tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54192658331648161252024-03-05T14:34:03.884-08:00Theta Phi Alpha | President's CornerTheta Phi Alphahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02196882551306536885noreply@blogger.comBlogger19125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419265833164816125.post-89368004056422908512017-07-30T08:21:00.000-07:002017-07-30T22:03:00.050-07:00Part 2 of 2: Where is the Fraternity going and how do we get there?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I began this blog by referring to a long range strategic plan for 2007-2027. The plan was very appropriate and forward thinking in 2007. Now, we need to be able to adapt quickly to change and develop an action plan that allows us to be more fluid in response to a rapidly changing world. Looking back at the plan in comparison with where we are today, you will see that the major areas of focus are basically the same. The strategic planning committee chose these six areas of focus: </span><blockquote class="tr_bq" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I.
Collegiate Chapter Growth and Retention</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">II.
Education and Training</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">III.
Infrastructure</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">IV.
Financial Stability and Capability</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">V.
Lifetime Involvement</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">VI.
Marketing and Communications</span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">I think we can all agree that these areas are still
important. The goals that the Grand Council members set for ourselves to
accomplish during this biennium fit into these categories as well. The first
goal was Volunteer Training. We piloted a chapter advisor track at the
Northeast Officer Leadership Training (OLT) in January 2017 and will offer this
training at each regional OLT in 2018. We have updated the volunteer form to
include the StrengthsFinder information and are working on updating volunteer
job descriptions to include not just the general duties of the position but the
amount of time required on a weekly or monthly basis, as well as an expected
length of time commitment for the position. We would like to then develop a
clear process for review and placement as well as annual 360-degree evaluation.
We are developing training webinars for volunteers, beginning with general
topics and progressing to more position specific information. These items
address goals from that 2007 plan in several areas. Although we focused on what
we could accomplish this biennium, the work we are doing still fits into this
20-year-plan. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">We have looked at various methods to improve
collaboration/communication between our growing staff and Grand Council. We
will all be learning to use a new communication and scheduling tool called
Igloo over the summer. We chose this platform after consulting with the other
NPC groups, as this was the one they were most satisfied with. In order for governance to function properly,
there needs to be constant communication between the strategic planning and the
executing. The staff needs to be aware of the strategic vision of Grand Council
and Grand Council needs to be aware of the day-to-day work that is happening to
make that strategic vision a reality. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The Grand Council is examining many of the programs
and processes we have in place to determine what services we can provide to our
members using volunteers and staff we already have, and what we would like to
provide by contracting to an outside company who can specialize in that area. Of
course, a large part of this is budgeting. We are examining all of our expenses
and have made great improvements in our ability to accurately forecast what we
will spend over the course of a year. As we are looking in detail at where
money is being spent we have been able to implement several cost saving
measures and use our money more wisely. I see a lot of parallels in what I
learned owning a franchise for five years and being National President. Theta
Phi Alpha is a business, and we have to think of it in that way in order to be
successful. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">National Office space is also a large topic of
consideration. This goes back further than the 2007 strategic plan, although in
this plan under infrastructure a sub-point was “implement a plan to provide
sufficient office space for operations and growth.” One of the things Shane
McGoey, Executive Director, has done is to negotiate with the landlord and
other tenants in the building to secure more space for us, as well as to more
efficiently use the space we have. However, if you have ever visited our
National Office, you know it is not the most conducive arrangement. We have
looked for other suitable office space in the area for many years, and have not
come up with many options. One issue is that we would pay considerably more
rent anywhere else we go, but this is a reality that we need to prepare for. We
have considered a capital campaign to purchase or lease long-term, rather than
rent property, but there are costs associated with owning commercial real
estate that may offset the benefits. We have talked about this issue for over
20 years and have come to the point that we really need to develop a plan with
a clear timeline to address this need. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">In the end,<i> Nothing
great is ever achieved without much enduring.</i> Theta Phi Alpha has endured
for 105 years. We have persevered and survived when many thought we wouldn’t or
couldn’t. We have grown despite challenges and setbacks. We are living in an
exciting time for Theta Phi Alpha, the possibilities are endless, and we are in
a position to take advantage of them. The Grand Council’s role in Theta Phi
Alpha has not changed. Grand Council has always set the direction of the Fraternity,
and we are now in a position to have professional staff to support and help
develop our volunteers who work with our members. Governance is a process – it
doesn’t happen overnight. Many other NPC groups have been transitioning to this
for anywhere from seven to 13 years. We will continue to develop our staff
model, continually evaluate our volunteer structure, and improve our volunteer
training to truly develop our volunteers’ leadership skills. We want to ensure
qualified candidates for higher level positions, including Grand Council, in
the future. Without you, our members, who have given their time, talents, and
treasure to Theta Phi Alpha over the years, we would have long ago ceased to
exist. The transition to governance is a positive development for our future as
an organization.</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The commitment of our volunteers has always been the
backbone of Theta Phi Alpha, and will continue to be. Please consider filling
out the <a href="http://my.thetaphialpha.org/FormEngine/RenderForm.aspx?FormDefinitionID=27&FormResponseID=0" target="_blank">National Officer Interest form on the member portal </a>and being a part of our continued
success! </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Theta Phi Alphahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02196882551306536885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419265833164816125.post-36239967310829946292017-06-30T12:32:00.000-07:002017-07-30T21:49:05.624-07:00Part 1 of 2: Where is the Fraternity going and how do we get there?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_DGVzOoKmD_g19jyxGNi-lsXnOWNsDbw9ym0iFvL5zeyODxCfN4420XeR7xoZfmCBDEAEifkAeGMXnG8lhKxg-abo2xYZASWferiqaqSz2aw6qrRRMkyAhb_YLjHTR30sIkfO0wTANWo/s1600/Vision.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_DGVzOoKmD_g19jyxGNi-lsXnOWNsDbw9ym0iFvL5zeyODxCfN4420XeR7xoZfmCBDEAEifkAeGMXnG8lhKxg-abo2xYZASWferiqaqSz2aw6qrRRMkyAhb_YLjHTR30sIkfO0wTANWo/s320/Vision.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 107%;">I’m going to take you on a journey through our history
over the next two months to answer the question: <i>Where is the Fraternity going and how do we get there?</i> Theta Phi
Alpha last held a long-range strategic planning meeting in 2007. This meeting
of 28 sisters and friends was coordinated by Kristin Henkenius, </span><span style="line-height: 107%;">Alpha Pi</span><span style="line-height: 107%;">, and facilitated by Ginny Carroll of
InGinuity. The plan that came from this meeting was to be a 20-year-plan. This
group identified six areas of focus: collegiate
chapter growth and retention; education and training; infrastructure; financial
stability and capability; lifetime involvement; and, marketing and
communication. We are now halfway through
the 20 years, so I started by looking at the updates and changes that have been
made as well as the progress. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Since 2007, we have experienced significant growth and
make great progress towards these goals. We have chartered or reinstated 25
chapters and 10 alumnae associations. Think about that -- that’s nearly half of
our chapters! In that respect, we are a very young sorority. How does an
organization deal with that amount of growth over such a short period of time?
Technology has played a large role, as well as changes in our volunteer
structure and additions to our staff. Out of necessity to serve an increasing number
of chapters, our staff began to take on more responsibility, still under the
direction of Grand Council. In the last few years, Grand Council introduced the
concept of governance and hired an Executive Director with significant
experience in the fraternal world. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">While sisters understand the need for growth and
change, some have expressed fear that we are losing our identity, or that
non-members are making decisions for the Fraternity. The concept of governance
is not new. One definition of governance is, “set the strategic vision and
direction and formulate high-level goals and policies.” This is what Grand
Council has always done and still does. There is a difference between
governance and management. In the early years, Grand Council did both, although
there are references to a paid staff member as early as the 1940s. A letter
from Acting Grand President Irene Devlin in 1927 mentions the establishment of
a central office. Today, governance still refers to the role of the Grand
Council, and management refers to the role of National Office staff. The chart
below illustrates the difference in duties between the Grand Council and the
National Office staff (credit: <a href="http://unesco.org/">unesco.org</a>).<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b><u>Governance
(Grand Council)</u> </b> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 233.75pt;" valign="top" width="234"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b><u>Management
(National Office staff)</u><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 233.75pt;" valign="top" width="237"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">*Sets
norms, strategic vision and direction, and formulate high-level policies. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 233.75pt;" valign="top" width="234"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">*Run
the organization in line with the broad goals and direction set by the governing
goals and body. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
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<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 233.75pt;" valign="top" width="237"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">*Oversee
management and organizational performance to ensure that the organization is
working in the best interests of the public, and more specifically the stakeholders
who are served by the organization’s mission.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 233.75pt;" valign="top" width="234"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">*Implement
the decisions within the context of the mission and strategic vision.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 233.75pt;" valign="top" width="237"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">*Direct
and oversee the management to ensure that the organization is achieving the
desired outcomes and to ensure that the organization is acting prudently,
ethically and legally.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 233.75pt;" valign="top" width="234"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">*Make
operational decisions and policies, keep the governance bodies informed and
educated.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 233.75pt;" valign="top" width="237"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">*
Be responsive to requests for additional information.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 107%;">Back to the question: <i>Where are we going?</i> I searched the archives for information about
our earliest years and any reference I could find to the goals our Founders had
in mind for Theta Phi Alpha. In our archives, we have a letter from Mildred
Connely detailing our early history. She writes that Amelia “believed that
Theta Phi Alpha would never “arrive” on the University campus until it enjoyed
Panhellenic recognition.” She worked diligently to achieve that recognition.
Some of our early expansion was driven by the National President writing letters
to bishops asking for their support in establishing a chapter at a local
university. A 1927 letter from Acting Grand President Irene Devlin confirms
that Theta Phi Alpha was starting to petition for membership in National
PanHellenic Congress (what is now the National Panhellenic Conference). While
talking with Karen Rubican, Sigma</span><span style="line-height: 107%;">,
National Historian, on this topic, she described our growth since 1912 as
periods of “feast or famine.” We have alternated between great progress and
huge setbacks. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Bishop Kelly and Amelia had founded Theta Phi Alpha
after the failure of a previous group called Omega Upsilon. Both were initially
intended to provide support for Catholic girls to practice their faith while
attending a public university. But I don’t think that’s all Amelia intended for
us to be. If that were the only goal, then why was Panhellenic recognition so
important to her? Why extend to other universities? <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Clearly Amelia had big dreams for us. Throughout the
1920s, 1930s and 1940s, Theta Phi Alpha applied for membership in what was by
then the National Panhellenic Conference. We were finally granted full
membership in 1952, so unfortunately Amelia did not live to see this
achievement. We struggled through the late 1980s to maintain enough chapters to
keep that membership. At one point, we were moved to associate member status
and given a deadline to increase the number of chapters. It was during those
years (the 1980s) that serious discussions were held regarding our existence.
At the 1982 National Convention, the Grand Council was given the authority to
decide our future. The Board of Trustees was charged with conducting research
on our options of dissolution, merging, consolidating or forming a new sorority
and were to report back by the next Convention. I am so glad that Grand Council
chose to continue Amelia’s dream. By 1992, we had 36 collegiate chapters, which
represented nearly 300% growth in 10 years!
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 107%;">We have continued this rapid growth pattern until the
present, alternating between periods of growth and periods of holding steady to
develop the infrastructure to maintain chapters. In 1994, we rented office
space in Bay Village and moved our “National Office” out of the National
Executive Secretary’s home! (Make sure you are receiving <i>The Compass</i> magazine, because there will be an article in the Fall 2017
issue detailing the history of our National Office.) All of this happened
because of the efforts of a large number of volunteers who sacrificed personal
time, and sometimes their career, for the advancement of Theta Phi Alpha. Their
efforts made it possible for us to be where we are today. Another factor in our
success has been the investment in technology. A digital database and the use
of email were two of the earliest tools we began to use</span><span style="line-height: 107%;">. The growth of the internet soon
brought us more opportunities to increase the frequency and ease of
communications.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 107%;">Throughout most of our history, members of Grand
Council and other volunteers also managed the day to day work of the Fraternity.
We are now on the cusp of transitioning, as Liz Eberhart, </span><span style="line-height: 107%;">Alpha Gamma</span><span style="line-height: 107%;">, National Treasurer, always says, “We
went from a mom and pop company to a mid-size business in a short period of
time.” Liz has volunteered at the national level with Theta Phi Alpha in a
variety of areas from Editor of <i>The Compass</i>
to Board of Trustees to Theta Phi Alpha Foundation Director, and now as our
National Treasurer. As treasurer, she deals with the nuts and bolts of the
business side of the Fraternity. As a loyal sister with over 30 years of volunteer
service, she understands the member aspect of our organization as well as the
business side. For the majority of our history, we were a small mom and pop
company. We could handle the “business” of running the Fraternity solely with
volunteers. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 107%;">Sororities exist by competing for members on
university campuses during recruitment and by competing with each other at
extension opportunities. Even though we are all not-for-profit organizations</span><span style="line-height: 107%;">,
we succeed by excelling at sales and marketing. Our “competitors” in this
“business” are the other 25 NPC groups. We need to deliver the same
professional level of materials, programming, and service to our members in
order to exist in this arena. There are many opportunities competing for the
time and attention of a college woman today and sororities are just one of
them. Our alumnae members are busy women who deserve to have a variety of
opportunities for engagement with Theta Phi Alpha throughout their lives. Governance
is simply another step in this direction as we seek to improve the quality and
consistency of information, programming, and the entire member experience</span><span style="line-height: 107%;">. As we continue to grow as an organization we
will be able to offer more services to our members. Next month’s blog will
continue this discussion with some of the goals we have in place for the rest
of this biennium.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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Theta Phi Alphahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02196882551306536885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419265833164816125.post-90213682117880556772017-05-30T13:45:00.001-07:002017-05-30T22:24:08.933-07:00You graduated... now what?!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Congratulations to the Class of 2017! Theta Phi Alpha is so
proud of you and all your accomplishments. We know that you have achieved many
scholastic and personal accomplishments in the past four years. Whether you
were initiated as a freshman or a senior, you have been a part of our collegian
population and now move onto the wonderful world of being an alumna!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">So... what exactly does this mean? You enjoyed Senior
Farewell and then graduated, and now you're an alumna. Sometimes
we can get wrapped up in the business of our chapter, and forget that the basis
of our sorority is sisterhood. Now is the best time to celebrate our
sisterhood!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Transitioning to the alumnae phase is one of the best parts
of Theta Phi Alpha. The alumnae phase is the longest phase of membership, so you
have the most years to enjoy it! The Fraternity has many ways for alumnae to
stay involved in Theta Phi Alpha and enjoy the many benefits that come with our
sisterhood. Below are just a few of the many things you can do to stay
involved.</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Join your local alumnae association or club.
Don’t know where to locate the association or club or any women in the
association? Fill out the <a href="http://thetaphialpha.org/alumnae-association-interest-form" target="_blank">Alumnae Association Interest Form</a></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">.
Don’t have an alumnae association or club in your area? Email <a href="mailto:sue@thetaphialpha.org" target="_blank">Sue Check</a>, Director
of Alumnae Services,</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">and request information on starting an
alumnae association or club. Fill out the <a href="http://thetaphialpha.celect.org/site/forms/9129" target="_blank">Member Contact Request Form</a> and find
other alumnae in your area to start an association or a club.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Pay your Alumnae Dues. Paying your Alumnae Dues
allows you to be a member in good standing, and receive all Fraternity
communications and publications, including </span><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;">The
Compass</i><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">. Dues are a minimum of $50 per year and the annual Alumnae Dues
Appeals launches every September.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span></span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Join us during the even years for National
Convention! This is one of my favorite alumnae activities! We encourage all our
sisters to attend National Convention if you are able. For the past few
Conventions, we have been able to offer an alumnae outing prior to the start of
Convention. We will offer that and other alumnae activities in Pittsburgh next
summer. We hope to have some alumnae programming as well. You’ll meet so many
wonderful sisters and learn so many new things if you come to Convention. Join
us July 11-15, 2018 in Pittsburgh!</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Follow the Fraternity! Check us out on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ThetaPhiAlphaFraternity/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thetaphialpha_national/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/Theta_Phi_Alpha" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/theta-phi-alpha" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/theta-phi-alpha" target="_blank"> </a>and our <a href="http://thetaphialpha.celect.org/home" target="_blank">website</a>. Stay connected to all things
Theta Phi Alpha and see what is going in around the country and in your area!</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Volunteer to serve as a National Officer. There
are many volunteer jobs within the Fraternity. Fill out the <a href="http://thetaphialpha.celect.org/national-volunteer-form" target="_blank">National Officer application</a></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> and when a position becomes available that you might be matched with, someone
from our staff will contact you. We are always looking for women to serve on
our Chapter Advisory Boards, so if there are chapters in your area (even if
it’s not your own), please indicate that on the form. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Donate to the <a href="https://thetaphialpha.celect.org/donate-to-the-foundation" target="_blank">Theta Phi Alpha Foundation</a>. The
Foundation supports so many wonderful things in Theta Phi Alpha, and it’s
important to make sure that we give back to the Foundation. Scholarship is one
of the most important aspects of our Fraternity, and the Foundation prioritizes
it and awards many scholarships each year. You can apply for a Foundation
Scholarship if you are a graduate student as well! Donations to the Foundation
can be directed to many different funds, from specific scholarship funds to
educational funds and the general fund as well.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Volunteer for an event in your area. Theta Phi
Days are usually held in the fall throughout many regions of the country. Each region
has a Coordinator and Lead Facilitator, with other sisters assisting in the
facilitation of the curriculum. Watch for the announcement for Theta Phi Days
coming this fall. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Register for our new membership portal,
<a href="http://my.thetaphialpha.org/">my.thetaphialpha.org</a><span id="goog_1909925083"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_1909925084"></span>. You can see your donations to the Foundation, your
service records, find other sisters, add mentoring information, and pay your Alumnae
Dues. Our membership portal assists us in connecting our sisterhood, so
encourage others to sign up! (The portal requires a separate login from the
login that you use for the Theta Phi Alpha website.)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Update your contact information with the
National Office and encourage your other sisters to do the same. This is a very
important if you want to stay informed, engaged, and involved! Theta Phi Alpha
needs the most updated contact information in order to make sure we can send
you newsletters and other important news. You are able to update your contact
information in the membership portal, my.thetaphialpha.org. (Follow #8 to register and update your information!)</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Find alumnae in your area and become friends! We
are already sisters, so the connection is already there. One of the best things
I’ve done in Theta Phi Alpha is make so many wonderful alumnae connections and
gain so many wonderful friends. One of my best Theta Phi Alpha friends lives in
Nebraska and I live in New Jersey. Many others will tell you the same thing!</span></span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Being an alumna is such a wonderful part of Theta Phi Alpha
and I encourage each new alumna to connect with other alumnae and find your
favorite part about being an alumna. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I hope to see you at <a href="http://thetaphialpha.celect.org/national-convention-2018" target="_blank">National Convention in Pittsburgh</a>!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Yours in the Bonds of Sisterhood,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Lauren Svec Gallo<br />
National Vice President-Alumnae</span></div>
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Theta Phi Alphahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02196882551306536885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419265833164816125.post-39397388366334579002017-04-30T19:09:00.000-07:002017-04-30T19:09:10.803-07:00Celebrating 105 Years!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixzNBqCNKyE97gD9bJ-lQgxf84Em6s5SKswOr4MLkQTnfYycADbtPZWOuYB7vwgH4SvlKf-QIJNnio5AKBxtLfXu8Q6-zpCX5x1_0FvIcvo1ytnRTys0FwHVr2BJlMGBQUByHYlhKvLqs/s1600/105+years.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixzNBqCNKyE97gD9bJ-lQgxf84Em6s5SKswOr4MLkQTnfYycADbtPZWOuYB7vwgH4SvlKf-QIJNnio5AKBxtLfXu8Q6-zpCX5x1_0FvIcvo1ytnRTys0FwHVr2BJlMGBQUByHYlhKvLqs/s200/105+years.png" width="200" /></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Being a member of a sorority
is about connecting with others. Founders' Day is a time for us to
reflect on our founding and to honor the women who connected with each other at
the University of Michigan. They were looking for a way to support and
encourage each other and so Theta Phi Alpha was born. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Very early in our
history, our Founders envisioned a national organization. As you celebrate
Founders' Day today, whether you are able to attend a celebration or not; take
some time to remember why you joined Theta Phi Alpha. If you are
graduating soon and about to become an alumna, the best years of your life in
Theta Phi Alpha are just starting. There are many ways to stay connected! </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I was in Washington, D.C. recently for a conference and I was able to have
dinner with two sisters I didn't know very well. We were from three
different chapters, and they were much younger than me but the connection was
there. As you read the proclamation again, think about what you can do to
keep the connection with sisters going.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As I wrote in the proclamation,
"It is our responsibility to continue passing on the light from the
Founders'. Each one of us can make a difference individually and
collectively we can do even more."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><u>2017 Founders' Day Proclamation:</u></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As I thought about what I wanted to say in my first Founders’ Day Proclamation, I knew my focus would
be on reaching out and connecting with sisters. In the Akron Alumnae Association we used Founders’ Day as an
opportunity to encourage members to reach out to a sister they hadn’t seen for a while and to help us find “lost
lambs” i.e., sisters with whom we had lost contact. Since Founders’ Day is such an important event for Theta Phi
Alpha, women are often willing to attend even if they have not been involved for many years-especially if they are
personally invited. The laughter and joy in the room as sisters reconnect is amazing. Many comment that they don’t
know why they stayed away and vow to return the next year. And many of them do. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I decided to look at past proclamations to see what kinds of messages other National President’s shared,
especially in the early years. The Founders’ Day ritual was approved at the 1937 Convention and the first
proclamation I found was given in 1941. Prior to then, the National President often shared a message in<i> The
Compass</i> and I found one that stood out to me: </span></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">“Those of us who have been fortunate enough to have attended previous conventions of Theta Phi
Alpha know better than the rest of us ever can the value of such meetings. The contact with others
who are part of the same big plan and who have standards, ideas, and aims identical with our own
brings home to us the seriousness and dignity of the work we are endeavoring to accomplish.” </span></blockquote>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">These words were written nearly 100 years ago by Ellen Miller, National President in 1923, yet they still
ring true today. Our shared ritual creates a bond which unites us across chapters, generations, and time. Founders’
Day is a time to gather to honor the 10 women who set forth the standards and ideals we follow today. The values
our Founders chose to include in our creed; justice, wisdom, loyalty, faith, truth, and honor; are values we share
today. Ellen Miller became National President immediately after Mildred Connely, who wrote our creed in 1933, at
the request of the Convention body, to inspire and to encourage our members. From her message, it’s clear the light
had been passed on from the Founders. Ellen understood the importance of friendship with sisters. She understood
the value of these relationships. I am very grateful for the women who founded this organization and for all those
who have carried on that light since then. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Theta Phi Alpha has grown far beyond the initial circle of friends at the University of Michigan in 1912.
As we celebrate the 105th anniversary of our founding, I encourage each one of you to use this as an opportunity to
reconnect with a sister you haven’t seen for a while. If each alumna connected to just one sister, imagine how many
connections we could re-establish. Alumnae and collegians should connect with each other. It is our responsibility to
continue passing on that light. Each one of us can make a difference individually and collectively we can do even
more. </span></div>
Theta Phi Alphahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02196882551306536885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419265833164816125.post-30293229764255981082017-03-30T10:49:00.000-07:002017-03-30T11:46:16.950-07:00Celebrating our Founders<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlUJFqimN7PLA_z0sH4pXA8rh9b1kF6BvMm8dUDRj-Bnz064bbfhle5ZKTLc1V_MEI_pnfsLPYtmCEpcw2X_LiidPKjU9Pl-AiJ4jK8MnP3A-dKLGRuQGXg07tvrNo_hyV34IgXg7BkVE/s1600/79869_FallMailing_PC_PR2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlUJFqimN7PLA_z0sH4pXA8rh9b1kF6BvMm8dUDRj-Bnz064bbfhle5ZKTLc1V_MEI_pnfsLPYtmCEpcw2X_LiidPKjU9Pl-AiJ4jK8MnP3A-dKLGRuQGXg07tvrNo_hyV34IgXg7BkVE/s320/79869_FallMailing_PC_PR2-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Founders’ Day is one of the most special days of
Theta Phi Alpha’s year, as we connect with one another across the miles and
celebrate the ties that bind us through our shared sisterhood. As I wrote <a href="https://celectcdn.s3.amazonaws.com/files/0042/0385/Founders_Proclamation_2017.pdf" target="_blank">this year’s proclamation</a> I began by reading previous proclamations. I also began to reflect on the Founders’ Day
celebrations that I have shared with my sisters from my Sigma Chapter and the
Akron Alumnae Association since I was a new member over 35 years ago.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">In Akron, we use Founders’ Day as an opportunity
to encourage our alumnae sisters to reach out and contact a sister we haven’t
seen for awhile. The laughter and joy we experience as sisters reconnect is
amazing. Throughout the year we share the names of sisters celebrating
milestone anniversaries at the next Founders’ Day and encourage sisters to
reach out to someone they know and invite them.
For many years, our celebrations were only attended by Sigma sisters and
alumnae initiates. But recently, we have
enjoyed meeting new sisters from other chapters who live in our area and some
collegiate sisters from Delta Delta chapter in Ashland, which is about an hour
from Akron. Having these sisters join us
has only enriched our membership and adds so much to the lifelong bonds of
friendship we share. We choose a
toastmistress each year, usually from an anniversary class and she shares some
personal reflections of her collegiate days before reading the Founders’ Day
Proclamation. A few years ago, we had
two sisters share the duties and they had us all singing songs with them that
they remembered from their college days in the 1960’s! In
addition to sharing the time with one another, we also proudly support the
Theta Phi Alpha Foundation generously during the roll call included in the
Founders’ Day Ceremony.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">My wish is that sisters have the opportunity to
connect with their chapters or associations as joyfully as we do in Akron. I
asked a few sisters who participate around the country to weigh in with some of
their favorite parts of their Founders’ Day Celebrations that may spur ideas
for other groups to build a lasting tradition of reuniting and celebration. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> <i><b>Kristin
Henkenius, Alpha Pi,</b> is a member of the Board of Trustees and wearer of the
Guard of Honor. Her chapter holds a joint celebration annually with the
Northeastern Nebraska Alumnae Association, as they recognize the importance of
having as many collegians as possible participate. The alumnae hold an
Association meeting during the weekend. Given the location in Wayne, NE, the
chapter holds its White Rose Formal and the Founders’ Day Ceremony incorporated
into one event. They set an annual goal to raise at least $500, so that they
can partially sponsor a scholarship through Theta Phi Alpha Foundation. They
also award a Theta Phi Alpha scholarship through Wayne State College. The
alumnae appreciate the opportunity to see the collegians receive chapter awards
and the Senior Service Award.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> Kristin
has the unique position of also attending the Mu chapter and Lincoln Area
Alumnae Association celebrations as a Theta Phi Mom of her daughter (and
sister) Liz. Kristin said, “It was very special to experience this with my legacy
and my family, who was invited to the Founders’ Day at Mu.” Although Liz
recently graduated, Kristin and Liz are still attending.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i> </i> <b>Cathy
Billoni, Beta Nu</b> and member of the Board of Trustees, is especially looking
forward to this year’s Founders’ Day Weekend, as her chapter is celebrating its
25<sup>th</sup> anniversary of its installation at Florida Atlantic University.
The Beta Nu and South Florida Alumnae Association celebration have a
family-friendly weekend of events scheduled ranging from a bounce house and
carnival games, a picnic, social hours, and the grand finale Founders’ Day
Brunch. In honor of their 25<sup>th</sup> anniversary, a challenge to create a
sponsored scholarship through the Theta Phi Alpha Foundation has been issued by
Erika Lefkowitz, a founding sister. Cathy said, “I was the 61<sup>st</sup>
initiate of Beta Nu out of 722, which is amazing to me!! To even imagine we’ve made it this long and
come so far and achieved so much gives me great hope for the future, not only
for Beta Nu but for our Fraternity.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> Cathy
also participates with the Greater Tampa and Central Florida Area Alumnae
Associations.<i><o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> <b>Stephanie
Galendez, Alpha Beta,</b> is a wearer of the Guard of Honor and a legacy. Her mom,
Carolyn Bosworth Galendez, is a charter member of Alpha Beta. They have a long-standing tradition of participation
in the joint celebration held by Alpha Beta and the New Orleans Area Alumnae
Association. Given their location, they enjoy a nice brunch in the historic
French Quarter. “It was always great to see how my Mom interacted with the
collegians, not only asking them the basics like their major and where they are
from, but also what brought them to New Orleans?” She adds, “Founders’ Day is a
great way to reconnect and spend time with sisters.”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> Stephanie
also frequently joins 6 to 8 alumnae sisters and “crosses the lake (Pontchartrain)”
to attend the joint celebration of Beta Epsilon and the Northshore Louisiana Alumnae
Association. Both celebrations have
chapter awards and are followed by an alumnae association meeting. Additionally,
parents join the Alpha Beta celebrations.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i> </i> <b>Cristin
Miller Brown, Alpha Psi,</b> serves as National Assistant Treasurer. Living far
from her Dayton, Ohio chapter, Cristin joined the New York City Alumnae
Association and the Delta Beta Chapter Advisory Board to reconnect with sisters
in her new city. She looks forward to celebrating Founders’ Day this year with
the newly-formed Long Island Alumnae Association and bringing with her the
traditions and experiences from her connections along the way. Cristin said,
“What I’m most excited for as we host our first Founders’ Day celebration is
connecting the many alumnae in the region to our local chapters, Beta Alpha and
Delta Beta, as well as our new members from Farmingdale State College. I hope that the Long Island Alumnae Association
can bring together the many sisters in this region so that we can continue to
grow as an organization and have an impact both locally and nationally. I think that joining together and remembering
our Founders will be a great foundation as we begin this journey.”<i><o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i> <b>Kathy
Sullivan, Alpha Gamma,</b> Theta Phi Alpha Foundation Director, and Guard of Honor
wearer, hosts the Chicago Area Alumnae Association celebration brunch at a
local</i> restaurant <i>for
just the alumnae of the area, as no chapters have been in Illinois for over two
decades. “We have built a fun tradition to connect alumnae from over a dozen
chapters. We focus each year on the women celebrating a special anniversary,
such as their 25<sup>th</sup>, 50<sup>th</sup> or 75<sup>th</sup> anniversary
of initiation. I have had the great honor and privilege of recognizing two very
special Diamond Circle sisters: Jean Cusack, a Guard of Honor wearer from Beta
chapter and Geraldine Cady O’Laughlin of Alpha chapter. I’m so appreciative
each year when I see how generous my sisters are to Theta Phi Alpha Foundation
in our roll call."</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Through my connections, I learned that some
Founders’ Day celebrations hold silent auctions or raffles of gift baskets to raise funds
for Theta Phi Alpha Foundation. Others hold philanthropy drives, collecting
items ranging from swimsuits for Camp Friendship to toiletries for local
organizations under The House that Theta Phi Alpha Built banner. It’s great to
see our sisters generously contributing while supporting Theta Phi Alpha.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I strongly encourage you all to attend at least
one Founders’ Day celebration this year.
These are just a few examples of how chapters and associations hosting
events put their own special touches on the celebration. The main purpose shines through,
however. Founders’ Day is a day to honor
our Founders, celebrate our sisterhood, and remember our lifelong commitment to
Theta Phi Alpha with a <a href="https://thetaphialpha.celect.org/donate-to-the-foundation" target="_blank">donation to the Theta Phi Alpha Foundation</a> representing
each year of our membership. I’m looking
forward to seeing pictures of all the celebrations as we share on social media
using the hashtag </span><a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/%CE%B8%CF%86%CE%B1foundersday?source=feed_text&story_id=10154078261934174" style="background-color: white; color: #365899; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;"><span class="_5afx" style="direction: ltr; unicode-bidi: isolate;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span aria-label="hashtag" class="_58cl _5afz" style="color: #4267b2; unicode-bidi: isolate;">#</span><span class="_58cm">ΘΦΑFoundersDay</span></span></span></a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Theta Phi Alphahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02196882551306536885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419265833164816125.post-39941599343600447962017-02-28T09:58:00.000-08:002017-02-28T10:38:19.912-08:00Wear Your Badge and Spark a Conversation<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I was having a difficult time coming up with a topic for this month’s blog so I reached out to several sisters for help. As usual, a sister always has your back. In this case it was Kathy Sullivan who wrote part of this one and provided inspiration for several others! This blog will be published just a few days before International Badge Day which is celebrated by all National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) sisters on the first Monday of March. Kathy wrote that this event was started by Nora Ten Broeck, a past National President of Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority and a friend of hers. Here is an excerpt of what Kathy wrote for me:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>Nora wrote an article on her experience wearing her badge to work one day titled “</i><a href="https://www.alphasigmaalpha.org/a-simple-solution-wear-your-badge-today/" style="font-style: italic;">A Simple Solution - Wear Your Membership Badge Today</a><i>” that was featured in her sorority’s magazine, </i>The Phoenix<i>. This celebration of sisterhood has grown since 1997, with campuses and chapters around the globe now participating with women from all sororities celebrating their sisterhood. A few men now even join in with pride in their brotherhood. This year’s 20th anniversary is a true milestone in unity.</i></span></blockquote>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Personally, I enjoy wearing my badge and answering questions about it. A senior co-worker always boosted my spirits asking for me to explain about the badge, the guards, and even each dangle. Each year, I attend a city council meeting on NPC International Badge Day and speak during public comment about joining my sisters across the country and around the world in wearing our badges.</span></i></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">For the last several years I have worked at Curves on Mondays so I couldn’t wear badge attire. I chose to honor the spirit of the day by wearing my letters to work. This sparked many conversations with members as I discovered how many of us were Panhellenic sisters. This year I will proudly wear my Theta Phi Alpha badge on Monday, March 6 and I hope all of you will join me. Let’s celebrate with Panhellenic Pride. Theta Phi Alpha will join the other 25 NPC groups in promoting this event on social media and we want you to share as well! Post a picture of yourself wearing your badge, share a story of meeting another Panhellenic sister, or a conversation with someone where you were able to share some of the values we represent.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.npcwomen.org/college-panhellenics/for-everyone-collegiate-support/international-badge-day.aspx" target="_blank">NPC International Badge Day Resources</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">International Badge Day is also the start of National Ritual Celebration Week, sponsored by Phi Mu. You can find more information on this celebration at </span><a href="http://www.phimu.org/nationalritualweek" style="background-color: white; color: #009694;" target="_blank">PhiMu.org</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">.</span></span><br />
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Theta Phi Alphahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02196882551306536885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419265833164816125.post-16936795113051974582017-01-30T07:55:00.002-08:002017-01-30T13:22:22.022-08:00New Year, New Beginnings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">January is a time of new beginnings.</span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">Maybe this stems from my time as a teacher,
but after the holidays, I am ready to get back into a routine, eat better, get
back to the gym, etc.</span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">With the start of
the new year, I am ready to recommit to working hard at my job (National
President) and on my hobby (music).</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Grand Council kicked off the year
by spending the first weekend in January in Tampa, Florida. For our quarterly in-person meeting. We met on Thursday (a
day earlier than usual) and spent the afternoon working through our agenda on
basic business items. Thursday evening
was reserved for some sisterhood time together. We all know the value in time spent together. This is the essence of who we are. We designated one of the hotel rooms as the
“hang-out room”, changed into our comfy clothes, and ordered in pizza for
dinner. We exchanged Christmas gifts and
spent the evening sharing stories and songs, getting to know each other,
discussing Theta Phi Alpha, and generally solving the world’s problems. The seven women who are on Grand Council are
a team who are committed to working together to serve our Fraternity. This bonding time helped build our trust in
our ability to work effectively together.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">On Friday, thanks to Katie Owsianiecki,
National Vice President-Collegians, and her facilitation on StrengthsFinder for Grand Council, we learned
how all our strengths work together.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">For
the rest of the day we dove into the main purpose for our meeting:</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">our goals for the biennium.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We did a SWOT analysis (strengths,
weaknesses, opportunities and threats) of the Fraternity as it is right
now.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We talked about what keeps us awake
at night about Theta Phi Alpha.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">As we
looked at all of these things which we had written on big charts and posted all
over the room, we began to see a path to what we felt we most need to
accomplish this biennium.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The biggest area of need and
therefore our highest priority is developing and serving our members.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">As alumnae, our responsibilities are to be
loyal, life members of Theta Phi Alpha, adhering to our Creed in our daily
lives and offering our time, talents and treasure to the Fraternity as we are
able throughout the various stages of our lives.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We are here to support our collegiate
members, helping them develop into the future leaders of this Fraternity.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">To our collegiate members, your
responsibility is to maintain high scholastic and moral standards by adhering
to our Creed in your daily lives and to support your chapter sisters in working
together to create the best chapter experience possible.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This is what we have expected from
our members since 1912 and will continue to do so.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We have grown tremendously in the number of
chapters and associations and now need to make sure we are serving the needs of
those individuals by providing support and consistent communication.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Easier said than done, though.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><i style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Nothing
great is ever achieved without much enduring,</i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> remember?</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Our goals for the biennium center around
member development that will benefit our alumnae volunteers individually as well
as our chapters-both large and small, well-established, and younger.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This is a business, and we have to
spend our money wisely, in ways that will bring the greatest benefit (or return
on that investment) to the Fraternity.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">If we are supporting our chapters as well as serving the needs of our
individual members, we will grow.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Without that growth, we will die.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We, as Grand Council, are working to clarify roles and responsibilities
of National office staff and volunteers from Grand Council on down.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Our goal is to streamline and strengthen
procedures that enable our Fraternity to function well and serve our
members.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Part of this involves improving
the teamwork between staff and volunteers.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We are committed to providing and improving training and support for our
volunteers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We also need to strengthen the
infrastructure and prepare for the future financially.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We can’t stay in our current National office
space forever.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The physical building is
not very conducive to our needs, but we have made it work.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">However, we have been talking in our
strategic planning about finding a better office space for more than 10 years.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">That move will become a necessity rather than
a wish in the near future so we have started preparing financially.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">There is no guarantee that the next time we
sign a lease it will be offered without an increase in cost.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The issue is not </span><i style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">if </i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">the cost will increase but </span><i style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">when</i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We have to run the Fraternity like
a business, but remember at the heart of it all we are in the business of
relationships.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Nurturing those
relationships is the number one priority.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Spending time with my sisters this past weekend at Officer Leadership Training was a refreshing
break from the “business” side of the Fraternity.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Listening to our collegiate women work
together to define leadership (based on our values) was inspiring. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">These young women </span><i style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">get it</i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Their responses were
well thought out and they gave several real life examples of how they have
lived our values.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Working with my fellow
“facilisisters” and Caitlin Parker, our Director of Collegiate Services (who is
a fellow Panhellenic sister) was also inspiring.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">These women </span><i style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">get it</i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> as well.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The promises
we all make to serve the Fraternity are alive and well.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 107%;">Do we have improvements to
make? Without a doubt! </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 107%;">Is Grand Council committed to taking steps
immediately to address these issues? Absolutely! </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 107%;">What can you do to
help? If you are a collegian, serve your
chapter to the best of your ability. If
you are an alumna and you serve as a National Officer or a volunteer, work in
your position to the best of your ability. If you aren’t sure what you should be doing contact the Grand Council
member you report to. If you cannot
fulfill your obligation, please let Grand Council know so we can work together
to find the best person or solution. If
you would like to volunteer, fill out the interest form on the website at, </span><a href="http://thetaphialpha.celect.org/national-volunteer-form"><span style="line-height: 107%;">http://thetaphialpha.celect.org/national-volunteer-form</span></a></span><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> so we can have a pool of available
sisters as positions open. If you are
not able to or interested in serving nationally, stay connected locally or
virtually. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Finally, remember another
quote from St. Catherine of Siena, “Be who God meant you to be and you will
set the world on fire.” Our sisterhood
and support for each other is alive and well. I am truly proud to be a Theta Phi Alpha and I’m excited for our future.</span></span></div>
Theta Phi Alphahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02196882551306536885noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419265833164816125.post-21639803384535627002016-12-30T09:44:00.000-08:002016-12-30T20:30:33.516-08:002016 Reflections<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">As 2016 draws to a close and we begin a new year, many
people make resolutions. Whether you
usually make resolutions or not, the end of a year is a good time to reflect on
that year. What did you learn? What did you do well? What would you like to
do better in the future? Are you
particularly thankful for something? </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">For
me, the last half of 2016 was full of changes. In July I was elected National President, a huge responsibility and
honor that I take very seriously. Two
weeks later my father passed away somewhat unexpectedly and three weeks after
that I closed out a business I had owned for five years. It was more than a business to me,
though. I had been a member of this Curves
for nine years when I purchased the franchise and I then owned it for five. Many of the 200 plus members, as well as the
staff, had become my friends over the years. We shared pictures of our families and our pets, celebrated birthdays,
and attended calling hours. When it
closed, I felt very much the same as when Sigma chapter closed. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAB_b-IaSlr145bAABiqNi9kB7PZPdEjlpXeQIjFsf9mWQ7HyAogFiFEB0eN_MEMgqbgYY1U5SsObPy5PE6xyLk88d-n8WplBYLwOizQhnFl0omMIsPqLXBPyz9_7TrR0G2O-zPQwHzCA/s1600/Curves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAB_b-IaSlr145bAABiqNi9kB7PZPdEjlpXeQIjFsf9mWQ7HyAogFiFEB0eN_MEMgqbgYY1U5SsObPy5PE6xyLk88d-n8WplBYLwOizQhnFl0omMIsPqLXBPyz9_7TrR0G2O-zPQwHzCA/s320/Curves.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I knew months in advance that the business was going
to close so I focused on keeping members informed, creating ways for them to
stay connected, facilitating their transfer to another exercise facility and
holding a celebration of the time we had together. I fulfilled my obligations to Curves, to the
landlord, and to my members. Many of them
thanked me for closing in such a way. I
have run into many of my members around town in the last few months and we
always greet each other with a hug and spend a few minutes chatting and
catching up. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Change is inevitable, the question is how do we deal
with it? Many of my members stayed with
Curves right up until the end even though they could have quit and gone
elsewhere. They felt a connection with
the people there and wanted to keep their membership until the end. They fulfilled their obligation to the club
as well. I could not have fulfilled my
obligations financially without their continued support. That
relationship worked both ways.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">It is the same with Theta Phi Alpha. Without members, we would cease to
exist. We rely on our collegiate women
to recruit excellent new members, to educate them in our traditions and values
and to instill in them a lifelong commitment to Theta Phi Alpha. We rely on our alumnae volunteers to support
these chapters, to manage local alumnae associations and to support our
organization nationally as well. We rely
on each one of our members to fulfill her obligations, to take seriously the
promises we all make at initiation. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">One of the most powerful moments we share is found at
the end of our Founders’ Day ceremony where we join in a circle and sing <i>White
Rose</i>. Whether it’s a small gathering of
a few sisters or the whole Convention body at the end of Fraternity Night
Banquet, that event always brings me to tears. I’m usually just mouthing the words to the song because I’m trying not
to cry. Don’t judge 😊. Looking around
the room at our circle of sisterhood never ceases to amaze me. </span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">So, as you reflect on the end of 2016 and think ahead
to 2017, ask yourself: How can I serve Theta Phi Alpha? Am I fulfilling my responsibilities as a
member and as a volunteer to the best of my abilities? Can I make it a point to reach out and
connect with a sister this year? Remember that you were chosen for membership in Theta Phi Alpha for a
reason. Your sisters saw something in
you. I know I am thankful for each and
every one of you and look forward to serving you to the best of my abilities in
the coming year.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Theta Phi Alphahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02196882551306536885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419265833164816125.post-86108859077779626142016-12-16T14:10:00.000-08:002016-12-15T23:13:22.631-08:00Theta Phi Alpha Holiday Greetings 2016<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="243" id="vp18A7cL" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/embed.animoto.com/play.html?w=swf/production/vp1&e=1481872340&f=8A7cLU1lM6O0C6oTbrHN0Q&d=0&m=p&r=360p+480p+720p&volume=100&start_res=360p&i=m&asset_domain=s3-p.animoto.com&animoto_domain=animoto.com&options=" title="Video Player" width="432"></iframe></div>
Theta Phi Alphahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02196882551306536885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419265833164816125.post-50487399482554589832016-11-30T06:16:00.001-08:002016-12-20T13:03:57.299-08:00Nurturing our Sisterhood into the Future<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><u5:p></u5:p><br /></span>
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIFgOf76o4-s7hrU7PQ0vprbHBQFbN67c4An4h3EypiNjFsp2WYVddkCN0yEaEWENLZf3NX6VYsicDmz_xEfn1Hu9jBrEV68AtE67KvS2_Gn-ywkaFEpxNwXBOOQLvGsX7qabrz1jaBwA/s1600/Awards_pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIFgOf76o4-s7hrU7PQ0vprbHBQFbN67c4An4h3EypiNjFsp2WYVddkCN0yEaEWENLZf3NX6VYsicDmz_xEfn1Hu9jBrEV68AtE67KvS2_Gn-ywkaFEpxNwXBOOQLvGsX7qabrz1jaBwA/s200/Awards_pic.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;">I’m writing this as we have just
elected a new President of the United States of America. There are very
polarized feelings of great fear and great hope across the country as this
was a very close election. Our Founders in 1912 were not afforded the rights
women have today, including the right to vote. And while many are concerned
today about women’s rights given the recent turn of events of the election, we
as a sorority should continue to stand for the rights of women by honoring our
past sisters, supporting the present collegians and alumnae, and nurturing the
future of our organization.<u5:p></u5:p></span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The world we live in today is vastly different from
the world our Founders’ experienced in 1912. I don’t think they could have imagined the technological advances we
have made or the issues we are facing as a society. Yet the values they felt were important
enough to base their fledgling organization on, are still important and relevant
to us today. Justice, friendship, and
truth still resonate with our members, both new collegians and more seasoned
alumnae. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">We’ve come a long way from our humble beginnings at
the University of Michigan. Much of our
growth has occurred quite recently in our history. That success over the years is due, in part,
to the efforts of women who remained involved for many years. Part is due to women who volunteer for the
first time right out of college or perhaps after a gap of 10 or even 20 years
with no involvement. Past Grand Councils
have focused on growing our chapter base, developing a support system for those
chapters, increasing alumnae involvement, professionalizing our National Office
staff and generally bringing us up to speed with the rest of the NPC community. This is the “sandbox” we play in, if you
will. We must continue to strive to be
competitive with other NPC groups or we will cease to exist. In many ways a national sorority is like a
business. We are competing for the women
on our collegiate campuses, mainly with other NPC groups but also with other
organizations in general. If we don’t
have something of value to offer these women, they will choose to spend their
time elsewhere. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">I believe we do have something of value to offer women
of all ages and I know you all believe that too or you wouldn’t read this blog,
volunteer your time for Theta Phi Alpha, donate to the Foundation or keep in
touch with other sisters. It’s been said
that managing your problems can only make you good, whereas building your
opportunities is the only way to become great. Yes, we have some problems—every organization does. But, we want to focus on building our
opportunities. Because of the efforts of
our faithful members throughout the years, Theta Phi Alpha is in a very good
place with an exciting future. Grand
Council will be meeting for an extended time in January to celebrate past
accomplishments and determine how to capitalize on our opportunities to
strategically plan for the best interests of the Fraternity. We are all excited and looking forward to
this time together to dream and plan for the future that we have already begun
preparing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 107%;">We are all challenged to live our creed in our daily
lives and committing to meaningful opportunities that align with our values. I invite you in the comments below to
celebrate your chapter, your association, or a sister for creating a valuable
Theta Phi Alpha experience for which you are grateful. We should share our successes and pat
ourselves on the back. <o:p></o:p></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">In
the midst of so much negativity in the world, let’s celebrate our values, </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">support
our network of sisters, and share the positive connections we bring to the
world!</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><u5:p></u5:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Yitbos,</span></div>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Susan Lee<br />
National President</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Theta Phi Alphahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02196882551306536885noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419265833164816125.post-80560179933883907262016-10-20T21:41:00.001-07:002016-10-20T21:52:27.358-07:00A Moment from the Executive Director<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_U1PQRWO54SsFKmBdlIIr8yRzVuZSIxHZdX7dNxdX2LZTRLgxZrdGZpg-OnbyPAEj1UH8kAdAwm0t6SiIeAUi6uqBot7TnCPapaHYnHO-y8KH9-3StXoMV8v1657F-B0BfpfoDW-elYk/s1600/Staff_Shane.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_U1PQRWO54SsFKmBdlIIr8yRzVuZSIxHZdX7dNxdX2LZTRLgxZrdGZpg-OnbyPAEj1UH8kAdAwm0t6SiIeAUi6uqBot7TnCPapaHYnHO-y8KH9-3StXoMV8v1657F-B0BfpfoDW-elYk/s200/Staff_Shane.jpg" width="140" /></span></a><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>This month's guest blogger is Shane McGoey, Ph.D., Executive Director of Theta Phi Alpha. This article was originally published in the Fall 2016 issue of </i>The Compass<i>.</i></span><br />
<br />
For those who attended this summer's National Convention, you know there was a wealth of information shared to help better Theta Phi Alpha nationally, as well as improve chapter operations. One of the many presentations Convention attendees participated in was regarding a new Member Development Program, presented by Karyn Nishimura Sneath.<br />
<br />
In Karyn's presentation, she presented a relational leadership model authored by Drs. Komives, Lucas, and McMahon (Exploring Leadership for College Students Who Want to Make a Difference, Jossey-Bass, 1998), all of whom are graduate professors who teach and conduct research on issues pertaining to student affairs and leadership. The model utilizes an acronym, I-PEEP, which stands for Inclusiveness, Purposeful, Ethical, Empowering, and Process. As leaders on your campus and in your chapters, you may have heard your Fraternity/Sorority Advisor or other administrators talk about this model.<br />
<br />
As I listened to Karyn's presentation, I began to wonder if any of our chapters were aware of this model, how we could ensure that each felt comfortable with the model, and what each delegate thought of utilizing the model in the new Member Development Program. Below, I pose some rhetorical questions for you to consider. Use the questions to see where you are utilizing the relational model.<br />
<br />
<b>Inclusiveness. </b>As leaders on your campuses and in your chapters, it falls upon each of you to ensure that the Theta Phi Alpha experience is inclusive. This helps your chapter by using the talents and skills of each individual to benefit the greater good – in this case, your chapter. This includes both internal and external stakeholders and utilizing each to help your chapter grow and develop.<br />
<br />
Think about how you presently achieve this in your chapter. Can you think of ways to improve? How often does the chapter have frank discussions about this? In what ways can you see the chapter being more inclusive?<br />
<br />
<b>Purposeful. </b>We all think that we are purposeful when we are able to "check something off" our to-do list. In this particular area, however, being purposeful means something more. It's up to each of you to think about whether your goals are strategically aligned in a way that fosters improvement in your chapter in incremental, sustainable steps. Often times, our goals may seem to be at odds with other goals. Taking the time to critically examine things will help bring goals in alignment with each other.<br />
<br />
In your chapter or executive board meetings, do you take time to think how one decision could impact future decisions? Do you consider things pertaining to your chapter in the moment as things occur or do you take time for thoughtful consideration about how decisions will benefit the chapter membership in the future? Maybe even after you have graduated?<br />
<br />
Ethical. Sometimes individuals make mistakes. As an organization, Theta Phi Alpha espouses certain values that each member is to uphold. Ensuring that members are ethical in their behavior, understanding the difference between right and wrong, and appreciating the notion of being accountable for a greater good is what each chapter is expected to do when educating its members.<br />
<br />
Members who behave badly or do something that is antithetical to the values of Theta Phi Alpha should be educated and mentored by members through modeling good behavior and communication that does not leave room for any doubt pertaining to what is expected of each member. Only in severe cases should it be necessary to suspend or remove a member.<br />
<br />
In what ways does your chapter hold members accountable? How do you ensure that a member, who may not be living up to the values, is able to change their behavior to align with the membership's expectations?<br />
<br />
<b>Empowering. </b>People learn by doing. Empowering others is one of the values that all fraternal organizations strongly believe. Theta Phi Alpha is no different. Empowerment should be a keystone of your chapter's membership development program. Empowering others leads to maturity, increased responsibility, and improved sustainability of your chapter. <br />
<br />
How do you empower each member to become involved to offer their talent and skills for the greater good of Theta Phi Alpha on your campus? Nationally?<br />
<br />
<b>Process. </b>Leadership is a process. It is a journey that continues over time, throughout your life. Establishing processes ensures the legacy of your chapter. It facilitates the understanding of expectations of membership and sets clear what you believe to be right and wrong.<br />
<br />
Do you revisit your processes regularly to see if they continue to work properly or do you use the excuse, “We've always done it this way. . .?” Once you have achieved success, do you relax and rest on your laurels or do you take time to recognize your achievement and then look at what ways you can still improve?<br />
<br />
I pose the above questions to facilitate a discussion occurring in each chapter. I hope you take the time this year to have discussions and look at your membership development program differently as you educate your members. The new member education program will be a great resource for you and your chapter when it is completely developed. But with all things, it will need to be constantly improved upon to remain relevant to future members. Your input will help us achieve that!<br />
<br />
Best,<br />
<br />
Shane Theta Phi Alphahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02196882551306536885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419265833164816125.post-55298433567865828092016-09-26T21:46:00.000-07:002016-11-07T19:09:37.797-08:00Changing Times, Changing Terminology: From ‘Colony’ to ‘Emerging Chapter’<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXnVnwg3zmP2EonwjsgvC-tK43XCrrmRy3bjibLTJpuuOWWvEPfNxX_csBxB4q9bXlyuTo_gze3CY1RuDBcdBOuzh8PWGCAIJg9R3wHFB8IYTYCDZRob4NMz-jVwnjhEo1cmGF0mLxJpI/s1600/EmergingChapter.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXnVnwg3zmP2EonwjsgvC-tK43XCrrmRy3bjibLTJpuuOWWvEPfNxX_csBxB4q9bXlyuTo_gze3CY1RuDBcdBOuzh8PWGCAIJg9R3wHFB8IYTYCDZRob4NMz-jVwnjhEo1cmGF0mLxJpI/s200/EmergingChapter.png" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">It’s out with the old (i.e., “colony”) and in with the new
(i.e., “emerging chapter”) for Theta Phi Alpha and our extension efforts! So be sure to update your Theta Phi Alpha vocabulary
as follows:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Colonization Weekend </span>---><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Opening Weekend</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Colony/Colonies <span style="font-family: "wingdings"; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">---></span> Emerging Chapter/s<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Colony Program <span style="font-family: "wingdings";">---></span> Emerging Chapter
Program<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Colony Member <span style="font-family: "wingdings";">---></span> New Member <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The
reason for this change was twofold:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The revised terminology more accurately reflects the process
through which a fully installed Theta Phi Alpha chapter is established. What was formerly the “colony program” has
been restructured to better prepare individual new members and the collective
group for chapter operations, with an increased programmatic emphasis on new
member education, Theta Phi Alpha Ritual, and committee-structured chapter
operations training. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Similarly, chapter installation will now mark the start of an
extended period of supported educational programming to better transition and
orient our newest chapters to the operations, policies, and programs of Theta
Phi Alpha. Thus the women that join
Theta Phi Alpha as part of our extension efforts are, in essence, part of an
“emerging chapter” working toward independent chapter functioning within 3-5
years after Theta Phi Alpha is established on a campus. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In many contexts, the term “<a href="http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/colony">colony</a>” may seem harmless
(e.g., a colony of ants; or “a group of individuals or things with common
characteristics or interests situated in close association,” as in one of many
definitions provided by Merriam-Webster). Nonetheless, we recognize that for many, the terms “colony” and “<a href="http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/colonize">colonization</a>” <a href="http://fraternalthoughts.blogspot.com/2014/10/the-problem-with-colonization.html">cannot
be separated from the colonization</a> and subjugation of <a href="http://www.un.org/esa/socdev/unpfii/documents/5session_factsheet1.pdf">indigenous
peoples</a>. That understanding informed
the change in terminology as well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">As we continue to grow Theta Phi Alpha throughout the
nation, we hope you appreciate the changes – both in the terminology and
programmatic content – to our Emerging Chapter Program!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Want to continue the conversation? <a href="http://www.thetaphialpha.org/directory" target="_blank">Contact your Grand Council</a> – we’d love to
hear from you!</span><o:p></o:p><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Note: Official adoption of this new terminology will take place after the February 2017 mail vote.</span></i></div>
Theta Phi Alphahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02196882551306536885noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419265833164816125.post-56772527767198907042016-08-30T06:46:00.000-07:002016-08-30T09:53:41.280-07:00Happy 104th birthday, Theta Phi Alpha!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuAfA6mcfyw4dvnHPozDnuvSTYT7iCK0s_vm9rZdcFSIAaUJyeeAWEBFATVUUGGJlKNEepj6lUy-c0iyQN1xsWdzPfbBkuWR9KubSPdXl1i9JnWt0JoG0ZflKz5Ch6ZLqWxpWY9stRCpg/s1600/sizedfd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuAfA6mcfyw4dvnHPozDnuvSTYT7iCK0s_vm9rZdcFSIAaUJyeeAWEBFATVUUGGJlKNEepj6lUy-c0iyQN1xsWdzPfbBkuWR9KubSPdXl1i9JnWt0JoG0ZflKz5Ch6ZLqWxpWY9stRCpg/s400/sizedfd.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Theta Phi Alpha was founded on this very day 104 years ago by
10 remarkable women at the University of Michigan. Our Founders were certainly
progressive, modern women. Very few women attended college in 1912. Female students weren’t even allowed to enter the student union! In the United States, women weren’t allowed
to vote or to own property. Yet these 10 women not only attended college,
graduated and had careers but also felt it was very important to create an
organization where they could meet and support each other. Our Founders saw the
value of relationships with other women not only during the collegiate years,
but for life. They could have just founded a club for college women, but they
didn’t. The college years are simply a
foundation for a lifetime as an alumna. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think our Founders would be very proud of us today and how
we have grown and spread across the country, opening our membership to all
women yet remaining true to our core values. I’m sure they never dreamed what
the world would be like 104 years later with all the technology we have
available. I do think they would be shocked and dismayed at the social and
political climate of the country; yet I also think they would be impressed by
our members today. Theta Phi Alpha sisters in 2016 are still dedicated to
advancing educational, social and philanthropic interests, encouraging
spiritual development and adherence to the highest moral standards and
promoting lifelong bonds of friendship just as they were in 1912. The world has
changed dramatically, but these ideals are timeless.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Change is inevitable, but with it comes opportunity. Technology
makes it possible for us to connect with sisters around the world instantly. It
also helps us provide support and eventually training for our alumnae
volunteers and our collegiate members through our website. Multiple avenues of
communication are available to us now. We don’t have to wait days or weeks for
a letter to arrive. This is an exciting time for Theta Phi Alpha, we are
growing and improving in so many ways. Keep watching for updates through email and
check the website for news. Let the compass be our guide as we stay true to the
values in our ritual written over 100 years ago. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yours in the bonds of sisterhood,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Susan Lee<br />
National President</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Theta Phi Alphahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02196882551306536885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419265833164816125.post-11329361474079128812016-08-14T10:28:00.000-07:002016-08-16T14:44:00.743-07:00Susan Lee Shares her First Blog Post as National President<div class="MsoNormal">
Coming home from Convention, sisters are filled with
excitement and renewed commitment to the Fraternity. You can see it all over
social media with lots of posts, interactions and new friend requests. Sisters
are filling out the volunteer interest form on the website and Grand Council
members are busy learning their new roles, filling their teams with returning
and new volunteers and getting ready for our first meeting at the end of
August. Collegians are winding down summer jobs, heading back to campus and
preparing for fall recruitment. September is a time of new beginnings. It’s a
good time to get involved. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Many sisters have asked me to publish my campaign speech I
gave at Convention when I ran for National President. As I began preparing for
this new role in transition calls with Laura Foley and Shane McGoey, as well as
many other sisters back in January, I thought about our biggest needs as a
Fraternity. As the months wore on and Convention got closer, I began to focus
on three key areas. Here is my speech:</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>My name is Susan Lee and I was initiated into Sigma Chapter
in 1981. Theta Phi Alpha has made me who I am today and this is why I am
running for National President.</i><o:p><i> </i></o:p></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>As a Fraternity we have come a long way from what our 10
Founders started over 100 years ago. As president, I intend to continue to
foster that growth while focusing on three key areas: Connections,
Communication and Clarity.</i><o:p><i> </i></o:p> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Connections are our number one priority. We are a
member-based, volunteer organization, and connections with sisters is why we
are all here. Sisterhood is our most important asset. Without it, we are
nothing.</i><o:p><i> </i></o:p> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Our communication to members needs to be clear, correct and
consistent. Using a variety of methods from social media, to the good old
fashioned phone call or letter will reach sisters of all ages. Our new website
will be very helpful in keeping many sisters informed.</i> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Clarity—by this I mean clarity of purpose and direction as
well as clarity of roles, responsibilities and duties for volunteers and National
Office staff. The Grand Council has always set the direction of the Fraternity
and this will continue to be our role. As we transition to having more staff
available to take on the day-to-day tasks of managing a continuously growing
organization, defining and clarifying those roles is more important than ever. This
growth is necessary and beneficial for Theta Phi Alpha - we must continue to
move forward.</i> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>We are a diverse group of women with a large variety of life
experiences and backgrounds. We won’t always agree with each other, but by
treating each other with respect and love there is no end to what we can
accomplish. I can’t promise that I know everything I need to know or that I
have all the answers. I’m not afraid to ask questions or learn new things. The
most important asset I have is all of you, my sisters. I can’t do this alone-my
success is your success, our success. I can promise that I will do my best,
lead where it may, cost what it may.</i></blockquote>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The speeches were given in reverse order, so I was last. As
I listened to all the other candidates giving their speeches, I was pleased to
see that we were all thinking along the same lines and have the same goals for
this biennium. One of the most common themes was more communication and more
transparency. We will continue to work on this area and you can help us with
that. Go to the website and make sure your contact info is correct. Read these
blogs and like our Theta Phi Alpha social media pages. Read your email, visit
the website and look for any new information. Participate in surveys and stay
connected with other sisters. Each of those actions will keep you connected and
informed. If you want to know something, reach out to a sister or to National
Office. Member engagement is essential to our success and I’m looking forward
to connecting with you soon!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Theta Phi Alphahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02196882551306536885noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419265833164816125.post-33504373497087658332016-07-10T07:01:00.002-07:002016-07-10T07:01:54.328-07:00July News & Notes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLZMK9D_2q6jJz6Iny_p0Lza7xcZFvrpr_TdgpXRaXuP4f_vNvCrD3I8CvyGcCC1dgGynBpKzCuKVXIClVIja3iuuHYFdOh8YH9c9OHGYqAV7YnZNeZmO5l9kE0aUPTUl7WPYBVasXcjs/s1600/blog_ritual.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLZMK9D_2q6jJz6Iny_p0Lza7xcZFvrpr_TdgpXRaXuP4f_vNvCrD3I8CvyGcCC1dgGynBpKzCuKVXIClVIja3iuuHYFdOh8YH9c9OHGYqAV7YnZNeZmO5l9kE0aUPTUl7WPYBVasXcjs/s200/blog_ritual.jpg" width="196" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As I reflect over the biennium and I prepare for the State
of the Fraternity, I am reminded of all the changes that have occurred. Changes can be difficult, but they can also
be good. When change occurs it means
something familiar is exchanged for something new and unfamiliar. But not moving forward is sometimes just not
an option. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have had some changes in my life this biennium as
well. Saying goodbye forever to my
mother was hard, but it is the circle of life and we must go on. My daughter getting married means a change
too. The little girl has grown up. Yes, I will always be her mother, but it will
be different. We have feelings of sadness and joy as we add a
new member to our family. Change had to
happen to make room for this new addition.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I find it interesting and comforting that with all these
changes there is something constant. It is Ritual. The ritual of a memorial service, the ritual
of a wedding. Some rituals are few and
far between, some are daily, but these rituals are there to help us weather
change. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This week Theta Phis will be attending the ritual of
Convention in St. Louis, Missouri. This ritual
occurs every two years and concludes with the ritual of Installation of the new
leadership. I hope the ritual does its magic once again, bringing comfort to the change that a new biennium brings.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It has been an honor to serve my sisters these last eight
years. I am a better person for serving. My sisters and my #FriendsAcrossBadges
have taught me so much. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thank you, I could not have done it without you by my side.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">#ThetaPhiConv16</span></span></div>
Theta Phi Alphahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02196882551306536885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419265833164816125.post-47792249710976593332016-06-01T12:14:00.000-07:002016-06-08T04:17:40.770-07:00Transgender Membership, Title IX, and Single-Sex Organizations<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia5LAgDRW7ZTtZhSWvD4LExL56sfYP2Ar_DzvEn8Qxb3_pFSDIJJ_RvPOi-Zns94K3pwep_lS1NKxUn-nqkSZ5YylUGqDhboDfoMpwwmqvsozEt9VI5MSCBCyw4BEXRtUbZFu38glbvc0/s1600/NikkiConroy.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia5LAgDRW7ZTtZhSWvD4LExL56sfYP2Ar_DzvEn8Qxb3_pFSDIJJ_RvPOi-Zns94K3pwep_lS1NKxUn-nqkSZ5YylUGqDhboDfoMpwwmqvsozEt9VI5MSCBCyw4BEXRtUbZFu38glbvc0/s1600/NikkiConroy.png" /></span></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">This month's guest blogger is Nikki Conroy, National Vice
President-Extension.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<a href="http://www.apa.org/topics/lgbt/transgender.aspx" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Transgender
issues</a>, Title IX, and single-sex organizations are generating significant
national, state, and campus-wide conversations, and they all impact us as
sorority women. <span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Here’s
an introductory snapshot to these issues for members that want to learn more,
with key terms hyperlinked to additional educational resources, as well as our
position on honoring the lifelong membership of all Theta Phi Alphas.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<b>What is Title IX?</b><br />
In short,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/docs/tix_dis.html">Title IX</a><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>was
passed in 1972 and prohibits discrimination based on sex in education programs
or activities that receive Federal financial assistance, and now prohibits
discrimination based on<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="https://www.apa.org/pi/lgbt/resources/sexuality-definitions.pdf">gender
identity and/or gender expression</a>. Some social groups, including
fraternities and sororities, are exempt from this legislation with regard to<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>membership
practices, and Title IX is primarily applicable to the regulation of
educational institutions.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<b>Why should we care about Title IX?</b><br />
Our members are<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://knowyourix.org/title-ix/title-ix-the-basics/">protected from
discrimination</a><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>based
on their sex, gender identity, and gender expression under Title IX, including
sexual harassment and sexual violence, and timely action by the institution
should rights be violated. (To learn more about your rights and violence
prevention resources, visit our<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://thetaphialpha.celect.org/educational-resources">Educational
Resource page</a>.)The rights of<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://www.hrc.org/resources/sexual-orientation-and-gender-identity-terminology-and-definitions">transgender</a><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>students
are also protected under Title IX, and the concept of transgender membership
has muddied the waters for what the inclusion of transgender members means for
social fraternities’ and sororities’ to remain single-sex organizations.
Some feared that inclusion would jeopardize the single-sex status, while others
(e.g.,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://fraternallaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Fraternal-Law-Newsletter-September-2014.pdf">Delta
Gamma</a>), explicitly invited transgender women to membership.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<b>What<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>does<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>transgender
membership mean for single-sex organizations?</b><br />
Fraternal Law Partners say the
decision to admit transgender members is at the discretion of individual
organizations, although they acknowledge that constitutionally, discrimination
against transgender members may cause trouble. They’ve<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://fraternallaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Fraternal-Law-Newsletter-November-2013.pdf">offered
guidelines</a><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>on
clarifying policies and<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://fraternallaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Fraternal-Law-Newsletter-November-2014.pdf">identified
the risks</a><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>of
trans inclusion and exclusion and the risks of doing nothing. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<b>What does this mean for us?</b><br />
The federal government recently<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://fraternallaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Frat-Law-142-May-2016.pdf">confirmed</a><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>that
the admission of transgender students to membership does<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>not<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>jeopardize
the single-sex status of social organizations exempt from Title IX.
Nonetheless, the decision to do so (or not) remains at the discretion of
individual organizations.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
In line with suggestions from<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://fraternallaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Fraternal-Law-Newsletter-November-2013.pdf">Fraternal
Law Partners</a>, Theta Phi Alpha reaffirms that all initiated women,
collegians and alumnae, are afforded lifelong membership regardless of transitions
in gender identity thereafter. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
As conversations about transgender membership continue, let us remember that
promoting inclusion is not entirely new territory for Theta Phi Alpha.
What was once an organization for Catholic women is now an organization open to
all women. Our current membership includes women with a broad range of<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="https://www.apa.org/pi/lgbt/resources/sexuality-definitions.pdf">gender
expression</a><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>as
well as a broad range of<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="https://internationalspectrum.umich.edu/life/definitions">sexual
orientations</a>. We are already challenging the idea that there is only
one way to be a “woman”<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null"></a><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>in a
women’s organization.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
Theta Phi Alpha should be proud of its longstanding history of<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://www.thetaphialpha.org/creed"><i>justice to each fellow man</i></a><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>and
providing opportunities for a diverse group of women to come together over a
shared commitment to advancing women’s personal, academic, social, and
professional development. To continue dialogue on how to best meet the
needs of women today while preserving the values inherent to Theta Phi Alpha,
we encourage you to reach out to the Grand Council, write to National Office,
or simply engage in casual conversation with members in your area.</div>
Theta Phi Alphahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02196882551306536885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419265833164816125.post-30159341822201426932016-04-28T10:36:00.001-07:002016-04-28T11:29:41.475-07:00April News & Notes<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2WDs0onh3rxaKfi-TS6nBSguoUy6mqrVRZ2wqP_DrMfv1MNG8pBDAuvnVyG71u4Ssv__-sMO4Z_shl4aBII5CJshxuTznqK5x3JdjjJr8JnXaUXtr72RMQXKXMbH8u1jgABiWd6SxGX0/s1600/postcard_cover_lowres.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="Theta Phi Alpha Founders" border="0" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2WDs0onh3rxaKfi-TS6nBSguoUy6mqrVRZ2wqP_DrMfv1MNG8pBDAuvnVyG71u4Ssv__-sMO4Z_shl4aBII5CJshxuTznqK5x3JdjjJr8JnXaUXtr72RMQXKXMbH8u1jgABiWd6SxGX0/s400/postcard_cover_lowres.jpg" title="" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">It is Spring time and the weather is changing. For many of us it is a welcome change. Fresh grass, flowers popping up and longer
days. It is also a time for change as
our New Members are initiated and as our Alumnae Associations welcome new
graduates.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Change is exciting but it can also be uncomfortable. Looking forward to new adventures and
opportunities is exhilarating, but can be overwhelming at times, as well. It is always good to think about those things
that remain constant and provide the comfort of familiarity to keep us grounded
as we face change. This can be applied
to Theta Phi Alpha as well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">There have been many changes, most noticeably in our
National Office, over the biennium. But
many things have remained constant. We
are still and will <i>always</i> be a member
organization. We do not exist if not for
our membership. Only members can recruit
members. Theta Phi Alpha stresses values-based
recruitment and our values have been constants for over 100 years. These values are what ground us and provide
the True North for which our compass points.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">We will always need and depend on our loyal alumnae to
provide the volunteer efforts that connect our membership. For we will need the older and wiser sisters
to help our newer members learn the traditions and Rituals of our Fraternity. Local, regional and national volunteers are
always needed and their efforts are forever appreciated. We are each a single rose which when joined
together creates a bouquet that is stronger and more beautiful.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Our Ritual has not changed. It remains a time for us as
members to stop and reflect on the true meaning of our values. There is comfort in Rituals, just as we find
comfort in the rituals of our daily lives. Sometimes as an alumna I find myself craving the Ritual of Initiation. To attend initiation as an alumna always
brings me back to those years in college and the friendships that live on.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">There have been changes in our
leadership with the recent resignation of two Grand Council members. Although it is difficult to lose members of our leadership team, the remaining
members, volunteers and staff are working to cover their responsibilities and
fill these positions. There will also be more changes as we welcome a new Grand
Council this summer. We are working hard to make sure our new set of
leaders are prepared and ready to take on the challenges that our future holds.
I look forward to working with them as they are excited for the future and
ready to accept the challenges ahead.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">As we celebrate Founders’ Day this weekend, I think about
the 10 women that were excited to create something new. I’m sure they were a bit uncomfortable as
they forged those changes, but they knew what our Patroness knew, that ‘Nothing
great is ever achieved without much enduring’!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2WDs0onh3rxaKfi-TS6nBSguoUy6mqrVRZ2wqP_DrMfv1MNG8pBDAuvnVyG71u4Ssv__-sMO4Z_shl4aBII5CJshxuTznqK5x3JdjjJr8JnXaUXtr72RMQXKXMbH8u1jgABiWd6SxGX0/s1600/postcard_cover_lowres.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
Theta Phi Alphahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02196882551306536885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419265833164816125.post-21316840635979900132016-03-16T08:03:00.000-07:002016-04-28T11:02:56.438-07:00February/March News & Notes<i><span style="color: #999999;">This post comes to you from Tracy Sexton our National Ritual Chairman.</span></i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7-qgCEOcQWVF8_Maq3us1-WyspXDYqEyh7d4PYWJ79zZuhbwsUQ3ZtLYnGCQY2W5EUjmfeL1nEgyjeayR5U-yyy2vkSl9aHH7NLuwXM-cu_LyAcCJ4tSeNhzURic9DG6V3OoOEhDCh7g/s1600/ritualgraphic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7-qgCEOcQWVF8_Maq3us1-WyspXDYqEyh7d4PYWJ79zZuhbwsUQ3ZtLYnGCQY2W5EUjmfeL1nEgyjeayR5U-yyy2vkSl9aHH7NLuwXM-cu_LyAcCJ4tSeNhzURic9DG6V3OoOEhDCh7g/s640/ritualgraphic.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
March is an exciting month for Ritual. The month starts off with National Ritual
Celebration Week (NRCW) from March 6-12th. NRCW was created by Phi Mu in
2011 to encourage reflection on Ritual for their collegian and alumnae members.
Since its conception, other national fraternities and sororities have collaborated with
Phi Mu on NRCW to inspire Ritual discernment, share Ritual programming and
nationally unite Greek men and women in celebration of their organization’s unique
values. For the first time, Theta Phi Alpha is excited to participate in NRCW. Please
refer to our website to learn about ways you can celebrate Ritual with your chapter
or alumnae association<br />
<br />
Spring is also an eventful time for initiations and with Founders' Day around the
corner, we will now reflect on an aspect of Theta Phi Alpha’s rich history to address
both Initiation and our Founders. A big question this year has been what to wear (or
not wear) to Initiation. Nationally, we encourage women in all phases of membership
to follow the instructions outlined in the Ritual book. Ritual is conducted with the
utmost respect and dignity. Items that can detract from the solemnity of the
ceremony should be removed. Historically our would wake New Members in the
middle of the night and take them to Initiation as they were. That’s right; no makeup,
no jewelry, and likely no stylish hair. As we no longer support or allow the idea of
waking new members in the middle of the night for Initiation, we do still encourage
members of all phases to attend Initiation in their natural appearance.<br />
<br />
Finally, this busy Ritual season concludes with graduation. This could involve sisters
going from the collegiate to alumna stage or an alumna furthering her education. As
I myself am about to graduate, I have thought long and hard about this phase. I’m
torn as to where I want to work or what I want to do after graduation. At times, I find
myself distracted by opportunities for reasons that should not matter such as a
higher, unnecessary salary. As the daily struggle to figure out ‘what I want be when I
grow up’ is real, I read the creed. The line “Honor valued over wealth” immediately
pointed my needle to the North. I realized that about half of the jobs I considered
applying for were not what I really wanted to do, but the salaries were quite enticing.
As many sisters are unsure of the path ahead, I encourage you ladies to use the
creed as a guide in every stage of life.<br />
<br />
Theta Phi Alpha’s Ritual is a beautiful legacy rooted from the lessons learned by our
founders. During this busy Ritual season, I encourage you to celebrate our values
by participating in NRCW and to discern what our Ritual means to you. You can do
this by reading the Ritual Book, reflecting on the Creed, or participating in one of the
activities listed on the website. As we enter this spring season, now is the time to
refresh the lifelong commitment we made to our Ritual and allow it to guide us
through new beginnings.<br />
<br />
YITBOS,<br />
<i>Tracy Sexton, GN, National Ritual Chairman</i>Theta Phi Alphahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02196882551306536885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5419265833164816125.post-56286406163239985842016-01-20T10:25:00.000-08:002016-04-28T10:25:25.378-07:00January News & NotesWelcome 2016! As we start a New Year it is time to look to the future. 2016 is a
convention year and with convention comes the election of our Fraternity leadership.
Theta Phi Alpha is made up of countless women who are full of ambition and
untapped potential to lead and make a difference within our growing organization. We
need you to help us identify these leaders and encourage them to run for election this
summer. Even better, maybe you are the leader we’re looking for to make a difference
within our sisterhood.<br />
<br />
Elected officers include the Grand Council and Board of Trustees (BOT). If you, or
someone you know, is interested in running for a position read below to see if you
qualify to run.<br />
<br />
<b>Board of Trustees Qualifications </b><br />
The role and qualifications of the BOT is found in our National Constitution and Bylaws
Article VI: The Board of Trustees shall receive the recommendations of the Grand
Council and shall meet with that body as necessary. Its duties shall be to advise the
Grand Council on fraternal, scholastic, and financial policies; to determine and present
the National Awards; and to nominate the elected national officers.<br />
<br />
The BOT has the power to establish as well as determine awards. This includes the
Senior Service, Guard of Honor, and Siena Medal along with a host of Chapter and
Association awards. They are also responsible for ensuring there are candidates
nominated to run for election by the convention body for both the Grand Council and
the Board of Trustees positions.<br />
<br />
Members shall have been alumnae for at least five years and be in good financial
standing. At least three of the Trustees shall be past national officers or past or
present national chairmen.<br />
<br />
The members of the BOT are elected by the Convention body, just as the members of
Grand Council are. The BOT bears no legal responsibility for the day to day
operations of the Fraternity, as the members of Grand Council do.<br />
<br />
<b>Grand Council Qualifications </b><br />
The duties of the Grand Council can be found in Bylaw II, the Grand Council shall
perform all duties ordinarily the responsibility of the directors of a corporation, shall
communicate with one another at least once a month, and shall meet at least annually.
Qualifications for Grand Council members can be found in Article V, each member of
the Grand Council shall be an alumna member in good financial standing who
previously has held a national office or chairmanship. Each member of the Grand
Council shall have earned a bachelor’s degree at least five years before election. The
National Treasurer shall have a degree with a concentration in accounting or two
years experience in accounting-related work.<br />
<br />
It is a large responsibility to serve the Fraternity, but it is also a rewarding experience.
I hope you will consider volunteering your time, talent and leadership! In the words of
Emma Watson, “if not me who, if not now when?”Theta Phi Alphahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02196882551306536885noreply@blogger.com0