THE THE CAREERS ISSUE DETAILS OF THE IMPROVED RECRUITMENT RECOMMENDATION FORM CAREER TRANSITIONS AT ALL STAGES ALMA HERNANDEZ A REAL. STRONG. WOMAN. OF DISTINCTION SUMMER 2018 Volume 120 : Issue 4 alphachiomega.org 2 3 D / / 4 D 3 4 5 5 7 6 D 7 8 riddles 10 11 10 12 A Crossword by Susan Perkins, National Alumnae Program Director Designed to reap rewards for Rush Week DOWN ACROSS 1. Rush Information Blanks (abbreviation) 1. Title of future initiate 2. Performance given at rush parties for rushees' benefit 2. This high school age girl should be considered a pro- spective rushee if she is college-bound 3. Official word for our Lyre pin 3. A tradition of each chapter and of the fraternity as a 4. Number of rushees that may be pledged during formal whole Rush Week, usually determined by collegiate Panhel- 4. Rushee who's grandmother, mother, or sister is an lenic AXO 5. Office from which Rush Information Blanks may be 5. Women who are responsible for providing informa- obtained (abbreviation) tion to each chapter about prospective members 6. Title of group of alumnae who work with chapter in an advisory capacity (abbreviation) 6. Group that has the final responsibility for choosing new members of AXO 7. Name of period during which independent women have the opportunity to get to know sorority women 7. This should be included with a RIB, if possible 8. Color of AXO Rush Information Blank, Form 62 8. The season when information on rushees for the fol- lowing fall should be obtained 9. One area of clothing where the badge may be worn 9. Source for Rush Information Blanks and addresses of 10. What all collegiates need after Rush Collegiate Rush Chairmen to whom they may be sent 11. In some areas a Rush Information prepares and 10. Month in which AXO was founded (abbreviation) submits Rush Information Blanks Estimated time for completion: 12 minutes Estimated time to get ready for rush: 4 months 12. If you know a prospective rushee, show your Panhel- lenic spirit and encourage her to "think _" after Answers to Rush Riddles on back cover you have sent in her RIB The Lyre/Spring 1979 25 This crossword puzzle appeared in the spring 1979 Lyre to get readers up to speed on the vocabulary. While much of the terminology has changed (like "rush" to "recruitment"), the need to be knowledgeable about the process persists. See page 50 for details of the new and improved recruitment recommendation form and page 69 for the answers to the crossword. contents Summer 2018 Volume 120 : Issue 4 The Careers Issue Real. Strong. Woman. Alma Hernandez BA (University of Arizona) A Real. Strong. Woman. of Distinction FEATURES 10 Chapter Consultants Meet the 2018-19 team! 28 Life After Graduation Stay connected to Alpha Chi Omega 32 Career Transitions Sisters explain how to navigate new careers at all stages of life The Lyre Il alphachiomega.org 1 Table of Contents Editor's Note Recently I spoke at a young alumni panel at my alma mater, where a prospective student asked us what aspects from our collegiate years had the greatest impact on our current careers. As others pointed out their seminars, study abroad experiences and internships (all of which helped guide my path, too), I laughed and answered, "I joined Alpha Chi Omega. I am an Alpha Chi Omega. And I work for Alpha Chi Omega." Joking aside, I am certain my Real. Strong. Woman. Experience that began in college grew me into the editor who writes to you today. From the programs that taught me confidence in myself, to the event planning skills I gained from coordinating initiation, to the conversation skills - and the lesson of how to give a strong handshake - I cultivated from recruitment, my time at the Alpha Chi chapter propelled me into adulthood. And it was during my alumnae involvement with Alpha Chi Omega as a volunteer that I learned of this job opening. Each sister's experience with Alpha Chi Omega is both similar and different, and that mix creates a woman ready to take on the world in whatever career path she chooses. I hope you enjoy reading about just a few of them in this issue. Lauren Stark, Editor AX (Butler University) In Every Issue On Campus 48 Accomplished AXQ Alumnae Connect 3 Contributors 24 Housing 50 Fraternity Business 59 Collegiate Notes 4 Letters to the Editor 26 Collegiate Corner 53 Volunteer Spotlight 61 Alumnae Notes 6 Corner Office 55 His Side of the 68 Reunions 8 Perspectives Life Story 70 Accolades 10 AXQ News 30 Career Outlook 72 In Memoriam 22 Foundation 46 Archives The following staff members Tim Johnson, CPA Eliza Payne Madeline Plesac contributed articles to this issue: (Phi Delta Theta Fraternity, AX (William Woods AB (Purdue University) Ball State University) University) Associate Director of Allison Foster Senior Financial Controller Assistant Director of Housing TX (Stetson University) Advancement - Stewardship & Advancement Officer Dena Norrod Operations Engagement AZ (Central Michigan University) Assistant Director - Lifetime Engagement 2 Summer 2018 The Lyre Contributors 2/5 Alpha Chi Omega REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. Alpha Chi Omega National Council Members: Angela Costley Harris President BRITTNEY BECK CARA HANNEGAN Jari Askins (AX, BUTLER UNIVERSITY) (OI, BAYLOR UNIVERSITY) Vice President Brittney Beck is a senior associate résumé Cara Hannegan joined the Theta lota Mikelle Holt Brady and LinkedIn profile writer at Illinois- chapter this year and had a little extra Vice President based Vocamotive, where she assists job surprise as part of her initiation - her Jennifer Daurora grandmother's Alpha Chi Omega badge Vice President seekers in attaining their ideal careers. She is also the youngest Nationally Certified that had been waiting at headquarters for Lynne Biggio Herndon Vice President Résumé Writer in the country. Page 30 a family member to wear one day. Page 8 Jill Sabatino Lacy Vice President Editorial Staff: Lauren Stark Editor Jill Richardson Associate Director Marketing and Communications Erin Witt Director - Marketing and Communications LISA YOUNG STIERS ASHLEY HOPKO Amy Colvin Mustafa (EO, INDIANA STATE (N, UNIVERSITY OF Senior Director of Education and Engagement UNIVERSITY) COLORADO BOULDER) Lisa Young Stiers is an Indianapolis-area Ashley Hopko is a Colorado native The Lyre of Alpha Chi Omega freelance writer and proofreader, as well with a sense of adventure and relentless is published quarterly. as a Life Loyal member who loves talking enthusiasm for journalism. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to sisters around the country. Her article She served on the Nu chapter executive to The Lyre of Alpha Chi Omega, about job transitions in this issue stems board as VP intellectual development and 5939 Castle Creek Parkway North Drive, from personal experience - she recently currently serves as personal development Indianapolis, IN 46250-4343. returned to work after taking time off to chair and MyJourney facilitator. She Submission Deadlines: raise her children. Page 32 studies political science and journalism Fall issue July 1 with an emphasis in global media. This Winter issue - October 1 summer, she will be working for the Spring issue January 1 News21 Fellowship, doing an investigative Summer issue April 1 journalism project on the rise of hate Contact Information: crime in America. Page 26 Alpha Chi Omega Fraternity, Inc. 5939 Castle Creek Parkway North Drive Indianapolis, IN 46250-4343 Phone: 317.579.5050 alphachiomega.org ANNA RITCHIE editor@alphachiomega.org (P, UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS) Our Mission: Alpha Chi Omega is a national women's A former chapter consultant, attorney organization that enriches the lives of Anna Ritchie now works as a partner and members through lifetime opportunities for friendship, leadership, learning and service. leader of the employment practice group at Martin Pringle. She is also a recruitment FRATERNITY advisor at Phi chapter. Page 12 COMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATION The Lyre Il alphachiomega.org 3 Where Has Your Lyre Been? E YOUNTS Kristina Farrell Dahlene (TX, Stetson University) Joany Bewley Wills (left, TP, Texas Tech University) and Leslie took her copy of The Lyre to a glacier in Iceland this Luecke Moss (TP) traveled to Yadgiri, India in March for February. village ministry and work with orphans and the local church congregation. The Wills family helped establish Grace Orphanage in the village four years ago. During this trip, the sisters wore sari made for them by a woman in the village. Sasha Williams (left, E, University of Southern California) and her husband visited Epsilon chapter sister Tracie Brewer and her husband in Hawaii, where they live on the Big Island. The Alpha Chi Omegas took their Lyre to the Red Sand Beach on Maui. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK If you would like to share your dislikes, praise and/or suggestions, please email your letters to the editor to editor@alphachiomega.org. Your letters may also be sent via postal mail to Alpha Chi Omega, c/o Lyre editor, 5939 Castle Creek Parkway North Drive, Indianapolis, Indiana 46250. Alpha Chi Omega REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. Rockin' Convention IN STYLE! C. AXO B. A. E. AXQ G. D. X F. H. GOOD J. I. AXQ A. Juliette Watch, #JULIETTE B. Festoon Curved Bar Necklace, #20701 C. Festoon Horizontal Bar Necklace, #20700 D. 22 Diamond Badge, Shown with Plain Double Letters Guard and 3 Dangles (each sold separately) E. Treasured Necklace, #TREASURE F. Belle Bracelet, #BELLE G. Solid Interchangeable Badge Charm, Shown with Vintage Pearl Badge and Snake Chain (each sold separately) H. Sunburst Mini Lyre Ring, Shown in two tone, #7901L I. Chapter President Ring, Shown with Synthetic Garnet, #0453G J. Mini Pearl Bracelet, #6315 hjgreek.com 800.451.3304 HERFF H JONES™ Items may not be shown at actual size. Refer to hjgreek.com FAQs for additional information. 34-4547 (2/2018) Corner Office Whatever We May Say or Believe, National President Angela Costley Harris (AB, Purdue University) Alpha Chi As a private membership culture, the decision to close must be Omega's core organization, Alpha Chi Omega made. values are wisdom, maintains the right and responsibility The sadness I felt delivering the devotion and to discipline members for conduct news of our recent chapter closures achievement, with that violates our core values and our was the most I have felt while serving an unequivocal commitment to dignity and respect as your National President. It is commitment for all. Such actions negatively impact exceedingly difficult to deliver that to respect for the membership experience and decision to a room of distraught and others. These reputation of our more than 230,000 emotional members. In the final organizational values and commitment collegians and alumnae and the more moments of collegiate membership, are reflected in the words of our than five million National Panhellenic our sisters were willing to fight for Ritual, our anti-discrimination Conference sorority members around their Alpha Chi Omega undergraduate policies, our national philanthropy and the world. experience, and listening to their our brand - Real. Strong. Women. When instances of inappropriate advocacy was heartbreaking. It is inconsistent with those values conduct occur, Alpha Chi Omega Regrettably, seeing their passion for a for any Alpha Chi Omega member partners with the college or university positive, empowering, and respectful to participate in an event which where the offending conduct sisterhood and campus community appropriates race, culture or religion happened to hold both individual experience was misplaced in light - whether as a host or attendee. Such members and chapters accountable, of the poor decision-making and participation also violates policies and up to and including immediate loss of conduct that had led us to that point. expectations that our host institutions individual membership and chapter As guests on the campuses of our host have for student organizations. These closure. Some conduct, including institutions, our options are extremely events include, but are not limited hazing, hate crimes, and sexual assault limited once a university decides that to, formals, date parties, weeknight or harassment, may also violate local, taking a break from the Alpha Chi gatherings in off-campus houses, state and federal laws, and may result Omega experience is in the best registered events, unregistered events, in individual proceedings from the interest of the students and university. theme events such as Taco Tuesdays, university and legal authorities. Since our founding in 1885 we TGIFs, philanthropies and big-little We often say that closing a chapter have been bound together with all reveals. is the hardest decision a National Panhellenic women through our It also is contrary to our values to Council member has to make. In shared sorority experience and with organize or participate in any activity situations such as the two we faced this Alpha Chi Omegas from all other that threatens the human dignity, year, when the member conduct is SO campuses through our shared Ritual, safety, health or respect of any person, egregious and SO clearly in violation of values and brand. Each member including hazing, blindfolding, both Alpha Chi Omega and university and each collegiate chapter does not forced alcohol consumption, threats, expectations and when the road to exist nor operate independently of sexual harassment, intimidation or a healthy membership experience one another. In this age of highly embarrassment. is paved with a challenging campus sensationalized news and 24-hour 6 Summer 2018 The Lyre What We Have Done is Our Story We will continue to do everything do. We will continue to do everything we can to educate our collegians and we can to educate our collegians foster continued awareness of the awesome responsibility they have to and foster continued awareness of protect our brand and the sorority experience for every campus where the awesome responsibility they we are fortunate to have an Alpha Chi Omega chapter. have to protect our brand and the This is a time of deep reflection regarding the present and future sorority experience for every campus state of fraternity and sorority life, and many people are asking whether where we are fortunate to have an the experience can survive in its current form. I have long believed Alpha Chi Omega chapter." that true cultural change with regard to risk will come only when students resolve to create a different reality. Maybe, just maybe, we are at that social media, each of us can impact System shutdowns are happening moment. We know that the value of the reputation of others nearly as a direct result of risky behavior on women supporting women is real and instantaneously. Poor behavior by a these campuses, as the community necessary, and I have great confidence few members on one campus impacts culture has become untenable in our real, strong women to be part the reputation of all sorority women for organizations, for campus of the solution on their campuses. and risks the continued existence of administrators, and in some cases, for The National Council is committed to not just Alpha Chi Omega, but the students. As recent media articles have working with our staff and volunteers entire sorority experience, today and accurately noted, national organizations to provide the best possible support in the future. have all the educational programs to our collegiate members as they This has been a very challenging and risk management policies and navigate the realities of their campus year, as multiple campus procedures in place to support a healthy culture and fight for the present and administrations have issued immediate chapter experience; nevertheless, future of the Alpha Chi Omega and suspensions and/or moratoriums on students continue to make risky choices sorority experience. all fraternity and sorority activity. that put themselves and/or their fellow Because whatever we may say or Further, several inter-fraternity and members in harm's way. believe, what we have done is our Panhellenic councils have voluntarily In the current media environment, story. voted to suspend social activities the conduct of our collegiate chapter and new member activities on their members is the heart of our brand, respective campuses in an effort to more than anything the national begin the process of positive change. organization or alumnae can say or The Lyre Il alphachiomega.org 7 Perspectives New Life for an Old Badge Martha Carolan (Hannegan) Hanlon Ever since I was young, I remember Chi Omega chapter on campus. (O, Baker University) served as National seeing all of the Alpha Chi Omega Obviously, as the dedicated member President from 1980-1983. When she memorabilia around my grandmother's and Past National President she was, she passed away in 2010, her badge was house. For the longest time I didn't know knew that had to change, and she helped returned to headquarters - but not for what a lyre was but saw them all around. start the Theta Iota chapter of Alpha Chi long. Her granddaughter, Cara Hannegan, When my grandmother passed away, my Omega [established in April 1985]. accepted a bid to the Theta Iota (Baylor family took a lot of her Alpha Chi things, Getting to be a part of something University) chapter in January 2018, such as tables and coasters, but at the my grandmother helped build is one of at which point Cara's mother contacted time I didn't realize that I would one day the best ways I can honor her memory. headquarters about passing the badge on be a part of this amazing sisterhood. Although she is not here to welcome me at her daughter's initiation. The badge One of the greatest stories I have into the sisterhood, I know that every is now engraved with "MCH-CAH" to learned of my grandmother and time I put on her badge she is with me. represent both real, strong women. Cara Alpha Chi Omega is related to the fact I am forever thankful to Alpha Chi tells The Lyre about the significance of the that without her I would not be able to Omega for giving me the opportunity to badge and her grandmother's legacy. be an Alpha Chi at Baylor University. honor my grandmother by wearing the What I mean by this is that when my badge she wore, which now has both our dad, Martha's youngest son, attended initials engraved on the base. Baylor University, there was no Alpha 8 Summer 2018 Il The Lyre 2 GEICO #MemberDiscount Alpha Chi Omega 1-866-496-3576 geico.com/greek/axo REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. Alpha Chi Omega members could save on car insurance with a special discount from GEICO. Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. GEICO contracts with various membership entities and other organizations, but these entities do not underwrite the offered insurance products. Discount amount varies in some states. One group discount applicable per policy. Coverage is individual. In New York a premium reduction may be available. GEICO may not be involved in a formal relationship with each organization; however, you still may qualify for a special discount based on your membership, employment or affiliation with those organizations. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. © 2017 GEICO AXO News Here Come the Chapter Consultants! We're proud to introduce the real, strong women who will serve as the 2018-19 chapter consultants! While supporting our collegiate chapters through mentoring, officer transitions, calendar planning and more, consultants will also develop professionally and personally to propel themselves on to their future careers. RETURNING FOR ANOTHER YEAR Michelle Critchfield Kellie Greene Kamalea Khan Taylor Tolley o (Baker University) BH (Florida State University) EA (University of Texas - AO (The Ohio State Arlington) University) Michelle spent the 2017-18 Kellie completed her first year academic year as a Region 3 as a resident consultant at the After graduating in 2017 Supporting our chapters in traveling consultant, visiting Zeta lota (Stanford University) with Bachelor of Arts degrees the Northeast, Taylor was sisters throughout the chapter. She holds Bachelor in advertising and public a traveling consultant in Midwest. She holds Bachelor of Arts degrees in psychology relations, Kamalea spent her Region 1 this past year. She of Arts degrees in history and and family and child sciences, first year in the Midwest as a graduated with a Bachelor of psychology. with a certification in Region 3 traveling consultant. Science degree in business developmental disabilities and administration (marketing) a minor in Chinese. with minors in fashion and retail studies and leadership studies. 10 Summer 2018 Il The Lyre AXO News NEW TO THE TEAM Karly Derschmidt Kaitlin Girtin Molly Haeg Molleigh McCann Alex Pear AO (Portland State KA (University of San AA (University of E (University of Southern AK (University of University) Diego) Minnesota) California) Oregon) Karly graduated with Kaitlin holds a Bachelor Molly earned a Bachelor Molleigh graduated Alex has Bachelor of Bachelor of Science of Arts degree in of Science degree in with a Bachelor of Arts Arts degrees in political degrees in psychology environmental studies kinesiology with a degree in communication science and planning, and criminology/criminal with a minor in minor in leadership. and minors in sports public policy and justice. She served as the sociology. Her leadership She served as the media studies and management. She served Delta Omicron chapter experience for the Kappa Alpha Lambda chapter organizational leadership as chapter president president, vice president Lambda chapter includes Panhellenic delegate and and management. She and vice president risk chapter relations and a term as vice president philanthropy committee served the Epsilon management for the standards, and vice philanthropy. leader, plus a term as the chapter as president and Alpha Kappa chapter. president finance. university Panhellenic in leadership roles with Council president. recruitment, continuous recruitment and new member education. Eden Sanders Karly Zrake Kim Romo KII (University of North I (Southern Methodist EK (California State Carolina - Wilmington) Chloe Sekhran University) University - Fullerton) (University of Iowa) Eden earned a Bachelor Alex Tidswell Karly has Bachelor Kim holds a Bachelor of of Science degree in Chloe earned a of Arts degrees in KP (University of North Arts degree in business public health studies and Bachelor of Business anthropology and human Carolina - Charlotte) administration with served on the university Administration degree rights, with a minor in a concentration in Panhellenic council as in marketing (retail Alex graduated with a education. In addition finance. Her leadership vice president operations. management track), a Bachelor of Science and to volunteering as a experience with the For the Kappa Pi chapter, Bachelor of Arts degree served the Kappa Rho collegiate member of Epsilon Kappa chapter she was vice president in dance and a certificate chapter as president, the 2016-18 National includes vice president Ritual and fraternity in event planning. In assistant vice president Nominating Committee chapter relations and appreciation, Greek addition to serving intellectual development, and as a 2016 National standards, vice president Week chair, assistant risk as a 2018 Leadership accreditation chair and Convention page, she finance, recruitment day management and the Academy collegiate Values Day chair. served the lota Sigma chair and MyJourney senior representative on intern, she was Sigma chapter as vice president facilitator, plus leadership CRSB. chapter president, Ritual and fraternity roles with the university vice president chapter appreciation, sisterhood Panhellenic Council. relations and standards, chair, recruitment and assistant vice matching committee president philanthropy. member and Mom's Weekend chair. The Lyre Il alphachiomega.org 11 D AXQ News From Consulting to Court How my job as a chapter consultant launched my career By Anna Ritchie (, University of Kansas) of Kansas), Lou Ann Wilcox (AN, University of Missouri) and Christi Tennyson (AX) taught me how to think big and be bold because we and our chapters are worth it. I am a better attorney and Alpha Chi Omega volunteer because of them. I knew I would be heading to law school after I graduated from the University of Kansas but wanted some additional time to gain skills and make sure I was making a good decision about my future education and career. By saying yes to Alpha Chi Omega, I had a job with more responsibility eing a chapter consultant did not teach than my peers in other post-undergraduate B me how to write a brief or argue a motion employment and gained experience that future legal in court, but I use almost every skill I employers valued. Serving as a consultant gave me learned from consulting on a daily basis a competitive advantage, and I continue to cherish as an attorney. And my experience has been shaped and appreciate those years. by my time working for Alpha Chi Omega. As a partner and leader of the employment practice group at Martin Pringle, most of my work is based on people and relationships. There is no job that teaches you more about people and relationships than being a chapter consultant. As I worked with collegians, advisors and university leaders to advance chapter experiences, my skills and abilities were shaped and enhanced. My deposition technique is influenced heavily by the hundreds of meetings I had with collegiate leaders. Finding a way for these women to trust me, someone they barely knew, has paid off in dividends for the times now when I sit across a table from an opposing party who at first may not be interested in answering my questions. By far the best and longest lasting benefit of my time as a chapter consultant has been the connections I made with Alpha Chi Omegas. A lawyer colleague and running friend was a collegian with whom I worked at Iowa State. Anna Ritchie (second from left on the stairs) with her 2006-07 consultant class Several collegians from my chapters are now regional and national volunteers. I also got to see some of our best Alpha Chi Omega volunteers at work. Women like Judy Schmuck (AX, William Woods University), Julie Wisbrock (Q, University 12 Summer 2018 Il The Lyre FASHION & FUN SUWVERS AXQ 100% SILK SCARE express AXQ style LOVE This richly hued and soft scarf brings together circular energy & with the elemental beauty of loyalty Alpha Chi Omega's signature scarlet red and olive colors. 3 Ways to tieit OB AFFINITY AFFINITY LICENSED PRODUCT IIIIIII Full size: 25" "x72" A BUY NOW AT AXOscarf.com 72" AXO News .... 1766 RUTGERS Alpha Chi Omega Returning to Rutgers University In spring 2019, Alpha Chi Omega will reestablish our Theta Tau chapter at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey. The easiest way to share in our excitement willajunejewelry is to "like" or follow the Theta Tau chapter's pages on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep up with the establishment process and eventually, the new founding members. We'll share those soon on social media! If you know a potential new member beauty even attending Rutgers, tell her about Alpha Chi Omega and the once-in-a-lifetime experience that is founding membership. We are looking NEW 2018 for both upperclass women and incoming COLLECTION freshmen. Please send an email to lroane@ alphachiomega.org to recommend her to the recruitment team, and be sure to include her HANDCRAFTED name and contact information. INDIVIDUALLY MADE Alpha Chi Omega Owned + Operated willajunejewelry.com 14 Summer 2018 Il The Lyre Convention O Amplify Alpha Chi 2018 National Convention 2018 NATIONAL CONVENTION juine 29 FLA july 1, 2018 Austin exas The Lyre Il alphachiomega.org 15 AXO NATIONAL CONVENTION Clothes & Accessories packing checklist Friday, June 29 Welcome Dinner (snappy casual) top/bottom dress cardigan/blazer/jacket undergarments socks/shoes accessories Saturday, June 30 National Chapter Meeting (all-white business casual attire and white or nude shoes), Sisterhood Luncheon (all white OR business casual), Reunion Dinner (snappy casual, be sure to show your alma mater pride) tops/bottoms dresses cardigan/blazer/jacket flesh-toned undergarments socks/shoes accessories Sunday, July 1 National Chapter Meeting and Foundation Luncheon (business casual), Carnation Celebration (semi-formal, a cocktail dress or a long, dressy skirt and top) tops/bottoms dresses cardigan/blazer/jacket undergarments socks/shoes accessories Miscellaneous pajamas yoga mat (for optional wellness activity) Amplify bathing suit Alpha Chi AXO T-shirt 2018 National Convention sunglasses rain coat Convention Tote Electronics tote bag is provided at onsite registration notebook smartphone & charger tissues iPad/tablet & charger business cards laptop & charger pens e-reader & charger hand lotion camera & charger/batteries lip gloss flash drive water bottle mints Miscellaneous Alpha Chi Omega badge Toiletries Life Loyal and milestone pin(s) spending money makeup bag deodorant travel documents toothbrush brush/comb new earbuds and headphones to toothpaste hair products donate to SAFE Alliance floss blow dryer school pride decorations for Reunion Night mouth wash flat iron contact solution curling iron contact case feminine products eyeglasses lotion face wash sunscreen moisturizer band-aids shampoo medicine conditioner body wash Amplify razor Alpha Chi 2018 National Convention Joseph D Convention Education Sessions JUNE 29 1-3 p.m. Local House Corporation Track Session friday 5:15 First-Time Attendee Meet and Greet 6:15 p.m. Thom Singer 8:30 Meetings for chapter advisors, province 9:30 p.m. collegiate chairs, province alumnae chairs and collegiate experience volunteers JUNE 30 JULY 1 seturday sunday 6:15 Wellness Activity: Yoe 6:15 Restore, Energize Balance: 7:15 a.m. Madeline Plesac 7:15 a.m. A Yoga Class for Self Study Rina Deshpande 7-8 a.m. PCC and Chapter Advisor Province Meeting 2-3 p.m. General Session 2:30 3:30 How the World Sees You Dr. Mari Ann Callais p.m Sally Hogshead 3:15 Collegiate Track Session: Panel on Higher Education & the 3:45 iGen: Understanding the Smartphone Generation 4:15 p.m. Fraternity/Sorority Landscape 4:45 p.m. Dr. Jean Twenge Alumnae Chapter Officer and Lifetime Engagement Engaging the New Volunteer Volunteers Track Session Peggy M. Hoffman Local House Corporation Track Session This is the Big Change: The Future of High School Understanding Healthy Financial Relationships, sponsored by Graduates and Implications for Alpha Chi Omega The Allstate Foundation Colleen Falkenstern and members of the Diversity and Inclusion Jennifer Crotty Study Group From Ritual to Reality Our History: Panel and Discussion with Past National Dr. Mari Ann Callais Presidents Past National Presidents, moderated by National President 4:30 Collegiate Track Session: Behind Happy Faces: Mental Angela Costley Harris 5:30 p.m. Health Programming Ross Szabo 5 6 p.m. Becoming Unstoppable Jessica Pettitt Alumnae Chapter Officer and Lifetime Engagement Volunteers Track Session Practical Mindfulness to Sustain (and Enjoy) Success Rina Deshpande Local House Corporation Track Session: MJ Insurance Cindy Stellhorn Preserving the Sorority Experience through Government Relations Amplify Awareness - Domestic Violence & Digital Abuse, Julie Cain Burkhard and Donna Smith Chereck sponsored by Mary Kay Katie Ray-Jones and Kirsten Gappelberg The Journey to an Award of Achievement Dr. Susan S. Fiorito, Toni Marwitz, Valerie Morrison, Judge Amplify Your Alpha Chi Involvement: Lifetime Joanna Tabit Engagement in Fraternity/Sorority Life Jessica Pettitt and Thom Singer Amplify Our Music: Alpha Chi Omega Songs Sing-A-Long The Alpha Chi Omega Convention Choir Convention O Vendors & Sponsors We're excited to have so many vendors on site who will be selling their Alpha Chi Omega products, apparel and services. Make sure to check back in the vendor space each day for different offerings! And a big thanks to our 2018 National Convention sponsors! Olympian Level: HERFF H JONES TM MJ INSURANCE SORORITY DIVISION Scarlet Level: College Chefs Olive Level: 96 Purple My billhighway Chapter Purse. GEICO GOELZER Room PDR findgreek #MemberDiscount Allstate Foundation INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT INTERIORS Pearl Level: CSL Management Greek Yearbook, the official convention photographer Mary Kay, Inc. National Bank of Indianapolis Shelle Design Carnation Level: Bloom Sorority Apparel Computer System Innovations Gabriel Group Additional in-kind sponsorship provided by Sorority Specialties The Lyre Il alphachiomega.org 19 Convention 20 Star Booth 18 By Madeline Plesac (AB, Purdue University), Associate Director of Advancement Stewardship & Engagement When you think of your Alpha Chi How it Works to each member that she will become Omega experience, you remember your With every $10 gift to Star Booth, you the best version of herself. The Real. roommate, your chapter advisor, your make a "star" of a special sister, friend Strong. Women. Experience delivers on big sister. The first woman you met or loved one who has touched your life this promise by providing educational, during recruitment, the alumna who and helped you achieve your dreams. At leadership and service-learning brought snacks to the house during convention, these attendees will receive programs that aren't teachable in a exams, the new member you met on bid a star to wear proudly on their nametag traditional classroom environment. day. These women became your sisters. indicating they've been honored through Your friends. Your inspiration. a gift to the Foundation. Raising the Stakes This year, Star Booth will be back This year, we're bringing back an as we celebrate convention to provide The Impact of Your Gift exciting twist to Star Booth - the decade a fun, simple way for you to share your When you give to Star Booth, your challenge! When you give a star (or two appreciation for these sisters while contribution automatically goes to the or three), your gift will count toward also supporting the Alpha Chi Omega area with the greatest need, meaning your decade of initiation. Foundation and amplifying your impact! you're making an impact right away. Whether you were in college when Alpha Chi Omega makes a promise Neil Armstrong landed on the moon "The Twist" was the early dance craze. The MTV was launched (and actually played music Beatles were heard everywhere. The hippie videos). Commodore introduced the first home movement became prevalent on college computers, and Apple introduced the first Decade campuses. Man took his first step on the moon. Macintosh. Ray Ban sunglasses became big The mod style hit the scene, with geometric after being featured in Risky Business and Top Challenge shapes and patent leather. Gun. The look was big hair, shoulder pads, leg warmers and stirrup pants. 1950s 1960s 1970s 1980s & before Elvis Presley became the rock n' roll hero of youth VCRs and microwaves made their first appearances in everywhere. Lucille Ball made the first pregnancy debut homes around the country. Disco hit peak popularity. Star on television. Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn were style Wars took fans to a galaxy far, far away. Leisure suits, bold icons. Poodle skirts and penny loafers were all the rage. colors and giant sunglasses were popular. 20 Summer 2018 Il The Lyre Convention O "In partnership with the Fraternity, we're investing in programs that empower women to reach their highest potential. With loyal donors like you supporting our members with your gifts to the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation, there is no limit to the heights we can reach together." or when Mark Zuckerberg launched - Chief Development Officer Marsha King Grady Facebook, each decade can make a difference and support the dreams of our (AY, University of Alabama) sisters. Decade standings will be kept up to date on our Star Booth homepage at youareaxogive.alphachiomega.org. We will announce the decade winner on the final day of convention! to create change on campuses, in their we believe "together" is a vital part. We Through the Decades companies and throughout communities are intelligent, empowered women-we Through the decades, our sisterhood around the world. can and will do amazing things. But has provided thousands of women with We know you recognize that doing them together? That is special. opportunities to develop into real, strong reaching this type of potential cannot Visit youareaxogive.alphachiomega.org women-resilient leaders and active be achieved alone. Our motto is to purchase a star for your special sister citizens. These dynamic women go on "Together let us seek the heights," and today! Collegiate Chapters and Headquarters Staff collegiate Collegiate chapters chapters Facebook was launched. Apple revealed the first iPod. The Harry continue to respond Potter books and accompanying movies broke records. Prince to the trends of their William married Kate Middleton. The style was oversized sunglasses, time, but one thing remains the same: wedge flip flops and denim jackets. The Real. Strong. Women. Experience. And headquarters staff continue to stand alongside chapters, providing programming, support and experiences that enrich the collegiate years. 1990s 2000s & after Alumnae Chapters Alumnae chapters bring sisters from all alumnae decades and walks of life together for The "Macarena" came to dance floors. Titanic with Kate Winslet and common goals. They Leonardo DiCaprio hit the big screen. The first web page was launched, support the fight to end domestic violence, and the world was catapulted into the Information Age. Overalls, provide mentorship and cultivate real, Birkenstocks and flannel were the trend. strong women for a lifetime. The Lyre Il alphachiomega.org 21 Foundation Start Simple MAGGIE with Monthly Giving By Madeline Plesac (AB, Purdue University), Associate Director of Advancement - Stewardship & Engagement "As soon as you become an alumna, find a chapter and do what you can to help out," says Maggie Ward (EO, California State University - Sacramento). "Something as small as baking cookies or volunteering your time keeps you connected with our with raft races on the American River sisters. If you can't give financially, then monthly to enable the Foundation to and Chariot Races. give your time. It's a sisterhood for life continue its outstanding work. When so when you can give, give what you can I realized joining Leadership Circle because every dollar makes a difference." How do you think Alpha Chi Omega helped would afford means to better support Ward, an avid marathon runner and you become who you are today? amazing programs such as Leadership philanthropist, lives in Sacramento, Alpha Chi gave me leadership skills Academy, the Global Service Initiative California, with her husband Martin. and self-confidence. My experiences and MyJourney, I knew in my heart I Together, they have two daughters and made me a real, strong woman as wanted to give at that level. It's time for I gained resilience and the mental six grandchildren. Ward began giving on me to give back. I have given my time a monthly basis as a Foundation Partner fortitude to get through hard situations. and energy for SO many years that I am and has since increased her gifts to reach My ability to give back to my community SO thankful to be able to give at this Leadership Circle. and be a part of something SO much Leadership Circle level. bigger than myself are reasons why What are your favorite memories from your I can't imagine my life without our How do you give back locally with your sisterhood. time in the Epsilon Theta chapter? alumnae chapter? Some of my fondest memories at I am SO excited to say that I have What inspires you to give to the Epsilon Theta include performing been appointed the liaison to Saint Foundation? our Rituals at initiation and Hall of John's Shelter in Sacramento. I will be As Gamma Psi Gamma (Sacramento, Commitment, as well as attending helping them next year with Gamma social events and mixers. We had an California) president for the past 10 Psi Gamma's involvement, including off-campus apartment where we would years, I've had the opportunity to attend some fundraising. I will be doing hands- five national conventions. When the study all night for classes, laughing and on work in their shelter, nursery and having fun. I'll never forget Greek Week Foundation Partners program started, restaurant. it seemed like an easy way to give 22 Summer 2018 Il The Lyre Foundation Want to give back like Maggie Ward? It's easy! Tell me about your experience as a marathon runner. Become a Foundation Partner with a monthly gift of $10 or more. As a monthly I became a runner seriously in 2000. donor, you'll play a key and consistent role in helping make a profound difference to our A family friend's son was diagnosed with sisterhood. Plus, monthly giving makes it easier for you to plan and budget your gifts! leukemia at the age of seven. I had been Foundation Partners receive regular updates about the impact of gifts and gain early access a recreational runner for a few years to special giving initiatives such as Day of Giving and Star Booth. but took this as an opportunity to raise money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Join Leadership Circle, a community of our most generous and engaged sisters Society. As luck would have it, I was who invest $1,000 or more each year in unrestricted support to the Alpha Chi Omega trained by one of the best coaches in Foundation. By making a Leadership Circle gift, you join Alpha Chi Omega's philanthropic Northern California, Rich Hanna. I leaders in shaping the future of our Fraternity by helping to underwrite important had such a great experience that after philanthropic, educational and leadership initiatives. Leadership Circle members receive running my first marathon, I decided exclusive opportunities to enjoy invitation-only events with Fraternity and Foundation leaders, it wasn't enough. I wanted to do more! as well as: Over the next several years, I raised Recognition in the Foundation Honor Roll and at convention more than $10,000 for the Leukemia & Exclusive communications throughout the year Lymphoma Society. I have also had the Exclusive charm bracelet for first year of membership opportunity to run in some beautiful Yearly membership charm uniquely designed for Leadership Circle members places including Hawaii and Big Sur. What I enjoy most about it is the feeling Join Leadership Circle with a monthly gift of $83.34 and be recognized in both prestigious of peace and serenity. giving clubs. Visit the Alpha Chi Omega website and click the green DONATE button to join. Questions? Email foundation@alphachiomega.org. The Lyre Il alphachiomega.org 23 D Housing What Happens It's that time of year again - the highly anticipated summer break has arrived for students! While collegiate members are taking summer courses, studying abroad, taking epic to My Facility vacations or working hard at internships and summer jobs, the Alpha Chi Omega experience doesn't stop. With housing being such an integral part of the overall collegiate experience During the for many members, you might be asking the question, "What happens to an Alpha Chi Omega facility during the summer months?" The answer to that question depends on the chapter's Summer? facility classification. We'll walk you through what might happen at your facility during the summer! By Eliza Payne (AX, William Woods University), Assistant Director of Housing Operations National Housing Corporation The National Housing Corporation (NHC) takes full advantage of summertime to capitalize on renovation projects. While some projects can take place throughout the academic year, the summer months are the most ideal time to perform more invasive improvements on NHC properties. The NHC and CSL Management partner together to oversee this process. If a property is not undergoing major renovations, the opportunity for summer tenants can be presented to chapter members. Offering housing for those Alpha Chi Omega students who might be staying on campus to complete summer courses provides those members with a safe, affordable and familiar space to stay, without the hassle of trying to locate alternative housing for a short period of time. Beta Lambda BEFORE AFTER The bathrooms at the Beta Lambda (University of Arizona) chapter facility recently received a makeover from the NHC. 24 Summer 2018 Il The Lyre Local House Corporation A local house corporation, or LHC, is a group of alumnae members who are responsible for the ownership, maintenance and upkeep of a chapter facility. Many LHCs are comprised of alumnae members of that specific chapter, but there are also LHCs with alumnae members from other Alpha Chi Omega chapters as well! Much like the NHC facilities, these properties tend to undergo bigger renovations during the summer months. These updates can be anything from new furniture in a chapter room or new landscaping to prepare for recruitment, all the way up to a remodel of the whole facility. The LHC members meet throughout the year to plan and budget for these property renovations. Alpha Beta The Alpha Beta (Purdue University) chapter facility, which is owned by an LHC, saw beautiful renovations of the basement in summer 2017. BEFORE AFTER University Owned Non-Housed Chapters Amplify Convention A property that is owned or managed Alpha Some chapters' Alpha Chi Omega by the university could range from a experience doesn't include housing for The 2018 2018 National Convention common area room, a residence hall one reason or another; these members' National suite dedicated to that chapter or a experiences are just as special. Some of Convention is stand-alone structure. Once students these chapters have a storage unit that upon us! The NHC have departed the premises, the might house chapter possessions, such as board and staff are university and the NHC work through Ritual supplies, recruitment decorations thrilled to welcome all those their processes to prepare the facility for and philanthropy items. The storage unit who are attending convention this the return of chapter members in the fall. is typically maintained by the chapter year. We are particularly excited to This could include a deep clean of the year round and often is cleaned out of meet with the LHC members who facility, a renovation or new furnishings. items the chapter no longer needs during will be participating in specific Some universities host summer camps the summer. and might utilize the Alpha Chi Omega LHC housing sessions on Friday, space to house those campers. If this and then again on Sunday. If you is the case, any large-scale repairs and will be in Austin please stop by maintenance are scheduled either before the NHC table during convention or after the camps are in session. to say hello. We can't wait to see you and wish you safe travels! Collegiate Corner Using STEM Skills to Change a Life By Ashley Hopko (N, University of Colorado Boulder) From Nu chapter at the University of Colorado Boulder, sophomore Lauren Kercheval made headlines all across the state for her groundbreaking engineering project. Alongside her team, Kercheval created a custom tricycle that changed the life of a young girl named Sarah Marshall, who suffers from severe autism spectrum disorder and sensory processing disorder. "The disorder affects a person's communication and learning skills, and can be characterized through difficulties socializing and connecting, compulsive repetitive behaviors, limited interest in activities or interacting, and lack of attention," wrote Kercheval's team in its final report. As an Engineering Plus student at CU, Kercheval is required to take four project-based classes throughout her college career. In each of these classes, the students work on a project that solves a specific problem or somehow benefits the community, and Kercheval's work with the Marshall family was for the class "Engineering for the Community." After her group was assigned based on complementary skills, the team chose Sarah out of a pool of various applicants. "My team and I believe that the trike has the ability to change Sarah's life: She can work on communication, explore show off its hard work. The bike is technically a tricycle her neighborhood and receive the "My team and I are really proud since it has three wheels for stability opportunity to ride a bike," Kercheval that other people were as moved by our and safety. It includes seatbelts and dual says. project as we were," Kercheval says. seating so Sarah can ride with family After several drafts and various edits Sarah can now join her peers and friends who help her feel more to the design, the final product won first pedaling through her neighborhood and comfortable. The team decided the bike place for People's Choice at the 2017 get proper exercise that helps to keep her should be purple - Sarah's favorite color. Design Expo, where the team was able to healthy. The semester-long project challenged 26 Summer 2018 Il The Lyre Collegiate Corner O the team to think outside the box and for Sarah taught her that she can have Lauren Kerchaval (third from left) with her solve challenging complications. For a tremendous impact on other people's project team example, Sarah struggles to exercise her lives. By creatively designing engineering fine motor skills, SO they had to find a projects for people in need, she can way to encourage her to keep pedaling. change the course of other people's lives After interviewing Sarah's family and and leave a lasting legacy of service in her physical therapist, they used Sarah's the community. love of music to their advantage. The team used a type of technology called Arduino, a microcontroller that senses when she's pedaling and plays Sarah's EVENT PRODUCTS favorite songs. When Sarah pedals, the bicycle plays either "Twinkle, Twinkle" or "You Are My Sunshine" as positive Tents Table Covers Podium Counters reinforcement. Throughout the process, Kercheval Pull Up Banners Step & Repeat Walls worked with real clients to improve the lives of others in her community and ups Free Ground Shipping OFFICIAL also learned valuable technical skills, an LICENSED PRODUCT experience she would not have received in the classroom. "My biggest takeaway from this project was the importance of maintaining a schedule because we Alpha Chi Omega ended up being down to the wire to REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. REAL STRONG finish," Kercheval explains. "We decided to weld the trike from scratch in order to make it the most customizable and durable for Sarah; however, the majority Alpha Chi Omega of our progress could not be made until we learned how to weld - and the welding process involved significantly 2s more time than we originally hoped." This experience has helped Kercheval to confirm her career choice in engineering. Helping design the bicycle www.greekitup.com On Campus You Just Graduated - Now What? By Lauren Stark (AX, Butler University), Editor at their college or university, but the Real. Strong. Women. Experience continues throughout life, enhanced by alumnae A new job, a new city, a new wardrobe of business casual programming and support. It's simple to stay connected, in big outfits - the next stage of life after graduation is filled with ways or small. Check out these pages to see just how easy, and change. Luckily, one constant can provide recent college get involved today! graduates some stability: Alpha Chi Omega. Spoiler: These tips are applicable to alumnae at any stage of Most members began their journey with Alpha Chi Omega life! Update Your Contact Info After your bid day, you submitted your contact Log in to alphachiomega.org and click the Stay information, which may have included your residence Connected tab. Click the Update Your Info option to let hall or parent's address and your school email address. Time required: headquarters know how to stay in touch. It's that easy! 1 minute Headquarters can't provide you important news and As Kristyn Tomlinson, director of lifetime engagement, updates unless we know where to reach you after says, "Sixty seconds can impact the trajectory of your school! experience." Follow Alpha Chi Omega on Social Media Facebook: @alphachiomegahq Instagram: @alphachiomegahq Make sure you're following the headquarters accounts Time required: Twitter: @alphachiomegahq to learn national news, see chapters across the country 5 minutes YouTube: @alphachiomegaHQ and share in stories of sisters seeking the heights. Pinterest: Alpha Chi Omega Headquarters Snapchat: @axohq Connect on Linkedln Time required: 5 minutes Follow Alpha Chi Omega Fraternity, Inc. on Linkedln for the latest news. Plus, join the Alpha Chi Omega Networking Group for a forum to connect with sisters in a new city and ask questions of sisters in your industry. Join an Alumnae Chapter Visit the Find Us page on the Alpha Chi Omega website, Time required: An alumnae chapter provides face-to-face connections click Find a Chapter, then search by Cities. All collegiate 20 minutes with sisters, regular meetups, and social and and alumnae chapters in the area will appear. You can to join, time as desired thereafter philanthropy events to continue your involvement. With then email the alumnae chapter president, or search for almost 200 chapters across the country, there's a good the chapter by its Greek name on Facebook and request chance there's a chapter in your new city. to join. Alumnae chapter fees are nominal, and you can commit as much or as little time as desired. "Alpha Chi Omega will always be here as a place to land, no matter your life stage." Kristyn Tomlinson, Director of Lifetime Engagement 28 Summer 2018 Il The Lyre On Campus Become a Mentor or Mentee for Women & Wisdom Time required: 20 minutes to The Women & Wisdom program allows you to connect with advice on goal-setting and skill development SO join, then three 1-hour sessions with sisters in your chosen or desired industry and she can follow in your footsteps. You can also register of mentoring create meaningful relationships from the comfort of your as a mentee to get career advice from women with own home. As a mentor, you'll provide another sister experience doing what you want to do! Volunteer Time required: 10 minutes to fill Looking for hands-on involvement and a way to see the the volunteer role that best fits your skills and availability. out the survey, impact of your actions? Volunteering is for you! The first There are many opportunities, from short-term roles like then time varies step is to fill out the Volunteer Interest Survey on the award reviewers to virtual roles like specialists to on-the- depending on role Stay Connected page of the website so the assistant ground support like advisors. director of volunteer management can match you with Donate to the Foundation Giving to the Foundation is one of the quickest ways to you can receive exclusive news and benefits by Time required: impact the organization. At the top of every page of the donating at certain levels, such as $10 a month to 5 minutes Alpha Chi Omega website is a green Donate button. become a Foundation Partner - trade two lattes a Click it to make a one-time or recurring gift. Additionally, month to leave a legacy! Here's how others can support new grads Collegiate chapters: Ask seniors to bring laptops to their last chapter meeting (each term) and spend a minute updating their contact information on the Alpha Chi Omega website. Alumnae chapters: Before Hall of Commitment, find out where seniors are moving post- graduation, then compile a list of alumnae chapters in those cities. Parents: Gift a Life Loyal membership or Lyre subscription to your daughter so she is kept up to date on news and events. Career Outlook Five Small Linkedln Tips that Make a Big Difference By Brittney Beck (AX, Butler University) ith more than W 500 million current users, LinkedIn is well on its way to becoming the main online recruiting platform used to feature and consume digital résumés. LinkedIn is more than just a site to Tip 1: Update Your Profile Picture serve as your digital résumé though; it's When someone is scrolling through also a fantastic interactive tool that can LinkedIn, they see very little content be used to build and grow your network about you that urges them to either at all career levels. interact further (click on your profile/ As a career services expert, I get send a connection request) or scroll right asked all the time, "Is LinkedIn really past you. that important?" and my answer is Of the limited content they see, your always "YES!" In the professional world, photo is usually the most appealing, and the state of your profile or lack thereof, as such, it plays a big role in a person's Tip 2: Jazz Up Your Headline along with your level of interaction, says initial impression of you. So make sure something about you. Along with the profile picture, the to get it right! Some people have a bad habit of headline is another piece of content Your profile picture should feature neglecting their résumés until they need that urges someone to interact with you you from the shoulders up in business them. But keeping your LinkedIn profile further. Unfortunately, many LinkedIn professional clothing with a solid colored updated is even more important! It's headlines state nothing more than the background. Most importantly, you always public and can be seen by anyone, person's job title and current company. should be smiling and looking like the anywhere and without notice. This is prime real estate that is being friendly and confident woman you are. So if you know your LinkedIn underutilized! profile and activity are serving as Your headline certainly can feature a representation of who you are, your job title and/or company, but that wouldn't you want to make sure they're should not be the main focus. Instead, representing you well? Hint: The answer incorporate language around what you're should be yes! passionate about, your value proposition, The good news is there are a number the sought-after skills you possess or of small things you can do to ensure what you're often praised for. you are maximizing your presence and Doing so will differentiate you and representing yourself as the real, strong communicate some key information right off the bat. woman you are. 30 Summer 2018 Il The Lyre Career Outlook O Tip 5: Network, Network, Network! Once you've spruced up your profile, don't stop there! Leverage the professional networking site for all it has to offer by reaching out to new connections, forming relationships with people you may not otherwise Tip 4: Generate Authentic and come across, consuming or sharing Personable Content professional content and more. Your LinkedIn profile shouldn't read Having an up-to-date, engaging like a standard résumé. Throw out the profile is only half the battle. You have stuffy, standard language and instead to encourage others to view this profile infuse some life into your profile. by remaining an active participant of Write your LinkedIn content in first- this vital social media tool. person point of view doing your best to personally narrate your professional Tip 3: Change your Background story. Banner Photo This same lesson applies to content Once someone clicks on your profile, associated with networking (i.e., writing the banner photo (displayed at the top of a post, sending a message, commenting your profile with your profile picture) is on an article). Everything you post is likely the very first thing they notice. It is a representation of yourself, SO be sure also the first indication that you've taken you do SO in a way that shows off your the time to curate your page. personality. Pick a banner photo that Just remember that LinkedIn is communicates something about who a professional networking site, and Brittney Beck is an initiate of the Alpha you are, the industry you're in or the everything should be written with this Chi (Butler University) chapter and work you do. Don't be afraid to use color in mind. graduated in 2015. She is a double- or highly graphic photos - just be sure it certified senior associate résumé and doesn't clash with the rest of the page. LinkedIn profile writer at Illinois-based career services firm Vocamotive and can be reached on LinkedIn or via email at bbeck@vocamotive.com. The Lyre Il alphachiomega.org 31 Life Navigate Career Transitions at All Stages by Lisa Young Stiers (EO, Indiana State University) hange can be scary. And if that life. Working with advisors both as her chapter's VP change involves your career, the finance and on the university Panhellenic Council stakes seem even higher. helped prepare her for working with older adults. When my daughter was born, I Apke loves her new life - living in downtown left my career in communications Chicago and building her career - but the rigor and media relations for a nonprofit. Since then, and responsibility have been an adjustment. I've done freelance writing and worked a number "In college, I'd juggle six different things. Now, of short-term jobs to get out of the house and earn it's juggling one large ball, and I don't have the time vacation money. and freedom that I used to," she says. "Now there's Over the years, I have often wondered: Is now no skating by. If you're not performing, you're not the right time to jump back into the traditional job going to be there long. I have to perform SO I can market? What would I do? Am I even qualified after pay my bills." such a long break? Apke's advice to new graduates is to be humble I'm still wondering, and I'm not alone. and ask questions. Changing an unsatisfying career trajectory can "Don't be afraid to not know everything. Be be hard, but not impossible. open and willing to learn," she says. "There are so Here, a few brave Alpha Chi Omega sisters share many people willing to help you. Also, own up to their successful career transitions. Hopefully their your mistakes. Your boss knows you're going to stories will encourage others to follow their own make mistakes. It's a teaching moment." career passion. FINDING A FIT AFTER COLLEGE STEPPING INTO A FIRST JOB Emily Gill (IA, Alumnae Initiates) dreamed of The transition from college to her first performing on Broadway. But after four intense professional job last spring has been both exciting years of rehearsals and training to earn her Bachelor and challenging for Allison Apke (EO, Indiana State of Fine Arts degree in musical theater - and University). An internship in the insurance industry watching friends struggle to survive in New York led to her current role as an insurance underwriter. City - Gill was exhausted. Apke's biggest challenges have been learning to "I was SO burned out by the time I graduated communicate with people of different ages, building that I never tried, which I regret," Gill explains. "But new relationships and establishing credibility. I know I would never be where I am today if I had "When you start college, you're surrounded by tried." people your own age, and it's easy to connect," Apke After graduation, Gill struggled to show how says. "I'm the youngest in my office by 11 years. a performance degree could benefit positions in They all go home to their families, and I go back to retail, hospitality or an office. my downtown apartment. It's just a totally different "I learned SO much in the theater: time experience." management, listening, communicating, working Apke encourages students to pursue internships with different personalities," she says. "It became a and other opportunities to get a taste of professional disadvantage because people didn't know how those 32 Summer 2018 Il The Lyre skills would translate." working, it's not serving you. Never feel like you're Instead, Gill remembered a college hobby- trapped in something. There's always time to learn blogging. While she didn't thrive at content a new skill." creation, she loved the creativity of web design. This interest led Gill to a master's degree in interactive media and a job in web and graphic design for a CHANGING DIRECTIONS MID-CAREER nonprofit. Mallory Aldrich (BA, University of Arizona) Gill encourages college students to try classes loved teaching - initially. Aldrich earned an not in their major and to have adventures. When education degree and taught high school history she went to college, Gill dreamed of studying and social studies. abroad and joining a sorority, but her hectic "While teaching is amazing, it's physically and performance and practice schedule allowed neither. emotionally exhausting," says Aldrich. "I felt like I "I feel like I missed out because I was so caught was ready for a switch." up in my degree," says Gill, who joined Alpha Chi Aldrich pondered a career change for a couple Omega as an alumna initiate and now serves as the of years and actively searched for another year communications chair for Theta Omicron Theta before landing a job in December at the Institute (Raleigh, North Carolina). "Just because you start for Educational Advancement. The job search was college with a plan doesn't mean you can't change. challenging because Aldrich felt too qualified for Don't be afraid to make a change if your degree is entry-level positions but not qualified enough for stressing you out." higher-level jobs. Gill urges everyone to find her passion. "I had to find a company willing to take a "Just because you've done something doesn't chance," she explains. mean you have to do it forever," she says. "If it's not The Lyre Il alphachiomega.org 33 Life Aldrich hired a professional to review her remembers. "When I said I was ready to go back, résumé and help translate classroom skills to they said, 'Oh, we totally get it." the office environment. She also highlighted her This connection has offered a basis of Alpha Chi Omega volunteer experience. understanding during her first months on the job. "Essentially, I was running a small company," "I want a company that will understand that Aldrich says of her previous chapter advisor role. I have family needs too," Rogers says. "I want Working with a professional helped hone her something that will be long term." answers to explain how these skills would benefit her new organization. After just a few months on the job, Aldrich is DISCOVERING NEW DIRECTION thrilled with her new role, which included a move from Arizona to California. As a child, Paula Rush Robinson (ZY, Loyola University) knew she should be a teacher but Aldrich offers two pieces of advice: she didn't listen. Mistakenly believing she couldn't Don't be afraid to consider your happiness. make a living, Robinson instead pursued a public "I could tell I wasn't as happy as I had been relations degree. as a teacher, and I knew I wasn't quite as effective," she explains. "I didn't slack off, "My senior year of college, I went to my but I wasn't as enthusiastic and motivated as counselor and said I wanted to change my major I had been." to education," remembers Robinson. "She politely talked me out of it because I could not afford to Take your time. "Find something that will start over with another degree. I gave up the idea." be a good fit," she says. "Don't just jump on the first job available." Robinson worked in a hospital marketing department, until she saw a newspaper ad seeking a primary teacher at a Montessori school. She got the RETURNING AFTER A BREAK job and began a 23-year career teaching preschool, When Jessica Siversen Rogers' second son was kindergarten and first-grade students. She later also born, she left her marketing research career of 15 taught college students studying education. years to stay home with her children. "It was a very rewarding thing to teach 5-year- During the next 18 months, Rogers (TI, olds during the day and college freshmen and University of Florida) started an Etsy shop to sell sophomores at night," Robinson says. "I loved personalized gifts she created in her spare time, working with 'littles' and seeing their light bulbs but she recently felt the urge to return to her turning on. One of my proudest moments was professional career. standing behind one of my former kindergarten students and her mom in the line at Walmart and "I was ready to go back," says Rogers. "I was ready to have more adult interaction. It was time, hearing her read the front of the magazines out but I was still nervous." loud. I helped her learn to do that! It made me very Rogers brushed up on professional lingo and proud." spruced up her wardrobe. Despite her readiness, But in spring 2015, Robinson realized she had Rogers was concerned that a work break would be a grown weary. black mark on her résumé. "I know now that this was the beginning of my Then Rogers started networking. She talked to calling changing. I just did not realize it," Robinson friends who had professional hiring experience, and says. "I thought it was just spring fever. But looking they gave simple advice: Be honest. This is the same back, I realized that I had felt that way for several advice she'd give to other moms because it worked. springs in a row." Rogers started a full-time marketing research job That fall, Robinson was encouraged to run for in April. During the interview, she explained her state representative of the 6th District of Kentucky. situation. "I was SO flattered and terrified! I prayed about "The two people interviewing me were both it, talked about it with my family and decided to working moms. They said, 'We get it," Rogers throw my hat in the ring," says Robinson, who was the first woman from either party to run in the 34 Summer 2018 Il The Lyre Life O district. questioned every decision I had made. But I realized In spring 2016, Robinson took a leave of absence that God had closed those classroom doors to show from her teaching job to campaign. Unfortunately, me that I had a new direction. Honestly, it was very she lost the November election by a little more than hard to no longer identify as a teacher. That was my 2,000 votes. biggest challenge - deciding who I was without the "I was sad, but understood my chances of title of teacher. But the best part of a career change? unseating a 10-year incumbent in a heavily The possibility of being something brand new!" Democratic area were not that great to start with," Today, Robinson works as a client services Robinson says. "I came pretty close, surprised a representative at an ambulance billing company. whole bunch of people and held my head high." And this year, she didn't get spring fever; she's After the election, Robinson, a faith-filled happy in her new role. woman, was not able to return to her old teaching "As I reflect on the past three years, I joke that position and felt lost. it was my giant mid-life crisis," Robinson says. "I wondered why God had opened the door for "Sometimes we must take a really hard look at me to do something absolutely amazing and then lose where we are and what we are doing. Never think and be unable to get back into the classroom," she that it is too late to make some major changes. Life remembers. "I felt abandoned and embarrassed and is too short!" Life TIPS FROM A HIRING MANAGER Jennifer Crotty (third from left) with the collegiate experience volunteer team at the 2017 Volunteer Summit When hiring professional Jennifer Crotty (AM, University Consider a skills-based résumé. Highlight of Massachusetts) sees a unique résumé, she's not hesitant the skills you've gained through a variety of jobs to investigate. She's intrigued. Crotty knows there's a story and volunteer positions that fulfill the important behind that work gap or non-traditional career path. After all, qualifications for a new job. With a chronological she's got one of her own. résumé, sometimes it's difficult to show how skills Today, Crotty is the director of human resources/talent learned in a variety of roles come together to acquisition and development at Amtrak Vacations, but she prepare you for a new position. As a dedicated started her career 17 years ago as an administrative assistant Alpha Chi Omega volunteer, Crotty encourages at an investment firm. She worked her way up through the applicants to include significant volunteer roles. company - eventually working for the CEO and managing "The way I look at it as a hiring manager, you went all administrative functions - and discovered her passion out and tried to gain skills that you want for your was working with people, identifying and developing talent. chosen profession," says Crotty, who is an incoming With the CEO's blessing (even though they didn't have a member of the National Housing Corporation Board position to fit her new aspirations), Crotty earned a master's of Directors after serving a variety of collegiate degree in organizational development and is now finishing experience volunteer roles. her doctorate in the same field. "I was lucky enough to figure out my passion and had a Explain your situation in the cover letter. nurturing environment to pursue that," says Crotty. "A well-written cover letter explaining why you're looking for a change is really important," Crotty Crotty offers these tips for others making a career explains. "No matter what a gap is from, be up front transition: about it. That's just one less question I have to ask Think about your motivation. "Are you looking in an interview." Crotty recently hired a woman who to change careers or are you looking to change took two years off to care for her ailing mother. companies?" Crotty asks. "These are two different Because the hiring team knew the circumstances, things." that break didn't diminish her chances. Learn the skills needed - whether it's earning Regardless of your past career trajectory, an advanced degree, getting certified or honing follow your passion. "Those are the people I love skills as a volunteer. "Your résumé should reflect that hiring," Crotty says, "the people who have found you've made an effort to gain the skills for the career their passion and are actively pursuing it." you want," Crotty says. "That can take shape many different ways." 36 Summer 2018 Il The Lyre REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. of Distinction. 2018 AWARD WINNERS Alma Hernandez BA (UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA) She focuses on the issues of education, "N o, next time." "Why don't you wait your turn?" women's rights, criminal justice reform "You're not seasoned and healthcare. enough." "You need more experience." Her political involvement started These are the opinions Alma early. At age 14, she was the victim of an Hernandez says she has heard often and attack by high schooler seniors, which has chosen to ignore time and again left her with severe spinal damage and on her path to creating change in her exposed her to the criminal justice community. system. She explains that seeing the "I, for one, have made it a mission of system and the school-to-prison pipeline mine to continue fighting and pushing firsthand and learning how it can work for what I believe in and want regardless against people of color fueled her career of what others think," she says. in activism. But she also knew she Only in her mid-twenties, Hernandez needed her degrees. has already overcome many naysayers, "Working in politics while going completing her master's in public to school full time is not easy to do, health on a full scholarship (the first in especially when you are determined to her family) and now running for the make a difference to help others in your Arizona State House of Representatives. community but school remains a top 38 Summer 2018 Il The Lyre Real. Strong. Women. priority in your life," Hernandez says. "I was told I would never go to college or Caitlin Mackey Driscoll do anything with my life when I was just a young girl." OO (MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE It was while at college that Hernandez OF TECHNOLOGY) met the women of Alpha Chi Omega, who provided her with a much-needed She recalls the understanding and love of C aitlin Mackey Driscoll is literally seeking the home after the death of her best friend. heights as an engineer at SpaceX. Working on the Dragon spacecraft system as lead her sisters, and looks back on the chapter's manufacturing engineer at only age 25, her team is diversity and support of all members developing a reliable and safe vehicle to transport with pride. And after graduation, it was astronauts to the International Space Station. time to take that support along with her "I am excited to be part of the mission to keep as she began her master's program while humanity exploring beyond just our planet," she says. simultaneously preparing to run for office. "Exploring the unknown is part of who we are, from "After completing my bachelor's, sailing the seas to scaling mountains to I was determined to prove everyone setting foot on the moon." wrong and continue my education In a male-dominated field and and push for more diversity and company - where less than 10 percent representation in higher education and of technical roles are filled by women politics because I found out that was the Driscoll is participating in a focus only way we could create change in our group to shrink the gender gap. And communities," she says. she brings in women directly, helping While she is running for office several Alpha Chi Omegas land jobs to effect change at the policy level, and internships at SpaceX. As the only Hernandez is also committed to female in many rooms, Driscoll feels hands-on action in her community, fortunate to have many sisters at the volunteering at health and wellness fairs, company to provide mentorship and fundraising for DACA students, and friendship. advocating for quality and affordable Alpha Chi Omega has played a role in Driscoll's healthcare. She explains that her political life since childhood. Her grandmother and great- work and her public health work are grandmother were members of the Alpha (DePauw equally necessary and tie in directly University) chapter and showed her the meaning of with civic engagement and community sisterhood. She carried that legacy forward into her activism. collegiate years, serving as VP Ritual and fraternity Hernandez is committed to appreciation and chapter president. encouraging women to seek the heights "As an undergraduate, I was able to grow SO much professionally, and she can look to through my Alpha Chi Omega experience," Driscoll her Alpha Chi Omega experience as a adds. "I learned how to truly support someone and motivator. hold myself responsive to their needs; I learned to "When they said to me, 'a lifetime of continually try to be a better version of myself; and friendship and opportunities,' I didn't I was encouraged to try new things and know that I really understand what they meant until would have sisters who would support me no matter now," Hernandez explains. "Now that I'm what." running for office, I think of all the real, "Overall, Alpha Chi has provided me with such strong women who have paved the way an amazing system of support and encouragement to for us, and I hope to make my sisters keep becoming the best I can be and seeking higher proud." heights." The Lyre Il alphachiomega.org 39 Real. Strong. Women. Julie Sandiford DeTemple (MARSHALL UNIVERSITY) F or Julie Sandiford DeTemple, MD, FAAFP, Alpha Chi Omega helped her grow "from a relatively shy undergraduate to a confident young woman Seana Day who was not afraid to take on leadership roles," she says. This confidence N (UNIVERSITY OF was needed when she launched her career as a solo family practitioner, at a time when practicing as a partner would have been easier, especially for one of only a COLORADO BOULDER) small number of female family doctors in Charleston, West Virginia. The risk she took, though, has had a tremendous impact on her community. W hen you think of agriculture, you may visualize pre-dawn "On a daily basis, I have the privilege of caring for my patients in some of their hours tilling the fields, most vulnerable times, and provide them with physical, emotional and spiritual getting your hands dirty. When you support," DeTemple explains. "As a businesswoman, I have been able to provide think of technology, you can picture stable employment for 16 other women in my community and provide a positive whirring computers in a cubicle. Can work environment in which they can thrive." you imagine combining the two? With more than 15 years in practice, DeTemple has become an active member That's exactly what Seana Day does of the WV Aledade Accountable Care Organization, which aims to improve in the growing AgTech (Agriculture value-based medical care, and she is the medical director of the physician assistant Technology) sector as a partner at Better program at the University of Charleston. She participates heavily in service, a Food Ventures and The Mixing Bowl. value she says she learned through her collegiate years at Alpha Chi Omega. "One of the most challenging DeTemple coordinates and participates in medical mission trips to Togo, West aspects of my work is the proverbial Africa, serving in inpatient and clinical settings and in mobile outreach clinics to bridge-building between the agriculture rural villages. community and the technology "I learned the value of community service [from Alpha Chi Omega]," she says, innovation ecosystem," she explains. "and the blessings that come with serving others." "While change can be daunting in any industry, technology adoption and expectations about the speed of change in our vast agriculture system has been unpredictable at best, and downright hard the rest of the time. Suffice it to say, there are SO many exciting opportunities to apply technology on the farm, but more still needs to be done to understand the needs of large and small food producers." After a decade in London as a technology investment banker, Day picked up her life and returned home to Turlock, California to "walk an unknown path" and combine her passion for agriculture with her knowledge of Real. Strong. Women. technology. Though her path was unknown, Day Kelley Brooks Simoneaux could lean on knowledge she learned from her years at the Nu chapter. AQ (BIRMINGHAM-SOUTHERN COLLEGE) "My time as a collegiate Alpha Chi fter a car wreck at age 16 left membership to her decision to go to was really about a community and all of the things it takes to support a A her with a spinal cord injury law school and into her career and due to a seat belt defect, advocacy work, the support from her healthy network," she explains. "It is Kelly Brooks Simoneaux could have sisters has been central to Simoneaux's also about understanding that while given up. But her accident and the journey. we are all important as individuals, resulting waist-down paralysis became "They did not see my disability, or our contributions to things bigger than her motivator to make a career out of the fact that I used a wheelchair," she ourselves make that road less traveled helping others with similar injuries. explains. "I was a sister, just the same." feel a lot less lonely." She now works as an attorney for those This hasn't always been the case Day focuses on how her career who have been catastrophically injured for Simoneaux. She explains that she and her industry impacts the rural due to others' negligence. In fact, one works daily in a world of mostly able- communities of California, connecting trial case she worked on led to policy bodied, male peers. Throughout her the entrepreneurial growers and food change for vehicle manufacturers career as a trial lawyer, she has faced processors to each other and to the in regard to seat belt design and the doubters head-on. At one of her innovative ideas of technology. construction, bringing her life and first trials, a judge requested she stand "Not only has the intersection of Ag career full circle. out of respect - as is customary in and Technology become a driving force "Not only does this work allow me court - and she had to explain she was in the evolution of our food system, to seek justice for individuals, it also not physically able to do so! I am also lucky enough to be a part provides a real outlet to push for safety Beyond the courtroom, Simoneaux of the most satisfying and interesting changes and advocacy for those living is using her professional and personal professional pursuit that I could have with spinal cord injuries," Simoneaux experiences to advocate for change. imagined," she says. explains. She volunteers with the United She points to her Alpha Chi Spinal Association and participated Omega sisters as "nothing short of in the Roll on Capitol Hill to address instrumental" to her success in life members of Congress about important and law. From the very start of her issues affecting those with similar injuries. She has also raised funds for and mentored patients at Shepherd Center, where she received treatment after her own accident. Simoneaux continues to use her story to make change. "Each day I enter a courtroom, roll into a conference room or take a position stance in the state and federal legislature, I am able to put more visibility for those living with a disability," she explains. "The more visible we are, the more change we can seek." The Lyre Il alphachiomega.org 41 D Real. Strong. Woman. and the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators. She holds a bachelor's degree in mass communication from Florida State University, and a master's degree and doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Pennsylvania. While guiding and providing vision to the Florida State campus community, Hecht has developed her personal measure of success. "I think my greatest accomplishment is developing the confidence to listen to my instincts, not fear failure and lead authentically," she says. "There are SO many ways to lead and in our culture, we revere success, yet we often don't see the hard work, the mistakes and uncertainty Dr. Amy W ith her experiences as an that leaders face all the time. To own Alpha Chi Omega collegiate that and not let fear of failure prevent Hecht chapter president and me from pursuing a goal has been at the consultant in her pocket, Dr. Amy Hecht core of everything I've accomplished and BH (FLORIDA STATE is on a mission to transform campus am proud of." culture at Florida State University, where UNIVERSITY) she works as the vice president for student affairs. "We're working to change the culture in a positive way to ensure we have a more successful fraternity and sorority community that positively contributes to our campus and the individual members," Hecht explains. "Change can be challenging, and to shift a culture takes time. Being persistent, consistently communicating and being adaptable helped me to take on this challenge, but we're still working on it." Her professional experience in the student affairs field began in 2001, but Hecht's affinity to the industry began as a collegiate Alpha Chi Omega, when, as chapter president, she worked alongside university administrators. Over the years, Hecht has built her career through leadership and management in the higher education field, and has Real. Strong. Woman. Anita without a decreasing mortality rate, thyroid cancer is regarded as a "good" Hubbard cancer, which is a notion Hubbard hopes to change. She explains that the need to spread awareness of the I (SOUTHERN cancer pushed her out of her comfort METHODIST zone by compelling her to tell her UNIVERSITY) own story. "I was suddenly forced to reckon with many uncomfortable emotions didn't have a choice about "I I originally dodged during my being diagnosed with thyroid treatments because I was so focused cancer, but it has certainly on just surviving," she explains. provided me with a more meaningful "What I have learned, however, is that life," says Anita Hubbard. "Through my story is not unique, and thyroid the difficult moments of suffering and cancer is a misunderstood disease overcoming this illness, I developed a in great need of awareness and unique and deep empathy for others research funding, and I am grateful who are struggling with this disease, for the opportunity to try to make which is what compelled me to start up a difference in the world of thyroid this nonprofit." cancer." Now in its second year, Hubbard's This past Valentine's Day - nonprofit Love Your Thyroid Foundation exactly five years after Hubbard's aims to raise awareness and funds for initial diagnosis - the Love Your thyroid cancer research. Although it Thyroid Foundation's fundraising is one of the fastest growing cancer event exceeded its goal, raising diagnoses and one of the few cancers more than $28,000. While running the nonprofit, Hubbard has met survivors, caregivers and healthcare Yvette professionals who walk alongside her. The importance of a network Martinez of support is something she learned from Alpha Chi Omega. ZN (TEXAS A&M "Alpha Chi Omega gave UNIVERSITY) me invaluable lessons in how to effectively execute charitable work in a community and the massive fter two decades in the difference a group of real, strong A business and rising to the women can make," she says. "My position of CEO of North experience with Alpha Chi Omega, Texas Imaging Hampton Center, through all of the philanthropic work Yvette Martinez has numerous as well as my lifelong friendships with professional accolades. But when my sisters (going on 17 years now!), asked to express her greatest were the stepping stones to gaining accomplishment, she points out that the courage I needed to establish and it is "in each of the women that I have incorporate my own nonprofit." had the opportunity to mentor and who they have become and what they have accomplished in their own lives The Lyre Il alphachiomega.org 43 Real. Strong. Woman. Shana Brouder BII (WASHINGTON COLLEGE) as leaders, educators, mothers and philanthropists." Martinez's focus on empowering women is evident in all areas of her life. She is a member of the Genesis Women's Shelter Alliance, acting as a community ambassador to educate women about domestic violence. She has taken this connection with Genesis back to Beta Kappa Beta (Dallas, Texas) alumnae chapter, where she serves as vice president philanthropy. She has built a bridge so the chapter is more aware of how it can assist in Genesis' ongoing needs, and she has encouraged sisters to increase involvement, with activities that include donation drives and events with the shelter's children. Moreover, Martinez is a Ritual and fraternity appreciation advisor at Iota Sigma (Southern Methodist University) chapter and a director for the Aggie Women's Network at Texas A&M University, where she provides mentorship. And in her business, where she provides full-service outpatient diagnostic testing, she encourages her employees to pursue higher education, with many earning scholarships and degrees. She insists that supporting women betters the world. fter 25 years of supporting organization that introduced me to the "My efforts to inspire upon young A domestic violence awareness world of domestic violence work and women the importance of education as our national philanthropy, advocacy," says Brouder, the current and how it affects our decision- Alpha Chi Omega has seen hundreds chapter advisor for Gamma Theta making in life ultimately contributes of walks, fundraisers and education (University of Maryland). "When to the overall wellness of our sessions. Shana Brouder turned this I had an opportunity to apply for a communities," she explains. philanthropy into a career with the job working at a domestic violence Jewish Coalition Against Domestic service provider, I jumped at it, Abuse. because I already knew how fulfilling "Alpha Chi Omega was the first and meaningful the work was. The 44 Summer 2018 Il The Lyre Real. Strong. Woman. emphasis on women helping women is something that touched a chord in my heart and drove me to work in this field." As the communications and events coordinator, Brouder is responsible for communicating JCADA's vast array of services to the Greater Washington, D.C. community, ensuring that all people, not just Jewish victims, affected by power- based violence see the organization as a place for hope and help. "Talking about topics like domestic violence is hard enough, Kim Kelly and some cultural barriers make the conversation almost impossible," ZP (NORTHWOOD UNIVERSITY) Brouder explains. "By working to S executive director of the identify these key cultural barriers its House to provide a private bathroom and working to lower them based A Ronald McDonald House for each family and built a second on these conversations, I have been Charities of Ann Arbor, Kim House within the hospital to serve even able to help address some of the Kelly has led monumental changes for more people - now up to 1,200 families challenges related to marketing and the organization and, more importantly, annually. communication of our services." for the families it serves. The RMHCAA "When a parent has just found out Brouder also is in charge of the aims to provide a "home away from that their child is seriously ill and will home" for families of children with organization's only fundraising require long-term hospitalization or event, a 5K. With her dedication serious illnesses and those receiving treatment, the last thing they need to be treatment. and creativity, the event tripled worried about is where they will stay or its funds raised from the previous Alpha Chi Omega provided Kelly where their next meal will come from," year, with surplus funds being put with numerous lessons that play a direct Kelly says. "We provide all the comforts role in her career. of home SO families can focus on what to use immediately for services. Additionally, she is implementing an "I learned about being a good sister matters most - the health of their child." outreach plan to increase recognition and friend, how to lead a team, how In addition to managing the of JCADA in the community and in to fundraise, how to work with many fundraising and vision of these turn connect with more survivors. different personalities and ways of projects, Kelly has been instrumental "The fact that I can help even thinking," she notes. "I think most of all in implementing best practices for one person each day get closer to it gave me a sense of confidence." operational and fundraising programs overcoming their past trauma and That confidence is key in her role. and for staff. She also serves with build a healthy future for themselves Kelly was at the helm of two major compassion, helping families on the and their families makes it worth it," projects that have had a significant confusing, difficult journey of childhood Brouder notes. impact on families. Leading two separate illness. capital campaigns that raised $3 million collectively, the RMHCAA renovated The Lyre Il alphachiomega.org 45 Archives MY CHAPTER: THEN AND NOW B A B Beta Lambda Beta Austin, Texas From the spring 1948 issue of The Lyre: Have you ever thought about eta Lambda Beta is now one year old, and we what your chapter was doing B feel the first year as an alumnae chapter has 10, 20 or 50 years ago? Have been a very successful year. things changed? Are the same traditions still in place? Taken We have been meeting the third Wednesday from previous Lyre magazines, of each month, usually at the Alpha Phi chapter house. the "My Chapter: Then and At each meeting we have had a program on Alpha Chi Now" series offers a brief Omega to refresh ourselves with the history, government, glimpse into what life was like for Alpha Chi Omega chapters etc., of our fraternity. throughout the decades. Beta Lambda Beta cooperated with City Panhellenic in sponsoring a very successful charity ball in February. The As we head to Austin, Texas for proceeds of this ball bought equipment for the Cerebral the 2018 National Convention, we decided to share a little about Palsy Center here in Austin which opened in February, the Austin alumnae chapter and and in which, of course, we are especially interested as this how it has changed - and stayed is Alpha Chi Omega's national altruistic project. the same - over the years. Be At our March meeting we had some movies about sure to find some Beta Lambda cerebral palsy which helped us to become more Beta members throughout the convention weekend! thoroughly acquainted with our project and inspired us to do all we can for this worthy cause. We are making big plans for our state convention to be held here in Austin May 8 and 9. We are looking forward to seeing Alpha Chis from all parts of Texas. On Sunday morning, May 9, we will have the Senior Breakfast at the Austin Country Club, honoring the seniors of Alpha Phi chapter, in order that the visiting alumnae may share this pleasure with the Austin alumnae. With this year's activities about to end, we are looking forward to a bigger and better year next year with Beta Lambda Beta. 46 Summer 2018 Il The Lyre Archives The Beta Lambda Beta Chapter Today By Kimberly Knighten-Donovan alumnae chapter, we are also actively looking (EZ, Auburn University), Beta Lambda Beta chapter president for ways to support the Alpha Phi chapter at the University of Texas. We support the chapter's fashion The sisters of Beta Lambda Beta represent a wide show fundraiser by helping with logistics and variety of chapters - both in schools attended and donating silent auction items and a photo booth. where we are in life. One thing that has not changed The biggest item to be launched this year will be is we share the bond of Alpha Chi. Generally, we the establishment of a mentoring program. The have a couple of events each month to catch up and program will connect collegians with alumnae in experience new things together. This year we've their field to share advice and provide networking held monthly "Lunch Bunch" meetings trying new opportunities. The collegians also do much for restaurants, brunch, a mystery wine tasting and a us, including hosting alumnae for Valentine's Day flower arranging class. cookie decorating and trick-or-treating with our Our chapter is civic-minded, supporting SAFE children at the chapter house. Alliance in Austin Every December, we hold a We look forward to seeing longtime friends and Cheers and Charity event to raise donations, and we making new ones at the 2018 National Convention! meet several times each year to cook the meal for See you all later this month! the life skills classes offered by the organization. In addition to enjoying things together as an Accomplished Alumnae Extra! Extra! Read All About Your Sisters in Media! By Allison Foster (TX, News is all around us - on the front page of the paper on your driveway, on Stetson University), Advancement Officer, your phone as you scroll waiting for your coffee, on your TV before going and Lauren Stark (AX, to bed. Alpha Chi Omegas, too, are all around, SO it's no surprise that they're Butler University), Editor giving you the news you need. Read about just a few of them! Amanda LaBrot (AN, University of Missouri) Brittney Sceals (IX, Middle Tennessee After a childhood spent watching the news, Amanda LaBrot now reports State University) it. A weekend morning anchor and Brittney Sceals has found her multimedia journalist for WTOC 11 calling - a profession that brings News in Savannah, Georgia, LaBrot together her desire to work for a practices all areas of journalism. For company that lives its mission while each story, she writes the television aligning with her passion for living script, conducts interviews, shoots and her altruistic values. Brittney serves edits video, and publishes a web article. as the director of talent acquisition On top of that, she anchors digital-only for Axios, a new media company with mini newscasts that stream on Facebook the goal of providing news in efficient and the station's app, also posting on and shareable ways. In her role, she social media to provide updates. With lives out her passion by recruiting new stories every day - or every hour - Photo courtesy of WTOC talent to the Axios team. she has to be flexible. Media had not always been the "Crazy things will happen, but you the newsroom with coworkers it takes focus for Sceals' professional scope; learn to make it work," LaBrot says. no extra effort to be nice to people." when Axios launched in 2016 with "I almost never know what story I'm The support of others, particularly the mission of putting the reader first, going to cover until I go into work in women and their accomplishments, she says she knew this lined up with the morning or what news might break. is something LaBrot learned from her passions. Sceals describes herself It's part of what makes my job fun, and Alpha Chi Omega. as growing up in rural America, with it forces me to be flexible and problem "Celebrating someone else's success her parents and others receiving solve quickly." doesn't diminish your own," she says, information regularly from news Her stories have been wide- adding, " the whole group, company or sources they may or may not know to ranging, covering everything from the office benefits when everyone performs question. She explains she believes in University of Georgia's Rose Bowl trip to to the best of her ability." Axios because it is creating a source accusations of sexual misconduct against And she continues to learn from this of news and information that people the Savannah State University police sisterhood as a recruitment advisor for at any educational or socioeconomic chief. the Kappa Sigma (University of Southern level could understand. "I meet people on the best or worst Mississippi) chapter, explaining that she's Sceals adds that the most exciting day of their life depending on the story, gaining mentoring, organizational and part of her role is the recruitment of and I have to meet them where they are," communication skills that will help her talented journalists and technology she explains. "I use the same idea inside directly in her career in news. 48 Summer 2018 Il The Lyre Accomplished Alumnae O professionals that have the potential to a chapter consultant, a role that made completely change the media landscape her, simply, "fearless." In a role with SO and how people interact with it on a much autonomy she had to build trust daily basis. Specifically, she recruits from and confidence in herself immediately. all over the country into Axios' entry- Working as a consultant also catapulted level journalism program. Sceals says her critical thinking to a deeper level she loves her role because she brings early on - she is firm in saying her job as a consultant is how she became so brave. in young professionals who have the opportunity to learn about what they Throughout her career and prior to want to be, connecting them with great moving to DC for her role with Axios, mentors as they begin their careers. Alpha Chi Omega has always been a part Alpha Chi Omega has been of her experience, from mentors as she instrumental in terms of how Sceals made career transitions to welcoming built her career to where she is arms as she moved to a new city not today. After graduating from Middle knowing anyone. Photo by Morgan McCloy, shooter/editor Tennessee State University, she became Kristen Soltis Anderson (FI, University of Florida) Sitting opposite Democrat Margie "A podcast is much more unfiltered Omero each week, Republican Kristen and unvarnished [than TV news shows]," Soltis Anderson hosts The Pollsters, she says. "It feels like an authentic way a podcast that discusses the numbers to speak in depth and in a nuanced way behind politics, technology and the about a topic." week's major headlines. The duo With such episode titles as "Jeggings started the podcast three years ago after VS. Trump 2020," the podcast is an being paired for NPR coverage of the approachable medium to speak to State of the Union, at the beginning millennials, which Anderson notes are a of podcasting's rise in popularity. The key voting demographic. She also adds podcast aims to "lift the hood on the that a podcast is a more personal way to numbers revealing the hidden secrets of connect with listeners than TV or print the public's mind." news. Anderson is not new to the study With such political division in the of voting numbers. A co-founder of the country, it's rare to find two women on research and analytics firm Echelon different sides of the aisle collaborating Photo by Eric Draper Insights, she authored The Selfie Vote: so closely. However, Anderson has found Where Millennials Are Leading America that some of the best conversations she of shared news on social media: "Always (And How Republicans Can Keep Up). has about politics are with those who stop and take a deep breath when you This led to appearances on the Piers disagree, yet maintain respect. see something on social media that stirs Morgan show, followed by an ABC News "Margie and I don't agree on deep emotion. The sites are being driven contributor role and a column with the everything, but we're coming to these by algorithms, sending stories that they Washington Examiner. She explains conversations giving the other the think people will click on. We engage that unlike a TV show where she must benefit of the doubt," she explains. "And with things that make us feel things explain topics in a short soundbite, we've found we agree on a lot because Take a moment and check it out. The podcasting allows her to dig deeper into we've had these candid conversations." thing that causes the emotion may not topics during the hour-long episodes. Anderson also has advice for this age be accurate." The Lyre Il alphachiomega.org 49 Fraternity Business What's New with the Recruitment Recommendation Form? housands of women join the sisterhood of Alpha Chi Omega T each year, and we rely on our lifetime members to let chapters know of outstanding women who could be one of them. The online recruitment recommendation form was introduced in AXQ 2015 to streamline the process for recommending a potential new member (PNM) to a collegiate chapter prior to recruitment. We've heard your feedback, and we've updated the online form to make it easier and quicker for a member to submit a recommendation and for a chapter to view that information. The form is available exclusively online at https://www.alphachiomega. org/recommend. Some of the improvements you will find include: A one-page form that is shorter and easier to navigate - no more clicking through multiple pages A field to allow you to explain why you are recommending a member - no need to send in a separate letter The start date for recruitment on the campus for which you are submitting the recommendation - SO you are aware of your deadline Compatibility with computers, smartphones and tablets - a full compatibility list is available online We understand the online form is still a transition for some alumnae, but we're positive that the benefits are worth the effort! Did you know almost 15,000 recommendations were submitted last year? The online form allows chapters to more efficiently and effectively manage the influx of recommendations, with all information and data appearing in a consistent format and via the same online platform. The recommendation process is easier for alumnae too! A submitted form is sent directly to the chapter, SO recommenders no longer need to search for the contact information for mailing. They will also be automatically notified when the recommendation is received and if the PNM joins the chapter. The system will retain all saved and submitted recommendations, so recommenders don't need to maintain paper documents! As an additional benefit, the online system tracks legacy relationships, helping headquarters better connect our sisterhood. Resources, including an instruction manual and webinars, are available on the Alpha Chi Omega website to help you submit a recommendation. Additional questions? Email recommendations@alphachiomega.org or call 317-579-5050. 50 Summer 2018 Il The Lyre FAQs How do I access the recommendation form? Log into the Alpha Chi Omega website with your username and password and select Recommend a Member on the homepage. Why can't I attach a resume? You no longer need to attach a PNM's resume, as the online recommendation form allows you to submit the same information in easy-to-read fields. How do I add a photo to my recommendation? Submit a photo near the top of the form. Your photo LEGACY INFORMATION must be in .jpeg format and cannot exceed 350 KB. A legacy to Alpha Chi Omega is a Can I send a recommendation or additional sister, daughter, granddaughter or great- information by mail? granddaughter of a member. The Alpha Chi The online form contains fields for all information a chapter needs about a PNM. Anything submitted outside Omega member and her family member the system may not be reviewed by a chapter. If you are define their legacy relationship (e.g., step not comfortable using the online form, please contact relations, blended families). With the online your local alumnae chapter for assistance. form, collegiate chapters can appropriately track legacies, and headquarters can connect Do | need to let the chapter know I'm done with the generations through the bonds of the form? sisterhood. The system automatically relays the completed form to the chapter you selected. Additionally, you will receive a confirmation email within 24 hours to let you know the The complete legacy policy can be found on chapter received your recommendation. alphachiomega.org. For members with a legacy anticipating recruitment, we highly recommend Do I have to complete my recommendation at one watching the webinar "How to Prepare Your time? Legacy for Recruitment." You should save your recommendation early and often, and you may reopen it at any time to edit it until you submit it to the chapter. Additional FAQs can be found on alphachiomega.org. Do As a member of Alpha Chi Visit alphachiomega.org/recommend you Omega, you are our best to create and submit a recruitment know recommendation form. While you're resource for helping recruit there, view our training videos, FAQs and real, strong women into our other resources to discover what's new someone sisterhood. with recruitment! who would If you know an outstanding young We encourage you to take advantage of make a great woman who plans to participate in these new resources to recommend a recruitment on her campus this year, be member as Alpha Chi Omega embraces sister? sure to take advantage of our convenient the future of recruiting outstanding online recommendation form to let the members. chapter know. Let us know. alphachiomega.org/recommend Volunteer Spotlight Chelsea Simko ZY (Case Western Reserve University) Recruitment advisor for Alpha Omicron (The Ohio State University) chapter, recruitment specialist for the Ohio Province and member of the RFM (Release Figure Management) Feedback Report Writing Task Force " Alpha Chi Omega has given me so many opportunities for personal and professional growth through every collegiate officer and volunteer role I have held in my 10 years of membership. The more I give to our organization, the more I get back in return. What is something that not everyone may Orthodox Christian churches in our know about you? community. My husband and I collect vintage badges, jewelry and memorabilia What is your favorite Alpha Chi Omega from our membership organizations - memory as a collegian? Alpha Chi Omega and Phi Kappa Tau. I had the privilege of serving as a page Our oldest pieces are from the early during the 2010 National Convention 1900s! in Washington, D.C. That was definitely one of the highlights of my collegiate What keeps your Monday through Friday experience and opened my eyes to busy? the many opportunities for lifetime My time is pretty evenly split between commitment to Alpha Chi Omega. employment and volunteer work. I work for Delta Gamma Executive What is your favorite Alpha Chi Omega Offices in the member services memory as an alumna? department, assisting both collegiate Any time our volunteer team has an and alumnae chapters with a variety of opportunity to come together, whether tasks and programs, like the alumnae that's Social Excellence Training or initiate program, for example. Volunteer Summit, we are sure to make great memories! Are you involved with any other philanthropic or service commitments? What does "volunteer" mean to you? Yes, my husband and I are very To me, a volunteer is someone who is involved with our church and spend church calendar, sending out Council always looking for a way to improve time a few days a week there, assisting action items, and general organizational their community. It's someone who is with services, attending meetings, efforts within the parish. We have also quick to help, forward-thinking and volunteering, etc. I sit on the Parish recently spent time volunteering with willing to work hard for the good of and serving on the advisory board of others. A volunteer is someone who Council and am the executive secretary, which involves scheduling events, FOCUS Columbus, an organization likes to stay busy and is energized by maintaining and creating the master operating a soup kitchen and food opportunities to serve. pantry with the help of a group of The Lyre Il alphachiomega.org 53 W M sisters mentors &m mentees friends Participating in a mentoring program is an effective way 96% of mentees are able to develop new skills, achieve goals and identify areas for to apply their learning growth. A good mentoring relationship is mutually beneficial directly to their for both the mentor and the mentee and, especially for the careers. mentee, can predict career success. 67% of women who said One of the core tenets of Alpha Chi Omega is wisdom, which that they have never been a is woven throughout our sisterhood. We strive to grow in wisdom and impart our wisdom on to other women. mentor said that it's because Our collegians and alumnae have also expressed a need for no one ever asked. connection and opportunities to give back to Alpha Chi Omega in meaningful ways that are interactive, engaging, 60% of college and flexible and time-finite. graduate students list mentoring as a job criterion. Enter Women & Wisdom, AXO www.alphachiomega.org/womenandwisdom 54 Summer 2018 Il The Lyre His Side of the Story Friendship, Leadership, Learning and Service By Tim Johnson, CPA, Senior Financial Controller When I decided to leave my last of these mentors nominated me to be employer after 17 years, many people a "Loaned Executive" for the United asked where I was going. When I told Way. In this role, I left my job for three them "the national headquarters of a months and became a full-time employee sorority," I received quite a few interesting of the United Way where I called on looks. The next question was "Why?" local companies and helped them run And I told them "because of friendship, their campaigns. What an awesome leadership, learning and service." opportunity that was supported by company leadership. When evaluating Friendship. I was not the best student in employers, it is SO important to know high school, and I also struggled in my what tone is set at the top, and to first year at Ball State University. Before find a place that supports family and I joined Phi Delta Theta, I was finally community participation (like AXO!). starting to apply myself to studies more, but I improved even more by being Learning. Whenever I have taken a still support the United Way by sitting with a group of men where there was personality/strength test, one of my top on teams that perform agency evaluation importance put on studies and keeping results is being a lifetime learner. I was audits for the nonprofit organizations up our chapter GPA. We definitely had blessed with the opportunity to have my they fund. When you work at Alpha Chi our share of fun (probably too much), but employer support the attainment of my Omega, you get to see service happening during pledgeship and being a collegiate MBA at the University of Indianapolis, consistently. planning for Hera Day and member there was always an expectation as well as becoming a Certified Public other events, Foundation initiatives and and support for being successful in class. Accountant (CPA). Having these skills the standing headquarters philanthropy The relationships I gained were critical has not only helped my career but also committee that meets throughout the year to my success, and I am not sure I would given me many skills that allow me to to plan and organize ongoing efforts for our staff. have graduated without the support of my volunteer my service to the community. brothers. It was SO important having close Alpha Chi Omega does a great deal friends in that critical stage of life where to support learning on campuses When you go to work each day, there you have a bond to be there for each other nationwide, and Foundation grants are SO many things that are important. in all situations. These bonds are very support many education programs and Being able to support my family, and important to Alpha Chi Omega, not only scholarships to promote learning. doing it at a place that supports these in the chapters but also with alumnae and principles, is very fulfilling. I also enjoy within the headquarters staff. Service. When I look through the setting a good example for my two financial reports of Alpha Chi Omega, it teenage daughters and sharing with them Leadership. For most of my career, I is heartwarming to see the resources we what Alpha Chi Omega stands for and worked for an employee-owned company commit to domestic violence awareness does in our community. So why work at (ESOP) that was built on servant and many other programs. Service is very Alpha Chi Omega? I get to do the finance leadership. I had many mentors that important to me, as I am currently on the and accounting work I love, and I get to encouraged participation in charities board for Ascent 121 (www.ascent121. see friendship, leadership, learning and and nonprofits. My first real opportunity org), which supports trauma recovery of service happen every day. in the nonprofit world came when one teen survivors of sex trafficking. I also The Lyre Il alphachiomega.org 55 LET US TRANSFORM YOUR GREEK SPACE FROM A TO Q PDR Interiors specializes in dynamic transformations of Greek spaces, and we're AXO proud. Our team AXQ handles every last detail to make your house a home. GREEK SPACE TEAM DIG LIZ TOOMBS, C.I.D. & ERIKA WILHELMI, C.I.D. PDR INTERIORS PDR-INTERIORS.COM @@@@@@@@@ @@@@@@@@@ Welcome to Sisterhood, Empowered. Our simplified, secure and customizable platform is designed for the unique needs of sorority life. Our solutions drive connection, collaboration and communication. My Chapter Room Advancing the member experience together. MyChapterRoom.com | 888-996-7496 | hello@mychapterroom.com SHOP FOR ALPHA CHI ALPHA CHI AXQ OMEGA ALPHA CHI OMEGA alpha chi U FIND US ON findgreek.com Pink Changing Lives At Mary Kay, our go-give spirit is at the core of who we are. It's embedded in our corporate fabric and will forever be a part of our culture and our people. That's why we're SO passionate about enriching the lives of women and their families. For more than 50 years, we've remained firm in our commitment to do well by doing good. We call it Pink Changing Lives®. To learn more about Mary Kay's corporate social responsibility initiatives and The Mary Kay Foundation SM , visit marykay.com. MARY KAY ENRICHING WOMEN'S LIVES Alumna Initiate Spotlight Introducing Rho Chi Rho By Dena Norrod (AZ, Central Michigan University), Assistant Director - Lifetime Engagement Before Alpha Chi Omega celebrated its first birthday, the policy was created to allow the initiation of non-collegiate women, most of whom were musicians in the early years. Since that time, Alpha Chi Omega has initiated several hundred women - with or without musical ability - who are outstanding members of their community and desired to be a member of a national organization. The benefits of becoming an alumna initiate include: A network of sisters and friends who support you in achieving your personal and professional goals throughout your lifetime The chance to engage in the bonds of sisterhood with an Alpha Chi Omega family member Involvement with our national philanthropy In 2017, a group of alumnae initiates expressed item was to participate in both a MacDowell Month interest in forming an alumnae chapter to support activity and Alpha Chi Omega Night Out in their alumnae initiates in their membership experience. communities. Rho Chi Rho was chartered on November 13, 2017, "Rho Chi Rho has created a place for alumnae and its purpose is to connect alumnae initiates initiates like myself to bond with each other and that may not be near a physical alumnae chapter become more active in Alpha Chi Omega," says and to give a home to all women initiated outside chapter member Chelsea Hardy. "I have connected the traditional collegiate setting to enrich their with several real, strong women who I would have Alpha Chi Omega experience. never known about had I not joined this chapter, This virtual chapter had 28 members as of and I look forward to our monthly discussions, April and continues to recruit new members. especially our discussion topics and the Symphony One of its first activities was starting a Symphony Study that keep the values of Alpha Chi Omega Study. Each month, members choose a line of the fresh in my mind each month." Alpha Chi Omega Symphony and examine it closer Members of Rho Chi Rho are from all walks of in the context of their lives and experience. The life and include everyone from recent graduates line is posted in a forum on the chapter website to retired women. But they all share one thing in SO members can share with one another the line's common: the desire to continue the Real. Strong. meaning. A book club has also been started to Women. Experience that began with their alumnae continue the connection between members. initiation. Rho Chi Rho encourages members to be active For more information about Rho Chi Rho, visit in their local community by promoting a monthly the website at: https://cherylkoning.wixsite.com/ action item. For example, the February 2018 action axorhochirho 58 Summer 2018 Il The Lyre AXQ Connect Alpha Beta SHiChi S Theta 1 3 Omes 4 2 collegiate notes 1 Beta Delta (College of William & Mary) 2 Delta Kappa (Sam Houston State 3 Delta Rho (University of Arkansas) The chapter was thrilled to welcome University) At the chapter's annual Volley Against home new members during its spring bid Brianna Beigel was crowned Miss Sam Domestic Violence philanthropy event, day! Houston 2018 by her big sister Chandler fraternities and sororities competed in a Berryhill, who won the title in 2017. volleyball tournament to raise money for Beigel will represent the university in the the Peace At Home Family Shelter. Miss Texas pageant this summer. 4 lota Chi (Middle Tennessee State University) Sisters took their Alpha Chi Omega pride to Walt Disney World. The Lyre Il alphachiomega.org 59 AXO Connect AXS2 5 6 7 5 lota Sigma (Southern Methodist 6 Delta Chi (William Woods University) 7 Alpha Beta (Purdue University) University) New members met their big sisters at The Alpha Beta chapter celebrated The chapter welcomed home its largest William Woods University! its 100th birthday on April 26! A new member class of 64 sisters! Centennial Celebration is planned for September 29 and will include a chapter meeting, brunch and dinner gala. The event will also be a time to share the final tally of the chapter's Centennial Campaign for chapter facility renovations. More information about the event and campaign is available at alphachiomegapurdue.com/centennial. 60 Summer 2018 Il The Lyre 1 I Llove GIFT I Dig 2 alumnae notes 1 Alpha Nu (University of Missouri) and Zeta 2 Beta Zeta Beta (Houston, Texas) 3 Kappa Sigma Kappa (Little Rock, Sigma (Missouri State University) Alumnae The alumnae chapter's lunch bunch Arkansas) Alpha Chi Omegas traveled to Charleston, enjoyed the society of their sisters in In February, sisters visited the Heifer South Carolina, to celebrate the February. Village and Heifer International bachelorette party of Andrea Schlueter Headquarters, where they learned about Donohue (center, AN). the organization's mission, toured the educational exhibits and visited the on-site animals and planting areas. They capped off the day with lunch at the 42 Bar and Table at the Clinton Presidential Center. The Lyre Il alphachiomega.org 61 4 5 6 4 Lambda Omicron Lambda 5 Eta Sigma Eta (Clearwater, Florida) 6 Alpha Gamma (University of New (Ocala, Florida) Sisters gathered for the Eta Sigma Eta Mexico) and Alpha Phi (University of Texas A Hera Day luncheon was held at the holiday party. - Austin) Alumnae house of Judy Mays (E, University of The Alpha Chi connections were endless Nebraska) and included a program about in Mexico this February as former antique postcards led by Bonnie Pike (TI, roommates, new member class sisters, University of Florida). big and little sisters, and mothers and daughters gathered to celebrate the wedding of the son of Renee Hindi Grout (AT). As she reminds us, "Alpha Chi Omega friendships are forever!" 62 Summer 2018 Il The Lyre AXO Connect O xpressbet BROOKES ALL MINE HOLLENDORFER, LLC. 3/11/2018 1 1/16 MILES 1:45.62 $20,160 ROBERTSON OR TODARO. JERRY HOLLENDORFER TRAINER WILLIAM TONGEORGI III JUAN ARRIAGA. 7 9 8 7 Zeta Chi Zeta (Marin County, California) 8 Gamma Pi (University of Tampa) 9 Epsilon Pi Epsilon (Rhode Island) For the 13th consecutive year, sisters Alumnae To celebrate MacDowell Month, the gathered for a day of horse races at Golden Kate Seamands (left) and Kristin Johnson alumnae chapter attended a wine glass Gate Fields in Albany, California. The completed their second Disney Princess painting class, honoring Alpha Chi event is open to all Alpha Chi Omega Half Marathon at Walt Disney World this Omega by adorning the glasses with red alumnae and their guests, and this year's February. carnations. race saw many new attendees from the chapter's recent membership drive. In the photo, sisters pose with a jockey out on the track. The Lyre Il alphachiomega.org 63 AXO Connect ANTONIO Hudson 10 11 000000000000000 000000 0000 00000 000000 09990 @@@@@@@@@@@@@ 3120 12 10 Delta Kappa (Sam Houston State 11 lota Upsilon lota (Williamsburg, Virginia) 12 lota Chi (Middle Tennessee State University) Alumnae The alumnae chapter shared food and fun University) Alumnae Sisters from the 1968-1971 new member at a local Italian restaurant for Alpha Chi Alumnae gathered at the lota Chi chapter classes gathered for a meal in Granbury, Omega Night Out in February, doing good facility for brunch in April. Texas. as well by donating paper, cleaning and personal care items for Avalon Center. 13 14 15 13 Rho Rho (Oklahoma City, Oklahoma) 14 Epsilon Zeta (Auburn University) Alumna 15 Beta Kappa Beta (Dallas, Texas) The alumnae chapter celebrated Nicole Melanie Barstad (center) was one of For their annual holiday event with Harvey (front right, TT, Oklahoma four recipients of the Auburn University Genesis Women's shelter, alumnae chapter City University), who was named the Lifetime Achievement Award, which sisters provided cookies, frosting and Oklahoma City Area Panhellenic's Woman recognizes recipients for outstanding sprinkles for children at the shelter to of the Year for Alpha Chi Omega. achievements in their professional lives, decorate. personal integrity and stature, and service to the university. Barstad was selected for her role as the former president of Women's Health Initiatives for the Medical Devices and Diagnostics sector of Johnson & Johnson, and co-chair of Johnson & Johnson's award winning global Women's Leadership Initiative. Pictured with her are Epsilon Zeta sisters Bonnie Tharp Wilson (left), who is the collegiate chapter's advisor, and Mary McMurtry Winkler, past member of the National Council and current volunteer director of extension. The Lyre Il alphachiomega.org 65 16 18 17 16 New Texas Alumnae 17 50-Year Pins 18 75-Year Pin Sixteen sisters from Gamma Upsilon Three Beta Epsilon (Michigan State At a ceremony that included four (University of Houston) and lota Pi University) sisters received their 50-year generations of family members, Maxine (Houston Baptist University) became pins at the Delta Pi Delta (Naples, Florida) Shelton Smith (BN, University of Utah) alumnae members on April 22. The Hall Hera Day Luncheon: (left to right) Marcia received her 75-year pin on April 1. of Commitment ceremony was hosted by Fink, Zarie Jones and Debbie Armitage. Beta Zeta Beta (Houston, Texas). 66 Summer 2018 Il The Lyre 19 20 19 75 Years of Membership 20 75-Year Pin Joan Mossing Elton (seated third from left, Carolyn Young Treener (BZ, Whitman BT, Miami University) celebrated 75 years College) received her 75-year pin in of membership with the women of Delta March at a ceremony with her family. Her Sigma Delta (St. Petersburg, Florida). daughter noted, "My mother was very honored, and it meant a great deal to her to be present for the ceremony in her honor, to receive the 75-year pin, and to be reminded of the values of Alpha Chi Omega and her college years as a member of the Fraternity." The Lyre Il alphachiomega.org 67 AXO Connect 1 2 reunions 1 Alpha Mu (Indiana University) Downey. "Thank you Alpha Chi Omega! 2 Delta Kappa (Sam Houston State Members of the 1964 Alpha Mu class You can't put a price on this lifelong University) Alumnae gathered for a summer reunion in experience." For this year's annual reunion, sisters 2017 at the chapter house. The ladies from the Delta Kappa 1970s new enjoyed a catered meal by the chapter member classes traveled to Orange Beach chef, compliments of the AM House and Pensacola Beach in Florida. Corporation Board, and honored longtime board member Judy Speer Downey for her dedication and volunteer service to the chapter and the board. A guided tour of the newly created Media School at Indiana University was also on the reunion agenda. "We are Alpha Chi Omega women seeking the heights of friendship and sisterhood for life!" says 68 Summer 2018 Il The Lyre AXQ Connect 35k ANNIVERSARY ALPHA CHI OMEGA ZETA SIGMA WELCOMES OUR ALUMNAE BACK TO THEIR ROOTS 3 1031 3 Alpha Tau (University of New Hampshire) To celebrate Alexis Parker Wallace's (second from right) birthday this past October, chapter sisters in the New England area gathered for dinner, cake and memory sharing. 4 Zeta Sigma (Missouri State University) On April 14, the chapter welcomed nearly 100 women home for a celebration of 35 years. The event included a luncheon, several 25-year pinnings, the Hall of Commitment ceremony and a Hall of Memory ceremony for Kitty Wilkinson (AN, University of Missouri), who was involved with the Zeta Sigma chapter from its 4 founding days. Answers from 1979 crossword puzzle on D inside front cover. BADGE D A S SC 0 D Y S M RUSH T A S y riddles N A E C T The Lyre Il alphachiomega.org 69 AXQ Connect * 1 2 accolades 1 Gamma Zeta (Kansas State University) 2 Gamma lota (University of Florida) Catherine Vandament has been named April Keller Burger (left) received the 2017 the 2018 Armed Forces Insurance Military Passport Acceptance Agent of the Year Spouse of the Year for Fairchild Air Force national award from the Department of Base. She has been an Air Force spouse State. Chosen unanimously from 45,000 for 11 years and stationed at Fairchild Air passport agents, she was recognized for her Force Base for two years. On the base, she commitment to providing quality passport focuses on creating community among acceptance services and her dedication fellow spouses, supporting those who have to effectively and efficiently managing become entrepreneurs, and educating and the Passport Acceptance Program at the advocating for families journeying through Jefferson City, Missouri post office. infertility and adoption. 70 Summer 2018 Il The Lyre AXQ Connect O 3 3 Alpha Delta (University of Cincinnati) Laura Shattuck (not pictured, ZY, Linda Ruschau was selected for the 2018 Loyola University) was recognized twice Hall of Femme by Medical Marketing & for her family law work, as a Lifetime Media. One of only 16 recipients, Ruschau Achievement Award winner from was recognized for her achievements in America's Top 100 Attorneys and again as marketing and communications in the a member of the top 1 percent in her field, biopharma, medical device and agency as designated by America's Most Honored sectors of the healthcare industry, as well Professionals. She is a partner at Parrino as for her work in helping advance women and Shattuck in Westport, Connecticut. leaders. She is the chief client officer for PatientPoint sales and client services teams. Photo courtesy of PatientPoint The Lyre Il alphachiomega.org 71 In Memoriam Tau, Brenau University Alpha Omicron, The Ohio State University Name, Initiation Year, Month and Year of Death Ellinore McDewell Apple, 1944, May 2017 Patricia Wright Cowman, 1946, March 2018 Margaret Fretwell Trail, 1951, February 2018 Chi, Oregon State University Alpha, DePauw University Donna Dodge Inglesby, 1951, September 2017 Alpha Pi, University of North Dakota Nancy Longshore Brest, 1948, March 2018 Joann Marvin Metcalf, 1949, January 2018 Shirley Henderson Bostrom, 1968, March 2018 Donna Maly Odar, 1958, January 2018 Laurice Lafranchise Ochs, 1952, January 2018 Ann Johnson Rote, 1958, December 2014 Patricia Nettleton Rankin, 1956, March 2018 Alpha Sigma, Ohio Wesleyan University Elizabeth Sigrid Nelson, 1944, March 2018 Beta, Albion College Psi, University of Oklahoma Roberta Williams Siegfreid, 1947, March 2018 Elizabeth Long Souder, 1945, February 2018 Dorothy Clark Ashenhurst, 1939, September Phoebe Sears Strahler, 1944, February 2018 2011 Gamma, Northwestern University Marilyn Brock Norman, 1942, February 2018 Alpha Upsilon, The University of Alabama Florence Carre Dewitt, 1943, December 2017 Rene Beasley McCollum, 1984, February 2018 Doris Helm Pilliod, 1944, January 2018 Omega, Washington State University Ethel Elliott Rew, 1942, October 2017 Beatrice Arbogast Stanaway, 1949, October Mary Ellen Hardenbergh Kilgore, 1958, August Mary Cox Wyatt, 1943, December 2016 2017 2017 Virginia Lodge Vracin, 1964, March 2018 Alpha Phi, University of Texas-Austin Delta, Allegheny College Rose Marie Pelphrey Boone, 1943, January 2017 Elizabeth Barlow Wood, 1951, September 2014 Alpha Gamma, University of New Mexico Marilyn Rutherford Coughlen, 1958, January Alpha Chi, Butler University Epsilon, University of Southern California 2018 Barbara Kelly Blare, 1940, January 2018 Marlys Lorraine Marsteller, 1968, December Barbara Davis Gunderson, 1942, January 2016 Jo Ellen Everson Miller, 1944, March 2018 2010 Lois Weeks Nesmith, 1937, April 2013 Myrene Liverett Steele, 1942, March 2018 Eta, Bucknell University Alpha Zeta, Washington University Eleanor Greene Byrnes, 1941, February 2018 Alpha Psi, University of California - Los Angeles Marilyn McKenna Weidman, 1954, November Carole Grobon Johnston, 1955, March 2018 Theta, University of Michigan 2017 Martha Armstrong Connolly, 1948, April 2018 Alpha Omega, Birmingham-Southern College Julia Alyce Suhajda, 2014, March 2018 Alpha Eta, University of Mount Union Sibyl Little Mancha, 1944, February 2018 Mary Rogusky Regula, 1946, April 2018 Kappa, University of Wisconsin Beta Delta, College of William & Mary Louise Whiting Crosby, 1945, January 2018 Alpha Kappa, University of Oregon Mary Baker Flynn, 1943, August 2016 Patricia Harry Bolen, 1951, November 2007 Nancy Bloxsom Witherington, 1953, January Lambda, Syracuse University Juliana Hickman Deatherage, 1946, June 2009 2018 Carolyn Reid Keiper, 1961, December 2015 Lou Ann Harris Dehen, 1946, March 2018 Mary Duffy Getchell, 1943, March 2010 Beta Epsilon, Michigan State University Nu, University of Colorado Boulder Margery Morse Kaseberg, 1934, December Lois Hotte Ryan, 1943, September 2016 Bonnie Kirkberg Van Gundy, 1945, January 2000 Jane Henkel Tabler, 1940, March 2018 2017 Dorothy Casey Mathison, 1948, February 2018 Lori Ann Oliver, 1983, December 2011 Beta Mu, Pennsylvania State University Xi, University of Nebraska Mary Eifler Makdad, 1937, January 2014 Elizabeth Kovanda Warner, 1945, April 2018 Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota Vivian Jacobson Hegg, 1937, February 2006 Beta Nu, University of Utah Omicron, Baker University Rosemary Jarvis McHugh, 1943, April 2017 Marilyn Smith Hicks, 1948, October 2017 Edith Saunders McMillan, 1944, March 2012 Sarah Ellen Neumeyer, 1999, November 2015 Beta Xi, Utah State University Pi, University of California-Berkeley Alpha Mu, Indiana University Barbara Paulson Hatch, 1943, January 2015 Patricia Powers Allen, 1943, April 2016 Janie Affleck Wilhoit, 1958, August 2017 Elita deUrioste Rausch, 1948, December 2017 Beta Rho, American University Alpha Nu, University of Missouri Claudine Pilar Ruiz, 1991, February 2014 Rho, University of Washington Daysie Cornwall Beckett, 1949, April 2018 Constance Smith McCurdy, 1965, January 2018 Beta Sigma, University of Georgia Ellen Tallman Roe, 1947, February 2018 Alpha Xi, University of Montana Mary Ellen Lysak, 1986, April 2018 Clary Kaufman Cory, 1940, April 2018 Sigma, University of Iowa Beta Phi, Bowling Green State University Joan Haiston O'Brien, 1943, October 2016 Marilyn Fleury Purdham, 1958, April 2018 Barbara Mellquist VonRosen, 1943, March 2018 72 Summer 2018 Il The Lyre Beta Chi, Willamette University Jacqueline Chute Aschenbrenner, 1948, February 2018 Mary Zeller Bess, 1958, December 2011 Gamma Delta, University of Denver Carole Barclay Anderson, 1956, December 2017 Gamma Epsilon, Oklahoma State University Sherry Naifeh Abraham-Morrow, 1968, February 2016 Joi Diel Salisbury, 1958, May 2017 Gamma Eta, San Jose State University Darlene Clayton Krato, 1951, January 2018 Gamma Nu, San Diego State University Eleanor Hicks Kidder, 1950, January 2005 Gamma Xi, Western Michigan University Kathleen Bodine Vranich, 1970, February 2018 Gamma Omicron, Marshall University Jo Ann Baisden Scaggs, 1957, February 2018 Gamma Psi, Wichita State University Charlene Mae Taylor, 1958, October 2017 Delta Epsilon, Southeast Missouri State University Vicki Larsen Homfeld, 1971, June 2017 Martha Lauck Wetekamp, 1958, November 2017 Delta Zeta, Central Michigan University Ednah Carr Copenhaver, 1959, April 2018 Delta Kappa, Sam Houston State University Patricia Morgan Eversole, 1963, July 2017 Delta Tau, Minnesota State University - Mankato Barbara Berendts Hansen, 1968, June 2017 Epsilon Phi, Georgia Institute of Technology Kathryn Anne Fuller, 1976, March 2018 Theta Nu, Santa Clara University Elizabeth Sweeney Aguilar, 1988, April 2018 Sixty years after her grandmother's initiation, Erica May Sommerfeld (left) was initiated into the Alpha Chi (Butler University) chapter, making the third generation of Alpha Chi Omegas. Along with the sisterhood, the three also share a love of pageants. (Left to right) Erica May Sommerfeld, her mother Kim Hopkins (center, K, University of Wisconsin) and her grandmother Joanie Helgesen (K). The Lyre Il alphachiomega.org 73 Alpha Chi Omega Fraternity NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION 5939 Castle Creek Parkway North Drive U.S. Postage Indianapolis IN 46250-4343 PAID Bolingbrook, IL alphachiomega.org Permit N. 467 Change Service Requested 2 Alpha Chi Omega FOUNDATION you are alpha Chi Omega. Alpha Chi Omega is more than a sweatshirt. More than a badge. More than a program. More than each of us. We hope you will consider a gift to the Real. Strong. Women. R Fund today. www.alphachiomega.org/donate