2024
CONVENTION RECAP REPORT
Executive Summary
Delta Phi Lambda’s 23rd National Convention took place from May 31 to June 2, 2024, in vibrant Chicago, IL. With the inspiring theme “The Future is Ours,” we united over 130 members to envision and actively shape our collective future. This theme emphasized unity, shared goals, and the significant impact we can make together.
This year, we proudly initiated our 26th Chapter at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and installed a new Active Chapter at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville, Chi Chapter. These milestones highlight our continued growth and dedication to expanding our Sisterhood.
Attendees enjoyed a packed schedule of strategic planning sessions, goal-setting workshops, and celebrations of our members’ achievements. Awards and scholarships
were presented, honoring the remarkable contributions and commitment of our Sisters. Beyond the formal sessions, members participated in engaging activities that fostered stronger connections and collaboration. Convention was not only about looking ahead but also about celebrating our present and past successes, creating a vibrant and supportive environment for all attendees.
Thank you to everyone who made this event possible, especially the Delta Phi Lambda Foundation, our Board of Directors, and the HQ Staff. Your support and hard work ensured an unforgettable convention.
We can’t wait to gather again next year in Charlotte, NC, for the 2025 National Convention! Mark your calendars!
2024 Convention At-A-Glance
21
total # of breakout sessions
133
total # of attendees; 88 Collegiate Members & 35 Alumnae Members
total # of national awards given 14 # of scholarship awards given 4
# of new members installed
# of Sisterhood activities
Key Events & Highlights
FEATURED SPEAKERS
Igniting Change
Jennifer Borrero
Jennifer Borrero, a UN Ambassador and founder of a nonprofit, delivered a keynote highlighting her journey from Wall Street tech to social justice advocate. She inspired students with stories of advocacy and creating opportunities globally, empowering them to shape a more inclusive future.
Mindfulness & Meditation Nicole Eng
Nicole Chandler Eng, also known as Cobri, shared her journey as a holistic healer and owner of Westerly Wellbeing during our session. She highlighted her practices in sound healing, Reiki, and mindfulness, emphasizing community, inclusivity, and self-discovery. The session included a fun meditation demonstration, inspiring everyone to explore profound well-being through nature-inspired rituals.
HerStory Keynote
Victoria Huynh
Victoria Huynh, a Spring 2005 initiate of Delta Phi Lambda at the University of Georgia Alpha Chapter, was our esteemed Herstory speaker. She shared her impactful journey from serving on the Sorority’s Board of Directors and creating “3C’s Week” to her influential advocacy work supporting immigrant and refugee communities in Georgia. Victoria’s leadership at the Center for Pan Asian Community Services (CPACS) and her founding of the Georgia AAPI Hub underscore her commitment to community building and equitable advocacy.
BREAKOUT SESSIONS
Is My Sister a Bully? Susanna Zheng & Analise Wackrow
This workshop focused on distinguishing between healthy disagreements and bullying. Through a combination of presentations and case studies, attendees learned effective mediation and conflict resolution techniques. Participants also gained insight into when and whom to reach out to for additional support.
Balancing Act: Managing Sorority Life to Avoid Burnout Erica
Alexander-Cao
Did burnout used to be a common reality for your chapter? At “Balancing Act,” attendees explored effective strategies for managing their chapter’s schedule without overwhelming themselves. They learned practical tips to streamline tasks, prioritize responsibilities, and create a more supportive environment for a balanced and fulfilling Sorority experience.
HQ Fireside Chats BOD & HQ Staff
What exactly does Headquarters do? Why do we have this policy in place? Who can assist me with this specific issue? These questions and more can be raised during our Fireside Chat with representatives from our Board of Directors and HQ Staff.
Coffee House Chat: Executive Board Positions
Theresa Khuat and Susie Fan
This breakout was a focused session for chapter executive board members. It provided a relaxed environment to discuss challenges, share successes, and develop leadership skills. Participants connected with fellow leaders, gained insights into effective management tactics, and left with actionable strategies to enhance their chapters.
Professional Headshot Hour
Members enjoyed an exclusive opportunity to boost their professional portfolios with a high-quality headshot session.
Professional Networking Hour
Hosted a session on life after graduation—exciting, daunting, and full of possibilities. Alumnae volunteers shared their experiences and offered guidance, bringing together Collegiate and Alumnae Members to connect, brainstorm, and build hope for the future.
Real Talk: Open Discussion about Our Sorority Culture Erica Alexander-Cao
“Real Talk” was a lively workshop where members openly discussed our Sorority’s culture, strengths, and areas for improvement. Alumnae, Collegiate Members, and HQ attendees joined forces to drive positive change and ensure our Sorority’s ongoing relevance and strength.
Mental Health: Addressing Stress with Support Alina Li & Zaria St. Lawrence
Members enjoyed a dynamic mental health workshop focused on stress management through community support. Participants learned effective stressrelief techniques, identified triggers, and built strong support networks. This session empowered everyone to foster resilience and well-being within their community.
Shaping the Alumnae Experience Alina Li & Zaria St. Lawrence
Members joined an open-floor discussion about the post-college Alumnae experience where they explored current offerings and shared ideas for future enhancements, ensuring our Sisterhood continues to thrive beyond graduation.
Habit Mastery: Breaking and Building Habits
Melissa Olarte
Diving into our “Habit Mastery” workshop, members learned practical strategies to build positive habits and break free from limiting ones. This session provided insights into habit psychology, empowering everyone to achieve lasting changes and pursue their goals effectively.
SISTERHOOD ACTIVITIES
• Sisterhood Bingo
• PJ Party
• Felt Flower Making (Alumnae Only)
• Ronald McDonald House Snack Pack Making
• Capture a Butterfly
• Encouragement Mailboxes
National Award Winners
COLLEGIATE CHAPTER AWARDS
Blue Rose Award
Epsilon Chapter - University of Central Florida
Jade Award
Epsilon Chapter - University of Central Florida
Chapter of the Year
Upsilon Chapter - University of Nebraska-Lincoln
COLLEGIATE MEMBER AWARDS
Mission Award
Nicole “AMβER” Elliott
Phi Chapter - The Ohio State University
Dedicated Female Leader Award
Ivy “Aziniya” Qian
Phi Chapter - The Ohio State University
Collegiate Member of the Year
Aliyah “Solakùa” Muniz
Upsilon Chapter - University of Nebraska-Lincoln
ALUMNAE CHAPTER AWARDS
Alumnae Chapter of the Year
Epsilon Chapter - University of Central Florida
Alumnae Chapter Member of the Year
Victoria “Pronoia” Camara
Epsilon Chapter - University of Central Florida
ALUMNAE MEMBER AWARDS
Distinguished Alumnae Award
Analise “Mikköa” Wackrow
Kappa Chapter - Loyola University Chicago
Outstanding Alumnae Award
Susanna “ιlenyal” Zheng
Tau Chapter - University of Wisconsin-Madison
Alumnae Member of the Year
Zaria “Palladium” St. Lawrence
Epsilon Chapter - University of Central Florida
FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS
Hannah Seoh Scholarship
Susanna “ιlenyal” Zheng
Tau Chapter - University of Wisconsin- Madison
Ellaina “VEENA” Villarreal
Kappa Chapter - Loyola University Chicago
Academic Excellence Scholarship
Angela “Sumiko” Ni
Rho Chapter - University of Connecticut
Grace “Aïax” Casanova
Epsilon Chapter- University of Central Florida
Member Moments
CHAPTER ACHIEVEMENT
Introducing our newst Active Letter Chapter, University of Tennessee-Knoxville Chi Chapter!
ATTENDEE ACCOLADES
“My experience at National Convention has been a wonderful experience. I am so thankful for the opportunity to meet other Sisters from around the world. My favorite part had to be listening to our Alumni. It truly demonstrates that our Sisterhood is Everlasting. Thank you for those who contributed to the preparation of this beautiful event.”
Corinne Finger Collegiate Member UTC Chapter, Fall 2022
“My first Convention was so much fun! It was so nice to spend time with out of state Sisters I don’t see often and meet new Sisters. I’m also happy that UTK were finally able to get Active Letter Status. However, the most memorable part of Convention was getting my custom!”
Sundy Nguyen
Collegiate Member
UMN Chapter, Fall 2023
“I love meeting Sisters from all over the states! My favorite part of Convention was the sleepover because I got to know Sisters from other chapters, see different strolls, and just bond with everyone for the love of music!”
An Nguyen National HQ Staff
UTK Chi Chapter, Spring 2020
“I’ve had a wonderful time meeting so many wonderful Sisters. I’m glad that I got to have this experience.
Kassidi Mott
Collegiate Member
GVSU Iota Chapter, Spring 2024
“Honestly, this weekend had made me feel included by meeting other Sisters whether they are new members or not, this is such a memory to cherish.”
Sylvia Choi
Collegiate Member
UWF Omicron Chapter, Spring 2024
“Convention is a great time to see everyone and connect with Sisters I don’t usually meet or see. It has been great to connect, discuss common issues, and re-discover Sisterhood. Can’t wait for more to come.”
Kristal Rosas
Alumnae Member
UCF Epsilon Chapter, Fall 2017
“This is my first time at Convention and I absolutely love it! I love meeting Sisters from other chapters and getting to bond with them whether is was during the games we played or the deep breakout sessions. It is such a fun time and I’m excited for the next Convention. Meeting everyone here has helped me break out of my shell and become more confident. I love how super sweet everyone is!”
Abryannah Chanthana Collegiate Member
GVSU Iota Chapter, Fall 2023
“This is my first Convention, and my heart feels so full. I love getting to meet Sisters and I really feel out Everlasting Sisterhood!”
Andrea Pampuan Collegiate Member
UWF Omicron Chapter, Fall 2022
Farewell & Welcome
OUTGOING BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Melissa Olarte VP of Alumnae 2022-2024
Houa Vang VP of Finance 2022-2024
Aanisah Chowdhury VP of Marketing 2022-2024
2024-2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Joyce Chua President
Zaria St. Lawrence-Madas VP of Alumnae
Vacant VP of Finance
Jenna Murray VP of Expansion
Erica Alexander-Cao VP of Programming
Mariah Sampsel VP of Operations
Vacant VP of Marketing
Vacant VP of Collegiate
