Search

Changes to the Triennial Elections Process were recently announced. Based on recommendations made by the Election Review Process Team, Executive Council approved bylaw changes to the existing process. Nominating Committee Members were also recently appointed: Committee Chair Chair Allison Swift-Duttine, Psi–Marshall University Beth Deines, Beta Kappa–Arizona State University Erin Donkersloot, Pi–Emporia State University Rachel Greene, Beta Epsilon–Western Illinois University Mia Scalamogna, Gamma Zeta–Slippery Rock University Sarah Turner, Alpha Alpha–Concord University Karen Varga-Sinka, Epsilon Tau–Saint Leo University   The Nominating Committee is charged with the responsibility to strategically identify, evaluate, and provide a report to the membership for the Executive Council leadership of Sigma Sigma Sigma. As referenced in the May issue of The Path Forward , changes to the Triennial Elections Process were made based on recommendations by the Election Review Process Team and were prompted b ased on delegate feedback from the 2022 National Convention.   After 12 months of extensive research, interviews, and documentation review, the Election Process Review Team—led by Past National President Kaye Schendel— provided their report and recommendation for updated processes surrounding the triennial election of Tri Sigma’s Executive Council. The EPR Team was charged to explore and recommend an option for a more streamlined and efficient elections process that allows for more delegates to participate, remove the financial barrier to voting by limiting it to delegates who can afford to attend Convention, better align with Tri Sigma’s board governance model, and allow for a greater transition period of leadership for the incoming Executive Council. “The underpinning of our work is the staunch belief that one of the most important responsibilities of membership is electing our future leadership,” said Kaye Schendel. The recommended plan will use Rank Choice Voting, a nonpartisan voting model in which voters rank candidates by preference. It allows for more representation and promotes greater diversity, equity and inclusion. Rank Choice Voting ensures majority cohesion in elections and allows for multiple qualified candidates on the ballot.   As part of the team’s recommendation and report, the committee created a timeline for the elections process, an application and recommendation form for EC service, an elections handbook, and a comprehensive Nominating Committee manual with interview questions and rubrics for scoring applicants. Executive Council has approved the team’s recommendations and bylaw changes. Voting will take place prior to Convention to ensure a seamless transition of power.  The amended bylaws will be on the business agenda to be ratified at Convention in St. Louis next summer. “After 12 months of research and reviewing so many options—we truly believe this to be the fairest and most just election process for our organization,” said Kaye. Special thanks to the ERP Team for their work: Chair Kaye Schutte Schendel, Co-Chair Tara Benson, Liz Wakeman Hoffert, Susie Fink Kuhn, Cara Luyster, Jill Carlson Schmidt, and Laura Ward Sweet. National President Joyce O’Daniel served as a non-voting Executive Council liaison and Jenna Martin Pendry served as a non-voting staff liaison. A Conversations with Council call will be held Monday, Sept. 30 at 8 p.m. ET to review the qualifications, expectations, and responsibilities of leading the organization. Members interested in applying to serve on the 2025-28 Executive Council are encouraged to attend. Click here to register.   If you’re a member and didn’t receive the most recent issue of The Path Forward, log into Sigma Connect to ensure you are opted into receive General Announcements.

Collegiate members who maintain a 4.0 GPA for two consecutive semesters are honored with a sterling silver scholarship ring. We are thrilled to recognize the 99 members who achieved this milestone during the 2023-24 academic year! Alpha–Longwood University Makayla Lewis Alpha Beta–Kent State University Jordyn Goldstein Katelyn Pepper Alpha Chi–Murray State University Jade Christy Lacey Cruse Virginia Hardy Katelyn Heaton Isabella Kuhl Alyssa Luse Allison Zinobile Alpha Epsilon–Northwest Missouri State University Abigail Baker Lauren Kohl Julianna Marshall Molly Renshaw Samantha Steinke Alpha Iota–Northeastern State University Kailey Farris Ashley Livingston Julia Paden Riley Schuler Chelbie Turtle Alpha Mu–University of Louisiana at Lafayette Allie Bossier Maelin Crum Erin Fontenot Jami Lombardo Bailey Melancon Lindsey Trahan Alpha Zeta–Northwestern State University Brea Baca-White Avari Cain Makynli Delcambre Tatum Waites Beta Delta–Shepherd University Katie Keckler Leah Shaw Beta Mu–University of Central Oklahoma Samantha Colasanti Veronica Cook Ciara Gawronski Kylie Weldon Chi–Pittsburg State University Jaiden Smith Delta Chi–University of Virginia Caroline McGuinness Emma Nardone Sarah Sarzier Delta Zeta–Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania Alexis Jones Areona McFarlin Epsilon Gamma–Grand Valley State University Madison Moore Epsilon Rho–Minnesota State University-Mankato Great Lampe Autumn Manni Eta Kappa–Texas Woman’s University Madison Lussier Eta Lambda–Moravian College Georgina Skoutelas Eta Nu–Ramapo College of New Jersey Leah Goldblatt Eta Omicron–Sam Houston State University Caidyn Frederick Caroline Worchesik Eta Rho–Georgia Southern University Armstrong Campus Kairi Balow Eta Theta–Gustavus Adolphus College Mary Davenport Emma Kelsey Rakiah Swenson Eta Xi–Ursinus College Mackenzie Donatelli Alexandra Nenish Brenna Snively Ellie Teklits Eta Zeta–University of Alaska-Anchorage Victoria Duggan Marilynn Nashalook Gamma Beta–East Carolina University Kathryn Frizzle Mary Porter Gamma Mu–Southeastern Louisiana University Kylie Baudean Blair St. Germain Reagan St. Germain Alexis Thibodeaux Omicron–Eastern Michigan University Megan Monette Ashlyn Stager Pi–Emporia State University Emma Titus Theta Delta–Lindenwood University Anna Borchert Brooke Brennell Olivia Knopfel Sarah Marian Lauren Roberts Kathryn Rorie Kayla Rorie Jenna Sessa Ally Sprague Abigail Thompson Keyaira Wilkerson Katelynn Zucco Theta Iota–Auburn University Jillian Byers Madeleine Cargile Andrea D’Amico MacKenzie Depwe Margo Flores Molly Martini Sana Montague Reagan Moore Sara Perkins Kaitlyn Stocum Theta Kappa–University of Wisconsin-La Crosse Lauren Kranz Theta Zeta–Case Western Reserve University Elaina Bancroft Kate Hughs-Baird Grace Lee Maria Lindquist Jenna Purslow Annie Ratliff Zeta Kappa– Montclair State University Juliana Abbaticola

Tri Sigma is proud to recognize those who have reached 75 years of membership in our sorority. These members exemplify a lifetime of sisterhood, loyalty, and dedication to our values. Alpha–Longwood University Eloise Stancell Godsey Mary Morris Slaughter Anne Haskins Tucker Virginia Guy Yonce Alpha Alpha–Concord University Marguerite Hinty Brown Norma Lindley Hall Araminta Hale Johnston Annabelle Laing Mary Burgess Morgan Margaret Ann Murphy Florence Ellison Newland Gertrude Crute Snidow Alice Dawson Ward Alpha Beta–Kent State University Carol Fenton Burkholder Isobel Shively Edgerton Janet Irons Mountford Alpha Chi–Murray State University Maxine C. Bell Benn Arnold Butterworth LaVerne Clapp Patty Sue Clopton Martha Sue Crosby Veda Hallam Etheridge Violet Blackwell Evans Mary Bottom Gresham Ann Owen Kuhn Rosemary Legeay Mary Stokes Russell Evelyn Dawson Stockley Joy Bennett Wernet Alpha Delta–Drexel University Mary Long Bowden Carolynn Cramer Mabel Trout Dashiell Rosemary Leonard Driscoll Lorna Pratt Grentzenberg Helen Marie Cummings Hamilton Marcia Chambers Herrick Betsy MacGarrigle Holland Lorene Holland June Gemmill Kauffman Harriette McLean Kenworthy Vivian Datz Lowry Mildred Tombler Lynch Loretta Rauch Shirley Goss Reese Muriel Tedrow Reihl Kathryn P. Stratton Anne Swingler Juanita Conroy Williams Alpha Epsilon–Northwest Missouri State University Joyce Gunderson Anderson Meredee Myers Baade Joan Miller Freeman Esther Marguerite Gasper Mary Osborn Hamilton Judy Harper Jennings Margaret Wade Long Betty Jean Martin Irene Whitmore Renshaw Iris Wehrli Scott Naomi McQuate White Alpha Gamma–Fort Hays State University Gertrude Durbus Miller Alpha Iota–Northeastern State University Susan Fox Brennan Betty Neumeyer Carlow Mary Moran Haggard Carolyn Williams Hall Brookie Fink Maycher Virginia Rutherford Robinson Alpha Lambda–Harris-Stowe State University Audry Westerholt Behr Martha Patricia Cronin Jean Riedmeyer Gregory Gloria Althoff McNamara Lee Luedde Moeller Junanita Monken Ostendorf Bernadine Engelbrecht Taylor Virginia Winter-Moellenhoff June Rock Witzl Alpha Mu–University of Louisiana at Lafayette Gloria Marquette Arboneaux Mary De La Rue Beyer Fleta Hollier Boagni Christine McCorkle Crochet Helen Wainwright Domingue Judith Mouton Hebert Mona Hemphill Hollier Willanna Edwards James Mary Ellen McEniry Norma Overbey Meyers Lucy Miller Vincent Dorothy Claire White Gloria Landry Wiggins Alpha Nu–Southern Illinois University Carbondale Patricia Ashley Akin Betty Keller Casper Pauline Rose Crader Billie Landers Criminger Elaine Dassing Evers Marian Keooghan Gilpin Betty Maddex Goddard Margaret Wilburn Henderson Essie Wogmon Herrell Lois Pierce Hewitt Doris Van Buskirk Hooper Geraldine Coale Howden Margaret Easton Joliff M. Lorraine Carrington Koets Elmer Barnes McCarty Mary Meyers Miller Bette Stader Mulligan Helen Palmer Nelson Peggy Adams Orsborn Laline Lord Oser Josephine Vickers Paulson Ethel Doelling Peters Wanda Conrad Pirtle Cecilia Brush Ringhofer Iva Sichling Rogers Mary McDowell Rogers Patricia Parks Sitter Elta Willms Smith Sofia Constance Theofanopoulos Janis Marion Wilhelm Alpha Omicron–University of Central Arkansas Ruby Galloway Farish Mary Leslie Fitzgibbon Callie King Goodwin Billy Rhodes Henry Calla Harper Rainbolt Julia Hogg Roach Ida Redman Smith Patricia Henigan Threet Alpha Phi–Central Michigan University Marjorie A. Janson Jane VanDerbeck Park Patricia Slaughter Juanita DeMott Vogelsberg Marilyn LePard Wardrop Sally Carnahan Weisenburger Alpha Pi–PennWest Clarion Betty Underwood Boyer Jean Blake Ferguson Joyce Simpson Lignelli Ann Carrier Mayo Norma Bloom Siar Bertha Thompson Wallace Alpha Psi–Eastern Illinois University Patsy Mason Benge Alpha Psi–Eastern Illinois University Betty Jane Boley Eloise Crouse Favis Cleora Creviston Fitzgerald Shirley Middlesworth Hill Barbara Ringo Knott Emma Catherine McQueen Arlene Swearingen Muthersbough Ariel Bowman Stuckey Harriet Kinney Watts Alpha Rho–Lock Haven University Mary Raymond English Sara Zubler Frazier Mary Curran Loughran Mary Jane Marschik Mary King Pierce M. Louise Stabler Alpha Tau–University of the District of Columbia Alberta Lockhead Lasham Marjorie Wedding Sumner Edith Fraser Weinrich Alpha Theta–Radford University Alice Sykes Barnett Sara Porterfield Eades Marie Gilliland Flanagan Jacqueline McFall Hartman Peggy Wood Hughson Eva Phipps Kelly Doris Hoy Kinzie Mary Jessee Kiser Ada Morgan Mona Jean Morse Jane Painter Wall Alpha Upsilon–James Madison University Alice Sherman Bovee Evelyn Fosnight Burke Mildred Burford Clarke Margaret Paret Duncan Anne Petticrew Elliott Dorothy Sutton Gardner Virginia Dodd Good Helen McCue Goodykoontz Helen Gibson Gunter Jo Ann Johnson Halpert Olive James Hawkins Barbara Conrad Larcombe Velva Shumate Love Harriette Thomas McGinnis Shirley Elliott Moberg Marjorie Schultz Pierce Margaret Grimes Powell Phyllis Leach Terry Alpha Xi–University of Wisconsin–Whitewater Priscilla McKewan Curran Georgia Vannie Hess Sally Fenner Johnson Helen Kratzat Reinholz Magdalene Gaveras Wos Alpha Zeta–Northwestern State University Marian Cocke Claire Courtney Landry Alice Elizabeth Martin Carmen Courtney McNabb Rowena Taliaferro Merryman Doris Ott Virginia Loraine Paul Mary Lee Sigler Posey Beta Alpha–Northern Illinois University Jane Groves Bastian Natalie Chapman Calhoun Mary Jane Zurick DeCamp Dorothy Poole Dill L. Ione Babcox Elmendorf Jean Coleman Erickson Mary Wagner Hill Beverly Vose Kelton Virginia Dailey Kilburn Harriet Wedberg Kinnealy Muriel Mapes LaVanne Leatrice Banks Lees Shirley Jahn Milburn Janet Fisk Neill Bettie Ringberg O'Neal Bonnie Peterson Prentice Mary Sanders Ryan Janet Glueck Sack Evelyn Eames Warn Beta Beta–Missouri State University Bonnie Jean Alexander Beryldene Bryson Appleby Martha Foster Applequist Margret Thomas Beazley Wanda Overby Beyers Adelaide Tarleton Bryant Jean Clarke Drumwright Olive Schmid Gleason Betty Jane Goodman Louanna Gray Harriette Davis Hoppe Harriett Sherer Hutchens Connie Whipple Jones Shirley Blair Lovell Virginia Baker Malloy Bettie June Matlock Wilda Jones Mitchell Gladys Wickizer Moon Doris Crews Newman Emily Scott O'Reilly Virginia Lewis Rittenhouse Gloria Warren Smith Emma Lou Burns Thraen Bobbie Sanford Webb Billie McKenzie White Beta Delta–Shepherd University Elizabeth Cockrill Baechtel Dorothy Lee Cox Nancy Miller Dieudonne Mary Hartzell Dobbins Anne Hardesty Driver Pauline Eva LaLonde Harriet Virginia Leach Frances Virginia Lewis Rosemary Lyne Frances Trimble Miller Jeanne Myers Price Helen McKee Simpson Marion Myers Skinner Mary Cecelia Sullivan Jane Alther Troupe Margaret Eleanor Whitmore Beta Gamma–Ball State University Bronna Montgomery Boling Ellamae Owens Bowers Joan Touby Coburn Ellen Riley Cole Annabel Shafer Conn Lenore M. Cupp Betty Rothhaar Edsall Ethel Jane Gantz Doris Ann Hasler Florence Curtis Jones Elsin Tillett Kimmons Patricia Joan Mauller Norma Love Milhollin Doris Morris Miller Mary Sheets Myers Norma Barber Plank Carol Brouse Salvers Helen Bales Sheppard Eleanor Cecil Socin Betty Resler Thalls Chi–Pittsburg State University Norma Hinton Agnew Nancy Horton Bowlus Donna Panknin Denton Wanda Lee Ferguson Hickman Margaret Kenney Klump Dorothy Hammick Mills Janet Peck Morris Patricia Todd Orey Rogene Nordstedt Penny Ann Alexander Reed Mary LeRoy Stice Dorothy Simion Sullinger Lambda–Indiana University of Pennsylvania Thelma Thomas Baird Ruth Rhea Boyd Eleanor Marie Derabasse Margorie Lawson Hill Mary Ann Master Maryann Swisher Mitchell Joanna Joseph Welton Mu–Truman State University Mary Dawdy Bethel Doris McClanahan Biggerstaff Elsie Sutton Brown Betty Stinson Elliott Corrine Henrietta Gilbert Louise O'Reilly Jolene Underhill Pink Elizabeth Hamilton Schnackel Janey Penwell Townsley Mary Elizabeth Willey Nu–University of Central Missouri Alice Searfoss Allen Annette Clatworthy Baker June Frame Carr Lenora Damron Cramer Anna Lewis Dennis Virginia Cross Eddleman Jean Minert Green Betty Feagans Jennison Margaret Mudd Jost Katherine Hall Kramer Billie Stewart McCracken Patricia Wilkinson Schmidt Omicron–Eastern Michigan University Doris Kays Kraushaar Eloise D. Sievert Patricia Pretty Streat Pi–Emporia State University Norma Lewis Bletscher June Crawford Byrd Grace Thresher Davis Imogene Richards Flott Jeanne Belting Juhlin Shirley McNichol Kroeger Laura Kuhlmann McAntee Treva Mallary McCandless Betty McKenney Palmer Dorothy Dale Phelps Arlie Crabb Riggs Psi–Marshall University Mary Dandelet Austin Edna Wood Bing Betty Dunn Bucko Joan Whitley Cole Helen Dandelet Jewel Mullens Frazier Ann Clark Holt Virginia Caviness Houchins Carolyn Law Lanham-Mahs Rebecca Satterwhite McComas Phyllis Schumaker McKenzie Elizabeth Lyon Miller Mabel Heaton Patterson Virginia Broaddus Ray Ann Loy Robbins Constance Barrett Sauer Jo Anne Shivel Shively Betty Blair Slack Betty McGrew Stenhouse Carolyn Reed Templeton Beverly Wegwart Trowbridge Claire Brewer Verwer Ruth Kimberling Winters Agnes Keesee Woods Sigma–Western Colorado University Jean Marshall Baldwin Katherine Sievers Boyd Lucile Roe Cayler Dorothy Dutemeyer Doris Lucero Fresques Genevieve Miller O'Halloran Lillian Runyon Peth Tau–New Mexico Highlands University Margie Ladd Ingram Upsilon–East Central University Stella Rose Chowins Thelma Fidler Gance Helen Louise Laird Evelyn Louise Lewis Carolyn Miller Lela Mae Shipley Xi–Northwestern State Obera Maedgen Brown Dorothy Lee Chalmers Juanita Pahl Frost Mary Ellen Lindley Lois Toner Rust Zeta–SUNY Buffalo Wanda Elenor Beiling Dorothy Ann Butler Wilma Kuney Fargo Hilda Day Fitch Patricia Mary McGinty Dorothy Hare Neal Mary Joan O'Connell Mary Hollands Provin Barbara Wilson Rauth Margaret Engelmann Robson Barbara Baumer Seamon Janet Forbes Snyder Shirley MacLochlon Walsh Rita Longo Zalewski If you know of a member who has entered Omega Chapter, please use our contact form to notify NHQ.

Tri Sigma is pleased to announce the re-installation of its Zeta Chi Chapter at Coastal Carolina University in Conway, South Carolina, and the initiation of its newest members. Following the installation, alumnae, NHQ staff, parents, friends, and members of the fraternity/sorority community were invited to attend a celebratory brunch at a suite inside Brooks Stadium. Dr. Yvonne Hernandez-Friedman, Vice President for Student Affairs, shared greetings on behalf of the university. The chapter received nearly 50 well-wishes from collegians and alumnae from all over the country, and many were read aloud during the brunch. Before chapter officers were presented by Chapter President Brooke Knight, National President Joyce O’Daniel shared remarks on behalf of Executive Council and presented the chapter with its charter. “The decision to return to CCU wasn't made lightly, but it was made with absolute conviction. We saw in this campus what we've always known: a vibrant community where Tri Sigma values can flourish and where our sisterhood can make a meaningful impact,” O’Daniel said. “As you build your community here at Coastal Carolina, know that you're not just creating your own experience; you're creating opportunities for future generations of women who will follow in your footsteps.” The chapter will continue to informally recruit members throughout the spring semester and fully participate in primary recruitment in fall 2025. CCU students interested in joining Tri Sigma can learn more about the chapter at jointrisigma.com .  Additional information about the installation celebration can be found in the upcoming of The Triangle .

Throughout the past few years, Tri Sigma has provided updates on the member needs and opportunities revealed in the 2021 Membership Assessment and its impact on our strategic plan. Based on those who participated, 38% of alumnae were still engaged because of lifelong learning and personal development opportunities received through Tri Sigma. Additionally, 53% felt programming outcomes met their needs, and 60% believed Tri Sigma helped prepare them to succeed after college. As such, Tri Sigma NHQ has merged its information technology and programming staff to create the Enablement Department. Led by Associate Executive Director of Enablement Lorin Phillips, Alpha Upsilon, the new department is responsible for creating, developing, delivering, and evolving programs that enhance productivity, streamline processes, and provide programming and development opportunities, training and onboarding, and more. An advisory team was also created to help inform this work. A Member-Development-Framework was created that aims to develop member affinity through fulfilling experiences. It will include the following for the 2023−24 academic year: Updated new member workbooks and the implementation and training of New Member Orientation Leaders. Downloadable member transcripts outlining completed educational offerings and study skills certification. These can be used to supplement a resume or describe competencies within the context of an employment interview. A chapter-led Member Success Series for collegiate chapters, as well as reimagined Virtual Leadership Symposiums offering joint collegiate/alumnae learning experiences like the recent offering featuring Dr. Mari Ann Callais which received rave reviews. Expanded health promotion programming that extends beyond traditional harm prevention and mental wellbeing. Additions include education surrounding building inclusive communities, prescription drug misuse, and CannabisEDU. Collegiate debrief guides to accompany required chapter-wide learning to provide an opportunity for relationship-building, member discussion and guided consideration on applying the content to personal, academic, and professional environments. An enhanced catalog of opportunities in Essential Sigma, including onboarding for new endeavors such as New Member Orientation, Alumnae and Collegiate Chapter Leader Training & Transition, and national volunteer and C.A.B. service. Regional in-person collegiate officer experiences will begin in 2025. The department hopes to expand offerings over the next three years to include additional certificate programs, expanded onboarding and training, and more virtual and in-person opportunities aimed at promoting leadership development and member success.   All Tri Sigma members already have access to a variety of engaging opportunities and learning modules in Essential Sigma. This resource-rich library caters to the educational needs of collegians, alumnae, and volunteers alike, empowering them to enhance their knowledge and skills. Learn more by logging into Sigma Connect » Essential Sigma.

The Tri Sigma Foundation is pleased to announce Shelly Brajkovich Bateman, Beta Epsilon–Western Illinois University, has been named its Executive Director. She will lead the Foundation’s mission of funding an exceptional Tri Sigma member experience through leadership development and programming, scholarships to offset the rising cost of higher education, grants for cutting-edge children’s therapy, and partnership with the March of Dimes. Shelly brings with her more than 20 years of fundraising and non-profit management experience. She most recently served as the Associate Executive Director of the Illinois Association of School Boards. Prior to that, she served for nearly 10 years at March of Dimes within public policy and governmental affairs. “In addition to extensive non-profit experience and strong fundraising and community relations acumen, Shelly brings with her strategic leadership and a passion for Tri Sigma,” said JeanMarie Komyathy, chair of the Foundation’s board of directors. “I am thrilled to welcome her to the Foundation, and I am confident the organization will thrive under her leadership.” Over the next three years, Bateman’s leadership will be crucial as the Tri Sigma Foundation’s strategic focus will focus on providing opportunities for members to financially support an exceptional member experience through increased fundraising and relationship development efforts. Additionally, the Tri Sigma Foundation will prioritize growing the human and financial resources needed to strengthening Tri Sigma now and in the future. “I am honored to have been selected as the Executive Director and use my skills and experience to lead an organization that provides amazing resources to support and empower the initiatives of Sigma Sigma Sigma,” Bateman said. “Tri Sigma has been a meaningful part of my life for many years, and I am deeply committed to our continued growth, innovation and ever-forward progress.” Shelly has served Tri Sigma as a volunteer in various capacities, including the Tri Sigma Foundation Board of Directors. Her previous volunteer roles as Recruitment and Essential Sigma Advisor, Dunham Women of Character Education Advocate, and March of Dimes Committee Chair have uniquely positioned her to better understand the impact of Tri Sigma’s mission. Born and raised in the Chicagoland-area, she currently resides in Springfield, Illinois, with her husband, Tony, their two children Mariah and Jameson, and bonus daughter Zoe. Shelly holds a master’s degree in business administration from Louisiana State University-Shreveport and a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Western Illinois University.  She begins her new role on October 17.

Tri Sigma is proud to recognize exceptional members and chapters during the 2023 calendar year as a part of its annual awards program. The annual awards program celebrates the accomplishments of collegiate chapters, alumnae chapters and individual members during the past calendar year. Chapter award categories highlight the connection between excellent operations and sisterhood while individual award categories recognize outstanding leadership within Tri Sigma and the local community. The following 2023 award recipients have created a legacy of excellence, hard work, and are stellar examples of a values-focused commitment to Tri Sigma and their communities. COLLEGIATE CHAPTER AWARDS Collegiate Chapter of the Year: Alpha Chi–Murray State University Chapter Advisory Board of the Year: Alpha Chi–Murray State University Excellence in Academic Success: Chi–Pittsburg State University Excellence in Marketing & Social Media: Mu–Truman State University Chi–Pittsburg State University Beta Alpha–Northern Illinois University Excellence in Membership Recruitment: Nu–University of Central Missouri Excellence in Resiliency: Delta Zeta–Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania Jane E. Kinderman Standards of Efficiency Award: Alpha Chi–Murray State University Laura Ward Sweet Panhellenic Excellence Award: Nu–University of Central Missouri INDIVIDUAL COLLEGIATE AWARDS Mabel Lee Walton Leadership Award: Halima Duarte, Epsilon Chi–Northeastern University Margaret Freeman Everett Outstanding Senior: Madeline Murdock, Chi–Pittsburg State University Outstanding Member: Rebecca Chernoff, Eta Xi–Ursinus College Alexis Epplin, Alpha Chi–Murray State University Outstanding Senior: Brenna Snively, Eta Xi–Ursinus College Caroline Reid, Alpha Chi–Murray State University Outstanding Advisor: Kathy Kopperud–Alpha Chi Advisor Sue Bracksieck–Alpha Iota Advisor Jena Harris–Alpha Rho Advisor Fraternity/Sorority Advisor of the Year: Alexis Swider, Elon University ALUMNAE CHAPTER AWARDS Alumnae Chapter of the Year: Indianapolis Suburban Excellence in Collegiate Support: Southern West Virginia Excellence in Creative Educational Programming–Collaboration: Chicago North Shore Excellence in Creative Educational Programming–Social Excellence: Kansas City Excellence in Creative Educational Programming–Wellbeing: Phoenix Excellence in Member Development: Phoenix Excellence in Member Recruitment: Chicago North Shore Excellence in Ritual & Values: Chicago North Shore Excellence in Volunteerism: Phoenix INDIVIDUAL ALUMNAE AWARDS Emerging Alumnae: Julia Melone, Eta Upsilon–Pennsylvania State University Dina Tolen, Eta Theta–Gustavus Adolphus College Shelby Kutev, Iota Alpha Outstanding Alumna: Lauren Cunkelman Ede, Alpha Delta Steadfast Alumna: Lori Prato Keating, Kappa Emily Gates Alumna Achievement Award: Mary Webster, Beta Kappa Collegiate awards were presented live at the Prevention Institute, Jan. 7. Alumnae awards were presented during an online ceremony, April 2. For more information on awards criteria, members can log into Sigma Connect.

It is with tremendous sorrow we report the passing of past Walton House Board Chair Inez Norwood Fridley, Gamma Beta–East Carolina University, and past Tri Sigma Foundation Board member Francis Wilhelm Redmon, Alpha Nu–Southern Illinois University Carbondale. Both passed into Omega Chapter on March 11, 2024. Inez received a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from Virginia Commonwealth University in 1966 and a master’s degree from East Carolina University where she was initiated in 1973. A longtime resident of Greenville, North Carolina, she was extremely active in her community, having served on both the town council and as Mayor Pro Tem. She served Tri Sigma on the Walton House Board of Directors for nearly 20 years, held various Convention committee roles through the years, and was a past President of the Gamma Beta House Corporation. She was the recipient of the Founders Award, Outstanding National Officer Service Award, and had recently been presented with a Golden Violet, of which she was so very proud. “Inez Fridley was a modern Renaissance woman. She loved her family, her neighbors, Greenville, and East Carolina University. She delighted in all forms of art, history and nature,” said longtime friend and Past Executive Council President Laura Ward Sweet. “Inez made us all better.” Inez is survived by her two sisters and three special nieces, one of whom was named after her. Online condolences can be made here. Frances—or Fran as she was known to her Tri Sigma sisters—graduated from the University of Illinois in 1961 with a bachelor’s degree in Speech Education. She had previously attended Southern Illinois University Carbondale where she was initiated in 1956 and later served as Chapter President. She began a career in fashion and modeling and later pursued her dream of singing, dancing, and acting. After moving to Alexandria, Virginia, she remained active in the arts through involvement with several groups, including the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra, Alexandria Singers, and the Little Theatre of Alexandria. In 1998, she was appointed to the Virginia Commission for the Arts by the then governor. Fran was a member of the Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter and previously served on the Tri Sigma Foundation Board of Directors and as a national sorority volunteer. She is a past recipient of the Emily Gates Alumna Achievement Award, an Alumna Recognition Award, and the Golden Violet. “Fran will be missed by the many sisters she impacted. Whether through the Foundation Board, the Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter, or the many other places where she gave of her time and her talents, we will feel this loss deeply,” said Foundation Board Chair JeanMarie Komyathy Mattingly. “She loved Tri Sigma and was a wonderful member for many years!” She is survived by her husband, son, and two granddaughters. Online condolences can be made here. Sympathy cards may be mailed for both women to Tri Sigma National Headquarters at 207 North Muhlenberg Street, Woodstock, VA 22664, to be sent to the family.

Tri Sigma has partnered with OurHouse, a chapter management and group communication app for fraternity and sorority chapters. Designed to serve as a central hub for chapter operations, it will empower Tri Sigma chapters to run more efficiently. Members will have access to a real-time chapter event calendar and newsfeed, polling features, a document portal, excuse submissions, service and study hour submissions, and more. The OurHouse app also offers study time tracking, emergency check-ins, photo sharing for social media and recruitment, group and direct messaging, and member-to-member in-app calling and texting. For housed chapters with meal service, the app will accommodate late plate requests and allow diners to anonymously provide meal feedback to the chef. All chapters can keep track of food allergies or dietary needs for their events. Other offerings like push notifications, member rosters, activity point tracking, document storage, and a polling feature will help chapter leaders, NHQ and the Foundation streamline communications. Both collegiate and alumnae chapters will also have updated websites provided through OurHouse. Websites and other services will be provided by NHQ free of additional charges for chapters. OurHouse is a Los Angeles-based technology provider founded by a team of former executive council officers from Sigma Nu Fraternity at UCLA. The OurHouse app is available in the Apple and Google Play stores and serves as a central hub for more than 200,000 daily users, including members of Alpha Phi, Sigma Kappa, Theta Phi Alpha, and more.

Tri Sigma National Headquarters has announced the organization will reestablish its Zeta Chi Chapter at Coastal Carolina University in Conway, South Carolina, in fall 2024. Tri Sigma’s Zeta Chi Chapter was originally founded at CCU in 1997 and closed in 2021, citing low morale and membership numbers. With sorority registration numbers and enrollment improving since the closure, campus leadership feels 2024 is the ideal time to successfully reestablish. “We are thrilled to bring Tri Sigma back to Coastal Carolina. Our return to Teal Nation will be focused on providing an outstanding member experience, a commitment to serving others, and abundant individual opportunities for lifelong personal and leadership growth,” said National President Joyce O’Daniel. Coastal Carolina University is a public liberal arts institution with an enrollment of more than 10,000. Among its 145 student clubs and organizations, Tri Sigma will be among six other National Panhellenic Conference sororities on campus, including Alpha Delta Pi, Alpha Xi Delta, Chi Omega, Gamma Phi Beta, Sigma Kappa, and Phi Sigma Sigma. The University offers 100+ undergraduate fields of study as well as doctoral and masters programs across six academic colleges. Questions regarding this reestablishment may be sent to Sr. Director of Membership Engagement Daina Knoblock at dknoblock@trisigma.org. Tri Sigma alumnae members interested in volunteering to assist with the reestablishment or serve on the Zeta Chi’s Chapter Advisory Board, are encouraged to apply here. Image Source: Coastal Carolina University

Tri Sigma National Sorority is pleased to announce the chartering of its Upstate South Carolina Alumnae Chapter. Though officially approved by Executive Council this spring, an event was held Aug. 19 at Wofford College in Spartanburg, SC, to celebrate the official presentation of the chapter’s charter. “Tri Sigma is thrilled to strengthen our alumnae presence in South Carolina,” said National President Joyce O’Daniel. “We look forward to the positive impact the Upstate South Carolina Alumnae Chapter members will make through philanthropic service in the local community.” Christi Jones-McNeill, Delta Pi–Winthrop University, serves as Alumnae Chapter President. Other elected officers include Treasurer Marsha’l Hines, Epsilon Theta–Oglethorpe University; Programming Officer Bailey Sherwood, Delta Theta–University of North Carolina at Pembroke; Public Relations Officer Cammie Wolfe, Zeta Chi–Coastal Carolina University; Membership Officer Megan Horton, Eta Beta–Newberry College; and Co-Philanthropy Officers Courtney Giles, Eta Beta–Newberry College, and Shelly Rowan, Epsilon Pi–Presbyterian College. Tri Sigma has nearly 140,000 lifetime members, and the Upstate South Carolina Alumnae Chapter marks Tri Sigma’s 95th alumnae chapter. Local alumnae interested in joining can request upcoming meeting information at upstatesctrisigma@gmail.com.

Tri Sigma has announced a new collegiate chapter leadership structure designed to create a more streamlined and efficient system for chapters. This change hopes to alleviate many of the struggles chapters have faced, such as long committee meetings, unbalanced responsibilities, cluttered officer communication, and a lack of clarity of roles and reporting. Additionally, the new position titles are more in line with similar post-collegiate professional roles, and the revised structure more closely reflects those in corporate settings. Tri Sigma’s new collegiate leadership structure consists of an 8-person officer team, as well as 10 manager positions, three additional optional positions based on chapter needs, and the opportunity for as many chapter advisory positions as needed to support the chapter. Chapters with less than 20 members eligible to serve in these positions follow the Minimalistic Leadership Structure (MLS) that combines officer responsibilities resulting in a 4-person officer team. The new structure aims to provide: Transferable real-world experience for our members Further development of leaders who guide the direction of the chapter Increased effectiveness in addressing individual member and chapter needs Streamlined communication channels both locally and nationally We look forward to offering more specific leadership development opportunities, as well as additional training, resources, and targeted communications. The Chapter Advisory Board structure has been updated to better support chapter leaders and provide C.A.B.s with the autonomy to recruit advisors to serve on the board. The new roles will begin in January 2024.