The Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Spring 2024

FROM THE NATIONAL PRESIDENT

It may take us a minute, but for the most part we can recall the names of Alpha Sigma Alpha’s Founders. We know Wilma Wilson Sharp’s name, we recall Dr. S. June Smith, some of us experienced the Emma Coleman Frost Leadership Development Institute or we served as panhellenic delegates and channeled Sidney Gremillion Allen. However, what about the sisters’ names that aren’t nationally known? Who are the heroes of Alpha Sigma Alpha not captured in our history? I think about the women who shaped our current sorority experience – the women who dreamed, worked and gave freely of themselves for the betterment of Alpha Sigma Alpha. They served solely for a love; an agape love, of our beloved sorority.

As I write my Phoenix column to you, March is just underway and it’s Women’s History Month. Last night I was reading to my daughter, Hattie, from a book that’s a collection of female trailblazers. Naturally she had questions about why girls/ women couldn’t play sports or do the same things as boys/ men. A question I still can’t quite wrap my head around (that’s a greater conversation for another day), but for the sake of my six-year-old daughter and bedtime I explained that people just didn’t understand how powerful and capable women were at that time. She replied saying, “but they know now”. As Hattie drifted to sleep, I thought about her outlook, the power of women supporting women, the overwhelming need to provide women a space to find a sense of belonging, and then I reflected on the purpose of Alpha Sigma Alpha.

The founders of Alpha Sigma Alpha created the Sorority on the principle of a shared friendship. They had received bids to the other sororities at the State Female Normal School (now Longwood University), and they asked why not create a fourth where they could all be together. They valued their friendship and each other to such a degree that they worked to establish Alpha Sigma Alpha. There is beauty in the simplicity of our origins. And while I’ve read our history book multiple times cover to cover, I still wonder how our Founders and the women of Alpha Sigma Alpha’s history had the bravery, confidence and ingenuity to continuously be ahead of societal changes all for the purpose of women having a venue to find genuine friendships, a place to flourish and a place to belong.

We should not only celebrate the legends of Alpha Sigma Alpha, we should also celebrate and applaud the women who care and love for the national sorority and local chapters. Who are the sisters who provide you with unconditional love, no matter the circumstances? Who are the sisters who elevate you and your aspirations? Who are the sisters who give with no expectation in return? It is those sisters who deserve our acknowledgement and our gratitude. (Pictured above are just some of the women who dream, work and give freely of themselves for the betterment of the sorority experience.)

Each of us has the power and responsibility to invest in Alpha Sigma Alpha’s future and the experience of current and future sisters. Our current efforts will help ensure the Sorority elevates women and our value of authentic friendship.

Arista, AMBER SHAVERDI HUSTON, HH NATIONAL PRESIDENT @ASAHUSTON LINKEDIN: AMBERSHAVERDIHUSTON

Phoenix features

How has travel helped you develop relationships?

"I have had the life changing opportunity to represent the University of Central Arkansas as a study abroad student in Kokkola, Finland this spring semester. Travel has allowed me to form relationships in a completely different way than I was used to back home. I have become immersed in the Finnish culture by meeting locals and I’ve also been able to learn so much history, bits and pieces of multiple different languages and more from other international students. These friendships will last a lifetime and open up so many opportunities in the future. Being connected globally is an amazing thing to experience.”

"My recent service-learning trip to Kilimanjaro, Tanzania this past January holds so many amazing memories for me. Not only that, but it provided me with many new friends. As a college freshman, I was the youngest student in the group of 20 students, none of whom I knew previously. However, we spent all week, 24/7, with each other. We also met many locals throughout our workdays. It was amazing to learn about, and from, these people. It was wonderful getting to develop these relationships with all the people I met and I cannot wait to go again next year.”

Lexi Kennedy, BΛ

RieAnn Krinn, IΔ

FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Dear Sisters,

As we embark on another edition of the Phoenix, I am delighted to welcome you to the latest installment of our magazine. With each issue, we aim to provide you with insightful articles and engaging stories tailored to meet the interests and needs of our members.

In this issue, we delve into travel and members who are around the world. We highlight women in Alpha Sigma Alpha’s history and share a recap of our strategic plan as well as an update on our next strategic framework that will guide the sorority into the future. And speaking of the future, biographies of our slated leadership are included in this issue.

We are also excited to highlight the achievements of our members in our Volunteer Appreciation and Elevate & Influence sections. Members’ dedication, passion and commitment are the driving force behind our organization’s success, and we thank all of those who dedicate their time and talents to Alpha Sigma Alpha.

Additionally, I encourage you to take advantage of the various opportunities for involvement and collaboration

within our organization. Whether through participating in our upcoming convention or finding a volunteer opportunity that brings you joy, your active engagement strengthens the fabric of our organization and enriches the experiences of fellow members.

Thank you for your continued involvement in Alpha Sigma Alpha. Together, we are elevating the influence of women in the world!

In ASA,

KRYSTAL GEYER SLIVINSKI, ΓΡ EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Volume 110 | Issue 2

Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha (USPS 430-640) is published bi-annually by Alpha Sigma Alpha, 9002 Vincennes Circle, Indianapolis, IN, 46268-3018. Marketing postage paid at Indianapolis, IN and additional mailing offices. © Alpha Sigma Alpha

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

POSTMASTER: Send address changes (Form 3579) to Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha, 9002 Vincennes Circle, Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018. Printed in the USA.

EDITOR

Krystal Slivinski, Executive Director

DEADLINES

Fall June 10

Winter Sept. 10

Summer March 10

NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS 9002 Vincennes Circle

Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018

Phone: (317) 871-2920

Fax: (317) 871-2924

Email: ASA@AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

The Alpha Sigma Alpha Alumnae Book Club connects members with a shared passion for reading. Alpha Sigma Alpha’s Alumnae Book Club has four book selections and discussions each year. All discussions take place live via Zoom with the questions made available one month prior. Join Alpha Sigma Alpha alumnae in its book club discussion:

Wednesday, August 7 at 8:00 pm ET. “The Alice Network” by Kate Quinn

To participate, members must request to join the “Alpha Sigma Alpha Alumnae Book Club” Facebook group.

BINDING ARBITRATION REMINDER

All Alpha Sigma Alpha new members, undergraduate members and alumnae members making claims for personal injury, claims for damages to property or disputes of any nature will be referred for resolution through the Alpha Sigma Alpha Claims and Dispute Resolution Program. Please log onto to MyAΣA for a copy of the Claim and Dispute Resolution Plan and Rules

Volunteer Opportunities

Alpha Sigma Alpha is seeking volunteers to serve at the local, region and national level. It is a great time to get involved as placements are happening now for positions that begin in July following the national convention & leadership conference. Positions range in time commitment starting at 1-2 hours a week and are in-person and virtual. No experience is necessary as volunteers are provided with training and support. To learn more about volunteering, fill out a volunteer interest form at alphasigmaalpha.org/ volunteer-interest-form/

MEMBERSHIP

EDUCATION UPDATES

Alpha Sigma Alpha is excited to announce upcoming changes to our membership education program. Based on feedback gathered through focus groups in 2022 and 2023, our membership education has been revised to allow flexibility within our programs and to encourage quality in-person interactions and discussions among members. These changes will be previewed at the National Convention & Leadership Conference this July in Kansas City, MO with workshops on Saturday, July 13 and informational webinars to follow in July and August. There is no action needed by chapter officers at this time.

HERMES SOCIETY

SPRING 2024 INDUCTEES

Anna Hunter, ΘΣ

Maresa Hrapchak, AΓ

Samantha Bauer, ΓX

Meerat Qaiser Khan, NN

Paige Heller, ZΣ

Taylor Braun, EH

Elizabeth Warabow, EY

Nina Board, ΘZ

Iris Denner, ΘΓ

Laine Thoreen, EE

Kathryn Tedder, ΘX

Chelsie Steinmetz, ΘT

Gracey Meacham, BN

Monica Forte, EY

Madison Scheidler, EY

Halle Courtney, ZA

Sarah Shuba, ΘT

Maylea Apelizan, EΓ

Hannah Lewitas, ΔI

Erin Leschewski, BK

Brooke Nugent, AΓ

Cassidy Byrnes, EY

Mallory VanHoorebeck, ZY

Haley Ryan, ΔI

Sydney Patrus, AΓ

Liliana Brockway, ZN

Madison Claudy, ZY

Paige Duell, IΓ

Taylor Seckington, BΛ

Meghan Bittinger, EY

Samantha Epperson, ΔI

Francesca Cuchna, ZY

Brooke McCurry, BK

Allison Schawitsch, ΔK

Chelsea Becker, BB

The Hermes Society is Alpha Sigma Alpha’s exclusive academic honor society reserved for junior and senior members with a GPA of 3.5 or higher. The society was created in 2009 in an effort to continue to advance Alpha Sigma Alpha’s commitment to fulfilling the intellectual aim of the Sorority. Undergraduate members are accepted annually through an application process. Congratulations to the Spring 2024 Hermes Society Inductees!

NATIONAL ALUMNAE DUES

Did you know an easy way to give back to Alpha Sigma Alpha is to pay your $35 national alumnae dues? Alumnae can renew their lifetime commitment to the Sorority and make a difference for current and future members.

The national alumnae dues supports our Sorority in covering costs like the Phoenix magazine, leadership training programs, new chapter development, volunteer training, advanced technology and continued support for established chapters. National alumnae dues are paid annually in conjunction with the Alpha Sigma Alpha fiscal year, June 1 to May 31. National alumnae dues can be paid online at MyASA.org or by sending a check to Alpha Sigma Alpha National Headquarters – 9002 Vincennes Circle, Indianapolis, IN 46268. Thank you for your support!

Around the World AΣA’s

Madison Brunson, ΘX

Last Spring I traveled to Panajachel, Guatemala on a study abroad trip. During the trip I stayed with a host family. We ate three meals a day with our host family and only spoke Spanish. Every morning our class met at the school, and we went on an excursion to a town nearby. We learned about the culture and history of each town where we met locals who educated us on important landmarks. Every afternoon we’d split into groups based on our knowledge and took Spanish classes at a local school. In the evening we participated in other activities like shopping at the market, kayaking on the lake, and trying local coffee and homemade bread. I will never forget feeling so comfortable with my host family and the local people. This trip ignited my desire to learn from others through travel and cultural immersion!

Hannah Bissett, ΘΔ

I went to Barcelona, Spain for a month to study at the Universidad de Barcelona. In the classroom I focused on grammatical practices of Spanish and picked up a few words in Catalan, and learned the rich history and culture of Catalonia. I believe that throughout this experience I will take away the wonderful food I experienced there and the friends I made along the way. I experienced long metro rides to class and I have a new appreciation for live music that sounded the streets.

Jenna Schweikert, ΘN

During the 2023 fall semester, I studied abroad in the heart of Dublin, Ireland. After living there for three months, I discovered that I am capable of doing the things I want to accomplish if I simply trust myself to make it happen. Living so far from home in a strange city without anyone I knew, was absolutely terrifying at first. I did scary things, like taking my first solo trip and making new friendships. But the rewards like becoming an internationally published journalist through my internship, meeting countless people from around the world and experiencing the rich culture of Ireland, eventually outweighed my fear. From those three months, I will always remember the feeling of finding myself; of finally fully believing in my own capability to be successful. I am already the woman that I want to be and living abroad showed me that.

Eryn Wagoner, ZA

I traveled to Italy last summer for two weeks with the “Art & Anatomy trip sponsored by Missouri Southern State University.” While there we visited Venice, Florence, Siena, Bologna, Rome, Vatican City, Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast. My favorite city was Venice because you could explore as much as you wanted without getting lost since the only way off the island was by boat or train. We visited a lot of museums and galleries but my favorite part about this trip was spending my free time exploring the cities we were in and of course all the late-night gelato trips. I will never forget spending my birthday in Rome and eating the best pasta I’ve ever had! I absolutely loved my time abroad and I am already trying to figure out when I can go back.

Madison Markelon, ΘΣ

I traveled to 12 different cities throughout Greece, Italy and Malta. This trip was put together with a coworker of mine, and we had never traveled outside the country before. We experienced so much in the 14 days we were abroad – the landscapes were so picturesque that it didn’t feel real. The Colosseum was breathtaking, the Panathenaic stadium in Athens was full of rich history and the Blue Grotto in Capri didn’t look real. I learned so much about different cultures, tried new food and embraced how different the way of life is abroad than back home. I created new friendships I will forever be thankful for; I gained a new love for traveling and I have been exploring new places ever since. I’ve learned to say yes to opportunities and step out of my comfort zone. I cannot wait to explore Europe more in the future.

Andrea Rivera, ZΣ

This past summer, I had the opportunity to travel to London, England. It was a trip organized through the University of Incarnate Word’s Fashion School. I am so grateful to have experienced such an amazing place. We had minimal free time, but we had multiple appointments with brands and manufacturers. I got to visit iconic burrows and landmarks like Camden, Convent Gardens, the London Eye, Piccadilly Circus and Big Ben. One of the biggest takeaways that I noticed is that I began to take every opportunity to experience new things. I made it a goal to have a different ethnic food every night. Even if I wasn’t traveling to places all over the world, I made sure I could do that with food. I ate everything from an English Breakfast Italian to Thai to Turkish food. McDonalds in the UK is also better, in my opinion. This experience was my first time out of the country. Having sisters with me as well as getting to see what my life after college could be in my dream career is something I will never forget. Always take an opportunity and a leap of faith!

everlasting

Why these members are looking forward to a sisterhood everlasting in Kansas City.

ERIN

DONEGAN, BΣ, Greater Kansas City Alumnae Chapter President and Region 4 Social Responsibility Leader

1. What is your favorite convention memory? I would say the Virginia Beach Convention as a whole. I

met so many wonderful women that year and it was the start to many friendships from around the country I still have today. We also shared our Girls On The Run (GOTR) partnership with the sorority. If I had to pick one memory, it was meeting Molly Barker the founder of GOTR at that convention as many things we talked about still resonate in my life.

2. Why are you excited to welcome so many sisters to Kansas City for our 53rd national convention & leadership conference? Kansas City is one of the most laid back cities. We have a little bit of everything here: great local

music, food, history and sports. The people are great. It's also the center of several Alpha Sigma Alpha chapters with a long historymany 100 plus year chapters, volunteers and past national officers. I can't wait to share my home city with everyone!

3. What is a piece of advice you have for someone coming to convention for the first time?

ENGAGE with sisters from different chapters and parts of the country. Don't be shy and sit with different people throughout the event. We have such a diverse and wonderful group of women you can make amazing connections.

1. What are you most looking forward to about attending your first national convention & leadership conference? What excites me the most about attending the convention is the opportunity to connect with fellow AΣA members from across the country. I'm eager to share experiences, gain insights and foster meaningful connections that will undoubtedly contribute to my personal and leadership growth.

2. Why do you think this experience will be a memorable one for you? I believe this experience will be memorable for me because

it marks a significant milestone in my journey within the sorority. The convention provides a unique platform to absorb knowledge from leaders, participate in workshops and embrace the sense of unity that defines our sorority sisterhood and I am so excited to attend.

3. Have you ever been to Kansas City before? Do you have any plans to sight see while you are there? This will be my first visit to Kansas City, and I don't have specific sightseeing plans yet, but I'm looking forward to discovering what Kansas City has to offer.

4. Have you started to think about how you will bring back what you have learned and how you will

share that with the rest of your chapter sisters? I want to keep a journal of my experience at this conference and am looking forward to sharing it with my chapter. After gaining more knowledge and skills at this conference I hope to implement it within my leadership role as president and contribute to the success of our chapter.

LISA ARGENTO BOYER, ΕΝ, Philadelphia Suburban West Alumnae Chapter President and Region 12 Advisory Board Liaison

1. What is your favorite convention memory? My first convention. I wanted to meet Sidney Allen since Panhellenic was dear to my heart. When my chapter sister JRae and I went to introduce ourselves she was so gracious and asked us to sit and we had a great conversation. A close second was watching Chayna Wilson

joining national council since she and I have been close for years and it brought tears of joy to my eyes.

2. What is a piece of advice you have for someone coming to convention for the first time? Soak it in. Don’t spend all your time with people you know. Meet new people and make connections.

3. What do you think makes the convention so memorable and fun? Convention is always fun to catch up with people. It’s memorable and amazing to enjoy the programming. Last convention

the programming was great and I enjoyed reading the book we received and have shared it with others. Each time I share it or discuss it I am reminded of convention and the fabulous women I get to be in the presence of during that time.

who give back to Alpha Sigma Alpha and help further the Sorority vision to elevate the influence of women in the world.

847

TOTAL VOLUNTEER POSITIONS FILLED

513 LOCAL VOLUNTEERS

89 EVENT SUPPORT VOLUNTEERS

69 REGION VOLUNTEERS

113 NATIONAL VOLUNTEERS

39

15 SORORITY HOUSING CORPORATION VOLUNTEERS

SHARON MARLIN MANZO, BS

Volunteer position: Faculty Advisor for Beta Pi Chapter at Concord University, WV

Time volunteering: 46 years on and off

Why I volunteer:

“I’ve been active with Beta Pi off and on since 1978. I’m a Beta Sigma (Missouri State University) by initiation but Beta Pi by heart. I volunteer because these women keep me young and help me with technology. I am blessed to be both a sister and “grandma” to a wonderful group of collegians.”

CINDI MILLS PLACE, DS

Volunteer position:

Region 8 Finance Leader

Time volunteering: 3 years

Why I volunteer:

“As a charter member of Delta Sigma at Saginaw Valley State College (at that time we weren’t yet a university), finding a home with AΣA played such a big part in my final years at SVSC. Being able to give back to the organization which gave me wonderful memories and life-long friends has been a blessing in my life!“

STEPHANIE CUEMAN, NN

Volunteer position:

Academic Excellence

Coaching Team Leader

Time volunteering: 8 years

Why I volunteer:

“I volunteer to continue developing my professional skills and give back to the Sorority that gave me so much. I started learning to lead as a collegian and am able to continue my growth through Alpha Sigma Alpha.”

CASSI FURR, QR

Volunteer position: Region 6 Membership

Commitment Leader and Support & Safety Program Facilitator

Time volunteering: 5 years

Why I volunteer:

“I love volunteering for Alpha Sigma Alpha because it gives me a chance to give back to the organization that helped shape me as a collegian. Through AΣA, I developed leadership skills and confidence that I have used throughout my professional career. I love that I am able to help today’s collegians have a great sorority experience so they can grow into the best versions of themselves! I also love that volunteering gives me an opportunity to meet and work with sisters I wouldn't have met otherwise.”

Elevate & Influence

KATIE LEARY, EΘ, ALUMNA

I have been lucky to be able to have traveled to 27 countries and 30 states in my life. Most of my international travel didn’t start until after college. My parents started my family with trips throughout the east coast while growing up. I have been able to explore many historical places in Europe, see the beauty of SE Asia and enjoy the wonders of Central America. On my first European trip, I roomed with one of my sorority sisters which made it such a memorable experience. Through my giving back to my local community through my charity work and as Iota Eta Chapter advisor, I can share my experiences and ideas I have seen around the world. To me the values of growth and relationships are gained through the people and memories you make when traveling. I have been able to share meals with new local friends, play with rescued elephants (my favorite), learn about different cultures and religions, grow my history knowledge and continue my love of learning.

My father was a big influence on my thirst for knowledge. Sitting down to talk to locals and other travelers to share your stories will allow you to grow as a person and make you fall in love with travel more throughout your life.

I am also an adventurous traveler, so I am not afraid to try white water rafting, swimming with stingrays, swinging over and rappelling down a waterfall, or climbing to the top of the Duomo in Florence. My next goal is to add 4 more states this year and 2-3 more countries next year!

I don’t think I will ever stop traveling as it has become such a passion in my life and something I love to share with others.

Alpha Sigma Alpha's vision is to elevate the influence of women in the world. In each issue of the Phoenix Magazine, members will be featured who are living Alpha Sigma Alpha's vision, purpose and values in their everyday lives.

SAM PIRKEL, ΦΦ, COLLEGIAN

In October of 2022, I found out that I was going to be deployed to Djibouti, Africa in December of 2023. So this did give me some time to prepare, but in all reality, no amount of time could prepare you for being away from everything you know for a year of your life.

I left for Djibouti, Africa in February of 2023 and returned home in November of 2023 but was gone for about a year in whole with all of the other training that had to be completed. I served as a 68W Combat Medic. This means I would treat wounds and any other illnesses that came through the TMC (troop medical center). This deployment gave me a lot of opportunities to embrace our core values and for service. For example, a group of us had the opportunity to go into town every Sunday and volunteered teaching the local Djiboutian children English at their school. Yes, this was a volunteer experience, but I couldn’t imagine how much I was going to learn from these kids. They value everything in their lives and do not take a single thing for granted. We were able to help these kids learn a foreign language, plus give them simple necessities for life that many were not able to get. We brought water and snacks every Sunday, because many kids didn’t get these necessities unless they were at school. Being able to help as much as we could was one of the most amazing and rewarding things that I have ever done. Even though none of these kids were fluent in English and conversation was very minimal, we built amazing relationships. These kids knew our names and were so excited to see us every week.

Now that I am home and reflecting on my experiences overseas, I see how many of Alpha Sigma Alpha’s core values impacted my everyday life there. I built relationships with other service members from other branches and states, the locals and my home unit. I learned so much from those local kids like the enjoyment of life and being grateful. I got to see how much of an impact that being generous and giving my time to someone else can truly make a difference. Without my sisters back here at home, transitioning from military life to civilian life would be so much more difficult. The entire time I was gone, I knew that they were waiting for me back at home. They have supported me through the entire deployment and since the moment they found out I was serving our country. And I couldn’t be more grateful.

HOW TO GET THE TRIP OUT OF THE GROUP CHAT… AND HOW

TO GO

SOLO IF IT DOESN’T!

BY AMANDA FAULKENBERG

Picture this: you and your three best friends are dreaming about taking a trip to the beach; the group chat notifications are going nonstop with ideas and excitement. Despite the buzz, it never seems to go anywhere, and every few weeks another friend will say, “What about that girls’ trip?” Sound familiar?

As a part-time professional traveler, I am that friend who is always ready to hop in the car or book the flight. It isn’t always as easy for the other women in my group chat, which is why I’ve learned a few tricks to make it easier for my friends to agree to a trip. Traveling with friends can be a way to catch up on life without daily distractions and a relaxing way to experience new adventures together.

Getting from that initial conversation to under an umbrella on a beach can seem like an impossible task when you consider the schedules and responsibilities of everyone included. There are a few ways to make it easier. If you are serious about taking that trip, there are three things you can do to help your friends commit to joining you: make a plan, meet folks where they are and give deadlines.

Make a plan

It is much easier for a group to make a decision when the options have been narrowed down. Take some time to put

together a plan for the trip, including some dates, where to stay, logistics for traveling there, and a budget. Your friends are much more likely to be ready to say yes when they see all of the hard work you put into the details – and knowing that someone they trust has already thought it through.

Maybe you are not typically the planner of the group and that is fine. You can use this as an opportunity to share how excited you are at the prospect of getting everyone to the beach (or mountains, or city, or wherever it is that you are headed). There are endless ideas to be found on Pinterest and some bloggers even specialize in helping you plan girls’ trips. If you have no idea where to start, you can work with a travel advisor to put together an itinerary that is sure to wow your friends.

Meet folks where they are

While seven days at a Caribbean all-inclusive might sound delightful to some, it may be completely out of the question for others. It is important to take into account everyone’s schedules, responsibilities and budget when you are working to get them to agree to join you on a trip.

Some of your friends may work an irregular schedule, while some might need to arrange child or pet care while they are gone. You are in a unique position because you likely know these details in advance and can consider them in your planning.

Amanda Faulkenberg is an adventure enthusiast, blogger, and travel advisor. She strives to encourage her readers to seek experiences that are meaningful to them and showcase how you can see the world while working a 9-5 job. Amanda shares her travels on her blog www.amandaathomeandabroad.com and on Instagram @amandaathomeandabroad. She is a member of Alpha Chi Omega (Alpha Chapter) and currently serves as the chief administrative officer for the National Panhellenic Conference.

Another important thing to consider is the budget. Although it can be hard to guess what another person is willing to spend on travel, you can do your best to be mindful of the total cost when you start to put together ideas.

Give deadlines

This one might be the most difficult, but it is one of the more effective ways of encouraging your friends to really consider and make a decision on taking the trip. Prices change, ideal travel seasons change and individual’s schedules change – so when you share all of the great information you put together for your girls’ trip, tell them that it needs to be booked by a certain date. Narrowing down the time they have to come to a decision keeps the trip from lingering as hypothetical and ending up back where the idea started.

It may take some patience and persistence to get through these three steps, but the experience you will have will be worth it. It took me years to finally get one trip out of the group chat and it turned out to be one of my favorite adventures of all time.

What happens if you present your friends with a carefully planned itinerary, sample budget, and timeline…but it still falls through? Don’t let that stop you!

Solo travel is not a new concept, but it is definitely gaining in popularity. As travel becomes more accessible and online research more available, the unknowns that would have previously kept women from traveling to a destination alone have decreased. Since 2021, I have visited 12 states and 8 countries completely on my own, and I learn something about myself each time. It all started because I really wanted to go to Scotland, but couldn’t find someone to go with me. I took the plunge and did an 11-day road trip through the Highlands completely solo and it was one of the best decisions I have ever made.

If you have never done it, it may seem a little daunting to pack up and go on vacation by yourself. It gets easier with practice though, and with a few helpful tips, you will be a confident solo traveler in no time. Traveling solo doesn’t have to be grand European adventures (although it certainly can be). A weekend trip to a nearby lake house on your own is still solo travel.

Start small and stick with what you know

The biggest step to take is the first one. If you are curious about solo travel, you can start as small as you want. Try eating out alone or going to a museum or sporting even on your own. Or, if you have a place you have vacationed frequently with friends or family, try to visit on your own and see if you still feel comfortable. If you like it, great –go bigger next time!

If you try those small steps and still feel anxious, think about what specifically made you nervous. Was it the concern of unexpected situations or decisions that need to be made? Was it a fear that people were staring at you because you were alone? Those were fears I had when I first started traveling alone, but quickly learned that I am more capable than I gave myself credit for and also that people really don’t care if you are out to eat by yourself. Chances are they didn’t even notice.

Travel solo, but not alone

One way to not miss out on travel opportunities because you don’t have anyone to go with you, but to also not have to handle everything completely on your own, is to travel with a group. There are numerous travel companies that offer group trips for all kinds of demographics and niches. Rising with the popularity of solo travel, group trips specifically for women are also increasing in availability. One quick Google search can land you dozens of leads on companies that specialize in the destination or experience you are looking for.

Group travel is a great way to dip your toes into traveling solo. Many companies offer the option to have a single room, while doing all of the excursions and adventures with other travelers. Or if you are up for it, get paired with a roommate you don’t know and make a new friend. I have traveled to Egypt, Denmark, the Faroe Islands and Iceland with womenonly tours and each time been paired with a roommate I didn’t know until we arrived in the country.

So, the next time your friend texts you, “What about that girls’ trip?” you can say, “I’ve actually been thinking a lot about that, and here’s what I propose…” And if it doesn’t work out, don’t wait on them – head out on that solo adventure!

WOMEN OF

INFLUENCE a look back

BY BARB WILLIAMSON, EE, HISTORY PROJECT TEAM LEADER

An early leader of AΣA penned how fortunate women were to be alive at that time; when they were able to get an education and have opportunities available to them. That was more than100 years ago, before women had the right to vote! Society has been opening opportunities for women ever since, but the struggle for equality has continued. AΣA women have been intimately connected to that fight, working to make the world a better place.

Over the years members have been featured in the Phoenix magazine for their courage in the workplace and sacrifices they made in their chosen fields. Let’s revisit a couple of these women.

Corinne (Palmerton) Kuhn Crosby

Corinne (Palmerton) Kuhn Crosby, ΠΠ, was featured in the winter 1944 Phoenix because she put her dream of teaching art after graduation on hold to enter the field of aeronautical engineering. America needed draftsmen/women to create airplanes during WWII. After almost a year of training, Corinne was employed as a draftswoman at American Sterilizer and Autoclave Engineers. She went on to teach design and

drafting at Tech Memorial and Ft. LeBoeuf. Her class of drafting students at McDowell High School consisted mostly of boys who weren’t used to a female teacher in a maledominated field and who struggled in academic classes. Corinne had her hands full, but she loved teaching them. Eventually she became an art teacher at Erie Day School, a private K-12 school that allowed her to teach any type of art she wanted at any grade level. Dream achieved!

Corinne raised a family with her husband, taught school and was president of the PTA at her daughter’s school. She became active in the American Association of University Women (AAUW), serving as president of the Erie branch 1988-89. She led a program in the AAUW to save the Erie Public Library which was housed in an old mansion. She was not one to sit idly!

Pictured above: Corinne and her husband George Kuhn.

Corinne was involved in teaching lowimpact exercising for older women at the Salvation Army Senior Center. Corinne met her second husband at the senior center at a poetry reading event. She also painted and taught art to adults in Erie.

Mary Don (Hege) Shumaker

Mary Don (Hege) Shumaker, ΔΛ, was initially featured in the spring 1983 Phoenix as one of only 900 clinical perfusionists in the United States. (A clinical perfusionist is a certified medical technician responsible for extracorporeal oxygenation of the blood during open-heart surgery and for the operation and maintenance of equipment, such as a heart-lung machine, controlling it.) Mary Don graduated from Virginia Polytechnic Institute (now Virginia Tech) in 1973, majoring in health and physical education and later earned a master’s degree in exercise physiology.

Much of the equipment now has safety measures in place; but, when Mary Don started her career, one mistake by the perfusionist could kill a patient.

“Initially I thought I’d teach and coach,” explained Shumaker. “I was also interested in cardiac rehabilitation.” She took a class in biomedical engineering with a friend and learned about the heart and lung machine. The professor of the class had invented a machine for babies’ lungs that had not fully developed and she thought the field was fascinating. Several years later that friend from class became a perfusionist and called Mary Don about applying to perfusionist school. He told her they needed more people in the field. She applied and was one of four people accepted into the program. At the time, men outnumbered women in the field approximately 70 to 30.

Working as a clinical perfusionist was rewarding for her. The advances in heart and lung surgical technologies were incredible throughout her career.

“We didn’t have stents when I started in the operating room. We just had cardiac surgery (open heart) or balloon angioplasties, but we had to be ready with perfusion in the O.R. if balloons didn’t work.”

Advancements in procedures and technology now use perfusionists to heat chemo and pump it into the belly for abdominal cancer. The machine can also clean blood and pump it back into a patient.

“There have been amazing advances! Now we have LVADs (left ventricular assist devices) for people who are waiting on a heart transplant. They are half-metal and half-heart.”

Since retirement her schedule is a lot more flexible. “Even in retirement,” she laughed, “headhunters are calling with insane amounts of money.” Two amazing women whose career paths took them on an unexpected journey. Two examples of women seeing a need and answering the call. Two women who elevated the influence of women in the world.

Mary in the Operating Room (OR) during an operation.

Mary Don (left) poses with another perfusionist in matching t-shirts.

STRENGTHEN SORORITY ASSETS

Position Alpha Sigma Alpha for ongoing

Optimize volunteer and staff resources to execute initiatives

Integrate systems for operational

Dreaming of Alpha Sigma’s Alpha Vibrant Future

BY NATIONAL PRESIDENT AMBER SHAVERDI HUSTON, HH

AND ATIONAL REACH

Alpha’s compelling case

orities especially for those been marginalized pathways to join beyond the opportunities to maximize owth

As a national council, we recognize that the strategic plan is not what drives organizational pride or brings sisters together. It is, however, the roadmap that guides the national sorority staff and volunteers. I love sports, so I think about the strategic plan as the strategy for the season and then the national headquarters staff takes the goals and then creates a playbook. Executive Director Krystal Slivinski draws up the plays and puts them into motion, sequencing the work and identifying who and where to place Alpha Sigma Alpha’s resources. It is a true example of a shared work and partnership. The 2022-24 plan was created at a time when our world and higher education was experiencing significant change.

future for members and the communities they serve.

When we launched the 202224 strategic plan, we had set out to embark on a journey of transformation and growth. We set ambitious goals to elevate the sorority’s impact and be ready for the challenges ahead.

Alpha Sigma Alpha is rooted in friendship, developing women who are known for their character and concern for others. We have strived to evolve and innovate, constantly pushing boundaries to ensure a brighter

By pursuing these strategic goals and objectives, Alpha Sigma Alpha sought to not only articulate our compelling case for continued relevance and significance but also champion greater access to the sorority experience, research and strive to identify new pathways to join beyond the traditional model and invest in opportunities to maximize membership growth. I am proud to share we have made significant strides. However we are not, nor will we ever be, satisfied with our results. These strategic goals are ambitious, long-term and work we will constantly strive towards.

The 2022-24 strategic plan identified internal and external initiatives all with the intent to position Alpha Sigma Alpha

STRENGTHEN SORORITY ASSETS

Position Alpha Sigma Alpha for ongoing

Optimize volunteer and staff resources to execute initiatives

Integrate systems for operational

EXPAND ORGANIZATIONAL REACH

Champion access to sororities especially for those who have historically been marginalized

Implement new pathways to join beyond the traditional model

Invest in opportunities to maximize membership growth

ENHANCE MEMBER EXPERIENCE

Foster a culture of care

Cultivate an inclusive environment where members feel a sense of belonging

Increase the value of lifelong membership

to successfully handle the current and even more challenging times ahead. As we begin the transition from the 2022-24 strategic plan to the 2024-26 plan we are honing in on the core of Alpha Sigma Alpha- membership. For Alpha Sigma Alpha to flourish and thrive it is critical that we invest in the membership experience and support collegiate chapter recruitment. Our ambitious goals are driven by a reality from the changing environment within higher education: declining enrollment and the growing need for women to find authentic friendships. None of these can be realized without the involvement and hands-on action of volunteers and

members. For our beloved sorority the call to action is great, however we confidently believe our strategic plan will guide us towards a stronger position.

Through collective action and unwavering commitment, Alpha Sigma Alpha will continue to thrive towards our vision of elevating the influence of women.

I look forward to sharing more about our successes and revealing the new 2024-26 strategic plan this summer during our national convention & leadership conference.

Articulate Alpha Sigma Alpha’s compelling case

INTRODUCING THE 2024-26 NATIONAL COUNCIL SLATE

About the nominating committee

The nominating committee is appointed by the national president with approval from the national council and is directed to identify, interview and nominate candidates for Alpha Sigma Alpha’s national council. Members of the committee are:

Katie Barnett Ervin, HH, chairman

Suzanne Kilgannon, BI

Mary Kate Metzger, ZX

Nora Dietz-Kilen, ΘA

Illysa Schrager, ΘΓ

Briana Denton, A, collegiate representative

NATIONAL PRESIDENT

Jessica Bridwell Wright, ZΠ

Jessica Bridwell Wright is a founding member of Zeta Pi Chapter, which she served as a member of the installation committee, vice president of public relations & recruitment and chapter president. While in college, Jess was honored by her chapter as the member of the year for two consecutive years and was heavily involved in student government and student life. She holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing and an MBA from the University of Southern Colorado (now known as Colorado State University-Pueblo).

After graduation, Jess traveled as a leadership consultant and then moved to Kansas City, where she helped create the Lawrence, KS Alumnae Chapter and later was active in the Greater Kansas City Alumnae Chapter. After moving to Albuquerque, she was the Alpha Sigma Alpha delegate and treasurer for the Albuquerque Metro Area Panhellenic.

A volunteer since 2001, Jess has the served the Sorority in many roles including Advantage coaching team leader, Zeta Zeta recruitment and standards advisor, and colony/ chapter development coordinator. She has presented at The Academy and District Day, facilitated at multiple Emma Coleman Frost Leadership Development Institutes, participated in numerous extension presentations and welcomed new chapters across the country as part of installation teams. Jess was a member of the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation Board of Trustees from 2004 to 2013, serving as chairman from 2008 to 2011. Jess was elected to national council in 2014 and has served as a vice president of membership and currently as a vice president.

Professionally, Jess is the CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities of New Mexico. She resides in Albuquerque, NM, with her wife, Kat, their children, Jakob and Karter, and a menagerie of cats and dogs.

VICE PRESIDENT

Nicole Millar Allbee, ZT

Nicole Millar Allbee joined the Zeta Tau Chapter at Grand Valley State University (GVSU) where she held leadership positions in the chapter as well as multiple other student organizations. She holds a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and an M.A. in Higher Education and Student Affairs Leadership, both from Western Michigan University. Her B.A. from GVSU is in Psychology.

VICE PRESIDENT

Kathy Wilson Burke, NN

Katharine “Kathy” served her collegiate chapter at Drexel University, PA, as song chairman, president and was Panhellenic president. She graduated in 1979 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Kathy earned an MBA from University of Maryland with a concentration in information systems.

Nicole traveled as a leadership consultant upon graduation and has been volunteering for the sorority ever since. She served as the social responsibility advisor for the Zeta Tau Chapter and has held several national volunteer roles including volunteer recruitment and placement team member, risk management and standards coaching team member, risk management project team leader and region 5 facilitator. She has presented at District Day and The Academy, has assisted with extension efforts, and has worked with fraternal and higher education partners nationwide to facilitate large and small group programming for a variety of participants. Nicole has served on national council as a vice preisdent since 2022.

Nicole currently works as the Chief of Staff for the Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine. She loves spending time outdoors with her wife, Heather, their three daughters, Zoe, Lily, and Marlie, and two dogs, Porter and Sirius.

Kathy was a member of the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation Board of Trustees from 2010 to 2019, serving as Treasurer 2013 to 2019. She has presented at The Academy, facilitated at multiple Emma Coleman Frost Leadership Development Institutes, and participated in various task forces and committees. She also served the Sorority as a nominating committee member in 2009-10. She served as president of the Washington, D.C. Alumnae Chapter and is currently a member of the Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter. Kathy has served on national council as a vice president and treasurer since 2019.

Professionally, Kathy recently retired as the chief operating officer and VP, Finance at CureSearch for Children’s Cancer, a national nonprofit which funds pediatric cancer research. She volunteers as a reading tutor in a local elementary school, sings in the choir, and is treasurer for her church. She resides in Centreville, VA with her cats Pearl and Steel.

In addition to the slated candidates, the following have been nominated:

For National President: Amber Shaverdi Huston, HH

For Vice President: Julie Wiley Ramsey, A, Jessica Bridwell Wright, ZΠ

Bios can be found online at tinyurl.com/ASA-NC-slate-and-nominations. More information regarding elections will be sent to delegates prior to the national convention & leadership conference where elections will occur this summer.

VICE PRESIDENT

Kathryn Wolfington Harth, EE

Kathryn “Kat” Wolfington Harth graduated magna cum laude from Emporia State University with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, and from the University of Colorado Denver with a master’s degree in informational and learning technologies. Kathryn served the Epsilon Epsilon Chapter as secretary, housing manager and president and was involved in many campus organizations. Her leadership was recognized through the Ruth Schillenger Outstanding Sorority Woman of the Year Award, the A Cappella Choir Outstanding Member Service Award, and the Rho Lambda Leadership Award. As an alumna, she has been a member in the Lawrence, KS; Denver, CO; and Topeka, KS, Alumnae Chapters.

Kat has volunteered for the Sorority in a variety of roles, serving as a membership advisor, district meeting coordinator, National Convention & Leadership Conference team leader, district facilitator, facilitator at the Emma Coleman Frost Leadership Development Institute and presenter at District Day and The Academy. She has served as a delegate at ten National Convention & Leadership Conferences and in 2008 was a recipient of the Agape Award. Kat has served on national council since 2014.

Professionally, Kat is the communications coordinator at IDEA, an online higher education alliance of 20 universities who collaborate to offer online graduate programs together. She volunteers at Kansas State University as the coordinator of a free noontime yoga program for faculty, staff and students, and as an advisor for the sophomore honor society, Silver Key. She lives in Manhattan, Kansas, with her husband Cory, and their cat Elvira, and dog Honey.

VICE PRESIDENT

Rebecca Noell, ZT

Rebecca Noell joined the Zeta Tau Chapter at Grand Valley State University (GVSU) where she held leadership positions in the chapter and in other student organizations. She graduated in 2016 with her degree in Women’s Studies and Sociology. She completed the Higher Education Student Affairs Master's program along with an academic advising certification at Eastern Michigan University. She is currently working on her doctorate in organizational leadership at Pepperdine University.

Since graduation, Rebecca has facilitated at Emma Coleman Frost Leadership Development Institutes, as well as other leadership conferences for various fraternities and sororities and the National Panhellenic Conference. She has served as the finance leader and social responsibility leader for region 8 and has served as a member of the national volunteer culture & structure study team for Alpha Sigma Alpha. She serves as an area advisor for the National Panhellenic Conference for both Texas and Michigan schools. Rebecca currently sits on the board for the National Association of Student Affairs Professionals Region IV-E, the Junior League of Ann Arbor, the Grand Valley State Alumni Association and the Detroit Alumnae Panhellenic Association.

Professionally, Rebecca works in higher education and is a dedicated student affairs professional working at the University of Michigan - Ann Arbor. Rebecca lives in Ann Arbor with her American Staffy, Wilbur, and loves to read, travel and spend time with her friends and family.

VICE

PRESIDENT

Chayna Wilson, EM

Chayna Wilson is a founding sister of the Epsilon Mu Chapter at Trenton State College (now known as The College of New Jersey) where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Geoscience. She then attained her master’s degree in Occupational Safety, Industrial Hygiene from the New Jersey Institute of Technology. After graduation, she served as Epsilon Mu’s chapter advisor and as province director for eastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

She has served as a part of the recruitment coaching team, advisory board liaison, individual awards team leader, and Foundation ambassador. Most recently, Chayna has served as the region 11 facilitator. She has presented at The Academy and District Day, facilitated at multiple Emma Coleman Frost Leadership Development Institutes, participated in several extension presentations, and welcomed new chapters on the east coast as part of installation teams. She is a member of the Philly Metro and Philadelphia Suburban West Alumnae Chapters. In 2018, Chayna received the sorority’s Agape Award. Chayna has served on national council since 2022.

Professionally, Chayna works in the Health and Safety department as a senior industrial hygienist for Clean Harbors Environmental Services where she has been employed for 30 years. She is a founding member and leader of two employee resource groups, one focused on women and the other focused on Black employees.

She is a member, trustee, and the head choir directress of the Mt. Olivet Baptist Church. Chayna is a member of the Central New Jersey Alumnae Panhellenic Association where she serves as Scholarship Chair and is a founding board member and vocalist with the Essence of Harmony Choral Society. Chayna lives in Hightstown, NJ, with her mom and large collection of Disney ears.

VICE PRESIDENT

Nikkia Young, ΘB

Nikkia Young joined Theta Beta at Roanoke College in the spring semester of 2010 and graduated in 2013 with bachelor’s degrees in music and sociology. During her time at Roanoke College, she served as the parliamentarian and standards chairman of her chapter. She was also a member of the choir, codirector of Mainstreet Acapella and a member of the Order of Omega. As an alumna, Nikkia has served as a nominating committee member, district communications liaison, social responsibility leader and region facilitator. She also has frequently volunteered at The Academy, District Days, Emma Coleman Frost Leadership Development Institutes and extension visits. While supporting and volunteering for Alpha Sigma Alpha, Nikkia has developed relationships with many sisters who have become close personal friends across the country and she is regularly reminded of the power of women. She truly could not imagine her life without the sisterhood she has found in Alpha Sigma Alpha.

Professionally, she works for a quasi-governmental agency as a FinOps Product Owner where she monitors and manages cloud costs. Nikkia is an avid run coach and runner who enjoys helping people reach distances they never imagined they could. Nikkia resides in Richmond, VA where she resides with her beloved beagle mix Ranger. Currently, she is a member of the Richmond Alumnae Chapter, president of the Richmond Road Runners Club, a Game Changers Mentor and is a board member for Girls on the Run Greater Richmond.

Alpha Sigma Alpha

FOUNDA TION

DONOR IMPACT REPORT

Alpha Sigma Alpha members and Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation donors made a $5.4 MILLION difference through service and charitable giving in the last biennium. Learn more about how donors are elevating the influence of women in the world in the 2021-23 Donor Impact Report. Find the report on the Foundation portion of www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org.

HONOR A SISTER

Honor a sister with a $5 donation through the Foundation’s honor board for the 2024 National Convention & Leadership Conference in Kansas City, MO. All honoree names will be displayed onsite and those honored by July 1 will appear on the virtual honor board. Honorees in attendance at the event will receive a sticker to place on their name badge. Those not in attendance will receive notification of the honor if the gift is made by July 1. Make your gift to let a sister know you are thinking of her while paying it forward to future members! Honor a sister today!

FROM THE archives

Throughout Alpha Sigma Alpha’s history, the Sorority has provided countless opportunities for members to travel and celebrate our sisterhood. From conventions, leadership schools, state days, province days, district days, officer academies, Academy events, receptions and more, Alpha Sigma Alpha’s could always find an excuse to travel. The weekend of August 19-21, 1966 provided an educational first for members of eleven midwestern collegiate chapters at the pilot Alpha Sigma Alpha Leadership Training School held on the campus of Southwestern Missouri State College (now Missouri State University) in Springfield, MO. Pictured are Leadership Training School delegates from Alpha Beta Chapter at Northeast Missouri State Teachers College (now Truman State University).

Chapter News & Events

1. Chicago Metro Alumnae Chapter

The chapter celebrated sisterhood during their February meeting at an Italian Pizza Kitchen followed by a wine tasting & tour of Lynfred Winery.

2. Buffalo Alumnae Chapter

The chapter hosted a “Meet & Eat” charcuterie class with local sisters.

3. Charlotte NC Alumnae Chapter:

Members gathered together for a fun night during their Annual Mardi Gras Dinner.

4. Delta Gamma, West Chester University, PA: Delta Gamma Chapter celebrated their 9 year anniversary with a brunch at Past National President Kelly Beck’s house.

5. Delta Nu-B Alumnae, Kettering University, MI: Alumnae gathered together in Michigan for a weekend to catch up and spend time with each other.

6. Tampa Bay Alumnae Chapter:

The chapter had a fun craft night to create affirmation cards for some of the collegiate chapters.

7. Delta Chi, Bloomsburg University, PA:

Chapter sisters volunteered during the Girls on the Run 5K. The members participated in different stations such as, bedazzling bibs, coloring their hair and even gave all of the runners metals after they finished the race.

Pictured: Alexandra Garrison, Alyssa Seiple, Mercedes Santos, Lauren Mounce, Madison Nestor, Sarah Stallard, Katie Tomasulo, Anna Fulginiti.

8. Delta Iota, University of Delaware: Gabriela Porco and Jameson Susi met up in New York over winter break to spend time together.

9. Gamma Lambda, Loyola University, IL: Members Abigail Gigler, Michelle Wang, Kaylie McKinley, Natalie Suwinski, Rose Segadelli, Victoria Hoekstra and Olivia Radowska pose during the last day of formal recruitment.

10. Theta Epsilon, Schreiner University, TX: Chapter sisters gather together for a photo during the Fall 2023 photoshoot. This photoshoot allows the sisters time to bond as well as provides marketing material for upcoming recruitment.

Pictured: Paige Truss, Sierra Solis, Jessica Knetig, Kayla Kern, Brylee Torres, Makalayah Canales, Madasyn Medina, Ester Coleman.

Chapter News & Events

11. Theta Upsilon, Boise State University, ID:

Member’s had a booth at the most recent Girls on the Run 5K where they handed out hair ties and did some of the runners' hair. They had a great time meeting the strong girls and seeing how excited they were to accomplish the 5K.

12. Beta Mu, Henderson State University, AR:

Sisters Ellie Sutterfield and Felicity Frushour received their acceptance letters into the university’s nursing program.

13. Zeta Alpha, Missouri Southern State University:

Members visited a “Dress to Impress” event where they were able to obtain business casual clothes. This provides them with the opportunity to better themselves professionally by having a professional wardrobe.

14. Beta Nu, Murray State University, KY:

The chapter participated in the Western Kentucky Polar Plunge to support Special Olympics. Members plunged in the freezing lake and ran the 5K.

15. Theta Eta, Rogers State University, OK:

Sisters Brooke Munson and Olivia Neeley volunteered for a scholarship dinner fundraiser. This dinner helps to raise money for young women in Mayes County.

16. Greater Kansas City Alumnae: Members gathered at the home of Janet Hodges for brunch and made over 100 snack packs for the Kansas City Ronald McDonald House.

17. Gamma Iota, Rochester Institute of Technology, NY: Chapter sisters participated in the Polar Plunge to raise money for Special Olympics. Members took the plunge by running into Lake Ontario.

18. Delta Eta, DePaul University, IL: Members gather together for a photo after Star Sister Reveal.

19. Iota Eta, Arizona State University:

Miss Black AZ USA and alumna Caitlyn Kramer visited the chapter to discuss her platform “Putting the Care Back in Foster Care.” During this presentation she educated the chapter on the foster care process, answer questions about the challenges youths face in the foster care system and share her experience as a former Youth Support Specialist and Foster Care & Adoption Specialist.

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