Perspectives December 2023: Volume 71 | Issue 1

Gamma Sigma Sigma National Service Sorority Incorporated

PERSPECTIVES A National Publication of Gamma Sigma Sigma

Volume 71 | Issue 1

An ode to our fallen roses

Memories 2 “To celebrate where we are going, we must first show appreciation to where we have been...”

Solidifying Sorority Culture

04

Editor Letter

05

President Letter

08

Service Call: Heard #AMACintheCity “Wee Care About You!” First Time Founder’s Day Reviving Service in our Community A Round of Applause

11 13

15 17 19 21

“Ask Gamma?!”

24

Alumni Email Directory

26

NBD Email Directory

27

Table of Contents 3

Service Update

Solidifying Sorority Culture Celebrating the Legacy: Honoring a Sorority Member Resolute Request By: Alumni Director, Genevieve Jones In times of loss, the strength of a sisterhood becomes most evident. The passing of a sorority member is undoubtedly a challenging moment, but it also presents an opportunity for the sorority to come together and celebrate the legacy of the departed member. One way to honor their memory is through the thoughtful and respectful process of requesting a resolute—a gesture that pays tribute to their impact on the sisterhood. This article provides a guide on requesting a resolute for a sorority member who has passed away, emphasizing the importance of compassion, collaboration, and remembrance.

Sorority Culture 4

Understand the Sorority's Tradition: Before initiating the resolute request, it's important for you to familiarize yourself with the GSS's traditions and protocols regarding memorials. It is essential to respect and adhere to these practices while honoring the departed sister. To honor each of our members similarly, GSS provides email notification if a current NBD member or past President passes away and provides a Resolution to all members when initiated by another Sorority member.

Communicate with Sorority Leadership: Initiate Open Communication: Initiate a compassionate and open dialogue with the sorority's leadership, such as the president or vice president. Share your intentions and express the desire to request a resolute in memory of the sorority member. Collaboration with the leadership ensures that the process aligns with the sorority's values and guidelines.

The resolution form can be located on the national page under the documents and forms tab or by emailing the National President (president@gammasigmasigma.org). Resolutions are completed upon request. Please allow one week to receive the resolution from the National President.

Collaborate with the Family: Reach out to the family of the departed sorority member with sympathy and support. Seek their input and involvement in the resolute planning process, ensuring that the tribute reflects the wishes and values of the family. This collaboration will foster a sense of unity and respect during this difficult time.

Requesting a resolute from Gamma Sigma Sigma National Service Sorority, Inc. for a member who has passed away is a thoughtful and meaningful way to honor their memory. By approaching the process with empathy, collaboration, and a focus on personalization, you can create a resolute that celebrates the unique qualities and positive impact of the departed member. In doing so, the sorority community can unite to support one another and pay tribute to a cherished member whose legacy will forever be remembered.

5 Editor Letter

A Letter from our Editor Greetings All! It is such a pleasure to be able to create this amazing publication for you all again! It has been a whirlwind of fun with your new NBD and Marketing Committee, but if you know me, you know I am absolutely loving adding a bit more of Maroon and White to my everyday routine! As your newly voted National Marketing Director, it is my job to ensure that information gets to our body in a timely, pristine, and engaging way and manner, and I must say it is such a blast to interact with you each day via social media and see all of the amazing content you are creating.

I spoke with your NBD and I have been listening closely to what you all have been communicating to us as to what you would like to see when it comes to the celebration and representation of our sorority, I’d like to think that we have come up with an amazing way to boost your Gamma Sigma Sigma pride! So this year, the National Marketing Team would like to invite you to participate in a new campaign we are launching in January 2024 called “Standing on Service 365!” #GammaSigmaSigma365 #Service365!

What is #GammaSigmaSigma365 ?

Many organization's hottest topic to date is keeping the spirit of the organization alive long.

In our opinion, keeping the culture of Gamma Sigma Sigma National Service Sorority SERVICE is always at the forefront of our minds! In inspiration of the amazing efforts our organization makes wee want to celebrate, and what better way to do so than to do what we do best...SERVICE! So we challenge you to get active with the national projects and efforts during this campaign and let's prove that we “Stand on Service 365!”

Tag us in your social media !!! We love to share you guys on our story feed. The more you share the more we post daily! (Just make sure the music and verbiage are appropriate to make us proud!)

Send the footage/photos and a short or lengthy story to the marketing@gammasigmasigma.org email.

Use our #hashtags and keywords to make the miracles you do daily a BIG DEAL! ( Wee don’t need the create but we want to raise awareness for whatever project and platform you are supporting too)

ugh o r th unt y l p Ap ur accoe yo on th al ion e! t a N bsit We

Love Editing? Have a knack for writing?

Apply to be our Perspectives Editor!

Email me with questions :)

Wee love seeing and sharing your photos and videos don’t forget to tag us on social media @gammasigmasigma on Facebook + Instagram and to our team email marketing@gammasigmsigma.org.

8 President Note

Happy Holidays! The end of 2023 is quickly approaching and we are reflecting on all the service that we have done. I am so proud of all that we have accomplished this year. Thank you for all that you have done.

Thank you for all the planning for the upcoming year. 2024 is going to have so many great things. We are an official sponsor of the IMPACT Conference. This conference is designed to engage. College in communications of socioeconomic issues and adstudents for perspectives editor ways that we can solve them. Building on our third principle.

Keep posting your service pictures, celebrations, and welcoming of new members.

We want to celebrate with you. Congratulations to all the graduates! Welcome to all the new members and Happy Holidays to everyone!

Always in Service,

National President

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Lynne Williams

SIGNOTIFICATION: Reports are due January 31st Don’t forget to submit all reports through the national website.

Problems with your account? Contact Techcoordinator@gammasigmasigma.org

SAVE IN CALENDAR

COMPLETED

10 Service Saturday

How to participate in #ServiceSaturday!

Plan or attend a Saturday service project!

Help us join in by posting photos, reels, and stories on your social media accounts.

us tag@gammasigmasigma

Extra. Extra.

We’ve got the Service!

by National Service Director, Eronica King

The attendance in our Unity In Service webinars has been phenomenal. We are averaging 70 members per call!! Thank you for giving me some time in your evenings to learn together! If there is a topic you would like to discuss with the body at large, please reach out to schedule a UIS webinar. WEE want to hear from you, especially our seasoned sorors! You have a wealth of knowledge and that is invaluable to the life of the organization. Topics can be about publicizing service projects, finding accessible projects, balancing life and sorority obligations, being an aging soror, living with a chronic condition, etc. The opportunities are endless!!

It seems like Convention just happened, but we are quickly making our way to Philadelphia 2025! That means we are looking for nominations for Woman of The Year! Who do you know that is making a difference in their community? Who is changing the world and making it a better place? Who do you know that embodies the values of Gamma Sigma Sigma? Who are the movers and shakers in your community? Please consider submitting those persons for consideration. All we ask is that they be willing to attend Convention in-person in Philly.

11 Service Update

It has been a busy first quarter for Gamma Sig!! I have been intentional about cultivating relationships with our National Service Partners. This has been wildly successful thanks to your efforts! In this quarter alone we have completed 12 service projects with our Partners!!!! That is incredible. The members of Gamma Sig never cease to amaze me with the creativity of your service ideas. There are some awesome opportunities on the horizon so keep the creative juices flowing!! Member participation is trending up with each service opportunity. Let’s keep that trend going. There has been some concern from our Alumni members about the accessibility of service opportunities. I hear you!!! Thank you for raising these issues. I’ll be the first to admit that I have blind spots and, without your help, I won’t be able to recognize those.

January is Blood Donor Month. I will be sharing facts about blood donation and the benefits of this selfless act. I’m asking every member who can donate blood. For those who can not donate whole blood, consider platelets or plasma. If there are cultural, religious, or personal reasons you can not donate, reach out to your local blood donation organization and provide some heart-healthy, iron-rich snacks.

National Service Partner, Alex Lemonade Stand Foundation, will host its annual Lemon Ball on January 27, 2024, in Springfield, PA at the Springfield Country Club. I will be joining the Gemini Alumni Chapter in volunteering for this event! The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention has some great opportunities in the month of January. On January 10th, there is Training for Presenters - Introduction to Supporting Those At Risk. This training provides interested volunteers with the information and skills needed to successfully present an Introduction to Supporting Those At Risk in their communities. This would be a great opportunity for Service VPs or Chapter Consultants, but everyone is welcome to be trained.

Here is the link: https://star-training-tn.attendease.com/.

On January 18th, there is More Than Sad: Suicide Prevention Training for Parents. Many of you have children or have children in your lives, and it’s important to be able to recognize the signs that something may be going on with them. This training teaches parents how to recognize signs of depression and other mental health problems, initiate a conversation about mental health with their child, and get help. This program focuses on parents and guardians of teen youth. Here is the link: https://mtsjan.attendease.com/.

National Service Director ad for perspectives editor

Eronica King

12 Service Update

Service Call: Heard “Welcoming a New Partner” Gamma Sigma Sigma x AFSP Researched by GSS Marketing Staff

13 Service Call: Heard

Established in 1987, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is a voluntary health organization that gives those affected by suicide a nationwide community empowered by research, education and advocacy to take action against this leading cause of death.

AFSP is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide, including those who have experienced a loss. AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health by engaging in the following core strategies: Funding scientific research Educating the public about mental health and suicide prevention Advocating for public policies in mental health and suicide prevention Supporting survivors of suicide loss and those affected by suicide As of our 2023 National Convention, The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention was voted by the body as our a new service partner, and we elated at the projects to come to highlight the amazing efforts and successes this partner has accomplished.

Information from AFSP’s Official Website

Call #988

15 #AMAC in the City By #teamAMAC Location: T. H. Slater Elementary School The Atlanta Metropolitan Alumni Chapter of Gamma Sigma Sigma National Service Sorority, most affectionately known as #teamAMAC, hosted our inaugural AMAC in the City Family Festival, bringing smiles, laughter, and a sense of togetherness to the Atlanta community this past August.

Our #AMACintheCity has been a long-standing popular hashtag for our chapter, demonstrating our commitment to serving the greater Atlanta Metropolitan. #teamAMAC was also joined by members of the collegiate chapter Zeta Tau at Georgia State University.

The scent of delectable treats wafted through the air as food trucks lined the perimeter, offering various culinary delights to satisfy every palate. Local vendors added a touch of flair to the event, displaying handcrafted jewelry, artwork, and unique products that showcased the community's creative spirit. Visitors eagerly browsed the stalls, discovering one-of-a-kind treasures while supporting local entrepreneurs and artisans.

The event peaked with a lively dance floor, inspiring people of all ages. The DJ played a mix of classic hits and modern tunes, encouraging even the most reserved individuals to let loose and show off their dance moves.

The success of AMAC in the City was a testament to the strength and vibrancy of AMAC’s commitment to service. In support of our Project IMPACT: Teen and Young Adult Mental Health Awareness, participants left positive notes in a Jar of Joy to share with the T.H. Slater Elementary School students. After the event, the chapter continued supporting the school with donated books and promised to return next year.

Whether it was the thrill of the games, the delight of the food, the joy of shopping with local vendors, or the simple pleasure of dancing under the open sky, AMAC in the City demonstrated that community bonds are strengthened when people come together for a day of family-centered fun.

16 #AMAC in the City

“My ch great p apter does ha roje ve feature cts that can b d nation e ally!”

YOUR CHAPTER/COLONY FEATURED HERE Wanna see your chapter or colonies name in lights? We want to spotlight the great things you are doing, too.

Send Articles to the Marketing Team perspectives@gammasigmsigma.org

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Wee love your gear. Now we want to be apart of helping it get to others.

Advertise in Perspectives. marketing@gammasigmasigma.org

“Wee Care about You!” A World Sucicide Prevention Event

By Eplison Omicron The Epsilon Omicron a World Suicide Prevention Awareness Talk event. September is the month nationally we focus on Suicide Prevention and Awareness. This event was also hosted in recognition of our new national I.M.P.A.C.T area = Teen and Young Adult Mental Health and Awareness.

During this event, members shared valuable tips, resources and information regarding suicide and prevention. After, chapter members engaged within a Kahoot of all the information discussed. At the end of our event, members and attendees drew signs that provided encouragement and uplift. The signs and letters were posted throughout the main student center on campus for students, faculty, staff and administration to see.

17 Wee Care about You

CELEBRATING 71 ACROSS THE GLOBE ON FOUNDERS DAY!

Gamma Nu - Alabama A&M University

19 Founders’ Day

My first founder's week has been so much fun seeing what everyone is doing and how excited they are for this week. I am so excited to be a part of this organization and watch it grow. Just at convection, I was able to make amazing friends, and if it were not for Gamma Sigma Sigma, I would never have. I can't believe I am a part of this amazing organization and able to make friends with everyone. I can’t wait for more founder days in the future my first founder's week has been great, and I can't wait to see where I go in the chapter.

Hailey - Eta Rho

Zeta Psi - Mississippi Valley State University

I’m ecstatic to be celebrating my very first founders’ week as a member of Gamma Sigma Sigma National Service Sorority, Inc. For me, this seems a bit surreal because I never thought I’d have the opportunity to join the first organization I had the opportunity to encounter on the campus of Grambling State University in 2006. It’s a tad bit mesmerizing, as I sit back and recall the amount of work that those ladies put in as they served our campus and had so much fun doing it.

To think I now have the same opportunity to embody service, experience friendship, and embrace equality is an amazing feeling! It’s a privilege to be apart of a community of people who have decided that serving others is a priority. People need our hands, our help, and our hearts. That’s why I’m here.

As I go about founders’ week, I’m taking the time to reflect on and execute the very ideals of our sorority while celebrating that I am an integral partner in that “Unity in Service”!

Dafnee - Sovereign Roses Virtual Alumni Chapter Alpha Psi -Southeast Missouri State University

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Gamma Sigma Sigma National Service Sorority Incorporated | www.gammasigmasigma.org

Reviving the Spirit of Service and Community: The Inspiring Journey of Alpha Pi Chapter Dear Perspectives Staff and Body, I trust this email finds you well. I'm excited to share with you the remarkable story of our reactivating chapter, Alpha Pi, at the University of Wisconsin Stout. My name is Madi Klaja, and I've been privileged to be a part of this journey that has been nothing short of transformative.

Embarking on a new chapter of my life, leaving behind vibrant Atlanta, GA, for the small-town feel of the University of Wisconsin Stout, I brought with me a rich tapestry of community service experiences that have defined my journey. From an early age, I've been immersed in the realm of volunteerism, engaging in a multitude of service organizations that echoed with the harmonious voices of diverse backgrounds and unwavering inclusion. These formative experiences have not only shaped my identity but have also ignited my passion to seek out connections through service as I entered college.

However, as I explored the existing organizations on our campus, I couldn't help but feel that there was something missing – a blend of unity, diversity, and meaningful service. The Greek life scene at Stout appeared exclusive, lacking the passion for service that I sought. On the other hand, the service club, while dedicated to its cause, didn't quite capture the sense of belonging I was seeking. I yearned for a community that combined both these elements – a place where service thrived, bonds were forged, and a family was nurtured.

Enter our extraordinary president, Jayden Kolgen. In the midst of my search, she introduced me to Gamma Sigma Sigma (GSS), an organization I had not encountered before.

She eloquently conveyed how GSS embodied the exact characteristics I was searching for. She shared the history of our campus having had a GSS chapter that had faded away over time. In that moment, I knew that, together, we were destined to rekindle the spirit of GSS on our campus.

21 Alpha Psi S.O.S

This journey commenced in the fall semester of 2022, when I was just a wide-eyed freshman. We embarked on the reactivation process, unaware of the magnitude of effort and energy it would demand.

The path was challenging, laden with paperwork, coordination with national representatives, and liaison with our on-campus advisor. Throughout this endeavor, Jayden stood as a pillar of unwavering determination. She navigated through numerous interactions, adapting even when a new national president was elected during the summer convention. Her dedication has been nothing short of aweinspiring as she tirelessly worked to resurrect this cherished community.

As we stand on the brink of the fall semester of 2024, our efforts are on the cusp of fruition. The prospect of approval is within sight, and we eagerly anticipate commencing recruitment as the semester unfolds. Our ranks already boast 12 dedicated individuals, including myself, poised to not only enhance our community but also extend the warmth of a close-knit family to like-minded students who uphold these shared values.

In closing, the journey of Alpha Pi has been a testament to the unyielding spirit of Jayden Kolgen and the collective ardor of each member who believes in our vision. It's a narrative of empowerment, resilience, and the pursuit of a holistic collegiate experience. We would be honored to share this story with the National Magazine, celebrating the revival of a meaningful community on our campus.

Thank you for considering our tale. We eagerly await your response and remain devoted to the ideals that make Alpha Pi and GSS shine.

Warm regards, Madi Klaja Alpha Pi Chapter University of Wisconsin Stout

Alpha Pi 22 Alpha Psi S.O.S

University of Wisconsin State

A ROUND OF APPLAUSE Building our family is the best part about being a member of our illustrious organization. Please join us in welcoming our newest members of our family!

23 New Additions

Zeta Tau Georgia State University August 25th, 2023

Epsilon Omicron Albany State University August 14th, 2023

Sovereign Rose Virtual Alumni Chapter Alumni Chapter (Virtual) September 19th, 2023

Ask

m m a? a G

A section created for questions or concerns from the body with response from a member of our team after research.(Please understand that we as a staff are excited to answer questions, but frown upon any questions or comments that would lead the body or member(s) in a negative way or manner.)

Submit your questions to marketing@gamma sigmasigma.org

Q: A section created for questions or concerns from the body with response from a member of our team.(Please understand that we as A: a staff are excited to answer questions, but frown upon any questions or comments that would lead the body or member(s) in a negative way or manner.)

T N N O E O M S G E G S IN M O

Q: A section created for questions or concerns from the body with response from a member of our team.(Please understand that we as

A: a staff are excited to answer questions, but frown upon any questions or comments that would lead the body or member(s) in a negative way or manner.)

Q: section created for questions or concerns from the body with response from a member of our team.(Please understand that we as a staff

C

A: are excited to answer questions, but frown upon any questions or comments that would lead the body or member(s) in a negative way or manner.)

A: are excited to answer questions, but frown upon any questions or comments that would lead the body or member(s) in a negative way or manner.)

24 Ask Gamma

Q: A section created for questions or concerns from the body with response from a member of our team.(Please understand that we as a staff

CALLING ALL MEMBERS! LET’S GET OFFICIAL! Award Concepts for 71 years has been creating and selling the official jewelry of our sorority. The official membership pin and several others are sold by this vendor as well.

Visit our jewelry page on their website at www.acgreek.com

Official Jeweler of Gamma Sigma Sigma National Service Sorority Incorporated

Did you know?!

Your chapter has a gammasigmasigma.org email too?

If you are apart of one of our collegiate chapters: Your chapter (GammaNu) At Symbol (@) gammasigmasigma.org

Alumni Directory: Did you know? Your chapter has a gammasigmasigma.org email, too?

Gemini Alums (Philadelphia)

geminialums@gammasigmasigma.org

Greater New England Alums

geneac@gammasigmasigma.org

Mid-Jersey Shore Alums Nutmeg Alums (Connecticut) Philadelphia Alums Bluegrass Alums (Kentucky)

midjerseyshore@gammasigmasigma.org nutmegalums@gammasigmasigma.org philadelphiaalums@gammasigmasigma.org bluegrassalums@gammasigmasigma.org

Greater Garnets Alums

greatergarnetsalums@gammasigmasigma.org

Memphis Pearls Alums (Memphis, TN area)

memphispearlsalums@gammasigmasigma.org

Queen City Alums (Tennessee)

queencityalums@gammasigmasigma.org

River Region Garnets & Pearls Alums (Montgomery, AL)

riverregionalums@gammasigmasigma.org

Cherry Blossom (DC / Virginia area) Greater Baltimore Alums

cherryblossomalums@gammasigmasigma.org greaterbaltimorealums@gammasigmasigma.org

Atlanta Metro Alums

atlantametroalums@gammasigmasigma.org

Greater Atlanta Alums

greateratlantaalums@gammasigmasigma.org

Sanguine & Pearls Virtual Alums (Virtual)

sanguinepearlsvirtualalums@gammasigmasigma.org

Cali White Rose Alums (California)

caliwhiterosealums@gammasigmasigma.org

Houston Bayou City Alums (Houston area)

houstonbayoualums@gammasigmasigma.org

Lone Star Alums (Dallas area)

lonestaralums@gammasigmasigma.org

Southern Pearls Alums (Spring, TX area)

southernpearls@gammasigmasigma.org

Yellow Rose Alums (South Houston / Galveston) Sovereign Roses Virtual Alums (Virtual)

yellowrosealums@gammasigmasigma.org sovereignrosesvirtualalums@gammasigmasigma.org

National Board of Directors Email Directory President - Lynne Williams

president@gammasigmasigma.org

Vice President - Genna Miller

vicepresident@gammasigmasigma.org

Service Director - Eronica King

service@gammasigmasigma.org

Colleigate Expansion Director - Demitria Sanders

expansion@gammasigmasigma.org

Treasurer - Tanja-Maria Harris

treasurer@gammasigmasigma.org

Alumni Director - Genevieve Jones

alumni@gammasigmasigma.org

Marketing Director - Deonna O’Neal

marketing@gammasigmasigma.org

District 1 -Harley Epley

district1@gammasigmasigma.org

District 2 - Catherine Gandolfo

district2@gammasigmasigma.org

District 3 - Ashlynne Malinowski

district3@gammasigmasigma.org

District 4 - Melinda Ostrow

district4@gammasigmasigma.org

District 5 - Amanda McCann

district5@gammasigmsigma.org

District 6 - Kierra Smaller

district6@gammasigmasigma.org

District 7 - Lanay Caver

district7@gammasigmasigma.org

District 8 - Jessieca Gafford Carr

district8@gammasigmasigma.org

District 9 - LaMonica Scott

district9@gammasigmasigma.org

Technology Coordinator - Lelar Corbett

techcoordinator@gammasigmasigma.org

Parliamentarian- Savannah Chastain

parliamentarian@gammasigmasigma.org

Administrative Assistant - Jo Charest

admin@gammasigmasigma.org

Official Website Official Instagram Official Facebook Page + Group Official Linked In

www.gammasigmasigma.org www.instagram.com/gammasigmasigma www.facebook.com/gammasigmasigma and Gamma Sigma Sigma (Official Group) www.linkedin.com/gammasigmasigma