June 2022 KAPPAN

KAPPAN JUNE 2022

Share Your

Gifts

ALPHA DELTA KAPPA

Alpha Delta KAPPAN VOLUME 51 NUMBER 2

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JUNE 2022

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Features & Departments 1

International President’s Message

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Leadership Academy

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5 6 7 8 9

10 11 12 17 20 22 23

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The Gift of Sustaining Membership Headquarter Happenings Honor A Sister

KAPPAN EDITOR Joanne Grimm, CA Alpha Alpha KAPPAN STAFF Susan Pelchat, CT Mu Shannon Lorenzo-Rivero, TN Chi Betty Sherrod, VA Gamma Omicron Susan Whelan, NJ Kappa Erin Worthington, TN Chi Sara Armstrong, CA Alpha Alpha Julie Rehm, Digital Publications Specialist, Int'l HQ KAPPAN REVIEW BOARD Mollie Acosta, International President Ann Marie Brown, International President-Elect Judy Ganzert, Immediate Past International President Bev Card, International Executive Board Chairman Christi Smith, Executive Director Alpha Delta Kappa empowers women educators to advance inclusion, educational excellence, altruism and world understanding.

The KAPPAN magazine is published quarterly

by Alpha Delta Kappa, International Honorary Organization for Women Educators.

Find the KAPPAN Publishing Guidelines online at www.alphadeltakappa.org.

Chapter Anniversaries

Alpha Delta Kappa International Headquarters: 1615 W. 92nd St., Kansas City, MO 64114-3210 (816) 363-5525, (800) 247-2311, Fax (816) 363-4010 email: headquarters@alphadeltakappa.org Internet: www.alphadeltakappa.org

A Time to Remember

The opinions expressed herein are those of the individual authors and are not necessarily in conformity with those of Alpha Delta Kappa or the editor.

Share Your Gifts

Submitting Items for the next KAPPAN

Sisters Connecting With Sisters Again Bytes and Pieces

World Understanding

Everything I Know, I Learned While Planning a Convention or a Conference Sister Tales

Why We Support the Alzheimer’s Association and The Longest Day Amazing Members

The KAPPAN Congratulates #A∆K

Altruistic Projects Omega Chapter

Homeroom Humor A∆K Calendar

Correction: The KAPPAN apologizes to Leslie Pritchard, NC Fidelis Tau, who was incorrectly listed in the March issue Omega list.

The deadline for submissions to the KAPPAN is two months before the issue publication date.

The deadline for the September 2022 issue is July 1. Authors should include their name, state/province/nation and chapter, highest A∆K office held and when.

September is the KAPPAN’s Back to School Issue. Sharing the ABCs of Teaching is the theme.

We are looking for articles on achieving, building and caring. Share your teaching tales and what you learned that was never included in any education course. Introduce us to that one student that made you proud to be a teacher. Deadline is July 1, 2022.

To submit articles/photos, go to the A∆K webs ite>About>Publications>Submit to the KAPPAN. Follow submission guidelines on the submission form.

International President’s Message

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hare Your Gift. Florida’s Immediate Past State President, Nina Coe, spent a couple of weeks in the hospital in late February and early March recovering from a fall. She is doing quite well now, thankfully. In conversations with her doctors and nurses during her stay, she talked about how wonderful this organization of women educators is. Her care team noticed and commented on all of the support that was showered on Nina by her Alpha Delta Kappa sisters. One of Nina’s nursing assistants told Nina about a good friend of hers who was in a teacher preparation program. Nina gave Mollie Acosta the assistant information about our website. Two hours later, the assistant came back totally excited and said her friend had looked at the website and was very interested in joining our organization when she became a teacher.

Nina said to me that this would be her message from now on: “No more excuses. If I can recruit from inside the hospital, we all can.” Each One, Reach One. Thank you, Nina, for using your gifts of passion and communication to reach one and offer the gift of membership in Alpha Delta Kappa.

As sisters in Alpha Delta Kappa, you share your gifts every day. Each of you brings your own unique gifts to your chapter and beyond. You bring gifts of time, resources, energy – and that immeasurable gift that comes from the heart, passion. In this issue you will read about many sisters’ gifts, gifts that enrich fellow sisters and communities near and far. And you will see the first in a series of articles leading up to the 2023 International Convention to be held July 13-16, 2023 in Kansas City where we will celebrate the 75th anniversary of Alpha Delta Kappa. We turn 75 officially on August 13, 2022. Many thanks to Terry Peyton, Immediate Past IVP, Gulf Region, for sharing her gift of creativity in designing the Anniversary graphic you’ll see. Sue Pelchat interviewed our oldest living Past International President, Ruth Walsh to kick off our look back at some of the history of our organization. Sue shares with us what a gift Ruth is to her Alpha Delta Kappa sisters. She is certainly an inspiration to me.

I have said before that Alpha Delta Kappa is much more than just another professional organization. We give a great deal in the way of scholarships and grants. The amount is well over $200,000 per year. We provide Disaster Relief for members and the community at large and we support our International Teacher Education (ITE) scholars from other countries

Share the Love 2021-2023

Alpha Delta Kappa

completing post-graduate studies in the United States. We have supported St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital since 1981 and last year alone raised more than $220,000 for the Alzheimer’s Association’s The Longest Day (TLD) campaign to help find a cure for Alzheimer’s and other dementia illnesses. We have raised funds to educate children in Vietnam, Peru, Haiti, on the Lakota Indian reservation in South Dakota and now in Tanzania. As an organization we give many gifts to make the world a better place. However, we are able to make that difference only through the willingness of each of YOU as individual sisters because you CHOOSE to share your gifts.

It is the giving of yourself to support fellow educators and leaders within Alpha Delta Kappa that touches my heart the most. It is those of you who are retired members choosing to volunteer in a sister’s classroom and you who send love notes or care packages to those educators who have struggled under such difficult circumstances these past two years, as well as you who knit baby caps or call bingo games or quilt something beautiful to give to a fellow sister – your individual acts of sharing make Alpha Delta Kappa MORE than just another professional organization.

A special gift of the heart is the gift of mentoring. Alpha Delta Kappa sisters are mentored at many levels within the organization. Ellen Roderick, MD Beta and former Chairman of the International Executive Board, started the first formal mentoring program, the Regional Mentor Program for S/P/N Presidents-Elect, in 2004. Since that time, 40 sisters have served as mentors to their region’s presidents-elect. I would like to express my deep gratitude to the 2020-2022 Regional Mentors led by Chairman Wanda McCampbell. Linda Chambers, Ivette Bender, Kerry King, Glad Loreen, Connie Cathey and Mitzi Holmes, along with Wanda, an incredible team who have continued to meet the needs of their presidents-elect throughout the pandemic. They have chosen to share their gifts of being good listeners and communicators, good leaders and learners and especially their gift of passion for Alpha Delta Kappa. It is this gift that comes from the heart for which I am most grateful.

Whatever your gifts, we all know that sharing them with others enriches not only those with whom you share, but also yourself. You and your unique gifts make Alpha Delta Kappa and the world better. I thank you and your sisters thank you for sharing your gifts.

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MEMBERSHIP MESSAGE

The Gift of Sustaining Membership

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By Mary Johnson, Ontario Psi, North Central Membership Chairman

hapters are the heart and home for A∆K members. Members support and encourage one another in their chapter roles and responsibilities and in their professional and personal lives. When a chapter disbands or a member moves away from their beloved chapter, there are options. One is to transfer membership to another chapter nearby. Sometimes, there isn’t a chapter close enough to join, so becoming a sustaining member is the answer.

Sustaining members have all the rights, privileges and obligations of a member affiliated with a chapter. The missing piece in their membership is the connection to a home chapter and the close connections with chapter sisters.

The Membership Analysis for February 2022 recorded 549 sustaining members. Limited members without affiliation to a home chapter were also recorded on the International sustaining list. An International Membership Committee (IMC) work group was formed to take a closer look at services across the regions in support of sustaining members. For obvious reasons, the numbers fluctuate from month to month. An important step in supporting our sustaining sisters is monitoring contact information for accuracy. As sisters age and move away from their home area, they sometimes forget to send their new addresses to International Headquarters or to their state, province or nation.

The usual monitoring procedure is for treasurers to keep track of sustaining members when collecting dues. Many groups have a designated person, often the VP for Membership/Consultant or Corresponding Secretary, who is responsible for communicating with these members through newsletters, telephone calls, greeting cards and invitations to Founders’ Day celebrations and chapter events. A suggestion is that the names and contact information be shared with chapter presidents so they can invite these members to meetings and events. They might even consider adopting a sustaining sister. Many organizations invite sustaining members to join them at their conventions, regional conferences and international conventions. How wonderful for a sustaining sister to receive a call and be invited to join her sisters on a road trip.

Several “actively engaged” sustaining members contributed to this article by phone, Zoom or email. I also heard from officers responsible for contacting these members. Let’s hear some of their voices and hopefully, they will encourage others to become more involved.

Julie Ditton said, “As an International sustaining member 2

living Down Under so ‘far from the madding crowd,’ I feel a close liaison with A∆K sisters in various S/P/Ns. I have been invited to attend many Zoom meetings, been actively involved on the World Understanding Committee for C.H.E.A.R., adjudicated applications for chapter projects and hosted a holiday celebration Aussie-style on Zoom with my SW sisters. I have also been invited to write articles for the KAPPAN. I have been an A∆K member for over 40 years and have attended regional conferences and International conventions where I have met and made special friends in our sisterhood. I hope to continue to kindle these wonderful friendships for many years. We are all kindred spirits although thousands of miles apart.”

Ev Kemp has been a member of two chapters in Niagara Falls, Ontario. Both, unfortunately disbanded. Her sustaining membership has allowed her to keep in touch with other educators. Ev loved the altruistic projects of her chapter and also loved working with younger members and hearing their ideas and suggestions. She enjoys being invited to A∆K events, including Founders’ Day and fundraisers. She loves reading her KAPPAN and receiving the Ontario newsletters by mail. Ev says that this communication keeps her current on what’s going on in A∆K. Judith Gilberti is a NJ sustaining member, currently serving as the Northeast Region Altruistic Chair. She is presenting a learning session in Atlantic City in July with two other sisters from New Jersey.

Virginia Seymour was an A∆K member for over 70 years and served as KS state president. She became a sustaining member when her chapter disbanded. At 97 years old, she joined Omega chapter. She had written this lovely reply note to KS IPP Barbara Corder, who was responsible for contacting and keeping in touch with the KS sustaining members. “Barbara, you have been so faithful to send A∆K state letters, get well cards and wishing me well notes on a regular basis and how I have enjoyed each one. Thanks so much for your special kindness.” Virginia Retabess Ling, also a KS A∆K member for 70 years, wrote the following note to Barbara Corder. “Barbara, thank you for the neat St. Patrick’s Day card. Knowing that others are thinking about you makes the long journey with the pandemic a little easier to cope with.” Retabess Jennie Tomas, WA State Treasurer, was contacting her sustaining members regarding state dues and invited Bev Winther

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to join her Alpha Upsilon chapter’s next Zoom call. Bev has now been enthusiastically attending those meetings. She was thrilled to be invited and plans to stay connected through Zoom.

Phyllis Robinette, CO VPM, wrote, “When I was contacting a sustaining sister this month, I was welcomed with happy greetings. She shared with me the news of her health and told me an old story of when she attended state events. She asked me about one of my chapter sisters and updated me on other sustaining sisters. This contact was to update our CO roster but turned out to be such a great visit. She even took down my name and information. I encourage officers at all levels to make an effort to keep your sustaining sisters informed and share the chance for a nice conversation.”

Mollie Acosta wrote, “Glad Loreen’s chapter folded while she was NW IVP. She became a sustaining sister until she had time to visit other neighboring chapters and found a home chapter again. The sustaining membership served a good purpose for her.”

We can all do better at keeping in touch and reaching out to our sisters. Officers and Headquarters need to be vigilant in keeping contact information updated. Sustaining members need to do their part and keep their contact information current. You have read many ways that connections are already being accomplished. I challenge all of you to continue to think of innovative ways in which to stay connected and to share your skills and talents. Where technology is not an option, the traditional methods of communication through telephone calls, newsletters, notes and in-person visits are always welcomed.

Zoom has been a wonderful gift in helping us all to stay close

over these past two years. I encourage chapters to invite sustaining members to join your meetings and events, either in person or by Zoom.

We should always remember how lucky we are to have a home chapter with sisters who are always there to encourage and support us. Let’s all “share the love of membership” with our sustaining sisters. There’s more than enough to go around.

Ways to Improve Member Engagement A∆K CONNECT is a wonderful platform for members to meet across all regions, to find answers to their questions and to read what’s new in A∆K. Marg Nieradka, ON President-Elect, Membership Consultant and member of the A∆K CONNECT Committee, provided these ideas...

• Explore interest communities on various topics such as gardening, travel and books.

• Find opportunities for online training and join in.

• Share an area of expertise and join the directory being developed.

• Looking for leadership opportunities? Sign up to mentor a new member.

• Share innovative ideas with sisters. Your ideas have value.

• Access or contribute to an online library which is constantly evolving.

Chapter Archives Preserve the Past

By Susan Pelchat, CT Mu, KAPPAN Staff

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hat’s your chapter’s story, and how will you remember it in twenty years? How will it be revisited when today’s members are no longer here to recount it?

With preparation, your chapter archives will do the job. Do you know where they are?

“Our chapter’s history and charter are in one location. I have the original archives with the first meeting’s minutes,” Sarah Perkins, MS Alpha Delta, reported proudly.

“SC Iota has its well-organized history information in a quality tub, which passes to the chapter president for safekeeping,” reported Catherine Mayfield, SC Iota. Phyllis Robinette, CO Eta, reflects on the storage tubs bestowed on presidents as they begin their biennium. “We need to think about this,” she suggested. “I just attended CO Alpha Iota’s 50th anniversary where they presented a wonderful Power Point that could be saved to

the cloud along with the script they used.”

Elizabeth Robinson, GA Beta Phi, reports that her chapter has partnered with their local historical society to use storage boxes for important items like minutes, newsletters and scrapbooks. The boxes are stored in a protected environment.

“Our historian collects documents and memorabilia for a scrapbook, photo book, or DVD for the president to keep. She also creates a written history that goes into a notebook to be passed to the next historian. Written histories are maintained by the historians, and past presidents bring their books to special gatherings for all to review,” wrote Pamela Carrier, NH Lambda.

Sara Cooper, CA Beta Iota, says that her chapter stores past scrapbooks with the Yucaipa Historical Society. If members wish to see the materials, they simply ask the docent or receptionist.”

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Headquarters Happenings

By Christi Smith, Executive Director

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his month marks my one-year anniversary as Executive Director with Alpha Delta Kappa. It has been an amazing journey learning the rich history of AΔK. I have created bonds with many sisters and have been blessed with a warm welcome. I have connected with sisters throughout the states, provinces and nations who have shared common goals: enhance technology, reduce paperwork and help grow our organization.

I am proud to say that we are well on our way to accomplishing those goals. We upgraded our membership database.

These improvements provide robust membership reports and an enhanced directory. S/P/N officers have access to edit membership profiles to support chapter officers. Our website is more secure, and items are easy to locate. One member compared navigating our updated website to driving a brand-new car.

These improvements would not have been possible without your support. Every day, I see exemplary leadership throughout this organization of sisters sharing their love of AΔK. I challenge us to look at leadership not just as a role for those in a current “leadership position,” but also as an activity for every member.

We are all leaders at AΔK. Several years ago, I was introduced to

the following leadership principles shared by the Kansas Leadership Center. They have become the framework of how I embrace leadership, and I hope you, too, consider how leadership is defined.

• Leadership is an activity, not a position.

• Anyone can lead, anytime and anywhere.

• Leadership starts with you; you must engage others.

• Your purpose must be clear.

• It is risky.

At International Headquarters, we hear stories about the challenges our active educators are experiencing. We also hear stories of hope and inspiration as connections are reignited. As we approach our 75th anniversary, it is more important than ever that we take advantage of technological enhancements and personal connections to propel our mission to empower women educators to advance inclusion, educational excellence and world understanding. International President Mollie Acosta challenges you to Share the Love of AΔK with others. International Vice President for Membership Betty Jo Evers reminds everyone that membership begins with you. These messages are critical to the growth of AΔK .

I encourage you to apply these leadership principles when sharing the love of AΔK. Can you imagine the strength of our organization if each member sponsored a new member?

2 0 2 3 L E A D E R S H I P A C A D E M Y A P P L I C AT I O N S O P E N Imagine your leadership possibilities.

Discover your strengths to enhance your leadership capacity.

Develop personal, professional and A∆K leadership skills.

Maximize your emotional intelligence.

Take the leadership challenge.

Prospective Participants and Mentors Apply Online June 1- October 15, 2022, 11:59 PM CT

Participant preference will be given to an active educator who has been a member for five years or less and has not held an elected office beyond the chapter level. An active educator who has been a member for ten years or less and has not held more than one elected S/P/N office is also eligible.

Participants must attend: Zoom sessions, March-June and August-October 2023, a one day workshop on July 12, 2023, from 9:00-5:00 in Kansas City, MO, the 2023 International Convention and a 2024 regional conference. Participants will meet with their mentors monthly from July 2023 4

to July 2024 and will also present a leadership session at a 2024 regional conference.

Mentors must attend several Zoom sessions, the 2023 International Convention and a 2024 regional conference.

Mentors will also meet monthly with their mentees from July 2023 to July 2024.

A Zoom informational meeting and Q&A will be held Sunday, June 26 at 8pm EDT. Leadership Academy Board members are: Su Wade, Chairman, Lynn Blosser, Four-Year Member and Jamie Hawkins, Six-Year Member.

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A∆K Honor A Sister

The following members contributed to the Alpha Delta Kappa Foundation to recognize fellow members.

Gifts received after March 15, 2022 will be published in the September 2022 KAPPAN. Joan Tatum, FL Gamma Omicron In honor of Edwina Aaron, AL Beta Lambda John Bailey In honor of Susan and William Byrd Sandra McAlpin, AZ Gamma In honor of Carol Phillips, AZ Gamma Catherine H. Durvin, VA Mu In honor of VA Beta Lambda Barbara Eason, VA Alpha Tau In memory of Marion Kirk, VA Alpha Tau In memory of Maryann Skrzycki, VA Alpha Tau Terry T. Nakaoka, HI Lambda and Jane Y. Shirafuji, HI Lambda In honor of Merle Chong, HI Lambda In honor of Marian Crislip, HI Lambda In honor of Judy Kaya, HI Lambda In honor of MaryAnne Lee, HI Lambda In honor of Roberta Tom, HI Lambda In honor of Yvonne Lau, HI Lambda In honor of Cherylanne Lee, HI Lambda In honor of Linda Osumi, HI Lambda In honor of Janice Oumaye, HI Lambda In honor of Tina Young, HI Lambda Linda J. Kuwana, UT Theta In honor of Dixie Howard Mitchell, UT Xi Kathryn J. Hammer, FL Delta In memory of Yolanda Hauer, FL Delta Rhon E. Sheffield, GA Fidelis Lambda In honor of Norma Rushing, GA State President Joyce M. Werner, IL Lambda In memory of Judy Addicks, IL Lambda Carole K. Takehara, HI Beta In memory of Mary Hendrickson, HI Beta Kristina N. Lee, HI Beta In memory of Mary Hendrickson, HI Beta Patricia Slagle, GA Gamma Epsilon In memory of Yolanda Hauer, FL Delta

Charlotte C. Zenzick, CT Kappa In honor of Linda Shaw, CT State President In honor of Kerry King, NER mentor Debra H. Clark, GA Alpha Beta In memory of Marianne Nolan, PA Gamma Thelma Nip, HI Beta In memory of Mary Hendrickson, HI Beta Eileen R. Burgwyn, VA Beta Epsilon In honor of Kim Matthias, Int'l Executive Board Member Judy Caraang, CA Beta Omicron In honor of Kelly Labeta, CA Beta Omicron Janet I. Ohta, HI Beta In memory of Mary Hendrickson, HI Beta The Kappettes, 2004-2006 NER State Presidents In memory of Marianne Nolan, PA Gamma

How to Honor a Sister

The Honor a Sister program recognizes individual sisters for their service, contributions to Alpha Delta Kappa or for their friendship. A donation of $25 per person honored may be made online by going to the Foundation tab on the website. Choose DONATE, then Honor a Sister. Under Details, enter “In honor of” or “In memory of” followed by the sister’s name, S/P/N and chapter. e.g., In honor of Betty Bloom, PR Alpha.

To acknowledge a group, enter the name of each sister in the group and submit a donation of $25 per person listed. Sisters will be honored individually by name in the KAPPAN. e.g., In honor of Sally Striderite, AL Beta. In honor of Carol Clarkson, MX Beta. In memory of Diane Dovelet, ON Pi. For this group of three sisters, a minimum donation of $75 should be submitted.

Online donations are preferred, but checks may be mailed to Alpha Delta Kappa Foundation, 1615 W. 92nd St., Kansas City, MO 64114.

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Sisters Connecting With Sisters Again

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n the spring a young man’s fancy may turn to love, but an A∆K sister’s fancy turns to state conventions, regional conferences and how many pairs of shoes she will need for the weekend. The season of seeing old friends and new possibilities begins with state conventions starting in March and running through June. In July, regional conferences are the place to be.

Northwest and Southwest regions got the jump on the season with their joint conference that opened May 31 in Honolulu. Hawaii was the host state with Montana as the supporting host state. The theme was “Diversify Our Vision” with learning sessions on Hawaiian art, language and history. A favorite activity was the Culture Faire where each state had a game or display featuring their state. Diane Best is International Vice President (IVP) of SWR and Janet Johnson is IVP of NWR. Kansas sisters are hostesses for the South Central regional conference in Wichita July 6-8. The theme is “Dream Chasers

and Star Makers” with the word ‘star’ included in every activity.

Rachel Shankles, IVP SCR, says all past International Vice Presidents for the region will be recognized at the Cowgirl Luncheon.

Stars are also in the theme for the Northeast conference July 21-24 in Atlantic City, NJ. The theme is “Connecting the Stars in A∆K.” Attendees will hear about “Girls on the Run”, a program for young runners.

Joyce McAloon is the region’s IVP. “Journey Through the Seasons” is the theme for the North Central region gathering July 17-20 in Frankenmuth, MI, under the leadership of IVP NCR Ann Ainslie. The Southeast region has chosen to use “Capture the Moments that Matter”, a version of IVP SER Ginger Greene’s “Capture the Moment” theme for her conference in Wilmington, NC, July 29-31.

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Flamingos will be everywhere at the Gulf conference in Jacksonville, FL, July 10-12. The Florida hostesses have chosen the theme “Let’s Flamingle”. The guest speaker is author Jane R. Wood. Debbie Clark is IVP Gulf Region.

While regional conferences focus on officer training, state conventions are about conducting the business of the state.

Important events on the crowded agendas were the election and installation of officers and the farewells at Omega services.

Many states offered the choice of hybrid or in-person meetings.

The creativity of convention committees showed in the theme and decoration of the gatherings. Elizabeth McQueen, Ontario President, said the idea for her theme, “Buzzing with Opportunity” and the “Be Kind Cards” given out to attendees came from a dish towel she was given. A magician performed at the North Carolina convention, carrying out the theme of “Celebrate the Magic of A∆K.” Michigan sisters used lights and violets to conduct the “Illuminate the Possibilities: Lighting the Spirit of A∆K” theme.

Oregon urged members to “Be the Light,” while Nebraska used “SOAR” or “Sisters on Active Recruitment.”

Sandy Viga, NM president and Tiffany Karnes, ME president, asked their members to reach new heights and Jeanne Desilets, VT President, asked hers to “Plant the Seeds for Success.”

Sisterhood and friendship were popular themes.

Wyoming praised “The Joys of Sisterhood.” Rita Confer, SC president, used words like flowering, growing and blooming in her agenda to carry out the theme “Growing Together in Sisterhood: Making a Dif-

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ference.” Texas will “Celebrate the Power of Friendship” and Maryland reminded sisters, “Hand in Hand, Sisters Making a Difference.”

Several states built themes around their state. Missouri celebrated the Missouri Bicentennial, Mississippi used “Mississippi River of Love” and Kentucky chose “Growing Kentucky A∆K with Care.”

The theme of the Mexico convention was simply “Love What You Do.” WA President Cathy Jameson’s virtual convention “Treasured Our Connections.” Members were given directions to weave a “Reflection Connection mat.”

Representatives from states’ altruistic projects were popular speakers. Jennifer Marten, Director of Development for the Shriners Hospital spoke at the Louisiana “Sharing Our Love of A∆K” convention.

Maine sisters heard from students at Green Ladle, a culinary program, and South Carolina sisters listened to Cindy Heo from the Angel of HOPE ministry. Speakers from Ronald McDonald House addressed several conventions.

Jane Enright, author of “Butter Side Up” was Ontario’s speaker. Texas members heard Debbie Olson, a motivational speaker. The agenda for Mexico featured Dr. Saulo ChavezAlvarado speaking on “How the Alphabet Was Born.”

Whatever the theme or the agenda, the conventions, as the theme for Georgia said, were a “Time to Celebrate.”

Information for this article was obtained by Judy Ganzert, Immediate Past International President.

Regions Elect New Officers Congratulations to our new Regional Presidents-Elect.

They are: Gulf, Lottie Roy, FL Epsilon; North Central, Nancy Bishop, NE Epsilon; Northeast, Judy Hornsby, OH Alpha; Northwest, Helen Foster, AK Alpha; South Central, Nancy Thompson, KS Alpha Alpha; Southeast, Carol Peace, TN Alpha Theta; Southwest, Mary Ann Englehart, CA Xi. These officers will serve one year as Regional PresidentElect (RPE) and one year as Regional President (RP). In the first year, these RPEs will attend and help to prepare regional conferences, serve as members of the International Membership Committee, work with state, provincial and national leaders and train with the International Vice President of her region. In her second year, she will serve as Regional President, preparing for her own regional conference. *In this transition period, the terms of office for regional presidents and regional presidents-elect will vary. Beginning in 2024, all regional RPE and RP positions will be two-year terms.

Butterflies and Fireflies in the Smoky Mountains

TN State President, Eileen Harris, wanted a unique centerpiece that would carry out the theme “Butterflies and Fireflies” for the closing banquet at the recent state convention.

Jamie Chafi, TN Chi Co-president, came up with the idea to use natural items found in the woods near her farm. She decided to turn pine cones into lilacs and zinnias of different shades of purple. Chi Chapter members painted the cones. For more color, yellow tissue paper roses were added to the pine cone flowers. No two arrangements and containers were exactly the same.

Using pine cones in the arrangements represented how the woods of the Smoky Mountains were calling members to SOAR with Alpha Delta Kappa.

Program to Get Out the Word

Bytes &

pieces

A∆K has joined with the Alzheimer’s Association in a public information campaign whose purpose is to celebrate and thank educators and increase awareness of both organizations. The Foundation Board of Directors, the International Executive Board and representatives of the 2021 Longest Day teams working with Melissa La Bonge, Longest Day Alzheimer’s Association contact coordinator, developed the voluntary pilot program. Members will share at a time and school of their choice promotional material from both organizations. Themes for display material are May’s Teacher Appreciation Week, June’s Longest Day, Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, August or September Back to School, October’s World Caregiver Week and Alzheimer’s Awareness Month.

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Chapter Anniversaries June 1-November 30

Seventieth Anniversary (Platinum) Minnesota Delta.................................. August 19, 1952

Jamaica Beta............................................. June 24, 1972

Minnesota Sustaining........................... August 20, 1952

Texas Delta Lambda............................. August 18, 1972

Minnesota Gamma............................... August 21, 1952

North Carolina Gamma Eta................. August 27, 1972

Wisconsin Sustaining........................... August 25, 1952

Hawaii Eta......................................... October 14, 1972

Illinois Theta........................................ October 4, 1952

Hawaii Theta...................................... October 14, 1972

Oklahoma Sustaining......................November 22, 1952

Illinois Beta Kappa............................. October 14, 1972 Georgia Beta Nu.............................November 11, 1972

Sixtieth Anniversary (Diamond)

Pennsylvania Pi...............................November 19, 1972

California Alpha Psi................................... June 1, 1962 Alabama Alpha Phi..................................... June 2, 1962 South Carolina Nu..................................... June 3, 1962

Fortieth Anniversary

Tennessee Alpha Gamma............................ June 6, 1962

North Carolina Gamma Nu..................... June 12, 1982

West Virginia Upsilon.............................. June 10, 1962

Texas Epsilon Zeta..................................... July 12, 1982

Ohio Alpha Gamma................................. June 14, 1962

Nebraska Alpha Zeta............................ August 22, 1982

California Beta Alpha......................September 15, 1962

Minnesota Alpha Phi.......................... October 11, 1982

North Carolina Alpha Lambda........September 29, 1962 Kentucky Theta.................................. October 18, 1962

Thirtieth Anniversary

Florida Beta Delta.............................. October 26, 1962

Virginia Beta Nu...................................... June 14, 1992

West Virginia Phi............................November 10, 1962

Alabama Gamma Beta.......................... August 20, 1992 Virginia Beta Xi.................................. October 11, 1992

Fiftieth Anniversary (Golden)

Georgia Fidelis Nu..........................November 17, 1992

Georgia Beta Mu........................................ June 4, 1972

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Vermont Beta..................................November 30, 1972

Kentucky Chi........................................... June 11, 1972

Twenty-Fifth Anniversary (Silver)

New Jersey Mu......................................... June 16, 1972

Georgia Fidelis Xi..................................... June 23, 1997

New York Alpha Beta............................... June 22, 1972

Hawaii Pi........................................September 28, 1997

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World Understanding Spreading the Love From Alpha Delta Kappa to Tanzania

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he life situations and successes of the children served program, Angel qualified for vocational training, but she had by the MAHOCE Centre in Tanzania was described a vision of becoming an entrepreneur. She went on to become

by Cam Johnson, PA Eta, at a special event hosted by a very successful commercial onion farmer. In spite of the difthe World Understanding Comficulties the two sisters faced at the mittee. The purpose of the Zoom beginning of their lives, the holismeeting was to provide informatic program provided at the Cention on Project C.H.E.A.R. The tre resulted in good outcomes for Centre founded by Cam’s son them. MAHOCE’s policy is for Joshua in 2000 is part of that each child to remain in the proproject. gram until he or she is established How the MAHOCE Centre in a career, trade or profession as helps impoverished children was an adult. shown through the stories of Mary World Understanding Chairand Angel. Their mother was alive man Grete Lima says, “Your indibut so poor that she could not vidual support and the support of support her daughters. Mary left your chapter will help MAHOCE home as a child and began workreach out to children living ing as a domestic servant. Eventuin extreme poverty with limMary, center, in the white dress, MAHOCE visit. ally, she ran away, seeking safety at ited access to education. Project MAHOCE, where she found a loving home and received a forC.H.E.A.R. (Making a Children’s Home with Education and mal education. Angel had no job and was living in extreme povAgriculture a Reality) will increase residency at MAHOCE erty. Mary was able to convince Angel to ask MAHOCE for by 11 students and add a library and technology center. It help, and Angel also became one of the MAHOCE children. will pay to educate 90 children and will increase self-sustainIn the meantime, Mary studied to become a primary teacher. ability for the Centre because food crops can be raised on the She realized that her heart’s desire was to advocate for young property.” Donations may be made online or mailed to the women, sharing what she learned at MAHOCE with others.

Alpha Delta Kappa Foundation, 1615 W. 92nd St., Kansas She now works at a non-profit in Arusha and visits MAHOCE City, MO, 64114 by July 31, 2023. Please write C.H.E.A.R. to provide services to young women there. Although Angel on the check memo line. was too old for traditional schooling, she attended the speArticle by Grete Lima, CA Beta Iota IPP, CA Secretary and cial MEMKWA class at MAHOCE. After she completed the International World Understanding Chairman, 2021-2023.

Anniversary Puzzlers

dessert?

4. What was Agnes Shipman Robertson’s favorite Delta Kappa?

3. On what date did Missouri issue a charter to Alpha level when the organization was founded?

2. What was the name given to chapters at the local an international organization?

1. What chapter’s installation made Alpha Delta Kappa

K A P PA N • J U N E 2 0 2 2

Answers to Anniversary Puzzlers.

If Alpha Delta Kappa trivia were a Jeopardy category, would YOU be a winner? Remember, answers must be in the form of a question.

1. Ontario, Alpha, 1957 2. Sub-chapters 3. August 13, 1947 4. Pie a la mode

9

A Time to Remember “Home,” it is said, “is where the heart is.” In celebration of seventy-five years of “recognizing and supporting the professional efforts of outstanding women educators,” members are invited in July 2023, to come home to Kansas City, MO, where it all began in 1947.

In the issues of the KAPPAN leading up to the International Convention, we will share those “memories in the corners of our minds” of the years since Agnes with cookies and punch in her car trunk drove across the country to spread the news of the new sorority for teachers. We want to hear your memories of those times.

Susan Pelchat, Past International President, sat down over lunch with Ruth Walsh, Past International President, to discuss the days of gloves and hats and passwords.

R

uth Walsh served as Grand President during a time of shifting paradigms. “Change is as inevitable as surely night follows day, and either we become stunted by it or we grow,” she cautioned in her President’s address at the 1989 International Convention in Nashville, TN. “To meet the personal needs of members, we must be cogent – we must be relevant – we must adapt – or we will not survive.” Attendance at Ruth’s convention was record-setting for Alpha Delta Kappa, with 2671 participants.

Forever young, Ruth Holland Walsh is the oldest living Past International President of Alpha Delta Kappa. She was initiated into CT Zeta chapter on October 21, 1967, twenty years after A∆K was established. Within ten years she became Zeta chapter president, after which she served at the state level and its six-year presidential track (1978-84). In 1983, she was elected Grand Vice President for the Northeast Region and held her regional conference in Hershey, PA. She offered for Grand Chaplain in 1985. For twenty-two years, she served continuously in one office or another. Ascending to the office of Grand President-elect in 1987, Ruth served AΔK as Grand President during the 1989-91 biennium. Her theme for the biennium was “Alpha Delta Kappa: Entry to Excellence” with a key as her logo.

To Ruth, Alpha Delta Kappa was the key, and a person’s participation in the organization was the energy required to move them along the road to excellence.

“They chose ME,” Ruth emphasized repeatedly. “I was so proud to serve and to represent this wonderful organization of outstanding women educators. I just couldn’t believe they would choose me as their leader, and I knew I had to prove I was worthy of their confidence.” Ruth admits the anticipation and the job itself were overwhelming at times, but she pushed forward and persevered to complete her job and to meet her own high stan10

dards. Her interactions with members on an individual basis will long be remem75 Years of bered. She walked around the room, every room, shaking hands and saying hello to those who had gathered for meetings or meals saying, “Hello, I’m Ruth Walsh, and I’m delighted to make your acquaintance.” Ruth couldn’t emphasize enough how important it was for members to meet leaders/officers on a more personal level.

Ruth found a mentor in Mayme Chin. They did a lot of talking outside of formal meetings. Ruth loved that Mayme could find humor in just about anything they did. Mayme would laugh and laugh, but she would be sure to share the important things people needed to know. She was very meticulous about A∆K work, and Ruth held her in high regard.

Ruth’s biennium was the first to stress a “Focus on Membership”. The boomerang logo reminded people that what they radiate to members comes back to them via positive involvement in and enthusiasm for the organization. The Focus on Membership team developed many documents about membership, including the purse-sized tri-fold brochure currently used to provide awareness of A∆K. Jan Page, IL Upsilon, served as Grand Sergeantat-Arms. She remembered that Ruth would meet every night with a core group to tell them what was planned for the next day. Ruth always wanted everyone to be informed, no surprises. As a rookie, she was amazed that Ruth would choose her to be so involved. “She didn’t know me from Adam, but she accepted me and encouraged me as part of the team, which she did with everybody,” Jan shared. “Ruth told me, ‘You’re not here just to get coffee or run copies. You have to be involved in discussions that will lead to decisions later on.’” Ruth was inclusive, instructive, and encouraging.

Even if activities did not involve her directly, she would write notes of congratulations or support when leaders stood out to her.

Communication wasn't easy. Ruth remembered her fingers being worn to a frazzle writing letters and using the telephone for many long distance calls for which one might be charged ten cents a minute or more, depending on how far the call reached.

Face to face discussions were held at biannual Grand Chapter meetings where everybody had a chance to speak, and everyone participated. “We served at a time when women were not often given the chance to lead. But as we met and got to know so many marvelous educators, there was no question but that women were so very capable of leading,” Ruth bragged.

Ruth was taken with the wonder of A∆K. “The Focus on

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Sisterhood

Continued on pg. 11

Everything I Know, I Learned While Planning a Convention or a Conference

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lexibility is the name of the game in planning a conference or convention,” according to Rita Confer, SC president.

Linda Menchetti, NY president, agrees with her. Her message to planners is, “Be flexible.”

“It takes a village to make a conference happen,” said Diane Best, IVP SWR, speaking of the Northwest-Southwest conference in Hawaii. “That village,” she says, “needs to work together as there are a lot of details to work out and compromises to be made.”

Diana Ogul, MD President, says she learned that “it is important to seek advice, ask for help, listen to others, try new ideas and laugh a lot.” As Barbara Nore, AK president advises, “Work together, listen to others, compromise and come up with a plan that works for all.” Linda Jones, OR president, said, “It is important to delegate and to use the strengths of the various sisters.”

Kathy Roberts, AR president’s advice to planners is, “Learn to delegate. You are not a one woman team.”

The meeting planners agree with Jeanne Chang, HI president, that “it was a challenge deciding whether it would be a virtual or in-person convention.” Puerto Rico President Maria Plaza agreed. “Planning one day at a time and taking risks’’ was a challenge to meet and overcome.

“COVID has changed the world around us, though these days we have come to realize that we need to be flexible and creative when we plan our events,” said Joyce McAloon, IVP NER.

Planners with the health and safety of the members in mind had Plan B’s in place if changes needed to be made. Many states offered hybrid meetings. “Sisters have found creative ways to ‘beat’ COVID through technology and program activities,” said Pat Hardin, WV president. “We are a resilient group,” said Tiffany Karnes, ME president.

All the planners agree on when planning a convention should start. Rebecca Ayers, IL president says, “Plan early, confirm and keep at it.” Ann Kay, MI president, warns, “If you can avoid it, do not plan two years ahead of schedule. Many things can change in those two years.” Linda Shaw, CT president, discovered that it was important to make “lists, lists and more lists.” Julie Correro, MS president, reminds planners, “If you wait until everything is perfect and your ducks are in a row, nothing will ever take place. Just do it.” Jennie Johnson, IA President, added, “I think one can never start too early, and if you do start early, give those involved multiple reminders and confirmations.” Nancy Martinez, AZ president, suggested, “Start planning your state convention the day after you are installed as state president.”

Julie Brown, KY president, summed up the planning experience, “Most importantly, we kept in mind that a convention is meant to be fun and a celebration of sisterhood."

Information for this article was provided by Judy Ganzert, Immediate Past International President.

A Time to Remember, continued from pg. 10 Membership initiated by board members Betty Houston and Katherine Stafford was not so much about increasing numbers as it was about being selective about who should receive an invitation to join. That made Alpha Delta Kappa all the more special.”

During Ruth’s biennium, several new things came onto the horizon: Jan Estell was introduced as the new executive administrator for the Kansas City Headquarters; the Agnes Shipman Robertson Memorial Scholarship was established and awarded at the University of Missouri Conservatory of Music, endowed

by AΔK; the first regional mini-scholarships were awarded; the Pediatric AIDS Foundation became the second International Altruistic Project; and October was set as Alpha Delta Kappa Month by vote of convention delegates in Nashville.

A∆K was just beginning to work on fraternity education, Ruth remembered. “We were more than a sorority or a social club. We created scholarships and reached out to other countries to expand our membership.” Committees worked to spread the word about Alpha Delta Kappa, which then had a

growing membership of 57,263 women.

Asked if she felt grand because of the title of her office, Ruth said, “I loved every minute of everything I did, but I think that ‘Grand’ title distanced us from members and made us seem untouchable. I didn’t have that attitude.” Ruth encouraged International leaders to get away from the head table and spend time with members, talking to them and asking for their thoughts on how Alpha Delta Kappa could be made better.

“People were afraid of the high mucky mucks. That sort of disappeared during my biennium. My daughter jokes that it would take us 20 hours to get back to our room because there were so many people along the way who wanted to say hello.

Ruth worked to dissolve barriers as an International leader.

The biennium that brought a focus on membership also brought a new level of approachability, accessibility and interest in increasing connections among members. That was Ruth Walsh’s legacy, spreading her sunshine wherever she went. “I was sorry when my office was over, but I also thought, ‘What more could I have asked for ever? My cup runneth over.’”

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11

Sisters Share their Many Gifts Share Your Gifts

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By Susan Pelchat, KAPPAN Staff, CT Mu

ach of us has a special gift or talent and no matter how we may underplay it, the way we express it can distinctly set us apart from one another. In this article, members share their special gifts and how they share them with others to entertain, inspire, motivate or just let the cares of the world go away.

“I make quilts, fabulous exciting cuddly love-stitched quilts,” touted Susan Potthoff, NH Beta. She just adores her craft. She makes quilts for members of her family for any occasion. Coming from a family of twelve children, Susan finds there is always someone ready for a quilt. Since retiring from her kindergarten position, she has made over sixty quilts. Susan grew up sewing with her mom and grandmother. She began quilting to decorate her own home, creating her own patterns and quilting on a regular machine. She finds her rewards in the joy each quilt brings and loves the photos people take with their quilts. “These stitches bind us all together,” she declares warmly.

Annette Wauchop, VA Beta Beta, loves to share her gift with others. “My gift is card-making,” she says. “I enjoy making cards and sending or giving them to people to help brighten their day. I have made cards for essential workers, doctors, nurses, firemen, teachers, children in hospitals and patients in the hospital. I recently presented a learning session at our state convention to make cards for residents at Cardinal Village, a facility for Alzheimer’s and dementia patients.” Annette loves to improve the day for people and make them smile.

Suzi Bonifay, GA Alpha Iota, became interested in art as a child and pursued courses through college. “While my interests have ranged from drawing, painting, photography, woodworking, jewelry and other crafts, I am perhaps best known for ‘pen and inks’-- primarily of historic buildings,” she said.

Suzi has sent pen and ink Christmas cards since the late 70s, some with digitally edited photographs and a few pictures in color. Recently, she colored note cards for her chapter to print as a scholarship fundraiser. She started a Member’s Show for her local Arts Council and has continued to display her art.

She has conducted clay jewelry programs for her chapter, students and others. Suzi says she spent most of her youth outdoors but credits her parents with giving her books, art supplies and encouragement. When Suzi taught handicapped high 12

schoolers in Career Tech, she dabbled in woodworking, metals and photographic silk screens etched in glass. “It was as much an education for me as the students I taught. Creating art and photographing wildlife bring me joy and, hopefully, sharing it does the same for others.”

Writing is a passion for Victoria Smith, CA Alpha. She cites that 82% of people want to write a book but only eighteen percent actually see it to fruition. Victoria is one of the latter. She is writing a children’s book. Having wanted to write for a long time, Victoria proclaims, “I’ve written about ten stories and will be publishing my first one soon.” This is her way to achieve fulfillment in retirement and to share her gift with others.

“I have a hidden talent,” revealed Diana Vasicek, MN Alpha Rho. “I play piano.” She confessed that she only shares that talent with family and that many people don’t even know she plays. However, the talent she does share is her crafting skill.

Diana has created centerpieces for scholarship teas and other events. She frequently sews items to be used as prizes or raffle items at meetings. She learned to sew at the age of seven and enjoyed passing it on to her own daughter. Now, with Pinterest, she has discovered unending ideas for making purses, gnomes, baby clothes, toys and masks. Diana is happy that she can keep busy, express her creativity and give gifts that are appreciated by others.

English and Hebrew folk songs are a forte of Ruth Shushan, ON Upsilon. As a counselor at a children’s camp, she used to lead 350 campers in rousing songs, chants and cheers. Later, as a primary educator, she used her vocal talent, accompanied sometimes by her mountain dulcimer, to lead the class as they read together the lyrics of familiar songs like ‘You are my Sunshine.’ Now retired from her role as an early literacy teacher, she uses her trained skills to teach her granddaughters the thrill of reading and writing. Over the past 12 years, Ruth has enjoyed singing and playing banjo and dulcimer in harmony with her Celtic quartet. They have performed many ‘gigs’ for nursing and retirement homes. Preparing for the performances at members’ homes once a week all year is such a creative, satisfying and enjoyable process. “But,” Ruth contends, “the greatest reward of all is seeing the faces of those with whom we share our talent and skills.”

K A P PA N • J U N E 2 0 2 2

Annette Wauchop, VA Beta Beta, loves to share her gift of card-making.

Vicki Doyle belongs to CO Alpha Iota. When she came to America at the age of seven, she was put on stage to do small skits and sing. “I think that I was young enough that I had no stage fright,” she said. Vicki loves vocal music. She has sung in choruses, glee clubs and mixed choirs and has performed in vaudeville acts. She joined a church choir and continues to sing there. Playing the piano has also been a passion. She started lessons in the fifth grade, the same year she became a US citizen, and continued to study piano through high school. She also played the pipe organ for her church and credits her parents with giving her the opportunity to make music a part of her life. “I sing because it also releases tension. I hope my audience enjoys the music and that it makes their day. I feel happy and fulfilled when I am singing.”

“I grew up in a funny family,” says Nancy Burkett, DE Epsilon. “Friends loved to hang out at our house. Humor was an important part of my life teaching high school and college. Now that I am retired, I’m checking off my Bucket List entries by getting into stand-up comedy.” Nancy performed at a few open mics before the pandemic. As restrictions were lifted, she entered and won a comedy contest. Now, she does weekly stand-up shows, several as paid gigs. Reflecting on the pandemic, she says, “It has made us realize the importance of laughter, being uplifted and hopeful.” Nancy likes to think that her new hobby contributes to that for others.

Diane Carter of VA Beta Lambda has been involved in music most of her life. She plays a little piano and studied the flute from fifth grade through three years of college. She sang with her school and church choirs and has played with the handbell choir at her church off and on since 1993. She affirms that music is a

Ruth Shushan, ON Upsilon leading campers in song.

lifetime gift which she is happy to share with others.

Edwina Aaron, AL Beta Lambda, retired in 2006 and loves to design and create. She volunteers at her school by helping in the office and creating monthly hallway bulletin boards.

After COVID protocols prohibited volunteers from entering the building, Edwina continued to create the bulletin boards which someone else mounted for her. “That way I could use my creative abilities to help without being in the building.” Her creations hang ready to be enjoyed by all.

International Executive Board member Charlene Lauria’s talents are patience and tenacity which serve her well as she pursues her love of constructing intricate Lego kits. She claims herself to be a frustrated architect who began her career with Tinker Toys and graduated to Legos. Her projects include incredible interior and exterior details which she considers to be just “another construction challenge.” One of her proudest builds involved models of the Saturn V rocket and the Lunar Lander. The rocket had 1,969 pieces in honor of the year of the first manned lunar landing. In 2019, the town librarian asked Charlene to arrange a display at the library to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Neil Armstrong’s “one small step”, and both space travel models were proudly and prominently displayed. Charlene’s hobby is no small coincidence given that her hometown of Enfield, CT is the North American Headquarters of Lego. She feels her pleasing pursuits support the local economy and that just keeps her building.

Whatever your talent or skill, when you share it with others, its impact and your satisfaction increase. “This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine.” Don’t forget to let your light shine for yourself and others.

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13

The Gift of Teaching Share Your Gifts

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By Brigitte Tennis, WA Beta Iota

eaching is an art and a gift. Not everyone can do it well, although many believe they can. When the art of teaching is honed, refined and elevated, it is nothing short of a wondrous gift.

You know the feeling. You wait anxiously in your classroom for your charges to enter – elementary, middle school, or high school – the feeling is the same. In my middle school classroom, students often entered class shuffling along while they chatted with their friends, unaware of the gift I was preparing to bestow upon them. They took their seats, and I saw a glimmer of hope in their eyes as they sensed something was about to happen.

One year, I had a student named Andrew. Oh, he was one I’ll never forget. Andrew came to class a week later than everyone else because his family had just moved. He was outfitted in a camo shirt, khaki pants, combat boots and a mambo sock crammed on his head. He was ready for battle. Not 20 minutes later, Andrew flung his desk to one side, stood up and loudly announced, “I don’t want to learn nuthin.” The battle had begun. My class was silent as they waited to see what my next move would be. As calmly as I could, I gave instructions to read the next page in the history textbook and asked Andrew to step outside in the hall with me. I have never kicked a student out of class, and I was not going to begin now. I asked Andrew why he did not want to learn history, and he glared at me in defiance saying it was “just old stuff that did not matter,” adding that it was “boring” (the dreaded word of all teachers) and he never did well in that subject anyway. I tried to explain that history is important as we can see patterns and learn from those. I did not receive a response. Finally, I told Andrew that I wanted him in my class, but I could not allow him to disrupt the learning of the other students. Then, I made a deal with him. If he was open to learning the lessons for a period of three weeks and he still felt the same way, he could transfer out of my class. For my part, I would try to make the lessons relevant and interesting. He nodded and stomped off to his next class.

For the next three weeks, I worked harder than I ever had.

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I learned an important lesson from Andrew. Good teaching is really a gift. As I planned the lessons on the ancient Roman Empire, I incorporated music and a cooking lesson on pasta. I brought in little stoves for students to cook on and even organized the building of a 300-foot aqueduct made of PVC piping outside one afternoon. Then, one day about three weeks into the quarter, it happened. I had my back to the classroom door writing up the schedule as the students shuffled in and took their seats. They chatted noisily as they came in and all of a sudden, I heard a deep voice say, “Dude guys, shut up; she’s going to teach about Julius Caesar today.” I did not need to turn around because I already knew who it was. It was Andrew.

With a smile on my face and dressed in a toga, I began to unfold the story of the great Julius Caesar who became the dictator of Rome. Slowly and carefully, I unwrapped this gift until I read an excerpt from the Shakespeare play which described his tragic death. The room was silent. A moment of awe hung in the air, and I recognized the gift I had given not only to Andrew, but also to all of the students. My efforts to refine my own art had become a gift, the gift of learning that students would take with them. Then, without warning, the room exploded with applause. I would like to think that Andrew was the first to start clapping, but I am not really sure who it was.

Years later, I got a letter from Andrew. He had gone to Italy to become a chef. He thanked me for giving him a chance to learn in my class, and he said that my lessons had inspired him to learn to cook in Italy. I was so proud.

Now that I am retired, I still give my gift. You can too.

Being a master teacher can transcend into many things. Do you enjoy gardening? Teach someone. Do you love music?

Play for someone. Do you love cooking? Show someone else how to or cook for the people that are often forgotten, such as the postmaster, retirement home employees or Ace hardware employees. How about sewing? Make a quilt for someone or knit baby socks for the local shelter. Through the art of teaching, you can deliver joy to multitudes. Yup, teaching is truly a gift.

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The Gift of Wisdom Share Your Gifts

By Betty Sherrod, KAPPAN staff writer

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My Mother Always Said….

mit Kalantri, author, wrote, “A mother is your first friend, your best friend, your forever friend.” During our youth, we may hear our mothers saying the same things to us over and over again. Reminders, advice and wise sayings are a part of a mother’s nurturing spirit. She uses quotes that she may have heard when she was young, so they flow easily off of her tongue. As we grow older, the words of our mothers return to us during times of stress, sadness, loneliness or happiness. Our A∆K Sisters were asked to submit some of their favorite “Mom Quotes.”

Kathy Beatty of VA Gamma Epsilon shared, “My mother tells me that I am ‘burning the candle at both ends.’ She told me that as a teenager, young adult and even now. I guess I still haven’t mastered that advice.”

Kim Gloede of WI Tau, stated, “My mother always told me, ‘you get what you dish out.’ This, of course, was her version of Karma. If you are angry toward others, they will be angry in return. If you treat people with kindness, they will be kind to you.”

Ivette Bender of NE Theta shared a well known quote that her mother used: “Treat others as you want to be treated.”

WA Alpha Nu Sister, Mary Jane Henderson shared, “When my siblings and I were not getting along, our mom would always tell us to love one another because, you’ll have friends, but your siblings will be with you for life. My sister and two brothers learned her lesson well. We are very close and try to honor her memory every day.”

Joyce Boone of WV Epsilon remembers that her mother always told her that when she had lost something to stop and think about the last place she was when she had the item.

When she did that, she usually found what was missing. “I still do it to this day. It works,” she said.

SC Alpha sister Jean Danner was raised by her father. He reminded her often to always do her best. “Others will see that effort and help you along,” he said. Jean has found that to be true in her personal and professional life. When she set goals, she always found there was a mentor present to push her over the finish line.

“Mom would always say, ‘’Don’t make eye contact’ when I would be driving us somewhere. It eliminated any chance of

road rage,” shared Charlene Lauria, International Executive Board member.

KY Alpha Theta Sister, Jan Martin’s mother “always told me to sit up straight and eat all of my food. Those were the days of all the starving children in China.”

Alice Hall’s mother used to say, “every lady needs a nice hanky.” The FL Delta Kappa Sister went on to share, “she would put a hanky in every birthday, Easter, Mother’s Day, anniversary and Christmas card she sent my sister and me.”

Alice and her sister continue the tradition and give each other a new hankerchief on special occasions and gift them to other women in their community.

“My mother was a teenager during the Great Depression, and she and her family struggled for food and clothing. Only that which could not be eaten or worn any longer was thrown away,” said Anne Brooks, FL Gamma Omicron. “A saying that has stuck in my memory is ‘Take the scraps out,’ rather than take the trash out. She carries her mother’s advice with her today as she is frugal and judicious about the environment.

MS Alpha Theta Sister Vicki Vaughn’s mother passed away at 96 years of age, but Vicki remembers her mother always saying, “I love you more than anything else in the world. Make sure you tell your children that.”

Carla Nations, MS Alpha, and Rebecca Jane Beltz, LA Alpha Sigma, had mothers who thought alike as they both told their daughters, “If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all.”

Susan Rae Long, WY Delta, shared, “My mother wrote inside my graduation gift, ‘Remember the world we live in--it’s mighty hard to beat.’” Another quote her mother often spoke was, “You get a thorn with every rose, but aren’t the roses sweet?”

Ruby Strother (FL Tau) said that her mother always told her, “Find a way, or make one.”

Our mothers and fathers may well be our first teachers.

Our A∆K sisters have shared many “old sayings” that seem to have been passed from generation to generation. Give credit to the parents who inspired their children through thoughtful and simple quotes, because many of us have tucked those words away, but can pull them forth at just the right time.

Thanks, Mom and Dad, for your gifts of wisdom.

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15

Sharing the Love of the Game Share Your Gifts

By Annie Yankus, President FL Alpha Alpha,

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cratch golfer, handicap and par for the course are part of the everyday vocabulary of Christina Steffen, FL Alpha Alpha.

For over 25 years, she has shared her knowledge and love of the game with students at Fernandina Beach High School, where she is the head golf coach. In fact, she heard about A∆K from chapter members who were also golfers.

“I started playing golf at 12 when my family moved to Florida from Oregon. I won my first junior tournament that summer and was hooked on the game. I received an athletic scholarship to play golf at Coastal Carolina University. After graduation, I returned home and began subbing in the local elementary schools. I became a volunteer assistant girls’ golf coach at my former high school, Fernandina Beach High School. The following year, I was hired as head girls’ golf coach. I took over the boys’ program eighteen years ago. Both programs have been very successful. The girls have eleven district golf titles and ten state final appearances. The boys’ golf team has eight district golf titles and five state final appearances. In 2021, the girls’ golf team ranked number one in Florida all season and finished

runner-up at the state golf finals. The boys’ golf team was in the top ten in the state all season and finished seventh at the state golf finals. I love the game of golf and absolutely love coaching high school golf. Next year, I will have six of my former players playing at the college level, following in my footsteps, and I couldn’t be prouder.”

Christina is an elementary school teacher and a Violet Sister, having joined FL Alpha Alpha in 2012. Her sisters are confident she will continue to share her love of teaching, coaching and belonging to Alpha Delta Kappa. Christina will serve as membership chairman for the chapter next biennium.

Chaplain's Thoughts

By Judy Barnhill, 2023 International Convention Chaplain, TN Beta Zeta

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Sharing Your Gifts

ne of the things that warms my heart is to see the look of sheer joy on the face of a child when they receive a long wished-for gift. Why not consider sharing a “gift” with your sisters? The gifts you share best are the gifts with which you have been “gifted.” Never forget, each one of you has special gifts. Use those gifts to make someone smile. A kind word, a sweet note or simply a smile or a hug can be a great gift to brighten a sister’s day.

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Sister Tales

Sharing the Gift of Sisters

By Kimberly Dailey, IL Iota

In 1969, my mom brought home my baby sister, Laura. She an oven in her culture is a rarity? Usually, only the town baker was my only sibling for 45 years. Then, in 2014 all that changed. has an oven. Ha was thrilled that my mom actually had an oven I’ve been a member of IL Iota since 1991. I was invited to join in her kitchen and she couldn’t wait to learn to bake bread, pies by my mom, Joyce Ann, who had joined at and other treats. SIU was only a two hour the invitation of her college friend, Mary. drive from our hometown so we were able In an instant, I was surrounded by many to pick up Ha to join us for holidays and sisters in education who were determined celebrations. She came home as often as to make a difference. Over the years, we she could and soon became more than a raised money, gave scholarships, supported guest; she was part of our family. local charities and assisted with needs that Those two years flew by and about would arise in our community and beyond. the time we braced ourselves for goodThen, in 2014, our chapter was byes, she was offered the opportunity to approached with an opportunity to host work on her PhD in North Carolina. This an A∆K International Teacher Education would extend her stay for five more years (ITE) scholar, a Fulbright award winner and, though it was more than a two hour who was registered to attend SIU-Carboncar drive away, she was able to fly “home” dale. It was a two year commitment to pro- Kimberly Dailey, IL Iota Joyce, Ha, Kim and for the holidays and breaks. In the seven vide connection for this student while she Laura share the joy of sisterhood years that we’ve known Ha, Laura and I completed her master’s degree. My mom count her as our sister and my parents have stepped up and encouraged our chapter to take this opportunity, gained another daughter. Her Iota chapter aunts look forward to but it would evolve into something much more than just another hearing updates and enjoying a visit now and again. When other project. exchange students ask how she was able to connect with our famHa (pronounced like the “ha” in “happy”) arrived in St. ily, she proudly tells them all about Alpha Delta Kappa.

Louis from Vietnam in July, 2014. My parents, who offered to Ha recently graduated with her PhD and a heart for educatake the lead on hosting, picked her up from the airport. Later tion. I expect wherever she takes her expertise, she will succeed. that day, I drove over to their home to meet our new guest. Ha I’m not worried about saying goodbye anymore. She is my siswas very excited about this new learning opportunity and we ter and no matter where she ends up, she will always be home in seized the chance to learn from her. Did you know that owning time to help bake pies for the holidays.

A∆K Purpose To honor outstanding women educators.

To strengthen the education profession through commitment to diversity and inclusion practices that respect and value each person for their unique qualities.

To nurture relationships and networking opportunities.

To enrich personal and professional development.

To support altruistic projects, grants and scholarships with time and resources.

To embrace cultural differences and make an impact through world understanding.

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Sister Tales

Mission Story Is Her Mission

By Karen Kirby, CA Gamma Mu

Gifts of Fun and Friendship

by Rachel Huft-Johnson, President FL Epsilon Delta

The gifts of fun and friendship are two of my and my FL Epsilon Delta sisters’ favorite gifts. We were able to share them recently when we hosted the District 1 Spring meeting in Panama City Beach, FL. We used my president’s biennium theme “Strong Women Impact Many - SWIM” as the theme of the meeting. The fellowship hall of Cornerstone Baptist Church was decorated with colorful nets, beach sayings on bottles and shells and rocks. Some of the bottle sayings were Beach Life is Best, Mermaids Welcome, and When All Else Fails, Be a Mermaid. Our napkins had a saying on them too. They read, “Friends are like seashells; no two are exactly alike, but each is a precious treasure!”

Everyone was asked to wear their favorite beach attire. My chapter members wore flowered button-down shirts with sunglasses on our heads.

My favorite part of the meeting was rekindling friendships and making new ones as we mingled and took pictures with one another. Pictures were taken at an area set up as a photobooth complete with beach themed props. Many chapters joined in the fun. The memories made with my chapter sisters and other chapters bring me joy. What treasured memories we made while sharing our gifts of fun and friendship with our sisters.

The definition of a docent is a person who leads guided tours through a museum or art gallery, usually as a volunteer. My journey as a docent began soon after I retired. I became a docent at Mission San Juan Capistrano, the seventh of the twenty-one missions established in California in the 1700’s in what would become Orange County, California.

In 1988, I developed an Orange County study unit for third graders which I shared with other teachers through the Orange County Department of Education. The opportunity to interpret our county’s history at such a beautiful landmark was a natural choice for this retired educator.

For ten years, once or twice a week, I led tours through the mission’s grounds, telling its stories along the way. A storyteller by nature, I reveled in my docent role. I told the story of Father Serra, the Franciscan priest charged by King Carlos of Spain with the task of establishing the missions. I described the life of the local indigenous, pre-Spanish Acagchemem. I told of the terrible earthquake in 1806 that destroyed the Great Stone Church and took the lives of forty people. Every building, artifact and former resident had a story to tell and it was my duty and honor to do so.

The best reward was the opportunity to work with children again. Being a docent gave me my “kid fix” for an hour at a time, and then I returned the children to their teacher. It is said, “Once a teacher, always a teacher.” As a docent, I was able to combine my love for teaching, my joy in working with children and my knowledge of local history.

Karen Kirby is a California Past President. She has shared her work as a docent in learning sessions at conferences and conventions.

She taught for 33 years in GATE Magnet Schools in California. She is a Violet Sister.

Back row of Epsilon Delta picture from Left to Right: Sheila Scofield-Roland, AJ Bezenyei, Adrian Baxley, Linda Landen, Linda Prater, Billie Borgquist, Rebecca Brown; Middle Row: Rachel Huft-Johnson; Front Row: Carolyn Dehner, Linda Mills, Ruth Martin, Leslie Lee, Carolyn Morgan, Patty Turbeville On Mission San Juan Capistrano grounds: Karen Kirby, left, with fellow docent Tammy Chandler, wearing their traditional docent colors of red, black and white along with their iconic Spanish hats.

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Alpha Delta Kappa: A Family Affair

How CA Beta Eta Continues to Connect

The only reason I joined Alpha Delta Kappa in 2015 was to have an excuse to spend more time with my mother, or Mom Hawkins as we lovingly call her, who joined in 1999. I had grown up sitting in school libraries while my mom had her meetings and the women of NV Alpha chapter became a family to me. When I went to college, I knew I wanted to be a teacher just like my Jamie Hawkins (left, NV Eta) and mom. Well, not just like her.

Becky Hawkins (right, NV Alpha) at Mom Hawkins was an elea 2019 state conference mentary teacher and I cannot fathom working with the littles. I moved 500 miles away from Las Vegas to Reno for college and stayed.

I got a job as a middle school English teacher at my dream school straight out of college. Because I was so far from my family, but thankfully in the same state, joining Alpha Delta Kappa felt like a great idea. I would be able to see Mom Hawkins multiple times throughout the year at sorority events. I joined Eta chapter in Reno.

I went to chapter meetings, celebrated Founders’ Day alongside my mom and participated in a few other events in order to see her, but I felt no great affinity toward the organization that was bringing us closer together. That changed in the summer of 2017 when I went to New Orleans to my first International Convention. I had grown up knowing how wonderful the women of NV Alpha were and I immediately loved my NV Eta sisters. Finally seeing so many amazing women from all across globe immediately turned me on my head. At that convention, I met so many kind, creative and caring women educators. I was no longer a member of Alpha Delta Kappa just for Mom Hawkins. I had come to realize the part I played in a greater whole. At that convention then International President Ruth Ann Griggs told me, “Once you’ve gone to an International or Regional, you get it.” Boy, did I get it.

After returning home, I jumped into our organization with both feet. I took on the chapter president-elect role, volunteered to be a state officer, received the Nevada Excellence in Education award and, in April, became my state’s president. The kicker is, though there are a few mother-daughter dynamic duos in our wonderful organization, Mom Hawkins and I are the first pair to serve as back-to-back state presidents. She has just finished her biennium and handed me the reins. I am certainly the luckiest new state president as I am following such an amazing woman. I could not ask for a better mentor. We’ve had such clear communications during the transition.

It is so wonderful to be able to spend time with my mom in a world-changing venue, and I will forever be indebted to Alpha Delta Kappa for bringing my mom closer to me.

Recently, I read the new book “Emotional Agility” by Dr. Susan David, PhD. She explores core values and how they guide us in life. Those reflections brought to mind why I joined Alpha Delta Kappa’s CA Beta Eta chapter in 2015.

A lifetime value for me has been connection with, and service to, my community. My A∆K involvement complements those values while with sisters who understand my lifetime passion for education.

During the COVID shutdown, feeling connected to our Beta Eta sisters and serving our community was possible, but not as easy, so our California chapter had to “think outside the box” to make it happen.

One way we promoted connection was with periodic emails encouraging our sisters to call and text each other as well as to send cards. As a result of one of those calls, President Kathleen Waffle discovered a sister was anxious about changing grade levels, so Kathleen invited her over and via “social distancing” shared a cup of tea and helpful tips for the new assignment. Others met in small groups for lunch when outdoor dining opened. Another fun activity was “Sizzling Summer Secret Sisters” where we sent boxes of treats and cards to a special sister whose name we (virtually) picked out of a hat and, using all our will-power, kept our identities secret until we revealed ourselves at the end of the summer.

Our chapter’s retired sisters, aka our “SWAT Team ‘’ (Sisters Willing, Able To…help) were particularly concerned about our working sisters and their intense feelings of frustration, overwhelmed and isolated as they navigated the new world of teaching online full-time. When they returned to their schools, the changing COVID restrictions/guidelines were difficult. We tackled this particular concern by creating Boxes of Love, Boxes of Encouragement and Valentine Love Boxes. In December, a small group got together in my garage, which provided a safe environment and put together Holiday Boxes filled with individually wrapped gifts and personal notes of empathy and encouragement. Each of our members had already filled out “My Interests and Likes” pages so we knew what items they might appreciate receiving. These were fun, small-group activities, and our working sisters felt valued and appreciated by their retired sisters.

CA Beta Eta sisters continue to look for enriching and creative ways to remind each other that we are a SISTERhood of women educators committed to supporting and serving each other and our community. As proud Alpha Delta Kappa members, we value each other and the strength our sisterhood provides to each of us.

By Jamie Hawkins, NV Eta, NV State President 2022-24

By Teresa Heitmiller Olea, CA Beta Eta President-elect 2020-2022

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Why We Support the Alzheimer’s Association and The Longest Day

By Sandy Wolfe, Alpha Delta Kappa Foundation Chairman, VA Alpha Rho

S

ince 2016, Alpha Delta Kappa members have participated in the Alzheimer’s Association’s The Longest Day activities, collecting $763,000 in donations to help fund research, early detection, support and quality care. Could this be the year when our cumulative donations top $1,000,000?

The summer solstice on June 21 is known as the day with the most light. People around the world will be working to fight the darkness of Alzheimer’s by participating in The Longest Day through fundraising activities of their choice. Some members share their reasons for supporting The Longest Day: Sandy Wolfe, A∆K Foundation Chairman, VA Alpha Rho – My dad is my reason, my inspiration for participating in The Longest Day. Dad had an active lifestyle golfing, fishing, gardening, grilling, meeting new people and playing cards and dice games. In his later years he suffered with memory issues. The formerly outgoing gentleman became quiet and withdrawn. Dad had spent his entire work career in finance, yet in his 80s he could no longer consistently balance his checkbook.

While Dad was in assisted living, we would play his favorite dice game, 10,000.

On some days, he could count the score for each roll of the dice; other days, he said with a laugh that I was cheating if my score was higher than his. It was an activity that he enjoyed until a few months before his passing. Online Alzheimer’s resources helped me understand the changes Dad was undergoing. On June 21, I'll be working in my garden with my herbs, remembering how much Dad enjoyed caring for his garden, especially his prized tomato and parsley plants.

Mary Jane Henderson, WA Alpha Nu – Although my husband suffered from another form of dementia, I became well aware of how life-changing memory-related illness can be. The person you love becomes someone completely different. It is as though you lose them before they actually pass away. Supporting organizations that are working to find a cure and assist those living with these challenges is very important.

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Pat Watkins, FL A∆K Team Captain – In 2006, I lost my mother to Alzheimer’s. She must have had it for many years, but she was very good at hiding the signs and symptoms. When we became aware, I took her for testing and got the diagnosis – Alzheimer’s. She lived with us after that, and we saw the effects every day. When we felt she needed more care than we could give her, we moved her to a nursing home. A little over a month later, she was gone. I know how devastating the disease is for the afflicted, but also for the caregiver. I understand the importance of finding a cure.

Jennifer Thomas, VA Gamma Iota – I participate in The Longest Day to honor the memory of a very special aunt.

Although I didn't see her often, she was still very dear to me. She was hospitalized near the end of her illness, and I was able to visit her before she passed. It was hard to hold her hand and look into her eyes when she had no recognition of me.

I participate to raise awareness of this disease, and I hope that someday there will be a cure.

Robin Miller, TX Gamma Nu – The Alzheimer’s Longest Day is not only an International Altruistic project, but also a project near and dear to my heart. I have a TX Gamma Nu sister with whom I taught for many years who currently has Alzheimer’s. She was one of the funniest, big-hearted people I knew. Today, Alzheimer’s has changed my dear friend. She is being taken care of by her wonderful husband, who has shared that the Alzheimer’s Association has been a lifeline for him. I have, at times, used their counseling services to discuss my friend. They are a wonderful resource for friends and family. Needless to say, The Longest Day project is important to me and all of the Texas sisters who have similar situations.

Christine Phillips, SC A∆K Team Captain – My participation in The Longest Day as an individual and as a team captain is two-fold. It began as a way to honor my older sister, Genelle, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease about eight years ago. The more I participated, the more I learned about this hor-

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rible disease. Now, I am raising money to help support Alzheimer’s/dementia patients and caregivers and to find a cure so that this disease will no longer steal the minds and memories of future generations.

Charlene Lauria, International Executive Board Member – Although he was never formally diagnosed, my Dad’s actions and words were in keeping with the actions of someone going through the stages of Alzheimer’s. This strong, mentally sharp former Marine started asking us to cash in non-existing winning lottery tickets and becoming enraged when we would gently point out that there was no such ticket. Whether it was this or giving us invisible money to buy them or reaching for peanuts that were not there to pop into his mouth to be chewed, we watched as Dad slipped from us. When he suffered a minor stroke and fell, the hospital stay was almost a guilty relief because he was now being cared for by professionals, and it was this group that told us that Alzheimer’s was probably in the picture. Yes, we felt awful for feeling that way, but my Dad was a 6’2”, strong, raging bull when his “sessions'' hit and the safety of the family came into play.

He died shortly after the stroke, never coming back home again, and the final diagnosis was made. I watched Dad and at least two uncles suffer this terrible affliction. The Longest Day activities and support for the Alzheimer’s Association help to relieve other families having to watch their loved ones endure this disease.

Joanne Tindall, TN Beta Theta – I participate in the Longest Day because I want to spread the word about Alzheimer's disease and dementia and provide support for my close friends and family who have been devastated by this terrible disease.

Glad Loreen, WA Beta Alpha, Northwest Mentor to the PEs and Ps – Participation in the Longest Day has a sacred place in my annual giving. I think of it as Past, Present and Future. Past: remembering colleagues and friends who have been brilliant as mentors and educators, but who had declines that changed their participation significantly, and gave me the opportunity to support them and their families. Present: planning with family and colleagues for how we put resources in place to handle our declines with grace. Future: commitment to contribute to funding that supports research to advance diagnosis and treatment. Taking part in the Longest Day as a quilter is so meaningful.

Joyce McAloon, International Vice President Northeast Region – In this world there are so many things that can affect a person’s life and change that life forever. As a survivor myself, I realized that the importance of finding a cure for something is what makes a difference in our world. When one of our Connecticut sisters was starting to develop symptoms of Alzheimer’s, it affected us all. We asked why but received no answers except that we need to find a cure to help others. Through the years that Alpha Delta Kappa has supported this cause, I participated. I did the walks; I did the work. I even planted flowers with my granddaughter who always wants to be part of things. I want her to know that taking part in

You Can Join in the Fight

Alpha Delta Kappa’s 2022 TLD goal is to exceed the 2021 total of $222,642. It’s not too late to register your team at alz. org/adk to ensure your team’s donations count toward Alpha Delta Kappa’s grand total. Select Alpha Delta Kappa and follow the on-screen instructions. Select an activity, start raising funds and ask others to join you. You’ll receive a participant guide in the mail and you can also use the online resources to find lots of fun fundraising ideas. The final date to submit all donations is August 31, 2022.

things that make a difference makes us stronger and helps so many people. So, you ask why do I participate in The Longest Day? My answer is always as a survivor, you continue to help those in need and continue to support the missions of all organizations fighting diseases, which is to find a cure.

Elizabeth McQueen, Ontario President – It has become a tradition for Ontario A∆K Chapters to participate in the IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s. Rather than in June, when The Longest Day is honored by American chapters, the Ontario walk happens in May. This year we are counting our steps throughout the month of May, honoring those people in Ontario who live with Alzheimer’s, estimated at 240,000.

Several A∆K sisters have personal connections to Alzheimer’s, either experiencing the effects of dementia in a family member or friend, or seeing the struggle of caregivers. Many of us are at the age where we have recently lost a parent who suffered from dementia. It is very difficult to see a person who has been so capable in life struggle with the characteristics of dementia, all the while knowing this person was so instrumental in who we, ourselves, have become.

The prevalence of this disease in society illustrates the importance of funding research to find a cure. The Alzheimer’s Society of Canada writes, “Research is getting us closer every day to finding the cause and cures for Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, as well as new and effective approaches to improving care and quality of life for those living with dementia.” This is why so many of us walk – to remember the wonderful person who will always be with us and to provide hope going forward in finding a cure.

Mollie Acosta, International President – My sister-in-law was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's in 2016. A few months later, she was diagnosed with breast cancer, a recurrence from a bout with it 25 years earlier. My brother has done an amazing job caring for her and dealing with both diagnoses. As we know, any additional stress generally exacerbates Alzheimer's manifestations.

Listening to and watching my brother and knowing his heartache has made finding a cure for Alzheimer's and other dementias a passion of mine. I am very proud of Alpha Delta Kappa's support of the Alzheimer's Association and The Longest Day (TLD).

I know progress is being made in the fight against Alzheimer's.

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⚡

AMAZING MEMBERS

Mary Elizabeth Sharma, Educator in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Your Word is “Wordnesia”

Pablo Picasso, one of the most influential artists of the 20th century said, “Every child is an artist.

The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.” International Sustaining Chapter Member, Elizabeth Sharma, believes this is true, and her approach to teaching art follows this mindset.

Elizabeth shared, “I had wonderful teachers in my high school.”

One teacher told her that she would make a great educator, and she followed that advice. “It’s been a good fit for me,” she said.

She had never visited Asia, so she decided to go there and teach.

She knew how difficult it was to be a long distance from home, but she also knew that Cambodia had an active expatriate community. She has been in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, since August of 2021. Prior to her move to Cambodia, Elizabeth had taught all over the world, sharing her gifts in Arizona, Hawaii and Germany. She plans on teaching internationally until she retires. “I think I have at least another 15 years left to explore new countries and cultures,” she shared during our email interview.

Born and raised in Arizona, Elizabeth graduated from Northern Arizona University with a Bachelor of Science in Education. She has taught every grade level from preschool through high school and has been a classroom teacher, a specialist teacher and an administrator. An educator in Arizona, Hawaii, Germany, and Cambodia, in public, private, charter and a Department of Defense School, she was awarded an ING (Illinois National Guard) grant for Financial Literacy and helped to create a public work of art for the town of Gilbert, AZ. Currently, she teaches art in grades five through eleven. As well as teaching, she is working on her international baccalaureate certificate and her master’s degree in art education.

Elizabeth considers her role as an educator in Cambodia a “dream position.” Her students are respectful, the environment is modern and clean, and she is able to get all of the supplies that she needs. In America, she had difficulty with student behavior and had to cover three different schools. Most of her students were, however, happy to come to her art class.

Being a member of an A∆K chapter is difficult now, so she became a sustaining member and enjoys staying in touch with her sisters. In her spare time, Elizabeth loves to travel, sew and participate in community theater.

Interview by Betty Sherrod, VA Gamma Omicron, KAPPAN Staff writer.

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Have you ever wondered how you would prepare to be a pronouncer in a Spelling Bee? Have you wondered how you would effectively read detailed definitions that are filled with unfamiliar technical vocabulary? If you have, then VA Gamma Omicron sister, Knikki Hernandez, would be the A∆K sister to ask.

Knikki, a high school Spanish teacher in Greene County VA, has been the official pronouncer for Charlottesville’s The Daily Progress Spelling Bee Regional Final for the past five years. She believes that this event is academically challenging and a positive experience for students. “It’s also one of those events that brings a community together,” she says. She further believes that it is a celebration of the ambition and hard work that go into a scholastic competition.

For Knikki, the hard work begins about three weeks before the competition.

After receiving the official 500 word list, she identifies especially challenging words and begins her research. She says, “The pronunciation is obviously key.” She looks up the words, listens to their pronunciations and becomes familiar with the definitions.

She spends many hours preparing so that when she walks to the podium to assume her role, she is confident, but there is still pressure. “I want to do the best possible job for the kids. I don’t want to let them down.”

Knikki says that it’s when the spellers ask for a definition that her job can become more difficult, but that’s when her preparation really shows. An average spelling bee competition can easily be three hours long. Knikki says, “I have to be ‘on’ the whole time. As an educator, I take great pride in being part of an event where I see kids who are invested in their future. I’m proud of their accomplishments, and I know they have spent many hours preparing for the bee. Seeing them excel on stage is where I get my fulfillment. That’s why I love the spelling bee so much.”

Who knows? With enthusiasm like that, we may one day see Knikki Hernandez pronouncing for the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Her Alpha Delta Kappa sisters would certainly want to be there to support her.

Wordnesia is the phenomenon of blanking on the spelling or pronunciation of a common word, a problem Knikki does not have.

Article by Rosamond Vaughan, VA Gamma Omicron CoPresident.

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The KAPPAN Congratulates Classroom Grant, a Gift to Students

“Classroom grants touch not only teachers but students’ lives and help in their education in so many ways,” said Rachel Shankles, International Vice President, South Central Region, in describing the gift that the Alpha Delta Kappa Classroom Grants bring.

Candy Richardson, TX Beta Nu, used her $400 grant to purchase an iPad for use by her hearing impaired students. Cindy explained, “I did not have access to any technology for my students. Visuals are vital to their needs. My students need a picture to pair with words or even concepts. The age of the students I am working with guides the use of the iPad. I teach my students to look up unfamiliar words starting at a young age.”

The iPad gave her students at Wake Village Elementary School in Texarkana, TX, instant access to an extensive collection of photos. “Thank you for awarding my students this opportunity,” Candy said in her thank you note to Rachel.

Making A Better World Initiative Top Five Named

South Carolina Member Receives Powers Award

Christine Phillips, SC Alpha Beta, is the recipient of the Alzheimer’s Association’s Linda Powers Global Team Outstanding Leadership Award for 2021. She received the award in January at the AΔK Celebration and the 2022 The Longest Day (TLD Kickoff. Christine is the captain of the SC Together We Can AΔK global team and is the Southeast Region Altruistic Chairman.

The newly created award is given in memory of Linda Powers who, working with the American Contract Bridge League, has been a tireless fundraiser for The Longest Day. Nominations and selections are by TLD Advisory Council.

Christine said, “I am humbled, surprised and honored to receive this award and can only accept on behalf of each individual sister across the state of South Carolina who, as a member of Together We Can, gives generously year after year and embraces the battle to end Alzheimer’s.”

The top five 2022 Making a Better World Initiative submissions were recently announced by the World Understanding Committee. The chapters and their projects are: LA Beta Eta, Sustainable Farming in Honduras; MI Alpha Kappa, Nepal Schools Project; WV Eta, Friends of Fort Liberte Jerusalem Baptist Church School; VA Lambda, World Understanding Book Club; OH Sigma, Different Colours, Different Cultures, One World.

The Initiative is an annual recognition of outstanding programs, projects and activities that make a significant contribution to cross-cultural learning and relationships, and increases awareness and involvement in global issues.

Submissions include a 250 word or less summary of the program, project or activity, stating the objectives, outcomes, benefits and sustainability of the initiative and are adjudicated by the World Understanding Committee. Each participant receives a certificate of commendation. The top five submissions may be featured in workshops at Alpha Delta Kappa conferences and conventions.

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Lisa Carter, FL Gamma Tau, was selected by the Volusia School Counselor Association as one of their outstanding school counselors.

She has served as chapter treasurer for two years, has been active in the chapter food drive, and helps in the local homeless shelter .

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A∆K A Golden Sister Enjoys the Gift of A∆K

"I am an Alpha Delta Kappa gal and proud of it,” said Mary Jane Bowlin, a Golden Sister and a member of VA Beta Chi. She is proud of what A∆K has accomplished over the years. Her sisters in her original chapter, VA Beta, ”pushed, shoved and lovingly encouraged me,” said Mary Jane. She credits Edith Wray, Virginia Lewis and Peggy Hank for their support which helped her assume leadership roles at the chapter and state levels.

Mary Jane has many wonderful memories of A∆K activities, but shared that one of her favorites was when she had the honor of chairing the state convention, serving with Florence Bishop.

She had been singing with the Richmond Choral Society and the Sweet Adelines and remembers singing for many years in the VA State Convention Chorus with Doris King, Omega Chapter. The opportunity to travel and to grow and “bloom” has happened because of the love shared through her sisters.

Mary Jane summed up her feelings about A∆K. “What a wonderful legacy Agnes left us. The impact this organization has had on me as a teacher and in my personal life has been so rewarding, surprising and full of unexpected pleasures and adventures.”

She realizes now that she is one sister in a group of so many, “a small spoke in a big wheel.” The changes she has witnessed, especially access to technological advances, she says, have enhanced the organization at every level.

VA Beta Chi will celebrate their Golden Sister soon.

NC Beta Chapter

NC Beta sisters enjoyed a voyage to "The Wonderful World of Tea" at a recent meeting. The program was presented

by Tealightful Company representative, Martha Isenberg, the daughter of an Alpha Delta Kappa sister. She introduced the sisters to three teas - one black, one green and one herbal (infusion), which they sipped while enjoying tea party treats. Martha explained the methods of growing and fermenting tea as well as the proper way to brew it. She also discussed the many physical, spiritual and emotional benefits of various teas. By the end of the program, all agreed that teachers would do well to enjoy a soothing cup of tea each day.

NC Iota Sisters Celebrate Longevity

NC Iota held three special ceremonies to honor and celebrate membership milestones for sisters in the chapter. Pictured is new Sapphire Sister Martha Matthews. Also honored were Silver Sister Renee Friday and Violet Sisters Tammy Ortiz, Pam Deal, Renee Friday, Katrina Wallace and Jane Hudson.

MN Psi

MN Psi has a busy schedule of altruistic projects. At the chapter’s first in person meeting, the members learned how to crochet plastic bags into sleeping mats for the homeless. The sisters will donate to Tales for Tots, a program to provide books for newborns at the local hospital, and to the Little Red Bookshelf, a program that provides free books for children at the Moose Lake Food Shelf. Other altruistic plans include scholarships for high school seniors, a walk for the Longest Day, staffing the Little Red School house at the Carlton County Fair and volunteering in the local schools and at the Food Shelf.

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A∆K

ID Theta Offers Encouragement to Teachers

Travelers in and out of Emmett School District may have noticed two colorful signs located at Highway 16 and Washington Avenue, saying “Thank You Teachers” and “Emmett SD Is Amazing.”

The signs were sponsored by ID Theta.

The chapter has made it a priority to encourage teachers in the Emmett School District who have been under unusual stress during the past year and a half due to the recent pandemic.

Co-presidents Nancy Daniels and Laurey Thomson explained, “We thought a visual display would be a cheerful reminder of how much the community values the hard work our teachers do. District educators and staff at all levels have had a difficult year dealing with COVID, coping with long-distance learning, and trying to keep the classrooms and buses safe for students.

We want our educational community to realize how much we appreciate their continuing combined efforts.”

Daniels and Thomson added, “Because the pandemic forced

so many students throughout Idaho to go virtual, the community has come to realize just how critical a job it is to be a good educator.

We certainly encourage others to personally thank the teachers.”

Theta chapter holds a monthly business meeting during the school year. Past altruistic projects of the chapter include local scholarships for EHS seniors, teacher project grants and helping with the Friendship Coalition dinner at the Senior Citizens Center.

OR Rho Celebrates Sixty Years With Diamond Sisters

OR Rho President Liz O’Brien presented Tree of Life medallions to new Diamond Sisters, Elaine Turk and Gay Hugus at Rho’s recent sixtieth anniversary party. Elaine and Gay were charter members of Rho when it began in April 1962.

Violet was the color of the day at the celebration at the Reedville Cafe outside of Portland, from table decorations to party favors. Past OR State President Sandra Seet read the poem, “Tree of Life,” and Helen Hess, Rho secretary, shared the history of the chapter, explaining the parts Gay and Elaine played in it. Beverly Quiring, OR State President-Elect, gave greetings from the OR State Executive Board. Audrey McDougald, Rho historian, described Gay as a gardner whose lovely yard and flower garden are often the site of chapter meetings. Elaine, an artist, turns her drawings into notecards for the chapter to sell to fund its altruistic projects.

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Altruism

“Around the world, members combine their energies and talents to enrich their lives and the lives of others through thousands of heart-warming community based altruistic projects.

Because of these projects, it is a brighter day…” ~Alpha Delta Kappa Handbook IL Lamda

The second grade students of Ashleigh Malisia call them Aunt Judy Books. This is their name for the books donated to the class in honor of Judy Addicks, long time member of IL Lambda and Ashleigh’s aunt. Judy entered Omega chapter in 2021. The sisters chose to remember her in this way because of her love of reading and celebrating life.

GA Beta Sigma

AL Alpha Theta

Presenting a check for $200 from the AL Alpha Theta chapter to the Friends of the Library for the Cullman County Imagination Library are (L to R) Mary Ellen Pinion, Carla McKee, Sue Ann Patrick, Linda Creel, Barbara Guthrie, Tanya Allcorn, Josie Harrington, Stefani Nelson and Julie Freeman.

GA Beta Sigma provided financial and volunteer assistance for an event of the Gwinnett County Public School System Bookmobile at an elementary school. Students selected a book from the more than 700 books purchased by the chapter. The chapter donates to the GCPS Bookmobile in memory of sisters and loved ones of members.

GCPS Bookmobile, the chapter’s altruistic project, provides free books for students and delivers food during the summer months.

MD Beta

CO Alpha Delta

Members of CO Alpha Delta show some of the 43 children’s books the chapter purchased for Hope House Colorado, the Colorado state altruistic project. Hope House is a program “committed to empowering and transforming the lives of teen mothers for personal and economic self-sufficiency resulting in a healthy future for themselves and their children.” (L to R) Karen Chandler, Alpha Delta co-president, Golden Sister Jane Thorell and Sondra Broers, Alpha Delta co-president.

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MD Beta sisters display some of the many items their chapter donated for animal shelters in Montgomery and Howard counties. (L to R) Terry Melo (President), Kay Caviness, Joan Coker, Bernadette Kasunic, Barbara Richards, Ginny Singhaus, Annie Kozma and Melissa Richards, who headed up the effort.

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KS Rho

KS Rho members show the 129 pounds of pop top tabs they collected for Ronald McDonald House Charities in Wichita, KS. RMHC uses the funds from recycling the tops to provide a comfortable and safe place for families from out of town to stay while their children are in the hospital. It takes 1,128 pop tops to make a pound.

Sisters Contribute

Sisters of Florida District 6, Bradenton Area, hear about the work of the Alzheimer’s Association. Chairmen Pam Helman and Pat Watkins of FL Beta Tau invited Lisa Kiddon, Development Manager of the FL Gulf Coast Chapter to speak at their district meeting. Over $1,000.00 was donated from the district to the Association that day.

MI Alpha

After hearing a speaker from Kalamazoo County Juvenile Home, MI Alpha changed its traditional holiday celebration.

The guest shared how much the residents of the home enjoyed the nightly reading of a chapter from a novel over the public address system. The speaker also mentioned that the facility’s library could use some help.

The sisters unanimously voted to contribute books to the library in place of the chapter’s traditional gift exchange. A member suggested that the home be asked for a wish list of appropriate novels for the library. The chapter donated nearly 100 books.

Alpha intends to make the book donation an annual event.

It is the collective hope of the MI Alpha sisters that perhaps the books they donated “will indeed touch the heart and mind of at least one, if not more of the young people.”

Hawai’i A∆K Sends Words of Advice to New Teachers

In the spring of 2021, Hawai’i A∆K members participated in Project Kako’o (support and aid) sponsored by Nu and Xi chapters for University of Hawai‘i-Manoa College of Education teacher candidates by distributing pandemic “survival kits’’ of supplies and food items donated by HI A∆K members. This school year, the sisters asked for words of encouragement and advice as well as inspiring anecdotes from HI A∆K members statewide to create booklets which were included in packets of donated 3M teaching supplies to support future teachers. Thirty-plus contributors shared their thoughts, organized as Advice and Encouragement, Precious Teaching Memories, Links to Support and Uplift, HI A∆K Supports You. Members delivered 150 of these packets to student teachers on their school campuses, with 25 more distributed by their instructors.

Here are some of the notes from the student teacher beneficiaries of the Project Kako‘o booklets: “Mahalo for the care package from HI A∆K.” “I will keep this book on my shelf forever.” “You gave me a boost of energy.” “ I was surprised to find so many useful classroom tools, snacks and a booklet filled with words of wisdom and encouragement.” “I’m so happy to have such amazing people supporting me on my journey to become a teacher.” “I’m blessed to be part of such an amazing community of educators.”

HI A∆K chapters have since ordered more copies to give to teachers in the field to support them and to introduce them to Alpha Delta Kappa and the benefits of membership.

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Altruism, continued.

NE Lambda

NE Lambda received a $250 grant and doubled the amount for use in the chapter’s Undercover Undies project. The funds were used to buy underwear and other needed clothing for elementary schools in Fremont, NE. The purpose of the project is to give needed help to students who have accidents in the classroom or get cold and wet on the playground during the winter. The schools requested items such as underwear, diapers, socks and sweatpants in an array of sizes. After shopping for the requested items, Lambda sisters delivered them to the school. They have received many notes of appreciation from the schools.

NC Fidelis Kappa

Every spring and fall, sisters of NC Fidelis Kappa chapter have a good time preparing large, decorated “goodie boxes” filled with hundreds of sweet, salty, crunchy, hard and soft treats to honor faculty and staff of Cabarrus County or Kannapolis City schools. Members may choose an elementary, middle or high school as the recipient, but all levels are equally honored. “Fidelis Kappa sisters know the importance of recognizing educators for their timeless work and dedication to students,” said Mary Williams, chapter treasurer. “Fidelis Kappa members have been loyal and active A∆K sisters for a total of 458 years,” she added.

PA Pi MD Chi

MD Chi sisters working with the Deer Creek Basketry Guild filled more than 60 “Helping Hands Totes.” The totes were delivered to member Jennifer Cox at Empower4Life. The totes were woven by sisters and members of the basket guild. Sisters Sharon Hoffman, Jackie Remige, Gerri Pendill and Fran Haslup worked to fill and deliver the first round of totes. Each tote contained toiletries, hand towels and purchased and hand knitted socks.

Chi sisters brought toiletry items to their March meeting to fill another round of totes to support the programs at E4L, which serves multiple homeless shelters in Maryland’s Baltimore and Harford Counties.

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PA Pi recently completed an altruistic project called Baskets of Books. Members donated new and used books, markers, crayons, coloring books and journals. Collected at monthly meetings, over 500 items were given to HAVIN, a local domestic violence center that provides shelter and help to mothers and children in need.

Pi sisters also supported the local schools’ Blessings in a Backpack program which provides backpacks of food for the weekends for children in need. The chapter also awarded six monetary grants to active teachers, gave a college scholarship to a student majoring in education and adopted a garden by becoming a partner of the local community park association. All programs were funded by member donations and a Christmas wreath sale in November.

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NJ Kappa

NJ Kappa members made sandwiches during a packing party for Elijah’s Promise Soup Kitchen in New Brunswick, NJ. Working with the East Brunswick Hadassah, the sisters packed 50 brown bag lunches. Since 1989, Elijah’s Promise has “harnessed the power of food to break the cycle of poverty, alleviate hunger and change lives for the most vulnerable members of the Central New Jersey community.” NJ Kappa members have served as volunteers at the soup kitchen for several years and plan to continue their commitment to the mission of the program.

NJ Epsilon sisters

NJ Epsilon sisters (L to R) Kathy Schulman, Leslie Ragucci, Barbara LaMort, Doris D’Elia and Rits Gerace show the trunk full of products the chapter collected when it participated in “AADC-Helping Women, PERIOD,” a service project of the Associate Alumnae of Douglass College.

The project provides menstrual products to underserved women.

The donations from Epsilon were given to the Elizabeth Coalition for the Homeless.

TN Chi

TN Chi has stayed busy with two annual altruistic projects.

Sixteen sisters created 148 Valentine Goodie Bags for the Life Care Center of Red Bank and Brookdale Assisted Living in Chattanooga, TN. This is the second year for this project.

For four years, the chapter’s December project has been collecting donations and unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots. Last year, they raised $252 in donations and toys.

NM Lambda

NM Lambda members spent their November meeting collecting gift cards and making “No-Sew” blankets for Saranam, a local non-profit in Albuquerque, NM, that provides housing, education and community building, guiding families from homelessness to self-sufficiency.

NJ Alpha Zeta

OH Epsilon

OH Epsilon sister Sandra Holway (center) holds the “Bags of Love” filled for students who may have food insufficiency at the elementary school where she teaches. Epsilon, with help from a Thrivent Financial Action Team project, donated over 800 food items. The bags are sent home on weekends. Standing with Sandra are the elementary school principal and a guidance counselor.

Members of NJ Alpha Zeta chapter are pictured at the baby shower the chapter held to support Family Promise of Southern Ocean County and Birthright of Ocean County. Family Promise helps homeless and lowincome families achieve sustainable independence, and Birthright offers love, friendship and support to women with unplanned pregnancies. This chapter describes itself as small in numbers but huge in dedication and altruism.

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Altruism, continued.

OH Psi Has a New Way to Fund Projects

OH Psi has found a new way to fund their various altruistic programs. For the past two years, the chapter has sponsored a program to display banners honoring someone who is active in or has served in the military. The chapter takes orders for 20” by 40” banners with photos and the names of the honorees. The banners are displayed on light poles throughout Fostoria, OH, between Memorial Day and Veterans Day. The cost of the banners is $150 for the first year with a renewal cost of $50. The chapter sold 88 banners in 2021. Since the sale began in February of this year, they have sold 150 more.

Funds from this year’s sale will go to assisting students and teachers in many ways. The sisters have purchased mittens and hats for children, bought school supplies, donated to the “Shop With A Cop” program and donated to the “Christmas for Every Child” program through the YMCA. They also donated additional food from chapter dinners to families in need.

Adding to the chapter’s altruistic work is a new instructional grant program.

A classroom teacher and a guidance counselor were the first grant recipients. Tammy Helberg plans to use her grant to inspire her kindergarten students by researching types of birds found in the community and building bird houses. Her students will write about how they built the houses and will share their writing with their classmates.

Guidance Counselor Bethany Zambori-Sanford will use her grant to complete training and provide information to teachers on how to incorporate mindfulness activities into the classroom.

She says these activities will help students regulate their emotions and “help them focus on their awareness of the present moment and tune into their minds and bodies.” She hopes to make it a school-wide program. The teachers submitted applications in January, describing the programs they wanted to begin and how the money would enable them to better meet the children’s needs and to instruct them on the different state standards.

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TN Theta

Sisters of TN Theta brought 40 winter coats to help those in need stay warm during the winter months to their annual Christmas brunch and ornament exchange. Burlington Coat Factory received the donations and distributed them to nonprofit organizations in the Murfreesboro area. Theta members show their donations.

VA Beta Beta

VA Beta Beta sisters gather around guest speaker, Sgt. Shannon of the Stafford County Sheriff’s Department. The chapter collected over 100 toys for the department. Sgt. Shannon, a former student of a chapter member, told the sisters that deputies keep toys in their cruisers to hand out to children.

WV Alpha Epsilon

For several years, sisters of the WV Alpha Epsilon chapter have donated packaged food items to the Concord University Food Pantry, a program initiated to address food insecurity. Concord is a local university that graduates many of the teachers and administrators in the Appalachian Chain of West Virginia, Virginia and Kentucky, the coal-mining region. The school allows students in its five bordering states, many of whom are first generation college students, to attend at in-state tuition rates. For most of these students, money is not plentiful and, by the time they pay their basic expenses, they have little left to buy food.

So, several organizations, like the Lions Club and A∆K, regularly gather food items and bring them to the pantry, a room in the student center where the food is stored. At no cost, students in need may fill their backpacks with easy to prepare items that will keep them satisfied for a while.

In addition to supporting the food bank, Alpha Epsilon sisters donate to The Gap Fund at Concord, which offers small grants to undergraduate students who have high unmet financial needs or who find themselves in a financial situation that may lead to their dropping out of college.

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Ω Omega Chapter MEMBERS ADDED SINCE LAST ISSUE

Gloria Abate........................ New Jersey Lambda Joanna K. Anderson...................... Wisconsin Psi Alicia E. Annala...........................New Mexico Eta Sandra L. Anthony..........................Ohio Lambda Iris S. Arant-Kittrell...... South Carolina Alpha Zeta Aura Elisa Arostegui...................... Louisiana Beta Sally W. Austin...............................Georgia Theta Joyce W. Baker.......... N Carolina Fidelis Omicron Martha W. Barden.......... N Carolina Alpha Sigma Vivian M. Becker.............................. Iowa Upsilon Mary L. Bednasek...........................California Psi Angela Bellante..........................California Beta Xi Jean M. Bennett............North Carolina Beta Zeta Josette Bethany..............................Minnesota Pi Mary G. Bigby................ Georgia Fidelis Lambda Edith Black......................................... Ontario Nu Alicia D. Board................... West Virginia Lambda Jane S. Borders.........................North Carolina Xi Joanne B. Bowman................. Pennsylvania Rho Deborah J. Bragg......West Virginia Alpha Epsilon Catherine C. Brown.......................... Kentucky Pi Joan Brown.............................North Carolina Phi Barbara M. Bryan.................. Louisiana Beta Iota Roberta H. Bryce.................Connecticut Gamma Betty A. Buffa............................. Illinois Alpha Nu Nellie Burnham............................... New York Mu Rachel A. Burwitz..................Wisconsin Omicron Joyspha J. Campbell..................... Jamaica Delta Marilyn L. Chandler................. Oregon Sustaining Mary E. Christenberry...................... Alabama Chi Jean E. Collins................................. Minnesota Xi Sarah B. Cooper............... S Carolina Alpha Beta Mary A. Costin-Sizer................Michigan Beta Mu Lucile A. Demanski................ Michigan Alpha Phi Maria G. DeMartini........................ California Beta Jean M. Dennis................................Ontario Zeta Karen A. Dexter............................... Iowa Upsilon Ruth M. Dillingham.............................Virginia Mu Roberta C. Driesler.................... Kentucky Kappa Claire M. Farmer............. Georgia Fidelis Lambda Vicki H. Flink............................. West Virginia Iota Beth Framhein........................New Jersey Kappa Mireille G. Freedman...............Florida Fidelis Beta Doris A. French........................... Illinois Alpha Nu Bessie E. Frith..........................Nebraska Epsilon Joy Gaines................................ West Virginia Mu Linda J. Gaiser.................... New York Sustaining Dora J. Galloway................ Georgia Fidelis Alpha Rose R. Girlinghouse...................... Louisiana Mu

Izoria S. Gordon......................North Carolina Phi Tose Grier............................California Beta Alpha Helen M. Grove....................West Virginia Kappa Margaret Guthrie....................Florida Alpha Delta Beverly Handley......................................Iowa Phi Barbara Hannan......................Florida Fidelis Rho Pamela M. Hargrove........... Tennessee Beta Zeta Velma M. Harman............ West Virginia Alpha Mu Yolanda Hauer..................................Florida Delta Shelby B. Hawkins...................Alabama Alpha Xi Mary R. Hendrickson........................ Hawaii Beta Mary W. Hennen.......................... West Virginia Pi Carol A. Hewlett...................South Dakota Alpha Carole Hiatt.............................. Indiana Alpha Phi Mary Ann Hicks..................................... Iowa Tau Phyllis A. Hobbs............................. Nebraska Mu Bennie W. Holcombe....... Alabama Beta Lambda Ester H. Howard................ N Carolina Gamma Pi Mary L. Huber...........................Illinois Sustaining Ann Janney......................... Arizona Fidelis Theta Ina Mae Johnson............. Minnesota Alpha Theta Leah Kaplan............................... Connecticut Mu Barbara H. Lake..............................Maryland Chi Marian A. Lawrence.................Michigan Beta Chi Linda L. Lingenfelter.........California Beta Upsilon Eileen J. Linxwiler.......... Florida Gamma Omicron George A. Lowe.............................. Kentucky Nu Phyllis L. Lucas................... Georgia Fidelis Alpha Rosemary Lux...........................Illinois Sustaining Anita C. Mackin......................New Jersey Kappa Margaret J. Mackin.......................... Iowa Upsilon Daria J. Madden...................... Georgia Alpha Psi Glenna W. Markham........N Carolina Gamma Iota Mary C. Martin................. Alabama Beta Lambda Patricia S. Martin.....................Florida Fidelis Rho Doris M. Maurer................................ Nebraska Xi Carolyn C. McCollum.......... Tennessee Beta Zeta Irene McCoy.............................. Nebraska Sigma Barbara B. McCutcheon........... Georgia Omicron Barbara B. McDaniel.........N Carolina Alpha Beta Wanda C. McKissack...................Mississippi Tau Ruth Ann McVay...................... Michigan Lambda Mary Catherine Metters......N Carolina Beta Delta Delphine Midura...................... Michigan Beta Nu Linda M. Neff....................................Georgia Iota June R. Nicholson...........................Minnesota Pi Marianne C. Nolan............. Pennsylvania Gamma Bev Ochsner..................... California Alpha Alpha Iola O’Grady........................California Beta Alpha K A P PA N • J U N E 2 0 2 2

Harriet Olson................... Minnesota Alpha Theta Geraldine C. Osborne..............North Carolina Phi Nancy J. Osteen..................... Georgia Alpha Tau Oma J. Owens.................... Arkansas Sustaining Susan Oxendorf......................Florida Delta Delta Jean Paradise...................... New Jersey Lambda Elizabeth R. Parker......................... Virginia Theta Darien G. Pickens............S Carolina Fidelis Alpha Edith Arlene Pike................... West Virginia Alpha Pamela K. Potts................. Tennessee Alpha Rho Nan Price................................ Georgia Alpha Mu Anne P. Prince............................... Maryland Rho Rosalind L. Reynolds.......S Carolina Fidelis Alpha Gladys Rodriguez-Mateo...... Puerto Rico Epsilon Mary E. Rowe.............................Michigan Kappa Wanda Saling................................... Kentucky Pi Donna L. Sellers....................... Missouri Beta Nu Virginia Seymour..................... Kansas Sustaining Melody W. Smith.........................Ohio Sustaining Helen K. Snider.........................Illinois Sustaining Arlene Spotz....................... Wisconsin Sustaining Joyce P. Spritzer............ Colorado Alpha Gamma Eileen P. Steeples..............Tennessee Beta Theta Shirley B. Steinberg.....................Maryland Alpha Bendella Stokes..................Texas Alpha Gamma Rhonda R. Stone.............................. Oregon Rho Glennis Story.................. Georgia Fidelis Lambda Faye L. Swindle.......................Georgia Fidelis Nu Jo Anne Thompson....................... Maryland Rho June Thornton Vinson.................... Virginia Sigma Patricia E. Tingen.................. North Carolina Rho Bette L. Tompkins........................ Kansas Epsilon Evelyn Traut..........................Colorado Sustaining Carolyn S. Tuttle..................... Virginia Alpha Zeta Ann Vaughan...........................North Carolina Phi Bette R. Walker................Washington Sustaining Martha H. Warren.................... Alabama Lambda Roma I. Weir..............................Illinois Sustaining Frances S. Welch.................... Florida Gamma Pi Sherry S. Welch.................. Georgia Beta Upsilon Barbara E. Wenner................... Florida Fidelis Nu Judith C. West.............. Virginia Gamma Omicron Jennie A. Whitaker.......................... Kentucky Chi Patricia S. Whitfield..................... Florida Beta Mu Barbara A. Williams..........................Indiana Zeta Mary R. Williams..................... Louisiana Omicron Charlotte Wolf Austin.............................. Texas Pi M. Carolyn Woods.......................... Texas Beta Pi Sharon Young...................................Virginia Zeta

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Homeroom Humor

Punchline

It was a rainy day and the children were inside for

recess. They were seated around the room, engaged in various activities of their own choosing.

I was helping one group get started when I heard a loud “OW!” I decided it had come from the corner where Jimmy and Steve were playing a game. They were best friends even though they were opposites.

Both were bright. But Jimmy was quiet and Steve was known to have a temper and an advanced vocabulary of inappropriate words that would “make a sailor blush.” I walked over and asked if there was a problem. Jimmy said Steve had punched him in the arm. I looked at Steve and said, “We have talked about this before. When you have a problem you need to use your words.” He looked at me and said, “If I used my words, I’d be in more trouble than I am now.”

Susan Rodda, NE Zeta

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Go Fish!

My high school library club decided we needed a library pet, and a fish was suggested. One showed up on the checkout counter the next day. The students named the fish Dewey Decimal. I went to the biology teacher for feeding advice and was given a small box of food and shown how much to feed this one tiny fish each day. Dewey grew and thrived, we thought, except he didn’t quit growing.

He got bigger and bigger.

One morning, I found Dewey had sort of exploded in his fishbowl. Eulogies were written and read as the club sent me to flush him to a better place.

Another fish came to live in the library and the biology teacher said, “You fed that fish too much, and he blew up, so make sure this one only gets a pinch of food per day!”

The new fish was named Maggie Zine. She was tiny and didn’t grow at all. About two months later a student found Maggie floating on top of the water in her glass bowl. Many poems eulogized tiny Miss Maggie Zine as she was flushed to the other side. The biology teacher said it looked like we starved her to death. A new fish came to us, and we were determined it would live a long happy life in the library.

Micro Fiche was an active fish. A chart was created to monitor his feeding. He became a great pet as the months ticked away that year. We were happy thinking we were doing a great job raising Micro and happily left for Christmas break. We didn’t know the school turned the heat off during break or that a giant ice storm would hit the area and extend our break. Micro slipped our minds during the holidays, ice skating and snow storm fun. But as I entered the library that first day back, I found in the fish bowl a block of ice with our Micro in the middle frozen in time.

The biology teacher said it might be possible that when the ice thawed out the fish might come back to normal if it had hibernated in the ice. What? Well, we watched and waited but Micro just floated and soon was pronounced dead and flushed away. After this experience, the library club decided it did not need a pet at all. Rachel Shankles, IVP SCR, AR Alpha Epsilon

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A∆K Dates and Deadlines JUNE..................................................................... Regional conferences June ......H-134 and H-155 S/P/N convention reports due within 7 days after S/P/N convention June 10....................................................... National Wear Flip-flops Day June 14....................................................................................... Flag Day National Gardening Week Begins June 15........................................H-142 S/P/N President’s report to IVP for the Region deadline June 19..................................................................................Father’s Day June 21 ...............................Alzheimer’s Association’s “The Longest Day” June 29..................................................................National Hug Holiday June 30............H-114 Annual Chapter Highlights Summary due to HQ C-1 Annual Chapter Treasurer’s Reporting Form deadline S-1 and S-2 Annual State Treasurer’s Reporting Forms due to HQ (U.S. and Puerto Rico)

JULY...................................................................... Regional conferences

July 1................KAPPAN submissions deadline (September publication) Canada/ Dominion Day July 4.....................................................................US Independence Day July 17..........................................................National Eat Ice Cream Day July 30.................................................... International Day of Friendship

AUGUST .....Officer Packets emailed to chapter and S/P/N presidents August 7........................................................................... Friendship Day August 12.............................................................National Kool-Aid Day August 13......................75th Anniversary of Alpha Delta Kappa Charter August 31................................... Distinguished Program Award deadline

SEPTEMBER.....S/P/N Chapter Treasurer packets emailed from HQ September 1.......... Leadership Academy applications for participants and mentors deadline September 15................................................... Classroom Grant deadline

Are you ready for KC in 2023?

2023 International Convention Save the Date: July 13–16, 2023

NONPROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID LIBERTY, MO PERMIT No. 1092

Alpha Delta Kappa

1615 West 92nd Street Kansas City, MO 64114-3210

2023 International Convention July 13–16, 2023

Kansas City Marriott Downtown Hybrid Educational Symposium – Virtual Sessions begin July 6-7, 2023