THI E THE SERVICE ISSUE yre Real. Strong. Women. Foundation of Distinction Star Challenge : End Meeting Mute Stop Video Security Participants Chat Share Screen Record Reactions Sisterhood IN THE VIRTUAL SPACE OF COVID 19 Alpha Chi Omega SUMMER 2020 REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. VOLUME 122. ISSUE 4. Untold Stories FROM THE HISTORY WEBSITE Alpha Chi Omegas have served their country throughout history. During World War I, sisters traveled overseas with the Red Cross while at home they raised funds to support French children through the Fraternity's Orphan Unit. During World War II, alumnae chapters added a defense chairman to determine how the THE chapter could serve in this time of crisis, such as hosting parties for local soldiers or volunteering with the USO. On the cover of the January 1944 Lyre, LYRE Sergeant Cecilia Merrill (Beta Upsilon, Duke OMEGA University) leads the Women's Army Corps SERGEANT Band, one more way sisters could get involved. CECILIA MERRILL Support on the homefront continued during the Vietnam War. The Alpha Upsilon (The University of Alabama) chapter wrote a 25-foot-long Christmas letter to the patients and staff aboard the USS Sanctuary hospital ship, accompanied by a tape of Christmas carols and Fraternity songs. Operation Desert Storm saw many sisters take ALPHA UPSILON'S direct service roles, such as Tamara Hoover CHRISTMAS Smothers (Zeta Theta, Brown University), who LETTER became the first female surgeon at the Marine Corps Air Station in California and who earned the Navy Achievement Medal. As the military opened more roles to women in recent years, Alpha Chi Omegas have signed up to serve. Captain Elizabeth H. Russell (Zeta Psi, Loyola University New Orleans) was called up to active duty from the CAPTAIN Army Reserve in 2003 and served in Iraq, where she ELIZABETH H. shared how thankful she was "to have an air-conditioned RUSSELL tent, as temperatures reach over 115 degrees daily!" FIND MORE UNTOLD STORIES ON THE ALPHA CHI OMEGA HISTORY WEBSITE. VISIT: #AXOuntold ALPHACHIOMEGA.HISTORYIT.COM SUMMER 2020 VOLUME 122. ISSUE 4. | THE SERVICE ISSUE REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. IN THIS ISSUE OF DISTINCTION 2 LYRES & LETTERS MAR 5 PERSPECTIVES 6 CORNER OFFICE 8 AXO NEWS SAAM, alumnae chapter service and convention cancellation 18 FOUNDATION 26 HOUSING 28 ON CAMPUS 32 COLLEGIATE CORNER Meet two collegiate sisters working in emergency services. 35 LIFE Explore how sisters have come together during the COVID-19 pandemic. 42 INDUSTRY INFO 48 MAKING A DIFFERENCE 50 CAREER OUTLOOK 43 53 VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT These four women were inspired by 54 ARCHIVES their Alpha Chi Omega experience to 56 ALUMNAE INITIATES reach new heights and make change SPOTLIGHT in their communities. Clockwise from 58 BUSINESS top left: Chris MacLaughlin, Ruth 60 ACCOMPLISHED ALUMNA Giachino Zavitsanos, Tracy Embree This sister was the first woman to and Tara Axler serve aboard a U.S. combat ship. 63 AXO CONNECTION & IN MEMORIAM THE LYRE 1 EDITOR'S DESK Everlasting Bond LYRE SPOTTING In the Alpha Chi Omega Dream Cake Ceremony, we hear, "Tonight, as I look around this room, I feel the warmth and glow of my sisters. These are my friends. I can reach out and grasp any of their hands and say, 'This my sister." In March 2020, the world shifted. No longer could we grasp hands with our sisters, let alone stand within 6 feet of each other, as the World Health Organization declared a pandemic as a result of the new coronavirus and COVID-19. Schools closed, events were canceled, Alpha Chi Omega staff was sent home like many others to work remotely. Every day, we were hit with a new change, a new emotion AT 80 YEARS OLD, DIANE LANDER to process. And for just one moment, I LEWALLEN (ALPHA PHI, THE wondered, What does sisterhood look like now? UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN) NOT ONLY HIT THE SLOPES IN That moment was quickly eclipsed by proof that our bonds of BRECKENRIDGE, COLORADO, SHE sisterhood know no physical bounds. In the last few months, I've heard ALSO BROUGHT THE LYRE UP 10,000 FEET SO SHE AND HER DAUGHTER, story upon story of sisterhood - alumnae dropping off supplies for KERRY LEWALLEN SALATINO (ALPHA those who could not leave their homes, collegiate chapters scheduling PHI), COULD TAKE THIS PHOTO! virtual bonding and women across the country checking in on each other, reminding their sisters, "I am here." The connections of real, strong women are everlasting. I've learned to focus on the beauty of sisterhood during this time, which is why our summer issue's theme is "Service." In these pages are stories of sisters who give of themselves to make the world a better place. And while this issue will delve into the impacts of COVID-19, I hope that the stories of your sisters devoting their lives to good can bring you peace and hope in these times of anxiety and fear. I don't know what the future holds, but I do know that one thing will always remain, and that is the sisterhood of Alpha Chi Omega. Lauren Filippini Alpha Chi (Butler University) "NOW I HAVE BEEN ON ALL Editor SEVEN CONTINENTS," SAYS WINN SIKES (GAMMA RHO, TEXAS TECH NOTE: THIS ISSUE WENT TO PRINT IN MAY AND REFLECTS INFORMATION UNIVERSITY) WITH THE LYRE IN REGARDING COVID-19 AND ALPHA CHI OMEGA'S RESPONSE UP TO THAT ANTARCTICA. "IT DOES NOT MEAN POINT. FOR THE LATEST UPDATES REGARDING OUR RESPONSE TO THE THAT I WILL STOP TAKING THE LYRE ON PANDEMIC, VISIT ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG. ADVENTURES!" 2 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Contributors Alpha Chi Omega National President MELISSA MILLER Marine, Pilar owns a web/graphic Angela Costley Harris CALVANO design company and is a professor National Vice Presidents Jari Askins EPSILON PSI in journalism and graphic arts. Mikelle Holt Brady (UNIVERSITY OF She is the website chair for Sigma Jennifer Daurora CALIFORNIA, Sigma (St. Louis, Missouri) and Pi Lynne Biggio Herndon IRVINE) Sigma Pi (Stars & Stripes Military). Jill Sabatino Lacy Melissa lives Page 5 Editor Lauren Filippini in southern MACY GATES Senior Director of Education and California with her husband and Engagement ALPHA CHI two daughters. She has worked as Amy Colvin Mustafa (BUTLER Director of Marketing and a writer and copy editor for more UNIVERSITY) Communications than 20 years. Page 38 Amanda Spice Macy spent JEN DAURORA The Lyre is published quartlerly. her spring DELTA semester as the POSTMASTER: Send address changes (ALLEGHENY marketing and to The Lyre COLLEGE) communications intern at 5939 Castle Creek Parkway N. Dr. Indianapolis, IN 46250-4343 Alpha Chi Omega headquarters. Jen is a longtime She is entering her senior year, Submission Deadlines volunteer, studying strategic communication. Fall issue July 1 currently serving Winter issue - October 1 Page 32 as a national Spring issue - January 1 vice president. This spring, she Summer issue - April 1 SHARON served on the National Panhellenic 317-579-5050 LEASE Council's Disruption to Panhellenic alphachiomega.org GAMMA TAU Operations Task Force to explore editor@alphachiomega.org (OKLAHOMA the impact of COVID-19 on CITY Our Mission sororities. Page 42 Through the Real. Strong. Women. UNIVERSITY) Experience, Alpha Chi Omega cultivates impactful communities PILAR DAVIS A former Peace where women are inspired to IOTA ALPHA Corps volunteer, connect, lead, grow and serve. (ALUMNAE Sharon learned the importance of INITIATES) "giving back and giving forward" FRATERNITY COMMUNICATIONS through her service, a lesson The mother of ASSOCIATION she now uses in giving to the two boys and the Foundation. Page 22 wife of a retired NPC national panhellenic conference STAFF CONTRIBUTORS LINDSAY DAVENPORT (IOTA ALPHA, ALUMNAE INITIATES), OPERATIONS MANAGER LAURA KNOBEL (IOTA ALPHA, ALUMNAE INITIATES), ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF LIFETIME ENGAGEMENT ELIZA PAYNE (DELTA CHI, WILLIAM WOODS UNIVERSITY), HOUSING OPERATIONS COORDINATOR MADELINE PLESAC (ALPHA BETA, PURDUE UNIVERSITY), ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT THE LYRE 3 EDITOR'S DESK Letters to the Editor I just wanted to drop you a quick email to tell you I am writing today to say thank you for the diversity, how great the refreshed Lyre looks; I love the clean equity and inclusion article in the spring 2020 lines and new font. Great job! edition of The Lyre. It was a breath of fresh air. During my time at UC Irvine, I was one of the student MARI-JEAN SIEHL representatives for the University of California (ALPHA OMICRON, THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY) Diversity and Inclusion Panel Many an hour was spent reassuring them (multicultural groups) Loved the new look! Always enjoy getting my copy! that Panhellenic organizations were working to better educate their members and diversify their ERICA BROWN membership. (EPSILON THETA, CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, SACRAMENTO) VIA FACEBOOK I attended Leadership Academy and convention during my tenure as chapter president, and it was It looks amazing. Love the rebrand. disappointing to see how few women looked like me. Now several years later, as I thumb through my copy SHANNON MERRILL of The Lyre and scroll through the official Instagram (KAPPA LAMBDA, UNIVERSITY OF SAN DIEGO) VIA FACEBOOK account, it warms my heart to see SO many Alpha Chi Omega sisters of different backgrounds. It is a tiny but beautiful thing and means SO much to this member. Love seeing our STEM sisters recognized! Thank you for including the article, thank you for the educational initiatives and for growing and changing JENNIFER RIGNEY with the times. It's appreciated. (THETA OMICRON, MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY) VIA FACEBOOK REGARDING THE SPRING 2020 COVER STORY, "ENGINEERING THE MARISSA CHANEL HAMPTON FUTURE OF TECHNOLOGY" (EPSILON PSI, UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, IRVINE) Kudos to professional Alpha Chi Omega employees Peggy Farmer is the amazing, original, real, strong and volunteer efforts combined to produce the woman who first welcomed me into the Alpha Chi latest Alpha Chi Omega magazine, The Lyre, Spring Omega home She continues to be a role model for 2020 and please know how much I appreciated the many, a woman of conviction and personal integrity. revamped design {and] article topics of widespread interest. All in all, a really first-class edition of The AGGIE STEINER (BETA ETA, FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY) Lyre. With widespread thanks to all who made it VIA FACEBOOK REGARDING "TURNING TRAGEDY INTO TRIUMPH" FROM THE SPRING 2020 ISSUE possible. SALLY S. CHADBOURN (BETA ZETA, WHITMAN COLLEGE) Congratulations to Issy Rushton (Theta Upsilon, University of South Carolina) for being elected student body president. The spring 2020 Lyre article, "The Full American Experience," shared Issy's story of moving to America from Australia and the impact Alpha Chi Omega has had on her life. 4 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Threads of Perfect Harmony BY PILAR DAVIS (IOTA ALPHA, ALUMNAE INITIATES) icture it. Okinawa, Japan. Circa 2010. Stationed P with my Marine husband and pregnant with my first child. So, maybe I wasn't quite one of the Golden Girls but at 35 and just finishing PILAR AT CONVENTION FOR HER ALUMNA INITIATION up my graduate degree in journalism, I sure felt like it. Something about the finality of completing my education coupled with the bond my husband and his I immediately sent an email to headquarters asking Marines shared reminded me of some experiences I had about membership and received the most thoughtful neglected while being hyper-focused on my degree. and comprehensive responses. Unfortunately, without a chapter in Okinawa I had to wait until we returned I decided to look into to the States to join. Nearly a year later we returned sororities, but there were and I began my journey as an alumna initiate. My local none in the country alumnae chapter, Sigma Sigma (St. Louis, Missouri), where we were stationed. invited me to events and met me for lunch and dinner. I scoured the listings of They welcomed me as if they'd known me for years. sororities online, learning After months of study and with my second child on the about their different way, I was initiated at the 2012 National Convention in missions and ethos. St. Louis. Alpha Chi Omega leapt out to me as being tailor- I officially joined Sigma Sigma and was one of the made for my interests. founding members of the Pi Sigma Pi virtual military chapter as well. Being a military spouse is a large part A few years before I was born, my aunt had been killed of my life. I wanted to connect with other Alpha Chis by her husband, and as a result, domestic violence who understood the military life experience. The Stars awareness, prevention and treatment were themes & Stripes chapter, as it's affectionately called, helped threaded throughout my life. I had also been in choirs bridge the gap between my sorority life and my life as since before I could remember. I'd even met my a military spouse. We've sent care packages to troops husband in the high school choir. So music, too, had overseas and of course worked to further domestic been a common thread in my life. Alpha Chi Omega violence awareness. Pi Sigma Pi got its charter during seemed to weave those threads together in perfect the 2012 convention, and I got friends who became harmony for me. sisters, my badge and a lifetime of sisterhood around the globe. THE LYRE 5 CORNER OFFICE Part of Our Story In my application to serve as National President, I wrote, "I know from experience that there will be challenges ahead that we cannot even imagine at this BY ANGELA COSTLEY HARRIS time." What an understatement that turned out to be! (ALPHA BETA, PURDUE UNIVERSITY), NATIONAL This will undoubtedly be true for the 2020-22 National PRESIDENT Council as well as they lead Alpha Chi Omega through the challenging biennium ahead. never imagined writing my last Corner Office as I have felt a calling to meet both my service as National I your National President from my home under President and this moment in our organizational a shelter-in-place order due to a pandemic. The history with the best of me. From the moment our little jewelry box that holds the National President's precious Fraternity was entrusted to my leadership, Centennial Badge is sitting open on my desk, where it I have felt a tremendous responsibility to steward has been since I returned on March 8 from what would the organization - its resources, history, present and be my last flight in this future - in a way that brings honor to those who served role. before and provides a sustainable organization to those who will serve our sisterhood in the future. The next day, the Fraternity began to My 32 years of service have taught me many things, a accomplish a staggering few of which have been front and center in the last few amount of decision- months as our board-staff partnership has navigated the making and execution impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. in response to the COVID-19 pandemic - First, because you can't predict the challenges you transitioning our will face in any role, it is important to identify your Real. Strong. Women. leadership intentions and lead to them. From my Experience for collegians first election speech to today, my leadership intentions and alumnae from on-campus and in-person settings have been clear and unequivocal: to virtual ones; shifting our headquarters operation to a remote workforce; canceling dozens of business trips To build an organizational culture of for our paid and volunteer workforce; hosting hundreds collaboration and connection of video and conference calls to support each of our 146 To lead and inspire best practices in generative collegiate chapters, our local house corporations and the governance, decision-making and nonprofit chapter-level employees; canceling the 2020 National board-staff partnership Convention; and realigning priorities and budgets to To establish sustainable systems and structures sustain our Enterprise through this unprecedented to support the ongoing work of the national time. presidency and the National Council To develop board leadership skills of the These have been the most inspiring, heartbreaking national vice presidents and future board months of my 32 years of service to Alpha Chi Omega, leaders which began as chapter president at Purdue University To advance Alpha Chi Omega through in 1988. industry coalitions and relationships 6 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Second, I've learned to internalize Alpha Chi Omega's mission, backstops and Real. Strong. Women. brand. True to our mission, I focused on inspiring members to connect, lead, grow and serve. While I am not able I used our backstops - frequently asking myself, "What choices do we have?" and "How can I be a real, to predict what we or strong woman today?" as we navigated moments, opportunities and challenging decisions. Alpha Chi Omega will Thanks to our brand promise, serving as National face in the future, I know President taught me to shine brightly, be authentic and not hold back. "Real. Strong. Women." is both what we that each of us is better do and who we are, and the opportunity to encourage members to be the best real, strong women they can prepared for whatever those be in every situation was just plain old-fashioned fun. I loved every minute of it. challenges are because being The gift of a limited term of office is that your days in the role are numbered. The days are long and the years a real, strong woman is a are short, and you barely remember the details of your service as you sprint through a marathon of decisions, part of our life story. activities and actions. Through it all, I intended to model being the best real, strong woman I could be and to inspire you to do the same. Having a front row seat to our members embracing and living our brand in their personal, professional and volunteer lives has been awe-inspiring. While I am not able to predict what we or Alpha Chi Omega will face in the future, I know that each of us These leadership intentions hang above my desk, is better prepared for whatever those challenges are along with a quote: "Leadership doesn't give us what because being a real, strong woman is a part of our life we wish for - it gives us what we are called to." I led story. I am grateful beyond words that the extraordinary to and through these words every day, no matter the experience of being the 35th woman to serve as challenge or opportunity. As I said to our collegiate Alpha Chi Omega's National President is part of mine. leaders at the closing session of the 2020 Leadership Academy, in what ended up being my last opportunity Together let us seek the heights. to address members publicly, I chose these leadership intentions because I believe they were what Alpha Chi Loyally, Omega needed most from me. Identify your leadership intentions and lead to them, especially during the most challenging times. THE LYRE 7 b alphachiomega.org/recommend Know someone who would make a great sister? As a member of Alpha Chi Omega, you are our best resource for helping recruit real, strong women into our sisterhood. If you know an outstanding young woman who plans to participate in recruitment on her campus, be sure to take advantage of our convenient online recommendation form to let the chapter know. Visit alphachiomega.org/recommend to create and submit a recruitment recommendation form. While you're there, view our helpful videos, FAQs and other resources to discover what's new with recruitment! A Century of Sisterhood 1920 - 2020 OMEGA Chil FROM 100 YEARS ALPHA ZETA CHAPTER WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY IN ST. LOUIS FOUNDED JUNE 8, 1920 ALPHA ETA CHAPTER UNIVERSITY OF MOUNT UNION FOUNDED JUNE 11, 1920 AXQ NEWS SAAM Goes Virtual CLOTHING Ithough our members usually honor Sexual A NOT Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) with tabling on their campuses and in-person education events throughout April, this year's stay-at- CONSENT home orders and social distancing guidelines did not stop Alpha Chi Omegas from raising awareness. Sisters took to the internet to share messages of support, communicate resources and raise funds. When they had to cancel their spring philanthropy due to campus closure, the women of Epsilon Omicron (Indiana State University) chapter created a virtual bingo event to raise money for their local shelter. The chapter took part in the Foundation's Community Impact Stand With program, which supplied a digital giving website to Survivors Because request donations from their community. Throughout April, 19 collegiate chapters hosted fundraisers through No one Should Stand Alone the CI program, raising an incredible $42,300 for the #DenimDay Alpha Chi Omega Foundation and their local shelters and service providers! On April 29, members raised their (digital) voices on Denim Day. This international awareness day was spurred by a 1998 Italian Supreme Court decision to overturn a rape conviction because the survivor was wearing tight jeans and must have helped her rapist remove them, implying consent. Wearing jeans on Denim Day has become a symbol of protest against flawed and destructive attitudes about sexual assault. Members shared dozens of posts on social media, and the Gamma Tau (Oklahoma City University) chapter fraternity and sorority members can be catalysts for even created a TikTok to spread awareness, showcasing change. 24 sisters proudly wearing their denim in protest and amassing more than 1,000 views in just one week. During April, alumnae joined together for SAAM through virtual opportunities such as the Alumnae In addition, the Harm Reduction Alliance of Alpha Chi Book Club discussion of Know My Name by Chanel Omega, Zeta Tau Alpha, Pi Kappa Phi and Sigma Nu Miller and a webinar with our national partner RAINN shared a digital poster and conversation starter to bring to discuss how to support young survivors. Alpha Chi attention to the need for education on how sexual Omega is proud to support SAAM as part of our violence can show up in campus communities and how national philanthropy of domestic violence awareness. 10 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Brand Resources ince the launch of the new S vision, missions and visual Alpha Chi Omega brand in January 2020, the REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. women of Alpha Chi Omega - and many more in our communities - have expressed how much the new direction resonates with them. As the real, strong women of our Fraternity continue to connect, lead, grow and serve, we're sharing more resources to help you spread the message of Alpha Chi Omega. All of our brand assets - graphics, BRANDED ZOOM BACKGROUNDS patterns, social media images, templates and more - are available SHARE YOUR ALPHA CHI OMEGA PRIDE WITH in our Google Drive. To access it, YOUR CLASSMATES AND COLLEAGUES USING visit alphachiomega.org > Resource OUR ZOOM BACKGROUNDS. Center > Marketing Tools > 2020 Brand Refresh. LOOKING FOR A Check out some of our latest SUMMER TANK TOP WITH THE NEW LYRE OR additions to the Google Drive, A BRANDED GIFT FOR which you can use right now even YOUR LITTLE SISTER from home! WHEN YOU FINALLY GET Alpha Chi Omega TO SEE HER IN PERSON AGAIN? WE'VE SHARED OUR BRAND ASSETS WITH OUR GREEK- Alpha Chi Omega LICENSED VENDORS. A NOTE FOR YOU.. VISIT FINDGREEK.COMI ALPHACHIOMEGA TO EXPLORE APPAREL, JEWELRY AND GIFTS. REMEMBER, THE ALPHA CHI OMEGA LOGO, NAME, GREEK LETTERS AND LYRE ARE REGISTERED TRADEMARKS, AND FILLABLE E-CARDS ONLY LICENSED VENDORS MAY CREATE CONNECTION IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER, SO DOWNLOAD PRODUCTS USING AN E-CARD TO CELEBRATE A RECENT GRADUATE OR REMIND A THOSE ITEMS. SISTER WHY SHE'S A REAL, STRONG WOMAN. THE LYRE 11 AXO NEWS A Sisterhood of Service BY LAURA KNOBEL (IOTA ALPHA, ALUMNAE INITIATES), ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF LIFETIME ENGAGEMENT A S busy women with SO many things we have to do, it can be hard to carve out time for things we want to do, such as volunteering in our communities. Fortunately, the alumnae chapter experience offers opportunities to combine service with sisterhood, and several of our alumnae chapters have found truly unique ways to do SO. MU UPSILON MU (SAVANNAH, GA / LOWCOUNTRY, SC) As part of the requirements to establish or reestablish an alumnae chapter, the group of sisters petitioning must host at least one philanthropic event. Mu Upsilon Mu managed to blow that expectation out of the water BETA BETA when the chapter combined service and philanthropy by volunteering at a local food truck event. been able to provide a custom Build-A-Bear Workshop Six women did a "bar takeover" and served beer and stuffed animal for all the children staying at the shelter. wine. During this time, the sisters informed patrons that proceeds would be going to Safe Shelter, a local For the past several years, the chapter has surpassed domestic violence shelter. Before they were even a its fundraising goal and been able to donate bears and formally recognized chapter, Mu Upsilon Mu sisters had needed supplies to the shelter. After all the fundraising donated over $5,800 to their local shelter while forming and bear building is complete, sisters gather at the bonds with their new alumnae chapter sisters. Win-win! shelter to hand-deliver the teddy bears and host an evening for the kids full of games, coloring and laughter. Chapter members get the joy of seeing the event and its DELTA ETA DELTA benefits through from start to finish. (ARLINGTON, TEXAS) After interacting with the families at SafeHaven Shelter SIGMA TAU SIGMA in March 2013, Delta Eta Delta was inspired to begin (CENTRAL MASSACHUSETTS) a Build-A-Bear Drive to help bring smiles to the faces of the children there. Seven years later the drive is an Apple picking may be a popular fall outing for many, annual Hera Day event. With assistance from family but Sigma Tau Sigma goes above and beyond just a trip members and collegiate members of Epsilon Lambda to the orchard. After gathering as sisters to search for (The University of Texas at Arlington), the chapter has the best apples and enjoying a hayride together, chapter 12 ALPHA CHI OMEGA SIGMA TAU SIGMA incentivized by the inclusion of one free beer from the brewery and a discount code to order food. A raffle featured several thousand dollars' worth of prizes from local sponsors, and additional event sponsors allowed Beta Beta to have no out-of-pocket costs for the event. Sisters shared our philanthropy of domestic violence awareness with more than 70 attendees. All of the proceeds from the event went to the Julian Center shelter, the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation and the chapter - the winning team even generously donated its $100 prize back to the event. DELTA ETA DELTA SIGMA SIGMA members gather at a sister's home to bake large trays of (ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI) apple crisps. Nine years ago, Ashley Loewe-Russo (Alpha Nu, The trays are frozen and brought to WHEAT University of Missouri) and her mother started a Community Connections, a food bank and community golf tournament to benefit Lydia's House, a St. Louis cafe that regularly feeds more than 60 individuals in the women's and children's domestic violence shelter. community. Sisterhood and service in one! Since Ashley's husband passed away four years ago, the event has been called the Whitley Ray Russo Golf Tournament in his memory, and Ashley's best friends BETA BETA and sisters put their energy behind the tournament to (INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA) make it bigger and better than ever. If your chapter is seeking unique fundraising ideas, look Sigma Sigma now sponsors a golf hole and a snack and no further than the events you are already enjoying beverage tent, and sisters volunteer with registration, together. Beta Beta chapter members were gathering the live and silent auctions, and driving golf carts. Since weekly to play trivia together at a local brewery, and 2017, the tournament has raised more than $100,000 when they asked about hosting a charity trivia night, for Lydia's House. It goes to show that sometimes all they were given the event space for free. it takes is one special sister with the right amount of courage and compassion to kick off a tradition of Individual and team entries to the contest were service. THE LYRE 13 2/5 AXO NEWS 2020 National Convention Cancellation OVID-19 has created unprecedented times for our members, C the nation and the world. Due to the pandemic and associated economic impact, the National Council thoughtfully considered what would be in the best interest of Alpha Chi Omega and its members in regards to convention. Keeping the health, safety and well-being of our members, volunteers, delegates, staff and guests as our top priority, the National Council voted unanimously to cancel the 2020 National Convention on-site experience in Baltimore scheduled for June. The cancellation was communicated to all members in March via email. The pandemic has already had, and will continue to have, significant impact on individual members, collegiate and alumnae chapters, local house corporations and the Alpha Chi Omega Enterprise. Alpha Chi Omega recognizes that in times of crisis, we must rally as sisters and make certain our resources are focused on the greatest needs of the organization and members. In its history, Alpha Chi Omega has canceled convention three previous times - once during each World War and once in the midst of the Great Depression. Those were serious times such as we are facing today, and it is difficult to predict how long our world will be impacted by this pandemic. While this news has been incredibly disappointing for many, the National Council is confident in this decision. For those of you for whom our convention is a cherished part of your Alpha Chi Omega experience or who were looking forward to their first gathering, we will miss being with you and celebrating our sisterhood in person. We are confident there will be opportunities to do SO again in the future. WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING OUR SISTERS AT OUR NEXT NATIONAL CONVENTION IN SEATTLE, WASHINGTON ON JULY 8-10, 2022. 14 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Conducting Fraternity Business TIMELINE APRIL 14: DELEGATES WERE INVITED TO CREDENTIAL. very two years, the business of the Fraternity must be E APRIL 21: SLATES OF conducted, regardless of whether a convention occurs. This NOMINEES AND PROPOSED business includes the election of the 2020-22 National AMENDMENTS WERE SHARED Council, the election of the 2020-22 National Nominating WITH ALL MEMBERS. Committee, and the review and vote on proposed amendments to the Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of MAY 17: PETITIONS TO SLATES WERE DUE. Alpha Chi Omega Fraternity, Inc.; The Heritage of Alpha Chi Omega Fraternity; and the Ritual of Alpha Chi Omega. MAY 20: BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION FOR ALL In the event a national convention is canceled, the governing CANDIDATES WAS SHARED documents provide for an alternative method of voting by WITH DELEGATES. mail. In April, those eligible to be voting delegates - presidents MAY 27: CREDENTIAL FORM of collegiate and alumnae chapters in good standing, province WAS DUE. officers, the National Council and Past National Presidents - were asked to credential SO they could cast their votes by mail. JUNE 2-5: CREDENTIALED The slates and proposed amendments were then shared with all DELEGATES RECEIVED THEIR members via email, with additional training available to delegates BALLOT VIA MAIL. to provide education on those items on which they would vote. JUNE 2: DELEGATES TRAINING This information continues to be available on the Alpha Chi WEBINAR WAS HELD. Omega website for all members upon logging in. JUNE 19: BALLOTS ARE DUE TO The first week of June, credentialed delegates were sent a ballot HEADQUARTERS. via mail, with additional follow-up over email. While this Lyre has been whisking through the mail to our sisters, these delegates BY JULY 31: BALLOTS ARE COUNTED AND VERIFIED, AND have been reviewing the candidates and amendments and RESULTS OF THE ELECTIONS either physically mailing or digitally emailing their completed AND AMENDMENTS PROCESS ballots back to headquarters. These ballots will be counted and ARE SHARED WITH ALL verified SO that Alpha Chi Omega may share the results with the MEMBERS. sisterhood before the close of the biennium on July 31, 2020. DETAILS ON ALPHACHIOMEGA. ORG > RESOURCE CENTER > Alpha Chi Omega appreciates the patience and flexibility of our NATIONAL ELECTIONS. YOU members - especially our voting delegates - as we carry out the MUST BE LOGGED IN TO business of the Fraternity during these unprecedented times. Our VIEW THIS MEMBERS-ONLY Fraternity remains strong thanks to the dedication of our sisters. INFORMATION. THE LYRE 15 AXO NEWS Looking Back CHI on Conventions JULY 26-JULY 2, 1922: 16TH CONVENTION BY LINDSAY DAVENPORT IN COLORADO (IOTA ALPHA, OPERATIONS MANAGER) SPRINGS, "Fraternity does not change. It develops. Its COLORADO development is in the living of our ideals, The Special Alpha Chi in the heart that is shielded by the emblem Omega Train (The of sisterhood By faith, hope and love of Special) carried sisters Alpha Chi Omega." from Chicago to - Founder Olive Burnett Clark 1917: CONVENTION Colorado, and a "Baby CANCELED DUE TO WWI Greeks nursery" was 2020 is the fourth time our national "Critical national conditions" offered for women to convention has been canceled, and still our prompted the cancellation, and bring their children. Fraternity remains strong. As we connect the Railroad War Board frowned At this convention, a virtually with sisters now, we pause to look on using transportation for fund for a headquarters back on the times sisters traveled from coast anything outside of war efforts. office was established, to coast to gather, and we recognize the All elected officers continued and an installation fee progress Alpha Chi has made whether we've their service until the next was initiated for new shared sisterhood side by side or from afar. election. chapters. 1885 1890 1900 1910 1920 1930 1940 1950 OCTOBER 15, 1885 FEBRUARY 22- 1921: PROVINCE CONVENTIONS Alpha Chi Omega is 24, 1893: 2ND The national convention was postponed until founded. "CONVENTION" 1922 to "allow the convention fund to catch up with increased railroad rates." Instead, smaller IN ALBION, gatherings were held in Indianapolis, Chicago, MICHIGAN Portland and New York City. The 10 attendees traveled by horse and carriage to make such crucial decisions as allowing 428 THE LYRE OF ALPHA CHI OMEGA chapters to be established at "conservatories of good ANNOUNCEMENTS musical standing as well The 1917 Convention of Alpha Chi Omega was postponed indefinitely because of critical national conditions. A council meeting in the as literary" and selecting Autumn will take care of necessary business in the interim. the first pledge pin. 16 ALPHA CHI OMEGA JUNE 26-JULY 1, JUNE 26-JULY 1, 1960: DIAMOND 1935: GOLDEN JUBILEE IN JUBILEE IN FRENCH LICK, GREENCASTLE, INDIANA 618 attendees traveled INDIANA; WHITE by train, plane, car and SULPHUR SPRINGS, bus to Indiana. Many 2020: WEST VIRGINIA; sisters also attended an CONVENTION WASHINGTON, D.C. excursion to DePauw CANCELED DUE A dedicated train tour - University, which that was finally air- required 14 buses to take TO COVID-19 conditioned! - carried back roads from French PANDEMIC sisters to each of the three Lick to Greencastle. For health, safety and locations, and for the first At convention, the economic reasons, time, sisters were invited constitution was convention was canceled, to travel by plane. With rewritten to divide the and votes on the National 417 attendees, this was growing organization Council, National the first convention body into three fields of Nominating Committee to be filmed as a "moving service: executive, and legislation are being picture." collegiate and alumnae. taken via mail-in ballot. 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 1933: CONVENTION 1945: CONVENTION JUNE 2-5, 2004: CANCELED CANCELED DUE TO 53RD CONVENTION DUE TO GREAT WWII IN ORLANDO, DEPRESSION With travel restrictions in FLORIDA "[There is a] great need place, hosting convention Just the second for economy both to our amid war was viewed as convention for which national and chapter "unpatriotic" Officers attendees could register funds," said National were elected via mail. online, 600 sisters President Ethel Mead Van gathered to "Celebrate Auken (Lambda, Syracuse the Magic" and vote on University) as rationale such business of adding for canceling the collegiate members to gathering two months the National Nominating before it was scheduled to Committee and removing take place. the word "pageant" from the Ritual. THE LYRE 17 FOUNDATION HOW SHOULD I PARTICIPATE IN Star Challenge? START HERE WHAT IS YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH ALPHA CHI OMEGA? I care about Alpha Chi Omega. I am an Alpha Chi Omega. WHAT IS YOUR ARE YOU A...? CONNECTION? I work with Alpha Chis I have family/friends who Collegian Alumna and/or AXO chapters. are Alpha Chis. HOW HAS ALPHA CHI IMPACTED YOUR LIFE? My Alpha Chi sisters are Alpha Chi supports me, my best friends and have and my Real. Strong. been my support system Women. Experience through everything. continues - on and off campus. HONOR THEM WITH A JOIN THE STAR CHALLENGE STAR AT STAR BOOTH. CONVERSATION ON SOCIAL MEDIA AND TAG A SISTER. NO MATTER HOW YOU PARTICIPATE, WE CAN'T WAIT TO REACH FOR THE STARS TOGETHER. Join the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation during Star Challenge this summer. Honor your sisters with a star at Star Booth or support the Real. Strong. Women. Fund. When you give to the Foundation, you help keep Alpha Chi Omega strong for future generations of sisters SO they can experience the power of our sisterhood just like you. HOW HAS ALPHA CHI HAD AN IMPACT ON YOUR LIFE? Alpha Chi Omega is where I met Alpha Chi Omega helped me to real, strong women who became live as the real, strong woman my sisters and best friends. I am today. HOW CONNECTED ARE YOU HOW INVOLVED ARE TO YOUR CHAPTER SISTERS? YOU TODAY? We keep up with letters I'm all in. I support and calls but recently Alpha Chi Omega in any connected on a video way I can because the Incredibly. call to catch up! Fraternity supported me. We get together often, I look foward to in person or virtually. connecting more. I follow Alpha Chi Omega online but would like to spend more time supporting and connecting with other real, strong women. MAKE A GIFT TO THE BECOME A STAR REAL. STRONG. WOMEN ® CHALLENGE CAMPAIGN FUND. AMBASSADOR. VISIT W W.ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG/STARCHALLENGE TO JOIN THE FUN! FOUNDATION Day of THANK-A-HELPER CHALLENGE Caring There are SO many helpers in our lives. During this challenge, sisters thanked all the helpers who have stepped up during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our goal with this challenge was to show #AXOcares. BY MADELINE PLESAC MEMBER ASSISTANCE SPOTLIGHT (ALPHA BETA, PURDUE UNIVERSITY), ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT Many Alpha Chi Omega sisters have been impacted by unemployment and other abrupt and overwhelming A lpha Chi Omega makes a promise to changes. The Member Assistance Spotlight shared empower each member to become the resources available to our sisters through the Alpha Chi best version of herself. Regardless of where Omega Foundation, specifically member assistance and when you first benefitted from the Real. Strong. grants. In addition, numerous sisters generously Women. Experience, it continues providing an ever- supported the Foundation with donations that will growing network that supports you throughout life. directly impact sisters in need. On April 1-2, 2020, the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation MENTOR MINUTE reimagined its Day of Giving into a Day of Caring. Instead of a fundraising campaign, this was a caring We all have Alpha Chi mentors - the sisters who shaped campaign to share our love for Alpha Chi Omega, your experience, who encouraged you to volunteer, creating opportunities for sisters to connect virtually. who stood by your side. During this challenge, sisters thanked a mentor in their life and learned more about Together we: Alpha Chi Omega's signature Women & Wisdom mentoring program. Checked in on countless sisters Thanked all the helpers in our lives SISTERHOOD SOCIAL Supported the Alpha Chi Assistance Fund The final challenge of Day of Caring was our Sisterhood Connected with our mentors and sisters virtually Social! Sisters were challenged to connect with someone virtually. The Foundation team held a special Zoom hangout for this year's campaign ambassadors - a group DAY OF CARING of volunteers who helped with this caring campaign! VIRTUAL CHALLENGES CHECK-IN CHALLENGE During this challenge, sisters checked in on each other to see how they were doing and to let them know someone was thinking of them. Sisters took to social media, texts, calls and postal mail to complete the challenge! 20 ALPHA CHI OMEGA ALPHA CHI OMEGA DAY OF CARING #AXOcares campaign ambassadors, volunteers and some staff having Challenges their sisterhood social! CHECK-IN CHALLENGE THANK-A-HELPER MEMBER ASSISTANCE SPOTLIGHT 5 C MENTOR MINUTE SISTERHOOD SOCIAL #AXOCARES #AXOCARES MEMBER ASSISTANCE GRANT & APPLICATION One of the most meaningful Through the Alpha Chi If you are a sister in need, aspects of membership in Omega Foundation's member please consider applying for Alpha Chi Omega is the assistance grants, we can help a member assistance grant at: comfort of knowing you have sisters in need. Funds for these https://www.alphachiomega. the support of loyal sisters grants come directly from our org/axo-foundation/ through life's unpredictable generous Foundation donors. scholarships-grants/member- moments. assistance-grants/ THE LYRE 21 FOUNDATION DONOR SPOTLIGHT In my program, I traveled to coastal and jungle schools training local teachers how to teach English in all subject areas. As part of my role, I was required to figure A Life Spent out how I would get to each school site, what teaching techniques I would emphasize and how to build teams Serving of mutual support and growth that would continue after my Peace Corps service ended. These experiences helped to create the real, strong woman I am today and helped formulate major aspects of my approach to BY SHARON LEASE service and leadership. (GAMMA TAU, OKLAHOMA CITY UNIVERSITY) While serving in the Peace Corps, I met my now husband, Kenneth Lease, another Peace Corps sk not what your country can do for you, but volunteer. We were married while overseas in an A what you can do for your country." ecumenical wedding. My Malaysian boss acted as my parent in giving me away and, in keeping with his As a young woman graduating from college, I culture, provided an umbrella to be placed over my was truly motivated by this quote from President John head to prevent any undesired developments befalling F. Kennedy. I wanted to represent caring, dedicated, me. We were married in the local Catholic mission hard-working Americans and to help improve the with a reception hosted by the Methodist missionaries education of people who did not have the same in the Catholic Sisters Meeting Hall, with many locals opportunities. puzzled as to why they should toss good rice at us as we departed the reception! Immediately upon graduating from Oklahoma City University, I joined the Peace Corps. My assignment Giving back or giving forward is crucial. It's one of was as a Primary English Medium Systems Supervisor the most important things we can do to help one (PEMSS), and my office was located in the Sareiki another, as it nourishes life and society. I am grateful to District Council Building in Sareiki, Sarawak, Malaysia Alpha Chi Omega for building my foundation that has (Borneo). allowed me to serve others. JOIN SHARON AS A MEMBER OF THE FOUNDATION'S LEADERSHIP CIRCLE. SISTERS IN THIS GIVING SOCIETY SUPPORT THE FOUNDATION WITH ANNUAL GIFTS OF $1,000 OR MORE TO THE REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. FUND. BY JOINING LEADERSHIP CIRCLE, YOU'RE SHAPING THE FUTURE OF OUR FRATERNITY BY HELPING TO UNDERWRITE IMPORTANT PHILANTHROPIC, EDUCATIONAL AND LEADERSHIP INITIATIVES. BECOME A MEMBER OF LEADERSHIP CIRCLE BY MAKING A GIFT AT GIVE.ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG 22 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Cumulative Giving Rolls THE ALPHA CHI OMEGA FOUNDATION IS PLEASED TO HONOR THOSE INDIVIDUALS AND CHAPTERS THAT HAVE REACHED SIGNIFICANT LEVELS OF CUMULATIVE GIVING SINCE THE 2018 NATIONAL CONVENTION. DONOR LISTING AS OF MAY 8, 2020. SEEKING THE HEIGHTS COLLEGIATE CHAPTERS ROLL Gamma Nu, San Diego State University Delta Kappa, Sam Houston State University 1000-$999,999 Zeta Pi, Arizona State University INDIVIDUALS Mary Pat Lambke, Beta Epsilon PRESIDENT'S ROLL ($50,000 - $99,999) - COLLEGIATE CHAPTERS Iota Sigma, Southern Methodist University INDIVIDUALS Jari Askins, Psi ORPHEUS ROLL Ruth Bartlett, Beta Sigma Sally Beam, Alpha Mu* ($250,000 $499,999) Marita Bowden, Beta Lambda INDIVIDUALS Jennifer Butler, Beta Eta Ellie Fox, Psi June Cook, Alpha Mu Marsha Grady, Alpha Upsilon Tristan Donnell, Psi Katharine Irwin, Pi* Cecilia Edwards, Gamma Rho Lark Will, Delta lota Diane Erdman, Kappa Kori Whitener Fellows, Alpha Phi FOUNDERS' ROLL Cassie Gerhardt, Alpha Pi Kristin Himsel, Alpha ($100,000 - $249,999) - Susan McLendon, Gamma Phi INDIVIDUALS Fairy Mills, Beta Sigma Cathy Boragno, Delta Sigma Jane Pefanis, Psi Lynn Bower, Epsilon Kappa Nancy Polimer, Epsilon* Julie Burkhard, Beta Sigma Britain Riley, Beta Eta Sally Callahan, Alpha Lambda Sandy Singleton, Gamma Rho Ginny Duffy, Alpha Zeta* Kaylyn Stauder, Psi Kori Whitener Fellows, Alpha Phi Anne Teaford-Cantor, Alpha Psi Lynn Ford, Psi Janice Townsend, Beta Sigma Lynne Herndon, Alpha Upsilon Taylor Turner, lota Sigma Jill Lacy, Gamma Mu Lynette Wert, Psi Barbara Lynch, Alpha Beta Kandi McCasland, Psi COLLEGIATE CHAPTERS Mereta Spitler, Beta Epsilon* Rho, University of Washington Leisha Womble, Gamma Rho Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota Alpha Chi, Butler University THE LYRE 23 FOUNDATION Beta Epsilon, Michigan State University Patty Russell, Alpha Beta Beta Lambda, University of Arizona Linda Sanford, Beta Eta Beta Psi, Louisiana Tech University Winn Sikes, Gamma Rho Delta Rho, University of Arkansas Leslie Sinyard, Beta Sigma Zeta Sigma, Missouri State University Kaylyn Stauder, Psi Theta Psi, Columbia University Shirley Stone, Beta Epsilon Iota Rho, Loyola University Chicago Melissa Taylor, Alpha Upsilon Kappa Rho, University of North Carolina at Charlotte Lindsay Vise, Omicron Kappa Sigma, The University of Southern Mississippi Maggie Ward, Epsilon Theta Kappa Upsilon, Florida International University Lynette Wert, Psi Bonnie Williams, Beta Eta CARNATION ROLL COLLEGIATE CHAPTERS ($25,000 - $49,999) - Omicron, Baker University INDIVIDUALS Upsilon, Millikin University Mita Bates, Psi Beta Phi, Bowling Green State University Caryn Beck-Dudley, Beta Xi Gamma Zeta, Kansas State University Alexandra Binder, Iota Sigma Gamma Theta, University of Maryland Leslie Block, Theta Tau Delta Tau, Minnesota State University, Mankato Mikelle Brady, Alpha Delta Omega, University of Kentucky Christine Bush, Theta Zeta Tau, Villanova University Kathy Butkiewicz, Alpha Chi Kappa Sigma, The University of Southern Mississippi Heather Carrio, Psi Nicole Costello, Beta Eta MEDALLION ROLL Barb Coussement, Alpha Iota* ($10,000 - $24,999) Jennifer Daurora, Delta Tristin Donnell, Psi INDIVIDUALS Barbara Durrett, Psi Rene' Adee, Gamma Rho JoEllen Eidam, Alpha Beta Christine Ashburn, Beta Eta JoAnn Eisenberg, Iota Alyse Bailey, Psi Elaine Ellertson, Beta Nu Dianne Bauman, Psi Jan Faulkner, Beta Eta Emilie Beagle, Upsilon Sylvia Foster, Beta Eta Alexandra Binder, Iota Sigma Cassie Gerhardt, Alpha Pi Betsy Canfield, Beta Sigma Nancy Harman, Gamma Rho Kathleen Castro, Alpha Psi Julia Harris, Delta Rho Jordan Chambers, Iota Sigma Karin Hotchkiss, Beta Eta Tiffany Chapman, Beta Eta Sherry Hunter, Alpha Beta Norma Chastain, Beta Sigma Katy Madsen, Psi Deborah Chaves, Beta Eta Anne McInnis, Delta Psi Amy Chinouth, Iota Chi Holly Meidl, Beta Sigma Nicole Costello, Beta Eta Leslie Moss, Gamma Rho Elizabeth Donaldson, Alpha Kim Phillips, Alpha Beta Janelle Donaldson, Alpha Pi Barbara Price, Gamma Rho Tristin Donnell, Psi Jensy Richards, Sigma Jean Durling, Beta Tau Brittan Richardson, Iota Sigma Danielle Durocher, Iota Pi 24 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Barbara Durrett, Psi Tammy Powell, Psi Barbara Eaton, Beta Epsilon Helen Puckett, Gamma Rho Beverly Ellis, Psi Susan Pyke, Gamma Xi Virginia Ellis, Beta Sigma Ernie Pyle, Gamma Delta* Abby Elmore, Beta Sigma Susan Rehorn, Zeta Pi Rita Evans, Beta Sigma Brittan Richardson, Iota Sigma Rosie Fairhead, Delta Rho Linda Robinson, Beta Sigma Amanda Finch, Delta Pi Minnie Rodriguez, Iota Sigma Nancy Freeman, Alpha Beta Ann Rogers, Beta Eta Shannon Gallagher-Bolton, Pi Kristine Scoon, Kappa Patty Garrard, Beta Eta Jeannie Shahnasarian, Alpha Beta Camilyn Germann, Beta Sigma Sheri Shoup, Alpha Phi Heidi Grau, Beta Eta Kara Shuror, Epsilon Lambda Alice Hackett, Alpha Beta* Bonnie Smith, Epsilon Zeta Nancy Harman, Gamma Rho Susan Squires, Beta Eta Sandy Harris, Beta Eta Kaylyn Stauder, Psi Marsha Haubelt, Psi Joan Stephans, Alpha Iota Lorraine Hawley, Beta Sigma Karen Stewart, Beta Epsilon Michelle Hays, Iota Sigma Marilyn Taylor, Beta Sigma Amanda Hene, Beta Sigma Claudia Thomas, Beta Eta Tracey Hickey, Beta Sigma Kathleen Wainscott, Gamma Rho Robbie Howard, Beta Sigma Sara Walker, Beta Sigma Stefanie Jackson, Beta Eta Betty Wall, Psi Lisa Jeran, Zeta Upsilon Jill Walton, Beta Sigma Alice Johnson, Beta Rho Suzanne Wester, Beta Eta Christine Kelley, Psi Bonnie Williams, Beta Eta Jan Kendall, Delta Sigma Susan Wilson, Beta Lambda Jane Kenney, Psi Carole Winn, Beta Lambda Kelly Kilgour, Kappa Nu Lynn Wittenburg, Beta Eta Gay Kirby, Psi Linda Yawn, Beta Sigma Angie Kucharski, Gamma Sharon Lease, Gamma Tau COLLEGIATE CHAPTERS Carolyn Lee, Delta Rho Lambda, Syracuse University Shirley LeForge, Delta Theta Gamma Pi, University of Tampa Fran Maddox, Iota Sigma Delta Omega, University of Kentucky Yvette Martinez, Zeta Nu Epsilon Nu, Boise State University Lynn Mathis, Beta Sigma Epsilon Omicron, Indiana State University Patricia Mattingley, Beta Zeta Kappa Phi, Loyola Marymount University Valerie Morrison, Theta Sigma Leslie Moss, Gamma Rho ALUMNAE CHAPTERS Marvy Nankovitch, Alpha Delta* Epsilon Xi Epsilon, Baltimore, MD Glenda Neely, Beta Sigma Iota Lambda Iota, Lake County, IL Frances Pastuszenski, Epsilon Psi Jan Percy, Delta Phi *deceased Kim Phillips, Alpha Beta Lisa Pollina, Gamma Xi THE LYRE 25 Thankful for Community BY ELIZA PAYNE (DELTA CHI, WILLIAM WOODS UNIVERSITY), HOUSING OPERATIONS COORDINATOR n Alpha Chi Omega sister is a woman of experience and work through those important finance A many talents and skills. As sorority women, and operations questions. Pearl Stone Partners oversaw we have truly perfected the art of adapting communication with every chapter-level employee on the fly, no matter what circumstances we face. to discuss their needs and provide directives. And our Whether it is a recruitment decoration to be adjusted, a housing staff worked tirelessly with both National sisterhood event to be changed or an alumnae chapter Housing Corporation (NHC) chapters and local house gathering to be organized, we rise to meet challenges corporations (LHC) to ensure that members understood head on. Never has that skill been more apparent or what move-outs should look like, including rehousing necessary than this spring. members, cleaning facilities and closing houses until schools reopen. The COVID-19 pandemic became our new reality very quickly, bringing unprecedented obstacles, challenges Throughout all of this, what was reinforced repeatedly and tough decisions for everyone. This new page in our was the sense of community found in our sisterhood story came with uncertainty and many questions. But and the feeling of home brought about in our chapter in true Alpha Chi Omega fashion, our members rose to houses. Our facilities are the safe spaces our members the occasion as real, strong women. are drawn to that foster a sense of belonging, of love, of community. During the spring our chapters worked to ensure their members left campus safely and adjusted to a new As collegians, your chapter house is the place where experience. To assist through this time, headquarters you live and grow during your years on campus. As staff connected with every Alpha Chi Omega chapter alumnae, it is the first building you want to see when to develop a new plan for our collegians. Our collegiate you return to campus for a visit. That connection, experience staff helped chapters create a new virtual that feeling of community, is cultivated in the chapter house. In a time when fraternity and sorority life faces a seemingly uphill battle, we need this community more than ever, and we look forward to the time we can VIRTUAL TRAINING welcome sisters back to their campus homes again. OPPORTUNITIES The NHC does not face this challenge alone and wants For those who were planning to attend to extend our deepest gratitude to every collegian, convention in Baltimore on behalf of a local advisor, LHC member, college/university staff member house corporation, please watch for details and Pearl Stone Partners employee who helped and from the NHC about upcoming virtual training supported us this spring to ensure our members stayed opportunities. healthy and safe. Thank you for being part of our community. 26 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Facility Focus SISTERS AT THE GAMMA CHI CHAPTER OF STETSON UNIVERSITY SAW A FURNITURE UPGRADE TO THEIR LIVING ROOM DURING THE SPRING SEMESTER. WE KNOW OUR SISTERS CAN'T WAIT TO RETURN TO THIS SPOT TO STUDY AND RELAX TOGETHER! BEFORE AFTER @@@@@@@@@@@ AXO THE LYRE 27 is ON CAMPUS Preparing to Serve BY LAUREN FILIPPINI (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), EDITOR A college woman has many responsibilities: academics, extracurriculars, campus jobs and her sorority. However, some Alpha Chi Omegas have chosen to add another item to their list: defending the United States. For Vivian Tran (Delta Mu, University of Massachusetts), joining the Air Force ROTC her sophomore year held deep, personal meaning. "I've always felt that military service is the greatest calling a United States citizen could answer," she says. "As a PALMER first-generation American, I am extremely thankful for the sacrifices of those who served before me. Because of those warriors, I am here in the United States today." Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) prepares college students to become officers in the various branches of the U.S. military. Students partake in leadership development, military instruction and physical training, and those enrolled in the program receive scholarships to cover their education, with the expectation to fulfill active duty service at the officer level upon graduation. "I've been blessed with SO many opportunities and experiences during my time in Air Force ROTC. Amongst these many blessings, similar to Alpha Chi Omega, it always comes down to the individuals I meet KARISSA PALMER and the bonds we foster," Vivian adds, pointing to her peers, her instructors and the veterans she visits with by their state government or the federal government to her corps. respond to domestic emergencies and overseas combat missions, among other areas. Another route to military service is through the National Guard. A joint activity of the U.S. Department Karissa Palmer (Gamma Mu, Ball State University) of Defense, the National Guard is made up of swore into the Army National Guard in 2018 when she reserve members of the Army and Air Force. These was a freshman. "Being in the military was something servicemembers hold civilian jobs or attend college that I always considered," Karissa, who has friends and while maintaining military training; they can be called family in the military, explains. "I felt like it's what I 28 ALPHA CHI OMEGA "I am thankful to have sisters who support me and lift me up. Every day I am proud to wear my Army uniform, and every day I am proud to be a real, strong woman." VIVIAN TRAN needed to do." SO far has been basic training. "I've learned that even the smallest details can impact the entire mission," she Jaden Sorbie (Theta Upsilon, University of South says. "Basic training was such a memorable experience Carolina) followed her brother's footsteps to the Air because of the people I met and the friendships that National Guard and enlisted in 2017. In fact, she says, were made." "My dad, brother and grandfather are all pilots, SO aviation has always been a big part of my family's lives." Basic training also provided lessons for Karissa: "I pushed my mind and body further than I ever imagined A highlight of Jaden's time with the National Guard was even capable. I learned how to do SO many things THE LYRE 29 2.5 ON CAMPUS Right alongside these women, as well, are their Alpha Chi Omega sisters. "Our sisters are our greatest asset in the sorority, and it's the same in the military," Vivian explains. "Effective communication, teamwork and building a platform for future success are all attributes that I carry with myself from Alpha Chi Omega to ROTC and hopefully into the professional military." Jaden recalls her sisters' support during her two months at basic training. "While it was definitely challenging at