Sexy, Sweaty Service!
Transcription
Sexy, Sweaty Service!
hevron C OMEGA PHI ALPHA NATIONAL SERVICE SORORITY • WWW.OMEGAPHIALPHA.ORG vol. 44 Photo: Olivia Snellgrove 01 OPA ladies gather for a group picture during the Convention 2011 Service Project. Sexy, Sweaty Service! by Trista Guzman (Phi), VP of Leadership Development A t Convention 2011, we flocked to the buses in our fancy new Convention T-shirts on Saturday morning to “Give Service the Royal Treatment in the Queen City.” What could be better than a Saturday spent doing community service? Having nature’s spa treatment by getting down and extra dirty in the humidity! On the way to the park, sisters sat patiently on the bus jamming and singing to the radio. One particularly memorable moment came when the driver of Bus 2 flickered the lights to give the bus a more “club-life” atmosphere, creating an overall chance for additional laughter. It wasn’t until we arrived at the park and saw the massive mounds of mulch that the fun really kicked into high gear. Armed with shovels, pitchforks and wheelbarrows, we took to the bushes and trees, adding and spreading mulch to ensure that the plants would continue to be healthy. There were so many sisters there to help that we were split into teams to complete the beautification and revitalization of the park and rec center plant life. While Team 1 was out working on the park, Team 2 spent more Fall 2011 2 FROM THE PRESIDENT President’s Chevron CORNER by Andie Bowman (Epsilon), National President The Chevron is a quarterly newsletter produced for Omega Phi Alpha, National Service Sorority alumnae and active sisters. National Executive Board Members President Andie Bowman VP Business Operations Stephanie Hallman VP Programs Kasey Stevens VP Administration Nichole Barton VP Communications Lynn M.-H Andrews VP Alumnae Relations Ginger McGarity VP Leadership Development Trista N. Guzman VP Expansions Heather Pritchard VP Advancement Pamela McEwen VP Membership Mandi Humphrey VP Finance Leann Williams Past President Pamela McEwen Chevron Editors Chevron Editor Mary Harrison Copy Editor Ann DeMatteo Layout Editor Shelley Lai Distribution The Chevron is mailed out four times a year to all alumnae and active OPA chapters. Distribution dates are as follows: October 1, January 1, April 1, and July 1. I hope this Chevron finds all of you doing well. Fall is off to a frenzy of OPA activity and I am very excited about the projects the NEB is working on this year. We accomplished a lot at convention and really enjoyed being Queens of Service in Charlotte. Thank you again to all who attended, especially those that wore their queen accessories. ACTIVE SISTERS Best of luck this semester. I encourage you to do the following: 1. Get to know a sister you don’t know very well. 2. Be sure you get to know the pledges and work hard to include them when they become new actives. 3. Remember the importance of service. Try new projects you have never done and make sure to get your hands dirty during a few of them. 4. Get involved with the President’s Project -- “Archiving OPA.” 5. Don’t sweat the small stuff. You will laugh at yourself in a few years at the things you thought were going to be the end of your OPA world in college. Focus on making lasting friendships, touching the lives of others through the gift of service and preparing yourself for the professional world by gaining all the leadership experience you can. Submissions Articles for the Chevron are written by active sisters and alumnae. If you would like to submit a feature story about an alumnae or a special project happening at your chapter, please email it to: [email protected] Pictures may also be submitted in jpg format. National Office Mailing Address Omega Phi Alpha National Office PO Box 955 East Lyme, CT 06333 Official National Website www.omegaphialpha.org ALUMNAE Please use fall as the perfect opportunity to come back to OPA if you have the time. If you don’t have much, that is OK. You can do wonders just by updating your info with OPA through our website and encouraging your fellow sisters you are still in contact with to do the same. I challenge any alum that is financially capable to enter our Alumnae Convention Scholarship Raffle. For every $25 donation you make to the scholarship fund before the raffle deadline, you will be entered for a chance to win convention fee, full transportation and lodging for Convention 2012. Don’t forget to fill out an entry form, though. I bought my first ticket in Charlotte and hope I get lucky this time around. To all sisters, I wish you excellent health and happiness. Don’t forget to friend Ophia Rose on Facebook so you can receive frequent updates on what’s new with OPA and our sisters in between Chevrons. Complete Sorority Contact List To request a complete contact list of all sorority officers, appointments, and chapter addresses, please contact the National VP Administration: Myrinda Sheppard [email protected] Fall 2011 Looking ahead to a FANTASTIC 45th year of O-Phi-A, Your National President, Andie Bowman NATIONAL NEWS - CONVENTION 3 Attendees Receive a Royal Welcome to Convention 2011 by Elizabeth Anderson (Mu) C onvention 2011 began with a shimmering night of glitz and glamour on the rooftop of the Holiday Inn Center City in downtown Charlotte. In keeping with the “Queens of Service” theme, many a tiara was sported at the welcoming. Those who arrived sans-crown were able to make their own with materials provided by the Convention Committee. The festivities got off to a romping start as attendees were treated to a game of “Welcome Reception Bingo.” This game consisted of much scurrying about as the participants eagerly gathered signatures from their fellow convention-goers for categories such as “Is an alumnae delegate,” “Has an Ophia doll with her,” and “Has been to four or more OPA Conventions.” Following the bingo game, announcements were made with an official welcome by National President Andie Bowman and Convention Committee members Emily Britt, Joanne Ofoli and Melissa Gerrior. Attendees were reminded to register with the committee that evening. Andie also introduced the NEB attendees and alumnae delegates while a sweet treat of ice cream was provided by the hotel. In closing, some dipped into the rooftop pool while other delegates were grouped into teams and given instructions for an OPhiA scavenger hunt. The teams—Epsilon & Upsilon, Chi & Omicron, Alpha Delta & Sigma, Alpha Zeta & Alpha Iota, Nu & Gamma, Alpha Alpha & Tau, Alpha Theta & Rho, Alpha Eta & Psi, Alpha & Alpha Lambda, Alpha Epsilon & Delta, Alpha Gamma & Alpha Kappa, Mu & Phi—were charged with having their pictures taken next to certain Charlotte landmarks and with its’ citizens. It was wonderful night under the Charlotte lights to kick-off Convention 2011. ...Sexy, Sweaty Service! end. After some water and affection from our lovely sisterhood, we took Herman to a nice swampy area of the park to set him free. Herman lives to see another day! All in all, the service project in Charlotte was a success! OPA sisters spent three hours beautifying a park while building the strength and bonds of our sisterhood. And we saved a Herman, even though he was not able to repay us by turning into a handsome prince to really solidify our Royal Day of Service. We left the park beautiful, created new bonds and represented OPA in the best way we could: Being royally amazing in service. Photo: Oliva Snellgrove time doing some sisterly bonding. Small groups broke up and spent time chatting about old TV shows we used to watch as kids. (Remember ‘Hey Arnold’ and ‘Boy Meets World.”) Another group partook in a rousing game of “Ride that Pony” lead by Phi Chapter sister Courtney Coker. Meanwhile out in the trenches, National President Andie Bowman took control of the mulch filled wheelbarrow and sisters were shoveling and spreading the mulch around the plants. A few sisters put themselves on water duties to make sure no one ended up dehydrated in the almost 100 degrees humid summer heat. Teams 1 and 2 continuously switched places to give every sister the opportunity to work on beautifying the park and then refresh herself with a water break. Sisterhood and service in one - what OPA is all about! Toward the end of our service project, VP of Business Operations Stephanie Hallman and a few other sisters rescued a frog from the huge pile of mulch. Our new frog friend, Herman, narrowly escaped a painful OPA ladies work together to get the job done. Fall 2011 4 NATIONAL NEWS - CONVENTION WELCOME New National Executive Board Members Photo: Sarah VanDyke by Mary Harrison (Phi), Chevron Editor Photo: Sarah VanDyke 2011-2012 National Executive Board (minus Nichole Barton) LYNN MARTIN-HOBBIE ANDREWS: VICE PRESIDENT OF COMMUNICATIONS A founding member of Omicron Chapter at Auburn University, Lynn has always aspired to further her involvement and assist in not only sustaining the ideals, but broadening Omega Phi Alpha’s reach to the community. Serving as VP of Communications presents the ideal opportunity for her to use her experience within the advertising and marketing industry to achieve the vision set forth for developing new growth, increasing organizational awareness and building a sense of honor and prestige in being a member of OPA. While living in New York City, she worked at FCB, Deustch, and DCA Advertising, part of Dentsu Worldwide, where she handled all aspects of developing and producing campaigns. As a producer/ project manager for numerous clients, she has gained a wide breadth of knowledge to understand where a company needs to position itself to prosper and achieve its endeavors. She hopes to use her professionalism and expertise to build broader community awareness, both locally and nationally, by creating a more comprehensive marketing plan and the required marketing materials to support OPA’s mission. “With a missionary heart, I strive to live my life focusing on those in need and place much effort towards being a humanitarian. It will be an honor and a privilege to serve as I delve back into the organization that was so dear to heart and devote my time to assuring its future success. I would love to be part of the force that led more women to learn, understand and experience the ideals held by the sisters of Omega Phi Alpha.” Fall 2011 Photo: Nichole Barton Photo: Heather Pritchard Photo: Sarah VanDyke Photo: Sarah VanDyke NATIONAL NEWS - CONVENTION 5 KASEY STEVENS: VICE PRESIDENT OF PROGRAMS Kasey was part of the Rho pledge class and became active in Phi Chapter at Arizona State University in Fall 2006. She served Phi as ADO, historian, and Chapter Standards Board chair in 2007-2008 and Chapter President in 2008-09. She became an alumna in Spring 2009. After becoming an alumna, she served as the TLC for District 6 in Fall 2010 and the national service director for 2010-11. Kasey works as an administrative assistant and office manager at Univita Health in Scottsdale, AZ. She just took an interest in running and has hopes of completing the PF Chang’s Half Marathon in Phoenix in January 2012. She stays involved in the community by participating in charity walks, namely the Phoenix Walk to End Alzheimer’s. TRISTA NICOLE GUZMAN: VICE PRESIDENT OF LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT Trista pledged in Fall 2008 and was an active member of Phi Chapter at Arizona State University. As an active, she held positions as rush chair and membership director. She became an alumna in Spring 2010 when she graduated with a bachelor of science in political science. Since becoming alumna, Trista held the position of TLC for District 6 in Spring 2011. Trista lives in Tempe, AZ with her three little bundles of joy, Tuxedo, Cookie and Figaro and works for the Arizona Governor’s Office of Constituent Services. She is thrilled to serve her sisters and the sorority as the vice president of leadership development. HEATHER PRITCHARD: VICE PRESIDENT OF EXPANSIONS Heather Pritchard, an alumna of Nu Chapter at the Georgia Institute of Technology, returns to the National Executive Board as vice president of expansions. She previously served as vice president of leadership development for four years, and has also served as the national publicity director. During her term, Heather hopes to fine-tune the colonization process, both through strategic expansions and through new colonization requirements. Additionally, she plans to work on a colony to chapter transition plan for new chapters. Heather lives in Atlanta, GA and works as a software consultant for Ariba, Inc. Outside of OPA, she plays in a co-ed kickball league, and enjoys going to concerts, college football (go Jackets! THWUGA!) and traveling. NICHOLE BARTON: VICE PRESIDENT OF ADMINISTRATION Nichole Barton graduated from Tennessee Technological University in 2006 with a degree in biology. At Epsilon Chapter, she held the offices of fellowship director, service director and membership director. As a new alumna, she held the national office of vice president of administration. Soon after graduating, she got married and had a daughter, Sophia. She is now a stay-at-home mom to a 2-year-old and is expecting a little boy in the fall. She is excited to be in a position to be able to participate in OPA on the national level again. She looks forward to meeting many new sisters and reconnecting with many of the old. Fall 2011 6 NATIONAL NEWS - CONVENTION Queens OF SERVICE by Lynn Dudash (Nu), National Awards Chair T he areas of service applications were read by three judges who scored the blinded applications. One of our newest chapters won three of the six areas of service awards. Outstanding Service to the Community at Large: Alpha Kappa, University of Kansas Alpha Kappa chapter at University of Kansas won the award for a series of projects serving the Emily Hues Dance Studio, which is attended by at-risk teens. Some of the projects included using their formal to raise money for the studio and hosting a boutique night where the dancers could pick out clothes and accessories for themselves and their families. Service to the University Community: Alpha Kappa, University of Kansas The University of Kansas paired the chapter with the Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children for whom they made birthday cards and a Harry Potter themed dollhouse. Service to the Members of the Sorority: Alpha Kappa, University of Kansas Alpha Kappa also won for Service to the Members of the Sorority for their Teach a Sister Project. Every other week sisters gathered to learn a new skill from one of their fellow sisters. Some of the lessons included belly dancing, needlepoint , and how to do Michael Jackson’s Thriller Dance. Rho chapter was recognized for their Service to the Nations of the World Project, Eat So They Can, which raises money for the Global Volunteer Network Foundation. Throughout the year, they raised over $7,000. Their largest event was a benefit concert by The Band Perry, which sold 2,500 tickets. Permanent Project: Psi, Texas A&M at Corpus Christi Psi chapter’s Love in a Box brings awareness to the mental health of Corpus Christi’s homeless population by spending a night in a cardboard box while raising money for the Good Samaritan Rescue mission shelter. President’s Project Fiscal Responsibility: Phi, Arizona State University The sisters of Phi Chapter not only learned about money management for themselves, but they also taught 175 Phoenix area Girl Scouts through with Badge Day. They taught workshops on a variety of fiscal topics, from ranging from couponing to investing. National Service Award: Alpha Kappa, University of Kansas Alpha Kappa won the National Service Award for the best overall service program. Chapter Development Award Alpha Zeta National Membership Award Upsilon National Website Award Alpha Alpha National Scrapbook Award Omicron National Travel Award Phi Alumnae Travel Award-Individual Ann DeMatteo Alumnae Travel Award-Chapter Phi Chapter Excellence Program Gold-Alpha Zeta, Nu Silver-Alpha Alpha, Alpha Gamma, Alpha Kappa, Delta, Epsilon, Gamma, Phi Bronze- None Top 10 Individual Achievement in Service Award Winners 1. Courtney Coker, Phi-286.5 2. Tiffany Veschio, Phi-248 3. Regina Escalante, Phi-226.5 4. Katelyn LeMay, Phi-210 5. Nadya Farias, Phi-183.5 6. Katie Knudtson, Phi-177 7. Kimberly Bradsher, Phi-173.5 8. Elizabeth Ritter, Phi-171 9. Arti Patel, Chi-169 10. Jaclyn Avallone, Phi-159 A complete list of award winners can be found at www.omegaphialpha.org. Go to the Convention page via the quick links menu and an Awards page link can be found on the left hand side of the page. Fall 2011 NATIONAL NEWS 7 Calling All Gumshoes 2011-12 President’s Project Revealed By Mary Harrison (Phi), Chevron Editor A s soon as the 2011 National Convention ended and the President’s Project for the upcoming year was announced, the Chevron reached out to National President Andie Bowman for background information on the inspiration for the project. She offered suggestions on how chapters could fulfill the requirement. Below is our interview: Chevron: What is the President’s Project for this year? Andie Bowman: “The President’s Project this year is “Archiving OPA.” Basically that means documenting the past and present of our sorority’s history.” Why did you pick this project? AB: “I chose this project because since my term as vice president of membership I was filled with a passion for recovering OPA’s membership records. Working with our membership database on a daily basis made me very aware of the need for a largescale effort in order to fill in the information gaps in our database sooner than later. My inspiration to choose this project was taken to the next level after visiting the national archives last summer. I want to help bring that experience on some level to all of our sisters.” How do you hope it affects the sorority on a chapter level? AB: “On a chapter level, I hope this project sparks a chord in our active sisters to be proud of their chapters and realize the importance of documenting their activities. It is hard at that stage in your OPA life to realize that in just a few short years how hard it will be to remember all the things you did and who your fellow sisters were.” How do you hope it affects the sorority on a national level? AB: “On a national level, I hope we can get the information we need to reach more sisters who have lost touch with OPA so they can return to our sisterhood, re-engage with friends and contribute to OPA’s future.” What do you think will be the biggest challenges for chapters in completing this project, if any? AB: “I think the chapters’ biggest challenge will be understanding the importance of this project and realizing they can make the largest contribution to the project’s success if they will stay motivated and be willing to do some leg work.” What do you expect OPA to gain as a result of this project at both the chapter and national level? AB: “I hope for OPA, one day in the next few years, to have a book documenting our history especially in time for our 50th Anniversary in 2017. I also hope to gain access to a larger base of OPA members to help support our sisterhood.” What project ideas do you have to help get sisters started? AB: “I have lots of project ideas, here are some I thought of recently.” “First and foremost I would like every chapter to submit a local chapter history by National Service Week, which is in early November. I would encourage alums of defunct chapters to do the same and submit by November 6th deadline. The second objective I would like each chapter to accomplish is to locate at least one member of each pledge class who is willing to help find the rest of her pledge class sisters. When sisters are found, submit their current information to our national office to update the database.” Other ways a chapter can fulfill the President’s Project are as follows: • Compile photos, videos that represent the milestones in each chapter’s history (Induction, Activations, Awards, Service Projects, etc) • Compile a complete list of your chapter’s local officers • Compile a complete family tree for each chapter that has families • Compile a complete list of each chapter’s convention delegates • Work to fill in the gaps in the master sister lists on the forum • Send in digital photos of chapter memorabilia (scrapbooks, composites) to the national office • Compile a complete list of Bigs and Littles to send to the national office to help with the “Big/Lil Project” • Write new songs for OPA describing our essential and fundamental elements Suggestions to assist in achieving data collection: • Interview alums to document their favorite chapter memories • Alums or active chapters can adopt a defunct chapter and help collect their history and alums information • Visit your school’s library to find old yearbooks. Take digital photos of any pages that relate to OPA. Send photos to the national office. Make sure to document the names of people photographed and in what year for each photo recorded • Have pledge class reunions to document your pledging and active experiences. Share old photos and memorabilia as well as take new photos to send to the national office • Hold contact info drives. Chapters could have a contest to see which sister can get the most sisters’ current info. Prizes could be a free T-shirt for the next event, free formal tickets, a trophy, etc. These are just a few ideas and suggestions to help chapters get started. I encourage chapters to create their own as well. This will be a very fun and interesting project and one that will bring chapters and alums closer together. I look forward to reviewing the items discovered while “Archiving OPA.” Good luck ladies! Fall 2011 8 NATIONAL NEWS - CONVENTION Fundraising Update Convention 2011 by Pamela McEwen (Epsilon), VP of Advancement Planning At convention in Charlotte, several changes were voted on that will impact fundraising at the local and the national level in the years to come: 1. The adoption of programs that will encourage support of the sorority through contributions and the authorization to create a 501c3 Educational Foundation to work with the sorority. Previously, dues paid by active members primarily funded the national budget. Our goal is to secure diverse funding sources to promote growth and development. 2. The elimination of the “national fundraiser”. OPA’s national fundraiser was never actually able to provide the volume or marketing benefits of a large-scale project that would have made a “national” project worthwhile. It was evident that fundraising locally is more effective when chapters can target their markets and timetables instead of trying to fit into a national model. 3. The re-focusing of the national Fundraising Chair to encourage local activity and provide chapters with information and resources. The FRC will also facilitate the exchange of fund-raising information among chapters, NEB officers and other knowledgeable resources. These changes will allow each chapter to develop fund-raising strategies that are best suited for their campuses and demographics. They will receive support and information from the NEB and from each other in the development of ideas and projects. External revenues will allow the sorority at the chapter and the national levels to expand programming and facilitate growth. BALANCING THE BUDGET Data Provided by Leann Willams (Nu), VP of Finance and Andie Bowman (Epsilon), National President During Convention 2011, discussion was presented of the behind-the-scenes work that not only the National Executive Board provides to OPA actives, but the abundant appointed positions and volunteers as well. Many do not think of OPA as an organization that has a business-like foundation and operating structure. Numerous services are provided that are relatively unknown or go unnoticed by actives and alums. With the 2010-11 President’s Project requesting financial responsibility and a Vision 2015 goal of a balanced budget, it was brought up that national dues had not been increased in 15 years despite the constant rise in inflation. To continue to provide the services and support that maintain the organization’s infrastructure, it was recommended to raise dues to cover the increasing costs of basic business expenses. This much needed increase will allow for OPA to have a balanced budget. Effective Fall 2011, all fees were raised to $50. One-time fees of $50 include pledge dues, activation fees and the colonization fee when applicable. Active dues will be $50 every semester. Below are just a few of the services that are provided or covered by paid fees and dues. Provided to Chapters by National Organization: Insignia at Reduced Bulk Costs, Fundraising Ideas and Coordination, Liability Insurance, Virtual assistant with Database Access and Consistent Mail/Email Fall 2011 Chapter Printing, Chapter Storage, National Database, National Archives, National Awards Communications and Marketing: Publications, Website, Forum, etc. National Newsletter, Chevron: Writing, Editing, Layout, Printing and Distribution Financial: Chapter Assistance Programs, Rush Assistance, Dues Assistance, Scholarship Matching Funds Membership: Pledging Materials, Pledge Pins, Membership Certificates, Alumnae Contact and Correspondence Colonization of New Chapters: Planning, Supplies and Materials, Retreat, Ceremony, Induction with Charter, National Officer and/or TLC Assistance District Rallies: Planning, Supplies and Materials, Travel, and Lodging, National Officer and/or TLC Assistance Annual Convention: Planning, Supplies and Materials, Meeting Rooms, Workshops, Activities, Awards Banquet, Transportation, Portion of Travel and Accommodations, T-shirts NATIONAL NEWS - CONVENTION 9 Sisters pose for a pictures while taking in the fun at Banquet. Looking Back and Looking Within Convention Banquet 2011 by Ann DeMatteo (Beta), Chevron Copy Editor C HARLOTTE -- Dressed in their Sunday best in the Queen City, and some with tiaras on their heads, sisters from across the country celebrated a year of doing good at the 2011 Omega Phi Alpha annual Convention banquet. National President Andie Bowman presided over the affair held at Discovery Place in downtown Charlotte. Prior to sitting down to a buffet of Sherry Poached Chicken, Beef Brisket or Vegetable Lasagna, sisters ambled through the museum, exploring its scientific and animal exhibits, aquariums and simulated rainforest. Some posed for pictures in front of the large model of the Earth and others were daring enough to put their hands in a pool of organisms, including a horseshoe crab. Andie commented her first year as president was “a whirlwind.” Each district had a rally, the Boston University Colony met their requirements to become a chapter and 38,842 hours of service were completed. “If OPA was being paid minimum wage we would have earned $281,604.50 for our efforts,” she said, referring to a calculation Pamela McEwen would have made. “Operating OPA isn’t something anyone can do alone so I want to take this opportunity to say thank you to everyone who served OPA this year whether you were on the NEB, held an appointed position, or served as a chapter officer. Each role in OPA is important and I appreciate the time everyone takes to serve OPA,” she said. Awards Chairwoman Lynn Dudash announced the sisters nationwide who received Individual Achievement in Service awards as Andie presented certificates. Outstanding Chapter Officer awards and awards for Chapter Travel, Website, Scrapbook, Membership, Chapter Development, Chapter Excellence Program also were given. Former National Service Director Kasey Stevens presented the awards for areas of service and the National Service Award. Vice President of Business Operations Stephanie Hallman thanked convention coordinators and convention bigs for their efforts in making convention a success. Andie said she was excited to work with the new officers. The following were installed: Kasey Stevens, Phi alumna, Vice President of Programs; Lynn Andrews, Omicron alumna, Vice President of Communications; Trista Guzman, Phi alumna, Vice President of Leadership Development and Heather Pritchard, Nu alumna, Vice President of Expansions. Epsilon alumna Nichole Barton was elected Vice President of Administration but was not in attendance and will be installed at a later date. Fall 2011 Photo: Ann DeMatteo Photo: Sarah VanDyke Alpha Kappa delegates receiving service award. 10 CHAPTER FEATURE 1. 3. 4. 6. Photos: Amy Young 2. 5. 7. 1. Sydney Andrew and Meranda O’Gorman working at Jubilee Cafe, a bi-weekly breakfast for the needy. 2. Meranda O’Gorman and Alex Esposito at a park clean-up. 3. Crystal Yakel dressed at Scooby-Doo at Light the Night, a cancer benefit walk last Fall. 4. Theresa Hibler at district retreat. 5. Laurie Gallagher, Bianca Bassel and Sydney Andrew in Stillwater, Oklahoma at our district retreat with OSU last Spring. 6. Alpha Kappa sisters at a tornado relief project in Joplin, Missouri in June. 7. Our tent at Relay for Life, held indoors due to inclement weather. STARS OF SERVICE by Jessica Cole (Phi) T he 2010-11 National Service Award went to Alpha Kappa Chapter at the University of Kansas. This was quite an impressive feat since Alpha Kappa just finished its first year as an active chapter. As well as winning the National Service Award at convention, Alpha Kappa took home a handful of other individual service awards. Members of OPA were very impressed with the kind and quality of service the chapter provided to the community and the world around them. Alpha Kappa worked with a family in Johannesburg, South Africa to provide winter hats and gloves, as well as other necessary supplies, to orphaned students. Sisters became pen pals with the students. It was through these developed relationships that they were able to find out what the students truly desired and needed most. The Alpha Kappa sisters worked hard to bring that desire to a reality. Sisters also continued with a project Fall 2011 that they have been involved with for the past two years. They have built a great relationship with a group of women who have various levels of intellectual disabilities. Small groups of sisters spend time with the women once a week to play games, celebrate holidays, provide fellowship and even simply talking, among other things. They’ve continuously spent time with the women so that it would become more than just a one-time service requirement. They also didn’t want the women to feel that they would never see the sisters of Alpha Kappa again. For a new project, the sisters worked with Emily Hues Dance Studio where at-risk teens take dance lessons. Sisters set up a “Boutique Night” where they “sold” various items, such as clothing, shoes, purses and other accessories to the dancers. Sisters in turn were invited to watch the dancers’ rehearsals where they were preparing for their show. In addition, the Alpha Kappa sisters raised money for the studio to help the owner, Emily Hues, continue to run her studio for her students. These are only a few of the great service projects that the sisters of Alpha Kappa planned and participated in this past year. “This year, it was a unanimous decision to award Alpha Kappa Chapter with the National Service Award. Their projects were deeply thought out and well planned. Not only were they National finalists, they also won multiple Individual Areas of Service Awards. The quality of Alpha Kappa’s projects was amazing and surprising considering how young a chapter they are. This was definitely taken into consideration. It can be said, that I believe Alpha Kappa takes service very seriously, as they should, and it definitely showed through,” said Kasey Stevens, former National Service Director. Alpha Kappa’s service is an inspiration, and it will be interesting to see what the next year brings forth, not only for the sisters of the chapter, but also to the level of service the rest of the OPA will perform. FEATURES 11 SMART SAVINGS by Andie Bowman (Epsilon), National President T o champion last year’s President’s Project a workshop on how to save money was given during convention. The workshop covered basic info on credit, budgeting and how to effectively use coupons at drugstores. Tips on how to organize and properly use coupons were also provided. Our workshop presenter was The Carolina Clipper, Richelle Luchkowec. She started the presentation by asking our sisters where they wanted to be in seven years. Why seven years? Because that is typically how long it takes for blips like a bankruptcy to come off of your credit report. So to ensure you will have the financial means you need, to perhaps buy a house, car or pay for a wedding in the next seven years, you need to make smart choices now. Next, Richelle gave us her personal story about how she had to work her way through college and eventually take out student loans to continue. She detailed how those loans have affected her personal finances. Richelle and her husband began the Dave Ramsey Total Money Makeover. She shared how it had changed their lives and that they were very close to making her last student loan payment due to the modifications they had made to their finances. We also learned how to get real with ourselves and potentially save up to $2,000 a year by doing simple things like ending the gym membership you never use, finding a cheaper cell phone An example shopping trip picture where Richelle spent $3.17 and saved $59.35. Richelle Luchkowec, a Lee University graduate, is stay-at-home mom who was determined to save her family money. She turned her knowledge into a business as well as a way to help others save money. plan, adjusting your cable bill, reducing prescription drug costs by mentioning you need a cheaper option to your doctor who might be able to offer you a discount card. See Richelle’s posting on her blog for more info on this topic: http://thecarolinaclipper.com/2011/04/ financial-spring-cleaning-get-rid-ofclutter/ The workshop illustrated how to wisely use coupons and store promotions to get free items at drugstores. The key is to buy an item that gives you reward money that you immediately turn around and use to buy other merchandise for free. For example, in a drugstore flyer there might be a deal stating, if you purchase a bottle of laundry detergent for $4 you will earn $2 in reward money. If you can find a coupon for the detergent that will lower your out-of-pocket cost, you buy the detergent at discounted price then use the reward money to buy another item (which you can also use a coupon on) thus often making the item have zero cost. She encouraged looking around in drugstores for the items available to purchase that will earn reward dollars for future purchases. For more info about Richelle, visit her website www.thecarolinaclipper.com, follow her on Facebook www.facebook. com/TheCarolinaClipper or contact her at [email protected]. Fall 2011 12 FEATURE IN THE TUNE OF OPA by Ann DeMatteo (Beta), Chevron Copy Editor Fall 2011 OPA guests in attendance,” said Ginger. “It became a theme song for Omicron Chapter in general.” The OPA version of “Pass It On” was first sung by Phi and Alpha Beta chapters in 2003. It is based on a contemporary Christian song of the same name that was popular in the 1970s. “About five years ago I got reacquainted with the Christian version of the song in church and it immediately made me think of OPhiA. I quickly invited myself to a District 6 rally and onto the agenda to lead a workshop, but I didn’t tell them it was a singing workshop,” said Ginger. “After teaching them a few OPA songs that they didn’t know, I then introduced them to the first verse of “Pass It On” in which I had substituted only a few words to change the Christian reference to an OPhiA reference. “After they learned the tune, I then split them up into three groups and challenged them to each write a verse. They were incredible!! All the verses came together to tell a story. We used their version in the induction ceremony for Alpha Zeta Chapter — it was a magical moment! Many of the chapters who witnessed the AZ induction took it home and incorporated it into their pledge activation ceremony. The last line of the lyrics that District 6 wrote -- “Now take the flame and do the same. Now you must pass it on” gives me goose bumps when I envision them in the context of that ritual,” Ginger explained. Now you know the story... behind some of the music. CONGRATULATIONS! Welcome to OPA Alpha Mu! Photos: Aly Inglish D elegates to the 2011 Convention heard the tunes of today and yesteryear in a workshop entitled “OPA: Behind the Music.” Vice President of Alumnae Relations Ginger McGarity opened the songfest with the songs projected upon a screen. The purpose of the tutorial was to familiarize delegates with the tunes of our national songs, explain their history, as well as to teach delegates more recent songs that had been written by newer chapters. Eastern Region alumnae delegate Ann DeMatteo arrived as the workshop began to help Ginger with the sing-a-long. She fondly earned the name “song nazi” from the delegates as she announced that several lines to one or two songs weren’t being sung correctly, despite her tutelage. As a historical point of reference, Ann said that The National Song, to the tune of Edelweiss, was written in part by the late Susan Terzian, our second national president and a sister of Beta Chapter. Ann said that Susan’s mother, the late Roxy Terzian, told her she remembers her daughter working on the words to the tune, which became popular when “The Sound of Music” film starring Julie Andrews came out in theaters in 1965. Ginger reviewed the history of “Hammer and A Nail,” originally written and performed by The Indigo Girls in the 1990s. The song caught the attention of the founding mothers of Omicron Chapter who wrote their own OPA inspired lyrics. “The original lyrics already reflected a very hands-on active commitment to service, leadership and the need to translate good intentions into action. Those Auburn colonists were very influenced by music, and made slight modifications to the original lyrics to include specific references to OPA. They sang it often during their colonization and performed it at their induction for all the All sisters in attendance at the Alpha Mu Induction Ceremony. ALUMNAE 13 VP Alumnae RELATIONS by Ginger McGarity (Delta/Nu), VP Alumnae Relations Hello, Alumnae Chapters? It’s me, Ginger. CALLING ALL ALUMNAE CHAPTERS!!! I NEED TO HEAR FROM YOU AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. Yes, it has come to this. I have been reduced to shouting in my column and begging for emails. Why? Because over the course of the last year, I have heard directly from only ONE of our alumnae chapters. Only one. Are the other alumnae chapters still active? Maybe yes, maybe no. It’s hard to tell. And I don’t have an easy way to contact the alumnae chapters to find out. But let me be totally clear on this: the alumnae chapters themselves are not at fault. As a national organization we have outlined some fairly clear steps to form an alumnae chapter. But we have been strangely vague about what alumnae chapters need to do after they are recognized. So… we form alumnae chapters and then we lose track of them because we have never set any expectations beyond the initial chartering process. We had good intentions, but our constitution, website, policies and procedures are largely silent about how to tell the difference between an active alumnae chapter and an inactive one. It’s not for lack of trying. Over the years, our sisters serving in earlier versions of the Board of Alumnae Affairs have tried to design more structure around alumnae chapter management, but none of those attempts were successful. Maybe the requirements weren’t crisp enough. Maybe they were too restrictive. Maybe (and I’m banking on this one) the time just wasn’t right to introduce that level of structure. Whatever the root cause of our lack of structure in the alumnae chapter arena, it winds up hurting every alumnae chapter and many individual alumnae sisters. When an alumnae sister contacts me and asks whether there is an alumnae chapter in her area, what can I tell her? Yes, I have a list of alumnae chapters that were recognized in the past, but that’s the end of my information. I can’t tell her how often they meet, what kinds of activities they do, or even who to contact for more information. So alumnae chapters are missing out on sisters who really want to be involved… all because of a communication breakdown. This year, the BAA is developing a set of very loose guidelines – more of a collection of recommended “Best Practices” than hard and firm requirements. We recognize that each alumnae chapter has its own personality and area of focus, and we celebrate that diversity in perspective. But… we have many more inactive alumnae chapters than we do active ones, and that’s a barometer that tells us clearly that something is not working. In short, our alumnae chapter management style needs to be revisited at the national level. We’re overdue. To that end, I invite all alumnae chapters who intend to be active this year to be a part of the solution. The BAA has a pretty good start on articulating the best practice activities for a strong alumnae chapter, but we need your input, too. Come join us — it’ll be fun! For details on becoming part of the alumnae movement, please email Ginger McGarity. alumnae(at)omegaphialpha(dot)com Through our bonds, Ginger Fall 2011 14 ALUMNAE CROWN JEWELS OF OPA by Samantha McFarlane (Alpha Kappa) T his year six alumnae were inducted into the Topaz Society, for sisters who have been members for at least 10 years since their activation date. The Sapphire Society is for sisters who have been members for 25 years and Diamond Society for sister who have been members for at least 40 years. The women inducted into the Topaz Society during convention are: Lynn Martin-Hobbie Andrews, Omicron Chapter Keshia Gibson, Nu Chapter Maria “Penny” Guiles, Chi Chapter Stephanie Hallman, Epsilon Chapter Chelsea Morrissey Navo, Nu Chapter Janelle Stevens Tarpey, Delta Chapter Andrews and Navo participated in the candle passes in their honor at banquet – Andrews announced her engagement while Navo announced that she was expecting. actively involved in her church serving as Stewardship Chairman and Youth Leader for Junior High and Senior High students. After witnessing the tragedy of September 11, Lynn assisted with the rescue and recovery efforts at Ground Zero. In January 2005, she spent five months in Uganda with Habitat for Humanity on a mission trip in memory of her father. Longing to continue her travels and not return to corporate America, Lynn transitioned into freelance photography and marketing consulting. She also traveled for a year and a half to Scotland, England, India, Zimbabwe, and South Africa Lynn eagerly awaits her next adventure in life – hopefully marriage, children and developing her own philanthropic foundation to serve others locally and internationally. LYNN MARTIN-HOBBIE ANDREWS Chapter: Omicron (Auburn University Auburn, AL) Pledge Class: Auburn Colony Founding Member in 1991 Number of Years in OPA: 3 1/2 years Positions held in OPA: Founding Member, President, VP Membership, Pledge Educator, Treasurer Summary of your life after OPA: In 1995, Lynn moved to New York City when offered a position by the Pulitzer Prize winning Photographer, Eddie Adams. Her time with Adams lead her to a successful career in advertising. While building her career, Lynn was a member of the NY Junior League and JANELLE (STEVENS) TARPEY Chapter: Delta Pledge Class: Fall 1994 Number of Years in OPA: 3 Positions held in OPA: Pledge Educator Summary of your life after OPA: After graduating from college I moved to Houston to work for a management consulting firm. I eventually met my husband, Jim, and in 2000 moved to his hometown of Philadelphia, PA. In Philadelphia, our older two children, Meghan (7) and Ben (6) joined our family. 2005 brought us another move as we headed south when I accepted an I.T. job at Duke University. Two years ago our family expanded to Fall 2011 5 when our youngest, Ava, joined us. We love North Carolina, but do miss Aggieland and Aggie football! KESHIA GIBSON Chapter: Nu Pledge Class: Party of Five; Pledge Semester: Fall 2000 Number of Years in OPA: 11 Positions held in OPA: Chapter Manager (Nu, 01-02); Chapter Vice-President (Nu, 02-03); Director of Alumni Activities, District 1 (ABOD, 05-07); Alumnae Publications Director (ABOD, 07-09); Omega Gamma Active Chapter Liaison (07-09); Convention Alumnae Delegate (08); Chevron Team (09-present) Summary of your life after OPA: After graduating from Georgia Tech, I moved to D.C. for a few years for work before returning to Atlanta to attend graduate school at Kennesaw State University. As a KSU student, I considered re-activating so that I could have the opportunity of spend as a sister with Alpha Zeta chapter. However, (to my knowledge) becoming an active (again) meant I could no longer hold alumna positions. I was serving on the Alumnae Board of Directors at the time and wanted to continue serving in that role. Instead, I dropped in and provided my support to AZ when I could. While in school, I worked at a non-profit to promote “green” transportation initiatives in Atlanta. After graduating, I was able to continue my engineering and writing degrees to obtain a position as a technical communicator for an IT program, where I currently work today. ALUMNAE MARIA D. “PENNY” GUILES Chapter: Chi Pledge Class: Founding Mother Number of Years in OPA: 1.5 years Positions held in OPA: Pledge Educator and Co-Rush Director Summary of your life after OPA: After graduating, I was not involved in the sorority. Last year, I decided to get back involved. I was a TLC for District 1. This July I attended convention in Charlotte and renewed my commitment. I have applied to be TLC for this upcoming year and I hope to get involved in planning convention as well as any other areas the sorority might need. OPA on the local, regional, and national levels. I supported the local chapter as their CAA, providing workshops and advice to the Executive Board, and attended chapter meetings monthly. I supported my district with district wide events, reaching out to alums to build and participate in the Atlanta Alumnae group. I served my sorority at the national level in a variety of positions collaborating with the ABOD and alumnae at large to design alumnae welcome packets, alumnae societies and alumnae pin, and the redesign of the structure to the Alumnae Board of Directors itself. Outside of OPA, I have a wonderful husband and home, and a career in software engineering which brings me happiness. Photo: Sarah VanDyke CHELSEA NAVO Chapter: Nu Pledge Class: Fall 1999 “Sweet Sixteen” Number of Years in OPA: 11 Positions held in OPA: Nu Chapter President, Nu Chapter Vice President, Nu Chapter Sisterhood Chair, District 3 Active District Officer, Convention 2003 Atlanta team member, NEB: Database Administrator, Chapter Alumnae Advisor for Nu Chapter, ABOD: Director of Alumnae Activities for District 3, Vision 2010 team member, ABOD: Young Alumnae Leader, Omega Gamma President, NEB: Vice President of Alumnae Affairs, Omega Gamma (Atlanta Alumnae) Member Summary of your life after OPA: There is no life AFTER OPA! OPA is a lifelong membership. Summary of my OPA Alumnae years: After graduating from Georgia Tech, I continued to be actively involved with 15 The Topaz Society Inductees were honored for their dedication and commitment to ten years of service. Inductees included (left to right) Stephanie Hallman, Lynn Martin-Hobbie Andrews, Janelle Stevens Tarpey, Chelsea Morrissey Navo, Maria "Penny" Guiles and Keshia Gibson. Fall 2011 16 ALUMNAE Festive Fare for Alumnae Luncheon Photo: Sarah VanDyke by Ann DeMatteo (Beta), Chevron Copy Editor Genevieve Davis. Juanita Wade led us in an icebreaker by asking how many pairs of shoes each of us brought to convention. It started with everyone standing. We sat down one by one until Dawn Tupper was the last standing. She brought 13 pairs with her! (Actually 14, she forgot to count her bowling shoes!) The average number for the majority of alums was 5. Ginger announced a never-before opportunity for each of us to fill out a coupon that would enable one of us to win an alumnae raffle ticket. The winner of the alumnae raffle receives full transportation, Alums after the Alumnae Luncheon. convention fee and lodging at convention. Mu alumna Susie Larson has won the raffle two bout 40 alumnae of Omega Phi consecutive years. She was selected to Alpha were treated to a lovely draw the name of the sister that would luncheon at Convention 2011. win her chance to enter the raffle. The luncheon was officiated by Vice Typically a $25 donation is required. President of Alumnae Relations Ginger Lynn Dudash passed out alumnae McGarity and National President Andie awards. Bowman. Ann DeMatteo of Beta Chapter won Ginger introduced her Board of the Alumnae Travel Award for traveling Alumnae Affairs: DAA South Region: the most amount of miles -- 729 -- “in Elizabeth Anderson; DAA East Region: distance and spirit.” Jessica Cole; DAA West Region: Missy The Alumnae Chapter Travel Award Martinez; DAA Midwest Region: Megan went to Phi Chapter, whose members Mary Cassel; Alumnae Secretary: and alums traveled 6,000 miles to get to Juanita Wade; Young Alumnae Leader: convention. Megan Johnston; Alumnae Society BAA member Elizabeth Anderson Coordinator: Mackenzie Garretson, introduced the Susan Terzian Award and Alumnae Convention Coordinator: A Fall 2011 winners who were in the audience: Ann DeMatteo, Ginger McGarity, Pamela McEwen, and Sarah VanDyke. Alumnae Society members were recognized by BAA member Mackenzie Garretson, Topaz Society: Sarah VanDyke, Leann Williams, Elizabeth Anderson and Juanita Wade. Sapphire Society: Susie Larson, Ginger McGarity, Ann DeMatteo, Pamela McEwen. Diamond Society: Thelma Riehle. Mackenzie then introduced those who would be inducted into alumnae societies during Convention, Topaz: Lynn Andrews, Janelle Stevens Tarpey, Chelsea Morrisey Navo, Keshia Gibson, Stephanie Hallman, and Penny Guiles. Alumnae delegates were also introduced: South: Elizabeth Anderson, Lynn Andrews, Juanita Wade, Bambi McLesky. West: Kasey Stevens, Trista Guzman, Katarina Gomez, Bridget Schiller. Midwest: Thelma Riehle, Sarah VanDyke, Lynn Dudash, Caley Foster. East: Ann DeMatteo, Erica Fey, Penny Guiles, Dawn Tupper. At-Large: Laura Mass. In conclusion, Ginger passed out tiny yellow rose sticker pins and M&M favors branded with OPA in yellow, light blue and dark blue. Andie reviewed her financial education and money management President’s Project thanking everyone for her support and participation. At the conclusion of the alumnae-only luncheon, everyone posed for a wonderful group photo with Ophia. ALUMNAE 17 Sister UPDATES Cheryl Parker (Alpha Eta) recently graduated with a master’s of public health degree concentrating in environmental health from Fort Valley State University on May 7. She is residing in Warner, Robins, GA. Cheryl can be reached at cherylprkr (at) gmail (dot) com. Heather Crow (Alpha) can be reached at hcmcrow1 (at) sbcglobal (dot) net. Kinjal Dalal (Chi) recently completed a two-year trainee program with Robert Bosch North American and is now living in the Raleigh, NC area. Kinjal can be reached at dalal.kinjal (at) gmail (dot) com. Shannon Perman (Omicron) is a high school world history teacher for Montgomery Public Schools. Shannon can be reached at shannonperman (at) yahoo (dot) com. Marie (Hovis) Davies (Alpha Gamma) and Matthew Davies married on April 17. She is a mental health clinician working for Counseling and Recover Services of Oklahoma and living in Broken Arrow, OK. Marie can be reached at marierh82 (at) yahoo (dot) com. Desiree (Portalis) Provost (Upsilon) married Damion Provost on Aug. 6. She is working in human resources for Dauterive Hospital and resides in Lafayette, LA. Desiree can be reached at desireeportalis (at) gmail (dot) com. Kimberly Farlow (Alpha Zeta) completed her bachelor’s degree in accounting. Kimberly can be reached at Beachgirl634 (at) Comcast (dot) com. Mandi (Humphrey) Roberson (Epsilon) married John Roberson in June. Mandi and John purchased their first home and now live in Hixson, TN. Mandi can be reached at MandiMRoberson (at) gmail (dot) com. Alicia Freeman (Alpha Eta) is a special events coordinator living in Graniteville, SC. She will be attending Howard University working toward a master’s degree in speech and pathology and audiology. Alicia can be reached at Alicia.Freeman7 (at) gmail (dot) com. Lauren Sanchez (Rho) is an academic advisor at Layola University Chicago. Lauren can be reached at Lasanz85 (at) gmail (dot) com. Bridget Schiller (Alpha Delta) received her bachelor’s degree from Georgia Southern University in May 2010 and lives and works in the Atlanta area. Bridget can be reached at bridget. schiller (at) gmail (dot) com. Michele (Helton) Hughey (Mu) has started her own business selling Scentsy Wickless Candles. Michele can be reached at shellhughey (at) live (dot) com. Photo: Hillary Koehler Misty Kelley (Chi & Alpha Eta) is in graduate school at the Medical College of Georgia pursuing a MSN clinical nurse leader degree and will graduate in December 2011. Misty can be reached at misty.n.kelley (at) gmail (dot) com. Hillary (Snyder) Koehler (Phi) gave birth to her first child, a boy, Keegan Robert Koehler on June 26 at 2:58 a.m. He was 8 lbs., 9 ounces and 20½ inches long. Hillary can be reached at hasnyder (at) asu (dot) edu. Jessica (Patrick) Krumtinger (Phi) is a non-profit event planner and lives in Peoria, AZ. Jessica can be reached at jessicalacie (at) gmail (dot) com. Photo: Jessica Toms Maria D. “Penny” (Owens) Guiles (Chi) is now living in Richmond, VA. Penny can be reached at pguiles08 (at) gmail (dot) com. Jessica (Cole) Toms (Phi) married Seneca Toms on June 11 in Raleigh, NC. She recently graduated with her master’s degree in adult education from East Carolina University. Jessica can be reached at Jessica.k.cole (at) gmail (dot) com. Sarah (Hatley) VanDyke (Delta) moved this summer to the Austin, TX area. She has created an Austin Area Alumnae group on Facebook for anyone that would like to get in touch with other alumnae in the area. Sarah can be reached at SarahAg96 (at) gmail (dot) com. Brittney Williams (Upsilon) is living in Baker, LA working as a criminal records analyst for the Louisiana State Police. Brittney can be reached at Williams.brittney.d (at) gmail (dot) com. Fall 2011 18 CHAPTER REPORTS CHAPTER REPORTS NU CHAPTER Georgia Institute of Technology Nu Chapter has been up to a lot over the past summer. After a great spring rush and seeing many of our sisters graduate, we are a chapter with 43 actives. While many of these actives used the summer to take classes, some took the opportunity to study abroad in programs such as Georgia Tech Lorraine and the Greece/Italy architecture program. We had some sisters interning with companies like Michelin, and one sister even worked with a hospital in Bermuda with Georgia Tech’s Biomedical Engineering Department. Two sisters attended Convention where they really enjoyed the opportunity to meet other sisters and partake in such decision-making opportunities as elections. Our chapter has also been busy preparing for the fall. Our membership director has planned an amazing rush — the theme will be “Service and Spice and Everything Nice.” Our girls have been tabling at freshman orientations to find new pledges. We are also looking forward to some great service projects, including the usual favorites ,Books for Africa and Global Soap and a new project working on the AIDS Memorial Quilt. Fall 2011 Photo: Emily Smith RHO CHAPTER Western Kentucky University Rho Chapter Ariel Salmons helping out at the Special Olympics. The 2010-11 school year was a monumental one for Rho Chapter. We had 70 young ladies demonstrating their interest in friendship, leadership, and service during Fall Rush of 2010. We ended up with 69 actives closing the Spring 2011 semester. Omega Phi Alpha at WKU won first place for the float and second place overall during Homecoming 2010. We also won the Unity Step Show for the second year. Academically, Rho won the 2010-11 Most Members of a Sorority in the WKU Honors College and Highest New Member GPA Fall 2010. One outstanding lady, Caley Foster, was inducted into the WKU Greek Hall of Fame — the first sister to be awarded this honor. With great expectations for Rush Week, “Paparazzi: We’re Your Biggest Fans,” is the theme, with events planned to include making iCare boxes for a local children’s home and assembling flower pens for Teacher Appreciation Week. Rho is very hopeful that it goes as well, if not better, than last fall. For service projects — one idea is to join Epsilon Chapter to visit St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. We plan to help out with various fall festivals, make care packages for troops and host BINGO at a local retirement home. Rho cannot wait to show everyone the difference we are making on campus, in the community and around the world. UPSILON CHAPTER University of Louisiana at Lafayette After increasing our chapter with more than 20 newly activated sisters, we are ready to act on new ideas and build up our chapter on campus. Our calendar is filled with recruiting, sisterhood and service projects through November. Some of these activities include a campus parking spot giveaway as a fundraiser, sisterhood forums on OPA’s Constitution, Robert’s Rules of Order and OPA songs and rituals. We will be tailgating for homecoming and have a full service weekend during which we, along with the fall pledge class, will volun- teer at the local Boys & Girls Club, visit the elderly at a local nursing home and attend a church service as a chapter with a picnic to follow. Upsilon is excited to recruit more sisters; 100 girls have signed up for rush events. The Fall 2011 pledge class will be “Ophia’s Guilty Pleasures.” Each pledge will receive a name relating to sweets, such as ice cream, cookies or candy. Beginning with our campus “Get on Board Day,” the theme will be incorporated in all pledge events. Mixers will have sweet treats and bright decorations and rush T-shirts to be noticeable and complementary of the name. Our goal is to bring in a maximum of 40 new actives. With fresh ideas and eager members, we are ready to further develop our chapter and make our presence known on campus and in surrounding areas. PHI CHAPTER Arizona State University Photos: Trista Guzman EPSILON CHAPTER Tennessee Technological University We had a fabulous, fun-filled summer and are ready to get back in the swing of things! We will start the semester with fall rush, themed: “America.” With a theme for each night of rush: leadership, sisterhood and service. For our leadership night, we will have a lot of conversation to get to know each other. We explain what OPA is about and introduce our officers. For our sisterhood night, the second night, we will have a 1980s theme dressing up in our best ‘80s gear to dance the night away. We will also be playing games to get to know each other better. Service night will be our red, white and blue American night. All the sisters will wear rush shirts and do our first service project of the year when we make care packages for troops overseas. Each year on this night, we always have a bake-off and sisters make a cake or dessert to enter into a contest. Sisters and rushees will vote for the best-tasting dessert. Bids will also be prepared. For service, we will be participating in Nashville Zoo’s Ghouls at Grassmere. We do this each fall and have a huge turnout. This is one of our favorites because we all get to dress up in Halloween costumes. For fellowship, we will have our fall sisterhood retreat. We are so excited about what’s in store for the new school year. Phi Chapter following Fall 2010 Activation This fall will be exciting for Phi. We are expecting about 60 active sisters with a number of those returning from back-toback LOA’s. Despite an Alpha Beta pledge class of four, we are expecting a wonderful semester of strong bonding among sisters. Our wonderful membership director, Katie Knudtson, has planned an amazing fashion- themed rush: “Strut Your Way to OPhiA.” Events include a “Devil Wears Prada” mani/pedi night promoting fashion, sisterhood and Sun Devil pride; a 9/11 candlelight ceremony to show our support for those who serve us, and a “Capture the Fashion” game similar to “Capture the Flag.” Phi not only is keeping it professional in our attire but also in the classroom. We had the highest GPA of all of ASU’s Greek life with an average GPA of 3.39. Phi also brought home incredible recognitions from Convention. We not only received the Silver Level Award in Chapter Excellence, but we also had the top three highest individual hours of service. Our president, service director, treasurer and membership directors were recognized for their outstanding work. Phi Chapter will keep striving to be the best we possibly can as we work with some CHAPTER REPORTS familiar organizations like Feed My Starving Children, Project Streetlight and Girl Scout Badge Day, while also introducing new projects such as Project Night Night. We also will put together a philanthropic golf tournament. 19 jous Day Halloween party, and many other events that might have some “losing their heads” from the fun. ALPHA ALPHA CHAPTER Northern Arizona University Photos: Britan Katz Current picture of Alpha Zeta Chapter Alpha Alpha at Take Back The Night in Flagstaff Sping 2011 The fall is going to be wonderfully productive and enjoyable. Membership Director Veronica Poore came up with our Rush Week theme, “Saving the World Through Service.” For each event -- information night, sisterhood night, service night and interviews -- actives will receive a “super” name to be paired with real names to make it easier for the pledges to get to know everyone. On our sisterhood night we will play superhero-themed games, which will allow us the opportunity to learn more about our pledges. The 49 actives have incredible service opportunities available to us. For a second year, we plan to assist with a walk for Parkinson’s — we help by fundraising and assist on the day of the walk. We intend to build a float for the homecoming parade, a fun sisterhood project as well as a great way to be more involved in our university community. Last year we adopted a street downtown, which we continue to clean once a month. It is great exposure and also helps out our town in a small, but important way. We always try to help out the Flagstaff Family Food Center at least once a semester by cooking meals and serving them. There is a new opportunity to work with a facility for reintroducing struggling women into the work force called Hopes Closet. This year is going to be busy, but incredible. ALPHA ZETA CHAPTER Kennesaw State University We started the Fall 2011 semester with 50 actives and immense anticipation of a vast pledge class. Our rush theme was “Peace, Love, and OphiA,” inspired by a 60’s collection. The first night was a meet and greet, along with a game to introduce the key principles of our sorority. The second night reviewed the various colors, animals, flowers and candy of each family. Rush concluded with service night. We hosted a small service project that fit the theme. Every sister has an extensive service agenda. We are planning to reach out to the Ronald McDonald House in Atlanta, to visit the City of Refuge and to participate in Books for Africa again. In addition, the chapter will put together wish baskets, soldier care packages and collect yogurt tops for breast cancer. We are also looking forward to several new projects such as cleaning Lake Allatoona, hosting a lunch buddies session and volunteering at the Atlanta Zoo. As all of these events are highlighted on our agendas, it scarcely defines the excitement that each of us has for this semester. ALPHA THETA CHAPTER Pennsylvania State University Alpha Theta has 46 active sisters. We do not use rush themes, but our rush activities include crafts, get-to-know-you games and a service project. This semester we are looking forward to our many service projects, including our annual Life Link Halloween Party. Throughout the whole semester we are going to work on reducing our carbon footprints. We are very excited to announce that we received the Panhellenic Council Chapter of the Year award, which means we were the top sorority out of the 22 sororities in the Panhellenic Council at Penn State. Sisters worked really hard for this award, as well as for our Chapter of Excellence award. We also can’t wait to meet the newest chapter in our district, the BU sisters. ALPHA IOTA CHAPTER Notre Dame of Maryland University Alpha Iota is excited to start the academic year with 20 actives, including four new ladies joining our ranks. A thrilling fall rush brought the fantasy of “Alice in Wonderland” to life. A motto of “I’ve often seen letters without a girl, but a girl without letter! It’s a curious thing!” enticed new perspectives to join in on Mad Hatter tea parties, flamingo croquette, even a Frab- Alpha Iota Spring Activation Ceremony This semester includes service projects that hit deep with many of the sisters including a food drive for “Turn Around” a local non-profit organization that deals with rape victims as well as domestic violence survivors; Race for the Cure; Bead for Life, an organization that helps women sell jewlery so they can fight poverty; adopting a family with project H.O.P.E which is dedicated to providing lasting solutions to health problems with the mission of helping people to help themselves; a toy drive to benefit Toys for Tots. These are just a few of the projects that will allow us to help out one person at a time. We are looking forward to once again extending our best hand to help out those in need and also welcoming in our new sisters. ALPHA LAMBDA CHAPTER North Carolina State University We are starting our second year as an active chapter, and are so excited to be welcoming our third pledge class this fall. Alpha Lambda is starting the year with 13 active sisters, and with expectations for a large pledge class, we are all thrilled to grow as a new organization on campus. “THINK PINK: RUSH OPA” (in the style of Victoria Secret’s PINK line), is the theme, and in doing so, we are organizing all of our service projects for Rush to benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure, tying all of the projects into something that is so close to our sisters’ hearts. We are doing an informal “meet and greet week” the week before Rush so that all girls interested in pledging can attend information sessions and have a chance to just hang out with the sisters before making the decision to rush. During Rush Week, we are participating in a game night, several smaller service projects (making cards, handing out free snacks and information about breast cancer awareness) and more. We are so excited about this year and our recruitment process. We wish all of our other chapters the best of luck with their recruitment and service events. Fall 2011 OMEGA PHI ALPHA NATIONAL SERVICE SORORITY National Office PO Box 955 East Lyme, CT 06333 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED NATIONAL CALENDAR Oct Oct 1 Oct 2-8 Oct 15 - Consult with your TLC about District Rally - Submit names and contact info of sisters who will be entering alumnae status after current school term, YAL@ omegaphialpha.org - National Insignia Week - National Fundraising Week - President’s Council Report Due, www.omegaphialpha.org/forum - Pledge Roster from each chapter due, [email protected] - Membership status report form and updated active addresses due, [email protected] Nov 1 - Active and Pledge Fees (Send dues transmittal form and money), [email protected] Nov 6-12 - National Service Week Nov 15 - President’s Council Report Due, www.omegaphialpha.org/forum - Chevron Deadline #2, [email protected] Dec Dec 15 - Pledge summary due 2 weeks before activation, [email protected] - Mid-year Report due from all chapters, [email protected] - Mid-year Service Project Form due, [email protected] (To add your events and activities, please email them to [email protected] with “Chevron Calendar” in the subject. Issue 2 (Winter Issue) for 2011-2012 will identify events and activities for January-April.