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Published by Alpha Omicron Pi, 2017-10-24 14:20:00

2013 Fall/Winter - To Dragma

2013 Fall/Winter - To Dragma

To Dragmaof Alpha Omicron Pi
Vol. 78 No. 1 Fall/Winter 2013

On the Cover: Gamma Omicron (U
of Florida) member Christina Mosti (r)
gives new member Olivia Christ (l) a big
‘welcome to AOII’ Bid Day hug!

Below: Even a little rain on Bid Day
can’t keep Morgan Maultsby (l) and
Kristy Lennon (r) of Sigma Alpha (West
Virginia U) from flashing beautiful “You
can’t rain on our parade” smiles!

14

62

10 c o n t e n t s

9 Viewpoint 50 AOII Foundation News
52 Things We Love
10 Reinstallation - Alpha Pi Chapter 54 2013-2014 Sta˜ and Volunteer Directory
58 From the Archives
12 Installation - Sigma Theta Chapter 60 Life Loyal AOIIs
62 Fall Photo Gallery
14 Now Boarding for New Experiences 66 Founders’ Day 2013-2014 Messages
67 For Further Discussion
24 Online Branding and Professionalism
To Dragma • 3
30 Are You a Hero or a Bystander?

34 Study Smart

38 The SOA! Pitch to MLB!

40 Be Aware!

42 A Stitch in Time

42

Issue no. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013

To DragmaofAlphaOmicronPi From the Editor

To Dragma is the official magazine of Alpha Omicron Pi What do our fall and winter holidays all have in common? The rst
Fraternity, and has been published since 1905. The mission thought that comes into my mind is they all inspire traditions. As a
of To Dragma of Alpha Omicron Pi is: to inform, educate and child, I looked forward to my family’s traditional gatherings, meals,
inspire our readers on subjects relevant to our Fraternity, our and activities all year. And as a mom, I continued many of my favorite
chapters, our members, or Greek life; to encourage lifetime childhood traditions while introducing new ones to my own children.
AOII involvement; to salute excellence; and to serve as a I know my children will do the same. By de nition, traditions are
permanent record of our Fraternity’s history. the handing down of statements, beliefs, legends and customs from
generation to generation. In AOII, we also have many time-honored
How to Contact To Dragma: traditions that have endured.
To Dragma, 5390 Virginia Way, Brentwood, TN 37027
(615) 370-0920, fax: (615) 371-9736, www.alphaomicronpi.org, Many common fraternity traditions include attending Founders’ Day
[email protected] events or AOII Days, singing AOII Grace, listening to Convention
storytelling sessions, draping of our badge in honor of a deceased
How to Update Your Name or Address: chapter member (over a black ribbon) or for the installation of a new
Go to Update Info tab on the AOII website chapter (over a red ribbon), and joining in a Friendship Circle when we
(www.alphaomicronpi.org), email your new address to sing the Epsilon Chapter Song. There are others too, like the gifting
[email protected], or call (615) 370-0920. of the Ruby “A” Badge and knowing the “AOII Whistle,” which
has been around since 1913 - a century! Do you know the “AOII
How to Subscribe to To Dragma: Whistle?” I can’t whistle, but if you can or you’re curious, you can
Subscriptions are $25.00 annually and can be paid by check
or credit card. Checks, made payable to AOII, should be nd the sheet music in the To Dragma area on the AOII website at
mailed to 5390 Virginia Way, Brentwood, TN 37027, www.alphaomicronpi.org. I really hope you will learn it and pass it
Attn: Accounting. Credit card subscribers (Visa, on! That’s a century old tradition that truly needs to be revived!
Master Card, Discover, AMEX) should email ncherry@
alphaomicronpi.org. Another AOII tradition that should immediately grab everyone’s
interest is what our Founders’ called “The Essential Tradition.” They
How to Join Life Loyal AOII: believed that “The essential tradition of Alpha Omicron Pi is that
Visit the AOII website (www.alphaomicronpi.org), or contact our Rituals and promises are to be considered, not as an emotional
[email protected]. expression of an uplifted mood, but as a working principle, in college
How to Join an AOII Alumnae Chapter: and afterwards, toward members and non-members.” I am certain this
Visit the AOII website for contact information on an alumnae essential tradition is a statement our Founders would expect for us to
chapter near you. be handing down from generation to generation.

Director of To Dragma and Archives Even as you read this, Collegiate and Alumnae Chapters all over the
Mariellen Perkinson Sasseen, Alpha Delta (U of Alabama) U.S. and Canada are gathering for Founders’ Day events. Most events
will include a traditional candlelight tribute to each Founder and
Creative Director the collection of money for the AOII Ruby Fund. Other traditional
Whitney Frazier, Rho Omicron (Middle TN State U) activities might be more unique to each chapter, such as presenting
major awards and honoring seniors. Even if you don’t attend an
Women Enriched through Lifelong Friendship. organized event, I hope everyone will take a minute to ip to
page 66 to read the Founders’ Day Messages from the AOII
Alpha Omicron Pi was founded at Barnard College in Executive Board and the Ruby Fund Committee, traditionally read
New York City, January 2, 1897, by Jessie Wallace Hughan, at all Founders’ Day gatherings.
Helen St. Clair Mullan, Stella George Stern Perry &
Elizabeth Heywood Wyman. Whether this time of year nds you participating in treasured family
traditions or joining in meaningful AOII traditions, my hope is
International President that each of you will remain focused on the essential reason we are
Allison Allgier, Epsilon Omega (Eastern Kentucky U) celebrating our traditions in the rst place.

Executive Director Regards,
Troylyn LeForge, Beta Phi (Indiana U)
Mariellen Perkinson Sasseen
Alpha Omicron Pi is a member of the National Panhellenic Alpha Delta (U of Alabama)
Conference and the Fraternity Communications Association. Director of To Dragma and Archives

4 • To Dragma Issue no. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013

CAMLAERKNYDOUARRS

AOII’s 2014 leadership events boast inspirational keynotes, incredible breakout sessions
and many ways to connect with AOIIs from across North America!

Leadership Academy 2014

#Lifetime

FOatTCeCrnawuLahDwhbldihuirAmiinsatriarma.lohiplpui2ynMnrnrenAt0mlageneeea1aaO,trumre4reruayb,akAnIrdewItlien7nThdawnvLsi-atelfvitettlo9istoyliafwepelsf,leoeodedcrrr2iavctarareito.h0tsesuhcmrufc,i1nAsstenreuCiph4tecwfcasstithuehp,soecliaeslebhlslrcAplarhbeuotcecdtchageiemhoflaeirdresrailoedrmnlipPestnneseghhgrthugxmee,lrieniippeafasrryei.deeeitncadet,lir-adiasneidmietcntdanibaihnnsoentyrgpagcsnaeeopt,eiisrwrnnapnethaaegsniedipintnptrdahro,oditasgnaorarA,tmmegntilwuloucmdu,uionamnnCmcefyimagtunAhsnnlylae,ilttstadfrmoe,ooietaen,CofriruaRinengAnPtcseiwmecensOhflowagtooaamhItrInri.ieopienododtxfrohneifirpnfAreesacoave.iResrrtoriCrottnlso,vfgsefidce.

Leadership Institute 2014
In Focus!
June 27-29, 2014

SAaeissOAsInptnpiOeenIoseIrrvttIIhcgiIolnt’itosgyulsFvoLhtieooendetdcfa,oiAsuAdRiuOnsaOiertiIaurgngIIs.IarcihJytfeloht,oioapslLauiltneeatArognahhlcpididafuaaepventde?eeordexsrioArphmmteurietpdypnarL,siiilaeetsuScoyanmeftfodcferonsecvediraiussrcsaetyseaehloels,cridupALshwreaOfoIorlngpinofImsaIetmtessceipairtysnuan,eotctdeScorerrcifonfihs2hAosco0-ostlwo1wp!lNa4fhhyfir,osaoecyhretouOtihhrpucsem’—h,AlrlLioycmhheooroooaeusndwnreieaecPtdrarioeinso.ahfcooWsyiupnocwrhuurmeeislkenayetnoleyyupr
AhpLaDaOCernovarhdI.efIdeaLsJtepsoihassrtremstieioehHroern!ipsapsaIrjlpIRnutndoosoasetrbtdftvilituCidelkuoneilatottiemittyopayownpmtouioutlef.lossCnipnhttaehcaamlaeruneksdpdeabueonwesedfpsefixtelcaclp-aeniktrkrinaantacolgrunatwimdsicnnpe—nienssapagbafkeanroeoacdprmkkspeebsxroAuysprO,ctpepuhIorIeni’aepsirstsnuDioeRclaesneicr,lastkydalwoBaeDuinmatehdrwanltineallds —

AOII’s 2014 events are certainly ones not to miss. So, make your plans today - start fundraising, talking to your
corporations, and encouraging your sisters to join you! What better way to share our sisterhood than at AOII’s
International Events! Both of AOII’s 2014 Leadership events will take place at the Franklin Marriott Cool Springs
in Franklin, TN. Look for more information coming in monthly editions of THE PIPER and on the AOII website.

FraternityNews

Colonization is an exciting time for the Fraternity and the women who have become charter members of their chapters. From selecting the
chapter’s name and submotto to electing new o cers and building new traditions, there is so much to accomplish in six short weeks. During
the Fall of 2013, AOII successfully recolonized one chapter and colonized three others. These four chapters have risen to the challenge with
amazing success. At press time, Alpha Pi and Sigma Theta have been installed and you can read more about them beginning on page 10.
Look for installation articles on Phi Gamma and Alpha Rho in the Spring 2014 issue.

A special thank you to our colonization team members and collegiate chapters who sent members to assist with each e ort. Alumnae support
for each chapter is expected to be strong, but additional help is always welcome. Contact Kaya Miller at [email protected] if you are
interested in working with any of the following new chapters.

Florida State University Sam Houston State University
Alpha Pi Sigma Theta

• Re-Colonization Dates: September 6-8, 2013 • Colonization Dates: September 20-22, 2013
• Colonizing Officer: Susan Danko • Colonizing Officer: Susan Danko
• Colonization Team: Susan Danko, Carole Jones, Renée Hebert, • Colonization Team: Susan Danko, Ravon Brooks, Jenna Lutz,

Jane Tessmer, Kaya Miller, Andrea Theobald, Lindsay Stoltz, Kaya Miller, Hillary Stewart, Helen Block, Mandy Hedstrom,
Mary Kate Sweeney, Mary Catherine Stewart, Morgan Butler, Mary Catherine Stewart
Laura Johnson • AOII Collegiate Chapter Assistance: Lambda Rho, Delta
• AOII Collegiate Chapter Assistance: Gamma Delta, Alpha Delta, Theta, Upsilon Lambda
Pi Theta, Gamma Omicron
Oregon State University
Georgia College & State University Alpha Rho
Phi Gamma

• Colonization Dates: September 6-8, 2013 • Re-Colonization Dates: October 19– 22, 2013
• Colonizing Officer: Grace Houston • Colonizing Officer: Gayle Fitzpatrick
• Colonization Team: Grace Houston, Kristen Phelps, Lauren Stern, • Colonization Team: Gayle Fitzpatrick, Laura Johnson, Amanda

Morgan Harkrider, Kara Mantooth, Heather Hays, Kathy Andrews, Gilpin, Nicole Claudon, Heather Hays, Debbie Tam, Liz Pietsch,
Kimberly Sons, Jodie Hassall, Blair Dudley Troy LeForge, Amy Jo Gabel, Meredith Dunn, Phyllis Austin
• AOII Collegiate Chapter Assistance: Alpha Lambda, Beta Zeta, • AOII Collegiate Chapter Assistance: Tau Gamma, Upsilon
Lambda Sigma
Issue no. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013
6 • To Dragma

Milestone Anniversaries New Alumnae
Chapter Installations
Congratulations to each of these chapters
on years of sisterhood, memories and life- The Greater Gadsden Alumnae Chapter
long commitment to Alpha Omicron Pi!
was installed on Sunday, August 25. Grace Houston served
25 Years Alpha Psi (Bowling Green State U) as the Installing O cer. Carol McCord, Alpha Delta (U
of Alabama) was elected President. You may email your
Installed April 15, 1989 congratulations to her at [email protected].

Delta Psi (SUNY at Albany) The Rhode Island Alumnae Chapter

Installed April 29, 1989 was installed on Sunday, September 29. Amber Countis
served as the Installing O cer. Christina Pastorello,
Lambda Eta (Grand Valley State U) Delta (Tufts U) was elected President. You may email
your congratulations to her at [email protected].
Installed May 6, 1989
AOII Founders' Storytelling CD
Tau Gamma (Eastern Washington U) Now Available for Purchase

Installed May 6, 1989 A long-standing tradition during the Founders’ lifetimes was
hosting a Convention Storytelling Session with collegiate
Lake County of Illinois AC members where they shared early Fraternity history and favorite
AOII memories. The only recording in the AOII archives of a
Installed Nov. 6, 1988 storytelling session is from the 1951 Convention in Glenwood
Springs, Colorado. A portion of this recording was featured during
50 Years Northern Kentucky AC educational sessions for LI 2012 and Convention 2013. Duplicates
on CD are now available for purchase by AOII chapters and
Installed Nov. 13, 1988 members for $12 each. To acquire a copy, contact Natalie Cherry
at [email protected], or chapter o cers may complete a
Theta Omega (Northern Arizona U) supply order form in the O cer Resource Library.

Installed Nov. 23, 1963

75 Years Greater Jackson AC

Installed Dec. 6, 1963

Kappa Phi (McGill U)

Installed March 25, 1939

Greater Miami AC

Installed Nov. 14, 1938

Upcoming Spring 2014 Colonizations

California State U, Chico U of California, San Diego

The colonization of our chapter The recolonization of our Lambda Iota Chapter at the U
at California State U, Chico (also of California, San Diego will take place early Spring 2014.
known as Chico State) will take UCSD is located in Lo Jolla, California, and is home to
place in Spring 2014. Located in Chico, California, Chico more than 29,000 students. AOII will be the 11th NPC
State is a public institution with more than 15,000 students. chapter on campus joining Alpha Chi Omega, Alpha
AOII will be joining ve other NPC organizations already in Epsilon Phi, Chi Omega, Delta Delta Delta, Delta Gamma,
place on the campus: Alpha Delta Pi, Alpha Gamma Delta, Kappa Alpha Theta, Kappa Kappa Gamma, Phi Sigma Rho,
Alpha Phi, Gamma Phi Beta and Sigma Kappa. Pi Beta Phi and Sigma Kappa.

Members of Epsilon Gamma
(U of Northern Colorado) having
fun during a fall sisterhood event.

Viewpoint

While serving over the past two and a half years as AOII’s
International President, I’ve had the honor and privilege
of installing 16 chapters into our growing organization.
One of the best aspects of an installation is the time spent
meeting and getting to know the colony members the
evening before installation. AOII has offered an exceptional
member experience to thousands of women, and it is always
heart-warming to hear their stories of close friendships and
strong bonds developed often in just a short period of time.

While traveling for AOII, members often share with
me how they have benefitted due to the support and
guidance provided by their sisters. What conflicts greatly
with the values of our organization is the culture that
has developed related to Bystander Behavior (see related
article on page 30). With social media outlets providing
many opportunities to view and read about friends’ lives
as they happen, it seems society has developed a norm of
“watching.” The result, at times, is that we sit by and allow our closest friends to put themselves in
risky situations. We don’t step-in to protect our sisters from themselves and/or from others. As a
member of AOII at any age, we are asked to be that friend whom our sisters should have no fear to
call. Don’t wait for the call; act with love and have the courage to take care of one another.

Speaking of courage, AOII was founded 117 years ago by four phenomenal women to perpetuate
their strong friendship and their love for one another. At this time of year when we celebrate AOII’s
beginning, it is appropriate for us each to reflect on the oath we took at initiation. Are we living the
values our Founders so delicately put into place?

As the Founders’ Day Message shares, Stella stated, “For you are the Founders of AOII as clearly
as were we; and we set in your hands, with confidence, a great destiny and great service and a
great joy.” It takes each of us to make a positive impact. What part will you play in advancing
our great Fraternity?

Founders’ Day is the perfect time to celebrate the great joy and responsibility of friendship and
membership in AOII!

Allison Allgier To Dragma • 9
International President

Issue no. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013

Reinstallation of our 37th Chapter

Alpha Pi - Florida State University

Submotto Alpha Omicron Pi was thrilled to welcome our 37th collegiate chapter back
to active status on November 10, 2013. Allison Allgier, AOII’s International
L A E urin President, was the installing officer for the Alpha Pi Chapter at Florida State
U in Tallahassee, Florida. Alumnae and collegians from the area celebrated
10 • To Dragma the Initiation and Installation of the chapter with our newest sisters of AOII.

Two hundred and four collegiate members were initiated into AOII
membership after a semester of development and growth as a colony.
Alpha Pi’s original submotto “Love All Enduring” still typifies the chapter’s
distinguishing characteristics that have resonated throughout the FSU
campus and community.

The installation weekend started with the Ceremony of Transition, a time for
the colony members and their AAC volunteers to share reflections on the
nine-week journey they embarked on together from Colonization through
Installation. The next morning, the colony convened again to be initiated,
to be installed as Alpha Pi, and to install the officers they had elected just a
few weeks earlier. At the Rose Banquet that afternoon, friends and family of
the colony members as well as representatives from Florida State’s fraternity
and sorority community were all able to celebrate the accomplishments of
the charter class. In her speech to the assembled guests, Kate Lazarus, the
newly elected Alpha Pi Chapter President, said, “I have grown to love this
chapter so much in such a short amount of time. I wish that everyone could
see how dedicated and passionate each and every one of my sisters are. We
have over 200 women constantly coming up with new ideas, and figuring
out ways to take Alpha Pi to the next level, which has already lead us to have
an extremely positive and strong presence on campus! I can’t express how
honored I am that all of these beautiful women have put their trust in me to
represent them, but I want them to know how confident I am in us reaching
our full potential this year, and in the future. In being such a new group on
campus, I never expected to feel so secure in the fact that we will have no
problems reaching the bright future we are working towards.”

Alpha Pi chapter members will continue to develop and grow their
sisterhood and outreach to the FSU community. The future is indeed bright
for this wonderful new chapter!

Issue No. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013

Alpha Pi Charter Members

Colony Activities Kelsey Abberger Nikki Duggal Shannon Kilheeney Alexis Rosen
Sana Amarasinghi Madison Duncan Nicole Kim Alexandria Roth
• Chapter participated in Dance Meredith Anderson Bailey Dunn Halsey Kinne Zoey Rothwell
Ruken Aymaz Jessica Durgan Emily Kissel Amanda Rounds
Marathon Dancer Week, Zeta Kelsie Bailey Samantha Dworkin Leslie Klein Tayler Ruth
Tau Alpha’s 5K run, Pi Beta Phi’s Carsen Bascetta Jillian Eiland Megan Knight Elana Samuels
Spaghetti Dinner Philanthropy, Delta Claire Beaver Cecile Entleitner Bailey Koch Shana Sasko
Zeta’s Hamburgers for Hearing event Tatiana-Rose Becker Zoe Evangelides Kayleigh Koskan Mackenzie Sawyer
and Chi Omega’s Kiss for Soldiers. Helen Bennett Colleen Evers Alexis Kostecki Alexandra Schlechte
Kelly Berlet Helena Faria Colleen Koubek Rachel Seiden
• Other activities included, Order of Kaitlin Bezold Danielle Fernandez Jessica Lamb Samantha Siegel
Brittany Bly Alexis Fineberg Ashley Landolfi Madison Skidgel
Omega’s Trick or Treat on Greek Michelle Boughan Jillian Flynn Kristen Larsen Kristin Slaman
Street, pumpkin painting with the Francesca Bove Kerri Fouchet Marykate Lavell Allena Smith
men of Theta Chi, Halloween movie Isabella Bovero Courtney Franks Kate Lazarus Sydney Smith
night with the men of Beta Theta Pi, Kayla Braden Kaili Frye Haley LeFiles Melody Solomon
Alpha Delta Pi’s Movie on the Green Rachael Brooks Kassandra Garcia Juana Lopez-Sanmiguel Alexandra Spencer
event, and assisted with FSU’s Army Madison Browder Rachael Garcia Erika Love Joie Stadelnikas
ROTC Stadium Clean-up after home Sofia Brumbaugh Sara Gears Lindsey Lovering Taylor Starkey
football games. Caitlin Bullock Alina Glatkowski Sophia Magley Brandi Stevens
Amanda Burkett Christie Gleason Rachel Malinari Carly Stevens
Amanda Byars Christina Gloyd Monica Martinez Taylor Stoeckert
Sandra Cabezas Kathleen Goldberg Dana Matz Katherine Stokoe
Kelsey Calderone Latoya Goncalves Olivia Ann May Alexandra Stricoff
Kacey Call Gabriella Gonzalez Danielle McArn Catherine Studstill
Amanda Captain Lacy Goode Rachel McCombs Catherine Sullivan
Sallie Caputi-Richards Khloe Greenwood Morgan McDowell Jillian Sullivan
Taylor Carley Sara Griffin Emilee McGann Lindsay Sullivan
Carisa Carmack Clarissa Guerrero Erin McLachlan Lauren Swain
Erica Chervony Rebecca Gunnell Kasandra Meiler Laura Szostak
Karina Colon Erin Hajduk Katelyn Mencke Elinor Taieb
Kathryn Conrad Rachel Halim Amber Milenkevich Lauren Tarr
Kaitlyn Cook Samantha Hall Marah Miller Lauren Teller
Courtney Cooper Sydney Hanna McKenna Mulvany Sandra Thomas
Kristen Crawford Kaylee Hartman Catherine Munns Sarah Timoti
Kendal Cristaudo Stella Dominique Herad Haley Nahas Danielle Tomasso
Kelly Crocker Cristina Hernandez Courtney Nanke Andi Tomko-Williams
Michelle Crowe Sierra Hernandez Francesca Otero-Vargas Emmalee Tresnan
Whitney Davis Victoria Hernandez Kimberly Palmer Samantha Tritch
Kelcey Day Lia Hiers Samantha Pankey Caitlyn Troup
Daniela Daza Taylor Hilton Hartley Pawloski Brooke Vilardebo
Ariana De Stefano Melissa Ho Victoria Peralta-Rapale Lauren Wade
Caitlyn DeGuzman Dawn Holland Kendyl Perkins Shelby Walker
Brittany Della Noce Olivia Houghton Lauren Philmus Felicia Warren
Victoria DeSimone Malory Hudson Brittany Poteet Tamara Watson
Andrea Diaz Tori Johnston Nisha Prabhu Brooke Weikle
Brittany Drenth Morgan Karwoski Jeana Pruim Amelia Weiss
Kirsten D’Souza Dominique Kelly Alexa Ramirez Cortney Weissenborn
Sarah Raynor Bianca Wiesler
Daphne Ren Kelli Wilkinson
Renata Rios Lindsey Wilson-Griffith
Evelyn Ripsom Lauren Winfield
Celeste Roche Rodriguez Logan Young
Estefania Rodriguez Madeleine Zeichner

Issue No. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013 Fun Fact

Three members will be
traveling to Jamaica
over spring break for a
community service trip with
the FSU Greek life office for
Alternative Spring Break.

To Dragma • 11

199th Chapter Installation
Sigma Theta - Sam Houston State University

Alpha Omicron Pi welcomed lovingly our 199th chartered collegiate current boyfriend joined a Fraternity, I was so captivated by Greek
chapter as we installed the Sigma Theta Chapter at Sam Houston life that I had to join. The very next week, the emails for AOII came
State U on November 24, 2013. The day was a wonderful celebration in. I still toyed with whether or not I was right for it. Was I the type of
of our newest members of AOII. Allison Allgier, International person they were looking for? Would my schedule allow for another
President, was the installing officer and presided over the time-consuming commitment? I would constantly find myself on the
celebratory weekend events. website, reading the values, and finally I decided that’s the woman
I wanted to be. I signed up for an appointment the day before they
AOII initiated 82 collegiate members into AOII membership after started and then the butterflies and nerves began to settle in. You
nine weeks of development and growth as a colony. The chapter could say there was a ‘Panda Rumble’ in my tummy all weekend.
will be represented by the phrase “Strength through Sisterhood” Bid day came and of course I was like a little kid waiting to go to
as their submotto. Disneyland. I could not sleep until that phone call came!”

Beginning with their colonization weekend, the colony members She continued: “Our women are really taking to heart our submotto,
began a whirlwind journey together towards installation. Their first ‘Strength through Sisterhood,’ and growing more than I could have
Chapter President, Kaylee Austin, summed up the experience of imagined. In the coming semesters I see our organization creating
joining a brand new colony.“Initially I wasn’t even sure I wanted to many unbreakable bonds and bringing together people no one would
join a sorority. As an incoming freshman a few years ago I thought have ever expected. We are so excited to make a difference not only
that I wanted to rush but my family talked me out of it. When my on campus, but also internationally within Alpha Omicron Pi.”

12 • To Dragma Issue No. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013

Submotto

Stren t thr Sisterh

Sigma Theta Charter Members

Emily Acker Kayla Hamilton Amanda Sanchez
Janice Aleman Angela Heiny Aimee Sanchez
Bianca Arana Laurin Hoffpauir Kourtney Schaeffer
Kaylee Austin Brittney Hubert Amanda Sherer
Halley Backus Shanieka Humphry Rebecka Smith
Taylor Baker Brooke Hutson Lea Sonby
Caitlin Bentley Chancy Johnson Autumn Stallings
Katie Bledsoe Bobbie Kenny Harley Surette
Elizabeth Bryant Heather Kilway Melissa Templeton
Stacie Burchfield Nicole Kinsey Jessica Thornton
Katelyn Burrell Erica Kuhlman Dallas Tippett
Selena Christofferson Sabra Lanberg Emilee Traylor
Elizabeth Churaman Haley Little Victoria Tyler
Zina Coburn Alexandra Martinez Nabil Valenzuela
Vallerie Coreas Amanda Matthys Chelsea Valtierra
Tiffany Cougot Megan McBride Briana Villarreal
Christina Cross Deanna Medrano Summer Williams
Hadley Davis Ashley Mendoza Miranda Zapata
Shannon DeBord Elsa Mendoza
Bragging Rights Daniela Delacruz Valeri Michna
Vanessa Depaz Shannon Miley
• Member Kourtney Schaeffer was on Homecoming court Veronica Dimas Makenzie Mosier
• Intramural soccer team made reached the playoffs Lindsey Dominguez Torie Nance
• Chapter placed 2nd place in Greek Sync Kate Donovan Paige Nohavitza
• Chapter finished 3rd Overall in their first Greek Week Erin Eakin Alicia Norman
Alexandria Falato Glamour Perry
Rebekah Flaschke Joy Peterangelo
Adriana Flores Elise Reader
Hannah Fouts Jennifer Reyna
Brenda Galindo Cyndy Rivas
Melissa Gonzales Ashley Robbennolt
Taylor Guest Alexis Rodriguez

Issue No. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013 To Dragma • 13

Now Boarding
for New Experiences

By Meredith Dunn, Tau Omicron (U of Tennessee Martin),
AssbisytaMnet rDeidreitchtoDruonfnC, hTauptOermSiecrovince(Us of Tennessee - Martin),

Assistant Director of Chapter Services

As deÿned by Merriam-Webster, travel is a verb with a simple
meaning: “to go on a trip or journey; to go to a place and
especially one that is far away.” Ask anyone who has ever
embarked on a trip, and you are likely to get a response similar
to the explanation above. Meet some of our sisters who
have put their own experiences into the deÿnition of travel
through a study abroad program. Each story is as unique as
the journey they embarked on because, for these AOIIs, their
adventure was so much more than a simple trip.

Embark on your own unique journey>
Check with your university for –stuudtiylizaebrtohaedupnriovgerrasimtys and wlohcaotiwonanotptpooarntuswnietrieqs!ueYstoiuondsoann’td
have to start this journey alone sta

>>hAoNenllsoploytyaabolselkupaapwrbolaaognrurd.atemsdcshtoaorlseatruashdlieikpnest,sasnowddhgoorsaaornemt smetuordensyeeiyanrg–chambaranondaydu!nndivtehresiotinees have funds set aside that can
that suits you best!

From two weeks to six months, the world is waiting for you to explore!

14• To Dragma Issue no. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013

Alison Williams, Delta (Tufts U)
Travel Abroad Location: Scotland

Wanting to immerse herself in the rich literary history of the United Kingdom,
Alison Williams had no trouble selecting Edinburgh, Scotland as her study abroad
location. Exploring options with an adviser in the study abroad o˜ ce at Tufts,
Alison selected the program with the U of Edinburgh. “The adviser encouraged
me to pick a place that was somewhat outside of the norm – a lot of my friends
were planning on going to London, so I decided that I would head further north to somewhere in
Scotland. Being in Edinburgh also allowed me the opportunity to take trips to nearby cities such as
Dublin and Amsterdam.”

One of Alison’s favorite memories from her four-month experience was during a quick trip to
several new locations. “My friends and I took a three-day bus trip to the Scottish Highlands. Our
tour guide was hilarious and he kept us laughing during the long bus rides in between stops. We
explored tons of di° erent locations – famous old castles (including Doune Castle which is used in TV
and movies like Monty Python and the Holy Grail, and Game of Thrones!), Glencoe, Loch Ness, historic
battlegrounds, and even the beautiful Isle of Skye.”

Along the way, Alison realized that sometimes even the best preparations cannot match up to
the adventures to be had while traveling. “I spent weeks packing and getting ready to ship o° to
Edinburgh, but I deÿnitely wasn’t expecting some of the challenges and fabulous experiences that lay
ahead of me.”

One such adventure left her and her friends in a bind, but only for a short while. “My friends and I
were trying to take the bus back to our ˝ at when we accidentally ended up a few miles outside the
city on the wrong bus line. The bus we did get on stopped in the middle of nowhere and the driver
left without realizing we were on the upper deck! Eventually we found our way back on a di° erent
bus. That happened within our ÿrst couple of weeks, so I freaked out a little about being lost, but it
was a pretty hilarious time.”

Alison also learned about herself during her travel study and shared, “I learned that I’m able to pretty
easily adapt to new locations. It didn’t take me long to settle in and feel comfortable in the city, and I
developed a much better sense of direction while there than I had when I ÿrst arrived. I also learned
that I can make an amazing Thanksgiving dinner even when outside of the United States –
I introduced some of my British friends to Thanksgiving!”

Alison’s advice: “Even if you can only go for a couple of weeks, it’s an amazing way to expand your
worldview and discover things about yourself while you are still in college.”

Amelia Cohen, Delta (Tufts U)
Travel Abroad Location: Spain

During the fall of 2012, Amelia Cohen called Alcalá de Henares, Spain home for
four months. Located right outside of Madrid, the city gave Amelia the chance to be
immersed in both the language and culture of Spain. “I wanted to be able to get both
a small town and city experience, which I did. The town I lived in was one of the
most beautiful places I have ever been. It had the most amazing environment, people
were really friendly, and there was always so much going on. During my stay, there
were three festivals and a medieval fair!”

Amelia took four classes while abroad with one of those being a ˜ amenco dance
class that she described as “a ton of fun.” “I got to know everyone in the class and
rarely had any language issues. One week, a new person came to class and we started
talking as we walked out together. When I responded to one of her questions with
my unfortunately very obvious accent, she was incredibly surprised. By the way I had
acted in class, so comfortable and accepted, she had just assumed I was a Spaniard. It
was a really cool experience!”

Not only did Amelia learn in the classroom, she grew to better
appreciate the culture and the world we live in. “The students
I met had conversations so similar to the ones I have with my
friends in the United States. I really learned that at the end of

the day, all people are pretty similar, and that was an inspiring
lesson. People are not really that di° erent regardless of where
you are.”

Amelia had the unique experience to not only travel to a
foreign country, but to travel there with two of her AOII
sisters from Delta Chapter. “One of the hardest parts was
just being in an unfamiliar place with primarily unfamiliar

people. Luckily for me, having two of my sisters with me
was extremely helpful. They helped me feel safe and secure
in a very overwhelming situation.”

Amelia’s advice: “Deÿnitely do it! It’s a little scary going
to a new environment but completely worth it!”

16 • To Dragma Issue no. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013

Carli Williams, Omega (Miami U) To Dragma • 17
Travel Abroad Location: France, Germany

Taking advantage of Miami U’s European Center in Luxembourg, Carli Williams
looked at the chance to study abroad as an once-in-a-lifetime experience. The direct
link between her university and the center overseas helped make the connection even
easier. “The campus in Luxembourg allowed me to take business classes as well as history
and anthropology classes that directly transferred. Our program has a unique study tour
component. Two of your courses include a week-long study tour where you, your class,
and your professor travel to observe and interact with what you have been studying.”

One example of this study tour took Carli and her classmates to Catalonia, the Spanish
state where Barcelona is located. “My Multiculturalism in Europe course explored
di˜ erent identities and minorities and how they are treated all over Europe. The state
of Catalonia speaks a di˜ erent language and has many cultural traditions and identities
that di˜ er from Spain. On our tour, a local community group invited us to help them
make a traditional meal and allowed us to interact with them in a debate/discussion.
This trip also included a visit to a local communal living area, learning dances from
locals, understanding the Indian in° uence in Barcelona through food, and visits to many
important locations/historical venues.”

Of all the things Carli learned from her travel abroad program, one message in
communication came from someone other than a professor. “While volunteering
at a childcare center, I realized that even though the students and I had no common
language, they embraced me and I them. One third grader, Isa, a native Portuguese
speaker, patiently communicated with me solely through body language. Although
Isa called me teacher, she taught me more about cross-cultural communication than
she will ever realize. Through Isa and other students at the center, I learned that I
can communicate with others in new ways and handle unfamiliar and
uncomfortable situations.”

The hardest part of Carli’s travel abroad program was coming home!
“Adapting to coming back was much harder than adapting to anything in
Europe. Reminiscing and realizing you cannot go back right now is really
hard. I would return to Luxembourg in a heartbeat, but I would also jump
at the chance to explore all of Europe or almost anywhere in the world.”

Carli’s advice: “Do it, do it, do it! If you don’t go, you will regret it. Also,
don’t go with a close group of friends. Go in a new group and put yourself
out there. Allow yourself to be uncomfortable and even a bit awkward at
times – it helps you grow!”

Issue no. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013

18 • To Dragma Carolyn Saund, Delta (Tufts U)
Travel Abroad Location: New Zealand

From June to December of 2013, the gorgeous scenery of New Zealand has been a reality for
Carolyn Saund. With academics guiding her, Carolyn made the decision to take a variety of courses
from the U of Canterbury, located in Christchurch. “I knew I wanted to take really academically
rigorous classes and for me that meant traveling somewhere that spoke English. I took two classes
that transfer into both my majors (Computer Science and Cognitive Science), so it’s like four classes
towards my majors. In addition, I took an Indigenous Knowledge class which fulÿ lls a World
Civilizations requirement at my school, and a class called Land Journeys and Ethics which was tons
of fun! My courses for my majors were rigorous and informative, and the others gave me a great
perspective on subjects I would never have taken at my home university.”

As Carolyn tells about how famous New Zealand is for outdoor adventure and recreational beauty,
she helps paint a portrait of what she experienced. “After spending the night, we woke up in a hut on
top of Mount Fy° e over the Kaikoura Peninsula. It was snowing lightly, but there was enough sun
poking through to make the dawn light up with red and orange streaks across the sky and through
the entire valley below. It made for the best start of another breathtakingly gorgeous day!”

Getting used to the culture has been a lesson that did not appear as easily to Carolyn as the beautiful
landscapes. “Hitch-hiking is legal in New Zealand and is also the way that most young, college
tourists get around. Once my friend and I were hitch-hiking to a beautiful lake, and the man who
picked us up went almost an hour out of his way to take us exactly where we wanted to go. He
bought us lunch and co° ee, gave us some frozen venison he happened to have in a cooler, and o° ered
for us to use his guest house with his niece for a few nights. At the time we were freaked out because
he was a little too friendly, but this kind of thing is so common there! He was just a genuinely
friendly guy who hoped we had a nice time in his country. The hospitality is incredible.”

That friendly spirit has rubbed o° on Carolyn who has made the most of her time with the people
around her. “I’ve made so many friends here, so I’ll deÿnitely be back sometime in my life. But the
world is so big and so many places are just begging to be explored! I’m hoping some of the friends
I’ve made here will join me on my travels elsewhere!”

Carolyn’s advice: “DO IT! I have learned so much about myself and gained so much conÿdence
coming abroad. There is nothing better you can do for yourself or your personal development than
push your limits and just go there.”

Issue no. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013

Jennifer Stessel, Iota Theta (Monmouth U)
Travel Abroad Location: Spain

In the summer of 2012, Jennifer Stessel spent six weeks on
a small peninsula in the Atlantic Ocean known as Cadiz,
Spain. “I had always wanted to study abroad, and once I
learned about this program I knew I had to go. Cadiz looked
amazing, and I knew I would fall in love instantly because of
my passion for the beach and summertime.”

“While on my travels, I learned that I am actually more independent than I thought. I never imagined
I could live 3,000 miles away from home for a month and a half without feeling homesick, but I did. I
realized that studying abroad made me a stronger and more compassionate person, and that without it,
I would not be the woman that I am today.” With her streak of independence, Jennifer indulged in an
activity that she won’t soon forget. “My favorite memory was participating in a ‘local’ tradition. The locals
jump o˜ a bridge into the ocean everyday at high tide and make a ritual out of it. After about three weeks
in Cadiz, some friends and I decided it was time for us to join in on the fun and we jumped o˜ the bridge
with the locals. It was a liberating and awesome experience, and I am so glad I got to do it.”

As with most travel stories, Jennifer remembers a particular encounter that will also stand out.
“Looking back now, the funniest moment would have to be when a monkey came into our van when
we traveled to Gibraltar for a weekend. We were taking a tour of the Rock of Gibraltar, and at this
location there are free roaming monkeys who literally walk up and down the streets with people.
While heading to a certain spot to get a closer look, a monkey came into our van and started jumping
from seat to seat. Everyone panicked and ran out of the van, even though the driver had it all planned!”

Not only did Jennifer pick up an unwanted guest in her van, she also picked up an appetite for
adventure. “Living in the United States is kind of like living in a bubble, and many times people only
believe that the world consists of their state and the U.S. However, studying abroad made me realize
there is so much more out there in the world to see. There are so many people and more cultures that
are waiting to be experienced, and I just want to see everything now because of this!”

Jennifer’s advice:
“It is so important to live
in the moment and try to
experience di˜ erent things
that you would never
experience back home.
Studying abroad was
the absolute best decision
to ever make, and I
would recommend it
to any student.”

Issue no. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013 To Dragma • 19

20• To Dragma Kaitlyn Baklarz, Iota Theta (Monmouth U)
Travel Abroad Location: England

Growing up, Kaitlin Baklarz always dreamed of living in other countries. Her fascination with
people, languages and other cultures has not only fueled her dreams, but has helped guide her
academic pursuits as well. As a senior Business Administration major with a concentration in
International Business, Kaitlin jumped at the opportunity to study abroad. “I thought that studying
abroad would allow me the opportunity to travel, meet people from all around the world, and learn
about myself. Also, being an International Business major, I thought that studying abroad would
provide me with an invaluable learning experience outside of the classroom.”

The decision for Kaitlin to embark on a travel study was much easier than deciding
where to go. “It was a di˜ cult decision to choose which country to study abroad
in. My cousin was actually a major in° uence in my decision to ultimately study
in London, England. She had recently transferred to my university and was
looking at study abroad programs as well. My cousin had her heart set on
studying in London, and I thought that we would have a wonderful experience if

we went together.”

The choice of traveling to England proved to be a good one for Kaitlin as she
would travel to 14 additional countries and four islands during her stay from
August to December. “My favorite memory from studying abroad was when I
saw the Ei˛ el Tower for the ÿrst time. Having studied the French language and
culture since I was in middle school, it had always been my dream to see the
Ei˛ el Tower. It really hit me that one of my dreams had just come true.”

Meeting so many people came with a few interesting encounters. Kaitlin
recalls, “I had many travel mishaps along the way. However, one experience
in particular stands out. My cousin and I were taking a cab from Paris back
to our hotel. Our cab driver was driving extra slow so that he could charge
us more money. My cousin asked our driver if he could drive faster but he
claimed that he did not speak English. Fortunately for us, I speak French! I
translated the conversation between my cousin and the driver, and that was

when he realized he was not going to get away with ripping us o˛ . At the
time it was very frustrating because we had little control over the situation,
but looking back, my cousin and I still laugh at this story today.”

Not only did Kaitlin get to explore parts of the world, she also took courses
in classical music, theatre, business management, and macroeconomics
through Regent’s U in London. “I had to learn how to balance my
schoolwork with traveling, how to manage my budget, and how to meet
new people. If I knew then what I know now about studying in London,
I would do it all over again - choosing to study at Regent’s was one of the

best decisions that I have ever made.”

Kaitlin’s advice: “My advice to those who are considering studying abroad
is to take the next step and actually go. There are so many wonderful
places in the world to visit, and learning about other customs and cultures
opens your mind to new ideas and ways of living.”

Issue no. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013

Kelsey Schranze, Sigma Beta (Saint Joseph’s U)
Travel Abroad Location: Copenhagen, Denmark

As a student majoring in Interdisciplinary Health Services with a minor in
Healthcare Ethics, Kelsey Schranze knew she wanted a study abroad program
with a unique twist. Kelsey enrolled in the Medical Practice and Policy program
with the Danish Institute for Study Abroad, or DIS for short. “I started looking
up healthcare study abroad programs, and the one at DIS was one of the rst hits
on my Google search. I started researching it and realized that the program was
perfect for me.”

Kelsey’s enrollment in the program allowed her to live in Copenhagen, Denmark
for four months during the fall of 2012. During this time, she took four classes, all
of which counted for her university back in the states. “All of my classes transferred
as credit. They also counted as particular course requirements that you need from
Saint Joseph’s University. For example, I needed to take a class about any sort of
diversity, and my course in Denmark called Muslims in the West counted for that.”
Among the classes Kelsey took, one called Human Health and Disease – A Clinical
Approach provided a very hands-on approach. “We learned about all types of
diseases and treatments along with human anatomy and physiology. Doctors taught
the class, and as part of the lab, we got to learn how to insert urinary catheters, put in IVs,
and suture.”

One of the more memorable experiences from her study abroad program was seeing the birth
of a baby. “As part of my program, I got to shadow doctors in a few di erent countries. While
I was in Poznan, Poland, I walked into the operating room in the middle of a cesarean section.
I was standing right next to the mother while she was on the operating table, and I got to see
the mother’s face when she saw her baby for the rst time. It was incredible!” Kelsey looks
back now and realizes what a rare opportunity this really was. “There are a lot of patient
con dentiality rules in hospitals in the United States that will not allow students to see these
sorts of procedures, so I am very fortunate to have been able to see it during my time abroad.”

“I learned a lot about myself in my academic life. In my classes in Copenhagen, I was truly
interested in what we were learning about. I participated in classes more than I ever had in
college. It gave me more con dence in the classroom, and I brought that back to Saint Joseph’s
with me. Since my semester abroad, my grades have been better than ever - probably because I
am actively participating more in all my classes.”

When asked the hardest part about her study abroad program, Kelsey answers with a hint of
foretelling the future. “The hardest part was choosing countries to travel to and activities to do.
I only had four months to do everything I wanted. There were
some things I did not get to see, but it only reinforces the
need for me to go back to Europe. I would absolutely
love to go back to Copenhagen. Maybe someday, I will
live there.”

Kelsey’s advice: “Do everything you can do and see
everything you can! Don’t waste any of your time…make
the best of it!”

Lesley Wellener, Delta (Tufts U)
Travel Abroad Location: Chile

A junior International Relations major, Lesley Wellener will have spent six consecutive months
in Santiago, Chile by the end of 2013. After arriving in June for an internship, her study abroad
program started at the end of July 2013. “I always loved traveling and learning about new cultures,
so I always knew I wanted to study abroad. I chose Santiago, Chile because I didn’t want to go to
Spain or Europe, and I wanted a more non-traditional abroad experience.”

There was also another in˜ uence that helped Lesley decide where she would like to travel. “My
sophomore year, I took a Spanish class with a focus on Chile and learned a lot about the Pinochet
dictatorship and this whole political history that I never knew about. This fascinated me so I decided
to come abroad to Chile to learn more about it.”

Lesley has been immersed in the culture of the area, showing her the whole picture of life in
Chile. “Chilean culture is really di° erent from the United States, especially in terms of treatment
of women. Chile has strong machismo culture, which is the idea that men are superior to women.
So often women are treated as second-class citizens and have limited rights. Just witnessing this in
action has been eye-opening. I’ve also experienced it ÿrsthand.”

It hasn’t been all work and no play for Lesley, as she recalls a fun trip down to the coast. “My
friends and I took a trip to Pichilemu, which is this awesome surf town on the coast, during Fiestas
Patrias, which is Chilean independence week. A Chilean friend told me that the most fun place
to be during this week is on the coast, so we decided to go there to check it out. It was a blast!
Through that, we met a lot of people and actually made some really good friends that we still

hang out with back in Santiago.”

Of all the experiences Lesley has had, her biggest take away has been what she has learned about
herself. “I learned that the most important thing that I need to do in my life is ÿgure out what
makes me happy and then pursue that happiness. It can be selÿsh, but it is worthwhile – there’s
no time to waste being unhappy.”

Lesley’s advice: “Deÿnitely go! It’s so worth it!”

22 • To Dragma Issue no. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013

Samantha Boccella, Sigma Beta (Saint Joseph’s U)
Travel Abroad Location: Ireland

When Samantha Boccella’s older sister studied abroad during her collegiate
years, the pictures and stories that came back with her made Samantha want
to have those adventures as well. As an Actuarial Science/Math major, the
National U of Ireland, Galway was one of the only schools that would cater
to Samantha’s rigorous class schedule. “NUIG had higher-level math courses
that let me stay on track with my college courses at my home university. I
also wanted to study abroad in Europe so I would be able to travel to di˜ erent
countries. Galway seemed to just fall into my lap.”

While studying so far from home, Samantha had an experience that proves the
world really is small. “It was a completely normal day in Galway and I went
to a grocery store to pick up a few things. On my way back to my apartment,
an older American couple stopped me and asked where the grocery store was.
After I gave them directions they said, “So, you must be American. Where are
you from?” It was probably because I didn’t have an Irish accent. Of course, I
said ‘Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.” They proceeded to ask me where and I said
‘Montgomery County, a small town called Worcester.”
Long story short, the couple was also from Worcester visiting Ireland. I
couldn’t believe it – I went all the way to Ireland to meet someone from
my hometown!”

When asked about her experience, Samantha summed up her a° nity to
Ireland very well. “I always say, ‘forget regret or life is yours to miss.’ So that
being said, I would absolutely study abroad again in Galway. Galway became
my home away from home. I wish I had more time to see more of the world,
but I know that I will be back some day to see more of it.”

Samantha’s advice: “Never let anything hold you back; do everything and
anything. This is an experience that you will never forget so make the most
out of it.”

Online Branding
and Professionalism

How your Future Career Relies on Social Media

by Rachel Boison, Kappa Kappa (Ball State U), Assistant Director of Public Relations

While a college senior in 2007, I scored a coveted internship for a magazine in New
York City - the opportunity of a lifetime. As I got to know my supervisor, I learned
that she had chosen not to hire another potential intern (we’ll call her Becky) because of
her inappropriate Facebook profile picture. Twitter and LinkedIn had not yet reached a
wide demographic and MySpace was already becoming a distant memory. In addition to
a printed resume, this Facebook profile picture was the only piece of visible information
the employer had for Becky. Her interview had been held over the phone, removing the
opportunity to show a strong presence in person. The Facebook profile picture showed
Becky drinking directly out of a large bottle of liquor. Once the supervisor saw this, she
was immediately dismissed as a candidate.

Becky missed out on an amazing internship
experience because of that one picture.

She must have believed the photo to be appropriate for her online presence to the world
or thought that no one “important” would ever see. The supervisor also mentioned
that if it weren’t for the picture, Becky would have been hired based on her outstanding
resume and interview.

24 • To Dragma Issue no. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013

If Becky was a senior in Just like Alpha Omicron Pi’s audiences are making
college, then she was probably decisions about us based on what we have to share
21, right? It doesn’t matter to with them online, our audiences as individuals are
your potential employer, especially looking at our character, our values, our personal
when you are one of many candidates. interests and the skills that we have to offer both
Any photo featuring alcohol use puts now and what can be developed in to the future.
that activity in the forefront of your personal The Facebook-photo-gone-wrong example does
brand instead of the skills and abilities you not reveal any big secrets. But as a part of this social
bring to the table. And this is just one example. media shift, potential employers have turned to
Showing care about the presentation of yourself social media like the LinkedIn professional network
online speaks volumes to anyone looking at as one of the first places they’ll go to learn more
you as an employee, volunteer, or other similar about a job candidate. In conjunction with what
position - a student ambassador, a member of the we’re doing on Facebook, Twitter and the like, they
Homecoming Steering Committee, and various are without a doubt making hiring decisions based
potential leadership roles. on our online brand and level of professionalism
more than ever before.
As we end 2013 and begin 2014, we are
progressing further into a decade where social
media has made a significant shift since its
inception in the early 2000s. Social media
platforms have gone from headlining as a gateway
for making social connections to a main course
of personal branding and marketing with a side
of connectivity. The strength of our connections,
and the outcomes we can create from them, is
based on our content and the way that we present
ourselves to our contacts.

Issue no. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013 To Dragma • 25

The Re-Discovery of LinkedIn

LinkedIn is nothing new - but, if you’re like most honest or hardworking? You can’t tell from a
college students or professionals who are actively resume or even from an interview. That’s why
connected to the world through social media, people fall back on trusted relationships.” This
you have probably noticed a growth in LinkedIn sentiment applies to LinkedIn users today and
connection invitations over the past few years. If remains quite possibly the reason why those who
you’re like many who started a LinkedIn profile are actively using LinkedIn are more likely to snag
in its earlier days, circa 2003 – 2009, then you’ve a job than those who are simply submitting resumes
noticed that a LinkedIn profile you forgot existed and waiting to be contacted.
has started getting new views and connection
invitations, drawing you back in to see what’s LinkedIn is no longer a network for “grown-ups”
changed for LinkedIn. in the context of the Businessweek article. The
benefits of LinkedIn for college students and young
With the MySpace and Facebook networks as its professionals are just as important as they are for
predecessors, LinkedIn’s founders sought to appeal people who’ve been working for 10+ years. It is
to a very different audience, leading to its recent a way to make crucial connections in addition to
resurgence with a demographic that was not its maintaining the connections you already have, and
original target. MySpace and Facebook attracted to sell yourself to the manager or CEO who could
teens and young adults who sought a strictly social change your life with a career-launching decision
platform to share their daily activities and connect to add you to their team. In an article written
with people they may not have otherwise met. for Mashable, writer Jess Fee had a conversation
According to digital media author Ken Yeung’s
article for The Next Web celebrating LinkedIn’s 10th
anniversary in May 2013, LinkedIn was initially
meant for working professionals who had already
been in the work force for several years and might
be looking for a new way to post their resume and
multiply opportunities along their career paths.

In an article written for Bloomberg Businessweek
in 2006 titled “How LinkedIn Broke Through,”
the platform is referred to as a “3-year-old social
networking site for grown-ups.” Today, LinkedIn
has over 225,000,000 registered users, and
counting. In its 10 years, the platform has evolved
from an online host for resumes to a relationship
management tool based upon who you know
and what they have to say about you. In the same
Businessweek article, it is noted that “people
tend to hire and make other business decisions by
drawing on personal networks; is a job candidate

26 • To Dragma Issue no. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013

with Natan Edelsburg, Senior Vice President for important sources for hiring. Nicole Williams,
Sawhorse Media. Edelsburg had this to say about LinkedIn Career Expert, noted that “part of your
students trying to break their way in to their di erentiator as a college student is that you know
profession of choice: “Every student is blindly technology and how to build a professional brand.
trying to make a resume, but many don’t have great Employers want to know that you can bring that
LinkedIn pro les. I often hear, ‘Here’s my resume. to their company.” You may also be considered
My LinkedIn isn’t great, but here’s the link,” I say, for positions that you didn’t even know were out
make it great and then get back to me!” there. Potential employers might pay attention to
your expected graduation date and identify you as a
Still not convinced? In the same article, we learned potential candidate for when that day comes.
that 37 percent of surveyed job recruiters identi ed
social professional networks as one of the most

Want to get started on LinkedIn?

If you’re not using LinkedIn yet, it’s never too late to start! Here are the basics for getting yourself set up.

Go to www.linkedin.com
On the Home page, you’ll see where you can begin your registration, and that it’s free!
You’ll be taken through about 7 steps to build your pro le. Some are required, some are not required but are
helpful in getting you started (like importing contacts from an email account).
Once your pro le is created, your personal home page gives you several options for building your presence
and your brand. Some of the tools you’re given include:
People You May Know - Based on your current contacts, your location, your job type or eld, and other
components of your basic information, LinkedIn will suggest connections for you.
Who’s Viewed Your Pro le - If you’re active on LinkedIn on a daily basis (and using all of the other tools!) you
will see the results of your e orts through the data displaying who has viewed your activity and your pro le.
Jobs You May Be Interested In - LinkedIn’s analytics will nd and suggest jobs suited to the information
you’ve provided.
Use the Pro le, Network, Jobs and Interests tabs in the main navigation bar to maximize your experience.
The “Network” area helps you manage your Contacts, and the “Jobs” area will suggest an in-depth listing of
potential jobs based on your keywords and the endorsements you may be receiving from your connections!
Under the “Interests” tab is where you can nd groups to connect with and follow companies you’re
interested in. This is where you go to follow Alpha Omicron Pi - just search for us!

Issue no. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013 To Dragma • 27

Tips for LinkedIn Success

Whether you’re a college student, young professional gaining skills and contacts or a seasoned professional
using LinkedIn, there are 8 trending tips from social media experts that can maximize your LinkedIn success.

Choose a great profile picture. Experts agree that
having a profile picture for your LinkedIn presence
makes your profile more likely to be viewed by others.
The digital age is certainly visually driven, and a photo
can provide a further look in to the profile owner’s
personality. The appropriateness of that picture can
also affect your chances of making any meaningful
connections through LinkedIn, not to mention
connections that may lead to a job offer.

8

The 8th and possibly most important tip for successful LinkedIn use circles
back to the overall online brand. When an employer is trying to learn more
about you through your digital persona, they will not only look for you on
LinkedIn, but they will search for you everywhere else. Facebook and Twitter
are interchangeably stops #2 and #3. Remember, some of our supporting
research noted that an employer may find you online and determine you are a
potential candidate without having to even apply for a job. The opposite rings
true as well - you can be ruled out in a matter of minutes without knowing.

Take advantage of the Craft the content you share to reflect the brand you’re building. Doing research and
communities available through talking about your results, providing your stance on hot topics related to your desired
LinkedIn Groups. Joining field or posting links to articles about what’s trending shows that you are “passionate,
groups gives you introductory engaged and paying attention to your career of choice,” according to writer Jess
connections with people who can Fee and her expertise shared with Mashable. You can gain a lot of respect from, and
ultimately help you advance and grab the attention of, potential employers by proving yourself as an up and coming
excel in your career path. You’ll thought leader in your field. This also presents you as someone who is constantly
have access to conversations that trying to learn and adapt to any changes or shifts in the business environment.
may broaden your knowledge
and give you the opportunity
to participate with meaningful
questions that can attract
the attention of a potential
employer. College alumni groups,
professional associations - even
Alpha Omicron Pi professional
groups! Our LinkedIn professional
groups can connect you with
thousands of sisters in your
industry (or desired industry)
and open a whole new world of
networking potential. Just follow
us at ‘Alpha Omicron Pi Fraternity’
to get started making your
connections.

Show off your work. In its 10-year evolution, LinkedIn Ask for recommendations. Students
has provided more and more opportunities for users and professionals alike can ask
to showcase their digital content. Upload photos current/past professors, advisers,
with labels and descriptions, PDFs of design or employers or coworkers to provide
written work, connect your profile to your blog - the recommendations. Companies are
opportunities are endless to create a digital portfolio looking for a more personalized
through LinkedIn. approach to the job hunt from job
seekers, and its your opportunity to
stand out. Testaments to your work
ethic, skills and prior experience from
colleagues and mentors can only add
to your LinkedIn clout.

Use powerful and carefully selected keywords. The
most user-friendly component of LinkedIn for those on
the hiring side of the network is the ability to search
exactly what is desired in a user’s profile. A simple search
of “integrated marketing communications” will pull
rows and rows of job candidates who have included
this type of experience or skill in their summary and/
or job history. Your responsibility is to be sure you are
using the right descriptions of your experience and the
“buzz words” of your industry to secure your spot in a
potential employer’s search results.

Reach out to people you admire. You When in doubt, have someone you
shouldn’t be afraid to reach out and connect know and trust to give you an honest
with the CEO of Nike if his job, career path or opinion do a review of your digital
industry leadership are something you strive assets. You can be that friend to tell
for someday. A leader of that stature for any someone their profile picture choice
company in any industry likely knows that may need some reconsideration.
he or she is admired for their success. These Would Becky from our opening
leaders are also probably sharing articles and example have been able to make up
inspirational messages about the business for her inappropriate Facebook picture
world that can help you stay connected with a stellar presence on LinkedIn?
to trends and your goals. Just make sure Probably not. If you skip this step
you’re never sending a connection invitation and feature photos of yourself with
without a personal note, no matter who it drinks in hand, status updates about
is. If you’ve met the person before, include the unfairness of your professor and
where you met them, or do some research your love of parties, or complaints
to find something you have in common. about your current job, your otherwise
For example, Mark Parker, CEO of Nike, is a perfect brand projected through
Pennsylvania State University grad - so for LinkedIn can go down the drain.
Epsilon Alpha Chapter members or alumnae,
there’s an instant connection! The biggest
cardinal rule in this area - don’t ever ask for a
job in your connection requests.

AorreayoBuyasHtaenrdoer?
by Mary Kate Sweeney, Omega (Miami U), Assistant Director of Chapter Services and
Blair Dudley, Rho Omicron (Middle Tennessee State U), Assistant Director of Chapter Services

We all grew up admiring the superheros in our favorite Saturday morning cartoons. From Spiderman to Wonder Woman,
these characters always arrived in the nick of time with their capes and superpowers to save the day. No thought was ever
given to the fact that our heros actually had a choice to make before racing to the rescue. They had to choose to act or
choose to stand back and become a bystander. Bystander behavior occurs when people are in dangerous or uncertain
situations, and they do not take the necessary steps to intervene. The choice is easy for a fictional cartoon superhero, but
how hard is that choice to make in real life? Who are you? Are you a hero or a bystander?

On college campuses across North America, our members find themselves in situations where they have to make these
choices everyday. Bystander behavior, a social psychological phenomenon, refers to instances where individuals do not
offer help in emergency situations because they are surrounded by a lot of other “bystanders.” The phrase “bystander
effect” was popularized by psychologists Bibb Latane and John Darley after their studies on the 1964 murder of Kitty
Genovese. Genovese was murdered at her apartment complex where several bystanders testified that they heard her cries
for help, but none of them took action.

When people are in the presence of others, they are less likely to react to an emergency situation, rather than if they
were alone. In any case, an observer must be able to define a situation as an emergency before he or she is able to react
appropriately. Often times, people are influenced by their peers, especially in a social situation, and that may cause them
not to react fast enough, or in a serious enough manner.

There are many factors that play into the bystander effect. Researchers Latane and Darley identified four mechanisms that
seem to contribute to inaction:

Self-awareness: The (perceived) presence of an audience to his or her actions inhibits the individual from

acting. He or she does not want to appear foolish or inappropriate in front of others.

Social cues: Individuals actively look to one another for cues about how to behave in the situation. The

inaction of others will likely cause the inaction of the individual. These social cues can interact with the other
mechanism to increase the effect. If all individuals are initially inhibited, to the audience all will appear inactive.
Every individual will perceive all others as inactive, further inhibiting action.

Blocking: When multiple bystanders take action, the emergency often can become worse. The action—

or perceived or suspected action—of one bystander effectively blocks others from taking action.

Diffused responsibility: In a situation where only a small percentage of the bystanders can take

action, responsibility is diffused. Each individual feels he or she has only limited responsibility for the negative
consequences of inaction.

30 • To Dragma Issue no. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013

Issue no. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013 To Dragma • 31

Three Skills Needed for Effective Bystander Intervention

Seeing bystander behavior as an epidemic, AOII partnered with the RESPONSE ABILITY Project’s
Every|Day Hero campaign in 2012 (raproject.org). According to the Creator and Producer of
the RA Project, Mike Dilbeck, there are three skills that individuals must embody when finding
themselves in questionable situations.

• Define what’s happening as a problem

One must identify that the situation is actually a problem. Usually, a person can identify that
the situation is problematic, but try to justify their inaction or delayed reaction. As a bystander,
a person will come up with excuses for not intervening. For example, “This is someone else’s
problem,” or “Maybe it is not that big of a deal - it is an isolated incident that won’t ever happen
again,” or “I never saw/heard anything.” Someone who is equipped to intervene will have
different thoughts: “This IS a problem,” or “This can escalate into something bigger than my
control,” or “I would want someone to help me out if I were in this situation.”

• Be the one responsible for dealing with the problem

The person ready to intervene in a problematic situation does not want to sit back and watch
harmful behaviors or actions unfold before their eyes. As AOIIs, we promote relationships and
loyalty to our colleges and universities as well as standing up as dignified women promoting
the ideals of our Founders. A person who steps up as a hero will demonstrate loyalty and
dignity by watching out for peers, promoting safety and healthy lifestyles by all members of
our Greek Communities and campuses, and not falling into Bystander Behavior.

• Identify the barriers preventing intervention, then go beyond them

What is stopping other people from intervening? What is that barrier that prevents others from
being the hero, while they deflect this “problem” to anyone besides themselves? Does the
person in the situation and the bystander have a close relationship? What is the competence
of the bystander? Will they be able to navigate the problem at hand? How ambiguous is the
situation? Is the person in trouble crying out for help, or trying to conceal the situation as a
“non-issue” by negating accusations of concern or blatantly refusing help when they are aware
they are in need? Bystander intervention will occur when a person recognizes those barriers,
determines their plan of action, and intervenes.

Situations where Bystander Behavior is Commonly Found:

Academics: Ignoring or participating in plagiarism on term papers or group projects, using the same paper

or project in different classes, or receiving the answers to an exam before one takes it. Instead, is it easier to
think, “What’s the harm, everyone else is doing it?”

Eating disorders: Not confronting a friend when you see him/her demonstrating dangerous eating

habits, excessively working out, witnessing self-inflicting vomiting, or avoiding eating all together. Are you
rationalizing that, “They forgot to eat,” or “They are just too busy to eat?”

Excessive drinking: Watching friends drink to a dangerous point, not saying anything about how their

drinking is dangerous and scary to themselves and others and not trying to stop them. Do you tell yourself, “If
I confront them, I might make them mad?”

Dangerous settings: Not stopping or preventing a friend who is intoxicated from going home with

someone you don’t know or watching your friend do something they will later regret. Do you think, “She’s an
adult so it’s none of my business what she does?”

Illegal activity: Watching someone steal or break the law and not stopping them. Does your first instinct

tell you to mind your own business?

32 • To Dragma Issue no. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013

Three Kappa Omega’s Make the Right Choice

Just recently, three members of AOII’s Kappa Omega Chapter at
U of Kentucky demonstrated incredible bystander intervention.
Taylor Carden, Kealy Griffin and Taylor McDonald never expected to
become instant heroes. While at a homecoming event called “Paint
the Town Blue,” the three sisters were painting windows and doors
to show their Wildcat Pride. At the same time, a Panhellenic-wide
event was taking place in a nearby classroom. Just as a speaker was
about to go on stage, a folding table holding food in chafing dishes
collapsed, and burning oil lit the tablecloths and table on fire. The
three Kappa Omega’s ran into the room while the long line of over
150 women attending the event ran the other direction. The quick-
thinking AOII sisters used their paint water and brushes to extinguish
the growing flames and prevented what, most definitely, could have
been a greater problem. The fire department would later boast that
the three members of Kappa Omega were the first responders on
the scene and extinguished the fire before it became worse.

Taylor Carden said they were not exactly sure what came over them
to take such swift action, but it is easy to see
how their example was effective bystander
intervention. The women immediately
identified the problem and, realizing the
potential severity, chose to be the ones to
take quick action before the situation grew
out of hand. With paint water in hand, they
knew they had the solution to navigate the
barriers. A local firefighter, Lt. Richard Carlin,
applauded the women’s quick response and
awareness of what needed to be done and
even designated them “Honorary Firefighters
for the day.” Carlin also offered to help these
AOII heros finish their painting endeavor.

Each one of us has the opportunity to be a
hero, and we don’t need superpowers to do
it. And although we don’t need a cape, we will
need the courage to stand up for what is right.
This is a call to action. A request to go against
the social norm and step in when no one else
will. As sisters, we pledge to be that friend
whom anyone can call upon for help, even
when a sister cannot see for herself that she
needs help. Spider-man famously said, “with
great power comes great responsibility.” We
are all charged with the responsibility to do
what is right and within each of us is the
power to make a difference.

So, who are you? Are you a hero or a bystander?

Issue no. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013 To Dragma • 33

Study Smart
by: Mariellen Perkinson Sasseen, Alpha Delta (U of Alabama) Director of To Dragma and Archives

Studies show that 35 percent of students who enter Study Smart Most of your time in college
college will drop out during their freshman year. should be spent studying, and good
The reasons run the gamut from family problems Create a Master Calendar study habits can be one of your best
and loneliness to a lack of money and academic timesavers. It seems pretty simple
struggles. A new report, funded by the Bill & Melinda to say that most people who are
Gates Foundation, takes it a step further by calling really successful in life know what
our overall college student dropout rates a national they are doing. The flip side to
crisis. The report, American Dream 2.0, reveals the that is that people who don’t know
depressing statistic that 46% of those who enter a what they are doing are rarely successful.
U.S. college fail to graduate within six years. To help you get on track, here are three
effective methods of managing your
College tuitions are skyrocketing faster than income, time to study smarter not harder.
and financial aid is in decline. As a result, student
loan debt has reached record highs - more than $113 At the start of each term, take the
billion. Because too many students are left with large syllabus for each course and fill in
debt and no degree, the smart move is to find a way all exam dates and due dates for
to stay in school. papers, projects and assignments
in a master calendar. Keeping
To accomplish collegiate goals and succeed in up with every syllabus separately
other important activities, students can not be is a sure fire way to overlook
passive participants. Joining an organization like something important. Add to
AOII is one smart move because it provides a your calendar any important dates
sisterhood experience that tackles loneliness head already set that are related to the
on and chapters maintain academic expecations. If school term such as school breaks,
academics are a struggle, students can actively take sporting events, and sorority
control by making better choices. In other words, activities as well as personal
students must learn to study smart. appointments, birthdays, holidays,
etc. If you are using an agenda
with both monthly and weekly views,
these dates should all be recorded on
both options. You will have to invest
some time to do this at the start of each
term but the organizational payoff is
well worth it.

34 • To Dragma Issue no. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013

Start each week by creating aCreate a Weekly Schedule notes and memorization. Unless you Schedule work that requires a
weekly schedule. Double check Create a Daily List believe cramming or only skimming high level of concentration, such
that all information from your Tips for Scheduling Effective Study Timethe material will result in earning a as reading and taking notes, in no
Master Calendar for that week is good grade, you will benefit yourself to longer than 50-minute periods,
listed on your weekly schedule in schedule shorter study times over several giving yourself 10-minutes to
your agenda. In the appropriate nights to be better prepared. take a break, move around, use
time slots, add the things that fill the restroom or grab a snack.
your day that are at set times like Get into the habit of making a Another 50-minute period can
your classes, meetings, etc. Pencil daily list that combines one day’s follow immediately, but the break
in times to eat, play, exercise activities in your weekly schedule is important.
and study. List your study times with the other things you would
specifically by class so you don’t like to accomplish each day, Schedule times requiring
run out of time in the week before such as returning a library book, memorization of facts, figures and
you get to all your classes. Also, running to Walmart or meeting dates in no more than 30-minute
flip up to a month ahead in your your friends for frisbee on the intervals. It’s better to do two
Master Calendar to see what major quad. Develop a ranking method 30-minute intervals spread
assignments are looming. If you have a with your academic classes and throughout the day than go a full
major project due the Monday after your study times receiving the highest hour for memorization.
chapter’s philanthropy weekend that also priority. As you find free time between
happens to be a home football weekend, those high priority activities, you can Schedule time just for research and
it’s obvious that you need to start begin checking off other items on the outlining a paper. Maybe you can
allocating time in this week’s schedule list. Maybe you didn’t find time for write a paper in 2 hours, but only
to avoid a crisis later in the term. Self- a trip to Walmart today, so make it a if you have already gathered all your
management is really simple if you are higher priority on tomorrow’s list. information and sources beforehand.
organized. Don’t leave yourself with too And the outline will not only keep you
little time to accomplish your academic focused, but give you an idea beforehand
goals while still being able to enjoy other that your subject might need to be
activities that are important to you. narrowed or broadened to meet the
length requirements.
Did you know it takes about 4 minutes
to read an average textbook page? If You might ask “Who has time to do
you have an upcoming test covering all this?” The busier you are, the more
200 pages of text, you can estimate it important it is to make use of calendars,
will take you 800 minutes, or nearly schedules and lists. Academic success
3-1/2 hours just to complete the does not depend on how many hours
textbook reading, let alone tackle your you study but on what results you get
from your efforts. With a great study
plan that helps manage your life and
your academic goals, you will be the one
looking pretty smart.

Issue no. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013 To Dragma • 35

FoUr Benefits AOII, your Chapter and You!

AOII is very excited to launch a new alumnae engagement Support a collegiate chapter of your choice through tax
initiative called FoUr! Four young women founded AOII for deductible contributions through the Fraternity’s Foundation!
friendship. So it is fitting that FoUr is AOII’s initiative to increase You can now give a tax-deductible gift to the AOII Foundation to
engagement opportunities for alumnae. FoUr is for AOII, and support the educational needs of a chapter of your choice - your
FoUr is for you! chapter of initiation, a chapter you are advising or a chapter that is
close to your heart. The AOII Foundation will set up a special fund
FoUr offers new ways for alumnae to stay connected. One of for the chapter so that your gift, along with others may, for example,
the greatest aspects about FoUr is that it allows alumnae to give be used to send an officer to a leadership event or to enhance the
back to AOII in a way that best suits their lifestyle; whether it’s chapter’s study space.
through time, talents, or treasures, each alumna member gets to
be the decision-maker! Through FoUr, you have an opportunity Apply for a local or international volunteer opportunity!
to connect with your sisters through the following ways: Volunteering within AOII has many different faces. Whether you’re
volunteering as an adviser for a nearby AOII collegiate chapter, serving
Join AOII’s new International Alumnae Association! as a local alumnae chapter officer, or hold a position within the
The International Alumnae Association is similar to your alma mater’s international realm of AOII, there really is a place for everyone. We
alumni association. Wherever life has taken you and whatever your encourage you to submit your application, and let us know where you
circumstances, your membership allows you to stay connected would love to volunteer.
through updates, To Dragma, and an annual stewardship report -
all for an annual fee of $35.

For more details about FoUr and the benefits of participating, please visit AOII’s website.

The Test of Times
by Martha Haberstroh Sexauer, Nu Lambda (U of Southern California)

Just over 30 Years ago, I found myself at the U of Southern You never know the value of friendship until it stands the test
California’s Sorority Rush. USC’s rush, at that time, was a of time. We’ve weathered disappointments, raising children,
stressful process. Many girls felt that if they didn’t get into a crazy pets, cancer, family loss and age. But, the one thing that
certain chapter, they would rather drop out than join another remains constant is our enduring friendship, a lifeline of support
one. “Are you wearing the right pearls?” Or “Does your family and laughter that’s as necessary to me as breathing. Without this
have money?” There was a great deal of super ciality, and it was to sustain me through good times and bad, my life would be,
hard to have a meaningful experience as you trudged from house simply, less.
to house in high heels while trying not to sweat too noticeably
in your dress. However, every time I visited the AOII house, I We call, we laugh, we cry, we certainly share con dences that
felt really comfortable because the girls were friendly, gracious our husbands will never hear about, and we advise each other
and down to earth. I subsequently joined AOII, and a lifelong on moving through life successfully and with grace. As an only
adventure ensued. child, I’m especially grateful for the gift that AOII has given me:
my true sisters. As we celebrate our 30th anniversary together,
Maybe we learn as much from adversity as we do from success. in gratitude and with excitement toward the next 30, I want to
Nu Lambda had some di culties and due to a variety of issues, o er all collegiate sisters something to ponder about their AOII
I am sad to say my chapter is no longer on the campus at USC. sisterhood: “This is just the beginning; the best of times are yet
But, the fabulous four years I spent there was just the beginning to come.”
of my sisterhood. Sorority life is de nitely what you make of
it. My pledge class had over 25 members, and we came from all “From Quiet Homes to New Beginnings,
walks of life and all regions of the country. We were diverse in Out to the Undiscovered End,
opinion, religion, race, and academic pursuit. I had the privilege
of befriending Katherine Tabor, of Valparaiso, Indiana and Judy There is Nothing Worth the Wear of Winning,
Inose, of Rancho Palos Verdes, CA. At the time, I was from But Laughter and the Gift of Friends.”
Santa Barbara, CA. We were pledge sisters, and Judy and I
eventually became roommates, but that’s not really the story that
I need to share. The important story is about what happens to
sisterhood after college.

Fast forward 30 years. I’m now almost 50, and my days of
bikinis and frat houses are long gone. Judy, Kathy and I are now
a triumvirate of sisterhood, two of us living in Illinois and one
still in California. Many of the sisters from other chapters that
I talk to recall certain girls, but with time and distance, those
friendships have fallen by the wayside. Not with us.

Above: L to R: Katherine Tabor, Martha Haberstroh Sexauer To Dragma • 37
and Judy Inose Jobes snorkeling in the Cayman Islands in 2012.
Top Right: Nu Lambda 1983 pledge class. Standing in row
two, Judy Inose Jobes, second from right; Martha Haberstroh
Sexauer, 4th from right; and Katherine Tabor, 5th from right.
Right: L to R: Martha Haberstroh Sexauer, Judy Inose Jobes
and Katherine Tabor during a 2002 trip to Las Vegas.

Issue no. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013

The ‘SOA!’ Pitch to MLB!

Major League Baseball’s 2013 regular season ended entire communities and broader audiences while
with over $4,000 raised for Alpha Omicron Pi and contributing to dollars already being raised by
Strike Out Arthritis! - $4,526 to be exact. Since collegiate and alumnae chapters. Since then, AOII’s
2011, Alpha Omicron Pi Fraternity has hosted event with the Atlanta Braves has reached annual
Strike Out Arthritis! (SOA!) events with the status with events in 2012, 2013, and one already
Atlanta Braves, Chicago White Sox, and Boston on the calendar for 2014.
Red Sox at the major league level, and brand new
events with the Seattle Mariners and Los Angeles The Fraternity’s rst MLB event of 2013 expanded
Dodgers are in the works in addition to repeat SOA! to a new team and gave International
events with past teams. Convention attendees a chance to get in on the
action. On June 28, 2013 during Convention in
AOII’s Strike Out Arthritis! program has provided Chicago, AOIIs gathered to Strike Out Arthritis!
a platform for collegiate and alumnae chapters with the Chicago White Sox. Over 300 people
to host philanthropic events that raise money attended the event in support of AOII and Strike
for arthritis and promote awareness of AOII’s Out Arthritis! with over $2,200 raised.
dedication to arthritis research and education.
Inspired by the Arthritis Foundation’s National Later in September 2013, AOIIs in Boston came
together to Strike Out Arthritis! with the Boston
O ce in Atlanta, AOII took this Red Sox, the league’s eventual 2013 World Series
platform to a bigger scale by planning Champion. Sydney Lang, the 13-year-old Youth
the rst Strike Out Arthritis! event with Ambassador for the Massachusetts o ce of the
the Atlanta Braves in 2011. Realizing Arthritis Foundation, accompanied AOII Alison
the potential to grow fundraising and Williams from Delta Chapter at Tufts U on to the
awareness even more, Alpha Omicron
Pi Fraternity implemented SOA! events eld to call “Play ball!” Katie Riker, President of
with several major league teams to engage the Boston Alumnae Chapter and Delta Chapter
alumna, served as the “Leader of the Pack” for
the game which featured Katie on the eld as
a representation of both AOII and the Arthritis
Foundation on Fenway Park’s big screen.

The third annual Strike Out Arthritis! night with
the Atlanta Braves in September 2013 rounded
out a successful year of fundraising with major
league teams. Lauren Watkins, a member of Delta
Epsilon Chapter at Jacksonville State U, served
as the game’s Honorary Team Captain and wore
an “I am the Face of Arthritis” t-shirt and AOII
button while on the eld alongside Fredi González,
manager of the Atlanta Braves.

The Arthritis Foundation has seen tremendous
support from major league players who hold the

ght against arthritis close to their hearts. Not only
does arthritis have a higher possibility of impacting
the lives of athletes in to the future, but because

38 • To Dragma Issue no. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013

of the prevalence of
the disease a ecting
millions of adults and
children each year, it
has had an impact on
many players’ loved
ones and communities
as well.

Jimmy Rollins, shortstop for the Philadelphia Award, an honor
Phillies since 2001, has dedicated the Jimmy named for former
Rollins Family Foundation to raising funds for Pittsburgh Pirate
and awareness about arthritis in young adults and Roberto Clemente
children. His annual BaseBOWL charity bowling who passed away
tournament bene ts the Arthritis Foundation, in a plane crash
with his fellow teammates and other celebrities while on his way
competing in the tournament at Lucky Strike Lanes to help victims of
in Philadelphia. Rollins has also been featured in the devastating
PSAs and print advertisements for the “Faces of 1972 Nicaragua
Arthritis” awareness campaign to communicate earthquake. The
the prevalence of juvenile arthritis and the Major League
Arthritis Foundation’s mission to combat JA. His Baseball website at
success as an athlete and desire for children with www.MLB.com
arthritis to be able to enjoy similar extracurricular describes the award as one that is “given annually
activities has fueled much of his Foundation’s to a player who demonstrates the values Clemente
commitment to the cause. His Foundation website displayed in his commitment to community and
at www.jrfamilyfoundation.org features children understanding the value of helping others.”
participating in Zumba classes, obstacle courses,
and JA camp activities. AOII’s major league events have proven to be
valuable for members and chapters as a way to show
Justin Morneau, rst baseman for the Pittsburgh their commitment to arthritis research, education
Pirates, began Justin Morneau’s Casino Night and awareness in addition to their chapter’s own
bene ting the Arthritis Foundation while playing events. As more members reach out to share their
for the Minnesota Twins. According to an article interest in an event with their team and in their
written by Christian Marin for the website www. community, the future of major league SOA!
prosgiveback.com, the Morneau family teamed up events is bright. The annual Strike Out Arthritis!
with the Arthritis Foundation for this event when event with the Atlanta Braves is already on the
his niece Madelyn was diagnosed with juvenile 2014 calendar for Thursday, September 25, and a
arthritis at just 2 years of age. Once they realized
the severity of this disability and the impact it can rst-ever event with the Seattle Mariners is set for
have on such young children, Morneau and his May 29, 2014.
family sprung to action.
If you are interested in learning more about or
Both Rollins and Morneau have been nalists getting involved with an event in your area, contact
for Major League Baseball’s Roberto Clemente AOII’s Assistant Director of Public Relations
Rachel Boison at [email protected].

Issue no. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013 To Dragma • 39

Be Aware

When Driving Alone

A wise woman is always prepared, especially when driving alone. This time of year means more
bad weather driving conditions and more hours of nighttime driving. It also means collegians
traveling to and from school are often driving alone and in darkness. While it is a good safety tip to
carry a cell phone, use a GPS, or own a car with a built-in communication systems, it’s still easy to
be lulled into over-con dence. Cell phone batteries lose their charge, and there are pockets of dead
cell coverage all over the U.S. and Canada. And even if you do have access to roadside assistance
at the push of a button, it can sometimes take hours for help to arrive. For those reasons and many
others, it’s a good idea to have a basic Emergency Roadside Kit in your car. You can purchase a kit
or create your own using any or all of items on the checklist below.

Emergency Roadside Supplies Checklist

Auto club card Clean rags
First aid kit Roll of paper towels
12-foot jumper cables Roll of duct tape
Roadside ares, or emergency triangles Windshield wipes
Two quarts of oil Pocketknife
Gallon of antifreeze Pen and paper
Compact re extinguisher Help sign
Tire pressure gauge Non-perishable emergency food
Spare fuses Bottled water
Flashlight and extra batteries Toilet paper
Flat head screwdrivers Blanket
Phillips head screwdrivers Ice scraper
Pliers Folding snow shovel
Vise grips Bag of kitty litter
Gloves Tow strap
Adjustable wrench Tire chains
Tire in ator (such as a Fix-A-Flat) Disposable warming hand packets
Coolant hose repair kit Large plastic container to hold the supplies

40 • To Dragma Issue No. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013

10 Tips for Women on the Road

Even with all the right resources at hand, there are still several traveling tips worth noting that women travelling alone should follow.

1. BE AWARE of where you park. 2. BE AWARE of your 3. BE AWARE of the car next

As you are deciding where to leave surroundings. Before you walk to you. As you walk to your
your car, pick a well-lit spot or lot out the door, have your keys in vehicle, notice if someone is
and avoid spots where few other your hand. Fumbling for keys in a sitting in the passenger side of
vehicles are parked. Memorize or, handbag as you walk distracts you the car or van next to you. Is
if necessary, jot down your parking from your surrounding and can give the vehicle idling? If either is
location so you can avoid searching a criminal the extra few seconds true, go back inside for help or
for your car. he needs to pull o a mugging, wait until that car drives away.
abduction or carjacking. Hold your
4. BE AWARE of strangers asking keys between your ngers like a 6. BE AWARE of your
weapon and make sure the car is
for your help. That does not mean locked once you are inside. location to avoid getting lost.
you can not be helpful, but you Know where you’re going at
have to be wise. This is especially 5. BE AWARE of unmarked police cars. all times and have directions
true if you’re being waved down by handy whenever you’re going
a stranger in a remote location or It’s fairly easy to masquerade as a policeman, somewhere new. Consider
roadside. Use your cell phone to call and stories are wide-spread of women being keeping a GPS device in your
the location in to the highway patrol tricked. Think twice about pulling over for car at all times and key in your
or police. You can still be helpful an unmarked police car if you don’t think destination before you leave
without putting yourself in danger. you’ve broken a law. Call 911 and ask for the home. Don’t wait until you
local police authority. They should be able to have to pull into a sketchy
7. BE AWARE of your car’s maintenance tell you if unmarked cars are patrolling your parking lot to key it in.
area. If you’re not sure, turn on your dome
schedule. A poorly maintained engine, bad light and wave to acknowledge that you see 10. BE AWARE of your
batteries, low tread tires can be counted on to him, then drive slowly to a gas station or
cause you grief when you least expect it. When convenience store before pulling to a stop. back-up plan. Always let
traveling alone, ll up the tank before you set With your window up, make the o cer someone know where
out on a trip and try to keep the level above a show his o cial identi cation card. Notice if you’re going. Whether
quarter full at all times. You never know when his uniform pieces match. Police departments making short or long trips
you could be stuck in tra c. do use unmarked cars, but rarely sta them alone, plot your course
with plainclothes o cers for tra c patrols. on a map with location of
possible overnight stops.
8. BE AWARE of your car’s 9. BE AWARE of trouble. It’s good to know how Give the map to family or
a friend along with notes
warning indicators. Do you you should respond in case bad things happen. If on when you will check
even know what they mean? confronted by a potential abductor or carjacker while in by phone. The back-up
Be familiar enough with the you’re in or around your car - think ‘run and make person can alert police
car you are driving to know all the noise you can.’ Drop any packages, yell, set o quickly if you fail to return
what they mean when they the car siren if you have a remote. Experts say most on schedule, possibly saving
criminals will run. Avoid at all costs getting in a car your life.
ash. Read your manual. with them. If you think you’re being followed by
another car - think ‘ nd help or a crowd of people.’ To Dragma • 41
Issue No. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013 Call 911, head to a police station or a gas station. If
you are driving and discover someone hiding in your
backseat - think ‘distraction and try to run.’ Slam on
your brakes to throw them o balance, throw the car
in park and run.

42 • To Dragma A Stitch
in Time

The Homecoming t-shirt - it showed off your school
spirit and support for AOII and her homecoming
partners. The sisterhood shirt - it honored the heart of
your chapter and the friendships you shared there. The
New Member/Rose Ball/Semi-Formal/Senior Send-off
dance shirts - you came, you celebrated, you danced, you
got the t-shirt. Oh wait, you can’t forget all those Bid
Days, Recruitments, Greek Weeks, Mixers, and your
everyday block-letter shirts! After four (or more) years
of college, we all had to move on to “real world” attire
leaving our AOII tees relegated to weekend wear or
nothing more than drawer-hogging uselessness. Right?

A few alumnae from Alpha Chi Chapter at Western
Kentucky U share how they turned their t-shirt
memories into a way to celebrate AOII daily, but with
less worries about wearing those tees out!

by Jodie Hassall, Alpha Chi (Western Kentucky U), Events and Public Relations Manager

Issue no. 1 • FallWInter 2013

Jennifer Meisel Her favorite square of the quilt is the traditional
AOII jersey that Alpha Chi chapter members
Initiated in 1988, Jennifer Meisel wasn’t sure wear. This is the shirt she was wearing on the
what to do with her college tees, but couldn’t bid day that her younger twin sisters joined
seem to let them go either. “I’ve moved to AOII. “I remember that we were all gathered in
about 10 di erent states and somehow those a big circle, and when the girls are given their
shirts always went with me even though I didn’t bid card, they run to the sorority of their choice.
wear them anymore for fear that after years of When I saw my biological sisters running to our
washing them, they would disintegrate!” circle, I ran to meet them with such joy and we
met in the middle of all my other sisters. It was
Then, she saw a company featured on the Today one of the happiest days of my life.”
Show called Campus Quilt. This seemed to
solve the dilemma of her box of t-shirts she was
afraid to continue to wear. Earlier this year,
Jennifer used Campus Quilt to turn her shirts
into a single blanket of memories. Jennifer
shares why this company drew her in, “What
I liked about the company is that they really
quilted the t-shirts rather than just sewed the
shirts together. My grandmother used to make
quilts so I know the di erence between a real
quilt and a fake one!”

When asked what story her quilt would tell,
Jennifer replied, “it would be one of not just
pledging a sorority but of getting involved in so
many aspects of the sorority from Greek Week,
to socials, to hayrides, to making memories with
people that are still my best friends today.”

Issue no. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013 To Dragma • 43

Kaylee Egerer

Kaylee Egerer is an Alpha Chi initiate from 2008. Upon graduating from Western
Kentucky in 2012, Kaylee constructed her quilt herself. “It took me 36 hours and 15
minutes, and it is my favorite thing that I own because I can wear all of my favorite shirts
at the same time now!”

Growing up in Michigan, her choice to go to college at Western Kentucky U and not
knowing anyone on campus was quite a risk. However, Kaylee’s mother, Beth Wilson
Egerer (Alpha Chi ’75) had created a legacy for her at WKU and in AOII. This legacy is
also depicted in the quilt and is Kaylee’s favorite square - the
navy shirt with yellow “a-o-pi.” Kaylee recalls incorporating
the shirt, “This shirt was my mother’s when she was an Alpha
Chi at WKU. It was from Sigma Chi’s Derby Days in 1977! It
was the only one I was scared to cut; I asked my mom at least 4
times if she was sure I should cut it.”

Kaylee’s quilt tells other stories as well. “My quilt is heavy,
lled with memories; like my bid day shirt, the day I found

out who my big was, the day my little found out I was her big,
when we won WKU Homecoming, camp-outs, philanthropy
events, and a shirt from the dance that I took a crush to when
I nally got the guts to ask him. My sisters were behind it all
with an unfathomable amount of laughter and love. This quilt
is my favorite reminder of all of the love that I was surrounded
with as an active member of Alpha Chi Chapter.”

44 • To Dragma Issue no. 1 • FallWInter 2013

Courtney Yates

While Jennifer Meisel and Kaylee Egerer and continuing the legacy was an honor when
designed their own quilts, Courtney Yates I rst pledged in fall 2007. It tells the story of
(Alpha Chi ’07) received her quilt for a gift and my growing in leadership and of friendships
as part of a much bigger surprise. Courtney’s that I will cherish each day. When I look at my
boyfriend, Mitch, had the quilt made as a blanket, I am reminded AOII is more than just a
gift for her 24th birthday. “Each shirt had a sorority to me - it is a sisterhood lled with love
meaning of an AOII event or place that Mitch that will never end.”
and I went to and AOII event shirts that I was in
charge of: Homecoming, Pi Chi, Greek Week, Today, Courtney keeps up with Did you know….
etc. Mitch knew how much I cherished those Alpha Chi Chapter from afar while
events with my AOII sisters. Mitch connected working in a neonatal intensive that there is a very special
the blanket with our memories together care unit in Dallas, TX. Jennifer quilt on display at AOII
throughout our college experience.” And works on Western Kentucky U’s International Headquarters?
then? Mitch proposed! campus and is able to connect While it is not compiled of
with young alumnae and members t-shirts, it is a celebration
As the fourth Yates daughter to join Alpha Chi while serving as a Panda Pal and of the grand tradition of
Chapter, Courtney’s AOII experience began attending Rituals. Kaylee now alumna membership in
with plenty of AOII t-shirts. She recalls, “I lives in Nashville, TN which is Alpha Omicron Pi. For AOII’s
was the only 1st day new member that already just a short drive from Western’s Centennial Convention in
had 100 AOII shirts. And, of course, I wore a campus in Bowling Green, KY. 1997, each alumnae chapter
di erent AOII shirt every day. You could say I She is able to remain connected was asked to make a square
was a little obsessed!” to the chapter and her sisters that for the quilt. The quilt
are still collegiate members. represents the friendships
Courtney’s favorite shirts are the ones that found in alumnae chapters
represent her own leadership roles within the What’s another bene t of turning across North America!
chapter. “My quilt tells a story of friendship your college AOII shirts into a quilt?
and love that will last a lifetime. Each square Space in your closet to shop the
has its own story of events and challenges AOII Emporium or order through
that have made me who I am today. Joining a your alumnae chapter for brand
sisterhood that my own three sisters (Candace new AOII tees to celebrate
Ballard, Alisha Wix, Maresa Kurtz) are a part of your life as an alumna!

Issue no. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013 To Dragma • 45

AOIIThe

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Lo In Fo Th Pe Ec
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s Eo S d , s D
a A l Ti g T f
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FoundationFocus

Foundation Volunteer Training Weekend

Young Alumnae Council

This fall, the AOII Foundation hosted a training session for Foundation
Ambassadors and the recently established Young Alumnae Council.
Twenty- ve attendees joined us for the two-day event held at AOII
Headquarters in Brentwood, Tennessee. A variety of information
was presented, including overviews and updates from the
Foundation, Fraternity and Properties.

Amanda Gary Delta Beta (U of Louisiana at Lafayette) Members of AOII Foundation’s first Young Alumnae
Amy Gatto Epsilon Chi (Elon U) Council (l to r): Morgan Harkrider, Kate Chapman,
Caroline Diczok Delta (Tufts U) Kate Sureck, Amanda Gary, Kate Peer,
Kate Chapman Xi Omicron (U of Arkansas) Samiyyah Ali, Amy Gatto, Laura Plummer,
Kate Peer Gamma Chi (Carleton U) Aimee Foret, and Merritt Simon.
Kate Sureck Pi Alpha (U of Louisville)
Aimee Foret Lambda Tau (U of Louisiana Monroe)
Laura Jones Plummer Alpha Delta (U of Alabama)
Merritt Simon Phi Chi (U of Chicago)
Morgan Harkrider Gamma Sigma (Georgia State)
Samiyyah Ali Delta Upsilon (Duke U)

AOII Foundation Ambassadors Name Location Network

If you would like to schedule a Foundation presentation Carin Adler Corona Del Mar, CA Network 8
within your chapter, please contact one of the following Danielle Antle White Settlement, TX Network 6
Ambassadors in your Network: Christine Brown Pinckney, MI Network 3
Jamie-Lynn Burns Coram, NY Network 1
AOII Foundation Ambassadors help promote the good works Tricia Conover McKinney, TX Network 6
of the AOII Foundation. (Pictured l to r, front row): Megan Heim, Julie Derby-Hunter Kalispell, MT Network 8
Celia Reed, Tricia Conover, Anna Guerra, Debbie Gardner; Debbie Gardner Decatur, AL Network 7
(2nd row): Rosie Heinrichs, Christin Pratt, Renee Hebert, Katy Geppert St. Louis, MO Network 6
(3rd row): Katy Geppert, Carin Adler. Anna Guerra Denham Springs, LA Network 7
Marty Harrison Apopka, FL Network 5
50 • To Dragma Beverly Hatcher Perrysburg, OH Network 2
Renee Hebert Seneca, SC Network 5
Megan Heim Brick, NJ Network 1
Rosie Heinrichs Louisville, KY Network 4
Amy Kumpel Concord, MA Network 1
Elyse Marley Mobile, AL Network 7
Lynnette McMahon Long Beach, CA Network 8
Dana Moreland Reno, NV Network 8
Ann Marie Menna Staten Island, NY Network 1
Christin Pratt Marysville, OH Network 2
Bailey Read Murfreesboro, TN Network 4
Celia Reed Acworth, GA Network 5
Rory Richardson Gaithersburg, MD Network 2
Annalise Sinclair Berea, OH Network 2
Marjorie Stevens Vancouver, BC Network 8

Issue no. 1 • Fall/Winter 2013


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