P hoenixSpring 2012 | Volume 98
of
page 16
ASA 2012-15 strategic plan page 10 National council slate announced
page 22 Sorority formals of days past
MeMbers of the epsilon epsilon Chapter at eMporia state University, Ks. see More Collegiate and alUMnae photos in the distriCt news seCtion.
28
FEATURES
Cover Story, page 16:
ASA 2012-15 strategic plan
8
22
28PHOTO CREDIT: DElTa SIgma CHaPTER
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 3
SpRing 2012 CONTENTS
DEpARTMEnTS
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8
10
14
22
25
Editor’s desk
From the president
Foundation news
District news
News & events
From the archives
Theta Rho Chapter installation
Theta Sigma Chapter installation
Nominating committee announces national council slate for 2012-14
Volunteer thank you
Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority formals of days past
ASA 47th Biennial National Convention & Leadership Conference highlights
4
5
27
28
30
31
PHOTO CREDIT: PERSOnal COllECTIOn Of maRIlyn RamSEy gaRbEE, bS
PHOTO CREDIT: KaTIE maTIS, dh
12
COvER PHOTO CREDIT: gREEK yEaRbOOK
Dear readers,
This has been a fun issue of the Phoenix
to compile as the editor. While working
on this issue, i spent time in the sorority
archives, looking for photographs of our
chapters in the 1940s and 1950s. it is always
interesting to look through old sorority
photographs and old issues of the Phoenix and be reminded of
the sorority’s history.
i also had the opportunity to work with the talented women on our
national council to create a visual image for Alpha Sigma Alpha’s
strategic plan for 2012-15. The goal areas we focus on in our next
strategic plan are all very meaningful and will help advance the sorority.
i hope you find this issue to be a good balance of reading about
the sorority’s history and our exciting future. Please enjoy reading
and reflecting on Alpha Sigma Alpha’s past and what’s to come in
the future.
in Alpha Sigma Alpha,
erika Ann Butts Phoenix editor
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
editorErika Ann Butts, [email protected]
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
EdiTOr’S DESK
4 phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Spring 2012
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
P hoenixof
Volume 98, Number2
EdiTOr’S DESK
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 5
in the Panhellenic world, when the word “legacy” is mentioned,
one’s mind automatically goes to recruitment and the many women
who are daughters, sisters, granddaughters and nieces of members.
As a relatively new mom, i was able to recently personally entertain
the thought of having a “legacy” of my very own. When i discovered
i was having a boy, i recall sharing the exciting news with sorority
sisters, but telling them sadly i would not be providing a legacy
for Alpha Sigma Alpha.
Reflecting on that comment, i realize there is a different way to
view and define “legacy” and i, as well as all of my sisters, could
definitely leave a legacy for Alpha Sigma Alpha. What lasting impact
would i want to have on my organization? Participants in the 2011
emma Coleman Frost Leadership Development institute had the
opportunity to truly explore this concept as they discovered and
developed their personal leadership and discussed the type of
legacy they would want to leave behind. What an incredibly
unique leadership lesson for young leaders!
When i started volunteering for the sorority in 1994, i am
sure i had not given much thought at the time to what kind of
legacy i would provide. i was simply enjoying my experience
and hoping to provide service where i was most needed. As the
years have gone by and i have gained an increasing awareness and
appreciation for lifetime membership, i see it as my responsibility
to help model the way for members who follow in my footsteps.
i love the opportunity to talk with sisters to learn about their
passions, leadership and contributions and to help nurture and
encourage their own personal development. it is my hope that
both my involvement as well as my encouragement of others to
actively maintain their lifetime commitment will be a legacy that
i can share.
i have learned many lessons and experienced much personal
development over the years—to which much of it i can attribute to
my involvement with Alpha Sigma Alpha. i hope that i can model
an appreciation for intellectual and spiritual growth as well as the
importance of healthy living and cultivation of close friendships.
The art of balance, obligation of integrity and significance of
leadership and service also are lessons learned from the sorority
that i would like to pass on.
i think of the many truly amazing people in my life who have come
before me, walked beside me and have entered my life at various
stages that have, oftentimes unknowingly, left legacies for me. They
have guided and inspired me and i feel so very fortunate to have
them to follow.
And as we celebrate national Volunteer Appreciation Week this
month, i am thankful for the hundreds of volunteers involved
in Alpha Sigma Alpha who are leaving their legacy and inspiring
others. They are giving of themselves unselfishly for the betterment
of the sorority. Their leadership and vision are ensuring that
Alpha Sigma Alpha continues to be a vital force on campuses,
in the fraternal community and across the country. My sincere
appreciation is shared with each and every one of our amazing
volunteers. Thank you for leaving your legacy!
in Alpha Sigma Alpha,
BY CiNdY KELLEY, bP | nATiOnAL pRESiDEnT
SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS
Leaving a legacy
FROM THE PrESidENT
6 phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Spring 2012
Between September 2011 and installation
weekend, the colony women accepted
and worked through the challenge of
colony development. They worked on
their FoCUS plan, creating sisterhood
and stepped beyond what many expected
of them to do by becoming something
different. Something that would make not
only a strong impact on the Canyon, Tx,
community but also make an impact on
every sister’s life.
All of the hard work paid off when
installation weekend arrived in mid-
november. The women of the Theta Rho
Chapter were joined by members of the
Theta xi Chapter from the University
of Texas at el Paso, Theta Rho Chapter
advisors and other volunteers in the
celebration of their achievements. The
installation team included national Vice
President of operations Melissa Koch
Merriam, EE; Membership Growth
Coordinator Katie Matis, dh; Colony
Development Coordinator Jessica Bridwell
McKenna, ZP, Leadership Consultant
Brittany McGuire, ZT, and heather Riley,
FF, a colony recruitment specialist.
on nov. 11, the chapter kicked off the
festivities with the We Are Buffs reception. The
women celebrated their achievements with
have you ever seen a buffalo do “The
Wobble?” Those who attended the
installation weekend for West Texas A&M
University’s Theta Rho Chapter of Alpha
Sigma Alpha experienced this first hand.
“The Wobble” is a dance similar to the
“electric Slide” that infected the women’s
experience since day one in their journey
to become a chapter. The buffalo is the
mascot for West Texas A&M University,
and of course, participated in the dancing
too. What is the importance of this dance?
The answer to that question is simple in the
eyes of the Theta Rho Chapter women: the
chapter that dances together stays together.
THETA RHO SiSTErS
Theta Rho Chapter installed on Nov. 12, 2011
BY BriTTaNY MCGUirE, ZT | lEaDERSHIP COnSulTanT
Theta Rho Chapter members pictured with their charter at their installation banquet.
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 7
of their achievements. Brittany McGuire,
ZT, served as the toastmistress for the
evening. Matt Maples, the associate
director of student activities and Alpha
Tau omega alumnus, shared his philosophy
behind being a member of the fraternity
and sorority community as the keynote
speaker. The traditional “Aspire, Seek, Attain”
toasts were given by Jessica Deharo, ΘΞ,
heather Riley, FF, and Melissa Koch
Merriam, EE. Brittany and Melissa led
the circle of friendship ceremony to unveil
the Theta Rho Chapter charter. The night
concluded with a video created by the
heritage committee commemorating the
colony’s philanthropic work, sisterhood
events and social activities leading up to
their installation.
“Being a part of the colony is an experience
of a lifetime that i wish more sisters could
be a part of,” said emily LeGrande, charter
member of Theta Rho Chapter. “it allowed
us to create amazing bonds that can only be
found through the challenges and victories
that colony life brought. My memories will
always be treasured, but i’m so excited to
see what Theta Rho brings us in the future.”
representatives from campus organizations
and administration. Later that evening, the
women hosted the We Are Ladybugs reception
for sisters of Alpha Sigma Alpha. Visiting
collegians, volunteers and the installation
team let their hair down, played some
school yard games and showed off their
Alpha Sigma Alpha cheers and dance moves.
Saturday, nov. 12, 2011, the women took
their oath as Alpha Sigma Alpha members
during the Sanctuary Degree Service. The
West Texas A&M Colony was installed as
the Theta Rho Chapter during the Service
for installation of a new Chapter and
the morning ended with the Service for
installation of Collegiate Chapter officers.
A white luncheon was held at the
conclusion of the ritual services.
Jessica Bridwell McKenna, ZP, served
as the toastmistress for the luncheon.
The chapter received gifts from the
national organization and collegiate
and alumnae chapters. The chapter then
presented gifts to the installation team,
including a pair of cowboy boots to their
leadership consultant.
A formal banquet was held Saturday night.
Family and friends of the Theta Rho
Chapter joined the women in celebration
New initiates Cori Bowser
Lori Carbajal
Trazi Cooper
Ashley Cravey
Whitney Crecelius
Tamara Crooks
Melanie Diaz
Cali DiOrio-Saye
Brenda Enriquez
Leanna Espinosa
Ana Gloria Garcia Luviano
Desarae Georage
Morgan Grazier
Kiersten Hazelwood
Bianca Hernandez
Tori Holley
Adrien Hunt
Reagan Kruse
Rachel Lantrip
Daisy Lara
Emily LeGrande
Samantha Marasco
Cecilia Martinez
Erin Mason
Aurora Ortiz
Ashley Paredes
Taylor Patton
Emily Pinkert
Ashley Ramirez
Romi Sanchez
Katie Sessums
Dorienne Scott
Cristina Villa
Megan Whitten
Hayley Wynn
Anita Egas
alumna initiate Melissa Adams Williams
Gifts to the chapter sponsored byDallas Alumnae Chapter
Greater Kansas City, MO,
Alumnae Chapter
Epsilon Epsilon
Collegiate Chapter
Zeta Zeta Collegiate Chapter
Cindy Kelley, bP
Melissa Koch Merriam, EELori White Scott, EEHeather Riley, FF
Theta Rho Chapter members at their installation banquet. From left: Kiersten Hazelwood, Cristina Villa, Emily Pinkert, Adrien Hunt, Reagan Kruse, Tori Holley and Hayley Wynn.
8 phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Spring 2012
The SCSU Colony women worked hard
between September and november of
2011 to recruit members and complete
their FoCUS plan. After their hard
work was completed, the colony women
were joined by their advisory board
and area alumnae to celebrate their
accomplishments during installation
weekend. The installation team included
national President Cindy Kelley, bP;
Membership Growth Coordinator
Katie Matis, dh; Colony Development
Coordinator Jennifer Schimmel Stanley,
Zd, Leadership Consultant Caitlin
Barkdoll, ZΨ, and District 2 Facilitator
Marcia Pucci Jacquette, dN-A.
on nov. 18, the chapter began installation
weekend with the We Are Owls reception in
the Adanti Student Center. The women
were joined by representatives from
campus organizations and the student
life administration, who assisted the
SCSU Colony throughout their journey
to become a chapter. The We Are Ladybugs
reception was then held for sisters of Alpha
Sigma Alpha. The installation team and
volunteers joined the women for games
and refreshments.
new haven, CT, the home of the first
American submarine, steam boat, lollipop,
hamburger and eli Whitney’s cotton gin,
is now also home to Alpha Sigma Alpha’s
first collegiate chapter in Connecticut.
The founding members of Kappa Delta
xi local sorority at Southern Connecticut
State University (SCSU) started their
local sorority with the dream of affiliating
with a national organization. The local
sorority worked almost 10 years to realize
this dream. on nov. 19, 2011, the former
Kappa Delta xi local sorority was installed
as the Theta Sigma Chapter of Alpha
Sigma Alpha.
THETA SigMA SiSTErS
Theta Sigma Chapter installed on Nov. 19, 2011
BY CaiTLiN BarKdOLL, ZΨ | lEaDERSHIP COnSulTanT
Members of the Theta Sigma Chapter and their installation team.
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 9
SCSU, served as the keynote speaker. Sal
shared his experience with this group of
women, his hope for their future and
his appreciation for Alpha Sigma Alpha’s
national organization. “Aspire, Seek, Attain”
toasts were given by Kelly o’Rourke, dE,
Marcia Pucci Jacquette dN-A, and Cindy
Kelley, bP. The circle of friendship was
led by Caitlin and Cindy, as they presented
the Theta Sigma Chapter with their charter.
The night ended with the same words
spoken at the very first colony meeting,
an excerpt from a book by Dr. Seuss,
“oh, the Places You’ll Go.”
Saturday, nov.19, 2011, the women became
fully initiated members of Alpha Sigma
Alpha during the Sanctuary Degree Service.
The SCSU Colony became the Theta Sigma
Chapter during the Service for installation
of a new Chapter, and the morning
ended with the Service for installation for
Collegiate Chapter officers.
A white luncheon was held at the conclusion
of the ritual services. Jennifer Schimmel
Stanley, Zd, served as the toastmistress
for the luncheon. The chapter president,
Tara Monroe, and installation chairman,
Melinda Bolduc, read cards and helped
Cindy Kelley, bP, present the chapter
with gifts from the national organization
and collegiate and alumnae chapters. The
chapter then presented gifts of appreciation
to the installation team, including a house-
shaped Pandora bracelet charm for their
leadership consultant, Caitlin Barkdoll, ZΨ,
symbolizing that the Theta Sigma Chapter
will always be her home away from home.
events concluded Saturday night with a
formal banquet. The Theta Sigma Chapter
celebrated their accomplishments with
friends and family. Caitlin served as the
toastmistress for the evening. Sal Rizza,
associate director of student life for
New initiates Tara Monroe
Ashleigh Adams
Samantha Angotto
Alyssa Battipaglia
Melinda Bolduc
Kristina Brower
Tali Brownstein
MaryJeanne Buonocore
Olivia Curtis
Kacey Damiano
Angelica Davis
Jaime Davis
Karissa DiMartino
Christina Gentile
Jeanette Glazier
Miranda Jones
Huda Khalid
Jessica Luczkow
Meaghan Lynam
Heather Masoud
Kaitlyn McCormack
Lindsay Meyer
Kristen Pesavento
Melissa Peterson
Christie Philippe
Jessica Pittman
Amanda Seagrave
Ashley Steigler
Carol Tunney
Amanda Vitale
New Members Courtney McEwen
Erica Minnicucci
Jennifer Pietruska
Verkisha Richardson
alumna initiate Brianna Weller
Jacquelyn Rose
Holly Bower
Gifts to the chapter sponsored byCincinnati Alumnae Chapter
Greater Kansas City, MO,
Alumnae Chapter
Greater Valley Forge, PA,
Alumnae Chapter
Epsilon Epsilon
Collegiate Chapter
Zeta Zeta Collegiate Chapter
Sarah Bernier Brenneman, ΓΞCindy Kelley, bPSusan Zarnowski, ΘS
Theta Sigma Chapter members are, from left: Tali Brownstein, Brianna Weller, Jessica Luczkow, Samantha Angotto and Jessica Pittman.
10 phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Spring 2012
nOMinATing COMMiTTEE
nominating committee announces national council slate for 2012-14BY aNGELa daNTzLEr BaULdrEE, bZ | nOmInaTIng COmmITTEE CHaIRman
it is an exciting time for Alpha Sigma Alpha. Many new collegiate chapters have been installed this
biennium, and there are more colonizations on the horizon. We also have a new brand that has established
a cohesive visual message about Alpha Sigma Alpha and increased our brand awareness. Our tagline,
“Developing Women of Poise and Purpose,” perfectly captures the type of outstanding women who are
members of our organization.
When working through the nominations process, the nominating committee was looking to slate the
very best of the best for national council for 2012-14. The committee looked for women who expressed
vision to take the sorority to the next level in specific areas, including membership growth, panhellenic
relationships and campus leadership. The strategic plan for 2009-12 was reviewed and referenced to
when looking for the kind of leaders needed to ensure the plan was accomplished. The committee also
looked for nominees with proven administrative and financial skills, the ability to represent the sorority
well to its members and others and those who had a broad perspective of the sorority.
During the nominations process, the committee used information gleaned from candidate resumes
and cover letters, interviews with the candidates and feedback from members who have served in
leadership roles for Alpha Sigma Alpha in their evaluation criteria. in particular, interviews with
candidates were instrumental in allowing the committee to get a feel for the team they felt could
lead Alpha Sigma Alpha for the next biennium.
Members of the nominating committee included Christine Churgai Bry, EK; Judy Deig, bU; Sarah
Zimmerschied, FF; Amy Hughes, bN, and Chairman Angela Dantzler Bauldree, bZ. The committee
is pleased to announce that the following members have been placed on the slate of national council
candidates to be presented to the convention body in July.
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 11
in District 7 from 2002-03 and then
District 7 facilitator from 2003-04.
She volunteered as finance coaching
team leader in District 3 from 2004-06.
Kim was a convention delegate from 1996
to 2010 and a presenter at several District
Day events and emma Coleman Frost
Leadership Development institutes.
At the 2006 national convention, Kim
was elected vice president of membership.
Kim currently serves as vice president
of finance, a position she has held since
May 2007.
Professionally, Kim started working for
UPS in 1988 in the Long island/new York
City area. She also resided in the Dallas
and Pittsburgh areas. Kim relocated to
Jacksonville, FL, in May of 2010 ,where
she currently works as a plant engineering
manager for UPS.
Vice President of Finance – Kelly McGinnis Morello, EK Kelly McGinnis Morello served her
collegiate chapter at Millersville University,
PA, as song/sunshine chairman, treasurer,
10-year anniversary chairman and
standards chairman.
National President – Nora M. Ten Broeck, bK nora M. Ten Broeck is a graduate of Western
illinois University. nora earned a bachelor’s
degree in mass communications as well as a
master’s degree in college student personnel
from WiU and a master’s degree in business
administration from Aurora University, iL.
nora served her collegiate chapter as
fundraising co-chairman, house manager
and president and was involved in campus
activities such as university union board,
campus Panhellenic council and several
honorary societies. As an alumna, she
is a member of the Windy City Alumnae
Chapter and Chicago Alumnae
Panhellenic Association.
nora has volunteered for the sorority
in a variety of roles, serving as a chapter
advisor, housing corporation board
member, emma Coleman Frost Leadership
Development institute facilitator, Phoenix
magazine contributor, national chairman
and a member of the national council since
2002. She authored “The Tie That Binds:
A Celebration of Alpha Sigma Alpha” and
served as assistant editor for “The Years
Behind Us: A history of Alpha Sigma
Alpha.” nora also served as a leadership
consultant for the sorority.
Professionally, nora serves as manager for
a privately held technology firm focused
upon transformative initiatives
for business. She lives in Chicago.
Vice President of Operations – Kim Benson, dN-b Kim Benson is a 1991 graduate of GMi
engineering & Management institute,
Mi (now Kettering University), holding a
bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering.
She served her collegiate chapter as
membership director, chapter treasurer,
Greek assembly/Panhellenic representative
and house steward. As an alumna, she was
a member of the new York Metro, Greater
Dallas and Laurel highlands, PA, Alumnae
Chapters and is currently a member of
the Greater Jacksonville, FL, Alumnae
Chapter. She held various positions in
these chapters, including charter member,
chapter president, treasurer, secretary,
editor, philanthropic chairman and
convention delegate.
A national volunteer since 1994, Kim
was a province director from 1994-2000.
She was finance coaching team leader
12 phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Spring 2012
Vice President of Communications – Marcia Pucci Jacquette, dN-AMarcia Pucci Jacquette joined the Delta
nu-A Chapter at Kettering University, Mi,
and served her chapter as music chairman
and assistant steward. She graduated in
1991 with a bachelor’s degree in electrical
engineering and received a certificate in
marketing excellence from St. Joseph’s
University, PA, in 2011. She was one of the
recipients of the 2010 Alpha Sigma Alpha
Agape Award.
Marcia has been a part of the District
2 leadership since 2005, when she
redesigned and re-launched the district
website as the district webmaster. For her
work with district communications, she
was recognized as the 2006 District 2
extreme volunteer and as a 2007 district
guiding star. She has served as District 2
facilitator since 2007 and presented at
numerous District Day events on topics
ranging from chapter leadership to
representing yourself online.
Marcia is a founding member of the
Greater Valley Forge, PA, Alumnae
Chapter, formed in 2001, and served
as editor/historian, secretary, webmaster
and (currently) vice president.
Professionally, Marcia is the vice president
of marketing and communications for
Jacquette Consulting, inc. in her spare
time, she volunteers as a Girl Scout Daisy
troop leader, shaping future women of
poise and purpose.
on campus, she served as vice president
of order of omega and corresponding
secretary of the student senate. She
graduated in 1998 with a bachelor’s
degree in business administration with
a concentration in accounting. Upon
graduation, she traveled as a leadership
consultant for the sorority.
Kelly graduated magna cum laude
from Villanova University, PA, in
2005 with a master’s degree in human
resource development and has earned
her senior professional in human
resources certification. She is also a
certified professional behavior analyst
and certified professional values analyst.
As a founding member of the Greater Valley
Forge, PA, Alumnae Chapter, Kelly served
as president, ritual chairman, Panhellenic
delegate and currently serves as treasurer.
A national volunteer since 1999, she was
epsilon Kappa membership advisor in
1999, epsilon Kappa chapter advisor 1999-
2004, province director 2000-02, District
2 Advantage coaching team leader 2002-04,
District 2 district facilitator 2004-07,
volunteer recruitment and placement team
leader 2007-08 and as vice president of
membership since 2008. She participated
in extension presentations, served as a
delegate at four national conventions,
facilitated several emma Coleman Frost
Leadership Development institutes and
presented at numerous District Day events.
Kelly was honored with the Agape Award
at the 2006 national convention.
Kelly works in human resources in the
greater Philadelphia area and lives in
Romansville, PA, with her husband,
Ken, and their son.
Vice President of Membership – Julie Wiley Levine, AJulie Wiley Levine joined the Alpha
Chapter at Longwood University, VA,
in 1990. She graduated from Longwood
with a bachelor’s degree in elementary
education, specializing in mathematics
and young adult literature. She received
a master’s of education in school
administration, higher education, from
old Dominion University, VA, and an
educational specialist degree in educational
leadership and administration from
George Washington University, VA, in
2006. Currently, Julie has completed
the coursework towards a doctorate in
educational administration and policy
studies at George Washington University.
Julie served Alpha Chapter as president
and treasurer. She was the recipient of
Longwood’s 1993 Greek woman of the year
award and the most outstanding student
leader for the senior class of 1993.
Julie served the national organization as
convention delegate 1992-2010, leadership
consultant 1993-94, epsilon eta Chapter
advisor 1994-07, formal rush coaching
team leader 2002-06, District 4 facilitator
2006-10 and vice president of membership
since 2010. She served as a facilitator for
numerous emma Coleman Frost Leadership
Development institutes, presented
workshops at national convention and
District Day events, participated in extension
presentations and served on three installation
nOMinATing COMMiTTEE
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 13
campus organizations, including order
of omega, GAMMA (Greeks Advocating
Mature Management of Alcohol) and
Rho Lambda.
She served the Greater Kansas City, Mo,
Alumnae Chapter as president, Panhellenic
delegate and webmaster. As Panhellenic
delegate, she served as grants and loans
chairman and program chairman. She also
was a founder and first president of the
Fountain City, KS, Alumnae Chapter.
Melissa served the national organization
as a leadership consultant 2000-01, Zeta
Mu, Missouri Western State University,
membership advisor 2001-03, District
9 recruitment coaching team leader
2002-03, District 9 facilitator 2003-05,
volunteer recruitment and placement
team leader 2005-07, vice president
of membership 2007-10 and vice
president of operations 2010-12. She
served as a facilitator at several emma
Coleman Frost Leadership Development
institutes, presented workshops at national
conventions and District Day events,
participated in extension presentations and
served on eight installation teams. Melissa
was awarded with the Agape Award at the
2006 national convention.
Professionally, Melissa works as a
development coordinator for Sudden
infant Death Syndrome Resources, inc.
She lives in overland Park, KS, with her
husband, Andy, and her two sons.
Vice President of Membership – Heather Riley, FFheather Riley is a member of the Phi
Phi Chapter at northwest Missouri
State University. She served her chapter
teams. Julie was awarded with the Agape
Award at the 2008 national convention.
She is a member of the Tidewater / Virginia
Beach, VA, Alumnae Chapter.
in 2010 and 2011, Julie served as a small
group facilitator at the Undergraduate
interfraternity institute (UiFi) created by
the national interfraternity Conference.
She originally attended UiFi as a collegian
in 1992 and then worked as a UiFi intern
at a session in 1996.
Professionally, Julie works at Cape henry
Collegiate School in Virginia Beach,
VA, where she teaches middle school
mathematics and coaches cheerleading. Julie
lives in Virginia Beach with her husband,
Marc, daughter, Madison, and son, Wiley.
Vice President of Membership – Melissa Koch Merriam, EEMelissa Koch Merriam is a graduate of
emporia State University, KS, holding a
bachelor’s degree in business management.
She served her chapter as a standards board
member, risk management chairman,
vice president of programming & ritual
and president. She was honored by her
collegiate chapter as Alpha woman,
outstanding senior, the Frost Fidelity
Award nominee, Panhellenic outstanding
new member and Panhellenic community
service award. She was involved in many
as membership director and standards
committee member. She was invited to join
the order of omega and also participated
in several other campus organizations.
Following her graduation with summa
cum laude honors with a bachelor’s degree
in chemistry and mathematics minor,
heather attended iowa State University.
At iSU, she earned her master’s degree in
inorganic chemistry.
As an alumna member of Alpha Sigma
Alpha, heather has served in numerous
roles. She is currently president of the
Greater Kansas City, Mo, Alumnae
Chapter, and also served as secretary,
treasurer and convention delegate for the
alumnae chapter. She served as a District
9 education coaching team member
2006-08, District 9 district meeting
coordinator 2009-12, convention project
team member 2009-12, and an emma
Coleman Frost Leadership Development
institute facilitator. She also participated
in extension presentations, extension
recruitments and chapter installations.
heather lives in Kansas City, Mo, with her
husband and four cats. She is passionate
about animal welfare and is a long-time
volunteer at the humane Society of Greater
Kansas City. She loves the Kansas City
Royals and attends almost every home
game. Professionally, heather is the
director of the illig Family Foundation.
14 phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Spring 2012
vOLUnTEER THaNK YOU
Alpha Sigma Alpha honors and recognizes all sorority volunteers and advisors during National Volunteer Appreciation Week April 15-21, 2012. Thank you to all our past and present volunteers. Here are some fun facts about Alpha Sigma Alpha volunteers and advisors.
20% of advisors attended advisor certification at District Day 2011-12.
30% of volunteers and advisors are also members of an alumnae chapter.
3 states, Michigan, new York and illinois, each have 56 volunteers or advisors residing within their borders.
1943 is the year our most senior volunteers were born.
35 is the average age of an Alpha Sigma Alpha volunteer.
$1.22+ million, is the total lifetime giving to the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation by sorority volunteers (living and deceased).
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 15
education is the most common career choice of an Alpha Sigma Alpha volunteer, with 47% of all volunteers reporting themselves working as students, teachers, professors, higher-education staff or in professional child care
4% of advisory boards for collegiate chapters are male.
15% of advisory boards for collegiate chapters are non-members.
550 is the total number of advisors.
651 is the number of sorority volunteers (living and deceased) who have ever given to the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation.
47% education & child care13% financial services, insurance & real estate11% business, management, sales & private consulting7% medical professional & health care5% communications & journalism5% public sector, government & non-profit4% counseling services & social work3% engineering & aerospace3% fine arts & entertainment2% computer science, information systems & technology
STRATEgiC PLaN
16 phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Spring 2012
Who are we? What do we stand for? Where are we going? Our strategic vision
is set by the elected leaders of our sorority,
the national council, and takes root in our
purpose, our mission, our core values and
our vision statement.
poised and
Purposeful
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 17
AlphA SigmA AlphA’S Future | 2012-15 Strategic plaN
BY CiNdY KELLEY, bP | naTIOnal PRESIDEnT
18 phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Spring 2012
STRATEgiC PLaN
Understanding the strategic planning processThe Alpha Sigma Alpha strategic plan serves as a roadmap and
reinforces the purpose of our organization. Strategic planning is
the process national council uses to determine the direction of the
sorority. A strategic plan is critical to the success of our organization
because it not only articulates our intentions and vision for the
future, but it also guides our actions and holds accountable the
leaders, staff and volunteers of the organization.
From the strategic plan, staff members develop an annual business
plan that details how the strategies and objectives of the strategic
plan will be accomplished, by whom and in what timeframe. The
annual budget of the sorority, the allocation of resources to projects,
activities and initiatives, is driven by the business plan. All three
components are inter-connected and dependent on one another:
strategic plan, business plan and budget.
Alpha Sigma Alpha’s leadership is dedicated to an ongoing strategic
planning model that is goals based. The national council subscribes
to a three-year strategic planning cycle. Year one is devoted to
research and gathering information, year two is dedicated to
formulating ideas and developing the plan and year three is assigned
to promotion, education and implementation of the plan. At any
given time, we are in one phase for the current plan at the same
time we are in a different phase for the next strategic plan.
Research & gatherinformation
Formulate ideas & develop
strategic plan
Execute strategic plan
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 19
PHase 2 (yeaR 2): Formulate ideas and develop strategic planonce all research and information
gathering has been completed, the national
council convenes for a series of strategic
planning sessions. The purpose of these
meetings is to disseminate, review and
analyze the results of the research and
information gathering. The national
council formulates ideas and develops
the strategic plan for the next three-
year period.
The national council reviews the strategic
plan and mission to determine what
priorities exist for the coming year. A
business plan is developed by the national
headquarters staff on an annual basis.
The business plan is the detailed plan of
work for the upcoming fiscal year. This
plan outlines how the organization will
accomplish the short-term objectives in the
strategic plan and who is responsible for
completing the work. The annual budget
is determined based upon the business
plan. Staff routinely provides national
council with progress reports and status
of the strategic plan.
PHase 1 (yeaR 1): Research and gather informationThe first phase of the three-year planning
cycle is dedicated to researching and
gathering information. Alpha Sigma
Alpha employs a variety of research
methods to gather information for its
strategic plan, including:
• Membership surveys
• Trend analysis (recruitment statistics,
campus trends)
• SWoT analysis (strengths, weaknesses,
opportunities and threats)
• environmental scan (cultural and higher
education trends, issues impacting the
future of women and girls)
• Researching what other nPC groups and
collegiate organizations are doing
• Focus groups with members; workshops
at District Day events
• Appreciative inquiry with various
principal groups (staff members,
Foundation trustees)
The input of our membership is vital to
the development of the strategic plan, and
our members play an important role in
the execution and evaluation of the
plan as well.
PHase 3 (yeaR 3): execute strategic planThe national council is responsible for
informing the membership of the strategic
plan, promoting the strategic goals of the
organization and educating the members
about the strategic direction of the sorority.
effectively communicating the objectives
of the sorority allows for all stakeholders
– collegians, alumnae, volunteers, parents
and administrators to claim ownership and
actively participate in achieving the mission
of Alpha Sigma Alpha. The national council
holds staff, volunteers and itself accountable
for the implementation and completion of
the strategic plan.
Part of the execution also involves
evaluating, celebrating successes and
making adjustments as needed. A
well-constructed strategic plan must be
realistic and measurable. it is important
to feel a sense of accomplishment as goals
are achieved. Seeing strategies and action
plans realized is a motivating and
inspiring experience.
our strategic plan is continually scrutinized
and the business plan is adjusted to reflect
current conditions within our sorority,
the Greek community and in the
larger community.
20 phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Winter 2012
Growth
We will provide more women the
opportunity to experience Alpha Sigma
Alpha through the expansion of our
membership and influence on campuses
and in communities. Therefore we will:
Grow collegiate chapters to 95.
increase alumnae chapters &
associations to 100.
engage in a deliberate and
purposeful expansion.
engage all members in valuing
recruitment and purposefully
growing our sisterhood.
encourage and provide resources
to achieve chapter recruitment
Total, target and Quota.
educate members on the significance
of alumnae initiation.
Advancement We will actively promote and advance a
forward-thinking organization, as follows:
Preserve, protect and promote our
image, identity, values and brand.
Maintain an effective and adaptable
volunteer structure that evolves with
the needs of our membership.
introducing the 2012-15 strategic plannational council is pleased to unveil Alpha
Sigma Alpha’s 2012-15 strategic plan.
The plan is built upon four key themes:
cultivation, growth, advancement and
significance. each key theme includes
strategic goals to challenge and further
Alpha Sigma Alpha.
Cultivation
We will cultivate our greatest assets,
our members, by providing relevant
opportunities for their personal and
professional development, including:
Cultivate an environment that
promotes healthy, secure, safe and
responsible women.
Provide meaningful personal and
professional development programming
and leadership enrichment opportunities
for our members.
enhance chapter and member focus on
ritual and values-based programming in
all areas of chapter operations and facets
of membership.
encourage and support our intellectual
aim through academic development
and achievement.
The purpose of Alpha Sigma Alpha
is to foster close friendships between
members and to develop women of
poise and purpose.
The mission: Alpha Sigma Alpha is a
women’s organization that promotes high
ideals and standards for its members
throughout their lives by emphasizing
balance among our four aims of
intel-lectual, physical, social and
spiritual development. Alpha Sigma
Alpha provides opportunities through:
Sisterhood – forming strong bonds
of unconditional friendship based
on common values and experiences;
Heritage – expressed through creed,
ritual and history; and,
Leadership and service – enhanced
by chapter, campus and community
involvement.
The vision of Alpha Sigma Alpha is to
cultivate values and ideals in women who
are known for their character and concern
for others. Alpha Sigma Alpha inspires
women to lead, to serve, and most of
all, to make a difference.
Our purpose, our mission and our vision
Our purpose, our mission and our vision
STRATEgiC PLaN
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 21
ensure sustainable growth can be
achieved through evaluation of processes
for strategic planning.
expand the development of visionary
leaders through a strategic process for
board and leadership development.
Support membership needs through
innovative, relevant technologies.
Maintain a progressive, efficient and
environmentally conscious business
model that provides ongoing protection
of all sorority assets.
Significance
We will engage in significant partnerships
and foster relationships that influence our
members and the communities in which
we serve. We will:
Foster love, loyalty and life-long giving
to the ASA Foundation.
nurture mutually beneficial relationships
with philanthropic partners to advance
each other’s missions and shared purpose.
encourage a culture of service and
philanthropy among our members.
engage in strategic partnerships that
provide value-added benefits to our
membership and communities.
Contribute to the betterment of
and actively influence action in our
campus, nPC, local, national and
global communities.
Create enthusiasm and stimulate
organizational pride for Alpha Sigma
Alpha throughout a member’s life.
ensure we are delivering on our
brand promise through member
growth assessment.
our strategic visionStrategically, it is critical that our sorority
and Foundation receive support from
each one of our members so that Alpha
Sigma Alpha’s vision may come alive
and our sisterhood will endure for our
daughters, granddaughters and future
Alpha Sigma Alphas.
“the Alpha Sigma Alpha
strategic plan serves as a
roadmap and reinforces the purpose of our
organization.” – Cindy Kelley, bP,
national president
22 phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Spring 2012
ASA fOrMaLS
Getting to and from these dances in
the 1940s was a challenge. “We had no
access to automobiles like now,” Dee Dee
said. “We even took a bus home for the
holidays.” So needless to say, planning
transportation to formals took a lot of
time and attention to detail.
JMU is now a co-ed institution,
and more than just two groups
on campus sponsor dances.
The Beta epsilon Chapter
now hosts three semi-
formal events each year,
Champagne Jam in
november, Relive new
Year’s eve in January
and a Valentine’s Day
dance. All of these
events, according to
Christine Belskey,
the social chairman for the Beta epsilon
Chapter, are “date functions” meaning each
sister can bring one date or guest.
Beta epsilon ChapterFrances Jobson Francis, also known as
Dee Dee, told us about formals when she
was in college in the 1940s. Dee Dee is a
member of the Beta epsilon Chapter at
James Madison University, VA, (JMU) and
the chapter attended two formal dances
each year in the 1940s, one sponsored
by the German Club and the other by
the Cotillion Club. At the time, JMU
was an all-women university. A few men
took classes there, but they could not
live on campus. The women of the Beta
espilon Chapter invited their boyfriends
to the dances or men from Virginia
Military institute, University of Virginia
or Washington and Lee University. each
year Washington and Lee held their own
Fancy Dress Ball, which many of the ASAs
attended as well. These dances usually
featured an orchestra for entertainment.
Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority formals of days past
BY BarB WiLLiaMSON, EE | naTIOnal HISTORIan
Sorority formal brings to mind memories of the excitement of a romantic and fun night with that special person, and of course, your sorority sisters. how does your chapter host the most anticipated social event of the year? Formals, or balls, have changed over the years, from orchestras to DJs, long dresses for formal attire to semi-formal attire with short dresses, but the feeling that formal brings to mind is the same. Ask an alumna about her formal. She will smile and start telling you all about it. We thought it would be fun to look at how formal traditions have changed over the years at a few Alpha Sigma Alpha chapters.
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 23
Since the men in the navy were a part of
the campus community, Betty remembers
attending social events with the navy after
she became a member of Alpha Sigma
Alpha. “We had the navy ball we attended,
said Betty, “with dance programs you filled
out by single dances. You danced with your
date mostly, but sometimes we exchanged
dances with other couples. Those programs
were signed at the dance.”
Dance programs were small booklets of
paper with a list of dances on one side and
numbered blanks on the other. The sorority
women carried these programs with them at
the dance, and the men asked permission to
sign for a particular dance with that lady.
Betty remembers that the navy commander
on campus attended the ball in full dress
uniform, and navy cadets played in the
orchestra. not to be outdone by the navy,
Air Force men from nearby Whiteman
AFB, which was only 15 miles from
campus, also attend the navy ball.
Traditions on the University of Central
Missouri campus have certainly changed.
Zeta Zeta Chapter women now have a
formal event that involves a bus trip to
the Lake of the ozarks. They all ride a
bus together to the resort and arrive on a
Saturday afternoon. The women hang out
together poolside or in the rooms until it’s
time to get ready for their formal dinner.
The women wear cocktail dresses and the
men wear shirts, slacks and ties to the
dinner. After the dinner, the dance
features a DJ for entertainment.
Zeta Zeta ChapterBetty Urban Wallick talked with us about
social events at the Zeta Zeta Chapter at
the University of Central Missouri in
the 1940s. During the 1940s, the Zeta
Zeta Chapter had to adjust their living
arrangements on campus, and this actually
affected the social calendar for the chapter.
A new dorm was built on campus for
women in the 1940s, but the United States
navy used the dorm to house their cadets.
At that time, World War ii was in full swing.
Women who were displaced from that
particular dorm were allowed to live in the
sorority houses on campus, even before
they joined a sorority. Betty, who is a past
national president of Alpha Sigma Alpha,
actually lived in the ASA house before
she became a member, because of the
displacement issues on campus. In the May 1947 issue of the Phoenix, members of the Zeta Zeta Chapter at Central Missouri State College, now University of Central Missouri, wrote they were very excited for their spring formal dance.
Two Beta Sigma Chapter members dressed up for a formal dance in 1959. From left:
Marilyn Ramsey Garbee and Janice Swisher Vallely.
Betty Urban Wallick, ZZ, pictured in the May 1946 issue of the Phoenix, as a convention delegate for the Estes Park, CO, convention in August of 1946.
24 phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Spring 2012
ASA fOrMaLS
Today the Beta Sigma Chapter hosts two
formals, one in December and the second
in May. December’s event is the Crimson
Ball held at Millie’s Cafe or a downtown
hotel in Springfield. The chapter women
do not crown any dance royalty like they
did in the 1950s, but they still enjoy
dancing to the music of a DJ and wear
semi-formal attire, mostly short dresses.
Beta Gamma ChapterPast national president Rhetta nesbitt
Robinson, of the Beta Gamma Chapter
at northeastern State University, oK,
remembers that her chapter formals
were required to be held on campus in
the 1950s. Their dresses were long or
short, depending on the theme of the
dance. For dance music, the chapter
either used a DJ or hired a band, she said,
“depending on how much money we had.”
The college administrators attended the
dances, and the Beta Gamma Chapter
crowned a queen who was voted on by the
sorority and fraternity brothers from Phi
Lambda Chi.
Today the Beta Gamma Chapter members
hold a spring formal in May, sometimes
the weekend after finals are complete.
Sometimes they rent a room at a Tahlequah
hotel or take a road trip to another
destination like Dallas or Kansas City
and make a weekend of it, shopping and
sightseeing with their dates. The chapter
women no longer follow the traditions of
dance royalty, but they do give out awards
at formal that are both serious and goofy.
Celebrating sisterhoodSocial events and chapter formals are
always fun memories for chapter members.
Whether a formal is held on campus or
another location, it’s always a great time for
socializing with sisters and getting dressed
up for the evening. Ask an alumna of your
chapter about her memories of chapter
social events; she will probably have lots
of fun memories to share.
Chapters are reminded, though, that
certain guidelines need to be followed
when hosting social events. one of
Alpha Sigma Alpha’s four aims is social
development, but our members need to
have fun in a safe and responsible manner.
Before hosting any chapter social events,
please refer to the Alpha Sigma Alpha
national Policies and Procedures regarding
social functions. if you have any questions,
please ask your chapter advisors or your
district facilitator.
Beta Sigma ChapterRosie Fellin of the Beta Sigma Chapter
at Missouri State University shared with
us how her chapter held social events in
the 1950s. During that time, the chapter
held an annual sweetheart dinner dance at
Riverside inn in ozarka, Mo, with a live
band. The chapter women crowned
a sweetheart during intermission of the
dance. “All the women dressed in formal
attire. Special guests were the college
president and the deans and their wives,
advisors and the housemother. There
was no drinking allowed,” said Rosie.
Marilyn Ramsey Garbee, from the Beta
Sigma Chapter shared with us that the
chapter women often were invited to
fraternity social events during the late
1950s. “The fraternity dinner dances
were always formal date events, usually
held in the spring at Riverside inn,” said
Marilyn. “A live orchestra played music
for dancing and a queen was crowned.”
From the March 1948 issue of the Phoenix. The Beta Sigma Chapter pictured at Southwest Missouri State College, now Missouri State University. Rosie Fellin is in the first row, far right.
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 25
Start your journey
ASA 47th Biennial national Convention & Leadership Conference highlights
COnvEnTiOn 2012
26 phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Spring 2012
COnvEnTiOn 2012
Garden tea party networking receptionJoin us for the garden tea party networking reception on Wednesday,
July 11, at 7:30 p.m. Wear your best tea party hat and outfit and
catch up with sisters at the kick-off of the national convention &
leadership conference. ASA tours and sightseeinghoping to take a trip to the beach during your visit to Virginia? Make
sure to register for the ASA beach invasion on Thursday, July 12.
During the beach invasion tour option, you will spend your evening on
the oceanfront of Virginia Beach. A second tour option for Thursday is
a dinner cruise on the Spirit of norfolk. Both tours are happening at the
same time, so please choose only one; transportation will be provided.
Start making your plans now by checking out www.visitvirginiabeach.com.shop ASAPlan to shop for officially licensed Alpha Sigma Alpha gear, as well
as local Virginia Beach merchandise, at Shop ASA on Friday, July 13.
Don’t worry about space in your suitcase; on-site shipping will
be available.
The ultimate sisterhood journeyMembers will make many great memories during the national
convention & leadership conference. You can look forward to fun and
entertaining social events, see the accomplishments of ASA during
the past biennium at business meetings, reflect on your journey as
a member of ASA during ritual ceremonies and explore the city of
Virginia Beach with your sisters.educational opportunitiesDuring the national convention & leadership conference, you will have
the opportunity to attend educational programming that will guide you
through all areas of life including:
Leadership development
Personal finance
Career enhancement
“Do it yourself” trends
Women’s health and nutrition
The social media and technology movement
July 11-15, 2012Founders inn and Spa
Virginia Beach, Va
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 27
FOUnDATiOn NEWS
People volunteer for a wide variety of reasons, especially wanting to help
others. But it’s also oK to want some benefits for you from volunteering.
The best volunteering does involve the desire to serve others, but this does
not exclude other motivations.
The Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation is looking for collegiate and alumnae
members who want to volunteer. What does it mean to volunteer for the
Foundation? Foundation ambassadors work directly with the board of
trustees and Foundation staff. our ambassadors talk with a variety of
donors for a variety of reasons, the biggest is to say thank you.
The Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation exists to support the educational,
leadership and philanthropic purposes of Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority
through charitable giving. We are looking for women who want to educate
our members about the Foundation, why we give and the future of Alpha
Sigma Alpha. Contact Shannon Priddy at [email protected] if
you are interested in being a Foundation ambassador.
Recognition in the 1901 Society requires an undergraduate
contribution of $19.01. each member will receive a 190 i dangle/
charm. We encourage each member to give $19.01 annually
throughout her college career.
HOW a NiCKeL a day MaKes THe diFFeReNCeF in 20i0-11, the number of undergraduate sisters totaled more than
4,200 members.
F if all undergraduate members joined the 1901 Society, it could raise
$80,000 for the Foundation.
F if undergraduate members continued to give $19.01 for all four years,
the amount would be $320,000. This total is enough to completely
fund District Day for all eight districts for three years.
F This can be accomplished for just $19.01 a year—just a nickel a day.
F individually $19.01 may not seem like a lot, but combined with
fellow sisters, you have the power to make a DYnAMiC impact!
Why volunteer for the Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation? What is the Wilma Wilson Sharp
Society? Members of the Wilma
Wilson Sharp Society are the
visionaries of the Alpha Sigma
Alpha Foundation. They are
the donors that provide for
the future of Alpha Sigma Alpha
by including the Foundation
as a beneficiary of their wills,
life insurance policies,retirement
plans or testamentary trust and annuities. The society provides
an avenue to honor these donors. Visit our website,
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org/foundation, to learn more or contact
Shannon Priddy at (317) 713-1924.
Wilma Wilson Sharp Society
1901 Society
28 phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Spring 2012
2. on nov. 15, 2011, the Buffalo, nY,
Alumnae Chapter had a Founders’ Day
Luncheon at the Thirty one Club in
Buffalo. Collegians from the Zeta Chi
Chapter, niagara University, nY, were
also in attendance. From left: Stephanie
Grierson, ZΧ, Jackie Vito LoRusso, PP,
Marcia Kinbar Goldstein, dT, and Karen
Lesinski, PP.
3. The Charlotte, nC, Alumnae
Chapter enjoyed a Saturday brunch
on Dec. 3, 2011, at the Terrace Café
in the South Park area of Charlotte.
4. Members of the Delta Sigma Chapter at
Saginaw Valley State University, Mi, pose
with their mascot, Coop the Cardinal,
during the 2011 homecoming parade.
From left: Rachel eurich, Gwen Scruggs,
Stephanie Shaffer, haleigh ensman,
Mariah Robinson, Kristina Tschirhart,
Julia Snyder and Kelsey Prohaska.
1. Members of the Beta Gamma Chapter at
northeastern State University, oK, gather
for a snapshot during their holiday social
on Dec. 9, 2011. Front row from left:
hannah Fleming, Preslee Perez and Maci
Radebaugh. Middle row from left: Tara
Piguet, Rachael Manning, Rian Cragar,
Kaleigh Brewer, Stephanie Dorsch,
Madison Stephens, Braidee hamm,
Lauren Rosson and Brooke Allison. Top
row from left: Jayne Sarnoskie, Anali
Carrillo, Sydney Martindale, Brandi Ross
and Dakota Dear.
1
3 4
DiSTRiCT NEWS
2
www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 29
6. The Tulsa, oK, Alumnae Chapter and
the Theta eta Chapter at Rogers State
University, oK, celebrated Founders’
Day together in fall 2011.
7. The Zeta Kappa Chapter at Minnesota
State University, Mankato, and the Sigma
nu Fraternity, pictured after a lip sync
contest during homecoming week,
which they won during fall 2011.
The chapters were also the overall
homecoming winners.
8. Group photo of the epsilon epsilon
Chapter at emporia State University,
KS, taken on nov. 8, 2011.
5. Alumnae members of the Delta Zeta
Chapter at the University of Wisconsin-
Whitewater met for a reunion during
homecoming weekend in fall 2011 to
celebrate the 40th anniversary of the
chapter’s founding. Front row: Cherie
Fink Shallock. Back row from left:
Bonnie Steinhoff Schaefer, Patricia
Blunt Vollbrecht, Mary Bedessem
Mamath and Carol Whiting Becraft.
5 6
7 8
nEWS AnD EvENTS
Hermes SocietyCongratulations to the following members who have been accepted into
the hermes Society, Alpha Sigma Alpha’s academic honor society, during
the spring 2011 and fall 2012 semesters. Applications for the hermes
Society are due Dec. 1, and June 1, annually. For an application and more
information please visit www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org.
Spring 2011
Megan Boege, bΡ, northern illinois University
Candace Coleman, bS, Missouri State University
Stephanie Lashway, ΘN, Knox College, iL
Mariam Said, dN-A, Kettering University, Mi
Catherine Straube, Θb, Roanoke College, VA
Sarah Yates, Zh, Rockhurst University, Mo
Gretta haag Young, EK, Millersville University, PA
Fall 2012
DeeAnn Amlin, bΓ, northeastern State University, oK
Allison Body, Zh, Rockhurst University, Mo
helen Burkett, ΘΜ, Valdosta State University, GA
Laura Carbonneau, ΓΙ, Rochester institute of Technology, nY
Sydney hague, hh, Pittsburg State University, KS
Carol Mak, ZF, illinois institute of Technology
Kayla McCollum, ZA, Missouri Southern State University
Katherine Schwartz, ZΜ, Missouri Western State University
Mary Staples, Zh, Rockhurst University, Mo
Desiree Stuart, ZA, Missouri Southern State University
Laura Weiss, EΓ, Virginia Commonwealth University
Megan Wittusen, ΘΓ, Christopher newport University, VA
Colony & extension updateAlpha Sigma Alpha is colonizing at indiana University and Boise
State University, iD, in fall 2012. if you are interested in getting
involved or learning more about the colonies, email us at
Do you know a woman attending either
institution and want to refer them for
membership? Fill out a recruitment referral
form on the Alpha Sigma Alpha website.
30 phoenix of Alpha Sigma Alpha | Spring 2012
www.alphasigmaalpha.org 33www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org 31
Gamma omega Chapter members show their dressy side during formal rush at eastern illinois University in 1983.
from the archives
i contribute to the Arista Alumnae Association because i believe in the power of membership in Alpha Sigma Alpha. i believe Alpha Sigma Alpha membership is life changing. i cannot imagine my life without our beloved sorority. i am thankful for the leadership and growth opportunities, lifelong friendships and the continued opportunity to give to others when i always get more in return. i believe in women of poise and purpose.
Melissa Koch Merriam, EEVice president of operations Greater Kansas City, Mo, Alumnae Chapter
To learn more about the Arista Alumnae Association or to register for membership, visit www.AlphaSigmaAlpha.org or call (317) 871-2920.
9002 Vincennes Circle | Indianapolis, IN 46268-3018