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Social events included Kappa CocktailIn January, Owl-O-Weenthe new Beta Xi Chapter Council was eager to continue the legacy of great leadership of past officers, as well as accomplishing new goals for out chapter. For President, Ellen Crowe served; For Vice President Standards, Anna Wittenmeyer served; For Vice President Organization, Hailey Becker served; For Vice President Academic Excellence, Erin Kreindler served; For Recording Secretary, Ali Purnell served; For Corresponding Secretary, Charlotte Paine served; For Treasurer, Payton Scott served; For Assistant Treasurer, Camille Szelc served; For Registrar, Avery Travis served; For Marshal, Hannah Love served; For Education Chairman, Caroline Smyrl served; For House Chairman, Sara Shaw served; For Membership Chairman, Riley Longtain served; For New Member Chairman, Tai Massimilian served; For Panhellenic Delegate, Monmouth Duo with Pi Beta PhiAlex Page served; For Philanthropy Chairman, Kappa/Tri-Delt RanchBerkley Johnson served; For Public Relations Chairman, Parents’ WeekendKathryn Stouffer served; For Risk Management Chairman, Mom Grace Winston served; and Dad WeekendsFor Event Chairman, and Junior/Senior Night. One evening the entire chapter attended a sing-a-long at a local restaurant. Beta Xi also continued the tradition of hosting a Halloween party and trick-or-treating for the children of local alumnaeMallory Morris served.
'''Housing:'''
Beta Xi continued to occupy the chapter house throughout the decade.
'''In February, Kappas were getting settled in with their classes, and the officers were beginning to get the hang of their new responsibilities: planning events, running meetings, and fulfilling their duties more easily. Berkley Johnson (Philanthropy:'''Chair) took it upon herself to completely revamp Beta Xi’s philanthropic efforts. She continued the new partnership with the B+ Foundation that the last philanthropy chair began, combining Kappa’s passion for reading with our love of kids.We adopted a B+ Hero named Moriah, who is battling cancer, and made her an honorary “sister.” Kappas began visiting Moriah at the hospital, playing games, doing puzzles, and when she felt up to it, even having dance parties with our newest little Kappa. Mallory Morris (Event Chairman) and Grace Winston (Risk Management) pulled off a great Monmouth formal at Brazos Hall, and everyone had a wonderful time with their dates and Pi Phi friends. Riley Longtain (Membership Chairman) held a very successful first recruitment workshop with the freshman, teaching them the in’s and out’s of rush and the importance of the spring semester for recruiting. While Kappa prepared for recruitment, so did Alex Page (Panhellenic Delegate) and Grace Anne McGinnis, a Kappa who served as Vice President of UT’s Panhellenic Council. They began a wonderful year of working together and representing Kappa well to other sororities and to UPC. We rounded out the month with a visit from our moms, with fun shopping events and a brunch at The Grove downtown to celebrate Mom’s Weekend.
Philanthropy was a priority Then came March, another great month for Beta Xi , as the spring semester was in full swing. Hannah Love (Marshal) led a successful and efficient ritual workshop to refresh the twenty-first century. The chapter maintained traditions such as on the Kappa Klassic Pool Tournament, which raised almost $5,000 for a charity in 2006ritual and history of our organization. Other philanthropic activities included holding a Chili Cookoff with Erin Kreindler (VP Academic Excellence) continued to encourage the Tri-Deltsgirls to study hard, volunteering with for fun Study Snacks events like pizza catering and coffee after chapter! Riley continued to hold Rush Workshops with the SPCA freshman and the Highland Park Elementary Halloween carnival, decorating the Children’s Hospital older girls to prepare for various holidays, hosting Easter recruitment and Halloween parties for local childrendevelop a strategy to show girls what Kappa is all about, and making Christmas cookies for hospitalized childrendespite our lack of a house. Children have always been a major focus Hailey Becker (VP Organization) worked hard to plan for the group, and leadership consultant’s upcoming visit in 2008, the sisters provided free winter coats to children through Coats for KidsApril.
Two new philanthropy traditions began during this decadeApril was a busy month as usual for Beta Xi. In 2009Our leadership consultant, Beta Xi hosted its first Kappa CookoutKate Burton, an event that invited community members to join the sisters came and brought some amazing ideas for delicious catered foodour chapter with her. That yearShe hung out with our members, the proceeds from selling tickets to the eventdoing fun things around Austin and helped our officers grow in their leadership abilities. Hailey Becker (VP Organization) did an amazing job making Kate feel at home. Berkley Johnson (Philanthropy Chair) helped plan our fundraiser, $7Kappa Pi-Phi Carnival,600complete with snow cones and live music, went to The Austin Children’s Shelterraising money for our philanthropy. The following yearWe love joining forces with another sorority who also cares about supporting literacy, and the event was a blast as usual. She also held a successful RIF event at Wooldridge Elementary. The entire chapter raised more than $8came together and set up stations at the school to play games, read, decorate bookmarks,000 and donated get their faces painted. At the proceeds to end of the RIF laughter-filled event, each child took home a book (or two!). Mallory Morris (Reading is FundamentalEvent Chairman)of Austinplanned an awesome Dad’s Weekend, specifically to with food catered on a fun rooftop venue and the chapter attending the Palm Elementary SchoolSpring football game with their dads. Donations were She and Grace Winston (Risk Management) also made to the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundationplanned another successful event with our friends in Theta, called Kite & Key. The other new philanthropic event was held at a powder puff football game with Pi Beta Phivenue downtown and everyone had a wonderful time. Proceeds from A senior Kappa, Kallen Dimitroff ran for Student Body President of the tickets were donated University of Texas, and despite her campaign’s loss, it wasincredible to see the Davis Moon Project, a non-profit organization that collects books to be hand-delivered through organized literacy mission trips in Addis, Ethiopiawhole chapter gather around her and support her with pride.
'''Convention Awards:'''Over the summer, Kappa sisters spread out across the globe for internships, jobs, and study abroad programs. From Spain, to New York, to Paris, to Dallas and Houston and Galveston, to all the way in Australia, Kappas took the world by storm. But the months flew by, as summer always does, and came to a close. By August, everyone was ready to get back to their Kappa friends, to Austin, and to the University of Texas.
==Highlights Riley Longtain (Recruitment Chair) and her team’s hard work over the past semester culminated at the end of 2011-2019==August. Spirit week was a blast, and the chapter’s hard work during a long week of recruiting paid off when 68 awesome new members came running to the Littlefield fountain on campus, to be welcomed by our chapter with open arms. The stresses of a long Recruitment and being without a real home took a toll on the chapter, however. Our chapter stumbled on Bid Night with some behavioral issues that we know are unacceptable. Ellen Crowe (President) and the Chapter Council quickly jumped into action, taking ownership of our mistakes and trying to get the chapter back on track. We would have been lost without the fearless leadership of Ellen, the patience of Anna Wittenmyer (VP Standards), the planning of Hailey Becker (VP Organization), and the maturity of Tai Massimillian (New Member Chairman). We knew there would be consequences and this would be a long road ahead, but we also knew that changes that needed to occur. We were nervous but excited for how our chapter would evolve because of this challenge.
==Highlights In spite of 2011==the chaos, September rolled around, and the Kappas were back. With a crazy Longhorn In 2011football win against Notre Dame, Beta Xi focused on strengthened sisterhood we began our classes with excitement and encouraging scholarly achievementour horns up high! We continued holding chapter meetings in the Student Union, our temporary home. A The first meeting ran smoothly as chapter retreat was held for council got back in the benefit swing of things, and the new members learned the ins and outs of their new chapter. Following the events of Bid Day, we were visited by Emily Murdock and Illiana Garcia, our Theta District director and specialist. They helped our Chapter Council remember the “why?” of our chapter, as well as realign the goals of Beta Xi with that of the national organization. They inspired our leaders to be better and “get-to-know-you” games were played at lead our chapter out of this slump. They began helping us build a strategic plan to improve our chapter and help us rectify the mistakes of the Kappa houseweeks prior. Sisterhood activities included Nightmare on 6th StreetWeeks passed, with the first formal meeting held by Hannah Love (Marshal) and program nights like the one featuring Shannon Moody, where we learned about the Jeremiah Project, Tri-Delt Rancha center for single mothers, Kappa Cocktailorganized by Caroline Smyrl (Fraternity Education Chairman). Hailey Becker (VP Organization) revamped committee nights, and Monmouthhelping each committee set goals for the semester. The Vice We also had an exciting visit from the Fraternity President-Beth Black, held at an alumni’s house in Austin. It was incredible for some of our officers to meet such an inspiring leader of the organization that we love so much. Erin Kreindler (VP Academic Excellence stressed ) was happy to report that 13 of our chapter members received 4.0 GPA’s in the spring, and the chapter’s cumulative GPA was 3.47, as the grade report came in. Kappa competed in the importance second annual Greek Get Down dance competition—and though we didn’t place like we did last year, we had so much fun dancing! Much of good grades with the team was made up of our new “Smarty Pants” system at chapter meetings. Alumnae members are often invited , so it was a great way for freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors to campus all get to speak know one another. Mallory Morris (Event Chairman) organized our first fun event, Kappa Kidnap, at a dance hall outside of Austin. With cowboy boots and dresses on, the Kappas danced the night away to country music from a live band. Soon enough the chapter about job applications and careerssemester was in full swing.
'''Housing:'''October was yet another busy month for Beta Xi is currently one . The TX-OU football game was a blast, even though our beloved Longhorns lost. Mallory Morris (Event Chairman) planned a fun date event with Tri-Delt, and ended the month with our traditional Halloween dance, called Owl-o-ween, with Chi Omega. We absolutely love doing events with our friends in other sororities! But double the girls, means double the amount of only two Greek houses on people trying to safely get home. Despite some bumps in the University of Texas at Austin campus road in our risk management policies in whichthe past, Grace Winston (Risk Management Chair) and Anna Wittenmyer (VP Standards) did an amazing job encouraging everyone to follow our policies. 60 members are able to liveThe buddy system became more successful as the semester went on, and as well as bus riding attendance. Hannah Love (Marshal) did a stellar job planning and executing Initiation, most usually live in during their junior or senior our second yearwithout a house. Every MondayInitiation was held in a different church than the year before, but Hannah was calm in the sisters gather face of chaos, and the event ran as smoothly as ever. The newly initiated members had a wonderful morning, and afterwards joined their parents and friends for dinner before a fun brunch at Hotel Ella near campus. Caroline Smyrl (Fraternity Education Chairman) did an outstanding job planning Founder’s Day. The event was held at AT&T Conference Center. Actives and alumnae alike enjoyed stories from alums, songs from the chapter meetingKappa pickers, and lunch is provided every day for membersa presentation by the House Board, who has worked so hard on the house renovations. Every two weeksHannah Love (Marshal), Kaki Miller (Key Sis Chair), and Tai Massimilian (New Member Chairman) worked together to organize a delicious Mexican Guest Lunch is held where “Big Sis, Little Sis” event with photos by the University Tower, then on to fun event at a trampoline park! Avery Travis (Registrar) planned composites, and the Kappas can bring a guest “smiled pretty” for their photos. Avery coordinated with the same company from outside of the Fraternityyear before to have composites taken in the Union. Our temporary home at the Union was really starting to feel like ours own—we had taken over! Many chapter members said they will actually miss our makeshift Union “house.”
'''Philanthropy:'''In November the semester was quickly wrapping up. Mallory Morris (Event Chairman) did a great job planning a fun parent’s weekend and a Kappa Kasual, our last event of the semester. The event was held at Cedar Street Courtyard downtown, with a fun live band. Then came the tumultuous 2016 Beta Xi Presidential Election that divided our campus. Kappas went out and voted for their choice, but our nation was not the only thing that was struggling to unify in the face of adversity. Ellen and theofficers continued hosting the spring Easter party to edit and work on the fall Halloween party Strategic Plan for local elementary students every upcoming year. In 2011 With Ellen’s great vision and the help of the national organization itself, our specialists and the chapter members, we were able to construct a plan that would allow Kappa Cookout to grow in the coming years. Avery Travis (Registrar) was again held by elected slate chairman, and worked extremely hard to conduct meetings with her dedicated and passionate slate committee to nominate the chapter and raised $7officers for next year. This year was tougher than ever,800 with so many great candidates stepping up for officer positions. The Slate Committee knew how important these choices were, considering the Davis Moon Projectissues from Bid Day, an organization previously supported by Beta Xi’s effortsthe strategic plan, and the new trajectory that Kappa was on—in order to improve and come back stronger. The committee worked hard to pick the best possible girls for the chapter council of 2017. Kappa once again faced off The committee gave the slate presentation at meeting in a game of powder puff football against Pi PhiNovember, an event that raised approximately $5and officer transitions began quickly after,000 for and the Austin Children’s Shelternew and old Chapter Councils began working together. As usual, Kappas were able to come together to create a unified group of sisterhood and friendship.
==Highlights of 2012==November turned quickly into December, with only one week in between Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks for some girls. Hailey Becker (VP Organization) planned a wonderful Leadership Day at a The 2012 calendar year started off with delcicious restaurant, where the newly elected new and old officers of can get together with their advisors and go over the Beta Xi chapter making a smooth transition into their new positions. Chapter Council also kicked off expectations and goals for the upcoming year by hosting the LEAD seminar with Kappas from Texas A&M and Texas Tech. The Our chapter councilworked hard to get through final exams and the end of the semester, led by President with Erin Weitzel, met every Sunday evening to plan upcoming meetings and Kreindler (VP Academic Excellance) planning yummy Study Snack events throughout the weeks of finals! The Kappas wrapped up a long but fun year. Erin implemented pillars of organization and enthusiasm which set the tone for the chapter council officers. This 2016 was a very important challenging but incredible year for growth for the Beta Xi chapter.Despite challenges from the house renovation, the political and campus climate, and many improvements were made to better our own behavioral issues and changes, our chapter this past year. The officers worked very hard grew stronger and closer than ever, evolving to better become the best chapter we can be. We cannot wait to move into our beautiful new home, and efficiently we look forward to taking on 2017, equipped with everything we have learned and effectively follow out their duties.the goals we plan to accomplish in the next year!
Callie Williams, Vice President of Organization, maintained an organized calendar of all Describe the events throughout the year recent changes on your campus and communicated with officers and the chapter about what events to put on the calendar. Along with Callie the Chapter Council put together a great Leadership Action Plan that highlighted describe the goals overall nature of the Chapter for the upcoming year. Callie also assisted with giving your chapter members the ability to fill out a Google Form to indicate which committee they are interested in and would prefer to be in, rather than simply designating members to random committee. This was a big change for our Chapter Committees that made members at large much more dedicated to their committee. Callie also prepared for the Leadership Consultant's visit to the the Beta Xi Chapter and hosted her during her stay.
Laurel PuglieseCampus climate was tense in 2016, Vice President as it was much of Standardsthe world. Yet another Student Government election occurred on campus in the Spring, worked this time with her committee to perfect the bus system a Beta Xi running for office. Racial tensions and a new campus carry law caused protests and make sure members were upholding fractured our student body. The year culminated in one of the standards most controversial Presidential Elections ever, occurring in November. Our own chapter faced some of the Fraternity policybiggest pitfalls and hardships we have ever faced. We lost loved ones and made mistakes. But through all of this, Beta Xi Kappa persevered together. We stood up for our beliefs and for each other, admitted our faults, and grew into a stronger chapter. Laurel also organized Our chapter is well known at the Chapter retreat at Alamo Draft house University of Texas for being involved in and well liked by all groups on campus. Kappas are friendly, open-minded, intelligent and active in university life. Kappas are so well integrated and involved in our diverse on-campus commitments, that our main goal in January 2016 was to encourage increase Beta Xi chapter-wide bondingunity. All In spite of a rocky campus climate and our own troubles within Beta Xi attended for singing and dancing , we hoped to 90's musicincrease the bond of sisterhood in our chapter. Laurel also planned many events for Doing so without a home during the house renovations proved to be a challenge, but our chapter did a great job finding ways to unite, around causes like our philanthropy and each other’s successes.Chapter Philanthropy:What organization(s) has your chapter historically/traditionally raised money for, or donated hours to increase bonding such as movies at the house or profit shares at Red Mango. , in your community?Wooldrige Elementary, RIF, B+ Foundation (new this year)
Ady WetegroveThis year, Vice President Academic Excellence, helped Berkley Johnson (Philanthropy Chair) completely revamped and re-energized our Chapter improve our overall GPA philanthropic efforts. Kappa adopted another philanthropy in addition to be above the All Sorority Average Reading Is Fundamental. The B+ Foundation raises money for cancer research and pairs sororities and fraternities nationwide with a “Hero:” a child battling cancer. We were paired with our Hero, Moriah. She is an eight-year-old girl with cancer, and the Spring of 2012. newest and youngest Beta Xi Kappa ever! She gets to wear our letters, come to some fun events, and her committee held individuals more accountable for their individual grades while providing them assistancebe a part of our Kappa family. She also incorporated “office hours” for New Members Beta Xi embraced our newest sister with love and any other members needing further guidance during registration for the Spring 2013 semesterpride. She also organized study snacks Kappas made visits to her at the house on Tuesday hospital, had her over to our apartments, took her to Mozart’s Coffee Shop to see Christmas lights, made her a scrapbook and continued the "Smarty Pants" system from last yearbattled her disease alongside her. And we are thrilled to report that her cancer is in remission! We hoped to be a light in Moriah’s life this year…but it turns out that Moriah remained a shining light for our chapter, uniting us in some of our hardest seasons.
Philanthropy Chairman Margaret Smith and Assistant Philanthropy Chairs Ellen Perkins and Courtney Catalani worked together We remained passionate about encouraging childhood reading, as well! From profit shares organized by chapter members to plan all chapter-wide philanthropy events. Margaret made some changes this year a book drive to our program with annual fundraiser, we definitely did not let our passion for this issue fall by the national philanthropy, Reading is Fundamentalwayside. She planned We have a Reading Festival great relationship with Wooldridge Elementary where we have our annual RIF event every spring for the whole chapter to attend to teach kids and spend the day working with them and having fun with kids. She also planned a book drive so that each kid could take home a book. Margaret also helped plan Kappa Cookout in the FallThis year, Pi Phi vs. Kappa philanthropy powder puff game Berkley added an event there in the springfall, and got members involved with the Wonderball where we went dressed up as princesses and helped with face paint and costumes. Margaret provided well! Half the chapter with many volunteered at the elementary school on a Saturday, while the other volunteer activities such as Kisses from Kappa on Valentines Day where we took valentine goodies half gave their time to a retirement homeNeighborhood Longhorns tutoring program.
Sara Beth Tunnel, Event Chairman, worked hard to plan and schedule all of the social events for the year. She worked very closely with Risk Management to plan events that would be safe and uphold the Fraternity standards. She found fun and unique venues to host events with other sororities or parents of Kappas. In 2012 she planned Kappa Pi Phi Monmouth, Kappa Mom's Weekend, Kappa Dad's Weekend, Kappa Date Dash, Kappa Chi O Owloween, Kappa Tri Delt Ranch, Kappa Parent's Weekend, Kappa Kidnap, and Kappa Cocktail. These events were fun, safe, organized, and help brought the chapter closer together.
Kelsey Koentges, Pubic Relations Chairman, did a great job While we await the opening of helping keep members active and bridged the gap between the chapterour newly renovated house on University Avenue, university, parents, and alums. She created a monthy newsletter to send out to parents of Kappas and we have been renting rooms in the Beta Xi UT Union building for chapter. She also planned the Easter meetings and Halloween party, both were held at the house for alumni and their childrenour chapter lunches. She helped organize the babysitting list and the Kappa Chirstmas card which was sent out to other UT sororities and families of Beta Xi members. Kelsey also kept the system of the "Round Up Newsletter which summarized the year It is usually a large meeting room with screens and sent it out to dining space in the Chapterback.
Kathryn UeckerOral HistoryAre there any current members, Fraternity Education Chairman, was in charge of planning program nights at alumnae or advisers from your chapter that you recommend for the house. She provided the chapter Fraternity’s oral history project? We are looking for Kappas with fun speakers and programs such as Zumba. Another large improvement was made by Kathryn by re-implement Senior Programming stories to tell – a once a month program night for Seniors in place funny chapter memories, great professional achievement stories, heartwarming stories of meeting. Kathryn also planned Founders Day in October where the Beta Xi chapter recognizes the founding members and hosts an event for alumni in the Austin areahow Kappa has helped them, etc.
Mary Beth BurgherKathryn Stouffer, Membership Chairmancurrent member, assisted by Sullivan Franklin-Mitchelloutgoing PR Chair Sarah Shaw, Isabel Danncurrent member, Molly Henson outgoing House Chair Tricia Cury, former president and Kat Schindler succesfully prepared for Recruitment. They held 3 recruitment workshops in the spring to plan for recruitment in the fall. They also implemented new fun ways to celebrate recruitment such as having members talk about their favorite parts of recruitment during chapter meetings. They set up different committes and helped implement new change. recent alum Chandler Foster, recent alumHannah Meehan, Beta Xi greeted the largest pledge class in Kappa history and we celebrated the new members on Bid Day by taking them to Abel's on the Lake for a fun dinner. Chapter Council advisor
Katie Satterwhite, New Member Chairman, worked hard alongside Avery Walker to integrate the new members into the chapter. They organized many different activities for the new members and helped bring them together as a pledge class and as a chapter. They taught the new members the traditions and history ==Highlights of Kappa. They worked alongside Caroline Cooper our Marshall to teach the New members the rituals of Kappa after Initiation. They made Inspiration week fun for the new members and helped Caroline with Initation. 2017==
Kelly BowmanThe Beta Xi Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma had an excellent year of growth and bonding in2017. In January, a new group of Chapter Council members began meeting and carrying on thelegacy of excellent, cooperative leadership our chapter has had in recent years. Hannah Love wasPresident, Tai Massimilian was VP Standards, Kaki Miller was VP Organization, Payton Scott wasVP Academic Excellence, Lauren Fisher was Recording Secretary, Emily Parnell wasCorresponding Secretary, Cameron Shepherd was Membership Chairman, Sarah Gregory was NewMember Chairman, Camille Szelc was Treasurer, Jennifer Harbour was Assistant Treasurer,Emma Riddle was Philanthropy Chairman, Hallie Smith was Event Chairman, Caroline Smyrl wasRegistrar, Grace Winston was House Chairman, served Charlotte Fitzpatrick was Marshal, AudreyHalbrook was Risk Management Chairman, Regan Ewing was Panhellenic Delegate, TessaLauritzen was the Public Relations Chairman, and Allison Ainsworth was Education Chairman.2017’s Chapter Council has worked tremendously hard to implement our strategic plan to get ourchapter back in good standing with both Kappa nationals and the university.By far the most exciting thing for our chapter in 2017 has been being able to be back in our newlyremodeled house! We have been so grateful for the Beta Xi House Board and all the time, money,energy, and thought that they put into the plans to remodel our historic chapter house. Before thebeginning of school, the House Board hosted an open house for alumnae, donors, families, andmembers to view the amazing changes to the house. It was such a special time for Beta Ximembers of all ages to come together and share in the excitement of the opening. The very nextday, active members moved in, and the house immediately sprang to life. It has been such ablessing for the chapter to have a common meeting grounds again and to share meals together,study together, and have our meetings as a liason chapter in the house.Also in January, Hannah (President) began Chapter Council meetings by having all of ChapterCouncil read the Strategic Plan for our chapter’s Warning of Probation and review the goals andcalendar we had set for the semester. Some of our goals included improvement in chaptermanagement, recruitment, new member experience and programming, standards and riskmanagement, and panhellenic leadership. Hannah also scheduled and coordinated a meetingbetween Chapter Council and Katherine Latta, our Leadership Development specialist, for aStrategic Plan workshop and a discussion over Start With Why , a book that all of Chapter Councilhad read over Christmas break. During our first Chapter meeting of the semester, Hannah wentover the strategic plan, emphasizing its importance for all members, and reading our ChapterMission Statement. Tai (VPS) also went over standards behavioral expectations during the firstmeeting and also held elections for the new Standards Committee members. Grace (House Chair)organized an Orientation for the in -house girlsfrom House Board to explain the rules andorganization of the house. Grace and Tai also gave a presentation to the chapter during the firstmeeting about respecting our newly remodeled house. Cameron (Membership Chair) also held aworkshop for the freshmen on a Sunday at the end of the month to teach them the ins and outs ofrecruitment on the other side and to emphasize the importance of our strategic goals for therecruitment process.February began with a visit from our Leadership Consultant, Maddy. Kaki (VPO) organized agreat week in Austin for her, staffand chapter council enjoyed spending time with her at the house andmeeting with her individually to discuss ways to improve each office. Hallie (Event Chair) andAudrey (Risk Management) planned a great Monmouth formal with the Pi Phis at Palm Door.Everyone had a great night with their dates, dancing with the band all night and Miss Juditaking pictures inthe photo booth. Emily (Corresponding Secretary) also gave a presentation to the chapter on theGIN system, which the officers have been using more effectively throughout the year tocommunicate information to the chapter. Sarah (New Member) also finalized the plans for the newmember bid day retreat in the Fall, which was something that our chapter had never done before. She helped organize did an excellent job planning and communicating to Chapter Council, and Reagan(Panhellenic) discussed our exciting plans with other chapters, who followed Kappas lead inimplementing an off-campus retreat in their bid day plans rather than releasing the girls aftermidnight.March was another exciting month for Beta Xi with lots of events and clarify activities for our actives to allbond. Cameron (Membership) hosted another recruitment workshop for the freshmen where shebegan to teach them the songs and dances. Her and her team began to familiarize the freshmenwith more details of recruitment week. They also met with the newly appointed area assistant todevelop strategies. In the middle of the month, the doors of Kappa locked and the chapterdispersed across the country and the world for a fun-filled Spring Break! As soon as everyonereturned from their trips, Emma (Philanthropy) began getting everyone excited for the upcomingphilanthropy opportunities. In the week after Spring Break, she encouraged the entire chapter toget their families and friends to participate in the B+ Campaign. The campaign was acampus-wide competition before the Round Up weekend, and Kappa proudly raised around$4,000. Emma also planned our annual Pi Phi Kappa Karnival event, hosted at the Pi Phi house points system with live music, snow cones, face painting, and selecting 60 a petting zoo. Beta Xi raised $6,000 from Karnival todonate to RIF! During April, we said goodbye to our house mom, Ms. Judi. We are so grateful forthe years she spent making sure the Beta Xi house felt like a home for all the members . Hallie(Events) wrapped up the month by planning an awesome Dad’s Weekend. The chapter enjoyeddinner with their dad’s at Dirty Martin’s on Friday, and the next day everyone got to enjoy a tour of the Kappa house and a private tour of the Darrell K. Royal Memorial Football Stadium! We alsohad very productive chapter meetings during March. In fulfillment of our probation terms with theUniversity, we had an informative and interactive alcohol awareness presentation from UniversityHealth Services. Although it was a required program, the entire chapter found it interesting andhelpful to live understand the best way to socialize responsible in a college environment. Kaki (VPO)also continued to work on making Committee Chapter Meetings a fun way for every member tofeel like they contribute to our chapter. She restructured the Committee Night schedule to makesure that committees completed their agendas.In April, the semester was in full swing and we had another great month for Beta Xi. At thebeginning of the month, we welcomed our new house mom, Ms. Sherri to the Beta Xi house! Wehave loved the life, love and warmth she has brought to her house with her constant cheeriness andfamous shortbread. Nicole Covert, our Recruitment Advisor, received the award for OutstandingAdvisor from University Fraternity and Sorority Life. Nicole is more than deserving of this award.Not only does she put in countless hours of work for our chapter, but she is an outstanding mom,friend, and volunteer. We are so proud and thankful to have her as part of our amazing advisoryboard! Tessa (PR) also planned an Easter Party at the Kappa house, with an Easter egg hunt,cookie decorating, pictures, and more fun. Hallie (Event Chair) planned two great events duringApril. We had another fun semi-formal, Kite and Key, with Theta at the Summit. She met also plannedan awesome Mom’s Weekend, with a shopping event at Adelante on Friday, a dinner at Max’s, andbrunch at the house on Saturday. Cameron (Membership) closed out the month with achapter-wide recruitment workshop, the last workshop of the semester. In accordance with ourStrategic Plan, the recruitment team updated the members on Panhellenic and Kappa NationalsrulesIn May, things at the Beta Xi house started to quiet down as all the members began to prepare fortheir finals and the semester came to an end. Before everyone dispersed for the summer. Allison(Education) conducted the Senior Sendoff, a humorous and sentimental event where the seniorsget to share funny memories from their college years and share what their next chapter has in storefor them as they leave UT and Kappa. The Alumnae Board also gave a presentation to the seniorsto tell them about the opportunities the Kappa alumnae network has for them. Caroline (Registrar)also put them on alumnae status on Key Reports. Chapter Council ended the spring by settinggoals and preparing for the upcoming semester. Grace (House) worked with the staff Sophomores toget roommate requests for the upcoming year. Sarah (New Member) and Cameron (Membership)continued to make plans for recruiting new members and making their experience in Kappa thebest ever.Over the summer, the members of Beta Xi parted ways for summer school, internships, and studyabroad experiences. Tessa (PR) collected photos from all the different adventures to post on ourchapter’s Tumblr, Instagram, and other social media accounts. Cameron, her team, and the areaassistants worked extremely hard all summer to prepare for recruitment week, and all of their effortpaid off. We had a fun and successful work week and recruitment week in August. We happilywelcomed 73 new members to their home at 2001 University Avenue on Bid Day! Sarah’s plan forthe new member bid day retreat at Camp Balcones Springs was very well received, and all the newKappas had an enjoyable and safe time playing games and getting to know their new sisters intheir pledge class.In September, school came in full swing, and the chapter enjoyed spending time together, eatingmeals at the house, studying together, and Miss Judi attending football games. Chapter Council worked to make sure that the New Members really felt that the Beta Xi house was running smoothly their home on campus.Grace (House) got all of their fingerprints in our lock system, and Emily (CorrespondingSecretary) and Caroline (Registrar) entered their contact information into Key Reports and the GinSystem to make sure they received all chapter correspondence. After a post-recruitment meetingwith Panhellenic, Tai was happy to report to the chapter that we had significantly reduced ourfines from previous years! Before the first date event, Tai also gave a presentation to the entirechapter during meeting to lay out expectations and the standards that we hold each other to insocial settings. Hallie and Audrey planned our fun destination date event, Kappa Kasual, at theOasis. Although the event was cut short by the event staff for behavioral problems, ChapterCouncil took the opportunity as an experience to make a better Risk Management plan for themembers before date functions. Tai, Hannah, and Hallie gave a presentation at chapter meetingthe following week to re-emphasize the importance of safety during social events and the privilegeit is for us to be able to have these functions. We also used our Committee Night to to get feedbackfrom the entire chapter and brainstorm ideas about how we can improve our date events to makethem as safe and enjoyable as possible! It was an excellent way for our members to come togetherand resolve a chapter-wide problem. Payton (VPAE) recognized the members who had received a4.0 GPA the previous semester during chapter and gave them a goody bag. Her and her committeealso decided to give goody bags to members who had made a 3.8, deciding that their hard workshould also be noted. Caroline (Registrar) also scheduled the composite photos for the chapter atthe end of the month.October was a busy month with many exciting chapter events to celebrate our heritage and history!Tai (VPS) and Audrey (Risk Management) continued to work on Risk Management policies forthe chapter and gave presentations before TX-OU Football weekend and our Owl-O-Ween Dateevent on safety and behavior. The members had a fun weekend in Dallas for the football game,spending time with each other and rocking all of their new Kappa t-shirts and gear made byFavors. Allison (Education) also planned a wonderful Founder’s Day dinner. The event was hostedat AT&T Conference center, and it was a great time for the chapter and Austin alumnae tocelebrate the history of our fraternity. We enjoyed a wonderful meal together, presentations fromthe advisors and attended house board meetings, and music from Pickers. Charlotte (Marshal) and Emma(Philanthropy) rallied a group of our members to participate in Greek Get Down, a dancecompetition fundraiser hosted by AEPhi to support the B+ Foundation. The members whoparticipated had so much fun getting to know each other and representing Kappa at the event.Charlotte (Marshal) did an amazing job planning and coordinating Inspiration Week at the end ofOctober. The new members were put in their new Kappa families on big-little on Tuesday, Fridaywas Fireside, and on Saturday we happily initiated all of our new members as actives! Sarahplanned a brunch for the new actives and their families at AT&T following the ceremony. Beforeour Owl-O-Ween date event with Chi-O, Audrey put a new wristband process and bus buddysystem into place to make sure that we did not repeat the same problems we had at Kasual. Hallie(Events) planned the event at Clearport and the night was a huge success. Tessa also planned aHalloween Trick-Or-Treat party at the house for alumnae to bring their kids. The in-house girlsdecorated their rooms, put out candy, played with all of the kids, and had a great time!Nothing slowed down in November, with many events and lots of time together for the chapter tobond! Kaki hosted the Leadership Consultant, Casey, at the Kappa house and all of the officersenjoyed meeting her and hearing the ways that she thought we had improved within the last year.Hallie organized a fun Parent’s Weekend, with desserts on Friday night at Concrete Cowboy andBar-B-Que at the house before the football game on Saturday! Hallie finished her term as EventsChairman with a bang by planning our last semi-formal of the semester, Kappa Klassic, atSpeakeasy, and the chapter danced all night to the jazz band. Regan (Panhellenic) continued tomeet with Panhellenic to discuss changes to the bylaws and did an outstanding job of respectfullypresenting our chapter’s stance on the proposals. Our chapter also elected Riley Longtain as SlateChairman at the beginning of the month, and her and her committee put in so many hours pouringover applications and nominating officers for 2018. Elections were held, and we are so proud of andexcited for the upcoming Chapter Council! We know they will carry on the legacy of hard work andthoughtfulness that Beta Xi officers are known for!In December, the semester began to wrap up as the weather changed and finals approached. Kelly provided gifts Kakiplanned a leadership brunch at the house for the staff throughout old Chapter Council, the new Chapter Council,and their advisors. It was a wonderful time to share all of the accomplishments of the past yearandto transition the new officers into their positions. She Emma also organized Sunday dinners planned the final Philanthropy eventfor RIF at Wooldridge Elementary. The upperclassmen contributed to a book drive that Kappadonated to the school. The underclassmen got to spend a Saturday morning at Wooldridge,playing basketball with the kids, painting their faces, and getting them excited about their newbooks. 2017 has been a great year of unity and growth for Beta Xi. We have so enjoyed being ableto spend time in our beautifully newly-renovated house girls , and we are excited for all the memoriesthat will come there in 2018!Describe the recent changes on your campus and describe the overall nature of your chapter.We welcomed a new football coach, Tom Herman, in 2017, and it has been an exciting time for ourteam as they continue to improve. There were provided also several emergency incidents on campus thisyear, causing the campus to unify and rally around support for mental health and campus safety.Our chapter is known on campus for being a well-rounded and open minded group of youngladies. We are proud to have so many members involved in other organizations and makingimportant changes on our campus and in Austin. Beta Xi allows its members to be the bestversions of themselves, and we love that those things are reflected in our house as well as on ourcampus!Chapter Philanthropy:What organization(s) has your chapter historically/traditionally raised money for, or donated hours to, inyour community? Wooldridge Elementary, B+ FoundationWhy did your chapter choose this organization(s) to support?We have had a great relationship with Wooldridge Elementary School throughout the years. Severalof our members enjoy our RIF events so much at Wooldridge that they volunteer independentlythere as mentors. Our chapter even received an award from local Austin restaurantsthe Wooldridge Elementary School forour outstanding volunteer work with their school.Several sororities and fraternities on campus have also adopted B+ heroes, who are kids battlingcancer. Beta Xi has adopted a sweet little girl, named Moriah, who comes to the house about oncea week. We feel like Moriah is one of our sisters, and it has been such a joy for our chapter tosupport her and her family as she goes through her journey. Moriah is one of the reasons ourchapter has been so passionate about fundraising for the B+ Foundation, and we are proud of themoney we have raised for such an awesome organization!Chapter Facility:In what kind of a facility does your chapter meet? Please attach a clear photo of where you typically holdchapter meetings – whether in a classroom, chapter house or elsewhere.We have a beautiful newly renovated house. We use our main dining room as the chapter room,where hold meetings throughout the year.
Sarah Snelling, Treasurer, was in charge on handling the chapters finances. She worked extremely hard to make sure that the new Bill Highway system was working well and that members could understand how to use it. She was in charge of the dues, budget for Chapter Counci, and any other charges that needed to be made. She also worked to reinburse members and offiers and worked with favors to bill members through bill highway.
Ksenia Kolesnikova, Panhellenic Delegate, served as the liason between Panhellenic and Beta Xi. She represented the chapter by voting for Panhellenic initatives. She also attended meetings each week and reported back to the Chapter about new policies set by Panhellenic. This was a big year in the Nation's history. President Obama was reelected as President ==Highlights of the United States and Kappas gathered in the living room to watch the events unfold and watch the weekly debates between candidates. Many Kappas donated to the different campaigns and almost every Kappa participated in voting. Another big event in 2012 was the London Olympics. A few Beta Xi members actually attended events at the Olympics. Beta Xi members were involved in many different organizations worldwide from volunteering in South Africa to traveling to South America for mission work. 2018==
Campus: Beta Xi is very involved with the University of Texas. We try to promote members of the chapter to be involved in different organizations on campus. Many Kappas are members of honors societies such as the Dean's list or Order of Omega. A few Kappas participate in Student Government and the Texas Athletic program. There were a few changes that were made to our campus in 2012 such as adding new buildings, banning smoking on campus, and having the library open 24 hours a day.
Chapter: The 2018-19 school year began with a new Beta Xi Chapter Council ready to work hard and continue the amazing work of the previous council. The new Chapter Council was comprised of many new members, as well as some returning faces. Camille Szelc advanced from the role of Treasurer to President, and Jennifer Harbour took her place, moving up from Assistant Treasurer. Helen Williams took over the role as Assistant Treasurer, the only sophomore position on Chapter Council. Emma Riddle and Tessa Lauritzen returned to their respective positions of Philanthropy Chairman and Public Relations Chairman for the second year in a row. Carter Pittman was VP Standards, Charlotte Fitzpatrick was VP Organization,Peyton Travis was VPAE, Emily Parnell was Recording Secretary, Linda Castranova was Corresponding Secretary, Caroline Cannan was Membership Chairman, Cameron Crawford was New Member Chairman, Madison Rigby was Event Chairman, Cameron Shepherd was Registrar, Katie Bell was House Chairman, Lexie Alexander was Marshal, Sarah Boatwright was Risk Management Chairman, Kate Kaiser was Panhellenic Delegate, and Paige Nelson was Education Chair. As the year began, Camille (President) got the Chapter Council in order by determining a set time for weekly meetings. She efficiently created an easy way for all Council members to communicate, set up a Google Drive folder for notes and forms, and reviewed the necessary expectations and responsibilities of Chapter Council officers. The Council discussed their personal and group goals for the semester, focusing mostly on encouraging attendance and bolstering chapter has many strengths morale throughout the year. To build a stronger community within the chapter, Carter (VP Standards) created a Kappa Kompliments box where members could leave encouraging notes to fellow Kappas to be read out at chapter. Cameron (Registrar) made sure Key Reports was in order and allowed access to the new officers. Jennifer (Treasurer) worked with the Chapter Council to set budgets for the 2018 spring semester and continued with billing of the chapter for the new semester. Linda (Corresponding Secretary) introduced her goal of moving everything over from the ListServe system to GinSystem and began the switch. Peyton (VPAE) started off the year by creating a consistent schedule of study snacks, available every Tuesday as a place for chapter members to take a mental break and grab a cookie or two. At the first chapter of the year, Camille (President) did a great job of welcoming everyone back and some weaknesses that we improved introduced transfers. The chapter voted on a new Standards Committee and AE Committee. To begin the process of recruitment, Caroline (Membership) sent out Area Rush Captain Applications to be due at the end of the month. Sophomores are encouraged to apply to be an Area Rush Captain as a fun way to get more involved in recruitment and assist the rush team in 2012the busy months to come. In early February, the first formal chapter of the year was held. Camille (President) and four other officers attended Ladder of Risk, a workshop designed to introduce the FIGP policy and build a community between fellow sorority and fraternity leaders. Emma (Philanthropy) began the application for GIRLS Academy, an opportunity for Kappa chapters to partner with and mentor young girls from a local middle school. As a chapter , Beta Xi raised over $1,000 for RIF at an event held by Outdoor Voices and was named one of the 20 highest donating KKG chapters. Charlotte (VPO) did a great job of placing chapter members into their respective committees, based off of their requests and needs of the officers. Kate (Panhellenic Delegate) sought to build better relationships between the Beta Xi chapter and Panhellenic by encouraging members to apply to be a Rho Gam for the following year’s recruitment. Cameron (Registrar) planned “Rom Com of the Month” around Valentine’s Day, featuring a night with popcorn, candy, and cheesy movies. The Kappas joined Pi Beta Phi for Monmouth, a wonderful formal event held at The Belmont. Everyone had a blast at the Masqueradethemed party, spending the night dancing to the band, posing for photo booth pictures, or coming up with a crazy design to request from the face painters. Paige (Education) planned an interesting and informative program night about self-defense, focusing on what we can do as women if we are extremely unifiedplaced in a threatening situation. The past two years of rush teams met with Caroline (Membership) and her rush team at a triplicate meeting, allowing them to impart their advice and wisdom. Caroline (Membership) also began meeting with Panhellenic at bimonthly Recruitment Roundtables as a way to learn the rules and routines of recruitment and led her first rush workshop with PC’ 17. On the last chapter of February, Alumnae Relations Specialist for Theta District, Amy Sutton, visited to announce to the chapter that the Warning of Probation had been lifted. The month ended with a Ritual Workshop held by Lexie (Marshall) as a way to refresh the chapter’s memory of important Kappa history. March came and went quickly with the nice week of Spring Break to give everyone a break from school. Emma (Philanthropy) invited the founders of the B+ Foundation to come speakto the chapter. They educated the chapter about their mission and main goals, while also introducing their Roundup fundraising campaign. Peyton (VPAE) held a wonderful Professor Dinner at the Kappa house, giving the members of our chapter a chance to get to know their esteemed professors in a more intimate setting. Throughout She designed coffee cups as a party favor so that each professor would remember the hospitality displayed by each girl. Before Spring Break, the Not On My Campus committee gave a brief but informative presentation on staying safe and watching out for your sisters during the break. The next week, Kappas set off all grades girls are over the country, exploring new places, relaxing at home, or visiting friends studying abroad in foreign countries. After Spring Break, the chapter nominated Avery Campbell as the new Nominating Committee Chair Representative. Emma (Philanthropy) also joined forces with Pi Phi to throw Kappa Pi Phi Karnival. The event was held in the front yard of the Pi Phi house with cotton candy, face paint, and even a mechanical bull! Chapter members sold wristbands to their friends , encouraging them to stop by as a kickoff party for Roundup Weekend. Tessa (PR) invited alumni and spend lots friends to the house that Sunday for a fun Easter party. Alumni were welcome to bring their children for a fun afternoon of cookie decorating and egg hunting. Cameron (New Member) began discussing Bid Day with Chapter Council, throwing around ideas and asking for the opinions of time togetherthe chapter. Madison (Event) planned a completely new event, naming the party “Kappa Krush”. Every day you can see many Chapter members secretly invited dates for their friends, but the girls across campus did not find out until their date found them wearing their tie at the party! Everyone was excited to try something new, and the event held Vulcan was a huge success. April was another busy month for the Beta Xi chapter as the school year began wrapping up. Camille (President) and Kate (Panhellenic Delegate) presented the new Diversity and Inclusion Statement written by Panhellenic to the chapter and encouraged members to apply for the new Diversity and Inclusion committee. Katie (House) sent out new room assignments to the sophomores eagerly awaiting their year living in the house. To continue boosting morale, Carter (VP Standards) and the standards committee planned a night at the baseball park for fun sisterhood event in early April. The Kappas took over the stands, eating hot dogs and cheering on the UT baseball team as they took on the Baylor Bears. Peyton (VPAE) recognized girls in the chapter who received a 4.0 in the fall and also announced that the chapter had moved up in the UPC GPA rankings to the 7th position! The new members advanced even higher, ranking 3rd. Chapter members visited Wooldridge Elementary for their biannual Reading is Key event, engaging the students through basketball, bracelet making, and of course, dance parties! Each student got to leave with a few books donated by the members of our chapter. Cameron (Registrar) planned this month’s “Rom Com of the Month” around The Bachelor, having a fun night of snacks and gossip as chapter members gathered together to watch the finale. Caroline (Membership) held two recruitment workshops this month, re-familiarizing the entire chapter with the songs, chants, and strategies soon to be used. The recruitment team spent endless amounts of time meeting with the ARCs and taking on their respective roles to prepare for the summer months. They did a great job of introducing new changes and getting the chapter excited about a new season of recruitment! Paige (Education) planned a final wrap up event for the seniors at Painting With a Twist. The seniors got to visit a studio to recreate their own painting to take home, and they had a blast! Madison (Event) was busy this month, planning both the last date event of the year, Kite and Key, with Kappa shirtsAlpha Theta and Parent’s Weekend. The date event featured a fun band Cedar Street Courtyard. Instead of doing separate Mom’s and Dad’s weekends, Madison combined the two into one big Parent’s Weekend at the end of April. We are extremely proud On Friday, chapter members attended a joint shopping event and Happy Hour between Adelante and Santa Rita. To show off the new house, Kappa hosted a brunch for all parents before the UT baseball game. Towards the end of the month, the chapter welcomed back Casey, a Kappa Leadership Consultant. Each Chapter Council officer met with Casey to get advice and set goals for the next semester. Charlotte (VPO) did a great job in planning activities for Casey to introduce her to more of Austin. As a whole, the chapter was so grateful that Casey was able to make time to come back and visit again. The school year came to an end in May as Kappas began making their summer plans. Paige (Education) brought back the tradition of Chapter Awards, much to the surprise and excitement of the chapter. Outstanding Freshman went to Gigi Hanna, Outstanding Sophomore went to Risk Management Chair Sarah Boatwright, Outstanding Junior went to Peyton Bertram, and Outstanding Senior went to Hannah Love. Hannah was also presented the Eleanor Niggli-Tyler Award for outstanding contributions to Beta Xi Chapter Kappa Kappa Gamma. Kristen Graham won Lillian Lurker, a comedic award presented to a house girl who spent hours in the Lillian, our beloved living room. For outstanding contribution to the University of Texas and Kappa Kappa Gamma, senior Riley Longtain received the Braun-Maynard Award. Last, Sally Cisarik won the Heather Lynn Dealy Award, nicknamed the “Sunshine Award”. Paige (Education) also planned Senior Sendoff to honor those leaving us. Each senior received a small present from the chapter and announced their future plans. Jennifer (Treasurer) explained payment plans to the chapter, as she would begin billing for the Fall semester in August. During the summer months, Beta Xi Kappas set off to do wonderful things all over the world. Several members studied abroad, becoming familiar with the lifestyles in Spain, Italy, Croatia, and more. Older Kappas began internships and summer jobs, hoping to gain experience and make connections. Other members entered summer school or attended summer camps. To keep in touch, Tessa (PR) kept up the chapter’s various social media accounts, gathering pictures from everyone’s exciting summer experiences. Camille (President) and Emily (Corresponding Secretary) took off to Denver to attend the Kappa Convention. They had an incredible time getting to know Kappa chapters from all over the country and developing stronger relations with the advisors who attended as well. Beta Xi was lucky enough to win the advisory board of the year award for the chapter connections with the advisors. The most notable part of their trip was the presentation by Lawrence Ross, who came to UT this past Fall as well to discuss race relations in Sororities and Fraternities. Caroline (Recruitment) and her rush team stayed busy reviewing letters of recommendation, planning out the fun days of work week, and creating a strategy to use in the upcoming weeks. Chapter members moved back to Austin in early August to participate in a week of preparing for recruitment. Caroline (Recruitment) and members are very dedicated her team even surprised the chapter with a swimming barge as a way to cool off in the hot summer heat. A great work week led into an even better recruitment week. Beta Xiwas proud to show off the their unique personalities, and on Bid Day, we welcomed 68 amazing new girls into our chapter! The festivities planned by Cameron (New Member) included dinner at Matt’s El Rancho, a dance party, and a sleepover at the house for all new members. We lacked The girls loved getting to know their future sisters in a more intimate setting. The school year started up again in communication between September. Kappas welcomed the fall semester with open arms, entering new classes and cheering on the Longhorns football team. Chapter Council gathered together again on Sundays to communicate their semester goals and plan for how to achieve them. After an orientation put on by Katie (House), PC’ 16 moved into the house, enjoying the comfort of living so close to campus. The New Members eagerly explored their new home, eating meals together, studying in the basement, and showing off the house to their friends during guest lunches. They attended a New Member Orientation put on by Panhellenic to learn all of the policies and responsibilities expected of newmembers. Within Kappa,Cameron (Registrar) and Linda (Corresponding Secretary) worked with Cameron (New Member) to gather all of the New Member information to input them into the various systems. Linda (Corresponding Secretary) also gave a presentation on Ginsystem as the chapter officially moved over from ListServe. Carter (Standards) elected a new member to the Standards committee to replace the senior who graduated in May. Once again, Charlotte (VPO) worked on organizing committees in time for the first committee night. Peyton (VPAE) proudly announced that our chapter moved from 8th place to 4th place out of 14 sororities in the UPC GPA rankings with an average GPA of 3.5581. Cameron (New Member) began the New Member meetings before chapter each week to educate the New Members on various aspects of Kappa, introduce them to the Chapter Council officers, and answer any questions they had. The Kappas attended their first date event in late September, a fun, ranch style joint date event with Tri Delta. Our chapter was approved for GIRLS Academy, so Emma (Philanthropy) began working on those details. Tessa (PR) gathered pictures and stories from the summer to publish the summer newsletter. As October came around, energy in the house was at an all time high with the excitement of Halloween, the Texas-OU game, and our date event with Chi Omega. The month began with chapter composites planned by Cameron (Registrar). Avery Steen worked closely to pair the sophomores and New Members for Key Sis dates, giving the newer members a chance to spend time with their older sisters. Emma (Philanthropy) scheduled a bat tour for girls in the chapter to spend time with Moriah, our B+ Hero. In preparation for the big game in Dallas, Sarah (Risk Management) worked with the NOMC leaders to give a helpful presentation on the risks of party weekends and how to stay safe. She also organized a list of girls going to the game by fraternity so that all Kappas knew who to turn to if they needed help. On Friday, Kappas loaded up buses and cars to head to the Red River Rivalry. After a nerve-wracking game, the Longhorns came out on top with a 48-45 win. To celebrate Halloween, Madison (Event) planned our annual Owl-o-ween with Chi O. From Ghostbusters to movie stars, everyone enjoyed dressing up with their date. Tessa (PR) hosted a Halloween party at the house for alumni and their children. In-house girls participated by handing out candy in a mock trick-or-treat activity. Towards the end of the month, Kappas went back to Wooldridge Elementary to host their fall Reading is Key event. Everyone loved seeing the children again, and we even saw some returning faces! The month culminated with a sisterhood hangout with Kappa Delta. Kate (Panhellenic) invited the KDs into our house to build ice cream sundaes and socialize. November kicked off with a fun-filled Parent’s Weekend, featuring a great brunch at the house before a big football game against West Virginia. The following week was an amazing Inspiration Week planned by Lexie (Marshal). Casey the Leadership Consultant returned that week to act as a guide and mentor through all of the Initiation rituals. Chapter Council was so fortunate to have someone who knew our chapter so well to be there during this special week. The week began with Big-Little reveal as the new members were welcomed into their new families, dressing up and eating Amy’s ice cream. On Friday, Fireside was held at the house. After bonding all night, the new members were finally initiated early Saturday morning. To celebrate, Cameron (New Member) planned a wonderful brunch for the new actives and their families. The weekend culminated with Founder’s Day, a special event held each year to embrace our Kappa history and celebrate our esteemed alumni. This year, Paige (Education) planned Founder’s Day at the Kappa House as a way to show off our beautiful home and make the event more intimate. Kappa also participated in Greek Get Down, a dance competition put on by AEPhi to raise money for their philanthropy. Peyton (VPAE) held another Professor Dinner, giving the new actives a chance to talk to the people who led their classes each day. On the last Thursday in November, Kappas attended Kappa Klassic, a semi-formal held at Summit. Everyone had a blast, and Kappa commends Madison (Event) for the wonderful job she did planning events all year. The Slate committee worked endless hours, pouring over Chapter Council applications and debating who would be the next leaders of Kappa. After long nights, they presented their nominations to the chapter, which were warmly received. Kappa thanks Slate for the wonderful job they did, and we are all very hard excited for the new Chapter Council to lead us into next year. As the year came to a close, December was an important time for transitioning. New Chapter Council members met with those who held their positions currently to learn the ins and outs of each job. As a wrap-up and official transition day, Charlotte (VPO) planned the Leadership brunch at the house. Old and new Chapter Council members gathered with their advisors to fix celebrate everything that has been accomplished in the past year and now have clarity between discuss goals for the semester to come. Chapter Council members also attended the State of Panhellenic dinner to present what Kappa achieved in the last year. As a treat, Carter (VP Standards) and the Standards committee replaced the twolast chapter with a sisterhood party. The house transformed into a Winter Wonderland as chapter members took a break from studying to enjoy free massages, cookie decorating, and a chocolate fountain. Overall, 2018 was a remarkable year for Kappa as we transitioned off of a Warning of Probation, introduced a wonderful new pledge class, and grew stronger together.We are very fortunate to have had such an exciting year, and we anticipate that 2019 will be even better!
==Highlights of 2013==This year,the Texas Longhorns played a fantastic season and played against the Oklahoma Sooners in theBig 12 Championship at the AT&T Stadium. This was the first year since 2009 that the Longhorns madeit to the Big 12 Championship,and it was the first time since 1903 that the two teams played eachother twice in one season.The Longhorns will go on to play the Georgia Bulldogs in the Sugar Bowl on New Year's Day.After a long campaign season and a runoff,Colton Becker and Mehraz Rahman were electedas the new student body president and vice president. Our chapter is known throughout campusfor being very involved in multiple school functions and clubs.The traditional "Kappa"girl is known for being respectable,responsible,and true to herself.Our house is a landmark on campus, and we take pride in welcoming people to see thisspecial place.Our chapter supports Reading Is Fundamental,B+ Foundation
The newly elected officers were very excited to get into their positions Our chapter has been raising money and gathering books for RIF over the 2013 calendar last few years.We partner with Wooldridge Elementary to host a RIF event there twice a year. After completing triplicate meetings in December, invitingstudents from the officers all felt that they were ready school to continue come play games,eat snacks,and get their faces painted.Each child leaves with books donated by our members. Throughout the great leadership that was in place before them. Our first order of business year,chapter membersvolunteer as Chapter Council was to create a Google Drive mentors for us to share. We were astounded by previous some of the chapter councils’ ability to work without students at the technology we have todayschool. As We received our B+ Hero,Moriah,a chapterfew years ago, we communicate much along with many other sororities and fraternities on campus.Moriah has become part of our information through emails, Google documentsthe sisterhood, and she is well loved by everyone in the Kappa websitechapter. We also employed the use spend lots of the Gin system time taking her and her friends to provide all our information participate in things around Austin as wellas hosting them to the entire chapterhouse to paint,sing,or play hide-and-go-seek. Our improved use of technology allowed Throughout the year,wealso raise money for clearer channels of communication between officers the B+ Foundation through fundraising campaigns. As Moriah grows older,we are so lucky to have had the chance to get to know her and the chapter as a wholeher family.
In our first Chapter Council meeting we created our 2013 Leadership Action Plan. We spent time working on a plan that would guide us to Our chapter improvement and would help us hold each other accountable meets every Monday at 6 pm in our various offices. Our first area was Self-Discovery and Intellectual and what we chose our focus to be to support future career endeavors. We made 3 goals for this area: implement Owl of call the Week (an time for a chosen Kappa to describe her internship), host a resume workshop and mock-interview session, and offer additional resources such as networking and internship lists. Our second area was Interpersonal Development and our focus was to increase chapter unity. Our three goals were family (plan 2 spring family events), fitness (encourage weekly workout classes at "Great Room" in the Kappa house), and film (feature a “Rom-Com” of the Month after study snacks at the house). Our third area was Leadership and Skill Building with a focus on clarity and transparency. Our four goals were to increase chapter usage of the Gin system, make house points viewable and update them monthlyAt 5pm, keep a detailed record of the budget, and present information in a comprehensible and entertaining manner. Our fourth area was Understanding and Appreciation of Kappa and we wanted offer chapter dinner to emphasize Kappa Then and Nowthe entire chapter. Our three goals were As dinner comes to promote better understanding of formal meetingan end, ritual, and our HouseBoys assist us in moving the history of Kappa, expand the size of Pickers tables and increase their involvement, and look chairs from a dining room setting to alumni for opportunities and guidance after college. We are proud to say that all more of these goals had a clear presence throughout 2013, and we successfully followed through on them to make sure they will be implemented in the future as wellpresentation-style setting.
In JanuaryEvery year, the chapter was in the midst of getting adjusted to the new semester and Chapter Council. We received 2 new affiliates, Ella Coffey and Danielle Fenson, and voted to accept them into we have multiple girls from our chapter. Molly McConn, Membership Chairman, immediately got started on the recruitment process by recruiting freshman apply to become Area Rush Captainsride for Texas 4000. She also held Texas4000 is a meeting for non-profit organization that hosts one of the freshman longest bicycle rides in order to start teaching them about the rush processworld. Willa Jolink The Kappas who apply and are accepted raise thousands of dollars, Education Chairman, planned training a cooking class ll year for the seniors to replace one of the meetings that they are required to attend. Willa also planned the program night for January and brought in Kendyl Richards their ride from Austin Smiles to speak about her nonAlaska. Our chapter assists these members by postingon social media, selling t-profit shirts, and the importance helping raise money. Not only are we incrediblyproud of volunteering. Peyton Bivins, Public Relations Chairmanour girls who take on this task, worked on the January newsletter. The officers we also made a fun video commend our chapter for the chapter that introduced the new leaders outpouringlove and explained their positionssupport they provide. It was a fun way to get the New Year started!Summer 2018 Riders:PeytonBertramandLindaCastranova;Summer 2019 Riders:JulieDeLaRosa
February began with our first “Rom-Com” of the month on February 5th. All of the girls came to the house to watch a fun movie after study snacks. There was a huge turnout and made for a fun night of bonding at the house. On February 10th we held “Rookie Rush” at the house for the freshman. They were taught the basics of recruitment, and all of the recruitment team worked with them to learn chants, the stack, and the general recruitment process. All of the freshmen were so excited to meet the new girls that could potential be our new Kappa members. Additionally, every year we participate in Kisses for Kappa. We donate and make goody bags of Hershey’s kisses to give to a local elderly home on Valentine’s Day. Catherine Wilson, Philanthropy Chair, helped lead the chapter in making goody bags and delivering them to their lucky recipients. It brightened the day of the people living in the home and made Valentine’s Day special for all of the Kappa members that participated. Later in the month, our biggest event of the year, Monmouth, was held on February 16th with Pi Phi. The party was at the Hyatt Regency with huge success! We had a face painter, photo booth, food, and a band. It succeeded due to a lot of work from Isabel Dann, Social Chairman, and Julie Parma, Risk Management Chairman. The chapter took buses to and from the event and safely enjoyed the evening. On February 18th, Chapter Council met with the Alpha Xi Delta Chapter Council as a part of a Panhellenic sisterhood event that Sara Holl, Panhellenic delegate, planned and organized. Chapter Council also went through the Standing Rules and By-Laws during their February Chapter Council meetings and made sure they were up to date and correct for each position. February 21st was our Chapter Retreat at Jump Street. The chapter rode buses out to the event and had a blast jumping on all of the trampolines and playing dodge ball. February was a busy month!
March opened with the Province Retreat in Lubbock. Chapter Council got on a bus with the A&M Kappa chapter council and headed out for to meet with all the other Kappa chapters in our province. We all had a great time in Lubbock talking with other chapters and learning more about leadership in Kappa. Our chapter received the award for Best Ritual. Overall, it was a great bonding and learning experience for our chapter council and helped kick start the month of March. The first week in March was also House Mother Appreciation week. After our first meeting of the month we all wrote notes to our House Mother, Miss Judi, to express our appreciation for her dedication to our house. Additionally, each day Macy Barnett, House Chairman, planned something special for Miss Judi. Spring Break was March 11-17 and the Kappas traveled across the nation and abroad to enjoy the week off from school.
When we got back from Spring Break, our Leadership Consultant, Kristi Watts, came to visit our chapter from the 17th to the 22nd. She had a presentation and activities for the chapter at our meeting on Monday. We also had a program night where Willa Jolink, Education Chairman, brought the Ransom Notes (an on campus a cappella group) to sing for our chapter. On April 19th, Kristi Watts held a Zumba class for the chapter before study snacks, and Lea Edwards, Registrar, hosted the “Rom-Com” ==Highlights of the month for the chapter. March 22-24 was Round-Up weekend and all of the fraternities and sororities hosted fun philanthropy events and concerts throughout the weekend. On March 25th the freshman had another recruitment event where each Area Recruitment Captain told the chapter about the incoming freshman that they were excited about. The girls made cute posters and signs to help people remember their names. On March 27th Peyton Bivins, Public Relations Chairman, hosted our Easter party for alumni and their kids. We had face painting, games, candy, and an Easter Bunny at the party. Many Kappa alumni brought their kids to the party, and it was a huge success. 2019==
April 1st started off with Several members of Kappa are a resume workshop to help prepare for part of the upcoming round of job interviewspeer buddy in Best Buddies. Caroline Cooper, VP Academic Excellence, hosted the event They ar epaired with an adult with an intellectual disability and everyone found it very helpful and informative. On April 5th Catherine Wilson, Philanthropy Chair, hosted our annual Kappa Pi Phi Powder-Puff game he’s their"buddy"at all the intermural fields to raise money events for RIFthe rest of the school year. It was is a huge success with a snow cone maker, prizes, and a rafflegreat way for our members to stay involved in the community as well as make an impact in someone's life. Kappa won I would say that all our members involved in Best Buddies have learned more from the game for the 3rd year program than they expected. Our members are also involved in a row! On April 6th we had our annual philanthropy,Reading is Key party Fundamental. There is an event at Zavala Wooldridge Elementary School. Our chapter brought books for every kid hosted an afternoon partywhere members go hang out with the children at the school, paint their faces, complete with gamesmake bracelets, craftsdraw pictures, play basketball and face painteveryone's favorite, play musical chairs. On April 7th There are also other events we had our third recruitment workshop with the freshmen are involved in such as an online fundraiser for B+ Foundation, Girls Academy (middle school girls retreat on leadership, service, and sophomores. The sophomores demonstrated their rush skills by helping them with respect), book drives, participated in Phi Psi Stuff the songsTruck, DG Desserts, Alpha Phi's Mac N' Phis, dancesPi Phi's Pi Burger's & Phries, ADPi's PiHop, won SDT EAT your way around competition, Kappa Pi Phi carnival, fundraising for Texas4000, donated menstrual products to PERIOD.Each of our members are dedicated to their success and noise levelhave achieved incredible things while at the University of Texas. Nancy Ellison, One of our PDCmembers was awarded a $1500 grant for thesis research, who was regularly updated by Sullivan Franklinshe is the co-Mitchellpresident of Plan II student association, Recording Secretarywas also awarded the AJ and Lynda Hare Scribante Scholarship for $3000, attended our Chapter Council meeting and is a counselor for Dell Medical Summer Science Camp. We have a lot going on April 7th. It was fun for Chapter Council but we are all there to chat with her support each other and get to update her in person rather than through emailhelp out when someone could use another hand.
On April 9th we had our “Rom-Com” Our members are involved in certain programs and clubs on campus and a majority hold officer positions in those organizations. A few of the monththings they have worked to accomplish include improved transition for freshman Plan II students by creating new activities and opportunities for involvement, which was right after study snacks contributed to enrichment and was a fun break for everyone. Soon aftercloseness of Greek community, donated 300 books to Wooldridge Elementary, Junior/Senior night was on April 11th. It was a special night where the upperclassman had dinner together at Iron Cactus and talked about all the fun memories they’ve had at Kappa. April 12-14 was our annual Mom’s Weekend. Isabel Dannprovided support, Social Chaireducation, planned a fun weekend with a happy hour at a local storeand leadership to Wooldridge students, AdelanteB+ hero, and a brunch at The Driskill Hotelsummer camp kids. It was a great weekend spent showing We support Reading is Fundamental, Andrew McDonough B+ Foundation We chose RIF because it is our mom’s Austin national philanthropy and we want to participate in the core values of Kappa Kappa houseGamma. On April 18th we had Hosting RIF events and book drives connects us with our very own, Kappa Kasual, as our second date party of sisters within the semester. It was a fun party at a local Austin venue called Haven, chapter and girls invited dates and danced to throughout the band. The next day we kicked off Dad’s weekend with dinner at Serrano’snation. We ate fajitas on chose the B+ Foundation because it is a patio and enjoyed live music under the stars. The next night local philanthropy that we paired up can participate in with other sororities and fraternities on the University of Texas Cowboys to have an event at a local venue called The Stage. Overall it was a great weekend with our Dadscampus.
On April 24th Caroline Cooper, VP Academic Excellence, planned a networking event at the house for all chapter members. She brought in various Kappa alumni form different industries to talk to chapter members about future careers. On April 26th we had Kappa family night at a local Austin movie theatre drive-in. They showed the film Grease and all the Kappa families carpooled together to see the movie. On April 28th the entire chapter participated in another Rookie Rush event. We all worked together in preparation for recruitment before the summer. Our last meeting of the semester was on April 29th, which included the Senior Send-Off during the meeting. This includes all of the seniors sharing a funny memory from their four years of being a Kappa. It was a bittersweet way to end the semester by saying goodbye to our beloved seniors.
Over the summer, Kappa members took jobs all across the world. Some traveled and studied abroad, while others took classes in Austin or worked in New York. From diving with sharks in South Africa to spending an afternoon at Barton Springs, Kappa was represented all around the world. ==Highlights of 2020==
August 12th kicked off Work Week for the Beta Xi chapter in preparation for recruitmentof Kappa Kappa Gamma had a great year! Multiple members were awarded KKG foundation academic scholarships. The week Ashley Duester (PC ’17) was filled with fun events along with a lot awarded the UT Sorority and Fraternity Life Office Outstanding Member of time spend preparing2020 award. The Recruitment TeamBefore the COVID-19 pandemic, we were lucky enough host a sisterhood basketball game in February and the Monmouth date event on March 2nd, led by Molly McConn2020. After life started to change, planned fun sisterhood events for the chapterbegan to look more socially distant. On November 10th, such as 2020 we held a petting zoo sisterhood ice cream event at Zilker Park and a hot chocolate event in the key garden, while also organizing slide shows and bump group practicesduring finals week in December. Throughout the week the seniors had fun skits that they presented We continued to the chapter and the rush team gave out fun prizes. August 15th was our Date Dash party that was planned stay philanthropically involved by Isabel Dann at Recess, hosting a local venuechapter drive-in donation to EJI in Spring 2020. It was a fun break during Work Week, and some Because of the previously graduated Kappas joined pandemic, we created operation plans for managing chapter facilities in on the fun. August 21midst of COVID-27 was Recruitment Week for the Kappas19. It was an extremely successful year with We conducted a new pledge class of 71 membersvirtual work week, recruitment, and bid day. Everyone at Kappa was so excited to see all of the All new members running down University Avenue toward the house when they got their bids. Tatum Jolinkmember meetings, New Member Chairmanformal and reverse pledging ceremonies, planned and formal chapter meetings were held virtually through zoom (informal chapter meetings consisted of a great Bid Night for PowerPoint made by the new pledge class with dinner at Abel’s on the Lake members of chapter council and a face painting. They got decked sent out in all new Kappa gear and had a great night meeting their new Kappa sistersto the entire chapter). And quickly afterFurther, the next morning initiation was back to school for a new semestercompletely virtual and combined into one ceremony.
September started out The Chapter celebrated Founders Day with our first meeting back from school and formal pledging for a brunch at the new pledge classBeta Xi KKG House. Lea Edwards, Registrar, put Kappa Alumni were invited to come celebrate the information for all of the new members into Key Reports. Tatum Jolink, New Member Chair, started holding pledge meetings after chapter meetings on Mondays. She planned out a full semester of appearances from exciting day and share with each Kappa officer to enhance understanding of other the inner workings power of Kappawomen. Macy Barnett, House Manager, updated the Gin system, improving the house point system. Margaret Smith, VP Standards, scheduled meetings to meet individually with each new member. It There was also a nice surprise when Caroline Cooper, VP Academic Excellence, was one speaker who presented a little bit about Kappa and the history of six invited to attend the Academic Excellence conference at the Kappa headquarters. She it and everyone had an excellent a great time strategizing with other VPAEs about grade improvement in each chapter and learning ways to promote academic excellenceothers company.
Our meeting on September 9th was program night; it was special because a member of our The chapter, Barbara Gass, discussed her experience biking from Austin, Texas to Anchorage, Alaska began to raise money for cancer research in Texas 4000. Kappa Kidnap was our second event of the year on September 12th. It is a very exciting event in which the chapter is unaware of the location of the event until we arrive. This year it was hosted about an hour outside of Austin at the famous Coupland Dance Hall. Girls wore cowboy boots and dresses and danced the night away. Parent’s Weekend was September 20th and 21st. On the 20th we hosted a fun party celebrate Kappa’s 150th anniversary with the Texas Fiji’s at a local venue called The Stage. There was a fun band and games. On Saturday night Catherine Wilson, Philanthropy Chair, planned Kappa CookoutFounders Day. Every year we have barbecue at the house and invite our parents Customized cups and friends to come by after the football game to raise money napkins were made for Reading is Fundamental. It was a huge success with a band playing in the key garden and the house set up in a football theme. On September 27th Tatum Jolink, New Member Chair, planned the new member retreat. She hosted it at the house and cleared out all guests of Founders Day as well as for the furniture. The new active members played games and watched movies and all got to know each other even better. September was a full month of fun and educating new membersuse throughout the year.
October started with For our annual TriDelt/Kappa Ranch Date party on October 3rd. It was held at a new venue called Brazos Hall philanthropy we support B+ Foundation, Reading is Fundamental, and people danced all night various COVID relief organizations: Fuel Our Heroes, Communities in cowboy boots. On October 7th the new members had an orientation with all Schools of the new members in the UT Panhellenic system. On October 12th the Kappas headed north to Dallas for the annual TX/OU weekend. This was the first year in 3 years that Central Texas pulled out a win , Boys and everyone was very excited! On October 14th we had program night during Girls Club. RIF is our meeting Kappa affiliate philanthropy and Willa Jolink invited the UT Slam Poetry team to come perform for usB+ supports children battling cancer. It was a great way As for the chapter to see a different side of campus. Lea EdwardsCOVID relief participation, Registrar, planned composites pictures to be taken on October 15-16. Everyone dressed up in black to take pictures in we felt that the side living room. On October 16th Chapter Council had a fun dinner with all pandemic was one of their advisors at Santa Rita. It was a great way for everyone to hang out with their advisor and meet the other advisors who do so much for our chapter. We celebrate Kappa Founder’s Day on October 21st. Willa Jolink, Education Chairman, planned a wonderful event at the AT&T Conference center across from the Kappa house. We honored Kappa alumni and remembered our founders. We even had an appearance from the Pickers! On October 29th Peyton Bivins, Public Relations Chairman, planned the alumni Halloween party. All greatest crisis of the local alumni brought their kids dressed up for Halloween, and our chapter hosted a party with trick or treating, face painting, lifetime and games. On October 31st we had our annual party with Chi Omega called Owloween. It was at a local venue downtown and was a great needed to help in any way to celebrate Halloween as a chapterpossible.
On November 1st we had Big/Little Reveal. Tatum Jolink planned something new and fun The chapter fund raised for the girls. We had a barge out on Lake Austin and the girls dressed up in a costume to match their bigs. It was so much fun and everyone enjoyed adding a new member to their Kappa family. On November 4th we had reverse pledging for the new members and Equal Justice Initiative, started Inspiration Week. Throughout the week we had fun events planned for the new members leading up to Initiation. We had a House Buddy reveal party and many other fun things to celebrate their transition into official members of Kappa. On November 8summer anti-9 we had Initiation at the house. This yearracism book club, 47 alums and over 200 actives took part in our best initiation yet. Both the actives and alumnae were eager to participate; all felt established a strong sense of renewal afterward. Our white room was 18’ x 32’ larger than in years past due to the extensive efforts of the Marshal, her adviser Diversity and her committee. We added an extra Red Room along with 12 Runners and four Marshals to help run the Red Room process. Everyone participated and alumni from around the country came to initiate girls they know and love. After initiation on November 9th we had an Initiation brunch for all Inclusion position of the girls and their moms. On November 14-17 we had a Kappa trainer come visit our chapter. She taught us about risk management council and the importance of Kappa’s reputation. It was extremely helpful committee for our chapter to have her help us improverecruitment. On November 19th we had a sisterhood event at the house. We all brought supplies All Diversity and participated in a fun event that helped boost self-esteem Inclusion positions and demonstrate our appreciation for one another. On November 21st we had our last event of the year, Kappa Cocktailcommittees were made permanent. We had a great semi-formal at a local venue Buffalo Billiards. It was a great way to end a semester!
In December we finished up with To celebrate 150 years of Kappa, our last meeting education chair made gift packages and sent them to all of the year and the old officers handed down their positionsalumnae being honored. We all participated in Triplicate meetings In these gift packs were personalized Yeti cups and were very excited to pass off our positions to a great new Chapter Councilnotes.
This has been a big year for the Beta Xi Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma. Every year our chapter Here is expanding at a much faster rate than the previous year, and link to our chapter is learning to adjust to Instagram that was run by our new large numbersPR chair. Overall, the Greek system at the University of Texas is growing at an extremely rapid rate, and men It features pictures posted following public health guidelines and women across the country are realizing the value in joining a sorority or fraternity. As we grow, how we are adding many new facets to handled the personality social media aspect of our chapter. Reflecting on the nature of our chapter brings to mind a collection of different girls with different strengths, such as biology, guitar, or computer programmingpandemic. Our chapter is very close due to our diversityhttps://www. When studying or interacting with other students on campus it is always a proud moment to meet someone who has previously worked with a Kappa. We are all eager to represent Kappa on campus and we hold ourselves to the highest standardsinstagram.com/texaskkg/?hl=en
This year UT has experienced many changes. Our head coach of the football team, Mack Brown, retired from coaching after a very successful tenure at UT. A new coach from Louisville, Charlie Strong, replaced him. It will be interesting to see his success at UT over the next few years. The UT Board of Regents has been eventful to follow—with some members disagreeing Bill Powers, the president of UT. The City of Austin has also been growing at a very fast rate over the past few years. There are many new buildings added to the skyline each year and Austin is becoming a destination for people around the world. Overall, Kappa is adapting to UT and Austin’s development and growth with ease, and we are excited to see what happens in the years to come.
==Highlights of 2020s:==
(From chapter’s History Report: Scholarship, group honors/awards, traditions, special events, changes on campus or within chapter, overall nature of the chapter, chapter goals, challenges and how they were overcome, etc.)
'''Housing:'''
In 2021, the Beta Xi chapter continued to thrive despite the complex environment of the evolving pandemic, and the chapter was a place of refuge for its members. In the early spring, chapter members stayed connected through virtual chapters and outdoor sisterhood events including a coffee bar in the KKG courtyard and a profit share with a delicious ice cream sandwich truck to raise money for our philanthropies. Later in the semester, the chapter had its first semi-formal in over a year. The event was split up by grade level and members and their dates were COVID tested prior to the event. 87 members had 4.0s in the spring semester, and the chapter raised thousands of dollars for philanthropies including RIF, B+, Allies Against Slavery, and National Coalition against human trafficking. In the summer, Recruitment week was an exciting time for the chapter. It was the first time the entire chapter was able to be together since early 2020, and new bonds were formed while old bonds were strengthened. In the fall, chapter events and meetings were once again in-person. The return of Kappa lunch was welcomed by the chapter, as members were once again able to spend time together eating and studying at the Kappa house.
'''Philanthropy:'''
'''Convention Awards:'''
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'''Note to Chapter Registrar:'''
Please refer to your chapter archives including chapter meeting minutes and back issues of The Key to fill in any gaps in the above historical highlights. If your chapter archives are not complete, please research your university library, campus newspaper and yearbook archives for newsworthy information about your chapter. Please double check your work for accuracy. Contact chapter Advisory or House Board members, local Alumnae Association members, or your Province Director of Chapters for assistance.
Your efforts will ensure Operating in a complete PandemicHow did your chapter operations change due to COVID-19 (e.g., how did it affect recruitment, initiation, etc. Were events/activities held virtually?). Share what you have done this year. Chapter operations were impacted by COVID-19. During the spring, chapter and chapter council meetings were held virtually, and sisterhood and philanthropy events were usually outside in smaller groups. Work week and recruitment were a hybrid environment. Many work week activities were in-person, wearing masks. Recruitment was virtual until the preference round, which was split into two days, socially distanced, and accurate history masked. In the fall, the chapter saw a return to many more in-person events. The initiation ceremonies were once again in-person, although Fireside was split into two groups to facilitate social distancing. The chapter also elected to use the combined service for initiation, per the recommendation of your chapter Kappa nationals, to limit close contact between initiates and alumnae. The white room had less draping to allow for future generations better ventilation, and seniors were not required to enjoy!attend so that the room was less crowded than it would have been in a pre-pandemic initiation.
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|Image= [[File:Beta_Xi.jpg|200px]]
|Founded= {{start date and years ago|1902|05|12}}
|College= [httphttps://www.utexas.edu/ University of Texas at Austin]
|Location= Austin, TX
|Homepage= [https://chaptersutexas.kappakappagammakappa.org/betaxi/ Beta Xi Homepage]|Media= [httphttps://wiki.kappakappagammakkg.org/index.php?title=Category:Beta_Xi Media related to Beta Xi Chapter]}}
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'''4,448 817 initiates (as of June 20132018)'''
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'''Some of Beta Xi’s Outstanding MembersCharter members:''' (If you have chapter alumnae who have received recognition in any of these three categories Olatia Crane, please list them with the date(s) of recognitionHelen Olive Devine, Fanny West Harris, Alma Keturah Jones, Minnie Avelyn Petty, Marian Leigh Rather, Katherine Andrews Searcy, Eva Miriam Sodekson, Josephine Lucile Wathen.)
'''Fraternity Alumnae Achievement Award Recipients:'''
Helen Knox, 1952, banker, author, Red Cross volunteer;
Prudence Mahaffey Mackintosh, 1988, author of books and magazines;
'''Additional Outstanding Beta Xi Alumnae:'''
Ann Haun (Barlow), Graduate Counselor 1961-1962;
Nancy Haun (Dozier), Graduate Counselor 1959-1960;
==Highlights of 2000-2010==
Beta Xi welcomed the new millenium millennium with a variety of new chapter activities. Each year, the sisters gathered at a chapter retreat in the fall to build and restore relationships within the chapter. New sisterhood programs included television nights, a makeover with a make-up artist, a cooking class, a yoga class, manicures, and a ceramics class. To prepare for Recruitment, a Work Week was held in which the entire chapter learned new skits, practiced old songs, and perfected Recruitment strategies. A leadership workshop for the outgoing and incoming officers, and their advisers, to aid in the transition process. The Vice President-Academic Excellence worked to improve work ==Highlights of 2016== 2016 was a year characterized by strength, endurance, and evolution for Beta Xi. Still without our beloved house, the Kappas faced new challenges, bound together by friendship instead of the walls of the chapter’s Ghouse itself.PThe campus climate was tumultuous.AThe chapter itself stumbled and fell on a few occasions. by implementing But as the “Owl Jar” programyear comes to a close, we can look back and say that in spite of all of that, we learned and we grew. We are finishing 2016 stronger, which recognized members for their hard workmore unified, and introducing the “Study Fairybetter than when we began it. We are excited to move into our house come January! But before we transition into 2017,” a magical being who rewarded Kappas found studying we want to look back and reflect on campusall we learned.
Without our trusty senior girls to guide us and without a house to meet in, Chapter Council braved
the unknown and began to meet. Ellen Crowe (President) began the year with efficiency and care,
planning and leading Chapter Council meetings. They finalized edits on the chapter bylaws and
standing rules, educated themselves on how to use the Kappa drive and webinars, and reviewed the
expectations and responsibilities of Chapter Council members with the help of Hailey Becker (VP
Organization). She went over goals for the year, including chapter unity, continuing to revamp
philanthropy, and getting the chapter on board with the Risk Management policies, as well as the
rules and goals of Standards Committee. Chapter council discussed some ways to hold the chapter
accountable for their actions at events and to reinforce new standards for behavior for everyone.
We decided to change our buddy system from “bigs” and “littles,” to a “pick-a-buddy” system, where
the girls signed up with a friend before events to be their accountability partner. Grace Winston
bus-riding attendance at events, while Anna
Wittenmyer (VP Standards) streamlined the way we approach standards decisions. Sara Shaw
(House Chair) worked tirelessly alongside our House Board, as renovations plowed on. Kathryn
Stouffer (Public Relations Chairman) continued to educate members about the GIN system and
published yet another great issue of “Round Up”, the annual Kappa newsletter. The new leaders
conducted the first few chapter meetings with thoroughness and efficiency, growing more comfortable
meeting in the Student Union and in their new positions. The year started off with a bang, with an
organized Chapter Council and an excited group of Kappas.
Kappa events slowed and finals approached, as May rolled around. Caroline Smyrl (Education
Chairman) conducted Senior Sendoff, a fun event after chapter where we recognize the seniors and
hear funny memories from years past, including poems and “twinkies” from some seniors’ parents.
These very seniors then became alums after graduation celebrations, and it was made official in Key
Reports. Some of them got into top graduate schools to continue their studies, while others headed
off to work in cities around the country. They were off into the world! Payton Scott (Treasurer)
worked hard to set up the budget for the upcoming school year, and held budget meetings with all of
the Chapter Council officers. Tai Massimilian (New Member Chairman) and Riley Longtain (Membership
Chairman) both worked hard to prepare for recruitment and the new pledge class coming in August,
with the added challenge of finding a home for Spirit and Recruitment weeks without our house. We
talked to event halls and fraternity houses, and we finally found a place to hold the events and
welcome our new members…stay tuned below! Riley also held the last recruitment workshop and began
planning for the summer with her incredible team. The girls in dorms, apartments, and houses packed
their bags and headed out of Austin, waving goodbye to this school year.
But unlike years past, when Kappas ran into our house on University Avenue to prepare for
recruitment, this year we ran into…the Sigma Alpha Epsilon house, another temporary home! The SAE
fraternity boys kindly let us borrow their conveniently located house for a few weeks. And as we
did with the Union, we turned the SAE house into a home. Kappa seems to have an uncanny knack of
making anywhere feel like a loving home. It could be a room in the Student Union, a study abroad
dorm, a cramped apartment full of Kappas working in New York city, or a fraternity house, but if
Kappas are together, it feels like home. It is definitely a skill we are proud of!
==Highlights of 2021==
Chapter Philanthropy
In the spring, the Beta Xi chapter raised money to help Austin’s homeless during the winter storms and raised $20,000 for two organizations that combat human trafficking. Throughout the year, our chapter supported the B+ Foundation, which supports the families of children who are fighting cancer. This fall, Christiane, an honorary Kappa who has Batten disease, joined our chapter. She frequently visits the Beta Xi house for Kappa lunch where she eats and socializes with chapter members. The chapter also had several canned food drives.
The chapter had a walk to raise money for NEDA and fundraised for the Jed Foundation.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
2021 was the first full year of the Beta Xi chapter having a DEI chair on chapter council. She promoted university-wide diversity and inclusion seminars, speeches, and student organizations. DEI presentations were given during chapter meetings that included promoting national heritage holidays. The DEI chair also gave a DEI presentation during work week to promote inclusivity during recruitment.