September 2025 KAPPAN

ALPHA DELTA KAPPA

Alpha Delta KAPPAN

Features & Departments

5

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

KAPPAN EDITORIAL BOARD

Conway Blankenship, International President

Mary Ey, International President-Elect

Ann Marie Brown, Immediate Past International President

Christi Smith, Executive Director

KAPPAN PHOTO EDITOR

Betty Sherrod

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 December issue is October 1, 2025. Share with KAPPAN readers a significant moment for your chapter in 2025.

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.

International President’s Message

Welcome to the 2025-2027 biennium. We actually began on July 14 at the conclusion of our International Convention in Austin, Texas. Many of you were there with me when the logo and biennium theme, “Evolving Together” was shared. I felt your support. I needed your support. Anyone who has ever stood before a room full of women and men with expectant looks upon their faces, will remember the time with mixed emo tions. There’s excitement, nervousness and, if truth be told, a little anxiety. As I stood behind the podium, I remembered one of the many mentors I have been fortunate to have on my leadership journey, telling me to take my time and enjoy the experience. I remembered a yoga instructor once advised taking a deep, cleansing breath as an excellent way to calm yourself. Those voices were alongside me, and I took their advice.

I share these truthful memories with you because, for many years, members have told me they could never stand behind a podium and address a large group of people. Before Alpha Delta Kappa provided me with new, challenging experiences and members supported and encouraged me, I felt the same way. My thirty-nine years of membership have not only provided me with lots of friends with similar interests, but they have also provided me with opportunities to continue growing and learning through my retirement. Is there anything better?

positions for years. I want to know how you feel about our organization, and I want to know how we can improve. We know education is not what it was in 1947 when Agnes saw a need to form Alpha Delta Kappa. Our world is constantly changing, and we need to meet the challenges and make a difference for today’s educators and the children they teach. Isn’t that what Agnes would want us to do?

So, how can you share your thoughts, concerns and ideas with me other than the usual emails, phone calls or text messages? You can share with your S/P/N leaders and your regional leaders. You can share with the women who have stepped up to serve on our International Committees and Boards this biennium, as well as the elected women on the International Executive Board. I plan to periodically offer open ZOOM sessions. These sessions will not have an agenda or a PowerPoint. They will be openended and designed for the purpose of meeting members and hearing their thoughts. At this time, I do not know exactly how it’s going to work. Just like an open house you may have offered your neighbors, you plan for fifty and only ten come to your door, or you plan for fifty and seventy-five neighbors surprise you. Different time zones and different days of the week will be considered. Together, we’ll work out the details. Our first “Gather Together” time will be in September and will be announced, along with a ZOOM link, in International News.

As we begin this biennium together, I want you to know I am honored to be your International President. I am proud and happy to hold the title and serve you. However, I am only one person. During the next two years, I expect and need involvement from our members at all levels. I want to hear from our newest members and those who have served in leadership

“Evolving Together” is more than a theme. Your voice is important and needed. We cannot evolve and remain a vibrant, meaningful organization unless we pull together. Thank you in advance for the contributions you will make this biennium. Thank you for already making the commitment to be an involved, active member.

Conway Blankenship

A Leadership Journey in Alpha Delta Kappa

Ann Marie Brown

This is the speech delivered by International President Ann Marie Brown at the International Installation Banquet in Austin, TX.

Aleadership journey in Alpha Delta Kappa (A∆K) opened my world to meeting so many remarkable sisters—leaders who have touched my life, encouraged me, and on whose shoulders I proudly stand.

Little did I know, when I first served as chapter president, that I was laying the groundwork for my personal “Bridge to the Future.” Wanting to learn more about this incredible organization, I attended my first Northeast Regional Conference in 1996 in Providence, Rhode Island, and my first International Convention in 1997 in Kansas City, marking the 50th anniversary of Alpha Delta Kappa. I was captivated.

Soon after, I became active at the state level in New York. As state president, I built strong bonds with fellow leaders in the Northeast Region. We reunited often, enjoying Broadway shows in New York City and even taking a return trip to Providence in 2018. Eight of us had served as S/P/N presidents during the 2003 Dallas Convention, when Betty Nan Carroll was International President.

After two unsuccessful bids for International office, I was elected a Two-Year Member in 2013. Losing an election is never easy, but you move on. After relocating to Arizona, I served as S/P/N treasurer and Chair of the International Bylaws Committee. When one door closes, another opens.

Serving on the 2013–2015 International Executive Board alongside International President June Bellamy and Executive Board Chair Ivette Bender was truly meaningful.

Many of you may have seen the Broadway musical “Hamilton”. One of its songs, “The Room Where It Happens,” deeply resonates with me.

Our Board visited Mount Moriah Cemetery in Kansas City to pay tribute to Founder Agnes Shipman Robertson. Her headstone now bears the A∆K logo—thanks to that Board’s efforts.

That same biennium, we laid the groundwork for something new: the establishment of Alpha Delta Kappa Collegiate Clubs. Lynette Varner served as the first advisor for the Ball State Collegiate Club. I’m proud to say that five Collegiate Club members are with us at this Convention. They are not just our future—they are our present.

In 2015, I was elected International Vice President (IVP) of

the Southwest Region. Since 2012, the Southwest and Northwest Regions have held joint conferences. In 2016, IVP Mary Jane Henderson and I co-planned the third joint conference, held on the Santa Ana Pueblo in New Mexico. Next summer, we’ll continue that collaborative spirit with three regional conferences—sure to be memorable based on today’s warm invitations.

The “Spirited Seven” IVPs of the 2015-2017 biennium were mentored by IVP for Membership Judy Ganzert, and we received strong support from IP Ruth Ann Griggs. At the 2017 Convention in New Orleans, we did let the good times roll.

In the room where it happened In 2016, although not on the Board, I witnessed a historic moment—the IEB opened A∆K membership to retired women educators, a request that members had been advocating for years. That same year, I was elected by the IEB to serve as a Four-Year Member from 2017 to 2021. We were in Kansas City for our International Chapter May meeting, and Past Executive Board Chair Barbara Stanfield asked me to meet her for breakfast. I accepted and was honored to be elected. At the first IEB meeting in New Orleans, I was elected IEB Chair, serving alongside International President Susan Pelchat from 2017 to 2019.

In the room where it happened? That biennium, we applied to the IRS for 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status; in response to a resolution, the flags of all our nations were installed at Headquarters; “Kaleidoscope” was engaged for scholarship processing; a second open-member group tour of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital was arranged in Memphis,TN and an Executive Director Succession Plan was designed with the advice of hired consultant, David Fellers.

At the 2019 Minneapolis Convention, our IEB—also serving as the Foundation Board—performed a hilarious skit, reminiscent of Johnny Carson’s Carnac the Magnificent, during the evening entertainment. Sue Pelchat wrote the script; board members donned gypsy costumes. Foundation Vice Chair Gloria Beatson, our beloved Carnac, and Foundation Chair Ruth Ann Griggs, her witty sidekick, had us all in stitches.

By November 2019, under the leadership of International President Judy Ganzert and IEB Chair Sandy Wolfe, plans for an in-person convention in Austin were well underway. Foundation Chair Sue Pelchat even purchased cowgirl hats and bandanas in anticipation. Then the world changed.

Then the world changed. COVID-19 swept across the globe. Judy’s theme, “Infinite Possibilities,” became a rallying cry as we pivoted to ZOOM Rooms and collaborated through Google Docs.

The “Dauntless Seven” IVPs—Terry Peyton (Gulf),

Roberta Casabon (North Central), Mary Ey (Northeast), Susan Rae Long (Northwest), Cynthia White (South Central), Conway Blankenship (Southeast), and Kitty Nutting (Southwest)— worked tirelessly to deliver the ground-breaking 2020 All Regions Virtual Conference.

Ultimately, we had to cancel the in-person convention, but in true A∆K spirit, the 2021 Virtual International Convention was innovative, stylish and memorable. I was installed as International President-Elect during that event.

In the room where it happened:

• The succession plan was implemented, and IEB hired Christi Smith as Executive Director in 2021.

• The Foundation became a separate Missouri nonprofit with its own Board of Directors.

• New roles were established: Regional President and Regional President-Elect.

• These roles were filled at the 2022 Regional Conferences, aligning regional leadership with chapter and S/P/N biennia.

The 2021–2023 IEB, led by Chair Bev Card and the International Chapter under the leadership of International President Mollie Acosta, primarily met via ZOOM with only one in-person meeting held each year in Kansas City.

In the Room where it happened:

• Years of planning came to fruition.

• The International Vice President for Membership role became a voting member of the IEB, expanding the Board to twelve.

• At the end of the 75th Anniversary Convention, we retired the roles of International Chapter, International Executive Board Chair, the International Vice Presidents of the Regions, and appointed Regional Membership Consultants.

The Regional Leadership Transition successfully aligned the biennia of service from even year to even year. Our Pioneer Regional Presidents (RPs) for 2023–2024—Lottie Roy, Nancy Bishop, Judy Hornsby, Helen Foster, Nancy Thompson, Carol Peace and Mary Ann Englehart—each served a one-year term as Regional Presidents-Elect (RPEs) before stepping into the role of RP and presiding over the respective 2024 Regional Conferences.

We are grateful for their leadership during this pivotal year of transition. The newly installed 2024–2026 regional leadership teams are now in place and ready to serve. A special thank you to our Regional Vice Presidents for Membership (RVPMs), who have committed to a three-year term to help bridge this transition— your dedication is deeply appreciated.

I have been so fortunate to serve as your International President alongside the incredible 2023–2025 International Executive Board. They make me look good! Working with International President-Elect Conway Blankenship and Immediate Past International President Mollie Acosta in a shared leadership model has been key to implementing our new governance structure.

Thank you, sisters and guests, for your attention, your enthusiasm, and your love for Alpha Delta Kappa.

I hope this Austin Convention becomes part of your “Room Where It Happened” memories for years to come.

Convention attendees and tourists line up along the Congress Avenue Bat Bridge in anticipation of the nightly flight of millions of bats.

The Circle of Alpha Delta Kappa

The explanation of the 2025-2027 was given by International President Conway Blankenship during the Installation Banquet in Austin, TX.

Exceptional Excellence: These are two words that describe Alpha Delta Kappa members. Everyone gathered here tonight, along with those who are unable to attend, is exceptional. Our members are excellent educators. It’s something we have in common. It is what initially brought us together. These two words speak to the essence of Alpha Delta Kappa.

When I started thinking about the 2025-2027 logo, I was challenged to come up with a symbol that would not only represent who we are but also serve as inspiration for the biennium.

Throughout history, the circle has been a powerful shape recognized and utilized by humans. These symbolic representations honor the myriad circles that exist in nature. Consider the sun and the moon. Have you ever been homesick, gazing at the moon, and suddenly comforted when realizing your loved ones could be looking at the same moon at the same time? Did it bring you a sense of nearness?

Circles represent wholeness. They hold energy and represent connectedness. Circles are inclusive. Think about the circles that are evident in your life. Your collegiate ring, maybe your engagement or wedding ring. What about teams that gather in a circle to share strategy or chant a cheer together? Friends around a campfire telling stories? And how about the circles our members create before singing The Lamp of Alpha Delta Kappa?

esting circles.

Last summer, when I attended regional conferences, I became even more aware of circles. I saw examples everywhere. Friendship circles were evident whenever members happily greeted each other with hugs. I noticed circles opening to allow others to join in discussions. I witnessed smiles and heard laughter around circles of seated women across our provinces, nations and states.

I’m sure by now you realize our 2025-2027 International logo must include a circle. You are correct. We begin with a circle consisting of our three colors: green, yellow and purple. Look closely. You will see the circle is not closed. That opening is purposeful. It encourages us to welcome new ideas, as well as new members. It’s open to allow us to continue evolving as an organization to meet the needs of our current members and other educators we want to support. Look very closely and you will notice the ends are split into four segments, this is a nod to our beginnings.

The logo has to represent Alpha Delta Kappa as we move forward. We wanted a professional, polished and fresh look that would be recognized outside our organization, so our colorized trademarked letters are included within our circle.

Throughout our lives, each of us has created our own unique set of circles. Our earliest circles included our family members and our childhood friends. Today, our circles are filled with colleagues, family, friends and chapter members. Many of us are involved in church circles or book clubs or other inter-

Our theme asks us to listen and to learn from one another as we remember our history and our purposes. In addition, it asks us to reflect on today’s world and to evolve as we continue to be an organization that makes a difference for years to come. We are “Evolving Together.”

Many thanks to Terry Peyton, Roberta Casabon and Daniel LaBorde for actively serving on the 2025-2027 International Logo/Theme committee.

Building Belonging, One Connection at a Time

By Kathy Beatty, International Vice President for Membership

Driven by purpose and passion, the International Membership Committee (IMC) has spent the past two years focused on what matters most—our members. We dedicated time to learning from one another, discussing books and expert videos, listening to members across the organization and leading thoughtful efforts to both strengthen current connections and grow new ones. Along the way, we sparked meaningful conversations, built momentum and reimagined what it truly means to belong.

Relationship-Building with Current and Prospective Members

Building genuine relationships has been at the core of the efforts of the IMC. Whether reconnecting with long-time members or reaching out to prospective ones, we have learned that meaningful conversations are key to getting new members and keeping current members. These interactions go beyond surface-level check-ins—they are opportunities to listen deeply, understand what motivates each member, and uncover their “why” for joining and staying. When we take the time to hear personal stories, learn about passions, and acknowledge challenges, we create a membership experience that reflects what members truly want and value. It is through these conversations that we build the kind of organization women want to be part of—and stay part of.

to build meaningful relationships. Stay tuned for a new grant opportunity coming in the year ahead.

This past spring marked the first cohort for the “Building Bridges of Belonging Through Onboarding” program. The chapters involved had previously participated in the initial “Educators Are Heroes Grant” cohort and had initiated at least one new member. This cohort focused on the New Member Onboarding process developed by the IMC during this biennium. The onboarding approach pairs each new member with a mentor— someone other than their original sponsor—to encourage fresh connections and broaden relationships within the chapter. The mentor and new member meet regularly and engage in relationshipbuilding conversations that help newcomers discover and connect with their personal “why” for being part of the organization. The next cohort will begin in early fall.

…strong relationships are at the heart of a strong organization.

Virtual Chapter for Sustaining Members

Since June 2024, three cohorts have participated in the “Educators Are Heroes Grants” program. After attending a virtual training, chapters received $75 to host an event for prospective members. Altogether, 265 chapters have completed training focused on the impact of relationship-building and the value of hosting social events that give current and prospective members a chance to connect. Of the 221 chapters that participated in the first two cohorts, 156 chapters initiated at least one new member. Chapter reflections overwhelmingly shared that they enjoyed planning social events that provided relaxed opportunities for current and prospective members to connect, discovering firsthand the benefits of listening to one another

As part of our ongoing focus on connection and belonging, the IMC has explored opportunities to support virtual chapters within Alpha Delta Kappa. In those conversations, one clear need emerged: creating a space for sustaining members—those who are no longer part of a physical chapter but remain members of their state, province or nation. With that in mind, a new Virtual Chapter for Sustaining Members was launched this past spring. This initiative offers members a meaningful way to engage with one another, build relationships across our organization and stay actively involved in Alpha Delta Kappa and the sisterhood. The chapter will meet quarterly, with the first gathering for next year scheduled for the end of September.

As we look back on the progress of the past two years, one thing remains clear: strong relationships are at the heart of a strong organization. Whether through onboarding, social events, training or new initiatives like the Virtual Chapter, our efforts have centered on building meaningful connections that last. The IMC remains committed to listening, learning, and leading with heart, ensuring every member, new or seasoned, feels seen, valued and inspired to belong. And with each new conversation, we continue to grow—not just in numbers, but in purpose and unity.

Kathy Beatty

Members Express Gratitude for Grants

Every biennium, the Alpha Delta Kappa Foundation awards thousands of dollars in grant money to support classroom activities of members and non-members. Two recent recipients shared their gratitude and how they used their grants.

Phillippia Fuqua was teaching at East Limestone High School in Athens, Alabama, as an art teacher when she found that the funds for her program had been reduced. Beth Danner, past president of AL Delta, also a teacher at Limestone, shared information with Phillippia about the A∆K Innovation Grant, assisted her in filling out the application and wrote a letter of recommendation for her. Phillippia received one of the nine Innovation Grants awarded during the past biennium.

Innovation Grants are for non-members who have had no more than ten years of teaching experience and are recommended by an A∆K member. The grant, according to the guidelines, is “designed to assist creative, innovative educators who are not members of A∆K with the cost of materials and services for their classroom lessons.”

Phillippia used her $300 grant money to purchase light pads (tracing tables) for her classroom. The light pads “provided a valuable opportunity to introduce a hands-on 2D animation unit to my secondary visual arts students. The light pads proved to be indispensable tools for our flip book animation process. The Alpha Delta Kappa Innovation Grant empowered my students to explore the exciting world of 2D animation in a meaningful and effective way. The light pads were an invaluable resource that directly contributed to increased engagement, skill development and the overall success of my students. I am incredibly grateful for the support of the Alpha Delta Foundation. Thank you for making this learning experience possible for my students,” she said in her letter to the Innovation Grants Committee.

While working on the grant application, Beth shared information about Alpha Delta Kappa. Phillippia recognized both what the organization offered to her and what she could contribute to the organization. She was initiated into AL Delta chapter in February 2025.

Roxanne Price, a member of IL Beta Zeta, received a $400 Classroom Grant. “The Classroom Grant is designed to provide funds to assist creative, innovative A∆K educators with the cost of materials and services that will enhance classroom lessons,” according to the Foundation website.

Roxanne, an Elementary School Supervisor in the Marion Community School District Two, used her grant funds to support the school library. “Your generous contribution has

allowed us to expand our book collection across multiple genres and add an engaging genre spinning wheel that is already sparking excitement and curiosity among our young readers. Thank you for investing in literacy, imagination and the future of our learners. Your partnership truly made a difference,” Roxanne wrote in her letter thanking the organization.

“Your donations to the A∆K Foundation do make a difference,” said Mary Ann Gerdes, International chair of the Scholarship and Grants Committee. “You can make a difference by assisting creative, innovative, active educators with funding for their services for their classroom lessons. Maybe you know an educator who is not a member of A∆K and has been employed in the education field for ten years or less. If you don’t, don’t hesitate to contact your local school principal and request an appointment to discuss reaching out to an educator who qualifies for this grant. Work with the applicant on the application and develop a relationship where you can share information about Alpha Delta Kappa that relates to her interests. You might be surprised what happens,” Mary Ann said.

Applications, directions and help for the Innovation and Classroom grants and other grants funded by the A∆K Foundation are on the International website under the Foundation tab. The names of grant recipients are also on the website.

Mary Ann, a four-year member of the International Executive Board, ended her term with the start of the new biennium. “Over the past four years, I have had the honor and privilege of serving on the International Executive Board, and one of my committee assignments was serving on the Scholarship and Grants Committee, first as a member and now as its chair. I am a former recipient of two regional mini scholarships, and the impact of this recognition as an educator, as well as serving as Nebraska State President, made me appreciate what I had received. The International Scholarship and Grants Committee has directly involved those sisters who volunteer their time and knowledge in serving on a scholarship or grant committee in the post-cycle review, which has improved the quality of scholarship and grant applications and led to modifications of several scholarships and grants with the approval of the International Executive Board. The Legacy Scholarship was established this past year. It is Alpha Delta Kappa sisters making a difference by supporting our A∆K Foundations through donations that make the scholarships and grants available to both members and non-members,” Mary Ann said.

Information in this article provided by Mary Ann Gerdes, 2023-2025 Scholarship and Grants Committee chair, Past International President Judy Ganzert and A∆K Foundation Chair Sandy Wolfe.

From Hesitation to Engagement: Reimagining CONNECT

By Marg Nieradka, Ontario Sigma, Ontario Membership Chair, Immediate Past Provincial President and Member of

the CONNECT Committee

In Alpha Delta Kappa, the presence of differing opinions and approaches is both natural and valuable. As CONNECT committee members who strive to pave the way for comfortable and habitual CONNECT usage, we view hesitation not as resistance but as an opportunity to build understanding, inspire innovation and foster deeper connections. The CONNECT committee operates with just such a vision.

Our journey toward collaboration began with one key principle: empathy. When we speak with members about their hesitation to use CONNECT, we listen with curiosity, not judgment. Creating an environment where everyone feels heard and valued fosters trusting relationships, which are often the cornerstone of building connections and uniting perspectives.

Open, respectful and inclusive communication is the key to addressing member concerns. Ongoing conversations have allowed everyone to share their perspectives, directly shaping multiple training modules. Member discussions about roadblocks have informed the design of a collaborative training model with the end goal of developing shared solutions. These interactive sessions focus on shared problem-solving and encourage active participation. For example, in our regular posting parties, we invite members to bring real-time challenges to solve together in a safe, judgment-free space. Just as we set our students up for success, we do the same for our members.

Our committee training approach is multifaceted and shaped

New in CONNECT

Jane Enright, Ontario Psi, leads the new CONNECT Writers Community. Jane is the author of “Jane’s Jam” and “Butter Side Up.” She was a keynote speaker at the 2023 International Convention in Kansas City. Join the community and share your own work while receiving feedback as you learn about the craft of writing.

The KAPPAN community provides an opportunity for readers to suggest articles, make comments for improvement and receive assistance with their own articles.

by the feedback of our members. We offer flexible formats, including slide presentations, interactive sessions and printable handouts that can be transformed into desktop instruction cards. Like students in a classroom, members learn in diverse ways and at their own paces. To support this, we’ve built a team of passionate trainers who lead with open hearts and encouraging words.

A key strategy we have employed is highlighting shared goals. We focus on common objectives and demonstrate how collaboration benefits everyone, fostering unity and engagement.

The committee continues to share valuable information through training materials, which remain accessible on the CONNECT network. The most recent “Sharing the Why” updates will also be regularly featured on the community login page.

As educators, we understand the importance of flexibility and adaptability. In that spirit, the CONNECT committee has provided tailored solutions and alternative pathways to meet users where they are, offering personalized support. Whether through group sessions or one-on-one support, the committee consistently leads with a spirit of “Yes.” This responsive approach honours individual member needs and fosters stronger, more collaborative relationships.

Celebrating progress, no matter how small, can have a powerful impact. We are witnessing continued growth in member engagement, increased interest in training and a rise in requests for new communities. We are excited to introduce our new Writer’s Community, led by author and speaker Jane Enright, launching in October 2025.

Our recent International Alzheimer’s partnership highlighted the importance of injury-free walker training and shared key insights into Alzheimer’s timelines and events across borders. The CONNECT Alzheimer’s community now houses the video and handout from this presentation, accessible to any member who joins the community by simply tapping “join.” Members can view, download or share these resources at their meetings. Ultimately, fostering collaboration requires ongoing patience, creativity and adaptability. It’s not about changing people, but about cultivating an environment where everyone feels empowered to engage. The CONNECT committee is committed to building a culture of support. By meeting members where they are and celebrating every step forward, there is a shift from a model of compliance to one of community empowerment.

In Alpha Delta Kappa, growth is not mandated, it is shared.

Change in Donating Guidelines

Donations to the A∆K Disaster Relief Program will no longer be allocated to a specific disaster event, according to a recent decision by the A∆K Foundation Board of Directors. The donations will be pooled and dispensed to address the needs of members affected by various disasters as determined by the presidents of states, nations and provinces. (S/P/N).

Bytes & pieces

The revision was made to the Disaster Relief Guidelines to promote a more efficient use of funds donated for emergencies. The funds will be dispersed when an S/P/N president identifies the needs of sisters affected by such disasters as hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, earthquakes and wildfires.

A∆K Foundation President Sandy Wolfe notified the S/P/N presidents in June of the guidelines. The Foundation Board assures that all needs will be addressed and all requests for funds will be honored, according to Foundation Board Member Judy Ganzert.

To donate, sign onto the International website and select the Foundation tab on the home page.

In the items under Foundation, click on Donations and scroll down to the purple box labeled Disaster Relief. Click on that box to find the directions for donating.

Donations made online are preferred. Donations may also be mailed to the Alpha Delta Kappa Foundation, 1615 West 92nd Street, Kansas City, MO 64114. Indicate the Foundation fund, such as Altruistic, World Understanding, Disaster Relief, to which you are donating.

For assistance, contact Pam Collins at A∆K Headquarters.

ITE Scholar Becomes a US Citizen

MD Beta member Elisabeth ArevaloGuerrero, a 2001-2003 International Teacher Education (ITE) scholar, became a dual citizen of the US and Spain this winter. MD Beta and Epsilon sisters celebrated with her during a recent joint picnic.

Elisabeth, also known as Eli, was sponsored as an ITE scholar by Evelyn Weicker, MD, Alpha, and Ellen Roderick, MD, Beta. Eli received a Master’s degree in 2002 in Linguistics, followed by a PhD in 2009, also in Linguistics, from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). She is an Associate Teaching Professor of Spanish and Intercultural Communications at UMBC.

Eli, who is from Marbella, Spain, met her husband, David Rosen, while she was studying in the United States. Their son, Liam, was born in Marbella in 2014. The family returned to the United States in 2015.

Information provided by Ellen Roderick, Foundation Board Member,

Ellen Roderick (L) and Eli Arevalo-Guerrero show the red, white, and blue cake served at the joint picnic celebrating Eli’s American citizenship. “Congratulations, Miss USA” was written in icing.

Attending the Celebration of Life for Mayme Chinn and Dorothy Vaio were California State Presidents (L to R) Susan Raffo (2010-2012), Mary Ann Englehart (2014-2016), Mollie Acosta (2012-2014), Virginia Riding (2024-2026), Rosena Kruley (2022-2024), Karen Kirby (2018-2020) and Alice Bullard (1996-1998). Dorothy served as California State President from 1960 to 1962. Mayme Chinn was the A∆K International President from 1965 to 1967.

Leading with Heart

By Maria Luisa Lebar, Ontario Provincial President

When I was first asked to take on the role of president-elect a few years ago, I experienced a wave of emotions, most notably, fear and self-doubt. My immediate thought was, “How could I possibly take on such a significant role?” I imagined the weight of responsibility, the expectations and the unknown challenges ahead. With great hesitancy and uncertainty, I accepted the position, not quite knowing what I was stepping into or if I was truly ready.

Now, a year into my biennium as Ontario President, I can say with pride and humility, “I’m still standing.” Even more importantly, I feel like I’m making a difference.

The goals I set early on have kept me grounded and focused. At the top of the list was a commitment to improving communication across our province. In a multi-generational organization like ours, effective communication means truly understanding and addressing the diverse needs of our members. I quickly came to understand that our strength doesn’t just lie in what we do, it lies in who we are together. We are an incredible tapestry of talents, experiences and perspectives. Supporting that richness has been my most important work.

More than anything, I have tried to prioritize the wellbeing of our members. It’s important to me that every member feels seen, heard and valued. That means listening deeply, getting to know members personally and helping them connect to the “whys” of Alpha Delta Kappa, why they joined, why they stay and why their continued involvement matters.

Leadership, I’ve learned, must be rooted in humanity. It cannot be about simply checking boxes, completing forms, or meeting deadlines, although these tasks are part of keeping the organization running smoothly. At its core, leadership is about people. It’s about tending to the human experience of our members, acknowledging their challenges, celebrating their successes and creating an environment where they feel supported and inspired. The needs of our members must always come first.

As I reflect on this past year, my heart is full. I’ve experienced so many joyful moments in this role. Shared laughter at gatherings, the warmth of a welcome from a chapter visit, inspiring conversations and simple moments of connection all reminded me just how special our sisterhood is. These are the moments that stay with me. When challenges have arisen, as they always do, it is the strength of our community that carries me. Collaborating with members, leaning on one another and

remembering that I am never alone has made all the difference. No challenge should be tackled in isolation, and in Alpha Delta Kappa, we never have to. Together, we are always better.

One message I hope to leave with members is this: don’t run away from leadership; lean into it. You don’t have to know everything to take on a role of responsibility. You just need to bring a willingness to learn and a heart open to collaboration. Leadership in Alpha Delta Kappa is not about perfection, it’s about connection. I am deeply grateful to the members across Ontario who have walked alongside me. It is because of their encouragement, their ideas and their support that I have experienced joy in this role. Our members make up a truly inspiring and compassionate community, and I am proud to serve Ontario.

One of the aspects of Alpha Delta Kappa that I treasure most is our intergenerational collaboration. There is something uniquely beautiful about younger members learning from more experienced ones, and vice versa. Our chapters are richer for it. Personally, I’ve had the joy of learning how to knit from my Ontario Sigma sisters. It’s a work in progress, but one that reminds me how much we each have to give and to learn, no matter our age or stage.

Looking back over this past year, I’m filled with gratitude for the trust the members placed in me, for the encouragement I’ve received, and for the opportunity to grow through this experience. It hasn’t always been easy, but it has been deeply rewarding. I’ve learned to lead not by trying to be perfect, but by being present, authentic and open to learning.

As I enter the second half of my biennium, I carry with me a renewed sense of purpose and hope. Together, we will continue to build a vibrant, supportive and inclusive Alpha Delta Kappa community in Ontario, one where every member, from our newest to our most seasoned, knows they belong. I am the Ontario president for one more year. I am still growing . . . I am still learning . . . I am still leading!

Maria is a member of Ontario Sigma and a Pearl sister.

Faces of Austin

The KAPPAN thanks the many talented photographers who shared their convention photos. The faces in their photos tell the A∆K story.

Convention 2025

Sisters Share Cross-Cultural Programs

Acertificate of commendation was awarded by the World Understanding Committee to five A∆K chapters for their submissions to the Making a Better World Initiative. The initiative recognizes “outstanding programs, projects and activities that significantly contribute to cross-cultural learning and relationships and increase awareness of and involvement in global issues.” Information and directions on how to submit chapter programs or projects for consideration for the initiative, and a flip book with descriptions and photos of the projects, are on the International website under the Foundation tab.

Fill the Trunk

Submitted by Paula Barry, CT Gamma

Food insecurity is one of the top five global issues in the world today. It is a critical concern not only on the global stage but right here at home. Beginning in 2021, the sisters of CT Gamma have supported food banks in Hartford, Tolland and Windham Counties through their “Fill the Trunk Initiative.” Each year, they select nine area food banks, one for each of their monthly meetings. A letter accompanies the donations, sharing information about the organization and its altruistic projects. Gamma sisters have received many kind words and heartfelt letters of thanks from the food banks, expressing the difference these contributions make in the lives of those who struggle to make ends meet. Chapter members contribute what they can as often as they can. It is not a huge commitment of time or money for members every month; therefore, it is sustainable. Everyone has a small part, but together, it makes a big impact.

Girls Matter Period

Submitted by Jan Walker, AZ Lambda

“Girls Matter Period” (GMP) is a non-profit organization primarily serving the people of South Africa that empowers girls and women by providing valuable education and washable and/ or reusable feminine hygiene supplies. These Personal Packs enable girls to stay in school and enjoy the dignity they deserve. A Personal Pack includes two waterproof bases, 12 absorbent flannel inserts, two panties, a wet bag, a washcloth, soap and education and/or instructions, all packed in a colorful cinch sack. Volunteers work in teams to assemble these packs. This involves washing, tracing, cutting, sewing, folding, ironing and packing.

Members of the GMP Designated Outreach teams travel to these countries, focusing primarily on education and kit distribution for thousands of girls and women, mostly in secondary schools. Because of the help received from this organization, girls are encouraged to finish school and reach for their dreams. Educated young women become competent leaders in their homes and communities. GMP teaches the importance of waiting to

have children until girls have partners who are committed 100% to them and their offspring. GMP efforts are not limited to any one country. Although they primarily serve the people of South Africa, their products may be distributed worldwide.

Shoeing the World

Submitted by Linda Spellman, VA Beta Epsilon

The VA Beta Epsilon chapter started this project in September 2024 to raise money for the Beta Epsilon Scholarship. We worked with Funds2orgs, a global organization with microenterprise partners, many of which are women-owned, in 26 countries. Established in 2013 by Wayne Esley, Funds2orgs collects gently used shoes, which are sent to micro-entrepreneurs worldwide to sell in local markets to help themselves out of poverty. This program offers people a hand-up rather than a hand-out.

Funds2orgs provided everything we needed, including rubber bands and bags to package the shoes, posters, motivational videos and a coach to answer questions. They even sent trucks to pick up the shoes. If we collect 100 bags of shoes with 25 pairs per bag, we will earn our goal of $1000 for our scholarship. So far, we have collected 85 bags.

This project has expanded beyond our chapter sisters, with all sisters collecting shoes from families, friends, neighbors, church groups, schools, clubs and other organizations. We have enjoyed working together and take tremendous pride in knowing that our efforts will benefit both the businesses receiving the shoes and those who will purchase them at a reasonable price.

AZ Psi Scholarships are Making a Difference

Submitted by Ann Fullerton, AZ Psi

The AZ Psi chapter answers the question “How to make the world a better place?” by combining their passion for altruism and education and sponsoring scholarships. Yearly, Psi plans a fundraiser to fund four different scholarship programs that benefit children, high school seniors, college students and adults.

In 1976, Psi member Marguerite Ratcliffe and her husband began the Sportsman Fund in partnership with Tucson’s “AZ Daily Star” to send underserved children to summer camp.

In the late 1970s, Psi members began offering a scholarship to a female pursuing a career in education. In the 1990s, males were included. The scholarship continues to this day with a second-year scholarship for continued aid and Alpha Delta Kappa ITE support for international college students.

In 2016, Psi members supported scholarships for adults needing a second chance at the Caridad Culinary Training Program. The students train to be chefs.

Continues on next page.

2025-2027 International Executive Board

Past International President Mollie Acosta installed the 2025-2027 International Executive Board at the closing night banquet in Austin. Installed were:

International President Conway Blankenship

International President-Elect ...... Mary Ey

Past International President Ann Marie Brown

International VP Membership ... Kathy Beatty

Four-Year Member Julie Kidd

Four-Year Member ..................... Mary Ann Englehart

Four-Year Member Terry Peyton

Four-Year Member ..................... Su Wade

Four-Year Member Roberta Casabon

Four-Year Member ..................... Ginger Greene

Two-Year Member Leslie Koenck

Executive Director ..................... Christi Smith

Continued from previous page.

Psi chapter makes it a priority to plan successful yearly fundraisers for these projects and will continue to do so.

New Jersey Kappa Chapter Environmental Sustainability Initiative

By Karen Ellingson-Nonestied NJ Kappa

Three years ago, NJ Kappa launched an environmental sustainability initiative to address climate change and encourage responsible waste management. The goal was to promote stewardship through education, action and collaboration with local organizations. Through this initiative, we aimed to:

• Educate the public on plastic pollution, reduce waste through recycling efforts, and foster a culture of sustainability within our chapter and community.

These goals were achieved through educational programs, monthly discussions and recycling initiatives. Our chapter has enhanced previous environmental efforts by hosting public forums, reinforcing responsible recycling practices and integrating climate discussions into meetings. Collaborating with the local library, sustainability groups and other volunteer organizations in the community helped expand our reach.

The chapter co-hosted two “Getting Past Plastic” forums to educate the public; it increased awareness of various climate change issues among members through monthly discussions; and it began to collect and divert hard-to-recycle items like pens, markers, socks and electronics from landfills.

Articles have been edited for space. Information provided by Joyce McAloon, International World Understanding Chair.

Sisters Open Their Hearts and Their Purses

From the moment the Patrick Henry chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution presented the colors at the opening session on Friday to the installation of the 2025-2027 International Executive Board on Sunday, the atmosphere of the International Convention in Austin was one of altruism and sisterhood.

“Bridge to the Future,” the theme of the 2023-2025 biennium, was the official theme of the convention, but it might as well have been “Sisters like us do things like that,” as donations came in and continue to come in. The figures in this article were those available at the time of publication.

Sisters donated $12,135 to CASA (Court-Appointed Special Advocates) of Travis County, TX, the program selected by International President Ann Marie Brown as the convention’s altruistic project. “By supporting CASA, we help ensure that every child in the foster care system has a voice and a chance at a brighter future,” Ann Marie said in her introduction to the project.

John Lawrence, president of A∆KA, presented a check for $2,000 from the men’s association to the A∆K Foundation. The association also raised over $1,800 from a 50-50 raffle, splitting the proceeds with the Foundation.

The A∆K Foundation presented checks for $35,000 to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Alzheimer’s Association. St. Jude has been an International altruistic project since 1981. The Alzheimer’s Association became an International altruistic project in 2013.

Total donations to the A∆K Foundation reached $51,018.25. The total includes funds raised at the Evening of Entertainment, Cvent donations, donations made at the Foundation table and online donations.

Over $22,000 was donated at the Evening of Entertainment to hear country-western favorites “ Jolene,” “Boot Scootin’ Boogie,” “Ring of Fire” and “Mama Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys.” Over 700 attended the Evening in person while 49 did the Texas Two Step virtually.

Total registration for the convention was 829, with five members of the Collegiate Club and 36 members of the Men’s Association in attendance. Virtual attendance was 256. Attending only the Symposium were nine members in person and 10 virtual attendees. Attendance at the Installation banquet was 899.

The Patrick Henry Chapter of the Texas Society, Sons of the American Revolution, was chartered in 1938. The chapter is a member of the National Society, Sons of the American Revolution. Most members of the non-profit organization had ancestors who fought in the American Revolution.

Voting Report

At the special virtual meeting on June 7, delegates to the 2025 International Convention voted on proposed bylaws revisions, proposed bylaws amendments and proposed resolutions. Delegates were members who had registered by May 1 to either attend the convention in person or virtually. The full report can be found on the International website under 2025 Election Central.

Adopted Amendment to Article II.b

Delete the words diversity and inclusion

In favor 490/551 89%

Against 61/551 11%

Adopted Amendment Article VII Section 1

Add a. Election and Installation - Election of International Officers shall require a majority vote of the official delegates registered and voting in person or virtually during the convention.

In favor 334/558 60%

Against 224/558 40%

Adopted Amendment to Article VII Section 2.g.(3)

(3) The executive board may vote to allow committee chairs to make and vote on motions.

In favor 495/564 88%

Against 69/564 12%

Program Pause

“We are all disappointed about the needed pause on our World Understanding Program. A closer look at the guidelines in order to protect our members and their donations will be done and updates will be shared with the members,” said International President Conway Blankenship in response to the announcement to the pause in the program.

A pause is a temporary stop in a process to address a specific issue.

The World Understanding Program was paused during the 2023 - 2025 biennium to review and revise the program’s guidelines and application. Project C.H.E.A.R. from 2021 to 2023 was the last World Understanding project.

Adopted Amendment to Article VII Section 1.b

Replace Diversity, Equity and Inclusion with Access, Belonging and Community.

In favor 432/559 77%

Against 127/559 23 %

Adopted Amendment XX Section 1

Deletion of the words “according to the Rules Governing an International Convention”

In favor 437/555 79%

Against 118/555 21%

Adopted Resolution #1 Submitted by MI Phi

Resolved, That the International Executive Board conduct a feasibility study of a proposed amendment to the International Bylaws that would allow a member’s Limited status to be changed to Active or Omega, in accordance with the newly amended Bylaws.

In favor 535/540 99%

Against 5/540 1%

Adopted Resolution #2 Submitted by ON Sigma Resolved, That it is recommended that the International Executive Board conduct a feasibility study of moving Ontario Alpha Delta Kappa to the Northeast Region.

In favor 530/539 98%

Against 9/53 17%

Results of voting for International offices

A second round of voting, from June 24 to 26, was necessary for the election of International officers.

Mary Ey, OH Lambda, was elected International PresidentElect with 64% of the 687 votes cast.

Ginger Greene, WV Alpha Tau, was elected a Four-Year International Executive Board Member with 54% of the 666 votes cast. Leslie Koenck, LA Alpha Sigma, was elected a TwoYear International Executive Board Member with 57% of the 651 votes cast. Kathy Beatty, VA Gamma Epsilon, was elected to a second term as International Vice President Membership.

Results of voting for International Altruistic Projects

The Alzheimer’s Association and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital received 501 votes, or 71% of the 701 votes cast.

Updates, Changes and Moving Forward in the WU Program

By Joyce McAloon, World Understanding Chair

At the International Convention in Austin, World Understanding Chair Joyce McAloon explained the reasons for pausing the World Understanding Program this biennium. Below is the speech she made to the delegates.

Over the past few months, it seems that things around the world have changed. Due to those changes, we (the World Understanding Committee) felt that we needed to give you an update regarding the World Understanding Program.

The purpose of this committee (the World Understanding Committee) was to review and adjudicate applications that were sent to us. We did that.

Next, we sent applications to the International Executive Board for their review. We did that.

Then, three projects were selected and put forth for our total membership to vote on during June 14-June 19, 2025. That was done.

Once the voting was completed, the results of the vote were sent to International President Ann Marie Brown.

After that, International President Ann Marie Brown received some important information regarding the status of the three applications projects pertaining to the State Department Travel Advisory updates and contacted the World Understanding chair to explain what her next steps would be regarding this information.

How do the travel advisory updates affect the World Understanding Program?

*It provides concerns of safety to our members regarding travel to the areas.

*It affects the fundraising and the distribution of money to the project’s sources.

*How would the project be impacted? Would it be affected by the government like some of our past projects?

Next International President Ann Marie Brown called a special meeting that was held with the International Executive Board on July 2, 2025.

Through discussions held during that IEB meeting regarding the status of all three projects being affected by these State Department travel restraints, a decision was made in the best interest of our program.

It was decided that all three projects were no longer eligible to be chosen as a World Understanding project for this biennium. It was realized after the vote was taken in June that the U.S. Travel Advisory had initiated travel bans affecting all three of our projects. Therefore, all three projects were no longer eligible.

Each of the project’s applicants was personally called and

informed about what decisions were made regarding their status and the next steps.

Since there is not a process in place for dealing with this situation, IEB decided that a pause in the World Understanding Program for this coming biennium would be appropriate and responsible.

This pause would give the World Understanding Committee an opportunity to review, refine, make necessary changes, create new ideas and thoughts on how to prevent these types of problems for the future, so that our program could continue in the 20272029 biennium.

This past spring, while reviewing and updating the forms that would be used for future use, the World Understanding Committee added a new criterion regarding the State Department Travel Advisory website so that applicants, as well as the committee, could check and refer to this site to help proceed with our applications.

It is hoped that by ensuring that a country where a World Understanding project would take place is not listed on the State Department’s levels of concern, the project could be assured success.

This biennium’s World Understanding Committee will meet and review all necessary paperwork and share our findings with the International Executive Board. In addition, the committee will provide information regarding the updates to:

*Headquarters for placement in the International News

*KAPPAN editor to include our updates in the magazine

*Regional newsletters

Information will be sent to the Regional Presidents so that this information can be placed in their regional newsletters. By providing this information in various ways, our sisters will be well informed.

Again, we encourage all chapters and S/P/N’s to submit project applications in 2026. As updates occur, information will be sent out by our World Understanding Regional Chairs as well as being provided on our International website under the World Understanding tab.

The World Understanding Committee will continue our work to provide opportunities for our sisters to promote world understanding and make a difference in the world around us.

The U.S. Department of State evaluates conditions in a country or areas of a country and issues travel alerts based on the threats of terrorism and unrest. This includes economic instability, crime and other factors that may endanger the safety and security of travelers.

A Look at Some of the Convention Educational Symposium Sessions

The recent International Convention brought together an array of voices, ideas and originality, offering attendees rich programs that sparked dialogue and inspired action. From interactive workshops to inventive presentations, the Educational Symposium served as a hub for thoughtful leadership, empowerment, community engagement and strengthening the bonds of sisterhood. Here is a sampling of the sessions from the symposium, highlighting key themes, memorable moments and lasting takeaways that resonate in Alpha Delta Kappa.

The recorded Symposium sessions will be available on the Attendee Hub for a year after the close of the International Convention. The “join now” button will change to “watch recording.”

Charlene Lauria shattered the myth that Legos are just for kids with her presentation, “Exploring World Understanding, One Brick at a Time.” Using Lego models, Charlene showed how the playful tools can unlock big ideas, like cultural awareness, global understanding and hands-on learning for all ages. Attendees were amazed to learn that Lego building offers real neurological and physical benefits, including improved fine motor skills and therapeutic value for conditions like neuropathy. “The takeaway,” she said, “is that learning doesn’t have to be serious to be meaningful, and Legos can be a powerful tool for connection, education and even healing.”

In her session “Don’t Get Scammed”, Liz Lilly, FL Gamma Beta, shed light on four types of scams, explaining what they are, how they work and how to stay safe. She emphasized the dangers of phishing and the important role strong passwords play in protecting personal information. Liz believes it’s a topic we need to share to help sisters stay one step ahead of scammers. Participants shared stories of their own close calls with informationtheft schemes.

Where does a songwriter begin? Attendees found out at TN Alpha Lola Hatcher’s workshop “Sing a Song of Alpha Delta Kappa.” Lola shared her personal process for creating lyrics, and members were encouraged to write lyrics of their own to enhance fraternity education and strengthen sisterhood. When Lola heard people laugh and saw them enjoying singing unique lyrics, she knew she had helped them build a lifelong skill through the magic of music.

OH Beta Epsilon’s Belinda Boyce showcased engaging projects, clear rubrics and examples of students’ completed work – all designed to spark a love of reading and deepen comprehension.

In her program, “Novel Ideas”, Belinda’s projects promoted reading and comprehension. Belinda’s mission was simple yet powerful: to help her students fall in love with reading by making literature come alive through meaningful, hands-on learning.

Karen Victor, HI Pi, in “Superpower? Storytelling!” said, “When the going gets tough, the tough tell stories. Storytelling is powerful; it’s what makes us human.” In her session, participants looked at the concept of superheroes and the diverse origins of their powers. Imagining all educators to be superheroes, participants then reviewed Joseph Campbell’s “Hero’s Journey” to note how their own lives echo the hero’s journey. Karen believes that nothing tears down walls and builds bridges faster than sharing stories and that this program is a step toward healing in a world that desperately needs to listen.

Sally Miller, VA Lambda, has 25 years experience teaching Shakespeare and 15 years running school festivals. In “Making Shakespeare Fun for Middle and High School Students,” she offered ways to “brush up on one’s Shakespeare.” Participants discovered how to organize a school-wide Shakespeare Festival with flexible ideas for classroom or department-wide activities. From suggested time-tested scenes, they selected their favorites, reimagined the settings and practiced judicious editing to make scenes more accessible to students. Using the Bard’s own words and phrases, sisters had fun creating and playfully hurling creative Shakespearean insults. And armed with plenty of handouts, sisters left ready to launch their own Shakespearean celebrations.

Is getting officers a chronic issue in your chapter? Nearly 75 sisters joined Betty Jo Evers, AZ Iota, who knows how to “Empower Sisters to Lead.” Betty Jo emphasized empowerment as a process fostered by the culture within one’s chapter. Her learning session reflected both “why and how” a chapter might adjust its culture, thus reaping the reward of a full slate of officers. Four key strategies were shared: Build a Culture of Leadership, Build a Culture of Engagement, Build a Culture of Connection and Build a Culture of the Joy in Leadership.

“A to T: Alaska to Texas - Advocates for Early Learning” was presented by Lisa Colvin, TX Gamma Iota and Anna Fox, TX Beta Pi. The session highlighted a collaborative literacy project connecting Texas teacher candidates (TCs) with a first-grade classroom in Alaska. Designed to engage both groups in meaningful literacy activities, the project provided writing opportunities, fostered creativity and promoted authentic learning across distances. Participants in the project explored ways to implement

projects to benefit both rural students and TCs. They examined place-based education and created a pathway to advocate for their students.

In her session, Minetta Smith, TX Beta, stressed “The Importance of Family Stories...Build a Bridge Between Generations.” She led a session on the power of family stories to connect people across time and generations. Participants reflected on cherished memories, recalling long-forgotten moments and treasured sayings from loved ones.

Bev Card, MD Nu, and Shawnta Leftwich, her former student and current chapter president, presented “Energize Your Chapter.” Their session focused on three key goals: (1) nurturing members while streamlining documents and procedures, (2) engaging in meaningful conversations about the future, and (3) planning together with flexibility and fun. Bev and Shawnta shared ideas that worked in their chapter and were humbled to play to a capacity crowd.

In her moving and informative session, “HOPE: Overcoming Autism Through a Remarkable and Inspiring Journey,” Sue

Saccomando, VA Tau, explored Autism and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), including its history, causes, symptoms, treatments and support strategies. Blending professional insight with personal experience, she shared a journey marked by perseverance, growth and meaningful success.

Julie Mitchell, TN Alpha Theta, challenged educators to explore the complex history of the Holocaust through varied lenses, encouraging a rich and empathetic approach to teaching the subject. Participants engaged with a wide array of primary sources and hands-on activities—tools designed not only for classroom instruction and broader community engagement. Julie incorporated insights and experiences from her recent journey to Poland, which added emotional depth and historical authenticity.

The Educational Symposium offered a wealth and variety of enrichment sessions, each one filled with meaningful learning opportunities. Participants left inspired, informed and enriched by their involvement.

Information provided by Susan Pelchat, KAPPAN correspondent.

Amendment Renames Committee

Access, Belonging and Community (ABC) is the new name of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee, following the passage of an amendment to the Alpha Delta Kappa Bylaws to rename the committee. The change was approved by 77% of the delegates voting at the 2025 International Convention.

Explaining the reason for the name change, Pat Valle, ABC committee chair, said, “Alpha Delta Kappa is committed to fostering a sense of belonging.”

This name change aligns with state and federal executive orders and complies with the recommendations of A∆K’s legal counsel. With this change, A∆K reduces the risk of losing its 501(c) (3) status. The name change also protects the A∆K Foundation and the money members donate or bequeath to A∆K. It affirms the organization’s compliance with mandates and commitment to maintaining an environment free from discrimination.

The Access, Belonging and Community Committee will continue to offer professional and personal development programs through book reflections, learning sessions at conventions and conferences and resources reviewed by the ABC committee and posted on CONNECT.

“The goals of the committee will continue to emphasize fostering a sense of belonging, nurturing connections and supporting a culture of open-mindedness and compassion in A∆K. These goals are grounded in a commitment to practices that respect and value each member for her unique qualities,” Valle said.

Article information provided by Pat Valle, WA Alpha Delta, Access, Belonging and Community Committee chair, and Su Wade, International Executive Board Liaison to Access, Belonging and Community Committee 2023-2025.

Educators Are Heroes, Grants Bring in Members

By Betty Sherrod, KAPPAN Correspondent

The International Educators are Heroes grant was first offered in 2024, and sisters from chapters in states, nations and provinces applied for $75 to be used to plan and host a social event that was not synced with a chapter meeting. The emphasis was to be on the who, what, when, where, why and how of the prospective member. Asking reflective questions and listening was the key. The question became, what characteristics of A∆K fit with what this educator is looking for in membership in a volunteer organization? The potential member might see herself as a piece of a puzzle, finding the perfect match when using her talents. Oprah Winfrey, talk show host, producer and author, said, “Everybody just wants to be heard. Validate them.” Shifting the focus from sharing the nuts and bolts of A∆K at a meeting to creating a social event where sisters got to know others more personally was the goal of the Educators Are Heroes grant.

to chapter sisters.” Kansas Rho member Marla Hayden said, “The training allowed you to pause and actually think about outcomes you would want from the event. Better planning occurred prior to the event, execution was better and planned follow-up will keep the momentum going.”

Phyllis Robinette, CO Eta and headquarters membership and marketing specialist, and Kathy Beatty, VA Gamma Epsilon and International Vice President for Membership, wanted to create an initiative that focused on building connections with educators during summer social activities and on conducting initiations in the early fall.

Many chapters engage in more social pursuits during the summer, and sisters may see one another more often than during the school year. Additionally, being initiated in the fall and paying dues in September initially gives the sister 16 months of membership. The objective was “To utilize 2024-2025 International Membership Committee funds to build and implement a transformational membership campaign to build chapter capacity and recruitment success.” Since 2024, a series of three training sessions have been held with 308 chapters participating.

Kathy provided training via ZOOM, and sisters learned how to ask reflective questions and listen to the prospective member. Suzanne Porcelli, FL Upsilon, said, “The grant training was very well organized and comprehensive. This made it easy to redeliver

The chapter events varied from sip and paint parties to happy hours; from fused glass workshops to dinners and from spa days to ice cream parties. Amanda Ross, AK Zeta, shared the work that members accomplished in preparation for a tea party, complete with various tea sandwiches. Stacy Redding, TX Beta Omicron, reported that their Super Educator Fiesta was held at a Mexican restaurant. Using the grant money, appetizers and nonalcoholic drinks were purchased. More than ten educators were invited. Those invitees who attended expressed an interest in joining.

Claudia Moose, NC Sigma IPP and NC District II Vice President, shared, “Our chapter has seen a shift in membership for several years now. Chapter sisters have invited excellent educators to meetings, but with no real changes to our membership. Brenda Costner, chapter membership chair, secured an Educators Are Heroes grant to host an event showcasing how special our chapter is. And we did showcase NC Sigma. We set up an evening filled with food, lively conversation and Bunco. This game allowed players to move from table to table, giving us a chance to greet each guest in a relaxed environment. Nine guests attended, and everyone seemed to have a wonderful time. Each invitee was presented with a goodie bag, a mini Bundt cake, and a promise from the chapter sisters to get together over the summer to talk more about our altruistic organization.”

“It has been awesome to see the creativity that sisters and chapters had in planning their events,” commented Kathy, sharing the results from the June 2024 grant recipients. “Since June 1, 2024, 176 new members have been initiated. Thirty-eight percent of them joined chapters that had received the grant. Thirty-four percent of the total reinstated members were in grant-recipient chapters.”

NC Sigma members and guests enjoy a game of Bunco at the chapter’s Educators Are Heroes event. Pictured (L to R at the front table): Kristen Lance, guest Brenda Costner, Laura Parker, Marta Jones, Co-Presidents Sherry Crowder and Cindy Drake

A Beginner’s Guide to Starting a Collegiate Club

By Debbie Ingersoll, International Collegiate Club Chair

Ball State University 2016, Colorado State University 2019, Rowan University 2022, University of Kentucky 2024. You’ve been hearing about the nine Alpha Delta Kappa collegiate clubs, and you’ve thought, “I’d like to start a club, but where do I begin?” Welcome to Collegiate Clubs 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Starting a Club.

As members of Alpha Delta Kappa, we are aware of our vision, mission and purposes: educational excellence, altruism and world understanding. Our collegiate clubs have similar purposes. An A∆K collegiate club (A∆KCC) aims “to support future educators while promoting educational excellence, professionalism, altruism and world understanding.” A club also promotes philanthropic and professional development opportunities, builds leadership skills and creates a network of future and current educators worldwide.”

Establishing an A∆KCC benefits both college students and chapters. It is an excellent opportunity for chapters to support future educators and expand chapter membership by inviting college professors and collegiate club graduates into chapter membership. Current collegiate club sponsors were asked what they felt was the best part of being a sponsor. Here are a few of their responses:

Debbie Garrison, President, FL Beta Delta Chapter, Sponsor – University of Central Florida CC says, “The best part of being an A∆KCC sponsor is meeting and interacting with soon-to-be teachers. They are the future, and they are so enthusiastic.”

Suzanne Maly, AZ Zeta Chapter, Sponsor – University of Arizona CC says, “The best part of sponsoring a club is bringing Alpha Delta Kappa to a university campus and uniting our Arizona chapters to work together for these future educators who will one day have the profession that we all enjoyed. It’s about time we did this.”

The benefits for collegiate club members include receiving support and mentoring from experienced teachers, developing leadership skills, participating in altruistic projects in both the local community and on college campuses and being able to apply for Future Educator Scholarships. For more information about A∆K collegiate clubs, visit www.alphadeltakappa.org/About/ Alpha Delta Kappa Collegiate Club.

Establishing a club takes patience and commitment. The process can take from six months to a year or more. So, how do you begin this process? Start at a chapter meeting. One or two chapters need to approve the formation of a CC. Your geographical location is most important. Is your chapter in or near a college campus with an education department? If so, proceed. Once you have presented the idea to your chapter, detailing the responsibilities and

benefits, and they have voted affirmatively to support a collegiate club with you as a sponsor, the first step has been taken. Does your chapter have a college professor as a member, or does a member know one? Do any members have a friend on campus? Those connections can be helpful. So what’s next?

Go to the A∆K website, www.alphadeltakappa.org, and log in with your credentials. Go to the Members Only/Resource Library/ Guiding Documents-A∆KCC, and click on the link. The first file, Establishing A∆KCC, is your springboard, so click here. Scroll down to the Checklist for Establishing A∆KCC. It is most helpful to print this document. Read it over several times, remembering that every step may not apply to your situation. As a co-sponsor of Rowan University A∆KCC, I kept this checklist handy, dating and checking off as I completed each step. The other files and documents found there will also be helpful. As stated, it is a process of patience as it takes time and commitment, but the benefits far outweigh any difficulties. Your International Collegiate Club Board members are there to guide and support you and answer any questions.

Debbie is a member of NJ Chi. Collegiate Club Board member Chloe Austin, IN Tau, contributed to this article.

AZ Collegiate Club Graduates

Seventeen

Congratulations to the 17 A∆KCC graduates from the Department of Education at the University of Arizona and Pima Community College in Tucson.

Of this list of graduates, two students, Frances DeBaca and Anna Mare Ofelia Perez, attended the International Convention in Austin, TX.

Congratulations to all these future teachers from AZ Zeta, the club’s sponsoring chapter. The graduates thank all of the sisters in AZ chapters Zeta, Beta, Psi and Omicron for helping them make it through another successful year with their club.

Club members returning to their studies in the fall are: Ella Joy Henning, president; Sophia Culbertson, vice president; Carly Cantos, secretary-treasurer; Anne Tuhy and Faith Wolfley, membership; Frances De Baca, historian and Becca Heinze, a four-year doctoral student in Special Education.

Information from AZ Zeta Treasurer and Immediate Past President Suzanne Maly.

Megan Floyd, outgoing club president, will be teaching near Dallas, TX. She is wearing a stole designed by Anna Marie Perez for A∆KCC graduates.

Sister Tales

A SISTER TALE

The Day I Didn’t Take Off

By D’Hann Ch’ng, Ontario Epsilon, World Understanding Chair

As report cards neared and spring fever filled the halls, the school year teetered on chaos — EQAO testing, rehearsals, assemblies, field trips, track and field and final assessments all blurred together. Teaching felt like an extreme sport. Burnout was creeping in, but we kept marching on because, for many students, even chaotic school days are their only structure and sense of safety.

Then one day, a student—the one who is never absent— called in sick. I silently celebrated. The class felt lighter, and with a double prep ahead, the day should have been manageable. But unexpectedly, I felt my throat tighten, my eyes sting and my chest ache. I fought back tears, whispering, “Just push through. Not in front of the kids. Not now.” I did — until the principal and another teacher came in, alerted by a student who said, “My teacher is upset. I think we need help.” Cue the breakdown.

Pulled into the hallway, I couldn’t explain what had happened. It was everything… and nothing. I hadn’t planned to fall apart — my “inner Chinese” had even scheduled for a post-report card breakdown. But my body hadn’t gotten the memo.

Offered a day off, I resisted. It felt indulgent —foreign. Even though the advice came from colleagues who shared my culture and faith, taking a day off still felt dramatic. Writing a plan for the supply teacher felt more stressful than pushing through. So I stayed. We had a class meeting — no emotion talk — just brainstorming how to make the rest of the year better.

Friday passed. So did Saturday. By Sunday evening, I finally decided to take Monday off. Even then, I almost broke out in hives. I texted the principal, who replied, “Yes, take the day off! The kids need you to be happy and healthy!” But it was not that simple to do at all; the guilt was real. Should I rest or catch up on work? If I worked, was I ruining the point? If I rested, was I falling behind?

Ironically, that same week, our local A∆K chapter hosted a talk on mental wellness. I knew the strategies, but using them? That was another story. I know all the strategies. But apply them? HA! My report comments on Mental Wellness would state: With support, D’Hann struggles to apply learning.

Erin McKee of ON Upsilon Waterloo said something that landed deeply: “You have to be strong when that student is in the class. Your brain is always on alert. So, when they’re absent, your mind is suddenly free — and that’s when it all hits. You notice things you usually don’t…and the simplest of things can set you off. It’s often the easy days that break us.”

When I returned, three student groups pulled me aside. A student had been suspended in my absence. The principal told me, “You’re the glue. When you were gone, things fell apart.” Even the student who’d been away during my breakdown saw the supply teacher and said, “I’m not gonna last the day.”

And there it was: the reality that my need for rest is valid, but their need for consistency is just as real.

In many homes, tension fills the air, or silence hangs heavy. School, even in its frenzy, is the calm. A routine. A release. Summer isn’t a vacation for them — it’s a void. And my absence, even for one day, can feel like abandonment.

This experience raised big questions: How far do our responsibilities go, beyond curriculum, beyond report cards? Can we provide more than structure — maybe even solace? Could school be a place of both escape and learning?

We’re not therapists. Not saviours. But we are witnesses to joy, trauma, growth and grief. That gives us a quiet power: to create safe, sacred spaces — and to recognize that our own wellness is part of what sustains that. So I should definitely be healthy and happy…so I can show up for them and teach them how to read and do multiplication!

Taking rest, especially when it feels unnatural, is an act of resistance. For me, it’s hard when I’ve been raised to hustle, to be the strong one, that my worth is tied to holding everything together. But I’m learning that pausing doesn’t necessarily mean being indulgent— it makes me more human.

To foster humanity, then, is not just to push through. It’s to pause — even when it feels foreign. And maybe, just maybe, that’s the kind of understanding that changes the world — one exhausted teacher, one honest conversation, one well-timed breakdown at a time.

A SISTER TALE

Hawai’i Sister Speaks at Anniversary Celebration

By Jade Pham Wall, HI Kappa

Nationwide, in April, Vietnamese communities and their supporters commemorated the 50th anniversary of the fall of Saigon and the subsequent Vietnamese refugee crisis. Remember “the Boat People,” a term primarily associated with Vietnamese refugees who fled their country by sea after the end of the Vietnam War in 1975.

Hawai’i’s celebration in the Capitol Rotunda in Honolulu, called “Celebrating 50 Years of Freedom for Vietnam Refugees,” recognized the resilience and contributions of the VietnameseAmerican community as well as the United States for its support.

HI Kappa member Jade Pham Wall, herself a boat person, spoke at the event. Here is her message.

“Aloha distinguished guests, fellow Vietnamese-Americans, and friends. Fifty years ago, a wave of hope and desperation washed upon these shores. I, Jade Pham Wall, born Pham Thi Bich Diem, stand before you today as a testament to that journey. My story begins with my parents, brave “boat people” who fled Vietnam in the aftermath of the war, escaping political persecution, economic hardship, and the threat of re-education camps. The war took a devastating toll on our family, as it did for countless others. We lost my grandparents and other loved ones, leaving wounds that time has softened but never fully healed.

Our family’s journey is a tapestry woven across continents. My sister was born in a Hong Kong refugee camp, a symbol of resilience in trying times. I came into this world in Vietnam, carrying with me the echoes of a homeland left behind. And my brother, the youngest, was born here in the United States, embodying the new roots we’ve planted. Three children, three different countries, but one family united by a singular dream.

At just two years old, I arrived in Hawai’i, cradled in my parents’ arms, their hearts heavy with memories yet encouraged by dreams of a brighter future. We came to make a new world for ourselves, driven by what many immigrants share: the hope for a safer life, free from persecution; a path out of poverty; and the promise of a better world for their children.

Our story is one of resilience and determination. My parents, like countless others, faced the daunting task of rebuilding their lives from seemingly nothing. They worked tirelessly, often juggling multiple jobs, to provide for our family. Their struggle became our foundation, their sacrifice, our inspiration.

Since 1975, over 15,000 Vietnamese immigrants have made Hawai’i their home. We arrived with diverse abilities and talents, but united in our pursuit of the American Dream. This dream, we discovered, was not a gift, but an opportunity – one that demanded hard work, perseverance, and an unwavering belief in ourselves.

The impact of our community has been profound and multifaceted. From the aromatic pho restaurants that have become local favorites to the meticulous care in nail salons, from the reliable taxi services to the vital contributions in medicine, law, finance and education – we have woven ourselves into the fabric of this beautiful state.

For me, the pathway to success was paved by public education. It was in these classrooms that I found my voice, my passion and my purpose. The opportunities afforded to me through education have been the cornerstone of my achievements. Today, as a teacher and vice principal, I strive to pay forward the gift of knowledge and empowerment that was so generously given to me.

Recently, I was honored with the Milken Educator Award, a national recognition that speaks not just to my efforts, but to the collective success of our community. As I pursue my PhD in Education, I am reminded daily of the doors that have been opened for us and the responsibility we bear to keep those doors open for future generations.

The American Dream is not just about personal success; it’s about lifting others as we rise. It’s about contributing to the community that has given us so much. As Vietnamese-Americans, we understand this deeply. Our journey from refugees to integral members of society is a testament to the power of opportunity, hard work and the welcoming spirit of this great nation.

As we commemorate 50 years since the first wave of Vietnamese refugees arrived, let us celebrate our achievements, honor our struggles, and recommit ourselves to the ideals that have guided us. Let us continue to dream, to strive, and to give back, ensuring that the legacy we leave is one of compassion, contribution, and hope.

Thank you and Cảm ơn.”

Information in this article provided by Sandi Tom, Co-president of Hawaii Kappa.

AMAZING MEMBERs!

A Sister with a Story and a Ukulele

By Gwen Steele, KAPPAN Correspondent

Once upon a time…How often have we uttered this phrase, sharing a story with our kids, with our young students, with even our sophomore English or social studies class, right? Well, I have a story to share. So, once upon a time…

…a young teacher attended a Montessori conference where a storyteller was a featured speaker. After listening to the tale, she left the conference hooked on storytelling. Back in her classroom, she told her young charges a story. A couple of little girls were especially enthralled; they expanded their listening experience by going to the computer and typing up the shared stories. It was there and then that the idea of incorporating storytelling with technology began in Sara Armstrong’s own classroom. As technology elements were taught and stories were told before and after sessions, the power of the stories grew and carried over as a coupled concept into the professional development programs on the use of technology in the classroom and social-emotional learning, led by Sara.

Gollywhoppers Showcase 3: https://www.anne-norm.com/glcfest-3.

Over the past 19-plus years, Sara has been very active in CA Alpha Alpha, holding multiple chapter leadership positions, including chapter president. She has served on the symposium for the Southwest Conference and on the 2025 International Convention Symposium Committee, organizing the schedule of presentations and speakers, and has been a presenter at several conferences. She is the board chair of both SAC (Storytelling Association of California) and ASST (Artists Standing Strong Together), holds a doctorate from UC Berkeley in education, and is active in the AAUW (American Association of University Women).

Today Sara shares stories with groups online, at storytelling festivals, at conferences and other events. She is very active in festival workshops, focusing on “dilemma stories” where alternative endings to stories are implemented as exercises in encouraging empathy for the characters. Her favorite tale, “The Princess Test,” based on the classic “The Princess and the Pea,” reflects her love for fairy tales and their variations.

A consummate practitioner of the craft, Sara says she’s not a professional storyteller. In July, the National Storytelling Network presented her with one of the organization’s ORACLE awards for her work. She is the 2025 recipient of the organization’s Distinguished National Service Award. The award was presented at Kennesaw State University in Kennesaw, GA. This honor is bestowed upon those whose time and energy are exemplary on a national level to forward the work of the National Storytelling Network. You can listen to Sara tell a good one online via the 2025 Good Liars Club Festival, Knee-Slapping’

A veteran Montessori teacher, Sara has authored books addressing professional development in K-12 and the use of technology in education. Her book “Pathways to Well-Being: Helping Educators (and Others) Find Balance in a Connected World,” co-authored with Susan BrooksYoung, focuses on gratitude, positivity, focus, empathy and kindness.

But wait. There is one more Amazing Member component to Sara Armstrong’s story—a ukulele. Yes, a ukulele. An enthusiast of Hawaii, its food, its culture and the Aloha spirit, Sara is also a ukulele player, a player of Hawaii’s famed instrument. Ten years ago, her husband, Robert, met Michael DaSilda, a world-class luthier and teacher of the ukulele, when a repair of Robert’s ukulele was needed. In short, lessons were offered, lessons were taken, and today Sara plays with a 6-7-member group every Thursday. All genres are in their repertoire, including Handel’s “Water Music.”

Sara Armstrong is indeed an amazing member. Sister. Educator. Storyteller. Author. Ukulelist. The message to us in Sara’s own words? “It’s by telling each other our stories and listening deeply to those stories that we can bring peace to our world. Tell your story.” We will, Sara, we will.

AMAZING MEMBERs!

Alaska Alpha Amazing Members Alike But Very Different

Shala Dobson and Millie Spezialy have a lot in common. For starters, they are both Sapphire Sisters in Alaska’s Alpha chapter. Both are retired from teaching in the Anchorage School District, and both are very involved in their community. Then there are their differences.

Millie, at 88 years of age, recently competed in the 2025 Gold Nugget Women’s Triathlon in Anchorage, Alaska. The Gold Nugget, the country’s largest all-women triathlon, starts with a 400-meter swim followed by a 12.1-mile bike ride and ends with a 3.25-mile run. Mille finished her thirty-second triathlon in two hours and sixteen minutes.

She has been running since she turned fifty and has won medals in local, national and international runs in her age group. Millie has climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro, hiked in the Himalayas and on the Inca Trail. She ran the second-oldest footrace in America, the California Dipsea in 2009.

When she isn’t running, she’s writing. “Mount Marathon: Alaska’s Great Footrace” is her book about the colorful history of the race held on Independence Day since 1909 in Seward, AK. Millie has competed in it 15 times. She is also the author and illustrator of several children’s books, including “Binky’s Trophy” and “Gold Rush Poodle”.

Millie can sometimes be found in the classroom helping young writers craft their own stories or at the Anchorage Museum, acting as a docent and sharing her love and knowledge of Alaska with visitors from around the world.

lakeside studio in Meadow Lakes, Shala was born in the territory of Alaska, works in many mediums, including drawing, painting, printmaking and sculpture.

Shala taught art in the Anchorage School District for 23 years and twice was voted Alaska Art Teacher of the Year. She is a Teaching Artist in the Artists in the Schools Program through the Alaska State Council on the Arts, and she travels all over Alaska in the artist’s residency program. Shala developed art curriculum programs for such schools as Kaleidoscope School of Arts and Science in Kenai and she has given Teacher Art In-Service in Anchorage, Mat-Su Borough, and in the schools where she conducts Arts in the Schools residencies. She is president of Entheos Art LLC, a small business she created with her husband.

Visitors to the museum will see the artwork of Shala Dobson on its walls. She is a well-known artist and her works are in the collection of the Anchorage Museum Without Walls Percent for Public Art Program, the Fairbanks Museum of the North, the Alaska State Art Bank and in many private collections. In her

At the Northwest-Southwest conference in Alaska, Shala made a presentation on the Alaska Highway Project. This year, Shala and her husband, Jim Dault, will work on the memorial to the Black soldiers who worked on the Alaska-Canada (ALCAN) Highway.

With all her activities, Shala has found time to volunteer for over ten years at the Birchtree Charter School, where her granddaughter is a student. This year, Shala coordinated the school’s first all-school art show. Students’ works in clay, textiles, crayon, watercolor and pencil were on display.

On the last day of the school year, when students celebrated Field Day, Shala and her granddaughter set up an art project where every student created a butterfly and attached it to a canvas. The project represented that at Birchtree, students begin as caterpillars and turn into butterflies by eighth-grade graduation.

Information in the article submitted by Helen Foster, AK Alpha 2024-2026 Acting President and 2024 Northwest Region President.

(L to R) Millie Spezialy with Ellen Hamel and Ellen’s daughter Maggie. Ellen and Maggie did the triathlon this year after Maggie learned to swim and bike, proving what Millie says. The triathlon “empowers women to try new things.”

Shala Dobson showcases some of the student artwork on display at the Birchtree Charter School’s first all-school art show, which she organized.

The KAPPAN Congratulates

Gulf Region Sister Receives EIE Award

Dawn Hudson, a member of GA Beta Epsilon, is the recipient of the International 2025 Excellence in Education (EIE) award. International President Ann Marie Brown and EIE Committee Chair Paula O’Neill presented her with a certificate of recognition and a check for $5,000 at the International Convention in Austin, TX.

The award, first presented at the 2005 International Convention, recognizes members who are active educators for their outstanding contributions to the field of education.

Dawn, a retired science teacher, is the current owner of Dawn Hudson, LLC Education Consulting Company that provides professional learning for administrators, teachers and students. She is the Cobb/Paulding Regional Science Fair Director for Georgia and just signed a contract with the Georgia Aquarium to assist its education team in making it the first museum in the United States to have full accreditation to teach students, as well as providing accredited professional learning for teachers.

Involved in education for over 30 years, she holds a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Kennesaw State University and a master’s degree in Secondary Education/Biology from Emory University. Dawn is the author of “Top Shelf Human Anatomy and Physiology” and “Top Shelf Differentiated Instruction for Science.”

In her EIE Award application, she expresses her belief that the “door to reaching a student never closes. Every learner deserves an engaging, interactive classroom where they are empowered to take ownership of their learning to reach their full potential.” She is a strong advocate for inclusive learning.

A Pearl Sister, she served as president of Beta Epsilon from 2022 to 2024 and has held various positions at the state and International levels. She always makes time to volunteer in the community with her Beta Epsilon sisters. She has washed eyeglasses in the GA Lions’ Club Lighthouse for the Blind and packed backpacks with school supplies for the Hollydale Backpack Ministry.

Dawn describes herself as having a strong commitment to personal development. She calls it her passion. “As a teacher, I want to share my knowledge, but I realized that as I shared this knowledge with other teachers and they reciprocated, I grew even more professionally. It is important to model lifelong learning for my students, too, so they will be inspired to become lifelong learners themselves.”

Starting an EIE regional award winners community on CONNECT is something she would like to pursue. “I know I am not alone in my thinking that as regional and International awardees, we have a passion for teaching and learning and for partnering with sisters to share ideas, dreams, inspirations and innovations.”

Dawn thanks the A∆K Foundation for making the EIE award a possibility, the EIE committees for reading all the complicated applications and the Gulf Region, Georgia, Marietta District and Beta Epsilon chapter for their nomination and support throughout the EIE application process. “I look forward to the opportunity to connect with even more members and to continue our shared commitment to excellence in education. I was wowed by all the EIE regional winners I met at the International Convention,” Dawn said.

Regional Scholarship Enriches Recipient

Janet Robb, a member of MN Alpha Alpha, received a mini-scholarship from the North Central Region to participate in the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum (Arb) Flora & Fauna Illustrata (F&FI) Project at the University of Minnesota Andersen Horticultural Library (AHL).

“The Project looks for artists to create scientifically accurate fine art for the F&FI collection,” Janet explained. The scholarship helped her purchase art materials and supplies and to travel to AHL.

The Dusky Challenger Iris caught Janet’s eye, and she illustrated it in a scientific and artistic work of art. The art was reviewed in a juried process and selected for the archive collection. Janet said, “Selected works are available for research and study and are shown in an exhibit for the public’s enjoyment. Her Iris painting was exhibited in the Seventh Annual Flora & Fauna Exhibit.

Janet has a botanical art certificate and applied her knowledge and skills to this Project. She said, “The Project increased my focus to scientifically study and present the Iris artistically. I was enriched professionally and personally challenged as I joined other artists whose works have been selected, archived, and exhibited.”

Janet, a Golden Sister, credits her MN Alpha Alpha sister, Mary Schultz, a staff member of the UMN Elmer L. Andersen Library’s Kerlan Collection, for encouraging her to participate in the F&FI Project.

Golden Apple for IL Xi Member

IL Xi sister Gayle Haab is the recipient of the 2025 Golden Apple Foundation Jan Jones Service Award. Gayle was recognized for her service in the field of education and beyond. The award is given to an individual who has exhibited a deep commitment to excellence in education in Winnebago and/or Boone County, IL. The award was established by the family of Jan Jones after her passing in 2013. Mrs. Jones taught in the Rockland, IL, public school system for 34 years.

Gayle taught every grade level from K to 12 in her 35 years as a physical education and art teacher in the Prairie Central and Kinnikinnick School Districts. In addition to teaching, she coached volleyball and started the track program at Roscoe Middle School.

Since retirement, Gayle has become an elected member of the Hononegah High School Board of Education, where she served as chairman of the education committee and co-chairman of both the finance and co-curricular committees. Gayle and her sons are graduates of Hononegah High. She has been the President of the Winnebago County Retired Teachers Association since 2020. She is currently serving on the Illinois Retired Teachers Association Board as a Region 1 Director, overseeing six counties. Gayle, with the assistance of the board, plans events and keeps members apprised of critical information through newsletters. She has helped organize fundraisers for scholarships for aspiring teachers.

A volunteer project of Gayle’s is VetsRoll. The organization makes arrangements to transport veterans by bus to Washington, D.C. Their mission, according to their website, is “To provide CLOSURE * GRATITUDE * RESPECT to America’s seniormost Veterans for the incredible sacrifices they have made in the name of freedom. Gayle has taken part in the project since 2016. She assists with fundraisers and organizing snacks and beverages as well as accompanying veterans on the trip and providing training and mentoring to the volunteer assistants.

Adding to her list of volunteer services, she has been an assistant leader for the North Main Rustlers 4-H Club for more than 25 years and a volunteer at the North Suburban Library, where she creates art lessons and projects for summer reading programs.

Gayle is a Violet Sister and has served as Xi co-president and historian. She has organized and participated in many altruistic projects to give back to those in need in our local area.

Information for this article provided by XI President Rebecca Sayles.

Carol Berning Receives Arts Award

TN Theta chapter Sapphire Sister, Carol Berning, was recognized for her artistic achievements by the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR). She received the Women in the Arts Recognition Award, a national award that recognizes and honors women for their outstanding achievements in non-performance arts. The award is presented at the community level to highlight individuals who have made a significant contribution to their artistic field. Carol’s nomination highlighted her accomplishments in visual arts, particularly in painting and quilting.

Carol is a two-time winner in the American Heritage Committee contest. In 2022, she won first place in the pastel category with her portrait of Marion Anderson, African-American contralto; in 2021, she won second place in the oil painting category with her portrait of her Revolutionary War patriot, John Goldsmith. Carol is a member of the Chief Piomingo Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution. Her work can be seen at www.carolberning.com.

Hawai’i Sister in National Hall of Fame

Pascale Creek Pinner, PhD, a member of Hawai’i Delta, was inducted into the National Teachers Hall of Fame in Emporia, Kansas, in June. Pascale and four other teachers were flown to New York to be celebrated on a recent broadcast of CBS Morning.

Pascale was the recipient of the Southwest 2024 Excellence in Education Award. The Violet Sister has taught for over 30 years and has received many awards, including the Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching. She is currently the President of the Hawai’i Science and Technology Museum Executive Board and has been the Hawai’i State Teacher of the Year.

The award was created in 1989 by Emporia State University, KS, to honor career teachers who have demonstrated commitment and dedication to teaching children. Five inductees are selected each year from nominated teachers. The inductees have their picture and a plaque in the Hall of Fame Museum on the university campus.

Inducted with Pascale were Valerie Camille Jones Ford, PhD, Georgia; Michael J. Dunles III, New Jersey; Tom Jenkins, Ohio and Micelle Pearson, Colorado.

“Life’s

Altruism

most persistent and urgent question is “What are we doing for others.” ” ~Martin Luther King, Jr.

OH Alpha Beta

“Growing” was the theme of OH Alpha Beta’s May meeting. “Not only do we help our students grow, we also help each other grow as A∆K sisters,” said Cathy Barnes, Alpha Beta membership chairman.

A highlight of the event was the annual scholarship presentation to a high school senior pursuing a degree in education. Hannah Palmer was this year’s recipient of the $1,000 scholarship.

Southwest District Chairman Gloria Taylor thanked the members for their A∆K outreach activities and accomplishments. International Executive Board Member Mary Ey sent a video applauding the chapter’s achievements. Sisters and guests also enjoyed a photo display of the year’s activities.

As an altruistic project, the chapter makes an annual donation to the Amos Memorial Library located in Sidney, OH. This year’s library summer reading program for students and children in the community is “Color Your World.” Alpha Beta sisters donated colored pencils, markers, craft items and other supplies to support the program..

The “Growing” theme was carried through in the decorations and featured seeds, flowers, watering cans and “dirt pudding” dessert. “At the end of the meeting, members were given a packet of seeds as a token of appreciation for all they do and as a reminder to spread the seeds of A∆K,” Cathy said.

Alpha Beta Scholarship Committee Members (L to R) Kendra Krouskop-Smith, Kristen Morgan, scholarship recipient Hannah Palmer, and Leah Finke.

CT Kappa

It was “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” for the sisters of CT Kappa. The chapter sponsored a team in Enfield, CT’s Girls’ Softball League. The team was part of the Instructional League for kindergarten and first-grade girls and introduced the girls to the fundamentals of the game. Pictured are players wearing their purple Alpha Delta Kappa shirts. Kappa members attended the games, cheering for the young players. According to Charlene Lauria, CT Kappa member, the chapter hopes to “Play Ball” annually.

FL Gamma Zeta

FL Gamma Zeta supported the Pace Center for Girls by attending its annual Grande Dames Tea. The Pace Center provides education, counseling and mental health services within a supportive and safe environment for middle and high school girls. This event, a major fundraiser for the Pace Center, also honors local women for their contributions to the community. Gamma Zeta members (L to R) Jacquelyn Porter, Barbara Batchelor, Susan Gower, Denise Fenicle and Brenda Bardelang had a good time dressing up for the tea party.

IL Beta

IL Beta Epsilon member Maureen Stombaugh shows items available at TOTS, a local organization that provides everything from clothes to cribs to car seats for children aged birth to four years. The organization is part of Family and Youth Services, helping the underserved. TOTS is one of Beta Epsilon’s altruistic projects. Toni DeLaurentis is the president of IL Beta Epsilon.

MI Beta Mu sisters (Front Row L to R) Ann Mucha and Marilyn Sickle. (Back Row L to R) Suzanne Erbes, Vicki Whitsett-Jackson, Joanne Benham, Janet Alaska, Susan Troxell and Rose Claus proudly show the water bottles they filled with dimes as the chapter’s contribution to the Alzheimer’s Association Longest Day event. Each filled bottle held $40. The sisters collected the dimes over several months.

MO Beta Xi

At the chapter’s annual scholarship luncheon, MO Beta Xi awarded $3,500 in scholarships to three Rockwood School District graduates planning to major in education. Chapter members dressed to fit the luncheon theme, “Around the Campfire with A∆K.” Janice Wenger, chapter co-president, was recognized as the recipient of the District ROSE (Rockwood’s Outstanding Service in Education) award. Janice was one of 15 district employees chosen from over 200 nominations for the award. The chapter raised scholarship funds through a variety of fundraising events for families, including two guided paint nights and a Cosmic Bingo night.

PA Gamma Chapter Salutes Excellence

By Eleanor Smith, Past PA State President 2008-2010

Chair Mary Ann Smith, Unsung Heroes Juanita Rodriguez and Julio Cordero, William Zeigler School Principal Nicole Patterson and Jamie Roberts, PA Gamma, who nominated the Unsung Heroes .

PA Gamma sisters are always looking for individuals who exhibit stellar qualities, such as middle school through high school writers, teachers who have an idea for a mini-grant, and school staff members who have done exemplary things in their schools but have never been recognized. We call these staff members our Unsung Heroes. What better way to get ready for the next year of the biennium than to highlight the best of the last biennium? We do that by inviting them to our annual “Salute to Excellence” brunch in May. There are three award committees: young writers, teacher mini-grants and Unsung Heroes.

Applications for student writers in middle school through high school are sent out to schools in the Philadelphia, PA area. The prompt this year was, “What is your superpower? Explain how it shapes who you are and how it has impacted your life.” Members of the Young Writers Committee review submissions and rate them using a rubric. Winners at the middle and high school levels are invited to the brunch where they read one of their pieces. They receive a certificate and a monetary award. Their parents and teacher are invited to attend.

The mini-grant recipients submit online proposals in late fall. This committee reviews each submission and selects two or three. Those grant writers are invited to a meeting where they explain their grant and receive a $500.00 award. They also return to the chapter after completing their project to share their success and are recognized at the May brunch for their accomplishment.

In January of each year, nominees for the Unsung Hero Award are solicited from our members, who submit a written recommendation detailing the person’s accomplishments. The chapter listens to the letter and decides if the secretary, cafeteria worker, bus driver or aide merits the recognition. There are one or two winners, each of whom receives an invitation to the brunch, a certificate and a monetary gift.

Gamma’s “Salute to Excellence” meeting is the highlight of the year. The many attendees represent all levels of the school community: students, parents, teachers, principals and school staff members. “We feel that it is the best way to show off what PA Gamma is all about,” said Eleanor Smith, a PA Gamma member.

Shown at a recent “Salute to Excellence” brunch are (L to R) Gamma President Laura Schmerfeld, Committee

MI Beta Mu

NC Epsilon

NC Epsilon members (L to R) Altruistic Chair Sandra Rountree, Aylett Burchfiel, Historian Krista Fox and President Susan Blackmon display the banner the chapter created for their year-long altruistic project to help encourage and celebrate teachers in their local schools. At each meeting, the chapter members packed small star-decorated bags with candy for the teachers of a select school. The sisters visited the schools where they hung the banner for a month and put the candy bags in the teachers’ mailboxes. Over the year, they were able to celebrate teachers at nine local schools. “We found that a little treat and encouraging words brought many smiles,” said Krista Fox.

TX Beta Omicron

Members of TX Beta Omicron show their support for the Alzheimer’s Association’s The Longest Day. The chapter raised $365 at a lunch. Carol Johnson, chapter membership chairman and South Central Region vice president for membership, gave the sisters rooted leaves from an Agnes African violet and directions on how to grow the violets successfully. The Agnes Violet is named for A∆K founder Agnes Shipman Robertson.

Ontario Psi

Ontario Psi members celebrated a successful year of chapter activities by naming Lauren Burn as the recipient of the chapter’s annual Award of Educational Excellence and presenting her with a check for $500. This is the sixth year the chapter has honored a Brock University School of Education graduating teacher candidate who has exemplified overall excellence in their final year of teacher training. Lauren received a BA with honors in Child and Youth Studies and a Bachelor’s of Education. Pictured are Psi Co-President Patricia Akers, Lauren, and Award Committee Members Giselle Whyte and Mary Johnson, who presented the award.

FL Fidelis Beta

The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Florida is one of the community outreach altruistic projects of FL Fidelis Beta. This spring, the members filled 130 snack bags for families with children in Orlando hospitals. The donations were delivered by PresidentElect Shirlynn Dedinsky and Co-President Laura Fraser.

WA Alpha Delta

Future teachers (L to R) Mitchell Inchinkhorloo, Hannah Lee, Chloe Wiliams, Clara Groth and Owen Carter are the recipients of $1,500 scholarships from WA Alpha Delta.

VA Gamma Sigma

VA Gamma Sigma received a $5,000 grant from the AACA (African American Community Alliance) to fund their Aspiring African American Educator Scholarship. The AACA is an umbrella organization for 18 nonprofits in Loudoun County, VA. Its mission is to assist their members in meeting and exceeding the unique needs of each individual or family they serve. Gamma Sigma awarded the scholarship to Aneena Rostom, who will be attending the University of South Carolina Honors College as a biological sciences major. She is intent on sharing her knowledge as a teacher and role model for young women seeking a career in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math).

Accepting the ceremonial check are (L to R) AACA Board Member Konah Terry, Lynn Krepich, Laura Davies, Shawn Simms, Nancy Thomas, Allie Strosnyder, Jen Carr, Ellen Tschantz, Gamma Sigma President Arlene Lewis, Kim Engle and AACA Board Member Patrick Brown.

GA Gamma Delta initiated six new members during the first year of this biennium. Pictured at their initiation (L to R) are Lori Howard, Renet Binder, Andrea Dalrymple, Joanne Taylor, Cynthia Poole and Marg Yergin.

CA Eta

CA Eta sisters gathered at a June summer social to celebrate their newest Sapphire Sister, Diana Keyes. Diana, a tireless worker and active participant for over 35 years, has held multiple offices in A∆K. She is the treasurer of the San Diego Presidents’ Council and past president of the Eta chapter. “It was a beautiful day to celebrate our beautiful sister,” said Eta President Barbara Campbell. Eta President Barbara Campbell (R) congratulates new Sapphire Sister Diana Keyes (L).

Maine

During a Maine state meeting, Beta chapter initiated Cathy LaRochelle and Nina Todaro and recognized Sigrid Serpico as a Violet Sister and Judy Wing as a Sapphire Sister. Sisters from New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Connecticut also attended the meeting at Nonesuch River Brewing in Poland, ME.

Camp POSTCARD (Police Officers Striving to Create and Reinforce Dreams) received $800 from Maine chapters for a summer camp for fifth and sixth-graders. Law enforcement officers from across Maine volunteer as camp counselors. The camp has been in existence for over 30 years.

Greeting the new members (L to R): Beta Membership Chair Sandy Jones, Beta President Jackie Leeper, Cathy Larochelle, Nina Todaro and Beta President-Elect Sigrid Serpico.

MN Alpha Theta

MN Alpha Theta sisters recently honored Grace Beck for her 50 years of service to the chapter and to A∆K. Grace, who was initiated in 1975, has twice served as chapter president. She was the Minnesota state president from 1986-88 and North Central Region chaplain from 1987-89. At the International level, she served on the Candidate Qualifications Committee. Grace, according to President-Elect Tracy Hein, played a big role in the chapter’s support of a scholarship for Miquette McMahon’s TeacHaiti Project when it started in 2007. Tracy says it is Grace’s legacy. Grace says that being asked to join Alpha Theta was the greatest honor of her life. MN President Claudia Mescher presented Grace with the certificate recognizing her as a Golden Sister. Grace was also given her Golden Sister pin. She shared stories of her adventures in A∆K and her gratitude for the friendship of members from all over the organization.

Grace (center) receives her well-

earned crown from Chapter Sergeant-at-Arms Carolyn Juell (L) and (R) Alpha Theta President-Elect Tracy Hein.

A∆K

One of the goals of the MN Psi chapter is to learn about the world around them in creative ways. Chapter President Shirley Stebbins describes their latest world understanding project, “A Taste of Sicily.” Can’t you smell the garlic and taste the hint of basil?

Southern Italy Comes to Moose Lake

By Shirley Stebbins, MN Psi President

In “Nonna’s Kitchen,” the table is set with lemon-decorated tablecloths, a bowl of lemons in the center of the table, sparkling water and wine glasses, little Italian bread rounds and olives just waiting to be sampled. Then, plates of bread with balsamic vinegar and olive oil, great Italian cheeses, and finally, Nonna’s Sicilian red sauce on an Italian pasta were brought to us. Were we out at a Sicilian trattoria in Palermo? No, we were fortunate to be at the May meeting of the MN Psi Chapter in Moose Lake, MN as guests of Joanne Unzen, whose Sicilian nonna inspired her to keep the Sicilian great food tradition alive and well.

As we gathered around her table, we were invited to try wonderful foods, yes, but we also learned about those foods— what breads, cheeses, balsamic vinegars, oils and wines would be best to use to make the most enjoyable Sicilian meal. Joanne embraces her Sicilian heritage through her nonna, and she shares her adventures, having visited Sicily several times, where she has met relatives still living there. Joanne would love to have a “casa” someday in Sicily. Will she be able to do that? Time will tell, but what is definitely known right now is that the Psi chapter sisters had a wonderful, tasty time in “Nonna’s Kitchen.”

Joanne Unzen, holding her nonna’s photo.

Below, Psi Chapter members gather around the table as Joanne discusses the balsamic vinegars and oils that enhance the wonderful flavors of Sicilian cuisine.

Michigan

Michigan chapters Alpha, Gamma Zeta and Chi gathered recently to celebrate their Golden Sisters and enjoy an evening of sisterhood. The theme for the meeting of the Southwest Michigan 3B Cluster Group hosted by Gamma Zeta members was “A Patchwork of Sisterhood.”

The 31 sisters in attendance received handmade coasters from the Alpha chapter. The coasters were small quilts in A∆K colors. MI Alpha Co-Presidents Ann Juzwiak and Susan Phillips, MI Gamma Zeta Co-Presidents Susan Derhammer and Charlene Lemon and MI Chi President Joyce Lewis spoke about their chapters’ programs, events, speakers and fundraising activities. A

“Getting to Know Your Sister Bingo” game was played and a slideshow loop featuring each chapter was shown.

Pictured (L to R) are the Golden Sisters who attended the three-chapter gathering: Sharon Doelker, Chi; Zoan Allen, Chi; Joyce Lewis, Chi; Fran Raffel, Alpha; Bev Wrubel-Gamma, Zeta; and Cheryl Warren, Chi. Not pictured are Golden Sisters: Naomi Barton, Chi; Kathleen Herbert, Chi; Cynthia Addison, Alpha; Jayne Visser, Gamma Zeta.

NC Pi

At a recent meeting, NC Pi members heard from Amber Drye, vocational training coordinator for the Union Public Schools, how work-based learning assists in providing opportunities for students to receive workforce training. Drye explained how the Coffee Nut program, in partnership with local businesses, provides entry-level skills as part of the vocational curriculum for students in the Transition to Adulthood and Occupational Course of Study in the Union Public Schools.

The Coffee Nut Café is the name of the coffee shop operated by students in the program and is located, during the school year, in the Monroe-Aquatic and Fitness Center in Monroe, NC. Proceeds from the café support the program.

NC Pi Past Chapter President Carol Blackwelder shared the information about this program.

Jean Addington

Omega Chapter

MEMBERS ADDED SINCE LAST ISSUE

Florida Fidelis Rho

Connie Akins Tennessee Alpha Chi

Joanne Alford Georgia Tau

Sharon Allen .................................................... Ohio Alpha Beta

Cheryl Anderton ......................................................... Florida Pi

Pierina Austin Washington Beta Iota

Dorean Barnes California Beta Rho

Carolyn Batsch Oregon Iota

Elaine Blasko Ohio Alpha Nu

Patricia Brownfield ............................................ Kentucky Theta

Velma Cain ......................................................... Nebraska Rho

Sue Calvert Texas Beta Iota

Laverne Cobb Georgia Beta Upsilon

Anita Cole

Georgia Beta Sigma

Margaret Cooper North Carolina Fidelis Sigma

Mary Davis....................................................... Arizona Omicron

Edith Denny ........................................................... Montana Eta

Peggy Derrington

Missouri Sustaining

Yolanda Desmond Arizona Fidelis Zeta

Andrea Didden Maryland Epsilon

Wanda Dreier Arizona Alpha Beta

Frances Ehman-Bellak ................................ New Jersey Epsilon

Caroline Eichner ............................................. Pennsylvania Eta

Jane Fay Wisconsin Psi

Carol Folden West Virginia Eta

Naoma Fraiser Arizona Sustaining

Marion Grady California Beta

Marilyn Gray .......................................... Arizona Alpha Lambda

Kay Green ............................................. Louisiana Alpha Kappa

Shirley Griffiths Arizona Alpha Epsilon

Ilene Hill Washington Alpha Nu

Elizabeth Horton North Carolina Phi

Dian Hughes Texas Delta Lambda

Adeline Janson ................................................... Ohio Alpha Nu

Sue Jobe ................................................... Tennessee Alpha Psi

Jacqueline Keating ................................... New York Alpha Zeta

Sue Laabs Texas Delta Beta

Priscilla Lane Kentucky Alpha Eta

Frances Leete North Carolina Alpha Sigma

Mary Legge ............................................ Texas Epsilon Lambda

Patricia Miller .............................................. Ohio Alpha Lambda

Bess Miller Ohio Phi

Evelyn Mills Tennessee Lambda

Darolee Nielsen Florida Fidelis Beta

Phyllis Northey Pennsylvania Omicron

Louise OBier ................................................... Delaware Epsilon

Sharon Page .......................................North Carolina Alpha Phi

Judy Palmer Tennessee Alpha Beta

Lynda Petree FLorida Delta Nu

Elizabeth Pluto Michigan Beta Nu

Beverly Pontius Washington Beta Alpha

Carol Richtsmeier .............................................. Texas Beta Iota

Susan Rison .......................................... South Carolina Upsilon

Edith Roper North Carolina Alpha Sigma

Joyce Rowe Vermont Alpha

Dona Scandura California Iota

Betty Schneider Texas Beta Zeta

Rosemary Short .................................. Michigan Gamma Alpha

Etienne Simon .................................................... California Beta

Geneva Smith Iowa Phi

Frances Steele Virginia Mu

Diana Taylor Missouri Alpha Beta

Bobbie Timmermann Arkansas Nu

Marilynn Trinder ......................................................... Illinois Eta

Dorothy Vaio ....................................................... California Beta

Millicent Vaughn South Carolina Alpha Epsilon

Paulette Walters Mississippi Iota

Mary Weaver Michigan Alpha Sigma

Janice Whittenberg Virginia Alpha Pi

Sue Williams ......................................................... Ohio Gamma

Elaine Wilthong ............................................ Missouri Sustaining

Lorraine Ziecker ......................................... Georgia Beta Sigma

Sisterhood in Action

The Alpha Omicron Chapter of Newport, Tennessee, extends sincere thanks to Alpha Delta Kappa at the state and

International levels for their support following the severe flooding in Cocke County in September 2024. Nearly 90 students and six staff members were displaced by the disaster. With the combined generosity of Alpha Delta Kappa and Alpha Omicron members, and in partnership with Cocke County Schools Support Services, we assisted 15 families. This aid covered essential expenses such as rent, utilities, groceries, propane and car or house payments. Your selflessness and compassion made a lasting difference during a critical time.

Information submitted by Tammy Williams, Alpha Omicron president.

PAEMST Award for FL Beta Psi Member

By Teresa Woodlief, FL Beta Psi President

Congratulations to Florida Beta Psi’s newest member, Madge Nanney, who was recently awarded the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. The award is one of the US government’s highest honors.

On January 13, 2025, President Joseph Biden announced 336 teachers and mentors from around the nation as recipients of the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) and the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM). These awards honor the vital role that America’s teachers and mentors play in shaping the next generation of technical leaders, including scientists, engineers, explorers and innovators.

Nominees completed a rigorous application process to demonstrate deep content knowledge and an ability to adapt to a broad range of learners and teaching environments. A panel of distinguished mathematicians, scientists and educators at the state and national levels assessed nominations before rec-

ommending awardees to the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP). Teachers were selected based on their distinction in the classroom and dedication to improving STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education.

Each Presidential Awardee received a certificate signed by the President, a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation (NSF) and an all-expenses-paid trip to an award ceremony. In addition, awardees joined a national cohort of award-winning teachers, providing opportunities to impact teaching on a state and national scale.

After graduating from the University of Florida, Madge taught for 35 years in Duval County Public Schools in Jacksonville, FL. She began her science teaching career in middle schools and served as a District Science specialist, supporting teachers across the district. Her career culminated at Darnell Cookman Medical Magnet Middle School, where she prepared students for collegiate success through a rigorous college preparatory curriculum integrated with professional medical standards, emphasizing integrity, the pursuit of excellence and a passion for lifelong learning.

Pictured (L to R) Alpha Omicron President Tammy Williams, Cocke County Schools Support Services Team members: Caroline Bowman, Jamie Graham and Makayla Barrett, Alpha Omicron Treasurer Lula Jean Hartsell and Alpha Omicron Past President Patty Davis.

A∆K Dates and Deadlines

SEPTEMBER

September 1 ................................... Holiday - Headquarters closed

September 30 .. S/P/N Presidents submit the next convention date, city and hotel site

OCTOBER

DELTA KAPPA MONTH

October 1 ............................. Chapter yearbook to S/P/N president

Regional Officer Candidates application opens

Classroom Grant deadline

KAPPAN submission deadline ( December publication)

–Speaking CONNECT–

COMMUNITY

A group of members with a common interest, passion or goal who connect and communicate with one another.

DAILY DIGEST

The email forwarded to members in the A∆K All Member Community daily or weekly.

DIRECTORY

The tab to access member information.

DISCUSSION POST

An online discussion between members to exchange ideas or information about a common topic.

LIBRARY

The location where files, videos or links are uploaded on A∆K CONNECT.

LOG ON

October 15 ........................................ 990-N IRS postcard deadline

Regional Fall Mini-Scholarship application deadline

Chapter Needs Assessment (CNA) Reflections - no form Conversations with S/P/N

NOVEMBER

November 1 .. Excellence in Education Award application with the nomination deadline

Regional Officers candidates’ application deadline

November 15 ........................................ Innovation Grant deadline

S/P/N Needs Assessment Year 1 Reflections - no form Conversations with Region

November 27-28 ............................ Holiday - Headquarters closed

PHOTO GALLERY

The location where a member’s photos of a special event or activity may be shared.

POLLS

Ways to ask questions or get feedback about areas of interest.

PROFILE

The page on A∆K CONNECT that includes the member’s photo, education, job history and professional associations.

QUICK LINKS

Links on the home page of A∆K CONNECT that direct members to the most frequently accessed tabs.

The secure link used to access A∆K CONNECT. The link requires the same password information used to access the International website.

A Dozen Ways to CONNECT

1. Explore interest communities

2. Engage with groups from any S/P/N

3. Start a discussion

4. Get travel advice from sisters who live in the area you plan to visit

5. Volunteer to be on the expert directory that is being developed

6. Sign up on Mentor Match to mentor a new teacher

7. Find out about new initiatives and talk online to the sisters involved

8. Use the online library

9. Post important information

10. Ask questions and get immediate answers

11. Scan archival materials

12. Organize files in a secure and easily located space

Alpha Delta Kappa

1615 West 92nd Street

Kansas City, MO

64114-3210

Convention Watch Party!

The Ontario sisters held an International Convention watch party at Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada. In full Western gear, they danced, cheered and applauded alongside the in-person participants in Austin. Sending out a “Howdy” are (below, L to R) Past Ontario Provincial President Marg Nieradka, Sigma; Elizabeth McQueen, Psi; Mary Johnson, Psi; Linda O’Grady, Psi; Rosemary Coomber, Psi; Ontario Provincial President Maria Luisa Lebar, Sigma; International Board Member Roberta Casabon, Zeta; Catherine Youngblud, Rho; Helene Bergevin, Eta; and Denise Palmer, Zeta.