ANCH R
THE
OF ALPHA SIGMA TAU Vol. 91 No. 1 Spring 2018
WOMEN IN STEM Valerie Patton George, Alpha Senior Chemist, Paul Mitchell
Colleen Cervantes, Beta Xi President, Chevron Lubricants + Other AΣTs in STEM
+ Collegiate STEM accomplishments
Letter from the President The Anchor is the official magazine of Alpha Sigma Tau Sorority and is published semiannually by the Alpha Sigma Tau National Sorority, 3334 Founders Road, Indianapolis, Indiana 46268. How to Receive The Anchor The Anchor is mailed to Alpha Sigma Tau volunteers, donors, and dues-paying alumnae members. Each issue of The Anchor is digitally available and accessible to everyone online at www.alphasigmatau.org. How to Update Your Name and Address Members can update their name, address, email, and other contact information by using AΣT Connect, the Sorority’s new web portal for members. To access AΣT Connect, visit www.alphasigmatau.org and click “Member Login” at the top of the page. Log in and click “My Information” to make changes, or use the “Sign Up” feature to get a user name and password. Non-members may call 317-613-7575 or e-mail us at headquarters@alphasigmatau.org. How to Contact The Anchor anchor@alphasigmatau.org 317-613-7575 How to Send a Letter to the Editor Do you have a comment about an article in this or any other issue of The Anchor? We want to hear from you! Letters to The Anchor can be sent to the Editor via email at anchor@alphasigmatau.org; regular mail at The Anchor, 3334 Founders Road; Indianapolis, IN 46268; or fax 317-613-7111. Please include your name, chapter, school, and year of Initiation. The Anchor reserves the right to publish any letter addressed to the Editor and edit for space and clarity. The Anchor Staff Editor: Kate Sweeney, Gamma Theta Associate Editor: Tara Walker Gross, Zeta Tau Alumnae Editor: Beverly Singel Molnar, Delta Collegiate Editors: Shanee Frazier, Gamma Rho; Leah Hollingsworth, Delta Upsilon; Kelli Purcell O'Brien, Delta Eta Staff Writers: J Joanna Barrett, Epsilon Epsilon; Cassie Cristea, Gamma Theta; Lindsay McDowall Davis, Gamma Mu; Cassie Helmer, Alpha; and Lauren Welch, Delta Psi Designers: Elizabeth Dawson, Phi and Michelle Markley, Alpha Tau
Dear Sisters, We are excited to share this latest issue of The Anchor, which celebrates the vital progress women have made in careers focused in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) - including many Alpha Sigma Taus. Collectively, the field’s brilliant practitioners have revolutionized our daily lives. Their work includes everything from communications, to medicine, to how we shop, travel, socialize, and do our jobs. While science has revolutionized the world as we know it, the number of women represented has been marginal. Today, women account for only one in four STEM professionals, despite being roughly half the workforce and holding more than half of college degrees in this country. However, the tide is turning. In recent years, the number of women pursuing and succeeding in STEM careers has grown considerably, both in total numbers and in the variety of STEM career paths. In addition to healthcare and the social sciences, women are increasingly emerging in engineering, computer science, aerospace, and other fields. The Alpha Sigma Taus featured in this issue are such women. They, along with countless others, are making strides in STEM and charting the way for future generations of women. As National President, I am proud to call these women my Sisters and am forever grateful for how they represent our Sorority. But I am also inspired by them on a personal level. For those of you who don’t know, I have devoted myself to a career in science. I graduated from Cumberland University with a bachelor of science degree in biology and chemistry and then obtained my master of science degree in nursing from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing. Upon graduation, I began my career as an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, specializing in cardiovascular surgery. After twelve years of direct patient care, I decided to pursue a role in healthcare leadership. I now serve as the Director for Advanced Practice at the Vanderbilt Heart and Vascular Institute at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. In this role, I am responsible for overseeing 80 advanced practice providers as well as developing and implementing the strategic operations for
advanced practice. My educational background and career in science have provided me with many valuable skills, but the greatest has been the ability to hone my analytical and problemsolving expertise. As you can imagine, these abilities are essential in my clinical practice as well as in my leadership roles, whether in my career or serving as the National President. As I read this issue of The Anchor, I connected with the women featured in the magazine. I identify with the successes and challenges these Sisters face, and how being a member of Alpha Sigma Tau has also empowered us as women. I hope you enjoy this issue of The Anchor. In closing, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the upcoming 42nd National Convention, June 21-24 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I invite you to join me, other national leaders, Convention delegates, and others. We’ll be making impactful leadership decisions and celebrating our Sisterhood through awards, remembrance, and fun (such as the famous Yellow Rose Banquet)! I hope to see you there. You can learn more at astconvention.org
In Sisterhood,
Tiffany K. Street, Delta Mu
In This Issue: 4
Now Trending
6
Women In STEM
8
In The Air
10
Higher Calling
12
The Cosmetics Detective
13
Inspiring Young Minds
14
Navigating The Sea of Life
16
Q&A with Colleen Cervantes
18
National Foundation Update
28
Collegiate Chapter Updates
34
Alumnae Chapter Updates
38
Anchoring Thoughts
Read past issues of The Anchor online at www.alphasigmatau.org. Pictured Here (top to bottom): Gamma Rho, Delta Epsilon, Beta Mu, Epsilon Rho, AÎŁTs at the 2018 Association of Fraternal Leadership & Values Conference
Connect with Alpha Sigma Tau facebook.com/alphasigmatausorority
linkedin.com Group: Alpha Sigma Tau National Sorority
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President's Letter
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Now Trending:
#ASTBidDay #badgeday18 #alphasigmatau
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astlvc Last night our family lines got some new additions! Congrats to all our new members on getting their bigs #alphasigmatau #gogreek #biglittlereveal Jessica Lauren So happy to join this fantASTic group of girls #alphasigmatau
danielle devivo @daaniielldee Honeyyyyy I’m homeeeee #alphasigmatau
peanutbutterkellytime97 Darling it's better, wearing these letters #alphasigmatau #badgeday18 #SUAlphaTau
Heather Boothe @hc_booth Finally bought dangles for my badge, still missing a few but so happy to have these #alphasigmatau
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ast_csula Proud to wear our letters today, tomorrow and forever #alphasigmatau #badgeday18
Join the Conversation alliemills278 #Iwearabadge because I am a proud Sorority member. My Panhellenic sisters have become my colleagues, mentors, and friends. My life is forever changed for the better due to these women, especially the women of Alpha Sigma Tau. #badgeday18 #alphasigmatau
#AST
#Taus
#alphasigmatau
#ASTFoundersDay
#anchoredforlife
#ASTBidDay
#taulove
#ASTadvisor
#ASTreunite #AST118 #ASTilluminate
Women in STEM
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According to the Pew Research Center, STEM-related employment is one of the fastest growing sectors of the American workforce. Between 1990 and 2016, STEM jobs exploded by 79% - adding 9.7 million employees for a total of 17.3 million. This represents approximately 14% of the full-time U.S. workforce!
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The benefits of a STEM career are striking. Higher pay and greater employment opportunities are the norm. However, these benefits are still more scarce for women than they are for men. In almost all STEM fields, women are still woefully underrepresented – especially in aerospace (8%), engineering (14%), architecture (14%), software development (20%), computer science (25%), and the physical sciences (39%). The exceptions are the social sciences and health care, where women make up about 75% of practitioners and technicians. It is worth noting that strides are being made. More than ever before, women are earning degrees and pursuing successful careers in STEM. The remarkable women profiled on these pages are just a small sample of those who continue the legacy of female STEM pioneers who came before them. These women are setting the stage for future generations, and with progress, full equality can be achieved.
HIGHER SALARIES
Regardless of their gender, STEM workers earn more than non-STEM professionals with comparable education levels.
Only 25%
of STEM employees are female – despite holding half of all U.S. jobs.
(but)
Opportunities
ABOUND!
Women with STEM jobs earn 35% MORE than comparable women in non-STEM jobs.
And the number of available STEM jobs is set to increase 17% by 2024, while non-STEM employment will grow just 12%!
Economics and Statistics Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce. (2017). Women in STEM: 2017 update. tinyurl.com/ycqkcd4x. National Science Board. (2016). Science and engineering indicators, 2016. tinyurl.com/y98rq6lm. Pew Research Center. (2018). 7 facts about the STEM workforce. tinyurl.com/yanrsl64. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2017). Labor force statistics from the current population survey. tinyurl.com/ybcqflfb. vvSTEM occupations: past, present, and future. tinyurl.com/gq52zz2. U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey. (2017). Occupation by sex and median earnings in the past 12 months (in 2016 inflation-adjusted dollars) for the civilian employed population 16 years and over. tinyurl.com/j2348jk.
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Despite lingering inequality, the number of women in STEM has grown over the past two decades. This includes greater STEM employment for all racial and ethnic groups, especially Hispanic and Asian women.
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growth in DIVERSITY
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In the Air How One Sister Keeps You Safe when Flying By Lindsay McDowall Davis, Gamma Mu
For many people, aircraft safety is something they only think about during pre-flight instructions or when they see a tragedy on the news. However, for Allie Buss, Epsilon Alpha, aircraft safety and airworthiness are at the forefront of her mind every day. Allie is one of the many aerospace engineers for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) who make sure people are safe as they fly the friendly skies. Specifically, Allie focuses on crash worthiness and cabin safety. She works with several kinds of aircraft, including Cessnas, helicopters, and her current focus, the Boeing 737. Her job is to make sure that, if needed, passengers can get off the aircraft in 90 seconds or less. A graduate of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Arizona, Allie has always had her sights set high. "I knew I wanted to be an aerospace engineer since 5th grade,” she recalls. "One teacher had us do a project on Mars where we made a model of what
we thought a Mars base would look like. I remember thinking I wanted to go to space, too.” Airworthiness was not exactly where Allie thought she would end up, "But it is interesting,” she says. "I feel like I’m making a difference by helping to keep people safe.” Allie’s career has led her up and down the entire aisle of the aircraft. She previously worked in aircraft seat certification, where she designed seats that were tested with crash dummies to make sure that they met all FAA rules and regulations. She then worked on certifying galleys, seats, and other areas of the aircraft, ensuring the systems meshed for optimum function and safety. What Allie enjoys most about her career is the workload diversity – she isn’t stuck working in just one area of aircraft safety. She gets to see all different aspects of the aviation world, from helicopters to planes of all sizes. "The
Women in STEM coolest thing I’ve done so far is tour of the 737 factory,” she says excitedly. “We saw how they install the thermal insulation that provides fire protection, as well as many other aspects of airplane production and safety.”
Her Sorority experience taught her to speak up despite the age, position, or gender of the person to whom she is speaking. Once shy and quiet, Allie has grown to be engaging and direct about what she wants. "If there’s something new I want to try, I talk with my supervisor,” she
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Go with the flow and see where your career takes you.... Sometimes you may have to take a different route to get there, but it will work out in the end.
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explains. "They’re not going to know that I want to have new experiences unless I tell them.” Going forward, Allie hopes to become a leading technical expert in her field through independent consulting and by continuing her education. In lieu of pursuing a graduate degree, she takes a wide array of classes through the FAA, which keeps her career portfolio broadly applicable to a number of career paths. While her career may not be taking the path she originally envisioned, she is enjoying the ride. "Go with the flow and see where your career takes you,” she advises. "Sometimes you may have to take a different route to get there, but it will work out in the end."
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This was part of the reason Allie was drawn to Alpha Sigma Tau. Allie found a home in the sorority and gained experience being a leader. "I was shy and quiet before I joined,” she shares. "We were a smaller chapter so Sisters had to be involved, and that usually included serving on the executive committee. That made me come out of my shell and become better at engaging others.”
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Yet other types of diversity can be hard to find as an engineer – especially for women. "When I was in college, only 18% of the engineering students were female,” she recalls. “I walked into my freshman classes and they were mostly filled with males. It was intimidating.”
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Higher Calling
Gabriela Shirkey, left, Kristi Gdanetz MacCready, right
Two Sisters are Cutting a Path Through Grad School By Cassie Cristea, Gamma Theta STEM fields are complex and difficult – and predominantly male. So, what does it mean to be a woman in STEM? "I can wear pink and be brilliant,” says a confident Gabriela Shirkey, Beta Xi. “I didn’t wear pink as a child because it was considered too feminine and inferior… people would not take you seriously.”
that’s not empowering, I don’t know what is.” Gabriela is now a MS student in the Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Science and aims to join the PhD program next fall.
Gabriela has learned over time that preconceived notions about femininity shouldn’t limit a woman with determination and passion. With women being underrepresented, it can be difficult for young girls to see STEM as a place where they can belong. The women who are able to overcome those barriers are also able to create an environment that is not only comfortable for future women, but encouraging.
Kristi is a PhD student in the Department of Plant Biology with a focus on fungal ecology and plant pathology. She studied biology as an undergraduate student at Penn State Erie, The Behrend College. "After various classes, I discovered the aspects of biology that fascinated me the most – mycology (the study of fungi) and plant pathology,” Kristi recalls. "Working in these areas has been extremely rewarding. I’m developing techniques that can inform other scientists, and have applications that will benefit our food supply, which will improve all of our lives.”
In fact, overcoming expectations and defying those odds has been incredibly empowering for two Alpha Sigma Tau Sisters at Michigan State University in East Lansing – Gabriela and Kristi Gdanetz MacCready, Gamma Theta. "As women, we’re at a turning point in gender roles in science,” Gabriela explains. "We are sisters, mothers, and daughters, but we are also CEOs, engineers, and your boss. We are all these things, in fact, because we must be to succeed in this age. If
While Kristi has always been interested in biology, Gabriela’s story has a different beginning. Her current research involves data analytics, biophysical chemistry, and remote sensing; but as an undergraduate she focused on scientific and technical communication. "It might sound odd that I began college in such a different field,” she says. "I was lucky to discover my passion when exploring different classes and experiences.”
Women in STEM While their journeys have been different, there is something that unites them: both women are inspired by their ability to make a direct impact on others’ lives. Kristi has volunteered her time teaching girls and young women that they can do anything they want, and she inspires them to work in science. "I have even been inspired myself,” she says. "Once when I was volunteering at a science center, I overheard a man tell his two daughters that they could be a scientist just like me.”
It’s inspiring to see Gabriela and Kristi live out the mission of Alpha Sigma Tau through their studies. Despite the difficult schoolwork and the social barriers that can come with being a woman in a male dominated field, they pave the way as an example for future young women.
- Kristi Gdantez MacCready
"Good work ethic is vital,” Kristi echoes. “Grad school is hard work, so be sure you really want it before you pursue it.” Alpha Sigma Tau has been a support system for both women as they’ve pursued higher education in rigorous fields. For Gabriela, Alpha Sigma Tau taught her to have difficult conversations earlier rather than later. "Thanks to the Sorority, I realized that I was a people pleaser,” she recalls. "The sorority taught me to delegate more and to compromise when necessary.” Outside of graduate school, Kristi helped start the Lansing Area Alumnae Association. "sAs an undergraduate, Alpha Sigma Tau got me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to develop networking skills that have helped at scientific conferences and meetings,” Kristi says. "The alumnae association has given me even more Sisters to relax with when I’m not studying or focusing on academics.”
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As for Gabriela, she has some advice for women pursuing STEM studies and careers. “Don’t get caught up trying to look good on paper,” she counsels. "Focus on your work ethic and developing your skills.”
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Once when I was volunteering at a science center, I overheard a man tell his two daughters that they could study science just like me.
Women in STEM
The Cosmetics Detective Staying on Top of the Game By Joanna Barrett, Epsilon Epsilon “I've known since I was young that I was destined to be a scientist, so it was just a matter of finding the discipline of science that best suited me,” recalls Valerie Patton George, Alpha, who was recently promoted to Vice President of Research and Development for John Paul Mitchell Systems. “Biochemistry is the best of both chemistry and biology, my two loves.” T H E AN C H OR
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A resident of Santa Monica, California, Valerie joined Paul Mitchell in 2013 after her graduate coursework in chemistry. Classically trained in hair color and bleach chemistry, Valerie refers to herself as a “cosmetics detective” who finds troubleshooting formulas and research in the latest hair color science to be fun.
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“It never occurred to me that chemists have to make these products,” Valerie says. “I thought, ‘I can get paid to make lipstick for a living?’ From the first day of my job, I was hooked. This is a career where I can relish in being a consumer and a scientist!” Valerie doesn’t consider her job to be work. “I love having the opportunity to figure out how to help others feel more beautiful through the products my team creates,” she shares. “Being a cosmetic scientist is part of who I am, inside and out of work. I could talk about hair and products all day!” It helps that Paul Mitchell promotes a personal life balance for their employees. “I am very lucky to work for an organization that treats their employees like family,” she explains. “Paul Mitchell is an amazing place to be.” Despite her love for the industry and her company, it's been a challenge for Valerie, who doesn’t have a Ph.D., to gain respect in the industry as a scientist. “I always knew I wanted to be a scientist,” she says. “I'm not any less of one because I chose to enter the workforce instead of higher learning.” To help meet that challenge, Valerie has conducted thousands of hours of research to be at the top of her game. She is also heavily involved in her field as chair of the California Society of Cosmetic Chemists, and is an active member of the Committee on Scientific Affairs for the National Society of Cosmetic Chemists and the College of Arts & Sciences Advisory Board at her other alma mater, Kent State University. “Successful people do all the things unsuccessful people don't want to do,” Valerie says, quoting one of her company’s founders, John Paul DeJoria. “Young scientists should not be afraid to roll up their sleeves and go the extra mile. When you're constantly questioning, you're
constantly growing. Be observant, and treat everyone with respect; the people you work for now may be working for you one day.” Valerie is grateful for all the support she received, and continues to receive, in her career – including from fellow Alpha Sigma Taus. “The Sorority taught me lifelong values that transcend Sisterhood and permeate the ways in which we should be acting as citizens of mankind,” she says, drawing from the Sorority’s Creed. “These ideals not only allow me to give my all to my team, but allow me to focus on empowering others with the tools they need to be successful cosmetic chemists and make the world a better place.” Her core belief: “Our obligation is to stay true to ourselves and serve others.” Well said.
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Young scientists should not be afraid to roll up their sleeves and go the extra mile. When you're constantly questioning, you're constantly growing.
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chemistry. Marie found herself impacting young women through STEM, and empowering them in ways that hadn’t been possible before. “There were a few young women who, after taking my AP class, went on to college and then on to medical school,” Marie says proudly. “They were not only the first women in their families to graduate from high school, but also the first in their families to hold advanced degrees.”
I always felt like I had to prove myself. I give a lot of credit to Alpha Sigma Tau for giving me the skills to persevere, reach my goals, and become a great teacher.
Feeding Tommorow's Breakthroughs
When it comes to STEM careers, we usually think of the botanist in the field, the chemist in the lab, or the aerospace engineer tinkering with planes. We think less often of those who inspire STEM aspirants from an early age – something that is a calling for Marie Stott, Beta Delta. Marie is a chemistry teacher at La Salle College High School in Wyndmoor, Pennsylvania, and an alumna of Duquesne University, where she earned her bachelors and masters of science degrees. Throughout college, Marie hoped to work in a forensic lab, and that is where she first directed her efforts. However, through a position with Teach for America, Marie found that her true calling was not in the lab, but in the classroom. Teach for America empowered Marie to finish her second master’s degree while preparing her for a teaching position, and then enabled her to serve in a low-income school where good teachers are needed the most. “I was excited about the opportunity to teach chemistry to students who really needed me,” says Marie. “I had a passion for service, which I discovered during my time in Alpha Sigma Tau.” Marie’s first teaching position was at the underserved Anacostia Senior High School in Washington, DC, where she was the only chemistry teacher. There, she was asked to teach something that had never been taught at that school before: AP
Marie says that this bias has been a challenge for her throughout her career. “I always felt like I had to prove myself,” she says. “I give a lot of credit to Alpha Sigma Tau for giving me the skills to persevere, reach my goals, and become a great teacher.” As a collegian, she served in many positions including Panhellenic Delegate, Greek Week Chair, and Carnival Chair. “Each of these positions led me to develop leadership skills, time management skills, and the ability to work well with others,” she recalls, “all of which are necessary for teaching, and navigating whatever challenges get in your way.” So what’s Marie’s advice to pursuing a career in STEM? “Seek out as many research opportunities or internships as possible,” she counsels. “This way you will not only be marketable, but you will find your own niche. There are a million STEM career options out there, so it is important you find the right fit for you. That’s how I found my niche in teaching.” She also wholeheartedly believes in staying true to herself as an empowered woman. “As a woman, you should not be intimidated,” she stresses. “While that is said often, it bears repeating – if only because there are so many people saying the opposite. Women can do anything men can do, and you should have the confidence to do whatever your heart desires!”
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By Lauren Welch, Delta Psi
Marie now works at the Catholic all-boys La Salle College High School in Wyndmoor, Pennsylvania. In this role, she feels that she is still able to make an impact by showing young men that women can be whatever they want to be. In fact, Marie is the only woman in a 15-person science department at a school where the vast majority of teachers are men. “I am reminded of the gender discrepancies that still exist today,” she says. “My students’ mothers come up to me and say ‘I’ve never met a female chemistry teacher!’”
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Inspiring Young Minds
After serving two years with Teach for America, Marie moved to nearby E.L. Haynes Public Charter School, where she became the Science Department Chair, and was again the only chemistry teacher. This time, she partnered with a local private school to develop a STEM conference with a focus on empowering young girls to pursue STEM careers.
Women in STEM her mentor. She likens the mentor relationship to that of a Big Sister in sorority life. “Marine science is a field full of up-andcoming young women, and having that support network is very helpful.” After she finished her master’s degree, her path took an unexpected turn. A massive die-off of Zostera marina, or eelgrass, shocked the lower Chesapeake Bay. “When I started studying seagrasses, people didn’t think the flowering of seagrasses was all that important,” she explains. “But one of the reasons to support long-term data projects is to study these big events and learn their true impact.” As she got more involved with monitoring and restoration, Jessie’s research turned almost entirely to seed banks and how different species of seagrass could be maintained in their natural habitats. “It was a fluke that structured my whole Ph.D.,” she says. “People don’t realize that everything from climate to nutrient and weather cycles are impacted by marine science. I wish people knew how much marine science impacts their daily lives.” T H E AN C H OR
The ebb and flow of Jessie’s daily work is somewhat unique among STEM careers. Studying seagrasses can be a race against the clock: on days where she is working in the field, Jessie and her team are usually out along the coast by 8 a.m. They work quickly to collect water and seagrass samples for testing before the tide comes in. “People often ask how the seagrass is doing,” Jessie explains. “That’s a complicated question.” To help answer it, she evaluates nearby plants, environmental stressors, marine life, climate change, and sediment in the collected data and works to publish her findings.
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Navigating the Sea of Life
Achieving Success as a Marine Scientist By Cassie Helmer, Alpha It is an empowering moment - especially when you’re young - to realize you can make real change happen in the world. It was one of these moments that defined the path to success for Dr. Jessie Jarvis, Delta Rho, coastal plant ecologist and assistant professor in the Biology and Marine Biology Department at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. Growing up in Maryland, the culture of the Chesapeake Bay surrounded Jessie in daily life and in school. “I remember watching a video in middle school science class about the decline of sea grasses in the bay and how the change negatively affected the environment,” she says. “I remember thinking that I could help with that.” That small but powerful moment gave her purpose that guided her extensive education and eventual career. Becoming a successful marine scientist was not without its challenges. Early on, Jessie found herself surrounded by brilliant minds in graduate school at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science at the College of William and Mary. She also saw that women were often underrepresented in the faculty of STEM departments. However, she was fortunate enough to find a strong mentor who helped her and other students power through tough classes and periods of self-doubt. “As a woman in science, I didn’t feel discouraged from my dream,” she says, referring to the encouragement she received from
She has a couple pieces of advice for women and recent graduates pursuing STEM careers. The first involves personal life balance, especially for working mothers. “For me, family comes first,” she says. “But I’m at my second happiest in a seagrass boat, collecting samples.” She counts herself lucky to work for a university that stresses the importance of such a balance. “If women are driven out of the workforce because their lives lack balance, we all miss out,” she says. Jessie also suggests getting as much experience in the field as possible. “No matter what it is, get involved early,” she says, recalling how her high school environmental science club advisor, a vocal member of the Association for Women in Science, encouraged her to take trips to get a first-hand look at the field. “There is no one-size-fits-all approach to science,” Jessie cautions. “Don’t be afraid to ask for opportunities.” Jessie is grateful to others for where she is today.
Kaitlyn Gilmartin, Epsilon Psi Degree: psychology, currently working on a master's degree in clinical mental health counseling at Georgian Court University in New Jersey. Kaitlyn is a founding member of the Epsilon Psi Chapter and an inductee in the honor society for psychology, Psi Chi. After she completes her master’s degree, she will take the National Counseling Examination (NCE) to become a licensed practicing counselor in psychoanalysis and will pursue a Ph.D. in clinical psychology at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. As a collegian, she served as a senator for Rowan’s Applied Behavior Analysis Club and conducted a year-long senior research project on intimate partner violence (IPV) and its long-lasting impact on survivors, which she presented to peers and researchers during an on-campus psychology conference. She also currently works as a Behavioral Therapist, conducting early interventions for children with autism and other intellectual disabilities.
“Women in STEM are a force to be reckoned with, as we have more than what it takes to push the boundaries that have tried to limit us for so long.”
Sarah Heath, Zeta Tau
Major: chemical engineering
Major: computer science and cybersecurity
Brooke secured a competitive co-op (year-long internship) with Pfizer because of her 4.0 GPA and the fact that Pfizer knew she had the social skills to interact with a wide range of co-workers— because of her experiences in Alpha Sigma Tau.
Sarah was a Fellow at Carnegie Mellon University, where she learned more about cybersecurity. She learned how to use new security tools to enhance her testing, programming, and problem-solving skills and create and secure databases. She also wrote technical reports regarding her programs and gave presentations on recent cyberattacks.
“Computer science is a male-dominated field, and that can definitely be intimidating at times. Therefore, it is imperative that we support more women going into this field. Women empowering other women is incredibly important to me.”
Claire Schindler, Epsilon Alpha Profession: pilot and flight instructor
Logan Meyer, Psi Degrees earned: a bachelor's degree in chemistry, a master's degree in biochemistry, and just started medical school at the University of South Florida Logan aspires to become a pediatric intensive care physician, helping children take advantage of every opportunity and giving them the chance to achieve optimum health to pursue their passions in life.
Claire started flying lessons when she was 16 and earned her Private Pilot's License right after her high school graduation. Today, she flies for Chalk 2 in Apple Valley, California. Chalk 2 provides a chase plane to escort military unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) through public airspace. Her job as a Chase Pilot is to follow the UAV throughout its flight in formation from takeoff to landing. Chase Pilots must be comfortable enough to fly close to the UAV to help spot any conflicting traffic and any possible problems the UAV may have while in flight. She is also a part-time flight instructor, training new Chase Pilots.
“I grew up near Washington, D.C. and my dad would take me to the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, where I learned about Amelia Earhart and saw that women could fly too. The percentage of female pilots in the United States is 6%. I don't know if I would have ever considered flying if I hadn't known about Amelia Earhart. Just seeing another woman pursuing something she was so passionate about, despite being one of the only women to do so, really boosted my confidence. I think women should go after what they are passionate about, regardless of stereotypes, and women who are already there should continue to be mentors to other women.”
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“Women should consider a STEM career because employers in this male-dominated career path are not only searching for more women, but they are eager for women to put their unique intellect to use in solving the world’s everyday problems.”
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Brooke Hardy, Epsilon Kappa
Women in STEM
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Q&A with
Colleen Cervantes
Beta Xi and President, Chevron Lubricants
Tell me about your background. What drew you to this field? I grew up on a farm, and I have a degree in mechanical engineering from Michigan Technological University. I was good at math and science, but I still had to work hard for my degree. I like to solve problems. I like to work with people. I like to be challenged. I like to learn and I wanted to lead people. I figured: why not get a degree that had a lot of upside and still provided great flexibility to work in many different fields? The degree was not the end-point; it was the starting point to greater career opportunities.
What is a typical day like for you? What kind of projects and tasks do you work on?
It took me an entire career to garner the experiences and skills to take on a President’s role for a global business. Working in different parts of the business, relocating 12 times, living internationally twice, and pursuing roles that broadened my skill set and knowledge were key to preparing me for my current role. I needed to deliver business results and lead teams effectively. It takes time to build the knowledge and skills to be a confident and competent leader.
What do you enjoy most about your career? What accomplishments are you most proud of? I really enjoy running the entire business. The challenges are many, but when done well, there is a real sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. I’m competitive, and I'm thrilled when we beat our competition. I’m proud that I did not give up when the going got tough. I persevered and achieved my
I had to push and stretch myself. It is easier to do something you know; It is uncomfortable to do things you have never done before, but that is when the real learning and growth occurs. I have also learned how to effectively lead change. It is hard to do because humans tend to resist change. Business needs change. Markets change, competitors change, and leaders who are agile and lead the change are valuable to employers.
What impact did being in Alpha Sigma Tau have on you and your career? Alpha Sigma Tau was a big part of my development. When we founded the Beta Xi Chapter, I served as a Vice President and then Chapter President. It gave me my first experience leading a larger organization and influencing others. I made a lot of mistakes, but my Sisters were supportive. It is a great place to be a student leader and learn skills that will carry beyond college.
Have there been any mentors who have had a major influence on you? At an early age, my uncle taught me to believe in myself and to aim high. His message has always stuck with me. Professionally, I have worked with many incredible leaders who inspire me daily, and I constantly learn from them. There have been many people who helped me throughout my career, but you need to be brave enough to ask for help. Most people will help if you ask them. There were not many female role models in my industry, so I forged my own path. My advice is to advocate for yourself. Ask for assignments you would like to do or a role that will help you develop skills. Don’t wait for someone else to offer you the next role. Make it easy for people to help you get the next role or development assignment.
What advice would you have for college women and recent grads who are considering STEM careers? Go for it! A STEM degree opens many doors and opportunities that would otherwise be closed to you. STEM degrees are in high demand. Every company I know would like to hire more women into STEM careers. STEM careers are challenging, fun, and financially rewarding.
What do you do for fun? I like almost any outdoor activity and I love to read murder mysteries. As a family, we like to travel and explore new destinations.
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How did you achieve your current role?
What are some challenges you had to overcome?
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I really have two typical days: I am either in the office, or I am traveling to one of our business locations across the globe. I routinely work 10-12 hours/ day, but the days fly by. If I am in the office, it is a combination of preparing for meetings, attending meetings, providing direction, and responding to e-mails. If I am traveling, I am visiting employees and customers, visiting manufacturing facilities, and receiving business updates. I work on strategy, change management, and shaping plans for my business unit and the greater Chevron enterprise. I try to spend my time on items I’m uniquely qualified to do or where I can add value. Everything else, I delegate. I do have to make a lot of decisions every day to keep all the initiatives moving forward. I enjoy the interaction and collaboration I have with people in all parts of the business. Our overall objective is to be a reliable supplier to our customers and to deliver our business plan commitments to the corporation. I will work on whatever needs my attention to accomplish that goal.
goals. Looking back at my career overall, I’m proud to have held jobs leading large organizations in a male-dominated industry that I once thought were unachievable at the beginning of my career.
National Foundation
Dear Sisters, This issue of THE ANCHOR focuses on women in STEM and features Sisters who are leaders in their places of work, communities, and other arenas. Undoubtedly, these women achieved success through hard work, determination, and the support of other women - the root of Alpha Sigma Tau Foundation’s mission. When you support the Foundation by giving back what you can when you can, you are empowering your Sisters by providing them with access to education through academic scholarships and innovative programming that promotes confidence and helps our members become the women they want to be. You are growing the leaders of tomorrow. Thank you! T H E AN C H OR
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On the pages that follow, we proudly celebrate the impact and generosity of your support. You will find two profiles of Sisters who benefited from Foundation scholarships as collegiate members and are now paving the way in their STEM careers. You will also see a list of current scholarship opportunities available to our members, with more than $65,000 in awards - a 55% increase over last year!
F AL L 2017
Lastly, we recognize the individuals and groups qualifying for our annual giving circles in 2017, cumulative giving societies, and members of our Anchor Society and the Friendship & Fidelity Monthly Giving Circle. These individuals, as well as thousands of other Sisters and friends, committed themselves to supporting the Sisterhood in 2017 and beyond. Thank you to each and every one of you for your continued generosity. If you haven’t yet made your own gift to the Foundation, or if it’s been a while since your last gift was made, I hope now is the time that you’ll join us. Together, we are empowering women and growing the future for Alpha Sigma Tau. In Sisterhood and Friendship,
Kris Haskin, Beta Pi President, Alpha Sigma Tau Foundation
Supporting Women in STEM through Foundation Scholarships Each year, the Foundation offers a wide-range of scholarship opportunities to members of Alpha Sigma Tau, with a full list outlined on the following page. Throughout this issue we have been inspired by stories of Sisters thriving in STEM fields, and the Foundation is proud to support our members pursuing these careers through the following STEM-specific scholarship awards:
Michele L. Golob Scholarship (Graduate student in final year of an ACPE recognized Doctorate of Pharmacy program) (PharmD)
Thomas J. King Jr. Scholarship (Engineering)
Edith Minerva Elliott Scholarship (Mathematics or Science)
Nannie Rudd Evans Scholarship (Dietetics or Science)
DonnaMarie Grenier Scholarship (Nursing)
Initiation Date: November 20, 1999
Awarded Scholarship(s): Thomas J. King Jr. Scholarship (2001)
Educational Achievements: Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) in Pharmacology from University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) through Project Management Institute Current Job Title and Employer: Senior Scientist in the Biologics, Assays, and Technology Department (GLP/GCP Bioanalysis) at Teva Pharmaceuticals What do you enjoy most about your career?: Directly applying the skills I developed during my academic training to understand the safety of pharmaceuticals during clinical trials. How did your scholarship from the Alpha Sigma Tau Foundation help you achieve your goal of working in a STEM field?: It allowed for me to delve further into biology while balancing my interests outside of the classroom. It made me a more well-rounded student and adult. What advice do you have for your collegiate Sisters interested in working in a STEM field?: Go after your dreams! I was a small town girl at a small college. With hard work, I was able to attend a program that was top 10 in the country for what I was studying. At UNC, I met many inspiring scientists, including a few Nobel Laureates, was exposed to state-of-the-art techniques and equipment, and was challenged beyond what I believed I was capable of. I never dreamed any of this was possible during my college years. By working hard and focusing on the next step, I was able to explore a large area of science that I didn't even know existed. What would you say to the members and friends who donate to the Alpha Sigma Tau Foundation and supported you in your educational endeavors?: Some of my best memories of my college days were from my senior year when I lived with my Sisters. The scholarship allowed me to discontinue a Resident Assistant job on campus, live with the sorority, and minimize my student loans. I will always value the memories from that time, which I would not have had without the scholarship from AÎŁT. While the scholarship supported my academics, it also allowed me to connect with my Sisters and grow personally. Thank you!
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Breann Wolfe Barker, Gamma Pi (Lycoming College)
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These five awards alone have impacted the lives of more than 60 Sisters since their inception, including Breann Wolfe Barker, Gamma Pi (Lycoming College) and Brandy VanLoo, Delta Tau (Oakland University). Learn more below about these two Sisters who are defining excellence in their STEM careers.
National Foundation
“
Go after your dreams! I was a small town girl at a small college. With hard work, I was able to attend a program that was top 10 in the country for what I was studying.
”
- Breann Wolf Barker
Brandy VanLoo, Delta Tau (Oakland University) Initiation Date: November 29, 2009 T H E AN C H OR
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Awarded Scholarship(s): Nannie Rudd Evans Scholarship (2013), Delta Tau Chapter Scholarship (2013), Mary Louise Mandrea Doyle Scholarship (2014) Educational Achievements: Bachelor of Science in Engineering - Computer Engineering from Oakland University, Bachelor of Arts - Mathematics from Oakland University Current Job Title and Employer: R&D Software Developer, Dassault Systemes What do you enjoy most about your career?: I enjoy that I get to create something from nothing, and that I'm working on the forefront of new developments at Dassault Systemes. The days are never boring and there's always something new to learn. The flexible schedule isn't bad, either!
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How did your scholarship from the Alpha Sigma Tau Foundation help you achieve your goal of working in a STEM field?: When I was two semesters away from graduating, scholarships that I had been using to help pay my tuition ran out. The Alpha Sigma Tau Foundation scholarships that I received helped me collect enough aid together in order to finish those two semesters and graduate that year. This enabled me to keep the full-time job I had secured during my last semester (and am still working at today)! What advice do you have for your collegiate Sisters interested in working in a STEM field?: Don't get discouraged at the outset. When I walked into my first engineering classes, I was daunted by the lack of women in the room. In my first electronics lab, I was so behind others - simply because I didn't have any experience. You might face some of these obstacles - or different ones. Realize others have overcome these same obstacles, and you can too. What would you say to the members and friends who donate to the Alpha Sigma Tau Foundation and supported you in your educational endeavors?: I would like to thank those who donate to the Alpha Sigma Tau Foundation for helping me to finish my education. When I was notified that I had received the scholarships, I breathed a huge sigh of relief knowing that I would be able to graduate. Your contribution enabled me to gain access to a steady job, and I now proudly contribute back to the Foundation so that others can have the same experience I did. Fun Fact: I'm currently part of the Detroit Metro Alumnae Chapter and am serving as their Editor.
“
I would like to thank those who donate to the Alpha Sigma Tau Foundation...Your contribution enabled me to gain access to a steady job, and I now proudly contribute back to the Foundation so that others can have the same experience I did. - Brandy VanLoo
”
More than $65,000 in Available Awards for the 2018-2019 Scholarship Cycle The Alpha Sigma Tau Foundation is proud to offer academic scholarships annually to collegiate and alumnae members. More than $65,000 are available in the 2018-2019 scholarship cycle to any member pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree from an accredited university in the fall 2018 semester. Chapter Scholarships and 2018 Award Amount
Delta Nu Chapter – $3,000 Alpha Lambda Chapter – $2,000 Phi Chapter – $1,000 Psi Chapter – $1,000 Gamma Theta Chapter – $1,000 Delta Rho Chapter – $1,000
Carrie Washburne Staehle Scholarship (Classic modern language study, advancing skills in spoken or written languages) – $2,000 Charlotte Evans Floyd Scholarship (Business administration) – $2,000 DonnaMarie Grenier Scholarship (Nursing) – $1,000 Sara H. Cree Scholarship (Health or physical education) – $500 Edith Minerva Elliott Scholarship (Mathematics or science) – $1,000 Ferne Shumate Phipps Scholarship (Education) – $1,500 June E. McCarthy Scholarship (Education) – $1,500 Mary Ellen Willmitch Scholarship (Elementary education) – $1,000 Michele L. Golob Scholarship (Graduate student in final year of an ACPE recognized Doctorate of Pharmacy program (PharmD) – $2,500 Nannie Rudd Evans Scholarship (Dietetics or science) – $500 Nayle Family Scholarship - $1,000 (Initiated member who is the daughter of an active duty or honorably discharged Veteran in any of the Armed Forces; alumna who is active duty or honorably discharged Veteran in any of the Armed Forces; or daughter of an active duty or honorably discharged Veteran, whether the Veteran is a member of Alpha Sigma Tau or her spouse) St. Louis Alumnae Chapter Scholarship (Education) – $1,000 Thomas J. King Jr. Scholarship (Engineering) – $1,000
General Scholarships and 2018 Award Amounts Effie E. Lyman Memorial Academic Scholarship – $2,000 (3 awards) Elizabeth Wilson/Dorothy Bennett Robinson Scholarship – $1,000 Karen J. Beggs Scholarship – $500 Lenore Seibel King Scholarship – $2,000 Lois Schweikart O’Dell Scholarship – $500 Mary Charles Adams Ashby Scholarship – $1,000 Meda Ray Elliott Sewell Scholarship – $1,000 Rose Marie Schmidt Scholarship – $3,000
Special Interest Scholarships and 2018 Award Amount Martha Drouyor Belknap DeCamp Outstanding Philanthropy Scholarship – $1,000 (Applicant must be motivated by her desire “to contribute to the progress of mankind” and have demonstrated leadership ability to involve others in philanthropic endeavors.)
Learn more about scholarships through the Alpha Sigma Tau Foundation by visiting alphasigmatau.org/foundation/scholarships
Thank you to the members and friends who generously support these scholarship opportunities through donations to the Foundation! To contribute to a scholarship fund, visit: alphasigmatau.org/foundation/give-now and select “Scholarships” from the Donation Type dropdown.
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2018 Founders Day of Giving Chapter Challenge Scholarships and Award Amounts
Field of Study Scholarships and 2018 Award Amounts
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Alpha Lambda Chapter Scholarship – $1,000 Alpha Rho Chapter-Louise Einstein Scholarship – $600 Beta Eta Chapter – Emma Caserotti Memorial Scholarship – $500 Beta Mu Chapter Scholarship – $500 Beta Omega Chapter Scholarship – $500 Beta Pi Chapter Scholarship – $1,000 Delta Chapter Scholarship – $1,000 Delta Beta Chapter Scholarship – $1,500 Delta Nu Chapter Scholarship – $2,500 Delta Tau Chapter Scholarship – $1,000 Epsilon Alpha Chapter Scholarship – $500 Gamma Gamma Chapter – Melinda Henry Oates Scholarship – $500 Gamma Iota Chapter – Kimberly Kahmer Scholarship – $500 Gamma Pi Chapter – $500 Gamma Theta Chapter Scholarship – $500 Omicron Chapter Scholarship – $1,000 Phi Chapter – Southeastern Louisiana Alumnae Chapter Scholarship – $1,000 Psi Chapter Scholarship – $1,000 Psi Chapter – Sara Yakovac Scholarship – $250 Sigma Chapter – Lois Anne Cooke Scholarship – $2,000 (2 awards) Zeta Chapter – Denny Strouse Scholarship – $1,000
National Foundation
Annual Giving Circles - 2017 Donor Recognition The Alpha Sigma Tau Foundation is pleased to recognize individuals, chapters, foundations, and businesses contributing $100+ annually (January 1 - December 31, 2017) to any fund through the giving circles listed below. Benefits include an exclusive annual donor gift, name tag ribbon recognition at national events, and recognition on the Sorority website and in Foundation-related print and electronic materials throughout the year. Annual giving is integral to the success of our organization. Thank you for your generous and continued support!
Emerald Circle ($10,000 – $24,999) Shel Hujarski Golob, Delta Alpha Sarah Hinshaw, Delta Nu
Ruby Circle ($5,000 – $9,999) Ypsilanti-Ann Arbor Alumnae Chapter in Memory of Joyce Phy Berg, Alpha
Eternal Light Circle ($2,500 – $4,999) James R. Paponetti Joell Sperry, Gamma Theta Zeta Chapter in Celebration of 95 Years of Sisterhood
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Yellow Rose Circle ($1,000 – $2,499)
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Erika McManus Bukva, Delta Rho and Jonathan Bukva Laura Clark, Psi Christina Covington, Alpha Lambda Heidi Simon Craft, Delta Nu Sailynn Meghan Doyle, Gamma Delta Lettie Cottrell Dreyer, Delta Delta Elizabeth Noel Scarpa Farner, Gamma Iota Stacey Daniel Fragile, Gamma Mu Lisa-Marie Cox Fredericks, Beta Xi Dr. Theresa Gallo, Delta Phi Kris Haskin, Beta Pi Dr. Edward Jervey Jenni Kemmery, Delta Jamie Jones Miller, Psi and Timothy Miller Holly and Bill Morris Melinda H. Oates, Gamma Gamma Katherine Onyshko, Delta Phi Ange Roeske, Alpha Lambda Rose Marie Schmidt, Theta Tiffany K. Street, Delta Mu Timothy Volk C&K Clark Family Foundation
Investor’s Circle ($500 – $999) Angie Bong Tamara Stegehuis Bonifield, Beta Xi Janet Dodson, Iota Kristina Moron Eaton, Gamma Delta Charlotte Evans Floyd, Psi Crystal Freker, Delta Psi Valerie Patton George, Alpha Rachel Bourgeois Green, Phi and Geoffrey Green Tiffany Sparks Hanna, Omicron Michelle Harvey-Meyers, Beta Chi Emily Hamsher Kindred, Beta Delta and Jonathan Kindred Shauna McQuillen Leandre, Gamma Pi Carol Mooney, Alpha Lambda Patricia Nayle, Phi Jordan Niemeier, Epsilon Omicron Kristin Palmsiano, Delta Delta Debi McCain Pyszka, Alpha Nu Janis Rohling Rowland, Iota Christine Sario-Valdes, Gamma Upsilon Melissa Savich, Beta Leah Smith, Beta Delta Ashley Smith, Psi Justina Solties, Gamma Theta Elizabeth VanHeusden, Beta Xi Diane Marie Wehby, Gamma Xi Bethany Nicole Yost, Beta Delta Southeastern Louisiana Alumnae Chapter
Believer’s Circle ($250 – $499) Mary Askins, Alpha Lambda Melissa Hatfield Atkinson, Gamma Mu
Jessica Balgrosky Carol Baril, Beta Zeta Marcia Comeaux Barr, Phi Joanna Barrett, Epsilon Epsilon Esther Fontenot Barrios, Phi Rebecca Zoeller Bathon, Beta Pi Sally Brancheau Belknap, Alpha Rita Bertolino, Phi Emily Boockoff, Epsilon Sigma Lauren Bromley, Epsilon Alpha Chrissi Ward Cullen, Psi Lindsay McDowall Davis, Gamma Mu Jeannie S. DeClerck, Beta Xi Andrew Demarest Sarah DiDavide, Delta Delta Beth Carney Ebberman, Phi Megan Escobar, Gamma Tau Krista Fox, Beta Chi Nicole Noyse France, Alpha Anne Curran Gruber, Alpha Nancy S. Hanks, Beta Eta ReAnna Hart, Epsilon Omicron Elizabeth Helminski, Beta Xi Seth Hinshaw Christian Hinshaw Melissa Hinshaw D Parker Hinshaw Wyatt Hinshaw Patricia Karl, Alpha Omicron Karen Laursen Kessler, Beta Xi Jennie Wysocki Kuhns, Gamma Rho Lara Henry Longeway, Psi Megan MacFeat, Beta Mu Nadia Sawka Maddens, Theta Ruby Marcelo, Delta Nu Cynthia A. McCrory, Alpha Alpha Beth Knaus McOsker, Alpha Lambda Andrea Rogers Mersiovsky, Rho Alli Miller, Phi Athena Gagnon Mota, Gamma Delta Ben Nemenoff Lynn Wilkie Newberry, Alpha Lambda Christina Alexandria Oates, Gamma Gamma Jo Ellen Onyshko Rachel Presskreischer, Delta Phi Vyonne Puffenberger, Psi Jessica Langkamer Quinones, Delta Debbie Ray, Alpha Emma Bunnell Rice, Phi Patricia Sigle, Chi Patti Klausing Simmons, Delta Deborah Sunday, Beta Iota Kate Sweeney, Gamma Theta Samantha Pankau Thomas, Beta Sonja Twiford, Alpha Lambda Mary Ellen Willmitch, Alpha Rho Lucinda J. Younce, Alpha Alpha Epsilon Alpha Chapter Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter
Supporter’s Circle ($100 – $249) Allison Abayasekara, Gamma Tau Jessa Albert, Delta Upsilon Jennifer Albert Susan Anghel, Alpha Rho Candice Apt, Epsilon Delta Tonya Lee Ashcroft Turgeon, Phi Kathy Pulice Baecker, Theta Ashley Baldes, Beta Xi Alice Ball, Epsilon Gamma Nicole Moretta Ball, Sigma Liz Gray Bazemore, Alpha Lambda Kimberly Benson Beaird, Epsilon Alpha Ashley Brown Beasley, Beta Zeta Barbara M. Benham, Psi Kimber Garrison Biles, Delta Pi Julie Baltes Blaetz, Gamma Theta Mary Glor Bolton, Sigma
Brittany Booth Arete Bouhlas, Beta Omega Jennifer Bowers, Delta Lauren Bowman, Epsilon Alpha Katherine Brough, Gamma Phi Cayte Merryman Brown, Psi Julie Bell Bruington, Iota Pamela J. Burkes, Gamma Gamma Sara Burns, Delta Eta Mary Cabot, Delta Upsilon Brittany Martinek Carey, Delta Psi Desiree Caro, Gamma Upsilon Seleena Carpenter, Alpha Sharon Langford Carpenter, Epsilon Alpha Lea Chandonnet, Beta Kathleen Chase-McGrath, Delta Nu Ashley Clark, Gamma Mu Johnnie Sudduth Clinton, Rho Mark Clodius Jennifer Cohen, Gamma Rho Caitlin Conway, Beta Mu Donna Cook, Omicron Carol Cooper, Zeta Tau Jenni Cornelius, Beta Eta Ginny Duggan Crone Carr, Alpha Lambda Claire Crosmun, Gamma Xi Barbara Cuite, Iota Kenneth Cullen Debbie Davendonis-Todd, Delta Nu Emily Davis, Delta Alpha Amanda Davis, Delta Upsilon Martha Drouyor Belknap DeCamp, Alpha Melissa Fleegal DeMotta, Gamma Tau Carole Burns DeRuiter, Alpha Lambda Rachel Adelaide Detlev, Epsilon Kappa Heidi M. DiGennaro, Alpha Pi Tiphany Shannon DiMauro, Delta Rho Patricia K. DiStefano, Omicron Dorothy Dobos, Theta Tracy Trukowski Doherty, Beta Upsilon Lani Dollar, Gamma Gamma Evelyn Gragnani Dowdy, Zeta Tau Jason Dowies Anyssa Dudley, Zeta Tau Pamela Yaroma Durkin, Zeta Joanne Golik Eisenhauer, Alpha Lambda Ellen S. Eldridge, Alpha Alpha Michelle Jagutis Eldridge, Beta Xi Patricia Enderlin, Upsilon AJ Smith Ezersky, Alpha Lambda Margaret Fake, Psi Nicole M. Farber, Gamma Tau Christie Fidura, Zeta Tau Edna Finch, Upsilon Karah Fissel, Psi Pat Flaugher, Psi Vanessa Florence, Zeta Kristina Kelly France, Beta Janice Sohrbeck Frowein, Alpha Epsilon Agnes P. Fryntzko, Pi Mary K. Gallagher, Psi Catherine Kieffer Gervase, Sigma Jessica Geyer, Gamma Tau Jennifer Gibson, Beta Pi Anna Golladay, Chi Meilyng Gonzalez-Adams, Gamma Theta Janet Engelbrecht Gottsleben, Beta Nicole Gozzi, Alpha Lambda Donna Green Nancy L. Greenawalt, Alpha Pi Janice Grundy, Beta Xi Bonnie Baran Gurney, Alpha Lambda Kelli Haidle, Beta Chi Amy Schutzenhofer Hamilton, Beta Eta Carol Haney, Alpha Epsilon Jessica Harper, Delta Mu Tina Harper, Delta Mu Lauren Dyer Hayden, Beta Kirsten Heck, Gamma Pi Tatum Heiser, Gamma Pi Jennifer Hepler, Delta Alpha
Colleen Stiening, Zeta Cheryl A. Stockton, Alpha Delta Marie Stott, Beta Delta Britta Stride, Delta Eta Loretta J. Stuber, Alpha Alpha Kendall Tallmadge, Delta Nu Marty Schwartz Tarmann, Alpha Epsilon Jackie Jensen Tarry, Alpha Lambda Michele Tenore, Alpha Lambda Nicole Theriault, Alpha Lambda Michele Thomas, Alpha Lambda Adrianne Gregoire Thornton, Delta Rho Lisa Throckmorton, Alpha Lambda Irene P. Tillman, Pi Sandra Downey, Alpha Lambda Anne Boley Todd, Nu Kimberly Topel, Gamma Rho Patricia Thomas Torrence, Psi Jessica Treneer, Epsilon Lambda Ann Turner, Alpha Kappa Kellie Margaret Vehlies, Epsilon Epsilon Lois N. Vess, Alpha Jamie Alunni Vinci, Zeta Kristin Walker, Alpha Lambda Joanne Rupprecht Walter, Psi Lisa Webb, Beta Pi Stephanie Weems, Alpha Mu Kate Wehby, Gamma Xi Jason West Leslie Jones Whitfield, Alpha Lara Cegala Williams, Psi Diane Wrightman, Gamma Xi Rebecca Lapham Yaun, Delta Rho Kathy Youngblood Yawn, Gamma Gamma Jessica Leigh Zabriskie Lynne Zaledonis, Psi Bethany K. Zepeda, Epsilon Lambda Kristin Zerbe, Gamma Pi Holly Zimmerman, Gamma Tau Buffalo Alumnae Chapter Indianapolis Alumnae Panhellenic Association Lehigh Valley Alumnae Chapter Lowell Alumnae Chapter Phoenix/Valley of the Sun Alumnae Association St. Louis Alumnae Chapter Tidewater Area Alumnae Chapter
Cumulative Giving Societies - Donor Recognition The Alpha Sigma Tau Foundation is proud to offer Cumulative Giving Societies to recognize the lifetime giving of $5,000+ by individuals, chapters, or associations contributing to any of the Foundation’s initiatives. The names of these societies honor outstanding women in Alpha Sigma Tau’s history and ware indicative of the extraordinary commitments those recognized through these societies have made to the Foundation. This list is accurate as of March 1, 2018. Rose Marie Schmidt, Ed.D. Society ($190,000+) Rose Marie Schmidt, Theta (lead donor) Charlotte Evans Floyd Society ($75,000-$189,999) Charlotte Evans Floyd, Psi (lead donor) Sybil and Jerry King Society ($30,000-$74,999) Michele Hujarski Golob, Delta Alpha Sarah Hinshaw, Delta Nu Lenore Seibel “Sybil" King*, Psi and Thomas “Jerry" King, Jr.* Robert O'Dell* in Memory of Lois O'Dell*, Lambda Alpha Sigma Tau National Sorority Lois Anne Cooke Society ($20,000-$29,999) Dr. Edward Jervey June McCarthy*, Pi Kenneth & Hazel Roe Foundation Elliott Family Society ($10,000-$19,999) Christina Covington, Alpha Lambda
Martha Drouyor Belknap DeCamp, Alpha Gail Fowler, Alpha Lambda Mary Beth Kelley, Delta Patricia Nayle, Phi Melinda H. Oates, Gamma Gamma James R. Paponetti Meda Ray Elliott Sewell*, Omicron Delta Chapter Beta Eta Chapter Buffalo Alumnae Chapter Detroit Metro Alumnae Chapter Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter Elizabeth Wilson Society ($5,000-$9,999) David Atkinson Marcia Barr, Phi Julie Bell Bruington, Iota Mary Louise Mandrea Doyle*, Theta Edith Elliott*, Omicron Kris Haskin, Beta Pi Cynthia McCrory, Alpha Alpha Jamie Jones Miller, Psi and Timothy Miller
Holly and Bill Morris Bobbie Nichols, Alpha Gamma Debi McCain Pyszka, Alpha Nu Joell Sperry, Gamma Theta Tiffany K. Street, Delta Mu Vera Walkup*, Pi Mary Ellen Willmitch, Alpha Rho Elizabeth Wilson*, Pi Beta Chapter Zeta Chapter Omicron Chapter Alpha Epsilon Chapter Alpha Rho Chapter Beta Pi Chapter Gamma Xi Chapter Epsilon Alpha Chapter Epsilon Gamma Chapter St. Louis Alumnae Chapter Tidewater Area Alumnae Chapter Ypsilanti-Ann Arbor Alumnae Chapter C&K Clark Family Foundation *deceased
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Pam Myhre, Gamma Theta Jullie Driscoll-Nauman, Zeta Tau Bobbie M. Nichols, Alpha Gamma Lindsay Ezersky O’Brien, Alpha Lambda Kelli O’Brien, Delta Eta Amie Lynn O’Malia, Zeta Carolina Oyola-Rodriguez, Epsilon Upsilon Leslie Franklin Parlow, Alpha Lambda Mary-Louise Paucke Lovell, Gamma Pi Amanda Pennington, Delta Chi Sara Wilson Perez, Beta Delta Julie Patterson Peters, Gamma Gamma Sarah Pinkerton, Delta Pi Stewart Pinkerton Christine Poulson, Alpha Lambda Genie Carter Powers, Phi Dr. Inga Smith Pratt, Delta Nu Marie Pszenyczniak, Delta Nu Susan Woodrow Pyle, Gamma Gamma Paula Quinn, Delta Diane Rand, Beta Pi Tina Ratcliff, Alpha Lambda Sharon Eaton Richard, Alpha Nu Erica Richards, Beta Mu Rebecca Riede, Gamma Gamma Samantha Rill, Delta Delta Joanne King Rodgers, Psi John Rodgers Jamie L. Rossi, Gamma Theta Kimberly Schaap Sandt, Gamma Lambda Rita Sanger, Omicron Tiffany M. Saragian, Beta Tau Sherry Schaffer, Beta Psi Nancy A. Schmich, Alpha Sigma Cathy Schreiner, Chi Kathy Anderson Seeger, Phi Ann Sherman, Beta Xi Betty Jean Ross Shive, Alpha Epsilon Pamela Emory Siedling, Beta Mu Briana Simko, Beta Delta Jessica James Smith, Delta Iota Carol Waller Smith, Gamma Gamma Misty Coe Smith, Psi Karen Smith, Psi Diane L. Smith, Psi Debbie Smith Kathleen Ann Spears, Gamma Gamma Amy Sherman St. John, Zeta Tau Vanessa Stevens, Psi
T H E AN C H OR
Lynn Sullivan Hess, Alpha Lambda Elaine Hinshaw Angela Holeczy, Gamma Theta Tammy Green Holloway, Alpha Lambda Johnelle D. Hunt, Upsilon Ronica Jackson, Epsilon Beta Dr. Linda Bethel James, Alpha Lambda Carol Matthews Johnson, Beta Zeta Dawn K. Johnson, Gamma Gamma Rebecca Johnson, Zeta Cecilia Kadane, Alpha Gamma Carolyn Keen, Alpha Lambda Carole Keily, Alpha Xi Mary Beth Kelley, Delta Alex L. Kennedy Christine Kienle, Alpha Sigma Andrianah Kilgore, Epsilon Zeta Kathleen Kniess, Delta Sigma Jordan Knuth, Beta Pi Canda Kroger, Rho Jennifer LaBonte, Delta Omicron Rose LaVista, Gamma Rho Dawn Scott Lecker, Beta Delta Elizabeth R. LeRoy, Alpha Alpha Jenna Lewis, Gamma Gamma Brian Lieberman Stephanie Little, Beta Eta Brianne Ludlow, Epsilon Theta James Mahoney Alycia Mallon-Buhle, Beta Beta Deborah Manning, Alpha Tau Michelle Zewe Markley, Alpha Tau Jill Bubb McDermott, Delta Marcia McDonnell Aisha Mian McGill, Psi Debra Jennings McGillivray, Gamma Lambda Laura McGinty, Psi Kelly McCloskey McInnis, Phi Emily Ashby McIntire, Alpha Lambda Jean M. McNamara, Sigma Laura Squires Meza, Phi Megan A. Middleton, Delta Psi Amy Miller, Beta Xi Tina Miller, Sigma Allie Ellis Mills, Gamma Gamma Nicole M. Mitchell, Gamma Zeta Beverly Molnar, Delta Lolita Contreras Murrah, Alpha Lambda Ruth Ann Myers, Alpha Alpha
National Foundation
Anchor Society The Anchor Society recognizes members, parents, and friends of Alpha Sigma Tau contributing $1,899+ annually
(January 1 - December 31) to the Anchor Fund. Gifts made to the Anchor Fund support the most pertinent initiatives of the organization, including the operating budget, and individuals recognized through the Anchor Society make up the building blocks of our Foundation.
2017 Donor Recognition Christina Covington, Alpha Lambda Michele Hujarski Golob, Delta Alpha Sarah Hinshaw, Delta Nu Jamie Jones Miller, Psi and Timothy Miller
2018 Donor Recognition (still in process)
Holly and Bill Morris Katherine Onyshko, Delta Phi James R. Paponetti Joell Sperry, Gamma Theta
Valerie Patton George, Alpha Michele Hujarski Golob, Delta Alpha James R. Paponetti* Rose Marie Schmidt, Theta
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Having a consistent donation base each month helps the Foundation plan and operate more efficiently and helps us give you, our generous supporters, the best return on your investment. Special thanks to the individuals listed below, who are recognized as active recurring donors and members of the Friendship & Fidelity Monthly Giving Circle as of March 1, 2018.
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Jessa Albert, Delta Upsilon Mary Askins, Alpha Lambda Melissa Hatfield Atkinson, Gamma Mu Francesca Bailey, Epsilon Gamma Alice Ball, Epsilon Gamma Nicole Moretta Ball, Sigma Joanna Barrett, Epsilon Epsilon Rebecca Zoeller Bathon, Beta Pi Ashley Beasley, Beta Zeta Sally Brancheau Belknap, Alpha Rita Bertolino, Phi Angie Bong Tamara Stegehuis Bonifield, Beta Xi Emily Boockoff, Epsilon Sigma Cayte Merryman Brown, Psi Erika McManus Bukva, Delta Rho Sara Burns, Delta Eta Tracy Ciabattoni, Zeta Jennifer Cohen, Gamma Rho Jenni Cornelius, Beta Eta Christina Covington, Alpha Lambda Amanda Davis, Delta Upsilon Lindsay McDowall Davis, Gamma Mu Sarah DiDavide, Delta Delta Lettie Cottrell Dreyer, Delta Delta Kristina Moron Eaton, Gamma Delta
Megan Escobar, Gamma Tau Stacey Daniel Fragile, Gamma Mu Nicole Noyse France, Alpha Meilyng Gonzalez-Adams, Gamma Theta Rachel Bourgeois Green, Phi Anne Curran Gruber, Alpha Janice Grundy, Beta Xi Jessica Harper, Delta Mu Kris Haskin, Beta Pi Brea Haywood, Alpha Kirsten Heck, Gamma Pi Sarah Hinshaw, Delta Nu Angela Holeczy, Gamma Theta Ronica Jackson, Epsilon Beta Jenni Kemmery, Delta Alex L. Kennedy Karen Laursen Kessler, Beta Xi Emily Hamsher Kindred, Beta Delta Jordan Knuth, Beta Pi Canda Kroger, Rho Jennie Wysocki Kuhns, Gamma Rho Jenna Lewis, Gamma Gamma Rachel Binda-Lis, Sigma Michelle Macey, Gamma Delta Megan MacFeat, Beta Mu Michelle Zewe Markley, Alpha Tau Andrea Rogers Mersiovsky, Rho Alli Miller, Phi Jamie Jones Miller, Psi Allie Ellis Mills, Gamma Gamma Beverly Molnar, Delta Carol Mooney, Alpha Lambda Holly Primus Morris Meredith Rambo Murray, Gamma Pi Ben Nemenoff Melinda H. Oates, Gamma Gamma
Christina Alexandria Oates, Gamma Gamma Kelli O’Brien, Delta Eta Katherine Onyshko, Delta Phi Stacy Opiela, Gamma Lambda Jim Paponetti Sarah Pinkerton, Delta Pi Rachel Presskreischer, Delta Phi Debi McCain Pyszka, Alpha Nu Jessica Langkamer Quinones, Delta Debbie Ray, Alpha Emma Bunnell Rice, Phi Erica Richards, Beta Mu Samantha Rill, Delta Delta Mary Jane Rodriguez, Gamma Gamma Jamie L. Rossi, Gamma Theta Suzanne Lilliquist Schultz, Delta Briana Simko, Beta Delta Ashley Smith, Psi Leah Smith, Beta Delta Megan Smith, Gamma Rho Justina Solties, Gamma Theta Joell S. Sperry, Gamma Theta Alice Thomas, Beta Phi Kimberly Topel, Gamma Rho Michele Upright Kellie Margaret Vehlies, Epsilon Epsilon Diane Marie Wehby, Gamma Xi Kate Wehby, Gamma Xi Bethany Nicole Yost, Beta Delta Jessica Leigh Zabriskie
Quarterly Recurring
Carol Baril, Beta Zeta
Annual Recurring
Valerie Patton George, Alpha
To join the Friendship & Fidelity Monthly Giving Circle with a secure automatic monthly donation, visit: alphasigmatau.org/foundation/give-now and select “Monthly” from the Gift Recurrence dropdown, or call Emily Kindred, Director of Development, at 317-613-7566.
To view all donor recognition programs, including the 1899 Society for Collegiate Giving and past annual donor recognition lists, visit: http://alphasigmatau.org/foundation/recognition/
Scholarships
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To learn more about the Foundation, please visit alphasigmatau.org/foundation. To support these programs, log on to AÎŁT Connect and click "Give," or visit alphasigmatau.org/donate.
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are all funded by the generous donations of members and friends to the Alpha Sigma Tau Foundation.
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Collegiate Chapter Updates
Alpha, Eastern Michigan University
Alpha chapter Sisters attending Convention are excited to make new connections and represent the chapter. Sisters will be vacationing all over: Hawaii, Florida, California, and Mexico, to name a few!
Zeta Tau, Longwood University
Our Chapter President will be studying abroad in Ireland, as well as attending Convention! We have Sisters traveling to Italy, Canada, Maine, Ohio, Wisconsin, Tennessee, and New Hampshire! We also have multiple Sisters taking the NCLEX to become RNs!
Chi, Shepherd University
One of our Sisters live in Virginia Beach, so we all can't wait to go and visit! Another Sister is going to Walt Disney World with her family. The members attending Convention are looking forward to learning new strategies and implementing them.
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Beta, Central Michigan University
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This summer, Alpha Sigma Taus in Michigan are planning an Anchored in Michigan event at Central Michigan University. We also have many Sisters who are excited about studying abroad and completing internships.
Psi, James Madison University
Upsilon, University of Central Arkansas
Similar to the past two summers, a group of women will take a trip to Supango, Guatemala, to serve communities there. Our members going to Convention are excited to meet Sisters from other chapters!
The Psi Chapter is very excited for the eventful summer ahead! Chapter President Ashley Accardo is most excited to connect with Sisters from across the nation at Convention and to hear how other chapters are run!
Alpha Gamma, Henderson State University
Zeta, Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania
The Alpha Gamma ladies are looking forward to Sisterhood time and trips to locations including Las Vegas and Washington, D.C. Chapter President Bekah Smith is so excited to attend Convention with Alpha Gamma Chapter Delegates and meet Sisters from around the country!
Chapter President Jordyn Thompson is excited to attend Convention and take advantage of the opportunity to learn more about our sisterhood while meeting Sisters from other chapters.
Phi, Southeastern Louisiana University
Omicron, Concord University
Our Sisters have many exciting plans! Several members are going to London and Ireland for a theater study abroad trip, while others are going on a road trip to Colorado for hiking and sightseeing. Still others are planning a trip to Disney with an alumna!
Our members are excited for the summer - some are going on mission trips and some are backpacking across the southeastern states. Our members going to Convention can't wait to meet new people and learn something new to bring back home to our chapter!
Alpha Epsilon, Western Illinois University
Alpha Epsilon Sisters have visits planned to Europe, Guatemala, and Mexico, and two Sisters will be volunteering on service trips in Kentucky and Mississippi!
Alpha Lambda, Radford University
Alpha Lambda Chapter President Hannah Simmons is very eager to not only build her connections while at Convention, but to also build our chapter’s connections with our fellow Alpha Sigma Taus.
Beta Xi, Michigan Technological University
This summer is an exciting one for Alpha Psi. We will be moving into our chapter house in July! This will also be our first time attending National Convention and we're excited to meet Sisters from all over the country!
Many Beta Xi Sisters will be exploring their majors through exciting internship opportunities, and two Sisters will be studying abroad in the Netherlands!
Beta Delta, Duquesne University
Beta Pi, Eastern Illinois University
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Alpha Psi, University of Northern Iowa
Alpha Xi, Mansfield University of Pennsylvania
Alpha Tau, Edinboro University of Pennsylvania
In addition to spending time together over the summer, several Alpha Tau Chapter Sisters will be studying abroad in Italy, Scotland, and Ireland!
Alpha Phi, West Chester University of Pennsylvania
Alpha Phi’s Vice President of Member Development, Ashley Levy, will be volunteering as a camp counselor this summer!
Many Beta Delta Sisters will be working in hospitals and businesses in downtown Pittsburgh this summer while others will be seeing the sights in Florida and London!
Beta Pi Sisters are looking forward to relaxing with family, and the two Sisters attending Convention are excited to learn new skills to bring home to the chapter!
Beta Eta, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Beta Tau, University of Massachusetts Lowell
It’ll be a summer of internships for Beta Eta Sisters as some of us will intern in marketing and field operations, others will participate in research projects, and one Sister will travel to Madrid with PINC International!
Beta Iota, Millersville University of Pennsylvania
Summer 2018 is going to be a whirlwind for Beta Iota Sisters! Some Sisters will be going on birthright trips to Israel, service learning trips to South Africa, and studying abroad in Italy!
Beta Tau Sister Shae will be returning from her study abroad work in Ireland while Sister Julie will be heading to Switzerland! The Chapter President is looking forward to connecting with other Sisters at Convention.
Beta Phi, California University of Pennsylvania
Beta Phi Chapter President Baleigh Gray is excited to build on skills learned during last year’s Officer Academy by attending Convention, and continue working to make the chapter the best it can be!
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Alpha Xi Sisters are ready for the warm weather! While some Sisters are securing summer jobs, others are heading to Belize as soon as the semester ends!
Collegiate Chapter Updates
Beta Chi, Ferris State University
The Beta Chi chapter was excited to welcome their newest Sisters into the chapter, and they can’t wait to meet other chapters around the state at Anchored in Michigan!
Gamma Mu, West Virginia University Institute of Technology
At Convention, Gamma Mu’s attendees are looking forward to meeting Sisters from other chapters. It will be exciting for us to participate in all the fun activities that Convention has to offer!
Gamma Omega, La Salle University
Many of our senior Sisters will be celebrating graduation by taking trips to Nashville and New Orleans. Our members who will be attending Convention in June are looking forward to it being their first visit to the city of Pittsburgh!
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Gamma Rho, Seton Hall University
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Gamma Gamma, University of West Alabama
There is nothing our Sisters love more than a summer at the Jersey Shore. The Sisters of Gamma Rho are looking forward to planning some trips together.
A few of the Sisters of the Gamma Gamma Chapter are going on road trips up the east coast, to Nashville, and to music festivals over the summer with family and Sisters. Other Sisters are working summer jobs, internships, and going on mission trips.
Delta Alpha, Gannon University
Our Sisters are traveling all over the world to countries such as Greece, Spain, Poland, and France. We will have our annual Sisterhood Retreat in July to complete service. We are excited to meet more Sisters and learn more about our Sorority at Convention!
Gamma Upsilon, California State University, Los Angeles
A few Sisters of the Gamma Upsilon chapter are planning big trips this summer! These traveling Taus are very excited to visit Canada, Hawaii, and even Puerto Vallarta via cruise ship.
Delta Epsilon, Marist College
Gamma Delta, University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
Some Sisters are taking service trips to Haiti and Costa Rica, going to Vet School, and teaching flute lessons at a summer camp! The girls attending Convention are excited to meet Sisters from across the country and have a say in Alpha Sigma Tau’s future!
Gamma Psi, Fitchburg State University
Four of our members, Chelsea W., Emma M., Kimmy P., and Micayla V., will be volunteering at Camp Sunshine! Camp Sunshine is a retreat for children with life threatening illnesses and their families. They will be helping out during Oncology Week!
Traveling and experiencing new cultures is one of our favorite things. Our Sister Alison Kenney just returned from the Marist College Global Outreach Program, and several of our Sisters are preparing for their next semester abroad!
Delta Theta, Moravian College
Bryn Wiragh and Mikaylah Ott will be studying abroad in Europe for three weeks. Chapter President Kayla Herr hopes to learn at Convention about successful and exciting events to implement in our Sisterhood and campus.
Delta Tau, Oakland University
One of our members, Alexis Troy, is planning on visiting Ocean City, Maryland, this summer. She will be going during the July 4 week to watch her sister compete at Dance Nationals and spend some time with family on the beach.
Epsilon Delta, Rogers State University
We will be spending this summer doing amazing things for ourselves, the community, and the Chapter. We have Sisters studying abroad in Rome, going to concerts, and making trips to see family.
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Delta Nu, Beloit College
31 Delta Phi, New York University
Sisters will be spending their time interning in New York City and enjoying the warm weather together in their free time! Chapter President Ali Garcia is excited to get to know Alpha Sigma Taus from all over the country during Convention and help create lasting leadership decisions.
Epsilon Epsilon, North Miami Campus of Johnson & Wales University
Maggie Carlson plans to go diving in Bonaire. Jenna Wertz will be continuing her tradition of teaching swim classes to less fortunate children. Our Sisters who are going to Convention are looking forward to meeting so many Sisters from different chapters.
Delta Pi, Oglethorpe University
Sisters will be overseas for study abroad programs and fun-filled adventures with family and friends. Members going to Convention are excited about connecting with Sisters around the country and strengthening their bond with Alpha Sigma Tau.
Delta Omega, Penn State Altoona
Delta Sigma, University of the Sciences
One of our Sisters, Ciana Miles, will be going to Cancun to stay at a resort and soak up the rays. Gabby Daisy will be going to Punta Cana and North Carolina. In NC, she will be staying in the hotel where they filmed Dirty Dancing!
A Sister will be taking a trip to South Africa and possibly interning there! Another Sister is potentially serving with AmeriCorps at an organization that works with disadvantaged youth in Kentucky. Our Sisters will be all over the world!
Epsilon Theta, Fairleigh Dickinson University
Sisters will be heading to Texas with the Hands Organization to aid in Hurricane Harvey Relief. We are be planning a beach trip with alumnae. Some Sisters also have internships within their field or taking city trips or vacations in Disney World!
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We are excited to learn more about strengthening our relationship with other chapters at Convention. We are also interested in developing our professional skills, and learning how to motivate our members!
Collegiate Chapter Updates
Epsilon Iota, New York Institute of Technology
Epsilon Nu, McDaniel College
Epsilon Rho, SUNY Geneseo
Epsilon Kappa, Trine University
Epsilon Xi, Gustavus Adolphus College
Epsilon Sigma, Bridgewater State University
Epsilon Mu, SUNY University at Buffalo
Epsilon Omicron, University of Southern Indiana
Epsilon Chi, University of Minnesota Duluth
We are traveling to St. Vincent and Mexico. We have one Sister who is visiting Nicaragua for a service project. Another Sister is going to Texas for an engineering internship. Our Chapter President is looking forward to meeting new ladies at Convention.
Our Sisters are looking forward to the warm weather and endless adventures of working and traveling. The Sisters that are going to Convention are looking forward to learning more about Alpha Sigma Tau.
Epsilon Rho Sisters have been excitedly welcoming 35 new members this semester! Many of our members are spending their Spring Breaks volunteering around the United States. We are very excited for our upcoming retreat, senior send-off, and meeting people at Convention!
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Hannah and Molly will be interning at the Branch County Sheriff's Departtment and the Indiana State Police, respectively. Molly is also traveling to Spain and Morocco. Becca is getting EMT certified. Alex is excited to make new connections at Convention.
Singapore, Germany, and Austria are just three of the places our Sisters will be traveling to this summer! So many of our intelligent Sisters have internships this season, as well. We are looking forward to a summer of new experiences and growth!
The ladies of the Epsilon Xi Chapter have exciting plans for summer! Some of these include nursing internships, photographing and interviewing bands in the Twin Cities, and traveling to the Boundry Waters, Duluth, and of course our cabins!
Many Sisters start summer internships soon, with other Sisters returning home from this past semester studying abroad and across the U.S. Members attending Convention are looking forward to connecting with other chapters while building our own chapter.
We are so excited to say that we welcomed 26 amazing women into our chapter this spring! Our chapter is also raising money for and participating in an annual, campus-wide Relay for Life event in April!
This summer, our Sister Megan Veeder is spending two weeks in the Philippines with her church. The is not a mission trip, but a trip to challenge her and her understanding of the world.
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Alumnae Chapter/Association Updates What are some of your members' exciting summer plans? Any big Sister trips? Service projects? Get-togethers? For those attending Convention in June, what are you most looking forward to?
Blue Ridge
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The Blue Ridge Alumnae Association is approaching our first anniversary as an official association. We made many exciting memories over the first year: a beautiful Founders Day event, an ornament exchange, multiple philanthropy projects, and socials filled with good food, laughs, and Sisterhood. We look forward to more wonderful memories in our second year.
Baltimore
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The Baltimore Alumnae Chapter is looking forward to connecting with Sisters at Convention and furthering Alpha Sigma Tau’s initiatives through networking and programming. Our summer get-togethers include visiting Jailbreak Brewing Company, brunch at Rams Head Dockside, a cookout, and an annual Orioles game fundraiser. All Sisters, both local and visiting, are welcome. For more information, “like” the Alpha Sigma Tau Baltimore Alumnae Chapter Facebook page or email baltimorealumnae@gmail.com.
Detroit Metro
The Detroit Metro Alumnae Chapter is kicking off our spring and summer by volunteering at Focus Hope, where we’ll pack boxes of food with collegiate Sisters from Delta Tau. We have some fun summer events on the horizon, including our annual mother/daughter luncheon, Summer Night Out in July, and, of course, Convention. We are excited to see Sisters we get to see only every other year, and spend time with women, old and young, who share the same values and core beliefs.
Buffalo
The Buffalo alumnae had a beautiful winter luncheon in January. The weather was certainly frightful, but it didn’t keep us from bonding over brunch with local Sisters, young and old. We look forward to one of our biggest Convention turnouts in years.
Edwardsville
Birmingham
The Birmingham Alumnae Chapter celebrated Founders Day at Grille 29. At our December Christmas party, we enjoyed Lisa Lewis’s delicious shrimp and grits and played Dirty Santa, with everyone bringing a Christmas ornament. In February, we held our business meeting at the Bright Star in Bessemer. Other events include the Rumpshaker 5K for colon cancer, dinner to celebrate Night to Reunite, and Convention. This summer, we’ll relax with our families until the time comes to make recruitment favors for Gamma Gamma.
Central Indiana
This winter we celebrated Founders Day, had a Christmas party, and attended a hockey game. We look forward to some fun this spring, including a winery tour, play, and picnic. Some of us will be attending Convention. We hope others can join us for our great events!
The Edwardsville Alumnae Chapter celebrated its 45th anniversary in February. While enjoying our celebration, we planned two events for spring: dinner at the Spaghetti Factory in March and Cooper’s Hawk in April. Our summer plans are sure to include a Cardinals baseball game and a music festival evening at Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis. For more information on our events, check our Facebook page: Alpha Sigma Tau Edwardsville Alumnae.
Erie
Lowell
The Lowell Alumnae Chapter had a great winter that included a holiday party, dinner, and our winter meeting. We are ramping up for spring and the nice weather to come, which will include a fun barbecue at an alumna’s lake home in New Hampshire. At our spring meeting in May, we hope to plan a service project that will involve some hands-on community service. We will also award our yearly scholarship to a Beta Tau collegiate Sister very soon.
Phoenix/Valley of the Sun
PVOS is excited for our upcoming summer gatherings, including our fourth annual wine tasting event. Most exciting is the growth we are experiencing. We have welcomed three alumnae to the Phoenix area so far in 2018. Several members are looking forward to attending Convention to catch up and strengthen bonds with Sisters from all over the country, learn from the speakers, and make new connections.
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The Erie Alumnae Chapter is ready for warm weather and a fun summer after our record-breaking snowfall this winter! We plan to continue our partnership with the Mercy Center for Women to help local women who need assistance. We will also continue our tradition of attending an Erie Seawolves baseball game and hope to get more local alumnae involved this summer.
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Greater Chicago
Greater Chicago hosted our annual fondue party in February. Between an engagement, a new baby on the way, and a 75th birthday, we had much to celebrate! We made plans for the Chicagoland Night to Reunite event, a volunteer opportunity at Ronald McDonald House in May, and a fun family event this summer. Several members will attend Convention this year, so we’re looking forward to a great trip together!
Lehigh Valley
Our final event of the 2017–18 year will be our potluck dinner and annual meeting in May. Sisters will enjoy time with their families in June and July. We will gather again in August to plan our events for 2018–19.
Philadelphia
We have a lot of exciting events planned. In May, we’re heading out to lunch for some hibachi, and in June, we will visit the Mummers Museum to see all the great costumes and learn some of the history of the Mummers in Philadelphia. Summer plans include a pool party in July and a Trenton Thunder baseball game in August (a joint event with the Garden State Alumnae Association). In September, we will go to Longwood Gardens to see their Fireworks & Fountains show. This year’s theme is “Disney Favorites,” and we are super excited. We also hope to volunteer at the Ronald McDonald House. Anyone who would like to join us can find our calendar on our website: philadelphia.alphasigmatau.org
South Florida
The South Florida Alumnae Chapter’s upcoming events include goat yoga (we recently did kitten yoga!), visiting a local farmers market, and our second annual summer weekend trip to Universal Studios and Disney World.
Alumnae Chapter/Association Updates
Southeastern Louisiana
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Many of us gathered at Champagne Bingo to support the Southeastern Louisiana University Lions. We also sold grilled cheese sandwiches at Rock ’n Roar to raise money for our chapter and scholarship. In March, we had a wine and cheese event to welcome our newly graduated collegiate members into our alumnae chapter and the next phase of their sorority life. Several local events are planned for Night to Reunite on April 12. Events in the works for spring and summer include a couples day to tour a local brewery, a coffee talk to discuss Convention plans, and a family day. Sisters planning to represent our chapter at Convention look forward to the exciting excursions and reconnecting with Sisters from around the country.
Tidewater
The Tidewater Alumnae Chapter holds monthly meetings, and several Sisters have come up with ideas for social gatherings. One recent idea was to attend a showing of Beautiful: The Carole King Musical at Chrysler Hall in Norfolk. More outings are being discussed as spring and summer quickly approach. We look forward to the annual Tidewater Area Panhellenic Association (TAPA) luncheon in April, where scholarships for an undergraduate and graduate woman are awarded, along with recognition of the Greek Woman of the Year.
Ypsilanti–Ann Arbor
As Michigan summers are best known for lounging on a lake, our annual gettogethers include potlucks hosted by Sisters and friends, enjoying the sun and fresh air. The Ypsilanti/Ann Arbor area is rich with history and culture, and it’s impossible to resist attending local events and celebrations such as Ypsi Pride, Drag Queen Bingo, or the Heritage Festival. While summer is the season of sun and events, it is also the best time of year for outdoor service. Ypsi’s own community garden is local and always welcomes a helping hand.
Interested in establishing an Alumnae Chapter/Association?
Are there a lot of Alpha Sigma Taus in your area but nothing that brings you all together? Start an alumnae chapter!
St. Louis
Many St. Louis Alumnae Chapter members are teachers, retired teachers, counselors, nurses, mothers, and grandmothers. As such, it’s not surprising that our summer activities revolve around children. This year will include volunteering at Vacation Bible Schools at local churches of various denominations. Arline Clark, with her skills as a pianist and lively storyteller, is a valuable volunteer. Another longstanding summer activity is volunteering at day camps for the Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri. It can be very hot here, so the Girl Scouts have moved some day camps to early evenings, which is ideal for our working alumnae. The STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) sessions are our favorites. It is very rewarding to help the youth awaken to their potential.
Like collegiate chapters, alumnae chapters and associations foster lifelong friendships grounded in shared experiences. Involvement with an alumnae chapter or association offers unique opportunities for new leadership roles, personal growth, professional development, community service, and most importantly, fun! Joining an alumnae group is a social experience, connecting members from all stages of life and bringing them together within the bonds of Sisterhood.
Ready to get started?
Contact Kirsten Heck, Gamma Pi, Member Engagement Coordinator, at kheck@alphasigmatau.org or 317-613-7230.
IT’S CONVENTION TIME! Are you (accessory) ready?
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A. Crown Pearl Badge (Available through your HQ) B. Chapter Letter(s) Guard C. Chapter President Dangle D. Recruitment Counselor Dangle E. Director of Collegiate/Alumnae Engagement Dangle F. VP Member Development Dangle
G. VP of Growth Dangle H. Tau Honor Council Delegate Dangle I. Alumna/Graduating Senior/ Anchored for Life Dangle J. Big Sis/Lil Sis Dangle K. Stole
L. Juliette Watch M. Chapter President/Officer Ring N. Snake Chain (Charm sold separately) O. Chapter President Gavel Charm P. Pearl Brooch (Available as pendant) Q. Oval Onyx Mini Crest Ring with CZ
hjgreek.com/ast • 800.451.3304 Not all items shown actual size. 34-4329
Anchoring Thoughts As is true in many feilds (or industries), women remain underrepresented in STEM careers. While there is still a lot of progress to be made, the good news is that the tide is turning. In recent years, the number of women in STEM professions has increased significantly – both in terms of jobs held and degrees acquired. This is due, in no small part, to women like those featured in this issue of The Anchor and the millions more who are breaking down barriers and thriving in a decreasingly maledominated field.
Tara Cary, Gamma Pi
Lead Chemist, The Dow Chemical Company
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Why did you pursue a career in STEM? I always had an interest in science and that was cultivated by some amazing teachers. From middle school on, science class was always my favorite. I loved learning through hands-on experiments and reallife experiences. That is why STEM careers are so fun. There is always something interesting to learn.
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How did being in Alpha Sigma Tau help? My experience in Alpha Sigma Tau was a great introduction to working with diverse groups of people and trying to find a common ground to accomplish a team goal. It also helped me to learn time management skills to juggle school/lab work with a social life, which has helped maintain a good work/life balance in my career. What advice would you share with those considering STEM careers? Do what you love. Try to find what you are passionate about, and if you aren’t sure what your passion is just yet, that’s OK. That is what is so great about STEM careers: there are so many options. If you start somewhere and realize it’s not for you, the experience you gained will be applicable toward your next opportunity.
Victoria Seader, Gamma Tau
Research Technologist, Penn State College of Medicine Why did you pursue a career in STEM? I was inspired to pursue a STEM career after taking psychology and chemistry classes in high school. There are so many opportunities to grow and develop your career the way you want. The constant discoveries in all STEM fields mean that there are open doors in literally every direction. How did being in Alpha Sigma Tau help? Having the support of my Sisters when I was struggling through my senior capstone seminar and other difficult coursework was invaluable! And of course, my Alpha Sigma Tau Foundation scholarships helped me afford my education. What advice would you share with those considering STEM careers? Be curious in your endeavors. Regardless of whether you're pursuing biology or engineering or math or science education or IT, or any other aspect of STEM, if you are looking to learn all you can, you will find success.
Officer, Volunteer, and National Staff Directory NATIONAL COUNCIL National President Tiffany Street, Delta Mu tstreet@alphasigmatau.org National Vice President Erika McManus Bukva, Delta Rho ebukva@alphasigmatau.org National Vice President Jenni Kemmery, Delta jkemmery@alphasigmatau.org
NOMINATIONS COMMITTEE
nominations@alphasigmatau.org Chair Shauna Heinsler Jackson, Delta Alpha Members Shae McLin, Phi; Rachel Roller, Delta Pi; Pam Steele, Psi; Dr. Kristin Walker, Alpha Lambda Alumna Alternate Vacant Collegian Alternate Taylor Hogg, Zeta Tau
National Vice President Katherine Onyshko, Delta Phi konyshko@alphasigmatau.org
GOVERNING DOCUMENTS COMMITTEE
National Vice President (Collegian) Kristin Palmsiano, Delta Delta kpalmsiano@alphasigmatau.org
Chair Kristina Moron Eaton, Gamma Delta keaton@alphasigmatau.org
National Vice President Emma Bunnell Rice, Phi erice@alphasigmatau.org
Members Ashley Hoogstraten, Beta Pi; Tara Shaffer, Gamma Pi; Ashley Harris, Zeta Tau; Amanda Gelbart, Delta Phi; Katherine Onyshko, Delta Phi
NATIONAL PANHELLENIC CONFERENCE DELEGATION NPC Delegate Jamie Jones Miller, Psi jmiller@alphasigmatau.org NPC 1st Alternate Delegate Elizabeth Knaus McOsker, Alpha Lambda bmcosker@alphasigmatau.org
NPC 3rd Alternate Delegate Joanne Rupprecht Walter, Psi jwalter@alphasigmatau.org
PAST NATIONAL PRESIDENTS 1984-1986 Gail Shockley Fowler, Alpha Lambda 1986-1992 Patricia Nayle, Phi 1996-2002 Martha Drouyor DeCamp, Alpha 2002-2008 Patricia Klausing Simmons, Delta
Members Amy Brooks, Alpha Xi; Erika McManus Bukva, Delta Rho; Tracy Bond Ciabattoni, Zeta; Carol Cooper, Zeta Tau; Emily Ashby McIntire, Alpha Lambda; Patricia Klausing Simmons, Delta
HEADQUARTERS STAFF
Executive Director Jim Paponetti jpaponetti@alphasigmatau.org Associate Executive Director of Member Services Angie Bong abong@alphasigmatau.org Director of Meetings and Events Rachel Bourgeois Green, Phi rgreen@alphasigmatau.org Director of Development Emily Kindred, Beta Delta ekindred@alphasigmatau.org Director of Operations Holly Morris hmorris@alphasigmatau.org
VOLUNTEER PERSONNEL
Director of Finance Pam Myhre, Gamma Theta pmyhre@alphasigmatau.org
Master Facilitators Melissa Hatfield Atkinson, Gamma Mu; Chelsea Belote, Beta; Jen Cohen, Gamma Rho; Jenn Craig, Zeta Tau; Steven Crudele; Maureen Filmore; Lisa-Marie Fredericks, Beta Xi; Jordan Frederking, Upsilon; Jenny Greyerbiehl; Brieanna Hodskins; Zachary Littrell; Aly McKenna, Delta Upsilon; Katie Perschbacher, Gamma Xi; Will Takewell; Nicole Tunage, Beta Rho; Mary Woodbury, Epsilon Sigma; Brittani Wyskocil Editor, The Anchor Kate Sweeney, Gamma Theta Associate Editor, The Anchor Tara Walker Gross, Zeta Tau Alumnae Editor, The Anchor Beverly Singel Molnar, Delta Collegiate Editors, The Anchor Shanee Frazier, Gamma Rho, Leah Hollingsworth, Delta Upsilon, Kelli Purcell O’Brien, Delta Eta Designers Melissa Abriola, Alpha Tau and Elizabeth Dawson, Phi Staff Writers Joanna Barrett, Epsilon Epsilon; Darcy Coulter, Epsilon Xi; Cassie Cristea, Gamma Theta; Lindsay McDowall Davis, Gamma Mu; Olivia DeFilippo, Psi; Tori Dixon, Epsilon Gamma; Shanee Frazier, Gamma Rho; Cassie Helmer, Alpha; Leah Hollingsworth, Delta Upsilon; Ashley Hoogstraten, Beta Pi; Lauren Irby, Zeta Tau; Beverly Singel Molnar, Delta; Samantha Rill, Delta Delta; Elizabeth Schilling, Delta Upsilon; Elizabeth Miller Villegas, Delta Rho; Lauren Crawford Welch, Delta Psi
PANHELLENIC SPECIALISTS
Director of Marketing and Communications Ben Nemenoff bnemenoff@alphasigmatau.org Assistant Director of Chapter Services Brittany Booth bbooth@alphasigmatau.org Assistant Director of Growth and Extension Ashley Smith, Psi aksmith@alphasigmatau.org Chapter Services Coordinator Alex Kennedy akennedy@alphasigmatau.org Chapter Services Coordinator Kate Wehby, Gamma Xi kwehby@alphasigmatau.org Member Engagement Coordinator Kirsten Heck, Gamma Pi kheck@alphasigmatau.org Member Engagement Coordinator Justina Solties, Gamma Theta jsolties@alphasigmatau.org Growth Specialist Jessa Albert, Delta Upsilon jalbert@alphasigmatau.org Communications Specialist Michelle Zewe Markley, Alpha Tau mmarkley@alphasigmatau.org Accounting Assistant Michele Upright mupright@alphasigmatau.org Administrative Assistant Jessi Zabriskie admin@alphasigmatau.org
Panhellenic Specialist Megan MacFeat, Beta Mu mmacfeat@alphasigmatau.org Panhellenic Specialist Erica Richards, Beta Mu erichards@alphasigmatau.org
Educational Consultant Jamie Bider, Delta Upsilon jbider@alphasigmatau.org
NATIONAL FOUNDATION BOARD
Educational Consultant Emily Boockoff, Epsilon Sigma eboockoff@alphasigmatau.org
foundationinfo@alphasigmatau.org President Kristin Haskin, Beta Pi Vice President Rita Bertolino, Phi Vice President Jamie Jones Miller, Psi
Educational Consultant Marlene Camacho, Delta Upsilon mcamacho@alphasigmatau.org Educational Consultant Jess Harper, Delta Mu jharper@alphasigmatau.org Educational Consultant Sarah Pinkerton, Delta Pi spinkerton@alphasigmatau.org
39 S P R IN G 2018
2008-2014 Christina Duggan Covington, Alpha Lambda
T H E AN C H OR
NPC 2nd Alternate Delegate Carol Zorger Mooney, Alpha Lambda cmooney@alphasigmatau.org
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Chair Patricia Nayle, Phi pnayle@hal-pc.org
Indianapolis, IN Permit 5409
National Headquarters 3334 Founders Road Indianapolis, IN 46268
JUNE 21-24, 2018 PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA astconvention.org
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Photo Credit: VisitPittsburgh