THE THE UNCOMMON IMPACT ISSUE Meet Our National Boards Karla A Sister Leads the Way for Body Positivity 2022 Nati ona Con vention BACK TOGETHER WITH SISTERS! Alpha Chi Omega FALL 2022 REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. VOLUME 125. ISSUE 1. Ardath Yates Burkhart LEADING AN "ARMY" OF VOLUNTEERS BY SALLY CUTLER (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), HISTORIAN AND ARCHIVIST A rdath Yates Burkhart (Alpha, DePauw University) made an uncommon impact both on Alpha Chi Omega and the central TION Indiana community. A lifelong civic leader, Ardath led the Fraternity's initiative to create a lasting memorial to our Founders on the DePauw campus, culminating in the building and dedication of the Founders' Memorial Carillon. A 1960 Alpha Chi Omega Award of Achievement recipient, Ardath also served as convention manager for the Fraternity's Diamond Jubilee convention in 1960 (which took place in French Lick and Greencastle, Indiana) and was president of Beta Beta (Indianapolis, Indiana) alumnae chapter. ARDATH (LEFT) AT A WFYI TELETHON PHOTO COURTESY OF WFYI Ardath served on DePauw University's Board of Trustees for 16 years as well as numerous other volunteer boards, but it was her trailblazing work in mobilizing volunteers to raise funds for the fledgling public television station, WFYI, in Indianapolis that made her impact truly uncommon. In 1970, Ardath recruited and led a group of 7,000 women known as "Ardath's Army" to raise $300,000 in just three months. Then-mayor of Indianapolis Richard Lugar remarked that the group's efforts "make a mere male feel humble." A true advocate for women and for Alpha Chi Omega, Ardath once said, "If sororities and fraternities enrich lives as they were intended to do, and can do, then there is no limit as to how long they can exist." Ardath Burkhart passed away in 1983 at the age of 78. #AXOuntold ARDATH YATES BURKHART FIND MORE UNTOLD STORIES ON THE ALPHA CHI OMEGA HISTORY WEBSITE. VISIT: ALPHACHIOMEGA.HISTORYIT.COM FALL 2022 VOLUME 125: ISSUE 1 THE UNCOMMONIMPACTAISSUE X REAL. STRONG. WOMAN. IN THIS ISSUE 2 LETTERS AND LYRES 4 CORNER OFFICE 5 PERSPECTIVES 6 AXO NEWS B 15 CONVENTION Recap, award winners and 2024 info 30 HOUSING 32 FOUNDATION The Common Bond. Uncommon Impact. campaign 39 INDUSTRY INFO 40 ON CAMPUS 42 COLLEGIATE CORNER 44 LIFE 46 CAREER OUTLOOK Advice for entrepreneurs 50 56 VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT Based on her own experiences, 58 ALUMNAE INITIATES SPOTLIGHT Stephanie Lexis launched the Broadway Body Positivity Project 60 BUSINESS 2022-23 Enterprise boards and has created a movement to diversify the stage. 62 ACCOMPLISHED ALUMNA 64 ARCHIVES PHOTO ABOVE BY MATT SIMPKINS; 66 AXO CONNECTION AND COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF IN MEMORIAM DIGITAL PIX & COMPOSITES THE LYRE 1 EDITOR'S DESK Our LETTERS SURPRISE SISTER CONNECTIONS Uncommon In the summer 2022 Lyre, we asked where you found a sister when you least expected it! Marla Gornetski Williams (Psi, The University Impact of Oklahoma) shared, "My twin sons played hockey for the Dallas Penguins. We soon discovered that three moms on the team T he Alpha Chi Omega Foundation has were Alpha Chis: Alexa Scharfenberg Bridges finally untied the strings on a secret it has (Epsilon Lambda, The University of Texas at been keeping! On July 9, the Foundation Arlington) and our coach's wife, Mary Grace launched the Common Bond. Uncommon Impact. Delatour Mewett (Epsilon Lambda). The team campaign - a $25 million campaign to empower real, went on to win their USA Hockey national 16U strong women. championship that season." Our headquarters staff team - LYRE SPOTTING along with countless volunteers, donors and members - are SO excited to see the uncommon CABO DA ROCA AQUI impact this campaign will make ONDE A TERRA SE ACABA E 0 MAR COMECA on current and future sisters. You (CAMÕES) PONTA MAIS OCIDENTAL DO can read more about the campaign CONTINENTE EUROPEU starting on page 32, but with the space I have left, I want to challenge you to think about the uncommon impact Alpha Chi Omega has had on you. Is it the lifelong friends you've made? The leadership CAMARA MUNICIPAL DE SINTR skills you've gained? The growth you've experienced? 1979 LATITUDE 38°47 NORTE The difference you've made? For me, it's all of this and LONGITUDE 9°30 OESTE ALTITUDE 140 ACIMA DO NIVEL more. MEDIO DAS AGUAS The common bond I share with more than 300,000 Three Mu (Simpson College) alumnae - Kathy women across the world inspires me each day to Goodwin Brackney, Pam Leahigh Zimmerman seek the heights. I can't wait to see the ways this and Denise Griffey - took their Lyre to the most campaign will help shape the future for each sister, western point in continental Europe during a trip for Alpha Chi Omega and for the communities where to Spain and Portugal with their alma mater. we make an uncommon impact. EDITOR'S NOTE Lauren Filippini Alpha Chi (Butler University) Due to disruptions at the printer of The Lyre, Marketing and Communications Manager this issue is a few weeks delayed and does not Editor, The Lyre have its usual cover varnish. Future issues will return to our normal schedule and appearance, and we appreciate your understanding. 2 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Contributors Alpha Chi Omega National President KENIS MCGOUGH DUNNE Lynne Herndon (GAMMA NU, SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY) National Vice Presidents Kenis Dunne has spent her career working with words. Jari Askins Leslie Abramsky Block She is the author of two books, The Good, the Bad, the Kelli Rodriguez Currie Mother-in-Law and Maribel Broomstick: Curly-haired Girls Just Cassie Gerhardt Want to Have Fun. On page 44, Kenis shares about her life- Jill Sabatino Lacy long friendship with a sister and the way the two came together to create Chief Executive Officer Maribel's book. Katie Lampinen Gaffin LORETTA GOOD Senior Director of Education and Engagement Loretta is the chief marketing officer at the National Amy Colvin Mustafa Panhellenic Conference. For this issue, she provided an update on NPC's annual meetings and the work NPC is Director of Marketing and Communications doing for the sorority experience; read more on page 39. Amanda Spice JOANNA RICE Marketing and Communications (IOTA NU, UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SAN DIEGO) Manager Lauren Filippini The senior medical writer for Capwell Communications, Joanna is also the chapter advisor for lota Nu. She used The Lyre is published quarterly. her love of writing to share her experience at convention POSTMASTER: Send address changes as a first-time attendee on page 17. to The Lyre 5635 Castle Creek Parkway N. Dr. ALINA RUBIN Indianapolis, IN 46250-4304 (ZETA TAU, VILLANOVA UNIVERSITY) Submission Deadlines Alina is a public relations & advertising major with a Fall issue July 1 minor in ethics, set to graduate in 2024. She loves to scuba Winter issue - October 1 Spring issue - January 1 dive and travel, and she is passionate about leading her life Summer issue - April 1 with creativity. Read about how her sisters supported her in an innovative project on page 5. 317-579-5050 alphachiomega.org Additional contributing writers this issue are Amanda LaBrot, Mary Ann Beabon and editor@alphachiomega.org Lou Ann Wilcox (Alpha Nu centennial story, page 10); Mollie McCredie Brantley and Kathy Kingsbury (Alpha Kappa centennial story, page 11); K. Knox "Lighthorse" Nunnally Our Mission (campaign donor story, page 34); and Lynne Allenspach, Fulie Davis and Foyce St. Clair Through the Real. Strong. Women. Experience, Alpha Chi Omega (campaign donor story, page 35). cultivates impactful communities where women are inspired to STAFF CONTRIBUTORS connect, lead, grow and serve. SALLY CUTLER, HISTORIAN AND ARCHIVIST FRATERNITY GRACE GARDNER, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION AND LEADERSHIP INITIATIVES COMMUNICATIONS RACHEL HALEY, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF HARM REDUCTION ASSOCIATION EMILY ROSE JACOBSON, DIRECTOR OF HARM REDUCTION LAURA KNOBEL, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF LIFETIME ENGAGEMENT AMY COLVIN MUSTAFA, SENIOR DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION AND ENGAGEMENT NPC ELIZA PAYNE, HOUSING OPERATIONS MANAGER national panhellenic conference EMMA WILLE, MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR THE LYRE 3 CORNER OFFICE Alpha Chi Omega Alpha Chi Omega Words of Wisdom BY LYNNE HERNDON (ALPHA UPSILON, THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA), NATIONAL PRESIDENT Adapted from remarks at the convention Carnation Celebration have always difficult times, your Alpha Chi Omega sisters are there I been inspired for you. by short sayings or words of wisdom. From the day I walked through the front door, my When I was chapter Alpha Chi Omega sisters gave me confidence and president at Alabama, belief in myself. My sisters encouraged me to join I ended each chapter many campus activities and run for Alpha Chi Omega meeting with words executive board positions. They even pushed me into that I hoped would running for Homecoming Queen, believe it or not. inspire my chapter LYNNE HERNDON I did not see myself in that role, but they saw me as sisters. These brief sayings deserving. I did not win that honor, but I knew no motivate me and sometimes change the way I process matter what, my sisters were cheering me on. what has happened. My professional career has been very rewarding, and I I still today read and save in my photos words that am fortunate to tell you that I have never experienced inspire me. For instance, "Hardships often prepare a glass ceiling. I know, however, that many other ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny." Leaders women have, which is why Alpha Chi Omega is still SO have great opportunities to show others the way and relevant today. instill confidence in tumultuous times. We need to uplift and support each other. Encourage It's also important to remember that much is learned and advocate for each other. We need to come together and confidence is built in difficult moments. Another and foster in each other that strong internal belief that saying that I love is, "Not all storms come to disrupt "I can do it!" SO that if we encounter an obstacle, we your life. Some come to clear the path." These words truly know we can push through it. reframe a tough or unhappy time and create a rainbow of hope that one can overcome, as well as be stronger The final saying I will share with you is one that you and happier after. And it's comforting to know that in will be familiar with: "Together let us seek the heights." I am always fascinated how our history remains relevant and how a statement from previous years is equally applicable today. Our Founders wanted a place for women to join, be together and feel supported, and "It's comforting to know that in thus they started Alpha Chi Omega. And we have been difficult times, your Alpha Chi coming together, supporting each other and seeking the heights ever since that founding day. Omega sisters are there for you." 4 ALPHA CHI OMEGA P51 Solving a Problem, Supported by Sisters BY ALINA RUBIN to contribute (ZETA TAU, VILLANOVA UNIVERSITY) ideas and fill out VILLANOVA VILLANOV questionnaires. UNIVERSITY UNIVERSIT hile many factors contribute to the W unforgettable glitz of sorority formals, By winter I was most would agree the epicenter of the pitching the app experience is the party dress. However, because of to investors and college pressures and social media, these gorgeous it terrified me. My dresses are destined to be purchased and then worn sisters would make VILLANOVA only once. When I arrived at Villanova, I saw many me stand in front of VILL Tonight's Dress ANOV UNIV stored in boxes under friends' beds, looking sadly them and practice luscious and needing to be let out. my speech over and over until I got it ALINA RUBIN WITH HER AWARD While I noticed that some sorority sisters traded dresses, right. FROM WINNING THE VILLANOVA I thought that process could be made a lot easier and STUDENT ENTREPRENEURSHIP the quantity of dresses a woman could select from Ultimately, Tonight's COMPETITION could be greatly expanded. So of course, I decided to Dress, the name of make an app. As well as providing a small income my application, won first place in the campus-wide source for users, the app would reduce the hurdles some entrepreneurship competition and $10,000 - which students face when trying to afford formal dresses. The I used to build a prototype. After almost five months goal would be to make these events more accessible of engineering, we had a somewhat functioning beta by sharing these formerly single-use dresses. Not only release before the school year ended. My sisters' support, would this be ecologically sustainable, but the app feedback and encouragement were incredible. They would help users build bonds within the community. reached out asking how they could help. As we start the new school year, some sisters are doing marketing and I had never done anything like this before. I had no others are helping with finance. idea what I was doing and was trying to learn as I went. Doing something new (and SO publicly) was terrifying. Alpha Chi Omegas from other chapters across the What if they don't like it? What if it doesn't work? country are helping get Tonight's Dress implemented on their campuses. I reached out via Instagram, and I am pretty introverted, SO sharing the initial idea they were all quick to respond and eager to learn more with my Alpha Chi Omega chapter was intimidating. - it really demonstrated the strength of the Alpha Chi However, at every meeting, our sisterhood grew Omega sisterhood across universities. We have plans immensely, and I could feel my support increase. As to be on almost all campuses with Greek life by 2024. we were still struggling through the pandemic, our As the users of the app grow nationally, I'm glad the Sunday night meetings became a place to talk freely origins lead back here, to Villanova Alpha Chi. about feelings, experiences, ideas with no judgment. It was in this warm environment that I ran my proposal To learn more, follow @Tonights.Dress on Instagram or email by members of the Zeta Tau chapter and asked them rubin@tonightsdress.com. THE LYRE 5 AXI NEWS THE TOGETHER LEADERSHIP AND IMPACT ISSUE THE Ligre Our Next Headquarters Our 2022 Real. Strong. Women Seeking Board of Distinction Member Recommendations Surprise Sister Connections Serene Singh WOMEN AND GIRLS ADVOCATE WINTER 2021 VOLUME 124 ISSUE 2 Alpha Chi Omega VOLUME The Lyre DIGITAL MAGAZINE Beginning with this fall 2022 issue, The Lyre will be Goes Digital! available publicly on Issuu, a digital publication platform. Each quarter, the digital issue will be released in tandem with the print issue; Alpha Chi Omega will let you know it's live via email and social media. At READ OUR MAGAZINE IN issuu.com/alphachiomega. you'll be able to experience PRINT OR ONLINE AND your favorite Alpha Chi Omega content in a seamless CONNECT WITH SISTERS! digital flipbook. The Issuu platform allows you to search by keyword (like your chapter name), click links to go BY LAUREN FILIPPINI (ALPHA CHI, directly to more information and resources, and share BUTLER UNIVERSITY), MARKETING AND articles with others! COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER Digital access is available to anyone - members and nonmembers alike. Sisters of Alpha Chi Omega can S ince 1894, The Lyre has been a way to connect read each issue of The Lyre wherever they are and on Alpha Chi Omega sisters. Whether sharing news any device. The stories of our sisterhood will also be of the Fraternity, publishing members' writing or accessible to friends and family members who want highlighting accomplishments of real, strong women, to learn more about the organization their members The Lyre brings together our sisterhood. In continuing love SO dearly. In addition, as potential new members the legacy and tradition of The Lyre, Alpha Chi Omega seek information about the sorority experience and the is thrilled to connect even more sisters and provide our chapters on their campus, they'll be able to read about magazine in a new way - digitally! our Real. Strong. Women. Experience and what it can offer them. 20 Summer Lyre 2022 1 month ago It is our hope will be shared with them digitally. Reducing the print that the digital magazine's distribution helps offset the ever-rising costs ON CAMPUS Lyre will increase of printing and postage, and the digital issue ensures Back to Basics: Sisterhood in 2022 connections our collegiate members never miss the news of their between sisters sisterhood - and can access that content on campus, at and to our home and on the go, instead of waiting to read it when Fraternity. When they return to their permanent residence! you read about a sister reaching If you're reading this article online and want to start the height of her receiving print copies of The Lyre, we invite you to profession, send visit the Foundation page at alphachiomega.org and the article to your select "Donor Recognition and Engagement" to learn mentee. When more about the Life Loyal Roll. You can also email you are inspired foundation@alphachiomega.org to connect with a staff by a chapter's member about your path to the Life Loyal Roll. 34/76 philanthropic More Like This work, tag your READ ALONG HOW YOU PREFER executive board leaders in the social Content will be the same across the digital and print media comments. versions - SO it's up to you how you read The Lyre. When you have a story to tell or a member to highlight, Maybe it's on your laptop at the office or on campus let us know! during a lunch break. Or at your kitchen table flipping through the physical pages with your morning coffee. PRINT MAGAZINE Or on your phone waiting for the kids after school. It could even be a combination! We also know that there's something special about receiving The Lyre in your mailbox each quarter and No matter how you read The Lyre, these are the stories paging through each issue to see the faces of sisters and of our sisters today. And if reading this issue makes you read their stories. For the most part, this experience will wonder about our previous generations of sisters, you're continue for those who have been receiving physical in luck! All past issues of The Lyre - all the way back to copies of The Lyre. 1894 - are accessible digitally on our history website. Just visit alphachiomega.historyit.com and select "The Since 2019, alumnae members who have made Lyre" in the menu. While you're there, explore the cumulative gifts of $299 or more to the Alpha Chi Image Gallery, the Timeline and more from our digital Omega Foundation have reached the Life Loyal Roll archives. and received The Lyre in print as part of our donor communications strategy. This will continue! Sisters We look forward to connecting with you over the news on the Life Loyal Roll will receive their print magazine of Alpha Chi Omega and the stories of real, strong every three months and can read the same content in women. the digital version. No longer will you need to cut out or photocopy an article to send to a sister - just point READ THE FALL ISSUE her to the online version where she can read it too! ONLINE! OPEN YOUR PHONE CAMERA TO Collegiate members will receive the fall, spring and SCAN THIS QR CODE TO summer issues in physical form to their permanent ACCESS OUR FALL LYRE address on file with headquarters; the winter issue OR VISIT ISSUU.COM/ ALPHACHIOMEGA. AXO NEWS A Conversation Starter TEN YEARS OF THE HARM REDUCTION ALLIANCE BY RACHEL HALEY (OMICRON, BAKER According to Kyle, the partnership began to UNIVERSITY), ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF materialize in early February 2012 at a conference. "In HARM REDUCTION a presentation, Amy Colvin Mustafa, then Alpha Chi Omega's assistant director of risk management [who is O ver the course of the past decade, Alpha Chi now the senior director of education and engagement], Omega has been a proud partner and used a red SOLO cup graphic, and I knew immediately collaborator of the Harm Reduction Alliance we had the perfect concept for our first poster," he (HRA), a committed group of fraternity and sorority shares. headquarters staff within the harm reduction and risk management space that are dedicated to advancing and Following the conference, Alpha Chi Omega became addressing the health and safety of collegiate members a partner alongside Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity and Zeta nationwide. Through the development of educational Tau Alpha Fraternity. In June 2014, the partnership resources on relevant and emerging public health expanded to its fourth group with the addition of issues, the HRA has evolved and remained adaptive to Sigma Nu Fraternity. Fred Dobry, Sigma Nu's director meet the wellness concerns and needs of fraternity and of health and safety, is credited for formally naming sorority members. the partnership as the Harm Reduction Alliance to reflect the collective work of the group's risk education By providing peer-facilitated resources, print posters campaigns and prevention education. and much more, the HRA has continued to deliver on its founding mission: to equip collegiate members to THEN AND NOW take the lead on starting conversations about well- being with their peers to promote positive, healthy Since its formation, the HRA has sought to combine its choices in the college environment. member groups' resources, knowledge and expertise to address key issues affecting college students. With one ESTABLISHING THE simple message or tagline, the group has strived to start HARM REDUCTION ALLIANCE timely dialogue on prevention topics relevant to the student experience and motivate healthy action. The concept of the HRA was first developed in 2012 based on research gathered by Dr. Lori Hart, then the Between the four member groups, each takes the director of prevention education for Pi Kappa Phi lead in producing the resources on a rotating basis Fraternity, and Kyle Pendleton, then the director of throughout the academic year. The accompanying harm reduction and education for Zeta Tau Alpha conversation starters are a staple piece of each project, Fraternity. Both discovered in the early 1980s that a way to create microlearning opportunities during prevention posters were being created by fraternal chapter meetings, risk management programs or groups and circling among collegiate chapters event-specific education. As of spring 2022, 39 social independently. Kyle, who continues to serve Zeta Tau media campaigns, peer-facilitated conversation starters, Alpha Fraternity as the senior director harm reduction and digital and print posters have been produced & university relations, shares that he and Lori agreed by the HRA on a wide array of subjects, including "it was such a simple, yet effective way to 'start the hazing prevention, alcohol, drug misuse, sexual assault conversation" on a particular prevention topic." awareness and mental health. 8 ALPHA CHI OMEGA When you fill me up, KEEP YOUR F O C US BEER 12 OZ KNOW THE STRENGTH (PROOF) KNOW THE AMOUNT (OUNCES) KNOW THE TIME (CONSUMPTION 1 RATE) WINE 4 OZ LIQUOR 1.25 OZ 80 PROOF CANNABIS AND MARIJUANA CAN IMPACT YOUR BRAIN AND GPA IN NEGATIVE WAYS. SAFE, RESPONSIBLE AND LEGAL let's have a party. MESSAGE BROUGHT TO YOU BY: ZETA TAU ALPHA YK H PI KAPPA PHI Alpha Chi Omega Alpha hi Omega Kappa Kappa Gamma PIKE FRATERNITY PI KAPPA PHI Sigma Nu Fraternity ZETA TAU ALPHA FRATERNITY THE FIRST POSTER PRODUCED BY THE THE SPRING 2022 "KEEP YOUR FOCUS" ORIGINAL HRA MEMBER GROUPS: POSTER IS THE MOST RECENT CAMPAIGN ALPHA CHI OMEGA, ZETA TAU ALPHA AND PRODUCED BY THE HRA. IT CENTERED ON PIKAPPA PHI THE POTENTIALLY NEGATIVE CONSEQUENCES CANNABINOID USAGE CAN HAVE ON STUDENTS' ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE. As the landscape of higher education continues to KEEP THE CONVERSATION GOING evolve, the HRA understands its focus will also change with Generation Z (born 1997-2012) and Generation As Alpha Chi Omega's risk management philosophy Alpha (born 2011-25). With technology being at the affirms, "the health and safety of our members is forefront of collegiate members' daily experience, Kyle paramount to the Alpha Chi Omega experience shares that the HRA recognizes "prevention education and should be what every member strives for." Our doesn't need to be an hour-long workshop to be engagement and partnership in the HRA keeps the effective ... [that] social media and 'stories' have allowed conversation going on healthy sisterhood for our for not only promotion of the posters, but also topic- members today, tomorrow and into the future. All HRA specific mini-campaigns posted on various platforms." resources can be found under "Educational Posters" The HRA has also increased its digital presence by in the Member Programming section of our website. creating its first TikTok video promoting safe spring VPs risk management can also anticipate receiving the break tips and adding QR codes to HRA posters to newest series of HRA posters and conversation starters broaden the accessibility and reach of materials. beginning in fall 2022. THE LYRE 9 AXO NEWS Celebrating 100 Years of Alpha Nu BY AMANDA LABROT, MARY ANN BEAHON AND LOU ANN WILCOX (ALPHA NU, UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI) A lumnae from as far away as Alaska and as close as Kansas City and St. Louis traveled to Columbia, Missouri, on the weekend of April 22-24, 2022 to celebrate Alpha Chi Omega's 100th anniversary at the University of Missouri. The chapter was chartered in August 1922. Sisters from seven decades participated in the various centennial celebration events and could be seen all over Mizzou's campus. Current collegiate members volunteered as hostesses, gave house tours, checked in guests and assisted with logistics. The weekend opened with happy hours on Friday evening ALPHA NU CHAPTER EXECUTIVE BOARD at three Columbia establishments that have been popular LEADERS WITH THE CENTENNIAL PLAQUE with students for decades. Reserved areas were decorated and made it easy for sisters to reconnect. Alumnae spent The milestone and memorial brunch at the chapter Saturday morning touring the chapter house (the original house on Sunday morning provided an opportunity to part was built in 1925 with numerous additions and recognize sisters who have entered Chapter Eternal since upgrades since), giving them a chance to see similarities 1954 (initiation class of the oldest attending member) and changes since their time at Alpha Nu. They checked until now. National Vice President Jari Askins (Psi, The out their old bedrooms and found pictures of themselves University of Oklahoma) led the Membership Milestones as collegians throughout the halls. The chapter house Ceremony, pinning women celebrating 25, 50 and 60 years was in tip-top shape inside and out, and alumnae were of sisterhood. Singing of "The Toast" and "Alpha Chi" complimentary of the facility and landscaping. and a Rededication to the Bond Ceremony followed the pinning. The collegiality of the women and the beauty of A sold-out gala on Saturday night featured a our Ritual made for a fitting conclusion to the centennial memorabilia room including original charter documents. celebration. Representatives from the university and Alpha Chi Omega were part of the evening's program, and alumnae who To continue the chapter's legacy at Mizzou, the Centennial have volunteered for Alpha Chi in any capacity were Planning Committee established a scholarship fund recognized. The program concluded with the Symphony for Alpha Nu seniors through the Alpha Chi Omega and a toast to 100 more years for Alpha Nu. Foundation. As of late summer, nearly 90 generous donors have given more than $35,000 to endow the scholarship. JANEL OSBORN SALMEN '65 AND SHIRLEY LAKE CAGE '65 All donations to the scholarship fund are tax-deductible and can be pledged for up to five years on a monthly, quarterly or annual basis through the Foundation. Alumnae interested in making a one-time gift or starting a pledge can visit give.alphachiomega.org/AlphaNua Many thanks to the Centennial Planning Committee, chaired by Jessi Meredith Caldera '03, who met virtually for two years to plan and prepare. Alpha Kappa Celebrates 100 Years BY MOLLIE MCCREDIE BRANTLEY AND KATHY KINGSBURY (ALPHA KAPPA, UNIVERSITY OF OREGON) O ne hundred (plus one) years after our charter with the 100-year plaque, followed by an impromptu choir on June 23, 1921, nine decades of sisters (1940s entertaining us with "Dear Alpha Chi Omega." Auction to 2020s) gathered on the University of Oregon winners were announced, as well as recognition: the campus in Eugene, Oregon to celebrate their sisterhood and alumna who traveled the farthest was Donna Kunowsky their love for Alpha Kappa chapter of Alpha Chi Omega. Potter '74 from Australia, the alumna with the earliest initiation date was Laura Pearson Erickson '49 and the Our weekend celebration, June 17-19, started with Friday alumna who has been involved in Alpha Kappa the registration held at the chapter house where alumnae longest was Sue Strankman Paiement '74. received goody bags full of Alpha Chi swag. Shrieks, laughter, hugs and posing for photos on the front steps Sunday was a well-attended Good-Bye Breakfast at the filled the day. Tours of the house with information about chapter house, followed by more tours, group pictures, lots remodeled rooms and upgrades were led by local alumnae. of hugs, tears and sharing of contact information. Positive comments punctuated everyone's delight of how beautiful our 95-year-old mansion looked and how well it Funds collected through the silent auction will go to has been preserved. Decades-old scrapbooks were paged the Alpha Kappa Centennial Educational Assistance through while alumnae found themselves transported Grant created by the local house corporation board back in time. In the evening, the celebrating continued with continuing support by Alpha Kappa alumnae. with the varied decades dining at favorite local restaurants. A scholarship will be awarded each year through the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation to a deserving Alpha Kappa Saturday morning offered a casual breakfast at the collegiate member. Fundraising and generous donations house, then alumnae loaded onto buses for tours of local raised $30,000; for each $25,000 raised, another $1,000 wineries. Other groups toured the campus and the UO scholarship can be awarded. If you are interested in Ducks Athletic Department including the Marcus Mariota donating, please visit give.alphachiomega.org/AlphaKappa. Sports Performance Center. Decades groups met for lunch to catch up and reminisce about life in the chapter house. Thank you to the Centennial Celebration Committee, chaired by Emily Bol Zajac '11, for persevering during Saturday evening we came together at the Downtown the difficult COVID-19 years to make the dream of the Athletic Club for dinner, a silent auction, speeches and perfect "Alpha Kappa, One Hundred Years of Sisterhood" a photo booth. Judy Long Wenger '69 was our Master of celebration come true. Ceremonies. National President Lynne Herndon presented Laurie Wright Brody '80, local house corporation president, ALPHA KAPPA SISTERS AXQ NEWS You are invited to a celebration to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the 100TH founding of the Alpha Zeta Chapter at Washington University in St. Louis, MO. ANNIVERSARY RSVP to Charlotte Mastin Ellis OF THE FOUNDING OF 314.623.8523 I cellis57us@yahoo.com ALPHA CHI OMEGA'S 8914 Litzsinger Road, St. Louis, MO ALPHA ZETA 63144 CHAPTER To support this event with a monetary donation, please contact Charlotte Mastin Ellis. Any money remaining after expenses are covered will be applied to a donation to the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation in honor of the Alpha Zeta chapter. WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY OCT 1:30 PM ALUMNI HOUSE 2 TO COMMITTEE MEMBERS 6420 FORSYTH 2022 4:00 PM Sheila Cawns, Charlotte Ellis, Nancy Mange, CLAYTON, MO 63105 Eve Kampmeinert, Barb Passanise Alpha Lambda alumnae, save the date! THE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION FOR ALPHA LAMBDA (UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA) IS PLANNED FOR NOVEMBER 5, 2022. VISIT ALPHALAMBDACENTENNIAL.COM OR EMAIL ALPHALAMBDACENTENNIAL@GMAIL.COM FOR INFORMATION. Book Club Picks T he Alumnae Book Club is wrapping up 2022 with these last three books. If you haven't joined hundreds of sisters who share a love of literature in our online club yet, it's not too late! Just search "AXO Alumnae Book Club" on Facebook and request to join to start discussing. A NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER Lori Gottlieb #1 New York Times Bestselling Author of The Nightingale KRISTIN MEXICEAN MAYBE YOU HANNAH NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER SHOULD THE A NOVEL GOTHIC TALK FOUR WINDS "Masterful gloriously moody adventure, spooky, TO smart, and wry. -VICTOR LAVALLE, author of The Changeling SOMEONE Silvia Moreno - Garcia Author of Gods of Jade and Shadow A Therapist, Her Therapist, and Our Lives Revealed OCTOBER 2022 NOVEMBER 2022 DECEMBER 2022 MEXICAN GOTHIC MAYBE YOU SHOULD TALK THE FOUR WINDS BY SILVIA MORENO- TO SOMEONE BY KRISTIN HANNAH GARCIA BY LORI GOTTLIEB The Four Winds takes us to Texas in Noemí Taboada heads to High Lori Gottlieb, bestselling author, 1934 as a drought has broken the Place, a distant house in the psychotherapist and national advice Great Plains and left millions out of Mexican countryside, to help her columnist, takes us behind the work. The Dust Bowl era has arrived newlywed cousin after receiving scenes in a therapist's life. One day, with a vengeance. Elsa Marinelli, a frantic letter. The walls of High Lori is working with patients in her like SO many of her neighbors, Place are full of secrets, hiding dark practice, and the next, she is reeling is plagued with the choice to knowledge of the family's past. As from a crisis that causes her world either fight for the land she loves Noemí digs deeper into the family's to come crashing down. Lori invites or make the dangerous trip west former mining empire, she unearths us into her world as both a clinician to California. Her story captures stories that are both violent and and patient as she examines the courage and sacrifice, as well as love maddening. Will Noemí be able to truths and fictions that we tell and hope, set against the backdrop help her cousin - or ever leave High ourselves. of one of America's most defining Place? eras - the Great Depression. THE LYRE 13 AXO NEWS Amplify Your Action OCTOBER IS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH BY GRACE GARDNER (THETA UPSILON, UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA), ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION AND LEADERSHIP INITIATIVES n the fall of 2021, Alpha Chi Omega asked our I This year, Alpha Chi Omega headquarters is distributing members to commit to doing #1Thing in support promotional materials for collegiate chapters to of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, inspired utilize in their campaigns, providing new educational by the Domestic Violence Awareness Project's campaign programs and highlighting our partnership with of the same name. In an organization with more than the One Love Foundation, a national nonprofit 240,000 living members, every member taking one organization with the goal of ending relationship abuse. small action in support of domestic violence awareness You can find out more information about Alpha Chi has the potential for a major impact. Omega's national efforts for Domestic Violence Awareness Month at alphachiomega.org and on social Sisters rallied their communities and made media@AlphaChiOmegaHQ. commitments both big and small: tabling on their campuses, learning from DVA speakers and educators, There are many ways to get involved this October: and joining national programs. It was SO inspiring to participate in a national program, connect with a local see sisters from across the country sharing messages domestic violence organization, plan a donation drive of support, hope and love with survivors and to watch or talk with your friends and family about the warning chapters coming together to fundraise for their local signs of unhealthy relationships! How can you amplify shelters and safely host events that had been put on your actions in the fight against domestic violence this pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic. October and all year long? This October during Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Alpha Chi Omega is asking members to build upon that momentum and amplify their action. YOU NEVER DESERVE TO BE MISTREATED. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT DOMESTIC Violence, more than 10 million adults experience VIOLENCE OR UNHEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS, WE domestic violence annually in the United States. Each ENCOURAGE YOU TO TEXT "LOVEIS" TO 22522 year, Alpha Chi Omega aims to reduce that number AT ANY TIME TO CONNECT WITH CONFIDENTIAL through prevention education, awareness-raising ADVOCATES FROM LOVEISRESPECT.ORG campaigns, fundraising and survivor support. Members CALL OR ONLINE CHAT WITH THE NATIONAL find a common purpose in our mission to fight against DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE AT THEHOTLINE.ORG OR 800-799-SAFE (7233). unhealthy relationships and build healthy ones, often connecting with local care providers and domestic violence organizations in their communities. 14 ALPHA CHI OMEGA 47 E E 2022 NATIONAL O CONVENTION together AO Chapman Omeo University 2022 AX AX UTAN STATE HOME UTAH HE AGGIES CONVENTION Convention Recap BY LAUREN FILIPPINI (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER fter four long years, sisters were finally able A to be back together at our 61st National Convention. The weekend was filled with networking, education, business and plenty of sisterhood time, of course! Convention began with the Reunion Night Dinner on Friday, July 8. Women connected with sisters from Committee. Following the business meeting, sisters their chapter of initiation, Olympians were recognized gathered for the Foundation Luncheon, where the for their convention attendance, and chapter delegates Common Bond. Uncommon Impact. campaign was received their centennial sashes. The evening was announced (learn more starting on page 32). filled with hugs and laughter, rounded out with our Convention Choir leading us in favorite songs and On Saturday afternoon, members attended educational chants. sessions, starting with Judi Holler's keynote, "Everyday Improviser: Say Yes [&] Turn Obstacles During Saturday morning's National Chapter Meeting, Into Opportunities." Breakout sessions provided we welcomed our newest collegiate and alumnae takeaways on sisterhood across the generations, chapters and heard from national leaders during the healthy relationships, inclusion and more. Saturday State of the Enterprise. Delegates also passed the slates wrapped up with the Carnation Celebration, which for the National Council and National Nominating included remarks from the National President and chief executive officer, recognition of National Council members and valued guests, and favorite songs. Sunday morning saw the delegates vote on Fraternity business. Attendees also recognized sisters who passed since we last gathered, and they celebrated the long commitment of members receiving their 50- and 60- year milestone pins. Throughout the weekend, sisters were recognized with the Fraternity's highest individual and chapter awards. Opportunities to learn about Alpha Chi Omega history, network in the Women & Wisdom Lounge, support a local domestic violence service provider and enjoy the society of their sisters filled the three days. Each sister in attendance took away something special from convention, and we collectively celebrated our time together as Alpha Chi Omegas. 16 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Together In Bellevue CONVENTION of pride I felt as we conducted the Formal Opening REFLECTIONS FROM A Ceremony together. FIRST-TIME ATTENDEE The same held true that evening, at the Carnation BY JOANNA RICE Celebration. Surrounded by hundreds of fellow sisters (IOTA NU, UNIVERSITY OF in semi-formal attire singing "Grace" and "The Toast," I CALIFORNIA SAN DIEGO) could not help but once again feel proud to call these women sisters and to feel connected seeing all of us in F rom July 8-10, 2022, sisters from across one room, together. the country gathered for the 61st National Convention in Bellevue, The second National Chapter Meeting began with a Washington. The Fraternity had Hall of Memory ceremony honoring several women not convened in person since who recently passed. Listening to the inspirational 2018, as the 2020 convention was stories of their accomplishments decades ago, they canceled due to the COVID-19 clearly embodied the concept of Real. Strong. Women. pandemic. As such, the 2022 long before it became our tagline. We recognized a convention was appropriately remaining list of sisters we lost by sitting in silence, themed "Together." together. As a first-time attendee, I did not JOANNA RICE Although it felt like it was over before it began, I know what to expect. Regardless, am grateful for having the opportunity to attend I was ready to immerse myself in convention. I just wish we could have had another day everything Alpha Chi and looked forward to being with or two together. During our time in Bellevue: fellow sisters and sharing this experience together. We participated in our Ritual, together While walking to get my complimentary headshot, I We expanded our knowledge, together saw two extremely special sisters - both played integral We sang songs, led by the harmonious, angelic roles in starting the alumnae chapter responsible for voices of our Convention Choir, together the installation of the Iota Nu chapter at UC San Diego, of which I am a charter member. When I mentioned It was in these moments, when members collectively this was my first time attending convention, both sisters engaged in Ritual or song, where goosebumps appeared took me under their wing. I knew I was in safe hands as I became teary-eyed. These were happy tears, when I learned they have attended every convention (13 prompted by the incredible sense of pride I felt being total) together. amongst SO many talented, intelligent and exceptional real, strong women. We are young and old; we come Saturday was the highlight of my convention from chapters across the U.S., with members located experience. The day began with the first of two National across the globe; we have different views and paths in Chapter Meetings. Being in the same room with life, yet despite our differences, we share a common approximately 600 fellow members, all wearing white, bond through our sisterhood in Alpha Chi Omega. Our gathered for the purpose of conducting chapter business bond is unwavering, and we will continue seeking the on a national level, was impressive to say the least. heights, together. What I did not prepare for was the overwhelming sense THE LYRE 17 CONVENTION Alpha Chi Omega together 2022 National Convention JULY 8-10, 2022 BELLEVUE, WASHINGTON Thank You, Sponsors! OLYMPIAN DIGITAL PHOTO HEALTH AND SISTERHOOD Herff Jones EXPERIENCE WELLNESS SPONSORS SPONSORS MyChapterRoom Blue & Co. Gill Grilling MEALS CSL Management Greek Goods by Vantine ShopAlphaChi.com PRESIDENTIAL Digital Pix & Kemp Interiors RECEPTION TECHNOLOGY SCM Architects Composites TreanorHL Billhighway Fraternal Law Partners, Campus Cooks CONVENTION KICK- a Division of Manley THANKS TO DIGITAL OFF DINNER Burke, LPA PIX & COMPOSITES College Fresh The National Bank of FOR MANY OF THE MJ Sorority CSI, Inc. PHOTOS USED Indianapolis PDR Interiors THROUGHOUT THIS Greek House Chefs SPREAD, INCLUDING THE GROUP PHOTO 18 ALPHA CHI OMEGA ABOVE. * Star Star Challenge Challenge THA N K Success! Y O U! Star Challenge concluded after convention raising more than $186,000 for the Real. Strong. Women. Fund from more than 515 * donors. Thank you to each donor who took the time to honor a sister or friend with a star! See you Alpha Chi Omega FOUNDATION in 2024! THE DATE PHOTO:BY SCOTTCRONE, COURTESY OF VISIT INDY ALPHA CHI OMEGA'S 62ND JULY 12-14, 2024 NATIONAL CONVENTION INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA THE LYRE 19 CONVENTION Individual was involved in the campus community as a lab assistant, a member of the St. Jude Executive Board and a WOW leader. Collegiate AMY DUBOIS RIETH EMERGING LEADER AWARD Awards This award goes to a newly initiated emerging leader who has embraced the ideals of Alpha Chi Omega; has shown great potential to serve her chapter, her campus and/or ber community; and is already taking steps to actively participate. CONGRATULATIONS TO THESE COLLEGIATE WOMEN AND LIV ANTONIOLLI VOLUNTEERS FOR THEIR (GAMMAXI, WESTERN EFFORTS IN 2021! MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY) Liv has shown up as ESTELLE LEONARD a strong leader of the OUTSTANDING SENIOR AWARD Gamma Xi chapter since This award honors seniors who she started in the chapter best represent the ideals of Alpha Chi Omega. by serving as the parents' chair and the freshman ANNA BETH PAYNE representative on the chapter relations and standards (ALPHA UPSILON, board. In July, when the chapter was in need of a new THE UNIVERSITY OF VP recruitment, Liv stepped up and took the position ALABAMA) on even when recruitment was right around the corner. Anna Beth served her chapter as both the junior OUTSTANDING COLLEGIATE Panhellenic delegate ADVISOR and then later as the This award honors an advisor who is the on-the-ground Panhellenic delegate, which support to a collegiate chapter, provides mentorship and allowed her to be a voice for Alpha Chi Omega and the ensures the standards of Alpha Chi Omega are upheld. fraternity/sorority community. Through her position in SGA, she was able to serve the Tuscaloosa community by BRYANNA ANDERSON helping to coordinate the university's Week of Service, (KAPPA TAU, which partnered with organizations such as the SAFE UNIVERSITY OF Center, the Red Cross and the West Alabama Food Bank CONNECTICUT) Bryanna is an alumna ANDREA MORENO initiate of the Kappa Tau (GAMMA PI, UNIVERSITY chapter and now serves OF TAMPA) as the Kappa Tau chapter Andrea served her chapter advisor, showing through as both VP new member her actions that Alpha Chi Omega membership is education and chapter for life. When the chapter experienced challenges, president, where she went Bryanna dedicated countless hours to strategy calls with above and beyond for her headquarters, personal calls to members and mentoring chapter members as a calls with chapter leadership. strong, empathetic and trustworthy individual. Andrea 20 ALPHA CHI OMEGA OUTSTANDING ADVISORY BOARD OUTSTANDING LOCAL HOUSE This award honors collegiate advisory boards for providing CORPORATION VOLUNTEER AWARD individualized support to officers and working together to This award recognizes an individual LHC board member guide chapters to their greatest success. who has made a positive impact on the work of the LHC and the collegiate chapter. LAMBDA MU (TRINITY COLLEGE) ADVISORY BOARD KELLI RODRIGUEZ CURRIE (THETA PI, UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, DAVIS) Kelli worked tirelessly to strengthen the relationship between Rho (University of Washington) chapter members and the house corporation. After COVID-19 closed the house in spring 2020, Kelli led efforts to reduce fall 2020 rent while also preventing the LHC from needing to dip into its savings account, keeping everyone on solid financial ground. Since the Lambda Mu chapter's founding in 2017, LHC/CHAPTER COLLABORATION the advisory board has been strong and consistent, AWARD providing dedicated and personalized support to This award is given to an LHC that partners and ensures a chapter leaders and the general membership. Particular positive working relationship with the collegiate chapter. focus has been placed on recruitment, and through the advisory board's support, the chapter has become self- NORTHWEST ALPHA CHI OMEGA CORPORATION sustaining just a few years after establishment. GAMMA PI (UNIVERSITY OF TAMPA) ADVISORY BOARD Great efforts have been made to recruit and retain a full advisory board to provide consistent support to The LHC created a collaborative relationship with Rho collegiate leaders (University of Washington) members, committing to and members. The Gamma Pi chapter has seen great transparency in decision-making. The University of success thanks to long-term commitments to service Washington was one of the first to close during the from its advisory board, with special mention to the pandemic, and the LHC met almost daily via Zoom chapter advisor for her dedication and commitment. with chapter members and advisors to share changing guidance and continually evaluate next steps. THE LYRE 21 CONVENTION BETA DELTA (COLLEGE OF WILLIAM & MARY) Collegiate Chapter Awards OUR COLLEGIATE CHAPTERS WORKED HARD THROUGHOUT 2021 TO CREATE AN Beta Delta leaders strive to ensure all members feel IMPACTFUL MEMBERSHIP EXPERIENCE. they are getting what they want from their sorority experience. Chi Connections programming matched COLLEGIATE CHAPTER members in small groups based on common interests PROGRESS AWARD and helped sisters build relationships, with additional This award is presented to the chapters that have displayed programming focused on diversity, equity and inclusion; significant growth and progress in the areas of chapter financial literacy; and career preparation. operations, member support and development. EPSILON OMEGA (CAL POLY, SAN LUIS OBISPO) KAPPA NU (CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY) With an overall focus of ensuring members feel Kappa Nu's success is thanks to a collaborative approach included and valued, the Epsilon Omega chapter made to chapter operations, where chapter members could outstanding progress in all areas of chapter operations. lead from every seat. The chapter focused energy on The executive board helped members continue to find continuous open bidding in both semesters, building value in the sorority experience by planning virtual alumnae connections and helping members balance events when needed and developing innovative and their academic priorities with chapter life. relevant programming. DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION AWARD Epsilon Kappa (California State University, This award is presented to chapters that host a Fullerton) signature event or initiative that highlights their efforts in the area of diversity and inclusion. Chapters educate Alpha Mu (Indiana University) members on issues related to diversity and inclusion internally as well as participate in diversity and Epsilon Omega (Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo) inclusion efforts in their community and on campus. COLLEGIATE CHAPTER THETA LAMBDA (CLEMSON UNIVERSITY) NATIONAL COUNCIL TROPHY This award is given annually to the chapters that displayed IPHA CHI the most significant achievements in chapter management, member support and development. DELTA ZETA (CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY) Theta Lambda chapter implemented a year-long education program focused on adjusting to college life, adjusting to a sorority, creating balanced habits and body positivity. With the university shifting at the last minute to host recruitment in person, Theta Lambda leaders worked diligently throughout pre-recruitment Delta Zeta chapter developed its programming week to educate the majority of their members who opportunities around mental health to include had never experienced an in-person recruitment. education at chapter meetings and check-ins where sisters are able to connect, share coping mechanisms and find support. When in-person events returned, Delta Zeta implemented trainings before each event to CHAPTER INNOVATION AWARD keep sisters safe and the chapter aligned with Alpha Chi Omega policies. This award is presented to chapters that host a signature event or initiative that is creative and ALPHA UPSILON (THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA) innovative. Gamma Xi (Western Michigan University) Kappa Sigma (The University of Southern Mississippi) Zeta Omicron (Vanderbilt University) Alpha Kappa (University of Oregon) Beta Sigma (University of Georgia) Nu (University of Colorado Boulder) Alpha Upsilon chapter hosted a wide variety of programming including speakers to educate members about domestic violence awareness and mental health, a civil rights walk around Tuscaloosa, and more. The chapter also held its third annual Dash for DVA 5K this year, raising over $20,000 for Turning Point Women's Shelter. THE LYRE 23 CONVENTION COLLEGIATE CHAPTER COLLEGIATE CHAPTER SEEKING THE HEIGHTS AWARDS CONTINUING EXCELLENCE AWARD This award is given to the chapter that has had sustained REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. EXPERIENCE success after winning the National Council Trophy within the Beta Chi (Willamette University) past five years. Alpha Beta (Purdue University) IOTA PHI (QUINNIPIAC UNIVERSITY) Delta Kappa (Sam Houston State University) Epsilon Chi (University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill) Epsilon Tau (Virginia Tech) Zeta Nu (Texas A&M University) MEMBER WELLNESS Epsilon Lambda (The University of Texas at Arlington) Iota Phi chapter received the National Council Alpha Pi (University of North Dakota) Trophy in 2019 and 2021 and continues to show its commitment to excellence. The chapter has Beta Psi (Louisiana Tech University) worked incredibly hard to overcome the challenges of navigating sorority membership with COVID-19 MEMBER RETENTION restrictions, and members have made the most of their time together, whether in person or virtually. Through Gamma Tau (Oklahoma City University) it all, the chapter has always kept sisterhood at the Zeta Upsilon (Case Western Reserve University) forefront. Epsilon Zeta (Auburn University) CHAPTER OPERATIONS Epsilon (University of Southern California) Beta Eta (Florida State University) Delta Rho (University of Arkansas) CHAPTER GROWTH Delta Zeta (Central Michigan University) Delta Epsilon (Southeast Missouri State University) Alpha Nu (University of Missouri) Zeta Sigma (Missouri State University) Individual in 1968. She went on to become the ninth women in the country to be certified in thoracic surgery and was recognized by TIME magazine in 1985 for developing one Alumnae of the top 10 open heart surgery programs in the country in Huntington, West Virginia. Awards JOY HEATH (EPSILON CHI, UNIVERSITY OF NORTH ALPHA CHI OMEGA IS THRILLED TO CAROLINA AT CHAPEL HILL) RECOGNIZE ALUMNAE SISTERS; FOR 2022, Joy is a highly honored THESE WOMEN WERE RECOGNIZED AT health care attorney and CONVENTION. one of the few women shareholders in a firm of AWARD OF ACHIEVEMENT over 200 lawyers. She regularly writes and speaks for This award is presented to one or more alumnae members associations such as the American Bar Association who have gained national recognition in their chosen Health Law Section and is the co-chair of the Health profession and/or field of study. Law Section Membership and Diversity Committee for the North Carolina Bar Association. MONICA CEPERO (BETA ETA, FLORIDA ALUMNA APPRECIATION AWARD STATE UNIVERSITY) This award is presented to an alumna who has given many Monica has spent nearly volunteer hours to Alpha Chi Omega faithfully and unselfishly 30 years in public service, through the years. from local municipal budget work to county JENNIFER SUE BUTLER and state policy advising. HARRIS In July 2020, she was (THETA LAMBDA, appointed by the Florida CLEMSON UNIVERSITY) governor to serve on the state's Commission on Human Jennifer Sue has served Relations, which is responsible for promoting fair Alpha Chi Omega at treatment and eliminating discrimination. In March the local and national 2022, she became the first Hispanic person to serve as level for a number of Broward County Administrator. years. She has supported multiple collegiate chapters in various advisory board LORRAINE RUBIS roles, chaired the National Domestic Violence Task FRANCKLE Force, served as a rotational program facilitator and (ALPHA LAMBDA, maintained active involvement in her local alumnae UNIVERSITY OF chapter and Alumnae Panhellenic. MINNESOTA) Lorraine has been a pioneer for women in the medical field since the onset of her career, when she was one of 10 women in her medical school class of 120 people THE LYRE 25 CONVENTION OUTSTANDING DEDICATION AWARD YOUNG ALUMNA AWARD The Outstanding Dedication Award recognizes alumnae who This award recognizes outstanding service to Alpha Chi currently give many volunteer hours to Alpha Chi Omega Omega by a young woman who bas been initiated in the past faithfully and unselfishly. 12 years. AUDRA LEVI PRILUCK ERICA BROWN (ALPHA PSI, UCLA) (EPSILON THETA, Audra has supported CALIFORNIA STATE Alpha Chi Omega as a UNIVERSITY, volunteer at the local SACRAMENTO) and national levels for Currently the province more than 20 years. In alumnae chair for addition to serving as the northern California lead Ritual and fraternity and northern Nevada, appreciation specialist, she is an active alumnae Erica has been an active and involved alumna across chapter member and has held a number of alumnae the Enterprise from the start. She supported her chapter officer roles. Audra has supported both her collegiate chapter in three advisory board roles chapter of initiation and her chapter of affiliation between 2016 and 2021, held various alumnae in advisory board roles and facilitated at campus chapter officer positions (including president) for conferences for the College Panhellenic Councils. Gamma Psi Gamma (Sacramento, California) and spent two years as an alumnae technology specialist DEIRDRE REASON HILL before taking on her current PAC role. (EPSILON ZETA, AUBURN UNIVERSITY) Since her time as a collegiate chapter president at Epsilon Zeta, ALUMNAE CHAPTER Deirdre has remained a SEEKING THE HEIGHTS AWARDS faithful Alpha Chi Omega volunteer, serving both COLLEGIATE SUPPORT the Fraternity and the Foundation in various roles. Iota Iota (Seattle, WA) Not only did she support her collegiate chapter on the advisory board, but she has held a number Omicron Phi Omicron (Zeta Pi Alumnae) of executive board positions in Gamma Upsilon Gamma (Orlando, Florida) and Alpha Gamma Alpha INNOVATION (Atlanta, Georgia) alumnae chapters. Deirdre is Alpha Epsilon Alpha (Washington, DC) currently the province alumnae chair for Georgia and South Carolina. Alpha Omega Alpha (Detroit, MI) MEMBERSHIP ENGAGEMENT Mu Mu (Kansas City, MO) Delta Omega Delta (Orange County, CA) MEMBERSHIP GROWTH Gamma Eta Gamma (Eugene, OR) Beta Psi Beta (Alliance, OH) 26 ALPHA CHI OMEGA GAMMA THETA GAMMA Alumnae (LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA) Chapter Awards OUR ALUMNAE CHAPTERS DEDICATE THEMSELVES TO HELPING SISTERS GROW IN THEIR LIFELONG ALPHA CHI Gamma Theta Gamma has a large and passionate EXPERIENCE. executive board, great involvement with the local collegiate chapter and national organization, and ALUMNAE CHAPTER NATIONAL engaged chapter members. For the chapter's 70th COUNCIL TROPHY anniversary this year, members have planned a series This award is presented to the alumnae chapters that best of unique gatherings to showcase their pride in exemplify the ideals and mission of Alpha Chi Omega through their Alpha Chi Omega and Gamma Theta Gamma their accomplishments in all areas of alumnae chapter membership. development. ZETA IOTA ZETA (CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA) PHILANTHROPY Sigma Sigma (St. Louis, MO) Delta Omega Delta (Orange County, CA) Over the past few years, Zeta Iota Zeta has tripled PACE its dues-paying membership, doubled the size of its executive board and added subgroups for more ways to Sigma Sigma (St. Louis, MO) connect. Annual philanthropic events and celebrations Pi Psi Pi (Beta Lambda Alumnae) of significant Alpha Chi Omega holidays use both virtual and in-person programming to allow sisters RITUAL AND FRATERNITY APPRECIATION to connect with the chapter in a variety of ways and continue to build lifelong bonds with each other. Gamma Upsilon Gamma (Orlando, FL) Epsilon Xi Epsilon (Baltimore, MD) SISTERHOOD Mu Mu (Kansas City, MO) Gamma Tau Gamma (Newport Beach, CA) THE LYRE 27 CONVENTION ALUMNAE CHAPTER CONTINUING EXCELLENCE AWARD Other This award is presented to the chapters that continue to demonstrate the values and goals of Alpha Chi Omega through all areas of alumnae chapter life; to be considered Notable for this award, a chapter must have received the National Council Trophy or Continuing Excellence Award at least once during the last five years. Awards NU NU (DENVER, COLORADO) ALPHA CHI OMEGA IS GRATEFUL FOR THE SUPPORT AND PARTNERSHIP OF MANY WHO ARE NOT SISTERS BUT WHO SUPPORT THE REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. EXPERIENCE, INCLUDING THESE RECIPIENTS OF CONVENTION AWARDS. CORPORATE AWARD This award honors a corporation or business that Nu Nu won the National Council Trophy in 2020 demonstrates generosity to Alpha Chi Omega through and has continued to thrive in the years since. The financial contributions or support and serves a vital role in chapter regularly honors important Fraternity dates furthering our organization's mission. and partners with the Nu collegiate chapter at the CSL MANAGEMENT University of Colorado Boulder for an annual Founders' Day lunch and Hall of Commitment Ceremony. CSL is a long-time partner of Alpha Chi Omega, BETA KAPPA BETA and more specifically, (DALLAS, TEXAS) the National Housing Corporation, as we all CSL work together to enhance the Real. Strong. Women. Experience through safe and competitive facilities. They are a valued business partner that provides outstanding training, education and customer service to ensure our members can connect, lead, grow and serve. Beta Kappa Beta won the National Council Trophy in 2016 and the Continuing Excellence Award in 2018. The chapter boasts a coordinated executive board and members who are engaged with the chapter and the Fraternity, with programming that focuses on philanthropy, wellness, healthy relationships, learning new skills and, of course, enjoying time with sisters. 28 ALPHA CHI OMEGA VISION AWARD This award recognizes individuals who are not members of Alpha Chi Omega for their significant contributions to NEXT the fraternity and sorority movement and are considered valuable friends of Alpha Chi Omega. AWARDS CYCLES! KRYSTAL N. CLARK Through years of volunteer service and involvement INDIVIDUAL AWARDS as a consultant and INDIVIDUAL AWARD speaker, Krystal has been NOMINATIONS OPEN IN EARLY a valued collaborator in our work to create a FALL, AND SUBMISSIONS ARE more inclusive Alpha Chi DUE BY NOVEMBER 15. Omega experience for our members. She has made tremendous contributions to COLLEGIATE CHAPTER the fraternity and sorority movement through her work AWARDS on multiple campuses, within the National Panhellenic THE COLLEGIATE CHAPTER Conference and through her company, Equip To AWARDS CYCLE RUNS Thrive, LLC. ANNUALLY. SUBMISSIONS ARE OUTSTANDING FRATERNITY/ DUE IN JANUARY. SORORITY ADVISOR AWARD This award is presented to campus-based professionals ALUMNAE CHAPTER, advising fraternity and sorority life at an institution with an LHC AND OTHER Alpha Chi Omega chapter. AWARDS THESE AWARDS ARE HANDED THE OFFICE OF FRATERNITY AND OUT IN CONVENTION YEARS. SORORITY LIFE AT [STATE STAY TUNED FOR MORE MISSISSIPPI STATE INFORMATION IN THE FUTURE! UNIVERSITY The staff went above and VISIT THE RESOURCE CENTER beyond through the entire reestablishment process ON ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG to make sure Alpha Chi Omega had every possible AND SEARCH "AWARDS" TO advantage when we returned to their campus in 2021. They created an atmosphere of support within LEARN MORE, READ AWARD the Panhellenic community, which made Alpha Chi GUIDES, AND ACCESS Omega and the Epsilon Upsilon chapter members feel ONLINE SUBMISSION AND incredibly welcomed on campus. NOMINATION FORMS! THE LYRE 29 HOUSING The NHC's Life Safety Measures HOW THE NATIONAL FOBS ARE A MORE SECURE WAY THAN KEYPADS TO ENTER A CHAPTER FACILITY. HOUSING CORPORATION IS KEEPING MEMBERS for access instead. Whereas key punch codes have to be SAFE IN OUR CHAPTER changed on a frequent basis to prevent them from being shared, fobs are assigned to specific members and allow FACILITIES for quicker action to be taken should a fob ever get lost. These days, many access control systems also allow BY ELIZA PAYNE (DELTA CHI, WILLIAM for apps on cell phones to be used to enter a chapter's WOODS UNIVERSITY), HOUSING facility. OPERATIONS MANAGER Each member of the chapter is given a fob or the cell T he safety of our members in our facilities is phone app to access the facility. Chapters are typically of the utmost importance to the National able to set specific hours of use on fobs or apps; for Housing Corporation (NHC) and central to example, access during school breaks can be turned off our mission. To us, safety means not only securing the SO that no members are able to enter the facility. physical building, but also ensuring our members feel safe living in the building, too. When our members feel FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS safe in their chapter facilities, their Alpha Chi Omega experience is elevated. When safety is taken care of, it A sprinkler system is not allows members to focus their attention on priorities just for landscape design, such as academics and sisterhood. but also for life safety measures inside chapter Here are some of the ways the National Housing facilities. A fire sprinkler Corporation focuses on maintaining safe facilities for system is used in the event our collegiate members. of a fire inside of the building. While movies ACCESS CONTROL would show sprinkler SPRINKLER SYSTEMS ARE systems simultaneously INSTALLED TO PROTECT The National Housing Corporation believes in having going haywire at the MEMBERS AND FACILITIES effective access control at properties across the country. first sign of smoke, fire FROM FIRE. This means installing systems at the chapter facility that sprinkler heads are actually heat-activated by specific all members use to securely access the building. temperatures SO that when you burn that piece of toast, not every sprinkler head goes off at once, causing water Over the last several years, the NHC has worked hard damage to your home! The NHC has worked to have to phase out punch code keypads at our buildings and fire sprinkler systems installed at chapter facilities as a focus on installing systems that use fobs or cell phones means of fire safety precautions. 30 ALPHA CHI OMEGA LIFE SAFETY INSPECTIONS There are several life safety inspections that happen at our properties on a regular basis. Fire extinguishers are inspected at least once each year in our chapter houses. We also do at least annual checks of all emergency exit lighting, emergency exit signage and smoke detectors, with smoke detector backup batteries also being checked each year. DELTA (ALLEGHENY COLLEGE) throughout facility pipes. When an abnormal water level is detected, the system will cut off water flow to the entire house. The water will not turn back on until the system is manually told to do SO. This alert allows us to check if there is an issue with the water and helps REGULAR LIFE SAFETY INSPECTIONS INCLUDE TESTING prevent damage from occurring. EMERGENCY EXIT SIGNS AND SMOKE DETECTORS. SECURITY CAMERAS AND The NHC also ensures postings of floor plans depicting MOTION SENSOR LIGHTS all emergency exit routes on every floor within the chapter facility SO that members and guests understand Many NHC properties have exterior security cameras where the nearest emergency exit is located. installed. These cameras monitor spaces such as the parking lots, sides and exterior doors of the facilities. While these cameras are not intended to be monitored BACKFLOW TESTING 24/7, they do keep a feed that can be reviewed should an incident occur. In accordance with local city and state guidelines, the NHC will perform backflow testing at each chapter Motion sensor lights are located externally on houses facility. Backflow is what will happen when the flow and turn on when movement is detected. They often of water is reversed, which leads to the contamination accompany security cameras and are placed in the same of the water entering the home. We do multiple areas, especially in parking lots. inspections to prevent this from happening SO that our members have clean water for consumption. TOTAL LEAK DETECTION With each inspection and installation of life safety Have you ever experienced a bad water leak that measures, the NHC is working to fulfill its mission: damaged your home? Water leaks can cause significant to enhance the Real. Strong. Women. Experience issues and safety concerns. One step the NHC takes to by providing safe and competitive facilities where mitigate this is to install total leak detection systems at members connect, lead, grow and serve. our properties. This system monitors the flow of water THE LYRE 31 Making History together The Alpha Chi Omega Foundation is excited to announce the launch of Common Bond. Uncommon Impact., a campaign to empower real, strong women. Common Bond Dear Sisters and Friends, We are thrilled to chair and lead the efforts of Uncommon Impact. Common Bond. Uncommon Impact. and while A CAMPAIGN TO EMPOWER REAL, STRONG WOMEN we have our own reasons for giving, we share a desire to create lasting impact on our sisterhood. The Common Bond. Uncommon Impact. campaign seeks to sustain our vision of shaping the future through powerful, transformative and everlasting connections - and we can't do that without you. During the campaign period, every gift of every size counts toward our goal and Campaign Goal helps make an uncommon impact on Alpha Chi Omega. We are proud to work with the many donors, volunteers and staff who support the Alpha Chi $25,000,000 Omega Foundation and help make our mission a reality. Loyally, $22,250,000 raised as of August 16, 2022 $5M $10M Anne Helliwell Miek Hart Gamma lota Sigma (University of Florida) (University of Iowa) Ways to given Campaign Co-Chair Campaign Co-Chair Make an uncommon impact on Alpha Chi Omega! CHAPTER SUPPORT Impact Our Fraternity is only strong when our chapters are strong. Through chapter-specific support, you'll make an impact on the next generation of real, strong women and sustain the success of your chapter. You can support chapters in the following ways: Chapter education funds to help the chapter pay FRATERNITY PROGRAMS for opportunities to connect, lead, grow and serve, like grants to attend national trainings We want our members to enjoy the benefits of the Real. Strong. Women. Experience throughout their lives. Your Chapter-specific scholarships or educational gift to support Fraternity programs will help expand and assistance grants to lower the cost of members' sustain our commitment to the lifelong experiences of all education our members in areas like these: Chapter workshops facilitated by trained Chapter housing funds (when applicable) for volunteers to help sisters work together as a construction, renovation and operation costs of chapter, create inclusive communities and support educational areas of chapter facilities, ensuring each other they are safe, competitive and affordable places for our members Virtual workshops and weekend conferences to develop relationship skills and teach members how INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS to be effective leaders When you give to support undergraduate and graduate Harm reduction and mental health programs that scholarships and educational assistance grants, your preserve member health and safety gift impacts individual members right away. Donors can give to existing endowed funds or establish a new fund to provide scholarships (merit-based) and educational Programs, resources and activities that promote assistance grants (need-based), as well as member healthy relationships and inspire our members to assistance grants for sisters facing financial difficulties lead the fight against domestic violence due to crisis situations. Financial support from the Foundation is just one way $18,600,000 Alpha Chi Omega can be there for sisters when they need support the most. in cash gifts and pledges COMMUNITY IMPACT $3,700,000 For more than 130 years, Alpha Chi Omegas have in documented planned gifts impacted the world around them through philanthropy and service. Through the Community Impact program, the Foundation supports our collegiate and alumnae chapters in raising funds to benefit domestic violence agencies and other nonprofits. Gifts to chapter Community Impact fundraisers have $15M $20M $25M an uncommon impact in local communities while also supporting the Real. Strong. Women. Fund. Learn more about Common Bond. Uncommon Impact. and ways to give at AXOuncommon.org SCAN QR CODE TO VISIT AXOUNCOMMONORG FOUNDATION A Gift to My Mother BY K. KNOX "LIGHTHORSE" NUNNALLY y mother, Kay Clyde Webb (Alpha Phi, M The University of Texas at Austin), was an organizer and, like many Alpha Chi Omega women, a natural leader. Growing up, I have fond memories of my mom being involved in many of my activities and always speaking highly of her Alpha Chi Omega experience. She was quick to write recruitment recommendation letters and often related to me the value of finding a second family in her chapter sisters. I am an only child and was KAY (FRONT ROW, RIGHT) SERVED AS VICE PRESIDENT OF THE STUDENT-FACULTY COUNCIL OF THE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION; blessed by two incredible PHOTO FROM THE 1966 CACTUS YEARBOOK, SHARED BY parents growing up. Sadly, ALPHA PHI CHAPTER SISTER BETSY CLARK CASTLE my mother was diagnosed with early-onset dementia fund will support leadership development for sisters about 10 years ago and in her chapter, keeping her legacy alive. currently lives in an assisted living facility. Through the process of establishing this fund, I've Around the same time as connected with some of my mother's chapter sisters. my mother's diagnosis, my One sister was kind enough to find her yearbooks father passed away from and send highlights of my mom's leadership and cancer. KAY'S SENIOR PHOTO extracurricular activities during her time at The University of Texas. This was particularly special as I owe my mom everything. She was a homeroom helper, it was new information to me and unfortunately PTA representative, Cub Scout den mother, field trip couldn't be passed on directly from my mother to me chaperone, sports practice chauffeur. the list goes on. because of her dementia. I cherished this greatly, and it When | attended the Naval Academy and served in Iraq demonstrated the powerful connections my mom had as an infantry officer in the Marines, she wrote to me with her Alpha Chi Omega sisters. nearly every day. She always had my back. I want my mother to be remembered for the strong Giving to her community and giving to Alpha Chi woman that she is and for future sisters just like her Omega were important to my mother - and she to have the experience and opportunities to grow as gave much of her time as a collegian volunteering leaders and changemakers. I miss my mother daily and leading within her chapter. My mother served as and could not imagine my life without her. chapter president from 1965-66 and considered it a great honor to be elected by her sisters. Knox currently lives in Houston, Texas with his wife and two little boys, Dillon (5) and Rowan (1). You can In honor of my mother, I've started the Alpha Phi give to the Alpha Phi Chapter Education Fund in Chapter Education Fund in Honor of Kay Webb Honor of Kay Webb Nunnally at give.alphachiomega. Nunnally with the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation. This org/AlphaPhi. 34 ALPHA CHI OMEGA I Hope You Dance BY LYNNE ALLENSPACH, JULIE DAVIS AND JOYCE ST. CLAIR (ALPHA MU, INDIANA UNIVERSITY) lively, adventurous and loyal - three words used L to describe Suzy Ball Gunter (Alpha Mu, Indiana University) by dear friends Lynne Allenspach, Julie Davis and Joyce St, Clair. We met Suzy during our collegiate years at Indiana University (IU) and share fond memories of bonding during late night practices for IU Sing, a campus philanthropy event. Suzy was an IU cheerleader and the life of the party. Her smile, positive attitude and outgoing personality would lighten up and energize Chi Omena every room she walked into. After college, the four of us stayed connected organizing reunions, homecomings and family get-togethers. Suzy was instrumental in reconnecting the group. One SUZY AND HER SISTERS AT AN ALPHA MU CHAPTER memory that stands out was at the lake when Suzy REUNION did a running flip, intending to land on the bed. Her momentum propelled her forward, but in true Suzy because she was such an "If you get a choice to sit it out fashion, she stuck the landing, earning a perfect 10. It or dance, | hope you dance" girl. Suzy always danced, was SO spontaneous. We were SO surprised and in awe and it was such a reminder to all of us to choose to live and talk about it to this day. life to its fullest! In 2013, Suzy tragically lost her life at the hands of her Suzy is survived by her daughters, Kristen and Hayley, husband. To remember Suzy's life, we started the Suzy both Alpha Chi Omegas from the Alpha Mu chapter. Ball Gunter Memorial Fund benefiting Let's Talk Love, We want Suzy to be remembered not only for her an Alpha Chi Omega program designed to educate friendship, hearty laugh and spunky personality, but members on dating violence, sexual assault and also as a successful businesswoman who raised two healthy relationships. The hope for this fund is to help beautiful, strong and brave daughters. She was a real, raise awareness of domestic violence and ensure our strong woman that we all admired. We remember Alpha Chi sisters know how to be safe and get help if her for her love of life, her support of women and her needed. deep commitment to her friends and family. Suzy lived life large There's no better legacy than giving back in her and truly made life honor. Through this fund, Suzy's life will not be SO much fun! At her defined by a single act, but instead be remembered funeral, we handed out as being a catalyst for change. WWSD (What would Suzy do?) bracelets You can give to the Suzy Ball Gunter Memorial Fund at give.alphachiomega.org/AlphaMu. SUZY AS AN IU CHEERLEADER THE LYRE 35 FOUNDATION Campaign Recognition Thank you to the generous sisters, friends and chapters that have supported the Common Bond. Uncommon Impact. campaign SO far. Our campaign honor rolls recognize members and chapters who have made gifts from August 1, 2018 through August 16, 2022. denotes deceased) GREENCASTLE Rosemary Fairhead, Delta Rho Jessica Penland Lahey, Gamma Zeta IMPACT Mary Lynn Ferguson-McHugh, Delta Sherri Lance in honor of Kaytee Waters ($10,000 - $ (24,999) Sigma (Psi) Susan S. Fiorito, Ph.D., Beta Eta Donald Lee in honor of Melinda Lee Lauryn Coit Ackley, Gamma Nu Sylvia Miller Foster, Beta Eta (Gamma Rho) Rene" C. Adee, Gamma Rho Nancy Widmer Freeman, Alpha Beta Yvonne Lentz-Kelley, Nu Christine Turner Ashburn, Beta Eta Lisa West Garbe, Gamma Rho Jo-Ann M. Little, Gamma Sigma Alyse Lee Bailey, Psi Patty Renick Garrard, Beta Eta Thomasina Pierce Madden, Zeta Eta Mary Kacmarcik Baker, Delta Mu Anne Folrath Gerhart, Alpha Nu Fran Kinsey Maddox, lota Sigma Cindy Hoard Ballard, Zeta Rho Camilyn Martin Germann, Beta Sigma Katy Harrison Madsen, Psi Dianne Reaugh Bauman, Psi Robin Rodgers Gladstein, Psi Maree Rose Magliocchetti, Alpha Tau Sally McBride Beam*, Alpha Mu Heidi Boehm Grau, Beta Eta Yvette Martinez, Zeta Nu Donna Woods Beckman, Psi Alice Dahlquist Hackett*, Alpha Beta Suzanne Sackleh Masters, Delta Pi Diane Polin Boone, Beta Tau Lisa Hancock, Epsilon Rho Michele Norton Mattoon, Rho Marita Bowden, Beta Lambda Sylvia LeCount Harder, Alpha Upsilon Maxine Bizon Mazur, Alpha Tau Lisa Renee Brock, Beta Eta Sandra L. Harris, Beta Eta Anne Mclnnis, Delta Psi Kathy Wise Butkiewicz, Alpha Chi Michelle Nettle Hays, lota Sigma Karen Aunan Miley, Alpha Lambda Lorraine Riffle Caron, Beta Sigma Annamarie Geppert Hellebusch, Zeta April Elizabeth Millaway, Psi Susan Nunamaker Carr, Psi Omicron Sherry Wetzel Morgan, Beta Sigma Megan Castles Sittig, Delta Rho Tracey Daniels Hickey, Beta Sigma Diane Murphy, Epsilon Psi Jordan Chambers, lota Sigma Deirdre Reason Hill, Epsilon Zeta Marvy Stueber Nankovitch*, Alpha Jenny Winterstein Champlin, Psi Marie Sexton Holmes, Beta Eta Delta Tiffany Mordini Chapman, Beta Eta Robbie Kimbrel Howard, Beta Sigma Glenda Smith Neely, Beta Sigma Deborah Goldacker Chaves, Beta Eta Stefanie Weaver Jackson, Beta Eta Teresa McAffee O'Donnell, Psi Amy Ford Chinouth, lota Chi Diane Marcucci Janaros, Gamma Sigma Jan Johnson Percy, Delta Phi Suzanne Artenian Cobb, Epsilon Aimee Phipps Joanos, Beta Eta Judy Ziegler Phillips, Gamma Lambda Barb Jones Coussement*, Alpha lota Amy Carrigan Katz, Beta Sigma Barbara Baker Pierce*, Lambda Laisha Morales Daley, Beta Eta Michael C. Keenan Janet Romberg Pollack, Nu Judith Greig Danziger, Beta Epsilon Christine Kelley, Psi Lisa Pollina, Gamma Xi Lillian Davis*, Alpha Phi Helene Morlock Kemp*, Alpha Sigma Sara Elizabeth Walling Pollock, Theta JoEllen Breshock Eidam, Alpha Beta Jane Francis Kenney, Psi Upsilon Virginia Bentley Ellis, Beta Sigma Stephanie Marie King, Theta Tau Tammy Aikman Powell, Psi Beverly Green Ellis, Psi Amanda King, Zeta Nu Ernie Hon Pyle*, Gamma Delta Abby Moore Elmore, Beta Sigma Gay Elder Kirby, Psi Janet Hickox Radford* Chi Linda Kabrich Evans, Beta Eta Flo Ott Kirschbaum*, Gamma Bridget Guernsey Riordan, Gamma Mu Rita Poetter Evans, Beta Sigma Donna McGrath Klinge, Epsilon Kappa Linda Robinson, Beta Sigma 36 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Gloria Ann Bohler Rogers, Beta Eta Alpha Omicron, The Ohio State Jennifer Rose Daurora, Delta Stanley & Karen Rose University Julie Richards Davis, Alpha Mu Erin Schmidt-Bley, Psi Beta Delta, College of William & Mary Kitty Cannon deKieffer, Epsilon Kappa Judy Kuergeleis Schmuck, Delta Chi Beta Epsilon, Michigan State University Siobhan Gilleran Dixon, Psi Margi Richey Shostedt, Alpha Lambda Beta Pi, Washington College Polly Kubesch Dobbs, Gamma Mu Sheri Shoup, Alpha Phi Beta Phi, Bowling Green State Barbara Green Durrett, Psi Mari-jean Oswald Siehl, Alpha Omicron University JoAnn Bargiel Eisenberg, lota Ann Luer Skipper, Beta Eta Beta Omega, The University of Toledo Diane Ellis Erdman, Kappa Marlene Whitehead Small, Epsilon Gamma Epsilon, Oklahoma State Kaye L. Evleth, Delta Psi Lambda University Jan Cardene Faulkner, Beta Eta Susan Schmedinghoff Smith, Gamma Gamma Zeta, Kansas State University Allison J. Foster, Gamma Chi Sigma Gamma Chi, Stetson University Lorna Stoakes Fox, Alpha Lambda Susan Brookshire Smith, Psi Delta Epsilon, Southeast Missouri State Katie Lampinen Gaffin, Delta Zeta Barb Stabno in honor of Macey and University Cassie Gerhardt, Alpha Pi Nicolette Stabno (lota Sigma) Epsilon Zeta, Auburn University Marilyn Smith Grace, Psi Darlene Gates Stevenson, Gamma Epsilon Nu, Boise State University Nancy Irish Harman, Gamma Rho Delta Epsilon Omicron, Indiana State University Julia Kaps Harris, Delta Rho Bradley Stolshek in memory of Dee Dee Epsilon Chi, University of North Carolina Angela Costley Harris, Alpha Beta Bychak Stolshek at Chapel Hill Marsha Harris Haubelt, Psi Suzie McClendon Symcox, Psi Zeta Omicron, Vanderbilt University Michelle Mattox Hawes, Beta Xi Marilyn Manning Taylor, Beta Sigma Kappa Omicron, High Point University Karin Swisher Hotchkiss, Beta Eta Jane Elizabeth Thessin, Beta Theta Kappa Pi, University of North Carolina Janis Rose Hurter, Zeta Omicron Chere Vinson in honor of Taylor Vinson Wilmington Carol Edmundson Hutcheson*, Epsilon (lota Sigma) Kappa Phi, Loyola Marymount University Zeta Lindsay Ferrell Vise, Omicron lota Xi, University of California, Riverside Sharon Albert Lease, Gamma Tau Nancy Spanich Waiss, Omega Shirley Smith LeForge, Delta Theta Sara Williams Walker, Beta Sigma Alumnae Chapter Holly Dorsey Meidl, Beta Sigma Betty Beard Wall, Psi Alpha Gamma Alpha, Atlanta, GA Leslie Luecke Moss, Gamma Rho Rusty Wallis in honor of Jessica Wallis Kim Wood Phillips, Alpha Beta (Psi) SCARLET IMPACT Linda Wisner Sanford, Beta Eta Kyle L. Weir in memory of Karen Weir ($25,000 - Kristine Ludwig Scoon, Kappa (Omega) Jane Grabowski Seifert, Gamma Omega Mary Seybold Welch, Alpha Beta Judy Evans Anderson, Alpha Lambda Leslie Smith Sinyard, Beta Sigma Suzanne Bransom Wester, Beta Eta Jari Askins, Psi Susan Campbell Squires, Beta Eta Jan Hanzel Whitlow, Alpha Nu Brittan Bailey, lota Sigma Melissa Ford Taylor, Alpha Upsilon LouAnn Pfeifer Wilcox, Alpha Nu Mita Minnett Bates, Psi Terri Smolko Valenti, Gamma lota Susan Mauger Wilcox, Beta Eta Dr. Caryn Beck-Dudley, Beta Xi Maggie Dulay Ward, Epsilon Theta Jennifer Williams in honor of Morgan Judy Barrett Benning, Epsilon Zeta Teresa Nash Warner, Psi Williams (lota Sigma) Alexandra Binder, lota Sigma Lynette Lemon Wert, Psi Lynn A. Wittenburg, Beta Eta Diane Wilson Blackwelder, Omicron Bonnie Wilson Williams, Beta Eta Corinne E. Wolffe, Zeta Eta Leslie Abramsky Block, Theta Tau Susan Johnson Wilson, Beta Lambda Linda Burnham Yawn, Beta Sigma Cathy Smith Boragno, Delta Sigma Julie Crider Wisbrock, Phi Lynn Janetzky Bower, Epsilon Kappa Eileen O'Shea Wrubel, Kappa Nu Collegiate Chapters Jenn Dunwoodie Brackett, Gamma Anonymous, Sigma Gamma Upsilon, University of Houston Sigma Epsilon, University of Southern California Mikelle Holt Brady, Alpha Collegiate Chapters Theta, University of Michigan Heather Carrio, Psi Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota Rho, University of Washington Louise Powell Cassingham, Psi Alpha Nu, University of Missouri Phi, University of Kansas Kathleen Whittemore Castro, Alpha Psi Alpha Phi, The University of Texas at Omega, Washington State University Susan Esco Chandler, Psi Austin Alpha Beta, Purdue University Elizabeth Rios Chanfrau, Beta Eta Alpha Chi, Butler University Alpha Kappa, University of Oregon Charles E. Cheever Family in honor of Beta Nu, University of Utah Alpha Mu, Indiana University Helen Cheever (lota Sigma) Gamma Theta, University of Maryland Nicole Benton Costello, Beta Eta Gamma Mu, Ball State University THE LYRE 37 FOUNDATION Gamma Nu, San Diego State University Collegiate Chapters Kandi Murphy McCasland, Psi Delta Nu, lowa State University Kappa, University of Wisconsin - Knox Nunnally, in honor of Kay Webb Delta Pi, University of Tennessee, Madison Nunnally (Alpha Phi) Knoxville Nu, University of Colorado Boulder MerLynn Harris Pitcher, Beta Xi Delta Rho, University of Arkansas Alpha Psi, UCLA Susan Seefeldt Rehorn, Zeta Pi Zeta Sigma, Missouri State University Beta Sigma, University of Georgia Mary Ann Rokovich*, Gamma Eta Zeta Tau, Villanova University Beta Psi, Louisiana Tech University Anonymous, Delta Pi Theta Lambda, Clemson University Gamma Rho, Texas Tech University Babs Sandeen, Epsilon Psi Theta Pi, University of California, Davis Delta Kappa, Sam Houston State Mereta Spitler*, Beta Epsilon lota Rho, Loyola University Chicago University Jeanne Scharnberg Staff*, Alpha Mu lota Psi, Elon University Delta Omega, University of Kentucky Sheffra Brown Stauder, Psi Kappa Mu, The University of Texas at Epsilon Kappa, California State Kaylyn Stauder, Psi Tyler University, Fullerton Joan Rossin Stephans, Alpha lota Kappa Nu, Carnegie Mellon University Epsilon Lambda, The University of Kappa Upsilon, Florida International Texas at Arlington Collegiate Chapters University Zeta Pi, Arizona State University Beta Eta, Florida State University Theta Upsilon, University of South Beta Lambda, University of Arizona Alumnae Chapter Carolina Epsilon Tau, Virginia Tech Mu Mu, Kansas City, MO Theta Psi, Columbia University Zeta Nu, Texas A&M University lota Tau, California State University San OLIVE IMPACT Marcos SYMPHONY IMPACT ($50,000 $99,999) lota Phi, Quinnipiac University ($250,000 - $499,999) Kappa Rho, University of North Carolina Shelly Stone Armstrong, Psi at Charlotte Kori Whitener Fellows, Alpha Phi Susan Arndt, Alpha Kappa Sigma, The University of Anne E. Helliwell, Gamma lota Ruth Ann Bartlett, Beta Sigma Southern Mississippi Jill Sabatino Lacy, Gamma Mu Emilie Van Hook Beagle, Upsilon Mary Pat Lambke, Beta Epsilon Lisa Griffin Bliss, Gamma Rho Alumnae Chapter Maggie Molleston, lota Sigma Jennifer Lynch Butler, Beta Eta Beta Kappa Beta, Dallas, TX Nancy Eckert Selleck, Phi Sally Ost Callahan, Alpha Lambda Tonya Lee Tatum, Beta Lambda Donna Smith Chereck, Alpha Phi GOLD IMPACT Anne Teaford-Cantor, Alpha Psi Heather L. Coleman, Delta Psi ($100,000 $249,999) Anonymous, Alpha Beta Ashlee Townsend Cribb Woliver, Epsilon Phi Julie Cain Burkhard, Beta Sigma Collegiate Chapters Whitney Staker Fenech, Beta Xi Joe Buskuhl in memory of Jayne Alpha Upsilon, The University of Alabama Pam Haymes Graham, Alpha Phi Bellmon Buskuhl (Alpha Phi) lota Lambda, Texas Christian University Kristin Himsel, Alpha Tristin Stauder Donnell, Psi Kelly Lynn Kilgour, Kappa Nu Shawn M. Donnelley, Zeta Psi THREE STRINGS Barbara Schultz Lynch, Alpha Beta Lynn Self Ford, Psi IMPACT Patricia Bates Mattingley, Beta Zeta Ellie Smith Fox, Psi ($500,000 - $999,999) Hon. Margaret Lisbeth Maxwell, Beta Patricia Franklin, Beta Lambda Lambda Marsha King Grady, Alpha Upsilon Betty Tudor Brown*, Phi Jane Hand Pefanis, Psi Denise M. Griffey, Mu Carla Henke Mattson, Alpha Nu Nancy Brockow Polimer*, Epsilon Liza Pugliese Hallsten, Alpha Omega Wendi Solinger, Alpha Psi Jensy Patterson Richards, Sigma Miekleen D. Hart, Sigma Lark Will, Delta lota Britain Dwyre Riley, Beta Eta Lynne Biggio Herndon, Alpha Upsilon Judy Hendricks Schubert, Alpha Mu Katharine Irwin*, Pi Collegiate Chapter Aggie Theresa Steiner, Beta Eta Kristin Koppen, Delta Chi lota Sigma, Southern Methodist Karen Schaffer Stewart, Beta Epsilon Suzanne Rizer Kuch, Nu in memory of University Lauren P. Turner in honor of Taylor Helen Suzanne Sayre Rizer (Gamma Turner (lota Sigma) Delta) Cheryl Maize, Delta Omicron 38 ALPHA CHI OMEGA INDUSTRY INFO NPC Meeting Updates BY LORETTA GOOD, NPC CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER T he National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) - the Event programming also included large group sessions, trade association for 26 inter/national women's- including a panel discussion with four campus only sororities, including Alpha Chi Omega - administrators about trends in higher education and hosted its Annual Conference March 31 - April 1, at The a virtual presentation from VOX Global about NPC's Galt House in Louisville, Kentucky. The event, which had marketing and public relations efforts. Attendees also been postponed from fall 2021, was followed by the 2022 met with NPC Partner Program representatives. NPC Annual Membership Meeting on April 2. NPC ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING "After several pandemic-related delays, it was truly special for NPC to host this Annual Conference and bring Following the NPC Annual Conference, the Council of representatives of our member organizations together Delegates met for the 2022 NPC Annual Membership in person for robust conversation and friendship across Meeting. Per the NPC Bylaws, the Council of Delegates badges," said NPC Chairman Cheri M. De Jong. is composed of a representative from each of the 26 NPC member organizations. NPC ANNUAL CONFERENCE The primary business objective at this meeting was the The purpose of the Annual Conference is to convene consideration of additions, changes and deletions to the NPC's member organizations for networking and NPC Bylaws, Unanimous Agreements, and College and discussion of topics of mutual interest. Cheri asked Alumnae Panhellenic policies. The delegates adopted attendees to reflect on the purpose of the meeting nearly 25 amendments to the NPC Bylaws as proposed and the Panhellenic spirit that brings the Conference by the Bylaws Review Committee. They also adopted together to work cooperatively to make a positive changes to the Values-Based Recruitment - POLICY and difference for NPC organizations and their members. eliminated the Panhellenic Officer Disassociation During Recruitment - POLICY. Both of these actions were Cheri and NPC CEO Dani Weatherford, JD, presented outcomes of the recent Recruitment Reform Projects the State of the Conference report on behalf of the NPC and designed to create a more authentic recruitment Board of Directors. Programming on both days also experience for potential new members and further included a significant amount of dedicated time for peer reduce barriers to sorority membership. groups - member organization inter/national presidents, executive directors and chief Panhellenic officers - to "While the Annual Membership Meeting is primarily meet together. a forum for transacting the business of the Conference, it is also a forum for the NPC Board of Directors to Taking the place of a traditional town hall, "The hear directly from the delegates, who are there as the Conference Conversation" brought attendees together voice of their member organizations," Cheri says. "This for discussion. The majority of the conversation focused year's meeting was no exception, and we appreciate the on growth in recruitment and what actionable steps continued communication and collaboration during this the Conference can take SO more women join our gathering and throughout the year." organizations. More information about NPC can be found at npcwomen.org. THE LYRE 39 ON CAMPUS Understanding the Collegiate Experience THROUGH THE ALPHA C :H SISTERHOOD SURVEY BY AMY COLVIN MUSTAFA, SENIOR DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION AND ENGAGEMENT (BETA PHI, BOWLING GREEN STATE UNIVERSITY) AND EMILY ROSE JACOBSEN, DIRECTOR OF HARM REDUCTION (IOTA CHI, MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY) Questions within the survey on Alpha Chi Omega T he Alpha Chi Sisterhood Survey, launched in spring 2022, is designed to collect insights and member development outcomes, such as confidence, self- experiences from collegiate members to further awareness, leadership ability and sense of responsibility understand the impact of the Real. Strong. Women. for others, demonstrate the growth and development Experience on our sisterhood. The survey focuses on members have in the Real. Strong. Women. Experience. measuring Alpha Chi Omega member development Results from the questions on health and safety topics, outcomes, health and wellness areas, and the sisterhood including social culture, sexual assault attitudes, alcohol experience. use and hazing attitudes, will be utilized to support health and wellness initiatives and education in areas Partnering with Dyad Strategies, a team of higher such as rotational programs and trainings in The Heights education professionals who help universities and Learning Center. Demographic questions will help organizations gather meaningful data through their gain further insights into Alpha Chi Omega members, expertise with research, the Fraternity has made and questions about openness to diversity and sense of a four-year commitment to annually collect data inclusion will help inform Alpha Chi Omega's goal to from collegiate members. With their partners, Dyad provide a more inclusive experience for all members. Strategies works to elevate the fraternity and sorority experience and has national data sets of fraternity and Lastly, survey questions are designed to help sorority members' experience for Alpha Chi Omega conceptualize the strengths of sisterhood, known as to benchmark against other National Panhellenic the five sisterhood schemas. Dyad Strategies found that Conference sororities. when asking members to describe what sisterhood is, no two answers will be the same, but all answers can be The Alpha Chi Sisterhood Survey will help Alpha Chi linked back to the five schemas, which are shared social Omega advance the Real. Strong. Women. Experience experiences, support and encouragement, belonging, both nationally and locally using data and members' accountability and common purpose. Including these experiences to drive additional support and key areas of sisterhood in the survey supports the overall programming. Gaining further insight into each experience, engagement and retention of members. collegiate chapter's unique experience, as well as the collective collegiate experience, equips leaders, It's important to the Fraternity that the results of this volunteers and headquarters professional staff with survey are incorporated within the work of Alpha Chi better information to strategize and deploy resources to Omega. Customized chapter reports with the results support collegiate chapters. from this year were shared with collegiate chapter presidents and volunteers over the summer and 40 ALPHA CHI OMEGA reviewed at convention. The reports provide a data- This is just the beginning as the Real. Strong. Women. driven foundation for chapters to have discussions about Experience continues to be shaped and informed by areas of their experience members are enjoying and member input - always in support of the Fraternity's excelling in, as well as areas they can put intentional mission to cultivate impactful communities where focus on to tailor their chapter programming to best women are inspired to connect, lead, grow and serve. meet the needs and desires of their members. Additional resources were shared with collegiate chapter leaders and advisors in August. A FEW INSIGHTS FROM COMMON PURPOSE: MEMBERS BELIEVE IN SHARED GOALS AND VALUES. THEY PLACE THE CHAPTER'S THE DATA BEST INTEREST BEFORE THEIR OWN SELF-INTEREST. THE CHAPTER HAS SYNERGY FOR COLLECTIVE FIVE SISTERHOOD SCHEMAS ACTION. ALPHA CHI OMEGA AVERAGE: 4.08 MEMBERS DEFINE AND CONCEPTUALIZE SISTERHOOD 1 2 3 4 5 IN FIVE AREAS THAT CONTRIBUTE TO THE OVERALL EXPERIENCE AS A SISTER AND MEMBER OF ALPHA CHI OMEGA. ACCOUNTABILITY: MEMBERS BELIEVE ACCOUNTABILITY IS IMPORTANT AND ALL BELONGING: MEMBERS HAVE DEEP FRIENDSHIPS MEMBERS SHOULD BE HELD TO HIGH STANDARDS. WITHIN THE ORGANIZATION AND THINK OF ALPHA CHI OMEGA AVERAGE: 4.08 ALPHA CHI OMEGA AS A "HOME AWAY FROM 1 2 3 4 5 HOME." ALPHA CHI OMEGA AVERAGE: 3.93 1 2 3 4 5 DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION ALPHA CHI OMEGA IS COMMITTED TO CREATING A SUPPORT AND ENCOURAGEMENT: MEMBERS SEE MORE DIVERSE AND INCLUSIVE MEMBER EXPERIENCE. THEMSELVES AS BONDED AND COMMITTED TO MEMBERS' OPENNESS TO DIVERSITY AND PERCEPTION ONE ANOTHER AND BELIEVE THEY CAN COUNT ON OF HOW INCLUSIVE THE CHAPTER ENVIRONMENT IS THEIR SISTERS WHEN THEY NEED THEM. WERE INCLUDED AS PART OF THE SURVEY. ALPHA CHI OMEGA AVERAGE: 4.35 INCLUSIVE CHAPTER ENVIRONMENT: MEASURES 1 2 3 4 5 THE EXTENT TO WHICH MEMBERS FEEL THAT THE CHAPTER IS INCLUSIVE AND OPEN TO NEW AND SHARED SOCIAL EXPERIENCES: MEMBERS LIKE DIVERSE EXPERIENCES AND PARTNERSHIPS. EACH OTHER AND DOING FUN THINGS TOGETHER; ALPHA CHI OMEGA AVERAGE: 4.1 SOMETIMES THIS MIGHT BE MORE SURFACE-LEVEL SISTERHOOD. 1 2 3 4 5 ALPHA CHI OMEGA AVERAGE: 3.81 1 2 3 4 5 OPENNESS TO DIVERSITY: MEASURES ONE'S INTEREST IN EXPLORING DIVERSITY IN CULTURE, ETHNICITY, PERSPECTIVES, VALUES AND IDEAS. ALPHA CHI OMEGA AVERAGE: 4.22 1 2 3 4 5 THE LYRE 41 COLLEGAE CORNER Inspirational Impacts BY EMMA WILLE, MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR J ust a few days after her 17th birthday, Olivia Escalante (Epsilon Tau, Virginia Tech) faced a huge adjustment in her life: she was diagnosed with an incurable hearing impairment known as auditory processing disorder. Olivia decided to use this life change to inspire those around her and make a positive impact. Only a short time after her diagnosis, Olivia became a keynote speaker for conferences, sharing her story and encouraging others to be open about what makes them different. Soon, she says she realized this could be her calling, prompting her to create her own philanthropic effort called An Ear to Hear, bringing awareness to others who may have non-apparent disabilities. "To me, this isn't just a platform or a pretty award; this OLIVIA ESCALANTE is my entire life," Olivia says. "I have been working on bringing awareness to this." Olivia explains that non- she says, remembering the passion for her cause she apparent disabilities can include depression, autism, shared that day. After hearing her story, her sisters PTSD and hearing disorders like her own. There is welcomed her and showed her love, and those feelings a large community that has impairments like these, of acceptance didn't stop there. which is why she hopes to create a supportive space for those who make up that community. This past fall Olivia served as vice president membership programming, giving her the ability to connect her While spreading her message to a wide range of mission with her sisterhood. She invited a keynote audiences, Olivia started college and looked forward speaker she had worked with previously to come in to to joining a sorority, like many of her family members. motivate and build the confidence of her fellow chapter She joined Alpha Chi Omega during the height of members. Olivia says this moment was empowering, to the pandemic, when staying connected was more have the chance to support her sisters who she knows challenging than ever. However, she says her chapter has will also make an impact in the world around them. always been close-knit, which was especially valuable when she opened up about her journey to her fellow Now going into her senior year, Olivia feels the sisters. continued support of her sisters as she runs for Virginia Tech's Homecoming Board, where she will get to spread "The first time sharing my story with my sisters was the her message of inclusivity for non-apparent disabilities most worked up I ever have been with my platform," with the campus. Before beginning her campaign, she 42 ALPHA CHI OMEGA delivered a speech to her sisters on why her platform is communities to speak about inclusivity and leave an SO important to her. impact on her audiences. "Standing up in front of my chapter sharing my Always working to inspire others, Olivia shares her advice personal story and platform, with their eyes showing for fellow sisters: "Stand up in the face of adversity. Most that they were intently listening, made it feel like it want to stand back, but I think putting yourself outside wasn't just another day at chapter for them," she says. of your own comfort zone really helps you grow." The love her sisters showed her then continues to carry her forward as she plans events and fundraising for her Olivia recognizes that she isn't alone in trying to make cause. a positive difference in the world; the Alpha Chi Omega sisterhood is full of champions of change! She says that Olivia and her team, made up of several of her Epsilon the sisters who come after her will continue to make an Tau sisters, are working together to plan an event for even bigger difference in the world than she may. the community to celebrate inclusivity. The event will have keynote speakers, activities and a fundraising Throughout her remarkable journey, Olivia has been opportunity. Olivia hopes that the event gives members able to leave an uncommon impact on her sisters, her of the community the opportunity to think about the campus and soon the world around her. joy and happiness in the world around us, regardless of differences. Along with this, she continues to highlight how important it is to include people with non-apparent disabilities, saying, "Many people think it's some small community, but for Virginia Tech, 10,000 students are officially diagnosed with a wide spread of various impairments like autism, PTSD or depression. This doesn't even include people who maybe aren't officially diagnosed." Whether it be Virginia Tech students or the Blacksburg community, Olivia hopes her platform and event will inspire others. The event will also give Olivia the opportunity to connect what she has been working on the last few years with her campus. Beyond this upcoming year, Olivia is looking forward to continuing her work for An Ear to Hear. After graduation, she hopes to travel to other campuses and "I think putting yourself outside of your own comfort zone really helps you grow." OLIVIA (SECOND FROM LEFT) WITH MEMBERS OF HER CHAPTER FAMILY THE LYRE 43 is LIFE Chapters of Our "Sistership" BY KENIS MCGOUGH DUNNE (ALPHA PSI, UCLA, AND GAMMA NU, SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY) hen you're deep in the vibrancy of college W life - new friends, new housing, new classes, new rules - it's rare to also be contemplating the distant future. I certainly wasn't overthinking my future back when I was in our Gamma Nu chapter at San Diego State University. Little did I know that nearly 50 years later, I would cherish KENIS AND CINDY IN 1978 friendships with many of my Alpha Chi Omega sisters. I had no inkling of the tenacity of the bonds we were building. Bay Club's high-end New Year's Eve party the year we graduated. And that we juggled the dinner rolls at My connection with Cindy (Marder) Small is one such midnight, SO we'd have something to remember forever. friendship formed at Alpha Chi Omega. Or as she calls it, one such "sistership." We met when I transferred from We were each other's maids of honor, though it was a UCLA (Alpha Psi) to San Diego. I was a sophomore; near miss for my big day when Cindy's first baby came Cindy was a freshman. several weeks early - she went from the hospital to the church, newborn in tow. We raised families in two As with most good friends, we were alike in many different parts of the state, Cindy in southern California ways but also quite different. We were in two different and me in northern California. Our daughters were born classes - I graduated in 1977 and Cindy in 1978. I was just weeks apart - "belly buddies" as Cindy dubbed them a transplant from Texas, while Cindy was an Orange - and they too are friends today. Like their moms, our County native. I pursued journalism and marketing, girls had their second babies a few months apart. and she earned a degree in early education. As happens with sisters, we have held each other up We both forged career paths related to our during life's inevitable trials - aging parents, loss of a respective studies. I have spent my entire career in spouse, critical illness, children who challenge. All these communication. Cindy followed her father's path to years, we have remained each other's go-to support become an elementary school teacher. Then and now, system. I am reserved and annoyingly organized while Cindy is the people person who loves to dance. We talk often, with our running joke being that when too much time has passed, we can mentally will each For all our differences, we've enjoyed decades of shared other to pick up the phone. We try to see each other at memories. Cindy gives me full credit for insisting she least twice per year - planning weekend adventures that make her bed every morning in the room we shared give us precious time together to talk, wine taste and at the house, a habit she has to this day. I recall how talk some more. And if there's live music, guess who's Cindy's dad secretly picked up the bill at the Balboa first on the dance floor? 44 ALPHA CHI OMEGA ABOUT THE BOOK MARIBEL BROOMSTICK: CURLY-HAIRED GIRLS JUST WANT TO HAVE FUN! Another thing we have in common is curly hair - light THIS IS THE STORY OF A LITTLE GIRL WITH brown waves for Cindy and tight frizzy curls for me. As A HEAD FULL OF CURLS WHO LEARNS THAT DIFFERENT IS ALSO SPECIAL. IT IS AVAILABLE a child, I learned firsthand that curly hair garners a lot ON AMAZON (EBOOK AND PAPERBACK) AND of adult attention, even as the child herself isn't loving ETSY (HARDBACK). those curls. One of my granddaughters has a massive head of curls. So, I decided to dust off a story about a curly-haired girl that I'd recited to my daughters when they were little. Maribel Broomstick I had the words but absolutely no artistic capability. Curly-haired girls just want to have fun! This was a problem readily solved. Over the years, Cindy had illustrated short stories and cartoons regularly for her classroom projects. With her adorable illustrations and my story, in early 2022, we joined forces and published the book Maribel Broomstick: Curly-haired girls just want to have fun. It's the story of a little girl with impossibly curly hair. She wants smooth, straight hair and convinces her mom to help her change her look, but along the way - thanks to her friends - she learns that being different means being special. It's a simple story with a strong message. by Kenis Dunne The Maribel project started on a whim but turned illustrations by Cindy Small out to be a true labor of shared love and fun. Just one more chapter in our long Alpha Chi Omega "sistership" AUTHOR BIO: KENIS DUNNE IS A CURLY- journey! HAIRED GRANDMOTHER OF FOUR. THE STORY OF MARIBEL WAS A NIGHTLY ROUTINE WHEN HER DAUGHTERS WERE YOUNG. SHE DECIDED TO PUT THE STORY TO PRINT WHEN HER GRANDDAUGHTERS STARTED EXHIBITING CURLS OF THEIR OWN. KENIS IS ALSO AUTHOR OF THE BOOK, THE GOOD, THE BAD, THE MOTHER-IN-LAW. ILLUSTRATOR BIO: CINDY SMALL IS A WAVY- HAIRED GRANDMOTHER OF FOUR. SHE HAS BEEN TEACHING FULL-TIME IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA FOR SOME 40 YEARS. SHE LOVES ILLUSTRATING CHILDREN'S BOOKS, WITH A FEW MORE TO COME SOON! KENIS AND CINDY IN 2021 THE LYRE 45 CAREER OUTLOOK Want to Start a Business? BY LAUREN FILIPPINI at this event were barefoot." Thus was born the idea for (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), MARKETING Pashion Footwear, a heeled shoe that fully converts to a AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER flat "that bridges the gap between style and comfort." The path for Esther Ciganda (Omega, Washington State SISTERS SHARE THEIR University) was quite different. "I never thought about ENTREPRENEURSHIP being my own boss," she says. "It was never on my radar. JOURNEYS AND ADVICE But now that's my goal." Esther is preparing to launch Euskaldun Berri Elkartea or The New Basque Speaker FOR THOSE WANTING TO Club, an online community to help English speakers TAKE THE PLUNGE! learn the Basque language. A classroom teacher, Esther had purchased a membership for an online workout I t starts with an idea - a product you think people program and realized this same format could be want or a need you think you can fill. You could be translated to those wanting to learn a language. the one to provide something to consumers that no one has ever offered before. Sounds fun, right? The daughter of immigrants from the Basque Country, Esther always felt fortunate to be able to learn the It is! But taking an idea to a full-scale business is also complex Basque language but acknowledged that most time-consuming, stressful, challenging and full of risk. people don't have access - due to finances, time and the For those who still want to dive into the world of scarcity of classes. entrepreneurship, three Alpha Chi Omega sisters want to share their experiences and lessons. So in 2019, Esther took the first steps toward launching her online business; she is hoping to soon provide not THE SPARK OF only lessons and a roadmap for independent learning, but also challenges, office hours and speaking practice. INSPIRATION "We're forming a community together and a home Haley Pavone (Epsilon Omega, Cal Poly, San Luis for us to speak the language, since we don't have the Obispo) knew from childhood that she wanted to be an opportunity to speak this daily if you're outside of the entrepreneur, noting that her teachers called her "bossy," Basque Country," she explains. though she preferred to think of it as "being a leader." During college, Haley declared an entrepreneurship Different paths but the same goal - to fill a need major, but she never expected to start her business in the market. That's one piece of advice that Chia- during undergrad. "You can't help when inspiration Lin Simmons (Iota Nu, University of California San strikes, and for me, it happened at my sophomore year Diego) has for sisters. "Women are very intuitive. We're Alpha Chi Omega formal," she says. problem solvers. We're going to go and solve it, if not for our own needs, but for other people as well," she Haley, like many of her sisters, had taken off her heels says. "And the question becomes, what kind of scalable to dance; however, another sister hadn't, and her stiletto business is this?" went straight through Haley's foot! "Given everything that came from it, no regrets," Haley says. "I was sitting Currently the CEO of LogicMark, Chia-Lin has an there, trying to un-impale myself, looking around, and entrepreneurial background. She founded LookyLoo, it was just a lightbulb moment that 90% of the women a technology startup that brings together social, big 46 ALPHA CHI OMEGA data and AI to help users After being "laughed out of every call" and rejected at find clothes they love. every pitch in the industry, Haley pursued this next That business also came step as well. "I realized the only way I'd be able to from identifying a need. get the industry's buy-in was to get to a functioning "I started LookyLoc prototype on my own," she says. Leveraging Cal Poly's because I was sure that I entrepreneurship program and prototyping lab, Haley was not the only one who and her team produced a wearable 3D print for a pitch could not put my outfit competition; before beginning her senior year, she had together," she explains. investors, not to mention thousands in equity-free prize And when Chia-Lin ESTHER CIGANDA money from winning competitions. researched the financial and environmental impact Investors worked for Haley, allowing her to begin selling of clothing returns, she her shoes in June 2019. Chia-Lin offers an alternative knew she had an idea to to investors: taking out a loan. "At the end of the day, run with. "It's my own entrepreneurial ventures can be really fickle," she needs plus the needs of explains. Looking at the desires of venture capitalists, the industry converging she continues, "Having investors means they want to together." see their return; oftentimes, it affects how you run your business. They're looking for a return faster than you're Great! You have your idea. capable of giving it, especially at the beginning." You think it solves a need. HALEY PAVONE Now what? The next steps in the entrepreneurial process can vary. Esther is learning about business and growing her CREATING A own skills in anticipation of her community's launch. Although she doesn't enjoy writing, she knows it's BUSINESS crucial for her business, SO she took an intensive writing "The realistic approach course and built a portfolio of long-form pieces. Now is understanding market when it comes to writing social media posts or website needs," Chia-Lin says. "I'm pages, she has a library of content to draw from. a firm believer in getting data Are there enough For Haley, one of her biggest lessons has been a little people who want what you CHIA-LIN SIMMONS more intangible. As a company founder in her 20s, want? Is this a niche market?" Haley felt imposter syndrome and didn't always trust her instincts, especially when a more experienced Chia-Lin suggests putting out surveys, asking if others businessperson gave her guidance in the other direction. have a similar problem and how they solve it. Esther "A big piece of advice is, it doesn't matter your age took a related path; after creating a few mini-courses and experience; at the end of the day, you know your about learning Basque, she interviewed her customers business better than anyone else," she explains. "And for market research, which is how she decided to create that doesn't mean you shouldn't take other opinions a community and offer a membership structure. These into consideration. But if you have a gut instinct about mini-courses also allowed her to test and tweak her something, don't ignore that. You're the one that has lessons before launching the full community. With to live with those decision and take responsibility physical products, this is called prototyping, something Nothing is more frustrating than having to tell yourself, Chia-Lin also recommends because it "makes things 'I told you so.'" more a reality and more tangible for people." THE LYRE 47 CAREER OUTLOOK Chia-Lin's advice is on the same line. As one of a very "We're not each other's enemies; we should be each small number of women of color who are CEOs of other's allies," she says. "There's too many people businesses, Chia-Lin has been the recipient of awful wanting us not to be successful in the world. I want to online comments from men. But she knows that our see, for every toxic message from a man, that we get 20 biggest critics can be ourselves. "There's going to be SO messages from women saying, 'You go, sister." many people who will knock you down," she says. "You should not be the first one to knock yourself down." These three women want to see success for their sisters. And with a network of more than 240,000 real, WHAT'S NEXT? strong women across the world, we have supporters in Alpha Chi Omega. For those who want to set off on a After your business launches, you need to sustain it and path of entrepreneurship, let Haley's last piece of advice grow it. For Haley, the timing for both these elements be the motivation you need today. couldn't have been worse. After Pashion Footwear's 2019 launch, businesses were hit by a trade war, then "Make right now the right time," Haley says. "There are the pandemic and then massive supply chain issues. But 10 million reasons why it isn't, but a true entrepreneur Haley is resilient: she was named to the Forbes 30 Under needs one reason why they should do it. Just get started. 30 - Retail & Ecommerce list for 2022, and her company Stay positive. Stay resilient. And don't take 'no' for an has seen 450% growth in the last year, helped by an answer." appearance on Shark Tank where Haley turned down an offer after not reaching agreement on the terms. Visit links.estherciganda.com/learn to explore Esther's Basque lessons and podcasts. Visit pashionfootwear.com to discover As for Chia-Lin's advice on next steps for a business Haley's convertible beels. Visit lookyloo.ai and logicmark.com after launch, she suggests hiring well. "General business to learn about a few of Chia-Lin's business roles. advice is not to hire until you need to hire, and when you do, hire people who are smarter than you." She recognizes that many entrepreneurs are great individual SKILLS FROM SORORITY contributors but struggle with delegating. She points out, "You cannot ever scale your business if you're the CHIA-LIN, WHO SERVES ON ALPHA CHI OMEGA'S bottleneck." INVESTMENT COMMITTEE, IS PASSIONATE ABOUT MAKING SURE SISTERS VALUE THE SKILLS LEARNED FROM THEIR SORORITY EXPERIENCE. "WHEN I Hiring or contracting is something Esther hopes to WANT TO HIRE YOUNG PEOPLE LEAVING COLLEGE do after launching her business. While she's been WHO HAVE LEADERSHIP SKILLS, ONE THING I handling all areas of the online platform herself, she DO IS HIRE SORORITY WOMEN," SHE SAYS. "THE hopes she can one day hand off areas like web design REALITY IS THEY RUN TINY BUSINESSES OUT OF A and marketing SO she can focus on teaching and SORORITY." community-building. "A new chapter has arrived," she YOU'VE GAINED TOOLS TO HELP IN ANY BUSINESS says of her life. "I want to retire from teaching, and this VENTURE. HERE ARE JUST A FEW: [business] can allow me to travel and be at home more." MANAGED BUDGETS Haley is dreaming big when it comes to her business. RECRUITED CANDIDATES "I really believe we are creating a new category in the PLANNED EVENTS COMMUNICATED WITH VENDORS AND fashion industry," she says. "I hope we can bring that STAKEHOLDERS new category under our brand name all over the world." EVALUATED RISK AND CREATED MITIGATION PLANS In the cutthroat and male-dominated business world, HANDLED CRISES Chia-Lin wants to see women supporting women. COLLABORATED WITH PEOPLE OF DIFFERENT OPINIONS AND IDENTITIES 48 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Women & Wisdom ALPHA CHI OMEGA'S NETWORK OF REAL, STRONG WOMEN YOUR ONE-STOP PLATFORM FOR PERSONAL GROWTH, NEWS & POSTS PROFESSIONAL ADVANCEMENT, MENTORSHIP AND COMMUNITY Your home page in Women & Wisdom Are you has a wealth of activity. Did you know your an ALUMNA looking to network with sisters within and outside of your field? News & Posts feed is a COLLEGIAN wanting support from a sister to review your resume? customized for you? a MEMBER exploring open job, internship or volunteer opportunities? Don't miss updates in anENTREPRENEUR hoping to promote your sister-owned business? groups you are part of and follow along a MANAGER seeking applicants to join your team? with posts from sisters. a SISTER looking for community or advice from real, strong women? Like, comment and tag members like on other With Women & Wisdom, you can find mentoring, events, groups, open opportunities, social media sites to member and business directories, and connections with sisters sharing your interests make connections and and experiences. show support! Consider this your challenge to If you are looking to empower and support sisters in reaching their fullest potential, while post this week. Pose a question to start a investing in your personal and professional growth, Women & Wisdom is for you! discussion, ask for help or simply introduce START CONNECTING AT WOMENANDWISDOM.ORG! yourself! NETWORK In case you missed it. WHILE YOU'RE ON THE GO! Women & Wisdom hosted the Convention Connections experience for sisters in Bellevue! Before convention, participating sisters received Download the mentor and mentee matches through our online platform. Graduway app Convention Connections During convention, sister pairs were then able to meet and connect and search in person, many of them taking advantage of our Women & Wisdom "Alpha Chi Omega" to Lounge to do SO. Future structured matching experiences will be offered access our Women & virtually. Be sure you are active on Women & Wisdom to participate! Wisdom network in the palm of your hand. Scan the QR code to Women & Wisdom download Find past SERIES recordings and more at now! SERIES WOMENANDWISDOM.ORG/RESOURCES REAL. STRONG. WOMAN. THE LEADING ROLE IN Making Change BY LAUREN FILIPPINI rom her first visit to the theatre as a (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), F child to see a dress rehearsal of The Nutcracker, Stephanie Lexis (Upsilon, MARKETING AND Millikin University) knew she wanted COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER to be involved in the arts. But in college and beyond, she found an obstacle to her dreams: her body type was preventing her from getting certain roles. As Stephanie explains, the world of performing arts rejects plus-size and other marginalized bodies for many leading roles. The impact on her and other performers didn't sit right with her, SO she created the Broadway Body Positivity Project. "It's SO important that people know they deserve to be represented, seen and heard, that their stories matter, that they are worthy of love," she says. "When we see equal representation in heroic or romantic roles, it validates that everyone is worthy of being loved and supported." PHOTO BY MATT SIMPKINS THE LYRE 51 REAL. STRONG. WOMAN. THE FIRST ACT finally had this sense of community I had been longing for, my grades drastically improved and I felt I had At that dress rehearsal of The Nutcracker, Stephanie was people who genuinely wanted me to succeed - and in captivated by art and - as she watched the director and return, I wanted to see them succeed." dancers repeat and tweak a scene to perfection - the process of creating art. "They didn't just wake up and With the confidence gained from her sisters, Stephanie go on stage," Stephanie recalls. "There was a method to graduated and continued to pursue her dream to make everything, and something could be improved." a name for herself in music and acting. But in the professional world, she faced the same challenges she She took that desire to learn and improve in performing did in college. to Millikin University. Her passion grew, and she learned what drove her to be part of the industry. In 2018, Stephanie had a watershed moment. She was thinking through what she'd need to do to book the "We go to the theatre to find deeper meaning, heroic and romantic leading lady roles she aspired to - to escape," Stephanie says. "Musical theatre and excessive exercise, restrictive dieting and more to change entertainment make the world a better place. I could her appearance. And suddenly, she realized this was a not imagine a world without any art - that would be path she was not going to stand for. such a dreary life. I love when people can relate to the characters and feel seen for two hours, and then later "I was thinking about myself as a child, and when I listen to the soundtrack and feel seen yet again." would go to a Broadway show, I would research the actors and see how they became the stars they are Unfortunately, however, Stephanie found that today," she recalls. "Some of those actors had lost a conversations about dieting and body shaming bunch of weight, and it would warp my self-esteem and surrounded her on and off the stage, and she sense of body image. And I would not want to do that experienced gatekeeping due to her body that prevented to a kid or to any aspiring performer." her from playing some of her dream roles. Stephanie shares that if it wasn't for her Upsilon chapter sisters, A plan became to form - to launch a project that would she's not sure she would have finished school. help normalize diverse body types in the performing arts. Stephanie envisioned a photoshoot in which she "I was very alone the first year and half I was in school," and other plus-size performers could dress as leading she recalls of her time before joining Alpha Chi Omega. ladies of the stage, showing the world that anyone could "My academics weren't where I wanted them to be, play these romantic or heroic roles. and I wasn't the best person I could be. After I joined, I STEPHANIE GREW IN HER PASSION FOR PERFORMING STEPHANIE (LEFT) WITH ALPHA CHI OMEGA OVER THE YEARS SISTERS IN COLLEGE 52 ALPHA CHI OMEGA THE BROADWAY BODY POSITIVITY PROJECT food @BROADWAYBOPO The more she shared her idea, the more interest grew, "There's a lot of gatekeeping, body shaming and diet and in early 2019, Stephanie launched the Broadway culture. If we could restructure those programs, it will Body Positivity Project on social media. The project better prepare students to advocate for themselves in took off, and today, her Instagram account the industry." @BroadwayBoPo has made almost 400 posts, and her TikTok account of the same name has nearly 100,000 Stephanie and her team at the Broadway Body likes on its videos. The project grew SO much that the Positivity Project have spoken at colleges and love to photoshoot got put on hold SO Stephanie could work on work with BFA/BA programs and theatre companies. other elements, like education. This year, for example, They suggest tangible steps that can make a difference she moderated a panel at BroadwayCon on the topic of for equity, such as having a registered dietician "Body Liberation on Broadway." available to advise on nourishment instead of weight loss, having a policy to prohibit talk about bodies and "It has become SO much more than I thought it could dieting, and creating a culture where even negative be," Stephanie says. "I thought it would just be a simple self-talk is not allowed. account to share a photo, but instead it has become a movement It is truly beyond what I could have Why does this work need to start in college? "Those imagined." four years are a very critical time," Stephanie asserts, looking to her own experience as an example. She THE SECOND ACT * feels lucky to have had her Alpha Chi Omega sisters to build her up in those critical years. The Broadway Body Positivity Project's mission is to make theatre equitable for actors of marginalized body "My sisters were really supportive when it came to types. Education and advocacy are two of the focus my body image issues," Stephanie says. "I remember areas. a conversation I had with one my sisters, and I was talking to her about how insecure I was about how "I think some of the greatest change needs to happen I looked. I remember her saying, 'Stephanie, you are in the college acting programs," Stephanie says. someone who has SO much to offer. I see this amazing THE LYRE 53 REAL. STRONG. WOMAN. person in front of me, and it hurts to see you be SO should demand more diverse representation," Stephanie hard on yourself. That really stuck with me for quite explains. "Write letters. Tweet to social media accounts some time." of industry leaders. You have a voice and can use it for good." Advocacy is another piece of the Broadway Body Positivity Project's efforts - both from those inside and Together, theatre industry professionals and audiences outside of the industry. are making change through the Broadway Body Positivity Project. As one example, Stephanie shares "I think it's important that if you're someone who is that she received a direct message on her account from not marginalized in the industry, you advocate for those an actor auditioning for Legally Blonde the Musical. The who are," she says, suggesting they can recommend a actor was plus-sized and got a callback for the leading fellow performer to an agency or casting director. "If role of Elle Woods. you're going to have that privilege, you have to use it for good and make this industry more equitable." "I was SO happy that this social media presence was able to inspire someone to go for their dream in spite of the And if you're not on the stage or behind the scenes, gatekeeping that happens in theatre," Stephanie says. even if you just love a night out to the theatre, you can play a part in this work. "I also think audiences STEPHANIE DRESSED AS MARY SANDERSON FROM HOCUS POCUS 54 ALPHA CHI OMEGA THE ENCORE In addition to the tangible success she's seen and the support she's received for the Broadway Body Positivity Project, Stephanie has also loved connecting with Alpha Chi Omegas through the movement. "Our sisterhood is universally beautiful and true," she says. "Our bond goes beyond our college experience." She has brought our Fraternity's values into her advocacy work; for example, holding herself accountable to personal development - continuing to grow throughout her life SO she can make an impact on the world. She explains, "Alpha Chi helped me become BROA a real, strong woman SO that I could lead this." When it comes to advice for sisters, Stephanie shares Stephanie that she wants everyone to be real and true to Lexis themselves. "Do things for yourself, your values, your she/her family and your friends; catering to the male gaze does nothing for your self-esteem and worth, and it doesn't define you," she shares. STEPHANIE MODERATING THE "BODY LIBERATION She also asks sisters to be kind to themselves on their ON BROADWAY" PANEL AT BROADWAYCON journey, even if that journey - to a career or other milestone in life - doesn't look like they planned. "Know that everyone blooms at different times," she Stephanie is enjoying her own process. She's working says. "You will bloom when you need to bloom, SO to build her career, writing music and making a name enjoy the process." for herself in the music and acting industries. And as she ascends, she promises to continue to uplift others. "Assuming I become successful in the worlds of music "Know that everyone and acting, I would use that platform to create SO much good. I would want to use my fame, my visibility, blooms at different my fortune to amplify equity in the arts," she shares. "I think it's SO important that those who have been times. You will bloom overlooked for years have their chance to shine, and if I can have a role in that and have the privilege to do when you need to that, I will." bloom, SO enjoy the process. THE LYRE 55 VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT Province Officers n each issue of The at Butler University for a I Lyre, we highlight our chapter advisor. I started volunteers. Read about co-advising in January 2017 the experiences of Elizabeth during deferred recruitment Kinder (Zeta Eta, Bradley and have not looked back. University) and Heather Jumping right into the Claybrook (Phi, University of chapter advisor role is not Kansas) as province officers for the faint of heart, but who support our collegiate there is SO much support and alumnae chapters. available from local alumnae If you're inspired to get ELIZABETH KINDER HEATHER CLAYBROOK and staff that I quickly felt involved, you can learn more about province officers comfortable. I sought the PCC role as an opportunity to in the sidebar! broaden my Alpha Chi Omega alumna experience and give back in a greater way. WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR ROLE AS A PROVINCE OFFICER? Heather: I noticed a need with my collegiate chapter about five years after I graduated, and the current Elizabeth: I am the province collegiate chair (PCC) advisors were ready to step down. As is often the case, supporting our seven Indiana chapters. In this role I an opportunity presented itself, and I was fortunate to recruit, train and support our chapter advisors as they be available to use my time and talents. At the time, I support collegiate officers and advisory boards. Where did not realize how much volunteering with Alpha Chi chapter advisors are tactical, day-to-day supporters of Omega would fill my cup in a way that I was not getting their assigned chapter, the province collegiate chair is a in my professional life. strategic supporter, gaining "big picture" knowledge to lead and guide. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF SERVING AS A PROVINCE OFFICER? WHAT Heather: I am the province alumnae chair (PAC) for FEELS THE MOST CHALLENGING? North Texas. I connect and coordinate the leadership of the alumnae chapters for my area and provide support. Elizabeth: As a chapter advisor, I served a university There are certain duties and deadlines the women need similar to the one I attended. This placement lessened to complete each year, but I am also a sounding board the learning curve and meant I could draw from lived to help them if they have challenges and then determine experiences in my support. Now as a PCC, I have a solutions. The women who have stepped up as leaders for "bird's eye view" of six other styles of Alpha Chi our alumnae chapters are assets to continue supporting Omega experiences. State to private. Small to large. the Real. Strong. Women. Experience. Establishments within the last 50 years to those with over a century of history. It's a privilege to serve all HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED AS AN and see firsthand how we're all curating our own ALPHA CHI OMEGA VOLUNTEER? traditions in sisterhood through the unified Ritual and experiences provided by Alpha Chi Omega. Elizabeth: I moved to Indianapolis in 2016, and seeing how close I was to multiple collegiate chapters, I reached Heather: I'm fortunate to work with Alpha Chi alumnae out to the current PCC to see how I could help. Turns throughout Texas and make new connections. We are out my timing was perfect as there was an opening spread out geographically, SO connecting in person can be 56 ALPHA CHI OMEGA a challenge, but it also represents an opportunity to find school, I joined Alpha Chi Omega seeking belonging. other methods to connect. I think that's something we all I gained that and SO much more: a home, lifelong face in our volunteer roles - how to stay connected and friendships and leadership opportunities. I believe in maintain engagement regardless of the obstacles. the value of our Real. Strong. Women. brand and what our experience provides to women of all ages. WHY SHOULD OTHER SISTERS VOLUNTEER TO SERVE AS PROVINCE Heather: Alpha Chi Omega has helped me grow into the best version of myself. I stay involved because of OFFICERS? how much the organization has poured into me over Elizabeth: The PCC role offers the opportunity to the years. influence growth in both collegiate members and the alumnae volunteers who serve them. In this way, the PCC role is the perfect stepping stone for an alumna APPLY TO BE A PROVICE OFFICER! seeking to expand on her chapter advisor experiences and lead at a higher level. I serve in this way because I ARE YOU INTERESTED IN SUPPORTING ALPHA CHI OMEGA'S COLLEGIATE AND ALUMNAE CHAPTERS BY care about the current collegiate experience and want SERVING AS A PROVINCE ALUMNAE CHAIR (PAC) to ensure there is a bench of motivated and capable OR PROVINCE COLLEGIATE CHAIR (PCC)? WE ARE Alpha Chi Omega alumnae available to serve future CURRENTLY RECRUITING FOR THE 2023-25 TERM! generations. THE WOMEN WHO SERVE IN THESE PRESTIGIOUS NATIONAL VOLUNTEER ROLES HAVE THE Heather: We need more women to step into leadership OPPORTUNITY TO CONNECT, LEAD, GROW AND roles. Period. There are many opportunities within SERVE BY: Alpha Chi Omega to give of your time and lead with or BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS WITH MEMBERS OF without authority. DIFFERENT CHAPTERS WITHIN THE PROVINCE, AS WELL AS WITH ALPHA CHI OMEGA STAFF AND HOW DO YOU BALANCE YOUR OTHER NATIONAL VOLUNTEERS VOLUNTEER ROLE AND OTHER SERVING AS MENTORS TO SISTERS AND RESOURCES TO CHAPTERS IN THEIR PROVINCE COMPETING PRIORITIES? STRENGTHENING AND SHARING THEIR KNOWLEDGE OF OUR ORGANIZATION AND Elizabeth: I try to bring balance through diligent MEMBER EXPERIENCE planning and proactive, open communication. DEVELOPING AND ENHANCING SKILLS THAT ARE Thankfully, usually while one pot boils, the others APPLICABLE TO PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL tend to simmer, but when work, family and volunteer WORK obligations all start to heat up, I do the best I can to IMPACTING THE LIFELONG COMMITMENT OF OUR MEMBERS TO ALPHA CHI OMEGA prioritize where my attention is needed most and what can slide. ALL CANDIDATES INTERESTED IN BEING CONSIDERED FOR A PROVINCE Heather: I've learned to say, "No!" To do that, I've OFFICER POSITION MUST learned to prioritize what is important to me: my COMPLETE AN APPLICATION BY OCTOBER 31, 2022; VISIT children, Alpha Chi Omega and work. If it doesn't fall APP.SMARTERSELECT.COM/ into one of these categories, I won't take on the role. PROGRAMS/82999 OR SCAN THE QR CODE. WHAT DOES ALPHA CHI OMEGA MEAN IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS TO YOU? ABOUT SERVING AS A PROVINCE OFFICER, PLEASE EMAIL VOLUNTEER@ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG Elizabeth: Following graduation from an all-girls high ALUMNAE INITIATES SPOTLIGHT AXQ Two Paths, One Sisterhood BY LAURA KNOBEL (IOTA ALPHA, ALUMNAE INITIATES), ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF LIFETIME ENGAGEMENT t's special when a colleague at work becomes I a friend outside of work. It's rare when that colleague also becomes your sister. Sylvia "Joy" Holley, a Mississippi native, had accepted a bid from the Alpha Chi Omega chapter at Mississippi State University in 1983 but wasn't able to become a lifetime member when the chapter closed, and she then transferred to the University of Mississippi to complete her degree as a paralegal. After more than 20 years in JOY HOLLEY MOLLY THOME the banking and finance industries, she returned to Mississippi State to work and never looked back. She this chapter on campus, but also become a member shares, "I have been at MSU for 16 years and absolutely myself!" love working around the young people." Joy agrees. "When the reestablishment process began Meanwhile, Molly Thome was growing up in Wisconsin at MSU, I knew I wanted to get involved to see this and then pursuing her master's degree in higher chapter thrive and succeed," she says. "I also have a deep, education administration at Texas Tech University. "It personal passion for the domestic violence awareness was during my time at Texas Tech University that I philanthropy, which motivated me to really jump in." learned SO much about Greek life and all that it has to offer to members of the chapters, but also to all the While simultaneously supporting the establishment people that the chapters are impacting through their and learning the ropes as future advisors, Joy and Molly philanthropic efforts." took part in an application, interview and education process through the National Alumna Initiate Program After graduating, Molly found her place working in (NAIP), which extends our membership experience to residence life at Mississippi State, where her department real, strong women in our communities who did not collaborated with Joy's. Both women learned of the join Alpha Chi Omega as collegians. opportunity to support the reestablishment of the Epsilon Upsilon chapter on campus. They didn't For Joy, joining Alpha Chi through NAIP was a return hesitate to step up. to her roots. "It was SO fulfilling to be able to connect with other sisters who helped me complete my circle to "From conversation number one with [new chapter be a full member of Alpha Chi Omega," she shares. development specialist] Kristin Donnell (Alpha Nu, University of Missouri), I knew that this was something For Molly, NAIP was her first experience as a new I wanted to help with," Molly recalls. "I did not expect member, and she thoroughly enjoyed it. "I had such a Kristin to tell me about the [National Alumna Initiate positive experience! Patty, Paula and Monika are the best Program] process and that I could become a member as they provided an amazing perspective to what can be myself. I was SO excited for this opportunity to not only accomplished through being a sister within Alpha Chi," work with and advise the women working to establish she says, referring to the three NAIP panel members who 58 ALPHA CHI OMEGA AXQ AXQ AXQ AXQ AXQ Now that these colleagues are sisters, they get to work together in a new capacity: as advisors to the newly reestablished Epsilon Upsilon chapter. Says Joy, "This role has been SO rewarding. [I get] to watch these young ladies bring this chapter back to life. It has also given me the opportunity to meet some wonderful new sisters and to reconnect with some of my sisters from the 1983-84 school year." Molly has since relocated to New York for work, but she will remain on as a virtual advisor to Epsilon Upsilon. "I have been able to get involved a couple of different ways as an alumna member. Beyond this, I have had the amazing opportunity to identify other strong women around me that would make such an impact within this organization MOLLY (LEFT) AND JOY AT EPSILON UPSILON'S FALL 2021 and recommend them to the NAIP process!" BID DAY Although they are no longer work colleagues, thanks to stewarded her through the process - Patty Garrard (Beta Alpha Chi Omega, the distance between Molly and Joy Eta, Florida State University), Paula Barnes (Delta Rho, won't change their lifelong connection as friends and University of Arkansas) and Monika Salita (Iota Alpha, sisters. For that reason, both recommend any woman Alumnae Initiates). considering alumna initiation to apply. "Through the education sessions, the three of them Joy states, "I would highly encourage anyone interested were able to paint a picture through storytelling of in {NAIP] to follow through with the process, as it will their experiences, while allowing me to form my own provide you with some great new friends and sisters, experiences," Molly adds. but also gives you such a special feeling that goes along with the Fraternity and all it stands for." Both Joy and Molly were initiated into the Iota Alpha (Alumnae Initiates) chapter of Alpha Chi Omega Adds Molly, "It is SO impactful to be a part of a strong group shortly before the Epsilon Upsilon establishment in of women who truly value making a difference [to] those 2021, Molly in person and Joy virtually. Each experience around them and standing up for what they believe in." was special in its own way. "I was truly emotional, as SO many parts of the DO YOU HAVE A FRIEND, ceremony are touching we are all experiencing life in FAMILY MEMBER OR varying ways that allow the words to reflect differently," WOMAN IN YOUR Molly recalls of her feelings while participating in the COMMUNITY WHO YOU THINK WOULD MAKE ceremony. "[Afterwards] I felt like I truly understood A GREAT ALPHA CHI what it meant to be a sister within Alpha Chi Omega, OMEGA? LEARN MORE and nothing can change that moving forward." AND SPONSOR HER FOR MEMBERSHIP THROUGH THE NATIONAL ALUMNA INITIATE PROGRAM! "I was nervous waiting for the program to begin," shares VISIT ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG AND SELECT Joy of her virtual initiation experience. "During the MEMBER EXPERIENCE > HOW TO JOIN > ceremony, it was SO peaceful and serene; once over, I felt POTENTIAL ALUMNAE MEMBERS. YOU CAN complete." ALSO SCAN THE QR CODE TO ACCESS THE SPONSORSHIP FORM! 2022-23 Enterprise Boards FRATERNITY FOUNDATION NATIONAL COUNCIL BOARD OF TRUSTEES LYNNE BIGGIO JARI ASKINS DR. KORI DIANE POLIN JENNY HERNDON WHITENER BOONE WINTERSTEIN (Psi, The University of FELLOWS CHAMPLIN (Alpha Upsilon, The Oklahoma) (Beta Tau, University of Alabama) (Alpha Phi, The University of Miami University) (Psi, The University of NATIONAL VICE Texas at Austin) Oklahoma) NATIONAL PRESIDENT PRESIDENT TRUSTEE CHAIR TRUSTEE KELLI RODRIGUEZ DR. CASSIE ANNAMARIE MAREE TONYA TATUM CURRIE GERHARDT GEPPERT MAGLIOCCHETTI HELLEBUSCH (Beta Lambda, (Theta Pi, University of (Alpha Pi, University of North (Alpha Tau, University University of Arizona) California, Davis) Dakota) (Zeta Omicron, Vanderbilt of New Hampshire) SECRETARY University) NATIONAL VICE NATIONAL VICE TRUSTEE PRESIDENT PRESIDENT TRUSTEE ALSO SERVING ON THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES FROM THE NATIONAL COUNCIL ARE LESLIE ABRAMSKY BLOCK, DR. CASSIE JILL SABATINO LESLIE ABRAMSKY ANNE TEAFORD- GERHARDT AND LYNNE LACY BLOCK CANTOR BIGGIO HERNDON. (Gamma Mu, Ball State (Theta Tau, Rutgers (Alpha Psi, UCLA) University) University) TREASURER NATIONAL VICE SECRETARY PRESIDENT 60 ALPHA CHI OMEGA lpha Chi Omega Alpha Chi Omega Alpha Chi Omega MEET THE WOMEN WHO ARE SERVING THIS YEAR ON THE FOUR ALPHA CH OMEGA NATIONAL BOARDS. NATIONAL HOUSING CORPORATION PEARL STONE PARTNERS, LLC BOARD OF DIRECTORS BOARD OF MANAGERS DONNA MCGRATH LINDSAY HICKS JANIS ROSE MELISSA FORD BONNIE BROOKS KLINGE HURTER TAYLOR (Alpha Chi, Butler (Alpha Psi, UCLA) (Epsilon Kappa, California University) (Zeta Omicron, Vanderbilt (Alpha Upsilon, The State University, Fullerton) University) MANAGER University of (Alabama) DIRECTOR PRESIDENT DIRECTOR CHAIR ANNA CLOVIS BROOKE OLIVER NANCY SPANICH KRISTIN KOPPEN DIANE DAVIS RITCHIE SMITH WAISS MURPHY (Delta Chi, William Woods (Phi, University of Kansas) (Alpha Chi, Butler University) (Omega, Washington State University) (Epsilon Psi, University of University) California, Irvine) DIRECTOR DIRECTOR MANAGER SECRETARY/ SECRETARY/ TREASURER TREASURER ALSO SERVING ON THE ALSO SERVING BOARD OF DIRECTORS ON THE BOARD FROM THE NATIONAL OF MANAGERS COUNCIL IS JILL SABATINO FROM THE LACY. NATIONAL LAUREN SYMCOX COUNCIL VOTH IS KELLI Iota Sigma (Southern Alpha Chi Omega RODRIGUEZ Methodist University) CURRIE. MANAGER REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. THE LYRE 61 ACCOMPLISHED ALUMNA Love of the Game AN LPGA MASTER PROFESSIONAL SHARES HER UNEXPECTED JOURNEY AND HER PASSION FOR GOLF BY LAUREN FILIPPINI (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER eb Vangellow (Epsilon Iota, University of While golf can sometimes still be viewed as a "boys' D Northern Iowa) never set out to make a club," Deb has seen a positive change over her years name for herself in the LPGA. In fact, a career with the sport, particularly in the last few years because related to golf wasn't even in the cards until she found of the pandemic, since people could continue playing herself with an offer to earn a little extra cash during a and socializing safely outdoors. summer in graduate school. "It's a really exciting time for women to think about Though she played golf socially growing up and in joining clubs," she says. "I've been blown away with the the summers during college, Deb was pursuing her amount of growth over the last five years. For women Master of Science degree in educational leadership and who are brand new, they feel very welcomed into the psychology at Miami University when she got to talking game because there are others learning to play." with the staff of Golf Digest Schools, who were on campus to use the facilities. They offered her a summer For anyone interested in trying the sport, Deb job, and her whole life changed. recommends looking for group instruction; not only does this come at a lower cost (often with equipment "It's been a great career," Deb says now after decades included), but it also naturally provides a group - working in golf. "I never would have believed it." "golfing buddies," as Deb calls them - when you're ready to take your skills to the course. From that summer job, Deb has risen through the golf world, working as a Division I collegiate golf As an instructor, Deb believes in "teaching the whole coach, as an instructor and in numerous roles in the game to the whole person." Her goal is to give people Ladies Professional Golf Association, most notably as the skills to enjoy the game SO they can take the sport its national president. She was also the 2012 LPGA wherever they want to. National Teacher of the Year and the 2021 LPGA Ellen Griffin Rolex Award recipient. But no matter her "I want to get them out on the golf course with the position or accolade, Deb's love of the game has been understanding that they don't have to score a certain the priority. score or be some kind of superstar player," she says. "If they learn the skills and keep a pretty good pace, they'll "It is just a fantastic game, and it's a game for really enjoy playing. And depending on where it takes everybody," she says. "Everybody has different goals, them, they can change their goals. But it's A-OK to just and I have all kinds of students. Some want to make enjoy the whole experience." sure their skillset is good SO they can enjoy playing out on the golf course. Some people want to have their Enjoyment is Deb's goal for herself too. After decades numbers drop SO they can be competitors around the with multiple roles and never-ending responsibilities in state and country." her professional life and volunteering with the LPGA, 62 ALPHA CHI OMEGA LPGA Foundation and many other organizations, Deb has stepped back to focus on teaching full- time. "I loved every minute of it, but I had a little bit too much on my plate," she explains. Now focused on DEB VANGELLOW teaching golf, she says, "I think I'm going to do this for awhile." As an LPGA Master Professional, Deb's instruction in Texas is sought by players of all skill levels - men included! "I would have never guessed I'd be an LPGA professional, but the opportunity presented itself," "It was just absolutely she says in reflecting on the way her life has unfolded. Another such opportunity was sorority membership, an rewarding. I didn't know experience Deb didn't think she could have for her first couple years of college as a student-athlete in soccer and I could have that track and as a resident assistant. experience, and I'm SO glad But with another RA sharing her love of Alpha Chi Omega, as well as friends in the organization and the I did it, especially with opportunity to join outside of the primary recruitment Alpha Chi." process, Deb decided to give it a try. "It was just absolutely rewarding," Deb recalls. "I didn't know I could have that experience, and I'm SO glad I did it, especially with Alpha Chi." Learn more about Deb's career at debvangellowgolf.com. THE LYRE 63 THEN AND NOW AXQ Merchandise 1970s I n 1979, the Fraternity launched Have you ever thought a merchandise program about what Alpha Chi featuring illustrations of items Omega was doing 10, available for pre-order. "Getting Alpha Chi 20, 50 years ago? How the look" was rather low tech! & Gift Classics have things changed for Promotion of the merchandise was A our members and our limited to ads in The Lyre magazine. D organization? How have they stayed the same? The 1990s found an increasing Taken from previous number of items available that truly Lyre magazines, the showcase the styles of the times - "Then and Now" series with lots of bold colors and lettering. offers a glimpse into denotes Alpha what life was like for The 2010s introduced a partnership To Order Call Toll-Free: (800) 27-GREEK Alpha Chi Omegas between Alpha Chi Omega throughout our history. Fraternity and Affinity Consultants to manage licensing of Alpha Chi When it comes Omega's trademark use in apparel, to showing our merchandise and other materials. Alpha Chi Omega pride through branded clothing, Get the décor and accessories, AXR The National Fraternity LOOK FALL 1993 LYRE we've come a long chandising provide new AXO items for sale mer- that are not way. Not only have the program, need elsewhere. To start the pictured advance they will orders delivery August be on available for blank the order styles changed over al Headquarters, AXO Nation- lis. IN 46268. Indianapo- the decades, SO have the methods for buying! No longer do you need to order through a Lyre ad; instead, simply open up a web browser Get the LOOK or pull out your AXOs-show the world your colors. smartphone, and ORDER BLANK Name Amt. Enclosed before you know it, Shipping Address State your new favorite Quantity Price Size Item Total Amount sweatshirt or jewelry will be on its way! Sales Tax TOTAL AMOUNT ENCLOSED SUMMER 1979 LYRE 64 ALPHA CHI OMEGA 2020s lash forward to today, and you'll find an F extensive array of items available from hundreds of licensed vendors promoted in the magazine, email advertisements, social media posts, in-person events and websites. If you haven't visited ShopAlphaChi.com we invite you to take a look at the participating vendors, including several alumnae- owned companies, by clicking the shopping cart icon on alphachiomega.org! You just might find the perfect item for yourself or a sister. Did you know Alpha Chi Omega works with companies to license chapter composites, home décor, event displays and more? Greeklicensing.com provides members with a real-time roster of more than 400 licensed vendors, searchable by location and product type. The growth of the licensing program has helped Alpha Chi Omega protect its brand and trademarks, while generating revenue from the royalties of licensed merchandise sales. alpha chi If you're a sister interested in selling merchandise bearing the Alpha Chi Omega trademarks, including alpha chi our name, lyre symbol, Real. Strong. Women., Greek letters, etc., you can learn how to become licensed. Visit the Resource Center > Marketing Tools to access great resources. It's the perfect time to visit ShopAlphaChi.com. Whether you're shopping for a new member gift, looking for an early holiday present or choosing a new PACE shirt for yourself, there's always something new to discover. Use your phone to scan the QR code and shop at ShopAlphaChi.com! THE LYRE 65 AXQ CONNECTION 400 PINK JEE GOOD%YEAR 1 3 A A A A TEXAS TEXAS TEXAS TEXAS A EXAS - 2 4 COLLEGIATE NOTES 1 EPSILON ZETA (AUBURN UNIVERSITY) 3 ZETA PI (ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY) The chapter took home awards at the Greek Sing During a sisterhood event, Zeta Pi members explored Panhellenic philanthropy event for having the best the beautiful scenery of Sedona, Arizona on a Pink Jeep choreographed dance routine, "A-Chi Carwash," and the Tour. most Panhellenic involvement. 2 EPSILON LAMBDA (THE UNIVERSITY OF 4 DELTA CHI (WILLIAM WOODS UNIVERSITY) TEXAS AT ARLINGTON) "Three months is just too long to go without one Epsilon Lambda was awarded the Top Chapter another," says Hannah Loethen, Delta Chi's vice Trophy by the university's Fraternity and Sorority Life president public relations and marketing, in sharing this Department. The chapter was selected for surpassing photo of sisters getting together during the summer. all the department's standards of excellence and completing a paneled interview. 66 ALPHA CHI OMEGA 5 1 6 2 ALUMNAE NOTES 5 ALPHA NU (UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI) 1 IOTA NU IOTA (TREASURE COAST, FLORIDA) The chapter placed first overall in the Rockin' Against Multiple Sclerosis monthlong event and first in the lip The alumnae chapter celebrated its 40th anniversary sync competition during the previous academic year. in April and shared its history, joined by three of the chapter's founding members. 6 EPSILON UPSILON (MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY) 2 GAMMA THETA GAMMA (LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA) It's all smiles for these sisters from one of Alpha Chi Omega's newest collegiate chapters. At the alumnae chapter's 70th anniversary celebration, sisters and guests enjoyed a slideshow recap of the chapter's history, stories from members, milestone ceremonies and a "Made by Hand from the Heart" silent auction that raised more than $1,600 for the Foundation. THE LYRE 67 is AXO CONNECTION 3 5 satealliance safealliance safeallian safealliance safealliance safealliance safealliance safealli saf and W safe WAL), WAI-I 4 6 3 OMICRON PHI OMICRON (ZETA PI 5 IOTA UPSILON IOTA (WILLIAMSBURG, ALUMNAE) VIRGINIA) Alumnae chapter sisters enjoyed a happy hour in Three alumnae chapter members met for lunch and Scottsdale. a discussion of one sister's appearance on Antiques Roadshow. 4 ZETA IOTA ZETA (CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA) 6 MU PHI MU (SAN FERNANDO VALLEY, CALIFORNIA) AND NU XI NU (SANTA Members and friends of the chapter participated in the CLARITA, CALIFORNIA) Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event to support Safe Alliance domestic violence shelter, raising more than $2,500. The two alumnae chapters hosted their first joint event Later that day, members also volunteered at the local at a local restaurant, enjoying an evening of friends new food bank. and old. 68 ALPHA CHI OMEGA 7 9 8 10 7 GAMMA ETA GAMMA (EUGENE, OREGON) 9 DELTA SIGMA DELTA (ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA) Six alumnae were honored for their loyalty to the Fraternity with the 50- and 60-Year Milestone Ceremony Jean Hampton Cochran (Alpha Delta, University of in May. Cincinnati, center) celebrated 75 years of membership with the women of Delta Sigma Delta alumnae chapter. 8 SIGMA SIGMA (ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI) Members of the Pi group of Sigma Sigma recognized 10 BETA CHI (WILLAMETTE UNIVERSITY) Marge Kern Fleming (Gamma, Northwestern University, ALUMNA front, second from left) for her 75 years of membership Cherie Raines Bonesteele was honored to receive her 75- during a day in the park with tea and scones. year membership pin from her daughter and daughter- in-law in May. THE LYRE 69 2/5 AXO CONNECTION 11 13 . 12 14 11 BETA ETA (FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY) 13 ALPHA MU (INDIANA UNIVERSITY) ALUMNAE ALUMNAE Three Beta Eta sisters had a fun surprise when they Six alumnae traveled to Napa, California for their found themselves on the same Celebrity cruise! Pictured annual reunion, filled with sisterhood and wine tasting. left to right are Carol Hutchinson Johnson, Lara Hyder Wyatt and Jan Cardene Faulkner. 14 OMICRON (BAKER UNIVERSITY) ALUMNA During a trip to Israel, Bonnie Kay encountered dozens 12 ALPHA CHI OMEGA WEDDING of lyres, including this one at the entry gate to the City Nearly 60 Alpha Chi Omegas from 10 chapters of David. celebrated their sister Bailey Jo Davis (Alpha Phi, The University of Texas at Austin), assistant director of collegiate growth for Alpha Chi Omega, at her wedding in April. 70 ALPHA CHI OMEGA 1 CRISANTA KNIGHT Eternity's End GEANNA CULBERTSON 2 3 ACCOLADES 1 DELTA CHI (WILLIAM WOODS UNIVERSITY) ALUMNA 3 OMICRON (BAKER UNIVERSITY) ALUMNA Kate Weaver was selected as a 2022 Woman of Influence Tammy Hawks was installed as the president of the by The Shelby Report. She is the supplier diversity Greater Kansas City Alumnae Panhellenic for the 2022- manager with Peapod Digital Labs, an Ahold Delhaize 23 term. She is an active member of the Mu Mu (Kansas USA company. City, Missouri) alumnae chapter. 2 EPSILON (UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA) ALUMNA In Geanna Culberton's finale to her nine-book fairytale series, join Cinderella's daughter and her friends as they fight for happily ever after. Crisanta Knight: Eternity's End will release on October 11. Learn more at crisantaknight.com and geannaculbertson.com. THE LYRE 71 2/5 N MEMORIAM In Memoriam Alpha Sigma (Ohio Wesleyan University) Mary Gay Halbleib Brady, 1953, May 2022 Charlotte McCommon Dunfee, 1927, April 1996 Reported to headquarters between Sally Creager Hayes, 1966, May 2022 May 1 and Fuly 31, 2022 Melda Shippey Pike, 1960, May 2022 Name, Initiation Year, Month and Year of Death Joan Weidel Voskamp, 1949, May 2019 Alpha (DePauw University) Alpha Tau (University of New Hampshire) Arline Kraft Buettin, 1946, September 2018 Charlotte Howatt Grant, 1944, July 2009 Phyllis Nelson Danielson, 1949, September 2019 Jane Barton Pratt, 1942, October 2012 Nan Collins Shively, 1958, June 2022 IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY Alpha Upsilon (The University of Alabama) Gamma (Northwestern University) OF ALL ALPHA CHI Mildred Edwards Page, 1951, June 2022 Jane Mackinlay Himes, 1958, July 2022 OMEGAS TO SEE THAT THE LYRE BADGES THEY Alpha Phi (The University of Texas at Austin) Delta (Allegheny College) WEAR ARE PROTECTED Joan Dickson Jones, 1949, February 2022 Patricia Rupert Conerby, 1959, March 2016 Martha Megahan Dickinson, 1948, April 2009 AND NEVER IN THE Janice Shofner Labar, 1958, May 2022 Doni Richardson, Wood 1954, July 2022 Margaret Bailey Mehler, 1945, June 2014 POSSESSION OF Elizabeth Randolph Scheid, 1946, April 2012 NONMEMBERS. BADGES Alpha Chi (Butler University) OF MEMBERS WHO Janice Brink Blankenhorn, 1948 May 2020 Epsilon (University of Southern California) HAVE PASSED MAY Marjorie Hovey Eger, 1954 April 2022 Judith Erdmann Lange, 1963, May 2022 BE BEQUEATHED TO Ruth Rich Slagle, 1937 October 2015 Eta (Bucknell University) ANOTHER ALPHA CHI Beta Gamma (Louisiana State University) Jane Craig Vierling, 1949, June 2022 OMEGA OR RETURNED Patricia Bruchhaus Fant, 1959, February 2022 TO HEADQUARTERS. A Theta (University of Michigan) BADGE SHOULD NEVER Beta Delta (College of William & Mary) Lisa Bartley, 1983, July 2022 BE SOLD BY ANY MEANS. Lilla Hight Nash, 1952, April 2020 Marilyn Mix Rodak, 1960, February 2022 Susan Mincks O'Brien, 1971, September 2003 Kappa (University of Wisconsin) Beta Epsilon (Michigan State University) Audrey Heimbach Brodhag, 1940, April 2015 Evelyn Roberge Good, 1942, May 2016 Patricia Haskin, 1944, January 2022 Beta Zeta (Whitman College) Mary McKenzie Mohs, 1956, May 2022 Elizabeth Koch Vestal, 1944, April 2021 Lambda (Syracuse University) Alpha Beta (Purdue University) Beta Eta (Florida State University) Annette Saunders Hockeborn, 1944, June 2009 Patricia Pfleiderer Christenson, 1943, August Gloria Persis Albritton, 1947, November 2021 2019 Mu (Simpson College) Virginia Richards McBane, 1936, June 2006 Beta Theta (Lawrence University) Mary Blair Hall, 1944, May 2022 Barbara Bear Alseth, 1950, July 2022 Alpha Delta (University of Cincinnati) Omicron (Baker University) Patricia Bursiek Merrill, 1947, February 2021 Beta Lambda (University of Arizona) Nancy Milliken Gustavson, 1956, April 2022 Ruth Evans Roth, 1951, October 2021 Barbara Moran Cain, 1955, June 2022 Pi (University of California, Berkeley) Alpha Eta (University of Mount Union) Beta Mu (Pennsylvania State University) Nancy Garrett Logan, 1947, February 2016 Maye Kuhn Barnett, 1932, January 2006 Elaine Grove Dezercio, 1941, December 2015 Mary Guerra Willmot, 1949, May 2022 Charlaine Schwab Ream, 1951, April 2015 Sigma (University of Iowa) Sharon Kay Dolan Stang, 1959, July 2022 Alpha lota (University of Vermont) Beta Nu (University of Utah) Janice Dykhuizen Mudgett, 1951, October 2021 Elaine Jack, 1947, February 2021 Phi (University of Kansas) Ann Cowan Van Doren, 1944, May 2022 Alpha Kappa (University of Oregon) Beta Xi (Utah State University) Kerstin Feist, 1969, May 2022 Dixie Gunderson Allen, 1958, April 2022 Chi (Oregon State University) Charlene Liljenquist Swan, 1952, June 2022 Marion Sundell Thompson, 1944, March 2022 Alpha Mu (Indiana University) Susan Bassett Hetherington, 1950, July 2022 Beta Omicron (Florida Southern College) Psi (The University of Oklahoma) Nancy Brooks Shroyer, 1948, October 2007 Nancy White Bullen, 1960, July 2005 Edilynn Turner Card, 1954, October 2018 Betty King Irvine, 1952, October 2010 Lee Dell Mustain, 1968, March 2022 Alpha Nu (University of Missouri) Taylor Alexandria Tillotson, 2007, July 2022 Nancy Goodman Blanchard, 1965, June 2022 Beta Rho (American University) Judith Lynne Crecelius, 1978, February 2022 Marjorie Hall Moebs, 1946, February 2017 Omega (Washington State University) Beta Phi (Bowling Green State University) Wanda Gmeiner Brendle, 1953, August 2021 Alpha Omicron (The Ohio State University) Nova Groll Greenler, 1944, May 2018 Janet Langlow Turnbull, 1947, April 2022 Janice Koziell Warner, 1964, June 2022 72 ALPHA CHI OMEGA #AXOuncommon Leading up to the Common Bond. LIZETT ROSS Beta Chi (Willamette University) Uncommon Impact. campaign launch, the Janie Mathers Taylor, 1945, June 2022 Alpha Chi Omega Foundation had help from Beta Omega (The University of Toledo) campaign influencers to tease the news! Garnet Cygnor Wince, 1957, June 2022 Sisters shared about the transformational Gamma Epsilon (Oklahoma State impact of our sisterhood and why they University) support the work of the Foundation. Marilyn Kay Corneil, 1960, May 2022 Gamma Theta (University of Maryland) Nellie Davis Bowen, 1948, March 2022 ERICA N. BROWN @HI_ERICABROWN Barbara Burch Burkhardt, 1958, May 2022 Gamma lota (University of Florida) Shirley Anne Voorhees, 1954, May 2022 I give to the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation because I want our members to continue to receive Gamma Mu (Ball State University) leadership training and access Barbara Mendenhall Campbell, 1951, to helpful programming. February 2011 #AXOuncommon Gamma Omicron (Marshall University) Ashley Ellen Strock, 2003, June 2022 Alpha Chi Omega has an Working at camp with my Alpha Chi uncommon impact on me! sister is a dream come true. Gamma Rho (Texas Tech University) It's where I met some of my Marsha Lynn Gattis, 1980, May 2022 closet friends and gained invaluable leadership skills and Carolyn Symes Selby, 1958, June 2022 experiences. #AXOuncommon Delta Epsilon (Southeast Missouri State University) Carita Bess Arnold, 1972, February 2017 MONIKA SALITA @MONIKASALITA Delta Eta (Queens College) Johnna Wilson Ayres, 1962, July 2022 #AXOUNCOMMON Delta Theta (University of Maine) Grateful for our common bond and Mary Weaver Dutch, 1972, June 2022 looking forward to making an uncommon impact! Delta Mu (University of Massachusetts) Leanne Labucki ,1984, May 2022 @alphachiomegaho Delta Nu (Iowa State University) Pam Babcock Powers, 1982, January 2020 How has AXO impacted me? It has shown me the depth of what it means to be a real, strong YVETTE MARTINEZ Delta Xi (Denison University) woman. Be #AXOuncommon. Laura Pedrick Judge, 1963, June 1998 Epsilon Zeta (Auburn University) JESSICA LAHEY Carol Watters Long, 1970, April 2022 @JESSICA.LAHEY Zeta Theta (Brown University) Nancy Lee Goodick, 1979, July 2022 Zeta Pi (Arizona State University) Ronda Lynn Massey, 1988, April 2022 Kappa Rho (University of North Carolina AXO impacted at Charlotte) giving lasted Alpha Chi Omega has an Lauren Elizabeth Winstead, 2016, June 2022 uncommon impact on me by providing continual Sending some happy Alpha Chi opportunities for personal mail to a few of my sisters development. I am perpetually today! #AXOuncommon inspired by women who are #RealStrongWomen leaders and serve others, the #LifetimeCommitment same ones call sister. FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA @AlphaChiOmegaHQ NON-PROFIT Alpha Chi Omega Fraternity ORGANIZATION U.S. Postage 5635 Castle Creek Parkway N. Dr. PAID Indianapolis, IN 46250-4304 Indianapolis, IN Permit N. 1643 alphachiomega.org Common Bond Uncommon Impact. A CAMPAIGN TO EMPOWER REAL, STRONG WOMEN foundation@alphachiomega.org 317-579-5050, ext. 290 AXOuncommon.org FAXOuncommon