Assess qualifications. Which sisters do you believe
my.alphachiomega.org.
should lead the Fraternity?
4. Have a conversation. Reach out to sisters who you
PROCESS
think would make exceptional candidates.
Recommendations are due February 15, 2024.
5. Recommend multiple sisters. Do not limit yourself
Potential candidates will be contacted to gauge
to just one recommendation; recommend anyone you
interest and willingness to move forward.
think belongs on the National Council.
Each potential candidate will be sent a Prospective
6. Recommend yourself. Self-recommendations are a
Candidate Questionnaire (PCQ), to be completed
fantastic opportunity for personal and professional
and returned to the National Nominating
growth as you explore volunteer opportunities.
Committee (NNC) by March 15, 2024. Only those
who have completed a PCQ will be considered
SUBMIT YOUR RECOMMENDATIONS
official candidates, which includes any member who
TODAY AND BE PART OF SHAPING
opts to petition the slate.
ALPHA CHI OMEGA'S FUTURE!
Candidates who submit a completed PCQ will
undergo a thorough and thoughtful assessment by
DATES TO REMEMBER
the NNC of their unique qualities and expertise
regarding Alpha Chi Omega's key issues, challenges
February 15, 2024:
and opportunities.
Recommendations can
The NNC will select a slate of candidates to form
be submitted by scanning
the National Council and officially announce it to
the QR code or visiting
the membership no later than May 13, 2024.
www.alphachiomega.org/
Our Articles of Incorporation provide a petition
volunteeropportunities and
process for those candidates not slated. A petition
scrolling down to the National
for nomination to the National Council, signed by
Leadership section.
the petitioner, shall be filed with the NNC chair in
March 15, 2024: Potential candidate questionnaire
accordance with Fraternity policies no later than
(PCQ) deadline
June 2, 2024.
Voting delegates will receive one distribution
May 13, 2024: Slated candidates announced to
of information and biographies of slated and
membership
petitioning candidates no later than June 12, 2024.
Voting will occur at the 2024 National Convention.
June 2, 2024: Petition deadline
Nominations may not be made from the floor
June 12, 2024: One distribution of all candidates
unless a vacancy occurs on the slate during the
(slated and petitioners) to voting delegates
election. National Council members will be elected
by a majority of the votes from voting delegates.
July 12,2024: National Convention begins
August 1, 2024: Term of service begins
Email nncaxo@gmail.com with any questions!
BUSINESS
NOW SEEKING RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE 2024-26
National Nominating
Commitee
DEAR ALPHA CHI OMEGA SISTERS,
The National Council is seeking members to serve on Alpha Chi Omega's 2024-26 National
Nominating Committee (NNC). The NNC is charged with identifying women who have the vision,
skills and professional experience to serve as the elected board leadership of Alpha Chi Omega on the
2026-28 National Council.
In accordance with Fraternity policies, the National Council will prepare a slate of candidates to be
voted on by delegates at the 2024 National Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana. The slate will consist
of four alumnae members (a chair-elect and three alumnae members) and one alternate alumna
member; the 2024-26 chair was elected on the previous slate as the chair-elect role and is not up for
election this year. In preparing the slate, the National Council attempts to assemble a team of women
who represent the diversity of our membership and are knowledgeable about important issues of the
Fraternity as well as its governance structure.
QUALIFICATIONS
Recommended individuals should be Alpha Chi Omega alumnae in good standing with an
understanding of board governance and the National Fraternity as well as the ability to analyze the
needs of the Fraternity and qualifications of prospective candidates. Experience recruiting board
members for nonprofit organizations or prior participation in a confidential nomination and slating
process is valuable experience for this committee.
NNC members agree to maintain strict confidentiality regarding prospective nominees and the
deliberations of the committee and shall have no conflicts of interest with the National Fraternity,
including potential for personal financial gain from National Council decisions.
A candidate for the NNC may not, at any point during the NNC term to which she is elected, serve
on any Alpha Chi Omega corporation board or hold any office which makes her a voting delegate at
the 2026 National Convention (or the 2028 National Convention for the chair-elect), including being
a Past National President. Members of the 2024-26 NNC agree not to be candidates for the 2026-28
National Council (or the 2028-30 National Council for the chair-elect).
70 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
WHAT IS THE TERM OF OFFICE?
SUBMIT
Alumnae members: two years (August 1, 2024 - July 31, 2026)
RECOMMENDATIONS BY:
Chair-elect: four years (August 1, 2024 - July 31, 2028)
Filling out the form available
ACCOUNTABILITY/WORKING RELATIONSHIP
by scanning the QR code or
visiting www.alphachiomega.org/
The NNC is responsible to the Fraternity membership via the national
volunteeropportunities and scrolling
convention delegates. The staffliaison to the NNC is the chief executive
down to the National Leadership
officer.
section
HOW CAN I BE CONSIDERED?
HOW CAN I RECOMMEND A SISTER?
To recommend qualified and respected sisters to serve on the 2024-
26 NNC, complete the recommendation form, now available on the
Alpha Chi Omega website's "Volunteer Opportunities" page, no later
than February 15, 2024. Self-recommendations are welcomed and
DATES TO REMEMBER:
encouraged. Members reflecting the diversity of the Alpha Chi Omega
membership are specifically encouraged to submit a recommendation.
February 15, 2024: Deadline to
All recommended sisters will be asked to complete a candidate
submit a recommendation
information form by March 15 in order to be considered a candidate
for the National Nominating Committee.
March 15, 2024: Deadline to
submit materials to be considered a
The National Council depends on you to recommend qualified and
candidate
respected sisters to serve on the next NNC. Thank you for your interest
and participation in the process of selecting Alpha Chi Omega's future
May 13, 2024: Slate announced
leaders!
June 2, 2024: Petition deadline
Loyally,
June 12, 2024: Materials sent to
Love
voting delegates
July 12, 2024: 2024 National
Convention begins
Lynne/Herndon
National President
August 1, 2024: Term of service
begins
BUSINESS
NOW SEEKING RECOMMENDATIONS FOR
Foundation Board Service
Are you passionate about Alpha Chi Omega?
Do you value strategic thinking and guidance?
Do you have experience in any of the following?
Strategic planning
Fundraising leadership
Professional areas (academia, finance, human resources, law, sales, etc.)
Nonprofit board governance
Do you embrace women's empowerment, equity and inclusivity?
Are you interested in volunteering and giving back to Alpha Chi Omega?
THE ALPHA CHI OMEGA FOUNDATION
BOARD OF TRUSTEES IS LOOKING FOR YOU!
As one of the boards comprising the national leadership of Alpha Chi Omega, the BOT is a group of alumnae
focused on continuing the future of Alpha Chi Omega. Coming from across the country, trustees vary in age and
experience in order to represent our members. The BOT is seeking diverse women of all ages, ethnicities, races
and societal backgrounds who have the experience and passion to help shape the future of the Alpha Chi Omega
Foundation. The Foundation's mission states:
The Alpha Chi Omega Foundation strives to realize and sustain the educational and philanthropic values of Alpha Chi Omega
through successful fundraising and stewardship. Generous gifts from our members and friends enhance the Real. Strong. Women.
Experience and empower our members to impact their communities and world positively.
With virtual monthly meetings, the Foundation Board of Trustees is responsible for the strategic guidance of our
professional staff team as well as our mutual fundraising and stewardship efforts. Together, they provide financial resources
to our Fraternity programs that comprise the Real. Strong. Women. Experience, including grants and scholarships. For a
detailed description of trustee responsibilities, please visit www.alphachiomega.org/volunteeropportunities.
RECOMMENDATIONS ARE NOW BEING ACCEPTED!
Candidates will be screened for expertise in the areas of board governance, finance, fundraising and leadership, as
well as matched to the current needs of the board. Diversity of board members is a key priority.
SUBMIT RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE FOUNDATION BOARD
OF TRUSTEES AND THE NHC BOARD OF DIRECTORS BY:
Scanning the QR code or visiting www.alphachiomega.org/volunteeropportunities
and scrolling down to the National Leadership section. Self-recommendations are
encouraged! Email ewest@alphachiomega.org with any questions.
is
72 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
NOW SEEKING RECOMMENDATIONS FOR
NHC Board Service
If you have been looking for a way to serve Alpha Chi Omega and believe you have the leadership and vision that
could shape Alpha Chi Omega's future, the National Housing Corporation (NHC) would love to learn more about
you. One of the boards that makes up the national leadership of our sisterhood, the NHC Board of Directors is
seeking members to serve our sisterhood in a focused, challenging, rewarding and fun way.
IF YOU ANSWER "YES" TO ANY OF THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS,
PLEASE CONSIDER NHC BOARD SERVICE!
Do you have experience in strategic planning and financial oversight?
Have you served on nonprofit boards and have expertise in board, organizational, policy and resource
development?
Do you understand the needs of today's collegiate members?
Do you have the business acumen and analytical skills to think creatively and address challenges and
opportunities?
Do you have a general understanding of nonprofit governance and believe in the fundamental partnership
between board and staff?
Are you driven by mission, values and policies?
Do project management, organizational behavior, legal and risk exposure fall into your wheelhouse of
transferrable skills?
Do you have a career in finance, banking, property management, law or real estate? (These areas can be helpful
but are not mandatory.)
The all-volunteer NHC Board of Directors meets virtually monthly in partnership with our staff to achieve the
NHC's mission - to enhance the Real. Strong. Women. Experience by providing safe and competitive facilities where members
connect, lead, grow and serve - and contributes to the overall success of the Alpha Chi Omega Enterprise. Prior
Alpha
Chi Omega volunteer experience is not required. For a detailed description of director responsibilities, please
visit www.alphachiomega.org/volunteeropportunities.
We are committed to enhancing and broadening the NHC's board membership and cultivating an inclusive
environment valuing all involved. We seek cultural, racial, professional and geographical diversity for the board. We
believe the success of the NHC will depend on having the right blend of skill sets, expertise, network connections,
diverse perspectives and spheres of influence across the board. With a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion,
we encourage all interested members to consider serving.
If you believe you have the vision, skills and talent to further the NHC's mission, submit a recommendation now!
DATES TO REMEMBER:
February 15, 2024:
March-May 2024:
June-July 2024: Transition and
Recommendations due
Recommendations and candidate
onboarding
materials reviewed; candidates
March 15, 2024:
interviewed; board members elected
August 1, 2024: Service begins
Candidate materials due
THE LYRE 73
is
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Meghan Malloy
SIGMA (UNIVERSITY OF IOWA)
ead about the experience of Meghan Malloy,
We make volunteering a
R
who served as a Social Justice Institute facilitator
family affair. It is important
this year. She also serves on the board for two
to me that my three
local organizations, leading one as chairperson. If you're
children find ways they can
MEGHAN MALLOY
inspired to get involved, learn more about volunteering
make positive changes in
with Alpha Chi Omega below!
our community - after all, someday, they and their friends
will be the adults in charge!
WHAT DOES ALPHA CHI MEAN TO YOU?
DO YOU HAVE ADVICE FOR ALUMNAE
Alpha Chi Omega means sisterhood, a space to try new
WHO ARE CONCERNED ABOUT THE TIME
things with encouragement and support, and a network
COMMITMENT TO VOLUNTEER?
to help me reach my greatest potential. Paying it forward
to the next generation of sisters is the best way to show my
First things first - consider how you want to volunteer.
appreciation for everything Alpha Chi Omega has given
Then honestly assess how much time you have on a
me SO far on my own life journey!
weekly, monthly or bimonthly basis. It's OK to start small.
Even a ripple expands through an entire pond, and any
WHAT DID YOU LEARN FROM YOUR
amount of time serving your community is important and
EXPERIENCE AS A SOCIAL JUSTICE
makes an impact.
INSTITUTE FACILITATOR?
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ALPHA CHI
I was thrilled Alpha Chi Omega launched this initiative
OMEGA MEMORY?
this year. Learning in the social justice sphere is a lifelong
pursuit. There was SO much to learn from other sisters'
Too many to count! But truthfully, the nights at the AXO
lived experiences, and being part of an initiative that held
house watching movies, laughing and eating snacks are
space for those experiences was a good reminder for me on
among the best memories I have of being part of Sigma
how to best be an ally and practices I can incorporate to
chapter!
increase equity in my community.
WHAT DO YOU HOPE COMES NEXT FOR
HOW DO YOU BALANCE VOLUNTEERING
YOU IN YOUR ALPHA CHI JOURNEY?
AND YOUR CAREER AND FAMILY
It was incredible to come back to AXO earlier this year
PRIORITIES?
and be part of the first Social Justice Institute - it really felt
I am probably unique in that my volunteering led to
like coming back home! Someday I would love to be an
my current career. From 2021 to October 2022, I was on
advisor for one of our Iowa chapters or contribute at the
the Friends of Iowa CASA and Iowa Citizen Foster Care
national level. LITB!
Review Boards Board of Directors. Since 2014, I had been
in different roles in the child welfare advocacy sphere, SO
If you're interested in volunteering with Alpha Chi Omega, log
when the development director position became open,
in to My Alpha Chi to submit your volunteer interest form. Not
I jumped at the opportunity. Also, the current board
sure what volunteer roles are available? You can access a list of
president is a fellow Sigma sister from my member class!
available volunteer opportunities on My Alpha Chi!
74 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
AXQ CONNECTION
3
1
2
4
COLLEGIATE NOTES
1 BETA PSI (LOUISIANA TECH UNIVERSITY)
3 GAMMA PHI (LAMAR UNIVERSITY)
Sisters welcomed potential new members during open
Members shared about the importance of domestic
house round of recruitment.
violence awareness during their recruitment's
philanthropy round.
2 GAMMA ZETA (UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS)
4 IOTA XI (UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA,
Gamma Zeta members were all smiles during
RIVERSIDE)
sisterhood round of recruitment!
Sisters put their love of Alpha Chi Omega on display
during recruitment!
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75
AXO CONNECTION
5
7
6
8
5 OMICRON (BAKER UNIVERSITY)
7 DELTA NU (IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY)
Dressed in scarlet red, Omicron sisters welcomed
There's nothing like hugging new members on Bid Day!
potential new members to preference during
recruitment.
8 KAPPA CHI (FLORIDA GULF COAST
UNIVERSITY)
6 ZETA PSI (LOYOLA UNIVERSITY NEW
Kappa Chi members had a blast at their first sisterhood
ORLEANS)
retreat of the year.
Sisters greeted their new member class at their
butterfly-themed Bid Day!
76
ALPHA CHI OMEGA
9
11
FRIE
10
12
9 RHO (UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON)
11 KAPPA SIGMA (THE UNIVERSITY OF
SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI)
Rho chapter's 2023 executive board is seeking the
heights! Photo by Andre Stepanov.
No matter the school we're cheering for on game day,
we're always cheering for Alpha Chi!
10 ALPHA PHI (THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS
AT AUSTIN)
12 OMEGA (WASHINGTON STATE
UNIVERSITY)
Alpha Phi chapter served up a fun big/little sister reveal,
with chapter families dressing in costume.
Sisterhood is in bloom at the Omega chapter!
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77
2/5
AXO CONNECTION
1
3
AXQ
REAL. STRONG WOMEN
2
4
ALUMNAE NOTES
1 KAPPA SIGMA KAPPA (LITTLE ROCK,
3 NU XI NU (SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA)
ARKANSAS)
Sisters paused for a photo after their installation as
Chapter members recently gathered to catch up and
alumnae chapter officers.
dine on scrumptious cuisine at the newly renovated
Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts.
4 ALPHA EPSILON ALPHA (WASHINGTON,
DC)
2 MU MU (KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI)
Alumnae chapter members enjoyed a meal together to
Sisters held a welcome back event and had an amazing
celebrate summertime.
time reconnecting and learning about Paws 4 Autism,
an organization that provides kids with service dogs.
Sisters from 10 collegiate chapters were able to enjoy
this fun event!
78 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
5
7
6
8
5 SIGMA SIGMA (ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI)
7 OMICRON PHI OMICRON (ZETA PI
ALUMNAE)
The fall Sigma Sigma Night saw 37 members, including
these six, gather for a salad bar dinner, a raffle and a
The alumnae chapter hosted its annual "Rushing Our
collection of exam treats for the four Missouri collegiate
Seniors" happy hour, inviting seniors from Zeta Pi
chapters they support.
(Arizona State University) to learn about alumnae
chapter membership and leadership opportunities.
6 GAMMA ETA GAMMA (EUGENE, OREGON)
8 BETA OMEGA BETA (PHOENIX, ARIZONA)
To welcome new officers and kick off the program year,
the alumnae chapter enjoyed dinner, socializing and
To celebrate Founders' Day, sisters from 22 chapters
reviewing the 2023-24 calendar.
of initiation learned from a local domestic violence
organization, donated $1,000 to the organization and
celebrated membership milestones!
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79
2/3
AXO CONNECTION
JAX
Cyclones
verywhere
STATE
ALUMNI
9
11
FALL CREEK
3
10
12
9 BETA PI (WASHINGTON COLLEGE) ALUMNA
11 DELTA NU (IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY)
ALUMNAE
Patricia Darby (left, Alpha Mu, Indiana University),
wearing her 50-year pin, presented Barbara Hill (Beta Pi)
Sisters of the 70s held their 14th reunion at the YMCA
with her 75-year pin during a special ceremony. Barbara
of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colorado. They enjoyed
was also given a bouquet of red carnations and enjoyed
hiking, horseback riding, a tour of the Stanley Hotel and
a special luncheon with Sigma Tau Sigma (Central
all-around outdoor fun.
Massachusetts) chapter sisters and friends!
12 UPSILON (MILLIKIN UNIVERSITY)
10 ALPHA BETA (PURDUE UNIVERSITY)
ALUMNAE
ALUMNAE
Sisters from 1989-92 spent a long weekend in Gulfport,
Sisters gathered for a fun-filled reunion in Austin, Texas.
Florida reconnecting after not seeing each other for 30
years!
80 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
13
15
MISSISSIPPI
STATE
A
14
16
13 ALPHA BETA (PURDUE UNIVERSITY)
15 BETA PHI (BOWLING GREEN STATE
ALUMNAE
UNIVERSITY) ALUMNAE
To celebrate 60 years of sisterhood, eight women traveled Sisters from the graduating class of 1983 celebrated their
to West Palm Beach, Florida for a reunion.
40th reunion at homecoming.
14 DELTA KAPPA (SAM HOUSTON STATE
16 EPSILON UPSILON (MISSISSIPPI STATE
UNIVERSITY) ALUMNAE
UNIVERSITY) ALUMNAE
These women have been sisters and friends for more
Sisters met up in Starkville for a weekend of reminiscing
than 30 years and enjoyed a trip to Destin, Florida this
and fun, including exploring campus together.
summer.
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81
AXO CONNECTION
17
19
AXQ
18
20
17 ALPHA PSI (UCLA) ALUMNAE
19 RHO (UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON)
ALUMNAE
Since their graduation from UCLA, sisters have enjoyed
reunions, with fun traditions like a welcome party and
The Rho new member class of 1983 (pictured) organized
a competitive white elephant gift exchange. This year's
a 40th reunion last June, and to make the celebration
gathering was in Lake Arrowhead, California. Writes
even better, they invited the new member classes of
Pamela Richman, "Our sisterhood has lasted 41 years,
1982, 1984 and 1985. All these classes overlapped living
and while the faces are not always the same, we are
in the chapter house together! While most still live
always embracing to seek new heights!"
around the Pacific Northwest, others traveled from as far
away as Florida. It was a great afternoon of reconnecting,
18 ZETA OMEGA (WESTERN CAROLINA
sharing stories and much laughter.
UNIVERSITY) ALUMNAE
20 GAMMA LAMBDA (KENT STATE
These alumnae have a lot in common: they are all Zeta
UNIVERSITY) ALUMNAE
Omega initiates and members of Lambda Upsilon
Lambda (Asheville, North Carolina) alumnae chapter!
Gamma Lambda sisters gathered for their 10th biennial
reunion on a five-day Road Scholar adventure in
Savannah, Georgia. Plans are already in the works for the
next two reunions in Ohio and Florida!
82 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
CONGRATULATIONS TO THESE 10
COLLEGIATE CHAPTERS WITH THE TOP
AVERAGE SERVICE HOURS PER MEMBER!
RESULTS ARE BASED ON REPORTED
THE
ADVENTURES
PHILANTHROPY AND COMMUNITY
SERVICE HOURS.
Alpha Eta
Theta Lambda
Phi
Sigma
Delta Nu
Alpha Chi
Gamma Zeta
Epsilon Tau
Iota Phi
m
Gamma Epsilon
1
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE COLLEGIATE
CHAPTERS THAT EARNED A CHAPTER
AVERAGE GPA AT OR ABOVE 3.5. A
*
DENOTES THOSE THAT RECEIVED A 3.5
AVERAGE MULTIPLE TERMS.
Delta
Delta Mu
Epsilon
Epsilon Zeta
Eta
Epsilon Phi
Lambda*
Epsilon Chi
Rho
Zeta Omicron*
2
Upsilon
Zeta Rho*
Alpha Mu
Zeta Sigma
Alpha Upsilon*
Zeta Upsilon
Alpha Chi*
Zeta Phi
ACCOLADES
Alpha Psi
Theta Lambda
Beta Delta
Theta Upsilon
Beta Eta*
Theta Omega
1 ALPHA MU (INDIANA UNIVERSITY) ALUMNA
Beta Omicron
Iota Lambda
Elizabeth Retter published the book series The Adventures
Beta Sigma*
Iota Nu
of Easton the Rescue Pet to shine a light on the importance of
Beta Phi*
Iota Rho
rescuing animals. Elizabeth recently retired from teaching
Beta Chi
Iota Sigma
and says, "Alpha Chi has always encouraged women to be
Gamma Zeta
Iota Psi
trailblazers, and I attribute that thought process to inspiring
Gamma Theta*
Iota Omega*
me to start this new chapter in my life."
Gamma Iota*
Kappa Tau
Gamma Tau*
Kappa Phi
Delta Epsilon
2 ZETA OMICRON (VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY)
ALUMNA
Drawing on her 20+ years as a mental health professional
and her own journey, Amanda Wallingsford published her
self-development book, Embody Your Worth: Essential Strategies
to Live Confidently and Create Your Dream Life.
IN MEMORIAM
In Memoriam
Theta (University of Michigan)
Betty Roberts Shaw, 1943, April 2019
Mary Benedict Bickley, 1905, December 1978
Norma Robinette Sticksel, 1942, December
Lucie Fink Felton, 1946, August 2016
2014
Reported to headquarters between August 1 and
Charlotte Crane Sakar, 1949, April 2015
Rebecca Deahl Wrigley, 1965, August 2023
October 31, 2023
Name, Initiation Year, Month and Year of Death
lota (University of Illinois at Urbana-
Tau (Brenau University)
Champaign)
Lucile Bean Smith, 1912, October 1987
Alpha (DePauw University)
Bessie Byers Davisson, 1906, September 1970
Maude Bass Smith, 1912, September 1984
Diana Root Braverman, 1949, January 2008
Diane Freeto Harmon, 1954, August 2023
Mary Kennedy Thurin, 1948, September 2023
Judith Mary Clark, 1949, May 2003
Patricia Allen Lannon, 1958, September 2023
Susan Shepherd Herron, 1949, March 2021
Jeannette Patterson Slothower, 1919, June
Upsilon (Millikin University)
Joan Muzzy Nagle, 1949, August 2016
1987
Helen Brown Beck, 1921, December 1998
Lois Purcell Poe, 1919, November 1989
Jane Ingles Truitt, 1943, May 2010
Gillian Beginski, 2020, August 2023
Barbara Peters Schultz, 1949, December 2007
Marian Pease Hess, 1926, November 2003
Jeannine Peaster Steinmetz, 1949, November
Kappa (University of Wisconsin-Madison)
Patricia Duncan Shelato, 1949, November
2014
Mary Ann Terwilliger Anderson, 1968, August
2012
2023
Jo Faulkner Sutton, 1949, January 2004
Beta (Albion College)
Ruth Thompson Curtiss, 1937, June 2015
Janet Keeler Williams, 1951, August 2023
Marilyn Vivier Bacon, 1949, November 2017
Shirley Schanen Gruen, 1942, December 2020
Millie Fox Clifford, 1909, August 1983
Mary Chynoweth Rhyme, 1942, August 2012
Phi (University of Kansas)
Mabel R Collins, 1893, March 1938
Margaret Horalek DeBord, 1950, October
Dorothy Ritchie Herzberg, 1949, December
Lambda (Syracuse University)
2021
2008
Eleanor Brettle Kirsch, 1946, December 2014
Patsy Davis Keough, 1949, May 2000
Audrey Grieves Johnson, 1949, August 2000
Helen Heid Platner, 1940, December 2019
Barbara Swallow-Hruza, 1951, August 2023
Glenna Schantz Mills, 1893, July 1974
June Maune Teasdale, 1955, May 2022
Charlotte Northrup Wochholz, 1918, June
Mu (Simpson College)
1995
Evaline Whaley Calhoun, 1943, August 2023
Chi (Oregon State University)
Katherine Buxton Devine, 1948, August 2023
Mildred Crout Cole, 1915, April 1989
Gamma (Northwestern University)
Carol Conway Grafton, 1949, June 2015
Betty Carmichael Dennis, 1949, September
Nu (University of Colorado Boulder)
Carolyn Kach Mauchley, 1949, September
2022
Margaret Grider Johnson, 1957, July 2023
2021
Peggy Kendall Forrey, 1949, October 2015
Dorothy Jacobson Rice, 1953, September 2023
Priscilla Green McCafferty, 1949, October
Judith Miskell Gossett, 1956, August 2023
2009
Ruth Evelyn Kelly, 1949, November 2014
Xi (University of Nebraska - Lincoln)
Helen Kelleher Pieser, 1954, December 2022
Constance Bauer Krumwiede, 1949, February
Beulah Bell Haggart, 1910, February 1986
Joyce Ohlsen Quigley, 1951, October 2022
2023
Beverly Gable Walker, 1947, July 2023
Mary Powell Scholz, 1949, October 1970
Patricia Peterson Lloyd, 1949, September 2010
Shirley Isaac Smith, 1949, April 1988
Barbara Westphal Maurer, 1954, May 2016
Omicron (Baker University)
Sharon Lenz Nix, 1965, April 2023
Lanell McCann Pruett, 1966, September 2023
Psi (The University of Oklahoma)
Mary Devatz Tilly, 1946, July 2016
Margaret Elizabeth Smith, 1918, May 1992
Joanne Phillips Baxter, 1956, October 2022
Lorita Freeborn Stilley, 1981, May 2023
Frances A. Deen, 1951, October 2023
Epsilon (University of Southern California)
Marjorie Peterson Downing, 1952, October
Louise White Corson, 1906, December 1977
Pi (University of California, Berkeley)
2023
Lorna Calkins Homrighausen, 1916, January
Charlotte Bunke Gould 1949 December 2017
Linda Kaszubowski Moore, 1963, April 2023
1990
Eugenia Mary McCabe 1912 April 1988
Marjorie Hitzler Pitkin, 1919, May 1992
Margaret Stutzman Reeve 1949 July 2022
Omega (Washington State University)
Harriet Monfort Sperry, 1916, August 1984
Carol Wenzel Graybill, 1945, October 2023
Ruth Arnold True, 1911, November 1979
Rho (University of Washington)
Gertrude Stephens Hammatt, 1916, August
Drusilla Petersen Wright, 1946, April 2008
Jean Belcher Cahill, 1932, December 2008
1990
Lynn Duval Demeerleer, 1965, June 2022
Nadia Abdelwahab Kassa, 2011, August 2023
Zeta (New England Conservatory)
Carol Hansen Eaton, 1954, August 2023
Marjorie White Sands, 1941, July 2023
Helen C Collins, 1897, December 1949
Pauline Dean Hidden, 1932, June 1997
Genevieve Clark Taylor, 1919, September 1983
Marian Skinner King, 1917, January 1985
Janet Swanson Tehan, 1949, July 2021
Sandra Woodard Wick, 1957, August 2023
Nelle Cutler Moody, 1908, January 1981
Florence Barbiers Morris, 1921, March 1989
Sigma (University of Iowa)
Alpha Beta (Purdue University)
Gertrude Shaw Spencer, 1915, January 1985
Carolyn Birch Buckner, 1960, May 2019
Joyce Arnold Bol, 1949, July 2020
Margaret Meister Lillick, 1945, July 2020
Phyllis Lady Chambers, 1949, September 2019
Evelyn Afflerbaugh Lowe, 1942, June 2012
Mary Winchester Finfrock, 1949, May 2020
84 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
Mary Ballard Keller, 1938, May 2009
Frances Worrell Becherer, 1935, February 2007
Patricia McCord Villas, 1957, October 2023
Doris Abel Lawlis, 1939, December 2021
Elizabeth Hughes Bennett, 1936, January 2012
Mary Elizabeth Walsh, 1933, November 2004
Mary Switzer McEowen, 1940, May 2021
Helen Nelson Botkin, 1938, January 2004
Kathryn Herle Waynick, 1936, September
Corinne Farmer Pardew, 1949, December 2011
Jean Butler Clark, 1935, March 2008
2015
Faith Wayne Pearson, 1940, January 2019
Delight Southern Coulter, 1932, December
Juliarose Stimson Weaver, 1935, September
Betty Lynch Roberts, 1945, December 2021
1997
1989
Elinor Owens Sutton, 1949, February 2013
Jane Detamore Cummins, 1931, December
Zetta Franklin Weaver, 1946, December 2004
Nancy Patterson Wallace, 1949, October 2021
1981
Vera Morris West, 1935, May 2014
Virginia Harrison Cunningham, 1936, April
Lucille Hurd Wilson, 1928, December 1994
Alpha Gamma (The University of New
1992
Susan Townsley Wiseman, 1944, September
Mexico)
Doris Cook Deuel, 1934, August 1998
2016
Betty Bourbonia Davis, 1950, October 2023
Virginia Biery Doersam, 1937, January 2020
Marilyn Bebber Sheppard, 1954, July 2023
Louise Emerson, 1926, July 1965
Alpha Nu (University of Missouri)
June Townsley Fink, 1935, June 2004
Mary Frow Harris, 1944, May 2015
Alpha Delta (University of Cincinnati)
Jane Worland Franceshini, 1934, July 1998
Natalie Jamison Mitchell, 1945, February 2023
Barbara Carson Gribble, 1952, September
2023
Alpha Epsilon (University of Pennsylvania)
Thelma Shinkle Hamilton, 1938, April 2002
Marilyn Ferris Simpson, 1946, September
Julia Peckinpaugh Henderson, 1937, August
IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY
2023
2014
Laura Bee Spilka, 1919, September 1992
Patricia Odonnell Henderson, 1939, May 2001
OF EVERY ALPHA CHI
Sara Fischer Swanson, 1953, September 2023
Helen Rinker Hensley, 1926, December 1995
OMEGA TO SEE THAT THE
Julia Harting Keelin, 1937, November 2012
Alpha Zeta (Washington University in St.
Elizabeth Dorner Keown, 1933, November
LYRE BADGE SHE WEARS IS
Louis)
2008
PROTECTED AND NEVER
Ally Rowe Baker, 1949, August 2018
Rosemary Fry Kigin, 1940, December 2021
Dona Bergfeld Grothaus, 1961, June 2018
Betty Mikel Klinger, 1957, August 2023
IN THE POSSESSION
Victoria Romero Kernell, 1961, August 2023
Margaret Kriegbaum Lacey, 1938, September
Sandra Acklin Keymer, 1961, May 2023
2016
OF A NONMEMBER.
Armida Heslep Lindsey, 1959, September 2023
Virginia Stevens Lahey, 1939, December 2019
BADGES OF MEMBERS
Elfriede Uthoff Miller, 1920, August 1985
Mary Russell Larmore, 1937, June 2009
Albertine Parrent Rupp, 1942, July 2019
M Evelyn Ham Louck, 1933, May 2002
WHO HAVE PASSED MAY
Viola Coyle Squires, 1941, May 2012
Estelle W Lynch, 1925, October 1999
BE BEQUEATHED TO
Dorothy Rinne Martin, 1936, May 2006
Alpha Eta (University of Mount Union)
Betty Smith McLemore, 1936, October 2005
ANOTHER ALPHA CHI
Elizabeth West Davidson, 1961, March 2023
Helen Lowe Mellencamp, 1935, November
OMEGA OR RETURNED
Ruth Myers Swift, 1944, October 2023
2010
Mary Bard Merchant, 1948, August 2023
TO HEADQUARTERS. A
Alpha Theta (Drake University)
Marjorie Niles Meyers, 1939, April 2017
Grace Louise Mitchum, 1923, April 1986
BADGE SHOULD NEVER BE
Lela Lingenfelter Livingston, 1921, November
1985
Imogene Sharpnack Morgeson, 1937, October
SOLD BY ANY MEANS. FOR
Ruth Bell Sullivan, 1921, August 1986
2018
Wilda Augustine Warstell, 1921, October 1977
Virginia Cole Peterson, 1938, April 1996
FURTHER INFORMATION,
Katherine Jacklin Wright, 1921, February 1979
Nancy Hooker Pontius, 1944, February 2003
PLEASE CONTACT
Dorothy Durbin Putman, 1937, March 2008
Alpha lota (University of Vermont)
Rachel Hargrave Sawyer, 1934, November
HEADQUARTERS AT
Vivian Waterman Howland, 1921, April 1979
2001
317-579-5050.
Betty Ditzler Seagrave, 1938, November 1988
Alpha Kappa (University of Oregon)
Joan Doughty Seal, 1961, October 2022
Joyce Clute Voss, 1963, November 2022
Mary Ann Ferguson Seeber, 1949, March 2019
Susan Ravizza Winslow,1955, August 2023
Dorothy Punsky Shadel, 1938, July 2001
Edwina Elizabeth Shroll, 1935, December
Alpha Lambda (University of Minnesota)
2010
AXI
Margaret Sweetser Hagerty, 1949, April 2017
Lyndal Reed Simon, 1954, September 2023
Mary Leaf Lammers, 1956, July 2023
Emmy Cavanaugh Smith, 1941, January 2011
Olive Lesh Smith, 1931, November 1999
Alpha Mu (Indiana University)
Sally Bollenbacher Swain, 1939, December
Louise Wellington Allyn, 1924, August 1993
2006
IN MEMORIAM
Alpha Omicron (The Ohio State University)
Beta Epsilon (Michigan State University)
Shirley Nieman Fischer, 1948, August 2023
Donna Towne Gilboa, 1953, April 2023
Jane Kitchen Broome, 1944, December 2011
Margaret McClughen Gieser, 1955, August
Mary Thompson Mercer, 1953, August 2023
Lorna Ball Dunn, 1941, June 2016
2023
Eileen Fulton Watson, 1949, August 2013
Carol Reihmer Duvall, 1944, July 2023
Dorothy Lamont Fehr, 1943, February 2015
Beta Phi (Bowling Green State University)
Alpha Rho (University of Idaho)
Patricia Reddy Ferguson, 1940, November
Ruth Wales Vanwormer, 1944, August 2023
Norma Yount Piper, 1925, April 1994
2018
Anna Schrom Taylor, 1950, July 2022
Carol Schier Goodale, 1943, October 2011
Beta Chi (Willamette University)
Aileene Zickgraf Izzo, 1940, July 2007
Aldeane Louise Adams, 1949, July 2020
Alpha Sigma (Ohio Wesleyan University)
Jeanne Charlton Jacobs, 1941, March 2010
Margaret Edgerton, 1961, December 2021
Geraldine Harsen Laetz, 1941, January 2017
Beta Psi (Louisiana Tech University)
Mary Sue Lang, 1954, May 2019
Verna Carstens Lovejoy, 1942, January 2002
Mildred Nickey Anderson, 1949, August 2019
Beulah Swinney Swenumson, 1945,
Eugenia Libby Marshall, 1945, November
Burnelle Wall Brantley, 1949, November 2015
September 2023
2016
Mary Courtney Brymer, 1944, May 2012
Rachael Houck McCormick, 1945, March 2012
Katherine Waltz Carter, 1949, February 2002
Alpha Upsilon (The University of Alabama)
Donna Eckstrom Rossiter, 1944, December
Amanda Marie Coburn, 2005, February 2022
Marion Skinner Almon, 1955, October 2023
2014
Betty Moore Fleming, 1949, April 2016
Anita Ross Barnett, 1949, July 2019
Kathleen Roosa Treanor, 1944, September
Susan Segers Griffith, 1949, June 2016
Mia Gray Grey, 1949, February 2011
2013
Mildred White Hobbs, 1949, September 2014
Charlene Allen Jennings, 1949, January 2019
Susan Moore Tull, 1943, April 2018
Betty White Maddry, 1949, July 2020
Mildred Atkinson Shearer, 1949, August 2013
Mary Herbert Turner, 1962, May 2023
Carol Williamson Riddle, 1949, October 2013
Mallory Bolen Whitaker, 1977, September
Juanita Fox Watterberg, 1939, January 2019
Lanelle Winham Strickland, 1949, December
2023
Margaret Gardner Wilson, 1936, July 2011
2018
Joy Furcron Whittaker, 1949, January 2023
Helen Hootman Wyns, 1940, June 2014
Barbara Ford Taylor, 1949, August 1987
Doris Penny Worley, 1949, December 1997
Alpha Phi (The University of Texas at
Beta Zeta (Whitman College)
Austin)
Mary Lou Cadwell, 1948, June 2023
Gamma Delta (University of Denver)
Carolyn Taylor Cochrum, 1956, August 2023
Carmen Greenstreet Hagman, 1947, August
Dorothy Brown Benedict, 1949, May 2020
Katie Wassberg Guiou, 1993, July 2023
2023
Marcia Hamilton Korstvedt, 1948, September
Betty Askew Howell, 1959, August 2023
2021
Judith G Latimer, 1954, June 2023
Beta Eta (Florida State University)
Callie Schaefer Meyer Barnett, 1956, June
Vicki Susan Challancin, 1968, July 2023
Gamma Epsilon (Oklahoma State
2023
Katherine Morrow McElvy, 1951, August 2023
University)
Gloria Wiginton Murray, 1949, November
Mary Myles Rogers, 1950, May 2023
1994
Beta Theta (Lawrence University)
Betty Landis Blackwell, 1940, November 2007
Gamma Eta (San Jose State University)
Alpha Chi (Butler University)
Jean Paulison Stritt, 1949, December 2013
Norma Bettencourt Desalles, 1949, December
Martha Baker Bayless, 1941, July 2005
2014
Ladyann Halpin Loudenback, 1949, October
Beta Kappa (University of Wyoming)
Leone Arbios Laraway, 1949, December 2009
2019
Beverly Ann Lockhart, 1950, July 2023
Jean Chauncey Metzger, 1942, January 2017
Gamma Theta (University of Maryland)
Helen Strong Mills, 1943, December 2016
Beta Lambda (University of Arizona)
Patricia Wynne Barnes,1949, September 2023
Barbara Vestal Sparks, 1949, February 2015
Amelia Hofstetter McLaughlin, 1949, March
Phyllis Elaine Cromwell,1948, December 1989
Louise Bicknell Wilson, 1938, December 2013
2016
Maraine Wilson Pound, 1949, May 2009
Gamma lota (University of Florida)
Alpha Omega (Birmingham-Southern
Margaret Orris Thoennes, 1949, April 2019
Jane Ownbey Blair, 1951, July 2023
College)
Jeanne Eaton Zern, 1949, February 2016
Marilyn Paddock Blanch, 1955, June 2022
Mary Deweese Mory, 1973, October 2023
Sarah Gill Giddings, 1949, October 2021
Beta Mu (Pennsylvania State University)
Helen Watt Stafford, 1949, November 1996
Beta Gamma (Louisiana State University)
Claudia Bodes Doolittle, 1935, August 2023
Helen Lee Arnold, 1939, October 2016
Gamma Lambda (Kent State University)
Marguerite Flint Fogleman, 1944, March 2020
Beta Rho (American University)
Lillian Pollack Cawley, 1954, September 2023
Sallye Jean Toniette, 1949, August 2015
Shirley Newbaker McCracken, 1949, April
2019
Gamma Mu (Ball State University)
Beta Delta (College of William & Mary)
Carolyn Jeannette Blitz, 1971, May 2023
Cecil Waddell Cunningham, 1943, August
Beta Tau (Miami University)
Susan Irey Reno, 1964, October 2023
2023
Peggy Kesling Bachman, 1943, January 2020
F. Jean Duvall, 1942, December 2012
86 ALPHA CHI OMEGA
Gamma Omicron (Marshall University)
Jennifer Lynn Readler, 1992, July 2023
Joanna Tabit, 1980, September 2023
#AlphaChiOmega
Gamma Pi (University of Tampa)
With Alpha Chi Omegas all over the
Jayne Anderson Smith, 1954, September 2023
world, social media is a great way
OMICRON PHI OMICRON
to stay connected or get to know
@AXO_ASU_ALUMS
Gamma Rho (Texas Tech University)
chapters other than your own!
Zella Byrd Birdwell, 1956, August 2023
Gamma Phi (Lamar University)
ALPHA PHI
Dorothy Tudor Morrison Cogswell, 1957,
@TEXASAXO
December 2021
Delta lota (Emory University)
Gwendolyn Sue Warren, 1959, September 2023
The night @asu_axo was born!
Celebrating the 42nd anniversary
of our first ever Bid Day! Tag a
Delta Kappa (Sam Houston State University)
founder to thank them! 9/25/1981
Carol Owens Shaw, 1971, August 2023
#ASU #ZetaPi #AlphaChiOmega
#GoDevils #SunDevilSisters
Delta Mu (University of Massachusetts)
Suzanne Lacroix Bosco, 1961, September 2023
Maryellen Cicchetti Gray, 1961, March 2022
Janet Souza Pineault, 1961, October 2022
ALPHA ETA
So lucky we got to spend this past
Delta Nu (Iowa State University)
weekend celebrating some of the
@AXO.UMU
Janice Casey Larsen, 1973, June 2015
women that make Alpha Chi feel
like home! Happy Senior Day!
Delta Xi (Denison University)
#LITB #AlphaChiOmega
Constance Kay Barsky, 1963, August 2023
Delta Psi (University of California, Santa
Barbara)
ALPHA PSI
Sandra Helm Morris, 1965, October 2023
@AXOUCLA
Epsilon Zeta (Auburn University)
Grace Newman Polidoro, 1967, March 2020
HAPPY PREFERENCE ROUND
Epsilon Mu (Northern Illinois University)
As we wrap up our last day of
Phyllis Lynn Pederson, 1971, June 2022
recruitment, we are forever
grateful to have showed you
Epsilon Nu (Boise State University)
what makes our sisterhood like
Frances Elizabeth May, 2011, August 2023
no other. #AlphaChiOmega
#Sisterhood
Epsilon Chi (University of North Carolina at
Chapel Hill)
Martha McClure Wilson, 1977, March 2015
Just Alpha Chi girls in an
Alpha Chi world
Zeta Sigma (Missouri State University)
#AlphaChiOmega#BarbieGir
Terry Kidd Dillon, 1983, September 2023
#UCLAPanhellenic
FOLLOW US ON
Mary Ellen Shimmens, 1987, October 2023
SOCIAL MEDIA
Zeta Tau (Villanova University)
Amy Hilseberg Clark, 1999, September 2017
@AlphaChiOmegaHQ
Life Loyal Roll
Life Loyal Roll
Join the Life Loyal Roll!
WE HOPE YOU'RE ENJOYING THE DIGITAL VERSION OF
THE LYRE!
We also know there's something special about receiving a magazine in print and flipping through
the pages to read the stories of our sisterhood.
Alumnae members who make cumulative gifts of $299 or more to the Alpha Chi Omega
Foundation reach the Life Loyal Roll and receive the printed version of The Lyre four times a year
as part of the donor communications plan.
VISIT THE LIFE LOYAL ROLL PAGE ON THE ALPHA CHI
OMEGA WEBSITE FOR DETAILS!
LEARN MORE:
WWW.ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG/LIFELOYALROLL
CALL US:
317-579-5050, EXT. 0290
EMAIL US:
FOUNDATION@ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG
GIVE NOW:
GIVE.ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG/LIFELOYAL
SEE YOUR CURRENT GIVING TOTAL:
LOG INTO MY.ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG AND CLICK THE
"FOUNDATION" TAB.
Life Lorgal Roll
Life Loyal Roll
The Impact of Your Gifts
When you join the Life Loyal Roll, you'll support
the Foundation's mission to enhance the lifetime
experiences of our members - and dream big
AXQ
about the future of Fraternity programming.
Through your gifts at the Life Loyal Roll level,
you'll make a lasting impact on the future of
Alpha Chi Omega and in the lives of our sisters.
Transformational programs and experiences that
make up the Real. Strong. Women. Experience
help our members gain life skills like confidence
and leadership ability, self-awareness and
interpersonal relationship skills, and comfort
with vulnerability and bridging difficult topics.
Only with support from donors will Alpha Chi
Omega continue to:
Promote mental well-being for our sisters
through programs that facilitate authentic
conversations about
mental health
Empower our members to build healthy relationships through
programming like Let's Talk Love while increasing awareness of
domestic violence
Create communities of support where sisters encourage sisters
to discover their most genuine selves through the Real. Strong.
Women. Experience
THANK YOU FOR CONSIDERIN G A
GIFT TO THE FOUNDATION AT THE
LIFE LOYAL ROLL LEVEL!
Alpha Chi Omega Fraternity
ORGANIZATION
U.S. Postage
5635 Castle Creek Parkway North Drive
PAID
Indianapolis IN 46250-4304
Indianapolis, IN
Permit N. 1643
alphachiomega.org
Thanks to our many
generous donors who have
helped us reach our $25
million goal, but we are not
done yet!
Our new campaign
goal:
$30 million
To help us reach our goal and
Common Bond
make an uncommon impact,
Uncommon Impact.
scan the QR code!
A CAMPAIGN TO EMPOWER REAL, STRONG WOMEN
foundation@alphachiomega.org
Learn more about Common
317-579-5050, ext. 290
Bond. Uncommon Impact.
AXOuncommonora