The Iowa State Organization Remembering Vicki Holder …

_________The Iowa State Organization __________

__________ _of the Delta Kappa Gamma Society International_______ Winter 2019 Vol. 73 No. 2

Cruisin’ the Corridor

Pam Wittkamp Honored

Attendees at the 2019 Iowa State Organization State Convention in Cedar Rapids experienced history in the making. The organization consolidated the convention into Friday night and Saturday as well as voting on significant changes.

One convention tradition continued to be a special highlight of the Banquet Saturday night—the awarding of the State Achievement Award. Committee Chair Lorraine Sewick made the presentation to Past State President Pam Wittkamp continuing a tradition which began in 1988.

Pam served as Iowa State President from 2015-17 after terms of second and first vice president. She had been previously active on Membership, Educational Excellence, Achievement Award, Strategic Action Plan, Finance and Leadership Development Committees. She was a member of the 2012 Class of the Golden Gift Leadership/Management Seminar.

Pam was initiated into Alpha Iota Chapter in 1990 and has been its president three times in addition to holding other offices and committee responsibilities. The honoree has attended two-dozen state conventions including serving as co-chairman of the 75th anniversary convention in Burlington as well as regional conferences and inter-national conventions. Pam was a co-chair for the 2019 International Conference “Leadership” held in Des Moines.

Mrs. Wittkamp earned her BS in Education and MA in Latin American and Asian History from Northeast Missouri State College (now Truman State Univ.). During 33 years as a classroom teacher, Pam taught history, geography, and language arts at middle school and high school levels.

Congratulations, Pam!

Remembering Vicki Holder

Victoria Holder was a passionate educator who spent nearly a decade in West Harrison and three decades in Council Bluffs teaching English, while building a writing contest at Iowa Western Community College. Vicki was also a supervisor of student teachers through Buena Vista. Victoria was initiated into Beta Chapter and continued to be an active member until she passed away at her residence on October 7, 2019. As part of the Beta dele-gation, she attended the 2019 Iowa State Organization Conven-tion in Cedar Rapids. She was currently serving on the chapter’s Membership Committee. Vicki served Beta Chapter twice as its president from 1978-80 and again from 2002-2004. After serving the state in various capacities, she was elected Upsilon State President for the 1993-95 biennium. At the 1999 State Convention, Vicki was awarded the State Achievement Award. She was a mentor to many of us.

Victoria Marie Holder was born January 8, 1927, in Council Bluffs. She graduated from Abraham Lincoln High

Continued on page 3

NEWS BULLETIN

ALetterfromLaurie...

Embracing change and enjoying the journey is my vision statement for this biennium as Iowa State President.

EMBRACING CHANGE - Embracing change is essential to growing as an individual and an organization. Delta Kappa Gamma members can embrace change by taking small steps forward, not being afraid to ask questions, knowing that mistakes along the way are okay and learning from those mistakes if and when they happen.

In this biennium, DKG members will experience changes through adjustments that have been made in our Iowa State Bylaws and Standing Rules. Chapters will be updating their own chapter rules to incorporate the changes in the Constitution and International Standing Rules. The reorganization of the state into 5 districts will bring about new changes. Additional modifications will include working with district directors instead of area coordinators, developing district meetings for training of committee chairs, the occurrence and rotation schedule of state convention and a new format for the Fall Executive board meeting.

Though this sounds like a lot to adjust to, we will address each of these changes positively with a chance for growth and advancement in ourselves and in our Society. ENJOYING THE JOURNEY - Take time to stop and appreciate the journey as you experience it. DKG members can enjoy the Delta Kappa Gamma journey in many ways, on the chapter, state and international level.

There are many opportunities for members to enjoy the journey at the chapter level. They can participate in chapter events, develop camaraderie with their fellow chapter members and help with leadership responsibilities by holding an office, being a committee chair and planning an event and/or program.

At the state level, the journey is enjoyed by finding fellowship with members from around the state, attending state meetings and conventions, participating on state committees and assuming a leadership role on a state committee or as a state officer. We can enjoy the journey at the international level by meeting new friends on a large DKG scale, attending conferences and conventions around the country, attending social trips open to all DKG members and participating on international committees.

As you can see, there are many opportunities to participate in this journey. Being involved in the journey can bring us enjoyment and an appreciation of our Society.

One of my goals for the biennium is recognizing new members. Let me know as your chapter initiates new members. I would like to make a personal contact with them and welcome them into our Society. A second goal is to encourage use and development of chapter newsletters. I have received several newsletters from chapters this fall. They have been so interesting and a great way to see what is going on in your individual chapters. Newsletters are a great way of communicating with your members and I would encourage all of our chapters to work at developing them. A third goal is to assist in organizing and carrying out district meetings. We want them to be positive training sessions for chapter presidents and committee members. The leadership committee will work together as we move forward in the planning of these meetings.

“Life is about accepting the challenges along the way, choosing to keep moving forward, and savoring the journey.” Roy T. Bennett. May each of us EMBRACE CHANGE AND ENJOY THE JOURNEY as we begin the 2019-2021 biennium. By Laurie Marple, Iowa State Organization President (Alpha)

Page 2 Iowa State News Bulletin Winter 2019

Embracing change and

enjoying the journey

Your 2019-2021

Iowa State Organization

Officers

President Laurie Marple

Alpha 1220 Rustic View Ct. Eldridge, IA 52748 [email protected]

First Vice-President

Kristin Merkle Tau

6942 Hemingway St. Johnston, IA 50131

[email protected]

Second Vice-President Liz Poock Alpha Pi

2456 Sable Ave. Readlyn, IA 50668

[email protected]

Secretary Suzanne Bartels

Mu 922 Evans St.

Sloan, IA 51055 [email protected]

Treasurer

Sandy Aronson Alpha Omega

Box 441 Albert City, IA 50510

[email protected]

Parliamentarian Pam Wittkamp

Alpha Iota 2400 Arbor View Drive Burlington, IA 52601

[email protected]

Newly elected and installed Iowa State Organization officers for 2019-2021 are President Laurie Marple, First Vice President Kristin Merkle, Second Vice President Liz Poock, and Secretary Suzanne Bartels. Remembering Vicki Holder . . . continued from page 1 School in 1944, then attended the University of Iowa for two years, and graduated from Omaha University, now known as UNO, in 1949. She received her Master’s Degree from UNO in 1953. In addition to her active participation in Delta Kappa Gamma Society International, Vicki was an active member of New Horizon Presbyterian Church and PEO Chapter GQ. In 2015, Vicki had the distinction of being inducted into the Abraham Lincoln High School Hall of Fame. Vicki was well read and loved a good conversation. She did beautiful needlework and the children and grandchildren of many former students and friends have been wrapped in blankets, sweaters and hats she created for them. Some of the nicest tributes to Vicki come from former students—“inspiring teacher and wonderful person,” “an outstanding educator, positively impacting generations of students and hundreds of colleagues,” “she really cared,” and “she brought out the best in me.”

By Nancy Middaugh, Beta

Celebrating Milestones in 2020 Happybirthdaygreetingstothesechapterscelebratingspecialdatesinthenewyear.80Years ZetaChapter March8,194065Years PsiChapter October22,195565Years OmegaChapter October29,195555Years AlphaChi November6,1965

Iowa State News Bulletin Winter 2019 page 3

2019ConventionbytheNumbers

Total Registered: 136

International Guest: 1

First Time Attendees: 18

Chapters Represented: 28

Past State Presidents in attendance: 11

50-year milestone members: 3

Scholarships Awarded: 5

Community Sponsors: 30

Tours offered: 3

Door Prizes given: 36

Bylaws and Standing Rules changed:

TOO MANY TO COUNT

Value of Memories and Friendships:

PRICELESS

CONVENTION REVISITED On behalf of Area 10’s Convention Planning Committee,

thank you for attending the 2019 Iowa State Organization Convention in Cedar Rapids on June 14-15, 2019. We were thrilled to host!

DKG members cruised on in for the convention where they were able to participate in tours, enjoyed some of the area’s amenities, were served great food, attended outstanding workshops, and participated in crafting the changes needed for the future of the organization.

The committee extends thanks and appreciation to: • Karen Dole for her biennium of leadership, and the support provided to the convention planning committee. • Dr. Helen Popovich, Dr. Connie Hoag, the Ad Hoc committee, Samantha Dolby, Roseann Robe, and Mary Tofilin for leading contemplative and captivating breakout sessions! • Our many sponsors for providing gifts, food, financial contributions, and their talents to support our convention. • Alpha Nu and Theta chapter members who gave their time, food and monetary donations, door prizes, and their talents to ensure the success of our convention.

Summary page by Peg Roemig and Lori Bruzek, Co-chair

Contemplative and Captivating Breakout Sessions Dr. Helen Popovich

• Chapter Presidents Round Table • Chapter Treasurers: New Dues Collection Process

Ad Hoc committee • Bylaws, Standing Rules, and Change, Oh My!” • All Aboard the Change Train

Dr. Connie Hoag • Build Your Chapter’s Muscles

Samantha Dolby • Computer Science for All K-12 Students

Roseann Robe • To Keep or Not to Keep. That is the Question

Mary Tofilin • Women’s Heart Health

Opportunities to Collaborate

Friday night dinner:

118 Saturday birthday luncheon:

132 Saturday evening banquet:

130 Continental Breakfasts:

190 (Sat and Sun) Glasses of Wine consumed:

Just Enough

Funds Raised $1,366.00 - Golden Bags

Emergency Fund $1,040.00 - Silent Auction

Kosovo Sister Project


Friday, June 14, vehicles driven by Delta Kappa Gamma sisters from the four corners of Iowa came cruisin’ into Cedar Rapids for the convention. Members of host chapters Theta and Alpha Nu made sure everyone received a warm welcome to the Cedar Rapids Marriott.

Several sisters arrived early to take advantage of tour opportunities. Included in the choices were Amana Museum, Brucemore Mansion, and Grant Wood Studio & Cedar Rapids Art Museum. Later in the afternoon, the Hospitality Room opened, mini grants were on display, and silent auction items could be oohed and aahed over.

At 6:00 p.m., President Karen Dole welcomed everyone to the convention. Attendees were seated at tables centered with road maps cut in the shape of Iowa, classic cars, shades, hats and Mills Stream Root Beer. After a pork and chicken buffet, convention workshops began. The Ad Hoc Committee to Study the Structure of the State Organization presented “Bylaws, Standing Rules, and Change, Oh My!” and Dr. Connie Hoag encouraged

chapters to beef up in “Build Your Chapter’s Muscles.”

Then it was off to the Hospitality Room for treats and wine.

Discussion of proposed changes to Bylaws and Standing Rules also took place over popcorn.

The next morning members could return to the Hospitality Room for yummy breakfast treats.

Iowa State News Bulletin Winter 2019 Page 5

Cruising on to Saturday

Bright and early Saturday morning the Registration table and Hospitality Room were active. At 8:15, attendees moved on to the first of two workshop sessions.

Mary Tofilon, Alpha, spoke on “Women

Heart Health.” Samantha Dahlby, shared “Computer Science for All K-12 Students.”

State Archivist Roseann Robe, explained what items to keep in your collection during “To Keep or Not to Keep. That is the Question.”

The Ad Hoc Committee to Study the

Structure of the State Organization Plus presented “All Aboard the Change Train.” International Guest Dr. Helen Popovich gave two workshops. One was a chapter presidents’ round table and the other was to help chapter treasurers understand the new dues collection process. She’s shown above sharing her wisdom.

At10:30PresidentKarenDolecalledtheExecutiveBoard/GeneralSessionMeetingtoorder.TheAmericanHeritageGirlsTroupIA2015presentedtheflagsandledthePledgeofAllegiance. Dr.HelenPopovich,InternationalParliamentarian,gaveastateoftheSocietyoverviewemphasizingthatweallworkforthesamepurposethroughInternational,StateandChapters.TheDKGwebsiteisbeingupdated,theExpansionCommitteeisredefiningitsfocusandconferenceswillbethemebased.


Founders’DayBirthdayLuncheon

At the luncheon tables were decorated with photos of our founders and cupcakes to celebrate Iowa State Organization’s 83rd birthday. This year also marks the 90th birthday of Delta Kappa Gamma Society International. Bonnie Romine, Alpha Nu, gave a Founders’ Day Blessing before the lunch of beef/turkey sliders and mixed green salads. On the tables were lists of personal traits of the 12 founders, members were encouraged to identify traits they share. For instance, Jessie M. Parker got along with the “rowdies” and Nina M. Goltry loved to cook. Laurie Marple, First Vice President, presided and gave recognition to Chapter Charter members and First Time Attendees. Gold mesh bags were passed for those who wanted to make a special contribution to the Emergency Fund. Later it was announced that $1,366 was collected. Scholarships were presented by Judith Olson (photo on page 8). More super door prizes were awarded then there was a short break before the business meetings resumed.

During the afternoon business meeting, additional committee reports were heard, election of officers was held, and proposed Amendments to the Bylaws and Standing Rules were acted upon.

As part of the World Fellowship report, the per member donations for the right to welcome Katrina to their chapter for the next year were announced. Alpha Gamma was 3rd with $10.87, Alpha Iota was second with $16.79, and Xi was 1st with $17.66. Carol Iverson prepares to take Katrina to Mason City.

Convention co-chairs Lori Bruzek, Theta, and Peg Roemig, Alpha Nu, display the list of donors and sponsors who helped the two chapters host an excellent convention.


PresentationofStateScholarships

It is the responsibility and privilege of the Scholarship Committee to select recipients for three categories of scholarships and this year Chair Judith Olson-Chi and her committee Candy Carlson-Alpha Omega, Carol Crane-Epsilon, and Diane Burgmaier-Beta Kappa were pleased to award scholarships in all three. Leslie Stewart-Alpha Omega, seated left, received a $600 Road Scholarship to participate in the “Mackinac Island: the Jewel of Michigan.” Cara Orr-Zeta, center, received an educational scholarship for $600 to take courses through Drake University. Denise Ackerlund-Beta Kappa, right, will use her educational scholarship to take courses through Augustana University for license renewal. Kristi Chance-Beta Zeta was unable to attend, but her $600 scholarship will be used toward her Master’s Degree from UNI. The third category is an Iowa State Memorial Scholarship. The honoree does not apply for the scholarship herself, but is recommended by her chapter without her knowledge. The scholarship in the amount of $800 went to Cara Orr. She will use professional development courses through Heartland AEA to help her with current assignment as a professional learning coach at the secondary level in Newton. In closing, Judith challenged members to apply for one of the scholarships this coming year. “Learning truly never ends and the goal of the scholarship committee is to support lifelong learning and lifelong learners.”

~SilentAuctionBenefitsIowa-KosovoProject~ The Educational Excellence Committee hosted a Silent auction at the 2019 State Convention with the

proceeds going to the Iowa-Kosovo project. The women attending the convention had sixteen beautiful, themed baskets to offer bids. Many of the baskets contained consumable items made in Iowa, including various wines from all over the state. There was a Grant Wood themed basket, a Road Trip basket, a couple of Spa/Pamper Me basket, a 4th of July party basket, a summer reading basket, and a DKG Roses, Roses, A Basket full of Roses. All together the silent auction produced a little over $1000.00 for the Iowa-Kosovo project.

The Educational Excellence Committee would like to thank everyone who provided items for the baskets, the bidders of the baskets, the winners of each basket and the ladies from the convention committee who helped set up the baskets when we had to move them from room to room. By Liz Poock, Alpha Pi


Banquet in the Rosewood

The Iowa State Organization Banquet for 2019 commenced after a very moving Ceremony of Remembrance. It began with the presentation of chapter presidents.

The tables were set with black linens that contrasted wonderfully with the centerpieces of white lanterns containing white flaming candles set on mirrors. The meal began with plated mixed green salad. Choices for the main course were beef medallions in balsamic red onion marmalade with herbed mashed potatoes or vegetarian lasagna with both having a side of sautéed green beans. The finale of the meal was another delicious dessert of cheesecake with raspberry sauce.

President Karen Dole introduced the guest speaker, Dr. Helen Popovich, DKG International Parliamentarian. She spoke to us on “The Joy of ‘Yes.’” Her reflections were of her own personal experiences and, also, of those that may occur in professional and organizational experiences. She wanted us to comprehend that joy is not just that of the person receiving the “yes” but also by the one saying “yes” to

the request. And that, that joy may be the most fulfilling. Recognition was given to three 50-year members—Betty Hoth of Alpha Pi, Enid Benda of Theta, and Nancy Birdwell of Beta Theta. The 2019 Achievement Award was presented to Pam Wittkamp. Presidents from 30 chapters accepted either Gold or Silver Iowa Chapter Excellence Awards. After 2017-19 President Karen Dole gave her Farewell Thoughts, Dr. Helen Popovich and outgoing officers conducted the installation of 2019-2021 officers. In another first, the convention officially closed on Saturday night.

By Virginia Dedor, Phi

Installation of your Iowa State Organization Officers 2019-2021

Garden of Reflection was the theme of the Ceremony of Remembrance which included the responsive reading “I’m Glad Your Life Touched Mine,” group singing, and the presentation of the roses. Membership Committee members conducting the ceremony were Connie Gillaspie, Chair Judy O’Brien, and Sherry Craig with music led by Angela Pratt.

Karen and Helen Outgoing Iowa State President Karen Dole, Xi, and International Parliamentarian and convention guest Dr. Helen Popovich glow in the success of the 2019 State Convention. To the benefit of DKG, both have said “yes” many times

Thanks to the members of both Theta and Alpha Nu for making

Cruising the Corridor a grand experience.

Next stop--Okoboji June 11-12, 2021


Cornetet Award to Tussey

Dr. Jill Tussey of Beta Kappa chapter has received a Cornetet Individual Professional Development Award in the amount of $2,000.

Dr. Tussey is a professor in the Literacy Department at Buena Vista University. She plans to use her award to attend the Conference on Literacy – Literacy from the Past for the Future: Literacy for All.

Photos Selected

Susan Carlson of Alpha Omega chapter has had two photographs selected for inclusion in the 2019, Volume 85-4 issue of The Delta Kappa Gamma Bulletin. One is titled “Dripping Cones” and the other is “Spring Blooms.”

Planning Ahead

July 7-11, 2020 International Convention

Philadelphia Marriott Downtown

Philadelphia, PA

Summer 2020 Area Workshops in Iowa

June 11-12, 2021

Iowa State Convention Arrowwood Okoboji

Potential Direct Mailing of News Bulletin

The Iowa State DKG Communications Committee is working to get members subscribed to a new email list to facilitate sending of the Iowa State News Bulletin. They would like to get this set up before The Bulletin goes out. Please assist the Communications Committee.

From the Committee: "We are attempting to get the The Iowa (Upsilon) State DKG News Bulletin sent directly to members' email accounts. We have a MailChimp account that will send out the Bulletin... but to only those who have 'subscribed'."

Simply open our state website and complete the short form. https://iowadkg.weebly.com/

If you have any questions or difficulties, please send Mary Zirkelbach an email. [email protected]

One-room Schoolhouse Project

A year ago Beta Omicron chapter took on the project of helping the Kossuth County Historical Society with the Riverdale one-room schoolhouse. The schoolhouse had been moved to the fairgrounds with many of its original furnishings still inside. The chapter had posters made and framed telling of members' experiences either teaching or attending a school similar to Riverdale which were hung in the cloak room. They also began serving as "hostesses" for the school during the fair.

This year Beta Omicron applied for and received an ISEA Outreach Grant to

purchase a TV for the schoolhouse. The next project is creating a flash drive or DVD showing the building being moved to the fairgrounds, photos from actual classes attending one-room schools in the county and to provide information on schools and education during this period of time. The flash drive will be available to be shown during the fair and to Kossuth County classrooms when they visit during the school year. We hope to make history come alive and allow young people a vision of what attending a one room school entailed.

Submitted by Trudy Dugan


Neva Barnhart Leadership Class 2019

The 2019 Neva Barnhart Leadership Class was held at the Embassy Suites in downtown Des Moines. Standing left to right are Bonnie Downes, Mary Dodds, Jane Schmidt, Christine Case, Anita-Fagen Miller, and Colleen Walters; seated are Linda Podhajsky, Amy Jacobsen, Roseann Robe, Jill Brown and Barb Zabel. Absent for photo -Kathy Winger.

NevaBarnhartTraining–LearningtoPivotandGrowasaLeader

SubmittedbyJaneSchmidt

Attending local DKG meetings is a wonderful way to network with highly motivated women educators who desire to have an impact world-wide. However, there is nothing more meaningful than to couple local service with attending either a district, state, or international meeting. Attending the international conference focused on the theme of leadership in Des Moines, as well as being part of the Neva Barnhart Leadership training, gave me inspiration to lead with passion right here, right now. Before attending I wondered: How can 350 leading women educators come together and feel like a team? It began with a high-quality theme, included motivational workshops and speakers, and ended with singing “Celebration” while dancing in a conga line throughout the dining area. The DKG Leadership International Conference and the Neva Barnhart Leadership Training build for those in attendance a desire to grow as leaders. Being part of the Neva Barnhart Leadership Training added a personal connection for me with the Delta Kappa Gamma members. During the training, I was immediately at home with like-minded people in the training who were seeking ideas on how to become better leaders. Those leading us provided a great example of joyful leadership. Throughout the conference, we were reminded what quality leadership is. Beginning with the Leadership Boot Camp provided by Susan Leahy, we began to understand the mindset of “leadership starts right here, right now.” It was emphasized that leadership is not a title but rather resides in our relationship with power. We can seek “Power Over” which makes one seek approval; whereas, those who seek “Power With” are provided with confidence and permission by a team to lead. The idea of “Power With” was integrated into the Neva Barnhart Leadership Training as we went from being a group to become a team. We had constant reminders throughout the conference that leadership should not be about changing but rather expanding or pivoting; it should always be forward-focused. The idea of developing our confidence and learning to expand and pivot was encouraged within the Neva Barnhart Training. We were assigned jobs – one was to serve as a workshop facilitator. This job included making sure the presenter had what they needed as well providing an introduction to the presentation. We were also assigned to be a person’s page – checking in with the person throughout the day and assuring them that there was

Continued on page 12 Iowa State News Bulletin Winter 2019 Page 11

Continued from page 11

NevaBarnhartTrainingsomeone there to assist them if they needed it. Doing these jobs helped me to feel a part of the conference by providing a personal connection to the action. I found the presenters and workshops to be relevant and helpful in guiding those of us in attendance to be better leaders. Whether it was learning strategies to strengthen connections or analyzing your leadership style, leadership was the strong theme interwoven throughout the tapestry of the convention. Along with workshops, the Neva Barnhart Leadership Training provided me with an opportunity to network with others, prepare and deliver an elevator speech, and participate in team-building exercises. For those looking for a way to become personally involved in a convention as well as learning about your own way to lead, I highly recommend participation in the Neva Barnhart Leadership Training. We were encouraged to develop a vision on how we wanted a group to be led. Obviously, those who planned our training had a vision which came to fruition by those who attended the training. If their anchor statement (what they were striving for) was about having those in attendance leave feeling respected, heard, productive, involved, confident, inspired, connected, and motivated to lead, the mission was achieved.

In the words of Ray Bennett, “It’s only after you’ve stepped outside your comfort zone that you begin to change, grow, and transform.” If you desire to grow in your leadership, consider attending the Neva Barnhart Leadership Training. You will not be disappointed.

IowaVisionStatement:WomenEducatorsCommittedto

LifelongLearningOpportunitiesforAll


Spotlight on Chapters

Alpha . . . Alpha chapter presented $5,500 awards to three high school students as 2019 Hapke Recipients. Kayla Cornett will attend the University of Iowa with a pre-med/biology focus. Also at Iowa will be Carter Josund majoring in business. Brady McIntire will attend the University of Dubuque to study business. Beta . . Beta chapter members welcomed a guest speaker from Catholic Charities Phoenix House to their meeting. It is a domestic violence service near Council Bluffs providing help for people dealing with domestic abuse. Chapter members brought bed pillows to donate to them. Theta Theta chapter had an excellent presentation on the Eastern Iowa Honor Flights Program given by Bruce Adams, the media/PR director of the organization. He described the application process, the planning, and what the veterans experience on their special day. Iota . . After hearing the needs of EMBARC (Ethnic Minorities of Burma Advocacy and Resources) at their October meeting, Iota chapter members were encouraged to bring winter wear for children to the December social. They responded with 52 new or gently used items from coats to boots to gloves. Chi . . . If you are looking for a unique way to add to your chapter treasury, try this Fun Raiser done at a Chi chapter meeting. Treasurer Gerry Runkle asked members to write as many words as they could which were contained in the word NOVEMBER. They then paid 5 cents for each 2-letter word, 10 cents for each 3-letter word 1cent for each 4-letter word and 5-letter words were free.

WORLD FELLOWSHIP COMMITTEE

Here are the addresses for the Iowa International Student Grant

Recipients. Chapters and their members are encouraged to support them through mailings and perhaps small packages. You may want to set a goal to send greetings their way as we ring in the new year! *Sunduni Agampodi 2315 Olive St., Apt. #2 Cedars Falls, IA 50613 is from Sri Lanka and is majoring in accounting at UNI. *Shareen Iqtadar 2517 Royal Dr., Apt. #8 Cedar Falls, IA 50614 is from Pakistan and plans to complete her Dr. in Education at UNI. *Hacer Karmese 313 Samoa Ct. Iowa City, IA 52246 is from Turkey and is studying Educational Measurement and Statistics at the U. of Iowa. *Katie Samuels 605 Washington St. Fayette, IA 52142 is from England and studies exercise, sports science and fitness at Upper Iowa University.

The Iowa International Student Grants are supported through member contributions. Have you have heard of Katrina? Katrina is a doll, Miss Iceland, first purchased at the Northwest Regional in 1993. As a motivator for raising contributions, Katrina is awarded at the State Convention to the chapter that has collected the most money per member for World Fellowship and International Student Grants. Will your chapter earn the privilege of caring for Katrina? Use your creativity to do fundraising to support the Grants.

Members of the World Fellowship Committee for the next biennium are Chair Dena Higginbotham-Beta, Yvonne Felder-Tau, Laura Heitritter-Alpha Phi, Jane Schmidt-Alpha, and Karen Sudmeier-Lambda.

Project Helps Clarity Clinic

Beta Alpha’s service project has been to support Clarity Clinic in Dubuque. It is a place for young women and men to go for pregnancy counseling and education related to child welfare and safety, financial literacy, job readiness, and health. They chose Clarity Clinic for its high emphasis on women, not only in pregnancy counseling but also for its emphasis on parenting topics designed to help young people develop supportive relationships and sustainable life skills. Clients are awarded points for attending trainings and are able to exchange for baby items.

Beta Alpha members donated gently used books and presented a monetary donation to Clarity Clinic during their visit to the site in August.

Pictured at the Clarity Clinic are Beta Alpha members Jonelle Kann, Norma Thiese, Mary Crawford, Dennis Rima--Development Director of Clarity Clinic, Barbara Ruff, and Kris Nauman--Executive Director of Clarity Clinic.

Submitted by Norma Thiese

Chapter Spotlight

Beta Omicron. . . Beta Omicron members gathered at S & B Farm Distillery in Bancroft for their November meeting. The owner Sara Winkleman gave a presentation on their business venture which was established in 2018. Yes, there was some sampling of the spirits! XI . . . Xi chapter’s December event was a Cookie Swap. Members were asked to bring a couple dozen cookies, bars, or candy along with the recipe. They also were to bring containers to transport their exchanges home. Yum! Beta Alpha . . . Beta Alpha member Roberta Hass was elected to the MFL MarMac Comm. School Board in November. The chapter donated the book “She Persisted” by Chelsea Clinton to the McGregor Public Library. Alpha Omega . . . At their Oct. meeting, Alpha Omega members heard from a certified Trauma Recovery Coach. She explained how trauma (personal instances of sexual, physical and mental abuse) impacts children and their education. Tau . . . An outing to the Des Moines Botanical Garden including lunch in the Trellis Café was their June KATS (Keeping Alive Tau Sisterhood) outing.


THANK YOU~~THANK YOU~~THANK YOU

A huge “Thank You” to Iowa DKG for everything you did to make the DKG International Conference—Leadership a success. Whether you served on the steering committee, volunteered in the registration area, facilitated a workshop, took photos, served as a table hostess, donated the wonderful items to put in the tote bags, donated money, made the quilted scarves, had a vendor table, donated baskets for silent auctions, or purchased auction baskets in previous years you were important to the conference being a great success.

Thank you to the 80 Iowa members who attended the conference and showed our Iowa hospitality. Together we made Des Moines and Iowa shine that week in July!

From Donna, Carolyn, and Pam

Educational Excellence Award

Diane Burgmaier, member of Beta Kappa Chapter and a member of the Orient Public Resource Technology Center board (right), presents a rose and an Educational Excellence Award to Sharon Mensing. The Director of the Technology Center was honored for her commitment to the promotion of literacy.

Tau Chapter Red Sand Project

with TAHT September 23,Tau Chapter and the Ankeny

Teens Against Human Trafficking (TAHT) conducted a Red Sand Project. Tau Chapter provided the red sand. MaryAnn Rosonke, Paula Thomson, and Mary Zirkelbach represented the chapter by attending the event at the Ankeny High School.

Ankeny’s TAHT spoke to Tau Chapter in April of last year. Their sponsor, Ruth Speth, teaches World History and Psychology. During the Red Sand Project, the group filled the sidewalk cracks and drew HT statistics on the sidewalks in chalk. They also passed out 500 muffins -Monday Muffin Madness-

with facts about trafficking in the US and Iowa to advertise the issues and the club to the students coming into the building.

Molly Goldman created The Red Sand Project and began this participatory art event to illustrate and “provide opportunities for people to question, connect and take action against vulnerabilities that can lead to human trafficking and exploitation.” (information taken from https://redsandproject.org)

Signing of Merger

Northwest Regional Director Donna Niday and Iowa State President Laurie Marple were present for the signing by chapter presidents Yvonne Felder-Tau and Carol Crane-Epsilon.


Fall Executive Board Fall Executive Board was held September

28 in Des Moines. Much of the day was spent

planning activities with our state committees and

districts. State President Laurie Marple conducted

the business meeting.

Upsilon State is gone; Iowa State is now the

reference for our organization—no more guessing

where we are located. Because of membership

changes and dissolution of chapters, the state has

been redistricted into five Districts, not Areas. There

will be District meetings in even years and a State

Convention in odd years.

State committees met specifically to set

goals for the biennium and to plan training. District

Directors met with their respective chapter presidents

to plan 2020 district meetings.

The chapters and their directors for each

new district follow:

NW District: Mu, Sigma, Chi, Alpha Phi,

Alpha Omega and Beta Omicron with Yettee Girard-

Alpha Phi as director.

NE District: Theta, Iota, Lambda, Xi, Phi,

Alpha Pi, and Beta Alpha with Jonelle Kann-Beta

Alpha as director.

SW District: Beta, Pi, Beta Zeta, Beta

Kappa, and Nu Alpha Gamma with Robyn Ploeger-

Beta Kappa as director.

SE District: Alpha, Omega, Alpha Epsilon,

Alpha Iota, Alpha Nu, Alpha Rho, Alpha Sigma,

Alpha Chi, and Beta Nu with Dianna Davis—Alpha

Rho as director.

Central District: Gamma, Delta, Epsilon,

Zeta, Eta, Tau, Psi, Alpha Kappa, Beta Gamma, and

Beta Theta with Sue Edwards-Delta as director.

A silent auction was held for the state’s

Kosovo Project. A Human Trafficking exhibit

focused on Tau’s Red Sand Project with Ankeny

High School.

Chapter Spotlights

Eta . . . Terri Holmgren shared her experience

writing a novel of historical fiction based on her

parents growing up during the Great Depression. She

included how she had to research so many different

historical topics to blend in with her family’s story.

Theta . . . Theta chapter participated in Ushers Ferry

Safe Halloween. Members donated money towards

candy to be passed out to trick or treaters. Betty

Stewart and Deanne Robinson were at the DKG

sponsored table handing out treats.

Niday Busy as Northwest Regional Director

Donna Niday, left, enjoys a break with Barbara Clausen at the Embassy Suites in Des Moines during the Leadership Conference.

In addition to her role in the planning of the

International Conference on Leadership in Des

Moines, Dr. Donna Niday has represented DKG

International in the Netherlands, Oregon, Maryland,

and Tennessee. During her visit to the Netherlands,

she was able to stay with chapter members in their

homes.

Dr. Niday has been active in DKG for 30

years and has enjoyed seeing the organization grow

and change. She served as 2009-11 state president of

Iowa. She has been the chair of the international

World Fellowship Committee and served as a

member of the Leadership Development Committee.

The coordinator of the English Education

program at Iowa State University, Dr. Niday teaches

young adult literature, English methods courses, and

a graduate literature methods course. She also

supervises student teachers in Iowa and in Norway.

Previously, Donna taught middle school and high

school English. She has served as state president of

the Iowa Council of Teachers of English and

currently serves as that organization’s executive

director.

In addition, Dr. Niday has co-authored with

Jean Boreen and Mary Johnson three books about

mentoring beginning teachers.

Iowa State Organization of DKG is proud of

Donna and her latest title—Northwest Regional

Director.


International Conference ~~ July 10-12, 2019

Leadership

Seventy-nine Iowans participated in the International Conference on Leadership at the Embassy Suites in Des Moines July 10-12. Iowa members were thrilled to be chosen to host the inaugural International Conference on Leadership and especially pleased to have 294 members and 17 guests in attendance. The conference was designed to help participants grow their leadership prowess through the terrific speakers, workshops and takeaways planned by Northwest Regional Director Dr. Donna Niday. Participants came by car and plane from all four corners of the continental U.S. and from both sides of Canada. In fact, 37 states as well as Washington, D.C. were represented plus four provinces. State organization presidents, executive secretaries, treasurers and membership chairs received Leadership Training Tuesday and Wednesday.

Iowans like to picnic, so guests were provided with a “Taste of Iowa” in the Atrium on Wednesday evening. Items included in the meal were a mini-pork sandwich (Iowa is #1 in pork production), a small ear of sweet corn (a special Iowa food), Sterzing’s Potato Chips (produced in Burlington), and a Rice Krispie Treat (created by Iowan Mildred Day, an ISU grad). The group moved on to the First General Session and “Leadership Bootcamp, Part 1.” Keynote speak Susan Leahy, MA CSP and Eunah Temple Holden Fund Speaker (below left) used her energy, enthusiasm and sense of humor to promote the leader in each of us. Her message centered around “living a more confident life both personally and professionally.”

The seven components Susan based her two Leadership Bootcamps and workshop upon were

1) Leadership starts right here, right now 2) Leadership is NOT a title (give yourself permission to lead) 3) Leadership resides in your relationship with power 4) Power WITH is real Leadership 5) Anchor your Leadership 6) Leadership evokes confidence 7) Leadership is forward focused

Throughout the next days, members from Iowa as well as other states and provinces conducted workshops, did 10-minute takeaways, and gave their interpretation of “I am a Leader.”


A sampling of the photographs Nancy Middaugh took of conference activities and Susan Carlson incorporated on Facebook. Photos top to bottom: At Growing Future Leaders Banquet the chorus sings “Lattice of Leadership” by Janice Moen, “Let’s Dance” by Moen, and “There is a Bond” by Arlene Ydstie-Oregon. In charge of the chorus were June Bowers-Nebraska and Janice Moen-Washington. Other photos show a Bootcamp Boogie, market place activity, Take Time for Me exercises, International President Cathy Daughtery attending a workshop, DKG Exec. Director Nita Scott and NW Regional Director Donna Niday on a panel, and challenges issued by Conference speakers.


ConferenceChallenges:

“Welcomedreamsofnewmembers.”

“Be in our world what the founders were in theirs.”

“Step up; take the reins!”

LeadershipConference Steering Committee Co-chairs Carolyn Rants and Pam Whitkamp, some of Iowa’s own workshop presenters, and a 10-minute Takeaway.

One Final Word AttheStateConventionin1995,President-electCarolynRantswasinsearchofaneditorforthe“UpsilonStateNewsBulletin.”Asweleftthemeeting,myfellowBetaBetamemberMaryAbbottsaid,“Ithinkwecandothat.”Sowithsomehesitancywesaid,“Yes!” Thefirstissuewelearnedagreatdealabouteachotheraswellasprintingandpostalrequirements.Thefirstmailingincluded3,515bulletinsdividedinto25mailingbags.MystudentshelpedmeputonmailinglabelsandbundlebyZIPCodes.BecausethemailingpermitwasalreadypaidforinArnoldsPark,wemetthepreviouseditor,MaryannaHubbard,halfwaybetweenHamburgandArnoldsParkandshetookthebagsbacktomail. TheBulletinhasalwaysbeenproducedusingMicroSoftWord.Thefirstissuehad12pages(evennumbersoitcouldbestapledandmailed).MaryandIcontinuedasateamforfouryears.SincetheFall1999issue,I’vesoloedinpagelayout.Thankstoeveryonewhocontri-butedarticlesandthosewhosearmsItwistedtocoveraspectsofconventions.Yourhelpwasmuchappreciated. ThelastprintedissuewasforSpring2017.Therewere1130copiesprintedofthe16-pageissue.BymakingtheNewsBulletinavailableonthewebsite,we’vebeenabletousecolorandmanymorepages.Mysincereapprecia-tiontoWebmastersKarenDoleandMaryZirkelbachwhodothemagic! ThirteenstatepresidentshaveaskedmetocontinueinthejobandIthankthemfortheirconfidenceinmyability.I’vealsodonespecialnewslettersattwoNorthwestRegionals. Finallythankstomyhusbandanddaughterwhodidlabels,transportedbags,andallowedmethisopportunity.NancyMiddaugh,Editor1995-2019


Branding and Marketing: What They Mean to DKG What is Branding?

Branding incorporates all the ways the Society illustrates its values, customs, and achievements. It becomes a tool for fundraising by raising awareness of purpose. It drives social goals: how the Society and its chapters are perceived. A brand can strengthen DKG’s identity to the general public and can help develop solidarity—internal mutual understanding— within a chapter.

Branding involves much more than developing a name, slogan, or logo such as the apple with a bite out of it. It occurs in stages as the brand is created. For DKG, the branding begins with the Society’s Mission and Vision statements. Then the organization’s Strategic Plan provides direction and guidance for what and how to present the goals as a brand.

A brand must create a psychological correlation. In other words, one must quickly and unconsciously associate the brand with the “meaning” and reputation of the branded entity. Consider what images, slogans, and values come to mind, for example, when one hears of Disney, Apple, Google, or Nike. Ideally, branding builds trust and integrity for the organization. A brand also displays what members are proud of as an organization. Our Society needs to be recognized for its many achievements. Greater public recognition would increase interest from potential members. Ultimately, a brand creates unity by focusing on the larger organization’s goals and is grounded in the needs of the group.

Marketing our Society: The Story that Follows the Brand

Once a chapter is unified in its knowledge of the Society’s brand, it can look ahead to promoting itself and its achievements, otherwise known as marketing. A chapter must determine and be focused on selecting a target population for marketing before creating its plan. The selected group could be inactive or dropped members, women who are actively teaching, or newly retired educators. The chapter may even decide to focus on student teachers or college students in education to promote the Society by sharing its brand. What does the targeted population need? Create a plan to meet those needs—a plan that also fulfills the Mission and Purposes of the Society. Is the goal to strengthen members’ involvement or educate the public about the Society? Then focus on women educators’ personal and professional interests and desires. Such needs are shared by more women educators than currently hold membership. By providing information to help both current and potential members to understand and appreciate the scope, resources, and benefits of DKG—i.e., by marketing—chapters show how they can meet these needs.

Develop hard-copy materials as tools that show how the Society—and specifically the chapter—can meet the needs of the target group. The Society’s website contains samples and templates of elevator speeches that describe the Society in 30 seconds; of chapter brochures that illustrate achievements as well as Purpose and Mission; and of a rack card for display. The chapter can personalize and print these for its own use.

Develop a strategy to use social media as a secondary tool to share the chapter’s goals and accomplishments via a public website, Facebook group page, Twitter posts, or online videos. Tailor the


Continuedfrompage19—MarketingandBrandingmedia to the target population and emphasize the personal meaning of DKG. For example, feature members telling their “back stories” of how they became members of this Society. The Communications and Publicity Committee will provide opportunities for members to create such informal marketing pieces at the international convention this summer in Austin.

The marketing plan should include follow-up connections with the specific targeted group, and those implementing the plan should keep a record of the contacts and communications. Effective marketing does not evolve from a one-shot event but from a strategic plan that involves multiple interactions to build awareness—to tell the story of the Society and how it can meet the needs of women educators.

External marketing to potential members, educators, and the public in general increases awareness of the impact of DKG and thereby supports not only membership by building pride but also recruitment by stimulating interest in the Society. Through planned marketing, the Society’s Purposes and Mission will engage more women educators who hold these values.

Submitted by Mary Zirkelbach, NW Regional Representative to the International Communications and Marketing Committee

May 2018 DKG Collegial Exchange

Thanks,Karen.


Bestwishes,Laurie.

Happy 2020, Everyone!

The Iowa State Organization Remembering Vicki Holder …

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