BRIDGE TO THE FUTURE
Alpha Delta KAPPAN
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KAPPAN EDITOR
Joanne Grimm, CA Alpha Alpha
KAPPAN TEAM
Susan Pelchat, CT Mu
Shannon Lorenzo-Rivero, TN Chi
Betty Sherrod, VA Gamma Omicron
Susan Whelan, NJ Kappa
Julie Kinder-McMillan, TN Alpha Gamma
Gwen Steele, NE Kappa
Daniel LaBorde, Digital Communications Coordinator, Int'l HQ
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Features & Departments
1 International President’s Message
2 Intergenerational Learning: Rethinking Leadership
3 Marketing AΔK Using Social Media
4 Classroom Grant: Out of a Grant Came a Podcast
5 Classroom Grant: Letting Their Light Shine
6 How States and Chapters Can Grow Their Altruistic Funds
8 The Longest Day
9 Five ITE Scholars Graduate with Courage, Resilience and AΔK Support 10 News From Around the Regions 12 The KAPPAN Congratulates 13 Board Chairmen Say Goodbye 14 Amazing Member: Curator Of Culture, Nature & Wildlife 15 Altruism 19 #A∆K
SPECIAL CONVENTION SECTION 22 Voting Schedule
23 Remembering and Looking Forward to the First Time 24 Making the Most of Technology at International Convention
25 Y’all Come Back Now and Other Texanisms
26 Convention Features Member Speakers
26 Foundation Promises Evening of Boot Scootin’ Boogie
27 International Convention Keynote Speakers
28 Austin Bound!
30 Did Someone Say Shopping?
31 Omega Chapter 32 Humor 33 A∆K Dates and Deadlines
The Golden Gate Bridge connects the city of San Francisco with Marin County in California. The name comes, not from its color, international orange, but from the Golden Gate strait beneath it. The suspension bridge, completed in 1937 during the Depression, is one of the seven wonders of the modern world. It is considered a symbol of power, progress and the ability to overcome challenges.
KAPPAN EDITORIAL BOARD
Ann Marie Brown, International President
Conway Blankenship, International President-Elect
Mollie Acosta, Immediate Past International President
Christi Smith, Executive Advisor
Pam Collins, Headquarters 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.
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 www.alphadeltakappa.org
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.
Submitting Items for the next KAPPAN
The deadline for the September issue is July 1, 2025. The September KAPPAN will feature articles about ending one biennium and starting another. Please include your name, chapter, state, province or nation, your office, and a way we can reach you if there are questions or more information needed.
To submit articles/photos, go to the A∆K website >About>Publications>Submit to the KAPPAN Follow submission guidelines on the submission form.
Marketing AΔK Using Social Media
By Phyllis Robinette, Membership & Marketing Specialist
In the late fall of 2022, A∆K began using social media to market the organization to build visibility, recognition, promotion and information. Many of the chapters, states, provinces, nations and regions use social media and have learned the benefits of its use. However, many social media sites remain private and only serve those who follow and are members of the group.
Every business, organization or group uses social media to market. When you look through your social media platform (app/ site), you see paid ads as well as free advertising. Your church may use it to inform and share the great work they may partner with within their community. Even your veterinarian is now sharing cute puppy pics. So, we have joined in this, too.
We have created various platforms to use with various audiences. Here is an overview of our outreach:
Our International Facebook page is used for sharing everything Alpha Delta Kappa. We share information, altruistic projects, celebrations, events and upcoming deadlines. Our goals and our positive, engaged members supporting our profession and communities are also shared. Our growth since September 2022 has been over 1000 followers. We post two-plus times daily.
Our International Instagram page uses graphics and videos created for both Facebook and Instagram. We share information, altruistic projects, celebrations, events, upcoming deadlines and educational positive memes. Our goals are to positively engage a younger population and include our A∆KCC (Alpha Delta Kappa Collegiate Club) future educators. Most of our A∆K Collegiate Clubs have and use Instagram. Our growth since September 2022 has been over 370 followers. We post two or more times daily.
Our International Threads account was launched nine months after the site’s inception in July 2023. As many other businesses and individuals have moved away from X (Twitter), we joined in, seeing the engagement in other sites increasing. We share altruistic
projects, celebrations and other positive posts. Our growth for the six months of launching is over 84 followers. We generally post once daily.
Our International X (Twitter) account uses various types of posts. As X moves quickly, its audience regularly looks for the latest posts. We share information, deadlines, altruistic projects, celebrations, inspirational quotes, funny season jokes and educational memes, both inspirational and funny. Our growth since September 2022 is over 160 followers. We post six-plus times daily.
Our International LinkedIn account shares scholarship and grant opportunities, altruistic projects, organizational leadership and staff updates and articles from previous KAPPANs. As this platform is more formal and typically markets us to professionals, our audience and posts follow that flavor. Our growth since September 2022 is over 200 followers. We post once daily.
YouTube is our newest platform for sharing. We will move our training, committee, marketing and public videos to this platform. Because of the tremendous growth of YouTube and its influence, sharing on this platform will be an important component of our public face. Only videos will be shared on this platform. We will post as deemed necessary on our Playlists. There will be two formats of Playlists. The Public list will include marketing, Fraternity Education, general members, and chapter training, scholarships and grants and more. The Unlisted Playlist will contain recordings of committee and board meetings. The Unlisted videos will be accessed by internally shared links only. The challenge is to move all of the current videos from our previous platform to this public platform. We have limited subscribers to our channel now, but we are targeting a formal launch date in August 2025.
Out of a Grant Came a Podcast
By Christine Ganter, CT Psi
In December 2024, I was most grateful to be honored with a $400 Alpha Delta Kappa International Classroom Grant, which is designed to assist creative, innovative A∆K educators with the cost of materials and services for their classroom lessons. With this grant, I was able to purchase 50 sets of headphones with microphones along with a “blue speaker” for the classroom.
In the fall, I noticed that many of my sixth-grade students were struggling with distractions, varying learning styles and the need for personalized auditory experiences. I wanted to find a way to effectively incorporate educational technology, such as interactive lessons, educational apps and online resources, enriching the curriculum and making learning more engaging. My goal was to improve students’ listening comprehension, reading fluency and writing skills through technology and the creation of podcasts.
Podcasts feature live conversations, interviews and discussions, which help learners understand how conversations are structured, which phrases and expressions are used in everyday speech and how to keep a conversation going. The first step to making a podcast was to listen to mentor podcasts and to teach students how to record, make sound effects, edit and publish material. They already knew a lot about this and taught me a few things. We used a free online platform called Anchor to get us started.
While making podcast episodes, students started recognizing the responsibilities and opportunities for contributing to their digital communities. Students started producing podcasts from informational writing assignments in preparation for SBA testing. They set goals for themselves and practiced reading with fluency. They also curated a variety of
resources using digital tools to construct knowledge, produce creative artifacts, write strong scripts and make meaningful learning experiences for themselves and others. For example, after learning about King Tut in social studies, students participated in a King Tut CSI activity and studied the theories on how King Tut died. They wrote a script and concluded the activity with their own theory. In the podcasts, students held discussions about their beliefs and the reasoning behind them. Most recently, students created interviews with partners to learn about an author that we are studying in language arts. The interviews were shared within our school cluster. Our latest project was to create a commercial podcast in relation to a Pharaoh study and “cereal box” project. While studying Egypt, students chose a pharaoh to research. They decorated a cereal box with a creative name for their cereal on the front, information about the pharaoh on the side, and information about the pharaoh’s family on the other side. Then, they came up with a game for the back and used 4D printers to create “Egyptrelated” prizes for the inside. They created commercials to go with their cereal boxes and sent them out as podcasts. The productions were shared with a pen pal group in New Britain. We are also in the process of extending our learning outside of our own school by having debates, interviewing a guest somewhere else in the world and sharing our podcasts with another classroom outside of our city.
By equipping our classroom with podcast tools, we have empowered students to take control of their learning experiences by creating a more focused and inclusive educational environment. This project will make a lasting impact on my students’ academic growth and personal development.
How States and Chapters Can Grow Their Altruistic Funds
By Ellen Roderick, Member of the A∆K Foundation Board
Over 25 years ago, states were given the opportunity to invest their scholarship and or altruistic funds in the Alpha Delta Kappa Foundation. The monies would belong to the state and, over time, would benefit from the growth of the Foundation due to investment policies. A few years later, chapters were offered the same opportunity. Maryland, my state, took advantage of that offer, opening an “MD Altruistic Fund/Scholarship Program” account using $6,000 of our altruistic dollars. As a state, we have added dollars regularly from fundraising and donations. We withdraw funds to award scholarships and contribute to state and/or district altruistic projects. Through time and investment growth, our account has grown beyond all expectations. My chapter, Beta, set up a reserve account, and we have seen excellent growth. This article explains the workings of the state and chapter reserve accounts, also called restricted funds.
scholarship fund within the A∆K Foundation as a ‘Reserve Account’ with a minimum start-up of $3,000. Once the initial $3,000 deposit is made, a state or chapter is not required to maintain that balance. Also, there are no restrictions on the amount or frequency of deposits or withdrawals.
Q: How many states and chapters have accounts in the Foundation? What is the total value of these accounts?
A: Presently, there are 35 state and chapter Reserve Accounts in the Foundation. Twenty states, with some having multiple accounts, and nine chapters have Reserve Accounts. The total value of the reserve accounts is $1.2mil. Reserve accounts are only available in U.S. currency.
Q: How can members donate to the fund, or states and chapters make deposits to the fund?
Q: What are the advantages of placing state or chapter altruistic and/or scholarship dollars in the Foundation (i.e., setting up a reserve account)?
A: There are multiple advantages: (1) reduces the tax liability of a chapter or state when they receive a donation or bequest, as contributions are tax-deductible to the donor; (2) fund qualifies as a charitable set aside for the state or chapter’s unrelated business income, reducing tax liability; (3) may eliminate the need to file estimated quarterly federal and state tax payments on investment income; (4) reduces state or chapter’s expenses for attorneys, accounting and investment fees; and (5) strengthens the Foundation.
Q: How much money must a state or chapter send to the Foundation to start an account?
A: States and chapters may establish an altruistic and/ or
A: The donation and/or depositing process is now online. On the International website, go to “Foundation” and click on Donate, the first item in the dropdown menu. Click on the purple box labeled “State and Chapter Investment Account Donation.” The state and chapter accounts will appear. Click on the account you need and enter the information required. Checks payable to the Foundation are accepted by Headquarters. The reserve account the check is to be deposited in needs to be noted on the check.
Q: How does a state or chapter treasurer request funds to award a scholarship or make a donation to a 501(c)(3) organization?
A: The withdrawal process is online. The state or chapter treasurer completes the form. It asks for the name, point of contact and address for where the check is to be sent and to whom the check is payable. The form asks for the date funds are needed with the guidance “allow 30 days for processing.” The form is on the A∆K website: Members Only>Resource Library>Foundation
Five ITE Scholars Graduate with Courage, Resilience and AΔK Support
By Judy Tate, International Teacher Education Board Chair
When the current International Teacher Education (ITE) scholars crossed their bridges to graduate schools across the United States, they had little idea of the highs and lows they would experience. The highs centered around their exceptionally generous sponsors and the many other Alpha Delta Kappa sisters who embraced and supported them throughout their time with us. The lows came in March when Fulbright, which provides their most significant funding, notified them that their monthly stipend for rent, food, and so forth had been frozen and was in jeopardy. Rather than the monthly stipend, each received only one week of funding. The anxiety experienced by all seven scholars, but especially by the five graduating scholars, rose to understandably high levels.
The International Executive Board, Alpha Delta Kappa Foundation Board, the International Teacher Education Board, their sponsors and Headquarters moved quickly to encourage and support the scholars through these challenging days and to make plans appropriate for the long term. Thankfully, Fulbright eventually found the funds to pay the stipends through the spring, bringing a degree of relief to all. As I write this article, our two returning scholars and the five new scholars who hope to join us later this summer do not have assurances that the funding freeze for tuition and living expenses will be lifted.
The high for Alpha Delta Kappa sisters is the immense pride we each take in the remarkable women who have completed their master’s degrees under both joyous and daunting times and now cross the bridges to their futures. Our congratulations and best wishes go to each of them.
Members attending the International Convention in Austin will have the opportunity to meet recent graduate Alejandra Coz, from Peru and second-year scholars Shehneela Naz, from Bangladesh, attending the University of Illinois, and Meri Kadagidze, from Georgia, attending the University of Washington.
Sarah Pradoto received her Master of Education in Elementary Education from the University of Georgia. “I am so excited to return to the non-profit school where I worked before. At the same time, I plan to serve as a teacher educator for early childhood teachers and implement my action plan to collaborate with local organizations to provide teacher training in rural or remote areas of Indonesia.”
Rose Marie Jane Rementina received her Master of Arts in Special Education from the University of Minnesota. “Upon returning to the Philippines, I will work as a principal at a school for students with disabilities while also beginning the planning and development of a new school to support more youth with disabilities in their transition from school to employment. I wish to continue keeping in touch and sending emails with A∆K sisters. Of course, I’ll enjoy eating my favorite Filipino dishes and dessert, spending time with my family and friends, hugging my dog, sleeping in my bed, and going back to our church.”
Daw Sing Nue Marma received her Master of Education in Instructional Design and Technology from the University of Cincinnati. “My initial plan is to return to Bangladesh and implement a project on “Digital Inclusion for Civic and Parenting Growth” based on a series of training and learning-sharing workshops for primary school teachers and parents in the Chittagong Hill Tracts in Bangladesh. I will also continue working to improve the mobile app for vocabulary learning for indigenous young learners in collaboration with local youth organizations.”
Pham Ha Phuong received her Master of Arts in International Educational Development at Teachers College, Columbia University. “I plan to continue to work in a Higher Education setting. I also feel inspired and equipped with the necessary skills to seize opportunities in research. I plan to conduct a study focusing on student agency among marginalized college students in Vietnam.”
Alejandra Coz, who completed her graduate program in one year, received her Master of Education from Harvard University. “After graduation and before returning to Peru, I plan to stay for some time in the U.S., working in the EdTech space. I aspire to contribute to initiatives that integrate innovation, technology, learning design and product management to create impactful educational solutions.”
News From Around the Regions
The seven Alpha Delta Kappa regions have been busy. The regional presidents are eager to share what has happened in their areas.
NORTHWEST REGION
Barbara Nore, president of the Northwest Region, shared the activities and goals of chapters in her region. Two big goals are to honor and recognize sisters for their achievements, awards and special recognitions and to ask members to prioritize their health and family. During the 2024-2026 biennium, each chapter will be featured in the “Sunflower Seedling Gazette” newsletter, available on A∆K CONNECT/Northwest Community.
In December, 50 sisters from the Northwest and Gulf Regions joined ZOOM to play online games in breakout rooms. Five chapters in the region held “Educators are Heroes” events. WA Beta Alpha played “I Do, We Do, I Like, We Like, ” a game that emphasized, through a series of questions, not only how different sisters are, but also how many similarities are shared. Zeta enjoyed participating in an outdoor Olympic-themed event. WA Pi took goodies to a partner school, and WA Alpha Upsilon shared a gathering in a park. “Scoop” was the name of the activity sponsored by MT Alpha. It included lots of ice cream. WA Beta Beta set up an information table. When prospective members filled out an inquiry card, they received a gift card for coffee.
Alaska’s theme for the biennium is “A Symphony of Sisterhood,” and, according to Barbara, “Like the symphony, A∆K is made up of beautiful humans who, when working together, move mountains.” Altruistic projects abound in the three Alaska chapters, including Adopt-a-Family, Kindness Bags for homeless shelters, The Longest
Day, Alaska Search and Rescue Dogs, replying to children’s letters to Santa, making fleece blankets and providing diapers for the Resource Center for Parents and Children. Supporting Fairbanks Youth Advocates by providing food, clothing, hygiene items, education, career coaching and life skills development for youth in a safe shelter called “The Door” is a major project.
WY Epsilon makes hospital book bags for children, while WY Gamma raises funds to offset the cost for sisters attending A∆K events. WY Delta provided a welcome lunch for school employees and a free drawing for a basket filled with back-to-school items.
NORTH CENTRAL REGION
North Central Region President Jennie Johnson shared Ontario’s 2024 events, including Zeta’s sixtieth anniversary in October. Ontario Sigma President Maria Luisa Lebar assembled a printed membership directory to assist sisters who were unable to access the online directory. Regional and International chapter members enjoyed two educator-centered events using CONNECT and appreciated the opportunity to greet the international attendees.
Ontario’s virtual chapter met twice before the end of 2024. At a virtual meeting in January, Iowa sisters joined them to listen to Ontario Psi sister Jane Enright talk about her new book. Ontario supports all members who may have difficulty with ever-changing technology through the efforts of two technology mentors. This assistance helps all sisters seek leadership roles.
Indiana State President Arlene Hart planned to visit chapters during December, but the weather didn’t cooperate. She was pleased, however, to receive pictures of chapter meetings and events from almost all chapters in the state.
Spring 2025 brings new activities to the region. Indiana held its state conference in April, and Iowa had a “Sisters’ Saturday” gathering in May.
NORTHEAST REGION
The Northeast Region awarded many classroom grants in 2024. Christine Ganter (CT Psi), Jamie Rodriguez (CT Alpha), Nancy Tucker (MA Mu), Margaret Bouthot (ME Alpha), Meredith Pisaeno (NJ Alpha Kappa), Alicia Somers (NJ Kappa) and Mandy Yanoschick (PA Mu) received grants. Regional Fall Mini-Grants were given to Karen Ellingson-Nonestied (NJ Kappa), Annette
Board Chairmen Say Goodbye
By Sue Pelchat, KAPPAN Correspondent
The people who carry out the mission of an organization are vital to its survival. Leading the charge for Alpha Delta Kappa are its four, member-led boards, each with a sixyear commitment, ending with the board’s leadership in the third biennium. Completing their terms at July’s convention, the chairs of these teams have helped move A∆K forward with integrity and dedication. We offer this tiny mirror to give a reflection of their accomplishments.
Heading up the Leadership Academy (LA) Board, Chair, 19-year member Lynn Blosser, MI Beta Xi, says she has been honored to contribute to A∆K in this capacity. Her passion for professional growth opportunities and building teacher capacity made her a perfect fit to serve on the board. She has been active in her district’s leadership training program and mentored National Board Certification candidates. Communication and collaboration are key qualities she says have helped her maintain connections among Headquarters, board members and program participants. Developing agendas, managing meetings, scheduling and facilitating discussions have tapped her leadership abilities. LA Curriculum revisions, application reviews and program evaluation were key pressure points in her work. And, though the training for her position was only one biennium because the board consisted of only two people at that time, she climbed the steep learning curve by collaborating with her predecessor, bringing to bear prior leadership experiences that made her a great candidate for the program from the start. In a program that identifies and enhances the key strengths of participants, Lynn stands as a model outcome, trainer and supporter of the Leadership Academy program. She says, “Serving on this board has provided a unique platform to connect with sisters from all regions, making the in-person interactions at conventions and conferences all the more enjoyable and meaningful.”
Is BWOK a Star Wars mammaloid biped? Not at all. She is a 31-year member, Becky Walker of AL Beta Kappa, completing a second six-year term and reprising her role as chair of the Fine Arts Grant Board. She said that because she was repeating herself in the leadership role, she felt calmer and more knowledgeable about what must be done. She and the other board members worked to publicize and promote the grants to encourage more members to apply. They reviewed applications submitted through Kaleidoscope, the scholarship data collection program, and collaborated to select the recipients of the grants that may total up to $10,000 for each biennium. She says she was happy that the committee got to read and see many amazing ideas to keep the arts in the schools and considers it an honor and a privilege to have been able to serve Alpha Delta Kappa twice in this capacity.
Lynette Varner is uniquely qualified to chair her board. She established the first Alpha Delta Kappa Collegiate Club at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, in 2016 and served as faculty advisor until her retirement in 2021. A member of IN Beta Epsilon, she has served Alpha Delta Kappa in many roles throughout her 40 years as a member, most recently completing her term as chair of the Alpha Delta Kappa Collegiate Club (A∆KCC) Board. She now sponsors the Ball State University club, keeping them closely connected to her home chapter. As chair, she worked with Headquarters staff to revise documents related to A∆KCC before posting them on the A∆K website. She says she has enjoyed guiding and advising new clubs and sponsors as they begin the chartering process. She is especially proud to watch as college students develop their leadership skills through participation and training in the clubs. While she said it was sometimes challenging to keep all the plates spinning at once, she found the experience heart-warming as she communicated, connected with and nurtured new clubs. Lynette emphasized, “Ultimately, Alpha Delta Kappa is creating an impactful, positive difference on education by mentoring our A∆KCC leaders.”
Deep in Judy Tate’s DNA is an appreciation for cultures and people worldwide, a fitting quality for the chair of ITE, the International Teacher Education program. A world traveler, she says that from her earliest days as an A∆K member, she considered the ITE program as the crown jewel of our organization since it incorporates the organization’s entire mission in one program: excellence in education, altruism and world understanding – all wrapped in respect for people and perspectives from various backgrounds. She found communication a necessary skill as she welcomed new students, coordinated sponsors, worked with Fulbright representatives and selected program participants each year. ZOOMS, ZOOMS and more ZOOMS during COVID helped to inform and create bonds among the new guests of A∆K while challenging leaders to master new technology platforms. The board expended hours planning for students to attend conventions and conferences and coordinating the annual introduction of ITE students to an International audience. Under her leadership, sponsors were recognized, funding was granted, and program modifications were enacted. She hopes for continued Fulbright funding that will support the amazing women A∆K hosts from around the world. Judy says she is proud and honored to have been able to move the program forward this biennium.
The sisters of A∆K are grateful for the unwavering dedication and exceptional service of the A∆K board chairs these past two years. Their leadership and tireless service have made a lasting impact on Alpha Delta Kappa. Their contributions will be felt for years to come.
AMAZING MEMBER!
Curator Of Culture, Nature & Wildlife
By Gwen Steele, KAPPAN Correspondent
Growing up, JoAnne Mowczko spent her time in the fields, collecting insects and bugs and observing plants as her mother plowed their farmland aboard a tractor. A budding biologist was born as JoAnne explored the world around her. As her interests piqued over the years, JoAnne became a teacher of biology, an environmentalist, a storyteller of an Ecuadorian tribe in the Amazon, and a wildlife habitat curator in her own backyard. A longstanding member of A∆K AZ Fidelis Zeta in Yuma, her love and dedication to people, plants and animals is evidenced by multiple offices held in her chapter, by the documentation of an Amazon community through books authored and by the devoted care of her National Wildlife Federation certified wildlife garden.
What began as a vacation destination in the early 2000s grew into a research endeavor lasting many years.
The Mowczkos ventured to Ecuador in 2008 and registered in an ecolodge in the Amazon rainforest, where they became friends with an Achuar tribal member.
With both biology and anthropology degrees, JoAnne felt compelled to learn more about this ancient tribe of 17,000 whose connection to the land is deep and devout. An Achuar village numbers approximately 60 inhabitants each, with eight extended families per village. Originally, they were warriors and to this day challenge the encroachment by oil companies in the rainforests. JoAnne left the vacation with the mission to write about the culture of the tribe.
Because the Achuar live self-sufficiently and somewhat isolated from other cultural groups, JoAnne had to petition for and was granted permission to engage with the tribe. In 2011, in a canoe with a native guide, she entered the Achuar community, visiting eight tribes during a seven-week stay in which she resided with the families. She lived as the tribe did: she ate their diet of tubers, fruits, fish, avocados, figs, monkeys and grilled grubs and worked alongside the tribal members. Not only was she received warmly by the community, but she was also embraced as a family member, earning the Achuar name “Sham Nuwa,” Guardian of the Forest, due to her intense interest in preserving the rainforest. The Achuar kept her both safe
and healthy, and she returned home to write another book. 2014 saw a return trip to the Amazon with proceeds of the most recent volume donated for a 10-year period to Achuar schools. The last brief visit was in 2017. While with the Achuar, JoAnne created ceramic pieces and to this day continues her craft, her work reflecting Achuar art.
JoAnne holds a doctorate in education. She received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching and is an Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator. She is the author of several books, including “The Achuars of the Pataza River” and “Myths of the People of Palms.”
The Mowczko “garden” began about 12 years ago with the purchase of a house that did not reflect a desert environmental sanctuary for local wildlife. The basic development of the habitat took about two years and grew to a comfortable maturity a couple of years later. Hummingbirds and Monarch butterflies populate the front yard and two desert tortoises, fully protected by law and prohibited from being released into the wild, reside in the backyard. The habitat’s growth fully provides the food source for all its residents. The panoramic landscape includes flowering plants, pollinators, desert willow, snail vines and countless other items as menu choices.
Homes and schools can apply for national habitat certification. Spaces can be as small as a container garden. The only requirements are that there is shelter such as plant or shrub cover, a food source and a water source. Local extension agencies provide online certification applications and habitat tips for success. Two good sources are: nwf.org: Native Plants Habitat: Create & Certify Habitats and naba.org: Butterfly Garden Certification Program.
JoAnne shared her thoughts regarding the importance of wildlife and butterfly habitats: “Invite wildlife into your yard with nectar, food plants, container gardens, caterpillar feed and milkweed plants. Anyone can build a garden. If even half of us did, we would help sustain food source oases to support local bird and butterfly populations and the migration routes of the Monarchs.”
Altruism
“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is “What are we doing for others.” ” ~Martin Luther King, Jr.
AL Alpha Theta
Responding to a Victim Services ad in the local paper, AL Alpha Theta sisters donated needed items such as towels, shampoo, toothbrushes and toothpaste in beautiful shopping bags. Pictured with the bags (L to R) are Mary Ellen Pinion, Linda Creel, Carla McKee, Stephanie Blair, Laurita Hogland, Amber Thornton, Sue Ann Patrick, Barbara Guthrie, Kelley Clegg Neal and Nancy Horton.
FL Beta Lambda
FL Beta Lambda sisters (L to R) Myranda Cox, Marcia Demers, and Shirley Agrella assemble comfort kits for the residents of Westminster Lakeland, a local assisted living facility. The chapter filled 115 kits with practical bedside table items such as tissues, lotion, chapstick, toothpaste and sugar-free mints.
GA Alpha Epsilon
GA Alpha Epsilon members prepared 57 personalized “Bags of Love” Valentine gifts for residents of SouthEast Hospice, Augusta, GA. The chapter aimed to provide practical items while offering comfort, compassion and sensory relief. The sisters filled each bag with carefully selected items chosen to meet the specific needs and preferences of the recipient. Some items were soothing lotions, lip balm, journals with pens, sensory items, picture frames, stuffies, devotion books, snacks, tea bags and soft socks. “The delivery of these ‘Bags of Love’ went beyond an act of kindness—it was a way to offer connection and emotional support to individuals who often feel disconnected from the world,” said Carol Burton, Alpha Epsilon secretary. Showing the “Bags of Love” are (L to R) Jeannie Butler, Jane Cely, Carol Burton, Sherry McKie, Sara Beth McGee, Angela Hobby and Danielle Short.
CA Beta Rho
CA Beta Rho sisters are committed to being involved in their Bay Area community. The chapter was recently awarded a CA District mini-grant for its Adopt-A-School and Community Closet altruistic projects. The awards are given in the fall, and each district in the state is eligible to receive an award. Beta Rho was the Northern District recipient.
Beta Rho sisters contributed clothing and accessories to a “Swap Meet” at a San Bruno, CA elementary school. The Community Closet provides under-served children and adults with clothing, hygiene products and school supplies.
The sisters also helped to distribute food to over a hundred families on food distribution day at the Santa Clara Second Harvest Food Bank. In February, to celebrate Heart Health Month, “From the Heart Friendship” recipes were exchanged by the members. Jeanne McCann and Carol Raisner are the chapter’s covice presidents for programs.
CA Beta Rho sisters participate in Food Bank distribution day (Standing L to R) Susan Raffo, Annette DeMaria, Carol Raisner, Jeann McCann, Patrice McCarley, Dorothy Stapleton (Sitting L to R) Linda Dugoni, Teresa Thompson and Andrea Anderson.
IL Alpha Nu
IL Alpha Nu sisters continue to address the fundamental needs of the community through their many altruistic projects. The chapter recently supported the Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7 when it raised $400 and provided 15 tee shirts for the employees of Rae’s Cafe. The Cafe is a project of Redefining Independence, a nonprofit organization providing work training programs and employment opportunities for adults with disabilities. The chapter also supports the Glen Ed Pantry, Nurses Fund, middle and high school CARE closets, and the Challenge Unlimited Group Homes residents. This year, Alpha Nu awarded educators $2,250 in grants and/or awards. Showing the new Rae’s Cafe tee shirts are Alpha Nu sisters (L to R) Sharon Petty, Jeanne Brunworth, Becky Beal and Cathy Ward.
TN Epsilon
TN Epsilon’s sisters did spring cleaning early this year, finding merchandise for a two-day rummage sale to raise funds for a scholarship for a college senior pursuing a degree in education. The chapter made it possible for a student at Heritage High School to attend a choir workshop in New York.
TX Gamma Iota
TX Gamma Iota members held a celebratory recognition event for high school seniors interested in becoming educators and their practicum instructors in the Temple High School’s Education and Training Pathways Program. Pathways supports students in preparing for post-secondary education, training and careers. After learning about the program, the Gamma Iota sisters wanted to recognize its dedicated educators and aspiring teachers in the Temple Independent School District.
The Program Director, Amy Tyler, was honored for her commitment to shaping future educators. Also recognized at the event were Bill Peters, a fifth-grade math teacher at Jefferson Elementary School, and his senior practicum student Tamaya Nealy-Hardnett who was a student of Peters when she was in the fifth grade. The other two seniors in the program and their instructors could not attend. All the honorees received a certificate and a gift card.
Tyler showed a video highlighting the program’s curriculum, fieldwork opportunities and mentor selection process and answered questions. Adrian Lopez, director of employee relations for the school district, also attended.
“This inaugural event celebrated the unique bond between mentor teachers and their students. Gamma Iota is looking forward to strengthening this partnership in the future,” said Gamma Iota CoPresident Lisa Colvin.
Gamma Iota already has a partnership with Ronald McDonald House in Temple. Sisters donate monthly to the House and cook dinner for its guests twice a year in exchange for the use of a room for chapter meetings.
Pictured (L to R) Bill Peters, Tamaya Nealy-Hardnett, and her mother, Tami Nealy.
Ontario Sisters
Ontario sisters participated in the IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s in May. Their goal was 4,500,000 steps - one for every Ontarian living with the disease. Last year, the sisters walked 4,268,276 steps and raised $13,725, according to A∆K Alzheimer’s Challenge Chair Marcia Daley. The Tau Trekkers alone raised over $1,000.
Journey of the Giving Quilt
By Mary Tenner, TX Epsilon
As soon as I saw the beautiful, hand-stitched, quilted throw with violets surrounded by green and purple triangles and squares of white, I knew it had to go home with me. Thus began the journey of the Giving Quilt. Made by Georgia McCain of Alabama Alpha, the quilt was her labor of love, and it paid homage to her A∆K sisters. In a silent auction at the 2011 International Convention in Chicago, I gladly bid for the honor of taking the quilt home. The proceeds supported the altruistic project, a Chicago non-profit. Luckily, I won the quilt, which began its journey, coming home to San Antonio.
The treasured quilted throw graced the foot of my guest room bed for six years. In 2017, I donated the quilt for a fundraiser at District III’s Founders’ Day Luncheon. It was won by Karen Coleman of TX Alpha Eta and raised $200 for the A∆K Disaster Relief Fund.
Once again, the beautiful quilt resurfaced in 2024 at yet another District III Founders Day Luncheon. Won by Dawn Fontana from TX Pi, $250 was raised for Court Assigned Special Advocacy in Texas for Children (CASATX.)
After Dawn heard the history of this quilt, she graciously handed it back to me. That is when the idea of the “Giving Quilt” was born. After 13 years, the Giving Quilt had come full circle. What an amazing journey this quilt has made! How much farther could it go? How much more could it contribute if allowed to continue to give through Alpha Delta Kappa?
It is my goal to present the Giving Quilt at the 2025 Alpha Delta Kappa International Convention in Austin as an altruistic offering. Tickets will sell for $1 each or six tickets for $5. Proceeds will be given by TX Epsilon to the Convention’s altruistic project.
The Giving Quilt will set off on a new national or even international journey. And hopefully, it will continue to be offered as a means to raise funds for altruistic projects throughout Alpha Delta Kappa.
Thank You, Georgia. You and Alabama Alpha will always be remembered for this initial gift of skill and love… The GIVING QUILT of Alpha Delta Kappa.
CA Xi
Southwest Region Immediate Past President Mary Ann Englehart (R) welcomes her daughter Cami Cipolla Perdatabase (L) into CA Xi. Cami is an adjunct professor of history at Lemoore Community College, a part of West Hills College. She is also the Director of Education and Community Involvement for the Fresno, CA, Historical Society. The initiation ceremony was performed by Immediate Past International President Mollie Acosta, also a member of XI, Chapter President Laurie Goodwin, Monique Ouwinga DeRuiter and Joelle Smith. Mary Ann, who is a past California State President and will be installed at the International Convention in Austin as a four-year member of the International Board, passed on her badge to her daughter.
The Future Bridge That Keeps Going
As Alaska Zeta chapter travels over the many bridges we encounter, its members try their best to make a difference and keep A∆K goals front and center.
The bridge to increase membership has been foremost in their minds. The chapter held an International Tea for potential members to support and celebrate Educators Are Heroes. At the event, ITE Scholar Meri Kadagidze, spoke about her country, Georgia, and her education at the University of Washington and in Georgia.
The bridge of Altruism is one they travel the most, according to Immediate Past Chapter Co-President Amanda Ross. One of their time-honored projects is giving tied fleece blankets, stuffed toys and diapers to Stevie’s Place, a Child Advocacy Center (CAC) that provides children who may have experienced maltreatment and their non-offending family members support and advocacy during investigations.
The bridge that is the most challenging, Amanda says, leads to future chapter leaders who move Zeta forward. Currently, the chapter uses the Presidential Planning Committee (PPC) concept to help share knowledge and leadership skills with more members.
“All our bridges converge into one that is traveled frequently and forever to move AK Zeta forward,” Amanda said.
Enjoying the International Tea (L to R) are Jenny Hopper, Nancy Norum, Judy Shiffer, Pat Thomas, Mary Ann Fathauer, Fran Zawacki, Denise Edgerton, Barb Nore, Kathy Doyel, Sheila McCleary, Kathleen Geuea and Amanda Ross.
AL Alpha Theta
Amber Thornton, a library media specialist, is the newest member of AL Alpha Theta. Standing behind (L to R) are Alpha Theta officers: President-Elect Mary Ellen Pinion, Historian Lynn Moody, Stephanie Blair and President Barbara Guthrie.
AZ Mu
AZ Mu President-Elect Betty Ehret shares her A∆K story during the chapter’s “Getting to Know You” activity as part of its fraternity education. “As a chapter, we realized we knew little about our current and new members’ interests, educational backgrounds and who introduced them to A∆K.
Learning about our members has bridged new and current members through their stories,” said Mu’s Immediate Past President Evelyn Leone.
AZ Psi
Audrey Fullerton, granddaughter of Psi President Ann Fullerton participates in the TROT tour.
AZ Psi chapter toured the 18-acre Therapeutic Riding Of Tucson (TROT), where adults, veterans and children with emotional and physical needs have a unique opportunity. According to TROT’s brochures, since 1974, its vision is “Unlocking human potential through equine partnerships… empowering people with diverse abilities to reach their full potential through equineassisted services”. TROT’s programs focus on emotional and physical needs. The members heard about non-speakers finding ways to communicate, mobility-challenged individuals finding freedom of movement, and trauma survivors finding healing. With many Psi members having worked with disabled children, the TROT experience was powerful.
The Psi sisters also toured Tucson’s Youth On Their Own (YOTO), a non-profit organization supporting unhoused youth. YOTO, founded in 1986, serves students in over 100 schools, supplying basic material needs, helping with necessary documents for jobs and paying stipends for school attendance, according to YOTO Manager Brittany Smith. The chapter donated over $300 to the project and made plans for their continued support.
A∆K
Hawai’i and Illinois Theta Chapters Meet
HI Theta chapter and IL Theta chapter had the opportunity to learn about each other’s state at a joint ZOOM meeting. HI Theta sisters shared the history of the ukulele and performed a hula. Meredith Ching demonstrated how to play the ukulele while members sang along to “Aloha Kakahiaka” or “Good Morning to You”. Harriet Carmody and former member Ethel Kubo danced the “Hukilau,” a hula dance showing how fishing was done in ancient Hawai’i. The Illinois sisters shared information about their state, followed by introductions and sharing something about themselves. It was a unique opportunity for both chapters to get to know each other. “We learned about each other’s state and had the opportunity to exchange ideas about our respective chapters and Alpha Delta Kappa,” according to Hedy Kaneoka and Linda Camp, Theta chapter publicity committee co-chairmen.
NC Beta
Beta, North Carolina’s oldest
A∆K chapter, celebrated its seventieth anniversary in February. The chapter began in 1955 with an initiation and installation of officers conducted by Agnes Shipman Robertson, the founder of A∆K, at the Robert E. Lee Hotel in Winston-Salem, NC. The anniversary celebration was held at the same hotel.
At the anniversary party, Coila King, Beta sergeant-at-arms, spoke on “Adventures in New Mexico,” describing the nine years she taught in the Navajo school on the reservation in New Mexico. She spoke of what she had learned living among the Navajo, the challenges the tribe faced and the chorus she created that traveled and performed outside the reservation.
Pictured are NC Beta Officers (L to R) Recording Secretary Marilyn Parker, Treasurer Joyce Gossett, Vice President Mary Jo Brewer, Corresponding Secretary Chris Andrews, President Nancy Norton, Chaplain Pat Messick and Sergeant-at-Arms Coila King. Photo by Barbara Foster.
OK Chi
LA Delta
LA Delta members (L to R) Anne Wise, Ruby Blackwell, Debbie Blanchette, Melissa Elrod, Cynthia McCord and Sharon Mahony practice the gentle chair-based yoga moves they were taught to keep themselves mobile and flexible.
Delta members Sharon Mahony and Lucy Brewer instructed their sisters on proper breathing, posture and joint position. At the beginning of the biennium, a meeting to focus on health and ways to reduce stress was chosen.
PA Delta
PA Delta’s new Golden Sister Prudence Peya holds the plush throw pillow embroidered with her name, anniversary year and the words “Fiftieth Anniversary” presented by her Delta sisters in celebration of her anniversary in Alpha Delta Kappa. Prudence joined on November 9, 1974. The Delta sisters sitting with her represent 134 years of loyal membership in A∆K. Pictured are (L to R) Sapphire Sisters Bonnie Brady and Betty Doerr, Prudence Peya, Silver Sister Patricia Gonzalez and Sapphire Sister Nancy Galasso.
VA Theta
Marsha Floyd, Lauren Floyd and Meisha Bordofske (L to R) hold the gifts they were given as the newest members of the OK Chi chapter. Standing with the new members are (L to R) Chapter Chaplain Nancy Hayes, Chi President Barbie Day, Past OK State President Marsha Armstrong and Chapter Historian Debbie Lunt.
VA Theta sisters are problem solvers. Bad weather caused the chapter to cancel its plans for Black History Month, so they combined their plans with a Mardi Gras celebration. Decked out in the purple, green and gold colors of Mardi Gras, they played a game about famous African American inventors. Guest speaker Betsy Biesenbach talked about Amanda Jeffries, the main character in her children’s book “Say My Name.” Chapter Co-Vice Presidents Mollie DeBerry and Salena Morton provided Mardi Gras-themed refreshments.
Chapter members donated books for Roanoke Melrose Towers and donated to the Audible Egg Hunt for visually impaired children.
Convention 2025
Voting Schedule
Only members registered for in-person or virtual attendance before 11:59 p.m. CT on May 1, 2025 are eligible to vote. Information about all ballot items is on the International website under the heading Membership and the sub-category “2025 Ballot Items.”
June 7 at 2 p.m. CT: The vote on Rules of the Convention and debate and vote on proposed Bylaw revisions, amendments and resolutions. Debate and voting are on ZOOM in real-time.
June 14-19: Online Voting for the International Altruistic Projects and Candidates, with a second round of voting on June 24-26 if needed.
Altruistic Projects
Alzheimer’s Association and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
American Heart Association and Alzheimer’s Association St .Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the American Heart Association Candidates
International President-Elect
Mary Ey
Charlene Lauria
Ann Quinlan
Four-Year Member International Executive Board
Ginger Greene
Lottie Roy
Rachel Shankles
Two-Year Member International Executive Board
Marla Hayden
Leslie Koenck
Gena Richardson
International Vice President for Membership
Kathy Beatty
June 14-19: Voting for the World Understanding Project. All members are eligible to vote.
Project Sol y Luna Resplandor
Project S.U.C.C.E.S.S. for the Lost Boys Kadanso School
Candidate and Altruistic election results will be announced to all members by email and posted on the 2025 Ballot Items page on the International website. The new World Understanding project will be announced at the International Convention.
Convention section cover: Lady Bird Lake reflects the downtown area of Austin, TX. Daniel LaBorde, International Headquarters digital communications coordinator, designed the cover.
STILL TIME TO JOIN IN
Registration forms, hotel information and the Scheduleat-a-Glance for the 2025 A∆K International Convention at the J W Marriott, Austin, TX, are on the International website under Membership>Events and Networking>International Convention. The schedule of events starts with the Educational Symposium on July 10 and ends with the installation of Conway Blankenship as International President at the Installation Banquet on July 13.
Voting Instructions
Before June 7, delegates will receive the ZOOM link for the meeting, an access key and a password.
The key and password are the delegate’s voting credentials for June 7. Voting will be done using Election Buddy.
Instructions for voting on candidates and the International Altruistic project will be sent to delegates before the voting dates June 14-19. Instructions for voting on the World Understanding project will be sent to all members before the voting dates, June 14-19, to select the project.
Delegates to Hear Candidates
The candidates offering for International offices will introduce themselves and have one minute to respond to a question in a real-time ZOOM meeting on Saturday, June 14, at 2 p.m. CT. Delegates will receive a link to the ZOOM session.
Recordings of the session will be available to all members on the International website after June 16.
Volunteer Opportunities
International Convention Sergeant-at-Arms Debbie Boswell, GA Beta Gamma, is looking for a sergeant-at-arms from every state, province and nation to help attendees get the most out of the convention experience. Chorus Director Lori Carnine, GA Alpha Rho, wants to add more voices. Contact Debbie and Lori to volunteer. Chorus rehearsals and performance times are on the Schedule-at-a-Glance.
Thank You to our Sponsors
Alpha Delta Kappa sincerely thanks our generous sponsors for their monetary contributions to our International Convention in Austin. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to these valued partners whose logos appear on the back cover of this issue.
• UMB (Banking and Investments)
• Trust for Insuring Educators (TIE)
• CSI (Data Provider)
• Black Forest (A∆K Jewelry provider)
• Next Page (Printer)
• Visit Spokane (Visitors Bureau)
• 4Imprint (Promotional Products)
Making the Most of Technology at International Convention
By Julie Kinder-McMillan, KAPPAN Correspondent
Technology can be a double-edged sword – sometimes a blessing and sometimes a curse. No matter how it is viewed, technology undeniably plays an integral role in planning and executing large-scale gatherings such as the International Convention. Organizers have thoughtfully considered how to leverage technology to streamline members’ convention experience, which yields other side benefits such as heightened engagement and reduced costs. Convention attendees will see multiple digital tools in use at the event. Having advance notice of what to expect and taking a few key steps prior to leaving home can increase members’ comfort level with technological innovations.
Convention attendees will have already taken a major step by registering online through the Cvent site. As at the 2023 International Convention in Kansas City and the 2024 regional conferences, attendees will check in at the registration desk via an iPad. The only information required is the name of the attendee (guests and A∆KA members must also register in Cvent upon arrival). A badge will be printed with a QR code that provides the ticket (and in some cases, seat assignment) for all pre-registered Educational Symposium sessions and other events.
The Cvent app is the same one previously used and allows members to watch the live stream, chat, post to a message board, search for other attendees, view the hotel map, complete feedback surveys and access recordings. In-person and virtual attendees will have the same access within the Cvent app. If members prefer to log on with a computer web browser, they may do so through the “attendee hub,” which has all the same features as the Cvent app. A help desk led by HQ Financial Advisor Laura Vervynck will be available on-site to assist with questions on the spot, and members can also “send a note to the host” to get assistance remotely.
An exciting new addition to the convention will be the PhotoCircle app. This app is specifically designed to facilitate the submission of event photos. Photos submitted via this app may be displayed on screens during the event, posted to social media, and used in archives. Users will need a mobile device to submit photos.
“The advantage of using PhotoCircle is that we can easily pull the entire collection of photos and later make it available at no cost via a link posted on our members-only website,” Vervynck shared.
HQ Event Planner and Executive Assistant Paula Henry confirmed that “technology at the convention has definitely grown and allows us to enhance the atmosphere” while making the overall experience both comprehensible and enjoyable for attendees. Features such as large screens, confidence monitors and cameras are commonplace at such events today. They will be managed along
with sound, lighting and live stream and/or recordings by the professional audio-visual partner Markey’s. Rather than asking the Assistant Sergeant-at-Arms to assist with AV setup for the Educational Symposium sessions, professional AV personnel will be available to troubleshoot presentation tools in the breakout rooms.
Another new tech element will be three screens positioned in the foyer, the gathering area right outside the general session meeting room. These screens will display a variety of material, including scrolling committee reports, photographs and other important information for convention participants.
“Based on a lot of feedback we have received about information presented on stage, we are trying to reduce the reading of scripts and committee reporting to make the activities on stage more dynamic,” Vervynck stated. However, because that information is still valuable, committee reports and photos of the chairs will be highlighted on the small screens for members to review. Vervynck and Henry emphasized the importance of giving committees due recognition for their work during the biennium, which is why many of the chairs will be invited onstage to introduce panel members and speakers.
Another aspect of the 2025 Convention the organizers tweaked based on member input is the voting process. In 2023, candidates spoke on video, and members entered votes on a JotForm during the pre-convention period. “Based on feedback, we revised the logistics of the voting to have the feel of a live debate without it actually happening onsite in Austin,” Vervynck stated.
Members who are wary of or feel overwhelmed by unfamiliar technology can alleviate stress by planning ahead.
“We encourage everybody to get the Cvent app downloaded beforehand,” Vervynck said. The app is available in both the App Store (iPhone) and Google Play (Android) by searching “Cvent Events.” Members should install the app and log in as soon as possible (the app may need to be updated if installed previously). Once in the app, search for the event name: 2025 International Convention. Instructions will be sent via email to participants before the Convention. Some Educational Symposium pre-recorded sessions may already be available in the app for members to watch when they log in.
Members can also go ahead and set up the PhotoCircle app so they will be ready to share photos during the event. Another suggestion is to ensure that any personal apps members plan to use while in Austin such as Uber or Lyft are fully updated and ready to go with log-in info and credit card information preloaded to avoid last-minute scrambling under time pressure.
If all this tech talk still generates nerves, members can take heart that organizers have them covered.
Y’all Come Back Now and Other Texanisms
University of Texas professor Guy Bailey has been studying the Texas ‘twang’ for ten years. He has discovered that the ‘twang’, while being used less, is not disappearing. He found that young people are becoming increasingly bidialectal, using flattened vowels for words like night (naht) more regularly. People may choose to use a local manner of speaking for casual conversation and a more mainstream American English version for professional or academic settings. He says that all regions have expressions and pronunciations particular to the area. None are more colorful than in Texas.
Should we expect to hear the Queen’s English in Austin this summer? More likely, twang or no twang, we’ll hear some “Texas English,” specific phrases meaningful to people who have lived in the state all their lives. How many Texas-isms will you incorporate into your vocabulary before traveling to Texas this summer?
“All hat, no cattle,” “All broth and no beans,” or someone who acts like they “can strut sittin’ down” refers to someone with an ego not even a ten-gallon hat can hold.
People in Texas may refer to “corn-eatin’” horses or “corn-fed” boys,” which tends to mean that the person or critter in question is big. Tall, buff, broad-shouldered men are often referred to in this way.
“Fixin’ to,” often pronounced as “Fixin’ tuh,” means someone is about to do something, as in “fixin’ to” go to the store.
“Jeetjet?” A common greeting, before hitting the buffet, may be followed by “Squeat,” pronounced “Skweet” – for “Let’s go eat.”
“Bless your heart” can mean “I’m sorry to hear that.” But often, it’s used as an insult, as when a Texan meets someone rude, boastful or otherwise out of touch. That person might earn a slow head shake and a “Bless your heart.”
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“We have listened to feedback,” Henry stated, “and a streamlined printed program will be provided.” This will contain the agenda at-a-glance, Educational Symposium sessions, and a map of the hotel. Displaying items such as the national anthems on the screens instead of including them in a booklet is a tremendous cost savings. “We can give the ladies the essential things they need in print and scroll the rest on screens,” Henry noted. Members can also print and bring their own list of sessions from the registration confirmation they received via email.
“Technology allows us to modernize the process as we try to give members what they want and what they need,” Henry said. “We have seen a lot of members really embracing the app. Our goal is to make this as easy as possible for everyone.”
Vervynck agreed, stating, “Using these strategies helps us keep
Ordering a “Coke?” Be prepared to answer what kind. In Texas, “coke” refers to any kind of soda.
“That’s a whole ‘nuther can o’ worms” means a different issue entirely.
Other Texas phrases include: “Keep your saddle oiled and your gun greased,” —- Be prepared
“Lick that calf again?” — Repeat that?
“Not my barn, not my cattle” or “Skin your own buffalo” — Mind your own business.
“Why shear a pig?” — Don’t waste time and effort.
“Don’t squat on your spurs” — Don’t act without thinking. Ouch!
“Lie down with dogs and get up with fleas.” — Actions have consequences.
“Any mule’s tail can catch burrs” — Hardships can, and will, touch everybody.
“It’s so dry I’m spittin’ cotton.” — Referring to dry conditions
“Hotter’n a honeymoon hotel.” — It’s really hot!
“The wind’s blowing like perfume through a prom.” — Referring to gusty weather.
Keenan suggests that “at the end of the day, newcomers to the Lone Star State shouldn’t be too worried about keeping up with the lingo. The most important thing is to say “Howdy,” offer a solid handshake, and meet Southern hospitality with a friendly attitude. With that done, most Texans will be happy to show you how to ‘two-step through a Texas chat.’”
Cowgirl Sue Pelchat drew on her skill as a linguist and the internet to compile a list of expressions to get you talkin’ like a Texan.
the registration cost as low as possible and break even on the Convention, which is the goal.”
Several members at SER in 2024 approached Vervynck, saying they were over 80 and wanted her help getting on board with the Cvent app. By the end of the conference, they were all successfully using Cvent. “These ladies told me they were tired of being underestimated by people who assumed they were not interested in learning to use technology,” she said.
Sisters can attend the 2025 International Convention with the confidence that organizers have made decisions about technology with members’ best interests at heart. If someone is not proficient with technology, help will be nearby. Knowing what to expect and taking action ahead of time will help – in this case –make technology more of a blessing than a curse.
International Convention Keynote Speakers
Rachel Terlop
Rachel Terlop of IA Alpha Delta is the 2025 Jacqueline Lougheed World Understanding Lecturer. International President Ann Marie Brown selected Rachel for her extensive work promoting world understanding. Rachel will speak during the afternoon session on Saturday, July 12.
“Rachel Terlop is a testament to the power of education and global understanding. Her impressive credentials and varied experiences make her an ideal speaker for the Jacqueline Lougheed World Understanding Lecture Series,” said President Ann Marie.
Past International President Jacqueline Lougheed established the honor. The first honoree spoke at the 2007 International Convention in San Diego, CA. Jacqueline, a professor at Oakland University in Michigan, served as International President from 1999 to 2001. She joined the Omega chapter in 2006.
Rachel has taught in Nairobi, Kenya; Frederick, MD; and Washington, D.C. After being awarded the Henry Ford’s Teacher Innovator Award in 2019, she trained as an academic coach in Uganda. In 2023, she joined the Simpson’s College, Indianola, IA, faculty as an early childhood special education professor. Rachel is described on her webpage as having a “passion for art, technology and creative expression with young children.” Her first children’s book, “Maggie the Moomaid,” won a Mom’s Choice Award in 2020 and a Family Choice Award in 2022.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from Baldwin Wallace University in Ohio and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Trinity Washington University, Washington DC. Her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Divinity and her PhD in Transpersonal Counseling are through the University of Metaphysical Sciences (UMS) in Arizona. Dr. Terlop is currently completing a PhD at George Mason University, VA.
Langston Moore and Preston Thorne
Langston Moore and Preston Thorne will share their move from the football field to the field of writing children’s books at the general session on Saturday morning, July 12.
The pair met in the early 2000s as defensive linemen for the South Carolina Gamecocks. Now, they are the authors of three popular books for readers ages four through eight. Their first book, “#JustaChicken,” was published in 2015. “Just a Chicken Little” came out in 2019 and “Usta Wuz a Rooster” in 2022. The stories inspire young readers to “encourage the greatness that lies within all of us to come out.”
Thorne is the University of Southern Carolina Outreach Coordinator and Student Success Coach in the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the College of Education. He is a former high school history teacher and football coach.
Moore played in the National Football League for seven years, including the Cincinnati Bengals, the Arizona Cardinals, the Detroit Lions and the Florida Tuskers. He is currently a sideline reporter for the Gamecock Sports Network. He also established the EAT2WIN Football Fundamental Camp, a program to fight childhood obesity.
Both men are members of Artists and Athletes, a program that promotes literacy.
Congress Avenue is the Place for Souvenir Shopping
Looking for that perfect souvenir to take home is almost as much fun as finding it. Shannon Lorenzo-Rivero, a KAPPAN correspondent, offers some suggestions of where you might look. Ladies, this is the place for you if you are a quilter. The Honey Bee Quilt Store is at 930 Anderson Mill Road in Austin. It has been in business for 20 years, and the extensive store features original Texas and Austin patterns and lots of fabric with these themes. You are sure to find something to your liking. Toy Joy, at 403 W 2nd Street in downtown Austin, is the place to find that perfect gift. It has been ranked as one of the ten best toy stores in the world, stocked with unusual toys that cannot be found anywhere else. The store has several locations in Aus-
tin, including one at Gate 12 at the Austin Bergstrom International Airport. Big Top Candy, located at 1706 S Congress Avenue, is decked out in antique circus memorabilia. Described as “The Most Amazing Candy Store the World Has Ever Known,” it boasts an old-fashioned soda fountain and ice cream case, specialty chocolates and fudge, over 400 bulk candies, and 3,000 wrapped candies, from nostalgic favorites to new creations from across the globe. The store has something to satisfy every sweet tooth. Allen’s Boots at 1522 S Congress Avenue has all the gear to complete your western look. Texas-themed Christmas ornaments and souvenirs can be found at The Texas Capitol Gift Shop, 1400 Congress Avenue.
To and Fro
Service to and from the JW Austin Marriott is available from Carter Transpor- tation, Austin. Make reservations for the shuttle, private sedan, SUV or premium van at SuperShuttle.com. Use discount code 2UE24 for the shared-ride service. Service with a reservation is available 24 hours.
Transportation to state dinners and events away from the hotel can be booked online with “Around Town” and/or “Hourly” or contact Sales@CarterTransportation Aus- tin.com. The phone number for Carter is 512-258-3826.
Rideshare services Uber and Lyft are also available.
FL Alpha Sigma Builds Connections
“The heart of FL Alpha Sigma lies in the strength of our connections,” says Alpha Sigma Co-President Claudette McCann. At a recent chapter meeting, the sisters worked together to complete a puzzle of the logo of FL State President Caroline Gilmore.
“The activity wasn’t just about completing a puzzle; it was about working together, communicating and supporting each other every step of the way,” Claudette explained. “As we fitted each piece into place, we were reminded of how important it is to rely on one another to accomplish our goals. Much like the puzzle pieces, each member of Alpha Sigma brings something unique to the table, but it is our collective effort that makes us whole.”
The chapter continues to build connections by donating over $500 in cash and gift cards to the Families in Transition (F.I.T.) program at Leon County Schools. The program supports families living in transitional housing. Marsha Sanders, Ph.D., Director of Student Services for Leon County Schools, spoke to the members about the essential services F.I.T. provides. Alpha Sigma Co-Altruistic Chairmen Peggy Harter and Asia Ross introduced the F.I.T. program to members and shared how the chapter could help.
Humor
Knowing Your Joints
The fifth-grade students had an assignment to pretend to travel from the East Coast to the West Coast. As they traveled through the states, they were to find historical sites. As the librarian, I had collected materials to help them. The assignment was due, and two students came in to find some last-minute information. One student asked me, “Ms. Smith, do you have anything on bloody elbow?” Without cracking a smile, I replied, “Do you mean Wounded Knee?”
~ Minetta Smith, TX Beta
In the spring, we took our third-grade students on a lock-and-dam cruise of Pitts- burgh’s rivers. The day before the field trip, I explained in detail how a lock works. After school that day, one of the mothers came in to tell me that she had a bone to pick with me. It seems that when her son arrived home, she asked him what he had done in school that day. Of course, he replied, “Nothing.” She said, “Didn’t Mrs. Hayduk tell you about tomorrow’s trip?” “Oh, yeah,” he replied, “we’re going on some dam cruise.”
~ Ellen Hayduk, PA Delta
Presenting the chapter’s F.I.T. donations to Dr. Marsha Sanders (center) are Alpha Sigma members (L to R) Barbara Donaldson, Peggy Harter, Asia Ross and Tamika Brown.
(L to R) Brenda Sherard, Kathy Allman and Karen Hatfield look for the next piece of the heart.
Dorothy Vaio Remembering the Last Dodo
By Mollie Acosta, Immediate Past International President
Dorothy Vaio, California Beta, joined Omega on March 2, 2025, just six months before she would have turned 100. She was one of a kind, the last living DoDo, the group of A∆K leaders who served as Province Chairman until the position was retired. The group chose the name to show they were extinct, but that didn’t keep them from continuing to serve the organization. The Austin Convention will be the first International Convention with no DoDos in attendance. Dorothy was one of seven living Platinum Sisters, having been a member of Alpha Delta Kappa for more than 70 years.
Dorothy was initiated as a charter member of California Beta on August 25, 1953, by Founder Agnes Robertson. Dorothy served in many leadership roles, including California State President, 1960-1962, and Grand Vice President of the Southwest Region, 1965-1967. She served as Province IV Chairman, 1969-1972, which allowed her to charter several new chapters in California and Hawai’i. She and dear friend and A∆K sister, Mayme Chinn, International President, 19851987 and Executive Board Chairman, 1987-1989, had many
dear friends in Hawai’i, as well as throughout the organization. Together, they mentored countless upcoming leaders, including many in their own chapters.
After Mayme joined Omega in March of 2020, Dorothy continued her passion for our beloved organization. She was a moving force for California, the Southwest Region, and Internationally. Without her guidance, I would not be where I am in the organization today. She will be dearly missed. We cherish the six remaining Platinum Sisters. Their wisdom and knowledge of Alpha Delta Kappa is a gift to us all.
Our gratitude goes to Gloria Sandoval, Dorothy’s caregiver, who made it possible for Dorothy to stay in the comfort of her own home and continue attending A∆K activities. To honor Dorothy’s more than seventy years of devotion to the organization, donations may be made at https://www.alphadeltakappa.org/Foundation/Donate/Alpha Delta Kappa Foundation or mailed to Alpha Delta Kappa, 1615 W. 92nd St, Kansas City, MO 64114-3210 with Foundation Donation in the memo line, in honor of Dorothy Vaio.
A∆K Dates and Deadlines
To Err is Human
Hazel B. Stanton, GA State President from 2006-2008, was listed in error as a Golden Sister in the December KAPPAN. She became a Diamond Sister in April. Congratulations, Hazel, on 60 years of A∆K membership.