The Triangle • Fall 2020

TRIANGLE

fall 2020

The Triangle | Fall 2020

Volume 20, Number 2 Editor Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications Design/Editing Member Experience Editor Features Editor Copy Editor

Mallory Borino, Eta Omicron Jesi Wilcox Shelle Design, Inc. Jennifer Call, Epsilon Xi

from the

president

“She stood in the storm, and when

Devyn Vinson, Zeta Alpha A ileen Toomey, Delta Chi Michelle Dahlstrom, Beta Epsilon

Sigma Sigma Sigma National Headquarters 225 North Muhlenberg St. Woodstock, VA 22664-1424 p 540.459.4212 // f 540.459.2361 sigma@trisigma.org // www.trisigma.org

Here we are… the autumn leaves are turning, and it’s a reminder that the changing seasons are not

only about the weather; life is about change as well. Sometimes we seek change purposefully.

Sometimes change comes knocking at our door

Executive Council 2019-2022 National President

when we least expect it, and sometimes we do not have a choice in the matter – change occurs

Natalie Moore Averette, Gamma Beta National Treasurer Ann DeCecco Rutkowski, Epsilon Delta National Vice President Jennifer Holtsclaw Avenel, Delta Pi National Vice President Heather Cruz, Zeta Psi National Vice President Kara Miller McCarty, Epsilon Delta National Vice President Joyce Newcom O’Daniel, Alpha Chi Ex-Officio Linda Manley-Kuitu, Epsilon Rho

discussions with inter/national presidents of the other NPC groups about concerns

Changes of names, addresses, and death notices should be sent to National Headquarters.

out the best in us...if we don’t let it get the better of us. So, we’ve taken things

Postmaster: Please send notices of undeliverable copies on Form 3579 to Sigma Sigma Sigma, 225 North Muhlenberg Street, Woodstock, VA 22664-1424.

The Triangle of Sigma Sigma Sigma is published yearly by Sigma Sigma Sigma, 225 North Muhlenberg Street, Woodstock, VA 22664-1424.

Payment of membership dues includes $2 toward the cost of The Triangle subscription. Articles are invited for publication in this magazine. Manuscripts should be submitted to the Editor for consideration. Acceptances are on a contributing basis only and are subject to editorial review. All copies and photos become the property of Sigma Sigma Sigma.

Member of National Panhellenic Conference and Fraternity Communications Association. ©2020 Sigma Sigma Sigma

whether we like it or not.

Just as we were beginning to see signs of

Spring here in Virginia, everything suddenly changed. I never imagined that I would be having

for the survival of sororities and how to ensure that interfraternal organizations would

weather the drastic trials and tribulations brought on by COVID-19. Nor can I recall the last time I spent so many days at home instead of traveling fairly frequently for Sigma business.

Learning to adapt to change is part of life, though, and could very well bring

in stride and have made modifications to the regular order of operations. Strength

and resiliency have guided us thus far while navigating this storm. We’ve not been blown away, nor has “the wind” blown in our favor, so we’ve adjusted our sails accordingly.

The way we do things looks a bit different these days. We’ve had to be creative

and reimagine the execution of our Tri Sigma experiences. Technology has helped us stay connected and has even brought us unexpected joy. When in-person Founders

Day celebrations had to be canceled, we instead gathered virtually with members

across the country. It allowed us to reconnect with chapter sisters, friends, and fellow volunteers as we’ve never really done before. Collegiate and alumnae chapters have

found new ways to stay connected with each other without even leaving home.

Outside of Tri Sigma, we’ve delighted in artists giving free performances from their

homes, enjoyed virtual cooking classes hosted by celebrity chefs, exercised with online fitness instructors in our very own living rooms, and participated in weekly Instagram dance lessons led by the world-famous Radio City Rockettes.

Sigma Sigma Sigma National Sorority @sigmasigmasigmahq @trisigma

2 the TRIANGLE | fall 2020

the wind did not blow her way, she adjusted her sails.” ­- Elizabeth Edwards - American Attorney, Author

Although many efforts have been made to adapt to the

dire circumstances, the challenges during the pandemic have been disruptive. Recruitment events, chapter meetings, and

ritual ceremonies look very different now. Crowded spaces on

campuses have given way to Google chat rooms and Zoom gatherings. We continue to find means to make our traditional

activities successful and meaningful while maintaining a safe

environment. For health and budgetary reasons, all in-person training,

meetings, and programming events have been canceled, and travel for sorority business has been significantly reduced.

Although this is not a Convention year for Tri Sigma, many groups

had to make the difficult decision to cancel their conventions to

comply with CDC regulations and government-imposed mandates.

On a personal level, the challenges have been felt as well.

Many have experienced the demands of suddenly becoming

home-school teachers as well as 24/7 parents, spending too

much time at home, pinching pennies to make ends meet, and worrying about the health of family and friends. I hope that you’ve been able to lean on your sisters a bit as we all adjust

to the new realities. Maybe you’ve been able to share a cup of

foundation of sorority life, and we are blessed to have a strong foundation on which to stand in Tri Sigma as we make our way through these times of change and uncertainty.

During difficult times, my grandmother often said, “this too

shall pass.” Historical moments such as these have tremendously

impacted us and will forever be remembered. I believe that when enough years have passed, and we are able to reflect on these

extraordinary times fully, we will see that the challenges we currently face have made us stronger and wiser.

I hope that Tri Sigma continues to be a source of light and

comfort in your life. Make each day meaningful and seek to

find daily doses of good thoughts and sunshine. May you have emotional fortitude, endurance, and resiliency to sustain you during the coming days as we continue to weather the storm.

Remember to “adjust your sails” and patiently wait for the

disturbances to settle. Be well and forge ahead as we move on to a better tomorrow.

Sigma hugs –

coffee in the morning or a glass of wine in the evening with your

sisters via Facetime. The term “social distancing” has become a

way of life, but I prefer to think of it as socializing with extra space.

Moving forward, we will continue to embrace change and

remain focused on offering an enriching member experience

while shaping the future of Tri Sigma. As always, we rely on our

Natalie Moore Averette, Gamma Beta National President

core values. They provide support and reassurance, especially during times of uncertainty - wisdom to guide us through; power to tackle the difficult things that must be done; faith that better

times are on the horizon and that we are triumphant even in seemingly tempestuous times; hope that we’ll become stronger

as individuals and as a sisterhood, and love, is our greatest gift … and love for Tri Sigma continues to unite us. Friendship is the

the TRIANGLE | fall 2020 3

4 the TRIANGLE | fall 2020

contents

10 features:

departments:

6 Promoting Inclusiveness

6 Empowered Women

8 The Power of Listening

16 Leadership

10 Working With Kids

20 Member News

14 Scholarship Ring Recipients

30 Foundation

16 Executive Director Spotlight

38 Archives

18 Virtual Recruitment

39 Omega Listing

28 Tri Sigmas Get Creative During Quarantine

the TRIANGLE | fall 2020 5

empowered women

How do YOU promote inclusiveness in your daily

lives?

CAMMIE WOLFE

Promoting other people’s content, especially when it’s a topic that I do not have personal experience with or much knowledge of, is one of the main things that I do. Especially on apps like TikTok, where the more engagement it gets, the more promotion it gets as well, and people are able to see who otherwise would not have been able to. Going hand in hand with that is following a variety of creators and people on social media to be informed by a greater variety of perspectives.

LAUREN SPIER

I promote inclusivity and diversity by making sure all stories are heard, not just the victors’ stories. As an interpretive Park Ranger with the National Park Service, I want to educate myself and those around me by sharing the stories that are often forgotten or ignored. No story has just one side,

EMMY SMITH

I promote inclusiveness through open and honest conversations.

I create space for my team to be themselves. I challenge family members to learn and grow and be more accepting.

and I make it my goal to present as many perspectives as possible. I also make sure to actively listen to those who are more knowledgeable than me to present their stories with as much grace and accuracy as I can. I also refuse to shy away from hard questions about difficult topics in United States history because those stories deserve to be told, and I want to help educate as many people I can. Knowledge promotes understanding and acceptance, and I hope to keep learning to grow and share with visitors from every walk of life.

6 the TRIANGLE | fall 2020

STACY ROWAN

I promote inclusiveness by having honest conversations with

my students and challenging them to see further than their own experiences. I promote and hold educational opportunities so that my students can learn how to be better themselves and make their chapters better. I speak openly and honestly about my views on inclusion and diversity to create a place where everyone feels welcome.

TIFFANY MACKENZIE

I practice inclusivity by being an

SIERRA ASHLEE LYKINS

active listener, leading by example,

I practice inclusiveness by ensuring that

and sharing content we can learn

my LGBTQIA+ coworkers, (and other

and grow from. Although I am

coworkers, that fit into minorities) voices are

only one voice, I have hundreds of followers on other social media that see my content. By educating myself, I can share my knowledge with others. I recently decided to chalk my driveway with different designs and hashtags trending now to reach to my

heard and I amplify them when they are not.

I also continuously educate myself and am open to learning, especially when I make a mistake.

community and show my love and support for my neighbors.

ALICIA BENNETT AMOS

I promote inclusiveness by trying to model it to my daughter. We read diverse books, watch diverse shows/movies, and talk about topics of diversity.

I’m also trying to learn every day about my own biases and

do what I can to correct them.

JO HERRERA

I’m coordinating a book discussion with our Twin Cities Alumnae Chapter of “Time for The Truth: Race in Minnesota” and am excited to talk with other Sigmas about the 16 essays in it all from BIPOC Minnesotans.

the TRIANGLE | fall 2020 7

empowered women

By Caitlyn Westfall, Theta Gamma, assistant director of education and training

The Power of Listening I was not sure how to begin this article. The truth is, I am still not sure. I was asked to write

this article about diversity, equity, and inclusion, specifically speaking to anti-racism. I jumped at the opportunity to do so because these conversations are very important to me. And

somewhere along the way, I felt imposter syndrome. I felt that I should not talk about issues of microaggressions, bias, anti-racism… why? The answer, I feel, is around the stigma of talking about it. Just as we are moving to normalize talking about many things in society, we must also normalize talking about this.

I have privilege. I am a white, cisgender woman who has

family members. Of being mixed and feeling the pain of not being

graduate program for student affairs that had a strong emphasis

a first-generation child of immigrant families, some of whom

attended higher education. I am very fortunate to have attended a on social justice. I was also fortunate to have a cohort of 26

other individuals around me, completing all the same courses

at the same time. For two years, I studied, cried, laughed, broke down, learned, thrived, and achieved my greatest

white enough for some and Black enough for others. Of being

were still working towards citizenship. No one besides the 27 of us (and our professor) will ever understand the immeasurable

power that existed in the classroom that day. In all my life, I have never felt the kind of energy that existed from 27 stories

accomplishment alongside some of the most

being told and listened to with no interruptions,

incredible people I have ever met. Of all the

assumptions, questions, or comments.

things I took from that experience, there is

one thing that continuously stands out: there is no greater power than that of a

assumptions or do not trust what we read.

story. As Tri Sigmas, we know this well.

But will you trust your sisters’ personal

We dedicated the 2019 Convention to

experiences who have taken the same vow

the thought! But as the waters of life

of membership as you? As a sister of this

continue to swell and storms seem to be

organization, here is my challenge to us all:

all around us, I believe we have forgotten

do less talking and more listening. We need

the importance of stories.

to listen to our sisters, whom we have hurt and

One assignment in my graduate program

was called “Differing Narratives.” I feel confident to

In today’s society, we no longer listen.

We read quick headlines and either make

harmed. We need to listen when our sisters who

have been marginalized and minoritized speak. We need

say this assignment was one of the most pivotal moments in my

to listen to our Black sisters. Our sisters of color. Our LGBTQIA+

we hold, a story with a powerful connection to it. And then, 27

entire life. We were asked to type up a story of an identity that

of us took these printed stories, put them face down on a table, and grabbed a new one. We were then asked to memorize it

and recite it for the class the next day. That day was raw and

powerful. We were hearing stories about some of the most painful moments of people’s lives… of their experiences coming out to

8 the TRIANGLE | fall 2020

sisters. Our sisters who are not Christian. We need to listen.

The truth of the matter is this: our very organization was

started by eight white women in 1898. In 1968, the first Black student (Nancy “Cookie” Scott) was admitted to Longwood College(1). This means for the first 70 years of our Alpha’s

existence, it was a chapter of only white women. We know the

importance of moving ever forward, but if we do not look back

Leslie (Ducay) Deeb, left, and Caitlyn Westfall, right, at the 2019 Dunham Women of Character Institute. Deeb was a member of the grad school cohort and became an alumnae initiate during the program.

Caitlyn Westfall, alongside members of her grad school cohort.

at our past too, we do a great injustice to ourselves. While our

those of us with privilege is not much. But our sisters who have

While this example is from years ago, the sentiment unfortunately

from trying to explain over and over why the things said around

intention may not have been to be exclusive, inherently, we were. applies today. We have long-standing practices that feed into

racism and microaggressions, such as telling our members to

wear nude colored heels and heat style their hair during special occasions like recruitment or ritual. Has a sister of color ever told us how harmful this is to them? I am sure they have, but

have we listened? And I am not talking about hearing what they

have to say just to help them feel heard… I am talking about that AND truly listening and enacting change. It is no longer enough

to be against racism. It is not enough to post a black square on social media while staying silent the other 364 days of the year.

As a band of sisters, we must stand up and truly be anti-racist

every day. Anti-racism is defined as “including beliefs, actions, movements, and policies adopted or developed to oppose

racism.” That means as sisters, we must be the movement. If we want to move forward, we need to acknowledge where we are

standing. We need to center the voices of those that have been marginalized… and when they speak, we need to listen.

We often talk about a concept in higher education called

“calling in versus calling out.” The idea behind it sounds simple enough but is quite complex. When hearing a problematic comment, instead of calling someone out, you call them

into a conversation. We must create a brave space for this

conversation. Instead of saying “that comment is very insensitive and hurtful,” you take the time to explain why it was insensitive and hurtful. This process calls for emotional labor… which for

(1): https://digitalcommons.longwood.edu/cgi/viewcontent

been hurt repeatedly are tired. They are emotionally exhausted them are hurtful. I am sure it is especially hurtful to our sisters whom we have promised to love and respect to then hear extremely negative comments from their sisters.

When you are challenged to come into a conversation, know

that you may learn something new, and it may be tiring to you,

but that is something we must move toward. We need to become comfortable with the idea of being uncomfortable. There is no

growth in the comfort zone and no comfort in the growth zone.

There is also no way to do DEI work perfectly. We will try, and we will get it wrong somewhere along the way. However, the most

important part is that when we do get it wrong, when we are called in, we must listen. We must put down our defensive walls and

allow ourselves to be taken over by the power of the story being

told to us. As my graduate school professor who helped the 27 of us have that powerful moment said, “We are all unfinished.”

We are never done learning, so be open to learning

something new. I, for one, always welcome the opportunity to

learn something new. I am proud to be part of a membership that prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. I am even more proud to have the opportunity to lead these efforts as a staff

member. I encourage all my sisters to continue speaking up and sharing your stories. Many of us are passionate about this work

and want to continue moving forward on the right side of history.

We are here, and we will listen.

the TRIANGLE | fall 2020 9

empowered women

By Devyn Vinson, Zeta Alpha

Working With Kids: Alum Spotlight

Anne Marie Pinto Wilson

The recent pandemic changed all of our lives. One of the largest groups facing day-to-day schedule upheaval are mothers of young children. Many Tri Sigma

alumnae are now expected to homeschool their children, while also working full-time.

10 the TRIANGLE | fall 2020

Pictured: Anne Marie along with her husband Rick and their two kids Benji and Vivian.

Anne Marie Wilson is one such alumna. Her Tri Sigma story starts

their children’s learning and childcare! Vivian is in Kindergarten

in 1998. Anne Marie was a theater major in need of friends when

Pre-K, and the biggest challenge for him is working through all

at Kent State University, where she joined the Alpha Beta Chapter she went through recruitment. Over her college career, she was able to make Tri Sigma her home.

The alumnae chapter of her Tri Sigma story has been

just as fulfilling as her collegiate experience. After moving to

Washington, D.C., with her husband, Anne Marie utilized her Sigma alumnae network to make friends. A self-proclaimed

“social Sigma,” she wanted to bring more social events into their alumnae chapter. Her ceaseless involvement from 2011-2012 earned her a Volunteer Alumnae Recognition Award.

Anne Marie’s career started in theater and finance. One

of her first positions post-grad was in theater development.

After moving to the Columbus, OH, area, she started a career

in purchasing and is currently working from home for Wendy’s food purchasing team. Beyond her career, she stays involved

by volunteering in her community with Meals on Wheels and the Dave Thomas Foundation.

Anne Marie met her husband in Greek life. Rick is a Delta Chi

brother and lived close to the Tri Sigma house during their time at Kent State University. Rick and Anne Marie have two kids; Vivian

is five and a half, and Benji just turned four, or one, on Leap Day.

and has two meetings a week and some school work. Benji is in the emotions he is suddenly experiencing. Although this adds

stress, Anne Marie focuses on the positives of extra family time and decompresses through yoga and biking.

Beyond the extended family time, one silver lining is the

connections she has made with her Tri Sigma sisters. She is

connecting over Zoom and interacting with her alumnae chapter, as well as her undergraduate chapter. Anne Marie found herself reminiscing over old memorabilia with friends for the first time,

thanks to how connected Zoom has made them. Beyond Zoom, she has been a member of a Facebook Group for Tri Sigma

Moms that has shifted its focus to getting each other through work and learn-from-home. She attended this year’s virtual

Founders Day and felt incredibly connected to Tri Sigma as a whole.

Anne Marie is focused on doing good for her community;

she hired a furloughed community member as a babysitter and is trying her best to remain thoughtful in her communications to her sisters. Anne Marie’s advice is to take time for yourself, focus on the positives, and reach out to sisters for support.

In addition to their careers, Anne Marie and Rick have to juggle

Left: Vivian and Benji playing games in the bath tub. Right: Vivian and Benji roasting marshmallows.

the TRIANGLE | fall 2020 11

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As part of our mission statement, we strive to develop strong womanly character within our members. One of the pillars of character is citizenship.

There is no better example of how to live this pillar than voting.

Head over to WhenWeAllVote.org and take the next step to make your voice heard.

the TRIANGLE | fall 2019 13

empowered women

Scholarship Ring Recipients

2019- 2020

Isabel Jane Albert, Gamma Iota, University of Massachusetts

Sheridan Lillian Duet, Alpha Zeta, Northwestern State University

Camryn Jacquelyn Albrecht, Beta Theta, University of Pittsburgh

Melina Danielle Eaker, Alpha Chi, Murray State University

Katherine Michelle Anderson, Theta Zeta, Case Western Reserve University

Morgan Sara Eby, Mu, Truman State University

Emma Katherine Armstrong, Delta Omicron, Gettysburg College

Monica Ellis, Eta Rho, Armstrong Atlantic State University

Kenna Janell Armstrong, Eta Sigma, Culver-Stockton College

Olivia Anne Fante, Delta Psi, St. Josephs University

Mackenzie Jane Arnold, Alpha Epsilon, Northwest Missouri State University

Jodie Michelle Fox, Beta Beta, Missouri State University

Charlotte Christine Baker, Theta Iota, Auburn University

Kimberly Faith Fuhrman, Eta Beta, Newberry College

Taylor Layne Barber, Eta Sigma, Culver-Stockton College

Lauren Noel Garner, Epsilon Nu, The University of North Carolina

Anne Marie Bartholomew, Epsilon Gamma, Grand Valley State University

at Greensboro

Emma Claire Becker, Zeta Psi, The College of New Jersey

Elaine Kay Gatewood, Theta Delta, Lindenwood University

Alexis Christine Becraft, Epsilon Phi, University of

Adrienne Nikole Gennell, Beta Alpha, Northern Illinois University

North Carolina-Wilmington

Jami Ann Gooch, Chi, Pittsburg State University

Madison Michelle Behnen, Beta Xi, Southeast Missouri State University

Madison Paige Greene, Alpha Beta, Kent State University

Kyla Raelyn Berrey, Eta Sigma, Culver-Stockton College

Samantha Rose Griffin, Gamma Iota, University of Massachusetts

Kelly Elizabeth Blacksher, Theta Iota, Auburn University

Emily Madison Gros, Gamma Pi, Nicholls State University

Lauren Elizabeth Blodgett, Beta Beta, Missouri State University

Meghan Grace Gross, Eta Rho, Armstrong Atlantic State University

Alison Nicole Bloom, Epsilon Rho, Minnesota State University-Mankato

Parker E. Gwaltney, Alpha Zeta, Northwestern State University

Skyler Marie Brasuell, Eta Kappa, Texas Woman’s University

Jessica Catherine Harding, Theta Zeta, Case Western Reserve University

Kyndal Michele Bredehoeft, Mu, Truman State University

Jacquelyn Elizabeth Harn, Eta Rho, Armstrong Atlantic State University

Jazmin Mackenzie Brue, Epsilon Rho, Minnesota State University-Mankato

Kyleigh Mae Harrell, Alpha Iota, Northeastern State University

Camille Mary Brune, Epsilon Omicron, Illinois State University

Lydia Clare Harris, Alpha Omicron, University of Central Arkansas

Madison Claire Burkhalter, Theta Delta, Lindenwood University

Peyton Brooke Harville, Alpha Zeta, Northwestern State University

Taylor Nicole Camidge, Alpha Zeta, Northwestern State University

Courtney Jo Hauck, Beta Beta, Missouri State University

Alyssa Marie Cardillo, Theta Theta, Oakland University

Keersten Ann Heinrich, Theta Delta, Lindenwood University

Emma Rose Cardinale, Lambda, Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Jordan L. Hodge, Epsilon Eta, East Stroudsburg University

Shayna Nicole Cesaro, Zeta Psi, The College of New Jersey

Mercedes Lynn Hodges, Alpha, Longwood University

Maison Olivia Chaffin, Epsilon Sigma, Virginia Commonwealth University

Raegan Nicole Holland, Beta Xi, Southeast Missouri State University

MaKayla Ane Chamberlain, Delta Eta, University of Southern Indiana

Neusha M. Hollingsworth, Beta Theta, University of Pittsburgh

Alexandra Virginia Chirpich, Eta Chi, University of Missouri

Bailey Reece Holmes, Gamma Beta, East Carolina University

Gabrielle Elyse Chudzik, Theta Theta, Oakland University

Katelyn Jolie Kennedy, Alpha Zeta, Northwestern State University

Kelsi Lynn Churchill, Alpha Phi, Central Michigan University

Kaitlyn Marie Kimbrell, Eta Sigma, Culver-Stockton College

Sabrina Marie Clements, Theta Delta, Lindenwood University

Lauren Ashley Klaeger, Alpha Iota, Northeastern State University

Alexis Marie Combs, Beta Alpha, Northern Illinois University

Kailey Scarlet Klimkowski, Alpha Beta, Kent State University

Kaylie Allison Comley, Beta Beta, Missouri State University

Lexi Grace Kochanowski, Alpha Gamma, Fort Hays State University

Jeanna Nicole Cooper, Epsilon Phi, University of North Carolina-Wilmington

Hannah Elizabeth Kroencke, Beta Xi, Southeast Missouri State University

Taylor Nicole Cooper, Eta Rho, Armstrong Atlantic State University

Rachel Nicole Lai, Theta Theta, Oakland University

Amanda Rose Curnow, Theta Theta, Oakland University

Aubree Danielle Lampert, Alpha Zeta, Northwestern State University

Mariah Caitlin Dicksen, Beta Epsilon, Western Illinois University

Mallorie Beth Larimore, Alpha Iota, Northeastern State University

Natalie Marie Doucette, Epsilon Epsilon, Stockton University

Demi Marie LeJeune, Alpha Mu, University of Louisiana at Lafayette

14 the TRIANGLE | fall 2020

Lily Olivia Lemond, Theta Iota, Auburn University

Brianne Marie Shaffer, Eta Sigma, Culver-Stockton College

Melissa Claire Leo, Theta Iota, Auburn University

Grace Marie Sinclair, Alpha Xi, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater

Erica Levy, Zeta Psi, The College of New Jersey

Neha Singh, Epsilon Alpha, California State University-East Bay

Katharine Lucille Lightfoot, Theta Iota, Auburn University

Lacie Paige Skees, Eta Sigma, Culver-Stockton College

Emma Guthrie Lohman, Eta Theta, Gustavus Adolphus College

Jakee Grayson Smith, Epsilon Beta, University of Arkansas

Erica Gabriell Lundt, Eta Sigma, Culver-Stockton College Katie Leann Mack, Theta Iota, Auburn University Alyssa Erin Maley, Alpha Zeta, Northwestern State University

at Monticello Rebecca Rose Smith, Theta Epsilon, University of Las Vegas Nevada

Ahnna Marie Matthews, Eta Sigma, Culver-Stockton College

Peyton M. Spurgeon, Alpha Zeta, Northwestern State University

Megan Elizabeth Mayer, Theta Delta, Lindenwood University

Danica Elyse Stassen, Epsilon Omicron, Illinois State University

Aesling Elizabeth McCullough, Epsilon Delta, Gannon University

Calisa Lynn Steel, Eta Sigma, Culver-Stockton College

Bailey Jordan McGuire, Alpha Beta, Kent State University

Cameron Michelle Steilen, Beta Beta, Missouri State University

Emily Rose McMahon, Zeta Psi, The College of New Jersey

Natalie Layne Stephens, Epsilon Beta, University of Arkansas

Bridget Lynn Miller, Alpha Zeta, Northwestern State University

at Monticello

Michaela Lynn Molnar, Alpha Chi, Murray State University

Nicole Gwendolyn Stock, Eta Sigma, Culver-Stockton College

Hanna Brooke Murry, Alpha Iota, Northeastern State University

Morgan Abigael Tackett, Delta Eta, University of Southern Indiana

Sydney Marie Neuner, Eta Sigma, Culver-Stockton College

Dannielle Raschelle Tally, Alpha Iota, Northeastern State University

Brooklynn YNhu Nguyen, Eta Kappa, Texas Woman’s University

Emma Lauren Taylor, Alpha Epsilon, Northwest Missouri

Gabrielle Marie Norcross, Alpha Beta, Kent State University

State University

Payton Marie Nunez, Alpha Mu, University of Louisiana at Lafayette

Jenna Marie Thoretz, Delta Omicron, Gettysburg College

Rachel Leigh Ottman, Zeta Psi, The College of New Jersey

Taylor Ann Tompkins, Theta Iota, Auburn University

Rebecca Jean Pallen, Epsilon Eta, East Stroudsburg University

Thea Joy Toocheck, Delta Omicron, Gettysburg College

Rylee Elizabeth Parrott, Beta Beta, Missouri State University

Emily Rose Tsinkelis, Zeta Kappa, Montclair State University

Mackenzie Diane Patrick, Eta Sigma, Culver-Stockton College

Abigail Blake Vansickle, Alpha Omicron, University of

Emma Meredith Peacock, Theta Iota, Auburn University

Central Arkansas

Kinsey Michelle Pedersen, Alpha Gamma, Fort Hays State University

Meg Josephine Voigt, Beta Beta, Missouri State University

Grace Renee Pere, Alpha Iota, Northeastern State University

Miranda Alecia Vos, Theta Theta, Oakland University

Cheyanne Nicole Perryman, Eta Sigma, Culver-Stockton College

Ellie Grace Weber, Alpha Chi, Murray State University

Mary Scott Pourciau, Alpha Zeta, Northwestern State University

Molly C. Whitcomb, Epsilon Omicron, Illinois State University

Makenzie Grace Prenger, Eta Sigma, Culver-Stockton College

Emma Claire White, Mu, Truman State University

Shelby Madysen Ptak, Theta Iota, Auburn University

Casey Sakai Williams, Alpha Zeta, Northwestern State University

Jessica Noel Radcliffe, Lambda, Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Madison Ann Wiseman, Theta Lambda, University of

Mary Audrah Reynolds, Alpha Iota, Northeastern State University

Illinois Springfield

Bronte Lane Rhoden, Alpha Zeta, Northwestern State University

Helen Leclair Woodward, Delta Omicron, Gettysburg College

Roxanne Marie Rinaldi, Eta Kappa, Texas Woman’s University

Carver Gwendolyn Wolfe, Eta Xi, Ursinus College

Whitney Jo Roach, Alpha Iota, Northeastern State University

Precious Yvette Wright, Alpha Iota, Northeastern State University

Marisa Brianne Romanchek, Eta Beta, Newberry College

Xiaoying Yang, Theta Zeta, Case Western Reserve University

Faith Rebecca Rose, Theta Gamma, McKendree University

Alexandra Nichole Yiambilis, Delta Omicron, Gettysburg College

Anna Frieda Rosenberg, Beta Theta, University of Pittsburgh

Kristen Corinne Ziegler, Eta Theta, Gustavus Adolphus College

Elizabeth Victoria Roti, Eta Upsilon, Lynchburg University

Megan Elizabeth Zierold, Delta Omicron, Gettysburg College

Autumn Leigh Rowold, Beta Xi, Southeast Missouri State University Ruby Laise Saad, Alpha Omicron, University of Central Arkansas Emily Ann Salisbury, Eta Beta, Newberry College Alyssa Mckenzie Savage, Theta Delta, Lindenwood University Abigail Renee Schellert, Beta Beta, Missouri State University Grace E. Scherschel, Beta Beta, Missouri State University Justine Barbara Seibel, Theta Iota, Auburn University Renata J. Serpico, Epsilon Omicron, Illinois State University

the TRIANGLE | fall 2020 15

leadership

By Devyn Vinson, Zeta Alpha

Executive Director Spotlight:

Jenna Martin Pendry

Jenna Martin Pendry (right) pictured with two fellow Panhellenic sisters at the Association of Fraternity Advisors (AFA) Annual Meeting last winter. Libby Anderson (left), member of Alpha Epsilon Phi and CEO of Zeta Beta Tau Fraternity, was Martin Pendry’s Fraternity/Sorority Advisor in college. Cassie Gerhardt (center), member of Alpha Chi Omega and on their national council, is the associate vice president of student affairs & diversity and associate dean of students at the University of North Dakota.

16 the TRIANGLE | fall 2020

Amid the pandemic, Tri Sigma was undergoing another

change. On Feb. 3, Tri Sigma welcomed a new Executive Director, Jenna Martin Pendry. Jenna comes to us from her previous employer and sisterhood, Sigma Kappa Sorority.

Jenna currently lives in Sylva, NC. She works remotely but

lives close enough to go to the Mabel Lee Walton House if needed.

She has a husband, Ben, and two kids, Jacqueline and Branch, who just celebrated his birthday in

mentor and Panhellenic experience, Jenna knew that Greek life

sometimes brings you to life-long friends outside of your chapter.

Jenna continued her career with Sigma Kappa Headquarters

and continued to learn and grow. When the executive director

position opened up at Tri Sigma, Jenna applied and couldn’t help but recognize some similarities to her sisterhood.

The violet is the official flower of Sigma Kappa, one of their

colors is lavender,

quarantine, but they made the best of it.

Jenna’s Greek experience

started during college at the

and their official Jenna Martin Pendry alongside her fellow Sigma Kappa field consultants in 2003-2004 at a Sigma Kappa leadership program.

University of Central Missouri, where

called The Triangle.

Tri Sigma’s official

flower is the purple

she studied Elementary Education.

violet, The Triangle

She grew up knowing she would

is our magazine,

join Greek life because both of her

and one of our

parents are affiliated. Jenna decided

colors is Royal

to forge her path and not follow her

Purple. Beyond

mother’s legacy; she joined Sigma

these similarities,

Kappa Sorority.

magazine is also

we also share the

During

pearl as our official

undergrad, Jenna

gem. Jenna was

wasted no time

given pearls as a

getting involved in

wedding gift. She

her chapter. She

has always loved

took a chair position

the gem and the

during her first

color purple.

full semester and

Jenna’s natural

followed it up with

connection to

more leadership

Tri Sigma has

positions on the

eased her transition into our organization. Given the

During her senior

lot to manage operationally. She spent the entire month

Panhellenic Council. year, Jenna applied to be a consultant for Sigma Kappa

circumstances surrounding COVID-19, Jenna has had a

Jenna Martin Pendry with her husband, Ben, and two children, Jacqueline and Branch.

of March working on pandemic-related topics. Looking to the future, she is excited to work with our board of

directors and learn more about housing. Jenna is excited

and was accepted. She spent the fall visiting different chapters

to be a part of another 122 years of Tri Sigma culture.

her education and studied for her master’s degree with Greek life

to know that everyone is in this together. She noted, “Values come

and established a new chapter in the spring. She then continued in her head and heart.

Jenna is a people-person who can talk to anyone. She made

a special friend, who she viewed as a mentor in her Greek life

Jenna Martin Pendry’s advice to members during this time is

out in times of crisis.” With values like Tri Sigma’s, Jenna knows she is right at home in her new position as executive director.

advisor from undergrad. They became life-long friends, and Jenna found a career sounding-board to talk openly to. Because of her

the TRIANGLE | fall 2020 17

leadership

By Assistant Director of Chapter Services Candy Rivera Evans, Tri Delta

Virtual Recruitment with Beta Tau PEOPLE JOIN PEOPLE. That statement is popularly used to summarize recruitment

strategies. It seems easy enough, in theory; step 1. Find a person - step 2. Befriend them -

step 3. Be sisters! Recruiting new members isn’t as easy as that, but it can be; it just requires the recruiter to get to know the person they are recruiting.

That has been the recruitment strategy for the Beta Tau Chapter at the University of Detroit Mercy. For two-time Membership

Recruitment Director Pamela Braund, this success has been a long time coming. The chapter can celebrate a strong sisterhood while being at total, even in the time of Covid-19.

Two years ago, the Beta Tau Chapter was coming off of

a less than successful primary recruitment, gaining two new

members from the primary recruitment period with 11 more spots to fill. Internally, the chapter was not in a good place; they were

unaccredited, had several members terminate, owed a financial

debt to NHQ, and the sisterhood was non-existent. This was also the first year that the campus had moved primary recruitment

from fall to spring. Pamela as MRD, had a lot to adjust to. First on the list was working through the internal issues. Knowing

that a PNM could easily feel that the room’s vibe was off, the chapter members had to have fierce and sometimes difficult

conversations with one another to address their issues. They

decided that they didn’t want to bring additional members into that environment until it was more positive, and it had to start from within.

elicit specific answers in their relaxed conversations. Instead of

was the information she learned at Recruitment Summit. Stating

me about your involvement on campus” to see what the new

an open mind, and started planning for what to do better. Simple

they would be able to prioritize.

casual to more formal each round and a focus on revamping

it truly was a group effort. Though small in number, everyone

and not a funeral.” Tears are okay, but the focus is not on the

The chapter has made intentional efforts to be involved in

new sisters into a lifelong sisterhood. The chapter reassessed

Sigma apparel, and being their most authentic selves. Chapter

made a concerted effort to pose questions to PNM’s that would

to recruit.” This was not to start a conversation with the sole

Another major takeaway that Pam brought to the chapter

asking, “Are you able to commit to a sorority?” they asked, “Tell

it was crucial to their success, Pam took feedback, notes, and

member was already juggling and if sorority could be something

changes, like outfits building up throughout the week from

preference night with the simple mantra that “it is a wedding

was empowered to spread Tri Sigma’s brand across campus.

seniors’ sadness of leaving the chapter, but the joy of welcoming

their campus community, attending various events, wearing

how they were viewing recruitment prep through workshops and

President Natalia Gomez said, “Everyone had a responsibility

18 the TRIANGLE | fall 2020

Another key to the chapter’s recruitment success is that

purpose of trying to recruit them, but also to form friendships and

together. One way that Beta Tau passed the time was by creating

made a new friend. If it came down to making a decision, they

objects out of their fridges at home. They posted it on their social

connections. Even if they weren’t interested later on, at least they would hope people would gravitate towards their friends.

It seems simple, right? Just make friends. We also know that

it can feel like a pretty tall order to go up to a random stranger and say, “hey.” Sometimes chapters will lean on their more

extroverted members to reach out and connect with people,

but it can start with a smile. Ask them how their weekend was.

They may not remember what you asked them, but they will

remember that you made an effort. Still feel like that’s too much?

A compliment, such as “I like your shirt.”, does not require

a a response, but an interaction was made; that’s progress!

Friendship forms slowly, and over time you can build up that comfort and rapport, and then you can try to grab lunch or

coffee. This is not the time to have seven sisters waiting in the

wings to meet this potential new member. Slowly, introductions can be made to friends who just so happen to be sisters.

Beta Tau was able to make up missing numbers with a

commitment to continuous open bidding, or COB. Through the

COB process, the chapter can get to know potential members in

a more relaxed manner than a week-long commitment to primary recruitment. This allows members to have conversations over

coffee, lunches, campus events, and game nights. The chapter

was well on their way to total this past spring, and then a global pandemic put the world on hold.

In the early days of quarantine, the chapter was hopeful that

by mid to late April, they would be back on campus, finishing up postponed Initiation ceremonies, attending formals, celebrating Founders Day in person, and watching their graduating sisters

cross the stage at graduation. They now know that that would not be the case and that a lot has changed in the way they interact with one another. The one thing that hasn’t changed is the

sisterhood; it simply looks different from what they are used to.

What do you do when the world sees you as a social

organization, but you aren’t able to socialize with one another in person? The chapter adapted, like our Founders, alumnae, and institutions did during world wars, depressions, and recessions

before. Chapter meetings, new member education, even senior

send-ons were moved online. Applications like Instagram, TikTok, and Houseparty became vital to daily social contact with their

friends and sisters they couldn’t be with anymore. The chapter decided to keep posting content during quarantine to show

their followers that they were still a sisterhood, still acting like

a TikTok video that showcased sisters, in letters, taking random media, and it caught the eye of Julie Burgess, a freshman at

the University of Detroit Mercy. During her first two semesters,

Julie already had positive interactions with the chapter members on campus, citing that they were always approachable, happy, and had a positive energy to them. When she saw the video,

she commented that it looked like a lot of fun and would love

to join. At the time, it seemed like a group of friends having fun

together even while at home. When she found out that they were all members of the same organization, it prompted Julie to think

about what it could mean to be in a sorority. She saw how close

they were during quarantine, still having a great time as they had been all along on their social media, and was emotionally drawn to it.

Upon seeing the video’s positive response, chapter advisor

Arlene Ball nudged the chapter to reach out to this person who commented on the post and get to know her better. The social

media chair reached out and asked if she wanted to know more

about the organization, and a Zoom meeting was scheduled. As members, we know the ins and outs of sorority operations, but we have to remember when it all seemed foreign to us. Julie,

prepared with a list of questions, asked Pam all of her questions, and received answers for all of them. This reassured Julie that

she was making the right decision by getting to know the women who brought such light and positivity to her life in such a short time. During one Zoom call, the icebreaker question was to

introduce your favorite stuffed animal. At the time, Julie shared that she did not currently have one, but that it was still great to hear and learn about everyone else’s stuffed animal origins. As

fate would have it, Julie’s grandmother gifted her a small stuffed rabbit in her Easter basket and excitedly shared with her new sisters that she too now had someone to introduce.

Julie, along with other new members across the country,

patiently awaited the fall for their initiation. Some happened as early as summer, the first week of classes, right before

recruitment, and some are still counting down the days. All are looking forward to interacting with their sisters, hugging their bigs, and proudly wearing their new letters. The sorority was

something to look forward to, but we know that as Tri Sigma women, our sisterhood did not cease during this time; it just had to adapt.

a chapter, and that no matter what, they would get through it

the TRIANGLE | fall 2020 19

member news

Collegiate News ALPHA BETA, KENT STATE UNIVERSITY

closure of universities and Fraternity and Sorority Life (FSL). None

lost so much,” Alpha Beta senior KatiLynn Miller said. “It helped

last time they collectively saw their sisters.

life.’” However, through the doom and gloom, Alpha Beta rose to

cancelled in a heartbeat. People packed up their bags and left

say goodbye to their seniors. Likewise, they still supported their

college home.

the community, the “Week of Kindness” was still in full swing. On-

“I am thankful though for a chapter that kept us well connected

Alpha Beta at Kent State University was no exception to the sad

and sisters who are so caring during this time when it felt like I

of them thought that the March 9 TV sisterhood event would be the

me realize the true meaning behind, ‘It’s not just four years, it’s for

the challenge of giving a proper send-off and an opportunity to

Events ranging from community service to formal were

the school, and some never got to give a proper goodbye to their

community during this worldwide crisis. When it came to helping

campus, the week would consist of working as a chapter to deliver gifts to other FSL organizations, bringing treats to classmates, and

spreading all of the kindness that Sigma Sigma Sigma has to offer.

The COVID-19 pandemic proposed a challenge; but with the work of Alpha Beta President, Maddy Greene, and community service chair heads, Nicole Dureiko and Jenny Greskovich, the chapter was able to work with the Kent State FSL community and raise

$732 for the Akron Children’s Hospital and the University Hospital

COVID-19 Caregiver Fund. “We thought it would be more beneficial

to distribute our funds to various organizations that support essential workers,” Greskovich said. Additionally, to help the community, we are supporting sisters to make masks for and deliver groceries to

those at risk. They held their chapter meetings over Zoom, allowing

sisters to see each other at 7 p.m. each Sunday, just as if they were at school. Despite the unforeseen circumstances, they still had

almost all of their chapter in attendance at the Zoom meetings.

“It is important for every sister to understand that during these

difficult times, her chapter is supporting her,” Greene said. “This is

the truest test of the stability of our sisterhood, and through this, our bonds have become stronger than ever.”

ALPHA PI, CLARION UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA

Morgan Maizer, the Membership Recruitment Director for the

Alpha Pi Chapter at Clarion University of Pennsylvania, had the opportunity to go to the Presidents Academy and Recruitment Summit held in January 2020. During her time at The Summit Alpha Beta Chapter members work together to make a photo

she gained valuable skills to bring back to the chapter, planned a

top row: Maddie Michaelis, Raychel Meixner, Makayla Rogers;

leadership skills!

third row: Rachel Berg, Taylor Bianco, Aricka Hill; bottom row:

Fit” theme. For this theme, our sisters decorated the room with

of love and support from their own houses. Pictured left to right,

successful spring recruitment, and implemented her developed

second row: Kelley Nichols, Sydney Cawley, KatiLynn Miller;

Madelynn Jessberger, Ginny Weavill, Zoe Geftos

puzzle pieces along with picture frames that included some of

20 the TRIANGLE | fall 2020

During spring recruitment, Maizer created “The Perfect

the sisters’ favorite memories within Sigma Sigma Sigma. During

this recruitment event, our sisters expressed the importance of

Goddess, Kelli Bergmark, Tri Sigma was able to win the Spirit Cup

created because of Tri Sigma.

The Gamma Lambda Chapter has not won the Spirit Cup since

sisterhood and how much we cherish the bond and memories

On bid day, we welcomed our new members of Sigma Sigma

Sigma. Our sisters celebrated expanding our chapter with amazing new members that uphold the values of Tri Sigma as well as our sisterhood. The day was filled with laughs, excitement, yummy foods, and bonding.

ALPHA CHI, MURRAY STATE UNIVERSITY

Fifty-one members of Murray State University’s Tri Sigma chapter participated in the campus “Up Till Dawn” event on Feb. 21.

Together, they achieved top fundraising sorority, raising a total

of $10,776 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Alpha Chi sisters stayed up through the whole night for the event, which happens once a year. Chapter President, Logan Colvis, also

serves as the Fundraising Director for Up Till Dawn. Her job is to make sure the event hits the goal of raising $50,000 total. This

year $50,293 was raised. The event was successful with many women from Tri Sigma and other organizations raising money, and they are already excited for next year’s event!

by raising over $70 cash and $150 of goods for the local food shelf. the Greek Games of 2016, so this was an amazing victory for the

chapter. Through the support and participation of the sisters, they

were able to donate to local charities and raise awareness of what it means to be a Sigma, all while having a great time.

GAMMA PI, NICHOLLS STATE UNIVERSITY

The women of the Gamma Pi Chapter are always striving to give back and raise money for our philanthropy. On Mar. 6, they held

their fourth semi-annual plate lunch. All the proceeds of this plate lunch, $1,767, benefited the March of Dimes. On Apr. 23, the

Gamma Pi Chapter took part in a campus wide event called GiveN-Day. This event is a way for Gamma Pi supporters to give back and provide their chapter with funds to go towards philanthropy

events, scholarships for the women in their chapter, and more. This year they raised $2,340 in total; of this, $700 came from winning

challenges, and they placed 10th out of 97 different campus clubs.

Along with their success from these events, they welcomed new sisters into their chapter.

GAMMA LAMBDA, UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-EAU CLAIRE

DELTA PSI, ST. JOSEPH’S UNIVERSITY

Wisconsin, competed in Greek Week Games against other sororities

chapters across the nation have been put on pause, and yet,

This past March, the Gamma Lambda Chapter of Eau Claire,

and fraternities to raise awareness and funds for local charities and food banks. With the support of sisters, and their excellent Greek

Welcome to the Tri Sigma Jungle! Alpha Pi Chapter members Kendra Colwell and Ryleigh Bruner.

Due to circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic,

our sisterhood continues to stay close while practicing social distancing. Zoom calls are one way our sisters have stayed

Alpha Chi Chapter members, pictured back row left to right: Emma Brasher, Caryl Lyn Akers, Hallie Long, Lauren Barto, Madison Mitchell, Morgan Lewis, Libby Scott, Jesse Shell; middle row left to right: Maddie Peterson, Reagan Melton, Alex Etheridge, Cami Wallace, Julia Spurrier, Melina Eaker, Lindsay Wibbenmeyer, Alyssa Kuhl, Ellie Webber, Leighton Solomon; front row left to right: Melanie Husk, Meg Trout, Isabel DiSalvo, Logan Colvis, Maggie Haines, Shannon Robinson, Abby Cimarolli, Emily Gulledge, Madi Pribble, Lauren Venegoni

Gamma Pi Chapter members, top row left to right: Harlee Smith, Madison Rineholt, Olivia Cantrelle, Emily Witt, Hali Westerman; bottom row left to right, Alexis Leger, Adeline Clements

the TRIANGLE | fall 2020 21

member news

Collegiate News

Parting letters, awards, and Sigma graduation stole for senior, Peyton Drift, Delta Psi Chapter

Isabella Quatraro, Epsilon Pi Chapter, visiting goats in the Blue Ridge Mountains

connected. During these times, we call upon our sisters for

support, inspiration, and reassurance. It is moments like these that we return to the foundation of what it means to be sisters of Sigma Sigma Sigma.

Care packages filled with parting gifts and endearing letters

were sent to our graduating seniors as a nod to their unwavering loyalty, leadership, and commitment as women of character.

We hope that their hearts may be imprinted with the bonds of

sisterhood so that they will always cherish memories made as women of Tri Sigma.

EPSILON PI, PRESBYTERIAN COLLEGE

The members of the Epsilon Pi Chapter of Tri Sigma spent the first weekend in February embarking on an emotional journey

that would bring their sisterhood closer together. This sisterhood

weekend was filled with Sigma stories, good laughs, happy cries, and bonding experiences that created even stronger friendships among sisters. They hiked the Blue Ridge Mountains, found themselves face to face with the sweetest baby goats, and

shared some quality time exploring the historic Village of Flat

Rock. Not only did they grow as a sisterhood, they grew as a

family. Epsilon Pi Chapter stands together as one and strives to empower one another through everything they do.

Zeta Pi Chapter Executive members shop for Sigma Brunch: pictured left to right, Makayla TatumPortzline, Allison Churchman, and Shannon Bradley

EPSILON SIGMA, VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY

Amid COVID-19, Epsilon Sigma Chapter was still able to virtually participate in Pi Kappa Alpha’s Fireman’s Challenge. Throughout the week, Pi Kappa Alpha’s Lambda Chi chapter set up a

series of challenges online to encourage their own members

and other VCU fraternity and sorority involvement. Sororities were challenged to make a Tik-Tok to show their support for

the Fireman’s Challenge. The fraternity raised $23,090 for the

Evans-Haynes Burn Center, VCU School of Medicine. Epsilon

Sigma raised the most money out of seven sororities and was

named the winner of the 2019 Fireman’s Challenge. During such an uncertain time in the world, it’s great to see the Greek life

community at VCU come together to raise money for such an amazing cause that benefits burn victims.

ZETA KAPPA, MONTCLAIR STATE UNIVERSITY

During the COVID-19 global pandemic, the Zeta Kappa Chapter at Montclair State University continued to prioritize sisterhood.

Even though the sisters of the Zeta Kappa Chapter all had to say goodbye to one another and stay at home, our sisterhood never ceased. We played a big game of Kahoot over Zoom to quiz

each other on what we knew about our members. We also had a Zoom call with Melissa Gisoni, of the TV show Dance Moms.

Zeta Kappa continued to have chapter meetings over Zoom as a way to keep sisters in the loop with ongoing changes from

22 the TRIANGLE | fall 2020

COVID-19 as well as a way to spread positivity and be there for

Epsilon Sigma Chapter and Pi Kappa Alpha’s Lambda Chi Chapter

Theta Theta Chapter members Carol Ruffalo and Cassidy Lemanski

everyone during changing times. Sisters continue to fundraise for

the different ways that a woman can be empowered. It also

healthcare workers!

interpreted.

Tri Sigma’s philanthropies and have even been writing letters to

highlights the many beautiful ways that our values can be

ZETA PI, VIRGINIA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY

THETA THETA, OAKLAND UNIVERSITY

Chapter of the Year Award at Virginia Wesleyan University. The

wanted to have a Galentine’s Day themed sisterhood event.

The Zeta Pi Chapter of Sigma Sigma Sigma has won the 2020 chapter did so through continued involvement on campus,

exemplifying diversity and active leadership from most of the chapter. The women also participated in other organizations such as athletic teams, student government, and service organizations.

The sisters of Zeta Pi Chapter were found at events such as

the annual 12 Days of Christmas, hosted by VWU, Studying with the Zetas, and the National Panhellenic Council bake sale, in

addition to their own events. The sisters of Zeta Pi Chapter held successful events such as Playing for Play Therapy, Spring BidDay, and Cake-Pop Up. These events and many others created a positive campus image of Tri Sigma that campus and Greek life officials thought was exemplary.

The sisters of Zeta Pi Chapter are a part of the most

diverse chapter on their campus, with almost 40% of the

chapter representing minorities. Zeta Pi Chapter is also home to a diverse group of women, including three NCAA athletes, an international student, a former Navy Analyst, and sisters

of different faiths. The diversity within the chapter shows all

The Theta Theta Chapter’s sisterhood chair, Delfina Berishaj, They are a newer sorority on campus and don’t have a house,

so they attempted to secure a room somewhere on campus to hold the party. Unfortunately, they were denied a room the day of, so Delfina decided to have it at her house. About 20 sisters

were in attendance and had a blast! Before the event, they held a box making party that doubled as an informal recruitment event.

Each attendee brought a box to decorate with craft paper, gems, markers, glitter glue, etc. Upon arriving at the Galentine’s Day

party, everyone was greeted and then sat down to write one thing that we love about each sister on an index card. They were then

dropped into the boxes. The party area was ten times better than any room they could have gotten on campus! They had pizza, a

never-ending line of snacks made by Delfina’s mom, Valentine’s

Day themed sweets, creamsicle floats made to order by Delfina, and many backdrops for photos. They watched movies in the

theater room and even had a dance party to “Mama Mia.” The Galentine’s Day sisterhood was a blast; every chapter should consider having one!

the TRIANGLE | fall 2020 23

A.

B.

A. Badge Pendant*, #2801 (Chain sold separately.)

A.*

B. Rope Chain, 18�, #013R

E.

C. 45th National Convention Diamond Badge, #0122 D. Interchangeable Badge Ring*, #2801

C.

E. 10K Lavaliere with gold-filled Snake Chain, #L2649

F.

F. Rory Necklace, #RORY D.*

G. 10 Year Pin, #3102 H. 25 Year Member Pin, #0025 I. 50 Year Stick Pin, #0050 J. Chapter President Ring, #0452P K. Addy Ring, #ADDY L. Swirl Ring, #1000A *Badges sold separately.

J.

K. L.

24 the TRIANGLE | fall 2020

G.

H.

I.

Congratulations Alumnae Initiates Initiation date, Name, Chapter 11/17/2019 ChrisAnn Polino Miranda, Zeta Alpha

12/6/2019

Susan Lavorgna Harlow, Zeta Kappa

11/24/2019 Danielle Machenry Brown, Epsilon Epsilon

02/1/2020

Kathryn Krippahne Kassai, Iota Alpha

11/17/2019 April Rutherford Medlock, Gamma Xi

12/6/2019

Maria Mugno DiCosimo, Zeta Kappa

2021 Chapter Anniversaries Anniversary Alumnae Chapter

Denver Area

Natchitoches, LA Dallas, TX

New Orleans, LA

San Jose Peninsula, CA

San Francisco East-Bay, CA Harrisburg, PA

Anniversary 90 75 70

Baton Rouge, LA Oklahoma City Metropolitan Central,

MA

First State, Delaware

Delta Zeta

20

Gamma Zeta

35

Epsilon Eta

50

30 30 30 30

Minot, ND

Anniversary Collegiate Chapter

60

35

Edmond, OK

Collegiate Chapter Alpha Mu Beta Epsilon Beta Xi

30

30

Epsilon Phi

30

Epsilon Tau

30 30 20

Epsilon Zeta

15

Zeta Delta

Zeta Gamma

10

Epsilon Upsilon Epsilon Sigma Eta Nu

Eta Lambda Eta Tau

Theta Gamma

Zeta Alpha

Epsilon Psi

Epsilon Chi

Philadelphia Area

w e N

Alumnae Chapter

Welcome!

Charter Date 1/23/20

Alumnae Chapter Pittsburg Kansas Area

member news

Alumnae News ALPHA XI ALUMNAE, UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-

Medlock, mother of Gamma Xi Chapter President, Taylor

Alumnae from the UW-Whitewater Alpha Xi Chapter celebrated

and a daughter and the chapter members that were present. The

Carolina. They explored historic downtown Charleston City Market,

Sigma!

Monument, and other local venues. Most importantly, they enjoyed

INDIANAPOLIS SUBURBAN ALUMNAE CHAPTER

WHITEWATER

their 45+ years of sisterhood with a weekend get-a-way to South

visited the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Fort Sumter National

Medlock. This was an incredibly special moment for a mother

collegians and alumnae worked together in recruiting April to Tri

catching up and reminiscing.

The Indianapolis Suburban Alumnae Chapter has dedicated

CHICAGO NORTH SHORE ALUMNAE CHAPTER

included a March of Dimes Baby Shower to donate clothing,

this year to serving and learning. Meetings and activities have

Chicago North Shore Alumnae Chapter sisters gathered to stuff

diapers, and baby accessories to March of Dimes families. In

Shore University Hospital. The dolls are for the children to decorate

decorating cookies during the Christmas season. In January,

stress of being in the hospital. Brunch for Babies is an annual

of Indian Arts. In February, sisters and families visited the

with children in the NICU of a local Chicago hospital. They were

educational presentation. If the pandemic had not stopped them,

University. Together, they enjoyed a lovely brunch, sharing chapter

team for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, serving hot chocolate to

and sew 65 “me” dolls for the little patients at Evanston North

December, they held a cookie exchange and lesson on how to

as “mini-me’s” to play with during their stay and help lessen the

sisters enjoyed a tour of the Indianapolis Eiteljorg Museum

chapter event. Sisters created parent and sibling packs for families

Holcomb Observatory and Planetarium at Butler University for an

joined by sisters from the Beta Alpha Chapter at Northern Illinois

their remaining meetings would have included being a hostess

updates, and giving back to the local community.

participants, and making T-Shirt bags for the March of Dimes.

EASTERN NC ALUMNAE CHAPTER

with the Beta Gamma Chapter’s 75th anniversary. Both are still

They also planned on hosting a Founders Day celebration along

In late November 2019, members of the Eastern NC Alumnae

planned for future dates. A strong point of Sigma Sigma Sigmas

Xi collegians of Barton College. The alumna initiate was April

and the best will come back to us.”

Chapter took part in an alumnae initiate project with the Gamma

is we are flexible and will “Give to the world the best we have,

Alpha Xi Chapter Alumnae enjoy a carriage ride in historic Charleston. Pictured left to right: Bette Ekes Yentz, Linda Pontbriand Johnson, Susan Leban Kobeski, Georgia Marciniak Janke, Sheree Lane Jones, Diane Chapp Schlosser, Krysten Stepke, Kerri Dehn Haefner, Mia Stein Kodzik, Jackie Foster Myers, Colleen Reardon Calia, Lisa Rushman Peplinski, Deb Fields Nockerts, Karen Bultman Cisewski, Gail Sadowski Bennett, Ellyn Podjaski Dunne

26 the TRIANGLE | fall 2020

Indianapolis Suburban Alumnae having fun at a Wine and Canvas experience

NASHVILLE ALUMNAE CHAPTER

Pediatric Therapy Program at the Manatee Memorial Hospital in

Sisters met monthly to celebrate our sisterhood. At Christmas,

Gamma, and Gail Curry, Rho, for spearheading the pecan sales

The Nashville Alumnae Chapter has been very busy this year.

Bradenton, FL. Thanks to members Jacque Devine Lewis, Beta

they enjoyed a delicious lunch and donated baby items to be given

and to Marlo Brotman King for coordinating with the hospital.

initiative: Sigma Serves Children.

WICHITA KANSAS ALUMNAE CHAPTER

Room nurse Grace Elizabeth Steinbrecher Rhea, Alpha Beta, put out

together throughout the fall and winter, but just as spring was

the call was Sigma Sister Helen Sharrett Shull, Beta Gamma. Helen

fall, the chapter held its annual Soup Supper at a local Panera

Purple. As always, Sigmas support each other!

the holidays, the Wichita, Kansas, women tried a Holiday Sip

OKLAHOMA CITY METROPOLITAN ALUMNAE CHAPTER

reconvened for a tour of a nonprofit organization’s facilities

to the Nashville Women’s Shelter. They truly live our philanthropic

When the Covid-19 virus struck Clarksville, TN, Emergency

The sisters of the Wichita Alumnae Chapter enjoyed getting

a plea for surgical masks for the staff at Tennova Hospital. Answering

starting to take hold, COVID-19 changed some plans. In the

made various masks for the hospital, many in Sigma’s favorite color,

Bread and doubled up with a fundraising event. Just before

This year the Oklahoma City Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter

has focused on wellness. At each meeting they had a program

including some aspect of wellness. Their initial meeting this year was a wine tasting in August. At this meeting, we discussed our

general wellness. Each member selected a picture that represented wellness to them. Then each member shared with the group the significance of the picture for their individual wellness.

Between our chapter and the Edmond Alumnae Chapter,

we have seen three sisters join Omega Chapter. Diana Hornick

Sarber, Past National President; Maxine White Stiles, Beta Mu; and Annette Moore Ryan, Beta Mu. Their loss is mourned, and their contributions are celebrated by all.

and Shop at a local winery. After a short break, the chapter

that the chapter is considering partnering with in the future.

Starkey Inc., was founded in 1930 and is the oldest communitybased nonprofit in Sedgwick County, serving people with

disabilities. The last “in person” gathering the chapter had was

their traditional Broadway Musical; this year’s performance was “Waitress.” Those in attendance had a good laugh and enjoyed a good dose of sisterhood. Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 situation, Wichita Alumnae sisters could not carry out plans for

Founders Day and were forced to settle for a virtual one instead.

Even so, the sisterly love was still alive and well, as those who

were able participated in Tri Sigma’s Giving Day from the safety of their homes. As always, the chapter enjoyed seeing each other at each meeting and are desperately looking forward to their next in

SARASOTA-MANATEE ALUMNAE CHAPTER

The Sarasota-Manatee Alumnae Chapter raised money through

person gathering as soon as it’s possible!

pecan sales, which enabled them to donate funds to the new

Grace Elizabeth Steinbrecher Rhea, Alpha Beta, Nashville Alumnae Chapter, models surgical masks made by Sigma Sister and Golden Violet, Helen Sharrett Shull, Beta Gamma

Oklahoma City Metropolitan Alumnae members at a wine tasting, left to right: Suzanne Johnson Bodger, Iota Alpha, Lauraen Harrison Williams, Episilon Beta and Audrey Stine, Beta Mu

Wichita Kansas Chapter members from left to right: Joyce Duell Stranathan, Alpha Gamma, Dana Dejardin, Chi, Brandi Holt Rausch, Pi, Sid Zerfas Sproul, Alpha Gamma, April Minor Lawson, Alpha Gamma, Stephanie Bronston Rozendal, Pi, and Michelle VanderVeen Harbin, Alpha Gamma.

the TRIANGLE | fall 2020 27

member news

Getting Creative During Quarantine TRI SIGMA MEMBERS SHARE HOW THEY HAVE KEPT BUSY DURING THIS TIME OF ISOLATION

Michael and Bear Prusator, husband and son of Dawn Prusator, Alpha Iota, plant a family garden.

28 the TRIANGLE | fall 2020

Kelsi Wilcox Boyles, Alpha Pi, Clarion University Supporting local businesses - purchased four DIY decorating cookie kits. One for us, our cousins, and grandma. Then did a virtual Zoom session to decorate cookies “together�.

Carlise Eck Giles, Zeta Mu,University of Alaska Fairbanks making Apple Pie with my little legacy, Sydney. Also had a Sigma shirt on, which makes this even better! :-)

the TRIANGLE | fall 2020 29

foundation

The Infinite Power of Our Light “Just as one candle lights another and can light thousands of other candles, so one heart illuminates another heart and can illuminate thousands of other hearts.” – Leo Tolstoy As your new Foundation

to consider the future

hard times as well as the easy. The Foundation Board and staff

Chair, my charge is

of Tri Sigma and our

sisterhood’s financial

needs. It’s why I’m asking you to join our mission of providing enduring

resources through the

Steadfast Giving Club.

Our sisters need

your support. As they

return to college this fall, whether face-to-face or virtually, our undergraduate Sigmas and newest members depend upon

dedicated Sigmas like you for essential educational programming and virtual opportunities.

By joining our Steadfast Giving Club, you empower our

mission all year long and provide sustainable financial support for leadership development, scholarships, and our childhood health

initiatives. Your monthly gift funds opportunities for young women to learn and lead - empowering them beyond their collegiate experience.

Unfortunately, the barriers to higher education are

While I truly believe in the difference our philanthropy will

make in another 20 years, we have to be present during the continue to adapt to the uncertain environment – remaining

focused on Tri Sigma’s vision of empowering women to change the world.

You can expect more frequent updates throughout the year

on our progress and new initiatives we are developing to address Tri Sigma’s ever-changing needs. Virtual opportunities and digital fundraising campaigns will keep you engaged in our mission.

Most importantly, you will see a dedicated effort to grow our

Steadfast Giving Club. Your monthly support will help light the way, ensuring all areas of our mission continue.

Your financial contributions allow us to provide enduring

resources to the women, children and families we serve, but the Foundation also depends upon leaders, volunteers, and social

media ambassadors to increase our reach. I believe YOU are vital to the future of our philanthropy. I will continue to give my time,

talents and treasures during this difficult time to serve Tri Sigma.

Will you join me?

In our bonds,

increasing amidst COVID-19 as is the cost of college enrollment.

Additionally, our hospital partners, already overwhelmed with the reality of COVID-19, must now gear up for cold and flu season.

The need is stronger than ever to provide scholarships to our

sisters and life-changing grants to our childhood health partners.

JeanMarie Komyathy, Gamma Kappa Chair, Foundation Board of Directors

P.S. Join me and more than 160 of your Sigma sisters today as a member of our Steadfast Giving Club at donate.trisigma.org/steadfast.

30 the TRIANGLE | fall 2020

Empowering Women to Change the World The Tri Sigma Foundation commits to practicing good

stewardship with all funds entrusted to us. Our mission is to secure and provide enduring resources to support the leadership development, scholarship, and philanthropic initiatives of Tri Sigma.

As a partner with Tri Sigma National Sorority, the Foundation

paves the way for empowering women to change the world by funding: • annual graduate and undergraduate scholarships to recognize outstanding academic achievement and fill the gap on the rising cost of higher education • leadership development and educational programs that result in strong women ready to lead and succeed beyond their collegiate experience • diversity, equity, and inclusion educational grants to support community-based initiatives • therapeutic play grants benefitting children in local communities across the U.S. • March of Dimes grants supporting prematurity research and the health of all moms and babies

During our 2019-2020 fiscal year, nearly 1500 Sigma sisters,

alumnae and collegiate, made this funding possible by making a gift to the Foundation. These generous contributions include sisters making monthly gifts, gifts of stock, legacy gifts via estate plans, and much more. To learn more about Tri Sigma’s philanthropic initiatives, visit trisigmafoundation.org.

For questions about our mission or financial impact, contact Executive Director Meghan Paden at mpaden@trisigma.org.

the TRIANGLE | fall 2020 31

foundation

Moments that Matter As part of the 2020 Founders Day and Giving Day celebrations, sisters submitted hundreds of their favorite Tri Sigma Moments That Matter. Each moment has built upon one another, and threads of moments create exceptional Tri Sigma experiences.

These are the moments that will remain with us forever.

Margaret Shepherd, Alpha Mu, University of Louisiana at Lafayette I had the opportunity to visit the pediatrics unit at Our Lady of Lourdes Women’s and

Children’s Hospital with my sisters. We took this picture after we delivered pick-me-up letters and get well soon cards to patients and their families. We were able to see firsthand the

people whose lives we were impacting as well as the resources our chapter has helped fund for this hospital through our Robbie Page Memorial local grants.

Alexa Westenberger, Eta Nu, Ramapo College of New Jersey I joined Tri Sigma in Spring 2018 as a member of the Eta Nu Chapter at Ramapo College of New Jersey. I was chosen to represent my chapter as a delegate to the Dunham Women of Character Institute. That experience truly impacted me to be a fierce leader for my chapter.

I applied and received a scholarship to attend UIFI through the Tri Sigma Foundation. I also was chosen to serve as a mentor at Dunham in August 2019. It was my favorite memory

as a Tri Sigma to serve the youth of Tri Sigma members as a mentor and help them on their journey to loving Tri Sigma as much as I do!

Sarah Lively Turner, Alpha Alpha, Concord University I signed up for the trip to visit the Grand Canyon during my first National Convention in 2004.

I spent the whole day exploring such an amazing landmark with a van full of sisters I’d never

met before. This was the day I met my Sigma soulmate Lori Pettyjohn. I also got to meet and spend time with the two women whose names were on my membership certificate - Diana

Hornick Sarber and Jeanne Johnson. I went out of my comfort zone signing up for something

by myself and was rewarded with a day I’ll never forget. The Grand Canyon trip and the whole

Convention experience showed me that Tri Sigma was more than my experience at my chapter and my school. It opened my eyes to the “big picture” of Tri Sigma and sparked a desire in me to give back to and be a part of Tri Sigma as a whole, not just my collegiate chapter.

32 the TRIANGLE | fall 2020

Allison Swick-Duttine, Psi, Marshall University I had the privilege as serving on Tri Sigma’s Executive Council for nine years as a National Vice President. One of my favorite Tri Sigma moments was at the 2013 Orlando Convention where a reception was held for all current and past Executive Council members. All five National Presidents living at the time were present: Ann Williams, Diana Hornick Sarber, Mary K.

Barbee, Laura Ward Sweet, and Kaye Schutte Schendel. We shared Tri Sigma memories while

laughing and crying. I remember thinking that this sisterhood is so much more than a collegiate experience and that I was grateful to have had the opportunity to serve at the national level, and continue giving and receiving from Tri Sigma.

Lori Hoover Richard, Beta Delta, Shepherd University I was fortunate to help at a March of Dimes Military Baby Shower with several alumnae chapters and a collegiate chapter. It is so rewarding to be part of something that impacts families so

positively when they most need it. You cannot help but smile and feel so proud to be a Tri Sigma when you see the impact that we have on the community through March of Dimes.

Jill Iosue Zager, Alpha Nu, Southern Illinois University Carbondale I take my lifetime commitment to our Sorority very seriously, even though I was initiated in

1991. I think we all dream of passing the legacy of our Sorority on to our daughters, and I have been lucky enough to do so. My daughter Marina Zager accepted her bid for Tri Sigma in the

fall of 2014 at the Beta Xi Chapter of Southeast Missouri State University. Then we shared the 2016 National Convention in Chicago, while she was still a collegian. Being able to share Tri Sigma moments with my daughter has been an experience I will never forget.

Nancy Sauer Mann, Beta Gamma, Ball State University My husband passed away in early December. My wonderful Sigma sisters cared for me and continually lifted me during his nine months in hospice care. The presence of my Sigma

sisters supporting not only me but also my husband, during that difficult year showed me how personal our Sigma bonds are. Not only did many sisters attend his Honor Flight celebration, but many also donated to the Honor Flight organization in his memory. The love I received

was everything and more that Tri Sigma promises. As an active lifelong member, this entire

experience validated everything that we were told and experienced when we pledged. The best part is that, as an alumna, we not only have our collegiate sisters close but all the other sisters from so many different decades. Age doesn’t matter - tremendous love and appreciation exist between us all.

the TRIANGLE | fall 2019 33

foundation

EMPOWERING SCHOLARSHIP With more than 200 scholarship applicants each year, it is crucial that we continue to empower academic achievement.

Foundation scholarships provide relief to the rising cost of college tuition and the supplies students require to be successful in pursuit of their degree. Thanks to generous Sigmas, the Foundation awarded 34 academic scholarships for 2020-2021. ’20-21 UNDERGRADUATE SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

Michael Welsh Scholarship Kelly Blacksher, Theta Iota, Auburn University

Louisa Replogle Scholarship Haley Bouchard, Epsilon Chi, Northeastern University

Northern Virginia Alumnae Scholarship Shannon Bradley, Zeta Pi, Virginia Wesleyan University

Lori Dahm Scholarship Ellis Counts, Zeta Lambda, Wingate University

Stephanie Sabol Strom Scholarship Cassidy DeMona, Eta Nu, University of Maryland Baltimore County

Doris Hiles Schroeder Scholarship Meryl Gartland, Epsilon Delta, Gannon University

Barbara Mosely Welsh Scholarship Rachel Greene, Beta Epsilon, Western Illinois University

Ann C. DeCecco Rutkowski Scholarship Jennifer Greskovich, Alpha Beta, Kent State University

HelenMarie Eggert Snyder Scholarship Samantha Griffin, Gamma Iota, University of Massachusetts Amherst

Emily Lewis Lee Scholarship Katherine Howey, Epsilon Delta, Gannon University

Foundation Scholarship Taylor Just, Beta Xi, Southeast Missouri State University

Lucille Morrison Scholarship Kari Klavon, Omicron, Eastern Michigan University

Alpha Mu Scholarship Krista Malley, Alpha Mu, University of Louisiana at Lafayette

Foundation Scholarship McKenna Martinosky, Epsilon Delta, Gannon University

Mabel Lee Walton Scholarship Patti Meadors, Beta Xi, Southeast Missouri State University

Foundation Scholarship Katelyn Modlin, Alpha Gamma, Fort Hays State University

34 the TRIANGLE | fall 2020

Mimi Brandt Hiner Scholarship Kelli Morgan, Alpha Iota, Northeastern State Universit

Margaret Freeman Everett Scholarship Anna Ockel, Beta Xi, Southeast Missouri State University

Shelby Whitten Memorial Scholarship Ashley Ponicsan, Eta Omicron, Sam Houston State University

Violenda Seppala Nelson Scholarship Kaia Rearick, Alpha Pi, Clarion University

Mary Crumpton Brown Scholarship Madeline Reno, Gamma Zeta, Slippery Rock University

Ann Buchler Williams Scholarship Kayleigh Riker, Epsilon Nu, University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Dixie Creamans Shelton Scholarship Isabella Rochford, Zeta Kappa, Montclair State University

Bonnie Rainey Scholarship Ana Paula Saravia, Epsilon Iota, St. Mary’s University

Marie Santee Dunham Scholarship Joesy Shea, Eta Theta, Gustavus Adolphus College

Mary Crumpton Brown Scholarship Delanie Stafford, Zeta Eta, Winona State University

Epsilon Xi Scholarship Brielle Symdom, Delta Chi, University of Virginia

Mary Crumpton Brown Scholarship Grace Tillett, Eta Alpha, Stephens College

’20-21 GRADUATE SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

Catherine Panarese Combs Graduate Scholarship Samantha Angelillo, Eta Phi, Pratt Institute

Foundation Scholarship Chelsea Collins, Zeta Theta, Idaho State University

Kim Davids Scholarship Madalin Roberts, Omicron, Eastern Michigan University

Margaret Parker Munger Scholarship Sara Worrill, Theta Eta, Old Dominion University

Gertrude Lawrence Ledford Scholarship Hannah Godfrey, Alpha Iota, Northeastern State University

Lucile Mertz Hendrick Scholarship Mallory McConathy, Alpha Zeta, Northwestern State University

the TRIANGLE | fall 2020 35

foundation

TRI SIGMA GIVES

2020 Giving Day Recognition

2020 Giving Day Stats

Thank you to the following Sigmas for your matching

gifts and leadership during Tri Sigma’s first Giving Day campaign.

Giving Day Fundraising Goal

/ $65,040

Empowering Future Sigmas - a gift of $5,000

Total Dollars Raised

JeanMarie Komyathy, Gamma Kappa, Marietta College

Average Gift Amount

Angi Feldman Bevers, Beta Gamma, Ball State University A Promise of Philanthropy - a gift of $2,500

/ $50,000

/ $117.88

/ 386

Heather Mergler Mitchell, Epsilon Xi, Indiana University

Number of Donors

Celebration of Sisterhood - a gift of $1,000

Number of Violet Tributes gifted

Susan Poe Flowers, Kappa, Miami University

Number of Phone Calls to Sigmas

Bloomington

Mary Crumpton Brown, Rho, Florida State University Lisa Koeller, Gamma Alpha, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Moments That Matter - a gift of $500

/ 306

/ 676

Number of Promises for Philanthropy

/ 344

Arlene Reid Ball, Alpha Phi, Central Michigan University

Number of Volunteers and Ambassadors

Susie Fink Kuhn, Beta Gamma, Ball State University

Number of Views of FB LIVE Events

Joey Jackson Koenig, Theta Delta, Lindenwood University Mindi Holland Major, Beta Gamma, Ball State University Lorin Phillips, Alpha Upsilon, James Madison University

36 the TRIANGLE | fall 2020

/ 48

/ 11,451

INTRODUCING 2020-2021 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Susan Buche Ayers, Mu,

Beth Deines, Beta Kappa,

Cincinnati, Ohio

Hamilton, Ohio

Truman State University

Arizona State University

Q: If you had the attention of all your

Q: What’s your “why” for serving and

Tri Sigma sisters, what do you wish

supporting our philanthropy?

they better understood or knew about

A: All of my success, I can relate back

the Foundation?

to the Sorority. I have had incredible

A: I would say that Sigma is so wonderful when you think about

leadership opportunities, and a leader is who I am. If I can do

From scholarships, the Robbie Page Memorial, leadership and so

my motivation. During a trip I took to National Headquarters, I got

empowerment. We can’t empower our sisters solely on words.

much more, there would be a missing link if Foundation funding wasn’t there. When we give to the Foundation, we empower

so many Sigma sisters. If everyone did their part, we would be

unstoppable at empowering future Sigmas and our sisterhood.

Shelly Brajkovich Bateman, Beta Epsilon,

anything to give back and give similar opportunities, I will. That is to see Mabel Lee Walton’s desk. They kept it just how she left it.

There were pictures and quotes on her desk, including The Torch

Bearer poem. It went something like this: “We go along our path to light the path for those who follow us.” I’ve taken that to heart all

these years, and I worked very hard to open doors for other people so they can have similar opportunities.

Western Illinois University Springfield, Illinois

Q: What is a goal you have for the Foundation moving forward?

A: The mission of the Foundation

is to support Tri Sigma women as

leaders, provide them with opportunities to grow, and to foster

women of character. As someone who has worked in a nonprofit organization, I intend to use my skill set to take the Foundation to the next level. To push women to be the best they can be,

we must explore uncharted territories and take calculated risks.

As we grow in a professional capacity, it is important to push

ourselves to grow as women and never become stagnant. We

must continue to push ourselves to be better, and that is what I intend to do during my time on the Foundation Board.

2020-2021 BOARD OF DIRECTORS: EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

• Chair: JeanMarie Komyathy, Gamma Kappa, Marietta College • Vice Chair: Camille Weixel Chasteen, Zeta Rho, Johnson and Wales University • Treasurer: Lori Kincaid Rassati, Gamma Psi, Morehead State University • Secretary: Veronica Atkins, Eta Omicron, Sam Houston State University

BOARD MEMBERS AT LARGE

• Susan Buche Ayers, Mu, Truman State University • Shelly Brajkovich Bateman, Beta Epsilon, Western Illinois University • Beth Deines, Beta Kappa, Arizona State University • Stephanie Everett, Epsilon Theta, Oglethorpe University • Nancy Strom McGowan, Kappa, Miami University • Bonnie Rainey, Alpha Sigma, University of Southern Mississippi • Kaye Schutte Schendel, Gamma Phi, University of Wisconsin - River Falls • Mary Webster, Beta Kappa, Arizona State University

EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS

• National President: Natalie Moore Averette, Gamma Beta, East Carolina University • National Treasurer: Ann DeCecco Rutkowski, Epsilon Delta, Gannon University

the TRIANGLE | fall 2020 37

archives

By National Archivist Liz Johns, Delta Omicron

“Steadfast and Unmovable:” Tri Sigma Stays Strong 1931 Convention photo.

One of my favorite things about being the National Archivist is

contributed to the war effort in both world wars, tightened their

editions of the history book, search our digital files, ask my team

during the eight years without a Convention from 1939-1947.

researching topics to share in the Triangle. I flip through all seven members and other Tri Sigmas for tips, conduct some online

research, and dig into the archival boxes at the Walton House looking for primary source materials. Exploring the files at the

Walton House is critical; we have so much material, and we still

know so little about it. In our spring 2020 issue on volunteerism, I found a poem in a 1917 Triangle written by Florence Vickers. For our Fall 2017 article, I digitized photos of our founders who had

careers outside of teaching. But for this issue, I could not access

those materials. The COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of two of the Archives Committee trips to work at the Walton House, limiting access to the small number of materials we already have digitized.

I wanted to share stories about the sisters who came before

us and lived through the Spanish Flu, the Great Depression, and

World War II. But our history books barely mention these events, and the few The Triangle magazines that I have on hand are

not from the right time. We have little information about these

important times where Tri Sigma history intersects with national and world history. But I can share what we do know. We know

that Tri Sigma did not open any new chapters from 1918-1919,

but we do not know if the gap in expansion was due to the 1918 H1N1 Pandemic, or something else affecting the sorority. One

chapter, Lambda at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, closed in 1919 (re-established in 1928), but that was due to the school’s faculty eliminating the Greek system. We know that our sisters

38 the TRIANGLE | fall 2020

belts during the Great Depression, and missed seeing each other At least one other national sorority, Alpha Delta Theta, did not

survive the Great Depression; Tri Sigma, at least on a national level, stayed strong. Tri Sigma closed four chapters during

the Great Depression but opened 11 more from 1930-1939.

During World War II, Tri Sigma closed only one chapter (Iota, re-

established in 1943) and opened seven others. The Triangle never missed an issue, and the sorority published songbooks in 1931 and 1942. We kept going.

We know little of how disease, depression, and war

changed the lives of our sisters and our sorority, but we do

know that these events affected them. At the first Convention

after the second World War in 1947, National President Mabel Lee Walton, Gamma and Omega, addressed the Sorority in

Chicago; “We can only go forward into a new era. Methods of

operation change… but the ideas and symbolism of our sorority

remain steadfast and unmovable. Take from the altar of the past the fire, not the ashes.” (Over a Century of Sisterhood, p. 124).

Her words still apply today over 70 years later.

I do not want our future sisters to look back on the COVID-19

pandemic, looking for inspiration from the women who survived it and be left wanting. Join me in capturing and sharing our history: if you have a Tri Sigma story, photos, or memorabilia to share

related to the COVID-19 pandemic, contact Liz Johns, national archivist at archives@trisigma.org.

omega listing

Omega Listing The following Tri Sigmas were reported to have entered the Omega Chapter between the dates of Dec. 1, 2019 and May 31, 2020. We offer our sympathy to their friends and families and honor them for their lifelong commitment to Tri Sigma.

ALPHA Elsie Stossel Upchurch

ALPHA OMICRON Brigitte Slack Rucker

ZETA Patricia Gillian Furness Elizabeth Kempkes Waclawek

ALPHA PI Sarah Gibson Writt

NU Wanda Smith Jacoby* OMICRON Nicole Dawn Currier Dorothy Demske King* CHI Barbara Gericke Cochran Pauline Pappas Harvey ALPHA GAMMA Martha Kissell Walters ALPHA DELTA Jeannette Cheuvreux Nolte* ALPHA EPSILON Jeanne Allender Moore* Jeanne Bahl Moyer* ALPHA ZETA Carley Ann McCord Earline Franks Smith Mary Warner Young ALPHA IOTA Carolyn McElroy Kamps Laurel Kelsey Wells

ALPHA RHO Christina Anne Berich ALPHA UPSILON Norma Proctor Lanier ALPHA TAU Margaret Rettew Benthall* ALPHA PHI Dixie Brace Neier Rose Wunderbaum Traines

ALPHA CHI Rose Wunderbaum Traines Sylvia Clark Puckett BETA BETA Jane Bareford Caughlan

BETA MU Veta Annette Moore Ryan* Maxine White Stiles* BETA XI Donna Sokol Johnson BETA RHO Muriel Phenix Armstrong BETA PHI Sondra Wylie Stansel GAMMA ZETA Candace Quinn Willkens GAMMA IOTA Betty Spigel Katz ZETA RHO Ellen Shevelin Smith * Indicates Golden Violet

BETA GAMMA Judith Prince Gilbert Joyce Unger Kellam BETA DELTA Edna Mason Snyder BETA EPSILON Tana Traube Clement

ALPHA MU Allison Ann Walters

BETA IOTA Charlene Kragness Schmeichel*

ALPHA XI Diane Rychtarik Hefty

BETA KAPPA Carol Osman Brown Susan Houk Dusold

the TRIANGLE | fall 2020 39

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