Theta Phi Alpha's The Compass

A tribute to two remarkable QFA alumnae

COMPASS

OF THETA PHI ALPHA

Theta Phi Alpha is a national women’s fraternity, founded in 1912 at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, and reveres as its Founders: Amelia McSweeney, Mildred Connely, May C. Ryan, Selma Gilday, Camilla Ryan Sutherland, Helen Ryan Quinlan, Katrina Caughey Ward, Dorothy Caughey Phalan, Otilia Leuchtweis O’Hara, and Eva Stroh Bauer Everson.

The Grand Council of Theta Phi Alpha 2022-2024

• Kristin Windeshausen Henkenius, AP –National President

• Jessica Holthaus Ballman, E – National Vice President-Collegians

• Ainsley Robson, AT – National Vice President-Alumnae

• Kristin Mauer Rodriguez, BA – National Vice President-Extension

• Candice Redmond Bender, BL – National Vice President-Programming

• Lisa Mottern Grace, BR – National Executive Secretary

• Katie Evans, AN – National Treasurer

Submission Deadlines for The Compass

Fall - June 15 // Spring - December 15

Compass Reports for chapters and emerging chapters are due via the Officer Portal on June 15 and December 15. All other submissions to The Compass, such as Between Sisters and feature article ideas, are accepted at any time of year by emailing compass@thetaphialpha.org.

The Compass is dedicated to publishing educational material pertinent to the membership of Theta Phi Alpha in collegiate chapters, alumnae associations, and to individual members.

Send address changes, vital statistics, in memoriam, and Fraternity business correspondence to the National Office.

Theta Phi Alpha National Office

27025 Knickerbocker Road Bay Village, Ohio 44140-2300

(440) 899-9282

ThetaPhiNO@thetaphialpha.org

the Editor

I am very inspired by the women mentioned in this issue. They have caused me reflect on what Theta Phi Alpha has given me, how she has inspired me, and what it means to have appreciation for the Fraternity. Living or deceased, there have been sisters in our lives who have done the same for many of us.

I am looking forward to highlighting many more women who encourage us, inspire us, and challenge us in future issues.

For now, please enjoy reading about Nathali’s story about her journey and struggle with endometriosis. We can all relate to her struggle, regardless of what diagnosis or disease we have faced. Thank you, Nathali, for sharing your story!

Please continue to share this magazine with those sisters who may not have received it. Please encourage them to update their contact information in the membership portal so that more sisters can read The Compass!

Happy reading!

Lauren Svec Gallo Editor-in-Chief

IN THIS ISSUE:

Senior Editorial Team

Lauren Svec Gallo, BB, Editor-in-Chief

Lisa Mottern Grace, BR, National Executive Secretary

Jennifer King, Director of Communications

Writing and Editing Team

Karen Jenkins Rubican, AΣ

Kathryn Owsianiecki

Hartmann, GI, Executive Director

Contributors

Kathleen Sullivan, AG

Nathali Zamora, GP

Design

Meredith Federle

MESSAGE FROM our PRESIDENT

I hope you enjoy this issue of The Compass. This is the second issue that we are able to share with all our members who have a valid email in the database due to changes in the National Constitution and Bylaws at the 2022 National Convention. Please share this issue with members who did not receive it and encourage them to update their contact information in the database at my.thetaphialpha.org.

Our motto from St. Catherine of Siena states, Nothing great is ever achieved without much enduring. Nathali Zamora, GP, shows us what this motto means through the story of her personal battle with endometriosis and how she is helping others to advocate for their bodies and healthcare. I encourage you to read this article and share the information with others.

As the Grand Council continues to work on our strategic goals for the biennium, which are to define the membership experience for all stages of membership and create a plan to achieve financial sustainability. These goals cannot be met without the support of our membership. To assist in the efforts of accomplishing our strategic goals, the Theta Phi Alpha Foundation provides a variety of ways for our members to financially support our Fraternity through donations to leadership education, programming, and technology. You can read more information about the Foundation and how to make a donation via the Theta Phi Alpha Foundation website.

The spring, especially April, is a special time for Theta Phi Alpha, as we have a lot to celebrate with Founders' Day and National Volunteer Month. I hope that during the month of April, each of you were able to celebrate with sisters, share fond memories, and make plans to gather in the future. Thank you to all of our members who volunteer for our organization. Without the dedication, time, and support that our members give to Theta Phi Alpha, we could not achieve our goals or advance our mission. Theta Phi Alpha appreciates you!

Yours in the bonds of sisterhood,

Kristin Henkenius National President

EPSILON CHAPTER ADVISOR WINS AFLV AWARD

Congratulations to Samantha Clark, E, on recently being award the Wilford A. Butler Award from the Association of Fraternal Leadership & Values!

The Wilford A. Butler Award recognizes an outstanding fraternity/sorority alumna who volunteers their time to support the acceleration of progress in the fraternity/sorority experience and is not the fraternity/sorority professional on campus.*

Sam has spent many years working and volunteering with the Epsilon Chapter. She currently serves Theta Phi Alpha as a Chapter Manager and Recruitment Specialist. Sam is also the president of the Greater Cincinnati Alumnae Association.

Jessica Ballman, E, National Vice PresidentCollegians, had wonderful words to share about Sam.

Samantha Clark has been a constant for Theta Phi Alpha for years. The Epsilon Chapter exceeds expectations during recruitment because of her support and understanding of the recruitment process. The members of Epsilon are heard, understood and cared for by Sam every day. She also supports the national organization as a necessary and exemplary part of the extension team. Sam is so much to so many, but most importantly, she is a friend. She is what we, as Theta Phi Alphas, stand for. She is fair, kind, and tells it how it is. Her friendship is so sweet and if you ever get the chance to spend time with her, take it. She will only improve your life!

Sam has always been there by our chapter’s side and helped wherever and whenever our chapter needed it. She has been so reliable and it is so apparent that she cares about Theta Phi so much. Our chapter loves her, and we are so excited to work with her more in the future!”

– Anna Ackerman, E

Congratulations, Sam!

QFA Mourns Loss of Sigma

Guard of Honor Wearer

It is with great sadness that Theta Phi Alpha announces the passing of (Mary) Barbara Plageman Henterly, age 100, on Sunday, Feb. 5, 2023.

Barbara was initiated in 1941 into the Sigma Chapter at the University of Akron in Akron, Ohio. She was awarded the Guard of Honor (#42) in 1970. She served the Fraternity as the secretary and director of Founders’ Foundation (now Theta Phi Alpha Foundation). While living in Detroit from 1946 to 1956, she helped the Detroit Alumnae Association train and install the Phi Chapter at the University of Detroit. Barbara was the pledge mistress* for the Charter Members of the Phi Chapter. When she moved back to Ohio, she was appointed to the Founders’ Foundation. She also joined a bridge club that, at the time, was already twenty years old and made up entirely of Theta Phis!

Barbara was 100 years old and is survived by her six children. Her truly inspiring dedication to family and faith is highlighted in the obituary listed from the Akron Beacon Journal.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Barbara’s family and the Sigma sisters as they mourn her loss.

*The term pledge mistress is a former title of what we now consider the new member educator.

QFA Mourns the Loss of Nu Chapter Alumna

It is with great sadness that Theta Phi Alpha announces the passing of Eleanor "Bee" Davidsaver, age 95, on Sunday, December 30, 2022.

Bee was initiated into the Nu Chapter at University of Wisconsin–Madison on December 8, 1946. She was the Rush (Recruitment) Chairman and Vice President during her collegiate years. As an alumna, Bee served as a Province Governor and was elected to the Board of Trustees in 1970 for a two-year term. She also served as the Madison Area Alumnae Association President from 2000-2016.

We were lucky to spend some time with Bee recently at the 2022 National Convention. Two of Bee’s children, Gary and Kristi, accompanied her to Memphis so that we could enjoy her company. Having Bee at Convention was a pleasure for all those who attended.

Back in 2021, Pat Giallanza, U, and Marie Sumara, AI, visited Bee at her home in Monona, Wisconsin. They were able to document some of Bee’s memories for our historical records. Thank you, Pat and Marie, for sharing these wonderful memories!

Bee graduated high school and set off for Washington, D.C. During World War II, the federal government was searching for top high school graduates from across the country to help fill office jobs in either Chicago or Washington, D.C. Bee’s mother encouraged her, “Go as far as you can, see as much as you can.” Bee worked for six months for the Department of the Navy, remembering the beautiful views of the Washington Monument and Reflecting Pool from her office window. She returned home after the six months to enroll at UW–Madison (paying for school with the bonds that she bought while she worked in Washington, D.C.).

How did Bee join Theta Phi Alpha? Her mother found her a temporary home that would allow Bee to stay there. After she moved in (to Theta Phi Alpha’s home), she thought she should join, as it wasn’t fair to stay there and not be a member.

When she toured the Theta Phi house, she remembers that she had to take her turn in making coffee for the residents. She made it once, and they said, “That’s okay. You don’t have to do it any longer.” She thought she might have made the coffee too strong, but it saved her the task.

Bee graduated in 1949 and married her husband, Bill, in June, at the St. Paul’s Catholic Student Center. She continued her involvement with the Fraternity, visiting chapters and helping them improve and stay connected to the National Office. She attended many National Conventions, including the 1970 Convention where Bee and Edith Somerset Hilton, H, were elected to the Board of Trustees together.

To read more about Bee’s life, her obituary can be found here.

Top to bottom: Bee (pictured at right with glasses) at the 1966 National Convention in Chicago, with Patricia Manelski Giallanza, U , (second from left) Puddy D'Esposito Larsen, U , Jean Cusack, B, (standing), Toni Blaney Driscoll, U , and Judy Medich, U (standing). Bee (center) during the Compass Club Luncheon at Convention.

Happy Founders’ Day!

In September, I had hapter at the University of Pittsburgh. The reconnecting and new bonds being made - all because of Theta Phi Alpha.

At the celebration, attendees were fortunate to hear words of wisdom from Irene Caliendo, Kappa. Irene is a wearer of the Guard of Honor, a Sapphire Circle member, has served the Fraternity in many roles, including on the Grand Council, and was the chapter president at Kappa’s 50th celebration. Irene’s words resonated with me and I would like to share them with you.

“Kappa remains standing in some measure due to the efforts of every person in this room and of some who are unable to be with us today Kappa remains standing because of those who went before and who gave of themselves and shared their talents and their time and their friendship and their sisterhood. Kappa exists in 2022 because many sisters routinely lived our values and our creed. Many sisters exhibited loyalty, justice, wisdom, truth, honor, and faith to the benefit of Kappa and our sisters and we continue to build on it all.”

As I heard Irene’s words, I thought all of us could substitute Theta Phi Alpha for Kappa. Theta Phi Alpha is celebrating 111 years of sisterhood because of our members, past and present, who have invested their energies, abilities, and talents to our sisterhood. We have evolved as an organization and will continue to do so to stay relevant to our members and future members.

Irene continued with these words. “Membership for life - this is what it means. A lifetime of friendship, a lifetime of meaningful relationships, a lifetime of sharing our accomplishments and milestones, our happiness, and our sorrow. And a lifetime of contribution to Kappa and to Theta Phi Alpha.”

As I listened to Irene’s words, I felt like Irene was saying everything my heart feels about Theta Phi Alpha. As we celebrate Founders’ Day, think about the fond memories you have because of Theta Phi Alpha and the special sisters who are a part of these memories, the connections that continue today, and the you share your life with, and who wouldn’t be there if it Loyal, Ever Lasting sisterhood by treasuring the gift of

by Nathali Zamora, Gamma Pi

Endometriosis… That Word

That word. Endometriosis. The soft glow of my phone shone on my face in the middle of the night. I was having another night of pain-induced insomnia. A stabbing pain in my left pelvic side, that wouldn’t let me sleep. I had already taken eight ibuprofen pills that day, and the horrific acid reflux that was currently burning my throat was warning me that I shouldn’t have another. I focused back on the screen: endometriosis. I read the word again, and the definition. As I looked through the list of symptoms, I thought to myself, “Why am I looking for more answers?” I already had two gynecologists tell me the pain was normal, the excessive bleeding was normal, and the fainting was normal. The first gynecologist in fact, shamed me for having sex, prescribed birth control, because she said I was hell bent on ruining my life. She didn’t even address the pain.

I took “the word” to a third gynecologist. “Endometriosis,” she repeated back to me. “You really shouldn't google symptoms, you get all kinds of things that don’t make sense,” she said. “Besides, you are too young to have endometriosis, and your pain is normal.” I left dejected. Another month passed, and I fainted again, on my way home from a trip to the mall with my sister.

I saw a fourth gynecologist. I said “the word” to her. “This isn’t gynecological,” she said. “This is gastroenterological,” she said. I went back to my primary care doctor and explained all my symptoms again. He pushed me to see one more gynecologist.

I waited months. I was beginning to believe I was just weak. If four doctors were telling me the pain was normal, then it had to be. I had a few more ER visits, where I was given morphine and loaded up with opioids. I never took them, mostly because they didn’t help the pain and I was afraid of dependency. As the oldest first-generation American in my family, I couldn’t make any mistakes. I had no safety net and the pressure was on me to change the trajectory of the family. How could I complain about pain, when my parents had jobs where they sacrificed their bodies non-stop for me? My mother worked a physical job, taking care of adults with intellectual disabilities, as a single mother. She would work 70 hours a week sometimes, and I never heard her complain about pain or feeling tired. My only job was to go to school, get good grades, and behave. How could my pain matter when I had it so easy, or so I thought?

PHOTOS COURTESY OF NATHALI ZAMORA

I finally decided to see a fifth gynecologist after a particularly debilitating episode. Focusing in undergrad became impossible, and between my two jobs, I was sleeping any moment I was at rest. This new doctor was kind and listened. Like the other visits, the routine gynecological exam was excruciatingly painful. I would often cramp and bleed after a routine check-up. When we went back to the gynecologist's office, he looked at me and said, “I believe you have endometriosis, I am so sorry, this is an awful disease. I can only know for sure if we do laparoscopic exploratory surgery and biopsy the tissue. It is painful, there is no cure, and the only way to treat it is with a hysterectomy. You may likely never have children, but you should try now, and I’ll perform a hysterectomy after.”

It felt like my soul had floated away from my body and was looking at me. Hysterectomy? What was that? No children? Surgery? Once his words had settled in, I cried. From relief and from what felt like a hundred decisions I had to make. Being validated by him, after being told my so many medical professionals that I was fine, was emotionally overwhelming.

“Ok,” I said. “Let’s do it, the surgery.”

I was 21-years-old. I had a diagnosis. The pathology report came back with “that word.” Endometriosis

My gynecologist performed an ablation, a procedure that burns tissue, on the endometriosis lesions he saw. Essentially he burned the top off the endometriosis lesions. I didn’t know then that this wasn’t the appropriate treatment. After the surgery, the aftercare was that I return to normal life two weeks after; that I was to let

him know when I was trying to have kids because it would be difficult.

I didn’t finish college that semester. I failed all my classes. I had to quit my job, because I couldn’t lift anything too heavy.

It would be the beginning of things my body tried to warn me about for the next 11 years.

At 24, I’d be diagnosed with hypothyroidism which my primary care doctor assured me he could manage.

Every time I exercised, I’d be in excruciating pain after. Five years after my diagnosis, I was in pelvic pain all the time. I had strange pains up and down my legs. I began to gain some weight, because every year, my mobility decreased. “Lose weight,” my doctors would tell me, despite my excellent bloodwork and my constant overexercising.

At 27, however, my blood work suddenly changed. My liver was at danger levels of an alcoholic. I barely drank. A biopsy showed I had NonAlcoholic Fatty Liver disease. I told my same primary care doctor about my pain and my endometriosis. “It has nothing to with it,” is what I was told. No other tests were run on me.

“Lose weight,” they said. I overexercised and did every diet you could think of. My pelvic pain worsened. I’d have a few more ER visits. But this was my life. Twelve ibuprofen pills a day during my period week and four to six ibuprofen pills every day after and before.

By 29, my mobility was at an alltime low. I had never given up hope that there had to be an alternative treatment for endometriosis. I was

vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian; I ran, I rowed, I did Zumba, and I even I tried lifting weights. None of this would last long, because the pain was always there. Pulsing. It felt like someone was cutting my insides with razor blades and rubbing lime and salt in the wounds.

I stopped wearing my favorite colorful clothes, and I stopped wearing heels because I’d be in excruciating pain after. I wore whatever was loose and comfortable. I walked tenderly, to avoid too much movement, otherwise each step sent a shockwave of pain up my spine. If you’re wondering how I kept a job and social life, I’m not quite sure either. Whenever I wasn’t with people, I was in a fetal position and sleeping. I was too embarrassed to tell anyone I was in pain, especially because I didn’t know why. People got the best version of me, and I always made sure never to let anyone see me suffer. My doctors, partners, and family attributed my lack of energy and pain to not being healthy enough. I believed them.

2019 was different. I found Nancy’s Nook, a Facebook group, all volunteerdriven by endometriosis patients and what I like to call the punk rockers of the medical community. I buried myself in the information. I learned that none of my gynecologists knew how to treat endometriosis because they were being guided by an outdated theory taught in medical school. The incorrect definition is still on the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecology Association’s (ACOG) website today. Dr. Sampon's theory of retrograde menstruation blames the inner lining of the uterus somehow escaping the uterus via retrograde menstruation

as the cause. This was accepted as the theory at the time. However, newer, better research shows that retrograde menstruation occurs in 90% of people who menstruate –and yet endometriosis is only found in about 10%! Furthermore, upon studying the endometriosis lesions in the body, and even by Sampson’s research, endometriosis lesions are similar to the tissue in the lining of the uterus, but they aren’t the same tissue and have hundreds of differences! Endometriosis has been found in people assigned male at birth and even in fetuses. These new findings clearly show this isn’t a menstruation disease nor related to the uterus. It’s actually a systemic inflammatory disease that has been found on every organ in the body!

Why are doctors so grossly behind on treatment? Endometriosis expert Dr. Jeffrey Arrington explains, “Gynecologists are terribly “miseducated” about endometriosis treatment. This largely relies on the inadequate surgical education we receive. General gynecologists simply do not leave residency with the skill to identify and remove Endometriosis in all its presentations and locations. When met with disease that they can’t treat, they run to the only “treatment” they have been trained to provide, hysterectomy and castration. Most of them have not reviewed any literature or received any education in Endometriosis management since leaving residency. Their knowledge is old and based on studies that used incomplete surgery as the benchmark for comparison. Few general gynecologist “want” to treat patients with endo, yet they also do not want to “lose their patient.” Whether it is outdated education,

FAST FACTS

1. Endometriosis is a full-body disease. Endometriosis lesions have been found in every single part of the body.

2. Endometriosis is not a menstruation disease, and it has been found in men, fetuses, people with hysterectomies, and postmenopausal persons.

3. Endometriosis has no cure. It requires a multi-modal treatment approach, with the golden standard of care being expert excision surgery.

4. Endometriosis cannot be treated by pregnancy or a hysterectomy.

5. There are currently no drugs that treat or “stop” endometriosis lesions from growing.

ACTIONS TO TAKE

Educate a provider! Endowhat provides free educational kits to school nurses around the country.

Endometriosis Awareness Month happens in March! Wear yellow to support your fellow endometriosis friends!

worry about losing patients, or pride, many gynecologists simply will not admit when endometriosis is beyond their capability of treating.”

In the summer of 2019, the pelvic pain became unbearable. My PCP recommended I see a gastroenterologist. I provided all types of samples and underwent a colonoscopy. Everything came back negative. No gastrointestinal issues.

One particular night, I experienced a very strange symptom. I went to see my gynecologist. He incorrectly diagnosed me with pelvic organ prolapse, a condition where an organ slips from its position and bulges in the vagina; I was told to do Kegels. I was in shock…again. I looked at the same gynecologist who diagnosed me, and said “the word.” “Is this related to my endometriosis?” I asked. “No. I don’t know how you have prolapse, I’ve never seen it in a patient that hasn't given birth. We’ll have to stitch up your uterus once you have a child.” The words just pounded in my head. How could I think about a child, when I was in so much pain?

I was relentless. I researched who could help me with prolapse. Pelvic floor therapy is what popped up. A profession I had never hear of. Pelvic floor therapists focus on the rehabilitation of the pelvic floor. Since I was convinced this was related to my endometriosis, I tried to see if I could find a pelvic floor therapist that understood it. I found one in Nancy’s Nook. Not only did she exclusively treat endometriosis patients, but she had endometriosis herself. She was a godsend, and still relentlessly doing her advocacy work

“Ok” I said. “Let’s do it, the surgery.” I was 21-years-old. I had a diagnosis. The pathology report came back with “that word,” endometriosis.

with the Endometriosis Summit. She co-founded this annual event with Dr. Andrea Vidali, my surgeon, an endometriosis excision specialist.

The first visit changed my life forever. I didn’t have prolapse, what I had was a tense pelvic floor and pelvic floor dysfunction. Something the Kegels was making worse. What I called my “ovary” and “uterus pain” was actually nerve compression. Caused by possible hernias, created from years of tension in my pelvic floor. She explained to me what expert endometriosis excision was. An endometriosis expert is someone who spends all of their time performing endometriosis excision. In the words of Dr. Ken Sinervo from the Center for Endo Care, “very few can do both obstetrics and be an excision surgeon. I operate 4-5 days a week and could not deliver a baby if I tried – too busy.” It is far too complex of a disease to be treated by a regular OB/GYN.

I had my endometriosis excision surgery in December of 2019. Turns out my entire peritoneal sac and rectovaginal area were full of endometriosis lesions and fibrotic tissue. I had a small amount on my left ovary. I cried as my surgeon showed me my surgical photos. It was proof and evidence of my pain. That word had pictures. MY endometriosis When I woke up from surgery, the feeling of endometriosis pain, that razor blade wound, feeling was gone. I could almost feel like something was missing. The pain just wasn’t there.

After the surgery, the nerve pain persisted, and I couldn’t see a pelvic floor therapist because of the lockdown restrictions. I could barely walk five minutes without being in excruciating pain. It wasn’t endometriosis lesion pain but rather “endometriosis fallout” as described by Board-Certified Patient Advocate (BCPA) and Doula Alysia Dagrosa. The persistent “new” pain proved what we feared – I had hernias. I saw an occult hernia specialist who immediately saw three hernias on a CT scan that was reviewed and showed nothing of note by the techs that reviewed it. In November 2020, a month shy of my one-year anniversary of expert excision surgery, I had seven hernias repaired. The hernia pockets were full of fat tissue that had been pulled off my abdomen. Immediately upon waking from surgery, I had better use of my left leg. Within three months, I had a significant decrease in overall pain. Once I started working with a pelvic floor therapist, those fiveminute walks turned into 30-minute walks. Within a year, I would also be working with a personal trainer that specializes in pelvic floor dysfunction. I am powerlifting now. I’m crying as I type this, as it has felt like my body has betrayed me for so many years. It is so empowering to have back the strength that I had lost. To feel powerful and more in control. My bodily strength, I realize, is a marker of health in my family. I think about how I used to hide my pain as my parents must have. I don’t hide it

anymore, but it does feel good to feel as strong as I thought they were as a young woman. The reason I share my story is so that no one else waits an average of seven to eleven years for a diagnosis, and can avoid being butchered by doctors who don’t know enough about the disease.

Nathali is a proud sister from the Gamma Pi Chapter at St. John’s University in Staten Island. She was born and bred in Brooklyn, N.Y., and resides there to this day. Theta Phi Alpha was so important to this first-generation American that is a part of the Central American diaspora. The Fraternity gave her the skills she still uses today to navigate her educational and professional life. She currently works in hedge fund compliance at Brevan Howard. She creates informational endometriosis content in English and Spanish on her Instagram page @endocipota, endo is short for endometriosis and cipota is a colloquial term for girl in El Salvador and Honduras, where her parents are from. When she isn’t volunteering for Theta Phi Alpha or advocating for endometriosis patients, she’s working on her journey to compete in her first powerlifting competition. Follow

1 https://extrapelvicnotrare.org/the-abcs-of-epd-extrapelvic-disease-for-endometriosis/

2 Redwine, D. B. "Mülleriosis: the single best-fit model of the origin of endometriosis." Journal of reproductive medicine 33.11 (1988): 915-920.

3 Rei, Christina, Thomas Williams, and Michael Feloney. "Endometriosis in a man as a rare source of abdominal pain: a case report and review of the literature." Case Reports in Obstetrics and Gynecology 2018 (2018).

4 Redwine, David B. "Conservative laparoscopic excision of endometriosis by sharp dissection: life table analysis of reoperation and persistent or recurrent disease." Fertility and Sterility 56.4 (1991): 628-634.

Medal

2024 SIENA MEDAL NOMINATIONS

The Board of Trustees announced our search for nominations for Theta Phi Alpha’s next Siena Medalist.

The medal will be awarded at National Convention in Baltimore in 2024!

Please take some time and research an amazing woman who has done something worthy of this honor. Nominees should

be women of distinction in their profession, advocates for social service, or personal role models.

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2024 Siena Medalist through July 1, 2023. For more information on the Siena Medal process, or to nominate a deserving woman, please visit the Siena Medal website.

The Siena Medal committee will be researching and discussing the nominated Siena Medal applicants. Thank you, in advance, to those members who nominate a deserving woman.

Please direct any questions to the Siena Medalist Trustee, Cathy Billoni, via email.

A. 18" Snake Chain, #SNAKE

B. Permanent Badge Charm*, #3199

C. Crown Pearl Badge, #0102

D. Crown Pearl Double Letter Guard, #J0600

E. Association Treasurer Dangle, #47

F. Big Sis Dangle, #37

G. Sisterhood Chair Dangle, #61

H. Social Chair Dangle, #13

I. Centennial Badge, #0103

J. Scholarship Pearl Dangle, #41

K. One World, One Heart Dangle, #1W1H

L. Etched Single Letter Guard, #J0700

M. Plain Single Letter Guard, #J0100

N. Crown Pearl Single Letter Guard, #J0500

(Valid

A CHAPTER GUARD indicates your collegiate chapter. They are available in single or double letter and three styles. DANGLES are used for special recognition – for leadership, for academic success, activities, and to show your ΘΦΑ story – and can be purchased as a gift for yourself or for someone else. Dangles hang from the chain that connects your badge and chapter guard. Visit HJGreek.com to view the entire collection of badges, guards and dangles.

*Badge not included. Wear your badge as a permanent pendant as shown or choose the pin-on option.

**Standard shipping.

L.

BADGE GUARD DANGLES

E. F. G. H.

I.

J. K.

D.

C.

B.*

A.

Founders’ Day is a time to reflect upon where Theta Phi Alpha started at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor in 1912, but also a time to appreciate the journey that has brought us to 2023 and how to navigate the path forward. Let’s explore the path of Theta Phi Alpha’s use of technology and how we can use it to strengthen the bonds of sisterhood and set the direction for the future.

In the era of the golden jubilee during the early 1960s –Theta Phi Alpha first adopted technology to organize its membership records with a database. The database has expanded beyond basic contact information to include initiation records, education and training records, volunteer service, and awards history. Now, members may not only access and update their own records directly through the membership portal at my.thetaphialpha.org, but also find their friends through the My Sisters tab. Update your contact information or connect with a friend today. The Fraternity and Foundation partner to provide these resources.

During the 1980s, educational materials began to migrate from a version prepared on a typewriter to a more readily updated version on a personal computer. At the time, most of the items were called manuals and topics were expanded beyond recruitment, new member education, and academic excellence to include chapter operations, finances, and risk management.

The advent of home use of the internet further connected our members. The Grand Council first connected on email during the 1990s, the decade which also saw the launch of the first Theta Phi Alpha website. Intranets made it possible to begin storing materials for easy access as members gained more access to this technology.

Now, with access to social media and Zoom, members are able to connect and even “see” one another using technology. Where will Theta Phi Alpha head from here? The future of Theta Phi Alpha will utilize technology as an educational resource for all members. At Officer Leadership Training (OLT) in July, Theta Phi Alpha will launch Chapter Builder by Phired Up. This program, funded 70% by Theta Phi Alpha Foundation, will provide tools and resources for chapters in

recruitment of members with the intention of increased engagement, efficiency, and membership retention. With support of generous members, we are excited to invest in this resource for Theta Phi Alpha.

The strategic goals of Theta Phi Alpha include expansion of the educational tools to include an enhanced Membership Experience. These resources will be available not only for skills needed by chapter leaders, but also to serve members individually. Planning for this new experience is well underway. It will include a focus on providing education on topics that support competencies, which are skills that members use in their daily lives, coursework, and careers.

What role will technology play in this future? Theta Phi Alpha will invest in a Learning Management System (LMS) that will integrate the process of educational module development, teaching the sessions, updating members’ educational records, and evaluating the effectiveness of these modules. You may already use a LMS at work without even realizing it, as your employer may have one to track its educational program. The Membership Experience and LMS is a giant step for Theta Phi Alpha that will strengthen our members.

Support of the strategic aims of Theta Phi Alpha to provide increased resources to all members will become a focus of Theta Phi Alpha Foundation’s efforts. We are able to financially support general educational and leadership resources. The Ever Loyal Commitment of Theta Phi Alpha’s members can help to transform Theta Phi Alpha and Set The Direction for its continued success.

How can you help? Consider an increased contribution, such as through the Sustaining Sister option. We also can use assistance in building excitement among our fellow Theta Phi Alphas, as perhaps they don’t pay as much attention as you or have been awaiting the advent of something big and new. If you are interested in more frequent updates as we move through this process, let us know by filling out the form for Set the Direction updates.

Zeta Alumna Blazes the Appalachian Trail

Kelsey Foster Gerig, Z, is hiking the Appalachian Trail! During her time as a Leadership Consultant in 2018-2019, Kelsey read Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson, which soon sparked her interest in the Appalachian Trail. She continued to read more while on her LC travels and in March of 2020, started hiking the trail just two weeks before the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Kelsey was about a month into her hike when she returned home to Indiana due to the pandemic. She decided to persevere with her dream and restart this journey, starting on March 9th. She is scheduled to complete the trail in mid-August.

The Appalachian trail is roughly 2,190+ miles and runs through 14 states. On average, it takes five to seven months to complete the trail. Follow her journey on Facebook and Instagram! You can also read her blog about this experience on The Trek.

Best wishes, Kelsey! We look forward to a future article about your experiences!

Compass Connections

Recently, alumnae participated in a wine tasting event with the Fraternity’s wine brand, True North Napa Valley, and led by Adam Henderson, a partner at Fairwinds Estate Winery. Alumnae had a great time during the event! Stay tuned for more Compass Connections events by following the Fraternity on social media or update your email address in the membership portal.

NEW LOOKS You Will Love

New products have been launching every month! Shop our classic staples and your favorite trending designs.

PENGUINSHOPPE.COM

Dear Sister,

Theta Phi Alpha is proud to celebrate National Volunteer Week to honor you, and the entire team of volunteers, who contribute your valuable resources for the good of the Fraternity. We truly appreciate all you do for Theta Phi Alpha and your efforts make amazing impacts across all our programs.

It is because of our volunteers, like you, that Theta Phi Alpha continues to find ways to improve as a sisterhood that ensures that we are supporting our members, living our values, and fulfilling our mission. We are incredibly grateful for each member who has taken time, and expended emotional energy to have difficult conversations with us to ensure that all sisters are welcomed and heard. Our combined commitment to defining the membership experience through all stages and ensuring that we achieve financial sustainability will ensure that we remain relevant for years to come.

As 2023 progresses, we appreciate the dedication of our volunteers and who continue to share their wisdom, knowledge, and sisterhood with our members.

We are so proud to volunteer alongside you for Theta Phi Alpha! Thank you again for contributing your time, talents, and knowledge.

Yours in the bonds of sisterhood,

The Grand Council 2022-2024

Kristin H., Jessica, Ainsley, Kristin R., Candice, Lisa, and Katie

Guard of Honor Wearers and National Officers present at National Convention 2022.

OUR NATIONAL PRESIDENT TRAVELS THE USA!

Kristin Henkenius, AP, National President, has been busy traveling and meeting new sisters! Here is a sampling of Kristin’s travels as NP28!

1, 2, & 3 – Angela Pedi Seegal, AE, and Kristin with sisters from the Alpha Epsilon Chapter in Queens, New York. 3 - Kristin, Lopita Das, GH, and Angela.

4 & 5 – 2022-2024 Grand Council at the National Office: 27025 Knickbocker Road!

6 & 7 – Celebrating Kappa Chapter’s Centennial with Karen Rubican, AΣ, and Kappa Chapter alumnae!

9 & 10 – Enjoying dinner with the Alpha Mu Chapter and happy hour with the Greater Cincinnati Alumnae Association (and some Board of Trustees members!) when the BOT met in Cincinnati.

11 – Kristin with Pat Seashore, AN, (center), and Jenni Stadtmiller, AM, (third from left), with the Delta Xi Chapter.

13 – Sisters from the Chi Chapter, along with the Lincoln Area and Northeastern Nebraska Alumnae Associations, gathered for a meet and greet with the National President!

8 – Kristin at the NPC Annual Meeting with Katie Hartmann, GI, Executive Director, and Brianna Parker, Z, Coordinator of Growth and Outreach.

12 – Epsilon Chapter sisters with Kristin, Pat, and Jenni at the Epsilon Chapter house.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR NEW INDUCTEES!

sapphire circle

Celebrating 50 Initiated Years of Sisterhood!

Karen Burns, E

Lynne Busam, E

Dee Conway Shafer, E

Ann Ibanez Erhart, E

Kathy K. Lyons, E

Cheryl Robards Korn, E

Sally Timmel Gammons, E

Ann Trame Duffey, E

Cindy Wenstrup Hazelwood, E

Melanie Bella Haudenshield, K

Angela Greco Honchar, K

Janet Kobak Jakovac, K

Diane E. Carano, Σ

Jan Fee Bobbitt, Σ

Florence Fiocca Fiehn, Σ

Joanne Gerzina Breiding, Σ

Pamela Housel Modugno, Σ

Virginia Kult Hulsey, Σ

Mary Ann Mellody Lambert, Σ

Anne Stallings Robitaille, Σ

Jeannie Tirlea Rook, Σ

Kathy Tokes Stoops, Σ

Diane Young Stadelman, Σ

Laureen Ambrose Bauml, U

Susan Bajer Staszewski, U

Linda Bal, U

Kathryn Borkalow Piper, U

Jeanne Cecchin Fec, U

Kathleen Henning Heffron, U

Mary Kane McAuslan, U

Ann Martinez Kamykowski, U

Celeste Sieracki Gwiazdzinski, U

Louise Zahorak Erbrederis, U

Carol Potter Ivers, C

Dutrey Connick, AB

Mary Ann Farnsworth Faulkner, AB

Nancy Morrissy Van Grinsven, AB

Mary Zulfer Bukiet, AB

Carol Gliebe, AE

Clara Natale Caprio, AE

Lucille Andrews Berley, AE

Mary Ann Sanders Burns, AE

Clare M. Byrne, AE

Susan A. Daynowski, AE

Susan Keane Haggerty, AE

Terry Primosch Kinch, AE

Adrianne V. Bonk, AG

Sister Deborah A. Campbell, AG

Kathleen Devens Zurkowski, AG

Lynn Divito Berger, AG

Alexandra Kijak Wolfe, AG

Maritherese Makowski Kamer, AG

Patricia Moriarity Murray, AG

Charmaine Salakar Conklin, AG

Elizabeth Thompson Ahmann, AG

Beverly Thompson Hunziker, AG

Lorena M. Condes, AI

Danne Demkovich Persic, AI

Judith L. Garzinski, AI

Regina Grabowski Wusik, AI

Jean McCormick-Dudley, AI

Sophie Profilovich Gaylor, AI

Joan Sarnecki Ricciardi, AI

Mary Stefanski Kopec, AI

Carol Wagner Schellenberg, AI

Mary V. Zepeda, AI

Carol Brandenburg Volz, AM

Beth Carlage Ping, AM

Jayne Curtis Cruse, AM

Gloria Keller Young, AM

Laurel Allardyce Linkert, AN

Bonna Bailey Patrick, AN

Nancy Cassell Hannon, AN

Rita Dine Miller, AN

Gayle M. Earley, AN

Cheryl Halle Ewbank, AN

Stephanie Hooks Adam, AN

Jeanne Kirk Elliott, AN

Terry L. McCain, AN

Jan M. Meinhold, AN

Barb Messick Ehrbar, AN

Martha Ott Ciapetta, AN

September Petrach Fogle, AN

Betty Rebholz Ronan, AN

Judy Schmiesing Godwin, AN

Sheila Smith Evans, AN

Sue Sutherland Iacobucci, AN

Jackie Thomas Litchfield, AN

Donna Usko Moore, AN

diamond circle

Celebrating 75 Initiated Years of Sisterhood!

Betty Dahlman Vonderbrink, E

Mary Fussner Hafenbritle, E

Rita Grusenmeyer Gibbemeyer, E

Jacqueline Poirot Powell, E

Nancy Vaughn, H

Patricia Devlin Gleason, K

Dorothy Keane Nelson, L

Patricia Lapp Peltzer, L

Carol Bruha Kachel, N

Marjorie Perrenaud Bowman, N

Virginia Francis McLean, R

Florence Teresinski Ownes, R

Jeanne Kibler Weiss, Σ

Joanne Rett St. Aubens, Σ

Barbara Baszynski, T

Bette Bodi Michael, T

Beatrice Derenne Scheel, T

Marilyn Schroeder Chesner, T

Mary Schubert Walt, T

Marlys Chiasson Merna, Y

North - National Service

Samantha Torres, AE & Jessica Knerr, AΨ

South - Special Achievement

Jessie McGuire, ΓH & Caeley Looney, AT

East - Emerging Younger Alumna

Drew Melendez, BΞ

West - Wise,Experienced Alumna

Debra

Ashby,

ΓZ

Samantha is recognized for national service by doing an incredible job of holding members accountable while supporting them endlessly.

Jessica is recognized for national service by striving to make our programs modern, relevant, and inclusive for all.

Jessie is recognized for special achievement and has been named Managing Partner of ThoughtMatter, spurring meaningful change.

Caeley is recognized for special achievement by creating the nonprofit Reinvented, which inspires interest in STEM for young women worldwide.

Drew is recognized for emerging leadership for supporting chapters with a contagious positive attitude.

Debra is recognized for wealth of wisdom by ensuring our teams and chapters are knowledgeable and empowers them to find creative solutions.

SISTERS TO THE RESCUE!

WhenNathali Zamora, GP, lost her grandmother’s ankle bracelet down a catch basin in Brooklyn, N.Y., she was afraid it was gone forever. Nathali reached out via the Theta Phi Alpha Sister Circle Facebook group and asked if anyone had a connection to Con Edison (energy company) in New York City. With the help of some tags and comments on the Facebook post, Kayla Malley, GC , who happens to be an Engineering Supervisor at Con Ed, reached out to Nathali.

Kayla was able to work her magic and get Nathali’s bracelet back to her with the help of some wonderful Con Ed employees! As Nathali said in her Facebook post, “The power of sisterhood is unmatched!”

New Alumnae Organization Resources!

Theta Phi Alpha is excited to bring new resources to our alumnae associations, especially featuring a new Alumnae Organization Communication and Engagement Guide. Templates for social media, emails, newsletters, etc., can be found on the Alumnae Organization Resources page of the website, located here.

The recording for the latest alumnae association/club townhall can also be found on the page linked above. It’s a great resource and update for our associations and club!

chapter news briefs

Check out what some of our chapters have been up to since last spring!

KAPPA – UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH

welcomed 44 new members. The chapter held a bouquet making event and raised over $350 for the Women’s Center and Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh! Sisters enjoyed many sisterhood events throughout the year as well.

CHI – CREIGHTON UNIVERSITY participated in Fraternity and Sorority Life’s lip sync and dance contest and placed first! The chapter’s theme was Minions

ALPHA PSI – UNIVERSITY OF DAYTON initiated six new members and sponsored a successful mom’s weekend, including a farmers market trip and brunch.

BETA DELTA –MUSKINGUM UNIVERSITY participated in Greek Week volleyball.

BETA NU – FLORIDA ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY welcomed 65 new sisters and sponsored their annual fundraiser for the Lisa Boccard Breast Cancer Fund, which raised $18,000!

ALPHA XI – CLEVELAND STATE UNIVERSITY participated in recruitment and gained eight new members, including a legacy!

ALPHA UPSILON – INDIANA UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA

had a successful philanthropy week during the fall 2022 semester, including a Pie-a-Theta Phi event. Sisters volunteered at Indiana’s It’s a Wonderful Life Festival tree lighting event in November by handing out flyers, helping children make s’mores, and cleaning the streets after the event had finished.

BETA XI – WILLIAM PATERSON UNIVERSITY gained six new members this semester through recruitment. The chapter sponsored a Theta Phi Guy philanthropy event, which raised over $200 for the Theta Phi Alpha Foundation, as well as participated in two community service events.

BETA PSI –MERRIMACK COLLEGE hosted a private shopping event for the chapter at Aerie at Lynnfield Marketplace.

GAMMA ALPHA – PENN STATE, THE BEHREND COLLEGE had a very successful recruitment and doubled their chapter size!

GAMMA DELTA –ROWAN UNIVERSITY welcomed new members and participated in Relay for Life.

GAMMA EPSILON – SHAWNEE STATE UNIVERSITY hosted a “Bump in the Night” Halloween theme volleyball philanthropy event to raise money for the local community center. The event raised over $350.

GAMMA ZETA – TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-KINGSVILLE attended the TAMUK Leadership Series, crafted and exchanged Valentine’s Day cards, and initiated the Alpha Omicron new member class. The chapter also held a potluck dinner with LC Kitty and sponsored two philanthropy events, Paint-a-Theta Phi, which raised over $400 for Multiple Sclerosis Awareness, and Pie-a-Theta Phi, which raised money for the American Heart Association.

GAMMA LAMBDA – SUFFOLK UNIVERSITY welcomed 15 new members. Sisters participated in Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk, Out of the Darkness Community Walk for suicide prevention with the Boston Area Alumnae Association, Light The Night, and Relay for Life. They also made cards of encouragement for children at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, volunteered at the Ronald McDonald House, and participated in a trash cleanup at the Charles River Esplanade. Sisters enjoyed a sisterhood retreat and a visit from LC Kitty and loved connecting with each other.

GAMMA MU – CLARKSON UNIVERSITY welcomed three new members. The chapter sponsored two DEIA events and a Theta Phi-ve K to raise money for the Mary King Dyson Memorial Scholarship.

GAMMA CHI – STEVENS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY was the top fundraising team for Neon Nights, a philanthropy event which supports the Jed Foundation. Jenna Giesecke, GC, was the chairman for the entire Neon Nights event.

GAMMA OMEGA – TRINE UNIVERSITY

hosted their annual Big Man on Campus event to raise money for the Vera Bradley Breast Cancer Research Foundation, with the theme Let’s Tackle Breast Cancer. This year’s event raised over $25,000, breaking last year’s record of $24,347.18.

DELTA EPSILON – RHODE ISLAND COLLEGE

participated in the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation walk and raised $1,650 towards their team. The chapter has been busy volunteering with the MAE Organization for the Homeless in Cranston, R.I., making over 100 bagged lunches, sorting food and clothing donations, preparing raffle baskets for fundraisers for the center, and volunteering at the annual fundraising gala. During fall recruitment, the chapter made personal care toiletry packages with potential new members, which were donated to the MAE Organization.

held a Galentine’s Day event and a winter wonderland formal with the Rise Center for Success.

DELTA GAMMA –LYNN UNIVERSITY held elections and had a successful recruitment, doubling the size of the chapter.

DELTA ETA – SALEM STATE UNIVERSITY

DELTA DELTA – ASHLAND UNIVERSITY

hosted their annual Sapphire Ball philanthropy event for Camp Friendship, as well as a Theta Phi-to Booth fundraiser, where students could come to the photo booth and take pictures with St. Patrick’s Day props. Both events raised $7,500 for Camp Friendship.

welcomed 12 new members. The chapter fundraised over $500 for the Glenmary Home Missioners and Lifebridge, a local homeless shelter. They also collected cans and toiletries for Lifebridge and My Brother’s Table. The chapter held two Pie-a-Theta Phi events and raised a total of $1,900!

DELTA ALPHA – STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORKPLATTSBURGH

DELTA XI – MOUNT ST. JOSEPH UNIVERSITY

volunteered at Snows Lakeside Tavern for their annual Down Syndrome Awareness benefit. Sisters participated by selling raffle tickets and split-the-pot to patrons at the event.

alumnae association news briefs

AKRON AREA

held the popular holiday brunch and white elephant gift exchange at the Sheraton Suites in Cuyahoga Falls, overlooking the river. Over 20 sisters came, representing four chapters, including a group of collegians from Delta Delta Chapter. The association is preparing to host their first Bonco event since 2019! The proceeds from the two events will fund two scholarships at St. Vincent/St. Mary High School in memory of sisters. Sisters also gathered for the annual memorial mass in honor of our Eternal Chapter sisters. Akron Area’s monthly breakfasts have continued, with the most recent one featuring an Irish tenor singer.

BOSTON AREA

kicked off the fall season with the Salem Food Truck Festival and had some yummy treats. In October, the association teamed up with the Gamma Lambda Chapter and participated in the Out of the Darkness Community Walk for suicide prevention in Boston. The association also held a menstrual product drive for Lifebridge, a homeless shelter in Salem, for Theta Phi Day of Service. More than 40 boxes of menstrual products were donated!

DELTA OMICRON – SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY participated in their first in-person recruitment season this past fall and welcomed five new members. Sisters enjoyed bonding with events like movie night, apple picking, and “Sistersgiving.” The chapter held a backpack drive for a local philanthropy, New Horizons, and gathered supplies needed for the homeless.

CHICAGO AREA

enjoyed Founders’ Day at a local restaurant and held a joint Initiation ceremony with Delta Nu Chapter for the association’s first initiate in November. The association sponsored their annual Stocking Stuffer event and donated 125 stockings to Catholic Charities for children ages 8-12. Sisters held a Galentine’s Day celebration with their new team geared towards younger alumnae.

GREATER CINCINNATI

enjoyed Homecoming at the University of Cincinnati with many alumnae gathering for a room dedication and a cookout by the Epsilon Chapter! The association also gathered for their annual holiday happy hour in December at Taft Ale House in downtown. Sisters enjoyed a meet and mingle with the Board of Trustees in February! The association has been able to provide membership scholarships this academic year and look forward to continuing this new endeavor in the future.

GREATER CLEVELAND

held Founders’ Day with the Alpha Xi Chapter at Stancato's Italian Restaurant and cohosted the Cleveland Alumnae Panhellenic Association spring scholarship luncheon. Sisters also enjoyed a summer picnic at the home of Linda Barath, AX, and collected school supplies for a local school. In October, the association held their semi-annual general meeting with officer elections and finished the year with a holiday get together at Top Golf where they collected supplies for a local pet shelter.

FLINT AREA

held a Galentine’s Day event for all local alumnae. The association attended Founders' Day with the Beta Lambda Chapter and celebrated Alpha Nu Chapter's 50th Anniversary. Several members of Alpha Nu traveled to Michigan to attend the festivities. Five Alpha Nu alumnae were inducted into Sapphire Circle at the event.

LINCOLN AREA/NORTHEASTERN NEBRASKA

co-hosted a meet and greet together for Kristin Henkenius, AP, National President, in Omaha.

NEW ORLEANS AREA

welcomed five new members and celebrated sisters’ accomplishments. Hosted a health educational session presented by LeeAnn Prisk, DNP, BE. The association assisted Alpha Beta Chapter with fall recruitment and supported the Kappa Chapter’s Centennial fundraiser. Sisters enjoyed sisterhood time celebrating birthdays, Christmas, and hosting out-of-town sisters.

NORTHERN KENTUCKY

held their biennial election meeting and enjoyed sisterhood time with few small group hangouts.

NORTHERN NEW JERSEY

enjoyed a virtual Founders’ Day and a fall election meeting. The association also sponsored a “Socktober” philanthropy event in October for the Hoboken Homeless Shelter, where they published an Amazon wish list and asked sisters, family, and friends to donate socks and other toiletry items. Over 300 pairs of socks, hats, and gloves were donated to the shelter. The association also initiated an alumna initiate, April Smith DeMeester, last April with the Beta Xi Chapter. April was a former pledge sister (new member) of Beta Xi Chapter back in 1990s!

PITTSBURGH

gathered in December for a meet and greet, where attendees donated food and monetary donations for the Canonsburg Food Bank. At the holiday gathering, alumnae had the opportunity to meet women who expressed interest in alumnae initiation. The association has three current women preparing to become alumnae initiates –Meredith Rubican, Sarah Rubican, and Jennifer Kirk! Most recently, members participated in a donation drive for the St. Vincent de Paul Society.

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA is excited for a new alumna initiate!

*Chapter/association updates are as of March 1, 2023.

Between Sisters

BETWEEN

Sisters

SUBMIT YOUR BETWEEN SISTERS PHOTOS!

Do you have a special birth or marriage photo?

Or a photo of a sister who has entered the Eternal Chapter? Maybe your bridesmaids were all Theta Phis? Submit your photos to compass@thetaphialpha.org or attach it to your Between Sisters report on the website. We look forward to featuring more photos in future issues!

BIRTHS

Taylor Kenney Schaaf, E, daughter

Tess Tschofen, E, daughter

Kate Glow Schram, C, daughter

Paige Gaver McCoy, AP, son

Mandy Baker Hartdegen, BE, son

Taylor Fonseca Borgstede, BE, daughter

Stefanie Hreha Hunter, GK, daughter

Stephanie Notaro Peppe, GR, daughter

Milaglos Smith, DA, daughter

MARRIAGES

Ashley Kippler, E to Nolan O'Brien

Rachel Wurm, E, to Stefanie Keenan

Jackie Cubbedge, BB, to Brian Bennet

Kaylin Guillory, BE, to Zachery Makowsky

Jenny Boone, Flint Area, to Ian Cross

ETERNAL CHAPTER

Catherine Rita Teti Peronace, H

Marie Lamotta Ogur, L

Helen Meagher Watson, L

Sarah "Sally" O'Byrne Kelley, L

Roberta Wagner Hennessey, L

Eleanor (Bee) Davidsaver, N

Barbara Plageman Henterly, Σ

Cheryl Starkey Fockler, Σ

Talia Frye, AM

Bernadette Calabro, AU

Kelley Siler, AW

Tori Finnazi, BL

Katherine Anderson Nix, BF

Nicole Margiloff, GD

SYMPATHY

Annette Kolb Lord, Σ, husband

Amy Hussey, AN, mother

Lara Pearson, AW, mother

Lauren Southwick Schwartzer, BB, father

Michelle Coppola, BG, brother

Renee Gravois, BE, mother

Above: Beta Beta Chapter Alumnae who pledged together in 2004 – Holly Geronimo, Heidi Schmid Novik, Yekaterina Bardash, Jackie Cubbedge, Lauren Svec Gallo, Meghan McPherson, Carley Garofalo Whitman, and Lauren Southwick Schwartzer.

C MPASS SIGHTINGS

A compass from the Smithville Inn in Smithville, N.J.