The Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha: Summer 2008

Summer 2008

of Alpha Sigma Alpha

Wilma Wilson Sharp ,

1899–1988

ON THE COVER: Wilma Wilson Sharp

F E AT U R E S Summer 2008 5

DISTRICT DAY 2008–09 A brand new District Day structure revealed.

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COVER STORY: WILMA WILSON SHARP Alpha Sigs recall Wilma Wilson Sharp and her lasting impression on Alpha Sigma Alpha

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ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA WELCOMES THETA ZETA CHAPTER

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MEET YOUR 2008–09 LEADERSHIP CONSULTANTS

DEPARTMENTS 4 11 16 17 18 21 23

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT EVERY MEMBER MAKES A DIFFERENCE ALUMNAE CHAPTER PROFILE FOUNDATION NEWS DISTRICT NEWS NEWS & EVENTS FROM THE ARCHIVES

Wilma Wilson Sharp camping with some friends.

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of Alpha Sigma Alpha Volume 94, Number 3

Summer 2008

FROM THE EDITOR Dear Readers, This issue of the Phoenix is dedicated to Wilma Wilson Sharp in memory of her passing 20 years ago. Mrs. Sharp was a real woman of character.

She personified the true meaning of the two words “poise and purpose.” Through my research about Mrs. Sharp, I realized that she reflects exactly what is said in our ritual. She lived and breathed Alpha Sigma Alpha like many of our volunteers do now. Be sure to read Barb Williamson’s inside look at Mrs. Sharp.

Other must reads are the new District Day structure and the new leadership consultants to travel for . I hope that you enjoy reading the Summer Phoenix as much as I had putting all the pieces together.

Mizpah,

DEADLINES Winter . . . . . . . . . September Spring . . . . . . . . . . December Summer . . . . . . . . . . . March Fall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June

STAFF 10 10 10 10

EDITOR Editor/Communications & Marketing Coordinator Louise Morales, lmorales@alphasigmaalpha.org

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Senior Contributing Editor Nancy I.Z. Reese, niz_reese@comcast.net

NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS 9002 Vincennes Circle Indianapolis, IN 46268 Phone: 317-871-2920 Fax: 317-871-2924 Email: asa@alphasigmaalpha.org

PHOENIX OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA (USPS 430-640) is published quarterly by Alpha Sigma Alpha, 9002 Vincennes Circle, Indianapolis, IN 46268. Periodicals postage paid at Indianapolis, IN, and additional mailing offices. Produced by Maury Boyd & Associates, Indianapolis. © Alpha Sigma Alpha.

Send address changes, death notices and business correspondence to the national headquarters. Address all editorial correspondence to the editor.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes (Form 3579) to Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha, 9002 Vincennes Circle, Indianapolis, IN 46268. Printed in the USA.

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M essage from the president

National president prepares to pass the gavel B Y L O R I E . W H I T E S C O T T , National President

I am in a relay race. However, instead of a baton, I am passing a gavel. This summer, my presidency ends and a new volunteer will take over the reins as your national president.

I am not sure whether or not any of you have ever ran track or participated in a relay event, but it is exhilarating to pass the baton into an open hand with the assurance that the next runner is going to run a good race with speed, agility and above all else, determination. Then my job becomes that of a cheerleader. I support my teammates as they complete the race and hope for a medal finish. What a feeling!

Looking back on the four years I have served as national president, I am humbled by the unselfish friendship and love that so many collegians and alumnae have shared with me. From Boston to Denver . . . from Washington, DC, and Virginia to Missouri . . . from Michigan to Texas, I have been greeted with open arms and I am so proud to call these friends “sister.”

I have also been blessed with many friendships among the National Panhellenic Conference community and treasure the time I have spent serving as part of the Conference.

As national president, I have worked closely with some amazing men and women at our national headquarters. Our staff is outstanding, and I can honestly say that we would not be where we are as an organization without these talented individuals.

I am so thankful for the camaraderie that I have shared with the women who have served with me on national council.

We have forged a bond of friendship that cannot be broken and been part of an exciting era in Alpha Sigma Alpha’s history.

Their keen sense of humor has been a breath of fresh air and provided me with laughter and energy as we persevered through some challenging times and enjoyed the thrill of victory and achievement while serving together as a team. Please know that I have loved every minute of my tenure as national president!

As I anticipate the “passing of the gavel” at our national convention and leadership conference, I am excited about our future as a women’s organization. Our nominated national council consists of seven bright, vibrant and competent women.

Their dedication and spirit to succeed is contagious. I have complete confidence that they will uphold the ideals set forth by our Founders with enthusiastic courage. We are fortunate to have these volunteers that are willing to serve our members with humility, patience and most of all, love.

To all of you I say, run the race with passion and integrity. I know that our new leaders will inspire our organization to be BIGGER, BETTER, BOLDER and STRONGER. How cool is that?!

Yours in ,

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New District Day programming and structure for 2008–09 B Y N A Y D I A S P E A R S , Leadership Development & Event Coordinator

What is my purpose? This question certainly echoes in the minds of many women today. Today’s woman represents an array of different jobs and responsibilities.

Collegiate women are not only students, but also part-time employees, campus leaders, daughters, sorority sisters, community volunteers and some are also mothers and wives.

Alumnae women often wear even more hats, as many of them hold full-time or part-time jobs, volunteer in civic or religious groups, are sorority sisters, not to mention many are mothers and grandmothers. In all the chaos of changing so many hats a day, it is often difficult to figure out where and if sorority life fits in and how to prioritize so many different roles and duties when all of them seem to be equally important.

Alpha Sigma Alpha’s purpose, “to foster close friendships between members and develop women of poise

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and purpose,” aims to equip women for the world and continue their education as lifetime members of the sorority.

In 2002, Alpha Sigma Alpha restructured as an organization. This created changes in volunteer organization and leadership as well as regional events.

The organization moved from province directors to district facilitators and a full team of district volunteers, trained to assist collegiate and alumnae chapters with educational, recruitment and financial responsibilities. The restructuring was birth to an event that now has the largest attendance of any other event — District Day. Last year almost 1,400 alumnae and collegians attended District Day events across the country. This year Alpha Sigma Alpha celebrates the sixth anniversary of District Day and is proud to announce new programming and structure for the 2008–09 year. Collegians and alumnae alike will not want to miss the exciting activities planned for this year’s upcoming District Days.

New District Day programming is funded in full by a significant contribution from the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation.

Please visit the Foundation table at District Day for more information about getting involved.

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Dates for 2008–09 events are set.

District 2 – Feb. 28, Mt. Laurel, PA District 3 – Nov. 15, Pittsburgh, PA District 4 – Feb. 28, Newport News, VA District 5 – Nov. 15, Lansing, MI District 6 – Oct. 4, Terre Haute, IN District 7 – Nov. 8, Nashville, TN District 8 – Nov. 8, Chicago District 9 – Feb. 21, Kansas City, MO

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Alpha Sigma Alpha will be utilizing the professional programming of The Leadership Institute—Women with Purpose. This organization was created by the Alpha Gamma Delta Fraternity and the Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation.

The mission of The Leadership Institute is to provide educational programming for the development and enhancement of leadership skills of women. They are committed to educating and inspiring women by offering opportunities and resources for personal growth through which they will be better prepared as leaders in their lifelong endeavors.

New programming will feature a collegiate and alumnae track, with programming specific to meeting the needs of each.

The Leadership Institute was chosen as the appropriate venue after Executive Director Krystal Geyer Slivinski, , met and talked with The Leadership Institute Executive Director Stephannie Bailey at the annual National Panhellenic Conference meeting. “After talking with Stephannie and seeing the group present a workshop on navigating conflict at the Association of Fraternal Advisors Annual Meeting, I realized this organization offered exactly what was looking for,” Krystal said.

Following the 2007–08 District Day events, district meeting coordinators and district facilitators were surveyed to identify key factors to help make the event more successful. Volunteers agreed that professionally based programming, higher alumnae focus and consistent venues were key to producing a more successful event.

According to Beth Reed,

, the district meeting coordinator in District 9, “This new structure is very organized; I think it is going to make an amazing line up for the upcoming year!”

This District Day differs from past events because this is the first time professional programming will be included. In the past, workshops were given by volunteers. Also, previous District Day events have not included alumnae members in the capacity that this new structure provides.

Alumnae will now have a programming track designed specifically for their needs.

Furthermore, collegiate participants will enjoy an event that not only addresses individual officer concerns and organizational values, but also a large group workshop to help the entire chapter be more productive.

National Vice President of Membership Christine Strapac Thomas, , says, “This new structure will assist our volunteers in the District Day planning process and will provide new educational opportunities, recognition and fun for volunteers, alumnae and collegians of all ages. I’m excited to participate in District Day for the upcoming year and watch the event flourish. It is a great time to be an Alpha Sigma Alpha.”

Collegiate track Every collegian knows the struggles of making chapter, executive board, committee or other campus activity meetings productive. Even though there may be an agenda, attendees get off track, “chase rabbits” and bring up topics that are not pertinent to the issue at hand. This can be very frustrating for leaders as well as other meeting participants.

This year’s collegiate track will feature new programming called “Managing Meeting Mishaps.” The goal of this large group workshop is to increase the leadership skills of participants by effectively assessing difficulties that occur SUMMER 2008

during meetings and then identifying the steps involved in making necessary changes. All collegiate attendees will have the opportunity to attend this workshop.

Alumnae track Career, family, volunteer roles, household duties, community, Alpha Sigma Alpha—so much to do and so little time. What’s a woman to do?

Many alumnae can certainly relate to experiencing the overwhelming feeling of being stretched too thin, over-committing themselves or having to-do lists longer than the hours in the day. Alpha Sigma Alpha recognizes this reality among alumnae members and aims to assist alumnae in balancing the many responsibilities of their busy lives.

District Day 2008–09 will feature an alumnae track called “The Act of Balance.” This large group workshop will

encompass information on prioritizing responsibilities and balancing all the roles that women fill. “The Act of Balance” workshop will be open to alumnae attendees. Volunteers also will be able to attend, which has not been possible in the past due to responsibilities at the event.

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Values-based chapter operations programming

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Following the large group workshops, attendees will participate in afternoon values-based programming. These programs are designed for any chapter member to participate in and are not exclusive to the chapter position only.

■ Growth — Advisor training, conducted by the district advisory board liaison ■ Learning — Advantage — Getting the whole chapter involved in the member education process

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Relationships — Year-round recruitment, it’s about relationships Balance — Chapter academic success Responsibility — Show me the money!

Financial education including Wi$e Up Enjoyment — Making fun a priority in your chapter Integrity — Risk management for the whole chapter Generosity — Philanthropy in the chapter, giving back feels good

Additional highlights The District Day structure this year will feature new highlights and old favorites including: ■ National council and district volunteers — “Ask us anything” forum ■ Revisit the ritual workshop ■ National council — “Members Moving Us Forward” focus group ■ Philanthropic projects ■ Restructured district annual meeting, including new senior recognition ■ Alumnae and collegiate chapter recruitment table competition ■ Mini-emporium with giveaways ■ Afternoon roundtables for officers and members to share ideas. Roundtables will also feature discussion tables for seniors, alumnae, new members, as well as a brainstorming table for next year’s District Day events with the district meeting coordinator.

Registration begins in September. Come find your purpose at District Day 2008–09!

Zeta Pi Chapter members from Colorado State University-Pueblo at District 9 District Day in 2008 with National President Lori White Scott, , and Vice President of Communications Dolly Purvis Loyd, .

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Cover story: Wilma wilson sharp

B Y B A R B W I L L I A M S O N , National Historian

What words come to mind when you hear the name “Wilma Wilson Sharp?”

If you are an collegian or a recent alumna, your first thought might be “The Creed of Alpha Sigma Alpha,” which was written by Mrs. Sharp.

But to the women who knew her personally, the words they immediately think of are “lady” and “graceful” and “humble.”

Wilma Wilson Sharp was one of the sorority’s first true women of poise and purpose. “She was a beautiful lady. She was always a lady,” recalls Judy DeMasters Winter, , former Foundation board member and good friend of Mrs. Sharp.

Alpha Sigs recall Wilma Wilson Sharp and her lasting impression on Alpha Sigma Alpha “The world, the whole world, challenges you—college girls, sorority girls, my girls of Alpha Sigma Alpha.

My message to you is to go back to your college campuses, and to your individual positions determined to broaden the horizons of your daily experiences.

Life is immense— live it to its fullest.”

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“I never heard her speak ill of anyone.

She always saw the best in everyone.

She loved Alpha Sigma Alpha. It was her whole life, and she gave up everything else except her church and Sunday school class for .”

Judy reminisced about the first time she met Mrs. Sharp. “I met her in 1944 when I was a pledge. I saw her walking across the campus at Warrensburg and thought, ‘What a lovely lady!’ I was introduced to her later that day, and my opinion never changed.”

In the early years of the sorority, things were much different than they are now.

Communication between chapters and national officers was done solely on paper and not by e-mails, phone calls or instant messages.

There were fewer chapters and less sorority business to conduct, but the bulk of that sorority business fell to Mrs. Sharp. She was constantly traveling, representing the national sorority at local chapter events, installations of chapters and conventions throughout the United States.

“In the early years, she kept all the Alpha Sigma Alpha paperwork at her

home in boxes under her bed. She was so pleased to see the national headquarters building in Springfield, MO, become a reality. She was proud that had outgrown the boxes under her bed!” laughs Judy.

In April of 1919, Zeta Zeta Chapter at University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg, MO, was chartered, and one of the charter members was Wilma Wilson.

By 1922, she was the national registrar (kept all the records) for and served in that position until 1930, when she was elected national president at the Boston convention. She was the first national president in many years who was a collegiate initiate and member of . That home-grown feeling of having one of their own in leadership endeared Mrs. Sharp to the women of .

That convention body of Boston was the first of many to elect Mrs. Sharp to its highest office. She served as our national president from 1930–36 and again from 1941–52. During her tenure in office, was accepted into the National Panhellenic Conference.

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1. Wilma Wilson Sharp in the 1950s.

2. A very young Wilma Wilson in the bottom left corner of a Zeta Zeta Chapter composite.

3. National Registrar Jean Raup Grady, , National Secretary Helen L. Corey,

, and National President Wilma Wilson Sharp at the NPC convention in 1951.

4. Mrs. Sharp at the 1984 national convention held in Kansas City, MO, the last convention that she would attend.

5. Alpha Sigma Alpha’s 50th anniversary was celebrated in style. Evelyn G. Bell, , stands with Mrs. Sharp as she cuts the anniversary cake.

6. Mrs. Sharp is greeted by Ella Pilkinton Adams, , (left), president of the Richmond Alumnae Chapter, and Jean Raup Grady, , national registrar (right), at Bryd Airport, Richmond, VA. Mrs. Sharp was en route to Williamsburg, VA, for attendance to the 32nd National Panhellenic Conference as ’s delegate.

Wilma Wilson married Fred Sharp in 1925, and they made their home in Independence, MO. They had no children, but Mrs. Sharp thought of all s as her girls.

Two days after the bombing of Pearl Harbor in 1941, which brought World War II to the doorstep of America, Mrs. Sharp wrote a letter to the collegiate women of . It was a call to action for all s on every campus. That original letter hangs in the chapter room of the Zeta Zeta Chapter.

“For now our obligation to each 3 other, to our country is immeasurably increased. So long as we can, we must courageously and faithfully keep at our individual work and lives—in college, at home or distant places.

“Then, if we are called upon to serve elsewhere, we will be ready. We will have had the discipline that results from a self imposed calmness, and the personal preparedness that comes from an inner courage and stability.

“Alpha Sigma Alpha college girls will be more than equal to the uncertain days ahead.

You will find ways to serve and to bring security and comfort to those about you . . .

As I write this, many and vivid memories of college chapter contacts come to me. They are especially dear to me tonight for love reaches out with stronger bonds in times of anxiety and trouble. So will you heighten the spirit of sisterhood within your own chapter.

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1. Wilma Wilson’s school picture found with her school credentials.

2. Wilma Wilson (on the left) with a friend wearing typical 20s clothing for a casual day in the country.

3. Past national presidents gather at the founders’ memorial plaque located in the Rotunda of Longwood University in 1976. They are (left to right) Jean Raup Grady, , Evelyn G. Bell, , MaryAnn Sidehamer Linton, , and seated is Wilma Wilson Sharp.

3 “You will help each other to gallantly bear the quick changes that may come. You will have an enduring courage, a worthy place in our America-at-war. And you will work to make come true ‘the bright dream of America marching on.’”

In 1957, Mrs. Sharp retired as ’s NPC delegate, ending 35 years of active service to and the Greek community.

She was named the president emerita of by the national council in July 1959.

“She never mentioned the title of president emerita. Any honors that came to her, she just glossed over them,” Judy states.

Past National President Diane Yencic James,

, says, “She always had a smile on her face. She was very kind, humble and soft spoken.”

“Wilma Wilson Sharp was a petite, graceful lady,” remembers Johanna Haag Gardner, , Foundation board trustee.

“I think she was endearing to all because she carried her small frame with poise; spoke softly, but with great intelligence; and always had a warm smile and caring eyes behind the glasses. I met her in college. The Zeta Zeta Chapter was hosting State Day, and I was chairman, so I wrote to Mrs. Sharp asking her to attend and speak, and she accepted.

Connie Peyton Hoffman and I had the incredible responsibility of escorting her that day and it was awesome. We knew what a presence we had in our midst.

It was an especially touching day because we announced the Zeta Zeta Wilma Wilson Sharp Award and Connie received it. Mrs. Sharp gave it to her personally.

“I will never forget the warm hug I received from her at the days’ end.

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at other events along the way, but this event was my first meeting and the most memorable,” Johanna concludes.

Judy laughingly recalls the trip with Mrs. Sharp to the Virginia Beach convention in 1970. “My husband and I picked her up to take her with us to the airport for our flight to Virginia.” When they arrived at the ticket counter, they discovered Mrs. Sharp had made no advanced airplane reservation.

“She just wanted to write a check for her ticket when we got to the airport, but then we discovered she had no ID with her!” continues Judy.

Fearing the plane was going to leave without them, Judy’s husband, Weldon, urged Judy to get on the plane. Weldon told her he would stay with Mrs. Sharp until she got a flight out of Kansas City.

As the airplane door was getting ready to shut, Mrs. Sharp got on the plane to join Judy who was very relieved to see her board!

Dressed in their finest dark suits and hats, the women were chatting on the first leg of the trip to Chicago before continuing on to Virginia. A young mother with an infant approached them and asked if they wouldn’t mind holding her baby while she ate lunch.

Always eager to serve others, Mrs. Sharp immediately answered, “Of course!”

“Out of all the people on that plane, I have no idea why she picked us!” says Judy. The baby’s leaky cloth diaper soon had both women’s dark suits obviously soaked! The mother had disappeared from view and didn’t seem to be in a hurry to come back for her baby.

Mrs. Sharp thought the woman had abandoned her own child, until Judy

reminded her that the mother couldn’t have escaped from the airplane. They finally gave the baby to a flight attendant to return to the mother. Judy laughingly says, “What a mess we were when we got to Virginia!”

When her life was drawing to a close, her niece was by her bedside. One day Wilma Wilson Sharp looked over to see her niece in tears. “Don’t cry for me.

I’ve had a good life. I’m going to a better place,” she comforted her niece.

Mrs. Sharp died on July 16, 1988. It is hard to believe that it has been 20 years since she passed away. Her impact on Alpha Sigma Alpha continues to live on in the words she penned and the lives she touched. The women who knew her best emphasize that they never heard her say one bad thing about anyone. How many people do you know today who can claim that personality trait?

If she were here today, perhaps she would tell each member of her beloved sorority what she said in her speech at the 1930 convention. “Alpha Sigma Alpha is your sorority. It must reflect the individuality, the charm, and the capability of its composite membership.

The world, the whole world, challenges you—college girls, sorority girls, my girls of . My message to you is to go back to your college campuses, and to your individual positions determined to broaden the horizons of your daily experiences. Life is immense—live it to its fullest.”

Did you enjoy reading this article?

E-mail us your thoughts to lmorales@ alphasigmaalpha.org.

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Every member makes a difference

B Y A N G I E P I S K O R S K I , Feature writer As women, we all understand the intimate relationship we have with our hair, and for licensed cosmetologist, Amber Commer, , this relationship is even more important. Our hair says a lot about who we are, and Amber used her hair to tell the world about a very important cause. At a March 8, 2008, St. Baldrick’s event, Amber shaved her hair in front of an audience of people in honor of children fighting cancer.

The Northwest Missouri State University senior says her personal mission is to “make a difference in a child’s life, be it through education, donation, service, etc.� After hearing of the St. Baldrick’s Foundation through a high school friend, Amber began researching the foundation and decided to participate as a “shavee� in an event scheduled at Pete’s Inn, Kansas City, MO. Gandhi once said, “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.�

Amber says this quote continues to influence her life. She believes, “if everyone lived her life by this rule, then the world would be a much more compassionate and beautiful place.�

To stand by the words she lives by, Amber and her high school friend inquired about making and selling shirts with the Gandhi quote as a fundraiser for the event. However, due to high costs, the shirts would not produce the profit Amber hoped to donate. After much consideration and brainstorming, a friend suggested Amber make leather bracelets with “Be the Change� imprinted on them.

These bracelets would end up raising hundreds of dollars.

Amber shared with the other members of Phi Phi Chapter her plans during a candle passing ceremony. “They gasped when I told them that I would shave my head,� Amber says.

After the ceremony each sister requested a bracelet to support childhood cancer. Another one of Amber’s friends mentioned her commitment to St. Baldrick’s during a student senate meeting and the bracelet frenzy began.

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Amber explains its growth, “Once people were wearing the bracelets, everyone started asking about them.

The bracelets are very fashionable so even people who wouldn’t be compelled to donate were enticed by how original they were.�

Amber recalls the most amazing moment was when the Phi Phi Chapter motioned to donate to her cause.

Hoping for a $50 donation, Amber began “bawling my eyes out,� when a motion was made to donate $610 to St. Baldrick’s. When Phi Phi Chapter President Megan Victor, asked for a second, all 61 members raised their hands. “It is amazing to know that you have your sisters who will back you up through anything.�

Amber’s growing donations won her the “Top Participant� recognition at the March 8 St. Baldrick’s event where 80 other participants raised money to shave their heads. Amber raised over $1,530, exceeding her personal goal of $1,000.

On that day a total of $11,495 was donated to the St. Baldrick’s Foundation.

When Amber was called to the shaver she remembers, “Looking out into the audience, I could see seven of my sorority sisters with tears in their eyes as they cut ponytail after ponytail off my head. Every one of my sisters have been nothing but supportive in my efforts.�

Amber confessed feeling that shaving her head would be a big sacrifice.

However, she now realizes it was a small sacrifice compared to what the children have to sacrifice everyday. “I get the choice to shave my head, and I still have my health regardless of my lack of hair. These children have to live

Collegiate member joins the cause for children fighting cancer

Erin Colasacco supporting Amber Commer, on the right, before Amber’s hair is shaven off.

Ways to participate in a St. Baldrick’s event Be a shavee: Raise funds to shave your head to support kids undergoing chemotherapy treatment while raising funds for life-saving research.

Be a barber: Volunteer your time and talents as a licensed barber or cosmetologist.

Be a volunteer: Help during a scheduled event by facilitating “registration, photography, collection of funds and more.

Organize an event: Contact 888-899-BALD and help lead the way to a cure for childhood cancer.

Make a donation: Visit www.stbaldricks.org or call 888-899-BALD. All information taken from www.stbaldricks.org

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Every member makes a difference

Amber Commer, with Phi Phi Chapter members, is all smiles after having her hair shaved off.

What is the St. Baldrick’s Foundation?

St. Baldrick’s began as a casual conversation between friends and has exploded into the world’s biggest volunteer-driven fundraising program for childhood cancer.

Events are orchestrated and help people raise money and shave their heads in honor of childhood cancer. Events have been held in eight countries and 46 states.

In 2004, the St. Baldrick’s Foundation became an independent charity. Since its start in 2000, the St. Baldrick’s Foundation has shaved over 46,000 heads and donated over $34 million to various research institutions, doctors and members of the Children’s Oncology Group.

For more information on the St. Baldrick’s Foundation or to get involved in the fight against childhood cancer, visit www.stbaldricks.org or call 888-899-BALD.

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with a disease that could potentially kill them.

Shaving my hair was the least that I could do.”

Since shaving her head, Amber admits “it is hard sometimes going to a school in a small town because people are not used to seeing someone who looks different. Whenever I go to the store people always stare.”

As a result she encourages “everyone to remember that we were not all made the same and that different is not bad.” In response to Amber’s new look, Megan says, “She not only looks incredible bald, but she has inspired other girls to be confident with themselves and their appearances. She is a role model and a leader who doesn’t make you feel guilty for not doing what she does. Amber simply inspires you to help others and leads through example.”

Vice President of Public Relations and Recruitment Jessica Brown agrees. “It is so powerful that she could willingly give up what is so precious to most women. She completely rid herself of vanity in sacrifice of others. That is a strong statement and she has inspired many people to ‘Be the Change’.”

At the beginning of this journey, Amber had no expectations, but hoped “something good would come out of it,” and she believes it has. In honor of children fighting cancer, the Phi Phi Chapter has committed to nominating a “shavee” on a yearly basis for the St. Baldrick’s event. Jenny Francka, a Phi Phi Chapter member, praises Amber as a woman of poise and purpose.

“She believes in changing the world one step at a time and constantly and selflessly goes out

of her way to put others first. Friends like Amber remind me why this sorority is so important to me,” says Jenny.

As if this story is not inspiring enough, this is not the first time Amber has taken a stance to make the world a better place. She studied abroad in South Africa where she volunteered to teach 4- and 5-year-old children English.

She says the children had no English skills, but “it is absolutely incredible to see how much information you can relay to a child through your facial expressions and body movements.”

Her trip to South Africa, inspired Amber to travel abroad once again. She went to the Philippines where she lived in extreme poverty for two and a half months. Amber says the family she lived with used a hose and bucket as a shower and a hole in the ground for a toilet.

Amber again taught English to the children.

While in the Philippines, Amber went on various medical missions and worked with the local nutritionist to feed malnourished children.

As a result of her trip, Amber had a severe case of pneumonia and was hospitalized. Amber says “the trip was amazing. I got to touch the lives of children who know nothing but the poverty that consumes their lives. I learned so much and it has really been the driving force in my life since.”

Amber will be teaching English once again.

She is going to Calcutta, India, to teach in the school founded by Mother Teresa. Amber believes “education is the greatest equalizer in the world, and it is the only way that countries will pull themselves out of their poverty.”

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Alpha Sigma Alpha welcomes Theta Zeta Chapter

“These women are so deserving of this and have worked so hard to make it to this point. They are so motivated and driven. Each day they surprise me with something new. I am so proud to welcome them to such a wonderful organization, but I am even more proud to call them my sisters.�

—Sarah Zimmerschied,

B Y C H R I S T Y A D A M S , , Membership Development Coordinator and S A R A H Z I M M E R S C H I E D , , Leadership Consultant The first weekend of April was an exciting time for Alpha Sigma Alpha as the Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) Colony was installed as the Theta Zeta Chapter.

The IUPUI Colony began as a local sorority, Theta Zeta Psi, and it was a happy coincidence that its Alpha Sigma Alpha chapter name resembles its founding organization.

The Sanctuary Degree and Installation was held on Saturday, April 5, 2008, at the historic Roberts Park Methodist Church in downtown Indianapolis. The installation team consisted of Brenda Mesalam, , Lori White Scott, , Christy Adams, , and Sarah Zimmerschied, .

Many Indianapolis alumnae were in attendance to make the day special for Alpha Sigma Alpha’s

Culminating the evening was the unveiling of the Theta Zeta Charter.

According to Installation Chairman Jennifer Reece, “It was perfect!�

newest chapter. “You could feel the excitement and energy from the colony members throughout the entire day.

I couldn’t help but be excited and thrilled along with them,� said Louise Morales, .

Theta Zeta Chapter President Christy Gleason looks on as National President Lori White Scott, , unveils the charter.

Theta Zeta Chapter members at the white luncheon.

The traditional white luncheon was held in the campus student center immediately following the ritual. The chapter received many lovely gifts. Members of the Delta Kappa Chapter, University of Southern Indiana, as well as Indianapolis, North Star, MN, and Windy City, IL, alumnae attended the luncheon.

“I’m speechless. It is surreal to see where we were five years ago and where we are now.� —Christy Gleason, chapter president.

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New initiates Christy Gleason Samantha Armstrong Jennifer Bach Ashley Baldwin Lauren Campbell Kristen Covalt Rachel Cozee Claudia Estrada Jessica Faux Brandi Finger Rachel Goss Brenna Green Ashlee Grisel Laura Harmon Rachel Hill Kate Hutton Lindsey Jacobi Abby Johnson Heather Kroetz Allie Krumb Nyla Mitchell Amy Overan Kristen Rager Jennifer Reece Natasha Seitz Mallory Shadday Jessica Siple Samantha Townsley Sydney Verhonik Alicia Welcher Lexi Winkski Beth Yarian Alumnae initiates Brandi Collins Monica Gardner Carrie Gray Brooke Moore Beth Terry

Special recognition Alpha Sigma Alpha instituted four new special recognitions during the installation weekend, specifically for newly installed chapters.

Theta Zeta Chapter members voted, and the recipients are: 1. Outstanding Member Award – Jennifer Reece 2. Makes Your Sisters Smile Award – Abby Johnson 3. Academic Excellence Award – Rachel Goss 4. Outstanding Sister Award – Christy Gleason

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Gifts received by the chapter Bible from Jeet Sausen, , and Emily Just, Framed creed from Zeta Psi Chapter, Loras College, IA Customized stationary set from Washington, DC, Alumnae Chapter Plaque from Delta Kappa Chapter, University of Southern Indiana Cut glass platter from Cincinnati Alumnae Chapter Signature book from Epsilon Theta Chapter, Pennsylvania State University at Erie – Behrend College Corsages from Nora Ten Broeck,

Engraved scrapbook from Gamma Omega Chapter, Eastern Illinois University The celebration continued at the installation banquet, where Leadership Consultant Sarah Zimmerschied, served as the mistress of ceremonies and Dan Maxwell, director of the campus center, served as the guest speaker for the night. The toasts to the Theta Zeta Chapter of Alpha Sigma Alpha were lead by Shalonda Newcomb, Delta Kappa Chapter, Louise Morales, , Indianapolis Alumnae Chapter, and Leadership Consultant Jeet Sausen, . Pictured below are Jessica Faux, , Lori White Scott, , Brenda Mesalam, , and Christy Gleason, .

New members Katie Earl Sarah McMillan Laken Rose Jessica Rocha Alicia Watt Kaitlin Wise Advisors Kristen Coffing-McCarrick, Carrie Gray, Melanie Hollcraft, Brenda Mesalam,

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SUMMER 2008

Three women to travel for Alpha Sigma Alpha Developing women of poise and purpose, empowering sisters to make a difference B Y C H R I S T Y A D A M S ,

Membership Development Coordinator The 2008–09 leadership consultants will travel across the U.S. from August to April providing leadership training and educational programming to Alpha Sigma Alpha collegiate women.

As it was last year, this year the main focus for the leadership consultants will be recruitment. The leadership consultants will be visiting chapters to help plan for formal recruitment and to assist chapters in their informal recruitment efforts.

Before hitting the road, these women will receive a month-long intensive training that will cover everything from Alpha Sigma Alpha’s recruitment philosophy to how to mentor a member.

“Being a Leadership Consultant, I am most looking forward to getting to meet my sisters all over the country and experiencing Alpha Sigma Alpha on a new, larger level.”

—Chasity Grome Chasity Grome, Chasity Grome graduated from Schreiner University in Kerrville, TX, with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. She held the positions of vice president of public relations and recruitment and fundraising chairman for the Theta Epsilon Chapter. Chasity served her campus Panhellenic as vice president, alternate voting delegate and as a recruitment counselor. On campus, Chasity was president of the energizers team and parliamentarian for the drama club. She is a founding member of the Theta Epsilon Chapter and helped the chapter receive both Attain level recognition in 2006 and a Four Star Chapter Award in 2007.

The leadership consultant job is challenging and requires a person to be adaptable, have the ability to confront difficult situations, have emotional control, take initiative, be organized and be a good listener. Leadership consultants need the ability to communicate and enforce policies while at the same time motivate the chapter.

If you are interested in working for Alpha Sigma Alpha as a leadership consultant, please contact Christy Adams, , at Alpha Sigma Alpha National Headquarters, 9002 Vincennes Circle, Indianapolis IN 46268, or call her at (317)871-2920 or e-mail cadams@alphasigmaalpha.org.

Nicole Millar, Nicole Millar graduated from Grand Valley State University in Allendale, MI, with a bachelor of arts in psychology.

Nicole served the Grand Valley campus as a resident assistant, university programming board president, Sibs Weekend chairman for 2006 and 2007, residence hall association community council liaison and Niemeyer Community Council vice president of community development. Nicole received the “I Am Grand Valley” Leadership Award 2005, Resident Assistant “Rookie of the Year” Award, All-Greek New Member of the Year 2006 and was voted homecoming queen for 2007.

“I’m most looking forward to visiting new chapters and learning the personalities of at each school, because everywhere even in District 5 seems to be a bit different.

I can’t wait for them to teach me something about their chapter while I share a bit of Zeta Tau Chapter with them!”

—Nicole Millar

SUMMER 2008

“I can’t wait to meet members from different chapters and see how they do things and see what types of ideas they have. I also can’t wait to be surrounded

by Alpha Sigma Alpha sisters every day.

It is going to be amazing!”

—Shalonda Newcomb Shalonda Newcomb,

Shalonda Newcomb graduated from the University of Southern Indiana with a bachelor of science in chemistry and biology.

Shalonda served the Delta Kappa Chapter as fundraising chairman, philanthropy chairman, ritual chairman, vice president of public relations and recruitment and president for two years. She served her campus Panhellenic association as an inter-Greek planning committee member, a judicial board member, student government representative for Panhellenic, Panhellenic bylaws committee, recruitment rules committee and recruitment counselor.

She received the Greek Woman of the Year 2005 and Phenomenal Woman of the Year 2006.

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A lumnae chapter profile Yes, you can really go home again B Y S U Z A N N E K I L G A N N O N , Past National President American novelist Thomas Wolfe wrote a novel entitled You Can’t Go Home Again. But can you? With work, relationships, relocations, career changes, graduate degrees, marriages, divorces and family crises our networks expand while others may fade. But after many years, is it possible to really “go home again”?

Twenty-two years after graduating from college, I now have my own answer.

You can, especially when you have the deep and abiding connections found in Alpha Sigma Alpha. Our sisterhood knows no boundaries.

When I attended Radford University, a beautiful campus nestled in the hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Southwestern Virginia, I pledged Alpha Sigma Alpha. It was 1982. I joined because of the women I knew, like Kim, Holly, Winky and The Suz. I joined with Crissy, Linda, Sarah and Hope. Then came Joann, Debbie and Kendra. That was my Beta Iota Chapter, the realm of Alpha Sigma Alpha that I knew and loved at that point in my life.

After graduation, we went our separate ways. Most of my sisters stayed in the Mid-Atlantic area while I did not.

Weddings and holiday cards typically kept me connected, but over time those grew fewer. Days turn into months, which turn into years. But just as life changes and time may pull connections apart, they also help bring you back together.

Two years ago I learned that a chapter sister lost her father. When I picked up the phone to send my condolences, I was suddenly transported back to the 1980s when the voice and infectious laugh on the other end of the phone used to keep me up at night procrastinating. I realized that even after all these years, the connection we once had was still there.

Soon, thanks to the wonderful world of the Internet, a handful of us from Beta

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Iota Chapter reconnected.

We had a reunion in Williamsburg, VA, in December 2007.

As excited as I was about the trip, I was also stressed out about it. What do I wear after not seeing my sisters for that many years?

Would I recognize them after all these years? Would they recognize me?

Of course, my stress was unwarranted. We met for brunch and as soon as I walked in, The Suz and Kendra immediately came running to hug me.

We ate and drank, told stories and caught up as, one by one, the others arrived.

Soon the entire group was there and it seemed we took over the restaurant!

Imagine, the 10 of us talking at once trying desperately not to miss a beat.

There could have been no one else in the entire town of Colonial Williamsburg for all we knew. We were so absorbed in catching up on what had been happening in our lives over the past 22 years. It was no small task but we tried.

We shared our frustrations, heartaches and our tragedies along with our successes and victories. We tried to piece together what we each knew of our other chapter sisters. Each of us held a piece of that puzzle.

After a while, Hope dragged out a large black storage trunk to reveal memories of our collegiate days. We laughed until we cried as we rummaged through the trunk looking over our 1984 composite, a 1982 pledge book, a variety of paddles and souvenir glasses from our formals.

The 22 years brought us a lot. There are several career changes, 15 children, a divorce, a graduate degree and some parents passing.

Participating in a Beta Iota runion are, back row, from left, Joann Donnellan, Suzanne Kilgannon, Kim Davenport Fruin, Linda Woody Nopper, Sarah Jundt Glover. Front row (left to right): Deb Slater Brennan, Crissy de Guzman Gardner, Hope Dix Sullivan, Kendra Allman and front center: Susie Butler.

To a person, we admit that our chapter sisters were the core of why we joined Alpha Sigma Alpha. We also acknowledge that it remains Alpha Sigma Alpha that keeps us bonded together no matter how much time has passed.

After a day and a half it was back to reality. Suz, Deb, Kendra, Sarah, Hope and Kim had to get back to their families.

Joann had to get to work. Crissy, Linda and I went shopping as I waited for my flight back to Chicago. Now there are only a few months left until this years’ reunion.

We each are finding one other sister to bring with us this time.

Our Ritual speaks of love that never ends. For the laughter and the tears, for the support and the love, I thank my sisters from Beta Iota Chapter. Moreover, I thank Alpha Sigma Alpha.

So yes, Mr. Wolfe, you can go home again.

SUMMER 2008

F oundation news

Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation’s Mission To invest in the potential of women by promoting service, leadership and lifelong learning through charitable giving.

Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation introduces a new giving opportunity for young alumnae

BY BENTE FEIN Foundation trustee To further broaden support for Alpha Sigma Alpha, the Foundation is introducing the Sisters Helping Sisters Challenge Match. This challenge is designed to give current members of the Heritage Society, Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation’s leadership giving society, the opportunity to help interested young alumnae move immediately into the Heritage Society.

Here’s how it works: The Foundation asks a current member of the Heritage Society to pledge an additional $125 in fiscal year 2009. For every “match� the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation receives a young alumna present at convention will be given the opportunity to join the Heritage Society with a gift or pledge to the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation of $125. The combination of a Heritage Society member pledge and a young alumna’s gift will qualify her for membership in the Heritage Society.

Everyone benefits. A younger alumna becomes a Heritage Society member as soon as she makes her pledge. The leadership donor receives the pleasure of helping a young alumna experience the joy of giving. And together the sisters will provide Alpha Sigma Alpha with even more support.

Every gift to the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation is important, but the impact of a young alumna’s Heritage Society-level gift is particularly vital in moving Alpha Sigma Alpha forward.

SUMMER 2008

Foundation gives thanks to all donors Your additional Heritage Society gift will be used to help a young alumna become a member of the Heritage Society. â–

Current members of the Heritage Society are not eligible to receive the match.

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Only alumnae initiated in 1998 or later are eligible to receive the match.

Won’t you help a young alumna through the Sisters Helping Sisters Challenge Match?

To make your pledge to match one, two or more young alumna members, please contact Stacy Johnson, , Foundation executive director, at sjohnson@alphasigmaalpha.org or (317) 713-1924.

As we came to the end of our fiscal year on May 31, 2008, we reflected on progress achieved and made plans for the upcoming year. We celebrated the continued support of our loyal donors and excitedly welcomed 621 new donors.

Thank you to all of you who gave so generously to the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation in fiscal year 2008. You are all making a difference with today’s members, young and old, by investing in the future of Alpha Sigma Alpha.

We are inspired by your commitment and encourage you to inspire others to give.

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D istrict news

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1. Delta Epsilon Chapter members hanging out at their annual Relay for Life at Mansfield University. 2. The Valentine's Tea for the Greater Kansas City Alumnae Chapter was co-hosted by Leisha Beckemeyer Barry, ; and Chesley Sims Belcher, . Alumnae members donated household and personal items to be given to the NewHouse Shelter for battered women. 3. The sisters of Beta Nu, Murray State University, extended bids to eight women this past spring. Jenny Chandler, Laura Schaumburg, Kelsa Mueller, Meredith Sumner, Brittany Ciukja, Caitlin Faust, Rusa Reimnitz, and not pictured Kate Brownson. 4. Zeta Kappa Chapter alumnae and members from the North Star Alumnae Chapter attended the Zeta Kappa, Minnesota State University-Mankato, formal held in March 2008. Front row (left to right): Kristy LaForte Litke, Monica Brooks and Elisah Flemming. Back row (left to right): Larissa Laramee, Stacy Post Fuhrman, Crystal Hoff Miller, Jani Grantz and Kelly Hoover. 5. Beta Lambda Chapter members at the University of Central Arkansas, Sara Butler, Mallory Morgan, Victoria Schlutterman and Ashton Speed, showing their chapter support during basketball intramurals.

6. Alpha Chapter alumnae gather for a girls’ weekend to wish Wende Davis Temme best wishes before relocating to Castle Rock, CO. Front row (left to right): Carolyn Nelson Peterson, Nancy Pillow Moore, Wende Davis Temme and Katie Logan Bullock. Back row (left to right): Julie Wiley Levine, Tricia Fisher Popular, Michelle Ragsdale Sommardahl and Heather Davis. 7. This year Gamma Iota Chapter, Rochester Institute of Technology, NY, members raised $1,840 for their local polar plunge benefiting Special Olympics. 8. The Delta Eta Chapter from DePaul University, IL, jumped into Lake Michigan for the Chicago Special Olympics Polar Plunge dressed as “super hero� ladybugs.

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D istrict news

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Learning 1. Chicago area alumnae chapters and the Milwaukee area alumnae chapters held an all alumnae tea gathering at Long Grove, IL, on April 13, 2008. They had a fantastic turnout with 22 people in attendance. 2. The Dallas Alumnae Chapter came together to make Easter baskets for the mentally challenged adults in a Dallas facility.

3. Zeta Iota Chapter at Stony Brook University, took the plunge in freezing water at the Special Olympics Polar Plunge held in Bar Beach, Port Washington, NY. They raised over $1,500. 4. The charter members of the Blue Mountain, PA, Alumnae Chapter celebrated their one-year anniversary on June 16, 2007. Pictured from left to right: Lisa Kriek Reaser, , Cathleen Mengel, , Theresa Krufka Podguski, , April Piper Schaffer, , Andrea Crawford Stock, , Gretta Haag Young, , holding her daughter, Rebecca, Nicole Oertmann, , and Andrea Heckman, . 5. Beta Rho Chapter, Northern Illinois University, shows their support for the Virginia Tech Hookies a year after their shooting, by sending this picture of the chapter holding up the signs saying “Huskies for Hokies.�

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N ews & events

Save the date for headquarters new facility grand opening The new national headquarters facility will be officially unveiled and dedicated in September 2008.

On Friday, Sept. 12, the sorority will host an open house and give building tours to special guests. Alpha Sigma Alpha members, Key Campaign donors, the interfraternal community, vendors and other friends of Alpha Sigma Alpha are invited to this special event.

On Saturday, Sept. 13, Alpha Sigma Alpha members and their friends will gather for the ribbon cutting ceremony and official dedication of the headquarters building.

You will not want to miss out on this historical occasion, so please mark your calendars now to join us in September.

District guiding stars Congratulations to the following women who were recognized as district guiding stars at the spring District Day events.

The district guiding star recognition program was established by the national volunteer recruitment and placement team to recognize outstanding members in each district. This program recognizes one collegiate chapter officer, one alumnae chapter officer, one advisor and one district volunteer. â–

District 2 Collegiate Chapter Officer: Kelly McLaughlin, , vice president of alumnae and heritage at Rowan University, NJ Alumnae Chapter Officer: Heidi Reinbold Adsett, , Greater Valley Forge, PA, president Advisor: Renee Allen Werner, , Delta Chi chapter advisor at Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania District Volunteer: Lori M. Sherel,

, district webmaster and Philadelphia Metro Alumnae Chapter secretary and editor

SUMMER 2008

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District 4 Collegiate Chapter Officer: Jessica Birney Freedman, , scholarship chairman at James Madison University, VA Alumnae Chapter Officer: Amber N. VanLue, , Triangle, NC, vice president Advisor: Sherrie Smith White, , Theta Gamma chapter advisor at Christopher Newport University, VA, advisory board district liaison and Virginia Peninsula Alumnae Chapter president District Volunteer: Angela Dantzler Bauldree, , district meeting coordinator, Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation trustee and Charlotte, NC, Alumnae Chapter treasurer â–

District 5 Collegiate Chapter Officer: Melissa Low, , vice president of programming and ritual at Grand Valley State University, MI Alumnae Chapter Officer: Shawnette Moll Markey, , Mid-Michigan Crown vice president and secretary; Delta Sigma ritual advisor at Saginaw Valley State University, MI Advisor: Adrea J. VanDenBerge, , Zeta Tau housing advisor Volunteer: Stephanie Wirtz, , district meeting coordinator

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District 9 Collegiate Chapter Officer: Laura Liston, , collegiate treasurer at Rockhurst University, MO Alumnae Chapter Officer: Barb J. Williamson, , Capital City, Topeka, treasurer, national historian and district webmaster.

Advisor: Kristi L. Lettig, , Zeta Pi chapter advisor at Colorado State UniversityPueblo and Southern Colorado Alumnae Chapter treasurer District Volunteer: Valerie Bergquist Pitts, , finance coaching team leader, Epsilon Epsilon chapter advisor at Emporia State University, KS, and Capital City, Topeka, Alumnae Chapter vice president

Calling all Alpha Sig authors The new Alpha Sigma Alpha Headquarters will have a dedicated space for books in the museum. We would like to fill it with Alpha Sigma Alpha authors. If you have written a book and would like to contribute to the official Alpha Sigma Alpha library, send your books to Alpha Sigma Alpha National Headquarters, 9002 Vincennes Circle, Indianapolis, IN 46268.

New staff position created to focus on recruitment and extension

Amber Shaverdi,

, has been hired as the membership growth coordinator for Alpha Sigma Alpha. As the membership growth coordinator, Amber will coordinate the sorority's membership growth and recruitment initiatives, including extension and colonization. Amber joined staff on June 2, 2008.

Amber earned her bachelor of arts degree in communications from Pittsburg State University in Kansas in 2005. She earned a master of science in college student affairs from Eastern Illinois University in 2008.

She previously worked at Alpha Sigma Alpha National Headquarters as a leadership consultant from 2005–06. Since her time on staff, Amber has volunteered for Alpha Sigma Alpha as the District 6 education coaching team leader.

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Alpha Sigma Alpha expands to Clayton State University

Alpha Sig national bestselling author releases new book

Denise Swanson, , writes from her personal experiences as a school psychologist and small town resident. Her books are set in Scumble River, a fictional Illinois town, and feature Skye Denison, a school psychologist-sleuth, who solves mysteries loosely based on incidents that occurred in Denise's own life.

Skye and Denise share many characteristics, including being Alpha Sigma Alpha alumnae.

Also appearing in the series is Skye’s sorority sister, Loretta, who is now a hotshot Chicago criminal attorney.

Denise’s tenth book, Murder of a Chocolate-Covered Cherry, came out April 2008, and she is working on her 11th book.

She is a member of the Chicago West Alumnae Chapter and lives in Illinois with her husband David Stybr.

For a complete listing of Denise’s books visit http://www.DeniseSwanson.com.

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Alpha Sigma Alpha is proud to announce that it will be starting a new colony at Clayton State University in Morrow, GA, for the 2008–09 school year. Alpha Sigma Alpha will be the first NPC group on that campus.

Clayton State University is located 15 minutes from downtown Atlanta in a beautiful lakeside setting.

With an enrollment of 6,000 students, Clayton State has experienced significant growth over the past six years.

The university is ranked by U.S. News & World Report as having the most diverse student population among comprehensive baccalaureatelevel colleges and universities in the southern United States.

For more information about Clayton State University visit www.clayton.edu.

Alumnae interested in helping this group should contact Christy Adams at cadams@alphasigmaalpha.org.

Convention and conference photos will be available by mid-August If you are missing out on the 2008 Alpha Sigma Alpha National Convention and Leadership Conference in Albuquerque, NM, you can check out all the pictures that were taken throughout the week by visiting www.8xten.com.

Pictures will be available for viewing and purchasing by mid-August.

Alumnae chapter growth Alpha Sigma Alpha is proud to welcome three new alumnae chapters.

■ The Five Seasons Alumnae Chapter, Cedar Rapids, IA, was founded by 13 women on Nov. 26, 2007.

The Treasure Valley Alumnae Chapter, Boise, ID, was founded by six women on March 9, 2008.

■ The Central Florida Alumnae Chapter, Orlando, FL, was re-established by 17 women on March 29, 2008.

Alpha Sigma Alpha currently has interest groups in Paducah, KY, Kailua, HI, Anchorage, AK, Oklahoma City, OK, and Albuquerque, NM. If you are interested in helping turn these groups into alumnae chapters, please contact national headquarters.

Membership in Alpha Sigma Alpha is for a lifetime.

To see if there is an alumnae chapter in your area, visit www.alphasigmaalpha.org and click on alumnae chapters.

It only takes five members of Alpha Sigma Alpha to charter an alumnae chapter. If you are interested in starting an alumnae chapter in your area, contact Leadership Development & Event Coordinator Naydia Spears, , at nspears@alphhasigmaalpha.org.

Sue Zorichak, , named Woman of the Year Denver Area Panhellenic recently celebrated a milestone—100 years. Year after year, these outstanding women make a difference in the Denver metro area with programs, philanthropies and Panhellenic support.

Not only was DAP selected the Outstanding Alumnae Panhellenic for the past biennium by the National Panhellenic Conference, but it also holds the distinction of being the only Alumnae Panhellenic in the country to have respresentatives from all 26 NPC groups as members. Also, Denver, CO, alumna Sue Zorichak, , received a great honor of being selected as this year’s Woman of the Year.

Seventeen of the past DAP presidents were present, including two from Alpha Sigma Alpha, Ellen Funk Morris, , and Barb Johnston Hofmockel, .

SUMMER 2008

From the Archives

1955 READER’S GUIDE The Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha, the official quarterly publication of the Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority, has been published continuously since 1914.

Its mission is to reflect the character of the organization and its members and to communicate the goals and direction of the sorority and Foundation.

Contact us Post us: The Phoenix, Alpha Sigma Alpha, 9002 Vincennes Circle, Indianapolis, IN 46268 E-mail us: lmorales@alphasigmaalpha.org Call us: (317) 871-2920; for magazine questions, select ext. 20 Fax us: (317) 871-2924 Visit us: www.alphasigmaalpha.org SUMMER 2008

National officers take a break in the shade during the 1955 national convention in Biloxi, MS.

How to receive the Phoenix All collegiate members and alumnae members receive the Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha. Individual copies are mailed to each member’s permanent address and a few are sent to the chapter editor or the chapter house.

asa@alphasigmaalpha.org. You may also call us at (317) 871-2920, ext. 110.

How to get published

Your daughter’s magazine is being sent to your address while she is in college.

We hope you enjoy reading it too.

If she is not in college, or is no longer living at home, please send us her new permanent address (see below).

Collegiate chapters and alumnae chapters: Each editor is a correspondent for the Phoenix magazine.

View deadlines and photo requirements listed below. Chapter updates and photos must be submitted via e-mail to lmorales@alphasigmaalpha.org. If you have news about an individual alumna, please send information to lmorales@alphasigmaalpha.org or send information to the address above.

How to change an address

Photo requirements

Parents and guardians

You can send address changes to the mailing address listed above or e-mail your old and new addresses to

Please e-mail only high resolution photos at least 500kb in size. Only pictures that are of good quality can be used. Pictures

that are blurry or have been scanned do not produce well and therefore cannot be used. Pictures should tell a story of what is happening.

How to send a letter to the editor We always welcome your comments— both criticism and praise—about this publication. E-mail lmorales@ alphasigmaalpha.org or send mail to Editor, Alpha Sigma Alpha, 9002 Vincennes Circle, Indianapolis, IN 46268.

General deadlines for submissions Winter issue: Sept. 10 Spring issue: Dec. 10 Summer issue: March 10 Fall issue: June 10

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To learn more about the Arista Alumnae Association or to register for membership, visit www.alphasigmaalpha.org or call (317) 871-2920.

“As an alumna initiate, the joys and benefits of being an are still new and exciting to me. I can’t believe how warm, caring and encouraging my new sisters have been. I am a member of the Arista Alumnae Association because I want to demonstrate my commitment and gratitude to Alpha Sigma Alpha.”

Dr. Karin Anderson, Arista Gold Partner Windy City Alumnae Chapter 2008 National Convention & Leadership Conference workshop speaker