2025 Convention Recap Report
Executive Summary
From May 30 to June 1, 2025, Delta Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. hosted its 24th National Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, bringing together more than 90 collegiate and alumnae members from across the country.
The theme, "Legacy of Light," highlighted our virtues as guiding principles in the journey of Everlasting Sisterhood®, emphasizing the importance of leading with respect, purpose, and excellence. Through this lens, Convention 2025 served as a platform for strategic planning and honoring both our enduring legacy and future potential.
Key highlights of the weekend included the induction of our 27th Chapter—Denison University Associate Chapter—and the installation of new members from chapters across the country for the 2024–2025 year. We also proudly welcomed the Tennessee Alumnae Chapter into the National Alumnae Association. The Convention featured two impactful keynote speakers: Dr. Bryan Dosono and Sister Andrea Newman, who shared insights on legacy-building and making lasting impacts. We were also thrilled to announce a new national partnership with the Asian Mental Health Collective, highlighted by a special presentation from AMHC co-founder Lisa Cheng.
Attendees participated in more than 15 breakout sessions focused on personal and professional growth as well as enhancing the member experience. Topics included leadership development, chapter operations, communications and branding, member engagement, and professional networking. A standout session was the philanthropy workshop centered on our national philanthropic partner, the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation (BHOF), accompanied by a fundraising event that received many member support. A detailed list of all workshops and sessions is provided below.
The General Meeting provided a forum for chapter voting delegates to receive organizational updates, vote on amendments to the Constitution and Bylaws, and elect national leaders. These actions reflected the evolving needs of our membership and helped strengthen the Sorority’s governance in
alignment with our mission and strategic goals.
Throughout the weekend, we celebrated the achievements and dedication of our members and chapters. Delta Phi Lambda Foundation scholarships and National Awards were presented to individuals and chapters who demonstrated exceptional commitment to our mission and virtues. The Banquet evening concluded with Sisterhood bonding, recognition ceremonies, photos, and chapter strolls from across the nation —a joyful celebration of our unity and pride.
In closing, the 2025 National Convention was a meaningful experience to honor our shared achievements, embrace our future, and reinforce our collective vision. We extend heartfelt thanks to the Board of Directors and Headquarters staff for their extraordinary efforts in bringing this event to life. From rituals and programming to logistics and marketing, their dedication made this Convention a resounding success. Mark your calendar for the 2026 National Convention which will be held in
Convention At A Glance
14
# of HQ Staff attendees
7
# of Sisterhood activities
18
# of breakout sessions
41
# of total awards given:
9 national awards
32 semesterly national recognitions
6
# of Foundation scholarships given
20
# of new members installed
Key Sessions & Highlights
Featured Speakers
Keynote
Punctuate Your Life with a Legacy of Light
Bryan Dosono, NAPA Chair
is a Principal Strategist at a Web3 fintech firm, with prior roles at eBay, Airbnb, and NASA.
HerStory
HerStory Keynote Building a Legacy: From Personal
Journey to Organizational Impact Andrea Newman
A visionary change-maker in Delta Phi Lambda Sorority Inc., Andrea “Risqué” Newman's journey began when she crossed at the University of Georgia's Alpha Chapter in fall 2010—a senior-year experience that ignited her passion for Sorority development.
Through a decade of dedicated service with the National Sorority Headquarters and National Foundation, Andrea rose through committees, staff positions, and Board of Director leadership roles, consistently identifying organizational gaps and implementing transformative solutions. Her gift for strategic thinking and commitment to building sustainable systems has enhanced the Sorority experience for Sisters nationwide.
Today, as Director of Marketing and Business Development at Palacio Collaborative, Andrea continues applying her legacy-building philosophy, demonstrating how identifying issues, creating solutions, and methodical execution can transform organizations one brick at a time.
View her resource all about volunteering!
Partnering for Well-being: An
Overview of Asian Mental Health Collective's Offerings with Delta Phi Lambda Lisa Cheng, AMHC Cofounder
Delta Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. is delighted to announce a new partnership with Asian Mental Health Collective (AMHC). Lisa Cheng, LMSW, AMHC’s Cofounder and Director of Subtle Asian Mental Health, shared her story of embracing her Asian American identity and her deep passion that led her to help create AMHC.
Sisters joined us for an insightful session highlighting the vital resources and support offered by the Asian Mental Health Collective (AMHC), in collaboration with Delta Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. Participants discovered how AMHC is working to destigmatize mental health within the Asian community and learned about the specific programs and resources they provide. This session explored how AMHC
supports individuals through culturally sensitive information, online communities and initiatives aimed at increasing access to mental health care, and learned how this partnership with Delta Phi Lambda amplifies these efforts and empowers our members and the broader community to prioritize their mental well-being.
Sessions & Workshops
Bonding Beyond Distances: Chapter Traditions Roundtable
Members explored what Sisterhood looks like across Chapters. In this discussion-based session, Sisters shared what makes their Chapter culture special and how we can better support each other, collaborate, and celebrate wins together—even when miles apart.
Stronger Together: Grants and Scholarships
Get funded! Sisters joined the Delta Phi Lambda Foundation workshop packed with practical advice and a supportive network to help you and your Chapter apply for different
Empathetic Educators
Rachel Pan and Jenna Murray
This presentation engaged sisters in thoughtful discussions about the qualities of a successful educator. It offered opportunities to share experiences and explore the role of an empathetic and effective educator beyond the written guidance of the AME Manual. Staff will participated in a "mock session," allowing sisters to offer constructive critiques as if evaluating a real educational setting.
Empowering Voices, Elevating Brands: Communication & Branding Strategies
Joyce Chua and Olivia Oppedal
Strong communication and branding are essential in representing the values and mission of Delta Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc.®. This interactive workshop equipped chapters and members with effective communication strategies to enhance engagement, build a consistent brand identity, and elevate the sorority’s presence both on campus and beyond. Participants explored key branding principles, learned how to craft compelling messages, and gained insights into leveraging digital platforms for outreach and visibility.
Bridging the Gap: Strengthening Collegiate and Alumnae Relations
Melissa Olarte
Your Alumni aren’t just a resource—they’re your legacy. This session reviewed how to meaningfully engage your Chapter’s Alum network through updates, invitations, small touches, and shared traditions. Members Learned how to make Alum feel included (without overwhelming your calendar), tips for managing Alum social media groups, and how to re-engage disconnected grads.
Leading with Purpose: Leadership Roundtable
Mary Le and Joyce Chua
The Delta Phi Lambda Leadership Roundtable Workshop engaged members and was designed to empower leaders within our Sisterhood. It provided valuable insights into effective leadership, strategic decision-making, and collaborative problem-solving. Through discussions, scenario-based activities, and vision planning, participants developed essential skills to strengthen their chapters and drive positive change. Let’s lead with confidence and inspire the future of Delta Phi Lambda!
Money Moves 101
Abby Srisavath and Terisa Phonxaya
This workshop offered a practical and engaging introduction to financial confidence and long-term planning. Attendees explored key concepts around personal finance, decisionmaking, and the foundations of property ownership—topics often overlooked but essential for building a secure future. Through interactive activities, participants gained valuable insights and tools to make informed choices, no matter their starting point.
From a Spark to Light: Growing our Philanthropic Legacy
Kristen Singharat
Sisters explored the power of collective giving and its lasting impact on Delta Phi Lambda. This session illuminated the history of our philanthropic endeavors, celebrated the growth of our Foundation, and inspired members to become a catalyst for change, with a special emphasis on our national partnership with the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation. We also discussed the importance of supporting our local communities by selecting a local philanthropy that aligns with each chapter's value.
Queen City Scavenger Hunt (Alumnae Only)
Alumnae Sisters put their skills to the test in a thrilling scavenger hunt through the heart of Charlotte. Teams raced against the clock, solving clues, completing challenges, and explored the city's most exciting sights.
Lighting the Way: Alumnae Chapter Legacy & Vision
Zaria St. Lawrence Madas
In this session we celebrated the enduring legacy of our Alumnae Chapters illuminating the path forward. It provide an overview of what our Alumnae Chapters are, highlighting key achievements and the lasting impact of our Sisters. We also engaged in an open discussion about aspirations for Alumnae life, explored opportunities to strengthen our bonds, foster personal and professional growth, and continue to shine as a beacon of Sisterhood and service.
Pass the Torch: Recruiting with Purpose
Jenna Murray and Victoria Camara
Ensure the future of our sisterhood by mastering the art of values-based recruitment. This interactive workshop equipped members with the tools and strategies to identify, engage, and inspire Potential New Members who embody the ideals of Delta Phi Lambda.
The Art of Gathering: Creating Meaningful Connections
Melissa Olarte
Members dived into the heart of creating gatherings that matter and explored the principles, strategies, and practical tools from Priya Parker's book to transform ordinary meetings into unforgettable experiences. Participants learned how to pinpoint purpose, craft intentional design, and foster deep connection among attendees.
Rooted in Sisterhood: Cultivating Stronger Bonds
Jenna Murray
In this engaging seminar members focused on building effective communication and conflict resolution skills. Through guided small group discussions, participants practiced having tough conversations in a safe, supportive environment. Attendees learned actionable tools, valuable insights from peers across the nation, and greater confidence in handling difficult dialogue while preserving relationships.
Sisterhood Activities
BHOF Partial Pr c d @ Jinya Ram
Str ll W rk
Vi i n B ard Alumna
Ar y u Smart r t an a N
S cial Butt rfly C all ng
ISpy Activit
R y R fl cti n
National Award Winners
Collegiate Chapter Awards
Blue Rose Award
Tau Chapter - University of Wisconsin-Madison
Jade Award
Upsilon Chapter - University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Collegiate Chapter of the Year
Zeta Chapter - Georgia Institute of Technology
Collegiate Member Awards
New Member of the Year
Calista "Eliønah" Yap
Zeta Chapter - Georgia Institute of Technology
Mission Award
Amelia "NΞW ERΛ" Baskin
Pi Chapter - University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Dedicated Female Leader® Award
Sam "sune" McQueen
Tau Chapter - University of Wisconsin-Madison
Collegiate Member of the Year
Kaitlyn "Aelya" Banh
Zeta Chapter - Georgia Institute of Technology
Distinguished Alumna Award
Olivia "Aurelifera" Oppedal Nu Chapter - Iowa State University
Outstanding Alumna Award
Zaria “Palladium” St. Lawrence Madas Epsilon Chapter - University of Central Florida
Alumnae Member of the Year
Joyce "IRØNCLAD" Chua Mu Chapter - University at Albany
HQ Member of the Year
Analise “Mikköa” Wackrow Kappa Chapter - Loyola University Chicago
Alumnae Member Awards Foundation Scholarship Awards
Academic Excellence Scholarship
Ivana “Kirke” Chen Theta Chapter - Emory University
Meadow “Arüna” Drapala Zeta Chapter - Georgia Institute of Technology
esonate Scholarship
Jasmine “Aramei” Liu Theta Chapter - Emory University
Angela “Selarae” Zhang Rho Chapter - University of Connecticut
annah Seoh Alumnae Scholarship
Melissa “Lejiit” Olarte Pi Chapter - University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Andrea “Acier” Garcia Epsilon Chapter - University of Central Florida
Acknowledgements
Outgoing Board of Directors
Thank you for your time and dedication to Delta Phi Lambda®!
President 2023-2025 VP of Marketing 2024-2025
Erica Alexander-Cao VP of Programming 2023-2025 2023-2025
2025-2026 Board of Directors
Vacant President
Zaria St. Lawrence-Madas VP of Alumnae
Jenna Murray VP of New Membership
Katrina Kim VP of Finance
Vacant VP of Operations
Vacant VP of Programming
Mary Le VP of Collegiate
Olivia Oppedal Interim VP of Marketing
Joyce Chua Past President
Special Thank You
Convention Planning Team: Erica Alexander-Cao, Zaria St. Lawrence Madeas, Terisa Phonxaya HQ Volunteers: Joyce Chua, Mary Le, Jenna Murray, Mariah Sampsel, Katrina Kim, Melissa Olarte, Victoria Camara, Hannah Kulovitz, Olivia Oppedal, Alina Li, Kristen Singharat, Rachel Pan Marketing: Joyce Chua, Olivia Oppedal, Marketing Intern - Valeria Ramirez T-shirt Design: Alyn Kosasi Programming Interns: Kylie Vue, Renee Chau
2026 National Convention see you in...
PA Philadelphia
