Foundation Focus 51 KANDY BERNSKOETTER Sigma (U of California Berkeley) I have been honored to serve as the liaison to the Ruby Fund Committee for the past few years. Watching this Committee help sisters in dire need – even during the COVID pandemic – made me proud to be an AOII. The predecessor to the Ruby Fund started when sisters helped our Founder, Stella George Stern Perry, and that love continues today – it is so powerful to see! As I imagine my time after serving on the Board, I have told some of the sta that I would love to relax on a beach somewhere! In reality, I hope I can return to a collegiate advisory board where I can make an impact on women in my local area and (hopefully!) inspire them to give and serve the Foundation. I also am an airline pilot and fl y for free, so I would love to spend some time with distant alumnae chapters as well. I am looking forward to the opening of our Archives Museum and the updates to our Headquarters. I love history and museums, and this will be AOII’s little piece of it. I encourage all sisters reading this to involve themselves with the Foundation and be fearless, take chances, and keep our Fraternity strong. BARBARA BRUNING Theta Psi (U of Toledo) It has been one of my great pleasures to serve on the AOII Foundation Board of Directors. I have gotten to know some of the most talented, accomplished, and dedicated people I have ever known. The passion and skills of our Directors have led to our achievements in the past six years. When I joined the Board, we had several main objectives: developing a new strategic plan, hiring and retaining competent sta , and creating a map to fi nancial stability by overcoming our defi cit. This work was not easy. Our Board represents the Foundation itself, but also the donors who invest their dollars and volunteer their time. After many hours of meetings and discussions the Board, in conjunction with the Executive Director, developed a new strategic plan for the years 2022-2026 with ambitious goals that align with the Fraternity’s Ends. We hired an experienced, detail-oriented Executive Director, who has guided our organization to more e cient operations. To ensure fi nancial viability, we have grown the number of donors and amount of average donations and increased the number of sisters in the various giving societies. I believe that success leads to satisfaction, and I know our Board of Directors made a positive di erence for our beloved Fraternity. CRYSTAL GRAFTON COMBS Nu Beta (U of Mississippi) When I think of the last four years of service, I am reminded of how our sisterhood evolved amid a global pandemic to meet the changing needs of our members, both virtually and in real life. Our Foundation supported the work of our Fraternity as we kicked o what is now our third annual Alumnae Leadership Conference, allowing us to virtually connect our alumnae members to one another in a new and exciting way. In real life, we opened our Ruby Fund to include assistance for both collegiate and alumnae members, further demonstrating the love that is at the heart of AOII. In addition to these remarkable moments, I hope to always remember with fondness the celebrations that we have shared. Notable among these is the recognition of 55 years in partnership with the Arthritis Foundation and the celebration of our 125th Anniversary, along with the kicko of the Archives Campaign in support of a new museum to properly preserve our beautiful history for generations to come. I have always served our Fraternity and our Foundation with the hope that I will make a di erence. Now, as I look toward my future with the word “Past” as part of my title, I am hopeful that history will show that I have done just that. If anyone is reading this and hopes to do the same, I would encourage you to consider service to our Foundation. This is one of the many ways that together we can Inspire Ambition.
Alumnae Leadership Program 52 | Spring 2023 ALPHA OMICRON PI Alumnae Leadership Program MONTHLY ALP EVENTS CREATE VIRTUAL CONNECTIONS In 2021, Alpha Omicron Pi launched the Alumnae Leadership Program (ALP), a virtual space for alumnae chapter members to collaborate with sisters from across North America regarding topics that impact their leadership and membership experience in Alpha Omicron Pi. What the pandemic taught the Lifetime Engagement Team about connecting alumnae was that it could be done virtually, both easily and often, to keep their involvement vibrant through unprecedented times but more importantly moving forward. The ALP sessions began with topics such as Ritual education, membership recruitment and retention, communication and social media, and calendar planning. Over the past two years since the program launch, over 2,000 alumnae chapter members have attended Alumnae Leadership Program sessions representing over 125 alumnae chapters all across the United States and Canada. Alumnae Chapter leaders and members alike joined to ask questions and brainstorm best practices for boosting their membership, keeping their membership engaged as well as learning about the Fraternity’s technology platform, AlphaLink. While many of the ALP sessions have an educational focus, the NSLE team has implemented social based sessions including the Galentine’s Celebration, Social Networking ALC Kick-O , and a Holiday Party that o er time for our members to socialize with one another. During our most recent Holiday Party, sisters joined together to decorate cookies and play holiday themed games to celebrate in the magic of the season. Karli Sherman, Delta Beta (U of Louisiana, Lafayette) enjoys the 2022 Virtual Alumnae Leadership Conference
Alumnae Leadership Program 52 | Spring 2023 ALPHA OMICRON PI Alumnae Leadership Program MONTHLY ALP EVENTS CREATE VIRTUAL CONNECTIONS In 2021, Alpha Omicron Pi launched the Alumnae Leadership Program (ALP), a virtual space for alumnae chapter members to collaborate with sisters from across North America regarding topics that impact their leadership and membership experience in Alpha Omicron Pi. What the pandemic taught the Lifetime Engagement Team about connecting alumnae was that it could be done virtually, both easily and often, to keep their involvement vibrant through unprecedented times but more importantly moving forward. The ALP sessions began with topics such as Ritual education, membership recruitment and retention, communication and social media, and calendar planning. Over the past two years since the program launch, over 2,000 alumnae chapter members have attended Alumnae Leadership Program sessions representing over 125 alumnae chapters all across the United States and Canada. Alumnae Chapter leaders and members alike joined to ask questions and brainstorm best practices for boosting their membership, keeping their membership engaged as well as learning about the Fraternity’s technology platform, AlphaLink. While many of the ALP sessions have an educational focus, the NSLE team has implemented social based sessions including the Galentine’s Celebration, Social Networking ALC Kick-O , and a Holiday Party that o er time for our members to socialize with one another. During our most recent Holiday Party, sisters joined together to decorate cookies and play holiday themed games to celebrate in the magic of the season. Karli Sherman, Delta Beta (U of Louisiana, Lafayette) enjoys the 2022 Virtual Alumnae Leadership Conference Alumnae Leadership Program 53 ALP EVENTS PLANNED FOR 2023 SPRING SEMESTER Galentine's Alumnae Celebration February 15th | 7:30 p.m. CT Sense of Belonging for Alumnae Members March 15th | 7:30 p.m. CT Convention Planning May 15th | 7:30 p.m. CT ALUMNAE LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE KICKOFF April 14th | 7:00 p.m. CT ALUMNAE LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE April 15th | 11:00 a.m. CT During our Galentine’s celebration in 2022, sisters joined the session and painted a Valentine’s themed wine glass they could gift to a sister, friend or loved one. Attendees joined breakout rooms to talk about their Galentine and share with their groups what that sister meant to them. Each of the ALP sessions featured multiple guests and inspirational speakers to presenting on topics to the alumnae chapter leaders and members such as Founders’ Day, AOII’s awards process, community and Panhellenic involvement and more. One thing that members can look forward to during each ALP session is a Ritual Moment, led by the alumnae RT&J co-liaisons, Rene Fitzgerald and Toni Morgan. Rene and Toni share these Ritual Moments to inspire a greater sense of belonging to the Fraternity in sharing Ritual with alumnae members participating in the sessions. Finally, each Alumnae Leadership Program session features a “share session” at the conclusion to o er alumnae members time to brainstorm ideas and ask questions of one another. These share sessions allow for chapters of similar sizes to collaborate and fi nd ways to best support their membership. In our past sessions, alumnae chapter members have worked together to discuss topics to increase alumnae chapter membership, elevate chapter fundraising events, and fi nd ways to reach recent graduates and young alumnae. The Alumnae Leadership Program has provided alumnae chapter members a space to fi nd o cers from di erent chapters from all across the United States and Canada, to share in their experiences and even better, make new friends along the way! In 2023, the Lifetime Engagement Team will host four ALP sessions in the spring focused on promoting the alumnae chapter experience. Fall session dates will be announced in the summer of 2023. For questions on how to sign up for an Alumnae Leadership Program session or to submit a program topic, please contact the Network Specialist Lifetime Engagement Team at [email protected]. FEB MAR APR MAY ALUMNAE LEADERSHIP C O NFER ENC E
Things We Love 54 | Spring 2023 LOVE Based on the #1 New York Times bestseller A Man Called Ove, A Man Called Otto is a movie that tells the story of Otto Anderson (Tom Hanks), a grumpy widower who no longer sees the purpose in his life following loss and whose only joy comes from criticizing and judging his neighbors. Otto is at his end until a lively family moves in next door which leads to a surprising friendship that challenges him to see life di erently. This story shows that family can be found in the most unexpected places. WATCH A MAN CALLED OTTO THINGS WE breaking barriers edition LOVE “We can do hard things” – the mantra that saved her life twenty years ago became a worldwide force from Glennon Doyle’s Untamed, a book released at the start of the pandemic. Glennon rallies, “Life is freaking HARD. We are all doing hard things every single day.” On her podcast, Glennon, her wife, and her sister talk honestly about the hard so we can all help to carry each other and “live a little bit lighter and braver, more free and less alone.” wecandohardthingspodcast.com LISTEN WE CAN DO HARD THINGS PODCAST WITH GLENNON DOYLE
55 Things We Love Located in Nashville, Tennessee, NMAAM is the only museum of its kind dedicated to preserving the legacy, educating the world, and celebrating the central role African Americans play in creating the American soundtrack. The museum presents expertly curated collections sharing the story of musical heroes past to present through history and interactive technology. nmaam.org As a New York Time Best Selling author, blogger, television host, and beloved podcaster, Jen Hatmaker is best known for connecting with women in her audiences and fi nding the laughter in life’s daily moments. She is an advocate for families, faith, a circle of friends, social justice, and equality. Feed These People is a recipe book that invites you into the bustle of Jen’s kitchen, colorful conversation, and the hilarious chaos around her back porch table, while expressing her life story through her culinary favorites. jenhatmaker.com/books/feedthesepeople EXPERIENCE National Museum of African American Music READ Feed These People by Jen Hatmaker Danielle Bayard Jackson is a certifi ed women's coach and friendship expert who teaches women about the power of social (and business) connections. She has created a space for modern women who want to learn how to deepen friendships and create meaningful bonds and resources to help experience more joy in relationships because she believes there is nothing more beautiful and powerful than female friendships. @daniellebayardjackson on Instagram FOLLOW Danielle Bayard Jackson
Inulliquam, sim qui A. C.* B. B. D. E. G. F. J. J. I. I. H. A. Traditional Vertical Letters Lavaliere with 18” GF Snake Chain, #L2649ALOCPI 10K $99 B. Snake Chain, #SNAKE SS $30 | GF $35 C. Ruby A, Pearl O, Chased Pi Honor Badge*, #0101 *Available for purchase only through headquarters. D. Diamond and Garnet Badge Pendant, #0051DIGA 10K $894 E. Infinity Rose Charm, #24736 14K $329 | SS $46 | GP $43 (Chain sold separately) F. Bolo Bracelet, #H3996B GP $42 G. Garnet Cushion Ring with rose mounting, #0456 10K, 10KW $350 | SS $141 H. Cora Ring, #RP3400 SS $159 I. Stackable CZ Band Ring, #143864 SS, SS with GP $25 J. Addy Ring, #ADDY SP, GP $35 Chain, badge* and badge pendant each sold separately. Chain sold separately. HJGreek.com | 1.800.542.3728 For FREE STANDARD SHIPPING use promo code: AOPI23 Valid through May 31, 2023 AOPi Feb2023 ad R4.indd 1 2/15/23 12:09 PM 56 | Spring 2023
Fugias ent quam is aoii_dragmamagazine_printad.indd 1 2/6/23 1:28 PM 57 A. C.* B. B. D. E. G. F. J. J. I. I. H. A. Traditional Vertical Letters Lavaliere with 18” GF Snake Chain, #L2649ALOCPI 10K $99 B. Snake Chain, #SNAKE SS $30 | GF $35 C. Ruby A, Pearl O, Chased Pi Honor Badge*, #0101 *Available for purchase only through headquarters. D. Diamond and Garnet Badge Pendant, #0051DIGA 10K $894 E. Infinity Rose Charm, #24736 14K $329 | SS $46 | GP $43 (Chain sold separately) F. Bolo Bracelet, #H3996B GP $42 G. Garnet Cushion Ring with rose mounting, #0456 10K, 10KW $350 | SS $141 H. Cora Ring, #RP3400 SS $159 I. Stackable CZ Band Ring, #143864 SS, SS with GP $25 J. Addy Ring, #ADDY SP, GP $35 Chain, badge* and badge pendant each sold separately. Chain sold separately. HJGreek.com | 1.800.542.3728 For FREE STANDARD SHIPPING use promo code: AOPI23 Valid through May 31, 2023 AOPi Feb2023 ad R4.indd 1 2/15/23 12:09 PM
PHOTOS Spring Kappa Delta (Wright State U) Central Kentucky Bluegrass Alumnae
Delta Tau (U of Alabama, Huntsville) Alpha Phi (Montana State U) Green Bay-Fox Cities Alumnae Spring Photos 59
Alpha Delta (U of Alabama) Theta Sigma (Tarleton State U) Spring Photos 60 | Spring 2023
Theta Sigma (Tarleton State U) Xi Omicron (U of Arkansas) Zeta Pi (U of Alabama, Birmingham) Chi Psi (California Polytechnic State U) Sigma Tau (Washington College) 61
Delta Beta (U of Louisiana, Lafayette) and Zeta Psi (East Carolina U) Sigma Alpha (West Virginia U) Greater Sacramento Valley Alumnae 62 | Spring 2023
63 Gamma Delta (U of South Alabama) Kappa Lambda (U of Calgary) Little Rock Area Alumnae Spring Photos
64 | Spring 2023 Lambda Psi (Arizona State U) Lambda Tau (U of Louisiana at Monroe) Kappa Omicron (Rhodes College)
65 Pi Alpha (U of Louisville) Phi Sigma (U of Nebraska, Kearney) Spring Photos
Emporium SPRING FORWARD IN STYLE 1 1 Faces Crewneck – $32 2 Ivory Seal Long Sleeve – $30 3 Circle Around the Infinity Rose Tee – $24 4 Ladies Plaited Polo – $30 5 Bold Alpha O Sisterhood Crewneck – $32 6 Infinity Times Nine Hoodie – $36
Emporium 67 Shop now at aoiiemporium.com 2 3 4 5 6 (Front) (Back)
International Headquarters 5390 Virginia Way Brentwood, Tennessee 37027 ELECTRONIC SERVICE REQUESTED We wish each graduating senior success as you wrap up your fi nal days as a collegiate member of AOII. As you move into the next exciting phase of your life, we hope you will stay connected to the Fraternity by embracing all that the AOII Alumnae experience has to o er! We invite you to: Join a local alumnae chapter Participate in one of many Fraternity-wide alumnae events Pay your annual AOII Alumnae Dues Join Life Loyal AOII Stay in touch with your collegiate chapter sisters Keep your AOII membership information up to date Learn more about all alumnae opportunities by visiting alphaomicronpi.org/for-members/alumnae-opportunities. Have you heard about AOII’s First Year On Us program? AOII’s First Year On Us program allows any alumna who has graduated in the past fi ve years, and has never joined an alumnae chapter, to receive her fi rst year of alumnae dues at no cost. All you need to do to join is tell the Alumnae Chapter President in your new hometown that it is your fi rst time to join an alumnae chapter and she will take care of the reporting. Visit alphaomicronpi.org/news/ fi rst-year-on-us-program to learn more. TO THE CLASS OF 2023! Congratulations Omicron (U of Tennessee, Knoxville)