P HOENIX Summer 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!
Apr 01, 2016
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
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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?
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 5
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!
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 7
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.
8 Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Summer 2014
“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.
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 9
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
Lisa Stephenson, EE, membership growth coordinator
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
CHAPTER INSTALLATION
By Jordan Huntze, BΛ, leadership consultant
10 Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Summer 2014
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.
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 11
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.
CHAPTER INSTALLATION
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
12 Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Summer 2014
CHAPTER INSTALLATION
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
Lisa Stephenson, EE, membership growth coordinator
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
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 13
“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.”
CHAPTER INSTALLATION
Charter initiate Taylor Brown with National President Nora M. Ten Broeck.
14 Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Summer 2014
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.
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 15
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
16 Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Summer 2014
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
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 17
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”
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 19
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
20 Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Summer 2014
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.”
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 21
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
22 Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Summer 2014
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.
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 23
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
24 Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Summer 2014
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
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 25
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!
26 Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Summer 2014
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!
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 27
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.
28 Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Summer 2014
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
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 29
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.”
30 Phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Summer 2014
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