The Promise

cooled down is important. Deep breathing in through is the real key to heart health and overall well being.
the nose and out through the mouth can help cool Beyond physical benefits, exercise revives the mind
the brain further. This also promotes relaxation, and spirit, too. Thirty minutes of exercise four to
especially if the time of exhalation is lengthened. To five times a week can relieve stress, improve your
try this on your own, slow your breathing down to concentration and memory as well as boost your
around eight to ten seconds per breath and focusing immune system. Keep it social. Find a sister and
on breathing deeply into the lower abdomen. choose the activity that is perfect to do together like
Zumba or an intramural sport!
If your schedule gets too busy to get the
recommended 7-8 hours of sleep each night, try Try to move and change positions often throughout
taking a quick nap in the early afternoon. Research the day in addition to exercising. Our bodies have
has shown that a 20 minute nap in the early two circulatory systems: the cardiovascular system
afternoon is equivalent to 90 minutes of sleep at and the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is
night. powered by muscle movement and exertion and is
a major instrument in the detoxification of the body.
Make Time for Exercise: As a college student, Without enough consistent movement or exercise,
toxins have a tendency to be retained in our bodies.
walking may already be a big part of your everyday
life, but it is important to realize that aerobic activity Now get your sisters together and get moving!

51 • Alpha Omicron Pi

More Than Just A Bad Day
Adjusting from high school to college can be very difficult. Your life changes all at once, and often we
become overwhelmed. Use your sisters as a support system and watch out for each other. Below are some
signs for serious issues. These are just quick characteristics of each condition, not a tool for diagnosis.
Please, remember there are trained professionals on your campus to help. If you feel that you or a sister
may be suffering from one of these issues seek help from one of those professionals. Do not try to handle it
alone.

Depression: Did you know that serotonin is a
• Loss of pleasure from activities once enjoyed neurotransmitter that has been shown
• A feeling of guilt or worthlessness to be important in relation to mood and
• Persistent irritability well-being? Some natural factors that can
• Constant sad/anxious mood raise serotonin include:
• Light exposure
Eating Disorders: • Exercise
• Obsession with calories/food • Relating, bonding, nurturing
• Secret eating patterns • Laughter
• Constant talk of weight and body size • Pleasant music
• Hiding food in unusual locations
My campus health and wellness
Anxiety: resources are:
• Viewing problems unrealistically _____________________________
• Excessive or constant worry/tension _____________________________
• Difficulty concentrating due to restlessness _____________________________

The Loving Yourself modules within Alpha Essentials on Fulfilling the Promise offer
additional information about mental health. Check out “You’re Not Alone,” “We Need to Talk
About Suicide,” and “Dying to Be Thin” for topic-specific education.
The Promise • 52

Loving You!

One of the many wonderful things
about AOII is how we embrace
the talents and contributions of all
our members.

We encourage you to be the best you.
We also help you to become the very
best you! Your 190,000 sisters across
North America want nothing but the
best for you and would be happy to
help you see all the wonderful abilities
we already see!

Being happy with who you are
currently is the first step toward
positive change. It is important to
accept yourself, flaws and all. Take
some time to discover what you most
love about yourself. This list shouldn’t
only be physical traits. Think of the
talents and abilities you can offer your
family, friends, and chapter. Now think
of ways you can get involved in your
chapter, community, and campus to
develop these skills! Show them off!
Real beauty comes from within and it
is demonstrated by how you treat
other people.

We are all beautiful!

53 • Alpha Omicron Pi

Stand By Me

When we join AOII, we join a sisterhood. We make a promise to love and cherish each other. We promise to
be a friend whom no one is afraid to call. In fulfilling those promises, we must learn to be actively engaged
in the world around us so we can watch out for not only ourselves, but for our sisters as well. We must learn
to be an active bystander.

Bystander behavior occurs when people are in dangerous or uncertain situations, and they do not take the
necessary steps to intervene. On college campuses across North America, our members find themselves
in situations where they have to make these choices everyday. Bystander behavior, a social psychological
phenomenon, refers to instances where individuals do not offer help in emergency situations because
they are surrounded by a lot of other bystanders. An observer must be able to define a situation as an
emergency before he or she is able to react appropriately.

AOII partnered with the RESPONSE ABILITY Project’s Every|Day Hero campaign in 2012 (raproject.org).
According to the creator and producer of the RA Project, Mike Dilbek, there are three skills that individuals
must embody when finding themselves in questionable situations.

1. Define what is happening as a problem

Usually, a person can identify that the situation is problematic, but tries to justify their inaction or delayed
reaction. As a bystander, a person comes up with excuses for not intervening such as, “That is someone
else’s problem” or “Maybe that isn’t a big deal.” But someone who is equipped to intervene has different
thoughts like, “This is a problem,” or “This can escalate into something bigger than my control,” or “I would
want someone to help me out if I were in this situation.”

2. Be the one responsibile for dealing with the problem

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

3. Identify the barriers preventing intervention, then go beyond them

What is stopping other people from intervening? Does the person in the situation and the bystander have
a close relationship? What is the competence of the bystander? Will they be able to navigate the problem
at hand? Is the person in trouble crying out for help or trying to conceal the situation as a non-issue by
negating accusations of concern or blatantly refusing the help when they are aware they are in need?
Bystander intervention will occur when a person recognizes those barriers, determines her plan of action,
and intervenes.

The Promise • 54

“Being an AOII has given me more opportunities than I ever
imagined and has matured me and prepared me for the rest
of my life. By being an AOII, I know I am prepared for what the
future has to bring.”
Bailey Bingham, Xi Omicron (U of Arkansas)

55 • Alpha Omicron Pi

Networking

At some point in your college career you will likely begin
your search for a job in your long-anticipated career.
First, make a list of potential employers. Next, find a con-
tact for each place.

Becoming an AOII connects you into a network of wom-
en in all kinds of careers. Don’t be afraid to reach out to
your Network Specialist of Alumnae. She can direct you
in the right path. Sisters are always willing to help out!

My Network Specialist - Alumnae:
_____________________________________

Once you have a contact, get in touch immediately for
more information. The person on the receiving end will
appreciate your initiative. Don’t leave a meeting or end
a call without also inquiring as to who else might be a
potential contact. In this way you build a larger network
and expand your sphere of influence and contacts.

Technology can be a great tool for networking. While
you may be more familiar with Facebook as a social net-
working site, it is widely used by businesses as well. In fact,
many employers make their first impressions of potential employees based upon the visual “resume”
of photos on Facebook. Be aware that potential employers may view your social networking pages for
information on you. Another widely used networking site is LinkedIn. This site connects you with friends
but also enables you to see the friends of friends and their friends of friends, etc. The benefit of this site
lies in the robust reach across so many people, industries, and employers.

The Professionalism session in Alpha Essentials offers several resources about why LinkedIn
is important and how to use it effectively. Take a look at these modules in Fulfilling the
Promise so you can create and improve your LinkedIn profile today! The Career Center on
the AOII website is another excellent networking tool.

The Promise • 56

Interviewing

So you’ve networked, done your research on a potential employer, and landed an interview for a dream job!
After making a great first impression, how will you answer questions in a way that makes your future boss
see you as a perfect fit for this potential role?

Tell me about yourself.
Allow yourself to shine! It is an interview, and that’s why you are supposed to show confidence about your
abilities. Include some personal information so you don’t appear guarded, but keep it light.

What are your strengths and weaknesses?
This isn’t a trick question. Highlight all you feel you are good at and could bring to the job. Explain why it
would be beneficial in this position. Add a couple of weaknesses, but describe how you will be able to
overcome them. Make sure they know you are ready and eager to learn.

Tell me about a time you had to complete multiple tasks within a tight timeline.
Remember the acronym “EAR” which stands for Event, Action taken, Results.

You are almost ready to score that job!
Here are some last minute tips:
• Maintain eye contact.
• Be conscious of body language.
• A nswer questions with an upbeat and

confident voice.
• Bring your own questions about the

position and the organization.
• Thank the interviewer for the chance to

meet and inquire about next steps.
• W rite a thank you note to the person

who interviewed you.

Grab a sister and go practice! She will
be excited to help and might learn
something too!

57 • Alpha Omicron Pi

Etiquette

How do etiquette and manners effect the way you portray yourself? Knowing good etiquette is a
ticket to acceptance and respect in the social world. Begin preparing now for the many encounters
you will have with professionals in your field of interest. When you act with poise in business and
social settings, you project confidence and instill others’ confidence in your abilities. Here are some
quick tips for ensuring positive impressions:

Cell Phones:

• Restrict use to times when it is not intrusive upon conversations held in person.
• Step into another room to answer your phone or make a call.
• Turn your phone to silent during meetings, class, movies, and meals.

E-mails:

• Do not type in all capital letters.
• Format to appear professional and easy to view. Beware of using colored fonts or backgrounds.
• Use CC and Reply All appropriately, and always use caution when forwarding.
• Respond to emails received in a timely manner.

Telephone:

• Return phone calls within 24 hours.
• Smile when talking on the phone.
• Leave complete but not lengthy phone messages on voicemail.

Dining:

• Place your napkin in your lap as you sit down at a table.
• Wait to eat until everyone at your table has been served and the host/hostess starts to eat.
• Your bread plate is always on the left and your water glass is always on the right.
• Don’t push your plate away from you when you are finished, indicate you are done with the

placement of your silverware. Place silverware across your plate diagonally at the 4:20 position.
• Be gracious and thank the servers.

Finally:

• The first 12 steps you take into a room should be confident.
• The first 12 words you say should be positive and welcoming.
• Let your light shine and show your confidence in every interaction!

The Promise • 58

AOII Events

You have the opportunity to use the networking and etiquette skills mentioned on the previous pages at
AOII’s many events. AOII hosts three landmark international events. Each of these events strives to build
relationships among Fraternity members, provide training, and celebrate the achievements of AOII chapters
and members. AOII International events are a fantastic opportunity to grow your love for the Fraternity by
seeing AOII on a grand scale beyond the scope of your chapter. These events are a great jumping off point
for a lifetime of involvement in AOII.

International Convention
AOII’s International Convention is held in June of odd years. As the largest AOII event of the biennium,
Convention is home to the democratic process of the Fraternity where council votes on changes and
updates to the Governing Documents, to the largest and most awe-inspiring Rituals, and to formal banquets
that celebrate the accomplishments of AOII chapters and members. It is a truly incredible experience that
is hosted at a different city each convention (recent locations include Los Angeles and Washington D.C.).
AOIIs can learn about the business of AOII, gain leadership skills through educational sessions, celebrate the
achievements of AOII through awards recognitions, gain inspiration through the Rituals and ceremonies of
the Fraternity, and explore the host city with sisters from across the United States and Canada.

Leadership Institute
Held in June of even years, Leadership Institute is open to all sisters as it is a weekend of education and
sisterhood through celebrating who we are personally and who we are to AOII. Learning sessions share useful
tools and information for personal development and help sharpen leadership skills for advancement and
overcoming obstacles. There are great opportunities to collaborate with and meet hundreds of energetic
sisters from across the United States and Canada during educational sessions, AOII awards, meals, or a tour
of AOII International Headquarters.

Leadership Academy
Held annually near Nashville, TN in February, Leadership Academy is designed to help chapter leaders
successfully navigate the challenges and opportunities within their chapters and develop plans for
improvement. Attending Leadership Academy provides these leaders with a unique opportunity to get
the tools and resources to become better prepared to lead and advance their chapters through interactive
sessions and programming. In addition to the preparedness that comes from Leadership Academy, this three-
day event offers opportunities for networking among other leaders, connecting with staff and volunteers that
serve as resources, best practice sharing, and strategic planning. Each year, one adviser and two officers are
invited from each collegiate chapter to share in this educational event.

59 • Alpha Omicron Pi

Join Your Sisters At Our

The Promise • 60

Next International Event!

61 • Alpha Omicron Pi

ambitiously

AS MEMBERS OF ALPHA OMICRON PI we are committed to actions

that align with our core values, and at no time is this promise more important than
when we take on leadership roles in our chapter, campus life, work setting, and
community. In fact, the opportunities for leadership within AOII provide excellent
training and experience that you can carry with you throughout your life.

Whether you choose to serve on a committee, run for a chapter office, or represent
AOII as a member of other campus or community organizations, there are numerous
ways to enhance leadership skills through AOII. Learning how to use your own
strengths and build upon them as a leader is what leadership development in AOII is
all about.

“AOII’s values have

strengthened the person

I was before and shaped
me to be the best version
of myself. These values
have instilled confidence

and leadership in me and

helped me prepare not only
for college, but for life.”

Courtney Schroeder, Alpha Rho
(Oregon State U)

AOII Leadership
Leaders’ Council

Leaders’ Council is comprised of the chapter officers listed below, as well as any other officers the
chapter deems necessary. They meet weekly to follow up on chapter goals, share updates on officer
responsbilities and projects, discuss recommendations for the chapter, and streamline business prior
to chapter meetings. In these meetings, Leaders’ Council creates a chapter agenda with important
information for the week ahead to let you know what is coming up and how to get involved. As an
initiated member you are welcome to attend any Leaders’ Council meeting!

Chapter President VP of Academic Development VP of Finance
Keeper of the Ritual
New Member Educator VP of Administration VP of Membership Recruitment
Panhellenic Delegate
Secretary VP of Chapter Development VP of Standards

VP of Communication

VP of Education

Interested in learning more about a specific office? Look to the Collegiate Chapter Operations Manual
(CCOM) in the Officer Resource Library on Fulfilling the Promise for more information about what it
means to be a chapter leader and the duties of these officers. Additionally, each officer has a manual
found in the Officer Resource Library.

Cabinet

Cabinet consists of additional chapter officers that assist Leaders’ Council in carrying out chapter goals.
Cabinet includes the offices listed below. Many chapters add or take away cabinet offices according to
the demands of the chapter or campus.

Activities Chairman Social Chairman
Alumnae Relations Chairman Songleader
Historian To Dragma Reporter
Philanthropy Chairman

Committees

No office is complete without a committee of helpful sisters! Chapter committees are formed to help our
officers complete tasks and plan events. Committees are a great way for both new members and initiated
members to get involved with the chapter and find where they may want to lead. Ask your Vice President
of Administration for more information.

The Promise • 64

Alumnae Advisory Committee

The AAC is made up of dedicated alumnae
members who offer direction in planning,
reporting, following policies, and evaluating
the success of the chapter. Your chapter’s
advisers volunteer their time and energy
to work closely with Leaders’ Council and
Cabinet officers to help them achieve their
goals and model lifetime engagement in AOII
to all members. Get to know these women as
they have a lot to offer!

AOII Executive Board

These women are volunteers living all over
the United States and Canada. They are
elected Fraternity officers who formulate
policy and oversee the direction and strategic development of the Fraternity.
Members include the International President, a Vice President of Finance, six Vice Presidents,
and the Immediate Past International President (ex-officio).

Names to Know: AOII Executive Board

AOII International President: Vice President of Finance:

Vice President: Vice President:

Vice President: Vice President:

Vice President: Vice President:

Immediate Past International President (ex-officio):

International Council

Council is the legislative body of Alpha Omicron Pi. Members of Council include Chapter Presidents and
Chapter Advisers of all chapters in good standing, among other volunteers and representatives. Council
meets at International Convention to conduct Fraternity business and elect the AOII Executive Board and
the AOII Foundation Board.

65 • Alpha Omicron Pi

Networks

Our chapters are divided geographically into networks. Each network has a Network Director who
leads a group of multiple Network Specialists serving as experts in Alumnae, Finance, Leadership, and
Recruitment. The network teams work with an Assistant Director of Collegiate Experience who serves as
their liaison at International Headquarters. All of these women work together with chapters to provide
support, resources and guidance.

AOII’s newest chapters are not initially part of a network, but instead receive individualized support
from a Network Specialist - Development and an Assistant Director of Collegiate Experience. These
volunteers and staff members dedicate their efforts to guiding a chapter through its first few years as an
installed chapter.
The Promise • 66

We Are Here To Help!

All of the women on the previous pages are here to help ensure your chapter is the best it can be!
Never hesitate to ask for support or offer suggestions.

My Chapter President: My Network Director or
My Chapter Adviser: Network Specialist - Development:

My Assistant Director of Collegiate
Experiencet:

You can find a listing of your chapter’s officers, advisers, network volunteers, and staff
partners by clicking on My Contacts on the left side of the homepage of Fulfilling the Promise.
You can also view this information for other collegiate chapters and alumnae chapters!

67 • Alpha Omicron Pi

AOII International

Headquarters

The Promise • 68

“Our goal is to provide exceptional service for an extraordinary
AOII experience.”

Troy LeForge, AOII Executive Director
Beta Phi (Indiana U)

For nearly a quarter of a century, Stella George Stern Perry stored AOII’s most important possessions
in a little black box with AOII lettering. Our Founders’ dream grew so quickly, it was not long before
AOII needed a permanent home. Now happily settled in Brentwood, TN, nearly 50 staff members
strive to serve our members and provide extraordinary AOII experiences. The primary function of staff
is to provide stability and support to the membership by maintaining effective operations. From the
preparation of annual financial statements, to the daily monitoring of chapter programming, the role of
staff is essential to the daily operations of our collegiate and alumnae chapters, as well as to our
general membership.
Headquarters staff welcomes visits from our chapter members and alumnae. Please stop by for a tour;
our office is open Monday-Friday from 8:30am to 5:15pm Central.

Educational Leadership Consultants

ELCs are recent alumnae women that travel to our chapters offering enthusiasm and
encouragement while serving as liaisons and educators from Headquarters to the college level.
You have the opportunity to meet an ELC when she visits your chapter at some point this year. Ask
her about her role and who knows, one day you might decide to pursue this leadership role, too!
The ELC who visited this year was _________________________________________________.

69 • Alpha Omicron Pi

Leading In Panhellenic
The National Panhellenic Conference (NPC), as the name suggests, is a
conference body “established to foster interfraternity relationships, to
assist collegiate chapters of the NPC member groups, and to cooperate
with colleges and universities in maintaining the highest scholastic and
social standards.”

In 1904, Stella Perry attended the NPC annual conference and in 1905 AOII Est. 1902
became the twelfth group to join. Today there are 26 women’s fraternities
and sororities national or international in scope, which comprise NPC.
Additionally, over 4.7 million women are represented within the conference.
AOII’s NPC delegates are appointed by the AOII Executive Board. NPC
meets annually to develop policies and procedures regarding all
member groups.

The officers of NPC (Chairman, Vice Chairman, Finance Chairman, Advocacy Chairman, and Panhellenics
Chairman) are members of the delegate body. The Chairman and Vice Chairman serve in an established
order of member organization rotation – first as vice chairman then as chairman, each having two-year
terms. The Finance Chairman, Advocacy Chairman, and Panhellenic Chairman are appointed by the NPC
Board of Directors. Since 1905, two AOII alumnae have served as chairman of the conference: Lillian
McCausland, 1921-23, and Mary Louise Roller, 1967-69. In 2017, Carole Jurenko Jones (Alpha Delta) steps
into the role of NPC Chairman, with Zeta Tau Alpha as Vice Chairman.

On the local level, College Panhellenic Associations are composed of representatives of all the
member groups on a campus. NPC sororities are located on more than 670 campuses. Coordination,
communication, and cooperation in recruitment rules, procedures, and in other phases of college life occur
at Panhellenic meetings. Frequently, college Panhellenics sponsor events that not only help members get
acquainted with each other, but also promote Greek life on the campus and in the community. Your AOII
delegate is elected by your chapter and serves as a member of Leaders’ Council. Additionally, there are
many opportunities for you to be a Panhellenic leader. Talk to your chapter’s Panhellenic Delegate about
the possibilities of becoming involved in Junior Panhellenic, serving on Panhellenic committees, and
running for a Panhellenic office.

Interested in learning more about NPC? Look no further than www.npcwomen.org. Click on
Meet NPC in the upper right hand corner of the main page and then Official Documents
in the left panel to learn what a Unanimous Agreement is and why it is important.

The Promise • 70

NPC Organizations & Their Foundings

Alpha Chi Omega Chi Omega Phi Mu
DePauw U, 1885 U of Arkansas, 1895 Wesleyan College, 1852

Alpha Delta Pi Delta Delta Delta Phi Sigma Sigma
Wesleyan College, 1851 Boston U, 1888 Hunter College, 1913

Alpha Gamma Delta Delta Gamma Pi Beta Phi
Syracuse U, 1904 Lewis School, 1873 Monmouth College, 1867

Alpha Epsilon Phi Delta Phi Epsilon Sigma Delta Tau
Barnard College, 1909 New York U, 1917 Cornell U, 1917

Alpha Omicron Pi Delta Zeta Sigma Kappa
Barnard College, 1897 Miami U, 1902 Colby College, 1874

Alpha Phi Gamma Phi Beta Sigma Sigma Sigma
Syracuse U, 1872 Syracuse U, 1874 Longwood U, 1898

Alpha Sigma Alpha Kappa Alpha Theta Theta Phi Alpha
Longwood U, 1901 DePauw U, 1870 U of Michigan, 1912

Alpha Sigma Tau Kappa Delta Zeta Tau Alpha
Eastern Michigan U, 1899 Longwood U, 1897 Longwood U, 1898

Alpha Xi Delta Kappa Kappa Gamma 71 • Alpha Omicron Pi
Lombard College, 1893 Monmouth College, 1870

Your Campus And AOII

A strong and positive connection between a chapter and the college or university is vital to AOII’s success.
The Object of the Fraternity states our purpose is to “strive for and support the best interest of the colleges
and universities in which chapters are installed.” AOII encourages college loyalty and involvement.
What is your school’s history, and how has AOII made its mark there?

campusInsert a picture of your sisters at a event!

When was your university founded?
______________________________________________________________
What big events does your campus sponsor that you and your sisters
are involved in?
______________________________________________________________

The Promise • 72

What is AOII known for on your campus?
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
How do you plan to stay connected to your campus after graduation?
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________

campus.Insert a picture of your favorite location on

73 • Alpha Omicron Pi

Leading On Campus

Both you and your chapter benefit from your leadership and involvement on campus. Take some time to
show off how you and your chapter are leading at your college or university.

Insert a picture of your sisters here.

______________c__W______a_______mh________e___p_____r___u_e_______s_____w_____l____e__o______a__u_____d___l__d___e________r_y___s_____o__h______u__i___p______l__i____ik___m____e________p___t_____or____o_______s_v______e_e_______e_?__________y_______o________u________r______________ AOII leaders on my campus:
The Promise • 74 ____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
Organizations in which sisters are involved:
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________

chapterInsert a picture of your participating in an event!

What campus awards has your Ht__h___o____r___ow_______u______c_g_____a__h_____n______y___y__o____o___u____u___r_______dc_______ae_____m__m__________p_o______u_n______s_s______t_l_r__e___a____a___t__e__d_______e___A____r___O_s______h__I____I_i_’p___s____?_____v_____a_______l___u_______e_______s____
chapter received? 75 • Alpha Omicron Pi
__________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________

What areas of campus leadership
interest you?
__________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________

A Promise To Lead

In AOII, leadership development is an ongoing goal supported by events and resources for members to
enjoy throughout their lives. Ask yourself the question, “What characteristics do I value most in a leader?”
Take a moment to think of four or five traits you would associate with a leader you would choose to
follow. In their book, The Leadership Challenge, authors Kouzes and Posner asked this question and
compiled their answers into a list of the top twenty responses. After surveying over 70,000 participants,
they narrowed the list to the top four qualities of a leader: honesty, forward-thinking, competence, and
ability to inspire.
Being a leader is a challenge, but as an AOII we know you are up to it! Kouzes and Posner show us five ways
to lead effectively.

Model the Way: As a leader you must decide what your values are. Those values shine through in your
words and actions. It has been said that actions speak louder than words, but for a leader they must be
equal. Practice what you preach!

Inspire a Shared Vision: A leader must look beyond the present and envision the future. In a leadership
position it is essential to create a vision of what could be. It is then your job to excite your team members
and lead the way. Influence others to look past the problem to the solution.

Challenge the Process: After the team is on board with your vision, you must begin with basic goal setting.
Talk realistically about what will work. Don’t be afraid to take risks! New ideas often seem risky, but that
doesn’t mean they are bad.

Enable Others to Act: Encourage collaboration within your team. As the leader, delegation will be a key
to final success. Instill confidence and respect in team members and create a sense of accountability. The
more they feel part of the team, the better their work will be.

The Promise • 76

Encourage the Heart: Congratulate your team on a job well done! Praise them during the process by
pointing out the times they excel. Celebrate all of your team’s accomplishments.

Now armed with all the information, are you ready to lead?

______________________________________________________i____W__n__________________t________h____r____________o____a________________d____t________________u____i________s________c________________ae____________________________n_t___________o________e____________________wy____________________o________________i____u____d________________r____e________________c____a____________h________________y____a____________o________p____________u________t________e____________w________r____________?________o____________________u____________________l_______d_____________________________l________i________k______________e_________________t____o___ Where do you want to lead in the future?
__________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________

Hb_____eo________w____a___________cs_______ta__r______no________n__y______g_o________u___l__e______u__a______s__d____e____e________r__t__h?________e________s_______e___________f_____i___v______e____________s________t___e________p________s__________t_____o_____________________

Reference: Kouzes, J. M., & Posner, B. Z. (2012). The Leadership 77 • Alpha Omicron Pi
Challenge (5th ed.). San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.

Matching Your Leadership

Style To The Situation

There are several types of leadership styles. Matching the style to the audience and situation will ensure
you are as effective as possible as a leader.

Visionary Leader
• Useful when new direction is needed

• H elps clarify goals or destination, but doesn’t specify how to achieve

Coaching Leader “There is room in the
• Designed as one-to-one skill development chapter for the contribution
• N ot successful if deemed as micromanaging tasks of each member and
wise chapter leadership
Authoritative/Autocratic Leader stimulates the
• Provides clear expectations participation of each sister.”
• Makes decisions with little input from others
• C an be effective when lacking time for a group Nancy McCain, Past
International President,
decision process 1957-1959, Rho
• Can be perceived as bossy and alienating to group (Northwestern U)

Democratic/Participative Leader
• L eader guides group but decisions are made

as a group
• Most effective for gaining commitment of group
• More creative results are achieved with this style

Delegative Leader
• M ust be sure members have skills to accomplish tasks

delegated
• Communication is key
• Can result in unclear roles and expectations

To learn more, visit:
http://guides.wsj.com/management/developing-aleadership-style/how-to-develop-a-leadership-style/

The Promise • 78

How can you use the aforementioned styles to adapt to the demands of a
situation you or your chapter is currently facing?
Don’t be afraid to mix it up to adapt to different people and styles!

_______________________________________________________________
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79 • Alpha Omicron Pi

Leading In Your Chapter

Once initiated into Alpha Omicron Pi, you may choose to take on a role as a chapter officer. Examine
your interests, skills, and talents to determine the office best suited for you. Realize that every member
of AOII represents the entire organization and each of us represents AOII as a leader, even if not in an
elected office.

_____t_H_h_______eo____H____w____f__o_u_______wat______u__r____e__rh____e____a__y?______v_o_____e____u________y__i____no________su______p______l__i__e__r____e__d______d____y________to____o____u________lr__e______c__a_____h___d_____a_______ip__n______t____e________r______?____________________iTmhproreusgsheodHa_u___s_oy__t_______owy_a________ou____l____he_u____w____aa_r______s__id_c_t_____h__eo_A________rl_Ot__l__?__he_______I__eg__I_______isi___ra____h_____lt____ea__e_______ap_____y__d__e____e_____ed____a_____r____rys_____s____ho___,_____i_u_wp________r_____h__s__s_____at__k___y__t__i____ll___eol____s_____(f____s__f___i__)__c__?_______e_____H____r_____s__o_________ow_________r____?_____a_________d_______v__isers
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________

“AOII sisterhood to me means being out of my comfort zone and learning
about all the wonderful women in this sorority. They bring out the best of
me and knowing if I fail they will be there for me no matter what.”
Jocelyn Herrera, Theta Iota (California State U San Marcos)

The Promise • 80

“I learned to be a leader and stand up for something greater than myself.
AOII has given me the obvious – sisters to support me and care for me,
philanthropy events to attend and endless leadership opportunities. AOII
never gives up on me and always believes in me.”
Mary Charlotte Leicht, Phi Gamma (Georgia College and State U)

“Without the friends I have made through AOII, I would not have the support
and unconditional love I have today. That love and support has given me the
confidence I lacked before joining AOII. These AOII friendships will truly last a
lifetime and will give me a lifetime of confidence.”
Brooke Stokes, Omega Sigma (Oklahoma State U)

“Through AOII, I have discovered my passion for leadership and for
encouraging others to be the best they can be. When I first became
involved in AOII, I was excited for the socials, sisterhood events and the
t-shirts. While all of those aspects of Greek life are fun, I realized I had
the opportunity to step up to the plate and make a positive impact on
our chapter that could make a difference for years to come. As chapter
president, challenging and encouraging my fellow officers has enriched
my life as I have seen my sisters grow into stronger women.”
Rebecca Jackson, Rho Delta (Samford U)

81 • Alpha Omicron Pi

Managing Conflict

Conflict in group settings is inevitable, but what you as the leader do about the conflict is the game changer.

Below are six steps to follow when confronted with trouble. Naomi Drew, M.A. author of Hope and Healing
states, “Conflicts can’t be solved in the face of hot emotions. Take a step back, breathe deep and gain some

emotional distance before trying to talk things out.”

Steps in Conflict Resolution

Step 1: Cool off.

Step 2: Explain what is bothering you with “I messages.” This approach enables you to take responsibility

for how you perceive the problem and how you feel about it.

Step 3: Each person restates what she understood the other person to say. Agreement on the issue at

hand is a key point in resolving conflict.

Step 4: Take responsibility. Owning the aspects that you can change can keep you from focusing on

blame and allow you to move the conflict to a place of resolution.

Step 5: Brainstorm solutions and come up with one that satisifies both people. Be creative in visioning

multiple options as solutions that are good for all. Compromise is key!

Step 6: Affirm, forgive or thank. Naomi states, “Just saying thank you at the end of a conflict, or

acknowledging the person for working things out sends a message of conciliation and gratitude. We
preserve our relationships this way, strengthening our connections and working through problems that
arise.”

To learn more visit:
http://www.learningpeace.com/pages/conflict_res_guide.html

The Promise • 82

Mentoring
A mentor is a trusted counselor or guide who serves as an
Who are your AOII mentors? adviser or coach and helps another individual. We all have
Who are your mentors outside AOII? the capacity to serve as a mentor to others.
Who have you mentored?
When sought out, mentors are easily found in AOII. For
example, you may develop a close bond with an adviser, a
big sister, or an alumna you meet during your first internship.
Whatever the connection, the common bond you have in
AOII will only strengthen the relationship.

Remember that having a mentor and being a mentor are
equally important. Seek a mentor and then remember to
return the favor! You may just have the wisdom someone
else is seeking!

“Before bid day, I had no idea that a group of women could make me feel so
comfortable and at ease. The time spent with these women allowed for barriers
to be broken, gave each of us a common Ritual to live by, and created a deep-
founded understanding of one another that will last a lifetime.”

Rania Awwad, Zeta Pi (U of Alabama Birmingham)

Want to know 10 tips for getting the most from your mentor? Look to Speak to Me in
Alpha Essentials within Fulfilling the Promise. Try using the advice in your personal and
professional relationships to see how you can mutually benefit from these mentoring
opportunities.

83 • Alpha Omicron Pi

ambitiously

THE COMMITMENT TO SERVICE and a dedication to friendship stand

firmly as the cornerstones of our organization. Founded by women who shared a
strong belief in the importance of offering oneself in service to the greater commu-
nity, our organization’s devotion to serve is one of the key elements we are proud to
embrace as servant leaders today.

“To me, an AOII strives for

her best in the way she

lives her life and serves
others. AOII women leave a

positive impact, no matter

the situation or individual.”

Jill Terry, Phi Upsilon (Purdue U)

Making An Impact

Alpha Omicron Pi was founded on a promise to serve not only one another, but the greater commu-
nity as well. This commitment reflects a philosophy of friendship, concern and usefulness in the world.
The promise to serve can be witnessed in collegiate and alumnae chapters, as members join together
to give emotional and financial support to other sisters through contributions to the AOII Foundation.
In addition, AOIIs exhibit their commitment to be servant leaders as they participate in projects which
raise funds for AOII’s philanthropy, arthritis. Since 1967, AOII has partnered with the Arthritis Foundation
to raise awareness and money to support finding a cure for this debilitating disease.
AOII chapters donate time and resources to countless local community projects and organizations, as
well as to our international philanthropy.

Thank you for making a difference!

Do you know the difference between philanthropy and service ?

Philanthropy benefits an organization or individual through the
donation of money or goods, such as a fundraiser for a local charity.
Organizations or individuals receive support through service when a
volunteer gives time and skills through hands-on interactions, such as
serving food in a soup kitchen.

The Promise • 86

87 • Alpha Omicron Pi

The AOII Foundation

The Alpha Omicron Pi Foundation was established in 1977 to support our Fraternity and maintains
offices located in the AOII International Headquarters building. Since its inception, the AOII Foundation
has contributed over $6 million to philanthropic causes, scholarships and grants that help our sisters
grow in their careers and lives.

The AOII Foundation supports our Fraternity and sisterhood through:

Scholarships: The AOII Foundation awards academic scholarships to deserving collegiate and

alumnae sisters to further their educational goals. These women exhibit academic excellence as well as
dedication to serving the community and Alpha Omicron Pi. Scholarships are awarded from the Diamond
Jubilee Endowment as well as several named scholarship funds established by generous donors.
March 1 is the deadline to apply.

Since 1962, more than 1,500 scholarships have been granted through the AOII Foundation. For the 2017-
2018 academic year, $230,050 was awarded in scholarships. Talk with your Vice President of Academic
Development about how to apply for a Foundation scholarship.

Education and Leadership grants: Educational grants awarded by the Foundation to the

Fraternity ensure Alpha Omicron Pi will remain a leader among women’s fraternal organizations and for
each member to have an exceptional membership experience. These grants, supported through donor
contributions to our unrestricted fund, the Loyalty Fund, and investment income from the Endowment
Fund, are awarded to the Fraternity annually, based on program plans for the next year. Educational
Leadership Consultants (ELCs) and Leadership Academy are both programs the Foundation has provided
assistance to through educational grants.

Arthritis Foundation grants: Since 1967, AOIIs have raised funds for the Arthritis Foundation and

donated through the AOII Foundation to support the mission of conquering arthritis once and for all. Through
Strike Out Arthritis! events, Walk to Cure Arthritis, and member contributions, the AOII Foundation helps fund
arthritis research and educational grants.

More than $4.5 million has been raised by AOIIs for Arthritis Foundation Grants.

Ruby Fund grants: “Above all, we wanted a high and active special purpose to justify existence

and a simple devotion to some worthy end.” Stella George Stern Perry said these powerful words when
creating Alpha Omicron Pi Fraternity. The Ruby Fund’s purpose is just that – devotion to a worthy cause;
and its first recipient, fittingly, was Stella.

The Ruby Fund provides assistance to Alpha Omicron Pi members who are facing serious health issues,
unforeseen financial conditions, natural disasters, and other forms of crises. Since 1946, AOII’s Ruby Fund
has assisted over 390 sisters in need.

The Promise • 88

How Can You Support The
AOII Foundation?

There are four designated funds your gift can support:
• Scholarship: provides academic financial assistance to members
• Endowment: supports the Fraternity for leadership and educational programming
• Arthritis Fund: supports the programs and research of the Arthritis Foundation
• Ruby Fund: assists sisters in dire financial need

Gifts can also go where they are needed most by supporting the Loyalty Fund. The Loyalty Fund is
designed exclusively for unrestricted giving and supports the other four designated funds. Unrestricted
giving to the Loyalty Fund is an important resource which allows the Foundation to best serve the needs
of the Fraternity.

Begin Your Promise to Serve!

You can begin to support our sisterhood right now with a monthly gift
of just $5!
Just think, if 20 sisters gave $5 per month, your gifts could fund the
administration of:
• 4 collegiate women to attend Leadership Academy
• 1 Academic Scholarship Award
• 20% of a Ruby Fund Grant
• 3 trained Foundation Young Alumnae Council Members
We challenge you to give up one cup of coffee per month to support our sisterhood. Email
[email protected] to sign-up for monthly giving today!

89 • Alpha Omicron Pi

Strike Out Arthritis!

Alpha Omicron Pi’s signature fundraising campaign, “Strike Out Arthritis!” was created in 2001 as a
platform for members and chapters to raise money for arthritis research, awareness and education.
AOII collegiate and alumnae chapters across the United States and Canada hold Strike Out Arthritis!
events on their campuses and in their communities. Chapter events have included whiffle ball
tournaments, volleyball matches, basketball games, barbeques, benefit concerts and much more.
AOII Fraternity also holds fundraising events with professional baseball teams each year in addition
to the hundreds of events being held by AOII chapters. Together, we have raised millions of dollars
for arthritis and continue supporting the search for a cure!

The Promise • 90

91 • Alpha Omicron Pi

AOII and Arthritis

Arthritis is the number one cause of disability in both the United States and Canada. As an international
organization spanning across North America, Alpha Omicron Pi members and chapters are proud to
support the efforts of two leading organizations in the fight against arthritis – the Arthritis Foundation in the
United States and the Arthritis Society in Canada. In addition to raising money with AOII’s own Strike Out
Arthritis! campaign, our members participate in signature Arthritis Foundation and Arthritis Society events
that also raise money for this important cause. AOIIs serve as volunteers for these two organizations,
giving their time on event planning committees, at juvenile arthritis camps and programs, and on site at
fundraising events, among many other roles.

Arthritis Foundation

The Arthritis Foundation is the “Champion of Yes” and helps the arthritis community conquer everyday
battles through life-changing information and resources, access to optimal care, and advancements
in science and community connections. The Arthritis Foundation’s annual Walk to Cure Arthritis in
the spring and the Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis in the winter are its signature fundraising events.
AOII is proud to have a national “Team AOII” that spans each event series in cities across the U.S. and
encompasses hundreds of AOII collegiate and alumnae chapter teams. While many people believe
arthritis is an “old person’s” disease, arthritis also greatly impacts children. To provide support and
education for the juvenile arthritis community, the Arthritis Foundation hosts an annual Juvenile Arthritis
Conference for children and their families to come together.

The Promise • 92

Arthritis Society

The Arthritis Society is the only charitable organization in Canada uniquely dedicated to funding and
promoting arthritis research, advocacy and solutions to improve the quality of life for Canadians affected
by arthritis. With branches that span across Canada, each division hosts signature fundraising events
such as the Jingle Bell Walk & Run and the national Walk to Fight Arthritis,
where funds are raised to promote educational
programming and arthritis research. AOII
collegiate and alumnae chapters participate in
Arthritis Society events annually and collaborate
with Arthritis Society staff and volunteers to
serve as advocates for the cause.

The Arthritis Society offers several resources and
learning opportunities both for those with and
without arthritis. Their educational workshops
cover a wide variety of topics, from the different
types of arthritis to specific learning areas such
as chronic pain and learning how to engage in
functional activity while living with arthritis, like
gardening, exercising, and other
daily activities.

93 • Alpha Omicron Pi

A Promise To Serve

AOII believes in giving back to the communities that give so much to us. Our chapters are often known for
the amount of time they give through community service days.

As a Fraternity, AOII collects stuffed pandas each summer at our Leadership Institute or Convention.
At these events, AOII collegians and alumnae come together from across North America and are
encouraged to bring a panda to donate to our collection. AOII and Arthritis Foundation staff and
volunteers distribute the pandas, later that summer at the annual Juvenile Arthritis Conference, to
hundreds of children who are affected by juvenile arthritis. The pandas provide comfort to the children at
the conference, and represent AOII as a partner in the fight against arthritis.

“Living by AOII’s values has shaped me by teaching me how to love
and serve my fellow sisters as well as my community as a whole before
anything else. AOII’s values shine through simple acts of love like
taking a sister out for ice cream after her bad day, going to volunteer
at the local animal shelter, or serving your chapter. When a sister truly
portrays the values of AOII, she is also
representing the values that our
Founders set for us and sharing the
love of this Fraternity to everyone
around her each and everyday.”

Lauren Gerkins, Alpha Chi (Western
Kentucky U)

The Promise • 94

Understanding Arthritis
The term arthritis includes more than 100 related conditions, ranging from relatively mild forms of tendinitis
and bursitis to crippling forms such as rheumatoid arthritis. People of all ages can have arthritis. Though
commonly associated with aging adults, even babies and young children can be affected.
Common arthritis symptons include pain, swelling, stiffness
and decreased range of motion, though symptoms may not
always be present and may vary from mild to moderate to
severe. It is often assumed that arthritis affects the joints, but
it can also affect the heart, eyes, lungs, kidneys and skin.

Some types of arthritis include: Someone I know who has arthritis is:
_________n_I_____et____h__s____i_s_n______kf___o_____i_r__t__’___as_____r__i_t_m___h______rp___i__t_o__i___s__r__t____ba______ne______tc_____at___o__u______s_r___a_e_____i_:_s_____e_________a______w_______a______r___e______-______
• Degenerative Arthritis: Osteoarthritis is the most
common kind of arthritis. It occurs when the cartilage
wears away and bone rubs against bone, causing pain,
swelling and stiffness.

• Inflammatory Arthritis: Rheumatoid and psoriatic
arthritis are examples of inflammatory arthritis, which
occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks joints
with uncontrolled inflammation, potentially causing joint
erosion and damage to other organs. Early diagnosis and
agressive treatment can help minimize or even prevent
permanent joint damage.

• Infectious Arthritis: A bacterium, virus or fungus can
enter a joint and trigger inflammation. Timely treament with
antibiotics may clear the joint infection, but sometimes the
arthritis becomes chronic.

• Metabolic Arthritis: Gout can be the result when uric acid
builds up and forms needle-like crystals in the joint, resulting
in sudden spikes of extreme joint pain. It can come and go in
episodes or, if uric acid levels are not reduced, it can become
chronic, leading to ongoing pain and disability.

Take a look at www.arthritis.org to learn more about the different types of joint diseases,
how to prevent arthritis, and what resources are available to those living with arthritis. The
YES tool mobile app gives personalized exercise modifications to individual’s experiencing
arthritis pain. Download it on any app store to discover how the tool is helping people with
arthritis increase their fitness levels.

95 • Alpha Omicron Pi

How Does Your

Chapter Give?

Take some time to journal all of the wonderful ways your chapter gives back. These memories will serve as a
reminder of the impact you had on your campus and community for years to come.

Giving back with my sisters! A___O________I___I________s________e_________r____v________e_________s___________m_____________y____________c________a_________m____________p__________u________s____________b__________y_______:___________________________________

___________A__A______O__f____t____eI___I____r__t___h__c_____r_o___o____l___lu__e_____g__g_____h__e_____:__,______I______w_________o________u______l___d__________l___i___k______e__________t____o__________s______e_______r____v______e______________ Serving our community
The Promise • 96

Helping others together Tp____h_h______r__i_____ol____a_______u____n_______g____t____h___h________r_______om___________p_______y____y_________p______a_____a______n_____r_____d_t_____i____c_______s____i_____pe___________ar______v__t_______ii____oc_________e__n________________Ii____n_____l____e___________a___________r_____n__________e___________d___________:________________________________________

M_____Iy______c_____If____a__a___g______n_v______a_____o_____c_v______r____oe___i_____t____n__e____b_____t______i_a__w__n_______c____u__a____k______e_y__________t______wh_g___________r_i___e__v_o_________i___u__ng__________g__ga__________h__v______b____e_____m___a_________b_c_____y______ka_________u___c____b_____n_k______y_____i____v__w:_________e______a______r______ss_________:_i_____t______y________________b____________y_______________p_____________a___________r________t______i____c___________i____p____________a____________t______i_____n____________g________________i_____n____________:________________________________________________________ My chapter’s signature “Strike Out Arthritis!”
event was:
__________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________

We spread awareness for arthritis by:
__________________________________
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97 • Alpha Omicron Pi

Service To The Fraternity

We must remember it is not only service to others, but also service to the Fraternity that gives us so much.
Service is at the heart of those members
who volunteer their time and energy on
behalf of the Fraternity. Local advisers
assist collegiate chapters in creating an
exceptional experience of sisterhood for
collegiate members of AOII. Alumnae
members continue this tradition by
taking leadership roles within the
alumnae chapters.
You have learned about the dedicated
women serving internationally. All of
our volunteers give their time selflessly
to AOII. There are many ways to get
involved post-college. Remember, you
get out of AOII what you give!

The Promise • 98

Service As A Volunteer

AOII’s commitment to serve goes beyond serving others-it is also about serving the Fraternity! You
learned in the Lead section of this book about the various leaders who volunteer for AOII. The
opportunities to give back to the Fraternity are endless and the rewards are great. Be sure to show
appreciation for all our volunteers do. One day soon you will have the wonderful opportunity to join
them in supporting and celebrating our sisterhood as an alumnae member.
To learn more about these opportunities review the position descriptions on the Fullfilling the Promise
Officer Resource Library.

“As AOIIs, we recognize others for
their achievements and encourage
one another to exceed the
expectation. We laugh, celebrate
and support each other on a daily
basis. ”
Rebecca Smith, Epsilon Omega
(Eastern Kentucky U)

Check out Why I Volunteer, found in Speak to Me in Alpha Essentials on Fulflilling the Promise,
to read about one alumna’s journey through her various volunteer roles since graduation.
Afterward, ask your advisers why they volunteer for AOII too.

99 • Alpha Omicron Pi

My Chapter,
My Sisters,

My Promise