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Gamma Zeta

2013-12-01T19:18:47Z

Desertdawg:

{{Infobox Fraternity
|Name= Gamma Zeta
|GreekSymbol= ΓZ
|Image= [[File:Gamma_Zeta.jpg|200px]]
|Founded= {{start date and years ago|1920|01|03}}
|College= [http://www.arizona.edu/ University of Arizona]
|Location= Tucson, AZ
|Homepage= [http://www.arizonakkg.com/ Gamma Zeta Homepage]
|Media= [http://wiki.kappakappagamma.org/index.php?title=Category:Gamma_Zeta Media related to Gamma Zeta Chapter]}}

'''University of Arizona, established in 1885'''

'''Gamma Zeta founded on January 3, 1920'''

'''3,176 members (as of June 2013)'''

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'''Some of Gamma Zeta’s Outstanding Alumnae:'''

'''Fraternity Council Members:''' (If you have chapter alumnae who have received recognition in any of these three categories, please list them with the date(s) of recognition.)

Loretta McCarthy, Field Secretary 1968-1970;
Ellen Ruth (lvey), Field Secretary 1971-1974;
Vicki Luciani, Leadership Consultant 2010-2011

'''Loyalty Award Recipients:'''

'''Fraternity Alumnae Achievement Award Recipients:'''

Loretta McCarthy, 1984, A top executive with American Express;
Doris Born Monthan, 1984, Author, authority on American Indian culture;
Holly Busche Cottor, 2012, Founder of Ryan House;
Jewell McFarland Lewis, 2002, Former chairman of the board of Media America; Holly Busche Cottor, pediatric respite-care facility co-founder, 2012;

'''AdditionalOutstanding Gamma Zeta Alumnae:'''

Molly Roller (Spingler), Graduate Counselor 1958-1959;
Sue Forster (Vincent), Graduate Counselor 1959-1960;
Loretta McCarthy, Graduate Counselor 1969-1971;
Mary Hendershott (Itani), Graduate Counselor 1969-1971;
Ellen Ruth (Ivey), Graduate Counselor 1971-1972

---------------

==The Early Years (From The History of Kappa Kappa Gamma 1870–1976)==

The story of Gamma Zeta's growth is also the story of the growth of the University of Arizona from the small 1,088 student Land Grant school of the 1920s to the fine university of over 27,000 students which it is today. The few university buildings of the past and the simply-structured student government have resulted in the complex campus of the 1970s.

Several Tucson women not then attending college organized Alpha Sigma, a local sorority, in the fall of 1916 for the purpose of "obtaining a chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma, also to derive social and scholastic benefits, and to promote college spirit as an organized society." The following year only one member, Norma Brazee (Sexton), returned to the university. Two other local groups existing then were receiving charters from Kappa Alpha Theta and Pi Beta Phi so it was important to reorganize Alpha Sigma quickly. Eight freshmen were pledged who became the core members of the reorganized Alpha Sigma.

In 1918-1919 Alpha Sigma partitioned Kappa, and on January 3, 1920, Grand President Lydia Voris Kolbe, Akron, and members of Gamma Beta (New Mexico) installed Gamma Zeta Chapter and its 24 charter members. Norma Brazee. whose "History of Alpha Sigma" is part of Gamma Zeta's was not able to be initiated,

The chapter's first decade was one of varied activities distinct social pattern. Teas, dinner dances, house dances (girls only), and powdered wig banquets were the order. Early records
refer to wedding and baby gifts for members, notably silver card trays and silver salt and pepper shakers.

Decorous behavior was the rule: no smoking in public, no smoking together of actives and pledges, and no smoking by men in the Gamma Zeta house. Pledges could not date before
4:30 p.m. nor during weekday nights. Juniors and seniors were allowed week night dates between 9:30 and 10:00 p.m. after which the house was locked for the night.

Intersorority tournaments were big campus events. Gamma Zeta won many basketball and hockey games. Individuals excelled in horseshows and other sports, dramatic presentations, and work on the Desert yearbook and Wildcat newspaper. YWCA also made up a busy program for the Arizona Kappas.

Special note is made in early chapter records of three non-related events: a 1921 pledge-sponsored Christmas formal (which continued in 1975 as a pledge sponsored Christmas activity); the sudden death in 1922 of charter member Dorothy Andrews, who was "so lively and enthusiastic and ... very talented in music and athletics and a brilliant student who was
admired by every student and faculty member"; and a house fund started in 1923 into which every active, pledge, and alumna put $25.

When a larger chapter house became necessary (a small house had been bought in 1923) a lot was purchased with a Fraternity loan and ground was broken on Founders Day 1934. The chapter moved into the new house on February 10, 1935. The "Kappa Kottage," a house on an adjacent lot, was remodeled and first used in 1956-1957. In 1963-64 a complex of adjacent to the Kottage was used for the first time after having been purchased by the Gamma Zeta Building Association. During 1966-67 the house was completed with the addition of the Dorothy Musser room, a large recreation room which connects the apartments and the west wing (formerly the
Kottage).

The second decade started off slowly socially, but well scholastically. All national sororities at Arizona were denied social privileges during the first semester for rush irregularities, and Gamma Zeta lost its social privileges in the spring because of failure to keep a sign-out book. Eventually parties resumed which included mother-daughter banquets, scavenger hunts, brother
and sweetheart dinners, "intellectual hours" and serenade, slumber and roller skating parties. Social life was maintained "in spite of the Depression."

Kappas were busy with campus activities: drama, athletics, Associated Women Students. Rush was conducted for a few girls at a time, and swim parties, shows, and spring teas for high school
girls were common. Freshmen and pledges were required to attend all football games, chewing gum was not allowed in public, pledges could smoke only in the basement, and had to be in bed by 11:00. Secret marriages were in vogue. During this time it seemed perfectly natural that two members of Delta Delta Delta had their meals for a year at the Kappa house since there was as yet no Tri Delta chapter on the Arizona campus.

The excellent grades of the early 1930s began to drop by the mid-1930s. The initiation average was lowered, and scholarship seemed to hit a new low in 1940 when the requirement for initiation was lowered again, yet ten out of 28 pledges still did make their grades.

At this time World War II was a reality for most of the world and the University of Arizona felt its impact. Girls gave dances for officers at Davis Monthan Air Base and for the Cavalry Post.
Victory Fund dances and War Bond contests were waged between sororities and fraternities. Kappas worked in canteens and rolled bandages. Gamma Zeta adopted an English war orphan and decided that house fines would purchase bonds. Girls saved their razor blades, magazines, and old clothes, and turned their ration books in to the house director. However, the house director was given an alligator purse and a sterling silver compact for Christmas.

With men so scarce, the girls concentrated on rodeos, swimming and volleyball. In November, 1941, the members were shocked to learn that a member had been thrown while riding and died.
In the spring of 1945 another death occurred, that of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, and the spring formal was cancelled in respect of mourning traditions.

The late 1940s found Gamma Zetas excelling in journalism and by 1949 they were dominating many activities. They built shiny whales, pink elephants, "Arks of Triumph," and storks
"expecting expansion." The chapter won top honors and took Sweepstakes prizes with these constructions. There were pledge classes of 40. Individual and team honors were won in
golf, swimming, tennis, rifle, and fencing. Gamma Zetas were officers of Associated Women Students, Student Government, and drama organizations. Repeatedly they took scholarship
trophies among living groups (dormitories, sororities, fraternities). There were several queens and a Miss Alaska. Near the decade's end the chapter was delighted to pledge daughters of
two film stars, the cowboy idol Johnny Mack Brown and the versatile Anthony Quinn.

In 1956 the chapter began its foreign student program by inviting a young student from Denmark to live in the house. Since then the girls have enjoyed guests from Uruguay, Holland, Argentina, Peru, Germany, and Norway.

The Gamma Zetas of the 1960s didn't rest on past laurels. Scholarship was of paramount importance, and members were in almost every honorary. There were many queens, many
hostesses, recognition in swimming and dance groups. In 1963-1964 the presidents of all four class levels of women's honoraries (Mortar Board, Chimes, Spurs, and Alpha Lambda Delta) were Kappas. They excelled individually and as a group, but perhaps in reaction to the war years seemed unconscious of the outside world, turning away from interest in or participation in anything beyond the campus.

At the end of the 1960s and the beginning of the 1970s social concerns again began to be of importance to members of Gamma Zeta. They participated in voter registration drives,
political campaigns, and stepped up their philanthropy concerns. The Vietnam War divided the chapter as it did the American people, but the girls were able to resolve their differences
peacefully and respect each other's rights to differing opinions.

Across the country the legal age of maturity was being lowered in Arizona to 18, and the University of Arizona Regents debated whether drinking on campus concept and began to stress individual rights and privacy. House keys were now issued to each girl, her hours were hers to decide, and her grades were to be given to her alone (not even to her parents). The scholastic rank of a chapter could be found out but not the names of houses above or below. Individuality and “doing your own thing" held sway. Apprehension arose among the alumnae concerning scholarship, almost always Gamma Zeta’s outstanding quality. Fears ceased when, in the spring of 1972, 22 pledges out of 22 were initiated and a Kappa won one of the two awards for outstanding senior women.

"You're a university woman," the statement made to pledges, implies dignity, personal responsibility, and promise for the years to come for Gamma Zeta.

Gamma Zeta members who have given special service to the Fraternity include graduate counselors Sue Forster (Vincent), 1959-60; Molly Roller (Spingler), 1958-59; Mary Hendershott (ltani), 1969-70; and Natalie Graff; and field secretary Ellen (Missy) Jester Ruth, 1971.
-------------------------------
The previous information was excerpted from The History of Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity, 1870-1976. The information that follows has been gleaned from available resources including Chapter History Reports, chapter meeting minutes, letters and comments from chapter members and alumnae, the Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity Archives, and The Key. Each chapter is expected to update its history record annually. Contact Fraternity Headquarters at kkghq@kkg.org with questions.

==Highlights of the 1970s==

Women's liberation was a large factor in influencing the activities in this time period, especially reflected through social and clothing trends. The Vietnam war divided the chapter in differing opinions about the war. Also important to the members at the time was conservation. An increased awareness about reusing and recycling took effect.

The inaugural year for U of A's Spring Fling was 1975, a carnival themed event that involved all organizations on campus.

'''Housing:'''

There was a period of transition for the house "mom" after the chapter had to dismiss one woman who apparently falsified her application and treated the members in a harsh manner.

==Highlights of the 1980s:==

In 1985, Gamma Zeta strived to reach their chapter goal of "Image of Excellence" by making themselves more visible in the community. The three main points emphasized with this chapter goal were to excel in scholarship, increase awareness of fraternity standards, and exhibit respect and consideration to one another.

Some of the challenges they faced involved delinquent payments and alcohol infractions. The bylaws were amended to reflect current standards, and stricter enforcement of the rules were put in place.

Gamma Zeta experienced a sad loss of one of its members in 1985. Lauren Kay McLaughlin was killed in an automobile crash. Members of the chapter, alumnae, and the Greek system at Uof A mourned her loss.

The pledges of 1985 won the scholarship award for the highest pledge class GPA among the sororities on U of A's campus. The women of Gamma Zeta continued to participate in many campus clubs and organizations, and many members were named to honorary societies. Gamma Zeta consistently had strong and successful rush events, and one of the favorite party themes continued to be "Willy Wonka and the Kappa Factory."

The many social events included theme parties, holiday gatherings, homecoming float decorating, football game gatherings, Parents Weekend, and formals.

The Gamma Zeta chapter hosted Province Meeting in 1989.
In 1989 University of Arizona's student body was 35,000. Gamma Zeta had 203 active members the same year.

The members of Gamma Zeta maintained positive morale by introducing programs like Sisterhood Cozies, Kappa of the Week, Hoots & Salutes, Sweetest Kappa, Outstanding Pledge, and Outstanding Senior.

'''Philanthropy:'''

Philanthropy continued to be an important focus of Gamma Zeta. Some of the organizations that benefited from the chapter's support were the Tucson Boys Club, Cancer Center, local women's shelters, the Rose McGill Fund, American Red Cross, and the Tucson Table.

'''Chapter Convention Awards:'''

At the 1983 Province Meeting in Santa Barbara, Gamma Zeta received an award for chapter excellence as well as an award for the highest grade point average in the Kappa Province.
At the 1985 Province Meeting held in San Diego, Gamma Zeta won the House Board Award, alumna Thelma Dahlen, Minnesota, won the Betsy Prior Loyalty Award, and the chapter won the Chapter Excellence Award.

Gamma Zeta earned the Norma Dow Patton Gracious Living Award at the 1989 Province Meeting.

==Highlights of the 1990s==

The members of Gamma Zeta continued to maintain a high profile on the campus of University of Arizona. The women of the chapter were involved in scholarship honorary clubs, campus-wide efforts, student government, special interest clubs, and Greek hosted events.

Ritual, standards, and sisterhood were core values that the Gamma Zetas focused on through their activities and programming. Big Sis/Little Sis programming was successful, along with non-alcoholic exchanges, Parents Weekend events, alumnae events, and scholarship events.
The Gamma Zetas shared chapter news through its newsletter, Keyholes. Reports from officers were included, highlights from campus activities, adviser spotlight section, and a dedication to graduating seniors all contributed to a rich publication full of information.

In 1990 the sisters of Gamma Zeta initiated the Irimajiri Art Scholarship Fund in memory of one of their members, Maki Irimajiri, a student who died in an automobile crash. Director of Chapters, Jennie Helderman, Alabama, visited the chapter in 1991.

The members focused on scholarship with quiet study hours after 7 p.m., study buddies, scholarship awards, and study files. The chapter goal in 1991 "Shoot for Pi - 3.14" earned recognition in Kappa's Key magazine.

In Spring of 1991, eleven Gamma Zetas earned a 4.0 GPA.

In 1995 there were 16 sororities on the campus of University of Arizona. Aproximately 15% of the U of A students are members of the Greek system.

Fall recruitment theme parties included Kappa Kountry and Kappa Goes to Hollywood. In the fall of 1998, 55 women were initiated. This was the most women the chapter had ever initiated at one time. This was the first year that the chapter transitioned into the New Member program.

Chapter meetings were made interesting by adding a Romance Award, Hoots and Salutes, A's for the Week, Scholarship Bucks, and the Friendship Award each week.

In 1998 Gamma Zeta was voted Most Outstanding Panhellenic Chapter on U of A's campus. Also exciting for the chapter was receiving first place in Social Programming, second place in Scholarship Programming, Most Outstanding Adviser, a Kaplan Scholarship, and both the Freshman and Sophomore Greek Woman of the year.

'''Housing:'''

In 1991 a new house director started at Gamma Zeta; Shirley Roy.
In 1997 the house installed three new computers in its library to aid with studying. This computer lab was the first time Gamma Zeta had Internet access in the house.

In 1998 much of the house was remodeled. Tile replaced carpeted areas in the TV room, bulletin boards were placed in the front hall making it easier to get announcements to all of the women in the house, and some rooms were repainted and recarpeted.

'''Philanthropy:'''

The Gamma Zetas continued to excel in the area of philanthropy. They participated in the American Red Cross blood drive, Cedric Depmsey Cancer Run, the American Cancer Society's Climb "A" Mountain to Conquer Cancer Benefit Walk, Tucson Area Literacy Coalition aerobics-a-thon, receycling events, ALS foundation fundraiser, senior home volunteer hours, Casa de los Ninos holiday party, and Ronald McDonald House meal preparation.

==Highlights of 2000-2010==

The members continued to focus on sisterhood. This was particularly important because the size of their house is so large. They focused on activities such as Greek Week, Spring Fling, Kore family activities, sisterhood retreats, all house lock-ins, Scholarship Recognition dinners, Apple Polisher Dinners, House Board Appreciation Dinners, Homecoming, Dad's Weekend (one year), Mom's Weekend (the next year), and Staff Appreciation Dinners.

The Gamma Zeta chapter received recognition and a variety of awards from the University of Arizona. Members were involved in intramural sports, all-Greek competitions, student government, homecoming festivities, clubs, and honorary societies.

Gamma Zetas often shared their archives at the Founders Day brunch. Old scrapbooks were the favorite item on display, and some years the Gamma Zetas put together a slide show to show the brunch attendees.

In 2006 there were 11 housed sororities on the U of A campus and more than 20 fraternities.
The 2007 newsletter of Gamma Zeta was titled "Keys and Fleur-de-Lis."

In 2007 the pledge class of Gamma Zeta was composed of 70 new members. Members of Gamma Zeta attended the Kappa Kappa Gamma Leadership Conference in San Diego in 2009. Scholarship was an area of focus during this time frame. Study tables were a popular way to encourage members with a low GPA to spend more time on their school work.

Some of the challenges faced by Gamma Zeta in 2009 and 2010 were communications and stealing. Officers improved their ways of communicating with chapter members regarding mandatory event attendance. Measures were taken to reduce the risk of stealing personal items in the house and in members' mailboxes.

'''Housing:'''

Seventy-five Gamma Zeta members lived in the house in 2006.

'''Philanthropy:'''

The primary organization that Gamma Zetas supported was the Giving Tree Foundation, an effort that supports homeless and needy children. In 2009 Gamma Zeta was able to raise $12,000 for this organization through their Hoops4Hope basketball tournament. Other organizations that received financial or volunteer support from the members included Race for the Cure, Rose McGill Magazine Drive, RIF, the Ally Adelman Foundation, and the Bobbi Olsen's Foundation for Women's Cancer Research.

==Highlights of 2011-2019==

==2011==
Social, scholastic, and philanthropic events continued to fill the calendars of members of Gamma Zeta. Activities included Dad's Weekend, study hours, sisterhood events, Sigma Chi Derby Days philanthropy, Firefighter Challenge philanthropy, recruitment review sessions, Hoops for Hope philanthropy for Cystic Fibrosis, Spring Fling, theme parties, Greek Week, Senior Week, Recruitment, War of Roses philanthropy, Parent's Weekend, Founders Day, and Homecoming Week. A Kappa Trainer visited the chapter in 2011 and educated the members about Kappa standards and protocol.

As of current 86 women live in the house, located across the street from campus. It is the hub of the chapter members and creates the dynamic and lasting friendships between the members of Gamma Zeta.

Philanthropy efforts included Toast for Technology, Tucson Clean and Beautiful, cooking meals at the Ronald McDonald House, and working at a community food bank. As a chapter, Gamma Zeta hosts a 3 on 3 basketball tournament at the University of Arizona, Hoops for Hope.

==2012==
Throughout the year of 2012, the Gamma Zeta Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma participated in a variety of events, both social and also philanthropic, representing our chapter on campus. Classes resumed on Wednesday, January 11th, but our house re-opened several days before, Sunday, January 8th, to allow the girls time to unpack and get settled before beginning classes again.

Our first chapter meeting was held on Monday, January 16th. During the first few weeks back, the new members attended many rookie recruitment meetings with the recruitment chair, Amy Noble, in order to prepare for fall recruitment. Ritual Review meetings also took place with our Marshall, Allie Finnegan, to become informed of initiation and chapter rituals.

Throughout the month of February, many philanthropy projects were held, such as Adopt a Street and Ronald McDonald volunteering. On the 14th of February, we held a Valentine’s Day Sisterhood event and later in the month we had Mom’s weekend, February 24th-26th, in which the ladies were able to spend time with each other and their moms. On February 19th, a Kappa Trainer gave a presentation to the girls to inform them about regulations and life as a Kappa. Study hours were implemented during the semester to ensure that the girls were keeping their grades up. Study hours occurred every Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday for 3 hours. This helped our chapter, for our all house GPA average for the spring semester of 2012 was 3.060 and our new members had an average of 3.106.

We held our annual philanthropy event, Hoops for Hope, headed by the philanthropy chair, Taylor Sloan. Taylor ran a very smooth, successful, and organized event. $10,500 was raised and the money was donated towards the Steele Children’s Research Center. During March, the girls participated in Sigma Chi’s “Derby Days” field day philanthropy as well as Pi Kappa Alpha’s “Firefighter Challenge.” Spring break was March 11th-18th. When the girls returned from break, there were multiple recruitment meetings for the entire chapter in preparation for fall recruitment.

Throughout the semester we had a few date dashes as well as our annual formal. We had Spring Fling from April 9th-13th. It was a week filled with festivities, fun, and games. Later in the month was Senior Week. After Senior Week was complete, girls took their finals and then moved out and back home with their families for a nice summer vacation. The girls returned to the Kappa Kappa Gamma house on August 3rd, for Work Week and Formal Recruitment. Bid Day took place on August 19th, where the ladies of Kappa Kappa Gamma welcomed 82 new members. The president was Lauren Mueller and the recruitment chair was Amy Noble. The new member chair, Audrey Lewter, did a fantastic job informing the new members of the history of the Gamma Zeta chapter.

Key Sis week began near the end of August and continued through the middle of September. These weeks were when the new girls were paired up with the older active members in order to get to know them and feel even more welcome in the chapter, as well as to potentially find their big/little. The ladies participated in Pi Kappa Phi’s War of Roses philanthropy. This was a great way for the new members to get involved, as well as the older members. We had our first date dash of the semester at the end of September. This was the first date dash for the new members and ending up being a very successful and safe night. Big/Little week occurred shortly after. The big sisters left anonymous clues and treats for the little sisters each day of the week, leading up to the exciting reveal. We then had Inspiration Week beginning October 8th, where the new members were introduced to the rituals and values of Kappa Kappa Gamma through a variety of sisterhood events. Each day the girls were encouraged to wear certain colors that highlighted a few of the main aspects of Kappa Kappa Gamma (Blue for Beauty, Red for Integrity, Yellow for Friendship, and Green for Loyalty). This week was also filled with a variety of sisterhood events that gave the girls another opportunity to bond with one another. The new members were then initiated on October 13th and the Founder’s Day Tea was hosted later that morning. The education chair, Ali Castillo, ran the event which was a great day involving the participation of many alumni.

Following this, we had Parent’s Weekend, as well as Pledge Presents. The new members were given the opportunity to show their parents the Kappa Kappa Gamma house and to also introduce them to the lovely ladies of the chapter. On October 24th, a pumpkin carving event was hosted with our members as well as with the ladies of Delta Gamma. Girls from both chapters got together to celebrate the upcoming Halloween holiday by carving pumpkins with each other. Homecoming Week began on November 5th, with the men of Pi Kappa Phi. On Thursday, November 8th, we had a date dash with those gentlemen. Our Reading is Key philanthropy event was held on November 16th. Each member went to Rio Vista Elementary School were the members of Kappa Kappa Gamma promoted the fun and importance of reading to the children through activities such as creating bookmarks, snacks, and reading one of their favorite books.

The first part of the election process for the new Chapter Council began on November 19th, and voting occurred the week of Thanksgiving break. The new members of Chapter Council were installed on November 26th, and began training with the old Chapter Council on December 3rd. To celebrate the holidays, Kappa hosted the Kappa Kozy event on December 4th, in which the girls participated in a gingerbread house decorating competition, was well as other holiday games. As the end of the semester came to a close, the girls really buckled down for their upcoming finals; the last day of finals being December 13th. Overall, the year of 2012 for the Gamma Zeta chapter was an outstanding and successful year. The values and ideals of Kappa Kappa Gamma were upheld and the meaning of sisterhood was expressed throughout the various activities throughout the year.

==Highlights of 2020s:==

(Information from chapter history reports, 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:'''

'''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 a complete and accurate history of your chapter for future generations to enjoy!

Theta

2013-12-01T19:14:43Z

Desertdawg:

{{Infobox Fraternity
|Name= Theta
|GreekSymbol= Θ
|Image= [[File:Theta.jpg|200px]]
|Founded= {{start date and years ago|1875|04|02}}
|College= [http://www.missouri.edu/ University of Missouri]
|Location= Columbia, MO
|Province= Zeta South
|Homepage= [http://chapters.kappakappagamma.org/theta/ Theta Homepage]
|Media= [http://wiki.kappakappagamma.org/index.php?title=Category:Theta Media related to Theta Chapter]
}}

'''University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, established 1839'''

'''Chapter Founded April 2, 1875'''

'''3,867 initiates (as of June 2013)'''

'''Some of Theta’s Outstanding Alumnae:''' (If you have chapter alumnae who have received recognition in any of these three categories, please list them with the date(s) of recognition.)

'''Fraternity Council Members Officers:'''

Gay Hancock (Blake), 1890-1892 Grand Registrar; Edith Stoner (Robinson), 1906-1908 Grand Registrar, 1908 Grand Secretary, 1908-10 Grand President; Marie Bryden Macnaughtan, 1930-1934 Grand Registrar; Marian Klingbeil Williams, 1972-76 Director of Personnel, 1976-78 Director of Field Representatives, 1978-80 Director of Membership, 1980-84 Director of Chapters, 1984-88 Fraternity President, 1989 – 2001 National Panhellenic Conference Delegate, 1999-2001,Chairman National Panhellenic Conference, Jeane Cox-Meuser, Director of Standards 2002-2006; Susie Eynatten Hughes, Director of Membership 2004-2008; Debra Kelley, Field Secretary, 1981-1983; Mary Sterner (Giordano), Traveling Consultant 1985-1986; Lisa Higham (Ferbet), Traveling Consultant 1986-1987; Tricia Morley (Matteson), Traveling Consultant 1997-1998; Karen O’Connor (Knabe), Traveling Consultant 1988-1989; Claire McClintic, Leadership Consultant 2005-2006; Nicki Derryberry, Leadership Consultant 2007-2008;

'''Fraternity Loyalty Award Recipient:'''

Marie Bryden Macnaughtan, 1956

'''Fraternity Alumnae Achievement Award Recipients:'''

(Ellen) Jane Froman (Ross, Burn, Smith), singer; the movie With a Song in My Heart portrays her life, 1954; Carey Boone Nelson, artist and sculptor, 1976; Sabra Tull Meyer, Sculptor, artist, 2012; Lynda "Sunny" Hare Scribante, civic leader and philanthropist, 2012;

'''Additional Outstanding Theta Alumnae'''

Susan Duncan, Graduate Counselor 1978-1980; Lisa Higham (Ferbet), Chapter Consultant 1987-1989; Sheila Jesse (Oliver), Chapter Consultant 1990-1991; Nicki Derryberry, Chapter Consultant 2008-2009;

--------------

==The Early Years (From The History of Kappa Kappa Gamma 1870–1976.)==

Six close friends from among 30 women students at the University of Missouri became Theta Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma on April 2, 1875, with large flat keys and a charter from Grand Chapter Alpha as proof. The first female student had been admitted to the university only five years before, and Greek-letter organizations were as unfamiliar as the women.

Little is known about Theta Chapter’s founding except that it was accomplished “through Delta by correspondence.” Records probably were destroyed during the five years of sub rosa existence beginning in 1880, when the university banned secret societies. The Kappas continued to meet and initiate during these years, and there seems to have been a system of honorable dismissal with later reinstatement.

In 1876 a charter member was one of the first two women to graduate with a degree, and she became the first woman to win the Stephen’s Medal for oratory. To walk among the four buildings on campus, the early Thetas wore “walking suits,” as well as hats, gloves and veils. College life was serious; debates and literary programs enlivened the meetings.

In 1900, a daring idea struck the chapter—a house! Two year later one was rented and nine girls and a chaperone moved in. House rules ordered that bills must be paid; a budget must be kept; and social rules obeyed. The social rules, submitted for the dean’s approval, stipulated: No riding in carriages after dark unless to a dance; only three parlor dates a week; and callers leave before 10 p.m. Lingering farewells provoked a chorus of heels beating on the upstairs floor.

Edith Stoner (Robinson), chapter president and financial watchdog, was in charge when the Kappa Convention came to Columbia in 1904. She became Grand President four years later, after serving as Grand Registrar and Grand Secretary. During the Convention, Theta Chapter hosted a dance for the delegates in Read Hall despite a shortage of men. “No active on pain of death was allowed to dance, only the delegates.”

At the 1906 Convention, an opening and closing ritual for chapter meetings written by an early member of Theta Chapter was adopted.

Increased enrollment resulted in the formation of the Women’s Council and in 1909, Kappa called the first Panhellenic meeting as Kappa Alpha Theta, Alpha Phi and Delta Gamma had joined Pi Beta Phi and Kappa on the campus.

Marie Bryden Macnaughtan, for many years a Fraternity officer and a 1956 Loyalty award recipient, described her years in 1912–16 in college as years of gracious living in an orderly community.

Each year a larger house was moved into until 1913, when one was especially built for the chapter. Buying and furnishing the 10-room, Hitt Street house was a tremendous undertaking. The chapter was limited to 25; dues were $1; and monthly board, $20.

==World War I==

World War I saw fraternity houses turned into barracks, days crowded with Red Cross work, bond drives and nursing courses. The Chapter required each girl to spend two hours per week working for the Red Cross. A large jar of rock candy served as the only “refreshments” during rush. The city of Columbia was closed during the 1918 influenza epidemic, and when flu masks were discarded and the Armistice proclaimed, a coal shortage forced the closing of the university.
The chapters of the 1920s were intimate groups on a self-contained campus. A student arrived in town on the “Wabash Cannonball” and stayed until vacation. A few cars appeared before rush week, but soon went back to the family garage. Everyone walked everywhere.

The “permanent” house became crowded, and by 1928, two annexes were in use. It was decided to build and two lots across the street were purchased. A $70,000 Georgian Colonial was built, decorated, and moved into - all in one year’s time.

When the Depression came in, lavish entertaining went out. Some students had to leave, a few chapters folded, and jobs were in demand.

==World War II==

The impact of December 7, 1941, was felt more by young alumnae than by the actives, but soon life changed drastically on campus. Servicemen replaced fraternity men; party costs were donated to the Red Cross, and gas rationing eliminated Parents Weekend.
A milestone was reached by December 1947, when the mortgage was burned, the house paid for a full five years ahead of time.

Four daughters of former university presidents were among the nearly 400 alumnae returning for the chapter’s Diamond Jubilee in 1950. A Sunday coffee given by the actives ended the program of reunions, teas and a formal banquet.

Then followed four straight years of chapter firsts in scholarship as well as Sorority Sing. Trophies crowded the sun parlor shelves including four Convention awards.

The house acquired a new Georgian front, a circular drive and a patio in the late 1950s. Panty raids hit the campus. It was an era of silliness followed by community awareness and concern.
Worthwhile projects, such as painting the Cerebral Palsy Nursery in partnership with Sigma Alpha Epsilon, continued for many years.

The Kappa Homecoming Queen was also a national chairman for the Young Democrats, an example of the political interest that marked the 1960s. Freak Week competed with Greek Week as anti-fraternity sentiment waxed then waned. Theta Chapter successfully adapted to the stresses common to the nation’s colleges in the latter part of the decade.

Columbia Kappas explored ways to make the house more comfortable for the 52 girls squeezed into space planned for 36. The house next door was purchased, and in 1968, 12 new bedrooms, four baths, a chaperone’s quarters, kitchen and dining room for 108 appeared.

The winds of a century of change had blown in Theta Chapter’s bustles and blue jeans past. The University of Missouri’s oldest fraternity for women reflected upon an impressive history and looked to the future with confidence.

'''Chapter Convention Awards:'''

1950 Fraternity Finance
1954 Standards
1962 Fraternity Appreciation
1964 Westermann Efficiency
---------------------------------
The previous information was excerpted from The History of Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity, 1870-1976, and from From Bustles to Blue Jeans, A History of Theta Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma at the University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, 1875-2000.

==Highlights of the 1970s==
During the second half of the ‘70s decade, the Mizzou campus reflected a change of mood in the country different from the turbulent years of the late ‘60s and early ‘70s when protests against the Vietnam War and “love-ins” by drug-using hippies had made the nation’s headlines. Perhaps it was a backlash from those times that gave rise to a more conservative mood in the country and on the campus.

'''Centennial''' Theta Chapter’s long-awaited centennial celebration and reunion took place the first weekend in April of 1975. More than 400 Kappas arrived in Columbia, Mo., for the birthday celebration of the founding of Theta Chapter. Alumnae in attendance included daughters of three former university presidents. There were campus and house tours and a formal banquet at which 50-year pins and chapter awards were distributed. Council greetings were expressed by Theta’s Marian Klingbeil Williams, Fraternity Director of Personnel. She presented a $1,000 rehabilitation scholarship to the university in the name of Kappa Kappa Gamma. The chapter announced that it had collected $200 for the Rusk Rehabilitation Center in Columbia, and that it was donating money for an overhead projector at Fraternity Headquarters in honor of its Centennial. The program included a light-hearted history, and misty-eyed seniors were recognized as Kappa alumnae for the first time. The Kappa Pickers entertained, charming everyone with their country-style costumes, playing on such instruments as a banjo, saw, washboard, spoons, guitar, kazoo and flour sifter and singing songs ranging from “Big Jim Folsom” to a 1940s pop medley. A Sunday brunch at the chapter house brought the festivities to a close.

The women returned home with memories of a weekend full of happy reunions with old friends, late-night talk sessions in motel rooms, leafing through scrapbooks and Savitars, catching up on what everyone had been doing over the years since leaving Mizzou. Everyone agreed it was a grand and glorious celebration of Theta Chapter’s 100th birthday.

In 1975 a Kappa was crowned Homecoming Queen - the first of a three-year succession of Kappa Homecoming Queens. 1975 also was the first year Rush Week rules permitted house tours by the rushees. In comparison to the wool dresses, suits, hose, heels, hats, gloves that were worn on the first day of rush in the 1940s and ‘50s, the women wore “T-shirts, pants, casual skirts and summer dresses” for the ’76 Rush Week. Nine hundred women went through rush the next year and Kappa picked 35 of the best. The Kappa Pickers entertained.

One special occasion at the house included a “mourning dinner” at which conversation could only be about “bad tests, teachers and this frustrating establishment called school.” The chapter began sign-ups for each meal everyday instead of signing out for the ones they intended to miss. Kappa triumphed during Greek Week ‘76. A Kappa was chosen Queen and the Kappa-Beta Theta Pi skit won first place.

During this era Theta Chapter members were active in all phases of college life. A Kappa was president of the business fraternity. Many members were fraternity “little sisters.” Some participated in intramural tennis, softball, volleyball, and basketball. Teams placed in swim and were undefeated in football. Others were cheerleaders, Golden Girls, pompon girls, and MoMaids. Kappas were chosen for many honoraries including Mortar Board, Phi Beta Kappa, Fanfare for Fifty, Who’s Who, Omicron Delta Kappa, German Honor Society, KEA, SRS. Pledges took first place in the Lambda Chi Alpha Watermelon Festival, and the Phi Psi 500 had a Kappa freshman queen.

During a visit to Theta Chapter in 1977 Fraternity President Jean Wells stated “You have one of the most gracious houses I’ve seen, thanks to your generous alumnae. I believe there is a great feeling of tradition here and strong loyalty to the chapter by both actives and alumnae. Theta Chapter is also the fourth chapter to pass its centennial mark which is something to be proud of.”

'''Housing:'''
The beautiful Georgian house that doubled in size in 1968, was filled to capacity during this decade. Seniors key privileges began (with parental permission). In the late ‘70s, seniors were allowed to live outside the house. An electric door lock was installed to eliminate lost keys and a constant ringing of the door bell. However, girls still had problems getting locked out and resorted to climbing up the fire escape. New safety features included the installation of a dawn to dusk light in the parking lot. Outside doors were replaced with Plexiglas to prevent any type of shattering caused by accidents. Smoke detectors were added.

Other improvements included a new bath tub and hot water heater, plus extensive work on the plumbing. In addition, a new range, deep fryer, and InSinkErator were acquired. China with the Kappa crest, stainless flatware, water goblets, tablecloths and napkins were all purchased to enhance life at 512 Rollins. And, several bedrooms received new dressers and bunk beds. Paint brightened the outside trim of the new wing and front door, along with the columns. Kappa Mothers made air-conditioning on the first floor possible. The new chapter room was just barely completed in time for the Zeta Province Meeting.
Coed dormitories came into vogue.

'''Philanthropy:'''
The chapter donated $200 to the Rusk Rehabilitation Center in Columbia. At Christmastime it gave door decorations to the Center, and sang carols. Kappas joined the Betas in a project at Woodhaven, a home for retarded children. In a charity carnival for Butterfield Boys Ranch sponsored by the ag fraternities, the Mizzou girls won first place.

'''Chapter Convention Awards:'''

1976 Chapter Publications
1978 Advisory Boards
---------------------------------
The previous information was excerpted from The History of Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity, 1870-1976, and from From Bustles to Blue Jeans, A History of Theta Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma at the University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, 1875-2000.

==Highlights of the 1980s==

The 1980s at 512 Rollins and on the Mizzou campus began a period of steady growth for both the entire Greek system and Theta Chapter. Some described these years as being “the height of preppy fashion.” Kappas wearing pearls wasn’t just a stereotype, it was a true statement. They also wore clothing such as wool crew-neck sweaters with turtlenecks, Polo button-downs, pleated poplin slacks, cotton sweaters, Izod knits and Barracuta jackets. During football season the Kappas wore pleated skirts with knee socks and loafers, even if it was very hot outside.
The campus was described as being carefree during this Reagan era. Girls would intern for their state senators over the summer and return with stories.

The House Director in the ‘80s was still “Mom C.” who was described as being very well mannered and expected the girls to be well mannered back. The girls worked together to keep the house in good condition for her. Mr. Paul was in charge of all of the maintenance in the house. Edna was the head cook whose kitchen was often a meeting place after class where the girls would tell her about their day and then sneak a cookie or banana.

Interest in women’s athletics and fitness was growing and Kappas won the 1980 women’s basketball intramurals. Theta Chapter received the Best Chapter award at the Zeta Province meeting in 1981, a year in which the chapter had set as its goal a strong emphasis on scholarship and increased involvement by members in house and campus activities. The year’s slogan was: “Go For It!” In 1984 the Missouri Kappas received the Standards award at the national Convention. The Mizzou girls felt that they were members of the best Kappa chapter in the world and loved to share their thoughts with rushees.

1985 was Theta Chapter’s 110th birthday. In light of the anniversary, a project called “110 Years Wonderful” set a goal to raise $200,000 by April of that year. The money was to be used to refurbish the first-floor rooms of the Kappa house, and establish a permanent fund for scholarships and house maintenance. On Friday, April 26, 1985, a dinner was held at the Columbia Country Club for this fundraiser. The following Saturday there was a tour of the newly decorated Kappa house first floor with the Standards award silver bowl proudly on display. That Saturday night there was an event in the Ramada Inn ballroom in which national Fraternity President, Marian Klingbeil Williams, Theta Chapter alumna, spoke. Other presentations included a 65-year key, 50-year pins to 10 chapter alumnae and commemorative keys to 61 major donors to the campaign.

The name of the scholarship that came from this campaign was the Golden Key Scholarship, which is still in existence. Its purpose is: “To foster and promote intellectual excellence through the granting of scholarships to qualified female undergraduate, third or fourth-year students, who belong to the National Panhellenic Conference of the Panhellenic Council at the University of Missouri-Columbia. The corporation shall not discriminate in the granting of scholarships on the basis of race, creed, color or national origin.” Some of the Kappas’ campus accolades included president of Panhellenic, Homecoming Queen, Homecoming Court, cheerleader, and Golden Girls.

In l987, rush information was computerized. Pledges had 10 hours of study hall hours assigned to them each week and the 46 pledges’ “walkout” consisted of spending the night in the United Methodist Church.

However, as this decade ended crime rates rose on campus. There was date rape, alcohol abuse and racial tension. “Unfortunately, these are the overlying issues at the University of Missouri this ’89-’90 school year” reported the Theta Chapter president. And a favorite collegian hangout, The Shack, vanished to make room for the Reynolds Alumni Center.

'''Housing:'''
The Kappa House was especially beautiful in 1984 because it had just been redecorated to a totally updated look unlike any other sorority on campus. There were about 10 sophomores at the time who had to live outside of the house. Grades were used to determine who could move in.
“110 Years Wonderful” raised $200,000 to refurbish the first-floor rooms of the Kappa house, and to establish an endowment fund for scholarships and house maintenance. In 1988 the fund made a $25,000 loan to the House Board for a new roof and new upper-story windows. Pledge class numbers increased each year from 46 in 1986 to 56 four years later putting more pressure on living space inside the house and parking space in the side lot. The 40 spaces were highly prized and a source of constant problems. The upstairs was still not air-conditioned.

Outside the front door was painted, new brass letters were hung above the door, and a restored carriage-lantern added. The front walk leading from both the driveway in back and front, and the back porch were redone to match. Inside, a second floor pipe had broken and damaged the sun porch so the far east wall, a couch and the ceiling were all redone.

'''Philanthropy:'''
With the help of the ZBTs, Theta donated $5,000 to the Cancer Society. Members gave blood and also assisted with the blood drive. Pledges assisted the Rusk Rehabilitation Center by contacted former donors.

The Golden Key Scholarship Fund (GKSF) awarded its first $1,000 scholarship for 1987-88 to a member of Alpha Omicron Pi. By 1989 the Fund had grown to $95,000 making possible the awarding of two more scholarships.

'''Chapter Convention Awards:'''

1980 Advisory Boards
1982 Efficiency (Housed)
1984 Standards
1987 Gracing Living (Housed)
---------------------------------
The previous information was excerpted from The History of Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity, 1870-1976, and from From Bustles to Blue Jeans, A History of Theta Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma at the University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, 1875-2000.

==Highlights of the 1990s==

The 1990s saw many pressures on the Greek System as hazing, drinking, and diversity became major issues. However, the “favorites” – Homecoming and Greek Week – thrived. Homecoming continued to be a much loved event. Fraternities would serenade sororities hoping they would choose them as partners for making house decorations and performing skits the night before the Homecoming game. Skits would introduce a story, create and solve the plot’s problem in six minutes. The Kappas and the Sigma Nus won first prize for house decs one year. A Kappa reigned as Greek Week Queen.
Many Kappas were vegetarians, but the most popular meal was the once-a-semester Happy Hour Buffet, featuring all junk food.

At the end of this decade many changes were in store for rush. Instead of Rush Week it became “Membership Recruitment.” Pledges became “new members.” Initiation was six weeks after Recruitment, instead of new members waiting an entire semester and making their grades. Pledge moms disappeared in favor of a Kore, made up of a sophomore, junior and senior members. No skits or decorations were permitted under the new rules. Parties became “events” and the three-party day was devoted to a philanthropy project.

'''Housing:'''
As new member class sizes rose, space in the house was at a premium. Freshman continued to live in dormitories but upper-class members and new members vied for rooms in the house. Those assured of living in were chapter officers and seniors, if they chose to do so. During 1992-94 chapter officers and the junior pledge class lived in the house while other juniors, sophomores and new initiates qualified for rooms by grade point ranking. In 1995.there were 57 pledges, and 89 girls living in the house.

The Kappa house was crammed to capacity with close to 90 girls living in and more than 100 living out. In 1999 there were 61 new members bringing the chapter total to 206 members. The dining room only could hold 180 for a formal sit-down meal.

Security became another issue. The front door code combination was changed every two weeks. Windows were wired to set off alarms in case of break-ins. Fire safety concerns initiated the installation of sprinklers, exit signs and smoke alarms. Regular fire drills were held, and lighted candles and burning logs in fireplaces became things of the past.

In August of 1998, when 900 young women went through Membership Recruitment the heat index was100˚. The Golden Key Scholarship Fund (GKSF) made possible the complete air-conditioning of the house. The Pit, the old basement study room, was converted into a computer room. The next summer the GKSF board approved a loan to renovate and refurbish the Kappa house in preparation for the chapter’s 125th anniversary. The front lawn was relandscaped, and a concrete porch with a low, red brick wall was added in the front. The slender white columns were replaced with handsome larger ones. There were new window draperies and blinds, new wallpaper and carpets, and reupholstered furniture. And, a 60” television set was installed on the east wall of the dining room.

House rules included:
•No pets allowed except fish.
•Housemother’s table must be filled first in the dining room
•Grace is sung before and after formal meals.
•A formal dinner is held every Monday night, when slacks, skirt or dress can be worn.
•Shoes must be worn at every meal.
•Boys may be in the downstairs part of the house from 8:30 a.m. to 2 a.m.
•Men are allowed upstairs on football Saturdays two hours before kick-off and one hour after the game ends.
•No alcohol is allowed on Kappa property.
•No dinner is served Sundays and football Saturdays.
•No smoking is allowed inside the house and outside preferably behind the house.
•Parking spaces are assigned first to seniors, then to junior officers, then to juniors, then sophomore officers, and last, to sophomores.

'''Philanthropy:'''
The three-day event (party) of Membership Recruitment was now devoted to philanthropy. One year potential new members and Kappas made colored tissue flowers for the Rusk Rehabilitation Center.
In 1998 the GKSF awarded seven $1,000 scholarships to Panhellenic women including two Kappas. The fund that started with $60,000 now totaled nearly $400,000. Interest from the fund’s investments had made it possible to award 54 scholarships to young women on the Mizzou campus during the preceding 11 years.
---------------------------------
The previous information was excerpted from From Bustles to Blue Jeans, A History of Theta Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma at the University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, 1875-2000.

==Highlights of 2000-2010==

In 2000 Theta Chapter proudly celebrated its 125th Anniversary. Alumnae from all over the world attended the two-day event on the MU campus. Alumna Jann Carl, co-host of Entertainment Tonight, returned to her alma mater as master of ceremonies.

Theta Chapter made excellence in scholarship a top priority for its reputation and legacy on Mizzou's campus. With its academically diverse members spanning many majors, Theta Chapter maintained a consistent presence in the top tier of sorority grades – always above the all sorority average. To encourage academic prowess, members were recognized for their accomplishments and given special treats for their hard work. Those who earned a 4.0 GPA for two consecutive semesters were given a pearl for their Kappa badge. Each member set a goal GPA in at the beginning of the semester. When she reached her goal, she was rewarded with undergarments that read “Smarty Pants.” A sophomore was presented the Koller Scholarship for Theta Chapter women with outstanding leadership and excellence. The Scholarship was established in memory of Hortense Peetse Koller, a 1933 Theta Chapter initiate.

Academic achievements also were honored at a Scholarship Dinner; faculty was recognized at a Professors’ Dessert Social; and a Scholarship Directory was provided for members to reference classes and professors. Also, guidance was offered to girls having academic difficulties, and lighthearted rewards provided for studying and final exams. Kappa established academics as a priority, and Theta Chapter continued to maintain and strengthen the fraternity's legacy of excellence at Mizzou.

Kappas served as Tri-Director for Greeks Advocating the Mature Management of Alcohol (GAMMA), and president of the University of Missouri Panhellenic Association (PHA). At the end of the decade, two Kappas were selected for Mizzou ’39, which honored 39 outstanding seniors for academic achievement, leadership and service to the university and community. Only 39 of more than 3,000 graduating seniors at the University of Missouri earned this distinction each year. This prestigious award pays tribute to the spirit of service displayed by the university's founding families in 1839.

Greek Week was a three-week-period in the spring when Greek students participated in programming, events, and service projects that celebrated the values of Greek life. It benefited approximately 15 local and national organizations with a wide variety of causes. Greek service projects raised approximately $140,000 each year for deserving organizations. During this decade Theta Chapter members won overall Greek Week, reigned as Greek Week Queen, received a Sisterhood award, the President’s Cup for Programming, and the President’s Cup for Excellence in Campus Involvement. Kappa also participated in Fling, a competition in which houses put on a skit with a preselected theme. The Mizzou girls received recognition for Blood Drive, Games, Programming, skits, Public Relations, Special Events and Sports. Houses competed in soccer, volleyball, flag football, and basketball. Those who didn’t play cheered the teams on with KKG temporary tattoos on their faces, wearing blue on blue, and shaking light-up blue maracas
Mizzou’s 99th Homecoming proved to be one of the most exciting and eventful weekends in Mizzou history. Kicking off the events was the 25th Annual Homecoming Blood Drive. Kappas and their partners helped contribute 4,217 total units of blood. Next Kappa, AEPi and Delt Sig’s Scrabble- themed skit, and both Kappa In Between Acts (IBAs), made it to finals. Two Junior Kappas performed an acoustic version of Lady Gaga’s “Pokerface,” while a member of the sophomore new member class sang “If I Die Young” by The Band Perry. Those who couldn’t be there watched from their computer screens, the first year Talent was streamed live online. The next day while throwing candy to the crowd, Kappas walked with their float in the Homecoming parade. Saturday’s football game, the ESPN College Game Day of the week against undefeated Oklahoma, marked an epic win for the Tigers.

Theta Chapter won many awards for its contributions to Homecoming activities: Banner, Talent, Campus House Decks, Decorate the District, Best Storyline for Campus Decs, Most Creative Script in Talent, Superlative Full Points in Service, Merchandise, Special Events, Best Choreography in Fling, Homecoming Overall, parade, royalty and the Spirit Award. Kappas also were on Homecoming steering committees.

Recruitment themes and skits were as creative and clever as when you were in school. Dr. Seuss’s Kappaville theme for Philanthropy Day emphasized the chapter’s commitment to Reading Is Fundamental (RIF). Potential new members received tours of the house led by enthusiastic “Cat in the Hat” guides. In 2010 chapter members sported TOMS shoes on Philanthropy Day. For every pair of shoes purchased, the TOMS organization donated a pair to children in developing countries. Another theme was the Miss Kappa Kappa Gamma Pageant hosted by the Spartan Cheerleaders. Kappa Pickers entertained.

More than 1,500 women were going through Recruitment by the end of the decade. To make more room, all the main floor furniture was moved to a truck parked behind the house. In 10 years time new member classes had increased by almost 20. Initiation had moved to the Alumni Center. Theta Chapter had 212 members, with 86 girls living in-house. There were more than 3,000 sorority members on campus, or 13% of the women students.

One of the all-time-favorite initiation gifts was Kappa Snuggies personalized to say “everybody loves to Snuggie with a KKG.” Missouri Thetas’ social side was not forgotten. They relived their high school days with a High School Throwback party. Kappas celebrated Halloween by carving pumpkins and having an "Owl-O-Ween," joint date party with Chi Omega. Kaddy Shack recognized winners of Kappa philanthropies, including the Kappa Klassic Golf Tournament. Monmouth was co-sponsored with the girls from right across the street, Pi Beta Phi. Kite & Key with Kappa Alpha Theta was a theme party held each spring. Date socials included a prohibition party and the Sapphire Ball. Kappas, went roller-skating, celebrated Staff Appreciation Week, entertained parents at “their” weekend, and transformed laundry baskets into sleds when it snowed. And they had a “Support Bra” award – for members’ efforts to support their sisters. In August of 2010, a Kappas and her fiancé won the Today Show's wedding. A CPA was hired “to help handled the KKG expenses and budget” but the position of house treasurer was retained.

A 2010 Leadership Consultant stated:”You are one of the most hospitable chapters I (have) encountered this year! You have all the pieces in place to rise together to that next level.”

'''Housing:'''
The chapter room was refurbished and christened “The Marian Klingbeil Williams Chapter Room” after the former Fraternity president who also served as president of Theta Chapter. The room features a portrait of Marian.

Renovations and repairs continued on the 80-year-old chapter house and its grounds. The bald cypress tree in the front yard was hit by lightning and couldn’t be saved. A new roof and an irrigation system were installed. Two baths on the second and third floors were remodeled. Tubs were removed, more showers added, tiles and sinks replaced. The New Member Room was remodeled twice during this decade. Comfortable furniture, carpeting, and lighting were added. The third floor television room was gutted and remodeled with new carpet and furniture. New blinds were added on the north side following the previous year’s upgrade of the south side. The House Director’s quarters were updated. Composites photos were hung on the second and third floors. A handicap accessible bathroom was added on the first floor off of the sunroom at the back of the house.

'''Philanthropy:'''
The Columbia Boys and Girls Club was Theta’s main philanthropy for many years. Besides donating money earned from their annual Kappa Klasic Golf Tournament, members would visit several times a week to do art projects with the children. As profits from the golf tournament increased to about $20,000, other beneficiaries were added. These included the Voluntary Action Center, Lutheran Family and Children Services, and the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Two years the Mizzou girls raised more money for their philanthropy than any other fraternity or sorority on campus.

The women of Kappa Kappa Gamma also participated in the RAMS philanthropy, one of the biggest events at Mizzou. RAMS raised money for Multiple Sclerosis. One of the events was the Rock-It lip-synching competition, held at the Blue Note in downtown Columbia. Kappa chose to compete with a Lady Gaga theme as “Kappa Kappa Gaga”. The girls had fun lip-synching, dancing, and dressing up to the sassy music of Lady Gaga.

The chapter collected books and donated them to children in the Columbia area. They participated in, and won, Dream Girl competition that assisted solders overseas. They worked with other Greek and campus philanthropy events benefiting the Children’s Miracle Network, the Salvation Army North American Food Drive, Rainbow House of Mid-Missouri, Coyote Hill Children’s Home, and the University of Missouri’s Safe Driver Program.

In 2010 Theta Chapter instituted a yearly grant program for its philanthropy with the recipient chosen by the entire Chapter from applications. The first recipient was Cedar Creek Therapeutic Riding Center, which provided horseback riding therapy to people with disabilities of all ages in the Mid-Missouri area. The donation helped provide scholarships for participants with the Center. The women of Theta Chapter also volunteered throughout the year at Cedar Creek.
The Golden Key Scholarship Fund (GKSF) increased its scholarships from $1,000 to $2,000, and then to $3,000 at the end of the decade. Approximately 12 outstanding Greek women attending the University of Missouri-Columbia received scholarships each year.

'''Chapter Convention Awards:'''

2004 Effective Chapter Management
2006 Recruitment (10-14 Panhellenic groups)
2006 Adelphi Society Bronze
2006 Public Relations Honorable Mention
2006 Philanthropy 1-2-3 Honorable Mention
2006 Advisory Board Honorable Mention
2006 Technology Honorable Mention
2006 Gracious Living Honorable Mention (Housed)
2008 Most Outstanding Chapter
2010 Academic Excellence Honorable Mention
2010 Recruitment Honorable Mention
---------------------------------
The previous information was excerpted from issues of The Theta News, the Golden Key Scholarship Fund newsletter, and The Key.

==Highlights of 2011-2019==

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.:

==2012==

2012 was yet another very positive year for the Theta Chapter at the University of Missouri. Our wonderful house director Linda Orman did an outstanding job with not only keeping up the house but with the 88 women living under the same roof. President Hannah Bartfield along with the other newly elected officers of chapter council kept the momentum going with fulfilling the roles and responsibilities given to them. Theta Chapter as a whole benefited tremendously from the work these lovely women devoted to our chapter.

Similar to last February, on the 23rd Kappa participated in one of the University of Missouri’s largest philanthropies known as RAMS. RAMS, which stands for Rockin’ Against Multiple Sclerosis, offers multiple events over a course of different days. There is a t-shirt sale competition, Cup Night sales, Jail ‘n Bail, comedy night and many other activities. To keep our chapter informed as to when activities were going on we had head liaisons. Our very own Lilli Robinson did a great job with keeping us organized and informed on all the RAMS events. Another fun activity put on by RAMS was the skit and dance competition. The kappa dancers along with a few others participated in this event. Our theme was Kray in Love inspired by the power couple Jay Z and Beyoncé. Though this was not the only thing keeping the Kappa women busy during February. Prohibition, the annual date social was held on February 25th where they dressed up as flappers and gangsters with their dates. Not only where the woman of Kappa busy during February but the Theta Chapter house was as well. The City of Columbia’s Historic Preservation Commission named Kappa to the Most Notable Properties list. Kappa was built in 1929, making it one of the oldest sorority houses on the Mizzou campus. Members of Kappa were invited to a gala event put on by the City of Columbia to honor our Chapter and beautiful home.

During March, Theta Chapter was very busy. Kappa held the annual Signature Event. This event is put on for Kappa’s national philanthropy RIF (Reading is Fundamental). We kept with past year’s theme of Dr. Seuss since it was such a success with the students at Blue Ridge Elementary School. Shelby Harper, Kappa’s Beneficiary Chairman did a wonderful job planning various activities for the kids to participate in. On the weekend of March 2th, Kappa also welcomed their mothers to Columbia, Missouri from all over the country to celebrate Mom’s Weekend. Shelby Harper also did a fantastic job planning Mom’s weekend. Friday night started out with a Boutique night at the Kappa house! Vendors such as Silpada, Stella & Dot, and Lilly Dawson were there to show off their merchandise to the girls and their mothers! After this, Kappa was invited to participate in Karaoke night at Fieldhouse in downtown Columbia with our future Greek Week partners, Phi Kappa Theta. On Saturday, many girls spent the day relaxing with their moms, going shopping, and getting their nails done! Saturday night was Comedy Night at Deja Vu. We heard the jokes from the hilarious Greg Warren, who happened to be a Mizzou alum! Winding down the weekend, brunch was served at Kappa on Sunday morning. It was such a nice weekend enjoyed with the ladies we love and adore.

April was a very exciting month around kappa. On Thursday, April 26th, Kappa girls primped themselves to look their absolute finest for the annual Sapphire Ball. Everyone looked stunning, danced the night away and had a fabulous time with their lucky dates. Though the most exciting news around the house was winning Greek Week overall. We were paired with the men of Phi Kappa Theta and Beta Sigma Psi. We were fierce competitors in sports such as soccer, basketball, volleyball, flag football and our surprise event tee ball. Those who didn’t play in the games cheered loudly from the sidelines, painted fleur-de-lis on their faces, rocked signature KKG sunglasses and spirit gear. The fans continued to show their support even in the pouring rain. Our efforts together brought us to the top!

During the Spring 2011 semester, Kappa Kappa Gamma's at Mizzou were recognized for various campus honors such as, Mizzou 39 and being tapped into various honor societies. Congratulations to Ashley D., Lauren F., Morgan S., and Leslie F. for being chosen for Mizzou 39! Mizzou 39 is a group of elite seniors at the University of Missouri who have consistently upheld the values that Mizzou represents. In addition, they have been extremely involved on campus, through service work and maintained dedication to their schoolwork. Congratulations to Amanda S. and Meg S. for all being tapped into the honor society, Omicron Delta Kappa! ODK is a secret and highly selective national honor society that chooses its members based upon rigorous involvement in collegiate areas such as, scholarship, athletics, campus involvement and various other academic-based sectors. Also, Congratulations to Morgan A. for being tapped into the honor society, QEBH. QEBH is the oldest of the six secret honors societies on Mizzou's campus. While the actual name and inner workings of QEBH are kept secret, we do know that they keep the Victory Bell, a trophy that has gone home with the winner of the Missouri-Nebraska football game since 1927. Another congratulations goes to Erin H. on winning the Missouri Journalism Larry Powell Award! This award is given to one MOJO student each semester for being awesome!

Though it was the end of the school year at the University of Missouri Kappa’s were keeping busy. Three Kappas’s spent their summer in New York City to complete internships. Karee Hackel was an intern to Seventeen Magazine. Maddie Aberman served as an intern to Allure magazine. And Hannah Bartfield was an intern for Donna Karen in the textiles department. Other Kappa’s were spending their summer traveling the world and spending time with family.

After reuniting with old friends, Mizzou Kappa’s dove into “Work Week” to prepare for Recruitment. After a summer of preparation, Jess Winfry and Lisa Davidson led the chapter in putting on an outstanding recruitment. Work Week had a few themed days in which the girls had a lot of fun with such as “Decades,” “USA,” and a day where each pledge class competes to have the best theme. All of the hard work put into Work Week paid off during recruitment week. Some of the highlights of recruitment week included our amazing skit performed on Sisterhood Day that is consistently hilarious every year. This year’s theme was the Kappa Kappa Gamma pageant. Who would be Miss Kappa Kappa Gamma? On Philanthropy day, the house was transformed in to the world of Dr. Seuss. Elaborate decorations of “Who-ville” filled the house, fishbowls lined the dining room tables, and spirited girls gave tours of the upstairs dressed as Cat in the Hat. Finally, on Bid Day, a beautiful banner sporting the phrase “Kappa Karnival,” as that was our theme, was hanging from the columns of the house. All of the actives were eagerly anticipating the new members arrival. When they arrived, new members were showered with gifts and hugs and enjoyed a Bid Day up in hot air balloons and playing Karnival games.

Thursday, September 27th, was a very exciting day to be a KKG at Mizzou! All in one night, we had Pledge Family Reveal and our Marriage Party for Homecoming with the men of Delta Tau Delta. The sophomore pledge class was thrilled to become Pledge Moms and the New Members were even more excited to become someone's Pledge Daughter! And as far as the juniors and seniors go, let's just say they were very excited to welcome someone new into their pledge family...but not so much about being called someone's "Pledge Grandma" or "Pledge Great-Grandma" ;-). Sophomores were in charge of making shirts for their pledge family and all of them turned out adorable! After the Reveal, each Pledge Family went out to enjoy a nice dinner. Later on in the night, Kappa’s proceeded to get hitched to our Homecoming partners, Delta Tau Delta. The theme for the night was "That Used To Be Cool". Girls and boys alike got super creative with their costume ideas and dug out their most prized clothing back from middle school.

With homecoming coming up Kappa could not be more proud of our sister Morgan Adrian for being nominated for Mizzou's Top 10 Homecoming Royalty. Not only was she nominated. Morgan went on to win Homecoming Queen!

November was yet another busy month around Kappa. The women of Kappa and the men of Delta Tau Delta took on Mizzou's 101st Annual Homecoming Celebration with the theme of "Roaring 20s"! Overall, we took home 4th place! The other categories, we placed as follows: 1st place Merchandise, 1st place Royalty, 1st place Service, 2nd place Blood, 3rd place Talent, Best Vocals. November 2nd and 3rd, we welcomed 89 New Members into our wonderful sisterhood! During I-week, members showed their spirit by wearing different colors each day. In addition, there were fun activities planned to build the bond of Kappa's sisterhood. Tuesday, we rented out a movie theatre to see the movie "Pitch Perfect". Wednesday, the wonderful Christen E. conducted a "Blue and Blue" photo shoot for all of the New Members. For dinner on Thursday, pledge families got together and enjoyed a fun dinner! Friday was the beginning of a fun-filled and very successful Initiation! Thank you to our Marshal, Kaylen K., her assistants, Chapter Council, and all the alumnae who put in so much hard work throughout the week/weekend and made this Initiation one to remember.

On Wednesday, November 14th, everyone celebrated the largest and most successful philanthropy yet raising $35,000! Great work, Kelly S. and Shelby H. Kaddy Shack is a social in honor of the two golf teams who win the Kappa Klassic (Kappa’s philanthropy). Congratulations to Jory M. and Paola R. on being elected to Mizzou's Panhellenic Association! Jory will be the next VP of Public Relations and Paola will take over the position of VP of Risk Management. Good job girls, you make our chapter so proud. As per usual, Kappa and Pi Beta Phi celebrated the founding of our sororities at the same college, Monmouth! The first night was costume night and the following night was a bonfire and hayride. On the Sunday following Initiation, the Columns Ballroom at the University Club was filled with over 260 actives and alumni. The Kappa ladies ate a lunch of dijon chicken while they listened to the wonderful keynote speaker, Vivian B., inform us of the history of Theta Chapter. Representatives from each pledge class spoke beautifully about their experiences in Kappa, and we were honored to give out three 50-year pins and one 65-year pin. Everyone enjoyed listening to the Kappa Pickers sing “Drifter” and sophomore, Lindsay P., sing her original song “The Beautiful and Good”.

In December, the ladies danced the night away at the last social of the year, Semi-Formal. With finals approaching, stress levels built, and Kappa’s were ready for the holiday season. Though upon return from Thanksgiving break, elections for the new Chapter Council were held. This year an interview was included in the application process to choose the most devoted and deserving Kappa members for positions.

One of the biggest changes that occurred in 2012 here on at University of Missouri was entering the SEC. It has been a great experience for not only the University but the students as well. The atmosphere during sporting events is something you do not want to miss. Fans come from miles away to support both Mizzou and the opposing team.

Here at Kappa you will find a wonderful friendship that doesn’t end in four years, it lasts a lifetime. Within these walls something special is found, it is a bond that cannot be broken. It is a bond that brings us all together though our personalities are so different. Though our personalities may vary the relationship we have with each other does not. We are so close and always there to lend a helping hand or a shoulder for other sisters to lean on. If someone were to describe our chapter in a few words the description would be, Kappa is a house full of smart, caring, outgoing girls that will always be there for you. The women of Theta chapter never turn their backs on each other.

==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:'''

'''Philanthropy:'''

'''Chapter Convention Awards:'''

----------------

'''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 a complete and accurate history of your chapter for future generations to enjoy!

Beta Xi

2013-10-19T17:12:31Z

Desertdawg:

{{Infobox Fraternity
|Name= Beta Xi
|GreekSymbol= BΞ
|Image= [[File:Beta_Xi.jpg|200px]]
|Founded= {{start date and years ago|1902|05|12}}
|College= [http://www.utexas.edu/ University of Texas at Austin]
|Location= Austin, TX
|Homepage= [https://chapters.kappakappagamma.org/betaxi/ Beta Xi Homepage]
|Media= [http://wiki.kappakappagamma.org/index.php?title=Category:Beta_Xi Media related to Beta Xi Chapter]}}
----

'''University of Texas at Austin established in 1883, Austin, Texas'''

'''Founded May 12, 1902 with 9 charter members'''

'''4,448 initiates (as of June 2013)'''

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'''Some of Beta Xi’s Outstanding Members:''' (If you have chapter alumnae who have received recognition in any of these three categories, please list them with the date(s) of recognition.)

'''Fraternity Council Members:'''

Della Lawrence Burt, Grand Secretary 1920-1922, Executive Secretary 1922-1929;
Dorothy McCampbell Nowell, Director of Chapters 1962-1966;
Eloise Moore Netherton, Director of Philanthropies 1982-1986, Vice President1986-1988;
Carolyn Boyle (Hasskarl), Field Secretary 1945-1947; Lisa VanStavern (Hunziker), Traveling Consultant 1993-1994

'''Fraternity Loyalty Award:'''

'''Fraternity Alumnae Achievement Award Recipients:'''
Helen Knox, 1952, banker, author, Red Cross volunteer;
Prudence Mahaffey Mackintosh, 1988, author of books and magazines;
Miley Tucker Busiek (Frost), 1990, sculptor whose work appears on the $50gold bullion coin;Sunny Hare Scribante, 2012, philanthropist; Dorothy Slator Paterson, 2014, international volunteer, breast health awareness advocate; Rosemary Dunaway Trible, 2014, TV host, author, foounder Fear2Freedom Foundation;

'''Additional Outstanding Beta Xi Alumnae:'''
Ann Haun (Barlow), Graduate Counselor 1961-1962;
Nancy Haun (Dozier), Graduate Counselor 1959-1960;

---------------------------

==The Early Years==

Texas won its independence in April 1863, and 18 months later a bill was introduced in the Congress of the Republic of Texas to incorporate the University of Texas. However, the act that finally established the university was not passed until 1881. Two years later, classes were opened in the incomplete west wing of the Old Main Building with 221 enrolled in that first class of 1883.

Only 19 years later, Kappa Kappa Gamma established its first southern chapter by granting a charter to Beta Xi on May 12, 1902. Interesting events led directly to the colonization.

In 1898, a local organization (Delta Delta Delta) was organized by a group of girls in Grace Hall. Soon male friends of this group, by this time known as Delta Zeta, advised the petitioning of Kappa, and in the spring of 1899, the group sent its first formal petition. Refusal came the following fall.

Another local, Tri Sigma, also petitioned Kappa, and it too, was refused. Matters seemed hopeless. The Fraternity did not want them and the university authorities did not want the Fraternity. Worse still, a crowd of town students who had twice petitioned Kappa and twice been refused, seemed to have finally secured a charter and were planning to enter the university. For one week, the Tri Sigmas and Delta Zetas grieved in secret, feeling that it was a Kappa charter these other girls had won, but it was Pi Beta Phi.

In the fall of 1901, the two locals joined forces and wrote to the Grand Secretary of Kappa. Petition blanks arrived late in January and were sent off the next day. This time the decision was unanimously in favor, and on May 12, 1902, Beta Xi Chapter was formally installed, followed by a grand banquet at the Driskill Hotel, the height of glory in those days.

'''Housing'''

At first, the new chapter met in a single rented room furnished with a small table, three chairs, a tiny stove, and a piano. In 1903, the first house was rented. Only active members could live there by university rule. The chapter moved six times in 19 years.

In 1920-1921, a corporation of Kappa alumnae in Texas was organized, and each member signed a note for $100, payable in 10 years. Thus, a home was bought at 2400 Rio Grande Street, and in September 1924, the Beta Xis moved in. It was in this house that the chapter became noted for its “Hedge Test”—rumor having it that if a rushee did not touch the hedge on the south side of the Kappa house with both hips as she went through, she was not “Kappa material!”

In the early 1930s, the house association of Beta Xi received its charter and notified all members of Beta Xi who had paid $25 or more to the (now) defunct Texas Association that they were automatically members of the new association. All other Beta Xis in good standing were notified that they could become members by paying $25. From then on, all new Beta Xis were asked to sign $100 notes. It is significant that there were only three treasurers of the house association in 37 years.

The house on Rio Grande could hold only 15 to 20 girls, and, because the Fraternity had agreed to 100 girls including pledges, the “Brown Lot” was purchased in the fall of 1936. The old house was sold for $15,000 in December of 1938, and the new Georgian Colonial home at 2001 University Avenue was occupied in September 1939, with room for 40. In the 1970s, 58 active members lived in the home.

At one time, additional housing space was acquired and a house just behind the main house was bought, renovated and completed in 1965. But in 1966, this annex was bought by the university, spreading far beyond its original 40 acres.

'''Honors and Traditions'''

Beta Xi made outstanding contributions to the Fraternity. Della Lawrence (Burt) was elected Grand Secretary at the 1920 Convention, and in 1922 was made the first Executive Secretary when the position was created at the Convention in Glacier National Park.

The chapter had the honor of having one of its charter members become the first president of Theta Province. In 1917, another chapter member succeeded her. Beta Xi hosted the second Province Convention in May 1927, during which the chapter celebrated its 25th anniversary. The Key Ring, the province newspaper, was begun during another member’s term as Province President, 1925-27.

==World War II Years==

A change came about with the entry of the United States in World War II. Social and campus activities were replaced with war work and defense projects. Many hours were devoted to layette sewing for the Nora Waln project, and weekly schedules included bandage rolling, hospital and nurse’s aide work, canteen duty, and assistance with bond drives. For two successive years, Beta Xi made the largest pledge of any campus organization to the War Chest.

Social and campus life returned to its customary places as the war drew to a close, but many old patterns changed. A Kappa was elected University Sweetheart at the annual Round-Up, and the introduction of touch football into the intramural program gave birth to a colorful extra-intramural private contest between Pi Phi and Kappa—the Powder Bowl.

==The 1950s==
The chapter received the Standards Cup in 1950, and Helen Knox was given the Alumnae Achievement Award for banking in 1952.

It was with great pride that the 50th anniversary of Beta Xi was celebrated in May 1952 with a riverboat ride and a picnic at Green Shores. Kappas came from far and wide, and the occasion was climaxed by a historical pageant and the presentation of fleur-de-lis pins to eight of the nine founders (charter members). For this Golden Anniversary, a Beta Xi directory was sold for $1 each. The money was used to establish the Beta Xi Scholarship Fund.

==The 1960s==
The passage of civil rights legislation during the 1960s prompted major changes on campus. In the spring of 1965, the university discontinued all control of student housing, except that which was actually owned and operated by the school. Therefore, with all sorority houses individually owned by their corporation boards, the Panhellenic Council voted in 1967 to dissolve itself as a recognized student organization, hence no longer subject to university regulations or eligible to use university facilities.

At this point, Panhellenic became incorporated. Eloise Moore Netherton and another Kappa served for many years on the seven-member board of trustees.

==The 1970s==

For more than three decades, Beta Xi had a special friend and supporter, a Gamma Lambda, Middlebury, Kappa, who was first assistant dean of women and then dean of students before her retirement. In October 1973, Beta Xi proudly presented her with her 50-year pin.

Through Kappa leadership in Panhellenic in 1971, the Referral Counseling Program was initiated in cooperation with the university and student health center. This program trained key actives, alumnae and housemothers in each sorority to be mental health resource persons, to help with chapter education, and to be equipped to refer girls to the proper sources for help with any problem.

There have been many chapter philanthropy projects. In “A Run for Their Lives,” Beta Xi met the challenge of Beta Theta Chapter, Oklahoma, in a fundraising football marathon run to the Cotton Bowl. The joint Kappa venture raised $12,000 for muscular dystrophy.

Houston-Austin area Beta Xis were active and loyal women, distinguished in many fields. One of the youngest was chosen “Outstanding Teenager in America” in 1968. She lived with families in Spain and Switzerland and served as a volunteer at San Jose Clinic as an interpreter.

Another alumna was a Lady in the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre, a Papal honor. Another Kappa, an artist with portraits in college libraries in three states, received the Houston Panhellenic Citation for long, outstanding service.

A Kappa alumna gave the Charlotte Barrell Ware Standards Cups in 1934, and when it was retired in 1970 because all available engraving space had filled, she replaced the original award with a beautiful sliver punch bowl, tray, ladle, and cups. She had long been a generous supporter of the Rose McGill Fund. This Kappa was the first female member of the Board of Regents of the University of Houston, and received the Matrix Award of Theta Sigma Phi (Women in Journalism). She served as mentor and president of Girlstown, USA. In 1958, she and her husband established a foundation to give financial support to medical research, education, and cultural advancement. The Fraternity awarded a silver tray to this Beta Xi alumna in 1974 as “recognition for her devotion and service to Kappa Kappa Gamma.”
---------------------------------
The previous information was adapted from The History of Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity, 1870-1976. The information that follows has been gleaned from available resources including Chapter History Reports, chapter meeting minutes, letters and comments from chapter members and alumnae, the Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity Archives, and The Key. Each chapter is expected to update its history record annually. Contact Fraternity Headquarters at kkghq@kkg.org with questions.
--------------------------------

==Highlights of the 1980s==
Beta Xi continued to prosper in the 1980s. In 1987, Kappa and other sororities on campus officially became associated with the University of Texas at Austin. Although the association brought challenges, the chapter welcomed the change. Summer Rush was always an event the Kappas eagerly anticipated, and the chapter regularly added large pledge classes of 50 or more women. Beta Xi was busy with many sisterhood activities, such as Kappa Casual in November, but also made time for events with other Panhellenic groups, including Monmouth with Pi Beta Phi and Kite and Key with Kappa Alpha Theta.

The chapter worked hard to improve its scholarship and to encourage academic excellence. “Smarties” awards were handed out at chapter meetings to recognize members who had a scholarly accomplishment. In-house sisters received Scholarship Scoops, paper ice cream scoops that were taped on the Kappa’s door, after earning a good grade. For each three scoops earned, the Kappa received a yummy treat—a certificate for ice cream!
Beta Xi members were involved with a variety of activities on UT’s campus. However, many of the sisters contributed to different groups and programs within the chapter. By the 1980s, Beta Xi formed its own Kappa Pickers musical group. The sisters also focused on developing leadership skills, and in February 1989, chapter officers attended a Greek Leadership Conference.

Throughout the decade, the chapter continued to forge relations with alumnae. A picnic with local alumnae often kicked off the school year, and Founders Day was celebrated each year with alumnae. At Halloween, active members often went trick-or-treating with the children of alumna members. Beta Xi sisters worked with alumnae to implement the Alum Chum program, which paired a new member with an alumna mentor. In 1987, Beta Xi received a visit from former Fraternity President Jean Hess Wells, Georgia, who helped the sisters better appreciate the history and ritual of the Fraternity.

'''Housing:'''

In 1987, Beta Xi worked to renovate the chapter’s house under the guidance of the “Building the Legacy” Committee, a group responsible for organizing and raising funds for the work. The living room was repainted and new items added to the common rooms. Two years later, in 1989, ceiling fans were installed in each room of the house, to the delight of the residents.

'''Philanthropy:'''

Beta Xi was busy with philanthropic activities in the 1980s. The chapter organized a canned food drive as well as painted the house of someone in need. In addition, the Kappas attended a casino night at a local nursing home. The chapter contributed to the Adopt-A-School program and the Helping Hands Project. Chapter women volunteered their time to serve food at the concessions stand at the Legends Golf Tournament.

'''Convention Awards:'''

==Highlights of the 1990s==
In 1990, Beta Xi faced changes in the Rush schedule at UT. Instead of summer Rush, the events were held slightly later in the year and became fall Rush. Even with the changes, Kappa still proved successful each year. Chapter Council members attended a Greek Leadership Conference throughout the decade. The chapter continued to host programs to benefit members, such as talks about issues like campus safety and eating disorders and workshops on résumé writing and relaxation techniques. Beta Xi improved its relationship with the University by hosting guest lunches and study snacks for students outside the Fraternity and holding a professor lunch to recognize the outstanding faculty at UT.

Each year, Beta Xi hosted Kappa Casual and Junior/Senior Night, an evening of togetherness for the junior and senior classes before graduation. Owl-O-Ween was a popular event, as was Monmouth with Pi Phi. Mom’s Weekend and Dad’s Day brought family members to campus, and the Kappa Pickers regularly performed at the various events. These fun activities certainly promoted sisterhood as well as Panhellenic pride.

'''Housing:'''

In 1990, Beta Xi received the gift of new furniture in the bedrooms of the house. The chapter members were grateful to the House Board for the new beds and dressers.

'''Philanthropy:'''

Philanthropy remained important to Beta Xi throughout the 1990s. The chapter regularly served food at the concessions at the Legends of Golf tournament to raise funds for charity. In 1990, the Kappas established the “Key to the Heart” volleyball tournament as the chapter philanthropy event. A few years later, Beta Xi began to host its annual Kappa Klassic Pool Tournament, which benefitted Children’s Shelter, a battered women’s shelter, the Austin Child Guidance Center, and the Children’s Advocacy Center throughout the years. Habitat for Humanity also became an important project for the chapter.

In 1995, the Kappas worked with Sig Ep to repair and repaint a house for an underprivileged elderly widow. The chapter women took time each year to participate in Challenger Little League, where the members coached and cheered for disabled children.

Other philanthropic activities included hosting a blood drive for Brackenridge Hospital, volunteering at Barton House Alzheimer’s Unit, donatng to a deaf community’s garage sale as well as to Goodwill, and participating in the Texas Relays tournament, an AIDS walk, and Forty Acres Fest. In 1998, Beta Xi hosted a ticket-selling fundraiser where the chapter raised over $3,000 for Blue Mist, a band comprised of blind musicians.

'''Convention Awards:'''

==Highlights of 2000-2010==
Beta Xi welcomed the new millenium 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 the chapter’s G.P.A. by implementing the “Owl Jar” program, which recognized members for their hard work, and introducing the “Study Fairy,” a magical being who rewarded Kappas found studying on campus.

Social events included Kappa Cocktail, Owl-O-Ween, Monmouth Duo with Pi Beta Phi, Kappa/Tri-Delt Ranch, Parents’ Weekend, Mom and Dad Weekends, 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 alumnae.

'''Housing:'''
Beta Xi continued to occupy the chapter house throughout the decade.

'''Philanthropy:'''

Philanthropy was a priority for Beta Xi in the twenty-first century. The chapter maintained traditions such as the Kappa Klassic Pool Tournament, which raised almost $5,000 for a charity in 2006. Other philanthropic activities included holding a Chili Cookoff with the Tri-Delts, volunteering with for the SPCA and the Highland Park Elementary Halloween carnival, decorating the Children’s Hospital for various holidays, hosting Easter and Halloween parties for local children, and making Christmas cookies for hospitalized children. Children have always been a major focus for the group, and in 2008, the sisters provided free winter coats to children through Coats for Kids.

Two new philanthropy traditions began during this decade. In 2009, Beta Xi hosted its first Kappa Cookout, an event that invited community members to join the sisters for delicious catered food. That year, the proceeds from selling tickets to the event, $7,600, went to The Austin Children’s Shelter. The following year, the chapter raised more than $8,000 and donated the proceeds to the RIF (Reading is Fundamental)of Austin, specifically to the Palm Elementary School. Donations were also made to the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation. The other new philanthropic event was a powder puff football game with Pi Beta Phi. Proceeds from the tickets were donated to the Davis Moon Project, a non-profit organization that collects books to be hand-delivered through organized literacy mission trips in Addis, Ethiopia.

'''Convention Awards:'''

==Highlights of 2011-2019==

==2011==
In 2011, Beta Xi focused on strengthened sisterhood and encouraging scholarly achievement. A chapter retreat was held for the benefit of the members and “get-to-know-you” games were played at the Kappa house. Sisterhood activities included Nightmare on 6th Street, Tri-Delt Ranch, Kappa Cocktail, and Monmouth. The Vice President-Academic Excellence stressed the importance of good grades with the new “Smarty Pants” system at chapter meetings. Alumnae members are often invited to campus to speak to the chapter about job applications and careers.

'''Housing:'''
Beta Xi is currently one of only two Greek houses on the University of Texas at Austin campus in which. 60 members are able to live, most usually live in during their junior or senior year. Every Monday, the sisters gather for dinner before the chapter meeting, and lunch is provided every day for members. Every two weeks, a delicious Mexican Guest Lunch is held where Kappas can bring a guest from outside of the Fraternity.

'''Philanthropy:'''
Beta Xi continued hosting the spring Easter party and the fall Halloween party for local elementary students every year. In 2011, the Kappa Cookout was again held by the chapter and raised $7,800 for the Davis Moon Project, an organization previously supported by Beta Xi’s efforts. Kappa once again faced off in a game of powder puff football against Pi Phi, an event that raised approximately $5,000 for the Austin Children’s Shelter.

==2012==
The 2012 calendar year started off with the newly elected officers of the Beta Xi chapter making a smooth transition into their new positions. Chapter Council also kicked off the year by hosting the LEAD seminar with Kappas from Texas A&M and Texas Tech. The chapter council, led by President Erin Weitzel, met every Sunday evening to plan upcoming meetings and events throughout the year. Erin implemented pillars of organization and enthusiasm which set the tone for the chapter council officers. This was a very important year for Beta Xi and many improvements were made to better our chapter this past year. The officers worked very hard to better the chapter and efficiently and effectively follow out their duties.

Callie Williams, Vice President of Organization, maintained an organized calendar of all the events throughout the year 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 the goals of the Chapter for the upcoming year. Callie also assisted with giving 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 Pugliese, Vice President of Standards, worked with her committee to perfect the bus system and make sure members were upholding the standards of the Fraternity policy. Laurel also organized the Chapter retreat at Alamo Draft house in January to encourage chapter-wide bonding. All of Beta Xi attended for singing and dancing to 90's music. Laurel also planned many events for the Chapter to increase bonding such as movies at the house or profit shares at Red Mango.

Ady Wetegrove, Vice President Academic Excellence, helped our Chapter improve our overall GPA to be above the All Sorority Average for the Spring of 2012. She and her committee held individuals more accountable for their individual grades while providing them assistance. She also incorporated “office hours” for New Members and any other members needing further guidance during registration for the Spring 2013 semester. She also organized study snacks at the house on Tuesday and continued the "Smarty Pants" system from last year.

Philanthropy Chairman Margaret Smith and Assistant Philanthropy Chairs Ellen Perkins and Courtney Catalani worked together to plan all chapter-wide philanthropy events. Margaret made some changes this year to our program with the national philanthropy, Reading is Fundamental. She planned a Reading Festival 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 Fall, Pi Phi vs. Kappa philanthropy powder puff game in the spring, and got members involved with the Wonderball where we went dressed up as princesses and helped with face paint and costumes. Margaret provided the chapter with many other volunteer activities such as Kisses from Kappa on Valentines Day where we took valentine goodies to a retirement home.

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 of helping keep members active and bridged the gap between the chapter, university, parents, and alums. She created a monthy newsletter to send out to parents of Kappas and the Beta Xi chapter. She also planned the Easter and Halloween party, both were held at the house for alumni and their children. 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 and sent it out to the Chapter.

Kathryn Uecker, Fraternity Education Chairman, was in charge of planning program nights at the house. She provided the chapter with fun speakers and programs such as Zumba. Another large improvement was made by Kathryn by re-implement Senior Programming – a once a month program night for Seniors in place 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 area.

Mary Beth Burgher, Membership Chairman, assisted by Sullivan Franklin-Mitchell, Isabel Dann, Molly Henson 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. 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.

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 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.

Kelly Bowman, House Chairman, served as a liason between the in house girls, staff, and Miss Judi. She helped organize and clarify the house points system and selecting 60 members of the chapter to live in the house. She met with the staff and Miss Judi to make sure the house was running smoothly and attended house board meetings. Kelly provided gifts for the staff throughout the year. She also organized Sunday dinners for in house girls that were provided from local Austin restaurants.

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 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.

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 Beta Xi chapter has many strengths and some weaknesses that we improved on in 2012. As a chapter we are extremely unified. Throughout all grades girls are friends and spend lots of time together. Every day you can see many girls across campus wearing Kappa shirts. We are extremely proud of our Chapter and members are very dedicated to Beta Xi. We lacked in communication between the Chapter and Chapter Council and we worked very hard to fix that and now have clarity between the two.

==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:'''

'''Philanthropy:'''

'''Convention Awards:'''

-------------------------------
'''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 a complete and accurate history of your chapter for future generations to enjoy!

Beta Lambda

2013-10-19T17:08:13Z

Desertdawg:

{{Infobox Fraternity
|Name= Beta Lambda
|GreekSymbol= BɅ
|Image= [[File:Beta_Lambda.jpg|200px]]
|Founded= {{start date and years ago|1899|04|28}}
|College= [http://www.uillinois.edu/ University of Illinois]
|Location= Urbana, IL
|Homepage= [http://www.kkgillinois.com/home Beta Lambda Homepage]
|Media= [http://wiki.kappakappagamma.org/index.php?title=Category:Beta_Lambda Media related to Beta Lambda Chapter]
}}

'''University of Illinois established in 1867, Urbana, Illinois'''

'''Founded April 28, 1899 -- 5 charter members'''

'''3,055 initiates (as of June 2013)'''

----

'''Some of Beta Lambda’s Outstanding Alumnae'''

'''Fraternity Council:'''

'''Fraternity Loyalty Award Recipients:'''

'''Fraternity Alumnae Achievement Award Recipients:'''

Eleanor Jewett Lundberg, 1958, Art critic for the Chicago Tribune, writer and member of numerous art societies; Polly Knipp Hill, 1962, Etcher and painter; Adlon Dohme Jorgensen (Rector), 1994, Former University of Illinois Greek Adviser; Elizabeth Hausler Strand, 2014, engineering;

'''Additional Outstanding Alumnae:'''

Karen Pszanka Layng, 2008, elected chairman of the litigation group for the law firm Vedder Price P. C. in Chicago. Pszanka Layng served on the firm’s board of directors beginning in 2001 and in 2008 served as chairman of the Compensation Committee; Lara Meinheit (Miller), Chapter Consultant 1990-1991, Convention Chairman 2012-current

'''Convention Awards''':

1976: Cultural Program Award
1986: Scholarship Award

-------------------------

==The Early Years==

Katharine Lucinda Sharp, former Grand President, first director of the library school at the University of Illinois, and Frances Simpson, a student at the new school, whished there could be a Kappa chapter at Illinois. They had both been members of Upsilon Chapter at Northwestern University.

Secrecy about plans was maintained until 1899, when six students were approached. A second petition to university officials was heartily approved, covering material was sent to Grand Council, and the waiting period brought the group close in spirit.

In April 1899, the charter was granted, with Installation on the 28th. Carla Fern Sargent (Fisk), Northwestern, Grand Secretary, and Epsilon Chapter officiated. An article in The Key, 1899, gives the full account, commenting on the ‘fine new library building, the most ornamental structure on the campus.” Gifts included a Bible, a guest book, archives chest (from Miss Sharp), pillows, pictures (Knocking and Hope), candy, calendar, crumb tray, teapot, gong, fern dish, vases—and money.

At first, meetings were held in Miss Sharp’s home. The first house, purchased in 1900, was at 903 West California, Urbana. A 1902 move was made to 404 East John Street, Champaign. Meals could be served there, and in 1905, an addition was built to accommodate 18 girls.
The next few years saw a series of Kappa houses as the number of actives grew. Records of 1913 show how each girl earned $10 for the newest house by making curtains, canning fruit, ‘hiring out to family,” and “calling on Methodist girls.”

Two other moves were made before the chapter made its home at 1102 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, February 1928. After remodeling and additions, the house accommodated 63. When parking problems became acute, a drive was cut, and in 1973 bicycle racks were built.

==HEADLINES and Other Notes:==

1929:

KAPPAS BLOWN OUT OF HOUSE DURING BLIZZARD; Defective gasket on furnace causes explosion … SCARLET FEVER EPIDEMIC BEGINS WITH A KAPPA; Valentine’s Day celebrated in quarantine; all Kappas receive candy … KAPPAS BUY VICTROLA … SCHOLARSHIP JUMPS TO THIRD … CHAPTER HISTORY PLANNED

'''The 1930s:'''

KAPPA BOILER BURSTS … MOTHERS CLUB FORMED … HOLLY WREATH SALE BUYS LINEN NAPKINS … ALUMNAE GIVE SILVER PITCHER FOR NAMES OF GIRLS WITH MOST IMPROVED SCHOLARSHIP … Margaret Carnahan Maxwell wrote that she had been married in a small London chapel build for Anne Boleyn by Henry VIII (1937) … Lorama Wiese (Boggs) left for Hollywood after a scout had seen her in a University of Illinois production … The chapter library was started with donations, showers, alumna help … Radio tea dances were popular .. The spring dinner dance was BIG.

'''The 1940s:'''

SON BORN TO LORAMA WIESE BOGGS, Mishawaka, Indiana, … PAINTING BY MIRIAM KNOWLTON CORRIE ACCEPTED FOR ALL ILLINOIS SOCIETY OF FINE ARTS … SADIE HAWKINS DAY BECOMES “ANNUAL TRADITION FOR A TIME” … WARTIME SHORTAGES … BASKETS FILLED FOR NEEDY FAMILIES … RAG DOLLS MADE FOR YWCA DOLL SHOW; Kappas win Doll Show with Mrs. O’Leary, stable boy, and cow just before the Chicago fire … BETTIE TEETOR (Audron) FIRST BETA LAMBDA TO PRESENT THESIS BEFORE ILLINOIS ACADEMY OF SCIENCE … CHAPTER HOUSE SCENE OF WEDDING; Susan Boggs to lt. Robert Miller (1942)

Homecoming, November 1, 1941, featured dedication of new student union (Homecoming activities had origin at the University of Illinois) … Note from frustrated male who couldn’t reach his date by phone: “Please make your conversations shorter (to be read in a meeting)” … Live music a war casualty; radio-victrola used instead … Red Cross and USO popular with volunteers … First aid widely taught and practiced … The chapter newsletter was printed on newsprint due to paper shortage

From the Illio (1945) “Ever since the establishment in 1899, Beta Lambda chapter … has remained active … KKG has retained an outstanding position on the campus for 45 years!”
April 1945 saw a story in The Key about Eleanor Taylor Moore, her photography, her poetry, and a children’s book in preparation … Report on scholarship was not encouraging: pledges not enthusiastic about studying … Beta Lambda was placed on social probation; rushing allowed but no male-attended functions … House Board reorganized; became Beta Lambda House and Advisory Board (1946)

Announcements: No dates in house before 4 p.m. … Girls are not to carry on conversations from the upstairs with boys who are downstairs … Quiet hours start when the sandwich man comes … No smoking in either formal or informal chapter meetings … Dress for dinner Wednesdays …
JUIN WHIPPLE (Foresman) GIVEN WARNER BROTHERS CONTRACT; She was Miss Ohio State” for the track meet … MANY VETERANS BACK ON CAMPUS (1948) … “BETA LAMBDA’S GOLDEN YEARS”; Fiftieth anniversary marked by two-day reunion … CHAPTER RECEIVES SCHOLARSHIP IMPROVEMENT AWARD AT SUN VALLEY CONVENTION (1948)

==The 1950s:==

SCHOLARSHIP HONORS EARNED: First place over 27 other chapters on campus; 3.916 on a 5. system … DADS CONTRIBUTE TO UNFURNISHED DINING ROOM … MANY OUTSTANDING GIRLS HONORED IN THE 1950s …
HIGHEST SCHOLARSHIP; Chapter honored at University of Illinois Panhellenic Council dessert (1958) … ONLY LIVING CHARTER MEMBER, LUCY WILLCOX WALLACE, PRESENTS PLAQUE IN M EMORY OF KATHARINE SHARP (1959); The pledge pin of Maude Straight (Carman), first Beta Lambda pledge, had been designed by Miss Sharp and the design adopted by the Fraternity; plaque to be hung in room furnished by chapter in Miss Sharp’s memory)

==The 1960s:==

BETH DOHME (Wallin) NAMED OUTSTANDING GRADUATE IN HOME ECONOMICS, 1961 (Later she wrote weekly articles, had TV shows, served on Massachusetts State Advisory Board on Home Economics, was instructor at the University of Michigan. She and her husband were among 38 lost in a crash in the Pacific, 1969. Her picture hangs in the chapter house [She had been a pledge adviser]. A Memorial in her name for outstanding pledge was established.) … DIFFICULTIES WITHIN FRATERNITY SYSTEM REFLECT NATIONAL TREND; Many houses decrease in membership … BETA LAMBDA (nearly always) HAS FULL HOUSE … GRADUATE COUNSELOR, MARY DAILEY (Metzger), SYRACUSE, ARRIVES FALL, 1961

Kappas began unique honorary, “The Squatty Bodies”—membership based on peculiarities of bone structure (1962) … Beta Lambda established a new memorial scholarship award—Mary Ann Clark Dazey Award for greatest scholastic improvement in sophomore year … Broad scholarship program at Beta Lambda; top scholarship rewarded by $100 prize.

BETA LAMBDA CHAPTER HOST TO EPSILON PROVINCE CONVENTION (1963) … JUDY SCHLIEPER (Bower) MISS ILLINOIS AT ATLANTIC CITY … LORANA WIESE BOGGS IS HONORED WITH FIRST PLACE EDITORIAL AWARD FOR WEEKLY NEWSPAPER, The Country Cousin

1963 first year of deferred rush … A cultural program (1964) placed emphasis on current events … There were talks on religious beliefs, Fraternity goals, etiquette … Emma Rhoads Nickoley presented rare copper vase to chapter. Initiated in 1899, she had been the only woman on the American University, Beirut, faculty, and general secretary to the Beirut YWCA. (Died 1972) … Kappa and Phi Kappa Psi volunteered at Champaign County Nursing Home; waxed floors, refinished dresser drawers in spring clean-up

TWO FIRE ENGINES RUSH TO KAPPA HOUSE, FIREMEN BREAK DOWN KITCHEN DOOR, OPEN OVEN: “Somebody burned the supper!” (1966) … ADVISOROY BOARD IS AWARDED FOR EXCELLENCE AT CONVENTION (1968) … CRIES OF ANGUISH HEARD FOR MILES: Mix-up in processing affects 280 rushees later notified they had been invited by mistake. (1969)

==The 1970s:==

HOMECOMING NOT QUITE … HOOPLA (1970): “Five months ago the campus was surrounded by the National Guard and state police. Students were marching against the Cambodian involvement, Illiac, Kent State, and the death of Edgar Foults. Many of those same students are now busy constructing house decorations and preparing for the return of alumni … President of KKG sorority, a varsity cheerleader, said, “I think if something is fun it is not always nice to analyze its relevance.” …
By 1970 each girl had her own phone number (Champaign-Urbana is one of the four communities in the U.S. having more telephones than people) … By 1972 each girl had her own door key … There is 24-hour university visitation and relaxation of alcohol regulations … Dress for dinner may mean slacks but not blue jeans with holes or patches … No more closet space needed for petticoats and formals and trunks for off-season clothing, but still there are space problems … The dorm remains cold, but there is now a sun deck and TV in the rec room … Men are allowed in the public portions of the house from 11 a.m. to 6 a.m.

BETA LAMBDA KKG CENTENNIAL HELD AT CHAMPAIGN COUNTRY CLUB … KAPPA PICKERS ENTERTAIN AT MANY SPECIAL EVENTS … ANONYMOUS MALE CALLER PHONES WITH BOMB THREAT: Police find nothing (1971) …
In the early years, the library science school played a big part. By 1970, there wasn’t one student in the library school … The date of Beta Lambda founding coincides with the date of required physical education for all female students … Women, admitted to Illinois in 1870, were offered calisthenics by 1874, and played basketball nine years before the men did …
PLEDGES, ACTIVES, ALUMNAE TAKE PART IN ROSE MCGILL SHARING PROGRAM (1973) … PARTICIPATION BY 1,100 GIRLS IN 1972 RUSH WITH 480 PLEDGING … ILLINOIS HAS ONE OF THE LARGEST AND STRONGEST GREEK SYSTEMS IN THE COUNTRY

There have been Beta Lambdas from many backgrounds. The university is large; traditions begin and die out and are sometimes revived, but precious to every chapter generation are the memories shared. Some voices will echo, some of the same thoughts return, as songs are sung and ritual words spoken. Often events recorded are not events remembered. There is hope for the future, based on the past, and the present can be seen more clearly now for having had to look back.
---------------------------------
The previous information was excerpted from The History of Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity, 1870-1976. The information that follows has been gleaned from available resources including Chapter History Reports, chapter meeting minutes, letters and comments from chapter members and alumnae, the Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity Archives, and The Key. Each chapter is expected to update its history record annually. Contact Fraternity Headquarters at kkghq@kkg.org with questions.
--------------------------------

==Highlights of the late 1970s:==

Bicycles had a place on college campuses from coast to coast, but a place for on-campus bicycles proved to be problematic at the U of I in the 70s when it came to parking them, protecting them, and vacation storage. Sorority house lounges and formerly gracious entrance halls became cycle parking areas. The University offered an indoor tennis court for bike storage with guaranteed protection from theft and damage during the Christmas holidays.

The pledge class of 1976 was made up of 23 girls. One of the girls broke her pledge shortly after bid night. The remaining 22 would go on to participate in four fantastic years as Kappa sisters. Rush was a four round rush at Illinois. One round was a Wizard of Oz theme. Kappa Pickers performed at two of the other rounds.

On bid night the girls met at the house to meet their new sisters, both pledge and active then went off to visit a half dozen fraternities to have them meet the new pledges. During this time the legal drinking age in thirty states including Illinois had been lowered from 21 to 18 allowing the girls to head off to campus bars for further celebration. On a national level it was argued at the time that if young people were required to fight and die in the Vietnam War then they should be allowed the privilege of drinking alcohol. This generation exercised previously unheard of clout and political muscle, and through years of protest and many valid arguments this generation of youth gained back some lost liberty.

The mid-seventies were also the Age of Disco which found its way from the urban environment of Chicago down I-55, the state highway, to the cornfields in the middle of the state. By December, 1977, the film Saturday Night Fever had been released. The film was marketed specifically to broaden disco's popularity beyond its primarily homosexual, black, and Latin audience. It was a huge success and its soundtrack became one of the best-selling albums of all time. Back in Urbana that fever took over Dooley’s - one of the main Greek bars transforming it into a glittery nightclub complete with mirrored glass ball.

Beta Lambda’s house underwent a major decorative refresh in the late seventies. The older pale greens and muted shades of a previous time were replaced by a pretty peach and black Asian inspired design. The family or “gathering” room was comfy couches and shades of Kappa blue. The girls were very excited by the makeover.

Some of the traditions the girls of Beta Lambda passed down, were Inspiration Week, which took place the week before initiation. Pledge moms spent the week bonding with their pledge daughters by doing nice things, continuing traditions and rituals, including candlelight serenades and generally welcoming the new members into the house.

The chapter invited alumnae over during homecoming weekend to improve relationships.
Parents were welcomed to the house with special celebrations. Dad’s weekend was held each fall and the girls took great care planning activities for both that weekend and Mom’s weekend in the spring.

The chapter had a number of actives who were selected as fraternity sweethearts. Members of the chapter were part of the cheerleading squad and the Illiniettes dance team. A number of girls were also gymnasts. During football season, the Kappas sat together with a fraternity in the football block and enjoy tailgating parties.

The chapter held an annual square dance at a local barn. An open truck decorated with hay was hired for the evening to transport the Kappas and pick up all the dates for the event.
Meals at the house were a major daily event with the girls sitting down to a formal dinner each evening after singing grace. The women and on occasion, their guests, were served by student waiters. The boys who bused the tables and washed the dishes were compensated by receiving free meals. A few love matches developed between these fine waiters and the actives.

During this time there were approximately 80 girls living in the house. As a result, a cold air dorm which slept about 40 girls existed. The girls instituted a system of “wakes” in which one would quietly wake up another sister based on the information she provided about her next day classes. This eliminated the need for 40 alarm clocks ringing in the dorm.
Love was always in the air at Beta Lambda and the chapter held special ceremonies when someone received a lavaliere, was pinned, or engaged. This provided the chapter with much excitement.
Fraternities serenaded the sororities. It was always a welcomed sight to see a group of handsome young men dressed up singing their hearts out to the women of the chapter.
Overall, the Kappas were a strong chapter, not necessarily the beauty queens, jocks or mean girls, but definitely your nice girl next door types.

Scholastic Honoraries: Phi Upsilon Omicron (home economics) 1974; Alpha Lambda Delta (1974 & 76); Phi Kappa Phi (1974, 75 & 76); Mortar Board (1974-1975); Phi Beta Kappa 1976; Sigma Phi Epsilon (speech-communications), Psi Chi (psychology).

1975 Cincinnati Award; Atius (sophomore women’s honorary), Torch (junior women’s honorary), Graduate fellowship; James Scholar; Dean’s List; Rush Committee; Bulletin Boards Chairman; Hinsdale Illinois Award; Mortar Board and Shorter Board (senior women’s honoraries); another was one of 10 finalists for the 1975 College All-Star Queen and served on the Panhellenic Council. The women won a myriad of Academic Awards. In 1975 Nancy Snowden was inducted into the Mortar Board-- a national college honor society for seniors recognizing scholarship, leadership and service. Her excellence inspired 13 women to be recognized for outstanding academic achievement the following year.

Christmas 1975 paired Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity with the Beta Lambdas for a party benefitting underprivileged children in Champaign-Urbana. Highlights included the appearance of Santa Claus and the presentation of the 12 days of Christmas.

Beta Lambda served as hostesses for 55 Kappas at the Epsilon Province meeting held April 11-13, 1975. Highlights included a tour of the Krannett Center for the Performing Arts and the Krannert Art Center. A candlelight banquet honored Mrs. Lester Corrie, a 65-year member of Beta Lambda and honorary chairman for province meeting. The Mabel McCoy Award for close relationship between alumnae and actives was presented to Beta Lambda chapter.

Julie Spitz was a busy Kappa during her undergrad days at Illinois. She was the Illinois Dads’ Association Certificate of Merit winner, served on the Illini Union Student Activity Program Board, was a staff member of the University’s summer advance enrollment program, a student intern at Assembly Hall, on the University Host and Hostess program, selected for the Shorter Board (senior women’s honorary), on the 1973 Homecoming Court, was a junior manager of the Star Course and selected to Atius (sophomore honorary).

The Illini Kappas were a group devoted to improving the community. In 1976 the philanthropy-conscious Kappas held a Christmas Party for underprivileged children in the Champaign-Urbana area. They gave these children a wonderful Christmas that otherwise would have been impossible.
In 1977, a variety of awards were received by the chapter including Achievement Awards and Panhellenic Borelli Awards. The following year Susan Snowden was recognized for co-managing the Star Course, a student run concert promoting unity and organization on the Illinois campus. There were also eight women applauded for academic excellence and given the Scholastic Honorary Award. The Kappas were intelligent and talented and an asset to the Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity.

This charitable spirit continued through 1979 when the Kappas did an “Egg Begg” to collect food and other donations for needy families in the region. The community was very thankful for their contributions. They also raised $1,600 for the Rose McGill Fund and the Developmental Services Center to combat Muscular Dystrophy. These women also raised and donated $518.34 to a Student Aid Fund. The members were not only a fun group of women, but also a group of women disposed to helping those around them that were in need.

During the late 70’s, the chapter women were very involved in the Greek life on campus. In 1979 the girls teamed with Delta Chi to win the Pajama Race hosted by Kappa Sigma. Their intramural teams were spectacular, winning a myriad of titles. The most successful teams were the volleyball, track and cross country teams, though the girls also participated in football and baseball leagues. Betty Oberle was the top runner on a top state team in cross country and she led the pack of athletic Kappas.

Outside of the Greek arena, the girls were also involved with Illini athletics. Including a number of participants in the Illinites - the Illini competitive dance team. Sarah Shepard and Julie Webster were star competitors on the Illinois gymnastics team that took second place in the Big Ten. The women also won the Best Overall Homecoming trophy in 1979, celebrating their school spirit. Overall the Kappas were an active and fun bunch that enjoyed being involved on campus.

==Highlights of the 1980s==

Beta Lambda hostessed the 1985 Epsilon Province Meeting on April 12-14, 1985.
The U.S. National Minimum Drinking Age Act of 1984 was passed by Congress. This bill required “all States to raise their minimum drinking age to 21 within two years or lose a portion of their Federal-aid highway funds; and encourage States, through incentive grants programs, to pass mandatory sentencing laws to combat drunk driving.” (Thomas Senate Record Vote Analysis) The portion of the Federal-aid highway funds that would be lost if the state didn’t comply amounted to five- percent in the third year and 10-percent in the fourth year.

The summer of 1986 was full of pride for the chapter when Leslie Barnes, chapter President and Liz Warner, First Vice-President attended the Fraternity Convention and received the Scholarship Award on behalf of the chapter. Sherri Fontanta, Marshal and a Beta Lambda Picker, had the privilege to sing with the Convention Choir.

February 7, 1987, the chapter initiated 52 girls. The following weekend the chapter held its Valentine’s formal. A reception was held in the chapter house. The women enjoyed dressing up. In March the initiates held their pledge dance with the theme of Kamp Kappa. The member’s were invited to two additional dances with other sororities: Kite and Key, and Miami Triad. The girls had a wonderful time getting to know the members of the other chapters.

On Mom’s Day the chapter held their first Mom’s Day Auction. The event raised $2,000 that went towards redecorating the house. The chapter also participated in the final competition of the Atius-Saechem Mom’s Day Sing. The event was a variety show held during Mom’s weekend each year. Sororities and fraternities were paired, prepared a short musical, and tried out for the show. The event sponsors were Atius (a sophomore honorary) and Sachem (a junior honorary).

At the Annual Borelli Awards during the Spring of 1987, Leslie Barnes was honored with third place for Outstanding President. The Borelli Awards were sponored by Panhellenic Council and the Borelli Family. The awards are given to chapters in recognition of their accomplishments during the year.

Beta Lambda received three awards at the Epsilon Province Convention: Outstanding Panhellenic Relations Award, Pledge Program Improvement Award and Overall Achievement Award.
Due to the achievements and number of awards presented to the chapter, Beta Lambda received the “Essence of Excellence” at the University of Illinois.

On October 14, the chapter welcomed the President of Kappa Kappa Gamma, Marian Klingbeil Williams, Missouri, to join them as they celebrated Founders Day 1987. The evening began with punch and coffee while actives provided musical entertainment including piano music and traditional Beta Lambda songs sung by the Pickers. During dinner, local alums and members of the chapter got acquainted with one another. After dinner, the Friendship Key, an award given to one of the active members of the chapter each semester was awarded to Erin Schlosser. The director of the local alumna group spoke at the banquet and introduced the guest of honor – Marian Williams.

The following day, Marian Williams visited the chapter house to have coffee and casually visit with the girls. Williams shared her ‘Kappa Wisdom’ along with many funny stories. A wonderful morning was had by all.

Some of the girls volunteered their time to be coaches for the area Special Olympics proving to be a very satisfying and rewarding experience for all. The entire chapter participated in the Order of Omega’s campus clean-up.

Through both semesters, many girls were involved in the Student Alumni Association. An active was in charge of the campus Homecoming Week. Several girls participated in the Student Government Association. Two actives were elected officers of the campus Panhellenic Council. Others participated on Panhellenic committees as well as Junior Panhellenic.

Two actives participated on the Varsity Track team, four were cheerleaders (including the captain of the squad), and three were Illiniettes. In intramural football, the Beta Lambda team made it to the playoffs. The entire chapter was very proud of these sisters.

At one time or another, every Kappa has been a sweetheart in her own way. With their smiles and helping hearts, the sweetheart atmosphere has always apparent at Beta Lambda. During the semester that sweetheart feeling was recognized by the men of Sigma Chi, Phi Kappa Psi and Acacia. In February Jacqui Marchese was crowned the Sweetheart of Sigma Chi during their formal held in St. Louis. In March, Phi Kappa Psi named Amy Lieberman their sweetheart during the annual Penthouse Party. In April, Amy Coan was given the title of Acacia Sweetheart during their formal held in Chicago. Many of the women bonded while rooming together in the Kappa annex during their junior and senior years.

==Highlights of the 1990s==

The Beta Lambda Chapter was one year away from celebrating its Centennial anniversary. The women were proud to uphold the same traditions and standards instituted by previous sisters nearly 100 years before them.

Renovations were made to the Lincoln Avenue home and the campus of the campus had changed with the years but the character of the women of Beta Lambda had held fast. The chapter remained one of the three largest women’s fraternities on the campus and boasted the addition of an exceptional group of 45 new members in January, 1998. These women added energy and enthusiasm to the chapter bringing with them a pool of talent and motivation to both Kappa and the university community.

Along with maintaining a grade point average both the all-women’s and all-sorority averages (Kappa achieved sixth out of 18 Panhellenic sororities), Beta Lambda members found time to take advantage of opportunities on the Champaign-Urbana campus. At the annual scholarship dinner held on March 9, 1998, women were recognized for their scholastic achievements and a new weekly incentive program was introduced. At each weekly chapter meeting, a clipboard was passed. Kappas earning an “A” on a test or paper were allowed to place her name on the board. At the end of the meeting, a name was drawn and that person was awarded a gift certificate. Highly successful, the program would be continued.

A new member scholarship program had been introduced during the fall semester requiring each member to meet at the library or house for two to three hours a week on Tuesday or Wednesday evenings. This gave new members a chance to get to know one another and help each other with their new schedules.

Beta Lambdas reached out to the Panhellenic community during the year. Beginning with the fall of 1998, the chapter was represented on the Panhellenic Judicial Board, Multicultural Committee, and the task force dealing with the new Greek risk management program working in conjunction with the Interfraternity Council and local city government and the Shi-Ai inter-sorority relations organization. Individual members continued to organize both Greek Week and Panhellenic Pride Week.

Philanthropically, the Beta Lambdas participated and supported more than a dozen different endeavors sponsored by a variety of organizations, fraternities and sororities on campus while sponsoring their own Kappatat for Humanity. Kappatat was a men’s volleyball tournament organized and executed by Beta Lambda, with profits benefitting Habitat for Humanity.

The chapter assisted many other causes including Multiple Sclerosis, a campus suicide hotline, Easter Seals, abused children, a rape crisis center and the local Boys and Girls Clubs.
The year was a positive one for the chapter. Many of the ideas and work outlined in the 1997-1998 school year paid off in the fall of 1998 when the chapter accommodated the Panhellenic no frills rush policy. The register and budget systems implemented in the new computer program, designed by the Fraternity and the entire chapter, reaped the benefits of the innovative new member program. Working together with local alumnae and Fraternity liaisons, the women worked to make the current chapter exceptional.

The chapter got organized in 1998. Two special visits to the chapter were made by traveling consultants during the year enabling the chapter to facilitate the no frills rush and recruiting a spectacular new member class. Rush work week was held from August 17-21, 1998. Once the university-wide rush began on August 28, the chapter exhibited a fine performance, which was evident by the outstanding new member class. Rounds included Sweet Home Kappa Gamma when the girls decorated the chapter house in a down home country style. Complete with blue and green gingham bows, daises and white picket fences, the success of these parties was recorded as phenomenal as Kappa received 97 percent return rate, one of the highest on the campus.
The last round of parties was Kappa Traditions which impressed upon the rushes that they were not joining a four-year sorority, but a near 100 year tradition. For these parties the women brought out the archives for the chapter.

Bid night was held on October 3. A circus theme with hired clowns, jugglers and sword throwers was a great kickoff party for the new members.The Fraternity changed the pledge period for all Kappa chapters. It reduced it to a new six-week new member program before the new members were initiated. The program placed greater emphasis on academic excellence during membership selection, a redefinition of the term pledge to new member, an all-inclusive educational program in which the entire chapter participated to teach the new members and the fall initiation. Perhaps one of the most rewarding weekends of new membership was walkout. This year the walkout was held at a senior’s home in Decatur. Throughout the weekend, new members bonded not only as a class but with graduating seniors who shared many memories of their active days. Initiation week would be another time of excitement for the chapter women of as the entire class of new members was successfully initiated.

On September 25 the Kappas held a Barndance at Farm Lake with the women hosting a hoedown complete with a bonfire, hayrides, a DJ and everyone dressed in overalls. The members participated in a murder mystery exchange with Alpha Epsilon Pi on October 29 held at the mystery theater. The girls held a Second City exchange with Sigma Chi on November 5. November 20 was the night of the semiformal event held at the University Inn.

Each member of the chapter was part of a committee headed by a chapter officer. These committees were vital to the smooth and successful operation of this active group of young women. The Vice President of Organization for the chapter created a master calendar for the 1998-1999 school year listing all activities in which the members participated. These ranged from chapter meetings to inspirational activities to the Spring formal.

An email list was compiled of each active and newly pledged member of the chapter which provided a means of notifying every one of upcoming events in a quick and up-to-the-minute way.
A December Leadership Training Workshop was held to provide the next set of chapter officers with the tools they would need to manage the chapter in the coming year. During the day-long retreat, outgoing leaders passed on knowledge and inspiration to the newly elected officers. This retreat took place after the installation of the new officers at the home of a Champaign alumna.

The 1999 calendar year represented one of great growth and change for the women of Beta Lambda. After the induction of the new member class, the girls were prepared to take on previously encountered obstacles, become more involved in the business of the chapter and participate in the campus Panhellenic community.

Academics and campus involvement took the top of the list for the girls ranking Beta Lambda 3rd highest grade point average for all sororities, including many 4.0’s. Members made special efforts to stick together and work through tough classes such as Statistics and Accounting.
As proclaimed during Recruitment events Kappa’s are “Women of Diversity.” The girls proved this as they participated in activities throughout campus.

They hosted a Centennial celebration and were excited to interact with many alumnae during dinner, campus and house tours, and flip through old chapter scrapbooks. Along with change came struggles. Beta Lambda received a letter of concern from the Fraternity. A graduate consultant from the Fraternity moved in the following semester to help sort out financial issues and other problems. The girls were eager to pull together and improve. The traveling consultant visited the chapter twice during the school year and offered plenty of suggestions for improvement. Holding lengthy meetings with the officers and chapter, the consultant was able to teach the women the true meaning of rituals and importance of the standing rules. After performing ritual ceremonies and formal chapter time after time, the chapter made strong headway. A new group of officers were elected and the consultant was back for her second visit, working with them at a leadership conference which detailed the positions and the work to be done. Beta Lambda was back stronger than ever.

The chapter philanthropy Kappatat was a huge success for the girls. Hosting the 4- on- 4 volleyball tournament for all of the fraternities on campus. All proceeds went to benefit Habitat for Humanity.

During Recruitment, the girls decorated bookmarks that were then placed in donated books and sent to local schools for underprivileged children. Other Beta Lambda volunteer activities included Volunteer Illinois Projects, Crisis Nursery and Head Start. Sigma Chi held their annual blood drive and many Kappas were on hand to lend assistance to the cause.

The chapter was voted Most Creative for the Atius competition. Candle passing was a long tradition at the house and on a very happy note one of the actives announced her engagement with the ceremony.

==A New Millennium -- Highlights of 2000-2010==

At both Initiation brunch and on Mother's Weekend the chapter proudly displayed some of their archives such as the yearly scrapbook and awards earned throughout the years.
During this past year there were stand out events that brought the chapter great pride. The Beta Lambda house was listed on the National Historical Landmark. A new house mom was hired and was adored by all. The former chapter President Stephanie Halvorsen won 2nd place as the Greek Woman of the Year. Beta Lambda won 2nd place for Excellence in External Operations. Fall Recruitment was totally revamped from previous years. It went smoothly, and the percentages were superb.

At a huge campus with great diversity, it is sometimes hard to find a niche, but the girls of the chapter have gone above and beyond to be a part of this campus. The girls are involved in a broad range of activities from intramurals, to volunteering and tutoring, to clubs in their majors, to leadership positions. Sports are a huge aspect of this campus, and the girls are in the Orange Crush for basketball and the Illini Pride for football.

Besides being involved in extracurricular, the members were very involved in the chapter. At Illinois, the chapter continues to hold its annual 4-on-4 volleyball tournament, Kappatat, to raise money for Habitat for Humanity. During this year they began building a house with other area sororities and fraternities. To obtain more money for this, many members volunteered at football games and their pay went to help purchase the building supplies. They also participated in a wide variety of philanthropic events held by other sororities and fraternities such as Sigma Chi Derby Days and Alpha Gamma Delta Water Wars. Sisterhood was also very important to the chapter and during the year they organized game night, had a beauty night, and went to an apple orchard.

The challenges were typical of a chapter that was extremely crowded due to a huge new member class. Girls were 3-4 per room, but the atmosphere always remained positive. Problems and issues were kept to a minimum, and the girls handled the situation in a commendable manner. The previous year the chapter experienced problems with attendance at chapter meetings, sisterhoods, and other such events. A new point system was implemented resulting in growing attendance at all events.

During initiation dinner and Mom's Weekend, the chapter continued the tradition of displaying some of its archives. These included the scrapbooks and awards that received through the years.
The past year had been an eventful one. Some of their proudest moments included achieving the Epsilon Province’s Outstanding Achievement in Unity, Loyalty, and Gracious Living for 2003-2005; Honorable Mention in Chapter History and Ritual for 2003-2005; Honorable Mention in New Member Programming for 2003-2005. A major renovation to the house patio including changing the ground area from concrete to decorative stone and putting up a new awning. It was a definite improvement.

Recruitment in the fall went very well, and the chapter greatly improved the Initiation rate of new members from the previous year as only one girl dropped out.
During the year many of girls made the Dean's List. A senior member received the Howard Hughes Undergraduate Research Award.

Chapter members began getting involved in the Big Brother Big Sister program, to which many girls showed great interest. The Beta Lambda intramural soccer team won the final championship game. The Illinois campus at offered a wide range of activities and clubs to get involved in, and the chapter members took full advantage of those opportunities. The women were very active in the diverse areas of interest ranging from academic clubs to intramural sports. A lot of girls made a point to get out and attend basketball and football games to support university’s teams. Many girls also were involved in tutoring and volunteering, as well as clubs in their majors and leadership positions.

The girls of the chapter were always willing to support each other as well as the chapter. The participation at the annual philanthropy Kappatat was very good this year. The girls also had two days of successful fundraising for Habitat for Humanity by hosting a 4-on-4 men's volleyball tournament. The members also participated in other Greek houses philanthropies. There was great involvement in Sigma Chi's Derby Days, and the chapter placed third in their overall competition. The girls participated in Delta Gamma's Anchor Splash, Alpha Omicron Pi's Mud Olympics, and Alpha Gamma Delta's Water Wars. The Beta Lambda sisterhood events went extremely well. Attendance was outstanding at the annual Curtis Apple Orchard Day, and at the chapter Mary Kay Beauty Night.

Chapter housekeeping challenges remained an issue. The house manager implemented a system of assigning four or five women a week to concentrate on taking out the trash and making sure the house stayed presentable. The system began to work, making living in the crowded house less frustrating. Attendance at chapter and sisterhood events proved to be another problem for the chapter, but by using a point system and reminding the girls the importance of attendance, the problem improved.

Beta Lambda - Campus Activities/ Involvement in 2005 included: Student Dietetic Association, Referee for U of I Intramural Soccer, Kappa Intramural soccer team, Illinois Competitive Cheerleading, Big Brother/Big Sisters, Order of Omega, Greek Honorary Society, Panhellenic Recruitment Treasurer, Project Discovery Accounting Society, Vis-à-vis, Women in Aerospace Engineering Council Representative, James Scholar, Head Guard: Campus Recreation, Campus Crusade for Christ, Big Brother Big Sister, Education Fraternity, American Advertising Federation, Phi Eta Sigma, Dean’s List, Greek Intervarsity, Psi Chi, Faith-In-Action, Student Nurses’ Association, Sigma Theta Tau, Illini Dance Team, Illinettes, Illini Varsity Cheerleading, Model United Nations, NSCS, Howard Hughes Undergraduate Research Fellowship Award, Tutor, Club Tennis, FHCE, MAMA Program, and Alpha Lambda Delta.

Nineteen members of the chapter earned 4.0 grade point averages during the Spring of 2006.
Archives were displayed during Homecoming weekend included the previous semester's scrapbook as well as older scrapbooks and other items, such as old newsletters, from the chapter archives. Also included were awards that the chapter had received throughout the past year. This display was displayed on a large table in the foyer of the chapter house. Homecoming weekend was chosen as the best time to present an archives display so that the many visiting alumnae would be able to view both new and old Kappa memorabilia.

One of the chapter's biggest achievements this past year was in the area of academic excellence. At the end of 2005, the chapter ranked 19th out of 23 chapters in G.P.A., but by the end of 2006 had moved up to 8th out of 23.

The chapter had a very successful Recruitment in 2006, with 58 bids offered to new members and 57 women initiated. The fact that almost all of the new members were initiated was credited to the strength of the chapter’s new member program.

Another area of pride during the year was Philanthropy. Beta Lambda’s annual volleyball philanthropy event for Habitat for Humanity, Kappatat, raised $1,800 and more than 30 different teams participated. The members participated in many other philanthropic events through other chapter houses on campus as well as through the Panhellenic Council. At the 2006 Greek Oscars, Beta Lambda received a second place award for scholarship as well as an award for outstanding fire safety. One of the members was also nominated for Greek Woman of the Year. 2006 also included many fun social events such as Barn Dance, Krush Party, Semi-Formal and Formal, and many exchanges with fraternities on campus. The girls enjoyed many sisterhood events including a movie night during the holiday season, a jewelry party and purse party at the chapter house, and Kappa Kristmas. The Kappa soccer team also won the intramural championship for the second year in a row.

The University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana was home to 30,909 undergraduate students. The campus had the largest Greek system in the nation. There were 63 fraternities and 36 sororities in total. 22% of the student population is involved in a fraternity or sorority. Of the 36 sororities on campus, 23 are members of Panhellenic Council and are composed of more than 2,900 women. The University offered hundreds of clubs and organizations, many in which Kappa women participated.

The chapter had 185 active members; during the fall semester and 57 new members were initiated.
The chapter grade point average was 3.38, ranking 8th out of the 23 chapters on campus.
Lisa Ellis was the new house director this school year.
The spring of 2006 had 52 women living in the house, and during the fall of 2006 there were 59 women living inside the chapter house.

Chapter members were active throughout campus in a wide variety of activities including Illini Cheerleading, LAS Student Senate, peer tutoring, Illini Dance Team and Illinettes Dance Team, several different Christian groups, several different pre-professional organizations and many different honorary and service fraternities. Many members were on the Dean's List, and several participated in the James Scholar Honors Program. Two members of the chapter served on the Panhellenic Council Executive Board.

During the past year, and specifically during the fall 2006 semester, the chapter experienced several challenges involving infractions of both Panhellenic and Fraternity Bylaws. Most of these challenges dealt with risk management issues. In order to overcome the problems of the past semesters, the 2006 and 2007 Chapter Councils created an action plan, to replace its previous focus letter, which outlined intended strategies for improving accountability, standards, risk management, sisterhood, and Panhellenic involvement. The Leadership Consultant was a very helpful resource in creating this action plan. The use of this plan throughout the next year would prove to be a vital tool to overcome challenges in these five areas. The incoming 2007 Chapter Council was fortunate to participate in a "Leadership Day" in December which provided the incoming officers with very helpful information on leadership, communication, teamwork, delegation, and motivation. The skills gained from this workshop helped the house leaders gain the confidence needed to continue to implement the action plan and help the chapter reach its goals. The women were most concerned with accountability. They felt enforcing attendance policies as well as other chapter bylaws and standing rules, would allow them to build a stronger, more cohesive chapter.

Members of the chapter happily gathered with students from Thomas Paine Elementary School to present 250 books in support of Reading is Fundamental.

Nineteen members of the chapter earned 4.0 grade point averages during the fall of 2006.
The women displayed Kappa scrapbooks on Mom’s Weekend. The material was presented in the family room showing the most recent scrapbook, award from Province Meeting, archived photos of Kappas and their moms as well as a Kappa History book from the archives. The second display took place during Homecoming weekend allowing visiting alumnae to view the memorabilia. This foyer table display was accompanied with a large poster showcasing photos from the semester that included Recruitment, as well as social, sisterhood and philanthropy events. The Province award and Kappa History book were also placed on display.

During the past calendar year, philanthropy had been a major success for the girls. At Kappatat, the annual 4-on-4 volleyball tournament, the women doubled the total money raised from 2006 for Habitat for Humanity collecting more than $3,000 during this year. This event was changed from a double elimination to a pool play which was more efficient and made 2007 the first year the tournament was held in only one day. The women also donated hundreds of books to local schools for Reading Is Fundamental, had numerous teams in Relay for Life, and placed 3rd in the Sig Ep Presents pageant philanthropy. the chapter was recognized as the Panhellenic chapter with the most service hours in fall of 2007 with 1,239.5 hours.

The chapter had another successful recruitment initiating more than quota. The chapter members kept up their grades and moved to rank 7th out of 23 chapters in grade point average. The chapter balanced studies with many fun social and sisterhood events in 2007 including Barndance, Semi-Formal, Formal, Krush Party, Pledge Dance, and a trip to the Reindeer Ranch corn maze, Curtis Apple Orchard, a movie night, purse party, Kappa Kristmas and many exchanges with fraternities on campus.

The University of Illinois had 30,895 undergraduate students and 42,000 total with graduate students. More than 6,600 undergraduates, or approximately 22% of the student population, were involved in the Greek system. There were 37 sororities and 60 fraternities, making the campus the largest Greek system in the country. The school year brought the addition of a new sorority, Alpha Xi Delta to campus. The campus had more than 1,000 registered student organizations offering a wide range of activities and clubs with which to get involved in and Kappas took advantage of the offerings.

During the fall, 49 new members were initiated making the chapter a total of 180 members. The chapter grade point average equaled 3.3788, ranking 7th out of 23 sororities. Many girls were on the Dean’s List and many were in the James Scholar Honors Program as well as part of honorary fraternities Phi Eta Sigma, Sigma Theta Tau, Alpha Lambda Delta, Psi Chi. One member served on the Panhellenic Council Executive Board as Vice President of Risk Management.

Members were very involved on campus including: Intramural soccer and softball, Club water polo, Club synchronized skating, Club basketball team, Illinois Varsity Cheerleading, Illini Dance Team, Illinettes, Orange Krush, Illini Pride, Greek Intervarsity and other Christian groups, American Advertising Federation, Student Dietetic Association, to name a few.
Many members held jobs, were tutors on campus as well as at elementary schools and volunteered for places like Crisis Care and Vis-à-vis.

One of the first challenges the chapter faced during this year was to work together to get off the old Focus Letter and adhere to the new action plan set by Chapter Council to help the chapter improve. Attendance remained a concern, especially for chapter meetings and other required events but the action plan helped solve this problem as well as the constant reminder of the points system. Another problematic issue was keeping the house, especially the bathrooms, clean on the weekends. The girls implemented a housework schedule to help and to solve the dirty dishes in the bathroom problem. The house leadership threatened to keep all food/dishes in the kitchen and not allow anything to be taken upstairs if changes were not made. The biggest challenge the chapter faced last year was getting enough girls to step up and take a leadership position for Chapter Council. It was assumed someone would step up and at first only 5 out of 23 active members ran for positions. The problem was compounded by the requirement that most positions required the leader to live in the house an extra semester and many girls had signed leases for apartments. The older girls who were currently on Chapter Council sat everyone down and gave a very persuasive speech reminding members they were the future of this chapter’s success. Many girls were motivated and gave up their apartments or decided to step up and fill the positions. Three actives studied abroad in Europe.

The chapter’s biggest improvements in 2008 were in the area of academics and Recruitment. The overall house grade point average increased, equaling a 3.3825 with was a high number of members with 4.0’s, and the chapter moved up in Greek grade point average rankings. The chapter achieved 10th ranking out of 25 sororities on campus.

The Recruitment process was extremely successful in 2008 with record high return rates at different invitations producing an initiation class more than quota. The social calendar was packed in 2008 and included events such as Kappa Krush, Semi-Formal, Formal and Pledge Dance. Beta Lambda also had numerous sisterhood events including movie nights and ice skating. Another major improvement during the year took place in philanthropy. On top of a successful 4-on-4 volleyball tournament and a spaghetti dinner to raise money for Habitat for Humanity, the girls extended their Reading is Fundamental Philanthropy Activities. In addition to collecting books for Thomas Paine school, several chapter members volunteered to read with students on a weekly basis.

The University of Illinois had 42,000 students, 30,895 of whom were in the undergraduate program. More than 6,000 undergraduates, or about 22% of the student population, were involved in the Greek system. The campus had the largest Greek system in the country, with 37 sororities, 25 of which are NPC affiliated and 60 fraternities. The campus had more than 1,000 registered student organizations, including various activities and clubs. Students typically come from 50 states and 100 nations.

The chapter initiated 45 members in the fall making Beta Lambda chapter a total of 172.
During the spring semester 49 girls lived in the house and 62 lived in during the fall.
Chapter members were very involved in a wide variety of campus organizations including intramural and club sports teams, dance troupes, Illinettes, spirit groups including Illini Pride and Orange Krush, Greek Intervarsity, and several religious organizations. On top of these activities, many members made the Dean’s List, participated in the James Scholar Program, and were members of honor fraternities.

Kappas volunteered and worked as tutors and at the local hospital. Chapter challenges included the common problem of all chapter council members being aware of and staying under budget. The Treasurer worked to remedy this by reminding officers of their budgets and cutting back on unnecessary costs. One of the main challenges faced this year by the chapter was continued participation of older members within the chapter. This absence was especially noticeable at chapter meetings. The President reminded junior and senior members that they set an example for new members and the importance of staying involved in the chapter to the end of their college career. Attendance improved but remained a work in progress.

To raise money for Habitat for Humanity of Illinois, the members coached and encouraged fraternity volleyball teams during Kappatat. The chapter had the biggest improvement in Recruitment. Beta Lambda initiated 50 girls in the fall, the largest group of new members since the fall of 2006. This group of girls includes a large number of sophomores as well as three exchange students from London, England.

Repeating past successes, philanthropy proved to be a major achievement for the girls. This was the 3rd year of hosting a Kappasta spaghetti dinner at the house to raise money to donate to the UII campus chapter of Habitat for Humanity. Kappatat, the annual 4-on-4 beach volleyball tournament was another great success in raising money for Habitat for Humanity. As the girls began in the previous year, several members of the chapter continued volunteering to read to students at the Thomas Paine School as part of the Reading is Fundamental Philanthropy.
The social calendar was once again packed with fun events such as a Kappa Karnival themed Pledge Dance, Barn Dance, Formal, Semi-Formal, and Impromptu. Aside from outside events there were many successful sisterhood events such as ice skating and pumpkin carving.

In the fall the chapter raised its grade point average to 3.4041 achieving 9th out of 25 sororities and placing the chapter above the average all-sorority grade point average of 3.3977. This was a major success for the girls. Academically, the chapter has consistently improved.
The University of Illinois had approximately 43,000 students, 31,540 were undergraduates. Of the undergraduates 21% of the students were involved in the Greek system on campus. The university continued to have the largest Greek system in the country with 37 sororities and 60 fraternities. There were also a large number of academic related fraternities for both males and females on campus. The campus remained highly diverse with students coming from all 50 states and over 100 countries.

Beta Lambda initiated 50 new members in the fall, providing the chapter with 200 members.
Many of the girls continued to be a part of the James Scholar Honors Program, were placed on the Dean's List, and become members of honorary fraternities such as Alpha Kappa Psi, Phi Eta Sigma, and Delta Sigma Pi.

The Kappas were involved in many clubs and activities including the Lacrosse team, Soccer Club, Illini Dance Team, Illinettes, Illini Pride, Business Council, The Society of Women in Business, Identity Irish Dance Troupe, Greek Intervarsity, and many more. The women of the chapter were also dedicated to helping the community; many took part by volunteering as tutors and worked in local hospitals.

The sorority faced many challenges over the year, with financial stability a major concern. It became apparent in past years that the Chapter Council members were not fully aware of their budgets and overspent their budgeted amount. The chapter had a tremendous Treasurer whose primary goal was educating new Chapter Council members of their budget and spending. By limiting the funds given to each Chapter Council member the Treasurer was able to get Beta Lambda financially on track again. Another continuous challenge remained getting junior and senior members to attend and participate in chapter and Kappa events. It was very difficult to get such a large membership to commit to traditional events. The President constantly reminded the girls how important it was for them to attend chapter meetings and chapter events to set an example for the new members. Attendance slowly improved, but not to the level the girls had hoped to achieve. This also created another challenge when it came to Beta Lambda’s participation at other sorority and fraternity philanthropies. The Philanthropy chair reminded everyone how important it was to be involved in the Greek community on campus. She also mentioned the effect this would have on Kappa events and set about campaigning to reverse the trend.

==Highlights of 2011-2019:==

(From chapter history reports, 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.)

==2012==

This past year the Beta Lambda chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma continued to grow in the area of philanthropy. In the fall we hosted our annual volleyball tournament and pasta dinner, the proceeds went the Habitat for Humanity Foundation. We also paricipated in a local house build. This coming spring break 24 members of our chapter are going on a Habitat for Humanity trip and will be building houses in several different states. Many members of the chapter go to Thomas Paine school and read to the students, which is one of the ways we participate in the Reading is Fundamental Philanthropy. The women of the Beta Lamda chapter not only participate in our own philanthropy but in other Franternity's and Sorority's philanthropies as well! In November of 2012 we intiated 47 wonderful women! We have had several sisterhood events this past year, such as a game night called "Kappa Kookies & Games", we went to the circus, wrote holiday cards to soldiers, made christmas cookies, had a funny photo booth night, and we made valentines for the patients at Carol Hospital. Our chapter has recently added committees to our chapter council. We believe having committees benefits the house as a whole by getting more active members involved!

The University of Illinois has about 43,000 students, 31,540 are undergraduates.
-Of the undergraduates, about 21% of the males and females are involved in the greek system.
-We have the largest greek system in the country with 36 sororities and 60 fraternities. We also have a large number of academic related fraternities for both male and females.
-We have a very diverse campus with students coming from all 50 states and over 100 countries.
-There are over 1,000 registered student organizations on campus, including various clubs and activities. Kappas are always very involved in what our great campus has to offer.

==Highlights of the 2020s:==
(From chapter history reports, 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.)

-----------------

'''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 a complete and accurate history of your chapter for future generations to enjoy!

Epsilon Sigma

2013-10-19T17:05:49Z

Desertdawg:

{{Infobox Fraternity
|Name= Epsilon Sigma
|GreekSymbol= EΣ
|Image= [[File:Epsilon_Sigma.jpg|200px]]
|Founded= {{start date and years ago|1976|10|23}}
|College= [http://www.virginia.edu/ University of Virginia]
|Location= Charlottesville, VA
|Homepage= [http://www.virginia.edu/fsl/isc/kappakappagamma.html Epsilon Sigma Homepage]
|Media= [http://wiki.kappakappagamma.org/index.php?title=Category:Epsilon_Sigma Media related to Epsilon Sigma Chapter]}}

'''University of Virginia, founded in 1825 in Charlottesville, Virginia'''

'''Epsilon Sigma founded October 23, 1976 with 43 charter members - 10 Charter Members'''

'''1,292 initiates (as of June 2013)'''

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'''Charter Members:''' Robbin Atkinson, Andrea Barton, Joann Barton, Sharon Biache, Mary Bodie, Elizabeth Bracken, Mary Brown, Carol Burins, Joanne Canoles, Kimberly Christy, Carol Close, Katherine Cole, Katherine Duguid, Julia Etheridge, Kathleen Fitzgerald, Sheryl Gibson, Charlyn Hall, Mary Holahan

'''Some of Epsilon Sigma’s Outstanding Alumnae''' (If you have chapter alumnae who have received recognition in any of these three categories, please list them with the date(s) of recognition.)

'''Fraternity Officers:'''

Elizabeth Meyer, Chapter Consultant 1978-1980; Talby Hardy (Brennan), Field Secretary 1980-1982

'''Fraternity Loyalty Award Recipient:'''

'''Fraternity Alumnae Achievement Award Recipients:''' Beth Meyer, 2014, landscape architecture, architectural history and historic preservation

'''Chapter Awards:'''

1980 - Cultural Program

'''Additional Outstanding Epsilon Sigma Alumnae'''

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==The University of Virginia==

Chartered in 1819 by the General Assembly under the sponsorship of Thomas Jefferson, the University of Virginia still bears the imprint of its founder. Jefferson designed the buildings and campus, gathered the faculty and shaped the organization. The university was the most liberal institution of learning of its time, with curriculum totally elective, no religious tests of practices, faculty all equals, and students under the honor system. Many of the ideas of administration and curriculum that dominate American universities today were anticipated by Jefferson.

The university opened to instruction in 1825, in the beautiful and traditional setting of Charlottesville with grounds occupying more than 1,500 acres of historical interest in Blue Ridge Mountain country. The Rotunda and its attached colonnades of student rooms interspersed with Federal style two-storied “pavilions” housing administrative officials front on the “lawn” and form the central focus of the campus. Small public gardens behind the residences, separated by serpentine brick walls and an outer row of student rooms on the “range” complete the setting.

==Installation of Epsilon Sigma Chapter==

Epsilon Sigma was installed on October 23, 1976, when 43 new members were initiated at the University of Virginia.

The installation headquarters for the weekend was the Boar’s Head Inn, Ednam Forest, Charlottesville, and it was a gracious old Virginia setting providing rooms and dining facilities. Friday evening service was held at the beautiful home of an alumna, with a large living room and double fireplaces. Following the service, the Charlottesville alumnae gave an informal reception serving coffee, punch and cookies to all attending (about 120). This was the first chance that many had to make friends with the new members and to meet the actives and alumnae attending and assisting with the weekend events.

The Westminister Presbyterian Church offered perfect accommodations on Saturday for Installation. Installing officers were Jean Hess Wells, Georgia, Fraternity President; Jane Lindsay Koke, Denison, Treasurer and Sally Moore Nitschke, Ohio State, Director of Membership.

The reception before Saturday evening’s banquet was held around an open fire at one end of the large banquet hall of Boar’s Head Inn, which easily accommodated the 158 guests attending. Flowers and candlelight gave a special atmosphere to the evening. Banquet chairman. Dale Brubeck, William & Mary, was a dynamic speaker for the evening; The William & Mary President offered a toast to the new chapter, and the Epsilon Sigma President responded. The President of the Charlottesville Alumnae greeted all with enthusiastic welcome. An award badge formerly belonging to an alumna was presented to the Fraternity President for presentation to the new chapter’s President.

A formal reception was held on a rainy Sunday afternoon at the old Alumni Hall on campus. With fire in the fireplace, the new Epsilon Sigmas and Fraternity officers met campus officials, Greek representatives, friends of the chapter, and many parents who had traveled from as far away as Connecticut to add their welcome to their daughter’s new chapter. Approximately 250 people attended. A model chapter meeting followed by a formal pledging ceremony for 10 new members completed the festivities.

Other notable Kappas attending this important weekend for Lambda Province included Fran Alexander, DePauw, former Fraternity President; former Province Directors Ann Harter, Syracuse; Jesse Kirk, North Dakota State; Ellen Lawther, Maryland; Louise Wise, Illinois; Martha Flatt, Cincinnati; Polly Beall, George Washington; Field Secretaries Mary Flo Squires (Ridley), SMU, and Jan Harenberg (Stockhoff), New Mexico; Editor of The Key, Diane Selby, Ohio State; and Director of Communication for Fraternity Headquarters, Jean Elin, Ohio State.

==Campus Life in the 1970s==

Student population at the time of Epsilon Sigma’s founding was more than 14,000 with teacher population around 1,500. Prior to 1970, female students were admitted only at the graduate and professional level. By 1974, 41 percent of the student population was female. These women were entering a strong fraternity system, with 35 chartered fraternities. As the enrollment of women increased, the desire among women to form their own Greek-letter groups grew. National Panhellenic Conference groups already on campus in 1976 included Zeta Tau Alpha, Delta Delta Delta, Gamma Phi Beta and Kappa Alpha Theta. Epsilon Sigma Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma was the fifth national women’s fraternity to be installed at the University of Virginia.

Sorority life was not, however, new to Epsilon Sigma. By the time of Installation, the members had already existed as a group for a year and a half. The university required that any sorority or fraternity must exist for a year as a local before it could petition a national. In April of 1975, seven young women had formed the local sorority Kappa Gamma, with the obvious intent of petitioning Kappa Kappa Gamma for a charter at the end of our year as a local.

During this year and a half, the Kappa Gammas set traditions, planned community service projects and joined in campus activities including a clothing drive for a mental hospital and participation in the first Sigma Chi Derby Days. The group participated strongly in the InterSorority Council, helping to coordinate and execute the first formal rush on campus. Kappa Gammas were on the university field hockey and women’s lacrosse teams, worked on both of the university newspapers, and, at the time of Installation, Kappa Gamma led the sorority powder-puff football league, holding the record for most points scored in a single game!

Until mid-October 1975, the local group concentrated its efforts on increasing membership. By that time, the number had increased to 19. At Christmas time, they held a formal sit-down dinner, which they prepared themselves. For many of the men there, it was the first sorority party they had ever attended, and most were genuinely impressed. This event became an annual tradition, although as they grew in number, they were no longer able to do the cooking themselves.

The Kappa Gammas also began several other traditions including the “Outstanding Kappa” award—a silver bowl that was given by the seven original founders of the local group as an installation gift. Another tradition is that each chapter President leaves something in the house after her term of office.

Installation week was more than just joining Kappa Kappa Gamma for these new members—it was the culmination of a year’s work and a year’s wait. Helping to introduce Epsilon Sigma to the Fraternity was William & Mary, the Big Sister Chapter. Other Kappas came from the following chapters: Maryland, North Carolina, George Washington, and Tennessee. The alumnae associations from Northern Virginia, Richmond, Roanoke, Baltimore, and Suburban Maryland were present as well. Each group gave a warm welcome and the love to the newest members of Kappa.

Kappa Kappa Gamma happily established Epsilon Sigma Chapter with a sense of historic celebration in the year of the American Bicentennial!

==Highlights of the 1980s==

Our greatest source of pride for Epsilon Sigma in 1985 was our involvement in the initiation of the charter members of Zeta Mu chapter at Virginia Tech. Almost half of our chapter became big sisters for the charter members. We are also proud of our campus and community activities and the fact that we had the second highest grade point average of the 16 sororities on campus. By the mid-80s we had 85 active sisters. Epsilon Sigma was one of three chapters receiving a Rehabilitation Grant from the Fraternity, which went to support the Charlottesville Rape Crisis Group.

We attended Province Meeting in Morgantown, WV in the spring of 1987 bringing home a revitalized knowledge of ritual and renewed interest in the national Fraternity. Some of our members attended the installation and initiation of the Zeta Omicron chapter at the University of Richmond, serving as big sisters to the charter members. At the Biennial Convention in Boca Raton, Florida, we received Honorable Mention in chapter finance and a silver Revere bowl in honor of the chapter with the best Cultural Program.

In support of new alcohol awareness programs, a new service at UVA was started in 1988 called “Sorority Formal Swap.” Two sororities are paired to work at each other's formal to insure there is no drinking and driving. It was a huge success.

We have members involved in many campus activities such as Honor Educators, Honor Advisers, University Guides, Madison House Volunteers, theater productions, newspaper staff, intramural sports and more. A challenge to increase participation was met with delegation, so everyone felt as though they had an important Kappa job, plus forming three teams, the owls, the keys, the fleur-di-lis getting points for your team each time you participated in a Kappa activity.

We participate Annual Phone-A-Thons making calls to alumni around the country to solicit donations for the University. We also presented our portion of a grant awarded by the Fraternity last spring following our proposal to benefit the Charlottesville Rape and Crisis Group.
We sponsor a needy child from Brazil by raising funds through a Balloon Day. We now have a wonderful new house mother and through her efforts and those of the chapter we won the ISC's Clean House of the Month Award. We achieved our goal of “Renewed Respect” working on ritual respect, established the thought of the week to increase respect among the sisters, and pairing new ideas and respect for the old ideas to achieve this goal.

In 1988-89 one of our members, who is also Inter Sorority Council President, was selected as the most outstanding Greek woman, a coveted award at UVA. We raised more than $1,000 for the American Cancer Society with a two-night fundraiser, Kappa for Cancer. We continue to work with the Barrett Day Care Center, a non-profit center for underprivileged children. Our lasagna dinner raised funds to continue to support our child in Brazil as well as the American Heart Association.

One of the most exciting things our chapter did as the decade comes to a close was the involvement in the initiation and installation of the charter members of Zeta Tau chapter at Washington and Lee. Our chapter was chosen to be their big sister chapter. In addition to becoming more involved in the community and campus life, we have become more involved with other sororities with exchange dinners and with fraternities with mixers, allowing us to get to know a lot of new people. We hosted a Mardi Gras dinner to raise funds for the child we sponsor through the Christian Children's Fund, held four parties at the Barrett Day Care Center. We also played bingo at a nursing home and painted cartoon characters on the walls of the Kluge Rehabilitation Center.

'''Housing:'''

The chapter house is located at 503 Rugby Road, nicknamed The Kappa Palace.

'''Philanthropy:'''

The Billy Hill Race, an annual relay race in Charlottesville to benefit the National Heart Association, a Yard Sale to benefit the Billy Hill Race, Annual Phone-a-Thons to raise funds for the University, sponsoring a foreign child, Kappa for Cancer fundraiser, and participating in other groups' philanthropies.

'''Chapter Convention Awards''':

1988: At the Biennial Convention in Boca Raton, Fla., we received honorable mention in Finance and won a silver Revere bowl in recognition for the best Cultural Program.

==Highlights of the 1990s==

The year 1990 began with the pledging of 36 new members and our involvement on campus grew every year. We are represented in all aspects of life at UVA; sports, Madison House, University Guides, Honor Advisers, Honor Educators, etc.

Our GPA increased from 3.2 in 1990 to 3.27 in 1991, with more than one third of our girls with a GPA of 3.4 or above. We regularly further the Greek system interaction by participating in exchange dinners with other sororities. At Convention in 1994 we received first place for our Cultural Program, and honorable mention for Excellence and Membership Selection.

At Convention is Dallas in 1990, our president accepted awards for Epsilon Sigma, honorable mentions for service and philanthropies. We have seven girls from the Junior class who received Intermediate Honors for having a 3.4 or better GPA. We have started a “Best Buddies” program that connects a volunteer with a mentally or physically handicapped adult. Our alumnae have been active with us, sponsoring a Belgian Waffle Breakfast at the house, attending an area barbecue we held for their families, celebrating the 120th anniversary of Kappa with us at Founders Day.

We hosted our Fraternity President, Kay Larson, at a University-wide event called Collaboration Virginia. All Greek organizations and their national representatives met with administration and alumni, generating many ideas to strengthen Greek organizations. We held a desert party for Mrs. Larson, followed by a candlelight tour of campus. At Province Meeting we won the Philanthropy award and second place for Scholarship. In addition to service, we excelled in athletics, winning the intramural championship for lacrosse and field hockey.

A new and extremely rewarding project in 1991 was adopting a family of 11 for Christmas. We divided into groups, with each group responsible for providing gifts and necessities for each child and their grandmother. We plan to make this a tradition.

In 1993 our formal living room was redecorated by the House Board to bring us into the 1990's. Despite one of the coldest and longest winters in Charlottesville in years, we had a successful Rush. Icy weather caused us to cancel a round, but we welcomed 37 new Kappas. We enjoyed a mixer with a new sorority on campus, Gamma Phi Beta.

At Convention in Atlanta in 1994 we won three awards: The Cultural Award, honorable mention for Excellence in Membership Selection, and recognition to the Founders Circle for completing at least 90% of the Challenge to Excellence. In 1995, after a successful Spring rush which welcomed 32 new members,we faced the experience of Fall rush, a new and positive move for UVA sororities. We welcomed another 29 pledges. Both 1995 pledge classes began their Kappa journey with second, third and fourth year “buddy” weeks prior to Big Sister week, which allowed the entire chapter to interact. We participated in Sigma Chi Derby Days which raised funds for the Kluge Children's Rehabilitation Center and the Children's Miracle Network. We continued our efforts with Barrett Day Care Center with Easter and Halloween events and raised money for Hands Against Hunger at Christmas.

Our sisters are involved almost every organization on campus and volunteering is a major aspect of Kappa life. Always very involved in academics with many sisters receiving high honors, during the 1997-98 year one of our seniors was chosen to live on the Lawn, one of UVA's highest honors. For the first time in three years we held a Spring Rush welcoming 31 new members. We had one of the best parent's weekends with dinner and dancing at the Boar's Head Inn, a tailgate at the UVA/Duke game, golf for the Dads, making it a huge success. At Christmas we had an “Angel Tree” to benefit underprivileged Chrlottesville children.

In November 1998 we put on our first annual Kappa for Cancer flag football tournament, with students competing against each other in a day full of different flag football games. The money earned went to the American Cancer Society. We continue our annual Halloween and Easter parties with children at the Barrett Day Care Center. Again we had an “Angel Tree” at Christmas and another dinner-dance at the Boar's Head Inn and tailgate before the UVA/UNC game for Parent's Weekend. Spring Rush brought us 24 new sisters who were wowed with our performance of “Annie” which was a huge hit. Our preference party was held in the Dome Room of the Rotunda with a very inspiring ceremony.

In 1999 we held our 2nd annual Flag Football tournament, Kappa for Cancer and volunteered at a Haunted House downtown on Halloween, where Kappas dressed up and painted faces and handed out goodies to local children. One of our sisters ran in the Chicago Marathon. We again supported “Angel Tree” at Christmas in conjunction with the Salvation Army. Parent's Weekend was a success held again at the Boar's Head Inn and a tailgate before the UVA/Duke game. Speakers came to educate the chapter on AIDS and STD awareness, sexual assault, alcohol and drug awareness and self-defense.

'''Convention Awards:'''

1990: At Convention is Dallas, our president accepted awards for honorable mentions for service and philanthropies;
1994: At Convention in Atlanta we won three awards: The Cultural Award, honorable mention for Excellence in Membership Selection, and recognition to the Founders Circle for completing at least 90% of the Challenge to Excellence.

==Highlights of 2000-2010==

In Feb. 2005 we were recognized as raising the most money for Dance Marathon. Our Kappa Kicks Cancer philanthropy is one of our most successful, this year donating to the American Cancer Society division in New Orleans. Several of our members are from New Orleans so that makes this special.

We continue to work on our Chapter Action Plan and implement the items on our focus letter, by updating our ByLaws and working on our ritual, attendance, etc. Our ISC representative has been a part of a campus discussion on transferring to Panhellenic.

A Founders Day celebration was held Nov. 5 , 2006 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Epsilon Sigma with a special brunch attended by many alumnae and founding members. As part of our Action Plan to educate members, the Archives in a Box from Headquarters was on display for a week. In the Fall we welcomed two transfers from Eta and Beta Delta chapters in Wisconsin and Michigan.

In 2009 we welcomed 38 new members and proudly met the terms of our focus letter.
We had two visits from the Leadership Consultant in the Spring and again in the Fall who helped us improve our chapter. We worked closely with ISC and IFC to improve our alcohol policies and met our risk management standards. Twelve of our members took part in the 3-day Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Walk in Washington, D.C., wearing Kappa t-shirts and raised $30,000.

At the end of 2009, our seniors won the Greek Giving Campaign with all members pledging to donate money to the University. In the Fall members enjoyed a day of apple-picking on nearby Carter Mountain, and our Parent's Weekend formal at Boar's Head Inn was a success. Our flag football philanthropy, Kappa Kickoff, raised more than $3,000 which was donated to the Susan G. Komen Foundation in support of the sisters who participated in the 3-day walk.

==Highlights of 2011–2019:==

==2012==

2012 was an extremely successful and busy year for Epsilon Sigma! Returning from winter break, the chapter fulfilled recruitment with a wonderful and positive attitude despite the tragedy of losing a 2009 Epsilon Sigma alum, Sydney Owens. Sydney’s death was hard on many current chapter members and alumna, yet Epsilon Sigma proved a support system for all.

After receiving excellent return rates, we welcomed 38 new members to our chapter. We changed our process for big and little sisters to mutual selection, allowing for weeks of bonding activities between the first and second year new member classes. This change led to diverse interactions and friendships between the two grades. In February, we raised the most money of any sorority for Dance Marathon, the largest philanthropy at the University of Virginia that supports the UVa Children’s Hospital.

Initiating the new members in early March, Epsilon Sigma received the return of many alumnae, especially mothers and sisters to the girls in the new member class. Initiation allowed for Epsilon Sigma to work on our ritual, something we have been working to improve. We held many practices to help, which proved successful in solidifying our chapter’s ritual.

After returning from Spring Break, Epsilon Sigma geared up for sisterhood events and philanthropies. We hosted a key drive for the Keys for Hope Foundation, which raises money off of recycled keys. Collecting over 60 pounds of keys, Epsilon Sigma donated the money to the Sydney Owens’ Scholarship Foundation. Furthermore, we held another philanthropy, Tug for the Town, which supported the Charlottesville Free Clinic as well as the Sydney Owens’ Scholarship Foundation. In conjunction with Beta Theta Pi, this philanthropy saw the involvement of over 200 students, both non-Greek and Greek. As the semester came to a close, and we said goodbye to the graduates, we held a sisterhood event “Zumba in the Garden”.

A recent goal of our chapter has been to increase sisterhood events, and this was a great start! As the graduates said goodbye to UVa, we celebrated their presence in Kappa by presenting surprise letters and slideshows from their parents. Returning on grounds in the fall, Epsilon Sigma Chapter Council worked diligently to revamp Standards and Risk Management, especially concerning their involvement with social events. Although it was a challenging process, Chapter Council expertly gained support from the entire chapter through transparency.

September marked our annual philanthropy with Kappa Sigma, Kappa Kickoff. Raising money for Reading is Fundamental and the American Heart Association, Epsilon Sigma was able to honor both our national philanthropy and a philanthropy that is personal to a current member. In September we also sent one member of the Epsilon Sigma 2012 class, Haya Yaish, to the Kappa Leadership Academy. Haya was able to expand the Epsilon Sigma network, and brought back a lot of ideas for our chapter.

Again welcoming recent alumna back to Epsilon Sigma, current members and recent alumna helped to organize a charity concert for the Sydney Owens’ Scholarship Foundation. In remembering a dedicated and loved member of Epsilon Sigma, this event helped to again provide a support system for all levels of the chapter. As the weather chilled, many current members in various new member classes ran the Color Run, which supported Hands On Greater Richmond, which helps to organize volunteers in Richmond. Following, Epsilon Sigma held our elections. Utilizing new technology with electronic clickers, the process was streamlined, which helped to make elections run all the more smoothly.

At this time, Epsilon Sigma also welcomed the presence of Britt Nelson, a leadership consultant. Britt was wonderful to help the newly elected members of Chapter Council as well as offer general council, especially concerning ritual, which we have continued to improve. As 2012 came to a close, we held a sisterhood Thanksgiving Potluck, allowing the entire chapter to socialize before preparing for exams. Lastly, tragedy struck the entire Greek community, as a much-loved member of Alpha Phi passed away while on Semester at Sea with members of Epsilon Sigma. This experience personally affected many members of our chapter, yet first and foremost they all hoped to support Alpha Phi, and we did so with letters of condolences and home cooked meals. Despite the pressure of exams, the entire Greek community was able to rally to honor such a wonderful spirit of the Greek community.

The Greek community made large efforts in the last year to strengthen its ties not only with the wider UVa community but also the Charlottesville community. Furthermore, the Inter-Sorority Council (ISC) reworked their judiciary system and bylaws in the spring of 2012, thereby creating a clearer wording of their punishments and guidelines. The Inter-Sorority Council came to each chapter to answer any questions concerning these rules.

As ever, Epsilon Sigma is a tight-knit sisterhood with bright, diverse, and spirited members. In tendency with the rest of the Greek community at UVa, which has a higher average GPA than the UVa-wide average, Epsilon Sigma has incredibly hardworking students. We have held our stance as one of the top average GPAs in the Greek community. Furthermore, Epsilon Sigma has benefited greatly from the diverse array of organizations that our members are involved with outside of the Greek community. In this manner, the Epsilon Sigma has a presence not only in the Greek sphere, but also the entire UVa and Charlottesville community.

Our increased dedication to philanthropies around grounds is evidence of this presence. Furthermore, members of Epsilon Sigma have been increasingly dedicated to our chapter and to Kappa nationally. Leadership on Chapter Council helped to solidify these bonds through information presented on Kappa nationals and the Kappa foundation to all members. The work of Epsilon Sigma to reach out to local alumna shows the outward view that Epsilon Sigma has taken concerning the benefits and abilities of Kappa. We hope to maintain our wonderful membership in the future that help benefit Epsilon Sigma, UVa, and Kappa.

==Highlights of 2020s:==

(To be filled out by the chapter Registrar.) Highlights (scholarship, group honors/awards, special events, philanthropy and service projects, etc.):

'''Philanthropy:'''

'''Housing:'''

'''Convention Awards:'''

-------------------------------
'''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 a complete and accurate history of your chapter for future generations to enjoy!

Epsilon Chi

2013-10-19T17:02:33Z

Desertdawg:

{{Infobox Fraternity
|Name= Epsilon Chi
|GreekSymbol= EX
|Image= [[File:Epsilon_Chi.jpg|200px]]
|Founded= {{start date and years ago|1978|09|30}}
|College= [http://www.dartmouth.edu/ Dartmouth College]
|Location= Hanover, NH
|Homepage= [http://chapters.kappakappagamma.org/epsilonchi/ Epsilon Chi Homepage]
|Media= [http://wiki.kappakappagamma.org/index.php?title=Category:Epsilon_Chi Media related to Epsilon Chi Chapter]}}
----

'''Dartmouth College established in Hanover, New Hampshire'''

'''Epsilon Chi founded September 30,1978'''

'''1,489 initiates (as of June 2013)'''

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'''Charter Members:''' Barbara Anderson, Ann Beringer, Kathleen Bourque, Laurie Branch, Cameron Crone, Alicia Fritz, Jill Frommer, Lizanne Galbreath, Mary Gose, Cynthia Greco, Catherine Haley, Margaret Hall, Kathryn Harper, Elizabeth Harris, Nanette Hart, Margaret Kimball, Anne Minnich, Laura Murphy, Sheila Murphy, Susan Myers, Letitia Pemberton, Sandra Perkowski, Rebecca Randall, Ingrid Schmakel, Jan Smedly, Julie Wallin, Susan Weiss

'''Some of Epsilon Chi’s Outstanding Alumnae:'''

'''Fraternity Council Members:'''

Adrienne Draper (Olson), Leadership Consultant 2004-2005

'''Fraternity Loyalty Award:'''

'''Fraternity Alumnae Achievement Award Recipients:'''Kirsten Rutnik Gillibrand, 2014, politics

'''Additional Outstanding Epsilon Chi Alumnae:'''

Kirsten Gillibrand, United States Senator from New York 2009; previously served in United States House of Representatives, representing New York's 20th Congressional District.

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==The Early Years:==

The Reverend Eleazar Wheelock, a Congregational minister from Connecticut, founded Dartmouth College in 1769. He had earlier established Moor’s Charity School in Lebanon, Connecticut, principally for the education of Native Americans. In seeking to expand his school into a college, Wheelock relocated his educational enterprise to Hanover, in the Royal Province of New Hampshire. Samson Occom, a Mohergan Indian and one of Wheelock’s first students, was instrumental in raising substantial funds for the College. The Royal Governor of New Hampshire, John Wentworth, provided the land upon which Dartmouth would be built and on December 13, 1769, conveyed the charter from King George III establishing the College. That charter created a college “for the education and instruction of Youth of the Indian Tribes in this Land...and also of English Youth and any others.” Names for William Legge, the Second Earl of Dartmouth - an important supporter of Eleazar Wheelock’s efforts - Dartmouth is the nation’s ninth oldest college.

The Supreme Court decision in the famous “Dartmouth College Case” of 1819, argued by Daniel Webster (Class of 1801), is considered to be one of the most important and formative documents in the United States constitutional history, strengthening the contract clause of the Constitution and thereby paving the way for all American private institutions to conduct their affairs in accordance with their charters and without interference from the state.

An Ivy League institution, Dartmouth College enrolls approximately 4,100 undergraduates in the liberal arts and 1,700 graduate students. In addition to 19 graduate programs in the arts and sciences, it is home to the nation’s fourth oldest medical school; the Dartmouth Medical School, founded in 1797; the nation’s first professional school of engineering; the Thayer School of Engineering, founded in 1867; and the first graduate school of management in the word: the Tuck School of Business, established in 1900.

Philanthropy is focused on David’s House and Genesis Elder Care Center in Lebanon.

==Installation of Epsilon Chi Chapter==

On September 30, 1978, Epsilon Chi Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma was installed at Dartmouth College. Kappa Kappa Gamma became the second sorority on the Dartmouth campus, colonizing in the spring of 1978. Sigma Kappa was the first national sorority to be established on the campus in the spring of 1977.

During the summer of 1978, the charter members took their first pledge class of 10 members. Members of the first pledge class were: Barbara Briggs, Terrie Duda, Kathryn Flintner, Kim Leighton, Susan Marshall, Barbara Martin, Page Polk, Judy Reardon, Virginia Taylor, and Maja Wessels. Twenty-seven of the chapter members and three of the pledges were present at installation. The charter members who were not present at Installation were initiated the following January.

Sue Wolcott, Cornell, studying at the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth served as Epsilon Chi’s first graduate counselor. Margaret Hall, Dartmouth Class of 1979 served as the chapter’s first president.

The festivities were well attended by Fraternity officers, Kappa actives and alumnae from throughout the northeast. Representing the Fraternity were: President Jean Hess Wells, Georgia; Director of Chapters Sally Moore Nitschke, Ohio State; Chairman of Extension Marjorie Matson Converse, Purdue; Lorna Jean Telfer, McGill, Alpha Province Director of Chapters; and Mary Sexton Brooks, Purdue, Alpha Province Director of Alumnae.

Marjorie Koza, Syracuse, served as the Alumnae Marshal and was responsible for the beautifully organized weekend of events. The Hanover area alumnae were marvelous for “taking the reins” since the chapter’s colonization the previous spring and came through once again in assuring the success of the installation.

The Cornell Kappas traveled many long hours to assist in the colonization the previous spring and to become the first sisters of the charter members. They were on hand again at Installation to help formally welcome the women into the Fraternity. Representatives from the following chapters were also present: McGill; Toronto; St. Lawrence; Connecticut; Massachusetts; and Syracuse. There was even a reunion of former Council officers at the home of Virginia Parker Blanchard, Boston, which included Ruth Hoehle Lane, Boston; Miriam Pheteplace Schick, Deuteron - St. Lawrence; Cathryn Wolf Luce, Denison; and Jeannette Greever Rustemeyer, Kansas.

The Installation Banquet provided good food and greetings and well wishes galore. Marj Converse served as Toastmistress, and Isabelle Weiss, President of the Cornell chapter was the first to toast to the new chapter. Dr. Marilyn Baldwin, Associate Dean of the College, gave a warm welcome to Dartmouth’s newest women’s group. Sally Nitschke read letters of greeting from chapters and alumnae throughout the United States and Canada. Jean Wells presented the banquet address.

Gifts were presented to the chapter which included many silver serving pieces and a Kappa flag. The closing service was followed by tearful farewells to many old and many newly made friends in the Kappa family, and a look ahead to the next regional gathering at Alpha Province Meeting, to be held in Canton, New York in the spring of 1979, home of Beta Beta Deuteron - St. Lawrence.

Joining Sigma Kappa at Dartmouth, the Kappas might be termed “pioneer women” on this formerly all-male campus. Kappa decided to establish a chapter on this campus whose fundamental purpose is to provide an undergraduate experience that will train young men and women to become leaders of our society. The College prides itself on the fact that freshmen courses are taught by the best members of the faculty. Special facilities, such as the million-volume library, a superb center for the creative arts, and the best educational computing facility in the country, are freely available to all students and have a pervasive influence on undergraduate education. Above all, undergraduates feel part of a small, closely knit community that provides a fellowship to be cherished for life.

When the Board of Trustees decided to admit women, they also initiated the Dartmouth Plan where a student spends at least one summer term studying at the College and approximately ¾ of the student body are in residence at any one term.

When one speaks of Dartmouth College, one talks of the importance of “place.” The college is located in a lovely town in northern New England, in an area of great natural beauty, removed from the pressures of urban or suburban life. It is an ideal location for the life of the mind, where the out-of-doors plays a major role in the shaping of individual personalities.

==Highlights of the 1980s==

This decade saw the following: election of President Ronald Reagan; Sandra Day O’Connor selected as the first woman justice to the Supreme Court; first Space Shuttle, Columbia, lifted off; Beirut barracks bombing occurred killing American and French servicemen; Lockerbie Disaster when terrorists blew up the plane over Scotland; Chernobyl disaster in the Ukraine filled much of the world with radioactive debris; Challenger disaster left six astronauts and one woman school teacher dead; protestors at Tiananmen Square were crushed by the Peoples Liberation Army; fall of the Berlin Wall was the most momentous event of the decade; oil tanker Exxon Valdez caused one of the worst ecological disasters ever; War on Drugs accelerated; worldwide the beginning of the AIDS pandemic; and rejection of smoking based on health issues. Personal computers experienced massive growth.

Dartmouth began accepting women as students in 1972, so Kappa was a particularly important source of female support. Men outnumbered women on campus and dominated the College. The class of 1981 was close to 70% male. As one active put it, the women’s lacrosse team and Kappa “were very important to me in that I felt supported by other women, and not constantly surrounded by men. I knew women in the dorms, but Kappa was very special.” Another active remembers meetings were “probably the only time we weren’t outnumbered by the men.”

Challenges faced by sororities in general stemmed from the male-dominated campus and the small number of sororities. With only three sororities in 1981, there were many more women who wished to join a sorority than there were places for them. Despite the addition of a fourth sorority in 1982, the lack of enough sororities continued to be a problem throughout the 1980s.

Around campus, the administration was trying to minimize the importance of alcohol because of the level of alcohol abuse. They did this by encouraging social alternatives to Greek life, such as dormitory social events and events at Collis Center. There was a lot of resistance to giving up the “Indian” as the mascot for Dartmouth at sporting events. Sororities and fraternities were very vocal in their opposition to giving up the mascot. Dartmouth was somewhat politically conservative, and the Dartmouth Review published several offensive and controversial articles.

Kappas were known for being “smart and elegant...and not necessarily party animals.” Around campus, styles were preppy. One active remembered that the people at Dartmouth were so beautiful. Most girls wore their hair long and natural, and wore hair bands and pearls for fancier occasions. Turtlenecks with whales and strawberries, wise whaled cords, and plaid skirts ruled the day. Kappas worked very hard on their studies, as they all had big dreams about graduate school and Wall Street careers. It was a very traditional, career focused time.

In 1985 the College passed Minimum Standards expected of all fraternities and sororities. These standards presented many challenges to the Greeks and a stress level to meet those expectations. The faculty and administrators began to exam the role of fraternities and sororities on campus as the system was thought to be racist and sexist. A new College Alcohol Policy went into effect to have Alcohol Monitors at each party.

In 1987 a major issue at Dartmouth was the treatment of women at the College and ways needed to be implemented to help all women feel more comfortable, while eliminating subtle areas of sexism around campus. An issue arose in the sororities regarding affiliation with a national organization and what that affiliation meant. Epsilon Chi needed to decide which was better for the sisters to continue to belong to KKG or to become a local. Fraternity President Marian Williams, Missouri, visited the chapter to discuss the issue. After a lengthy meeting, the chapter voted to stay with Kappa Kappa Gamma. To those on the opposing side, they made chapter unity an issue. All chapter goals during the later part of the decade centered around the value of the individual, sisterhood, and working together for the benefit of the chapter.

In 1988 the College imposed a new policy of delayed rush. It wasn’t held until spring term of the sophomore year. As a result, each chapter lost one entire pledge class during that year. The chapter viewed this policy as one more step on the part of the administration toward decreasing the role of sororities and fraternities on campus.

The members of Epsilon Chi were very active on campus and in the community as volunteers, members of many organizations, honoraries, varsity and intramural teams, Summer and Winter Carnivals, Presidential Scholars and Senior Fellows. One year saw five members achieve Cum Laude, three Magna Cum Laude, and four Phi Beta Kappa.

'''Housing:'''

Many alumnae agree that the biggest issue facing the chapter in 1980 was not having a house. They held their meetings and dances in dorm rooms, college meeting rooms, and at the Quechee Inn and other nice places. Finally in January 1983, the Kappas got a house, the former ABC house on East Wheelock Street. The College did many renovations to the house, and there was a “high degree of enthusiasm” for the house among the sisters.

Once they moved into their new house, they had to deal with the difficulties of having a house. Some of the decisions they had to make included which officers had to live in the house, how to offer the remaining rooms to the other sisters, and who would have to live in the house in the unlikely event that no one wanted to live in.

In 1984 the members painted the interior of the house and gave t-shirts to all who helped. In 1985 the College changed the housing contract to include rent for the “common areas” of the house, and if it were not filled to capacity, the College could move a non-member in. The Kappas quickly discovered a major drawback of being a college owned house was authority college officials had over how the house was run and how it should be used. Toward the end of the decade, the chapter began to devise a male visitation policy.

'''Philanthropy:'''

The highly successful Grandfather program continued. The chapter held a variety of parties with different themes each term for the elderly alumni and their wives. They would discuss topics from politics to the rich Dartmouth history. Kappas also held their annual Ski-a-thon to raise money for a summer camp for diabetic children. Actives visited local nursing homes spreading hope and good cheer. They hosted their annual Monte Carlo night over Parents Weekend to raise money for the United Way, also sponsored a bake sale for the same cause. They annually assembled Easter Baskets, collected food for Ethiopia, volunteered and raised money for the Kurn Hattin School for abused children, the Taco dinner raised money for cancer research, and the Chili Chow dinner benefited SAMS (Students Against Multiple Sclerosis). Special Olympics was an important philanthropy on their schedule.

'''Convention Awards:'''

==Highlights of the 1990s==

The 1990s is often considered the true dawn of the Information Age. Info-age digital technologies became widely used by the general public. Highlights include: Gulf War with Iraq began in 1991, same year as the Soviet Union’s dissolution ended; funeral procession of Diana, Princess of Wales, was mourned worldwide; World Trade Center and the Oklahoma City Federal Building bombings led to awareness of domestic and international terrorism as a real threat; Columbine High School massacre occurred; President William Clinton was a dominant political figure and scarred by the Lewinsky scandal; Youth culture embraced environmental issues. Record numbers of women were elected to high office in the US.

1990 was the first year for the implementation of the delayed rush to sophomore year at Dartmouth. As a result, the numbers of people joining did not go down but the numbers were not evenly distributed between chapters. To accommodate the D Plan, sororities now had to conduct two rush periods a year. New federal legislation required colleges to enforce the drinking age or risk losing financial age. During fall term, the chapter went through an evaluation of its relationship with Kappa Kappa Gamma. As a result, the commitment was strengthened.

In 1995 there were a series of hate crimes victimizing minorities on campus. The chapter sponsored many programs to combat that issue. They sponsored alcohol awareness, SAFE, Suicide and Grief, and Untamed Shrews. They limited their social co-sponsored events with fraternities to adapt to the new alcohol policy. The sorority system had been targeted by other students on campus who questioned the role the Greek system played in supporting women on the campus.

In 1999, Epsilon Chi hosted the Province Meeting and celebrated its sisterhood, chapter history, and national history in honor of their 20th anniversary as a Kappa chapter.

Epsilon Chi Chapter was striving to define itself and offer its members an outlet for social development with other women. The chapter was also striving to define itself as an important member of both the Dartmouth and Hanover community. Members continued their outstanding participation in varsity team and intramural sports, Green Key and other honoraries, Order of Omega, Presidential Scholars, Rotary Scholars, class officers, and tour guides. In 1997, the chapter passed the Minimum Standards Review with Distinction.

At the end of the decade, the Board of Trustees and the Dartmouth President
announced their decision to eliminate single sex housing which would eliminate the Greek system as it was known on the campus.

'''Housing:'''

Toward the end of the decade, there was a break in at the house with significant damage. Thus the first floor of the house was completely redecorated with new furniture and curtains. New safety lights, new locks on doors and windows were installed.

'''Philanthropy:'''

Service to others remained an important part of chapter life. The Grandfather program continued and remained very popular on both sides. They held a Audrey Proudy bike ride to raise money for the Norris Cotton Cancer Center, raked leaves for the Bugbee Senior Citizens Center, held their Chili Chow dinner for SAMS, participated in the Red Cross Blood Drive and Make a Difference Day, collected cans for the Race Against Hunger Food Drive, and assumed a new Dartmouth sponsored philanthropy at the Genesis Home where sisters went and painted water colors with those living there. They won the Province Meeting Philanthropy Award for the third time in a row.

'''Convention Awards:'''

==Highlights of 2000-2010==

Globalization continued to influence the world. A prime contributor was the growth of the Internet. Wireless Internet became prominent and email became the standard form of communicating. Highlights included: George W. Bush was elected President; 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Centers led the US War on Terrorism at home and abroad; U.S. was once again involved in war with Iraq and limited engagement began in Afghanistan; Mexican Drug War saw armed conflict between rival drug cartels which would eventually dominate the wholesale illicit drug market in the U.S.; Virginia Tech Massacre became the deadliest shooting on a school campus. Climate change and global warming became household words, and population growth skyrocketed. In 2008 Barack Obama became the first African American elected as U.S. President.

There was a large community feeling at Dartmouth that was very engaging, centered around Greek Life and organizations, highly intellectual with the world at the students fingertips! Whether it was service, work in the real world, studying abroad, the College accommodates the students and what they want to do.

Epsilon Chi was an extremely diverse chapter and well-rounded. Almost any club, sport, or organization was represented in some way within the chapter and that added a lot of dynamism. The chapter was a proud group of women who were seen as leaders and go-getters around campus. So many women engaged in so many different and amazing things that it made the sisters proud to be a part of the same organization.

The chapter completely rewrote its officer election process and the chapter bylaws, so they were more relative to them. One of their challenges was participation in various mandatory events, while most were still fun and engaging, a lot of people had other commitments that were equally important and instead of rearranging their schedule they used it as an excuse not to come. The Chapter Council tried to make events more spontaneous and seem more appealing so people would want to come, and it proved successful.

Recruitment was extremely memorable and brought the chapter members even closer. The news that a Dartmouth Kappa Kirsten Gillibrand was named as the youngest member of the U.S. Senate was thrilling and made the chapter proud.

'''Philanthropy:'''

Chapter members continued the legacy of outstanding campus and community service. New to the chapter was a Tanzania fund started by one of its graduates. They also became incredibly active in suicide prevention in memory of a lost sister Katy Cullinan. They actively supported the drunk driving awareness program called the Gordy Foundation.

'''Convention Awards:'''

==Highlights from 2011-2019:==

(Information from chapter history reports, 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.)

The economic crisis made it difficult for college graduates to find jobs; students graduating with accumulated debt found their future bleak; the war in Iraq officially ended.

Dartmouth is a beautiful campus with a down-to-earth student body. There is still a general feeling that the College remains male-dominated, but there has been improvement during the past years. The social scene is almost entirely centered around Greek life, as approximately 60% of the eligible student body is a member of a Greek house. Many students travel abroad on an FSP or LSA and hold internships during their off terms.

There are currently 137 members in the Epsilon Chi Chapter. Members are a very diverse group of women from around the world. The chapter has varsity athletes, national athletic champions, Olympians, Presidential Scholars, multilinguists, actresses in mainstage productions, members of the Croos and Wall Street analysts. They are seen around campus as hard-working, motivated women who accomplish great things.

The chapter has been challenged to improve its academic standing on campus and to lessen the campus viewpoint that Kappas are an exclusive group of women. To appear to be more approachable, the women scheduled social events with groups with whom they are not usually associated and hosted more campus-wide events. Because the chapter cannot host parties, most of the campus has not been to the Kappa house, the chapter hosted an improvisation comedy group and some discussions with professors to get non-sisters exposed to the house. The change to annual budget planning significantly increased the chapter’s ability to participate in events and made the chapter run more smoothly.

'''Philanthropy:'''

During sophomore summer, the chapter raised more than $10,000 for cancer research, the most raised by any Greek organization at Dartmouth.

==Highlights of the 2020s:==

(Information from chapter history reports, 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:'''

'''Philanthropy:'''

'''Convention Awards:'''

---------------

'''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 a complete and accurate history of your chapter for future generations to enjoy!

Beta Eta Deuteron

2013-10-19T16:59:13Z

Desertdawg:

{{Infobox Fraternity
|Name= Beta Eta Deuteron
|GreekSymbol= BH<sup>Δ</sup>
|Image= [[File:Beta_Eta_Deuteron.jpg|200px]]
|Founded= {{start date and years ago|1892|06|10}}
|College= [http://www.stanford.edu/ Stanford University] formerly The Leland Stanford Junior University
|Location= Stanford, CA
|Homepage= [http://chapters.kappakappagamma.org/betaeta/ Beta Eta Deuteron Homepage]
|Media= [http://wiki.kappakappagamma.org/index.php?title=Category:Beta_Eta_Deuteron Media related to Beta Eta Deuteron Chapter]
}}

<table><tr><td>
'''Beta Eta Deuteron Chapter, Stanford University'''

'''Leland Stanford Jr. University established in 1891 in Palo Alto, California'''

'''Founded as Beta Eta June 10, 1892 with 11 charter members; Closed 1944 -- 494 initiates (as of 1944 closure)'''

'''Beta Eta Deuteron founded as Beta Eta Deuteron in 1978'''

'''1,124 initiates (as of June 2013)'''

---------------------

'''Some of Beta Eta’s Outstanding Alumnae:''' (If you have chapter alumna who have received recognition in any of these three categories, please list them with the date(s) of recognition.)

'''Fraternity Council Officers:'''

Emily Caskey Johnson, Vice President 1944-1948, Director of Alumnae1940-1944, Director of Provinces 1936-1938, Director of Standards 1934-1936; Elizabeth Voris Lawry, Grand Treasurer 1906-1908

'''Fraternity Loyalty Award Recipients:'''

'''Fraternity Alumnae Achievement Award Recipients:'''Charlotte Jones Anderson, 2014, professional sports marketing and philanthropy;

'''Additional Outstanding Beta Eta Deuteron Alumnae''':

Lola Nashashi, Graduate Counselor 1977-1978

-----------------------------

==The Early Years (From The History of Kappa Kappa Gamma 1870–1976)==

Beta Eta Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma at Stanford University, Palo Alto, California, survived an earthquake; the chapter house was twice ravaged by fire; and members adjusted to the changes of two World Wars.

But suddenly, in 1944, Beta Eta Chapter was gone, removed with all other women’s fraternities from the Stanford campus.

By a special act of the California Legislature, the act of endowment embodying the charter of the institution, and a gift, 80,000 acres of land was made public in November, 1885. The Leland Stanford Jr. University, endowed by Senator and Mrs. Stanford as a memorial to their only son, was formally opened October 1, 1891. It was the opinion of many persons that California already had its university so why have another? But attracted by its possibilities, 465 students, many older than the average, arrived that first year from all over the world.

Beta Eta was established June 10, 1892, six months after a chapter of Kappa Alpha Theta. The two fraternities, in an agreement about bidding procedures, set the stage for the Panhellenic organization.

Lou Henry (Hoover) was a sophomore and not yet a Kappa when Lucy Evelyn Wight (Allan), BB—St. Lawrence, grand president in 1890-1892, went to Stanford for graduate study. The two women became close friends. Evelyn Wight became Stanford’s first dean of women, and Lou Henry was initiated in 1896 when the chapter was four years old.

Initiations had taken place in the music room of Roble hall, and the chapter met in member’s rooms. Later a second-floor apartment was rented, and then a house on campus. By the spring of 1899, business arrangements had been made for building on the west side of Lasuen Street where the only other structure was the Phi Delta Theta house.

Kappas made daily trips to watch the progress of construction, and the move was made in January, 1900.

Beta Eta was the first Kappa chapter to build its own house and the first to own a house.
The beloved house was described in the July, 1900 issue of The Key as having “sloping moss green roofs, pointed gables, dormer windows. The wrought iron lattice over the door bears the letters KKΓ and the art glass windows with the fleur-de-lis embedded in the cardinal, form an artistic entrance… the third floor, the abode of the freshmen, and familiarly known as ‘the attic’ is one large room… the most delightful place for initiation and informal spreads, while from its many windows one gains the best view of the surrounding hills covered with oak trees and, in the spring, ablaze with the glorious California poppies… From its setting of green foothills, (the house) looks across the level fields, over the treetops of the Arboretum to the narrow line of bay and the hazy blue mountains beyond.”

The earthquake of April 18, 1906, brought normal college life to a halt. There was great damage on the Stanford campus. When the chapter returned to school in September, member found that the house had remained untouched during the summer, rather than repaired, since labor and materials were so scarce. A luncheon for freshmen had been scheduled for registration day. Because their dishes were broken and the plaster down, the resourceful Kappas partied on the porch.

Early in September, 1918, the house was badly damaged by fire; and again during summer quarter of 1927 there was a fire and chapter members returned to find the roof gone. By January, 1928, aware of the difficulties of separation, the chapter was able to get back together. The alumnae corporation and the Fraternity had made it possible to repair the damages, and the Mother’s Club had raised a considerable fund to help refurnish the house. In 1934 the house association constructed a much-needed wing to provide additional bedrooms, a chapter room, and a lounge.

Field Secretary Helen Snyder (Andres), BΠ—Washington, wrote in the February, 1933, issue of The Key, after her first visit to Stanford, “… my fondest expectations realized in its fine students, beautiful buildings with arcades, quadrangles, magnificent memorial chapel, palm trees, and landscaped grounds… long a fine chapter… scholastic and activity honors are many… a congenial chapter.” Her first official act as grand president in June, 1935, was to call for ratification of the appointment of Beta Eta’s Emily Caskey Johnson as director of standards.

Emily’s ability, energy, and a frequently changing address made her the best-known Kappa in the northwest. The Palo Alto alumnae loved to have an excuse to bring Emily into the conversation.
The relationship between Beta Eta, Π—California, and the alumnae was good, with a common meeting ground in the annual fashion show in which the actives modeled. Although proceeds of the fashion show were usually marked for scholarships, in 1942 they were earmarked for national defense. The show was given in the daytime because of rules against off-campus night parties, and the possibility of blackouts.

During World War II several rooms in the chapter house were blacked out so the girls could study, and there were changes in their living habits. The girls squeezed their own orange juice for breakfast, when oranges were available; did their own house cleaning; and skipped an occasional meal “to humor the cook.” And they understood “It is a very little part of war’s reality… These changes show that life on a college campus need not be as carefree as ‘the good old days’ in order to be one of the most wonderful times in our lives.”

During World War II, social affairs and volunteer work were often combines, taking the form of benefits. The chapter was interested in Belgian War Relief, and the plans of the food administration. The chairman of the Stanford Women’s Red Cross Unit was a Kappa, and there were regular Red Cross hours and much knitting. Three actives left for service in France.

Lou Henry Hoover, wife of the ex-president of the United States, herself a scholar and adventurer as well as the devoted patron of the Girl Scouts of America, died suddenly January 7, 1944, in New York. Four days later Ann Claire Brokaw, daughter of Claire Booth Luce, a senior majoring in political science, was killed in an automobile accident.

Although Beta Eta had acquired new pledges early in 1944, and initiation was conducted that spring, by the term’s end, Beta Eta too was gone, removed with all the other women’s houses from the Stanford campus. The administration and the dean of women, a fraternity woman herself, had shown a consistent disapproval for the fraternity system and for 20 years sororities and their alumnae fought a losing battle against the final outcome. (In 1923 a vote had been taken to discover the feeling of sororities concerning “the justification of their existence,” and from 1925 Panhellenic, with Beta Eta taking a leading part, had tried to prove to the university that sororities had a definite place in the life of a university women.)

By fall of 1944 the chapter house had become a university residence, and the December, 1944, letter from the Palo Alto alumnae mentions that three of the no-longer-active chapter members had been guests at an alumnae meeting and “the alumnae regretted losing the inspiration of the actives.”

The chapter was known for its interesting, active women. Among them were Barbara Griffith Dolfini, whose miniature rooms were displayed at the Golden Gate Fair; Dr. Florence Mable Holsclaw, directing head of Babies Aid, San Francisco; Bertha L. Chapman Cady, Ph.D., botanist and author; Ethel Wallace Bryant, dean of the Castilleja School; Harriet Ford Griswold, civic worker for rehabilitation of cripples; and Jean Henry Large, author of Girl Scout books. Anna Henrietta Martin was a writer, an associate of Jane Adams in the International League for Peace, and chairman of the National Women’s Party. Before the turn of the century she had been chairman of the Beta Eta committee that compiled the Fraternity Catalogue, giving the name and record of each of the 3000 members. “Edited by Beta Eta” is on the title page of that 1898 volume. And of course there was Mrs. Hoover, Beta Eta’s “proudest possession,” even though she refused to have a Kappa key placed on her effigy’s bosom in the Smithsonian.

In the last chapter picture of Beta Eta members ever taken, all but two are smiling, because smiling is what is done for pictures. It might almost be thought that 1944 had been another good year in the history of “an alive and stimulating chapter.”
--------------------------------
The previous information was excerpted from The History of Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity, 1870-1976. The information that follows has been gleaned from available resources including Chapter History Reports, chapter meeting minutes, letters and comments from chapter members and alumnae, the Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity Archives, and The Key. Each chapter is expected to update its history record annually. Contact Fraternity Headquarters at kkghq@kkg.org with questions.
--------------------------------

==Women’s Fraternities Return to Stanford==

Nestled in the Stanford Hills of Palo Alto, California, is a beautiful university campus whose focal point is its magnificent Hoover Tower. Ever since the rains started turning these
beautiful hills green and covering them with abundant blankets of bright orange California Poppies, purple Lupine, yellow Mustard, and white Clover, and the Stanford Board of Trustees
voted to lift a thirty-three year ban on sororities, a new purpose and interest has sprouted among many of the women students Now in full bloom-Sororities have returned to Leland Stanford University.

In 1944, the Beta Eta Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma was removed with seven other sororities from the Stanford campus by the University, leaving only men's fraternities to continue. Many months ago great enthusiasm started vibrating through the campus when there were rumors regarding the lifting of the ban on sororities. Local groups started forming around Active transfers and Legacies of NPC groups with the intent of organizing the return of the women's Greek system to Stanford, if in fact the ban was lifted, and then to petition their respective National Councils for reinstatement and/or chartering.

In December, 1977, the ban was lifted but that did not mean what we had hoped it would. The lifting of the ban did not mean that the University was inviting sororities back on campus-
only that they would not stop the women students from forming and/or joining any outside interest groups. It would instead mean restrictions on housing, meeting rooms, and University
recognition. Even with this atmosphere, these women were determined to have NPC sororities back at Stanford and join with the already existing men's fraternities for a full Greek system.

In the spring of 1978, a Kappa transfer from Bucknell Lola Nashashibi, showed her interest in starting a group. There seemed to be great interest to join with Lola and organize what they all hoped would someday become a Kappa chapter. This group worked together in a small number which, by the time they were ready to petition, was increased to an interested 45 women, with 34 signing the formal petition for the reinstatement of Beta Eta Chapter.

These women met at their request, Jean Hess Wells, Georgia, (Fraternity President) and Pat Maness Kriz (Pi PDC) in early February, 1978, to discuss Kappa in full and to discover why this particular group of women was interested in Kappa. The subjects covered were finances, philanthropies, policies, standards, obligations and commitment, and their desire for a lasting tie to their college days. With all questions answered (both from Kappa and to Kappa) and the determination of these women, their petition to Kappa Council was in the mail within a week after this meeting.

The petition was granted February. On February 21st, after a pot-luck dinner at the home of Mrs. Duane L. Hillyard, there was a candle passing ceremony announcing formal pinning of the blue and blue ribbons. Formal colonization was held March 2, 1978, in the lovely home of Erna Gaede Kurtzon, Northwestern, with 29 outstanding women pledged: Among those attending were VerMehr (Pi Province Magazine Chairman); Presidents of the Palo Alto, San Jose, and San Mateo Alumnae Associations – Janet Nelson Reimers, Oregon State, Barbara Reith Collier, San Jose State; and Louise Forve Barker, UCLA, respectively; and the colonizing team – Kay Smith Larson, Washington, Director of Chapters and Colonizing Officer; Pat Maness Kriz, Colorado, Pi, PDC; Ann Fletcher Colvin, Washington State, Pi PDA; and Patricia Ball Hillyard, San Jose State, Colonization Chairman.

The Beta Eta Deuteron Colony consisted of its 29 pledges and two active transfers –Lola Nashashibi, Bucknell, who was to be Beta Eta Deuteron’s Undergraduate Counselor , and Elizabeth Abel, UC Davis. As spring Rush was fast approaching, the colony was soon to increase its size.
As there had been much time and energy spent in organizing the individual sororities (Alpha Phi, Kappa Alpha Theta, Pi Beta Phi and Kappa plus two local groups hoping to be Nationally recognized by Chi Omega and Kappa Delta) so had there been in organizing an lntcr-Sorority Council complete with others. Their main goal was to have a successful and compatible “Panhellenic” spring Rush.

And so it seemed that the women’s Greek system had indeed found a fertile place to grow and be strong. Beta Eta Deuteron had bloomed again was already enjoying togetherness through exchanges with fraternities, parties, dining together, philanthropic work, and a holiday for some in Hawaii. They worked well with the full Advisory Board and felt the women Greeks were there to stay – working hard toward the “total” Greek System – opportunity for all – again at Stanford.

'''Installation'''

Beta Eta Deuteron installation was a huge success with more than 600 Kappas from near and far attending the events of the weekend at Stanford University in Palo Alto, California.

The weekend started Friday, October 20th at a fireside with Fraternity treasurer Jean Schmidt, Miami, presiding. The next morning an installation/initiation ceremony (led by Marian Klingbeil Williams, Missouri, director of membership; Kay Smith Larson, Washington, installation officer
and former Fraternity officer; and Jean Hess Wells, Georgia, Fraternity president), saw 27 colonizers receive their pins. After a delicious box luncheon was enjoyed by the 200 in attendance, they again assembled to teach the new initiates the songs and procedures of initiation so they could in turn pin their little sisters. The afternoon initiation saw the first initiates pin 30 of the pledges from the previous spring rush, making a total of 57 active members to start Beta Eta Deuteron. Immediately following the initiations was a lovely reception in the Castilleja School in Palo Alto for parents, alumnae, sororities, fraternities, faculty, family, and friends.

Sunday morning started with a Model Chapter Meeting, conducted by Fraternity President Wells. This was followed by a crumpous luncheon banquet, with the toastmistress Elizabeth
Bennitt Denebeim, Missouri, former Kappa Province Director of Chapters, and the wonderful speaker Helen Snyder Andres Steiner, Washington, former Fraternity president.

Many gifts were received by the chapter including a framed reproduction of the original Beta Eta charter given by California at Berkeley; an engraved guest book was presented by the Beta Eta Deuteron Advisory Board; and a pair of engraved silver candelabra from the Palo Alto Alumnae, made possible by a donation to the alumnae group by Mary Connor Bowles, Akron. Also given to the chapter was a framed composite of individual pictures of the first initiates by the first initiates and a beautiful patchwork quilt symbolizing Kappa events by the second initiates.

Highlighting the luncheon were four special presentations. Edna Martin Parratt, UC Berkeley, who had three Beta Eta aunts, presented an 1894 emerald and diamond key, originally belonging to her aunt Gertrude Martin to be used the Beta Eta Deuteron president’s key (Edna was initiated into Pi Chapter in 1922 with this badge.) Gertrude's sister, Anna Henrietta Martin, had a sapphire and diamond key which Edna, in 1976, presented to Pi Deuteron for its president’s key. Isn’t it ironic that when Pi chapter was reinstated Beta Eta was the installing chapter, and when Beta Eta was reinstated Pi Deuteron was the installing chapter, and that both of their presidents' keys were presented.

Edgarita Webster George, Washington, presented her own beautiful all diamond key which will be used as a special award badge. Presented by Linda Scatena, San Jose State, the last president of the chapter there was the Delta Chi gavel given to them by the SAE Fraternity, and the Delta Chi president’s key with the gavel guard which is an 1898 ruby and diamond key which belonged to Ethel McLellen Ward, Stanford. This key will also be used as a special award badge. Elizabeth Wohlford, the new Beta Eta Deuteron president, was initiated by her grandmother Mildren Finley Wohlford, Stanford, with an 1894 pearl and emerald key which had been given to Elizabeth by a family friend. It has belonged to Nellie Louise Parrit, Illinois Wesleyan.

As the weekend came to a close, everyone felt a tremendous amount of gratitude for all those special people who made it possible. There was the overwhelming support from active chapters which included UC Berkeley, California State Davis, California State Northridge, UC Santa Barbara which has just been installed the previous weekend. Even Texas was represented. The very hard working alumnae included Contra Costa County, San Mateo, San Jose, and especially Palo Alto. With the help of Jeanne McCune Spaulding, UCLA, fireside chairman, Maggie Ely Pringle, Oregon, reception chairman, and Ann Norton Davis, Northwestern, luncheon chairman and their wonderful committees, the entire weekend became a very special memory for everyone who attended.
Other Fraternity personnel attending were Patricia Maness Kriz, Colorado, Pi PDC; Ann Fletcher Colvin, Washington State, Pi PDA; Lola Nashashibi, Bucknell, undergraduate counselor; and Patricia Ball Hillyard, San Jose State, installation chairman and Marshall. Janeen Gould, St. Lawrence and Barbara Laitner, Colorado, both former Graduate Counselors and field secretaries, and Jean Ebright Elin, Ohio State, Fraternity Headquarters representative, were present.

Since the spring, 1978 issue of The Key report, progress continued with the sorority system at Stanford. Now Alpha Phi, Kappa Alpha Theta, Kappa Kappa Gamma, and Pi Beta Phi chapters had been installed.

==Highlights of the 1980s:==

(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:'''

'''Philanthropy:'''

'''Convention Awards:'''

==Highlights of the 1990s:==

(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:'''

'''Philanthropy:'''

'''Convention Awards:'''

==Highlights of 2000-2010==

Beta Eta Deuteron was involved in many activities both on campus and within the Greek system. A Kappa Career night was held with local alumnae who shared career experiences and provided networking opportunities. As an unhoused chapter, Beta Eta Deuteron found it a challenge to find an appropriate place to hold chapter meetings every week, but negotiated with the University to use Breer Library for their meetings. Chapter unity and attendance at meetings and events was a focus for the chapter. Fun chapter events included the Kappa Kentucky Derby with everyone wearing hats, the Kappa Holiday Party, the Monmouth Duo and Kite and Key formals. Programs were presented on Substance Abuse and an interactive game of Kappa History Jeopardy. Greek Day brought together men and women from all of the sororities and fraternities for a rally in White Plaza before a football game.

During this period, the chapter took steps towards publishing a quarterly newsletter for chapter members, alumnae and parents and redid its website. They considered their website to be an asset for Recruitment purposes since they did not have a chapter house. A successful workshop on resume building and career development was organized by the chapter and sponsored by Stanford’s Career Development Center. Scholarship was always important with high cumulative G.P.A.s for the chapter. Many members were involved in campus sports, with one member receiving the Herman Trophy for women’s soccer.

'''Housing:'''

Beta Eta Dueteron is an unhoused chapter. In 2010, the chapter established a Housing Committee to draft an application to the University stating the reasons the chapter should have a house.

'''Philanthropy:'''

Beta Eta Deuteron baked cookies for the children at the Ronald McDonald House near campus, and joined a fraternity one morning a week to cook breakfast at a local homeless shelter. The chapter was also involved with tutoring children, and spreading awareness about organ donation.
Beta Eta Deuteron joined with a fraternity to host a Thanksgiving dinner at a retirement center in Palo Alto. With another fraternity, they participated in Garden-a-thon. The Light the Night walk raised money for Leukemia and Lymphoma.

'''Convention Awards:'''

2000 – Scholarship Honorable Mention
2008 – Academic Excellence Honorable Mention

==Highlights of 2011-2019:==

(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:'''

'''Philanthropy:'''

'''Convention Awards:'''

==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:'''

'''Philanthropy:'''

'''Convention Awards:'''

----------------

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 a complete and accurate history of your chapter for future generations to enjoy!