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Beta Lambda

2022-04-01T19:09:06Z

Epsilon Specialist: /* Highlights of 2020 */

{{Infobox Fraternity
|Name= Beta Lambda
|GreekSymbol= BɅ
|Image= [[File:Beta_Lambda.jpg|200px]]
|Founded= {{start date and years ago|1899|04|28}}
|College= [https://www.uillinois.edu/ University of Illinois]
|Location= Urbana, IL
|Homepage= [https://illinois.kappa.org/ Beta Lambda Homepage]
|Media= [https://wiki.kkg.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'''

'''3,336 initiates (as of June 2018)'''

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'''Charter Members:'''

Florence Maria Beck, Georgetta Haven, Cecilia McConnel, Adele Cooper Reed, Lucy Bertha Ely Willcox.

'''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

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==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.
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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.
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==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.)

==Highlights of 2011==

This past year our chapter continued to grow in the area of recruitment. Last year, we initated 50 girls, this year we increased that number and initiated 54. This group of girls consists of a large number of sophomores, and among them one exchange student from London, England. We also had much success with our fall philanthropy. At our fourth annual Kappasta Spaghetti dinner, along with our 4 on 4 volleyball tournament, we managed to donate $5,200 to Habitat for Humanity.

In addition to donating money to the cause, our chapter participated in its first house build with Habitat for Humanity last spring. This was an incredible experience and a lot of fun, and we plan on making the house build an annual event. For the past two years we have several members volunteer to read to the students of Thomas Paine school as part of our Reading is Fundamental philanthropy. Our social calendar was packed this past year with events such as "Kappa Keys Overseas" themed pledge dance, Barn Dance, Semi-Formal, and Impromptu. Aside from social events we also coordinate many successful sisterhood events within the chapter. These include visiting the apple orchard, making cranes for a sister's hospitalized father, and going ice skating.

'''Campus:''' 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.

'''Chapter:''' -We initiated new members in the fall, which makes the Beta Lambda Chapter a total of 181 active members. -Many of our members are part of the James Scholar Program, on the Dean's List, and members of honorary fraternities such as Alpha Kappa Psi, Phi Eta Sigma, and Delta Sigma Pi. -The Beta Lambda Kappas are also involved in a wide variety of student organizations such as club soccer, ROTC, Illini Cheerleading, the Illini Dance Team, Illinettes, Illini Pride, Business Council, Identity Irish Dance Troupe, Greek Intervarsity, and many more. -Many of our members are also involved in service and volunteer work such as tutoring, and being involved with special needs children and adults in the neighborhood.

We have faced two major challenges the past year. First, we have had trouble making sure we were financially stable. Coming into the year, Beta Lambda faced a financial debt that we struggled to climb out. Many officers were unaware of limits to their budgets. We have fixed this problem by learning to effectively budget and save our money. Also, we faced another challenge in the area of academics. Last year, Kappa was ranked 9th out of 25 sororities and we were above the average GPA of sororities. However, after last fall we have dropped to 13th. This upcoming semester we plan to increase our focus on academic work and, thus, strengthen our GPA.

==Highlights of 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 participated 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 Lambda chapter not only participate in our own philanthropy but in other Fraternity's and Sorority's philanthropies as well! In November of 2012 we initiated 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 2013==

From January 1st, 2013 through December 31, 2013, our chapter, Beta Lambda, has improved on our academic average GPA. Last Spring 2013 semester, it was 3.4147 but during Fall of 2013 it was 3.4434. The ladies in Beta Lambda Chapter are slowly increasing the average GPA. To keep on increasing the GPA, our academic chair is keeping up with all the study files so everyone can share their notes and support each other. Beta Lambda has participated in Kappa Kappa Gamma’s Leadership Academy.

For our philanthropy involvement, we are continuing on Kappasta and Kappatat. One of the ladies in our chapter is involved in Panhellenic Council as Recruitment Board. All the ladies are very excited for her and will be supporting her. The goal of our chapter is to get involved in our chapter committee meetings more.

For our formal chapter, we started following a new rule to make our chapter more formal by not having cell phone during our chapter. We started having more committees’ meetings after chapter to get everyone’s opinion on our weaknesses and strengths.

==Highlights of 2014==

This past year our chapter had many accomplishments and exciting news. We initiated 52 women in the fall which was the result of a very successful recruitment. This group of women consisted of not only freshmen, but some sophomores and juniors as well, including an exchange student from England. Our philanthropy was also a huge success in 2014. This was the 7th year that we hosted a Kappasta spaghetti dinner at the chapter house to raise money for the University of Illinois campus chapter of Habitat for Humanity. We also hosted our annual volleyball tournament, Kappatat, in order to also raise money for Habitat for Humanity. In addition to these two events, our women continued on the tradition of monthly school reading visits in order to support Reading is Fundamental at multiple elementary schools. A few women of our chapter also participated on a Greek Serve spring break service trip in New Orleans. Social events were also very successful this past year. Our social calendar consisted of events such as a decades themed Pledge Dance, Barn Dance, Formal, Semi-Formal, and Impromptu. Adding on to these events, we also had sisterhood events such as Salsa dancing lessons, facials, a trip to the local apple orchard, scrapbooking, ice-skating, and a pajama party. More exciting news was that our president, Mallory Miller, won "Outstanding President" award at the university's Greek Oscars. Finally, in the fall we raised our GPA to 3.46, putting us at 8th place out of 26 sororities. Academics are always something that we work to improve on, so this was very exciting as we will continue to try to advance even further in the next year.

Our campus had a fall enrollment of 32,281 undergraduate students. About 23% of the undergraduate students on our campus are involved in Greek life. The most recent of changes to our chapter in 2014 would be the initiation of the fall pledge class consisting of 52 women, making our chapter total to be 193 members. Many women in our chapter this past year were a part of the James Scholar Honors Program, on the Dean's List, and members of honorary fraternities. The women of Beta Lambda are also involved in many clubs and activities on campus, including the Illinettes and Business Council. This past year our women have also taken pride in volunteering for local hospitals and as tutors.

Our chapter holds chapter meetings at our chapter house located in Urbana, Illinois. Our house is an owned facility that is actually a National Historic Landmark. The women of Kappa Kappa Gamma have resided in our current house since 1928. Each sister is required to live in the house for at least a year which gives members the opportunity to live together and share an even greater bond. Our house has a maximum capacity of 62 women. In the past, we have also owned a house also in Urbana, Illinois.

==Highlights of 2015==
This past year our chapter had many accomplishments and exciting news. We initiated 50 women in the fall which was the result of a very successful recruitment. This group of women consisted of not only freshmen, but some sophomores as well. Our philanthropy was also a huge success in 2014. This was the 8th year that we hosted a Kappasta spaghetti dinner at the chapter house to raise money for the University of Illinois campus chapter of Habitat for Humanity. We also hosted our annual volleyball tournament, Kappatat, in order to also raise money for Habitat for Humanity. In addition to these two events, our women continued on the tradition of monthly school reading visits in order to support Reading is Fundamental at multiple elementary schools. A few women of our chapter also participated on a Greek Serve spring break service trip in New Orleans. Social events were also very successful this past year. Our social calendar consisted of events such as a themed Pledge Dance, Barn Dance, Formal, Semi-Formal, and Impromptu. Adding on to these events, we also had sisterhood events such as a dinner swap with Alpha Gamma Delta, a trip to the local apple orchard, pumpkin carving, ice-skating, and a movie night. Finally, in the fall we raised our GPA to 3.487. Academics are always something that we work to improve on, so this was very exciting, as we will continue to try to advance even further in the next year.

Our campus had a fall enrollment of 32,878 undergraduate students. About 23% of the undergraduate students on our campus are involved in Greek life. The most recent of changes to our chapter in 2015 would be the initiation of the fall pledge class consisting of 50 women, making our chapter total to be 190 members. Many women in our chapter this past year were a part of the James Scholar Honors Program, on the Dean's List, and members of honorary fraternities. The women of Beta Lambda are also involved in many clubs and activities on campus, including the Illinettes and Business Council. This past year our women have also taken pride in volunteering for local hospitals and as tutors.

Chapter Philanthropy:

What organization(s) has your chapter historically/traditionally raised money for, or donated hours to, in your community?

Habitat for Humanity (in addition to Reading is Fundamental)

Why did your chapter choose this organization(s) to support?

We support Habitat for Humanity because we understand the impact of homelessness and Habitat for Humanity is a world leading in fighting it. This organization also allows us to make a difference right here in the Champaign community.

==Highlights of 2016==

2016 was a very productive year for Beta Lambda, and it was also a very interesting and eventful year on campus and throughout the country. Beta Lambda was on a Warning of Probation letter from Fraternity Headquarters, and the new chapter council implemented many strategic changes and plans in order to get our chapter back on track. Some of our chapter’s goals for this year were to enforce stricter risk management policies, put more emphasis on academic excellence, and to improve communication with our advisers and directors. We also worked on perfecting the recruitment and initiation processes.

Beta Lambda also participated in many fun social and service events. In the winter, we held our traditional Kappa Krush dance, where many girls dressed up and celebrated Valentine’s Day with a date or with friends. We also participated in Continuous Open Bidding to welcome 5 new girls to our chapter, and they were initiated on April 16th. On April 23rd, along with Alpha Gamma Delta, our chapter hosted a blood drive to support the local blood bank in Champaign. On May 2nd, we held Kappaccino, selling coffee and baked goods on the Quad to raise money for the Panhellenic philanthropy, Circle of Sisterhood. After fall recruitment, we welcomed a large new member class of 59 girls, who were later initiated on October 29th. On October 8th we held our annual volleyball philanthropy, Kappatat, to raise money to support Habitat for Humanity. Shortly after, we hosted our annual pasta dinner, Kappasta with Theta Xi at their chapter house, and between the two events, we raised over $10,000 for Habitat for Humanity. On October 21st, we hosted a Barn Dance at Farm Lake, and many Kappa’s enjoyed their favorite event of the semester while dancing the night away with their friends, dates, and sisters.
In the United States this year, we had a very memorable Presidential campaign and election, with Donald Trump winning a tight race against Hillary Clinton. Also in November, many Kappas from the Chicago area also enjoyed watching the Chicago Cubs beat the Cleveland Indians to win the World Series for the first time since 1908.

This fall, Phi Mu was colonized on our campus, and Beta Lambda is making it a goal for the upcoming semesters to plan sisterhood events with them to make them feel welcome at U of I. Also on campus in 2016, one major event was that former Chicago Bears coach, Lovie Smith, was hired as the new football coach to bring the Fighting Illini to victory come football season. In 2016, our chapter was very involved in the campus community, with many members participating in clubs and organizations, while maintaining their grades and working to improve our chapter's overall GPA.

Our main philanthropies are Habitat for Humanity, Reading is Fundamental, and Circle of Sisterhoo. We support these organizations because our chapter has continuously raised money for them for the past several years. With Habitat for Humanity, we have seen first-hand the impact our efforts make by going on "house-builds" where we actually participate in building homes for people that are struggling to make ends meet in our community. Reading is Fundamental has also been one of the organizations we participate in because when we donate books and read to children here in Champaign- Urbana, we get to see the reactions of the children and understand why our help is so important.

==Highlights of the 2017:==
Throughout the year of 2017, the members of Beta Lambda have continued to improve and strengthen our chapter. Beta Lambda was placed on a Warning of Probation for the year of 2017 by Fraternity Headquarters. During the second year of the Warning of Probation, the new chapter council members carried on the progress made by the last chapter council, while steadily advancing Beta Lambda through major improvements throughout the year. For example, we implemented using the Gin System throughout the whole chapter, began using parliamentary procedure during chapter meetings, and sustained open communication with advisers. We also improved our chapter GPA to 3.453 which is above the all sorority GPA of 3.446.

During the year, Beta Lambda also partook in various social and philanthropic events across campus. On February 11th, we indulged in one of our favorite Kappa events, Kappa Krush. The Beta Lambda members invited their dates and friends to dance and have an unforgettable night. On April 24th, we hosted our annual Kappaccino event where we sold coffee and pastries on the Quad. All the profits raised throughout the event were donated to the Circle of Sisterhood. Beta Lambda then congratulated all of its graduating seniors on May 13th as they moved on to the next chapter in their lives.

We then kicked off the 2017 school year with work week the week of August 21st in order to prepare for formal recruitment. Once recruitment was complete, we welcomed home our 53 new members on September 18th with our theme of New Bids on the Block. On October 8th we held our annual Kappasta dinner at the Beta Lambda chapter house where we fed delicious pasta to people from all across campus. On October 15th, we held our volleyball tournament, Kappatat, where fraternities on campus participated in our philanthropy. All proceeds raised from both Kappasta and Kappatat were used in order to support our chapter’s philanthropy, Habitat for Humanity. In total we raised a whopping $7,754 to donate to help build homes in the Champaign-Urbana community for families in need. On October 4th, we initiated 53 women to become our new member class of Kappa Kappa Gamma. Throughout the year our chapter collects books from our members to donate to students in need. This supports our national philanthropy, Reading is Fundamental. On November 1st, one of our members, Ashely Lenzini, read and donated the books we had collected to her first grade class at a school located in Danville, Illinois. All the kids loved the books Beta Lambda donated and were so thankful for the new stories they were able to bring home. We then rounded out the year with a new tradition at the Beta Lambda chapter with our first ever Sapphire Ball on December 7th. Friends and dates joined the Kappas for one last final hoorah before finals began on December 15th.

== Highlights of 2018 ==

2018 was a phenomenal year for the Beta Lambda chapter. The chapter was removed from Warning of Probation, but the Chapter Council committed themselves to uphold the progress the chapter has made thus far and continue to work on improving ritual as was as other aspects of our fraternity. Members were very involved in many philanthropic events. We were proud to raise our all-house GPA to reach a 3.553 in the Spring 2018 semester.

During the fall semester, we hosted our annual Kappatat Volleyball Tournament and Kappasta dinner where we raised money for our philanthropy, Habitat for Humanity. Along with donating money, members donated their time to our philanthropy. For the first time in years, members helped to actually build a house for a family in need. The chapter collected and donated books to donate to schools in the surrounding areas. Some of the members brought the books to children and read to them. We also participated in IlliniThon Dance Marathon where we raised $4,505 for St. Judes Children's Hospital. These members danced throughout the night to help raise money for the kids. In the spring, we held Kappacino on the quad. This Circle of Sisterhood fundraiser helps to raise money by selling coffee and small pastries to other students on the campuses quad.

The Chapter was super excited to send some of our members to Illinois State University on December 1st. We initiated the brand new charter chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma. It was a great opportunity to see the installation of the Theta Beta Chapter at ISU. Our chapter along with Illinois Wesleyan helped to successfully perform the installation initiation.

The University of Illinois Women's Volleyball team reaches the NCAA Final Four. Two famous restaurants on campus closed down, the Clysbourne and Firehaus. President Obama gave a speech on campus regarding the state of our democracy. T-Pain performed the Spring Jam's free concert on the quad.

The Chapter was able to indulge in some of our favorite events including the Kappa Krush dance, Semi-Formal dance, and Barn Dances. For this first time, our chapter created a family tree event. This sisterhood event invited all pledge-families to create a scrapbook showcasing their whole family. Hopefully future classes will keep the tradition going and continue to add to their family tree book. We held a glass painting event for Mom's weekend and a tailgate cookout for the fathers on dad's weekend. We had a wonderful recruitment and bid day with a Kappa Kamouflage / army theme.

==Highlights of 2019==

The chapter was a part of the pilot officer structure trial where we were one of the first chapters trying it out, along with the rest of the Epsilon District. For our philanthropy, we hosted Kappatat & Kappasta (Habitat for Humanity - $6,000), Kappa Kisses (RIF & Illini Service Dogs - $1,300), Kappachinno (Circle of Sisterhood - $755), and participated in Illinithon (St. Jude's - $9,000). In total, our chapter raised $17,055 to benefit various organizations and charities. Our chapter won Month of the Scholar and the Panhellenic Book Drive. Alumnae came back to the house to celebrate their 50t h anniversary with a pinning ceremony.
Describe the recent changes on campus and describe the chapter’s overall nature.
The Illini football team won enough games to be eligible for a bowl game! Lil Yachty performed at the Spring Jam's free concert on the quad.
Chapter Philanthropy
Our chapter supports Habitat for Humanity, because Beta Lambda chapter believes that Habitat for Humanity does incredible charity work by providing for families in need. We hosted our annual volleyball tournament, Kappatat, to raise money for the organization.

For Founders Day, our chapter did the Founders Day ceremony at chapter that talks about each of the founders. We also ordered a huge cake at dinner to celebrate.
Our chapter got to see the Minnie Stewart van to kick off the celebrations of our 150th anniversary. In addition, we plan to send members to convention next year.

==Highlights of 2020==

"Chapter Summary
This year started out great for the Beta Lambda chapter. We worked with one of your philanthropy organizations (Habitat For Humanity) to help build a house in campaign. We attended study parties at the house, and participated in other sisterhood events ice skating and bachelor watch parties at the chapter house. 2 new members joined our chapter. Sadly, our semester got cut short due to COVID 19 and we had to finish our last 8 weeks of classes online. During those last 8 weeks, we were able to initiate our 2 new members during Kappa’s first ever zoom initiation. We returned to school in the fall due to COVID, but our semester looked a little different. We held recruitment over zoom and were able to initiate 43 new member over zoom. Bid day looked very different as well but we made sure everyone was staying safe with masks and social distancing! We were not able experience this semester like our others, but we were able to have one sisterhood event outdoors at Curtis Apple Orchard.

We chose Habitat For Humanity as a philanthropy this year because we are able support the local chapter of H4H in Champaign. We chose Reading is Fundamental because it gives book to underprivileged kids to help give them resources that they would not have otherwise.

We implemented a social media awareness campaign this year to promote diversity, equity and inclusion. We had a virtual Founders Day celebration over zoom during a chapter meeting. We read the Founders Day script and promoted Founders Day on social media as well.

[[File:Betalambda.jpg|thumb|sisters]]

--Highlights of 2021--

This year we were still actively in the pandemic and under strict quarantine guidelines. Our sisters still managed to find safe and fun ways to stay involved. In the Spring, we had virtual study hours, virtual sisterhood events (including a fun Kahoot competition to raise money for our philanthropies), and all “normal” chapter activities taking place over zoom. We implemented the first ever “Key Week” in order to still fundraise for our philanthropies since we could not be in-person. In the Spring, we recruited and initiated 1 new member! In the Fall, our university finally began to move towards our new-normal. For the first time in over a year we were finally able to begin to be in person again. With certain precautions in place, we took part in a hybrid recruitment and were able to safely have an in person bid-day! We were also able to initiate 38 new members in an in-person initiation!

The local philanthropy Beta Lambda supports is Habitat for Humanity. We appreciate the incredible work they are able to do for the families in need in our local community. Our chapter supported Kappa’s philanthropy by hosting a variety of events. We hosted a virtual Key Week and had fundraisers at local restaurants around campus! We are excited to begin our fun in-person events in the coming year.

The Beta Lambda Chapter has done a lot of things to add support for Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion. In the spring, we had a DEI Program and we began doing weekly wellness letters that focused on a new topic each week to not only better our members but to further our training on lots of DEI topics. With the interest into these letters the executive board was able to begin adding a DEI officer. In the fall, we added this position to the official slate.

In the spring semester, we remained having all of our events virtually to remain within our local and university guidelines. It was hard on our sisters as we desperately wanted things to go back to normal so we could see each other. We recruited and initiated 1 new member virtually. Our sisters worked hard to find creative ways to meet virtually and stay engaged, we hosted study hours over zoom, took a yoga class over zoom, etc. Moving into the fall semester our University and Panhellenic board made requirement and precaution changes that left us feeling safe enough to begin working towards being back in person. We were able to hold Formal Recruitment in a hybrid set up. All other chapter events were able to be held in person. Most excitingly we initiated 38 girls in person!

Upsilon

2022-01-03T22:00:14Z

Epsilon Specialist: /* Highlights of 2020 */

{{Infobox Fraternity
|Name= Upsilon
|GreekSymbol= ϓ
|Image= [[File:Upsilon.jpg|200px]]
|Founded= {{start date and years ago|1882|04|18}}
|College= [https://www.northwestern.edu/ Northwestern University]
|Location= Evanston, IL
|Homepage= [https://northwestern.kappa.org/ Upsilon Homepage]
|Media= [https://wiki.kkg.org/index.php?title=Category:Upsilon Media related to Upsilon Chapter]
}}

<table><tr><td>

'''Northwestern University established in 1851, Evanston, Illinois'''

'''Founded April 18, 1882 - 5 charter members'''

'''3,303 initiates (as of June 2018)'''

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'''Charter members:'''

Anna M. Boyle, Grace Little, Minnie Louise Scott, Katharine Lucinda Sharp, Lucy Katharine Wood.

'''Fraternity Council Officers:'''

Katherine Lucinda Sharp, Charter member of Upsilon, initiated in 1882; as the first charter member of Upsilon to graduate, Kate received a diamond badge from the chapter. This badge would become the official badge of the President after Kate’s death. It was used until 2000 then retired to Fraternity Headquarters. Elected sixth Grand President 1894 – 1896; the force behind the charter granted in 1899 to Beta Lambda, Illinois. Known as a pioneer in library science; Founded and Directed the Library of the University of Illinois

Carla Sergeant Fisk, Grand Secretary 1896 – 1900, resigned 4/1900; Sought and gained approval for her Sigma-within-the-Delta design at the 1894 convention. The design would become the pledge pin, now known as the new member pin.

Sarah Harris Rowe, Grand President 1920 – 1922; Grand Vice President 1914 – 1920; Province President 1924 – 1925; Registrar and Dean of Women at the School of Speech Communication at Northwestern

'''Fraternity Loyalty Award Recipients:'''

Mary Agnes Graham Roberts (Gray), 1976, Convention Chairman 1972 – 1982, Field Secretary 1945-1947

'''Alumnae Achievement Award recipients:'''

Margaret Dickson Falley, 1970, American genealogist expert and author of Irish and Scotch-Irish Ancestral Research: A Guide to the Genealogical Records, Methods and Sources in Ireland; Elizabeth Baumann Cook, 1984, Expert in building hospital volunteer programs; Julia “Judy” Ade Levering, 2002, First female president of the U.S. Tennis Association; seniors’ tennis championship finalist, Virginia "Ginni" Nicosia Rometty, 2016, business; Punch Hutton, 2016, Deputy Editor of Vanity Fair

'''Additional Outstanding Upsilon Alumnae'''

Betty Robinson Schwartz, Olympic gold & silver medalist; Betty Robinson was the first woman to win a track event in an Olympic Games capturing the 100 meters at the 1928 Olympics; silver medalist as a member of the 4x100m relay in 1928 Olympics; gold medalist on the 4x100m relay at the 1936 Olympics; member of the Track & Field Hall of Fame; the first woman to receive a varsity "N" from Northwestern.

Candy Kubiak, Epsilon Province Representative to the Fraternity’s Undergraduate Council

Nancy Tyra-Lukens, Mayor of Eden Prairie, Minnesota 2014 – 2002; City Council Member 1994 – 2001; Municipal Legislative Commission Board of Directors; 2010 Hennepin County, Minnesota Capital Budgeting Task Force; the Suburban Transit Association, the Southwest Transit Commission and the Family Housing Fund; and President of the Eden Prairie Foundation.

Mary Lisbeth Bartlett Backes, Acting Coach, Professional Actress on Broadway, film, television and at regional theaters across the USA; Lisbeth has been nominated for and won several film and theater acting awards. She has taught acting and audition workshops at undergraduate theater programs, graduate conservatory acting programs and professional theater schools, including Temple University, Northwestern, Brandeis, University of the Arts, Drexel, the Wilma, and many others. Lisbeth made her professional New York and Broadway debuts simultaneously as Irene in Sir Ronald Harwood’s award-winning backstage drama, The Dresser. Her other Broadway credits include Denise Apcar in Emily Mann’s docudrama, Execution of Justice; and “The Girl” in William Saroyan’s The Cave Dwellers. Her feature films include Rocket Science, Amadeus, Saint Christopher, Suspect and many others. Her television credits include appearances on daytime dramas and a variety of television series.

Judith Coggeshall Toth, elected a Maryland State Representative

Sharon Spence Lieb, Television writer, producer and professor of master’s level courses in travel writing. For more than 20 years, Spence Lieb has been a travel writer, mentoring her students and enabling them to become professional journalists and authors. In 2011 Spence Lieb took first-place prize for Best Online Consumer-Oriented Travel Article for her Jetset Extra article “Looking for Captain Cook: Penguins, Icebergs, and a World Famous Explorer.” Awarded by the Atlantic-Caribbean Chapter of the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW). Spence Lieb also won two other first place awards in two categories – Best Newspaper Article Foreign Travel and Best Magazine Article Foreign Travel – for stories which appeared in The Moultrie News Newspaper of Mount Pleasant, SC and Journeys West Magazine of Vancouver, British Columbia. In addition, she won a third place award for Best Self-Illustrated article titled “The Pursuit of Happiness in Cancun,” which also appeared in The Moultrie News.

Donna Cousins Vos, Novelist and founding editor of Career World Magazine; Cousins’ byline has appeared in the Geneva Courier, The Singapore American newspaper, Orientations, and The Asia Magazine, among others. Her short stories have appeared in the literary journal Peregrine and an anthology, Take Two, They’re Small. Her debut novel, Landscape, won first place in the 2005 Midwest Independent Publishers Association Book Awards, honorable mention in Writer’s Digest International Self-Published Book Awards, and honorable mention in ForeWord Magazine’s Book of the Year Awards. Waiting for Bones, her second novel was published in 2011.
Virginia Nicosia Rometty, Senior Vice President IBM Global Business Services. Nicosia Rometty was named among Fortune Magazine’s “50 Most Powerful Women in Business” in 2005, 2006 and 2007.

Laura Forbes Carlin, and Alison Forbes, Tulane — Sisters, writers, and co-founders of Inspired Everyday Living. Together they are co-authors of The Peaceful Nursery: Preparing a Home for Your Baby, published in 2006 by Random House, and two eGuides Love at Home: The Single Girl’s Guide to Feng Shui and Life Design and Laura and Alison’s What You Will Need for a Healthy, Green Baby Nursery. The duo has contributed to magazines and websites including Natural Home, YogiTimes, Intent.com, and ClubMom.com and has been featured in publications that include The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Chicago Tribune, Traditional Home, C Magazine, Angeleno, ePregnancy, LA Parent, Daily Candy, and The Hollywood Reporter as well as appeared on radio and television. Over the years, the pair has also consulted with clients from New York to LA.

Sarah Partridge, Actress and jazz vocalist; head of Jazz Explorers, a children’s program bringing jazz and improvisation into elementary schools. Partridge appeared in the 1983 American teen comedy-drama film Risky Business. Throughout the late eighties and early nineties, Partridge could be seen guest starring in many TV series, sitcoms and soap operas. Debut CD, I’ll Be Easy To Find, received excellent reviews in Billboard magazine. Her second CD Blame It On My Youth was released in 2004.

Dina Roth Port, Award-winning freelance writer, journalist, and author. Her book, Previvors: Facing the Breast Cancer Gene and Making Life-Changing Decisions, was published by Penguin in October 2010. A former health editor at Glamour magazine and editor at Parenting magazine, Roth Port’s writing has appeared in national publications such as Glamour, Self, Parenting, The Huffington Post, Cosmopolitan, Natural Health, Fitness, Martha Stewart Weddings, and Prevention.
The Barta sisters, Lexi , Romi and Marni all of Upsilon founded their nonprofit organization, Kid Flicks in 2002. The Barta sisters have received numerous awards for their work. In 2011, the sisters received the Harlequin More Than Words Award, honoring ordinary women for their extraordinary commitment to women and the causes dearest to them.

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

==The Early Years==

“In 1882 there was at Northwestern only one women’s fraternity, Alpha Phi. During the winter, several freshmen conceived the idea of starting a chapter of a rival fraternity, and the result was Upsilon Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma.” So wrote an early Upsilon historian. One of those freshmen, Anna Boyle Brown, learned of fraternities through her brother, a Butler graduate, and together they wrote Kappa’s Grand President Tade Hartsuff (Kuhns), M—Butler, a good friend of Clarence Boyle, about forming a chapter at Northwestern.

The President wrote back: the Fraternity would be glad to enter Northwestern and she was satisfied with Anna’s selection of members. The oath of secrecy was forwarded and on its return, the constitution was sent. On the evening of April 18, 1882, Anna read the constitution and initiation ceremony to her chosen four and administered the oath of secrecy. The bylaws of Mu Chapter were read and taken as a model for Upsilon. Within a month, four more girls were initiated.

By the end of the first decade, membership was reported as 11 actives and 11 pledges. Meetings, which first took the form of literary and social gatherings, were held in private home and later on in “Upsilon Hall,” a rented space over a local drugstore. “At homes and receptions were held, there was an annual spring party, and the first alumnae reunion took place during the 13th Biennial Convention in 1896, over which Katharine Sharp, Upsilon charter member, presided as Grand President. Miss Sharp held two doctorates and a law degree.

In 1897, chapter meetings were held weekly in Woman’s Hall on campus. Upsilon member Carla Sargent (Fisk) was Grand Secretary 1896-1900 (she resigned in 4/1900), and during this time she designed the Sigma in Delta, which later became the pledge pin.

==Turn of the Century==

Minutes from the turn of the century are full of participation in campus activities, selection for academic and social honors, annual dances and parties, and even trips to Urbana, Illinois, for the Northwestern–Illinois football game.

In those days of close ties and short distances, alumnae kept in touch. Time after time, alumnae took part in Initiation and other chapter functions, and by 1904 there is mention of affairs planned for the chapter by the alumnae association. Nearby Conventions were enthusiastically attended and in 1906, Upsilon was represented by 19 actives and alumnae at the Madison, Wisconsin, General Convention. Places prominent today in Evanston social life were mentioned in the early years of the 20th century: chapter luncheons at Marshall Fields’, senior farewells at Ravinia, parties at the Kenilworth Club, and a house party at Macatawa, Michigan. It took a whole page of the minute’s book to record all the honors and chapter activities of 1906, and each marriage is duly registered along with an occasional athletic score.

There were no sorority houses in 1908. There was just a Kappa room on the top floor of the old Willard Hall where actives met every Monday evening. Sarah Rowe (Kanaga) and her sisters were in the Upsilon chapter and lived in Evanston, so their home became the Kappa annex, with their father the credit manager and sponsor of the chapter.

In 1912 it was Upsilon’s turn to be hostess chapter. The Estes Park, Colorado convention in 1914 opened wider horizons for Sarah and led to the eight years she would serve as a member of the Grand Council. She became the first Executive Secretary, sans salary, sans central office, with all files and records in her apartment. The central office became a reality during her term as president. (Taken from The Key, Summer 1974, Vol. 91 No.2)

==World War I Years==

During 1914-1918, World War I had an effect on chapter activities. The minutes record: a “clothing for Belgian children” drive, a “less expensive party so that money could be donated to worthy causes,” … War Bond drives, and a donation to the Prisoners of War Fund … “Nancy Knight (Slight) is head of the Red Cross Chapter of the University. Here many of us spend our leisure hours and find it quite worthwhile.” However, a semi-normal campus life is indicated, with rushing parties, football games and summer house parties. After the Armistice in the fall of 1918, the influenza epidemic ground activities to a standstill. There were severe restrictions on campuses across the country for many weeks.

Another Upsilon member, Sarah Harris Rowe, began her career with the Fraternity Council when she was elected the first Grand Vice President, charged with the supervision of alumna interests in 1914. Sarah also served as Alumna Editor of The Key. She was directly responsible for the Bas-Meudon post-war Kappa project through her correspondence with Dorothy Canfield Fisher, Ohio State, who was living in France during World War I. Sarah was elected Grand President at the Golden Jubilee Convention serving during 1920-1922. She recommended the establishment of Kappa’s first Central Office with a paid Executive Secretary.

'''Housing'''

Records of 1921 say that “future generations living in the house will find it hard to realize the thrill we all had when the battle to be allowed to build houses was at last won, and the enthusiasm with which we undertook money-raising activities.” The next years were full of this effort, led by Isabel Drew Fowler, and in September 1927, the present chapter house, 1871 Orrington Avenue, was occupied by 27 girls. Mrs. Fowler, lifetime contributor to Northwestern, to Kappa, and to her community, died in 1973 at the age of 100.

The 1930s saw much campus participation, increasing success in academics and the beginnings of large chapters with pledge classes of 30. Alpha Chapter at Monmouth was reestablished under the direction of Upsilon member Joyce Snider (Heaton) who left Northwestern to head up the colonization.

==World War II Years==

World War II found most girls enrolled in defense courses. Campus events were canceled, nearby military men were entertained, and funds were raised for War Bond purchases. Shortage of materials wiped out floats, decorations and campus theatricals. Nurses’ aid duty was performed at Evanston Hospital, USO volunteer staffs were manned and blood banks were supplied.
After the war, life returned to normal.

Students at Northwestern began the tradition of Mayfete, a time when students would celebrate the "renunciation of the May Queen of the temporal world for a spiritual one," according to a 1951 history of the event. Although little is known about the early days, May Day, was originally a celebration of the women of Northwestern. The crowning of the May Queen was the central event, and the pomp included a Maypole dance and cotillion.

The next years were full of success for Upsilon; the chapters on campus grew larger and their activities more diverse. By 1953, chapter elections were held by class caucus. By 1964, with a pledge class of 32 and 78 in the active chapter, a new addition allowed 60 girls to live in the house.

==Changing Times==

The late 1960s and early 1970s were characterized by comparatively abrupt and progressive change. The Greek system at Northwestern was under great pressure, its very existence in question. By 1970, only four sororities, Kappa included, were attaining pledge quota, and four other relinquished their charters. The over two-thirds of undergraduate women who had been sorority members diminished to less than one-third in the early 1970s. Local autonomy, the self-governing of each living unit, became the biggest issue at Northwestern, as the university withdrew all controls in university-owned housing. In addition, the university requested all Greek-letter organizations to become fully self-governing, independent of alumnae and/or national control. Furthermore, each organization was asked to state in writing that no discrimination practices concerning race, color or creed were employed in membership selection. With the aid of the Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity Council, Upsilon Chapter was able to satisfy each university request.

Lifestyles within the chapter house were naturally affected by the many changes witnessed throughout the campus. Complete internal harmony was not always possible as each active evaluated the relative meaningfulness of her fraternity affiliation. Fortunately, Upsilon remained strong, emerging with an honorable mention for chapter-Advisory Board relations in 1968, a best all-around chapter award at Province Meeting in 1969, and a scholarship award at the 1970 Centennial Convention.

Chapter meeting minutes from the 1970s show Upsilon active and popular. One Registrar’s note stated it well: “Upsilon is on the UP this year.” Once again, there was talk of campus participation for the fun of it. However, academic pressures of Northwestern continued to make scholarship a prime concern of the chapter. Upsilon’s chapter GPA was a 3.5 for several years.
---------------------------------
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==

In February 1970 William Kunstler, defense lawyer for the Chicago Seven on trial for disruption during the 1968 Democratic Convention, was invited to speak on campus by the Northwestern Faculty Action Committee. After the lecture, a crowd went on a rampage in downtown Evanston, smashing windows and causing several thousands of dollars in damage.

Violence broke out April 27, 1970, when an arson fire caused extensive damage to the linguistics building. The Traffic Institute building at Hinman and Clark was burned down by arsonists. A group of Students for a Democratic Society (SDS) protestors tore up the NROTC offices in Lunt Hall.

Chancellor Miller closed Rebecca Crown Center May 6 as a symbol of Northwestern's participation in the national protest and then ordered all classes cancelled for the rest of the week.
A second rally was held May 8 by students who organized a huge gathering that night at Dyche Stadium. The National Guard was called in as a precaution. A crowd of approximately 7,000 people attended the peaceful rally.

Classes resumed on May 13 and the campus enjoyed two years of relative quiet.
The undergraduates at Northwestern have a number of traditions including Painting the Rock (originally a fountain donated by the Class of 1902) as a way to advertise, for example, campus organizations, events in Greek life, student groups, and university-wide events. Upsilon Chapter composite pictures during the 70s were taken outdoors. The individuality of the members of this chapter has deep roots. No two women posed the same way and each member showed her own unique style through her clothing and attitude in the picture.

Dillo Day, an annual festival at Northwestern University took place each year on the last Saturday of May. Begun in 1972 when Northwestern students from Texas held a small celebration in honor of the armadillo, and organized by the Mayfest student group, the day was characterized by an all-day music festival and special events on the Northwestern Lakefill, as well as a spirit of celebration.

70% of freshmen at Northwestern participate in Rush Week activities. Over 33% of the class pledges; a 7% increase from 1973. Active Anne Brunk was selected Miss Lake Geneva 1974, was a finalist in the 1974 Miss Wisconsin Pageant, participated in Pom Poms and on the University Gymnastics team.

Scholastic Honoraries included: Phi Beta Kappa; campus photographer; Mortar Board (1974-75).
At the 1975 Epsilon Province meeting Upsilon chapter was honored with the Jane Rikkers Award for unity and loyalty. Actives were leaders of the Northwestern Panhellenic Council.
Nine actives performed with the Upsilon Pickers performing at campus activities as well as local clubs and conventions.

Blistered feet became a badge of honor on the Evanston campus since February 1975, the year Dance Marathon, one of the largest student-run philanthropies in the country was launched at Bloomquist Memorial Gymnasium at Northwestern. The first Dance Marathon which lasted a grueling 52 hours, raised $9,105 for the American Epilepsy Foundation and the National Organization for Retarded Citizens. In 1976, the second Dance Marathon was held at Patten Gymnasium and dance time was decreased to 26 hours. The event raised $9,573 that was divided among the same two charities.

The changing culture and economic hard times in Evanston, where Northwestern is located, led the City Council in 1972 to approve the sale of liquor by an 11 to 8 margin, with one abstention. Supporters said liquor licenses would help businesses in the central business district especially hotels and restaurants.

Northwestern followed the trend in 1975, filing a lawsuit in Cook County Circuit Court. It asked the court to determine that the local option law impliedly repealed the charter ban on alcohol sales within four miles of the campus. The impetus for the legal action came from students after the State of Illinois allowed the sale of beer and wine to persons 19 years old. Students wanted to have a "rathskeller" in Norris University Center.

The University won its case, applied for a liquor license from Evanston and began serving liquor on campus, ending the ban on alcohol sales that had survived more than 120 years.
In 1976 a member of Upsilon participated in the study aboard program at the University of Barcelona, Spain; an active was chosen Navy Ball Empress Candidate; another was one of 10 finalists for the 1975 College All-Star Queen and served as an intern in Washington DC; two actives were on the Pom Pom Squad; and three led the Northwestern University spirit on the cheerleading squad.

An Upsilon active was selected secretary-treasurer for the Panhellenic Council. Another active was elected to Phi Beta (national professional fraternity for women in music and speech) and then elected vice president based on her scholarship, leadership and character.

Active, Wendy Gajewski was a singer, actress and pianist who performed all over the country working with well-known celebrities Caesar Romero, John Davidson and David Fry. Ms. Gajewski was the principle soloist and in the choral ensemble in the 1975 and 1976 Waa-Mu shows. She spent her summer working at the newly opened Marriot Great America Theme Park in the Great America Stage Show in Illinois.

==Highlights of the 1980s==

Picture scrapbooking became the trend at the Upsilon chapter in 1984-1984. From 1985 through 1995 scrapbooks of both photographs and impressive artwork, writings and newspaper clippings reflected the individuality of the talented women in the chapter.

Seven Upsilon Kappas headed to Bloomington, Illinois for the 29th Biennial Epsilon Province meeting in April, 1987. The meeting’s theme was “Excellence…The Essence of Kappa.” Members attended workshops on standards, rush, and active-alumni relations. The chapter received the Mabel McCoy Advisory Board Award at the Epsilon Province Biannual Convention for their philanthropic involvement with Evanston’s soup kitchen.

The 1987-1988 school year was a great one for the Kappas at Northwestern University. The chapter also won the campus May Sing competition with the help of their Delta Tau Delta partners. The women took first place in the Delta Gamma Anchor Splash and received first place during the Sigma Chi Derby Days for raising the most money for Cystic Fibrosis. During the Greek leadership conference, Upsilon was awarded Distinction for Membership. The chapter had also been nominated for the President’s Award.At this time, Northwestern was composed of nearly 7,000 undergraduates with 13 sororities and 26 fraternities.

On September 29, pledge night festivities began as the Upsilon chapter welcomed 38 new pledges. The class would be initiated on January 26, 1987. The house held room for 58 women and the chapter size grew to 120 members.

The 1987 Homecoming theme was “Play It Again Cats.” The Upsilon Kappas partnered with Sigma Nu to build a Victrola with a spinning record as their float for the October 16 parade day. An active dressed as Willie the Wild Cat danced with a costumed Michigan Spartan on the float flanked by chapter members escorting the float through the parade route.

On October 26, the Upsilon actives and pledges joined the North Shore Alumnae for a Founders Day celebration. Alum, Catherine Cutter of Evanston provided her home for the program. The women had the opportunity to mingle, share stories of Kappa days and taste many wonderful treats donated by local alumnae. The program began at 8 p.m. with a dramatic presentation of short skits by an Upsilon alum and her husband as actors. The skits were based upon everyday life situations. The chapter members participated in the evening presentation with performances by “Pickers,” a Kappa rush tradition, and Pledges, who sand “The Pat Song.” After the entertainment, two Fifty-Year pins as well as one Sixty-Year pin were presented to alumnae.
Based on chapter evaluations and officer training, the chapter goal for the year was: We will work to enhance loyalty and caring for Kappa and each other. Six steps were created to help the chapter members achieve their goal: Respect for ritual during chapter and functions; implementing parliamentary procedure during meetings; employ a Kappa-of-the-Week program recognizing individuals within the chapter; emphasize hospitality to all; improve faculty and alumni relations and improved education on Kappa finances.

The chapter members participated in three philanthropies during the year, the Evanston soup kitchen, a Sigma Chi sponsored Halloween party for the Uhlich Children’s Home in Chicago on October 28, 1987 and the all-campus Dance Marathon raising money to fight AIDS.
In May, the chapter held a special ceremony during Senior Week.
The house initiated a Wise Owl award given each week to a Kappa who had shown the most dedication to the house.

Chapter and Individual honors included Alpha Lambda Delta, Phi Eta Sigma, 6th place at the Synchronized Swimming Nationals, Varsity Synchronized Swimming Team, Varsity Track, Mayfest Committee, Associated Student Government Senator, Phone-Anthon Chair for Senior Class Gift Committee and a member of the chapter won an essay contest for her story and received an expense paid trip to France to advise the French government on tourism.

Historically, June, 1987 was a monumental month for the world as President Ronald Reagan gave the people of West Berlin one of the most memorable lines spoken during his presidency. A twelve-foot concrete Berlin Wall stood as a stark symbol of the cold-war between the United States and Soviet Russia. President Reagan challenged General Secretary Gorbachev to tear down the wall. Two years later the East Germans issued a decree signally for the wall to be opened. November 9th, 1989 is considered the date the Berlin Wall fell, but the Wall in its entirety was not torn down immediately. People came to the wall with sledgehammers, hammers and chisels to chip off souvenirs, demolishing lengthy parts of it in the process. The women of the Upsilon chapter raised awareness and money towards those efforts in Berlin.

Upsilon hosted the 30th Province Convention in 1989. Teach For America was founded in 1989 to organize the energy of a generation against educational inequity in the United States. Two members of Upsilon were among its first group of 500 talented young leaders in addressing the problem by committing two years to teach in the United States' highest-need schools. In the coming years, Upsilon would have a steady stream of participants.

==Highlights of the 1990s==

In 1990-1991, Upsilon chapter dealt with women and alcohol abuse which had become a growing concern on college campuses from coast-to-coast. The chapter actively participated in experiments concerning alcohol by teaming up with the Northwestern University Psych Department.
The United States became involved in Desert Storm on January 16, 1991. The women of the Upsilon chapter began efforts to raise money in support of the Gulf War. Many members however were opposed to the war and this raised concerns over the amount of involvement and participation the chapter should provide. By February 27, President Bush declares suspension of offensive combat and lays out conditions for permanent cease-fire.

IFC and Panhellenic Councils at Northwestern University drafted a joint Risk Management Policy in 1993-1994. Prior to this, each council had their own policy, which were often not compatible with each other.

In January 1994, Upsilon pledged 37 women. Officer training was held during the first week of the spring quarter. The chapter held a Rush workshop during New Student Week and the Rush chairs planned a scavenger hunt around campus. The week ended with a chapter retreat to Indiana. During this year’s pledge period the chapter held a Pledge Mom Hunt, Roast and Toast and other fun activities.

Upsilon established an annual philanthropic event called Colorfest, a flag football tournament to raise money to the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Teams paid to participate and local business owners and restaurants sponsored the event. Upsilon women were very involved in sports on the Northwestern campus with one a varsity diver, three women soccer players and two players on the field hockey team. A member was elected chair of the Panhellenic Judiciary Board.
During the 80s attendance was a challenge for the chapter with members missing Rush duties and chapter meetings. Chapter Council worked with the Standards Committee to institute effective police changes to find solutions to these concerns.

The undergraduate student body at Northwestern University had approximately 8,000 in 1995. The campus was made up of seven separate schools: the College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Speech, the Engineering School, the Music School, Medill School of Journalism, and the School of Education and Social Policy. The Upsilon chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma was part of the Panhellenic system consisting of 12 sororities. There were 21 men’s fraternities. Approximately 45% of the student body was involved in the Greek system.

1995 was an amazing year for Upsilon. Upsilon chapter had 130 members. The year began with a very successful Rush culminating with the pledging of 36 incredible young women.
Members were involved with leadership positions on campus ranging from the Dance Marathon and Special Olympics to Northwestern’s Activities and organizational Board and Theater productions.
Three couples were sponsored by the chapter to participate in Northwestern’s Dance Marathon in March helping to contribute more than $300,000 to the Pediatric AIDS Foundation. The women organized the annual flag football philanthropy with proceeds going to the Off-The-Street Club in Chicago, Illinois.

In celebration of 125 years of Kappa Kappa Gamma, the chapter had many special alumnae events. The chapter organized a breakfast at the house for alumnae at Homecoming and sponsored a Kappa tailgate at the Northwestern-Wisconsin football game.

Northwestern football was the feel-good sports story of 1995. The NU Wildcats went to the Rose Bowl for the first time since 1949. Coach Gary Barnett, instilled in his team expectations of victory, watched with the whole country as the Wildcats kicked off the season with a 17-15 upset of Notre Dame in South Bend. In fact, the Chicago Sun-Times called it "the upset of the century." An estimated 50,000 Northwestern fans, including many members of the 1949 team, flocked to California for the New Year's Day game.

The women also held an alumnae-active formal at Galleria Marchetti’s in Chicago, Illinois on November 10. Paired with Sigma Chi fraternity for Homecoming, the team took first place in the float building contest. There were many challenges and goals in 1995 with the main goal dealing with Kappa Cohesion. The challenges and assets of the Upsilon members revolved its very dynamic and independent individuals, always off and running in different directions. By sponsoring many Kappa sisterhood events, such as “Friends” parties (inspired by the popular televison sitcom at the time) with frozen yogurt on Thursday nights, Kappas were given the opportunity to relax together and bond without any outside interference. Movie night for Kappas at the chapter house was another convenient way for the women to get together and become more united. An annual Holiday Party was held at the house in December.

Upsilon women held a retreat for their pledges at the Indiana Dunes. They also sponsored special pledge mom dinners at local restaurants. After Initiation on April 1, a breakfast was held for the new initiates and their families. Two traditional date parties were held during Winter quarter. Spring quarter had one date party and the chapter Formal.

Upsilon took first place in Sigma Chi’s Derby Days competition in May. The annual Kid’s Picnic, an afternoon of games and pizza with children from a local center for underprivileged children took place in May near Lake Michigan.

Individual chapter honors included: Rho Lambda (Greek Honor Society); Mayo Clinic Scholarship; four women made the Dean’s List; Alpha Lambda Delta; Order of Omega; Women’s Varsity Soccer team; Field Hockey team and alternate National Under 21 Team; Jr. Panhellenic Scholarship; Panhellenic Scholarship Citation; Golden Key Honor Society; Economics Honor Society; National Panhellenic Honor Society; Stinky’s Pub cast member and the Most Spirited Panhellenic Delegate Award.

Northwestern had 8,000 students and 11 sororities and 21 fraternities in 1997. The chapter was full with 60 girls living at the house and a total of 120 members.

1997 was a great year for the Upsilon Chapter at Northwestern University. It began with a successful Rush and the pledging of 41 unique and amazing women. The Homecoming theme this year was based on the movie, Men in Black. Upsilon was paired with Sigma Chi and the team took first place in the float competition. The chapter sponsored six couples in Northwestern’s Dance Marathon in March helping to contribute money towards the research on the prevention of brain tumors in children.

In May, for the third straight year the chapter won first place in the Sigma Chi Derby Days competition. The chapter received the Most Improved GPA award. In celebration of Kappa Kappa Gamma’s 126th anniversary the chapter held two special alumnae planned events, one in the spring and one in the fall. Alums were invited to cake and tea at the chapter house. The fall event was organized and held at the home of a local alumna. During both events the women realized the strength of Kappa and the importance of traditions.

The chapter focused of two things during the 1997-1998 school year: officer leadership and a successful Kappa experience. The chapter was confident a more organized and efficient group of officers would lead the other women of Kappa to have a more meaningful experience. It was felt traditions had become too relaxed and not performed as well as they could have been. Steps were taken by the officers to ensure positive change requiring members to attend meetings and learn the official and proper ways to perform rituals. Attitudes improved, participation was up and the year ended on a positive turnaround.

There were many Kappa sponsored events, all intended to create and increase involvement for everyone from Pledges to Seniors. The women accomplished this with activities like the senior formal, Kappa Crunch at Carmen’s Pizzeria, and Pledge Week. After initiation a nice brunch was held for the new initiates and their families. The Upsilon chapter also held the two traditional date parties during the Winter quarter. In the Spring quarter a formal and date party were also organized. During the month of May, the girls hosted a basketball tournament with Phi Sigma to raise money for the Foster Reading Center in Evanston. In the Fall, the chapter became very involved with the Off-The-Street Club in Chicago. The chapter organized a pumpkin carving event for the children at Halloween and a Christmas Tree decorating party in December.

Greek leaders on the Northwestern campus in 19998-1999 drafted and approved the "Mission of the Northwestern University Greek Community" during their annual Greek Leadership Retreat at Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. The mission statement read: We commit to cultivating a unified Greek community of diverse individuals that fosters personal excellence, scholastic achievement, social enrichment, and civic responsibility. We strive to be an exemplar of sisterhood and brotherhood for the Northwestern University community and beyond.

An incredibly successful Homecoming weekend was held October 16 -18, 1998. Upsilon paired with Sigma Chi to take second place for their sock hop-on-wheels float celebrating, These Are the Days. The float (finished in under a week) was an eight-foot towering replica of a Wurlitzer jukebox, equipped with Northwestern’s “Ns” on each side of the panels along with purple pride. Active Emily Rebholz created 12 poodle-skirts with “Ns” replacing the poodle for the skirt-clad Kappas to wear for the choreographed dance on the float to the delight of the hundreds of people lining the mile-long parade.

A date party was held at a Mexican restaurant, El Jardin in the Wrigleyville neighborhood of Chicago. The fall formal was held on the Spirit of Chicago, a chartered yacht. The previous fall the chapter decided to change its focus on philanthropy by shifting to community service, and a new philanthropic fever took hold of the chapter as Upsilon actives tutored children, volunteered at hospitals and served in soup kitchens. This change did not discourage the women from participating in campus held philanthropies Upsilon participated in a campus 5K run benefiting the Jane Addams Resource Center, another benefiting the Off-the-Street-Club of Chicago, the women participated in pajama races benefiting Camp Heartland, and Project Pumpkin, a Halloween extravaganza for Evanston youth. The chapter raised $1,000 for the annual all-campus Dance Marathon with the proceeds going to La Rabida Child’s Advocacy Center and the Evanston Community Foundation. The Kappas sponsored three couples who danced for thirty hours.
A traveling consultant visited the house in the fall and provided useful advice which assisted the women in running the house more smoothly.

Fraternity Education played a large role during the pledge period – with Monday night meetings, quizzes were given and Kappa history was taught to the new members. During the Winter quarter of 1998, the chapter held, Rock-n-Bowl, a date party which became a tradition. A semi-formal date party was held at the Green Dolphin Street.

Upsilon members were busy throughout campus in the following activities: campus radio station, dance marathon, Empower Women Group, student theater, varsity field hockey, soccer club, Panhellenic committees, student blood services, suitcase party, Student Athlete Board, as health aides, a swimming teacher, members of Sheila Center and Le Corde François, serve as French tutors, sailing, research assistant, baseball, softball, and Greek student delegate.
Spring quarter brought May Sing to campus and the Upsilon women were paired with Phi Kappa Sigma. A collaboration was formed to assist with songwriting. A majority of the pledge class attended resulting in a wonderful event everyone was proud of.

The chapter hosted Senior Snacks. Notes were sent out to parents requesting funny anecdotal stories about their daughters which were then read at spring chapter meetings. The Knickerbocker Hotel on Chicago’s lakefront was the location of the spring formal. The women contracted limousines for the drive from Evanston to the hotel. A new tradition began by presenting a senior slide show during the party.

The 1998 scholarship program expanded to include a 15-hour study week. Traditions were upheld including the scholarship dinners which saw an increased participation by professors. Many women received awards for their academic performance. Chapter meetings included “word of the week” and a cultural suggestion.

During the spring, a House Board Appreciation Tea was hosted for alumnae relations. A new updated Alumnae Directory was compiled and distributed. An Active/Alum mentoring Program was implemented. Among the benefits to the actives was the opportunity to shadow their alum in their careers.

As an added sisterhood event many of the women attended the Jenny Jones Show which was a syndicated daytime tabloid talk show that was hosted by comedian/actress/singer Jenny Jones and taped at the NBC studios in Chicago.

During the Spring quarter, a second traveling consultant visited the chapter. Committee nights were held the third week of each month and usual took place during or after chapter.
For the spring philanthropy, Upsilon hosted a 3-on-3 basketball tournament with 200 participants over two days. The chapter raised $4,000 for their efforts for One-Step-at-a-Time, an overnight camp for children with cancer.

Upsilon was dedicated to improving communications after the chapter president, along with two other chapter officers attended the 1998 national convention, Vision 20/20 held at the princess Resort in Scottsdale, AZ. Inspired by the magic created by convention, the knowledge the girls brought back to their chapter proved invaluable. The leadership techniques would work to make the chapter council more effective. The chapter made the decision to accept the Challenge to Excellence outlining high standards of conduct and maintaining strong Kappa traditions with a commitment to progress.

Founders Day was held on October 11, 1999 with a bang. The actives were refreshed with their knowledge of Kappa’s founding and learned fun Kappa trivia in preparation for the big night. Many alumnae from the Loop group and North Shore alumnae groups joined the chapter at Northwestern University for the event. The women participated in a candle-lighting ceremony and several women received their Twenty-Five and Fifty-Year anniversary pins. Refreshments were served.

Homecoming Brunch was held on October 16 and Parent’s Weekend Brunch was held on October 30.
The chapter co-rush chairs spent much of their time working on rookie workshops during New Student Week and Reading Week. They brainstormed ideas for everything from decorations to food to motivational strategies for tired Kappas. The duo made sure everything was in order working on tasks at the house or at Panhellenic rush meetings. Rush resulted in 45 new pledges, three of who were chosen as quota additions making this year a huge success.

The chapter coordinated with Phi Delta and Tri Delta to attend a Chicago Cubs baseball game as a social event. The chapter spring formal was held at Galleria Marchetti in downtown Chicago. During the fall, a costume contest date party with prizes was held at the Hidden Shamrock in Lincoln Park, and the fall formal was held at the Congress Hotel. A formal dinner was held at the Lodge. The year ended with a Holiday Party hosted by the Kappas and open to the campus. During the winter, the chapter held a date party at Rock-N-Bowl and a semi-formal at Narcissi.
For initiation in both the spring and fall, in order to prepare the Kappas for these big events, song practices were held weekly. The chapter marshal printed copies of all the songs and created packs distributing them for each member to practice.

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

In 2000, the Upsilon women hired Empire Photography to photograph their social parties and activities. Fraternal Composite Service was hired to photograph each girl for the house composite.

During the winter, a Heritage Workshop was held for the chapter titled Kappa Jeopardy after the long-popular television quiz show to get the Kappas involved and to learn about Kappa history.
The chapter participated in the Northwestern student-based philanthropy which raised more than $500,000. This campus Dance Marathon benefitted Gilda’s Club, Chicago. Gilda’s Club provided cancer victims and their families with extra funds, housing and support. As a house, Upsilon raised nearly $7,000 for the Club through fundraising and canning efforts. After a moving chapter presentation organized by the house philanthropy chair, 15 Kappas canned (a form of fundraising), and then met to tour Gilda’s Club to meet some of the cancer victims benefiting from the fundraiser. The chair wrote home to the parents of Kappas requesting donations and followed up with personal thank you notes. The chair also created quilt squares commemorating Kappa Beth Pancoe, who passed away during the year from cancer. The quilt was put together by many sororities and fraternities and donated to Gilda’s Club. During the Dance Marathon, 10 Kappas were dancers and some served on the dance marathon committee.

Blood drives were organized in February and March with great participation by chapter members.
A total of 1,893 freshmen from an applicant pool of 14,723 students enrolled in the Fall of 2000. Eighty-three percent graduated in the top 10 percent of their class. The Panhellenic Association at Northwestern University is one of the first Panhellenic in the country to pass a resolution stating that its member chapters will not co-sponsor or participate in on-campus events involving alcohol in fraternity houses. The resolution went into effect in the Fall. The Greek community receives nationwide media coverage for the resolution.

In 2000, Northwestern University hosted the Big Ten Greek Leadership Conference at the Hyatt Regency Woodfield. It is the first time in many years that the event has been held. NU, along with many other Big Ten schools opt to not attend the annual Mid-American Greek Council Association Conference, also held in Chicago, because it is too large and doesn't meet the needs of Greek organization officers.

In 2005-2006, Northwestern University was comprised of 8,000 undergraduate students. Northwestern has 12 sororities and 17 fraternities. Approximately 33% of the student body is active in Greek life.

The chapter went over an action plan, during which goals were discussed for the next year and how to accomplish them. Some goals were to have better committee and philanthropy involvement. In addition, the budget was given special attention because the chapter was unfamiliar with it. Due to the lack of committee involvement committees were reselected, and committee chairs had been reelected. This encouraged very active participation on all committees. The chairs delegated responsibility to members in the committee, and they structured goals and plans for their respective committee. In addition Philanthropy Chair was elected who led events, such as raising money for Pediatric AIDS by selling Krispy Kreme Donuts.

Epsilon experienced a very successful Recruitment. The chapter held a Founder's Day celebration and ceremony during which three alumni received their Fifty-Year pins. Members from the nearby alumni group were invited to attend. During the fall, a group of alumni dedicated a globe to the chapter in memory of a Kappa sister who passed away the previous year. The women hosted a ceremony to commemorate this event.

Upsilon chapter had one visit from a Leadership Consultants and looked forward to another visit in the spring. The chapter planned three very successful sisterhood events. These included a Kappa Kolor War, where the members were divided into teams and played games. The chapter arranged for a yoga instructor to come to the chapter and lead the women in yoga exercises. They also organized S'mores Night for the members to watch movies, make s'mores, and decorate "stars" (profiles about each member in the house) for Recruitment.

The chapter increased participation in campus Panhellenic philanthropy. The new members were not as familiar with Kappa ritual as they hoped to be, resulting in kappa Klassrooms to cover very specific ritual, formal chapter procedures and history. Northwestern University in 2006-2007 was comprised of approximately 7,750 undergraduate students. Northwestern is consistently one of the nation's top 15 Universities in the United States with 11 sororities and 17 fraternities. 35% of the student body is active in Greek life.

Upsilon had 120 members with 54 living in the Kappa house. The chapter members hail from all over the world, including Turkey, Jordan, England, and Israel. The chapter’s primary goals included improved chapter committee and philanthropy involvement. To achieve these goals, the women expanded committee roles, and committee heads were expected to delegate leadership and responsibility. The chapter elected new chapter officers and conducted a team consultation with Kellogg students to improve chapter officer interaction, make meetings more efficient and improve the way the chapter set its goals. The expansion of the old and new officers’ transition period allowed the new officers to be better trained and equipped to fulfill their new roles.

Upsilon had a very successful Recruitment with amazing Kappa spirit kept strong by prizes, fun costumes for rush groups during Member Selection and a hilarious rendition of their annual "Kappa Grease" skit. A Founder's Day celebration and ceremony were held during which several alumni received their anniversary pins. Members from the nearby alumni group were invited to attend. Upsilon chapter had one visit from a Leadership Consultants in the fall.

The women held a number of very successful sisterhood events including a Kappa Kolor War in the spring, dividing into teams to play games. Another spring event was Oscar night, where all the sisters came to the chapter to watch the Academy Awards together and enjoy tasty treats. During Halloween the chapter members visited a haunted prison. For recruitment, a “star” making event as held where each member created a personal profile star filled with photos to decorate the house. The chapter increased participation in Panhellenic campus philanthropy.

Two long-standing NU traditions were still a major part of campus life in 2007 during football games at Northwestern: everyone in the student section shakes their keys immediately before kickoffs. Some say that Northwestern students started doing this as a way to inform opposing fans that they were going to be pumping their gas or parking their cars someday. The other is The Claw. When the visiting team is on offense, it is traditional for NU students to make a claw with one of their hands and yell.

In 2008, the University opened a campus in Education City, Doha, Qatar with programs in journalism and communication. The Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life hires an additional staff member to give specific attention to the culturally-based organizations.
Northwestern begins GreekBuild, an effort among all four Greek councils to fund raise for and build a Habitat for Humanity house. Members of the Northwestern Greek community work together to break down negative stereotypes about Greek life and service their community by going to the build site on Saturdays, interacting with the family for whom the house is being built and participating in fun fundraising events on and off campus.

Fraternity and Sorority Life at Northwestern University in 2009 celebrated its 150 years on campus. The tradition of Dillo Day continues as the culmination of Mayfest with an all-day Saturday event on the lakefront featuring national and locally known bands, games and vendors. Each year, the IFC and Panhellenic community sponsor a free pancake breakfast on the morning of Dillo Day in the courtyard in front of Kellogg and free pizza during the afternoon on the Lakefill.

The women of Upsilon enjoyed playing waitresses and hostesses as they served Kappasta dinner to others. Kappasta raised more than $2,000 in proceeds to benefit Project Kindle and the Evanston Community Foundation, the two beneficiaries of the all-campus Dance Marathon 2009.

Undergraduate tuition at Northwestern for the 2010-2011 school year was $39,840. The University processed in excess of $472 million in financial aid for the 2009-2010 academic year. This included $265 million in institutional funds, with the remainder coming from federal and state governments and private organizations and individuals. Northwestern scholarship programs for undergraduate students support needy students from a variety of income and backgrounds. Approximately 44 percent of the June 2010 graduates had received federal and/or private loans for their undergraduate education, graduating with an average debt of $17,200.

During 2010, Upsilon had many highlights. Together with the brothers of Pi Kappa Alpha the chapter raised the second largest amount of money at Dance Marathon 2010, Northwestern’s biggest philanthropy. The money was donated to the Evanston Community Foundation and Stand Up for Kids, an organization that helps homeless and at risk youth. This success was partially due to a very successful Kappasta, a relatively new philanthropy event where the chapter invite members of the Northwestern community into Kappa Kitchen for some spaghetti, meatballs and socializing. Last spring the women started a new philanthropic tradition with the addition of Jail and Bail benefitting RIF. The Kappas teamed up with a fraternity on campus and members volunteered to be “arrested.” They were then held for an hour in a high traffic location on campus where passersby could donate and “bail” them out.

The chapter is a great mix of motivated and talented women who are very involved around campus. Many hold leadership positions in everything from philanthropic organizations like Dance Marathon and Special Olympics to groups that plan major social and entertainment events like Dillo Day and Ski Trip. On any given day there are numerous women lounging around the house doing homework, watching The Bachelor, a popular reality television series, or detailing their weekend adventures.

During the year the chapter moved elections to the end of fall quarter from the beginning of winter quarter to alleviate some of the stress after Formal Recruitment in the winter. However, transitions were still held in the winter so that women who were abroad during the fall semester would still be eligible for positions. This worked well for the girls and they plan to keep this system for the future.

The tradition of the composite picture style of individuality reflected in pose and clothing has not changed in the past few decades and will hopefully always be special to the chapter. It has been important for Upsilon chapter to be a chapter of individual women who come together to grow and learn from all of the unique characteristics each member brings by forming lifelong friendships.

In 2010, a number of construction projects were completed on the Northwestern University campus including the completion of Harris, the history building, which was a relief for history majors who had been displaced due to the construction. The Evanston Brothel Law has been of major concern for upperclassmen moving off campus. Northwestern students expressed their concerns to Evanston officials who ultimately decided not to enforce the law, saving many rising juniors and seniors from another off campus headache.

Kappas of the Upsilon Chapter are more than just involved in campus life and activities at Northwestern University - they continue to be immersed in it. From athletics, academics, leadership, campus and city cultural events, to the arts and music, Kappas are prevalent in every facet of Northwestern life. Kappas can be found in Tech, in the library, out in the communities of Evanston and Chicago, dancing on stage, giving flute recitals, and on the masthead of many campus publications. And when one Kappa is up on stage, or speaking from a podium, chances are there are more Kappas than not in the audience cheering her on. But Kappas don't just stay within the Chicago boundaries. You can find Upsilon Kappas around the world, spanning from Argentina to Australia, India to Italy, and Fargo, North Dakota to New York. And the networks they have built on-campus translate across the globe.

Academically, in the past year, Upsilon chapter moved up three spots across all sorority GPA rankings. 15 women had 4.0 quarters in the past three academic quarters. Academic Honors include: Order of Omega; Gamma Sigma Alpha; Dean's List Awards. Sports include: Sailing, Volleyball and Fencing. Campus Publications include: Stitch, Northwestern Art Review (NAR), The Weekly, North by Northwestern (NbN), Massive.tv. Arts: A&O Productions, Midsummer's Night Dream, Northwestern Community Jazz Program

==Highlights of 2011-2019==

==Highlights of 2011==

In academic year 2010-11, Northwestern enrolled 8,397 undergraduate and 7,870 graduate and professional students. Northwestern is a founding member of the Big Ten Conference and remains the only private university in the conference. Northwestern's approximately 225,093 alumni include leaders in government, law, science, education, medicine, media and the performing arts. The Northwestern Greek Community was recognized nationally for having a higher All-Greek GPA than the All-Campus GPA.

Kappas were represented on the Panhellenic Council, with one in charge of public relations for the committee. The Panhellenic Association hosted a successful formal winter recruitment, with 420 women matching with 12 chapters.

Many students were involved in community service in one form or another. Annual events include Dance Marathon, a thirty-hour event that raised more than a million dollars for charity in 2011.
The women of Upsilon celebrated achieving the highest GPA out of all the sororities on the Northwestern campus.

New member rituals were changed in order to strengthen the bonds of sisterhood. 2011 saw Upsilon provide the highest attendance at a GreekBuild event. By working together on service projects, GreekBuild participants broke down the barriers among individual chapters. One of the goals of GreekBuild events, build days and fundraising efforts was to bring together members of different chapters and councils.

As of December, 2011, the Barta sisters, Lexi (‘07), Romi (’10) and Marni (’13), all of Upsilon, along with a fourth sister, a student at the University of Pennsylvania donated more than 60,000 movies to more than 600 different hospitals throughout the United States and South Africa through their nonprofit organization, Kid Flicks. Their goal was to provide every children’s hospital in the country with a Kid Flicks movie library.

==Highlights of 2014==

In 2014 our chapter accomplished a great amount. Our officers worked incredibly hard to better organize the entire management of the chapter and took on the responsibility of redefining the culture within our chapter. All bylaws were updated and chapter council gained an entire advisory board to work with following our April meeting with the Fraternity. The chapter also focused a lot of energy on Northwestern's largest philanthropic even, Dance Marathon (DM). Individuals worked hard to raise enough money to participate, and the chapter also worked together to create a successful event, Kappasta. The event was incredibly fun and was a great way to promote new member bonding. The money raised at Kappasta was put towards our general Kappa DM fund and we ended up raising $90,000 and winning second place for large Greek teams for the fourth year in a row. Upsilon also connected to the Evanston community by volunteering at the YMCA and reading to children. We look forward to continuing our relationship with the YMCA and volunteering there again. Sisterhood events were another great highlight of the year. The chapter had a sisterhood event every month and we enjoyed various activities such as pumpkin carving, tie dying, kappa notebook decorating, and pledge family photos. Our chapter also received the awards Highest Quarterly GPA and most improved quarterly GPA in fall 2013 from the Order of Omega.

Upsilon chapter is a caring and involved group of young women. Members are very active on campus and this keeps us informed and active with any recent changes occurring on campus. Members also keep up with changes in Kappa Kappa Gamma and its members as well as other members in the Greek community. For example, our chapter ended a traditional philanthropy event called Jail N Bail this year because other members of the community as well as our own members believed that the event could be perceived negatively by people with sensitive beliefs about the issue of incarceration in America. Our women worked hard to come up with other ideas for philanthropy events that would be less controversial or offensive at a time when our campus is becoming more diverse and when people are striving to be as sensitive as possible towards all cultures. We have embraced this incident as an opportunity to educate ourselves and the larger Northwestern Greek and non-Greek community on the different between intent and impact.

We hold meetings in a university owned Kappa house on campus. Our chapter has been at NU in the same facility for 122 years. We are incredibly lucky that our house is large enough to hold an entire sophomore pledge class as well as many juniors each year. Our house is university owned and 60 woman are able to live in the house at once.

The president wears a historical badge that has been handed down to each Upsilon president.

==Highlights of 2015==

In 2015, our chapter accomplished a great amount. Our chapter council officers worked hard to continue what we started in 2014 to better organize the entire management of the chapter and to redefine the culture within our chapter. All officers worked with their advisors as well as LCs to brainstorm and devise more successful strategies to accomplish the duties of their positions and to encourage involvement and cooperation in all chapter members. We even participated in our first retreat where chapter council members met with advisors and members of the Fraternity to re-strategize for the upcoming school year. We also worked hard to better our sisterhood. We started “senior of the week” presentations at each chapter meeting so that the underclassmen could really get to know the senior pledge class. We also implemented coffee dates where underclassmen get coffee with upperclassmen who share similar interests. This was helpful both socially and academically because underclassmen could seek upperclassmen with the same majors or job interests and get their advice.

In 2015, the chapter focused a lot of energy on Northwestern’s largest philanthropic event, Dance Marathon (DM). Individuals worked hard to raise enough money to participate (at least $400), and the chapter also worked together to create a successful event, Kappasta. The event was successful, fun, and a great way to promote new member bonding. The money raised at Kappasta was put towards our general Kappa DM fund and we ended up raising $68,000 and winning second place for large Greek teams for the fifth year in a row. Upsilon was also able to connect to the Evanston community towards the end of 2015 and continue our relationship with the YMCA. Sisters volunteered by reading to children and donating children’s books to the YMCA. This was a fun and rewarding experience for the chapter. Sisterhood events were another highlight of the year. The chapter held a sisterhood event every month and we enjoyed various activities such as pumpkin carving with Pi Beta Phi, tie dying, movie night, and KKTea party.

The campus at Northwestern University has undergone changes over the past year. One history building on campus, called “The Black House,” was established years ago to provide a safe, comfortable space for black students to visit during their time at Northwestern. Northwestern administration wanted to bring the Campus Inclusion and Community offices into the Black House. This was met with great uproar, as students and alumni expressed deep concerns about encroaching on the Black House. Most recently, the University announced that they would not make these changes because of the aforementioned issues. There have also been several historic campus protests in relation to the events that occurred at the University of Missouri earlier this year. The nature of our chapter is very much focused on diversity and inclusion, and we have several members who have participated and supported activism on campus. Each member of Upsilon is very different than the other members of our house, and we greatly appreciate having friends and sisters of various backgrounds, cultures and personal histories.

Chapter Philanthropy:

What organization(s) has your chapter historically/traditionally raised money for, or donated hours to, in your community? Reading is Fundamental and the YMCA

Why did your chapter choose this organization(s) to support?

Reading is Fundamental is the Fraternity’s official beneficiary, and we all greatly appreciate the importance of literacy and furthering education in our community. The Evanston “Y” has provided an excellent venue for our continued support of literacy and working with children in our community.

==Highlights of 2016==

This past year was a great year for Upsilon chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma at Northwestern. Our year was filled with scholarship, sisterhood, charity, and more. We sent three of our members to Convention in San Diego this summer, which was great and allowed them to bring their new information to the chapter. We also started out our year with a newly renovated home, which made living in the house even more enjoyable for everyone. We used the new living room to host movie nights or to bring together the chapter to watch the election or political debates.

We also had many sisterhood events such as Kappa Thanksgiving or when we went pumpkin picking. These were great opportunities for our chapter to bond and make everlasting memories. This year Upsilon also made a lot of internal changes and made progress in pushing our chapter in the right direction. We updated our risk policies and created a Change Management Team . In terms of philanthropy, we hosted many events and raised a lot of money through events such as our Spelling Bee and reading events. Not many noticable changes have occurred on the Northwestern campus, however, in terms of the nature of our chapter, Upsilon has made a lot of internal changes and has made a lot of progess in order to make our chapter a better, more sustainable, and value-based chapter. We have implemented a Change Management Team, updated our risk management policies, and more.

Besides supporting our national philanthropy Reading is Fundamental, we also support Northwestern's Dance Marathon. Each year Dance Marathon chooses a new charity to support and the whole school raises money in individual teams. Kappa Kappa Gamma teams up with a fraternity each year to raise money for the cause. This year, Dance Marathon will be supporting Gigi's Playhouse, which is a nonprofit that provides support and programming to individuals with Down Syndrome. Through multiple fundraising efforts, Upsilon Chapter will raise money to support Gigi's playhouse, as well as dance for 30 hours in Dance Marathon. Each year we support and raise money for Dance Marathon because we believe it is an important part of being an active member of the Northwestern community as well as supporting local causes. As students at Northwestern, we want to give back in any way we can, and supporting Dance Marathon allows us to help charities that are close the campus, whether that be in Evanston or Chicago.

We hold informal chapter meetings in our living room. We are fortunate enough to have a beautiful home where many of the women in our chapter can live. In this house, we have a beautiful and newly renovated living room where we can host informal chapter, and we host formal chapter in the lower level of the home.

==Highlights of 2017==

2017 was a transformative year for Upsilon. From January to today, the chapter held a number of events and achieved many milestones. The winter quarter period, from January to March, began with a succcesful recruitment. Upsilon welcomed a pledge class of 36 new women. In between Big/Little week, Rock 'n Bowl and other activities, the quarter was also dedicated to transitioning the new chapter council. Our Marshal organized a phenomenal Initiation in the presence of alumnae and advisers. One of our favorite events was "Galentine's Tea" to celebrate each other and the annual favorite philanthropy event, Kappasta, was also organized to raise money for Dance Marathon. After a refreshing spring break, the chapter came back in the spring to wrap things up and prepare for summer. A few of our sisters represented Upsilon at the Leadership Conference in St. Louis, Missouri. While there, they met with our advisers and We held our spring formal at Zed451 with a fun twist: superlatives. Sisters voted on who best fit categories such as "Kappa Kat Lady," "Kween of the Kitchen,"Kappa Kardashian," "#1 Kappal," "Kappa Kouple," "Kappa Tough Kookie," "Kappa Kackle," "Kappa Kouch Potato," and others. Winners were given sashes during the formal. As the academic year wrapped up, NPC recognized the chapter for excellence in Congruencce and Accountability and Kappa HQ changed our status from Warning of Probation to Focus Letter. We accomplished many things from January to June and we left Evanston happy with the progress and focused on keeping up the work.. When we came back in September, the chapter council decided to focus on wellness. Upsilon organized a body image workshop with author and professor Dr. Renee Engeln about her book, Beauty Sick, that discusses the problematic cultural discussion of women's bodies. Upsilon and NPC partnered for the event and made it a campus-wide event, in which there were copies of the Engeln book raffled to audience members. Upsilon continued to have wellness conversations throughout the quarter. Fall quarter was also dedicated to recruitment preparation, and several workshops were held for the chapter to begin getting ready for recruitment in January. Women also volunteered at the YMCA to read to kids. Lastly, Upsilon held its fall formal at Key Club in downtown Chicago in late November. The theme was "Sapphire Ball" with women wearing blue dresses and the famed campus photographer, Justin Barbin, taking photos of the event. The House Committee also planned a staff appreciation event by making a poster with all chapter members writing their appreciation for Leo, Aida and Ms. Murray. Lastly, the quarter wrapped up with a visit from ABC News' 20/20 show crew to film the house for a special about Upsilon Kappa, Meghan Markle. Meghan will marry Prince Harry of Great Britain in May 2018 and will become a Duchess.

==HIghlights of 2018==

2018 was a great year for Kappa Kappa Gamma. We began this school year welcoming new house mom, Lynn. She has been a great addition to our chapter! Our officers continued working hard to facilitate a healthy environment in the sorority and worked to formulate a new chapter council structure. We are excited to see this play out next year. This calendar year the chapter raised money for Northwestern Dance Marathon at our annual Kappasta event. It was a great way for the new pledge class to bond with each other and older members. The chapter is now looking forward to next years Dance Marathon where we will be supporting Chicago Public Schools and the Evanston Community Foundation. Each year we support and raise money for Dance Marathon. Dance marathon is an important part of Kappa Kappa Gamma and the Northwestern community because we feel it is important to support local causes and support each other at the same time. As students at Northwestern, we want to give back in any way we can, and supporting Dance Marathon allows us to help charities that are close the campus, whether that be in Evanston or Chicago.In the fall the chapter supported Reading is Fundamental by sponsoring a profit share at Blaze Pizza where part of the profits from each pizza sold were donated to RIF. It was such a fun time and a great way to raise money and awareness for RIF. The chapter also took trips to local elderly homes and read to the residents there to further help the Evanston community. The chapter holds their meetings on campus in the sorority house. Due to an influx of violence on campus, there have been increased secruity measures around the sorority quad and the chapter has responded by walking in groups at night and being aware of our surroundings. All sororities came together to implement group walking and safety measures. The chapter was very happy for our alumnae Meghan Markle on her marriage to Prince Harry. We are very fortunate as the house board has recently provided our kitchen with new appliances for the members to use. We now have access to a toaster oven as well as a panini maker, allowing the members more freedom in the kitchen.

==Highlights of 2019==

2019 was a great year for Upsilon! The winter quarter period, from January to March, began with our formal recruitment. Upsilon was honored to receive a pledge class of 25 new members. From Big/Little week to Rock 'n Bowl, our new members began to feel right at home on 1871 Orrington Avenue. Four of our chapter members additionally visited Dallas, Texas for Kappa Leadership Conference, where they learned the importance of leading by example. Thanks to our VP Member Development, we participated in a fabulous education programming about eating disorders. Our annual philanthropy event, Kappasta, was an extreme success, organized to raise money for Dance Marathon. Upsilon and Pi Kappa Alpha raised over $2500 for Communities in Schools of Chicago! Alongside Kappasta, Upsilon engaged in a Soul Cycle fundraiser for NUDM as well. To end out our winter quarter, the Kappa NUDM team raised $71,000, placing second in the large team category for best performing fundraising teams! After our spring break, the chapter came back in to wrap things up and prepare for summer. During our spring quarter, we engaged in many programmings, on topics such as sexual assault and bystander intervention. We additionally met with our district specialists and advisers to develop an Action Plan in lieu of the probation we were placed on in March. Our Philanthropy chair additionally planned an impressive event at our local philanthropy, Cornerstone Community Outreach Center, reading with underprivileged Evanston youth. To end April, we engaged in a homemade fondue sisterhood event in the Kappa Kitchen! May was filled with Kappa fun - including a great formal at Trophy Room as well as a laser tag sisterhood event! When we returned in September, we picked up right where we left off, progressing through the Action Plan and making strides towards becoming the best possible version of Upsilon. We were lucky enough to be visited by the 150 Year Sisterhood Van, where we learned a bit about the past 150 years of Kappa history as they made their way across the country from Monmouth to Convention! Additionally, our Risk Manager presented an incredible hazing prevention workshop in preparation for new members this winter. In November, we hosted an impressive philanthropy event, our first ever Family Weekend Brunch & Silent Auction to support our local philanthropy, Cornerstone Community Outreach and our national philanthropy Reading is Fundamental in the Kappa house. Finally, we closed off November with a fabulous Sapphire Ball formal at Clutch Bar in Chicago as well as a cookie decorating sisterhood event before reading and finals weeks. We can’t wait to see what is in store for Upsilon near year, and how great of a chapter we can continue to aspire to be! "

Northwestern has become a politically correct and inclusive campus. Northwestern has begun creating gender neutral bathrooms throughout campus buildings as well as engaging in discussions pertaining to how journalists should report on traumatic situations, as per the Daily Northwestern's coverage of the protest surrounding Jeff Sessions' speech on campus. Additionally, Northwestern celebrated its 150th anniversary of admitting women into its student body this past year, which was an incredible feat for the women of Kappa Kappa Gamma to celebrate. Northwestern is also experiencing a decline in terms of Greek life - less women are choosing to undergo recruitment overall, which results in smaller pledge classes for all chapters. This makes ensuring that Kappa's brand is a positive and welcoming one overall all the more important for Upsilon in order to ensure its success for many years to come.

We support Cornerstone Community Outreach. It is a local homeless shelter in Evanston. The women of Upsilon are lucky enough to have a home on 1871 Orrington Avenue and we want to enable other Evanston residents to have somewhere they can call home like we call the Kappa house.

We welcomed the Minnie Stewart 150 Year Sisterhood Van as it stopped on our campus! We also bought a banner to hang on the porch of our house to celebrate."

==Highlights of 2020==

2020 was a difficult year for everyone as we balanced living in a new normal during a global pandemic. Upsilon chapter had a successful winter formal recruitment where we were pleased to welcome and initiate 25 new members. We had a welcoming Big/Little week, followed by Inspiration Week, and a costume-themed formal in March. We had Northwestern Dance Marathon scheduled for the first weekend of March however, Northwestern University cancelled NUDM due to rising COVID-19 cases in the country. As the pandemic worsened, Northwestern University mandated virtual or socially distanced final exams for Winter Quarter. Many students went home before finals week, including several of Upsilon’s members. Spring Quarter at Northwestern was completely virtual, so chapter operations for Upsilon were held virtually. In the spring, we held sisterhood events over Zoom and sent out weekly newsletters, where our members bonded while being all over the world. Our Upsilon members overseas were in different time zones so we structured our virtual meetings at different times. Additionally, we realized the inaccessibility of Zoom meetings for our members who may not have access to internet or Zoom-compatible devices which led us to make all chapter events optional for attendance. We were also saddened by the retirement of our House Director, Lynn, but were happy to welcome our new House Director, Annie. In October, we celebrated Kappa’s Founders Day and the 150th year anniversary over Zoom. Additionally, thanks to our VP Membership Education, Lindsay Tanney, we held a weekly speakers series, where we invited speakers from several different social justice organizations to come teach our members ways we can incorporate inclusivity in our daily lives.

Our new virtual world did not stop Upsilon from continuing our philanthropic efforts. Not only were we virtual during a global pandemic, but we witnessed the violent and unjustifiable murder of George Floyd, which forced the media to bring the issues of racial injustices to the forefront. Upsilon chapter held a virtual fundraiser, using Bingo cards, to raise money for the Chicago Community Bail Fund. We chose this organization because it advocates for low-income communities who cannot afford bail. Our members participated in protests for Black Lives Matter all over the world and continued to stand against injustice. The Upsilon chapter released a public statement condemning anti-Blackness and social injustices, as well as signing several petitions urging Northwestern University to prioritize the needs of Black and Indigenous students. Being in quarantine allowed our members to truly reflect ways which they uphold white supremacist structures and think of ways to combat exclusivity. Along with the Black Lives Matter movement, we experienced a rise in the Abolish Greek Life movement, a movement on campuses across the country trying to disband Greek institutions. The Abolish Greek Life movement reached Northwestern’s campus where some Interfraternity and Panhellenic chapters disbanded. Our Upsilon chapter experienced a large wave of resignations from members because of the societal pressure placed upon members by the movement. Additionally, the financial burden of membership dues on top of financial insecurity caused by the pandemic and a high volume of unemployment led several members to resign.

The Abolish Greek Life at NU rose to prominence in July and led the Upsilon chapter to have several virtual meetings to discuss our chapter’s role in maintaining exclusive membership. We met with Kappa Headquarters, the Northwestern Panhellenic community, and internally with alumnae and current members to discuss and hear the different views represented in our chapter. We found that our chapter perpetuated harm in the past and currently, especially towards marginalized communities on campus. Ultimately, the Upsilon chapter decided to draft a letter to Headquarters requesting the surrender of our charter at Northwestern. This letter was signed by ¾ of active Upsilon members and was sent to the Advisory Board for their consideration.

==Highlights of 2021==

The Advisory Board denied the request to surrender the chapter, and all the chapter members that signed the letter were automatically dismissed. After this, there were only two members of the chapter left, Skylar Waldron and Tanitoluwa "Tani" Adedibu.

In January, students were finally allowed back on campus, and therefore allowed back in the house. With our new house director, Annie, welcoming us into the house, it made the cold season much warmer. In the Winter and Spring Quarters, four people lived in the house: the remaining two active members, and two members that took early-alumnae status. PHA cancelled primary recruitment this year because of Covid-19, but allowed chapters to recruit informally, via continuous open bidding, in the Spring Quarter.
Skylar Waldron became the President of Upsilon and led the way to reviving the chapter. In May, Skylar held informal recruitment virtually, over Zoom, with the help of Bailee Myers, Mary Belvin, Emma Caroline Belvin, and the Theta Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma. By May 16, 2021, Skylar and Tani recruited and formally pledged seven new members: Yiting "Selina" Liu, Adelaide Ray Young, Hope Jin, Abigail "Abby" Toltus, Amanda "Mandy" Zobel, Savannah Graziano, and Emma Burnham. We held our New Member Retreat at The Pot Shop in Evanston, IL, where we sculpted clay turtles; because of Covid-19, everyone was social distancing and wearing masks, in addition to most attendees being vaccinated. These seven new members were initiated into the chapter on Sunday, June 6, 2021, in a virtual ceremony that combined the three different parts of initiation into one. Since Covid-19 was still prominent, Northwestern University would not allow us to hold in-person meetings or rituals, so everything from the formal pledging, to new member education, to ritual review was held over Zoom.
These nine new members form what is, essentially, a second charter of Upsilon. Since Upsilon is now starting from scratch again, we look to our original charter members, Katharine Lucinda Sharp, Anna M. Boyle, Grace Little, Minnie Louise Scott, and Lucy Katharine Wood, for inspiration.

This fall, Upsilon is again participating in informal recruitment, this time in-person, and virtually for people who might be more comfortable this way. The chapter held three events, "Scoops with the Sisters," "Mask Decorating with KKG," and "Koffee with Kappas" in September. Throughout October, our chapter participated in informal recruitment through individual meetings with interested potential new members, organized by our Vice President of Membership, Amanda "Mandy" Zobel. As of now, the chapter has one new member, Rose Akcan, who was formally pledged on October 14th, 2021, and will be initiated on November 21st, 2021.

In early October, there were situations that occurred at Fraternity houses on campus. In light of this, the chapter decided to put out a statement through our Instagram page (kkgnorthwestern) stating that we stand with, support, and believe survivors. This was spearheaded and mostly written by our Vice President of Member Development, Savannah Graziano. Savannah has also started a Kappa Book Klub, with more details to come.

We are attempting to continue classic Kappa traditions like Big/Little. We have partnered with Eta Lambda, Kappa's Chapter at Loyola University-Chicago, for Big/Little, so that each member can have their own big sister. Since our campuses are so close together, a few members of Eta Lambda have volunteered to be big sisters and mentors to members of Upsilon chapter. We are looking forward to what comes from our partnership.

Since all members of the chapter are now vaccinated against Covid-19 and are regularly tested, the chapter is able to hold events, such as chapter, ritual, and new member education, in-person. We also have a new Chapter Adviser, Ingrid Heider, who has helped us greatly.

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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!

Eta Kappa

2022-01-03T21:56:55Z

Epsilon Specialist: /* Highlights of 2020 */

{{Infobox Fraternity
|Name= Eta Kappa
|GreekSymbol= HK
|Image= [[File:Eta_Kappa.jpg|200px]]
|Founded= {{start date and years ago|2007|03|04}}
|College= [https://www.knox.edu/ Knox College]
|Location= Galesburg, IL
|Homepage= [https://knox.kappa.org Eta Kappa Homepage]
|Media= [https://wiki.kkg.org/index.php?title=Category:Eta_Kappa Media related to Eta Kappa Chapter]}}

'''Knox College established in 1837, Galesburg, Illinois'''

'''Founded March 4, 2007 - 31 charter members'''

''' 181 initiates (as of June 2018)''' <br>

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'''Charter Members:''' Caroline Brooke Allen, Ama Gyamfuaa Awua-Kyerematen, Jessica Rosalin Chan, Jennifer Beth Davis, Miriam Gillan, Danielle Marie Goebel, Virginia Baker Graves, Devynn Elise Hawley, Carolyn Elizabeth Hill, Jacqueline Elizabeth Johnson, Sibel Karabeyoglu, Carly Rose Kauffman, Rebeccah Jane Lanni, Jacqueline Claire Lee, Meryl Hope Leventon, Katya Colleen Manak, Kathleen Elizabeth Manly, Maureen Erin McDonnell, Nerissa Florentine Montes, Lindsey Annette Murrell, Jennifer Elizabeth Nefzger, Alexandra Kristin Nicasio, Stephanie Catherine Osthoff O'Brien, Alisha Carroll Statsinger Oscharoff, Catherine Adeline Ray, Jasmina Marie Ruano, Paloma Romero, Hadley Reese Standring, Jessica Anna Elaine Strache, Leslie Grace Stubbs, and Dana Samson Tipson.

'''Convention Awards:'''<br>
2008 New Member Program Honorable Mention <br>
2014 Excellence in Chapter Management

== Some of Eta Kappa's Outstanding Alumnae==
'''Fraternity Officers''' <br>

'''Fraternity Loyalty Award Recipients''' <br>

'''Fraternity Alumnae Achievement Award Recipients''' <br>

'''Additional Outstanding Eta Kappa Alumnae''' <br>
Jordan Nichole Newsom Leadership Consultant 2013-2014, Standards Content Director 2018-2020 <br>
Molly Anne Stein Chapter Council Adviser and Advisory Board Chairman of Eta Phi Chapter, Elmhurst College 2013-current <br>
Kathleen Mary Podlipni President of Chicago Loop Alumnae Association 2014-2015, Province Director of Chapters Epsilon Central 2015-16 <br>

== Historical Highlights==
'''October 16, 2006''' TSO shed its letters and began their journey to becoming Eta Kappa Chapter. <br>
'''March 4, 2007''' Eta Kappa was installed. <br>
'''Spring 2007''' Eta Kappa, in their 1st ever Greek Week, came in 3rd place. <br>
In the 2007-2008 year, Eta Kappa made an appearance in every issue of ''The Key''. <br>
'''Fall 2007''' Eta Kappa began their annual fundraiser Win-A-Date. It was called the Uganda Initiative because all donations, monetary and school supplies, were going to be donated to schools in need in Uganda as suggested by Virginia Graves and Emily Putnam. The women raised $1,500 that year. The Win-A-Date fundraiser raises money towards a different philanthropy that is dear to our members' hearts every year since. <br>
'''Spring 2008''' Eta Kappa held a scholarship banquet to recognize professors and build positive Kappa-faculty relationships. <br>
'''Fall 2008''' Eta Kappa got their house! <br>
'''Fall 2008''' Win-A-Date proceeds of $1856.15 went to Girl Effect BRAC programs for Safe Spaces and Small Loans for Teenage Girls in Tanzania as suggested by Kathleen Podlipni, who fell in love with Girl Effect and Emily Jensen, who studied abroad in Tanzania. This is the year that "Win-A-Date" was trademarked by Kathleen and the Win-A-Date committee, Chloe Bohm (Philanthropy Chairman at the time) and Hadley Standring.<br>
'''February 2009''' Eta Kappa co-hosted the Biennial Province Meeting with Alpha Deuteron Chapter (Monmouth College) and were honored with a Membership Award at the banquet. <br>
'''Spring 2012''' Eta Kappa won its 1st Greek Week. <br>
'''Fall 2012''' Eta Kappa achieved its highest GPA average thus far and had the highest Greek GPA overall.<br>
'''Spring 2013''' Eta Kappa won its 2nd Greek Week. <br>
'''Fall 2013''' Win-A-Date proceeds of over $2,000 went to Watts of Love as suggested by Jenna Butler. This was the largest amount fundraised by this event thus far. Founder of Watts of Love, Nancy Economou attended the event and provided an amazing presentation of her experience and work. <br>

==The Story of Our Founding==
Eta Kappa chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma was originally founded because before Kappa Kappa Gamma came on Knox College's campus, there were only two NPC sororities (Pi Beta Phi and Delta Delta Delta) available for membership. Knox College was also home to these NPC sororities, Delta Zeta (1915-1964), Alpha Xi Delta (1929-1973) and Phi Mu (1912-1989), but they all became dormant or inactive and essentially Knox College was a two NPC sorority school for 18 years!

Our Eta Kappa founders, Catherine Ray, Meryl Leventon, Stephanie O'Brien, Caroline Allen, Sibel Karabeyoglu, and Jennifer Davis believed in diversity and creating options for other women interested in participating in NPC Greek life. <br>

Before their affiliation and installation as a chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma, our founders took the letters Tau Sigma Omega, TSO, sometimes comically called Tau Sigma Omicron. As the story goes, these women met at Knox College's swimming pool where Stephanie O'Brien was employed as a student lifeguard. This is where the historic Alpha document was written. This document was approved by the Dean of Student Life and TSO was officially founded on Thursday, March 10, 2005. TSO had also increased their membership to 10 women. Membership would continue to increase as their first informal recruitment event was held in the Fall of 2005.

Their first chapter council meeting consisted of Catherine Ray (President), Stephanie O'Brien (Vice-President), Meryl Leventon (Treasurer), Kathleen Manly (Philanthropy Chair), Jennifer Davis (Social Chair), Nerissa Montes (Recruitment Chair), Sibel Karabeyoglu (Secretary), and Caroline Allen (Treasurer).

Other TSO members who became Eta Kappa Chapter members include Miriam Gillan (Pledge Educator), Emily Jensen (who has probably served the longest New Member period in KKG history from October 2006 until October 2007), Jacqueline Lee (who would become Eta Kappa's first President), Katya Manak, Maureen McDonnell (who would become Eta Kappa's second President), Alisha Oscharoff (Academic Chair), Jasmina Ruano (who designed the Eta Kappa flag), Dana Tipson, Hadley Standring and Jessica Strache.

Their first philanthropy event was their participation in Galesburg's Polar Plunge event and fundraiser for Special Olympics, a tradition that Eta Kappa chapter carried on until 2009.

TSO was not allowed to participate in formal recruitment in the winter of 2006, but they continued to grow regardless.

By spring of 2006, TSO had been a Greek colony for a year and could begin the process of national affiliation.

TSO ultimately decided to affiliate with Kappa Kappa Gamma (and not with Kappa Delta) because of Kappa Kappa Gamma's dedication to leadership, philanthropy, and scholarship. TSO felt that their ideals were similar to those of Kappa Kappa Gamma's. The Knox Student Life Committee subsequently voted to invite Kappa Kappa Gamma to join the Greek community at Knox.

TSO affiliated with Kappa Kappa Gamma on October 16, 2006 and became the Eta Kappa colony.

As a colony of Kappa Kappa Gamma, the women formerly known as TSO, were allowed to participate in their first formal recruitment in the winter of 2007.

Kappa Kappa Gamma accepted the invitation to install its 132nd active chapter at Knox College in Galesburg, Illinois. Eta Kappa was installed on March 4, 2007 by President, Denise Rugani, while Epsilon Chapter (Illinois Wesleyan) acted as Eta Kappa's installing chapter and key sisters.

==Eta Kappa Chapter & Knox College==
Eta Kappa Chapter at Knox College is located only 13 miles from Monmouth College and the Stewart House Museum, the home of founder, Minnie Stewart. The college was founded by social reformers who opposed slavery and believed in the potential of all to learn, grow, and contribute to the greater good of the community. Knox was one of the first colleges to admit African Americans and women and remains one of America's historically significant liberal arts colleges and is the only remaining site of the Lincoln-Douglas debates in 1858. The City of Galesburg, approximately 50 miles east of the Mississippi River, is a unique town in that it was a planned city whose purpose was fostering religious education. Knox College was the main reason for its existence. (From an official letter, November, 2006)

Knox is consistently ranked in the top 20 liberal arts colleges in America. Most notable is its appearance in Loren Pope's book, ''Colleges That Change Lives'', where 40 schools are discussed that change the lives of their students through the students’ access to their PhD professors, an administration that is supportive of the Greek community, a high percentage of students succeeding in their graduate school pursuits, and other plaudits. Princeton Review, U.S. News and World Report and many other publications applaud this fine academic institution.

Knox is a private, independent college committed to the liberal arts as the best educational preparation for life. The student enrollment in 2007 was 1,245, of which 54 percent were female. More than 20 percent of the student body is Greek with five national fraternities and chapters of Delta Delta Delta and Pi Beta Phi founded in 1889 and 1884 respectively.

Kappa Kappa Gamma was honored to accept the invitation of the exceptional women of a local sorority to affiliate with the National Panhellenic Conference Fraternity. These new Kappas were recognized for their philanthropic efforts on campus and in Galesburg.

==Highlights of 2007 - 2010==

After Eta Kappa was installed, the chapter did not hesitate to wear their new letters while continuing their earlier philanthropic work and recruitment but were particularly excited to partake officially in Knox College's Greek Community.

On a cold March morning, members of Eta Kappa took a Polar Plunge at Lake Storey in Galesburg, Illinois. With a minimum pledge of $75.00 for the icy dip for the Illinois Special Olympics. A photo of our team's plunge made it in the newspaper, The Register-Mail.

Greek Week began with Sunday’s Greek Olympics with stations set up throughout campus. Monday was Trivia Night, which had a large turnout. Tuesday was devoted to philanthropy with a blood drive. Philanthropy actually went on all week with donations being accepted for The Boys and Girls Club with each Greek organization earning points for the amount of supplies and money donated. The Greeks were able to raise $125 for The Boys and Girls club as well as boxes of school supplies. On the evening of Thursday May 8th 2007, the Gizmo on the campus of Knox College was packed with excited sorority and fraternity members clad in neon green shirts which read, “Greekalodeon,” the Greek Week theme. Members had gathered to watch the popular Greek talent show and find out the winners of Greek Week. The show was filled with a variety of acts including Kappa Kappa Gamma’s singers and dancers playfully mocking Knox Greek organizations to much applause. As it would turn out, the chapter skit would win the award for funniest performance. Many of the Greeks present were happy for such a relaxing and fun week, especially since there were previous tensions and difficulties in the Greek community the past year surrounding local greek colonies affiliating with NPC or IFC organizations. Overall, Kappa Kappa Gamma came in 3rd place with 122 points.

The last three weekends of October 2008 were spent by having the women of Pi Beta Phi and Kappa Kappa Gamma taking a twenty minute drive north of campus to scare the pants off people. The two sororities tried something new for the both of them - a joint philanthropic venture. We believed that since both of our organizations were founded “up the road in Monmouth", and with both of our national philanthropies being geared toward literacy, it would make for a great pairing. The women joined together at the Country Corner Farm Market and Pumpkin Patch to work the corn maze by either welcoming victims with the provided scary story or by actually scaring the people inside. Afterwards the proceeds from the ticket sales were split up among the organizations based on how many hours each worked. All our proceeds went to Reading Is Fundamental.

On the evening of October 24th, 2008, the ladies of the Eta Kappa chapter brought students, parents, and other members of the Greek community together for their second annual “Win-A-Date” event. $1,856.15 was raised to support Girl Effect through BRAC programs for Safe Spaces and Small Loans for Teenage Girls in Tanzania. The evening was the culmination of a week of fundraising through change wars between Greek organizations on campus. The two members from each of the social Greek organizations Kappa Kappa Gamma, Delta Delta Delta, Pi Beta Phi, Phi Gamma Delta, Tau Kappa Epsilon, Beta Theta Pi, Sigma Chi, Sigma Nu, and colony, ATP, as well as from the Alpha Phi Omega Service Fraternity and Sigma Alpha Iota Music Sorority volunteered to be hosts and hostesses for the dates. Local businesses donated dinner, movie, and bowling certificates, which were given as prizes to the winning bidders and their dates. Among the many generous donations made that evening was one exceptional date that sold for over $230. Eta Kappa members felt a special connection to this particular cause not only as women, but also from the personal experiences of its members. One active’s travels to Uganda inspired the first Uganda Initiative event in 2007. Another member, studied abroad in Tanzania in 2007. With this in mind, Eta Kappa chapter was inspired by Girl Effect and was proud to support the education and empowerment of women internationally.

As a chapter, we also emphasized the support and encouragement of our members in their leadership roles and involvement in other campus activities. These included AAINA, American Chemical Society, Alpha Phi Omega, Asian Student Association, Best Buddies, Business Club, Campus Progress, Carl Sandburg Literacy Coalition, College Art Association, Costume Shop, Cottage Hospital,Cross Country, Dance Squad, Film Production Club, Galesburg Civic Art Center, Golf, Habitat for Humanity, Harambee, Hillel Club, Intramural Sports, Intervarsity Christian Fellowship, Invisible Children, Jazz Combo, Junior Great Books, Knox Ambassadors, Knox Bloggers, Knox College Choir, Knox College Sign Language Club, Knox County Jail Literacy Project, Knox County Regional G.S., Knox Galesburg Symphony, Knox Sandburg Community Concert Band, Knox String Ensemble, Making Things Craft Club, Mortar Board, Odyssey Mentoring, Office of Admissions, Order of Omega, Prairie Players, Pre-Health Club, Pre-Vet Club, Reading Buddies, Rotaract Club, Rugby, SASS, SHAG, Soccer, Spanish Club, Student Athletic Advisory Council, Student Athletic Training, Student Senate, Studio Theatre, Tennis, Terpsichore, Track and Field, Union Board (Flunk Day planning!), Women’s Chorale, Water Polo, WVKC and Yoga Club.

In May of 2009, Sigma Chi and Kappa Kappa Gamma co-hosted an ultimate frisbee tournament to raise money for the FISH Food Pantry. Proceeds from the event were donated to the pantry that provides families in need with enough food to feed them with three nutritious meals a day.

Eta Kappa chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma brought 14 Greek organizations and students together along with 35 businesses from Galesburg on Friday, October 16, 2009 in the Gizmo for the purpose of raising money for Valhalla Experimental Station in Guatemala through their 3rd Annual Win-A-Date event. The total amount of money raised for Valhalla was $1227.56. Previous to the actual event, the chapter fundraised through change wars again, as jars for the president of each Greek group participating was at a table in Seymour Hall during meals. The president’s jar with the most money earned the title of the “ultimate date” and received the biggest gift certificate received through donation from a local Galesburg business. Gift certificates for local Galesburg businesses such as Q’s Café, Kaldi’s, etc. were auctioned off as date packages with optional Greek male and female hosts/hostesses.

During the May 2010 Knox Greek Week, Eta Kappa Chapter had members win two very distinguished awards at the Greek Banquet: Adviser of the Year Renee Tadie (ABC/CCA/VPS Adviser from 2007-2010) and Emerging Female Greek Leader Emily Putnam. Raise the Roof!

On Thursday, October 28, 2010, the Business Club’s Halloween Crafts Day provided an opportunity for Knox students and children from the local Boys and Girls Club to bond over Halloween-themed crafts and games. The multidimensional club along with members from Alpha Phi Omega and Kappa Kappa Gamma hosted 30 children, ranging from six to nine years old. The afternoon began with a game of freeze tag, followed by Duck, Duck, Goose and Red Light, Green Light. Refreshments were served.

On Friday, November 5, 2010 the women of Eta Kappa hosted its 4th Annual Win-a-Date event to fundraise for the BeLikeBrit foundation. According to the organization’s mission statement, BeLikeBrit works “to serve the children of Haiti by establishing a safe, nurturing and sustainable orphanage in an environment where they can grow, learn and thrive.” The money the sorority raised went towards building a new orphanage. Before the event began, the Greek men and women that went with each date package were asked to describe their ideal date, including the place and atmosphere. Each also chose a runway song that played while they were onstage, several using the opportunity to show off their dance moves. Various date packages, such as gift cards to Jimmy Johns or Cherry Street Restaurant, were auctioned off to the highest bidder. Members of 10 different Greek organizations volunteered their time to accompany the winner on each date. The successful auction raised approximately $1,850 dollars and the event had a large turnout.

==Highlights of 2011==

2011 began with a successful formal recruitment. On January 23rd, 2011 we welcomed 11 new members. In addition to new members, we welcomed a new advisor after Renee Tadie, our outgoing advisor, retired in 2010. Pat Kane began as the Standards Advisor in 2010, then our House Board Treasurer as well as our Event/Risk Advisor in 2011.

When we returned for Spring Term, we had an informal recruitment. This gave us the opportunity to have four new members join our chapter. The pledging ceremony was held on April 10th, 2011. During that time, the new Chapter Council was installed. Their installation was quite special because this year marks the first time Eta Kappa held the event, Kappa Kabin. Kappa Kabin is a weekend of bonding and training for both the outgoing and the incoming Chapter Council. The event was held at Stephanie Bailey’s cabin in Peoria. Stephanie Bailey has been our Finance Advisor & House Board Member since 2008, our VPO advisor, and began her role as CCA/ABC this year. Amanda Crow, who was the Vice President of Organization at the time, held the event.

When Eta Kappa returned for the new school year that September, they were excited to begin a new term of fresh opportunities. Unfortunately there was not an informal recruitment held during Fall Term. We did make the most of this term, however. Eta Kappa participated in Sigma Chi’s annual philanthropy event, Derby Days, and won the weeklong competition! Eta Kappa held their 5th annual Win-a-Date fundraiser, which allowed Eta Kappa to raise funds for the Joyful Heart Foundation. They also worked with Phi Gamma Delta to have a Light the Night event. During Fall term, there were many Kappas who studied abroad and traveled to the U.K., Argentina, and Spain.

==Highlights of 2012==

We began 2012 by welcoming eight new members into Eta Kappa chapter with a successful formal recruitment. In February, we held our annual Reading is Key event at the Galesburg Public Library. In March, we celebrated the fifth anniversary of our chapter, and it was amazing to see just how far we haveve come in such a short amount of time.

After Spring Break, we welcomed back three of our sisters who had been studying abroad in Spain and held informal recruitment, welcoming three additional sisters into our chapter. That month, we also elected our new Chapter Council, a group of strong and capable women who were installed in April. The incoming and outgoing members of Chapter Council participated in a weekend of bonding and training at our annual Kappa Kabin at Stephanie Bailey's cabin (Finance Adviser & House Board Member 2008-current, VPO Adviser 2010-11, CCA/ABC 2011-current). Amanda Crow, Vice President of Organization held the first Kappa Kabin in 2011.

In the spring, we participated in our campus's annual Greek Week, in which we won 1st place against the 11 participating Greek-letter organizations. Also in the spring of 2012, Teresa Amott, was installed as the 19th president of Knox College. It was an inspiration to our chapter and women across campus to see our 1st female president.

Fall 2012 brought out the best in Eta Kappa. When we returned to campus in the fall of 2012, we began work on our annual Win-A-Date fundraiser. Through cooperation with other Greek-letter organizations on campus, we were able to raise almost $2,000 to benefit the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America. Eta Kappa also won Sigma Chi's annual Derby Days, a friendly competition between all of the sororities on campus. Fall contineud its streak of good things as it provided our chapter with the prestige of having earned the highest GPA average that we have ever achieved as a chapter and additionally earning us the title of having the highest GPA out of all the Greek organizations for the term.

Unfortunately in the fall, Knox's Panhellenic Council voted to lower quota, so we were unable to hold informal recruitment. Since then, quota has been raised and we are excited to hold informal recruitment again in fall 2013.

==Highlights of 2013==
In February, we celebrated Academic Excellence month for the first time by collecting study tips and sharing them with the campus, promoting our academic achievements through social media, and engaging in a “Letters in the Library” competition. By the end of Winter Term, our House Chairman and her committee finished an ongoing renovation of our basement, and Eta Kappa celebrated a fun new wall color, waterproof floors, and furniture. Just before Spring Break, we initiated eight lovely new members, some of whom were elected onto Chapter Council just the next day.

Spring Term was bittersweet time for us as Eta Kappa prepared to say goodbye to 18 graduating seniors, who comprised nearly half of our chapter. Despite the major loss, this dynamic group of women made sure to leave Eta Kappa thriving. One way they did so was by teaching us to live Kappa’s ritual daily in a new ritual appreciation program.

In the spring, we won the annual Greek Week competition as well as several other chapter awards at the annual Knox College Greek Banquet. Afterwards we conveniently celebrated at our formal which was held at the Soangetaha Country Club this year. Continuing our winning streak, several members attended Province Meeting and brought home the Chapter Scholarship Award, as well as six honorable mentions.

Eta Kappa focused on a new philanthropic organization during this time, selling friendship bracelets for Vitamin Angels, which brings essential nutrition to at-risk populations. However in continuing with philanthropic traditions, this year’s annual Reading is Key event had an “outer space” theme and was held at the Discovery Depot in Galesburg.

In attempting to bond with each other and our sisters from Monmouth, we joined Alpha Deuteron Chapter at Monmouth College for a tea party at the Minnie Stewart House for an event fondly titled, Loyal-Tea.

During the spring, we also renewed the lease on our house, but never imagined what was in store for us. First, we learned Knox College graciously offered to help the Greek community by allowing us to pay our rent through community service hours, which we have already been completing through our philanthropic endeavors. In other financial news, the Treasurer of Eta Kappa took great initiative this term to create a budget for the upcoming year that would be conducive to our small chapter size, and she educated the chapter on exactly where our money goes.

When we returned to Knox in the fall, we were pleasantly surprised that one of our advisers, Pat Kane (Standards Adviser 2010-current, House Board Treasurer 2011-present, Event/Risk Adviser 2011-14), gave our chapter house a complete makeover during the summer. We could not be more thankful for our new furniture, shelving, remodeled bathrooms, and countless decorations. Although Fall was an adjustment period for Eta Kappa due to the large change in our chapter size, our sisters bonded on a deeply personal level and found a new appreciation for the changing chapter. We began the school year with informal recruitment, during which our Membership Chair implemented a completely new system by creating bump and rotation groups. Our new system also incorporated the values of our ritual into the recruitment process. We recruited and initiated three lovely new members. In October, we were lucky enough to join Alpha Deuteron chapter at Monmouth for Founders Day. We visited two of our founders' graves and shared a luncheon. For our annual Win-a-Date philanthropy event, we chose to donate our proceeds to an organization called Watts of Love, which brings solar powered lights to people around the world with no electricity. We were lucky to have the organization’s founder, Nancy Economou, at our event to speak about her incredible experiences with Watts of Love, and we ultimately raised over $2000 for the organization. Fall Term was big for Eta Kappa’s public relations: Eta Kappa now has its own Twitter and Instagram accounts, and our Kore Groups are now utilizing our Facebook page and group to attend and support “Kappas on Kampus” events and clean the house together. At the end of term, we prepared for formal recruitment.

2013 was an exciting time for Knox as well as Eta Kappa, as the college finished raising the $11.7 million needed to restore Alumni Hall, one of the oldest buildings on campus. We are excited for our younger sisters to utilize the technology and resources in this building in the future. Other exciting events for the college included bringing comedian Ed Helms to campus as our commencement speaker, witnessing a Knox graduate be named an adviser to President Obama, and welcoming President Obama himself to the campus in July, an event some of our sisters volunteered at. We feel lucky to be on a campus with so many inspiring visitors, as well as graduates who inspire us to be successful in our futures as graduates of Knox College as well.

The women of Eta Kappa continue to represent a wide variety of extracurricular activities, areas of study, philanthropic interests, athletics, and cultural backgrounds. We take great pride in supporting each other’s differences by attending shows, games, and academic presentations of our sisters. We consider ourselves to be a close-knit chapter, and hope that Eta Kappa continues on its current route of success for years to come.

==Highlights of 2014==

We began winter term like every winter term by welcoming NMs into our sisterhood after a long and grueling yet rewarding formal recruitment. This year it was appropriately themed, “Winter Wonderland.” Diverging from tradition, Bid Day/Night was on a Sunday instead of a Saturday due to the Polar Vortex. We revamped Bid Day/Night and the NM process by establishing a buddy system to welcome NMs. In February 2014, Eta Kappa hosted its annual semi-formal (at Cherry Street) and their annual Reading is Key event (theme: “Reading is Wild").

During the month of March, Knox College's National Panhellenic Council (NPC aka Panhell) hosted its first annual Wellness Week, which included participating in a clothing swap with Knox College's other NPC sororities, Delta Delta Delta; Phi Beta Phi; and Alpha Sigma Alpha. Just before spring break, we initiated our 8 NMs, some of whom were elected onto chapter council the following day during elections, proving that our chapter nurtures leaders.

Our incoming 2014-15 chapter council started spring term off by participating in a weekend filled with bonding and training at the Kappa Kabin. Kappa Kabin is a cabin that adviser, Stephanie Bailey owns in Peoria and lends to our chapter to use for Leadership Day. The first Kappa Kabin was in 2011. That following weekend, we held a continuous open bidding (COB aka informal recruitment) event themed “Spring into Kappa." We welcomed 3 additional sisters to our chapter. Alpha Deuteron Chapter of Monmouth College again invited us to attend their Love & Loyal-Tea event around the beginning of spring term.

At the end of April, Knox College's annual Greek Week was held. The theme this year was “Greek TV". Also at the end of April, Standards surprised the rest of the chapter with a secret sisterhood event at Lake Storey. We grilled hamburgers, played games, and in the lake.

In May, Eta Kappa hosted its annual formal at Cherry Street Bar and Restaurant and its annual Academic Excellence Banquet in the Common Room of Old Main.

Towards the end of spring term, we initiated our 3 new members, and said goodbye to 9 strong graduating seniors.

Returning to Knox in September, Eta Kappa focused on building sisterhood and friendship. During Homecoming at Knox College in October, we held our annual open house for alumnae to revisit the house and old times. After Homecoming, we hosted a fundraiser, Save-A-Heart (a play on the former, Win-A-Date, Eta Kappa's annual date auction themed fundraiser). Proceeds benefited the American Heart Association. Also during this time, Knox’s National Panhellenic Council hosted its 2nd annual Wellness Week (although technically the week long was held a second time in the year 2014). This time we participated in yoga and indulging on desserts with our NPC sisters. Also in October and also in good ole' Greek spirit, we participated in Sigma Chi’s Derby Days and in a dessert pot-luck with Delta Delta Delta. The memorable activities of Derby Days included pumpkin carving and a talent show. Proceeds from Derby Days benefited local non profit, Safe Harbor Family Crisis Center.

In 2014, Knox College, for the first time in 20 years, opened the doors of Alumni Hall to faculty and staff since its closing. Women's Volleyball, Women's Basketball, and Men's Basketball would similarly bring the experience of a first time in a long time by defeating rival, Monmouth College. Go Prairie Fire!

FYI: Eta Kappa Chapter hosts chapter meetings in the Kappa House located at 320 West Brooks Street during late afternoons on Sundays. The house is owned by Knox College and does not provide lodging or classroom space. The Kappa House is open daily from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM for the members of Eta Kappa Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma to use as a space for doing homework, cooking snacks or meals (baking treats for sisters!), and meetings/events.

In terms of housing the members of Eta Kappa Chapter, members often exercise the option of living together in dormitory spaces across campus and in apartments/houses off campus. These living quarters are in no way affiliated officially to Eta Kappa Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma.

==Highlights of 2015==

During the year of 2015, Eta Kappa has grown in areas that were once weak and continued a tradition of
leadership. In January, we held formal Panhellenic Recruitment. Thanks to the due diligence of our
Membership Chair and her committee, we met quota and also were given a quota addition. We were
immediately able to hold a COB event in an attempt to reach total. We welcomed 9 new members to Eta
Kappa as our Winter Formal class, the largest new member class we have had in recent history.
During February, Eta Kappa joined Nationals to hold Academic Excellence Month. Different families
competed against each other throughout the month to see which family could accrue the most study hours
in order to win a prize. The competition was fun but it’s rewarding to see the bonds built from studying
together! We also raised funds for the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation through our annual event, Kappa
Krush, which we table to have students and faculty send cans of Krush Soda to friends during the week
leading up to Valentine’s Day. Our annual Semi-Formal dance was also held in February at Cherry Street
Grill with the theme of “Every Kiss begins with Kappa”, it was a fun and safe event for all the Kappa’s and
their dates.

In March, we ended the term in full force with the initiation of our new members, our annual Reading is
Key event at the Discovery Depot, which is hold as a way to support Reading is Fundamental, and elections
for chapter council.

Early April was a time for our officer transitions. Our annual event, Kappa Kabin, was held as a way to
unite the new Chapter Council and create goals for the upcoming year. The Chapter Council for 2015-2016
hopes to increase communication and cohesion within the council in order to grow to new heights within
each position. Following the Earthquake in Nepal, we partnered with the Pi Beta Phi and held a “Pi’s and
Kappacino” event in order to give funds to the Nepali Earthquake Relief Fund. This event was very close to
our heart due to the fact the one of our sister’s is from Nepal and there is a very large Nepali population on
our campus. We were even able to raise $640! Our new philanthropy chair and her committee also created a
Little Free Library for local children with the idea of “take what you need, leave what you want”.
Throughout the term, we participated in various events that we have a tradition of being a part of such as
Greek Week, Alpha Phi Omega’s Walk-a-Thon, and Tri Delta’s Kickball event for St Jude.

We also hosted a Leadership Consultant in the Spring, we were very excited to welcome Whitney back to
our chapter!

The school year was finished off with our Formal, which was held at the Burg Bar and Grill and with our
annual Senior Sendoff event. We couldn’t be more proud of the 10 Eta Kappa seniors who graduated in
June of 2015!

Over the summer, our Public Relations chairman worked tirelessly to update our website and worked with
our Membership chair to design a great shirt for our Fall Informal Recruitment Bid Day. We also wear these
shirts to Pumphandle, an event our school holds each year prior to the beginning of classes starting where
all students, faculty, and staff meet on the lawn to shake hands.

Fall term saw lots of success for Eta Kappa. We held our most successful Fall Informal Recruitment and
welcomed 4 new members to our chapter. Our New Member Chairman held an amazing Bid Night event of
cookie decorating, games, attending the Volleyball Game on campus where one of the New Members was
playing, and ending it with a movie night at the house. Our Vice President of Standards and Standards
Committee organized a special Secret Standards event in lieu of a chapter meeting. This Secret Standards
event was our annual trip to the Pumpkin Patch! We picked out pumpkins, sipped apple cider, enjoyed a
hayride, and ended the trip riding on their mini cow train- an Eta Kappa favorite.

Our chapter also championed a new major philanthropic event called the Kappa Kolor Run! Our
Philanthropy chairman worked tirelessly to create a fun event that was accessible to our entire campus. We
were able to raise $470 dollars for OLE Nepal, an organization working to create access to education in
Nepal following the major earthquake there earlier this year. We were also selected to for the Rose McGill
Holiday program for the first time! We raised money to buy Christmas gifts for a Kappa in need and
wrapped the gifts together as our Brunch Buddies event, a new event our chapter implemented this year that
consists of our members having brunch and performing a philanthropic service.

Some other new additions to our chapter was using GINsystem to log study hours in study spaces
throughout campus as well as an attendance competition to encourage members to take active control of
their membership!

At the end of the term, we were able to initiate 3 of our 4 New Members after a successful Inspiration
Period. Eta Kappa holds the tradition of having meaningful events during the inspiration period. The
remaining member was unable to initiate at that time due to the Women’s Soccer team making it to the
Conference final which occurred during our initiation. We are happy to say, however, that Elmhurst College
was gracious in hosting our New Member and two of our active sisters and she was initiated!

Knox College was recently able to hire a new Greek Life Advisor, Eleanor Kahn. Eta Kappa was happy to
welcome her to our campus, she has been very accessible and a great resource for our chapter. Our chapter
has also been very active within the Greek community. Currently, we are the most represented organization
in Order of Omega, a National Greek Honor Society in which two of our sisters, seniors Mackenzie
Anderson and Cassidy Jones, hold the executive positions of President and Secretary, respectively. Eta
Kappa prides itself on being very well represented on Panhellenic Council as well. Senior Emily Powers is
the President of Panhellenic Council, a high honor. In the Spring, our chapter received an All Greek Award
for best Academic Program.

Eta Kappa has held itself to a higher standard than perhaps ever before. As a whole, our chapter has been
refreshed and uplifted this year. It is the opinion of our chapter that officer transitions in April brought new life to our chapter as these officers began to work together in ways that harnessed our potential. Our
members have been showing willingness to bring Kappa to new heights, as explained through the many new
endeavors throughout the year. It if for this reason that we feel we have most triumphed in overcoming
apathy and eagerly embraced new opportunities, which has allowed us to truly live up to Kappa Kappa
Gamma’s ideals.

As mentioned above, Knox College hired Eleanor Kahn. She serves as Campus Life Staff in many roles, one
of which is the Greek Life Advisor, a position that ceased to exist for a year at our school.

Chapter Philanthropy:

What organization(s) has your chapter historically/traditionally raised money for, or donated hours to, in your community?

Traditionally we fund raise for Reading is Fundamental and hold a major RIF event each Winter, which we
upheld this year. We also fund raise for the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation each Winter with our Kappa
Krush fundraiser, which is also described above. This Fall we were also chosen to participate in the Rose
McGill Holiday Program, which we enjoyed so much!

Why did your chapter choose this organization(s) to support?

An Eta Kappa tradition is to choose an organization to fundraise for each year that is near and dear to a
sister’s heart. In the past, we’ve supported sisters who suffered from Crohn’s Disease, a sister who has had
ongoing battles with Heart Disease, an orphanage that a sister worked at personally in Botswana, and more.
We raised funds for the Nepali Earthquake Relief Fund this year on two separate occasions, due to how
close the cause was to one of our sisters and the Nepalese community at Knox College. We paired in a new
event with Pi Beta Phi, Pie’s and Kappacino’s, in the spring. We also created another new major fundraising
event, the Kappa Kolor Run, as a way to replace an older, outdated event our chapter had held in the past.
We raised over $1000 in the year 2015 for the Nepali Earthquake Relief Fund and were even able to meet
the Director of the organization.

==Highlights of 2016==

For the year 2016, Eta Kappa has evolved and grown, and continued a tradition of leadership. In January, we held formal Panhellenic Recruitment. Thanks to the dedication of our Membership Chair and her committee, we met quota. We were also able to add another new member through COB immediately following bid day. We welcomed 9 new members to Eta Kappa as our Winter Formal class, the same size for a new member class that we had in 2015. During Recruitment, we had our LC Ariel there to help us out. She was very helpful as we worked to make sure all chapter members understood the procedures for voting during Recruitment.

During February, Eta Kappa joined the fraternity to hold Academic Excellence Month. Every member competed to earn points by sending pictures of themselves studying to their academic liaisons. A lot of members became very involved with it and it was great PR for Kappa on campus. The spirit of competition was fun, but it’s rewarding to see the growth in study habits that our VPAE was able to foster. We also raised funds for the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation through our annual event, Kappa Krush, where we table to have students and faculty send cans of Krush Soda to friends during the week leading up to Valentine’s Day. We raised over $100 for the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation. Our annual Semi-Formal dance was also held in February at Iron Spike; it was a fun and safe event for all the Kappa’s and their dates.

In March, we ended the term in full force with the initiation of our new members, our annual Reading is Key event at the Galesburg Public Library, which is our way of supporting Reading is Fundamental, and elections for chapter council right before the end of our Winter Term.

Early April was a time for our officer transitions. Our annual event, Kappa Kabin, was held as a way to unite the new Chapter Council and create goals for the upcoming year. The Chapter Council for 2016-2017 hopes to increase communication and cohesion within the council in order to grow to new heights within each position. Accountability has become a main priority for the Eta Kappa Chapter Council.

Throughout the term, we participated in various events that we have a tradition of being a part of such as Greek Week, Alpha Phi Omega’s Walk-a-Thon, and Tri Delta’s Kickball event for St Jude's.

We also held an informal recruitment event, and we were able to get 4 new members, which brought us to total. We held our initiation at the end of our Spring Term to bring our chapter to 40 members right before our senior class graduated. The school year was finished off with our Formal, which was held at the event hall 156 Main and with our annual Senior Sendoff event.

Over the summer, our VP Standards represented us at Convention in San Diego, CA. She brought back many ideas that other chapters have used to improve accountability as well as some good ideas for sisterhood events,

Coming back for the fall, we did not hold an informal recruitment event because we were above total. This was the first time in recent memory that Eta Kappa has been the biggest sorority at Knox. Since we did not have new members, our focus has been on improving chapter support and bonding as a whole group so we can successfully welcome new members in January. Our diversity chairman has put together many events to help us foster a better understanding of each other.

Our chapter also championed a major philanthropic event for the second time called the Kappa Kolor Run! Our Philanthropy chairman worked tirelessly to create a fun event that was accessible to our entire campus. We were able to raise $430 dollars for the Alzheimer’s Association. We selected this philanthropy because two of our members have a grandmother who is dealing with Alzheimer’s and we always choose a philanthropy that is near and dear to our members. We are there for each other to lift one another up and make the world a better place.

We wrapped up our fall term with some membership workshops and the selection of day chairs for recruitment so that we can go all out when we return to campus in January for Formal Recruitment.

Our chapter has also been very active within the Greek community. Currently, we are the most represented organization in Order of Omega, a National Greek Honor Society in which one of our sisters, Allie Whitehill, is the Vice President.. Eta Kappa prides itself on being very well represented on Panhellenic Council as well. Junior Maggie Brick is the Vice President of Panhellenic Council and served as the interim President in the Spring of 2016. Six of our sisters were a part of the Women’s Soccer team that went to the NCAA Tournament for the first time in school history. We were all so proud to cheer them all on in their historic run to an undefeated conference season.

This year, another sorority transitioned to a house this year. Now that Alpha Sigma Alpha has a house, every sorority on campus does. We hope this will help us boost interest in formal recruitment and allow all of the chapters to grow simultaneously. The Greek community has been working hard to come together as a whole and make itself a presence on campus that is seen in a positive light. As a whole, the Greek community has help more philanthropy events than ever before.

Our chapter has evolved as always, but our focus on academics has been rapidly improving. We had the highest sorority GPA for both Winter and Spring of 2016 and we are very proud of that. The academic excellence committee has been working hard and it has paid off. We have also been working on lifting each other up as women. In a world that sometimes pits women against each other, it is important to us that we as a chapter lift each other up and support one another. Many of our members were deeply saddened by the election results, but it has given us a new drive to stand up for womankind.

Traditionally we fund raise for Reading is Fundamental and hold a major RIF event each Winter, which we upheld this year. We also fund raise for the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation each winter with our Kappa Krush fundraiser, which is also described above. We also support St. Jude’s through Tri Delta kickball tournaments and the DHOP event, as well as Pi Phi’s Literacy Organization through Pie a Pi Phi.

==Highlights of 2017==

Eta Kappa began the calendar year with Formal Recruitment, where we were happy to receive seven new members as our sisters, one of whom is a Kappa legacy. Our recruitment theme was The Wizard of Oz, which included the tagline “There’s No Place Like Home.” Our Bid Night theme was “Under the Sea,” subtitled “Darling It’s Better Wearing Our Letters.” Big-Little Reveal was done via matching socks between the pairs and was done before formal pledging on January 22nd. Our formal class was initiated on March 4th, with our chapter adviser and three alumnae in attendance. As it happened, initiation was the same day as our chapter’s 10th anniversary. As part of the celebration, Fraternity President Beth Black surprised us with balloons and cake during a visit at chapter on March 5th. Our academic performance winter term was phenomenal. We boasted an average 3.33 GPA among our members, which was 0.1 points above the all-women average and 0.2 points above the all-sorority average. Six of our members had 4.0s. Our winter semi-formal took place at 156 East in Galesburg, Illinois and had a 1920’s Kappa Kappa Gatsby theme. We were also proud to install a member from Alpha chapter into our own chapter during the winter. Spring term was especially busy for Eta Kappa, as we hosted “Wild for Kappa” informal recruitment events to start the term, and we welcomed four new members. Bid Night was “Under the Sea with KKG” and Big-Little Reveal was done by the pairs finding someone with a matching item, such as big holding cookies and their little holding milk, or a lock and key, etc. Formal pledging for the spring new member class took place on April 19th and they were initiated on May 20th. One alumna was in attendance. As part of our transition into a new Chapter Council, one of our sisters hosted an overnight Kappa Kabin on April 29th to allow the new CC to bond with each other and discuss goals for our chapter and ourselves. Our annual Reading is Key event took place at the Galesburg Public Library on May 20th, where we distributed children’s books to the Galesburg community and hosted craft tables for the kids. Our Academic Excellence banquet took place on May 17th. Professors that had significant positive impact on academics for our members were invited, where we celebrated them as well as the achievements of individuals in our chapter. 2 members were initiated into our campus’ chapter of Order of Omega. Formal was at the Watson Legacy Center in Galesburg, Illinois Unfortunately, we had to say goodbye to our nine graduating seniors with a Senior Send-Off, which featured letters written for and by seniors, and their graduation stoles were presented to them at this time.

Fall term has been incredibly busy for many individual members, as Eta Kappa is made up of a large number of fall athletes, who participate in soccer, volleyball, tennis, and cross country at Knox College. We are especially proud of our members on the soccer team, who made it to the NCAA Division III Regionals Tournament for the second year in a row! We were fortunate enough to invite two new members to our chapter this term through a continuous open bid process, and while they formally pledged on October 8th, they will join our new member class of winter 2018 for initiation due to conflicts between athletic schedules as well as complications planning initiation through another chapter, who was holding their initiation while finals were taking place at Knox. Eta Kappa attended a workshop for sororities hosted by the campus Greek Life adviser and Title IX Coordinator to discuss sexual assault and how we can effectively intervene when we see incidents where someone might be endangered or vulnerable. Two members were initiated into our campus’ chapter of Order of Omega, bringing our total number of Kappas in Order of Omega up to six. We were proud to host our annual Kappa Kolor Run on October 8th with Alpha chapter, which benefitted the Rose McGill Aid Foundation. We look forward to what the next year will bring to Eta Kappa and the Fraternity." Reading is Key: a community outreach event that seeks to distribute as many books as possible to children in Galesburg in order promote lifelong learning and literacy in accordance with the goals of Reading is Fundamental. Our philanthropies include, Kappa Kolor Run: an annual 5K in the fall, proceeds of which benefit a particular charity or service each year as decided by the chapter. For example, Kolor Run 2017 benefitted hurricane relief through the Rose McGill Aid Foundation due to the devastation of Texas, Florida, and Puerto Rico. Kolor Run 2016 benefitted the Alzheimer’s Foundation because two sisters had recently lost a family member to Alzheimer’s. Kappa Krush: sales of Orange Krush soda benefit the Rose McGill Aid Foundation annually. Brunch Buddies: recurring event every academic term where chapter members make something to benefit other organizations. Past examples include writing letters to our representatives or crafting cards for veterans. Pis and Kappacinos: a collaborative philanthropy event with the Beta-Delta chapter of Pi Beta Phi. Occurs occasionally when our schedules work together. In the past, this event has benefitted Nepal’s Earthquake Relief because at the time we had a sister that was Nepali. A charity that we benefit for this event is typically chosen with the Pi Phis.

Eta Kappa meets in our non-residential house for chapter at 320 W. Brooks Street, Galesburg, IL 61401. Pictured below is where we hold chapter, though it does double as a living room where members study and socialize.

==Highlights of 2018==

For the year 2018, Eta Kappa has evolved and grown--continuing a tradition of leadership and starting a new tradition of inclusivity. In January, we held Primary Panhellenic Recruitment. Thanks to the hard work of our Membership Chair and her committee, we met quota. We welcomed 10 new members to Eta Kappa as our Winter Formal class, with the addition of two from the fall term COBs. Our overall theme for recruitment was “Key to Paradise” and recruitment was held over three nights rather than the usual four nights. The new members were welcomed into the house for Bid Night under the theme “How Sweet it is to be a Kappa.” In total, the four sororities saw an increase in potential new members which is exciting for the growth of our chapter. The new class officially pledged on January 28th with our chapter specialist and one alumna present.
February was busy, starting with Academic Excellence. Eta Kappa joined the fraternity to hold Academic Excellence Month and every member in Eta Kappa competed to earn points by sending pictures of themselves studying to their academic liaisons. A lot of members became very involved with AE and it was great PR for Kappa on campus. The hashtags #kkggenius and #kkgscholar could be seen all over Knox via Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. On February 5th, our Big-Little Reveal was held. To match bigs and littles, we put a curtain between pairs of socks and when the curtain dropped, each member found her match. Also during February, we raised funds for the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation through our annual event, Kappa Krush. Students and faculty sent cans of Crush Soda to friends during the week leading up to Valentine’s Day. We raised over $100 for the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation. Semi-Formal dance was also held in February at Galesburg Civic Arts Center with the theme “A Night at the Musuem.”
March came and we initiated our Winter and Fall term pledge classes on the 3rd. We then held elections for Chapter Council before the end of winter term. The weekend after spring break, Eta Kappa was fortunate enough to host “Behind Happy Faces,” a program that brings awareness to mental health issues.

In early April, Eta Kappa held a leadership weekend with the help of our district specialist. The weekend consisted of old and new CC sharing ideas on how to improve our leadership within our Chapter. It was made a priority at this leadership weekend to communicate as often as possible with each other and our respective specialists.
Reading is Fundamental was held on May 3rd at Steele Elementary School. This year, our philanthropy chairman coordinated with the school to have us read with the students during their usual library time. The event was a success! Kids were delighted when they found out they would be able to take a book--donated by Kappa--and a bookmark home. Formal took place on May 17th at the Prairie Players Civic Theatre with the
theme "A Night in Old Hollywood." May 26th we said goodbye to our lovely 10 seniors with our Senior Send-off Brunch.
Over the summer, our President and Event Chairman represented us at the Convention in Denver, CO. They brought back many ideas that other chapters have used to improve efficiency and accountability within the chapter.

Fall term is always a hectic time for Eta Kappa as our sisters are involved in many different organizations on campus. We had sisters on the women’s soccer team and volleyball team, student teaching and participating in Rep Term. We unfortunately were unable to get new members during fall term and instead focused on strengthening our sisterhood and fostering an appreciation for ritual.

On November 3rd our major philanthropic event Kappa Kolor Run was held. This was our most successful philanthropic event to this date as we raised over a thousand dollars. Our philanthropy chairman worked tirelessly to put on this event and incorporated a silent auction, which was made possible by local businesses in Galesburg. She also changed the route of the color run to make it more of a community event than a Knox event. All proceeds were donated to the multiple sclerosis foundation. Each year Eta Kappa donates to a cause that hits close to home--this year we picked this foundation because our philanthropy chairman’s best friend was recently diagnosed with MS.
We wrapped up our fall term by hosting an LC and attending a sexual assault workshop. Elections were again held for the new Exec Board, as Eta Kappa is moving towards the new pilot structure. Transitions will not happen until mid February.

Our chapter has also been very active within the Greek community. Currently, we are represented in Order of Omega, a National Greek Honor Society in which one of our sisters, Megan Koluch, is the President. Eta Kappa prides itself on being very well represented on Panhellenic Council as well. Sophomore Danny Cerna Nunez served as Vice President of Diversity for the Panhellenic Council during the Spring and Fall terms, and senior Danielle Ellis is taking over the position for the Winter Term of 2019. Six of our sisters were a part of the Women’s Soccer team that went to the NCAA Tournament for the third consecutive year.
As a chapter that prides ourselves on academics, we were happy to see our term GPA at its best in the fall with an average GPA of 3.34. Seven sisters made Dean’s List and three of those sisters had 4.0s. Our average term GPA was 0.16 points better than the all-Greek average.

Due to our growing chapter, Eta Kappa is looking for a new place to hold chapters to accommodate our needs. At the moment, chapter is held at our non-residential house (pictured below) at 320 W. Brooks Street, Galesburg, IL 61401 at 5:00 P.M. on Sundays.

==Highlights of 2018==

For the year 2018, Eta Kappa has evolved and grown--continuing a tradition of leadership and starting a new tradition of inclusivity. In January, we held Primary Panhellenic Recruitment. Thanks to the hard work of our Membership Chair and her committee, we met quota. We welcomed 10 new members to Eta Kappa as our Winter Formal class, with the addition of two from the fall term COBs. Our overall theme for recruitment was “Key to Paradise” and recruitment was held over three nights rather than the usual four nights. The new members were welcomed into the house for Bid Night under the theme “How Sweet it is to be a Kappa.” In total, the four sororities saw an increase in potential new members which is exciting for the growth of our chapter. The new class officially pledged on January 28th with our chapter specialist and one alumna present.

February was busy, starting with Academic Excellence. Eta Kappa joined the fraternity to hold Academic Excellence Month and every member in Eta Kappa competed to earn points by sending pictures of themselves studying to their academic liaisons. A lot of members became very involved with AE and it was great PR for Kappa on campus. The hashtags #kkggenius and #kkgscholar could be seen all over Knox via Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. On February 5th, our Big-Little Reveal was held. To match bigs and littles, we put a curtain between pairs of socks and when the curtain dropped, each member found her match. Also during February, we raised funds for the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation through our annual event, Kappa Krush. Students and faculty sent cans of Crush Soda to friends during the week leading up to Valentine’s Day. We raised over $100 for the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation. Semi-Formal dance was also held in February at Galesburg Civic Arts Center with the theme “A Night at the Musuem.”

March came and we initiated our Winter and Fall term pledge classes on the 3rd. We then held elections for Chapter Council before the end of winter term. The weekend after spring break, Eta Kappa was fortunate enough to host “Behind Happy Faces,” a program that brings awareness to mental health issues.

In early April, Eta Kappa held a leadership weekend with the help of our district specialist. The weekend consisted of old and new CC sharing ideas on how to improve our leadership within our Chapter. It was made a priority at this leadership weekend to communicate as often as possible with each other and our respective specialists.

Reading is Fundamental was held on May 3rd at Steele Elementary School. This year, our philanthropy chairman coordinated with the school to have us read with the students during their usual library time. The event was a success! Kids were delighted when they found out they would be able to take a book--donated by Kappa--and a bookmark home. Formal took place on May 17th at the Prairie Players Civic Theatre with the theme "A Night in Old Hollywood." May 26th we said goodbye to our lovely 10 seniors with our Senior Send-off Brunch.

[[File:[[File:Example.jpg]]]]==Highlights of 2019==

In January we held Formal Recruitment with the theme based on the Disney Pixar movie “Up” and were very excited to gain 10 new members. The theme of Bid Night was “Beyoncé” and was full of laughter and chatting and getting to know our soon-to-be-sisters.

February kicked off our Academic Excellence month during which members are encouraged to promote our value of academics by getting together with sisters to study and share photos while doing so with the hashtags “#kkgenius” and “#kkgscholar.” Our new members found out who their Big sisters would be at our Big-Little Reveal on February 2nd. We held our Semi-Formal dance on February 9th at the Visions Venue in Galesburg. Also in February, we diverged from the old Kappa Krush fundraiser and started selling Kappa Kards to raise money for the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation. We handmade the Kards with witty Valentine’s Day sayings and even some with “Galentine’s Day” and other nontraditional Valentine’s Day cards for Knox students to give to their friends and loved ones.

In March we held our first Diversity Dialogue which is very important to our chapter in order to ensure that Kappa is a safe place where everyone should feel welcome and included no matter who they are. We discussed difficult questions about race and socioeconomic status as well as ways for sisters with significant privilege to use that privilege to advocate for others who weren’t born with that same advantage.

Greek Week, a week promoting collaboration and support across all fraternities and sororities on Knox’s campus, took place April 28th-May 4th. At the Greek Week Banquet, Eta Kappa was presented with the awards for Best Philanthropy, Best New Member, and Sorority Member of the Year.

On May 11th we had our Formal dance which had the theme of “Light Up the Night.” On May 17th, we had the Reading is Fundamental event at Steele Elementary in which the students made bookmarks, received books and other school supplies, and read aloud their own short stories that they had written for class. On May 18th, we said goodbye to our lovely seniors through our Senior Send-off Brunch. On May 19th, we conducted a Hygiene Drive in which we had a table outside of Hy-Vee and collected cash and product donations. We raised over $200 in cash and filled two laundry baskets full of hygiene products such as soap, hair products, shaving products, deodorant, menstrual products, and dental products.

On September 12-15th, one of our sisters attended the Leadership Conference in Ohio and brought back lots of insight from what other chapters do and how we can make Eta Kappa more efficient in some ways.

Starting in August we had many athletes arrive on campus early to begin their seasons. We are very proud of all of our sisters who are involved in extracurriculars such as the dance group TERP, Honor Board, Study Abroad (we have one sister who was in Germany for fall term), and research projects.

We kicked off the month of October with Informal Recruitment on the 3rd through the 5th during which we gained 1 new member. We then, through COB, gained another new member and are very happy to have 2 new members who are already contributing so much to Eta Kappa. Also in October, we hosted an incredible Leadership Consultant, Emma Schlenker, who, among other things, helped us get ready to select a new executive board through our newly assembled Nominating Committee. Also in October, at a Chapter meeting near Dia de los Muertos, one sister prepared a highly interesting and informative presentation about the holiday and the history of its celebration to share with all of our members.

On November 2nd, we hosted a Homecoming open house for our Alumnae who returned to campus for Homecoming Weekend. We mingled and listened to their stories of their time in Kappa while at Knox. On November 9th, we held the Kappa Kolor Run through which we raised over $600 for the Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research. Two of our sisters have been deeply impacted by pancreatic cancer in their loved ones so this cause was very close to home for our Chapter. Later this month, we had a Diversity event in which sisters took turns sharing about themselves, at whatever level they were comfortable with, using a cord that they rolled up as they spoke in order to give everyone the same amount of time to talk. Lastly, we installed our new officers at the last Formal Chapter meeting of the term and we are all very excited to take our positions and run with them going into 2020.

Throughout 2019, we did “Learn About a Sister” during selected Chapter meetings in which one sister would share for about 5 minutes about herself and her background. We value sisterhood and love learning about each and every member of Eta Kappa."
Over the summer, our President and Event Chairman represented us at the Convention in Denver, CO. They brought back many ideas that other chapters have used to improve efficiency and accountability within the chapter.

Fall term is always a hectic time for Eta Kappa as our sisters are involved in many different organizations on campus. We had sisters on the women’s soccer team and volleyball team, student teaching and participating in Rep Term. We unfortunately were unable to get new members during fall term and instead focused on strengthening our sisterhood and fostering an appreciation for ritual.

On November 3rd our major philanthropic event Kappa Kolor Run was held. This was our most successful philanthropic event to this date as we raised over a thousand dollars. Our philanthropy chairman worked tirelessly to put on this event and incorporated a silent auction, which was made possible by local businesses in Galesburg. She also changed the route of the color run to make it more of a community event than a Knox event. All proceeds were donated to the multiple sclerosis foundation. Each year Eta Kappa donates to a cause that hits close to home--this year we picked this foundation because our philanthropy chairman’s best friend was recently diagnosed with MS.

We wrapped up our fall term by hosting an LC and attending a sexual assault workshop. Elections were again held for the new Exec Board, as Eta Kappa is moving towards the new pilot structure. Transitions will not happen until mid February.

Our chapter has also been very active within the Greek community. Currently, we are represented in Order of Omega, a National Greek Honor Society in which one of our sisters, Megan Koluch, is the President. Eta Kappa prides itself on being very well represented on Panhellenic Council as well. Senior Dani Ellis is the Vice President of Panhellenic Council Diversity. Six of our sisters were a part of the Women’s Soccer team that went to the NCAA Tournament for the third consecutive year.

As a chapter that prides ourselves on academics, we were happy to see our term GPA at its best in the fall with an average GPA of 3.34. Seven sisters made Dean’s List and three of those sisters had 4.0s. Our average term GPA was 0.16 points better than the all-Greek average.

Two of our sisters have immediate family members who have been affected by pancreatic cancer. One sister actually had to leave campus for over a week during this term in order to go be with her mother as she was going through treatment, therefore we support the Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research.
.
We were not able to celebrate Founders Day this year. We had plans to join with the Alpha Deuteron chapter at Monmouth College to celebrate, however our schedule became too busy and we decided it was in our best interest as a chapter to simply recognize Founders Day but abstain from any celebratory events until next term when we plan to celebrate both Founders Day & Kappa’s 150th anniversary."
Due to our growing chapter, Eta Kappa is looking for a new place to hold chapters to accommodate our needs. At the moment, chapter is held at our non-residential house at 320 W. Brooks Street, Galesburg, IL 61401 at 5:00 P.M. on Sundays. On October 14th, we were lucky enough to be the second stop for the Minnie Stewart Van after starting in Monmouth the day before. We got to enjoy the VR activities and learned so much from going through the van and speaking with the “Vanbassadors.” In 2020, we plan to take a field trip to Monmouth College to take a tour of the Stewart House, see the stained glass window in the chapel, and visit the founders’ graves in the cemetery.

Eta Kappa’s overall nature is an energetic and optimistic one. We are small in numbers but excited for Formal Recruitment in January 2020 to bring in new members who can help us reach our goals and surpass expectations of what a small chapter can accomplish.

==Highlights of 2020==

In January we held Formal Recruitment with the theme based on flowers and were very excited to gain 7 new members. Throughout recruitment we did lots of events in order to strengthen our relationships with the PNM’s going through recruitment. One event that stuck out was decorating book bags in order to give it to the children we go and read books to for our event for Reading is Fundamental. The theme of Bid Night was “ Kappa Coachella” and was full of laughter and chatting and getting to know our soon-to-be-sisters.
February kicked off our Academic Excellence month during which members are encouraged to promote our value of academics by getting together with sisters to study and share photos while doing so with the hashtags “#kkgenius” and “#kkgscholar.” Our new members found out who their Big sisters would be at our Big-Little Reveal on February 2nd. We held our Semi-Formal dance on February 21st at the restaurant Charred 57 in Galesburg. Rather than a dance, like we usually have, this was a sit down dinner. It was a very fun opportunity to really get to know our sisters on a deeper level and to have fun and get dressed up.
In March, we diverged from our normal tradition of doing Kappa cards and Kappa Krush and decided to do a bigger event for the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation. We put together the idea to do Mac and Keys. During this event we sold Mac and cheese, both regular and vegan options. We held this event on campus and it ended up being extremely successful. We had a topping bar with lots of different toppings that students and faculty could put on their mac and cheese.
Due to COVID-19 our last official event in person was Mac and Keys. Due to COVID we were also not able to participate in our normal event supporting Reading is Fundamental. The end of the year until summer consisted of lots of meetings and sisterhood events online and doing our best to keep our members engaged and making the best of the pandemic. In August, we got to return to school, however, due to restrictions and even though we were on campus, we had to meet half online and half in person. Our members who normally were involved in athletics got their seasons cancelled or postponed. Our members who were involved in other clubs as well as student teaching had meetings and classes that looked a lot different then what they were used to. Although this was a change the Kappa spirit was still very much alive.

In June, our President, Michaela Thawley, was able to take part in the 150 year convention for Kappa Kappa Gamma. This was very exciting and interesting because due to the impact of covid-19, the convention wasn’t able to meet in person, however, they made the most of the situation and put on an amazing event online.
On November 15th, we had the idea to sell masks for our campus in order to raise money for Ovarian Cancer due to the light of the pandemic. Although we could only meet in small groups we found a way to split up into groups and Tie dye masks, wash them, dry them, and organize them. We also figured out a way to do a contactless delivery so that we could keep clear of COVID-19. This event was something we had never done before, however, ended up working really well for us. We were also able to make a sisterhood event out of tie dying masks, while socially distancing ourselves. Due to COVID-19 our chapter was advised not participate in Informal Recruitment. As well as our homecoming this year was all virtual, so we were not able to have any of our Alumna come to campus. Towards the end of the term we were able to take part in elections and elect a whole new E-Board. Since we left campus shortly after this event, we are eagerly waiting for news of whether or not we will be able to return to campus again. However, our E-board is actively doing things to engage and help our members through these trying times.
Throughout 2020 ETA Kappa really strived to educate ourselves on diversity and inclusion in order to maintain an inclusive environment both within our chapter and on campus.

Our chapter chose Reading is Fundamental, Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation, and Ovarian Cancer research as our philanthropies this year. We chose to support Ovarian Cancer research, because one of our sister's immediate family members was affected by Ovarian Cancer. This cause was very important to both her as well as her family, so our chapter voted on making our fundraiser an event for Ovarian Cancer Research.

Our chapter was one of the first chapters to implement a diversity and inclusion officer. Usually we hold one event per term having to do with diversity and inclusion. However, due to the pandemic, rather than doing in person events we decided to take part in the social media awareness campaign. We posted ways for our followers to educate themselves on diversity and inclusion as well as ways we could donate as well as sign petitions. In our chapter we have also implemented chapter trainings as well as talks about diversity and inclusion.

Before we left campus we were one of the first schools to have the Kappa Van come to campus and present to our chapter. Our whole chapter turned in for the celebration video online. We also talked about our favorite Kappa memories the chapter after the celebration. On our instagram we were able to post the whole day and do quizzes about kappa. We also had members share their favorite memories and pin dress online. Although we were not in person we did our best to celebrate this amazing accomplishment online.

==Highlights or 2021==

This year our chapter managed to stay involved in a number of activities and gaining achievements while still experiencing the pandemic. We managed to make and sell masks to support ovarian cancer. While promoting the importance of health and social distancing, we were able to raise over $250.00. Four of our members achieved a perfect 4.0 GPA for Winter and Spring term. Our chapter as a whole also won an award for having the highest GPA for Greek Life (FSL LIFE) on campus and second highest for all campus clubs. We were also able to donate books for RIF to a local elementary school. When we formed as a new executive team we had a few key goals for our chapter really get us started. Those goals were to be more organized, communicate better with our Specialists, and build a more closely connected chapter regardless of the pandemic. Throughout the year we developed more goals like member retention with a hyper focus n recruitment. Overall we feel that we have really met these goals. We implemented weekly Sisterhoods, and once a month ritual reviews in order for our members to really feel connected to each other and to the history of Kappa. Our Specialists and advisers have been sent our weekly chapter meeting minutes, and we have had more frequent meetings with our non-council officers. Going into the new year I truly feel like our chapter is in a much better place and is growing in many ways.

We try to support local school reading fundraisers as well as Blessings in a Backpack. this organization helps to feed 400 students in Galesburg over each weekend. As a chapter we try to help to pack bags (when allowed in person) as well as add volunteer time In whatever ways are needed. We also collect plastic bags and donate to the organization for packing the food . This is a huge need in the Galesburg community, and we feel that as a chapter, it is important to help.

W held a fundraiser event that asked for donations to Kappa Kappa Gamma. We raised over $700.00 for the Kappa Foundation. Those who donated had their name put into a drawing for advertised prizes.

We implemented a position for a DEI Director this year. They could not have done a better job! We had multiple trainings and workshops brought to u virtually as well as in-person. We held a diversity potluck supper within our chapter that allowed us to experience other members' cultures and their childhood favorite meals.

We began the year with all chapter and Sisterhood events held online. While our school had us learning from home until February, recruitment and Initiation were all done virtually online. We still met once a week online for chapter meetings and Sisterhoods. Once we returned to school in person we were able to use classrooms to hold chapter meetings, Sisterhoods, and other events that could fit within the public health guidelines during the time our house could not accommodate it. Now we are back in our Chapter House per campus occupancy rates and have returned to our new normal.

Zeta Epsilon

2022-01-03T21:29:44Z

Epsilon Specialist: /* Highlights of 2020 */

{{Infobox Fraternity
|Name= Zeta Epsilon
|GreekSymbol= ZE
|Image= [[File:Zeta_Epsilon.jpg|200px]]
|Founded= {{start date and years ago|1981|10|24}}
|College= [https://www.lawrence.edu/ Lawrence University]
|Location= Appleton, WI
|Homepage= [https://lawrence.kappa.org/ Zeta Epsilon Homepage]
|Media= [https://wiki.kkg.org/index.php?title=Category:Zeta_Epsilon Media related to Zeta Epsilon Chapter]}}
----

'''Founded October 24, 1981'''

'''Lawrence University founded in 1847 in Appleton, Wisconsin'''

'''10 charter members'''

'''Total Initiates: 445 initiates (as of June 2018)'''

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'''Some of Chapter’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:'''
Tiffany Pannier Horton Province Director of Chapters 2010-2014, District Director 2016-2018, Fraternity Vice President 2018-2020

'''Fraternity Loyalty Award Recipients:'''

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

==Establishment of Zeta Epsilon==

During the weekend of April 23–25, 1981, Zeta Epsilon was colonized at Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisconsin. The university is a merger of Downer Women’s College in Milwaukee and Lawrence College in Appleton and is a small, private, liberal arts institution. At the time of Zeta Epsilon’s founding, the campus had 1,100 students.

Lawrence has a picturesque setting with graceful, limestone academic buildings and residential halls overlooking the Fox River. A magnificent memorial chapel inspires the compact campus and the quaint residential community in downtown Appleton. Paper mills line the Fox River, which cuts through the center of town.

Among other strengths, Lawrence University’s Conservatory of Music attracts many students. The Greek system is small but strong, and demand was high among the women’s groups for a new chapter to join the campus. Panhellenic voted in the fall of 1980 to form an extension committee to research national groups and asked four to give a presentation in February of 1981.

Fraternity President Sally Moore Nitschke, Beta Nu—Ohio State, traveled to Appleton in February to make the presentation to the Panhellenic and the extension committee along with representatives from Pi Beta Phi, Kappa Alpha Theta and Delta Gamma. The following month, Kappa was notified that it had been selected as the fourth sorority to join Lawrence University. Colonization Recruitment began the week of April 21–25 under the direction of Marjorie Converse, Gamma Delta—Purdue, Chairman of Extension. The colonization team also included Barbara Laitner, Beta Mu—Colorado, 1978–80 Field Secretary; Cathi Gelhaar, Epsilon PDA; Nancy Laitner, Diane Delayo and Talby Hardy, 1980–81 Field Secretaries; Cathy Harrison, Laurie Schmidt and Lynn Atkinson, Eta—Wisconsin, members. Other Eta actives and Fox River Alumnae Association members also participated.

On Thursday evening, a reception was held in the Gold Room in Downer Hall on campus. Punch, cookies and a slideshow were enjoyed in addition to the beautiful singing by Eta members. Potential new members signed up for interviews to be held the next day. On Saturday, a colonization luncheon was held in Colman Hall and all of the young women were presented with invitations to membership. To the thrill of everyone in the room, they accepted their bids unanimously! A short pledging service followed and the remainder of the day was spent taking pictures, singing Kappa songs and giving many hugs.

==Installation of Zeta Epsilon==
The charter members were a diverse and multi-talented group with women from many states including Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Michigan, Kentucky and Wisconsin. Rugby, photography, tennis, politics, advertising, math, psychology, vocal performance and theatre are few of the interests. Diane Delayo and Talby Hardy stayed with the colony until June. Sheila Cloyes, Beta Mu—Colorado, was appointed their Graduate Counselor to help prepare them for Installation in the fall and assist in making their first official year as a chapter successful.

Zeta Epsilon Chapter was installed at the local Masonic Temple on October 24, 1981. Fraternity President Sally Moore Nitschke, and Marjorie Moree Keith, Gamma Alpha—Kansas State, Director of Philanthropies, were the installing officers. Graduate Counselor Sheila Cloyes, Beta Mu—Colorado, and Field Secretary Wendy Paxton, Epsilon Omega—Dickinson, joined by Province Directors Cathy Bernotas Gelhaar, Epsilon—Illinois Wesleyan, and Jane Weinhagen Ullom, Epsilon Zeta—Florida State, assisted in making the weekend memorable. Local alumnae on various committees helped make the weekend a success.

Alumnae and active chapters from Epsilon Province greeted the new chapter with many lovely gifts, and members of Eta—Wisconsin, served as big sisters while visitors from Upsilon—Northwestern, and Alpha Deuteron—Monmouth, also participated. Barbara Laitner, Beta Mu—Colorado, former Field Secretary, served as toastmistress for the banquet held at Dower Hall where Lawrence President Warch’s comments reflected interest and optimistic commitment to sororities on campus.

The new Kappas were a diverse group, which included the cheerleading captain, student body president, an opera major, a rugby player and a language major who spoke Russian. Zeta Epsilon was off to a great start!

==The Early Years==
In 1981, Kappa Kappa Gamma joined three other thriving sororities on the Lawrence University campus - Delta Gamma, Kappa Alpha Theta, and Pi Beta Phi. All of the sororities were strong on Lawrence’s little campus, and pledge classes were always 20 or more girls each year. Kappa Klans of five or six sisters each were created to help members get to know one another. Zeta Epsilon held ice cream socials, bowling parties, a pumpkin walk, and cookouts to get to know each other. Use of correct Kappa ritual and sisterhoods were great strengths of this new chapter. They established Kappa Krush (selling Orange Crush sodas with a note to be delivered to your crush) and Kappa Grab-a-Date events. In 1987 Kappa had the highest GPA on campus and were at quota for membership totals.

===Highlights of the 1990s===

Membership in all sororities at Lawrence University dropped in the 1990s, and sadly Pi Phi disappeared from campus. 1994 - 1995 were tough years. There were attitude challenges, and Zeta Epsilon held a fall retreat to try to get things back on track. A lot of time and effort was expended by the VP Standards at this time. They established a chapter goal of SALSA - Sisterhood, Academics, Leadership, Social Activities.

Zeta Epsilon held Round Robins, Kappa Krush parties, Pledge Formals, mixers, cookouts, tailgates, Shish-Ka-Quad parties, Panel/IFC picnics, Pumpkin Walks, Halloween seances, Murder Mystery parties, camping retreats, and Blue and Blue Dinners. They also participated in intermurals and activities with other sororities and fraternities. Many hours were volunteered for the Fox Valley Domestic Abuse Center and the Children’s Booth at Celebrate. January 1999 brought a formal recruitment that yielded no new members, and a time of revamping and reorganization began.

By the next school year, Kappa was first on campus in GPA, and they had a very successful Karamel Apple Sale to benefit the Fox Valley Domestic Abuse Center. Greeks now comprised 20% of the campus population.

==Highlights of 2000-2010==
By the turn of the century, Lawrence University had 1,400 intellectually curious, diverse, multi-interested students from nearly every state and 50 countries, with 4 fraternities and 3 sororities: Beta Theta Pi, Delta Gamma, Delta Tau Delta, Kappa Alpha Theta, Kappa Kappa Gamma, Phi Kappa Tau, and Sigma Phi Epsilon. The campus is divided into two parts, the Conservatory of Music and the regular college. A great number of students study at the Conservatory, but many also pursue degrees from both the Conservatory and the college.

Members of the Zeta Epsilon chapter represented all areas of academia from vocal performance and art history to classics and physics. Zeta Epsilon continually celebrates diversity and independence in conjunction with bonding as sisters in the Fraternity. Kappas participate on a broad scale in nearly every aspect of the Lawrence community. Proof of deep involvement is evident in the variety of extracurricular activities, including SOUP (Student Organization for University Programming), Mock Trial, Baroque Ensemble, Gaming Club (a community for gamers, dedicated to creating an inclusive, fun, friendly group for any Lawrentians who share a passion for card, board, video games and beyond!), Lawrence International (aims to help international students adjust to life at Lawrence and provide a forum for international and domestic students to meet and engage in conversation on world issues), Mortar Board, Sustainable Lawrence University Gardens (SLUG), Women in Physics, to name several. Members of KKG take leadership roles in their many organizations and sports, representing Viking athletics in crew, cross country, swim, tennis, track and field, basketball, and soccer.

During this decade Zeta Epsilon hosted and participated in many events to raise money for the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation, Reading Is Fundamental, and our local philanthropy, Harbor House, a safe shelter for women and children hurt by domestic violence. Kappa Karamel Apples, Kappa Krush, Kappa Karnival and Kappa Field Day were favorites philanthropic events. Kappa Karamel Apples is held in the fall during the annual Homecoming football game; the chapter sells caramel apples at the game with a variety of sprinkles and nuts as toppings. Kappa Krush starts the week leading up to St. Valentine’s Day. Kappa members staff a table near the dining room during meals and promote the philanthropy. Students, faculty and staff purchase Crush soda cans and personalize messages on cute little cards tied to the can then delivered by the Kappas to the intended recipients.

Academically, the chapter concentrated on improving their GPA and were recognized in 2006 with the Panhellenic GPA Cup for having the highest GPA of the sororities on campus. The women set up study tables two times a week, as well as encouraged each sister to set individual academic goals for each term. Sisterhood events included movie nights and Kappa lunch once a week.

==Highlights of 2012==

n January 2012, we had formal recruitment and got our largest New Member Class ever out of it - 15 girls. They were initiated in March. We had a lock-in at a Baskin Robbins as a sisterhood event, and it won us best sisterhood in our Panhellenic council. We had the hot wing-eating contest, Too Hot To Handle, again for Spring Greek Week and it was very fun and successful. Our President at the time, Hallie Witmer, attended Convention. We had COBs in the Fall and got 5 more new members from it. We did a cakewalk for Fall Greek Week. We also did Kappa Karamel Apples at our school's homecoming football game. Throughout the year, we stayed on the academic excellence plan and continued logging our study hours, but we have not yet been able to get off the plan.

Our campus is a small (1400 or so students) liberal arts college. We have three Panhellenic sororities on campus. None of the sororities have housing; instead we each have meeting rooms. Our chapter is small with about 40 members, but we are very tight-knit and all care for and help one another with both chapter and individual needs.

==Highlights of 2013==

We had recruitment in January and we got a 5 new members from it. We then had Winter COBs and got 5 more new members. They were initiated in April. We had a Baskin Robbins lock-in as our first sisterhood event with our new members. We received the award for Most Panhellenic Sorority from our Panhellenic Council. Our president at the time, Hallie Witmer, received an award for Outstanding Demonstration of Leadership.

Two members received scholarships for winter term dues, one being from our house board and the other being the Marion McMillen scholarship. In the spring, we had our annual Too Hot To Handle hot wing-eating contest, which was fun and raised money for our local philanthropy, Harbor House. Late in the Spring, our meeting room was broken into. We caught them and sent them to our campus’s Judicial Board. Their punishment was to each write us a letter of apology. We did COBs in the Fall and got 2 more new members from it. We also did Kappa Karamel Apples at a volleyball game, since the homecoming football game was rained out. In the Fall, at the beginning of the 2013-14 school year, we were able to get off of the academic focus plan, since we had all worked hard and raised our cumulative GPA. Being off of the focus plan allowed us to organize more mixers and sisterhood events.

At the beginning of this school year, Lawrence’s new president, Mark Burstein, was inaugurated. He is a good president who is much more present than the last one, though he could use some education on the Greek life on campus, which we are offering to him. Our chapter is rather small, comparatively with chapters on bigger campuses, but that allows us to be very close-knit and have great interpersonal relationships. None of the sororities at Lawrence have housing, but we each have a nice room of our own on campus in which we hold our weekly meetings, as well as other smaller meetings and some sisterhood events; we are also free to hang out and do homework with one another in our room, as it is a very safe and comfortable space.

==Highlights of 2014==

Following recruitment 2014, Zeta Epsilon pledged 15 New Members in January 2014, including 1 legacy. Following recruitment, we have an All-Greek event with all the Greek organizations on campus to celebrate New Members. We later have a Baskin-Robbins lock-in sisterhood event to welcome new members. Kappa Krush is our Winter Term philanthropy event, which took place February 10-12. We sell Crush soda cans with proceeds going to our local philanthropy, Harbor House. Blue and Blue and Fireside ceremonies took place on February 28, 2014. Initiation took place March 1, 2014, and new member formal took place that night. Nerd Day was held March 15 to encourage members to study for exams. We had a sisterhood weekend at Bjorklunden, our northern campus, from April 11-13. A leadership consultant visited our chapter April 13-18. During Greek Week (May 12-16), we host Too Hot to Handle, our spring term philanthropy event. It is a hot wings eating contest with the proceeds going to Harbor House. May 19-23 was reverse I-Week to celebrate seniors, culminating with Senior formal on the 23rd. On May 25 we hosted Mother’s Tea, where we invite our mothers to campus for tea, crafts, and getting-to-know-you activities. May 26 was Senior Send-off and Key Pass. The last meeting of the school year was held June 1. Nerd Day was held June 7, our final event for the school year. Our first meeting for the 2014-2015 school year was held September 21, 2014. We held continuous open bidding events from September 22-24 and pledged 2 new members on September 28. For Fall Greek week (September 30-October 1), we hosted Greek Gourmet Grilled Cheese in conjunction with Delta Tau Delta. We sold a variety of grilled cheese sandwiches with the proceeds going to Harbor House. On October 11, we hosted Kappa Karamel Apples at the homecoming football game. We sold caramel apples to support Reading is Fundamental. We had a ceremony to celebrate Founders Day on October 13, complete with chapter and fraternity history presentation as well as a speaker from Harbor House. Additionally, we had a leadership consultant visit from October 13-October 17. November 2 we celebrated Dad’s Day, where we invite our dads to campus for a tailgating-themed event. Blue and Blue and Fireside were held November 14 and initiation was held November 15. Our last meeting for the term and the year was held November 16. We had two Nerd Days November 21 and 22 as our final events for the term.

==Highlights of 2016==

We started off 2016 with Formal Recruitment. After three days of recruitment, 7 girls accepted their bid. On Martin Luther King day, our VP-Organization planned a Leadership Day where a Kappa leader taught us how to work well with others. During the week of February 8-12, our Philanthropy Chair put on an event called "Kappa Krush" where students could purchase Crush soda cans for a $1 and leave a note that can be delivered to their "crush". This money was donated to Harbor House in Appleton, WI. The new members were initiated on February 27, and our New Member Formal took place at the Radisson Hotel on March 5.

During spring term, we did COBs and had 2 girls accept their bid. On March 29, our VP-Organization planned another Leadership Day where the members of the Chapter Council met and talked about any problems in the chapter and ways to integrate the new members more. Our VP-Organization also planned a sisterhood event called "Dress for Success" where our sisters went to New York and Company at the local mall and had the manager teach us how to dress for interviews. We were then allowed to shop. Greek Week took place from May 9-15, and our chapter put on a philanthropy event called "Too Hot to Handle" which was a wing eating contest. The money raised from this event went to Harbor House in Appleton, WI. The following weekend, our two new members were initiated on May 21, and we had our Senior Formal that same night. We had our Senior Send-Off on May 30, and the seniors did their Key Pass before initiation.

When we returned to school in the Fall, we did COBs and had 3 girls accept their bid. During the weekend of October 15-16, our school has "Family Weekend", so our Event Chair planned a Kappa Brunch where our sisters' families were invited for brunch on October 16. Our Philanthropy Chair also planned an event called "Kappa Karamel Apples" which took place during the football game on October 15. The money raised from this event went to Harbor House in Appleton, WI. The new members were initiated on November 5. We had a sisterhood weekend at Bjorklunden, our northern campus, from November 11-13. On November 13, our chapter conducted elections.

Zeta Epsilon received Honorable Mention for Ritual at Convention. We received this award even without a nomination from our advisers.

The three philanthropies that our chapter supports are Reading is Fundamental, the Kappa Foundation, and Harbor House in Appleton, WI, a battered women’s shelter. Every year we hold Kappa Karamel Apples, Kappa Krush, and Too Hot to Handle to support our philanthropies.

We addressed and combated challenges through our Leadership Action Plan goals. Our focus areas included philanthropy and alumna relations, effectively using programming meetings, participation in committees and budgeting, and involvement in and understanding of the Panhellenic Council and knowledge of Kappa and chapter history. We aimed to address these challenges by giving a philanthropy presentation during new member periods, having more hands-on RIF related volunteering, planning monthly programming meetings covering topics of interest to the chapter, making committee agendas organized and efficient, holding one committee meeting per month, keeping committee members involved by delegating tasks and meeting regularly, holding a programming meeting informing members about the history and function of Panhel, enforcing attendance at Panhel meetings more strictly, and having the Panhel delegate be more explicit about the proceedings of Panhel meetings.

Recently, a local sorority, Beta Psi Nu, joined our Panhellenic Council as an associate member. We are also starting to work more closely with non-Panhellenic and non-Inter Fraternity Council Greek organizations, such as Sigma Alpha Iota and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia. Renovations to dorms and small group housing are beginning to occur across campus. Along with this, there has been discussion regarding the relocation of our meeting room as renovations are completed across campus. Our chapter currently has 40 active members and 11 new members. Our numbers fluctuate greatly over the course of the year since we have deferred recruitment.

Zeta Epsilon holds meetings in our designated meeting room located in the Panhellenic Wing of one of the university-owned dorms on campus. Our chapter does not have (and has never had) a house or any type of group housing. In terms of changes on campus, diversity has been a popular topic for discussion. One significant change on campus was the addition of loft-style housing in Coleman Hall. This living space includes a living room, a kitchen, and rooms for 8-20 people, depending on the loft.

One issue our chapter has been experiencing is attendance and accountability. While we are all sisterly towards one another, attendance at our sister's events is lacking. This is something the chapter has discussed, and we hope to increase attendance for upcoming events.

We typically raise money for Harbor House in Appleton, WI. The chapter choose this organization because this is a place that benefits greatly from our fundraising.

==Highlights of 2017==

This year was as one would expect, full of numerous activities that brought sisters together in the name of Kappa. Our chapter has deferred recruitment, so our recruitment takes place the second week of January, just after our term has started. The week leading up to this is full of crafting, practicing, and total focus on recruitment. It's nice because we use this big event as a way to boost Kappa spirit and reteach all members about Kappa's symbols, history, philanthropy, and everything in between. Increasing Kappa pride and Kappa spirit has been a main focus the last couple terms, and this was a perfect way to kick off the new term in the name of Kappa.

We flowed through this term with our normal weekly meetings, and volunteered on MLK jr. day as a sisterhood, but the biggest importance was making our new pledges feel welcome and at home as they began their Kappa education journey. During the week of February 6-10, our Philanthropy Chair put on an event called "Kappa Krush" where students could purchase Crush soda cans for a $1 and leave a note that can be delivered to their "crush". This money was donated to Harbor House in Appleton, WI. As the term continued, the chapter felt it important to address the possibility of seasonal affective disorder and personal well being through a programming event lead by one of our faculty wellness members, Erin. This was extremely important because the second term of the year tends to be the hardest, and we wanted every sister to be understood and feel a comfort in her sisters.

We were lucky enough to be able to schedule our LC visit to coincide with our Inspirational Period, including everything revolvimg around initiation. This was an amazing opportunity to have a graduated sister come in and remind the chatper of what this is all about and make sure everything ran smoothly and accurately. Our LC was amazing and we learned so much from her. Because of the other Greek chapters on campus, we added sisters through continuous open bidding in the spring as well. Having two initiations back to back helped bring our sisterhood together and continue educating everyone on all things Kappa.

In May, WE WON OUR GREEK WEEK. The amount of participation from Kappa members was unbelievable and extremely awesome. Not only did we show our fellow greek organizations a lot of support, we also hit our philanthropy event (Too Hot To Handle, a wing eating contest) out of the park. Everything was so successful and we were able to help out a lot of good causes in the process.

As our year came to a close, we showed our support for our sisters through "nerd days" that help with studying and coping with the stresses of finals, and an alcohol awareness programming event that educated everyone on informed drinking habits to help keep everyone safe and smart in the upcoming summer.

==Highlights of 2018==

This was a big year for Zeta Epsilon Chapter! With the changes in leadership and membership, our chapter shifted its focus on sisterhood and support. More specifically, our VP Standards and President worked closely to shift standards committee to a support outlet for members. In addition, to further strengthen our relationship with Kappa Kappa Gamma on a national level, our chapter's VP organization arranged multiple visits from an LC and EME trainer. These visits helped our leadership increase its knowledge on expectations of each position and ways to improve internal support. This helped our sorority grow and flourish further under the ongoing focus letter.
We started off the year with formal recruitment in January, welcoming eleven new members into our chapter. During that week, Katie O'regan, an LC, visited our chapter, helping the new leadership transition more smoothly into their positions. For the rest of winter term, Zeta Epsilon chapter focused on welcoming and educating the new members, initiating them in late February on both the Lawrence and Northwestern campus. Several senior programming events occurred in February and March, focusing mainly on nutrition and finance education.

After spring break, the chapter began spring term with a focus on sisterhood, attending the conservatory’s opera starring multiple Kappa sisters. Later in April, an EME trainer visited our chapter. We focused mainly on the the function and improvement of sister support both within and outside of Kappa. This comradery carried over into Greek Week, helping Kappa take first in Lip Sync and win for the third consecutive year! Furthermore, our philanthropy chair organized successful wing eating contest, raising several hundred dollars for Harbor House, a local organization sheltering survivors of domestic abuse. To celebrate our sister, we had a sisterhood event in the chapter room to watch the royal wedding and drink tea. For the last several weeks of the school year, we focused on our graduating seniors, planning a fun formal and senior send off. The seniors also had a dinner with the chapter’s advisors at the Melting Pot. During our last chapter council meeting before summer break, we looked over the reassessment of our chapter’s focus letter. As recommended, each member of the council agreed to reach out to their specialist and discuss their position during the summer.
During the summer, we had some major renovations of our chapter room thanks to our house board. To increase the space and comfortability of the room, much of our furniture was replaced and the floor was completely renovated. Outside of the chapter, our president and marshal attended national Kappa events, including the Leadership Conference and 2018 General Convention. One of our members also notified she received a large scholarship through Kappa based on her academic achievements.

Our chapter immediately began COBs once school resumed, welcoming three wonderful new members, who were initiated in late October. Furthermore, our panhellenic council organized an All Greek Hazing Conversation, which was considered a programming event for our chapter. A guest speaker was brought in to discuss the impacts of hazing on both individuals and the organizations themselves. To celebrate Founders Day, we had an event for the entire chapter and any alumni that could attend. We organized the event to not only focus on the founders themselves, but also the important memories that tie each individual to the organization. Later that month, we went apple picking as a sisterhood event, then using the apples for our annual Kappa Karmael Apples. Held at a home football game, most of the chapter helped make and sell caramel apples to fans. All proceeds were given to Harbor House, our local philanthropy. In early November, a majority of our chapter spent a weekend in Door County at Lawrence’s second campus. The weekend consisted of hikes through the woods, sisterhood games, and an important discussion of Kappa rituals and their meaning. Additionally, there were several Greek Diversity Initiative and Phanel meetings to discuss stereotypes and the socioeconomic restrictions of greek life. Many Kappa members were in attendance for both events. During the last few weeks of fall term, we were fortunate enough to have another EME and LC visit, helping the chapter elect new Kappa leadership for the upcoming year. To promote a smoother transition, especially within the new structure for the Epsilon district, Hannah and our VP- Organization organized a leadership evening. Our chapter finished off the term with Friendsgiving, a new chapter tradition. This event involves each family making a dish to pass for the entire chapter.
Describe the recent changes on campus and describe the chapter’s overall nature.

Greek life on the Lawrence campus has become increasingly criticized and questioned as growing numbers of sexual assault reported were associated with fraternities. These motifying numbers have resulted in the formation of several greek associated groups to examine and change these current realities faced within fraternities. For example, the Greek Diversity Initiative was established several years ago with a mission to discuss and effectively encourage the involvement of marginalized individuals in greek life. While these issues are still ongoing, the entire greek community has multiple conversations a term now to decontrust barriers and change toxic environments.
Zeta Epsilon chapter has experienced a large shift in attitude over the last year. This newfound optimism and confidence is largely due to the new members initiated during last formal recruitment. Their sheer positivity has allowed this chapter to reduce the amount of internal conflict and instead focus on sisterhood. Myself and the older chapter members are incredibly excited to watch the new leadership flourish.

Harbor House is a local organization that empowers individuals and educates the community on domestic abuse. It provides shelter for individuals affected by domestic abuse. Members of Zeta Epsilon volunteer their time by providing child care for families currently being sheltered at the facility. We hope to continue supporting victims of domestic abuse within Outagamie and Calumet County and raise awareness on this important issue within the local community.

Our chapter is fortunate to have many leaders within our group. This leadership can be seen out of Kappa (in things like athletics, clubs, and the conservatory) and in Kappa through the particiaption in leadership conventions and other committees. Our sisters have seemed to take to heart our goal of increasing Kappa pride.

Because we met the number requirement for chapter members, we did not do recruitment or initiation in the fall. This was a nice break because instead of focusing on teaching new members about Kappa, we were able to focus on becoming a tighter sisterhood with the sisters we already had.

We did philanthropy events, including our known Kappa Karmel Apples, and sisterhood events, such as going to the trampoline park together, going to the pumpkin patch, having stress free nights in the Kappa room, and even just getting meals together. We had elections on November 12th and will be transitioning those positions when we return for the next term. This year was the beginning of a huge Kappa pride and spirit turn around in our chapter. As everyone gets closer, they love each other more, and love Kappa more for bringing them together. It only goes up from here.

Not a lot of big changes have happened on campus. There seems to be a certain stigma in regards to Greek life, but we are slowly working on that through diversity intiatives and personal invitations to events. We, as Greek life, are trying to open up more and become more approachable and inclusive.
Our chaper has been on a focus letter this year. We have been working hard to get off of it, but some things take more time than others. We have, however, made a lot of progress and only see more improvement from here. Having pride in being a Kappa, working on sisterhood, and having an overall respect for being a Kappa has been our goal and our focus. We plan on continuing to work on all of this and make our chapter the best it has ever been. For philanthropy, we stick to the Kappa Foundation, Harbor House, and (because we do not have RIF near us) varying organizaitons that help local children (the elementrary schools, blessings in a backpack, the Boys and Girls Club, etc.). This year has been fairly diverse in philanthropic hours because so many of our sisters are involved with different things. Some volunteer with the special olympics and ask sisters to join. Others have their own events they are holding (like a Halloween party for kids with disabilities, or an Hour of Power swimming event) and we will usually be the primary volunteers. Our commons kitchen has a food recovery program that was started by a Kappa, so we tend to be the majority volunteers for that too. Everything varies, other than our Kappa bound philanthropy, but if a sister asks us to volunteer, we support it. In regards to our Kappa based philanthropy, every year we hold Kappa Karamel Apples, Kappa Krush, and Too Hot to Handle to support them. The organizations and events we chose to participate in all fell under what our chapter considers respectable and impactful. We all just want to continue making a difference in people's lives, especially those in our community. We hold meetings in our chapter room, located in the Panhellenic wing of one of the university owned dorms. It hasn’t changed for many years now. We do not have a house, nor have we ever had a house. We are working on changing the interior decoration in our chapter room in the near future.

==Highlights of 2019==

One of the most memorable first moments of 2019 was welcoming our new pledge class! We initiated ten new members who have been wonderful additions to our chapter. In the first round of primary recruitment, the potential new members get to know our chapter by casually talking to most of our members. In this round we inform the potential new members what Greek life is like at Lawrence and answer any questions that they have. There are posters of what we all major and minor in and other extracurricular activities everyone is involved with on campus. In this round we get to talk to the potential new members the most and get to know them. Round two is centered around our philanthropy. We inform them on the organizations that we support and how we do so. The Kappa Kappa Gamma foundation, Harbor House, and Reading is Fundamental are the organizations that we often volunteer and fundraise for. During this round we wrote letters for little kids about our favorite books and what inspired us to read. We also made bookmarks to give to the children. We gave the letters and the bookmarks to an elementary school and public library. This round we got to know the potential new members very well. Round 3 focused on our ritual and getting to know the potential new members even more. We also made this round more personalized to our potential new members by telling them how we saw Kappa in each of them. It helps our potential new members get a really good idea what Kappa means to us and what it could mean to them.
For our winter philanthropy, we held an event on campus that we called “Kappa Kappaccino,” where we sold coffee and donuts on campus to raise money for the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation. Another event that we hosted during spring term was Too Hot to Handle, where we had a cookout during Greek Week to raise money for the Harbour House, our local philanthropy. We will be doing an event at the local elementary school next week. For this event, we will be doing fun activities with third graders about the Wampanoags, which is a topic they have been learning about in class. We hope to get them excited about learning by doing a coloring activity, reading stories, and watching a short clip about the tribe. At this event, we will also be asking for book donations.
Our new member formal was held on the second floor of the Warch Campus Center. The theme was “Oh, the Places You’ll Go,” inspired by the Dr. Suess children’s book. Our decorations included a sky photo backdrop, a map of the world for us to mark where we are all from, balloons, and streamers. We also provided snacks, such as chocolate fondue with treats for dipping, popcorn, and fruits. With our new members still getting to know their sisters, this was a great way for them to enjoy their sisters’ company and their first official Kappa event!
In the spring, we held continuous open bidding to add three new members to our chapter. For our first round, which was held in our Kappa room, we had a spa night. We got to know our potential new members by painting our nails, doing face masks together, and eating snacks. The following evening, we held a game night in our Kappa room. We played Uno, Apples to Apples, Jenga, and many other board games. We had about six potential new members come through COB’s, including one Kappa legacy. There were a few concerns raised about a few of the potential new members, however we try to give each potential member the benefit of the doubt and overlook trivial campus gossip. Ultimately, our decision came down to who we all thought would not only fit in with our chapter, but also help us improve by bringing new and refreshing ideas. We welcomed three new members into our chapter, and they have all been wonderful additions.
Senior formal was held at Pullman’s, a nearby restaurant right along the river. Dinner was provided, along with a cash bar. The formal was in honor of the graduating senior class. It was themed the “The Final Rose,” and we gave real roses to give each of them. We also had note jars for each senior, for our chapter members to leave them all kind messages and words of admiration.
Our last week of the term, we held both big/little reveal and senior sendoff together. Our three new members finally got to find out who their big was! Each big made a large sign and held it over them, and after a countdown they dropped their signs to reveal themselves. Our big/little pairs are Amy and Anna, Rebecca and Liz, and Jackie and Hannah. They are all great pairs and really enjoy spending time with each other. Following big/little reveal, the sophomores sang “I’ll Always Remember You” by Hannah Montana to the seniors. We did change some of the lyrics to make them more Kappa oriented. The juniors performed a skit for the seniors as well. We then fulfilled our tradition where our seniors give us their old Kappa shirts and we all wear everything that we are given. By the end, we are all wearing several layers of clothing and we take a picture.
In May, just before we were let out of school, we held interim elections for President, VP Finance, VP Membership, VP Membership Development, and VP Internal Affairs. While this change was announced at our Executive Board meeting, nominations and voting was completed at a formal meeting. Annika Lund was installed as VP Membership Development, Alexis Angemi was installed as VP Membership, Ally Herrera was installed as VP Internal Affairs and the proxy for Ritual and History Director, Elizabeth Liebau was installed as VP Finance, and Ceara Larson was installed as President. In less than one week, the new board was running smoothly and advancing the chapter. With this change in leadership came a change in our advisory board, who came to us with plenty of new ideas and great attitudes.
For continuous open bidding of fall 2019, we had a spa themed night and a game night. We played board games together and had two potential new members stop into our room and express interest in Kappa. We gave one bid out to Jordan Adamson and she accepted the bid. Bid night was a pajama theme and we had snacks and got to know our new member after welcoming her in by singing Rah Rah and Oh Pat. VP Membership bought the snacks and set up the room. Since it was for one new member, and the two potential new members that expressed interest are teammates and roommates of current members, the rounds were kept simple so we could focus on getting to know the potential new members. We did not utilize any committee members as it was not necessary. Since we were only giving out one bid, we really wanted to find the best fit for our chapter. We wanted someone who is compassionate, responsible, and showed interest in being a part of our chapter. We had members who did not already know the potential new members chat with them during our spa and game nights so they could get to know them more before discussion and voting.
On November 12th, we held big/little reveal in our Kappa room so Jordan Adamson could find out who her big was. On the table we left a crossword puzzle that included hints about her big. These hints included her favorite sports, classes, hobbies, and interests. Each word contained one letter from her name, which was circled prior to starting the puzzle. Once Jordan finished the puzzle, she scrambled the circled letters to find out that Lauren Turner was her big. Lauren then opened the door to officially reveal her identity.
This term we had the privilege to initiate four new members: Jordan Adamson, Jaqueline Feldy, Elizabeth Jonjak Plahn, and Anna White. On November 16th, we had our FS ceremony, with one alumnae present. The following morning, November 17th, we held RR and WR. We also had two alumnae present for these ceremonies, who both read for RR. Initiation ran very smoothly, and we are so excited to teach our new members all about Kappa’s ritual and the secret songs that they have been waiting to learn.
On November 3rd, we held our elections. Tali Berkowitz was the head of the Nomination Committee, with Jessica Hopkins and Celina Vidos in the committee. During our chapter meeting, Tali presented the slate, and we voted on each position as a chapter. Ceara Larson was re-elected as our chapter President. Elizabeth Liebau was re-elected as VP Finance. Erin Lengel was re-elected as our VP Operations. Ally Herrera was elected for VP Membership Development. Anna Kallay was elected as our new VP Membership. Emma Gilshannon was installed as VP External Affairs. Genesis Rosiles was elected as our new VP Internal Affairs. Annika Lund is now our new Standards Director. Elizabeth Jonjak Phlan was elected as our new Event Director. Kylie Lydon was elected as Risk Management Director. Celina Vidos was elected as the Administration Director. Emily Hoeft was elected as our new Facilities Director. Amy Courter was elected as our new Ritual and History Director, however she stepped down from her position the following week, so Lauren Tuner was elected in her place. A week later we also held Leadership Day at one of our advisor's homes, to help make our transitions smoother and to better understand one another’s leadership styles.
We had the Minnie Stewart van come to campus Friday November 1st from 3-5 pm. Due to the weather, we moved the van into the Kappa room. They brought a ton of cool and interesting Kappa items, such as an original gavel, seal, and several other objects from the founding at Monmouth College. They also had a VR set that animated the creation of Kappa where we were able to see our founders sign the original documents that brought Kappa into being.

Some of the most memorable campus-wide changes and events that have occurred over this past year includes the infamous Polar Vortex. During winter term, temperatures dropped to a record-breaking –50 degrees in Appleton. Our classes were cancelled for a majority of that week, and it was considered unsafe to go outside without the proper clothing on. With record breaking low temperatures such as this, it was almost certain that you could get frost bite within minutes of being outside. Another change on campus was with our meal plans. The meal plans changed from a set number of meal swipes and culinary cash over the course of a whole term to a set number of meal swipes renewing weekly with a set amount of culinary cash to last the entire term. For the most part, this change was not been widely appreciated by students. Administration is already considering changing it, since it has caused many issues when people run out of their set amount of culinary cash and do not have enough meal swipes to account for all their meals for the week. Overall, we have had a very interesting and fun year, and we are looking forward to what is to come.

Founders Day 2019 was held at our adviser, Christina’s home. It was a lovely affair, and we chatted with our sisters, alumnae, and advisers. We had a delicious brunch and discussed the significance of the upcoming 150th anniversary. We conducted the Founders Day ceremony from the Kappa website and sang two songs: "On the Heart of Each Sister" and "Dream a While of Kappa". Overall, it was a success, and the celebration was enjoyed by all!

Zeta Epsilon supports Reading Is Fundamental, Harbour House, and the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation. Each of these organizations is very important to our chapter.

==Highlights of 2020==

One of the first memories of 2020 was welcoming our new pledge class! During primary recruitment our first round was to have the potential new members get to know our chapter by casual conversations. In this round we inform the PNM of what Greek life is like at Lawrence and what the chapter is like. There are posters around the room that tell the PNM about all of our major and minors and the extracurricular activities everyone in is involved in. Round two is all about our philanthropy. This is when we inform them about the organizations that we support. During this round we colored bookmarks to give to the children for a local elementary school. This is the round where we get to know the PNM very well. Round 3 focused on our ritual. This round is more personalized to the PNM by telling then how we saw Kappa in them. We initiated our 7 new members on January 28 and January 29. Our philanthropy for winter term was “Kappa Kappaccino.” We sold coffee and donuts on campus to raise money for Harbor House. We had our new member formal on the second floor of Warch Campus Center. We provided snacks and drinks, along with multiple backdrops for pictures. We had multiple backdrops for pictures. This was a great event to celebrate your new members. On March 12 we were told that campus will be closed for next term do to the COVID-19 Pandemic. This was a very sad day for everyone because it meant one less term with our lovely seniors. To honor our seniors, we put on senior sendoff that Saturday to say goodbye. The sophomores sang a song to the seniors. We did change some of the lyrics to make them more Kappa oriented. The juniors performed a skit for the seniors as well. We then fulfilled our tradition where our seniors give us their old Kappa shirts and we all wear everything that we are given. By the end, we are all wearing several layers of clothing and we take a picture. Our last day on campus was on March 18 which was the last day for the school year of 2019-2020.

Spring term was very different to everyone at Lawrence. This was the first term that was all online. To keep in touch during the pandemic we had Zoom coffee dates and other fun activites. We also tried to have movie nights on Friday, but we had some technology problems. Our chapter did not have a philanthropy event spring term due to COVID-19.

Our first chapter activity together was on September 20 which was our first chapter meeting for the school year. It was different than normal because it was all online. It was so nice to see all of our sisters for the first time in 6 months. We had continuous open bidding online with themes of game night and spa night. We got two great new members. Our VP Membership went to their rooms to give them a little goodie bag. We celebrated together with an online Zoom bid night. We were able to do a trivia event about our new members in the style of Jeopardy. On November 7 we had big/little reveal. To reveal who the big and little pairings, the bigs did a TikTok. It was a great change on how we normally do big/little reveal due to COVID-19. This term we had the privilege to initiate two new members: Kate and Lyss on November 14, 2020 in an all-in-one ceremony, with Elmhurst University, because of the Pandemic. We had our election on November 8. Genesis was the head of Nomination Committee and presented the slate that we voted on. Lexi Praxel was elected as our new President. Ally Herrera was elected as standards. Elizabeth Liebou was elected as VP Operations. Sam Tolu was elected as VP Internal Affairs. Jessica Hopkins was elected as VP External Affairs. Kate James was elected as VP Finance. Sarah Yochem was elected as VP Membership. Anna Kallay was elected as VP Membership Development. Marlee Matthews was elected as Ritual and History Director. The philanthropy for fall term is that our chapter donated money to Harbor House for their needs. We are doing this because other types of philanthropy events are really hard to do because of COVID-19.

Another obstacle that arose fall term was the movement of Abolish Greek Life. Our Chapter addressed this by having people from headquarters come to a chapter meeting to talk to us about the movement across the country. They also walked us through different situations on what could happen and where to go from there. The next meeting, we came up with ideas to improve and change the chapter for everyone. Also, during the meeting with headquarters, we talked about changing primary recruitment. We are currently in the process of adjusting recruitment, so everyone feels more welcomed.

Overall, it was a great year filled with good and bad times. We learned through a pandemic that has taught us so much about each other and about ourselves.

Chapter Philanthropies:
Harbor House
Reading is Fundamental
Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation
Each of these organizations represent the causes that are important for us as a chapter to support.

The chapter included Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) training this year by adding a DEI officer. During fall term our chapter had a small committee that came up with different activities to talk about DEI. We had a speaker come to talk to the chapter about their experiences in Greek Life. We are also changing how the chapter does primary recruitment.

To celebrate Kappa’s 150th anniversary, we did the virtual ceremony on October 11, 2020 following a chapter meeting. Our chapter also decided to have the readers for the celebration to be around the country to show that we are together even when we are apart.

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[[File:Zetaep4.PNG|thumb|bidday]]

==Highlights of 2021==

With 2021 being a challenging and difficult year due to the pandemic, KKG Zeta Epsilon was able to adapt and hold events, meetings, and activities online to continue to foster a loving Kappa community. We gained one member, Charlie Bunch, during Primary Recruitment and two members, Claire Zickel and Lucie Peltier, during Spring COBs! These three new members are also stepping up to take on leadership roles this upcoming year. We had to say goodbye to many seniors at the end of the school year, but we are so happy for the road that lies ahead of them! Before they graduated, we held a bonfire night planned by Jessica Hopkins where some of the new members were able to meet and mingle with the outgoing seniors. At this bonfire, we also continued to celebrate a Kappa tradition of our love of Taylor Swift by singing some karaoke and sharing our favorite Taylor albums and songs. The seniors were also able to have a Senior Night to celebrate their accomplishments and spend Sme together. Thank you so much to our amazing seniors; we love you! Our interim VP External, Charlie, hosted a screening from the JED Foundation which fostered a conversation about mental health and suicide, which talked about fighSng the sSgma against suicide and being open to these challenging conversations. At the end of October, Charlie also planned a Murder Mystery Dinner for the chapter, where we all dressed up as certain 80s characters and tried to solve whodunit. Some of our favorite moments during that dinner was Lexi Praxl’s impression of Keanu Reeves and Sarah Yochem being discovered as the murderer! Standards Director Ally Herrera also started a new tradition of Secret Sister, where you are assigned a fellow Kappa and over the course of a month, write them notes or make door decorations for them. The goal is to get to know everyone in the chapter a little bit better and have fun, little activities to do as a chapter. Ally also hosted pumpkin carving for Halloween, so everyone was able to decorate pumpkins together. Due to our chapter being fairly small, we had to combine and change officer roles so every position was covered. VP External and VP Internal now do everything under their VP roles, Finance and Operations were combined as well as all Member Recruitment roles. By the end of Fall term, Charlie Bunch ’24 was elected President, Claire Zickel ‘24 was elected as Vice President External, and Lucie Peltier ‘24 was elected as Vice President Internal. In addition, Lexi Praxl ’23 was elected as Vice President Finance and Operations and Ally Herrera ‘22 was elected as Member Recruitment. Thank you to Ally for taking on an officer role during her senior year!

During Winter and Spring of 2021, our chapter supported Edison Elementary School as a part of our philanthropy Reading is Fundamental. However, during Fall of 2021, we changed to support the JED Foundation in light of KKG changing their philanthropy to mental health and wellbeing. We chose to support the JED Foundation as it is one of the most prominent foundations in supporting emotional wellbeing and health, as well as them having a focus on college communities and their program and policy development.
How did the chapter support Kappa’s philanthropy? While we could not visit in-person, we were able to host online activities for the elementary kids. One fun activity we did was having Kappas dress as their favorite book characters. As our new philanthropy of mental health and wellness just began, we are hoping to host events on campus to help fellow students unwind and learn more about the JED Foundation and Kappa.

Our Member Recruitment and DEI Officer hosted a couple of screenings to start conversations about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Kappa as well as in a larger scale on the Lawrence University campus. During Fall 2021, we also met online with Tori Seymour who gave us a presentation about DEI in Kappa and how we can further our discussions and continue to foster inclusiveness in Kappa. We are really hoping that in Winter 2022 we can continue these conversations and host more DEI events that are open to the whole student body.

From our university adhering the CDC’s guidelines, all meeSngs for us were moved to an online format, via Zoom. Because of this, Primary Recruitment and Spring COBs were all hosted online. It wasn’t too difficult to continue via Zoom. Our Big/Little reveal was done by using TikTok, where our Member Recruitment Officer Jordan Adamson showed them over Zoom. After the Spring COB initiaStin in June, some Kappas were able to go out to brunch together to celebrate! Even as the pandemic has made in- person interactions more challenging, we continue to find ways to still have time together in a safe way. We also feel that due to the pandemic and its effects, recruitment was down a little as everyone was trying to adapt and cope during such an abnormal Sme. However, we are feeling very hopeful for this upcoming year with recruitment! As Fall 2021 began, we were allowed to start meeSng in-person a^er receiving negative COVID-19 test results from Lawrence. While the start of the year was a little slow from changing from Zoom to in-person, we are so happy to finally see each other face-to-face. We host all of our meetings in our Kappa Room on campus, while all wearing masks. While guidelines are slowly loosening up, we still remain wearing masks and respecting any guidelines that the CDC or Lawrence may give us.

Eta Phi

2022-01-03T21:19:24Z

Epsilon Specialist: /* Highlights of 2020 */

{{Infobox Fraternity
|Name= Eta Phi
|GreekSymbol= HΦ
|Image= [[File:ElmhurstOldMain.JPG|200px]]
|Founded= {{start date and years ago|2013|11|23}}
|College= [https://www.elmhurst.edu/ Elmhurst College]
|Location= Elmhurst, Illinois
|District=
|Homepage= [https://elmhurst.kappa.org/ Eta Phi Homepage]
|Media= [https://wiki.kkg.org/index.php?title=Category:Eta_Phi Media related to Eta Phi Chapter] }}

<table><tr><td>

'''Elmhurst College founded 1871'''

'''Chapter Founded: November 23, 2013'''

'''Charter members initiated: 43'''

'''139 initiates (as of June 2018)'''

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'''Some of Eta Phi’s Outstanding Alumnae:'''

'''Fraternity Council Officers:'''

'''Fraternity Loyalty Award Recipients:'''

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

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==History of the College==
In 1871, Thomas Bryan, a leading Chicago businessman, gave a substantial parcel of land 16 miles west of the city to a reform-minded group of Protestants, the German Evangelical Synod of North America. The land was intended for a school to prepare young men for the seminary.

The Elmhurst Proseminary opened that year with 14 students and an inspektor, the Reverend Carl Kranz. The original students studied music, mathematics, science, history, geography, religion, German and English—all disciplines that remain in the curriculum today. They also studied Latin and Greek. For decades, all courses, including English, were taught in German.

In 1924, the school formally assumed the name Elmhurst College (it had been called that colloquially for years) and began offering the bachelor of arts degree. The first leader of the new four-year college was a 1912 alumnus, H. Richard Niebuhr, who would become one of the premier theologians of the 20th century. Niebuhr served as Elmhurst’s president from 1924 to 1927.

Niebuhr envisioned Elmhurst as an ever-widening circle, opened the school to students from beyond the German Evangelical Synod and worked to build an intellectual community where young people might develop an effective individuality. In the years after Niebuhr’s brief but transformational presidency, Elmhurst’s ever-widening circle came to include women, adult students, graduate students and persons with an astonishing variety of passions, backgrounds and beliefs.

In the 1990s, the College began a sustained period of purposeful investment in institutional quality. It added faculty, expanded enrollment, raised admission standards and enhanced the campus. Its academic reputation grew substantially. From every sector of society, Elmhurst students are eager to engage avidly in learning—in the classroom and in the laboratory, in the city and around the world.

The Elmhurst College Strategic Plan 2009-2014 calls for the faculty and administration to build an institution of genuine distinction among the small colleges in the Chicago area and beyond. To meet this goal, the College must continue to grow convincingly in quality, impact and prestige. In short, it must achieve a higher level of service to students and society.

In the words of the strategic plan, Elmhurst intends to become “nationally known for the Elmhurst Experience, a contemporary framing of liberal learning.” The hallmarks of the Elmhurst Experience—student self-formation and early professional preparation—are designed to prepare its students to become truly educated men and women, ready for life in a complex and competitive world.

The Elmhurst campus is a 48-acre arboretum, boasting nearly 800 trees and shrubs. The City of Elmhurst is a quiet suburb ranked first in a Chicago magazine survey of the best places to live. Downtown Chicago is a 30-minute train ride away.

Students come to Elmhurst from many states and countries, and from nearly every religious, racial and ethnic background. As of 2013, the student body comprises about 2,800 traditional full-time undergraduate students, 325 adults pursuing an undergraduate degree and 285 graduate students.

==Presentation:==
On May 6, 2013, Kappa Kappa Gamma made a presentation at Elmhurst College. Members of Kappa’s presentation team were: Fraternity President Julie Marine Leshay, Colorado College; Director of Chapters Collett Beers Rangitsch, Wyoming; Director of Programs & Education Beth Uphoff Black, Illinois Wesleyan; Fraternity Extension Chairman Barb Adams Goettelman, Syracuse; Leadership Consultant Jessie Pereira, Santa Clara; Extension Coordinator Lisa Lunney Thomson, Bowling Green; Membership Services Chapter Support Libbi Rettew, Virginia Tech; and Executive Director Kari Kittrell. At the time of expansion, the campus Panhellenic consisted of Alpha Phi, Phi Mu and Sigma Kappa.

==Establishment:==
Establishment Chairman was Suzanne Brown Mahoney, Kansas State. Two Kappa chapters participated in the establishment activities: Loyola and Valparaiso. The Chapter Consultant appointed to assist Eta Phi was Jessie Pereira, and the Coordinator of Chapter Development appointed was Ann Moenius, Nebraska. Additional members of the establishment team included Barb Goettelman; Leadership Consultants Cara Cook, Arizona State, and Iliana Garcia, New Mexico; Beth Black; Janet Meinheit, Wisconsin; and Loyola Membership Advisor Tracey Bien, Drake.

The first tabling event at the Elmhurst College Activity Fair was on August 29, 2013. Since the Fraternity’s name was not on the participants list, Greek Life Director Elizabeth Doyle quickly found us an open spot to set up our table. It was sunny and hot, but the Kappa team didn’t melt! It was obvious that our outstanding Chapter Consultant, Jessie Pereira, had made many strong connections on campus. Everyone was very welcoming, and the offers to assist were numerous.

We were limited to no more than five table workers. Jessie Pereira, Suzanne Mahoney and two additional alumnae staffed it. Eta Phi Installation Chairman and Elmhurst resident Alexandria Shanklin, Emory, stopped by to meet us and helped, too. The table was provided by Elmhurst College and the “Be Kappa” tablecloth covered the table. Tabling materials and a large vertical banner had been sent from Headquarters to use. It was too windy for the vertical banner, and we needed to consider how to make the tabling pieces work in the wind.
The Kappas focused primarily on encouraging women to participate in Recruitment and told them that Kappa was going to be the newest sorority on campus. The potential new members were given Jessie Pereira’s business card which included the Be Kappa Facebook page address. Several women approached the table on their own, and we did our part to engage those who were a little more hesitant.

Overall, this was a great start to Kappa’s establishment at Elmhurst College. The event ran smoothly, we had all the necessary materials, a great team helped and there was interaction with a lot of potential new members.

Recruiting alumnae volunteers to assist with establishing the chapter began in early August and continued for more than five weeks. It was made possible by the assistance provided by the local Province Directors of Alumnae: Epsilon South Province Director of Alumnae Beverly Hayes, Miami, and Epsilon North Province Director of Alumnae Nancy Greenstein Worsley, Illinois.

It was determined that it would be beneficial for members of the interview team to participate in a conference call to have a refresher course about the Membership Selection process. This call was facilitated by Director of Membership Susan Pile, Miami (Ohio), and Assistant to the Director of Membership Melissa Shearer, Vanderbilt.

Before establishment began, wooden letters KKG were created to use during Recruitment, and we found a calligrapher to create the Bid Day cards who volunteered to make the centerpieces for the Preference dessert party. Floral arrangements for the interview registration table and the iris stems for the Formal Pledging Service were ordered. It was determined that we needed a basket with children’s books for the philanthropy display table.

Since the Valparaiso undergraduate members came to assist with the round one parties, snack bags were assembled by the Hinsdale Alumnae Association members for them to have on the bus ride home. Snack bags were also assembled for the young alumnae team assisting that evening as well as snack bags for the Loyola undergraduate members who came to assist with Formal Pledging and Bid Day.

Lisa Thomson flew in from Headquarters to assist. She, Jessie Pereira and Suzanne Mahoney put the finishing touches on the party space. The Valparaiso undergraduate members arrived, were briefed and given shirts which had been purchased for the future Elmhurst College GIRLS Academy. The alumnae team members were given the same briefing and shirts. There were approximately seven Valparaiso women and approximately 20 alumnae assisting the first evening. Approximately 95 potential new members attended the parties. It was an exciting night, and everyone felt hopeful and enthused for the kick-off of the Kappa colonization events the next week. During the weekend, Leadership Consultants Cara Cook, Arizona State, and Iliana Garcia, New Mexico, arrived to help.
From September 23 to 25, Kappa conducted information sessions at tables in the student center. These sessions made it possible for Jessie Pereira and the Leadership Consultants to tell the potential new members about the process for Kappa’s Recruitment during the week and allow time for them to ask questions.

Recruitment began on September 26th. The women from the Loyola Chapter, Beth Black and a team of alumnae helped with the party. Several parties were scheduled throughout the day and additional women from Loyola came to help with an evening party as did Janet Meinheit, Wisconsin.

Interviews began on September 27th. The college booked a room for us across from the common area of the student center. In their off-time, alumnae put together the snack bags for the Loyola women for Sunday, and these alumnae assisted Loyola chapter volunteers with crafting projects. Following the morning interview session, campus catering brought in lunch and the alumnae team ate while the membership selection meeting was conducted. This meeting was facilitated by the Field Representatives and Suzanne Mahoney. The Loyola membership adviser, conducted the final selection meeting, and by 8:30 p.m. the team had compiled a list of women to invite to the final party.

Bid day arrived on September 29th. The Loyola women and a team of six local Hinsdale alumnae joined the establishment team for this exciting day. The party was very successful: 54 bids were extended and all attendees accepted them. These women were escorted to another room for the Formal Pledging Service. Beth Black conducted the service.

Following the service, everyone went back to the original party room where the new members received their bid day bags and Kappa T-shirts. The establishing class took photos and had fun together while a reception was hosted by the Fraternity for the campus Greek leaders and administration. The 54 new members then came to the reception after which they stayed for a pizza and salad dinner. There they all had an informational session about Kappa and participated in ice-breaker activities. This was an incredible experience and made memories for a lifetime.

==Installation:==
The Eta Phi Installation team included Chairman Alexandria Shanklin, Emory; Jessie Pereira; Ann Moenius; Fraternity President Julie Leshay; Director of Alumnae Lori Gilmore Miltenberger, Butler; Fraternity Ritual Chairman Susanne Wolff Vander Heyden, Washington State; Barb Goettelman; Regional Director of Alumnae Jennifer Beardsley Fales, Kansas State; Beverly Hayes; Nancy Worsley; Epsilon Central Province Director of Chapters Alexandria Campion Young, South Carolina; and Headquarters staff members Lisa Thomson and Libbi Rettew.
Fireside was held November 22, and the Installation Service was conducted November 23 at the Westin O’Hare. Eta Lambda Chapter at Loyola served as the sponsoring chapter.

A beautiful installation brunch was held at the Westin O’Hare. Barb Goettelman served as toastmistress. Elmhurst College Dean of Students Eileen G. Sullivan, Ph.D., welcomed Kappa to the campus and spoke about how the Fraternity fits into the Elmhurst College Greek system. Also attending the luncheon were Elmhurst College Associate Dean of Students Ian Crone, Associate Dean of Students Desiree Novak, Assistant Director of Greek Life Elizabeth Doyle and Panhellenic President Carly Pizzitola.

Hinsdale Alumnae Association Co-president Susan Nelson Nibeck, Washington University (St. Louis), presented Chapter President Stephanie Young a beautiful new President’s badge inlaid with pearls.
The model chapter meeting followed at the Westin O’Hare with Fraternity President Julie Leshay presiding. Following her installation as Eta Phi’s President, Stephanie Young presided and closed the meeting.
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Dr. Sullivan’s Installation Brunch Address:
“Good afternoon. On behalf of President Alan Ray and the Elmhurst College administration, I’d like to say welcome and thank you to so many people who have gathered today to celebrate our students and what they have established together, the Eta Phi Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma. But before doing so, I wanted to mention something about a dream. Bear with me…. It actually wasn’t my dream, it was someone else’s dream; nonetheless, it seemed relevant to share today.

“It seems to be a common phenomenon when you work in student affairs to ‘take your work home with you,’ so it’s not unusual for me to hear the following from someone on my staff when I arrive to the office each day: ‘I had this dream.’ Last week, those were the words of Desiree Novak, Associate Dean of Students. Given I, along with my staff, are often having dreams about work-related happenings, this wasn’t unusual, but...I also wasn’t sure where this was going. I started to think about everything that had gone on on-campus the week preceding Desiree’s dream.

“I should tell you all that at Elmhurst College, the material for our dreams is quite impressive. Over the course of the last two weeks, we had a country music concert featuring a former American Idol, which, incidentally, was disrupted by tornadic activity. We also had a gubernatorial candidate on campus, a First Amendment Free Speech Day which included faculty and students reading banned literature in the Founders Lounge of the student center, a lecture about the legacy of a beloved Chicago film critic, a meeting of the Better Men’s Initiative, a King of Hearts program (to be clear, the Better Men’s initiative and the King of Hearts program were two separate events) and a handful of ‘happenings’ that I read about through a series of incident reports I received, courtesy of our Campus Security Department.

“So when I say I’m not sure where the ‘I had a dream’ comment would lead us, I really meant it. I mean, this year alone I’ve dreamed of being pulled over a 15-foot wall, being part of a flash mob under a circus tent and climbing a telephone pole only to jump off a platform and zip-line through a forest. (Wait a minute…those weren’t dreams.)

“But alas, Desiree did have a dream, and it was a happy one. I asked her ‘what was the dream about?’ She responded by saying ‘We were initiated into Kappa.’ ‘Really?’ I asked. ‘Yes,’ she responded. Confused, I asked her ‘So even though you are a Sigma Kappa, and I am a Delta Zeta, they initiated us?’ She nodded and gave an affirmative ‘Yep.’ Still a bit puzzled, I pressed ‘And they didn’t have a problem with the fact that you and I are members of two other National Panhellenic Conference groups?’ Equally confused, but very happy she shrugged and said, ‘I guess not.’ She couldn’t recall who all was there, but she did note ‘they were all so nice.’ And I couldn’t help but think no greater truism exists. You, the national volunteers and alumnae, have all been so nice to our students, now, your sisters. Thank you so much for your kindness and for your leadership.

“I’d first like to thank the national volunteers for Kappa, those who have been involved in this process from extension presentations in April and May, to Installation of the chapter today, some seven months later. I’d especially like to thank Julie Leshay, President, and Barb Goettelman, Extension Chairman. These women, along with other national volunteers, headquarters staff and alumnae have made today possible, and the College thanks you for your commitment to Kappa and our students at Elmhurst College.

“I’d be remiss not to mention members of our staff who also have worked to make this day possible. Certainly, Desiree Novak, Associate Dean of Students and Director of Student Success and Retention. Desiree’s support of Greek life at Elmhurst runs deep and her commitment to the Greek experience is grounded in her own membership in Sigma Kappa and her previous work for her national organization. Prior to hiring our current director of Greek life a few years ago, Desiree assisted the College in our most recent extension effort when we colonized and later chartered Phi Mu. I’d also like to thank Ian Crone, Associate Dean of Students and Director of Student Activities. Ian is our overall champion of student involvement, mentors countless students in and out of the Greek community and is always up for new and exciting adventures on campus. Let’s give Ian and all the men who are here today some recognition: the fathers, brothers, friends and others representing the male contingent are outnumbered at today’s lunch, but their presence is much appreciated. Thank you for being here to support your Kappas.

“Most importantly, I want to thank Elizabeth Doyle, our Director of Greek Life. Talk about nice – when she accepted her position at Elmhurst College a few years ago, she was so excited that when Ian asked her ‘what do you prefer to be called, Liz or Elizabeth?’ she responded ‘either is fine.’ Ian started calling her Liz, and we all followed suit. It wasn’t until a year later that we learned that no one in her entire world calls her Liz. Others at Elmhurst have ‘course corrected,’ but I can’t break the habit: she is still Liz to me.
“Recognizing that fraternity and sorority members at Elmhurst are retained at a rate of ten percent above the campus average, Liz set out to grow our community. And she has – by 39 percent over a three-year period. The leadership opportunities she has developed for and the mentoring she provides to our students is nothing short of amazing, and we are so grateful that she is here. If there was a commission on undergraduates recruited into the field of student affairs (our Panhellenic President Carly is one such example), Liz would have a beach house by now. Really. She brings a joy to her work and it is noticed by students, faculty and staff. To the volunteers and the headquarters staff of Kappa, you have an excellent campus partner in Elizabeth Doyle.

“And of course, to Jessie Pereira, our wonderful Chapter Consultant who I first met when Kappa presented to the campus community in May. Having started my career in student affairs as a campus Greek advisor, over the years I have met with many a chapter consultant and because of that, I think I understand how frustrating it can be to have to answer the question posed by those outside of the higher education community: ‘So…what is it that you do?’ The question is usually followed up with a response like ‘And that takes all day?’ I understand that it is definitely difficult to describe what chapter consultants of fraternities and sororities do without coming across as a cruise director. But make no mistake, their work is no cruise. Jessie worked diligently to build interest in Kappa in the early fall, and over the course of the past two months, she has nurtured and guided the colony, so that it could become what it is today, the Eta Phi Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma.

“I recall visiting with Jessie in early September and giving her names of great women she should talk to. To each person, she was able to tell the story of Kappa, and encourage her to take the journey she did as a founding member of the Santa Clara chapter. We at the College are so grateful, Jessie, that you will be here guiding the chapter members as they build their membership this spring and embark on all the wonderful experiences that will make up their journey of establishing a strong chapter at Elmhurst. So to Jessie, Julie, Barb and all of the Kappas who are here today, thank you. You’ve done a great thing in establishing a Kappa chapter at Elmhurst. The College administration believes that Kappa is a perfect addition to our Greek community and looks forward to the contributions the chapter will make to the College.
“And to the 42 amazing women of the Eta Phi Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma…congratulations! Today we celebrate you, the start of what will be an incredibly enhanced undergraduate experience, and a lifetime of memories you will make with your sisters.

“While it is obvious that you have been influenced by your Greek experience thus far, we all know that who you have become is due in large part to the positive influence and personal impact of your parents, brothers, sisters, other family members, friends and supporters. Many of these individuals are here with us today. Let’s give them a much deserved round of applause.

“But Kappas, any way you look at it, today you emulate your founders. While there were only six of them and they came together in 1870 when the word ‘sorority’ did not yet exist, you are like them today. And, while you are connected to Kappas of all ages in collegiate and alumnae chapters across the country and beyond, you are not bound to specific chapter traditions. As a new group, you get to establish your own. While you will share in common with other undergraduates a focus on children − through Reading is Fundamental and GIRLS Academy, you will experience the excitement of developing your own traditions and your own commitments to things like friendship, leadership, service and community involvement.

“For some of you, you come from a family where others are Greek-affiliated…parents, sisters, brothers. And even for some of you, your Greek connections within your family are more specific. You have cousins, aunts, mothers or even grandmothers who are Kappas. For you, this is a special bond to be shared within your family. And of course, for some of you, you are the first in your family to join a Greek-letter organization. No matter your individual context, you, as likeminded women with similar values and interests, have made a decision to come together and start something new at Elmhurt, just like your founders did at Monmouth College in 1870.

“Earlier this morning, you took part in something special, something shared only by Kappas: your ritual. Looking back on my initiation into Delta Zeta in 1984, I admit it was a bit of a blur. I was 18 and pretty overwhelmed. Having an older sister who was initiated into Delta Zeta four years before I was, I asked her all kinds of questions after I had been through the ceremony. But, each year after that, when we initiated new members into our chapter, I made an effort to try to pay close attention and internalize the experience.
“I can’t say that I was completely successful in that effort, but I tried. I ask you to try, too. When we internalize our own ritual, we are building upon the great foundation our parents and others have laid for us − to live out our values in our daily lives, through our interactions with others. My hope for all of you is that at some point in your life, your ritual takes on very personal significance for you. I hope it becomes one of the principle components of your decision-making process, and it serves as a guidepost for how you lead your life.

“As an educator, I understand that fraternities and sororities were founded on sound educational and humanistic values, with the ultimate goal of developing in their members an appreciation for values and a commitment to making the world a better place in which to live. As initiated members of Kappa, you have taken vows that undeniably tie you to these purposes. And in doing so, you and the 140 other collegiate chapters of Kappa Kappa Gamma have said this is who we are. This is what we value.

“This past week, I was in the grocery store doing some shopping when I noticed an elderly couple standing in the meat section. The man picked up a package of beef tongue. A young woman walking by noticed, and asked what it was. ‘It’s beef tongue,’ the man replied. ‘You eat it.’ The young woman looked confused and pressed him, asking ‘You eat something that comes from the mouth?’ ‘Certainly,’ he said. ‘It’s good for you.’ Puzzled by this, the young woman continued to press the older man, ‘I can’t believe you eat something that comes from the mouth.’ She then turned, walked over to the dairy section, picked up a gallon of milk and left.

“Often, we who are involved in sororities and fraternities are judged by those outside of our membership. However, like the man in the store, we know the positive effects of our choices, regardless of what others will say. As Kappas, you know the difference you can make on campus and in your own communities. The purposes and values to which you took an oath and the way of life they develop in you are admirable values by which to live your life. Do more than remember your ritual. Use the values imbedded in it to help guide the many decisions you will make as members, as college students and as people.

“Like Kappa, Elmhurst College is also about certain things: the core values of academic excellence, stewardship, community and faith meaning and values, guide our work as an institution and form the foundation for our learning community. It seems to me that these values are reflected in the purposes of Kappa Kappa Gamma, set forth over 140 years ago on a campus not far from here, by a group of six courageous women who set out to make the world a bit better.

“As members of Kappa Kappa Gamma, at a college rich in values, you have been given a wonderful opportunity to enhance your life experience through sorority membership. It is my hope that you will embrace this experience by maximizing your membership and leadership opportunities and living your collegiate life at Elmhurst College to the fullest.

“Congratulations, and happy initiation!”

==Highlights of 2013==

This year the Eta Phi Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma was chartered at Elmhurst College. We have 42 active members and 1 alumna.

We kicked off our colonization process on September 26, 2013 and hosted our first Bid Day on September 30, 2013.

We were welcomed into the Elmhurst College Community during our Homecoming festivities on October 5, 2013 by students, faculty and representatives from every other Greek organization on campus.

On November 2, 2013 we partook in a Sisterhood Retreat and started forming ties through various team building activities.

November 17, 2013 elections were held and 19 women took up officer positions within our chapter.

November 22, 2013 was our Fireside followed by installation on November 23, 2013.

Since installation we have begun meeting regularly as a council and chapter every Sunday. We are in the process of establishing by-laws and standard for the chapter to uphold. We are also communicating with other Greek Organizations on campus in hopes of having a collaborative function in the near future.

Our goals include getting more involved in the Elmhurst College Community as well as being more active within the chapter as well. We are also partaking in informal recruitment that will be taking place March 2-8, 2014.
Describe the recent changes on your campus and describe the overall nature of your chapter.
Our chapter is very eager to become a well-known name in the community. All of the girls are starting to get out of their comfort zones and truly put forth effort to know everyone in the chapter. We are extremely supportive of one another and love spending time together.

==Highlights of 2014==

Scholarship: We had six members initiated into the Fraternal Values Society: Taylor Soss, Geena Jacobson, Katie Evensen, Sam Musick, Tiffany Lutka and Katelyn Ditzler. We had five of our members iniated into the Order of Omega: Katelyn Ditzler, Geena Jacobson, Stephanie Young, Katie Evensen and Sam Musick. We also had two members initiated into Gamma Sigma Alpha: Diana Santana and Katelyn Ditzler.

Conferences: Over the summer we had a number of our members attend a variety of conferences. Gina Skiris and Geena Jacobson attended AFLV LeaderShape in June and Stephanie Young and Katelyn Ditzler attened UIFI. Katie Evensen also attended UIFI and served as an intern for AFLV Central.

At Elmhurst's Greek Awards, Angela Tucker was awarded most outstanding new member out of all greek chapters campuswide. Tiffany Lutka was also elected to be on the Executive Board of the Panhellenic Council.

We celebrated our first Birthday on November 23rd with all of our newly initiated members. We had a very successful first formal recruitment adding 26 new members to the chapter, and making the all sorority average.

We also had our first Philanthropy event, Get Fit With Kappa in April of 2014 where every participant donated a book. We also had our first Semi Formal in May of 2014 and our first formal in December of 2014.

Other philanthropy events have included: a Potbelly's fundraiser in November of 2014 and a Reading is Key Event in November of 2014 as well.

Some traditions that we created have included the Sisterhood support bra given out at every chapter meeting, and the smartie panties to be drawn from a pool of girls that logged study hours the previous week. We also have monthly sisterhood dinners.

Our chapter is also very involved in supporting other chapter's of Greek Life on campus. In March of 2014 we participated in Dodgeball hosted by Lambda Chi Alpha and Phi Mu by having two Kappa teams, as well as participating in Lambda Chi's Watermelon Bust in September. We also supported Sigma Kappa when one of their sisters passed away from Leukemia by participating in a fundraiser. Many of our members participated in Alpha Sigma Phi's annual powder puff game playing on both the red and gray teams, as well as taking pictures with Santa in support of Alpha Tao Omega. Also, one of our members was a participant in Phi Mu Alpha's Philanthropy event called Queen of Diamonds and ended up placing first. Many of our members also went in support of her. Other than that, we have been and continue to be involved in Relay for Life among many other organizations on campus. We also continue to be supportive within the Panhellenic community and the Greek Community in any way that we can.

I do not think much has changed in terms of our campus, however our chapter has changed drastically. Over the course of one year we have transformed into a much more competent and independent chapter than when we started off. Our Executive Board has become much more independent and cohesive than when we started off. Although we are still getting the hang of things as far as planning events and having regular attendance, we have a strong group of girls who are really enthusiastic about our capabilities through Kappa and our future looking ahead. We had a really great group of girls that were just initiated who are all very strong leaders not just in Kappa but throughout the campus as well. We have overcome many obstacles and challenges as a brand new chapter on campus, but we are as involved as we can be and continue to learn and grow with each passing week.

We hold chapter meetings every Sunday from 6:30-7:30 in a classroom inside of Old Main, one of the Academic Buildings on campus. Council meetings are held in the same place at 5:30. The city of Elmhurst does not allow Greek Housing, however many of our members live together as roommates in dorms or apartments.

==Highlights of 2015==
In the Spring of 2015, We had the very first panhellenic Girls Academy in the history off KKG. We
also had a few Reading is Key events, the most recent being in October of 2015. We had a
successful Spring 2015 recruitment, and an even more successful Fall 2015 recruitment where we
met our quota.

Although we are only two years old, Kappa Kappa Gamma is now the second largest sorority of the
five at Elmhurst College. We are larger now, but our sisterhood only grows, and we use committees
far more than we did in the past. We also now use paper agendas for each chapter meeting.

==Highlights of 2016==

Our chapter has grown a great deal in the small time that it has been on campus. We are still the largest sorority at Elmhurst College. Our chapter is made up of women who are very diverse in what they are passionate about and what they are involved in. Many are leaders and a part of various organizations on campus. Our sisterhood has also grown stronger. These are highlights from each month:

January - No meetings are held during the month of January because no student organizations meet. Many of our sisters studied abroad in places including, Amsterdam, Berlin, China, Costa Rica, Prague, and Rome.

February - Meetings began this month and were held in Old Main 107 on Sunday evenings. Since we were at campus total, there was no need for recruitment in the Spring semester. We were and still are the largest sorority on campus.

March - We had a St. Patrick’s day function. Three of our sisters studied abroad to Greece together.

April - We had an overnight sisterhood retreat at a campsite where we had fun and got to learn more about each other. We hosted our first big philanthropic event on campus called Kappa Kick Off which was an ultimate frisbee tournament along with food and games. All money raised went to Reading is Key. We also teamed up with Alpha Sigma Phi for their Chili Cook Off event which raised money for both our philanthropies and books were donated to Reading is Key. This month, we also had our formal.

May - We hosted a mini GIRLS academy at Churchville Middle School.

July - Our chapter was awarded for academic improvement and recruitment for our chapter size at the convention in San Diego which our president, Megan Davis, attended.

September - Recruitment was this month over a three day weekend and we gained twenty new members. Our sister, Deyaneira Garriga, also attended a conference.

October - We were accepted to host another GIRLS academy in the Spring and have been raising money for that since. Homecoming was this month which we all participated in. Many of our members also participated in a fraternity Powder Puff game and since we had the most players out of any sorority, we also won money for our philanthropies.

November - We initiated nineteen new members into our sorority, including two legacies. Sisters also participated in the Christopher Lyons Memorial Walk for our chapter’s local philanthropy which we chose because it is in honor of a member’s brother.

December - We had an ugly christmas sweater function. At the Greek Summit here at Elmhurst College, our chapter won “Chapter of Excellence”. Our member, Becca Vogt, also won sorority woman of the year.

==Highlights of 2017==

The year of 2017 was a year filled of growth for KKG Eta Phi at Elmhurst College. One of the biggest development was our sisterhood. The spring semester was filled with wonderful events, philanthropic as well as social, but we struggled in connecting with sisters. The fall semester brought a wave of new members as well as a new-found bond among our whole sorority. Many sisters have expressed the change in atmosphere and are proud to be a Kappa. Overall, we are much happier and much more connected. Our sorority consists of girls from all majors. Many are student leaders on campus. Many improvements have happened and we are grateful for the past year.
The month of January consists of no meetings since it is J-term at Elmhurst College. Some sisters traveled abroad to Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Austria, Hungary, and Czech Republic for the month through study abroad programs. One sister studied abroad in Ecuador for the entire spring semester and another in England.
The spring semester started in February with our new council. Chapter meetings were held every Sunday in an Old Main classroom. No spring recruitment was needed since we were the largest sorority on campus. A bake sale for RIF was held in the cafeteria.
To create bonds with other Greek life on campus, we paired with the fraternity Alpha Sigma Phi to play an on-campus game during the month of March. For spring break, one sister went to Amarillo Texas with Habitat for Humanity to build houses.
April was a very eventful month. We had our first function which was a 50s/Grease function. It was a fun night of dancing with sisters and dates. We also paired with the fraternity Lambda Chi Alpha for a bingo night. Girls Academy took place the 22nd to the 23rd. Forty middle school girls participated, and it was overall a very successful time. We also hosted our Frisbee tournament for RIF which had teams from many different organizations around campus.
To wrap up the spring semester, the month of May consisted two events. To raise money for RIF, we held an all-you-can-eat queso dip fundraiser for RIF. It was called Kappa con Queso. We also had our formal which was a nice way to spend time with sisters before finals.
Summer break filled June and July. Sisters went on vacation, attended summer school, and worked at internships.
The fall semester started at the end of August. Some of our sisters were Orientation Student Leaders who volunteered to be trained to help first years through Elmhurst College’s orientation. One sister went to Florida for her Disney internship.
Recruitment was held in September. 84 girls enrolled in formal recruitment. Our quota was 17 girls. Bid day was very successful. The theme was Red, White, Blue & Blue. We acquired 17 new members. Three different sisterhoods happened during this month. We had a movie night, ice cream sisterhood, and a craft night.
In October we went to laser tag with Alpha Sig. We also hosted a Halloween mixer with Alpha Phi and Alpha Sig. To raise money for RIF, we held a bags tournament called Bags for Books. Weekly sisterhood dinners happened in the cafeteria. There was a haunted house and a pumpkin patch sisterhood. Our overnight sisterhood was a successful. It was filled with food, games, and bonding.
During November we had our first fall function. The theme was Disco Inferno. Our sisters participated in one of the fraternity’s annual Powder Puff game. We also initiated 17 new members, two of whom were legacies. We had a very successful philanthropy event for the Kappa Function. It was an all you can eat mac and cheese buffet. Our new exec board was selected and voted in. The annual Christopher Lyons Memorial Walk took place the Saturday after Thanksgiving. We continued weekly sisterhood dinners as well as had a sisterhood friendsgiving. There was also a movie night.
Position transitions happened in December. We had a final sisterhood dinner, a study event, and a plaque exchange to end the semester. We also went to the Christkindl Market in Chicago with the fraternity ATO. One sister graduated this semester. All in all, it was a successful year of growth for our chapter.

==Highlights of 2018==

The Eta Phi chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma was strong in the year 2018. Two main goals the chapter had was to improve sisterhood and the chapter’s GPA. The chapter saw a great increase in its GPA, which many sisters are very proud of. During Candle Pass, the question was posed: what is the chapter’s identity? It was decided that the chapter is the most diverse in terms of personality. This was reaffirmed with the girls who joined in the spring and fall semester.

January: There were no chapter meetings due to J-term. There was a sisterhood in the cafeteria on the 30th so that sisters could reunite after the long break.

February: Early in the month there was an Activity Fair where Kappa had a table. There we talked to people about Greek life and encouraged girls to go through Continuous Open Bidding (COB) with us. That night we met with our Potential New Members so that we could get to know each other better. There were two more dinners with the PNMs and a craft night to solidify who we wanted. The night of the craft night we voted on the PNMs and extended bids to four girls and only one did not accept. Regardless, we were very excited about our new members and celebrated them with Bid Day, which had a theme of U.S.A. like the fall. There was chapter every Sunday.

March: March was a big month for philanthropy and sisterhood. Many sisters read to children at a local elementary school for the Reading is Key event on the 3rd. Over 100 books were donated! There was a sisterhood dinner later that week. On the 12th there was another philanthropy event with a bake sale where $41 was raised for the Kappa Foundation. The LC that visited us in the fall was so beloved that we requested her for the spring and got her! Bri came back to campus the 25th-30th and gave us many things to work on for the fall, a big one being delegation. She was very helpful for girls who were in new positions. While Bri was on campus we hosted a Trivia Night, where a group of one of our sisters’ friends (who called themselves Denim Thunder) won.

April: This was a very busy month for the Eta Phi chapter. There was a wood staining sisterhood on the 6th. The next day there was another Activities Fair, this time for prospective students. After the fair there was a photoshoot for fall recruitment where we all wore our spring apparel shirts (they were black, loose shoulder shirts with sunflowers and our letters). On the 9th there was big/little pref. One of the other sororities on campus, Sigma Kappa, hosted SKapture the Flag on the 11th. We had our function, themed Mathletes vs. Athletes, on the 13th. The function was very successful. I-Week was the 15th-21st with the New Member Retreat kicking it off. Another sorority, Alpha Phi, hosted Home Runs for Heart on the 18th and a few of our girls participated. That same day we had Candle Pass at night where we sat in a circle and got a better understanding of each other. Fireside was on the 19th, and initiation was on the 21st. Since there were only two girls being initiated (the third was initiated fall 2018), it could not be justified to host our own initiation. Therefore, our girls, their bigs, and our Marshal drove to Monmouth College for initiation. The next day an Every Member Educator came and worked on improving our sisterhood. A Relay for Life event was hosted from the 27th-28th and a group of Kappas went to support. There was another photoshoot for fall recruitment on the 28th, where we utilized Wilder Park next to campus. A senior brunch was put on on the 29th. Finally, concluding a packed month was a Zumba sisterhood.

May: We started out May with an Ultimate Frisbee philanthropy where we raised over $200 for RIF.. Our formal was on the fourth at a country club in Itasca. Every sister got a superlative, including “Attached at the Hip,” “Most Likely to Become an Elmhurst Stroller Mom,” and “Most Creative.” The next day we supported our sisters who were in a Dance Showcase by getting a group of girls to see the show. On the 6th there was a mandatory sisterhood where we did group activities and tie-dyed shirts with our letters on them. There were Leadership Awards for all of the social Greek organizations on the 10th. An award was given to each for “Best New Member” and “Best Sister/Brotherhood.” Katherine Albano won “Best New Member” and Gabi Garcia won “Best Sisterhood.” Many sisters attended the Lambda Chi Alpha End of the Year Bash to celebrate the semester ending. Our lovely seniors also graduated, off to do wonderful things.

June: Since our school was on summer break, the months of June and July were very low-key. There was a sisterhood pool party at one of the girls house. Our Standards Chairman, Alexis, flew to Denver to attend Convention where we got an honorable mention for Best New Member Experience.

July: Again, July was relatively uneventful. There were two sleepover sisterhoods.

August: School started up again with chapter. We also hit the ground running by having a recruitment workshop on the 29th.

September: Recruitment became the focus of the chapter with workshops twice a week. We got a nice practice talking to potential new Kappas at the Greek Life Fair on the 11th. Our lovely LC, Sena, arrived on the 12th. She was instrumental to our recruitment weekend running smoothly. Also on the 12th was a Greek Life info session and the popular Greek Life Bonfire at night. At both events we got to talk to an array of girls about the positives of joining a Greek Life organization. The next day there was Mocktails with Panhel, where representatives from each sorority met with PNMs for a fancier event. Also on that day, one of our sisters, Katherine, left for Ohio to attend Leadership Academy. At long last the day had come, it was time for Recruitment! Our first day apparel was the provided Panhel shirt with denim skirts. For the second day we donned a white top with colored high-waisted flare pants. Finally, the third day apparel was an all-white dress. Our Bid Day theme was Kappa Knock-Outs, where we had a gray tank top with pink boxing gloves on the front. We welcomed 18 incredible new girls (one of which is a legacy) to our chapter and later celebrated with them at the Bid Day party. We also had the opportunity to later extend bids to two other very worthy girls, making us 20 girls stronger. On the 21st we had a Sweet Sister Mixer where new members got to mingle with active members and potential bigs. Formal Pledging took place on the 23rd. We closed out the month by participating in the Flag Football event for Alpha Sigma Phi, one of the fraternities on campus.

October: October was another big month for philanthropy. We had a bake sale where we raised $67 for Mag Mutts, the Blue and Blue Bags Tournament, where 7 teams participated (Alpha Sigma Phi won) and $78 was raised (as well as 2 books donated!) for RIF, and the Blue and Blue BBQ, where the families of sisters got to come and meet each other. $428 was raised for the Kappa Foundation and 21 books were donated for RIF. Some of our sisters participated in the Mag Mutts 5K run where they raised $200 for the organization. There was also a team of Kappas for the Lambda Chi Alpha Pumpkin Bash and we won first place! On Founders Day we celebrated Kappa and also went to a local pumpkin patch for a sisterhood. Later we also had a pumpkin carving sisterhood. Homecoming was a super fun time with quarter-zip apparel that said “Tailgates and Touchdowns” with cats and dogs on the bag. After that there were two Big/Little Mixers, and then Pref Day!

November: November started with a bang with Big/Little Reveal which had a Wizard of Oz theme. On the 14th we had Candle Pass where we got to know each other on a deeper level. FS was on the 16th and Initiation was on the 17th. We also had two girls from Loyola University participate in our initiation. The 23rd marked our 5th anniversary of being on campus!! Chapter elections took place on the 25th where we voted in sisters to the new pilot executive board. Mac and Cheese with KKGs happened on the 28th and we raised $370 for RIF! Our semi-formal was on the 30th and was a blast.

December: We celebrated the 5th anniversary of our chapter being on campus on the 1st by inviting alumni to come and reminisce about our past. Leadership transitions happened on the 2nd, along with our final formal chapter of the year. On the 7th we had a Holiday Party where girls participated in a plaque exchange. Some of our sisters participated in the Dance Showcase, so there was a group of girls who went to support them. The 9th marked our final event for the year, a relaxing sisterhood in lieu of chapter. We also found out the incredible news that we were approved for Girls Academy for the fall of 2019! All in all, we had a great year, and can’t wait to see what is in store for us for 2019!

==Highlights of 2018==

The Eta Phi chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma was strong in the year 2018. Two main goals the chapter had was to improve sisterhood and the chapter’s GPA. The chapter saw a great increase in its GPA, which many sisters are very proud of. During Candle Pass, the question was posed: what is the chapter’s identity? It was decided that the chapter is the most diverse in terms of personality. This was reaffirmed with the girls who joined in the spring and fall semester.

January: There were no chapter meetings due to J-term. There was a sisterhood in the cafeteria on the 30th so that sisters could reunite after the long break.

February: Early in the month there was an Activity Fair where Kappa had a table. There we talked to people about Greek life and encouraged girls to go through Continuous Open Bidding (COB) with us. That night we met with our Potential New Members so that we could get to know each other better. There were two more dinners with the PNMs and a craft night to solidify who we wanted. The night of the craft night we voted on the PNMs and extended bids to four girls and only one did not accept. Regardless, we were very excited about our new members and celebrated them with Bid Day, which had a theme of U.S.A. like the fall. There was chapter every Sunday.

March: March was a big month for philanthropy and sisterhood. Many sisters read to children at a local elementary school for the Reading is Key event on the 3rd. Over 100 books were donated! There was a sisterhood dinner later that week. On the 12th there was another philanthropy event with a bake sale where $41 was raised for the Kappa Foundation. The LC that visited us in the fall was so beloved that we requested her for the spring and got her! Bri came back to campus the 25th-30th and gave us many things to work on for the fall, a big one being delegation. She was very helpful for girls who were in new positions. While Bri was on campus we hosted a Trivia Night, where a group of one of our sisters’ friends (who called themselves Denim Thunder) won.

April: This was a very busy month for the Eta Phi chapter. There was a wood staining sisterhood on the 6th. The next day there was another Activities Fair, this time for prospective students. After the fair there was a photoshoot for fall recruitment where we all wore our spring apparel shirts (they were black, loose shoulder shirts with sunflowers and our letters). On the 9th there was big/little pref. One of the other sororities on campus, Sigma Kappa, hosted SKapture the Flag on the 11th. We had our function, themed Mathletes vs. Athletes, on the 13th. The function was very successful. I-Week was the 15th-21st with the New Member Retreat kicking it off. Another sorority, Alpha Phi, hosted Home Runs for Heart on the 18th and a few of our girls participated. That same day we had Candle Pass at night where we sat in a circle and got a better understanding of each other. Fireside was on the 19th, and initiation was on the 21st. Since there were only two girls being initiated (the third was initiated fall 2018), it could not be justified to host our own initiation. Therefore, our girls, their bigs, and our Marshal drove to Monmouth College for initiation. The next day an Every Member Educator came and worked on improving our sisterhood. A Relay for Life event was hosted from the 27th-28th and a group of Kappas went to support. There was another photoshoot for fall recruitment on the 28th, where we utilized Wilder Park next to campus. A senior brunch was put on on the 29th. Finally, concluding a packed month was a Zumba sisterhood.

May: We started out May with an Ultimate Frisbee philanthropy where we raised over $200 for RIF.. Our formal was on the fourth at a country club in Itasca. Every sister got a superlative, including “Attached at the Hip,” “Most Likely to Become an Elmhurst Stroller Mom,” and “Most Creative.” The next day we supported our sisters who were in a Dance Showcase by getting a group of girls to see the show. On the 6th there was a mandatory sisterhood where we did group activities and tie-dyed shirts with our letters on them. There were Leadership Awards for all of the social Greek organizations on the 10th. An award was given to each for “Best New Member” and “Best Sister/Brotherhood.” Katherine Albano won “Best New Member” and Gabi Garcia won “Best Sisterhood.” Many sisters attended the Lambda Chi Alpha End of the Year Bash to celebrate the semester ending. Our lovely seniors also graduated, off to do wonderful things.

June: Since our school was on summer break, the months of June and July were very low-key. There was a sisterhood pool party at one of the girls house. Our Standards Chairman, Alexis, flew to Denver to attend Convention where we got an honorable mention for Best New Member Experience.

July: Again, July was relatively uneventful. There were two sleepover sisterhoods.

August: School started up again with chapter. We also hit the ground running by having a recruitment workshop on the 29th.

September: Recruitment became the focus of the chapter with workshops twice a week. We got a nice practice talking to potential new Kappas at the Greek Life Fair on the 11th. Our lovely LC, Sena, arrived on the 12th. She was instrumental to our recruitment weekend running smoothly. Also on the 12th was a Greek Life info session and the popular Greek Life Bonfire at night. At both events we got to talk to an array of girls about the positives of joining a Greek Life organization. The next day there was Mocktails with Panhel, where representatives from each sorority met with PNMs for a fancier event. Also on that day, one of our sisters, Katherine, left for Ohio to attend Leadership Academy. At long last the day had come, it was time for Recruitment! Our first day apparel was the provided Panhel shirt with denim skirts. For the second day we donned a white top with colored high-waisted flare pants. Finally, the third day apparel was an all-white dress. Our Bid Day theme was Kappa Knock-Outs, where we had a gray tank top with pink boxing gloves on the front. We welcomed 18 incredible new girls (one of which is a legacy) to our chapter and later celebrated with them at the Bid Day party. We also had the opportunity to later extend bids to two other very worthy girls, making us 20 girls stronger. On the 21st we had a Sweet Sister Mixer where new members got to mingle with active members and potential bigs. Formal Pledging took place on the 23rd. We closed out the month by participating in the Flag Football event for Alpha Sigma Phi, one of the fraternities on campus.

October: October was another big month for philanthropy. We had a bake sale where we raised $67 for Mag Mutts, the Blue and Blue Bags Tournament, where 7 teams participated (Alpha Sigma Phi won) and $78 was raised (as well as 2 books donated!) for RIF, and the Blue and Blue BBQ, where the families of sisters got to come and meet each other. $428 was raised for the Kappa Foundation and 21 books were donated for RIF. Some of our sisters participated in the Mag Mutts 5K run where they raised $200 for the organization. There was also a team of Kappas for the Lambda Chi Alpha Pumpkin Bash and we won first place! On Founders Day we celebrated Kappa and also went to a local pumpkin patch for a sisterhood. Later we also had a pumpkin carving sisterhood. Homecoming was a super fun time with quarter-zip apparel that said “Tailgates and Touchdowns” with cats and dogs on the bag. After that there were two Big/Little Mixers, and then Pref Day!

November: November started with a bang with Big/Little Reveal which had a Wizard of Oz theme. On the 14th we had Candle Pass where we got to know each other on a deeper level. FS was on the 16th and Initiation was on the 17th. We also had two girls from Loyola University participate in our initiation. The 23rd marked our 5th anniversary of being on campus!! Chapter elections took place on the 25th where we voted in sisters to the new pilot executive board. Mac and Cheese with KKGs happened on the 28th and we raised $370 for RIF! Our semi-formal was on the 30th and was a blast.

December: We celebrated the 5th anniversary of our chapter being on campus on the 1st by inviting alumni to come and reminisce about our past. Leadership transitions happened on the 2nd, along with our final formal chapter of the year. On the 7th we had a Holiday Party where girls participated in a plaque exchange. Some of our sisters participated in the Dance Showcase, so there was a group of girls who went to support them. The 9th marked our final event for the year, a relaxing sisterhood in lieu of chapter. We also found out the incredible news that we were approved for Girls Academy for the fall of 2019! All in all, we had a great year, and can’t wait to see what is in store for us for 2019!

==Highlights of 2019==

No chapter activities occurred in January due to J-term.

February was a relaxed month for the Eta Phi chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma. Headquarters designated the Eta Phi chapter, along with all other chapters in the Epsilon district, to go through a new leadership structure. Instead of having approximately 18 council members, there was an EBoard made up of six Vice Presidents and the President, with directors falling under the department of specific VPs. The girls of Eta Phi began the semester navigating the new structure.
The chapter decided not to go through with informal recruitment.
Eta Phi did host an LC from the 11th to the 15th. Lots of her visit focused on operating under the new structure and sisterhood. From the 15th to the 17th our President, Vice President of Membership, Vice President of Organization, Vice President of Member Development, and Standards Director attended a Kappa conference in Dallas, Texas.
With that in mind, lots of the events that happened in February were sisterhoods. Some of those included dinners, crafting, roller skating, and attending an on-campus hypnotist show!
A Ritual Review was also held to teach new initiates (and any actives that had become rusty) how formal chapter works.
Kappa also had a team for Alpha Sigma Phi’s basketball tournament.

The month began with a rebranded philanthropy event: “Are You Smarter Than a Kappa?” It was a trivia night that raised money for Reading is Fundamental. The event was very popular and almost every chapter on campus participated.
Kappas also participated in other chapter’s philanthropy events. A team was made for Lambda Chi Alpha’s Dodgeball Tournament. One of our sisters and her boyfriend also competed in Phi Mu’s Muly Weds game where couples answered questions about each other. Then the audience got to decide which couple was their favorite. Alpha Sigma Phi also hosted a 3 on 3 basketball event in which Kappa had a team.
Multiple sisterhoods were held throughout the month as well. They included dinners in the cafeteria, going to Feed My Starving Children, and supporting our sisters in EC on the Rise (a campus talent show). Did we mention that one of our very own sisters won the talent show? We were so proud! Our Director of Risk also began “Keep Kappas Glowing,” where sisters could contact her to let her know who needed a pick-me-up or extra recognition. Those selected sisters were then gifted self-care items such as face masks and fuzzy socks.
Also, at the beginning of the month, composites were held. It was especially interesting to see the final copy with the structure change!

April was a far busier chapter for the Eta Phi ladies. One of the new, exciting things that occurred was Greek Week. Instead of chapter on the 14th, all Greek life organizations attended a Greek Week kickoff that included a comedian/inspirational speaker. The other events that occurred throughout the week was a banner competition, Canstruction, Greek Games, and Wear it Wednesday. During Canstruction, canned foods were used to construct into fun shapes and then donated to a local food shelter. On Wear it Wednesday every chapter member wore their letters.
Another fun event that occurred in April was our function. It was themed “Kappa Kappa PaGamma,” and all sisters and guests wore pajamas and robes.
April was also a big month for participation in other chapters’ philanthropy. Many of our sisters participated in Egg ASig, and we also had a team for Alpha Phi’s Home Runs for Heart. Kappa also had a team for a large, campus-wide event for Relay for Life as many of our sisters have been impacted by cancer in some way.
On a lighter note, our sisters bonded over multiple sisterhoods. There were sisterhood dinners every other week, a Picnic and Frisbee sisterhood to celebrate the weather becoming warmer, a sisterhood to go to a Women’s Lacrosse game to support one of our sisters, a movie night, and a S'mores Night on the campus patio. Easily the most exciting sisterhood, however, was the Sisterhood Retreat. It was held in the same room as chapter and included many bonding games. One of the highlights of the retreat, however, was an affirmation activity. Two at a time, sisters sat with their backs to a whiteboard as the rest of the chapter wrote affirmations about them. Some examples were “sapphire,” “dazzling,” and “hard working.” After everyone had written something, the sister would then turn around and see the amazing things her chapter had written about her. Every single member participated.
Building off the strengthened sisterhood, a handful of recruitment workshops were also held in April. The workshops included going over the logistics of recruitment and talking pointers. There were also a handful of recruitment photoshoots held.

May was a far less busy for the Eta Phi Chapter, in part due to it nearing the end of the semester. With that in mind, there were a handful of exciting things that happened. One was Greek Awards, in which our chapter received: Best Sisterhood, Ritual, Philanthropy, Greek Participation, and Circle of Excellence. Circle of Excellence meant we were in the top three for Chapter of Excellence, or the chapter that performed the best the year prior.
One of our biggest philanthropy events, Throw What You Know Ultimate Frisbee also occurred in May. Many chapters on campus participated. There was even a baseball and lacrosse team!
We had our formal on the 3rd at a local banquet hall.
Sisterhood, again, was strong in May. There was a Nail Salon Sisterhood that happened the day before formal where a group of sisters went to a local nail salon and got manicures before the dance. There was also a hangout on the mall sisterhood, one to attend the Elmhurst Dance Show and support sisters that were dancing, a craft night, and one where we all did facemasks and relaxed before finals.

Nothing much occurred in August because school began on the 26th. However, there were two recruitment workshops that were held to practice logistics and speaking with potential new members.

The women of Eta Phi hit the ground running in September. There were two recruitment workshops in the first week. Two of the fraternities on campus, Alpha Tau Omega and Lambda Chi Alpha, helped us practice for recruitment and gave us tips and pointers. The week of the 9th to the 15th was especially wild for the Kappa ladies. There was a recruitment workshop every night and a couple of events throughout the week. For example, Kappa had a table at the Taste of Elmhurst, where every club and organization on campus goes out on our mall and tries to attract new members. We also had a table at the Sorority and Fraternity Life Fair, where all social Greek life organizations had a table in our student union lounge to encourage potential new members to go through recruitment. Finally, we mingled with potential new members and friends in other chapters at the Greek Life Bonfire.
Panhellenic Recruitment occurred from the 13th to the 15th. Approximately 60 women went through. Our chapter, pridefully, was the most successful chapter in that we recruited 13 amazing women. The average recruited was 11. We celebrated Bid Day with a High School Musical theme, a taco station, and karaoke. All could hear us across campus, yelling, “What team? Wild Kaps!”
While recruitment was happening, one of our sisters, Marya Kaufman, attended Leadership Academy for the Eta Phi chapter.
During the week leading up to recruitment and during it, we also hosted an LC named Hannah. She helped answer Eboard and Chapter Council’s questions about their positions with the new structure and give our chapter pointers on how to better function. The things she emphasized was communication and maximizing time used. #callmebeepmeifyouwantanLC
After recruitment there was a handful of sisterhood events held. Sisters painted small canvases and participated in a Target and Culver’s sisterhood. The women who participated in the Target sisterhood all were assigned a sister to buy for and had to buy something for her that was $5 or under. Then they went to the local Culver’s for ice cream. Most importantly, we also had an Overnight Sisterhood! We went to a retreat center, did bonding games like “Ooh Me Too,” crafted, ate pasta, and played games to our hearts content. Another fun activity we did was put sticky notes around a wall saying why we love Kappa. The event was pajama themed and there was a competition for who had the best pajamas.
There was also a Ritual Review for members who had been initiated in 2018 so they could become familiar with the process of initiation.

October became the month of initiation prep for the women of Eta Phi. Every Wednesday and Sunday a Ritual Review was held, only one a week being mandatory. Each week went over different aspects of initiation, from FS to songs to other processes.
There were quite a bit of philanthropy events that occurred in October. On the 6th, there was a GIRLS Academy prep. Women who were Small Group Coordinators went over the curriculum and other women received information on the roles they would play throughout the day. On the 10th there was a Bags Tournament in which many chapters participated. A few sisters and our Vice President of External Affairs also went to a local elementary school, read to them, and donated books for Reading is Fundamental.
There were also a handful of sisterhoods that occurred throughout the month. There was breakfast at Egg Harbor, a lunch in the cafeteria, attending one of our sister’s senior recital, and going to a local pumpkin patch.
There were also multiple Big Little mixers. Big Little Week occurred at the end of the month and into November.
Kappas participated in many events in the month of October. They included: Lambda Chi Alpha’s Bag Prep/Drop Off/Pickup, Phi Mu and Alpha Sig Kickin’ It for the Kids, ATOlympics, and Lambda Chi Pumpkin Bash. We bought shirts for Phi Mu and Lambda Chi’s CureKi. One of the highlights of the month, however, was Sigma Kappa’s Pearl Jam. It is a lip sync competition between Sorority and Fraternity Life. Lambda Chi won, Kappa got second with our Disney Channel themed dance, and Alpha Sig got third.

The women of Eta Phi began November in the best way possible: with a semi-formal! It was held a local banquet hall and was lots of fun. Soon after, there was Big Little Reveal. Each little was given a yarn that connected to a spot on a curtain. Once the curtain was dropped, their big was revealed.
Speaking of fun, the Eta Phi chapter had the pleasure of being able to run GIRLS Academy. It was held at Churchville Middle School and was an all day event. There were 5 groups of middle school girls that all varied in size. The 10 Small Group Facilitators taught the girls the curriculum, including body positivity, bullying, and responsibility. A service event was held in which plastic bags that had been donated were cut and tied to become plarn: plastic yarn. The strands were rolled up into balls and then donated to make blankets for the homeless. The end of the day was celebrated with each group doing a skit pertaining to one of the letters in GIRLS, Girls Inspiring Responsibility, Leadership, and Service. Other chapter members helped by taking pictures, serving food, assisting in the curriculum, and helping the day run smoothly. It was a wonderful event that no sister will forget anytime soon. The other major philanthropy event that occurred was Kappa Karaoke and Games. Many chapters participated, playing board and card games, and did karaoke.
One of the major events that happened in November was initiation! 10 wonderful new members were initiated. Inspiration Period was celebrated with the tradition of Candlepass, in which sisters had the space to bond with each other on a much deeper level. Initiation had to be held in Daniels Hall this year, which was different since it was usually held in Circle Hall. However, the Eta Phi women took it in stride and the event went very smoothly. We all got to celebrate a job well done with a Panera brunch.
Continuing the sisterhood bonding, women went to a free movie night at the local movie theater, went to the Christkindlmarket in downtown Chicago, and had a potluck Friendsgiving to celebrate Thanksgiving and the end of the month.
Kappas also participated in other events across campus. Some sisters, along with other sorority women, gave donuts to campus officers to thank them after events that occurred on campus. We also supported Alpha Phi’s King of Hearts, a male pageant. A few sisters went with other members of Sorority and Fraternity Life to Feed My Starving Children. Speaking of food, many sisters also got tacos from ATO’s Taco event. Finally, the Kappa women had a title to uphold at ATO and Alpha Phi’s Gingerhead House Competition and Pictures with Santa. Unfortunately, we did not uphold our champion title, but we did come in third place.

December was a very relaxed month for the Eta Phi chapter because finals occurred during the second week of the month. Right before finals, however, a Plaque Exchange and Holiday Party was held. Sisters made plaques for other sisters (Secret Santa style) and watched “Elf” while eating snacks and enjoying each other’s company. It was a pleasant way to end such a successful semester.

==Highlights of 2020==
"Chapter Summary
Covid-19 affected our chapter in many ways, but it did not stop us from achieving and doing a lot of great things this year. The biggest event that was changed due to the pandemic was recruitment. We had a virtual recruitment this semester where we were still able to recruit 11 amazing women to join our chapter. After we were able to welcome out new members, we were able to initiate them virtually as new initiated members and now active members. Initiation and Recruitment both went well and we were able to provide the importance of ritual and history in an online format. Almost all of our events were held virtually from sisterhoods, chapters, ritual reviews, Founders day, etc., but we were able to hold Bags of Book, one of our philanthropy events, in person while we were following all of the CDC guidelines, Kappa guidelines, and the University guidelines.

Two philanthropies that only our chapter support are Magnificent Mutts and Meows and the Christopher Lyons Foundation. We chose to support Magnificent Mutts and Meows because our sisters have a strong love of animals and supporting places that have adoption. Our chapter supports the Christopher Lyons Foundation because this supports an alumna from our chapter. Her brother passed away due to suicide, and the foundation raises money that supports Christopher’s favorite day program that he was in while he was in the hospital.

This year we have created a DEI committee that are there for girls to feel supported no matter what their backgrounds or ethnicity. The team is there to ensure that all the women in our chapter feel welcome. They are also there to handle issues in relation to Diversity if they were to arise. Once this team was formed, they helped to release a statement on diversity on behalf of our chapter that went to the college newpaper to be published. The DEI committee is also there to educate our chapter members on new information that may come up in regards to diversity. "

We celebrated Kappa’s 150th anniversary by holding the founder’s day ceremony and truly reflecting on the history of Kappa and what it means to be apart of this Women’s Fraternity.
[[File:Etaphibid.jpg|thumb|sisters]]
[[File:Etaphiphilanthropy.jpg|thumb|philanthropy]]
[[File:Etaphibidday.jpg|thumb|bidday]]
[[File:Eta (2).png|thumb|recruitment]]

==Highlights of 2021==

This year, our chapter really wanted to focus on sisterhood and coming together as a chapter because the pandemic and being forced to be online really hindered our relationships and connections with one another. We were able to collaborate with other sororities and fraternities on campus through events such as a Mario Kart tournament and an event called “Walk a Mile in Her Shoes”. The Chapter Leadership Consultant, Lauren Pfiel did a virtual visit from January 31- February 3, 2021 and supplied the chapter with many ideas for planning. Two History Archive Presentations were done, one which was virtual on April 20, 2021 and another on November 16, 2021. Various artifacts from the Hinsdale Alumnae Association and from a Chapter Adviser’s personal collection were presented. In the spring we were completely remote except for a few philanthropy events. In the fall, we began to transition into more in-person events and were able to come together as a sisterhood as we had initiation, function, our sisterhood retreat, a Fall Family BBQ, and a philanthropy event in-person!

Our chapter supports the Christopher Lyons Memorial Foundation which is a foundation dedicated to one of our alumnae’s brothers who died by suicide. The foundation is set up to donate money towards the programs that brought him joy, strength, and creativity. This organization is very special because it is extremely close to us as a chapter. This semester, we are hosting an art night where students can share their art forms in dedication of the programs Christopher loved so much, as well as fundraising the week before where we more than doubled our goal and raised over $1,480!

In the spring, we hosted a drive-in movie night to support the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation. We also added a mini library to our campus last semester as well in lieu of our philanthropies that are dedicated to literary growth and development. Students were able to enter a raffle to win novels and the proceeds went to Reading is Fundamental, Girls Academy, and the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation.

This year we were able to bring in a guest speaker in the spring to speak with us about diversity, equity, and inclusion, unconscious bias, intervention, bystander engagement, identity, and privilege. We were also able to transfer the responsibility of the DEI chair from programming to our Vice President of Member Development in hopes to expand it.

The pandemic affected our chapter as it did everyone. This spring we were completely remote and held chapter meetings, our spring recruitment, and initiation through Zoom. The only in-person events were some philanthropy events. This fall, we were able to transition our meetings to be in-person. We had our first formal chapter meeting in person since the spring of 2020! Formal recruitment was held in a hybrid format. Our first day was through Zoom and the next two days as well as bid day were held in-person. Our FS and initiation services, and our celebration brunch afterwards were able to be held in-person. Our sisterhood retreat, function, and our philanthropy event were also held in person!

Alpha Deuteron

2022-01-03T15:31:17Z

Epsilon Specialist: /* Highlighs of 2021 */

{{Infobox Fraternity
|Name= Alpha Deuteron
|GreekSymbol= A<sup>Δ</sup>
|Image= [[File:IMG 1741 reduced1.jpg|200px]]
|Founded= {{start date and years ago|1870|10|13}}
|College= [https://www.monmouthcollege.edu/ Monmouth College]
|Location= Monmouth, Ill.
|Province= Epsilon South
|Homepage= [https://monmouthcollege.kappa.org/ Alpha Deuteron Homepage]
|Media= [https://wiki.kkg.org/index.php?title=Category:Alpha Media related to Alpha Chapter]}}

<table><tr><td>

'''Monmouth College established in 1853, Monmouth, Illinois'''

'''Founded as Alpha Chapter October 13, 1870; Closed 1884'''

'''44 total initiates (as of 1884 closure)'''

'''Founded as Alpha Deuteron on October 13, 1934'''

'''1,708 initiates (as of June 2018)'''

</td>
</tr></table>

'''Charter members''':[[ Mary Louise “Lou” Bennett]], [[Hannah Jeannette “Jennie” Boyd]], [[Mary “Minnie” Moore Stewart]], [[Anna Elizabeth Willits]], [[Susan Burley Walker]], [[Martha Louisa “Lou” Stevenson]]. The last two were initiated by the first four, but walked into chapel with them on October 13, 1870. Since that is considered the Fraternity’s official founding date, Susan Walker and Louisa Stevenson are also considered Founders.

'''Alpha Deuteron charter members''': Sarah Louise Brownell, Helen Eugenia Christy, Dorothy May Field, Margaret Rhoda Lee, Mary Lucille Mack, Mary Elizabeth McClanahan, Frances Mills, Maxine Ditteau Moore, Dorothy May Murphy, Frances Carolyn Nelson, Margaret Jane Paull, Janet Randles, Martha Randles, Margaret Maxine Rathbun, Ruth Carolyn Swanson, Margaret Andrews Tubbs, Ruth Claire Wagner, Mary Jane Wilson, Emma Gibson Work, Jane Louise Zimmer.

'''Outstanding Alpha Alumnae:'''

'''Grand Chapter Officers:'''
Minnie Stewart, first president of Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity 1870-1872
Alice Pillsbury, president 1872-1874
Frances Shelley, president 1872-1874
Caroline (Carrie) Smith, president 1874-1875

'''Outstanding Alpha Deuteron Alumnae'''

'''Fraternity Officers:'''
Gail Simpson Owen, Director of Personnel 1988-1990, Director of Programs and Education 2014-2016, Fraternity Vice President 2016-2018, Fraternity President 2018-2020;

'''Fraternity Loyalty Award Recipients:'''

'''Alumna Achievement Award Recipients:'''
1974: Lois Winter Lloyd—A founder of North Shore Association for the Retarded, a training center for children and adults; Helen Wagner Willey, 1990, longtime actress who played “Nancy Hughes” on As the World Turns (died 2009)

'''Additional Outstanding Alpha Deuteron Alumnae'''
Rhonda Correll (VanOteghem), Graduate Counselor 1983-1984, PDC 1995-1999;
Sue Campbell (Jones), Graduate Counselor 1969-1970;
Juleen Kelly (Veneziano), Chapter Consultant 1996-1997;
Kristin Whitver (Fouts), Chapter Consultant 2003-2004;
Hilary Hawkinson Stott, Chapter Consultant 2007-2008, Risk Management Content Director 2018-2020;
Janice Camenisch (Keil), Graduate Counselor 1955-1956;
Crystal Straube (Stump), Chapter Consultant 1990-1991, PDC 1996-97;
Gail Simpson Owen, Field Representatives Chairman 1994-95, PDC 1985-88;
Catherine Axline Williams, PDC 1977-81;
Frances Swanson Hobert, PDA 1961-65;
Jane Robb Davis, PDA 1987-89;
Kathryn Alexander, PDA 1987-89;
Leslie James-Cook, PDA 1993-94;
Kory Brown, Traveling Consultant 1994-1995;
Mabel Martin McCoy, PDC 1961-67;
Mary Diffenbaugh Abbott, Province President 1945-57;
Nancy Acheson McGaan, PDA 2006-09, PDC 2001-05;
Sally Ann Ryder, PDA 1957-61;
Ellen Boyd (Salyards), Traveling Consultant 1987-1988;

'''Historical excerpts:'''

“Anna Willits, Minnie Stewart, Jennie Boyd and Louise Bennett!
Founders ye of Kappa Gamma …
Would that you had left more record
of your life in Alpha Chapter …”

(from the report of '''Florence Burton Roth''', Beta Delta--''Michigan'', Historian at the 1916 General Convention, Ithaca, New York)

“Forty years is a long time to remember what did not seem too very important at the time …” ('''Martha Louisa Stevenson Miller''', ''Monmouth'')

“We were just a happy, harmonious group of lively girls with a keen sense of loyalty to Kappa and to each other, with strict regard to the quality of membership and sacredness of our badge … there seemed little to record … as so many of us lived in Monmouth, we clung together and held our meetings for some years after fraternities were banished … the chapter finally became only a memory.” ('''Alice Pillsbury Shelley Resor''', A-''Monmouth'', ''The Key'', October 1929)

In September 1856, Monmouth, a three-year-old academy, opened as a coeducational college with the blessing of the Associate Reformed, later the United Presbyterian Church. Chapters of men’s fraternities Beta Theta Pi and Delta Tau Delta appeared in 1865, and Phi Gamma Delta in 1866. The I.C. Sorosis, founded for women in 1867, had not yet become Pi Beta Phi when Kappa Kappa Gamma was created. '''M. Louise Bennet (Boyd)''' and her future sister-in-law, '''H. Jeannette Boyd''', thought of organizing; considered first limiting membership to girls taking the classical course; but realized how much their choice of members would be narrowed; and “gave up that exclusive idea.”

== 1870 - 1880 ==

In January 1870, Kappa Alpha Theta had been founded in Greencastle, Indiana, at Asbury (later DePauw) University. Baird’s American College Fraternities, 1883, has it that “a proposition to establish a chapter of another fraternity suggested the idea of creating this new one.” But Louise Bennett insisted, “We had not heard of any other Greek-letter fraternity for girls at that time and always considered ourselves the first. … If any girl came from Greencastle … to invite our girls to join Kappa Alpha Theta … I never heard of it.”

This ignorance is reasonable. Between the time “two college girls … held a schoolgirls’ conversation out of which grew the Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity” on that little wooden bridge made famous by a Monmouth College president, and the day when six girls walked into a chapel wearing their new keys, and announced themselves to a college population, which already knew about them, a matter of months have passed. If they had known of any competition they would have been eager to be on with the game—but no, they waited until their badges had been made up by the jeweler. Then they were ready.

The ''Monmouth College Courier'' waited too, and in October 1870, wrote, “The long expected ship hove into sight some days ago … When the crew came ashore … the dignified mien and grace … evinced the residence of authority … they wear a little gold key, sometimes on their foreheads, sometimes on their little blue or red jackets … we have been able to count only six of them .. they are on a voyage of discovery.”

The fact that both Thetas and Kappas announced themselves by marching proudly into chapel means only that chapel was the one sure place to catch the collective eye of the student body. It is recorded that “the Greek-letter boys cheered and stamped … (it was) quite a while before Dr. Wallace (the college president) got them quieted down.”

“We were so excited and proud,” said '''Jennie Boyd''' of the day when the girls appeared wearing their keys. “Everything seemed different!” Even the people, the buildings, the classrooms seemed changed. We had started something all by ourselves!”
Alpha struck the keynote and planned the theme … chose the badge and the name … it seems quite certain that no attempt was made toward anything ritualistic.” (Historian’s report, 1933)

About 1873 the General Assembly of the United Presbyterian Church decided that no college under its jurisdiction should have Greek-letter fraternities.

“Do you think this is going to finfish us?” wrote a fiery Alice Pillsbury. “Do you think we are going to subside? Not by any means! It only puts us to the trouble of putting in our members before they enter college.” Alice Pillsbury was initiated in September 1871; served as Secretary 1874-75; she graduated in 1873. She signed the charters of Delta, Epsilon, Eta, Iota and Theta. She had to copy over the constitution for the new chapters, and she exchanged letters with their corresponding secretaries (“… our correspondence became … quite personal with exchange of photographs …”). Her letters were full of facts and liveliness and in some cases those letters are all that remain to give life to a lost chapter. Her “ … subside? Not by any means!” kept Alpha alive, albeit in rascally fashion, for a few extra years.

Until 1879 or 1880, when fraternities at Monmouth were ordered to disband entirely, pins were concealed, to be “flashed” for trusted friends.

== 1880 - 1890 ==

In 1882, '''Minnie Stewart Nelson Field (then Mrs. Nelson)''' was Alpha delegate to Convention and gave a talk. “It was the desire of the Fraternity and the intention of Mrs. Nelson to have prepared a complete history … but owing to the death of a sister Kappa who had in her possession the earlier chronicles, she was unable to procure the necessary information. (''The Golden Key'', Volume 1, Number 2)

In 1884, a letter from the chapter asked release, and the request was granted. There seemed to be no charter to surrender, and Alpha died. A February 15, 1885, letter from Mrs. Nelson repeated the story of the secretary who took the record book to Kansas and died there. This must have been '''Mittie Merridith Love''' who died in Kansas in the spring of 1882 … and with her the Alpha minutes.

Kappa Historian '''May Whiting Westermann''', Sigma-''Nebraksa'', searching for signs of Alpha members as real people made a pilgrimage to Monmouth, (The Key, April 1931) and, while reading names in the cemetery was greeted by a student who said, “My grandmother, '''Margaret Pogue''', was a member of Alpha Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma here.” Margaret Pogue Ford died November 29, 1915, in Monmouth. Her daughter, '''Mary Jane''', was married to Arthur G. Smith in 1907. Their daughter, '''Margaret Smith''', who spoke to Mrs. Westermann that day, became a member of Alpha Deuteron, and her daughter, '''Mary Hutchinson''', (later Mrs. Federick A. Tucker) is a member of Upsilon Chapter.

“How rich we are in daughters!” (Jeanette Boyd)

Excerpts from ''The Golden Key'', Volume III, Number 3, March 1886:

“The earliest records show that the chief business of our Alpha was to send its characteristic idea into every suitable place, and to make use of every advantageous method that it could originate or find. When faculty opposition to fraternities in general crushed that chapter, Epsilon had grown up in the practice of the same faith. Under it and under Delta the work went on.” (Page 8)

“Do you believe that KKG occupies all places that are suitable to her? Get a list of the colleges in the United States … study them point by point and see if there is not some Kappa material left, which is likely to come our way and should be provided for as a probable contingency.” (Page 10)

“We are in the vanguard of a live idea—the new woman movement …

“These Monmouth girls, our Founders, saw which way the second great procession of the age was tending, and they fell into an efficient place in line … when that to, the great labor question—shall have reached its destination and broken up, then we can quit hearing, telling and planning new things and give ourselves up to plant hedges, dig grottoes, and exchange lotus-eating reminiscences of the time when we were alive; in short, to be highly conservative.

“When we try to think what would be suitable for (the conservative fraternities) to do, the only thing that ever occurs to us is: Buy an elegant monument and go and be a hic jacet …” (Page 11)
--Minetta Taylor, Iota-DePauw, Editor

== '''Alpha Deuteron Chapter''' ==

Alpha Chapter returned as Alpha Deuteron 64 years after Kappa Kappa Gamma was founded at Monmouth College, and 50 years after Alpha officially ceased to exist. It was around 1880 that college authorities had prohibited Greek-letter fraternities, and the Convention of 1884 had granted the sub rosa chapter’s request for release from Fraternity obligations. It was in 1922 that the Monmouth College Senate voted to permit national fraternities to return.

The movement to reestablish Alpha began in 1924 then '''Dorothy Buck Ettl''',''Colorado'', attended a Kappa national Convention in California. She was also a member of Kappa Alpha Sigma, Monmouth local. At the 1928 Convention the group was represented by Orma Innis Smith,Illinois, and four years later '''Myra Tubbs Rickets''',''Northwestern'', when favorable action on reinstatement was taken. That fall, however, Council vetoed the application.

Recognition had been given to the Founders by the establishment of a Monmouth Memorial during the 1930 Convention. The interest from this $2,500 endowment fund was to be used to purchase books of quality in the field of the fine arts for the college library. The bookplate for the books was designed by '''Mary Albright (Giles),''' ''Ohio State''. The bookplates were presented to the college by members of Grand Council during a visit in the fall of 1932, during which they also inspected Kappa Alpha Sigma.

In 1934, the local sorority was permitted to petition, an act approved by the chapters. Throughout the years, in their efforts to win back Alpha Chapter, the local group had the support of Mrs. Ricketts. Before she and her niece, Margaret Tubbs Youngren, a member of Kappa Alpha Sigma, left for Convention in 1934, they had gathered letters from many prominent Kappas, including '''Lou Henry Hoover''',''Stanford'', wife of the former president of the United States, and Josephine Edmonds Young, St. Lawrence. Others such as Albert N. Marquis, publisher of Who’s Who in America, and Francis Shepardson, a leader in Beta Theta Pi, had also sent endorsements. Several members of Kappa Alpha Sigma had close ties with the Founders.

Alpha Chapter was re-established on October 13, 1934. The occasion was planned by the alumnae of Kappa Alpha Sigma, the Fraternity Council and the installing chapter, Epsilon. '''Joyce Snider (Heaton),''' ''Northwestern'', was co-organizer for the new chapter.

Owl candlesticks, designed and made at Monmouth Pottery for many years, were a feature of the Installation. The molds were later destroyed in a fire at the pottery.

All of the actives and 50 alumnae of Kappa Alpha Sigma were initiated as Kappas. A special pledging service was held on October 12 for freshman '''Frances Pattee (Putnam),''' granddaughter of Founder '''Anna Willits Pattee''', and she was initiated the following day with her grandmother’s gold key. In 1970, Mrs. Putnam presented this badge to the Fraternity.

Among the many who sent messages or attended the reinstatement were '''Mabel and Georgie Pillsbury''', early Alphas. Their badges, and that of their sister, Alice Pillsbury Shelly (Reesor), were later left to the chapter. The President of the Monmouth Alumnae Association wears Georgie’s badge, and the other two are framed with the Founders’ pictures, which hang in the chapter room.

Charlotte Barrell Ware wrote from Boston, “I am sending to you today the precious candlesticks … which I wish you to use at the Installation … tomorrow I shall send along the candles to be used from my wedding candles. I want Alpha to have all that we can express of gratitude in her return to head our Fraternity roll.”

'''Mary Louise Bennett Boyd''', the one living original Founder, wrote from Florida, “ … A few of us who are left … are hoping … you will remember the humble little acorn from which the spreading oak has grown. … We shall be happy in again finding ourselves at home side by side with our ancient good comrade I.C. … (now known as) Pi Beta Phi.”

Alice Pillsbury Shelley (Reesor) wrote, “ … No question of finances or fear of fatigue could prevent me from coming, but a recent recurrence of an old nervous trouble would make it unsafe … it is with added regret that as my birthday is October 14, it would be a grand way to celebrate.”

'''Martha Louisa Stevenson Miller''', now also listed as a Founder, was present for all the Installation ceremonies.
In 1935, the portrait of Tade Hartsuff Kuhns, Butler, painted in 1916 by Alpha’s Elizabeth Gowdy Baker, was sent to the Monmouth College Art Gallery. Tade Kuhns had presented this aquarelle to the Fraternity on its 50th anniversary. With the consent of Monmouth College an Alpha Deuteron, it is now in Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity Headquarters in Columbus, Ohio.

In 1959, when Epsilon Province Convention was held in Monmouth, a silver baby cup was presented to the chapter by Alpha Chapter to Minnie Stewart Nelson Fields when her son was born, engraved with the Kappa insignia and the baby’s name. It was displayed in the chapter room in Marhall Hall.

The Kappa room in Marshall Hall, where all sororities are located at Monmouth, was done in 1870 period style, Victorian red draperies, crystal chandeliers, and a Victorian sofa upholstered in blue damask. Many of the accessories were given by friends and members of the Alpha Chapter. Josephine Watt Graham, Monmouth, was the decorator. The outstanding feature in the room is the gold-framed picture of the Founders, tinted on ivory, with their names and the original Pillsbury keys. These pictures were reproduced in color on the cover of the 1970 Centennial issue of ''The Key''.

During the years preceding Kappa’s Centennial celebration, Alpha Deuteron had pledged a sum of money to the Fraternity in honor of and in memory of Myra Tubbs Ricketts.

In April 1970, Fraternity President '''Louise Little Barbeck''' presented, in the name of Kappa Kappa Gamma, an oil painting, “A Winding Road and Cypress Tree, San Vigilio,” by John Singer Sargent, to Monmouth College, as part of the Fraternity Centennial Celebration.

Mabel Martin McCoy was honored by her chapter in 1971, when its senior class dedicated an award to her, in recognition of her service and devotion. The McCoy Cup is presented annually to an outstanding senior in Alpha Deuteron.

==update from 1975==

'''Fall 1970 issue of The Key reads''': "Reproductions of the Founders of Kappa Kappa Gamma were taken from small oil portraits hand painted on ivory. The original set is framed with the names of each founder and an early key belonging to Georgie Pillsbury who was initiated in Alpha Chapter in 1877. The framed portraits were a gift from the Monmouth alumnae to Alpha Chapter."

==Highlights of the 1980s==

The 1987 pledge class created a cross-stitch pattern with Kappa symbols in all four corners. It was presented to the actives at the end of inspiration week. Traveling Consultant Lila Isbell visited the chapter. In 1987, there were 625 students on campus; 151 women in sororities and Alpha Deuteron had 49 actives, 1 pledge. The faculty and administration of Monmouth College as a whole were very supportive of Greek organizations. Chapter goal was “striving for excellence through individual responsibility and shared experiences.” The chapter worked hard to meet this goal.

In 1989 a new rush party was developed, Sail Away with Kappa. One of the parties was a hayrack ride at one or the member’s uncle’s farm. The pledges made wooden Greek figures which were placed on the Stewart House lawn. Each pledge signed her name on the back. The figures were presented to the active chapter at the end of inspiration week. Traveling Consultant Sheri Gosliner visited the chapter. This year there were 635 students on campus, 145 women in sororities and 54 active Kappas plus one associate member. The faculty and staff continued to support the Greek system and were proud of their accomplishments.

'''Philanthropy:'''
The chapter members went to Applegate Nursing Home in Monmouth to sing Christmas Carols.
A dance to benefit UNICEF was held with Zeta Beta Tau. In 1989, the chapter held a really fun philanthropy. It organized a golf tournament at Gibson Woods Golf Course to raise money for the Warren Achievement Center. Even though it rained, everyone had a good time.

==Highlights of the 1990s==
The Minnie Stewart House was officially dedicated in May 1990. Barbara Blair Frazier, Monmouth, was hired as the Stewart House hostess in residence. One of the rush parties was a Roaring 20’s Party where the members wore fancy flapper dresses and gangster suits. Rush was very successful and the chapter pledged 31 women. The pledge project was a carved wooden owl with each pledge’s initials carved into it. Keys were hung at the owl’s feet, one key for each of their hearts. The owl was displayed in the chapter room.

Traveling Consultant Christine Cutter and Alpha Deuteron’s own Helen Wagner Willey visited the chapter. Helen received the Fraternity’s Alumnae Achievement Award in 1990. In She starred in the first play at Monmouth College’s new theater, The Lion in Winter. She was well known for her role as Nancy Hughes on the long-running soap, As the World Turns, 1956-2010. In 1990 there were 632 students attending Monmouth College, 135 were sorority members and Alpha Deuteron had 45 actives. This year the chapter’s goal was “To improve respect for the Fraternity and the individual through Fraternity Education programs and the use of the new committee system.”
New this year, Big/little Sister Week was creative and concluded with a big sis hunt that throughout the entire campus.

In 1991 the chapter pledged 22 women. It was the only sorority to meet quota on Bid Day. The pledges gave the chapter scrapbook titled “Kappa is …..” It included 22 pages, one for each pledge which described what Kappa meant to each of them. Big/Little sister week was fun for the pledges and actives. It ended with each pledge unwinding a mass of string that connected her to her big sister.

Kappa Krush was new this year. The seniors matched each of the actives with a guy of the senior’s choice and they met at the Valentine’s Day Dance.
During senior week the classmen had a secret senior. At the end of the week a banquet was held where the seniors read their wills. This year there were 660 students attending Monmouth College, 147 of the women belonged to sororities and 57 of these women were Kappas. The chapter goal this year was “To improve sisterhood positively through trust, respect and confidentiality.” Each member worked to achieve the goal as did the chapter as a whole. Each week awards were given to those who showed improvement in meeting the goal.

Alpha Deuteron began the 1994 academic year by pledging 30 women. This nearly doubled the size of the chapter. The pledges helped make Homecoming a success. Their float won first place and the chapter joined together to take second place in the Spirit Shout. The chapter excelled in scholarship this year. For the second semester in a row, it had the highest all-Greek and highest all-women’s average. All sorority GPA 3.056, all women GPA 2.907 and all Kappa GPA 3.16.
There were 791 students attending the College, 159 of the women belonged to sororities and 68 of these women were Kappas. This year the chapter goal was “50 percent attendance at non mandatory events.” To achieve this goal, the chapter had a contest between pledges and each of the other classes. An award was given to the class with the best attendance. The chapter also accepted the Challenge to Excellence.

Recruitment in 1995 was a huge success. The chapter filled quota and pledged 27 women. The pledges first helped the chapter to shine during Homecoming when they won the annual Spirit Shout and placed third with the Kappa Blue Hawaii float that boasted Elvis on the top. The pledge project was to paint a new Fraternity crest to be hung outside of The Stewart House.
The chapter goal was to “make an effort to improve sisterhood by supporting members outside of meetings and Kappa events.” Each member was expected to attend two extra-curricular events per month in which Kappas were participating. A master calendar listing these events was created and members signed up in advance. The chapter continued to work to achieve the Fraternity’s Challenge to Excellence.

The chapter maintained its high academic achievement. It had the highest all-Greek average while the pledges had the highest pledge class average as well. All sorority GPA 2.932; All Kappa GPA 3.115. There were 925 students on campus, 176 women in sororities and 72 members of Alpha Deuteron Chapter.

Recruitment 1996 began this year on a high note. The chapter pledged 41 new members which doubled its membership to 80 women. The new members represented the chapter well during Homecoming by placing second in the annual Spirit Shout and third with their exciting float, Kappa Boulevard. The new members built a wooden bench which was placed outside the Stewart House.
Again this year the chapter was recognized with the Fraternity’s Challenge to Excellence Award and received the Standards Award. The chapter continued to do well academically and maintained the highest sorority and all-Greek average. The chapter began holding study tables. The all sorority GPA was 2.995, all women GPA 3.008 and Kappa’s GPA 3.101. This year there were 993 students enrolled at Monmouth. 87 of these students were members of Alpha Deuteron Chapter.
The chapter goal this year was to have 50 per cent attendance at non-mandatory events and 90 percent attendance at all mandatory events. This goal expanded the chapter goal from the previous year in an effort to improve sisterhood by supporting the sisters outside of chapter related events. The goal was for each member to attend two extra-curricular events a month in which Kappas were involved.

During recruitment in 1997, the chapter pledged 21 new members. Their Homecoming float won first place and raised money for the American Heart Association. Scholarship remained a high priority for the chapter in 1997 and once again it had the highest GPA 3.082 on the campus, the all women’s GPA was 3.053 and the campus GPA was 2.945. The chapter received an award Give a Hoot for overall excellence at the 1997 Epsilon Province Meeting. The goal for the chapter was “to strive to improve unity and consideration of others through increased participation in all chapter and campus events.”

'''Philanthropy:'''
During this decade the chapter continued to hold its annual golf tournaments at Gibson Woods Golf Course. Proceeds were given to the Warren Achievement Center.
In 1990 the chapter members wrote letters of support to the troops in the Middle East. It was hoped these letters would boost their morale. In October 1991 the chapter went to a local elementary school to help raise money. The women worked at the school’s carnival.
Additional philanthropies carried out by the chapter were Dollar Days, reading to local elementary school classes, decorating a local nursing home.

In the fall of 1994, Kappas donated money and necessary personal items such as toothpaste and shampoo to a battered women’s shelter. It also participated in Book Week at the Warren County Library. The children there had their favorite book read to them by enthusiastic Kappas. The pledges organized a Breakfast with Santa for Monmouth children. During 1995 the chapter continued book week at the local library and they made a beautiful bulletin board which featured the children with their favorite books.

The new member classes from each sorority faced off in a challenge to collect clothes for the Jamison Center. The pledges sponsored a Christmas Party at the Pinewood Nursing Home and entertained the residents with Christmas Carols. In 1996 the chapter organized the Pizza Roll which brought 50 underprivileged children to the local roller rink. After skating, the children were served pizza.

In 1995, it continued the annual golf tournament with the proceeds going to the Warren Avenue Center, the Kappa Foundation and the Muscular Dystrophy Association. The members continued with book week and organized Jail N’ Bail which benefited the Breast Cancer Research Foundation and participated in Rose McGill’s Holiday Sharing program. This year’s new member class enjoyed their Christmas party which was held at the Pinewood Nursing Home.

1997 began with numerous philanthropic events which demonstrated the strength and dedication of the chapter. The second annual pizza roll with Sigma Phi Epsilon brought smiles to the faces of 50 children from the community. The event included two hours of roller skating followed by pizza.
The chapter held a Teetertotterathon in the spring and made contributions to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and the Kappa Foundation from the funds raised. Alpha also sponsored a Rose McGill Kappa, a blood drive and another successful Jail N’ Bail from which the proceeds were donated to Breast Cancer Research and served as Bell Ringers for the Heart Association during Christmas time.

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

Alpha was ranked first scholastically on campus and with a 3.25 average and was above the all-sorority GPA. In 2005, the chapter had a very successful recruitment and pledged 20 wonderful women. Each of them proved to be an asset to the chapter and many were recently elected to offices as sophomores.

Once again the chapter had the highest GPA on campus among both Greeks and non-Greeks. It received an award for outstanding chapter operations at our Greek Week Banquet.
One thing the chapter wanted to do was plan more exciting social events and to accomplish this our social chairman planned new exchanges and events. One of these exchanges was a decadence night at the Monmouth Soda Works with another sorority, Alpha Xi Delta. There are also many new social events and exchanges planned for the coming year. This year has been amazing and we hope that next year will be even better.

'''Philanthropy:'''
Alpha chapter participated in many successful philanthropies: took part in a mentoring program in one of the local schools. the Relay For Life and many of our members held positions as committee heads and members. the New Members planned a philanthropy called Rent a Kappa which raised $500.

Campus 2005: 1,200 students, All student GPA 2.90, All Greek GPA 3.02
Chapter 2005: 60 members, GPA 3.2

The Monmouth College campus is located one block from The Stewart House, former home of Minnie Stewart, one of the Fraternity Founders. It is a small private Liberal Arts college. In 2006, there were 63 members in the chapter and 19 New Members. The chapter’s meetings are held in Marshall Hall which is the oldest building on campus.

The 2006 archives display was shown in the chapter room and included the following items: Outstanding Achievement In Unity, Loyalty, and Gracious Living, Greek Week 2005, photo album, the Founder's pictures, old board with keys, 2003-2004 Challenge for Excellence, Kappa books, stick candle holder, pledge class 2002 gift, keys and lock in picture frame, class of 2004 gift, owl house, 1870-1913 Kappa Kappa Gamma directory, 3 of the Founder's badges, pledge pin from 1916, 1998-2002 Scholarship Award, pitcher, Outstanding Achievement 2000, and "The Key.”
This was a great year for the Alpha Chapter, not only did the chapter have an amazing recruitment, but it gained 19 wonderful new members. Kappa formal was held in the spring of 2006 and was a great success. In the fall of 2006, Kappa was awarded the Homecoming Spirit Award for having the most spirit on campus. At Convention, Kappa was received two awards. Through the year of 2006 Kappa Kappa Gamma has had great relations with the Greek Life on campus.

Alpha Deuteron Chapter had an excellent 2010. In the spring the chapter received word from the College that Kappa would finally have a home for the sisters to live and gather.
The chapter had excellent fall recruitment where we gained 15 wonderful new members. During homecoming week, Kappa was awarded third place in the homecoming parade and float competition. Also, the chapter participated for the first time in a community event known as, The Great Cardboard Boat Regatta. It gallantly came away with the Titanic award for most dramatic sinking.
Once again, the chapter was recognized for the highest GPA on campus including the highest New Member GPA yet. The chapter had a successful philanthropic endeavor where the sisters bonded together. They created friendship bracelets for children suffering from severe illnesses in the OSF hospital in Peoria. They were given as a Christmas donation.

Monmouth College enacted the first steps toward building houses for all Greek Life members. The three sororities present on campus received individual houses for the first time in the fall of 2010. Also, the school received a Jumbotron, as a gracious donation from an alum, for the football field.

A lovely home was graciously given to Kappa Kappa Gamma by Monmouth College in the fall of 2010. It has been a wonderful opportunity for the chapter to create a true home for the actives as well as the alumnae.

The opportunity for the members to now come together in one area and hold various sisterhoods, activities and chapter meetings in the house has been a wonderful bonding experience. A higher form of chapter unity is consistently a sought after goal. Through holding monthly key sisterhoods and having a home to enjoy our sisters in has made such the goal more feasible. Likewise, the chapter must better learn how to utilize Kappa resources, such as the website.

'''Honoring Kappa’s Origins'''

The earliest days of Kappa were memorialized at Monmouth College in 2010 with the dedication of a marker near the site of the rustic wooden bridge where a few young women spoke of forming a secret society of their own. Another marker was placed at the home of Kappa Founder Martha Louisa “Lou” Stevenson –the site of Kappa’s first business meeting, when the golden key was chosen as the official badge. Both markers were funded by a grant from the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation’s Museums Committee.

Fraternity President Denise Rugani, UC Davis, and Alpha Chapter President Lindsay Trafton, Monmouth, unveiled the historic marker during a weekend celebration coinciding with the date of the college’s founding in 1853. Denise said, “For me to be part of the dedication of the markers at Monmouth College was truly one of the most special moments of my time as Fraternity President. These markers are a reminder to all of the power of the women’s movement in America. They keep the message of our Founders alive. From a time when few women were admitted to college, these women not only attended college but also had the dream of creating a women’s organization equal to that of the men’s fraternal organizations. Today it is our moral imperative to keep their vision alive and pass it on to future generations.”

It was on a pedestrian trestle bridge over a stream that ran though the Monmouth College campus where Kappa Founders met to pursue their dream of a secret Greek society similar to those of the male students. The marker is located at the approximate midpoint of the block-long bridge, which stood until the early 20th century when the stream was diverted underground.

Among Fraternity officers present were Kay Smith Larson, Washington, Fraternity Historian and former Fraternity President. Kay recalled how the Monmouth College policy of admitting women on an equal footing with men since its earliest days helped lay the groundwork for the founding of the first national secret collegiate society for women, Pi Beta Phi, at Monmouth in 1867, followed by Kappa just three years later.

Monmouth College Trustees and Alpha Chapter alumnae Gail Simpson Owen and Barbara Watt Johnson attended the dedication and Gail reflected on the meaning of the bridge. She said, “The metaphor of a bridge is fitting as we build bridges to take us from one place to another; from the known to the unknown, an arduous journey made easier with a bridge, a connection. For me, the Kappa Bridge spanned the distance from my family 5,000 miles away to my new sisters and friends. I recognize that it is our turn to build the next bridge for those who come after us.”

==Highlights of 2011==

This calendar year for Kappa Kappa Gamma has been a tremendous year. In fall recruitment 2011 we were blessed with 21 beautiful new babies. Pledge class 2011 has brought so many new things to our chapter. In accordance with that, our chapter also received the highest cumulative GPA on campus. We all have been working hard to keep attaining this reward and we are all very proud of our sisters.

During Homecoming this year, our chapter participated in the Spirit Shout dance and we received second place. Homecoming week really brought our chapter together. The 21 babies worked together and made a homecoming float that was so beautiful! The spring 2011 pledge class worked on a banner that also came out terrific.As far as philanthropies go, our chapter started a program with the Roseville Retirement Home. About two times a week, a group of Kappas go to the home and help out in any way we can. Another thing our chapter participated in last semester was the Special Olympics. A large group of us went to the local bowling alley and helped the participants and also helped make sure everything was running smoothly.

'''Campus:''' At Monmouth College we are currently in the process of getting a new science and business building. The progress seems to be right on track, and I know everyone is excited to see the final result.

'''Chapter:''' We moved our meetings from the Kappa house to Marshall Hall. At Marshall Hall we have a greater amount of space to make the meetings run smoothly.

Our chapter is currently going through a stage where we seem to be divided. In the beginning of the year our sisterhood was outstanding, but right now we are kind of in a slump. We are trying to become one again by discussing what our chapter values are and seeing how we can all share our great love for Kappa together again. We are also planning more sisterhoods to bring us together.

==Highlights of 2012==

For the previous calendar year we did not participate in many philanthropy events but we did participate in Relay for Life with College Against Cancer. We held a parents breakfast which we collaborated with our academics banquet. While celebrating Founder's Day we had the privileged of also hosting the pinning ceremony. We yet again achieved the highest Greek GPA for the fall semester. We had many goals for this year, while some of them we are still defeating, some of them we overcame. Our chapter goals were to increase attendance at events, better communication skills, and also a stronger sisterhood. We have developed a stronger sisterhood but still need work on the attendance of events.

The two major changes to our campus this past year are the building of our new science building and the new 4-4 plan. The building started last year but is still currently under construction. The 4-4 plan is a change that effected all students at the school negatively or positively. The overall nature of our chapter is headed in the right direction. For the new year we have started off on the right foot. We are currently working on our communication and interpersonal skills which has shown improvement. We are working on our attendance at events which has increased. We have reached out to the community and got our name out there. We have strengthened our sisterhood. We are improving the nature of our chapter each and everyday.

== Highlights of 2013==

In the previous calendar year, in the spring semester we gained 6 new members through informal recruitment. We hosted our first annual Spaghetti Dinner at the local church in Monmouth for our first semester philanthropy event. We raised $550 which we donated to the Children’s Neuroblastoma Cancer Foundation. We also participated in our Journal Buddies program where we wrote letters back and forth with local elementary schools students and visited them at the end of first semester. We hosted “Love and Loyal-tea” which was held at the Stewart House. Members of the Knox Chapter attended as well as a guest speaker that spoke about professionalism. Our chapter also had a ritual review history program and recruitment workshops to help keep our members up to date.

As far as our grades, we maintained the highest GPA of all Greek Life at Monmouth College. We set goals to improve our adviser and officer relations as well as increase the strength in the leadership roles of our officers. To reach that our officers watched their webinars and worked together to help each other as a tighter unit. In the fall semester, we gained 14 new members through formal recruitment as well as two more COBs. We continued our Journal Buddy program and for our philanthropy event we hosted a “Kappa Karnival” on our campus. It was not as successful as we had hoped but it was a learning experience. We raised $300, which was donated to put together care packages to send to U.S. troops.

To reach our ongoing goal from the previous semester about our officers, he held three separate officer-training workshops. Two of the workshops were with all of the officers and advisers. The other workshop was a meeting between the incoming and outgoing officers. We also set a goal to improve on turning documents in on time. Although we improved a bit on this, we still have progress to make in getting everything in on time. As far as helping with world/local events we did this on three separate occasions. Two of these were due to unfortunate natural disasters. One of the members of our school’s staff was victim to a house fire.

We donated our slightly used/new clothes and shoes as well as toiletries to her and her family. Also, when there was the tornado disaster in Washington, Il, we sent cards and donated money to Red Cross to help in relief. For world events, we put together Christmas packages which one of our members sent out to her brother and his fellow troop members in the Army. Overall, we could have been more active in philanthropy and special events, but besides that we had a pretty successful semester and we definitely improved on our goal to strengthen officer positions, although there will always be room for improvement.

There was a new “Fraternity” added to campus in the Fall of 2013. This added an additional amount of Greeks to campus and another Greek organization. Now the total number of Greek organizations is at 9. The new building called the Center for Science and Business was completed and classes began holding in there. The overall nature of our chapter, technically, is stronger than in the past. In 2013, we began holding members more accountable for their actions through the Standards Committee. One thing we hope to improve on is turning documents in on time; this includes EPFs, Driver’s Forms, Round Robins and individual officer reports. Also, the chapter wants to improve on sisterhood and morale by holding more sisterhoods and unity bonding sessions.

== Highlights of 2014==

In the spring our chapter received six new members. We held the annual spaghetti dinner in February. Members from our organization made and served food for the community and raised over one thousand dollars for the Jameison center in Monmouth, IL. We also donated books to the Jameison center children in early November. As a chapter we hosted "Love and Loyal-tea" at the Stewart house with the Knox Kappa chapter. In May, around graduation we held a senior alumni ceremony. At this ceremony we acknowledged and gave thanks to all of our seniors members. In August we gained twenty-six new members through formal recruitment. In October we held initiation for our twenty-six new members. Our chapter also participated in a Journal Buddies program local United Way elementary school. This activity involved girls writing back and forth on a weekly basis with the students of the elementary school. At the end of the ten week program a day was arranged to meet with their journal buddies and personally get to know one another. This is where the girls get to meet their buddies, play games, read books, and craft with them. We also ran a pancake breakfast partnering with local AppleBees in late November. We sold the maximum number of tickets and made close to one thousand dollars for an organization called Stella's Voice (Monmouth College Human Trafficking organization). Along with our two main philanthropy events, many members logged community service hours on their own. We had four members participate in a week long service project called Alternative Spring Break. They partnered with Habitat for Humanity and each logged 50 hours of consistent hard labor for the week. We also celebrated Founders Day where we visited and sang at the burial sites of Minnie Stewart, Anna Willits, and Susan Walker. During our homecoming week we won awards for our banner and spirit shout chant. At Province we won an honorable mention award, and at our annual Greek Week Banquet our Advisor Polly Timmerman won Chapter Advisor of the year. Many of our members were also acknowledged for making it onto the Dean's list and for being in multiple Greek honor programs such as; Alpha Lambda Delta, Blue Key, and Order of Omega. In relation to academics, we were first overall in GPA of our spring semester, and in the fall we were third place overall. Our goal is to improve our GPA and get first overall next semester. We will do this by holding each other accountable for our studying and tracking hours on a Google Docs system. Along with this we will have new study files to help our members succeed academically, and we have installed a group document to log all of our weekly study hours. To improve communication, which has been another weakness in our chapter, we have held two leadership trainings for incoming officers, as well as triplet meetings that involve advisors. This way we can insure the new officers are prepared for their position and have the knowledge they need to excel. We are also planning multiple programs about how to strengthen communication and how different personalities communicate in different ways. In relation to local crises, a member of Kappa was victim to a house fire. We donated any clothes or household items we could to that member and her family. Overall our chapter had a successful year and the goals we have set for our chapter will only help us improve further.

We are a heavily involved, studious, and welcoming chapter. Majority of our members are involved in multiple organizations, clubs, and sports teams. Many students on campus know Kappas for their involvement and campus participation. Our campus was given a new College President. He has personally reached out to campus organizations and always asks/participates in some of our activities. He was also involved in our Homecoming activities. This past year we have redecorated the interior of our house with freshly painted walls and new living room furniture. This redecoration also includes a new study room available to all members, providing them with a quiet place to study. We have provided all members with an equal opportunity to hold in their possession a key to our house. This would allow them twenty-four access to a quiet and secluded study room. In our study room we also have a printer that is free to every member's use. Chapter council is also requiring a communication/leadership seminar unlike previous years. Our chapter overall is becoming more responsible, such as with paying for dues on time and turning in documents on time. Another sorority on campus, Pi Beta Phi was approved for new housing, and will begin construction Spring 2015. Next year we will have the smallest and oldest house out of all sororities at Monmouth College.

We hold meetings in Marshall Hall on Sundays, it is a college owned facility. For Chapter Council all meeting are held in the common room at our Kappa House. We have a house where members have the opportunity to live together, this house is college owned. A total of seven members can live in the house at one time. This is the only house in our chapter's history.

== Highlights of 2015==

There have been many changes and improvements in Alpha chapter this year. In the spring our chapter received three new members. In February we held our annual spaghetti dinner, raising $1,800 for the Jamieson Center, which is a local community center in town. We also donated books to the Jamieson Center children in early December. In October our chapter made over 120 trick-or-treat bags for the Jamieson Center as well. Alpha chapter participated in Relay for Life and raised over $2,000 for the cause making us the largest donation by any team, our contribution made up the majority of the funds for the event. Our chapter also organized a Reading is Key event at our local library. Our Reading is Key event was Curious George themed, each child received a book, and local firemen came and read to the children to get the community involved in our efforts to promote literacy. Alpha chapter also participated in a stuffed animal drive, and collected over 75 stuffed animals to donate for the event.

In May, around graduation we held a senior alumni ceremony. At this ceremony we acknowledged and gave thanks to all of our seniors members. We also held a senior brunch in May where our chapter expressed appreciation for our seniors through speeches and gifts. We also held an alumna orientation for our seniors as the year came to an end. In August we gained twenty-two new members through formal recruitment. In October we held initiation for our twenty-two new members. In September we held our annual Pancake Breakfast event, raising $1,016 for Reading is Fundamental and $100 of the funds was donated to the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation. Our chapter also participated in a Journal Buddies program with the local United Way elementary school. This activity involved girls writing back and forth on a weekly basis with the students of the elementary school. At the end of the ten week program a day was arranged to meet with their journal buddies and personally get to know one another. This is where the girls get to meet their buddies, play games, read books, and craft with them. Alpha chapter participated in a program called Adopt-A-Classroom. Through this program, Alpha chapter financially adopted a classroom through Charleston Hope, which will supply inner-city kids in schools with Christmas gifts. Along with our major philanthropy events, many members logged community service hours on their own.

In October our chapter celebrated Founder’s Day, where we visited and sang at the burial sites of Minnie Stewart, Anna Willits, and Susan Walker. We also hosted a Founder’s Day Banquet, in which the Eta Kappa chapter of Knox College and many Kappa alumni attended. Events such as our Founder’s Day Banquet have helped our chapter maintain close relationships with our alum and local chapters, which has always been a goal we strive to achieve. During our homecoming week, we won first overall out of all the organizations on campus. Through an awards banquet on our campus Kappa was acknowledged for many awards such as: third place in academic programming, honorable mention in campus involvement, honorable mention in community service/civic engagement, first place emerging female leader, first place advisor of the year, first place outstanding chapter program- for our pancake breakfast. Many of our members were also acknowledged for making it onto the Dean's list and for being in multiple Greek honor programs such as; Alpha Lambda Delta, Blue Key, and Order of Omega.

In relation to academics, our chapter has been ranked third in overall sorority GPA. Our academics have been a challenging area for our chapter because we strive to place first overall in GPA and help all of our members succeed academically. Our chapter has implemented study files to help our members improve. Through the application of the new GIN system our members will also be held accountable for their academics through logging study hours. Not only are members expected to be accountable through academics, we also have made efforts to improve overall accountability. A way we have dedicated time to improving accountability is through “accountability buddies”, where each member has a partner that they encourage to attend events and keep each other responsible. Another effort our chapter has made to increase accountability has been through committee meetings. By getting all members more involved in Kappa events and fundamentals, this will increase all members’ involvement and commitment to the chapter. To improve communication, which has been another weakness in our chapter, we have held two leadership trainings for incoming officers, as well as triplet meetings that involve advisors. Each officer has their own advisor, which has helped with communication because each officer knows who they should be in contact with for questions or concerns specifically. Overall our chapter had a successful year and the goals we have set for our chapter will only help us improve further.

Alpha chapter excels in the area of campus and community involvement. Not only have we donated to Reading is Fundamental and the Kappa Kappa Gamma foundation, but we focus heavily on donating to the community and representing Kappa in a philanthropic way around our community and campus. The majority of our members are involved in other organizations and athletic teams, as well as honors societies. This past year we have redecorated the interior of our house with freshly painted walls and new living room furniture. This redecoration also includes a new study room available to all members, providing them with a quiet place to study. We have provided all members with an equal opportunity to hold in their possession a key to our house. This would allow them twenty-four access to a quiet and secluded study room. In our study room we also have a printer that is free to every member's use. Chapter council is also requiring a communication/leadership seminar unlike previous years. Another change our chapter has seen is the recommendation of service hours, which has not been implemented in the past. Our chapter now encourages 5 service hours per semester. Our chapter overall is becoming more responsible, such as with paying for dues on time and turning in documents on time. Another sorority on campus, Pi Beta Phi has continued construction on their new house. Our chapter has continued to work towards achieving new housing.

Chapter Philanthropy:

What organization(s) has your chapter historically/traditionally raised money for, or donated hours to, in your community?

Our chapter frequently donates to the Jamieson Center in our town. The Jamieson Center is a non-profit organization primarily serving residents of Warren County. Their programs are designed to increase food security and help people with essential services.

Why did your chapter choose this organization(s) to support?

This organization directly affects the residents in Monmouth’s community and our chapter finds our commitment to this organization very important. Seeing the impact of our contributions to a local organization is extremely gratifying for our chapter, and it also gives Kappa a good name in Monmouth’s community.

== Highlights of 2016 ==

2016 has been a very successful year for our chapter. Many girls received scholarships from the foundation and Monmouth College which helped them flourish in their studies. As a chapter Kappa Kappa Gamma won Greek Week in the Spring. With Greek Week we won Chapter Education and Programming, Involvement and Leadership Education, along with honorable mention for Academic Accountability, Community Service, and Philanthropy. We won the Spirit Shout competition in the Fall for our college’s homecoming. Through convention we won the standards award. We also received honorable mention in Panhellenic relations, advisory board relations, and heritage award. We celebrated founders day, and even started a possible new tradition of recreating what our 6 founders did in 1870 and walked through Dahl Chapel with keys in our hair. We’ve had mom and dad weekends which families and girls seems to love and enjoy greatly. We had Formal in the spring which was Great Gatsby themed, and semi-formal in the fall which was “You Are What You Netflix” themed, both were of great success.

Also wanting our chapter to be a great success we came up with many chapter goals which include improve relationship between the Standards Committee and General Members, improve accountability through the use of fact based and unbiased processes (example: Chapter upholding our fraternity standards), increase overall chapter GPA, provide better communication regarding finances to all members, and increase knowledge of Fraternity History. Kappa has stayed involved within Greek life and many girls have attended other philanthropic events along with working hard at our own. In the Spring Kappa's Spaghetti Dinner event raised $2,300. $600 was donated back to the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation and $1,700 was donated to the Jameson Center. Then in September we held the Pancake Breakfast. This event raised $1,070. $400 went to expenses (venue and food), $150 was donated back to the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation, and $520 was donated back to the Jameson Center. Many Kappas here our tutors, have been electoral judges, and volunteer their time within the community and libraries and animal shelters.

On campus our chapter has received a new home and we are graciously waiting to move in. Pi Beta Phi also received a new chapter home in the spring. Altogether our chapter has been working very hard to be the best that we can be and do the best with which we do. Friendship truly is our binding tie, and we are a close kit group that is supportive and cherishing of one another. This year with the presidential election, campus itself had a lot of tension but we as a group did not that effect our relationships with one another. Along with our new home we also received some new members. In the Fall of formal recruitment we gained 11 new members, and with continuous open bidding a week later gained 4 more. After initiation took place on October 22, some weeks later we held another COB event where we gained another two new members who eagerly await to get settled in with our chapter.

Our chapter frequently raises money for RIF, the Jamison Center, and Safe Harbor. This year we actually added Safe Harbor on where we donate funds and supplies, and put in hours helping the organization in many other ways in which we can. RIF being our philanthropy we’re happy to do things for. We also do things for the Jamison Center to help families and children in need in our community by donating food, books, and money. Safe Harbor is an organization that hits close to home for a lot of girls. So to help women in need we donate money, books, and clothes to this organization as well as our time.

Currently, we meet in our new chapter home in the living room. Prior to this, we met in an auditorium in an academic building. It's a great privilege that we have received a new home and are utilizing the space as much as we can since we have not moved in yet. We have sisterhoods, open houses, chapter, and exchanges. We await to move in patiently and are very excited for the opportunity.

==Highlights of 2017==
This has been a very busy year for Alpha Chapter. This year’s Greek Week was also an exciting and successful presentation of our chapter to the rest of campus. We placed second overall and won several awards including Outstanding chapter Program; Spheres of Influence, Academic Achievement, Excellence in Chapter Management and an Honorable Mention in the areas of Community Service, Philanthropy, Membership, Recruitment and Public Relations. Alpha Chapter also achieved the highest Spring GPA of 2017 amongst the other sororities on campus. We can now say that we have moved into our beautiful new house. We held a House Dedication on April 28. Many alumni and Beth Black attended the event. There is room currently for seven women to stay in the house. We still have Chapter and other events in the “Sisterhood Living Room”. This past Founders Day Celebration we went as a chapter to visit the graves of some of our founders. We then continued our new tradition of walking through Dahl Chapel. This year the chapter opted to have mom and dad weekends as one event called Family Weekend, that was held during Monmouth’s own Family Weekend. There were goodie bags to make and families could go and watch the football game together. Formal was themed “Under the Sea” and was a fun time for everyone. This year we did not have a traditional semi-formal. We instead had a “Fall Event” named "Falling in Love With Kappa", at one of the active’s farmhouse. There were s’mores, hayrides, crafts and games to play. This year for philanthropy we did our traditional spaghetti dinner and raised almost $1000 for Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation, as well as Reading is Fundamental. We were unable to hold our regular RIF event, so all of the books we collected this year were donated to a senior education major’s new library. We decided to donate the extra food to the Jamieson Center here in Monmouth. This October we teamed up with the Kappa chapter located at Knox College and had a Kappa Kolor Run. This event raised $500 dollars and the proceeds were donated to the Rose McGill Aid Fund. During recruitment this year, the chapter and potential new members created adoption bags for the Warren County Animal Rescue. The chapter is also reaching out to the community through Journal Buddies. Journal Buddies are through a Kappa that is student teaching. She pairs an active with a child and the class and they write letters to each other.

As for other awards, this Homecoming a Kappa alum was inducted into the Order of Omega Hall of Fame. The Academic Excellence Committee had a wonderful Academic Banquet and awarded beautiful owl pins to members that were named on the Dean’s List. Regarding academics, the chapter also won the fraternity’s Study Hour Challenge this past February. We had a pizza party to celebrate. The Risk Chairman put on some great programs this year. Two important ones were Self-Defense and CPR recertification. We still are striving for better relationship between the Standards Committee and the general members. Another goal for our chapter is to increase the number girls that pay their dues on time. This past semester we have had two lovely Leadership Consultants come and help us find ways to improve our chapter. This year’s Bystander Intervention was a new speaker and taught the chapter and campus new ways to help improve the safety of campus. The Alcohol Skills Training program this year was interesting and was interactive enough to keep our interest.

==Highlights of 2018==
Over the last year we have grown as a chapter. Not only did we take in three new members during the spring, they were able to join us in the philanthropy event. For that event we raised money for Reading is Fundamental by selling grilled cheese to the people in Monmouth. We also had a wonderful Formal which was Sapphire ball theme. In the fall we took in 17 wonderful new members and they were able to join the second Philanthropy even of the year which is we donated books to a local school and read to the children in the name of our Reading is Fundamental. This fall semester we were able to bring back duo days with Pi Beta Phi this is an event where we spilt the money raise in half and donate it toward each of our philanthropy. For Founder’s Day we invited the Knox Chapter to come and visit the graves and Stewart House and they also partook in ritual with us. We had risk event in the fall which we invited other Greek organization for around campus to. Recently, we had our Semi Formal which was Come On Barbie let’s Date Party theme. At the end of the year we will be partaking in our leadership day event. Our chapter goal is to have everyone accountable to attend events. We have become closer as a chapter and are able to freely express ourselves to be the best we can be.

The campus had about 250 new incoming students with only about 50 girls going through the recruitment processes. As a chapter we took in 17 new members who are extremely strong leaders and stand for the core values as a chapter. Our chapter philanthropy is Reading is Fundamental. We also support Western Illinois Humane Society.
It is an organization that hits close to home for many of us. They are a nonprofit organization that finds homes for several types of animals. Members of our chapter volunteer hours to play with the animals and socialize them.

For informal meetings we as a chapter meet in the Center of Science and Business in the auditorium which is room 100. And for formal meetings with meet at the Kappa house in the informal living room. This fall semester we had the privilege of accepting 17 lovely new members to our chapter. On this past bid day in August, the chapter was surprised by the attendance of both Gail Owen and Beth Black to help us celebrate the special day. Initiation was held on October 28th and the chapter now has 56 active members. After Initiation this year we were treated to a wonderful brunch made for us by several volunteer alumnae. For this year’s Homecoming, the theme was Monmouth Traditions. The chapter had lots of fun at the activities planned for the week such as; trivia night, a boat regatta, and the spirit shout and dance. Our float in the parade this year had alumnae on board and won first place. We are ending the year strong and are excited for our new Chapter Council, our new Panhellenic President and next semester!

==Highlights of 2019==

Alpha Chapter had a very busy year in 2019! Classes resumed for Monmouth College on January 14th. Leadership day was held on the 19th for all new officers, and we started the new pilot structure. We had a fun sisterhood and Spring Recruitment began as well. This February was not as busy as usual. We celebrated Inspirational Person’s Day on the 9th with a special person in our lives. On Valentine’s Day, we had a fun sisterhood and the Kappa Krush philanthropy which raised $22 for the Jamieson Center in Monmouth. We hosted a Leadership Consultant from February 24th through March 1st. Spring Break for the college began on the 1st and continued until the 10th. Greek Week began on the 17th and went through the 22nd. A self-defense class sisterhood was held on March 25th. It was fun and incredibly useful! Formal was on March 30th and the theme was Light up the Night. The new members had their New Member retreat on April 5th and Inspiration Period began the next week after the Return of the Pledge pin. They were formally initiated on April 13th. Seniors were celebrated during Senior Week by Senior Slideshow, Bloom into Alumni and the senior sisterhood. The whole chapter celebrated and wished the seniors luck at the Senior Banquet on April 28th. In May, the day before finals began, the VP of Internal Affairs, Angie, held an all day sisterhood study session with doughnuts. Graduation was on May 12th and seven of our sisters walked across the stage. The Fall semester began on August 14th for us, with Greek Life move in and the first day of Work Week. The chapter was present at the annual Involvement Fair and had lots of fun and girls interested by the end of the night! There were three sisterhoods that were focused on team bonding and getting to know their sisters better. Fall Recruitment began on August 20th and Bid Day was on the 24th. This Bid Day we had fourteen lovely ladies run to meet us outside of Wallace Hall. The Bid Day party theme this year was That 70s Show where we danced, tie-dyed and took pictures until our hearts content. Later that evening, we had a candle pass with Alpha Xi Delta and Pi Beta Phi honoring all our new members and our seniors. Formal pledging followed on the 25th and 26th. September began with New Member Meetings and Senior Orientation. On the 14th, Kappa held the Kappa Kickball Event to raise money for the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation. $55 was raised for the Foundation. Family Weekend for the college and Kappa was the 27th through the 29th, with a football game and the Academic Banquet on Sunday. On the first Friday in October, the new members had their New Member retreat. On Sunday the 6th, we celebrated Founder’s Day be traveling to the graves of three of our founders and singing to them followed by the candle ceremony and chapter. Fall Break began on the 9th and several members returned early on the 13th to meet the Minnie Stewart Van for the 150th kickoff at the Stewart House. It was an amazing experience to be a part of and Alpha Chapter is grateful for the opportunity! Homecoming was on the 18th and 19th with Kappa coming in 2nd for the Spirit Shout Dance. Sunday the 20th was Return of the Pledge Pin and the beginning of the Inspiration Period. New members became new actives on the 26th and after Initiation was over we had an amazing breakfast thanks to the Alumni. On the 27th, the new actives attended a new member retreat for all new Greek Life on campus. There was a Halloween exchange with Sigma Phi Epsilon where we watched scary movies. Alpha Chapter had the privilege to experience the leadTODAY program offered by Headquarters on November 2nd. We learned a lot and are excited to try all the new ideas we were given! The Nominating Committee was selection and the election process began. On November 7th and 8th, we volunteered at local schools to be reading buddies for the day and gift a child with a book of their very own. Semi-Formal was on the 9th and the theme was Vines and memes; everyone had a good laugh. On the 13th we had a trivia night exchange with Phi Delta Theta and the dip sisterhood/exchange with Alpha Tau Omega on the 14th. The slate was presented on the 14th as well and on Sunday the 17th elections were held. Duo Days was on the 20th and the 21st; we read Dr. Seuss books to raise money and had a spa day sisterhood. Officer Installations were on the 24th and we are excited for all of our new officers! A COB event was held on the 25th and was very successful. On Reading Day, the day before finals begins, there will be a sisterhood study group and a yoga class.

==Highlights of 2020:==

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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!"Summarize the previous calendar year, scholarships, group honors/awards, Convention awards, traditions, special events, philanthropic involvement, chapter goals, challenges and how they were overcome, and world/local events the chapter participated in or helped with (e.g., presidential campaigns, natural disasters, etc.).

2020 was a unique year that created challenges to normal chapter functions. However, the members of Kappa Kappa Gamma Alpha chapter adapted through innovative sisterhoods, a virtual recruitment, and a virtual initiation shared with Iota and Theta Alpha chapters.

The first chapter of the year was held on January 19th. A Tik-Tok sisterhood was held on January 29th, where sisters made fun videos together at the Kappa house. On Super-bowl Sunday, house girls invited sisters over and made lots of different tailgating foods to celebrate. On February 7th, there was a sisterhood with the Eta chapter at the Stewart house where members made DIY scrunchies. A Galentine’s Day Sisterhood was held on Thursday, February 13th. Sisters made cute Valentine’s Day cards, decorated and painted picture frames, ate snacks, and took cute and goofy pictures in a photo area. Composites were taken on Wednesday, February 19th. The New Member Retreat was February 21st.The chapter had an exchange with Phi Delta on February 23rd, where members sang Karaoke. Inspiration week started Sunday, February 23rd and initiation was held on the 29th where one new member was initiated. Members left for Spring Break on March 6th and were not allowed to return due to Covid-19. A mother/daughter tea party event was scheduled for March 21st and was canceled. A Reading is Key philanthropy event “Grilled Cheese with KKGs” on Sunday, March 22nd was also canceled. Alpha chapter had been paired with ZBT for Greek Week activities but was unable to participate due to Covid. Formal theme was the Roaring 20s and was scheduled for April 18th but was canceled due to Covid. Keynoted chapter minuets were sent to members during the lockdown the first Sundays of April and May to keep members engaged and aware of chapter activities. There were three optional Zoom meetings for members to attend if they needed to reach out. There was a virtual sisterhood, where members played an online card game. Due to the fast change of plans Covid created, many things had to be altered in order to make seniors feel as though they were not forgotten. Our VP of Member Development tried to do as much as possibly for them given that we were unable to hold the Senior Banquet or most of the Senior Week Activities. To make up for what they lost, people in the chapter wrote notes or letters to a senior or seniors of their choice and then those were emailed to them during Senior Week. Our chapter was able to order them all bouquets of flowers and had them sent to their home address for them to receive during Senior Week. The seniors all received their gifts from the chapter at their homes. Our chapter still did a Senior Slideshow, and we were able to watch it together on a Zoom call. There was a Zoom study session hosted for finals.

Some sisters returned to campus on August 13th, while some sisters remained virtual for the semester. Work week occurred virtually and included a DEI presentation by the college’s Intercultural Life Director. The theme for recruitment was Falling in Love with Kappa. Recruitment was moved online the night before it began. However, our incredible exec board was able to make the arrangements necessary to move to virtual recruitment, marking our chapter’s first ever online recruitment process. We met a lot of great PNMs and ended up with 11 perfect new members who are great additions to the chapter! We look forward to seeing where their Kappa journey takes them. Bid day was on August 22nd and pledging occurred on August 23rd, on the tennis court outside. The chapter has conducted most business virtually and any in-person activities were socially distanced and in compliance with state and federal guidelines. The chapter has worked extremely hard this year to improve our diversity, equity, and inclusion. This semester, we decided to push the idea of DEI more into our chapter in hopes to expand our knowledge on the topics and learn from each other. We held a few programs that involved the topic of DEI and we also started a new chapter segment called "All the Hoot." We placed this segment in the VP of Member Development section of our chapter. This segment was started to allow sisters to talk about popular issues in the news, issues that are important to them, hard to talk about issues, etc. We wanted to provide a safe place for discussion of these important topics so we could evolve as a chapter. Our goal was to be respectful of everyone's opinions, be willing to learn, be open and honest, and to make our bond stronger. This segment has been very interesting and beneficial to our chapter thus far and we hope to continue it. We know that we still have a lot of work to do as individuals and as a chapter to continue to learn and grow in the field of DEI. We have elected a DEI Director to our exec board to continue to promote our chapter’s growth. In an effort to promote mental health awareness and inclusivity, our chapter hosted Behind Happy Faces on November 21st.

The slate was released November 12th, and elections were held on November 15th. Officer installations were November 22nd.
Campus overall has a very politically polarized and charged atmosphere. Between COVID-19 restrictions, rising cases, the recent presidential election, and overall division amongst Americans have left Monmouth a very polarized place. Our chapter is not excluded from this division, and we have recently faced division amongst members and issues with being called out for being racist by non-members on campus. These issues have left us a very divided chapter. "

We chose Western Illinois Animal Rescue as our philanthropy, because it requires a lot of volunteer work and donations to keep it going. We really like helping out at WIAR because we enjoying working with the staff and supporting all the animals there.

We did not have a specific Founders Day ceremony or 150th Anniversary celebration due to COVID restrictions. "

==Highlights of 2021==

January:
Classes resumed on the 25th of January. Executive Board meetings were held every Monday at 5:30pm, and the Standards Committee met every Tuesday at 6:30pm on Zoom. A formal meeting was held on the 31st on Zoom,

February:
Zoom Leadership Day/Officer Transitioning took place on February 7th. Kappa Cocoa was held on the 11th. An informal meeting was held on the 14th, and two MLK workshops were held on the 18th. Two ritual reviews and a formal chapter were held on the 21st. A Sisterhood where sisters could play Among Us and another MLK Workshop was held on Zoom on the 25th. A Senior Education program and programming night were held on the 28th.

March:
Recruitment Workshops were held on the 5th and 6th of March at the house. A department night was held on Zoom on the 7th. A DEI Book Club was held on the 11th. Composites were taken on the 12th, and two recruitment workshops were held on the 12th and 13th. A formal meeting was held on the 14th. All the Hoot, a DEI event, was held on Zoom on the 16th, and a sisterhood was held on the 18th. A formal meeting was held on the 21st, and another DEI bookclub was held on Zoom on the 25th. Two more recruitment workshops were held on the 26th and 27th. A key DEI event and alumni education program were held on the 28th.

April:
Greek Week took place on the 5th, 6th and 7th, and the Greek Week banquet took place on the 9th. Our chapter won the Academic Excellence award at this banquet. A Reading is Fundamental event was held on the 10th. A formal meeting was on the 11th. DEI book club took place on the 15th and 29th. A sisterhood was held on the 16th at the house with a virtual option. Stewart Hour tours for upcoming recruitment primaries took place on the 17th with a virtual option. Department night took place on the 18th, and All the Hoot took place on the 20th. The virtual Senior Banquet, the New Active Retreat, and another session of the Stewart House Tours for primaries took place on the 23rd. Zoom Formal, and a Bid Day for new active members with a virtual option were held on the 24th. The in-person Senior Banquet and an informal meeting was held on the 25th. The last session of Stewart House tours took place on the 30th.

May:
Senior Tea and a formal meeting was held on the 2nd of May, and the last executive board meeting of the semester was held on the 3rd.

August:
Sorority Move-In was August 17th. Work Week for Recruitment was the 18th-23rd. Our chapter had a table at the Involvement Fair on the 23rd. House Tours were on the 24th. The first night of recruitment was the 25th at the Kappa House. The second night of recruitment was the 26th in the Morgan Room. The third night of recruitment was the 27th at the Stewart House. Bid Day was held on the 28th. Pledging of new members and a formal meeting was held at the Kappa House on the 29th. The executive board began meeting at 5:30pm every Monday on the 30th.

September:
Senior Orientation, the first New Member meeting, and an informal meeting were held on September 5th. The Standards Committee began meeting every Tuesday at 6:30pm on the 7th. A sisterhood at the Kappa House was held on the 8th. Expectations of Membership, a new member meeting, and department night were held on the 12th. A new member meeting and a programming night were held on the 19th. Another sisterhood was held on the 23rd at the Kappa House. A luncheon where member’s family members could eat at the Kappa House was held on the 25th. A Kappa Koffee Social Brunch with the Illinois State Kappa Chapter at the Stewart House, a new member meeting, and a formal meeting were held on the 26th. Every member of Greek life attended Title IX training on the 29th, and the New Member Retreat was held on the 30th at the Kappa House.

October:
A new member meeting and the Courage to Commit program were held on the 3rd of October. A sisterhood was held on the 6th, and a pumpkin carving exchange with the Phi Delts was held on the 8th. A new member meeting, the Founder’s Day event, and formal meeting in Dahl Chapel were held on the 10th. Our Health Drive week began on the 18th, and an Officer Interest meeting was held on the 20th. A Halloween Sisterhood at the Kappa House was held on the 21st, and some members of the chapter attended the Order of Omega ceremony on the 23rd. The Return of the Pledge Pin ceremony and formal meeting at the Kappa House were held on the 24th, and Inspiration Period began on the 25th. Ritual Review was held on the 26th, 27th, and 28th. Bloom into Kappa was held on the 27th, and Fireside was held on the 29th. Initiation took place at the Kappa House on the 30th. A senior education program and formal chapter were held on the 31st.

November:
Leadership Applications were due on the 2nd of November, and the Nomination Committee began training. Groovy, 70s semi-formal was held on the 5th. Interviews for executive board positions were held on the 6th and 7th. A Sex-positive program and an informal chapter were held on the 7th. A Kappa Kisses philanthropy event for Active Minds and slate discussion were held on the 9th. Trio-Days events with Pi Phi and Alpha Xi were held on the 10th, 11th, and 12th. The Slate was created and calls were made on the 10th, and the slate was present electronically on the 11th. A cypher-reading sisterhood was also held on the 11th. A movie watching exchange with Alpha Xi was held on the 12th. Elections were held during a formal meeting on the 14th, and joint executive board meetings were held on the 15th and 22nd. A Clothing Drive began on the 29th.

We support WIAR and the Jamison Community Center. Being involved locally is a great way to connect and support our community.

We supported Active Minds by raising money through candy grams, while also supporting mental health through thoughtful messages. For the Kappa Foundation, we are working with a local coffee shop at the end of the semester and raising money through coffee sales.

Spring 2021, our chapter installed a DEI officer under the VP of Member Development. This DEI director has held office hours for any member in the chapter to come and talk about any issues or DEI related topics. This officer held bi-weekly DEI events, such as a book club for the book, “Untamed”, and “All the Hoot” where members could all meet to discuss relevant topics. In order to prepare for recruitment, the DEI director had a presentation about current issues and ways to be more inclusive while recruiting new members. The DEI director met with every new member during their weekly meetings to introduce Kappa’s values and expectations of equality and inclusivity. The social media of our chapter has been very sensitive to current issues in the media, and our VP of External Affairs posts regularly about all of our members.

In the Spring semester of 2021, most events were held virtually on Zoom. If an event could be held safely in person, a virtual option was provided for those who were uncomfortable attending. In terms of Recruitment, the numbers as a whole were much lower than typical years. Policies were always changing as well. Our chapter worked hard to properly wear masks while indoors and to have events outside as much as possible. Wearing masks during date parties made it harder to socialize comfortably. Despite the challenges, our chapter had a successful formal recruitment. Initiation was relatively normal, but the ceremonies were shortened. Again, all members were required to wear mask inside. All new members have successfully been initiated and are now active members.

== Visiting Monmouth Today ==

A trip to Monmouth, Illinois, affords visitors the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the Founders of Kappa Kappa Gamma! The Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation operates [https://wiki.kkg.org/pages/File:Ph-10021.jpg The Stewart House Museum], open to the public for tours and events. The home of [https://wiki.kkg.org/pages/Martha_Louisa_%E2%80%9CLou%E2%80%9D_Stevenson Martha Louisa Stevenson] still stands and Kappa Kappa Gamma placed an [https://wiki.kkg.org/pages/File:StevensonMarker_reduced.jpg historical marker] on the property in 2009. The marker recognizes the home as the location of many early meetings of Alpha Chapter. Another [https://wiki.kkg.org/pages/File:KappaBridge.jpg historical marker] was placed at site of the [https://wiki.kkg.org/pages/File:BridgeNegativePrint.jpg "Kappa Bridge"] where early Fraternity History tells the story of two Kappa Founders meeting to discuss their plans for a Greek letter organization.

The brochure [https://wiki.kkg.org/pages/File:MapCover4.jpg ''Footsteps of the Founders''] is available at The Stewart House and includes a [https://wiki.kkg.org/pages/File:Cemetery_Map.jpg cemetery map] and a [https://wiki.kkg.org/pages/File:MapCemetery.jpg map of town] indicating the former locations of the homes of other Founders. Today only Minnie Stewart's home and Lou Stevenson's home are still standing.

Alpha Deuteron

2022-01-03T15:29:16Z

Epsilon Specialist: /* Highlights of 2020: */

{{Infobox Fraternity
|Name= Alpha Deuteron
|GreekSymbol= A<sup>Δ</sup>
|Image= [[File:IMG 1741 reduced1.jpg|200px]]
|Founded= {{start date and years ago|1870|10|13}}
|College= [https://www.monmouthcollege.edu/ Monmouth College]
|Location= Monmouth, Ill.
|Province= Epsilon South
|Homepage= [https://monmouthcollege.kappa.org/ Alpha Deuteron Homepage]
|Media= [https://wiki.kkg.org/index.php?title=Category:Alpha Media related to Alpha Chapter]}}

<table><tr><td>

'''Monmouth College established in 1853, Monmouth, Illinois'''

'''Founded as Alpha Chapter October 13, 1870; Closed 1884'''

'''44 total initiates (as of 1884 closure)'''

'''Founded as Alpha Deuteron on October 13, 1934'''

'''1,708 initiates (as of June 2018)'''

</td>
</tr></table>

'''Charter members''':[[ Mary Louise “Lou” Bennett]], [[Hannah Jeannette “Jennie” Boyd]], [[Mary “Minnie” Moore Stewart]], [[Anna Elizabeth Willits]], [[Susan Burley Walker]], [[Martha Louisa “Lou” Stevenson]]. The last two were initiated by the first four, but walked into chapel with them on October 13, 1870. Since that is considered the Fraternity’s official founding date, Susan Walker and Louisa Stevenson are also considered Founders.

'''Alpha Deuteron charter members''': Sarah Louise Brownell, Helen Eugenia Christy, Dorothy May Field, Margaret Rhoda Lee, Mary Lucille Mack, Mary Elizabeth McClanahan, Frances Mills, Maxine Ditteau Moore, Dorothy May Murphy, Frances Carolyn Nelson, Margaret Jane Paull, Janet Randles, Martha Randles, Margaret Maxine Rathbun, Ruth Carolyn Swanson, Margaret Andrews Tubbs, Ruth Claire Wagner, Mary Jane Wilson, Emma Gibson Work, Jane Louise Zimmer.

'''Outstanding Alpha Alumnae:'''

'''Grand Chapter Officers:'''
Minnie Stewart, first president of Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity 1870-1872
Alice Pillsbury, president 1872-1874
Frances Shelley, president 1872-1874
Caroline (Carrie) Smith, president 1874-1875

'''Outstanding Alpha Deuteron Alumnae'''

'''Fraternity Officers:'''
Gail Simpson Owen, Director of Personnel 1988-1990, Director of Programs and Education 2014-2016, Fraternity Vice President 2016-2018, Fraternity President 2018-2020;

'''Fraternity Loyalty Award Recipients:'''

'''Alumna Achievement Award Recipients:'''
1974: Lois Winter Lloyd—A founder of North Shore Association for the Retarded, a training center for children and adults; Helen Wagner Willey, 1990, longtime actress who played “Nancy Hughes” on As the World Turns (died 2009)

'''Additional Outstanding Alpha Deuteron Alumnae'''
Rhonda Correll (VanOteghem), Graduate Counselor 1983-1984, PDC 1995-1999;
Sue Campbell (Jones), Graduate Counselor 1969-1970;
Juleen Kelly (Veneziano), Chapter Consultant 1996-1997;
Kristin Whitver (Fouts), Chapter Consultant 2003-2004;
Hilary Hawkinson Stott, Chapter Consultant 2007-2008, Risk Management Content Director 2018-2020;
Janice Camenisch (Keil), Graduate Counselor 1955-1956;
Crystal Straube (Stump), Chapter Consultant 1990-1991, PDC 1996-97;
Gail Simpson Owen, Field Representatives Chairman 1994-95, PDC 1985-88;
Catherine Axline Williams, PDC 1977-81;
Frances Swanson Hobert, PDA 1961-65;
Jane Robb Davis, PDA 1987-89;
Kathryn Alexander, PDA 1987-89;
Leslie James-Cook, PDA 1993-94;
Kory Brown, Traveling Consultant 1994-1995;
Mabel Martin McCoy, PDC 1961-67;
Mary Diffenbaugh Abbott, Province President 1945-57;
Nancy Acheson McGaan, PDA 2006-09, PDC 2001-05;
Sally Ann Ryder, PDA 1957-61;
Ellen Boyd (Salyards), Traveling Consultant 1987-1988;

'''Historical excerpts:'''

“Anna Willits, Minnie Stewart, Jennie Boyd and Louise Bennett!
Founders ye of Kappa Gamma …
Would that you had left more record
of your life in Alpha Chapter …”

(from the report of '''Florence Burton Roth''', Beta Delta--''Michigan'', Historian at the 1916 General Convention, Ithaca, New York)

“Forty years is a long time to remember what did not seem too very important at the time …” ('''Martha Louisa Stevenson Miller''', ''Monmouth'')

“We were just a happy, harmonious group of lively girls with a keen sense of loyalty to Kappa and to each other, with strict regard to the quality of membership and sacredness of our badge … there seemed little to record … as so many of us lived in Monmouth, we clung together and held our meetings for some years after fraternities were banished … the chapter finally became only a memory.” ('''Alice Pillsbury Shelley Resor''', A-''Monmouth'', ''The Key'', October 1929)

In September 1856, Monmouth, a three-year-old academy, opened as a coeducational college with the blessing of the Associate Reformed, later the United Presbyterian Church. Chapters of men’s fraternities Beta Theta Pi and Delta Tau Delta appeared in 1865, and Phi Gamma Delta in 1866. The I.C. Sorosis, founded for women in 1867, had not yet become Pi Beta Phi when Kappa Kappa Gamma was created. '''M. Louise Bennet (Boyd)''' and her future sister-in-law, '''H. Jeannette Boyd''', thought of organizing; considered first limiting membership to girls taking the classical course; but realized how much their choice of members would be narrowed; and “gave up that exclusive idea.”

== 1870 - 1880 ==

In January 1870, Kappa Alpha Theta had been founded in Greencastle, Indiana, at Asbury (later DePauw) University. Baird’s American College Fraternities, 1883, has it that “a proposition to establish a chapter of another fraternity suggested the idea of creating this new one.” But Louise Bennett insisted, “We had not heard of any other Greek-letter fraternity for girls at that time and always considered ourselves the first. … If any girl came from Greencastle … to invite our girls to join Kappa Alpha Theta … I never heard of it.”

This ignorance is reasonable. Between the time “two college girls … held a schoolgirls’ conversation out of which grew the Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity” on that little wooden bridge made famous by a Monmouth College president, and the day when six girls walked into a chapel wearing their new keys, and announced themselves to a college population, which already knew about them, a matter of months have passed. If they had known of any competition they would have been eager to be on with the game—but no, they waited until their badges had been made up by the jeweler. Then they were ready.

The ''Monmouth College Courier'' waited too, and in October 1870, wrote, “The long expected ship hove into sight some days ago … When the crew came ashore … the dignified mien and grace … evinced the residence of authority … they wear a little gold key, sometimes on their foreheads, sometimes on their little blue or red jackets … we have been able to count only six of them .. they are on a voyage of discovery.”

The fact that both Thetas and Kappas announced themselves by marching proudly into chapel means only that chapel was the one sure place to catch the collective eye of the student body. It is recorded that “the Greek-letter boys cheered and stamped … (it was) quite a while before Dr. Wallace (the college president) got them quieted down.”

“We were so excited and proud,” said '''Jennie Boyd''' of the day when the girls appeared wearing their keys. “Everything seemed different!” Even the people, the buildings, the classrooms seemed changed. We had started something all by ourselves!”
Alpha struck the keynote and planned the theme … chose the badge and the name … it seems quite certain that no attempt was made toward anything ritualistic.” (Historian’s report, 1933)

About 1873 the General Assembly of the United Presbyterian Church decided that no college under its jurisdiction should have Greek-letter fraternities.

“Do you think this is going to finfish us?” wrote a fiery Alice Pillsbury. “Do you think we are going to subside? Not by any means! It only puts us to the trouble of putting in our members before they enter college.” Alice Pillsbury was initiated in September 1871; served as Secretary 1874-75; she graduated in 1873. She signed the charters of Delta, Epsilon, Eta, Iota and Theta. She had to copy over the constitution for the new chapters, and she exchanged letters with their corresponding secretaries (“… our correspondence became … quite personal with exchange of photographs …”). Her letters were full of facts and liveliness and in some cases those letters are all that remain to give life to a lost chapter. Her “ … subside? Not by any means!” kept Alpha alive, albeit in rascally fashion, for a few extra years.

Until 1879 or 1880, when fraternities at Monmouth were ordered to disband entirely, pins were concealed, to be “flashed” for trusted friends.

== 1880 - 1890 ==

In 1882, '''Minnie Stewart Nelson Field (then Mrs. Nelson)''' was Alpha delegate to Convention and gave a talk. “It was the desire of the Fraternity and the intention of Mrs. Nelson to have prepared a complete history … but owing to the death of a sister Kappa who had in her possession the earlier chronicles, she was unable to procure the necessary information. (''The Golden Key'', Volume 1, Number 2)

In 1884, a letter from the chapter asked release, and the request was granted. There seemed to be no charter to surrender, and Alpha died. A February 15, 1885, letter from Mrs. Nelson repeated the story of the secretary who took the record book to Kansas and died there. This must have been '''Mittie Merridith Love''' who died in Kansas in the spring of 1882 … and with her the Alpha minutes.

Kappa Historian '''May Whiting Westermann''', Sigma-''Nebraksa'', searching for signs of Alpha members as real people made a pilgrimage to Monmouth, (The Key, April 1931) and, while reading names in the cemetery was greeted by a student who said, “My grandmother, '''Margaret Pogue''', was a member of Alpha Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma here.” Margaret Pogue Ford died November 29, 1915, in Monmouth. Her daughter, '''Mary Jane''', was married to Arthur G. Smith in 1907. Their daughter, '''Margaret Smith''', who spoke to Mrs. Westermann that day, became a member of Alpha Deuteron, and her daughter, '''Mary Hutchinson''', (later Mrs. Federick A. Tucker) is a member of Upsilon Chapter.

“How rich we are in daughters!” (Jeanette Boyd)

Excerpts from ''The Golden Key'', Volume III, Number 3, March 1886:

“The earliest records show that the chief business of our Alpha was to send its characteristic idea into every suitable place, and to make use of every advantageous method that it could originate or find. When faculty opposition to fraternities in general crushed that chapter, Epsilon had grown up in the practice of the same faith. Under it and under Delta the work went on.” (Page 8)

“Do you believe that KKG occupies all places that are suitable to her? Get a list of the colleges in the United States … study them point by point and see if there is not some Kappa material left, which is likely to come our way and should be provided for as a probable contingency.” (Page 10)

“We are in the vanguard of a live idea—the new woman movement …

“These Monmouth girls, our Founders, saw which way the second great procession of the age was tending, and they fell into an efficient place in line … when that to, the great labor question—shall have reached its destination and broken up, then we can quit hearing, telling and planning new things and give ourselves up to plant hedges, dig grottoes, and exchange lotus-eating reminiscences of the time when we were alive; in short, to be highly conservative.

“When we try to think what would be suitable for (the conservative fraternities) to do, the only thing that ever occurs to us is: Buy an elegant monument and go and be a hic jacet …” (Page 11)
--Minetta Taylor, Iota-DePauw, Editor

== '''Alpha Deuteron Chapter''' ==

Alpha Chapter returned as Alpha Deuteron 64 years after Kappa Kappa Gamma was founded at Monmouth College, and 50 years after Alpha officially ceased to exist. It was around 1880 that college authorities had prohibited Greek-letter fraternities, and the Convention of 1884 had granted the sub rosa chapter’s request for release from Fraternity obligations. It was in 1922 that the Monmouth College Senate voted to permit national fraternities to return.

The movement to reestablish Alpha began in 1924 then '''Dorothy Buck Ettl''',''Colorado'', attended a Kappa national Convention in California. She was also a member of Kappa Alpha Sigma, Monmouth local. At the 1928 Convention the group was represented by Orma Innis Smith,Illinois, and four years later '''Myra Tubbs Rickets''',''Northwestern'', when favorable action on reinstatement was taken. That fall, however, Council vetoed the application.

Recognition had been given to the Founders by the establishment of a Monmouth Memorial during the 1930 Convention. The interest from this $2,500 endowment fund was to be used to purchase books of quality in the field of the fine arts for the college library. The bookplate for the books was designed by '''Mary Albright (Giles),''' ''Ohio State''. The bookplates were presented to the college by members of Grand Council during a visit in the fall of 1932, during which they also inspected Kappa Alpha Sigma.

In 1934, the local sorority was permitted to petition, an act approved by the chapters. Throughout the years, in their efforts to win back Alpha Chapter, the local group had the support of Mrs. Ricketts. Before she and her niece, Margaret Tubbs Youngren, a member of Kappa Alpha Sigma, left for Convention in 1934, they had gathered letters from many prominent Kappas, including '''Lou Henry Hoover''',''Stanford'', wife of the former president of the United States, and Josephine Edmonds Young, St. Lawrence. Others such as Albert N. Marquis, publisher of Who’s Who in America, and Francis Shepardson, a leader in Beta Theta Pi, had also sent endorsements. Several members of Kappa Alpha Sigma had close ties with the Founders.

Alpha Chapter was re-established on October 13, 1934. The occasion was planned by the alumnae of Kappa Alpha Sigma, the Fraternity Council and the installing chapter, Epsilon. '''Joyce Snider (Heaton),''' ''Northwestern'', was co-organizer for the new chapter.

Owl candlesticks, designed and made at Monmouth Pottery for many years, were a feature of the Installation. The molds were later destroyed in a fire at the pottery.

All of the actives and 50 alumnae of Kappa Alpha Sigma were initiated as Kappas. A special pledging service was held on October 12 for freshman '''Frances Pattee (Putnam),''' granddaughter of Founder '''Anna Willits Pattee''', and she was initiated the following day with her grandmother’s gold key. In 1970, Mrs. Putnam presented this badge to the Fraternity.

Among the many who sent messages or attended the reinstatement were '''Mabel and Georgie Pillsbury''', early Alphas. Their badges, and that of their sister, Alice Pillsbury Shelly (Reesor), were later left to the chapter. The President of the Monmouth Alumnae Association wears Georgie’s badge, and the other two are framed with the Founders’ pictures, which hang in the chapter room.

Charlotte Barrell Ware wrote from Boston, “I am sending to you today the precious candlesticks … which I wish you to use at the Installation … tomorrow I shall send along the candles to be used from my wedding candles. I want Alpha to have all that we can express of gratitude in her return to head our Fraternity roll.”

'''Mary Louise Bennett Boyd''', the one living original Founder, wrote from Florida, “ … A few of us who are left … are hoping … you will remember the humble little acorn from which the spreading oak has grown. … We shall be happy in again finding ourselves at home side by side with our ancient good comrade I.C. … (now known as) Pi Beta Phi.”

Alice Pillsbury Shelley (Reesor) wrote, “ … No question of finances or fear of fatigue could prevent me from coming, but a recent recurrence of an old nervous trouble would make it unsafe … it is with added regret that as my birthday is October 14, it would be a grand way to celebrate.”

'''Martha Louisa Stevenson Miller''', now also listed as a Founder, was present for all the Installation ceremonies.
In 1935, the portrait of Tade Hartsuff Kuhns, Butler, painted in 1916 by Alpha’s Elizabeth Gowdy Baker, was sent to the Monmouth College Art Gallery. Tade Kuhns had presented this aquarelle to the Fraternity on its 50th anniversary. With the consent of Monmouth College an Alpha Deuteron, it is now in Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity Headquarters in Columbus, Ohio.

In 1959, when Epsilon Province Convention was held in Monmouth, a silver baby cup was presented to the chapter by Alpha Chapter to Minnie Stewart Nelson Fields when her son was born, engraved with the Kappa insignia and the baby’s name. It was displayed in the chapter room in Marhall Hall.

The Kappa room in Marshall Hall, where all sororities are located at Monmouth, was done in 1870 period style, Victorian red draperies, crystal chandeliers, and a Victorian sofa upholstered in blue damask. Many of the accessories were given by friends and members of the Alpha Chapter. Josephine Watt Graham, Monmouth, was the decorator. The outstanding feature in the room is the gold-framed picture of the Founders, tinted on ivory, with their names and the original Pillsbury keys. These pictures were reproduced in color on the cover of the 1970 Centennial issue of ''The Key''.

During the years preceding Kappa’s Centennial celebration, Alpha Deuteron had pledged a sum of money to the Fraternity in honor of and in memory of Myra Tubbs Ricketts.

In April 1970, Fraternity President '''Louise Little Barbeck''' presented, in the name of Kappa Kappa Gamma, an oil painting, “A Winding Road and Cypress Tree, San Vigilio,” by John Singer Sargent, to Monmouth College, as part of the Fraternity Centennial Celebration.

Mabel Martin McCoy was honored by her chapter in 1971, when its senior class dedicated an award to her, in recognition of her service and devotion. The McCoy Cup is presented annually to an outstanding senior in Alpha Deuteron.

==update from 1975==

'''Fall 1970 issue of The Key reads''': "Reproductions of the Founders of Kappa Kappa Gamma were taken from small oil portraits hand painted on ivory. The original set is framed with the names of each founder and an early key belonging to Georgie Pillsbury who was initiated in Alpha Chapter in 1877. The framed portraits were a gift from the Monmouth alumnae to Alpha Chapter."

==Highlights of the 1980s==

The 1987 pledge class created a cross-stitch pattern with Kappa symbols in all four corners. It was presented to the actives at the end of inspiration week. Traveling Consultant Lila Isbell visited the chapter. In 1987, there were 625 students on campus; 151 women in sororities and Alpha Deuteron had 49 actives, 1 pledge. The faculty and administration of Monmouth College as a whole were very supportive of Greek organizations. Chapter goal was “striving for excellence through individual responsibility and shared experiences.” The chapter worked hard to meet this goal.

In 1989 a new rush party was developed, Sail Away with Kappa. One of the parties was a hayrack ride at one or the member’s uncle’s farm. The pledges made wooden Greek figures which were placed on the Stewart House lawn. Each pledge signed her name on the back. The figures were presented to the active chapter at the end of inspiration week. Traveling Consultant Sheri Gosliner visited the chapter. This year there were 635 students on campus, 145 women in sororities and 54 active Kappas plus one associate member. The faculty and staff continued to support the Greek system and were proud of their accomplishments.

'''Philanthropy:'''
The chapter members went to Applegate Nursing Home in Monmouth to sing Christmas Carols.
A dance to benefit UNICEF was held with Zeta Beta Tau. In 1989, the chapter held a really fun philanthropy. It organized a golf tournament at Gibson Woods Golf Course to raise money for the Warren Achievement Center. Even though it rained, everyone had a good time.

==Highlights of the 1990s==
The Minnie Stewart House was officially dedicated in May 1990. Barbara Blair Frazier, Monmouth, was hired as the Stewart House hostess in residence. One of the rush parties was a Roaring 20’s Party where the members wore fancy flapper dresses and gangster suits. Rush was very successful and the chapter pledged 31 women. The pledge project was a carved wooden owl with each pledge’s initials carved into it. Keys were hung at the owl’s feet, one key for each of their hearts. The owl was displayed in the chapter room.

Traveling Consultant Christine Cutter and Alpha Deuteron’s own Helen Wagner Willey visited the chapter. Helen received the Fraternity’s Alumnae Achievement Award in 1990. In She starred in the first play at Monmouth College’s new theater, The Lion in Winter. She was well known for her role as Nancy Hughes on the long-running soap, As the World Turns, 1956-2010. In 1990 there were 632 students attending Monmouth College, 135 were sorority members and Alpha Deuteron had 45 actives. This year the chapter’s goal was “To improve respect for the Fraternity and the individual through Fraternity Education programs and the use of the new committee system.”
New this year, Big/little Sister Week was creative and concluded with a big sis hunt that throughout the entire campus.

In 1991 the chapter pledged 22 women. It was the only sorority to meet quota on Bid Day. The pledges gave the chapter scrapbook titled “Kappa is …..” It included 22 pages, one for each pledge which described what Kappa meant to each of them. Big/Little sister week was fun for the pledges and actives. It ended with each pledge unwinding a mass of string that connected her to her big sister.

Kappa Krush was new this year. The seniors matched each of the actives with a guy of the senior’s choice and they met at the Valentine’s Day Dance.
During senior week the classmen had a secret senior. At the end of the week a banquet was held where the seniors read their wills. This year there were 660 students attending Monmouth College, 147 of the women belonged to sororities and 57 of these women were Kappas. The chapter goal this year was “To improve sisterhood positively through trust, respect and confidentiality.” Each member worked to achieve the goal as did the chapter as a whole. Each week awards were given to those who showed improvement in meeting the goal.

Alpha Deuteron began the 1994 academic year by pledging 30 women. This nearly doubled the size of the chapter. The pledges helped make Homecoming a success. Their float won first place and the chapter joined together to take second place in the Spirit Shout. The chapter excelled in scholarship this year. For the second semester in a row, it had the highest all-Greek and highest all-women’s average. All sorority GPA 3.056, all women GPA 2.907 and all Kappa GPA 3.16.
There were 791 students attending the College, 159 of the women belonged to sororities and 68 of these women were Kappas. This year the chapter goal was “50 percent attendance at non mandatory events.” To achieve this goal, the chapter had a contest between pledges and each of the other classes. An award was given to the class with the best attendance. The chapter also accepted the Challenge to Excellence.

Recruitment in 1995 was a huge success. The chapter filled quota and pledged 27 women. The pledges first helped the chapter to shine during Homecoming when they won the annual Spirit Shout and placed third with the Kappa Blue Hawaii float that boasted Elvis on the top. The pledge project was to paint a new Fraternity crest to be hung outside of The Stewart House.
The chapter goal was to “make an effort to improve sisterhood by supporting members outside of meetings and Kappa events.” Each member was expected to attend two extra-curricular events per month in which Kappas were participating. A master calendar listing these events was created and members signed up in advance. The chapter continued to work to achieve the Fraternity’s Challenge to Excellence.

The chapter maintained its high academic achievement. It had the highest all-Greek average while the pledges had the highest pledge class average as well. All sorority GPA 2.932; All Kappa GPA 3.115. There were 925 students on campus, 176 women in sororities and 72 members of Alpha Deuteron Chapter.

Recruitment 1996 began this year on a high note. The chapter pledged 41 new members which doubled its membership to 80 women. The new members represented the chapter well during Homecoming by placing second in the annual Spirit Shout and third with their exciting float, Kappa Boulevard. The new members built a wooden bench which was placed outside the Stewart House.
Again this year the chapter was recognized with the Fraternity’s Challenge to Excellence Award and received the Standards Award. The chapter continued to do well academically and maintained the highest sorority and all-Greek average. The chapter began holding study tables. The all sorority GPA was 2.995, all women GPA 3.008 and Kappa’s GPA 3.101. This year there were 993 students enrolled at Monmouth. 87 of these students were members of Alpha Deuteron Chapter.
The chapter goal this year was to have 50 per cent attendance at non-mandatory events and 90 percent attendance at all mandatory events. This goal expanded the chapter goal from the previous year in an effort to improve sisterhood by supporting the sisters outside of chapter related events. The goal was for each member to attend two extra-curricular events a month in which Kappas were involved.

During recruitment in 1997, the chapter pledged 21 new members. Their Homecoming float won first place and raised money for the American Heart Association. Scholarship remained a high priority for the chapter in 1997 and once again it had the highest GPA 3.082 on the campus, the all women’s GPA was 3.053 and the campus GPA was 2.945. The chapter received an award Give a Hoot for overall excellence at the 1997 Epsilon Province Meeting. The goal for the chapter was “to strive to improve unity and consideration of others through increased participation in all chapter and campus events.”

'''Philanthropy:'''
During this decade the chapter continued to hold its annual golf tournaments at Gibson Woods Golf Course. Proceeds were given to the Warren Achievement Center.
In 1990 the chapter members wrote letters of support to the troops in the Middle East. It was hoped these letters would boost their morale. In October 1991 the chapter went to a local elementary school to help raise money. The women worked at the school’s carnival.
Additional philanthropies carried out by the chapter were Dollar Days, reading to local elementary school classes, decorating a local nursing home.

In the fall of 1994, Kappas donated money and necessary personal items such as toothpaste and shampoo to a battered women’s shelter. It also participated in Book Week at the Warren County Library. The children there had their favorite book read to them by enthusiastic Kappas. The pledges organized a Breakfast with Santa for Monmouth children. During 1995 the chapter continued book week at the local library and they made a beautiful bulletin board which featured the children with their favorite books.

The new member classes from each sorority faced off in a challenge to collect clothes for the Jamison Center. The pledges sponsored a Christmas Party at the Pinewood Nursing Home and entertained the residents with Christmas Carols. In 1996 the chapter organized the Pizza Roll which brought 50 underprivileged children to the local roller rink. After skating, the children were served pizza.

In 1995, it continued the annual golf tournament with the proceeds going to the Warren Avenue Center, the Kappa Foundation and the Muscular Dystrophy Association. The members continued with book week and organized Jail N’ Bail which benefited the Breast Cancer Research Foundation and participated in Rose McGill’s Holiday Sharing program. This year’s new member class enjoyed their Christmas party which was held at the Pinewood Nursing Home.

1997 began with numerous philanthropic events which demonstrated the strength and dedication of the chapter. The second annual pizza roll with Sigma Phi Epsilon brought smiles to the faces of 50 children from the community. The event included two hours of roller skating followed by pizza.
The chapter held a Teetertotterathon in the spring and made contributions to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and the Kappa Foundation from the funds raised. Alpha also sponsored a Rose McGill Kappa, a blood drive and another successful Jail N’ Bail from which the proceeds were donated to Breast Cancer Research and served as Bell Ringers for the Heart Association during Christmas time.

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

Alpha was ranked first scholastically on campus and with a 3.25 average and was above the all-sorority GPA. In 2005, the chapter had a very successful recruitment and pledged 20 wonderful women. Each of them proved to be an asset to the chapter and many were recently elected to offices as sophomores.

Once again the chapter had the highest GPA on campus among both Greeks and non-Greeks. It received an award for outstanding chapter operations at our Greek Week Banquet.
One thing the chapter wanted to do was plan more exciting social events and to accomplish this our social chairman planned new exchanges and events. One of these exchanges was a decadence night at the Monmouth Soda Works with another sorority, Alpha Xi Delta. There are also many new social events and exchanges planned for the coming year. This year has been amazing and we hope that next year will be even better.

'''Philanthropy:'''
Alpha chapter participated in many successful philanthropies: took part in a mentoring program in one of the local schools. the Relay For Life and many of our members held positions as committee heads and members. the New Members planned a philanthropy called Rent a Kappa which raised $500.

Campus 2005: 1,200 students, All student GPA 2.90, All Greek GPA 3.02
Chapter 2005: 60 members, GPA 3.2

The Monmouth College campus is located one block from The Stewart House, former home of Minnie Stewart, one of the Fraternity Founders. It is a small private Liberal Arts college. In 2006, there were 63 members in the chapter and 19 New Members. The chapter’s meetings are held in Marshall Hall which is the oldest building on campus.

The 2006 archives display was shown in the chapter room and included the following items: Outstanding Achievement In Unity, Loyalty, and Gracious Living, Greek Week 2005, photo album, the Founder's pictures, old board with keys, 2003-2004 Challenge for Excellence, Kappa books, stick candle holder, pledge class 2002 gift, keys and lock in picture frame, class of 2004 gift, owl house, 1870-1913 Kappa Kappa Gamma directory, 3 of the Founder's badges, pledge pin from 1916, 1998-2002 Scholarship Award, pitcher, Outstanding Achievement 2000, and "The Key.”
This was a great year for the Alpha Chapter, not only did the chapter have an amazing recruitment, but it gained 19 wonderful new members. Kappa formal was held in the spring of 2006 and was a great success. In the fall of 2006, Kappa was awarded the Homecoming Spirit Award for having the most spirit on campus. At Convention, Kappa was received two awards. Through the year of 2006 Kappa Kappa Gamma has had great relations with the Greek Life on campus.

Alpha Deuteron Chapter had an excellent 2010. In the spring the chapter received word from the College that Kappa would finally have a home for the sisters to live and gather.
The chapter had excellent fall recruitment where we gained 15 wonderful new members. During homecoming week, Kappa was awarded third place in the homecoming parade and float competition. Also, the chapter participated for the first time in a community event known as, The Great Cardboard Boat Regatta. It gallantly came away with the Titanic award for most dramatic sinking.
Once again, the chapter was recognized for the highest GPA on campus including the highest New Member GPA yet. The chapter had a successful philanthropic endeavor where the sisters bonded together. They created friendship bracelets for children suffering from severe illnesses in the OSF hospital in Peoria. They were given as a Christmas donation.

Monmouth College enacted the first steps toward building houses for all Greek Life members. The three sororities present on campus received individual houses for the first time in the fall of 2010. Also, the school received a Jumbotron, as a gracious donation from an alum, for the football field.

A lovely home was graciously given to Kappa Kappa Gamma by Monmouth College in the fall of 2010. It has been a wonderful opportunity for the chapter to create a true home for the actives as well as the alumnae.

The opportunity for the members to now come together in one area and hold various sisterhoods, activities and chapter meetings in the house has been a wonderful bonding experience. A higher form of chapter unity is consistently a sought after goal. Through holding monthly key sisterhoods and having a home to enjoy our sisters in has made such the goal more feasible. Likewise, the chapter must better learn how to utilize Kappa resources, such as the website.

'''Honoring Kappa’s Origins'''

The earliest days of Kappa were memorialized at Monmouth College in 2010 with the dedication of a marker near the site of the rustic wooden bridge where a few young women spoke of forming a secret society of their own. Another marker was placed at the home of Kappa Founder Martha Louisa “Lou” Stevenson –the site of Kappa’s first business meeting, when the golden key was chosen as the official badge. Both markers were funded by a grant from the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation’s Museums Committee.

Fraternity President Denise Rugani, UC Davis, and Alpha Chapter President Lindsay Trafton, Monmouth, unveiled the historic marker during a weekend celebration coinciding with the date of the college’s founding in 1853. Denise said, “For me to be part of the dedication of the markers at Monmouth College was truly one of the most special moments of my time as Fraternity President. These markers are a reminder to all of the power of the women’s movement in America. They keep the message of our Founders alive. From a time when few women were admitted to college, these women not only attended college but also had the dream of creating a women’s organization equal to that of the men’s fraternal organizations. Today it is our moral imperative to keep their vision alive and pass it on to future generations.”

It was on a pedestrian trestle bridge over a stream that ran though the Monmouth College campus where Kappa Founders met to pursue their dream of a secret Greek society similar to those of the male students. The marker is located at the approximate midpoint of the block-long bridge, which stood until the early 20th century when the stream was diverted underground.

Among Fraternity officers present were Kay Smith Larson, Washington, Fraternity Historian and former Fraternity President. Kay recalled how the Monmouth College policy of admitting women on an equal footing with men since its earliest days helped lay the groundwork for the founding of the first national secret collegiate society for women, Pi Beta Phi, at Monmouth in 1867, followed by Kappa just three years later.

Monmouth College Trustees and Alpha Chapter alumnae Gail Simpson Owen and Barbara Watt Johnson attended the dedication and Gail reflected on the meaning of the bridge. She said, “The metaphor of a bridge is fitting as we build bridges to take us from one place to another; from the known to the unknown, an arduous journey made easier with a bridge, a connection. For me, the Kappa Bridge spanned the distance from my family 5,000 miles away to my new sisters and friends. I recognize that it is our turn to build the next bridge for those who come after us.”

==Highlights of 2011==

This calendar year for Kappa Kappa Gamma has been a tremendous year. In fall recruitment 2011 we were blessed with 21 beautiful new babies. Pledge class 2011 has brought so many new things to our chapter. In accordance with that, our chapter also received the highest cumulative GPA on campus. We all have been working hard to keep attaining this reward and we are all very proud of our sisters.

During Homecoming this year, our chapter participated in the Spirit Shout dance and we received second place. Homecoming week really brought our chapter together. The 21 babies worked together and made a homecoming float that was so beautiful! The spring 2011 pledge class worked on a banner that also came out terrific.As far as philanthropies go, our chapter started a program with the Roseville Retirement Home. About two times a week, a group of Kappas go to the home and help out in any way we can. Another thing our chapter participated in last semester was the Special Olympics. A large group of us went to the local bowling alley and helped the participants and also helped make sure everything was running smoothly.

'''Campus:''' At Monmouth College we are currently in the process of getting a new science and business building. The progress seems to be right on track, and I know everyone is excited to see the final result.

'''Chapter:''' We moved our meetings from the Kappa house to Marshall Hall. At Marshall Hall we have a greater amount of space to make the meetings run smoothly.

Our chapter is currently going through a stage where we seem to be divided. In the beginning of the year our sisterhood was outstanding, but right now we are kind of in a slump. We are trying to become one again by discussing what our chapter values are and seeing how we can all share our great love for Kappa together again. We are also planning more sisterhoods to bring us together.

==Highlights of 2012==

For the previous calendar year we did not participate in many philanthropy events but we did participate in Relay for Life with College Against Cancer. We held a parents breakfast which we collaborated with our academics banquet. While celebrating Founder's Day we had the privileged of also hosting the pinning ceremony. We yet again achieved the highest Greek GPA for the fall semester. We had many goals for this year, while some of them we are still defeating, some of them we overcame. Our chapter goals were to increase attendance at events, better communication skills, and also a stronger sisterhood. We have developed a stronger sisterhood but still need work on the attendance of events.

The two major changes to our campus this past year are the building of our new science building and the new 4-4 plan. The building started last year but is still currently under construction. The 4-4 plan is a change that effected all students at the school negatively or positively. The overall nature of our chapter is headed in the right direction. For the new year we have started off on the right foot. We are currently working on our communication and interpersonal skills which has shown improvement. We are working on our attendance at events which has increased. We have reached out to the community and got our name out there. We have strengthened our sisterhood. We are improving the nature of our chapter each and everyday.

== Highlights of 2013==

In the previous calendar year, in the spring semester we gained 6 new members through informal recruitment. We hosted our first annual Spaghetti Dinner at the local church in Monmouth for our first semester philanthropy event. We raised $550 which we donated to the Children’s Neuroblastoma Cancer Foundation. We also participated in our Journal Buddies program where we wrote letters back and forth with local elementary schools students and visited them at the end of first semester. We hosted “Love and Loyal-tea” which was held at the Stewart House. Members of the Knox Chapter attended as well as a guest speaker that spoke about professionalism. Our chapter also had a ritual review history program and recruitment workshops to help keep our members up to date.

As far as our grades, we maintained the highest GPA of all Greek Life at Monmouth College. We set goals to improve our adviser and officer relations as well as increase the strength in the leadership roles of our officers. To reach that our officers watched their webinars and worked together to help each other as a tighter unit. In the fall semester, we gained 14 new members through formal recruitment as well as two more COBs. We continued our Journal Buddy program and for our philanthropy event we hosted a “Kappa Karnival” on our campus. It was not as successful as we had hoped but it was a learning experience. We raised $300, which was donated to put together care packages to send to U.S. troops.

To reach our ongoing goal from the previous semester about our officers, he held three separate officer-training workshops. Two of the workshops were with all of the officers and advisers. The other workshop was a meeting between the incoming and outgoing officers. We also set a goal to improve on turning documents in on time. Although we improved a bit on this, we still have progress to make in getting everything in on time. As far as helping with world/local events we did this on three separate occasions. Two of these were due to unfortunate natural disasters. One of the members of our school’s staff was victim to a house fire.

We donated our slightly used/new clothes and shoes as well as toiletries to her and her family. Also, when there was the tornado disaster in Washington, Il, we sent cards and donated money to Red Cross to help in relief. For world events, we put together Christmas packages which one of our members sent out to her brother and his fellow troop members in the Army. Overall, we could have been more active in philanthropy and special events, but besides that we had a pretty successful semester and we definitely improved on our goal to strengthen officer positions, although there will always be room for improvement.

There was a new “Fraternity” added to campus in the Fall of 2013. This added an additional amount of Greeks to campus and another Greek organization. Now the total number of Greek organizations is at 9. The new building called the Center for Science and Business was completed and classes began holding in there. The overall nature of our chapter, technically, is stronger than in the past. In 2013, we began holding members more accountable for their actions through the Standards Committee. One thing we hope to improve on is turning documents in on time; this includes EPFs, Driver’s Forms, Round Robins and individual officer reports. Also, the chapter wants to improve on sisterhood and morale by holding more sisterhoods and unity bonding sessions.

== Highlights of 2014==

In the spring our chapter received six new members. We held the annual spaghetti dinner in February. Members from our organization made and served food for the community and raised over one thousand dollars for the Jameison center in Monmouth, IL. We also donated books to the Jameison center children in early November. As a chapter we hosted "Love and Loyal-tea" at the Stewart house with the Knox Kappa chapter. In May, around graduation we held a senior alumni ceremony. At this ceremony we acknowledged and gave thanks to all of our seniors members. In August we gained twenty-six new members through formal recruitment. In October we held initiation for our twenty-six new members. Our chapter also participated in a Journal Buddies program local United Way elementary school. This activity involved girls writing back and forth on a weekly basis with the students of the elementary school. At the end of the ten week program a day was arranged to meet with their journal buddies and personally get to know one another. This is where the girls get to meet their buddies, play games, read books, and craft with them. We also ran a pancake breakfast partnering with local AppleBees in late November. We sold the maximum number of tickets and made close to one thousand dollars for an organization called Stella's Voice (Monmouth College Human Trafficking organization). Along with our two main philanthropy events, many members logged community service hours on their own. We had four members participate in a week long service project called Alternative Spring Break. They partnered with Habitat for Humanity and each logged 50 hours of consistent hard labor for the week. We also celebrated Founders Day where we visited and sang at the burial sites of Minnie Stewart, Anna Willits, and Susan Walker. During our homecoming week we won awards for our banner and spirit shout chant. At Province we won an honorable mention award, and at our annual Greek Week Banquet our Advisor Polly Timmerman won Chapter Advisor of the year. Many of our members were also acknowledged for making it onto the Dean's list and for being in multiple Greek honor programs such as; Alpha Lambda Delta, Blue Key, and Order of Omega. In relation to academics, we were first overall in GPA of our spring semester, and in the fall we were third place overall. Our goal is to improve our GPA and get first overall next semester. We will do this by holding each other accountable for our studying and tracking hours on a Google Docs system. Along with this we will have new study files to help our members succeed academically, and we have installed a group document to log all of our weekly study hours. To improve communication, which has been another weakness in our chapter, we have held two leadership trainings for incoming officers, as well as triplet meetings that involve advisors. This way we can insure the new officers are prepared for their position and have the knowledge they need to excel. We are also planning multiple programs about how to strengthen communication and how different personalities communicate in different ways. In relation to local crises, a member of Kappa was victim to a house fire. We donated any clothes or household items we could to that member and her family. Overall our chapter had a successful year and the goals we have set for our chapter will only help us improve further.

We are a heavily involved, studious, and welcoming chapter. Majority of our members are involved in multiple organizations, clubs, and sports teams. Many students on campus know Kappas for their involvement and campus participation. Our campus was given a new College President. He has personally reached out to campus organizations and always asks/participates in some of our activities. He was also involved in our Homecoming activities. This past year we have redecorated the interior of our house with freshly painted walls and new living room furniture. This redecoration also includes a new study room available to all members, providing them with a quiet place to study. We have provided all members with an equal opportunity to hold in their possession a key to our house. This would allow them twenty-four access to a quiet and secluded study room. In our study room we also have a printer that is free to every member's use. Chapter council is also requiring a communication/leadership seminar unlike previous years. Our chapter overall is becoming more responsible, such as with paying for dues on time and turning in documents on time. Another sorority on campus, Pi Beta Phi was approved for new housing, and will begin construction Spring 2015. Next year we will have the smallest and oldest house out of all sororities at Monmouth College.

We hold meetings in Marshall Hall on Sundays, it is a college owned facility. For Chapter Council all meeting are held in the common room at our Kappa House. We have a house where members have the opportunity to live together, this house is college owned. A total of seven members can live in the house at one time. This is the only house in our chapter's history.

== Highlights of 2015==

There have been many changes and improvements in Alpha chapter this year. In the spring our chapter received three new members. In February we held our annual spaghetti dinner, raising $1,800 for the Jamieson Center, which is a local community center in town. We also donated books to the Jamieson Center children in early December. In October our chapter made over 120 trick-or-treat bags for the Jamieson Center as well. Alpha chapter participated in Relay for Life and raised over $2,000 for the cause making us the largest donation by any team, our contribution made up the majority of the funds for the event. Our chapter also organized a Reading is Key event at our local library. Our Reading is Key event was Curious George themed, each child received a book, and local firemen came and read to the children to get the community involved in our efforts to promote literacy. Alpha chapter also participated in a stuffed animal drive, and collected over 75 stuffed animals to donate for the event.

In May, around graduation we held a senior alumni ceremony. At this ceremony we acknowledged and gave thanks to all of our seniors members. We also held a senior brunch in May where our chapter expressed appreciation for our seniors through speeches and gifts. We also held an alumna orientation for our seniors as the year came to an end. In August we gained twenty-two new members through formal recruitment. In October we held initiation for our twenty-two new members. In September we held our annual Pancake Breakfast event, raising $1,016 for Reading is Fundamental and $100 of the funds was donated to the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation. Our chapter also participated in a Journal Buddies program with the local United Way elementary school. This activity involved girls writing back and forth on a weekly basis with the students of the elementary school. At the end of the ten week program a day was arranged to meet with their journal buddies and personally get to know one another. This is where the girls get to meet their buddies, play games, read books, and craft with them. Alpha chapter participated in a program called Adopt-A-Classroom. Through this program, Alpha chapter financially adopted a classroom through Charleston Hope, which will supply inner-city kids in schools with Christmas gifts. Along with our major philanthropy events, many members logged community service hours on their own.

In October our chapter celebrated Founder’s Day, where we visited and sang at the burial sites of Minnie Stewart, Anna Willits, and Susan Walker. We also hosted a Founder’s Day Banquet, in which the Eta Kappa chapter of Knox College and many Kappa alumni attended. Events such as our Founder’s Day Banquet have helped our chapter maintain close relationships with our alum and local chapters, which has always been a goal we strive to achieve. During our homecoming week, we won first overall out of all the organizations on campus. Through an awards banquet on our campus Kappa was acknowledged for many awards such as: third place in academic programming, honorable mention in campus involvement, honorable mention in community service/civic engagement, first place emerging female leader, first place advisor of the year, first place outstanding chapter program- for our pancake breakfast. Many of our members were also acknowledged for making it onto the Dean's list and for being in multiple Greek honor programs such as; Alpha Lambda Delta, Blue Key, and Order of Omega.

In relation to academics, our chapter has been ranked third in overall sorority GPA. Our academics have been a challenging area for our chapter because we strive to place first overall in GPA and help all of our members succeed academically. Our chapter has implemented study files to help our members improve. Through the application of the new GIN system our members will also be held accountable for their academics through logging study hours. Not only are members expected to be accountable through academics, we also have made efforts to improve overall accountability. A way we have dedicated time to improving accountability is through “accountability buddies”, where each member has a partner that they encourage to attend events and keep each other responsible. Another effort our chapter has made to increase accountability has been through committee meetings. By getting all members more involved in Kappa events and fundamentals, this will increase all members’ involvement and commitment to the chapter. To improve communication, which has been another weakness in our chapter, we have held two leadership trainings for incoming officers, as well as triplet meetings that involve advisors. Each officer has their own advisor, which has helped with communication because each officer knows who they should be in contact with for questions or concerns specifically. Overall our chapter had a successful year and the goals we have set for our chapter will only help us improve further.

Alpha chapter excels in the area of campus and community involvement. Not only have we donated to Reading is Fundamental and the Kappa Kappa Gamma foundation, but we focus heavily on donating to the community and representing Kappa in a philanthropic way around our community and campus. The majority of our members are involved in other organizations and athletic teams, as well as honors societies. This past year we have redecorated the interior of our house with freshly painted walls and new living room furniture. This redecoration also includes a new study room available to all members, providing them with a quiet place to study. We have provided all members with an equal opportunity to hold in their possession a key to our house. This would allow them twenty-four access to a quiet and secluded study room. In our study room we also have a printer that is free to every member's use. Chapter council is also requiring a communication/leadership seminar unlike previous years. Another change our chapter has seen is the recommendation of service hours, which has not been implemented in the past. Our chapter now encourages 5 service hours per semester. Our chapter overall is becoming more responsible, such as with paying for dues on time and turning in documents on time. Another sorority on campus, Pi Beta Phi has continued construction on their new house. Our chapter has continued to work towards achieving new housing.

Chapter Philanthropy:

What organization(s) has your chapter historically/traditionally raised money for, or donated hours to, in your community?

Our chapter frequently donates to the Jamieson Center in our town. The Jamieson Center is a non-profit organization primarily serving residents of Warren County. Their programs are designed to increase food security and help people with essential services.

Why did your chapter choose this organization(s) to support?

This organization directly affects the residents in Monmouth’s community and our chapter finds our commitment to this organization very important. Seeing the impact of our contributions to a local organization is extremely gratifying for our chapter, and it also gives Kappa a good name in Monmouth’s community.

== Highlights of 2016 ==

2016 has been a very successful year for our chapter. Many girls received scholarships from the foundation and Monmouth College which helped them flourish in their studies. As a chapter Kappa Kappa Gamma won Greek Week in the Spring. With Greek Week we won Chapter Education and Programming, Involvement and Leadership Education, along with honorable mention for Academic Accountability, Community Service, and Philanthropy. We won the Spirit Shout competition in the Fall for our college’s homecoming. Through convention we won the standards award. We also received honorable mention in Panhellenic relations, advisory board relations, and heritage award. We celebrated founders day, and even started a possible new tradition of recreating what our 6 founders did in 1870 and walked through Dahl Chapel with keys in our hair. We’ve had mom and dad weekends which families and girls seems to love and enjoy greatly. We had Formal in the spring which was Great Gatsby themed, and semi-formal in the fall which was “You Are What You Netflix” themed, both were of great success.

Also wanting our chapter to be a great success we came up with many chapter goals which include improve relationship between the Standards Committee and General Members, improve accountability through the use of fact based and unbiased processes (example: Chapter upholding our fraternity standards), increase overall chapter GPA, provide better communication regarding finances to all members, and increase knowledge of Fraternity History. Kappa has stayed involved within Greek life and many girls have attended other philanthropic events along with working hard at our own. In the Spring Kappa's Spaghetti Dinner event raised $2,300. $600 was donated back to the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation and $1,700 was donated to the Jameson Center. Then in September we held the Pancake Breakfast. This event raised $1,070. $400 went to expenses (venue and food), $150 was donated back to the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation, and $520 was donated back to the Jameson Center. Many Kappas here our tutors, have been electoral judges, and volunteer their time within the community and libraries and animal shelters.

On campus our chapter has received a new home and we are graciously waiting to move in. Pi Beta Phi also received a new chapter home in the spring. Altogether our chapter has been working very hard to be the best that we can be and do the best with which we do. Friendship truly is our binding tie, and we are a close kit group that is supportive and cherishing of one another. This year with the presidential election, campus itself had a lot of tension but we as a group did not that effect our relationships with one another. Along with our new home we also received some new members. In the Fall of formal recruitment we gained 11 new members, and with continuous open bidding a week later gained 4 more. After initiation took place on October 22, some weeks later we held another COB event where we gained another two new members who eagerly await to get settled in with our chapter.

Our chapter frequently raises money for RIF, the Jamison Center, and Safe Harbor. This year we actually added Safe Harbor on where we donate funds and supplies, and put in hours helping the organization in many other ways in which we can. RIF being our philanthropy we’re happy to do things for. We also do things for the Jamison Center to help families and children in need in our community by donating food, books, and money. Safe Harbor is an organization that hits close to home for a lot of girls. So to help women in need we donate money, books, and clothes to this organization as well as our time.

Currently, we meet in our new chapter home in the living room. Prior to this, we met in an auditorium in an academic building. It's a great privilege that we have received a new home and are utilizing the space as much as we can since we have not moved in yet. We have sisterhoods, open houses, chapter, and exchanges. We await to move in patiently and are very excited for the opportunity.

==Highlights of 2017==
This has been a very busy year for Alpha Chapter. This year’s Greek Week was also an exciting and successful presentation of our chapter to the rest of campus. We placed second overall and won several awards including Outstanding chapter Program; Spheres of Influence, Academic Achievement, Excellence in Chapter Management and an Honorable Mention in the areas of Community Service, Philanthropy, Membership, Recruitment and Public Relations. Alpha Chapter also achieved the highest Spring GPA of 2017 amongst the other sororities on campus. We can now say that we have moved into our beautiful new house. We held a House Dedication on April 28. Many alumni and Beth Black attended the event. There is room currently for seven women to stay in the house. We still have Chapter and other events in the “Sisterhood Living Room”. This past Founders Day Celebration we went as a chapter to visit the graves of some of our founders. We then continued our new tradition of walking through Dahl Chapel. This year the chapter opted to have mom and dad weekends as one event called Family Weekend, that was held during Monmouth’s own Family Weekend. There were goodie bags to make and families could go and watch the football game together. Formal was themed “Under the Sea” and was a fun time for everyone. This year we did not have a traditional semi-formal. We instead had a “Fall Event” named "Falling in Love With Kappa", at one of the active’s farmhouse. There were s’mores, hayrides, crafts and games to play. This year for philanthropy we did our traditional spaghetti dinner and raised almost $1000 for Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation, as well as Reading is Fundamental. We were unable to hold our regular RIF event, so all of the books we collected this year were donated to a senior education major’s new library. We decided to donate the extra food to the Jamieson Center here in Monmouth. This October we teamed up with the Kappa chapter located at Knox College and had a Kappa Kolor Run. This event raised $500 dollars and the proceeds were donated to the Rose McGill Aid Fund. During recruitment this year, the chapter and potential new members created adoption bags for the Warren County Animal Rescue. The chapter is also reaching out to the community through Journal Buddies. Journal Buddies are through a Kappa that is student teaching. She pairs an active with a child and the class and they write letters to each other.

As for other awards, this Homecoming a Kappa alum was inducted into the Order of Omega Hall of Fame. The Academic Excellence Committee had a wonderful Academic Banquet and awarded beautiful owl pins to members that were named on the Dean’s List. Regarding academics, the chapter also won the fraternity’s Study Hour Challenge this past February. We had a pizza party to celebrate. The Risk Chairman put on some great programs this year. Two important ones were Self-Defense and CPR recertification. We still are striving for better relationship between the Standards Committee and the general members. Another goal for our chapter is to increase the number girls that pay their dues on time. This past semester we have had two lovely Leadership Consultants come and help us find ways to improve our chapter. This year’s Bystander Intervention was a new speaker and taught the chapter and campus new ways to help improve the safety of campus. The Alcohol Skills Training program this year was interesting and was interactive enough to keep our interest.

==Highlights of 2018==
Over the last year we have grown as a chapter. Not only did we take in three new members during the spring, they were able to join us in the philanthropy event. For that event we raised money for Reading is Fundamental by selling grilled cheese to the people in Monmouth. We also had a wonderful Formal which was Sapphire ball theme. In the fall we took in 17 wonderful new members and they were able to join the second Philanthropy even of the year which is we donated books to a local school and read to the children in the name of our Reading is Fundamental. This fall semester we were able to bring back duo days with Pi Beta Phi this is an event where we spilt the money raise in half and donate it toward each of our philanthropy. For Founder’s Day we invited the Knox Chapter to come and visit the graves and Stewart House and they also partook in ritual with us. We had risk event in the fall which we invited other Greek organization for around campus to. Recently, we had our Semi Formal which was Come On Barbie let’s Date Party theme. At the end of the year we will be partaking in our leadership day event. Our chapter goal is to have everyone accountable to attend events. We have become closer as a chapter and are able to freely express ourselves to be the best we can be.

The campus had about 250 new incoming students with only about 50 girls going through the recruitment processes. As a chapter we took in 17 new members who are extremely strong leaders and stand for the core values as a chapter. Our chapter philanthropy is Reading is Fundamental. We also support Western Illinois Humane Society.
It is an organization that hits close to home for many of us. They are a nonprofit organization that finds homes for several types of animals. Members of our chapter volunteer hours to play with the animals and socialize them.

For informal meetings we as a chapter meet in the Center of Science and Business in the auditorium which is room 100. And for formal meetings with meet at the Kappa house in the informal living room. This fall semester we had the privilege of accepting 17 lovely new members to our chapter. On this past bid day in August, the chapter was surprised by the attendance of both Gail Owen and Beth Black to help us celebrate the special day. Initiation was held on October 28th and the chapter now has 56 active members. After Initiation this year we were treated to a wonderful brunch made for us by several volunteer alumnae. For this year’s Homecoming, the theme was Monmouth Traditions. The chapter had lots of fun at the activities planned for the week such as; trivia night, a boat regatta, and the spirit shout and dance. Our float in the parade this year had alumnae on board and won first place. We are ending the year strong and are excited for our new Chapter Council, our new Panhellenic President and next semester!

==Highlights of 2019==

Alpha Chapter had a very busy year in 2019! Classes resumed for Monmouth College on January 14th. Leadership day was held on the 19th for all new officers, and we started the new pilot structure. We had a fun sisterhood and Spring Recruitment began as well. This February was not as busy as usual. We celebrated Inspirational Person’s Day on the 9th with a special person in our lives. On Valentine’s Day, we had a fun sisterhood and the Kappa Krush philanthropy which raised $22 for the Jamieson Center in Monmouth. We hosted a Leadership Consultant from February 24th through March 1st. Spring Break for the college began on the 1st and continued until the 10th. Greek Week began on the 17th and went through the 22nd. A self-defense class sisterhood was held on March 25th. It was fun and incredibly useful! Formal was on March 30th and the theme was Light up the Night. The new members had their New Member retreat on April 5th and Inspiration Period began the next week after the Return of the Pledge pin. They were formally initiated on April 13th. Seniors were celebrated during Senior Week by Senior Slideshow, Bloom into Alumni and the senior sisterhood. The whole chapter celebrated and wished the seniors luck at the Senior Banquet on April 28th. In May, the day before finals began, the VP of Internal Affairs, Angie, held an all day sisterhood study session with doughnuts. Graduation was on May 12th and seven of our sisters walked across the stage. The Fall semester began on August 14th for us, with Greek Life move in and the first day of Work Week. The chapter was present at the annual Involvement Fair and had lots of fun and girls interested by the end of the night! There were three sisterhoods that were focused on team bonding and getting to know their sisters better. Fall Recruitment began on August 20th and Bid Day was on the 24th. This Bid Day we had fourteen lovely ladies run to meet us outside of Wallace Hall. The Bid Day party theme this year was That 70s Show where we danced, tie-dyed and took pictures until our hearts content. Later that evening, we had a candle pass with Alpha Xi Delta and Pi Beta Phi honoring all our new members and our seniors. Formal pledging followed on the 25th and 26th. September began with New Member Meetings and Senior Orientation. On the 14th, Kappa held the Kappa Kickball Event to raise money for the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation. $55 was raised for the Foundation. Family Weekend for the college and Kappa was the 27th through the 29th, with a football game and the Academic Banquet on Sunday. On the first Friday in October, the new members had their New Member retreat. On Sunday the 6th, we celebrated Founder’s Day be traveling to the graves of three of our founders and singing to them followed by the candle ceremony and chapter. Fall Break began on the 9th and several members returned early on the 13th to meet the Minnie Stewart Van for the 150th kickoff at the Stewart House. It was an amazing experience to be a part of and Alpha Chapter is grateful for the opportunity! Homecoming was on the 18th and 19th with Kappa coming in 2nd for the Spirit Shout Dance. Sunday the 20th was Return of the Pledge Pin and the beginning of the Inspiration Period. New members became new actives on the 26th and after Initiation was over we had an amazing breakfast thanks to the Alumni. On the 27th, the new actives attended a new member retreat for all new Greek Life on campus. There was a Halloween exchange with Sigma Phi Epsilon where we watched scary movies. Alpha Chapter had the privilege to experience the leadTODAY program offered by Headquarters on November 2nd. We learned a lot and are excited to try all the new ideas we were given! The Nominating Committee was selection and the election process began. On November 7th and 8th, we volunteered at local schools to be reading buddies for the day and gift a child with a book of their very own. Semi-Formal was on the 9th and the theme was Vines and memes; everyone had a good laugh. On the 13th we had a trivia night exchange with Phi Delta Theta and the dip sisterhood/exchange with Alpha Tau Omega on the 14th. The slate was presented on the 14th as well and on Sunday the 17th elections were held. Duo Days was on the 20th and the 21st; we read Dr. Seuss books to raise money and had a spa day sisterhood. Officer Installations were on the 24th and we are excited for all of our new officers! A COB event was held on the 25th and was very successful. On Reading Day, the day before finals begins, there will be a sisterhood study group and a yoga class.

==Highlights of 2020:==

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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!"Summarize the previous calendar year, scholarships, group honors/awards, Convention awards, traditions, special events, philanthropic involvement, chapter goals, challenges and how they were overcome, and world/local events the chapter participated in or helped with (e.g., presidential campaigns, natural disasters, etc.).

2020 was a unique year that created challenges to normal chapter functions. However, the members of Kappa Kappa Gamma Alpha chapter adapted through innovative sisterhoods, a virtual recruitment, and a virtual initiation shared with Iota and Theta Alpha chapters.

The first chapter of the year was held on January 19th. A Tik-Tok sisterhood was held on January 29th, where sisters made fun videos together at the Kappa house. On Super-bowl Sunday, house girls invited sisters over and made lots of different tailgating foods to celebrate. On February 7th, there was a sisterhood with the Eta chapter at the Stewart house where members made DIY scrunchies. A Galentine’s Day Sisterhood was held on Thursday, February 13th. Sisters made cute Valentine’s Day cards, decorated and painted picture frames, ate snacks, and took cute and goofy pictures in a photo area. Composites were taken on Wednesday, February 19th. The New Member Retreat was February 21st.The chapter had an exchange with Phi Delta on February 23rd, where members sang Karaoke. Inspiration week started Sunday, February 23rd and initiation was held on the 29th where one new member was initiated. Members left for Spring Break on March 6th and were not allowed to return due to Covid-19. A mother/daughter tea party event was scheduled for March 21st and was canceled. A Reading is Key philanthropy event “Grilled Cheese with KKGs” on Sunday, March 22nd was also canceled. Alpha chapter had been paired with ZBT for Greek Week activities but was unable to participate due to Covid. Formal theme was the Roaring 20s and was scheduled for April 18th but was canceled due to Covid. Keynoted chapter minuets were sent to members during the lockdown the first Sundays of April and May to keep members engaged and aware of chapter activities. There were three optional Zoom meetings for members to attend if they needed to reach out. There was a virtual sisterhood, where members played an online card game. Due to the fast change of plans Covid created, many things had to be altered in order to make seniors feel as though they were not forgotten. Our VP of Member Development tried to do as much as possibly for them given that we were unable to hold the Senior Banquet or most of the Senior Week Activities. To make up for what they lost, people in the chapter wrote notes or letters to a senior or seniors of their choice and then those were emailed to them during Senior Week. Our chapter was able to order them all bouquets of flowers and had them sent to their home address for them to receive during Senior Week. The seniors all received their gifts from the chapter at their homes. Our chapter still did a Senior Slideshow, and we were able to watch it together on a Zoom call. There was a Zoom study session hosted for finals.

Some sisters returned to campus on August 13th, while some sisters remained virtual for the semester. Work week occurred virtually and included a DEI presentation by the college’s Intercultural Life Director. The theme for recruitment was Falling in Love with Kappa. Recruitment was moved online the night before it began. However, our incredible exec board was able to make the arrangements necessary to move to virtual recruitment, marking our chapter’s first ever online recruitment process. We met a lot of great PNMs and ended up with 11 perfect new members who are great additions to the chapter! We look forward to seeing where their Kappa journey takes them. Bid day was on August 22nd and pledging occurred on August 23rd, on the tennis court outside. The chapter has conducted most business virtually and any in-person activities were socially distanced and in compliance with state and federal guidelines. The chapter has worked extremely hard this year to improve our diversity, equity, and inclusion. This semester, we decided to push the idea of DEI more into our chapter in hopes to expand our knowledge on the topics and learn from each other. We held a few programs that involved the topic of DEI and we also started a new chapter segment called "All the Hoot." We placed this segment in the VP of Member Development section of our chapter. This segment was started to allow sisters to talk about popular issues in the news, issues that are important to them, hard to talk about issues, etc. We wanted to provide a safe place for discussion of these important topics so we could evolve as a chapter. Our goal was to be respectful of everyone's opinions, be willing to learn, be open and honest, and to make our bond stronger. This segment has been very interesting and beneficial to our chapter thus far and we hope to continue it. We know that we still have a lot of work to do as individuals and as a chapter to continue to learn and grow in the field of DEI. We have elected a DEI Director to our exec board to continue to promote our chapter’s growth. In an effort to promote mental health awareness and inclusivity, our chapter hosted Behind Happy Faces on November 21st.

The slate was released November 12th, and elections were held on November 15th. Officer installations were November 22nd.
Campus overall has a very politically polarized and charged atmosphere. Between COVID-19 restrictions, rising cases, the recent presidential election, and overall division amongst Americans have left Monmouth a very polarized place. Our chapter is not excluded from this division, and we have recently faced division amongst members and issues with being called out for being racist by non-members on campus. These issues have left us a very divided chapter. "

We chose Western Illinois Animal Rescue as our philanthropy, because it requires a lot of volunteer work and donations to keep it going. We really like helping out at WIAR because we enjoying working with the staff and supporting all the animals there.

We did not have a specific Founders Day ceremony or 150th Anniversary celebration due to COVID restrictions. "

==Highlighs of 2021==

January:
Classes resumed on the 25th of January. Executive Board meetings were held every Monday at 5:30pm, and the Standards Committee met every Tuesday at 6:30pm on Zoom. A formal meeting was held on the 31st on Zoom,

February:
Zoom Leadership Day/Officer Transitioning took place on February 7th. Kappa Cocoa was held on the 11th. An informal meeting was held on the 14th, and two MLK workshops were held on the 18th. Two ritual reviews and a formal chapter were held on the 21st. A Sisterhood where sisters could play Among Us and another MLK Workshop was held on Zoom on the 25th. A Senior Education program and programming night were held on the 28th.

March:
Recruitment Workshops were held on the 5th and 6th of March at the house. A department night was held on Zoom on the 7th. A DEI Book Club was held on the 11th. Composites were taken on the 12th, and two recruitment workshops were held on the 12th and 13th. A formal meeting was held on the 14th. All the Hoot, a DEI event, was held on Zoom on the 16th, and a sisterhood was held on the 18th. A formal meeting was held on the 21st, and another DEI bookclub was held on Zoom on the 25th. Two more recruitment workshops were held on the 26th and 27th. A key DEI event and alumni education program were held on the 28th.

April:
Greek Week took place on the 5th, 6th and 7th, and the Greek Week banquet took place on the 9th. Our chapter won the Academic Excellence award at this banquet. A Reading is Fundamental event was held on the 10th. A formal meeting was on the 11th. DEI book club took place on the 15th and 29th. A sisterhood was held on the 16th at the house with a virtual option. Stewart Hour tours for upcoming recruitment primaries took place on the 17th with a virtual option. Department night took place on the 18th, and All the Hoot took place on the 20th. The virtual Senior Banquet, the New Active Retreat, and another session of the Stewart House Tours for primaries took place on the 23rd. Zoom Formal, and a Bid Day for new active members with a virtual option were held on the 24th. The in-person Senior Banquet and an informal meeting was held on the 25th. The last session of Stewart House tours took place on the 30th.

May:
Senior Tea and a formal meeting was held on the 2nd of May, and the last executive board meeting of the semester was held on the 3rd.

August:
Sorority Move-In was August 17th. Work Week for Recruitment was the 18th-23rd. Our chapter had a table at the Involvement Fair on the 23rd. House Tours were on the 24th. The first night of recruitment was the 25th at the Kappa House. The second night of recruitment was the 26th in the Morgan Room. The third night of recruitment was the 27th at the Stewart House. Bid Day was held on the 28th. Pledging of new members and a formal meeting was held at the Kappa House on the 29th. The executive board began meeting at 5:30pm every Monday on the 30th.

September:
Senior Orientation, the first New Member meeting, and an informal meeting were held on September 5th. The Standards Committee began meeting every Tuesday at 6:30pm on the 7th. A sisterhood at the Kappa House was held on the 8th. Expectations of Membership, a new member meeting, and department night were held on the 12th. A new member meeting and a programming night were held on the 19th. Another sisterhood was held on the 23rd at the Kappa House. A luncheon where member’s family members could eat at the Kappa House was held on the 25th. A Kappa Koffee Social Brunch with the Illinois State Kappa Chapter at the Stewart House, a new member meeting, and a formal meeting were held on the 26th. Every member of Greek life attended Title IX training on the 29th, and the New Member Retreat was held on the 30th at the Kappa House.

October:
A new member meeting and the Courage to Commit program were held on the 3rd of October. A sisterhood was held on the 6th, and a pumpkin carving exchange with the Phi Delts was held on the 8th. A new member meeting, the Founder’s Day event, and formal meeting in Dahl Chapel were held on the 10th. Our Health Drive week began on the 18th, and an Officer Interest meeting was held on the 20th. A Halloween Sisterhood at the Kappa House was held on the 21st, and some members of the chapter attended the Order of Omega ceremony on the 23rd. The Return of the Pledge Pin ceremony and formal meeting at the Kappa House were held on the 24th, and Inspiration Period began on the 25th. Ritual Review was held on the 26th, 27th, and 28th. Bloom into Kappa was held on the 27th, and Fireside was held on the 29th. Initiation took place at the Kappa House on the 30th. A senior education program and formal chapter were held on the 31st.

November:
Leadership Applications were due on the 2nd of November, and the Nomination Committee began training. Groovy, 70s semi-formal was held on the 5th. Interviews for executive board positions were held on the 6th and 7th. A Sex-positive program and an informal chapter were held on the 7th. A Kappa Kisses philanthropy event for Active Minds and slate discussion were held on the 9th. Trio-Days events with Pi Phi and Alpha Xi were held on the 10th, 11th, and 12th. The Slate was created and calls were made on the 10th, and the slate was present electronically on the 11th. A cypher-reading sisterhood was also held on the 11th. A movie watching exchange with Alpha Xi was held on the 12th. Elections were held during a formal meeting on the 14th, and joint executive board meetings were held on the 15th and 22nd. A Clothing Drive began on the 29th.

We support WIAR and the Jamison Community Center. Being involved locally is a great way to connect and support our community.

We supported Active Minds by raising money through candy grams, while also supporting mental health through thoughtful messages. For the Kappa Foundation, we are working with a local coffee shop at the end of the semester and raising money through coffee sales.

Spring 2021, our chapter installed a DEI officer under the VP of Member Development. This DEI director has held office hours for any member in the chapter to come and talk about any issues or DEI related topics. This officer held bi-weekly DEI events, such as a book club for the book, “Untamed”, and “All the Hoot” where members could all meet to discuss relevant topics. In order to prepare for recruitment, the DEI director had a presentation about current issues and ways to be more inclusive while recruiting new members. The DEI director met with every new member during their weekly meetings to introduce Kappa’s values and expectations of equality and inclusivity. The social media of our chapter has been very sensitive to current issues in the media, and our VP of External Affairs posts regularly about all of our members.

In the Spring semester of 2020, most events were held virtually on Zoom. If an event could be held safely in person, a virtual option was provided for those who were uncomfortable attending. In terms of Recruitment, the numbers as a whole were much lower than typical years. Policies were always changing as well. Our chapter worked hard to properly wear masks while indoors and to have events outside as much as possible. Wearing masks during date parties made it harder to socialize comfortably. Despite the challenges, our chapter had a successful formal recruitment. Initiation was relatively normal, but the ceremonies were shortened. Again, all members were required to wear mask inside. All new members have successfully been initiated and are now active members.

== Visiting Monmouth Today ==

A trip to Monmouth, Illinois, affords visitors the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the Founders of Kappa Kappa Gamma! The Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation operates [https://wiki.kkg.org/pages/File:Ph-10021.jpg The Stewart House Museum], open to the public for tours and events. The home of [https://wiki.kkg.org/pages/Martha_Louisa_%E2%80%9CLou%E2%80%9D_Stevenson Martha Louisa Stevenson] still stands and Kappa Kappa Gamma placed an [https://wiki.kkg.org/pages/File:StevensonMarker_reduced.jpg historical marker] on the property in 2009. The marker recognizes the home as the location of many early meetings of Alpha Chapter. Another [https://wiki.kkg.org/pages/File:KappaBridge.jpg historical marker] was placed at site of the [https://wiki.kkg.org/pages/File:BridgeNegativePrint.jpg "Kappa Bridge"] where early Fraternity History tells the story of two Kappa Founders meeting to discuss their plans for a Greek letter organization.

The brochure [https://wiki.kkg.org/pages/File:MapCover4.jpg ''Footsteps of the Founders''] is available at The Stewart House and includes a [https://wiki.kkg.org/pages/File:Cemetery_Map.jpg cemetery map] and a [https://wiki.kkg.org/pages/File:MapCemetery.jpg map of town] indicating the former locations of the homes of other Founders. Today only Minnie Stewart's home and Lou Stevenson's home are still standing.