Summer 2020 - To Dragma

COLLEGIATE CHAPTER NEWS

Recapping the 2019-2020 school year

ARIZONA STATE U (AZ) – LAMBDA PSI started proud to be named by the Daily News as the
the school year with their Strike Out Arthritis! best Greek organization. Their Office of Greek
Dodgeball Tournament and enjoyed two sister- Life awarded them with Outstanding Risk Reduc-
hood date parties themed ‘Out of This World’ for tion, Membership Development, Relationships,
fall and ‘Crush’ for the spring. For their Smoke Community Service and Philanthropic Endeavors,
Out! Philanthropy event, they hosted three local Recruitment and Retention, and Chapter Opera-
arthritis families for burgers, hot dogs, and veg- tions!
gie burgers made by AOII dads and bachelors BIRMINGHAM-SOUTHERN COLLEGE (AL) –
from their spring bachelor competition. TAU DELTA held their 79th annual Mr. Hilltopper
AUSTIN PEAY STATE U (TN) – PI OMICRON philanthropy event‚ raising $1,375 for the Arthritis
kicked off their year by raising $7,500 at their Foundation. This event continues to be the most
Strike Out Arthritis! event. The chapter enjoyed participated in philanthropy event at Birmingham-
an initiation weekend of laughter and photo Southern! The chapter also enjoyed a sister-
shoots at Jonathan's Creek Camp and Confer- hood retreat, calendaring socials, monthly movie
ence Center. They also hosted a Founders’ Day nights, pledge class dinners, a TikTok social, and
event for sisters, as well as their mothers and partnered with other chapters for monthly Pan-
grandmothers in order to celebrate 123 years of hellenic socials!
Alpha Omicron Pi. BOISE STATE U (ID) – BETA SIGMA started the
BALL STATE U (IN)– KAPPA KAPPA raised academic year with their largest new member
$3,350 during their new philanthropic event, class to date. The chapter raised funds for the
Island Roast. Proceeds benefitted Inside Out and Arthritis Foundation, Children's Miracle Net-
Boys and Girls Club of Muncie. The chapter was work - where Beta Sigma was the fourth highest

Lambda Psi Pi Omicron

Tau Delta Kappa Kappa

51

Collegiate Chapter News

fundraiser - and Relay for Life for the American CALIFORNIA STATE U, SAN MARCOS (CA)
Cancer Society. At the Fraternity and Sorority Life – THETA IOTA kicked off this year by raising
Awards, Beta Sigma took home the most awards $6,500 during their 7th annual Strike Out Arthri-
of any womens fraternity including President of tis! kickball event and making care packages
the Year, Ritual Award, Sisterhood Award, Aca- during their Sisters for Soldiers philanthropy
demic Award and Chapter of the Year. event. They were proudly awarded Excellence in
BRYANT U (RI) – BETA UPSILON bonded at Communications, Membership Recruitment, and
many sisterhood events such as movie nights, Outstanding AAC at Convention. The chapter
pumpkin painting, and Panhellenic game nights. enjoyed many fun sisterhood events, had a suc-
In the winter, they welcomed 13 amazing women. cessful spring recruitment, and held an amazing
Even though they weren't on campus for their Family Day. Theta Iota remains the largest Greek
spring philanthropy event, they still raised $875 organization at CSUSM.
for the Arthritis Foundation! Since they left cam- CARLETON U (CANADA, ON) – GAMMA CHI
pus, they have hosted virtual events such as has enjoyed sisterhood events such as ‘The
skincare review sessions, sent care packages Amazing Race’ and a Valentine's Day themed
and hand-written letters to sisters, and hosted a speed dating. And despite not being able to
virtual formal! hangout in person, sisters are still finding ways
CALIFORNIA STATE U, CHICO (CA) – ZETA to spend time together virtually. Throughout the
THETA started off the school year with their an- year, sisters were recognized for a number of
nual Strike Out Arthritis! Softball Competition, things including sister of the week, golden hang-
raising over $2,000. Later in the fall, they teamed er, and sister success. Gamma Chi participated
up with the Greek community during Greek Week in a variety of philanthropic events over the year
and supported the community after the devastat- including a park clean-up, sock drive and bake
ing Camp Fire. They attended their sisterhood re- sales.
treat at Lake Tahoe, a weekend filled with bond- COE COLLEGE (IA) – ALPHA THETA had an out-
ing activities, photography, and alumnae. They standing time at their annual Smoke Out Arthritis!
wrapped up their year with socials, grab-a-dates, barbecue, raising money for the Arthritis Founda-
and sisterhoods. tion, while also having a great time with sisters
and others on campus. In the fall, their sisters

Beta Sigma Zeta Theta

Beta Upsilon Theta Iota

52 | Summer 2020

2019-2020 Recap

had a chilly day picking apples at Allen’s Orchard DALTON STATE COLLEGE (GA) – LAMBDA
and had an 80's themed glow bowling night! The DELTA had a wonderful school year, starting with
chapter also had many sisterhood date nights, their Founders’ Day celebration. Collegiate, alum-
including making hand stitch letters, making face- nae, and advisors gathered together to celebrate
masks, and other memorable activities. AOII’s Founders. The chapter has enjoyed pjs
COLUMBIA U (NY) – ALPHA sisters enjoyed and movie nights and tie-dye parties. The chap-
various sisterhood events, group study hours, ter welcomed in new members with a sweet life
preparing for an amazing recruitment season, bid day this spring as well. They have enjoyed
and spending time together at every possible the semester and can't wait to continue through
opportunity. Despite being scattered across the the summer and into the next semester!
globe due to COVID-19, sisters have taken can- DEPAUL U (IL) – DELTA RHO built a close-
celed events in stride and created innovative knit sisterhood through city excursions and an
ways to spread Alpha love and remain connect- overnight retreat. Additionally, Delta Rho raised
ed. Though this year has become filled with fear money for Sarah’s Circle, a nonprofit serving
and uncertainty, it has proven that life is so much women around Chicago. They also visited a local
brighter when you have your sisters. pumpkin farm for apple cider, a corn maze, and
COLUMBUS STATE U (GA) – DELTA LAMBDA’s great memories! In February, Delta Rho joined
very first Smoke Out Arthritis! event was a great the Chicago-area alumnae chapters and Phi Chi
success. Additionally, the chapter has been to celebrate 123 years of AOII. Their Spike Out
having a blast creating new sisterhood memo- Arthritis! volleyball tournament raised $2,540 for
ries with their fall 2019 new members during a children with juvenile arthritis.
three-day retreat and their ‘Fancy Clothes and DUQUESNE U (PA) – ALPHA MU hosted their
What Are Those?’ themed Semi-Formal! Delta annual Spike Out Arthritis! volleyball event in No-
Lambda's tailgate family day brought together vember and raised $1,300 for the Arthritis Foun-
the chapter's families for a day of fun, food, and dation. Some of the sisters from West Virginia U
football. The sisters have had an amazing year came up to Pittsburgh for the Strike Out! base-
and can't wait for the next! ball game, so they enjoyed time together. They
hosted multiple sisterhood activities, including a
sisterhood retreat, chapter photo shoots, a night

Gamma Chi Delta Lambda

Alpha 11

Lambda Delta

Collegiate Chapter News

of bowling, and trivia nights on the wing. They sisterhood, the annual Christmas dinner, and a
also co-hosted a mass with one of the fraternities Galentine’s Day event. Their 27th annual AOII Lip
on their campus. Sync event raised over $11,000 for the Arthritis
EAST STROUDSBURG U (PA) – PHI BETA Foundation. In October, newly initiated mem-
welcomed eight new members and continued bers were celebrated at an initiation gala and
their work to help fight arthritis through a Krispy their Rose Ball ended a wonderful semester. The
Kreme donut fundraiser. Phi Beta participated chapter is proud to have the highest cumulative
in events such as Pie a Chi, Tape a Theta, and GPA for 19 consecutive semesters!
numerous bake sales. Their Yankees Strike Out EASTERN WASHINGTON U (WA) – TAU
Arthritis! game was a great bonding experience GAMMA’s brand-new philanthropy event, Milk-
and allowed them to meet numerous AOII sisters shakes for Miracles, was so successful they
from other chapters. Two of their sisters were raised their goal amount in the first thirty minutes!
honored with the Order of Omega academic They also partnered with a fraternity for multiple
award. fundraising events to help out one of the fraterni-
EAST TENNESSEE STATE U (TN) – PHI ALPHA ty men in their community that had been recently
members lovingly responded to the tragic death diagnosed with cancer. They hosted AOII Inter-
of a member’s grandmother from a tornado. The national President Crystal Combs before school
chapter also joined together with members of ended, using the wisdom she offered to grace-
Sigma Phi Epsilon to provide relief for those af- fully transition seniors into alumnae status.
fected by the tornadoes. Phi Alpha raised $580 GEORGE MASON U (VA) – GAMMA ALPHA
and with Sigma Phi Epsilon combined donations hosted their first annual A-O-Pizza-Pi event and
to buy essential supplies for the community raised $2,000! They held their yearly Arthritis
members in need. The chapter was pleased to Week in October where sisters participated in
be able to contribute in this time of need. numerous events benefiting the Arthritis Founda-
EASTERN KENTUCKY U (KY) – EPSILON tion including Pie an AOII and Bowl Out Arthritis!
OMEGA enjoyed several sisterhood events The chapter attended a sisterhood event at a
throughout the year, including a new member local yoga studio after a very successful week of
retreat, friends and family day, a pumpkin patch midterms. Sisters also enjoyed getting together

Delta Rho Phi Beta

Alpha Mu Epsilon Omega

2019-2020 Recap

for crush party, attending Founders’ Day, and another six in the winter. Early in the year, the
welcoming alumnae back for Homecoming. chapter hosted an incredible family day to share
GEORGIA COLLEGE AND STATE U (GA) – PHI with their families about why they love AOII. One
GAMMA started the year with their first-ever Toss of their favorite events was a "S’more Love for
Out Arthritis! fundraiser and raised over $8,070 Arthritis" event that raised $2,000 for the Arthritis
for the Arthritis Foundation! Sisters are also mak- Foundation. Around Christmas, many sisters vis-
ing a difference locally by volunteering at nearby ited their local philanthropy, IKUS, to assist them
school health fairs, book fairs, and reading to in their annual holiday breakfast and later raised
students. Amazing sisterhood events included a over $2,000 for IKUS in a spaghetti dinner.
trip to Hilton Head, South Carolina for a beach HUNTINGDON COLLEGE (AL) – SIGMA DELTA
weekend! Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the members teamed up with the Arthritis Founda-
chapter has been creatively making new ways tion of Alabama and Mississippi to host the annu-
to stay in touch such as a Netflix watch party al Jingle Bell Run on Huntingdon’s own campus.
through Zoom. Their yearly semi-formal was a beautiful success
GETTYSBURG COLLEGE (PA) – BETA ETA and always one of the highlights of AOII’s year!
participated in their third battlefield clean-up at A new event this year was The Inspire Ambition
Gettysburg National Military Park. Their Antica 5K Tea in February. The tea included a silent auc-
philanthropy event raised over $1,800 and their tion to benefit the Arthritis Foundation and guest
annual Smoke Out Arthritis! event raised $1,400! speakers. This event truly was another highlight
They also sold roses for Valentine’s Day to raise of their year!
money for children with juvenile arthritis. In Feb- IOWA STATE U (IA) – IOTA SIGMA hosted their
ruary 2020, they hosted a body image and self- 33rd annual Run for the Roses with the Ames
esteem education event for their campus and Area Running Club and raised $21,000! They
held various sisterhood events, such as painting, participated in Homecoming Week, got painted
other art-related activities to de-stress, and IME for Yell Like Hell and earned 2nd Place in Home-
study sessions. coming overall! They had lots of fun at their Rose
GRAND VALLEY STATE U (MI) – LAMBDA ETA Banquet, AOII retreat, and AOII holiday party
welcomed 27 amazing sisters in the fall and and created friendships for the decades. In the
spring, they got the ball rolling with a creative

Tau Gamma Beta Eta

11

Gamma Alpha Lambda Eta Iota Sigma 55

Collegiate Chapter News

Valentine sisterhood and Founders’ Day hood events. Although they are not physically
event before the semester was cut short due together, they are staying connected through
to COVID-19. virtual book clubs, group chats dedicated to posi-
KENNESAW STATE U (GA) – BETA ZETA mem- tive messages, and sharing recipes and movie
bers enjoyed many events this year including a recommendations.
date night with the Atlanta Braves, a sisterhood MCGILL U (QC, CANADA) – KAPPA PHI’s phe-
retreat at Six Flags and a chapter favorite, Boo nomenal year began with an amazing annual
Bash on Halloween at the Tabernacle in Atlanta. retreat and Founders’ Day with the alumnae
Their Run for the Roses 5K was a big hit and chapter! Recruitment was a roaring success, and
raised over $13,000 for the Arthritis Foundation. many new members took on leadership roles.
During Homecoming Week, Beta Zeta won the They participated in community events, and
coveted Lip Sync Battle against six other teams. graduating sisters achieved prestigious grad
KENTUCKY WESLEYAN COLLEGE (KY) – BETA school scholarships. Warmth of Pies was a great
CHI tried spicing things up this year with some success raising funds for the Arthritis Foundation.
new ways to raise money for the Arthritis Foun- Though COVID-19 changes shocked the world,
dation, They created a Spook Out Arthritis! they supported each other virtually through a dif-
Venmo tree and raised money all fall and hosted ficult time.
a Scrunch Out Arthritis! table where they sold MIAMI U (OH) – OMEGA may have had their
scrunchies. They also held fun sisterhood events second semester cut very short, but they still fit
and hosted an awesome rock and roll themed fall in several significant events and had a highly
formal. The chapter received the Greek Involve- successful recruitment season. The chapter had
ment Award and placed first in Greek Week. its annual Out of This World themed semi-formal
LEHIGH U (PA) – LAMBDA UPSILON is proud of and AOPirate, held in Cincinnati in the fall, along
their many accomplishments this year. Despite with Rock On Omicron, the chapter’s main phi-
the fact that their main philanthropy events are lanthropy event in the first semester. The chapter
in the spring, they still raised over $5,000 for the also partnered with fraternities to hold themed
Arthritis Foundation and Relay for Life. The chap- socials, such as the Gym Bros and Yoga Gals
ter hosted speakers and health services at sister- social with Alpha Epsilon Pi.

Sigma Delta Beta Chi

Beta Zeta Lambda Upsilon Kappa Phi

2019-2020 Recap

MICHIGAN STATE U (MI) – BETA GAMMA had room only and created a positive wave on Mis-
an excellent time this past year creating a stron- souri State’s campus. Delta Gamma also com-
ger sisterhood, welcoming over 50 new sisters pleted many philanthropy events throughout the
home, and most importantly becoming the year including Pie an AOII, Cookie Dough with
best versions of themselves. This past fall they Alpha O, and Starch Out Arthritis!
hosted their second annual Pizza, Puppies, and MONMOUTH U (NJ) – IOTA THETA hosted
Pi’s event, and this spring, their infamous Strike their annual Strike Out Arthritis! tournament in
Out Arthritis! event. They hosted many different the fall and organized a successful AOII Goes
events within the community to raise money and Blue Week, raising a total of $1,800. The chapter
spread awareness for the Arthritis Foundation. enjoyed unique sisterhood events such as a day
MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE U (TN) – RHO trip to Hershey Park, a holiday movie night, and
OMICRON began the year by winning Home- a new member retreat at the indoor amusement
coming and one of their own sisters was park, iPlay America. They also partnered with the
crowned queen! After that, the chapter held All Food Recovery Network and were proud to earn
Sing, a competition that supports its local philan- the highest Panhellenic GPA on campus.
thropy, Special Kids, and raised over $10,500 for MONTANA STATE U (MT) – ALPHA PHI is proud
the local therapy center! Rho Omicron has been to salute four exceptional members. Mamie Her-
able to enjoy sisterhood events like pumpkin tel was inducted as Vice President of the Central
carving, yoga, a masquerade themed fall formal Region for the National FFA Organization. Janae
and was honored to host International President Vasatka was hired by the Lockheed Martin Cor-
Crystal Combs at their first ever Founders’ Day poration as an engineering intern in Fort Worth,
luncheon! Texas. Lauren Johnsrude spent the spring and
MISSOURI STATE U (MO) – DELTA GAMMA summer at the Glavestron Bay Refinery as a refin-
started off the spring semester by hosting an ing chemical engineering intern for the Marathon
anti-hazing educational event with guest speak- Petroleum Company. And, Gabby Spurzem is the
ers, Rae Ann Gruver and Evelynn Piazza. Both winner of the Goldwater Scholarship.
families have lost sons due to hazing and came MURRAY STATE U (KY) – DELTA OMEGA kicked
to campus to share their impactful stories and the off the school year with their annual Mr. Murray
effects of hazing. The lecture hall was standing

Iota Theta

Beta Gamma Rho Omicron
Delta Gamma
Omega

57

Collegiate Chapter News

State U and raised $10,000! The chapter enjoyed NORTHWESTERN STATE U (LA) – KAPPA CHI
several sisterhood events including a sisterhood enjoyed a visit from International President Crys-
campout retreat, a canoe trip in Tennessee, a tal Combs and placed first in the Homecoming
Cupcake Wars baking competition night, and a banner contest! They hosted their first Juvenile
Star Wars-themed Homecoming. The chapter Arthritis Family Day in partnership with the Ar-
was proud to be voted by the Murray community thritis Foundation and raised funds through their
as Best Sorority on campus and Best Student annual AOPIHOP event. To any chapter who has
Organization at Murray State! not had an online game night or an online Netflix
NORTHEASTERN STATE U (OK) – CHI THETA and spa night with sisters, they highly recom-
started off the semester with a retreat at the mend it. Their Alpha Love has never been stron-
Burnt Cabin, canvas painting sessions, a Galen- ger!
tine’s Day event, movie nights and a breakfast OKLAHOMA STATE U (OK) – OMEGA SIGMA
potluck. The chapter raised over $1,000 in a kicked off the fall by raising $4,400 for their local
graduation flower sale drive and participated in philanthropy, the Saville Center for Child Ad-
events such as the LC retreat, Alpha Male, COB vocacy with an event called Sweets for Saville.
events, monthly photoshoots, Dance Marathon They followed that up by participating in Into the
Greek Week, moms and dads Day, powderpuff Streets, a campus-wide day of service, where
football, Bone Bash, and much more. they won Most Involved Organization. Sisterhood
NORTHERN KENTUCKY U (KY) – NU OMEGA events included an overnight retreat, movie mar-
members may have been kept apart by CO- athons, and a spring formal. The spring semester
VID-19 in a physical sense for spring 2020, but came to an abrupt end, but online events have
the love for each other has kept them strong kept their sisterhood strong.
and united. Looking back at the fall, great times OREGON STATE U (OR) – ALPHA RHO brought
included recruitment, bid day, big/little reveal, home 44 lovely new members, raised $3,427 in
Strike Out Arthritis! and more. All of their events a Strike Out Arthritis! bowling tournament and
created great memories, but it’s their love for penny wars. They raised another $4,000 dol-
Alpha that is keeping them united. lars for Oregon Special Olympics and donated
over 500 toys and other items to a local youth
shelter. They held an amazing Founders’ Day

Alpha Phi Delta Omega Chi Theta

Nu Omega

58 | Summer 2020

2019-2020 Recap

before transitioning to Zoom sisterhoods due to at the Jingle Bell Run. Additionally, sisters en-
COVID-19. Although they aren't near each other joyed making smores at sisterhoods, spa days,
physically, this has given them the opportunity to and bowling. No matter the occasion, Alpha Nu
grow closer as a chapter and as sisters. always finds a way to promote compassion and
PURDUE U (IN) – PHI UPSILON started the year sisterhood.
with a philanthropy event, Alpha Phry, serving SAINT JOSEPH’S U (PA) – SIGMA BETA held its
all kinds of fried food and raising over $3,000! annual Smoke Out Arthritis! barbecue in the fall
Throughout the fall, sisters spent time together and raised over $8,000! They were honored to
through fun activities like football games and host International President Crystal Combs as a
sisterhood events, such as pumpkin paintings keynote speaker at their Founders’ Day celebra-
and a canoe trip. In the spring, the chapter was tion in January with collegiate sisters and alum-
planning to host their annual AOPotato event, nae from the area. The chapter enjoyed sister-
but it was cancelled due to COVID-19. However, hood events like their autumn visit to Linvilla
the chapter still donated $1,000 to the Arthritis Orchard, Zumba classes, and trips into Center
Foundation! City, Philadelphia.
QUINCY U (IL) – EPSILON SIGMA had planned a SAMFORD U (AL) – RHO DELTA was proud to
Pie a Pi event as their Strike Out Arthritis! event. receive the Step Sing Philanthropy Award and
University professors and sisters get pied during the Samford Greek Award for Outstanding Cam-
a Quincy U baseball game with money benefit- pus Involvement. The chapter collected almost
ting the Arthritis Foundation. The chapter has 200 pandas during a panda drive, held a letter
been meeting virtually and plans to reschedule writing campaign and partnered with Kendra
this event next year. Scott for a give back shopping event. Around
RAMAPO COLLEGE OF NEW JERSEY (NJ) – Christmas, they hosted the Arthritis Foundation’s
ALPHA NU has maintained a classy, reputable Cookies with Santa event at their house. Every
image across campus. Their annual Smoke Out month, the chapter has held sisterhood dinners
Arthritis! event included food and games, while as well as game nights and Bachelor nights.
raising money for the Arthritis Foundation. Sisters SAN JOSE STATE U (CA) – DELTA SIGMA had
also volunteered at a 5K to cheer on participants an amazing AOCHELLA themed bid day in a rec-

Kappa Chi Alpha Nu Phi Upsilon

Omega Sigma Sigma Beta

59

Collegiate Chapter News

reation of Coachella. The chapter then had a sis- ery fundraiser to benefit the Arthritis Foundation.
terhood retreat at Santa Cruz Boardwalk, which The chapter enjoyed visiting a pumpkin patch in
made the sisters feel closer to each other. They October, Friendsgiving for Thanksgiving, Gal-
also had a very successful philanthropy event entine’s Day in February, bi-weekly sisterhood
this year. Just before the year got cut short due dates and more. They received the awards of
to COVID-19 restrictions they managed to enjoy a Academic Excellence and Chapter of the Year at
successful mixer with their alumnae. their Greek Life Celebration of Excellence and
SETON HALL U (NJ) – GAMMA PHI’s busy year also achieved highest sorority GPA on campus.
began with adding a new local philanthropy, the SONOMA STATE U (CA) – XI RHO has demon-
Associated Humane Society in Newark; they strated the ability to stay connected even during
have enjoyed assisting through fundraising and these uncertain times. They have been doing
volunteering. The chapter had two ELC visits dur- virtual sisterhoods to stay up to date on how
ing and after recruitment which helped to unify they are all doing and offer a supportive hand to
their chapter and make recruitment a success. anyone in need. Their first virtual sisterhood was
They recruited a new member class of 27 and through Panhellenic where they were able to
the chapter has grown much closer. sign on to Zoom and participate in a virtual yoga
SHIPPENSBURG U (PA) – TAU LAMBDA began class with all of their Greek peers. With the help
their year by hosting their Spike Out Arthritis! of headquarters staff, they sent off their seniors
volleyball tournament and started a panda drive in a meaningful way saluting all they have ac-
to collect stuffed animals and raise money. The complished in their time as members of AOII.
chapter has enjoyed many sisterhood events SOUTHEASTERN LOUISIANA U (LA) – KAPPA
including being thankful for one another at a TAU hosted their annual MADD Dash 5K with
Friendsgiving, cooling off with an ice cream Delta Tau Delta and raised $7,463.25 in honor of
social after chapter and spending a day full of a sister who passed away. For Thanksgiving, they
laughs on a hike. enjoyed dinner with family and alumnae. Their
SLIPPERY ROCK U (PA) – SIGMA RHO hosted a annual sisterhood retreat was themed Let’s Taco
successful Let’s Taco ‘Bout Arthritis philanthropy ‘Bout Sisterhood and included games, tacos,
event, which was a late-night walking taco deliv- rock climbing, an amazing race, and time bond-
ing with sisters. For spring, they held a month-

Rho Delta Delta Sigma Sigma Rho

Gamma Phi Xi Rho

60 | Summer 2020

2019-2020 Recap

long alumnae flamingo flocking event and were Potter movie marathon, several house dinners
able to hold their spring mini-sis retreat before and an overnight sisterhood retreat at a local
COVID-19 restrictions were set into place. camp. Members attended the Strike Out Arthritis!
TARLETON STATE U (TX) – THETA SIGMA en- game and hosted their annual philanthropy event
joyed a bunch of fun sisterhood events such as Slice Out Arthritis!, raising $3,200 for the Arthritis
a spa night, socials, and more. For their Sisters Foundation. Additionally, many chapter members
for Soldiers fall philanthropy event, the women's participated in the Jingle Bell Run.
basketball team donated the most items and won TEXAS WOMAN’S U (TX) – DELTA THETA had
the competition and they raised an incredible a great academic year! They held sisterhood
chunk of change that made a tremendous impact events such as decorating Valentine’s Day cook-
on the soldiers in San Antonio. One of the cool- ies and making cards to give the residents of
est things they won this year was Tarleton State's Mayberry Gardens, a living and memory care
Homecoming Yell Contest. They placed third in home. Philanthropy events included a ‘bite nite’
small division and took home the spirit stick for at Mellow Mushroom to benefit the Arthritis
the competition. Foundation and volunteering at Shiloh Field
TEXAS A&M U (TX) – TAU MU began the fall se- Community Garden, where they worked together
mester with formal recruitment and a lot of Aggie to better their community through hard work and
football. They enjoyed several sisterhood events dedication.
including yoga, the pumpkin patch, and a won- TOWSON U (MD) – THETA BETA started off the
derful fall sisterhood retreat. They hosted their 2019 school year with fun philanthropy events for
Sisters for Soldiers event called Taco ‘Bout the the Arthritis Foundation. These events included
Troops which benefitted Soldiers & Angels. The Pi Guy, a mens pageant, and Pie an AOII. The
chapter was proud to announce the construction chapter ended the fall semester with their big-
and progress on their new house and cannot gest philanthropy fundraiser, the Jingle Bell Run,
wait to make it their home. placing as one of the top teams raising close to
TEXAS CHRISTIAN U (TX) – LAMBDA RHO had $6,000! Sisterhood events include a parents tail-
many fun sisterhood events such as a trip to a gate, visiting the Ronald McDonald House, and a
pumpkin patch, a celebration of fall night, a Harry holiday party held by the chapter for underprivi-
leged children in Baltimore City.

Theta Delta Tau Mu

Kappa Tau

Theta Sigma Theta Beta

Delta Theta 61

Collegiate Chapter News

TRANSYLVANIA U (KY) – TAU OMEGA has U OF ARKANSAS (AR) – XI OMICRON enjoyed
been staying in touch ever since their semester a movie night sisterhood on their front lawn, a
was cut short. They successfully celebrated Gal- night at the pumpkin patch, and joined in dance
entine's Day and Founders’ Day, held their March functions with other Greek life organizations.
formal and recruited four new members through The chapter also donated almost $5,000 to the
COB. They are so excited to have them and see Counseling and Physiological Services program
the chapter grow. While they are sad to be sepa- on their campus. COVID-19 canceled many
rated, they are thrilled for this year’s recruitment events but the chapter is staying connected
and to be reunited with each other once again. through live chat meetings and weekly updates.
They are also very proud of three sisters who U OF ARKANSAS - FORT SMITH (AR) –
have been chosen to be Rho Gammas. UPSILON BETA started off the year with their Al-
TROY U (AL) – THETA DELTA raised more than pha Male Pageant, which raised $300, followed
$10,000 for the Arthritis Foundation during their by a retreat in North-West Arkansas where they
fall and spring philanthropy weeks. Events in- got to meet some of the sisters of Xi Omicron!
cluded a fall festival, “Donut You Know About They also enjoyed a country themed semi-formal
Arthritis,” Strike Out Arthritis! and a spring over- and a picnic themed family day. The chapter was
sized kickball tournament. Other highlights of the very proud to place first place in the Greek Week
year included a new member/sisterhood retreat, Lip Sync and third overall for Homecoming week.
a waterslide event, movie night, karaoke pajama Their new local philanthropy supports Almost
party and much more! They are also participating Home, a no kill dog shelter.
in Netflix watch parties and online games to stay U OF BRITISH COLUMBIA (BC, CANADA) –
connected. BETA KAPPA started the year with its annual
U OF ALABAMA IN HUNTSVILLE (AL) – DELTA Score Out Arthritis! event in October and raised
TAU welcomed fall with a Strike Out Arthritis! over $300. In the spring, the chapter hosted its
kickball tournament and raised over $5,000! The annual AOPie Eating Contest event with their
chapter also enjoyed a sisterhood retreat at a own Tal Minzer DJing the event. In March, the
Braves Strike Out Arthritis! game in Atlanta. Delta chapter was able to showcase their talents in
Tau also held its annual AOII-Hop pancake fund- Order of Omega's Songfest and later enjoyed
raiser which raised another $1,200! several cozy movie nights, a beautiful hike in

Delta Tau Upsilon Beta Kappa Lambda

Beta Kappa Lambda Iota
Xi Omicron

2019-2020 Recap

Whytecliff Park over spring reading break, a deli- raised $800 for the Arthritis Foundation in Rock
cious brunch in their chapter room, and a memo- Out Arthritis! and enjoyed countless sisterhoods
rable formal. such as retreats, pool days, brunches, and walk-
U OF CALGARY (AB, CANADA) – KAPPA ing the corn mazes of Carolyn's Country Cousins
LAMBDA hosted a very successful formal re- Pumpkin Patch. Formals and socials rounded out
cruitment and celebrated 22 new members. In an exceptional year.
the fall, the chapter participated in a Panhel- U OF CHICAGO (IL) – PHI CHI focused much
lenic recruitment workshop, a sisterhood event, of their year on increasing member attendance
hosted a Thanksgiving dinner and historian night and enthusiasm. For example, each week the
with the Calgary Alumnae Chapter, organized a members do Bess Buddies where sisters are
very successful Trick-or-Eat philanthropy for the paired together to go on coffee dates and con-
University's Food Bank, and welcomed seven nect. They enjoyed a great retreat at Camp
more new members in their winter class. Their Kupugani and recruited 59 new members. They
circus themed sisterhood retreat was also a huge raised $33,000 for the AOII Arthritis Foundation,
success! $5,000 of which went to Camp JAM.
U OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (CA) – U OF EVANSVILLE (IN) – CHI LAMBDA started
LAMBDA IOTA enjoyed an amazing fall formal the year with their Spike Out Arthritis! event and
held in downtown San Diego, and several fun raised $3,298 for The Arthritis Foundation. The
sisterhoods, including a fun day of paddle board- chapter also enjoyed sisterhood events together
ing and a self-defense class. The chapter was by watching The Bachelor and the Super Bowl.
proud that their new member class placed first in They participated in Musical Madness, a philan-
the overall GPA and the chapter placed second. thropy event benefiting TRACES, a transitional
Their AOPalooza philanthropy event and their an- program providing special education services. At
nual date dash were both incredibly successful! this event, the women of Chi Lambda took home
U OF CENTRAL MISSOURI (MO) –DELTA PI wel- the crowd-pleaser award!
comed 19 new members, had the second highest U OF FLORIDA (FL) – GAMMA OMICRON had
GPA overall on campus and member Katie Cupp an eventful year filled with support, sisterhood,
was named Homecoming Queen 2019. They and service! The chapter raised $28,174 for UF’s

Delta Pi Phi Chi Pi Alpha
Lambda Tau Lambda Alpha
Tau 63

Collegiate Chapter News

annual Dance Marathon and engaged in a hand- Alpha O jungle date party. Their retreat included
ful of service activities, supporting local organiza- crafts, games, and a discussion on mental health.
tions such as the Cancer Society Hope Lodge, They bundled up and met before sunrise at the
the Ronald McDonald House, and St. Francis Jingle Bell Run to hand out coffee, judge cos-
House. The chapter also took part in pumpkin tumes, decorate and participate! At the Cystic
carving, gingerbread contests, challah baking, Fibrosis awards ceremony, their local philan-
and stadium exercises to foster and enhance thropy awarded them 2019 Volunteer of the
relationships between members. Year. Founders’ Day, a Fryberger competition
U OF LA VERNE (CA) – LAMBDA ALPHA started and Raise Red Dance Marathon rounded out the
their semester off with one of their most popular spring semester.
philanthropy events, Pie a Pi. They were able U OF MINNESOTA (MN) – TAU hosted their fall
to get all Greek chapters involved and raised philanthropy, “Artists for Arthritis” that featured lo-
money for Sisters for Soldiers and juvenile arthri- cal music artists and a breakfast feast that raised
tis. They had two sisterhood retreats, one at Big $7,040! The chapter enjoyed a successful Home-
Bear Lake and one in Palm Springs. They have coming week, a perfect fall sisterhood at a local
the 2nd highest GPA on campus and have mul- apple orchard, an exciting exchange at a corn
tiple sisters with leadership roles on campus. maze, and traveling around the world with sis-
U OF LOUISIANA AT LAFAYETTE (LA) – DELTA ters. Tau was proud to earn Outstanding Member
BETA kicked off the semester with COB through- Development for PHC at this year’s 2020 Greek
out the first few months of the semester. A suc- Awards and achieved the second highest soror-
cessful big/little week helped their new members ity GPA on campus.
feel welcome. They had a sisterhood retreat U OF NEBRASKA-LINCOLN (NE) – ZETA started
at their lodge where sisters bonded and grew off their philanthropy events with Pretzels at the
closer. COVID-19 cut short many great activities Pi benefiting the Arthritis Foundation, then with
but the chapter is staying connected and looking Milk and Cookies in the winter supporting Toys
forward to the fall semester. for Tots. The chapter enjoyed fun events such as
U OF LOUISIANA AT MONROE (LA) – LAMBDA pajama jam sleepover and freshman/sophomore
TAU successfully recruited 31 new members and retreat where they participated in bonding ac-
held a big/little reveal in October, which was a tivities. As a chapter they also enjoyed themed
fun time for all sisters. A COB bid day welcomed
seven more ladies to the 2019 pledge class. The Xi
fall also included a Chili Cook-off for philanthropy
and their annual Rose Ball. With spring 2020 cut
short due to COVID-19, they look forward to get-
ting back to school in the fall!
U OF LOUISVILLE (KY) – PI ALPHA started the
year with a Strike Out Arthritis! event and an

Zeta

Theta Psi

64 | Summer 2020

2019-2020 Recap

formals-Decades and Country, along with two Arthritis! and raised over $10,000 for the Arthritis
formal attire events. Foundation. The chapter held many sisterhood
U OF NEVADA, RENO (NV) – DELTA NU cel- events such as Bachelor Mondays, Halloween
ebrated new members at a retreat at the Urban pumpkin carving and more. They were proud
Air Trampoline and Adventure Park. Their fall to receive a multitude of honors this year rang-
philanthropy, Starch-Out Arthritis!, was a huge ing from 1st in grades, 1st place at Chi Omega's
success raising $6,000! The chapter enjoyed sis- Songfest dance competition, 1st place in Pi
terhood events including ice skating, a spa day, Kappa Phi's Ability Week and three sisters on
and an academic banquet to celebrate the sis- Homecoming Court.
ters’ academic success. Delta Nu has also been U OF SOUTH CAROLINA AIKEN (SC) – CHI
volunteering at the Ronald McDonald House, PHI raised over $7,000 at their Strike Out Arthri-
the Northern Nevada Food Bank, and donating tis! Run for the Roses 5K to benefit the Arthritis
hygiene products. Foundation. The chapter has enjoyed many
U OF OKLAHOMA (OK) – XI welcomed home sisterhood events, especially their “Retreat Your-
over 90 women during recruitment! They held self” sleepover while doing self-care and a yoga
several memorable sisterhoods that included class! They achieved the highest cumulative GPA
extreme animals, CycleBar, Bachelor nights and on campus and were thrilled to have had Interna-
a field trip to the OKC Zoo. Their leadership tional President Crystal Combs visit their chapter
flourished as two women hold officer positions this year!
in OU’s Panhellenic Executive Council. In the U OF TENNESSEE AT MARTIN (TN) – TAU
fall, they held a new philanthropy event called OMICRON kicked off the year with a great new
“AOII Goes Blue” and participated in another member class followed by a great spa sisterhood
new philanthropy, “Milkshakes for Monroe” and event! Their 5K event raised $6,000 and aware-
raised $6,000 which funded the children attend- ness for the Arthritis Foundation. The chapter has
ing Monroe Elementary. Xi Chapter contributed enjoyed other sisterhoods such as Galentine’s,
$29,000 to OU’s Soonerthon event. a day at the pumpkin patch, and many Bachelor
U OF SOUTH ALABAMA (AL) – GAMMA DELTA Mondays. Their weekly bible study keeps their
started off the fall semester with Spook Out faith strong and their Mardi Gras themed new
member social was awesome.

Gamma Delta

Delta Nu Tau Omicron 65

Collegiate Chapter News

U OF TEXAS-SAN ANTONIO (TX) – UPSILON of their five new members. Although members
LAMBDA followed up a great recruitment with are not physically together, AOII still connects
sisterhood events that included a retreat in them as a family.
Concan, Texas, and a pumpkin patch photoshoot. U OF WESTERN ONTARIO (ON, CANADA) –
The chapter participated in a campus-wide event IOTA CHI welcomed 31 new members during
called 'Best Fest' selling corn in a cup and was formal recruitment. A major highlight was the
so successful they sold out three times through- success of a new philanthropy event, Alpha
out the event! Even though the spring semester Omicrown, which was a series of friendly games
was cut short, the chapter helped immuno-com- between the Panhellenic community that raised
promised sisters get groceries, write letters to $2,046.78 for the Arthritis Foundation. Founders’
nearby hospitals, and held weekly Netflix watch Day brunch was held in November, and sisters
parties. bonded during apple picking, bowling, and res-
U OF TOLEDO (OH) – THETA PSI celebrated taurant dinners. The New Member retreat was
their new members with a color-run themed bid a successful cozy movie night with lots of tasty
day! They went straight to work raising money treats!
during their Smoke Out Arthritis! tailgating barbe- U OF WISCONSIN–RIVER FALLS (WI) – KAPPA
cue and AOPierogies philanthropy dinner, raising SIGMA started the school year off strong by
$3,050 for the Arthritis Foundation! The chap- raising $500 at their annual Strike Out Arthritis!
ter was first in fundraising in both campus-wide carnival. Kappa Sigma also raised $200 for Sis-
events, Rockethon and Relay For Life, as well as ters for Soldiers by selling roses on Valentine's
first in spirit points at Relay For Life. The chapter Day on campus! Before the school year was
is continuing to keep sisterhood strong by con- abruptly brought to an end, the chapter engaged
necting virtually. in sisterhood events such as pajamas parties and
U OF WATERLOO (ON, CANADA) – LAMBDA photoshoots! They are continuing to host virtual
EPSILON started the new year off with a great sisterhoods, like virtual scavenger hunts.
COB and a wonderful event to welcome new U OF WISCONSIN–MILWAUKEE (WI) – PHI
members. The fun winter event emphasized how DELTA started their semester by reliving their
warm-hearted their AOII family at the U of Water- childhood at a Jonas Brothers concert, then
loo is. Their final event ended with the initiation

Iota Chi Alpha Gamma

Sigma Alpha Alpha Chi

Phi D1e0lta| Summer 2020

2019-2020 Recap

cheered on the Brewers for Strike Out Arthritis! WEST VIRGINIA U (WV) – SIGMA ALPHA
For International Hazing Prevention week, the started this school year with a House Dedication
chapter hosted a tabling activity where UWM Ceremony for their newly renovated home. The
students could sign an anti-hazing petition. chapter raised $1,310 from their AOIIHop philan-
Highlights of the year included a pumpkin patch thropy, teamed up with the brothers of Delta Chi
sisterhood, a family day potluck, their Rose Bowl to raise money for Australian fire relief, hosted a
formal and a Friendsgiving dinner. Spring rolled Project Linus blanket making event, and made
in with Founders’ Day and a sisterhood at the Mil- care packages for Sisters for Soldiers. They also
waukee Art Museum. participated in WVU’s Relay for Life and Moun-
VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH U (VA) – RHO taineerTHON, and held their first parents' week-
BETA enjoyed sisterhood events such as apple end!
picking, roller skating, bowling, a new member WESTERN KENTUCKY U (KY) – ALPHA CHI
photo shoot, and a family picnic. They hosted a started the year by earning second place overall
game night themed date function and a Valen- and brought home the spirit stick in Homecom-
tine's Day semi-formal. The chapter was proud to ing 2019. New members were celebrated during
increase their average GPA, establish local phi- a sisterhood retreat at Jump Air Zone. To raise
lanthropies, and participate in the Jingle Bell Run. money for arthritis, Alpha Chi hosted the annual
WASHINGTON STATE U (WA) – ALPHA Strike Out Arthritis! event that raised $11,183.59 in
GAMMA began the year with an incredible the fall semester. They held a second Strike Out
whitewater rafting sisterhood. This summer, their Arthritis! bowling event in the spring semester
sister Emma Lande was diagnosed with (and as well as sold stickers to total up the year for
beat!) cancer for the second time. The chapter philanthropy reaching $18,578.38.
hosted a fundraising event to support Emma and WINGATE U (NC) – ALPHA EPSILON started off
her family, in coordination with two fraternities. the year with an Alpha O color run bid day theme
The chapter also held their annual AOPie night to that was a glitterific event! They tried out a new
fundraise for the Arthritis Foundation. It was their philanthropy event, Fries with the Pi's, and it was
most successful philanthropy event ever! a success! The chapter enjoyed their sisterhood
retreat at a sister's lake house, spending time
Alpha Epsilon sharing stories, going for a swim, and getting
Kappa Delta closer to one another. Overall, it was a great se-
mester until COVID-19 forced the sisters to return
home. That did not stop them from having online
meetings and remaining as close as ever!
WRIGHT STATE U (OH) – KAPPA DELTA's year
began with their annual Backyard Bash. The
corn-hole tournament event raised more than
$1,200! The chapter enjoyed more sisterhood
events including Young's Dairy, movie nights,
photo shoots and a Final-Rose-themed semi-for-
mal. In December, the chapter volunteered at the
annual Jingle Bell Run 5K for arthritis. A Found-
ers’ Day brunch celebration was also held at the
beginning of this year. The chapter hosted a vir-
tual senior send-off for all its graduating seniors.

Group photos were taken while schools were still on cam-

pus, prior to COVID-19 being declared a pandemic. 67

BACK TO THE BOOKS! 

Good luck to all parents, students, and teachers as the school year resumes! Visit the website
below to get a quote and see how much you could save on car insurance with the special
Member Discount, plus an additional 15% credit applied to all six months of your auto policy!
Your quote also helps benefit AOII!

GEICO.COM/GREEK/ALPHAOMICRONPI
GEICO.COM/MYDISCOUNT
1-800-368-2734

GEICO contracts with various membership entities and other organizations, but these entities do not underwrite the offered insurance products. Some discounts, coverages,
payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Discount amount varies in some states. One group discount applicable per policy. Coverage
is individual. In New York a premium reduction may be available. GEICO may not be involved in a formal relationship with each organization; however, you still may qualify for a
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20076;SapBreinrkgshi2re0H1a9thaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2020.

Life Loyal

With grateful appreciation, Alpha Omicron Pi recognizes the
following members who joined Life Loyal between February 19
and August 1, 2020.

Alpha Chi Delta Lambda Kappa Kappa Phi Sigma

Western Kentucky U Columbus State U Ball State U U of Nebraska at Kearney

Megan DeVore Ashley Brand Sharla Kinsey Audrey Barrera
Alivia Maxwell Kylie Poling Abigail Heller
Epsilon Alpha
Alpha Mu Kappa Lamda Phi Upsilon
Pennsylvania State U
Duquesne State U U of Calgary Purude U
Vallon Barnes
Brianna Dzuricsko Jordana Corcione Meaghan Monroe Rebecca Wells

Alpha Pi Epsilon Gamma Lambda Alpha Rho Omicron

Florida State U U of Northern Colorado U of La Verne Middle Tennessee State U

Katherine Blommel Rebecca Randel Loren Sanchez Mary Ratliff
Brittani Johnson
Gamma Alpha Lambda Beta Theta Iota
Beta Gamma
George Mason U California State U, California State U,
Michigan State U Long Beach San Marcos
Lindsay Walter
Cailin Haggerty Nadine Doughman McKenna Gallagher
Gamma Delta
Beta Phi Lambda Sigma Theta Pi
U of South Alabama
Indiana U U of Georgia Wagner College
Sharon Maddox
Peggy Terhune Jocelyn Lang Lisa Prescott Ann Marie Menna

Beta Zeta Gamma Sigma Lambda Tau Theta Sigma

Kennesaw State U Georgia State U U of Louisiana at Monroe Tarleton State U

Alyssa Craig Angela Brock Lori Miklos Hayden Hewett
Kaci O’Donnell
Delta Beta Iota Sigma Xi
Nu Beta
U of Louisiana Iowa State U U of Oklahoma
at Lafayette U of Mississippi
Jennifer Blackmon Gabrielle Jackson
Ashley Williams Diana Isaacson Jennifer Burton Laura Moore
Nicole Zandier
Delta Chi Kappa Alpha Nu Omicron
Zeta Pi
U of Delaware Indiana State U Vanderbilt U
U of Alabama
Hallie Salmi Shania Harrison Carol Spangler at Birmingham

Delta Delta Kappa Gamma Omega Jessica Arnidis

Auburn U Florida Southern College Miami U

Morgan Maddox Cynthia Cubberley Whitney Reddan

69

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AOII membership experience. Dues will support various initiatives such as membership events and
programming, personal and professional development, and increased involvement opportunities
between our collegiate and alumnae members.

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never joined an alumnae chapter, to receive their first year of alumnae dues at no cost! All a new alumna
needs to do to join is tell her Alumnae Chapter President that it is her first time to join an alumnae
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Click here to read more about this program and find an alumnae chapter near you!

Denver Alumnae
Photo was taken pre-pandemic.