The Winter Lyre 2023

Lyre THE

THE SEEKING THE HEIGHTS ISSUE

Calls for Board Service Alumnae Chapters Making a Difference

Anna Menon

AIMING FOR THE HIGHEST HEIGHTS

WINTER 2023 SPRING 2020 T H E126.

LYR E 1 2.

VOLUME ISSUE VOLUME TK. ISSUE TK.

Our Open Motto

BY SALLY CUTLER (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), HISTORIAN AND ARCHIVIST

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stablishing a motto that would unify Alpha Chi Omega sisters was noted early on as an important part of the Fraternity’s statements of value and purpose. Today, Alpha Chi Omegas of all ages find shared inspiration in the Fraternity’s open motto, “Together let us seek the heights.” But members may not know how the motto evolved early in the Fraternity’s history.

In 1887, two years after our founding, a motto committee was created. According to minutes from a May 25, 1887 meeting, the committee put forth a few suggestions for a motto, which included “Strive for the highest,” “Ye daughters of Music, come up higher” and “Musical culture, first and last.” After lengthy discussion, “Ye daughters of Music, come up higher” was chosen and placed in the Fraternity’s Constitution.

When membership in Alpha Chi Omega was expanded to allow not only music students but liberal arts students as well, it seemed prudent to reconsider the open motto in a way that would reflect the changing membership while retaining its key philosophy. According to the first history book, which was written in 1911, “As the open motto had become very dear within the Fraternity, it was considered best to retain its thought as far as possible.”

National President Alta Allen Loud (Beta, Albion College) suggested the wording “Together let us seek the heights,” which was formally adopted as the open motto at the 1910 National Convention.

FIND MORE UNTOLD STORIES ON THE ALPHA CHI OMEGA HISTORY WEBSITE. VISIT:

THE OPEN MOTTO GREETS VISITORS TO ALPHA CHI OMEGA HEADQUARTERS AS THEY WALK IN THE FRONT DOORS – AND IS THE PERFECT PL ACE FOR A PHOTO!

The open motto continues to inspire sisters of all ages. Its combination of shared effort and high aspirations strikes just the right notes. “Together,” the heart of the motto, is a powerful yet comforting word, personifying Alpha Chi Omega and our shared journey as sisters. What will you do to join with sisters to embody our open motto?

ALPHACHIOMEGA.HISTORYIT.COM

d ol t n U O #AX

W I N T E R 2 0 2 3 VOLUME 126. ISSUE 2. | THE SEEKING THE HEIGHTS ISSUE

REAL. STRONG. WOMAN.

IN THIS ISSUE 2

L E T T E R S A N D LYRES

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CO R N E R O F F IC E

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P E R S P ECT IV E S

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CO N V E N T IO N

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F O UN DAT IO N

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H O US IN G

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CO L L EGIAT E CO R N ER

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O N CA MP US

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DVAM recap, centennials, book club

Learn what it’s like to transfer schools and affiliate with a new chapter

CA R E E R O UT LO OK

Sharing your volunteer experience when job hunting

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MA KIN G A D IF F E R EN C E

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IN D US T R Y IN F O

The College Panhellenic president experience

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A LUMN A IN IT IAT E S P OT L IGH T

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ACCO MP L IS H E D A LUMN A

Christian University) – pictured here at

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A R CH IV E S

the 2022 EAA AirVenture convention – is

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in training to launch into space as part of

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B US IN E S S

48 Anna Menon (Iota Lambda, Texas

the Polaris Dawn mission.

PHOTO CREDIT FOR ABOVE AND COVER PHOTO: POL ARIS PROGRAM / JOHN KRAUS

Calls for board and NNC service

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AXΩ CO N N ECT IO N A N D IN ME MO R IAM THE LYRE

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EDITOR'S DESK

Seek the Heights

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here’s a lot to love about Alpha Chi Omega’s open motto – “Together let us seek the heights” – but one of the aspects that has always stood out to me is the use of the word “seek.” It’s an intentional choice. The members who wrote our motto didn’t say “reach,” implying that there was an end goal or a terminating point. They didn’t choose “achieve,” suggesting that there was a prize at the end of the journey.

CONTRIBUTORS HANNAHJANE ARELLANO (IOTA NU, UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SAN DIEGO) Amidst conquering cancer’s toughest battles, Hannahjane Arellano blazed through her experience at UC San Diego, radiating determination and brilliance. Now, fueled by resilience and a heart brimming with hope, she embarks on an enchanting pursuit of legal excellence, poised to weave a tale of triumph in the halls of justice.

She shares her collegiate journey on page 40.

STAFF CONTRIBUTORS MICHELLE CRITCHFIELD, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF COLLEGIATE GROWTH SALLY CUTLER, HISTORIAN AND ARCHIVIST MEGAN HATFIELD, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION AND LEADERSHIP INITIATIVES MORGAN HILL, FOUNDATION COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST L AURA KNOBEL, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF LIFETIME ENGAGEMENT ERIN PARKS, FOUNDATION OPERATIONS MANAGER KENDALL SUESS, HOUSING OPERATIONS COORDINATOR

Instead, the word “seek” inspires a constant pursuit of excellence. It tells us that our goals can shift and adapt as we keep our hearts and minds open to new possibilities.

It encourages us to explore and dream, to empower our sisters and be empowered by them, to strive for more.

EMMA WILLE, MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR

I’m grateful for this motto and the way it continues to grow with me over time as my passions and priorities change – all the while being steadfastly supported by sisters as we go through life together.

Alpha Chi Omega headquarters wants to know what YOU think of The Lyre.

Scan the QR code to answer a few brief questions and help us continue providing a magazine that encourages you to connect, lead, grow and serve!

LYRE SPOT TING LYRE READERSHIP SURVEY

Loyally, L AUREN FILIPPINI ALPHA CHI (BUTLER UNIVERSIT Y) MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER EDITOR, THE LYRE

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ALPHA CHI OMEGA

During a trip to Ephesus, Turkey in June, Carlon Berryhill Cloud (Delta Rho, University of Arkansas) took The Lyre to the Library of Celsus.

LINDSAY DUBE (GAMMA RHO, TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY) Lindsay recently graduated from Texas Tech University with dual degrees in agricultural communications and creative media industries. She’s now living in Austin, Texas while pursuing her master’s degree in advertising at The University of Texas at Austin, with the hope of eventually working in the advertising industry. Read about her unexpected adventures on page 60.

ELLE MARR (IOTA NU, UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SAN DIEGO) Elle Marr is a #1 Amazon Charts bestselling author of four thrillers. Her latest book, The Family Bones, earned a starred review from Publishers Weekly, which called it a “mesmerizing psychological thriller.” Originally from Sacramento, Elle graduated from UC San Diego before moving to France, where she earned a master’s degree from the Sorbonne University in Paris. She now lives and writes in Oregon with her family. Her next two books, The Alone Time and Your Dark Secrets, can be preordered now. Find out more at ellemarr.com or on social media, and read about her path to becoming an author on page 5.

KARLEE BROWN MOORE (RHO, UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON) A former Alpha Chi Omega chapter consultant and editor of The Lyre, Karlee has worked in the field of communications for more than 30 years. She is driven to connecting people in all aspects of her life. In her professional role, Karlee connects people with messages and helps them manage through corporate changes. Outside of work, she loves connecting with friends, neighbors and Alpha Chi Omega sisters. She shares the journey of a sister’s out-of-this-world mission on page 48.

LISA YOUNG STIERS (EPSILON OMICRON, INDIANA STATE UNIVERSITY) Lisa celebrated the 30th anniversary of her initiation this spring and delights in the lifetime of sisterhood she’s shared as an alumna member and volunteer. As a writer, she is grateful to share the stories of other member experiences in this issue of The Lyre; find them on pages 42 and 46.

National President Lynne Herndon National Vice Presidents Jari Askins Leslie Abramsky Block Cassie Gerhardt Jill Sabatino Lacy Kelli Rodriguez Chief Executive Officer Katie Lampinen Gaffin Senior Director of Education and Engagement Amy Colvin Mustafa Director of Marketing and Communications Amanda Spice Marketing and Communications Manager Lauren Filippini The Lyre is published quarterly.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Lyre 5635 Castle Creek Parkway N. Dr. Indianapolis, IN 46250-4304 Submission Deadlines Fall issue - July 1 Winter issue - October 1 Spring issue - January 1 Summer issue - April 1 317-579-5050 alphachiomega.org editor@alphachiomega.org Our Mission Through the Real. Strong. Women.® Experience, Alpha Chi Omega cultivates impactful communities where women are inspired to connect, lead, grow and serve.

Members of the Alpha Omicron Centennial Planning Committee contributed an article about the centennial event at The Ohio State University on page 9. Joan Browning Ketterman (Gamma Xi, Western Michigan University), our convention local volunteer chair, wrote about the must-see spots in Indianapolis on page 14.

THE LYRE

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CORNER OFFICE

Journeys to the Heights

BY KATIE GAFFIN (DELTA ZETA, CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY), CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

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will admit I struggled to write this quarter’s Corner Office. Not because our theme for this issue, “Seeking the Heights,” isn’t inspiring – of course it is! I struggled to find a way to encapsulate all the ways I see and experience our sisterhood living out our open motto – “Together let us seek the heights” – with a 600-word limit!

As your chief executive officer, I have the opportunity to engage with stakeholders across Alpha Chi Omega in a variety of ways. It is truly amazing to see how our leaders, volunteers, members and professional staff work together every day to advance our sisterhood. The Real. Strong. Women. Experience is dynamic, engaging and transformative, and I am fortunate to have had this experience since joining in 1989.

The bonds formed and lessons learned throughout our Alpha Chi Omega journey are carried with us long after we leave our collegiate chapter experience, guiding us as we navigate the complexities of the world. Within Alpha Chi Omega, we find more than friendship and community; we find a platform for empowerment, a

“Within Alpha Chi Omega ... we find a platform for empowerment, a network of support and a springboard for personal and professional growth.”

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network of support and a springboard for personal and professional growth. Alpha Chi Omega has been a springboard for my career, as well.

In the early 1990s I joined the headquarters staff, where I was able to grow and develop professionally for the first KATIE GAFFIN five years of my post-graduate career. I left our staff in 1997 and, believe it or not, knew that I would want to return one day and serve as CEO. (Careful what you wish for, right?) In my nearly 20 years away from our staff, I gained invaluable professional experience in business, communication and consulting – which I now apply daily in my work.

From classrooms to boardrooms, Alpha Chi Omega sisters are reaching heights in their respective fields – breaking barriers, achieving “firsts” and paving the way for future generations of women in their industries. The Real. Strong. Women. Experience plays a pivotal role in equipping our sisters with the tools they need to excel.

Our membership experience provides invaluable life skills, fostering personal growth, leadership and a sense of pride and purpose.

Beyond academia and careers, our sisters are leaders in their communities, actively engaging in making a positive impact on the world around them. Through philanthropic efforts, sisters are uplifting those in need and advocating for necessary change. Alpha Chi Omega can be part of any journey you take and is always here to meet you when you are ready.

As we celebrate the heights our sisters have reached, let us also look to the future with unwavering determination. In the spirit of seeking the heights, let us remember that our journey is not always defined by the peaks that we reach, but by the strength and resilience we demonstrate along the way.

PERSPECTIVES

A Lifelong Pursuit

BY ELLE MARR (IOTA NU, UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SAN DIEGO)

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ow did I get here? Frequently, I ask myself this question when I am stuck in the soggy middle of a rough draft that’s due to my publisher in much less time than I’d prefer. The blinking cursor could be a metronome forcing me to keep pace, or a wagging finger reminding me that I am literally making this up as I go along. When I have no clue what happens in the next chapter, I wonder: How did I write myself into this corner, when I’m the cartographer, the guide and the willing tourist who is simply pleased to be along for the ride?

The answer probably lies somewhere between blaming Netflix and its binge-worthy content, and the desire to write something great.

Ever since I was a kid, I wanted to be a writer. Scribbling nonsense in the pink diaries that used to fill my room, I would retell stories I knew well and others that catalogued my day: Today, Kitty refused to sit in my lap. I ate a bowl of Cheerios and it was yummy. Only, when I reached the veteran age of 10, I got it into my head that I couldn’t be a novelist. That actually filling a 200-page book would be too steep a climb, and not for the likes of a girl from a science-oriented household, who already knew that writing was too unstable a pursuit. (Sidenote: Firstgeneration-American guilt is real.)

So, I shelved the hopes and dreams of a child. Instead of filling up even more diaries, I won summer reading contests. Visited my local library whenever I could convince my parents to drive me, and walked out of the Scholastic Book Fair with a box piled high with new treasures. I dove into high school theatre, then shifted to more traditional lanes in college, where I formed lifelong bonds in Alpha Chi Omega. In hindsight, much of my adult life was influenced by the incredible sisterhood at Iota Nu: from meeting likeminded, ambitious leaders whose career paths mirrored my own for a time; to forming core friendships over late-night Golden Spoon frozen yogurt; to moving to France to teach English

through a program recommended by a sister – all while the desire to create continued to flicker inside me.

It was during one very snowy winter in Normandie that I attempted my first National Novel Writing ELLE MARR Month, or NaNoWriMo. Across four weeks of daily word count goals, I knocked out 50,000 words, or around 200 pages, of a story I wrote purely to keep myself entertained during heavy snowfall.

I was hooked. By the time I finished the full draft one month later, I was convinced I would get a literary agent and publisher shortly. The world needed this masterpiece! A year and many, many rejections later, I realized it didn’t – insert laughing-crying emoji – so I wrote another story.

This one explored the fraught dynamic of twin sisters and the frenzied search for the truth that one sister undertakes when her twin’s body is pulled from the Seine River in Paris. It caught the interest of a literary agent, then a publisher, then hundreds of thousands of readers when it was published in the spring of 2020. I now have four published thrillers, with two more slated for spring and summer 2024 – a fact that 10-year-old me would have never dared to believe.

The need to write something compelling, that would not only capture the reader’s attention but hold mine, has been a nonstop theme. A passion that wouldn’t quite go away, and which I didn’t ever fully dismiss. No matter where my path ahead takes me, I know I will always have my sisters in Alpha Chi Omega to build me up, to keep me grounded and, if the situation is truly dire, to be available for a late-night run for fro-yo.

THE LYRE

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AXΩ NEWS

BETA ETA (FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSIT Y) HOSTED A DONUTS FOR DVA FUNDRAISER.

BETA NU (UNIVERSIT Y OF UTAH) MEMBERS SPOKE ABOUT THEIR EFFORTS TO RAISE AWARENESS ABOUT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE FOR THEIR LOCAL NEWS STATION.

2023 DVAM in Review

BY MEGAN HATFIELD (ZETA SIGMA, MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY), ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION AND LEADERSHIP INITIATIVES

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isters across the country came together to observe Domestic Violence Awareness Month this October. Alpha Chi Omega has shown continued commitment to this altruism since its adoption in 1992. While we remain devoted to this mission year-round, October serves as a reminder of the important impact our members can make.

This October, our focus was on building healthy communities free from domestic violence. We encouraged members and campus partners across the country to consider the ways they can support their local service providers, which play an integral role in 6

ALPHA CHI OMEGA

103 CHAPTERS RAISED MORE THAN $415,000 IN TOTAL,

IN OCTOBER 2023 THROUGH THE ALPHA CHI OMEGA FOUNDATION’S COMMUNITY IMPACT PROGRAM!

our communities by providing essential services to survivors and their families, including housing, financial counseling, mental health therapy and legal assistance.

Both alumnae and collegiate chapters alike volunteered at and raised money to support their local service providers.

In addition to our chapters’ efforts, Alpha Chi Omega brought educational opportunities to our members in a variety of ways! Chapters received a new Program with Purpose, “Building Healthy Communities.” This program used the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s four-level social-ecological model to help participants explore the various factors that influence domestic violence and asked members to consider specific ways their chapters can help implement strategies, programs and events that bring engagement opportunities for further awareness and prevention.

Alpha Chi Omega was also proud to continue our partnership with One Love Foundation this year.

We hosted a webinar titled “Let’s Talk Healthy Relationships: A Conversation with One Love,” where 85 attendees learned about the 10 signs of healthy and unhealthy relationships and the importance of cultivating and maintaining healthy relationships of their own and in their community.

Thank you for your support in building healthy communities and bringing domestic violence awareness to your community this October.

SAVE THE DATE FOR HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS WEEK: FEBRUARY 12-16, 2024!

TOP: ALPHA ETA ALPHA (JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA) MEMBERS ATTENDED A BREAKFAST FUNDRAISER FOR A LOCAL SHELTER. BOTTOM: DELTA NU (IOWA STATE UNIVERSIT Y) TABLED ON CAMPUS TO SHARE INFORMATION ABOUT DVA. LEFT: IOTA OMEGA (CARTHAGE COLLEGE) SISTERS SPREAD AWARENESS DURING DVAM. THE LYRE

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A Century of Sisterhood

1923 – 2023

ALPHA OMICRON

FOUNDED

(THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY)

SEPTEMBER 14, 1923

ALPHA PI

FOUNDED

(UNIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTA)

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NOVEMBER 10, 1923

AXΩ NEWS

100 Years for Alpha Omicron

BY THE ALPHA OMICRON CENTENNIAL PLANNING COMMITTEE

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he Alpha Omicron (The Ohio State University) chapter of Alpha Chi Omega celebrated its centennial on September 14, 2023. Over the September 15-17 weekend, chapter sisters gathered at The Ohio State University to celebrate 100 years of sisterhood.

Friday night, Alpha Omicron sisters met for a social happy hour held at Ohio Brewing Company to kick off the weekend. Saturday, a tailgate lunch was hosted at the chapter house followed by a watch party to view the Buckeyes game together. Block seating was also offered at the football game.

On Sunday, the planning committee hosted a celebration brunch at the Fawcett Center, where more than 200 alumnae and collegians reminisced on chapter history, celebrated membership milestones and recognized volunteers. The program was hosted by the Centennial Planning Committee chair, Taylor Tolley Owens (Alpha Omicron ‘14), and included information regarding the state of the chapter given by current chapter president Danielle Guardino (Alpha Omicron ‘21), the state of the alumnae given by the Alpha Iota Alpha (Columbus, Ohio) alumnae chapter president Barbara Rice Barta (Alpha Omicron ‘68) and local house corporation president Jennifer Diederich Healy (Alpha Omicron ‘83), and concluded with a state of the Enterprise address given

SAVE THE DATE, ALPHA UPSILON SISTERS! While the Alpha Upsilon (The University of Alabama) chapter centennial is September 9, 2024, sisters will celebrate early May 17-18, 2024.

There will be decade reunions on Friday night with a ceremony on Saturday and band party on Saturday night. Contact Janet Crowder at jccrowder13@gmail.com or Caroline Fulmer at csfulmer@ches.ua.edu for more information.

ALPHA OMICRON SISTERS WITH THEIR CENTENNIAL PL AQUE

by National President Lynne Herndon (Alpha Upsilon, The University of Alabama). All attendees received a Cats Meow wooden replica of the current chapter house, and the chapter was presented with its centennial plaque and a new copy of its original charter to put on display.

The weekend came to a close with a dessert reception hosted by the local house corporation and Alpha Iota Alpha. Chapter history was displayed through the decades, including an original item from every year the chapter has been open and composites lining every wall.

House tours were given, cake was shared and memories flooded the room as Alpha Omicron sisters reminisced on 100 years of incredible sisterhood.

Thank you to all who have celebrated Alpha Omicron’s accomplishments over the years, to all who have donated in honor of sisterhood, and to the Centennial Planning Committee for countless hours of planning to make the weekend so special. Cheers to 100 years and 100 more!

THE LYRE

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AXΩ NEWS

Read with Sisters in 2024!

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he Alpha Chi Omega Alumnae Book Club is an online club created specifically for our literature-loving alumnae!

You can connect with alumnae all over the world about the books we’re reading. The online group hosts vibrant discussions about our books and fosters new connections between sisters. Get started by requesting to join the Facebook group “AXO Alumnae Book Club.” We are excited to share our first three books of 2024!

JANUARY 2024

FEBRUARY 2024

MARCH 2024

ROMANTIC COMEDY

BY CURTIS SITTENFELD

THE SECRET BOOK OF FLORA LEA

BY PATTI CALLAHAN HENRY

THE HOUSEMAID

BY FREIDA MCFADDEN

Sally Milz, a sketch writer for a late-night comedy show, is done with love after her fair share of heartbreaks. She can’t help but notice a phenomenon where average-looking men from the show are dating very accomplished and beautiful women, which she believes would never happen in the reverse – until Noah Brewster, a pop music star and heartthrob, is the host and musical guest of the show. Their connection is instant, but Sally can’t help but remind herself that real life isn’t a romantic comedy …

London, 1939. Hazel and her younger sister, Flora, escape to a rural village in the midst of war. There, Hazel creates tales of a place where they can let their minds wander, but when Flora disappears, Hazel is overcome with guilt. Twenty years later, Hazel has rebuilt her life in London with a new boyfriend, a classy flat and a career at a bookstore. That life is turned upside down when she receives a book about the secret, imaginary world she created for Flora. Is her beloved baby sister still alive? A novel full of twists and turns explores the powerful bonds of sisterhood and the magic of storytelling.

Working for the Winchesters is Millie’s chance to start over. She spends her days cleaning, cooking and taking care of their daughter while Nina Winchester makes messes, tells lies and treats her husband, Andrew, poorly. As Millie gets to know Andrew, she can’t help but wonder what it would be like to live Nina’s perfect life. Nina discovers Millie’s desires, and it’s too late for Millie to learn that her bedroom door only locks from the outside. Millie reassures herself that the Winchesters don’t know her true identity and all she is really capable of.

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Who Do You Know?

Our members are the best resource for helping recruit real, strong women into the Alpha Chi Omega sisterhood.

If you know a remarkable young woman who plans to participate in recruitment on her campus, our online recommendation form is the best way to let the chapter know!

MY.ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG/RECOMMEND

CONVENTION

Convention Registration Coming Soon!

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SET THE

Pace

ALPHA CHI OMEGA 2024 NATIONAL CONVENTION INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA

ave the date for Alpha Chi Omega’s 62nd National Convention and get excited to set the pace July 12-14, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Convention will be held at the JW Marriott Indianapolis, located in central downtown close to White River State Park. The hotel is the perfect place to maximize sisterhood time with attendees from across the nation and explore all that downtown Indianapolis has to offer.

to learn from education sessions focused on the role you play in Alpha Chi Omega. Part-time registration includes a la carte options, with pricing from $100 for a day of educational sessions to $175 for Carnation Celebration, plus a $50 general registration fee. (An additional fee applies after April 26.) This package is available for sisters and guests who would like to attend but need a specific registration option to accommodate their schedules.

Full-time and part-time registration options are available this year. You’ll have the opportunity to choose a path that fits your needs, whether it’s attending all activities throughout the weekend or just a select few. Full-time registration, the best value for members looking to enjoy a taste of everything that makes convention special, is $795 if registered by April 26, 2024. This package includes entrance to all meals, national chapter meetings and educational sessions.

Registration will open in February 2024. Be sure to check out the convention website at www.alphachiomega.org/convention for updates as we race toward July!

If you prefer to participate in only certain events while you’re in Indianapolis, part-time registration could be right for you! This could allow you, for example, to attend Reunion Night Dinner to celebrate individual chapters, or 21 2 AAL LP PHHAA CCHHI I OOMME EGGAA

REGISTRATION OPENS IN FEBRUARY! FULL-TIME ATTENDANCE IS $795 IF REGISTERED BY APRIL 26.

A LA CARTE OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE AT VARIOUS COSTS AND PARTICIPATION LEVELS.

Why YOU Should Attend

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very two years, Alpha Chi Omegas from all over the country gather for the national convention.

2024 will be our 62nd such event! But what actually happens at convention? What can you expect if you’ve never been?

CONNECT Alpha Chi Omega is about connection, and there’s no better place to do that than convention. Reunite with sisters you haven’t seen since college and network with sisters of all ages as you make new friends. There’s even a special event – Reunion Night Dinner – that celebrates our collegiate chapters and the bonds we share.

One past convention attendee recalled, “At my first convention, I knew like three people before I got there.

By the end of the first night, I was in the hotel bar, surrounded by the Texas contingency with 20-30 brand new sister-friends, many of whom I’m still friends with 17 years later!”

Who will you connect with in Indianapolis?

GROW Lifelong learning is key to the Alpha Chi Omega experience, and convention provides ample opportunities to grow personally, professionally and in your Alpha Chi Omega role. Education tracks are intentionally developed for each attendee group so you’re sure to learn something to take back to your volunteer position or collegiate chapter. And engaging speakers will provide relevant lessons to help you grow as a real, strong woman.

“At age 83, I didn’t think I could get this enthused and excited about an organization,” said another past convention attendee. “I am stoked to meet with my alumnae board to put some of these ideas into motion.”

How will you grow in Indianapolis?

REFRESH No matter if you’re an active collegiate member or it’s been decades since your initiation, a trip to convention is the perfect way to refresh your love for our Fraternity.

Surround yourself with the sweet sounds of Ritual recited by hundreds of sisters.

Did you know the decision to support domestic violence awareness was a convention vote? Be present for history as delegates determine elected leadership and amendments to our governing documents.

As one past attendee shared, “Alpha Chi Omega convention has reignited the fire in my heart to support and empower the young women of our sorority.

Alpha Chi Omega is a journey I want to be on forever.”

How will you refresh your Alpha Chi Omega spirit in Indianapolis?

CELEBRATE When hundreds of sisters come together for convention, we have so much to celebrate! Be there for the announcement of Alpha Chi Omega’s most prestigious awards for chapters and individuals, and recognize the dedication of our 50-, 60- and 75-year members when they receive their milestone pins. At our 2024 National Convention, we’ll celebrate the way Alpha Chi Omega has led the race, and we’ll set the pace for the future of our beloved organization.

“Kudos to my 18-year-old self that said yes to Alpha Chi on Bid Day! Little did she know how much this sorority would be such an integral part of shaping her life,” a past attendee said. “Now I go home with my star brighter and higher until we see each again and celebrate even more.”

WILL YOU

join the celebration

IN INDIANAPOLIS?

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CONVENTION

Insider’s Guide to Indy

BY JOAN BROWNING KETTERMAN (GAMMA XI, WESTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY), CONVENTION LOCAL VOLUNTEER CHAIR

W

elcome to Indianapolis, home of Alpha Chi Omega headquarters, for the 2024 National Convention. There is no better sisterhood experience than spending a weekend with your sisters from across the country. We know you’ll be busy and have lots to do throughout the weekend, but there’s also a great city you can explore while you’re here! I hope to share some suggestions on what to do.

ABOUT ME My name is Joan Browning Ketterman, and I will serve as the convention local volunteer chair. I am a graduate of Western Michigan University, our Gamma Xi chapter. Since that long ago time at our chapter house in Kalamazoo, LOCAL VOLUNTEER CHAIR I have been a volunteer JOAN BROWNING with our collegiate chapters KETTERMAN AND and local alumnae groups. I HER HUSBAND, KELLY enjoy golf and have taken up pickleball upon retirement. I am fortunate to have the opportunity to enjoy time with my eight grandchildren who live close to home! My time is also spent volunteering for the myriad sporting events hosted by Indianapolis, such as the Super Bowl, golf events and the upcoming U.S. Olympic swimming trials.

TAKE A STROLL ALONG THE CANAL WALK OR EVEN RENT A PEDAL BOAT! PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT INDY

Champions tour, the Indianapolis Zoo and White River Garden, or the Eiteljorg Museum filled with amazing Native and western art.

Interested in a walk or run? The White River State Park or the Indianapolis Cultural Trail offer a variety of distances with some interesting sights. You can also book a gondola or pedal boat ride on the canal.

THINGS TO DO While visiting our beautiful downtown, there is so much to tempt you, such as the many attractions within walking distance of the hotel.

It is hard to choose from the NCAA Hall of 144 AAL LPPHHAA CCHHI I OOMME EGGAA

WHITE RIVER STATE PARK (ABOVE), THE COUNTRY’S ONLY CULTURAL URBAN STATE PARK, IS STEPS FROM THE HOTEL, AND THE CIRCLE (RIGHT) IS MINUTES AWAY. PHOTOS COURTESY OF VISIT INDY

WE ASKED. INDY SISTERS ANSWERED. HERE ARE THEIR RECOMMENDATIONS FOR YOUR VISIT TO THE CIT Y: FAVORITE RESTAURANT AND WHAT TO ORDER: ONE OF THE MANY RESTAURANTS AND BARS FOR SISTERS TO TRY, LIVERY IS JUST OFF MASS AVE. PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT INDY

• Livery – street corn and empanadas • Eagle’s Nest (which rotates 360 degrees during your meal) – baked brie and burrata Caprese salad • Rick’s Café Boatyard – pork tenderloin sandwich • Good Morning Mama’s – buttermilk pancakes

WHERE TO MEET UP WITH SISTERS:

PLACES TO EAT

No visit is complete without sampling the variety of restaurants. A popular restaurant to book a table at (get your reservation early!) is St. Elmo’s, known for its signature shrimp cocktail. Its sister restaurant, Harry & Izzy’s, is just as delicious! Want to try the best deli in Indiana? Head to Shapiro’s. The streets of Mass Ave have so much to offer, they can’t be listed!

Another stop that sisters need to experience is the Bottleworks District – food and fun. Try your hand at duckpin bowling, pinball or the many other games after a stop at The Garage Food Hall across the street.

COME EXPLORE AND VOLUNTEER And of course, should you want to be part of the volunteer team working behind the scenes, greeting sisters or preparing tables for meals – we would certainly welcome your help.

If you’d like to volunteer during convention, please email volunteer@ alphachiomega. org to share your interest!

• Penn & Beech for candle-making • The Garage Food Hall with a stop at the Bottleworks Hotel to view the art deco designs • Monument Circle for a stroll and some history lessons • Walking on the Monon Trail or along the canal

FAVORITE MUSEUM:

• The Children’s Museum (and yes, adults can go without kids!)

• Newfields for the art museum and gardens • Indiana State Museum • NCAA Hall of Champions

BEST COFFEE: • • • • •

Café Patachou Parlor Public House Tea’s Me Cafe Coat Check Coffee Tinker Street Coffee

BEST HIDDEN GEM IN INDY:

• Slippery Noodle Inn • The Indianapolis Propylaeum to celebrate women’s voices • James Whitcomb Riley’s gravesite at Crown Hill Cemetery for a view of the city skyline • Indianapolis City Market for fresh flowers and foods from around the world

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CONVENTION

THEN AND NOW:

Indy Conventions DID YOU KNOW INDIANAPOLIS HAS HOSTED THE ALPHA CHI OMEGA NATIONAL CONVENTION TWO TIMES BEFORE THIS – IN 1985 AND 2000?

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he 1985 convention celebrated 100 years of excellence for Alpha Chi Omega. With a recordsetting number of attendees, more than 1,700 Alpha Chi Omegas and guests gathered in Indiana’s capital.

Prior to the start of convention, attendees toured the national headquarters building and the Alpha Chi chapter house at Butler University. In 2024, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the new headquarters building and the Alpha (DePauw University) chapter house as an add-on excursion.

1985’s Reunion Night included a processional of 149 banners from every chapter established (and at this year’s convention, we’ll see the addition of one new chapter banner for Lambda Pi at the University of Mississippi, for a total of 197). The colorful banners decorated the chapter room and convention center. American Olympic gymnast Bart Connor addressed Alpha Chis with an engaging talk on success with intermediate goals.

During the State of the Fraternity Address, National President D’Alice Coburn Cochran (Alpha Mu, Indiana University) noted that Alpha Chi Omega had increased the number of collegiate chapters throughout campuses and increased alumnae support across the nation. The 1985 convention was also the birthplace of the Centennial Sash Ceremony, presenting sashes to representatives of chapters celebrating 100 or more years. The ceremony is still conducted to this day, and this year eight chapters will receive this honor!

The 2000 convention brought more than 700 Alpha Chi Omegas back to Indianapolis to celebrate the theme, “Our Heritage, Our Future.” The event opened with a delegates meeting, a “Back Home Again in Indiana” dinner and a dessert reception. Alpha Chi’s State of the Fraternity

1985 NATIONAL CONVENTION PHOTO

address highlighted the new National Council structure of five national vice presidents, a structure that is still used today. The election of these leaders, among others, will take place at this year’s convention. The 2000 convention held a walk to support victims of domestic violence along the canal on the banks of the White River, and attendees listened to keynote speaker Dr. Condoleezza Rice (Gamma Delta, University of Denver). Alpha Chi Omega also showcased its updated website, which was quite exciting for the turn of the century!

Star Booth also made an appearance at the 2000 convention and raised $17,000 from sisters honoring one another with a star! This year’s Star Booth, supporting the Real. Strong. Women.

Fund, will help our current campaign, Common Bond.

Uncommon Impact., by FALL 2000 LYRE providing funding to expand and improve programs, sustain collegiate chapter success, support individual members, and continue to advocate for domestic violence awareness and prevention.

Many traditions we will see at the 2024 convention have been enjoyed for years. Whether we are joining together to vote on the business of the Fraternity, enjoying time with each other in Indianapolis, or learning how to grow and prosper as sisters, there is something for everyone.

We can’t wait to make lifelong memories again in Indianapolis at our 62nd National Convention this summer! Be on the lookout for registration opening February 2024 and start preparing for the fun!

STAR BOOTH IS BACK! The Alpha Chi Omega Foundation’s Star Booth is back for the 2024 convention! Star Booth first launched in 1988 as a way for sisters to honor one another and support current and emerging needs of our Fraternity.

Today, gifts to Star Booth support the Real. Strong.

Women. Fund, which allows Alpha Chi Omega to continue its mission of responding to the needs of our members today.

Donors can honor a sister or friend with $10 stars virtually starting July 1, or on-site during convention.

As one convention attendee shared, “It is a great feeling to see sisters walking around convention with stars on their name tags of the many sisters who have honored them.”

Over the years, Star Booth has evolved and changed, but the mission has stayed the same – honoring one another while raising critical funds for our Fraternity.

Follow Alpha Chi Omega social media and watch your email for more details about the official launch of Star Booth ahead of the 2024 National Convention!

COLLEGIATE OPPORTUNIT Y: CONVENTION PAGE!

Are you interested in joining the pit crew at convention? Serving as a convention page is a fun and exciting opportunity available exclusively to collegiate members. As a convention page, you will meet, work and network with alumnae, other collegians, staff and board members from across the country. You’ll also work behind the scenes with event and meeting preparations, help during the election process and assist with several other convention activities.

Take it from Allie Cantalupo, a previous page who said, “Being a page was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Also, going to convention for the first time and seeing what it takes to create such a successful event has inspired me to continue to go to Alpha Chi Omega conventions for years to come.”

This is a great opportunity for current officers or emerging leaders within the chapter.

If you’re interested in learning more about this opportunity or know someone who would make a great convention page, scan the QR code and fill out the form!

T THHE E L LY YRRE E 1 7

FOUNDATION

Sustaining Fraternity Programs for Real, Strong Women How Your Gifts to the Foundation Make an Uncommon Impact B Y M O R G A N H I L L ( E P S I LO N Z E TA , A U B U R N U N I V E R S I T Y ) , F O U N DAT I O N C O M M U N I C AT I O N S S P E C I A L I S T

I

n July 2022, the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation launched Common Bond. Uncommon Impact., a $25 million campaign to empower real, strong women. The campaign strives to envision a brighter future for Alpha Chi Omega by providing funding and strategic support for four main priorities: • Expanding and improving Fraternity programs • Sustaining collegiate chapter success • Supporting individual members • Continuing the fight to prevent domestic violence Thanks to generous support from campaign donors, the Common Bond. Uncommon Impact. campaign

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ALPHA CHI OMEGA

has surpassed its $25 million goal, but it is time to go even further. In September 2023, the Foundation announced a new campaign goal of $30 million, making history for Alpha Chi Omega as our largest fundraising campaign goal to date. While the goal is ambitious, the need is greater than ever before.

In this final year of the campaign, the most critical priority remains the same – expanding Foundation support for Fraternity programming.

The Foundation exists to uphold the promise of the Real. Strong. Women. Experience by underwriting the opportunities provided by the Fraternity. Keeping these opportunities relevant and transformative impacts every member, creating connection, fostering leadership and encouraging service. The Foundation’s financial support helps keep the Alpha Chi Omega experience affordable and accessible for our members.

DONORS’ GIFTS HELP KEEP THE ALPHA CHI OMEGA E X P E R I E N C E A F F O R DA B L E .

•

51% of collegiate members work while in school.

-

44% of those

work 10-19 hours a week.

-

19% of those

work 20-34 hours a week.

45%

• of collegiate members pay some or all of their dues.

The Foundation supports the Real. Strong.

Women. Experience through annual grants to the Fraternity. Each year, the Fraternity identifies costs of its educational and philanthropic activities and programs that are eligible for funding by the Foundation under IRS guidelines and submits a grant request seeking Foundation funding. In response, the Foundation evaluates its assets and available income to determine the amount that can be granted toward the Fraternity’s request.

Every year, the Fraternity’s need far outweighs the available funding, and the Foundation is unable to meet the entire Fraternity request. For the 202324 fiscal year, the Fraternity grant request totaled more than $2.2 million, out of which the Foundation was able to support $830,000. This is where our donors and the Common Bond. Uncommon Impact. campaign can make a difference for the future!

The Foundation’s ultimate goal, and the motivation behind its efforts, is to fulfill the grant request in its entirety each year. Increased grant amounts help keep member dues and fees lower, which is especially crucial in our current climate; a bachelor’s degree is more expensive than ever before, and more and more members are supporting themselves, holding multiple jobs during their time in college.

Throughout the course of the Common Bond.

Uncommon Impact. campaign, new endowments have been created that will provide annual distributions to support programs that are part of the

COLLEGIANS GAIN CONFIDENCE AND SKILLS AT LEADERSHIP ACADEMY, FUNDED IN PART BY THE FOUNDATION

E N D O W M E N T S C R E AT E D D U R I N G T H E C A M PA I G N TO SUPPORT PROGRAMMING: • Angela Costley Harris Fund for Fraternity Programs • Betty Tudor Brown Leadership Fund • Jensy Patterson Richards Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Fund • Judy Evans Anderson Leadership Fund • Katie Lampinen Gaffin Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Fund • Leadership Academy Fund in Honor of Angela Costley Harris • Marsha King Grady Leadership Fund • Mary Patricia Lambke Leadership Fund • Pamela Haymes Graham Fund for Alumnae Programming • Suzy Ball Gunter Memorial Fund benefitting Let’s Talk Love

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FOUNDATION

PROGRAMS FUNDED BY THE FOUNDATION HELP SISTERS GROW AND LEARN

Fraternity grant request. These funds help to ensure long-term stability and growth of priority programs.

The Impact Fund was also established to accept larger campaign gifts designated for programming that can be used immediately in support of the grant.

The need for programming support will not end after the campaign but will continue to grow. While these special funds are incredibly impactful, you can have the greatest impact during the campaign and beyond through annual gifts to the Real. Strong.

Women. Fund. Gifts to this unrestricted fund provide the greatest flexibility for the Foundation to support operations and programming and to keep the collegiate experience accessible and affordable.

“ T he Fraternity programs that I received as a collegiate member of Alpha Chi Omega have helped to shape the real, strong woman I am today.”

– B R O O K LY N H AY E S (GAMMA XI, WESTERN M I C H I G A N UNIVERSITY)

Your support moves Alpha Chi Omega forward, sustaining the vision created by seven women 138 years ago.

Y O U C A N M A K E A N I M PAC T F O R S I S T E R S !

• Make a gift to the Real. Strong. Women. Fund by scanning the QR code.

• Create a multi-year pledge to the Impact Fund over and above your annual gift to the Real. Strong. Women. Fund by visiting https://give.alphachiomega.org/uncommon.

• Contact the Foundation team about establishing a new endowed fund.

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ALPHA CHI OMEGA

Ensuring the Accessibility of Education B Y M O R G A N H I L L ( E P S I LO N Z E TA , A U B U R N U N I V E R S I T Y ) , F O U N DAT I O N C O M M U N I C AT I O N S S P E C I A L I S T, A N D E R I N PA R K S ( A L P H A C H I , B U T L E R U N I V E R S I T Y ) , F O U N DAT I O N O P E R AT I O N S M A N AG E R

someone can’t participate. I’m blessed to be in a position to create a fund, so I chose to establish an educational assistance fund for members from my chapter of initiation. I love watching how the grant enables our members to continue growing in Alpha Chi Omega with less financial stress.”

T

After academic assistance funds have been established, they are included in the list of grants for which collegiate and alumnae members apply through the annual application. Once the application closes, the volunteer Scholarships Committee reviews all merit-based applications while the Educational Assistance Grants Committee reviews the need-based applications.

he Individual Support priority of the Foundation’s Common Bond. Uncommon Impact. campaign seeks to help ease the financial burden that some Alpha Chi Omega members face while in school. Endowed academic assistance funds provide grants for collegiate and alumnae members to help pay for educational expenses.

This transformative difference for sisters begins with donations to the Foundation’s academic assistance funds. Gifts to create and grow these funds have a meaningful impact on individual members and help improve member retention and chapter academic success. In addition, giving to an endowed fund in honor of a sister who changed your life is a great way to make an uncommon impact.

Alma Scroggins (Alpha Upsilon, The University of Alabama) says, “Jewel Patterson Howard was chapter advisor of the Alpha Upsilon chapter at The University of Alabama when I pledged in 1967.

She was vivacious, supportive and encouraging. At that time, I didn’t realize she was just a few years older than me! Now all these years later Jewel still provides recruitment support and has for over 35 years. Supporting the Jewel Patterson Howard Scholarship Fund endowed in her honor is my way of showing appreciation for her loyalty to all our sisters.”

Donors can give to existing endowed funds or establish a new one, like Emilie Beagle (Upsilon, Millikin University) did!

“As a long-term chapter advisor, I’ve seen firsthand how the rising cost of higher education affects our members. I believe in the experience AXΩ provides collegians and don’t want finances to be the reason

Dena Norrod (Delta Zeta, Central Michigan University) serves as the chair of the Scholarships Committee and shares, “It is a joy to be able to recognize the amazing work that Alpha Chi Omega women are doing. To see the heights that these real, strong women are able to reach is a privilege, and I love being part of the team that rewards these activities with grants to help with their educational expenses.”

Alleviating the financial burden of education allows sisters to thrive in the Alpha Chi experience.

Tracy Coleman (Zeta Omicron, Vanderbilt University) served on the Educational Assistance Grants Committee for seven years, the last four as chair. She says, “Alpha Chi Omega Foundation scholarships and grants give sisters a boost, a little breathing room, so they can stay engaged and enjoy the fulfilling collegiate experience that we all had.”

Scholarships are merit-based academic grants.

Educational assistance grants are need-based academic grants.

Academic assistance grants is the collective term for all scholarships and educational assistance grants awarded by the Foundation.

Continued on next page ...

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Once the applications have been reviewed by the committees, award decisions are made. It’s no easy task, as the need is great and there are so many real, strong women pursuing academic success!

Many members work during the school year to help pay for their education, and these awards can give them more time for classwork, extracurriculars and Alpha Chi Omega.

“Being able to make an impact on students is something that, as a future educator, I am incredibly appreciative of. Students are given opportunities they wouldn’t have had otherwise,” says Hannah Davis (Alpha Nu, University of Missouri), one of this year’s recipients. “For me, this [grant] means being able to cut back on the number of hours I am working each week to focus more on academics!”

The recipients of academic assistance grants are pursuing educational dreams in countless fields and disciplines, all while developing confidence, leadership and personal growth through Alpha Chi Omega.

As recipient Katie Reynolds (Gamma Pi, University of Tampa) shares, “This honorable award will help me pursue my goals in medicine as an empowering woman in science. I am grateful for the opportunities Alpha Chi Omega has brought me thus far, and I

BY THE NUMBERS: AC A D E M I C A S S I S TA N C E

37

new academic assistance funds created during the campaign

$2,237,736

donated to scholarship and educational assistance funds during the campaign

608

donors to scholarship and educational assistance funds

am passionate about making a difference for this organization moving forward!”

Recipient Lauren Paque (Alpha, DePauw University) echoes that sentiment, saying, “Alpha Chi has been such a meaningful organization to be part of, pushing me to be my academic best while developing true sisterhood. It is an honor to be awarded this scholarship, and it inspires me to keep working hard!”

Do you want to make a difference, too?

Give now at www. alphachiomega.org/ foundation/givingopportunities/specialfunds or contact the Foundation to learn how to endow a fund.

Be part of the uncommon impact and support sisters like AnnaMaria Fernandez (Zeta Chi, Muhlenberg College), who says, “Aside from my multitudinous thanks, I know that there is no combination of words that can properly express how grateful I am to Alpha Chi Omega for its aid in my pursuance of education.”

HANNAH DAVIS

KATIE REYNOLDS

LAUREN PAQUE

Continue reading for a full listing of academic assistance grant recipients, available only in the digital issue of The Lyre.

ANNAMARIA FERNANDEZ

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ALPHA CHI OMEGA

Academic Assistance Grant Recipients Congratulations to the following members who were awarded academic assistance grants by the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation during the 2022-23 academic year.

A L I C E LO H R M A N A N D R E W S MICHIGAN SCHOLARSHIP FUND Qing-Ming Li Leliveld (Theta, University of Michigan) Jadyn Sayles (Delta Zeta, Central Michigan University)

ALPHA CHI CHAPTER SCHOLARSHIP FUND Jordan Elizabeth Diller (Alpha Chi, Butler University) Sophia Elizabeth Rice (Alpha Chi, Butler University)

A L P H A C H I E D U C AT I O N A L A S S I S TA N C E F U N D Abigail Grace Dame (Alpha Chi, Butler University) Aaleiha Maye Herring (Kappa Omega, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis) Cristiana Marie Rosa (Delta Zeta, Central Michigan University) Juliette Marie Woodcum (Zeta Theta, Brown University)

ALPHA CHI SCHOLARS FUND Olivia Lynn Antoniolli (Gamma Xi, Western Michigan University) Emily Cecilia Armand (Beta Psi, Louisiana Tech University) Veronica Alexis Banat (Theta Psi, Columbia University) Lauren Whitney Beavers (Delta Rho, University of Arkansas) Abby Kristin Dolan Benton (Gamma Theta, University of Maryland) Maddison Bulman (Sigma, University of Iowa) Madison Olivia Deane (Kappa Omicron, High Point University) Stephanie Alyssa Hallerman (Kappa Omicron, High Point University)

Jolie Held (Zeta Upsilon, Case Western Reserve University) Megan Elizabeth Hovey (Kappa Omicron, High Point University) Malea Skye Karnes (Gamma Zeta, Kansas State University) Alexandra Leah Kazakov (Gamma Theta, University of Maryland) Mary Elizabeth Lavorato (Alpha Upsilon, The University of Alabama) Madilyn Lola Lee (Alpha Pi, University of North Dakota) Ashleigh Kathryn Mauler (Gamma Zeta, Kansas State University) Kamilla Minkina (Iota Xi, University of California, Riverside) Kathryn Elizabeth Reardon (Lambda Pi, University of Mississippi) Hailey Reynolds (Iota Tau, California State University San Marcos) Catharine WeiMei Stockstill (Alpha Upsilon, The University of Alabama) Shawn Avery Tucker (Alpha Upsilon, The University of Alabama) Tina Julienne Valenza (Zeta Eta, Bradley University)

A L P H A D E LTA C H A P T E R SCHOLARSHIP FUND Keirsten Marcy (Zeta Upsilon, Case Western Reserve University)

ALPHA GAMMA ALPHA GEORGIA SCHOLARSHIP FUND Hannah Marie O’Kelley (Beta Sigma, University of Georgia) Lilly Madison Wood (Beta Sigma, University of Georgia)

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FOUNDATION

A L P H A K A P PA C E N T E N N I A L E D U C AT I O N A L A S S I S TA N C E G R A N T

A S H L E E TO W N S E N D C R I B B SCHOLARSHIP FUND

Isabella Farwell Sommers (Alpha Kappa, University of Oregon)

Margaret Grace Bradley (Epsilon Phi, Georgia Institute of Technology) Nidhi Reddy (Epsilon Phi, Georgia Institute of Technology)

ALPHA NU CENTENNIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND Lily Ann Terrell (Alpha Nu, University of Missouri)

B A R B A R A E G E R TO N B R A D Y T I L L E R Y SCHOLARSHIP FUND

A L P H A Z E TA U N D E R G R A D U AT E F U N D I N M E M O R Y O F K AY R O H

Julia Chamberlin (Epsilon Chi, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill)

Ella James Ardizoni (Delta Chi, William Woods University) Paige Reann Davis (Alpha Nu, University of Missouri) Macie Erin Edwards (Delta Chi, William Woods University) Karissa Carolyn Wichmann (Alpha Nu, University of Missouri)

B A R B A R A P I E R C E E M P LO Y E E E D U C AT I O N A L A S S I S TA N C E F U N D

ANGELA COSTLEY HARRIS E D U C AT I O N A L A S S I S TA N C E F U N D Anna Elizabeth Azim (Theta, University of Michigan) Qing-Ming Li Leliveld (Theta, University of Michigan) Dechhen Karmo Sherpa (Theta, University of Michigan) Rita Nicole Vega (Theta, University of Michigan)

ANGELS OF PI CHAPTER SCHOLARSHIP Arnela Colic (Pi, University of California, Berkeley) Dina Rose Katgara (Pi, University of California, Berkeley)

A N N E F O L R AT H G E R H A R T C A R L A H E N K E M AT T S O N F U N D Soumya Bysani (Alpha Nu, University of Missouri) Hannah Nicole Davis (Alpha Nu, University of Missouri) Abby Marie Bell Harper (Alpha Nu, University of Missouri) Morgan Elizabeth Porter (Alpha Nu, University of Missouri)

ANNE PEEL HOPKINS FUND Anna M. Gross (Gamma Xi, Western Michigan University) Lauren Massey (Zeta Omega, Western Carolina University)

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ALPHA CHI OMEGA

Allison J. Foster (Gamma Chi, Stetson University) Julie Goldsberry Melissa Perez Ramirez (Beta Omega, The University of Toledo)

BEL LARUE NEAL FUND Macie Faye Barker (Alpha, DePauw University) Miranda Christine Bognar (Alpha, DePauw University) Reagan Elizabeth Dees (Alpha, DePauw University) Tam Thanh My Ngo (Alpha, DePauw University) Lauren Morgan Paque (Alpha, DePauw University) Samantha Anne Pinnick (Alpha, DePauw University)

B E TA C H I S C H O L A R S H I P F U N D I N M E M O R Y O F K AT H E R I N E I O N E REDMOND Charlotte Brianne Jackson (Beta Chi, Willamette University) Courtney Janae St. Onge (Beta Chi, Willamette University) Quinna Avery Sypher (Beta Chi, Willamette University)

B E TA E P S I LO N C H A P T E R SCHOLARSHIP IN MEMORY OF MARY B E T H K N OX Ashley Patterson (Beta Epsilon, Michigan State University)

BETTY THOMAS MARSHALL - T H O M A S VA N PAT T E N SCHOLARSHIP FUND Christabel Elizabeth Forney (Delta Nu, Iowa State University)

BONNIE HOUSE ANDREWS FUND Sara Casareto (Gamma Pi, University of Tampa) Kayla Elizabeth Gray (Zeta Upsilon, Case Western Reserve University) Ashley Marie Pendleton (Delta Chi, William Woods University)

B R A N D O LY N D I C K E Y H E N D E R S O N MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND Emily Grace Barton (Psi, The University of Oklahoma)

BURNETTE GRIMES JONES SCHOLARSHIP FUND Akimi Lloret Nagano (Omega, Washington State University)

C A R O L E D M U N D S O N H U TC H E S O N E D U C AT I O N A L A S S I S TA N C E F U N D Savannah Baker (Iota Rho, Loyola University Chicago) Cassidy Lewis (Epsilon Omega, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo) Keirsten Marcy (Zeta Upsilon, Case Western Reserve University) Jacqueline Sierra Maze (Gamma Chi, Stetson University) Kelsey Ann Moisan (Alpha, DePauw University) Ny Truc Nguyen Duong (Delta Mu, University of Massachusetts) Libby Marie Petrie (Delta Rho, University of Arkansas) Corinna Maria Robinson (Beta Omicron, Florida Southern College) Sarah Whitmore Stucky (Rho, University of Washington)

C AT H Y S M I T H B O R AG N O SCHOLARSHIP FUND Ashley Wang Searcy (Epsilon Psi, University of California, Irvine)

C H AV E Z- C U R R I E FA M I LY E D U C AT I O N A L A S S I S TA N C E F U N D Julia Rose Bradley (Alpha Upsilon, The University of Alabama)

C H E R Y L M A I Z E E D U C AT I O N A L A S S I S TA N C E F U N D F O R D E LTA OMICRON CHAPTER

Leah Dee Batisan (Delta Omicron, Portland State University) Athena Crane (Delta Omicron, Portland State University) Josephine Van Do (Delta Omicron, Portland State University) Emily Phan Le (Delta Omicron, Portland State University) Hannah Marie Montgomery (Delta Omicron, Portland State University)

CLAUDIA STEELE BAKER SCHOLARSHIP FUND Kathleen Murray Wirth (Iota Psi, Elon University)

C O U R T N E Y S T E WA R T A S H L E Y KNIGHT NELSON MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND Danielle Sophia Alam (Epsilon Kappa, California State University, Fullerton) Hailey Dawn Gecgil (Epsilon Kappa, California State University, Fullerton) Genevieve Camille Khoury (Epsilon Kappa, California State University, Fullerton)

“ J oining Alpha Chi Omega has enriched my college experience by giving me a group of strong women to enhance and support my educational dreams.”

– J A D Y N S AY L E S ( D E LTA Z E TA , CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY)

Jaeyden Orion Ballou (Delta Omicron, Portland State University) THE LYRE

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FOUNDATION

DA R L I N E R E I L E Y C O O L E Y SCHOLARSHIP FUND Kyera Blue Lutton (Beta Chi, Willamette University) Courtney Janae St. Onge (Beta Chi, Willamette University)

D E N S LO W S C H O L A R S H I P F U N D Anna Pipinos (Iota Nu, University of California San Diego)

DONNA SMITH CHERECK SCHOLARSHIP FUND

D E E D E E B Y C H A K S TO L S H E K MEMORIAL FUND

Isabelle Marcus (Alpha Phi, The University of Texas at Austin)

Danielle Sophia Alam (Epsilon Kappa, California State University, Fullerton) Genevieve Camille Khoury (Epsilon Kappa, California State University, Fullerton)

D O R OT H E A D E K AY S C H I C K SCHOLARSHIP FUND

D E LTA C H A P T E R E D U C AT I O N A L A S S I S TA N C E F U N D Sarah Rose Allison (Delta, Allegheny College)

D E LTA E P S I LO N 5 0 T H A N N I V E R S A R Y SCHOLARSHIP FUND Vivian C. Noyd (Iota Lambda, Texas Christian University)

“Your generosity is going to allow me to finish my bachelor’s degree financially stressfree, and that is the greatest gift anyone could ask for.”

– H A N N A H M O N TG O M E R Y ( D E LTA O M I C R O N , P O R T L A N D S TAT E UNIVERSITY)

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ALPHA CHI OMEGA

Alayne Michelle Heisler (Xi, University of Nebraska Lincoln) Samantha Nicole Humphrys (Beta Eta, Florida State University) Aliya Jo Oceguera (Xi, University of Nebraska Lincoln)

EDNA HOFFMAN BOWMAN FUND Madelyn Jane Hall (Psi, The University of Oklahoma)

E D U C AT I O N A L A S S I S TA N C E F U N D I N H O N O R O F K A P PA O M I C R O N Madison Olivia Deane (Kappa Omicron, High Point University) Megan Elizabeth Hovey (Kappa Omicron, High Point University)

E L E A N O R F OX S C H O L A R S H I P F U N D Courtney Janae St. Onge (Beta Chi, Willamette University)

E L E A N O R S M I T H F OX E D U C AT I O N A L A S S I S TA N C E F U N D Grace Ann McNamara (Psi, The University of Oklahoma)

E L L E N S C H A L K- F E I L D M E M O R I A L SCHOLARSHIP FUND Kassidy Brooke Bailey (Kappa Sigma, The University of Southern Mississippi) Abigail Grace Dame (Alpha Chi, Butler University) Gianna Marie Foisy (Beta Phi, Bowling Green State University) Petra D. Frans (Omicron, Baker University) Paloma Simone Gasparov (Alpha Psi, UCLA) Alia Hope Graham (Lambda Mu, Trinity College) Kayla Marie Hannah (Beta Eta, Florida State University)

Sara Hassler (Gamma Chi, Stetson University) Aaleiha Maye Herring (Kappa Omega, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis) Julia Grace Koren (Beta Eta, Florida State University) Ansleigh Paige Lewis (Delta Pi, University of Tennessee, Knoxville) Tania Lopez Gutierrez (Theta Psi, Columbia University) Jacqueline Sierra Maze (Gamma Chi, Stetson University) Colleen Patricia McGuire (Theta Upsilon, University of South Carolina) Claire Jianju Mills (Zeta Lambda, University of Virginia) Haileigh Elizabeth Moore (Kappa Omicron, High Point University) Charlotte Ann Morse (Gamma Xi, Western Michigan University) Laura Munoz (Zeta Theta, Brown University) Hayley Elizabeth Nowak (Beta Rho, American University) Libby Marie Petrie (Delta Rho, University of Arkansas) Corinna Maria Robinson (Beta Omicron, Florida Southern College) Clara Christine Silva (Delta Omicron, Portland State University) Jaylene Sosa (Beta Eta, Florida State University) Jessica Skye Wenner (Iota Psi, Elon University) Olivia Florence Zimmerman (Zeta Tau, Villanova University)

E P S I LO N C H I C H A P T E R E D U C AT I O N A L A S S I S TA N C E F U N D Julia Chamberlin (Epsilon Chi, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill) Caroline Wall Day (Epsilon Chi, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill) Ellen Theresa Pruss (Epsilon Chi, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill)

E P S I LO N K A P PA S C H O L A R S H I P I N MEMORY OF CHRISTIAN NEIL BEHLE Clara Filippa Linnea Oscarson (Epsilon Kappa, California State University, Fullerton) Tatiana Marie Temelo (Epsilon Kappa, California State University, Fullerton) Harli Alexis Webster (Epsilon Kappa, California State University, Fullerton)

E P S I LO N O M I C R O N LO V E A N D LO YA LT Y F U N D Riley Marie Murphy (Epsilon Omicron, Indiana State University)

E P S I LO N P S I C H A P T E R 3 0 T H ANNIVERSARY SCHOLARSHIP Nicole Julie Kirkorian (Epsilon Psi, University of California, Irvine) Brianna Lynn Ma (Epsilon Psi, University of California, Irvine)

E P S I LO N Z E TA 5 0 T H A N N I V E R S A R Y FUND Corinne Elizabeth Cheramie-White (Epsilon Zeta, Auburn University)

E R I C A LY N B O W D E N M E M O R I A L SCHOLARSHIP FUND Nicole Alex Kozney (Beta Lambda, University of Arizona)

ERNESTINE FISCHER LAMBERTUS FUND MaKayla Sue Benson (Sigma, University of Iowa) Alia Hope Graham (Lambda Mu, Trinity College) Chloe Ming-hui Ku (Zeta Upsilon, Case Western Reserve University) Hayley Elizabeth Nowak (Beta Rho, American University) Mahnoor Zahid (Alpha, DePauw University)

F LO R E N C E A R M S T R O N G SCHOLARSHIP FUND Hayley Elizabeth Nowak (Beta Rho, American University)

F LO R E N C E S TA I G E R LO N N E D U C AT I O N A L F U N D Kassidy Brooke Bailey (Kappa Sigma, The University of Southern Mississippi) MaKayla Sue Benson (Sigma, University of Iowa) Julia Rose Bradley (Alpha Upsilon, The University of Alabama) Phoebe Frances Bunting (Epsilon Zeta, Auburn University) Arnela Colic (Pi, University of California, Berkeley) Campbell Grace Collinsworth (Alpha Chi, Butler University) THE LYRE

27

FOUNDATION

Melody Marie Coronado (Pi, University of California, Berkeley) Natalie Alicia Davies (Delta Lambda, Ripon College) Kylie Anne Doyle (Beta Delta, College of William & Mary) AnnaMaria Fernandez (Zeta Chi, Muhlenberg College) Katelyn McKenna Flynn (Gamma Zeta, Kansas State University) Gianna Marie Foisy (Beta Phi, Bowling Green State University) Petra D. Frans (Omicron, Baker University) Delaney Ann Fry (Rho, University of Washington) Emily Gamache (Gamma Sigma, University of Rhode Island) Madison Michelle Hartling (Gamma Sigma, University of Rhode Island) Aaleiha Maye Herring (Kappa Omega, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis) Caroline Kostic (Kappa Xi, University of West Florida) Lauren Shen Ying Lee (Theta Psi, Columbia University) Kaitlyn Marie Manning (Zeta Psi, Loyola University New Orleans) Keirsten Marcy (Zeta Upsilon, Case Western Reserve University) Savannah E. Matherly (Zeta Omega, Western Carolina University) Rebecca Nicole May (Beta Chi, Willamette University) Jacqueline Sierra Maze (Gamma Chi, Stetson University) Rachel Ann McNeal (Zeta Nu, Texas A&M University) Charlotte Ann Morse (Gamma Xi, Western Michigan University) Laura Munoz (Zeta Theta, Brown University) Ny Truc Nguyen Duong (Delta Mu, University of Massachusetts) Hannah Marie O’Kelley (Beta Sigma, University of Georgia) Grayson Pitt (Zeta Omicron, Vanderbilt University) Mariajose Ramirez (Kappa Upsilon, Florida International University) Hailey Reynolds (Iota Tau, California State University San Marcos) Jasmyn Audriana Sams (Gamma Sigma, University of Rhode Island) Jadyn Sayles (Delta Zeta, Central Michigan University) Jaylene Sosa (Beta Eta, Florida State University) Ashley Stojkov (Alpha Omicron, The Ohio State University) Ashley Streitmatter (Zeta Eta, Bradley University) Payton Grace Sullivan (Rho, University of Washington) 28

ALPHA CHI OMEGA

Quinna Avery Sypher (Beta Chi, Willamette University) Amanda Thazin Tanaka (Pi, University of California, Berkeley) Sara Grace Travis (Delta Pi, University of Tennessee, Knoxville) Jessica Skye Wenner (Iota Psi, Elon University) Juliette Marie Woodcum (Zeta Theta, Brown University)

F LO R I DA S C H O L A R S H I P F U N D Emily Frances McGuckin (Iota Lambda, Texas Christian University)

F O U N D E R S ’ F E L LO W S H I P F U N D Hope Isabella Crossley (Alpha Psi, UCLA) Isabella Farwell Sommers (Alpha Kappa, University of Oregon) Lilly Madison Wood (Beta Sigma, University of Georgia)

F R A N C E S PAT TO N W I L S O N SCHOLARSHIP FUND Macie Faye Barker (Alpha, DePauw University) Miranda Christine Bognar (Alpha, DePauw University) Reagan Elizabeth Dees (Alpha, DePauw University) Tam Thanh My Ngo (Alpha, DePauw University) Lauren Morgan Paque (Alpha, DePauw University) Kate Lynn Pederson (Alpha, DePauw University) Samantha Anne Pinnick (Alpha, DePauw University) Matigan Natana Williams (Alpha, DePauw University)

FRANCES TUTTLE CASBARIAN A L P H A TA U S C H O L A R S H I P F U N D Sara Lauren Allen (Alpha Tau, University of New Hampshire)

GENEVIEVE M. RASCO SCHOLARSHIP FUND Mara Emily Pilgrim (Beta, Albion College) Michaley Paige Vieau (Beta, Albion College)

GERTRUDE GALBRAITH WIEGMAN SCHOLARSHIP FUND Amber Ann Leigh Anderson (Alpha Pi, University of North Dakota) Madison Olivia Wilson (Alpha Pi, University of North Dakota)

“Because of this, I can focus more on my studies and continue to pursue opportunities in the field of family law and children advocacy.”

– K AT E H E R N D O N ( A L P H A U P S I LO N , THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA)

Kayly Michelle Cofer (Epsilon Zeta, Auburn University) Dulce Sofia Depaz (Alpha Tau, University of New Hampshire) Reegan Bryn Huennerkopf (Beta Omicron, Florida Southern College) Destiny Eileen Ellis Kramer (Theta Iota, Baylor University) Selma Maric (Iota Psi, Elon University) Kamilla Minkina (Iota Xi, University of California, Riverside) Elliana Marie Pahlman (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota) Flora Myrle Pollack (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota) Elyanna Rondon (Alpha Omicron, The Ohio State University) Ana Valeria Vazquez Navas (Theta Psi, Columbia University) Lilly Madison Wood (Beta Sigma, University of Georgia) Lauren Elizabeth Young (Beta Sigma, University of Georgia)

HELEN B. STEG SCHOLARSHIP FUND G LO R I A M A E N E L S O N M E M O R I A L SCHOLARSHIP FUND FOR ALPHA L A M B DA Elliana Marie Pahlman (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota) Flora Myrle Pollack (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota)

HANNAH KEENAN SCHOLARSHIP FUND Julia Rose Bradley (Alpha Upsilon, The University of Alabama) Abigail Grace Dame (Alpha Chi, Butler University) Christabel Elizabeth Forney (Delta Nu, Iowa State University) Abigail Nicole Fulton (Alpha Chi, Butler University) Kendall Ogin (Gamma, Northwestern University) Madeline Elizabeth Orgen (Zeta Pi, Arizona State University) Grayson Pitt (Zeta Omicron, Vanderbilt University)

HARRIET THWING HOLDEN SCHOLARSHIP FUND

Rose Dunlap (Delta Zeta, Central Michigan University) Jadyn Sayles (Delta Zeta, Central Michigan University)

HELEN LEYTZE RADCLIFFE SCHOLARSHIP FUND Jordyn Faith Hirsch (Nu, University of Colorado Boulder)

H O N O R A B L E H A R R I S O N W. E W I N G F E L LO W S H I P Courtney Jayne Lekai (Alpha Upsilon, The University of Alabama) Cassidy Lewis (Epsilon Omega, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo) Kaitlyn Marie Manning (Zeta Psi, Loyola University New Orleans) Riley Jordan Marelli (Zeta Psi, Loyola University New Orleans) Charlotte Ann Morse (Gamma Xi, Western Michigan University) Diana Rose Yoraschek (Iota Phi, Quinnipiac University)

Brynn Campbell Arnold (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota) THE LYRE

29

FOUNDATION

J A N E B I R D LO H S E S C H O L A R S H I P

“It is an honor to be a real, strong woman and part of something bigger than myself.”

– S A R A K R E M I T Z K I ( E P S I LO N O M I C R O N , I N D I A N A S TAT E UNIVERSITY)

HORTENSE OSMUN MILLERH O R T E N S E M I L L E R A DA M S SCHOLARSHIP FUND Annie Abigail Murphy (Theta, University of Michigan) Lauren Grace Schleiter (Theta, University of Michigan)

H O WA R D A N D J E A N N E K A R R E D U C AT I O N A L A S S I S TA N C E F U N D Jacqueline Sierra Maze (Gamma Chi, Stetson University)

I OTA I OTA A L U M N A E C H A P T E R SCHOLARSHIP FUND Elle Logan Baker (Rho, University of Washington)

I OTA L A M B DA C H A P T E R SCHOLARSHIP FUND Madison Priscilla Bennett (Iota Lambda, Texas Christian University)

J A N C R A N DA L L M E M O R I A L SCHOLARSHIP FUND Ruby Katherine Boswell (Omicron, Baker University) Petra D. Frans (Omicron, Baker University)

30

ALPHA CHI OMEGA

Alayne Michelle Heisler (Xi, University of Nebraska Lincoln) Kelly Lynn Kozol (Xi, University of Nebraska - Lincoln) Aliya Jo Oceguera (Xi, University of Nebraska Lincoln) Mikayla Christine Schroeder (Phi, University of Kansas)

J A N E T H R A D F O R D E D U C AT I O N A L A S S I S TA N C E F U N D Elizabeth Grace Lyman (Chi, Oregon State University)

JANET MARIE BRADLEY BROWN BALL BREECE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND Kassidy Brooke Bailey (Kappa Sigma, The University of Southern Mississippi)

J E A N N E S C H A R N B E R G S TA F F SCHOLARSHIP FUND Gabi Lauren Arthur (Alpha Mu, Indiana University) Emily Rose Barsantee (Alpha Mu, Indiana University) Lexi Lea-Ann Danielson (Alpha Mu, Indiana University) Isabelle Marie DeCastro (Alpha Mu, Indiana University) Elaine Elizabeth Dorsey (Alpha Mu, Indiana University) Chloe Eades (Alpha Mu, Indiana University) Lilly Jane Fair (Alpha Mu, Indiana University) Eleanor Elizabeth Konow (Alpha Mu, Indiana University) Victoria Lukyan (Alpha Mu, Indiana University) Ellie Ann Pedersen (Alpha Mu, Indiana University)

J E A N N E T TA L A N D F U N D Phoebe Frances Bunting (Epsilon Zeta, Auburn University) Corinne Elizabeth Cheramie-White (Epsilon Zeta, Auburn University) Kayly Michelle Cofer (Epsilon Zeta, Auburn University) Sophie Camille Dishman (Epsilon Zeta, Auburn University) Emily Beatrice Grant (Epsilon Zeta, Auburn University) Lily Grace Wilson (Epsilon Zeta, Auburn University)

J E S S I E FA N Y O PAY N E F U N D Shawn Avery Tucker (Alpha Upsilon, The University of Alabama)

J O A N N C K E N T E D U C AT I O N A L A S S I S TA N C E F U N D F O R G A M M A CHAPTER Alex Perry (Gamma, Northwestern University) Libby Raymond (Gamma, Northwestern University)

J OA N R O S S I N S T E P H A N S G R A D U AT E E D U C AT I O N A L A S S I S TA N C E F U N D Savannah E. Matherly (Zeta Omega, Western Carolina University)

J OA N R O S S I N S T E P H A N S U N D E R G R A D U AT E E D U C AT I O N A L A S S I S TA N C E G R A N T Keirsten Marcy (Zeta Upsilon, Case Western Reserve University)

J O D Y B AY E R M A R T I N D I L L SCHOLARSHIP FUND Kate Lynn Pederson (Alpha, DePauw University) Matigan Natana Williams (Alpha, DePauw University)

J O H N E D WA R D H U R L E Y, J R .

SCHOLARSHIP Emily Jane Barton (Upsilon, Millikin University) Meredith Ann Brown (Omicron, Baker University) Mia Rose Pogach (Kappa Nu, Carnegie Mellon University) Mikayla Christine Schroeder (Phi, University of Kansas) Dechhen Karmo Sherpa (Theta, University of Michigan)

JONES MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND

JUDITH ZIEGLER PHILLIPS FUND IN H O N O R O F G A M M A L A M B DA Sara Elizabeth Kremitzki (Epsilon Omicron, Indiana State University) Anna Kathryn Richie (Lambda Pi, University of Mississippi)

J U L I E A N N TA M B O R I N O M E M O R I A L SCHOLARSHIP FUND Tessa Wesley Neal (Theta Upsilon, University of South Carolina) Noelle Lucienne Sarafian (Theta Upsilon, University of South Carolina)

J U L I E C A I N B U R K H A R D B E TA S I G M A SCHOLARSHIP FUND Kayleigh Gayle Hammond (Beta Sigma, University of Georgia) Cayce Carmichael Sherer (Beta Sigma, University of Georgia) Grace Elizabeth Zimmerman (Beta Sigma, University of Georgia)

K A P PA N U C H A P T E R E D U C AT I O N A L A S S I S TA N C E F U N D Grayce Henderson (Kappa Nu, Carnegie Mellon University)

KAREN E. WEIR MEMORIAL FUND Akimi Lloret Nagano (Omega, Washington State University)

L A R E T TA M AT T H E W S G A R L A N D SCHOLARSHIP FUND Veronica Alexis Banat (Theta Psi, Columbia University) Meredith Ann Brown (Omicron, Baker University) Anna Pipinos (Iota Nu, University of California San Diego)

Macie Faye Barker (Alpha, DePauw University) Kate Lynn Pederson (Alpha, DePauw University) Matigan Natana Williams (Alpha, DePauw University)

LAUREN SNOW MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND FOR CHI CHAPTER

JUDITH THOMAS VIGOR SCHOLARSHIP FUND

Katherine Dougherty (Chi, Oregon State University)

Keirsten Marcy (Zeta Upsilon, Case Western Reserve University)

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31

FOUNDATION

L AV O N E W O H L B I E R B A R T I N E / L I S A BARTINE FERGUSON SCHOLARSHIP FUND Brynn Campbell Arnold (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota) Flora Myrle Pollack (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota)

L I L L I A N P O L L AC K C AW L E Y F U N D I N H O N O R O F G A M M A L A M B DA Megan Ann Korosy (Alpha Eta, University of Mount Union) Savanah Mariah Valadez (Gamma Rho, Texas Tech University)

L I N A B A U M VA N R O Y S C H O L A R S H I P FUND Abigail Jia Qi Gan (Theta Iota, Baylor University)

LINDSEY SELLECK TIDWELL SCHOLARSHIP FOR TERRY COLLEGE OF BUSINESS Casey Brianna Maguire (Beta Sigma, University of Georgia)

LISA HANCOCK REHRIG E D U C AT I O N A L A S S I S TA N C E F U N D Cassidy Lewis (Epsilon Omega, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo) Ashley Yang (Pi, University of California, Berkeley)

MARIAN MCKEE SMITH-ROSALIE M C K I N N E Y J AC K S O N S C H O L A R S H I P FUND Raegan Clark Barton (Gamma Rho, Texas Tech University) Hannah Marie Bolender (Zeta Upsilon, Case Western Reserve University) Natalie Taylor Davis (Alpha Upsilon, The University of Alabama) AnnaMaria Fernandez (Zeta Chi, Muhlenberg College) Madelyn Jane Hall (Psi, The University of Oklahoma) Aaleiha Maye Herring (Kappa Omega, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis) Jordyn Faith Hirsch (Nu, University of Colorado Boulder) Lydia Lee (Delta Nu, Iowa State University)

32

ALPHA CHI OMEGA

Lauren Massey (Zeta Omega, Western Carolina University) Jacqueline Sierra Maze (Gamma Chi, Stetson University) Reagan Alyse Nieves (Delta Omega, University of Kentucky) Emily Lynn Reed (Epsilon Upsilon, Mississippi State University) Lauren Grace Schleiter (Theta, University of Michigan) Michaley Paige Vieau (Beta, Albion College) Jessica Skye Wenner (Iota Psi, Elon University)

MARION MORITZ FUND Mikaela Lawrence (Xi, University of Nebraska Lincoln)

MARJORIE CARTER BRECKNER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP Hayley Makayla Koon (Alpha Eta, University of Mount Union)

MARSHA KING GRADY SCHOLARSHIP FUND Kate Elizabeth Herndon (Alpha Upsilon, The University of Alabama)

MARY EMMA GRIFFITH MARSHALL F E L LO W S H I P F U N D Arnela Colic (Pi, University of California, Berkeley) Kayla Mackenzie Delpino (Epsilon Chi, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill)

MARY FRANCES GUILBERT MARIANI-BIGLER CONTINUING E D U C AT I O N F U N D Karen E. Klein (Gamma Omicron, Marshall University) Emily Nicole Price (Iota Alpha, Alumnae Initiates) Shenequa Scott (Iota Alpha, Alumnae Initiates)

MARY MCMURTRY WINKLER FUND F O R E P S I LO N Z E TA C H A P T E R Phoebe Frances Bunting (Epsilon Zeta, Auburn University) Corinne Elizabeth Cheramie-White (Epsilon Zeta, Auburn University)

M A R Y S TA R K W E AT H E R FA U S T SCHOLARSHIP FUND Sarah Kaye Carpenter (Alpha Omega, BirminghamSouthern College)

M A R Y TAY LO R S M I T H , M A R I LY N S M I T H G R AC E & PAT R I C I A S M I T H JENKINS FUND Jenna Sue Jackson (Zeta Sigma, Missouri State University)

M E R LY N N H A R R I S P I TC H E R B E TA N U / B E TA X I F U N D Asha L. Brown (Beta Nu, University of Utah) Emma Nicole Dawson (Beta Xi, Utah State University) Elizabeth Claire Farmer (Beta Nu, University of Utah)

MIRIAM DECKER SCHOLARSHIP FUND Elizabeth Burks (Gamma Epsilon, Oklahoma State University) Courtney Jayne Lekai (Alpha Upsilon, The University of Alabama) Brianna Lynn Ma (Epsilon Psi, University of California, Irvine) Riley Jordan Marelli (Zeta Psi, Loyola University New Orleans) Libby Marie Petrie (Delta Rho, University of Arkansas)

NU NU ALUMNAE CHAPTER FUND Alia Hope Graham (Lambda Mu, Trinity College)

OMICRON CHAPTER CENTENNIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND Meredith Ann Brown (Omicron, Baker University) Petra D. Frans (Omicron, Baker University) Samantha Noelle Resch (Omicron, Baker University)

PAT R I C I A O ’ B R I E N F R E C H E T T E S C H O L A R S H I P F O R K A P PA C H A P T E R Riley Jayne Dreher (Delta Nu, Iowa State University) Chloe Loera (Pi, University of California, Berkeley) Katie Rae Reynolds (Gamma Pi, University of Tampa) Victoria Romero (Eta, Bucknell University) Maggie Mae Shaw (Zeta Chi, Muhlenberg College)

PAT R I C I A O ’ B R I E N F R E C H E T T E SCHOLARSHIP FUND FOR GAMMA CHAPTER Brinlee O’Neale Foreman (Beta Eta, Florida State University) Josalyn Khezemi Jado (Iota Omega, Carthage College) Grace Virginia Jones (Gamma, Northwestern University) Makely Phillips (Beta Rho, American University) Emma Marie Salem (Gamma, Northwestern University)

R O B I N E T T E FA M I LY L E G AC Y SCHOLARSHIP FUND Elle Logan Baker (Rho, University of Washington)

R O C K Y TO P S C H O L A R S H I P F U N D Honour Alexandra Grand (Delta Pi, University of Tennessee, Knoxville) Ansleigh Paige Lewis (Delta Pi, University of Tennessee, Knoxville) Ginevieve Marie Tetley (Delta Pi, University of Tennessee, Knoxville) Sara Grace Travis (Delta Pi, University of Tennessee, Knoxville)

“I am so thankful that I have found myself surrounded by women striving for the same goals and ambitions as myself.”

– L I L LY W O O D ( B E TA S I G M A , UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA)

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33

FOUNDATION

R O V I R A FA M I LY T R U S T L E A D E R S H I P AWA R D

T H E TA U P S I LO N C H A P T E R SCHOLARSHIP FUND

Genevieve Camille Khoury (Epsilon Kappa, California State University, Fullerton)

Katherine Helen Nutt (Theta Upsilon, University of South Carolina) Noelle Lucienne Sarafian (Theta Upsilon, University of South Carolina)

R U T H PA D D O C K M A U G E R F U N D Abbie Grace Levi (Alpha Mu, Indiana University) Elia Makinson (Alpha Mu, Indiana University)

S A L LY C A L L A H A N S C H O L A R S H I P FUND Lauren Olivia Ducharme (Alpha Pi, University of North Dakota)

S H AW N M A R G A R E T D O N N E L L E Y SCHOLARSHIP FUND

U P S I LO N C H A P T E R E D U C AT I O N A L A S S I S TA N C E F U N D Emily Jane Barton (Upsilon, Millikin University) Alexandria Danielle Sears (Upsilon, Millikin University)

V I R G I N I A K E L LY K A R N E S SCHOLARSHIP FUND Parker Sikora (Alpha Beta, Purdue University)

Kaitlyn Marie Manning (Zeta Psi, Loyola University New Orleans) Riley Jordan Marelli (Zeta Psi, Loyola University New Orleans)

Emma Smith (Alpha Eta, University of Mount Union)

S I G M A C H A P T E R E D U C AT I O N A L A S S I S TA N C E F U N D

W R U B E L FA M I LY S C H O L A R S H I P FUND

Maddison Bulman (Sigma, University of Iowa)

Mia Rose Pogach (Kappa Nu, Carnegie Mellon University)

SUSAN ESCO CHANDLER FUND

WESCHE STRASSER SCHOLARSHIP FUND

Chloe Elizabeth Klonowski (Psi, The University of Oklahoma)

Z E TA N U C H A P T E R 2 5 T H ANNIVERSARY FUND

S U S I E A N D J O H N L . A DA M S E D U C AT I O N A L A S S I S TA N C E F U N D

Logan Reed Good (Zeta Nu, Texas A&M University) Tenna Møller Poulsen (Zeta Nu, Texas A&M University)

Lillian Katharine Bien (Alpha Phi, The University of Texas at Austin) Katelyn McKenna Flynn (Gamma Zeta, Kansas State University) Megan Leilua Tung-Weston (Alpha Gamma, The University of New Mexico)

TEXAS SCHOLARSHIP FUND Emilia Maria McBride (Iota Sigma, Southern Methodist University) Madison Roy (Gamma Rho, Texas Tech University)

T H E TA P S I C H A P T E R F U N D I N M E M O R Y O F R AC H E L S W E T T Veronica Alexis Banat (Theta Psi, Columbia University) Isabel Bialer Lapidus (Theta Psi, Columbia University) 34

ALPHA CHI OMEGA

Z E TA P H I C H A P T E R E D U C AT I O N A L A S S I S TA N C E F U N D Margot Nicole Baker (Zeta Phi, Cornell University) Misha Kaki Caternor (Zeta Phi, Cornell University) Jolene Faith Gagliano (Zeta Phi, Cornell University) Fiona Spring Gao (Zeta Phi, Cornell University) Clarice Xin Jie Lim (Zeta Phi, Cornell University) Kelly Pellegrino (Zeta Phi, Cornell University) Natalina Josetta Putrino (Zeta Phi, Cornell University) Mercedes Petras Reyes (Zeta Phi, Cornell University)

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SHOPALPHACHI.COM THE LYRE

35

HOUSING

Spaces to Seek the Heights HOW THE NHC IS EMPOWERING MEMBERS TO ACHIEVE MORE

BY KENDALL SUESS (GAMMA EPSILON, OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY), HOUSING OPERATIONS COORDINATOR

T

he National Housing Corporation (NHC) offers members a unique living and learning experience throughout their collegiate career. From study rooms to outdoor patios and more, chapter facilities create encouraging spaces for sisters to continue seeking the heights. Let’s take a look at some of the ways the NHC promotes growth and sisterhood through chapter facilities.

SUPPORTIVE ACADEMIC ENVIRONMENTS Having a space to be able to focus on school, work, job interviews, etc. is important. Academic spaces in chapter facilities range from group study rooms to executive conference rooms to quiet zones. These areas can be used for members to focus on upcoming tests, work together on a group project or spend some time studying with sisters. Chapters often host events like study nights, sister tutoring and executive board meetings in the chapter facilities, so having access to spaces dedicated to learning can encourage academic success and support among members, making these rooms an important part of their collegiate journey.

LIVING ROOM AT ALPHA (DEPAUW UNIVERSIT Y)

SAFETY AND SECURITY MEASURES

STUDY ROOM AT GAMMA THETA (UNIVERSIT Y OF MARYL AND) 36

ALPHA CHI OMEGA

Safety is one of the most important aspects to ensure the well-being of the chapter members who are living in the facility. The NHC has put in place safety and security precautions to help the women feel safe and at home. Some of these measures include fire sprinkler systems, exterior security cameras and access control systems. The feeling of safety aids in fostering a healthy and supportive living environment.

OUTDOOR SPACES AND SUNPORCHES Outdoor spaces and sunporches in a chapter facility play an important role in promoting sisterhood, as these areas give chapter members a place to enjoy the outside and relax. These areas are often thoughtfully designed patios and courtyards, as well as sunrooms filled with plants and flowers or large windows to give sisters an opportunity to unwind and connect with one another.

These spaces can also serve as social areas for sisters to bond and create special memories.

LIVING ROOM AT ALPHA KAPPA (UNIVERSIT Y OF OREGON)

COLLABORATIVE SPACES

OUTDOOR PATIO AT BETA L AMBDA (UNIVERSIT Y OF ARIZONA)

Collaborative spaces within a chapter facility are where sisters can come together and create shared experiences.

These rooms encourage working together, creativity, support and a sense of community. They also allow members to join together for meals, host a movie night in the TV lounge or living room, and work on chapter crafts or banners.

COVERED PORCH AT ZETA PI (ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSIT Y)

FORMAL LIVING ROOM AT IOTA L AMBDA (TEXAS CHRISTIAN UNIVERSIT Y)

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37

HOUSING

ACCESSIBILITY FEATURES Accessibility features in a chapter facility are important to ensure inclusivity and accommodation. By implementing wheelchair ramps, elevators and ADAcompliant features in bedrooms and bathrooms, the NHC prioritizes accessibility for chapter members and guests. These features allow every member to participate fully in all aspects of sisterhood, including living in the facility.

ZETA SIGMA (MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSIT Y) MEMBERS AT THEIR SISTERHOOD RETREAT

ADA-COMPLIANT GUEST BATHROOM AT IOTA SIGMA (SOUTHERN METHODIST UNIVERSIT Y)

BID DAY AT THE L AMBDA PI (UNIVERSIT Y OF MISSISSIPPI) FACILIT Y

HOSTING SISTERHOOD EVENTS

ELEVATOR AT GAMMA SIGMA (UNIVERSIT Y OF RHODE ISL AND)

MODERN AND FUNCTIONAL SPACES

From Bid Days to game nights, chapter facilities serve as a great place to host all kinds of sisterhood events.

Some of our chapters have used their facilities to host self-defense classes, philanthropy events, all-chapter sleepovers, canvas painting nights and many other fun opportunities. Having a place for the members to call home and enjoy these memories with one another can bring a sense of belonging and remind them of the shared values that bind them together.

Modern and functional spaces are designed to improve the quality of life and evolving needs of the chapter members. Modern amenities such as updated kitchens, common areas and bedrooms ensure the members can carry out their daily routines, whether it’s studying or spending time with each other. These updates to the facilities foster a sense of pride and create a welcoming place to call home.

These are some of the many ways sisters can continue to seek the heights while having the special opportunity to call their chapter facility “home.” The NHC continues to improve the living and learning experience through renovations, updates and improvements to its facilities!

38

ALPHA CHI OMEGA

Facility Focus ZETA SIGMA (MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSIT Y)

T

the National Housing Corporation. The NHC knew at the time of transition that improvements would be needed and immediately began planning for an update to the facility’s structure. While those structural and mechanical improvements were being made, the NHC worked closely with the chapter project team – made up of the chapter president, vice president facility operations, chapter advisor and facility operations advisor – to decide on some other exciting additions such as new décor, paint and light fixtures.

In 2020, Zeta Sigma’s chapter facility was officially transferred from the local house corporation (LHC) to

Here are some before and after pictures of the work done by the National Housing Corporation! Not pictured: the new and upgraded HVAC system and sprinkler system!

FIRST FLOOR LIVING ROOM

CONFERENCE ROOM

Wood flooring was installed to replace the carpet, along with new paint and updated décor. The existing furniture was arranged in a way to better utilize the space.

New flooring, furniture and décor create a professional feel for this room to hold executive board meetings, study sessions and more.

he Zeta Sigma chapter facility, one of the Alpha Chi Omega National Housing Corporation’s (NHC) newest properties, had many structural and mechanical improvements during the 2022-23 academic year, including updates to the entryway, conference room, living room, dining room, resident bathroom and bedrooms.

BEFORE

BEFORE

AFTER AFTER

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39

COLLEGIATE CORNER

Gaining the Confidence to Seek the Heights

BY HANNAHJANE ARELLANO (IOTA NU, UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SAN DIEGO)

N

avigating my early 20s as a first-generation college student was an arduous journey, especially during my undergraduate years. As a transfer student from a community college, I embarked on a significant shift from a culinary arts path to a legal path without the guidance or support of someone who had trodden a similar path.

HANNAHJANE ARELL ANO

This transition was fraught with challenges that led to intense bouts of imposter syndrome and negative self-talk, which were exacerbated by the fact that my immigrant parents struggled to grasp the complexities of the college experience. I was acutely aware that forging connections and finding my place in the academic and social landscape were paramount as I embarked on my undergraduate journey.

Upon attending my first chapter meeting, I was inspired by the numerous confident and outspoken members around me. Their presence encouraged me to run for the position of vice president chapter relations and standards, even though self-doubt lingered due to my status as a new member. Negative self-talk resurfaced, fueled by concerns about my qualifications and the perception of my peers.

Understanding that my time at the University of California San Diego was limited, I recognized the need to be part of something more significant than myself.

Thus, I decided to navigate the recruitment process for a sorority. Although I initially hesitated, fearing I might not fit in, this decision ultimately introduced me to lifelong connections that would shape my college experience. The recruitment process revealed a welcoming community of individuals who immediately made me feel at home. During Preference Night, I had an epiphany: choosing Alpha Chi Omega would be a transformative decision.

However, I knew that to lead effectively, I needed to embody the qualities of a leader, exuding confidence and strength. My journey to self-assured leadership paralleled my initiation into the sorority, as I grappled with what it meant to be a newly initiated member and a leader simultaneously. Fortunately, my sorority sisters offered unwavering support, reminding me of the importance of compassion and grace, both toward oneself and others.

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Alpha Chi played a pivotal role in bolstering my newfound confidence. Serving as an executive member

not only allowed me to be kinder to myself but also provided the space for increased empathy toward myself and those around me. This role positioned me to evolve alongside other individuals in our chapter. The bonds forged within Alpha Chi Omega served as a testament to my resilience, reminding me of the strength I had drawn upon in past endeavors, from pursuing a culinary career, to battling cancer and navigating the college application process during a pandemic. These experiences underscored the belief that anything was possible, from leading a chapter to graduating college and applying for law school.

In a world fraught with chaos, our hearts can weigh heavy, sapping our strength and resolve. There are days when our pursuit of greatness may seem as modest as the simple act of getting out of bed and brushing our teeth in the face of overwhelming challenges. Yet, we must recognize that greatness is not always defined by monumental feats; sometimes seeking the heights is merely pushing the boundaries of our capabilities, even if only by a fraction. On those days when our capacity is limited, it’s crucial to grant ourselves grace and embrace the process of healing and self-care.

“Sometimes seeking the heights is merely pushing the boundaries of our capabilities, even if only by a fraction.”

Ultimately, the most profound gift we can offer ourselves is confidence in our actions and the forgiveness to accept that there will be days when seeking more feels like an insurmountable task. Each day presents an opportunity to scale new heights, each one building upon the last.

HANNAHJANE (CENTER) ON HER BID DAY WITH NEW SISTERS

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Affiliation Opens Chapter Doors for Transfer Students

BY LISA YOUNG STIERS (EPSILON OMICRON, INDIANA STATE UNIVERSITY)

S

ometimes, plans change. Life happens. Priorities adjust. Dreams evolve. A student’s original university no longer fits.

More than 1 million students transferred to another college or university in 2021, according to the National Center for Educational Statistics. For Alpha Chi Omega collegians, that also means leaving their chapters of initiation behind.

But, if members’ new colleges or universities also have an Alpha Chi Omega chapter, they have a choice – affiliate. Affiliation has offered members the chance to continue their collegiate chapter experiences since the early years of the Fraternity.

Simply put, affiliation is when a member joins an Alpha Chi Omega chapter into which she was not initiated. According to Alpha Chi Omega policy, an active collegiate member in good standing who transfers to a college or university where there is a collegiate chapter may affiliate – though this is not required and the collegian may instead become an alumna member. More information about the full procedure is available at my.alphachiomega.org.

What does affiliation look like in practice? These Alpha Chi Omega sisters share their experiences.

MOVING CLOSER TO FAMILY A childhood dream to explore the west coast and spread her wings brought Olivia Cosgrove to Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.

"I've always ached to explore new states and felt that doing so would help develop me into the person I 42

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wanted to become," Olivia says. "I was immersed in the new environment and quickly fell in love with the scenery, friends and culture in San Luis Obispo."

Alpha Chi Omega added a sense of belonging. "My initial attraction to Alpha Chi Omega was hearing how openly every member talked about their personal development and the friendships they had gained from joining as a freshman,” she remembers. “I wanted the same for myself.”

As a first-generation sorority member, getting involved in the Epsilon Omega chapter was initially nervewracking. But Olivia quickly became the assistant VP risk management and threw herself into overseeing the wellbeing of her chapter. Alpha Chi Omega became home.

Sadly, actually being away from home brought heartache.

"I felt that I was missing family events that could not be replaced by pictures sent on text messages," Olivia explains. "I kept going back and forth if transferring would be the best decision for me. How could I leave the life I had made for myself and the friendships? It was not an easy decision."

FINDING THE RIGHT FIT Sometimes a school is simply not a good match, as Grace Gilmore found. ''I transferred to find a school that was a better academic and environmental fit for me," Grace says. "I had to find out what I didn’t like to find out what I do like."

GRACE GILMORE

Ultimately, Olivia decided that transferring to the University of South Carolina felt right, but so did the connections she had made with Alpha Chi Omega.

Fortunately, the Theta Upsilon chapter awaited.

"Alpha Chi Omega had become an integral part of my college experience, and I wasn't ready to let that go," she says. "From stepping into the [Theta Upsilon] house on work week, I immediately felt the love each girl had for one another. I'd never seen such strong sorority connections. I knew that I would find a place here just as I had done at Cal Poly."

Olivia jumped in quickly. "From getting check-in texts from our president to members asking the 'new girl' to hang out, I feel that I belong in this chapter," she says. "Getting dinner at the house, going on sister dates with our new members and attending sisterhood events together has made this transfer process seamless for me. I was worried that my new chapter wouldn’t be the same, but it has exceeded my expectations."

What Grace did take with her from her initial college experience at Arizona State University was her passion for Alpha Chi Omega and treasured experiences with the Zeta Pi chapter.

"I chose to affiliate [when I transferred] because I had such a positive experience being involved in Greek life at my old school, so I wanted to continue,” Grace explains.

“It was a great opportunity to meet new people and introduced me to some of my best friends."

So strong was her connection with Alpha Chi Omega that she moved directly into the Chi chapter house when she transferred to Oregon State University.

"It was a little bit scary since I did not know anyone at all and had only chatted with some of the girls virtually," she says. "I decided just going into it with an open mind and positive attitude while being the most authentic version of myself was the best way to tackle my nerves and the process as a whole."

Grace took every opportunity to get involved at Chi chapter, including being elected VP finance just two months after affiliating. "This experience really has taught me that the sisterhood of Alpha Chi is more than just within one chapter," Grace says.

As she finishes her first semester with Theta Upsilon, Olivia has plans to become even more involved — including running for office. In addition to making new relationships, Olivia is determined to maintain close ties to her chapter of initiation, particularly with her big sister Chloe.

Victoria Mata began her academic career at The University of Texas at Austin and was initiated by the Alpha Phi chapter during her sophomore year.

"I’m truly grateful that I have the opportunity to experience two chapters that have an infinite amount of love for this organization," Olivia says.

"I remember meeting Alpha Chis during recruitment, thinking that they were such wonderful role models and hoping to be just like them one day," Victoria says. "I was

FOLLOWING HER DREAM

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VICTORIA MATA

drawn in by the chapter's focus on empowering women, the dedication to our philanthropy and the fun-loving spirit of the girls I talked to."

However, later that year, Victoria was offered the chance of a lifetime – becoming a Houston Texans cheerleader.

"It was a life goal of mine to dance professionally, so when I was presented with the opportunity, I transferred schools to make it happen," Victoria explains.

Victoria’s strong connection with Alpha Chi Omega and her Alpha Phi sisters eventually led to the Gamma Upsilon chapter at the University of Houston.

"I didn’t immediately affiliate with Gamma Upsilon.

I had a very busy schedule that fall and was unsure if I would be welcome and feel at home in a new chapter," Victoria says. "But after the first few weeks of classes, it quickly became apparent to me that something in my life was missing, and that something was sisterhood.”

Still, she was nervous. Would connecting with a new chapter as a junior be possible? Victoria pushed herself to participate in as many chapter events as possible.

"I’m so grateful for how welcoming and kind they were to me, especially during my first few weeks," Victoria says. "Although I never held an elected position, I was always one to jump at the opportunity to volunteer or do tabling or attend social events. Making memories with my Alpha Chi sisters definitely paid off, and I clicked with the girls faster than I could’ve ever imagined."

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Both chapters felt like home. "I found that Gamma Upsilon, just like Alpha Phi, was filled with women who were leaders, academics, artists, fun lovers and some of the funniest people I’ve met. The values of Alpha Chi Omega, as an organization, transcend any university and are present no matter which chapter you join," says Victoria, who graduated this spring and is now studying law. "Although I did find myself making adjustments in order to better understand the differences in being part of Greek life at a much smaller school, I never once was made to change myself in order to fit in at a different chapter."

IS AFFILIATION RIGHT FOR YOU? Members offer this advice to their sisters transferring schools and considering affiliation: • Just try it – “If Alpha Chi has had a positive impact on your life, don’t be afraid to continue that journey at another school. It can make a big change feel less scary,” Olivia says. “This decision has given me more friendly faces on a large campus and a chance to get involved at my new school. It may be a bit intimidating at first, but the love and support as a transfer student from my sisters made the choice to affiliate worth it!”

•T rust your gut – “If anyone is thinking about affiliating, my biggest piece of advice would be to trust your gut and yourself!” Grace says. “You will never know unless you try.”

•R ely on your bond of sisterhood – “Remember that Alpha Chi Omegas are your sisters no matter where you are from, and they will be happy to open their arms and accept you into their chapter,” Victoria says. “Remember there is nothing stronger than this bond.

Our sisters are all held to the same standard nationally, and our chapters' values transcend any barriers. I can promise that you’ll feel at home anywhere that there’s an Alpha Chi.”

Women & Wisdom

ALPHA CHI OMEGA’S NETWORK OF REAL, STRONG WOMEN CONNECT WHILE YOU’RE ON THE GO!

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Scan the QR code or visit womenandwisdom.org on your phone or tablet to access the mobile-friendly version of our Women & Wisdom network!

an A L U M N A looking to network with sisters within and outside of your field? a C O L L E G I A N wanting support from an alumna to review your resume? a M E M B E R exploring open job, internship or volunteer opportunities? an E N T R E P R E N E U R hoping to promote your sister-owned business? a M A N A G E R seeking applicants to join your team? a S I S T E R looking for community or advice from real, strong women?

With Women & Wisdom, you can find mentoring, events, groups, job opportunities, member and business directories, and connections with sisters sharing your interests and experiences.

If you are looking to empower and support sisters in reaching their fullest potential, while investing in your personal and professional growth, Women & Wisdom is for you!

START CONNECTING AT WOMENANDWISDOM.ORG!

you missed it...

JUST IN CASE

Two sisters facilitated fall workshops. Megan Pendley Pickett (Gamma Mu, Ball State University) presented her advice and resources about preparing for the job search. Amanda Wallingsford (Zeta Omicron, Vanderbilt University) led a session on recharging from burnout. Supplemental resources were distributed to all members that attended and are available on the Women & Wisdom network. Both sessions inspired sisters to invest in themselves!

Find past SERIES recordings and more at

WOMENANDWISDOM.ORG/RESOURCES

Women & Wisdom

SERIES

PL ATFORM HIGHLIGHT BUSINESS DIRECTORY Did you know we have a business directory on our network? By adding your details to our Women & Wisdom business directory, you’re not just listing your company; you’re contributing to our shared success story. Don’t miss this opportunity to shine a light on your business and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs. We even have a special networking group just for business owners like you. Join us in making our Women & Wisdom business directory a powerful resource forT H usEall!

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Volunteering: The Secret Resume Booster

BY LISA YOUNG STIERS (EPSILON OMICRON, INDIANA STATE UNIVERSITY)

I

n January 2019, Lizett Ross (Beta Nu, University of Utah) left her job for what she expected would be a one-year break.

“COVID changed all of that, and my hiatus ended up being four years,” Lizett says. “Through that time, I had been volunteering with Alpha Chi Omega.”

When she resumed her job search in February 2023, she incorporated her volunteer experiences as province collegiate chair (PCC) into her resume and cover letters.

She focused her search on human resource positions and tailored her examples to highlight the mentorship skills she developed as PCC, a role in which she offered guidance and support to the collegiate chapter officers and advisors in her region.

Lizett had broad Alpha Chi Omega volunteer experiences to pull from – first as chapter advisor for Beta Nu and then with Delta Epsilon Delta alumnae chapter after moving to Colorado Springs. When she returned to Utah, she became the Ritual and fraternity appreciation advisor for Beta Nu, as well as a Ritual specialist, before becoming PCC. More recently, she served as a Foundation Ambassador and joined the board of the Alpha Zeta Alpha (Salt Lake City, Utah) alumnae chapter. This spring, she became the volunteer director of province collegiate chairs.

“During job interviews, I spoke about what I did and the chapters I assisted. Most of my interviewers were impressed with what my volunteer role required and saw it as credible experience,” she explains.

The strategy worked. Just a few months later, Lizett accepted a job in human resources at a local school district.

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LIZETT ROSS

MEGAN PENDLEY PICKETT

ALPHA CHI OMEGA’S VOLUNTEER CORE COMPETENCIES In support of Alpha Chi Omega’s strategic priority related to volunteer management, we have developed competencies for our volunteers to enhance their experience and help them grow personally and professionally. These skills can be applied to their roles and beyond – and can be great things to mention while seeking a job!

Our eight core competencies are: • Accountability • Action-Oriented • Builds Relationships • Celebrates Others • Communicates Well • Integrity • Motivates Others • Resiliency Members can explore the “Volunteer Resources” category of the Resource Center on my.alphachiomega.org to learn more.

Lizett is not unique in her journey, according to Megan Pendley Pickett (Gamma Mu, Ball State University), a strengths-based coach who works with adults in career and other transition.

“I do believe that many employers find volunteer experience valuable, both from a holistic candidate lens, as well as a way to connect with potential candidates on a personal level. It does show a well-roundedness,” Megan says. “That being said, some employers may not find it ‘valuable,’ but it would rarely, if ever, have a negative impact on someone's candidacy.”

Lizett encourages other job seekers – whether new to the workforce or returning after a break – to be confident in the skills they honed as a volunteer.

“When an interviewer brought up the gap in my resume, I would tell them I spent the time volunteering for a nonprofit and talked about the skills I used and what I learned from it,” she says. “I didn’t give them an opportunity to push my experience aside just because it was through volunteering. Especially in a field like human resources, recruiting, onboarding and mentoring others relates to the field.”

Both Megan and Lizett say the key is to highlight volunteer experiences and skills gained that are relevant to the job you seek. Including information in the cover letter can be a great way to spotlight volunteerism.

“I really like bullet points for highlighting relevant experiences in cover letters,” Megan says. “If one of your memberships and/or volunteer experiences are applicable, use that as one of your relevant bullet points.”

Megan encourages job seekers to check out resume templates and examples online to see what might work best in their individual situation. One good option is to include your volunteer or civic experiences in a short subsection near the end of your resume.

Alternatively, you could follow Lizett’s example and add relevant volunteer details to the experience section on your resume. She explains, “I started off listing it in a different section and didn’t hear much. Once I moved it

to my experience section and listed skills that related to the job, I began to get interviews.”

As you prepare for a job interview, Megan suggests curating your most impactful volunteer experiences into stories that highlight your skills and assets.

“I love when candidates can tell a story with their interview responses. This is a great way to demonstrate real-life examples, both personal and professional, during the interview process,” she says. “Again, if it is relevant, incorporate your membership or volunteer experience as an example of how you accomplished something or demonstrated a characteristic or work trait. Not all answers have to be directly related to your professional experience. Just be sure it is relevant and highlights something you are proud of.”

Megan built her first professional career on experiences she had as a Panhellenic recruitment leader her senior year.

“This was by far the most impactful experience I had as an undergraduate and led to a career as a campus-based fraternity/sorority advisor for 15 years,” she says.

Today, Megan manages her own firm, Pendley Pickett Coaching & Consulting, while also continuing to volunteer with Alpha Chi Omega. She has served as an InTune facilitator since 2004, as well as served as a Leadership Academy facilitator and on local advisory boards for more than 10 years.

As sisters embark on their own job hunt, both Lizett and Megan encourage them to value the volunteer work they’ve done with Alpha Chi Omega and in their communities. These accomplishments and contributions are no less valuable simply because they are unpaid.

As Lizett can attest, “Feeling confident in my volunteer roles and the skills they required was a big help.”

LOOKING TO GAIN REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE THROUGH VOLUNTEERING WITH ALPHA CHI OMEGA? COMPLETE YOUR VOLUNTEER INTEREST FORM ON MY.ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG!

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ANNA, BOTTOM RIGHT, WITH THE POL ARIS DAWN CREW DURING A ZERO-GRAVIT Y RESEARCH FLIGHT POL ARIS PROGRAM / JOHN KRAUS

Seeking the Heights Out of This World

BY KARLEE BROWN MOORE (RHO, UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON)

W

hat inspires someone to want to rocket into space exploring realms never achieved by anyone before? For one Alpha Chi Omega sister, an elementary school field trip inspired a dream that set a course for her life and is launching her out of this world!

Raised in Houston, Texas, Anna Wilhem Menon (Iota Lambda, Texas Christian University) had exposure to NASA starting at a young age.

In fourth grade, Anna’s teacher, Alison Smith Balch, daughter of Space Shuttle Challenger pilot Michael J. Smith, took the students on a field trip to NASA that provided an insider’s look into what it was like to work as both an astronaut and in mission control. This experience opened Anna to space in general and “lit a fire in me to contribute to this industry with my career,” she says.

Fast forward to 2023, after working in the space field for more than a decade, Anna is preparing for her first mission into space as part of the Polaris Dawn crew.

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POL ARIS PROGRAM / JOHN KRAUS

CONNECTIONS AND ASPIRATIONS Texas Christian University (TCU) is where Anna was introduced to Alpha Chi Omega. In 2005, Alpha Chi Omega in turn initiated her into its sisterhood and lifelong friendships. For someone who describes herself as “connection-oriented,” Alpha Chi Omega fed Anna’s desire for deeper connection with others, the community and the universe. “It was a life changing place for me, and it made some wonderful impacts on my life,” Anna says.

It was in the supportive environment of this sisterhood where Anna experienced growth as a leader. It was also where she learned how to work with people from a variety of backgrounds and form a team that together created a stronger foundation, accomplished more and moved the organization further forward than could have been done individually. “I have absolutely applied the teamwork lessons I learned at Alpha Chi Omega as I’ve gone on to work at NASA, SpaceX and now on this mission called Polaris Dawn,” Anna says. These principles remain with her in everything she does, from work to community to home.

Participation in philanthropic work is another treasured Alpha Chi memory. “I cherish the philanthropy work we did [in Alpha Chi Omega] and the lessons it taught me and the impact we could make through it,” Anna says.

Giving back has remained important for her throughout her career as she has volunteered around the world

applying her engineering background. “One of my great drivers is to do meaningful work in this world. It doesn’t have to have a certain title and it can look a lot of different ways … it continues to drive my every action,” Anna says. Her commitment to service and meaningful work makes the Polaris Dawn mission’s partnership with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® a special element; the mission is raising awareness and funds for the hospital to help it meet its goal to improve the global survival rates for childhood cancer.

After graduating from TCU with bachelor’s degrees in mathematics and Spanish, Anna continued her education at Duke University, where she received a master’s degree in biomedical engineering. A purpose-driven individual, Anna says her love of space remained strong throughout her schooling, and she sought out internships that fulfilled her yearning to work in the field combined with her strengths in math and engineering.

“One of the beautiful things about space is that it is a diverse field and takes so many different roles,” Anna says.

“There are lots of ways to contribute.” An internship with NASA boosted Anna into her first job after obtaining her master’s degree, and she remained with NASA for seven years as a biomedical flight controller in the International Space Station.

When she moved on to work for SpaceX, she once again landed in mission control and works as a senior space operations engineer. “I am supporting SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft mission control as a mission director and also developing crew operations and procedures that our astronauts perform in orbit,” Anna explains.

And now in addition to her regular day job, she is also preparing for her own journey into space.

THE POLARIS DAWN MISSION SpaceX is gearing up for an exciting mission called Polaris Dawn, set to launch from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida no sooner than 2024. This mission, which ANNA (TOP LEFT) AND THE CREW DURING SPACEWALK TRAINING PHOTO CREDIT: SPACEX

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WHAT WILL ANNA AND THE POLARIS DAWN CREW DO ON THE MISSION? • Conduct 40 scientific studies to shed light on human health in space and on Earth

will serve as both a mission specialist and medical officer, drawing upon her background as an engineer at SpaceX and her biomedical studies. She also received first-hand ER training to fully equip her for this role – although she says she is hoping not to have to apply this training during the mission!

• Complete the first commercial spacewalk using SpaceX-designed extravehicular activity (EVA) spacesuits, a step toward developing spacesuits for extended space missions and living and working in space

This crew brings a lot of knowledge and experience to the table, having been part of previous missions in a variety of ways. In fact, Anna knew all of the crew members even before she was selected for Polaris Dawn. She and Sarah worked together at SpaceX from the start, and she met Jared and Scott during their Inspiration4 mission.

• Test Starlink’s laser-based communication technology, which will be essential for future missions to the moon, Mars and beyond

The crew selection process for the mission was demanding.

Anna and her crewmates had to endure many physical and psychological tests to make sure they could handle the challenges of space travel. Their training included advanced spaceflight techniques, emergency procedures and high-altitude operations. They learned everything about the spacecraft, practiced specific skills needed for the mission, and trained for experiments and the spacewalk.

will last up to five days, is the inaugural chapter of the Polaris Program, which encompasses three spaceflights.

Its overarching aim is to push the boundaries of our knowledge about space and tackle the challenges of living and working in it. Notably, this first mission aims to reach a higher Earth orbit than any previous Dragon mission.

“It is a full team effort to meet all of the mission’s objectives,” Anna says.

Anna won’t be alone on the spacecraft; she’ll have a team of skilled crewmembers with her. Each member of the crew has a diverse, unique background, and all members were selected for their expertise in various scientific and technical fields to fulfill specific roles. The leader of the mission is Jared Isaacman, who’s not only a pilot but also an experienced astronaut. There’s also Scott Poteet, a former U.S. Air Force colonel and previous director of the Inspiration4 mission, the first with all civilian crewmembers. The crew rounds out with Sarah Gillis, a senior space operations engineer who previously ran SpaceX’s astronaut training program.

While the Polaris Dawn crew of four has been training for this mission for more than a year, Anna has been preparing for this journey throughout her career. She 52

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ANNA PERFORMING A DECOMPRESSION SICKNESS RISK CHARACTERIZATION STUDY PHOTO CREDIT: POL ARIS PROGRAM / JOHN KRAUS

And it wasn’t just about physical training; mental preparation was just as important. “We went through training to help prepare our minds for this mission – being in a spacecraft [and] living with three other crew members in this environment. We wanted to learn skills that helped us get comfortable with being uncomfortable,” Anna says.

One way they did this was by learning to skydive together.

They had to memorize every step taught in the U.S. Air Force Academy skydiving program so they could use them quickly under pressure. The training culminated in five solo skydives to reinforce what they learned.

The crew has also gone through a series of trainings centered on soft skills to enhance their focus and execution. While Anna knew all members of the crew prior to joining the team, they have been strengthening their teamwork, focus and execution through joint simulation scenarios. The importance of teamwork is not new to Anna; it is one of the many skills she learned throughout her collegiate experience thanks in large part to her membership and participation in Alpha Chi Omega. “Alpha Chi is such an outstanding example of teamwork,” she says. “It has people who join from all walks of life and work together to move the organization forward.”

ON THE HOME FRONT Anna is not the only member of her household preparing to venture into outer space. Her husband, Anil, is currently an astronaut candidate. “Space runs in the family’s blood,” Anna says. Anna and Anil have two children, James and Grace, and family life keeps them both grounded.

Together, she and her husband work hard to increase their children’s awareness of the world around them by exposing them to new sights and experiences. That is why “memorizing the moments” is one of the many things that excites Anna about being part of the mission crew.

Anna is motivated by being able to gain further perspective and gather lessons that she can share with her family and colleagues, and that can help contribute to future endeavors in human spaceflight. “We cannot control everything in life, but one of the things we can control is our attention to our skills and leaning into those interests in a way that helps serve,” Anna says. She

spent many years trying to put herself in the shoes of the astronauts she has supported, and now she’ll fill those shoes herself. “I want to be quite attentive to it all – how I feel and learn – and apply it to future operations.”

Other personal goals include “supporting my teammates in whatever ways are needed, executing our mission objectives, safety, putting our training into practice and learning as much as possible for our collective spaceflight endeavors,” Anna says. One of the aspects of the mission that excites her is to see Earth from the vantage point of space and gain an expanded perspective on the world and universe.

With the limited time the crew will have in space to achieve the mission objectives, Anna knows the importance of being attentive and making every minute count while she is up there. For example, performing the spacewalk requires a full team effort to cover the technical work to ensure all participants remain safe and achieve the desired results. Conducting the many planned experiments necessitates engagement from the entire team as well. The crew members have been instrumental in determining the research project list. They worked with SpaceX engineers to develop the plans for conducting research, deciding how they will work cross-functionally to complete the tasks within the confined space and time, and training on the protocols in preparation for the mission.

PUSHING THE BOUNDARIES While orbiting in space may not be every sister’s dream, Anna’s story brings to life the way Alpha Chi Omega continues launching women to new and exciting places.

Anna’s journey reflects how she has used the Real. Strong.

Women. Experience throughout her professional career.

The Polaris Dawn mission pushes the boundaries of space exploration, just as Alpha Chi Omega equips members to develop their gifts and talents and explore new horizons.

It is through this network of sisterhood support coupled with opportunities to venture out of our comfort zone and become comfortable with being uncomfortable that Alpha Chi Omega continues encouraging members to truly seek the heights – heights that may even launch them out of this world.

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MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Seeking the Heights of the Alumnae Experience

V

irtual and in-person alumnae chapters across the country expand the Real. Strong. Women.

Experience to sisters in their communities and chapters of initiation. Through genuine connections that span generations, philanthropy and service opportunities, leadership development and so much more, the alumnae chapter experience is changing the lives of Alpha Chi Omega members for the better.

The alumnae chapters featured here make a difference through their intentional efforts to honor our Ritual, support the collegiate experience, serve their communities and deepen the bonds of sisterhood. Read on to hear from alumnae chapter leaders about how they seek the heights!

IMPACT THROUGH COLLEGIATE SUPPORT As told by Epsilon Theta Epsilon president Carol Hepplewhite (Sigma, University of Iowa)

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Epsilon Theta Epsilon began as an alumnae chapter in Iowa City, Iowa.

Members met regularly, hosted philanthropic events and had a longstanding tradition of supporting Sigma collegiate chapter at the University of Iowa. Perhaps the most meaningful moment of this support came [in 2006] when the

Sigma chapter facility was damaged by a tornado and alumnae sisters came together to support the collegiate women and assist with cleanup efforts.

In the spring of 2022, we expanded our reach to sisters and transformed into a blended chapter that now also serves Sigma alumnae anywhere in the country through virtual engagement. The leadership team focused on developing a board structure, recruiting new members and designing a programming year that emphasized member education and social connection, both in person and virtually. Epsilon Theta Epsilon continues to impact Sigma chapter through participation in mock recruitment, collaborative education on local domestic violence awareness initiatives and supporting graduating seniors in their transitions to alumnae life.

Many hands make light work, and our chapter welcomes and values all levels of member participation.

From our newest alumnae just experiencing postcollege life to our 75+ year members and everyone in between, sisters are positively impacted by the connections we build and the efforts we undertake as a team to support Sigma chapter.

IMPACT THROUGH CARE As told by Sigma Sigma vice president Julie Wisbrock (Phi, University of Kansas) Sigma Sigma alumnae chapter’s Caring Committee focuses on reaching out to sisters in the St. Louis, Missouri area. Over the last few years, the chapter has come up with a number of ways to reach out to sisters based on how they would like to be contacted and their current situation. Whether on Zoom, a phone call or a classic handwritten note, we offer ways for sisters to feel cared for.

The Caring Committee also keeps in contact with our sisters in retirement communities.

Many sisters will call or visit each other, and we have even been able to connect some sisters who live in the same SIGMA SIGMA care facility!

For sisters coping with major health issues, we send a card or carnations.

Sigma Sigma also uses its members’ birthday list to recognize sisters in the monthly electronic newsletter, to send birthday cards, and to call them and wish them a happy birthday. During the check-in call, we ask if they need anything or if they have had any changes in their address or email in order to update our member directory. For sisters reaching 90 years and older, the Caring Committee visits them as a “Carnation Angel” and gifts them a red carnation.

Birthday cards, get-well wishes, thinking-of-you messages, notes of encouragement, phone calls to check in and in-person visits all go a long way to building relationships with sisters and helping them (and even their family members) feel supported and thought of. All of these efforts impact our current and future members to feel connected to our sisterhood and to Alpha Chi.

our Ritual with sisters. From the Initiation Ceremony through Hall of Commitment and beyond, we value and appreciate each phase of the Alpha Chi Omega experience.

On May 21, 2023, we held an alumna Initiation Ceremony for our newest alumna sister, Kellyann McBride (Iota Alpha, Alumnae Initiates), followed by a Black-Eyed Susan Day Luncheon, a tradition for Marylanders, at the home of sister Laura Warfield (Alpha Beta, Purdue University). We also host Hall of Commitment for graduating Beta Pi seniors at Washington College. This past April the ceremony was followed by refreshments and chatting with the collegians to hear about their future plans as we welcomed them to young alumnae life.

Traditions are very important to Epsilon Xi Epsilon with events planned around all of the significant Alpha Chi Omega celebrations! On Founders’ Day 2023 we gathered for a domestic violence awareness walk in Baltimore followed by a meal together. For Hera Day, we host a charity luncheon benefitting House of Ruth, a Baltimore organization fighting to end violence against women and their children by addressing the systems that perpetuate it, along with providing victims with the services necessary to rebuild their lives safely and free of fear. During MacDowell Month, we toured the Baltimore Museum of Art and enjoyed brunch and fellowship.

Continued on next page ...

IMPACT THROUGH RITUAL As told by Epsilon Xi Epsilon treasurer Jenna Sublett (Beta Pi, Washington College) Baltimore-based alumnae chapter Epsilon Xi Epsilon takes great pride in conducting and participating in

EPSILON XI EPSILON THE LYRE

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MAKING A DIFFERENCE

These meaningful experiences help sisters feel more connected to each other and to Alpha Chi Omega. We always genuinely enjoy spending time together, but it makes it that much more special knowing that we are carrying on the traditions and Ritual of our Fraternity.

IMPACT THROUGH COMMUNITY As told by Delta Omega Delta president Bronte Joseph (Gamma Chi, Stetson University) Delta Omega Delta alumnae chapter has a powerful connection to our Orange County, California community.

We have deep roots here and build our events in a conscious way to support the community around us and the sisters with us. There is no shortage of ways to have an impact, nor of sisters to help!

With the ocean to the west of us and hills to the east, we are surrounded by nature, of which we want to be good stewards. For several years, we have participated in Surfrider Foundation’s annual clean-ups, removing trash from the beaches we all enjoy. Last year, we opened up the event to our other alumnae chapters in Southern California to join forces and share in service and sisterhood. When the fires came through the hills to the

DELTA OMEGA DELTA

HOW IS YOUR COLLEGIATE OR ALUMNAE CHAPTER SEEKING THE HEIGHTS? SHARE YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS WITH US THROUGH CHAPTER AWARD APPLICATIONS, WHICH CAN BE FOUND AT MY.ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG > RESOURCE CENTER > GENERAL RESOURCES > AWARDS. THEY’RE DUE JANUARY 12, 2024! east, Delta Omega Delta created a program called Hera’s Helpers, a task force to assist sisters whose homes and livelihoods were affected.

The collegians at Epsilon Kappa (California State University, Fullerton) have been more than willing to join our endeavors. During the annual Mission Viejo Purse Palooza, they not only held their own purse drive but even joined us to volunteer at the event. The collegians inspired us to create a scholarship through the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation, and in just three years we were able to collect the $25,000 needed to endow this new scholarship.

Through our connections to each other and our love for the community we share, we have made a difference. Reaching out and tugging on these connections has brought our members closer together.

Want to make a difference in an alumnae chapter? Find one near you by exploring our Chapter Search directory in the My Alpha Chi member portal. Scan the QR code now to begin!

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INDUSTRY INFO

Growing in Leadership oining Alpha Chi Omega offers numerous benefits, including growing leadership skills like Vanessa Hill (Delta Psi, University of California, Santa Barbara) did. Not only did Vanessa serve as her collegiate chapter’s president, but she also extended her leadership as Panhellenic president! Learn about the leadership skills you can develop through Alpha Chi Omega through this Q&A with Vanessa!

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO GET INVOLVED? I remember during my fall semester as a freshman in Alpha Chi Omega seeing all of the seniors doing amazing things – whether it was in Alpha Chi in their leadership roles, being club presidents, having these really outstanding internships and jobs, or applying for master's degrees. I think that really set the tone for me of, “Wow, I'm so inspired by these women, and they're helping me accomplish my goals. Now, I want to be able to provide that for others as well.”

WHAT IS IT LIKE TO BE PANHELLENIC PRESIDENT? The Panhellenic board serves as this all-star team, almost like the best leadership from every chapter. We really tried to utilize the strengths from each chapter to benefit the community and other chapters on campus.

As president, I and the Panhellenic board would meet with chapter presidents, and I took on a role as almost a mentor to them. I also worked closely with other council presidents including Interfraternity Council (IFC) and The United Sorority & Fraternity Council (USFC) on even bigger community issues beyond Panhellenic. We really focused on building community, educational experiences and creating unity between the councils.

WHAT HAVE YOU GAINED FROM YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLES? I’ve never felt more empowered than being on the Panhellenic board. All these smart, passionate women

coming together to better our Panhellenic-wide community above their own chapter inspired me daily. I’m still friends with each of them even after graduation, and without being on the Panhellenic board, I would have never had these cross-chapter friendships!

VANESSA HILL I feel like I have gained confidence, both from the Panhellenic and Alpha Chi community, in moments where I have spoken up and have been supported, or when people rally around what you have to say. I used to have to speak in front of IFC, or a large group of college males, and sometimes that took a lot of courage and confidence. In my post-graduation role at my job now, I’ve received praise for having confidence and speaking up in meetings.

WHAT SKILLS DO YOU THINK ARE IMPORTANT FOR LEADERS? I think empathy is really important. Being a real, strong woman means being an empathetic person and approaching the problems that may come to you as a leader with empathy. I think it goes a long way, especially when dealing with problems but also showing recognition toward others.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR SISTERS WHO HOPE TO BECOME LEADERS? My one piece of advice would be to be a “Yes Girl”. You never know what opportunities can come by just saying “yes,” whether it's a sister asking for help with a sisterhood event or the recruitment chair needing help with a recruitment round. You could gain leadership skills or networking just from being able to help someone out. Just be open-minded to opportunities that come your way!

THE LYRE

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ALUMNA INITIATE SPOTLIGHT

Mother and Daughter, Sisters in the Bond

BY LAURA KNOBEL (IOTA ALPHA, ALUMNAE INITIATES), ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF LIFETIME ENGAGEMENT

W

hen someone says something is “peanuts,” they usually mean it’s a very small thing, perhaps not even worth considering. But it’s the smallest things that can make the biggest impact.

For Alyssa Overmyer (Iota Alpha, Alumnae Initiates), if it weren’t for peanuts, she wouldn’t be an Alpha Chi Omega – or perhaps even be here!

In 1977, Dennis Overmyer stood up in his Alpha Gamma Sigma agricultural fraternity meeting at The Ohio State University and said, “My wife could be walking down 15th Avenue and I would never have the opportunity to meet her.” This persuasive argument was enough to convince his brothers they should host more social activities with the sororities on campus.

Deborah “Debbie” Pfeifer was in one of those sororities – the Alpha Omicron chapter of Alpha Chi Omega, to be exact. At a mixer between the two groups, Debbie spotted Dennis from across the room, and to get his attention, she threw peanuts at him! As Debbie (now Overmyer) says, “The rest is history.”

That history has included marriage, making a home together, a myriad of career changes and raising two children, one of whom is Alyssa, now an accomplished CPA and audit senior manager at a respected firm.

Like her parents and her older brother, Alyssa attended The Ohio State University, but unlike her parents, she never found herself in a Greek organization given her challenging coursework and the many other student activities she enjoyed.

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Yet Alyssa always knew the power of sisterhood as she witnessed her mom’s connections with her Alpha Chi sisters deepen over a lifetime. “I have always admired the bond my mom shares with her sorority sisters. [They] were with her the day she met my dad, they were in their wedding and they have been ever present in my life,” she recalls. “They are each glowing examples of real, strong women.”

One sister in particular to whom Debbie has remained close is Mari-jean Siehl (Alpha Omicron).

“It was Mari-jean who was instrumental in bringing Alyssa into the sisterhood of Alpha Chi Omega,” Debbie shares.

“She had mentioned that the sorority offered to women who never joined a sorority during their undergraduate years the chance to become an Alpha Chi through the National Alumna Initiate Program (NAIP).”

Alyssa knew right away that this was the right path for her. “I have always admired what Alpha Chi stands for,” she says. “To me, Alpha Chi is about not only elevating yourself but the women around you. When I recite The Symphony, I get emotional. The words are so beautiful and relevant to everyday life.”

Alyssa also has a servant’s heart and resonated with Alpha Chi’s philanthropic endeavors. She has represented her firm for the past eight years as a 50-mile bike rider for Pelotonia, which

ALYSSA AT THE ALPHA OMICRON CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

became sisters in the Bond. It was a dream fulfilled.”

Alyssa remembers the ceremony vividly. “During initiation, I was taking it all in … I wanted to be as present as possible and not miss a thing,” she says. “It was so special to have my mom and Mari-jean [be] part of the ceremony.”

True to form, Alyssa has wasted no time after initiation expanding her passion for making a difference to our sisterhood and the alumnae experience.

“Alyssa has totally embraced the mantra of membership in Alpha Chi Omega being a lifelong commitment,” says Debbie.

(LEFT TO RIGHT) DEBBIE, ALYSSA AND MARI-JEAN AT ALYSSA’S INITIATION

raises funds for cancer research; has run several marathons to benefit different charities; serves as a national facilitator for her firm’s training program; and has even donated her hair to the Wigs for Kids organization.

“Making a difference is my main goal in life. I try to make a difference every day,” Alyssa says.

Debbie sees this effort from her daughter and says, “It is this unselfish giving of herself that tugs at my heart strings.

I couldn't be prouder of Alyssa. She is a beautiful young woman with a kind heart and generous spirit.”

Mari-jean agreed and eagerly got the NAIP process rolling for Alyssa. In addition to Mari-jean and Debbie, three other Alpha Omicron sisters served as Alyssa’s sponsors for membership. After an application and interview process with the NAIP panel, Alyssa completed her new member education and was ready to experience our Ritual.

On March 24, 2023, Alyssa was initiated into Alpha Chi Omega with the collegiate new member class at Alpha Omicron. Recalls Debbie, “I had the honor and privilege to pin Alyssa with Mari-jean’s golden lyre badge. That day Lyss and I became more than mother and daughter, we

Adds Alyssa, “I think there is a misconception that joining a sorority is only for when you are in college … The fact that Alpha Chi offers an alumna initiate program is great because it demonstrates that being in a sorority is for a lifetime. Never pass up an opportunity to join in. I think you will find you will be glad you did.”

And join in, she did. After attending the Alpha Omicron centennial celebration with her mom, Alyssa was elected vice president of membership for Alpha Iota Alpha alumnae chapter in Columbus, Ohio, and is excited to help grow the chapter and connect with even more sisters.

In the meantime, Debbie is excited to deepen her sisterly connection to her daughter. “Future plans include Alyssa, Mari-jean and I traveling to Indianapolis next July for convention,” she says. On how Alyssa will grow through alumna membership, Debbie adds, “I can't wait to see how the newest carnation in our Alpha Chi bouquet continues to bloom.”

IS THERE AN OUTSTANDING WOMAN IN YOUR LIFE YOU’D LIKE TO CALL A SISTER? SPONSOR HER FOR ALPHA CHI OMEGA MEMBERSHIP THROUGH THE NATIONAL ALUMNA INITIATE PROGRAM! SCAN THE QR CODE TO SUBMIT YOUR SPONSORSHIP FORM TODAY.

THE LYRE

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ACCOMPLISHED ALUMNA

Unexpected Adventures

BY LINDSAY DUBE (GAMMA RHO, TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY)

I

f you had asked me what I would be doing my senior semester of undergrad, a 170-mile bikepacking trip over spring break would not have made the list of possibilities. But nevertheless, there I was – on a six-day trip on the Monumental Loop in southern New Mexico. In a class called Adventure Media at Texas Tech University, I was camping under the stars in the desert, riding long miles over mountain ranges, and documenting the entire experience through a camera lens to turn into a documentary.

Much like my adventure into bike-packing, finding the sisterhood of Alpha Chi Omega was not something that I ever pictured when I started college. No one in my family had ever been a part of Greek life, and none of my high school friends were planning on participating.

I came to Texas Tech in the fall of 2019 eager to soak up any experience I could. Heavily involved in yearbook and journalism in high school, I quickly found a job working for our college yearbook, La Ventana, as the social media editor. Midway through my first semester, I was assigned a story about Bid Day. This was my first exposure to Greek life at Texas Tech. It was my job to interview all kinds of women involved in Panhellenic sororities about their Bid Day experiences. I was quickly fascinated and dove into a YouTube rabbit hole about all things Greek life and learned everything I could about the process. When registration finally opened for fall 2020 recruitment, I was PNM #35.

Like the rest of the world, I never imagined the COVID-19 pandemic and its impacts on everything.

Recruitment was fully transformed into a virtual experience, but in the end, I found my home at Alpha Chi Omega! Like many of my sisters, I could feel the authenticity and sincereness when talking to older members about their experiences. I never had to question if I was welcomed or accepted for who I was at Alpha Chi Omega.

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LINDSAY DUBE DURING HER TREK PHOTO CREDIT: JEROD FOSTER

I don’t have any biological sisters, just a younger brother who means the world to me. Nevertheless, I found true sisterhood in the relationships I built with my Alpha Chi Omega sisters – in my Greek family, all my roommates in the house we lovingly called the “A Chi Home,” the executive board I served Gamma Rho with and every other sister who touched my life.

The same year I joined the sisterhood of Alpha Chi Omega, I was also officially diagnosed with muscular dystrophy – specifically facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD). I say “officially” only because this did not come as a total surprise. My father, uncle and grandmother are all affected by this disease, so I always knew the possibility I would also have it.

I won't bore you with all the details, but FSHD is a genetic neuromuscular disease that is degenerative and currently incurable. Essentially, when my muscles break down, there is no getting them back. Eventually it will likely affect my mobility, strength and appearance. While I was prepared for the diagnosis, it doesn't make the reality any easier – it’s hard knowing that my body will eventually betray me.

So with my diagnosis in mind, why in the world would I sign up for one of the most physically demanding classes that Texas Tech offers in my last semester of undergrad?

Simple. Why not?

Adventure Media is a one-of-a-kind experiential learning opportunity that's focused on audio visual production, creativity and storytelling all while engaging in challenging outdoor recreation. Bike-packing, specifically, is an activity like hiking and camping, but instead of carrying a large pack, everything you need is strapped to your bike. It’s tempting to think this might be easy … I mean, it’s just riding a bike. But that couldn’t be farther from the truth.

This class prepared me to travel 170 miles by bike over challenging terrain. I am not exaggerating when I say we pushed up steep mountain passes, rocky remote trails and ankle-deep sandy paths on our journey along the Monumental Loop. That trek was one of the hardest physical and mental challenges I have ever faced, but also the most rewarding. I was able to discover parts of myself I didn’t know existed and focus my diagnosis into gratitude for the body I have now.

I am absolutely determined not to let FSHD stop me from living life to the fullest. The way I see it, FSHD is

LINDSAY DUBE BIKE-PACKING PHOTO CREDIT: COLTON ROHRBACK

sticking around no matter what I do – so I might as well surround it with as much joy, adventure and laughter as I can manage. Truthfully, most of my friends and sisters didn't even know about my diagnosis until recently.

Not because I was ashamed or sad to talk about it, but because I really believe that the rest of my story is so much more interesting.

Because of my diagnosis and the sisterhood I found in Alpha Chi, very quickly being a real, strong woman was something I took a lot of pride in. For me it means a lot of things: being able to persevere, being kind, being a good sister, being a good human and supporting things I believe in. It became personal.

While I recognize that my journey through life is really just getting started, I have learned that the best adventures typically come from unexpected places.

Whether it's biking through tough trails or finding sisters at Alpha Chi Omega, I've learned that strength isn't solely determined by physical ability.

LINDSAY (FIRST ROW, SECOND FROM RIGHT) WITH HER FELLOW CHAPTER EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS

My hope is that others struggling with the unchangeable or uncontrollable parts of life know that they are stronger than their circumstances. We are real, strong women. It is important to do hard things. You only get one chance at creating an extraordinary life, so take it!

THE LYRE

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ARCHIVES

THEN AND NOW

1955

Alpha Chi Omega Chapter Consultants Have you ever thought about what Alpha Chi Omega was doing 10, 20, 50 years ago? How have things changed for our members and organization?

How have they stayed the same? Taken from previous Lyre magazines, the “Then and Now” series offers a glimpse into what life was like for Alpha Chi Omegas throughout history.

The chapter consultant program is an unparalleled professional opportunity for our real, strong women looking to make Alpha Chi Omega a part of their careers and gain unique experience directly relevant to their future endeavors. Each year, the consultants — representing chapters from across the country — make an immediate and lasting impact on our collegiate chapters.

What started with a single consultant has grown into a large and impactful part of the Alpha Chi Omega experience.

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BY SALLY CUTLER (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), HISTORIAN AND ARCHIVIST, AND MICHELLE CRITCHFIELD (OMICRON, BAKER UNIVERSITY), ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF COLLEGIATE GROWTH

S

ince 1955, Alpha Chi Omega has employed consultants to provide on-site coaching and support to our collegiate chapters.

The program began with one consultant, Charlene Moore (Chi, Oregon State University), after the hiring was approved by the National Council. At the time the position was titled “traveling secretary.”

According to the December 1955 issue of The Lyre (pictured), “Those who can qualify will have a chance to travel, to get acquainted with various colleges or universities, the opportunity to work with college girls, plus the satisfaction of being of service to the Fraternity.”

According to Burnette Grimes Jones (Omega, Washington State University), national collegiate vice president at the time, “A traveling secretary is a counsellor and friend.

She can stay with a chapter for a much longer period than a visiting officer and therefore is not only able to give helpful ideas but can stay long enough to see them integrated in the chapter. She is young enough to be an understanding friend to every girl in the chapter. She can see the collegiate viewpoint as well as the Fraternity national picture.”

During her visits, some of which lasted as long as six weeks, Charlene focused on scholarship, recruitment support and new member programming. Job requirements for the position included campus and chapter leadership, academic excellence, and strong recommendations from university leaders and chapter advisors. Faythe Luther Vorderstrasse (Chi, Oregon State University) carried the program forward the next year, visiting 78 collegiate chapters.

2023

T

oday, Alpha Chi Omega has a team of chapter consultants, which varies in size each year depending on the needs of the organization. The consultant team for the 2023-24 academic year consists of 16 recent graduates. Consultants come from a variety of chapters across the country and join the team with leadership experiences ranging from chapter presidents to non-executive board officers, convention pages and campus leaders.

Returning consultant Allison Chambers (Epsilon Kappa, California State University, Fullerton) adds, “Spending the last year and a half as a resident consultant for Alpha Chi Omega has given me the opportunity to develop professional skills while working within a supportive community of sisters. The consultant role teaches me every day how to make vital connections with the people I work with and how to find balance in my own life. Being a consultant has provided me with more growth in just over a year than I can imagine being able to achieve in any other job!”

Interested in serving as a chapter consultant or know of someone who would be a great candidate? Contact Taylor Hill, associate director of collegiate experience, at thill@ alphachiomega.org to share your interest and learn more about this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

Chapter consultants have one of two assignments — resident or traveler. Resident consultants are located near a college or university to provide hands-on support for a chapter in that area. Chapters that have resident consultants include those undergoing establishment, newer chapters within the new chapter development program or designated established chapters. The remaining established chapters are supported by a traveling consultant. Traveling consultants have a portfolio of several chapters which receive support virtually or through in-person visits, lasting from a few days to a few weeks. Consultants today support chapters in all operational areas, including recruitment and retention, leadership development, accountability and marketing.

Chapter consultants are hired on an annual basis and typically serve in their roles for one or two years. Current traveling consultant Tory Wiley (Theta Iota, Baylor University) has had a great experience since joining the team in June. Tory shares, “Serving as a chapter consultant enriches my ‘why Alpha Chi’ every day.

Seeing and engaging in the bond of Alpha Chi Omega across the country has shown me the vast impact this organization makes on women nationally. Working in this role has refined my leadership ability, confidence and professionalism more than I ever imagined.”

2023-24 CHAPTER CONSULTANTS

ALPHA CHI OMEGA CONSULTANT FACTS • Since 1955, there have been more than 420 chapter consultants.

• The largest consultant class was in 2015-16 with 24 members.

• This academic year, four chapters have resident consultants.

• The consultant application opens each fall for the following academic year.

THE LYRE

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LIFE

Reunite and Reconnect

BY LAURA KNOBEL (IOTA ALPHA, ALUMNAE INITIATES), ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF LIFETIME ENGAGEMENT

group of sisters simply wants a reason to get together, the effort to plan a reunion is always worth it to reignite the bonds of sisterhood after time apart.

sk any Alpha Chi from the DePauw University class of 1969 how that group has stayed so close post-graduation, and she will tell you about their class newsletter. Created on a whim in 1970 and then repeated every year without fail, its result has been a steadfast connection that has strengthened with the passage of time. A friendship begun during the days of co-ed hours, fraternity serenades, family-style dinners and serious bridge games is deeper and more meaning ful today than any could have imagined.

Although they were in different new member classes, the Alpha Chis who graduated from DePauw in 1969 were determined to maintain those bonds and have done so successfully for more than half a century. Starting with the class newsletter, extending to DePauw class reunions every five years and continuing with regular meetups in between, sisters continue making memories in each of the small moments they share.

A

So began the email from Linda Budelsky when she wrote to Alpha Chi Omega headquarters to share a recent photo of 15 members of her Alpha chapter graduating class. What was intended as a brief update for The Lyre opened the door to a tale of meaningful friendships and the power of intentional gathering.

SMALL MOMENTS, BIG MEMORIES Each day collegiate chapter members share laughs over meals, stay up late preparing for chapter events, spend long hours studying and so much more together. It is in the smallest of moments that the most unforgettable memories are made.

Lisa’s fellow 1969 graduate Barbara Heisel Manning recalls her own small moments with sisters. “In those days we had ‘hours’ after which we had to be safely ensconced in the house. We bonded over candlelight ceremonies, after-hours pizza, gabbing about the new guy with whom we had just been on a ‘Coke date’ and setting our hair with orange juice can rollers.”

But after graduation, post-college life without your sisters nearby at all times can be a difficult adjustment.

Whether a chapter is celebrating a centennial, a class of sisters is reaching a membership milestone year or a 64

ALPHA CHI OMEGA

“My favorite times during our reunions are simply sitting around and talking — in a group or with individuals,” says Barbara White Parker. “Even at this most recent time in Florida, I learned new things about sisters I’ve known for 58 years.

Such a joy!”

Of course, every family has at least one story that becomes dinner table fodder for all time, and this group of sisters is no exception.

“When we were about 68 years old and gathered at a resort, the balconies of our rooms were huge,” Barbara M. recalls.

“Seventeen of us were out on the balcony gabbing at around 9 or 10 p.m. and

THE 1969 ALPHA GRADUATES COUNT AMONG THEIR RANKS ELIZABETH “BETSY” CL ARK SWANK, GREAT-GRANDDAUGHTER OF ALPHA CHI OMEGA FOUNDER OLIVE BURNETT CL ARK, “A FACT WHICH OUR GROUP FINDS ENDLESSLY MEANINGFUL, FASCINATING AND DELIGHTFUL!” SHARES LISA. BETSY IS PICTURED WITH A PHOTO OF OLIVE FROM THE 1965 NEW MEMBER EDUCATION BOOK.

THE 1980-84 AND 1985-90 NEWSLETTER CLIPS CONTAIN UPDATES FROM SISTERS LIVING COAST TO COAST AND IN THE PHILIPPINES, SOUTH KOREA AND BRAZIL. IN RECOUNTING THE WOMEN’S 10 TH ANNIVERSARY REUNION, ONE SISTER WROTE, “WHO COULD WISH IN HER WILDEST DREAMS FOR THE FRIENDSHIP AND THE LOVE THAT WAS FORMED AND SHARED IN OUR BEAUTIFUL HOME ON SEMINARY STREET?”

there was a knock on the door. When a couple of us went to answer it, there was a security guard with the most surprised look on his face. He looked down at his notes and back up at our gray hair and sheepishly said he had received a noise complaint from the guys next door who had a 6 a.m. tee time and wanted to sleep. We’ve dined out on that story a bunch!”

FIRST STEPS The unique bonds formed through a shared chapter experience are irreplicable and irreplaceable. And they can be maintained if sisters work together to coordinate communication and initiate plans for a virtual or inperson gathering. Like the sisters from Alpha chapter, consider reaching out to your new member class, graduating class or both! Perhaps you will decide to start a newsletter as they did, and it will be the first of many years of staying in touch.

Paula Ilardo agrees that the Alpha group’s newsletter was the key to keeping sisters connected. “Our first jobs, first homes, first marriages, birth of our children, job moves, world travels, divorces, new marriages, loss of parents, birth of grandchildren, retirement and loss of spouses …

we were able to celebrate or mourn it all together – but from afar,” she says.

Barbara P. agrees and recalls of the newsletter, “It started out as a mailing with 25 letters in a packet. Thank goodness we have morphed into modern technology; we now do it online!” She adds, “Communication is the essence of any good relationship, I think, and that is what has made our bond so IF YOU FIND OUT solid.”

To connect with sisters, log in to My Alpha Chi and click on Directories and then Member Search. Use the filters to search based on chapter, first or last name and even initiated last name. Contact lifetimeengagement@ alphachiomega.org for larger member lists.

THAT A SISTER HAS A NEW ADDRESS OR CONTACT INFORMATION, EMAIL AXOINFO@ ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG OR HAVE HER LOG IN TO MY ALPHA CHI AND UPDATE HER MEMBER PROFILE. SCAN THE QR CODE TO UPDATE YOUR INFO SO SISTERS CAN FIND YOU!

THE LYRE

65

LIFE 1965

1989

2019

MAKING IT HAPPEN As for planning an in-person meetup, perhaps Founders’ Day, Hera Day, Alpha Chi Night Out, or a campus event like homecoming or class reunion becomes the catalyst for getting together. Start with brunch or dinner and share memories of your time together on campus. Ask those in attendance who they are still in touch with from your generation of sisters to expand your reach.

Paula stepped up as event organizer for the Alpha chapter graduates and offers planning advice to sisters hoping to transform casual connections into a formal reunion. “Give everyone choices of locations to vote on that are centrally located or easy to reach by air with easy transportation to the place where you are staying. Next, determine if they want to stay by themselves or with roommates. If they want roommates, each could choose their roommate, or the organizer could choose them randomly. Random may result in new, closer friendships being formed at the reunion!”

Paula continues, “Then, decide what type of [accommodations] you want … Smaller classes may find a VRBO the perfect solution. We have tried casual resorts where we stayed for the entire visit as well as hotels in big cities where we visited attractions. We also found it very important to choose a resort/hotel where one of your rooms could be big enough to serve as a hospitality suite 66

ALPHA CHI OMEGA

1999

2023

where everyone can meet frequently. That’s where the fun happens!”

If someone can’t attend in person, consider adding a virtual component so she doesn’t miss out. As Barbara M. shares of their 2023 reunion, “We FaceTimed with the three sisters who couldn’t make it, which added to the fun and made them feel like they were with us.”

For Paula, all of the effort of planning a reunion is worth it. “Being the reunion organizer is work, but it is very satisfying in the end when you see everyone hugging, talking and sharing pictures on their phones!” she shares.

When asked what she would say to sisters considering a reunion, Barbara M. says, “I would wish that their reunion could be one-tenth as amazing as ours have been and tell them to go for it.” Lisa agrees and feels that reunions can offer Alpha Chi Omegas a new perspective on the sisterhood we share. She says, “As sisters for almost 60 years, the bond we spoke of so earnestly as undergraduates in the 1960s, we now truly understand.”

WANT TO PL AN YOUR OWN REUNION WITH SISTERS? VISIT THE RESOURCE CENTER IN MY ALPHA CHI AND SEARCH “REUNIONS” FOR A GUIDE ON GETTING STARTED. EMAIL LIFEETIMEENGAGEMENT@ ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG IF YOU NEED FURTHER SUPPORT. STAFF IS HERE TO HELP!

BUSINESS

Have You Considered Board Service?

S

ome sisters have been waiting for board service recommendations to open; others are just learning about the opportunity now! Either way, we invite members to explore volunteering on an Alpha Chi Omega national board as a way to give back to our sisterhood. Recommendations are now being accepted!

manager, at ewest@alphachiomega.org to arrange a call with a board member.

The Alpha Chi Omega Enterprise is led by three boards of alumnae volunteers – the Fraternity National Council, the Foundation Board of Trustees and the National Housing Corporation Board of Directors. Each year depending on terms, some of the boards request recommendations for new volunteers. While each board governs a different entity with a specific focus area, all boards share the need for strategic thinkers and visionary leaders.

If you know an alumna sister who can make a difference as a national-level volunteer, please continue reading to learn about the specific duties of each board and of the National Nominating Committee. We also highly encourage self-recommendations! Thank you for considering these impactful volunteer opportunities.

The following board positions are open at this time for terms beginning August 1, 2024: • One National Council president • Five National Council vice presidents • Four Foundation trustees • Four National Housing Corporation directors While previous volunteer experience with Alpha Chi Omega is a benefit, it is not required, and expertise from professional roles, leadership in other organizations and other personal experiences are valuable. Alpha Chi Omega needs candidates who are dedicated to the Real. Strong. Women. Experience and skilled in board governance and strategic planning. The organization is seeking more alumnae members to aspire for board service with the pool of candidates representing the diversity of our members and our campuses.

Our current board members are always happy to share about their experience with prospective candidates and answer questions. Please email Erin West, executive

In addition to board service, Alpha Chi Omega is also seeking qualified alumnae to serve on the National Nominating Committee (NNC) and help identify the future leaders of the organization.

BOARD AND NNC ELECTION TIMELINE February 15, 2024: Deadline to submit a recommendation for all roles March 15, 2024: Deadline to submit materials to be considered a candidate for all roles March-May, 2024: Recommendations and candidate information reviewed; interviews held; candidates selected for the Foundation and NHC May 13, 2024: National Council and NNC slates announced June 2, 2024: National Council and NNC petition deadline June 12, 2024: National Council and NNC materials sent to voting delegates for election at the 2024 National Convention August 1, 2024: Terms begin for all roles

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R E C O M M E N D O U R 2024-26

National Council SHAPE ALPHA CHI OMEGA’S FUTURE

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eave a lasting mark on Alpha Chi Omega.

The National Council is the visionary and strategic leadership of Alpha Chi Omega, and we are looking to you to help us identify the real, strong women whose vision, passion and dedication will shape our Fraternity’s future. Your voice matters.

When you recommend sisters – or yourself – for the National Council, you share in the privilege and the responsibility of ensuring Alpha Chi Omega continues to shape the future through powerful, transformative and everlasting connections.

2022-24 NATIONAL NOMINATING COMMITTEE Viancca Burger Williams, PhD (Gamma Pi, University of Tampa), Chair Mary Baker (Delta Mu, University of Massachusetts), Chair-Elect Kristin Himsel (Alpha, DePauw University), Alumna Member Kelly Kilgour (Kappa Nu, Carnegie Mellon University), Alumna Member

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

Maria Robinson (Epsilon Theta, California State University, Sacramento), Alumna Member

We’re looking for Alpha Chi Omega sisters who embody:

Yahaira Trejo (Kappa Rho, University of North Carolina at Charlotte), Collegiate Member

• Strategic thinking and strong leadership skills • A deep understanding of higher education and Panhellenic trends • Prior experience with governing boards • Expertise in organizational development, change management, enterprise models and financial strategies • A dedication to equity and inclusion, reflecting the diversity of our membership in culture, age, ethnicity, race, sexual orientation and lived experiences • A passionate commitment to Alpha Chi Omega

Mary Pat Lambke (Beta Epsilon, Michigan State University), Alternate Alumna Member Quinna Sypher (Beta Chi, Willamette University), Alternate Collegiate Member

NATIONAL COUNCIL OVERVIEW The National Council consists of a National President and five national vice presidents. These six women are the visionaries, leaders and ambassadors of Alpha Chi Omega’s past, present and future. They direct Alpha Chi Omega Fraternity, Inc., always mindful of the organization’s strategic plan. The real, strong women who serve on the National Council are initiates of chapters across the country and reflect different professions, backgrounds and demographics.

QUALIFICATIONS Qualified candidates should be alumnae members in good standing and possess leadership experience and expertise beneficial to our Fraternity, as stated above.

SEEKING REAL, STRONG WOMEN FOR SERVICE!

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To serve as National President, candidates must have current or previous National Council service.

TIPS TO ELEVATE YOUR RECOMMENDATION

Position descriptions can be found by scanning the QR code below. For additional insights into qualities and skill sets needed in National Council members, review the Strategic Plan: Beyond 2020 and Alpha Chi Omega’s governing documents on the Resource Center at www. my.alphachiomega.org.

1. K now the requirements. Read the National Council position description.

PROCESS • Recommendations are due February 15, 2024.

• Potential candidates will be contacted to gauge interest and willingness to move forward.

• Each potential candidate will be sent a Prospective Candidate Questionnaire (PCQ ), to be completed and returned to the National Nominating Committee (NNC) by March 15, 2024. Only those who have completed a PCQ will be considered official candidates, which includes any member who opts to petition the slate.

• Candidates who submit a completed PCQ will undergo a thorough and thoughtful assessment by the NNC of their unique qualities and expertise regarding Alpha Chi Omega’s key issues, challenges and opportunities.

• The NNC will select a slate of candidates to form the National Council and officially announce it to the membership no later than May 13, 2024.

• Our Articles of Incorporation provide a petition process for those candidates not slated. A petition for nomination to the National Council, signed by the petitioner, shall be filed with the NNC chair in accordance with Fraternity policies no later than June 2, 2024.

• Voting delegates will receive one distribution of information and biographies of slated and petitioning candidates no later than June 12, 2024.

• Voting will occur at the 2024 National Convention.

Nominations may not be made from the floor unless a vacancy occurs on the slate during the election. National Council members will be elected by a majority of the votes from voting delegates.

2. U nderstand Alpha Chi Omega’s goals. Explore the Strategic Plan: Beyond 2020.

3. A ssess qualifications. Which sisters do you believe should lead the Fraternity?

4. H ave a conversation. Reach out to sisters who you think would make exceptional candidates.

5. R ecommend multiple sisters. Do not limit yourself to just one recommendation; recommend anyone you think belongs on the National Council.

6. R ecommend yourself. Self-recommendations are a fantastic opportunity for personal and professional growth as you explore volunteer opportunities.

SUBMIT YOUR RECOMMENDATIONS TODAY AND BE PART OF SHAPING ALPHA CHI OMEGA’S FUTURE! DATES TO REMEMBER February 15, 2024: Recommendations can be submitted by scanning the QR code or visiting www.alphachiomega.org/ volunteeropportunities and scrolling down to the National Leadership section.

March 15, 2024: Potential candidate questionnaire (PCQ ) deadline May 13, 2024: Slated candidates announced to membership June 2, 2024: Petition deadline June 12, 2024: One distribution of all candidates (slated and petitioners) to voting delegates July 12, 2024: National Convention begins August 1, 2024: Term of service begins Email nncaxo@gmail.com with any questions!

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N O W S E E K I N G R E C O M M E N D AT I O N S F O R T H E 2024-26

National Nominating Commitee

DEAR ALPHA CHI OMEGA SISTERS, The National Council is seeking members to serve on Alpha Chi Omega’s 2024-26 National Nominating Committee (NNC). The NNC is charged with identifying women who have the vision, skills and professional experience to serve as the elected board leadership of Alpha Chi Omega on the 2026-28 National Council.

In accordance with Fraternity policies, the National Council will prepare a slate of candidates to be voted on by delegates at the 2024 National Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana. The slate will consist of four alumnae members (a chair-elect and three alumnae members) and one alternate alumna member; the 2024-26 chair was elected on the previous slate as the chair-elect role and is not up for election this year. In preparing the slate, the National Council attempts to assemble a team of women who represent the diversity of our membership and are knowledgeable about important issues of the Fraternity as well as its governance structure.

QUALIFICATIONS Recommended individuals should be Alpha Chi Omega alumnae in good standing with an understanding of board governance and the National Fraternity as well as the ability to analyze the needs of the Fraternity and qualifications of prospective candidates. Experience recruiting board members for nonprofit organizations or prior participation in a confidential nomination and slating process is valuable experience for this committee.

NNC members agree to maintain strict confidentiality regarding prospective nominees and the deliberations of the committee and shall have no conflicts of interest with the National Fraternity, including potential for personal financial gain from National Council decisions.

A candidate for the NNC may not, at any point during the NNC term to which she is elected, serve on any Alpha Chi Omega corporation board or hold any office which makes her a voting delegate at the 2026 National Convention (or the 2028 National Convention for the chair-elect), including being a Past National President. Members of the 2024-26 NNC agree not to be candidates for the 2026-28 National Council (or the 2028-30 National Council for the chair-elect).

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WHAT IS THE TERM OF OFFICE? Alumnae members: two years (August 1, 2024 - July 31, 2026) Chair-elect: four years (August 1, 2024 - July 31, 2028)

ACCOUNTABILITY/WORKING RELATIONSHIP The NNC is responsible to the Fraternity membership via the national convention delegates. The staff liaison to the NNC is the chief executive officer.

SUBMIT RECOMMENDATIONS BY: Filling out the form available by scanning the QR code or visiting www.alphachiomega.org/ volunteeropportunities and scrolling down to the National Leadership section

HOW CAN I BE CONSIDERED? HOW CAN I RECOMMEND A SISTER? To recommend qualified and respected sisters to serve on the 202426 NNC, complete the recommendation form, now available on the Alpha Chi Omega website’s “Volunteer Opportunities” page, no later than February 15, 2024. Self-recommendations are welcomed and encouraged. Members reflecting the diversity of the Alpha Chi Omega membership are specifically encouraged to submit a recommendation.

All recommended sisters will be asked to complete a candidate information form by March 15 in order to be considered a candidate for the National Nominating Committee.

The National Council depends on you to recommend qualified and respected sisters to serve on the next NNC. Thank you for your interest and participation in the process of selecting Alpha Chi Omega’s future leaders!

DATES TO REMEMBER: February 15, 2024: Deadline to submit a recommendation March 15, 2024: Deadline to submit materials to be considered a candidate May 13, 2024: Slate announced June 2, 2024: Petition deadline

Loyally, June 12, 2024: Materials sent to voting delegates July 12, 2024: 2024 National Convention begins Lynne Herndon National President

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NOW SEEKING RECOMMENDATIONS FOR

Foundation Board Service Are you passionate about Alpha Chi Omega?

Do you value strategic thinking and guidance?

Do you have experience in any of the following?

• Strategic planning • Fundraising leadership • Professional areas (academia, finance, human resources, law, sales, etc.)

• Nonprofit board governance Do you embrace women’s empowerment, equity and inclusivity?

Are you interested in volunteering and giving back to Alpha Chi Omega?

THE ALPHA CHI OMEGA FOUNDATION BOARD OF TRUSTEES IS LOOKING FOR YOU! As one of the boards comprising the national leadership of Alpha Chi Omega, the BOT is a group of alumnae focused on continuing the future of Alpha Chi Omega. Coming from across the country, trustees vary in age and experience in order to represent our members. The BOT is seeking diverse women of all ages, ethnicities, races and societal backgrounds who have the experience and passion to help shape the future of the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation. The Foundation’s mission states: The Alpha Chi Omega Foundation strives to realize and sustain the educational and philanthropic values of Alpha Chi Omega through successful fundraising and stewardship. Generous gifts from our members and friends enhance the Real. Strong. Women.

Experience and empower our members to impact their communities and world positively.

With virtual monthly meetings, the Foundation Board of Trustees is responsible for the strategic guidance of our professional staff team as well as our mutual fundraising and stewardship efforts. Together, they provide financial resources to our Fraternity programs that comprise the Real. Strong. Women. Experience, including grants and scholarships. For a detailed description of trustee responsibilities, please visit www.alphachiomega.org/volunteeropportunities.

RECOMMENDATIONS ARE NOW BEING ACCEPTED! Candidates will be screened for expertise in the areas of board governance, finance, fundraising and leadership, as well as matched to the current needs of the board. Diversity of board members is a key priority.

SUBMIT RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE FOUNDATION BOARD OF TRUSTEES AND THE NHC BOARD OF DIRECTORS BY: Scanning the QR code or visiting www.alphachiomega.org/volunteeropportunities and scrolling down to the National Leadership section. Self-recommendations are encouraged! Email ewest@alphachiomega.org with any questions.

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NOW SEEKING RECOMMENDATIONS FOR

NHC Board Service If you have been looking for a way to serve Alpha Chi Omega and believe you have the leadership and vision that could shape Alpha Chi Omega’s future, the National Housing Corporation (NHC) would love to learn more about you. One of the boards that makes up the national leadership of our sisterhood, the NHC Board of Directors is seeking members to serve our sisterhood in a focused, challenging, rewarding and fun way.

IF YOU ANSWER "YES" TO ANY OF THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS, PLEASE CONSIDER NHC BOARD SERVICE! • Do you have experience in strategic planning and financial oversight?

• Have you served on nonprofit boards and have expertise in board, organizational, policy and resource development?

• Do you understand the needs of today’s collegiate members?

• Do you have the business acumen and analytical skills to think creatively and address challenges and opportunities?

• Do you have a general understanding of nonprofit governance and believe in the fundamental partnership between board and staff?

• Are you driven by mission, values and policies?

• Do project management, organizational behavior, legal and risk exposure fall into your wheelhouse of transferrable skills?

• Do you have a career in finance, banking, property management, law or real estate? (These areas can be helpful but are not mandatory.)

The all-volunteer NHC Board of Directors meets virtually monthly in partnership with our staff to achieve the NHC’s mission – to enhance the Real. Strong. Women. Experience by providing safe and competitive facilities where members connect, lead, grow and serve – and contributes to the overall success of the Alpha Chi Omega Enterprise. Prior Alpha Chi Omega volunteer experience is not required. For a detailed description of director responsibilities, please visit www.alphachiomega.org/volunteeropportunities.

We are committed to enhancing and broadening the NHC’s board membership and cultivating an inclusive environment valuing all involved. We seek cultural, racial, professional and geographical diversity for the board. We believe the success of the NHC will depend on having the right blend of skill sets, expertise, network connections, diverse perspectives and spheres of influence across the board. With a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, we encourage all interested members to consider serving.

If you believe you have the vision, skills and talent to further the NHC’s mission, submit a recommendation now!

DATES TO REMEMBER: February 15, 2024: Recommendations due March 15, 2024: Candidate materials due

March-May 2024: Recommendations and candidate materials reviewed; candidates interviewed; board members elected

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VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

Meghan Malloy SIGMA (UNIVERSIT Y OF IOWA)

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ead about the experience of Meghan Malloy, who served as a Social Justice Institute facilitator this year. She also serves on the board for two local organizations, leading one as chairperson. If you’re inspired to get involved, learn more about volunteering with Alpha Chi Omega below!

WHAT DOES ALPHA CHI MEAN TO YOU? Alpha Chi Omega means sisterhood, a space to try new things with encouragement and support, and a network to help me reach my greatest potential. Paying it forward to the next generation of sisters is the best way to show my appreciation for everything Alpha Chi Omega has given me so far on my own life journey!

WHAT DID YOU LEARN FROM YOUR EXPERIENCE AS A SOCIAL JUSTICE INSTITUTE FACILITATOR? I was thrilled Alpha Chi Omega launched this initiative this year. Learning in the social justice sphere is a lifelong pursuit. There was so much to learn from other sisters’ lived experiences, and being part of an initiative that held space for those experiences was a good reminder for me on how to best be an ally and practices I can incorporate to increase equity in my community.

HOW DO YOU BALANCE VOLUNTEERING AND YOUR CAREER AND FAMILY PRIORITIES? I am probably unique in that my volunteering led to my current career. From 2021 to October 2022, I was on the Friends of Iowa CASA and Iowa Citizen Foster Care Review Boards Board of Directors. Since 2014, I had been in different roles in the child welfare advocacy sphere, so when the development director position became open, I jumped at the opportunity. Also, the current board president is a fellow Sigma sister from my member class!

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We make volunteering a family affair. It is important to me that my three children find ways they can MEGHAN MALLOY make positive changes in our community – after all, someday, they and their friends will be the adults in charge!

DO YOU HAVE ADVICE FOR ALUMNAE WHO ARE CONCERNED ABOUT THE TIME COMMITMENT TO VOLUNTEER? First things first – consider how you want to volunteer.

Then honestly assess how much time you have on a weekly, monthly or bimonthly basis. It’s OK to start small.

Even a ripple expands through an entire pond, and any amount of time serving your community is important and makes an impact.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ALPHA CHI OMEGA MEMORY? Too many to count! But truthfully, the nights at the AXΩ house watching movies, laughing and eating snacks are among the best memories I have of being part of Sigma chapter!

WHAT DO YOU HOPE COMES NEXT FOR YOU IN YOUR ALPHA CHI JOURNEY? It was incredible to come back to AXΩ earlier this year and be part of the first Social Justice Institute – it really felt like coming back home! Someday I would love to be an advisor for one of our Iowa chapters or contribute at the national level. LITB! If you’re interested in volunteering with Alpha Chi Omega, log in to My Alpha Chi to submit your volunteer interest form. Not sure what volunteer roles are available? You can access a list of available volunteer opportunities on My Alpha Chi!

AXΩ CONNECTION

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COLLEGIATE NOTES 1 BETA PSI (LOUISIANA TECH UNIVERSIT Y)

3 GAMMA PHI (L AMAR UNIVERSIT Y)

Sisters welcomed potential new members during open house round of recruitment.

Members shared about the importance of domestic violence awareness during their recruitment’s philanthropy round.

2 GAMMA ZETA (UNIVERSIT Y OF KANSAS) Gamma Zeta members were all smiles during sisterhood round of recruitment!

4 IOTA XI (UNIVERSIT Y OF CALIFORNIA, RIVERSIDE) Sisters put their love of Alpha Chi Omega on display during recruitment!

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5 OMICRON (BAKER UNIVERSIT Y)

7 DELTA NU (IOWA STATE UNIVERSIT Y)

Dressed in scarlet red, Omicron sisters welcomed potential new members to preference during recruitment.

There’s nothing like hugging new members on Bid Day!

6 ZETA PSI (LOYOL A UNIVERSIT Y NEW ORLEANS) Sisters greeted their new member class at their butterfly-themed Bid Day!

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8 KAPPA CHI (FLORIDA GULF COAST UNIVERSIT Y) Kappa Chi members had a blast at their first sisterhood retreat of the year.

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9 RHO (UNIVERSIT Y OF WASHINGTON)

11 KAPPA SIGMA (THE UNIVERSIT Y OF SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI)

Rho chapter’s 2023 executive board is seeking the heights! Photo by Andre Stepanov.

10 ALPHA PHI (THE UNIVERSIT Y OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN) Alpha Phi chapter served up a fun big/little sister reveal, with chapter families dressing in costume.

No matter the school we’re cheering for on game day, we’re always cheering for Alpha Chi! 12 OMEGA (WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSIT Y) Sisterhood is in bloom at the Omega chapter!

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AXΩ CONNECTION

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ALUMNAE NOTES 1 KAPPA SIGMA KAPPA (LIT TLE ROCK, ARKANSAS) Chapter members recently gathered to catch up and dine on scrumptious cuisine at the newly renovated Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts.

2 MU MU (KANSAS CIT Y, MISSOURI) Sisters held a welcome back event and had an amazing time reconnecting and learning about Paws 4 Autism, an organization that provides kids with service dogs.

Sisters from 10 collegiate chapters were able to enjoy this fun event!

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3 NU XI NU (SANTA CL ARITA, CALIFORNIA) Sisters paused for a photo after their installation as alumnae chapter officers.

4 ALPHA EPSILON ALPHA (WASHINGTON, DC) Alumnae chapter members enjoyed a meal together to celebrate summertime.

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5 SIGMA SIGMA (ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI) The fall Sigma Sigma Night saw 37 members, including these six, gather for a salad bar dinner, a raffle and a collection of exam treats for the four Missouri collegiate chapters they support.

6 GAMMA ETA GAMMA (EUGENE, OREGON) To welcome new officers and kick off the program year, the alumnae chapter enjoyed dinner, socializing and reviewing the 2023-24 calendar.

7 OMICRON PHI OMICRON (ZETA PI ALUMNAE) The alumnae chapter hosted its annual “Rushing Our Seniors” happy hour, inviting seniors from Zeta Pi (Arizona State University) to learn about alumnae chapter membership and leadership opportunities.

8 BETA OMEGA BETA (PHOENIX, ARIZONA) To celebrate Founders’ Day, sisters from 22 chapters of initiation learned from a local domestic violence organization, donated $1,000 to the organization and celebrated membership milestones!

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AXΩ CONNECTION

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9 BETA PI (WASHINGTON COLLEGE) ALUMNA

11 DELTA NU (IOWA STATE UNIVERSIT Y) ALUMNAE

Patricia Darby (left, Alpha Mu, Indiana University), wearing her 50-year pin, presented Barbara Hill (Beta Pi) with her 75-year pin during a special ceremony. Barbara was also given a bouquet of red carnations and enjoyed a special luncheon with Sigma Tau Sigma (Central Massachusetts) chapter sisters and friends!

10 ALPHA BETA (PURDUE UNIVERSIT Y) ALUMNAE Sisters gathered for a fun-filled reunion in Austin, Texas.

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Sisters of the 70s held their 14th reunion at the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colorado. They enjoyed hiking, horseback riding, a tour of the Stanley Hotel and all-around outdoor fun.

12 UPSILON (MILLIKIN UNIVERSIT Y) ALUMNAE Sisters from 1989-92 spent a long weekend in Gulfport, Florida reconnecting after not seeing each other for 30 years!

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13 ALPHA BETA (PURDUE UNIVERSIT Y) ALUMNAE

15 BETA PHI (BOWLING GREEN STATE UNIVERSIT Y) ALUMNAE

To celebrate 60 years of sisterhood, eight women traveled to West Palm Beach, Florida for a reunion.

Sisters from the graduating class of 1983 celebrated their 40th reunion at homecoming.

14 DELTA KAPPA (SAM HOUSTON STATE UNIVERSIT Y) ALUMNAE

16 EPSILON UPSILON (MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSIT Y) ALUMNAE

These women have been sisters and friends for more than 30 years and enjoyed a trip to Destin, Florida this summer.

Sisters met up in Starkville for a weekend of reminiscing and fun, including exploring campus together.

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17 ALPHA PSI (UCL A) ALUMNAE Since their graduation from UCLA, sisters have enjoyed reunions, with fun traditions like a welcome party and a competitive white elephant gift exchange. This year’s gathering was in Lake Arrowhead, California. Writes Pamela Richman, “Our sisterhood has lasted 41 years, and while the faces are not always the same, we are always embracing to seek new heights!”

18 ZETA OMEGA (WESTERN CAROLINA UNIVERSIT Y) ALUMNAE These alumnae have a lot in common: they are all Zeta Omega initiates and members of Lambda Upsilon Lambda (Asheville, North Carolina) alumnae chapter!

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19 RHO (UNIVERSIT Y OF WASHINGTON) ALUMNAE The Rho new member class of 1983 (pictured) organized a 40th reunion last June, and to make the celebration even better, they invited the new member classes of 1982, 1984 and 1985. All these classes overlapped living in the chapter house together! While most still live around the Pacific Northwest, others traveled from as far away as Florida. It was a great afternoon of reconnecting, sharing stories and much laughter.

20 GAMMA L AMBDA (KENT STATE UNIVERSIT Y) ALUMNAE Gamma Lambda sisters gathered for their 10th biennial reunion on a five-day Road Scholar adventure in Savannah, Georgia. Plans are already in the works for the next two reunions in Ohio and Florida!

CONGRATUL ATIONS TO THESE 10 COLLEGIATE CHAPTERS WITH THE TOP AVERAGE SERVICE HOURS PER MEMBER! RESULTS ARE BASED ON REPORTED PHIL ANTHROPY AND COMMUNIT Y SERVICE HOURS.

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• Alpha Eta • Phi • Delta Nu • Gamma Zeta • Iota Phi

• Theta Lambda • Sigma • Alpha Chi • Epsilon Tau • Gamma Epsilon

CONGRATUL ATIONS TO THE COLLEGIATE CHAPTERS THAT EARNED A CHAPTER AVERAGE GPA AT OR ABOVE 3.5. A * DENOTES THOSE THAT RECEIVED A 3.5 AVERAGE MULTIPLE TERMS.

2 ACCOLADES 1 ALPHA MU (INDIANA UNIVERSIT Y) ALUMNA Elizabeth Retter published the book series The Adventures of Easton the Rescue Pet to shine a light on the importance of rescuing animals. Elizabeth recently retired from teaching and says, “Alpha Chi has always encouraged women to be trailblazers, and I attribute that thought process to inspiring me to start this new chapter in my life.”

2 ZETA OMICRON (VANDERBILT UNIVERSIT Y) ALUMNA

• Delta • Epsilon • Eta • Lambda* • Rho • Upsilon • Alpha Mu • Alpha Upsilon* • Alpha Chi* • Alpha Psi • Beta Delta • Beta Eta* • Beta Omicron • Beta Sigma* • Beta Phi* • Beta Chi • Gamma Zeta • Gamma Theta* • Gamma Iota* • Gamma Tau* • Delta Epsilon

• Delta Mu • Epsilon Zeta • Epsilon Phi • Epsilon Chi • Zeta Omicron* • Zeta Rho* • Zeta Sigma • Zeta Upsilon • Zeta Phi • Theta Lambda • Theta Upsilon • Theta Omega • Iota Lambda • Iota Nu • Iota Rho • Iota Sigma • Iota Psi • Iota Omega* • Kappa Tau • Kappa Phi

Drawing on her 20+ years as a mental health professional and her own journey, Amanda Wallingsford published her self-development book, Embody Your Worth: Essential Strategies to Live Confidently and Create Your Dream Life.

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IN MEMORIAM

In Memoriam Reported to headquarters between August 1 and October 31, 2023 Name, Initiation Year, Month and Year of Death Alpha (DePauw University) Diana Root Braverman, 1949, January 2008 Judith Mary Clark, 1949, May 2003 Susan Shepherd Herron, 1949, March 2021 Joan Muzzy Nagle, 1949, August 2016 Lois Purcell Poe, 1919, November 1989 Barbara Peters Schultz, 1949, December 2007 Jeannine Peaster Steinmetz, 1949, November 2014 Beta (Albion College) Marilyn Vivier Bacon, 1949, November 2017 Millie Fox Clifford, 1909, August 1983 Mabel R Collins, 1893, March 1938 Dorothy Ritchie Herzberg, 1949, December 2008 Audrey Grieves Johnson, 1949, August 2000 Glenna Schantz Mills, 1893, July 1974 Charlotte Northrup Wochholz, 1918, June 1995 Gamma (Northwestern University) Betty Carmichael Dennis, 1949, September 2022 Peggy Kendall Forrey, 1949, October 2015 Judith Miskell Gossett, 1956, August 2023 Ruth Evelyn Kelly, 1949, November 2014 Constance Bauer Krumwiede, 1949, February 2023 Patricia Peterson Lloyd, 1949, September 2010 Barbara Westphal Maurer, 1954, May 2016 Sharon Lenz Nix, 1965, April 2023 Mary Devatz Tilly, 1946, July 2016 Epsilon (University of Southern California) Louise White Corson, 1906, December 1977 Lorna Calkins Homrighausen, 1916, January 1990 Marjorie Hitzler Pitkin, 1919, May 1992 Harriet Monfort Sperry, 1916, August 1984 Ruth Arnold True, 1911, November 1979 Drusilla Petersen Wright, 1946, April 2008 Zeta (New England Conservatory) Helen C Collins, 1897, December 1949 Marian Skinner King, 1917, January 1985 Nelle Cutler Moody, 1908, January 1981 Florence Barbiers Morris, 1921, March 1989 Gertrude Shaw Spencer, 1915, January 1985

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Theta (University of Michigan) Mary Benedict Bickley, 1905, December 1978 Lucie Fink Felton, 1946, August 2016 Charlotte Crane Sakar, 1949, April 2015

Betty Roberts Shaw, 1943, April 2019 Norma Robinette Sticksel, 1942, December 2014 Rebecca Deahl Wrigley, 1965, August 2023

Iota (University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign) Bessie Byers Davisson, 1906, September 1970 Diane Freeto Harmon, 1954, August 2023 Patricia Allen Lannon, 1958, September 2023 Jeannette Patterson Slothower, 1919, June 1987 Jane Ingles Truitt, 1943, May 2010

Tau (Brenau University) Lucile Bean Smith, 1912, October 1987 Maude Bass Smith, 1912, September 1984 Mary Kennedy Thurin, 1948, September 2023

Kappa (University of Wisconsin-Madison) Mary Ann Terwilliger Anderson, 1968, August 2023 Ruth Thompson Curtiss, 1937, June 2015 Shirley Schanen Gruen, 1942, December 2020 Mary Chynoweth Rhyme, 1942, August 2012 Lambda (Syracuse University) Eleanor Brettle Kirsch, 1946, December 2014 Helen Heid Platner, 1940, December 2019 Mu (Simpson College) Evaline Whaley Calhoun, 1943, August 2023 Katherine Buxton Devine, 1948, August 2023 Nu (University of Colorado Boulder) Margaret Grider Johnson, 1957, July 2023 Dorothy Jacobson Rice, 1953, September 2023 Xi (University of Nebraska – Lincoln) Beulah Bell Haggart, 1910, February 1986 Beverly Gable Walker, 1947, July 2023 Omicron (Baker University) Lanell McCann Pruett, 1966, September 2023 Margaret Elizabeth Smith, 1918, May 1992 Lorita Freeborn Stilley, 1981, May 2023 Pi (University of California, Berkeley) Charlotte Bunke Gould 1949 December 2017 Eugenia Mary McCabe 1912 April 1988 Margaret Stutzman Reeve 1949 July 2022

Upsilon (Millikin University) Helen Brown Beck, 1921, December 1998 Gillian Beginski, 2020, August 2023 Marian Pease Hess, 1926, November 2003 Patricia Duncan Shelato, 1949, November 2012 Jo Faulkner Sutton, 1949, January 2004 Janet Keeler Williams, 1951, August 2023 Phi (University of Kansas) Margaret Horalek DeBord, 1950, October 2021 Patsy Davis Keough, 1949, May 2000 Barbara Swallow-Hruza, 1951, August 2023 June Maune Teasdale, 1955, May 2022 Chi (Oregon State University) Mildred Crout Cole, 1915, April 1989 Carol Conway Grafton, 1949, June 2015 Carolyn Kach Mauchley, 1949, September 2021 Priscilla Green McCafferty, 1949, October 2009 Helen Kelleher Pieser, 1954, December 2022 Joyce Ohlsen Quigley, 1951, October 2022 Mary Powell Scholz, 1949, October 1970 Shirley Isaac Smith, 1949, April 1988 Psi (The University of Oklahoma) Joanne Phillips Baxter, 1956, October 2022 Frances A. Deen, 1951, October 2023 Marjorie Peterson Downing, 1952, October 2023 Linda Kaszubowski Moore, 1963, April 2023

Rho (University of Washington) Jean Belcher Cahill, 1932, December 2008 Lynn Duval Demeerleer, 1965, June 2022 Carol Hansen Eaton, 1954, August 2023 Pauline Dean Hidden, 1932, June 1997 Janet Swanson Tehan, 1949, July 2021

Omega (Washington State University) Carol Wenzel Graybill, 1945, October 2023 Gertrude Stephens Hammatt, 1916, August 1990 Nadia Abdelwahab Kassa, 2011, August 2023 Marjorie White Sands, 1941, July 2023 Genevieve Clark Taylor, 1919, September 1983 Sandra Woodard Wick, 1957, August 2023

Sigma (University of Iowa) Carolyn Birch Buckner, 1960, May 2019 Margaret Meister Lillick, 1945, July 2020 Evelyn Afflerbaugh Lowe, 1942, June 2012

Alpha Beta (Purdue University) Joyce Arnold Bol, 1949, July 2020 Phyllis Lady Chambers, 1949, September 2019 Mary Winchester Finfrock, 1949, May 2020

Mary Ballard Keller, 1938, May 2009 Doris Abel Lawlis, 1939, December 2021 Mary Switzer McEowen, 1940, May 2021 Corinne Farmer Pardew, 1949, December 2011 Faith Wayne Pearson, 1940, January 2019 Betty Lynch Roberts, 1945, December 2021 Elinor Owens Sutton, 1949, February 2013 Nancy Patterson Wallace, 1949, October 2021 Alpha Gamma (The University of New Mexico) Betty Bourbonia Davis, 1950, October 2023 Marilyn Bebber Sheppard, 1954, July 2023 Alpha Delta (University of Cincinnati) Natalie Jamison Mitchell, 1945, February 2023 Alpha Epsilon (University of Pennsylvania) Marilyn Ferris Simpson, 1946, September 2023 Laura Bee Spilka, 1919, September 1992 Sara Fischer Swanson, 1953, September 2023 Alpha Zeta (Washington University in St. Louis) Ally Rowe Baker, 1949, August 2018 Dona Bergfeld Grothaus, 1961, June 2018 Victoria Romero Kernell, 1961, August 2023 Sandra Acklin Keymer, 1961, May 2023 Armida Heslep Lindsey, 1959, September 2023 Elfriede Uthoff Miller, 1920, August 1985 Albertine Parrent Rupp, 1942, July 2019 Viola Coyle Squires, 1941, May 2012 Alpha Eta (University of Mount Union) Elizabeth West Davidson, 1961, March 2023 Ruth Myers Swift, 1944, October 2023 Alpha Theta (Drake University) Lela Lingenfelter Livingston, 1921, November 1985 Ruth Bell Sullivan, 1921, August 1986 Wilda Augustine Warstell, 1921, October 1977 Katherine Jacklin Wright, 1921, February 1979 Alpha Iota (University of Vermont) Vivian Waterman Howland, 1921, April 1979 Alpha Kappa (University of Oregon) Joyce Clute Voss, 1963, November 2022 Susan Ravizza Winslow,1955, August 2023 Alpha Lambda (University of Minnesota) Margaret Sweetser Hagerty, 1949, April 2017 Mary Leaf Lammers, 1956, July 2023 Alpha Mu (Indiana University) Louise Wellington Allyn, 1924, August 1993

Frances Worrell Becherer, 1935, February 2007 Elizabeth Hughes Bennett, 1936, January 2012 Helen Nelson Botkin, 1938, January 2004 Jean Butler Clark, 1935, March 2008 Delight Southern Coulter, 1932, December 1997 Jane Detamore Cummins, 1931, December 1981 Virginia Harrison Cunningham, 1936, April 1992 Doris Cook Deuel, 1934, August 1998 Virginia Biery Doersam, 1937, January 2020 Louise Emerson, 1926, July 1965 June Townsley Fink, 1935, June 2004 Jane Worland Franceshini, 1934, July 1998 Barbara Carson Gribble, 1952, September 2023 Thelma Shinkle Hamilton, 1938, April 2002 Julia Peckinpaugh Henderson, 1937, August 2014 Patricia Odonnell Henderson, 1939, May 2001 Helen Rinker Hensley, 1926, December 1995 Julia Harting Keelin, 1937, November 2012 Elizabeth Dorner Keown, 1933, November 2008 Rosemary Fry Kigin, 1940, December 2021 Betty Mikel Klinger, 1957, August 2023 Margaret Kriegbaum Lacey, 1938, September 2016 Virginia Stevens Lahey, 1939, December 2019 Mary Russell Larmore, 1937, June 2009 M Evelyn Ham Louck, 1933, May 2002 Estelle W Lynch, 1925, October 1999 Dorothy Rinne Martin, 1936, May 2006 Betty Smith McLemore, 1936, October 2005 Helen Lowe Mellencamp, 1935, November 2010 Mary Bard Merchant, 1948, August 2023 Marjorie Niles Meyers, 1939, April 2017 Grace Louise Mitchum, 1923, April 1986 Imogene Sharpnack Morgeson, 1937, October 2018 Virginia Cole Peterson, 1938, April 1996 Nancy Hooker Pontius, 1944, February 2003 Dorothy Durbin Putman, 1937, March 2008 Rachel Hargrave Sawyer, 1934, November 2001 Betty Ditzler Seagrave, 1938, November 1988 Joan Doughty Seal, 1961, October 2022 Mary Ann Ferguson Seeber, 1949, March 2019 Dorothy Punsky Shadel, 1938, July 2001 Edwina Elizabeth Shroll, 1935, December 2010 Lyndal Reed Simon, 1954, September 2023 Emmy Cavanaugh Smith, 1941, January 2011 Olive Lesh Smith, 1931, November 1999 Sally Bollenbacher Swain, 1939, December 2006

Patricia McCord Villas, 1957, October 2023 Mary Elizabeth Walsh, 1933, November 2004 Kathryn Herle Waynick, 1936, September 2015 Juliarose Stimson Weaver, 1935, September 1989 Zetta Franklin Weaver, 1946, December 2004 Vera Morris West, 1935, May 2014 Lucille Hurd Wilson, 1928, December 1994 Susan Townsley Wiseman, 1944, September 2016 Alpha Nu (University of Missouri) Mary Frow Harris, 1944, May 2015

IT IS THE RESPONSIBILIT Y OF EVERY ALPHA CHI OMEGA TO SEE THAT THE LYRE BADGE SHE WEARS IS PROTECTED AND NEVER IN THE POSSESSION OF A NONMEMBER. BADGES OF MEMBERS WHO HAVE PASSED MAY BE BEQUEATHED TO ANOTHER ALPHA CHI OMEGA OR RETURNED TO HEADQUARTERS. A BADGE SHOULD NEVER BE SOLD BY ANY MEANS. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT HEADQUARTERS AT 317-579-5050.

IN MEMORIAM

Alpha Omicron (The Ohio State University) Donna Towne Gilboa, 1953, April 2023 Mary Thompson Mercer, 1953, August 2023 Eileen Fulton Watson, 1949, August 2013 Alpha Rho (University of Idaho) Norma Yount Piper, 1925, April 1994 Anna Schrom Taylor, 1950, July 2022 Alpha Sigma (Ohio Wesleyan University) Margaret Edgerton, 1961, December 2021 Mary Sue Lang, 1954, May 2019 Beulah Swinney Swenumson, 1945, September 2023 Alpha Upsilon (The University of Alabama) Marion Skinner Almon, 1955, October 2023 Anita Ross Barnett, 1949, July 2019 Mia Gray Grey, 1949, February 2011 Charlene Allen Jennings, 1949, January 2019 Mildred Atkinson Shearer, 1949, August 2013 Mallory Bolen Whitaker, 1977, September 2023 Joy Furcron Whittaker, 1949, January 2023 Alpha Phi (The University of Texas at Austin) Carolyn Taylor Cochrum, 1956, August 2023 Katie Wassberg Guiou, 1993, July 2023 Betty Askew Howell, 1959, August 2023 Judith G Latimer, 1954, June 2023 Callie Schaefer Meyer Barnett, 1956, June 2023 Gloria Wiginton Murray, 1949, November 1994 Alpha Chi (Butler University) Martha Baker Bayless, 1941, July 2005 Ladyann Halpin Loudenback, 1949, October 2019 Jean Chauncey Metzger, 1942, January 2017 Helen Strong Mills, 1943, December 2016 Barbara Vestal Sparks, 1949, February 2015 Louise Bicknell Wilson, 1938, December 2013 Alpha Omega (Birmingham-Southern College) Mary Deweese Mory, 1973, October 2023 Beta Gamma (Louisiana State University) Helen Lee Arnold, 1939, October 2016 Marguerite Flint Fogleman, 1944, March 2020 Sallye Jean Toniette, 1949, August 2015 Beta Delta (College of William & Mary) Cecil Waddell Cunningham, 1943, August 2023

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Beta Epsilon (Michigan State University) Jane Kitchen Broome, 1944, December 2011 Lorna Ball Dunn, 1941, June 2016 Carol Reihmer Duvall, 1944, July 2023 Dorothy Lamont Fehr, 1943, February 2015 Patricia Reddy Ferguson, 1940, November 2018 Carol Schier Goodale, 1943, October 2011 Aileene Zickgraf Izzo, 1940, July 2007 Jeanne Charlton Jacobs, 1941, March 2010 Geraldine Harsen Laetz, 1941, January 2017 Verna Carstens Lovejoy, 1942, January 2002 Eugenia Libby Marshall, 1945, November 2016 Rachael Houck McCormick, 1945, March 2012 Donna Eckstrom Rossiter, 1944, December 2014 Kathleen Roosa Treanor, 1944, September 2013 Susan Moore Tull, 1943, April 2018 Mary Herbert Turner, 1962, May 2023 Juanita Fox Watterberg, 1939, January 2019 Margaret Gardner Wilson, 1936, July 2011 Helen Hootman Wyns, 1940, June 2014 Beta Zeta (Whitman College) Mary Lou Cadwell, 1948, June 2023 Carmen Greenstreet Hagman, 1947, August 2023 Beta Eta (Florida State University) Vicki Susan Challancin, 1968, July 2023 Katherine Morrow McElvy, 1951, August 2023 Beta Theta (Lawrence University) Betty Landis Blackwell, 1940, November 2007 Jean Paulison Stritt, 1949, December 2013 Beta Kappa (University of Wyoming) Beverly Ann Lockhart, 1950, July 2023 Beta Lambda (University of Arizona) Amelia Hofstetter McLaughlin, 1949, March 2016 Maraine Wilson Pound, 1949, May 2009 Margaret Orris Thoennes, 1949, April 2019 Jeanne Eaton Zern, 1949, February 2016 Beta Mu (Pennsylvania State University) Claudia Bodes Doolittle, 1935, August 2023 Beta Rho (American University) Shirley Newbaker McCracken, 1949, April 2019 Beta Tau (Miami University) Peggy Kesling Bachman, 1943, January 2020 F. Jean Duvall, 1942, December 2012

Shirley Nieman Fischer, 1948, August 2023 Margaret McClughen Gieser, 1955, August 2023 Beta Phi (Bowling Green State University) Ruth Wales Vanwormer, 1944, August 2023 Beta Chi (Willamette University) Aldeane Louise Adams, 1949, July 2020 Beta Psi (Louisiana Tech University) Mildred Nickey Anderson, 1949, August 2019 Burnelle Wall Brantley, 1949, November 2015 Mary Courtney Brymer, 1944, May 2012 Katherine Waltz Carter, 1949, February 2002 Amanda Marie Coburn, 2005, February 2022 Betty Moore Fleming, 1949, April 2016 Susan Segers Griffith, 1949, June 2016 Mildred White Hobbs, 1949, September 2014 Betty White Maddry, 1949, July 2020 Carol Williamson Riddle, 1949, October 2013 Lanelle Winham Strickland, 1949, December 2018 Barbara Ford Taylor, 1949, August 1987 Doris Penny Worley, 1949, December 1997 Gamma Delta (University of Denver) Dorothy Brown Benedict, 1949, May 2020 Marcia Hamilton Korstvedt, 1948, September 2021 Gamma Epsilon (Oklahoma State University) Mary Myles Rogers, 1950, May 2023 Gamma Eta (San Jose State University) Norma Bettencourt Desalles, 1949, December 2014 Leone Arbios Laraway, 1949, December 2009 Gamma Theta (University of Maryland) Patricia Wynne Barnes,1949, September 2023 Phyllis Elaine Cromwell,1948, December 1989 Gamma Iota (University of Florida) Jane Ownbey Blair, 1951, July 2023 Marilyn Paddock Blanch, 1955, June 2022 Sarah Gill Giddings, 1949, October 2021 Helen Watt Stafford, 1949, November 1996 Gamma Lambda (Kent State University) Lillian Pollack Cawley, 1954, September 2023 Gamma Mu (Ball State University) Carolyn Jeannette Blitz, 1971, May 2023 Susan Irey Reno, 1964, October 2023

Gamma Omicron (Marshall University) Jennifer Lynn Readler, 1992, July 2023 Joanna Tabit, 1980, September 2023 Gamma Pi (University of Tampa) Jayne Anderson Smith, 1954, September 2023 Gamma Rho (Texas Tech University) Zella Byrd Birdwell, 1956, August 2023

# AlphaChiOmega With Alpha Chi Omegas all over the world, social media is a great way to stay connected or get to know chapters other than your own!

Gamma Phi (Lamar University) Dorothy Tudor Morrison Cogswell, 1957, December 2021 Delta Iota (Emory University) Gwendolyn Sue Warren,1959, September 2023 Delta Kappa (Sam Houston State University) Carol Owens Shaw, 1971, August 2023 Delta Mu (University of Massachusetts) Suzanne Lacroix Bosco, 1961, September 2023 Maryellen Cicchetti Gray, 1961, March 2022 Janet Souza Pineault, 1961, October 2022 Delta Nu (Iowa State University) Janice Casey Larsen, 1973, June 2015 Delta Xi (Denison University) Constance Kay Barsky, 1963, August 2023 Delta Psi (University of California, Santa Barbara) Sandra Helm Morris, 1965, October 2023 Epsilon Zeta (Auburn University) Grace Newman Polidoro, 1967, March 2020 Epsilon Mu (Northern Illinois University) Phyllis Lynn Pederson, 1971, June 2022 Epsilon Nu (Boise State University) Frances Elizabeth May, 2011, August 2023 Epsilon Chi (University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill) Martha McClure Wilson, 1977, March 2015 Zeta Sigma (Missouri State University) Terry Kidd Dillon, 1983, September 2023 Mary Ellen Shimmens, 1987, October 2023 Zeta Tau (Villanova University) Amy Hilseberg Clark, 1999, September 2017

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