the phoenix of alpha sigma alpha; summer 2014

P HOENIXSummer 2014 | Volume 100

of

page 18 PANHELLENIC FROM THE START How a Delta Delta Delta helped shape Alpha Sigma Alpha

page 7

Membership snapshot

Congratulations new collegiate chapters!

Charter initiatesBrittany AdikesAlicia BallEmily BargabosBerenice BryantMegan CarrollJustine CaruselleAmelia CorbieAnna DellaRattaRegina FergusonRebecca FurboterChanelle GainesMargaret GanderApril GardnerNicole IslerJacqueline JordanShannon KennedyKaitlyn LaMonicaAlison LaPagliaMaegan LawrenceJenny LeLiana LeeAlexandra LodynskyCarla MarianJustine Martinez

Tracey MikulewiczCecilia MunozMegan O’LearyKelly PalombaAmanda ParkerElise RiffelElizabeth RiosLisa SayediTara ShaghafiGina SquicciariniErin StoneElizabeth SullivanNoelle TaddeoTeresa ToscanoBethany TurnerAriella VanCootenGillian VincentKasey Woodrick

Charter alumnae initiatesDaria ConeyTiffany LandonKathryn McGeeMercedes Trejo

Theta Chi Chapter, Methodist University, NC

Charter initiatesTrena AgeeEsra’a Al-ShawafiKristianna BaileySabrar BosleyShannon BrownKimberly Taylor BrownOriana ClaytonKasey ConleySierra EmanuelPatrícia FerreiraMorgan GehresKaitlynn GrayKyashia HarrisErika HenriksenIlisha HouschMegan JonesBrittany LewisMegan LordKortney MaggardCatherine Matthis

Amber MartinCrystal MansiErin McAuliffeAnn MixonAlexandria NanceKatherine NationLisa PaschalStephanie PerezMacaila PhillipsTaylor RossJenna SkinnerKayleen – Marie SmithlingAmanda TaylorGabbi TobiasCourtney WilliamsHeather Williams Charter alumnae initiateSusan Birch

Theta Phi Chapter, University of North Carolina-Pembroke

Charter initiatesMorgan ArnoldAndrina CorellaAlexis DawsonKatie DeitrickMary Katharine DudasJordan FarryJillian FlomPatience FortnerShykeisha GarnerAna GudielSummer HeathJa’Kayla HillRebecca JacksonAmanpreet KaurSimone LottMorgan MayseKamishia McAllisterLauren MetzgerMariam QambarSarah QambarKaitlyn Regi

Alejandra ReyesDebra SampsonCaitlyn SimkinKelly SpainhourMegan TillmanKayla Watson Charter new membersJessica DarnellKaitlyn DoublinDeja DykesMary FarwellBianca HaywoodMichela Morrison Tabitha PaxtonMorgan Pettigrew Skyla Pryor Charter alumnae initiateLeslie Hewett Lowery

Gamma Phi, Chapter, St. John’s University, NY

FEATURES

Cover story, page 18:

Panhellenic from the start – How a Delta Delta Delta helped shape Alpha Sigma Alpha

18

13

27PHOTO CREDIT: ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA

SUMMER 2014 CONTENTS

DEPARTMENTS

4 Editor’s desk

5 From the president

24 District news

27 ASA Foundation news

28 ASAPalms

30 News & events

31 From the ASA archives

32 Woman of poise and purpose

7 Membership snapshot

8 Gamma Phi Chapter returns to St. John’s University, NY

10 Theta Phi Chapter installed at University of North Carolina at Pembroke

13 Theta Chi Chapter installed at Methodist University, NC

16 District Day 2014-15 and Advisor Institute 2014-15

PHOTO CREDIT: ANDREA BIRCH, DI

PHOTO CREDIT: ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA ARCHIVES

COVER PHOTO CREDIT: ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA ARCHIVES

www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 3

Dear readers,Each morning I run through my same routine:

Alarm. Hit snooze. Alarm. Get up. Shower. Turn

on coffee maker. Watch local news. Dry hair. Put

on make-up. Do hair. Pick outfit. Make breakfast

and coffee. Leave house. Drive to work.

It is a routine that works to make the rest of my

day productive and meaningful. And though my routine is the same every

day, the fresh motivation it gives me to think while I drive to work about

all the goals I have is why I know it works.

I think about the goals I have and am currently on route to achieve. I

think about the goals I am still trying to understand. I think about the

reality of what I must sacrifice to stay on track.

I cherish this time I get each day to think about my future. This time

allows me to evaluate my priorities, my values and my road ahead.

Dream it.

The theme for this third installment of the 100-year anniversary of our

beloved magazine, the Phoenix, is the heart of what brings women to aspire,

seek and attain. We will dive into a modern interview with two women

who shaped the early evolution of Alpha Sigma Alpha and celebrate the

installation of two new chapters and re-establishment of a closed chapter.

I hope by the time you reach the back cover of this issue, you will take

a moment and think about what you dream about and how you plan to

get there.

Mizpah,

Katie Matis Smith, Phoenix Editor

Follow Katie on Twitter and Instagram @kmatis25

Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha (USPS 430-640) is

published quarterly by Alpha Sigma Alpha, 9002

Vincennes Circle, Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018.

Periodicals postage paid at Indianapolis, IN, and

additional mailing offices. Produced by Shelle Design

Inc., www.shelledesign.com. ©Alpha Sigma Alpha

Send address changes, death notices and business

correspondence to the national headquarters.

Address all editorial correspondence to the editor.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes (Form 3579) to

Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha, 9002 Vincennes Circle,

Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018. Printed in the USA.

DEADLINESWinter Sept. 10

Spring Dec. 10

Summer March 10

Fall June 10

EDITORKatie Matis Smith, DH

CONTRIBUTING EDITORNancy I.Z. Reese, BU

NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS9002 Vincennes Circle

Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018

Phone: (317) 871-2920

Fax: (317) 871-2924

Email: [email protected]

STAY CONNECTED

www.facebook.com/AlphaSigmaAlphaSorority

www.twitter.com/asaHQ

www.youtube.com/user/AlphaSigmaAlphaNHQ

www.pinterest.com/AlphaSigmaAlpha

www.instagram.com/AlphaSigmaAlpha

EDITOR’S DESK

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTSWe always welcome your comments—both

criticism and praise—about this publication. Email

[email protected] or send mail to:

Editor, Alpha Sigma Alpha

9002 Vincennes Circle

Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018

MyMy

Spring 2014 | Volume 100

Your journey in ASA!Your journey in ASA!

page 6

page 18

FillFillTOTODaysDays

“This is my creed...”

P HOENIXof

P HOENIXof

Volume 100, Number 3

4 Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Summer 2014

EDITOR’S DESK

What’s your dream for Alpha Sigma Alpha? Have you given it

much thought? You know what your present day experiences as

a collegiate or alumna member are, but have you given thought

to the Sorority’s future? What does Alpha Sigma Alpha look like

beyond your graduation, your next alumnae gathering or the

next Phoenix magazine?

Since 2000, the national council has been engaged in the creation

and execution of the Sorority’s strategic plan. Even before this time, a

long-range planning committee was “dreaming” our future. Through

this intentional strategic planning process, we dreamed our future, and

the future has arrived.

Today, the Sorority is 113 years of age. We are a larger organization; we

are financially stable; we have a national headquarters in Indianapolis

that was built to meet our needs; we have volunteer teams and a

professional headquarters staff; we have a successful counterpart in

the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation; we have a respected role within

the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC); we offer quality

national programming opportunities–and so much more!

So what’s left to dream about? More chapters, more volunteers,

more donors, cutting edge programming or an expanded national

headquarters? These things appear to be the expectation today

– rather than the dream. If every NPC organization offers these

opportunities or things, what makes Alpha Sigma Alpha special?

Perhaps our opportunity today is to evaluate how well we are fulfilling

the Founders’ dream for our Sorority. Certainly their thoughts

were not about endowments, national headquarters buildings,

volunteer structures or programming. Their dreams, auspicious

for the advancement of women, can be translated into rather

simple terms.

Founder Louise Cox Carper summed up Alpha Sigma Alpha’s

philosophy in this way: “The fundamental object of a sorority

is to cultivate those qualities which will help its members to meet

more successfully the events of life. A sorority is the training ground

for the cultivation of the act of living in harmony with other people.

Cooperation cannot be had where affection or trust is not. The first

duty of the sorority is then to nurture of the atmosphere of mutual

love and fellowship in common venture. Alpha Sigma Alpha has a

definite work to perform throughout the lives of its members and

through them a beneficial influence upon society at large.”

Let’s check ourselves today against Louise’s philosophy:

• Do we help members more successfully meet the events of life?

• Do we help members live in harmony with other people?

• Does our culture encourage cooperation?

• Does our culture encourage mutual love and fellowship?

• Does the Sorority, through its members, influence society

at large?

By your assessment, how are we doing? In the midst of membership

numbers, total chapters, technology enhancements and programmatic

opportunities, it’s wise to do a reality check against a founding

philosophy of the Sorority from a time when amenities and branding

didn’t yet exist, but the need to create a place for women to come

together to succeed did.

It is my dream, that Louise’s philosophy remains relevant for the

future Alpha Sigma Alpha. Without this, what truly do we have?

In Alpha Sigma Alpha,

Nora M. Ten Broeck

National President

Follow Nora on Twitter @ntenbroeck

BY NORA M. TEN BROECK, BK | NATIONAL PRESIDENT

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS

FROM THE PRESIDENT

What’s your dream?


save the date

• • • • • • • • • • • • Oct. 6-12, 2014 • • • • • • • • • • • •

HERE WE GROW AGAIN

ASA

save the date

in the USAin the USA

76,470total membership

MOST POPULOUS

LEAST POPULOUS

NEW COLLEGIATE CHAPTERS SINCE 2009

Theta Eta, Rogers State University, OK

Theta Kappa, Texas A&M University-Kingsville

Theta Iota, Oregon Institute of Technology

Theta Lambda, Frostburg State University, MD

Theta Mu, Valdosta State University, GA

Theta Nu, Knox College, IL

Theta Omicron, University of Missouri- Kansas City

Theta Xi, University of Texas at El Paso

Theta Pi, Utah Valley University

Theta Sigma, Southern Connecticut State University

Theta Rho, West Texas A&M University

Theta Tau, Capital University, OH

Theta Upsilon, Boise State University, ID

Theta Phi, University of North Carolina at Pembroke

Theta Chi, Methodist University, NC

NEW ALUMNAE CHAPTERS SINCE 2009

Austin, TX

Midnight Sun, AK

Greater Jacksonville, FL

Sun City, TX

Christmas City, PA

Lafayette, IN

Central Missouri

Oklahoma City

Northeast Ohio

West Michigan

CURRENT COLONIES Beta Kappa, Western Illinois University

UPCOMING COLONIES Delta Gamma, West Chester University, PA (Fall 2014)

Tau Tau, Fort Hayes State University, KS (Fall 2017)

Which states have the highest population of Alpha Sigma Alpha members?

plus 73 membersabroad!


In February 2014, Alpha Sigma Alpha welcomed back the

Gamma Phi Chapter at St. John’s University, NYIn February 2014, Alpha Sigma Alpha welcomed back the

Gamma Phi Chapter at St. John’s University, NY

By Danielle Davis, HH, leadership consultant

Friday, Jan. 31, 2014The “We are Ladybugs” reception was attended by local alumnae

members, members of the Gamma Clio Chapter at SUNY-Cortland

and members of the Theta Sigma Chapter at Southern Connecticut

State University. The women gathered to enjoy dessert and get to

know one another. They played ice breaker games and discussed their

excitement for re-installing the Gamma Phi Chapter the next day.

Saturday, Feb. 1, 2014The Sanctuary Degree Service and the Service for the Installation of a New Chapter

was held at the D’Angelo Student Center on the St. John’s University

campus. Local alumnae and collegians from the Gamma Clio Chapter,

Theta Sigma Chapter and Zeta Theta Chapter at Wagner College, NY,

served as sponsors for the new initiates.

The white luncheon gathered attendees together to celebrate the

installation of the new chapter and initiation of the Gamma Phi

Chapter members.

The installation banquet was held Saturday evening with family

and sisters joining the Gamma Phi Chapter to celebrate. The

keynote speaker was District 3 Advisory Board District Liaison

Chayna Wilson, EM, who challenged the women to be their own

superheroes. The evening ended with the unveiling of the charter.

Gamma Phi installation team Kelly McGinnis Morello, EK, vice president of finance

Lisa Stephenson, EE, membership growth coordinator

Kristine Plourde Golden, NN, District 2 district facilitator

Danielle Davis, HH, leadership consultant

Gamma Phi Chapter – now and thenThe Gamma Phi Chapter has a tremendous history at St. John’s

University. The chapter originally existed in 1969 and is home to

many significant Alpha Sigma Alpha alumnae.

Kappa Phi Beta, a local sorority that had a campus history of more

than 50 years, was the group that chose to affiliate with Alpha Sigma

Alpha. The local sorority was the oldest organization on campus.

Alumnae of Kappa Phi Beta showed an outpouring of support for

the women during the colonization process. A founding member

of the sorority even wrote to the colony.

CHAPTER INSTALLATION

Charter initiate Emily Bargabos with her mother at the installation banquet.


“Our hope is that the sisters…will remember the history of this group and will create its own

legend to include it. We continue to pray that…you will spread the spirit around, let the spirit

sound, and pass the spirit down so it will live through all the years to follow. We thank all

of you for doing just that.”

The support of the local sorority’s alumnae members made the

connection and transition with Alpha Sigma Alpha even stronger.

Culture of serviceMembers Emily Bargabos and April Gardner were chosen to participate

in the trip to Give Kids the World in spring 2014. Give Kids the

World is a 70-acre resort in Florida that is home to accommodations,

entertainment attractions, whimsical venues and fun specifically

designed for children with special needs and their families.

Each year, St. John’s University chooses eight members of the fraternal

community to visit the Give Kids the World village during spring break.

Emily and April brought it back to the creed to explain their experience.

To love life and joyously live each day to its ultimate good.

“This is something I saw in the Wish children and their families each

day,” said Emily. “They were effortlessly living each day to its ultimate

good and unconditionally loving and appreciating the life they were

given despite their hardships.”

April and Emily felt that this experience of giving their time and service

to these families gave them back so much more than they expected.

At the end of each day the group from St. John’s University would

reflect upon their experiences that day, which was an emotional time.

These sisters were able to support each other, as well as the other

members of the fraternal community. The unified atmosphere was

something they had never seen before, and they believed this group

of individuals were all destined to experience this together.

Campus influenceAlpha Sigma Alpha members are known for their involvement

in other campus organizations, especially student government. • Senior Emily Bargabos served as the student government

treasurer and is also a part of the student affairs committee.

This committee plans American Cancer Society Relay for Life

and other charitable events.

• Senior Maggie Gander was a member of the school spirit

committee, a committee where she helped put on events such as

St. John’s Festival and athletic event pep rallies.

• Sophomore April Gardner is the sophomore representative for

the college in student government.

• Sophomore Caroline Zottl is currently the vice president of the

student government association.

“With this honor I hope to incorporate my Alpha Sigma Alpha values,

in particular responsibility and learning,” says Caroline. “I will also be

called upon to balance the new professional aspects of my life, with the

social, intellectual, spiritual and physical aspects of my life.”

GAMMA PHI FUN FACTS Charter initiate April Gardner was recognized as St. John’s

University “Sorority Woman of the Year” for 2014.

The chapter received the “Change and Innovation Award.”

The chapter won “Sorority of the Year” in 2013 before they

affiliated with Alpha Sigma Alpha.

The Gamma Phi Chapter had the highest GPA of the

fraternal organizations.

Charter initiates are from New York, Connecticut,

Pennsylvania, Texas, California, Nevada, Virginia, Maryland

and Trinidad and Tobago.

The D’Angelo Student Center at St. John’s University is

named after an Alpha Sigma Alpha alumna, Peggy D’Angelo,

and her husband.

The chapter raised more than $2,500 for Relay for Life.

Charter initiate Cecilia Munoz was recognized as St. John’s

University’s “Sorority Woman of the Year” in 2013.

Charter initiate Justine Caruselle is a recipient of an Alpha

Sigma Alpha scholarship to the Undergraduate Interfraternity

Institute (UIFI).

Charter initiate Erin Stone received a spring break service grant

to the S. June Smith Center in spring 2014.

Installation gifts and donations sponsored by:Vice President of Finance Kim Benson, DN-B; Past National President Diane James, HH; Chayna Wilson, EM; Zeta Zeta Chapter, University of Central Missouri; Washington, DC, Alumnae Chapter

Charter initiates celebrate the return of Gamma Phi Chapter.


In March 2014, Alpha Sigma Alpha installed the

Theta Phi Chapter at University of North Carolina at Pembroke

Saturday, March 15, 2014:The Sanctuary Degree, the Service for Installation of a New Chapter and the

Service for the Installation of Collegiate Chapter Officers started off the day at

the Holiday Inn in Lumberton, NC. Members of Theta Gamma

Chapter from Christopher Newport University, VA, and area

alumnae served as sponsors for the women being initiated.

The white luncheon gathered members of Alpha Sigma Alpha in

celebration of the newly installed Theta Phi Chapter. District 4

District Facilitator Kathleen Burns Swatt, ΘB, served as the mistress

of ceremonies for the luncheon. Members were presented with

membership certificates, and initiates and new members alike

were presented with phoenix recognition pins as symbols of their

accomplishment of being a founding member of Theta Phi Chapter.

The installation banquet was held Saturday evening with family,

friends and sisters joining the Theta Phi Chapter members.

Leadership Consultant Jordan Huntze served as the toast mistress for

the banquet. The keynote speaker for the evening was Past National

President Cindy Kelley, BΠ, who encouraged the women of Theta Phi

to enjoy the relationships formed in Alpha Sigma Alpha, but to more

importantly remember to lead, to serve and to make a difference.

Members were presented with the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation

charter member dangle, and alumnae made toasts in honor of the

Theta Phi Chapter. The evening reached its pinnacle with the

official unveiling of the charter by National President Nora Ten

Broeck and Theta Phi Chapter president Rebecca Jackson.

Theta Phi installation team Nora M. Ten Broeck, BK, national president


Kathleen Burns Swatt, ΘB, District 4 district facilitator

Jordan Huntze, BΛ, leadership consultant

Farmville FourIn 1901, when a group of five close friends were extended bids to

three different sororities at the State Female Normal School (now

Longwood University) in Farmville, VA, they decided to instead

cement their friendship forever by forming an entirely new sorority.

After Alpha Sigma Alpha was founded, these four sororities, all

founded at the school, became known as the Farmville Four.

When Alpha Sigma Alpha decided to colonize at the University

of North Carolina at Pembroke, Zeta Tau Alpha, Kappa Delta

and Sigma Sigma Sigma already had chapters on campus. The

university is now the only one in the nation that has the Farmville

Four and only the Farmville Four.

Just as our five founders decided to take the chance to create

something new on their campus, the charter members of the

Theta Phi Chapter made the same decision when choosing to

join Alpha Sigma Alpha.

On Leadership Consultant Jordan Huntze’s very first day on campus,

a young woman named Kamishia McAllister ran up to her, extended


By Jordan Huntze, BΛ, leadership consultant


her hand, introduced herself and proclaimed, “I have been waiting

for two years for Alpha Sigma Alpha to get here. I cannot wait

for the opportunity to be a founding member of this incredible

organization.” Kamishia did indeed become a founding member, as

did several other seniors who had been waiting for this opportunity.

Senior and charter initiate Debra Sampson was adamant that she

would never join a sorority, but when a friend dragged her to an

informational presentation about Alpha Sigma Alpha, she quickly

changed her tune.

“During the Sanctuary Degree I felt an overwhelming sense of pride,

respect and joy as I became an official member of Alpha Sigma Alpha.

When I signed my name I knew I wasn’t just signing my name to some-

thing as simple as an exam or a school loan. I knew that I was adding my

name to a long list of women who have devoted their lives to not only

making themselves better but also to making this world a better place.”

Leslie Hewett Lowery, ΘF, chapter advisor and alumna initiateAlpha Sigma Alpha relies heavily on the efforts of alumnae and

dedicated volunteers to ensure that our collegiate chapters have the

resources and support they need to succeed. The Theta Phi Chapter

was fortunate enough to find this support and unwavering devotion

in an expected form—in an alumna of another sorority. Leslie Hewett

Lowery, ΘF, was a member of the local sorority Theta Kappa during

her time as an undergraduate.

When she heard about Alpha Sigma Alpha joining the Panhellenic

community she saw it as a chance to give back to an experience that

had impacted her life and to promote growth and service in her

community. “As the chapter advisor for Theta Phi, I have enjoyed

getting to know the women and line up philanthropy opportunities

for them as well as assist them with meetings and programming.

We have a very diverse group of young women in our chapter who

should be successful on this campus because of their unique

personalities and the values that are the foundation of Alpha

Sigma Alpha.” Leslie has been an invaluable asset to the chapter

connecting them to the local community and helping to recruit

other advisors to the chapter’s advisory board.

Leslie has worked in North Carolina public schools for the past 20

years and is currently the positive behavior intervention and support

coordinator for Public Schools of Robeson County. She is married to

Johnny Lowery and is the mother of three young boys. As an alumna

initiate, she hopes to help establish an alumnae chapter in southeastern

North Carolina. “My alumnae initiation was a very special day for me,

not only because it was the installation of the whole chapter but because

I was able to share in the excitement with the women, reconnect with

the awesome alumnae I met at D4 District Day and meet some of the

parents of the sisters in the Theta Phi Chapter.”

Summer Heath, cupcake versus cancerDuring a colony meeting in the fall of 2013, the members of the

colony were going around the room sharing their “highs and lows”

from the previous week. When it was new member Summer Heath’s

turn to share, she could hardly contain her joy. She shared that she

had received two incredible phone calls that past Friday. One was

from Leadership Consultant Jordan Huntze, BΛ, offering her an

invitation to join Alpha Sigma Alpha. The other phone call was from

her doctor telling her that her scans had come back showing that her

cancer had not spread. Summer was diagnosed with a rare form of

eye cancer known as ocular melanoma on July 1, 2013, at age 19.

Charter initiate Alexis Dawson at the installation banquet.

Theta Phi Chapter charter initiates Mariam Qambar, Aman Kuar, Sarah Qambar and Alexandra Reyes with their membership certificates.


Ocular melanoma is known for spreading to other organs of the body

and, according to genetic testing, Summer’s doctors told her she has

an 80 percent chance of this happening. While radiation treatments

were successful and the tumor has not metastasized to any other

parts of her body, Summer has lost vision in her left eye, and she

undergoes full-body scans and physicals every three months.

“After being diagnosed I was in shock. Hearing I had cancer was

tough, but saying it for the first time was much worse.” When

Summer’s new sisters heard that one of their own was battling

cancer, they rallied around her to support her. With the help

of her sisters, Summer hosted a three-day campaign on campus

called “A Selfie for a Cause” where she asked fellow students to take

a “selfie” while wearing an eye patch to raise awareness for ocular

melanoma. The event was a huge success as Summer was able to

educate her peers on the disease as well as give them a chance to

see the world as she views it. Summer says, “I have felt support

from my sisters in so many ways. They will do anything to help me,

whether it is helping make posters for my awareness campaigns

or taking me to the doctors when I am not able to drive or simply

sending me inspirational texts to brighten my day. I couldn’t

continue on without all the various forms of support and

knowing I can talk to any of them about it.

“My Alpha Sigma Alpha big sister has been amazing because she has

a brain tumor, so we have a connection that not a lot of people can

understand. She and another sister bought me a necklace that says

‘no one fights alone’ and presented it to me during a chapter meeting.

These two walked on either side of me during the survivor lap at Relay

for Life on campus. It is the many small gestures that really inspire me

to keep fighting. It is the support of those around me that reminds me

that I was given this for a reason. I can’t give up.”

THETA PHI FUN FACTS Charter initiate Mary Katharine Dudas attended Alpha

Sigma Alpha’s Service Immersion Experience to Oahu, HI,

in May 2014.

Charter initiates are from North Carolina, New York,

Washington, DC, and Kuwait.

UNC-Pembroke is one of 17 schools in the University of North

Carolina system.

Theta Phi Chapter won both the Homecoming Week and the

Greek Week competitions.

Theta Phi Chapter was recognized with the Service Award and

the Public Relations Award by the fraternal community.

Charter initiate Caitlyn Simkin is a senior airman and an

ophthalmic technician in the United States Air Force Reserves.

Charter initiates Sarah Qambar and Mariam Qambar are

identical twins who were born in Kuwait.

Theta Phi Chapter was installed just two weeks before the Theta

Chi Chapter at Methodist University, NC, which is only 45

minutes away from UNC-Pembroke.


Installation gifts and donations sponsored by:Past National President Diane James, HH; Zeta Psi Chapter, Loras College, IA; Zeta Mu Chapter, Missouri Western State University; Tidewater Alumnae Chapter, VA



In March 2014, Alpha Sigma Alpha installed the

Theta Chi Chapter at Methodist University, NC

By Andrea Birch, DI, leadership consultant

Saturday, March 29, 2014The Sanctuary Degree Service and the Service for Installation of a New Chapter

kicked off the day at Gardners United Methodist Church in

Fayetteville, NC. Members of the Theta Phi Chapter from

University of North Carolina at Pembroke served as sponsors

for the new members.

The white luncheon followed the event to celebrate the installation

of the Theta Chi Chapter.

Later in the evening, the installation banquet was held in the

Berns Student Center at Methodist University. Family, friends

and faculty members joined the sisters of Alpha Sigma Alpha.

University President Dr. Ben Hancock was the keynote speaker and

talked about the benefit of fraternity and sorority life. Both Director

of Campus Life Doris Munoz and Assistant Director of Campus

Life Ryan Bowyer made remarks to honor the chapter as well. Right

before the closing of the event, the chapter was presented with their

charter from National President Nora Ten Broeck.

Theta Chi installation team Nora M. Ten Broeck, BK, national president


Kathleen Burns Swatt, ΘB, District 4 district facilitator

Nikki Kawalec, ZU, volunteer management team leader

Andrea Birch, DI, leadership consultant

Mother, daughter and sisters for lifeLeadership Consultant Andrea Birch visited various Alpha Sigma

Alpha chapters last fall. She began working with the newest colony

at Methodist University in January 2014. Throughout her journey,

Andrea often called her mom, Sue Birch, to tell her about all of the

women she met. However, one of the mother-daughter phone calls

stood out from the rest.

Leadership Consultant Andrea Birch, DI, with her mother, Sue Birch, Theta Chi Chapter alumna initiate


“I told my mom that I wanted her to become a member of Alpha

Sigma Alpha,” said Andrea. “And I told her I wanted her to be

initiated with the Methodist Colony.”

As Andrea talked more about Alpha Sigma Alpha and the sorority

experience, Sue was thrilled about this opportunity.

“I was ecstatic,” exclaimed Sue. “I never knew there was an option

for me to join a sorority at this point in my life.”

Sue Birch is an occupational therapist and works with children with

autism and various special needs. As she approaches retirement, she

aspires to continue to work with children with disabilities.

“When I heard about Alpha Sigma Alpha’s partnerships with the

Special Olympics and the S. June Smith Center, I was thrilled

to have more connections to volunteer opportunities that are

near and dear to my heart. This sorority seemed like a perfect

fit for me.”

Sue attended the Sanctuary Degree Service with the women of the

Methodist Colony. She felt privileged to be a charter alumna

initiate. The ceremony was emotional for everyone in the

sanctuary at Gardners United Methodist Church that morning.

“As Andrea pinned her mom, we were all blinking tears back,”

said charter initiate Erika Henriksen.

March 29, 2014, is a day that Sue will never forget.

“After being a part of the whole installation weekend and getting to

meet so many wonderful women, I feel so blessed to be welcomed

into this beautiful sisterhood!”

Not four years, but for lifeAs the Theta Chi Chapter was forming in January 2014, they were

very fortunate to immediately connect with local alumnae. Several

passionate Alpha Sigma Alpha women have been supporting the

group through their colonization journey. Cindy Kelley, BP,

past national president, Erin Maurer, EΘ and Mary Neale Marler,

BE were all instrumental in coaching and motivating the group of

women at Methodist University.

Mary Neale Marler of Hope Mills, NC, joined the Beta Epsilon

Chapter of Alpha Sigma Alpha at Madison College (now James

Madison University) in the fall of 1959. Five years after she

graduated, approximately 10 of her chapter sisters started

using an inventive way to keep in touch with each other.

From 1967 until today, Mary and her chapter sisters have

continued to communicate by writing letters. They use a

chain-letter system: upon receiving the group of letters, each

woman adds a new note to the batch and takes out her old one.

“We call it the gang letter. I always get so excited when the gang

letter finally makes it to my mailbox,” explained Mary. “That’s

how I’ve kept up with my sisters’ marriages, children, jobs,

grandchildren… you name it! It is still important for us to

keep up even when we live far apart and our college days are

far behind us.”


Charter initiate Taylor Brown with National President Nora M. Ten Broeck.


Outside of keeping in touch with some chapter sisters, Mary has not

been involved with Alpha Sigma Alpha since she graduated in 1962.

When she heard about the colony coming to Methodist University, she

jumped at the opportunity to help. Upon meeting the new members

in January 2014, Mary gave each new member a home-made red and

white bracelet and explained the importance of lifetime commitment

in Alpha Sigma Alpha.

“The moment that Mary told us she still keeps up with her sorority

sisters was when I realized that this organization was much more than

a club I would be involved in during college,” charter initiate Shannon

Brown explained. “This organization will definitely benefit me for life.”

“I’m so happy that Mary came to us,” said charter initiate Ilisha Housh.

“She is such a sweet woman, and we are beyond blessed to have her as

an advisor.”

THETA CHI FUN FACTS Alpha Sigma Alpha is the second Panhellenic group to join the

Greek community at Methodist University, joining Alpha Delta Pi.

Charter initiates are from North Carolina, Virginia,

Massachusetts, Ohio, Washington, DC, Florida, Connecticut,

Arizona, Portugal, Alberta and Yemen.

Alpha Sigma Alpha is the most culturally diverse fraternal

organization at Methodist University.

Nearly 50 percent of the charter initiates are student athletes.

Alpha Sigma Alpha received its charter faster than any other

fraternal organization in Methodist University history.

Ten of the charter initiates have gone on service trips in the past

year to various locations including Guatemala, Nicaragua, Ecuador

and Haiti.

Charter initiates are involved in extracurricular activities including

student government, peer mentors, residence life, chemistry club,

biology club, student activities committee, fellowship of Christian

athletes, women’s Bible study and many more.

Charter initiate Taylor Ross was crowned Greek Goddess during

Methodist University’s fraternity/sorority week.

Installation gifts and donations sponsored by: Past National President Diane James, HH; Zeta Phi Chapter, Illinois Institute of Technology; Tidewater Alumnae Chapter, VA; Washington, DC, Alumnae Chapter

Charter members Kyashia Harris and Esra’a Al-Shawafi posing with National President Nora M. Ten Broeck at the white luncheon.


This year’s District Day theme is inspired by the Ritual of Alpha Sigma Alpha.

“You are to make strict demands of yourselves. You must be prudent and steadfast in defending the ideals to which you stand pledged. Your charge now is to prove that the confidence that has been placed in you is deserved. If your allegiance is undivided, if your loyalty is true and constant, then you will be a distinct contribution: an energizing influence in every phase of endeavor.”

We are thrilled to announce that we are partnering with CAMPUSPEAK and Dr. Jeff Belkora to bring “The Science of Smart Decisions” to District Day.

JobBoundAlpha Sigma Alpha is excited to continue partnering with JobBound Training Solutions, to provide exceptional workshops and resources for juniors, seniors and alumnae. There will be two different workshops offered during the afternoon educational sessions of District Day 2014-15: “Rocking your resume!” and “Crushing your interview!”

Registration opens Aug. 1.

Register soon!Registration will be available in August 2014. Alumnae register at www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org. Collegiate chapters register on the Officer Portal.

Regular registration - $50 per personLate registration - $60 per person Onsite registration - $80 per person

District Day District Day

SAVE THE DATE!District 2 - Nov. 1, 2014 - Philadelphia

District 3 - Nov. 8, 2014 - Pittsburgh

District 4 - Feb. 7, 2015 - Richmond, VA

District 5 - March 28, 2015 - Fort Wayne, IN

District 6 - Jan. 31, 2015 - Memphis, TN

District 7 - March 7, 2015 - Dallas

District 8 - Nov. 15, 2014 - Milwaukee

District 9 - Feb. 21, 2015 - Kansas City, MO

2014-152014-15


District Day District Day

Alpha Sigma Alpha is partnering with Growth Guiders LLC for a second year to offer the 2014-15

Advisor Institute.

More than 80 advisors benefited from the institute in 2013-14.

“I have learned a lot about different types of conflict management and behavior styles that have helped me to identify various needs for each of the women in the chapter, as well as in my personal life/job.” “It was extremely well done. A lot of research went into the planning of this presentation, and I appreciate the time and effort.” - 2013-14 Advisor Institute participants

Sneak peek at what Alpha Sigma Alpha and Growth Guiders LLC has in store for 2014-15: • Block 1: Increasing the advisor’s sense of self-awareness as it relates to their

approach, style and mindset when working with collegians and other volunteers.

• Block 2: Focus on relationships and environment that will push and/or pull

the advisor in and out of her comfort zone.

• Block 3: Fostering accountability by focusing on the concepts of ritual, respectful

relationships, a conflict resolution model and an accountability model.

Did you know all collegiate chapters are reimbursed for

two advisors to attend the program? Take advantage

of this opportunity to enhance your collegiate and

volunteer experience. Plan ahead to travel with fellow advisors and incorporate

this into your annual training programs.

COST AND REGISTRATION

Registration opens

August 2014

Regular registration - $50/person

Registration is reimbursed for two

advisors per chapter following

the Advisor Institute.

Late registration - $60/person

On-site registration - $80/person

DATES

The Advisor Institute will

continue to run concurrently

with the District Days events

District 2 - Nov. 1, 2014 - Philadelphia

District 3 - Nov. 8, 2014 - Pittsburgh

District 4 - Feb. 7, 2015 - Richmond, VA

District 5 - March 28, 2015 - Fort Wayne, IN

District 6 - Jan. 31, 2015 - Memphis, TN

District 7 - March 7, 2015 - Dallas

District 8 - Nov. 15, 2014 - Milwaukee

District 9 - Feb. 21, 2015 - Kansas City, MO

self-awareness

relationships & foste

ring

environm

ent accoun

tabi

lity

ADVISOR INSTITUTE

Advisor Institute 2014-15


FEATURE

{18 Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Summer 2014

{ }PANHELLENICFROM THEPANHELLENICFROM THEstart

How a Delta Delta Delta helped shape Alpha Sigma Alpha

An interview with the women who led the evolution of Alpha Sigma Alpha

BY MARIANNE BUSCH BULLOCK, BΘ, PAST NATIONAL PRESIDENT AND SUE ZORICHAK, BB, EDITOR OF “THE YEARS BEHIND US:

A HISTORY OF ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA 1901-2001”


FEATURE

How many times have we seen this quote from the Sept. 16, 1916, Phoenix

magazine? Like so many other elements of our sisterhood, these words

frame our history and helped form the Sorority. But who wrote it?

Alpha Sigma Alpha history buffs know that Ida Shaw Martin served as our

national president from our reorganization in 1914 until 1930. She also edited

the Phoenix from 1914 until 1920. But beyond those who take the time to study our

roots, not many know that Ida also founded Delta Delta Delta Fraternity in 1888

when she was known as Sarah Ida Shaw, a 21-year-old junior at Boston University.

Pearl knows. And Pearl believes that Ida wrote those famous lines in that

early Phoenix.

Pearl returns to interview arguably the two most influential figures in the

Sorority’s early years: Ida Shaw Martin and Wilma Wilson Sharp, ZZ,

president emerita.

Ida was a commanding and authoritative presence in the fraternal community,

and Wilma was known for her skilled leadership and gentle nature. Based on what

we know from their influence, writings and the comments of those who worked

with them, they could not have been more different. But each, in her own way,

was instrumental in helping steer Alpha Sigma Alpha to where it is today.

As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that we would not have survived without

Ida and that we could not survive with her.

“YOU ARE A MEMBER OF A STRONG SORORITY, ONE THAT RANKS WITH THE BEST IN THE COUNTRY. LIVE IT, TALK IT, DREAM IT, WORK FOR IT. IN NO OTHER WAY CAN YOU SO EFFECTIVELY CONVINCE OTHERS OF ITS BEAUTY, ITS GREATNESS AND ITS POWER.”

WE FIRST MET PEARL

IN “THE YEARS BEHIND

US: A HISTORY OF

ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA

1901-2001.” THE “EVERY

MEMBER” WHO MAKES

A DIFFERENCE, PEARL

INTRODUCED READERS

TO THE VARIOUS

CHAPTERS IN THE

SORORITY’S 100-

YEAR HISTORY.

meet Pearl


Pearl: Mrs. Martin, when and how did you become involved with Alpha Sigma Alpha?ISM: I graduated Phi Beta Kappa from

Boston University in 1889 and served as

Tri Delta’s grand president from that year

until 1893. During the 1904-05 school

year, I sent my first communication to Alpha

Chapter. I was well-known in the fraternity

world as editor of the Sorority Handbook,

first published in 1907 with a copyright of

1905. I explain the time lag in the handbook’s

preface: “The writer had intended to send

her manuscript to press a year sooner, but

was hindered by serious illness.”

Pearl: Even though you founded Delta Delta Delta, were you also a member of Alpha Sigma Alpha? ISM: In a way, yes. I continued to counsel

Alpha Sigma Alpha during the next nine

years. Near the end of this period, 1912-

14, I charted a new course for Alpha Sigma

Alpha when the Sorority nearly fell into

nonexistence. In 1913, I was elected to

Alpha Sigma Alpha honorary membership.

At the reorganizational convention of 1914,

members elected me as national president,

and I served in this capacity until 1930.

Along the way, I created the chapter naming

system, authored the ritual, constitution and

bylaws and supported the bankrupt sorority

with my own funds. I also created the Phoenix

and served as its editor from 1914 to 1919.

During this period, I also served as the first

chairman of the Association of Pedagogical

Sororities from 1915 to 1917.

Pearl: Mrs. Martin, we know that while you were our national president, you rewrote our ritual. Where did you get your inspiration for that? ISM: I’d like to say that I copied and pasted

it from the first edition of the Sorority

Handbook, which you know I authored. Good

ideas are meant to be reused. If you look on

Page 51 of that first edition in 1907, you can

read for yourself where that inspiration came

from: “According to the popular idea, self-

confidence is the only requisite for leadership,

but he who would be master over others must

first be master over himself. Self-control is

likewise indispensible. …

“Christ’s message to the world was the beauty

of service, the sacredness of leadership.

There were many tones in that harmonious

Life, but the key-note was self-sacrifice.

Self-sacrifice recognizes the need for

responsibility. Self-sacrifice recognizes the

need for patience. Self-sacrifice recognizes

the need for sympathy. Self-confidence,

then, is creative, self-control restrictive,

self-sacrifice persuasive. Leadership that

possesses all three qualities cannot fail to

bring success with honor and peace.”

The point I was making is that a strong

leader can be counted on at all times.

These words became part of Alpha Sigma

Alpha’s culture when we started working

together, and members demonstrate

this in their communities daily.

Pearl: Did you have a role in changing our original badge which we used from 1901 to 1903 to the diamond shape that identifies our members today?ISM: If you know your history, then you

know that I did not have anything to do with

that. During the 1903-04 school year, the

members themselves changed the badge to its

current shape, because they believed that the

shield version “was not quite dignified.”

Plus, I didn’t contact your Alpha Chapter

until the 1904-05 school-year.

Pearl: Getting back to the 1907 edition of the Sorority Handbook, it says that our colors were crimson and gray and that our flower was the American Beauty rose. Did you have a say in changing the colors and flowers to what they are today?ISM: I see that I am getting blamed for that

too. The truth is, at your 1909 convention

in Natural Bridge, VA, members changed

the Sorority’s flower from white carnation

to American Beauty rose and the jewel from

emerald to ruby “to harmonize with the colors.”

I do not know when the American Beauty rose

was dropped as the Sorority’s flower.

I will say, though, that after the 1914 national

convention in Miami, OH, we decided

that as a result of a national council study,

the aster and the narcissus would be more

appropriate to the Sorority’s ritualistic plan

than the chrysanthemum and daffodil.

Strategy for extension: The Association

of Educational Sororities

Pearl: Please tell us about the Association of Educational Sororities (AES) and Alpha Sigma Alpha’s involvement. ISM: At the time of the reorganization

in 1914, Alpha Sigma Alpha had been

floundering because of its young

leadership, lack of finances and

anti-fraternal sentiment on

many campuses. In fact,

Lina Wakefield

Mattison Mahon, G, your

national president from 1908

to1912, believed that negotiations were

almost complete for Alpha Sigma Alpha

to be acquired by Delta Delta Delta when

she stepped down as national president.

Obviously, that did not occur, and I felt

that Alpha Sigma Alpha could not compete

on larger campuses. Strategically, the Sorority

decided to focus on establishing chapters in

what were then called “normal schools,”

which were essentially teachers colleges.

Pearl: It seems a little too coincidental that, when you took over in 1914, you chose as our jewel the pearl. ISM: Very astute, Pearl. Yes, that’s also Delta

Delta Delta’s jewel. On the Tri Delta website,

you can read that “The pearl is the jewel

of Tri Delta. It was chosen to symbolize the

new member, because it is the one jewel that

grows, developing from a tiny grain of sand

into a thing of great value and beauty.”


FEATURE

Pearl: But the crests of the two sororities are also remarkably similar, and you created them both around the time of our reorganization. Were you in fact positioning Alpha Sigma Alpha to be acquired by Tri Delta? After all, using similar symbols would ease the transition for members who might one day change their sorority affiliation.ISM: Well, you must admit that it would have

helped the cause. But getting back to your

main question about AES: I corresponded

with Sigma Sigma Sigma with the idea of

securing uniformity of standards in matters

of common interest. The two groups

deferred to my experience and leadership

and prevailed upon me to be chairman of

AES, which was founded in 1915.

After closing your Alpha and Alpha

Gamma chapters, Alpha Sigma Alpha

limited membership to women attending

four-year teachers colleges and encouraged

other AES members to do the same. The

strategy led to 41 chapters being installed

from 1919 to 1947.

Pearl: Given the apparent success of that strategy, why did the sorority withdraw from AES in 1929?ISM: It seems that the members did not

like or appreciate how I chose to run things.

Tensions began to build and finally boiled

over in 1930. Ironically, the 1930 national

convention in Boston, where I lived, was the

first convention I actually attended. It ended

up also being my last.

On June 30, as the convention was about to

convene, one could say that I refused to meet to

discuss the issues. To protect my interests, I even

hired plain-clothed policemen to barricade

the convention meeting rooms. Members who

didn’t side with me eventually secured a new

room, and their first order of business was to

nominate and elect Wilma Wilson Sharp, ZZ,

to serve as national president.

Mrs. Martin died May 11, 1940. She was inducted into

the Fraternity Hall of Fame in 1976.

Pearl: Mrs. Sharp, can you comment on our withdrawal from AES?WWS: The Sorority withdrew from AES

in May 1929 without consent of national

council or the vote of the collegiate chapters.

Our members were not aware that the

presidents of the Association of Teachers

Colleges (ATC) were raising questions about

educational sororities in general and Alpha

Sigma Alpha in particular.

At their May 1929 ATC meeting, 21 of the

presidents from the 23 schools where Alpha

Sigma Alpha had chapters signed a request

for these chapters to investigate the sorority’s

administration because of their concerns

about finances and autocratic control under

Ida’s leadership.

Pearl: What was our response to that?WWS: These concerns led directly to the

events at the 1930 convention. Faced

with the possibility of our chapters being

banned from campuses, Alpha Sigma

Alpha members wrested control from

Mrs. Martin. That’s when I was elected

president. The account in our 100-year

history truly portrays the drama, intrigue

and intimidating atmosphere at that event.

Imagine having plain-clothed policemen

barricading rooms at convention.

Pearl: Yes, it is quite the story. After your election as national president in 1930, what was your primary focus? WWS: We had quite a task ahead of us,

but the national council’s first concern

was sorority administration. We faced the

closure of 15-year-old Delta Delta Chapter

at Ohio University, because all groups on

Wilma Wilson SharpWilma Wilson Sharp


campus were urged by the dean of

women to “give up their chapters and

become NPC groups by petition or

amalgamation.” Economic conditions

during the Depression and increased

training demanded by education

departments made competition for

members too difficult on campuses where

NPC groups also recruited members.

Holding dual membership was a financial

strain for young women, and AES member

organizations suffered. That was another

threat to the survival of Alpha Sigma Alpha.

Pearl: Mercy. What happened to that chapter?WWS: The Delta Delta girls felt that their

sorority was Alpha Sigma Alpha and refused

to take action as a group, although it was

necessary to cease existence as an Alpha

Sigma Alpha chapter. Upon the invitation

of Phi Mu, part of the membership affiliated

with that group but remained loyal to Alpha

Sigma Alpha as members.

Pearl: Is it true that we lost the names of our Founders during Ida’s years as president?WWS: Sadly, yes. But during the 1932

national convention in Estes Park, CO,

I had the pleasure of announcing those

names. Another exciting development

during that convention was the increasing

effort to reclaim our Alpha Chapter, which

had existed as the local Delta Sigma Chi

since 1919. In January 1933, we received

a petition for reinstatement from Delta

Sigma Chi and reinstalled that group as

Alpha Chapter during the weekend of

May 19-21, 1933.

A new strategy: membership in the

National Panhellenic Conference

Pearl: So what did you do to help ensure the sorority’s survival?WWS: In 1935, Alpha Sigma Alpha shaped

her course so that, in a changing and critical

educational world, we had a valuable and

unquestionable contribution to make to

the development of our members. The

Sorority worked to ensure and then enlarge

its sphere. Two years later, AES and the

National Panhellenic Conference (NPC)

met, and NPC agreed not to compete

in the AES market and to establish a

cooperative, nongoverning relationship

with the professional organizations.

Then in 1947, Alpha Sigma Alpha, Alpha

Sigma Tau and Sigma Sigma Sigma became

provisional members of NPC after the

nostalgic dissolution of AES was mutually

agreed upon. We made this bold move

along with the leadership of Maude E.

Hill, Alpha Sigma Tau, and Mabel Lee

Walton, Sigma Sigma Sigma.

Pearl: Were there other effects of this decision?WWS: The decision meant that Alpha Sigma

Alpha would need to have chapters only

at Association of American Universities

accredited campuses, which led to the

closure of Gamma Gamma, Beta Gamma,

Beta Eta and Beta Xi Chapters, because they

were not able to meet the standards by the

deadline. We eventually reinstated those

chapters in 1949.

In addition, members could no longer hold

dual membership in Alpha Sigma Alpha

and another NPC member organization.

We don’t know how many members gave

up their Alpha Sigma Alpha membership

during the transition, but by joining NPC,

we secured our future in the broader

sorority movement.

Pearl: When did the sorority gain full membership in NPC?WWS: Now dear, all Alpha Sigma Alphas

should know that in 1951, NPC admitted

us, Alpha Sigma Tau and Sigma Sigma

Sigma to full membership, along with

Alpha Epsilon Phi, Theta Phi Alpha, Phi

Sigma Sigma, Sigma Delta Tau and Delta

Phi Epsilon. These groups, along with 18

others, comprise the total membership

of NPC today.

I was honored to serve as our first NPC

delegate, holding office from 1947 to 1957.

Pearl: Mrs. Sharp, can you tell us about the societal role of Alpha Sigma Alpha?WWS: The day after the horrendous attack

on Pearl Harbor Dec. 7, 1941, the United

States declaration of World War II came

over the air waves as I was sitting at my

desk trying to do routine office work

for the Sorority. I could do no less

than turn to the thing at hand—my

own tasks.

Love reaches out with stronger bonds

during times of anxiety and trouble, and

this is what our members do for each other

and for the larger community. Alpha Sigma

Alpha must always encourage members to

courageously and faithfully keep to their

work and lives. The discipline that results

from a self-imposed calmness and the

personal preparedness that comes from

an inner courage and stability allows our

members to serve whenever or wherever

they are called.

Pearl: Finally, what would you say are your most enduring legacies to the Sorority?WWS: I really love the beautiful and

inspirational memorial service, which is

still used to honor deceased members.

But I must admit that another piece of

my writing, The Creed of Alpha Sigma Alpha,

is my most visual and perhaps most long-

lasting contribution to the Sorority.

Mrs. Sharp died July 16, 1988, at age 88 in

Overland Park, KS.


1. The Beta Iota Chapter, Radford University,

VA, volunteered at the local Special Olympics

basketball tournament. The chapter was

assigned two teams to work with and cheer

for, and the athletes responded positively

as we cheered them on and stuck around

to say congratulations to them at the end.

Back row from left to right: Emily Moore,

Sydney Slaughter, Hannah Shaffer, Christin

Lawrence, Ashton Cox, Laura Peterson,

Jennifer Lucas, Colleen Gillooly, Haley

Goins, Alice Wren, Linnea Markson.

Middle row: Elizabeth Cragg, Anna

Pankow, Breana Hobbs, Andrea Van

Kerckhove, Vannika You, Courtney

Hairston, Kelly McMullen, Mary LaVacca,

Jennifer Solana. Front row: Mary Meier,

Natalie Goffredo, Tyler Gregory.

2. Members of the Beta Lambda Chapter

at the University of Central Arkansas on

the ice skating rink at their Freezin’ in

February sisterhood event. From left to

right: Kaleigh Angleton, Sarah Atkins,

Jordan Fletcher, Maddie Spickard, Hannah

Lassiter, Callie Clifton, Christina Griffin,

Hannah Ray and Jenni Goodwin.

3. The Delta Upsilon Chapter at the

University of Texas at San Antonio held

a campus fundraising event and raised

more than $11,000 for Special Olympics.

Representatives and athletes from the

local Special Olympics chapter visited

the chapter where they presented a

formal check of the donation.

4. The Theta Eta Chapter at Rogers

State University, OK, held a spring

mother/daughter tea. Chapter members

enjoyed meeting and getting to know

the mothers of each member.

5. The newly installed West Michigan

Alumnae Chapter held their first formal

meeting in spring 2014. Women from

different collegiate chapters were thrilled

to begin this new stage of alumnae chapter

membership with Alpha Sigma Alpha.

LEADERSHIP CONSULTANTSDISTRICT NEWS

1

3

4

2

5


6. The Central Pennsylvania Alumnae

Chapter hosted a Farmville Four luncheon

in April 2014. Women from Sigma Sigma

Sigma Fraternity, Kappa Delta Sorority,

Zeta Tau Alpha Fraternity and Alpha Sigma

Alpha Sorority celebrated the founding of

each organization at Longwood University,

VA. The luncheon included a raffle where

money raised was donated to the National

Panhellenic Conference Foundation.

7. Four Beta Epsilon alumnae attended their

50th college reunion last year at James

Madison University, VA. The ties remain

strong after many years and some miles

apart. Left to right: Betty Harrington

Griffiths, Ellen Childers, Mary Katherine

Neal Marler and Bobbie Yates Blesse.

8. The Jacksonville Alumnae Chapter, FL,

participated in the winter Girls on the

Run 5k event and volunteered alongside

women of the Theta Mu Chapter at

Valdosta State University, GA. From left

to right: Kim Benson, DN-B, Lyla Byers,

ΘM, “Dot” - Kellie Temples, ΘM, Jane

Chafin, PP, and Toni Weatherford, BΛ.

9. The Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter

(NOVA) was thrilled to perform an

alumnae initiation for Christine Torbert

in spring 2014. Back row: Cindy Ryan,

DI, Abbey Rowe Erwin, ΘB, and Emily

Koellner, ZF. Front row: Nita Lalla

Roncone, ET, Crystal Campos-Rosales,

ZS, Christine Torbert, ET, Michelle

Cann, NN, and Natasha Jackson, ΘG.

6 7

8 9


LEADERSHIP CONSULTANTSDISTRICT NEWS

1. Epsilon Epsilon Chapter, Emporia State University, KS

2. Beta Lambda Chapter, University of Central Arkansas

3. Beta Nu Chapter, Murray State University, KY

4. Delta Upsilon Chapter, University of Texas at San Antonio

5. Epsilon Upsilon Chapter, California University of Pennsylvania

6. Gamma Lambda Chapter, Loyola University, IL

7. Gamma Phi Chapter, St. John’s University, NY

8. Zeta Eta Chapter, Rockhurst University, MO

9. Theta Beta Chapter, Roanoke College, VA

10. Theta Delta Chapter, University of Alaska-Anchorage

11. Theta Kappa Chapter, Texas A&M University-Kingsville

12. Theta Sigma Chapter, Southern Connecticut State University

13. Theta Tau Chapter, Capital University, OH

Update your information on MyASA today: myASA.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org

Welcome to alumnae membership!

1

7

10 12 13

11

8

5

6

4

2

3

9

Congrats graduates!


FOUNDATION CHAPTER CHALLENGE 2013-14Congratulations to all the collegiate and alumnae chapters that participated in Foundation Chapter

Challenge during District Day events this year. Thanks to all your hard work and gifts, $16,168 was

raised for the Foundation. This will continue to support educational programs for our members.

What is The Foundation Chapter Challenge? The Foundation Chapter Challenge is an annual competition among all collegiate and alumnae chapters.

Chapters plan and complete local fundraisers for the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation. Chapters with the

most creative fundraisers and most money raised are awarded prizes at each District Day.

The Chairman’s Cup, awarded to the chapter that raised the most money per member, is awarded

at the national convention & leadership conference.

2013 Chairman’s Cup winner - Beta Beta Chapter, University of Northern Colorado2014 Chairman’s Cup winner - Delta Nu-A Chapter, Kettering University, MI

For more information on how to get started and participate in the Foundation Chapter Challenge, contact [email protected]

for the Chapter Challenge Resource Guide.

FOUNDATION NEWS

COLLEGIATE FOUNDATION

DONATIONS BEGIN WITH

THE 1901 SOCIETY

Alpha Sigma Alpha collegians have

the opportunity to join our exclusive

undergraduate member giving club—

the 1901 Society. To join, collegians

make a donation to the Foundation

of $19.01. Money raised by these

donations support District Day

and convention grants. In 2013-14

the number of 1901 Society members

was 410. That is almost $8,000 to

educational programming.

If all undergraduate members joined

the 1901 Society, we could raise

$104,000 for the Foundation.

If these undergraduate members

continued to give $19.01 for all four

years, we could raise $416,000.

ALUMNAE MATCHING DONATIONS

Passionate alumnae match 1901 Society

donations, doubling the amount of the

donation and doubling the support for

grants made by the Foundation.

To make a matching 1901 Society gift,

contact [email protected].

Collegiate chapters from District 3 who participated in the Foundation Chapter Challenge 2013-14.

Welcome to alumnae membership!


The word palm means tribute, honor or praise. Alpha Sigma Alpha gives palms to alumnae and collegians for their successes and milestones.

Celebrating a personal, professional or volunteer success? Tell us about it! Send your success stories to the editor at [email protected].

ASAPalms

ASA PALMS

Chi Chi Debbie Yuska recently published

her book, Is He a Keeper? Savvy Gal Secrets to Spotting

Mr. Wrong and Hooking Mr. Right. This book is the

result of a long-held desire to teach women

about making healthy relationship choices and

empower them with effective tools for attracting the kind of love they

want and deserve.

Debbie has invested the past 13 years working as an advocate for

disadvantaged women and children through Assistance League©

of Indianapolis. In 2009, she received the Ada Edwards Laughlin

Award in recognition of outstanding service to the organization.

To support these efforts, Debbie is donating 10 percent of the

proceeds of her book to fight domestic violence and sexual assault.

Debbie’s book is available on Amazon.com.

Gamma Xi Susan Cavalline Evans

recently published her book, Don’t Write

The Obituary Yet, co-written with her doctor, Thomas C. Krivak,

a noted gynecologist/oncologist. The book follows her journey

with ovarian cancer that started in June of 2012. She is now in

successful remission.

Susan and her husband, George, have established the Evans-

Krivak Gynecological Cancer Research and Education Fund to

spur further research into the detection and causes of ovarian

cancer. All proceeds from the book are donated to the fund.

Susan’s book is available from the publisher, Word Association

of Tarentum, PA, and is listed on Amazon, Kindle, Nook

and eBooks.


Zeta Theta Members of the Zeta Theta Chapter won first place at the Mid-Atlantic International Championship of Collegiate A Cappella (ICCA) quarterfinals at Rutgers University, NJ, in spring 2014 as members of the Wagner College, NY, all-women’s a capella vocal group, Vocal Synergy. Zeta Theta Chapter members are (1) Cassandra White, Natalie Brierre, Elle Brigida and Kayla Jardine-Vistocco. (2) Zeta Theta Chapter members of Vocal Synergy: Cassandra White and Elle Brigida with a chapter sister who came to

show support, Amanda Sieferman.

Beta Pi Past National President Dr. Rosemary Carucci

Goss, the residential property management advisory

board professor in the college of liberal arts and

human sciences at Virginia Polytechnic Institute

and State University (Virginia Tech), received the

university’s 2014 Alumni Award for Excellence

in Undergraduate Academic Advising.

Established by the Virginia Tech Alumni Association,

the Alumni Award for Excellence in Undergraduate

Academic Advising is presented annually by the

Office of the Provost to a faculty member who

has been particularly dedicated to and effective

at advising undergraduate students. Recipients

are inducted into the university’s Academy of

Advising Excellence.

Zeta Zeta Amanda Sasek was crowned Miss

Kansas in June 2014. She will compete in the

nationally televised Miss America competition

in Atlantic City, NJ, in September 2014.

Theta Delta Two

sisters were crowned

at the Miss Alaska

competition in June

2014; Malie Delgado

was crowned Miss

Alaska and JoEllen

Walters was crowned

Miss Alaska Collegiate. Malie will compete in the

nationally televised Miss America competition in

Atlantic City, NJ, in September 2014.

1

2


NEWS AND EVENTS

Refer a woman to Alpha Sigma AlphaDo you know a woman who is headed off to a college or university that has an Alpha Sigma Alpha chapter? Does this woman convey herself as a woman of poise and purpose, who commits herself to service, scholarship, leadership and friendship?

Refer her to an Alpha Sigma Alpha chapter! Many Alpha Sigma Alpha chapters depend on recruitment referrals to better get to know potential new members. As a collegiate or alumna member of Alpha Sigma Alpha, we need your help to find and refer a woman with Alpha Sigma Alpha personality.

To get a recruitment referral form, go to www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org and

search “Recruitment Referral.”

Hermes Society applications due Sept. 1, 2014The Alpha Sigma Alpha Hermes Society is an academic honors society created exclusively for members of Alpha Sigma Alpha.

To be eligible a member must have:• A minimum of one

year membership in Alpha Sigma Alpha

• At least a 3.5 cumulative GPA

• Academic standing of junior, senior or graduate student

To apply, go to www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org and search “Hermes Society.”


Helen Corey, KK, and Mary Jedrzejewski Olson, BF, take a look through a chapter scrapbook at the 1974 National Convention in Pittsburgh. For many years, scrapbooks were submitted and judged for a chapter scrapbook award.

from the archiveswww.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 31

I am humbled to be a woman of poise

and purpose. Alpha Sigma Alpha has

inspired and empowered me to flourish

both personally and professionally.

My exciting journey from collegian

to alumna and volunteer is marked

by finding myself over and over again –

all balanced by the desire to lead,

serve and make a difference.

As the executive director of a Habitat for

Humanity affiliate, I have been blessed

with the opportunity, on three separate

occasions, to travel to Guatemala to help

build houses with families in need of

simple, decent and affordable housing

– all without knowing how to speak the

native language, Spanish. The language

of friendship, kindness and appreciation

are universal, whether it be a smile, a

hug, or the act of laying concrete blocks

to build a house. I can say with certainty

that I know this language because of

Alpha Sigma Alpha.

9002 Vincennes Circle | Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018

WOMAN OF Poise and Purpose

Jennifer Schimmel StanleyZeta Delta alumnaMassachusetts College of Liberal Arts

the phoenix of alpha sigma alpha; summer 2014

Documents

delta delta delta

alpha sigma alphapage

alpha sigma alphasummer

gamma phi chapter

methodist university

johns university

district news

diphoto credit