Sexy, Sweaty Service!

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