Perspectives 61.2 (Spring 2014)

NATIONAL NEWSLETTER FOR

GAMMA SIGMA SIGMA

PERSPECTIVES N AT I O N A L S E R V I C E S O R O R I T Y

SPRING 2014 | VOLUME 61, ISSUE 2

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ALPHA IOTA (DULUTH, MN)

NATIONAL CONFERENCES WHO WILL YOU MARCH FOR? HEALTHY LIVING NATIONWIDE ALUMNI IN ACTION

Atlanta sets tone for

BY JENNIFER BAKER National Program Director

CONFERENCE SEASON

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Highlights include special presentations from Samantha Scully from the Atlanta Office of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and Larissa Brown, a ACSM Health and Fitness Specialist.

Samantha brought awareness and provided resources to encourage Gamma Sigma Sigma’s involvement within the MADD organization. She brought a special guest to share candid information, that none of the attendees will forget. Larissa addressed our Healthy Living Project I.M.P.A.C.T. area by teaching us new ways to incorporate healthy living in our busy lives.

Gamma Kappa won $100 for the National Video Contest. They created a 45 second video that shared general information about GSS and how our sorority is making a difference.

Visit the sorority’s YouTube channel to view the video: youtube.com/ gammasigmasigma.

If you have not had a chance to meet National Board of Director members - you will not want to miss attending a conference. The workshops are presented by various National Board members, which provides a face-to-face experience that most organizations do not have. Not only that, but conference allows you to learn more about them individually, our organization’s leadership, and ways you can stay committed to service throughout your membership.

PHOTO CREDIT: GREEKYEARBOOK.COM

he 2014 conference season is underway and you do not want to miss out. The season kicked off in Atlanta, Georgia on February 7th with over 150 attendees, the biggest turnout to a Conference to date.

Simply put, it was beyond amazing!

As the conference season continues, the sorority anticipates that you will enjoy the workshops and bonding experiences. Please locate the upcoming conferences in your area and be sure to register. Don’t forget travel pool was increased to $250, this biennium and it can be applied directly to your registration costs.

I look forward to meeting you all this conference season. Visit our national website for additional information at www.gammasigmasigma.org.

Register today!

April 26, 2014

Elizabethtown, NJ (Alumni Conference)

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PRESIDENT Karen Kerr president@gammasigmasigma.org VICE PRESIDENT Ranita Lopez vicepresident@gammasigmasigma.org SERVICE DIRECTOR Auriela Spaulding service@gammasigmasigma.org TREASURER Jennifer Wilson treasurer@gammasigmasigma.org MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR Ashley Jennings membership@gammasigmasigma.org ALUMNI DIRECTOR Karen Erickson alumni@gammasigmasigma.org PROGRAM DIRECTOR Jennifer Baker program@gammasigmasigma.org MARKETING DIRECTOR TBD marketing@gammasigmasigma.org

A Message from Our President It’s been 61 years since the first issue of Gamma Gossip came out in February 1953. It was a combination of typed and handwritten articles. On the front page of that issue, a request was made to the members to submit information that would ‘be of interest to the sorority’. Gamma Gossip was considered the voice of GSS and it was published monthly.

Deb Folsom, alumni-at-large, accepted the staff appointment of National Archivist last summer. One of the things that Deb has shared with me is the first issue of Gamma Gossip. To read the words that those women wrote made me feel like I was in 1953 with them - excited about the future. Check out the national website to read the stories from that article, including “A Dream Come True”.

KAREN KERR National President

Our second Conference was held in Dallas on February 21-22, 2014, exactly 61 years since the first sectional conference was held at Drexel Institute of Technology. This get together was called “Going National” and one of the important matters they discussed was revisions to the constitution which were suggested by Queens College. Before they had the sectional, Brooklyn College, Queens College and New York University students met on February 17, 1953 to also discuss the proposed revisions.

One of the workshops from the 2014 conferences is titled “Setting the Record Straight: Our Story – Facts, Myths & Traditions” and it is a great way to learn more about our history.

DISTRICT 1 DIRECTOR Cortney Deshaies district1@gammasigmasigma.org DISTRICT 2 DIRECTOR Jenna Hershelman district2@gammasigmasigma.org DISTRICT 3 DIRECTOR Ashley Robinson district3@gammasigmasigma.org DISTRICT 4 DIRECTOR Keli Connor district4@gammasigmasigma.org DISTRICT 5 DIRECTOR Katy Haynes Owens district5@gammasigmasigma.org DISTRICT 6 DIRECTOR Tanisha Cousby district6@gammasigmasigma.org DISTRICT 7 DIRECTOR Danielle Timmons district7@gammasigmasigma.org DISTRICT 8 DIRECTOR Cristal Johnson district8@gammasigmasigma.org PARLIAMENTARIAN Demetria Curry parliamentarian@gammasigmasigma.org

Interested members encouraged to

JOIN COMMITTEES As we are halfway through our first year of the biennium, it is already time again to start thinking about joining a committee.

Committees are a great way to begin your leadership journey within Gamma Sigma Sigma, meet new people who share similar interests, and make a contribution to the betterment of the sorority. Your opinions and ideas always count and make a difference!

As we get closer to the end of spring, there will be another communication about committee vacancies to fill for the beginning of our second half of the biennium. So, start thinking about what committees to join today!

RANITA LOPEZ National Vice President

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TOP 5 REASONS TO GET INVOLVED: 5. Meeting other members with similar interests.

4. Opportunities to learn new life skills! National involvement helps with public speaking among other traits.

3. Your ideas and opinions do count and you have the opportunity to directly communicate it to other sorority leaders.

2. Committee and assistant involvement can be a “gateway” to serve on the National Board of Directors. The sorority is always in need of new leaders.

1. Knowing that what you do, no matter how big or small, MAKES A DIFFERENCE! To sign up for a committee, visit www.gammasigmasigma.org/prospective_workers

Who will you MARCH FOR?

BY TANJA BIBBS uring the seventh biennium, the Perspectives Editor national sorority selected March of Dimes® (MOD) as the national project for the term. Ever since then, the organization has been a constant in Gamma Sigma Sigma’s service with it being adopted as a standing national project in 1967. For over 45 years, members have raised money, devoted many minutes and countless hours towards the cause of March of Dimes®. The organization prides itself on being a resource and source of support for parents having full-term pregnancies. Gamma Sigma Sigma is proud to support the cause of MOD and help raise money towards programs that help such a worthy cause.

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March for Babies®, the premier fundraising effort of March of Dimes®, is held in many communities across the nation and there is without a doubt members of Gamma Sigma Sigma will be walking the trails amongst the crowds. For over 25 years, the Mid-Jersey Shore Alumni Chapter has been supporting the March for Babies® event. The members often help out with registration, set-up, and tallying up the money fundraised. The chapter has so much fun meeting the walkers and other supporters they continue the tradition each year. Many March for Babies® walks will be kicking off this spring and if you or your chapter has not begun already, it is time to fundraise!

“I volunteer for the March of Dimes® in order to help fight for stronger, healthier babies and to ensure that every baby is born healthy.

Seeing the effects of prematurity by volunteering in the NICU motivates me to continuously find ways to support this cause” - Anastasia Morrison

March for Babies® is just one component of March of Dimes®. Among other advocacy outlets, the organization assembles at the national level to rally for change. Just last fall, President Obama signed the PREEMIE Reauthorization Act which allows critical research and necessary education related to preterm birth to continue. News such as this counts as another milestone for the MOD organization and just reaffirms how important their advocacy work is to the future population of America.

For more information about March of Dimes, visit www.marchofdimes.org.

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GSS ENCOURAGES HEALTHY LIVING ON SMALL AND

BY TANJA BIBBS LARGE SCALES Perspectives Editor

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new year will always trigger new life goals, especially those that are centered on health. The sorority’s Project I.M.P.A.C.T. area, Healthy Living, serves to address national concerns by focusing on overall health and wellness. Healthy Living promotes the enhancement of physical, emotional, and mental health and encourages members to employ those tenets not only individually, but to local communities.

Promoting the feeling of fit can be accomplished by organizing walks or even fitness competitions. Our very own Dannielle (Danni) Allen, recent winner of NBC’s The Biggest Loser, can attest to the positive results from feeling fit by drawing from her experiences with the televised competition. Personal afflictions caused Danni to evaluate how she was treating her body and she vowed to make a change--and she did. Danni, who joined Epsilon Beta as a sophomore in 2010, tried out for the 14th season of The Biggest Loser and endured a diet and exercise regimen that had a lasting impact. Danni notes the outpouring of love and acknowledgement from fellow Gamma Sigma

Spaulding appointed as

NATIONAL SERVICE DIRECTOR

Sigma members were motivating factors in her quest to lose weight and persevere on the show. “When I would see a tweet from a fellow member, it just melted my heart and reminded me that there is a nationwide bond,” said Danni.

This past semester, Beta Gamma focused on enriching the emotional health of their campus community by focusing on the ‘Feel Good’ aspect of Healthy Living. The chapter extended positive messages and motivating quotes around the University of Delaware’s campus to be in an inspiration to others for that day. In a time where students are being bullied and face other peer-related issues, Beta Gamma was able to meet a need and promote a healthier mental environment at no cost to the students.

Chapters and colonies are encouraged to continue to think outside the box and make a difference that only we know how to do. Support your local community by helping them to Feel Good, Feel Fit, and Feel Free while you are striving to Meet a Need!

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ervice would be the rock upon which friendship and equality was built.” It is this piece of my favorite quote from Barbara V. Ferraro that motivates me to continue to serve, and led me to serving in this position. I truly believe that as long as we have service as the foundation of our work, then we will continue to be successful as a national service sorority.

In is an honor to introduce myself as Gamma Sigma Sigma’s newly appointed National Service Director. As a member of Gamma Sigma Sigma, I was previously recognized with awards, such as the Distinguished Service Award, Outstanding Collegiate Award, and Char Scott National Outstanding Volunteer Award. I also worked alongside my collegiate chapter, Beta Sigma, to earn first place in the Barbara Ferraro Award for Outstanding Collegiate Service Program in 2005 and 2007, then as an advisor in 2009.

AURIELA SPAULDING Professionally, I am certified in volunteer management, interact with more than 50 nonprofit leaders, and lead National Service Director approximately 40 students on a regular basis. I plan to use my experience with developing relationships with nonprofits locally to create and maintain relationships with nonprofits at a national level. My experience working with collegiate and alumni of civic organizations on their service plans will be incorporated as I assist chapters, colonies, and alumni-at-large with their involvement in the community.

Current and newly elected Service Vice Presidents, please mark your calendar to participate in our webinar meeting. You can attend April 1st at 7:00pm CST/8:00pm EST or April 22nd at 7:00pm CST/8:00pm EST. Alumni-at-large, look forward to hearing more about our Serve 100 Challenge. In addition, I plan to share more resources on developing your chapter/colony service programs, opportunities to work with Project IMPACT areas, and project ideas for service partners. You will be able to find more service resources on our website, and I look forward to talking to members about their service needs. Expect to hear more about the Mission Trip Funding, and please make plans to submit nominations for the Woman Tuesday, April 1st Tuesday, April 22nd of the Year and Distinguished Service Award.

7:00pm CST / 8:00pm EST 7:00pm CST / 8:00pm EST We have a busy next few months, and I look Register at http://bit.ly/gssapril01 Register at http://bit.ly/gssapril22 forward to working with you.

Service VP Webinars

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The MAROON

AND WHITE TOWEL starts its adventure

THIS YEAR

CHAPTERS • COLONIES • ALUMNI-AT-LARGE AT SERVICE PROJECTS • AT SOCIAL EVENTS DURING SPECIAL OCCASIONS

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tart sharing your Gamma Sigma Sigma experiences this year with the adventures of the Maroon and White towel. In the upcoming month, each chapter/colony will receive a maroon and white towel in the mail, and alumni-in-large can pay for shipping to have one sent to you. Members are encouraged to take photos with their towel to display the GSS spirit in our members. Photos can be taken at service projects, social events, meetings, interchapter meetings, and more. Once you

BY AURELIA SPAULDING National Service Director

take the photos, email them to marketing@gammasigmasigma.org. We will include photos in the Perspectives and on the national website. If you choose to add your photos on social media, please use the hashtag #gammasigmasigma.

The Adventures of the Maroon and White Towel is a great way to connect Gamma Sigma Sigma members and celebrate our spirit of service. Pull out your camera and start showing your spirit now!

CONNECTED in GAMMA SIGMA SIGMA New ways to stay

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ixty-two percent of our Gamma Sigma Sigma chapters and colonies are on social media, according to research by Maria Lopez, Ashley Robinson, Jeanine Cruz, and Valerie Perez.

Chapters and colonies are using Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram, and more to share photos, stories, and other news about their activities. If your chapter or colony has a Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, or Instagram account, please let us know by emailing socialmedia@gammasigmasigma.org or adding your information to our directory online. You can also scan the QR code to go directly to the form.

Help us find you online. According to the sorority’s social media guidelines and standards, chapters should start their Facebook page with Gamma Sigma Sigma. For example, the Omega Omega Chapter would have a page titled Gamma Sigma Sigma

“Follow” us on Instagram @gammasigmasigma

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BY AURELIA SPAULDING National Service Director

Omega Omega Chapter. For chapter’s with Twitter and Instagram, start your handle with gss.

For example, @gssusc or @gss_omegaomega. It is recommended to use the school letters on the Twitter and Instagram so that your handle is shorter.

When you follow the GSS Social Media Standards, it helps all Gamma Sigma Sigma members find you easier online.

“Follow” us on Twitter @gammasigmasigma

DISTRICT 2 SPIRIT DAY FAST APPROACHING

BY JENNA HERSHELMAN District 2 Director

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istrict II Spirit Day is being hosted by the Gamma Phi Chapter at St. Francis University in Loretto, PA on March 29, 2014 from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm.

The cost is $10 per member and the deadline to register is March 15th. If you have any questions, please contact Abby at anm105@francis.edu. They look forward to seeing everyone there!

DISTRICT 3 SPIRIT DAY ON THE HORIZON FOR 2015

BY ASHLEY ROBINSON District 3 Director

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istrict 3 will hold a Spirit Day in March 2015. This biennium, District 3 Spirit Day will be held in Southern New England to allow all chapters in the district to be within a more convenient driving distance. District 3 Spirit Day will take place over a weekend and will include an overnight stay for attendees. District 3 Chapters in attendance will be able to learn and share from each other, complete a service project, enjoy inter-chapter game night, trade university and chapter apparel and swag, and personalize their own Gamma Sig crafts! District 3 Sprit Day 2015 will not be one to miss. Details will be available in fall 2014.

DISTRICT 4 PLANS SPIRIT DAY, LEADERSHIP RETREAT, AND SERVICE WEEK

BY KELI CONNOR District 4 Director

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o you lose your momentum during the summer? Need to plan for the upcoming school year and want to bounce some ideas off your fellow members? Need those service hours to jump start your semester back to school? Join District 4 at the first ever District 4 Spirit Day, Leadership Retreat, and Service Week. The week will be directed toward anyone that wants to join us in District 4 that needs assistance in planning and executing their calendars for the next school year as well as a focus on Leadership Training and of course service, service and more service!

At the end of the week, members will receive a certificate of participation and a letter to certify the amount of service hours that participated in. The projects will be diverse in time and the organizations served. The week is scheduled for July 16th through the 22nd in Greensboro, NC. Each day will have at least one hands on service project. Two days will be devoted to a Leadership Style Training and one day will be devoted to learning more about your chapter and planning for the upcoming year. Also, one of the District 4 Spirit Days will be during the week. There will be tools and resources there to assist you with creating calendars and planning. Lunch will be provided every day and there is no cost for attendance to any of the events. There will be more information to follow about the agenda and the service events that will take place.

If you are interested or have any questions, please email District 4 Director Keli Connor at district4@gammasigmasigma.org.

DISTRICT 5 SPIRIT DAY SET FOR FALL

BY KATY OWEN District 5 Director

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he 2013 – 2015 biennium District 5 Spirit Day will be held in fall 2014. Though details are still being set, District 5 chapters can plan to travel to Bowling Green, KY for the event! Collegiate and alumni members can anticipate a full day of fellowship and service, including service projects that honor this biennium’s commitment to Healthy Living and Domestic Violence Prevention. Fellowship activities will allow collegiate and alumni members from chapters all around District V to mingle and share ideas! Additionally, lunch will be provided, so that costs can be minimized for all attendees. Plan on attending this biennium’s Spirit Day, so that you do not miss out!

COME ONE, COME ALL TO DISTRICT 8’S SERVICE CARNIVAL

BY CRISTAL JOHNSON District 8 Director

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he must see and do event of the year is here! All chapters are invited to enjoy the fun. The District 8 Service Carnival is designed to bring together various community entities to complete a variety of service projects. Many people and groups are limited on the projects they can do because of resources such as time and availability. The carnival eliminates those challenges by offering over 10 different service projects in one location, in one place, and at one time. It will be held in Houston, TX on April 12, 2014, so be on the lookout for more information!

Community Service Booths List (Subject to Change) 1. “Fitness for 60” teaching kids a variety of activities they can do for 60 minutes a day to play and be fit, such as jumping rope, basketball, relay races, WII, and sports.

2. “Plateful Pantry” canned good collection and sorting.

3. “Hygiene Love” sorting of toiletries for distribution to the homeless.

4. “Coat of Many Colors” sorting clothes for distribution to those in need.

5. Alex’s Lemonade Stand 6. Concession Stand - Participants can earn tickets by completing various projects and using those tickets for food items.

7. “Cards of Caring” making encouragement cards for patients at the VA, nursing homes, cancer centers, women’s shelter, and more.

8. “Hug Me” collecting stuffed toys and placing a note of support on the item to be given to children recovering from national disasters, health challenges, and abuse.

9. “Pass the time” Magazine addresses label removal. The magazines will be given to various dialysis centers throughout Houston for patients to read during their treatment time.

10. “Raise your Hand” tutoring elementary and middle school students in various subjects.

11. “Nurture & Nature Care” decorating flower pots and putting plants/ flowers inside. The arrangement is given to a local senior care center.

12. “Change for Change” the monies collected will be donated to Easter Seals and March of Dimes.

13. “Bookworm” books are collected and donated to various literacy programs.

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O LO RN N ER Y

CO C

Membership Committee working hard to develop colonies and reactivating chapters

The colonies and reactivating chapters of Gamma Sigma Sigma are looking forward to the spring semester. This is an exciting time for everyone as the sorority is working towards new goals and opportunities.

The Wright State University Colony in Dayton, OH and The University of North Florida Colony in Jacksonville, FL are both completing their final semester towards charter status.

Additionally, several colonies and groups are participating in member-in-training periods, so please anticipate welcoming them to our sorority!

a reactivating chapter on its way… and it might just be… yes, a founding chapter! A big, wonderful thank you to the Membership Committee members who have helped provide district information for prospective new groups. We are actively scouting the country to see where a new Gamma Sigma Sigma colony or reactivating chapter will be.

Colleges and universities are reaching out to us and we have several groups waiting to join Gamma Sigma Sigma. There is

SAVE THE DATE!

ASHLEY JENNINGS National Membership Director

SERVICE: MUSIC TO MY EARS 32nd National Convention July 8-12 2015 • Nashville, TN

Donate your sorority memorabilia to the Gamma Sigma Sigma National Archives!

Whether you are an alumni member from the 1950s, 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s or even 2000s, we would love to have chapter and national items to help preserve our sorority’s history for future members to be able to view. If you have any items, including photos, chapter documents or other sorority related items you would like to donate, please send them to: Deborah Folsom, National Archivist 2450 121st Avenue • Clear Lake MN 55319

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BY KAREN ERICKSON, National Alumni Director

Y N O ER

L N CO R CO

New alumni colonies and reactivating chapters added to sorority family

Two new alumni colonies and two new reactivating alumni chapters have had their petitions accepted since Convention 2013: • • • •

The Cherry Blossom Reactivating Alumni Chapter is located in Washington D. C. The Hampton Roads Alumni Colony is located in southern Virginia and northern North Carolina.

The Southern New England Alumni Colony is located in Rhode Island, Connecticut and Massachusetts.

The Pine Tree Reactivating Alumni Chapter is located in Maine.

These new additions are looking forward to joining our family of alumni chapters as they work toward chartering.

Requirements for interest groups include gathering a minimum of six alumni who want to continue with service within our organization, host service projects and meet to organize by choosing officers and writing bylaws and standing rules prior to completing the petition with the Alumni Director. Any alumni interested in starting a new interest group or joining a current alumni chapter or colony should contact the Alumni Director at alumni@gammasigmasigma.org.

Lamar University Colony tickled pink about Color Run BEAUMONT, TX - Lamar University Colony has been active

this past fall. Members partook in partnering with the Willie Carter Outreach Center, of Port Arthur Texas, to host their 13th annual “Back to School” fair. The city-wide youth explosion’s theme was “A Healthy Start to School.” This free event ensured that children grades K-12 received school supplies. Colony members oversaw registration, greeting, and serving healthy refreshments to the students and parents.

Over 500 individuals attended and participated. The Colony is looking forward to partnering up with the outreach center next summer.

The Colony also participated in the Julie Rogers Gift of Life Color Run as the pink color team. This event was a great way to get messy for a good cause. Members tossed pink washable powder on passing runners. The program has funded more than 20,000 free mammograms, and conducted 1,000 educational outreach encounters reaching more than 120,000 individuals in Southeast Texas.

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CHATTER

collegiate

ALPHA PSI LOOKS TO WORK WITH NEW PHILANTHROPY BACKSTOPPERS

BETA GAMMA SUPPORTS HEALTHY LIVING

NEWARK, DE - This past semester the Beta Gamma Chapter was honored to raise money to benefit the Delaware Foundation Reaching Citizens with Disabilities and they will continue to support them in the next semester as well. To support them, they held multiple fundraisers such as a super fun coffee house and stylish clothing sale. The members have also decided to support the Project I.M.P.A.C.T. area of Healthy Living by having unity zumba, yoga, hikes and many more healthy activities!

CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO - The Alpha Psi Chapter had a very busy and eventful fall 2013 semester! The chapter activated 36 new members and completed a total of 2,329 service hours!

They were very involved with Project I.M.P.A.C.T., completing 182 hours towards domestic violence awareness and 290 hours towards healthy living. Eleven members also traveled to Washington, IL to help with tornado relief. It was a weekend trip that consisted of cleaning up debris left by the tornado and helping out a dispersal center of goods for those affected.

In the spring, the chapter looks forward to completing many more service projects for local and national organizations, including Relay for Life and Dance Marathon. Their philanthropy this year will incorporate the Cape Girardeau community to benefit the BackStoppers, a Greater St. Louis area charity that provides financial and emotional support to the families of public safety workers who have died while on duty.

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One of the ways Beta Gamma spread the Gamma Love throughout the campus was to write inspirational messages, posting them everywhere to give everyone some cheer! They also started Penguin Pals, a pen pal program with other chapters of Gamma Sigma Sigma throughout the country! And who can forget that they doubled in size with over 100 Members-inTraining and hope to welcome many more this next semester!

ZETA SIGMA RAISES MONEY AND AWARENESS FOR ANTI-BULLYING CAUSE WESTMINSTER, MD - After Gamma Sigma Sigma’s National Convention in St. Louis in July 2013, Zeta Sigma was ready for Unity Day. Unity Day is a national awareness day to stand up against bullying, and there were many ways to show support for this cause. At McDaniel College, the Zeta Sigma Chapter raised awareness by sponsoring a donation table from October 2nd through the 9th. At the table, members sold orange ribbons that could be worn or tied around belongings to show support.

The chapter raised $96.30 through sales or outright donations.

It was one of the most successful charity donation programs the chapter has seen! All proceeds were given to PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center to help end bullying in elementary schools. National Bullying Prevention Month brought together the community and provided a great service opportunity that was enjoyed by all!

BETA SIGMA HOSTS SERVICE ACTIVITIES IN WKU RESIDENCE HALLS

DELTA NU CLEANS UP ACADIA NATIONAL PARK

BOWLING GREEN, KY - The Beta Sigma Chapter of Western Kentucky University (WKU) is experiencing great things! Last year one of the members came up with a great idea to host a powder puff game involving the community to raise money for March of Dimes. The event was a success and the chapter has decided to make the game an annual event.

The chapter has also started once a month service projects in the campus residence halls. Tables were set-up in the halls allowing residents and guests to participate in a community service activity. The last time the chapter did this, WKU students made infinity scarves for the elderly in nursing homes, bookmarks with encouraging words to keep youth motivated to read and wrote letters to the military. It was a great turn out and the chapter hopes to keep it going.

Last but certainly not least, Beta Sigma took in new members last semester! The chapter now has five new additions to represent the ideals of the sorority. Beta Sigma hopes to continue to keep the service and excitement higher and higher by serving all humanity!

ORONO, ME - In November, the Delta Nu Chapter at the University of Maine traveled down to Acadia National Park for the day to participate in the annual Take Pride in Acadia Day! Take Pride in Acadia Day is a yearly event at Acadia National Park where people from all over Maine volunteer to spend the day cleaning up Acadia. Volunteers spend the day raking leaves on the historic carriage roads of Acadia to help the park prepare for the winter. Members of Delta Nu chapter contributed to the cause and were lucky enough to enjoy some homemade chili provided by Friends of Acadia after their hard work. This was the first year the Delta Nu chapter participated and they cannot wait to return for the next Take Pride in Acadia Day!

ZETA XI PARTICIPATES IN UNITY DAY DAHLONEGA, GA - Last semester, Zeta Xi recognized Unity Day 2013 on the campus of North Georgia College and State University. The chapter set up a table for people to come and learn about what Unity Day was and how the PACER Center helps with preventing child bullying. The chapter gave out orange ribbons for people to wear and also created a chain of orange. Each person wrote something that made them unique on the slip and they were stapled together. A couple of examples of what made people unique: “Caution: Blonde Thinking” and “I sleep a lot.” It was definitely a success and the chapter loved educating people on campus about PACER and how they can help prevent bullying among children.

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CHATTER

collegiate

EPSILON BETA VOLUNTEERS TO HOST HISTORIC TOURS

CLEMSON, SC - Clemson, SC - The Epsilon Beta Chapter at Clemson University have made an effort to connect with local organizations. One of the most amazing opportunities the chapter had came from the Pendleton Historic Society in Pendleton, SC, only ten minutes from the Clemson campus.

The chapter was asked to volunteer at a plantation home owned by the society that is open for tours throughout the year. At the home named Ashtabula, the organization puts on a Christmas event that turns the home into a scene from the late 1800s.

The members of the Epsilon Beta Chapter got to dress in clothes from the time period and provide guests with a tour of the home. The chapter also got the opportunity to be on the Greenville, SC news channel the Friday morning before the event. Visit this link to see the clips from broadcast: http://www.foxcarolina.com/story/24154204/pendleton-house.

It was a great event to support and a great way to spread GSS!

“Like” us on facebook.com/ gammasigmasigma

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EPSILON NU EMPOWERS YOUTH AND BRINGS AWARENESS TO HOMELESSNESS

DAYTONA BEACH, FL - The Epsilon Nu Chapter of participated in a “Youth Empowerment Day” at Pine Haven living facility. Pine Haven is a low- income apartment complex in Daytona Beach, FL. Most people would find that it is a bit challenging to go to such a place, but the members of Epsilon Nu thought otherwise. The chapter went into the clubhouse of this apartment complex with about 50 young girls to teach steps, dances and most of all unity within their community.

The Keeping Atlanta Warm Movement began as an effort to assist the millions of homeless people in Atlanta, GA. Members of Epsilon Nu were moved by the movement since they often feed the homeless and they decided to spread the project to Daytona Beach by hosting “No Sock Day”. Members encouraged students of Bethune Cookman University to share their socks instead of wearing them in hopes of touching a heart. The chapter collected over 40 pairs of socks to distribute to those in need.

ETA RHO CAPTURES HOW THE UNDEAD LIVE

NORFOLK, VA - The Eta Rho Chapter at Old Dominion University (ODU) worked on a “Healthy Living” video that was shown to the campus during a university wide campaign to promote healthier living. The theme for the campaign is about how the undead live. The video highlights that if the undead can do it, then so can we, as the undead trained for the Zombie Twilight 5k! The video won first place and the chapter won $500. The video can be viewed on YouTube at http://youtu.be/q-ucKWAHUt8.

Eta Rho also coordinated with ODU’s Women’s Center to fight against domestic violence through their Annual Relationship Red Flag. Members lined the campus with red flacks and encouraged the community, friends, and family to not be afraid to speak up if they see a relationship “red flag”. The chapter also highlighted the importance of responsible fun and safety by handing out treat-filled bags to students with drunk driving statistics in support of MADD.

GAMMA PI SPREADS LOVE IN HONOR OF MLK JR.

JEFFERSON CITY, TN - “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, “what are you doing for others?”” said Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This past January, Gamma Pi members worked at a MLK Day of Service on their campus at Carson-Newman University (CNU). Students were asked to create Valentine’s Day cards for the elderly in the local Jefferson City area. Within two hours CNU students, including Gamma Sigma Sigma members, were able to make over 200 cards to be distributed for the upcoming holiday. Gamma Pi enjoyed honoring Dr. King’s legacy while spending a Saturday morning serving those who need it most. The MLK Day of service was an excellent reminder of what Gamma Sigma Sigma is all about; service, friendship and equality.

GAMMA KAPPA SHOWS NEW MEMBERS A “PASSPORT TO POSSIBILITIES” KNOXVILLE, TN - This past semester, the Gamma Kappa Chapter became 25 new members’ “passport to possibilities.” The chapter rounded out their rush week with a Parisian style picnic. Last semester’s Member-in-Training project to support their local philanthropy, the Salvation Army, was a scavenger hunt across Tennessee’s campus called Race Through Rocky Top. In addition to the philanthropy project, members of Gamma Kappa served weekly at the Salvation Army, Ronald McDonald House, and the Boy’s and Girl’s Club. Many of them also participated in Race for the Cure. For the sorority’s Founders’ Day, Gamma Kappa celebrated in the Sunsphere in the World’s Fair Park with a luncheon. To finish out the semester, they had an elegant long-dress formal at Castleton Farms in Lenior City, TN.

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ALUMNI IN ACTION AMAC REFLECTS ON A SERVICE FILLED YEAR

KAREN ERICKSON National Alumni Director

VIRTUAL ALUMNI CHAPTER TARGETS AAL An idea that has been discussed for several years is having a virtual or online alumni chapter. Action began on this idea during the fall of 2013. Under the direction of Alumni Assistant Jennifer Covington, a committee began planning and laying the ground work for such a group. The aim is to connect alumni-at-large who do not have access to a local chapter. The officers of this chapter would determine service projects which members then could complete in their local communities.

Business meetings would be held by Skype or conference calls. All communication would be by email, text or phone calls. The interest group would be granted colony status once a petition is completed and they would go through a colonization period like all other colonies. All obligations of a chapter, including national membership fees, travel pool, reports, and bylaws and standing rules, would be required. The first official meeting of this group was January 26, 2014. Any alumni-at-large interested in joining this colony should contact Karen Erickson, Alumni Director, at alumni@gammasigmasigma.org.

ATLANTA, GA - The Atlanta Metropolitan Alumni Chapter enjoyed every second of service in 2013! AMAC brought the “fun” back in fundraising by teaming up with California Pizza Kitchen, Pinkberry and successfully implementing the Bowling for Babies charity event. AMAC members enjoyed a spring retreat in Atlanta and a fall cabin retreat in Clemson, SC. Members participated in the Color Run Atlanta, the Heart Walk, the United Way Shoebox Project and the Atwood Community Garden Cleanup during the 2013 Atlanta Greek Picnic Weekend. AMAC’s social media presence allowed the chapter to actively promote awareness for Breast Cancer, Lupus, Antibullying, and Prematurity while interacting with other chapters of Gamma Sigma Sigma. AMAC was represented at the 31st National Convention where they were recognized for service with the American Cancer Society, March of Dimes and the American Red Cross. The members of AMAC look forward to another successful year of Unity in Service for 2014!

BLUEGRASS ALUMNI RAISES AWARENESS ON NATIONAL WEAR RED DAY BOWLING GREEN, KY - Bluegrass Alumni members finished 2013 with the spirit of giving. Members donated Thanksgiving baskets to those in need and also provided presents to a Teen Angel during Christmas. The chapter also delivered food and other items to B.R.A.S.S., a local domestic violence shelter. Bluegrass Alumni is hoping to partner with Beta Sigma of Western Kentucky University to host an event for B.R.A.S.S. in the future to keep their giving momentum going. Members recently participated in “Go Red for Women” by wearing red to raise awareness about heart disease in women.

The chapter is excited to participate in other activities that support the Project I.M.P.A.C.T. areas and the sorority’s service partners.

Any alumni-at-large who think this group does nott fit their service commitment can still do service for the national organization by completing the Alumni-at-Large Service Report. Alumni-at-large in the same community are also encouraged to do service together, without chapter affiliation, and then report their hours individually on the same report form.

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MID-JERSEY SHORE ALUMNI PARTNERS WITH JERSEY CARES AND BRIDGES OUTREACH

HOUSTON BAYOU HOSTS SIGNIFICANT SOCIAL IN HONOR OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS HOUSTON, TX - On January 11, 2014, the Houston Bayou City Alumni Chapter sponsored the Sanguine & Pearls Serenity Spa which targeted people that have been affected by domestic abuse. There were thirty-one people in attendance including alumni and collegiate GSS members, youth and special guests. The purpose of the event, organized by member Dee Foley, was to encourage, uplift, motivate and pamper while at the same time educating all about Domestic Violence Abuse and Prevention.

There were interactive workshops: “Friendship” Mary Kay Facials and “Service” Satin Hands by Linda Edwards, “Clasped Hands” Card Creations for Abused by Kim Topps, ”Equality” Education & Elaboration by Lucretia Tate McGee, and a panel discussion. All in attendance received educational materials, Avon and Mary Kay home spa treatment products and spa favors. Youth hosts Jordan, Jessica and Jada McGee made and served healthy fruit smoothies and a healthy meal for all. Gamma Sigma Sigma made a serious IMPACT!

NEW JERSEY - Mid-Jersey Shore Alumni Chapter’s newest service initiatives are in support of several deserving service agencies. Jersey Cares supplies ‘First Night Kits’ to needy individuals who are in difficult or crisis circumstances such as domestic violence, safe houses for runaways, foster homes and transitional housing facilities.

Members of the chapter rallied together to prepare kits for those in need. The other initiative Mid-Jersey Shore adopted, Bridges Outreach, Inc., provides sustainable lunches to the homeless in the community. Members collected savory snacks and other food items to be delivered through the program. The chapter anticipates a very satisfying partnership with the agencies as they support their great programs.

Nutmeg Alumni put together 21 toiletry goods bags for the Center for Women and Children of Fairfield County. This is a I.M.P.A.C.T. project, as the Center provides resources for survivors of domestic violence. Pictured are Donna Fazzino and Patricia Bruhn with the bags.

TARHEEL STATE SERVES PROJECT I.M.P.A.C.T. AREAS NORTH CAROLINA - It was a wonderful fall season for the Tarheel State Alumni Chapter. The chapter doubled in size while working on a variety of service projects.

The group wrote letters to soldiers, volunteered at The Ronald McDonald House, and donated healthy food items and gift cards to local families in need during the holidays. One of the chapter’s favorite service projects was when the chapter collected items for the Family Service of the Peidmont, a women’s domestic violence shelter.

In the upcoming months, the chapter looks forward to working with North Carolina Central University with their Nutrition Club to work on a variety of “healthy living” projects. The chapter is excited to be attending the conference in Alexandria, VA.

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GAMMA SIGMA SIGMA PO BOX 248 Rindge, NH 03461 Change Service Requested

ALUMNI IN ACTION WHITE ROSE ALUMNI READY TO FUNDRAISE FOR OPERATION STAND DOWN NASHVILLE, INC. NASHVILLE, TN - The White Rose Alumni Chapter welcomed three new members Michelle Daughtry, Brooke Haynes, and Kristen Staten into their chapter last year. White Rose also congratulated two auxiliary members Kendra Nicholson and Dykeshia Stribling on become alumni members of the chapter. Last year White Rose chose two organizations, “Monroe Harding” and “Mama Lere Hearing School” as the honorees for the 2013 year. The chapter did many fundraisers such as: Buffalo Wild Wings, Ruby Tuesday’s, Sky High Trampoline Park, Macy’s cards, and the annual White Rose Ball.

The members are looking forward to upcoming fundraisers with Macy’s, Sky High Trampoline Park, an Old School Pajama Jam and MADD Hoops that the chapter will be hosting at Tennessee State University this year. White Rose is also looking forward to assisting the new honoree for the year, Operation Stand Down Nashville, Inc., which assists Veterans and their families so that they can be self-sustaining and better connected to the community.

OMICRON ALUMNI HOSTS ALEX’S LEMONADE STAND AND PARTICIPATE IN DAY OF SERVICE TALLAHASSEE, FL - The Omicron Alumni Chapter hosted an Alex’s Lemonade Stand in October. The purpose of this event was to raise money and awareness for childhood cancer, and to encourage people to get involved and make a difference. During the event, the chapter provided residents with lemonade and collected donations for the Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. The Omicron Alumni Chapter also partnered with other service organizations in the local community and celebrated a “Day of Service”. During this event, there were a host of organizations that provided health screening; blood pressure & glucose screening, information about HIV, and clothing giveaway.

Last year, the chapter celebrated Founders’ Day by hosting a retreat in Destin, FL and was accompanied by the Alpha Kappa Reactivating Chapter from Florida State University. Chapter members are planning to celebrate Founders’ Day 2014 by taking a three day cruise to the Bahamas. All chapters and colonies are invited to join the occasion on October 2nd through the 5th. Please contact the Omicron Alumni Chapter for more details.