NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
Theta Chapter Kappa Kappa Gamma PO Box 30163 Columbia, Missouri 65205-3163
COLUMBIA MO PERMIT 286
SCHOLARSHIP FUND | November 2020
Commitment to Improving Diversity The Golden Key Scholarship fund was founded on the spirit of inclusivity, “to foster and promote campus and sorority involvement through the granting of scholarships.”
GKSF 2020-2021 BOARD MEMBERS Vivian Eynatten Benedict ‘59 House Board Representative Angela Schirmer Brownfield ‘91 Sarah Scroggs Buckallew ‘04 President Salli Borders Cathro ‘84 Julie Bell Diehls ‘90 Nominating Chair Tracy Toft Downing ‘80 Co-Communication Chair Patti Kehoe Fredrick ‘97 Co-Scholarship Chair Tammy Clapham Horn ‘84 Treasurer
FAQs about GKSF Q: What is the Golden Key Scholarship Fund (GKSF)? A: A tax-free avenue of funding, which provides significant scholarship monies and helps provide support for the updating of the Kappa Kappa Gamma house at the University of Missouri. Since 1985, the Fund has awarded more than 325 scholarships totaling more than $700,000. Q: How are the scholarships funded? A: The Board of Directors of GKSF, all Kappa Kappa Gamma alumnae, raise the money, administer the Fund, and select eligible scholarship recipients. Scholarships are funded by the interest earned on the principal.
Susan Riddle Johnson ‘84 Co-Communication Chair
Q: How are scholarship recipients selected?
Trisha Wiggins Lee ‘77
A: There are specific applicant qualifications and requirements, which, along with the scholarship application itself, may be found online at www.goldenkeyscholarship.org. It is important to note that the purpose of the Golden Key Scholarship Fund is to foster and promote campus and sorority involvement and scholarship through the granting of scholarships to qualified female undergraduate students who belong to the National Panhellenic Conference, the Panhellenic Council, or the Multicultural Greek Council at the University of Missouri, Columbia. The fund does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, or national origin in granting scholarships.
Alex Linderer ‘15 Conner Logsdon ‘14 Meg Moeller McFarland ‘90 Genny Nicholas ‘84 Julie Scroggs ‘07 Co-Scholarship Chair Stasia Bevard Sherman ‘05 Executive Director Ann Fangmann Sullivan ‘83
GoldenKey_Fall2020_final.indd 1-2
Golden Key Scholarship Fund More Vital Than Ever Pandemic Increases Need The COVID-19 Pandemic of 2020 has changed everything, including life at the Kappa House and the need for the Golden Key Scholarship. At the house, Kappas are resilient: wearing masks in all common areas, not allowing nonresidents to enter the house, and pulling off a 100% virtual—and 100% successful—recruitment. However, the pandemic has made college exponentially more difficult for many students, especially Golden Key Scholarship Fund applicants. Most applicants receive little to no assistance from their financially strapped families, and they work a part time job (or jobs!), in addition to cobbling together scholarships and financial assistance. Now, given COVID and the resulting job losses, health impacts, and financial insecurity, the needs of these exceptional women are sky-rocketing.
In recent years, the Board has made an intentional effort to expand the diversity of our scholarship applicant pool by increasing awareness of the scholarship among traditionally black and multicultural sororities. As a result, the diversity of qualified applicants is up. It’s a start, but there’s more work ahead to expand participation beyond traditional Panhellenic sororities. We’ve established a Board committee to promote diversity and inclusion as we continue our efforts to significantly increase the number of qualified applicants from diverse, multicultural backgrounds across Mizzou’s Greek system. We look forward to supporting “campus and sorority involvement” for all women through these efforts. Have ideas? Want to help? Please email Stasia Sherman at stasiabevard@gmail.com.
Pictured above: Morgan Knuckey, President and GKSF Recipient, and Melanie Green, Membership Chair
We have a matching gift! An anonymous donor has agreed to provide up to $1,000 in matching funds for the first 50 gifts the Golden Key Scholarship Fund receives. Make your gift today at goldenkeyscholarship.org/donate.htm or see envelope insert.
11/3/20 10:47 AM
From the President
2019-2020 Scholarship Recipients
Sarah Scroggs Buckallew (Theta 2004), President
Patti Kehoe Fredrick (Theta 1997) and Julie Scroggs (Theta 2007), Scholarship Co-Chairs
Sophie Barnes
We may be in the middle of a pandemic, but the GKSF Board is committed to supporting women!
Kappa Kappa Gamma
Thank you for your ongoing support of the Golden Key Scholarship Fund. We have had a busy year adjusting our operations due to COVID. This April, we met virtually to choose scholarship winners, instead of missed meeting the applicants, as that
Morgan Knuckey, Farthing Award Winner
is the most fulfilling part serving on
Kappa Kappa Gamma President
interviewing applicants in person. We
the board—seeing the impact of the scholarship. The board awarded 16
Here we are at our July 2020 zoom meeting.
$3,000 scholarships this year thanks to your generous support. Over the past two years we have made an effort to promote the scholarship Multicultural Greek Council and the National Pan-Hellenic Council to increase the diversity of our applicant pool and scholarship winners. Our effort to increase the diversity among scholarship winners has shown to be effective after doubling our women of color recipients. Over the next year, we are going to focus on continuing increasing diversity and inclusion of scholarship applicants and recipients. It is a pleasure to serve as the Golden Key Scholarship President. I am very grateful and humbled by our donors and board members who make this scholarship possible. The scholarship is filling a need in many women’s lives, lessening the financial burden of education to ensure participation in Greek organizations, and grow their leadership skills. Thank you for your contributions.
Loyally.
Sarah Buckallew
Stay connected to GKSF on Facebook! www.facebook.com/goldenkeyscholarshipfund
GoldenKey_Fall2020_final.indd 3-4
My name is Morgan Knuckey. I grew up in Bloomington, Illinois, but I now live in Saint Charles, Missouri. I am currently an Accounting student at the University of Missouri pursuing a Masters of Accountancy. I am involved in the Cornell Leadership Program, Beta Alpha Psi, Kappa Kappa Gamma as well as the Honors College. I also work part-time at the MizzouRec and as a Student Administrative Assistant at Williams-Keepers LLC. I enjoy spending my time learning, traveling, volunteering, and spending quality time with the people I love most. I’m so grateful to have been a GKSF recipient and the Farthing award winner, especially given the times we’re in. Having the responsibility of paying for all of my college expenses, tuition, and organizational costs, my mind was put at ease knowing that my chapter and organization supported me and offered me financial assistance. It has allowed me to remain on campus at Mizzou, taking classes as normal, and still remaining active in my organizations. All things that wouldn’t have been possible without receiving this financial assistance.
My name is Morgan Knuckey. I grew up in Bloomington, Illinois, but I now live in Saint Charles, Missouri. I am currently an Accounting student at the University of Missouri pursuing a Masters of Accountancy. I am involved in the Cornell Leadership Program, Beta Alpha Psi, Kappa Kappa Gamma as well as the Honors College. I also work part-time at the MizzouRec and as a Student Administrative Assistant at Williams-Keepers LLC. I enjoy spending my time learning, traveling, volunteering, and spending quality time with the people I love most.
Jada Craig Alpha Kappa Alpha My name is Jada Craig. I am from Chicago, IL. I began my studies at the University of Missouri- Columbia to pursue a degree in Hospitality Management with a minor in Business. I am currently the Parliamentarian of MU NAACP, a Residential Advisor and the Step Committee Chairman for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. During my time at Mizzou I’ve been able to explore numerous opportunities and fulfill the core values associated with the university.
Elizabeth Curtright Pi Beta Phi I am a junior Biomedical Engineering student from Columbia, Missouri. I am very involved within my chapter, the PHA community, as well as the campus ministry I attend, Veritas. Mizzou has already provided me with so many amazing opportunities, and I am excited to continue my education here.
11/3/20 10:48 AM
From the President
2019-2020 Scholarship Recipients
Sarah Scroggs Buckallew (Theta 2004), President
Patti Kehoe Fredrick (Theta 1997) and Julie Scroggs (Theta 2007), Scholarship Co-Chairs
Sophie Barnes
We may be in the middle of a pandemic, but the GKSF Board is committed to supporting women!
Kappa Kappa Gamma
Thank you for your ongoing support of the Golden Key Scholarship Fund. We have had a busy year adjusting our operations due to COVID. This April, we met virtually to choose scholarship winners, instead of missed meeting the applicants, as that
Morgan Knuckey, Farthing Award Winner
is the most fulfilling part serving on
Kappa Kappa Gamma President
interviewing applicants in person. We
the board—seeing the impact of the scholarship. The board awarded 16
Here we are at our July 2020 zoom meeting.
$3,000 scholarships this year thanks to your generous support. Over the past two years we have made an effort to promote the scholarship Multicultural Greek Council and the National Pan-Hellenic Council to increase the diversity of our applicant pool and scholarship winners. Our effort to increase the diversity among scholarship winners has shown to be effective after doubling our women of color recipients. Over the next year, we are going to focus on continuing increasing diversity and inclusion of scholarship applicants and recipients. It is a pleasure to serve as the Golden Key Scholarship President. I am very grateful and humbled by our donors and board members who make this scholarship possible. The scholarship is filling a need in many women’s lives, lessening the financial burden of education to ensure participation in Greek organizations, and grow their leadership skills. Thank you for your contributions.
Loyally.
Sarah Buckallew
Stay connected to GKSF on Facebook! www.facebook.com/goldenkeyscholarshipfund
GoldenKey_Fall2020_final.indd 3-4
My name is Morgan Knuckey. I grew up in Bloomington, Illinois, but I now live in Saint Charles, Missouri. I am currently an Accounting student at the University of Missouri pursuing a Masters of Accountancy. I am involved in the Cornell Leadership Program, Beta Alpha Psi, Kappa Kappa Gamma as well as the Honors College. I also work part-time at the MizzouRec and as a Student Administrative Assistant at Williams-Keepers LLC. I enjoy spending my time learning, traveling, volunteering, and spending quality time with the people I love most. I’m so grateful to have been a GKSF recipient and the Farthing award winner, especially given the times we’re in. Having the responsibility of paying for all of my college expenses, tuition, and organizational costs, my mind was put at ease knowing that my chapter and organization supported me and offered me financial assistance. It has allowed me to remain on campus at Mizzou, taking classes as normal, and still remaining active in my organizations. All things that wouldn’t have been possible without receiving this financial assistance.
My name is Morgan Knuckey. I grew up in Bloomington, Illinois, but I now live in Saint Charles, Missouri. I am currently an Accounting student at the University of Missouri pursuing a Masters of Accountancy. I am involved in the Cornell Leadership Program, Beta Alpha Psi, Kappa Kappa Gamma as well as the Honors College. I also work part-time at the MizzouRec and as a Student Administrative Assistant at Williams-Keepers LLC. I enjoy spending my time learning, traveling, volunteering, and spending quality time with the people I love most.
Jada Craig Alpha Kappa Alpha My name is Jada Craig. I am from Chicago, IL. I began my studies at the University of Missouri- Columbia to pursue a degree in Hospitality Management with a minor in Business. I am currently the Parliamentarian of MU NAACP, a Residential Advisor and the Step Committee Chairman for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. During my time at Mizzou I’ve been able to explore numerous opportunities and fulfill the core values associated with the university.
Elizabeth Curtright Pi Beta Phi I am a junior Biomedical Engineering student from Columbia, Missouri. I am very involved within my chapter, the PHA community, as well as the campus ministry I attend, Veritas. Mizzou has already provided me with so many amazing opportunities, and I am excited to continue my education here.
11/3/20 10:48 AM
Amanda Diamond
Liz Fletcher
Grace McKevitt
Laura Moro
Sigma Sigma Sigma
Kappa Kappa Gamma
Kappa Kappa Gamma
Kappa Kappa Gamma
Amanda Diamond is currently a full-time student at the University of Missouri, Columbia pursuing a Master’s degree in Accounting. She is an active member of Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority, Alpha Kappa Psi Professional Business Fraternity, and an Intern at Hybrid Real Estate.
My name is Grace McKevitt and I am currently a second-year Junior double majoring in Political Science and Journalism-Strategic Communications. I am from Arlington Heights Illinois and have a strong passion for music, art, and politics. I plan to emphasize in Art Direction in order to pursue a career in graphic design. I hope to one-day design content for a political campaign or non-profit organization that I stand behind.
Hi, my name is Laura Moro and I am a senior in the Master of Accountancy program at Mizzou for the 2020-2021 academic year! I am a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma, where I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of roles and serve our beneficiaries. Outside of Kappa, I am an ambassador for the Trulaske College of Business, Treasurer of Phi Beta Lambda professional business organization, and a member of Beta Alpha Psi accounting fraternity. In addition, I work an office job on campus. I am so thankful for the many opportunities Mizzou and Kappa have given me, including this scholarship!
Emily Kraus
Juliann Leak
Sydn y Richards
Hannah Riekhof
Kappa Alpha Theta
Kappa Kappa Gamma
Alpha Kappa Alpha
Kappa Kappa Gamma
From her hometown of Imperial, MO, Emily Kraus is a junior at Mizzou pursuing a degree in Biochemistry with aspirations of attending medical school. Emily is heavily involved in organizations on campus including philanthropic committee member for Kappa Alpha Theta sorority, a founding officer (VP of Programming) for MO Beta Phi Delta Epsilon, and a site leader for Mizzou Alternative Breaks. She actively participates in service in the Columbia community and beyond, such as The Food Bank for Central & Northeast Missouri, Russell Elementary School, Humane Society of Central Missouri, CMN Women’s and Children’s Hospital, GiGi’s Playhouse, and in hospitals around the St. Louis area.
Hi, I am a junior studying Biology, Psychology, and Spanish on a premed track at the University of Missouri. I’m originally from Kansas City, Missouri and love getting the opportunity to explore the city with friends. In my free time, I love spending time and studying with friends, crafting, being outside, and hammocking. One of my favorite memories from Kappa is when we won Greek Week this past year and all got to celebrate together!
Lauren Leppert
Grace Martinez
Alpha Kappa Alpha
Sigma Lambda Gamma
My name is Lauren Leppert. I am a senior at the University of Missouri-Columbia studying Business Marketing and Communications with a minor in Textile and Apparel Management. I am a 2018 initiate of the divine Delta Tau chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. I am thankful for this opportunity and cannot wait to continue to be a service to ALL mankind with my sorority sisters on and off of Mizzou’s campus.
GoldenKey_Fall2020_final.indd 5-6
Liz Fletcher is a pre-medical student studying Biology and Psychology at the University of Missouri. She is currently the president of a volunteer group at the MU Women’s and Children’s Hospital called “Pascale’s Pals” and a member of Rockin’ Against Multiple Sclerosis (RAMS) Steering Committee. In her free time, she likes to hang out with friends, play with her pet bunny Louie, and tend to the twenty houseplants in her room.
Grace Rebecca Martinez is a junior honors student at the University of Missouri studying Biological Sciences. She aims to work in the plant science field to do everything she can to maintain and improve the natural environment, and as a result, human health. She is a sister of Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority, Inc., and her hobbies include spending time in nature with her family and friends, riding horses, working with children, and laughing. Her future endeavors include traveling to Spanish-speaking countries, possibly joining AmeriCorps or the PeaceCorps.
My name is Sydny Richards and I am currently a senior here at the University of Missouri studying International Business with an emphasis in marketing from St. Louis, Missouri. I am a fall 2018 initiate of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.. I am the the current Chaplain for my sorority, and I am the treasurer for the National Panhellenic Council, which is one of the four councils under the Office of Sorority and Fraternity Life.
Grace Schollmeyer Kappa Kappa Gamma Grace is a senior nursing student at the University of Missouri - Columbia. She applied to the Sinclair School of Nursing a semester early and was accepted with a 4.0 GPA. She is projected to graduate in December 2021 with a Bachelors of Science in Nursing. In the future, Grace hopes to become a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner.
Hannah Riekhof is from St. Joseph, Missouri, and is a senior at the University of Missouri. Hannah will graduate with her nursing degree in May of 2021. In addition she is involved in multiple organizations including Tour Team, the Alumni Association Student Board, Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority, and Veritas Student Ministries. She is the daughter of Adlai and Ronda Riekhof.
Nicole Weibel Kappa Kappa Gamma My name is Nichi Weibel and I’m a Senior from the Twin Cities in Minnesota. I’m studying to one day become a board certified music therapist. When I’m not studying (or even when I am), I’m usually finding something fun to do outside, whether it be hiking, biking, running, or just laying in the sun. I have Kappa and her members to thank for helping me to realize my full potential in college and give me confidence for whatever I go on to accomplish in the future!
11/3/20 10:48 AM
Amanda Diamond
Liz Fletcher
Grace McKevitt
Laura Moro
Sigma Sigma Sigma
Kappa Kappa Gamma
Kappa Kappa Gamma
Kappa Kappa Gamma
Amanda Diamond is currently a full-time student at the University of Missouri, Columbia pursuing a Master’s degree in Accounting. She is an active member of Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority, Alpha Kappa Psi Professional Business Fraternity, and an Intern at Hybrid Real Estate.
My name is Grace McKevitt and I am currently a second-year Junior double majoring in Political Science and Journalism-Strategic Communications. I am from Arlington Heights Illinois and have a strong passion for music, art, and politics. I plan to emphasize in Art Direction in order to pursue a career in graphic design. I hope to one-day design content for a political campaign or non-profit organization that I stand behind.
Hi, my name is Laura Moro and I am a senior in the Master of Accountancy program at Mizzou for the 2020-2021 academic year! I am a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma, where I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of roles and serve our beneficiaries. Outside of Kappa, I am an ambassador for the Trulaske College of Business, Treasurer of Phi Beta Lambda professional business organization, and a member of Beta Alpha Psi accounting fraternity. In addition, I work an office job on campus. I am so thankful for the many opportunities Mizzou and Kappa have given me, including this scholarship!
Emily Kraus
Juliann Leak
Sydn y Richards
Hannah Riekhof
Kappa Alpha Theta
Kappa Kappa Gamma
Alpha Kappa Alpha
Kappa Kappa Gamma
From her hometown of Imperial, MO, Emily Kraus is a junior at Mizzou pursuing a degree in Biochemistry with aspirations of attending medical school. Emily is heavily involved in organizations on campus including philanthropic committee member for Kappa Alpha Theta sorority, a founding officer (VP of Programming) for MO Beta Phi Delta Epsilon, and a site leader for Mizzou Alternative Breaks. She actively participates in service in the Columbia community and beyond, such as The Food Bank for Central & Northeast Missouri, Russell Elementary School, Humane Society of Central Missouri, CMN Women’s and Children’s Hospital, GiGi’s Playhouse, and in hospitals around the St. Louis area.
Hi, I am a junior studying Biology, Psychology, and Spanish on a premed track at the University of Missouri. I’m originally from Kansas City, Missouri and love getting the opportunity to explore the city with friends. In my free time, I love spending time and studying with friends, crafting, being outside, and hammocking. One of my favorite memories from Kappa is when we won Greek Week this past year and all got to celebrate together!
Lauren Leppert
Grace Martinez
Alpha Kappa Alpha
Sigma Lambda Gamma
My name is Lauren Leppert. I am a senior at the University of Missouri-Columbia studying Business Marketing and Communications with a minor in Textile and Apparel Management. I am a 2018 initiate of the divine Delta Tau chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. I am thankful for this opportunity and cannot wait to continue to be a service to ALL mankind with my sorority sisters on and off of Mizzou’s campus.
GoldenKey_Fall2020_final.indd 5-6
Liz Fletcher is a pre-medical student studying Biology and Psychology at the University of Missouri. She is currently the president of a volunteer group at the MU Women’s and Children’s Hospital called “Pascale’s Pals” and a member of Rockin’ Against Multiple Sclerosis (RAMS) Steering Committee. In her free time, she likes to hang out with friends, play with her pet bunny Louie, and tend to the twenty houseplants in her room.
Grace Rebecca Martinez is a junior honors student at the University of Missouri studying Biological Sciences. She aims to work in the plant science field to do everything she can to maintain and improve the natural environment, and as a result, human health. She is a sister of Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority, Inc., and her hobbies include spending time in nature with her family and friends, riding horses, working with children, and laughing. Her future endeavors include traveling to Spanish-speaking countries, possibly joining AmeriCorps or the PeaceCorps.
My name is Sydny Richards and I am currently a senior here at the University of Missouri studying International Business with an emphasis in marketing from St. Louis, Missouri. I am a fall 2018 initiate of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.. I am the the current Chaplain for my sorority, and I am the treasurer for the National Panhellenic Council, which is one of the four councils under the Office of Sorority and Fraternity Life.
Grace Schollmeyer Kappa Kappa Gamma Grace is a senior nursing student at the University of Missouri - Columbia. She applied to the Sinclair School of Nursing a semester early and was accepted with a 4.0 GPA. She is projected to graduate in December 2021 with a Bachelors of Science in Nursing. In the future, Grace hopes to become a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner.
Hannah Riekhof is from St. Joseph, Missouri, and is a senior at the University of Missouri. Hannah will graduate with her nursing degree in May of 2021. In addition she is involved in multiple organizations including Tour Team, the Alumni Association Student Board, Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority, and Veritas Student Ministries. She is the daughter of Adlai and Ronda Riekhof.
Nicole Weibel Kappa Kappa Gamma My name is Nichi Weibel and I’m a Senior from the Twin Cities in Minnesota. I’m studying to one day become a board certified music therapist. When I’m not studying (or even when I am), I’m usually finding something fun to do outside, whether it be hiking, biking, running, or just laying in the sun. I have Kappa and her members to thank for helping me to realize my full potential in college and give me confidence for whatever I go on to accomplish in the future!
11/3/20 10:48 AM
KEYSTONE SCHOLARSHIPS
Donors to the GKSF
Nominating Report
Gifts made to the Golden Key Scholarship September 1, 2019 - August 31, 2020
Julie Bell Diehls (Theta 1990), Nominating Chair
5,000– 9,999
Gail Van Reen Acuff
$
Frances Virginia Ott Bell
Trust of Patricia Drumm In memory of Patricia Hayes Drumm ‘49
Carolyn Buehrle Brown Hattie Heer Brown Virginia Cox Bussey Chapman-Dupont Lynn Overstreet Chatfield Holly Hutcheson Combs Van Hartman Ellis
$
$
1,000–$4,999
Susanne C. Shutz ‘56 In memory of Maxine C. Shutz ‘20 $
500–$999
Tracy Toft Downing ‘80 Susan Riddle Johnson ‘84 Carolyn Wepler Zalaznik ‘95 $
250–$499
Billie Kay Farrar Gohn
Sally Steel Callis ‘59 Martha Stephenson Mos ‘63
Katherine Hawkins Letterman
$
Shirley Cox Matteson Betty Estill O’Neill Mary Elizabeth Overstreet Margaret Tomlin Owens
100–$249
Judith Murback Bowman ‘57 Elizabeth Schultz Ballew ‘61
Janice Thomas Barron ‘57 Angela Schirmer Brownfield ‘91 Tammy Clapham Horn ‘84 Edenn Blakeslee Jablonski ‘97 Jeane Jae ‘70 Trisha Wiggins Lee ‘77 Genny Nicholas ‘84 Julie Scroggs ‘07 Stasia Bevard Sherman ‘05 Sally Steele West ‘58 In memory of Mary Atwill Steele ‘29
The Golden Key Scholarship Fund has made every effort to include the names of all donors. Should you discover an error, please accept our apology and notify the Board of Directors by contacting Stasia Sherman, Executive Director, at kappa@goldenkeyscholarship.org.
Julie Ronchetto Swain (Theta 1993), Kappa House Board Secretary
Jeanne Nesbitt Toombs VanMeter Family Annie and Gates Wells Marian Klingbeil Williams Each of our 28 Keystone donors represents a gift of at least $10,000 given by them or in their honor. We are grateful for the generosity and loyalty of these Keystone Donors who have made our Golden Key Scholarship program possible.
GoldenKey_Fall2020_final.indd 7-8
After graduating I went on to work for Kappa as a Leadership Consultant, and now live in Kansas City working for Burns & McDonnell, an engineering firm, on the College Recruiting Team. Within the Kappa world, I’m currently a Leadership Development Specialist for Theta District (all Texas and Oklahoma Chapters) and the Standards Adviser for Gamma Chi Chapter at The George Washington University. In Kansas City, I am an active member of Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Mizzou Young Alumni Association. In my free time I love to read, travel, run, and try new recipes. I’m incredibly excited to have the opportunity to give back to my beloved Theta Chapter!
Alexandra Linderer (Theta 2015)
Maxine Christopher Shutz
Martha Stephens Toler
Conner Logsdon I am originally from Columbia, MO and graduated from the University of Missouri in May of 2018 with a degree in Hospitality Management. During my time as an active at Mizzou I served in various Chapter Council roles, and then as President in 2017. During my term I had the joy of working closely with the House Board on the capital campaign and beautiful expansion.
Mary D. Rootes
Mary Atwill Steele
Julie Diehls at kappa@goldenkeyscholarship.org.
Sarah Scroggs Buckallew ‘04 Salli Borders Cathro ‘84 Julie Bell Diehls ‘90 Jane Canedy Crow ‘58 Suzanne Kunkler Forsyth ‘50 In memory of Dottie Matthews Moore ‘50 Melissa Tinnin Leible ‘75 In memory of Patricia Hayes Drumm ‘49 Meg Moeller McFarland ‘90
Gayle Dye Rose
Nancy Silver Sneed
the Board, should contact our Nominating chairperson,
(Theta 2014)
House Board Report
Kathryn Barnard Skelton
would like to recommend someone for nomination to
Up to 99 $
Bess Wells Paris Carolyn Beimdiek Phelps
Alumnae interested in serving on the Board or who
Things are certainly different this semester at 512 Rollins! Following a successful though virtual Recruitment, school began. The rules were put in place at Kappa: wear a mask except in your room, wash hands frequently and socially distance. Four quarantine rooms were set up with their own bathroom at the east (old) end of the third floor. In-House members who have symptoms or test positive are encouraged to go home. If they can’t, they remain in the quarantine rooms with meals delivered outside their doors. Every effort is being made to stem the spread of Covid-19 within the Kappa House. Every dining room table has two chairs for eating or studying. The meals are securely wrapped and served grab-and-go style. They can be taken to bedrooms or eaten on the upper deck or courtyard. At this time, only Kappas who live at 512 can enter. Out of House, alumnae and non-Kappas are kindly refrained from entering the House for the safety of those who live there. The House Board is so fortunate to have Vivian Benedict as our President for the past year. During this unprecedented and unpredictable time she has devoted countless hours implementing safety measures for the members who live at the Kappa House. She is in constant communication with the Fraternity, Advisory Board, House Board, Chapter Council and our resilient House Director as things change nationally and locally on campus. Our Board and the Chapter is healthy and strong, thanks in large part to her. The Chapter looks forward to better days when they can enjoy their bonds in person. This, too, shall pass. Until then, stay healthy and keep your blue and blue on! Loyally,
Alex Linderer is a recent Theta Chapter Kappa alumna who was initiated in 2015. She graduated from the University of Missouri with a Bachelor’s degree in communication science and disorders in 2019, and will graduate in 2021 with a Master’s degree in speech, language and hearing sciences. After graduating, Alex plans to move to Sedalia, Missouri and work as a speech-language pathologist. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time at the lake and cheering on her favorite sports teams (Go Blues! Go Cards! Go Chiefs!). While an active member of Theta Chapter, Alex served two terms on Chapter Council, one as the Vice President of Standards and another as the Membership Chairman. She was also the chair of intramural sports and held several liaison positions for both Homecoming and Greek Week over the years. In 2016, Alex represented Theta Chapter at Kappa Kappa Gamma’s annual Leadership Academy in Marengo, Ohio, and in 2018, she attended the National Convention in Denver, Colorado. Alex is greatly looking forward to continuing her involvement with Kappa as an alumna. * Alex is a two-time recipient of the Golden Key Scholarship, in 2017 and 2018.
Ann (Fangmann) Sullivan (Theta 1984) I was a member of the Theta Chapter of KKG at the University of Missouri from 1983 - 1987 and was initiated in 1984. I graduated with a BS degree in Counseling & Rehabilitation. I went onto to receive my Masters in Education in Counseling Psychology. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Missouri and a National Board Certified Counselor. I have worked in the Healthcare field all of my life. I currently have a private practice in St. Louis and have been working with individuals, couples, and families for over ten years. I have been married to Brian, who also graduated from the School of Business in Accounting and was a Lambda Chi Alpha at Mizzou for 29 years. We have lived in STL since graduating in 1987 and have three children. Hannah is currently a Senior Chi Omega at Mizzou in the Accounting program and Bridget will be a Freshman at Mizzou this fall. Our son Bryce will be a Junior in High School. I have been active volunteering with National Charity League for 10 years. We help over 25 non-profit organizations in the St. Louis area with various projects and events. I am also a top ten fundraiser for Pedal the Cause, a biking event which raises money for Cancer research for SSiteman Cancer Center in St. Louis, as I am a cancer thriver, currently battling Stage 4 colon cancer since April 2017. I enjoy biking, being outdoors and cooking. I most enjoy spending time with my family especially at the Lake and love seeing all my Kappa sisters any chance I get.
Melanie (Prather) Studer (Epsilon Upsilon 1984) Melanie grew up in Columbia, Missouri, and attended Baylor University, graduating in 1987 with a degree in Elementary Education. She taught a year in Houston, Texas, then 9 years in Columbia Public Schools. She spent the next 22 years at home raising her three sons and working at multiple part time jobs over the years, the main one being a job as preschool teacher at Discovery Days for many years. Melanie and her husband, Kent, live in Columbia where they have raised their boys, who are now 22, 20, and 15. She has served on both the house board and the advisory board over the years for the Theta chapter of KKG. Her volunteer activities include serving on the Steering Committee of MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) as chaplain. She also served in the PLA (Professional Liaison Association) of the Assistance League for a number of years. Melanie was co-president of two different chapters of King’s Daughters over the years. She also served the citywide King’s Daughters as chairperson for their annual Holiday Extravaganza as vendor coordinator. She has served on multiple PTAs over the years in various capacities as well. Melanie is a blogger at www.parentinghighschoolers.com She has written for her blog since September 2017 and has also authored the book, “College Bound: The Ultimate List of Conversations to Help Your Teen Through High School.” In addition to this, she has started speaking on podcasts and the radio as a parenting coach. Last year, Melanie went back into the classroom full-time as a middle school language arts teacher in North Callaway Public Schools. She will return there this fall in their newly structured school system at North Callaway Middle School.
Julie Swain 11/3/20 10:48 AM
KEYSTONE SCHOLARSHIPS
Donors to the GKSF
Nominating Report
Gifts made to the Golden Key Scholarship September 1, 2019 - August 31, 2020
Julie Bell Diehls (Theta 1990), Nominating Chair
5,000– 9,999
Gail Van Reen Acuff
$
Frances Virginia Ott Bell
Trust of Patricia Drumm In memory of Patricia Hayes Drumm ‘49
Carolyn Buehrle Brown Hattie Heer Brown Virginia Cox Bussey Chapman-Dupont Lynn Overstreet Chatfield Holly Hutcheson Combs Van Hartman Ellis
$
$
1,000–$4,999
Susanne C. Shutz ‘56 In memory of Maxine C. Shutz ‘20 $
500–$999
Tracy Toft Downing ‘80 Susan Riddle Johnson ‘84 Carolyn Wepler Zalaznik ‘95 $
250–$499
Billie Kay Farrar Gohn
Sally Steel Callis ‘59 Martha Stephenson Mos ‘63
Katherine Hawkins Letterman
$
Shirley Cox Matteson Betty Estill O’Neill Mary Elizabeth Overstreet Margaret Tomlin Owens
100–$249
Judith Murback Bowman ‘57 Elizabeth Schultz Ballew ‘61
Janice Thomas Barron ‘57 Angela Schirmer Brownfield ‘91 Tammy Clapham Horn ‘84 Edenn Blakeslee Jablonski ‘97 Jeane Jae ‘70 Trisha Wiggins Lee ‘77 Genny Nicholas ‘84 Julie Scroggs ‘07 Stasia Bevard Sherman ‘05 Sally Steele West ‘58 In memory of Mary Atwill Steele ‘29
The Golden Key Scholarship Fund has made every effort to include the names of all donors. Should you discover an error, please accept our apology and notify the Board of Directors by contacting Stasia Sherman, Executive Director, at kappa@goldenkeyscholarship.org.
Julie Ronchetto Swain (Theta 1993), Kappa House Board Secretary
Jeanne Nesbitt Toombs VanMeter Family Annie and Gates Wells Marian Klingbeil Williams Each of our 28 Keystone donors represents a gift of at least $10,000 given by them or in their honor. We are grateful for the generosity and loyalty of these Keystone Donors who have made our Golden Key Scholarship program possible.
GoldenKey_Fall2020_final.indd 7-8
After graduating I went on to work for Kappa as a Leadership Consultant, and now live in Kansas City working for Burns & McDonnell, an engineering firm, on the College Recruiting Team. Within the Kappa world, I’m currently a Leadership Development Specialist for Theta District (all Texas and Oklahoma Chapters) and the Standards Adviser for Gamma Chi Chapter at The George Washington University. In Kansas City, I am an active member of Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Mizzou Young Alumni Association. In my free time I love to read, travel, run, and try new recipes. I’m incredibly excited to have the opportunity to give back to my beloved Theta Chapter!
Alexandra Linderer (Theta 2015)
Maxine Christopher Shutz
Martha Stephens Toler
Conner Logsdon I am originally from Columbia, MO and graduated from the University of Missouri in May of 2018 with a degree in Hospitality Management. During my time as an active at Mizzou I served in various Chapter Council roles, and then as President in 2017. During my term I had the joy of working closely with the House Board on the capital campaign and beautiful expansion.
Mary D. Rootes
Mary Atwill Steele
Julie Diehls at kappa@goldenkeyscholarship.org.
Sarah Scroggs Buckallew ‘04 Salli Borders Cathro ‘84 Julie Bell Diehls ‘90 Jane Canedy Crow ‘58 Suzanne Kunkler Forsyth ‘50 In memory of Dottie Matthews Moore ‘50 Melissa Tinnin Leible ‘75 In memory of Patricia Hayes Drumm ‘49 Meg Moeller McFarland ‘90
Gayle Dye Rose
Nancy Silver Sneed
the Board, should contact our Nominating chairperson,
(Theta 2014)
House Board Report
Kathryn Barnard Skelton
would like to recommend someone for nomination to
Up to 99 $
Bess Wells Paris Carolyn Beimdiek Phelps
Alumnae interested in serving on the Board or who
Things are certainly different this semester at 512 Rollins! Following a successful though virtual Recruitment, school began. The rules were put in place at Kappa: wear a mask except in your room, wash hands frequently and socially distance. Four quarantine rooms were set up with their own bathroom at the east (old) end of the third floor. In-House members who have symptoms or test positive are encouraged to go home. If they can’t, they remain in the quarantine rooms with meals delivered outside their doors. Every effort is being made to stem the spread of Covid-19 within the Kappa House. Every dining room table has two chairs for eating or studying. The meals are securely wrapped and served grab-and-go style. They can be taken to bedrooms or eaten on the upper deck or courtyard. At this time, only Kappas who live at 512 can enter. Out of House, alumnae and non-Kappas are kindly refrained from entering the House for the safety of those who live there. The House Board is so fortunate to have Vivian Benedict as our President for the past year. During this unprecedented and unpredictable time she has devoted countless hours implementing safety measures for the members who live at the Kappa House. She is in constant communication with the Fraternity, Advisory Board, House Board, Chapter Council and our resilient House Director as things change nationally and locally on campus. Our Board and the Chapter is healthy and strong, thanks in large part to her. The Chapter looks forward to better days when they can enjoy their bonds in person. This, too, shall pass. Until then, stay healthy and keep your blue and blue on! Loyally,
Alex Linderer is a recent Theta Chapter Kappa alumna who was initiated in 2015. She graduated from the University of Missouri with a Bachelor’s degree in communication science and disorders in 2019, and will graduate in 2021 with a Master’s degree in speech, language and hearing sciences. After graduating, Alex plans to move to Sedalia, Missouri and work as a speech-language pathologist. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time at the lake and cheering on her favorite sports teams (Go Blues! Go Cards! Go Chiefs!). While an active member of Theta Chapter, Alex served two terms on Chapter Council, one as the Vice President of Standards and another as the Membership Chairman. She was also the chair of intramural sports and held several liaison positions for both Homecoming and Greek Week over the years. In 2016, Alex represented Theta Chapter at Kappa Kappa Gamma’s annual Leadership Academy in Marengo, Ohio, and in 2018, she attended the National Convention in Denver, Colorado. Alex is greatly looking forward to continuing her involvement with Kappa as an alumna. * Alex is a two-time recipient of the Golden Key Scholarship, in 2017 and 2018.
Ann (Fangmann) Sullivan (Theta 1984) I was a member of the Theta Chapter of KKG at the University of Missouri from 1983 - 1987 and was initiated in 1984. I graduated with a BS degree in Counseling & Rehabilitation. I went onto to receive my Masters in Education in Counseling Psychology. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Missouri and a National Board Certified Counselor. I have worked in the Healthcare field all of my life. I currently have a private practice in St. Louis and have been working with individuals, couples, and families for over ten years. I have been married to Brian, who also graduated from the School of Business in Accounting and was a Lambda Chi Alpha at Mizzou for 29 years. We have lived in STL since graduating in 1987 and have three children. Hannah is currently a Senior Chi Omega at Mizzou in the Accounting program and Bridget will be a Freshman at Mizzou this fall. Our son Bryce will be a Junior in High School. I have been active volunteering with National Charity League for 10 years. We help over 25 non-profit organizations in the St. Louis area with various projects and events. I am also a top ten fundraiser for Pedal the Cause, a biking event which raises money for Cancer research for SSiteman Cancer Center in St. Louis, as I am a cancer thriver, currently battling Stage 4 colon cancer since April 2017. I enjoy biking, being outdoors and cooking. I most enjoy spending time with my family especially at the Lake and love seeing all my Kappa sisters any chance I get.
Melanie (Prather) Studer (Epsilon Upsilon 1984) Melanie grew up in Columbia, Missouri, and attended Baylor University, graduating in 1987 with a degree in Elementary Education. She taught a year in Houston, Texas, then 9 years in Columbia Public Schools. She spent the next 22 years at home raising her three sons and working at multiple part time jobs over the years, the main one being a job as preschool teacher at Discovery Days for many years. Melanie and her husband, Kent, live in Columbia where they have raised their boys, who are now 22, 20, and 15. She has served on both the house board and the advisory board over the years for the Theta chapter of KKG. Her volunteer activities include serving on the Steering Committee of MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) as chaplain. She also served in the PLA (Professional Liaison Association) of the Assistance League for a number of years. Melanie was co-president of two different chapters of King’s Daughters over the years. She also served the citywide King’s Daughters as chairperson for their annual Holiday Extravaganza as vendor coordinator. She has served on multiple PTAs over the years in various capacities as well. Melanie is a blogger at www.parentinghighschoolers.com She has written for her blog since September 2017 and has also authored the book, “College Bound: The Ultimate List of Conversations to Help Your Teen Through High School.” In addition to this, she has started speaking on podcasts and the radio as a parenting coach. Last year, Melanie went back into the classroom full-time as a middle school language arts teacher in North Callaway Public Schools. She will return there this fall in their newly structured school system at North Callaway Middle School.
Julie Swain 11/3/20 10:48 AM
NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
Theta Chapter Kappa Kappa Gamma PO Box 30163 Columbia, Missouri 65205-3163
COLUMBIA MO PERMIT 286
SCHOLARSHIP FUND | November 2020
Commitment to Improving Diversity The Golden Key Scholarship fund was founded on the spirit of inclusivity, “to foster and promote campus and sorority involvement through the granting of scholarships.”
GKSF 2020-2021 BOARD MEMBERS Vivian Eynatten Benedict ‘59 House Board Representative Angela Schirmer Brownfield ‘91 Sarah Scroggs Buckallew ‘04 President Salli Borders Cathro ‘84 Julie Bell Diehls ‘90 Nominating Chair Tracy Toft Downing ‘80 Co-Communication Chair Patti Kehoe Fredrick ‘97 Co-Scholarship Chair Tammy Clapham Horn ‘84 Treasurer
FAQs about GKSF Q: What is the Golden Key Scholarship Fund (GKSF)? A: A tax-free avenue of funding, which provides significant scholarship monies and helps provide support for the updating of the Kappa Kappa Gamma house at the University of Missouri. Since 1985, the Fund has awarded more than 325 scholarships totaling more than $700,000. Q: How are the scholarships funded? A: The Board of Directors of GKSF, all Kappa Kappa Gamma alumnae, raise the money, administer the Fund, and select eligible scholarship recipients. Scholarships are funded by the interest earned on the principal.
Susan Riddle Johnson ‘84 Co-Communication Chair
Q: How are scholarship recipients selected?
Trisha Wiggins Lee ‘77
A: There are specific applicant qualifications and requirements, which, along with the scholarship application itself, may be found online at www.goldenkeyscholarship.org. It is important to note that the purpose of the Golden Key Scholarship Fund is to foster and promote campus and sorority involvement and scholarship through the granting of scholarships to qualified female undergraduate students who belong to the National Panhellenic Conference, the Panhellenic Council, or the Multicultural Greek Council at the University of Missouri, Columbia. The fund does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, or national origin in granting scholarships.
Alex Linderer ‘15 Conner Logsdon ‘14 Meg Moeller McFarland ‘90 Genny Nicholas ‘84 Julie Scroggs ‘07 Co-Scholarship Chair Stasia Bevard Sherman ‘05 Executive Director Ann Fangmann Sullivan ‘83
GoldenKey_Fall2020_final.indd 1-2
Golden Key Scholarship Fund More Vital Than Ever Pandemic Increases Need The COVID-19 Pandemic of 2020 has changed everything, including life at the Kappa House and the need for the Golden Key Scholarship. At the house, Kappas are resilient: wearing masks in all common areas, not allowing nonresidents to enter the house, and pulling off a 100% virtual—and 100% successful—recruitment. However, the pandemic has made college exponentially more difficult for many students, especially Golden Key Scholarship Fund applicants. Most applicants receive little to no assistance from their financially strapped families, and they work a part time job (or jobs!), in addition to cobbling together scholarships and financial assistance. Now, given COVID and the resulting job losses, health impacts, and financial insecurity, the needs of these exceptional women are sky-rocketing.
In recent years, the Board has made an intentional effort to expand the diversity of our scholarship applicant pool by increasing awareness of the scholarship among traditionally black and multicultural sororities. As a result, the diversity of qualified applicants is up. It’s a start, but there’s more work ahead to expand participation beyond traditional Panhellenic sororities. We’ve established a Board committee to promote diversity and inclusion as we continue our efforts to significantly increase the number of qualified applicants from diverse, multicultural backgrounds across Mizzou’s Greek system. We look forward to supporting “campus and sorority involvement” for all women through these efforts. Have ideas? Want to help? Please email Stasia Sherman at stasiabevard@gmail.com.
Pictured above: Morgan Knuckey, President and GKSF Recipient, and Melanie Green, Membership Chair
We have a matching gift! An anonymous donor has agreed to provide up to $1,000 in matching funds for the first 50 gifts the Golden Key Scholarship Fund receives. Make your gift today at goldenkeyscholarship.org/donate.htm or see envelope insert.
11/3/20 10:47 AM