THE THE EMPOWERMENT ISSUE yre Consultant and Province Officer Teams Day of Giving Recap Shana Orczyk Sissel A REAL. STRONG. WOMAN. OF DISTINCTION Alpha Chi Omega SUMMER 2021 REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. VOLUME 123. ISSUE 4. The Countdown to 300,000 very Alpha Chi Omega knows the story. Our E sisterhood started with seven young women - Anna, Olive, Bertha, Amy, Nellie, Bessie and Estelle - determined to find a place to belong. Since 1885, we've grown into an organization of sisters across the globe, of all backgrounds and experiences, all living as real, strong women. This year, Alpha Chi Omega will reach an incredible milestone: 300,000 initiated members! We're eagerly anticipating our fall initiations that will take us to 100,000 (and beyond) that total. That's 300,000 sisters who have joined together in our Ritual; 300,000 sisters who have made a difference in their communities; 300,000 sisters who have shown the world what it means to live as real, strong women. As we wait to welcome home our new sisters this fall, we look back to see two other women who helped Alpha Chi Omega reach membership milestones. In 1981, Cindy Thatcher was initiated into the Zeta Nu chapter at Texas A&M University, making her CINDY THATCHER, OUR Alpha Chi Omega's 100,000th member. That year, 100,000TH MEMBER college students were singing along to Dolly Parton's "9 to 5," watching the first videos on MTV and following the flight of Space Shuttle Columbia. Just 24 years later, we reached 200,000 initiated members when Jaimie Mazzola joined the Gamma Xi chapter at Western Michigan University in 2005, a year that saw both the tragedy of Hurricane Katrina and the pop culture milestone of the founding of YouTube. JAIMIE MAZZOLA, Our sisterhood continues to grow - and quickly, OUR 200,000TH as we'll welcome our 300,000th member just 16 MEMBER, WITH years later. This future sister is from a class that has THEN-NATIONAL finished high school during the COVID-19 pandemic PRESIDENT DONNA and enjoys time on apps like TikTok, Reddit and CHERECK Goodreads. We don't know yet who this sister is, but we hope you're as excited as we are to welcome her and all our fall new members home! FIND MORE UNTOLD STORIES ON THE ALPHA CHI OMEGA HISTORY WEBSITE. VISIT: #AXOuntald ALPHACHIOMEGA.HISTORYIT.CON SUMMER 2021 VOLUME 123. ISSUE 4. THE EMPOWERMENT ISSUE REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. IN THIS ISSUE 2 LETTERS 4 CORNER OFFICE 5 PERSPECTIVES 6 AXO NEWS Consultants, province officers and convention 18 ARCHIVES 20 AWARDS 22 FOUNDATION 26 HOUSING 30 ON CAMPUS Hear from our new VPs DEI! 33 COLLEGIATE CORNER 36 LIFE 38 CAREER OUTLOOK The importance of mentorship 44 VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT 52 MAKING A DIFFERENCE 45 56 INDUSTRY INFO Meet our 2021 Real. Strong. Women. of 59 ACCOMPLISHED ALUMNAE Distinction - (clockwise from top left) 62 ALUMNA INITIATE Sylvia Miller Foster, Zoila Y. Alvarez SPOTLIGHT Hernández, Martha Watson and 64 AXO CONNECTION AND Shana Orczyk Sissel. IN MEMORIAM COVER PHOTO AND PHOTO OF SHANA ABOVE BY AUSTIN RYDE; PHOTO OF SYLVIA ABOVE BY JOAN JARSEN (IOTA ALPHA, ALUMNAE INITIATES) THE LYRE 1 EDITOR'S DESK Notes to Empower Contributors B ack in my junior year of college, I was serving as DAYLE LANE vice president Ritual and fraternity appreciation, TAU (BRENAU UNIVERSITY) and I was deep in the weeds planning our Initiation A former Alpha Chi Omega Ceremony. My to-do list was pages long, chapter consultant, Dayle and it felt like each time I crossed out a is the assistant director of task, I added three more. I was starting to student involvement at doubt I could make this event happen. Florida Southern College. She shares about her lifelong journey with I still remember with perfect clarity sitting narcolepsy, the support she received from sisters down at my desk one morning with a and the empowerment she found to advocate pen in hand, ready to tackle that to-do for others on page 36. list once again. That's when I noticed a few new tasks. During the night, a sister added some to-do items like "Breathe" and "Remember you're doing a great job and your sisters love you" to my document. To this day, I still STAFF CONTRIBUTORS don't know who that sister was, but I do recall the way her kind notes made me feel: seen, supported and empowered. MADELINE JENKINS, ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT LAURA KNOBEL, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR We all need people who can remind us we are stronger OF LIFETIME ENGAGEMENT than we think and capable of more than we imagine. This "Empowerment" issue of The Lyre has shown me over and over again that those people are Alpha Chi Omegas. I hope you enjoy reading about our empowered sisters, who, in turn, IN THE SPRING ISSUE, empower others. And I hope it inspires you to think about WE ASKED YOU TO SHARE YOUR how the Alpha Chi Omega sisterhood empowers you to seek AXO FURNITURE: the heights. When it comes to my home, there's hardly a room that doesn't have at least one lyre! LAUREN FILIPPINI (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), EDITOR I am always on the lookout for interesting, old pieces and typically donate one or two pieces to our [Beta Zeta Beta] Founders' Day STORIES WORTH BEING TOLD luncheon auction, The Lyre spring 2021 issue was terrific cover to which raises cover. Members' stories were inspiring, informative and very money for worthy of being told. I will read them to my 98-year-old The Women's mother and share with other non-Alpha Chi friends. You Home here in and your staff would get my personal Pulitzer. The qualities Houston. Alpha Chi Omega values in its members were exhibited in all the sisters featured in the articles. Please continue to pursue ~SHARI and publish members' stories. There are many stories out HARMON there waiting to be discovered. ASHKAR (ALPHA BETA, ~SUZANNE PIERCE (ALPHA OMICRON, PURDUE THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY) UNIVERSITY) 2 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Alpha Chi Omega National President Lynne Herndon PAIGE NELSON ANIKA BETA XI (UTAH TSAPATSARIS National Vice Presidents STATE UNIVERSITY) THETA PSI Jari Askins (COLUMBIA Mikelle Holt Brady Paige is from a small Cassie Gerhardt UNIVERSITY) town in Idaho called Jill Sabatino Lacy Mari-jean Oswald Siehl Nezperce and will Not only is be in her fourth year Anika balancing Chief Executive Officer at Utah State University majoring in schoolwork and her chapter Katie Lampinen Gaffin history, anthropology, and law and presidency while living abroad in Senior Director of Education and constitutional studies. She serves as Greece, she's also training with Engagement her chapter's VP RFA. Read about how the Greek national fencing team. Amy Colvin Mustafa Paige discovered her potential through She shares a peek into her life and Director of Marketing and Alpha Chi Omega on page 5. lessons she's learned on page 33. Communications Amanda Spice Editor AMY COLVIN MUSTAFA, SENIOR DIRECTOR OF Lauren Filippini EDUCATION AND ENGAGEMENT ELIZA PAYNE, HOUSING OPERATIONS COORDINATOR The Lyre is published quartlerly. MADISON SMITH, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION AND LEADERSHIP INITIATIVES POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Lyre 5939 Castle Creek Parkway N. Dr. Indianapolis, IN 46250-4343 Hand-painted by our friend Robert The old black-and-white photo [is] Morris of Woodville, Ohio, this of my great-grandmother, Kate Submission Deadlines Fall issue July 1 old window has been recycled, Reed Glover, who was an AXO at Winter issue - October 1 painted and is attached to the side DePauw! It sits in a special cabinet Spring issue - January 1 of our garage. We see our lovely lyre in our home with my beloved copy Summer issue April 1 every day from our family room. of the Symphony. I am SO grateful 317-579-5050 for the sisterhood of AXO, and ~JUDITH Z. PHILLIPS (GAMMA alphachiomega.org it is a joy to have these tangible editor@alphachiomega.org LAMBDA, KENT STATE UNIVERSITY), WHO SHARES A HOME WITH HER reminders of my ties to the sorority Our Mission (BIOLOGICAL AND CHAPTER) SISTER in my home. Through the Real. Strong. Women. JOYCE ROBINSON Experience, Alpha Chi Omega ~SARAH MAXFIELD LEE (ALPHA CHI, cultivates impactful communities BUTLER UNIVERSITY) where women are inspired to connect, lead, grow and serve. FRATERNITY COMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATION NPC national panhellenic conference THE LYRE 3 CORNER OFFICE The Business of Alpha Chi Omega BY KATIE LAMPINEN GAFFIN Stone Partners also experienced layoffs and reductions, (DELTA ZETA, CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY), with 287 positions reduced and 80% of our workforce CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER lost in the spring of 2020. I will admit to many sleepless nights and difficult deliberations as a team while we tried remember in my first year as your chief executive to decide between terrible alternatives in order to sustain I officer, a leader in another women's organization Alpha Chi Omega. Yes, there were also a lot of tears. shared an anecdote with me that has remained with me since. She said, "There are times when it's a business, And I know I'm not alone in the tears and frustrations and there are times when it's a sisterhood." I didn't think from this past year, as each of us as members, sisters, much of it in the short-term, yet as I reflect on all that we parents, partners, daughters and friends also had to have experienced in the last 15 months of the COVID-19 make similar difficult decisions while facing challenging pandemic, this sentiment has circumstances in our own personal lives. never been more true. Sisters, just as you have had to remember to count your In my role, I have seen blessings, SO have I. In reflecting back on the last year and innovation and problem- on the business of Alpha Chi Omega, I would be remiss solving within our staff and in not also recognizing the good that Alpha Chi Omega board teams that rivals any has experienced as a sisterhood. I am forever in awe by professional experiences I how our collegiate sisters have pivoted, adapted and have had. Our ability to be shifted to accommodate the experience - how they have anticipatory, build scenarios made sisterhood work for them, in spite of it all. They and manage change has been strengthened in the last have mastered virtual recruitment and sustained their year for sure. However, even this high level of work and membership rosters by attracting, recruiting and retaining love for our sisterhood aren't always enough, and our sisters and the ties that bind us. They have adapted their management team was forced to make some very difficult programming and service opportunities in creative ways decisions regarding the business of Alpha Chi Omega. I to continue the good work of our mission. recently heard some feedback and disappointment about these decisions. I appreciated the opportunity to hear that Our alumnae sisters and volunteers are no different. Sisters feedback and share some of the context as our staff and have stepped up to create virtual sisterhood opportunities boards supported our overarching strategic priority: to and have increased connections during a time when sustain the Alpha Chi Omega Enterprise. getting together has meant a video chat or a phone call. Our volunteers have leaned into providing a supportive The "business" of Alpha Chi Omega cannot run on environment and have served Alpha Chi Omega with sisterhood alone, and we responded the way most other extra patience and care. The ties that bind us are real and businesses responded to the pandemic's economic impact. everlasting. We reduced operational budgets, froze all expenditures, instituted a salary freeze and reduced our professional staff So this leads me back to where I started this Corner Office by laying off 10 colleagues between April and July 2020. column. Is this a time for the business or a time for the Staff members deployed to facility worksites via Pearl sisterhood? I would say the answer has been both. 4 ALPHA CHI OMEGA PERSPECTIVES Support and Self-Confidence BY PAIGE NELSON women's fraternities. For the first time, women were (BETA XI, UTAH STATE UNIVERSITY) building my self-confidence up and genuinely expressing how excited they were that I was their sister. Alpha Chi R eal. Strong. Women. That is what Alpha Chi is, Omega gave me the confidence to be happy with who I and that's what it will always be, an organization am now. This organization, again and again, gives me tools of independent women who build each other up to continuously better myself emotionally, mentally and and live our Ritual every day. physically. To an outsider, Alpha Chi may be seen through the I joined in a very unique time, in the virtual world during stereotypes of different women's fraternal organizations, the pandemic. I struggled, as many others have, to find the a lens that I looked through for many years. All of my life "why" of staying in Alpha Chi. Was it even worth it to pay I have been torn down by women, most of whom match this money and only have half the experience? All of my the stereotype a sorority woman has. It wasn't until I questions were answered the minute initiation started. I decided to take a chance and go through recruitment fell in love with the Bond of Alpha Chi and later was even that I learned Hollywood has everything wrong about elected to an executive position, as a new active! As vice president Ritual and fraternity appreciation for the Beta Xi chapter, I dove headfirst into our history, doing everything I could to help educate others on Alpha Chi and our Ritual. This is when I realized that I had found my second home. I was and still am surrounded by women who build each other up, hold the same values as me and love our organization just as much. By being surrounded by strong, independent and confident women, I have realized my potential, and I know with my chapter backing me, I can achieve anything my heart desires. Alpha Chi Omega has helped me realize my own potential and gave me a healthier relationship with myself and others. I can walk confidently around Utah State knowing I have 50-plus independent women backing my every step; this is something I haven't experienced before. It motivates me to continue this support for new members in future semesters, to show them all the wonderful things our organization has to offer them. I will forever love Alpha Chi with all my heart because together we will seek the heights. PHOTO BY ILAH HICKMAN (@ILAHHICKMANPHOTO) THE LYRE 5 AXO NEWS WELCOMING OUR 2021-23 Province Officers O n June 1, our province officers MASSACHUSETTS, ALABAMA, LOUISIANA, began their terms, which VERMONT, RHODE MISSISSIPPI, ARKANSAS will continue through May ISLAND, NEW PAC: Beth Ann "Bambi" Reynolds 31, 2023. Our alumnae and collegiate HAMPSHIRE, MAINE (Epsilon Zeta, Auburn University) chapters are supported by these national PAC: Rashmi Khare (Theta PCC: Samantha Cone (Beta Psi, volunteers called province alumnae Omicron, Massachusetts Institute Louisiana Tech University) chairs (PACs) and province collegiate of Technology) chairs (PCCs). These volunteers lead, PCC: Ashlynn Werner (Iota guide and support the alumnae and Omega, Carthage College) GEORGIA, collegiate chapters in their assigned SOUTH CAROLINA geograhic area. PAC: Deirdre Hill (Epsilon Zeta, NEW YORK, The Province Officer Nominating Auburn University) CONNECTICUT Committee, a team of dedicated PCC: Ann DiAntonio (Theta alumnae volunteers, is charged with PAC: Rebecca Jacobs (Kappa Nu, Lambda, Clemson University) reviewing applications and interviewing Carnegie Mellon University) potential candidates for the province PCC: Julie Hall (Theta Psi, officer slate. Alumnae and collegiate Columbia University) NORTH CAROLINA chapter presidents recently voted to PAC: Elizabeth Martin (Gamma approve the slated candidate for their Omicron, Marshall University) province. We are pleased to announce OHIO PCC: Valerie Morrison (Theta your 2021-23 province officers! PAC: Emma Horn (Alpha, Sigma, University of North DePauw University) Florida) To connect with your PAC or PCC, log PCC: Julie Chatzinoff (Theta Tau, in to the Alpha Chi Omega website's Rutgers University) Resource Center and click "Find Your NORTH FLORIDA Volunteer." If you have questions about the role of the PAC or PCC or need PAC: Heidi Hulon (Epsilon Zeta, PENNSYLVANIA, NEW additional support, please reach out Auburn University) JERSEY, DELAWARE to Kim McClure (Gamma Omicron, PCC: Jamie Oliver (Gamma Marshall University), volunteer director PAC: Lauren Lewandowski Theta, University of Maryland) of PACs, at kimmcclure.axo@gmail.com, Hughes (Theta Tau, Rutgers or Corinne Wolffe (Zeta Eta, Bradley University) University), volunteer director of PCCs, PCC: Kathleen Tucker (Gamma NORTH TEXAS at axodpcc@gmail.com. Iota, University of Florida) PAC: Heather Comstock Claybrook (Phi, University of Kansas) MARYLAND, VIRGINIA, PCC: Leslie Moss (Gamma Rho, WASHINGTON, D.C. WEST VIRGINIA Texas Tech University) PAC: Stephanie Knott (Gamma PAC: Jennifer Terry (Zeta Omicron, Marshall University) Lambda, University of Virginia) PCC: Christine Licata-Hoang (Alpha PCC: Manda Bickoff (Gamma Omicron, The Ohio State University) Omicron, Marshall University) 6 ALPHA CHI OMEGA SOUTH FLORIDA MINNESOTA, WISCONSIN, CENTRAL CALIFORNIA NORTH DAKOTA, SOUTH PAC: Samantha Odom (Gamma PAC: Joelle Johnson (Epsilon, DAKOTA Omicron, Marshall University) University of Southern California) PCC: Carolina Anthony (Beta Eta, PAC: Nicole Haase Hensch (Zeta Psi, PCC: Vacant; email axodpcc@gmail. Florida State University) Loyola University New Orleans) com if interested PCC: Mallory Sylvester (Alpha Omega, Birmingham-Southern SOUTH TEXAS College) SOUTH CALIFORNIA, SOUTH NEVADA PAC: Suzanne Cobb (Epsilon, University of Southern California) PAC: Holly Langbein (Theta Pi, PCC: Megan Hershfeld (Epsilon Psi, MISSOURI, University of California, Davis) IOWA University of California, Irvine) PCC: Megan Blackwell (Alpha PAC: Carol Frank (Delta Chi, Kappa, University of Oregon) William Woods University) ILLINOIS PCC: Taylor Dailing (Alpha Nu, PAC: Sasha Williams (Epsilon, University of Missouri) NORTH CALIFORNIA, NORTH NEVADA University of Southern California) PCC: Leah Stein-Fredbeck (Zeta Eta, PAC: Erica Brown (Epsilon Bradley University) ALASKA, HAWAII, IDAHO, Theta, California State University, WASHINGTON, OREGON, Sacramento) MONTANA PCC: Jolie Napier-Vea (lota Tau, INDIANA PAC: Michele Mattoon (Rho, California State University San PAC: Niki McCann (Zeta Sigma, University of Washington) Marcos) Missouri State University) PCC: Colette Livermore (Delta PCC: Elizabeth Kinder (Zeta Eta, Omicron, Portland State Bradley University) University) WHAT DOES A PAC DO? SUPPORTS THE SUCCESS OF ALUMNAE CHAPTERS KENTUCKY, ARIZONA, COLORADO, AND OFFICERS THROUGH NEW MEXICO, WYOMING, COMMUNICATION, GUIDANCE TENNESSEE AND TRAINING UTAH PAC: Deb Dockery (Theta Kappa, HELPS ALUMNAE CHAPTER University of Memphis) PAC: Stephanie Hansen (Pi, LEADERS EXPAND AND PCC: Sarah Back (Gamma Pi, University of California, STRENGTHEN THEIR ALUMNAE Berkeley) CHAPTER EXPERIENCES University of Tampa) PCC: Lizett Ross (Beta Nu, CULTIVATES NEW ALUMNAE CHAPTERS AND VOLUNTEERS University of Utah) FOSTERS LIFETIME ENGAGEMENT MICHIGAN PAC: Amanda Whiffing (Zeta NEBRASKA, WHAT DOES A PCC DO? Omicron, Vanderbilt University) MANAGES THE OVERALL WELL- OKLAHOMA, KANSAS PCC: Stacia Giese (Delta Rho, BEING AND SUCCESS OF University of Arkansas) PAC: Tanya Chiariello (Psi, The COLLEGIATE CHAPTERS University of Oklahoma) RECRUITS, TRAINS AND PCC: Ashley Malone (Gamma Zeta, DEVELOPS CHAPTER ADVISORS Kansas State University) TO SUPPORT CHAPTERS PROVIDES TARGETED SUPPORT TO RESOLVE CHAPTER AND PROVINCE ISSUES COORDINATES RESOURCES TO ENSURE ALPHA CHI OMEGA'S STRENGTH ON A REGIONAL LEVEL AXO NEWS Our Lyre A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE LYRE BADGE 1885 - Members were identified not by a badge Badge but by ribbons. 1897 - As more members purchased lyre badges of unique designs, convention delegates voted that three jewels were required in all badges. O n March 1, 2021, Alpha Chi Omega joined with other sororities in celebrating 1906 - J.F. Newman became the official jeweler. International Badge Day. Started in 1997 by 1910 - Convention delegates restricted the choice the National Panhellenic Conference, this celebration of jewels to pearls and/or diamonds. honors sisterhood and asks women to wear their sorority badges wherever life takes them that day. 1912-15 - J.F. Newman, Wright-Kay & Co. and Our badges remind us of the love we have for our RJF Roehen all had official dies for the badge. organizations and serve as conversation starters to share 1922 - L.G. Balfour became the official jeweler. with others the power of the sorority experience. 1929 - All badges were required to have 22 pearls and/or diamonds. Today, Alpha Chi Omegas can choose from 22 lyre badge options, with additional options available for 1960s - Before now, badges were inscribed certain volunteer roles and even more that have been with each member's name, chapter and year of uniquely designed throughout history. Some members initiation on the back. Through the 1960s and choose to add a guard with the Greek letters of their 1970s, a number was instead engraved on the chapter that attaches to the badge with a chain. You base. may also have seen dangles - representing chapter 1980s - Badges were engraved with a member's officer roles, volunteer roles, scholarship and other initials, making them difficult to trace today. experiences - and additional pins, like our membership 1986 - Burr Patterson and Auld became the milestone pins, worn alongside the badge. official jeweler. Badges can also be set into a ring or necklace, 1995 - Badges could be made with just three making them stunning jewelry pieces to easily diamonds and/or pearls. wear your Alpha Chi pride. No matter the style or 2004 - Herff Jones became the official jeweler. accompaniments, the lyre badge is a beautiful reminder 2017 - The current badge die, a three-pearl badge of the Bond we all share as sisters of Alpha Chi Omega. that is a replica of a 1917 badge, became the standard choice for our newest members. Interested in seeing more badges over the years? Visit alphachiomega.historyit.com for photos of badges in our archives collection. PHOTOS 1. DAPHNE RAMIREZ (TAU, BRENAU UNIVERSITY) DISPLAYED HER BADGE AND OUR COAT OF ARMS ON A RED CARNATION. 2. EVEN ON ITS OWN, THE LYRE BADGE IS BEAUTIFUL, LIKE THIS ONE FROM THE GAMMA XI (WESTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY) CHAPTER. 3. ALYSSA SPELMAN (ZETA OMEGA, WESTERN CAROLINA UNIVERSITY) SHOWED OFF HER BADGE ON CAMPUS. 4. BECCA JACOBS (KAPPA NU, CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY) WORE HER BADGE ALONGSIDE THE NEW MEMBER RIBBONS, NEW MEMBER STICK PIN, A DANGLE, A 10-YEAR MILESTONE PIN AND A LIFE LOYAL PIN. 8 ALPHA CHI OMEGA 2 1 4 6 3 10 5 Good 9 7 8 LEIGH JOHNSON (ALPHA OMICRON, THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY) PROUDLY WORE HER BADGE TO WORK. 5. 6. TRAEGER (ALPHA GAMMA, THE UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO) DISPLAYED HER BADGE, JOINED BY DANGLES REPRESENTING MEILING HER LEADERSHIP ROLES IN THE CHAPTER, AS WELL AS HER NEW MEMBER PIN AND THE CHAPTER PRESIDENT SAVANNAH MATHERLY (ZETA OMEGA, WESTERN CAROLINA UNIVERSITY) CHOSE A RING SETTING FOR HER BADGE. BADGE AND DANGLE. 7. 8. THE CHAPTER PRESIDENT BADGE SHOWN IN THE TOP LEFT IS A REPLICA OF THE BADGE WORN BY FOUNDER BERTHA CUNNINGHAM, WHICH IS THE ONLY FOUNDER'S BADGE KNOWN TO STILL BE IN EXISTENCE. 9. DENISTON DANIELLE RUSSELL (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY) WORE HER BADGE WHILE VACCINATING PATIENTS AS A PHARMACIST. THE LYRE 9 is AXQ NEWS Speak Up About Sexual Violence SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS MONTH: APRIL 2021 T his April as part of Alpha Chi Omega's national philanthropy of domestic violence awareness, THE KAPPA LAMBDA (UNIVERSITY OF SAN our members recognized Sexual Assault DIEGO) CHAPTER HONORED DENIM DAY. Awareness Month (SAAM) through many different avenues to promote the health and safety of others during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, many of our chapters transitioned their events to the virtual environment for the first time, and in 2021, they've strengthened their support for survivors in new and important ways. Some chapters were able to host in-person, socially distanced events to raise awareness on their campuses, such as the Alpha Chi (Butler University) chapter's Take Back the Night event and the Lambda Xi (Augusta University) chapter's Run a Mile in Their Shoes event. Others shared SAAM information via social media and at virtual gatherings, like the How to Support a Friend THE ALPHA CHI (BUTLER UNIVERSITY) CHAPTER Workshop co-hosted by the Delta Mu (University of HOSTED A TAKE BACK THE NIGHT EVENT. Massachusetts) chapter. Across the nation, members showed solidarity with survivors by wearing denim on Denim Day, April 28. Collegiate and alumnae chapters facilitated the "Supporting Survivors" Program with Purpose to have a conversation among their sisters regarding common myths surrounding sexual assault, including who the issue affects. This year's awareness campaign focused on sharing that sexual violence affects individuals of all identities and that sexual assault is never their fault. On the national level, members and Alpha Chi Omega national partner RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest THE UPSILON (MILLIKIN UNIVERSITY) National Network) raised awareness on RAINN Day, CHAPTER RECOGNIZED RAINN DAY. 10 ALPHA CHI OMEGA April 8, by starting conversations about sexual violence with their communities and drawing the RAINN Day symbol on their hands. Through a planning webinar, chapter officers learned how to best support awareness and education Chanel Miller efforts virtually in their communities. WRITER AND ARTIST Additionally, members and friends UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SANTA BARBARA gathered for a webinar to learn about RAINN on Tuesday, April 13. As Alpha Chi Omegas, we continue to stand with and support survivors of sexual assault all year long. THE VIRTUAL KEYNOTE WITH CHANEL MILLER KEYNOTE WITH CHANEL MILLER On April 27, hundreds of members and friends of "Know My Name is an act of Alpha Chi Omega attended the closing virtual keynote reclamation. On every page, for SAAM, "Alpha Chi Omega Presents: A Conversation Miller unflattens herself, with Chanel Miller," introduced by National President returning from Victim or Lynne Herndon and moderated by Chief Executive Emily Doe to Chanel, a beloved Officer Katie Gaffin. daughter and sister. .Know My Name marks the debut of a gifted Chanel's memoir, Know young writer. Miller's words are My Name, was a New York purpose. They are maps. And she Times bestseller and a is a treasure who has prevailed." KNOW winner of multiple awards. MY NAME She was named one of the -JENNIFER WEINER, Forbes 30 Under 30 and a THE NEW YORK TIMES a memor Time Next 100 honoree, CHANEL and was a Glamour Woman of the Year honoree MILLER under her pseudonym C Emily Doe. A During this special I WAS event, Chanel spoke to her experience writing her memoir and becoming a well-known artist with her installation "I was, I am, I will be" shown in the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco. Chanel also shared how her art has not only empowered her to share her story but allowed others around the world to reclaim their stories and power after sexual assault. PHOTO CREDIT: ASIAN ART MUSEUM THE LYRE 11 AXQ NEWS Investing and responsibilities of a board member, nonprofit finances, governance in constructive partnerships, strategic planning, understanding the context in which a nonprofit in Alumnae operates and fundraising. This experience is equipping alumnae with tools to seek the heights in volunteer service in Alpha Chi Omega or other nonprofits meaningful to Leaders them. National President Lynne Herndon (Alpha Upsilon, The SEEKING THE HEIGHTS University of Alabama) shares, "I am proud of Alpha Chi TO BOARD SERVICE Omega's investment in this educational experience. EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE Cultivating future board leaders and investing in alumnae development positions Alpha Chi Omega for a strong BY AMY COLVIN MUSTAFA (BETA PHI, BOWLING future. This is critical training, and truly best-in-class, GREEN STATE UNIVERSITY), SENIOR DIRECTOR benefiting participants both personally and professionally OF EDUCATION AND ENGAGEMENT as they extend their Real. Strong. Women. Experience." I investing in the alumnae experience and cultivating The series is facilitated by Past National President Angela future board members that represent the diversity Costley Harris (Alpha Beta, Purdue University), who is an of the Alpha Chi Omega membership continue accomplished nonprofit board consultant and coach. It to be priorities of the organization. In 2020, Alpha Chi includes virtual meetings with education and discussion, Omega launched the Seeking the Heights to Board exploratory readings, as well as facilitated connections Service Educational Experience for alumnae interested in and relationship-building with participants. Lizett Ross learning about serving on nonprofit governance boards - (Beta Nu, University of Utah) shares, "I have always whether for Alpha Chi Omega or in their communities. admired our National Council and respect the hard Opportunities like this enrich the lives of alumnae as they decisions they have to make. However, as someone whose make the lifetime commitment to accomplish amazing path was not a straight one, I feared I had missed out on things in their lives and in the world around them. opportunities that would help me gain the knowledge to achieve such roles within Alpha Chi Omega or other "I am proud to be a member of an organization that organizations. When I heard about the Seeking the invests in experiences for our alumnae such as the Seeking Heights to Board Service Educational Experience, I was the Heights to Board Service Educational Experience," hesitant to apply. I cried when I received the email that I one participant, Brooke Stites (Kappa Lambda, University had been selected! This program is just one of the many of San Diego), says. "Not only has it been insightful ways Alpha Chi Omega continues to show that they with regards to the expectations and operations of the support their members at all levels and want to help them Alpha Chi Omega Enterprise boards, but it has also grow, learn, prepare for opportunities and be the best provided very helpful learning opportunities and valuable they can be. I have learned SO much about what it takes information to consider when pursuing a leadership role to be a board member and have a deeper appreciation for within any nonprofit organization. This experience is just the hard work our National Council puts in. It's also one of many that has shown me how Alpha Chi Omega been great to learn directly from Angela Costly Harris is invested in my overall success and contributions even (one of the women I most admire) and meet sisters from outside of the organization." across the country!" Twenty-eight participants were selected for the pilot Alpha Chi Omega intends to offer this experience again in experience that kicked off in November. The nine 2021-22. Information will be made available regarding the monthly sessions have included topics such as the roles application process in the fall. 12 ALPHA CHI OMEGA LET'S CONNECT WITH SISTERS together ALPHA CHI OMEGA'S 61 ST NATIONAL CONVENTION Save the date! JULY 8-10,2022 | SEATTLE/BELLEVUE, WASHINGTON Registration details coming soon. AXO NEWS Summer Book Club Picks Have you joined the Alumnae Book Club yet? Created We're excited to share our summer books, a mix of specifically for our literature-loving alumnae, the romance, fantasy and nonfiction. You can also see past online book club is a community for sisters to connect books in the Alumnae section of alphachiomega.org. virtually. Read along with our monthly selections or at your own pace. Discussions are always ongoing in We can't wait to have you join more than 2,200 sisters the Facebook group - search "AXO Alumnae Book in the Alumnae Book Club this summer as we read Club" to join! and discuss together! JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER THE STATIONERY SHOP THE MIDNIGHT LIBRARY BAD BLOOD: SECRETS AND LIES BY MARJAN KAMALI BY MATT HAIG IN A SILICON VALLEY STARTUP BY JOHN CARREYROU As the weather heats up this Ever wonder how your life summer, we'll travel to Tehran, would be if you made one Written by the investigative Iran, where the political turmoil different choice, if you could journalist who broke the story, of the 1950s has also reached peak undo one regret? This novel, this nonfiction book details the temperature. There, teenaged Roya straddling the science fiction rise and fall of Theranos. The finds refuge in her neighborhood and fantasy genres, lets us technology corporation and its stationery shop. Amid the books, into a library at the edge of founder, Elizabeth Holmes, were she meets her first love, Bahman, the universe, filled with books hailed as "the next big thing" and passionate about poetry and that each contain the story of backed by billions of dollars in justice. But the day before their another reality, another life you startup investments. There was wedding, a coup interrupts their could have lived. Nora Seed is just one problem: the technology love story, and Bahman never faced with the chance to trade didn't work. We're excited to bring shows up. More than 60 years later, her life for another. As she this true story to the book club; fate leads Roya back to Bahman for considers reversing some of her follow along as the author retells the chance to ask him why he left life choices, she must decide his investigation into one of the and how he was able to forget her. what makes a life worth living. biggest corporate frauds. [Told] virtually OO: Review -THE WALL STREET 00 Book powerful love The Story of Elizabeth Holmes THE Matt Haig d Theranos INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLING STATIONERY AUTHOR OF How to Stop Time BAD SHOP 00:00:00 New York Times BESTSELLER The MIDNIGHT BLOOD MARJAN LIBRARY Secrets and Lies in a Silicon KAMALL 30 Valley Startup OS John Carreyrou With New Afterword 14 ALPHA CHI OMEGA 2021-22 Chapter Consultants Alpha Chi Omega is thrilled to announce the consultant Focusing on areas including leadership development, team that will serve our collegiate chapters in the next chapter operations and recruitment, these 18 consultants academic year. These sisters will work with each of our will be instrumental in continuing the Real. Strong. 145 chapters, as well as help with the establishment of Women. Experience for our collegiate chapters across several new chapters. the country! FIRST-YEAR CONSULTANTS: BELLA BARNEY ALYSSA FREEMAN KELSEY KOVER ZETA XI (UNIVERSITY OF NORTH ALPHA PHI (THE UNIVERSITY OF LAMBDA (SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY) CAROLINA AT GREENSBORO) TEXAS AT AUSTIN) Kelsey holds a bachelor's degree in Bella held three executive board Alyssa has her degree in public social work from Syracuse University positions in college: VP philanthropy, relations. In addition to serving as and a master's degree in social work VP recruitment and chapter president. VP recruitment information, she from Rutgers University. During She earned degrees in kinesiology chaired her chapter Encouragement her collegiate experience, she served and dance studies, and she's a certified Team, supporting sisters through her chapter as VP new member Pilates teacher. kind notes. education. ALYSSA KRUIZENGA BECCA LAHR GRACE MARTINS DELTA ZETA (CENTRAL MICHIGAN EPSILON KAPPA (CALIFORNIA STATE THETA SIGMA (UNIVERSITY OF UNIVERSITY) UNIVERSITY, FULLERTON) NORTH FLORIDA) While earning her degree in Becca has a degree in childhood and Grace held leadership positions as kinesiology and working as a nurses adolescent development. In addition VP risk management and chapter assistant and NICU nurse technician, to serving as VP new member president, also serving as the Alyssa also served her chapter as VP education during college, she worked morale chair for her campus Dance recruitment and chapter president. as a cast member at Disneyland. Marathon. She earned her degree in communication this year. AXO NEWS BAILEY JO MELO ELLYSSA MORGAN MADISON SCHATZ ALPHA PHI (THE UNIVERSITY OF RHO (UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON) RHO (UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON) TEXAS AT AUSTIN) While earning her undergraduate Madison earned her degree in public Bailey Jo led her chapter as VP degree in mathematics, Ellyssa health and global health along a recruitment and chapter president. taught and tutored middle and pre-medical track. In addition to She earned her degree in sport high school students. She served as serving as chapter president, she management and was named a Tip VP risk management for her was also vice president of standards Scholar and a Houston Livestock chapter. and accountability of her College Show and Rodeo Scholar. Panhellenic. ZAFYRE SEXTON KELBY SULLIVAN KATHERINE TUCKER TAU (BRENAU UNIVERSITY) DELTA PI (UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSE, ALPHA OMEGA (BIRMINGHAM- KNOXVILLE) SOUTHERN COLLEGE) Zafyre earned her fine arts degree in acting. On top of working as a As she worked toward her degree in Katherine has her degree in residence assistant, she served her education (kinesiology), Kelby was psychology. While serving her chapter as VP new member education a peer mentor for a class of first-year chapter as VP public relations and and VP Ritual and fraternity students. She held the position of VP marketing and chapter president, appreciation. chapter relations and standards. she also played Division III soccer! CONSULTANTS 18 15 27 2 BY CHAPTER CHAPTERS EXECUTIVE PANHELLENIC THE CONSULTANTS REPRESENTED BOARD ROLES NUMBERS POSITIONS 16 ALPHA CHI OMEGA SECOND-YEAR CONSULTANTS: SIERRA CAMUTO AUTUMN JORDAN JORDAN MAYNARD BETA ETA (FLORIDA STATE TAU (BRENAU UNIVERSITY) DELTA RHO (UNIVERSITY OF UNIVERSITY) ARKANSAS) After her first year of working with Sierra earned her degree in business chapters over the screen, Autumn is Jordan's first year as a consultant was management and led her collegiate back for another year to put to use a combination of remote support chapter as president. She's looking her experience as VP recruitment and on-the-ground work for our forward to working with more and chapter president. She has a Mississippi State establishment. chapters after her first year of remote degree in health science. She holds a degree in business support. administration and served as VP recruitment. ALYSON VAN WINKLE AVERY WILSON EMILY WIND ZETA SIGMA (MISSOURI STATE SIGMA (UNIVERSITY OF IOWA) ALPHA NU (UNIVERSITY OF UNIVERSITY) MISSOURI) Avery supported our Mississippi State Alyson served as chapter president establishment in person last year, in Emily holds degrees in anthropology during her undergrad as she earned addition to working virtually with and international studies and is a her degree in public relations. She chapters. While earning her degree in former VP chapter relations and looks forward to a second year on marketing, she held the roles of VP standards. After her first year doing the team after supporting chapters chapter relations and standards and remote chapter support, she can't remotely this past year. chapter president, and she served as a wait for year two as a consultant. recruitment counselor. INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT THE CONSULTANT ROLE OVER THE YEARS? FLIP THE PAGE FOR OUR "THEN AND NOW" SERIES! THE LYRE 17 ARCHIVES THEN AND NOW Chapter Consultants 55 FROM THE DECEMBER 1955 LYRE, VOL. 59, NO. 2 Have you ever thought about what Alpha Chi Omega was doing 10, 20, 50 years ago? How have things changed for our members and our Full-Time Fraternity Work! organization? How have they stayed the same? Taken from previous Lyre magazines, the "Then and Now" series Alpha Chi Seeks offers a glimpse into what life was like for Alpha Chi Traveling Secretaries Omegas throughout our history. Charlene Moore, Chi, first to be appointed. For more than 60 years, Alpha Chi Omega is seeking two full-time Alpha Chi Omega traveling secretaries from among this year's to give helpful ideas but can stay long enough graduating seniors, or from among alumnae to see them integrated in the chapter. She is has employed young who have been out of college no longer than young enough to be an understanding friend three years. alumnae to visit, to every girl in the chapter. She can see the Providing travel and living expenses plus guide and educate our a small salary, being a traveling secretary, national picture." collegiate viewpoint as well the Fraternity collegiate chapters. while not a career in itself, would serve as an Already on the job, Charlene has been excellent "starter," especially for a girl whose working particularly on scholarship programs Over the years, they've interests are in the field of guidance or per- and pledge guidance. Usually she can expect to been called "traveling sonnel work; in fact it would be a good pre- stay about a month or six weeks at one chap- requisite to any career in which experience in secretaries," "collegiate shorter as the situation indicates. ter although the period may be longer or working with people is an asset. Those who field consultants" and can qualify will have a chance to travel, to get acquainted with various colleges or universi- Job Requirements! "chapter consultants"; ties, the opportunity to work with college girls, What are the requirements for a traveling they've traveled by plus the satisfaction of being of service to secretary besides being a recent graduate? their Fraternity. plicant must have shown leadership on her Again to quote Mrs. Jones: "A successful ap- train, car and plane - and this year, they've Job Is New This Year own campus, rank high scholastically, have The new job was created at the April '55 a good record of chapter responsibility, have "traveled" via Zoom. Council meeting and the first traveling secre- been well liked in her chapter, be recom- Regardless of name or tary was chosen soon afterwards. She is Char- mended by the dean of women, chapter ad- circumstance, these lene Moore, a June '55 graduate of Oregon viser, province president, and chapter presi- State College. Charlene attended the pre-con- vention Training School (with the province Jones. dent. Applications should be sent to Mrs. women continue to make an immeasurable presidents and district alumnae chairmen), convention itself, and has received special Mortar Board, and Omicron Nu, home eco- Charlene is a member of Phi Kappa Phi, impact on generations training since from Mrs. Kennard Jones, na- nomics honorary. She was first vice president tional collegiate vice president. of Chi, vice president of the junior class at of real, strong women. Oregon State, and national secretary of the What Is a Traveling Secretary college section of the American Home Eco- According to Mrs. Jones, "a traveling secre- nomics Association. She received the Drucilla tary is a counsellor and friend. She can stay Shepard Award for being the senior woman with a chapter for a much longer period than with the highest scholastic average. Charlene visiting officers and therefore is not only able in the traveling secretary field. is well-qualified to be Alpha Chi Omega's first 9 Zoom, have a weird obsession with creating 2021 spreadsheets and have been able to appreciate the work-from-home lifestyle. I have had the amazing opportunity to work and grow alongside the most driven and supportive women. They have taught me the values of friendship and leadership, all while connecting through a screen. I know it's a cliché, but membership in Alpha Chi Omega is more than four years, it is for life, and I am beyond thankful to have served as a While the consultant role is always changing, the 2020-21 chapter consultant. team faced a new challenge: supporting chapters virtually during a pandemic! Two sisters share their experiences as consultants this past year. AUTUMN JORDAN (TAU, BRENAU UNIVERSITY) HOLLY BROWN (DELTA OMICRON, PORTLAND STATE UNIVERSITY) I wake up around 7:30 a.m., grab breakfast and log in. I prepare for my day by checking through emails, My typical day starts with a walk with my two pups, checking my schedule and creating my to-do lists. coffee in hand. I then sit down and dive into helping Throughout the morning, I complete tasks, have chapters in whatever way possible. Some weeks it is coaching calls and check in with chapters. I usually preparing for recruitment or COB; others, it is leading break for lunch with my family and walk the dogs. fun workshops and bonding activities with chapter Then I log back on for my afternoon meetings. After leaders. Some of my favorite visits are the ones where I my meetings, I do any necessary follow-up and prep get to work with women from the complete opposite for tomorrow, then repeat! My favorite virtual visits side of the country. Yes, getting up at 4 a.m. is difficult; have been for recruitment. I love being "DJ AJ" and however, watching my sisters recruit new classes is playing music for our chapters during the rounds and the most rewarding way to start my day. I also have in between parties. Bringing that positive energy and had the opportunity to meet with some chapters being a recruitment hype woman is an experience I will on a weekly basis. I have created more than just forever treasure. working relationships with these women, but lifelong friendships, and have been able to watch them blossom With teamwork and passion, there is nothing we can't into such strong leaders. do! We have found ways to help our chapters through uncertainty and the hard conversations the past year I have learned SO much more about myself and this has brought, and I am SO grateful I have had the organization. I have become a master at navigating opportunity to be a part of that. I have learned that it is OK to be uncomfortable with change at first, but it is important not to let uncertainty or fear of change stop you. This year has been nothing "normal" or traditional, and I am SO proud of the person I have become. I can't thank this organization enough for Avery Wilson Emily pushing me to believe the best and grow through the changes. MOST OF THE 2020-21 CONSULTANT Brown TEAM, WITH HOLLY IN THE CENTER AND AUTUMN IN THE TOP RIGHT THE LYRE 19 AWARDS AXQ Award Winners BY MADISON SMITH (IOTA PSI, ELON UNIVERSITY), ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION AND LEADERSHIP INITIATIVES Alpha Chi Omega is thrilled to recognize the first of our collegiate chapters, we are especially excited to honor 2021 individual award winners! These sisters are making one outstanding advisor here. a difference on their campuses, and we can't wait to see what their lifelong Real. Strong. Women. Experience Stay tuned - more individual award winners will be holds. And while we're thankful for all the fraternity/ announced in the fall Lyre, along with the recipients of sorority advisors who partner with us to support our our collegiate chapter awards! AMY DUBOIS RIETH EMERGING LEADER AWARD This award honors a newly initiated member who has embraced the ideals of Alpha Chi Omega and who has shown great potential to serve her chapter, her campus and her community. ABIGAIL INTERRANTE KAPPA TAU (UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT) Abigail has gotten involved in the community and the chapter by volunteering as a tutor, working in a research lab and joining the executive board as vice president risk management. She has a passionate drive to achieve whatever she sets her mind to, and there is no doubt she will continue to make an impact through her dedication to her studies and leadership roles. ABBY VANDERWALL BETA ETA (FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY) Abby got involved right away as her class representative on the chapter relations and standards board, which led her to joining the executive board as vice president chapter relations and standards. She is a proven leader who continues to expand her horizons by getting involved on campus and committing to her academics. 20 ALPHA CHI OMEGA ESTELLE LEONARD OUTSTANDING SENIOR AWARD This award honors a senior who is actively involved in her chapter, on her campus and in her community; who clearly lives the values of Alpha Chi Omega; and who is the personification of what it means to be a real, strong woman. ISOBEL RUSHTON THETA UPSILON (UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA) Isobel served as chapter president, was the first international student to serve as the university's student body president, founded the largest service organization on campus, and was recognized as the 2020 Greek Woman of the Year, among other accolades. She lives her values as a leader on campus and in Alpha Chi Omega by standing up for what is right, fighting for social justice and acting as a support system for all. She truly embodies what it means to be a real, strong woman. OUTSTANDING FRATERNITY/SORORITY ADVISOR AWARD This award is presented to a campus-based professional advising fraternity and sorority life at an institution with an Alpha Chi Omega chapter. It bonors an individual who supports and mentors the women of Alpha Chi Omega to seek the heights. MEGHAN BULLARD ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF FRATERNITY & SORORITY LIFE PROGRAMS, UNIVERSITY OF IOWA Meghan goes above and beyond her role by consistently checking in with the Sigma chapter and Alpha Chi Omega headquarters staff to ensure communication remains open and a positive working relationship is maintained. Meghan is a supporter and friend to Alpha Chi Omega. THE LYRE 21 FOUNDATION A Day to Empower Sisters CELEBRATING THE friendships and gain opportunities through the sorority FOUNDATION'S FOURTH experience that help us to be leaders, philanthropists DAY OF GIVING and changemakers. As Alpha Chi Omegas, we are real, strong women who come together to create a powerful network of sisters that can and will change the world. BY MADELINE JENKINS (ALPHA BETA, PURDUE UNIVERSITY), ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF This year, the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation held its ADVANCEMENT fourth Day of Giving on April 7-8, 2021 to celebrate the empowered women who make up Alpha Chi Omega - empowered women empower women. It's a E the women who make our sorority experience unique phrase we hear SO often today and one many and the future generations of real, strong women who of us would use to describe our Alpha Chi will grow our sisterhood. Omega experience. We are empowered women and we empower women, but what exactly does this mean? Dollars raised during Day of Giving support the Real. Strong. Women. Fund, which helps to create a The dictionary definition of the word "empower" is "to community of real, strong women who have the tools make (someone) strong and more confident, especially to impact the world. in controlling their life and claiming their rights." How have you been made stronger and more confident by This year's Day of Giving your Alpha Chi Omega experience? Maybe it's the was critical in raising sisters who encouraged you to run for that executive funds to support the Real. board position or the forever friends who stood by your Strong. Women. Experience. side through life's hardest moments. Over the past 12 months, Alpha Chi Omega has There are times in life when you're the sister who needs 85 continued to prioritize help, and other times when you're the sister who can evaluating and enhancing lend that helping hand. As we become empowered, we Foundation-supported share that and, in turn, empower others. As Alpha Chi MINUTES programs to meet the needs Omegas, we empower others through actions. We of today's members. We support survivors of domestic violence, we speak out continued our partnership about the importance of mental health and we build with Ross Szabo, creator of Behind Happy Faces, to up our sisters, inspiring them to seek the heights in develop nine collegiate lessons focused on members' whatever their path may be. emotional well-being; reimagined Women & Wisdom: Alpha Chi Omega's Network of Real, Strong Women Empowered women are strong women; we encourage to create deeper connection among sisters; and pivoted each other, support each other and challenge each other all member programming to a virtual environment, to be the best versions of ourselves. creating new content and learning opportunities. When we joined Alpha Chi Omega, each one of us As you can see, our work is never done, but made a promise to ourselves and to our sisters to live thanks to our donors, we can continue providing empowered. No matter if we've been members for a a transformational experience to our members - few months or 50 years, we continue to grow in our collegians and alumnae. 22 ALPHA CHI OMEGA SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR DAY OF GIVING CHALLENGE DONORS! Emilie Beagle (Upsilon, Millikin University) Jen Bradway (Mu, Simpson College) Kathleen Castro (Alpha Psi, UCLA) Dr. Kori Whitener Fellows (Alpha Phi, The University of Texas at Austin) Marsha Grady (Alpha Upsilon, The University of Alabama) Julia Harris (Delta Rho, University of Arkansas) Annamarie Hellebusch (Zeta Omicron, Vanderbilt University) Janis Rose Hurter (Zeta Omicron, Vanderbilt University) Lynne Herndon (Alpha Upsilon, The University of Alabama) Kristin Koppen (Delta Chi, William Woods DAY OF GIVING University) BY THE NUMBERS Jessica Lahey (Gamma Zeta, Kansas State University) 1 DAY, 8 HOURS AND 85 Maree Magliocchetti (Alpha Tau, University MINUTES OF of New Hampshire) #AXOEMPOWER Maxine Mazur (Alpha Tau, University of New Hampshire) RAISED MORE THAN $220,000 FOR THE MerLynn Pitcher (Beta Xi, Utah State REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. FUND University) Susan Rehorn (Zeta Pi, Arizona State University) 920 UNIQUE DONORS Sheri Shoup (Alpha Phi, The University of Texas at Austin) MORE THAN 150 NEW DONORS Karen Stewart (Beta Epsilon, Michigan State University) 111 An anonymous donor CAMPAIGN AMBASSADORS luddle #2 0 here Cassie CAMPAIGN AMBASSADORS GATHERING FOR A HERA HUDDLE DURING DAY OF GIVING TO GET AN UPDATE AND SHARE SISTERHOOD FOUNDATION Sustaining Alpha Chi Omega THE IMPACT OF BEING A FOUNDATION PARTNER very Alpha Chi Omega has her own story of Strong. Women. Experience. One of the easiest and E how sisterhood helped her become the real, most impactful ways to sustain the future of Alpha Chi strong woman she is today. You may reflect Omega as a donor is through Foundation Partners. on the lifelong friendships you've found or perhaps the opportunities to connect, lead, grow and serve. Foundation Partners is Alpha Chi Omega's recognition No matter what your Alpha Chi Omega story is, we program honoring donors who make monthly recurring hope you agree that sustaining the Alpha Chi Omega gifts to the Real. Strong. Women. Fund. When you join experience for the next generation of real, strong Foundation Partners, you join a special community of women is important. donors who play a key and consistent role in helping to make an impact on our sisterhood. Recurring gifts are There are many ways for sisters to give back to the backbone of the Foundation, helping ensure we can Alpha Chi Omega. Some choose to give their time plan for and depend on a steady stream of support to as volunteers, some choose to engage in mentor sustain the life-changing work of the Foundation and relationships through the Women & Wisdom program, Fraternity. while others choose to give back as donors to the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation. All are important - and With your support, we're able to prepare confident you don't have to choose only one! leaders and changemakers through the Real. Strong. Women. Experience - providing women with the When donors support the Foundation, they are skills and conviction to effect positive change on their advancing Alpha Chi Omega. Gifts to the Foundation campuses and in their communities. ensure sustainability of our programs and the Real. GIVING MONTHLY HELPS ALPHA CHI OMEGA PLAN AHEAD. WE COUNT ON YOUR DONATIONS TO MAKE A MONTHLY IMPACT. $25/mo. Help Alpha Chi Omega connect + AUD $50/mo. members through Women & Wisdom and Help Alpha Chi Omega bring your chapter networking events. president to Leadership Academy. $100/mo. Help Alpha Chi Omega support DVA and healthy relationships by providing programming to more than 19,000 collegiate members. 10/month X 235,000 members 24 ALPHACHI OMEGA FOUNDATION the power of what we can do as an organization. PARTNER & A Monthly gifts are great for Alpha Chi Omega because they allow us to plan. We know what is coming and WITH CHIEF how we can help fund programs and initiatives that are DEVELOPMENT being planned by the Fraternity. These gifts really help OFFICER MARSHA to sustain the Alpha Chi Omega experience. GRADY WHERE WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE THIS HOW DID FOUNDATION PARTNERS PROGRAM GO IN THE FUTURE? START? We're always looking to grow our Foundation Partners program! This is a great way for sisters who are busy to Foundation Partners started in 2016 to recognize give back. It's similar to a Netflix subscription where donors who were supporting the Real. Strong. Women. you set it up and forget about it but get lots of benefits! Fund with recurring monthly gifts. We started with 150 In addition to growing Foundation Partners, we have Foundation Partners and have grown the program to many sisters who join Foundation Partners to reach more than 220 donors! Leadership Circle, our giving recognition program for sisters who give $1,000 or more to the Real. Strong. WHO SHOULD JOIN FOUNDATION Women. Fund each year. I would love to see more PARTNERS? sisters use Foundation Partners as a way to increase Anyone! The Foundation is grateful to have sisters and their annual giving as they are able. friends of Alpha Chi Omega as part of Foundation Partners. Anyone who makes an automated monthly WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO gift to the Real. Strong. Women. Fund is recognized as SISTERS LOOKING TO GIVE BACK? part of this group! Throughout the year, Foundation Partners receive special updates about the impact they It's never too early to start! There are many ways to give are making and access to invitation-only events hosted back to Alpha Chi Omega. I started giving annually to by the Foundation. the Foundation in small amounts and, as I was able, started to increase my giving over time. You can support the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation or give back your WHAT IS THE MONTHLY IMPACT OF time as a volunteer. However you choose to give back, FOUNDATION PARTNERS? I encourage you to start now! As a lifelong donor and Our Foundation Partners make a huge impact each volunteer, I've always benefited from my involvement month. We have donors who give at all dollar levels, and in Alpha Chi Omega! when you combine all their gifts together, it truly shows REAL, STRONG WOMEN SUPPORTING REAL, STRONG WOMEN: THIS IS THE CORE OF WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE DO. Become Foundation Partner BY SETTING UP A MONTHLY GIFT! VISIT GIVE.ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG/F OR USE THIS QR CODE TO ACCESS OUR SPECIAL FOUNDATION PARTNER GIVING PAGE. = $28.2 million annually THE LYRE 25 HOUSING Home Sweet Home for Beta Sigma BY ELIZA PAYNE (DELTA CHI, WILLIAM WOODS takes a lot of teamwork to complete. In addition to the UNIVERSITY), HOUSING OPERATIONS architect, general contractor and interior designers, COORDINATOR the NHC also partnered with chapter leadership and advisors throughout the project. T he Beta Sigma chapter was founded in 1938 at the University of Georgia, and when the The project was greatly supported by The Campaign for chapter house at 1064 S. Lumpkin transferred 1064 S. Lumpkin, chaired by Julie Cain Burkhard, a Beta to the National Housing Corporation (NHC) during the Sigma alumna and Past National President. Through 2010-11 fiscal year, it was determined that in addition the generosity of alumnae and friends, the campaign to routine maintenance needs, there was an eventual surpassed its goal of $1 million! Julie shared the need for more beds, larger common areas and a chapter following feelings after the completion of the campaign: room to fit the growing membership. At the beginning of the 2020-21 academic year, the NHC completed its "Overwhelmed with the level of engagement and 15-month renovation of the Beta Sigma chapter facility, commitment we've seen from Beta Sigma alumnae. Their and members were able to move back into the house this generosity and commitment to this project has been over the past October. The renovation included an addition to the top. original facility and a complete overhaul to the interior. When members returned, the facility was essentially Proud of the professional way in which the NHC staff brand new! managed this project. Lines of communication were always open, transparency was the norm, love of this chapter and The groundwork for this type of large-scale renovation this property always evident. is laid up to several years prior to construction and Thankful to the NHC board and National Council who gave us the green light and made this long overdue renovation and addition the priority needed. Their leadership and wisdom led the way. XOXO Grateful that the next 50 years of 1064 S. Lumpkin Street are secure with safety, technology, functionality, space, beauty and the spirit of Alpha Chi Omega throughout." With all the great work from these teams, Beta Sigma chapter members can enjoy a beautiful space for many years to come! BUILT-IN BEDS ARE A UNIQUE FEATURE IN THE CHAPTER FACILITY. THE NUMBER OF BEDS MAY VARY IN EACH ROOM, BUT IT'S CLEAR THAT SISTERS ARE LOVING THEIR NEW SPACES! THE BETA SIGMA FACILITY GOT AN ADDITION ON THE FAR LEFT AXO SIDE, WHICH PERFECTLY MATCHES THE ORIGINAL HOUSE! 2115 AXQ BETA SIGMA THE ENTRYWAY TILE IN THE BETA SIGMA FACILITY THIS NEWLY RENOVATED ROOM IN THE CHAPTER HOUSE IS FEATURES A BEAUTIFUL INLAY OF THE ALPHA CHI DECORATED IN A UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA THEME. IT'S A FUN OMEGA LETTERS, LYRE AND CHAPTER NAME. SPACE FOR SISTERS TO SHOWCASE THEIR UGA PRIDE! THE EXPANDED DINING ROOM ALLOWS MEMBERS TO GATHER, HOST EVENTS AND HAVE CHAPTER MEALS. A 24-HOUR SISTERS KITCHEN AND SERVERY WERE COMMON AREAS IN THE FACILITY PROVIDE ROOM FOR SISTERS TO ALSO ADDED. STUDY, HOST MEETINGS AND CONNECT WITH EACH OTHER. THE LYRE 27 HOUSING NHC Vendor Spotlight he NHC T their college years. We have done our job best when the partners house is not the focal point for those years but, instead, with becomes the setting for their best college memories. vendors on housing projects WHAT DOES EMPOWERMENT MEAN big and small, TO YOU? from one-room updates all the Empowerment means feeling fully equipped to tackle way to brand new whatever task or challenge you are facing. By fully facilities. One equipped, I mean feeling supported by those around NHC partner is you, along with knowing that you possess the mental, PDR Interiors, emotional and sometimes physical strength to achieve an all-women your goal. interior design company led by WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE PART OF interior designer and owner Liz Toombs. WORKING ON AN ALPHA CHI OMEGA HOUSE? WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A CAREER IN INTERIOR DECORATING? Can I have two favorite parts? 1. Seeing the women's faces when they walk into their new space. I love seeing A couple specific things stand out to me as my the joy that results from the work and planning my inspiration. I was very close with all of my grandparents team has put in. 2. Collaborating with the housing team growing up, specifically my dad's dad. He was a Realtor at headquarters and the students involved in the project when I was a kid, SO I got to experience a variety decision-making. Connecting with the people involved of homes through his work. Seeing the different in that process is what makes the work worthwhile. architectural styles and the way people decorated their homes sparked my interest in this field. Then in college, I was watching Trading Spaces in my sorority house's TV room. On the show, Vern Yip updated a sorority house, and I was amazed that someone could do that as a profession. The seeds were planted in my brain at that point. CAN YOU EXPLAIN A BIT ABOUT PDR'S MISSION? Our mission is to create a space for clients that serves as the backdrop to their lives. We exist to make sure that backdrop reflects them and effectively meets their daily PDR DESIGNED THIS COMMON SPACE AT THE GAMMA needs SO they can enjoy the important things in life. THETA (UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND) CHAPTER FACILITY For sorority clients, the house is a prominent part of IN 2019. 28 ALPHA CHI OMEGA AXQ Shop ALPHA CH alpha APPAREL ALPHACHI UMEGA GIFTS AX2 JEWELRY Remember A PORTION OF EACH SALE SUPPORTS ALPHA CHI OMEGA! Vice President Diversity, Equity and Inclusion LEARN ABOUT THIS NEW COLLEGIATE EXECUTIVE BOARD POSITION FROM OUR OFFICERS THEMSELVES! Matter movement. I wanted to be able to help my T his January, all collegiate chapter executive boards saw the addition of our newest amazing sisters utilize their information and be able officer role: vice president diversity, equity lead a more inclusive lifestyle after they graduate. and inclusion (VP DEI). These sisters are working to promote a positive, diverse and inclusive chapter Ruth: I wanted to start the change I wanted to see. environment through education, programming, policy The year before headquarters announced that every and best practice. Alpha Chi chapter would soon have a VP DEI, I started the Diversity and Inclusion Committee here at We asked a few of our new VPs DEI to tell us about Alpha Nu. When the opportunity came to shift this their role SO far and how the work they are doing committee to an executive position, I was thrilled at the is impacting their chapter and campus community. chance to serve Alpha Nu as a VP and give DEI even Thanks to the following sisters for sharing: greater reach in our chapter and on Mizzou's campus. Olivia Arjona (Nu, University of Colorado Boulder) Farah: I believe that there is always room for Ruth Chi (Alpha Nu, University of Missouri) improvement; you can never do enough. As a minority Farah Issa (Theta Omega, Marquette University) (I identify as an ethnically mixed person: Hispanic and Hollis Marcinek (Gamma Rho, Texas Tech University) Middle Eastern), topics of DEI are important to me since I have experienced these issues firsthand. I wanted Editor's Note: Identities included in this story were shared to be able to educate my sisters and make my present openly by our sisters. and future minority sisters feel that this is a space they are welcomed in. WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO RUN FOR VICE PRESIDENT DIVERSITY, Hollis: I chose to run for the VP diversity, equity and inclusion position because those three words that EQUITY AND INCLUSION? make up the name itself mean a great deal to me. I've Olivia: I decided to run for the DEI role because it was always been very vocal in my sorority, particularly an opportunity to have a platform as a queer Latina about matters like LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, sorority member, who struggles with anxiety, depression transgender, queer/questioning) representation, as I'm and PTSD, in a predominantly white chapter and a member of the community myself. There continues university as a whole. A lot of our members wanted to to be stereotypes and bias when it comes to sororities, become better allies and weren't entirely sure what to and I wanted to make us stand out from those opinions do with all the new information they learned during people may have. I want to create a welcoming the summer of 2020 in the wake of the Black Lives environment for all women. 30 ALPHA CHI OMEGA WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR GOALS Hollis: Some of my goals that I created for myself in this FOR YOUR OFFICER ROLE? role were to show more diversity on our social media, set up a volunteer committee during recruitment Olivia: Some of my goals this term are to get that can help us identify and eliminate bias we might information out in a digestible way and share both encounter, create a resource handbook available to all passive and active forms of activism with our sisters to women in the sorority and collect opinions from our facilitate growth and encourage them in the continuous members about where we stand DEI-wise. work of education and activism on their own. I want to encourage these conversations to be more natural WHAT INITIATIVES OR PROGRAMS and help bring awareness to as many topics as I can HAVE YOU STARTED OR PLANNED? while making everyone comfortable with being uncomfortable. Olivia: I am in the process of making affinity groups for our chapter. As a mega chapter, it's hard to get to Ruth: My initial goal at the Alpha Nu chapter was know sisters, especially given online school. I hope these simply to foster a welcoming environment for sisters groups can help sisters feel more connected within our of various backgrounds and experiences. But when chapter and be useful to their studies. that goal is deconstructed and put into action as we have found, it means SO much more and goes SO much Ruth: We are working on weaving DEI programming deeper. We want to implement tangible objectives into the bylaws, ultimately placing the need for diversity toward improving diversity and inclusion in our at the core of our sisterhood. Another area we are chapter, and I believe that starts with education. addressing is recruitment and the implicit biases that might affect our recruitment. Another goal for DEI Farah: Some of my goals for my officer role include in our chapter is action. We are celebrating identities creating a safe space for these hard discussions and to and cultures and advocating for minority groups with get to know our fellow sisters on a deeper level. In order funding and events. to understand why diversity, equity and inclusion are important, we need to first acknowledge our sisters' Farah: One of the initiatives I have started in my identities and appreciate those differences. chapter is DEI hours. Similar to DVA hours, I have OLIVIA ARJONA RUTH CHI FARAH ISSA HOLLIS MARCINEK THE LYRE 31 ON CAMPUS required that every member complete a certain number chapter to take action alongside me - that is ultimately of hours for the semester. To accomplish these hours, what drives me to continue advocating for DEI in my I have given members opportunities to participate community! in other events hosted by the university or by the multicultural fraternities and sororities. I also plan to Farah: DEI work is important to me because I want host film nights to create discussion and expose our to strive to make Alpha Chi Omega a sisterhood that sisters to different perspectives. reaches for higher understanding, education and inclusivity for our BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and Hollis: The one I'm most proud of is the DEI resource People of Color) and LGBTQ+ current and future sisters. handbook I made at the beginning of the year that DEI is important SO we can actively do better for our is accessible to every member in the chapter. It has sisters and our community. An organization/group can information over the eight social identities - race, only succeed when its members include a wide range of religion, ethnicity, sexuality, gender, ability, age, diversity. socioeconomic status - and includes things like definitions, examples, do's and don'ts, holidays, crisis Hollis: DEI work is important to me because everyone hotline numbers and additional resource links. deserves to be recognized and valued. There are SO many women who go through recruitment looking for WHY IS DEI WORK IMPORTANT FOR YOU, a place to call home, a place where they feel they can be YOUR CHAPTER, ALPHA CHI OMEGA their genuine self. DEI encourages women to come as they are without fear they'll have to hide themselves or AND/OR THE SORORITY COMMUNITY AT become something they're not. It's SO important that LARGE? the sorority community at large takes DEI seriously Olivia: I want to be able to help the 300+ women in our because we all have the amazing opportunity to chapter be able to stand up for themselves, each other understand the importance of multiple identities, the and others in the sorority community as well as the differences between women that should be honored human community at large. I want the women at Nu and the environment we could create that celebrates chapter to truly grow into real, strong women and not who each woman is. just because they are in this sorority. It will be because they have learned to become more empathetic, inclusive women that are going to pave what the future is, not just run in tracks paved before them. "Alpha Chi is a space through Ruth: We live in a world made up of a variety of identities that go deep and wide. To me, this is one of which I have found acceptance, the most beautiful blessings humanity has been given. Sadly, we also live in a society that tends to undervalue visibility and a sense of some experiences and normalize others. Being an immigrant, Black and a woman, I have experienced security. When I graduate, I the effects of this marginalization. Alpha Chi is a space want to leave my chapter and through which I have found acceptance, visibility and a sense of security. When I graduate, I want to leave campus a more inclusive space my chapter and campus a more inclusive space than when I found it, and I recognize that I cannot do that than when I found it." alone, SO I want to educate and spur women in my 32 ALPHA CHI OMEGA COLLEGIATE CORNER Messages from a Multinational Machine SHARING MY EXPERIENCE fencing world - but AS A FULL-TIME STUDENT, I take the "Party in the USA" all FENCER AND CHAPTER the way to Europe. PRESIDENT - ALL FROM Since obtaining ABROAD IN GREECE dual citizenship my freshman year of high school, I've lived a BY ANIKA TSAPATSARIS double life, fencing (THETA PSI, COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY) both for Greece and as captain of launch Meeting. Open. Connecting. Join with Columbia University's L Computer Audio. Test Speaker and Microphone. fencing team. In America, I'm "the Greek," and in Participants. Invite. Copy Invitation. Admit All. Greece, I'm "the American," but both are home; I'm Start Video. Unmute. "Can you all see my screen?" simultaneously a foreigner and a regular. But it's not all beaches and baklava; since ninth grade, I have traveled This past year, I've shared enough screens to fill 15 to Greece roughly five times per academic year to NASA mission control centers, made my desk a dinner maintain my ranking required for the Greek National table and worn fuzzy Christmas socks to each class Fencing Team. lecture. Everyone I see is a bust in a virtual box, only as loud as my computer volume capacity allows them After purchasing a one-way ticket to Greece in to be. My world exists within the battery-exhausted September 2020, I participated in my first and last bandwidth of my computer, and the strength of my Greek Championship of the year before the country conversations is contingent on the strength of my Wi-Fi. re-entered a full lockdown in November. Upon Not to mention that my jokes over Zoom aren't even learning that gyms were closing, I immediately invested remotely funny - pun absolutely intended. in equipment, transforming the apartment's main bedroom into a weight room with a view (maneuvering In fact, it started as a joke: "If Columbia goes fully the furniture was perhaps a better workout than any virtual in the fall, I'm moving across the world." After set I've completed on the professional setup). Seven seven months of quarantine in New Jersey, I was ready months of squatting household items and running to exit not only my comfort zone, but also my time basement stair intervals in New Jersey helped me zone. As if I wasn't Greek enough being a Greek in become creative with my fencing training in Greece; Greek life, I'm now a Greek in Greek life writing to you a tarp laid across the hypotenuse of my coach's living from Greece. With a vacant family home in Athens that room was my new fencing strip, and painted on the wall could use some TLC and the prospect of being able to was the friendly reminder, "No pain, no gain. Shut up continue training and competing for fencing, the option and train." was as tempting as an empty flight with extra leg room. But more valuable than the weight I could add onto I guess you can call me the Hannah Montana of the the squat rack was the weight that was taken off my THE LYRE 33 COLLEGIATE CORNER shoulders upon moving to Greece. Despite essentially operating on both Greek and U.S. time, with training in the morning and classes in the evening, I was able to compartmentalize and concentrate my days in ways that were impossible in the chaos of campus life. This positive change was enabled only through the challenge preceding it. On my final bike interval in the Athens gym before lockdown, I noticed the following statement painted on the wall: "If it doesn't challenge you, it won't change you." Aside from teaching me that the ANIKA AT A MEET WITH THE COLUMBIA FENCING TEAM pandemic would make Athens a city of home gyms and motivational quotes playlist, around three shots of espresso, typically two painted on walls, this phrase has propelled me through broken blades, and one exhausted brain and body. But the past year. Consider the fundamental science of both the beauty and the burden of the sport is that as exercise: a muscle has to tear in order for it to grow. calculated as it seems, it is highly spontaneous: while no Unless you get comfortable being uncomfortable, two actions are ever the same, neither are two reactions. progress won't be handed to you like a Greek grandma delivering baklava to her grandchild. I placed dead last at my first World Cup. My dream is to qualify for the Olympic Games. Now, re-read those two People often refer to me as a "machine" (which I won't statements. Though they wholly contradict each other, blame on the caffeine, since I do do burpees for fun), somewhere in between last place and Olympic hopeful and I describe my lifestyle as HIIT-paced: intense bursts lies the process. I'll admit it: even saying "hopeful" of productivity followed by short periods of rest. But the is generous. Essentially being last in the world was a motivation behind my "just do it" mentality, in addition moment I preferred neither to experience nor to look to the reminder from the swoosh on my training back on, and when I remind myself of my dream, I don't sneakers and the Spartan blood flowing inside my veins, believe it - I say it as a joke. But then, moving to Greece is that time won't wait. My first fencing coach used to started as a joke, and look at where I ended up. say that being "on time is already late"; either I arrived early, eager and equipped, or I paid the push-up price. Fencing has equipped me with a weapon for life, and I Since then, my desire not only to show up, but also to don't only refer to the saber I hold in my hand. What's show up on time and ready has been the impetus for fascinating about training toward an "invisible" and everything from my daily life to my biggest decisions. "impossible" goal is that you learn to accept progress as When I determined that booking a flight to Greece was the prize. Before the pandemic, I perceived the process the best option, I "just did it." as the hurdle I'd need to hoist myself over to finally reach higher ground (or at least second-to-last place). Often characterized as physical chess, fencing has Today, I deem every practice, every point scored, every taught me the perfect balance between patience and over-washed set of sports clothes, even every injury a decisiveness. With only milliseconds to perceive, process victory, because the lessons learned along the way last and react to the opponent's action, it is a sport of far longer than a certificate, plaque or even bronze, precision and vision, targets and tactics, and, of course, silver or gold. I aim for progress over perfection, because caffeine-induced creativity. A full fencing tournament although the process takes time and isn't linear, at least entails over 200 competitors, a 12-hour pump-up it encourages me to live in the moment. 34 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Of all the gifts this past year has provided, becoming To our new members: Thank you for being the most president of Alpha Chi Omega at Columbia was the responsive, motivated and involved group of women. You greatest one. Joining a sorority was the last thing I ever have been the fuel our chapter needed to beal and grow. Your thought I'd do, but the best thing I ever did; despite passion for Alpha Chi was apparent even virtually, and that being the oldest of three sisters at home in New Jersey, makes me beyond confident in and excited for the energy finding my sisters in Alpha Chi has made me feel you'll bring once we're in person. closer to home than ever. There's only one thing better than finally finding the real, strong woman within To our older members: Thank you for continuing to learn and yourself, and that's finding it within more than 100 to teach. Having experienced this chapter in its normalcy, it's other women. We are a chapter of Wonder Women, tempting to say that "this wasn't how it was supposed to be," always seeking the best for our sisters, our society and but if anyone knows how to pick up adversity and drop-kick it the world. Alpha Chis wear many capes, but the badge across the continent, it's you. Remember, everything happens for we wear is one. Our motto, "Together let us seek the a reason. Your faith in our organization is the impetus bebind this heights," reminds us to constantly challenge ourselves chapter, and we will become realer, stronger women as a result and to motivate each other to do the same. of this. Something that has consistently impressed me about To our seniors: Your impact has resonated deeply with our my executive board is that each individual stepped chapter. It has been the most incredible honor to have you into her role knowing that it would be different in a as role models, and your legacy will drive the future of pandemic. It's one thing to be faced with a challenge Alpha Chi. Please know that this is not goodbye, and no while serving a leadership position, but it's a whole matter how far we are in space and time, your fellow real, other to face it voluntarily, from the start (in other strong women will always answer. words, these women would do burpees for fun). Despite the difficulties of this past year, the participation, So, thank you, Alpha Chi, for keeping me going, and for patience and passion of our members have kept the making me feel like Wonder Woman. To my real, strong organization going. This leadership has taught me that women everywhere: you can never thank your support system enough, and although an email can never wholly express the Be decisive: if you don't ask, the answer is always no. gratitude I have for our chapter, I sent this virtual thank Be adaptive: grow through what you go through. you note at the conclusion of the spring semester to Be persevering: aim for progress, not perfection. remind these women of their strength: Be spontaneous: just do it. Be diligent: keep your squats low and your standards high. Be present: live in the moment. Be bold: get comfortable being uncomfortable. Be resilient: if it doesn't challenge you, it won't change you. Be strong: continue to seek the heights and to serve as Wonder Women not only for your chapters and communities, but for the world. Stop Sharing Screen. Stop Video. Mute. End Meeting HELLAS for All. ANIKA AT THE FENCING WORLD CUP IN POLAND, COMPETING FOR THE GREEK NATIONAL TEAM THE LYRE 35 LIFE Authentically Me ADVOCATING FOR MYSELF severity and think it's hyperbole. There is a different AND OTHERS THROUGH kind of weight that I feel when it comes to my invisible illness. With needs that are not clearly visible, I have MY JOURNEY WITH had to fight against feeling like a burden when I ask for NARCOLEPSY accommodations or need something to be able to live. BY DAYLE LANE My undergraduate college experience was the ultimate (TAU, BRENAU UNIVERSITY) test of being outside of my comfort zone and a whirlwind that was figuring out life with narcolepsy. I remember walking in the hallway as I headed to On top of normal stress and anxieties of starting college, class in the seventh grade when all of a sudden no establishing a new daily routine was crucial for my one was there and I was fading into darkness. How health, and with all new people, I needed a new support long I was in that state is a blur to me, but I remember system. There were some major bumps in the road being woken up and taken to the clinic. After several of figuring out how to navigate a consistent schedule years of this unknown illness and countless doctors' with varying class times, changing majors and college appointments, I'll never forget the nurse making the activities. I am thankful for my experience at Brenau suggestion, Maybe she fell asleep? The next doctor I University's Women College program for SO many went to was a sleep specialist, and by the time I was things, and some of the main ones include amazing heading into ninth grade, I was officially diagnosed with faculty/staff and the best friends who turned into sisters. narcolepsy. Going through recruitment was the best decision Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological disorder that I've ever made. I have many Greek-affiliated family affects the brain's ability to control sleep-wake cycles. members, SO while I knew I wanted to join a sorority, Symptoms often include periods of excessive daytime I never thought these women of Alpha Chi Omega sleepiness and brief involuntary sleep episodes. Many would truly shape my life the way they have. There were individuals with narcolepsy also experience uneven and a couple of times where extremely emotional personal interrupted sleep that can involve waking up frequently events majorly affected my narcolepsy. My sisters were during the night. always there. From supportive talks, encouragement or even reminding me it's past my bedtime, these best One of the toughest parts friends truly became my family. of having narcolepsy is the stigma and the unbelief. During my sophomore year, my new member class was I have received a range hearing the expectations that come with living in the of reactions when I share house for the first time. We were talking about what my disability. Sometimes to do if there were a fire, and I vividly remember my it is jokes; other times class members saying, "I'll grab the charter!" "I'll grab people make judgements the coat of arms!" and Dana Cole saying, "And I'll grab or assumptions; and Dayle in case she is sleeping!" We all were laughing in often people don't get the the moment, but I remember my eyes filling with tears of joy because my sisters were continuing on about how DAYLE LANE important I was and saying, "While we can get a new 36 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Alpha Chi Omega Alpha Chi Omega Alpha Chi Omega accommodation plans that would keep them active but also allow for excuses should they need them. I truly felt that God was able to use me through multiple occasions, in showing love and support to sisters who had a lot on their plates already. Through my journey, I have taken on the responsibility to be open about the things I face in the hopes that I create a safe space for others wherever I go. By being my authentic self and sharing who I really am, I want others to feel they can be real around me and share their stories with confidence that they will be accepted. Being a real, strong woman means that I don't have to be perfect all the time. It means that if I am being authentic to who I am and strong in courage, I can do anything. Being a real, strong woman means I am not in this alone. I have connections to other real, strong DAYLE'S 2016-17 women who will be there to support me if I reach CONSULTANT TEAM out. Being a real, strong woman means that I have the characteristics and skills to be able to support my sisters coat of arms, we cannot get a new Dayle." Although and all those who come in contact with me. Being a thankfully there was never a fire, my sisters never saw real, strong woman means I live out the Symphony anything I needed for an accommodation as a burden and do my best because I know that as a real, strong on them, but as a way to show me how much love we woman...I can do anything. share in our Bond. Because of the strict sleep schedule I had to maintain MEMBERS OF DAYLE'S TAU CHAPTER CLASS REUNITED AT BRENAU'S MAY DAY EVENT IN 2018 in order to stay healthy, I was put on a special accommodation plan for the chapter events I could not attend. As a member of the chapter relations and standards board for three years, I was able to take that knowledge into my role as an Alpha Chi Omega chapter consultant. As a chapter consultant, I was stretched outside of my comfort zone and truly learned through that experience to ask for what I need. On my first chapter visit, I was talking to a sister about some of the things she struggled with, and we discovered that we both had narcolepsy! It was an amazing feeling knowing that not only am I not alone, I found someone who shared a bond in more ways than one. After that visit, I became more open about my disability, and on two other occasions, sisters shared with me that they also had narcolepsy and thought they may have to leave Alpha Chi Omega because of it. It was such a blessing to be able to help them speak to the executive board about CAREER OUTLOOK Preparing the Next Generation of Professionals LEARN MORE ABOUT "I joined the Capstone program because I knew THE CAPSTONE this would be a great opportunity to learn how to strengthen my leadership skills," Jenna Lee Ramsay LEADERSHIP PROGRAM. (Alpha Gamma, The University of New Mexico) says. "I also saw this as a chance to meet sisters from across e know no matter their path or passion, the country. From this past year, sisterhood has become W our collegiate women are hoping for a life more important than ever, and I want to put myself out that is meaningful, fulfilling and makes there as much as I can right now." a difference. The Capstone Leadership Program is Alpha Chi Omega's investment in the next generation of And for Gigi Kerber (Alpha Omicron, The Ohio State professionals and leaders. Held virtually from February University), the program gave her skills to use right to May 2021, this interactive leadership development away when she starts her new job in July: "I thought experience helped sisters enhance professional skills the Capstone program would be a great opportunity and competencies that will play a role not only in to learn more about joining the workforce and the their careers but also in other areas where they can be leadership skills that I'll need in doing so." leaders, such as civic engagement and volunteerism. Forty-one juniors and seniors participated, and their Providing guidance and support along the way was reasons for doing SO were varied. a team of dedicated alumnae sisters. "I volunteered because there is a lot I wish I had known when I was "This semester I arranged to study abroad; however, a junior/senior in college about career topics," explains my plans were altered due to the pandemic," explains Courtney Igbo-Ogbonna (Delta Tau, Minnesota State Sara Horvath (Iota, University of Illinois at Urbana- University, Mankato), who led one of the small groups Champaign). "I was determined to make the most of participants. "It's important that I continue to share out of my time and sought opportunities to grow the knowledge that I have with our incoming young professionally and personally." professionals because navigating the professional world can be overwhelming and confusing!" Christin Spencer (Alpha Upsilon, The University of Alabama), another small group leader, agrees: "I know Arianna when I was in college I had SO many questions, and I was comforted by the fact that I had close confidantes I could talk to about anything from work challenges to Stephanie King what shoes are best to commute in a large city." Baker Joining the program, as well, were a group of executive mentors. Diane Boone (Beta Tau, Miami University), president and founder of 2 Line Pass Team Dynamics, Ahanti Laura Allaben LLC., was happy to share her advice gained from more SISTERS PARTICIPATING IN A CAPSTONE SESSION than 25 years in coaching and team communications. 38 ALPHA CHI OMEGA She says, "I believe that effective communication is at A FEW CAPSTONE PARTICIPANTS the core of leadership. The ability to interact effectively AND VOLUNTEERS with others may be the difference between success and failure in your work and personal life." Monica Cepero (Beta Eta, Florida State University) is the newly appointed county administrator of Broward County in Florida, effective March 2022; she explains why she was excited to connect with collegiate members: "It is our responsibility to give back and keep supporting and providing opportunities to others. After all, had others not taken a chance on me and provided SARA GIGI JENNA LEE me with opportunities, I wouldn't be where I am today." HORVATH KERBER RAMSAY And the experience gave back to our volunteers as well. "It has been very rewarding to connect and learn from the other executive mentors," Monica shares. "It further demonstrates that learning is a lifelong journey, and I have learned from my counterparts in other disciplines and lines of work." This mirrors the advice she shared with collegians: "Remember to never stop learning!" "An 'aha' moment occurred during the first session when I experienced that feeling of sisterhood that I COURTNEY CHRISTIN had discovered SO many years ago as a collegian," Diane IGBO- SPENCER recalls. "I felt the bond of sisterhood transcend chapters OGBONNA and years, even though I did not know any of these sisters prior to the program. That was when I knew that this was SO much more than just mentoring for me." Each Capstone session followed a similar framework: Warm-up activity and introduction of session competencies Panel discussion with executive mentors sharing real-life examples of living out competencies in DIANE MONICA their career and outside of work BOONE CEPERO Small group breakouts for discussion and interactive activities to grow leadership skills Through their participation in the program, collegiate Closing with "career stallers and stoppers" members took away valuable lessons that they'll carry to highlight the importance of developing with them after they graduate, whether that's into a competencies to avoid missteps in their jobs or professional role or as a leader in their communities leadership roles and volunteer organizations. Post-session work assigned to continue practicing skills and reflecting on the life participants aspire to Sara says that before the program, she hadn't have thought about what kind of work environment she THE LYRE 39 CAREER OUTLOOK HERE ARE JUST SOME OF THE PROFESSIONAL needed. "Now, I can SKILLS PARTICIPANTS connections she made within her small group. "I love confidently say I seek LEARNED ABOUT, BASED that we are able to connect and learn from each other, ON COMPETENCIES companies that value even through a program that is 100% remote. Every ESTABLISHED BY THE flexibility, mobility and NATIONAL ASSOCIATION meeting, I came away reinvigorated by my group." open communication," OF COLLEGES she shares, adding that AND EMPLOYERS, Jenna Lee's Capstone network has already helped her; she gained confidence THE COMPETENCY when she didn't know where to start with a project, FRAMEWORK BY KORN to participate in she reached out to an executive mentor for support. FERRY LEADERSHIP meetings at her She adds, "Not only do I have someone I can rely on for ARCHITECT AND internship. AXQ VOLUNTEER advice who is more than willing to help, I now have a COMPETENCIES: new friend." Gigi says, "One thing that I enjoyed learning BUILDING "The best part of the program has been gaining about was how to RELATIONSHIPS AND inspiration from the authentic discussion and TRUST develop genuine collaboration among real, strong women," Sara says. "I DEMONSTRATING and meaningful SELF-AWARENESS went into the program focused on developing myself connections in the AND ADAPTABILITY but along the way discovered the importance of lifting workplace. As a LEADING others up." 'people person,' I love INCLUSIVELY AND chatting with my MOTIVATING OTHERS "I would highly recommend that my peers seek out COLLABORATING peers and coworkers. opportunities like this one," Gigi suggests. "I think it's BEING I loved learning tips ACCOUNTABLE AND easy to forget about the massive network of Alpha Chi on fostering trust, ACTION-ORIENTED Omega alumnae across the country. Taking part in the authenticity and MANAGING CHANGE Capstone program has given me a glimpse into this vulnerability." BEING RESILIENT valuable network as well as the support and knowledge that our alumnae have to offer." Jenna Lee highlights a piece of advice that stood out to her: "One that resonated with me the most is how Diane adds, "My advice and hope is that everyone takes important it is to own your mistakes. I believe in the the opportunity to mentor someone in the future. power of growth, and being responsible for your actions We all benefit from guidance, motivation, emotional is the first step." support and role modeling throughout our lives, and there are times when we can be both - the mentor and Additionally, the network created through the Capstone the mentee - even at the same time." program is something all participants found valuable. Sisters interested in taking up Gigi's and Diane's "The key to being a successful professional in any recommendations are in luck! We hope to offer another round industry is creating a network of people around you. of the Capstone Leadership Program in the future; any details You have to be connected, not just with those who work will be sent via email and shared on social media. And sisters in your industry, but people who come from a number of all ages are always welcome to join Women & Wisdom: of different backgrounds," Courtney says, adding, "The Alpha Chi Omega's Network of Real, Strong Women. Career whole point of Alpha Chi Omega is to create a network advice, resume reviews and professional connections are of women who are there to support you in any way." just a click away at womenandwisdom.org. Anyone with questions on either Capstone or Women & Wisdom can "It's never too early to make connections. Don't wait email Director of Lifetime Engagement Arianna Bradley at to find your own mentors, and don't wait to give abradley@alphachiomega.org. back either," Christin shares, pointing to the great 40 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Mentorship, Hard Work and Growing from Mistakes ONE SISTER SHARES "You are your own genie," Jackie says. "You can create the life you want, personally and professionally. It just HER TIPS FOR SUCCESS takes a lot of work." Jackie also acknowledges that as a IN THE LAW INDUSTRY - white woman, she has privilege and hasn't had to face OR ANY CAREER! some of the societal boundaries that people of color face in her industry in making opportunities for themselves. BY LAUREN FILIPPINI It's one reason that mentorship is SO important to her. (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), EDITOR Jackie says she has benefitted from mentors along the way and has sought to return that support when she could. T he thing that I always count on is change," "There are SO many incremental steps to getting a seat at says Jackie Rovine (Beta Eta, Florida State the table and helping others do the same - putting in the University) about her career. "I think that can time to develop mentor relationships, seeking and giving be really challenging, but I have learned to be very feedback, making introductions, overcoming the inevitable comfortable with that and how to step in despite the challenges - but rising together is essential," she says. uncertainty and fear." Jackie put this work into formalized action in the New An openness to change York office at her previous law firm, Baker & Hostetler, made it easier for her to LLP, when she started the New Parent Outreach pursue a job opening she Program. In her fifth year at the firm when she had saw on LinkedIn during her first daughter, Jackie spent hours of her maternity the first months of the leave reminding colleagues when she would return and pandemic, leaving the coordinating the work she could resume on her first day law firm she loved - just back. But she ended her leave the day after an unexpected as she was approaching leadership change that resulted in all that planned work consideration for not being returned to her. As she was dealing with finding promotion - for this dream new work, the transition to being a working mom and job. She's now working colleagues' well-intentioned efforts not to overburden her as an associate general during the transition, she heard of a program at a different counsel in regulatory office of the firm to support new mothers. at Facebook, handling a wide range of government inquiries and regulatory investigations. Jackie did her research, pulled together a team of supporters and sent a proposal to start a program in her Through her career, Jackie has learned valuable lessons office. She outlined the need for a power mentor who about mentorship, hard work and communicating what could guide new parents in navigating the return to work, you need - lessons she shared with Alpha Chi Omega as well as peer mentors who could connect with them and juniors and seniors as an executive mentor with the help them through day-to-day challenges, like finding time Capstone Leadership Program (learn more about the to pump amid working billable hours. As Jackie shared at program in the previous story). a company panel about women in law, "We want to bring THE LYRE 41 CAREER OUTLOOK home the bacon - for the firm and for us. We want to be her to Facebook. And even before her law career, Jackie successful and make the firm more successful. Investing saw that hard work paid off. When she was attending NYU in us - new parents who still want to contribute in a for summer courses as she considered transferring from meaningful way - is in everyone's interest." Florida State, she was invited to appear on an MTV game show - and won! The prize was to work as a production Jackie's plan was approved, and she was put in charge of assistant at the Woodstock 99 festival. the New Parent Outreach Program. She points out that she intentionally used the word "parent" in the name "When I showed up, no one knew I was the contest instead of "mother" to empower the men in the office winner, and the team was super focused on standing up to take the parental leaves available to them and to help a live, historic television production, which it turned them understand their equally important role in childcare. out to be. So I jumped in too, pretending I was just another production assistant," she recalls. "They put me "We need to create structures that reflect our equal to work, and halfway through the experience, someone ability to parent and contribute at home," Jackie asked, 'Wasn't there supposed to be a contest winner explains. "I was really focused on having it (the here?' I spoke up then, and it ended up leading to me program) be for men too. There's no other way for transferring to NYU and interning at MTV once I came women to be successful except for the men in their to New York. I realized I can make life happen." lives - their colleagues at work and their spouses to be carrying that equal weight. There is no 'real' Jackie also knows that hard work doesn't mean being impediment to them doing that." perfect. "I want to emphasize how important it is to be open to learning from your mistakes," she says. "I Jackie led the program for five years, and just before am not where I am because I did everything right. I'm she left for Facebook, her firm took the program a person who has failed all my way up, and I still have nationwide to all its offices. One of Jackie's favorite a long way to go." She distinctly remembers receiving moments with the program was a trip to the Big Apple some harsh feedback that she wasn't expecting from Circus; each lawyer with a child could invite a client two female partners at the law firm, which a mentor with a child to attend. Jackie remembers reflecting, had to deliver during her yearly review. Instead of "This is the future of business development. It's not retreating and admonishing herself, she got to work to guys bonding over cigars and brandy. It's moms bonding improve upon the criticism. over nighttime feedings and how we get our billable hours at the same time." "Over the next three years, I put my head down and worked to address all the points they had raised, In her own journey as a working mother, Jackie learned and I turned it into something I'm SO thankful for," the importance of setting boundaries and communicating Jackie says. And that mentor who delivered the harsh what you need, such as your working hours and your feedback? She watched Jackie grow and, seeing her family hours. Her advice to new parents: "Explain how success, was one of the leaders who signed off on the you're going to get the job done - from 9-5 and then after New Parent Outreach Program. bedtime at 7:30 p.m., for example - and then do it. Hard, good work will help relieve the concern that you're not The advice Jackie shared with collegiate members in available for a short amount of time that is essential to the Capstone Leadership Program is advice that all you being a good parent and good contributor." sisters could benefit from: "Truly anything is possible, professionally and personally. It requires you to connect Hard work has always been part of her career, even straight with people and reach out. It requires you to improve out of law school; her offer for a clerkship came after your skills. You have to spend the time to know what applying to 600 positions! That job opened the door for you're doing. If you do that, the doors will open in front her to work in "big law" and set her on the path that led of you." 42 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Women & Wisdom ALPHA CHI OMEGA'S NETWORK OF REAL, STRONG WOMEN YOUR ONE-STOP PLATFORM FOR PERSONAL GROWTH, PROFESSIONAL ADVANCEMENT, MENTORSHIP AND COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITY Are you BOARD Is your company an ALUMNA looking to network with sisters within and outside of your field? hiring? Share open a COLLEGIAN wanting support from a sister to review your resume? jobs, internships and a MEMBER exploring open job, internship or volunteer opportunities? volunteer roles with an ENTREPRENEUR hoping to promote your sister-owned business? sisters by posting on our online a MANAGER seeking applicants to join your team? Opportunity Board. a SISTER looking for empowering community or career advice? This is the perfect place With Women & Wisdom, you can find mentoring, events, groups, open opportunities, to help organizations member and business directories, and connections with sisters sharing your interests recruit outstanding and experiences. Alpha Chi Omega members to available positions. Share an If you are looking to empower and support sisters in reaching their fullest potential, all open opportunity while investing in your own personal and professional growth, Women & Wisdom with sisters by posting is for you! today! START CONNECTING AT WOMENANDWISDOM.ORG! NETWORK In case you missed it. WHILE YOU'RE ON THE GO! Several alumnae members served on industry-specific panel discussions where they shared about careers in Download nonprofit and medicine. the Women & Wisdom Emily Westermeier (Gamma Mu, Ball State University), human mobile app for access to resources professional and career development expert, led a workshop our exclusive network and called "Negotiating Your Next Career Move." more in the palm of your hand. Scan the QR code to download Women & Wisdom now! Find past SERIES recordings and more at SERIES WOMENANDWISDOM.ORG/RESOURCES VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT Katie Tarr ALPHA NU (UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI) CURRENT VOLUNTEER ROLE: Finance advisor for Theta (University of Michigan) chapter What do you do in your volunteer role? What have What keeps your Monday you learned from that experience? through Friday busy I mainly help with the budget and all finance crises (outside of Alpha Chi that arise (there are more than you'd think). I have Omega)? zero finance background, but I have learned SO much. I am a PET/CT technologist I can now solve many major financial problems, and I at a county hospital in discovered that I actually like working with numbers. Chicago. I perform medical imaging with radioactive How did you become involved as an Alpha Chi materials for cancer Omega volunteer? patients in underserved I relocated to Ann Arbor, Michigan in 2015, and I communities in the Chicagoland area. I see patients at knew absolutely zero people in the area. One of my every step of their cancer journey from initial diagnosis friends from college told me to reach out to the chapter to treatment to remission. It is my passion to provide at University of Michigan and see if there were any the best care to people in their darkest and lightest volunteer positions available to help fill my time and times. meet people. Little did I know that I would end up in the biggest volunteer role as chapter advisor. What is your favorite Alpha Chi Omega memory as an alumna? Why is volunteering with Alpha Chi Omega I will never forget attending my first convention in 2016 important to you? in Florida. I went as a chapter advisor with two of my AXO has always been there in my life when I have felt collegians. It made me realize how deep my connection the most alone or felt like quitting. The organization to AXO as an alumna had grown since I was in college has brought the most amazing women into my life and and how many women I knew in the organization that given me a sense of purpose. I feel like it is important to I had met over the years, many of whom I met after show the younger women in AXO that being a member college. really is for life, not just four years. Why should alumnae become volunteers for Who is an Alpha Chi Omega role model that you Alpha Chi Omega? look up to? Volunteering is such a rewarding experience. There is Kris Edwards (Beta Epsilon, Michigan State University) nothing better than seeing your collegians succeed. It is my AXO role model. She was my PCC during my time also expands your circle. I have met SO many amazing as chapter advisor [from 2015 to 2019]. I considered AXO women across the country and made great her my "Michigan mom." She took a chance on me friendships with women I would have never met as a recent grad who had very little AXO leadership without volunteering. experience. Kris was always a phone call away for any issue AXO or life related. She is SO knowledgeable about Visit the Alumnae page on alphachiomega.org to learn more the organization and knows everyone. about volunteering and the opportunities available. 44 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Real Strong. Women. OF IDISTINCTION 2021 WINNERS Awarded annually, the Real. Strong. Women. of Distinction awards honor Alpha Chi Omegas who are working toward their dreams. These sisters are inspired by their own Alpha Chi Omega experiences to become the best versions of themselves. They are doing great things across the globe and down the street as difference makers, risk takers and dream chasers. These women are breaking barriers and innovating in their careers and communities. Read about our four winners on the following pages. How will your Alpha Chi Omega journey inspire you? REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. "Previously mainly men were allowed to represent IBM Sylvia doing this," Sylvia says. "I helped with women becoming recognized for their abilities in technical positions." Her stories from her time in the field range far and Miller Foster wide. When installing systems at military facilities, she remembers guards clearing out the men's restrooms for her, since there were no women's restrooms on-site. She also recalls warning her mother that she and her neighbors might be asked some questions as Sylvia was BETA ETA (FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY) investigated prior to receiving top security clearance for system installations at places like Camp David. Her T oday, the internet is available nearly mother forgot, which made for an interesting phone everywhere we go, but in the 1960s, there was call with her daughter! no internet, not to mention smartphones or even personal computers. It was during this time that Sylvia later took her skills to other companies and Sylvia Miller Foster was hired for her first post-graduate institutions, including AT&T, the American Council job with IBM. on Higher Education and Hillsborough Community College, where she helped develop the computer "IBM offered me a job after taking an IQ test and a sciences associates program. In the 1970s and 80s, she programming aptitude test when they interviewed me turned down assignments on a promotion track SO that at FSU's job placement office my senior year," Sylvia she could help her aging parents and raise her child as recalls. "I had other job offers in chemistry, which a single mother. "I always chose my family first, which was my major, but I decided to join IBM where the I do not regret," she says. "They still mean the most to training in a new field and opportunities looked more me." promising." Sylvia credits her Alpha Chi Omega experiences in Sylvia was trained as a programmer and became a helping her in her career, from serving as rush chair in technical project manager, traveling throughout the U.S. college all the way through her many volunteer roles as and Europe for an alumna, including as an alumnae chapter president, IBM installing a province alumnae chair and still today as a member of systems and the National Alumna Initiate Panel. She is also an active training volunteer with her church and was recognized by the customers. Not Tampa chapter of the National Organization of Women only was Sylvia for her contributions as chair of the Hillsborough City embarking on Commission on the Status of Women. Sylvia shares a new path for that good government is important to her, and she has herself and for been the manager of local campaigns to help ensure the future of outstanding candidates are elected to public office. technology, she She continues today to serve as block captain in her was also one of community for her political party. the few women doing this work. "Sylvia has never been reluctant to volunteer for worthy causes and continues to do SO year after year," her nominator wrote. "She sets an example for SYLVIA MILLER FOSTER - PHOTO CREDIT: JOAN JARSEN (IOTA ALPHA, ALUMNAE INITIATES) others to strive to do better to help individuals and organizations." When asked what being a real, strong woman means to her, Sylvia shares, "She is not afraid to take on new challenges. She is able to learn from mistakes and keeps on trying until she is successful in accomplishing her goals. She is willing to take the time to mentor other women. She is confident and positive thinking, SO that whatever happens, she looks for the good in each day. She does not ZOILA Y. ALVAREZ HERNÁNDEZ give up and tries to inspire others to do likewise." Another important part of her Alpha Chi Omega In her professional and personal life, Sylvia's actions experience was that it provided her the space and mirror her words as she embodies the ideals of a real, encouragement to focus on school, something that wasn't strong woman. the norm for the women in the traditional Mexican family she grew up in. As an undocumented member, a "DREAMer" (a recipient of the Development, Relief, and Zoila y Education for Alien Minors Act) and eventually a DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipient, Zoila was motivated to achieve more academic firsts for her family - first to earn a college degree, a master's degree and Alvarez a law degree. "Education is important to me because my mom always wanted us to have the ability to bet on ourselves. My Hernandez mom raised my three sisters and me with the mentality that things come and go, even relationships, but 'tu educación is something no one can ever take away from you," Zoila explains. ALPHA GAMMA (THE UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO) Zoila and her mother are survivors of domestic violence, and Zoila's life after experiencing that as a teen has fter becoming the first in her family to graduate A been a testament to empowerment. She says Alpha Chi high school, Zoila Y. Alvarez Hernández set off Omega helped her heal from the trauma and then for college with the mission of having "the all- turn that healing into advocacy by supporting other American college experience." The women of Alpha Chi survivors, increasing awareness and raising funds as Omega gave her that, and SO much more. part of our national philanthropy. Her commitment to this advocacy continued during law school when "Alpha Chi Omega gave me a group of women I could she interned at the Harvard Immigration and Refugee look up to because you can't be what you can't see," Clinic in Boston, serving as an advocate to migrant Zoila says. "In our sisterhood, I saw women supporting women who were victims of domestic violence, sexual women, celebrating each other's successes and holding assault and violent crimes. each other accountable. It also gave me the confidence to love myself and see my skin, my language and my All of this was in pursuit of her dream. "[My] culture as assets instead of differences." professional aim has always been to become an attorney THE LYRE 47 REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. who serves the local community through litigation, legislation and advocacy work around immigration and education policy issues," she says. "I am committed to using research and the law as a foundation to create Shana innovative solutions for improving policies and access to legal services for all New Mexicans." Zoila is now living her dream as an immigrant rights Prozyle attorney at the ACLU of New Mexico as a Corinne Wolfe Fellow for Transformative Advocacy. In her first year of practice, she was selected for the Latina Leadership Academy by the Hispanic National Bar Siggel Association. There she learned that currently, Latinas comprise just 2% of all lawyers, even though they DELTA MU (UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS) represent 25% of women in the United States. Zoila says her professional achievements and joining that small percentage would not have been possible without the ven in 2021, the world of finance and investing professional development she received as an Alpha Chi. E is still perceived as a boys' club. But one Alpha Chi Omega sister is out to change Zoila shares that her greatest accomplishment has been that, encouraging women to improve their financial never giving up on her dreams despite all the obstacles. literacy and own their place in the industry. The chief When she didn't get into UNM law school on her first investment officer at Spotlight Asset Group, Inc., Shana try, she studied harder for the LSAT, earned a master's Orczyk Sissel was named a 2020 Citywire USA winner degree in education between law school admission of the Women Driving Change in Manager Research & cycles, and then applied again and received admission. Investment Due Diligence Award and a 2019 finalist for After not passing the bar exam on her first attempt, she Index Portfolio Manager of the Year at the Women in recommitted to hard work and passed - all while raising Asset Management Awards. her baby and working in her new job at the ACLU of New Mexico. The awards are well-deserved recognition, but for Shana, the opportunity to be a visible role model for Through it all, she reflects on her Alpha Chi Omega women in the finance industry is her drive. She is a experience as a key part of her journey. spokesperson for Women in ETFs, an organization dedicated to improving gender diversity in the "My interest in service to others was one key reason investment industry, and has made appearances on I joined Alpha Chi Omega," she says. "I love our CNBC, Bloomberg and Fox Business. "I am amazed by membership values, our sisterhood's constant striving how often young women send me messages thanking me to 'seek the heights' and 'shed the light of love and for blazing a path for them and showing them what is friendship round me.' My AXO Zebras (the nickname possible," Shana says. "It makes me feel validated that what her new member class of 2005 gave themselves) are my I am doing is making a difference." village. I can't even tell you how many sisters, Alpha Chi Omega advisors and Greek life advisors inspired me, That difference is even more important when you pushed me and polished me to be a better advocate, consider the high number of women who feel leader and professional." financially illiterate alongside the fact reported by the World Economic Forum that U.S. women are expected to become the primary investment decision-makers for two-thirds of the nation's wealth in the next 10 years. 48 ALPHA CHI OMEGA have made me stronger and more resilient," she wrote in a blog post for Love What Matters. "To say that I greatly admire Shana's perseverance in the midst of adversity is an understatement," Shana's nominator wrote in her award application. "With all the challenges that she's faced she continues to shine in her career and life." Shana adds, "It is in my resilience that I hope to inspire other women and show them that the journey to success isn't always an easy one. You will face challenges again and again. Success will only come when you face SHANA ORCZYK SISSEL - PHOTO CREDIT: AUSTIN RYDE those challenges head on and not let the difficulty deter you from continuing down the path toward your goals." "It's critical that women feel confident managing money, as the burden to do SO will fall squarely on them in the coming decades," Shana explains. "Women are capable of great things and should not be ashamed of wanting to learn more about the world of finance or Martha wanting to pursue a career that is financially lucrative." The mindset of women supporting women is something Shana built from her Alpha Chi Omega experience. (Hein) "Everything I do, everything that has driven my passions and success personally and professionally stems from that foundation," she shares. "There is nothing more powerful than a group of women who unabashedly Watson cheer on each other and help each other succeed." Shana also leans on her own resilience and ability to THETA (UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN) grow from challenges. Not only has she rebounded from two job losses in two years, she is also a survivor of two terrorist attacks. On September 11, 2001, Shana I n addition to her professional role as a health care consultant, Martha (Hein) Watson is a lobbyist, a was on the 64th floor of 2 World Trade Center attending networker, a fundraiser, a supporter and a volunteer. a seminar when she saw ash falling outside the But the role she is proudest of is being a mother. "My windows, followed by a fireball. She was in the stairwell greatest accomplishment is being a dedicated mother evacuating when the second plane hit the tower; to a brilliant, kind, beautiful, talented daughter, she made it out of the building and away before it supporting her every effort throughout her short but collapsed. Less than 12 years later, Shana was just blocks accomplished 21-year life, including her fight against away from the finish line of the Boston Marathon when anorexia nervosa," Martha says. bombs exploded. In 2016, Martha's daughter Elizabeth lost her 10-year "Being SO intimately impacted by two of the worst battle with the disease. Martha reflects, "I was her mom, terrorist attacks in U.S. history could easily have teacher, coach, cheerleader, mentor, advocate, friend and destroyed me, but in fact I believe these experiences occasional enemy. While she is no longer with us here THE LYRE 49 REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. on Earth, I will always be her mother, and I have tried planning or providing distractions during or after meals, in the years since her death to carry on her dreams of and emotional support. "Recognize your loved one is positively impacting eating disorders." not defined by their eating disorder and that they will need love and support as they navigate the recovery That public-facing work started just after Elizabeth's process," Martha explains. "Love them unconditionally." death, when Martha and her husband chose to openly share Elizabeth's battle with anorexia nervosa in her Her work is rooted in connections, and she maintains obituary. Often, mental health and eating disorders contact with patients her daughter met during are not included in obituaries, but it was important to treatment and the clinicians who treated her. Martha's Martha (and Elizabeth) to help lift the stigma associated loss also allows her to be an empathetic volunteer with these biopsychosocial diseases. facilitator at The Highmark Caring Place, which helps children and families process losing a loved one. "She passed away during National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, and I made a commitment to myself Connections have been instrumental for Martha, to do something every year to raise awareness and erase particularly the connections with her Alpha Chi Omega stigma," Martha explains. sisters. They provided a helping hand, like caring for her home and making meals, during Elizabeth's stays Martha's work to end eating disorders and support in hospitals. When Elizabeth passed away, 61 sisters those in the battle stretches far and wide. She has contributed to a wreath of roses and carnations. lobbied lawmakers with the Eating Disorders Coalition Alpha Chi Omegas across the country - from Martha's for legislation to increase the sharing of eating disorder collegiate experience, alumnae involvement and resources at schools as well as to improve insurance volunteering - also provide support in her NEDA coverage for support. She also raises funds for the fundraising efforts. National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA); in 2020, her team at the NEDA Walk had the second-highest "The level of support I have received from these lifelong national fundraising total, with Martha raising the bonds really overwhelms me, and I am grateful for this highest individual amount in her region. constant in my life," Martha says. "These real, strong women lift me up, support me and model leadership, Martha shares advice with sisters for supporting humility and grace." someone with an eating disorder. She emphasizes the importance of confronting eating disorders head on and Martha knows the grief of losing her daughter will helping your loved one find a specialized professional never go away, but her work allows her to honor both team, including a physician, therapist and dietician. Elizabeth and her desire to understand eating disorders Support is crucial - both tangible support, like meal and improve treatment for others. "My daughter very much wanted to change the world SO that no one else needed to suffer as she did with this illness, and I hope she would be proud of the work I have done to make a difference," Martha shares. "If my efforts have helped one person recover from this insidious disease, it has all been worth it." For resources to get screened or find support for an eating disorder, Martha suggests the National Eating Disorders Association at nationaleatingdisorders.org. MARTHA WATSON Who Do you Know? Our members are the best resource for helping recruit real, strong women into the Alpha Chi Omega sisterhood. If you know a remarkable young woman who plans to participate in recruitment on her campus, our online recommendation form is the best way to let the chapter know! ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG/RECOMMEND MAKING A DIFFERENCE Stronger Together BY LAUREN FILIPPINI "I didn't tell anybody I had epilepsy until my sophomore (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), EDITOR year because I was SO scared of what people would think of me," she says. But eventually, she told her Alpha Chi W hen Brooklyn Mengarelli, a Chi Omega at Omega sisters, who responded with love and support. "It the University of Arizona, passed away in made me feel a lot more comfortable to know they were April 2020 from a seizure due to epilepsy, there supporting me and not judging me." the entire campus community was impacted. The story hit especially hard for Alpha Chi Omega sister Olivia In spring 2020, Olivia remembers seeing social media posts Garcia, a member of the Beta Lambda chapter, who has about a classmate who had passed away and eventually been living with epilepsy for years. learned that Brooklyn had a seizure while in a hot tub and drowned. Though Olivia had never met Brooklyn, they "When I saw that, I honestly couldn't breathe," Olivia shared this connection of epilepsy. Olivia couldn't stop remembers. "I'd never seen someone else struggling thinking about Brooklyn, her own journey with epilepsy with epilepsy. I was in such shock." and what she could do. Finally, she woke up one morning with one clear goal: to create a nonprofit organization that Olivia turned that shock into action and founded the would help others with epilepsy feel comfortable and see Brooklyn Foundation to provide awareness about their value. epilepsy and support to children and young adults who have been diagnosed. Though the foundation is less "Once I had established what I wanted to do, even than a year old, it has already made a huge impact on that first morning, my mindset for the rest of my life others - and on Olivia herself. completely changed," Olivia says. "At points, I would let it [epilepsy] define who I was and take control of my According to the Mayo Clinic, epilepsy is a central nervous life. At the point I decided to create the nonprofit, it system disorder in which brain activity becomes abnormal, was a decision to say, 'That's it. I'm not letting it take causing seizures or periods of unusual behavior, sensations ownership of who I am.' I haven't looked back since the and sometimes loss of awareness. day I decided to do this foundation." Olivia was diagnosed with epilepsy in 2016. Not Olivia reached out to Brooklyn's family, listening to the only did she have to learn to manage her diagnosis stories they told her about Brooklyn and sharing her with medication, she also had to work through the own journey with epilepsy with them. emotional toll her diagnosis took on her. "I always felt OLIVIA GARCIA that people would look at me differently if I told them I had epilepsy," Olivia remembers. "I always felt that I couldn't be enough." She tried to hold on to her mom's advice - that epilepsy didn't define who she was, it was just part of who she was. But it was difficult to follow that advice when people around her didn't understand the severity of epilepsy and made jokes about triggering seizures. So she kept her epilepsy a secret through high school and the start of college, afraid that she would be labeled as "different." 52 ALPHA CHI OMEGA "It was a decision to say, 'That's it. I'm not letting it take ownership of who I am. III thing we want is for them to worry about paying off a medical bill," Olivia says. "We want them to focus on getting better and being healthy." One of the most special moments for Olivia happened just after the foundation's launch, when Brooklyn's family reached out to thank Olivia and let her know OLIVIA (SECOND FROM RIGHT) WITH how proud they were that something good came out CHAPTER SISTERS of losing Brooklyn. "It made all the struggles I've gone through in my life, every single moment I've cried since "She just really inspired me," Olivia says. "She was I was diagnosed, worth it," she says. such a big believer in her faith like I am, and she did everything right Seizures come when you don't expect Olivia was also amazed by the support she received them. She had no control over it, and there was nothing from the University of Arizona's fraternity/sorority she could have done." community. "Greek life really came together when Brooklyn passed, and when I announced the With permission to use Brooklyn's name and story, along foundation, I got support from every single chapter with plans and goals for the nonprofit, Olivia launched the here, and I still get continuous support," she says. "Being Brooklyn Foundation in October 2020. Its mission is to in a sorority is another beautiful thing about this inspire and empower young adults and children who are journey." diagnosed with epilepsy by providing them with support to fight alongside them in their effort to end epilepsy. The support of her Alpha Chi Omega sisters was extra special for Olivia - support for the Brooklyn Part of this work is done through a support network Foundation and for Olivia on her own journey. "[In called Stronger Together. A person with epilepsy (or Alpha Chi Omega] everybody knows that everybody their family) can submit their information via an is different in such a beautiful way, and I think that's online form, and the foundation will help connect what made my story come out SO much easier," she them to others who are on the same journey, providing says. "I knew I'd have that support of Alpha Chi Omega them an outlet and support. Olivia says her goal is to because they made me feel comfortable about who I grow the support network SO she can create age-specific was." support groups, and she's already heard from families across the country. She adds, "If I never joined a sorority, especially Alpha Chi Omega, I don't think I'd be where I am today. Another part of the foundation is called Brooklyn's It's made me the woman I am." Blessings, which provides material support for families struggling with the financial costs of epilepsy. "The last Learn more at thebrooklynfoundation.org. THE LYRE 53 MAKING A DIFFERENCE Continuing to Support I n the spring 2021 issue of The Lyre, we shared a SO we watched Halloweentown and called the event few examples of how our alumnae chapters are Alpha Chi Fright Fest! continuing their service and philanthropy work during the pandemic. Now, we share some of the To follow protocol, everyone stayed in their cars and creativity of our collegiate chapters. Campus health and maintained social distancing. We also encouraged safety guidelines may have prevented traditional in- everyone to attend with their roommates to limit person events, but our collegians' passion for domestic exposure and wear masks when not in their cars. violence awareness has been in full force. Whether raising funds for their local shelter or raising awareness, We rented a blow-up screen and placed it on top of two our collegiate women are continuing to be champions cars SO that everyone could see. We hosted the event in of change and living out our mission statement to one of our campus parking lots since it was bigger than connect, lead, grow and serve. the parking lot at the house. We rented a projector to play the movie and speakers, and we had a sister in a car in the middle of the lot connect her phone to a radio transmitter BETA SIGMA and play the movie on her phone SO that everyone could (UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA) tune in to that radio station to hear it in their cars. BY GRACIE ONEY-HANSEN, In total, we raised $6,290 to donate to Project Safe, which VICE PRESIDENT PHILANTHROPY is our local shelter for survivors of domestic violence. When we started thinking about the fall philanthropy Not only did we raise money for Project Safe, but we also event, our number one priority was to follow CDC gave our members and other students at UGA a sense of guidelines and COVID-19 precautions. With that in normalcy during these unprecedented times. Everyone mind, we wanted to find a way to have an in-person had a great time and was very grateful for an in-person philanthropy event to create some sense of normalcy event! We got to spend time with our sisters, fundraise for for our members as well as the local community who our philanthropy and watch a Halloween classic all in one. wanted to attend. So our team came up with the idea to It really was the perfect night. host a drive-in movie! The event was before Halloween, GAMMA THETA (UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND) BY HOLLY PESLIS, VICE PRESIDENT PHILANTHROPY At the University of Maryland Gamma Theta chapter, we are dedicated to continuing our support for women affected by domestic violence. Our chapter works specifically with the House of Ruth in Baltimore, Maryland, which provides shelter and a series of helpful resources for survivors of domestic violence and their children. While COVID-19 has made it much harder to volunteer and hold in-person fundraising events, we have BETA SIGMA SISTERS ATTENDING ALPHA CHI FRIGHT FEST not and will not give up on domestic violence awareness. 54 ALPHA CHI OMEGA KAPPA TAU (UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT) BY PHOENIX HOLDEN, EVENT ORGANIZER The Philanthropy Photo Hunt hosted by Alpha Chi Omega and Alpha Phi was open to the entire Panhellenic community at UConn. Women paid to register as teams or individuals, and proceeds benefited the Willimantic Women's Shelter, as well as the 70 GAMMA THETA SISTERS JOINED THE ZOOM CALL TO MAKE VALENTINE'S DAY CARDS FOR SHELTER RESIDENTS. Alpha Phi Foundation for Heart Health. HERE ARE JUST A FEW WHO POSED FOR A PICTURE! Many of the photo ops were simple, like "take a photo During Healthy Relationships Week this year, we made it with the Jonathan statue for 5 points." Others entailed a point to celebrate different kinds of healthy relationships more effort or creativity and might be worth 20 or 50 and educate others on what a healthy relationship should points: handstands in front of participants' favorite look like. We used social media to fundraise, and we raised buildings, community involvement or showing off favorite $652 to buy the entire House of Ruth Amazon Wish List, study spots! Women were encouraged to use any sort of even adding multiples of a few of the items. camera, to have fun, to participate with roommates and, of course, to mask up. Prizes - hand-curated gift baskets - In addition, we still wanted to get involved with House were awarded to winners who scored the first and second of Ruth on a more personal level, even though we highest numbers of points overall. could not physically be there to volunteer. Instead, we did a chapter-wide Zoom event for an hour, where we listened to fun music, talked and made Valentine's Day cards for the women at the House of Ruth. In total, we made 87 cards, some made digitally from our sisters at home and some handmade that were safely dropped off and picked up around campus. Our chapter president, Nia Dougherty, and I drove to the House of Ruth Donation Center to drop off the cards to ensure that they were delivered in time for Valentine's Day. It was a great experience for our chapter to continue SISTERS POSE WITH A STATUE OF THE UCONN MASCOT, our involvement with DVA, while also continuing to JONATHAN, AS PART OF THE PHOTO HUNT HOSTED BY bond as a chapter during a time when that has become THE KAPPA TAU CHAPTER OF ALPHA CHI OMEGA AND THE much more difficult. IOTA LAMBDA CHAPTER OF ALPHA PHI. COMMUNITY IMPACT PROGRAM THE KAPPA TAU AND BETA SIGMA CHAPTERS, LIKE MANY TO MAKE TAX-DEDUCTIBLE DONATIONS TO THE EVENT. OTHER COLLEGIATE AND ALUMNAE CHAPTERS ACROSS CHAPTERS CHOOSE WHAT PORTION OF THE PROCEEDS TO THE COUNTRY, PARTICIPATED IN THE ALPHA CHI OMEGA DONATE TO THE FOUNDATION, AND THE REMAINDER IS FOUNDATION'S COMMUNITY IMPACT (CI) PROGRAM SENT TO THE CHAPTER'S SELECTED DOMESTIC VIOLENCE DURING THEIR PHILANTHROPY EVENTS. AGENCY OR OTHER NONPROFIT. PARTICIPATING IN THE CI PROGRAM INCLUDES ACCESS TO LEARN MORE ON THE "CHAPTER GIVING AND COMMUNITY CROWDCHANGE, AN ONLINE FUNDRAISING PLATFORM, IMPACT" PAGE IN THE FOUNDATION SECTION OF OUR AT NO COST TO THE CHAPTER THAT ALLOWS DONORS WEBSITE. Hill Visits Go Virtual BY LAUREN FILIPPINI (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), EDITOR ach year, sorority women of all ages, along "All the staffers and the Congresswoman we met with E with their fraternity peers, make their way to were lovely and engaged," says alumna Sonya Hough Washington, D.C. for the Fraternal Government (Gamma Omicron, Marshall University), who led a Relations Coalition (FGRC) Capitol Hill Visits. Days team of collegians from Oklahoma. "In added bonus, are packed with training, networking and meeting every staffer had been a member of a sorority, which with elected representatives to advocate for the issues really helped in them understanding and relating to important to our fraternal organizations. our policy agenda. Congresswoman [Stephanie] Bice (a member of the Gamma Epsilon chapter at Oklahoma In 2021, like SO many other events, the visits went State University) took time out of her vote session on virtual! "This year's visits looked similar to what most the floor to meet with us in a coat closet off of the of 2020 looked like: a Zoom screen," says Amanda chamber via Zoom." Faulkenberg (Alpha, DePauw University), the National Panhellenic Conference's executive manager. "The hectic "Discussing shared experiences and a uniform vision and exciting dashes between meetings on Capitol Hill for the future with women from other sororities is were replaced with what we hoped was a more relaxed truly empowering," alumna Carmen Rene (Gamma schedule. Participants in the meetings were able to join Delta, University of Denver) shares. "It's nice to share from their computer." views with members of Alpha Chi Omega, but I really enjoy the expanded sisterhood that I get lobbying with Through a combination of emails, videos and virtual women from other sororities." group meetings, participants learned about the history of the FGRC Capitol Hill Visits, advice for advocating In addition to smaller Zoom meetings, the transition to and the two main topics they would be advocating a virtual experience also provided the opportunity for for: freedom of association and anti-hazing. Then, on a new kind of event. Amanda explains, "Being virtual April 13-15, teams of collegians and alumnae attended this year has actually presented a cool opportunity in virtual visits with elected officials and their staffs. They the form of marquee meetings. They were broadcast shared the need to protect the fraternal experience using a webinar, versus a meeting platform, to allow and students' right to freely associate with a single- for many more students, staff and volunteers to engage sex organization, as well as the need for anti-hazing and watch the process unfold." This year, more than 200 legislation (see sidebar for details). participants - men and women, students and alumni - were able to attend these virtual visits, sharing the power of the fraternal experience with elected officials. Alpha Chi Omega "sent" its largest delegation, with Edgar Hernandez eight collegiate members and nine alumnae members. When asked why she was interested in attending, Carmen shared, "Short answer - it never occurred to me Doss AEII AEII g AEII G not to be interested. If not me, who?" She adds, "I also ! AEII I g AEII care passionately about the sorority experience. Over AEII & Al AEII g AEII AEII the years, I have learned about the challenges we face, ED Marc % Joel and I know that I need to be part of the conversation CARMEN RENE (TOP CENTER) WITH LOBBYING TEAMS on Capitol Hill to address these challenges." 56 ALPHA CHI OMEGA A FEW AXO Sonya says, "The best part of and for them to be aware that legislative help is ATTENDEES all? We were able to obtain necessary to protect us," Carmen explains. "If you would commitment and interest from like to help, please educate yourself on the issues and all the staffers we met with to make a commitment to ask your members of Congress seriously consider co-sponsoring to support three pieces of legislation: the CFAA, the the legislation we were END ALL Hazing Act and the REACH Act." advocating for. I could not have asked for a better outcome, and "You really can make a difference by making your voice that hard work paid off." heard," Sonya shares. "I think sometimes people are SONYA HOUGH intimidated by the legislative process or think it may "My favorite part of the whole be a waste of time to advocate for their chosen issue or experience was seeing how for themselves. I can't stress enough that lending your small of a world we live in," says voice to an effort or even just calling your local, state or collegian Sarah Simmons (Beta federal representative can make a difference." Xi, Utah State University). "On the team, we all had connections Sarah echoes that: "Sisters, I urge you that in whatever to each other. Whether we were you are passionate about, there is a need for your voice CARMEN RENE a part of the same sisterhood to be heard. There is always an issue that needs your or brotherhood, same interests, input and personal experience. Research what you can, same university, it was SO cool to meet with who you must and speak your piece." see how we are all connected by the Greek system." THE LEGISLATION Amanda explains that NPC CFAA (COLLEGIATE FREEDOM OF ASSOCIATION felt it was important to ACT): WOULD GIVE STUDENTS OR GROUPS OF prioritize transitioning this STUDENTS THE RIGHT TO FORM OR JOIN SOCIAL SARAH SIMMONS event to virtual, pointing to the ORGANIZATIONS, INCLUDING SINGLE-SEX ORGANIZATIONS NPC mission that states, "The National Panhellenic Conference is the premier advocacy and support CHIA (COLLEGIATE HOUSING AND INFRASTRUCTURE organization for the advancement of the sorority ACT): WOULD ALLOW TAX-EXEMPT CHARITABLE OR experience." She adds, "Giving our students the chance EDUCATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS TO MAKE COLLEGIATE to see and participate in the work we engage in on HOUSING AND INFRASTRUCTURE GRANTS TO a regular basis is something we were willing to go CERTAIN TAX-EXEMPT SOCIAL CLUBS WHICH APPLY SUCH GRANTS TO COLLEGIATE HOUSING PROPERTY through some hoops to accomplish." END ALL (EDUCATIONAL NOTIFICATION AND Sarah certainly benefitted from the visits, explaining, DISCLOSURE OF ACTIONS RISKING LOSS OF LIFE "I learned that there is more to legislation than just BY) HAZING ACT: WOULD REQUIRE INSTITUTIONS OF making a bill and having it voted through Congress. HIGHER EDUCATION THAT PARTICIPATE IN FEDERAL Behind-the-scenes work is crucial to anything being STUDENT-AID PROGRAMS TO COLLECT INFORMATION AND PUBLICLY REPORT ON HAZING-RELATED pushed through in D.C., and I am more appreciative of MISCONDUCT the work that is needed to make things roll forward." REACH (REPORT AND EDUCATE ABOUT CAMPUS Advocacy work doesn't end with the Hill Visits; it's a HAZING) ACT: WOULD REQUIRE INSTITUTIONS year-round effort, and it needs all our sisters joining OF HIGHER EDUCATION TO DISCLOSE HAZING in! "I want our members to understand that our very INCIDENTS REPORTED TO CAMPUS SECURITY existence may be at risk under the current environment, OR LOCAL POLICE, AS WELL AS REQUIRE THOSE INSTITUTIONS TO PROVIDE STUDENTS WITH A HAZING EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM INDUSTRY INFO An AXQ on the NPC Board BY LAUREN FILIPPINI (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), EDITOR A Ipha Chi Omega sister Jen Daurora was elected noting that her Panhellenic involvement began as a to the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) collegian when she served on her College Panhellenic Board of Directors for the upcoming term. An Association's executive board. initiate of the Delta chapter at Allegheny College, Jen will serve alongside six Panhellenic women to set the Jen is one of five women on the Board of Directors who strategic direction for NPC were elected by the Council of Delegates, which is made and advance the sorority up of one delegate from each of the 26 NPC member experience. organizations. Two additional women on the Board of Directors have been appointed as part of the rotation "I was drawn to the through the 26 member organizations. As a director, opportunity to serve Jen will be responsible for establishing corporate policy, on the NPC board overseeing and securing resources, and monitoring because I believe in the organizational performances. Jen and the board will transformative power of begin their service July 1, 2021 and will serve through the sorority experience June 30, 2023. and I want to help NPC JEN DAURORA evolve and grow SO that we "I know that many challenges lie ahead, from changing can collectively reach more demographics and risk management issues to helping women," Jen says. "I believe that as the Panhellenic NPC evolve as an organization," Jen says. "At the same experience reaches more campuses and potential new time, I am energized by the opportunity to help the members, Alpha Chi Omega will grow and benefit." Panhellenic community move forward SO that we all can benefit, together." For Alpha Chi Omega, Jen currently serves as a director for the National Housing Corporation. Before that, Alpha Chi Omega would also like to acknowledge she served as vice president and secretary/treasurer the service of Mary Kacmarcik Baker (Delta Mu, of the National Council. For NPC, Jen most recently University of Massachusetts) as she completes her term volunteered as a facilitator for the College Panhellenic as a member of the 2019-21 NPC Board of Directors. Academy and provided instrumental support to Mary was elected to serve on the first board under the sororities navigating the COVID-19 pandemic as a organization's new governance and structure model. member of the Disruption to Panhellenic Operations As a director, she was instrumental not only in carrying Task Force. In the past, she has served as chair of the out this new model but also in supporting sorority NPC Public Relations and Marketing Think Tank, as women during the COVID-19 pandemic. alternate NPC delegate for Alpha Chi Omega, and as a member of NPC's Strategic Planning Committee and We are grateful for the leadership of these sisters and Long Range Plan Committee. all those who work to advance the sorority experience through their support of NPC. "Personally, I believe in striving for the collective good, SO opportunity presented by improving an experience Visit npcwomen.org to learn more about the work of NPC. for many women has always been appealing," she shares, 58 ALPHA CHI OMEGA ACCOMPLISHED ALUMNAE Social Media Empowerment BY LAUREN FILIPPINI (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), EDITOR W ith a few keystrokes and the click of a button, you can share your thoughts, feelings and photos with countless people across the world. Social media (sites like Twitter, Facebook and Instagram) has changed the way we communicate and allowed people to bypass traditional media like newspaper and TV to share their content directly with others. Meet two sisters who are using social media to share their perspectives and expertise, all the while empowering their PHOTO CREDIT: LYDIA HUDGENS followers to reach new heights. ANA BATISTA the outdated 'beauty standard,' and it's finally showing in @VIVALACURVY the media, which is a huge game-changer and is impacting the younger population in a positive way." You'd never know from looking at her photos that Ana Batista (Theta Psi, Columbia University) didn't always In addition to modeling and building her social media view herself as a model. It took her attending an event platforms, Ana works for a women's health tech startup led by a plus-size model and hearing about her journey in New York City. As if her life wasn't busy enough, that Ana realized she could find her own space in the she is also the president of the Gamma Gamma (New fashion industry. York City, New York) alumnae chapter! Ana credits her work ethic to being raised by immigrant parents who "I believe it took other people seeing me as a model instilled in her the value of hard work. first before I could see myself as one," Ana shares. "I'll admit, I still look at photos and think, 'Whoa - that's "I've always been taught that if I work hard, I can me. I'm a model!" achieve whatever I put my mind to, and that mindset has absolutely stayed with me and gotten me to where Using the name Ana Laura for modeling, this sister lives I am today," she says. That hard work was recently out her social media handle, Viva La Curvy, and hopes to rewarded when Ana was named a member of the one day turn it into a full-fledged brand. While she wishes Refinery29 Somos Class of 2020, recognizing eight she had seen more plus-size models growing up to give her Latinas who are uplifting, empowering and making a confidence as she entered the industry, she is now working difference in their communities. to be that example, empowering women of all shapes and sizes to believe they, too, deserve to shine. An empowered woman is a strong woman, and Ana learned her own strength when she left an abusive "Beauty can be found in everyone's unique look," Ana says. relationship in college."I stayed longer and tolerated the "We are becoming more exposed to people who do not fit treatment because I was more concerned about being THE LYRE 59 ACCOMPLISHED ALUMNAE alone and not being attractive to other men if I left," she shares. "I learned, especially through modeling, that size does not dictate beauty and does not mean I am any less worthy of a healthy and loving relationship. I also learned I had to truly love myself before I could enter another relationship!" This connection to Alpha Chi Omega's philanthropy of domestic violence awareness was one of the reasons THE CAR MO she was drawn to membership during college; another was the Alpha Chi Omegas she met in classes and across campus. She joined her senior year and has remained involved since graduating. She's particularly proud of Gamma Gamma's ability to transition its philanthropy from an in-person event to a month-long virtual series during the pandemic, resulting in more than $2,000 raised for shelters! Ana's advice to sisters is rooted in both her Viva La KELLY STUMPE Curvy brand and our Real. Strong. Women. brand: @THE_CAR_MOM "Stand up for your values and what is right, uplift other women, and be unapologetic and authentic in how you During summer 2020, Kelly Stumpe (Delta Chi, live and carry yourself." William Woods University) had a toddler at home and another child on the way and was thinking about how difficult and scary it was to bring kids to a grocery store PHOTO during the COVID-19 pandemic. With her job at her CREDIT: family's car dealership, her mind went to all the moms LYDIA who needed to buy a car and brave dealership after HUDGENS dealership with kids in tow. "I thought, 'I wonder if I could give some car tours to help moms decide if a car was worth pursuing or not," Kelly recalls. She thought these video tours, given from a mom's perspective, could help women narrow down their list of potential cars and improve their car-buying experience. What started with a few tours has grown into a social media account called The Car Mom, which hit its 100,000th follower in March 2021, less than a year after Kelly launched it. In addition to car tours, Kelly provides advice to have a smoother car-buying process and to empower women to negotiate for the best deal. "As a woman in the business, I sympathize with people being intimidated by the car-buying process," Kelly says. "I 60 ALPHA CHI OMEGA SOCIAL MEDIA TERMS try to break down that wall and give women the tools." COMMENT: A REACTION TO A POST, VISIBLE BY ALL FOLLOWERS OF THE ACCOUNT In fact, Kelly wants to share one of those tools with DIRECT MESSAGE (DM): COMMUNICATION SENT sisters: DealerRater.com. "One question I get all PRIVATELY TO AN ACCOUNT, LIKE AN EMAIL the time is, 'How do I get the salesman to take me FOLLOWER: SOMEONE WHO HAS SUBSCRIBED TO seriously?" she says. "You have to choose who your AN ACCOUNT TO RECEIVE ALL UPDATES AND POSTS salesperson is. That right there would instantly improve your car-buying process." HANDLE: THE USERNAME FOR AN ACCOUNT, OFTEN BEGINNING WITH THE @ SYMBOL Kelly explains that some of the best dealers are by HASHTAG: A WORD OR PHRASE, BEGINNING WITH appointment only, SO you won't happen upon them THE # SYMBOL, THAT IDENTIFIES CONTENT AS PART OF A SPECIFIC TOPIC when you show up at a dealership, even one with great reviews. By reading reviews of salespeople, you can STORY: A FEATURE ON INSTAGRAM AND FACEBOOK choose who you want to work with and even give your THAT ALLOWS SOMEONE TO SHARE CONTENT FOR business to another woman. 24 HOURS BEFORE IT IS REMOVED Tips like this come from years of experience in the car people realize how under-catered this market is," she industry, but her expertise has its roots in Alpha Chi says. "There are SO many women buying cars, and we Omega. As a recruitment advisor for the Delta Chi still weren't speaking their language or showing them chapter, Kelly reminds the collegians each year how what they want in a car." transferrable their recruitment skills are: "I'm good at selling cars because I was a good recruiter." In addition to getting to tour some dream cars like the Tesla SUV, Kelly is most proud of the community she has With The Car Mom, Kelly wants to empower women to created around the account. She's received messages from feel comfortable buying a car and know what features followers letting her know they're now talking cars with they truly want as women and mothers - a need that their friends and even from a woman who, through the she hasn't seen filled elsewhere. She has built several account, gained the confidence to buy a car on her own lists of cars with features that are important to her as a after losing her dad, who was her car-buying partner. mom, such as cars with ceiling vents that provide better airflow for kids sitting in the back seats. "I don't think "I always want my platform to be a community," Kelly emphasizes. "I'm one mom with one car seat setup with one set of preferences. How I use a car may be different from how you use a car." While she still works in internet sales at her family's dealership, Kelly has made The Car Mom a second career. She hopes to eventually build an online course for first-time car buyers to feel educated and prepared. In the meantime, she'll keep growing her community and empowering women to navigate successfully through the car-buying process. "I like cars a lot, but I'm not a typical gearhead," Kelly says. "I don't know what torque means, but I get SO hyped about a good cupholder, and that resonates with people. Women are car people." THE LYRE 61 ALUMNA INITIATE SPOTLIGHT Unbreakable Bond BY LAURA KNOBEL (IOTA ALPHA, degrees, advancing ALUMNAE INITIATES), ASSISTANT DIRECTOR her way through OF LIFETIME ENGAGEMENT a career in library science and eventually n their college years, many people want to forge landing a dream job at I their own path, to distinguish themselves as Northeastern University. unique and to experience the world all on their own. When Kristin Flachsbart (Iota Alpha, Alumnae But there is always Initiates) left her childhood home in St. Louis to pursue something that calls a theater major at The College of Wooster in Ohio, she you back home. She was prepared to do exactly that. eventually left her job in Boston and took one in KRISTIN FLACHSBART "My mother [Sandra Heffley Flachsbart (Alpha Zeta, rural Arkansas in order to Washington University in St. Louis)] had always hoped be closer to her mother, who was still living in St. Louis. I would join a sorority. She said it didn't have to be Alpha Chi, just to find the one that fit the best, but I That decision proved to be bittersweet for Kristin when knew deep down she hoped it would be Alpha Chi. Sandra passed away unexpectedly in December 2018. [Wooster] no longer had national [sororities] on They had gotten more time together as Kristin had campus, SO that hope of my mother's never happened," hoped, but "I wasn't worried about not having any Kristin shares. connections in Arkansas on weekends, since I was going to be in St. Louis. I ended up feeling very alone." After graduating from Wooster, Kristin went on to establish herself as her own woman, earning a When a loved one passes, suddenly the comfort of their second bachelor's degree as well as two master's presence is replaced with an ache for just one more moment, one more connection. We long for new memories or a story about them never shared before. For Kristin, those stories and that connection ended up coming from Sandra's Alpha Chi Omega sisters in St. Louis, who sponsored Kristin for membership through the National Alumna Initiate Program (NAIP). "After my mother died her Alpha Chi sisters reached out in support. In the fall of 2019, [they] contacted me again. The 50th anniversary of Sigma Sigma (St. Louis, Missouri) alumnae chapter was in May 2020, and they decided SANDRA (LEFT) WHEN SHE RECEIVED HER 50-YEAR MEMBERSHIP MILESTONE PIN IN 2013 to honor my mother [and] invite me 62 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Alpha Chi Omega Alpha Chi Omega Alpha Chi Omega to join Alpha Chi as an alumna that an in-person initiation in St. initiate." Louis would not be an option. Kristin knew that was exactly Instead, Kristin participated in what she needed to feel close to the first ever virtual initiation Sandra. "My mother always spoke ceremony with a group of new fondly of her sorority days with alumnae members from across Alpha Chi Omega I remember the country. "My mom's sisters how excited she was when she from the alumnae chapter learned a new neighbor was an wouldn't be able to initiate me, Alpha Chi; the path my mom but they encouraged me to be SANDRA FLACHSBART took to walk the dog suddenly a part of the virtual initiation switched to walk by the new since it was unknown when neighbor's house, just in case she would be outside SO a regular initiation would be able to happen. I was they could chat." grateful that there was an innovative way to continue with the [ceremony]." Receiving an invitation to join the organization that was SO special to Sandra was humbling and exciting for During a difficult season, Kristin has found much- Kristin. "It was a link to a sisterhood that I had never needed support by joining Alpha Chi Omega, the new experienced, including people who knew my mother. It friendships she is forming a mild salve for the ache that was a way to be connected." accompanies loss. She is eagerly anticipating a post- COVID world when she can become active in person Barbara Passanise (Alpha Zeta) is one of the people who with Sigma Sigma. is able to share new stories with Kristin about her mom. "My fondest memories of Sandra are her enchanting "I am looking forward to meeting the sisters who and contagious smile as well as her pep and enthusiasm sponsored me and wrote me kind congratulation notes," to participate in all the chapter activities. She was she says. In the meantime, she plans to participate in always SO much fun to be around and made everyone's the virtual Alumnae Book Club on Facebook. day a happy one," she says. Across the country and back home again: Kristin's story Charlotte Ellis (Alpha Zeta) is another of Sandra's is a testament, both to the steadfastness of sisterhood chapter sisters, and they stayed connected for many and to the unbreakable bond that exists between years after graduation. "Sandra and I were in the mother and daughter. same {member] class. She was always a lot of fun and interested in all our activities. I met Kristin when she IS THERE A SPECIAL WOMAN IN YOUR FAMILY came to work at the library where I also worked. She OR COMMUNITY YOU THINK WOULD MAKE A reminded me SO much of her mom," she shares. GREAT ALPHA CHI OMEGA? SPONSOR HER FOR MEMBERSHIP THROUGH THE NATIONAL ALUMNA Much like her move to Arkansas, Kristin's initiation INITIATE PROGRAM. experience was also bittersweet. Just as she was starting LEARN MORE AT ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG/NAIP her education to become a member, the COVID-19 pandemic shut down the country, and it became clear NASA 1 3 Anoke Omego falling 021 I 2 SPR 4 COLLEGIATE NOTES 1 GAMMA MU (BALL STATE UNIVERSITY) 3 BETA PI (WASHINGTON COLLEGE) Bid Day was out of this world for the women of Gamma The Beta Pi chapter couldn't wait to welcome home Mu chapter this fall! their new sisters on Bid Day this year! 2 DELTA EPSILON (SOUTHEAST MISSOURI 4 UPSILON (MILLIKIN UNIVERSITY) STATE UNIVERSITY) New members couldn't help falling in love with Our Delta Epsilon women were ready to help their new Alpha Chi during Bid Day! sisters seek the heights starting on Bid Day! iis 64 ALPHA CHI OMEGA 5 7 Courtney Severns Abby (she/her) Whisper Grace Rowley Grace Begay Kylee Moen Maddy Owen Katie Colette Livermo... Samantha Brau... Presley Garza 6 Gandara 8 Stansb. Camila Gabaldo.. 5 THETA IOTA (BAYLOR UNIVERSITY) 7 DELTA LAMBDA (RIPON COLLEGE) New and lifetime members of Theta Iota chapter It may have been cold outside, but sisterhood was celebrated Bid Day 2021. enough to keep our members warm on Bid Day! 6 BETA LAMBDA (UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA) 8 COLLEGIANS IN OREGON Chapter members accepted a plaque recognizing their Led by alumna Audra Priluck (Alpha Psi, UCLA), fundraising and volunteer work with Emerge! Center collegians from the Delta Omicron (Portland State Against Domestic Violence. With past and current University) and Kappa Psi (Western Oregon University) chapter officers in the photo is the center's development chapters enjoyed a virtual song workshop. manager, Andrea Carmichael. THE LYRE 65 is AXO CONNECTION 9 11 10 12 9 DELTA PSI (UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, 11 DELTA CHI (WILLIAM WOODS UNIVERSITY) SANTA BARBARA) Members of the 2021 executive board braved the snow Every adventure is better with a sister by your side! for bonding time at a photoshoot. 10 LAMBDA XI (AUGUSTA UNIVERSITY) 12 GAMMA RHO (TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY) Say hello to the next class of leaders - the 2021 executive The perfect gameday attire wasn't complete this year board of Lambda Xi chapter! without a mask in school colors! is 66 ALPHA CHI OMEGA 13 14 15 UC 13 ALPHA OMEGA (BIRMINGHAM-SOUTHERN 15 KAPPA SIGMA (THE UNIVERSITY OF COLLEGE) SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI) Sisters share their Alpha Chi pride outside their chapter These members of Kappa Sigma chapter had a senior facility. year like no other, but there's no one else they'd rather go through it all with! 14 ZETA XI (UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT GREENSBORO) The bright lights of Times Square were no match for the radiance of our sisters! THE LYRE 67 is 1 3 GFAA 2 4 ALUMNAI NOTES 1 ALPHA OMICRON (THE OHIO STATE 3 EPSILON (UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY) ALUMNA CALIFORNIA) ALUMNAE Leigh (Fouts) Johnson shared her special day with For Alpha Chi Night Out in February, chapter sisters Alpha Chi Omega sisters from the Alpha Omicron (The reunited over Zoom. For some, it was the first time they Ohio State University) and Zeta Psi (Loyola University had seen each other since graduation! New Orleans) chapters. 4 DELTA MU DELTA (GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA) 2 IOTA NU IOTA (TREASURE COAST, For their monthly lunch, alumnae chapter members FLORIDA) gathered at SweetBerries, owned by Jane Osmund Members of the chapter presented Safe Space with a (Gamma Iota, University of Florida). Their Alpha Chi donation of $1,415 from their Sippin' for Safe Space Omega masks were made by De'Atra Clark (Theta event held for Alpha Chi Night Out. Sigma, University of North Florida). 68 ALPHA CHI OMEGA English Love is Sw 5 7 overcame WHAT YOU WENT THROUGH AND IT WILL BE SOMEONE ELSE'S survival MY RIVER 6 8 5 MU MU (KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI) 7 BETA XI BETA (WESTCHESTER, NEW YORK) To spread Alpha Chindness, chapter members delivered Alumnae chapter sisters embraced the chilly weather for candy and cookie treats to sisters for Valentine's Day. a walk together. "When you can put one smile on an Alpha Chi face, the joy never ends," shares Sheri Baldwin (Phi, University of 8 ALPHA GAMMA ALPHA (ATLANTA, Kansas). GEORGIA) Throughout March, sisters supported the Alma G. Davis 6 SIGMA SIGMA (ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI) Foundation by collecting toiletry items for domestic To celebrate both Hera Day and MacDowell Month, violence survivors as well as formal dresses for the sisters collected nearly 400 items from the art supplies organization's "Dinner with Divas" event. Pictured left to wish list for Our Little Haven. right are Fairy Mills (Beta Sigma, University of Georgia), the foundation's founder Alma G. Davis and Rita Evans (Beta Sigma). THE LYR E 69 2/5 AXO CONNECTION 9 GENESE 10 11 9 DELTA ETA DELTA (ARLINGTON, TEXAS) 10 GAMMA SIGMA GAMMA (ROCHESTER, NEW YORK) Each year, the alumnae chapter partners with Epsilon Lambda (The University of Texas at Arlington) to make After 13 months without a meeting, 16 alumnae Build-A-Bears for children at SafeHaven. This year, chapter sisters were reunited at the home of treasurer though, the shelter specifically asked for shower caddies. Fran McDowell (Gamma Sigma, University of Rhode Delta Eta Delta set and exceeded a huge fundraising Island). Most attendees were 60-year members, with one goal to be able to provide caddies and bears, as well as reaching 75 years of membership! other donations. Additionally, the collegiate chapter invited alumnae and their kids to the chapter house to 11 ALPHA CHI (BUTLER UNIVERSITY) make cards to go with the donations. ALUMNA Martha (Lancet) Fishback celebrated 75 years of membership this year; her daughter presented her pin and conducted the milestone ceremony. Martha shares, "The 75-year pin is beautiful, and I will treasure it as I proudly wear it." 70 ALPHA CHI OMEGA 1 3 2021 EDITION COLLEGE READY x EXPERT ADVICE FOR PARENTS TO SIMPLIFY THE COLLEGE TRANSITION EDITED BY 2 4 CHELSEA PETREE Ph.D ACCOLADES 3 THETA UPSILON (UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA) COLLEGIAN 1 GAMMA ZETA (KANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY) Payton Ramsey won the UK Study/Research Fulbright ALUMNA Award to Cardiff University in Wales, where she will be getting her master's of public health while researching Dr. Jamie Ball received the 2021 Distinguished Young Alumni Award from the K-State Alumni Association early childhood interventions for refugees. She also received the Steven N. Swanger Award, President's Student Alumni Board. A pediatrician, Jamie was Award and Outstanding Senior Award from UofSC. recognized for excellence in her profession and contributions to her community. 4 GAMMA RHO (TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY) ALUMNA 2 BETA ETA (FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY) ALUMNA Christine Self has co-authored a book on college parenting, College Ready 2021, that comes out this June. Britain Riley received the Mary B. Coburn Outstanding It guides parents in how to support their children in the Faculty/Staff Member Award from Florida State transition to college. Christine adds that she's been able University in recognition for her outstanding to reconnect with many sisters when they've reached contributions to the Greek Community. out for advice as their children went off to college. THE LYRE 71 IN MEMORIAM In Memoriam Tau (Brenau University) Mary Adams Rich, 1928, March 2013 Candy Brown Krusa, 1969, April 2021 Alpha Xi (University of Montana) Reported to headquarters between Upsilon (Millikin University) Jacqueline Williams Olsen, 1946, January 2017 February 1 and April 30, 2021* LaVerne Crackel Dollahite, 1944, April 2021 Name, Initiation Year, Month and Year of Death Juanita Peifer Pensinger, 1946, December 2020 Alpha Omicron (The Ohio State University) Marvellee Michel Ridgeway, 1941, October 2017 Ora Brailey Geer, 1929, March 2021 *Editor's Note: Headquarters staff is in the process Melinda McEntee Shaw, 1962, March 2021 of updating our database for deceased members. Phi (University of Kansas) The list published here contains those members who Betty Tudor Brown, 1953, February 2021 Alpha Pi (University of North Dakota) passed away within the last 10 years; however, a full Barbara Hall Marshall, 1943, April 2021 Karen Olson Schlegel, 1929, November 2011 list of all deceased members reported to or confirmed Ruth Abercrombie Pickrell, 1950, November by headquarters staff between February 1 and 2020 Alpha Rho (University of Idaho) April 30, 2021 can be found on the "Lyre" page of Saramae Williams Landers, 1926, February 2014 alphachiomega.org, under Stay Connected. Chi (Oregon State University) Margaret Alley Rise, 1951, April 2021 Lillian Groce Federighi, 1946, January 2021 Alpha (DePauw University) Alpha Sigma (Ohio Wesleyan University) Mary Catherine Hall, 1932, October 2011 Psi (The University of Oklahoma) Bonnie Root Ehmann, 1959, April 2021 Jean Hixon Jelliffe, 1944, April 2020 Julian Brisco, 1959, June 2019 Charlotte Epple Smith, 1930, January 2013 Katherine Phillips Foster, 1928, December 2012 Alpha Tau (University of New Hampshire) Peggy Gentry Galloway, 1973, February 2021 Kate Sherwood, 1994, February 2021 Beta (Albion College) Lydia Kay Taylor, 1966, January 2021 Sandra Bentley Colyer, 1960, March 2021 Alpha Upsilon (The University of Alabama) Nancy Wotring Walker, 1956, June 2019 Anita Mitchell Caldwell, 1925, April 2011 Gamma (Northwestern University) Alpha Beta (Purdue University) Robin Nettles Gemerchak, 1949, February 2021 Mary Elizabeth Bowman, 2003, April 2021 Mary Callahan Dohn, 1929, December 2014 Elizabeth Urbanowski Hibben, 1957, March 2021 Alpha Phi (The University of Texas at Austin) Doris Hess Josivoff, 1951, February 2021 Averyl Overholser Keedy, 1930, May 2011 Nancy Couvillion Bloodwell, 1950, January 2021 Alpha Gamma (The University of New Doris Holiman Goodson, 1944, February 2021 Delta (Allegheny College) Mexico) Martha Savage Stovall, 1946, January 2021 Mary Day Ware, 1939, February 2021 Dorcas Knudsen Doering, 1952, December 2020 Barbara Cozzens Postlewaite, 1950, April 2021 Alpha Psi (UCLA) Epsilon (University of Southern California) Leslie Ehrman De Palo, 1978, January 2021 Anne Lane Bozarth, 1946, December 2015 Alpha Delta (University of Cincinnati) Virginia McWhinney Cramoline, 1946, May 2019 Lyda Brockman Robison, 1926, May 2011 Beta Gamma (Louisiana State University) Grace Wallace Fretwell, 1926, April 2014 Kappa (University of Wisconsin) Alpha Zeta (Washington University in St. Catherine K. Sheehan, 1951, February 2021 Louis) Beta Epsilon (Michigan State University) Betty Vallier Thomas, 1941, December 2017 Mandy Bonnie Egol, 1963, February 2021 Margot Woodward Gray, 1951, December 2020 Sarah Kraus Higgins, 1954, November 2020 Doris Pick Hutting, 1946, July 2020 Mu (Simpson College) Martha Hartwein Hughes, 1946, December 2013 Betty Jane Miller, 1946, September 2017 Marsha George Richeson, 1963, August 2020 Beta Zeta (Whitman College) Mary Barton Wintermantel, 1946, April 2021 Sandra Jean Ritchie, 1954, February 2021 Alpha Eta (University of Mount Union) Nu (University of Colorado Boulder) Elizabeth Titus Isaacs, 1929, November 2014 Beta Eta (Florida State University) Betty Bryce Horner, 1958, February 2021 Ruth Workman Law, 1928, June 2013 Sandra Seibert Payne, 1967, April 2021 Virginia Dergarry Wile, 1946, August 2019 Xi (University of Nebraska - Lincoln) Alpha lota (University of Vermont) Alice Lee Rhode Davis, 1928, November 2011 Janet Killary Bennett, 1946, February 2020 Beta Lambda (University of Arizona) Beatrice Parkhill Whitney, 1929, November 2015 Lillian Falk Underwood, 1930, October 2013 Omicron (Baker University) Andrea Donnell Alexander, 1952, February 2021 Alpha Kappa (University of Oregon) Beta Mu (Pennsylvania State University) Patricia Albright Scott, 1971, March 2021 Bernice Stark Cook, 1949, February 2021 Mary Braun Rice, 1953, February 2021 Lina M. Spencer, 1941, August 2020 Barbara Berntsen Prézelin, 1967, January 2021 Patricia Montgomery Wyne, 1948, April 2021 Beta Nu (University of Utah) Sigrid Ericksen Strand, 1970, January 2021 Marilyn Reiser Crawford, 1946, April 2021 Pi (University of California, Berkeley) Alpha Mu (Indiana University) Doris Lagomarsino Bogardus, 1939, December 2019 Beta Pi (Washington College) Nancy Jane Louck, 1954, February 2021 Lillian Ballard Grieb, 1946, December 2020 Susan Spencer Moore, 1951, February 2021 Mary Strain Rash, 1927, February 2011 72 ALPHA CHI OMEGA n #RealStrongWomen Our Real. Strong. Women. brand is who we are and what do. This has been Beta Tau (Miami University) a year like no other for Alpha Chi Omega. From recruiting new members to Patricia Nelson Busard, 1946, July 2020 raising awareness for domestic violence, empowering leaders to celebrating strong women, sisters have lived out our brand each and every day! Beta Upsilon (Duke University) Rita Shoaf Speas, 1946, March 2020 Beta Phi (Bowling Green State @UNCG_AXO @AUG_ALPHACHI ZETA XI LAMBDA XI University) Lynette Loeffler Reagan, 1963, January 2018 Beta Chi (Willamette University) Joan Cloudy Banta, 1947, January 2021 Gay Glenn Camp, 1964, January 2021 ALPHA OMEGA Beta Omega (The University of Toledo) Donna Mickens Haupricht, 1954, February 2021 Gamma Delta (University of Denver) Ruth Clifton Garrett, 1947, January 2021 HAPPY FOUNDERS' DAY to our one and only Zeta #augaxo #sisters #gogreek Gamma Epsilon (Oklahoma State Xi! We are blessed to have #realstrongwomen University) experienced the beautiful bond Julia Prue Ricketts, 1955, February 2021 of sisterhood within our chapter Judith Stevenson Thompson, 1956, #realstrongwomen September 2020 @AXO_FIU Gamma Theta (University of Maryland) KAPPA UPSILON Jane Suppes Gascoyne, 1948, February 2021 @AXO_AT_IUPUI Gamma Kappa (Idaho State University) KAPPA OMEGA Anne Miwa Kawakami, 1961, February 2021 Gamma Mu (Ball State University) Janice Rector Crum, 1950, December 2018 Gamma Nu (San Diego State University) TOOK DNA Shirley Offord Johnson, 1951, January 2021 TEST TURNS OUT I'M 100% A Sandra Steele Spivey, 1972, March 2021 STRONG REAL WOMA We're so proud of our Gamma Xi (Western Michigan president and VP membership University) programming for attending the Greek leadership retreat. Mary Allen Cromie, 1953, February 2021 Continue to let your light shine We hold our philanthropy very in AXO #realstrongwomen Gamma Omicron (Marshall University) close to our hearts & our number Colleen Maura O'Neill, 1991, March 2021 one goal is to spread awareness throughout the nation #axodvam Gamma Rho (Texas Tech University) Tiffany Ann Smith, 1998, December 2020 @MAYCI_HARTLEY5 MAYCI HARTLEY Gamma Tau (Oklahoma City University) ALPHA OMEGA Nikki Luper Craig, 1962, January 2021 @EMMALINE.TESKA EMMALINE TESKA Delta Zeta (Central Michigan University) ALPHA UPSILON Julie Ruonavaara Donovan, 1959, December 2020 Delta lota (Emory University) Charlotte Etheridge Holland, 1959, March 2021 t Epsilon Mu (Northern Illinois University) RONG Karen Totzke Ranos, 1970, April 2017 @AlphaChiOmegaHQ MEN i omega NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION Alpha Chi Omega Fraternity U.S. Postage 5939 Castle Creek Parkway North Drive PAID Indianapolis, IN Indianapolis IN 46250-4343 Permit N. 1643 alphachiomega.org CHOOSE TO SUPPORT REAL, STRONG WOMEN BY BECOMING A MEMBER OF LEADERSHIP CIRCLE. 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