Summer 2012 - To Dragma

To Dragmaof Alpha Omicron Pi
Vol. 76 No. 3 Summer 2012



Caution caution cau

At a May meeting, members of the Reno-Tahoe Alumnae Chapter
assembled a festive gift basket for a Panhellenic fund-raising event.

To DragmaofAlphaOmicronPi

26 7 Viewpoint
28 8 AOII Leadership Institute 2012
18 Ask Me “Why AOII?”
36 20 Installation - Beta Upsilon Chapter
22 Installation - Omega Sigma Chapter
40 24 Installation - Theta Iota Chapter
26 A New Breed of Woman
28 Crossing the Line: My Story of Stalking
32 Taking a Stand Against Bullying
34 PR in a Box Service Projects
35 From the Archives
36 Meet the 2012-2013 ELCs
40 Academics: Aiming High for Pi
44 Things We Love
46 Showing Off: Creative Photo Displays
49 Collegiate News
58 AOII Foundation News
62 Life Loyal AOIIs

Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012 To Dragma • 3

To DragmaofAlphaOmicronPi From the Editor

To Dragma is the official magazine of Alpha Omicron Pi As the Fraternity gears up for a new school year, there is a flurry of
Fraternity, and has been published since 1905. The mission activity going on at AOII Headquarters. Membership Information
of To Dragma of Alpha Omicron Pi is: to inform, educate and Forms (MIFs) on Potential New Members are literally pouring in
inspire our readers on subjects relevant to our Fraternity, our through our new online submission process. Collegiate recruitment
chapters, our members, or Greek life; to encourage lifetime events are already underway, new sisters are being pledged and our
AOII involvement; to salute excellence; and to serve as a newly-trained ELCs are on the road visiting chapters. AOII’s Chapter
permanent record of our Fraternity’s history. Services Department is busy!

How to Contact To Dragma: With four chapter installations this fall and three more in the spring,
To Dragma, 5390 Virginia Way, Brentwood, TN 37027 the people, resources and plans to make those events phenomenal are
(615) 370-0920, fax: (615) 371-9736, www.alphaomicronpi.org, in full swing. AOII’s Extension Department is busy! Chapter housing
[email protected] renovation projects are moving at full steam and Extension’s success
has added the excitement of property being purchased, floor plans
How to Update Your Name or Address: approved and contracts negotiated for new chapter houses. AOII
Go to Update Info tab on the AOII website Properties is busy!
(www.alphaomicronpi.org), email your new address to
[email protected], or call (615) 370-0920. Leadership Institute 2012 seems like just yesterday, but plans are
already being developed for Convention 2013 in Chicago, as well as
How to Subscribe to To Dragma: for Leadership Academy 2013. Online trainings, webinars and new
Subscriptions are $25.00 annually and can be paid by check educational programs are also in various stages of release throughout the
or credit card. Checks, made payable to AOII, should be following school year. AOII’s Events and Training Department is busy!
mailed to 5390 Virginia Way, Brentwood, TN 37027,
Attn: Accounting. Credit card subscribers (Visa, Master Card The Fraternity fiscal year just ended, a new database and online
or Discover only) should email [email protected]. reporting process is being developed, AOII’s archival records are being
digitized, new Alumnae Chapters are forming, the AOII Foundation is
How to Join Life Loyal AOII: securing our future, our social media sites are exploding with news, and
Visit the AOII website (www.alphaomicronpi.org), or contact To Dragma is going to press! AOII Headquarters is busy!
[email protected].
How to Join an AOII Alumnae Chapter: The truth is, AOII Headquarters is always busy, but the busyness going
Visit the AOII website for contact information on an alumnae on right now seems especially exciting - and contagious. I hope you
chapter near you. catch our fever and find a way to get involved at the international, local
or even personal level with the Fraternity or a sister. It is a great time to
Director of To Dragma and Archives be an AOII!
Mariellen Perkinson Sasseen, Alpha Delta (U of Alabama)
I am happy to share that AOII received three awards at the 2012
Creative Director Fraternity Communication Association (FCA) Awards Banquet in
Whitney Frazier, Rho Omicron (Middle TN State U) Atlanta, Georgia last May. A third place award went to To Dragma in the
prestigious Fred F. Yoder category for overall excellence in a fraternity
Women Enriched through Lifelong Friendship. magazine. We are sincerely honored to be considered as one of the best
magazines in the Greek world. To Dragma also picked up a third place
Alpha Omicron Pi was founded at Barnard College in award for Greek Life Article for “The Greek Response,” Summer
New York City, January 2, 1897, by Jessie Wallace Hughan, 2011, written by Past International President and NPC Delegate Carole
Helen St. Clair Mullan, Stella George Stern Perry & Jurenko Jones. Lastly, AOII’s beautiful New Member Educational
Elizabeth Heywood Wyman. Manual, “The Promise,” received 3rd place honors in the category for
Promotional Materials - Educational.
International President
Allison Allgier, Epsilon Omega (Eastern Kentucky U) In closing, I would like to recognize two exceptional young women for
their hard work assisting To Dragma and the AOII archives this summer
Executive Director as interns - Sarah Jordan Priest, Omicron (U of Tennessee) and Olivia
Troylyn LeForge, Beta Phi (Indiana U) Manning, Beta Gamma (Michigan State U). Their contributions to this
issue and to the advancement of the preservation of our archives have
Alpha Omicron Pi is a member of the National Panhellenic been amazing.
Conference and the Fraternity Communications Association.

4 • To Dragma Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012

FraternityNews

AOII Colonizes Four Chapters this Fall

The excitement is at a high pitch as we recolonize one chapter and colonize three new chapters during the fall semester of 2012.
Alumnae support in each local area 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.

Texas Christian University Sonoma State University

AOII’s rst colonization this fall will occur at Texas AOII will colonize at Sonoma State U in
Christian U between September 13- 16. TCU has a Rohnert Park, California between October 5-7.
student body of more than 7,800 and is located in This public, liberal arts institution enrolls approximately 7,500
Fort Worth, Texas. AOII will become the twelfth undergraduate students and is known as a model for sustainability
NPC chapter on campus joining Alpha Chi Omega, in building, teaching, and planning. The ve NPC organizations
Alpha Delta Pi, Chi Omega, Delta Delta Delta, Delta currently on campus include Alpha Delta Pi, Alpha Gamma Delta,
Gamma, Gamma Phi Beta, Kappa Alpha Theta, Kappa Kappa Gamma, Alpha Xi Delta, Gamma Phi Beta and Phi Sigma Sigma. AOII is
thrilled to become the sixth member of their Panhellenic community.
Pi Beta Phi, Sigma Kappa and Zeta Tau Alpha.

Purdue University University of Arkansas - Fort Smith Sa t Da S!

AOII is pleased to have the opportunity to AOII’s fourth colonization of the Fall 2012
recolonize our Phi Upsilon Chapter at semester will take place between October
Purdue U in West Lafayette, Indiana. 11-13 at the U of Arkansas - Fort Smith.
Originally chartered on April 20, 1963, recolonization The university has more than 7,700 students.
activities will take place from September 20- 23. Purdue In 2007 Delta Gamma and Gamma Phi Beta
U is a public land grant institution, which enrolls over 31,000 were the rst two women’s fraternities to join the UA Fort Smith
undergraduate students. AOII will become the 17th NPC sorority on campus, and AOII will become the third.
this large Panhellenic campus and will be joining Alpha Chi Omega,
Alpha Gamma Delta, Alpha Phi, Alpha Xi Delta, Chi Omega, Delta Leadership Academy 2013
Delta Delta, Delta Gamma, Delta Zeta, Gamma Phi Beta, Kappa Alpha
Theta, Kappa Kappa Gamma, Phi Mu, Pi Beta Phi, Sigma Delta Tau, February 1st -3rd: Franklin, Tennessee
Sigma Kappa and Zeta Tau Alpha.
Chapter Presidents, Vice Presidents of Membership
New Alumnae Chapter Installation Recruitment and Recruitment Advisers are all invited
to attend this three day leadership training.
The AOII Executive Board is pleased to announce the
installation of the Greater Sacramento Valley Alumnae International Convention 2013
Chapter on August 12, 2012. Vice President Rebecca
Herman served as the installing o cer. June 26th- 30th: Chicago, Illinois
Join AOII in the celebration of the biennium
Congratulatory notes can be sent to Alumnae President at the Chicago Marriott Magnificent Mile!
Karessa Silvers, 5948 Walnut Avenue, Orangevale, CA 95662-4832,
[email protected]. AOII Centennial Anniversaries

Spring 2013 Colonizations Congratulations to each of these chapters on 100 years
of sisterhood, excellence and life-long commitment to
Looking ahead, the Fraternity has three colonizations slated Alpha Omicron Pi!
for the Spring 2013 semester: the recolonization of our
Upsilon Chapter at the U of Washington (originally chartered Chicago North Shore Alumnae
on September 18, 1950) and colonization of new chapters
at Monmouth U in West Long Branch, NJ and Northern Installed on October 26, 1912.
Kentucky U in Highland Heights, KY. If you would like to
assist with one of these colonization e orts, contact Kara Mantooth, Tau (U of Minnesota)
[email protected].
Installed on October 29, 1912.

Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012 To Dragma • 5

The caption from the Summer 1952 To Dragma reads, Members of Beta Kappa (U of British
“Four of Six Southwestern Cheerleaders are AOIIs: Columbia) prepare for their 2011 “Strike Out
Marzette Smith, Mary Rodriguez, Elizabeth Carter, and Arthritis!” event last fall.
stooping Lisa Rollow, shown here preparing for the Saba
banquet at the AOII house honoring the basketball team.”
Southwestern at Memphis is now Rhodes College, home
of AOII’s Kappa Omicron Chapter.

Viewpoint

At the time of writing this article, I am sitting on my balcony on an island during our family vacation in

celebration of my parents’ 50th wedding anniversary. With two newly-engaged nephews and their fiancés,
there have been many fun wedding conversations from years past and plans for those yet to come.
This brings to mind Executive Director Troy LeForge’s wedding analogy as it relates to AOII. With her
permission, here is an overview. Recruitment is much like dating. In recruitment, we invest our best
resources, put on our best outfits and show our best personality in order to present AOII in a way that lets

our light shine brightest. My parents’ initially met on a blind
date set-up by friends. My dad says sometimes you just have to
have blind faith in your decision. In AOII, we must have blind
faith and complete trust that our sisters are making the right
decisions to include well-chosen members as part of AOII.
In our current Strategic Plan, membership growth is a large area of
focus. Recent results have been outstanding! With a strong focus
on our collegiate chapters achieving quota, 97 percent exceeded
that expectation. So far this biennium, the new member portion
of our growth has been 11 percent. Another area supporting
growth is our expansive extension efforts. AOII has grown
through recolonization of one chapter and colonization of three
others this past year. The most exciting news is that this coming
year will bring significant opportunity to engage even more new
members through extension.
The new member period represents courtship and engagement
where we invest significant time and energy to build and
strengthen this relationship. My parents were engaged less than
six weeks after their blind date (similar timing of our current new
member structure) and knew that they would be committed to
one another for the rest of their lives.
Then comes initiation which is representative of the wedding. Anticipation builds as extensive plans are
made for the celebration and promises are made for a lifetime of friendship, love, and loyalty. The key to a
successful longterm relationship starts now. Is as much time and energy given from this point forward to
grow and mature the relationship? In AOII, do we give as much to our sophomores, juniors, seniors, new
graduates, and beyond as we do during those initial few months? Retention is another area supporting
growth as our members are finding significant value in their AOII membership and prioritizing it to remain
committed. Our retention numbers have improved 2 percent so far this biennium.
Providing an exceptional member experience and member engagement are key points to the Strategic
Plan. For our collegians, the Educational Leadership Consultants make a significant impact. In this issue,
you can learn more about the women traveling for AOII this year. In addition to our wonderful staff, AOII
is a volunteer-driven organization. Thousands of women are necessary to fill volunteer roles as Alumnae
Advisory Committee members for our collegiate chapters, Alumnae Chapter officers, Network volunteers,
Standing Committee members, or board members. It takes each one of us to do our part to love AOII and
make it the best it can be.
For my parents, like our 50-year members, it has taken a lot of attention, love, and compromise to keep
the relationship strong. What does a lifetime commitment to AOII mean to you and how can you show it
through service to the outstanding organization you joined 5,10, 25, 50+ years ago? Your contribution will
define your experience. I hope it is exceptional!

Allison Allgier To Dragma • 7
International President

Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012

LeaIdnestristuhtiep

More than 700 AOIIs recently traveled to middle Tennessee expecting a fun and
energizing weekend of sisterhood, and that is exactly what they received. Leadership
Institute 2012 was an exceptional event, inspired by the theme, “Ask Me Why… AOII!”
Attendees experienced sisterhood at its finest while learning, laughing and building
relationships with sisters. Once again this year, the conference was hosted at the
Franklin Marriott Cool Springs during the weekend of June 22-24. The weekend was
filled with a whirlwind of meaningful opportunities for learning more about AOII, as well
as professional and personal development.

Friday, June 22, 2012 on dating, college life and leadership, David is
a master storyteller and engaging speaker. In
While Fraternity leaders arrived early to fact, David was invited back to speak due to the
participate in various meetings on Thursday and overwhelmingly positive reviews he received
Friday, the weekend festivities officially began at following his presentation during LI 2010 - and
5:00 on Friday evening with a welcome from the he did not disappoint. Covering his topic, “Why
Education Committee followed by an opening Be Ordinary When You Can Be Remarkable?”,
dinner for hungry travelers. After dinner, AOII’s Mr. Coleman encouraged attendees to expand
International President, Allison Allgier, made her their relationship potential on both a personal
first appearance at the podium to warmly welcome and professional level. His universal message
everyone to LI 2012. contained the perfect amount of laughter and
inspiration to begin a weekend exploring the
question, “Ask Me Why… AOII!”

All attention soon turned to our opening Friday evening continued with fun network
Power Session speaker, David Coleman, 13- celebrations where guests gathered for
time National Speaker of the Year and the 2011 introductions and a little fun, followed by a series
Entertainer of the Year. Author of Making of breakout sessions called “AOII in 900 seconds.”
Relationships Matter, and numerous other works

8 • To Dragma Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012

During these quick-paced 15-minute forums, A series of outstanding Learning Paths occurred
guests had a chance to learn more about and ask throughout the day and included topics certain
questions in various Fraternity operational areas. to appeal to every person in attendance. During
The official programming drew to a close with an the first learning path, sessions were conducted on
exercise class led by Vice President of Finance (and time management, alumnae chapter development,
AOII fitness guru) Krista Whipple. decorating on a budget, AOII Ritual, healthy
lifestyles, Fraternity hot topics, and new AOII
Saturday, June 23, 2012 technology led by Groopt.com. After being
thoroughly informed from among those
Saturday morning activities began with a Power intriguing topics, the second set of Learning Paths
Session featuring another dynamic speaker, Stacy featured sessions on recruitment, alumnae chapter
Nadeau. In the summer of 2005, Stacy was one best practices, alcohol risk management, body
of six women who made news all across the US image, Fraternity education, building adviser
for appearing on a Times Square billboard dressed relationships and a repeat of the technology session
only in their underwear. While other nearby led by Groopt.com. The third and final Learning
billboards featured actresses and
Path opportunities included
sessions on women in
philanthropy, year-by-year
programming, the perils of
hazing and bullying, risk
management and second
chances to attend three of
the previously mentioned
sessions.

Wedged nicely
between the wealth of
professional and
personal educational
development taking
place on Saturday,
everyone enjoyed a

supermodels, this Dove brand billboard promoted seated lunch and
“real women with real curves” and the reaction some exciting
was overwhelmingly positive. Dove’s mission was announcements.
“to make more women feel beautiful every day by Allison Allgier and
widening the stereotypical theme of beauty and by Cindy Visot,
inspiring women to take great care of themselves.” AOII Foundation
Stacy quickly emerged as a spokeswoman for President, presented
healthy body image and has appeared on the hundreds of adorable
Today Show, CNN, Ellen, Dr. Phil, Tyra and panda bears to David Popen,
Oprah- twice. Her heartfelt words of advice to the Southeast Region
those in attendance were inspirational.

Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012 To Dragma • 9

Director of the Arthritis Foundation. AOII has Following lunch and the
had a long-standing tradition of collecting pandas conclusion of all the Learning
before and during conferences to donate to the Paths, the traditional Forever
Arthritis Foundation for use at camps for families Friends reception was held on the
with children with arthritis. Stuffed animals are hotel’s beautiful patio for donors and recipients.
regularly used to explain treatment methods and Forever Friends provides a thoughtful and
to ease fears of juvenile arthritis patients as seen meaningful way to honor an AOII sister and the
in photos featured from this summer’s Juvenile reception is an intimate way to show appreciation
Arthritis Conference on page 59. to those who are present.

The first several awards to be presented during the The highlight of Saturday evening’s dinner
weekend were handed out after lunch. Everyone was the presentation of the Foundation and
loves recognition and the excitement and emotions Fraternity Awards that had not already been
shared with these winners was certainly a fitting handed out. The Foundation was up first with the
way to get it all started. Congratulations to announcements of their scholarship winners, and
everyone for their accomplishments! The final Educational and Arthritis Grants. The Foundation
portion of time allocated during lunch was for also announced SOA! and SHEAF award winners
an informative opportunity to hear a biennial Per Capita and Total Giving. The Fraternity
halftime report directly from the AOII Executive presented awards in numerous operational areas
Board highlighting the past year and learn to to deserving collegiate and alumnae chapters,
make sure Team AOII exceeds expectations in the and to outstanding individuals for service and
coming year. It’s been an exciting year of growth leadership. From beginning to end, excitement
and advancement for the Fraternity and the next was in the air in celebration of the winners and the
year of the biennium is poised to be even greater. progress all chapters made while striving to exceed
expectations to qualify for the awards process.

The night was still young as the jubilation moved
from dinner into “AOII After-Hours” time that
was deemed a blast by all. Blackjack tables were
brimming with newbie players and seasoned
veterans, energetic dancers kicked-up their heels
in the main ballroom, photo booths were packed

10 • To Dragma Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012

with giggling sisters, and Education and Training
games of Twister were engaging Committee, Kathy Sowell,
participants and spectators to scenes Sandy, Stewart, Jessica Bertsch
of hilariously contorted bodies. A great time and Jen Edwards, along with
of sisterhood was had by all as these fun events exceptional planning by
continued late into the evening. International Headquarters
Staff members, Leadership
Sunday, June 24, 2012 Institute 2012 came to an
official end as guests embarked
Sunday morning arrived bright and early with better prepared to share with
a hearty breakfast and the final Power Session, others their WHY AOII
“Ask Me Why… AOII.” This session was story and eager for
facilitated by a panel of five consisting of Kathy everyone to ask!
Sowell, Peg Crawford, Tracy Maxwell, Anne
Jones and Hannah Grantz. Coming to the table
with a variety of backgrounds, they presented the
basics of their own personal “who, what, when,
where and hows” before summing up their own
“whys” to neatly tie all the weekend’s educational
opportunities together in an insightful manner.

International President Allison Allgier closed
the weekend activities with inspiring words to
carry us forward. With a tremendous amount
of appreciation to the dedicated members of the

Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012 To Dragma • 11

Individual Award Winners

Muriel T. McKinney Award is given to a

Chapter Adviser for outstanding guidance and
length of service to a collegiate chapter.

Shauna Cavins, Chi Lambda (U of Evansville)

Stella Perry Award is presented to the one

collegiate Chapter President selected as most
outstanding for the past year.

Hannah Grantz, Sigma (U of California Berkeley)

Adele K. Hinton Award to recognize an alumna

member who has set an outstanding personal example for
others in the Fraternity.

Celia Austin Reed, Alpha Kappa (U of North Alabama)

12 • To Dragma Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012

Mary Louise Roller Award recognizes one

collegiate member for outstanding service and leadership
to her Panhellenic, campus and/or community.

Kerrie Grunnet, Lambda Sigma (U of Georgia)

Helen St. Clair Mullan Award is given

to an alumna member who has continually served
AOII over the years, displaying loyal, faithful and
devoted commitment to the Fraternity.

Virginia (Sis) Budd, Lambda Sigma (U of Georgia)

Elizabeth Heywood Wyman Award is given to an AOII

alumna member who has achieved outstanding success or acclaim

in the arts, in her profession, or in service to humanity.

Alumnae Women of Leadership Awards recognize Genevieve (Genny) May, Kappa Tau (Southeastern Louisiana U)

outstanding alumnae for volunteer and/or leadership involvement

to their community, profession or AOII.

Cindy Visot, Kappa Tau / Tampa Bay Alumnae Chapter Collegiate Women of Leadership Awards honor
Joelle McWilliams, Kappa Tau / Hammond Area Alumnae Chapter
Kathy Jensen, Theta Omega / Houston Area Alumnae Chapter collegiate women for outstanding leadership or volunteer
Mariann Kocsis, Kappa Pi / Reno-Tahoe Alumnae Chapter
service to their chapter and community.

Amanda Rivault, Kappa Tau (Southeastern Louisiana U)
Taylor Lambert, Lambda Epsilon (U of Waterloo)
Brooke Borders, Delta Omega (Murray State U)

Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012 To Dragma • 13

Collegiate Chapter Award Winners

Excellence in Alumnae Relations Kappa Alpha

Excellence in Campus/Community Involvement Chi Lambda

Excellence in Communications Delta Omega

Excellence in Finance Nu Omicron

Excellence in Membership Recruitment - Large Zeta

Excellence in Membership Recruitment - Medium Rho Omicron

Excellence in Membership Recruitment - Small Kappa Tau

Excellence in Member Retention - Large Delta Delta

Excellence in Member Retention - Medium Lambda Upsilon

Excellence in Member Retention - Small Kappa Tau

Excellence in New Member Education - Large Omega

Excellence in New Member Education - Small Delta Omega

Excellence in Operations Kappa Kappa

Excellence in Philanthropy Kappa Tau

Excellence in Risk Management Phi Sigma

Excellence in Rituals Gamma Theta

Excellence in Sisterhood Epsilon Chi

Outstanding AAC Delta Omega

Outstanding LC Omicron

Philos Award for Excellence in Panhellenic - Large Omega

Philos Award for Excellence in Panhellenic - Medium Alpha Chi

Philos Award for Excellence in Panhellenic - Small Alpha Phi

McCausland Cup for Excellence in Academics Lambda Sigma

14 • To Dragma Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012

Alumnae Chapter Award Winners

Excellence in Collegiate Relations Hammond Area
Excellence in Communications Chicago West Suburban
Excellence in Community Involvement Chicago West Suburban
Excellence in Membership Recruitment Boston
Excellence in Operations Hammond Area
Excellence in Sisterhood NY/NJ Metro
Philos Award for Excellence in Alumnae Panhellenic Chicago West Suburban

Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012 To Dragma • 15

Collegiate Chapter Standards of
Excellence Achievements

Ruby Level Delta Omega Kappa Alpha Lambda Sigma
Epsilon Alpha Kappa Kappa Lambda Upsilon
Alpha Chi Epsilon Chi Kappa Tau Omega
Alpha Delta Epsilon Omega Lambda Chi Omicron
Alpha Phi Gamma Omicron Lambda Epsilon Sigma Omicron
Chi Psi Gamma Theta Lambda Omicron Tau Omicron
Delta Delta Zeta Pi
Delta Epsilon

16 • To Dragma Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012

Pearl Level Delta Sigma Kappa Rho Pi Alpha Theta Pi
Gamma Lambda Beta Pi Theta
Alpha Nu Gamma Chi Mu Lambda Rho Omicron Zeta
Beta Phi Gamma Sigma Nu Omicron Sigma Beta Zeta Psi
Beta Zeta Kappa Chi Phi Lambda Sigma Gamma
Chi Lambda Kappa Phi Phi Sigma Tau Delta
Delta Kappa
Delta Pi

Gold Level Lambda Eta Theta Omega
Lambda Tau Xi Omicron
Alpha Gamma Nu Beta
Chi Phi Tau
Delta Lambda
Delta Tau Tau Omega
Epsilon Sigma Theta Chi
Gamma Delta

Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012 To Dragma • 17

memberprofile

Ask Me “Why AOII?”

Ashley McDonald, Delta Psi (State U of New York)

Over three years ago I made a bold decision to pledge a sorority family. Of course there are perks to growing up without siblings
and chose Alpha Omicron Pi. At the time I knew nothing about (like being spoiled by my amazing parents), but I have also
sororities and sorority life, or how the following years as a sister longed for an older sister to look up to as my role model, to give
in AOII would affect my life. My roommate at the time, and my me advice from personal life experience, and even to share her
sister today, encouraged me to go through recruitment with her closet with me! If not an older sister, I would have welcomed a
as it had always been a dream of hers to be in a sorority - but it younger sister to admire and look up to me. I now have a big
was never my dream. I had the typical stereotype expectation of and little sister, and a handful of other sisters to share their closets
what a sorority was; a group of unintelligent, drama-filled girls with me and so much more. Due to my lifelong pledge to Alpha
who “buy their friends,” and spend too much time at fraternity Omicron Pi, my best friends are now my sisters, and I have a
parties. Sororities and “sorority girls” are too often portrayed unique and constant bond with women all over the world.
incorrectly this way in the media, in movies, and on other
social websites. The scope of this sisterhood hit me two summers ago when
I was shopping with my mother at a local mall and wearing
As a sister and current president of the Delta Psi Chapter of letters, over 200 miles away from my chapter. I was stopped by
Alpha Omicron Pi, I can say I have truly exceeded my own an unfamiliar elderly woman who enthusiastically said, “Wow,
expectations, which would not have been possible without you are an AOII? So am I!” For the rest of the day I walked
AOII in my life. When the going gets rough, I know I always around the mall with a beaming smile on my face so surprised
have my sisters to fall back on. Athough they may not be my that in my hometown, so far away from my chapter, I had met
blood sisters, they will be my sisters for life, because AOII is for a new sister and still felt an instant connection. The chance to
life. I have experienced many special moments as a member of attend Leadership Academy and Leadership Institute opened
Alpha Omicron Pi, but my personal favorite was receiving a big my eyes to how big Alpha Omicron Pi is and made my love
and little sister. As an only child, I have always cherished my so much stronger. AOII is more than the collegiate experience
friendships because I consider those closest to me my sisters, my at one’s college, but a network of loving sisters of every shape,
color and age. I cannot describe the feeling of meeting a new
sister who I knew nothing about, but feeling like I had known
her forever. The connection is instant at “hello” because we
already have so much in common through AOII.

When I sit back and think about all that Alpha Omicron Pi has
given me, I wonder where my life would be had I not pledged
or if I had chosen a different sorority. AOII has given me the
opportunity to travel to many different states, including our
headquarters in Tennessee, not once but twice! I have met the
beautiful faces of AOIIs all over the country (literally!) and
alumnae who have been AOIIs for over fifty years, including
Past International President Peg Crawford who has been an
AOII for over 67 years! She was a great inspiration at LI by
lighting up when talking about AOII - proving her love and
dedication is still strong after so many years.

I have held multiple positions within my chapter and currently
serve as Chapter President. I always knew it would be a great
honor and proud accomplishment to serve as CP of my sorority,
but didn’t expect to ever hold that office myself. I was too scared

18 • To Dragma Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012

and worried I wouldn’t do as good a job as past presidents. I know everything about them. We are all strong, beautiful and
received encouragement from my financial advisor Heidi Butler outgoing women with fun, loud, and sometimes obnoxious
and the Network 1 team, as well a past chapter president, Laura personalities, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Trudeau. She passed the torch to me and encouraged me to “let
my light shine.” I am grateful for the light For those who think Greek life is
and leadership skills she saw in me, which about buying friends and partying,
has brought me to where I am today. I they have clearly not looked beyond
am also grateful for the Diamond Jubilee the stereotypes. Without my sisters I
Scholarship I received through the AOII would not be the person I am today.
Foundation. It is great to know that all of They have helped me grow and
my hard work is appreciated and that AOII mature through a fun but stressful
is giving back to help members, like me, and difficult four years at college. In
make our education more affordable. addition, AOII and my sisters have
accepted me for who I am - flaws
I do not know where I would be without and all - and allowed me to build a
AOII and my sisters in my life. As a stronger and more confident self. My
graduating senior unsure of what my college experience would not have
future holds, I know AOII will be the been the same without my sisters
constant “thing” in my life - similar to and involvement in AOII. I hope to
our unchanged Ritual since 1897. During continue my involvement by joining
Leadership Institute, over 700 AOII’s an alumnae chapter or becoming a
were challenged to ask ourselves, “Why chapter advisor in the near future.
AOII?” After sitting down to think, it
is hard to put into words why I chose Why AOII? Everyone has an AOII
AOII and what AOII means to me. It is story. Something about us makes
a special, indescribable feeing that only us so special and everyone should
another AOII woman would truly know share their story with someone
what I am talking about and how it feels. else! No two AOII stories are the
I can honestly say my sisters are some of same, so when someone asks, “Why
the most intelligent, strong and beautiful AOII?” never be afraid to share your
women I have ever met. Each sister has a story. The bonds of sisterhood that
different story, life experience, or obstacle have been built in my chapter are
that they have encountered and overcome. unbreakable and will last a lifetime.
My chapter is comprised of a diverse group and although We always say AOII is our “home away from home” but I have
we are one of the smaller AOII chapters, our sisterhood is realized Alpha Omicron Pi and my sisters will always be home
strong. I have a personal relationship with every sister and for me, and always have a huge place in my heart.

Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012 To Dragma • 19

Beta Upsilon Chapter - Bryant University

Alpha Omicron Pi welcomed the 191st chartered chapter Members of the Delta Chapter at Tufts U attended and
this past spring. The Beta Upsilon Chapter of Alpha assisted within the weekend’s installation festivities as
Omicron Pi at Bryant U was installed on April 14, 2012. sponsors for the new initiates, while other area alumnae
Allison Allgier, AOII International President, served as the and collegians sent their support through congratulatory
installing officer. letters and gifts.

Thirty-six were initiated into AOII membership. The “This experience has been so incredible. Being a part of
chapter chose the phrase, “Live in Love,” as their sub- the founding class for a chapter has allowed us to really see
motto, a name that typifies the chapter’s unique character what Alpha Omicron Pi stands for and what it means to us.
indefinitely. The Beta Upsilon initiation and installation As the founding members of this chapter, we also had the
activities concluded with the formal Rose Banquet for the unique chance to create our submotto and chapter name.
new initiates and their families at the Grand Hall in the Both of these components are unique to our chapter and
Bello Center on the campus of Bryant U. being able to contribute to a part of AOII history has been
amazing,” said Michelle Scali, a charter member of the Beta
The formal Rose Banquet was attended by leaders in Upsilon Chapter.
the university community, including: Judy Kawamoto,
Assistant Dean of Student Life; Nicole Hamilton, The charter members of the Beta Upsilon Chapter of
Program Advisor; and Matt Kreimier, Program Advisor. Alpha Omicron Pi are: Amanda Beck, Amanda DeSimone,
Representatives of other Greek organizations and various Amanda Eardley, Ani Mikitarian, Ashley D’Innocenzo,
family and friends of the new members also attended the Breanna Weaver, Dana Siska, Elizabeth Cournoyer,
celebratory event. Other special guests included Allison Elizabeth Sousa, Emma MacDougall, Hillary Dolloff,
Allgier, AOII International President; Koren Phillips, AOII Jaclyn Gambardella, Jaclyn Hertling, Jen Capazzi, Jillian
Foundation Board Director; Amber Countis, Network Bonafede, Katherine McMahon, Katie Phung, Kelly
Director; Kathleen Donohue, AOII Network Specialist Donlon, Kelly McFarlin, Kelsey McClure, Kimberly Elloian,
of Development; Amy Simonini, Beta Upsilon Chapter Kristen Carroll, Lauren Colbath, Lauren Wilson, Leah
Advisor; Molly Fenton, Assistant Director of Extension Norberg, Maria Tsekeris, Mariah Lang, Megan Doerr,
and Colonization; Meghan Granito, Assistant Director of Meghan Crowley, Michelle Lindsay, Michelle Scali, Nicole
Chapter Services; and Nicole Claudon, AOII Educational Schwab, Nicollette Riccio, Rosangela Altamirano, Victoria
Leadership Consultant. Frazier, and Zoe Gertner.

20 • To Dragma Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012

Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012 To Dragma • 21

O eg i m apte - O ah tat U

Alpha Omicron Pi is pleased to announce the installation of and installation activities concluded with the formal Rose
our 192nd chartered chapter. The Omega Sigma Chapter Banquet for the new initiates and their families at the Wes
of Alpha Omicron Pi at Oklahoma State U was installed Watkins Center on the OSU campus.
on April 22, 2012. Allison Allgier, AOII International
President, served as the installing o cer. The formal Rose Banquet was attended by leaders within
university environment, including: Dr. Lee Bird, Vice
One-hundred and one (101) were initiated into AOII President of Student A airs; Ival Gregory, Manager of
membership, including ve alumnae initiates. The Fraternity and Sorority A airs; Liz Osborne, Coordinator
chapter chose the phrase, “Beautifully Strong, Faithfully of Fraternity and Sorority A airs; and Melisa Ecols,
Courageous,” as their sub-motto, a name that typi es the Senior Unit Assistant. Representatives of other Greek
chapter’s unique character inde nitely. Saturday’s initiation organizations and various family and friends of the new

22 • To Dragma Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012

members also attended the celebratory event. Other AOII joins a thriving Greek community on the Oklahoma
special guests included Allison Allgier, AOII International State U campus and was welcomed by fellow Greek leaders
President; Amy Jo Gabel, AOII Network Specialist of and campus administrators during the entire colonization
Development; Rene Fitzgerald, Network Specialist of and installation process. “While AOII’s arrival on our
Alumnae; Kaya Miller, Director of Advancement; Molly campus was the rst new Panhellenic chapter on our
Fenton, Assistant Director of Extension and Colonization; campus in over 30 years, we have seen an absolutely
Whitney Frazier, Creative Director; and Tracy Ottey, AOII amazing assimilation into our community from both
Educational Leadership Consultant. sides at Oklahoma State. The commitment to build a
comparable chapter house is an immense commitment
Additionally, members of the Xi Chapter at the U of to the success of both AOII’s OSU chapter and our
Oklahoma, the Chi Theta Chapter at Northeastern State U Panhellenic community as a whole,” said Ival Gregory,
and the Xi Omicron Chapter at the U of Arkansas attended Manager of Fraternity & Sorority A airs at Oklahoma
and assisted with the weekend’s festivities as sponsors for the State U.
new initiates, while other area alumnae and collegians sent
their support through congratulatory letters and gifts.

The charter members of Alpha Omicron Pi are: Lindsey Adams, Clancy Anderson, Alyssa Baker, Haley Bertie, Bri Boneta, Ashleigh
Boone, Jessica Brandt, Jessica Branstetter, Brittany Bridgwater, Caitlynn Briscoe, Britney Bryan, Kateri Burris, Jessica Canaday,
Ashley Chase, Maria Coffaro, Kayla Coffey, Taylor Cook, Zoe Cooper, Shannon Cotton, Eileen Croes, Katelyn Cumston, Whitney
Davis, Shelby Dawson, Tracie Dickerson, Emily Dyer, Alexis Elliott, Alyssa Elliott, Stephanie Fowkes, Shelby Gandy, Halle Garlick,
Shelby Gentry, Audra George, Drue Gindler, Lainee Gonzalez, Ashley Goodenough, Jessica Gribble, Alycia Griffin, Nitasha Grissom,
Kaitlyn Hankins, Emily Henderson, Kaitlyn Henry, Kathryn Hook, Summer Hopkins, Caroline Horn, Amber Howell, Cecily Jamison,
Anna Jensen, Hannah Kadavy, Meagan Kascsak, Kayla Kirk, Susan Lester, Courtney Loveless, Kaleigh Mahaney, Cassandra Martinez,
Kendra May, Greta Meisner, Katie Mena, Chelsey Miller, Brianne Mitchell, Samantha Morgan, April Murphy, Katie Neal, Kathryn
Nelson, Jestique Newberry, Megan O’Kane, Gabriella Ortega, Sydney Penrod, Bobbie Pickard, Sarah Polakow, Lauren Poulson,
Ashley Prines, Cierra Ramon, Paris Robinson, Lindsey Savelsbergh, Samantha Schilthuis, Angela Schnell, Julie Schnell, Piper Schwartz,
Sydney Sever, Morgan Sharpton, Jordan Singleton, Amanda Smith, Michelle Stevens, Corinne Stevenson, Steffanie Stoll, Jamee
Sturdevant, Hannah Tatom, Maddisyn Thompson, Cara Tully, Leigh Turner, Rachel Urban, Kimberly Ventura, Alex Way, Ariel West,
Carrie West, Caitlin Wilkins, Elizabeth Williams, Amanda Wolfinger, Kirstein Womack, Lauren Woodyard, Paige Worley, Jenica Yim,
and Kara Young. The alumnae initiates are: Caitie Abrahamson, Jennifer Chessmore, Fran Gragg, Lena Kavaliaus and Abby Minch.

Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012 To Dragma • 23

Theta Iota Chapter - California State U, San Marcos

Alpha Omicron Pi is pleased to announce the The installation of the Theta Iota Chapter was a
installation of our 193rd chartered chapter, Theta family affair for our neighboring California AOIIs.
Iota at California State U, San Marcos. The chapter Members of the Sigma Phi Chapter at California State
was installed on May 5, 2012. Allison Allgier, AOII U, Northridge and the Lambda Alpha Chapter at of
International President, served as the installing officer. of LaVerne attended and assisted with the weekend’s
festivities as sponsors for the new initiates, while other
Sixty-three women were initiated into AOII area alumnae and collegians sent their support through
membership. The chapter will continue to be congratulatory letters and gifts.
represented by the phrase, “Love Sisterhood, Treasure
Individuality” as their sub-motto, a name that typifies The establishment of the Theta Iota Chapter at
the chapter’s unique character indefinitely. Saturday’s California State U, San Marcos joins six other AOII
initiation and installation activities concluded with the collegiate chapters in the state of California. The
formal Rose Banquet for the new initiates and their university dynamic, coupled with an inviting student
families at the San Marcos Conference Center at the experience-centered culture have made the campus
Lake San Marcos Resort and Country Club. community a perfect fit for Alpha Omicron Pi. As
stated by Nicki Croly, Coordinator of Fraternity
The formal Rose Banquet was attended by university and Sorority Life at California State University, San
leaders including: Julie Mattingly, Assistant Director Marcos, “…Alpha Omicron Pi’s commitment to
of Campus Life; and Nicki Croiy, Coordinator of fraternal relations and community has been clearly
Fraternity and Sorority Life. Representatives of other evident; a value that was of the upmost importance
Greek organizations and various family and friends to us as we looked to grow. At the end of their first
of the new members also attended the celebratory semester on campus, they received their charter and
event. Other special guests included Allison Allgier, had a member elected to the second highest position
AOII International President; Rebecca Herman, AOII on our Greek Leadership Council."
Executive Board Vice President; Linda Grandolfo,
AOII Foundation Director; Marilyn Herman, Past
Executive Board Vice President; Leslie Michaels,
Theta Iota Chapter Advisor; Kara Mantooth, Director
of Extension and Public Relations; Molly Fenton,
Assistant Director of Extension and Colonization;
Andrea Theobald, Assistant Director of Chapter
Services; and Liz Pelletier, AOII Educational
Leadership Consultant.

24 • To Dragma Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012

The charter members of the Theta Iota Chapter of Alpha Omicron Pi are: Linda Abed, Janel Adams, Jenneca Bacon,
Stephanie Barnes, Kristin Beard, Michele Brady, Mariah Butor, Danielle Canez, Kathryn Crane, Haley Duvel, Erica Elerding,
Katherine Foos, Sayuri Fujita, Hazel Garcia, Lillian Greenheck, Allison Gunzelman, Samantha Jones, Jillian Kantouth,
Emily Koon, Mayra Lemus, Erin Lindberg, Kristina Macejak, Veronica Macias, Gabrielle Mager, Candice Marquez,
Lora Martin, Victoria McDowell, Caitlin McNulty, Melissa Michaelson, Amanda Nealand, Natalie Neece, Charlene Nguyen,
Jamie Norgaard, Rachael Nosewicz, Kirstee Novak, Amayranis Ochoa, Kasey Palmer, Alejandra Pena, Colleen Pergis,
Huliana Poyrazoglu, Natalia Quraishi, Lisette Ramirez, Dominica Ranieri, Jessica Robbins, Justine Ronas, Sarah Rupe,
Berlin Jill Siador, Stephanie Simoneau, Marley Small, Danae Sowell, Taylor Spengler, Victoria Steele, Caitlyn Thibodeau,
Sydney Toledo, Nancy Valencia, Lindsay Van Cleave, Lizbet Vera, Jennifer Villegas, Lindsey Ward, Thanh Waynick,
Crimson Williams, Shelby Winkelman, Juliane Wright, and Ashlynn Wright.

Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012 To Dragma • 25

A New Breed of Woman:

the avid female sports fan

by Jori McMurtrey, Lambda Sigma (U of Georgia)

Watch out boys-- there’s a new type of girl infiltrating
your local sports pubs and athletic venues, and she
wants to be taken seriously.

26 • To Dragma Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012

In casual conversation she mentions the impressive slightest trace of nepotism. Frankly, league and team
stats of Washington Nationals rookie sensation Bryce o ces, corporate sponsorship departments, marketing
Harper and then shows o her newest purchase agencies, and broadcast and cable networks need the
from the designer sample sale at the mall. She drinks diversity of thought that women can bring to the
Budweiser while painting her toenails. She watches table. The sports industry has already begun to reap
SportsCenter before the newest weekly episode of the bene ts of its female contributors.
The Bachelorette. She embraces the sorority girl
stereotype and proudly wears her campus intramural So ladies, consider this your call to action. As female
fans, we comprise 30-45 percent of major American
ag football champions t-shirt to class. She’s me. sport fan bases--the leagues need us! Whether you’re
a casual or avid fan, don that team jersey with pride.
That’s right. I’m a girl and I love sports. Long gone are Show those men in your life you don’t root for Tom
the decades when women were expected to sit quietly Brady just because of his Adonis-like good looks
in their perfectly pressed dresses while keeping their but that he has earned your fandom by virtue of his
opinions to themselves. As a result of the evolution merits on the eld. Put those dreams of becoming
of this mid-20th century paradigm, women have the next bombshell broadcaster into action. Sign up
garnered equality in virtually all facets of life, not for that sports business class and start your journey to
just athletics. I take pride in the fact that I can bake become the CFO for the New York Knicks. Subscribe
a three tiered white chocolate birthday cake while to Sports Illustrated and ESPN The Magazine
verbally maligning the Falcons coaching sta for poor with pride—if anything, your boyfriend should be
game clock management in the nal minutes of a impressed. And prove to both yourself and society
very important contest against our division rivals. I that you are a renaissance woman. You’re brains and
can join the conversation among male coworkers in beauty. You’re athletic yet graceful. You’re passionate
the break room because I watched LeBron drop 60
points against the Magic the night before. I can build yet disciplined. Be proud to be you!
relationships with new friends, clients, and perfect
strangers because I understand and appreciate the
passion they have for their local teams and heroes.
Besides this passion being a fundamental part of my
soul, I see the relatibility that a working knowledge
of the sports world brings me in both my personal
and professional life, and many other women are
embracing this dichotomy, too.

The reality is that women today have an incredible Pictured (left to right) Jori McMurtrey, Candice Cartiaux and
opportunity to slowly turn what was known only a Kristen Ramsey, all Lambda Sigma sisters from the U of Georgia.
couple of decades ago as a “good ol’ boys’ club” of
sports business into a very gender-balanced industry. Jori McMurtrey currently works in the sports
Women are climbing the ranks to executive level and entertainment industry in Atlanta, GA. She
status while wearing the hats of mother, wife, and has experience at the league, team franchise,
community leader, among others. Kim Williams, and collegiate levels. She received a B.B.A. in
COO of the NFL Network, Rosalyn Durant, Vice Finance at the University of Georgia.
President of ESPNU and ESPNHS, and Sharon Byers,
Vice President of Sports and Entertainment for The
Coca-Cola Company are just a few women who have
achieved noteworthy professional success without the

Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012 To Dragma • 27

Crossing
the Line

28 • To Dragma Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012

My Story of Stalking

by Meghan Granito, Tau Gamma (Eastern Washington U)

My Story At first, I did not think much of the situation. Our
paths crossed on a regular basis, especially since we
I joined AOII a week into my freshman year. My are both members of Greek organizations, and to be
roommate, a friend from junior high school, had honest, I was flattered by the phone calls, texts and
pledged AOII the semester before and fell in love Facebook messages. As most college-aged women
with all the organization had to offer. I vowed that I would feel, it was nice to be getting attention from a
would make my own decisions during recruitment, person who seemed to genuinely care about me.
and ultimately ended up falling in love with AOII,
too. Within the first few weeks following Bid Day, I cannot remember the exact moment I realized the
I met some of the most amazing people: AOII line was being crossed. While I constantly tried to
sisters, NPC sisters, and Fraternity men. Over the reaffirm that we were never going to be more than
course of the next year, in addition to bonding friends, it never seemed enough for Justin. The text
with my AOII sisters, I found a group of friends in messages continued, despite my request for them to
the men of a specific fraternity, and was looking cease, and the situation was growing worse. Mutual
forward to making more great memories during my friends started sharing that I was all Justin spoke
sophomore year. about, and that he was always concerned about
where I was and whom I was dating. We even
Sophomore year arrived, and I was more than found out that he was impersonating his Fraternity
excited to return to campus and rekindle those brothers on the internet to find out more - if I had
friendships from freshman year. After recruitment any lingering feelings for him, or what my plans
was over, we had a celebration at a friend’s home. were each day.
There, I had met Justin*, a member of the fraternity.
Little did I know, that introduction would change As the attention grew more intense, I contacted the
the course of my collegiate years. police to notify them of the situation. While there
was nothing they could do in that moment, it was
Throughout that year, Justin and I became good calming to share my story, and have it on record -
friends. We were in the same social circle, and just in case. I cut off all communication with Justin
enjoyed the same types of activities. Inevitably, and blocked his number from my phone, and his
feelings evolved, and there were times where I profile on Facebook.
looked at Justin and saw him as someone I might
date. For reasons I don’t recall seven years later, the After going to the police, the attempted contact
timing was never right. We played the tug-of-war magically disappeared for awhile. I had not heard
game, and went back and forth with having feelings from Justin for over a year and our social circles
and not. By the end of my sophomore year, I knew were growing further apart. In no time, it was the
it just was not meant to be between us, and that was spring of my senior year. I was graduating in less
okay - for me. than three months, and about to embark on the
next journey of my life.
I am not able to say the same about Justin. After
a late-night chat about moving on with different On a cold spring day, I started receiving a series
people, I felt at peace. I felt confident with our of text messages from a fellow Greek telling me
decision, and was looking forward to the future. For that Justin had just been assaulted, and I needed to
Justin, I became an obsession, and over the next two rush over as soon as possible. I was immediately
years, I also became a victim of stalking.

Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012 To Dragma • 29

suspicious because the phone number was not the THE FIVE Ws OF STALKING
one I had assigned to this person in my contact list.
My mind automatically recalled earlier occasions WHAT is stalking? According to the Bureau of Justice, stalking is
when Justin was impersonating someone else to try defined as “a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would
to gain my attention. I called the police officer who cause a reasonable person to feel fear.”
recorded my story eighteen months earlier, and he
investigated the situation. After visiting Justin, he WHO is stalked? Annually, over 3.4 million people are stalked, and in
filed an official report of the assault, but less than an their lifetime, 1 in 20 women will be a victim of stalking at least once.
hour later, Justin was arrested for filing the report For a collegiate chapter of 100 women, there are likely FIVE sisters
falsely. He had not been assaulted, and eventually who have been or will be a victim of stalking.
admitted to staging the event to contact me.
WHO is the stalker? Typically, the stalker is someone of a similar age
To be honest, everything after that was a blur. In of the victim. In terms of gender, 67% of female victims reported that
the three weeks following, I filed for a restraining their stalker was a male. In 90% of reported instances, the victim has
order that stated if Justin tried to contact me within known their stalker. And 3 in 4 of that 90% are “either a current or
the next two years, he would be arrested. I never former spouse or partner, roommate, co-worker, family member, or
heard from Justin, and I am fairly confident I never social acquaintance.”
will again.
WHERE & WHEN does the stalking happen? With the popularity
Very few people are aware that this even happened of the internet, stalking can happen anywhere, and at anytime: school,
to me during my college years, but I share my work, home, Twitter, Facebook, etc. Stalking is also unpredictable,
story today in hopes that other sisters will feel so behaviors can slow down or diminish for a period of time, only to
comfortable and confident addressing similar resurface later.
situations in their lives. I consider myself lucky
because I was never physically injured. Twenty- WHY do people stalk? Every situation is different, so it is hard to
one percent of stalking victims do not share define a broad reason why individuals stalk others.
the same luck, and are attacked or physically
threatened. As women, it is important for us to
understand not only the definition of stalking, but
when and how to address serious situations.

*Name has been changed to protect his identity.

January is Stalking Awareness Month

If your collegiate or alumnae chapter is interested in
supporting Stalking Awareness Month, please visit http://
www.stalkingawarenessmonth.org/ for more information.

YOU MIGHT BE BEING STALKED IF...

• You feel as if you are being followed.
• You are receiving unwanted phone calls and/or internet/text messages.
• You fear for your safety.
• Your reputation is publicly insulted or compromised.
• You feel that you are being manipulated.

30 • To Dragma Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012

THE NEXT STEPS Be aware of your surroundings. Stalker behaviors
can happen anywhere and at anytime. It is important to
Tell someone. Confide in a sister, a family member, or know where you are going, and even more important
even the police. In my situation, I went to my parents to be aware of what is going on around you. Also, do
and the police the moment I felt unsafe. To be honest, not be afraid to change travel routes as long as you feel
reading this article will be the first time that most of my comfortable with this route before taking it.
chapter sisters will even learn that this happened during
my collegiate years. Document and Save. Whether this is a copy of a
restraining order, or the very first e-mail the stalker
File a report. The local police department was sent, it is important to keep all documents and note
monumental in my story. Without their help and sightings, hang-up calls, inappropriate gifts, etc.
support, I would have lived in constant fear. The officer Because stalking behavior can disappear and return at
was able to listen to my story, help develop next steps, any time, a victim should always be prepared.
and was a phone call/walk away when additional
situations arose. Source:
Baum, K., Catalano, S., Rand, M. (January 2009).
Cut off all contact with your stalker. As mentioned Bureau of Justice Statistics: Stalking Victimization in the
above, ninety percent of victims are familiar with their United States. U.S. Department of Justice. July 2012. From
stalker. Because of this, the victim can sometimes feel http://www.ovw.usdoj.gov/docs/stalking-victimization.pdf.
bad for the stalker and leave the situation unreported
until something serious occurs. It is important to cut off
ALL communication: no texts, Facebook messages or
even 140-character tweets.

Alpha Omicron Pi was Here are some ways we can The Buddy System. Yes, something
founded on friendship. help our sisters ensure their we learned in kindergarten can be a huge
We are a group of safety at all times: help in college and life. While the buddy
women that love, system is not always possible 24/7, it is
support and cherish one Education in Chapters. Invite a important to be there for your sisters,
another. Because of this former victim or a health care professional whenever needed, even if that is just
continued devotion, it to chapter meeting to discuss stalking. walking them to class or driving them
is important that we are In addition, have open and honest home from a party.
always looking out for conversations discussing how the
one another. chapter will handle potential situations Speak Up. If you notice someone
that involve a sister being stalked. It is potentially stalking a sister, or feel that a
important to be mindful that there may sister is being too open on social media
be women in the room who have been and/or in public places, do not be afraid
victims of stalking. Please remind chapter to speak up. Remember that these
sisters that this is a very serious topic, and situations can be extremely emotional,
can carry significant emotional distress. so be calm and appropriate in your
approach. These conversations should also
be safe and confidential.

Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012 To Dragma • 31

Taking a Stand tools to combat the issue and to nd people to advocate for them.
against Bullying Some are unable to nd the
support they need and, unfortunately, feel
A Worldwide Epidemic that their only escape is to end their own lives.

Each day there is another disturbing story in the news of children, Thankfully, anti-bullying organizations are popping up
teens and adults falling victim to some form of bullying. This everywhere to combat the cruelty that is taking place in schools,
epidemic can take many di erent shapes and usually stems from workplaces, and social media sites. From “It Gets Better” to
the bully trying to assert his or her power over the intended victim. Challenge Day, students are being asked to step out of their
It can also stem from the bully’s intent to be harmful to another comfort zones and into the shoes of someone else. One of
person, or the bully’s attempt to gain power within their friend the strongest forms of ghting bullying is tolerance education.
circle by targeting the same person who has been attacked by their Learning to empathize with another shows would-be bullies
peer group. what the long-term e ects their actions might have
upon someone.
What makes bullying so much worse now than in the past when
kids came home with black eyes and split lips? Those targeted 26% of females have
by today’s bullies have no escape from the torment. While some
may be confronted physically at school, the attacks continue in admitted to being victims
their homes due to the constant connections shared through in physical fights
social media and cell phones. Now, there are considered to
be four types of bullying - verbal, social, physical and cyber - Source: BullyingStatistics.org
though a single act of bullying could be characterized by more
than one of these terms. Verbal bullying is generally name Council Voted and AOII Acted!
calling, mocking and verbal harassment of the victim. Social
bullying is used to alienate a person by intentionally severing During Convention 2011, Council voted to accept Resolution
their friendships, excluding them from conversations or plans, 1. This resolution states that the Fraternity will investigate the
or by spreading rumors. Cyber bullying is a form of harassment opportunity for AOII to be part of a coalition of organizations
that uses digital technology such as cell phones and the internet addressing the issue of bullying in the school system and the
to augment verbal or social bullying. All of these are just as establishment of a hands-on community service initiative for
damaging to a young person as physical bullying, the form most collegiate and alumnae chapters related to addressing the issue
commonly depicted in TV and lm as kids are stu ed into a of bullying among teen girls. Finally, AOII will encourage all
locker, thrown in a dumpster, or come home with a black eye. members to commit to ending these heinous acts by mentoring
young girls during these formative years.
Physically, mentally and emotionally drained by the torture of
bullies, many of those a ected are taking drastic measures to end In August of 2011, an Anti-Bullying Task Force was created
the chaos that bullying has caused within their lives. Unable to to ful ll the resolution accepted by Council. The task force
escape the taunts from school at home, victims are reaching out
to a host of non-pro t organizations to provide comfort, to gain

32 • To Dragma Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012

determined that its purpose and mission were to: it was determined that this organization would be the best t
for AOII’s partnership to ful ll the expectations voted on by
• Find a service project that allows collegians and alumnae to work Council through Resolution 1. AOII will continue working
with young women in their community to encourage self-esteem with this project to enhance their programming through further
and empowerment that combats bullying. development of resources, by further developing the layer that
includes alumnae partnership and by promoting the speaker
• Partner with programs that have already been created. Research on certi cations program for alumnae making them eligible to speak
these programs will determine the extent of AOII’s involvement. in schools or serve as mediators. In this capacity, AOII is excited
to work with the Every|Day Hero Campaign to enhance the
• Ensure that AOII has the opportunity to enhance the programs with project for all organizations that will partner together to end the
which we will partner. bullying epidemic.

Next, the task force decided on criteria for partnership. Being a Hero
Whichever organization AOII would choose to partner with to
raise awareness and train our members on combating bullying How and why should you be
must either encompass or be willing to work with AOII to create involved with the Every|Day Hero Campaign?
the following criteria: The Every|Day Hero Campaign is a movement to stop
bystander behavior. It is centered on the Every|Day Hero
• The means to meet the collegiate women where they are. The Pledge and encourages participants to learn how to educate
organization has the tools and ability to work with collegiate and empower themselves to be a hero when they are needed
women and understand their abilities in their stage of life. in those critical moments of time. Certain situations require
taking a risk and going beyond the barriers that normally stop
• A role that alumnae women play in supporting the program. action. This is what it takes to be a hero.
The organization should be able to offer programming that is
targeted toward an alumna woman that would enable her to You can take the pledge today by logging in to http://www.
support the project alone or alongside a collegiate chapter. raproject.org/aopi or texting ROSES to 90975 for a link to
the mobile log in. Once you log in, spread the word! Share
• An understanding of the value of sorority partnership. The the message of the Every|Day Hero Campaign with your
organization can appreciate the talent, energy, values and passion friends by sending the link, starting your own campaign or
that sorority women can contribute. posting it to your social media network. On the raproject.org
website, there are many free resources available to educate
• Education materials that define bullying and its consequences. yourself and your community.

• Programming our members can learn from and utilize in 35% of kids have
other capacities.
been threatened online
• A connection with education for middle and high schools. To
provide services in this sensitive topic area, AOII would need to Source: BullyingStatistics.org
partner with an organization that would have its own credibility
and be endorsed by local schools and that would work in
conjunction with faculty and staff.

• An accreditation or certification program for our members to
present the program materials.

Finding the Right Partner

As the task force began to look at possible partnerships, AOII
was approached by the Response Ability Project to support their
Every|Day Hero campaign. Several other Greek organizations
have partnered with this program already, and several high
schools have adopted this program as service projects within
the schools. At rst glance, Every|Day Hero encompassed most
of the criteria the task force had determined. Through further
research and discussion with Mike Dilbeck, founder of the
Response Ability Project and the Every|Day Hero Campaign,

Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012 To Dragma • 33

PR in a Box

AOII’s four PR in a Box projects contain everything a collegiate or alumnae chapter needs to plan and promote a
service event centered around an important cause. From event guides to eye-catching promotional materials,
the four kits include all the public relations materials you need packaged to publicize your events. Look for these
online materials in the Resource section of the AOII website under the Officer Resource Library.

Pand a
Projec t

The Panda Project The Green Expectation AOII Goes Blue Sisters for Soldiers
In 1985, AOII began collecting This four-part PR in a Box program AOII’s International Day of Service This unique twist to the standard
pandas at international events to will provide history and education PR in a Box project organizes the care package is aimed at
be donated to worthy causes in to invigorate a collegiate or efforts of our entire membership showing AOII’s appreciation to
the host city. The Panda Project alumnae chapters’ appreciation of into a united day of service. Our our armed forces. Alpha Omicron
takes this tradition a step further our planet. The Green Expectation International Day of Service Pi Fraternity launched the “Sisters
by crafting a panda collecting is a year-long service initiative full is themed “AOII Goes Blue” in for Soldiers” PR in a Box event in
event to benefit the American of different ideas and effective PR honor of the traditional color November 2011 in partnership
Juvenile Arthritis Organization’s tools. Monthly PR promotional of the Arthritis Foundation and with Soldiers’ Angels. Plan and
Teddy Bear Pain Clinics. The events help to spread awareness. suggests numerous ways to trade promote a meaningful event to
pandas offer both educational AOII red for Arthritis Foundation support our troops. .
and emotional support to blue for just one day. Chapters
children suffering from juvenile are encouraged to “march forth”
arthritis. Host and promote a on March 4th to support our
successful panda collecting event International Day of Service.
at your chapter.

AOII Founder Elizabeth Heywood Fromthe Archives
Wyman authored numerous plays,
short stories and books. Several of
her published works were highly
regarded by the industry, including
these two charming one-act plays
published by Penn Publishing and
Samuel French Publisher.

AOII is also fortunate to have in the
archives many of Bess’s original
typewritten and edited short stories
and longer manuscripts.

Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012 These works are part of thousands of AOII
archival documents currently being digitized at
AOII Headquarters. The goal for this expansive
project is to make appropriate materials from the
archives viewable by our members and general
public through the AOII website.

Look for more information on accessing these
materials online in the coming months.

To Dragma • 35

Meet the 2012-2013
Educational Leadership
Consultants
by AOII Interns Olivia Manning, Beta Gamma (Michigan State U)
and Sarah Jordan Priest, Omicron (U of Tennessee)

The Educational Leadership Consultants serve as ambassadors, liaisons and educators to our
collegiate chapters and members. Under the guidance of AOII Chapter Services and Fraternity
volunteers, these ladies will travel across the United States and Canada to provide one-on-one
operational support. Meet the nine outstanding college graduates who have begun their travels
to become the face of AOII to our collegiate members across North America.

36 • To Dragma

Sarah Blank Meredith Dunn Arianna Fota

Alpha Gamma (Washington State U) Tau Omicron (U of Tennessee at Martin) Delta Sigma, (San José State U)
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV Hometown: Medina, TN
Hometown: San José, CA
Sarah is a recent graduate from Meredith graduated from U of Tennessee
Washington State U with a degree in at Martin with a degree in Public Relations Arianna graduated from San José State
Sports Management. She served Alpha and a minor in Leadership. She is looking U with a degree in Hospitality, Event,
Gamma as Alumnae Relations Chairman, forward to meeting her sisters and sharing and Tourism Management. She held
and Vice President of Education and her love for AOII & our Ritual. Meredith several positions in her chapter and on
further served Panhellenic as Vice President has held the positions of Vice President of Panhellenic council including Property
of Programming & Development, and Standards and Chapter President during her Manager and Panhellenic Vice President of
Panhellenic President. She loves that AOII collegiate years. Programming. Arianna became an ELC to
has become a second home and family to make a di erence in AOII chapters, hoping
her. Sarah is looking forward to sharing her What would you name the to inspire and help women reach their
passion for AOII with her sisters across the autobiography of your life? full potential.
US and Canada. “Put Your Boots On” - for my slight
obsession with cowboy boots and my no- What do you want to have
If you could switch lives with any TV nonsense approach to things. accomplished by your 70th birthday?
character for a day who would you I want to have traveled the world, taken a
choose and why? What is one thing you would like lot of pictures, owned multiple homes
Phoebe from “Friends.” She’s lovable, quirky, to be remembered for? and properties, and still be living, laughing,
and a free-spirit. She’s also one of the I would like to be remembered as being an and loving.
funniest characters on TV! easy - going, fun loving person who was
passionate about life! What’s the best compliment you’ve
What would you name the ever received?
autobiography of your life? What’s your favorite place to My best friend, Mercedes, called me her
Sarah Blank: My Journey To Be The Person go shopping? motivator. It was great to hear that from
My Dog Thinks I Am I think I have a small addiction to Amazon. someone who is my peer, best friend and
com. Where else can I browse through tons AOII sister.
What’s your favorite way to spend of products and get some great deals?
a rainy day? What’s your favorite midnight snack?
Taking a walk or curling up on the couch I am quite obsessed with Taco Bell.
with movies, hot chocolate and popcorn! Fourth meal, yum!

Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012 To Dragma • 37

Meet the 2012-2013 Educational Leadership Consultants

Danielle Jenkins Nevena Pehar Kimberly Sons

Epsilon Alpha (Pennsylvania State U) Gamma Theta (U of South Florida) Beta Phi (Indiana U)
Hometown: Lewistown, PA Hometown: Tampa, FL Hometown: Indianapolis, IN

Danielle appreciates AOII for helping her Nevena graduated with degrees in Music Kimberly is excited to share her love of all
find purpose and guidance in her life Performance, International Studies and things AOII with collegians and alumnae
through Ritual, and she is looking forward Psychology with a minor in Leadership across the US and Canada. She graduated
to showing collegians how important Studies from U of South Florida. She has from Indiana U with a degree in Chemistry.
AOII can be. She recently graduated from held many positions within her chapter A former Keeper of the Ritual in her
Pennsylvania State U with a degree in including Chapter President, Vice President collegiate chapter, Kimberly loves the
History. Danielle served her chapter as of Education, Assistant Recruitment Chair opportunities for growth provided by AOII.
Vice President of Membership Recruitment and Historian. Nevena is hoping to share
and is looking forward to sharing her love her love and knowledge of AOII with What is your ‘instant fix’ for a bad day?
of Ritual. other chapters. Singing ‘NSYNC way too loudly with
my friends.
What is your dream job? What is your ‘instant fix’ for a bad day?
Realistic? Greek Life Director at a university. Interpretive dancing. What is your dream job?
Unrealistic? Miss America. College basketball sideline reporter
What do you want to have for ESPN.
What toy most reminds you of accomplished by your 70th birthday?
your childhood? Traveled to every continent and still be in What’s your favorite way to spend
My karaoke machine - countless hours on contact with the friends I made there. a rainy day?
the microphone - my poor family. Playing in the rain!
What’s your favorite place to
What’s your favorite midnight snack? go shopping?
Powdered donuts or Sweet Chili Wings and My grandma’s closet & Urban Outfitters
Cheese Fries from Wings Over! sale rack.

38 • To Dragma Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012

Hillary Stewart Mallory Stratton Mary Kate Sweeney

Sigma Gamma (Appalachian State U) Gamma (U of Maine) Omega Chapter (Miami U)
Hometown: Raleigh, NC Hometown: Brewer, ME Hometown: Rocky River, OH

Hillary was a charter member of Sigma Mallory’s favorite part of AOII is the unique Mary Kate’s desire is to help AOII live up to the
Gamma at Appalachian State U, and network of sisterhood that AOII offers. She high expectations of friendship, service and
recently graduated with a degree in graduated with a degree in Elementary overall AOII experience set by our Founders.
Advertising. She has held many roles Education from the U of Maine. Mallory She graduated from Miami U with a degree in
within her chapter including Chapter has held many positions in her chapter Organizational Communication and Business
Treasurer, Recruitment Day Chairman and including Chapter Treasurer, Vice President Management. She served Omega as Chapter
Chapter President. Hillary is looking forward of Administration and Chapter President. President and Assistant Vice President of
to meeting sisters from all walks of life. She became an ELC to continue her AOII Membership Recruitment. Mary Kate is hoping
involvement beyond her collegiate years. to inspire collegians, alumnae and advisers to
If you could switch lives with any TV cherish what AOII means to them.
character for a day who would you If you could switch lives with any TV
choose and why? character for a day who would you What would you name the autobiography
Rachel Green from “Friends.” She has an choose and why? of your life?
amazing group of friends and always has a I would choose Robin from “How I Met Sisterhood of the Traveling Ginger.
great job doing something in fashion! I’m Your Mother.” There’s never a dull moment
sure just one day in her shoes would in her life! What toy most reminds you of your
be extraordinary. childhood?
If you could have a super power, what Beanie Babies! Erin the Irish bear was a
What toy most reminds you of would it be? personal favorite!
your childhood? As cliche’ as it is, I would love to be able to fly.
Definitely the Tamagotchi. I remember Driving is frustrating and takes too long. What’s your favorite way to spend a
hiding it in my desk while I was in school so rainy day?
I could feed it. I didn’t want it to die while I What’s your favorite midnight snack? Rainy days are a great excuse to be productive!
was at school! My absolute favorite is the popcorn you Get some work done, clean my room, cross
make over the stove. No butter, extra salt. I some things off my to-do list...then curl up on
What’s your favorite way to spend swear it is better than the kind they serve at the couch and watch my favorite movie of all
a rainy day? movie theaters! time, “Big Daddy.”
Hanging out with sisters, watching movies
and eating junk food.

Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012 To Dragma • 39

Academic Excellence

Aiming High for Pi

by Jordan McCarter, Delta (Tufts U), Director of Chapter Services and Membership Experience

In years past, students anxiously waited for a Whether a chapter has 300 members or 30,
mailman to deliver the results of their semester’s each Vice President of Academic Development
academic effort. Today, students anxiously wait should take seriously the responsibility to the
to log on to their school’s website when they chapter and the Fraternity to help reflect that
know their grades will be posted. Whether you value we hold dear. Additionally, every AOII
are an AOII who remembers receiving that collegian can play an integral role not only
envelope in the mail or one who refreshes your in her own academic achievement, but in
internet browser, we all hold dear the pursuit supporting sisters to do their best.
of academic excellence. For the Fraternity, our
four founders set forth an academic expectation Here, we look to those chapters who have
in AOII’s object when they declared that we exceeded that expectation. As we eagerly
should stand at all times for scholarship. anticipate spring 2012 information, the data
provided is primarily from fall 2011 academic
reports. However, with exciting academic news
making its way to Headquarters every day,
we’re also able to provide insights from some
of those chapters who academically excelled
during the spring 2012 semester.

40 • To Dragma Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012

Striving for Pi

For our alumnae readers, we hope these stories AOII chapters at 3.14 or
will inspire you and remind you of that promise above for fall 2011
we made to commit ourselves to scholarship.
Perhaps this will inspire you to engage with a Alpha Chi Western Kentucky U
local collegiate chapter for mentorship or even Alpha Delta U of Alabama
support during exam week. For our collegiate Alpha Gamma Washington State U
readers, perhaps the suggestions will re-energize Alpha Nu Ramapo College
you in the coming school year. We hope that, Alpha Psi Bowling Green State U
if you don’t see your chapter listed, you will Alpha Theta Coe College
do your part to ful ll the academic promise Beta Phi Indiana U
of AOII while, more importantly, bettering Chi Epsilon The Ohio State U
yourself. Each AOII member and all of our Chi Lambda U of Evansville
chapters are important in shining light for the Delta Tufts U
Fraternity’s scholastic success. Delta Delta Auburn U
Delta Kappa Washington U
Top 10 Chapters in GPA- Fall 2011 Delta Omega Murray State U
Delta Pi U of Central Missouri
Theta Pi Wagner College 3.65 Delta Rho DePaul U
Delta Kappa Washington U 3.58 Delta Theta Texas Woman’s U
Nu Omicron Vanderbilt U 3.55 Epsilon Alpha Pennsylvania State U
Beta Phi Indiana U 3.48 Epsilon Chi Elon U
Lambda Sigma U of Georgia 3.48 Epsilon Omega Eastern Kentucky U
Zeta U of Nebraska Lincoln 3.47 Epsilon Sigma Quincy U
Pi Delta U of Maryland 3.46 Gamma Omicron U of Florida
Delta Tufts U 3.44 Iota U of Illinois
Sigma U of California Berkeley 3.44 Iota Chi U of Western Ontario
Lambda Chi LaGrange College 3.41 Kappa Alpha Indiana State U
Kappa Kappa Ball State U
Spring 2012 Highlights Kappa Tau Southeastern Louisiana U
Lambda Alpha U of LaVerne
One of our newest chapters, Beta Upsilon at Bryant U scored Lambda Chi LaGrange College
the highest GPA on campus for all the Greek organizations Lambda Epsilon U of Waterloo
(men’s and women’s)! Lambda Omicron Cumberland U
Lambda Sigma U of Georgia
With a 3.47 GPA, Beta Phi was rst in grades among Lambda Tau U of Louisiana at Monroe
Panhellenic sororities for spring 2012. They also placed second Lambda Upsilon Lehigh U
out of all 68 fraternities and sororities at Indiana U! Mu Lambda Rollins College
Nu Omicron Vanderbilt U
Kappa Tau was once again rst in grades among all Greek Omega Miami U
organizations at Southeastern Louisiana U with a 3.21 GPA. Omicron U of Tennessee
Phi Lambda Youngstown State U
Pi Delta U of Maryland
Rho Delta Samford U
Rho Omicron Middle TN State U
Sigma U of California-Berkeley
Sigma Chi Hartwick College
Sigma Delta Huntingdon College
Sigma Gamma Appalachian State U
Sigma Omicron Arkansas State U
Sigma Tau Washington College
Tau U of Minnesota
Tau Delta Birmingham Southern College
Tau Omicron U of Tennessee-Martin
Theta Beta Towson U
Theta Chi Morningside College
Theta Pi Wagner College
Theta Psi U of Toledo
Zeta U of Nebraska Lincoln
Zeta Pi U of Alabama Birmingham

Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012 To Dragma • 41

Number of chapters in
each GPA range

3

9 2.5 - 2.74

24 2.75 - 2.99
27 3.0 - 3.24
40 3.25 - 3.5
3.5 and above

Overall AOII stats

Avg. AOII Chapter GPA 3.11 Median AOII Fall GPA 3.15
Avg. All-Womens GPA 3.07 Median All-Womens 3.07
Avg. Sorority GPA 3.13 Median Sorority 3.13


3.2

3.15 AOII
3.1 All-Women’s
All-Sorority
3.05
3 Median GPA

Average GPA

42 • To Dragma Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012

Lambda Sigma (U of Georgia) Profiles

Each year, AOII presents the McCausland Cup, named in honor of Lillian MacQuillan McCausland, eighth National President. The award is
given to AOII’s most outstanding chapter in the area of academic achievement. The selection of this award takes into account more than
just the chapter’s overall GPA. It also evaluates the chapter’s academic rank on campus, academic programming in the chapter, and the
high standards of scholarship set by the chapter for its members.

At Leadership Institute 2012, Lambda Sigma Chapter (U of Georgia) was presented with this high honor. The chapter’s faculty advisor,
Christine Shropshire of UGA’s Terry College of Business wrote in her letter of recommendation for Lambda Sigma, “Academic excellence is
not just simply an objective at Lambda Sigma; it is the standard and the expectation… Commitment to academic excellence at Lambda
Sigma is communicated to New Members and their parents, and further supported by chapter resources and mentoring programs.
Member achievements including strong test scores, invitations to prestigious honor societies and acceptance to competitive majors and
graduate programs are recognized on a weekly basis at chapter meetings as well as the annual Academic Banquet.”

The chapter consistently ranks in the top two spots in Panhellenic for GPA and maintains a high overall chapter GPA. In Fall 2011, Lambda
Sigma was first again among 17 Panhellenic sororities with a 3.48 GPA. Certainly, managing a chapter of over 200 women is not an easy
task, but not only does Lambda Sigma retain members through academic support, they’ve created a chapter culture in which scholarship
is highly valued. They use their high standards of academic achievement to recruit top students on their campus and are proud of their
legacy of scholarship in AOII. Congratulations to Lambda Sigma for being selected as the winner of the 2012 McCausland Cup.

Nu Omicron (Vanderbilt U)

Chapter president Katherine Lindell writes…
“As every AOII knows, scholarship is one of the fundamental values of our organization, and Nu Omicron never forgets that. We are also
fortunate enough to attend a university where academics come first for every student. For our chapter in particular, this creates an excellent
environment to exceed expectations - not just in terms of our national organization, but also in terms of academic performance on campus.
Academic excellence is part of everything we do.”

The chapter consciously schedules chapter programming around major test weeks at Vanderbilt, as well as graduate exams such as the
MCAT, LSAT, and GRE. Additionally, the VPAD hosts study hours throughout the week for members who like to have more structure to
their study habits. One of the chapter’s fun events is Pi Day, held on March 14 due to the 3.14 mathmatical expression. Every member who
receives a GPA higher than 3.14 receives a piece of pie. At the end of each semester, they also honor all 4.0-earning sisters with roses.

Last fall, the chapter started an in-house tutoring program. Our “sheaf system” tracks attendance and participation throughout the year
which is incorporated into this new academic program. Sisters can volunteer to lead study sessions on a regular basis for fellow sisters, and
they receive participation points as a result. The points system even applies to assisting with paper proofreading. This all leads back to their
strongest academic strategy - making themselves available to one another. The chapter genuinely wants to excel, and they want to reflect
the values of AOII.

Lambda Chi (LaGrange College)

Chapter President Tiffany Dillard writes “Lambda Chi takes academic success very seriously. We take pride in having the highest overall GPA
[at LaGrange College] for four years running now, and plan to continue that run.”

Lambda Chi has been honored on campus as the collegiate organization with the highest GPA. The chapter encourages a spirit of
academic excellence for sisters who have excelled in their classes by recognizing them in chapter meetings and congratulating them on
their hard work. To reward sisters at chapter meetings, they use a ‘Smarty’ and a ‘Skippy’ jar for sisters to place their name in for a raffle.
Scoring an A on a test or quiz earns the right to enter the member’s name in the Smarty jar for each one received. The Skippy jar is for
sisters who attended all of their classes the previous week. At the end of chapter meeting the VPAD draws two names and those sisters
receive a prize!

The chapter also congratulates sisters on their academic successes during their “Roses to...” session of chapter meetings by announcing the
achievements while everyone cheers for the members. Their advisors also support their academic success by making exam care packets
and back-to-school kits.

Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012 To Dragma • 43

WTheinLgosve

Biscoff Spread

This sweet and creamy spread is made with Biscoff
cookies - those yummy little biscuit-style cookies we all
enjoy on airline trips. Everything from toast and crackers
to fruit and ice cream tastes great with a little Biscoff.
Truthfully, it’s also delicious right out of the jar!

EOS Lip Balm

This 100% natural, 95%

organic lip balm totally
makes us smile! Packed with vitamin E, shea
butter and jojoba oil, it leads to super soft lips.
The balm comes in adorable packaging and
tasty flavors like summer fruit, lemon drop and
honeysuckle honeydew.

Hot Tamales iPad Keyboard Case

Who doesn’t love Hot Tamales? The word love is inadaquate to describe
Certainly not us! These chewy what we think of these iPad covers from
cinnamon flavored candies are Targus! Collegiate chapter members will
some of our favorite snacks! The be seeing one in the hands of your visiting
hot burst of flavor is pretty addicting. Educational Leadership Consultant this
We can’t eat just one, because before year - along with an iPad 3. The hard-shell
we know it - the box is always empty! cover includes a QWERTY bluetooth
keyboard and a built-in stand that allows
44 • To Dragma the iPad to rotate 360-degrees for
landscape or portrait viewing. Awesome!

Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012

Exercising Our Original Pig Tail
Right to Vote Food Flipper

AOII was approaching This grill tool may have a funny name but it sure
has a functional use. The sharp, spiral tip pierces
our quarter-century almost any type of food to make turning effortless.
mark before women in Steaks, hot dogs, ribs, and shrimp are a breeze to
the United States first flip on the grill, while indoors it works equally well
earned the right to vote on bacon, french toast and more. Check it out at
with the passage of the www.pigtailff.com.
19th Admendment in 1920!
Our Canadian sisters earned the
right to vote two years earlier in 1918.
Many AOIIs, notably Founder Jesse Wallace
Hughan, worked hard during the women’s suffrage
movement. We love their passion and plan to honor
their efforts by proudly exercising our right to vote
in the upcoming fall election!

Chobani Greek Yogurt To Dragma • 45

This good-for-you-food is a big hit at AOII HQ. It’s thicker than
regular yogurt because excess liquid is strained out. The result
that we love is a creamy yogurt packed with protein, active
cultures and probiotics. Yum!

On the Web

www.picmonkey.com

This web-based photo editing tool is a
super easy way to make your photos look
fabulous and, more importantly, make
us look fabulous. You can whiten teeth,
add a spray tan, add lip color, brush
out wrinkles and even carve off a little
weight. What’s not to love about all that?

Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012

Showing Off
9 Creative Ways to Display Pictures

Everyone has great memories captured in pictures, but when was the last time you
printed the photos stored on your phone, camera, computer or on Facebook? These
simple ideas will help you creatively display those pictures in your dorm room or in your
home. Whether you have 10 minutes or 3 hours, we have an easy and inexpensive way
to show o your summer fun!

Skill Level: Super Simple Effort less Presentation

A ll Tied Up Clipboards are an incredibly easy, customizable
way to display pictures. All you will need are
For this project you will need a some clipboards, scrapbook paper and your photos.
piece of ribbon (we suggest using Use the scrapbook paper behind the photos to create
at least 1 yard), clothespins or interest. Have fun with di erent
other clips (we used binder clips) patterns and colors.
and tacks. Measure your ribbon
to the wall (or bulletin board) Issue no. 3 • Spring 2012
where you want to display your
pictures and hang the ribbon with tacks.
Use the clothespins or other clips to hang up your pictures.

Hangin’ Around

Do you have extra hangers in your closet? Hang them on
the wall to create picture hanging art. All you need are
some extra hangers and binder clips. Attach the
binder clips to the bottom of the hanger. We
suggest using Command brand hooks to
prevent wall damage or for dorm room walls.

46 • To Dragma

by AOII Interns Sarah Jordan Priest, Omicron (U of Tennessee) and Olivia Manning, Beta Gamma (Michigan State U).

Skill Level: Moderate

Bulletin Board Revisit ed

This project is a little more time consuming. You’ll
need an old frame, a piece of corkboard cut to t the
frame, and a piece of burlap or fabric to cover your
corkboard. Cover your corkboard with fabric using
staples and then glue your covered corkboard to the
frame. To add some color to this project, spray paint
your frame before you begin. You can customize this
project by painting an initial, monogram, name or AOII
on to the burlap.

No P hoto
Boot h Required

Photo strips are great for bookmarks
or to just to hang up on a bulletin
board. You’ll need access to a
computer with photoshop and we
recommend using a copy store to
get them printed on glossy paper.
See sidebar for more detailed instructions.

Magnetic Idea

This is a great way to display pictures on your
fridge. You will need marbles, magnets, mod
podge, and images. You can create any type of
images you want for this project. Some ideas
include AOII themes, school spirited, monograms,
sports team or any patterns you like. You’ll need
images that are cut to the size of your magnets.
Start by applying a coat of mod podge to the at
side of your marble, and then place your image upside down (so you are looking at
the back) and apply another coat of mod podge. Finish by gluing magnets down.

Issue no. 3 • Spring 2012 To Dragma • 47

Skill Level: Slightly Complicated

Get Wired

A large frame is an e ective way to highlight your
pictures. You’ll need a big frame, wire, pushpins
and clips. Insert pushpins in the back of the frame
and wrap the wire around them. You can angle
the wire or make straight lines across. Use clips to
hang up your photos.

Bring t he Outside In

This is a simple project in terms of steps and
execution. It’s marked as complicated only because
shutters can be a little hard to track down. Check out garage sales
and thrift stores or you can buy new shutters from a hardware store.
The ones we bought were paintable so they could be customized. All you
need is a shutter and some tape to secure the photos to the back of the shutter.

Forest P hotos

Gluing your photos to wood creates a rustic feel.
You’ll need pieces of wood, mod podge and your
photos. Brush mod podge on to the wood and place
your photos. Then coat your photos with another
layer of mod podge. You can also decorate the
borders around your photos to customize them.

INSTAGRAM TUTORIAL for Photostrips

You’ll need to start with a document that is 1.5” x 6” (if
you want them a little bigger you can make it 2” x 8”).
You want to make a white border around the entire
strip as well as in between your photos as a template.

Place your photos and size them so they t in each
square. Save each strip individually. Then create a new
document 8.5” x 11” and place each strip. We suggest
lining them up right next to each other so they are
easier to cut out. You might consider adding some
crop marks to the corners so you know where to cut.
Save your 8.5” x 11” document as a PDF to take to the
copy shop to print.

CollegiateNews

Ask Us,“Why, AOII?”

Why AOII? Sure, AOII collegiate chapters are known for successful

philan ropic events, outstanding educational programming, creative
scholarship incentives, and heartwarming sisterhood stories; but our
collegiate chapters love to have fun, too! Take a few minutes to read
about some of e social events our collegiate chapters have recently
enjoyed at are held to have fun wi sisters or o er members of e
campus and/or Greek community.

Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012 To Dragma • 49

CollegiateNews

Above: Alpha Delta (U of Alabama); Previous page: Kappa Tau (Southeastern Louisiana U)

Alpha Chi Beta Gamma they always do. In February, we held
(Western Kentucky U) (Michigan State U) our annual crush dance, AOParadise.
Spring always brings a chance for Everyone looked like they were ready
On Friday, February 24, Alpha Chi Beta Gamma sisters to come together for a tropical vacation, and leis and
held our annual Rose Formal. From at a Masquerade-themed formal on Hawaiian dresses were a huge hit!
crowning our king to recognizing the Michigan Princess, which is a We look forward to our Semi-formal
outstanding seniors, every Alpha O looks boat on the Grand River. Sisters dance this spring, and can’t wait for
forward to this great evening. One of the also love the opportunity to enjoy a Red Rose Formal next fall.
most prestigious awards an initiated member sleepover together before summer.
of our chapter can receive is Miss AOII. This Beta Tau (U of Toronto)
year the chapter presented Emily Borgmeier Beta Kappa Issue no. 3 • Summer 2012
with this honor. Not only is she one of the (U of British Columbia)
most involved seniors in our chapter but Last spring semester, Beta Kappa
she also is the definition of a true AOII. A sisters held exchanges with many of
member of Sigma Chi, Mac Mullins, was the fraternities on campus with fun
selected our new king and we couldn’t themes such as trivia night, birthday
be more excited! party, and casino royale. In addition,
the annual Rose Ball was a success
Alpha Gamma with many alumnae in attendance.
(Washington State U) Our new chapter felt truly integrated
into the community as Spring
Alpha Gamma loves Greek Week and the semester came to a close.
opportunity to show the rest of the Greek
community that we’re serious about winning Beta Phi (Indiana U)
while having fun with our partners. After The members of Beta Phi have had a
Greek Week, we loved getting dressed up blast this year. We danced the night
for our Spring Formal Dinner with our away last fall during our Formal, and
dates. We ended the semester by inviting our our sisters looked so beautiful, as
mothers to Washington State U for Mom’s
Weekend to get a taste of what life is like for
us o5n0 •caTmo Dpruasg.ma