Kappa Quill Spring 2025

Spring 2025 Volume 57, Issue 2

Mission Statement The purpose of Kappa Delta Phi National Affiliated Sorority, Inc. shall be to promote academic achievement, to encourage community involvement through philanthropy, and to cultivate the everlasting bonds of sisterhood. We shall fortify the values of leadership, generosity, charity, and integrity within our sisters through guidance at both the Chapter and National level.

National Founders Pat Ouellette Angie Parker Kathy Luciano Dee Tzovarras Tricia Crosby Laurie Beckwith Joanne Lobozzo Becky Ritter Joyce Welch Renie Mountain Bridgett Burtchell Bonnie Griener

Nancee Brearly Debbie Therriauly Barbie Richard Eileen Coombs Karen Kulikowski Kathi Gleason Jan Spaulding Sharon Soles Sue Caron Leslie Vartabedian Mimi McBride

Media & Marketing Committee Chair: Robyn Sarette Kappa Quill Designer: Christina Rose & Robyn Sarette Social Media: Kelsey Cicerone Webmaster: Allesyn Wesner Special Consultant: Christina Rose

Follow us on social media!

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Cover design by Olivia Neely, Kappa Sigma

Table of Contents

Pg. 5

Pg. 20

Meetings Recap

Chapter Reports

Important Dates...........................................1

Important Dates

Letters from the Executive Team...........2-4

Spring Board of Directors Meeting

2024-25 Meetings Recap.....................5-10 NGLA................................................................6-7 AFA................................................................... 8-9 Fall Board..........................................................10 Mid-Year Board of Representatives............10 All About Growth.................................. 11-15 AFSP Resources....................................16-17 Congratulations Graduates!............... 18-19 Chapter Reports..................................20-29 Alumnae Spotlight...............................30-31 Letter from Susan Dyer Taylor................32

June 20-22 | Wilmington, Vermont

AFSP National Out of the Darkness Walk June 21 | New York City

Summer Leadership Retreat

August 1-3 | Manchester, New Hampshire Southern New Hampshire University

National Alumnae Association Annual Meeting Fall 2025 | Details TBD

AFA Annual Meeting

December 8-11 | Las Vegas, Nevada

NGLA 2026

February 26-March 1 | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

01

Letters from the Executive Team

Hi Sisters!

I hope you’re all doing amazing and getting hyped for KappaCon 2025—seriously, it's one of the best times of the year! The snow is finally melting, spring is peeking around the corner, and with it comes all the energy of growth, renewal, and fresh possibilities.

Speaking of growth, my time in Kappa has been full of it. I still remember stepping onto UMass Lowell’s campus as a freshman—intimidated, unsure, and definitely out of my comfort zone. But then Kappa came bursting into my life (literally—if you know, you know!). Since that moment, it’s been a whirlwind of learning, connection, and becoming the best version of myself.

One of the biggest lessons? Transparency and communication are everything. When you’re surrounded by a group of strong, unique women, you quickly realize that leadership isn’t just about making decisions—it’s about making sure everyone feels heard, valued, and included. Setting clear expectations, ensuring fairness, and fostering an environment where everyone thrives is what truly builds a strong, successful organization.

After graduating from UMass Lowell, I quickly realized that growth doesn’t stop at graduation. My job has pushed me to develop professionally and understand how to present myself to the community. That journey of growth has only continued on the National Board, where I have the privilege of helping and empowering women to reach their full potential as leaders. But here’s the thing—they help me grow too.

The incredible women on this board challenge me to think beyond my comfort zone, just like the sisters from my undergrad years did. They’ve shaped me into the confident person I am today, not just by supporting me but by holding me accountable, pushing me to improve, and ensuring I show up as the best version of myself—for this board and for Kappa as a whole.

Through it all, my biggest takeaway is this: listen to feedback, process it, and find a way to stay true to yourself— while also recognizing that at the end of the day, we all share the same goal. We’re here to help each other grow, and that means being open to that growth, even when it’s tough to hear.

I hope you enjoy the rest of this amazing weekend, and as always, don’t hesitate to reach out! Can’t wait to celebrate all we’ve accomplished together at KappaCon 2025!

In Kappa,

Marysa Mitrano Chief Executive Officer/National President

02

Dear Sisters, As we look toward the future of our sorority, I want to address the vital topic of growth—not just in numbers, but in the strength and depth of our sisterhood. As your COO, I'm deeply invested in ensuring our organization thrives, and that means fostering a community built on the core principles that define us: Kindness, Devotion, and Pride.

Growth is not merely about expansion; it's about enrichment. It's about attracting individuals who resonate with our values and who are eager to contribute to a legacy of sisterhood that uplifts and empowers. To achieve this, we must consistently embody the qualities that make our sorority exceptional.

Kindness: The Foundation of Our Bonds Kindness is the cornerstone of our sisterhood. It's the gentle word, the helping hand, and the empathetic ear. As we grow, we must cultivate a culture of inclusivity and understanding. This means truly listening and valuing different perspectives, offering unwavering support, providing honest feedback, and ensuring that we are welcoming each other.

Devotion: The Heart of Our Commitment Devotion to our sorority means more than just attending meetings and events. It's about a deep commitment to our shared values and a willingness to invest in the collective well-being of our sisterhood. This entails building a foundation of trust and loyalty among sisters, contributing your time and talents, upholding our values during your daily lives, and dedicating time to develop our younger sisters.

Pride: The Spirit of Our Legacy Pride in our sorority is the driving force that propels us forward. It's the sense of belonging and accomplishment that comes from being part of something greater than ourselves. To nurture this pride, we must celebrate our achievement, preserve our traditions, promote, and represent our values publicly.

Working as a Team: The Power of Collaboration Growth cannot be achieved in isolation. We must embrace the power of teamwork, recognizing that our collective strength is far greater than the sum of our individual parts. This requires shared goals, delegation and collaboration, respect for diverse skills, and conflict resolution.

Communication: The Lifeline of Our Sisterhood Effective communication is the lifeblood of a thriving sorority. We must cultivate open, honest, and respectful communication channels to ensure that information flows freely and that all voices are heard. This includes being transparent and regularly meeting.

By embracing these principles, we can ensure that our sorority's growth is not just about numbers, but about building a stronger and more vibrant sisterhood. Let us commit to cultivating a community where kindness, devotion, and pride flourish, where teamwork is paramount, and where communication is open and transparent.

Together, we can create a legacy that will inspire generations of sisters to come.

In Kappa,

Andrea McKevitt Chief Operating Officer

03

Letters from the Executive Team (continued)

Dearest Sisters, As the 2024-2025 semester comes to a close, I am proud to share the successes that have strengthened our beloved sorority. Our commitment to growth, stability, and sisterhood has guided every decision, ensuring that we continue to provide opportunities for personal and collective development.

Our sorority has always been more than just an affiliation—it is a thriving community where women come together to support, uplift, and empower one another. Over the past year, we have seen growth not only in our membership but also in the ways we support each other’s personal and professional development. This growth is rooted in the shared commitment of each sister to contribute to the greater good of the community.

As CFO, I’ve witnessed firsthand the stability that comes from our dedication to fostering strong foundations for our chapters. This stability allows us to provide scholarships, support philanthropic initiatives, and create opportunities for our sisters to thrive. It is this solid foundation that enables our organization to flourish and make a lasting impact on each sister’s journey. That stability comes from our active membership putting in effort to ensure timely submissions—it makes a difference!

At the heart of everything we do is the principle of sisterhood. Through our bonds, we continue to build a space where every sister feels heard, supported, and empowered to reach their fullest potential. We are more than a group—we are a family, and as such, we celebrate each sister’s personal growth as an integral part of our collective strength.

As we look ahead, we remain steadfast in our mission to support our members and uphold the values that make our sisterhood so special. Thank you for your kindness, devotion, and pride ensuring our sorority’s continued success.

I am honored to serve in this role and look forward to another year of growth and achievement together.

In Kappa,

Robyn Sarette Chief Financial Officer/National Treasurer

04

Meetings Recap 2024-2025

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Northeast Greek Leadership Association (NGLA) At NGLA, I was able to attend seminars on topics such as burnout, recruitment, and training future leaders of the chapter. I learned about how to market sorority life and find new members, how to make my organization stand out from the other sororities on campus, and how to do proper training of future leaders, to name a few. I found the experience to be incredibly inspiring and motivating. Perhaps the most beneficial part was connecting with sisters from other chapters. Talking with them about what they do for traditions and events made me excited to bring new ideas back to my own chapter. I am so grateful for this experience because it made me excited about the direction I can help take my chapter.

—Rebecca Hanlon, Kappa Lambda Attending NGLA in Baltimore, Maryland this past spring was an incredible opportunity for me to connect with other Greek communities and grow as a leader. This conference brought together members from diverse backgrounds and perspectives, all focused on developing skills in leadership, advocacy, and effective communication.

From listening to inspiring keynote speakers discuss overcoming challenges and adaptability to attending workshops alongside my sister Katherine from the Kappa Alpha Omicron chapter, every moment was a chance to learn and grow. This experience not only strengthened our bond as sisters but also allowed us to bring valuable insights and ideas back to our chapter in Oswego.

Exploring Baltimore was an exciting part of the trip, as well as meeting new people, especially sisters from different chapters was an unforgettable experience. Learning from fellow Greek leaders and national advisors was incredibly rewarding, making me even more grateful and excited to have been chosen as a representative for Kappa Delta Phi N.A.S. — Bella Byrnes, Kappa Alpha Omicron

Congrats to our 2024-25 NGLA Scholarship Recipients!

Isabella Brynes (Kappa Alpha Omicron), Rebecca Hanlon (Kappa Lambda) and Maggie Landry (Kappa Upsilon) 06

NGLA was such a wonderful experience and I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to attend this conference.

NGLA was an excellent learning experience and helped me to gain new perspectives on Greek life. Being able to connect with other Kappa Delta Phi N.A.S. sisters as well as other sorority and fraternity members was a highlight of the weekend. I was able to attend many meaningful sessions regarding recruitment, leadership and membership well being.

One of my favorite sessions that I attended was about recruitment. It was focused on transparency throughout the recruitment process. We discussed how a lack of transparency results in unrealistic expectations once people become sisters can lead to low retention rates. Another beneficial session that I attended was about officer transitions.

We discussed how officer transitions are a fundamental part of having a successful organization and it is necessary to have a successful officer transition. One more important session that I attended was about how the skills we learn by being in a sorority will be transferable into success in our future careers. Overall, I was able to bring a lot of meaningful information back to my chapter.

—Maggie Landry, Kappa Upsilon I am so honored to have had the opportunity to go to NGLA this year! I was able to get to know even more sisters, hear their perspectives, and hear different organizations perspectives on what is currently going on in the Greek life community in the Northeast.

When I was an undergrad, I didn’t think to even apply for such an opportunity because I was a Biology major. I figured if i wasn’t a communications major or someone looking to get into student life or higher education it might not be for me. If you are like my past self, please let me be the first to tell you that this conference is a fantastic opportunity to learn more about yourself, your own leadership qualities, and how to be a better leader even outside of your chapter!

Some of my favorite sessions were about officer transitions, how to better connect your alumnae with your actives, and hearing what PNM’s look for in Greek Life in the post-COVID world (the answer; sisterhood, keeping their sense of individuality while also being in a Greek organization, and a sense of belonging within the Greek community)! I absolutely cannot wait to relay this information to our national board, our chapter consultants, and all of you!

—Julia Schuck, Associate Board Member

If you're interested in attending NGLA in 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA, the National Board awards scholarships to a few of our active members! Be on the lookout in late Fall 2025 for how to apply and get a change to attend this incredible event.

07

Association of Fraternity and Sorority Advisors (AFA)

by Marysa Mitrano, CEO and National President The Association for Fraternity and Sorority Advisors (AFA) hosts an annual conference that offers an invaluable opportunity for professionals in higher education to engage, learn, and collaborate. This year, Jayley Handley and I had the privilege of representing our organization at the event in Indianapolis. Spanning from Wednesday to Saturday, the conference is packed with breakout sessions, networking opportunities, and activities that foster collaboration between university representatives and fraternity and sorority professionals.

Throughout the weekend, Jayley and I made a concerted effort to attend different breakout sessions to maximize our learning while also engaging with numerous university advisors. As this was my first time attending a conference of this scale, I initially felt apprehensive about what to expect. To prepare, I had

meetings with Liz Jason, Courtney Stevens, and Jayley, who offered guidance on how to navigate the event.

Their advice gave me a clearer understanding of the event’s objectives, allowing me to make the most of the experience and better promote Kappa Delta Phi National Affiliated Sorority to universities unfamiliar with our organization. In addition to engaging with universities, we also explored the operational structures of other national organizations. These interactions not only expanded my professional network but also deepened the sorority’s connections within the broader fraternity and sorority community.

Several sessions I attended focused on organizational growth and developing a more robust Associate Board. One of the key takeaways was the importance of continuous self-assessment. We learned that an organization must regularly evaluate its practices to ensure that it is staying current and implementing best practices. When areas for improvement are identified, we must be adaptable and willing to refine our strategies to meet the needs of the time. Another important insight was the value of data-driven decisionmaking. By collecting and analyzing relevant data, organizations can make informed choices that align with long-term goals, ultimately driving sustainable growth.

Additionally, the conference shed light on how the expectations and values of incoming college students have evolved. It became clear that to remain relevant, our organization must create meaningful experiences for our members at both the chapter and organizational levels. This means demonstrating our value in ways that resonate with students today. Another key takeaway was the importance of consistent and strategic branding. Prospective members are drawn to organizations that make them feel a sense of belonging, and how we present ourselves can significantly influence their decision to join.

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The AFA conference was a transformative experience, providing invaluable insights and connections that will not only strengthen our organization but also enhance our ability to serve our members more effectively. Beyond the practical knowledge I gained, this event contributed significantly to my personal and professional growth. As a leader, I gained a deeper understanding of the qualities and skills that enable me to support my organization and its members. I recognized the areas where I still have room to grow and began developing strategies to become a more impactful and effective leader.

This conference allowed me to push past my initial hesitations and step into a leadership role that I had only begun to fully embrace. The networking opportunities and exposure to best practices from

other organizations reaffirmed my belief in the value of collaboration and adaptability. I left the conference not only with new knowledge but with an increased sense of confidence in my ability to lead and make meaningful contributions to our organization.

Ultimately, this experience reinforced the significance of continual growth, both as an individual and as a leader. The lessons I learned at the AFA Conference are ones I will carry with me as I continue my journey with Kappa Delta Phi N.A.S. and in my professional career.

Without the support and guidance of this organization, I would not be the leader I am today. I look forward to attending next year’s AFA Conference, where I will continue to build on these lessons and further develop as a leader—strengthening both my personal growth and my ability to guide this organization forward.

Alumnae are invited to join the Associate Board!

Applications are always available on our website.

09

Fall Board of Directors Meeting

by Ivanka Hernandez, Associate Board Member The Fall Board of Directors meeting took to the streets of Worcester, Massachusetts this past November! It is one of the four in person meetings the National and Associate board have. The boards focused on upcoming events such as Convention, expansion, the National Exam changes, and also other committees within the board including DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion). The board remains firm in making sure the organization is a safe, and inclusive, place for every sister.

The board also spent time bonding with one another, especially since between these events it is a lot of virtual work. We understand it takes a lot of commitment and love to make all of this work. This includes sister bonding events such as Manifestation Mirror making in which everyone decorated mirrors with positive words and mantras to have in their home. We even worked on our problem solving skills within groups of 3 doing Escape Rooms! Despite the frustrations, everyone made it out with smiles and laughs. As usual the board enjoyed a wonderful dinner with one another. The Fall Board meeting is a less fluttering time for those on the boards to hone in on specifics in person, but also enjoy one another's company.

Mid-Year Board of Representatives (BOR) Meeting

by Maddie Carroll, Assistant Vice President of Membership The National Board held a Board of Representatives Meeting on January 12th for the chapter presidents (or designated chapter delegate) to attend. The meeting is designed for chapters to provide feedback to the National Board and for them to help each other.

In the first part of the meeting, our Vice President of Membership, Jayley Handley, presented the goal of the BOR meeting. The National President, Marysa Mitrano, also guided the conversation through questions for the chapter presidents. The chapters shared what had gone well and what they struggled with as a chapter. The chapters could then offer advice on what they do in similar situations.

The chapters then had the opportunity to give feedback to the National Board regarding the most recent Summer Leadership Retreat. The majority of feedback was that they want more time on breakout sessions and less on ice breaker bonding activities, and more time learning how to be better in their positions, as we only have a short time together over that weekend. All in all, the chapters presented us with ways we can better help them so they succeed.

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“You cannot grow if you are comfortable.”

—Anonymous

The thing about personal growth is that, unlike what your elementary school teacher might’ve taught you, it is not always linear and it is not always upward. In order to become the version of yourself that you have always dreamed of, you will need to be challenged, but also challenge yourself. Don’t be afraid of failure. Don’t be afraid of criticism. Do be afraid of over criticism of yourself. Rome was not built in a day, and you cannot transform yourself in one night either.

Giving yourself the ability to fail and learn and try again is one of the greatest gifts that you can ever give yourself. With that being said, I hope that every day presents you with a new challenge that you can grow from, a new challenge so that you can always have the opportunity to learn and be shaped into the person that you would like to see yourself become some day.

—Julia Schuck, Associate Board Member

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Embracing the Journey

by Robyn Sarette, CFO and National Treasurer

A journey of change means growth, and growth can be uncomfortable. Growth is never easy. It often means stepping outside of what feels safe and familiar. But as I’ve learned, true transformation happens when we embrace the unknown.

In 2021, I made a life-changing decision to move to a new city. It wasn’t easy at first—learning new streets, finding my place, and building a new support system. Learning the quirks of my new home, my new neighbors, and how to avoid the school bus route. For three years, I commuted an hour back to my old job, balancing the comfort of the past with the challenges of the present. But with each passing day, I found myself adapting, exploring, and ultimately, creating a new home. Slowly but surely, the old areas I knew so well started to feel foreign as I missed the minute changes because I was spending so much time in my new area.

Then, in 2024, another shift happened. I finally left my old job behind and started fresh in my new city. It was intimidating, stepping into a different work environment, meeting new people, and proving myself all over again.

But with that change came a renewed sense of purpose and belonging. I realized that growth in our careers isn’t just about moving up—it’s about learning, evolving, and discovering new possibilities.

One of the most profound steps in my journey came in early 2025, when I started with a new therapist.

For years, I continued the conversation of my past with my previous therapist, but with a new counselor came a new perspective. This change has given me new clarity, self-awareness, and the courage to break old patterns.

Along the way, I’ve also learned to embrace the small acts of growth—trying new things, stepping into the unfamiliar, and saying “yes” to opportunities that scare me a little. Whether it’s exploring different neighborhoods, picking up new hobbies, or simply changing my routine, each little step has helped me gain confidence and a fresh perspective on life.

I realized that growth is a cycle; first the before feeling of “woah this is cool,” followed by the during feeling of “what did I do?,” then the after feeling of “that wasn’t so bad;” and again the “woah this is cool.” And every single time, we survive, we learn, and we grow.

So if you find yourself at a crossroads, wondering whether to take the leap—do it. Move, explore, learn, heal. Growth isn’t about arriving at a destination; it’s about the journey itself. And I promise, the discomfort of change is always worth the person you become on the other side.

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what growth feels like i'm not gonna make it!

woah!

before

during

that wasn't so bad!

again?!!

after

the next time

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Developing a Growth Mindset

by Maggie Gurewicz, Associate Board Member

College can be a time where you are experiencing new things, meeting new people, and experiencing so many life changes in such a short amount of time. Having a growth mindset has been a buzz word that has gone around for a long time. Growth mindset has a lot to do with perseverance. It’s not about changing what you say, it's changing how you say it. Having a growth mindset isn’t something that someone else can do for you, it is something that is internal work. Having a growth mindset is key in college. The reason why it’s a vital part to college is because college isn’t always going to be a walk in the park. It’s always okay to take a break, but giving up should never be the answer.

Today, I want to give you three goals that you can work toward to help develop your growth mindset:

#1: Learn to recognize and identify your negative self-talk language.

You may catch yourself thinking “I can’t do this” or "I am not smart enough for this.” These are all phrases that cultivate a fixed mindset, but if you change your thoughts to be “I can’t do this yet” or “I need to learn more about this,” it can change your outlook and help your mental health.

#2: Asking for more feedback.

Any form of criticism can be hard for someone, but we all know that we need it because it's how we grow. It's hard because we are admitting that we might not be perfect and it gives someone the opportunity to say things we don’t want to hear. Those are the things that we need to hear most. It's true when they say you learn the most from the people who are the most honest with you. We all need those people in our corners.

#3: Not letting your school work or job translate to your self-worth.

It’s very difficult to not let criticism at school and work impact your self worth. I know that first hand. It’s hard not to take things personally when you have put everything you have into it. At the end of the day, that one paper or that one thing that your boss said to you doesn't define who you are as a person. I like to use the rule of "if it won’t affect me in five years from now, I can’t let it affect me five minutes from now."

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Growing into the

Real World

by Samantha Justiniano, Secretary

While at college, I was constantly moving and staying busy. People were around at all times, just a few minute walk or drive away. In all honesty, I had very little time to pause and just have time to myself, but I loved it. I loved the chaos and changing schedules and the ever-present interactions.

One of the biggest things I wasn’t really prepared for upon graduating was the need to slow down and grow into “real life.” Like a lot of college students, when I graduated, I moved back home with my parents, who ironically had moved from my childhood house just a few months before. This meant I was going into a new neighborhood where even my “home” friends were not as easily nearby.

Here’s the thing though. Everyone else who was back was starting to get jobs. All of our schedules were all over the place, with some staying up super late and others getting up at 5 am. Some of my friends were moving or already lived in entirely different states. And suddenly just grabbing coffee had to be scheduled in. I couldn’t just walk down the hall of my college house and chat with one of my four housemates. The chaos that I was so used to thriving in had suddenly calmed and honestly it was shocking. I wasn’t really prepared for the nights alone, the lack of interactions, the time purely just to myself.

There was a need for me to grow as a person and find myself now in this new stage of life. At first, it was uncomfortable, but the months following my graduation were of immense growth for me as a person. I reconnected with hobbies, spent time tanning in the sun, and really found comfort not just in chaos but in the calm.

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The Connection between Physical and Mental Health From American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

si Phy

Menta l

c al

Cramps Stomach Flu High Blood Pressure Digestion

Headache Stomachache Stress Tolerance

Anxiety Feeling Like a Burden

Mood

Overwhelming Stress

Sleep

Difficulty Concentrating

Dizziness

Resilience

Broken Bones

Appetite

Constant Worry Depression

Allergies

Out of the Darkness Overnight Walk Why We Walk

The Experience

Register Today!

Once a year, thousands join together to walk through the night to fight suicide. The connections people make last a lifetime, and the funds you raise will save lives.

As you walk over 16 miles from dusk till dawn, you'll find support and understanding in a community of others affected by suicide. Together, we will help put a stop to this leading cause of death.

New York City

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June 21, 2025 TheOvernight.org

Suicide Data: United States From American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

10% of adult Americans have thought about suicide.

1.2 million Americans attempted suicide.

54% of Americans have been affected by suicide in some way.

90% of those who died by suicide had a diagnosable mental health condition at the time of their death.

72% of communities in the United States did not have enough mental health providers to serve residents in 2021, according to federal guidelines.

Men died by suicide 3.9x more often than females.

Females were 1.8x more likely to attempt suicide.

WA MT

VT

ND

OR

NH ME

MN ID

SD

MI

WY

IL CO

CA

AZ

KS

OK

NM

IN

OH

MO

VA

KY

DC

NC

TN AR

TX

NJ MD

WV

SC MS

AK

CT

PA

IA

NE

NV UT

MA

NY

WI

AL

RI

DE

States in the top third of suicide rates in the United States States in the middle third of suicide rates

GA

States in the lower third of suicide rates

LA FL

HI

Data as of February 2022. See more at afsp.org/statistics

Since 1987, AFS P has..

• Mobilized and connected tens of thousands of people who have lost someone to suicide • Reached thousands of individuals who are at risk for suicide, as well as those who love and care for them • Attracted the participation of members of the scientific and clinical communities, who conduct groundbreaking research on suicide and its prevention with support from AFSP

• Established local chapters in all 50 states • Educated hundreds of local communities about suicide and how to prevent it • Created a public policy and lobbying arm by merging successfully with an existing national policy organization, thus enabling AFSP to press for legislation and policies at the federal, state and local levels that advance the goal of preventing suicide

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Congratulations GRADUATES! TO OUR

Fall 2024

Spring 2025

Clea Cloutier, Kappa Upsilon

Syamimi Anuar, Kappa Alpha Xi

Emma Connolly, Kappa Alpha Gamma

Logan Bashkin, Kappa Alpha Omicron

Laura Medwar, Kappa Upsilon

Lexis Boles, Kappa Sigma

Veronica Monteverdi, Kappa Alpha Gamma

Alexandrea Bondinello, Kappa Alpha Nu

Samantha Shaffer, Kappa Alpha Xi

Brianna Brady, Kappa Alpha Nu

Bhavi Shah, Kappa Alpha Nu

Megan Brinck, Kappa Alpha Xi Zoee Clark, Kappa Sigma Gianna Collins, Kappa Alpha Nu Mackenzie Cronin, Kappa Alpha Nu Hailey Cunningham, Kappa Alpha Gamma

*This list was compiled from graduation dates listed on treasurer forms from the 2024-2025 school year.

We apologize for any errors, exclusions or misspellings.

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Jamie Deguio, Kappa Chi Andrea Dinis, Kappa Alpha Nu

Spring 2025 (continued)

Harleigh Dorrity, Kappa Alpha Xi Zyrafete Fazlija, Kappa Alpha Nu

Jaeda Orr, Kappa Alpha Iota

Valerie Galfano, Kappa Alpha Gamma

Mackenzie Parker, Kappa Chi

Maya Jenkins, Kappa Alpha Xi

Madison Phillips, Kappa Lambda

Nicole Lembo, Kappa Alpha Gamma

Saige Reisert, Kappa Alpha Gamma

Emily Lewin, Kappa Alpha Nu

Heather Ricci, Kappa Alpha Gamma

Grace Limoges, Kappa Chi

Alexis Rodriguez, Kappa Alpha Nu

Braeden Maher, Kappa Alpha Nu

Winnifred Russo, Kappa Alpha Iota

Sarah McNaughton, Kappa Alpha Nu

ShanAnn Simmons, Kappa Alpha Iota

Samantha Morales Barszcz, Kappa Sigma

Rebecca Taylor, Kappa Alpha Nu

Mia Moran, Kappa Alpha Omicron

Ava Toolsie, Kappa Alpha Nu

Madyson Morgan, Kappa Alpha Nu

Fiona Valore, Kappa Alpha Iota

Lauryn Munson, Kappa Alpha Xi

Paige Wallace, Kappa Alpha Nu

Alex Mushini, Kappa Alpha Omicron

Alexandra West, Kappa Upsilon

Maya Niznikiewicz, Kappa Alpha Nu

Chloe Wiechec, Kappa Alpha Omicron

Lauren Norman, Kappa Upsilon

Sarah Wilhide, Kappa Alpha Iota

Claudette Nunziato, Kappa Alpha Nu

Gia Yagan, Kappa Alpha Xi

Jaden Orloff, Kappa Alpha Omicron

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Chapter Reports Spring 2025

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Kappa Lambda

Husson University, Bangor, Maine

Last semester, Kappa Lambda welcomed three wonderful new members who have already taken on leadership roles. Additionally, sisters Madison and Morgan had the honor of meeting Husson University’s first female president, where they shared insights about our sorority.

A Message from your Chapter Consultant Kappa Lambda has been dedicated to strengthening their recruitment and sisterhood bonds. Despite challenges, they continue to move forward with determination. They are always a joy to work with, and I love seeing their growth.

-Jayley Handley

This semester, recruitment remains our top priority. We've been actively tabling at events, hosting a Valentine’s dance, and connecting with peers on Instagram.

Our "Coast to Coast" rush theme has been a success, and we’re excited to welcome six new members! After spring break, we look forward to New Member Education and integration into our sisterhood.

Our fundraising efforts have been fruitful—we raised $934 through Double Good popcorn sales and $130 from our Valentine’s dance, planned by Morgan in collaboration with Student Life. We are also organizing our second on-campus AFSP walk after last year’s success. Despite our busy schedule, sister bonding remains essential, with game nights, dinners, and coffee meetups.

Rebecca had the incredible opportunity to attend NGLA through a national scholarship, where she gained valuable insights on leadership and recruitment. Madison, as part of the Husson cheer team, coached by sisters Taylor and Megan, helped secure first place at NECA. Shannon has been excelling as social chair, creating engaging content and expanding our online presence. Meanwhile, Divine has been actively volunteering on campus, participating in MLK Jr. Day of Giving and the International Student’s Club.

Facebook: Kappa Delta Phi NAS-Kappa Lambda Chapter

Instagram: @kdpnas_hu

TikTok: @kdpnas_hu

This spring, we bid farewell to our president, Madison, as she graduates in May. She will be greatly missed, but we are excited for her future. We look forward to seeing our sisters at Convention and Summer Leadership Retreat.

May the Spirit Never Die! In Kappa, Kappa Lambda

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Kappa Sigma Plymouth State University, Plymouth, New Hampshire Facebook: Kappa Delta Phi N.A.S Kappa Sigma Chapter

Instagram: @kappa plymouthstate

The sisters of Kappa Sigma chapter have been hard at work these past few months! Our fourth Out of The Darkness Walk was a success last semester, raising a total of $1,908. This spring semester our philanthropy chairs, Olivia Neely, Hannah Parenteau, and Rowan Moore, are excited to announce some new fundraising projects, such as selling a custom blanket, 3v3 basketball tournament, and a bake sale!

We are excited to announce that we had a new class of four girls join us in the fall semester! They have been such a wonderful addition to our chapter, and we are excited to welcome two more girls later this spring! Between planning for fundraisers and recruiting new members, we manage to still find time for sisterhood bonding activities! We had fun painting pumpkins together in October, our yearly Kappa Thanksgiving in November, and a Yankee swap in December!

Not only do we stay connected with our active sisters through these events, but we are also updating our alumnae monthly thanks to Corrine McNamara, our alumni relations chair! Each month sisters are encouraged to share anything exciting that happened, and Corrine will compile a monthly newsletter that updates our alumni! We always get positive feedback, and feel much closer to our sisters both active and not active.

The sisters of Kappa Sigma are beyond grateful for the accomplishments that have been made in the past year, and the girls are looking forward to what the future might hold.

In Kappa, The sisters of Kappa Sigma chapter

Working with KS has been a fantastic experience, and I’m incredibly proud of their commitment to growing their chapter. They are well-rounded women who balance their dedication to Kappa with their academic achievements and involvement in the broader school community through sports, theater and leadership roles. I’m continually impressed by their hard work and dedication to the values of Kindness, Devotion, and Pride. It’s been a true pleasure getting to know each of them.

-Clare Furlong 22

Kappa Upsilon University of Massachusetts at Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts Our sisters have continued to work hard in balancing all aspects of KY as we continue to rise from all the obstacles that we have faced. This spring semester our recruitment theme was “KYC,” a city-style recruitment to welcome a new class of four into our community. Our sisters created many fun and creative events this recruitment season. Our sisters were able to bond with four amazing girls, and we are hoping to call them sisters next month.

As for productivity, our chapter has been working to put together our annual AFSP night and hoping to incorporate more clubs in our yearly event. We have been participating in various fundraisers and diligently planning our formal. Our actives are truly excited to celebrate the end of this school year with our alumnae again in a festive way this coming formal.

This past fall, we had some exciting strengthening in our chapter. Our sisters welcomed four new sisters with our recruitment theme “Dreaming of KY.” Our bonds are getting stronger with each class we welcome. In the fall, we attended an AFSP Out of Darkness Walk and Heart Association Walk. Our chapter has raised over $600 towards AFSP, and we are looking forward to raising more during AFSP Night. Our chapter planned alumnae events with great turnout, including Alumni BBQ, Kappasgiving, and Initiation Brunch.

We are continuing to highlight our pillars with continuous study sessions weekly that sisters join with new members.

Our sisters are incorporating more meaningful unity events that highlight our love and appreciation for each other.

Our passion for philanthropy continues to thrive with how our sisters want to enlarge AFSP night and the number of ways we as a chapter can work with AFSP. As our chapter continues to change in leadership and we are gradually learning and changing the ways we can continue to grow as a chapter. As we enter a new chapter in Kappa Upsilon, we are excited to see what new ideas our newest sisters bring into the chapter as the semester progresses.

With Kappa Kindness, Kappa Upsilon chapter

Facebook: Kappa Delta Phi NAS - Kappa Upsilon Chapter

Instagram: @kdpnas_uml & check out @kappawellness

TikTok: @kappaupsilon_ kdpnas

KY is nothing short of what an amazing chapter should be. They have come a long way this year growing their sisterhood in not only new members but also connections with each other.

I can't wait to see what they can accomplish next year!

-Robyn Sarette 23

Kappa Chi Southern New Hampshire University, Manchester, New Hampshire This semester has been an exciting and busy time for Kappa Chi! Our members have been working hard to foster a strong sense of community, supporting one another academically, and making a positive impact both within our sorority and on the SNHU campus.

One of the biggest highlights this semester was our “Dreaming of Kappa Chi” recruitment theme.

We welcomed an amazing group of new members who truly embody the values of our Kappa Delta Phi Facebook: Instagram: N.A.S. From themed decorations to a pasta dinner bid Kappa Chi @kappa_chi night celebration, it was incredible to see our chapter Chapter come together to make recruitment such a memorable experience. We are so excited to watch our new sisters grow and thrive in Kappa Chi.

TikTok: @kappa_chi

In addition to recruitment, we’ve been hard at work fundraising for our philanthropy. This semester, we hosted an online cookie dough fundraiser, sold Pura Vida bracelets, and organized fun events like Pie-a-Chi and candy grams.

These fundraisers not only helped support our philanthropy but also brought our sisters together while engaging with the campus community.

We've had so many amazing bonding events this semester! From PowerPoint Night to Kappa-Giving, Kappa-Christmas and Galentine’s, our chapter has made time to celebrate and create lasting memories. These events remind us just how special it is to be part of a sisterhood that truly feels like family.

Academically, our weekly study dates have been a huge success, providing a supportive and motivating environment to help us stay on top of our coursework. With midterms behind us and finals approaching, we’re committed to finishing the semester strong!

As we look back on this semester, we are so proud of everything our chapter has accomplished. From welcoming new sisters and hosting successful fundraisers to creating unforgettable memories at our bonding events, Kappa Chi continues to grow stronger each day. With finals approaching, we’re cheering each other on to finish the semester on a high note. We can’t wait to see what the next chapter holds for our sisterhood! Special congratulations to the graduates this semester, Jamie Deguio, Grace Limoges and Mackenzie Parker!

In Kappa, The Sisters of Kappa Chi This year with Kappa Chi has been incredibly rewarding as I’ve watched the Sisters grow. As my first year as their sole chapter consultant, I’m grateful for their support through challenges. Their compassion, resilience, and commitment to inclusivity shine through. They bring fun to even routine activities, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. I feel fortunate to have witnessed their growth and shared in their accomplishments.

-Ivanka Hernandez 24

Kappa Alpha Gamma State University of New York at New Paltz, New Paltz, New York The sisterhood at Kappa Alpha Gamma Chapter has never been stronger! We started the New Year right enjoying fun and relaxing winter breaks. A couple of us did some traveling—Nicole K. went on a ski trip in Utah and Hailey did volunteer work in Florida.

Barbara and Sara both had birthdays over break, and went on a cabin getaway trip with Saige to celebrate. Last fall was the last semester as active sisters for Heather and Nicole L. since they will be student teaching during their spring semester. As fun as winter break was, we were all so excited to come back to campus and be with our sisters again.

The new semester started off strong, jumping right into recruitment season. Our theme was “Kappa is out of this world”—an outer space/manifestation theme. We had some great events including moon rock painting, star sunglasses decorating and manifestation collages. We had a great turnout with recruitment with plenty of new girls showing interest. Huge shoutout to our recruitment team, with Gabby and Gillian on committee led by Olivia as our recruitment chair. We gave out four bids!

Instagram:

TikTok:

We had some great events this semester so far. Diversity and Inclusion @kdphinas_ @kdphinas Co-Chairs Sara and Gabby planned a women's heart week event where newpaltz newpaltz we all wrote letters for each other. Sisterhood chair Eliana planned some great events including a cookie decorating and picture frame making event. Recruitment Chair Olivia planned a sisterhood night where we all dressed in semi-formal attire and wrote speeches about what this sorority has done for us and shared our most cherished Kappa memories. Such an emotional night!

Consulting Kappa Alpha Gamma Shoutout to our E-Board this semester: Val was my first solo experience with Galfano as President, Sara Fiala as Vice chapter consulting and they have President, Nicole Keegan as Secretary, Barbara been so welcoming that I feel like Kane as Treasurer, Eliana Lucci as SergeantI’m an active of their chapter! This year they have at-Arms, Olivia Stein as Recruitment Chair and strengthened their sisterhood by going on “sister dates” Hailey Cunningham as New Member Educator. and have implemented going through their “Rose, Buds, and Thorns” before chapter. This practice celebrates successes and they rally around each other in times of need. They are open to learning, embracing new ideas or perspectives, and challenge themselves to think outside the box and grow. I am so proud and honored to be their chapter consultant everyday!

-Julia Schuck

Many of our sisters are graduating this semester; Heather, Nicole L, Val, Hailey, Sara, and Saige.

We will miss them so much but we know they will go on to do great things!

In Kappa, Kappa Alpha Gamma Chapter

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Since Fall 2024, we have had a lot going on here at the Kappa Alpha Iota chapter! This semester, as a chapter, we have grown so much! We have grown in size as well as in our goals. This semester, we made it our goal to collaborate with other sororities on campus, and we most definitely did not disappoint!

KAI has embraced openness, collaboration, and a strong commitment to growth. They have approached position transitions with problem-solving and teamwork, strengthening their sisterhood along the way. Their positive outlook and determination set them apart, and I’m incredibly proud of their progress and the community they continue to build.

One of our fan-favorite collaborations so far was the Valentine’s Day Family Feud Sisterhood event, which we hosted with another sorority here at Ship!

-Nicole Hallahan

Kappa Alpha Iota Shippensburg University, Shippensburg, Pennsylvania

This semester, we welcomed six wonderful, beautiful new members! Please welcome Lexi Malseed, Alex Insley, Lupita Hernandez, Jordyn Grandstaff, Campbell Zortman, and Emily Merritt!

To support our goal of strengthening our bonds as a sorority, we have recently incorporated weekly sisterhood dinners! This has been a great way to welcome our new members as well as support our sisters.

Instagram: TikTok: For recruitment, our theme was “You’ll Always Find Your Way Back Home.” @shipkdphinas @shipkdpnas One of our sisters’ favorite memories from this time was watching our new members run home! It was beyond heartwarming to see six amazing girls ecstatic to join Kappa Delta Phi N.A.S., bringing so many exciting ideas to help grow our chapter’s mission.

One of the accomplishments our sisters are most proud of this semester is our brand deals! Our favorite collaborations so far have been with Silly Bandz and LaCroix! To highlight these partnerships, we organized an amazing photoshoot.

We are beyond proud and grateful for our Social Media Chair, Hailey Mostoller, for securing these opportunities!

Our sisters are working hard here at Ship, and we intend to keep up the good work!

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Kappa Alpha Nu University of Albany, Albany, New York

Kappa Alpha Nu has had an exciting and impactful year so far! Our sisters have been dedicated to making a difference on campus and in the community through service, philanthropy, and sisterhood.

Instagram: @kappa_ ualbany

TikTok: @ualbany kdphinas

In the fall, we successfully hosted Kappa Week, which was filled with philanthropy events for AFSP. From crafting cards for those in need to spreading awareness through a suicide prevention slideshow, we came together to support this important cause. Our philanthropy bingo board also aided in raising money towards our donation, along with $1,000 raised by the chapter as a whole!

Beyond our philanthropy, we proudly introduced four amazing new members to our sisterhood last semester! Their energy and passion have already contributed so much to our chapter, and we are excited to see them continue to grow.

Our commitment to service extended into the local community with our participation in the Pine Hills Cleanup.

Our sisters worked together to keep the neighborhood clean and beautiful, showing our dedication to making a positive impact beyond campus.

Most recently, we celebrated sisterhood with a Super Bowl potluck, bringing everyone together for a night of fun, food and bonding. Moments like these remind us of the strength and support within our chapter.

As we move forward in the semester, we look forward to more opportunities to give back, grow and strengthen our sisterhood. Thank you to all our sisters for your hard work and dedication!

May the Spirit Never Die! In Kappa, Kappa Alpha Nu

KAN has gone through a lot of growth in the last year, something that is evident in their much improved communication with me and the National Board. I am hopeful that I will get to continue to work with this fun group of girls who always managed to keep me on my toes!

-Sam Justiniano 27

Kappa Alpha Xi Utica College, Utica, New York

The sisters of Kappa Alpha Xi had such a wonderful fall semester and winter break. We’ve held so many fundraisers so far for not only AFSP but also for CRPS in support of one of our once sisters. These have consisted of bake sales, bracelet fundraisers, prize board, Nothing Bundt Cakes and more. Our sister Brooke planned the most perfect and successful ladies night with other Greek sororities. This has allowed us to grow even stronger bonds with the other sororities on campus.

Our recruitment chairs Olivia and Cheyanne did such a great job planning recruitment this semester with our theme, “Head Over Boots for Kappa.” We held events such as candle painting and we learned to line dance.

Alongside of our recruitment chairs, our philanthropy chairs Eniyah and Emily have been working hard to plan our upcoming Out of the Darkness Walk this spring.

Along with all the fun we have had this semester, our sisters have been working extremely hard on their academics. Our sisters Brooke, Cheyanne, and Syamimi all finished the fall semester with a 4.0 GPA. We couldn't be more proud of them for accomplishing this goal. We also want to congratulate our sister Megan for getting accepted into NYU Graduate School of Social Work. We are also extremely proud of everyone else who is succeeding academically and working at the same time. We have sisters that work in all different types of environments such as hospitals, schools, athletic centers, EMS and more.

Instagram: @kdphinas_utica

TikTok: @kdphinas_utica

We also want to thank our E-board for starting our spring semester strong as some are new to an E-board position: Olivia (President), Nisa (Vice President), Dee (Treasurer/Sergeant-At-Arms), Brooke (Secretary), Cassidy (Chaplin-Historian). We wouldn’t be able to run these positions if it wasn’t for the help of our sisters who previously held these positions and will will be graduating in the spring. We will greatly miss these girls but we know they are going to do great things.

In Kappa, The Sisters of Kappa Alpha Xi The Kappa Alpha Xi chapter is full of energy, love, and strong relationships, fostering a deep sense of community. Their passion and devotion shine through in everything they do. I love working with them and witnessing their dedication to each other and their commitment to building a supportive sisterhood.

-Angelica Masser 28

Kappa Alpha Omicron State University of New York at Oswego, Oswego, New York This semester has been an incredibly successful one for the Kappa Alpha Omicron chapter, marked by significant achievements in philanthropy, sisterhood, and recruitment. One of our upcoming initiatives for this semester is our first annual walk for The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention on the Oswego State campus. We are expecting the event’s success to be evident in the heartfelt responses from participants attending. We are excited to further extend awareness about mental health and suicide prevention.

In addition, we also took philanthropic action through fundraisers, including an event held at The Mix, a local business in Oswego. The Mix partnered with our chapter to create a "Kappa Delta Phi N.A.S. Power Tea" and host a fundraiser for the AFSP. This partnership highlighted the power of community involvement to come together with local businesses to support philanthropy. We are very appreciative of our philanthropy chair, Katie, for finding new ways to raise awareness and putting her heart and soul into supporting AFSP. Beyond our philanthropic efforts, we have also focused on creating a successful recruitment. This semester, we welcome our Nu New Member Class, bringing five dedicated New Members into our chapter. Their kindness and commitment to our values are evident, and we are looking forward to their growth and contributions to our chapter. Recruiting New Members is always an important milestone in our chapter. We would like to thank our Recruitment Chair, Jaden, as well as the Recruitment Committee for their efforts that led our chapter to a successful recruitment this semester.

This semester, our Sisterhood Chair, Ava, has planned meaningful bonding events for our chapter that foster a deeper connection and sisterhood among our members. Through events such as game nights and canvas painting, our members have shared countless moments, strengthening the bonds we all cherish and building an even stronger sisterhood.

Overall, this semester has been a testament to our sorority’s dedication to service, leadership, and sisterhood. We are incredibly proud of what we have accomplished and look forward to our continued growth in the future.

In Kappa, Kappa Alpha Omicron chapter

Instagram: @kappaoswego

TikTok: @kappaoswego

As always, Kappa

Alpha Omicron is staying

busy with their semester

activities. They had a successful recruitment, currently completing New Member Education process, and are eager to continue growing together in sisterhood. Thank you to all the sisters for all you do!

-Ally Wesner 29

Alumnae Spotlight:

Jennifer (Shipp) Jackson Kappa Upsilon, Spring 2006

If you would have asked me when I was young if I would ever join a sorority, I’d probably tell you no. It’s not that I was against the idea for any particular reason, it was just because I didn’t think I fit the typical role of a “sorority girl.” Little did I know, I would ultimately become a super Kappa.

I was first introduced to the sorority through my childhood best friend when I went and visited her at college. At the time, I was attending Northern Essex Community College and looking to transfer to UMASS Lowell. My best friend was in Kappa Upsilon and introduced me to some other sisters. It wasn’t long before I was hooked.

I didn’t feel pressure to rush, it just felt right.

You’ve heard the saying “when you know, you know.”

Well. when I was presented with the opportunity to rush KY, I jumped in with both feet.

Before transferring to UMass Lowell, I was pretty reserved and quiet (shocking, I know!). For a long time, I just did my own thing and didn’t really step out of my comfort zone too often. Kappa gave me the inspiration and passion to try new things, meet new people, and see how creative I could be.

At the time when I joined, which was in Spring 2006, we were a fairly small chapter. My first role in the chapter was Secretary, and the following school year, I became President. I held that position for two years and it was the most nerve-wracking and exciting opportunity I had ever been presented with at the time. At first, I thought

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to myself, “am I even qualified to do this?

Can I do this successfully? I don’t want to let the chapter down.” Pushing myself to grow as an individual and grow within the chapter felt amazing.

After graduating, I thought maybe I’ll take a step back from Kappa and enjoy a little break, however, the sisterhood had other plans for me. I was quickly recruited to the National Board and got to experience some of the most amazing moments of my life.

I joined the Expansion Committee and got to take part in creating new Emerging Chapters. This allowed me the opportunity to travel to places I had never been before, nor ever thought I would go, meet people from other chapters, expand my family tree, and so much more.

After a few years on the Board, I held various positions and towards the end of my tenure, I became the National Treasurer. Taking on that role was terrifying in so many ways. Not only was I responsible for the financial wellbeing of the entire sorority, I also was tasked with speaking to the entire membership at each National meeting throughout the year. One thing about me is that I am terrified of public speaking. I get a pit in my stomach, and pretty much black out until it’s over. Speaking at the chapter level as President seemed so effortless, yet I couldn’t translate that on the Board level, or so I thought.

The more you do something that challenges you, the

better you get at it. I wanted to be a leader for our membership and instead of remaining on the sidelines, I rose to the occasion and exceeded my own expectations.

I ended up spending ten amazing years on the National Board. The life skills that I have learned from Kappa have taken me to where I am today, and I am so grateful for that. Towards the end of my time on the board, I learned that there is also growth in knowing how and when to pass the torch. I reached my personal peak and stepped away knowing I was leaving the sorority in great hands.

Step out of your comfort zone and achieve goals you never thought possible. You are setting the example for sisters after you and sorority life encourages reflection on who you are and what you value. With support from sisters and involvement in various activities, you can discover your strengths, passions, and areas for growth.

Enjoy this time in your life and make the most of it.

In Kappa, Jennifer Jackson Sister Mouth | 2923 | Spring 2006

In need of some Kappa swag?

www.kappadeltaphinas.org/online-merch-store 31

Kappa Delta Phi N.A.S. Alumnae Association, Inc. Dear Sisters of KDPNAS, Inc. Welcome to 2025. The semester is well underway, and we are already preparing for the annual convention.

Time passes quickly; seemingly too quickly. I must remind myself to be mindful about what I do and how much I will do for myself and for others. It isn’t something I would have necessarily thought about in my 20s, 30s, or even 40s. Fifty didn’t phase me much either, but the past decade coupled with the realization that I will embrace a seventh decade this year has had a more profound effect.

Growth is a broad topic. There are many forms of growth—personal growth, professional growth, spiritual growth, positive growth, and the effects of negative growth. From Socrates to our present-day world leaders, civilization has strove to define it in profound and meaningful ways. Someone said, “growth is often uncomfortable, messy, and full of feelings you weren’t expecting.” I personally like this quote by Elizabeth Kubler-Ross—“We make progress in society only if we stop cursing and complaining about its shortcomings and have the courage to do something about it.” This tells me that I need to look inward and not expect growth (aka change) to happen without personal involvement.

So, what is a recipe for personal growth? I expect it to mean focusing on continued learning and selfawareness. That means setting clear goals and identifying those areas you truly wish to improve. You may have to actively step outside of a comfort zone or accept that change is inevitable. Self-reflection is one part while the ability to seek input from others is another.

Taking purposeful steps to reach your goals also means building positive habits focusing on learning and selfawareness. Reflect on strengths and weaknesses and engage in activities that promote both physical and mental health (positivity). Be good to your body through exercise, meditation, nutrition, and sleep. Set goals, but don’t be afraid to reassess the journey. Are you making

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progress toward your goals? No? Then be prepared to make changes. Seek out those who can give you the guidance and support you need. It is okay to take time to reach your goals and aspirations, and once you’ve arrived be sure to celebrate the achievements (even the small ones along the way).

The recipe for professional growth isn’t so different than a recipe for personal growth. This involves reaching beyond yourself and taking risks. Make it a point to learn something new on a continuous basis. Build a strong network of people who are willing to allow you to see your reflection in them and visa versa. Everyone needs a witness or witnesses to their life. Take on challenging projects and roles. Put what you’ve learned to good use.

Don’t be afraid to fail! Winston Churchill said, “success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” He also said, “you will make all kinds of mistakes; but as long as you are generous and true and also fierce you cannot hurt the world or even seriously distress her.” I like the fierce reference. I’d like to think that there have been times in my life when I have been fierce, and I pray that I’ll be fierce again each time I need it. Lastly, whatever you do, do it with enthusiasm even when you think that you’re experiencing one failure after another. In my nearly seventy years on this planet, I have made a lot of mistakes. I’ve also experienced a lot of personal and professional growth that I have both internalized and shared with others. Kappa Delta Phi National Affiliated Sorority and our ΚΔΦNAS Alumnae Association are two positives that will help you along your journeys in this life.

May the spirit never die.

In the love and spirit of our sisterhood I remain, Susan M. Dyer Taylor KM 1975 Executive Director Emeritus ΚΔΦNAS, Inc. and President of ΚΔΦNAS Alumnae Association, Inc. 50 years a sister 1975–2025

It’s Okay to Ask for Help Mental Health Resources for Yourself and Your Friends Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

988 Press 1 for Veterans | Press 2 for Spanish

Crisis Text Line

Text TALK to 741741 for English Text AYUDA to 741741 for Spanish Text with a trained counselor for free 24/7

RAINN

National Sexual Assault Hotline Lifeline: 1-800-656-4673 Chat via hotline.rainn.org

TWOLHA

Connect to mental health resources in your community at twolha.com/find help

The Trevor Project

TrevorLifeline: 1-866-488-7386 TrevorText: text TREVOR to 1-202-304-1200 TrevorChat: thetrevorproject.org

National Alliance for Eating Disorders Helpline: 1-866-662-1235 allianceforeatingdisorders.com

National Eating Disorders Associating nationaleatingdisorders.org

Seize the Awkward seizetheawkward.org @seizetheawkward

afsp.org/resources