Spring 2021 - To Dragma

Spring 2021

PEELING BACK THE ARCHIVES:

1955: AOII'S FIRST TEST OF
DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION

Also in this issue...

AOII & The For the Love of... 2021 Fraternity
Arthritis Foundation Philanthropy & Service Brand Updates

Epsilon Omega (Eastern Kentucky U)
2 | Spring 2021

Contents

16 20

30 44

4 Editor’s Letter 36 Sincere Friendships: A Timeless
7 Viewpoint Treasure
8 Fraternity News 37 AOII Foundation Focus
10 Policy Governance: The AOII Impact 40 Spring Photos
12 AOII and the Arthritis Foundation 44 New Options to Color Your World:
16 For the Love of Philanthropy 2021 AOII Brand Updates
20 For the Love of Service 48 Things We Love
24 Highlights of Virtual LA 2021 52 Alumnae Chapter News
28 Come to Convention 2021 68 Shop the AOII Emporium
30 1955: AOII’s First Test of
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

On the cover: AOII’s first Black initiate in 1955, Fannielee “Margaret” Lowe Harris, 3
Iota Alpha (Idaho State U) performs at a San Francisco nightclub, circa 1967.

About Alpha Omicron Pi: from the editor
Alpha Omicron Pi was founded at Barnard College
in New York City, January 2, 1897, by Jessie Ihave had the opportunity to wear many hats over my
Wallace Hughan, Helen St. Clair Mullan, Stella years as an AOII staff member. Most of those years I
George Stern Perry & Elizabeth Heywood Wyman. have served as Editor of To Dragma and that will always
The Object of the Fraternity: be my most treasured role. A close second is serving
The object of the Fraternity shall be to encourage as the Fraternity’s liaison for our partnership with the Ar-
a spirit of Fraternity and love among its members; thritis Foundation. In this extremely rewarding role, I get
to stand at all times for character, dignity, scholar- to experience first hand the incredible ways AOII sup-
ship, and college loyalty; to strive for and support ports programs, events, research and, most importantly,
the best interest of the colleges and universities people suffering with arthritis. Check out our article on
in which chapters are installed, and in no way to page 12 to learn more about our partnership with the
disregard, injure, or sacrifice those interests for the Arthritis Foundation.
sake of prestige or advancement of the Fraternity A couple years ago, the Fraternity selected five frater-
or any of its chapters. nity Ends as focus areas - Character, Leadership, Ambi-
Culture Principles: tion, Service and Sense of Belonging. To Dragma will
A look at “how” we do things: Accountability focus on each End in the coming months, and we have
& Ownership, Collaboration, Engagement, selected SERVICE as our starting point with this issue.
Innovation, Open & Honest Communication. Beyond our work directly with the Arthritis Foundation,
How to Join Life Loyal AOII: we are spotlighting several chapters and individuals
Visit the Life Loyal page of the AOII website or that excel in this area. I wish we could showcase all of
contact [email protected]. our chapters and the thousands of you who serve the
How to Join an AOII Alumnae Chapter: causes you love. We also get to check in with our Alum-
Visit the Chapter Locator page on the AOII website nae Chapters in this issue. They each serve their com-
for contact information on an alumnae chapter munities, local collegiate chapters and the Fraternity so
near you. well. I hope you will be inspired as you read them.
International President Another hat I wear is serving as Staff Archivist, which
Crystal Grafton Combs, Nu Beta (U of Mississippi) I thoroughly enjoy. I had the privilege of participating
Executive Director in a Zoom call while our International Historian, Allison
Kaya Miller, Gamma Theta (U of South Florida) Allgier, interviewed Fannielee Lowe, AOII’s first Black
Alpha Omicron Pi is a member of the National initiate. She is a charming 83-year-old woman who is
Panhellenic Conference and the Fraternity living an amazing life. You will not want to miss reading
Communications Association. Allison Allgier’s interview with this special sister.
With our 125th anniversary approaching, it is the perfect
4 | Spring 2021 opportunity to roll out an update for our brand colors.
Check them out on page 42 to learn what we have
updated - and why! We are excited about the additions
and hope you are also!
Fraternally,

Mariellen Perkinson Sasseen, Alpha Delta (U of Alabama)
Director of Communications/Editor

We want to feature About To Dragma:
To Dragma is the official magazine of Alpha Omicron
your photos! Pi Fraternity and has been published since 1905.
The mission of To Dragma of Alpha Omicron Pi is: to
Tag @alphaomicronpi in your Instagram photos or email inform, educate and inspire our readers on subjects
your photos to [email protected] to be relevant to our Fraternity, our chapters, our members
featured. Don’t forget to follow AOII to stay in the know! or Greek life; to encourage lifetime AOII involvement;
to salute excellence; and to serve as a permanent
record of our Fraternity’s history.

Director of Communications/Editor
Mariellen Perkinson Sasseen, Alpha Delta
(U of Alabama)

Creative Director
Hillary Brewer, Sigma Gamma (Appalachian State U)

View To Dragma Online:
alphaomicronpi.org/news-events/to-dragma/

How to Contact To Dragma:
Mail: To Dragma, 5390 Virginia Way, Brentwood, TN
37027; phone: (615) 370-0920, fax: (615) 371-9736; or
email: [email protected]

How to Update Your Name or Address:
Go to the For Members page on the AOII website
and follow directions to claim/log in to your AlphaLink
account, or call (615) 370-0920.

Who Receives To Dragma:
Active AOII collegiate members, new members, Life
Loyal AOIIs, and dues paying alumnae members
receive all copies of To Dragma.
All AOII members with good mailing addresses receive
the Summer issue of To Dragma.
Due to the impact of COVID-19, the Fraternity will only
be releasing digital issues of To Dragma for the 2020-
2021 fiscal year.

Stay Connected:
facebook.com/aoiifraternity
twitter.com/alphaomicronpi
Instagram: @alphaomicronpi

5

Phi Sigma (U of Nebraska at Kearney)

6 | Spring 2021

Viewpoint

Our founders I always leave them with a renewed
shared with us sense of hope for our communities and a
that the mainspring stronger connection to our sisters.
of our Fraternity is One of my favorite memories is when I
Service. In AOII, this had the opportunity to attend a Jingle
includes service to Bell Run event in Nashville. As we walked
our national philan- the miles, I fell into step alongside a
thropic partner, the sister and her young daughter who
Arthritis Foundation, was preparing to attend college at the
as well as service to University of Alabama the following year.
local organizations She told me that she had every inten-
that are close to the tion of becoming an AOII and coming
hearts of our chap- back to walk this event as my sister. My
ters and members. heart filled with joy when I learned that
Service is such an she had become an initiated member of
important part of our Fraternity. A few years later, when
our sisterhood experience that it is one she wrapped up her time as a collegian,
of the five governance Ends identified I was once again filled with happiness
by our Fraternity, alongside Character, as she transitioned to life as an alumna
Leadership, Ambition, and a Sense of member. I have no doubt that her light
Belonging. It has been my experience will continue to shine bright in service to
that participating in acts of service helps our sisterhood and to others.
to build character, strengthen leader- These are just a few of the many memo-
ship, inspire ambition, and create a more ries I have shared with our sisters over
powerful sense of belonging for me as an the years, wherever my AOII adventures
individual and as a collective part of our have taken me. I believe that our founder
Fraternity. Elizabeth Heywood Wyman said it best,
As an international volunteer, I have “Let us grow old together, uplifted by the
had the opportunity to join our sisters consciousness of younger hands that will
for service projects across the country. carry our banner on to greater heights
Together, we have decorated cards of idealism and service.” I am so happy
and made bracelets to send to children to serve alongside our sisters of every
living with the challenges of arthritis; we generation, and I know that each of these
have stuffed pandas for patients at local generations will continue to carry our
hospitals; and we have packed boxes to banner on to greater heights in service to
send overseas as part of AOII’s Sisters our Fraternity and the world.
for Soldiers program. In addition, our Fraternally,
sisters have baked pies, sold pies, and
gifted pies to local food pantries and in Crystal Grafton Combs, Nu Beta (U of
support of other organizations; and then Mississippi) AOII International President
we have walked it all off together during
Jingle Bell Run and Walk to Cure Arthritis
events. While each of these events may
indeed provide a service for others,

Fraternity News

"Thank You" to Our AOII Volunteers! Women's Health Week is May 10-14

April 18-24 is Volunteer Appreciation Mark your calendars to join us May 10-
Week! We are honored to salute the 14 for our 5th annual Women's Health
hundreds of international and local volun- Week. This annual event has proven to
teers who work tirelessly for the Frater- be one of our most anticipated social
nity and AOII Foundation. Your countless media events of the year. Using health or
hours of service, as well as your talents fitness experts in numerous specialities,
and dedication, provide our chapters we will offer education and fun activities
and members with an outstanding mem- for you to improve your physical, mental
bership experience. Your dedication to and emotional health. You will not want
helping provide support to our chapters to miss it!
and members across the US and Canada
is appreciated!

Virtual JA Conference attendees Come to Virtual Convention 2021

May is Arthritis Awareness Month While we are sad to not be gathering
together in person this year, our virtual
Arthritis Awareness month is the perfect convention offers everyone the opportu-
time to spread awareness about AOII's nity to participate in an AOII Convention.
international philanthropy. Throughout Join us June 23-26 to experience some
the month of May, follow us on social or all of what Convention has to offer. Cu-
media as we share facts about this cause rious? Check out our Convention promo
that impacts more than 50 million Ameri- on page 28 to learn more!
cans every year. And flip over to page 12
to learn more about what AOII is doing in
support of the Arthritis Foundation.

8 | Spring 2021

Advising with Ambition Sessions

Advising with Ambition sessions are open for registration! This is
a training series to be hosted via Zoom geared towards (but not
exclusive to) the training of new advisers! The purpose of these
workshops is to provide additional support and direction to advisers.
Registration links, dates/times of these workshops, and additional
information can be found here!

Please contact Samantha Kemp, Assistant Director of Education &
Training with questions at [email protected].

Virtual Walk To Cure Arthritis Events Coming this Spring

Walk To Cure Arthritis (WTCA), hosted by the Arthritis Foundation,
is the largest arthritis gathering in the world and raises funds for
research and a cure. Except in a few locations, this year's events will
again be virtual. All AOII collegiate and alumnae chapters are en-
couraged to form teams and/or participate by going to arthritis.org.
Register your team under Team AOII, under National Teams. Be sure
to include your chapter's name in your team name.

Milestone Anniversaries

AOII sends congratulations to the following chapters that will be cel-
ebrating milestone anniversaries during the 2021-2022 school year.

• Nashville Area Alumnae Chapter, 100 years (October 1, 1921)
• Birmingham Alumnae Chapter, 75 years (February 18, 1946)
• Delta Delta (Auburn U), 75 years (August 10, 1946)
• Grand Rapids Alumnae Chapter, 75 years (October 24, 1946)
• Lambda Chi (LaGrange U), 50 years (May 15, 1971)
• Chicago City Alumnae Chapter, 25 years (June 2nd, 1996)
• Delta Rho (DePaul U), 25 years (June 2, 1996)

Saluting our 2020-2021 ELCs

Another year of travels for our Educational Leadership Consultants
is in the books, but this year has been like no other. These women
signed up for a great adventure of travel and connecting with wom-
en all across the US and Canada. Instead, those connections mostly
came via Zoom, but the impact they had remains immeasurable.
While stationed at a handful of chapter houses across the country,
they still spent countless hours connecting and making a difference.
Thank you to: Katie Blommel, Alyssa Craig, McKenna Gallagher,
Gabby Jackson, Morgan Maddox, Alivia Maxwell, Cate Skinner, and
Laura Joy Stewart!

Get the latest Fraternity News by visiting 9
alphaomicronpi.org/news-events/fraternity-news/

Fraternity News

THE IMPACT

by Jaynellen Jenkins, Phi Beta (East Stroudsburg U), International Vice President

Membership Connection activities serve to inform the visionary work of the AOII
Executive Board. Over the past year, Executive Board members hosted sessions
through roundtable discussions and the Fireside Chat series with various stakeholder
groups. Over time, we have compiled a common set of questions and then reviewed this
qualitative feedback to look for trends in responses. Our AOII volunteers are a valued
resource to the fraternity and hearing their voices is a key to our visionary work.

AOII Ritual inspires our sisters to seek and clear that our alumnae volunteers truly
a service greater than themselves. Our value the sense of belonging and friend-
volunteers strive ambitiously to carry into ships they have found in AOII and their de-
the world a spirit of generosity and kind- sire to make an impact on the lives of the
ness. They do this with one of our most collegians in which they serve. One par-
valuable personal resources which is our ticular volunteer shared, “AOII has brought
TIME. What compels them to do so? This friendships that surpassed my expecta-
answer rang clear in Membership Connec- tions and women who are always there
tion activities held with alumnae advisers for me and always willing to listen. AOIIs
at Leadership Academy in January with have inspired me to be that shoulder, voice
International President, Crystal Grafton and ear for others.” Alumnae advisers ex-
Combs. AOII makes an impact on the lives pressed their desire to have an impact as
of our volunteers and they seek to pay mentors to their collegians. They seek to
that forward by making an impact upon provide opportunities to those they advise,
those in which they serve. Their responses to serve as role models and help women
echoed common themes we heard from become the best version of themselves.
our Past International Presidents, Inter- In addition, they spoke about how AOII
national Standing Committee Chairs and has provided them with confidence and
Network Directors this past Fall. strengthened their own skills. They identify
Our alumnae volunteers have been these as leadership, organization, listening,
prompted to share AOII’s relevance in their and general work and life skills.
lives and what it is that they wish AOII to Alumnae volunteers share not only their in-
be known for. Trending in their responses terest in AOII making an impact on sisters'
were two stand-out themes. We hear loud lives, but also that AOII should make an im-

10 | Spring 2021

pact upon the world. In addition to our phil- leadership,” and “Support is knowing that
anthropic efforts, support was expressed whatever the challenges are, HQ staff and
for the Fraternity to continue to make a the Fraternity has my back, this makes dif-
difference with diversity, equity and inclu- ficult situations easier to deal with. If things
sion initiatives. An alumnae adviser stated, are tough, I have someone to turn to.”
“We are about being authentic and accept- We are most impactful in AOII when we
ing and we have been from the beginning. support our leaders with selfless zeal.
That’s not always easy, but we strive for Volunteer feedback through these mem-
inclusion and it makes us all better,” and bership connection activities indicate the
another said, “Tolerance and judgement significance our alumnae volunteers place
restrained by love is so important to live upon a trusted and a dependable support
out loud, and especially now.” Serving as system. They want to make an impact by
supportive resources for women's person- providing support, and they want to be
al development is frequently expressed by supported, and grow within it. We meet
alumnae volunteers. An alumnae adviser these needs first through the trusted
stated, “AOII should be a preeminent orga- relationships built between sisters. Our
nization for women.” AOII’s role in support- volunteers enjoy being a sister upon whom
ing our sisters to achieve their dreams so others have no fear to call. Being counted
that they in turn can personally make an upon and being able to count on others
impact upon the world was also explained. truly matters. If the future of the AOII is in
Our alumnae volunteers want AOII to con- the hands of well-chosen members, then
tinue to pivot and innovate. it is clear that those well-chosen members
Visionary thinking was also prompted are best nurtured and mentored by well
regarding the overall quality of the AOII supported and well inspired volunteers.
volunteer experience. When asked to pro-
vide examples of a well-supported vol- WHAT’S NEXT FOR EXECUTIVE
unteer life, advisers shared the support BOARD’S MEMBERSHIP
they are receiving within the changes to CONNECTIONS?
AOII’s Network Structure. Positive feed-
back was received regarding the Town AOII Executive Board members are looking
Halls conducted by our professional staff forward to connecting to alumnae chapter
and updates that have been made to members during roundtable sessions at the
Alphalink. Alumnae engagement was fre- Alumnae Leadership Conference in April
quently identified as an area for growth. and with collegiate officers at International
A sense of support and belonging was Convention in June.
also expressed with comments such as,
“I want to feel a sense of community and
sisterhood. I don’t want to feel alone in

11

Feature

AOII & THE ARTHRITIS FOUNDATION

How We Are Making A Difference

Alpha Omicron Pi’s partnership with the Arthritis Foundation over the past year has been
in full support of the Juvenile Arthritis Community. In a year impacted by Covid-19, the
tremendous fund raising efforts of our collegiate and alumnae chapters enabled AOII’s giving
levels to the Arthritis Foundation to remain strong. Here are the impactful ways AOII invested
your dollars to make a difference throughout 2020 and into 2021:

NATIONAL JUVENILE ARTHRITIS JA camp programs,
CONFERENCE which give kids with
In addition to the pandas that make an ap- arthritis and related
pearance every year, AOII was again proud childhood rheumatic
to be a supporting sponsor for the JA Con- diseases the chance
ference, the Arthritis Foundation’s signature, to make lasting memo-
nationwide event for families affected by ries. An obvious need
juvenile arthritis. The 2020 JA Conference existed to transition to
transitioned to a virtual event and provided a virtual camp plat-
form for 2020, so 20
a meaningful event virtual JA camps were
for 1,544 attendees, hosted between May
from 47 states and 9 8-August 5, serving
countries. Among the 741 campers from 41 different states. AOII's
programming highlights presence was visible on the camp tee shirts,
was the Virtual Panda camp workbook and promotional materials.
Clinic. This conference AOII’s Rosie even participated in a camp vid-
favorite program fea- eo! Even in a virtual environment, the virtual
tured AOII’s donated JA camp had a number of positive impacts
pandas in an interac- on campers, particularly with elementary and
tive play therapy ses- middle school age groups.
sion covering topics
designed to empower NATIONAL JA POWER PACKS
kids. AOII typically The National JA Power Packs is an AF pro-
hand-delivers nearly 800 stuffed pandas to gram fully funded by AOII. This toolkit con-
all attendees, but this year, the pandas were tains useful information and tools to assist
shipped to the children and teens in registra- newly diagnosed children and teens, as well
tion packets. Other programming included as their parents. It is often the first touch
sessions on nutrition, pain management, fam- point a family has with the AF during a stress-
ily coping, relationships, research, and more. ful time in their lives. There are two versions,
one for kids and one for teens. Both packs
JA CAMPS include AF Resource books, pamphlets, a
In 2020, AOII was again the presenting spon- teacher’s guide and more. The kids’ back-
sor for the Arthritis Foundation’s National

12 | Spring 2021

pack version ARTHRITIS CHAMPIONS SCHOLARSHIP
features a Along with two other program sponsors, AOII
microwavable helped fund scholarship opportunities for 20
teddy bear for deserving college students with arthritis or
hot and cold a related rheumatic disease who impact the
treatments and arthritis community, serve as positive role
the teen sling models and leaders and who live their best
pack features a life, while empowering others to do the same.
wrap for hot or
cold treatment. CARRA
More than 1,230 As part of the partnership with the Arthritis
packs were Foundation, AOII supports funding of re-
distributed in 2020. One JA parent shared, search projects through the Childhood Ar-
“The JA power pack has had a HUGE impact thritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance
on our lives. It has changed the way that I in- (CARRA). Current projects being funded by
teract with my daughter. It has also changed AOII include: Linda Hiraki’s project at The
the way I talk with her teachers and educate Hospital for Sick Children (Canada), Under-
them on what is going on with her." standing the genetics of childhood-onset
systematic lupus. Yuki Kimura’s project at
JA INSIGHTS Children’s Hospital/Hackensack UI, Biologic
In 2019, the Arthritis Foundation launched the switching and treatment effectiveness in JIA.
Live Yes! INISIGHTS Program, an analytics And Erin Treemarcki’s project at University
dashboard system that allows them to track of Utah, Emotional distress and acceptance
patient-reported outcomes in adults over of mental health interventions in pediatric
time. With AOII provided funding in October rheumatology.
2020, they were able to launch a JA com-
ponent for parents/guardians of children/
teens, ages 5-17. Their goals are for children
with arthritis to experience improved physi-
cal, emotional and social health and a better
experience of care.

CONNECT ON CAMPUS PROGRAM ARTHRITIS FOUNDATION NATIONAL
Like the JA Power Packs, this JA program is EVENT SUPPORT
also fully funded by AOII. In 2020, Connect Even faced with virtual-only events for Walk
on Campus shifted to a model similar to the to Cure Arthritis and Jingle Bell Run National
events, AOII was a significant contributor.
JA Power Pack distribu- Team AOII collectively raised $38,227 in
tion. Tote bags contain 2020 for Walk to Cure Arthritis (WTCA) and
tools and resources $31,662 for the 2020 Jingle Bell Run.
that help students navi-
gate college life while
managing arthritis and
offer connection oppor-
tunities to the Arthritis
Foundation. The AF
distributed 248 tote
bags to students during
2020.

13

Feature

Linda Grandolfo

An Arthritis Foundation and AOII Champion

On January 15, 2021, the Arthritis Foun- Linda has served in numerous AOII volun-
dation honored one of AOII’s most self- teer roles through the years, but none more
less volunteers, Linda Grandolfo, Nu Iota impactful to her than her years on the AOII
(Northern Illinois U), with their prestigious Executive Board (2006 to 2011) and the
Arthritis Foundation Champion Award. AOII Foundation Board (2011 to 2017). She
Presented during their online Evening of continues her service today as a member
Honors, Linda was recognized as a volun- of the AOII Fraternity Nominating Trustees
teer leader who has demonstrated a com- and an AOII Foundation Ambassador.
mitment to furthering the mission of the The Arthritis Foundation Champion Award
Arthritis Foundation through fundraising ef- salutes Linda’s passion for AOII’s philan-
forts, opening doors, building partnerships, thropy partner. In her own words, Linda
engaging volunteers, and/or championing shares how her service to the Arthritis
mission related activities in her own com- Foundation has enhanced her life and of-
munity. She is a phenomenal volunteer for fers encouragement to other AOII sisters to
the Arthritis Foundation, as well as a life- support the Arthritis Foundation.
long volunteer for AOII. Linda has a heart “My Arthritis Foundation journey has paral-
for service, and we salute her on this well- leled my AOII journey. Much like in AOII, I
deserved recognition.
Linda joined Nu Iota in 1970, at a time when
sororities were not popular, but that choice
proved to be a positive life-changing de-
cision as many of her Nu Iota collegiate
sisters have been her rock throughout life’s
tragedies and celebrations. As a collegian,
she served two years as a Recruitment
Chair and another as Panhellenic Delegate.
Linda's first alumnae chapter involvement
was with Chicago West Suburban, and
for the past 40 years, she has made Lake
County Alumnae Chapter a major part of
her life. She is currently Alumnae Chapter
President, and says, “My alumnae experi-
ence opened a world of many more AOII
sisters from many collegiate chapters. It has
been the launching pad for my AOII Execu-
tive Board and Foundation Board service.”

14 | Spring 2021

have attended several Arthritis Foundation tion. My life has been incredibly enriched
Conferences and meetings connecting with by this experience.
volunteers from so many places. About 16 “In addition, when AOII’s commitment to
years ago, I called my local Arthritis Foun- the Arthritis Foundation expanded from the
dation office and asked about volunteer AOII Foundation to the Fraternity, I finally
opportunities. I began volunteering at saw my dreams of AOII helping to find a
events, witnessing the stories shared of the cure for arthritis make a turn. Our power
children and adults who suffer each and of sisterhood, and our philanthropic ide-
every day. Many members of my family and als have created solid fundraising across
my late husband's family suffer greatly from the nation. When cures are discovered, I
arthritis. In 2006 when I was elected to the will know that AOII will have been a part of
AOII Executive Board, I was asked to join something that will help millions of adults
the Chicago Arthritis Foundation Board as and thousands of children. The work is
an ex-officio member. A few years later, I hard, but worth every minute.
was asked to join the Board as a full mem- “Sometimes, especially recently, I look
ber. Six years later in 2011, I was elected back on my almost 51-year AOII journey
to the AOII Foundation Board and contin- and smile. I hope that my AOII story and
ued my service on the Arthritis Foundation my Arthritis Foundation story will create so
Board. many lights of hope within our sisterhood. It
“Witnessing first-hand how the funds our is only recently that I could financially sup-
collegiate and alumnae members raise port both AOII and the Arthritis Foundation
each year has dramatically changed my life. at the level I can today. It is through a lot of
I’ve served the Arthritis Foundation on vari- hard work and priorities that I was able to
ous local and national committees. Serving make it happen. Please know that giving
as the Chicago Board Chair for four years time and giving monetarily when you can,
and chairing a gala that raised close to is the most important legacy you can give.
$500,000. Connecting to our community, When you give back to our Fraternity or to
connecting our sisters to our philanthropy our philanthropic cause, you are creating a
creates for me a platform to someday find a better world for everyone. Start a Walk to
cure for this disease. Currently I serve on a Cure Arthritis Team, join an alumnae chap-
National Volunteer Engagement Committee ter, plan a philanthropy event and connect
working with nationwide volunteers as the with your sisters. It’s all worth it!!”
Foundation moves to a volunteer organiza-

Feature

for the love of...

PPPhhhiiilllaaannnttthhhrrrooopppyyy

16 | Spring 2021

Tau, University of Minnesota

by Mariellen Sasseen, Alpha Delta (U of Alabama), "AOPizzeria" event
Director of Communications and to do it safely,
we partnered with
Tau (U of Minnesota) understands that a pizza parlor for
storytelling helps their members con- a fundraiser night
nect to AOII's philanthropy on a deeper where a portion
level. Last year, they hosted a mother- of the proceeds
daughter duo for an arthritis information raised would go
session that was both personal and mean- towards our phi-
ingful. The daughter had been diagnosed lanthropy." Many
with Juvenile Arthritis at a young age, and other causes
she inspired members with her personal were supported
stories of failures, triumphs and growth. through virtual
In a normal, non-Covid-19 impacted year, events and they
Tau’s annual Strike Out Arthritis! event sets added support
the stage for a great Minneapolis weekend for the Minne-
by combining their Parents’ Day brunch apolis Founda-
with a Minnesota Twins baseball game. tion for North-
While the event always proves to be a side Funders
fun family outing, the chapter successfully and donating to
expands the reach and ticket sales to their Women for Politi-
local Arthritis Foundation (AF) Board mem- cal Change.
bers, local AF office, and outreach to local Beyond fundrais-
JA families in the Twin Cities. Participants ing, the women
are invited to walk the bases while arthritis of this chapter
facts are read over the PA system for an are indispens-
exceptional arthritis educational event for able to their local
all attendees. AF chapter. They
Members also raise thousands of dollars proudly support
for the AF during two other popular events, their local Walk
“AOPizzeria” night at their chapter house to Cure Arthritis
and “Artists for Arthritis” at a local restau- event at the Mall
rant. For the first, a $5 ticket buys you a of America helping during check-in, run-
slice of pizza, a drink and a homemade ning the kids fun zone area and more.
dessert and brings hundreds of students to Each Fall, they are back working registra-
their house for a great evening of fun and tion, face painting, and working set up for
fundraising. "Artists for Arthritis" is a chap- their local Jingle Bell Run.  Additionally,
ter favorite event featuring local bands, a they sent volunteers to support their local
raffle and coffee house style refreshments. AF JA Family Day and JA Gala events.
During 2020-2021, a year when Covid-19 Tau loves giving back and Farrell adds,
turned fundraising into a challenge, Tau "We are looking forward to what the rest of
still found a way contribute. Erin Farrell, the year has in store and to continue mak-
Tau's Philanthropy Chair, admits the chap- ing a difference in people’s lives!"
ter had to get creative for their signature
fundraisers. "Recently, we had our annual

17

Feature

Toledo Area Alumnae Chapter, Toledo, OH

by Kirsten Kron, Sigma Alpha (West Virgina U), In addition to their various monthly ser-
Assistant Director of Properties vice projects, the chapter maintains its
two large yearly events. First, a Founders'
It’s difficult to narrow down just a few Day celebration, inviting local collegiate
highlights of the many service projects chapters, collecting stuffed pandas to
the Toledo Area Alumnae Chapter has put donate to the Toledo Children’s Hospital,
at the forefront of their operations over the and inviting young children affected by
last decade. These alumnae have not only Juvenile Arthritis and their families who are
positively impacted their local community supported each summer at Camp Dakota.
but the lives of women and children in and Once a week each summer, the camp
outside of the United States. Early in the turns its focus to children battling arthritis
2010s, the chapter leadership, including providing resources and creating their own
Dawn Wright and Cynthia Skiver as Pro- sense of belonging. Their second large
gramming Chair and Philanthropic Chair, event is their annual Baskets and Brunch
decided to create an overarching theme Benefit Raffle. In 2020, the chapter raised
for each year. For 3-4 monthly meetings, $15,000. The Toledo AC submits a mini
chapter members are encouraged to bring grant request through the AOII Foundation
donatable items connected to a service to support Camp
project that compliments the yearly theme Dakota each year.
that has ranged from Inspiring Women, Despite the chal-
Service to Movies/Books and Decades. lenges the last
Dawn and Cynthia emphasized the im- year brought, the
portance of encouraging and supporting chapter adapted
general members own passions for ser- and moved the
vice, where many of their most successful benefit online this
philanthropic partnerships have originated. year.
The alumnae are dedicated to creating a Looking forward
sense of belonging and with that, having into 2021, the
their members connect to not only one chapter is ready
another but also their local Toledo com- to adapt to wher-
munity which many of their philanthropic ever the need
efforts serve. Going beyond Toledo, the for service has
chapter has been a supporter of ‘Beadfor- shifted after the
Life,’ an organization that collected unused challenging past
beads that would be made into jewelry by year. Without a
impoverished women in Uganda and then doubt, the chap-
sold in the United States. The organiza- ter will continue
tion has developed into a business school to find ways, big
to teach women how to be entrepreneurs and small, to serve
with the intention to raise more women out others.
of poverty.

18 | Spring 2021

Omicron, University of Tennessee

by Brook Clifford, Nu Omega (Northern Kentucky U), College Fresh’s
Director of Properties Operations donation of
food for the
For a chapter like Omicron (U of Tennessee), attendees who
philanthropy seems second nature. Tristan buy tickets to
Conroy, Omicron’s current Vice President of attend. To ac-
Philanthropy, said “Philanthropy is an opportuni- commodate the
ty to implement selflessness as it stirs purpose current global
and hope in the hearts of those serving and health crisis,
being served.” most recently
Omicron won the Collegiate Excellence in Phi- the chapter
lanthropy Award at Leadership Institute 2020. did a drive-thru
The chapter prides themselves on their many version and
service events and interests which span from still raised over
their chapter’s local cause of raising funds for $8,000.00.
the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society to the Further, a
Fraternity’s philanthropy of supporting the Ar- member of the
thritis Foundation. chapter origi-
“Juvenile Arthritis is near to our hearts as we nated an “Al-
have built relationships with the children in our pha Love Day”
community that struggle with arthritis,” Con- event which
roy said. “What I see in Omicron is that we are supports mental
so passionate to raise awareness along with health aware-
money because it is a condition that is often ness. Members
overlooked.” of Omicron
This year the chapter hosted their 60th annual hand out candy
AOII BBQ, a football tailgating event which is with encourag-
the longest standing philanthropy event on ing notes and mental health resources
UTK’s campus. The chapter was happy they both locally and nationally. While they acknowl-
were still able to have a socially distanced edge this may seem like a small gesture - that is
event even amidst the COVID-19 pandemic by just their point - that it doesn’t “take something
creatively renting out a local drive-in theatre. grand to change someone’s life.”
They were able to cater the barbecue while For chapters looking to make service a bigger
watching the football game on the big screen. part of their chapter’s culture, Conroy’s biggest
People attend the event for free but they raise piece of advice would be to partner with other
money for the Arthritis Foundation through do- clubs and organizations on your campus.
nations, raffle entries and selling food. Not only “Philanthropy is one of the best ways that our
do they always look forward to this event for sisterhood as a chapter grows,” she said. “I love
the fundraising and philanthropy aspects, but watching my sisters get to know one another
they truly enjoy the community that it brings to better and create new memories while giving
their chapter through alumnae, volunteers and of themselves to something greater than any
other members of the Greek community. of us.”
The chapter’s second most successful event is
“Taco Tuesday.” Taco Tuesday is sponsored by 19

Feature

for the love of...

Service

Chastidy Burns, Phi Chi (U of Chicago)

by Madison Smith, Kappa Delta (Wright State U), and co-chair/
Digital Marketing Manager co-founder of
the Racial Jus-
Chastidy Burns is the epitome of In- tice Coalition.
spiring Ambition. To say that she is According to
dedicated to public service would be an its mission
understatement. Not only does she give statement,
back to her community in Chicago, but she “the CBA YLS
continues to give back to Alpha Omicron Racial Justice
Pi, previously serving as a CA for Phi Chi Coalition was
(U of Chicago). In her day job, Chastidy has formed for the
served as an Assistant Public Defender for purpose of
the Cook County Public Defender’s Office, collaborating
and more recently has accepted a position with leading
as Counsel for the US Senate Judiciary forces in the
Committee for Senator Richard Durbin - Chicagoland legal community to take ac-
certainly an incredible achievement! tion against racial injustice in the following
ways: Service, Community Engagement
Aside from her impressive resume, Chasti- and Education.” Through her role, Chastidy
dy is a fearless leader for change, which is has partnered with My Block, My Hood, My
obvious from her various leadership roles City (M3) and the Center for Disability and
and volunteer positions. Chastidy currently Elder Law (CDEL) to host an advanced di-
serves as 2nd Vice-Chair of the Chicago rectives workshop for seniors in 2020. She
Bar Association's Young Lawyers' Section

20 | Spring 2021

Left and above: BWLA Law Program
session in action at Gary Comer College
continued that partnership with M3 and Board, a Prep.
CDEL to host a public benefits application COVID-19
workshop for seniors and a PPE distribu- hardship grant was created. This grant
tion program for seniors in 2020. distributed $10,000 to 20 students offset-
Chastidy has also given her time to the ting the loss of opportunities caused by
Black Women Lawyers Association (BWLA), the pandemic last year. The BWLA has also
serving in a variety of roles, from Presi- been able to provide pro bono attorneys to
dent to Chair of the Scholarship Board. protect the rights of protestors during sum-
Through this, she has partnered with the mer of 2020 and launch a voter education
Cook County Public Defender's office to campaign through the Civil Rights Action
help provide pro bono attorneys to protect Committee (CRAC).
the rights of protestors during summer of
2020. She also launched a voter educa- Chastidy’s continuous commitment to mak-
tion campaign, which included speaking ing the world a better place than how she
to the Illinois Department of Corrections found it is truly inspiring! We are so proud
about felon voter rights through the new of all of her ac-
Civil Rights Action Committee (CRAC) and complishments
provided pro bono expungement services. and wish her the
During her presidency, Chastidy introduced best in her new
a Street Law Program which teaches know- role as Counsel
your-rights and life skills lessons to high for the US Sen-
school students. After not being able to be ate Judiciary
in person in 2020, the Street Law Program Committee.
is continuing virtually this year. Chastidy
says it is “focusing on hot topics such as Learn more
the Federal legislative process, the new IL about Chastidy
criminal justice reform bill, the January 6th by watching her
insurrection, the impeachment process, Inspire Ambition
and others.” Learn more about the Street series inter-
Law Program here. Through her current views from 2019
work as the Chair of the Scholarship Fund and 2021.

21

Feature

Sydney Knott, Nu Lambda (U of Southern California)

by Mariellen Sasseen, Alpha Delta (U of Alabama), da so she
Director of Communications and the other
new members
Horses4Heroes is a national non-profit worked tire-
organization created in 2006 by Syd- lessly to estab-
ney Sullivan Knott, Nu Lambda (U of South- lish the chap-
ern California). While her dream started out ter. "In starting
as a way to say thank you to the men and a non-profit
women in our country whose call of duty is totally from
to protect, serve, teach and heal, their goal scratch, I drew
today is to make horseback riding pro- up on the les-
grams affordable and accessible to these sons learned
local heros and their families. from my
"Horses heal, it's as simple as that," says experience as
Sydney. "They boost your self-esteem and a member of
self-confidence, they reduce your stress, the founding
anxiety and you feel less depressed after pledge class
working with and riding horses." The flag- of Nu Lambda
ship facility is located in Las Vegas and Chapter." She
offers low cost programs including riding added, "I am
lessons, camps, birthday parties, field trips, pleased to
and team building. Sydney adds, "We also say that the
offer health and wellness programs for frustrating,
Veterans with PTSD, victims of domestic challenging
abuse and violence, recovering addicts, at- and daunting Top: Sydney on horseback; Bottom:
risk youth and teens and others who need experience at Horses4Heros Advisory Board Member
a hand up not a hand out." USC did not Kim Rodgers Westhoff & Sydney Knott
Interestingly, the Horses4Heroes advisory
board is comprised entirely of AOII sisters deter me from
from Nu Lambda. These sisters have sup- the frustrating, challenging and daunting
ported her passion from the very begin- experience of launching a non-profit. I also
ning and continue to do so today. Many drew upon my 40 years as a public rela-
have married service members and First tions professional."
Responders, so they understand first hand
the rigors and realities of a life of service. From the beginning, Sydney sought the
Sydney was a charter member of Nu Lamb- wisdom and advice of her sorority sisters,
including Nancy O'Neill and Dorene Opava

22 | Spring 2021

Rutter, who were working with Traumatic many boards."
Brain Injury at the VA. Carol Levonian
Wright also had a spot in what she calls her Their theme for
original "Kitchen Cabinet," and she drew up 2021 is Healthy
on the wisdom of fellow Trojan and dear Living through
friend, Ellen Jones Burson. Horses and their
Sydney shares, "In October 2018, our or- mental health
ganization was at a critical point ... our five and wellness
year residency was coming to an end in a programs are
city-controlled regional park, Floyd Lamb called Healing
Park at Tule Springs, and we were scram- through Basic
bling to find a new home for 20 horses, a Horsemanship.
dozen farm animals and our operations. You can learn
Another challenging and daunting task to much more
find two to five acres and move in less than about the pro-
90 days." Also occurring in October 2018, grams offered at
AOII Nu Lambda alumnae gathered in Palm Horses4Heroes
Springs for a 42-year reunion. As they by visiting their
wrapped up the weekend, Sydney's sisters website, Horse-
surprised her with a donation of more than s4Heroes.org.
$3,500 for Horses4Heroes. She admits, Or learn more
"That weekend, I was given the confidence about Sydney
to face this latest challenge, finding a new by listening to Top left: Nu Lambda Charter Members at
home, and was determined to lead Horse- a 2018 Reunion in Palm Springs. Above:
s4Heroes into a new chapter for our non- AOII Interna- Three photos from training workshops,
profit. It was during this weekend and sub- tional President showing how horses can help children,
sequent meetings that I invited my sorority Crystal Grafton adults and families conquer obstacles.
sisters to join me on the Board of Directors.
Not only are they sisters who have my Combs's pod-
back, they are talented women who would cast from her January 15, 2021 episode,
be welcome and have been welcomed, on Click here for #CoffeeTalkWithCrystal.

23

Event Recap

HIGHLIGHTS OF VIRTUAL

LEADERSHIP ACADEMY 2021

Over the weekend of January 9-10, In addition to these six collegiate officers,
2021, over 1,000 attendees took part Leadership Academy 2021 hosted two
in AOII’s Virtual Leadership Academy (LA). adviser tracks for the following:
In order to accommodate the continued
safety concerns around travel due to the • Chapter Adviser
pandemic, the Executive Board, volunteers • New adviser, with less than three years
and professional staff made the decision
to host Leadership Academy virtually, of advising experience
similarly to Virtual Leadership Institute (LI) This new structure provided a space for
this past summer. This decision provided each officer and adviser to make connec-
a new opportunity to invite more officers tions through their specialized training in
and another adviser to join LA and move breakout rooms and small group discus-
the date to earlier in the semester to better sions.
train and prepare collegiate officers and The weekend began with an opening
advisers for the upcoming year. session to welcome all attendees to Vir-
The following collegiate officers were tual LA. The opening session provided
invited to join LA and attend an individual some information about the event and
training path created by professional staff had International President Crystal Grafton
and volunteers specifically for their office:

• Chapter President
• Vice President of Chapter

Development
• Vice President of Standards
• Vice President of Membership

Recruitment
• Vice President of Communications
• Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

24 | Spring 2021

Combs open with Ritual. All of time. After the break and
officers and advisers then the third track of the
broke into their individual- day, attendees then
ized tracks for the first part went to Alpha As-
of the day. These tracks signments or Chap-
were facilitated by members ter Adviser Round-
of AOII’s Education Com- tables. These were
mittee, selected volunteers, specifically tailored
and professional staff mem- to each officer or
bers. Each officer or adviser adviser role to
role had a specific team of provide them with
facilitators dedicated to their a time to debrief
office in order to provide with their fellow
more in-depth and focused officers or advis-
trainings than in any previ- ers in the same
ous LA events. It was a time role and reflect on
for officers and advisers what they learned
to learn and review their in their tracks
resources and where to find throughout the
them, review the skills they day. Specifically for
need to know as an officer the officers, they
or adviser and finally begin were asked to cre-
to prepare them to do their ate a presentation
job over the next year. The to showcase what
education tracks provided a they have learned.
safe space for officers and In the Alpha As-
advisers to work together signments, officers
in breakout rooms to make were broken into
connections while learning small groups to work
from each other. together to create a
There were breaks interwo- presentation show-
ven into the day between casing their plans
tracks to provide sisters for the semester
from across time zones to taking into account
take some time away from everything they
the screen as Zoom meet- learned throughout
ings can become taxing the weekend. The
over an extended amount presentations were

25

Event Recap

on Sunday at the en they lead in an effort to help them
end of the day. create and sustain meaningful relation-
ships with other women
After the Alpha • How to manage/balance friendships
Assignments and with women you lead (including how to
Chapter Adviser communicate expectations, boundar-
Roundtables, all ies, and needs)
attendees came
together for the Following this session, all attendees then
keynote speaker, met in groups with their individual chap-
Danielle Bayard ter sisters to discuss their day, ideas and
Jackson, certi- create short- and long-term goals for their
fied friendship time as a leaders. This activity wrapped up
Danielle Bayard Jackson, coach, author, the first day of Virtual LA and gave attend-
certified friendship coach, author, and Founder of ees time to recharge for another full day of
and Founder of Friend Forward Friend Forward. training, networking and preparing.

She spoke on On Sunday, the morning began with at-
how to manage friendships as a woman tendees heading straight into their next
leader and shared how to create and track where facilitators were diving even
sustain personal friendships as leaders, deeper into their specific role and best
along with how to facilitate friendships and practices from what others have experi-
connections among those we lead. Her enced and how they can be even better
30-minute keynote was followed by time prepared than their predecessors. By this
for Q&A to allow attendees to better un- point, attendees had
derstand the importance of female friend- made connections
ships throughout their leadership role in with one another and
the chapter. had opportunities to
be vulnerable about
The primary take-a-ways were: the positives or the
• Understand the importance of main- concerns they had
taining personal friendships when in a about their office,
position of authority chapter or situa-
• Understand how to model the key ele- tions they expect to
ments of platonic relationships for the face over the next
women they lead few months within
• Have the confidence and skills to medi- their role. They
ate hard conversations between wom- were able to sup-

26 | Spring 2021

port one another and also ize their plans before
share more insight into what starting their Alpha
they needed as an officer or Assignment presenta-
adviser in their role specifi- tions. This was a time
cally during this difficult time where the small groups
throughout the pandemic presented their plans
and social distancing. they had created to-
Officers and advisers then gether to the larger
gathered another time for group of fellow officers,
their Alpha Assignments advisers, volunteers and
and Chapter Adviser Round- staff members. Each had
tables to further debrief a short amount of time
everything that had been to display their ideas,
discussed and discovered creativity and plans to
that morning. This provided execute everything they
them a time to reflect rather had learned throughout
than just have information the weekend and then
coming at them all day. They had a time for Q&A. This
were challenged to create created a space for offi-
a take-home action plan to cers who live across North
bring to their chapter to initi- America to connect with
ate conversations on creat- each other outside of their
ing goals and making plans own chapter and truly
for their role. After this sec- learn from their peers.
tion, there was a break for The weekend ended
all attendees to take time to with the closing ses-
eat, relax and refresh for the sion around 5:00 p.m.
final afternoon of LA. CT where International
Officers then joined their President Crystal Grafton
last track and their last Combs closed the event
Alpha Assignment to final- with AOII Ritual.

Event Promo

COME TO CONVENTION 2021

One of AOII’s most anticipated events, The decision to move to a virtual Conven-
Virtual International Convention, is tion was not taken lightly. The Executive
right around the corner! If you haven’t Board, in partnership with AOII profes-
done so already, mark your calendars for sional staff, made the decision after care-
Wednesday, June 23 through Saturday, ful consideration, research and conversa-
June 26 to spend time virtually conducting tions with the health and safety of each
the business of the Fraternity, celebrat- member in mind. It is the hope that due to
ing with sisters, networking and so much Convention being virtual more members
more. Registration is now open through than ever before will have the opportunity
April 30 for all members. to attend due to lowered costs and the
Professional staff and volunteers are travel factor being removed.
working tirelessly to ensure the cherished The full Convention experience, includ-
traditions of Conventions remain while ing Rituals and Candle Lighting, engaging
adding exciting new opportunities avail- keynotes, sisterhood, education sessions,
able to attendees due to the new virtual celebrations of the Fraternity, AOII swag,
format. and more will cost only $189.70 per at-

28 | Spring 2021

tendee. Part-time registration options are Anniversary.
also available, starting at $50. Registration Many items and
has traditionally been a personal expense, opportunities
but at this time, chapters are asked to re- similar to the re-
tain the original cost of registration in their veal of the Ruby
budget for Collegiate Chapter Presidents, Badge will be an-
Collegiate Chapter Advisers, or Alumnae nounced prior to
Presidents to attend. International volun- Convention with
teers should plan for the registration fee numerous salutes
to continue to be a personal expense. For to this exciting milestone throughout the
more information on this topic please visit event. There will be information provided
the FAQs. through email and social media about how
Even though Convention is virtual, the all members and Convention attendees
business of the Fraternity and long-stand- can take part in the 125th Anniversary cel-
ing traditions will still remain including ebration. The official celebration will begin
all elements of Business Sessions and at Virtual Convention and will commence
Awards. The flow and way they are con- at Leadership Institute 2022. For more
ducted may look a little different due to information about the 125th Anniversary
technology innovations, but the integrity celebration visit the AOII Fraternity News
of the event will remain constant. Virtual post about the upcoming Quasquicenten-
Convention will be filled with opportuni- nial.
ties like never before such as networking More information around registration,
with new and established friends to fun 125th Anniversary components and all
activities tailored to specific audiences. It things surrounding Virtual Convention
will be a time for any AOII who can attend will be coming soon through email and
to reflect on this past year and see how AOII’s social media. Make sure to check
sisterhood, love and friendship remains the Virtual Convention page on the AOII
relevant and important even through the website for more information, and follow
hardest of times. AOII’s official Facebook, Instagram, Twitter
Another exciting component of Virtual and LinkedIn to keep up with all upcoming
Convention is that it marks the official start information. We cannot wait to see you
of celebrating of AOII’s upcoming 125th there!

ROSE TRIBUTE SALES BEGIN MAY 3RD

A Rose Tribute is a wonderful way to show AOII Foundation Loyalty Fund. Recipients
a sister that you care! Virtual Rose Tributes will be notified via email and additionally,
will be available for purchase beginning donors who purchase 10 or more Rose
May 3rd on the AOII Foundation website. Tributes will receive a limited-edition
Rose Tributes are $5 each and benefit the Foundation sticker!

Purchase Rose Tributes

29

Feature

1955: AOII’S FIRST TEST OF
DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION

by Allison Allgier, Epsilon Omega (Eastern Kentucky U), International Historian and Past
International President

30 | Spring 2021

“Alpha Omicron Pi was born pledged wisdom and a great sense of humor in
to inclusiveness and to election all of her interactions. It is an honor to
by character.” Stella George Stern Perry, present the very open and honest story
"History of Alpha Omicron Pi by the of Fannielee Marguerite “Margaret”
Grand Historian 1923." Lowe Harris.
For most everyone, this past year
has been a time of self-reflection on EARLY LIFE
so many levels. On the topic of racial
inequality, current events have chal- As Fannielee honestly
lenged us to dig deep into our own shared, her birth in Idaho
hearts as well as into the fundamental was a result of a passion-
tenets of the organizations we support. ate affair between a Black
As AOII’s International Historian, it felt porter from Alabama and
imperative to research AOII’s history a white woman married
as it relates to race and discrimination. to a much older man. She
There was a sense of confidence going was put up for adoption
into the project because of the founda- and never met her birth
tional values of AOII, quotes similar to parents. Many years later,
Stella’s above, and our ritual. However, she learned the children’s
there was some trepidation about what home took great care to
past social norms within the context of find “a good Black family”
past decades might reveal. to adopt her. Her adopted
After months of research, it is a pleasure mother was a domestic
to introduce you to AOII’s first Black worker who later worked
member, Fannielee Marguerite “Mar- for the railroad and her
garet” Lowe Harris, Iota Alpha (Idaho father was a janitor who
State U) who pledged AOII in 1955 and worked almost 20 hours a
was initiated in March of 1956. There day. Fannielee stated, “We Top to bottom: Fan-
is a great deal of good in Fannielee’s lived in a tight knit com- nielee in 1938 at three
journey to becoming an AOII sister but munity and that was one months, and in 1942.
omitting the truth about how elected
AOII leaders struggled with the decision good thing about segre-
would be misleading. It was exciting to gation. Because there were places that
come across Fannielee’s initiation infor- we couldn’t go, the end result was we
mation in the AOII Archives from more stayed close and that made for a tight
than 65 years ago. And it was a joy to community. Everybody helped raise
reach out to her, begin a discussion, the children, and everything centered
and then ultimately interview her for this around church where my parents were
article. upstanding Christians in the Black com-
The following words do not do her munity.” With a smile and a chuckle,
justice as she radiates positivity, love, Fannielee added, “My mother only had
a 6th grade education, but had a PhD
in life. The older I got, the smarter my
momma got!”

On left: Fannielee performs at a San Francisco nightclub, circa 1967. 311

Feature

Her mother worked in the kitchen of a from AOII, Fannielee recalls that those
local doctor whose daughter, Pat, was memories now are “vague, because it
the same age as Fannielee. They played was 200 years ago! All my friends were
together since the age of four or five already in AOII, really good friends, and
and knew each other well. As young all of them were white. My two best
girls, they went to the same school and friends were Pat Groom Jones who was
even though school was very structured the doctor’s daughter as well as Diane
then, they were still able to be friends. Falter Bilyeu who later became an Idaho
“These families really taught tolerance State Senator. They were my friends,
and lived it. Now as families, we didn’t and I was thrilled to join their group
mix socially due to the indescribable when they offered me the opportunity. I
lines that existed, but as kids, we were didn’t have a heavy grip on the reality of
able to come through some of them. me being the young Black lady joining a
Imagine that a daughter of a domestic white sorority.”
could be friends with the daughter of a In December of 1955, notice of Fann-
physician!” ielee’s pledging reached AOII's Execu-
tive Committee (now Executive Board)
It was due to teasing in via a confidential letter from a company
school that inspired Fan- vender with local representation in
nielee to change her name Idaho, that read: “Your chapter at Idaho
to Margaret. “When you are State University has pledged a Negro
twelve in the Black com- girl.” After reflection, AOII's elected lead-
munity you are allowed to ers determined that the situation would
change your name, so I best be monitored weekly through the
changed mine to Margaret Chapter Adviser until after the new year.
to not have to fight issues “The reports concerning the pledge
and teasing that came with class of Iota Alpha Chapter are under
Fannielee.” consideration by the Executive Com-
mittee,” cryptically read one archive
JOINING AOII document. While encouragement was
Fannielee grew up in Po- suggested to their Chapter Adviser
catello, Idaho and had a lot to have the chapter reconsider their
of high school friends who decision, the CA's response indicated
attended Idaho State Uni- clear conviction by the chapter and the
versity. “I knew my friends Alumnae Advisery Committee to stand
were in a ‘club’ and I wanted by their original decision. The CA wrote,
to join that club to be with “The more I work with this situation,
my friends. I had known the worse I feel about it. Margaret is a
these same friends since very fine person. It seems terrible that
elementary school, so it was someone who would be one of the best
truly my familiarity with them members of the chapter were she any
that drew me to AOII.” other color should be cause of such
controversy.”
When asked how she felt
about receiving her bid

Top to bottom: Poca-
tello High School band
photo and high school

32 g| rSapdruinagti2o0n2, 11954.

Additionally, reports to AOII's elected to be initiated given the
leadership in January of 1956 included caveat that there be no
strong support provided by University pictures and no press re-
President Dr. McIntosh. He staunchly lease about the initiation.
supported the chapter and Margaret An official statement was
highlighting the fact that when AOII was drafted, although report-
chosen to charter a chapter on their edly not ever utilized, that
campus, assurances were given that stated, “The governing
AOII had no restrictive clause regard- law of AOII contains no
ing membership and that pledging was discriminatory provisions.
based on friendship. It was also made Each collegiate chapter is In Pocatello, circa 1955
known that a local alumna threatened
to go to the press if action was taken given the right to select its
against the chapter. The possibility of new members. Our chapter at Pocatello
chapter probation and/or charter re- has made its choice.” For many years,
moval was discussed by AOII leader- Iota Alpha remained a thriving AOII
ship although documentation indicated chapter until changing campus condi-
their desire of gaining input from AOII tions led to their closure in 1981.
Council, composed of all collegiate and
alumnae chapter presidents as well as From Fannielee’s perspective, she
international volunteers, prior to final admitted, “Mostly, I was unaware of the
decisions being made. A member of heavy drama that was going on behind
AOII’s elected leadership wrote, “I most the scenes with AOII’s leadership. When
certainly hate to go to Council with this I had to interface slightly with AOII
but prefer that course to the uncertainty leadership, it was not hurtful for me at
of knowing whether our decision – one that time. My friends stood up for me
way or another – would be supported ferociously and did not involve me in
by the majority of our group. I would the backroom drama. It wasn’t until 40
not make any decision regarding Iota years later that I found out there was
Alpha and its charter without the con- some drama. During dinner with my
sent of Council. I want to be sure that friend Diane, she shared that the Uni-
AOII wants to do whatever we decide versity President was even involved. I
to do and won’t hide behind subterfuge didn’t know any of that.”
like scholastic requirements, etc. It is
dishonest and not in keeping with AOII When specifically asked, Fannielee
standards. It is important that we finish shared that she honestly did not expe-
this affair with respect and admiration of rience micro-aggressions as an AOII
the college chapters. They are the heart member. “My memory is that once the
of things if we are to grow as a frater- little bump of pledging was over, I had
nity. If they support Iota Alpha, then we no issues at all from within AOII. As for
will have to and survive.” anything coming from other campus
In the end, the AOII Executive Commit- organizations, everyone was polite
tee made the decision to allow Margaret to my face. One of the downsides of
northern racism is that someone is in
your face telling you how wonderful

3131

Feature

you are and then talks about you like a shared, “I’d like to
dog behind your back. If anyone else say, ‘Do you’ and
had issues with me, they were hiding it. have them fit you.
Once the pledging was over, I just went Don’t fit in. Have
back to being me. There was a little bit them fit in around
of “you’re different” from those outside you. Don’t go
the organization. AOII just accepted me through all of that,
for who I was. They dealt with me as a it’s a waste of time.
human being.” You are fitting into a
structure that doesn’t
Fannielee added that she was thrilled really know itself
to join AOII because there was a real anyway. When you
status with being in a sorority. She was are true to you, they
enamored by the whole process and can fit around you
ready be an active member. “My great- and make an authen-
est memory was being initiated. The tic community. That
ceremony was just so beautiful. We is what I would say.” Above: Jazz rehearsal
were all crying. It was a lot like my own practice with "the guys,"
graduation, a big moment of transition
for me. It was very solemn and sacred, When asked what circa 1968.
making vows for a lifetime. I was in the
chapter for 3-1/2 years until I graduated.” she would say to
AOII leaders today, she shared, “I’d say,
When asked her thoughts regarding ‘Guys you did it!’ I see young sisters. I
AOII at the time, Fannielee offered, “the see inclusivity. It’s not overwhelming. As
fact that my friends were courageous long as you are trying, I am all in your
enough to stand up for a principle still corner. It’s just beautiful. It makes so
touches me today. That type of friend- much of what I had to endure as a Black
ship, based on love, can solve larger woman in the US worth it and reminds
issues where we can go past all of the me that I succeeded.”
differences. Even though there was
pressure, the AOII leadership did back The Abolish Greek Life movement is
down. [Some of] these were southern another topic of special interest for Fan-
ladies so I know it wasn’t easy for them, nielee. “I’ve just recently heard about
I’m sure. They did make the right deci- it, only because my granddaughter will
sion ‘even if they wouldn’t allow me in be going to college soon in Reno. I am
the pledge picture.’ I respect and under- protective of Greek life. There are hier-
stand that given the time. Now, if that archies in every society – if hierarchy
was my granddaughter today, I would is their issue, I don’t believe abolishing
feel very differently. Overall, AOII comes Greek Life would help. They need to
out shining to me.” address inclusion from within to change
the system. That is what we have to do
DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION in society. I had a good time as an AOII
Speaking directly to any young woman and I really benefited from being includ-
struggling to fit in today, Fannielee ed. There was a strong sense of inclu-
sion and closeness. When you find that

34 | Spring 2021

sense of belonging, it is so important. and she loves how “they each have a
Overall there was the general atmo- good heart.”
sphere of how tight we were. We moved
as a unit doing anything on campus. SERVICE
You couldn’t put a wedge between us. Even at eighty-three, Fannielee volun-
Looking back, I remember more things teers two, 8-hour evening shifts each
about the experience emotionality than I week for San Francisco Suicide Preven-
remember the details.” tion. “It’s a nurturing organization with
compassionate people. It’s hard work,
FAMILY AND CAREER but they told me I am an asset to the
Following positive theatre experiences organization which touched me. I have
while in college, Fannielee went to the to be available and fully present for
American Theatre Wing in New York what might perhaps be a life and death
after graduation. She worked for CBS in situation and what is said matters. You
the daytime and tried her hand at audi- have to have an open heart, but with
tions in the evening, but there were few boundaries. I love joy. I have joy now
jobs available for Black women. When and I can be happy for no reason. I don’t
her father became ill, she returned have to depend on something external.
home to Idaho and stayed a year to be That comes from my meditation and all
his caretaker. She decided to go to San the spiritual work I have done. I can be
Francisco for a two-week visit, meaning happy here (tapping her heart) and not
to return to NY afterward, but never left. have a dime.”
“I met my ex-husband the first day I was
in San Francisco and we were together Still smiling, and with im-
for 10 years. I worked office jobs in the measurable enthusiasm,
daytime and did acting/jazz vocals at Fannielee adds, “There is
night. I worked hard to make sure my a depth of gratitude you
kids had a roof over their head because can get with service that
my husband was a musician and that makes you feel 200 ft. tall.
did not pay rent! I went back to being As an elder, it is my duty
Fannielee when I came back to San to give back. The more I
Francisco because I decided I wanted unload, the easier it is to
my name back! Margaret then became die – I have paid my world
my middle name.” rent. I have had so
many blessings,
With great love, Fannielee talked about so much love. Yes,
her two daughters. One has a finance I have had trag-
career in New York and her other edies, but I have
daughter has passed away. She as- to give back so I
sisted in raising her two grandchildren can just leap over
after her daughter’s death and is thrilled when my time
to now be a great-grandmother. Her comes.”
grandchildren bring her tremendous joy

All smiles and full of joy, Fann-
ielee Lowe is living her best life!

35

NPC News

Sincere Friendships:
A Timeless Treasure

by Carole Jurenko Jones, Alpha Delta (U of Alabama), 2019-2021 NPC Chairman

It’s true what they taught us as world needs places and spaces to
little girls: friendships are like sil- develop and nurture sincere friend-
ver and gold. ships — that’s why I promote the
I am blessed with abundant friend- sorority experience.
ships, many of which I attribute Sincere friendship is the corner-
to my involvement in the National stone of sorority membership. It’s
Panhellenic Conference and my not a coincidence that for each of
fraternity, Alpha Omicron Pi. My the 26 National Panhellenic Con-
professional career in journalism ference organizations — some
afforded me some dear friends, founded more than 150 years ago
and as most parents do, I picked — it was friendship that compelled
up some great friendships raising the creation of the organization.
my daughter. Additionally, I've held Still today, sincere friendship
on to some incredible friendships remains our collective greatest at-
from childhood. Of all of these, it's traction. The critical need for close,
the sincere friendships that are personal friendship cannot be
most important to me. negated.

Sincere friendships are different I don’t have to tell you the role Al-
from the others — they are varsity- pha Omicron Pi plays in the devel-
level friendships. Without my opment of sincere friendships. We
sincere friends, I’m not sure I could have all experienced it firsthand,
survive. These friends believe in and I know you’re empowered
me so that I can believe in myself. by the strength of unwavering
They care deeply, love hard and support only a sincere friend can
push harder. They are my energy give. I encourage you to take full
boosts for life. My sincere friends advantage of those friendships by
have helped to foster my talents investing a little more and picking
and personality, and made me who up the phone for an overdue hello.
I am. As sorority women, you and I have
In a time when friendships seem to been given a gift — indeed as pre-
be dictated by an online click that cious as silver and gold.
can as easily end with “unfriend-
ing,” sincere friendships are more This is a variation of a message Carole
important than ever. Even with Jones, NPC Chairman, wrote for Pi Beta
increased opportunity to connect Phi’s The Arrow magazine, Winter 2020,
to others, some are lonely. The which was dedicated to exploring and
affirming some of the many sincere friend-
ships in Pi Beta Phi.

36 | Spring 2021

Thank you!

11

AOII Foundation Focus

Thank You

to Our Foundation Volunteers!

The Value of One, The Power of Many is the experience. I always encourage sisters to re-
theme of National Volunteer Week observed search the different opportunities that AOII has
worldwide in April. The observance reflects the to offer and volunteer in the areas that they are
inspiring acts of kindness by millions of indi- most passionate about.
viduals AND the magic that happens when we
work together toward a common purpose. Leslie Wininger, Kappa Omega
(U of Kentucky)
For the AOII Foundation, more than 80 volun- I came to value volunteerism at a
teers make the magic happen with their devot- very young age by watching my
ed service. Some help guide our financial and parents serve in countless volunteer
governance procedures. Some develop com- roles in our community. It feels good
munication and marketing plans. Some evalu- to help advance solutions and move
ate requests for emergency assistance. Others important initiatives forward. AOII has given me
review scholarship applications or direct the so much and it feels good to be able to give
grants process. back in this way.

So, April is the perfect time for us to say thank Lauren Hodge, Chi Phi
you to those sisters who fuel the Foundation (U of South Carolina Aiken)
engine day after day. Truly, they demonstrate Volunteering for the Foundation
the power of many, but there is always a place provides me opportunities to con-
for more. Please review the committee descrip- nect and hear other women’s sto-
tions to see where you can add your magic to ries. I have also enjoyed seeing
our work. We encourage you to find your pas- the impact the Foundation makes
sion like these AOII Foundation volunteers. on the lives of others. I have seen through one
small donation the ripple effect it has on the
Allie Bassett, Theta Omega lives of other AOIIs.
(Northern Arizona U)
I volunteer because it continuously Julie O’Brien, Lambda Tau
teaches me something new about (U of Louisiana at Monroe)
people, about cooperation, about I have a totally selfish reason to vol-
compassion and about myself. Giving unteer - serving others fills me with
back to the organization that helped joy. One of the greatest benefits of
make me the woman I am, is a very fulfilling

38 | Spring 2021

volunteering with the Foundation is the friend- Barbara Dannenberg, Phi Beta
ships I’ve made with the women serving with (East Stroudsburg U)
me. We have wonderfully gifted and talented Volunteering provides the space to
women in our organization, and serving on the work with like-minded and inspiring
Scholarship Committee provides me a chance women. The work we do directly
to learn about amazing members and the things impacts the Fraternity and helps
they have accomplished and are working to- to shape the future of AOII. I feel
ward. connected to how our Fraternity works in a very
real way through our collaborative efforts as a
Jennifer Haun, Sigma Phi committee. The Foundation is the heart of our
(California State U, Northridge) Fraternity and through committee work, I can
One benefit of volunteering is being live our values.
able to connect with sisters from all These sisters offer this bit of advice about vol-
over the U.S. and Canada. What I like unteering... “Do It!”
about my committee work with the
Foundation is I am always learning CLICK HERE TO GET STARTED!
something new and being able to see all the
good work that the Foundation does. Being a
part of such good work is beyond rewarding!

Securing Our Future Are you ready to create your own AOII legacy?
When you include the Alpha Omicron Pi Foun-
Kath. Joyce. Nancee. Rissa. Lillian. dation Second Century Society in your estate
Marilyn. Aileen. Sherrill. plan, you demonstrate your generosity and
These sisters are among those who have made commitment to supporting our AOII sisterhood.
a commitment to Secure our Future through the Your gift will help the AOII Foundation provide
AOII Foundation Second Century Society. Many countless sisters the opportunity to transform
of us struggle to talk about estate planning and lives. Your gift can be as simple as choosing the
deferred giving. It can feel overwhelming and AOII Foundation as a beneficiary of an insur-
complicated. We don’t want to think about our ance policy or IRA, or more elaborate as in a
own mortality or leaving loved ones behind. designation in your written will.
However, planning your legacy is brave and
can be an inspiration to others. This fiscal year If you choose to include Alpha Omicron Pi
(July 2020-June 2021) the AOII Foundation has Foundation in your estate planning, please let
received more than $200,000 in bequest gifts. us know! You will become a member of our
These gifts always seem to come when they Second Century Society and receive a com-
are needed most. We are so grateful to the memorative pin, recognition in publications, and
many women who as members of the Second special invitations. Thank you for Securing the
Century Society have planned for the future of Future of Alpha Omicron Pi.
the AOII Foundation as a part of their legacy.

39

Spring Photos

Spring
Photos

Lambda Epsilon (U of Waterloo)
40 | Spring 2021

Lambda Upsilon (Lehigh U) Lambda Lambda (U of Connecticut)

Delta Beta (U of Louisiana at Lafayette) Gamma Chi (Carleton U)
Phi Sigma (U of Nebraska at Kearney)

41

Spring Photos Beta Tau (U of Toronto)
Zeta (U of Nebraska-Lincoln)

Iota Theta (Monmouth U) Gamma Alpha (George Mason U)
Phi Gamma (Georgia College & State U)

42 | Spring 2021

Lambda Psi (Arizona State U)
43

Feature

NEW OPTIONS TO

COLOR YOUR AOII WORLD
2021 AOII Brand Updates

Almost four years since AOII’s rebrand, 2017 it was determined through work with
it’s time for an update. Not an overhaul Rhyme & Reason Design that in addition to
or tagline change, but some fun additions. AOII’s Cardinal Red, a pink would be add-
We are proud to present the following ed to the primary color palette, a coral and
changes to AOII’s color palettes and pat- two shades of gray to the secondary color
tern collection. palette to bring a bright, fresh, bold new
look to the Fraternity’s brand. Members
OUR COLOR PALETTE embraced this change, and we are excited
to offer an updated primary and secondary
For more than 120, years AOII’s primary color palette. Another fun addition to the
color palette included only Cardinal Red colors themselves are the names associat-
– a color that will never change as the ed with each color, read more about these
Founders determined this for the Fraternity names below.
at the time of our founding. However, in

UPDATED PRIMARY COLOR PALETTE Ambitious Pink

Cardinal Red PMS 191 C
CMYK: C-0 M-88 Y-39 K-0
PMS 200 C
CMYK: C-17 M-100 Y-86 K-6 RGB: R-239 G-67 B-109
HEX: EF436D
RGB: R-194 G-32 B-50
HEX: C22032

Confident Coral Promising Purple

PMS 7416 C PMS 683 C
CMYK: C-3 M-74 Y-70 K-0 CMYK: C-25 M-96 Y-7 K-38

RGB: R-235 G-104 B-81 RGB: R-126 G-51 B-90
HEX: EB6851 HEX: 7E335A

44 | Spring 2021

Updates to the Primary Color Palette UPDATED SECONDARY COLOR PALETTE
Not only has our coral been moved to the
primary palette, but a deep, warm purple Arthritis Blue
has been added as well. In addition to
Cardinal Red, Ambitious Pink speaks to PMS 307 C
the ambitious women of our organization CMYK: C-100 M-20 Y-0 K-25
and all we have accomplished. Confident
Coral helps us to live boldly and confi- RGB: R-0 G-114 B-161
dently bearing in mind those that came HEX: 0072A1
before us, and those that will come after.
Promising Purple represents the creativity Barnard Blue
of our Founders and their desire to create
something for the greater good. It is rec- PMS 2169 C
ommended to use the primary palette first CMYK: C-49 M-14 Y-0 K-0
and foremost. RGB: R-135 G-179 B-209

Updates to the Secondary Color HEX: 87B3D1
Palette
While the coral has been moved to the Graduate Gray
primary palette, two shades of blues have
been added to the secondary to reflect PMS Cool Gray 11 C
AOII’s work promoting arthritis awareness. CMYK: C-63 M-52 Y-44 K-33
The two shades of gray will remain a part
of the secondary palette. The shades of RGB: R-86 G-95 B-95
blue have been added to provide mem- HEX: 565F5F
bers and chapters colors to use for arthritis
related events and promotions, includ- Humble Gray
ing recruitment. Arthritis Blue is a nod to
the international awareness ribbon color PMS Cool Gray 1 C
representing arthritis. Barnard Blue is a CMYK: C-13 M-11 Y-12 K-0
nod to our founding location at Barnard RGB: R-219 G-217 B-214
College. Graduate Gray and Humble Gray
represent the lifelong commitment of AOII HEX: DBD9D6
and our humble beginnings in the Old Co-
lumbia Library.

All primary and secondary colors can be
used at their full opacity (as pictured), or
for a wider range of color options the col-
or’s opacity or tint can be used to soften
the palette providing a much wider array
of design possibilities. Please note that
lowering AOII's primary/secondary logo
or Greek letter mark opacity or tint is
not permitted.

45

Feature

OUR PATTERNS Arthritis Blue, Barnard Blue, and Humble
Gray). Also, two new fun patterns have
AOII has four general patterns used been added to the collection. Less spe-
throughout Fraternity branding materi- cific to AOII’s brand, the first can be set on
als, not including specific patterns for use a white or Humble Gray background and
on Properties, Foundation, and Life Loyal used for celebratory events and promo-
materials. tional items (some might even say it looks
like confetti or sprinkles)! The second op-
Pattern Additions tion gives off a fun, trendy, retro vibe and
In order to add some color to AOII’s pat- incorporates all four primary color palette
tern selections there is now a white Infinity options on a Humble Gray or white back-
Rose hatch pattern offered on five different ground.
colors (Confident Coral, Promising Purple,

PATTERN ADDITIONS

46 | Spring 2021

OUR FONTS Antonio Regular
Antonio Bold
All of AOII's fonts from the 2017 rebrand Proxima Nova Regular
will remain the same, none added or re- Proxima Nova Bold
moved. As a refresher, our three fonts are Proxima Nova Italic
Antonio, Proxima Nova, and Beloved Script
Bold. Beloved Script Bold

Antonio is a free font that can be down- 125TH PRIMARY LOGO
loaded online.

Proxima Nova must be purchased online or
downloaded through Adobe TypeKit. If you
are not able to purchase Proxima Nova the
best free substitute is Arial which can be
used in Word, PowerPoint, email, etc.

Beloved Script Bold is available for pur-
chase online, there is no substitute of-
fered.

AOII’S 125TH LOGO 125TH SECONDARY LOGO

Also, new to AOII’s brand library is the on the Fraternity’s website and through the
quasquicentennial logo! This logo was AOFiles section of Fulfilling the Promise.
created specifically for promotional items We encourage you to review these up-
and events related to Fraternity’s 125th dates with chapter members at your next
anniversary on January 2, 2022. It was meeting!
designed intentionally incorporating AOII's We hope these additions to our brand as-
brand colors, fonts, and imagery, includ- sets will allow chapters and members to
ing the infinity rose that represents so reembrace the vibrancy and boldness of
many facets of our organization. The "2" our brand and continue to promote AOII
of "125" is intertwined with the infinity rose with pride.
providing a bit of dimension which brings
the logo and celebration to life. It is rec-
ommended to use the primary 125 logo
when celebrating the occasion from now
throughout Leadership Institute 2022. The
secondary 125 logo should be used when
space permits the primary from being used
(i.e. when a horizontal mark suits space
better).

BRAND STANDARDS GUIDE UPDATE

All of the information and assets men-
tioned here have been updated in AOII’s
Brand Standards Guide which is available

47

Things We Love: Celebrating Earth Day

Things We Love:

Sustainable/Eco-friendly Products & Companies

AOII is committed to leaving this world better than we found it, which includes en-
couraging our members to practice sustainability and make eco-friendly choices
wherever they can. For this issue, we wanted to provide our members with a collec-
tion of both ethical and sustainable companies. We also recognize that due to the ex-
tra care and processes that are necessary to create a sustainable brand, the pricing
of some of these items may be higher than we are used to paying for fast fashion or
unethically sourced materials. We hope you enjoy these brands as much as we do!

The Girlfriend Collective
Meet your new go-to gym wear! The Girlfriend Collective com-
bines high-end designs with eco-friendly materials to provide
luxuriously comfortable athleisure and workout wear. With sus-
tainability at the forefront of their core values, from packaging to
leggings, all of their products are made from recycled materials
and are recyclable. Their goal is to create a community of people
who care about where their clothes come from as much as how
they look. If you’re looking for flashy designs, The Girlfriend Col-
lective isn’t for you. This is for the back-to-the-basics gal who
loves neutral tones and monochromatic looks. If this sounds like
a match made in heaven to you, you can learn more about their
products here and shop their new arrivals here.

Summersalt
Summer is coming, which means it is officially swimsuit season!
Enter: Summersalt, the self-proclaimed “unicorn of swimsuits.”
Not only does Summersalt have earth-friendly practices like us-
ing recycled materials to create fabrics and product packaging,
but they also boast honest pricing with no middleman and a da-
ta-backed fit that has taken over 1.5 million body measurements
from 10,000 women. So, not only is it great for the earth and
affordable, but it is also is made for all bodytypes. Committing
themselves to a sustainable model, they craft fabrics from post-
consumer materials and nylon waste that is literally pulled from
our oceans. While swimsuits are their MO, they also offer a vari-
ety of products from sleepwear to sweaters. P.S. We recommend
checking out this on-brand one-piece that is AOII-approved!

Imperfect Foods
If you’re an empath who feels bad for that oddly-shaped avo-
cado you saw at the supermarket that you know nobody else will
buy, this one is for you! Imperfect Foods started with a mission to
“Eliminate food waste and build a better food system for every-
one,” and that is exactly what they have done. They have rei-
magined grocery delivery for a less-wasteful world by delivering
fresh-from-the-farm products right to your door. This subscription
service allows you to choose exactly what is being delivered to
you. If you’re looking for a good place to start on your journey
to a sustainable lifestyle, Imperfect Foods is a cost-friendly and
convenient option!

Pela Case
Everyone loves a cute phone case, but did you know that you
could get a compostable one? Based in British Columbia, Cana-
da, Pela Case’s sole mission is to stop 1 billion pounds of plastic
from ever being made. The business model is based on four C’s:
Community, Creativity, Consciousness and Courage. Pela Case
believes in transparency and posts their carbon footprint and
waste-reduction plans on their website for accountability. They
also offer a wide variety of smartwatch bands, AirPod cases and
other accessories. So next time you go to order that $65 case for
your brand-new iPhone, consider grabbing one of these ador-
able Pela Cases instead – the planet will thank you for it!
MakeUp Eraser
Stop spending all your money on makeup wipes and be kinder to
your skin with the MakeUp Eraser! The MakeUp Eraser (MUE) is a
powerful cloth that effortlessly removes makeup with just water.
The brand’s founder had a passion for sustainability, and wanted
to use that to create a chemical and oil-free way for women to
remove their makeup. Thus – the MUE was born. While its key
purpose has remained the same, it has evolved over the years,
and is now dermatologist approved, and comes in a variety of
colors! The company is cruelty-free, vegan, and each MUE lasts
3-5 years/1,000 machine washes. Breakup with your oily makeup
wipes and get yourself a MakeUp Eraser now!

ABLE
Not only does this women’s clothing company have a low car-
bon footprint and sustainable business model, but they employ
and empower women as a solution to end poverty. ABLE prides
itself on putting people before profits and is based in AOII’s “HQ
home” state of Tennessee. ABLE has manufacturing partners
in Ethiopia, Mexico, Brazil and India, and all of their jewelry is
made in Nashville, TN. They work with vendors that use recycled
packaging, organic materials and other eco-friendly practices. If
you love the earth and empowering women, check out some of
ABLE’s best sellers here.
49

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