ISSUE yre Our 2022 Real. Strong. Women. of Distinction Surprise Sister Connections Serene Singh HELPING WOMEN AND GIRLS BUILD THEIR CONFIDENCE Alpha Chi Omega SUMMER 2022 REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. VOLUME 124. ISSUE 4. FOUNDER ESTELLE LEONARD (FRONT LEFT) GREETED BY SALLY CUTLER (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER BY SISTERS UPON HER ARRIVAL TO QUEBEC UNIVERSITY), HISTORIAN AND ARCHIVIST he 1947 National T Convention, held 75 years ago at the Chateau Frontenac in Quebec, Canada, was attended by Founder Estelle Leonard (Alpha, DePauw University). During the MacDowell Luncheon, she surprised the convention attendees by presenting four dozen red carnations, tied with scarlet and olive ribbons, to National President Gladys Drach Power (Nu, University of Colorado Boulder). Estelle read this note from the Founders who were still living but unable to attend the convention: "Dear Alpha Chi Omegas: Though Fate has decreed we three could not attend Convention, we have no intention of being absent at this Founders' luncheon. So, by 'proxy,' we send carnations, symbolic of our Sisterhood and with our scarlet and olive green, secure in the Bonds of Alpha Chi Omega. Love to all-Nelle, Bertha, Olive" As we would expect, our Founders FIVE PAST clearly understood and valued the NATIONAL unbreakable bond of Alpha Chi PRESIDENT Omega sisterhood - and how a AT THE 194 simple gesture could mean SO CONVENTI much. FIND MORE UNTOLD STORIES ON THE ALPHA CHI OMEGA HISTORY WEBSITE. VISIT: #AXOuntald ALPHACHIOMEGA.HISTORYIT.COM SUMMER 2022 VOLUME 124. ISSUE 4. THE TOGETHER ISSUE REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. IN THIS ISSUE 2 LETTERS AND LYRES 4 CORNER OFFICE 5 PERSPECTIVES 6 AXO NEWS 18 CONVENTION Education sessions, sisterhood opportunities and Star Challenge 26 FOUNDATION 29 HOUSING 32 ON CAMPUS 34 COLLEGIATE CORNER 36 LIFE Surprise sister connections 39 INDUSTRY INFO 40 MAKING A DIFFERENCE 42 CAREER OUTLOOK 46 VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT 56 ALUMNA INITIATE SPOTLIGHT 58 ACCOMPLISHED ALUMNAE Champions for change 47 60 ARCHIVES Inspired by their Alpha Chi experience, this year's 62 AXO CONNECTION AND Real. Strong. Women. of Distinction are changing IN MEMORIAM lives. Pictured top to bottom, left to right: Catherine Pombier Bessant, Megan Bull, Heather Hall, Kristen M. Sparks Shannon and Serene Singh THE LYRE 1 EDITOR'S DESK Sisterhood and LETTERS THE AUTHENTICITY ISSUE Togetherness "You keep producing fabulous issues. Pandemic has surely affected stories available to use, but you keep coming up with remarkable, useful ave you ever been to H and genuine articles." a national Alpha Chi ROBYN DALTON Omega event? Whether (BETA ETA, FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY) it's Leadership Academy, Volunteer Summit, Collegiate Growth Academy "The current issue is absolutely amazing. I just or a national convention, there's had to send you a quick note - my favorite something SO powerful about parts are the QR codes for the Spotify playlist hundreds of sisters from all over the and link to download the Women & Wisdom country coming together to connect app. Did you ever imagine The Lyre could be SO and grow. seamlessly interactive? It's incredible." AUDRA PRILUCK (ALPHA PSI, UCLA) I've been lucky enough to attend a few national events, and the moment at each that really caught my attention LYRE SPOTTING was participating in Ritual (and it's not just because I'm a former VP Ritual and fraternity appreciation). Every sister learns Ritual from her own chapter, and like any part of chapter life, every chapter recites Ritual YOU ARE ON THE in a slightly different way. For example, the Alpha Chi (Butler University) chapter taught me to sing one of our EQUATOR Ritual songs at a fairly speedy pace. But when I attended OL PEJETA CONSERVANCY Volunteer Summit a few years ago, the sister next to me sang it slowly and deliberately, and another across the KENYA table sang at a medium tempo. Latitude:000 Alt:5990FT- 1826M However, instead of a cacophony, the different cadences, tones, octaves and other variances across the room gave Denise Griffey and Betty Shandley Osher, both such a rich harmony to our Ritual. It was sisterhood. from Mu (Simpson College) chapter, brought Each member of Alpha Chi Omega brings her their Lyre to the equator in Kenya during a trip with their alma mater! individual talents, dreams, skills and passions, and we come together to create our Fraternity. Carolynn Snyder I hope each of you gets the chance to come together (Beta Zeta, with sisters, at a large national event or a small Whitman College) gathering, in the coming year. Together, we are took her Lyre to Alpha Chi Omega. the Parthenon in Athens, Greece. LAUREN FILIPPINI "My distant ALPHA CHI (BUTLER UNIVERSITY) MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER memory of Greek EDITOR, THE LYRE letters got a real workout!" she says. 2 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Alpha Chi Omega CONTRIBUTORS ERA A ERICA N. BROWN National President EPSILON THETA (CALIFORNIA Lynne Herndon STATE National Vice Presidents UNIVERSITY, Jari Askins SACRAMENTO) Mikelle Holt Brady Cassie Gerhardt Jill Sabatino Lacy Erica is an area Mari-jean Oswald Siehl director for Chief Executive Officer the American Katie Lampinen Gaffin Foundation for Suicide Senior Director of Education and EDITOR'S NOTES Engagement Prevention. She's been involved Amy Colvin Mustafa with Alpha Chi Omega since The article on Star Booth in the spring graduating in 2014 and has also Director of Marketing and Communications 2022 issue indicated this fundraising been an Aging UP mentor for four Amanda Spice opportunity launched in 1996. It years, as she shares about on page 5. actually first came to convention in Marketing and Communications 1988 as Star Booth/Sky of Fame, the Manager JENNIFER WRIGHT SHERMAN Lauren Filippini idea of then-Foundation Director (GAMMA RHO, Denise Barker Witt (Alpha, Depauw The Lyre is published quarterly. TEXAS TECH University) and then-Foundation UNIVERSITY) POSTMASTER: Send address changes Services Coordinator Joyce Stallard to The Lyre Detterline (Gamma Mu, Ball State 5635 Castle Creek Parkway N. Dr. University). Joyce let us know of our Jennifer is the Indianapolis, IN 46250-4304 error and even sent us the great photo mother to two Submission Deadlines above from Palm Springs! brave girls, Fall issue July 1 Peyton and Winter issue - October 1 In the spring 2022 "Careers in Higher Graycie. She is Spring issue January 1 Summer issue April 1 Education" article, Sonia Elliott's proud of her Texas roots, her family name was misspelled. We regret the farm, and the foundation of family 317-579-5050 error and are grateful that Sonia and friends that surround her. Read alphachiomega.org editor@alphachiomega.org shared her expertise. more on page 26. Our Mission Through the Real. Strong. Women. Experience, Alpha Chi Omega cultivates impactful communities where women are inspired to STAFF CONTRIBUTORS connect, lead, grow and serve. ARIANNA BRADLEY, DIRECTOR OF LIFETIME ENGAGEMENT HOLLY BROWN, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF COLLEGIATE GROWTH FRATERNITY SALLY CUTLER, HISTORIAN AND ARCHIVIST COMMUNICATIONS GRACE GARDNER, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION AND LEADERSHIP ASSOCIATION INITIATIVES LAURA KNOBEL, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF LIFETIME ENGAGEMENT NPC EMILY MARTIN, EVENTS MANAGER national panhellenic ELIZA PAYNE, HOUSING OPERATIONS MANAGER THE LYRE 3 CORNER OFFICE Gratitude Along the Way BY KATIE LAMPINEN GAFFIN Over the last two years, our volunteers, members and (DELTA ZETA, CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY), staff have been running on a treadmill, constantly CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER pursuing new ways to connect, lead, grow and serve. We have relied on a remarkable combination of sisterhood, hen the Enterprise boards met in summer innovation and hope, and I'm amazed by our strength. W 2019, I shared this quote, often attributed We've persevered, made our way through every to Aesop, with them: "Gratitude turns challenge and found tremendous success along the way. what we have into enough." At that meeting, I expressed my thanks to the boards, as well as countless volunteers I expect you might be feeling like I am, that it's across the organization, for time we pause the treadmill and take some deep how much they had done to breaths. While we're taking those breaths, we can bring success to Alpha Chi look back on SO much to celebrate. Our Real. Strong. Omega in 2019. Little did we Women. Experience is engaging and everlasting. Our know how much more would programming is robust, and our lifetime engagement be asked of each of us when opportunities are plentiful. We are fortunate to have the world changed six months thousands of dedicated volunteers who support the later. We would need to dig experience for our members every day. Our donors deep, deeper than ever before, continue to be generous and thoughtfully remember to sustain our shared future. Alpha Chi Omega. Our professional staff is committed KATIE LAMPINEN to championing our mission. GAFFIN Today, much has changed in the world again, and while I cannot say I'm grateful for And after we all take a moment to be grateful that all of the experiences during the last two years, I do have what we have - our sisterhood - is enough, we get back immense gratitude for where Alpha Chi Omega is now. to work. Alpha Chi Omega will never stop seeking the heights. Thank you to each sister who has been with us on this run (or sprint or crawl, depending on the day). I look "And after we all take a moment forward to celebrating our successes and planning to be grateful that what we have for the future together. Our bond is strong and has sustained us through SO much, and slowly we are all - our sisterhood - is enough, coming back together with sisters, especially in a few we get back to work. Alpha Chi short weeks when we gather for our 61st National Omega will never stop seeking Convention in Bellevue. It will be the perfect time to reflect on our resilience, reconnect with sisters and the heights." rejoice in what's to come for Alpha Chi Omega. 4 ALPHA CHI OMEGA PERSPECTIVES Just Be There BY ERICA N. BROWN (EPSILON THETA, CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, SACRAMENTO) freshman into a confident, hopeful high school senior! G rowing up, I didn't know what a mentor was, because I was lucky to have what I had. I had a Our conversations were challenging in the beginning, but wonderful family and other supportive adults. I knew from the program's training that I just had to be I participated in sports and extracurriculars, and school patient, offer ideas and options, and ask great questions. wasn't too stressful for me. Most of the kids around me came from similar backgrounds. Although I had my When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, I was someone who struggles, overall, life wasn't too bad. remained a constant in her life. Since we couldn't do more than sit, eat and talk (which is our favorite thing Then in goals! to do!), we really got to know each other more, and I " fall 2017, I felt like "a mentor" finally. I've shared with her about was being my sorority experience and showed her around my interviewed alma mater, Sacramento State; I got excited when she to volunteer responded with interest in joining a sorority when she as a mentor heads to college! in Aging UP (agingup.org), a I have learned that consistency and follow-through are local nonprofit where it starts if you want to be a mentor to a youth in in Sacramento. foster care, or anyone. You don't need specific experience. Their mission Just being there for someone and letting them know is "to empower constantly that you are truly there for them - that's youth with the key to being a great mentor. Although I may not experience in see my mentee in person every day or week, I let her ERICA N. BROWN foster care to know I am genuinely thinking of her and check in when successfully she may be going through something. transition into adulthood." Although I was excited to help, I didn't think I really had "the experience" to be I knew I had made an impact when I received this text in a mentor to a youth in foster care. Many of my friends response to my Thanksgiving message last year: don't have kids, I had no knowledge of the foster care system, and I didn't feel like I had gone through enough "Happy Thanksgiving. I'm so thankful to have you as one of perseverance to relate to a teen-my future mentee- the people that bas stuck with me. I'm glad I have someone who experienced the difficulty of being removed from that wants to stay. You are an amazing person and friend." their family. I just knew I wanted to help, and I could only do that if I put myself out there. It was one of the best texts I've ever received in my life, and I knew the program's mission was really coming to Now, four years later, I'm still matched with my mentee! life! You too can make this impact by reaching out and We are one of two mentoring matches from Aging UP's learning more about a youth mentoring program local to very first cohort still with their original match. I have you. Don't be scared; you will make a huge difference not seen my mentee grow from a shy, quiet high school only on your future mentee, but yourself too! THE LYRE 5 AXQ NEWS 2022-23 Consultant Team M eet the alumnae sisters who will be supporting our collegiate chapters in the next academic year. While building their own professional skills, they'll help our collegiate women develop leadership abilities, solve problems and grow their chapters' success! RETURNING CONSULTANTS LILY BURNS ZAFYRE SEXTON KATHERINE TUCKER (KAPPA RHO, UNIVERSITY OF NORTH (TAU, BRENAU UNIVERSITY) (ALPHA OMEGA, BIRMINGHAM- CAROLINA AT CHARLOTTE) SOUTHERN COLLEGE) Degree: B.F.A. in acting Degree: B.S. in Business Leadership: VP new member Degree: B.S. in psychology Administration in finance and education, VP Ritual and fraternity Leadership: Chapter president, VP management appreciation public relations and marketing Leadership: Chapter president, VP 2021-22 Experience: Resident 2021-22 Experience: Resident risk management consultant at Gamma consultant at Epsilon Upsilon 2021-22 Experience: Traveling (Northwestern University) (Mississippi State University) consultant CONSULTANTS BY THE NUMBERS 5 RETURNING CONSULTANTS KELBY SULLIVAN AUBREY WRIGHT 15 (DELTA PI, UNIVERSITY OF (KAPPA CHI, FLORIDA GULF COAST FIRST-YEAR CONSULTANTS TENNESSEE, KNOXVILLE) UNIVERSITY) Degree: B.S. in education Degree: B.S. in business management 19 (kinesiology) Leadership: Chapter president, VP COLLEGIATE CHAPTERS Leadership: VP chapter relations and public relations and marketing, VP standards new member education 37 2021-22 Experience: Traveling 2021-22 Experience: Traveling consultant EXECUTIVE BOARD ROLES consultant 6 ALPHA CHI OMEGA FIRST-YEAR CONSULTANTS SERENITY BAILEY ALLISON CHAMBERS BELLA FALCON (DELTA OMEGA, UNIVERSITY OF (EPSILON KAPPA, CALIFORNIA STATE (DELTA KAPPA, SAM HOUSTON STATE KENTUCKY) UNIVERSITY, FULLERTON) UNIVERSITY) Degrees: MBA, B.B.A. in marketing Degree: B.A. in theatre Degree: B.S. in criminal justice and management Leadership: VP membership Leadership: Chapter president, Leadership: VP facility operations programming Panhellenic delegate, VP risk Fun Fact: Serenity served at the Fun Fact: After her 2021 graduation, management national level on the Fraternity's Allison worked as a design and Fun Fact: Bella served on her Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Work creative management assistant and chapter's nominating committee her Group. as a substitute teacher. first and last semesters. MARINDA CARLYLE EMMA EDGAR CODI KIMBALL (DELTA OMICRON, PORTLAND STATE (BETA OMICRON, FLORIDA (LAMBDA XI, AUGUSTA UNIVERSITY) UNIVERSITY) SOUTHERN COLLEGE) Degree: B.A. in communication Degree: B.S. in business Degree: B.A. in communications Leadership: VP recruitment administration Leadership: Chapter president, VP Fun Fact: As a founding member of Leadership: VP recruitment, Ritual and fraternity appreciation, Lambda Xi, Codi served on the Panhellenic delegate VP risk management chapter's first executive board. Fun Fact: Marinda hosted and led Fun Fact: Emma volunteered at the marketing efforts for a business national level on the Foundation's podcast during college. Scarlet Ribbon Leadership Council. Team continues on next page! THE LYRE 7 AXQ NEWS RACHEL LACY ANDREA MORENO LAKIN SHELTON (SIGMA, UNIVERSITY OF IOWA) (GAMMA PI, UNIVERSITY OF TAMPA) (GAMMA ZETA, KANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY) Degree: B.A. in communication Degree: B.S. in advertising and public studies relations Degree: B.S. in education Leadership: Chapter president, VP Leadership: Chapter president, VP Leadership: Chapter president, VP risk management new member education new member education Fun Fact: Rachel served her Fun Fact: Andrea knows English, Fun Fact: Lakin was a university sorority community as Spanish and French. paraprofessional in an elementary Panhellenic president. school during college. ASHLEY LINTON SHEILA RACZYNSKI CHLOE SIMONE (DELTA, ALLEGHENY COLLEGE) (IOTA OMICRON, UNIVERSITY OF (IOTA TAU, CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY SAN MARCOS) LYNCHBURG) Degree: B.S. in neuroscience Leadership: VP recruitment, VP new Degree: B.A. in international Degree: B.S. in biology relations and security studies Leadership: Chapter president member education Fun Fact: In addition to her chapter Leadership: Panhellenic delegate, VP Fun Fact: Active listening, critical Ritual and fraternity appreciation thinking and collaboration are skills roles, Ashley also served the Fun Fact: Sheila was a leader and Chloe values in herself. Panhellenic Council as vice president public relations. intern for the Bonner Program. KELSEY MASON HANNAH RODLUND ELISA WHITE (BETA LAMBDA, UNIVERSITY OF (DELTA RHO, UNIVERSITY OF (BETA OMICRON, FLORIDA ARIZONA) ARKANSAS) SOUTHERN COLLEGE) Degree: B.S. in chemistry Degrees: B.A. in communication, B.A. Degree: B.A. in communication Chapter: Chapter president, VP in psychology Leadership: Chapter president, VP chapter relations and standards Leadership: VP risk management recruitment Fun Fact: Kelsey's lab skills include Fun Fact: Hannah is also a member Fun Fact: Elisa owns a photography liquid chromatography-mass of Order of Omega Honor Society business and has taken graduation spectrometry. and Lambda Pi Eta Honor Society. and wedding photos. 8 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Summer Reading List H ere's a summer reading list you'll want to opt into! Our Alumnae Book Club brings together literature-loving sisters for connection and conversation. Join in the discussion in our Facebook group - just search "AXO Alumnae Book Club" and request to join! NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER By the New York Times bestselling author of EMILY HENRY DAISY JONES & THE SIX Author of BEACH READ PEOPLE MALIBU JACQUELINE RISING WOODSON NATIONAL BOOK AWARD A NOVEL TIMES-BESTSELLING TAYLOR RED AT JENKINS REID THE BONE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER PEOPLE WE MEET ON VACATION MALIBU RISING RED AT THE BONE BY EMILY HENRY BY TAYLOR JENKINS REID BY JACQUELINE WOODSON Alex and Poppy, two college best The Riva siblings' end-of-summer On the evening of Melody's friends with nothing in common, party is the most desired place to be in coming-of-age ceremony in 2001, vacation together each summer. Malibu. It's August 1983, and all eyes in her grandparent's Brooklyn They spend the rest of their year are on the four siblings, thanks to their brownstone surrounded by the apart; she's in New York City and popularity and famous singer parent, sounds of Prince, she wears a he's in their small hometown. Their Mick Riva. Nina, whose husband just special custom-made dress. That vacations over the last 10 years have very publicly left her, and Hud are not very same dress was sewn 16 years been perfect. until they weren't. looking forward to this year's party earlier for Melody's mother for a while Jay and Kit, with a few of their celebration that never took place. After two years of not speaking, own secrets, are counting down the Poppy knows this last vacation is minutes until nightfall. Taking a trip through Melody's her only chance to fix things with family history, Red at the Bone Alex. Seems easy enough, right? By the end of the night, the party is considers not just ambitions and out of control and the Riva mansion is successes but also the challenges in flames. Malibu Rising is a story about that arise when a family strives how a family must choose between the to overcome expectations and secrets they keep and what must be societal norms. Woodson explores left behind. how SO many young people must make life-altering decisions about their lives before they even have a chance to figure out who they are. THE LYRE 9 AXO NEWS THE LAMBDA OMICRON CHAPTER WITH NATIONAL PRESIDENT LYNNE HERNDON (CENTER) Welcome Home, Lambda Omicron! CHAPMAN UNIVERSITY IN ORANGE, CALIFORNIA O n April 8, 2022, the founding new member well here at Chapman. The National Council is proud class participated in the Lambda Omicron and looks forward to all the accomplishments to come." chapter's Initiation Ceremony in Orange, California. The following day, the chapter was installed Congratulations to the founding sisters of Lambda at the Anaheim Marriott. Attendees at the banquet Omicron chapter! included National President Lynne Herndon, Alpha Chi Omega staff, Chapman University staff, family, friends NEW MEMBERS OF LAMBDA OMICRON AT THEIR and Lambda Omicron advisors. INSTALLATION BANQUET During the installation ceremony, Chapter President Hailey Bunsold told those gathered, "As a founding member class, we are given the ultimate opportunity and challenge of creating our own legacy at Chapman University. This is the call that each of my sisters has responded to with her own sense of destiny and pride in her purpose." National President Lynne Herndon added her congratulations to the new chapter, saying, "Wear the lyre badge proudly and remember that you share it with an incredible network of women who will inspire and amaze you. I know you will represent Alpha Chi Omega 10 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Establishment Updates THE EPSILON UPSILON CHAPTER CELEBRATING OUR FALL If you know a woman attending the University of 2021 I INSTALLATIONS Mississippi, tell her about Alpha Chi Omega and the once-in-a-lifetime experience that is founding Last fall, Alpha Chi Omega reestablished the Epsilon membership. We are looking for women of all academic Upsilon chapter at Mississippi State University in years. Please email olemiss@alphachiomega.org to November and the Gamma Sigma chapter at the recommend her to the recruitment team, and be sure University of Rhode Island in December. Founding to include her name and contact information. You members, the volunteer teams and national can follow along with the establishment process on representatives enjoyed smaller gatherings in 2021 for Instagram by following @OleMissAXO or Facebook installation and initiation due to COVID-19 restrictions. by liking the "Alpha Chi Omega at the University of Mississippi" page. This spring, we were thrilled to celebrate with all these women (and new members who have since joined!), their families and friends, and numerous guests who THE GAMMA SIGMA have supported the chapters through their first few CHAPTER months back on campus. Formal banquets were held for both chapters, and we can't wait to see all the ways our Epsilon Upsilon and Gamma Sigma sisters will connect, lead, grow and serve in the years to come! NEW CHAPTER COMING TO UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI FALL 2022 Alpha Chi Omega isn't done growing! As we've previously shared, we're establishing a new chapter at the University of Mississippi this fall. We are excited to share the Real. Strong. Women. Experience with potential new members, the campus and the Oxford community at large. THE LYRE 11 # Century of sisterhood 1922 - 2022 OMEGA CHI Health Ta 100 YEARS ALPHA MU CHAPTER INDIANA UNIVERSITY FOUNDED APRIL 21, 1922 Centennial Plans SAVE THE DATES FOR UPCOMING CELEBRATIONS! ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA LAMBDA ALPHA MU NIVERSITY OF OREGON) (UNIVERSITY OF (INDIANA UNIVERSITY) MINNESOTA) scheduled for June 17-19, 2022 | Scheduled for August 6, 2022 Visit alphakappa100.com for Scheduled for November 5, 2022 Visit axoalphamu100.com or information. Visit alphalambdacentennial.com email lisa.t.deinlein@gmail. or email alphalambdacentennial@ com, jsdowney@indiana.edu gmail.com for information. and smcglass@yahoo.com for information. A Century of Sisterhood MARCH 11, 1922 OMEGA CHI THAN INSURANCE 100 YEARS X I XI ALUMNAE CHAPTER PORTLAND, OREGON AXQ NEWS COLLEGIATE GROWTH Collegiate Growth cc Academy A SMALL GROUP BREAKOUT SESSION AT CGA 2022 to best fit each campus and year-round recruiting. Tracks throughout the weekend were geared toward each officer and advisor. VPs recruitment focused on BY HOLLY BROWN (DELTA OMICRON, PORTLAND project management and conversation skills while VPs STATE UNIVERSITY), ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF recruitment information spent time talking about COLLEGIATE GROWTH planning and the logistics of membership selection. Advisors had the opportunity to reflect on their time ollegiate Growth Academy took place this in their roles and rediscover the reasons they choose to C year for all VPs recruitment, VPs recruitment volunteer for Alpha Chi Omega. information, recruitment advisors and recruitment information advisors; it was a great All participants also learned the importance of opportunity for chapters to acquire new recruitment recommendations and how valuable they are in year- strategies and strengthen conversation skills while learning round recruiting. We wrapped the weekend up with a how to create a values-based recruitment. session called "Putting Words Into Action"; this session focused on training leaders how to be effective and More than 400 participants inclusive facilitators, giving them the tools they need attended CGA virtually. to successfully educate their chapters on all of the great Chapters had a packed material they learned. training weekend with opportunities to learn As a result of attending Collegiate Growth Academy, and grow with sisters participants left the weekend equipped to support their from across the country. chapters, execute a successful recruitment and make an Through large group impact on the Alpha Chi Omega experience. presentations and engaging in small breakout groups, "Collegiate Growth Academy was a really eye-opening participants learned experience for me as I got to see how Alpha Chi chapters from headquarters across the country approach and execute recruitment staff; Alpha Chi Omega in their own unique ways," said Beatrice Halper, VP MA3T volunteers; and Krystal N. recruitment at Epsilon (University of Southern California) Clark, founder of Equip to chapter. "One of my favorite aspects of the weekend was Thrive, LLC, who served going into breakout rooms with other VPs recruitment as our keynote speaker and sharing struggles and issues that we were facing as EMMA GEORGE, and discussed equity and we planned our respective recruitments. We could help VP RECRUITMENT inclusion in recruitment. each other with how we solve those issues at our own INFORMATION FOR BETA OMEGA (THE UNIVERSITY chapters. As I prepare for formal recruitment next OF TOLEDO) This year, the theme of January, I am glad that I have the insights of SO many of Collegiate Growth Academy my sisters, and I am excited to welcome more real, strong was centered on strategic planning, adapting strategies women into our chapter." 14 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Hope and Healing in April SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS MONTH 2022 BY GRACE GARDNER (THETA UPSILON, UNIVERSITY Through our work to end sexual assault, we continue OF SOUTH CAROLINA), ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF our commitment to our national philanthropy of EDUCATION AND LEADERSHIP INITIATIVES domestic violence awareness. F or over 20 years, April has been nationally If you or anyone you know has been impacted by sexual recognized as Sexual Assault Awareness Month assault or if you have questions about sexual violence, (SAAM). As part of our philanthropic mission, you can reach out to RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest Alpha Chi Omegas are dedicated to educating ourselves National Network) via its 24/7 confidential chat at on and raising awareness about the prevalence of hotline.rainn.org or call the National Sexual Assault sexual violence and supporting survivors. This year, Hotline at 800-656-HOPE (4673). Alpha Chi Omega offered suggested areas of focus for our members each week of April to ensure a holistic approach to sexual assault awareness and prevention: raising awareness, supporting survivors, action and advocacy, and reflection and remembrance. Through a new Program with Purpose called The History of Sexual Assault Awareness and existing resources like Challenging Bystander Behavior, sisters learned about the history of the SAAM, the current realities of sexual violence in the United States and how they can take action to prevent violence in their communities. ABOUT ZABIE YAMASAKI In the final week of April, Alpha Chi Omega recognized ZABIE YAMASAKI, M.ED., RYT (EPSILON PSI, UNIVERSITY Denim Day and welcomed Zabie Yamasaki (Epsilon OF CALIFORNIA, IRVINE) IS THE FOUNDER OF Psi, University of California, Irvine), survivor, author TRANSCENDING SEXUAL TRAUMA THROUGH and founder of Transcending Sexual Trauma Through YOGA, AN ORGANIZATION THAT OFFERS TRAUMA- Yoga, as our keynote speaker. Zabie spoke to collegians, INFORMED YOGA TO SURVIVORS, CONSULTATION FOR alumnae and friends of Alpha Chi Omega about hope UNIVERSITIES AND TRAUMA AGENCIES, AND TRAINING FOR HEALING PROFESSIONALS. and healing and led the group in a gentle, trauma- informed yoga practice to close the evening. ZABIE COMPLETED HER UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE IN PSYCHOLOGY AND SOCIAL BEHAVIOR AND With April now behind us, we encourage you to EDUCATION, AS WELL AS HER GRADUATE DEGREE IN consider how you can help your community year- HIGHER EDUCATION ADMINISTRATION AND STUDENT round. Volunteer with a local care provider or research AFFAIRS. HER WORK HAS BEEN HIGHLIGHTED ON laws in your state and advocate for the changes you CNN, NBC, KTLA 5 AND THE HUFFINGTON POST. SHE IS RECOGNIZED FOR HER INTENTIONALITY, want to see! Take time to reflect and honor your own SOULFUL ACTIVISM AND PASSIONATE DEDICATION. connection to this cause. The only person responsible YOU CAN FIND HER ON INSTAGRAM AT for committing sexual assault is a perpetrator, but all of @TRANSCENDING_ TRAUMA. WITH. YOGA. us can do something to make a difference for survivors. THE LYRE 15 AXO NEWS SAVE THE DATE - OCTOBER 14-16, 2022 Headquarters Dedication A lpha Chi Omega is looking forward to the next chapter in our history this fall with the dedication of our new headquarters building, located at 5635 Castle Creek Parkway North Drive in Indianapolis. We would be honored for alumnae and collegians to share in our headquarters building dedication and Founders' Day celebration! Real. Strong. Women. Throughout the weekend, celebrate our Founders and the story of our sisterhood. Here's what you can expect: Friday sisterhood social Saturday building dedication ceremony Saturday evening celebration dinner Sisterhood activities available Saturday and Sunday Accommodations available at a group rate at the Together Let Us Seek The Heights Marriott Indianapolis North Bookmark your spot in our history today! Share your interest to attend our celebration event by scanning the QR code or visiting www.alphachiomega. org/hqdedication. Registration will officially open in July. TOP: DRESSES FROM SOME OF OUR PAST NATIONAL PRESIDENTS FRAMING THE ENTRYWAY ALPHA CHI OMEGA MIDDLE: THE LOBBY AT THE NEW BUILDING LEFT: A RENDERING OF THE BUILDING 16 CHI OMEGA 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! WWW.ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG/RECOMMEND CONVENTION The Convention Countdown Is On! JUST A FEW MORE DAYS UNTIL WE'RE BACK TOGETHER ONCE AGAIN FOR OUR 61st NATIONAL CONVENTION Registered attendees, we hope the next several pages of convention content help you get even more excited for this unforgettable weekend. See you on July 8-10 in Bellevue, Washington! Note: Convention registration has closed, and there will be no on-site registration offered. Not attending? Follow along on social media with #AXOtogether! EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS A lot has changed in society and on college campuses since 1885, but one thing that has remained consistent SATURDAY is that women have joined Alpha Chi Omega with BREAKOUT SESSIONS the hope of finding a place where they belong and matter. We must move beyond diversity and focus on 3-3:45 P.M. the never-ending need of the work of inclusion. In this Love is Learned: Healthy and Unhealthy session, participants will leave with a clear definition Relationships in Pop Culture of inclusion, why it matters, what it means to be a part So much of what we believe about relationships of an inclusive sorority and tips to design an inclusive comes from what we learn from watching characters experience for all members. on screen, but we're not taught how to differentiate Speaker: Krystal N. Clark, Equip To Thrive, LLC between genuine, healthy relationships and unhealthy ones that have been played up to keep us tuning in. Exploring Enterprise Board Service Join the One Love Foundation to learn to spot the 10 Join our Enterprise board leaders as they share their signs of a healthy and unhealthy relationship in our journeys to Alpha Chi Omega board service. Each favorite shows and movies and discuss what it means board member has a unique volunteer history which culminated in board service on one of our four to be a relationship role model. We'll also share ways to continue this conversation in your community to teach Enterprise boards. Please take this opportunity to others how to #LoveBetter. connect with our national leaders and ask questions Speakers: Libby Gutschenritter and Rhea Kimble, One Love that are on your mind. We hope this discussion will Foundation foster greater interest from more Alpha Chi Omega members to seek board service in the future. The Decision of Inclusion Speakers: Enterprise board members The prevalence of diversity and the practice of equity do not automatically lead to the presence of inclusion. 18 4-4:45 P.M. Preserving the Sorority Experience through represented in the membership of Alpha Chi Omega Government Relations came up in different eras with quite different life Learn more about how and why members of fraternities experiences. This session looks at the values and and sororities are engaged in the political process and motivators of each generation through research how Fraternity Sorority Political Action Committee and humor. When generational understanding is a (FSPAC) advocacy with political leaders helps to consistent consideration at all levels and experiences in enhance and defend the fraternal experience. Join Alpha Chi Omega, we better appreciate one another's your Alpha Chi Omega sisters who are leaders of the virtues, support one another at every level and advocacy work of fraternities and sororities to learn creatively interact. This synergy leads to richer member more about how you can get involved to preserve the experiences and deeper sisterhood. sorority experience for future generations. Speaker: Ginny Carroll, inGiNuity Speakers: Fulie Cain Burkhard (Beta Sigma, University of Georgia) and Donna Smith Chereck (Alpha Phi, The Collegians and Collegiate Volunteers Track: University of Texas at Austin) Understanding the Alpha Chi Omega Sisterhood Survey The Life Audit Collegiate chapter delegates, chapter advisors and province Whether you feel that you have too much on your collegiate chairs should plan to attend this track. What is plate or not enough, it is time to participate in The sisterhood? How do your members experience it? And Life Audit. Let's examine how you've allocated your how does your chapter's sisterhood impact other areas life resources (time, talent, treasure and testimony). of chapter culture? In this session, Dr. Gentry McCreary, This workshop will lead you through the three Fs the CEO of Dyad Strategies, will help us break down of prioritization (flare, filter and focus). We will and understand the results from the first year of the work to get clear on what matters most to you and Alpha Chi Omega Sisterhood Survey and will provide devise an action plan that will help you achieve your guidance about what chapter leaders and volunteers personal definition of success. We have to stop trying can do to build positive and meaningful sisterhood in to be everything to everyone. We have to stop saying their chapters. "yes" when we need to say "no," and we have to stop Speaker: Dr. Gentry McCreary, Dyad Strategies "shoulding" ourselves into unfulfilling commitments. With intentional prioritization and execution, we can Local House Corporation Track quiet the constant clutter and chaos that invades our Local house corporation (LHC) officers should plan to attend to-do lists, calendars, inboxes, screens, accounts and this track. The National Housing Corporation (NHC) is relationships. excited to host educations sessions specifically for LHC Speaker: Krystal N. Clark, Equip To Thrive, LLC representatives. Session topics to be covered during the LHC track will include an introduction to and SATURDAY demonstration of Billhighway for specific use by LHCs, TRACK SESSIONS general housing topics including housing trends and capital projects, and the introduction to the new online 3-4:45 P.M. LHC reporting system in Lyre Links. Please contact Laura Eisler, director of housing, with questions. Alumnae Chapter Officers and Alumnae Volunteers Speakers: National Housing Corporation board members and Track: Real, Strong Generations of Women housing staff Alumnae chapter officers, province alumnae chairs and lifetime engagement volunteers should plan to attend this track. Each of the living generations currently 19 CONVENTION Sunday Sisterhood Celebration SERVICE PROJECT C ontinue the celebration of sisterhood Sunday afternoon. Sing along to our songs and chants, dive into our history, connect with sisters in the Women REQUESTED ITEMS & Wisdom Lounge and/or work on our service project to support a local GIFT CARDS domestic violence shelter and service provider. VISA, FRED MEYER, TARGET, GAS CARDS, BUS PASSES/ORCA SONGS THAT BRING US TOGETHER: ALPHA CHI OMEGA SING- CARDS ALONG LED BY MEMBERS OF THE ALPHA CHI OMEGA CONVENTION CHOIR Bring your songbook and join us to sing through favorite Alpha Chi Omega PERSONAL HYGIENE songs! We'll learn new and old songs from Alpha Chi Omega songbooks since TOOTHBRUSH/ 1904. This session will cover traditional tunes sung throughout the years and across TOOTHPASTE the country, as well as recruitment songs and chants both old and new. Come get DEODORANT SHAMPOOI reacquainted with the songs of our sisterhood and our love for music! CONDITIONER (ETHNIC HAIR CARE OUR OPEN MOTTO IN ACTION LED BY SALLY CUTLER (ALPHA CHI, ESPECIALLY) BUTLER UNIVERSITY), HISTORIAN AND ARCHIVIST In this informal session BODY LOTION AND COCOA BUTTERS (where you are free to come and go), we'll talk about how, throughout Alpha Chi BODY WASH/SOAP Omega's 137-year history, our members have effected change in the world around SHAVING RAZORS them by working together - encouraging and challenging each other along the way. MOUTH WASH Let's celebrate the difference our sisters have made and continue to make as we DENTAL FLOSS move Alpha Chi Omega forward. Do you have a more recent example of our open motto in action? We'd love for you to share it during this session! HOUSEHOLD UTENSILS (COOKING AND DINING) WOMEN & WISDOM LOUNGE Stop by to make connections and spend time DINNERWARE SETS (OR with sisters! Whether you're looking to make a new friend, learn more about our INDIVIDUAL PLATES, Women & Wisdom program or meet up with sisters, our Women & Wisdom BOWLS, CUPS, ETC.) POTS AND PANS Lounge is the perfect place to chat and connect! COFFEE MAKERS INSTANT POTS SERVICE WITH SISTERS Service to others is an important tenet of our RICE MAKERS sisterhood. Join sisters for an on-site service project benefiting LifeWire, the largest DISH SOAP/SPONGES AIR MATTRESSES domestic violence housing provider in King County. Our time together will include (HIGHLY REQUESTED) a brief program from LifeWire staff and assembling baskets and go-bags to donate QUEEN, FULL OR TWIN to survivors. Throughout the weekend, Alpha Chi Omega will be collecting in-kind SHEET SETS donations and gift cards for LifeWire; see the list of requests to the right. PILLOWCASES SHOWER CURTAINS WITH RINGS GET THE CONVENTION APP! LAUNDRY DETERGENT SCAN THIS QR CODE WITH YOUR PHONE TO DOWNLOAD THE CROWDCOMPASS APP SO YOU CAN STAY UP TO DATE *NO BOOKS, TAMPONS, THROUGHOUT THE CONVENTION WEEKEND! WHEN YOU OPEN PADS, DIAPERS OR BABY THE APP, SEARCH "ALPHA CHI OMEGA" AND USE EVENT CODE: WIPES ARE NEEDED AT THIS REDCARNATION1885. DON'T FORGET TO MAKE AN ACCOUNT TIME! SO YOU CAN CONNECT WITH OTHER ATTENDEES. NO ROOM TO DOWNLOAD OUR APP? VISIT HTTPS://CROWD.CC/AXOTOGETHER. 20 ALPHA CHI OMEGA More Convention Fun! HISTORY EXPERIENCE Are you ready to uncover Alpha Chi Omega treasures, learn CONVENTION CHARM more about some of our special memory-making items from our CONVENTION CHARMS ARE A TIME- archives and share what being together as Alpha Chi Omegas HONORED JEWELRY TRADITION. means to you? You'll want to stop by the History Experience, AVAILABLE WHILE SUPPLIES LAST IN which will be located by the Women & Wisdom Lounge on the GOLD OR SILVER PLATING, THE DOUBLE- SIDED BELLEVUE CONVENTION CHARM second floor. This History Experience will include: FEATURES THE 2022 CONVENTION A hands-on tool to take you back in time to learn more about THEME. THE CHOICE IS YOURS WEAR AS A NECKLACE OR START/ADD TO A how sisters have joined together to seek the heights since 1885 BRACELET TO CAPTURE MEMORIES. ORDER Access to some special treasures from the Alpha Chi Omega AT HJGREEK.COM/AXO OR STOP BY THE archives VENDOR AREA AT CONVENTION! The opportunity to record a message SO you can share your Alpha Chi Omega story with sisters to come - bringing your story as a real, strong woman to future sisters! LYRE CONTRIBUTORS WANTED together Do you want to share all the excitement of convention with sisters back home? We're looking for volunteers to report on the AXO 2022 convention experience for the next issue of The Lyre. Registered BELLEVUE, WA attendees who are interested in writing about the weekend should email editor@alphachiomega.org by June 30; we'll follow up with more information to set you up for success! MOVEMENT CHALLENGE All weekend long, you'll be moving from session to session and exploring the beautiful city of Bellevue. Make your steps and rolls count by participating in our Movement Challenge! Pack your pedometer, smartwatch or other step tracker to record your movement, and we'll remind you to submit totals each night. SING TOGETHER AT CONVENTION! Going to convention? Like to sing? Love to sing Alpha Chi Omega songs? We want you to be part of the volunteer convention choir to help lead the music during convention sessions. Scan the QR code to complete the needed information, or email Amanda Spice, director of marketing and communications, at aspice@alphachiomega.org, with any questions. Warm up those voices, and see you there! THE LYRE 21 AXQ 2022 National Convention CLOTHES & ACCESSORIES packing checklist FRIDAY, JULY 8 Reunion Night (snappy casual [jeans allowed], be sure to show your alma mater pride) top/bottom dress cardigan/blazer/jacket undergarments socks/shoes accessories SATURDAY, JULY 9 National Chapter Meeting (all-white badge attire and white or flesh-tone shoes), Foundation Luncheon (all white OR badge attire), Carnation Celebration (semi-formal) tops/bottoms dresses cardigan/blazer/jacket undergarments socks/shoes accessories SUNDAY, JULY 10 National Chapter Meeting (badge attire), Sunday Sisterhood Celebration (snappy casual) tops/bottoms dresses cardigan/blazer/jacket undergarments socks/shoes accessories together LET US SEEK THE HEIGHTS Is MISCELLANEOUS ATTIRE CONVENTION TOTE pajamas Tote bag is provided at on-site registration bathing suit notebook AXO t-shirt tissues sunglasses business cards raincoat pens walking shoes hand lotion lip balm water bottle mints TOILETRIES toothbrush/toothpaste floss / mouthwash ELECTRONICS contact solution & case phone & charger eyeglasses laptop/iPad & charger face wash / moisturizer pedometer, smartwatch or step tracker shampoo / conditioner body wash / lotion MISCELLANEOUS razor deodorant Alpha Chi Omega badge brush / comb milestone pin(s) hair products spending money dry shampoo travel documents flat iron / curling iron/blow dryer school pride decorations (Reunion Night) makeup bag masks feminine products hand sanitizer sunscreen vaccine card and/or test results (optional) band-aids / medicine electronics/entertainment (optional) donation items for LifeWire THEIYRE 23 CONVENTION HOW SHOULD I PARTICIPATE IN Star Challenge? START HERE WHAT IS YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH ALPHA CHI OMEGA? I care about Alpha Chi Omega. I am an Alpha Chi Omega. WHAT IS YOUR ARE YOU A...? CONNECTION? I work with Alpha Chis I have family/friends Collegian Alumna and/or AXO chapters. who are Alpha Chis. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF ALPHA CHI OMEGA? Our Real. Strong. My sisters! They are Women. brand my best friends and and tagline. support system. JOIN THE STAR CHALLENGE HONOR THEM WITH A CONVERSATION ON SOCIAL VIRTUAL STAR DURING MEDIA AND TAG A SISTER. STAR CHALLENGE. NO MATTER HOW YOU PARTICIPATE, WE CAN'T WAIT 24 TO REACH FOR THE STARS TOGETHER. Join the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation during Star Challenge this summer. Honor your sisters and friends with a star and support the Real. Strong. Women. Fund. When you give, you help keep Alpha Chi Omega strong for future generations of sisters SO they can experience the power of our sisterhood just like you! ARE YOU GOING TO CONVENTION THIS YEAR? Yes! No, unfortunately. CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOU! YOU'LL BE MISSED, BUT YOU CAN STILL PARTICIPATE! IS THIS YOUR FIRST HOW INVOLVED ARE CONVENTION? YOU TODAY? No, but it feels like I'm all in. I support it because I'm SO Alpha Chi Omega in any excited, and I've missed way I can because sisters Yes! I can't wait to be this opportunity supported me. together in person and to celebrate our connect with my sisters! sisterhood in person! I follow Alpha Chi Omega online but would like to spend more time supporting and connecting with other real, strong women. HONOR SISTERS WITH A BECOME A STAR STAR FROM STAR BOOTH CHALLENGE CAMPAIGN AT CONVENTION. AMBASSADOR VISIT WWW.ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG/STARCHALLENGE TO JOIN THE FUN! THE LYRE 25 FOUNDATION Foundation, Faith, Family and Forever Sisterhood BY JENNIFER WRIGHT SHERMAN (GAMMA RHO, TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY) A t Texas Tech, the sky was always big, football was a way of life and taking pictures in a cotton field was a rite of passage. Growing up, I had everything I needed. It wasn't until I was older that I really understood the value and importance of a strong foundation. I have been blessed with two wonderful girls, Peyton (12) and Graycie (9). Peyton was diagnosed with Schwachman-Diamond Syndrome, and in September 2020, she underwent a successful bone marrow transplant in Houston, Texas - 10 hours away from our home in Lubbock. This was the first time my life had been SO majorly impacted. How will I make all this work? What will my baby go through? And how could we pay all our bills while maintaining two households? At the start of Peyton's treatment, my mom dropped us off at the hospital. There were many questions racing through my mind, and we didn't know where we were going to live after treatment. We had no car, and no one could come in or out of the hospital because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The details of Peyton's transplant are still too painful for JENNIFER (LEFT) WITH HER DAUGHTERS PEYTON (TOP me to discuss, but the important thing is the transplant RIGHT) AND GRAYCIE (BOTTOM RIGHT) was successful. Once Peyton was able to leave her initial stay at the hospital, we were blessed to find a temporary Houston three to four times a week, and figuring out furnished duplex for children with medical problems how we were going to financially keep afloat. called Project Hope & Joy in Pasadena, Texas. This was a huge relief. During this time, my collegiate recruitment advisor, Leslie Luecke Moss (Gamma Rho, Texas Tech The first few months at the duplex were a blur. Peyton University), reached out and suggested I apply for a and I were homesick, we missed Graycie, and Peyton member assistance grant from the Alpha Chi Omega was still connected to a lot of devices. I was working, Foundation. Because of the grant and the support of my taking care of Peyton and taking her back and forth to sisters, we were able to cover our rent in Pasadena for 26 ALPHA CHI OMEGA ABOUT PEYTON AND GRAYCIE, IN JENNIFER'S WORDS "My Alpha Chi Omega sisters have played a huge role in supporting PEYTON IS 12 YEARS OLD. SHE IS me and my family - and helping to AMAZING AND THE MOST strengthen my foundation." CREATIVE PERSON I HAVE EVER MET. SHE HAS HER OWN STORY COLLECTION THAT SHE four months - furniture, a washer and dryer, a kitchen, DRAWS, WRITES TV, room for visitors SO that my family and girls could AND CREATES visit and we could be together. A clean, SAFE place VOICES FOR THE things that we take for granted each day. CHARACTERS (SEE A SAMPLE My Alpha Chi Omega sisters have played a huge role HERE!). ALL OF HER CHARACTERS EVEN in supporting me and my family - and helping to HAVE ORIGIN STORIES. strengthen my foundation. PEYTON IS VERY BRAVE, oh wow LOVING AND MESSY. SHE We ended up staying in Houston longer than LOVES GOD, ANIMALS anticipated due to complications, and once again, AND HER FAMILY, AND I found myself wondering how we were going to SHE HAS A HUGE HEART. Well PEYTON HAD A BONE financially keep afloat. How long could we maintain MARROW TRANSPLANT IN this? My most valuable asset in my heart is my family SEPTEMBER 2020. farm that was bought in 1911, strangely enough from an Alpha Chi Omega sister's family. The thought of selling it broke my heart, but I would do anything to GRAYCIE IS 9 YEARS OLD, AND provide for my family. SHE HAS OFTEN BEEN ACCUSED I hardly check my personal email, and one night I was OF BEING "BOSSY." scrolling and saw an email from the Foundation saying I MAKE SURE we had been approved for an additional grant! I cannot THAT SHE KNOWS tell you how amazing that felt. I literally sat down and SHE HAS GREAT "LEADERSHIP cried. With the help of the Foundation, donations, SKILLS." HER fundraisers, savings and financial support from my DAYCARE TEACHER family, I was able to get back to somewhat of a normal CALLED HER THE life without having to sell the farm, my foundation. "SUPERVISOR" BECAUSE SHE MADE SURE THAT Today, my girls are healthy, happy and full of ALL THE OTHER KIDS WERE CLEANING personality! In the future, I would love to see them THE TABLES PROPERLY. SHE IS FUN, continue to experience the love, sisterhood and purpose QUITE TALKATIVE, VERY HELPFUL, KIND of Alpha Chi Omega. Our sisterhood has helped AND MAKES WONDERFUL GRADES. SHE IS restrengthen my foundation, and just like my beloved ALSO VERY FUNNY AND BRAVE LIKE HER family farm, it restores and helps grow new life each BIG SISTER. season. THE LYRE 27 #AXOUNCOMMON Something big is coming The Alpha Chi Omega Foundation has been keeping a secret, and we're untying the strings on Fuly 9! Join us virtually* on July 9, 2022 at 5 p.m. EDT /4 p.m. CDT /3 p.m. MDT / 2 p.m. PDT for an uncommon announcement. Every Alpha Chi Omega has her own story of how sisterhood helped her become the real, strong woman she is today. The common bond we share unites us as a sisterhood and as members of an organization of real, strong women. That bond has left an uncommon impact on every Alpha Chi Omega sister and empowers her to make an impact on the world around her. DON'T MISS OUT! SCAN THE QR CODE TO REGISTER FOR OUR VIRTUAL EVENT. Step 1: Pull out your phone and go to the camera app. Step 2: Point your camera at the QR code here. Step 3: Click the link to register for the event! *Don't worry! If you're planning to attend convention, we'll untie the strings for you during our Foundation Luncheon. Alpha Chi Omega FOUNDATION HOUSING GAMMA SIGMA MEMBERS ON CAMPUS Three New NHC Chapters BY ELIZA PAYNE (DELTA CHI, WILLIAM WOODS UNIVERSITY), HOUSING OPERATIONS MANAGER I t has been an exciting and busy year for the The facility was originally constructed in 1935 as a National Housing Corporation, as we transitioned single-family home; today that section of the facility the Gamma Sigma, Iota and Kappa chapter is used for common area spaces and a few bedrooms. facilities from their local house corporations (LHCs) Then in 1963 and again in 1990, two additions were to the NHC. The NHC staff now manages and oversees added onto the house, containing the majority of the these three properties and is responsible for the bedrooms and common area spaces. facilities' needs. During the spring 2022 semester, construction began We are thrilled to welcome all of these chapters, and we on renovations to the current facility, with an expected thank the LHCs for their years of service! finish in the fall. Plans include renovations to the resident bathrooms, bedrooms, and dining areas; new GAMMA SIGMA CHAPTER furniture for the facility; and the addition of an elevator. The house will sleep 47 members, who will be able to The Gamma Sigma chapter at the University of Rhode move into the facility in fall 2022. Island was reestablished in fall 2021, though the chapter facility has been operating prior to that. Managed by a local house corporation before transitioning to the NHC this year, the facility housed another sorority in the interim, which is not an uncommon practice among fraternities and sororities. THE LYRE 29 HOUSING IOTA CHAPTER The University of Illinois at Urbana- TEE Champaign is home to our Iota chapter sisters, and up until 2021, their facility had been managed by a local house corporation. While the chapter was founded in 1899, the facility was built in 1931. In fact, Iota chapter was one of the first to build a facility from the ground up instead of purchasing an already existing structure! The chapter has been in the same facility since then and currently sleeps an impressive 51 members. THE IOTA CHAPTER HOUSE KAPPA CHAPTER Our Kappa chapter at the University of Wisconsin-Madison transitioned to the NHC in May. The facility currently sleeps 62 members. A wonderful perk of this house is the abundance of common area space for members to enjoy, whether they live in the facility or not. These spaces offer our Kappa sisters the chance to connect in person, study and relax. THE KAPPA CHAPTER HOUSE NHC STAFF TERRITORY ALIGNMENT NHC SUPPORT THE NHC IS EXCITED TO WELCOME NEW STAFF MEMBERS TO OUR TEAM! IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR CHAPTER FACILITY, PLEASE REFERENCE OUR MAP FOR YOUR HOUSING MANAGER. ELIZA PAYNE EDEN SANDERS (epayne@alphachiomega.org) (esanders@alphachiomega.org) ASHTON DAVIS EMELINE HANSEN THOMPSON (adavis@alphachiomega.org) (ethompson@alphachiomega.org) 30 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Facility Focus KAPPA SIGMA The Kappa Sigma chapter had an update to its facility, (THE UNIVERSITY OF including the chapter room and foyer spaces. Here are some before and after pictures showing the work that SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI) the NHC completed! BEFORE AFTER THE KAPPA SIGMA CHAPTER ROOM PRIOR TO THE FURNITURE UPGRADE AFTER THESE OTTOMANS ARE A GREAT WAY TO BRING EXTRA SEATING TO THE CHAPTER ROOM WITHOUT CONSUMING TOO MUCH SPACE. LARGE SECTIONALS ARE PERFECT FOR CENTERING A ROOM AND ALSO MAKE THE BEST NAPPING SPOTS! THE LYRE 31 2/3 ON CAMPUS Back to Basics: Sisterhood in 2022 BY GRACE GARDNER (THETA UPSILON, UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA), ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION AND LEADERSHIP INITIATIVES n the 137 years since Alpha Chi Omega's founding, "This semester of school has been one of the best I a lot has changed. But as much as we've adapted semesters because I have been able to see my sisters SO and grown, the founding principles of our much more, and it makes our sorority a much happier sisterhood have always stayed the same. and more exciting environment," Holly shares. Though the Real Strong Women's Brunch required a lot of Each year, newly elected collegiate officers ponder the planning, Holly same question, "How do we strengthen the sisterhood encourages in our chapter?" When confronted with the additional other chapters challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, chapters had to to "plan ALPHA CHLOMEGA go back to basics. Sisterhood was found in roommates, as many small gatherings and virtual hangouts. sisterhood events as As the world begins to open back up, the "answer" possible, to strengthening sisterhood is still that simple. even if the What we see and appreciate now more than ever is events are that, at the end of the day, being together is what just grabbing matters. Sisterhood does not have to be a new event, dinner or a revolutionary idea or a bright and shiny thing. It's going to see REAL STRONG in small moments shared with one another and the WOMEN'S BRUNCH support lent in both good times and bad. Kappa Rho (University of North Carolina at Charlotte) ABOVE: NAYELI was able to return to hosting its Real Strong Women's CHOWDHURY Brunch this semester, planned by Vice President (CENTER) WITH HER Membership Programming Holly Wheet and Real REAL, STRONG Strong Women's Brunch Chair Anna Sirico. This event, WOMEN a chapter favorite, encourages every chapter member to invite a real, strong woman from her life to get an LEFT: VP MP inside look at the sisterhood of Alpha Chi Omega. HOLLY WHEET (RIGHT) WITH ONE OF THE As Holly explains, "This event opens their eyes to see REAL, STRONG who we are and what we do to better our community, WOMEN IN HER as well as how we are shaping ourselves into real, strong LIFE women." The event also includes a raffle benefitting Safe Alliance, a domestic violence and sexual assault organization in Charlotte, North Carolina. 32 ALPHA CHI OMEGA ABOVE: THE THETA SIGMA CHAPTER DURING THE RETREAT other better and be there for each other as sisters. The group activities added to the fun because, Genesis BELOW: VP MP GENESIS ERNEST (CENTER) ENJOYING SOME explains, the chapter had been craving this kind of in- SISTERHOOD TIME person connection. Genesis encourages other chapters a movie together. to listen to what their members want from events; as Any time spent she has learned, the best memories are made when with sisters is leaders "listen to what sisters want out of their time in an opportunity Alpha Chi Omega." to build better bonds with them As a national organization, Alpha Chi Omega is and make the committed to providing our members and leaders with sorority feel more the best tools and resources available to strengthen the connected." bonds of our sisterhood. We encourage members to celebrate sisterhood through experiences like sisterhood Just south in events and member retreats, with the national Jacksonville, Florida, organization offering planning guides and resources to when Vice President support leaders in developing programs that meet the Membership individual needs of their chapters. Programming Genesis Ernest Rotational programs - Kaleidoscope, Let's Talk Love, began to plan Theta Sigma's (University of North ASTP and InTune - provide space for sisters to be Florida) biannual chapter retreat, she capitalized on together as a chapter, learn about themselves and the the ability to host the event in person and planned an organization, and have honest conversations with overnight camping event. Sisters kayaked, played field one another. In addition, vice presidents membership games, participated in a SWOT analysis for the chapter, programming are responsible for implementing the watched the sunset together and celebrated their MyJourney program, a peer-facilitated series that helps sisterhood around a bonfire. members grow in wisdom, devotion and achievement. "By the end of the first full day, I felt that we had spent Whether returning to a tried-and-true sisterhood SO much time together that we could really talk to one event or participating in a national program, collegiate another," she remembers. Coming together in this way members are finding ways big and small to reconnect opened up new channels for communication; chapter or make new bonds. At the most basic level, Alpha Chi members shared a space where they could talk about Omega exists to bring women together, and it is only life experiences and how they could get to know each when we are together that we can truly seek the heights. THE LYRE 33 Social Media Role Model HOW ONE SISTER S GROWING IN HER RELATIONSHIP WITH FOOD AND SHARING IT ON TIKTOK BY MICHELLE LEI (ZETA OMICRON, VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY) Content warning: eating disorder, unhealthy body image G rowing up, Annika Swanson (Alpha Mu, Indiana University) had big dreams of becoming a CEO or running her own ANNIKA SWANSON business. After finishing her sophomore year of college, Annika is well on her way to defining her own path as a foods as "good" or "bad," Annika began listening to her real, strong woman - she is a triple major in the Kelley body's natural hunger cues and eating what and how Business School, was president of Indiana University's much feels right to her. However, it wasn't until college Women & Co. organization and even manages her own that Fitness by Anni was born. successful social media brand, Fitness by Anni. "I had always wanted to start a social media platform, Annika's health and fitness journey began in but it wasn't until after high school that I was like, 'you elementary and middle school as a flyer for a private all- only live once, and stopped being scared," she says. "I star cheerleading team. She quickly realized her coaches want to be the role model online that I wish I had as a favored flyers with a smaller weight and body size over kid." talent, SO she turned to the Internet for weight loss and exercise tips, believing and following much of the This past school year, Annika lived in the chapter house, damaging information she read. which allowed her to combine her love of fitness and Alpha Chi Omega. She began regularly posting on "I became aware of my weight very young, and all of TikTok, a social media platform where users can create that impacted me a lot and gave me a skewed version of and watch a curated page of short-form videos, most what a healthy lifestyle is," Annika shares. 15-30 seconds long. Recognizing how much viewers loved sorority content, Annika soon went viral with her Upon entering high school, Annika quit cheerleading, "What I eat in a day living in my sorority house" videos. joined her school's swimming and water polo teams and began seeing a dietician who helped her develop a She filmed almost daily, shooting clips of her plate healthier relationship with food. She learned about and at every meal and other snacks she had throughout began to practice intuitive eating - rather than labeling the day. Before going to bed, she would watch the 34 ALPHA CHI OMEGA video back in real-time and add voiceover narration describing everything she ate. "I want to be the role model "All my captions are about food positivity and online that I wish I had as a kid." listening to your body," Annika emphasizes. Because Annika knows firsthand how content creators can inadvertently promote unhealthy or unrealistic expectations with these types of videos, she has been careful to not mention calorie count or label foods with she simply isn't as hungry one day or accidentally skips diet-related phrases (e.g., fat-free, sugar-free, etc.) since breakfast due to sleeping in, she'll include a disclaimer that information doesn't always correlate with being in the caption or not post a video from that particular healthier. Her food intake differs every day as well, SO if day to ensure she isn't promoting unhealthy eating habits. A SCREENSHOT OF ONE OF ANNIKA'S TIKTOKS, SHOWING THE ALPHA MU CHAPTER HOUSE Despite having more than 67,600 followers and 4 million likes on TikTok, Annika doesn't openly share that she's the creator behind the account. But social media fame spreads quickly on a college campus, and she counts her sisters as some of her biggest supporters. What I eat in a day living in "They're constantly asking me about my TikTok, and if something exciting happens to me, they'll send it in my sorority house our member class group chat to congratulate and hype me up, like when I was featured in a Snapchat episode," Part 3 she recalls. A few of her sisters have joined in on the TikTok fun as well, from making cameos in "What I eat in a day" videos to lip syncing together to Lady Gaga's "Telephone." While living in the chapter house has allowed Annika to continue growing Fitness by Anni, it's the time together with sisters she's enjoyed the most. "I genuinely love living in the house, and I'm sad that I won't be able to live here in the future," she shares. "It's a great way to be close to the entire chapter because you live with them and get to see them all the time." The chapter house has an open-door policy, and sisters won't start sitting at a new dining room table unless all others are full, which continuously promotes a welcoming and inclusive environment. Annika adds, "I wish we could live in the house all four years because I feel like I don't have enough time with my sisters since I love them SO much." You can follow Annika at her bandle @FitnessByAnni on TikTok and Instagram. THE LYRE 35 LIFE Alpha Chi On Surprise Sister Connections A lpha Chi Omega brings together women who help each other seek the heights. We asked you on social media, "Where is the most surprising place you've met a sister?" Was it at the airport when you saw another woman wearing our letters? Was it at a job interview when you mentioned your sorority leadership experience? With more than 300,000 initiated members, it's more than likely that wherever you go or whatever you hope to pursue, there's an Alpha Chi Omega there to help you! We'll be sharing more stories of sister connections on alphachiomegablog.org. If you have a story to tell, let us know by emailing editor@alphachiomega.org. "Two expats in Switzerland, both members of the Swiss-American Society." {We found each other through ] a random sighting of an AXQ key chain! 'OMG, we are sisters,' across the pond." ~ ALLYSON VANDER BROEK (DELTA SIGMA, UNIVERSITY OF THE PACIFIC) "I was shopping at Costco and wearing my grandmother's wedding ring, which had a hinge "I got a new work partner, and I was quite nervous. I closure in the band because she had arthritis. met her and immediately clicked with her. Her boss As I was pushing my cart toward the coveted came to work with her that day, and she had forgotten toilet paper, I heard, 'clink, clink, clink.'I looked some supplies that she needed. I just happened to down, and the ring had fallen off my finger! A have them in my car. It saved the day. We celebrated group of people stopped to help me, but one over dinner, and we found out we went to the same lady was incredible! She looked on the floor, university - and we both were Alpha Chi Omega in my coat, in my purse, etc. She said a prayer. sorority sisters. We were screaming. Fifteen years later, Boom! My ring was found (dangling in my we are still best friends." cart!). That lovely lady was an Alpha Chi Omega from Miami University around the time I was at ~ BROOK RADNOR the University of Cincinnati in the 1980s!! We (GAMMA OMICRON, MARSHALL UNIVERSITY) hugged (during COVID!) and were SO happy. Sisters find and help each other!" "This past school year, I have had the honor of mentoring an SLP clinical fellow, Kyla, a fellow ~ VICTORIA EDWARDS Alpha Chi Butler sister." (ALPHA DELTA, UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI) ~ SARAH ALLISON MILLIKAN (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY) 36 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Alpha Chi Omega Alpha Chi Omega "I have had a few 'small world' instances when I have met sisters in the most unsuspecting of places. When I was still in college, I pursed an internship at a local health foundation. When I was interviewing, the interviewer shared that she was also an Alpha Chi from the Kappa Lambda chapter. I interned for her for a year, and now seven years later, I work with her as my supervisor at an independent private school. My boyfriend and I met when we were in college. The very first time we talked, I was asking him if he was involved in Greek life, and he said no. I continued to share with him that I was an Alpha Chi, and he said, "When I lived in Florida, I was taking a coworker, "That's the sorority my sister and aunt are Alycia Seevers, out to lunch. She worked at a different in!" Because he wasn't in Greek life, I wasn't office, SO I went to pick her up. I had recently been at sure if he was confusing AXO with another a Delta Pi Delta event, and we were given Alpha Chi sorority (just because it can be confusing if you Omega pens. I had one in my car in case I needed a aren't in Greek life). I asked him to confirm pen. So I picked up my coworker, we got in my car, with his sister, and she and his aunt are in fact and she saw the pen and squealed! She too was an Alpha Chi sisters." Alpha Chi Omega! So I immediately invited her to attend the next Delta Pi Delta event and she did! We ~ SHANNON MERRILL served as advisors together when Florida Gulf Coast (KAPPA LAMBDA, UNIVERSITY OF SAN DIEGO) University established a chapter. I no longer live in Florida, but we still keep in touch!" "In April 2021, I was giving shots at a Walmart ~ SASHA WILLIAMS COVID immunization clinic in Atchison, Kansas. (EPSILON, UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN One of the patients that day was a young lady CALIFORNIA) from Kansas City. She saw the AXO pop socket on my phone and told me she was an Alpha Chi "I was sitting in a particularly long line at the from Wisconsin. Small world. I live 45 minutes drive-through, and someone honked at me. I north of Atchison and she was from Overland rolled down my window to look, and a woman Park, Kansas, and we were both in same small yelled, 'Hey, Alpha Chi!' It was an alumna town at the same time!" who had seen the AXQ sticker on my car. We talked for a while about our experiences in the ~ KIM NOLTE chapter." (GAMMA ZETA, KANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY) ~ MADELINE MACE (GAMMA OMICRON, MARSHALL UNIVERSITY) THE LYRE 37 LIFE Recognizing Our Sisters A S part of Alpha Chi Omega's continued commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, we strive to maximize How I celebrate WHAT ARE YOU MOST EXCITED communication channels to share TO SHARE WITH YOUR SISTERS HANUKKAH critical content. One of those ways is ABOUT BLACK HISTORY MONTH? ANNA GUSTAFSON (EPSILON, UNIVERSITY intentional social media highlights OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA) focused on honoring and learning "Some of my about our diverse membership. traditions include making latkes (potato In addition to recognizing a wide pancakes) from my great aunt's range of holidays important to our recipe and eating members, our social media channels them with applesauce and highlight heritage and identity sour cream." recognition events through education "I like to give about the events' history and impact "Black History Month taught me how to truly my friends gelt love myself and my skin. When I was young, I (chocolate coins) and through members sharing how thought that being Black was unfair and I tried and teach them their heritage or identity has been changing myself SO I could fit in with others, but how to play amazing Black women leaders like Maya dreidel. We also part of their Alpha Chi Omega Angelou and Michelle Obama made me realize light one candle that my skin is a gift and I should embrace it." on the menorah experience. each night for eight nights." To share your story for one of the recognition months below or about another aspect of your identity, email editor@alphachiomega.org You could be featured on our blog or on social media, like these sisters! WHAT DREW YOU TO How Icelebrate ALPHA CHI OMEGA? RECOGNITION MONTH CALENDAR DIWALI ISHANI CHETAL (GAMMA PI, UNIVERSITY OF TAMPA) FEBRUARY BLACK HISTORY "On Diwali, my parents and I dress up in MONTH traditional Indian clothing and go to a party with family and friends. At the party, we all MARCH WOMEN'S HISTORY either sing, dance or showcase our talents in MONTH some way. This is one of my favorite holidays MAY ASIAN AMERICAN and Diwali has always had a special place in my heart." AND PACIFIC ISLANDER HERITAGE MONTH JUNE LGBTQ PRIDE MONTH SEPT. 15 - HISPANIC HERITAGE "When I walked into the Alpha Chi house OCT. 15 MONTH at my school during recruitment, NOVEMBER NATIVE AMERICAN I immediately knew it was where I was supposed to be. Being Hispanic and bisexual HERITAGE MONTH made me nervous about what Greek life would be like for me, but when I met the sisters in Alpha Chi Omega, I saw women 38 CHI OMEGA Ishani with her who looked and acted like me, and I wanted family to be a part of that." INDUSTRY INFO Together as Sorority BY LAUREN FILIPPINI (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER, WITH HELP FROM EMILY MARTIN (THETA UPSILON, UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA), EVENTS MANAGER hen you join a sorority, you enter a "From my perspective, togetherness for NPC really W community. You have chapter sisters to means the way we can leverage our collective strength laugh and cry with, an alumnae network to advocate for and promote the sorority experience as to help you pursue your dreams and even a national a whole," Jen explains. "Because while it is important sorority that connects you to sisters coast to coast and that each member organization strives to be its best beyond! But have you ever thought about the even and each chapter strives to reach its full potential, it's larger sisterhood you're part of? important that as a community we're helping one another reach our goals as well." When you accepted your bid to your chapter, you also joined the Panhellenic community. As the National How can we do that? Jen suggests that collegians let Panhellenic Conference (NPC) vision states, we are all potential new members (and others!) know what makes "advancing the sorority experience together." We come them proud to be in a sorority, whether it's learning to together as nearly 5 million sorority women across the manage an officer budget or having a sister notice your world. potential that you didn't even see in yourself. For our alumnae members, Jen recommends they share openly Jen Daurora (Delta, Allegheny College) serves on the with their networks that they're sorority women. She NPC Board of Directors and points out that no matter also explains that it's important to articulate broad which of the 26 NPC member organizations we are benefits; the collegiate experience you had might look members of, we all have shared experiences including very different for today's student, but the opportunities leadership opportunities, education and the ability to and lessons are far-reaching. support our communities through philanthropy and service. And most importantly, she adds, "I think the Of course, while we all share a sorority experience, underpinning of women supporting women rings true we also each have a story. And your story - with all throughout the NPC experience." of its nuances and lessons and moments that make it distinctly yours - is a powerful piece of advocating for We strive to uplift our sisters in all their endeavors, the experience. and our empowerment can extend to the Panhellenic community. It's why our collegiate chapters have "Be proud of what you've gained from this experience," Panhellenic delegates to connect the Alpha Chi Omega Jen says, "and tell your own story." chapter to the larger campus, and why many cities have Alumnae Panhellenics to bring together women from all organizations for networking and making a difference. "I think the underpinning of women In a time when some are questioning the value of the sorority experience, we can work together as sorority supporting women rings true women to share the benefits we've received and that throughout the NPC experience." others can obtain if they are open to the experience. THE LYRE 39 MAKING A DIFFERENCE A Lifetime of Impact BY LAUREN FILIPPINI (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER Content warning: alcobolism and addiction Maureen adds, "I enjoyed working with aureen Heekin (Alpha Omicron, The Ohio the clients." M State University) is proving that retirement doesn't have to mean slowing down; in fact, While Maureen it may be the perfect time to increase your impact! worked on child abuse and neglect Maureen found her passion for helping others at an cases throughout early age. She was a babysitter in her teenage years and the 1980s and could never forget the siblings she watched who she felt 1990s, another were being neglected by their parents. When Maureen interconnected went to college, she decided to pursue a career where issue was just she could help children like them. starting to enter the conversation MAUREEN HEEKIN However, Miami University, where Maureen had more loudly: decided to attend, had only a sociology program, SO a domestic violence. few years into college, she transferred to The Ohio State Some of the children Maureen worked with came University to pursue a degree in social work. It was from homes where domestic violence was prominent; there that she joined Alpha Chi Omega. she remembers seeing many women go back to their abusers over and over, unable to escape the cycle of "I enjoyed the friendship and camaraderie, especially violence. Maureen is glad to see people - and Alpha at a big school like Ohio State," Maureen remembers. "I Chi Omega - talk openly and publicly about domestic lived in the house and had a wonderful time with the violence today. sisters. I still am in touch with my little sister." When Maureen decided to retire, she knew she wasn't When Maureen graduated, she began her social work done making an impact. She began volunteering with career, which kept her busy for the next three decades. First Step Home, an addiction treatment center for Her focus was in children's services, where she helped women and their children in Cincinnati. It started out in cases of child abuse and neglect. She later worked for in the 1990s as a small shelter for women to come with 241-KIDS, a 24-hour child abuse hotline line operated their kids while they were in recovery from substance by Hamilton County Children's Services in Ohio. abuse, eliminating the choice for women to decide Maureen's role included answering the phones and between treatment and their children. taking information from people reporting concerns to investigating abuse reports throughout the area. Fighting against the stigma of addiction and recognizing the complexities of substance abuse, the "You just never knew what the next call might be. You nonprofit has grown to 12 buildings, multiple housing didn't know what to expect on your shift," she says. options, inpatient and outpatient treatment, counseling, But even though the work was emotionally draining, education, childcare and support of all kinds. 40 ALPHA CHI OMEGA nonprofit is in competition with for-profit companies and treatments. "You just never knew In particular, Maureen is glad to see First Step Home now able to provide medical care to support women in what the next call safe withdrawal SO they can continue treatment, as well as the existence of a home specifically for women with might be. You didn't newborns and a direct partnership with local hospitals. All those years ago, Maureen entered the social work know what to expect profession with a simple goal: "I wanted to help people," she recalls. She reached her goal professionally and on your shift." continues to pursue that through her retirement as she makes a difference for women and children in her city. "Healing begins when you face addiction with SUBSTANCE ABUSE STATISTICS knowledgeable and supportive help," First Step Home's website explains. "We know that no woman wants to INFORMATION FROM THE 2020 NATIONAL SURVEY ON put her baby at risk, but we also understand addiction is DRUG USE AND HEALTH BY THE SUBSTANCE ABUSE AND MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES ADMINISTRATION (SAMHSA) a brain disease." 50% (138.5 MILLION) OF PEOPLE AGED 12 OR OLDER This fact - that addiction is a disease - is something USED ALCOHOL IN THE PAST MONTH. Maureen is passionate about sharing with people. She is in recovery for alcoholism and has a history of the AMONG THOSE WHO WERE CURRENT ALCOHOL disease in her family. USERS, 61.6 MILLION PEOPLE WERE CLASSIFIED AS BINGE DRINKERS AND 17.7 MILLION PEOPLE WERE CLASSIFIED AS HEAVY DRINKERS. "I was determined not to be like {them]," she says, explaining that she developed alcoholism without even 14.5% (40.3 MILLION) OF PEOPLE AGED 12 OR OLDER realizing it herself. The disease progressed to the point HAD A SUBSTANCE USE DISORDER IN THE PAST that she needed a liver transplant. "It's a blessing that YEAR, INCLUDING 28.3 MILLION WITH ALCOHOL USE I've been able to continue and live a fairly normal life." DISORDER AND 18.4 MILLION WITH AN ILLICIT DRUG USE DISORDER. Addiction and substance abuse take hold and impact all IN QUARTER 4 OF 2020, 25.9 MILLION USERS OF areas of life. Maureen is very clear about why support ALCOHOL AND 10.9 MILLION USERS OF DRUGS and services are necessary: "People don't want to OTHER THAN ALCOHOL PERCEIVED THAT THEY become addicts or alcoholics." WERE USING THESE SUBSTANCES "A LITTLE MORE OR MUCH MORE" THAN THEY DID BEFORE THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC BEGAN. Maureen now serves on First Step Home's board, helping with the strategic direction of the organization. IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW NEEDS SUPPORT Her own experience with the disease and recovery WITH SUBSTANCE ABUSE, VISIST SAMHSA. GOV FOR help her connect and empathize with the women RESOURCES AND A TREATMENT LOCATOR. the organization serves. She's proud that services are always being expanded and improved, especially as the THE LYRE 41 CAREER OUTLOOK AXQ AX The Alpha Chi Network LEVERAGING CONNECTIONS WITH SISTERS BY ARIANNA BRADLEY (KAPPA XI, UNIVERSITY OF WEST FLORIDA), I's Women & Wisdom Sign in DIRECTOR OF LIFETIME ENGAGEMENT F or SO many of our members, becoming part of a network of women was one of the many reasons for wanting to join a sorority. During recruitment, a benefit communicated often is the network of accomplished women who share connections and support each other post-college. By saying yes to sorority, you joined this prestigious Women & network! The Alpha Chi network is more than just a benefit of Wisdom: membership. Our network of real, strong women goes a step further. Women empowering women is at the core Alpha Chi of Alpha Chi Omega, and we are committed to creating spaces for sisters to come together in support of one another. Omega's "More than anything, the Alpha Chi network has given Network of me the confidence to chase my dreams," says Stacia Giese (Delta Rho, University of Arkansas). "Knowing that when I'm figuring out what's next for my career Real, Strong there will be women I can turn to is SO valuable." Women What begins as introductions to new friends, help with classes and invitations to get involved in student organizations grows to sharing about job opportunities, JOIN NOW connecting sisters to other Alpha Chi Omegas in a new city and giving advice on all the things that life throws our way - all SO that we can live and grow as real, strong THE HOME PAGE OF THE WOMEN & WISDOM APP women. One of the best parts of the far-reaching Alpha Chi a new position with my company, it turned out my network is that no matter where you want to go, there manager was also an Alpha Chi Omega, and it was one is probably a sister who has been there before or is of those moments where I felt like, 'Wow, we really are there now, ready and willing to help you! Stacia has everywhere." experienced this firsthand; she shares, "When I took 42 ALPHA CHI OMEGA AXQ AXQ AXQ AXQ WOMEN & WISDOM LEVERAGING YOUR NETWORK Women & Wisdom: Alpha Chi Omega's Network Women & Wisdom is one of the many ways Alpha Chi of Real, Strong Women is our exclusive community Omega is empowering members to reach their promoting the personal and professional development potential through the Real. Strong. Women. Experience. of our members. Alpha Chi Omega has delivered this powerful tool, but it is up to you to leverage the resources and support Whether you're applying for advanced education like available. law school, medical school or graduate school, starting your job search, moving to a new city, becoming a From virtual and in-person events to online groups, working mom, starting your own business or looking the business directory, and a jobs and opportunities toward retirement, there are Alpha Chi Omegas willing board, there is something for every sister in Women & to share their wisdom to help you along your journey! Wisdom. "For sisters who seek mentorship and networking, I Alpha Chi Omega also provides opportunities for one- recommend using Women & Wisdom and reaching out on-one networking. Through structured mentoring to sisters on the platform," suggests Ashley Wasserman experiences (like our recent Monthlong Mentor (Nu, University of Colorado Boulder). "Alpha Chis are Program or the upcoming Convention Connections) truly amazing women, and we have a special bond and flash mentoring offerings available at any time, together SO most sisters are willing to help!" alumnae can give back in support of others while sisters seek the help they are looking for. Some of our flash In our online network alone, Women & Wisdom mentoring offerings that members can pursue any time boasts more than 1,750 women raising their hands to through the platform include informational interviews, offer help and mentorship to other sisters. This online resume reviews, internships, career advice, opening platform, found at womenandwisdom.org, showcases doors at a workplace, making professional connections member profiles through a curated, searchable and more. directory. Members can share more about their backgrounds, education, career and areas of expertise, "I joined Women & Wisdom because I loved how it allowing others to use filters to find sisters they want was an internal networking platform for the women to connect with. Easily connect with sisters from of Alpha Chi Omega. In today's world, networking is your chapter of initiation, in your industry, near your critical for career success!" Ashley explains. "Alpha Chi location or with similar interests using the variety of Omega has SO many real, strong women, and I wanted filters and search features available. to join the platform SO I can meet more sisters and learn from them." With the push of a button, you'll be messaging sisters in no time! Our sisters-only network will even recommend Alumnae can share how they are willing to help and connections for you. This is your one-stop shop for mentor through their online profile. Collegians and networking and meeting other Alpha Chi Omegas! other alumnae can then use the directory to search 2,500 70% SISTERS ARE CONNECTING ALL OVER THE WORLD, SISTERS ARE IN OUR OF OUR NETWORK INCLUDING THE U.S., FRANCE, WOMEN & WISDOM NETWORK. IS WILLING TO HELP. THE U.K., GERMANY, GREECE, THAILAND AND JAPAN. THE LYRE 43 CAREER OUTLOOK HEAR FROM SOME OF for members offering support and send a request OUR SISTERS ABOUT THE directly in the system. We even have templates CONNECTIONS THEY FOUND available in our Resources section to help make the THROUGH WOMEN & WISDOM ask as easy as possible. We have taken what can be an overwhelming and daunting process to make MENTOR EXPERIENCES networking with other sisters accessible and easy! "KATIE PRIMROSE AND I SPOKE YESTERDAY. WE HAD WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU? A GREAT DISCUSSION ABOUT SOME OPTIONS FOR KATIE TO CONSIDER WITH HER JOB SEARCH, THEN No matter what phase of life you are in, there is WE DUG INTO HER ALREADY FANTASTIC LINKEDIN nothing better than knowing sisters are there to PROFILE. SHE'S WELL ON HER WAY TO NETWORKING AND JOB SEARCHING, AND I'M EXCITED TO SEE HER support you. That is what makes our Alpha Chi HONE HER PROCESS TO GET EXACTLY WHAT SHE network SO powerful! SEEKS." - LIZ FRIESE (DELTA LAMBDA, RIPON COLLEGE) We often focus on the professional development and career advancement support available, and yet we "HAD A FABULOUS DISCUSSION WITH MY MENTEE know that some of the most valuable advice we can LAST WEEK. WE ALREADY HAVE A FOLLOW-UP CALL ON THE CALENDAR!" receive is from sisters who have lived something first. - LESLIE BLOCK (THETA TAU, RUTGERS UNIVERSITY) Getting to have the "real talk" about navigating life's challenges and striving to seek the heights as real, MENTEE EXPERIENCES strong women is truly the heart of what Women & Wisdom and our Alpha Chi network are all about! "HAD A WONDERFUL CONVERSATION WITH LIZ FRIESE EARLIER THIS WEEK - SHE WAS SO GRACIOUS "I've learned in my career how important networking IN SHARING HER TIME AND EXPERTISE WHEN IT CAME is, SO I'm always looking to meet new sisters in my TO ALL THINGS RELATED TO A FIRST FULL-TIME JOB SEARCH. GRATEFUL FOR HER AND FOR THE CHANCE industry and elsewhere," Stacia says. "I'm also glad to TO CONNECT!" finally be in a place in my career where I can offer - KATIE PRIMROSE (PSI, THE UNIVERSITY OF someone that connection, that warm introduction, OKLAHOMA) or that piece of advice or resume review as they prep to go to graduate school or make a big leap in their "I HAD A REALLY INTERESTING AND GOOD INFO- career." FILLED MEETING WITH MY MENTOR LAST WEEK. IT WAS FASCINATING TO SEE THE FLOW OF HER CAREER AND HOW IT'S ALL COME TOGETHER." How will you share your wisdom to support - MICHELE DONER (BETA LAMBDA, UNIVERSITY OF generations of real, strong women in reaching their ARIZONA) fullest potential? How will you enrich our members as they accomplish amazing things in their personal "I'M NEW TO THE CORPORATE WORLD AND RECENTLY lives, with others and in the world around them? WAS PROMOTED INTO A MANAGERIAL POSITION. How will you advance your personal development? I KNEW I COULD BENEFIT FROM A MENTOR, BUT HAVING AN ALPHA CHI OMEGA MENTOR MADE THE How will you leverage this network of real, strong EXPERIENCE EVEN MORE SPECIAL. MY MENTOR JAN women as you invest in your own growth? IS AN ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT COACH. IN THE SHORT TIME I'VE WORKED WITH HER, I'VE Connect with Alpha Chi Omega sisters embracing DEVELOPED MORE CONFIDENCE IN MYSELF AND MY their ambitions and join together in our network MANAGEMENT STYLE!" where you and your sisters can lead and succeed! - EMILY WASSERMAN (NU, UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO BOULDER) 44 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Women & Wisdom ALPHA CHI OMEGA'S NETWORK OF REAL, STRONG WOMEN YOUR ONE-STOP PLATFORM FOR PERSONAL GROWTH, GROUPS PROFESSIONAL ADVANCEMENT, MENTORSHIP AND COMMUNITY Join together with Are you sisters sharing similar interests, careers, backgrounds and more an ALUMNA looking to network with sisters within and outside of your field? in our many groups a COLLEGIAN wanting support from a sister to review your resume? available on Women & a MEMBER exploring open job, internship or volunteer opportunities? Wisdom! an ENTREPRENEUR hoping to promote your sister-owned business? Visit the Groups a MANAGER seeking applicants to join your team? section on the Women a SISTER looking for empowering community or career advice? & Wisdom platform to view and join current With Women & Wisdom, you can find mentoring, events, groups, open opportunities, groups. Some of our most popular groups member and business directories, and connections with sisters sharing your interests include Sisters in and experiences. Education, Alpha Chi Young Professionals If you are looking to empower and support sisters in reaching their fullest potential, all and Sisters in STEM. while investing in your own personal and professional growth, Women & Wisdom Don't see a group you're is for you! looking for? Sisters are invited to create their START CONNECTING AT WOMENANDWISDOM.ORG! own groups as well! NETWORK In case you missed it WHILE YOU'RE ON THE GO! A panel of sisters shared their advice on preparing for summer internships. It was a great opportunity for members, especially our collegians, to Download the hear tips for success! M Graduway app and search Alumnae and collegians gathered for two virtual networking nights "Alpha Chi Omega" to this spring. Many connections were made, and we look forward to hosting access our Women & even more networking nights in the future! Wisdom network in the palm of your hand. Scan the QR code to Women & Wisdom download SERIES Find past SERIES recordings and more at now! WOMENANDWISDOM.ORG/RESOURCES VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT Haley Moss ZETA THETA (BROWN UNIVERSITY) CURRENT ROLES: Zeta Theta (Brown University) recruitment advisor and finance advisor, Iota Nu (University of California San Diego) finance advisor n each issue of The Lyre, we highlight one of our How do you balance I volunteers. Read about Haley's experience as a your volunteer roles positional advisor and be inspired to get involved and other competing yourself! priorities? I keep a really detailed Why do you choose to remain involved with the paper and virtual organization? calendar. It's the only I loved my time in Alpha Chi Omega as a collegian. way I can keep track I made lifelong friends and learned skills I still use of everything. I've also today as a medical student. I had a fantastic advisor as a found that virtual collegian, SO I figured this would be a good way for me meetings can be just as to stay connected and give back to the organization I productive as in-person really care about. meetings and are much easier to schedule. And Google Drive is a lifesaver! What do you do in your advisory board roles? What have you learned? What is your favorite Alpha Chi Omega memory? I mainly serve as a sounding board for my collegians. My favorite Alpha Chi memory is the night I got to They run ideas about chapter events past me and send meet my littles, who are still my best friends to this day. me general questions on policies and procedures. I've I am SO grateful to have them in my life, and that was learned a lot about different communication and such a fun night! management styles working with collegians and other advisors, which I've found very helpful in other areas of Why should other sisters volunteer to serve as my life. I also love getting to answer questions about life positional advisors? after college. Serving as a positional volunteer is a fun way to not only give back, but it also allows you to help How does volunteering in person differ from young women grow and become the best versions of serving in a remote capacity? themselves. It's great because this role allows you to be I have served as a remote advisor for most of my time in both an advisor and a mentor. It is an easy way to stay these roles even before the pandemic, given my schedule connected to the organization that has given SO much and location. I've found this to be quite easy given the to all of us. It's rewarding, fulfilling and a lot of fun! It's technology available (thanks, Zoom and Google Drive!). also a great way to learn skills and best practices that can be applied to many areas of your life. What is your favorite part of serving as a collegiate advisory board member? If you would like to volunteer with Alpha Chi Omega, log in My favorite part is getting to work with the collegians. to members.alphachiomega.org and select "Profile" and then They are such incredible young women and give me the "Volunteer Interest" tab. Fill out the volunteer interest hope for the future. form to get started! 46 ALPHA CHI OMEGA is Real. Strong Women OF ISTINCTION 2022 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 five winners on the following pages. How will your Alpha Chi Omega journey inspire you? REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. Catherine Pombier Bessant THETA (UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN) F or three years in a row, Catherine Pombier Bessant was named American Bankers' Most Powerful Woman in Banking. For two years in a row, she was named to Barron's "100 Most Influential Women in U.S. Finance" list. After ascending to the highest levels in the banking industry and now working on Bank of America's executive management team as vice chair, global strategy, you would never imagine that the leadership traits Catherine values most in herself came out of losing an election during her collegiate Alpha Chi Omega experience. Although she served Theta chapter as second vice president and pledge trainer during college, Catherine shares, "I ran for president and lost Experiencing failure, picking yourself up and learning from it - that teaches you courage and resilience." Catherine carried those lessons into the workforce and beyond; in 2018, she summitted Mount Kilimanjaro with students from the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan, where she sits on the advisory CATHERINE POMBIER BESSANT board. She credits the "grit and courage" she started to build during college as keys to making it to the top of managed a $10 billion budget and a team of 95,000 the highest free-standing mountain in the world. people across 35 countries to deliver end-to-end technology and operating services. She is a frequent Over her 39-year career, Catherine has worked in speaker at the World Economic Forum and helped every line of business at the bank. In her current start The Council on the Responsible Use of Artificial role as vice chair, Catherine is living in Paris and Intelligence with Harvard University. works with Bank of America's European boards on the integration of global strategy. In her previous As an executive-level leader, Catherine advocates for role as chief operations and technology officer, she equality across the company. She helped create Bank 48 ALPHA CHI OMEGA of America's LGBT Ally network, which now has more than 30,000 members and 35 chapters globally, and is the executive sponsor for the company's Disability Advisory Council. Megan "If we want change for our daughters and the generations who come after us, we have to advocate for it now and to lead the way with positive deeds and actions every single day," Catherine explains. "Advocacy Bull is our duty and our privilege." With a mindset for making the world a better place THETA PI for those who follow, it's no surprise that Catherine (UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, DAVIS) considers her two children her greatest legacy. And while she doesn't need the accolade, it's worth nothing that Catherine was named to the "50 Most Powerful Working Moms" list by Working Mother magazine. T here are many ways to describe Megan Bull: researcher, nonprofit founder, survivor, The sister who nominated her for this Real. Strong. supporter - and real, strong woman. She shares, Women. of Distinction award adds, "Cathy has lived a "In my eyes, real, strong women are those that can take life that anyone would call inspirational. She has and the negatives of their life and turn them into something continues to change the world for the better." positive for the future, creating a cycle of support." Megan is doing just that. Catherine points to advocacy and championing others as traits of a real, strong woman. She explains that each of us In 2019, Megan and her boyfriend were attending can "leverage the unique elements of being a woman SO the Gilroy Garlic Festival when a gunman opened that you can have a greater impact as a leader." fire on the crowd, ultimately killing three people and wounding 17 others. The couple was able to escape, Now leading at the highest levels of her industry, but Megan was left with survivor's guilt and developed Catherine can trace the line of her leadership to the post-traumatic stress disorder. Less than a year later, valuable lessons she learned at the Theta chapter. Megan was severely injured in a hit-and-run accident, She shares, "I simply wouldn't be the same manager, which required intensive back surgery; while waiting teammate or leader without my Alpha Chi Omega for this surgery, she nearly lost her home in a California experience." wildfire. Three unimaginably difficult experiences, and yet Megan pushed forward - for herself and others. The sister who nominated her for this award shares, "She "Advocacy is our duty refused to give up and decided to fight until she not only got her life back but improved the lives of other in and our privilege." her community. In her largest time of need, she didn't just prioritize herself, but those around her as well." As a trauma survivor, Megan says she noticed a lack of resources and support, SO she decided to fix that, founding Reclaim Foundation. The 501(c)(3) THE LYRE 49 REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. many of my sorority sisters, friends and family members during this process," she says. "Due to Alpha Chi Omega, I am lucky to have such a strong support system of sisters and others that I met because of my Greek life experience. From the day-to-day activities to the amazing mentors that I continue to learn from, I have met the most amazing real, strong women on this journey." She adds, "My sisters believed in my character and leadership ability before I ever had the opportunity to recognize it within myself." From serving on her chapter executive board and Panhellenic Council to gaining confidence and finding support in her sisters at all stages of life, Alpha Chi Omega has had a profound impact on Megan's journey. Reclaim Foundation now has a board of directors and officers, raised more than $35,000 in its first year, held numerous workshops for those working through trauma, and begun development of an online forum for trauma survivors to safely interact and relate to one another. As founder, president and director, Megan also was recognized by Victoria's Secret with a 2021 PINK with Purpose Award and was nominated for Nextstar Media's national Remarkable Woman of the Year. And as a personal triumph, just six months after her surgery MEGAN BULL and learning to walk again, Megan summitted Half Dome, which she describes as "an accomplishment built nonprofit serves those impacted by trauma of any by a bunch of little accomplishments." form by developing resources, building a supportive community and offering financial assistance for Through determination, growth and community related costs. Megan had no prior experience working support, Megan is healing herself and extending a hand in nonprofits, having spent her career thus far as a to others, including Alpha Chi Omegas. pharmaceutical researcher, but she quickly learned the first step is to just start. "If any sisters are reading this that have experienced trauma, I want you to know that I'm sorry. In no way did "At a certain point, I realized that I would never know you deserve this, and I know how awful it is and how it it all, but I can learn on-demand and can continue to may still be affecting you, no matter how long it's been," pivot and grow as the process continues," Megan says. Megan says. "I also want you to know that you are not "Confidence and anxiety, growth and mistakes, and alone. Trauma can feel like you are entirely isolated, learning and the unknown can all coexist at the same but you are not alone in your experiences, thoughts or time." feelings. It can be scary, but I know your sorority sisters, family or friends are ready to support you." Megan also learned the value of community, both in her recovery and in starting her foundation. "I leaned on SO Learn more about Reclaim Foundation at reclaimfoundation.org 50 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Heather Hall DELTA ZETA (CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY) C completing a 400-mile bike ride is a triumph for anyone. And then there's Heather Hall, who not only finished the RAGBRAI ride through Iowa (plus two more times virtually) but also did SO as a three-time cancer survivor and with a titanium rod in place of her femur! Heather rode with Team Livestrong to raise funds for the organization and to prove to herself that she could do it. "The last time we rode in person [in] 2019, I was four weeks out of treatment for my third cancer. I didn't HEATHER HALL think I would be able to ride much, but I still went to support the team," Heather recalls. "I ended up riding the most mileage with the most ease than I ever have! I sister who nominated her for this award. Heather think I was SO grateful to be alive, on my bike, laughing agrees, sharing, "Cancer is an ugly disease, but life is a with friends, raising money for one of my favorite beautiful gift." charities. Seriously, I am blessed to be here." She shares that gift through advocating to lawmakers, Heather was first diagnosed with osteosarcoma at age business leaders and doctors for an end to cancer and 21, walking for graduation between chemotherapy improved care and resources for patients. She has treatments. A few years later, she had surgery for spoken at multiple engagements and even helped start a melanoma, and then nearly two decades later, a routine conference for young adult cancer survivors. Through it mammogram found early-stage breast cancer. Through all, Heather is open about her own journey. it all, Heather focused on living beyond cancer - with her bike rides being just one example of that - and "I share my story to show that my focus on living making a difference for others. beyond cancer is my way of living life on my own terms," Heather says. She provides updates and advice "She works hard to celebrate life every single day, to support survivors and caregivers on her blog, breathing life into the line in our Symphony 'to see and recently launched a new motivational series, beauty even in the common things of life," says the "Today I Choose," with affirmation cards and a journal THE LYRE 51 I's REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. to remind people that we can choose our outlook on any situation; she hopes to expand this into workshops and a book one day. Heather emphasizes the power of community throughout her life, which Serene includes her Alpha Chi Omega sisters. "Through my cancer diagnoses and many other ups and downs, my sorority sisters are there. Our sisterhood reminds me that I'm surrounded by amazing women throughout my journey," she says. Singh "I always have believed in the importance of strong bonds between women. I grew up with two beautiful (blood) sisters and knew when I went off to college NU that I would need good female friends beside me. I (UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO found my bonus sisters in Alpha Chi Omega." BOULDER) These sisters have helped Heather grow into a woman who finds joy in living her story and helping others do the same. I n Serene Singh's children's book The Queen Machine, three girls learn to love themselves for "I never expected to be diagnosed with bone cancer what makes them different. The theme of self- at 21. The thought of clearing two more cancers was confidence is woven throughout the story, just as it unimaginable," she says. "But here I am - strong, winds its way through Serene's own journey and in the vibrant, healthy, throwing my arms open to life and work she's doing with and for others. embracing every day. Because I am a real, strong woman." In addition to being an author, Serene is a Rhodes Scholar, University of Oxford doctoral candidate and the You can follow Heather's journey on heathershangout.com. first South Asian to be named National All-American Miss. The list goes on, but Serene is most proud of founding her nonprofit, The Serenity Project. After a close friend died by suicide, Serene wanted to bring together resources and support for women survivors of various traumas. "Here I am - strong, vibrant, "Every day I have the opportunity to uplift and healthy, throwing my arms embolden resilient women who have faced challenges like domestic violence, acid attacks and suicide open to life and embracing attempts," Serene shares. The nonprofit has a year-long every day. Because I am a curriculum, guest speakers and individual mentorship to help participants chase their dreams. "The women in real, strong woman." TSP create their own passion projects throughout the year - transforming their experiences of trauma and pain into something they can heal through or find their life's work in." 52 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Serene wants to change the perception of of healing and what mental health looks like. These are processes that may not be linear or resolve right away. "It is a messy, unglamorous, completely unique process for every person," she explains. "That is the only real way I have found in the women we work with and the journeys they have in our program." The Serenity Project has raised thousands of dollars and been recognized by Victoria's Secret PINK. Through it all, Serene is helping women "cultivate confidence, community and connections." This work is inherent to who Serene is, as her nominator explains, "Serene has a heart to serve in every instance, and with every opportunity she is given, she finds a way to change lives." Serene is well on her way to making change herself, too. At Oxford, she is studying women on death row in the U.S. criminal justice system, inspired by her work with women thrivers (because Serene believes they do SO much more than survive) who have been part of The Serenity Project and motivated by her own identity as a Sikh woman. She shares, "One of my dreams is to end violence against all communities but particularly religious communities as well as women. This dream depends on challenging biases and uplifting oppressed voices." SERENE SINGH In all her endeavors, Serene lives out our Real. Strong. Women. tagline - and it's a message she wants to share her dreams. Now, she's proud to connect her successes with women throughout the world. with our sisterhood, whether it's bringing sisters on as mentors in her nonprofit or donating copies of her "Alpha Chi Omega's 'real' emphasizes authenticity. book for sisters to share with girls in their lives. we need genuine, filter-off and vulnerable role models to look to for us to truly inspire change," she explains. Her list of accomplishments is long, her dreams are "Strong" is tenacity, resilience and grit. Our world tells big and her journey is ever-evolving. "Learning to be women 'no' often for everything - from the clothes we a better real, strong woman and represent Alpha Chi wear to the dreams we dream. 'Strong' is a reminder to Omega is a journey filled with hardships," Serene says, all women that whether we think we can or can't, we "but it is one I am able to credit for the woman I am are right." today and the lives impacted tomorrow." Serene says Alpha Chi Omega found her when she Serene shares more about ber work on serenesingh.com. needed it most to build her confidence and drive her to THE LYRE 53 GREAL STRONG REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. Krusten M. Sparks Shannon GAMMA OMICRON (MARSHALL UNIVERSITY) hen Kristen M. Sparks Shannon started W college, she was looking for belonging. She found that and more. "Being a part of this amazing group of women instilled a sense of confidence in myself that I had not experienced before," she says. "This confidence allowed me to run for Homecoming Court - and with the support of my sisters, I won! That same confidence followed me into law school, where I was elected as student body president. Without Alpha Chi Omega, I may have never had the confidence to 'go for it!" Taking that confidence into her career, Kristen is now working as an attorney in the areas of criminal defense and family law. As the founder and owner of Shannon & Associates, P.C., Kristen has also carried with her the value of women supporting women. As an example, the firm implemented cloud-based file management and billing to allow more flexibility in remote work - which also set the team up for success when the pandemic closed offices. And even when her office reopened, Kristen instituted family-friendly policies, such as setting up spare offices for virtual learning spaces and KRISTEN M. SPARKS providing additional flexibility when daycares closed. SHANNON "My employees never had to choose between making a living or making sure their children were being cared for," Kristen shares. "I am proud to have opened a business that encourages women in their careers, 54 A LPHA CHI OMEGA All in their roles as parents and as members of the judge apologized to my clients for the system not doing community." their job and failing to care about this child the way that they clearly cared for their child," Kristen recalls. Kristen is also giving back to the community, serving "Greeted with applause from those privileged souls in as a guardian ad litem to represent children in custody the courtroom, the judge granted the final adoption and abuse cases and as a pro bono attorney to represent and changed this child's life." victims of domestic violence. As her award nominator wrote, "Kristen has achieved great success with her Cases like this one are why Kristen calls her work a career and is always striving to not only be good at her calling, not a career. In all she does, Kristen is helping job, but to DO good with her career." define what a real, strong woman is: "In simple terms, a woman who seeks the heights and encourages those Alpha Chi Omega's national philanthropy was around her to seek those heights with her." something that attracted Kristen to our organization during recruitment; she had been involved with the cause since childhood and knew the prevalence of the issue and the importance of raising awareness. Having worked with survivors of all backgrounds, Kristen shares one of her greatest lessons. "Where "Being a part of this victims of domestic violence often need a supportive ear to confide in, many victims receive well-meaning amazing group of 'advice' to 'just leave him.' While well-meaning, these comments leave victims feeling judged and isolated - women instilled a exactly how the abuser wants her to feel," she explains. "Many times, just listening and supporting are exactly sense of confidence in what a victim needs to feel confident to find freedom from her situation. Remember, domestic violence is myself that I had not a cycle, and it may take years for a victim to build up the courage to break the cycle. Continue to listen and experienced before support." Without Alpha Chi Kristen has practiced law in hundreds of cases, working with clients in stressful, heartbreaking and scary Omega, I may situations. One case, though, stands out for its beautiful ending. have never had the Adoption cases can be complex and exhausting, and in confidence to this particular case, Kristen explains that the system had repeatedly failed a military family trying to finalize the 'go for it!" adoption of a child from foster care they loved dearly. Kristen never gave up. "At the conclusion of my evidence, the entire courtroom was in tears. The parents. The court reporter. The bailiff. The attorneys. The judge. On the record, the THE LYRE 55 ALUMNA INITIATE SPOTLIGHT Alpha Chi Omeg Big Sisterhood, Small World BY LAURA KNOBEL (IOTA ALPHA, would connect with one ALUMNAE INITIATES), ASSISTANT DIRECTOR of those Alpha Chis who OF LIFETIME ENGAGEMENT had been in college at the same time as her. born-and-raised Texan, Vannia Atao (lota A Alpha, Alumnae Initiates) spent her Lauran Casteel (Epsilon undergraduate years as an active and involved Lambda) recalls meeting college student while getting her degree in public health Vannia for the first time at The University of Texas at Arlington - SO much so, at that event. "We bonded in fact, that her schedule was too full to add sorority very quickly, and I ended membership! up writing her individual VANNIA ATAO sponsorship," Lauran That didn't stop her from connecting with members of recalls. Alpha Chi Omega from the Epsilon Lambda chapter during her time there. "All the Alpha Chi Omegas had In February 2021, Vannia was able to participate in such a good presence," she remembers. "They were a socially-distanced Initiation Ceremony. Lauran was genuine, SO involved and all-around nice women." there to welcome Vannia into the sisterhood, along with Elizabeth Vaughan (Epsilon Lambda) - who was a Vannia also felt a connection to Alpha Chi Omega's good friend of Vannia's even before Alpha Chi Omega - philanthropy of domestic violence awareness. "That is and members of Delta Eta Delta. something I am passionate about since it is a public health problem in the community," she shares. "I was super nervous," Vannia recalls about how she felt ahead of her initiation. "I was also very excited to While pursuing her master's degree in public health be [there] with all my sisters and friends I made along with a concentration in epidemiology and officially the way. After initiation, I felt a huge sense of relief and having settled in Arlington, Vannia felt ready to get belongingness It was very special to me." involved again and knew right where to start - with Alpha Chi Omega. "I still wanted to feel a sense of Knowing how involved she was as a college student, no belongingness," she shares. one was surprised to see how quickly Vannia engaged as an Alpha Chi Omega member. "Vannia has dived head- After applying for the National Alumna Initiate Program first into Alpha Chi Omega and easily transitioned into (NAIP), Vannia started to build those connections she many leadership roles," says Lauran. desired; she found the new Alpha Chis she met to be just as genuine as the ones she had known in college. "My In just over a year of membership, Vannia has experience was pretty exciting," she says. "I really had no already become a Foundation ambassador, lifetime idea what I was getting myself into, but everyone that I engagement volunteer team member, vice president met along the way was SO warm and welcoming." communications for Delta Eta Delta and vice president Through NAIP, Vannia was introduced to members of DO YOU HAVE A FRIEND, FAMILY MEMBER OR WOMAN the Delta Eta Delta (Arlington, Texas) alumnae chapter IN YOUR COMMUNITY WHO YOU THINK WOULD and joined them for a fall-themed sisterhood event. MAKE A GREAT ALPHA CHI OMEGA? LEARN MORE Little did she know that day at the pumpkin patch she AND SPONSOR HER FOR MEMBERSHIP THROUGH THE NATIONAL ALUMNA INITIATE PROGRAM AT ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG/NAIP. 56 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Alpha Chi Omega Alpha Chi Omega VANNIA WITH MEMBERS OF DELTA ETA DELTA (AND THEIR KIDS!) AT THE CHAPTER'S ANNUAL HERA DAY FUNDRAISER, MAKING TEDDY BEARS FOR CHILDREN AT SAFE HAVEN SHELTER of the local house corporation board for Epsilon When asked what she would share with anyone who Lambda - all while completing her graduate degree and is on the fence about applying for alumna initiation, working as a public health educator for the North Texas Vannia says, "Go for it! Alpha Chi Omega is a great Poison Control Center! organization that has a good network of women to support you from all walks of life. I have met some of Although that seems like a full plate, Vannia recently my closest friends who turned into sisters at the right added one more opportunity when she stepped into time in my life." perhaps the most meaningful volunteer role for her Alpha Chi Omega journey - president of Rho Chi Rho, As one of those friends-turned-sisters, Lauran would the alumnae chapter for alumnae initiates. agree. "I have absolutely loved seeing Vannia's natural personality as a real, strong woman evolve and grow Loy Holt (Iota Alpha) serves as the Rho Chi Rho in Alpha Chi Omega thus far," she says. "And to think, treasurer and expressed joy and excitement at having she was just initiated one year ago! I cannot wait to see Vannia in the role of president. "As soon as I received where her journey with Alpha Chi takes her. but first, the letter from [our province alumnae chair], I wrote to it is taking her to convention because we are rooming Vannia congratulating her and asking when we could together!" meet for a Zoom call. She took care of all of that. She was open to suggestions and we became fast friends, From strangers on a college campus in Arlington, Texas promising to introduce ourselves to each other at to sisters and roommates at Alpha Chi Omega's national convention," Loy shares. "She will represent Rho Chi convention in Bellevue, Washington - it really is a small world after all. Rho well." THE LYR E 57 is ACCOMPLISHED ALUMNAE Champions for Change BY LAUREN FILIPPINI (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER eet two sisters who are leading efforts in M diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging at their companies and in their communities - and hear from them how you can make an impact. ERICKA JONES XI (UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA - LINCOLN) Ericka Jones has led diversity and inclusion work at several large corporations and organizations, including Target, the Greater Minneapolis-St. Paul Area Metro Transit and currently General Motors as its DEI integration leader. She also volunteered on Alpha Chi ERICKA JONES Omega's DEI Work Group. Through each role, her priority has been similar. and understanding differences; she believes the world can become a better place when we view our differences "It's important that I am a leader in integration on as benefits. "Oftentimes, differences are barriers, or how to incorporate inclusive behaviors to move along we look at them as annoyances or frustrations," she diversity strategy with an organization, to influence says. "Differences with other people are opportunities outcomes, to have more diverse representation and to where we get to grow. Our thinking styles and our create a culture that is more inclusive and belonging," backgrounds are different pieces that we need to create she explains. the puzzle." While there are many approaches and strategies she When we recognize where we are different and what uses in her day-to-day, Ericka says it all comes down we share, we can foster a sense of belonging, which to each individual looking inside at how they've been is something Ericka sees in Alpha Chi Omega. "The conditioned and what they've inherited, along with more we're able to uplift and elevate women through recognizing what triggers a reaction and how those a collective like Alpha Chi Omega, that is really reactions impact others. important," Ericka says. "That's what I took away from [my experience], that sisterhood is uplifting." This mindset crosses over into Ericka's other passion: yoga. A part-time yoga teacher, Ericka sees how yoga Ericka suggests that at each stage of life, sisters think philosophy and DEI work can intersect - from the about what they can do now and what they can leave practice's focus on ahimsa (an ancient Indian principle behind as inspiration for those who come next. of nonviolence) to, as Ericka explains, learning "how we can mitigate bias through the technique of meditation "At the end of whatever season it is, we can look back and move through those biases SO we can observe our and say, 'I failed forward. I tried. I led with integrity. I thoughts rather than be reactionary." instilled hope," she says. "At the end of that season, who were we? And at the beginning of the next, who do we Ericka says her strength lies in personal relationships want to be?" 58 ALPHA CHI OMEGA NICOLE CARIDAD "I have always been passionate about designing systems RALSTON that center and uplift those who have been historically and systematically marginalized in our society, and I BETA ETA (FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY) think a lot of that is connected to my roots," Nicole says, When Nicole Caridad Ralston, Ph.D., set out on her explaining that she often felt like she didn't fit in while professional journey, she also undertook a personal growing up as a multiracial Latina and daughter of a journey to get to know herself and how she wanted to Cuban refugee. "All of those experiences, coupled with live her life. She explains that, like many, she wanted her my gender, led me to realize early on that this world career to align with her values. isn't built on equity and fairness, but rather it's built on maintaining the privileges of those who are in power." "I always say I look forward to becoming a great ancestor, and in order to do that, I am on a journey to Now in her role with Beloved Community, she's understand who I am and to take care of myself," she committed to addressing equity disparities with her says. That understanding has come through classes and clients and to making sure her team never feels like activities in college (including Alpha Chi Omega), as she did growing up but instead feels "seen, heard and well as her graduate programs, workshops and therapy. supported" as they work with their clients. "I am still on that journey, and I think this is the most important one to getting me to where I am now." When it comes to each of us doing the work of diversity, equity and inclusion, Nicole suggests starting by looking Nicole leads the education and programming team inward at how systems of oppression are playing out at Beloved Community, a racial and economic equity in our own lives. She explains, "Understanding who consulting firm that works with schools, nonprofits you are, learning about the privileged or marginalized and corporations. Nicole's team designs and facilitates identities that you hold, unraveling your biases and curricula and coaches clients. understanding how to care for yourself in the process is the foundation for taking action toward social justice or NICOLE CARIDAD RALSTON diversity, equity and inclusion." Reading books, listening to podcasts and attending workshops are just a few ways to support this inner work, Nicole shares, adding, "I would also say tap into your empathy and compassion and listen to understand when in spaces with people who are different from you when they share their experiences in our society." "I set out early on in life to make this world a better place for those who have been historically and systemically pushed to the margins like myself," Nicole says. In her own self-work and her work with Beloved Community's clients, Nicole is well on her way to reaching her goal. THE LYRE 59 ARCHIVES THEN AND NOW Rho 1954 FROM THE MARCH 1955 LYRE: Have you ever thought about what Alpha Chi "Seattle and Alpha Chi lived up to their reputations this quarter. The Omega was doing 10, latter united to the strains of a Swiss alpine song, the keynote of our 20, 50 years ago? How election campaign - The Mountain Climb, and took Connie Kulseth have things changed for right to the top as vice president of the freshman class. Seattle and our members and our the weatherman cooperated by providing the usual downpour of rain organization? How have during the two days of marching, parading, and dancing in the quad; they stayed the same? but it failed to drench the spirits of 84 Alpha Chis.. Taken from previous Lyre magazines, the "The next evening, October 22, we all celebrated at our annual fall "Then and Now" series dance honoring the pledge class. The theme, 'Football Daze,' and the offers a glimpse into what success of this event led us on to even greater conquests of a similar life was like for Alpha Chi nature, this time over the Lambda Chis - 7 to 6. We insured victory, Omegas throughout our once again despite the rain, by making our own rules for this football history. game; and the boys could only acquiesce, which they did graciously when they awarded us our trophy The Pacific Northwest is known for its rain, "These events contributed to a feeling of determination and a spirit of and our Rho chapter enthusiastic unity which will not soon be lost." at the University of Washington has experienced downpours - but members' spirits have never been dampened! Luckily, Washington State sees its share of gorgeous, sunny days, as we hope our convention attendees will experience in July! No matter the weather, the Rho chapter continues to connect, lead, grow and serve today in 2022. domestic violence awareness is SO crucial and how to support loved ones that may need help. The phrase 2021 "Love Shouldn't Hurt" was preached and worn with pride during the events, and its purpose continues far beyond that week in October. Our Walk A Mile reminded me why my freshman self felt such a strong pull to Alpha Chi Omega. The BY FERRYN DRAKE work we did, and the work we continue to do, to raise RHO CHAPTER PRESIDENT awareness and assist in the fight against domestic violence is real and genuine. We work to strengthen the In October 2021, Alpha Chi Omega hosted our annual cause because we understand the necessity of bringing Walk A Mile week. This week consisted of a variety awareness. Whether the sun is beaming in the Seattle of events to raise awareness and funds for domestic sky or the rain is pouring in our city, Rho chapter will violence awareness, a cause that members of Rho continue to demonstrate our loyalty to the fight against chapter hold close to our hearts. With the participation domestic violence for years to come. of other sororities and fraternities at the University of Washington, we hosted games and get-togethers during this week, whether the sun was shining or the rain was pouring. The chapter hosted a karaoke night, a competition to spot an Alpha Chi Omega and take a picture with her, a relay race on campus and much more. The best part of every event held that week was the collective dedication to help an important cause. The greater cause was always the focus, and each member that participated was actively showing support for our philanthropy. With that, one of Rho chapter's main focuses throughout the week was educating ourselves and those participating. We had open and important conversations about healthy relationships, why SHOULDN'T THE LYRE 61 AXO CONNECTION 3 1 4 2 COLLEGIATE NOTES 3 EPSILON ZETA (AUBURN UNIVERSITY) 1 BETA PHI (BOWLING GREEN STATE UNIVERSITY) The new executive board is ready for what 2022 will The 2022 executive board took time from preparing for bring. their new terms for a picture. 4 ALPHA PHI (THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT 2 KAPPA RHO (UNIVERSITY OF NORTH AUSTIN) CAROLINA AT CHARLOTTE) It's not all hard work; there's time for fun and sisterhood when you're serving on the Alpha Phi The Kappa Rho executive board is all about the power executive board. pose! 2's 62 ALPHA CHI OMEGA 25 5 7 CFRT A 6 8 5 ZETA PSI (LOYOLA UNIVERSITY NEW 7 DELTA KAPPA (SAM HOUSTON STATE ORLEANS) UNIVERSITY) With smiles behind their masks, the chapter recruited It was a record recruitment for the Delta Kappa chapter! new sisters during preference round. 8 BETA PI (WASHINGTON COLLEGE) 6 EPSILON ETA (STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE During spring recruitment, Beta Pi chapter welcomed UNIVERSITY) home its newest members. New sisters experienced all the fun of Bid Day with Epsilon Eta chapter. THE LYRE 63 AXO CONNECTION OME 9 11 Fresh 10 12 MANDS 9 ALPHA OMICRON (THE OHIO STATE 11 THETA IOTA (BAYLOR UNIVERSITY) UNIVERSITY) Theta Iota sisters filled Bid Day with fun and It's never too cold to welcome new sisters home to sisterhood! Alpha Chi Omega! 12 ALPHA BETA (PURDUE UNIVERSITY) 10 GAMMA THETA (UNIVERSITY OF Chapter members bundled up to make a difference MARYLAND) during Healthy Relationships Week. Gamma Theta members waited for their new sisters to come home on Bid Day. 64 ALPHA CHI OMEGA BREWN GOLD M M 13 Healthy 15 PRIME AlplaCh 14 16 13 THETA OMEGA (MARQUETTE UNIVERSITY) 15 KAPPA PSI (WESTERN OREGON UNIVERSITY) Sisters tabled to spread awareness about healthy relationships in February. So much love for our Alpha Chi sisters, on Valentine's Day or any day! 14 ALPHA OMEGA (BIRMINGHAM-SOUTHERN COLLEGE) 16 KAPPA CHI (FLORIDA GULF COAST UNIVERSITY) Sisters shared what love means to them with their campus during Healthy Relationships Week. In March, the Kappa Chi executive board and advisory board meet for brunch to brainstorm ideas and enjoy sisterhood time. THE LYRE 65 AXO CONNECTION 17 19 team aflo 18 20 17 ZETA SIGMA (MISSOURI STATE 19 ZETA THETA (BROWN UNIVERSITY) UNIVERSITY) AND ALPHA PHI (THE "Together" is our favorite place to be as Alpha Chi UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN) Omegas, which these sisters from Brown University Sisters from two chapters met in Destin, Florida during know SO well. spring break. 20 BETA ETA (FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY) 18 ZETA PI (ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY) Ally Columbus and Bree Sutherland attended the Omicron Phi Omicron (Zeta Pi Alumnae) hosted its Association of Fraternal Leadership & Values Central signature event, Fireside, for members of the collegiate Conference. chapter. 66 ALPHA CHI OMEGA 1 3 WINE What's Inside: A Century of Wom 1900 - 1999 2 4 ALUMNAE NOTES 1 BETA ZETA BETA (HOUSTON, TEXAS) 3 GAMMA THETA GAMMA (WEST LOS The chapter's Founders' Day luncheon last year included ANGELES, CALIFORNIA) a silent auction, a donation drawing and recognition To celebrate 70 years of the strength of their sisterhood, these 60-year members. the chapter is hosting strength-themed monthly events. In March, the "Strength of Intellect" event took place at 2 GAMMA ETA GAMMA (EUGENE, OREGON) the Getty Center Museum. At their December gift exchange, alumnae chapter members also brought monetary and in-kind donations 4 KAPPA SIGMA KAPPA (LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS) for the Adult and Teen Challenge of Eugene. Sisters toured the Esse Purse Museum, taking in its Barbie collection, and stopped for ice cream after. THE LYRE 67 AXO CONNECTION 5 7 6 8 5 IOTA UPSILON IOTA (WILLIAMSBURG, 7 SIGMA SIGMA (ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI) VIRGINIA) The women of the Pi group of Sigma Sigma chapter Members celebrated MacDowell Month by visiting enjoyed lunch and learning from a speaker dressed up as the Mary M. Torggler Fine Arts Center at Christopher suffragist Molly Brown. Newport University. 8 ZETA SIGMA (MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY) 6 GAMMA UPSILON GAMMA (ORLANDO, ALUMNAE FLORIDA) Twenty-nine sisters initiated in 1985-87 reunited in To celebrate Hera Day, the alumnae chapter donated March at a sister's family farm for a weekend of hiking, items to the Harbor House shelter and made blessing cooking and reminiscing over college photos. bags. 68 ALPHA CHI OMEGA AXO AXI AXO 9 11 Servaes 10 12 9 ALPHA BETA (PURDUE UNIVERSITY) 11 DELTA KAPPA (SAM HOUSTON STATE ALUMNAE UNIVERSITY) ALUMNAE Alpha Beta members from the 1973-74 classes enjoyed a These Delta Kappa alumnae enjoyed a trip to San weekend in Naples, Florida. Antonio in February. They travel together several times a year! 10 BETA EPSILON (MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY) ALUMNAE 12 OMICRON (BAKER UNIVERSITY) AND BETA OMEGA (THE UNIVERSITY OF TOLEDO) A reunion in Florida was just what was needed for these ALUMNAE sisters who joined in the 80s! Alicia Firstbrook-Stott (left, Beta Omega) and Shawnee Barron (Omicron), who connected while working a cross country meet, visited Servaes Brewing Company, owned by Courtney Servaes (Omicron). THE LYRE 69 AXO CONNECTION 13 4BBd IDE BR 14 15 13 LAMBDA (SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY) 15 GAMMA TAU (OKLAHOMA CITY UNIVERSITY) AND THETA SIGMA Mary Louise Bowman Thomas celebrated 75 years of (UNIVERSITY OF NORTH FLORIDA) membership. The ceremony was hosted by Delta Pi Delta (Gulf Coast, Florida). When Amber Watson (Theta Sigma) visited Paris, she met up with Emily Laughridge (Gamma Tau), who 14 BETA ETA (FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY) lives there now. They met through Kappa Nu Kappa ALUMNA (Columbia, South Carolina) alumnae chapter. Delta Mu Delta (Gainesville, Florida) presented a 75-year membership milestone pin to Dorothy Schoonmaker Henderson (center), who served many decades as an advisor for Gamma Iota (University of Florida). 70 ALPHA CHI OMEGA 1 2 3 ACCOLADES 1 BETA OMEGA (THE UNIVERSITY OF 3 ALPHA DELTA (UNIVERSITY OF TOLEDO) ALUMNA CINCINNATI) ALUMNA Joanne Mercer competed on Jeopardy! in an episode Kim Oberlander received an Outstanding Alumni that aired January 24, 2022. She wore her Alpha Chi Award from the University of Cincinnati Alumni Omega lavaliere on set! Association for her passionate advocacy for dental 2 DELTA KAPPA (SAM HOUSTON STATE public health. These "alumni superheroes" were UNIVERSITY) COLLEGIAN depicted on a mural in downtown Cincinnati; you'll see Kim toward the top right! Camryn Hopkins, who serves as the Delta Kappa chapter president, was crowned Miss Sam Houston 2022. THE LYRE 71 is MEMORIAM In Memoriam Alpha Delta (University of Cincinnati) Dorothy McCave Kullman, 1947, March 2022 Catherine Yost Beiting, 1970, February 2022 Shirley Mueller Carroll, 1952, December 2021 Alpha Rho (University of Idaho) Reported to headquarters between February 1 and Barbara Knapton Day, 1947, March 2022 April 30, 2022 Alpha Epsilon (University of Pennsylvania) Name, Initiation Year, Month and Year of Death Molly McCarthy Brueger, 1948, November 2021 Alpha Sigma (Ohio Wesleyan University) Mary Haspel Naye, 1939, December 2021 Dorothy Parmelee Ensign, 1951, February 2022 Alpha (DePauw University) Betty Auble Reif, 1949, February 2022 Alpha lota (University of Vermont) Alpha Upsilon (The University of Alabama) Janice Schenck Nelson, 1951, February 2022 Donna Jean Higdon, 1969, March 2022 Beta (Albion College) Patti Rawlinson Holt, 1973, January 2022 Marjorie Henshaw Hesz, 1947, April 2017 Alpha Lambda (University of Minnesota) Helen Hammer Kern, 1944, March 2022 Mary Bendix Absolon, 1951, December 2014 Patricia Hydinger McVea, 1953, April 2020 Gamma (Northwestern University) Alice Helvig Albertson, 1938, November 2003 Kathryn Lide Guthrie, 1949, December 2021 Margaret Smith Bender, 1936, March 2009 Alpha Phi (The University of Texas at Austin) Mary Sheehan Marsh, 1947, March 2021 Marjorie Haglun Bennison, 1937, January 2019 Carolyn Colombe Clark, 1947, August 2016 Helen Deane Mosser, 1946, April 2022 Avis Elmquist Bliss, 1940, November 2014 Marjorie Mathis Dent, 1946, January 2022 Frances Frahm Boyden, 1938, January 2018 E. Jean Kellner Durkee, 1951, February 2022 Eta (Bucknell University) Pearl Rhoten Buckland, 1955, September 2008 Dorothy Kreager Murphey, 1951, April 2022 Virginia McCabe, 1940, January 2022 Pamela Newsome Edstrom, 1966, March 2017 Norma Coyle Siebenheller, 1956, April 2022 Mary Dahlberg Everson, 1946, April 2020 Alpha Chi (Butler University) Patricia Butler Flynn, 1936, December 2003 Joan Catherine Allison, 1988, July 2002 Kappa (University of Wisconsin) Gail Linder Gerkin, 1939, December 2017 Diana Garceau Scamman, 1951, January 2022 Carol McCartney Pregont, 1952, March 2019 Marla Harff Gerths, 1953, November 2021 Katherine Klee Spellman, 1946, September 2021 Harriet B Glassmaker, 1933, April 2002 Lambda (Syracuse University) Julie Danielsen Godston, 1959, May 2006 Alpha Psi (UCLA) Diane Moncsko Taylor, 1961, February 2022 Janet Chalgren Hoag, 1948, November 2017 Carol Hannum Manker, 1959, March 2022 Rosemarie Lux James, 1942, June 2017 Darla Klopp Regalado, 1950, March 2022 Xi (University of Nebraska - Lincoln) Norma Garley Johnston, 1949, May 2016 Frances Hanson Dech, 1950, September 2020 Mary Gramm Knox, 1952, January 2021 Alpha Omega (Birmingham-Southern College) Jane Radaker Moodie, 1950, February 2022 Colleen Campbell Lamkin, 1964, December 2009 Dorothy Thompson Chambers, 1945, December Mary Jean Mulvaney, 1947, September 2019 Susan Fitch Lewis, 1956, July 2021 2021 Marcella S Lilygren, 1938, June 1997 Elise Ware DuBois, 1975, January 2022 Pi (University of California, Berkeley) Jean Battin Linne, 1945, March 2019 Joyce Himes Fox, 1955, November 2021 Dorothy McVeigh McGee, 1936, March 2013 Beta Gamma (Louisiana State University) Jane Betts Pogue, 1947, March 2022 Margaret Abalan Meschberger, 1968, April 2015 Betty Vorman Dufrene, 1947, December 2017 Sandra Faulk Strandtmann, 1954, March 2022 Alice Estes Pierce, 1944, June 2019 Dorothy Donovan Rude, 1942, February 2007 Beta Epsilon (Michigan State University) Sigma (University of Iowa) Audrey Cotton Savage, 1950, July 2005 Betty Wagner Bartlett, 1948, May 2021 Barbara Snover Halweg, 1946, December 2017 Patricia Nelson Smith, 1937, September 2018 Ruby Scott VanHorn, 1948, June 2016 Joan Peterson Sullivan, 1933, October 2011 Beta Eta (Florida State University) Elsie Ball Turnquist, 1939, April 2018 Nancy Ann Bishop, 1950, March 2020 Tau (Brenau University) Mary Roepke Wilcox, 1951, November 2021 Elaine Bogue Moore, 1959, March 2022 Jill Sexson, 1969, January 2022 Mary Prince Wilcox, 1940, June 2009 Carolyn Logue Tansey, 1957, October 2021 Mary Mundell Wile, 1946, April 2015 Phi (University of Kansas) Jane Boener Witham, 1938, December 2012 Beta Theta (Lawrence University) Nancy Vermillion Smith, 1960, February 2022 Virginia Yelland, 1937, March 2011 Janice Juve Felker, 1947, April 2021 Rowene Gabriel Mahoney, 1945, June 2020 Chi (Oregon State University) Alpha Mu (Indiana University) Alison Holdridge Hoffman, 1954, October 2000 Mary Dilgard Nold, 1950, August 2017 Beta Kappa (University of Wyoming) Judy Sasse Haise, 1963, January 2021 Psi (The University of Oklahoma) Alpha Nu (University of Missouri) Marilyn Reynolds Huskey, 1957, February 2022 Sally Kay Cole, 1965, November 2019 Beta Lambda (University of Arizona) Martha Killion Simmons, 1952, February 2022 Virginia Wood Steinbeck, 1949, June 2017 Louise von Dedenroth Dendinger, 1950, Rosemary Riddle Simpson, 1961, December 2021 Madelyn Dennis Visconti, 1961, February 2022 February 2022 Colleen Alexandra Wilson-Pappa, 1983, March Alpha Beta (Purdue University) 2022 Beta Mu (Pennsylvania State University) Nancy Cameron Holm, 1962, September 2017 Mary Gbur Collett, 1955, January 2020 Alpha Omicron (The Ohio State University) Nancy Showers Zinn, 1950, February 2022 Judith Grimes Beisner, 1955, February 2022 72 ALPHA CHI OMEGA #SAAM As part of our national philanthropic efforts, Alpha Chi Omega recognizes Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) each April. Sisters worked to raise Beta Nu (University of Utah) Shirley Budd Pusey, 1947, December 2018 awareness on Denim Day, support survivors and further our mission to eradicate sexual violence in our communities. Beta Omicron (Florida Southern College) Patricia Harwood Klug, 1951, February 2022 BETA ALPHA GAMMA Beta Sigma (University of Georgia) @ALPHACHIOMEGA_BE] @UNMALPHACHI Helen Dendy Addison, 1964, April 2022 Beta Psi (Louisiana Tech University) Miriam Brown Dillon, 1957, March 2022 Eloise May Mounger, 1947, December 2018 Gamma Delta (University of Denver) Mary E. Beu, 1957, February 2022 Gamma Epsilon (Oklahoma State Wearing denim today to stand in University) solidarity with survivors of sexual Shirley Pickett Camp, 1953, February 2022 assault. Thank you to everyone April is Sexual Assault Awareness Ardis Arnold Manning, 1957, January 2022 that came to our tabling today. Month! We hold this cause very Carol Sue Vester, 1956, April 2022 close to our hearts and hope we can spread more awareness about Gamma Zeta (Kansas State University) this very serious topic. #SAAM KAPPA PSI @WOU_AXO Mary Brookens Dettmer, 1965, March 2022 Gamma Eta (San Jose State University) BETA OMEGA Lois Birnbaum Anderson, 1956, January 2022 @TOLEDOAXO Mary Ann Frances Rokovich, 1968, June 2021 Gamma Theta (University of Maryland) Caroline Esser Dade, 1952, April 2022 Sarah Glascock Smith, 1953, January 2022 Gamma Mu (Ball State University) Marilyn A. Jones, 1967, February 2022 Frances Wild Marcum, 1954, March 2022 Alpha Chi Omega is wearing denim today in solidarity with Gamma Omicron (Marshall University) survivors. There is never an excuse Roberta Chafin Bieber, 1955, February 2022 or invitation for rape or sexual Today we wear denim in honor assault. #RealStrongWomen Ida Canterbury Highlander, 1960, February of survivors of sexual assault. 2021 We hear you, we believe you & Carolyn Elizabeth Jackson, 1964, March 2022 you know you are never alone #DenimI Day EPSILON ETA @SFASU_AXO Gamma Pi (University of Tampa) Katherine Emrick Stephenson, 1963, April 2022 UPSILON @AXO_MILLIKIN Gamma Sigma (University of Rhode Island) Maria Spaziano Charrette, 1956, March 2020 AXS Gamma Upsilon (University of Houston) Charlotte Harris Spandau, 1956, April 2022 Delta Kappa (Sam Houston State University) Joan Cynthia Fox, 1959, February 2022 Every 1 in 4 women will experience domestic violence Delta Mu (University of Massachusetts) sometime in her life. Today we Diane C. Clehane, 1979, February 2022 stand with survivors of sexual assault. Wear denim today to Thank you to everyone who stand with these individuals. came out to spread SA awareness #SAAM around campus today! You are not alone. NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION Alpha Chi Omega Fraternity U.S. Postage 5635 Castle Creek Parkway North Drive PAID Indianapolis IN 46250-4304 Indianapolis, IN Permit N. 1643 alphachiomega.org Star Challenge IS LIVE! Make an uncommon impact on Alpha Chi Omega and honor your sisters with a star through Star Challenge. Use the QR code to make your gift now or visit give.alphachiomega.org! 20 Chi Omaga