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Gamma Sigma Sigma National Service Sorority Perspectives, Fall 2013 edition
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N A T I O N A L S E R V I C E S O R O R I T Y
NATIONAL NEWSLETTER FOR
FALL 2013 | VOLUME 61, ISSUE 1
SORORITY TRANSFORMATION
FINANCIAL UPDATE
CONVENTION GROUP PHOTOS
ALUMNI IN ACTION
PHOTO CREDIT: GREEKYEARBOOK.COM
GAMMA KAPPA (KNOXVILLE, TN)
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Any mention of the 31st National Convention to the Gamma Sigma Sigma members in
attendance should invoke a smile and memories not to be forgotten. From the White Rose Alumni Chapter winning the Spirit Night competition to the speech given by Paula Goldberg at the Woman of the Year Luncheon, the time spent in St. Louis, MO was well worth it. The biennial Convention in Missouri was also a time marked by change and the theme therefore was very fitting---“Service: A Gateway to Change”.
This Convention was the first time members were able to sign-up to participate in an early-bird service project. In addition, on opening day, we were reminded to serve. Members had the opportunity to serve the St. Louis community by visiting the Habitat for Humanity Restore to assist with stocking shelves and clean-up. The service room was a regular fixture, but offered members the opportunity to participate in different projects throughout Convention. Members also received service hours for writing cards for those in the military, preparing care packages for parents who recently gave birth to premature babies, or assembling bags for Project Night Night.
The Convention binder emerged as a Convention booklet that was easy to carry around, aesthetically pleasing, and surprising to some, cost-efficient. General Session was also an adjustment for members. Delegates were introduced to clickers to cast their votes regarding official business and it left a lasting impression. Not only were the business operations a change of pace for attendees, but the entertainment activities had quite a spin to them as well.
Spirit Night began with Gamma Games that challenged participants’ knowledge of our beloved sorority and encouraged teamwork amongst each other.
Casino Night was definitely a night to remember! “Gamers” had their chance at roulette, poker, and blackjack---all in the name of fundraising for the Woman of the Year’s organization, PACER Center.
Another highlight of Convention was the effort of the sorority’s marketing. The revealing of the national website was a major highlight. National Marketing Director Aurelia Spaulding worked endless hours and tireless days to make sure the new website was up to Gamma Sig standards and it was! The former Social Media Coordinator and now District III Director, Ashley Robinson, live tweeted every step of convention and kept everyone up-to-date to make them feel as if they were in the Crowne-Plaza along with everyone in attendance.
The changes that were introduced at the 31st National Convention may seem minute to some, but they are evidence of the sorority’s commitment to forward progression and innovative practices. St. Louis opened the doors to another biennium that is sure to revolutionize the way the sorority conducts business and serves communities nationwide.
Sorority transformation slowly begins with
CONVENTION
SAVE THE DATE!32nd National Convention
July 2015Nashville, TN
BY TANJA BIBBS31st National Convention Chair
Karen Kerr, 31st National President, stated “the changes helped
elevate the Convention experience for our members with unique
events, better use of technology and creation of an excitement
that will carry us into the biennium.”
PHO
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PERSPECTIVES | GAMMA SIGMA SIGMA | 3
Happy Fall!
Fall time is almost here which means most of you are returning back to campuses ready for another exciting year! Your 31st National Board of Directors is excited to start the 2013-2015 biennium and want to invite you to join in our efforts to move the organization forward.
We have spent time setting goals for the organization and your contributions are critical to our success. The following are the goals that we have set and we have already started our work in a lot of these areas. Review these goals with your chapter /colony and as an individual member. I encourage you to contact me at [email protected] and let me know what you think you and/or your chapter/colony can do to help reach our goals.
1. Develop programs for leadership 2. Increase opportunities for networking 3. Promote opportunities for lifetime involvement 4. Increase participation at national events 5. Enhance district cohesiveness 6. Maintain a sustainable financial plan 7. Increase awareness of the national sorority 8. Ensure 100% of chapters receive a national visit during the biennium 9. Expand the number of collegiate chapters 10. Provide membership development and education opportunities 11. Advance recruitment and retention efforts 12. Facilitate positive connections and collaborations between alumni and collegiate
members 13. Promote a National Service Program 14. Increase participation with service partners 15. Increase the number of inter-chapter service projects
Many thanks to members for signing up to volunteer for our committees! There was an overwhelming response this summer. Congratulations to all of the new committee members. Close to 70 members were appointed to serve on a committee or to serve as an assistant.
It is exciting to witness the new committees for the 2013-2014 year and what is being planned. From the Alumni Committee constructing a new Alumni Directory, to our Service Committee planning projects for our upcoming Day of Service and beyond, to our Program Committee creating new ways for us to connect on a sorority and professional level, there is so much happening! Every committee chairperson has big plans for their committee over the year. The overall goal of committees is to create new ways to serve and to unite with each other.
Even though committees have been chosen, there will be more volunteer opportunities coming throughout the year. Just by the amount of Prospective National Worker submissions received this summer, it is obvious that members want to help to make the sorority the best it can be. I pledge to create those opportunities for you. It is through involvement in our organization that you feel the most invested. Your ideas and willingness to work truly do make a difference in Gamma Sig! The next opportunity to apply for committees will be during July of 2014-and I encourage you to apply and GET INVOLVED!
A Message from Our President
National committees embarking on new ways to
SERVE
KAREN FLORES KERRNational President
RANITA LOPEZNational Vice President
PRESIDENTKaren Kerr
VICE PRESIDENTRanita Lopez
TREASURERJennifer Wilson
SERVICE DIRECTORTracy Kolodziek
MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORAshley Jennings
ALUMNI DIRECTORKaren Erickson
PROGRAM DIRECTORJennifer Baker
MARKETING DIRECTORAurelia Spaulding
DISTRICT 1 DIRECTORCortney Deshaies
DISTRICT 2 DIRECTORJenna Hershelman
DISTRICT 3 DIRECTORAshley Robinson
DISTRICT 4 DIRECTORKeli Connor
DISTRICT 5 DIRECTORKaty Haynes Owens
DISTRICT 6 DIRECTORTanisha Cousby
DISTRICT 7 DIRECTORDanielle Timmons
DISTRICT 8 DIRECTORCristal Johnson
PARLIAMENTARIANDemetria Curry
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The sorority’s financial state is a matter that is privy to everyone in the general membership. The income and spending over the last biennium is below as well as the budget report. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the National Treasurer, Jennifer Wilson at [email protected].
FinancialUPDATE
The two charts on the left show the income and the spending reported from the 2011-2013 biennium. As you can see, the largest income has come from membership dues.
The spending chart shows the largest amount was spent on the National Board of Directors (NBD) needs. These needs include chapter visits, administrative assistant fees, emergency visits, marketing materials and whatever the NBD would need for day to day activities.
The projected spending chart shows the largest amount again to be spent on the NBD needs. But there is also an increase on the amount of Travel Pool paid out. This is due to a policy change in the amount distributed for each National Event.
Actual Income 2011-2013 Actual Spending 2011-2013 Projected Income 2013-2015 Projected Spending 2013-2015
The two charts on the right show the projected income and the spending reported for the 2013-2015 biennium. As you can see, the largest income is expected to come from membership dues.
Bud
get
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BY JENNIFER WILSONNational Treasurer
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During the 2013 National Convention, members exercised their right vote on various bylaw proposals to help aid in the growth and development of the national organization. Below are just a few of the major changes you can expect to see in the updated national bylaws. Please refer to the Member’s section of the national
website for the approved copy of the 2013 National Bylaws.
• In response to the growth of the national organization and to provide better resources to technology, service opportunities and leadership development/education a gradual increase in fees provides a positive approach in providing such resources. On November 1st, collegiate members will now be expected to pay $70.00 ($50.00 national dues and $20.00 travel pool) and alumni members will be expected to pay $40.00 ($20.00 national dues and $20.00 travel pool). An increase of membership-in-training fees also took a $5.00 increase as members-in-training will now be expected to pay $25.00 for membership-in-training fees.
• A new addition to the National Bylaws now gives the National Board of Directors the power to expel any member from the sorority for violation of the Sorority’s Standard Policy of Risk Management by ¾ votes.
• The number of alumni to petition to become an alumni colony has decreased from 8 members to 6. The colony must also maintain 6 members in order to be granted a charter by the National Board of directors. Decreasing this number will hopefully make it less challenging for alumni members to form an alumni chapter.
During each convention, the national sorority recognizes the outstanding efforts of a woman and her unwavering
contributions to the community. The Woman of the Year Award is one of the highest honors that Gamma Sigma Sigma bestows on a person within the community. This year’s recipient, Paula Goldberg, Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Parent Advocacy Coalition for Educational Rights (PACER) organization, was nominated by the Twin Cities Alumni Chapter for her efforts and contributions to her local, statewide, national, and international communities.
Ms. Goldberg is known for advocating and establishing resources for children and young adults with disabilities and their families and most recently her efforts in regards to bullying prevention and awareness. There are a growing number of students who are struggling with having a cognitive or physical disability yearly and the services available are being decreased or eliminated due to the lack of funding or support. There is another growing concern in our schools---the impact and effects of bullying on our youth, with and without disabilities. It is crucial to
Members encouraged to continue WOY Paula Golberg’s efforts on
UNITY DAY
Changes to National Bylaws
PROMOTE GROWTH OF SORORITY
DEMETRIA CURRYNational Parliamentarian
have services such as the ones Ms. Goldberg’s organization offers to help educate students and communities in an age-appropriate manner the ramifications of bullying and it’s emotional and physical effects left on an individual who is subjected to bullying.
October is National Bullying Prevention Month. Join the sorority on October 9th to stand up against bullying. You are encouraged to wear orange on Unity Day and help promote awareness on your campus or local area schools. Sponsor a unity dance; submit a story, poem, or video to PACER; organize your community’s own Run, Walk, or Roll against Bullying; or set up an informational table in your student union and hand out unity ribbons with bullying statistics.
Here are other ways on how to get involved: • Participate in Unity Day (October 9th) by
sponsoring an informational table on campus to educate students on the impacts of bullying and how widespread the issue is
• Wear orange on Unity Day (October 9th) and pass out information attached to orange ribbons to students on campus
• Create a Unity Talk on the Campus Radio Station to raise awareness
• Create a Public Service Announcement (PSA) against bullying, poem, or short story and submit it to www.pacer.org
• Host a unity dance for youth in the community
For more information, please email [email protected] or visit: http://www.pacer.org/bullying to download your bullying prevention toolkit.
BY TRACY KOLODZIEKNational Service Director
PHOTO CREDIT: GREEKYEARBOOK.COM
PHOTO CREDIT: GREEKYEARBOOK.COM
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Gamma Sigma Sigma National Service Sorority, Inc. is pleased to present The National Days of
Service to be held between October 5th and October 12th, 2013. The purpose is to unite collegiates and alumni in service to our National Service Partners, Woman of the Year initiatives, and Project I.M.P.A.C.T. areas.
Chapters who post their scheduled service projects to the online national calendar by visiting: www.gammasigmasigma.org will be eligible to consider their project as an inter-chapter project, if other events benefiting the same Service Partner or organization are listed.
Service Partnerships are a networking process in which Gamma Sigma Sigma joins forces with and assists other service
GET READY!The National Days of Service are Coming
NATIONAL CONFERENCESoffer revamped workshops and sessions
organizations to provide a concentrated level of service to the nation. The sorority has partnerships with the American Red Cross, Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, The March of Dimes, The American Cancer Society, and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (M.A.D.D.). Our newest Project I.M.P.A.C.T. areas are Healthy Living and Domestic Violence Prevention and Awareness. October is National Bullying Awareness & Prevention Month, a main initiative of our Woman of the Year Paula Goldberg. Unity Day is October 9th and helps support Ms. Goldberg and her work with the PACER Center.
NATIONAL DAYS OF SERVICEOctober 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, and 10th – Service Partners– ACS, ALSF, ARC, MADD, or MOD
October 9th – Unity Day – Stand Up to Bullying– Support our Woman of the Year
October 11th & 12th – Project I.M.P.A.C.T. Areas– Healthy Living / Domestic Abuse Awareness & Prevention
TRACY KOLODZIEKNational Service Director
JENNIFER BAKERNational Program Director
Every biennium, National Conferences bring together the amazing membership of the sorority for a series of motivating workshops
and networking sessions. Last biennium, over two hundred members attended one day conferences to exchange ideas, expand their sorority knowledge, and build connections. This biennium, conference activities are being spread over the course of two days and aim to more than double the number of attendees. In light of the recent policy change increasing conference travel pool from $120 per chapter to $250 per chapter, each chapter should be able to attend a conference this biennium.
Attending a conference this biennium will be a highly positive and invaluable experience. Conferences will offer attendees an opportunity to dive deeper into relevant issues that chapters face every day such as branding, marketing, creating membership action plans, developing chapter history, amending parliamentarian documents and learning the skills necessary to become a nationally recognized award winning chapter.
Check the national website for updates, announcement of dates and locations over the coming weeks. Registration details will be available to all chapters in late October.
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Barbara V. Ferraro Outstanding Collegiate Service Program, 1st Place Eta Omicron
Marvyn Glover Award, Dee Carter (Gemini Alumni)
Project I.M.P.A.C.T. Award (Collegiate), Zeta Omicron
2013 National Convention
AWARD WINNERS
Woman of the Year/Honorary Member - Paula Goldberg, PACER Center
Marvyn Glover Award – Dee Carter and Ranita (Williams) Lopez
Distinguished Service Award – Allison Bivens, Gamma Phi
Service Merit Award • Beta Gamma Chapter at the University of Delaware for Cape Henlopen
project • Tau Chapter at Penn State University for THON project • Chi Chapter at the University of Georgia for Charity Challenge project • Zeta Omicron Chapter at Georgia College & State University for Lemon Face
project • Twin Cities Alumni Chapter for Prairie Lodge project
Outstanding Advisor Award • Dr. Andrea Everard, Beta Gamma at the University of Delaware • Heather Novak, Eta Tau at Pace University • Caitlin Kelly, Eta Tau at Pace University
Rosalie Powell Award Tamara D. Sanders, White Rose Alumni Lametria Johnson, White Rose Alumni
Outstanding Collegiate Award • Leah Diamant, Beta Gamma at the University of Delaware • Laura Strickland, Beta Gamma at the University of Delaware • Ann Fanger, Alpha Iota at the University of Minnesota - Duluth • Danielle Lackey, Delta Gamma at the University of Arkansas • Rebecca Travaglini, Delta Gamma at the University of Arkansas • Joanna Williams, Beta Sigma at Western Kentucky University
Pat Saul Outstanding District Director Award – Jenna Hershelman
Emerging Leader Award • Anastasia Morrison, Epsilon Beta at Clemson University • Lauren Guerrido, Eta Zeta at Spelman University • Jen Nestor, Zeta at Drexel University • Taylor Kiley, Chi at the University of Georgia • Erin Smith, Eta Rho at Old Dominion University • Bridget Hall, Alumni-at-large • Shaneka Wallace, Zeta Theta at Jacksonville State University
Lynne Mowers Outstanding Leadership Award Anastasia Morrison, Epsilon Beta at Clemson University
Inter-Chapter Relations Award • Beta Gamma, University of Delaware – United in Service project • Bluegrass Alumni – Take Back the Night project • Beta Sigma, Western Kentucky University – Take Back the Night • Twin Cities Alumni – Hosting District 1 Service Days Twice Per Year • Gamma Pi, Carson Newman College – Run to Inspire the Girls 5K Run/Walk • White Rose Alumni – IC Bowl-a-thon; Kicking for Change; Royal Tea; Slumber
Party; White Rose Formal Ball • Mid-Jersey Shore Alumni – Hurricane Sandy Efforts
Project I.M.P.A.C.T. AwardOverall Project I.M.P.A.C.T. – Collegiate - Zeta Omicron, 2170 hrs and Alumni - Yellow Rose, 552 hrsDiabetes Awareness and Prevention Collegiate – Zeta Omicron, 878.5 hrs and Alumni - Houston Bayou City, 131 hrs Youth with Disabilities Collegiate – Chi, 1471.5 hrs and Alumni - Greater Baltimore, 289.25 hrs
Margaret M. Linton Outstanding Collegiate Chapter Award 1st – Eta Omicron, Elizabeth City State University2nd – Gamma Phi, Saint Francis University3rd – Beta Gamma, University of Delaware
Barbara V. Ferraro Outstanding Collegiate Service Program Award1st – Eta Omicron, Elizabeth City State University2nd – Eta Xi, Penn State -Behrend & Eta Pi, Gannon University3rd – Beta Sigma, Western Kentucky University
Margaret H. Zimmerman Award1st – Gemini, 2nd – Nutmeg, and 3rd – Houston Bayou City
Mary E. Scout Award1st – Gemini, 2nd – Nutmeg, and 3rd – Greater Baltimore
Char Scott National Outstanding Volunteer Award (NOVA) – Jennifer Wilson
Spirit of Gamma Sig Award • Zeta, Drexel University • Tau, Penn State University • Eta Xi, Penn State - Behrend
50 Years of Service Recognition – Mary Ann Carr, Kay Reiners, Patricia Wesolek, Janet Smart, Chipper Debuskey, Mary Scout, Sharon Mastoon, Maryanne Danforth, Babs Stabler, and Janet Metz
PHOTO CREDIT: GREEKYEARBOOK.COM
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It is so exciting to begin working with the Alpha Eta, Gamma Chi, Zeta Psi, Eta Alpha,
and Alpha Kappa Reactivating Chapters; as well as the University of North Florida, Wright State
University, Kennesaw State University, and Lamar University Colonies! So far, these groups are preparing
to embark on the awesome Project 5-2 journey. They are enhancing their knowledge of Gamma Sigma Sigma and preparing for a successful 2013-2014 service filled year.
Colonies and reactivating chapters are provided unlimited resources to assist them in achieving charter status. These dedicated groups are working extremely hard to grow our sorority in the name of “Service, Friendship, & Equality”.
During the last year, three petitions were accepted by the National Alumni Director from the Lebanon Valley Alumni Colony in Pennsylvania, the First Coast Alumni Colony and the Bi-Coastal Florida Alumni Colony, both in Florida.
Interest in starting new alumni chapters has risen since Convention 2013, with requests from across the country. Current interest groups are in Maryland, Florida, New York, Tennessee, Mississippi, Michigan, Maine, California and Virginia.
Any alumni members interested in joining any of these colonies or interest groups, as well as starting a colony or reactivating an alumni chapter, should contact Karen Erickson, the National Alumni Director, at [email protected].
Colonies and Reactivating Chapters continue to Grow
Alumni colonies and interest groups sprout in new locationsBY KAREN ERICKSON, National Alumni Director
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In addition, the inquiries are coming in from schools across the country interested in bringing Gamma Sigma Sigma to their campuses!
The sorority is proud to welcome the new membership committee and assistants who contribute so much to the efforts of improving membership opportunities for the sorority. On behalf of the colonies, reactivating chapters and membership committee/assistants thank you for your support!
ASHLEY JENNINGSNational Membership Director
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First Coast Alumni devotes summer to helping children
Attention Boston and
Rhode Island!
FLORIDA - First Coast Alumni Colony was busy over the summer. Members participated in Alex Lemonade Stand’s national week by hosting the 1st Annual Lemonade games. Teams from around the city came to compete against each other to raise money for the fight against childhood cancer. Field games that were played included the lemon race, the lemon drop and the competition for the city’s best lemonade. Over $200 was raised for Alex’s Lemonade stand.
Colony members also participated in a Back-to-School Jam, where 16 backpacks filled with school supplies were donated
An alumni interest group is being formed in your area. Meetings/Service Projects planned for:
September 14, 2013 Warwick,RI October 12, 2013 Boston, MA November 16, 2013 Foxboro, MA December 14, 2013 Providence, RI
Email Phyllis Horridge for more details: [email protected]. Hope you can join!
to students who were in need. Over 100 backpacks in total were given away to children in need. The chapter was proud to be a part of a program that ensured each child was given supplies they need in order to be successful. First Coast Alumni interacted with the kids and talked to them about what their favorite subjects were and what part of school they were looking forward to in the upcoming year.
To keep up with other First Coast Alumni events, check visit their website www.gssnf1952.wix.com/northflorida or on Facebook at facebook.com/firstcoastalumni.
#gssservice
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collegiateCHATTER
DULUTH, MN - Throughout the school year, Alpha Iota participates in multiple service projects to raise money and contribute to the March of Dimes. Some projects include football and hockey babies, along with volunteering at the Chef Auction to raise money to go towards helping premature infants.
On April 27th, 2013 the March of Dimes held their annual March for Babies at the University of Minnesota, Duluth which Alpha Iota helped to make yet another one of their successful events. The members decorated a stroller, helped with set-up, handed out cotton candy, and of course cheered on the wonderful members of the community walking for the cause. Over the year, Alpha Iota contributed a total of over $2,000 to donate to the March of Dimes.
This past convention, Alpha Iota was honored to be presented with the March of Dimes award for 2013. The members cannot wait to see what their future success will be with this
organization.
BETA PHI DONATE TO BRICK CAMPAIGNLYNCHBURG, VA - Lynchburg College in Virginia is undertaking a $12 million project of reconstructing the Burton Student Center on campus. As a means of gathering donations for the Student Center, the college launched a “Brick Campaign” that gave alumni the opportunity to purchase customized bricks. With the help of former Chapter President, Dara Fox, alumni of the Beta Phi chapter pitched in to purchase a brick that will read: ‘Gamma Sigma Sigma, Beta Phi, Unity in Service’. The Chapter may be inactive, but the name and memory will remain.
BETA CHI CONNECTS TO STUDENTS WITH CAITLIN’S SMILESANNVILLE, PA - As always, Beta Chi started the new school year off with service! Lebanon Valley College stresses the importance of community service and helping others and incorporates a service project into new student orientation. Over a two hour time period, more than twelve clubs, organizations, sororities, and fraternities come together to introduce the new students to this important part of being a Dutchman. Beta Chi chose to inform the new students of the chapter’s service partners, especially Caitlin’s Smiles, which was the project of the day. Each student created a bag or bags and bookmark or bookmarks to go to a special child. One of the new students was especially excited when he arrived to Beta Chi’s table because he had a personal connection to Caitlin’s Smiles. This new student has a nephew that is currently battling cancer and is at the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center who actually received one of the bags from Beta Chi. All of the members know that their service does make a difference, however when someone is able to make a connection and tell us how much of a difference was made, the service only means that much more!
BOWLING GREEN, KY - The Beta Sigma Chapter of Gamma Sigma Sigma has recently elected new officers, created new annual events, and soon will be taking in new members. The chapter is excited to host events on campus this year. One of the new events is kickball, Relay for Life and a Powder Puff game held in April for March of Dimes. Beta Sigma is looking forward to bringing in new members and keeping community
service first!
ALPHA IOTA PARTNERS WITH MARCH OF DIMES
BETA SIGMA EXCITED FOR NEW EVENTS
AND MEMBERS
PERSPECTIVES | GAMMA SIGMA SIGMA | 13
collegiateCHATTER
ORONO, ME - A Delta Nu Chapter favorite is the project Late Night Local (L.N.L). The project idea is to prevent drunk driving of fellow peers and the campus community by providing safe rides home. A member from Delta Nu pairs up with a member of their brother fraternity, Alpha Delta, to drive a large passenger van on Friday and Saturday nights during the semester from 9pm-2am. Each night the chapter starts by contacting the campus police and hitting the road seeking walkers who are in need of a ride! Delta Nu’s goal is to provide help by being the alternative to students driving themselves home, accepting rides from intoxicated friends, or from being stuck walking a distance in the harsh Maine weather. Members of the University of Maine’s campus love seeing the L.N.L and always wave Delta Nu
down with enthusiasm as they drive near!
NASHVILLE, TN - In the spring of 2013, the Epsilon Psi Chapter held their annual chapter banquet. Members enjoyed dinner with some alumni members along with the White Rose Alumni Chapter. The food was great and everyone in the chapter received positions for the fall 2013-2014 school year. All in attendance discussed great ideas and offered immense encouragement to the Epsilon Psi Chapter. The new officers of Epsilon Psi were extremely honored to be chosen to serve Gamma Sigma Sigma National Service Sorority Inc., for the
upcoming school year and many more to come.
DELTA NU PROVIDE SAFE ALTERNATIVE TO UMAINE’S STUDENTS
EPSILON PSI OFFICERS READY TO SERVE
ETA XI PREPARES FOR A BUSY SEMESTER FILLED WITH SERVICEERIE, PA - To kick off the year, Eta Xi has a few events to attend, and a few to host! The chapter plans to “Adopt a Troop” in one participation event hosted by university food-service staff. During recruitment, service projects will be incorporated into seminars to show potential members what Gamma Sig is all about! Later in the semester, the chapter will work with Habitat for Humanity to improve homes in the Erie community. The largest spring event is always LemonFest, run by the chapter’s own Erin Stroup. This year, a Behrend fraternity, Kappa Delta Rho, is lending a helping hand for the Alex’s Lemonade Stand walk. The Eta Pi chapter is also excited about LemonFest, and will hopefully be joining up with Eta Xi in years to come.
Eta Xi wishes everyone luck for the semester and hopes to hear from some members soon!
ZETA CHAPTER INSPIRED BY CONVENTION TO CONTINUE SERVINGPHILADELPHIA, PA - The Zeta chapter at Drexel University was inspired by their trip to national convention and cannot wait to start the new school year! Zeta is looking forward to incorporating the healthy living and domestic violence awareness and prevention Project I.M.P.A.C.T areas. The partnership the chapter has created with the People’s Emergency Center, a battered women’s shelter, will serve the project I.M.P.A.C.T. area perfectly. Not only does the chapter work on projects involving the members of the shelter to beautify the community and donate holiday cards to the residents, but they volunteer at the food cupboard that works to distribute healthy food to the community as well. The chapter is even trying to set up a day to read Spookley the Square Pumpkin to the children at the shelter in honor of the Woman of the Year’s PACER foundation. Zeta is looking forward to a great, service-filled year!
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collegiateCHATTER
BETHLEHEM, PA - Epsilon Xi held a fantastic Spirit Day at Moravian College last spring in April that was attended by members in District 2, 3 and 4. It was a huge success with six local chapters participating, including alumni. The day consisted of icebreaker games, Gamma Sigma Sigma history jeopardy, and service projects. Epsilon Xi taught the visiting chapters how to make their own lettered t-shirts. Together the chapters learned about each other by presenting information about their history, leadership techniques, and service experiences.
Epsilon Xi also held a very successful St. Patrick’s Day Jello Dive, participated in The Muscle Walk Rally hosted by the MDA, made lunch for the Salvation Army, took part in many bake sales, and had a fantastic spring formal.
As the chapter continues to grow, Epsilon Xi looks forward to meeting new MITs, partaking in the homecoming parade, and performing various service projects.
GAMMA PI PLANNING RONALD MCDONLAD HOUSE VISITSJEFFERSON CITY, TN - Throughout this semester Gamma Pi plans on making visits to the Ronald McDonald House located in Knoxville, TN. Ronald McDonald House provides a temporary residence for families of seriously ill children receiving treatment at nearby hospitals. The house provides a temporary residence near the medical facility in a comfortable and supportive setting. The members of Gamma Sigma Sigma from Carson-Newman University assist at the house to try and make the lives of these families just a little bit easier. While at the Ronald McDonald House, the members may make home-cooked meals for the families, help clean the house or anything else that needs assistance. This is a great opportunity for the members of Gamma Sigma Sigma to work together and help those in need.
KNOXVILLE, TN - After ringing out the 2013 spring semester with High Tea and formal, Gamma Kappa has many more exciting things planned for the fall. This year’s M.I.T. Project is called “Race Through Rocky Top,” which is a sort of relay through the hills of the University of Tennessee’s campus. Even though it is a “M.I.T. Project”, members and other organizations and groups can also participate in the relay! All proceeds go to the chapter’s main philanthropy, the Salvation Army. In addition to the big project, members continue to do weekly service at the Salvation Army and Boys and Girls Clubs. After receiving new Members-In-Training, a fun retreat to Gatlinburg is planned for everyone to get to know each other
better through engaging activities.
EPSILON XI HOSTS FUN-FILLED SPIRIT DAY
GAMMA KAPPA FINISHED WITH HIGH
TEA, READY TO “RACE THROUGH ROCKY TOP”
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ALUMNI IN ACTION
ALUMNI MEMBERSHIP TO FIT YOUR NEEDS
Currently there are 24 active alumni chapters performing service in the name of Gamma Sigma Sigma. The two newest chapters, River Region Garnets and Pearls Alumni and the Tri-State Alumni, were chartered during April 2013.
The requirements of an alumni chapter are designed for members with busy lives. Membership is smaller, with members being part of a chapter for many years. Most chapter members have close friendship ties with each other. Alumni chapter members participate in interesting projects and events like chili fundraisers, Easter Egg hunts, Special Olympics bowling, summer socials and Sunday brunches. Members interested in joining a chapter should contact the National Alumni Director at [email protected] for more information about a chapter near them.
Alumni not able to join an alumni chapter due to location or time commitment are classified as alumni-at-large; and are asked to report their service hours for inclusion in the national profile by submitting the Alumni-at-Large Service Report annually. This report is available from the National Alumni Director and is also on the national website. For service ideas and to locate alumni-at-large in your area, please join the Gamma Sigma Sigma Official Alumni-at-Large group on Facebook.
GREATER ATLANTA ALUMNI KICKED OFF AUGUST WITH “ALUMNI MEET AND G T”
ATLANTA, GA - The Greater Atlanta Alumni Chapter (GAAC) had a busy summer filled with service and social activities. In May, members hosted a Senior Send Off dinner for graduating seniors from Eta Zeta, Zeta Omega and Zeta Tau. Later that week, the GAAC spent Mother’s Day serving food at the Reliable Nursing Home for their annual Mother’s Day Brunch.
In July, the GAAC held its annual chapter retreat in Ellijay, GA. During the retreat, members held officer elections, planned their service and social calendar for the upcoming year and went on a nature hike in the mountains.
On August 28, the chapter hosted its first “Alumni Meet and G T” to kick off the 2013-2014 school year, meet current and prospective members and share information on upcoming service projects. The event was a success and was attended by prospective members, alumni-at-large members and a member of the Atlanta Metropolitan Alumni Chapter.
KAREN ERICKSONNational Alumni Director
AMAC PLANNED WEEKEND WITH ANNUAL BRUNCH AND FUNDRAISERS
ATLANTA, GA - The Atlanta Metropolitan Alumni Chapter recently held their AMAC Weekend including an Annual Alumni Brunch, Macy’s Shop For A Cause and a fundraising event at Chili’s Bar & Grill. The theme for the weekend was ‘Three Times the Charm.’
The Alumni Brunch is held annually to provide information about membership into Gamma Sigma Sigma and continuing or transitioning membership into the sorority after their collegiate years. This year’s brunch was inspired by the attire worn at the Kentucky Derby and guests were encouraged to wear sundresses and big hats. At the brunch, the chapter collected school supply items including pencils, notebook paper and crayons which were donated to a local Atlanta area school.
The fundraising events were held at Chili’s where a portion of the day’s proceeds were donated to AMAC. Members also sold Macy’s Shop For A Cause coupons the entire week of the event. Overall, it was a weekend of networking, food, fun, and service to the community.
GAMMA SIGGGGGGGGGGGAAAAAAAAAAMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMAAAAAAAAAAA SSSSSSSSSSSSIIIIIIIIIGGGGGGGGGGGMA SIMMMMMMMMMMMMMAAAAAAAAAAA SSSSSSSSSSSSIIIIIIIIIGGGGGGGGGGGMAMMMMMMMMMMMMMAAAAAAAAAAAc/o Barbara HorterNational Database CoordinatorPO BOX 248Rindge, NH 03461
Change Service Requested
ALUMNI IN ACTIONGEMINI ALUMNI RECOGNIZED WITH AWARDS AT CONVENTIONPENNSYLVANIA - Gemini Alumni Chapter is currently seven members strong, but that does not stop them from serving the community as much as they do. Gemini meets every other month from September through May; and during non-meeting months, the chapter schedules at least two service projects. The chapter’s service program is really diverse with projects such as Gift of Life (organ donation), Ronald McDonald House, Books thru Bars, and AIDS walk. The chapter also incorporates working with national service partners such as Alex’s Lemonade Stand and March of Dimes.
The above information is only a small glimpse into the activities and accomplishments Gemini Alumni has under its belt. The chapter was recently bestowed with the honor of 1st place award winners for the Margaret H. Zimmerman Outstanding Alumni Chapter Award at the 31st National Convention. The chapter was also recognized as 1st place recipients of the Mary E. Scout Award for outstanding alumni chapter service program.
Besides serving the community, the chapter also has an annual holiday potluck brunch, polyanna, summer outing which alternates between bowling and miniature golf, game nights, and fellowshipping at local eateries. Gemini Alumni members are also active at the national level by participating and attending conferences, Spirit Days, and National Convention.
Anyone is invited to attend the chapter meetings, service projects and/or social events. For more information, please contact them at [email protected].
BLUEGRASS ALUMNI EXCITED ABOUT PROJECT I.M.P.A.C.T. NOMINATIONKENTUCKY - The members of the Bluegrass Alumni Chapter were elated to hear their nomination of Healthy Living was selected as one of the Project I.M.P.A.C.T. areas for the next biennium. The chapter has long discussed submitting a nomination and it was a no brainer for healthy living since it is a topic near and dear to all the members. Along with efforts geared towards the other I.M.P.A.C.T. area domestic violence, the chapter plans on devoting time to this initiative and are excited to serve the community in both aspects. The chapter looks forward to participating in The National Days of Service in October and possibly partnering with Beta Sigma of Western Kentucky University for some projects throughout the week. Annually, the Bluegrass Alumni provides holiday baskets to families in need and are proud at the opportunity to continue to give this year as well.
PRSRT STDUS POSTAGE
PAIDHARRISBURG, PAPERMIT NO. 411
