The Quill of Alpha Xi Delta - Spring 2015

the

CONVENTION 2015 DETAILS

NEW PROGRAM FOR ALUMNAE

A NEW HOME AT ILLINOIS

A Sister’s Mission Sandra Schiffili Salerno, Indiana ‘00, shares her painful discovery of learning her baby needed to have half of her brain removed.

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“You can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect

them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something - your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. This approach has never let me down, and it has made all the difference in my life.” - Steve Jobs

Trusting your gut. We all have had that feeling where we’ve felt torn with a decision, but deep down inside, you get that feeling – you know the one I’m talking about. Whether it is trusting your instincts to take that new job or sign up for a new class, we rely on our gut feeling to give us that quick ‘is this a good idea?’ check. Do you think our ten Founders had this gut feeling on April 17, 1893? Or, what about the decision for Alpha Xi Delta to expand as a national organization?

Our Founders were pioneers. Every April 17, for the past 122 years, we celebrate their vision of a Fraternity that would give to its members love, friendship and strong impulses toward leading nobler lives. We benefit greatly from the trailblazers that went before us; we learn from their successes and how they handled the challenges they faced. Think back to when you decided to join Alpha Xi Delta. It just felt like home, right? I bet that was your gut talking. We recently installed three chapters (learn about them on pages 14-15), and it certainly takes a strong, bold young woman to take that leap of faith to start a chapter from the ground up. Even though her chapter wasn’t as established as other organizations on campus yet, Alpha Xi Delta spoke to each of these women and made them feel at home. In this issue, we also meet a Sister who trusted her gut instincts as a

mother to get the correct care for her daughter when answers were not readily available. By doing so, she was able to save her daughter’s life and give this special little girl a chance to thrive. As we look to the summer months, I want to personally invite you to our 51st National Convention in Boston. I can’t express fully in words how fun it is to reconnect and renew your Alpha Xi Delta membership at Convention. You’ll just have to trust me (and your gut), and come see for yourself in person! You can get all the details about Convention on pages 8-11. I hope to see you soon!

Loyally,

Sandi Edwards National President

PRESIDENT’S LETTER

Thoughts from SandiEpsilon Omicron Chapter President Taylor Watkins unveiled her chapter’s

charter alongside National President Sandi Edwards during the Installation luncheon at Oklahoma State University. Photo credit: Digital Pix

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851st National Convention | We hope to

see you in Boston, July 1-4, 2015.

4 Letters to the Editor

5 What’s Trending?

6 Q&A

12 Housing News

14 Installation Update

16 Tales from the Road

18 Foundation News

34 Member News

38 Philanthropy News

44 Chapter Eternal

47 From the Archives

48 Foundation Memorial

and Honor Listing

CONTENTSConnect with us!Join the conversation with Sisters and keep up to date with the Fraternity by following us on our social media channels.

A Sister’s Mission | Sandra Schiffli Salerno, Indiana ’00, shares the story

of why half her baby’s brain was removed. Cover Photo Credit: Chris Dominque, The Photo Shop Texas

22#social101 | Jamie Sigler, East Carolina ’97,

co-founder of J Public Relations, shares her take on

building and protecting your digital identity.

19A Clear Vision of Life | We recently

launched A Clear Vision of Life: The Wellbeing

Program for alumnae members.

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

The Quill of Alpha Xi Delta is published three times per year in spring, summer and fall/winter by Alpha Xi Delta Fraternity.® POSTMASTER: Send address changes to THE QUILL OF ALPHA XI DELTA, 8702 Founders Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268

Volume 112/Issue 1Copyright 2015 by Alpha Xi Delta Fraternity; all rights reserved.

Alpha Xi Delta Fraternity 8702 Founders RoadIndianapolis, IN [email protected]

Submission DeadlinesSummer issue – June 1Fall/Winter issue – September 6Spring issue – January 23

Submission ProceduresText and photographs may be emailed to the Editor or to the Fraternity Headquarters address listed above. Photographs submitted become the property of the Fraternity. Digital images must be taken using the highest settings on a camera that’s at least 3.2 megapixels.

Address/Name ChangesVisit www.alphaxidelta.org or mail changes to 8702 Founders Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46268.

National Executive DirectorElysia Balster Gallivan, South Dakota ’93

Director of Communications and Marketing Lauren Blankenbaker Felts, Indiana ’03

National Council 2013-2015National PresidentSandi Edwards, Kentucky ’75

National Vice PresidentsSuzanne Cantando, UNC Asheville ’92Michele Herbst Evink, South Dakota State ’86Nancy Fehremann Gainer, Iowa State ’69Micaela Isler, Texas ’91Fatima Johnson, UNC Asheville ’95Nealy Patty Wheat, West Georgia ’97

The Mission of The Quill of Alpha Xi Delta:To inform, inspire and challenge. To sustain and nurture membership loyalty and interest. To recognize individual, group and Fraternity accomplishments. To provide a forum for the exchange of information and opinion. To be the permanent record for the Fraternity.

I received my fall/winter 2014 issue in the mail in December, looked through it, and headed out the door to dinner at my boyfriend’s mother’s house. I’d been dating him for nearly 16 months and thought I knew his family pretty well. The conversation came up randomly about Greek life at college and his mother said, “I was the president of my sorority.” I had no idea she was even in one, and I responded, “Wow! I was the vice president of mine, too. Which one?” Well, when she said, “Alpha Xi Delta”, I screamed and nearly spit out my dinner in excitement! I couldn’t be happier that my hopefully soon-to-be future mother-in-law is also my Sister. It was an awesome moment! - Nicole Pace, George Mason ’98

I took my daughter, Kathleen Serio, on a college visit to Marshall University. After we completed our tour, met with a math professor and sat through a statistics class, I asked her if she wanted to see the sorority house. She decided that would be fine, if only to see how it compared to sorority houses she had seen on TV and in movies. When we walked up to the front door, I was relieved to see some heads through the window because that meant someone would answer the door. The Sister who did was smiling, welcoming and gracious. I explained I was an alumna from the University of Kentucky and asked if someone could show us around the house. Two other girls in the dining room smiled, said hello and engaged us in conversation.

After checking with the house mother for permission, which impressed me, we were given a tour. Kathleen saw the lovely, comfortable and inviting home. Wherever we went, Sisters greeted us, engaged us in conversation and made us feel welcome. When the tour came to an end, the girls in the dining room talked to Kathleen and, on their own, told her why they had chosen to attend Marshall and what they liked most about it. They wished us well and thanked us for stopping by. We thanked them and left. We did not even get down the steps when Kathleen exclaimed, “I want to be one of them!” She gushed about how much she loved the people she met, how much she loved the house, how nice everyone was and how the house mother was making cookies! She couldn’t believe it. She told me that, until she had gone to the house, Marshall was OK, but after having met my Sisters, she really wanted to come to school there. She was euphoric. So, I am writing to say THANK YOU for conveying to my daughter what my words could not. You truly brought into living reality our Sisterhood of women. You demonstrated to her the special bond that is created when you become a member of Alpha Xi Delta. Because of you, Kathleen now gets it. She gets how being a member of Alpha Xi Delta not only enhances your college experience, but also gives you a connection for life. Regardless of where Kathleen chooses to attend college, I know that our visit will make a difference in her future. Because of this, my heart is full of sunshine and I will remember you always.

- Kim Starr, Kentucky ’79 and Past National President

What’s on your mind? Have a comment about an article in The Quill? Drop us an email at [email protected] or send a note to The Quill, 8702 Founders Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268. We reserve the right to select letters for publication and to edit for style and length.

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what’s trending now

Extension UpdateAlpha Xi Delta is proud to announce we

will colonize new chapters this fall at

Kennesaw State University and Texas

Tech University (TTU).

“Alpha Xi Delta alumnae throughout

Texas and across the country are thrilled

to establish a chapter at Texas Tech,” said

Alpha Xi Delta’s National President Sandi

Edwards. “Through our aligned values, our

deep traditions, and plans for the future,

we know this partnership will create an

environment for positive growth in the

TTU community and provide more young

women the opportunity to realize their

potential.” Texas Tech, located in Lubbock,

Texas, is a public research university with

more than 33,000 enrolled students. It is

currently home to 11 National Panhellenic

Conference (NPC) organizations, making

Alpha Xi Delta the 12th NPC sorority to

join campus next fall.

Kennesaw State University is located in

Kennesaw, Georgia, and is home to six NPC

organizations. As Georgia’s third-largest

university, Kennesaw State offers more than

100 undergraduate and graduate degrees,

including a growing doctoral program.

$3 million and countingAlpha Xi Delta Fraternity is excited to

announce we have raised more than

$3,000,000 for Autism Speaks, with $1

million raised in just this past year! “The

number of children being diagnosed with

autism is still growing at an alarming

rate, and the women of Alpha Xi Delta

will continue to do our part to support the

mission of Autism Speaks. We are grateful to

Autism Speaks for giving us the opportunity

to help improve the lives of children and

families affected by autism spectrum

disorders,” said National Executive

Director Elysia Gallivan.

Tag Me!Instagram is a fun way to share your

life with friends through a series of

pictures. Snap a photo with your mobile

phone, choose a filter to transform the

look of the image and upload it for your

friends and family members to view on

Instagram. A recent hashtag has been

circulating every Tuesday to celebrate our

Sisterhood - #TFJTuesday. Every Tuesday,

tag your photos (and us…@alphaxidelta)

on Instagram with #TFJTuesday. We may

even feature our favorite photos in the

summer issue of The Quill!

Happy birthday, Alpha Xi Delta!On April 17, Alpha Xi Delta celebrated

her 122nd birthday. How will you make

this Alpha Xi Delta’s best year? Will

you make the time to lend your talents

as a volunteer? Or, will you share your

treasures with a donation to the Alpha

Xi Delta Foundation? Let’s reflect on

the tireless efforts of the Sisters who

came before us and consider how you

can help further our vision of inspiring

women to realize their potential.

#TFJTuesday

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Q&A

Pandora! I always have to have music playing, whether it’s working out, studying or spending time with my Sisters.- Kari Hart, Youngstown State ’13

I love the Tiffany Engagement Ring Finder. I have fun trying on all the rings and dreaming of diamonds.- Michelle Caillouet,

Henderson State ’04

Duolingo! It’s a great way to learn new languages, and it’s really fun! iStudiez Pro is a great app for keeping track of classes and school work. - Claire Simons, UNC Asheville ’14

I love the app called Studio. It’s perfect for graphic design and picture editing. I use it for all my business work! - Kait Tunnell,

East Tennessee State ’11

Afterlight! It can make even the worst pictures from incandescent lighting look pretty.- Becca Oliver, Eastern

Washington ’09

GymPact--you put money on how many times you’ll work out that week. If you don’t make your goal, you pay your per-workout fee. If you make your goal, you get a piece of the pot. It’s not much, but I paid for two races with my earnings last year. Great motivation! - Amy Hollinger, Towson ’97

I like Timehop because I love reliving great memories through past Facebook, Twitter and Instagram posts. - Carolyn Cotham, Southwestern ’13

As a teacher, I love Remind! It’s an opt-in messaging app that allows me to send reminders to students and parents safely and securely. Recipients can “stamp” the message to indicate receipt. Highly recommend it for educators of all levels!- Elana Coan, San Diego State ’92

Weather Bug! This allows you to pinpoint the closest station to your house.- Andrea Fournet,

Louisiana State ’71

AQ What’syourfavoriteapp?

What’s your favorite summer reading book?

Submit your response to [email protected] for possible entry in the next issue of The Quill.

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XI BOUTIQUE AD

BlueHerringbonePocketT-Shirt

Alpha Xi Delta t-shirt featuring an adorable herringbone design

and a matching front pocket!

Available in unisex sizes. Product SKU: #GMS1415

$32.50

Xi Boutique, our official store, offers a variety of merchandise for you to show your Alpha Xi Delta pride. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, we also offer custom group orders at affordable prices. By shopping at Xi Boutique, you support Alpha Xi Delta and give us the opportunity to provide more programming and educational opportunities to our Sisters. Shop at www.xiboutique.com or call us at 317.608.3379.

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CONVENTION 2015

Registration for Alpha Xi Delta’s 51st National Convention in Boston is now OPEN! For registration details, visit www.alphaxideltaconvention.org. All Sisters are invited to attend this special celebration.

Make memories in Boston!

Convention InformationWednesday, July 1, 2015 – Saturday, July 4, 2015

ACCOMMODATIONSThe Sheraton Boston Hotel is located just four miles from Boston Logan International Airport. Enjoy indoor access to shopping and restaurants at The Shops at Prudential Center and Copley Place or one of their Boston Back Bay restaurants. Stroll just a few blocks to Copley Square, the Charles River, the Museum of Fine Arts or Fenway Park. The hotel room rate is $174 per night. You may book your hotel room online or reservations may also be made by phone at 1.888.627.7054. Be sure to reference Alpha Xi Delta Conference Room Block if you are making a reservation via phone. As a reminder, hotel reservations are NOT included in the registration fee. Hotel reservations must be made individually.

GETTING TO CONVENTIONTravel arrangements are the responsibility of the attendee. Best fares will likely be found through an internet search, but all are welcome to use the Fraternity’s travel agent.

Kim CriscuoloEmail: [email protected] Free Phone: 800.952.1998; Extension 4902Phone: 972.643.4902

REGISTERINGAttendees must register online via Exclusively Xi. If you are unable to register online, please contact Fraternity Headquarters at 317.872.3500 x123 or [email protected]. Registrations received after May 29, 2015, are subject to a late registration fee.

Convention AgendaThis list is an overview of what to expect each day of Convention. A more detailed schedule will be available at www.alphaxideltaconvention.org.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 1The Workout, Alpha Xi Delta’s comprehensive recruitment training program will take place from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. as a special pre-Convention activity (The Workout is for collegiate members who serve as Membership Vice President for their chapter.) Alpha Xi Delta’s 51st National Convention will kick off officially at 6 p.m. on July 1 with our Sisterhood Social event. This event will feature an hors d’oeuvre reception, plenty of fun and time to visit with Sisters from near and far!

THURSDAY, JULY 2This first full-day of Convention will get started with Initiation and Delegate Orientation. The bulk of the day will be focused on education and the five areas of wellbeing with general session speakers and educational breakout sessions. We are excited to host Glennon Doyle Melton, author of Momastery.com and “Carry On Warrior- The Power of Embracing Your Messy, Beautiful Life”, as one of our general session speakers. Then, celebrate your school and state pride at the Welcome Banquet.

FRIDAY, JULY 3 Want to help us Light It Up Blue? If so, please plan to join us at the Philanthropy Breakfast! We will celebrate our partnership with Autism Speaks before launching into the business of the National Fraternity at our first National Chapter meeting. Education sessions will fill in the afternoon agenda, and we will celebrate the amaXIng work of our chapters and associations during the Awards Celebration.

SATURDAY, JULY 4The morning of the Fourth of July will be free time for all attendees to explore the historic city of Boston in all of its Independence Day glory! Gather back at the Sheraton in the afternoon to conclude the business of the National Fraternity at our last National Chapter meeting. Once business is complete, get dressed in your cocktail attire for our beloved Rose Banquet, where we will install our national officers. After the program, we will board a boat, Spirit of Boston, to cruise around the Boston Harbor. This cruise will feature a fantastic dinner, fun with Sisters and a spectacular view of Boston’s fireworks.

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CONVENTION 2015

Cost and Package OptionsFULL REGISTRATION (available April 13th – May 29th) $625 per person.

LATE FULL REGISTRATION (available May 30th – June 12th) $675 a person.

Additionally, some special packages and individual tickets are available for purchase. Here is a breakdown of the available package options:

EDUCATION PACKAGEThis package begins with the Sisterhood Social at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, July 1 and concludes at the end of our education sessions on Thursday, July 2. Come enjoy some fun with Sisters at the Sisterhood Social, witness Convention Initiation, partake in hearing fantastic general session speakers, including Glennon Doyle Melton, author of Momastery.com and “Carry On Warrior - The Power of Embracing Your Messy, Beautiful Life”, and round out the day with plenty of opportunities for education and growth at our education sessions.

CELEBRATION PACKAGEThis package begins with the Awards Reception on Friday, July 3 and concludes at the end of the Rose Banquet on Saturday, July 4. Honor our accomplishments at the Awards Celebration, spend time with Sisters, enjoy historic Boston on Independence Day, attend a National Chapter meeting and cap the experience with an evening on the water on Spirit of Boston, complete with dinner and fireworks overlooking Boston Harbor.

THE WORKOUTWednesday, July 1 from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sisters, get ready to tone your recruitment muscles! The Workout, Alpha Xi Delta’s comprehensive recruitment training program, will take place at Convention this summer. All Membership Vice Presidents are highly encouraged to attend. This program is for collegiate members only. For questions regarding The Workout, please contact Heather Chibuk at [email protected].

WELCOME BANQUETThursday, July 2. Show your school and state pride with your wardrobe as we officially welcome you to Alpha Xi Delta’s 51st National Convention.

PHILANTHROPY BREAKFASTFriday, July 3. Help Alpha Xi Delta Light It Up Blue, as we celebrate our partnership with Autism Speaks. Don’t forget to wear blue!

AWARDS CELEBRATIONFriday, July 3. Come enjoy a reception and awards ceremony as we celebrate Alpha Xi Delta individuals, chapters and associations’ successes.

ROSE BANQUETSaturday, July 4. The celebration will begin at the hotel when we install our National officers. After the program, we will be cruising around the Harbor enjoying delicious food, time with Sisters and the Fourth of July fireworks aboard Spirit of Boston. Note: The cruise is part of the Rose Banquet and is not a separate event.

Attire With the exception of the events listed below, the attire for Convention is Quill attire. Shorts, halter tops and similar casual clothing are not appropriate.

THE WORKOUT: Dress is casual. (Collegians Only) SISTERHOOD EVENT: Dress is casual. WELCOME BANQUET: Wear your school colors as we celebrate our school and state pride! This is Quill attire. PHILANTHROPY BREAKFAST: Wear blue to support our partnership with Autism Speaks™!

AWARDS CELEBRATION: Suitable attire is either a dress or nice pantsuit. INITIATION CEREMONY: White or cream-colored dress or pantsuit, and white or cream-colored shoes must be worn for the Initiation. ROSE BANQUET: Please plan to wear either red, white or blue semi-formal or cocktail attire as we celebrate The Fourth of July.

OTHER ITEMS TO PACK:

• Quill badge• Sunscreen• Sunglasses

• Lip Balm• Camera• Walking Shoes

• Umbrella• Sweater• Money to shop

at Xi Boutique

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Glennon Doyle Melton is the author of the inspiring and hilarious New York Times bestselling memoir, Carry On, Warrior. She is the founder of Momastery.com, an

online community where hundreds of thousands of readers meet daily to experience her shameless and laugh-out-loud funny essays about marriage, motherhood, faith, addiction, recovery, and serving the marginalized. She is also the creator and president of Together Rising, a non-profit organization that has revolutionized online giving through “Love Flash Mobs” and has connected countless families in need with hundreds of thousands of dollars in critical resources. Glennon became a sensation when her personal essays, which give language to our universal (yet often secret) experiences started going viral. Her hilarious and poignant observations have been read by millions, shared among friends, discussed at water coolers and have now inspired a social movement. Glennon is a regular contributor to The Huffington Post and other publications. Carry On, Warrior, Glennon and her philanthropic work have been featured on “The Today Show,” “The Talk,” and NPR as well as in Ladies’ Home Journal, Woman’s Day, Glamour UK, Family Circle, Parents Magazine, American Baby and Newsweek, to name just a few. A popular speaker in the U.S. and internationally, Glennon speaks frequently to diverse audiences including corporations, universities, faith communities, non-profit groups, mental health professionals, parents’ organizations, women’s leadership and non-profit conferences, and writing groups. When speaking to corporate and association audiences, she motivates leaders and employees to build trust and cohesion

on their teams by embracing courage, boldness and purpose in their life’s work. Drawing from her own personal story of addiction and recovery, Glennon inspires mental health and addiction/recovery audiences with her authentic, empowering, hopeful, and fresh perspective on healing. She speaks with passion and humor to diverse faith communities about freedom, joy, peace, inclusion and loving ourselves and each other. Speaking with parents’ groups and community organizations, Glennon employs her trademark wit and candor to encourage us all to step out from behind masks of perfection and start connecting with one another by showing up as our real, messy and beautiful selves. She is known for her unique ability to inspire women to embrace unity and each other. The fact that her events sell out across the county is testament that her authenticity, power and humor translate forcefully from the page to the stage. Glennon expresses universal truth through storytelling, giving voice to our shared experiences and allowing us to feel known. She invites us to believe in ourselves, to be brave and kind, to let go of the idea of perfection and to stop making life harder by pretending it’s not hard. She easily expresses what so many of us think, but would not dare say aloud. Glennon is a courageous truth-teller and hope-spreader, a wise and witty friend who emboldens us to believe in ourselves and reminds us that the journey is the reward. She shows us that by shedding our weapons and armor, we can stop hiding, competing and striving for the mirage of perfection, to build lives, relationships, homes, businesses and communities.

Meet our General Session Speaker

AUTHORGlennon Doyle Melton


NHC: UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS CHAPTER RENOVATION RECAP

WELCOME HOME,

Swapping in a softer, feminine palette and creating an

inviting living and learning space took this chapter house

at the University of Illinois to a whole new level through

the work of the National Housing Corporation and interior

designer Linda Hartman.

It’s bright and beautiful now, but it didn’t always

look this way. Check out the transformation!

KAPPA!

BEFOREThe living and parlor rooms had extensive damage to the flooring and the trim was heavy and dark. New, bright white trim and beautiful wood floors are showstoppers in the new living room design.

LIGHTEN UPA calming palette of neutrals with pops of color opens up the room and creates an attractive look. Since Kappa is a large chapter, multiple seating options are a must to accommodate places for Sisters to study and socialize. A playful mix of patterns provides a youthful, yet refined look to the once drab and dark parlor and living rooms.

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WELCOME HOME,

THE PORCHThe color palette from the living and parlor rooms flows to the sun room to create a great space for Sisters to study. The windows open the space up and provide great natural light that complements the brightness of the white trim and X-back chairs. The chaise lounges, featuring nail head trim, are a sophisticated and comfortable place to relax.


CHAPTER INSTALLATIONS

Franklin & Marshall CollegeLocation: Lancaster, PennsylvaniaChapter: Iota PsiInstallationdate: December 7, 2014

Theschool: Established in 1787, Franklin & Marshall College (F&M) is dedicated to excellence in undergraduate liberal education. The college is currently home to more than 2,300 students and five National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) groups.

Colonysnapshot: Alpha Xi Delta received and accepted an invitation to colonize a chapter at F&M in April of 2014. Public relations efforts began that spring, followed by a complete colonization in the fall of 2014. The colony celebrated Bid Day in September, and since then our colony women at F&M have shown great pride in their chapter, on campus and within Alpha Xi Delta. Our colony at F&M officially became the Iota Psi Chapter of Alpha Xi Delta on December 7, 2014. The Iota Psi Chapter of Alpha Xi Delta is now the fifth National Panhellenic Organization on F&M’s campus.

Oklahoma State UniversityLocation: Stillwater, OklahomaChapter:Epsilon OmicronReinstallationdate: January 31, 2015

Theschool: As Oklahoma’s only university with a statewide presence, Oklahoma State University (OSU) improves the lives of people in Oklahoma, the nation and the world through integrated, high-quality teaching, research, and outreach. Established in 1890, OSU has more than 35,000 students across its five-campus system and more than 24,000 on its combined Stillwater and Tulsa campuses, with students from all 50 states and around 120 nations.

Colonysnapshot: Alpha Xi Delta is now the 13th National Panhellenic Conference organization on the OSU campus. The Fraternity accepted the invitation to recolonize its Epsilon Omicron Chapter in July of 2013. The chapter was first installed at Oklahoma State University in 1968. The colony was officially reinstalled at the ConocoPhillips OSU Alumni Center on Saturday, January 31. A luncheon was held at the OSU Student Union following the Installation where nearly 250 Sisters, family and friends celebrated the new chapter. At the luncheon, the chapter was presented with its official charter.

Chapter Installations

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The University of Wisconsin-MadisonLocation: Madison, WisconsinChapter:ThetaReinstallationdate: March 1, 2015

Theschool: The University of Wisconsin–Madison is a public research university founded in 1848 when Wisconsin achieved statehood and is the official state university of Wisconsin. UW–Madison is organized into 20 schools and colleges, which enrolls 29,504 undergraduate, 9,430 graduate and 2,526 professional students. Its comprehensive academic program offers 132 undergraduate majors, along with 149 master’s degree programs and 120 doctoral programs.

Colonysnapshot:Alpha Xi Delta accepted the invitation to return to UW-Madison in December of 2013. A full, Fraternity-coordinated colonization effort occurred in the fall of 2014. The chapter was officially reinstalled on March 1, making them the 12th National Panhellenic organization at UW-Madison.

Alpha Xi Delta’s Theta Chapter was first installed on January 16, 1905. The chapter, along with seven other sororities, left campus during the midst of the Vietnam War era, and was reestablished in 1980. Theta Chapter remained active on campus and within UW-Madison community until it became dormant in 1996. Since the chapter’s establishment in 1905, more than 1,000 women have joined the organization and continue to call the Theta Chapter home.


TALES FROM THE ROAD

What’s it really like to travel for the Fraternity?Educational Leadership Consultants (ELC) have the opportunity to work with Alpha Xi Delta’s newly colonized chapters and travel across the country to meet Sisters through one-on-one meetings and chapter programs. It’s truly a unique experience that is full of opportunities for a young woman to realize her potential. What lessons did you learn about yourself while traveling?“It takes a lot of maturity, independence and flexibility to be an ELC or LC. I’m sure I had those qualities even before I traveled, but the experience really emphasized those abilities and gave me confidence that I could do anything I set my mind to.” – Michelle Hartnett, Nebraska-Lincoln ’88, Foundation Trustee and 1992-1993 Educational Leadership Consultant

What were your professional growth opportunities while traveling?“I gained the ability to speak comfortably in any setting, whether that is a one-on-one meeting or a ballroom full of people. I learned how to follow through on a new level as well as develop my problem solving skills. I saw obstacles firsthand and was able to provide solutions and options for people. It was real-life learning to experience. I learned the power of connections and relationships, whether it is with volunteers or campus professionals. You never know when these connections will matter and how important it is to always be mindful of the impression you leave.” – Elysia Gallivan, South Dakota ’93, National Executive Director and 1996-1998 Educational Leadership Consultant

What Alpha Xi Delta volunteer opportunities were available to you after you finished traveling?“The foundation of information you gain as a traveler is great preparation for volunteering. As a member of your local chapter, you are exposed to some volunteers, but when you travel for Alpha Xi Delta, your eyes will be opened to the

hundreds of women volunteering across the country with our chapters. While I have been a Chapter Advisor and an Area Facilitator, I wouldn’t have known about the volunteer role that I currently serve in, and have served in for the last decade, had I not traveled for the Fraternity.” – Andi Fouberg, South Dakota State ’95, National Ritual Director and 1999-2000 Educational Leadership Consultant

As our current team of ELCs wrap up their year on the road, here’s what they have to say: “I learned how to adjust to any kind of environment. My rich travel experience has truly prepared me to be ready for whatever situation is handed to me, and I look forward to using these new skills in whatever path life leads me.” - Brooke Dorris, Educational Leadership Consultant

“This job has helped me to figure out that my true passion is working with college students and my desire to pursue a career in higher education.” - Shelby Young, Educational Leadership Consultant and former Leadership Coach

Are you a past Educational Leadership Consultant or

Leadership Coach? Let us know how that position inspired you

by sending your comments to [email protected].

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Alpha Xi Asks The Leadership Coach (LC) Program is a portion of the Alpha Xi Delta traveling team. The traveling team’s other members are Educational Leadership Consultants. LCs support collegiate chapters by presenting programs centered on life and leadership skills to our undergraduate members. LCs Bailey Hamm, Florida Atlantic ’10, and Anna Salvaggio, Western Michigan ’10, had the opportunity to facilitate more strength-based visits this academic year than any previous year as more chapters recognize the benefits of this special

program that is unique to Alpha Xi Delta. With each program, members are able to hone in on what makes them unique and follow-up with a one-on-one meeting to discuss and brainstorm how they can utilize their strengths to support their own goals and the goals of their chapter.

Here’s what Bailey and Anna had to say about their experience facilitating strength-based programming:

“Four Domains of Leadership.” This portion takes the focus off the meaning of individual strengths and helps members understand how they can be the most constructive and effective team players.

A portion of the program talks about the basement of our strengths, how they can be viewed negatively, the balcony of our strengths and way we can see them in a more positive light. This is most impactful because it is where women really connect that their strengths are what make them great, while giving them words to stop the negative talk of their strengths.

What do you think is the

most impactful portion of the strength-based programming?

Which strength do you

use most?

Most impactful

How have you seen chapters put strengths into practice?

So much of our time in leadership roles is about team work and collaboration. This program not only prepares our chapter leaders in their teams and supports the development of our chapters, but it also helps them in other organizations in which they are members.

I use all of my strengths as an LC, but I would have to say I love being an Activator. Activator means turning thoughts into actions. For me, it means creating momentum for chapters and pushing Sisters to be their best.

I included my strengths in the header of my resume and was asked about them in multiple interviews. This gave me an opportunity to share my leadership strengths with potential employers and show them the value of my Alpha Xi Delta experience.

Some chapters I have worked with become so jazzed to implement strengths into their daily operations that they appoint a StrengthsQuest chair! This position essentially comes up with ways to talk about strengths at chapter meetings and highlights women who are seen using their strengths in different way.

My Futuristic strength helps me think about how my individual coaching sessions and programs will affect the women I am meeting. Using this strength, I am able to help Sisters develop their visions for Alpha Xi Delta’s future and see the potential they have to move us forward.

Interviewers will be blown away with your ability to articulate what your strengths are and how you use them. Being able to do so will give your interviewer a better idea of who you are and the talents you bring to the table.

How can you continue to incorporate strengths

beyond college?

Anna Salvaggio,Western Michigan ‘10

Bailey HammFlorida Atlantic ‘10


FOUNDATION NEWS

MEET THE ZELMA PATCHIN GRANT RECIPIENTJessica Nelson, West Virginia Wesleyan ’05

Using the Zelma Patchin Grant from the Alpha Xi Delta Foundation, I was able to attend the National Autism Conference at Penn State University during the summer of 2014. I teach children with autism at a public school during the day. I am a board certified behavior analyst, and after school I work

at a behavior center with children who have autism. The conference provided me with cutting-edge information that would be useful in both settings, and I have already been able to apply what I learned at the conference this year. I want the Foundation donors to know how much their support means to me, both in my professional career and in my role as an advisor for our collegiate members. I have liked being able to be a role model to collegians for lifelong membership and continued involvement. You are inspiring women to do more and remain involved, while teaching them that Alpha Xi Delta will be there during your college years and beyond. The Zelma Patchin Grant provides financial assistance to Alpha Xi Delta alumnae seeking personal or professional development through conferences, programs or seminars that are not for credit. Applications must be filed sixty days prior to the program For more information, go to www.alphaxidelta.org/grants-and-awards

Alyssa Canestro, Boise State ’11

Alpha Xi Delta has helped me grow as a student. My Sisters were able to help me focus on majoring in Health Policy when I didn’t get into our highly competitive nursing program. Our chapter is really good at recognizing Sisters with high GPAs, and it is a great feeling

to be honored. The scholarship from the Foundation was so helpful to me at the time because my family was financially challenged. Knowing what it meant to me and seeing how it helped my situation, supporting the Undergraduate Giving Challenge is the right thing for me to do.

UNDERGRADUATE GIVING CHALLENGE The 2014 Undergraduate Giving Challenge was an amaXIng success with a total of $18,000 given by 975 collegiate Sisters who stepped up to make their mark on the Alpha Xi Delta they love. In 2012, The Foundation transitioned the Senior Challenge to The Undergraduate Giving Challenge. During this annual challenge, each collegiate member is encouraged, or challenged, to make a gift to the Foundation of $18.93. Collegiate members giving $18.93 or more during the year are recognized by our Heart Sunshine Circle and receive a special dangle to wear proudly on their badge.

Our Founders were trailblazers for future generations. They came together when there were few women attending college and boldly formed a women’s organization that would provide

female students with a positive college experience, support and friendship. In 2014, the Foundation introduced The Founders’ Challenge, an opportunity for you to give back to the organization that has given us all so much. Your generosity — whether the few dollars you would have spent on a cup of coffee or something more–furthers the dream of our Founders. “True to our Founders’ vision, Alpha Xi Delta continues to provide opportunities for young women. In every way, she is shaping the lives of tomorrow’s business and civic leaders; tomorrow’s teachers; and tomorrow’s mothers, Sisters and friends,” said Sandi Edwards, Alpha Xi Delta National President. You can be a trailblazer for future generations like our Founders. The Founders’ Challenge is underway. Make your special gift at www.alphaxidelta.org/give or call 317.872.3500. Your gift honors our past and invests in our future.

SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

THE FOUNDERS’ CHALLENGE

Alpha Xi Delta is excited to roll out A Clear Vision of Life: The Wellbeing Program, an educational program specifically designed for Alpha Xi Delta alumnae.

A THE WELLBEING PROGRAM

of Life Vision Clear

alphaxidelta.org 19

THE FOUNDERS’ CHALLENGE


A CLEAR VISION OF LIFE: THE WELLBEING PROGRAM FOR ALUMNAE

Based on the book, “Wellbeing: The Five

Essential Elements” by Tom Rath and Jim

Harter, the program offers “Challenges”

related to the five elements of Wellbeing: Career,

Social, Financial, Physical and Community.

If you haven’t already picked up a copy of the book, be sure to do so and complete the Wellbeing Finder assessment, which is accessed online through a special code in the book. If you’re going to order your book online, register for the Amazon Smile program and give a portion of your purchase price back to the Alpha Xi Delta Foundation!

So, how does this all work?Five times per year, in February, May, August, October and December, new Wellbeing Challenges will be released. There will be one Challenge per Wellbeing element (Career, Social, Financial, Physical, Community) and you are welcome to participate in as many or as few as you like. Instructions for how to complete each Challenge will be posted on Exclusively Xi in the Resource Center, which can be accessed from the left side bar menu under Communications. There is a folder for A Clear Vision of Life and five sub-folders within it, one for each Wellbeing element. Open the folders, read the Challenge information and decide how you want to participate. Each time you complete a Wellbeing Challenge, be sure to fill out the Reporting Form and be entered into a drawing to win a prize related to that Challenge. Here’s how:

1. In Exclusively Xi, click on Forms in the left side bar menu.

2. At the top of the page you will find the Wellbeing Challenge Report Form. Click on that and fill out the information about yourself, which Challenge you completed and what you gained from the experience.

There is one prize per Challenge, so if you complete all five Challenges each time around, you have the chance to win five different prizes! To be considered for a prize, your challenge report form for each completed challenge has to be submitted before the following dates:

MAY 2015 CHALLENGE Submit forms by August 5, 2015.

AUGUST 2015 CHALLENGE Submit forms by September 30, 2015.

Pin with us!Be sure to follow the Wellbeing Element boards on the Alpha Xi Delta Pinterest account (pinterest.com/alphaxidelta) to learn more about each element and find additional tips and information to improve your Wellbeing!

Disclaimer:Please note that A Clear Vision of Life: The Wellbeing Program is intended to be a fun and informational way to improve your personal Wellbeing across

five areas of life. Any advice, recommendations, tips and activities should be utilized at your own discretion, and any lifestyle changes should be addressed first by a

medical professional.

A Clear Vision of Life: The Wellbeing Program is an educational program specifically designed for Alpha Xi Delta alumnae based on the book, “Wellbeing:

The Five Essential Elements” by Tom Rath and Jim Harter. While participation is not contingent on reading the book—the book is an excellent way to further

understand and develop your personal wellbeing. Each book purchase comes with a free code to take the online Wellbeing Finder assessment. You can purchase

your book at any major book seller, however we encourage you to order (or download to your Kindle) through the Amazon Smile program. Amazon will donate 0.5%

of the price of your book to the Alpha Xi Delta Foundation if you visit smile.amazon.com and select the Alpha Xi Delta Foundation as your charitable organization.

alphaxidelta.org 21

The Wellbeing Team

MEET THE TEAM

Mary Lu AdamsBethany ’06Career Wellbeing Coordinator Lauren BergerNew Hampshire ’06Financial Wellbeing Coordinator

Beth BouchardBucknell ’13 Social Wellbeing Coordinator Sarah FarwellSouthern Maine ’02Community Wellbeing Coordinator

Sarah ShinnEastern Michigan ’97Physical Wellbeing Coordinator Megan FosterIndiana Pennsylvania ’03 Associate Director of Education and Leadership If you have any questions about this program, please email [email protected].

The Wellbeing Team has been hard at work preparing for this program, and they look forward to your participation in the Challenges.


Charlotte West: A pioneer in women’s athletics#SOCIAL101: PROTECTING YOUR DIGITAL IDENTITY

#SOCIAL

alphaxidelta.org 23

There has been a lot of talk lately about how social media and technology are affecting our lives. People are taking technology cleanses, deleting their Facebook accounts

and turning off their cell phones just to see if this lack of social media can help improve their lives and their relationships with those around them. Maybe it’s because of these stories that I find myself sitting at a table, eating lunch with a friend, noticing all of the people

who are on their cell phones or frantically typing on their tablets. As I notice all of these individuals consumed with their technology, I can’t help but wonder what has grabbed their attention. Is it a Facebook status update, a tweet, a photo

on Instagram, an email from a co-worker or friend, a text or Snapchat? In today’s society, it’s easy for us to stay connected via social media. Smart phones allow users to log on and post a picture, send out a Tweet and update statuses on the go within seconds. People are using social media to stay in touch with their friends and family members – posting everything from pictures from college parties, status updates about their children’s first day of school, complaints about their current jobs and views on politics. All of these posts and pictures make up a person’s digital identity. According to Jamie Sigler, East Carolina ’97, co-founder

BY LAUREN FISHER, INDIANA ‘08

#SOCIAL101


of J Public Relations, a digital identity is a person’s online brand. “It’s who you are, and it’s how the world sees you,” Jamie said. “Building your social media is like building the brand of you.” When thinking about your digital identity, Jamie says think about what you want others to think about you and how you want to portray yourself to the world. “You really need to think about who you are, what makes you tick, what you’re interested in and what you stand for,” she said.

Social media and digital identity go hand-in-hand with one another. Everything you post on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn helps shape who you are online. If someone clicks on one of your social media profiles or stumbles upon your profile through visiting a friend’s page, they are going to form opinions about you based on your posts and pictures, and sometimes this might be the very first impression a stranger has of you. According to Jamie, the first step to

#SOCIAL101: PROTECTING YOUR DIGITAL IDENTITY

alphaxidelta.org 25

making sure you have a positive digital identity is making sure you have a good profile picture. “Really make sure you are putting your best foot forward,” Jamie said. “Even if it’s private, make sure that you have a good picture that is a good representation of yourself because people that you don’t know are going to be looking at it.” In addition to your profile, social media users need to constantly think about what they are putting out there. Even

if your profile is just meant for family members and friends, strangers and potential employers will find them. When interviewing a candidate for a potential job, Jamie always goes online to look at his/her Facebook page and Instagram account. “I don’t want somebody that’s seen chugging a beer or talking negatively about drama,” Jamie explains. “You can post a picture of your real life–that’s good. I want to see people’s personal sides. But just be thinking about what you’re putting out there.”

“BUILDING YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA IS

LIKE BUILDING THE BRAND OF YOU.”


#SOCIAL101: PROTECTING YOUR DIGITAL IDENTITY

When it comes to what you should post online and how to build your online persona, Jamie has some tips.

1. Decide who your audience is going to be.“Decide what your goal is for each social media avenue and what kind of layout you like,” Jamie said. LinkedIn for example, is more of a professional social network and should be used for building your professional contacts. Ask yourself if you want your Facebook page to be just for friends and family members or if you’re going to use it for both personal and professional reasons. She recommends looking at various social media accounts to see what you like and don’t like.

2. Don’t waste a post and/or photo on something random.“It’s so easy to point and click and put something out there, but just like getting ready in the morning, always be putting your best foot forward,” Jamie said. She recommends taking well thought-out photos and urges individuals to consider the lighting when taking pictures.

3. Don’t over post.“Make sure that your posts are meaningful, otherwise you start to become a little irrelevant,” Jamie said. When it comes to Instagram, she recommends posting just one or two pictures a day to avoid cluttering your followers’ feeds.

4. It’s not all about you. “Don’t just sit there and talk about yourself,” Jamie said. “Come in and interact with others!” Jamie recommends posting articles that you find intriguing or acknowledging friends for their accomplishments. Leave comments on different posts and pictures and respond to individuals when they reach out and talk to you online.

5. There is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to how much you post online. When forming a post, consider how you want the world to see you and what you want others to think about you. “I have people in my feed who are complete Debbie Downers or others who are airing information that’s really personal,” Jamie said. “Those types of discussions aren’t for me, and they aren’t necessarily for me to share with the world. You have to go back and ask yourself who you truly are and what you stand for.”

Anyone can start a Facebook page, Twitter account or Instagram profile and start building their online persona, but remember, it takes work to build a good digital identity and have a positive social media experience. In addition to being active within each community, Jamie believes we need to educate young adults and teenagers on some of the current dangers associated with social networking. Some of those dangers include online predators and cyber bullying or the ability to quickly post a photo online. If you or someone you know posts a picture of you taking part in an illegal activity or doing something that affects your image, it can prevent you from getting on a sports team, getting into college or even landing a job. “You need to think about what those

27

pictures and posts you’re putting out there say about you,” Jamie said. “And you also need to be really realistic that anything you put online, or anything that goes up to the cloud, lives there forever. It could negatively affect you for the rest of your life. Now, it’s easier than ever to post a picture, send out a message and stay connected with friends and family. This ability to tune in to social media twenty-four seven raises concerns about how it affects the way children, teenagers and young adults socialize and communicate with each other. “I think the mentality of constantly being plugged in affects your ability to actually connect when you’re connecting,” Jamie said. She says that it’s important to find a balance between staying plugged in and turning off your devices and advises people to make an effort to put away their cell phones, tablets and computers and connect with those around you. “At the end of the day, nothing means more than a visit with a friend or family member or seeing somebody in person,” she said. We’re all guilty of spending too much time with our electronics, and in an effort to become more connected with those around us Alpha Xi Delta wants to challenge Sisters everywhere to unplug from their electronics. Make an effort to go out to dinner with a Sister or pick up the phone and call a long-time friend or family member. We’re not saying give up on social media and technology all together, as we know building an online identity is important, but don’t let social media and the need to stay connected take you from the moment and prevent you from making memories that go beyond the computer screen.

Jamie Sigler is the co-founder of the bi-coastal

public relations agency, J Public Relations (JPR),

one of the nation’s leading PR agencies. In 2014,

JPR was named #84 on O’Dwyer’s 100 Top PR

Firms, ranking as the #12 top PR firms specializing

in travel. The agency was also honored with the #5

spot on UWire’s list of the Top 25 PR Firms on

Social Media, now with more than 22,000

followers on Twitter. In 2008, Alpha Xi Delta Sister

Sarah Evens joined the JPR team and became

Jamie’s business partner. The two met on Alpha Xi

Delta’s Bid Day at East Carolina University and

became lifelong friends. Together, the two

launched JPR’s east coast operation in 2009.

JAMIE S IGLER

“I THINK THE MENTALITY

OF CONSTANTLY BEING

PLUGGED IN AFFECTS

YOUR ABILITY TO ACTUALLY

CONNECT WHEN YOU’RE

CONNECTING.

alphaxidelta.org”


A SISTER’S MISSION

alphaxidelta.org 29

In December 2011, a beautiful, blonde-haired, blue-eyed baby girl named Lillian entered the world. She was proudly welcomed by her parents Sandra, Indiana ’00, and Neal Salerno, and big sister Vivian. Although this day was filled with the

happiness that new life brings, little did this new family of four know that in less than two years they would be faced with a decision to remove half of Lillian’s brain to save her life. Sandra’s pregnancy with Lillian was cut short at 36 weeks when she experienced a placental abruption and had to deliver the baby via an emergency C-section. At birth, everything appeared to be fine and the Salernos were sent home to begin the next chapter in their lives. At around six months, Sandra noticed that Lillian wasn’t meeting milestones, in particular the size of Lillian’s head. It was measuring small for her age, but they chalked it up to her being born four weeks early. It wasn’t until she started early intervention physical and occupational therapies that her limitations became noticeable.

THOUGH SHE MAY BE LITTLE,

SHE IS

Sandra Schiffli Salerno, Indiana ’00,

shares the story of why half of

her baby’s brain was removed.

fierce


At eight months old, Lillian was taken to a pediatric neurologist for MRI scans of her head. “We just knew looking right away that something wasn’t right because the right side of her brain was way smaller than the left side,” Sandra recalled in an interview with FoxNews.com. “And that’s when [the doctor] told us that Lillian had a condition called polymicrogyria, and that it encompassed 90 percent of the right side of the brain.” So, what is polymicrogyria? It’s a condition characterized by abnormal development of the brain before birth. The surface of the brain normally has many ridges or folds, called gyri. In people with polymicrogyria, the brain develops too many folds, and the folds are unusually small. It can cause neurological problems, epileptic seizures, developmental delays, vision loss and muscle weakness or paralysis. At the time of diagnosis, the doctors told Sandra and Neal that the condition could be genetic, but tests failed to find any genetic link. Sandra noticed that Lillian wasn’t looking over or responding to her when she talked on Lillian’s left side, so she decided to do some research. “I started Googling hearing loss and polymicrogyria, and what popped up was CMV – I had never heard of it before,” Sandra said. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common

infection that is usually harmless. Once CMV is in a person’s body, it stays there for life. Among every 100 adults in the United States, 50–80 are infected with CMV by the time they are 40 years old. Most healthy children and adults infected with CMV have no symptoms and may not even know that they have been infected. Others may develop a mild illness when they get infected and have the following symptoms: fever, sore throat, fatigue and swollen glands. But since these are also symptoms of other illnesses, most people don’t realize that they have been infected with CMV. Cytomegalovirus can also cause serious disease in babies who were infected with CMV before birth (referred to as congenital CMV infection). This means that in the United States, about 30,000 children are born with CMV each year. About 1 in 150 children is born with congenital CMV infection. And, about 1 of every 5 children born with congenital CMV infection will develop permanent problems (such as hearing loss or developmental disabilities) due to the infection. Infants and children who are infected with CMV after birth rarely have symptoms or problems. In the second trimester of her pregnancy with Lillian, Sandra got sick and was diagnosed with bronchitis and had to go through three different courses of antibiotics to rid her body of the infection. After doing her research, a light went off for Sandra, and she wondered if she may have had CMV.


Images from left to right: Lillian participates in several types of therapies, including aquatic therapy. Here she is with her therapist, Alyssa Zimmerman. | The Salerno family today. | Lillian two months after she had surgery to remove half her brain. | Lillian and her sister Vivian having fun playing with bubbles. Photo credit: Chris Domingue, The Photo Shop Texas

alphaxidelta.org 31

After discovering the link between CMV and hearing loss, Sandra took Lillian to her pediatrician for a hearing tests. After it was found Lillian had profound hearing loss, Sandra insisted Lillian also be tested for CMV infection. The results were positive. “For six months, we lived under the cloud of not knowing and thinking she was fine,” Sandra told FoxNews.com. “While we were at home with what we thought was a healthy child, this virus was just attacking her hearing and her brain.” After receiving positive CMV test results, the Salernos made an appointment with Dr. Gail Demmler-Harrison, an infectious disease specialist and CMV researcher at Texas Children’s Hospital, to determine if Lillian had acquired the infection before or after birth. Dr. Demmler-Harrison helped Sandra track down the blood spot taken for tests after Lillian was born. All newborn babies get screened for common conditions, and the tests go to the state labs to test for different diseases. Currently, CMV is not a disease that is tested with these blood spots. The two women had to appeal for the sample to be sent to the CDC for testing. The results of the CDC testing proved positive that Lillian’s CMV infection was congenital, which means the virus was passed onto Lillian in utero from Sandra.

“I don’t blame it on the doctors that were treating me. Maybe it’s not talked about enough,” said Sandra. “What really kind of upset me is there are in utero treatments that can be done on the pregnant mother–they’re not FDA approved or anything for that use–but they are used off label and have been known to help,” she noted in an interview with FoxNews.com. Lillian was started on antiviral medication immediately after receiving the positive CMV test results. “We started Lillian on antivirals that week in an effort to stop the CMV infection that was damaging our daughter’s brain and hearing. No one can say for certain, but I believe Dr. Gail saved our daughter from losing her hearing completely by getting us started so quickly. She is our hero for many reasons,” said Sandra. But, the journey was not over yet, as Lillian was still continuing to suffer from seizures. Just after her first birthday, in January 2013, Lillian had an appointment with Dr. Michael Quach, a pediatric neurologist at Texas Children’s Hospital where she underwent a 48-hour electroencephalography (EEG) so doctors could get a better understanding of why she was having so many seizures.



“After just an hour into our stay, Dr. Quach came in with his team to tell us more bad news. Our daughter had 25 seizures within that first hour and they needed to administer medications to stop the seizures,” recounts Sandra. Lillian was suffering from seizures at an alarming rate – up to 300 per day – while maxing out on three seizure medications per day at the young age of 18 months old. Dr. Quach, along with a multidisciplinary neurosurgery team at Texas Children’s Hospital, told the Salernos the only way to save their daughter would be to perform a radical brain operation called a hemispherectomy – an entire disconnection and partial removal of the right hemisphere of Lillian’s brain. She would have to live her life with half a brain or risk dying from seizures. In an article published by FoxNews.com, Dr. Quach explained that children’s brains have a great deal of plasticity. If you disconnect the side of the brain associated with language skills, the remaining functional hemisphere will pick up the slack, he noted. This is one of the reasons why doctors suggest radical hemispherectomies for young children in cases like Lillian’s. On August 8, 2013, the Salernos handed over their precious daughter into the hands and care of Dr. Daniel Curry and his team at Texas Children’s Hospital. During this nine-hour surgery, part of Lillian’s temporal lobe was removed to gain access to the fluid-filled ventricles in the center of the brain. Once inside the ventricles, doctors were able to expose the cables that connect one side of the brain to the other, and disconnect them. “Just ten days after the surgery, our daughter crawled across her hospital room, and the twitching and staring

spells were gone! I call what happened on surgery day a miracle, but I also know it was due to Texas Children’s Hospital, their world class facility and the teams of specialists who treated Lillian,” said Sandra.

THESUPPORTOFSISTERHOOD Aside from family and close friends, Sandra credits her Alpha Xi Delta Sisters as being some of the biggest cheerleaders for Lillian. “Some of the biggest supports have been women that I haven’t spoken to in awhile. Because we’re all the same age and a lot of us are having children, I have had several Sisters reach out to me letting me know they are talking to their doctors about CMV and getting screened,” said Sandra. The day of Lillian’s surgery everyone wore purple to show their support for the Salernos, a color associated with epilepsy awareness. “A ton of our supporters were members of Alpha Xi Delta, their friends and family. We received a ton of support messages, and it was really heartwarming,” recounts Sandra.

MARCHINGFORWARD Today, Lillian is three years old and doing fantastic. She regularly attends a Mother’s Day Out class where she is a member of a class with typically developing children. She is walking, running and learning to say a few words – things that wouldn’t have been possible without the removal of half of her brain. While Lillian continues to thrive post-surgery, Sandra has not given up her fight to educate others about the importance of CMV screening. She works with MaddiesMission.org and StopCMV.org. She filed a bill, along with a group of CMV moms, Dr. Gail Harrison and Senator Lois Kolkhorst, called Texas SB 791 and a companion bill, Texas HB 2174, in the House. The bill proposes the establishment of a CMV education and outreach program to raise awareness among health care providers, parents, pregnant women and women who may become pregnant, about congenital CMV (cCMV). The bill also proposes testing for cCMV of every infant who fails his or her first hearing screening. Hearing screenings are required already by Texas state law. “To go through what we’ve been through is heartbreaking, but imagine losing your child,” she said. “We’re the lucky ones.”

In early 2015, the Maddie’s Mission Team met with Senator Kolkhorst for consideration to sponsor CMV legislation. It was during this visit Senator Kolkhorst agreed to sponsor our bill. Left to right: Ann Blalock, Sandra Schiffli-Salerno, Lillian Grace Salerno, Becky Ghazi, Dr. Gail Demmler-Harrison, Senator Lois Kolkhorst, Farah Armstrong and Jenny Bailey.

alphaxidelta.org 33

WHATYOUSHOULDKNOWABOUTCMV According to the CDC, CMV is the most common congenital (meaning from birth) viral infection in the United States, with 1 in 150 children being born with congenital CMV. More children will have disabilities due to congenital CMV than other well-known infections and syndromes, including Down Syndrome, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, Spina Bifida and Pediatric HIV/AIDS. The good news is, CMV infection is potentially preventable. CMV is present in saliva, urine, tears, blood, mucus and other bodily fluids. Frequent hand washing with soap and water is important after contact with diapers or oral secretions. For pregnant women, this is especially important if they are around a child who is in daycare, playgroup, or interacting with other young children on a regular basis. Here are a few simple ways to avoid exposure:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for 15-20 seconds, especially after changing diapers, feeding a young child, wiping a young child’s nose or drool and handling children’s toys

• Do not share food, drinks or eating utensils used by young children

• Don’t kiss a child less than 6 years of age on the lips or cheek. Instead, kiss them on the top of the head and give them a big, long hug.

There are tests available to pregnant women to determine if they have had CMV. Talk to your healthcare provider to obtain more information. For additional information about CMV, visit www.cdc.gov/cmv/index.html.

“To go through what we’ve been through is heartbreaking, but imagine losing your child, we’re the lucky ones.”


MEMBER NEWS

EAST TENNESSEE STATE

The Gamma Theta Chapter at East Tennessee State University placed first at

blue and gold days during Homecoming and placed third in the canned food

creations event. All of the canned foods were donated to a local food bank. In

addition, the chapter volunteered with the local Boys and Girls Club.

- Charlotte Hudnall, [email protected]

UNC ASHEVILLEThe Zeta Tau Chapter at the University of North

Carolina at Asheville successfully hosted an AmaXIng

Challenge: Karaoke for a Cause, raising more than

$1,200 for Autism Speaks. With a panel of three

volunteer judges, many performances ended with a

standing applause, especially the three performances

of the winning participant, Victoria Byrd. Victoria, a

student at UNCA, not only made additional donations

to Autism Speaks, but wowed every person in the

crowd and the judges with her outstanding vocal

abilities. - Scottie Hill, [email protected]

HARTFORDApproximately 30 Sisters from the Epsilon Nu Chapter at the University of Hartford

held a reunion in Farmington, Connecticut, where they had the chance to visit

campus, meet the current chapter women and reminisce about the “old days”. It had

been more than 25 years since some of them had seen each other, with the reunion

consisting mostly of women who were initiated in the 80s and early 90s.

The gathering was organized by Jodi Harmon Kenney, Hartford ’88.

- Beth Rosenberg Sanders, [email protected]

WESTERN MICHIGANAnna Duemler, Keelin Guerin and Lauren

Montague show off rose covered letters the

Theta Eta Chapter at Western Michigan

University created for recruitment.

- Keelin Guerin, [email protected]

alphaxidelta.org 35

IDAHO STATE

The Iota Kappa Chapter at Idaho State University held a “Xi’s

Around the World” event for their alumnae Sisters. Every

semester, the chapter throws an event in honor of alumnae

chapter members. The “Xi’s Around the World” event

featured food from different countries and activities such as

trivia pertaining to country’s flags. The event ended with a

chopstick relay race with marshmallows, which provided a

fun opportunity to bond with Sisters and build teamwork.

- Kevallyn Drake, [email protected]

ST. LOUISThe St. Louis Alumnae Association hosted their annual

Holiday Cookie Exchange in December at the Epsilon Xi

Chapter House where alumnae of all ages and from

multiple chapters gathered to share some holiday cheer.

If you’re interested in learning more about the St. Louis

Alumnae Association, email [email protected].

UNC WILMINGTONThe University of North Carolina Wilmington’s

Zeta Chi Chapter hosted a dessert competition as

a fun event for Sisters to mingle with potential new

members. Sierra Wagner and McKenna Nelson won

first place in the competition and Jordan Hall, Sara

Jones and Kaitlyn Knight (pictured left to right) won

second place. A celebration erupted at this event

when Chapter President Tia McNair announced

the chapter had the highest GPA on campus!

- McKenna Nelson, [email protected]

PITTSBURGHThe Pittsburgh Alumnae Association hosted its annual holiday brunch for

collegiate and alumnae Sisters at the home of Rose Kunkel Roarty, Ohio ’46.

Mrs. Kunkel Roarty has hosted the brunch at her home for close to 65

consecutive years! - Paula Schmeck, [email protected]


MEMBER NEWS

CORNELLThe Alpha Beta Chapter at Cornell University welcomed home new members during a “Let

It Be Alpha Xi” themed bid day celebration. Pictured left to right are new members Kate

Carmichael and Brittany Ward. - Nicole Golias, [email protected]

PENN STATEShanna Mason, Penn State ’12, and Callie

Clasby, Penn State ’13, take a break at Kicks

for a Cause, a philanthropy soccer tournament

where fraternities form teams to play each other

and Sisters serve as their coaches. The event

raised nearly $785 for Autism Speaks.

- Mary Duggan, [email protected]

CHICAGO NORTHWEST

The Chicago Northwest Suburban Alumnae Association enjoyed

appetizers and desserts at a winter meeting. Sisters had fun

playing Alpha Xi Delta trivia, decorating ornaments and making

scarves for their adopted chapter. -Deb Keyes, [email protected]

NEW ORLEANSSisters of the Delta Epsilon Chapter at the University

of New Orleans volunteered at Central Bark in New

Orleans with Save-An-Angel, an organization that sells

reorganized Mardi Gras beads to help dogs with cancer.

Pictured from left to right are Meara McNitt, Kalie Emma

and Meagan Riche. - Meara McNitt, [email protected]

alphaxidelta.org 37

CAL STATE STANISLAUSSisters from the Iota Beta Chapter at California State University

Stanislaus participated in the Walk Now for Autism Speaks event. From

left to right: Tanya Keys, Malia Salas, Marisa Rodriguez and Amari

Brewster. - Amari Brewster, [email protected]

WASHINGTONThe Nu Chapter at the University of Washington welcomed

home 40 new members at a “Saving Xi Best” themed bid day

celebration. - Kim Benzin, [email protected]

PIKES PEAKThe Pikes Peak Alumnae Association hosted a pot luck brunch that was filled with fun and

laughter as most Sisters arrived in unusual hats! Those who failed to go by the suggested

hat theme were given a special hat to wear, such as a shark, clown, hair curlers and other

silly hats that placed them in the hall of shame! The best part of the day was helping Jean

Swartzendruber, Syracuse ’45, celebrate her 88th birthday and gathering in the beautiful

garden at the home of Deb Grandia, Northern Colorado ’68, for a group photo. Pictured

from left to right, front row: Jean Swartzendruber, Sandy Zautcke, Jeannette Bruce, Gina

Esposito, Joleen Poe, June Hallenbeck, Gini Simonson, Victoria Hank, Ann Hall and Deb

Grandia. Back row: Stacy Butler, Carol Gugat, Georgina Schreiner, Lynn Hanford, Fran

Dudenhoeffer, Dareleen Schaffer, Sue Bigus, Lori Langin, Sami Sample and Natalie Brown.

EASTERN WASHINGTONNicole Branstetter (pictured), Eastern Washington ’11, and Madison Azim, Eastern Washington ’12, worked with Panhellenic and

other campus organizations to collect more

than 80 bras to donate to women in need

through the non-profit organization, Breast

Intentions. - Tansy Schroeder,

[email protected]


MEMBER NEWS

TOWSON

Sisters at Towson University participated in a Coaches Powering Forward

for Autism event in February. Alpha Xi Deltas volunteered to face paint and

pass out information about autism to game attendees while showcasing our

partnership with Autism Speaks. – Lydia Ramsey, [email protected]

KENT STATEThe Beta Tau Chapter at Kent State University held their annual Xi Man event this past fall, a philanthropy fundraising event where sororities

and fraternities perform skits and dances that incorporate facts about Autism Speaks. The theme for this Xi Man was “A, B, Xi’s”. Each

organization was assigned a letter and could do any topic under that letter. Some groups chose topics such as Disney’s “Up”, Vegas themed

or “Sesame Street.” Along with the skits, each organization chose a “Xi Man” to answer questions about autism. The chapter’s fundrasing

goal was $36,000; however, the grand total of the night was $53,128.27 raised for Autism Speaks! - Kasey Carrender, [email protected]

WEST VIRGINIALucky Lucente, West Virginia ’12, holds up

signs to raise autism awareness at the Iota

Chapter’s 5K for Autism Speaks event.

The chapter raised more than $10,000

for Autism Speaks!

alphaxidelta.org 39

WEST GEORGIAThe Zeta Omega Chapter at the University of West

Georgia hosted Football FrenXI, a philanthropy football

tournament. The chapter grilled out and cheered on teams

while members from the University and community

played in the tournament. Overall, the event raised

$2,000 for Autism Speaks. - Olivia Albanese,

[email protected]

GEORGIA TECH

Actor Scott Eastwood, Actress Britt Robertson and Author Nicholas Sparks stopped by the Gamma Eta Chapter

house while doing press for their new movie, “The Longest Ride”! – Kaitlin Johnson, [email protected]

NEVADA-LAS VEGASFrom left to right: Kiera Neilson, Ashley Allen and Sierra Hickey

represented Alpha Xi Delta, along with other members of the Iota Epsilon

Chapter, at a Walk Now for Autism Speaks event. - Tiffanie Schaeffer,

[email protected]


MARYLANDBeta Eta Chapter at the University of Maryland

held Xiti with the Xis, a fundraiser for Autism

Speaks. At Xiti, more than $6,000 was raised

for Autism Speaks! - Rachael Grant,

[email protected]

OLD DOMINIONThe Delta Mu Chapter at Old Dominion University volunteered at the National Walk Now for Autism Speaks event held in Washington,

D.C. on October 5, 2014. Sisters had fun as they chanted, clapped and encouraged Walk participants at the finish line. - Harley A. Russell,

[email protected]

ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAMThe Theta Phi Chapter at the University of Alabama at Birmingham hosted the

Annual Walk Now for Autism Speaks even on November 1, 2014, in Hoover,

Alabama. More than 400 people, and as many as 55 teams, were in attendance.

At this event, more than $40,000 was raised, with $29,000 of that total being

raised by Theta Phi Chapter. Sisters also volunteered at registration and hosted

activities for the children at the event. - Jordan Cornelius, [email protected]

LYCOMINGSisters at Lycoming College held many events to raise money for Autism Speaks

this past semester, with their largest event, Baked Xiti, that raised more than

$600. In total, the chapter has raised more than $1,200 for Autism Speaks.

- Alysha Ardell, [email protected]

MEMBER NEWS

Be sure to check out our blog at

theinsideink.org, or our Facebook page to see more photos

and stories!

alphaxidelta.org 41

Left: Max proudly displays the book he wrote, “Hello, My Name is Max and I Have Autism”.

Right: (Left to right): Barbara Hoover, Philanthropy Chair for the Denver Alumnae Association, Jessica Ross, Autism Speaks Representative, Max Miller and his mother Rebecca Miller during the Denver Alumnae Association’s annual philanthropy meeting.

The Denver Alumnae Association of Alpha Xi Delta

held its annual philanthropy meeting where the group

was treated to a young guest speaker.

Max Miller is a 12 year old boy with autism who

spoke to the group about the importance of their support

of Autism Speaks. Young Max was diagnosed at the

age of five and did not speak until he was six. Through

interventions and therapies, Max learned how to read by

the age of 10. Max recalled how difficult it was for him

during those early years. He used art to communicate

with his mother and decided to write a book about

having autism. Max compiled his art and essays into

book form and the result is “Hello, My Name is Max and

I Have Autism”. His intention is to educate others about

what it is like to have autism through his perspective

and elicit compassion for kids with autism spectrum

disorders (ASD).

Max brought his original art to the meeting and

answered questions about what it was like to have

autism. His mother, Rebecca Miller was present and

reaffirmed the importance of organizations such as

Autism Speaks and the good they provide to families

affected by autism. Max was gifted a tablet by Autism

Speaks and the local representative, Jessica Ross, has

provided unwavering support for Max’s book and

presentations.

Children like Max exemplify the need for continued

support of organizations like Autism Speaks. Families

like the Millers benefit from Autism Speaks in ways

that may seem intangible. Autism Speaks has been

instrumental in helping children like Max be covered by

insurance so they can have access to Applied Behavior

Analysis (ABA) therapies that are crucial in helping

children like Max.

Max Miller is a success story. It was recommended to

his mother that she institutionalize Max. She refused. It

took some time but she finally found a program for Max

at Eagleview Elementary. The interventions provided

by his ASD program helped this young man become a

thriving public speaker, artist and self-advocate.

Max’s book is available for fundraising purposes. Contact Jessica Ross at [email protected] for more information. You can read more about this inspirational young man on the Autism Speaks website at http://bit.ly/maxmiller. - Submitted by Barbara Stover, [email protected]

Max Millerspeaks to Alpha Xi Delta

By Rebecca Miller


WORLD AUTISM AWARENESS DAY RECAP

1

3

4 5

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alphaxidelta.org 43

Coming Soon! ALPHA XI DELTA ALUMNAE SURVEY

As an alumna member, your feedback will assist in enhancing the alumnae experience of bold and talented Alpha Xi Delta women for years to come. From June 10 - July 14, we will be conducting a survey open to all Alpha Xi Delta alumnae members. We will launch the survey by sending it via email to all alumnae in good standing with the Fraternity who have a valid email address on file. We encourage you to reach out to your Sisters to make sure they have their information updated in Exclusively Xi, so that we can reach as many Sisters as possible. In appreciation of your participation, five $100 Amazon.com gift cards will be awarded at random after the survey is complete.

To participate in the survey, starting June 10:1) Respond to the email. If we have your current email address on file, you will receive an email invitation to participate in the survey. You will be able to access the survey from the email.

2) Visit www.alphaxidelta.org and click the survey link under the Members section.

3) Call Alpha Xi Delta Fraternity Headquarters from June 10 – June 24 if you’re unable to access the internet, and a staff member will assist you in completing the survey. Call 317.852.3500 between 9:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M. Eastern time, Monday – Friday. Please indicate you’d like to complete the alumnae survey.

The survey will be open from June 10 – July 14, 2015. Thank you in advance for your valuable feedback.

1. Elysia Gallivan, Alpha Xi Delta’s National Executive Director, helped close the trading floor of the New York City Stock Exchange by striking the gavel.

2. Alpha Xi Deltas at “The Today Show” on April 2, 2015.

3. Members of Epsilon Lambda Chapter at Rider University, Iota Nu Chapter at Monmouth University, Zeta Eta Chapter at West Chester University, The College of New Jersey Colony and Alpha Xi Delta staff celebrated World Autism Awareness Day in New York City.

4. Left to right: Lindsay Eichelman, Director of Events and Administration for Alpha Xi Delta, Elysia Gallivan, Jaclyn Renner, Albany ‘06, and Maeve MacKenzie, Syracuse ‘05. Renner and MacKenzie work for Autism Speaks in the New York City office.

5. Left to right: Lindsay Eichelman, Elysia Gallivan and Liz Feld, President of Autism Speaks at the Empire State Building lighting ceremony in honor of Light It Up Blue.


CHAPTER ETERNAL

The spring 2015 Chapter Eternal includes all the names of Sisters whose passing

was reported to Fraternity Headquarters between September 1, 2014 and January 31, 2015. Sisters are

listed alphabetically in chapter order, along with their initiation year. To notify the Fraternity of a Sister’s

passing, please send an obituary, memorial service pamphlet or other written confirmation to Alpha Xi Delta

Fraternity Headquarters.

Alpha ChapterLombard/Knox CollegeJuanita Erickson Bassi ’45Mary Switzer Wolf ’36

Beta Chapter Iowa Wesleyan CollegeMildred Gross Berger ’36

Gamma ChapterUniversity of Mount UnionCarolyn Dimit Couchie ’45Joanne Williams Rood ’52Lillian Addicott Sell ’40Martha Blum Strauch ’40

Epsilon Chapter University of South DakotaBarbara Brisbine ’66Mindy Rumbolz ’03Betty Brooks Thal ’42

Zeta Chapter Wittenberg UniversityBarbara Wolfe Culler ’46Joan Warth Doering ’50Deborah Duncan Jenkins ’83

Eta Chapter Syracuse UniversityMarilyn Allen ’53Margaret Roblin Elam ’46Patricia Yellen Finkelstein ’64

Theta Chapter University of WisconsinJanice Livermore Hayes ’48Sheila Maloney Kammer ’55

Iota Chapter West Virginia UniversityJane Silliman Anderson ’50Adelaide Thieroff Luchetti ’50Ann McMillion Wood ’38

Kappa Chapter University of IllinoisElizabeth Barber Davis ’41

Mu Chapter University of MinnesotaRosemary Borchert ’44Esther Peterson Henk ’20Ardelle Wessberg Negard ’48Florence Gorman Sedlack ’21

Nu Chapter University of WashingtonGail Rasmussen Green ’49

Xi ChapterUniversity of KentuckyJudith Ann Kelley Dolt ’58Michaelene Bogan Garbo ’41

Omicron Chapter University of California-BerkeleyBetty Jo Phillips Hallock ’53

Pi Chapter Ohio UniversityDoris Brunn Francis ’48Betty Geiler Porter ’42Marynelle Aumann Shields ’44

Rho Chapter University of Nebraska-LincolnDorothy Anderson ’41Priscilla Campsey Finnell ’39Margery DeLamatre Sorenson ’51

Sigma ChapterUniversity of IowaCatherine Harmeier Boylen ’41Donese Waterman Putnam ’45

Tau ChapterUniversity of New HampshireMeredith Brown Pearlstein ’64

Hale Crosby Thornton ’40Clara Knight Turner ’41Jo Ann Rydin Wolcott ’48

Phi ChapterAlbion CollegeMarjorie Mizener Curtis ’43Mariel Smale Lockyer ’45Sally Walker Schaefer ’48

Psi ChapterThe Ohio State UniversityJoan Kellough Mitchell ’50Carol Clouse Wagner ’59

Alpha Gamma ChapterCoe CollegeMary Martin Bickett ’29

Alpha Delta ChapterOregon State UniversityHelen Ward Kyle ’57Millicent Evenden Olson ’44

Alpha Epsilon ChapterUniversity of MichiganGrace Jones Lantis ’37Nancy Taylor Smith ’49

Alpha Eta ChapterPurdue UniversityBarbara Compton Brown ’45Ruth Krueger Maertz ’48

Alpha Theta ChapterNorthwestern UniversityMerilyn Kohout Farrar ’44

Alpha Lambda ChapterUniversity of OregonBlanche Gustavson Crook ’38Nadine Robertson Rockwood ’45

Alpha Mu ChapterOhio Wesleyan UniversityFrances Wilcke Erskine ’39Katharine Perkins Lorenz ’49Mary Ann Tomlinson Pretzinger ’51Margaret Diehl Robinson ’43Carol Minta Edmunds Stohrer ’53

Alpha Omicron ChapterHunter CollegeRuth Pahler Pretat ’48

Alpha Rho ChapterAllegheny CollegeElizabeth Carol Brady Dougherty ’36

Alpha Phi ChapterUniversity of PennsylvaniaHelen Williams Stevens ’45

Alpha Chi ChapterRandolph-Macon CollegeDorothy Coddington Kouri ’35

Alpha Omega ChapterFlorida State University Juanita Purchase Brown ’37Helen Linnemeier Watson ’31

Beta Beta ChapterWashington University Margaret Trowbridge Conner ’43Mary Geisler Walsh ’35

Beta Gamma ChapterCentenary College of LouisianaDella Marie Owens Burris ’46Jewell Bridges Hobson ’54Helen Jennings Sproull ’42

alphaxidelta.org 45

Beta Eta ChapterUniversity of Maryland Mary Jent Byrne ’53Myra Wallace Murphy ’48Carolyn King Scudder ’47

Beta Theta ChapterMichigan State University Anita Basso Allen ’46Mary Makedonsky Clark ’58

Beta Kappa ChapterBaldwin Wallace UniversityMildred Brotz Cook ’42Ruth Froehlich ’41

Beta Lambda ChapterPennsylvania State UniversityFrances Reist Bush ’42Helen Herr ’44Anna Kozusko Kuhn ’89Barbara Cooper Sowter ’42Joan Maher Wood ’54

Beta Mu ChapterBowling Green State UniversityBeth Branyan Baughman ’68Diane Brigger Gregorc ’58Betty Toy Hopkins ’43Nancy Chase Johnson ’58

Beta Nu ChapterCulver Stockton CollegeCharlotte Deiling Hilmer ’43Helen Richter Jones ’50

Beta Pi ChapterIndiana University Joan Ewing ’51Joanne Bondurant Raihala ’53Virginia Kindig Simons ’48

Beta Tau ChapterKent State UniversityAvis Jeananne Pinney Haynam ’49

Beta Phi ChapterUniversity of ConnecticutMyrtle Bruce ’49

Beta Psi ChapterCarroll UniversityHelen Converse Janquart ’57

Beta Omega ChapterMemphis State UniversityBarbara Matheson Wilson ’55

Gamma Beta ChapterMarshall UniversityMartha Hartley Randolph ’71

Gamma Delta ChapterUniversity of Nebraska at OmahaJoan Palladino Anderson ’53Helen Howell ’52

Gamma Epsilon ChapterCalifornia State University – FresnoDorothy Jane Bolt Fox ’65Laurie Best Marks ’75

Gamma Zeta ChapterEastern Michigan UniversityJudith McKitrick Allard ’57Lynn Weinert Dittmar ’54Jeanne Morgan Swihart ’55

Gamma Tau ChapterOhio Northern UniversitySheyl Joann Sidles Downey ’76Dorothea Hays Hartong ’63

Gamma Psi ChapterFrostburg State UniversityJean Hansen Cranmer ’72Eileen Llewellyn Diffenderfer ’65

Delta Theta ChapterSt. Cloud State UniversityLaurie Wallak Stillwell ’74

Delta Kappa ChapterSlippery Rocky UniversityMary Susan Judson McConnell ’64

Delta Xi ChapterGeorgia State UniversityGloria Newman Culbertson ’70Karen Kephart Hallberg ’81

Delta Pi ChapterDefiance CollegeCarol McKenna ’67

Epsilon Gamma ChapterWestern Carolina UniversityEllen Wheeler Boyd ’67

Epsilon Delta ChapterIndiana State UniversityMary Seprodi Neal ’76

Epsilon Eta ChapterSouth Dakota State UniversityAlyce Hellstrom Marcovich ’73

Epsilon Theta ChapterWest Liberty UniversityMary Voellinger Rice ’66

Epsilon Iota ChapterNewberry CollegeAnne Perreyclear ’73

Epsilon Mu ChapterUniversity of Northern ColoradoKathy Mitchell ’76

Epsilon Pi ChapterJacksonville State UniversityJanet Atkinson Powell ’69Lorna Stewart Usrey ’86

Alpha Deuteron ChapterJohannah King Bell ’88

46

of Alpha Xi Delta by paying your national alumnae dues!

Your yearly payment of $20 will go into the “Be The

Heart” fund of Alpha Xi Delta and go towards:• Alumnae programming, support

and cultivation

• Special alumnae events and campaigns (including alumnae receptions, young alumnae events, etc.)

• Supporting volunteer education and development

• Rose Petals Program for Alpha Xi Delta legacies

• Alumnae awards and recognitions

be the heart

Members like you make it possible for Sisters to realize their potential. Pay your dues online at www.alphaxidelta.org/AlumnaeDues.

If you currently pay your annual National Alumnae Dues through an organized Alpha Xi Delta alumnae association, you may continue to do so and do not need to pay online. Thank you for your commitment to Alpha Xi Delta.

alphaxidelta.org 47

from the archives

FROM THE ARCHIVES

from the archivesOriginally published in the November 1953 issue of The Quill, Sisters from the Alpha Xi Chapter

at UCLA modeled bathing suits from across the decades at the 23rd National Convention, held

in Pasadena, California. With Nancy Gulick at the microphone are (left to right) Gwen Yentis, Sondra

Darnell, Dorothy Rietkirk, Lorraine Zanotti, Diane Wilson, Joy Myers, Mary Marvin, Alice Jones,

Shirley Bach, Marlys Thiel, Gini Miller and Barbara Mullen.


FOUNDATION NEWS \ Memorial Gifts

MEMORIAL GIFTSThe Alpha Xi Delta Foundation recognizes Memorial Gifts from September 1, 2014 through December 31, 2014.

Linda Hall Altmann, West Virginia Wesleyan Collegeby Carolyn Saxton, West Virginia Wesleyan College

Maria Anello by Francesca Panorese, University of New Hampshire

Mary Elizabeth Bargman by Melinda Ruffing Stone Schoenwald, Ohio Wesleyan University

Maxine Evans Blackburn, Wittenberg Universityby Sara Pullis Molnar, Ferris State University

Ruth Fowler Brown, Ohio Universityby Giles Memorial Foundation

Donna Rigg Buffington, University of Nebraska at Omahaby Betty Fideler Dale, University of South Dakota, Dianne Ensign Ziegler, Purdue University

Nancy Berry Collard, University of Southern Maineby Suzanne LaCroix, University of Southern Maine

Blanche Gustavson Crook, University of Oregonby Maryella Velguth Tierney, University of Oregon

Jennifer DeVito, sister of Jacqueline DeVitoby Jacqueline DeVito, University at Albany

Evelyn Gibbs Dice, Northwestern Universityby Suzanne Mitton Petru, Northwestern University

Peggy Martin Dorsey, West Virginia Wesleyan Collegeby Mary Dorsey Taylor, West Virginia Wesleyan College

Sheryl Sidles Downey, Ohio Northern Universityby Teri Wynn Okrutny, Ohio Northern University

Joan Ewing, Indiana University by Ruth Lindenberg Heywood, Indiana University

Barbara Gaston Fellows, West Virginia Wesleyan Collegeby Shirley Kincaid Walker, West Virginia Wesleyan College

Kitty Brunn Francis, Ohio Universityby Atlanta-North Metro, GA Alumnae Association

Marjorie Morrison Friel, University of California-Los Angelesby Nancy Christy MacReynolds, University of California-Los Angeles

Tracy Goodwalter by Christina Munck O’Hara, Hillsdale College

Nancy Wilhite Haldrup, Northwestern Universityby Barbara LaDage Robinson, Northwestern University

Carol Petersen Hall, Northern Illinois Universityby Anita Petersen Drake, Northern Illinois University

Helen Richter Jones, Culver Stockton Collegeby Robert Jones, husband of Helen Richter Jones

Anna Kozusko Kuhn, Pennsylvania State Universityby Becky Amos-Stuart, University of Washington, Linda Lutz Dettmer, Baldwin Wallace University, Michelle Soderquist Hartnett, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Helen Steinich LeBarron, University of Wisconsin-Madisonby Norma Malmanger Liebenberg, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Sara Pullis Molnar, Ferris State University

Ruby Atkinson Leonard, Oregon State Universityby Janet Leonard Baillie, Oregon State University

Dorothy Van Valkenburg Lewis, Stetson Universityby Mary Lewis Pierson, Northwestern University

Jennie Morgan Lombard, University of Michiganby Judy Sellevold LaBreche, University of Michigan, Barbara Libs Murray, University of Michigan

Winifred Mackil by Patricia Mackil Larson, Kent State University

Andrew Macrina, son of Catherine Cahill Macrina by Catherine Cahill Macrina, West Chester University

Isabel Pickett Marshall, Monmouth Collegeby KJ Witty, Marquette University

John McClaflin, husband of B.J. Hall McClaflin, University of Denver by Betty Fideler Dale, University of South Dakota

Shirley Clements Mewborn, Georgia Institute of Technologyby Jessie Knowlson Somoza, Georgia Institute of Technology

Sandra Zita Mohall, University of Pittsburgh at Johnstownby Rick Mohall, husband of Sandra Zita Mohall

Jane Morley, mother of Laura Morley Zuidemaby Laura Morley Zuidema, Alma College

Mary Burt Brooks Nash, Northwestern Universityby Mary Lou Milam Entzminger, University of Charleston

Carol R. Peterson by Trudy Portewig, Florida State University

Loma Bowers Proctor, University of Denverby Betty Fideler Dale, University of South Dakota

James Redman, husband of Jean Crawford Redman by Jean Crawford Redman, Purdue University

Lynn Ledwitch Reid, Georgia Institute of Technologyby Cindy Nora Hart, Georgia Institute of Technology, Laurie Osborne, Georgia Institute of Technology, Kim Pace Noonan, Georgia Institute of Technology

Catherine Mason Reynolds, University of Southern Maineby Suzanne LaCroix, University of Southern Maine

Laurie Best Rodrigues, California State University, Fresnoby Elizabeth Eberle Payette, California State University, Fresno, Margie Stolshek McIntyre, California State University, Fresno

Nancy Rugh, Monmouth Collegeby Susan Barrett Boelke, Monmouth College

Suellyn Matevia Sekulich, Michigan State Universityby Judith Anderson Honhart, Michigan State University

Betty Frost Simpson, Oregon State Universityby Julie Lambert, Oregon State University

Kelly Sizer, Thiel Collegeby Monica Anderson, Thiel College

Carol Jean Smith, Jacksonville State Universityby Sara Pullis Molnar, Ferris State University

Martha Davies Stone, Randolph-Macon Collegeby Jane Stone, Ohio Wesleyan University

Mary Falvey Stuedle, mother of Kristin Stuedle by Kristin Stuedle, Western Kentucky University

Barbara Tatar, sister of Betty Tatar Wiseman by Betty Tatar Wiseman, Central Michigan University

Jane Terveer, The Ohio State Universityby Ellen Dettra Kunst, The Ohio State University

Dennis Thomas, husband of Dawn Haines Thomas, Frostburg State Universityby Pam Gardiner Enger, Frostburg State University

alphaxidelta.org 49

Marilyn Sloan Thompson, The Ohio State Universityby Carol Morgan Smerz, Defiance College, Jean Walter Mahan, The Ohio State University

Babette Sellhausen Trader, University of Maryland by Christine Burris, daughter of Babette Sellhausen Trader, Diane Trader, daughter of Babette Sellhausen Trader

Joan Turner, University of Charlestonby Cathy Kawash Leikhim, University of Charleston

Pamela Walz, daughter of Ada Walzby Ada Wold Walz, Denison University

Joanne Mateer Weaver-Stroh, University of Pennsylvaniaby Nancy Frank Offner, University of Pennsylvania

Cathy Brady Weston, Eastern Michigan Universityby Joy Morrison Farmer, Eastern Michigan University

HONOR GIFTSTheAlphaXiDeltaFoundationrecognizesHonorGiftsgivenfromSeptember1,2014toDecember31,2014.

All my Sisters who know someone with Autism by Sophie Chen, American University

Alpha Xi Chapterby Patricia Dillon Clegg, University of California-Los Angeles

Alpha Kappa ChapterBecky Anderson Wiseman, Kansas State University

Lyannet Alvarez, University of Nevada-Las Vegasby Omega Financial, Inc.

Mollie Dunn Arthur, University of Northern Coloradoby Judith Eichberger Bender, University of Northern Colorado

Autism Speaks by Betty Darnell Nelson, Knox College

Jenny Awrey, University of Washingtonby Megan Horst Foster, Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Pam McCormick Barkman, Baldwin Wallace Universityby Kelly Jones, University of Central Florida

Alessandra Barletta, University of New Hampshireby Melanie Holwood, West Chester University

Katie Beermann, Sonoma State Universityby Renee Beermann, mother of Katie Beermann

Beta Psi Chapter by Hannah Emerson, Carroll University

Wendy Block by Jessica Block, Pennsylvania State University

Janet Garmhausen Bock, The Ohio State Universityby Jane Stone, Ohio Wesleyan University

Jill Foster Bortel, Defiance Collegeby Jan Colton Belka, Slippery Rock University

Jen Brady, University of Nebraska at Omahaby Maggie Koenig, University of Nebraska at Omaha

Denise Brown, University of Northern Iowaby Kim Starr, University of Kentucky

Emily Burns, Wright State Universityby Omega Financial, Inc.

Ginny Carroll, Western Kentucky Universityby Marisa Walden Lacey, Texas State University-San Marcos

Kelsey Carter, Western Kentucky Universityby Omega Financial, Inc.

Jackie Celeste, University of Marylandby Debbie Caseley, mother of Jackie Celeste

Mabry Cheshire, cousin of Lezlie McKenzieby Lezlie McKenzie, Georgia Institute of Technology

Children with Autism by Elva Dughi Byrne, University of California-Berkeley

Virginia Clyde, University of Arizonaby Margaret Payne Greene, Stetson University

Natalia Crowe, cousin of Lezlie McKenzieby Lezlie McKenzie, Georgia Institute of Technology

Maggie DiCesare, DePaul Universityby Julie Wilson Dillon, University of Illinois

Karolyn Bardin Diefenbach, Florida State Universityby Kyle Robb, Pennsylvania State University

Susan Harvey Dingle, Albion Collegeby Jane Stone, Ohio Wesleyan University

Susan Kuhn Dunlap, Bethany Collegeby Jane Stone, Ohio Wesleyan University

Kristen Ellefson Elgie, University of Texas at Austinby Sue Eicher Mamber, Kent State University

Travis England, brother of Brittany Englandby Brittany England, Wright State University

Lindsay Finniss, University of New Hampshireby Melanie Holwood, West Chester University

Betty Shetler Frank, The Ohio State Universityby Sue Cooper Kirschner, The Ohio State University

Ashley Frederick, Stetson Universityby Omega Financial, Inc.

Theresa Furman by Madalyn Grutzius, George Mason University

Paige Gallagher, Southeast Missouri State Universityby Donna Gallagher, mother of Paige Gallagher

Gamma Psi Chapterby Mary Comer Martirano, Frostburg State University

Gamma Eta Chapterby Janice Nease Wittschiebe, Georgia Institute of Technology

Gamma Eta Pledge Class of 1974 by Elizabeth Doyle Wright, Georgia Institute of Technology

Lila Goble, great aunt of Paige Tanakaby Paige Tanaka, Georgia State University

Jenna Guy, University of Northern Iowaby Omega Financial, Inc.

Nancy Watson Harvey, Iowa Wesleyan Collegeby Shelley Wilmes Grider, Iowa Wesleyan College

Diane Hastings, University of Missouri-St. Louisby Omega Financial, Inc.

Alyssa Holland, University of New Hampshireby Melanie Holwood, West Chester University

Lauren Howell, University of New Hampshireby Melanie Holwood, West Chester University

Karen Smith Hughes, Georgia Institute of Technologyby Cynthia Smith King, Georgia Institute of Technology

Torrie Hutchison, mother of Jessica Hutchisonby Jessica Hutchison, University of Illinois

Iota Chapter by Joanne Walker Bowie, West Virginia University

Jen Irwin, Georgia Institute of Technologyby Joe Irwin, father of Jen Irwin

Barbara Reitsma Johnson, Florida State Universityby Joan Reitsma, Florida State University

Tiffany Keenan, University of New Hampshireby Melanie Holwood, West Chester University


FOUNDATION NEWS \ Honor Gifts

Elfriede Thiele Kelso, Hunter Collegeby Virginia Drick Messing, Ohio Wesleyan University

Darren Kenner, father of Abby Kennerby Abby Kenner, Ohio University

Millie Kotlan Kolar, Marietta Collegeby Susanne Gettings Ray, Marietta College

Jennifer Emerick Kuntz, University of Northern Iowaby Jamee Maurer Klein, University of Northern Iowa

Julie Lambert, Oregon State Universityby Christine Nilsen Marciano, Oregon State University

Alvan & Carol Lampke by Miranda Lampke, University of North Carolina-Asheville

Marijon Chandler Lococo, University of Kentuckyby Sandi Edwards, University of Kentucky

Tonia Mannschreck, mother of Ellen Mannschreckby Ellen Mannschreck, University of Nebraska Kearney

Chelsea Marcantonio, University of Southern Maineby Meilin Brodeur, University of Southern Maine

Brittany Marien, University of New Hampshireby Melanie Holwood, West Chester University

Kelsi Martin, Bowling Green State Universityby Omega Financial, Inc.

Claudia Martinez, Syracuse Universityby Ricardo & Gloria Martinez, parents of Claudia Martinez

Olivia Mathison, Henderson State Universityby Heather Lowe, Henderson State University

Sharon McCone, Henderson State Universityby Kristie Fox Johnson, Henderson State University

Anna Minmier, University of Texas at Austinby Omega Financial, Inc.

Abby Moriarty, University of New Hampshireby Melanie Holwood, West Chester University

Ally Morrison, George Mason Universityby Melanie Holwood, West Chester University

Sandra Mullen, mother of Caitlin Mullenby Caitlin Mullen, Youngstown State University

Samantha Nagy, Rider Universityby Stephen Nagy, father of Samantha Nagy

John Neff, father of Morgan Neffby Morgan Neff, Kent State University

Kaylee Noon, University of Central Floridaby Megan Lawrence, University of Central Florida

Danica Vanasse Olson, Marquette Universityby Jean Koza Leider, University of Iowa

Outgoing Iota Rho Execuctive Board by Julie Wilson Dillon, University of Illinois

Wilma Peterson by Taylor Watkins, Oklahoma State University

Sally Russum Pleasants, University of Nebraska at Omahaby Margaret Payne Greene, Stetson University

Jane Fursey Ralston, University of Mount Unionby Ellen Gibson Goodwin, West Virginia University

Rho Chapter by Gina Todero Mangine, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Karen Kerker Roberts, California State University, Northridgeby Jean Sauer DeFrances, Florida State University

Arlene Schwob Roberts, Drake Universityby Amy Holobyn, Indiana University South Bend

Bre Rogy, Southern Illinois University-Edwardsvilleby Bri Januszyk, Ohio University

Cathryn Sawalski, St. Norbert Collegeby Elizabeth Krajnik, St. Norbert College

Sara Schneier, Temple Universityby Mindy Frohlich, mother of Sara Schneier

Morgan Spradling, Marietta Collegeby Omega Financial, Inc.

Marjorie Merrill Stewart, Stetson Universityby Lucy Ward Bodnar, Stetson University

Tau Chapter by Jenna Jordan, University of New Hampshire

The Ladies of Epsilon Xi by Vanessa Sparrow Hill, Jacksonville State University

Karin Lang Urbanczyk, Wittenberg Universityby Lexi Urbanczyk, Oklahoma State University

Linda Vejvoda, Alpha Kappa House Directorby Alyssa Neher, Kansas State University

Leah Vicini, Michigan State Universityby Kierstin Sanch, Michigan State University

Kristen Vilcans, Cornell Universityby Diane Vilcans, mother of Kristen Vilcans

Sandy Gleason Walston, University of Washingtonby Janice Sheldon Baumback, University of Washington

Lucy Ward Bodnar, Stetson Universityby Linda Gorman Rodriguez, University of Georgia

Cheryl Johnson Weldon, Georgia Institute of Technologyby Amy Nottingham Choate, Georgia Institute of Technology

Janice Nease Wittschiebe, Georgia Institute of Technologyby Mary Hinson Nowers, Georgia Institute of Technology, Alethia Bigbie Thompson, Georgia Institute of Technology

Patricia Wright by Alexia Zilliken, University of Nevada-Las Vegas

Alpha Xi Delta Fraternity 8702 Founders RoadIndianapolis, IN 46268

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Documents

The Quill of Alpha Xi Delta - Spring 2015