Another Lap, Another Lesson

Coming around the track for its 65th lap, convention has flown by, leaving us in a state of heightened inspiration and contemplation. With the swiftness of a racecar, Delta Gamma Convention 2012 presented itself with sleek glamour and shameless intention of leaving its mark – in true Delta Gamma fashion. Although only a few days, this year’s biennial session has offered much in experience and instruction for collegians and alumnae alike. Together we experienced the swooning power of a musician’s charm and observed time-old Fraternity traditions. We were inspired by countless speeches and further educated through general sessions. We fostered friendships with other like-minded fabulous women, and had a great time doing it all.

Over the past few days we have learned, or perhaps relearned, several things. For example, we discovered that mysterious looking food is actually quite tasty, but should still be approached with caution (just in case), and that expecting to remain well rested is quite simply unrealistic. While convention has been filled with innumerable, arguably trivial realizations, it has also produced many deeper thoughts. Lectureship guest speaker Michael Hingson reminded us that being a Delta Gamma is a privilege that provides us with a unique opportunity to positively influence the lives of others. In the Leadership luncheon lecture, “From My Perspective,” guest Pete Smithhisler reiterated our duty as Fraternity women to encourage others to “join the family” by living our ritual in our everyday lives and showing others exactly what membership in “the family” truly means. During the Panhellenic luncheon Alpha Xi Delta spokesman Ginny Carroll impressed upon us the significance of Greek life, articulately reasoning why Greek life is unique, necessary and, if done properly, self-sustainable.

Throughout the week we have been challenged to look deep within ourselves, striving to align our personal values with the Fraternity’s. And finally, any misconception that Delta Gamma thrives only at the collegiate level was effectively popped. For me this meant finally bursting my Alpha Zeta bubble and embracing the impressive scope that is our international Fraternity.

As these lessons are just the tip of the iceberg, one can only imagine the full breadth and wealth of knowledge disseminated throughout convention. A Founder’s Day speaker once told my chapter to place “attending a convention” on our Delta Gamma bucket list. I, and my fellow convention attendees, may now vouch for this statement; there are few things in life that will stick with you forever, and the convention experience is absolutely one of them.

Cadence Peckam, Alpha Zeta-Lawrence
2012-2013 Collegiate Development Consultant

I Smiled the Whole Way




Specialist meetings opened
the weekend of DG smiles.

I smiled the whole way through the airport on the way here. I smiled on the plane, and even talked with people when I normally might nap. Delta Gamma Convention has that effect on me, and many others I know. It’s a huge reunion, one filled with anchors, faces of old friends, faces of team members, and of new ideas and concepts.


Pit crews are at work. There is a lot of energy in the air, with Thursday being a day for last minute set up, and for special meetings. The staff is checking people in, handing out huge tote bags. They’ve been setting up and taking down the opening meetings without a hitch. Delta Gamma volunteers split up for pep talks and to learn about goals for the future (e-learning, anyone?).


Anchor Market place is already in full speed, selling out of items left and right. They’re only open until 11 p.m. tonight (Thursday), so their speedway is swarmed with Delta Gammas.


The opening banquet included an introduction from a local TV news anchor, a live acapella performance from Butler Universities singing group "Out of the Dawg House," and I have to mention the plate of mini desserts at dinner!


Spirits are high at the raceway. Sometimes I think Delta Gamma Conventions could break a record for most hugs given in one day. Today was no exception. It's neat to see old friends reunite, but even more special to see friends meet for the first time, forming what could be a long lasting friendship. Delta Gammas are instant friends here, no matter which "pit crew" or region they're from. And speaking of regions, how amazing it is to see the unique styles and personalities of each region, collaborating in workshops and presentations.


Tomorrow is set to be another day of smiles on the raceway.


Paige Browning, Pi-Montana
Council Appointed Coordinator, Eta Iota- Universty of Nevada, Reno

Packing my Anchors



An illuminated logo welcomes DGs at the
front door of the JW Marriott in Indy.

 Delta Gammas are in Indy! We will be blogging from our biennial convention each day and sharing our thoughts and experiences. Today's entry is from BOA member Pam Fellows Jamieson, Alpha Delta-Oregon. Be sure to check back every day. "Wow!  Convention time is HERE!  I can’t believe this will be my 11th Convention.  As I get older, it seems I keep saying things like "time really flies" - but it does!  I’ve learned that we need to pay attention to things along the way and DG Convention is one of those times when you need to stop and take it all in. I’m smiling as I write this because I can’t wait for:  

• Squeals of delight as old friends meet again  
• Anchors – E V E R Y W H E R E!!!  (And with stores like J Crew and others in the nautical moment – it should be quite an anchor-palooza this year.)  
• The look of amazement on the collegiate president’s faces when they walk into the convention body meeting room for the first time and realize they are part of this huge sisterhood and they have a voice!  
• The late nights hanging out with friends that I don’t get to see very often, and  
• Laughing – oh my goodness - we laugh - and have so much fun at Convention and I cannot wait!    

My bag(s) are almost packed!    One last check of the shoes – I mean you can’t have enough shoes - and a stop at the drycleaners and I’ll be ready. So see you all tomorrow – with ANCHORS on!    

ITB,   Pam Fellows Jamieson Alpha Delta ‘77"

Where Were They?

Sorry about the delay in getting back to you; it's been more than a week! (We wanted to keep you guessing but really, life just got in the way a little.) We did have some good guesses about our previous post's location but the correct answer came from alumna Angela Howard, Alpha Epsilon-Washington University. The 1924 Delta Gamma Convention was held in Estes Park, Colorado at the Stanley Hotel. The register contained more than 600 names, one of Delta Gamma’s largest conventions at the time, as a capacity crowd was on hand to celebrate the Fraternity’s Golden Jubilee.


The spectacular Golden Jubilee photograph of 1924 convention-goers is set against the background of an out-cropping of rocks, high in the Rocky Mountains.

Highlights of Convention actions:

• A Birthday Fund, organized by Jesse Roberson Kingery, Rho-Syracuse, sky-rocketed beyond expectations to raise a total of $57,000 which was presented to the Fraternity. The total living membership in Delta Gamma was 8,000, thus the amount raised represented more than $7.00 per member. A reserve fund was established for investment in chapter house loans with the interest earned being used for scholarship loans. 
• Three fellowships of $500.00 each were created and would honor each of the three founders, to be awarded to three graduate Delta Gammas whose graduate work would bring scholastic distinction to themselves and Delta Gamma.
• The Delta Gamma Home in Marchienne, Belgium, would receive $1,000, with the interest from this fund to be set aside as an emergency fund for special assistance for any member in need.
• Financing conventions was a growing problem so the convention body adopted a plan by which a per capita tax of $1.00 per member and $10.00 per year from alumnae chapters would be collected.
• A National Convention Chairman would be appointed to serve four years.
• The ANCHORA's official pronunciation should be with the accent on the first syllable. (Take note; that is still the pronunciation today - anchor-uh.)
• 1924 Convention marked the beginning of a campaign for a centralized office. Nancy Brown Woollett, Phi-Colorado, Fraternity President 1922-1928, constantly promoted the establishment of a central office with a “permanent executive secretary.” (The post convention Council meeting in 1924 did authorize the permanent executive secretary to serve for the next two years. There is, however, no record that this came to pass until 1942.)
• Delta Gamma’s first Distinguished Service Medal was given at this convention to Jessie Roberson Kingery, Rho-Syracuse, for her  work on the Birthday Fund.  The medallion was a special medal, not to be duplicated by sculptor, Julio Kilyeni. 
• Blanche Garten, Psi-Lewis School, presented the Fraternity with a gavel and box made from wood taken from Lewis School. The gavel would be used to open convention gatherings and the box was to be used for it to rest in between conventions.
• A finance committee was formed and since Mrs. Woollett’s term of office was ending, she was asked to be responsible for organizing this.

Check back during Convention week, next week, as we will post regularly from Indianapolis. We will look forward to guest posts throughout the week. Subscribe to this blog so that you can receive an email each time there is a new post. Thanks for reading!

Convention Rewind Keeps You Guessing

As DGs throughout North America prepare for Delta Gamma's 65th Biennial Convention (in Indianapolis later this month), let's rewind and reflect on some of our past conventions.



The official tote in Atlanta.

Last week we asked, "Where were the DGs when they were celebrating '125 years of excellence?' " They were Anchored in Atlanta from June 17-21, 1998, for Delta Gamma's 58th Biennial Convention. Cabinet member Lynn Hoffland Johsz, Gamma Chi-Cal State, Long Beach, correctly identified the mystery locale. (Look for a small prize in the mail, Lynn; let that be a hint to others.)

More than 1,000 Delta Gammas attended the 1998 gathering, making it the largest convention to date. Held at Atlanta Marriott Marquis, the opening ceremonies honored former Fraternity Presidents. Important awards were bestowed including the Order of Golden Anchor which was given to H.K. (Helen Catherine) Davis Stuart, Kappa- Nebraska. The Delta Gamma Foundation gave two faculty awards and Patricia Peterson Danielson, Theta-Indiana, was honored at a Foundation reception for her extraordinary philanthropic fundraising efforts.  

This week, we think we'll stump you. Look at the picture below. Where were these ladies convening in their cars? And what year was it?


Where were these Delta Gammas?

Check back here next week and we will tell you where this convention was located. Email us your feedback at blog@deltagamma.org or leave a comment here.

Convention Rewind in Québec

Doing the business of the Fraternity in Québec, 1956

Thanks for playing our game. We heard from some of you on Facebook with some good guesses about that previous convention location. In the end, Suzann Mitten Owen, Theta-Indiana, correctly identified Le Château Frontenac in Québec, Canada (a place I have always longed to visit).

Six hundred attended the 1956 convention even though the registration had been raised to $25. Each officer personally paid her way. This was the last time that the Delta Gamma Convention Special train made the trip to a DG convention. It ran from Chicago to Quebec with stops in Detroit, Toronto and Montreal where arrivals from New York and the South converged with the Delta Gamma Special.

The French flavor of Québec city was emphasized with menus printed in French. As is always the case at convention, there was business conducted. Some highlights included:

• A Central Office Building Fund was established for the tremendous chapter expansion that took place during this period.
• A Roberta Abernethy Honorary Fellowship of $500 was announced and, coincidently, the honoree was from Quebec.
• The office of Panhellenic Delegate was created and added as a member of Council.
• The Rose Award was presented for the first time at convention.
• Emphasis was placed on youth.



Moving On

Let's go somewhere else now, can you guess our next Convention Rewind spotlight? Here are some hints.

• Delta Gamma celebrated “125 years of excellence.” 
• The first ever Psi Women awards were given, as part of the Watchwords Individual Pursuit.
• The final banquet featured "Moonlight and Magnolias."
• Maureen Sweeney Syring, Nu-Idaho, received the Order of the Delta Gamma Rose Award.

Convention Rewind

As DGs throughout North America prepare for Delta Gamma's 65th Biennial Convention (in Indianapolis in June), let's rewind and reflect on some of our past conventions.

Convention totes have been a long-standing tradition. Attendees happily fill their bags with mementos and important paperwork throughout their stays. The tote pictured above is from a past DG convention. Can you guess where they were? Were you there? Leave a comment on our blog.

Here are some hints. It would have been considered a northerly locale. While visiting, you might have heard another language being spoken there.

Dressed for dinner - love those hats!

General Session, Convention 1956

Where were they in 1956? Were you there?

Check back here next week and we will tell you where the Delta Gammas convened in 1956. Email us your feedback at blog@deltagamma.org or leave a comment below.

Sisterhood at its Finest!

As she wraps up her term, we asked retiring Fraternity Vice President: Alumnae Mary Anne Ruman Lachenmaier, Alpha Pi-Arizona, a few delving questions.

Q: What is your all-time favorite Delta Gamma memory?

A: My all-time favorite DG memory ... oh my gosh, far too many collegiate and alumnae memories from which to choose!

Collegiate Memory: I LOVED the spring time “Greek Week” when DG was paired with Pi Kappa Alpha to compete against other sorority/fraternity pairings to win races and games. And boy, was I competitive. Thanks to that pairing, I met my college sweetheart and future husband!
Alumnae Memory: So many, but serving as the co-chairman of the 2000 “Fiesta in Phoenix” Delta Gamma Convention here in Arizona was an amazing and life-changing experience for me; communicating with and recruiting more than 100 alumnae volunteers for the success of this Convention is a special memory I will be ever proud of. 

Q: Which Delta Gamma convention was your favorite and why?
A: Three in particular (sorry, I cannot choose just one):  
My 1st: 1982 as a very young alumnae president delegate for the newly formed Saddleback Valley alumnae chapter.
My 2nd: 2000 as the co-chairman, as mentioned above.
My 3rd: 2008  being elected to Council for my first term as the Fraternity Vice President of Alumnae - Oh my gosh.
My 4th: Hmm, TBD!
As you can obviously see, the “bigger picture” of Delta Gamma experiences and adventures revolves around our biennial Conventions, bringing so many incredible sisters “together”... collegians and alumnae. Conventions are amazing.

Q: If you have one piece of advice for a new member of Delta Gamma, what would that be?
A: Delta Gamma goes beyond your collegiate years. It is a lifetime membership and although you may not yet realize it, you have a “home” within alumnae groups across the country and Canada, and even areas abroad. It is for life and it is “sisterhood at its finest.”

Q: What did you learn from being on Council?
A: While relying on past professional and Delta Gamma successes and experiences, I learned how important it is to work collaboratively within the Board as we addressed the business of the Fraternity. 
I relied on advice from a few of my Delta Gamma mentors who suggested that I:

• Know my job responsibilities and expectations and “serve well.”
• Set measurable goals and “go for your goals.”
• Do not be afraid to ask questions, dig deeper to find the answers and understand.
• Are you having fun? Make sure you have fun!
• Also, I had known since before I started my terms as Vice President: Alumnae just how important it is to build an incredible “team'” to advance the goals and mission we hope to achieve. I am forever grateful for the ability to identify and appoint outstanding members to a team that I can count on to work harder and smarter to “make a difference” in Delta Gamma.

Q: What is your hope for the future of Delta Gamma?
A: That every member (18 or 81) realizes the importance of Delta Gamma in her life; that we continue to focus on and promote the mission our three founders set forth so that members appreciate and live by our high ideals of friendship, promoting education and cultural interests, creating social responsibility and developing character. Sisterhood at its finest!

Q and A with a DG Celebrity

Periodically, DG Anchors will ask some of our esteemed members these ponderous questions. Today's responses come from Delta Gamma's NPC Delegate Barbara Bartlett Probst, Gamma Upsilon-Wichita State (pictured in the blue).

Q: What is your all-time favorite Dee Gee memory? A: It has to be the night I preferenced Delta Gamma at Wichita State, Gamma Upsilon chapter. I've remembered it well for over 50 years now, with the red carpet that led to the beautiful ice anchor upon which I placed my lei, and would pick it up the next day if I returned. And I especially remember the song, "For All We Know we Shall Never Meet Again"...that had me in tears, because I knew I wanted to meet the Delta Gammas the next morning and was both excited and scared that we would "never meet again." What a great decision I made that day to pledge Delta Gamma and I thank them to this day for choosing me. It has been life-altering for me in so many good ways! Little did I know then that I would travel to over 100 campuses, meet hundreds of sisters who would become "my sisters" and grow and learn to be a leader...just a few of the many things I contribute to Delta Gamma. 

Q: Which Delta Gamma convention has been your favorite and why? A: Convention 2000, Fiesta in Phoenix, my 15th convention.  Why? Because, for one thing I was honored to be asked to Chair the Convention, and it truly was one of the most fun and rewarding jobs I have had in Delta Gamma.... but mainly because it brought many new DG faces together-women who had not been involved for a while and had never known each other before they got this call to serve. I, myself, was very new to the Phoenix Area and didn’t know any of these women. Today, many are still dear friends. The entire committee was dedicated, energetic and extremely enthusiastic about putting on the BEST Convention ever. We learned how to work together, appreciate one another and laugh a lot...and the result was a TERRIFIC Convention enjoyed by all.

Q: If you have one piece of advice for a new member of Delta Gamma, what would that be? A: To remember that Delta Gamma is a lifetime experience, and to enjoy every minute to its fullest. In order to do that, you have the obligation to give back to your fraternity by being involved, by paying your dues, by wearing your Anchor badge with pride and by living the Oath of Friendship! Nothing is more sacred than our Oath of Friendship, and it represents the way we should all live our lives, loving and supporting our sisters no matter what. Delta Gamma is forever... and you will be absolutely amazed at all the incredible new friendships you will make along the way. It’s a win/win situation no matter how you look at it.

    

Q: What have you learned from being part of the leadership of Delta Gamma? A: That it is an honor and privilege to serve the fraternity at any level, but especially if one is lucky enough to work at the Council level. All eight of us who currently serve on the council must realize that the future of our fraternity is in our hands and we must make good sound decisions, be competent enough to share a vision of what we want for Delta Gamma's future and we must lead with honesty, integrity and lots of enthusiasm.

Q: What is your hope for the future of Delta Gamma? A:  As Delta Gamma's NPC Delegate, I work closely with the other 25 groups, and we all work together advocating for not only our individual groups but for all groups. I expect Delta Gamma to take the lead in advocating for our women, to ensure that DG is there for my three granddaughters and for all those other wonderful young legacies to come. Being a member of Delta Gamma is a “gift” and each of us needs to appreciate, nurture and support our fraternity so that we will still be strong and viable 140 years from now.

Q: What is it like to have a celebrity son? A: Well, it has worked magic once in a while in Delta Gamma.  When I have collegians look at me like I am "too old" to possibly understand what they are saying or where they are coming from, I pull out the stops and mention that I do have three children- and they might be familiar with one of them. At the mention of Jeff's name that suddenly makes me a "mom" and then I'm okay. I always love their reaction.

Actually, I have three fabulous sons, two daughters-in-law, a terrific husband of 53 years and four adorable grandchildren... all of whom are the lights of my life, but one son is "well known" and; of course, we are all very proud of Jeff. Likewise, he is very proud of me. If you were to see Jeff on the street and say, "Hey, Jeff, I know your Mom, " he would immediately say, "You must be a DG!"  He has been incredibly supportive of my Delta Gamma career and has always known how very important Delta Gamma has been to me. I love that my family is all so supportive.

Oh, and yes, one other little thing...I've had the opportunity to attend the Emmy Awards three times - not to mention many other venues and trips to "exotic" Survivor Islands, which are so fun, thanks to Jeff. I guess you could say I'm enjoying the extra perks that come with being his Mom. (The 300th episode of Survivor was filmed in Samoa. Probst is pictured here on the set with her sons and husband.)

Q: Is there anything else you would like to say to our blog readers?  A: I can truly say with all honesty, that with the exception of the love of my fabulous family, Delta Gamma has been nearest and dearest to my heart since I pledged in 1957. That is nearly 55 years of love I have had for my fraternity and represents my involvement for nearly every one of those years. Delta Gamma has given me way more than I can ever give back. I am one very lucky lady!

Hanging with Bill Rancic



Rancic and Lehman

Chapter director: Lectureship Sloane Lehman, Beta Iota-Purdue, hired Bill Rancic to be the keynote speaker at the chapter's seventh Delta Gamma Lectureship in Values & Ethics on October 2, 2011. Bill Rancic, the first "Apprentice" chosen by Donald Trump, is a positive role model for young people, espousing the importance of honesty, fairness and hard work. Chapter members are thrilled as scenes from the Purdue visit will be a part of an upcoming tv show.

Lehman says, "He gave a wonderful and inspiring talk to more than 700 people in Elliott Music Hall at Purdue. Everyone came away invigorated and motivated to do their best and never give up."

Bill is married to Giuliana, an anchor on E! Entertainment News and reality show co-star. Recently, the couple has been in the spotlight due to Giuliana's struggles with breast cancer. They have been willing to share their experience to help others and will continue to do so on their upcoming television shows. Their series, "Giuliana & Bill," now in its fifth season, is a positive and unscripted reality series -  a romantic love-story and comedy.

Rancic at the Beta Iota chapter house.

Bill brought along his camera crew last October and they were with members of Beta Iota chapter for five hours, at the chapter house and at Elliott Hall where Bill's lecture was held. The Purdue visit will be a part of Guiliana & Bill's season five, episode two, "The Booby Trap," airing on Style Network. Tune in to watch or record the Purdue Delta Gammas with Bill Rancic (episodes air repeatedly): 
http://www.mystyle.com/mystyle/index.jsp

Beta Iota collegians with Bill Rancic.

Leaving a legacy in this world…

“Doing good” is a value that is reinforced as a member of Delta Gamma. Helping others was the passion of DG alumna Suzy McGrane, Epsilon Chi-South Carolina, whose huge heart but all-too-short life is still making an impact in her home state of South Carolina.

According to Epsilon Chi sister Stephanie Stein Fulmer, Suzy was a kind and fun-loving gal. “She loved Delta Gamma and just gave her whole heart to whatever project we were involved in as a group, whether it was Anchor Splash, Derby Days or Greek Week. (She) was always upbeat and positive, never a complainer.”

“Whenever you were with Suzy, it was fun,” added Anne-Marie Campbell Jones, Epsilon Chi-South Carolina. “Suzy was (our chapter’s) Anchor Splash chair and ‘unofficial’ social director. She had the natural ability to make people feel at ease.”

Her great smile and sense of humor are what Jacki Van Besien Allston remembers best about her Delta Gamma sister. “I remember having a lot of laughs with her, like the time we scouted the USC Greek directory for formal dates. (She) was always up for a challenge.”

Unfortunately, Suzy faced an incredible challenge in her early twenties when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. While Suzy was undergoing treatment near family in Arizona, her friends in South Carolina got together to try to assist her with the enormous financial burden of medical costs. A fundraising event titled “Save Our Suzy” (SOS) was held in Columbia and through it, Suzy’s friends were able to contribute a significant amount of money to assist with bills.

Suzy completed her treatments and, while in remission, returned to Columbia with one goal in mind: to help other breast cancer patients. She introduced her SOS friends to new breast cancer patients and the group continued fundraising, realizing from Suzy that patients had more than medical needs during treatment. Suzy, herself, worked directly with breast cancer patients at a local cancer center, sharing her love, laughter and support.

“Suzy didn’t have the luxury of ignorance. She knew what she was dealing with every day because of what she saw others face, yet she had the courage of heart to literally hold patients’ hands as they died,” said John Buxton, Suzy's friend and current SOS board member. “You meet very few amazing people in your life but Suzy was just that – amazing!”

The number of people Suzy made an impact on continued to multiply as she worked as a photographer in the Columbia area. Members of a local band, Hootie and the Blowfish, were among the subjects of her photography and the friends in her heart. After the group’s influence and popularity grew, they were kind enough to donate original band memorabilia to an SOS fundraiser to help Suzy.

During Suzy’s second diagnosis, SOS was again able to assist her financially during treatment. Upon her tragic passing in October 2005, the SOS organization changed its name to “Share Our Suzy” in an effort to share Suzy’s passion for helping others. Today, the charitable organization continues to work to help breast cancer patients across the entire state of South Carolina.

SOS’s goal is to assist breast cancer patients with the financial stresses of treatment so they can focus solely on recovery. The organization raises funds to help with everyday needs like wigs, prosthetics, child care, utility bills and more. Their hope is to help cover critical areas of living with cancer that insurance does not.

Annual fundraisers now include the Black & White black tie event held each January in Charleston, a “Get in the Pink” 5K and 10K run each Mother’s Day weekend in Columbia, a Suzy McGrane Memorial Concert held each Memorial Day weekend in Charleston and a “Bridging the Gap” wine-tasting event each fall in Columbia. The group also solicits donations on its website.

“SOS has provided more than $250,000 in assistance to breast cancer patients in South Carolina since Suzy’s passing (in October 2005),” stated Margaret Nevill, a friend of Suzy’s and current SOS board member. “We are honored to continue her dream of helping others like herself.”

For more information on Suzy McGrane’s legacy SOS organization, please visit their website at www.shareoursuzy.org. Thank you to Stephanie Jackson Martin, Epsilon Chi-South Carolina, for sharing Suzy's story with us.

The Delta Gamma Badge

As Greek women throughout the world celebrate International Badge Day, we will take a look at the evolution of the Delta Gamma badge.

an original "H' pin

H Pin  Delta Gamma Founder Mary Comfort Leonard wrote, “We went to the local jeweler and had our pin made—the dear little letter H which stood for Hope.”

sketch of an original badge

Anchor Badge

The anchor badges, designed by Corrine Miller of the Mother Chapter soon after Delta Gamma's founding, were large pins and were as varied as members chose to have them. The badges were worn various places, usually on or near the collar.  


1915 pin

At the 1905 Convention, a committee recommended that a uniform badge design be adopted. It was! Since that time, some minor variations and limitations as to size, jewels and jeweler have been made.

Pi Alpha pin, Mother’s Pin

New members wore tricolor ribbons in the early years, but as early as the 1880s some chapters began to use pledge pins. An 1889 ANCHORA letter from Sigma-Northwestern says, “Our pledged girls now wear the chapter head, as well as the colors.” (The head refers to a chapter Greek letter pin, usually a stick pin upon which to attach the tricolor ribbons. The 1901 Convention concerned itself with a national pledge pin and in 1905 the one we know today was adopted.

Since then, other forms of symbols have been agreed upon—such as a recognition pin and a mother’s pin—but the golden anchor is constant.  

Wear your Delta Gamma badge with pride!

Sisters, Daughters and DGs

New member Kelly Kundinger and her mom
Lari Bowman Kundinger, Beta Sigma-Maryland.

This past fall, Alpha Psi-Mississippi pledged 123 new members. That in itself is newsworthy. But, what's really extraordinary is that they pledged 35 legacies.



This year's recruitment was extra special for Cassie Bryant, Alpha Psi-Mississippi, not only because she was serving her chapter as president but also because her younger sister Becca was going through recruitment.

"On Bid Day, I was extremely excited to welcome my sister as a Delta Gamma new member," said Cassie. "I am looking forward to initiating my sister and sharing the lifelong bonds of sisterhood in Delta Gamma."

Sisters Anne Lauren and Elissa Roybal
with sisters Becca and Cassie Bryant.

Younger sister Becca Bryant told us, "Although I promised myself to be open minded while going through recruitment, my previous visits to Ole Miss during high school allowed me to meet many Delta Gammas since my sister was very involved with the sorority. My impressions of the young ladies I met and their involvement to be the best in the activities in which they participated made a lasting impression on me. I was thrilled when recruitment week finally arrived, and I was met with such genuine warmth from so many Delta Gammas. I have to admit... when your sister is president of the sorority, there is added pressure to pledge her sorority; however, when it came down to choosing a group where I felt I would fit in the best, it was easy - Delta Gamma!"


Elissa Roybal, followed in her sister Anne Lauren's footsteps. "I chose DG because I felt at home there. While going through recruitment and meeting the girls, I saw the image of exactly the kind of person I strive to be. My sister is my biggest role model, and at DG I feel like every girl I meet has the same morals and attitude she has."

Older sister Carly, mom Sheri and
new member Mary Van Haynes.

New member Mary Van Haynes joined her mother and sister when she pledged. Mary Van explains, "Dee Gee has always been a part of my life because of my mother and older sister, Carley. I have always wanted to share the DG sisterhood with them, and hopefully I will be able to share it with my younger sister. DG feels like home, because at home we are DG."  

Mary Van's mother Sheri Haynes, Delta Lambda-Mississippi State, who served as president of her collegiate chapter, said, "It means a lot to share all that Delta Gamma is with my oldest two daughters. Two down. One to go!" 

Older sister Carly Haynes, Alpha Psi-Mississippi, said, "When Mary Van was born she wasn't given the option of which family to join. This was her opportunity to choose me as her sister."

Granddaughters, daughters, sisters or the same step-relations of Delta Gamma members are considered Delta Gamma legacies. To learn more about the tradition of Delta Gamma legacies, visit the Delta Gamma Web site here.

My Two Cents...

Periodically, DG Anchors will ask some of our esteemed members these ponderous questions. Today's responses come from current Fraternity President Elizabeth (Beth) Bell Searcy, Epsilon Gamma-Virginia.

Q: What is your all time favorite Dee Gee memory?
A:  There are too many. Running into my best friend's arms when accepting my bid? Saying the Oath of Friendship around the marker at the site of the Lewis School? Being installed as Fraternity President? Having sisters from across the country be my champion at my mother's funeral? Presenting the charter to a newly-minted Delta Gamma chapter?  Applauding a young leader who found her voice and stood up to behavior contrary to our values? Singing Dream Girl to my newborn baby daughter, full of the hope that the Fraternity will impact her life as it has mine. I cannot choose, and I am thankful. 

Q: Which Delta Gamma convention was your favorite and why?
A: Palm Dessert, both 1992 and 2008. The 1992 Convention was the only one (so far) I have attended as a visitor, and it was so relaxing and fun. Plus, the earthquake was just unforgettable. At the 2008 Convention, I was installed as President, an honor that was, and is, overwhelming. 

Q: If you have one piece of advice for a new member of Delta Gamma, what would that be?
A: Do Good. If you focus on what you have to give, what you get will be remarkable. Serve, and you will be served immeasurably in return. Lead, and you will be led to grow and develop to your personal best. Live our values, and you will enjoy the pride and richness of a virtuous reputation. Open your heart to hope, and you will be bathed in the beauty of a glorious sisterhood.

Q: What have you learned from being on Council?
A:  That it's absolutely true that people may not remember what you did, but they remember how you made them feel. That we can impact women in significant ways if we don't care who gets the credit and we don't keep score. That doing what's best for the Fraternity is always, always the right path to take. That spending time with members and listening well is more valuable than a dozen conference calls. 

Q: What is your hope for the future of Delta Gamma?
A:  My hope for Delta Gamma is that we find the right balance of holding on to our heritage while embracing the opportunities of the future. The college landscape is very different than it was in 1873, but our mission is still exceedingly relevant to women today. Blending the two is essential to offering a relevant, meaningful membership experience to today's college students and alumnae by focusing on how to reach a broader demographic of women, how to offer a less structured but still impactful membership experience, and how to encourage women to lead authentic lives, have healthy relationships, and take action in a global community rooted in our core values. It will mean superimposing a timeless, treasured frame over a modern, changing picture.  We can do it; we are doing it. 

I Recall...

Periodically, DG Anchors will ask some of our esteemed members these ponderous questions. Today's responses come from long-time ANCHORA editor and current archives committee member Frances Lewis Stevenson, Zeta-Albion, who now resides in Florida.

Q: What is your all-time favorite Dee Gee memory?
A: Shortly after I was initiated, I was home for the weekend and ran out of gas. I coasted to a stop, and another car pulled up to offer help. Out jumped a person I had admired very much in high school, and she, too, was wearing a Delta Gamma pin. My immediate problem was solved, and I had found a new lifelong friend.

Q: Which Delta Gamma convention is a favorite and why? A: I am neither brave enough nor foolish enough to compare the qualities of 26 conventions in a period of 58 years! The first few were at some of North America's notable resort hotels--how can one forget the hotel dining rooms, open choices on the menu, and a permanent orchestra which could respond to any request and knew every college song ever written.  However, in 1948 my first convention also included the overwhelming sadness of the editor's death in a plane crash en route and a flu virus which not only circulated speedily but would result in a day of absenteeism for each victim. I attended most conventions as a staff member, usually with some special duty which could prove to be a knotty and tangled problem or involved a lot of "special duty" time. For example, at Portland (1966) I was to do an historical pageant for which we had shipped around 50 costumes. I spent a good part of that convention in my room at an ironing board readying the clothing to be worn and bagging accessories for each one. One comment on that convention: It must have been memorable, for we noticed that those who attended were through the years more generous than others in their gifts to the Foundation and that 1966 attendees were also most likely to agree to holding province offices or chairmanships.

Q: If you have one piece of advice for a new member of Delta Gamma, what would that be? A: Never forget that Delta Gamma is a lifetime membership. There will be new friends wherever you go--my best friends today are people I didn't know before we moved here, Delta Gammas from all parts of the country. Wherever you go, find an alumnae group--and don't give up after one visit. Become part of whatever is happening.

Q: What have you learned from being a Delta Gamma leader A: I have had a special advantage being so many years on the Executive Offices staff--knowing each generation as young women come and go, understanding that change is inevitable but not all bad.

Q: What is your hope for the future of Delta Gamma? A:  My hope and trust is that we will continue to add people like you who will accept responsibility for things they are really good at--as you are doing. My immediate hope is that a Delta Gamma will appear on the scene who will be a top notch executive director.

__________________________________________

The Frances Lewis Stevenson Archives at Executive Offices are aptly named after our beloved Fran. As a member of the EO staff for nearly 40 years and a loyal volunteer ever since, Fran is known for her remarkable ability to remember the most miniscule details. She can often recall in which ANCHORA issue a historical fact appears. She would be thrilled if you would make plans to visit the archives in Columbus, Ohio, to learn about DG's treasured past and view some treasured artifacts.

Providing Hope through Art

For Jasmine LaCoursiere, it's more than just a cup, it represents creative expression, hope and "the power of a wish made together."

Jasmine LaCoursiere, Chi-Cornell, is a busy collegian and founder of Wishing Cup. After the 2010 Haitian earthquake, while still in high school, Jasmine was inspired to take action; she founded a non-profit organization to create a “living work of hope." Wishing Cup involves high school and college students across America, focused on bringing donations, hands-on help and goods to orphanages in Haiti, Brazil and struggling regions throughout the world. In turn, children in these regions have the opportunity to create works of art, typically ceramic cups from donated supplies, which are then distributed to donors as keepsakes.

Referring to the Haitian earthquake, Jasmine explains, "The tragedy changed my own life inspiring me to focus my dedication to helping children in need by launching a mission to carry with me throughout my journey known as 'Wishing Cup'. Art played an instrumental role in my personal growth; and, throughout my college years and graduate studies, I hope to discover therapeutic ways to heal children suffering from life-struggles, and bring awareness to the human development needs and policy reform needs to aid orphans, homeless children, children living in foster care and teens at-risk."

Visit the organization's Web site for details and opportunities: http://www.wishingcup.org/.

Jasmine LaCoursiere

With 200,000 members strong, Delta Gamma Fraternity has so many people we can highlight. We are using this blog to share news and stories from some of our shiniest anchors. For consideration, please email blog@deltagamma.org.

Getting into the Spirit

They make some cute elves, don't they? Delta Gamma collegians from Zeta Psi chapter at Salisbury University recently got into the holiday spirit. The chapter gathered to make get-well cards for injured soldiers receiving care at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland.

With 200,000 members strong, Delta Gamma Fraternity has a few people we can highlight and stories to tell. Do you have a story to share? Write to us at blog@deltagamma.org.  Are you a DG blogger? If so, tell us about your blog so we can follow you!

Zeta Psi chapter was installed in March 1996 and is located in Salisbury, Maryland.

The Purdue Class Ring

Many of our members demonstrate great loyalty to Delta Gamma and continued allegiance to their alma maters. Purdue graduate Helen Gordon is one of those members.

Several years ago, at the Atlanta Delta Gamma alumnae chapter’s Christmas brunch, the group was looking for a way to recognize one of their outstanding members, Helen Young Gordon, Beta Iota-Purdue. Since Helen was moving to Washington, DC, the chapter wanted to do something special for her. Mary Alice Braudwell Phinney, Beta Theta-Duke, knew of the perfect gesture and presented Helen with an antique Purdue class ring.

The ring was originally given to Mary Alice by her mother Mary Jenkins Braudwell. As a teen, Mary Alice had worn the ring on a chain around her neck. The ring, engraved with Mary Jenkins’ name and 1921, the year she graduated from Purdue, is made of 18-carat gold. It features an unusual garnet stone, carved with the letters P, U, R, D, U and E. On the side, it displays the Purdue seal, and the words science and *technology.

Mary Jenkins was born in 1898 and grew up on an Indiana farm. Upon high school graduation, she taught in a one-room school and then enrolled at Purdue, where she majored in home economics concentrating on the chemistry of foods. She always told of how her world expanded when she first studied chemistry. Mary Jenkins became a life-long member of the Purdue Alumni Association and contributed to the old student union building fund. Her name appears on a plaque, to this day, along with the names of three sisters and a brother, who were also Purdue graduates.

Helen’s family tree reads like a Purdue alumni roster. Her husband John is a Purdue graduate and 1965 DG Anchor Man. Helen’s sister, two uncles, two aunts, three cousins and their spouses all are Purdue graduates. Prestigious Purdue University awards have been presented to several of Helen’s relatives over the years.

“Going to a Purdue event is like going home,” says Helen. “There are so many wonderful memories from my student days there. Since chairing the successful Delta Gamma Ethics and Values Lectureship campaign at Purdue in 2001, I have made even more friends at all levels of the University administration as well as being reacquainted with my fellow Beta Iota sisters. I look forward annually to meeting the current outstanding Beta Iota collegians. I have attended the **Purdue Lectureships since their inception.”

Helen attends the Boiler Ball each year and sits with several Beta Iota alumnae. A life member of the Purdue President’s Council as well as the Purdue Alumni Association (PAA), Helen participates in several Purdue activities annually. When the Boilermakers football team went to the Rose Bowl in 2000, Helen and John were there to cheer them on. When the band was a part of the Thanksgiving Day Parade in 2010, Helen and John were there to show support. Additionally, they regularly attend dinners and receptions when Purdue folks come to Washington DC.

When Mary Alice met Helen in the 1990s, she told her about her mother. Over the years, wondering what to do with the class ring was a puzzle to Mary Alice. No member of Mary Alice’s family had attended Purdue in recent generations. Learning about Helen’s love for Purdue, Mary Alice thought that the ring would be a treasured possession in Helen’s home. Mary Alice was correct. Helen wears this beautiful 1921 antique class ring with pride whenever she goes to Purdue. The class ring will always provide a special bond between DGs Helen and Mary Alice.


*It is fitting that the word “technology” bestows the special ring, as Helen continues to greatly contribute to Delta Gamma’s technological efforts such as e-Ops and local Web sites.
**Purdue Lectureship speakers have included Erik Alexander, Herman Boone, Joan Brock, Steve Ford, Bill Rancic, Robin Roberts and Amy Tan. (Pictured is speaker Robin Roberts (center) with Helen Gordon, two people to her left.) For more about Delta Gamma lectureships, visit: http://www.deltagamma.org/media/resources/foundation/history_lectureships.pdf.

Thankfulness

On our Fraternity Facebook page (over 30,000 fans and growing!) this week, we posed the question, “For what are you thankful?” And, wow, we were flooded with responses. The overwhelming sentiment was simply, “sisterhood.” We stopped to read each one, and it made our day to hear what members shared.

We think Misty Byrd Foster, Delta Pi-Southern Mississippi, says it well, “I am thankful for all the wonderful friendships I made throughout school. Delta Gamma gave me the opportunity to make lifelong friends.”
Isn’t that the truth?
We love to hear members thankful for their sisterhood and we want to keep it going. During this holiday season, we challenge you to make it a priority to connect or possibly re-connect with a pledge sister, adviser who inspired you or a DG relative. Catch up, talk about Delta Gamma or make a commitment to get together. Or even easier, make a difference in someone else’s day by telling them what they mean to you.
And to prove Delta Gamma sisterhood really is for a lifetime, Marty Wynne, Beta Eta-Texas, shares, “I am thankful for DG sisters who, although they have never met you and don't know you, will do a kindness for you for no other reason than you are a DG sister.”
And for THAT we are thankful. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!


Note: If you wish to contribute a blog story idea, write to blog@deltagamma.org. We look forward to hearing from you. The photo above is our Facebook featured photo and features joyful collegians from Eta Delta chapter at the University of North Florida on Bid Day.

The DG Anchors blog is back

Coming soon... new blog posts highlighting some of
our most interesting members and their stories.
Check back soon and spread the word that the DG Anchors blog is back.