Difference between pages "Beta Tau" and "Gamma Omicron"

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{{Infobox Fraternity
 
{{Infobox Fraternity
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|Name= Beta Tau
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|Name= Gamma Omicron
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|GreekSymbol= BT
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|GreekSymbol= ΓO
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|Image= [[File:Beta_Tau.jpg|200px]]
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|Image= [[File:Gamma_Omicron.jpg|200px]]
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|Founded= {{start date and years ago|1883|10|19}}
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|Founded= {{start date and years ago|1927|02|25}}
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|College= [http://www.syr.edu/ Syracuse University]
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|College= [https://www.uwyo.edu/ University of Wyoming]
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|Location= Syracuse, NY
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|Location= Laramie, WY
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|Homepage= [http://www.kkgsyracuse.com/page-0#!__page-0 Beta Tau Homepage]
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|Homepage= [https://uwyo.kappa.org/ Gamma Omicron Homepage]
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|Media= [http://wiki.kappakappagamma.org/index.php?title=Category:Beta_Tau Media related to Beta Tau]
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|Media= [https://wiki.kkg.org/index.php?title=Category:Gamma_Omicron Media related to Gamma Omicron Chapter]}}
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}}
 
  
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<table><tr><td>
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'''University of Wyoming, established in 1886 in Laramie, Wyoming'''
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'''Beta Tau Chapter, Syracuse University'''
 
  
  
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'''Syracuse University established 1870, Syracuse, New York'''
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'''Gamma Omicron founded February 25, 1927'''
  
  
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'''Beta Tau founded October 19, 1883 -- 7 charter members'''
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'''2,097 initiates (as of June 2018)'''
  
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'''Charter Members:'''
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Bess Bell Burris, France Elise Hays, Lillian Helsberg Hubbard, Patricia Lynch Jensen, Marie Mathew, Margaret Matilda Moudy, Eileen Elizabeth O'Mara, Kathleen McLaughlin O'Mara, Patricia Molly O'Mara, Ruth Prout, Catherine Helen Shicora, Doris Villers Spencer, Oselia Louise Stendahl, Etta Winnona Weaver, Auril Carmen Williams.
  
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'''2,786 initiates (as of June 2015''')
 
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'''Some of Beta Tau’s Outstanding Alumnae:'''
 
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(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 Members:'''
 
'''Fraternity Council Members:'''
  
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Anne Harter, Director of Philanthropies 1964-1966, Centennial Chairman 1968-1972 ; Dorothy Obrecht (Keller), Field Secretary 1948-1950; Samantha Britney, Traveling Consultant 1993-1994
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Collett Beers Rangitsch, Director of Chapters, 2010-2014; Director of Standards 2014-2016
  
  
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'''Fraternity Alumnae Achievement Award Recipients:'''
 
'''Fraternity Alumnae Achievement Award Recipients:'''
  
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Julia (Judy) Morton Cole, 1966, Fabric and fashion designer
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Margaret McIntosh Boice, 1964, Humanitarian and civic leader who worked to establish juvenile and domestic relations  court in Wyoming; Margaret Simson Curry, 1964, Author, journalist, poet; M. Margaret McKeown, 2000, Ninth Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals judge;
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Maxine Baker Davidson, 1998, singer, former president/CEO of Ogden Telephone Co., philanthropist
 
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Robin Burns, 1992, Cosmetics CEO for Calvin Klein, Estee Lauder, Victoria Secret Beauty
 
  
  
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'''Additional Outstanding Gamma Omicron Alumnae:'''
  
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Donna Waite (Brosn, Graduate Counselor 1977-1979;
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Ann Osborn (Chopich), Graduate Counselor 1977-1979;
  
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'''Additional Outstanding Beta Tau Alumnae:'''
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Heather Blockovich (Belt), Leadership Consultant, 2005-2006
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Dorothy Obrecht (Keller), Graduate Counselor 1947-1949; Mary Dailey (Metzger), Graduate Counselor 1961-1962; Ann Gibson, Graduate Counselor 1963-1965;  Jennifer E. (Eidam), Chapter Consultant 1998-1999; Maria Sansone, Youngest reporter in network TV history, later hosted Internet show The 9
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Sara Rangitsch, Leadership Consultant, 2015-2016
  
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==The Early Years==
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==The Early Years (from The History of Kappa Kappa Gamma 1870-1976)==
  
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The charter members of the second Tau chapter were initiated October 19, 1883, by Florence J. Lee, St. Lawrence, former Grand Treasurer, and members of Beta (Beta Beta) Chapter. The Alpha chapters of Alpha Phi and Gamma Phi Beta fraternities preceded Beta Tau on the Syracuse campus.
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The University of Wyoming, founded in 1886, four years before Wyoming was admitted to statehood, is unique in that it is the state’s only four-year university.
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Syracuse University, a nonsectarian institution that had 622 students and 43 faculty members in 1883, was founded by the New York State Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church in cooperation with the city of Syracuse.
 
  
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In 1883, Ella Blakeslee and six close friends decided to organize themselves into a group. Professor Underwood suggested Kappa Kappa Gamma and wrote a letter to an “influential” Kappa: a charter was secured, and the second Tau was born.
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Wyoming was the first state to give women the right to vote, the first to have a female governor, many of the university’s first students were women, and Wyoming women and female students then and now have been outstanding leaders in their fields.
  
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Scholarly and literary activities, campus programs and finally, around 1900, sports, occupied the members. A university medal, awarded to the senior woman who had exerted the most helpful influence on the campus, was first presented in 1922, to active Ruth Eleanor Sweet.
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On November 9, 1920, Gamma Zeta, a local group, was established on campus with the hope from the beginning of becoming a Kappa chapter, living up to all of Kappa’s standards, and observing Panhellenic regulations. A strong and active organization was developed, entering every phase of university life and twice winning the Panhellenic scholarship cup. A strong supporter was Anna Broady Haggard, Nebraska, a member of the university’s board of trustees. Patroness Frances Longan Arnold, Missouri, gave much support and interest. Kappa alumnae from Cheyenne, Wyoming and Denver, Colorado were much involved in spite of the great distances between them and Laramie.
  
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In 1896, Beta Tau’s short existence was threatened by a warning from the Grand Council to be “very careful in selecting members.” A Convention discussion had declared that fine arts students were a “weakening” influence, because many took courses for certificates rather than for degrees. However, the nationally recognized John Crouse College of Fine Arts at Syracuse granted regular four-year degrees and about half of Beta Tau’s members were fine arts students.
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In 1926, Georgia Hayden Lloyd-Jones, Wisconsin, then Fraternity Director of Provinces and Chairman of Extension, visited Gamma Zeta and liked what she saw. That summer at the General Convention, permission was given for a formal petition. The petition was favorably received and on February 25, 1927, Gamma Omicron Chapter was installed. Mrs. Lloyd Jones, by then Fraternity President, was the installing officer. Representatives of Beta Mu Chapter at Colorado University assisted. Members from Sigma Chapter at the University of Nebraska were also present. There was an initiation of the charter members and of Gamma Zeta alumnae who held degrees from the university.  There was a formal banquet and a breakfast given by the other women’s fraternities in honor of Gamma Omicron.
  
  
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==Turn of the Century==
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'''Housing'''
  
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The matter was not settled until 1900 when the Convention voted that each chapter should limit its fine arts membership to 20 percent of its total. Beta Tau was commended for its cooperation.
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In 1924 Gamma Zeta had purchased a house at 605 Grand Avenue in Laramie. The present house, located at 1604 E. Sorority Row, was built in 1940 to house 34 members although a few more could be squeezed in. In 1963, girls returning after summer vacation were greeted by a fine addition containing a larger dining room and kitchen, a large study and chapter room, three new bedrooms, bath and laundry room. The “old” part of the house had been redecorated and Gamma Omicron had the house on Fraternity Row.
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Beta Tau alumnae and their families, as well as members who wished to remember alumnae, gave the chapter gifts to be used as honors for outstanding members. Sometime shortly before 1907, the husband of a deceased, young alumna, Elizann Hunter Melvin, gave the chapter a memorial bronze table for annual recognition of Beta Tau’s outstanding senior. He also gave money, the interest from which was used to decorate, quip, and maintain the chapter rooms. The Class of 1907 presented a cup to honor the senior with the highest average in memory of Ella Wallace Wells, author of “The Kappa Symphony.” She was the daughter of Harriet Blakeslee Wallace. Mrs. Wallace had donated a set of Kappa china that she designed and had made in Syracuse. Mrs. Wallace continued in her devotion to the chapter and after her death in January 1928, was made a Keystone Kappa by Beta Tau. In 1916, Ella Blakeslee, Beta Tau’s founder, gave the chapter a scroll on which to inscribe annually the name of the chapter’s most helpful sophomore, and the Syracuse alumnae bought a cup to be awarded to the sophomore with the highest average.
 
  
  
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'''Housing'''
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'''Campus Honors'''
  
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Early chapter meetings were in members’ homes, in rented rooms, and, from 1898–1915, in a rented house “built according to our specifications.” In 1915, a new home was found, and the chapter moved, in 1930, to 743 Comstock Avenue.
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In 1973-74, Gamma Omicron was first in scholarship among the Greek houses, with the highest average ever recorded for an active chapter on the Wyoming campus. That year, six out of 21 Mortar Board members were Kappas, there were two Phi Beta Kappas and three Phi Kappa Phis. Spring of 1974 saw 16 Gamma Omicrons as graduating seniors, the highest percentage of a pledge class to graduate in the chapter’s history.
  
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Beta Tau’s activities were centered on the prevailing social and political happenings of the times. During World War I, the Kappa house was the university headquarters for Red Cross activities. The influenza epidemic of 1918 handicapped relief work, but Beta Tau’s dessert less dinners helped support the Dorothy Canfield Fisher Fund and the Chinese Famine Fund. In 1934, A Beta Tau party was graced by the presence of a movie star, Buddy Rogers. In 1935, the chapter sang on a national radio show. When most of the Syracuse men left to fight in World War II, Beta Tau, like most chapters, began working for the war effort. The year 1946 brought “normalcy at Syracuse—meaning change”: Classes in pre-fabricated buildings, a liberalized curfew (10:15 for underclassmen, 11:15 for upperclassmen) and the abolition of the drinking ban. “Kappas are in every phase of campus life,” quoted the record from 1946 to 1952. Good scholarship, good leadership, good cooperation with other Greek houses, and good works filled the pages of the minutes.
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That same year, Panhellenic had offered a new All Greek House Award based on points for girls receiving honors, chosen as queens, for scholarship, leadership and service to the community and university, and general campus participation. Gamma Omicron was proud to be the first to win this new award. Through the years, many campus and chapter leaders have gone on to national recognition. Gamma Omicron has claimed three Miss Wyoming pageant winners who have placed in the top 10 in the Miss America finals, and one runner-up. Karen Morris (Gowdy) reigned as American’s Junior Miss 1974-75. Margaret Simson (Curry) was a member of the journalism honoraries while in school and wrote for and edited campus publications. She was an instructor in creative writing at Casper College and published articles, poetry, short stories, novels, and children’s books.
  
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Just as the women of Wyoming were the first to vote, so were the Kappas of Gamma Omicron leaders in other matters. When the famous contralto Marian Anderson came to the university for a scheduled concert, none of the local hotels would give her lodging.  The Kappas were proud to have her as their honored guest.  Gamma Omicron was the first NPC chapter on campus to sponsor a foreign student. Elizabeth Scott, an exchange student from London, stayed at the house during 1950-51. Sally Shotgun, an Indian student, lived at the house in 1957-58 and added much to the chapter although she was not a member.
  
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'''Traditions and Honors'''
 
  
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In 1954, Beta Tau received the Gracious Living Award and won honorable mention for the same award in 1958. Beta Tau won honorable mention for overall chapter improvement at the 1962 Convention; this was the year Peggy Beeson (Heinisch), Ohio Wesleyan, was the chapter’s Graduate Counselor. The Advisory Board provided by the Syracuse Alumnae Association also won a first place that year.
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==The World War II Years and Beyond==
  
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Outstanding alumnae include Ida Gibson Gibbons, an associate editor of Mademoiselle, who also worked for Nettie Rosenstein; Mabel Potter Daggett, author; Anna Harbottle Whittic, political economist; and Caroline Romer, botanist.
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The World War II years were interesting for Gamma Omicron as well as sad. The large chapter became very close and family-like due to the lack of social life. In 1946, the Kappa spring dinner-dance was held for the first time in four years. Spring 1949 saw a 100% initiation of a pledge class – a first for Gamma Omicron.
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Like so many other Greek groups, Gamma Omicron hit a low spot between 1965 and 1970. It was a hard fight to remain afloat, but with third-generation Gamma Omicrons coming to a larger and better university, and outstanding Wyoming women becoming Kappas, the chapter was poised to continue its leadership on campus.
  
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Anne Harter served the Fraternity as Director of Philanthropies, 1964–1966. She was then appointed chairman of the Centennial Committee, which formulated and directed the events of a memorable celebration of Kappa’s first 100 years. Attainment of the half-million-dollar goal for the Centennial Fund, which provided grants for undergraduate and graduate work in rehabilitation, was the crowning achievement of the year.
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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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Beta Tau faced a new challenge in the late 1960s and the early 1970s when students rebelled against the traditional “system.” Beta Tau and other groups struggled to prove to the campus that individuals could preserve independence while still functioning as chapter members. Ritual and tradition became secondary as Kappas involved themselves in draft counseling and other Vietnam war-related activities. Sororities had to measure their housing rules against new campus standards of dormitory autonomy, unlimited visitation and co-educational dormitories. Six sororities and ten fraternities on campus closed during this period.
 
  
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With the end of the war, students lost their overt concern for ideologies and reverted to the rock and roll of the 1950s, in dress, music and actions. The Greek system gained strength as social activities, philanthropic projects and the values of association with an identifiable group came back into vogue.
 
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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 1970s==
 
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The chapter during the 1970s into 1980s was shown in the many photographs and recorded memories were found in scrapbooks in the house library. The photos were filled with wonderful women who were all very proud and elated to be a part of a sisterhood. Greek life on the Syracuse campus at the time was small, but everyone involved was very passionate about it.       
 
  
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One challenge the chapter seemed to face during the late 70's was membership. Young women on the Syracuse University campus were not as excited about joining the Greek Life. In 1975, the pledge class consisted of only ten girls. But as years went on, joining a sorority became more popular and less taboo. Whether there were only ten members in a pledge class or thirty, all the women involved in Kappa at this time were proud and did all they could to increase membership. 
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==Highlights of the 1970s==
  
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Many of the significant events that Kappas participated in during these years still exist, and Kappas are equally as involved. These events include the Homecoming Parade, Parent's Weekend, Founders Day Tea, and Greek Weekend. The late 70's and early 80's were a much different time, so certain events during Greek Weekend were definitely different. However, the general theme of raising awareness about the great experience of being involved in the Greek community at Syracuse still rings true. As for events specific to Kappa, the Scholarship Dinner, Founders Day Celebration, and Parent's Weekend continue as important occasions celebrated in the same way they were then. In 1980, Founders Day and Parent's Weekend were celebrated together, so parents of actives were able to come to the celebration and meet alumni who returned for it. Fall and spring formals were popular during this time, as were Crush parties. The sisters bonded during Inspiration Week, a week that was a monumental bonding experience for the chapter members. Another tradition that lives on is the Pillow-Paddle exchange (although now wooden keys are exchanged as opposed to paddles between Mother and Daughter what later was called Big and Little.
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Gamma Omicron was pleased to celebrate its 50th anniversary as part of the University of Wyoming campus by giving two $300 scholarships. In addition, philanthropy continued to be a big part of the chapter’s tradition. The chapter collected money for the Wyoming Multiple Sclerosis Society and by holding a Read-a-thon and Walk-a-thon for the four elementary schools in the area.
  
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Homecoming was an important part of the University’s fall calendar.  Throughout the seventies, the Kappas were often a part of the Homecoming Court and won awards for their floats. In the ten years between 1975 and 1985 the Gamma Omicrons took first place four times in the annual Homecoming Sing.
  
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In 1975 and 1976 Gamma Omicron received awards for achievement in Panhellenic and Gracious Living.
  
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==Highlights 1980s==
 
  
  
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'''Philanthropy:'''
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==Highlights of the 1980s==
  
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In 1987, The Kappas and the Thetas continued their tradition of Kite and Key which not only brought the two chapters closer together, but also raised a great deal of money for FACT, a local cancer support group. The chapter also did an Easter Basket delivery for Upstate Medical Center where sisters distributed final bags to students whose families donated money to the Rose McGill fund.
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During the early 1980’s Wyoming experienced a “boom period” where high energy prices boosted the state’s coal, oil, and natural gas industries. Unfortunately, the economic boom was short lived.  By the mid 1980’s energy prices were falling and the economy was hurt by its lack of diversity.  Thankfully, tourism did see a surge in popularity.
  
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In 1989, the chapter participated in Crop Walk and joined with Phi Kappa Psis to raise money to fight hunger. The chapter also had a pumpkin decorating party with some underprivileged children in Syracuse and hosted a Thanksgiving luncheon for geriatric patients at St. Joseph’s hospital.
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Gamma Omicron’s challenge during this time was to dispel the myths of fraternity life. The members worked hard on their reputation on campus and in the community by doing multiple community service projects, instilling values regarding members’ behavior at social functions and promoting interests and friendships outside of Kappa.
  
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Throughout the decade the chapter was pleased to receive awards for outstanding academic achievement and public relations.
  
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'''Campus Awards:'''
 
  
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Homecoming Week Champions (1980; with Alpha Tau Omega);
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==Highlights of 2000-2010==
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Syracuse University Dance Marathon for Muscular Dystrophy 2nd Place (1980; with Psi Upsilon);
 
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Greek Weekend 2nd Place (1980);
 
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Tie for 2nd place for the honored Hilton Cup (1980);
 
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Most Improved in Scholastics (1980);
 
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In 1988, the chapter pledged 45 girls so it was important to build chapter unity. This was accomplished by increasing the sister/pledge functions, improved chapter meetings, passing the gavel, Kappa consideration key and roommate appreciation day. 
 
  
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The chapter goal for the year was Unity and the chapter motto was Kappa Family. The chapter pledged a record 60 new members this year. The chapter teamed up with ATO for Homecoming and won first place for the second year in a row. In addition, the Kappa’s came in first at the SAE annual Paddy Murphy event which landed the chapter a new TV.
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By the beginning of the new millennium, the University of Wyoming had a student population of approximately 13,000 with about 4% of the campus population involved in the Greek community.
  
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Gamma Omicron took on several challenges throughout this decade.  They felt it was necessary for the chapter to understand the role of Panhellenic on their campus. As a result of this increased understanding, several members served on the Panhellenic Council in a variety of positions.  Next, the chapter concentrated on developing their relations with their alumnae. It was particularly rewarding for the chapter when they were able to celebrate Gamma Omicron’s 80th anniversary with one of the chapter’s founders.  Finally, the chapter also worked to enforce its attendance policies while limiting the number of events in which the chapter would be involved.
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This resulted in better chapter participation.
  
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==Highlights of the 1990s==
 
  
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'''Philanthropy:'''
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'''Philanthropy'''  
  
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In 1990, the chapter joined forces with ATO to sell daffodils to raise money for the American Cancer Society. The chapter also participated in Dance Marathon with SAE to help raise money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.  
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Philanthropy continued to be a strong suit for Gamma Omicron. The chapter continued to organize its Mr. Wyoming pageant for the benefit of the Red Cross. Wing Fling (a buffalo wing dinner), an AIDS Walk, and a Holly’s House Silent Auction.  Numerous community service hours were also contributed to Safe Treat (a Halloween trick-or-treat event), the local elementary schools and other various community organizations.
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In 1994 the chapter again participated in Daffodil Days with ATO to raise money for the American Cancer Society. The chapter sold more than 3,670 bouquets of daffodils for the project which raised a lot of money. The chapter also took part in a cookie baking event for the Dorothy Day house, a local philanthropy that houses battered women and children.
 
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Chapter Convention Awards:  In 1994, Beta Tau received Honorable Mention awards in both Scholarship and Pledge Education categories.  The chapter was also one of the few to completely fulfill the Challenge to Excellence.
 
  
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A chapter goal during 1990 was to create more involvement in chapter activities, especially in philanthropy events. Awards were given for attendance at philanthropy events. Workshops on standards and ethics also raised the awareness of the importance of philanthropy.
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Gamma Omicron continued to receive many Greek Week awards and their members were recognized for their service to the University and the community. At the 2008 Kappa Convention, the chapter received the Housed Gracious Living Award and honorable mentions for the Most Improved Chapter, Academic Excellence and Finance.  At the 2010 Kappa Convention, Gamma Omicron received recognition for its New Member Program and honorable mentions for Gracious Living, Heritage, Standards and Panhellenic.  
  
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The chapter partnered with Phi Gamma Delta to participate in Dance Marathon in 1992. Some Beta Tau sisters danced for 30 straight hours.  The chapter attained #1 status on campus in scholarship with the highest average G.P.A. of all the sororities on campus. The motto for the year was “Kappa Kappa Commitment” and the chapter developed a special unity committee to help reach the goal of a stronger focus on unity and commitment. The Iris Garden was established outside the house and was dedicated to sister’s relatives who had passed away.
 
  
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At the university’s 1995 Greek Awards Banquet, Beta Tau received an award for Outstanding Chapter newsletter and an award for Outstanding Pledge Education Program. The chapter motto for the year was Kreating Kappa Greatness. The responsibility for attaining this goal was the responsibility of each Beta Tau sister and all of the members working together to achieve that greatness. 
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==Highlights of 2012==
  
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The biggest success in 1996 was Kappa’s victory in the annual Powder Puff tournament, an event that is hosted by Sigma Pi Epsilon and the money raised benefited AIDS causes. The annual goal was Kick Kappa into Gear. Achieving this motto was helped by the implementation of a successful phone chain and Kappas who volunteered their time to important philanthropy events.
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The Spring 2012 semester started off with officer transitions, and Samantha Gimelli was appointed as the new president of the Gamma Omicron chapter. The newly installed officers worked diligently with one another to ensure that the chapter was operating at it's highest possible potential and efficiency.  
  
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The chapter took first placed in the 1997 Homecoming skit event, being paired with Psi Upsilon.  A chapter consultant came to stay with the chapter during the year. She did a great job of raising spirits, promoting attendance and raising ritual awareness amount the members. Chapter goal was Create Kappa Knowledge.
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After installing a wonderful team of new officers, 3 new members were added to the chapter through Spring recruitment. All 3 of these women became initiated members after learning about the history of Kappa Kappa Gamma and their chapter through a very informative New Member Program in the Spring. After a wonderful Formal Recruitment in the fall, the chapter welcomed 22 new members on the most patriotic Bid Day yet! The theme for the Fall 2012 bid day was Kappa Olympics, and the girls got to know their new sisters while participating in fun team games. After completing a New Member Program and all the necessary components, 20 of those new members were initiated on November 10, 2012.  
  
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In 1998, the chapter had a number of sister events during the year which helped strengthen the bonds holding the chapter together, and the chapter participated in a number of philanthropy events. During the year, several members were inducted into honors fraternities and eight women made the Dean’s List. The chapter paired up with Sigma Chi for Homecoming events winning the Yell-Like Hell contest and finished second in Powder-puff football.
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In June, the Gamma Omicron chapter was represented by 5 of our lovely members when they attended National Convention in Jacksonville, Florida, where we received an award for our Ritual, and also an honorable mention for our Standards. In addition to those awards, the chapter also received the Sisterhood award at the All Greek Awards.
  
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The chapter attained #1 in G.P.A. on the campus for 1999 mostly attributed to outstanding academic achievements and hard work in school. The chapter along with the members of Sigma Delta Tau had children from the Vincent House come over for a Halloween Party. The Vincent House is an after-school program for disadvantaged kids. Everyone face painted, played games and trick-retreated in the Kappa house.
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Multiple women represented the chapter in a variety of Greek life activities. In 2012, our chapter had 5 women serve in Panhellinic. Katie Cook was the programming chair, Molly Stevens was our delegate, Hayley Czarnecki was the public relations chair, Lauren Robertson was the Executive Vice President of Panhellinic, and Rachael Carlsgaard held the position of Panhellinic President. In addition to the chapter's Panhellinic involvement, the chapter had 6 members serve as recruitment leaders for Fall 2012 Sorority recruiment.
  
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Scholarship is always important to the members of Gamma Omicron. There are a large portion of women in the chapter who represent Kappa Kappa Gamma in various Honor Societies at the University of Wyoming. At the end of the Spring semester, the chapter ended at a 2.98 average grade point average, which was just shy of the all women's average of 3.1, and the Sorority average of 3.13. Being so close to success served as motivation for our chapter to set its goals higher in the Fall, with a goal grade point average of 3.55.
  
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In addition to scholarship, the chapter also focused on giving back to our local and national philanthropies. In the Spring, the philanthropy chairman organized our annual Wing Fling. We were able to raise $1,100 for our philanthropic partner, Reading is Fundamental and the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation. On Halloween, the women of the chapter dressed up in their favorite costumes, and participated in an event called Safe Treat, where they created a safe and fun experience for children who wanted to trick-or-treat. In the Fall, our philanthropy chairman got the entire chapter involved in planning the Mr. Wyoming pageant. It was a hilarious experience watching the men perform their best talents, answer insightful questions, and dress up in their fanciest evening wear. The pageant also raised $4,295.18 through ticket sales and donations for our local philanthropy, the Albany Red Cross. Members of the chapter are also involved in various service organizations, and participate in service projects. For example, some women participated in cleaning up the campus, others volunteered to ring the bell for the Salvation Army, and other women are involved in Relay for Life.
  
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==A New Millennium - Highlights of 2000-2010==
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After working hard, the chapter celebrated with social events. The chapter's Event Chairman planned the annual Sapphire Ball. It was an awesome opportunity for the women to dress up, take pictures, and to bond with their sisters and their dates. Once everyone returned to school for the fall, the chapter celebrated with their annual Barn Dance. The girls and their dates donned their best country-themed attire, and everyone boarded one of two chartered busses to Cheyenne where we had Barn Dance at the Terry Bison Ranch. The officers and alumnae involved worked together to make sure that we were safe, that the event ran smoothly, and that everyone had a good time. The members of the chapter love to get together and dance and sing. The music chairman and the ladies of the Gamma Omicron chapter choreographed a dance for the Greek Week Talent show, and in the fall, the women showed their Wyoming Poke Pride by performing their own original song and dance at the Homecoming sing. The ladies of Kappa Kappa Gamma took initiative and built a Homecoming float that they then rode on in the parade, while singing songs, and passing out candy.
  
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'''Housing:'''
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This year was a great one for the Gamma Omicron chapter, but it did not come without challenges. The biggest challenge the chapter faced as a whole was the closing of the kitchen. Due to insurance and safety reasons, it was decided that the kitchen was to be closed. Prior to this decision, women were allowed to walk freely in and out of the kitchen, and to use to the stove and oven to cook for themselves. With the new rule, only staff were allowed within the kitchen. This was quite the adjustment for many of the members, but everyone cooperated and followed the new rules. It was a challenge because the chapter requires the use of the kitchen for certain events during the year, the members were not always able to access the leftovers, and many women had to find other arrangements for eating if they were used to preparing some of their own meals. After much thought and consideration, our House Board was able to work with Nationals to re-open the kitchen under very specific conditions. Since the members of the house are not trained to use commericial-grade cooking appliances, we are unable to use the stove or oven. However, we are able to be present in the kitchen during certain hours, able to access leftovers, and to use appliances for specific events under supervision. This was the biggest challenge for the chapter in 2012, but it was able to resolved
  
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The chapter worked closely with the House Board to accomplish an entire revamp of the washrooms and bathrooms as well as adding new lighting in the back hallway, new draperies and a fresh paint job in the Red Room.
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The University of Wyoming is constantly making changes to the campus, and in 2012, the campus underwent construction. Specifically, the University added landscaping in front of the Education building.
  
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The overall nature of the chapter is supportive, honest, loyal, and fun. There are always women around to listen and with suggestions when someone is having a rough day. The women of the chapter support one another, are looking out for each other's best interests, and are loyal. We always have the best time at our social events, philanthropy events, and in everything we do together. The women of the chapter encourage one another to succeed and to reach their fullest potential. Members of the Gamma Omicron chapter are hilarious, interesting, and exquisite women, who appreciate one other and the bond of sisterhood. It's an honor to be a Kappa Kappa Gamma, and an honor to be a part of the Gamma Omicron Chapter.
  
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'''Philanthropy:'''
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==Highlights of 2013==
  
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In 2007. the chapter participated in Alpha Epsilon Pi’s Wiffles and Waffles Philanthropy event, a wiffleball tournament in which the chapter made it to the championship game. 
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The past 2013 year has been another great year for Gamma Omicron chapter. The Spring semester started out by appointing Ms. Lora Waeckerle as the chapter’s president along with her new officers that would be serving on Chapter Council. The newly transitioned officers took pride in their leadership positions and were very enthusiastic with new ideas they could bring to the chapter.  
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By late spring 2008, Beta Tau was busy supporting fellow chapters on campus and participating in numerous philanthropy events such as Delta Gamma's Anchor Splash and Alpha Epsilon Pi’s Wiffles n' Waffles tournament. The girls also participated in various community events, including the Take Back the Night walk to raise awareness of sexual violence. The chapter co-sponsored NOLApalooza-- an event to raise awareness and money for the devastating effects on New Orleans from Hurricane Katrina.  
 
  
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Along with the gaining new women in leadership roles, the chapter also gained 6 New Members through an informal Spring recruitment. All 6 of these women were initiated after completing their New Member period and learning about the history and values of Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity. After a diligent and successful work week before the new school year started, the chapter was fully prepared and optimistic for Fall Formal Recruitment. Their optimism prevailed and 36 new members were welcomed into Gamma Omicron chapter with a Vegas themed Bid Day. Feeling very “lucky”, not only to have new women joining the chapter and “lucky to be a KKG”, the women played fun Vegas gambling games, took pictures in the photo booth and hit the wedding chapel in celebration. Of these 36 women, 35 were pledged and officially recognized as New Members. The chapter was very excited as this was the biggest pledge class Gamma Omicron has had in a long time. After completing a well-organized New Member Program put on by the New Member Chairman, Katy Zahorik, and fulfilling the requirements for a New Member, 31 of these women were initiated on November 9, 2013.
  
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'''Philanthropy:'''
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Throughout the year our chapter and individuals within the chapter received awards and held positions on Panhellenic council. In April, our Greek community held the Greek Week Awards where chapters were given awards based on results from our annual Greek Week and awards that were voted individually by each chapter. Gamma Omicron as a chapter was awarded the Most Community Service award and the Greek Adviser award. Mary Gokanakonda did the chapter proud and was awarded the New Member of the Year award.
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In 2010, the Beta Tau held two successful philanthropy events called Kappa Kickball and Kappa Karwash.
 
  
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Two of our members served on Panhellenic Council: Lauren Robertson was Panhellenic President and Carolyn Hammersmark served as programming chair. Two of our members also were selected to serve as recruitment leaders for the Fall 2013 Sorority Recruitment. Even though we did not have much representation on the Panhellenic Council, the chapter fulfilled one of our chapter goals of becoming more involved in the Panhellenic community by attending events and philanthropies put on by other chapters and attended Panhellenic meetings weekly. Members of the chapter also attended and represented Gamma Omicron at the Eta Province in Boulder, Colorado where we were awarded Outstanding Communication, Fraternity Education and Ritual, and House Board Excellence and honorable mention for Panhellenic and Campus Involvement.
  
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'''Convention Awards:'''
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With Philanthropy being one of our four pillars, Gamma Omicron was very dedicated and successful in fundraising for our philanthropies and Natalie Basolo, our Philanthropy Chairman, was more than prepared to make this happen. In March we hosted our annual Wing Fling fundraiser which raised $1650 to be divided equally between Reading is Fundamental, the Kappa Gamma Foundation and our Relay for Life team. Along with Wing Fling, our philanthropy chairman organized our chapter to participate as a team in the university’s Relay for Life.
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The chapter raised $1600 (which included the $550 from Wing Fling) after a long night of walking and fundraising for a great cause.
  
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At the 2010 convention, the Beta Tau received the most improved chapter award.  
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We were awarded the Highest Fundraising Sorority and Greek Chapter from Relay for Life which was a great achievement for our first year with outstanding participation from the chapter. In the fall, the chapter decided to make a change and move our annual Mr. Wyoming Pageant to the upcoming spring semester and held our first annual Kappa Con Chili fundraiser. At this event we charged a small fee for guests to enjoy all you can eat chili and cornbread. This was an adjustment period for Gamma Omicron but we are excited for the hopeful success this event will hold in the future. The chapter raised a total of $600 again to be divided between Reading is Fundamental, the foundation and Relay for Life. Along with our two main fundraisers, the chapter participated in other philanthropic events on campus and in the community such as Safe Treat on Halloween, serving at the soup kitchen, participating in Campus Clean Up, and many others.
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After all of the hard work put into our philanthropies our Event Chairman, Secia Porreco, awarded everyone with fun and exciting events throughout the year. In March, we had our annual Sapphire Ball which was held at the Hilton Garden Inn here in Laramie. Although Wyoming weather isn’t always the warmest, it agreed with us that night as we walked to the Hilton, chanting our Kappa songs and showing our pride with our dates in arm. In April women of the chapter competed in Greek week activities and took 2nd place in the large group talent competition performing an upbeat dance choreographed by our music chair, Savannah Moyte. In all the events the ladies of Gamma Omicron represented Kappa Gamma with great sportsmanship and class.
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The major events for the fall came with Homecoming Week where we were paired with the gentlemen of Pi Kappa Alpha. Secia planned a week filled with events to get to know the men and build our pirate ship Homecoming float. Again, the Wyoming weather cooperated with us and we rode and walked in the parade while passing out candy and chanting songs with pride on the ship before the football game. A couple weeks later we had our annual Barn Dance. The girls put on their jeans or dresses and cowboy boots to showcase their inner cowgirl. The event was held at the Hilton and was filled with delicious food, great music to swing dance to and a good time.
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As always, our academics are very important to us and always is a main focus. However, this past year it was one of our greater challenges that we had to overcome. With not being ranked as high as we would have liked on our GPA among the other chapters, Gamma Omicron was given an Academic Focus Plan. This plan required every member to complete a mandatory 5 study hours per week with supervision of our Vice President of Academic Excellence, Sami Gimelli, and her committee. Although this plan was a dramatic change for the chapter, the women worked together and motivated one another to improve our academics. The focus plan has helped improve the chapter’s GPA and we are very optimistic about continuing our academic improvement.
  
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During Homecoming 2005, the chapter marched in the annual Homecoming parade and won most spirited! On Halloween, the chapter participated in a campus event called Greek or Treat that included face-painting local community children while the older children went through the Delta haunted house.
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The University has made some changes in the past year both administrational and architectural. After his 35 years at the university with eight of those years as the president, Tom Buchanan retired from his office at the end of summer of 2013. The University of Wyoming hired Bob Sternberg to fulfill the position as president in July. However, Sternberg’s office was short-lived, resigning from office in November. Dick McGinity then served as the interim president for the remainder of the year.
  
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The chapter decided to encourage members to become better Kappas by giving awards at chapter meeting each week including Geek of the Week for great academic achievement and Amazing Actives for members who put in extra time and effort into the chapter for that particular week.
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The university is also undergoing major construction to different aspects of the campus. There are three major construction projects that impact the student body. They are currently making renovations and additions to the Half Acre Recreational Gym, renovation and expansion to the Buchanan Center for the Performing Arts, and currently building a brand new welcome center called the Marian H. Rochelle Gateway Center. Students are eager for the completion of these new additions and renovations. Even though the campus is making many additions, the university lost one of their chartered chapters this past year. Our Monmouth sisters of Pi Beta Phi are no longer a chapter on campus. Although the Greek community was very saddened by this, we are all hoping to increase our membership numbers and hopefully bring their chapter back in the near future.   
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In 2007, a Founders Day tea, which fell on Syracuse University’s homecoming week-end, drew many alumnae including a 94 year-old Beta Tau who was one of the first members to live in the house on Comstock Avenue.   
 
  
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A Chapter Improvement Plan was started in 2009 with Kappa Kindergarten. It was a day long sisterhood event to educate the chapter about the ins and outs of Kappa Kappa Gamma and Beta Tau. Chapter Council officers prepared "courses" that were relevant to their positions that they in turn taught to the chapter, focusing on Standards, Ritual, History, and the “big picture” of Kappa, teaching actives about alumnae opportunities and the Kappa Foundation.  
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Our chapter has also had changes to our house management and our physical appearance. Our house board hired a new house director, Ms. Clare Graziano. She has brought great ideas to the house and has been very efficient in her position. She recently discovered there were hard wood floors under the carpet on our staircase and front hall way so they were refurnished and are a great addition to the house. Because we are limited by our budget and lack of membership, there is not enough money to support any other major changes to the house at this time.   
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In addition to a strong year of philanthropy and service, this was also a huge year for Beta Tau, as we celebrated our 125th Anniversary on October 19th. The chapter planned a large celebration for this occasion, sending out invitations to alumnae, family, and Syracuse University officials. The celebration brought many people together, bridging generational gaps and bringing old friends together. With the house decorated in blue and blue, sisters and alumnae bonded over old pictures and scrapbooks, sharing stories over fleur-de-lis cupcakes.
 
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Tragedy struck Beta Tau in November when the beloved house mother passed away suddenly in a car accident during Thanksgiving break. Fortunately, the Syracuse community came together and the chapter received an outpouring of support from the Greek community and the campus during the difficult time. Susie was a fair and gracious housemother and will always be remembered fondly.
 
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The chapter put a lot of effort into improving the chapter unity, values, pride and goals during 2010.  The chapter created a new officer position called Sisterhood Chair. This sister acts under the Standards Committee and strives to improve sisterhood amongst members. The chapter also made ritual a larger part of the chapter with weekly ritual trivia, songs and workshops.
 
  
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The overall nature of Gamma Omicron chapter is growing in more ways than one. Throughout the past year our chapter has grown in numbers, in our bonds of sisterhood, and through our challenges that we have faced as a chapter. Our chapter nature is very positive and we are very supportive of one another in all that we do. The chapter also remains very loyal and honest to one another and to the fraternity.
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'''Convention Awards'''
 
  
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In addition to receiving the most improved chapter at the 2010 Convention, the Beta Tau Chapter also received the Golf Cut Accreditation Award from Syracuse University. During the year, the chapter celebrated their 80th birthday.
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==Highlights of 2014==
  
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==Highlights of 2011-2019== 
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The first major event of 2014 was the appointment of a new president, Mary Gokanakonda. Along with the appointment of the new president the Gamma Omicron chapter also transitioned several new women into the variety of officer positions. Briana Long and Oliva Haugh also both held panhellinic positions.
  
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(From chapter’s History Report: Scholarship, group honors/awards, traditions, special events, changes on campus or within chapter, overall nature of the chapter, chapter goals, challenges and how they were overcome, etc.)
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With spring came informal spring recruitment. The women of Gamma Omicron welcomed seven new initiates, after the completion of their new member period. After a successful informal spring recruitment the chapter began thinking about fall formal recruitment. After a stressful and exiting work week the women of Gamma Omicron were prepared for requirement week. The planning and preparation were well worth it when the chapter pledged 27 new members. The new members were welcomed with a kappily ever after themed bid day. After a thorough new member period and the guidance of the New Member Chairmen, Alex Jelly, and initiation took place on November 15 conducted by the marshal Traci Folkman. With the new initiates the chapter has a total of 94 initiated members.
  
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==2011==
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The Gamma Omicron chapter also received awards at the annual Greek Awards. The chapter received the risk management award for its dedication to safety and the perseverance of the risk management chairman Taylor Chaulk. Gamma Omicron also received the honor of being the highest raising sorority for Relay for Life. The chapter continues to raise money for Kappa Kappa Gamma's national philanthropy, Reading is fundamental, the Kappa foundation and Gamma Omicrons local philanthropy the Red Cross of Albany County. Through events such as the Mr. Wyoming Pageant and Chili con Kappa. Gamma Omicron also participated in Safe Treat, helped at the local soup kitchen and was part of the big Event, a city wide clean up event. Gamma Omicron's philanthropic success was headed by the philanthropy chairman Savanah Moyte.  
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Founded in 1870, Syracuse University is a beautiful school in Upstate New York with a strong tradition of excellence. Students focus on academics, while being spirited and enthusiastic about the campus, cheering on the Syracuse Orange athletics, and boasting a top ranked basketball team, and a championship-winning men’s lacrosse team. Beta Tau goes well with the campus, as the members are motivated and passionate young women, proud of academics, the University, our sisterhood, and one another. SU is dedicated to engagement and interaction with the community, and our chapter fits in with that view, as we work to be involved and committed both on our campus and in the community. With a committed Community Service Chairman, Beta Tau works hard to engage in and cultivate social responsibility, giving time and effort to improving the community, helping others, and doing good in the world—through both service activities and philanthropic donations. With a continued commitment to volunteering, academics, philanthropy, and sisterhood, Beta Tau is proud of its involvement with the University. Our Professors ‘Tea is always a favorite of the actives, as it gives the members a chance to interact with SU faculty outside of the classroom. Additionally, Kappas are involved with numerous clubs and teams on campus, as the members all enjoy being involved with all that Syracuse University has to offer.  
 
  
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Through our Chapter Improvement Plan, the members are working to improve many areas including officer training and transition by having each officer write a welcome letter to her successor. This has already proven helpful with those officers who will be going abroad, as their successors now have a personal letter with advice and ideas to help them succeed.
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The women of Gamma Omicron also had the opportunity to participate in social events, coordinated by the event chairmen, Taylor Campbell in the spring and Molly Duncan in the fall. Some of the events that were organized were the spring formal and the annual fall barn dance. The women of Gamma Omicron also involved in Greek Week, paired with Pi Kappa Phi and Homecoming week, with Sigma Phi Epsilon. Winning the women's division for homecoming sing.  
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Beta Tau is working to make its Standards program the best it can be in order to foster spirit and morale while maintaining and educating the chapter on Fraternity standards and policies.
 
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Additionally, a continuing challenge for our chapter is instilling understanding and passion for the ritual. The first step forward was electing a strong Marshal who set goals that were a reflection of the chapter improvement plan. Starting at Kappa Kindergarten, she educated the chapter on the basics of ritual including general procedure, song, and various acts the members do as a chapter during ritual. She then held three other ritual review workshops, and after holding fall Initiation, our improvements showed. She also made necessary adjustments to some of the transitions during ritual to minimize the talking and keep the chapter focused. Every week at chapter meeting she reads a passage from the ritual book to familiarize our chapter with the beauty and importance of the ritual which has definitely brought the ritual to life for many of our members.
 
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Another challenge to the chapter was attendance. It was determined that girls did not feel involved enough in the chapter to engage themselves. Thus, everyone has worked hard to instill leadership and communication in the chapter. Instead of relying on Chapter Council to conduct and manage everything, the members have made goals to rely more on the committees, involving each sister, with 10 minute committee meetings at the end of each chapter meeting. At the first of the year, each sister signed up to be on a committee headed by a sister on Chapter Council. In turn, each leader made a commitment to delegate her responsibilities. This has created a more unified and involved chapter. A weekly agenda was set and sent out before every chapter meeting highlighting the important information and dates going to be covered in the next meeting. Attendance still remains to be a challenge as a chapter, but the members are working hard to make sure everyone feels involved, and wants to be an important part of Beta Tau.  
 
  
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==Highlights of 2012==
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A focus of Gamma Omicron in the 2014 year has been academics. With the help of the vice president of academic excellence, Alyssa Huckins, the ladies of Gamma Omicron's GPA continued to rise and their hard work paid off with an average chapter GPA above both all women’s and all sorority GPA. 
  
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In February 2012 Beta Tau invited 52 girls to join our New Member Program at the completion of recruitment. In March 2012 we celebrated the initiation of all 52 girls who were given bids. At the end of the year Beta Tau was awarded Silver Cup recognition at the 2012 Syracuse University Greek Awards. We also won Sigma Alpha Epsilon's Paddy Murphy philanthropy competition, among other philanthropic titles. Over the summer nine Beta Tau chapter council members were lucky enough to attend the 69th Convention in Jacksonville, FL. In the fall semester of 2012 Beta Tau members were very involved in various philanthropies on campus as well as hosting our own, Kappa Karwash at the chapter house. Early in the fall chapter council hosted an educational program entitled Kappa Kindergarten at a chapter meeting. At the end of the semester Beta Tau members participated in many holiday sharing programs, like the Rose McGill program and local community programs. In November we set up a morning bake sale to raise funds for the relief efforts after Hurricane Sandy devastated parts of the North East.  
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The University of Wyoming continues to change and grow. A major change was the completion of the Gateway Center. Along with the continued work on the gym on campus, Half Acre, that should be completed during 2015. The changes occurring at the University of Wyoming go beyond new and renovated buildings. The University began implementing the plus/minus system. With this new grading policy came supporting and opposing arguments.
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The chapter house has also seen changes including, new beds, new furniture, new light fixtures, and new wall paper and paint. The physical changing to the house and the growing numbers have not changed the overall nature of Gamma Omicron. It continues to be a positive and supportive chapter. The women of the chapter remain loyal to one another and to the fraternity as a whole.
  
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The campus underwent many changes in the fall semester of 2012. The Syracuse University social policy changed dramatically, affecting the rules, safety, budgeting, and judicial consequences of the greek life culture. Chapters are under strict policy codes and judiciary standings are posted onto the Syracuse FASA website. Beta Tau members engaged in some push back but council members were able to reestablish a budget and provide educational programming to help members understand and adhere to the new policies.
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The Chapter of Gamma Omicron holds chapter meetings in the Chapter Room, located in the basement of the house. This is a chapter owned facility. The Gamma Omicron chapter has the privilege of owning a house that provides the opportunity for the chapter members to live together. The Kappa Kappa Gamma house for the chapter of Gamma Omicron has only been relocated once in the mid-1900s. It was moved from Grand Ave. to its current location on Sorority Row.
  
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==Highlights of 2013==
 
  
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130 years later and Beta Tau is stronger than ever! The women who call themselves Kappas at Beta Tau are strong, independent, and driven women. No adjective could describe our house in it’s entirety simply because individuality is what we pride ourselves on. Beta Tau is a home to women from not only all around the country but all around the world. With varying interests, styles, and aspirations for life, no two women are alike but they all have one thing in common; their love for Beta Tau. When you walk into 743 Comstock Avenue, you are not only walking into a gorgeous house but walking into our home; a home that is kept warm and stocked with love with the help of Beta Tau alum Sue Weber and our house chef Patty.  From Kick it with Kappa to Kappa Car Wash,  Recruitment, scholarship dinner, founders day, and weekly sisterhood events, this was the year for Beta Tau and we enjoyed every second of it! As we like to say here at Beta Tau, “What is precious is permanent, and what is permanent is Kappa”
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==Highlights of 2015==
  
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The 2013 spring semester may have been coming to a close, but Beta Tau was not ready to close it’s philanthropic efforts! Kappa Kick Ball, a Beta Tau tradition at Syracuse, took to South Campus once again for a day of fun and kickball! Syracuse weather was on our side and preparations had been made all semester to ensure the day be a success! Kappa Kick Ball was the first Beta Tau philanthropy the newest members got to experience from an internal perspective and they loved every second of it.  
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The first major event of 2015 was the appointment of a new president, Jessica Johnson. Along with the appointment of the new president the Gamma Omicron chapter also transitioned several women into a variety of officer positions. Briana Long, Kellsey Hansen, and Elizabeth Cardenas all were elected to hold Panhellenic positions.
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With spring came informal spring recruitment. The women of Gamma Omicron welcomed two new initiates, after the completion of their new member period. After a successful informal spring recruitment the chapter began planning for fall formal recruitment. After a stressful and exiting work week lead by the membership chairman Casandra Herndon and her assistant Yonne Helene the women of Gamma Omicron were well prepared for requirement. The new members were welcomed to Kappa Kappa Gamma with a welcome to the jungle themed bid day. After a thorough new member period and the guidance of the New Member Chairman, Savanah Moyte, 27 new members initiated. Initiation took place on November 14, with the guidance of the Marshel Christine Bulgrin. With the new initiates the chapter has a total of 83 initiated members.
  
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The Summer of 2013 seemed to many like an eternity as Beta Tau members were ready to get home to 743 Comstock Avenue and be reunited once again! The 2013/2014 semester went off with a hitch as Chapter meetings were full of excitement and summer story telling while preparations were in motion for our annual Kappa Car Wash!
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Gamma Omicron chapter received an award at the annual Greek Awards. Janet Anderson received an award for her dedication as an advisor for Gamma Omicron. Gamma Omicron also received the honor of being the highest raising sorority for Relay for Life
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This year, Beta Tau agreed that we wanted to do things bigger and better; the only way that Kappa’s know how to do it!
 
  
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With President Molly Birman and Philanthropy Chair at the head, Beta Tau was able to partner up with local ice cream shop Gannon’s for the 2013 Car Wash! Kappa Car Wash, as always,was a fun filled day! Although the weather did not cooperate to the fullest of it’s abilities, rain or shine Kappa’s were holding signs and washing away on Comstock Avenue hoping to raise as much as possible! All members participated, sophomores, junior’s and seniors alike! From dancing on the porch to screaming from the lawn to scrubbing cars in the back parking lot, it was not only a day dedicated to our philanthropy but a day dedicated to sisterhood!  Charging only $5 a car, Beta Tau washed over 100 cars and was able to raise over $500 in total for Reading is Fundamental.
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A focus of Gamma Omicron in the 2015 year has been academics. With the help of the vice president of academic excellence, Ciera Mendicino, the ladies of Gamma Omicron's GPA continued to rise and their hard work paid off with an average chapter GPA above both all women’s and all Fraternity and Sorority GPAs both semesters. 
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Describe the recent changes on your campus and describe the overall nature of your chapter.
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The University of Wyoming continues to change and grow. A major change was the completion of the Half Acre gym. The Gamma Omicron chapter house has also seen some changes over the year including, new carpet in the formal living room and game room. The physical changing to the house and the growing number of members have not changed the overall nature of Gamma Omicron. It continues to be a positive and supportive chapter, with a focus on sisterhood.
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'''Chapter Philanthropy''':
  
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2014’s lucky number must be 54 because RUSH brought 54 fabulous new members home to Beta Tau!
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What organization(s) has your chapter historically/traditionally raised money for, or donated hours to, in your community?
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Preparation for formal recruitment started immediately upon return to school in September. Beta Tau was not only prepared to recruit Syracuse’s best but as a house, became closer than ever during the preparation process. Meetings and practices were time consuming but efficient and in the end worth every second because
 
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PC’14 could not be more amazing!  737 girls registered for formal spring recruitment this year and although registration was lower than 2013, Beta Tau was beyond prepared and it paid off.
 
  
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First round of recruitment brought back a 100% return rate and second round, Kappa Kandyland, brought back a 99% return rate. The house was ecstatic at the results and motivated to continue the success. The second weekend began with house tours and Pref round and the success continued all the way to Syracuse’s first ever, BID NIGHT! Monday, January 27th, was the most anxious filled day of the year as actives and prospective new members alike anxiously awaited their bids! In the end, the wait was well worth it for the 54 women that have joined our family could not be more perfect.  
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Gamma Omicron was the highest raising sorority for Relay for Life. The chapter continues to raise money for Kappa Kappa Gamma's national philanthropy, Reading is fundamental, the Kappa foundation and Gamma Omicrons local philanthropy The Safe Project. Through events such as the Mr. Wyoming Pageant and a joint philanthropy event with Sigma Phi Epsilon Kappa’s Sigepic tailgate. Gamma Omicron also participated in Safe Treat, a local safe trick or treat option for children on campus. Helped at the local soup kitchen and was part of the big Event, a city community service event. Gamma Omicron's philanthropic success was headed by the philanthropy chairman Amanda Sisco.  
  
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One of the traditions that defines student life here at Syracuse University is the basketball games that make our winters a bit more enjoyable. Syracuse took on Duke for the very first time since their change to the ACC and it was a game to be remembered! The Syracuse Orange won in overtime and the Carrier Dome broke an attendance record of 35,446 people! This event creates a great opportunity for the entire house to bond as new members and actives are all in attendance! It was so special for Kappa.  
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Why did your chapter choose this organization(s) to support?
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Gamma Omicron choose to donate money to the Safe Project because their mission is to advocate for and empower survivors of stalking, intimate partner, family and sexual violence. Their education and awareness efforts are focused on prevention and improved community response. The women of Gamma Omicron believe that it is important to empower those who feel unsafe. Gamma Omicron also enjoys helping with the Big Event (a community wide service event.) because we believe that the community has supported us and given us so much that it is important to give back.
  
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Kappas are pretty and Kappas are classy but most importantly Kappas are smart and we at Beta Tau are no exception. Our GPA was not where we would have liked it at the start of the year, so Chapter Council and the entire house worked in unison during the Fall 2013 semester to not only increase our individual GPAs but increase it as an entire house. Through extra study hours, tutoring sessions we were able to help members who struggled with classes.
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==Highlights of 2016==
  
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Our internship portal grew enormously, with Kappas working for Vince Camuto, Victoria Secret, Pepsi, the Miss USA Pageant and Vantine just to name a few. These internship connections gave everyone the opportunity for fabulous internships this summer and applications have been sent out! We as Beta Taus saw our problem and changed it. We are proud to say that each and every member of our chapter helped to raise our house GPA and women who never thought they would be invited to a scholarship dinner are receiving their invites within the next month! Go Beta Tau!
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Gamma Omicron Chapter had another successful year at  the University of Wyoming. The chapter was led by President Olivia Haugh who led us to accomplish many important  things on campus and in the community. She had a strong chapter council behind her who worked very hard for the betterment of our chapter.
  
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The spring semester brought the informal recruitment period. The women of Gamma Omicron welcomed five new initiates, after the completion of their new member period. The membership chairman Madison Watson turned her attention to formal recruitment in the fall after the successful completion of spring recruitment. Madison Watson and her assistant Taylor Chaulk prepared the chapter well for recruitment with a focused and rigorous work week. The new members were welcomed to Kappa Kappa Gamma with a Paradise themed bid day. After a thorough new member period and the guidance of the New Member Chairman, Cassie Herndon, 31 new members were initiated. Initiation took place on October 22, with the guidance of the Marshal Amanda Sisco. The chapter total is 81 with the addition of another group of initiates. 
  
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==Highlights of 2015==
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A few of our honors and awards from the previous year include the convention award for risk management and Our Fraternity and Sorority Life awarded one of our own Julianna Emmet as New Member of the Year.
  
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Our Chapter, Our Home
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The Chapter put on a few major philanthropy events over the last year as well as joined in on many smaller events. The Mr. Wyoming competition was held in the spring and we donated all the money raised from this event to the Albany County Safe Project. In the spring the chapter also participated in Relay for life, the Jackalope Jump which consisted of jumping in a freezing cold pond to raise awareness for the Special Olympics and lastly, the chapter partnered with the Wyoming Honors Organization to set up an Easter egg hunt for children. In the fall we had a successful Chili Con Kappa event where we received many book donations and money to pass on to Reading is Fundamental. We also helped with Safe Treat on campus and the Big Event which was a campus wide community service project. All of these events combined helped our Philanthropy Chairman reach her goal of involvement in community events and getting us out on campus.
  
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While 2015 presented its fair share of challenges for the Beta Tau chapter, our Kappas proved yet
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Our wonderful event chairmen continued our traditional Sapphire Ball in the Spring and Barn Dance in the fall. These events are always  fun and are a great opportunity for all of us to enjoy ourselves.  
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again that we are a community of driven, united women with unmatched perseverance and pride.
 
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For the 132nd year, our active members at 743 Comstock Ave have reinforced Kappa’s legacy of
 
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being motivated, bold, fun women that inspire and encourage others around them. Our women
 
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have made 743 Comstock their homes away from home, working together to create an
 
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unmatched environment with the help of our house mom, Sue, and our amazing chef, Patty. As a
 
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chapter we have grown and flourished by not only opening our doors, but our lives to one
 
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another in the past year. The fact that it is so difficult to sum up our chapter’s women in a just
 
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few words says more about our defining qualities than anything. At Beta Tau, we are everything
 
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from athletes to beauty queens, future politicians to fashion bloggers, and world travelers to
 
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artists. We are the model in front of the camera, as well as the photographer behind. Our chapter
 
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contains a flurry of unique women, all with different passions, goals and opinions. While we
 
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differ in many ways, the one thing we all share is a confidence within our uniqueness and a smile
 
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alongside our ambition. To Beta Tau, this the precious Kappa legacy, and as we often say, “What
 
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is precious is permanent, and what is permanent is Kappa.”
 
  
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Wanna’ Play Ball?
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Our chapter goals focused on holding sisters accountable and getting everyone involved.  Our education chairman aimed to create fun and educational programs for the chapter, she organized an etiquette dinner and worked to improve communication with alumnae and officers for events such as founder's day dinner. Our house chairman focused on improving the craft room in the house.
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The University of Wyoming welcomed its first female President Laurie Nichols who is a wonderful leader and very committed to making the University a top rate program with an open environment to learn. Unfortunately, the University is currently experiencing a budget crisis which is effecting degree programs and staff. The students and facility are coming together to try to combat the crisis and come up with new ways to make the University more efficient and to save money where we can. However, Gamma Omicron is thriving and continues to uphold the highest standards. The women have a firm understanding of sisterhood and exemplify strong morals in their everyday lives.
  
−
Getting busy Kappas together right before finals week is no easy feat, but Kick it with Kappa is
+
Gamma Omicron was the highest raising sorority for Relay for Life. The chapter continues to raise money for Kappa Kappa Gamma's national philanthropy, Reading is fundamental, the Kappa foundation and Gamma Omicrons local philanthropy The Safe Project. Through events such as the Mr. Wyoming Pageant and a joint philanthropy event with Sigma Phi Epsilon Kappa’s Sigepic tailgate. Gamma Omicron also participated in Safe Treat, a local safe trick or treat option for children on campus. Helped at the local soup kitchen and was part of the big Event, a city community service event. Gamma Omicron's philanthropic success was headed by the philanthropy chairman Amanda Sisco.
−
the perfect gathering to ensure that nobody will miss out! This annual kickball tournament is a
 
−
fan favorite philanthropy for Beta Tau ladies, and year after year more and more fun is had.
 
−
Sororities, fraternities and countless other clubs and organizations across the Syracuse University
 
−
campus register kickball teams and battle for the title of Kick it With Kappa winner. The event tshirts
 
−
are highly anticipated every year by all, and this year was no exception. PR chair Liz Lille
 
−
branched out and created tops for Kappas that read, “Getting picked first since 1870,” on the
 
−
back. Clever, Liz!
 
  
−
Friendly competition is the name of the game at Kappa Kickball! Teams had more fun than ever
+
Gamma Omicron choose to donate money to the Safe Project because their mission is to advocate for and empower survivors of stalking, intimate partner, family and sexual violence. Their education and awareness efforts are focused on prevention and improved community response. The women of Gamma Omicron believe that it is important to empower those who feel unsafe. Gamma Omicron also enjoys helping with the Big Event (a community wide service event.) because we believe that the community has supported us and given us so much that it is important to give back.
−
this past year on a perfect April day at South Campus’s Skytop Field. We always seem to luck
 
−
out with the weather during our events, making them even more enjoyable for players, coaches
 
−
and spectators.
 
  
−
Our outmost goal for this event was to raise money for Reading is Fundamental, and we did just
+
==Highlights of 2017==
−
that! Along with Sunday’s kickball game, we added events throughout the week prior to extend
 
−
participation and diversify our events for Kick it With Kappa. This was a great success and we
 
−
were able to add a spelling bee, Kappa Karaoke and a Facebook cover photo contest.
 
−
Coaches and players from all different houses were given the opportunity to bond and become
 
−
closer through Kappa kickball, all while raising funds and awareness for Reading is
 
−
Fundamental. We couldn’t have asked for more.
 
  
−
Let’s Make a Splash!
+
Gamma Omicron started off the year with the appointment of the new chapter president, Savanah Richter. She accomplished many significant things within the chapter, including bringing the LeadToday workshop to the chapter. This amazing opportunity was well received by the chapter and helped to better the chapter by demonstrating how important it is to have sisterhood.
  
−
Kappa Kar Wash could not come fast enough for our women this 2015. It being our first, big
+
The start of the spring semester meant the informal recruitment period had begun. Gamma Omicron welcomed six new initiates, after the completion of their new member period. The membership chairman, Nikki Perkins, began planning formal recruitment in the fall after the successful spring recruitment. Nikki Perkins and her assistant Jordan Hardman prepared the chapter for a successful recruitment with a work week that was fun and focused. The new members were welcomed to Kappa Kappa Gamma with an 80’s themed bid day. After the new member period and with the guidance of the New Member Chairman, Katie Hasse, 34 new members were initiated. Initiation took place on November 11, with the help of the Marshal, Chantelle Runion. The chapter total is 87 with this addition of initiates.  
−
philanthropy event of the semester, the sisters were eager to get involved and make a splash.
 
−
Sophomores, juniors and seniors alike grabbed a sponge and got to work raising as much money
 
−
as we could for Reading is Fundamental this year. The morning began on a high note with the
 
−
distribution of amazing, bubble-clad Kappa Kar Wash tank tops created by our lovely PR chair,
 
−
Liz Lillie. Needless to say, they were a hit and our sisters continued to show their Kappa pride by
 
−
sporting them around campus in the weeks to follow.
 
  
−
From cars, to RVs, to even dogs and the occasional person, our sisters worked until the very last
+
Gamma Omicron put on several major philanthropy events over the past year as well as joined in on many smaller events. The Mr. Wyoming competition was held in the spring and all the money raised was to the Albany County Safe Project. In the spring, the chapter also participated in Relay for life and partnered with the Wyoming Honors Organization to set up an Easter egg hunt for children. In the fall, we had a successful Kappa Kookout event where we received many book donations and money to pass on to Reading is Fundamental. We also helped with Safe Treat on campus and the Big Event which was a campus wide community service project. All of these events combined helped our Philanthropy Chairman, Moriah Duncan, reach her goal of involvement in community events and getting us out on campus.  
−
minute attempting to raise as much as they could for the cause. Our Greek community outpoured
 
−
with support, along with other organizations and peers on campus.
 
  
−
Our President, Jessica Brosofsky, worked with our philanthropy chair, Lexi Aruk, in order to
+
Since it was Gamma Omicrons 90th anniversary, the chapter decided to host an event and invite the alumni from our chapter to attend. This large event occurred in the fall during the homecoming event at the university. Hundreds of alumni from all over the country came to support our chapter. We raised money for the new renovations taking place, in order to keep the house functioning. The entire chapter enjoyed this event because it brought active members and alumni together. Since it was such a big event, the entire chapter was to be involved to make it a success.  
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motivate and organize the chapter during the event. Such strong leadership led us to raising over
 
−
$700 for RIF, an accomplishment far surpassing previous years. After such a fun afternoon in the
 
−
sun, this achievement truly was the icing on the cake for our chapter.
 
  
−
Philanthropy
+
Our Event chairmen, Taylor Oates, continued our traditional Sapphire Ball in the Spring and Barn Dance in the fall. These events are a fun way to get to know our sisters and are a great opportunity for all of us to enjoy ourselves.
  
−
In 2015, Kappas proved that involvement is essential within our support of various
+
Gamma Omicron continues to raise money for Kappa Kappa Gamma's national philanthropy, Reading is Fundamental, the Kappa foundation and our local philanthropy, The Safe Project. Through events such as the Mr. Wyoming Pageant and the Kappa Kookout. Gamma Omicron also participated in Safe Treat, a local, safe trick or treating option for small children on campus. Participated in the Big Event, a city community service event.  
−
philanthropies on campus. Involvement hasn’t always been a main focus in our Beta Tau history,
 
−
so we saw this 2015 as an opportunity to truly step up and show not only the Syracuse campus,
 
−
but to show ourselves what it means to be a conscious, caring Kappa.
 
  
−
We were proud to start the year off with a bang by winning Sigma Alpha Epsilon’s Paddy
+
Gamma Omicron choose to donate money to the Safe Project because their mission is to advocate for and empower survivors of stalking, intimate partner, family and sexual violence. Their education and awareness efforts are focused on prevention and improved community response. The women of Gamma Omicron believe that it is important to empower those who feel unsafe. Gamma Omicron also enjoys helping with the Big Event (a community wide service event.) because we believe that the community has supported us and given us so much that it is important to give back.
−
Murphy Week. Kappa showed unmatched fervor for the cause as we applied our driven,
 
−
confident nature to a greater cause. We continued our involvement by placing a close second at
 
−
Sigma Chi’s Derby Days, with the hopes of finally taking the crown in the year to follow. Win or
 
−
lose, our sisters kept the overall purpose of charity in mind by providing massive audiences and
 
−
donations to these causes. We are proud to say that we are moving in the right direction in terms
 
−
of philanthropy involvement.
 
  
−
We were also excited to participate with Kappa Alpha Theta for our Kite and Key philanthropy
+
==Highlights of 2018==
−
event. The Greek community joined our chapter in viewing a football game together on a large
 
−
outdoor screen while enjoying tasty hamburgers and hotdogs. We were so proud to continue
 
−
raising money for RIF and loved getting the opportunity to partner with another sorority on
 
−
campus for a greater cause. Beta Tau saw this as a proud moment of camaraderie across the
 
−
Greek community and can’t wait to do it again.
 
  
−
Welcome Home!
+
2018 started off with the installation of our new chapter officers. Shelby Bell finished up her term as ASUW Liaison and Savannah Rutsch was elected as the Panhellenic Vice President of Programming. Spring Recruitment brought us eight new members. In April, Gamma Omicron hosted its 14th annual Mr. Wyoming spring philanthropy. One of our sisters was selected as the Emerging Leader of the Year at the Fraternity and Sorority Life Awards.  Gamma Omicron also won Sigma Chi Derby Days this year.
  
−
This year, Beta Tau was lucky enough to welcome a larger-than-normal pledge class of 70 new
+
The first large event after returning from summer was Fall Recruitment where the chapter welcomed 35 new members. We also tried a new Fall philanthropy: Kappa Karnival where we had carnival games, snacks and raffles.
−
members. Preparation for formal recruitment began immediately upon re-arrival to SU, and it’s
 
−
safe to say every second of practice paid off.
 
  
−
Not only did we come out on top as far as our new members, but countless recruitment practices
+
Our campus welcomed a new fraternity, Alpha Sigma Phi, and a new sorority, Alpha Phi, will come to campus in the next year. Fraternity and Sorority Life has been working hard to increase the number of Greek Life members. The old Pi Beta Phi chapter house is also being remodeled in order to be used by an active fraternity or sorority.
−
and ritual reviews brought our house closer than previous years. Embracing tradition and
 
−
working together to ensure success during recruitment was a success in itself.
 
−
With over 1,000 girls registered for formal Spring recruitment, we were nervous for the size of
 
−
the parties and length of the days, but we were able to sift out the best of the best, and we even
 
−
learned so much about the intelligent women who ended up elsewhere, strengthening our
 
−
relationships with those outside of our house and teaching them exactly what we’re all about.
 
−
Go Greek, Kappa Kandyland, house tours and preference rounds were all executed flawlessly
 
−
and displayed our love and compassion for Beta Tau. From creating the recruitment video to
 
−
spending countless hours setting up our colorful Kandyland decorations, new friendships were
 
−
formed amongst members and we were all about to bond over something we had in common:
 
−
wanting the best for our house to keep up an impressive legacy. As we are now around the corner
 
−
from Recruitment 2016, we aim to keep these values strong and mimic last years success once
 
−
again.
 
  
−
Feeling a Little Blue (& Blue)
+
Gamma Omicron supports the Albany County Safe Project as its philanthropy. We believe supporting this organization is a great opportunity.
  
−
2015 presented unexpected challenges for our chapter upon the arrival of our new member class.
 
−
To the chapter’s dismay, Beta Tau was accused of hazing allegations that lead to a daunting
 
−
investigation. Unfortunately, we were placed on probation in February of 2015 with additional
 
−
steps being taken to remove a handful of officers from their positions. With a black smudge on
 
−
our reputation and the removal of trusted leaders, our women were tested more than ever before.
 
−
While the original sadness regarding the unfortunate incident was unavoidable, our chapter was
 
−
quick to get back on our feet and make the best of the situation. We accepted our previous
 
−
imperfections and vowed to move forward and learn from past mistakes. We completely revised
 
−
our new member process and urged the chapter to exemplify true Kappa values by participating
 
−
in philanthropies and getting involved on campus. While the experience was harrowing, Beta Tau
 
−
came out more unified than ever with fresh goals and revitalized outlook on what it means to be
 
−
Kappa. The unity, love and strength that this challenge brought out of our chapter prove why
 
−
each and every member belong at 743. While we know no such mistakes will be made in the
 
−
future, Beta Tau is grateful for the revitalization of Kappa values and stronger sense of unity that
 
−
this turmoil invoked.
 
  
−
Kappativities!
+
==Highlights of 2019==
  
−
This 2015, our women presented a variety of accomplishments and activities outside of the
+
2019 started with installation of new chapter officers and the election of Shelby Bell as the Panhellenic Vice President of Standards. In February over 20 women participated in the Jackalope Jump benefitting Special Olympics. In one week we raised $3000 and our team won the award for the most money raised by a group at the event. During spring recruitment we recruited four new members and in April we initiated five women. In the beginning of April we participated in Greek Week and won two events and placed third overall. Also in April we held a very successful Mr. Wyoming event, raising $6656, the most we've raised in several years. In May we had nine seniors become alumnae.
−
Greek community. Alumni Allie Curtis won the title of Miss Rhode Island and graced us with a
 
−
visit for our Fall Formal event. While her beauty and eloquence were striking, it was her friendly
 
−
smile and warm introductions that truly proved her a Beta Tau Kappa at heart. Our President,
 
−
Jessica Brosofsky followed in Allie’s footsteps by winning the title of Miss Onondaga County
 
−
2015 and Miss Erie Canal for the upcoming 2016 year. Our women also participated in the
 
−
famed Syracuse Dance Team, Syracuse’s rowing team, and various other activities on campus
 
−
like Ottothon and the candlelight vigil for France. Our very own Zoe Malliaros also impressively
 
−
landed an internship with Diane von Furtsenberg!
 
  
−
Beta Tau was also proud to have had an official partnership with Be Wise in the Fall! Led by
+
Our chapter was very successful in fall recruitment, welcoming 32 new members. In October we celebrated Wyoming's Homecoming and participated in Homecoming Sing and the campus parade. We welcomed our alumnae to our annual Alumnae Chili event and were able to give house tours. At the end of October we held our first Wingin' It with Kappa event and raised $3347. Our philanthropy chairman, Katie Kelley, was incredibly successful in 2019.
−
junior Eva Narun, sisters gave out promotional, Be Wise materials that promoted alcohol
 
−
awareness and smart drinking habits. Beta Tau was excited and proud to be involved with such a
 
−
important program on campus. Our chapter council and other sisters also participated in the
 
−
Enough is Enough training program. Our leaders learned about important tools, resources, and
 
−
prevention methods regarding sexual assault on campus. The experience was extremely valuable
 
−
and I was touched to see our women overwhelmingly participatory in the training. Our council
 
−
feels prepared to share the valuable information we learned with the rest of the chapter, and feel
 
−
confident in our ability to act as a resource to the rest of the chapter.
 
  
−
This 2015, Beta Tau has been more actively involved and passionate than ever before. We are
+
Gamma Omicron supports the Albany County Safe Project because their mission is to advocate for and empower survivors of stalking, intimate partner, family and sexual violence. This year we were also able to participate in their Take Back the Night event. Safe Project has made a huge difference in our community and we feel lucky to have been able to support them for multiple years.
−
proud to prove that Kappas truly are hardworking, passionate individuals in every aspect of our
 
−
lives.
 
  
−
==Highlights of 2020s:==
+
==Highlights of 2020==
  
−
Information from chapter’s History Report: (Scholarship, group honors/awards, traditions, special events, changes on campus or within chapter, overall nature of the chapter, chapter goals, challenges and how they were overcome, etc.)
+
In the spring our chapter had many things planned that were affected by COVID. We planned on having formal, Mr. Wyoming (our philanthropy event), initiation, and many more events. Everything got cancelled when we all went home for spring break and never returned until the fall. However before we went home for spring break we participated in Panhellenic book club and a social with SigEp on March 7th. In spring 2020 we were supposed to have Greek Week but it sadly got cancelled. We still received the Outstanding Community Service award for book buddies, Outstanding Philanthropic endeavor award for Mr.Wyoming, and the Impact award for Mr.Wyoming. Upon the return of our members in the fall our Chapter Council had to figure out how to hold safe events and meetings due to COVID. We settled on having meetings on Zoom and having hybrid committees and events. Our work week was held virtually from August 16th-21st on Zoom. This was a big change from normal where we are normally in person. We also practiced what recruitment would look like if it was held virtually. Our recruitment was held virtually after many changes to the original hybrid in person plan. Recruitment was held on September 10th-13th. We utilized break rooms to have one on one conversations with PNM’s. We had bid day on September 14th which was held virtually on Zoom. We once again utilized break rooms for active members to meet the new members. Formal Pledging was held on September 21st on Zoom. Just like in the spring our members participated in Panhellenic Book Club. Our chapter decided to do a philanthropic t-shirt drive for Albany County SAFE project. Big-Little Reveal was on October 20th for our new members. We had Initiation from November 4th - 7th. All of our Initiation events were held on Zoom.
  
 +
Our chapter supports our Fraternity philanthropy, Reading is Fundamental. We also support our local philanthropy, Albany County SAFE project. We also do book buddies with our local schools.
 +
We love working with Albany County SAFE project because they have a great message. They help with domestic violence, stalking, sexual assault, etc. We also love participating in book buddies with our local schools because it involves our chapter with more reading events.
  
−
'''Housing:'''
+
During work week we spent half a day talking about diversity, equity, and inclusion. We had a presentation and discussion about what diversity, equity, and inclusion are. We talked about how we would include and be conscious of how to include DEI in recruitment and other chapter events.
  
 +
Our chapter celebrated Kappa’s 150th anniversary with the Founder’s Day Ceremony. We also watched the Facebook live celebration that was held by the Fraternity. Our kitchen also made special blue cupcakes to celebrate the 150 years!
  
 +
==Highlights of 2021==
 +
-----
  
−
'''Philanthropy:'''
+
For the 2021-year Gamma Omicron accomplished some wonderful things. In the year of 2021, we welcomed 21 new members into our chapter. We also won our local Derby Days competition and we won FSL feud for our Greek Week competition! We also had at least two members on our Panhellenic Council as well as four members who were assigned as Recruitment Counselors in 2021. We also had one member on our Fraternal Standards Board as well as two members who were in the Mortar Board. One of the goals we had in 2021 was to improve our sisterhood even though we weren’t always in the same place due to covid-19 which is something we did accomplish. We held our first Barn Dance and Senior Activity since covid began and both went really well. We held many fun socials such as our pumpkin carving sisterhood or the cookie decorating. Our FSL community also held our annual Jingle Mingle event in-person since covid began as well.
  
 +
We support the Albany County Safe Project as our local philanthropy because our chapter really appreciates the help they give the community and how they help people in general. We also really think that helping people in need is extremely important and having the resources they provide is super important especially since they help support people on the University of Wyoming Campus as well. We also raised/donated $10,350.23 for the Albany County Safe Project in 2021. We also support our local Veterans community. We support them because we want them to know that they are loved and appreciated, and that people do care about/for them. Gamma Omicron supported them by making them holiday cards for them, Christmas/winter holiday, valentines, Halloween, etc. We also had a totally of 704 hours of service hours for a variety of local philanthropies that members in our chapter completed.
  
 +
This year we raised $4,228.49 for our Kappa philanthropy by hosting our Kappa Cookout event. We also did some mental health awareness tabling. For this we tabled and talked to
 +
community members about mental health and asked them to sign a pledge to support mental health. We also had information about mental health statistics, and we gave out
 +
stickers that said “mental health matters”.
  
−
'''Chapter Convention Awards:'''
+
We added a DEI officer in the fall of 2021. We also really talked about and discussed DEI during our work week. We also had a Bias training in the spring of 2021.
  
 +
In the 2021-year Covid-19 changed a lot of our chapter functions. At the start of 2021 we held almost every single event online. We changed all of our meetings to be held on zoom
 +
and practically all paperwork that had been done by hand on paper was now done online. We held zoom ritual reviews where we learned our ritual and chaotically sung over zoom. We
 +
also held virtual initiations that looked very different than what we do in person but that still went well. Due to having Chapter meetings online we started having themed meeting where
 +
we would dress up as a specific theme. Those were really fun. We also held a few socials online with other chapters as well as a few online sisterhoods.
  
 +
As we transitioned into the fall school semester we have transitioned back into in-person meetings, ritual reviews, initiation, fundraisers, and events while still taking precautions
 +
against Covid-19, such as mask-wearing and social distancing, and making online options for members who are sick. This fall specifically we were able to do move-in in-person.
  
 +
==Highlights of 2022==
  
−
-------------------------------
+
'''Note to Chapter Registrar:'''
−
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.  
 
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!
 
Your efforts will ensure a complete and accurate history of your chapter for future generations to enjoy!

Latest revision as of 14:08, 2 February 2022

 

Gamma Omicron
ΓO
Gamma Omicron.jpg
FoundedFebruary 25, 1927 (1927-02-25) (99 years ago)
CollegeUniversity of Wyoming
LocationLaramie, WY
HomepageGamma Omicron Homepage
Media related to Gamma Omicron Chapter

University of Wyoming, established in 1886 in Laramie, Wyoming


Gamma Omicron founded February 25, 1927


2,097 initiates (as of June 2018)


Charter Members: Bess Bell Burris, France Elise Hays, Lillian Helsberg Hubbard, Patricia Lynch Jensen, Marie Mathew, Margaret Matilda Moudy, Eileen Elizabeth O'Mara, Kathleen McLaughlin O'Mara, Patricia Molly O'Mara, Ruth Prout, Catherine Helen Shicora, Doris Villers Spencer, Oselia Louise Stendahl, Etta Winnona Weaver, Auril Carmen Williams.


Fraternity Council Members:

Collett Beers Rangitsch, Director of Chapters, 2010-2014; Director of Standards 2014-2016


Fraternity Loyalty Award Recipients:



Fraternity Alumnae Achievement Award Recipients:

Margaret McIntosh Boice, 1964, Humanitarian and civic leader who worked to establish juvenile and domestic relations court in Wyoming; Margaret Simson Curry, 1964, Author, journalist, poet; M. Margaret McKeown, 2000, Ninth Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals judge;


Additional Outstanding Gamma Omicron Alumnae:

Donna Waite (Brosn, Graduate Counselor 1977-1979; Ann Osborn (Chopich), Graduate Counselor 1977-1979;

Heather Blockovich (Belt), Leadership Consultant, 2005-2006 Sara Rangitsch, Leadership Consultant, 2015-2016

The Early Years (from The History of Kappa Kappa Gamma 1870-1976)[edit]

The University of Wyoming, founded in 1886, four years before Wyoming was admitted to statehood, is unique in that it is the state’s only four-year university.

Wyoming was the first state to give women the right to vote, the first to have a female governor, many of the university’s first students were women, and Wyoming women and female students then and now have been outstanding leaders in their fields.

On November 9, 1920, Gamma Zeta, a local group, was established on campus with the hope from the beginning of becoming a Kappa chapter, living up to all of Kappa’s standards, and observing Panhellenic regulations. A strong and active organization was developed, entering every phase of university life and twice winning the Panhellenic scholarship cup. A strong supporter was Anna Broady Haggard, Nebraska, a member of the university’s board of trustees. Patroness Frances Longan Arnold, Missouri, gave much support and interest. Kappa alumnae from Cheyenne, Wyoming and Denver, Colorado were much involved in spite of the great distances between them and Laramie.

In 1926, Georgia Hayden Lloyd-Jones, Wisconsin, then Fraternity Director of Provinces and Chairman of Extension, visited Gamma Zeta and liked what she saw. That summer at the General Convention, permission was given for a formal petition. The petition was favorably received and on February 25, 1927, Gamma Omicron Chapter was installed. Mrs. Lloyd Jones, by then Fraternity President, was the installing officer. Representatives of Beta Mu Chapter at Colorado University assisted. Members from Sigma Chapter at the University of Nebraska were also present. There was an initiation of the charter members and of Gamma Zeta alumnae who held degrees from the university. There was a formal banquet and a breakfast given by the other women’s fraternities in honor of Gamma Omicron.


Housing

In 1924 Gamma Zeta had purchased a house at 605 Grand Avenue in Laramie. The present house, located at 1604 E. Sorority Row, was built in 1940 to house 34 members although a few more could be squeezed in. In 1963, girls returning after summer vacation were greeted by a fine addition containing a larger dining room and kitchen, a large study and chapter room, three new bedrooms, bath and laundry room. The “old” part of the house had been redecorated and Gamma Omicron had the house on Fraternity Row.


Campus Honors

In 1973-74, Gamma Omicron was first in scholarship among the Greek houses, with the highest average ever recorded for an active chapter on the Wyoming campus. That year, six out of 21 Mortar Board members were Kappas, there were two Phi Beta Kappas and three Phi Kappa Phis. Spring of 1974 saw 16 Gamma Omicrons as graduating seniors, the highest percentage of a pledge class to graduate in the chapter’s history.

That same year, Panhellenic had offered a new All Greek House Award based on points for girls receiving honors, chosen as queens, for scholarship, leadership and service to the community and university, and general campus participation. Gamma Omicron was proud to be the first to win this new award. Through the years, many campus and chapter leaders have gone on to national recognition. Gamma Omicron has claimed three Miss Wyoming pageant winners who have placed in the top 10 in the Miss America finals, and one runner-up. Karen Morris (Gowdy) reigned as American’s Junior Miss 1974-75. Margaret Simson (Curry) was a member of the journalism honoraries while in school and wrote for and edited campus publications. She was an instructor in creative writing at Casper College and published articles, poetry, short stories, novels, and children’s books.

Just as the women of Wyoming were the first to vote, so were the Kappas of Gamma Omicron leaders in other matters. When the famous contralto Marian Anderson came to the university for a scheduled concert, none of the local hotels would give her lodging. The Kappas were proud to have her as their honored guest. Gamma Omicron was the first NPC chapter on campus to sponsor a foreign student. Elizabeth Scott, an exchange student from London, stayed at the house during 1950-51. Sally Shotgun, an Indian student, lived at the house in 1957-58 and added much to the chapter although she was not a member.


The World War II Years and Beyond[edit]

The World War II years were interesting for Gamma Omicron as well as sad. The large chapter became very close and family-like due to the lack of social life. In 1946, the Kappa spring dinner-dance was held for the first time in four years. Spring 1949 saw a 100% initiation of a pledge class – a first for Gamma Omicron. Like so many other Greek groups, Gamma Omicron hit a low spot between 1965 and 1970. It was a hard fight to remain afloat, but with third-generation Gamma Omicrons coming to a larger and better university, and outstanding Wyoming women becoming Kappas, the chapter was poised to continue its leadership on campus.

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[edit]

Gamma Omicron was pleased to celebrate its 50th anniversary as part of the University of Wyoming campus by giving two $300 scholarships. In addition, philanthropy continued to be a big part of the chapter’s tradition. The chapter collected money for the Wyoming Multiple Sclerosis Society and by holding a Read-a-thon and Walk-a-thon for the four elementary schools in the area.

Homecoming was an important part of the University’s fall calendar. Throughout the seventies, the Kappas were often a part of the Homecoming Court and won awards for their floats. In the ten years between 1975 and 1985 the Gamma Omicrons took first place four times in the annual Homecoming Sing.

In 1975 and 1976 Gamma Omicron received awards for achievement in Panhellenic and Gracious Living.


Highlights of the 1980s[edit]

During the early 1980’s Wyoming experienced a “boom period” where high energy prices boosted the state’s coal, oil, and natural gas industries. Unfortunately, the economic boom was short lived. By the mid 1980’s energy prices were falling and the economy was hurt by its lack of diversity. Thankfully, tourism did see a surge in popularity.

Gamma Omicron’s challenge during this time was to dispel the myths of fraternity life. The members worked hard on their reputation on campus and in the community by doing multiple community service projects, instilling values regarding members’ behavior at social functions and promoting interests and friendships outside of Kappa.

Throughout the decade the chapter was pleased to receive awards for outstanding academic achievement and public relations.


Highlights of 2000-2010[edit]

By the beginning of the new millennium, the University of Wyoming had a student population of approximately 13,000 with about 4% of the campus population involved in the Greek community.

Gamma Omicron took on several challenges throughout this decade. They felt it was necessary for the chapter to understand the role of Panhellenic on their campus. As a result of this increased understanding, several members served on the Panhellenic Council in a variety of positions. Next, the chapter concentrated on developing their relations with their alumnae. It was particularly rewarding for the chapter when they were able to celebrate Gamma Omicron’s 80th anniversary with one of the chapter’s founders. Finally, the chapter also worked to enforce its attendance policies while limiting the number of events in which the chapter would be involved. This resulted in better chapter participation.


Philanthropy

Philanthropy continued to be a strong suit for Gamma Omicron. The chapter continued to organize its Mr. Wyoming pageant for the benefit of the Red Cross. Wing Fling (a buffalo wing dinner), an AIDS Walk, and a Holly’s House Silent Auction. Numerous community service hours were also contributed to Safe Treat (a Halloween trick-or-treat event), the local elementary schools and other various community organizations.

Gamma Omicron continued to receive many Greek Week awards and their members were recognized for their service to the University and the community. At the 2008 Kappa Convention, the chapter received the Housed Gracious Living Award and honorable mentions for the Most Improved Chapter, Academic Excellence and Finance. At the 2010 Kappa Convention, Gamma Omicron received recognition for its New Member Program and honorable mentions for Gracious Living, Heritage, Standards and Panhellenic.


Highlights of 2012[edit]

The Spring 2012 semester started off with officer transitions, and Samantha Gimelli was appointed as the new president of the Gamma Omicron chapter. The newly installed officers worked diligently with one another to ensure that the chapter was operating at it's highest possible potential and efficiency.

After installing a wonderful team of new officers, 3 new members were added to the chapter through Spring recruitment. All 3 of these women became initiated members after learning about the history of Kappa Kappa Gamma and their chapter through a very informative New Member Program in the Spring. After a wonderful Formal Recruitment in the fall, the chapter welcomed 22 new members on the most patriotic Bid Day yet! The theme for the Fall 2012 bid day was Kappa Olympics, and the girls got to know their new sisters while participating in fun team games. After completing a New Member Program and all the necessary components, 20 of those new members were initiated on November 10, 2012.

In June, the Gamma Omicron chapter was represented by 5 of our lovely members when they attended National Convention in Jacksonville, Florida, where we received an award for our Ritual, and also an honorable mention for our Standards. In addition to those awards, the chapter also received the Sisterhood award at the All Greek Awards.

Multiple women represented the chapter in a variety of Greek life activities. In 2012, our chapter had 5 women serve in Panhellinic. Katie Cook was the programming chair, Molly Stevens was our delegate, Hayley Czarnecki was the public relations chair, Lauren Robertson was the Executive Vice President of Panhellinic, and Rachael Carlsgaard held the position of Panhellinic President. In addition to the chapter's Panhellinic involvement, the chapter had 6 members serve as recruitment leaders for Fall 2012 Sorority recruiment.

Scholarship is always important to the members of Gamma Omicron. There are a large portion of women in the chapter who represent Kappa Kappa Gamma in various Honor Societies at the University of Wyoming. At the end of the Spring semester, the chapter ended at a 2.98 average grade point average, which was just shy of the all women's average of 3.1, and the Sorority average of 3.13. Being so close to success served as motivation for our chapter to set its goals higher in the Fall, with a goal grade point average of 3.55.

In addition to scholarship, the chapter also focused on giving back to our local and national philanthropies. In the Spring, the philanthropy chairman organized our annual Wing Fling. We were able to raise $1,100 for our philanthropic partner, Reading is Fundamental and the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation. On Halloween, the women of the chapter dressed up in their favorite costumes, and participated in an event called Safe Treat, where they created a safe and fun experience for children who wanted to trick-or-treat. In the Fall, our philanthropy chairman got the entire chapter involved in planning the Mr. Wyoming pageant. It was a hilarious experience watching the men perform their best talents, answer insightful questions, and dress up in their fanciest evening wear. The pageant also raised $4,295.18 through ticket sales and donations for our local philanthropy, the Albany Red Cross. Members of the chapter are also involved in various service organizations, and participate in service projects. For example, some women participated in cleaning up the campus, others volunteered to ring the bell for the Salvation Army, and other women are involved in Relay for Life.

After working hard, the chapter celebrated with social events. The chapter's Event Chairman planned the annual Sapphire Ball. It was an awesome opportunity for the women to dress up, take pictures, and to bond with their sisters and their dates. Once everyone returned to school for the fall, the chapter celebrated with their annual Barn Dance. The girls and their dates donned their best country-themed attire, and everyone boarded one of two chartered busses to Cheyenne where we had Barn Dance at the Terry Bison Ranch. The officers and alumnae involved worked together to make sure that we were safe, that the event ran smoothly, and that everyone had a good time. The members of the chapter love to get together and dance and sing. The music chairman and the ladies of the Gamma Omicron chapter choreographed a dance for the Greek Week Talent show, and in the fall, the women showed their Wyoming Poke Pride by performing their own original song and dance at the Homecoming sing. The ladies of Kappa Kappa Gamma took initiative and built a Homecoming float that they then rode on in the parade, while singing songs, and passing out candy.

This year was a great one for the Gamma Omicron chapter, but it did not come without challenges. The biggest challenge the chapter faced as a whole was the closing of the kitchen. Due to insurance and safety reasons, it was decided that the kitchen was to be closed. Prior to this decision, women were allowed to walk freely in and out of the kitchen, and to use to the stove and oven to cook for themselves. With the new rule, only staff were allowed within the kitchen. This was quite the adjustment for many of the members, but everyone cooperated and followed the new rules. It was a challenge because the chapter requires the use of the kitchen for certain events during the year, the members were not always able to access the leftovers, and many women had to find other arrangements for eating if they were used to preparing some of their own meals. After much thought and consideration, our House Board was able to work with Nationals to re-open the kitchen under very specific conditions. Since the members of the house are not trained to use commericial-grade cooking appliances, we are unable to use the stove or oven. However, we are able to be present in the kitchen during certain hours, able to access leftovers, and to use appliances for specific events under supervision. This was the biggest challenge for the chapter in 2012, but it was able to resolved

The University of Wyoming is constantly making changes to the campus, and in 2012, the campus underwent construction. Specifically, the University added landscaping in front of the Education building.

The overall nature of the chapter is supportive, honest, loyal, and fun. There are always women around to listen and with suggestions when someone is having a rough day. The women of the chapter support one another, are looking out for each other's best interests, and are loyal. We always have the best time at our social events, philanthropy events, and in everything we do together. The women of the chapter encourage one another to succeed and to reach their fullest potential. Members of the Gamma Omicron chapter are hilarious, interesting, and exquisite women, who appreciate one other and the bond of sisterhood. It's an honor to be a Kappa Kappa Gamma, and an honor to be a part of the Gamma Omicron Chapter.

Highlights of 2013[edit]

The past 2013 year has been another great year for Gamma Omicron chapter. The Spring semester started out by appointing Ms. Lora Waeckerle as the chapter’s president along with her new officers that would be serving on Chapter Council. The newly transitioned officers took pride in their leadership positions and were very enthusiastic with new ideas they could bring to the chapter.

Along with the gaining new women in leadership roles, the chapter also gained 6 New Members through an informal Spring recruitment. All 6 of these women were initiated after completing their New Member period and learning about the history and values of Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity. After a diligent and successful work week before the new school year started, the chapter was fully prepared and optimistic for Fall Formal Recruitment. Their optimism prevailed and 36 new members were welcomed into Gamma Omicron chapter with a Vegas themed Bid Day. Feeling very “lucky”, not only to have new women joining the chapter and “lucky to be a KKG”, the women played fun Vegas gambling games, took pictures in the photo booth and hit the wedding chapel in celebration. Of these 36 women, 35 were pledged and officially recognized as New Members. The chapter was very excited as this was the biggest pledge class Gamma Omicron has had in a long time. After completing a well-organized New Member Program put on by the New Member Chairman, Katy Zahorik, and fulfilling the requirements for a New Member, 31 of these women were initiated on November 9, 2013.

Throughout the year our chapter and individuals within the chapter received awards and held positions on Panhellenic council. In April, our Greek community held the Greek Week Awards where chapters were given awards based on results from our annual Greek Week and awards that were voted individually by each chapter. Gamma Omicron as a chapter was awarded the Most Community Service award and the Greek Adviser award. Mary Gokanakonda did the chapter proud and was awarded the New Member of the Year award.

Two of our members served on Panhellenic Council: Lauren Robertson was Panhellenic President and Carolyn Hammersmark served as programming chair. Two of our members also were selected to serve as recruitment leaders for the Fall 2013 Sorority Recruitment. Even though we did not have much representation on the Panhellenic Council, the chapter fulfilled one of our chapter goals of becoming more involved in the Panhellenic community by attending events and philanthropies put on by other chapters and attended Panhellenic meetings weekly. Members of the chapter also attended and represented Gamma Omicron at the Eta Province in Boulder, Colorado where we were awarded Outstanding Communication, Fraternity Education and Ritual, and House Board Excellence and honorable mention for Panhellenic and Campus Involvement.

With Philanthropy being one of our four pillars, Gamma Omicron was very dedicated and successful in fundraising for our philanthropies and Natalie Basolo, our Philanthropy Chairman, was more than prepared to make this happen. In March we hosted our annual Wing Fling fundraiser which raised $1650 to be divided equally between Reading is Fundamental, the Kappa Gamma Foundation and our Relay for Life team. Along with Wing Fling, our philanthropy chairman organized our chapter to participate as a team in the university’s Relay for Life. The chapter raised $1600 (which included the $550 from Wing Fling) after a long night of walking and fundraising for a great cause.

We were awarded the Highest Fundraising Sorority and Greek Chapter from Relay for Life which was a great achievement for our first year with outstanding participation from the chapter. In the fall, the chapter decided to make a change and move our annual Mr. Wyoming Pageant to the upcoming spring semester and held our first annual Kappa Con Chili fundraiser. At this event we charged a small fee for guests to enjoy all you can eat chili and cornbread. This was an adjustment period for Gamma Omicron but we are excited for the hopeful success this event will hold in the future. The chapter raised a total of $600 again to be divided between Reading is Fundamental, the foundation and Relay for Life. Along with our two main fundraisers, the chapter participated in other philanthropic events on campus and in the community such as Safe Treat on Halloween, serving at the soup kitchen, participating in Campus Clean Up, and many others.

After all of the hard work put into our philanthropies our Event Chairman, Secia Porreco, awarded everyone with fun and exciting events throughout the year. In March, we had our annual Sapphire Ball which was held at the Hilton Garden Inn here in Laramie. Although Wyoming weather isn’t always the warmest, it agreed with us that night as we walked to the Hilton, chanting our Kappa songs and showing our pride with our dates in arm. In April women of the chapter competed in Greek week activities and took 2nd place in the large group talent competition performing an upbeat dance choreographed by our music chair, Savannah Moyte. In all the events the ladies of Gamma Omicron represented Kappa Gamma with great sportsmanship and class.

The major events for the fall came with Homecoming Week where we were paired with the gentlemen of Pi Kappa Alpha. Secia planned a week filled with events to get to know the men and build our pirate ship Homecoming float. Again, the Wyoming weather cooperated with us and we rode and walked in the parade while passing out candy and chanting songs with pride on the ship before the football game. A couple weeks later we had our annual Barn Dance. The girls put on their jeans or dresses and cowboy boots to showcase their inner cowgirl. The event was held at the Hilton and was filled with delicious food, great music to swing dance to and a good time.

As always, our academics are very important to us and always is a main focus. However, this past year it was one of our greater challenges that we had to overcome. With not being ranked as high as we would have liked on our GPA among the other chapters, Gamma Omicron was given an Academic Focus Plan. This plan required every member to complete a mandatory 5 study hours per week with supervision of our Vice President of Academic Excellence, Sami Gimelli, and her committee. Although this plan was a dramatic change for the chapter, the women worked together and motivated one another to improve our academics. The focus plan has helped improve the chapter’s GPA and we are very optimistic about continuing our academic improvement.

The University has made some changes in the past year both administrational and architectural. After his 35 years at the university with eight of those years as the president, Tom Buchanan retired from his office at the end of summer of 2013. The University of Wyoming hired Bob Sternberg to fulfill the position as president in July. However, Sternberg’s office was short-lived, resigning from office in November. Dick McGinity then served as the interim president for the remainder of the year.

The university is also undergoing major construction to different aspects of the campus. There are three major construction projects that impact the student body. They are currently making renovations and additions to the Half Acre Recreational Gym, renovation and expansion to the Buchanan Center for the Performing Arts, and currently building a brand new welcome center called the Marian H. Rochelle Gateway Center. Students are eager for the completion of these new additions and renovations. Even though the campus is making many additions, the university lost one of their chartered chapters this past year. Our Monmouth sisters of Pi Beta Phi are no longer a chapter on campus. Although the Greek community was very saddened by this, we are all hoping to increase our membership numbers and hopefully bring their chapter back in the near future.

Our chapter has also had changes to our house management and our physical appearance. Our house board hired a new house director, Ms. Clare Graziano. She has brought great ideas to the house and has been very efficient in her position. She recently discovered there were hard wood floors under the carpet on our staircase and front hall way so they were refurnished and are a great addition to the house. Because we are limited by our budget and lack of membership, there is not enough money to support any other major changes to the house at this time.

The overall nature of Gamma Omicron chapter is growing in more ways than one. Throughout the past year our chapter has grown in numbers, in our bonds of sisterhood, and through our challenges that we have faced as a chapter. Our chapter nature is very positive and we are very supportive of one another in all that we do. The chapter also remains very loyal and honest to one another and to the fraternity.

Highlights of 2014[edit]

The first major event of 2014 was the appointment of a new president, Mary Gokanakonda. Along with the appointment of the new president the Gamma Omicron chapter also transitioned several new women into the variety of officer positions. Briana Long and Oliva Haugh also both held panhellinic positions.

With spring came informal spring recruitment. The women of Gamma Omicron welcomed seven new initiates, after the completion of their new member period. After a successful informal spring recruitment the chapter began thinking about fall formal recruitment. After a stressful and exiting work week the women of Gamma Omicron were prepared for requirement week. The planning and preparation were well worth it when the chapter pledged 27 new members. The new members were welcomed with a kappily ever after themed bid day. After a thorough new member period and the guidance of the New Member Chairmen, Alex Jelly, and initiation took place on November 15 conducted by the marshal Traci Folkman. With the new initiates the chapter has a total of 94 initiated members.

The Gamma Omicron chapter also received awards at the annual Greek Awards. The chapter received the risk management award for its dedication to safety and the perseverance of the risk management chairman Taylor Chaulk. Gamma Omicron also received the honor of being the highest raising sorority for Relay for Life. The chapter continues to raise money for Kappa Kappa Gamma's national philanthropy, Reading is fundamental, the Kappa foundation and Gamma Omicrons local philanthropy the Red Cross of Albany County. Through events such as the Mr. Wyoming Pageant and Chili con Kappa. Gamma Omicron also participated in Safe Treat, helped at the local soup kitchen and was part of the big Event, a city wide clean up event. Gamma Omicron's philanthropic success was headed by the philanthropy chairman Savanah Moyte.

The women of Gamma Omicron also had the opportunity to participate in social events, coordinated by the event chairmen, Taylor Campbell in the spring and Molly Duncan in the fall. Some of the events that were organized were the spring formal and the annual fall barn dance. The women of Gamma Omicron also involved in Greek Week, paired with Pi Kappa Phi and Homecoming week, with Sigma Phi Epsilon. Winning the women's division for homecoming sing.

A focus of Gamma Omicron in the 2014 year has been academics. With the help of the vice president of academic excellence, Alyssa Huckins, the ladies of Gamma Omicron's GPA continued to rise and their hard work paid off with an average chapter GPA above both all women’s and all sorority GPA.

The University of Wyoming continues to change and grow. A major change was the completion of the Gateway Center. Along with the continued work on the gym on campus, Half Acre, that should be completed during 2015. The changes occurring at the University of Wyoming go beyond new and renovated buildings. The University began implementing the plus/minus system. With this new grading policy came supporting and opposing arguments. The chapter house has also seen changes including, new beds, new furniture, new light fixtures, and new wall paper and paint. The physical changing to the house and the growing numbers have not changed the overall nature of Gamma Omicron. It continues to be a positive and supportive chapter. The women of the chapter remain loyal to one another and to the fraternity as a whole.

The Chapter of Gamma Omicron holds chapter meetings in the Chapter Room, located in the basement of the house. This is a chapter owned facility. The Gamma Omicron chapter has the privilege of owning a house that provides the opportunity for the chapter members to live together. The Kappa Kappa Gamma house for the chapter of Gamma Omicron has only been relocated once in the mid-1900s. It was moved from Grand Ave. to its current location on Sorority Row.


Highlights of 2015[edit]

The first major event of 2015 was the appointment of a new president, Jessica Johnson. Along with the appointment of the new president the Gamma Omicron chapter also transitioned several women into a variety of officer positions. Briana Long, Kellsey Hansen, and Elizabeth Cardenas all were elected to hold Panhellenic positions.

With spring came informal spring recruitment. The women of Gamma Omicron welcomed two new initiates, after the completion of their new member period. After a successful informal spring recruitment the chapter began planning for fall formal recruitment. After a stressful and exiting work week lead by the membership chairman Casandra Herndon and her assistant Yonne Helene the women of Gamma Omicron were well prepared for requirement. The new members were welcomed to Kappa Kappa Gamma with a welcome to the jungle themed bid day. After a thorough new member period and the guidance of the New Member Chairman, Savanah Moyte, 27 new members initiated. Initiation took place on November 14, with the guidance of the Marshel Christine Bulgrin. With the new initiates the chapter has a total of 83 initiated members.

Gamma Omicron chapter received an award at the annual Greek Awards. Janet Anderson received an award for her dedication as an advisor for Gamma Omicron. Gamma Omicron also received the honor of being the highest raising sorority for Relay for Life

A focus of Gamma Omicron in the 2015 year has been academics. With the help of the vice president of academic excellence, Ciera Mendicino, the ladies of Gamma Omicron's GPA continued to rise and their hard work paid off with an average chapter GPA above both all women’s and all Fraternity and Sorority GPAs both semesters. Describe the recent changes on your campus and describe the overall nature of your chapter.

The University of Wyoming continues to change and grow. A major change was the completion of the Half Acre gym. The Gamma Omicron chapter house has also seen some changes over the year including, new carpet in the formal living room and game room. The physical changing to the house and the growing number of members have not changed the overall nature of Gamma Omicron. It continues to be a positive and supportive chapter, with a focus on sisterhood.

Chapter Philanthropy:

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

Gamma Omicron was the highest raising sorority for Relay for Life. The chapter continues to raise money for Kappa Kappa Gamma's national philanthropy, Reading is fundamental, the Kappa foundation and Gamma Omicrons local philanthropy The Safe Project. Through events such as the Mr. Wyoming Pageant and a joint philanthropy event with Sigma Phi Epsilon Kappa’s Sigepic tailgate. Gamma Omicron also participated in Safe Treat, a local safe trick or treat option for children on campus. Helped at the local soup kitchen and was part of the big Event, a city community service event. Gamma Omicron's philanthropic success was headed by the philanthropy chairman Amanda Sisco.

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

Gamma Omicron choose to donate money to the Safe Project because their mission is to advocate for and empower survivors of stalking, intimate partner, family and sexual violence. Their education and awareness efforts are focused on prevention and improved community response. The women of Gamma Omicron believe that it is important to empower those who feel unsafe. Gamma Omicron also enjoys helping with the Big Event (a community wide service event.) because we believe that the community has supported us and given us so much that it is important to give back.

Highlights of 2016[edit]

Gamma Omicron Chapter had another successful year at the University of Wyoming. The chapter was led by President Olivia Haugh who led us to accomplish many important things on campus and in the community. She had a strong chapter council behind her who worked very hard for the betterment of our chapter.

The spring semester brought the informal recruitment period. The women of Gamma Omicron welcomed five new initiates, after the completion of their new member period. The membership chairman Madison Watson turned her attention to formal recruitment in the fall after the successful completion of spring recruitment. Madison Watson and her assistant Taylor Chaulk prepared the chapter well for recruitment with a focused and rigorous work week. The new members were welcomed to Kappa Kappa Gamma with a Paradise themed bid day. After a thorough new member period and the guidance of the New Member Chairman, Cassie Herndon, 31 new members were initiated. Initiation took place on October 22, with the guidance of the Marshal Amanda Sisco. The chapter total is 81 with the addition of another group of initiates.

A few of our honors and awards from the previous year include the convention award for risk management and Our Fraternity and Sorority Life awarded one of our own Julianna Emmet as New Member of the Year.

The Chapter put on a few major philanthropy events over the last year as well as joined in on many smaller events. The Mr. Wyoming competition was held in the spring and we donated all the money raised from this event to the Albany County Safe Project. In the spring the chapter also participated in Relay for life, the Jackalope Jump which consisted of jumping in a freezing cold pond to raise awareness for the Special Olympics and lastly, the chapter partnered with the Wyoming Honors Organization to set up an Easter egg hunt for children. In the fall we had a successful Chili Con Kappa event where we received many book donations and money to pass on to Reading is Fundamental. We also helped with Safe Treat on campus and the Big Event which was a campus wide community service project. All of these events combined helped our Philanthropy Chairman reach her goal of involvement in community events and getting us out on campus.

Our wonderful event chairmen continued our traditional Sapphire Ball in the Spring and Barn Dance in the fall. These events are always fun and are a great opportunity for all of us to enjoy ourselves.

Our chapter goals focused on holding sisters accountable and getting everyone involved. Our education chairman aimed to create fun and educational programs for the chapter, she organized an etiquette dinner and worked to improve communication with alumnae and officers for events such as founder's day dinner. Our house chairman focused on improving the craft room in the house.

The University of Wyoming welcomed its first female President Laurie Nichols who is a wonderful leader and very committed to making the University a top rate program with an open environment to learn. Unfortunately, the University is currently experiencing a budget crisis which is effecting degree programs and staff. The students and facility are coming together to try to combat the crisis and come up with new ways to make the University more efficient and to save money where we can. However, Gamma Omicron is thriving and continues to uphold the highest standards. The women have a firm understanding of sisterhood and exemplify strong morals in their everyday lives.

Gamma Omicron was the highest raising sorority for Relay for Life. The chapter continues to raise money for Kappa Kappa Gamma's national philanthropy, Reading is fundamental, the Kappa foundation and Gamma Omicrons local philanthropy The Safe Project. Through events such as the Mr. Wyoming Pageant and a joint philanthropy event with Sigma Phi Epsilon Kappa’s Sigepic tailgate. Gamma Omicron also participated in Safe Treat, a local safe trick or treat option for children on campus. Helped at the local soup kitchen and was part of the big Event, a city community service event. Gamma Omicron's philanthropic success was headed by the philanthropy chairman Amanda Sisco.

Gamma Omicron choose to donate money to the Safe Project because their mission is to advocate for and empower survivors of stalking, intimate partner, family and sexual violence. Their education and awareness efforts are focused on prevention and improved community response. The women of Gamma Omicron believe that it is important to empower those who feel unsafe. Gamma Omicron also enjoys helping with the Big Event (a community wide service event.) because we believe that the community has supported us and given us so much that it is important to give back.

Highlights of 2017[edit]

Gamma Omicron started off the year with the appointment of the new chapter president, Savanah Richter. She accomplished many significant things within the chapter, including bringing the LeadToday workshop to the chapter. This amazing opportunity was well received by the chapter and helped to better the chapter by demonstrating how important it is to have sisterhood.

The start of the spring semester meant the informal recruitment period had begun. Gamma Omicron welcomed six new initiates, after the completion of their new member period. The membership chairman, Nikki Perkins, began planning formal recruitment in the fall after the successful spring recruitment. Nikki Perkins and her assistant Jordan Hardman prepared the chapter for a successful recruitment with a work week that was fun and focused. The new members were welcomed to Kappa Kappa Gamma with an 80’s themed bid day. After the new member period and with the guidance of the New Member Chairman, Katie Hasse, 34 new members were initiated. Initiation took place on November 11, with the help of the Marshal, Chantelle Runion. The chapter total is 87 with this addition of initiates.

Gamma Omicron put on several major philanthropy events over the past year as well as joined in on many smaller events. The Mr. Wyoming competition was held in the spring and all the money raised was to the Albany County Safe Project. In the spring, the chapter also participated in Relay for life and partnered with the Wyoming Honors Organization to set up an Easter egg hunt for children. In the fall, we had a successful Kappa Kookout event where we received many book donations and money to pass on to Reading is Fundamental. We also helped with Safe Treat on campus and the Big Event which was a campus wide community service project. All of these events combined helped our Philanthropy Chairman, Moriah Duncan, reach her goal of involvement in community events and getting us out on campus.

Since it was Gamma Omicrons 90th anniversary, the chapter decided to host an event and invite the alumni from our chapter to attend. This large event occurred in the fall during the homecoming event at the university. Hundreds of alumni from all over the country came to support our chapter. We raised money for the new renovations taking place, in order to keep the house functioning. The entire chapter enjoyed this event because it brought active members and alumni together. Since it was such a big event, the entire chapter was to be involved to make it a success.

Our Event chairmen, Taylor Oates, continued our traditional Sapphire Ball in the Spring and Barn Dance in the fall. These events are a fun way to get to know our sisters and are a great opportunity for all of us to enjoy ourselves.

Gamma Omicron continues to raise money for Kappa Kappa Gamma's national philanthropy, Reading is Fundamental, the Kappa foundation and our local philanthropy, The Safe Project. Through events such as the Mr. Wyoming Pageant and the Kappa Kookout. Gamma Omicron also participated in Safe Treat, a local, safe trick or treating option for small children on campus. Participated in the Big Event, a city community service event.

Gamma Omicron choose to donate money to the Safe Project because their mission is to advocate for and empower survivors of stalking, intimate partner, family and sexual violence. Their education and awareness efforts are focused on prevention and improved community response. The women of Gamma Omicron believe that it is important to empower those who feel unsafe. Gamma Omicron also enjoys helping with the Big Event (a community wide service event.) because we believe that the community has supported us and given us so much that it is important to give back.

Highlights of 2018[edit]

2018 started off with the installation of our new chapter officers. Shelby Bell finished up her term as ASUW Liaison and Savannah Rutsch was elected as the Panhellenic Vice President of Programming. Spring Recruitment brought us eight new members. In April, Gamma Omicron hosted its 14th annual Mr. Wyoming spring philanthropy. One of our sisters was selected as the Emerging Leader of the Year at the Fraternity and Sorority Life Awards. Gamma Omicron also won Sigma Chi Derby Days this year.

The first large event after returning from summer was Fall Recruitment where the chapter welcomed 35 new members. We also tried a new Fall philanthropy: Kappa Karnival where we had carnival games, snacks and raffles.

Our campus welcomed a new fraternity, Alpha Sigma Phi, and a new sorority, Alpha Phi, will come to campus in the next year. Fraternity and Sorority Life has been working hard to increase the number of Greek Life members. The old Pi Beta Phi chapter house is also being remodeled in order to be used by an active fraternity or sorority.

Gamma Omicron supports the Albany County Safe Project as its philanthropy. We believe supporting this organization is a great opportunity.


Highlights of 2019[edit]

2019 started with installation of new chapter officers and the election of Shelby Bell as the Panhellenic Vice President of Standards. In February over 20 women participated in the Jackalope Jump benefitting Special Olympics. In one week we raised $3000 and our team won the award for the most money raised by a group at the event. During spring recruitment we recruited four new members and in April we initiated five women. In the beginning of April we participated in Greek Week and won two events and placed third overall. Also in April we held a very successful Mr. Wyoming event, raising $6656, the most we've raised in several years. In May we had nine seniors become alumnae.

Our chapter was very successful in fall recruitment, welcoming 32 new members. In October we celebrated Wyoming's Homecoming and participated in Homecoming Sing and the campus parade. We welcomed our alumnae to our annual Alumnae Chili event and were able to give house tours. At the end of October we held our first Wingin' It with Kappa event and raised $3347. Our philanthropy chairman, Katie Kelley, was incredibly successful in 2019.

Gamma Omicron supports the Albany County Safe Project because their mission is to advocate for and empower survivors of stalking, intimate partner, family and sexual violence. This year we were also able to participate in their Take Back the Night event. Safe Project has made a huge difference in our community and we feel lucky to have been able to support them for multiple years.

Highlights of 2020[edit]

In the spring our chapter had many things planned that were affected by COVID. We planned on having formal, Mr. Wyoming (our philanthropy event), initiation, and many more events. Everything got cancelled when we all went home for spring break and never returned until the fall. However before we went home for spring break we participated in Panhellenic book club and a social with SigEp on March 7th. In spring 2020 we were supposed to have Greek Week but it sadly got cancelled. We still received the Outstanding Community Service award for book buddies, Outstanding Philanthropic endeavor award for Mr.Wyoming, and the Impact award for Mr.Wyoming. Upon the return of our members in the fall our Chapter Council had to figure out how to hold safe events and meetings due to COVID. We settled on having meetings on Zoom and having hybrid committees and events. Our work week was held virtually from August 16th-21st on Zoom. This was a big change from normal where we are normally in person. We also practiced what recruitment would look like if it was held virtually. Our recruitment was held virtually after many changes to the original hybrid in person plan. Recruitment was held on September 10th-13th. We utilized break rooms to have one on one conversations with PNM’s. We had bid day on September 14th which was held virtually on Zoom. We once again utilized break rooms for active members to meet the new members. Formal Pledging was held on September 21st on Zoom. Just like in the spring our members participated in Panhellenic Book Club. Our chapter decided to do a philanthropic t-shirt drive for Albany County SAFE project. Big-Little Reveal was on October 20th for our new members. We had Initiation from November 4th - 7th. All of our Initiation events were held on Zoom.

Our chapter supports our Fraternity philanthropy, Reading is Fundamental. We also support our local philanthropy, Albany County SAFE project. We also do book buddies with our local schools. We love working with Albany County SAFE project because they have a great message. They help with domestic violence, stalking, sexual assault, etc. We also love participating in book buddies with our local schools because it involves our chapter with more reading events.

During work week we spent half a day talking about diversity, equity, and inclusion. We had a presentation and discussion about what diversity, equity, and inclusion are. We talked about how we would include and be conscious of how to include DEI in recruitment and other chapter events.

Our chapter celebrated Kappa’s 150th anniversary with the Founder’s Day Ceremony. We also watched the Facebook live celebration that was held by the Fraternity. Our kitchen also made special blue cupcakes to celebrate the 150 years!

Highlights of 2021[edit]

For the 2021-year Gamma Omicron accomplished some wonderful things. In the year of 2021, we welcomed 21 new members into our chapter. We also won our local Derby Days competition and we won FSL feud for our Greek Week competition! We also had at least two members on our Panhellenic Council as well as four members who were assigned as Recruitment Counselors in 2021. We also had one member on our Fraternal Standards Board as well as two members who were in the Mortar Board. One of the goals we had in 2021 was to improve our sisterhood even though we weren’t always in the same place due to covid-19 which is something we did accomplish. We held our first Barn Dance and Senior Activity since covid began and both went really well. We held many fun socials such as our pumpkin carving sisterhood or the cookie decorating. Our FSL community also held our annual Jingle Mingle event in-person since covid began as well.

We support the Albany County Safe Project as our local philanthropy because our chapter really appreciates the help they give the community and how they help people in general. We also really think that helping people in need is extremely important and having the resources they provide is super important especially since they help support people on the University of Wyoming Campus as well. We also raised/donated $10,350.23 for the Albany County Safe Project in 2021. We also support our local Veterans community. We support them because we want them to know that they are loved and appreciated, and that people do care about/for them. Gamma Omicron supported them by making them holiday cards for them, Christmas/winter holiday, valentines, Halloween, etc. We also had a totally of 704 hours of service hours for a variety of local philanthropies that members in our chapter completed.

This year we raised $4,228.49 for our Kappa philanthropy by hosting our Kappa Cookout event. We also did some mental health awareness tabling. For this we tabled and talked to community members about mental health and asked them to sign a pledge to support mental health. We also had information about mental health statistics, and we gave out stickers that said “mental health matters”.

We added a DEI officer in the fall of 2021. We also really talked about and discussed DEI during our work week. We also had a Bias training in the spring of 2021.

In the 2021-year Covid-19 changed a lot of our chapter functions. At the start of 2021 we held almost every single event online. We changed all of our meetings to be held on zoom and practically all paperwork that had been done by hand on paper was now done online. We held zoom ritual reviews where we learned our ritual and chaotically sung over zoom. We also held virtual initiations that looked very different than what we do in person but that still went well. Due to having Chapter meetings online we started having themed meeting where we would dress up as a specific theme. Those were really fun. We also held a few socials online with other chapters as well as a few online sisterhoods.

As we transitioned into the fall school semester we have transitioned back into in-person meetings, ritual reviews, initiation, fundraisers, and events while still taking precautions against Covid-19, such as mask-wearing and social distancing, and making online options for members who are sick. This fall specifically we were able to do move-in in-person.

Highlights of 2022[edit]

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!

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